Sika secret fix system is used for curved facade

An adhesive fix system from Sika has been specified to hold in place rainscreen cladding on the exterior of accommodation and a learning centre at the University of East Anglia (UEA).

Designed for international students at the University, LSI Architects wanted to create a modern structure that would reflect the global character of its users, and settled upon a curved form based on a Chinese lantern.

The curves and brightly coloured panels of the frontage of the building were of key importance in achieving the unique effect.

A combination of Trespa Meteon HPL and cement based Petrarch cladding panels were selected for their versatility and colour.

To provide a seamless fix of the Petrarch cladding, congruent with the concrete finishes elsewhere on the UEA campus, Sika's secret fix Sikatack Panel Adhesive was specified.

Utilising elastic bonding technology, Sikatack Panel Adhesive requires no mechanical parts for installation.

This allows for the fixing of panels without unsightly bolts or fittings visible on the exterior, creating a smooth and flowing appearance to buildings and greatly enhanced aesthetic appeal.

The high strength adhesive system is more cost effective and easier to use than secret mechanical fix methods and also prevents cold bridging.

Suitable for composites, ceramics, laminates and cement based cladding, the extraordinarily versatile adhesive can also be used on a range of metals and powder coated substrates.

At the UEA project, the Sikatack Panel Adhesive was used in conjunction with a cladding support system from Eurofox Engineering.

A vertically orientated bracket and rail system, the company's MTK system is specifically designed for structurally bonded secret fix installations.

Sikatack Panel Adhesive makes for hassle free installation of cladding.

Following the cleaning of surfaces, a primer was applied to the points of contact between the Petrarch panels and the Eurofox Engineering aluminium rails.

An extremely strong Sika Fixing Tape was then applied to hold the panels in place temporarily and Sikatack Panel Adhesive applied.

Combined, the Sikatack Panel Adhesive and Eurofox Engineering system proved an effective and highly workable method of installation.

Together they offer a long lasting means of securing rainscreen cladding that is capable of bearing high load weights and stresses.

Usable on a wide range of cladding materials, both products have achieved BBA (British Board of Agrement) certification.

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