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Product category: Windows - Aluminium and Steel
News Release from: Steel Window Association | Subject: Refurbish and convert the BBC's premises
Edited by the Buildingtalk Editorial Team on 12 April 2006

SWA member views the wider picture

Member of the Steel Window Association involved in contract to refurbish and convert the BBC's premises in Central London.

Management techniques have proved just as vital as technical expertise to a member of the Steel Window Association involved in a contract to refurbish and convert the BBC's premises in Central London Steel Window Service began work on the BBC's New Broadcasting House Project - the creation of a new state-of-the-art broadcast centre for BBC in the heart of the capital, in March 2004

They worked as a package contractor for the construction company, Bovis Lend Lease, on the two current sections of the development: the refurbishment of the original Broadcasting House and of Western House (home of Radio 2 and 6 Music).

The metal window specialist's responsibilities include carrying out stripping and polishing as well as the easing and adjustment of more than 500 steel casement windows in the famous radio centre.

While the work on Broadcasting House is valued at £500 K, Steel Window Service's contract for Western House tops the £1million mark with extensive replica refurbishment being involved.

Mr Rob Flemming who has worked on Bovis Lend Lease's project team for both buildings comments: "This is not a straightforward refurbishment - in fact it is a complex job and Steel Window Services has been coping well with the work so far".

"I am now looking after Western House where the company is providing a package for window replacement".

"There also have to be some fire rated units installed because the replacement windows in the central lightwell are adjacent to an escape staircase".

"This has required a half hour fire rating".

While a large number of the windows in Broadcasting House could be serviced in-situ, others have had to be removed to the firm's Finsbury Park premises for the repair of corroded sections and the rectification of ironmongery defects.

Replacement of the glazing and redecoration was necessary in most cases while Steel Window Service also uprated the energy efficiency of the fenestration employing its silicone draught-stripping system.

While some windows showed only limited amounts of corrosion requiring repair, some were so badly corroded that they had to be replaced.

Here the experience of SWA members in undertaking 'Replica Refurbishment' projects came to the fore as the contractor produced new units, paying special attention to such details as matching the glazing bars and sightlines.

This was done under the supervision of English Heritage and in accordance with the building's listed status.

The contract for Western House is primarily concerned with replacing 189 Universal Suite section steel windows employing a new glazing system.

Following numerous design meetings Steel Window Service and its clients arrived at a solution featuring a specially adapted W40 marginal pane style with a black polyester powder coat finish.

These new windows not only achieve very good levels of acoustic and thermal insulation but will also offer enhanced blast resistance.

The New Broadcasting House Project is the BBC's largest capital project ever.

When complete in 2010 it will create a new home for BBC Radio and Music, BBC News and BBC World Service, and will house the largest live newsroom in the world.

For a list of members and Specifier's Guide to Steel Windows contact the SWA.

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