AluK systems specified for Cardiff High School extension

Specified by Stride Treglown, in collaboration with Kier Group and Nolan Commercial, AluK (GB) doors, windows and curtain walling systems have been supplied for the extension of the Cardiff High School in Wales. Cardiff High School is a comprehensive school in the Cyncoed area of Cardiff two miles from the city centre. To increase its capacity to an Eighth Form entry plus Sixth Form high school, a large double storey extension has been built, including new main entrance, reception and waiting areas, administrative office, music, drama and art classrooms and a junior hall.

The main building of the school, built around 1966, is typical of the 60’s/70’s modern architectural style with its facade dominated by curtain walling and red cladding panels. The architectural philosophy of the extension was to deliver a new and fresh identity while creating a balance in the use of both the existing materials and new materials to complement the existing main facade.

AluK’s SL52 Curtain Walling System was supplied for the main facades. This system enables specifiers to create impressive continual expanses of glass that not only enhance the aesthetics of a building but also provide the functionality and performance required to meet and exceed current standards.

Also specified were the GT55 TB Door System and the 58BW ST Window System with opening vents. These two systems were incorporated in the curtain walling systems for the main facades which have been treated with larger windows and colourful cladding panels to invoke the new identity, as well as complement the existing building in a contrasting way. These two AluK systems were also used as stand alone for the remaining elevations.

The GT55 TB Door System was used for its thermal attributes: it is one of the most robust thermally broken commercial door systems available on the market. The 58BW ST Window System was specified for its U-value performance.

Russell Yates, Managing Director, AluK comments: “Our range of building solutions is continually being developed to improve thermal performance and already exceeds the requirements set by the UK government. Our thermal break profiles are designed to offer the ultimate performance and structural integrity. Through the use of innovative design, we have reduced U-values significantly, ensuring minimal heat loss and improving energy efficiency”