Fire Proofing Ltd was contacted by a client representing the building to upgrade its external timber cladding to BS EN 13501-1 Class B-s2,d0.
01 · The reason for treatment
Supporting apartment sales and mortgage applications
Apartment owners were experiencing difficulties selling their properties because potential buyers could not obtain mortgage approval with the existing cladding information.
The client therefore needed the building’s external timber cladding upgraded to Class B-s2,d0 with supporting treatment documentation.
02 · Construction check
Confirming the construction behind the cladding
Before treatment could be arranged, we needed to establish whether intumescent fire barriers had been installed behind the timber cladding during construction.
The client organised an inspection in which sections of the cladding were removed. This confirmed that the required barriers were present, allowing the external treatment programme to proceed.
03 · High-level access
Planning access to the complete building
The timber cladding extended to a height of approximately 15 metres, so safe access was an important part of the project.
A cherry picker was hired and delivered to the site. With IPAF 3a and 3b qualifications, we were able to operate the access equipment and complete the high-level treatment without requiring a separate access contractor.
04 · Resident coordination
Coordinating the work with residents
Residents were advised before treatment began so the external areas could be kept clear.
Cars were moved away from the building, and residents remained inside while the treatment was applied around their balconies. This protected people, vehicles and nearby property while allowing each section of cladding to be reached safely.
05 · Professional application
Applying the fire-retardant treatment
We worked progressively around the building, using the cherry picker and professional extension poles to apply the treatment across the external timber cladding.
The access equipment made it possible to reach the upper sections, balcony areas and other parts of the façade while maintaining consistent application.
06 · Documentation
Class B-s2,d0 treatment documentation
The completed timber treatment was documented to BS EN 13501-1 Class B-s2,d0.
The treatment certificate recorded:
- The building and external timber cladding treated
- The treatment product used
- The completed Class B-s2,d0 treatment
- The date of treatment
- Maintenance and retreatment information
07 · Occupied building
A coordinated solution for an occupied building
This project required more than applying a fire-retardant product. The construction behind the cladding first had to be confirmed, specialist high-level access arranged and the work coordinated around residents, vehicles and private balconies.
Careful preparation allowed the external timber cladding to be treated efficiently while the building remained occupied.