Britmet Lightweight Roofing: Slate 2000 and BritFrame in Social Housing Case Study

This case study highlights the successful implementation of Britmet’s flat-to-pitch conversion system, BritFrame, and lightweight metal roof tile, Slate 2000. The project, carried out by Jennings Roofing encompassed a total area of 500 square meters and aimed to improve the infrastructure of the existing roof. This case study examines the benefits, challenges, and outcomes of utilising Slate 2000. This case study highlights the successful implementation of Britmet's Slate 2000 roofing system and Britframe structural solution in a social housing project. The client, a new customer of Britmet, discovered the systems at the UK Construction Week (UKCW) exhibition. Impressed by the innovative design and features, the client expressed interest in utilising Britframe for a flat-to-pitch conversion project in their social housing development. 

The client is a housing association responsible for managing and maintaining a portfolio of social housing properties. They were seeking an effective solution to address various issues with one of their buildings, including an ageing roof with multiple repairs, inadequate insulation, and inefficient rainwater management. The objective was to enhance the building's aesthetics, improve water tightness, increase energy efficiency, and minimize future maintenance requirements. The initial meeting between the client and Britmet took place at the UKCW exhibition, where the client became acquainted with Britframe, a lightweight and versatile structural solution. 

Intrigued by its potential, the client arranged for an on-site visit to further assess the feasibility of utilising the Britframe and Slate 2000 roofing system for their project.

Slate 2000 is a durable and aesthetically pleasing lightweight roofing material that offers long-term performance and weather resistance. It's stylish design and robust properties make it an ideal choice for enhancing the visual appeal and durability of roofs and cladding. 

During the initial site visit, Britmet's team evaluated the existing roof condition, rainwater management system, and insulation levels. After careful assessment, they provided the client with a budget price estimate for the proposed project. The estimate included the cost of materials, labour, and necessary ancillary items. 

To streamline the project, the client signed a Project Assist agreement with Britmet. This allowed Britmet to obtain planning drawings and submit the necessary applications on behalf of the client. Additionally, Britmet provided structural calculations, design drawings, and rainwater calculations to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and best practices. The main objective of the project was to convert the existing flat roof to a pitched roof using Britframe and install Britmet's Slate 2000 roofing system. This conversion offered numerous advantages, including improved water tightness, increased insulation, and resolved rainwater management issues. Notably, the internal gutters, which had caused maintenance problems, were relocated externally as part of the new design.

Beyond functionality, the new roofing system and structural solution significantly enhanced the building's aesthetic appeal. The modern design of Britframe, combined with the stylish appearance of Slate 2000, seamlessly integrated the property with its surroundings. The improved visual aesthetics added value to the social housing development. One of the key benefits of choosing Britmet's Slate 2000 and Britframe was the assurance of minimal maintenance requirements. Unlike the previous roof covering, which had undergone numerous repairs and reached the end of its life, the new system was designed to be durable and long-lasting. This eliminated the need for ongoing maintenance and reduced future costs for the housing association.

Through the adoption of Britmet's Slate 2000 roofing system and Britframe structural solution, the social housing project achieved its objectives of enhanced aesthetics, improved water tightness, increased insulation, and efficient rainwater management. The collaboration between the client and Britmet, from the initial meeting at UKCW to the successful implementation of the project, demonstrated the value of innovative roofing and structural solutions in the social housing sector.