October 2019

Fixings: Viewpoint
system design and supply compared to cladding
is rising. While traditional face fixing systems
come in at around £25-£30 per square metre,
this figure rises to approximately £65-£75 for a
mechanical secret fixing system. These days, top
quality secret fix systems account for roughly
50% of the total façade system cost.
This is no temporary trend – more sophisticated,
safe buildings with higher price tags per
apartment require smooth lines and a clean
façade appearance, without visible fixings.
Hence, we’re increasingly seeing the cost of
secret fix systems and their contribution coming
under scrutiny.
It’s good to talk
In our experience, with better planning and
consultation across the supply chain (with
specifiers, contractors and architects) significant
savings can be achieved without compromising
the final aesthetic of a building.
Often, we find that it’s about understanding what
the architect wants to achieve – and being able
to suggest carefully considered, credible
alternatives using different fixings systems or
“Top quality secret fix
systems account for
roughly 50% of the total
façade system cost”
even new facade materials to achieve the same
look.
On a recent housing project, we were able to
reduce the total facade cost by more that 10% by
working consultatively with the architect to devise
an alternative solution. This achieved the same
high quality GRC finish but at a much lower cost.
Our design team calculated that by using a
thinner, lighter make of GRC than originally
specified, we could employ a different fixing
substrate which in turn enabled us to erect larger
single pieces, reducing the need for cutting and
thus minimising waste. This process actually
delivered a better looking solution for the project
at a lower price – that’s the real advantage of
undertaking an analysis of the proposed fixing
system before work commences on-site.
It’s often easy to just get on with the job – but
we are finding that this more consultative
approach adds value to relationships with
contractors and specifiers – and keeps the
project within budget.
Fixing trends
Looking ahead, we’re seeing more European
(most notably Turkish) manufacturers knocking
on the UK market’s doors, which we see as a
positive sign. This gives contractors more choice
of product, without compromising on performance
or safety.
Another interesting trend within the fixings arena
is the more joined up approach to design and
installation. The wrapping of fixing system design
and engineering with the supply is on the
increase as a package. This shows an industry
that is taking responsibility and placing
responsibility for fixing systems with one provider
– not a disparate group of businesses.
Fixings and bracketry is a remarkably dynamic
part of the facade market right now that is going
through fundamental changes. Overlooking this
largely hidden, but crucial element of building
design could cost you dearly.
“It’s often easy to just get on with the job – but we
are finding that this more consultative approach
adds value to relationships with contractors and
specifiers – and keeps the project within budget”
Contact Pura Facades
0203 269 2052
www.purafacades.co.uk
72 TC OCTOBER 2019