Brick cladding

Application

The system is suitable for new commercial, industrial and domestic building and Novabrik has found particular favour for multi-dwelling apartment-type applications. In this situation, the speed of installation in all weather conditions and the elimination of wet trades on site have resulted in significantly quicker build time and earlier occupancy. Novabrik is equally suited to refurbishment projects. Out-dated structures can be brought up to current standards of weather-resistance with the introduction of a Novabrik outer leaf. This, together with the appropriate insulation materials can extend the working life of the building and transform its aesthetic appearance. A building clad in Novabrik will resemble a new building. Openings are retained and, as a Novabrik skin adds only 65mm to the wall thickness, the footprint of the building is increased by a minimal amount so existing eaves projections can be maintained.

Case Study

Northern Ireland-based contractor; McCavana Developments recently completed a three-storey apartment block in Newtownabbey, near Belfast using the system. McCavana is a recognised timber frame specialist and was quick to see the benefits of the system for their business. The company was able to use its own joinery craftsmen who were given basic training by the manufacturer, and was able to complete the project four weeks in advance of the anticipated completion schedule. Installation of Novabrik meant that the external leaf was taken off the critical path and follow-on trades were able to progress without disruption. A three person team fixed 268m2 over a two week period with installation rates averaging at 11–13m2 per working day, double that of conventional brickwork.

The Novabrik system was developed in Canada by Alba Stone Products of Montreal as a result of over five years of research and development. Novabrik International Inc was created in 1999 and is the patent holder and licensee for Novabrik. Acheson & Glover has manufacturing exclusivity for the whole of the UK.