Keyfix, the latest innovative new Keystone Group business, is solving the non-combustible challenge with its unique range of external cavity wall solutions. Developed in response to the increasing requirement for non-combustible materials for buildings over 18 metres, the A1 fire-rated components are fully compliant to Building Regulations Approved Document B (ADB).
Following incidents involving the spread of fire within external cavities on tall buildings, the updated Building Regulations prohibit the use of combustible materials within certain external cavities of buildings over 18m in height. To address this, Keyfix consulted and worked with industry leaders to develop a unique non-combustible system which meets the needs of regulators, insurers, warranty providers, developers and installers.
Reflecting the system’s superior design and performance credentials, it is listed on theNHBC ‘Accepts list’, and is approved by both Premier Guarantee and LABC following their comprehensive review of innovative products and systems.
The Keyfix range of ADB (Approved Document B) compliant solutions includes aNon-combustible Cavity Tray (NCCT) and a Non-combustible Cavity Tray Lintel (NCCTL). The range is completed with a Non-combustible Retaining Disc (NCRD) which works with all standard Type 1 masonry to masonry wall ties, Non-Combustible Weep Vents and a Non-Combustible Damp Proof Course (NCDPC).
The innovative Keyfix Non-combustible Cavity Tray and Non-combustible Cavity Tray Lintel products offer a practical solution to provide watertight and non-combustible Damp Proof Course (DPC) protection over lintels, masonry supports, soffit systems and other elements in the cavity such as fire barriers.
Manufactured using Class A1 non-combustible stainless steel, the KeyfixNon-combustible Cavity Tray ( NCCT) is a ‘Fix & Forget’ solution, featuring a self-supporting single-piece tray that clips together for fast and easy installation. No additional fixings, sealants or onsite fabrication are required by the installer; therefore installation of the trays will not impede the speed of bricklaying when compared to traditional DPC. Completely self-supporting, the Keyfix NCCT system is installed in the outer leaf with no connection with the inner skin and therefore does not create a thermal bridge and eliminates all differential movement issues.
The system has been developed to meet the practical needs of brickwork contractors and requires no additional specialist skills on-site. The component range also includes the Keyfix Non-combustible Retaining Disc (NCRD) which has been designed to retain insulation on all Type 1 masonry to masonry wall ties and has a unique patented spring loaded action, which clamps the stainless steel insulation retaining disc to the main body of the wall tie.
Commenting on the range of compliant solutions, John Duffin, Managing Director of Keyfix said, “With Keyfix marking its first year in business, we have successfully synergised the Keystone Group’s expertise in lintels and masonry support by filling the gap to provide the complete, one-stop solution for the external cavity. Our solution has been very well received by installers and main contractors and is widely recognised as the easiest to use and best customer service option on the market.”
Construction product manufacturer Keystone Group specialises in the design and manufacture of bespoke structural steel support solutions and masonry support systems, and is the UK and Ireland’s market leader in steel lintels. The Keystone Group continually sets the standard by developing ground-breaking innovations in response to market demand alongside troubleshooting issues the construction industry faces.
For more information about the Keyfix range of non-combustible solutions download the brochure, visit www.keyfix.com or for technical support call 028 8676 7508 or email info@keyfix.com
