Riser Housings at the University of Gloucestershire: A Bespoke Roofing Solution
Project Overview
Denton-Powell proudly delivered a series of bespoke riser housings for a major new campus development at the University of Gloucestershire. This Tier 1 project, led by Morgan Sindall Group PLC, demonstrates our ability to design and manufacture complex rooftop systems that meet demanding structural, environmental, and logistical requirements.
A total of nine riser housings, all varying in size, were installed as part of a 10-week programme, completed in August 2024.
Services Provided by Denton-Powell
Denton-Powell delivered bespoke riser housings featuring a custom connection system to the existing up-stands. This included drilling and installing 500mm resin anchors, along with ballast weights positioned at each corner for added stability. The solution also incorporated a bespoke steel subframe, finished with pow-der-coated aluminium panelling, all fully compliant with required fire-rated specifications.
What Are Riser Housings?
Risers are essential components within modern building infrastructure, enabling services to pass vertically and horizontally through a structure.
These bespoke riser housings were designed to:
- Allow safe and efficient service penetration through the roof
- Maintain a fully weatherproof, insulated, and soundproofed environment
- Integrate seamlessly with the existing roof structure
Design & Construction Approach
Each riser housing was built using a highly engineered, multi-stage process:
- Brick-built upstands formed the base
- Ring beams were securely bolted into position
- Structural frames were constructed using steel
- Finished with powder-coated aluminium cladding
Despite an overall weight of approximately 3 tonnes, additional plate ballast was incorporated to ensure stability against gale-force winds.
Key Features of the System
Our heavy-duty rooftop weathering units are designed for performance, durability, and flexibility:
Robust Structural Integrity
- Steel frame securely fixed to roof structure
- Engineered to withstand extreme weather conditions
High-Performance Insulation
- 60mm PIR insulated aluminium panels
- Excellent thermal efficiency and environmental protection
Custom-Built Design
- Fully bespoke sizing to meet project requirements
- Adaptable to any setting
Advanced Waterproofing
- Integrated flashings and drip edges
Long-term protection against water ingress
Our riser housing systems are engineered to perform in even the most demanding environments.
Versatile Components
Options include:
- Louvred panels
- Mesh screens
- Access doors
Materials Used
- Powder-coated aluminium panelling
- Recticel 60mm PIR insulation
- Primed and painted structural steel framework
All materials were selected to meet strict fire-rated specifications and long-term durability standards.
Challenges & Solutions
This project presented several technical and logistical challenges. Despite these challenges, Denton-Powell successfully delivered a fully compliant, high-performance solution.
Site & Structural Challenges
- Refurbishment of an existing building
- Unknown conditions uncovered during construction
- Limited roof load capacity
Installation Constraints
- Restricted crane access and availability
- Requirement for self-erecting cranes due to reach limitations
- Transportation challenges from fully assembled framework sections
Engineering Considerations
- Wind loading requirements addressed through ballast weighting
- Careful material movement due to reduced loading thresholds
- Complex coordination with other trades during phased construction
Despite the constraints and complexities from the existing structures, this was a challenging project from the outset, but through careful planning and teamwork, it ultimately became a success we can all be proud of.
Joe Champion, Director, Denton-Powell Ltd
Innovation & Recognition
This project reflects Denton-Powell’s commitment to innovation and excellence, contributing toward recognition in industry innovation awards and reinforcing our reputation for delivering high-quality bespoke systems on complex builds.
Looking for a reliable, high-performance roofing solution?
Get in touch with Denton-Powell today to discuss your project requirements and discover how our bespoke riser housing systems can deliver long-term value and performance.
Contact us now to start your project.
📧 [email protected]
📞 01460 242114
Sector
Education
Completion
August 2024
Timescale
10 Week Programme
Materials Used
Powder-coated aluminium panelling, Recticel 60mm PIR insulation, Primed & painted structural steel framework
What they said
You’ve been a pleasure to work with and will be at the top of my list to work with again on future projects.
James Lawley , Senior Project Manager, Morgan Sindall