England's' biggest school receives the Ash & Lacy treatment


The largest school in the country has received a make over featuring an Ash & Lacy Ashjack propped rafter over-roof conversion system. Great Barr School in Birmingham, which is based on a single site on the Aldridge Road, has installed a new roof over the existing flat roof on its main teaching block, the sports hall, dressing rooms and over a number of small offices. The existing felt roof had reached the end of its design life a number of years ago and was prone to leaking. This problem was further compounded by an internal drainage system which was subsequently moved to the outside of the building during the refurbishment project. The lightweight Ashjack framing system was installed by main contractors Mitie Roofing and then overclad with a standing seam roofing system.

Ashjack over-roof conversion systems are constructed using a bespoke lightweight steel framing system, which is primarily designed to create a roof pitch. Offering a permanent solution to failed flat roofs they can be used to construct a variety of pitched or curved roof structures that incorporate ridges, hips, valleys soffit/fascias and overhangs. A range of systems is available which can be individually designed and tailored to suit the specific structural and design requirements of the existing roof. The lightweight structural metal frame system has an excellent strength to weight ratio and can support both modern and traditional over cladding systems to achieve the required aesthetics. . Geoff Read of Mitie Roofing commented - "The results were wonderful. I was very impressed. We have worked with Ash & Lacy staff on other projects and they're very helpful."

Great Barr School, a mixed comprehensive for ages 11-18yrs, has established a long and successful tradition, remaining well subscribed every year with an average of 2,400 pupils, and grades and qualification levels rising consistently. The school has its' own Sixth Form Centre incorporating an Open Learning Centre as well as a Technology Centre, alongside a gymnasium, playing fields and recreational grounds.

Bob Evans of Great Barr school commented - "We are all very happy with the roof; it was a large and extensive area which needed refurbishment due to all the problems we were experiencing. The new roof is working well and has overcome all these issues."

Developed by Ash & Lacy in 1989, Ashjack was the first structural lightweight over-roof conversion system in the UK. Quick and simple to assemble, Ashjack has provided a permanent refurbishment solution on buildings throughout all sectors of the construction industry. From a commercial point of view the life of the building is considerably extended, maintenance is reduced and the upgraded aesthetic properties add additional value to the property. Supported by a network of experienced installers the Ashjack system is also ideal for use on new build projects where it provides a lightweight alternative to timber trusses or heavy hot rolled sections.

Telephone : 0121 525 1444
Fax : 0121 525 3444
E-mail : sales@ashandlacy.com