March 2003


Based on their depth of knowledge and technical expertise in the construction industry Ash & Lacy have launched a new standing seam roofing system. Available in aluminium and steel and in cover widths of 300 and 400 mm, the addition of Ashzip to the already extensive building systems product portfolio firmly positions the company as a key supplier of metal building envelope solutions. Manufactured on new state-of-the-art production equipment Ashzip has been designed to offer specifiers and contractors the unrivalled product quality and customer service associated with Ash & Lacy Building Systems.

Designed for roof pitches down to 1.5o, Ashzip is secretly fixed by engaging an anchor headed fixing halter within a keyhole standing seam rib. Available in a variety of curved and tapered options, Ashzip can be roll formed on site at ground or eaves level to create a continuous weathertight roof construction without any through-fixings or end laps. With its attractive narrow ribs at wide centres, Ashzip offers a low risk, factory engineered roofing solution without an 'industrial' looking appearance for both newbuild and refurbishment applications.

Where Ashzip differs from other standing seam roofing systems is in the philosophy adopted by Ash & Lacy which is based on providing a total roof envelope solution from a single source. By incorporating other high performance Ash & Lacy building envelope components into the roofing system, compatibility is ensured between the individual components. Particular attention is paid to the appearance and performance of the perimeter detailing which is often overlooked by many standing seam manufactures. This backed up by unrivalled technical & design expertise and a wealth of knowledge in the built-up roofing market puts Ashzip head and shoulders above the competition.

With recent changes to the Building Regulations/Technical Standards and the introduction of Lambda 90/90 achieving compliance with twin skin roofing systems has become more and more onerous. The thermal performance of the Ashzip standing seam roofing system which incorporates the industry standard Ashgrid spacer support system easily meets the thermal requirements of new Regulations/Standards and has been calculated by taking into account the effects of two and three dimensional heat flow and. Ashzip also provides an airtight solution as the system places the emphasis on creating an air line seal and effective vapour control layer utilising the liner sheet.

Commenting on the latest product development by Ash & Lacy, Martin Shackell, Business Development Director said:

"This is a very exciting development for Ash & Lacy as the addition of Ashzip enhances the total envelope solution we are able to offer. Although there are a number of standing seam manufactures in the UK we are confident that our 'total roofing solution' approach will make Ashzip an unbeatable choice for both specifies and contractors. The existing skill base within the company has been enhanced with the recruitment of a team of standing seam specialists and with this infrastructure firmly in place the company is positioned for a very successful future indeed".