ALUGLAZE Makes a Name for Itself at MacDonalds Hotel, Manchester

Tag : Polyester Structure

You only have to look at the changing face of our city centres tosee how important aluminium infill panels are becoming both forcreating a striking new look to a building as well as providing therequired levels of insulation. The former BT building on Old LondonRoad has undergone a complete transformation and refurbishment intothe striking MacDonalds Hotel in Manchester city centre.

The visual appearance of the existing concrete structure has beencompletely transformed with the addition of ALUGLAZE®aluminium infill panels, which have been added to its exterior onall eight levels. As well as improving the aesthetics of thebuilding the ALUGLAZE® panels also significantly improved thethermal performance of the building.

ALUGLAZE® from Panel Systems consists of polyester powdercoated aluminium facing bonded to an insulating core of Styrofoam.Panel Systems worked closely with Solaglas Contracting (part ofSaint Gobain) to incorporate their glazing systems into the designto create a truly stunning visual effect. In total, 4,000 squaremetres of Aluminium faced composite panels were supplied for theeight storey building. This method of cladding is becoming a keycomponent of many high profile city centre projects where aestheticconsiderations are paramount. ALUGLAZE® was therefore theperfect choice for this four star hotel right in the heart ofManchester city centre.

It was also important that the building met the relevant U-valuesto ensure thermal performance and energy efficiency. As a materialwith low density and low thermal conductivity, Styrofoam is a highperformance insulation material. It offers excellent compressionresistance and avoids moisture intake. ALUGLAZE® is also veryeasy to install and can span large areas to give the specifiergreater flexibility when considering the overall design.

Rob Newman, Project Manager for Solaglas Contracting, explains: