NuHomeUK Ltd

Description of the NuHome UK Ltd. Hybrid Steel Framed Volumetric Steel Building System

Factory completed modules are transported to site and stacked upon site constructed foundations. The foundations are site specific, however, they must be designed to suit the ground conditions, be capable of supporting the anticipated loads, and be durable for a minimum period of 60 years. The modules are structurally interconnected by means of connector plates to provide composite action in accordance with requirements of the UK structural codes, and as specifically designed for each structure. The system can be used for one-off detached houses two-storeys high, semi-detached and terraced houses, apartment blocks, and other residential types up to a maximum of 18 storeys in height, subject to structural verification.

The system comprises a hybrid hot-rolled steel primary frame and G350 lightweight galvanised steel-framed (LGSF) floor, wall, ceiling and roof cassettes. Each dwelling comprises a minimum of two modules. The modules are designed to be stable within their own enclosing walls, with the fully-welded hot-rolled steel perimeter primary structure acting as a moment frame. The modules are delivered to site with windows, doors, breather membranes, internal linings, fixtures and fittings installed. Services are pre-installed with final connections made on site. A drained cavity external cladding system is added on site to complete the building.

Durability Assessment: minimum 60 years

Limits of Scope

• Maximum two storeys + roof for residential use (may go higher subject to structural justification)
• Bottom members of the steel frame in contact with the foundations/sub-structure must be fully isolated from contact with moisture from the ground and external sources;
• Minimum 50mm ventilated and drained cavity behind conventional masonry cladding;
• Minimum 25mm drained cavity behind external wall claddings, or as required by the system designer [open jointed and rainscreen systems utilising pressure equalisation may require a wider cavity to be effective]
• Some latent defects insurers may require a minimum 15mm drained cavity behind insulated render and insulated brick slip systems, in all exposure areas. This is intended to minimise the risk of water penetration damaging the structural frame, particularly at openings in the walls
• Thermal checks must be undertaken to ensure that there is no risk of interstitial condensation and/or cold bridging which may impact the durability of the modules
• NuHome UK Ltd. must be contracted for the design, manufacture, supply and erection of the structure
• A qualified structural engineer suitably experienced in the design of this type of structure must be engaged for the structural design and analysis.