3D Aluminium were appointed as Principal Contractor to deliver a complex external refurbishment programme involving window replacement, fire safety upgrades, concrete repairs, cladding replacement, external decorating, and associated clean up works.

The project required extensive coordination between multiple specialist subcontractors while maintaining positive resident relationships throughout the programme. Due to the occupied nature of the building and the works taking place largely during the winter months, required careful planning and communication which was critical to ensuring safety, programme continuity, and minimal disruption to residents.

The successful refurbishment of Platinum House delivered significant improvements to the building’s:

• Fire safety performance
• Thermal efficiency
• External appearance
• Resident comfort
• Long-term durability

Despite the complexities of working within an occupied residential tower block during winter conditions, 3D Aluminium successfully coordinated all subcontractors and completed the programme with a strong focus on safety, quality, compliance, and resident liaison.

The project demonstrates 3D Aluminium’s capability to manage large-scale, multi-trade residential refurbishment schemes while maintaining operational efficiency and positive stakeholder relationships throughout the construction process.

The refurbishment programme included:

• Replacement of existing uPVC windows and doors with new thermally enhanced aluminium frames
• Installation of fire barriers between walls and frames and between adjoining apartments
• Replacement of existing insulation with:
  • 140mm fire-rated insulation to wall elevations
  • 40mm fire-rated panels within aluminium framing systems
• Replacement of uPVC cladding at the 7th floor roof area with new steel cladding
• Installation of fire barriers at defined locations throughout the façade system
• Concrete repairs surrounding window openings
• Removal of non-compliant timber decking in accordance with updated Building Risk Assessment (BRA) regulations
• Application of non-slip coatings to steel decking areas
• Full external redecoration of the building and steel feature posts
• Replacement of balcony lighting following window installation works
• Decommissioning and recommissioning of air conditioning units to facilitate window replacement works
• Specialist hazardous waste removal, including pigeon guano contamination from scaffold and balcony areas
• Final external window cleaning and completion works

Installed systems

• Smarts Alitherm 400 Window System
• Smarts Alitherm 400 Door System

One of the most significant challenges was carrying out major refurbishment works within a fully occupied residential tower block. Maintaining strong communication with residents was essential to the successful delivery of the programme.

3D Aluminium implemented a structured appointment scheduling system to coordinate access to individual apartments, ensuring residents were fully informed of upcoming works and durations. While the majority of residents were highly cooperative, the winter working period presented additional challenges during window and door replacement activities.

To minimise cold exposure and disruption:

• Apartment works were carefully sequenced
• Installations were completed efficiently within agreed appointment slots
• Operatives worked closely with residents to maintain comfort and safety throughout the process

This proactive approach helped maintain positive resident relationships and reduced delays to the programme.

The project required detailed coordination between numerous specialist subcontractors, including:

• Window installers
• Electricians
• Concrete repair specialists
• Scaffolders
• Decorators
• Window cleaners
• Air conditioning specialists
• Hazardous waste removal contractors

As Principal Contractor, 3D Aluminium managed all sequencing and interface coordination to ensure works progressed safely and efficiently without trade clashes.

Particular attention was given to coordinating:

• Window replacement works alongside concrete repairs
• Scaffold access for decorators and installers
• Balcony lighting installations following façade completion
• Air conditioning disconnections and reinstatement
• Final scaffold strike procedures to maintain safe access for decorators and cleaners

Through detailed planning and communication, all works were successfully integrated with minimal disruption to the overall programme.

A key logistical challenge involved coordinating the scaffold strike process while ensuring decorators retained safe access to complete high-quality finishing works before final window cleaning operations commenced.

This required close collaboration between the Site Manager and the head scaffolder to carefully phase scaffold removal in line with completed elevations and quality inspections.

Detailed planning ensured:

• Safe access was maintained at all times
• Decoration works could be completed to the required standard
• Window cleaning operations could proceed efficiently following scaffold removal
• Programme deadlines were maintained without compromising safety or workmanship

Due to extensive pigeon activity around scaffold and balcony areas, sections of the site became hazardous because of pigeon guano contamination.

Specialist contractors were brought in to safely remove and dispose of hazardous materials in accordance with environmental and health regulations. Dedicated hazardous waste skips were utilised alongside standard waste management systems.

Waste materials generated throughout the refurbishment were responsibly segregated and recycled wherever possible to support environmental best practice.

A major focus of the refurbishment programme was improving fire safety compliance across the building.

Works included:

• Installation of certified fire barriers
• Upgraded fire-rated insulation systems
• Replacement of combustible cladding elements
• Removal of non-compliant decking materials

Comprehensive reporting and certification were provided throughout the project, including:

• Fire barrier installation reports
• Electrical certification
• Quality assurance documentation
• Compliance records for completed works

This ensured full traceability and compliance with current building and fire safety regulations.

Given the scale of the project and the number of apartments involved, logistics management played a critical role in maintaining programme continuity.

Key measures included:

• Coordinated delivery schedules for multiple apartment installations
• On-site material storage planning
• Careful sequencing of façade works
• Waste management coordination
• Resident access planning
• Continuous communication between trades and site management

These measures ensured works progressed efficiently while avoiding delays caused by material shortages or access restrictions.