A new build care home in Southampton features IKO PLC’s UPXL premium roof system, which has a unique 30 year single point warranty for materials, workmanship and design.

Erskine Court opened this summer and aims to be one of the “best sheltered housing schemes in the South”. It caters for couples and single people over the age of 55. The original care home was demolished so the new 54-bedroom building could be developed.

“IKO has a strong relationship with the client, Southampton County Council,” explains Ashley Chivers, Divisional Director for IKO Roofing Specification. “We were asked for a specification at the planning stage. The Council wanted a roof which was energy efficient, would last as long as possible and deliver value for money. The UPXL system, which is BBA certified, delivered on all points. The energy efficiency requirements were well above the norm so 200mm IKO enertherm insulation board was installed to achieve an impressive U-value of 0.11 W/m².”

The contractor, Salnor Roofing, had to follow a demanding five-month build programme in winter weather, starting at one end of the building and finishing at the other as the roof substrate was being built. This also meant working closely with other trades to ensure the project was completed on time. IKO’s Technical Services team supported Salnor throughout the build.

Ashley adds: “The unique shape of the roof, pictured, was challenging with a lot of detail work around the curved edge, but Salnor Roofing has done a fantastic job and completed the roof to a very high standard. The end-client, Southampton County Council, was very pleased.”

The IKO UPXL built-up system includes built-in graphite technology tested to the highest levels of UK fire performance. It offers a choice of hot or cold applications: the Guardian torch-on system was used for this project for quick and safe installation onsite. The membrane’s unique finish gives better colour stability, stronger adhesion and better coverage of granules on the surface.

For more information on the IKO UPXL system visit www.ikogroup.co.uk/Products/UPXL-Model/