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The big cover up: Casings for social housing


of fire sprinkler systems in high-rise social housing, all demand that the pipework is covered to give a decorative and consistent finish. Pre-formed plywood casings are acknowledged


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as the preferred solution for social housing RMI and with more than 30 years manufacturing experience in the sector, Encasement Ltd estimates that more than 100,000 kilometres of its pipe-boxing have already been installed in social housing sites throughout the UK. In any property, whether it’s a new build


or a refurbishment project, there will inevitably be exposed pipework that will need covering for reasons of safety, aesthetics or as a deterrent from tampering, accidental damage or potential vandalism in the case of exterior pipework. However, for housing associations and local


authorities that often deal with older housing stock requiring heating system upgrades, retro-fitted fire sprinkler systems and annual maintenance, the large amounts of exposed pipework can present a number of challenges. Due to the age of the properties and the nature of


their construction, which predominantly uses concrete and brickwork, mechanical and electrical services, as well as pipework need to be surface mounted, as they can’t realistically be concealed during installation. This is particularly relevant for fire sprinkler systems. As sprinklers need to be located within


individual flats and communal areas to suppress fires and aid escape, incorporating them in new builds is comparatively simple, as they can be integrated at the building design stage and pipework can be hidden within risers and ceiling


voids. However, for retro-fitted solutions, this is not an option and in most cases surface mounting is the only practical option. One of the main advantages of surface mounted


interior pipework, whether its for sprinklers, heating systems or boiler pipework, for example, is the simplicity and comparative speed with which it can be installed by skilled contractors, helping to keep costs under control. As a result, it makes sense that the pipe boxing


method chosen to conceal pipework is also quick and easy to install, as the time taken on site and the associated costs are essential considerations on any project of this type. Consequently, these are key reasons why pre-


formed and pre-finished casings, such as Encasement’s pipe and fire sprinkler boxing, have


Riva pipe boxing


become the preferred solution for many social housing landlords. Encasement’s range of pipe boxing and casing


solutions continues to be in high demand with fire sprinkler installation, central heating upgrades and


he ongoing process of routine maintenance, heating system upgrades and new boiler installations, together with the retro-fitting


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Versa fire sprinkler boxing


Pre-formed and pre-finished boiler pipework casing


Arma – aluminium pipe protection


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