Why construction screens are the answer to many on-site pain points

For contractors working on site, the prospect of delays to schedules and overrun fines are among the challenges of any project.
There are many potential causes. Heavy rainfall may lead to water ingress, while strong winds can disrupt operations and compromise worker safety. Dust and debris are also issues that can contaminate other areas and cause disturbances.
It’s a heady mix of challenges. To help overcome them, contractors need to plan accordingly and be prepared for these scenarios by implementing preventative measures as and when appropriate.

How do construction sheets help?

Shrink-wrap acts as a temporary building envelope that partitions different areas of a site.

From a practical perspective, they allow glazing and cladding contractors to complete their installations hindrance free, while internal works can continue as if these external works have already been completed – this is a crucial benefit that allows projects to proceed on schedule, and thus avoid overrun fines.

As well as being aesthetically more pleasing than tarpaulins, construction sheets can also be recycled after use, and our team is always happy to advise on this.

We’ve been installing construction screens in the built environment for more than two decades and thanks to their ability to allow internal and external works to carry on with reduced disturbance, they have become a regular choice for many of our customers, which over the years have included Mace, Wates and Willmott Dixon.

Shrink-wrap, because it is highly versatile and ability to be configured in multiple ways, can protect any construction site and its materials. This allows us to provide a bespoke, consultative-based approach service for our customers – we take the time to fully understand each site and devise the most appropriate shrink-wrap solution.

Key benefits of using shrink-wrap on construction sites

Whether it is a conventional floor to ceiling height of four metres or a taller area with heights exceeding 6.5 metres, construction screens will be able to shield against the weather, while simultaneously containing dust and debris within the wrapped area.

For contractors, this unlocks a series of key benefits for both their workforces and their clients.

The primary advantage of construction screens is protecting the program of works and staying on schedule. Construction screens protect sites against the impacts of adverse weather enabling internal fitouts to begin ahead of program. This is important for contractors, as well as suppliers working across the project’s value chain.

Another benefit is the flame-retardant properties of the shrink-wrap used for construction screens, which have undergone extensive testing with Warrington Fire to comply with the Joint Code of Practice.

Sustainability is also an important consideration for the construction sector. Construction screens are 100% recyclable and Tufcoat has partners who can assist with managing the waste on-site at the end of a project in compliance with our environmental policy and our zero waste to landfill promise.

Choosing a reliable partner

While the benefits of shrink-wrap construction screens are numerous, their successful implementation heavily relies on partnering with a reliable and experienced installation provider. A good provider will operate with complete due diligence from providing structural calculations for the design through to safety and compliance in line with ISO18001, and will exhibit a high level of attention to detail. At Tufcoat, we work with an independent structural engineer to ensure that every project has a temporary works package including supporting calculations and loadings for the construction screen package.

Ensuring on-site compliance and maintaining the highest health and safety standards are of paramount importance to Tufcoat too. Our installations over overseen by managers who hold SMSTS, IOSH and NEBOSH qualifications, while our supervisors are SSSTS-qualified. This commitment to adhering to rigorous safety protocols ensures that every shrink-wrap installation is executed with meticulous care and professionalism. And with regional installation teams strategically located across the UK, Tufcoat offers convenient access to its expertise and services nationwide. Contractors seeking to harness the advantages of shrink-wrap construction screens can get in touch with Tufcoat’s experts at any time to explore tailored solutions that meet their unique project requirements.

By partnering with a reputable and safety-conscious provider, contractors can have complete confidence in the seamless installation and optimal performance of their shrink-wrap construction screens.