Internal Alterations
With a steel frame there is an opportunity to alter an internal layout. This
may be relatively easy in terms of the structure, but will raise other issues
that need to be considered and experienced technical advice obtained.
Buildings constructed before the mid 70’s contained asbestos. Check with your
Local Authority with regards its Asbestos policy.
Avoid altering structural elements if at all possible. The operation tends to be very expensive and reduces the
added value of the project.
When making internal alterations the following environmental points need careful
consideration:
Daylight
Ventilation
Thermal performance
Acoustics
Other issues for which experienced technical advice is required are:
Fire performance. On a CLASP building the fabric of the building gives fire protection to the
steel frame. This includes the partitions and the ceiling.
Structural integrity. On a CLASP building the frame is pin jointed therefore the roof deck and the
floor deck have a structural function. There are also diagonal steel braces that
cannot be removed.
Weather tightness
Additional guidance is available from the DfES: www.dfes.gov.uk/schoolbuildings