Tag: canada

Why are Prefab Balconies the New Choice for High-Rise Developments?

Posted on by Nimrita Bassi

Traditionally, balcony construction has often been an afterthought in the building design, and concrete balconies don’t make the process any easier.

With the more efficient and sustainable modern methods of construction, off-site manufacturing and prefabricated balconies are transforming projects.

Here are 7 reasons why prefabricated balconies are the new choice for high-rise residential buildings:

  1. Increased Perceived Value: Prefab balconies are manufactured off-site, focusing on functionality, sustainability, and aesthetics. Improved visual appeal contributes to a building’s market value as high-quality finishes, sustainable materials, and functional designs appeal to buyers. Additionally, because prefab balconies are produced efficiently, developers benefit from cost savings through reduced waste and faster installation.
  2. Enhanced Thermal Efficiency: Step codes are driving the push for increased thermal performance in new Canadian constructions. Heat can easily escape through balcony structures without proper thermal breaks, undermining the building’s energy efficiency. Prefab balconies allow manufacturers to place thermal breaks in tactical locations within the balcony system to reduce heat loss in the building, leading to improved thermal performance.                                                          
  3. Higher Project Efficiency: Prefinishing balconies off site reduces the need for on-site trades as there is no manufacturing of balconies in situ. Delivering fully assembled units also means faster balcony installation.
  4. Unmatched Quality Assurance: Balconies that are produced in controlled factory conditions undergo several quality checks, ensuring that each balcony has a trackable history. For example, at Sapphire we use the Passport App to record and track each balcony’s progress through the different production and quality check stages.
  1. Ideal for Passive House Developments: Thermally broken balconies increase energy efficiency and reduce heat loss, aligning with passive house principles. Prefabricated aluminium balconies also lower structural load as they are lightweight and complement sustainable building frames like cross-laminated timber frames.

Learn in our case study how we streamlined the balcony project at Vienna House, a passive house residential development in Vancouver, Canada.

  1. Higher Design Flexibility: Off-site manufacturing allows for more opportunities to create a functional balcony design that offers comfort to residents and simplifies installation and on-site handling of balconies by installers. Prefinished balconies can be thoughtfully assembled in the factory while keeping the risk of error as low as possible.
  2. Compliance with Standards: Features like thermal breaks in prefab balconies improve energy efficiency by lowering heat transfer, supporting compliance with standards like the Toronto Green Standard. Sustainable balcony design can also contribute to lower TEDI ratings. 

Discover in our case studies how our prefabricated balconies have benefited projects across the UK and Canada.

 

 

 

 

How could I use MLI Select to benefit my balcony development?

Posted on by Sajjad B

[vc_row width=”70″ background_image=””][vc_column][sapphire_textBlock]It’s true – using a modular balcony system could make the difference when it comes to increasing the value of your development. Here’s how.

What is MLI Select?

Using the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s (CMHC) MLI (Multi-Unit Loan Insurance) Select program, developers can be given financial incentives and rewards for building affordable, energy-efficient and accessible residential units.

The more affordable, energy-efficient and accessible the development, the more points the developer will be awarded.

What are the financial incentives?

The points earned from MLI Select can be used to access financial incentives. Each one provides the developer and the end-user with a range of benefits, including:

  1. Lower mortgage insurance fees of up to 75% reduction.
  2. Longer amortization periods of up to 50 years.
  3. Reduced interest rates of up to 1.5% lower.
  4. Access to preferential financing terms, with lenders confirmed to offer more attractive interest rates due to the lower risk associated with CMHC-backed loans.

Accessibility

Using a modular system designed by Sapphire means accessibility can be considered and implemented from the design stage.

Door reveals and thresholds are designed to be step-free, and balconies can have a 1.7m turning radius factored in (as per ACA requirements), both of which allow a wheelchair user to easily and independently navigate their way on and off the balcony.

Sustainability

Sapphire’s modular balcony systems contribute to energy efficiency by reducing thermal bridging and embodied carbon through innovative design. Each of our balconies is thermally broken by design and features just 1% of the thermal transmission compared to a traditional concrete alternative.

The prefabricated design minimizes construction waste, supports sustainable development goals and aligns with Toronto Green Standard to Tier 4 compliance. By using a modular, aluminum balcony, your project can achieve higher MLI points under the CMHC’s framework whilst ensuring compliance with strict urban sustainability standards.

What next?

Your next development could benefit from extended amortizations, lower insurance fees and reduced interest rates, significantly raising the value of your project. Incorporating a modular balcony system, aligning with schemes like Toronto Green Standard Tier 4 and maximizing the benefits of the MLI Select program could make your next development one to be envied.

To learn more about our modular system and how it could increase your development’s perceived value, get in touch with our team today.[/sapphire_textBlock][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row width=”70″ background_image=”” el_id=”” el_class=”” css=””][vc_column][vc_raw_html css=””]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[/vc_raw_html][/vc_column][/vc_row]

What are TEDI Ratings and How Do They Affect Balcony Design?

Posted on by Sajjad B

[vc_row width=”70″ background_image=””][vc_column][sapphire_textBlock]TEDI ratings are often seen as complex, a necessary yet crucial metric by which to assess the sustainability of a building.

TEDI ratings don’t need to be complex. In fact, by engaging with your suppliers early and making informed decisions, it couldn’t be simpler.

TEDI Ratings Explained

TEDI ratings (or Thermal Energy Demand Intensity ratings) indicate the energy efficiency of a building by measuring how much energy it requires for heating. Essentially, it signifies how well-insulated a building is and how much energy it will take to keep it warm. The lower the TEDI rating, the more energy-efficient a building is and generally speaking, the better for the environment it is.

TEDI ratings aren’t just for developers and suppliers, however. The consumer may keep TEDI ratings in mind when purchasing a property too – lower TEDI ratings can often lead to energy cost savings and so not only are lower TEDI scorers more environmentally friendly, but they’re cheaper to boot.

TEDI is scored over an extended period of time, typically in kilowatt-hours per square meter per year (kWh/m2/year). Firstly, data is collected regarding the building’s heating energy consumption and floor area. The total heating energy consumption (in kWh) is divided by the total floor area of the building (in m2) over a year to determine the energy demand intensity. The resulting number, or TEDI value, is then compared to established benchmarks to assess the building’s energy efficiency.

We spoke with experts on the TEDI rating system who mentioned the importance of TEDI ratings. Bluescape Partner Rob Kirwan spoke on how working strategically with companies that understand TEDI ratings and who can execute sustainable plans is crucial to lowering your TEDI score. Speaking with Andrew Geldard (BDP Quadrangle), he mentioned that the external envelope is key to lowering your TEDI score. Thermally breaking your external envelope elements will have a big effect on your TEDI number. Achieving Passive House levels means focusing on lowering your TEDI score, so taking this into account at an early stage is key.

The full TEDI Talks event from Resibuild is available below:

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The importance of sustainable building practices

Sustainability is becoming ever more important in the construction sector, with a huge emphasis on meeting Passive House standards to lower the embodied carbon footprint of all new construction.

By its very nature, the construction industry is a big user of natural resources – from energy usage to emissions. There is increasing pressure to reduce the environmental impact – Current and incoming Canadian step codes across the construction sector mean that building sustainably is more important than ever before.

Sustainable construction is possible with several factors like reducing energy consumption, taking care of waste, creating a healthy and sustainable environment, using renewable and recyclable resources and protecting the natural environment.[/sapphire_textBlock][sapphire_textOverlayBlock image=”13979″ heading=”Sustainability Hub” button_text=”Learn more” button_link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Flocalhost%2Fbalconies%2Fknowledge%2Fsustainability%2F|title:Sustainability%20Hub” double_height=””]How do sustainable practices benefit my development?[/sapphire_textOverlayBlock][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row width=”70″ background_image=””][vc_column][sapphire_textBlock]

Innovations in Sustainable Balcony Design

Balcony design and materials can contribute to lower TEDI ratings. Looking at a sustainable alternative to concrete balconies, like a prefabricated solution, can lead directly to a lower TEDI score.

There are plenty of examples of products that have lowered their TEDI ratings through innovation. Whether it’s the inclusion of recycled materials, new technologies implemented throughout the manufacturing process or even an adherence to the Science-Based Target Initiative, each of these approaches has a ripple effect, creating sustainability across the board.

One of these examples is our Next Generation balcony system.

Thanks to a lightweight design and our innovative Clip-On™ anchor, we’ve been able to reduce the weight on a building’s structure when compared to a concrete balcony by up to 4kNm. Balconies are, in fact, very easy to thermally break. The small penetrations mean that less surface area needs to be thermally broken. By featuring a thermal break in the connection anchor, far less heat is lost through the façade, and so a prefabricated balcony can help to make a building thermally efficient and in turn lower a TEDI rating.

There are factors to consider when using a prefabricated balcony, such as compliance with Canadian step codes should also be considered. Having a prefabricated balcony can lead to sustainability benefits, but making sure that balcony designs comply with relevant building codes and regulations, including requirements for structural integrity, fire safety, and accessibility, is crucial for ensuring code compliance.

Learn more below:[/sapphire_textBlock][sapphire_contentLink order=”Image left / content right” image=”13193″ heading=”Discover Sapphire’s Next Generation Balcony” button_text=”Discover” button_link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Flocalhost%2Fbalconies%2Four-product%2Fthe-next-generation-balcony%2F|title:The%20Next%20Generation%20Balcony”]The Next Generation Balcony is a huge step forward for the construction market[/sapphire_contentLink][sapphire_textOverlayBlock image=”14064″ heading=”Recycled Material & Sustainability” button_text=”Learn more” button_link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Flocalhost%2Fbalconies%2Fnews%2Frecycled-material-and-sustainability%2F|title:Recycled%20Material%20%26%20Sustainability” double_height=””]Can recycled material make a real difference to your project?[/sapphire_textOverlayBlock][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row width=”70″ background_image=””][vc_column][sapphire_textBlock]Understanding TEDI ratings should be vital when identifying your building’s balcony design.

Not only are sustainable building practices more important in today’s climate than ever before, but designing with sustainability in mind can make a more energy-efficient building, encourage innovation in your design and even make your development more attractive to end-users.

We’re committed to bringing true balcony innovation to North America. To learn more, visit our Canadian hub:[/sapphire_textBlock][sapphire_textOverlayBlock image=”12101″ heading=”Sapphire Balconies Inc.” button_text=”Discover” button_link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Flocalhost%2Fbalconies%2Fca%2F|title:Canadian%20Home%20Page” double_height=””]Visit our Canadian hub to learn more.[/sapphire_textOverlayBlock][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row width=”70″ background_image=”” el_id=”” el_class=”” css=””][vc_column][vc_raw_html]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[/vc_raw_html][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Insider Magazine Recognizes ATW Group for Global Growth

Posted on by Sajjad B

[vc_row width=”70″ background_image=””][vc_column][sapphire_textBlock]As Insider Magazine recently revealed the 100 fastest-expanding global businesses in the South-East with their Global Growth list, they’ve profiled some of the companies currently doing things very right. We’re excited to say that we’re one of those companies!

Streamlining the balcony journey

Overseas sales growth of companies based in the South-East of England was the main metric of analysis in Insider’s report, working off of figures provided by companies in their latest accounts.

We’ve worked tirelessly over the last ten years to provide balconies not just to the UK, but to the EU and most recently have ventured into the Canadian residential construction market to bring the benefits of a Next Generation balcony system to them too.

We’ve streamlined the balcony journey for a huge number of jobs in Ireland – recently, we supplied 355 balconies to a job for John Sisk & Son Ltd in Dublin on Coopers Cross. The project, which started in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, was significantly delayed, as were many projects across the globe. We ensured as little disruption as possible to our supply chain, so we were able to continue the design process even as the site was shut down.

Explore the full Coopers Cross case study via the link below:[/sapphire_textBlock][sapphire_textOverlayBlock image=”14053″ heading=”Cooper’s Cross, Dublin – Case Study” button_text=”Download” button_link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Flocalhost%2Fbalconies%2Fcase-studies%2Fcoopers-cross-dublin%2F|title:Coopers%20Cross%2C%20Dublin” double_height=””]Discover what makes Coopers Cross so outstanding.[/sapphire_textOverlayBlock][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row width=”70″ background_image=””][vc_column][sapphire_textBlock]

New Markets

[/sapphire_textBlock][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][sapphire_carousel images=”14051,14052″ notch=””][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][sapphire_textBlock]Bringing our innovative approach to countries outside of the EU doesn’t stop at Ireland however.

We’ve been taking our initial steps into the Canadian market with a groundbreaking new project in Vancouver, British Columbia, called Vienna House.

In attendance were Mayor of Vancouver Ken Sim and Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon, amongst many excited others. Mr Sim, speaking about the ground-breaking, had this to say:

“Breaking ground for Vienna House – where affordability, sustainability, and social equity unite! Thankful to our partners at the Province of British Columbia, BC Housing, More than a Roof and the City of Vienna for making it possible. Excited to build 123 more affordable rental units for Vancouver. Through strong Ministry of Housing partnerships and a focus on energy efficiency designs, we’re not just building homes, but shaping a future where affordable living is a reality for all Vancouverites”.

Off the back of this, Minister for Housing Ravi Kahlon said:

“These changes will help Canada reduce carbon pollution, support the forestry sector, create jobs, build more homes and lead to more vibrant, healthier communities”.

We’re proud to have a small part in Vienna House’s grand beginnings and are excited to see how the project takes shape over the coming years as a sustainable centre for residential living.[/sapphire_textBlock][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row width=”70″ background_image=””][vc_column][sapphire_textBlock]This is a testament to the fantastic results we’ve been able to achieve – as we work through 2024 and beyond, we’re committed to sustaining these results and providing a better balcony, not just for projects in the UK, but globally.

To find out more about how Sapphire could streamline your project, contact us today:[/sapphire_textBlock][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row width=”70″ background_image=”” el_id=”” el_class=”” css=””][vc_column][vc_raw_html]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[/vc_raw_html][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row width=”70″ background_image=”” order=”Image left / content right” image=”13193″ heading=”Discover Sapphire’s Next Generation Balcony” button_text=”Discover” button_link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Flocalhost%2Fbalconies%2Four-product%2Fthe-next-generation-balcony%2F|title:The%20Next%20Generation%20Balcony”][vc_column][sapphire_contentLink order=”Image left / content right” image=”13193″ heading=”Discover Sapphire’s Next Generation Balcony” button_text=”Discover” button_link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Flocalhost%2Fbalconies%2Four-product%2Fthe-next-generation-balcony%2F|title:The%20Next%20Generation%20Balcony”]The Next Generation Balcony is a huge step forward for the construction market[/sapphire_contentLink][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Why Would a Prefabricated Balcony Benefit My Development?

Posted on by Sajjad B

[vc_row width=”70″ background_image=””][vc_column][sapphire_textBlock]For years, balcony construction has been a last-minute addition to an otherwise well-considered building. Adding on concrete slabs takes significant time, can be cumbersome in terms of waterproofing and drainage, and can be costly.

Prefabricated balconies change all of this.

By using a prefabricated solution, you could save time and cost, all the while making your development lighter, faster, safer, kinder and with more possibilities than ever.

In this article, we’ll be talking through modular construction and prefabrication, how to integrate cross-laminated timber with your development and some design considerations when using a prefabricated balcony solution.

Why Should I Use Prefabrication or Modular Construction?

Prefabrication and modular construction are innovative approaches that could benefit your development.

Reducing your time on site by not needing to manufacture balconies in-situ can be a time and cost-effective way to manage balconies on your development. Delivering fully assembled units means not only a decrease in cost, but also a reduction in risk.

Pre-finishing as much as possible in the factory reduces the requirement for secure storage on site – a further benefit particularly ideal for projects in city centres like Toronto, Vancouver or New York where site space can often be extremely limited.

On-site health and safety issues, such as the risk of errors and potentially costly project delays due to bad weather, can be reduced with a prefabricated solution.

Finally, this increase in quality stretches out to quality assurance too – prefabricating balconies in factory conditions ensures a high degree of quality control which is almost impossible to achieve on site.

Integration of CLT in Construction

Cross-laminated timber (CLT), or Mass Timber, is created by glueing together layers of solid-sawn lumber from a single log. By glueing together layers of wood at the right angles, CLT can achieve better structural rigidity than regular timber in both vertical and horizontal directions.

The benefits of CLT are numerous. CLT offers a prefabricated material that is incredibly flexible for building design – including CLT in a building’s design from an early stage is beneficial as it can result in shorter installation times therefore reducing the cost of labour on-site if planned well. Furthermore, the fire performance of CLT is very good, as it is fire-rated and compliant for ongoing use. Whilst concrete is the conventional option due to the perceived rigidity of the product, some companies suggest that CLT can be favourable over concrete as it is 20-30% faster to install, so can reduce labour on-site.

Design Considerations for Prefabricated Balconies

Prefabrication may well be the streamlined and simplified method of balcony production, but considerations still need to be taken when using a prefabricated balcony product.

Firstly, balconies need to be designed to ensure compatibility with modular construction processes. Implementing a modular design further allows balcony components to be fabricated off-site in controlled environments, enhancing quality control and streamlining assembly processes on-site.

Ensuring your balcony design integrates seamlessly with other building systems such as façade elements and structural supports, can enhance overall project coordination and efficiency.

Compliance with step codes in Canada must also be considered. Having a prefabricated balcony can lead to sustainability benefits, but making sure that balcony designs comply with relevant building codes and regulations, including requirements for structural integrity, fire safety, and accessibility, are crucial for ensuring code compliance.

 

Prefabrication is reinventing modern balcony construction – as time goes on, we’re seeing signs that the modular approach to balcony manufacturing could be on its way to becoming the norm.

Whilst there are design considerations that need to be taken in order to make prefabricated balconies work on your development, the benefits are enormous. Building with CLT / Mass Timber can mean faster construction times and with a CLT connection bracket, installing a balcony is as simple as gliding it straight on.

Finally, with the various benefits of a prefabricated approach such as faster installation times, reduced working hours on site and quality assurance, your development can benefit from not only a streamlined approach, but a lighter, safer, kinder one too, with more possibilities than ever before.

To learn more about how a prefabricated solution could benefit your project, visit our Next Generation suite page:[/sapphire_textBlock][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row width=”70″ background_image=”” order=”Image left / content right” image=”13193″ heading=”Discover Sapphire’s Next Generation Balcony” button_text=”Discover” button_link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Flocalhost%2Fbalconies%2Four-product%2Fthe-next-generation-balcony%2F|title:The%20Next%20Generation%20Balcony”][vc_column][sapphire_contentLink order=”Image left / content right” image=”13193″ heading=”Discover Sapphire’s Next Generation Balcony” button_text=”Discover” button_link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Flocalhost%2Fbalconies%2Four-product%2Fthe-next-generation-balcony%2F|title:The%20Next%20Generation%20Balcony”]The Next Generation Balcony is a huge step forward for the construction market[/sapphire_contentLink][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row width=”70″ background_image=”” el_id=”” el_class=”” css=””][vc_column][vc_raw_html]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[/vc_raw_html][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Pre-fab Balconies at BuildEx Vancouver

Posted on by Sajjad B

[vc_row width=”70″ background_image=””][vc_column][sapphire_textBlock]At BuildEx Vancouver, we had the chance to connect with Canadian industry experts and showcase our Next Generation suite of balconies, featuring an innovative CLT connection and standout balcony design.

Our Next Generation balcony sets a new standard, offering a lighter, faster, and more environmentally conscious balcony than any other option on the market.

If you couldn’t attend, don’t worry – we’ve gathered valuable insights from your inquiries and compiled answers to your most pressing questions about our prefabricated Next Generation balconies.

Discover how our Next Generation balcony could significantly enhance your upcoming residential project.

Connecting balconies to timber

A question that kept coming up was how we can connect to a cross-laminated (CLT) or mass timber framework – Our balconies have an innovative connection system that can connect to many building frameworks, including CLT.

As CLT is a relatively light building material, unlike concrete the balcony cant be cast in place and the strength of the slab to take forces of heavier balconies are reduced. Brackets can be fixed to the top of the CLT slab at an angle to maximise pull-out resistance from the balcony moment forces and tested in advance to confirm structural integrity. One of the advantages of Sapphire’s system is that the light weight means it can be used with CLT. Our innovative Next Generation Cassette solution can be used as the structural integrity of the frame can be maintained even with the heavier steel anchor arms.

Read our full article on connecting to CLT brackets here:[/sapphire_textBlock][sapphire_textOverlayBlock image=”13837″ heading=”Connecting to CLT Brackets” button_text=”Learn more” button_link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Flocalhost%2Fbalconies%2Fglobal%2Fglide-on-variation-connecting-to-clt-brackets%2F” double_height=””]It’s possible to connect a balcony to CLT brackets with Sapphire’s Next Generation balconies.[/sapphire_textOverlayBlock][sapphire_carousel images=”13832,13833,13834,13835″ notch=””][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row width=”70″ background_image=””][vc_column][sapphire_textBlock]

Built-in thermal breaks

With an increased focus on LEED, TEDI and Passive House, thermal performance is crucial. If you make penetrations in a building’s façade, how can you maintain thermal performance?

Simple. Our balconies are future-ready and pre-fabricated off-site. On the site itself, small penetrations are made in the building façade that we’ve incorporated a small thermal break into. Each of these small penetrations can achieve a reduction in heat loss without the need for a continuous linear thermal break.

In fact, built-in thermal breaks can be simpler to achieve than linear thermal breaks in many circumstances and function at an even higher level of performance than traditional concrete alternatives.

To know more, just ask us about the Sapphire StubGuard, or visit the link below:[/sapphire_textBlock][sapphire_textOverlayBlock image=”6503″ heading=”StubGuard®” button_text=”Read more” button_link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Flocalhost%2Fbalconies%2Four-product%2Fanchors-stubs%2Fstubguard%2F|title:StubGuard%C2%AE” double_height=””]Learn about Sapphire’s StubGuard solution by visiting the product page.[/sapphire_textOverlayBlock][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row width=”70″ background_image=””][vc_column][sapphire_textBlock]

Appearance vs. Concrete

Finally, we were overwhelmed with comments on just how good our system looks. Thanks to working with aluminum, we can not only control the design but also the aesthetic that comes along with it.

  • Premium Quality – Factory-controlled stage-by-stage quality control processes guarantee a premium balcony.
  • Finished Deck & Underside – With neat aluminum soffits underneath and decking included as standard, Sapphire’s Next Generation balconies have an enhanced street appeal and take the aesthetic appeal of your building to the next level.
  • Discreet Fixings – Sapphire’s Next Generation balconies have been carefully engineered to avoid visible welds and keep fixings discreet. Every single balcony comes with soffits included which complete the underside and maintain a clean, simple aesthetic.
  • Balconies That Fit Every Time – We provide templates with our cast-in anchors. These templates avoid reinforced concrete frame casting mismeasurements and avoid the traditional bolt-on or concrete balcony misalignment issues, which can cause coordination issues and variations.

Visit this page to understand even more about the benefits of our Next Generation aluminum balconies:[/sapphire_textBlock][sapphire_textOverlayBlock image=”12004″ heading=”Aluminum vs. Concrete Balconies” button_text=”Read more” button_link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Flocalhost%2Fbalconies%2Fknowledge%2Faluminium-concrete-balconies%2F|title:Aluminium%20vs%20Concrete%20Balconies” double_height=””]Read our full article demonstrating the differences between our innovative aluminum solution and traditional concrete.[/sapphire_textOverlayBlock][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row width=”70″ background_image=””][vc_column][sapphire_textBlock]

Conclusion

With our Next Generation Cassette system, we’re offering innovative solutions for connecting balconies to timber frameworks, such as cross-laminated timber (CLT), incorporating built-in thermal breaks, crucial for maintaining thermal performance, surpassing traditional concrete alternatives.

Are you ready to be part of the future of construction? The Next Generation is here and can be specified for your residential project today.

Contact us to find out even more:[/sapphire_textBlock][vc_raw_html]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[/vc_raw_html][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Pre-fab balconies at The Buildings Show 2023

Posted on by Sajjad B

[vc_row width=”70″ background_image=””][vc_column][sapphire_textBlock]Between an innovative CLT connection and a balcony design that stood out amongst the crowd – The Buildings Show was a fantastic opportunity for us to meet and greet Canadian professionals and show off our Next Generation suite of balconies.

Our Next Generation balcony, which is lighter, faster, and kinder than any other balcony on the market. If you missed out, don’t fret – we listened to what you had to say and collected some answers to some of the most crucial questions you had about our pre-fab Next Generation balconies.

Here’s how our Next Generation balcony could truly benefit your next residential project.[/sapphire_textBlock][sapphire_carousel images=”13430,13431,13432,13433,13434,13435″ notch=””][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row width=”70″ background_image=””][vc_column][sapphire_textBlock]

Connecting balconies to timber

A question that kept coming up was how we can connect to a cross-laminated (CLT) or mass timber framework – Our balconies have an innovative connection system that can connect to many building frameworks including CLT.

Unlike concrete, CLT is a relatively light building material and does not need to be cast in place. Brackets can be fixed to the top of the CLT slab at an angle to maximise pull-out resistance from the balcony moment forces and tested in advance to confirm structural integrity. One of the advantages of Sapphire’s system is that the light weight means it can be used with CLT. Our innovative Next Generation Cassette solution can be used as the structural integrity of the frame can be maintained even with the heavier steel anchor arms.

Read our full article on connecting to CLT brackets here:[/sapphire_textBlock][sapphire_textOverlayBlock image=”13427″ heading=”Connecting to CLT brackets” button_text=”Read more” button_link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Flocalhost%2Fbalconies%2Fnews%2Fglide-on-variation-connecting-to-clt-brackets%2F|title:Glide-On%20Variation%3A%20Connecting%20to%20CLT%20brackets” double_height=””]Find out how our modular balcony system connects to CLT by reading the full article here.[/sapphire_textOverlayBlock][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row width=”70″ background_image=””][vc_column][sapphire_textBlock]

Built-in thermal breaks

With an increased focus on LEED, TEDI and Passive House – thermal performance is crucial. So if you make penetrations in a building’s façade, how can you maintain thermal performance?

Simple. Our balconies are future-ready and pre-fabricated off-site. On the site itself, small penetrations are made in the building façade that we’ve incorporated a small thermal break into. Each of these small penetrations can achieve a reduction in heat loss without the need for a continuous linear thermal break.

In fact, built-in thermal breaks can be simpler to achieve than a linear thermal break in many circumstances and function at an even higher level of performance than traditional concrete alternatives. To enable the continuity of fire barrier integrity, we created the StubGuard® to improve this performance even further.

To know more, just ask us about the Sapphire StubGuard, or visit the link below:[/sapphire_textBlock][sapphire_textOverlayBlock image=”6503″ heading=”StubGuard®” button_text=”Read more” button_link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Flocalhost%2Fbalconies%2Four-product%2Fanchors-stubs%2Fstubguard%2F|title:StubGuard%C2%AE” double_height=””]Learn about Sapphire’s StubGuard solution by visiting the product page.[/sapphire_textOverlayBlock][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row width=”70″ background_image=””][vc_column][sapphire_textBlock]

Cold weather performance

How do modular balconies protect buildings from the cold?

Between using a material that doesn’t crack in the cold weather, unlike traditional concrete balcony building methods, and including our previously mentioned built-in thermal breaks, pre-fab balconies are the best way to protect a residential unit from the cold without having to sacrifice outdoor living space.

Sapphire has been supplying and installing balconies for many years and has amassed a large amount of knowledge and experience in effective balcony solutions to increasing demand for improved thermal performance, off-site prefabrication and reduced structural loadings.

Our balconies have been thoroughly examined by RDH, successfully tested for Freeze-Thaw and Cold Weather performance and we’ve collected our findings in a new whitepaper, available for request via the below link.[/sapphire_textBlock][sapphire_textOverlayBlock image=”13334″ heading=”Freeze-Thaw Whitepaper” button_text=”Download whitepaper” button_link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Flocalhost%2Fbalconies%2Fknowledge%2Fwhite-papers%2Ffreeze-thaw-cold-weather-performance-of-sapphire-balconies-whitepaper%2F|title:Freeze-Thaw%20%26%20Cold%20Weather%20Performance%20of%20Sapphire%20Balconies%20%E2%80%93%20whitepaper” double_height=””]Request the full whitepaper to understand how our balconies perform in freezing weather.[/sapphire_textOverlayBlock][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row width=”70″ background_image=””][vc_column][sapphire_textBlock]

Bespoke design

Sapphire’s Next Generation balconies have a huge number of design possibilities that can be catered to your architectural design needs.

We’ve increased not just the number of connection methods available with the Next Generation Balcony but increased the aesthetic freedom for your design and architecture team too. Thanks to our new Clip-On™ connection, the Next Generation Balcony clips into small hooks integrated into the façade just like a seatbelt. Furthermore, we’re proud to introduce the Crescent Corner Cassette®, Identité Balustrade and Crescent Balustrade as options for your balcony balustrade, each available in hundreds of colors for a total of over 7 million aesthetic combinations.[/sapphire_textBlock][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row width=”70″ background_image=””][vc_column][sapphire_textBlock]

Appearance vs. Concrete

Finally, we were overwhelmed with comments on just how good our system looks. Thanks to working with aluminum, we can not only control the design, but also the aesthetic that comes along with it.

  • Premium Quality – Factory-controlled stage-by-stage quality control processes guarantee a premium balcony.
  • Finished Deck & Underside – With neat aluminum soffits underneath and decking included as standard, Sapphire’s Next Generation balconies have an enhanced street appeal and take the aesthetic appeal of your building to the next level.
  • Discreet Fixings – Sapphire’s Next Generation balconies have been carefully engineered to avoid visible welds and keep fixings discreet. Every single balcony comes with soffits included which complete the underside and maintain a clean, simple aesthetic.
  • Balconies That Fit Every Time – We provide templates with our cast-in anchors. These templates avoid reinforced concrete frame casting mismeasurements and avoid the traditional bolt-on or concrete balcony misalignment issues, which can cause coordination issues and variations.

To understand even more about the benefits of our Next Generation aluminum balconies, download this whitepaper:

/knowledge/aluminium-concrete-balconies/[/sapphire_textBlock][sapphire_textOverlayBlock image=”12004″ heading=”Aluminum vs. Concrete Balconies” button_text=”Read more” button_link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Flocalhost%2Fbalconies%2Fknowledge%2Faluminium-concrete-balconies%2F|title:Aluminium%20vs%20Concrete%20Balconies” double_height=””]Read our full article demonstrating the differences between our innovative aluminum solution and traditional concrete.[/sapphire_textOverlayBlock][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row width=”70″ background_image=””][vc_column][sapphire_textBlock]

What’s next?

You asked, we answered. Sapphire have got the future-ready balconies that North America is after.

That’s it. No greenwashing, true carbon reduction and a lighter, safer, kinder product with more possibilities than ever before that we’re proud to call the Next Generation.

Are you ready to be part of the future of construction? The Next Generation is here and can be specified for your residential project today.

Contact us to find out even more:[/sapphire_textBlock][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row width=”70″ background_image=””][vc_column][vc_raw_html]JTNDZGl2JTIwY2xhc3MlM0QlMjJ3cGJfd3JhcHBlciUyMiUzRSUzQ2RpdiUyMGNsYXNzJTNEJTIydGV4dC1vdmVybGF5JTIwbWItNSUyMiUzRSUwQSUyMCUyMCUzQ2ZpZ3VyZSUzRSUwQSUyMCUyMCUyMCUyMCUyMCUyMCUyMCUyMCUyMCUyMCUzQ2RpdiUyMGNsYXNzJTNEJTIyaW1nLWZsdWlkJTIwcmVzcG9uc2l2ZS1pbWFnZSUyMiUyMHN0eWxlJTNEJTIyYmFja2dyb3VuZC1pbWFnZSUzQXVybCUyOGh0dHBzJTNBJTJGJTJGcmVzLmNsb3VkaW5hcnkuY29tJTJGc2FwcGhpcmUtYmFsY29uaWVzJTJGaW1hZ2UlMkZ1cGxvYWQlMkZ2MTY2MDcyNjk0OCUyRkNUQTFfa2lxaTVjLnBuZyUyOSUyMiUzRSUzQyUyRmRpdiUzRSUwQSUyMCUyMCUyMCUyMCUwQSUyMCUyMCUyMCUzQ2ZpZ2NhcHRpb24lM0UlMjAlMEElMjAlMjAlMjAlMjAlMjAlMjAlM0NoNCUyMGNsYXNzJTNEJTIyY2FyZC10aXRsZSUyMGJvbGQlMjIlMjBzdHlsZSUzRCUyMmZvbnQtc2l6ZSUzQSUyMDQ2cHglM0IlMjIlM0VHZXQlMjBpbiUyMHRvdWNoJTNDJTJGaDQlM0UlMEElMEElM0NwJTNFQ29udGFjdCUyMHVzJTIwd2l0aCUyMHlvdXIlMjBwcm9qZWN0JTIwZGV0YWlscyUyMHZpYSUyMG91ciUyMGVhc3klMjBvbmxpbmUlMjBmb3JtLiUzQyUyRnAlM0UlMEElM0NhJTIwY2xhc3MlM0QlMjJidG4lMjBidG4tc2Vjb25kYXJ5JTIyJTIwaHJlZiUzRCUyMmh0dHAlM0ElMkYlMkZsb2NhbGhvc3QlMkZiYWxjb25pZXMlMkZjb250YWN0LXVzJTIyJTIwdGFyZ2V0JTNEJTIyX2JsYW5rJTIyJTIwcmVsJTNEJTIyJTIyJTNFJTNDc3BhbiUzRUNvbnRhY3QlMjB1cyUyMHRvZGF5JTNDJTJGc3BhbiUzRSUzQyUyRmElM0UlMEElMEElMEElMjAlMjAlMjAlMjAlMjAlMjAlM0MlMkZkaXYlM0UlMEElMjAlMjAlMjAlMjAlM0MlMkZmaWdjYXB0aW9uJTNFJTBBJTIwJTIwJTNDJTJGZmlndXJlJTNFJTBBJTNDJTJGZGl2JTNFJTBBJTNDJTJGZGl2JTNF[/vc_raw_html][/vc_column][/vc_row]

What makes Sapphire’s Next Generation Balcony so exciting?

Posted on by sapphireadmin

[vc_row width=”70″ background_image=””][vc_column]

The Next Generation Balcony is here and it’s a huge step forward for the residential construction market. But what makes the Next Generation Balcony so exciting?

We’ve compiled our Top 5 reasons to get excited about the Next Generation Balcony – from the lightweight Cassette® to the design freedom offered, it’s time to put those old concrete finishings to rest and welcome a whole new way to add some ‘jewellery’ to your external envelope.

[/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row width=”70″ background_image=””][vc_column]

1.     Lighter

The Next Generation is lighter.

Thanks to innovative thinking and a lightweight framework, we’ve been able to significantly reduce the weight on your building’s structure, further reducing the risk of cold bridging in those bitterly cold winters! Thanks to our team of fantastic engineers, we’ve been able to optimize our balcony Cassette® and using the new Clip-On™ anchor, we’ve been able to reduce moment forces back to the building as low as 4kNm.

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2.     Safer

The Next Generation is safer.

Harness work at height can be scary as well as dangerous. Designing for the future means ensuring the safety of not only the end user but the installation team too. Thanks to our innovative Remote Locker Device (RLD), our Next Generation Balconies can be installed remotely, meaning an installation team never needs to step out onto an unguarded balcony edge. Our Next Generation Balcony brings robotics to the forefront and allows for a safer, more secure and swift installation.

[/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row width=”70″ background_image=””][vc_column]

3.     More Possibilities

The Next Generation has more possibilities.

We’ve increased not just the number of connection methods available with the Next Generation Balcony but increased the aesthetic freedom for your design and architecture team too. Thanks to our new Clip-On™ connection, the Next Generation Balcony clips into small hooks integrated into the façade just like a seatbelt. Furthermore, we’re proud to introduce the Crescent Corner Cassette®, Identité Balustrade and Crescent Balustrade as options for your balcony balustrade, each available in hundreds of colours for a total of over 7 million aesthetic combinations.

[/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row width=”70″ background_image=””][vc_column]

4.     Faster

The Next Generation is faster.

The Next Generation Balcony is able to out-perform concrete in speed nearly ten times over. As we demonstrated during The Balcony Showdown in Concord, Ontario in July of this year, when compared to a traditional concrete balcony alternative, the Next Generation Balcony (assisted by our innovative Remote Locking Device) was able to be lifted and installed ten times in the amount of time it took for a single concrete slab’s balustrading to be fixed in place. Our speed of installation means fewer hours spent on-site, fewer risks taken and fewer mistakes made for an overall better-performing balcony.

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5.     Kinder

The Next Generation is kinder.

There’s a lot to be said for being kind. From an act of goodwill to a neighbour to our company mantra – “Innovation to Prosper the Community” – being kinder has always been part of our DNA. The Next Generation Balcony is kinder to people, kinder to construction and kinder to the planet. By being the most sustainable balcony we’ve ever produced – a 19% reduction in CO2 across stages A1-A5 – we can commit to not only our ESG strategy (our Vision 2030 is available online) but also to a sustainable product that works both now and decades down the line.

You were wondering what makes the Next Generation Balcony so exciting and we’ve delivered. Our brand-new suite of improvements makes a Sapphire balcony lighter, safer, faster, have more possibilities than ever before and kinder to all.

To learn more about the Next Generation suite, click below.

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25/10/2023

The Next Generation revealed

Find out more

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What makes Sapphire’s Next Generation Balcony so exciting?

Posted on by Sajjad B

[vc_row width=”70″ background_image=””][vc_column][sapphire_textBlock]The Next Generation Balcony is here and it’s a huge step forward for the residential construction market. But what makes the Next Generation Balcony so exciting?

We’ve compiled our Top 5 reasons to get excited about the Next Generation Balcony – from the lightweight Cassette® to the design freedom offered, it’s time to put those old concrete finishings to rest and welcome a whole new way to add some ‘jewellery’ to your external envelope.[/sapphire_textBlock][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row width=”70″ background_image=””][vc_column][sapphire_carousel images=”13249,13250,13251,13252,13254,13253,13255″ notch=”true”][sapphire_textBlock]

1.     Lighter

The Next Generation is lighter.

Thanks to innovative thinking and a lightweight framework, we’ve been able to significantly reduce the weight on your building’s structure, further reducing the risk of cold bridging in those bitterly cold winters! Thanks to our team of fantastic engineers, we’ve been able to optimize our balcony Cassette® and using the new Clip-On™ anchor, we’ve been able to reduce moment forces back to the building as low as 4kNm.[/sapphire_textBlock][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row width=”70″ background_image=””][vc_column][sapphire_textBlock]

2.     Safer

The Next Generation is safer.

Harness work at height can be scary as well as dangerous. Designing for the future means ensuring the safety of not only the end user but the installation team too. Thanks to our innovative Remote Locker Device (RLD), our Next Generation Balconies can be installed remotely, meaning an installation team never needs to step out onto an unguarded balcony edge. Our Next Generation Balcony brings robotics to the forefront and allows for a safer, more secure and swift installation.[/sapphire_textBlock][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row width=”70″ background_image=””][vc_column][sapphire_textBlock]

3.     More Possibilities

The Next Generation has more possibilities.

We’ve increased not just the number of connection methods available with the Next Generation Balcony but increased the aesthetic freedom for your design and architecture team too. Thanks to our new Clip-On™ connection, the Next Generation Balcony clips into small hooks integrated into the façade just like a seatbelt. Furthermore, we’re proud to introduce the Crescent Corner Cassette®, Identité Balustrade and Crescent Balustrade as options for your balcony balustrade, each available in hundreds of colours for a total of over 7 million aesthetic combinations.[/sapphire_textBlock][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row width=”70″ background_image=””][vc_column][sapphire_textBlock]

4.     Faster

The Next Generation is faster.

The Next Generation Balcony is able to out-perform concrete in speed nearly ten times over. As we demonstrated during The Balcony Showdown in Concord, Ontario in July of this year, when compared to a traditional concrete balcony alternative, the Next Generation Balcony (assisted by our innovative Remote Locking Device) was able to be lifted and installed ten times in the amount of time it took for a single concrete slab’s balustrading to be fixed in place. Our speed of installation means fewer hours spent on-site, fewer risks taken and fewer mistakes made for an overall better-performing balcony.[/sapphire_textBlock][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row width=”70″ background_image=””][vc_column][sapphire_textBlock]

5.     Kinder

The Next Generation is kinder.

There’s a lot to be said for being kind. From an act of goodwill to a neighbour to our company mantra – “Innovation to Prosper the Community” – being kinder has always been part of our DNA. The Next Generation Balcony is kinder to people, kinder to construction and kinder to the planet. By being the most sustainable balcony we’ve ever produced – a 19% reduction in CO2 across stages A1-A5 – we can commit to not only our ESG strategy (our Vision 2030 is available online) but also to a sustainable product that works both now and decades down the line.

You were wondering what makes the Next Generation Balcony so exciting and we’ve delivered. Our brand-new suite of improvements makes a Sapphire balcony lighter, safer, faster, have more possibilities than ever before and kinder to all.

To learn more about the Next Generation suite, click below.[/sapphire_textBlock][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row width=”70″ background_image=””][vc_column][sapphire_blogContentLink post_id=”13182″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Sapphire’s Identité Balustrade brings creation to the forefront

Posted on by sapphireadmin

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Looking to add a personal touch to your balconies? Look no further – introducing the Identité Balustrade.

Adding your signature design onto the Identité Balustrade couldn’t be easier. Acting as a blank canvas, we’re able to engrave your design directly onto the aluminium sheet, creating patterns, geometry or even unique artistic designs. Say goodbye to cracking, crumbling concrete and hello to the most expressive balconies on the market – Sapphire’s Identité Balustrade.

Making your building different

We’ve all encountered balconies that seamlessly merge into the surrounding backdrop, almost fading from notice. While our ultimate aspiration remains rooted in creating balconies that serve a functional purpose, it’s crucial to acknowledge that this doesn’t mean your building can’t be infused with a captivating design, effortlessly drawing attention and curiosity from passers-by. The Identité Balustrade brings form and function together, allowing your building to stand out with a design of your choice.

Artistic freedom

If you can sketch it, we can etch it. The Identité Balustrade allows you to bring your design to life through the engraving of the aluminium balcony balustrades. The balustrades come in a variety of exciting colours, from a playful pop of yellow to a refined gunmetal, letting your inner artist free to explore a variety of ideas.

Wind resistance without glass

Thanks to the solid aluminium panel, the Identité Balustrade allows for effective wind resistance and improved privacy, especially when compared to a monolithic glass alternative. Wind resistance at higher storeys is incredibly important for structural integrity. Similarly to structural glass, the Identité Balustrade can act as a structural element and a barrier against the wind, able to take the impact of strong winds and guard the resident from the elements.

Further to this, privacy can also be improved with the Identité Balustrade. Thanks to the opaque sheet aluminium balustrade, residents can enjoy extra privacy on their balcony without the need for the designer to compromise on their vision to reduce inward visibility.

Creating identity

Creating a building that’s unique and stands out amongst the crowd means that by using the Identité Balustrade, you can put your mark on an inner-city development. Adding a personal touch to your balconies has never been simpler than with the Identité Balustrade. Bringing together function and form – wind resistance, privacy and artistic freedom – means that the Identité Balustrade could take your next residential project from something that fades into the background to a refined, exciting project with your design front and centre.

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Testimonials

“They’re looking really great. I’m particularly pleased with the detailing around the solid panel so thank you for helping us work through that.”

Architect – Pitman Tozer Architects

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