The success of the project was in part attributable to the support and guidance given by Wienerberger’s Porotherm Technical team and masons not only at project start but throughout the build. It was also confirmed that customer service from Wienerberger was excellent with all deliveries on time and no issue with lead times. Due to Porotherm’s performance regarding thermal, strength and density, one block type suited all requirements which helped, given storage space constraints on a very tight site. The use of the system’s bagged ZeroPlus thin joint mortar also removed the need for mortar silos. 1,450m2 of PTH 100 Porotherm blocks and 136 bags of ZeroPlus mortar were used on the project.
Blockwork contractors Lambert Walker, who were using Porotherm for the first time, were pleased with the product and immediately identified its potential, as the elevations mainly constructed out of Porotherm block were constructed extremely fast due to ease of application, the quick setting properties of the mortar and no limitation to build height on each lift. It was also commented that the build process was a lot cleaner process than usual with no usual mortar droppings. They were also pleased with the ability to use one-handed lifts on the blocks and load scaffold out more than that allowed using traditional concrete blocks.
Project Manager, Chris Murphy further commented,“Given my experience of using Porotherm on this very challenging build, I would have no doubts in using it in future projects for John Turner“.
The new building includes a library, a refectory, a conference room, hospitality suite in the Deaner, offices for the Cathedral and a NW Adoption Agency, an enclosed Cloister garth, an underground car park, 4 town houses for the Dean, Cathedral Canons and Director of Music, 6 apartments for Cathedral staff and 6 shared accommodation units for organ scholars.
