Effective shrink-wrap construction screens over 4 floors at Oxford University

 Its scale and ambition have meant that planning, logistics and construction innovations are central to its success. One key innovation has been the use of shrink‑wrap construction screens. When Wates was awarded the contract to build LaMB, they contacted Tufcoat to develop a strategy for enclosing the reinforced concrete frame with shrink‑wrap construction screens during construction.

 

The new facility, was set to accommodate two major departments; the Department of Biology and the Department of Experimental Psychology, providing space for approximately 800 students and 1,200 researchers. Given its size and complexity, timely procurement and installation of weatherproofing and containment systems have been critical.

 

Wates required the supply and installation of shrink‑wrap construction screens on multiple floors within the building shell. By installing the weatherproofing shrink‑wrap construction screens early, internal fit‑out work could commence sooner than originally planned, helping to keep the gigantic project on schedule and avoid costly delays.

 

Tufcoat developed a detailed plan to install shrink‑wrap construction screens over four floors (from the ground up to the third floor) of the Life and Mind Building. The plan had to take account of large, exposed perimeters, variable heights, limited access and the necessity of maintaining working conditions even in adverse weather.

 

The Tufcoat team completed the installation in two main stages. The first fix involved pre‑drilling the concrete frame to install the timber fixings; the second fix involved hanging and securely tensioning the flame‑retardant shrink‑wrap. Each of the four floors possessed a perimeter of approximately 112 metres with heights varying between 3.5 and 4.5 metres. These variable heights meant that each floor demanded slightly different approaches to installation, fastening and tensioning of the shrink‑wrap materials.

 

One of the biggest logistical challenges was the absence of a hoist meaning all materials and equipment had to be moved via crane. That introduced an extra layer of planning: crane time is in high demand on big construction sites, so scheduling these lifts at least 48 hours in advance was essential. Without that rigorous coordination, delays or downtime could compromise the installation of shrink‑wrap construction screens, which in turn could delay internal works.

 

Barry Kirkham from Tufcoat, commenting on the shrink-wrap construction screens;

“Despite the challenging environment, we delivered the project on time whilst the construction project evoloved around us. Thanks to the shrink-wrap construction screens install, portions of the internal fit-out began earlier than initially planned, with external works carried out by the cladding contractor progressing unhindered due to the positioning of the screens. It was a win-win situation for the construction teams.”

The benefits of using shrink‑wrap construction screens at LaMB have been substantial. These screens provided a weatherproof enclosure early in the construction timeline, interior tasks such as mechanical and electrical installations, finishing work, plumbing and joinery could begin ahead of the usual schedule. They also allowed external contractors working on cladding and façade systems to proceed without waiting for perfect weather and reduced risk of water ingress or exposure to moisture which can damage finishes or structure.

The project underscores how shrink‑wrap construction screens are not merely a protective layer, but a vital tool in large‑scale construction and project management. For the University of Oxford these screens have done more than shelter, they’ve enabled accelerated progress, safeguarded quality and contributed to cost control. 

The early installation of shrink‑wrap construction screens is likely to be looked back on as one of the key strategic successes in delivering one of the UK’s most significant new academic buildings.