The safety of our public structures has always been a primary concern, particularly those that
house our young learners. This becomes even more pressing when certain construction
materials, once deemed revolutionary, are now being questioned for their long-term viability.
The recent flurry of concerns regarding reinforced autoclave aerated concrete (Raac) brings this
issue into sharp focus.
The Raac Challenge
Originating from Sweden and extensively used in the UK from the 1950s through the 1990s,
Raac (also known as aerobar or aircrete) was heralded for its economical production, light
weight, and easy installation. Its “aerated” nature, marked by the absence of heavier fillers like
gravel or crushed stone, gave it its unique properties. However, this same advantage also came
with a limitation: a lifespan of roughly 30 years.
With Raac being predominant in roofing, walls, and floors of many schools and public
structures, it’s alarming to realize that many of these buildings might now be approaching, or
even exceeding, their recommended lifespan.
The Emergence of Concern
The sudden urgency surrounding the safety of Raac-infused structures surged just days before
the commencement of the new academic year. An alarming 156 schools were immediately
flagged for concerns related to this material. This sudden announcement had headteachers
scrambling for alternative accommodations, from temporary cabins to entirely new sites,
leading to a chaotic start for many.
However, it’s worth noting that the concern surrounding Raac isn’t entirely new. Alarm bells
were first rung more than 20 years ago, with the Department for Education (DfE) specifically
highlighting potential dangers in 2018, following a concerning incident in Kent where a Raac-
built roof collapsed.
The Demolition Focus
Given the current situation, the relevance and urgency of specialised demolition services, like
those provided by CJ Charlton Group Ltd, become paramount. While some buildings might only
have minor portions constructed with Raac – a storage room or a single classroom – others
have extensive use of the material and might require significant intervention.
Temporary solutions, such as propping up roofs, can be a short-term fix, but for a sustainable
and safe long-term solution, comprehensive assessment and potential demolition might be the
safest route. This would ensure that the structures housing our students and serving the public
aren’t just makeshift safe, but are fundamentally sound for the decades to come.
Moving Forward
With hundreds of buildings potentially affected, the challenges presented by Raac demand
immediate attention. While the initial chaos of the revelation might have settled, the journey
ahead is a long one. The situation underscores the necessity for proactive building assessments
and the expertise of demolition professionals.
At CJ Charlton Group Ltd, our commitment to safety and expertise in demolition places us at
the forefront of these efforts. As the situation continues to evolve, we’re poised to play a
pivotal role in ensuring that our public structures are not only safe but also stand the test of
time.
If you have any inquiries about our demolition services or would like to discuss your specific project requirements, please feel free to reach out to us.