THE INCREDIBLE FOUR: INNOVATIVE PRODUCTS

Park structures aren’t what they used to be; they have been transformed from what they were 30 years ago.

Four specific technologies developed in recent times are among many developments that have changed the face of open space structures.

Today, thanks to these innovations and others, we can build structures quicker that are stronger, longer lasting, and deliver their intended purpose with greater efficiency and less environmental impact. Not only that but they also look good at the same time. 

ACM | Aluminium Composite Material

Superpower: Amazing finish for reasonable price

Before this product came on the scene, designers with an eye for the sensational who wanted to create structures of true distinction, often needed to increase the budget significantly with structural flourishes that were fraught with risky manoeuvres.

By using Aluminium Composite Material (ACM) there are unlimited possibilities to greatly enhance the exterior of any building at a reasonable price and with little risk.

ACM is made up of a thermoplastic polyethylene centre, fortified between two external aluminium sheets, giving an exceptionally lightweight, smooth and solid, unbending finish.

The aluminium composite sheets can be covered with various coatings to give a multitude of finishes – from metallic through to wood and marble.

Extremely lightweight, ACM is also fire-, weather- and chemical-resistant, and enjoys significant noise and thermal insulation properties. Consider it part superhero part supermodel.

Depending on the finish needed, it can be fixed to the structure by screws, rivets or even using industrial strength glue to two-sided tape.

SIP | Structured Insulated Panel

Superpower: Uncomplicated, easily installed insulated roofing

By the time the trucks carrying the corrugated iron roof, trusses, ceiling panels and insulation arrive, you could have taken delivery of the Structured Insulation Panel (SIP) to achieve the same end.

SIP is all those materials wrapped up into one cool, lightweight package, which comes in a multitude of colours and roof profiles.

With a polystyrene core, SIP insulates against heat from above, greatly improving comfort under the roof on hot days.

The polystyrene is sandwiched between the roof’s profiled, coloured steel topside and its easy-clean, smooth ceiling underside; a combination which also provides noise softening properties. It comes in three thickness sizes.

SIP, being a steel product, is exceptionally strong and can span up to seven metres. This means fewer supporting structures and a clean, uncluttered finish.

Electrical wiring for fans and lights is easily hidden within the inbuilt rebate channel.

For open space structures, such as restrooms, SIP comes to the rescue for those looking for quick construction and attractive finish on a budget.

FRP | Fibre Reinforced Plastic

Superpower: Virtually indestructible

The Fibre Reinforced Plastic (FRP) could be called the “Superman” of building products, but alas – it has no kryptonite equivalent.

FRP, which Landmark Products often uses for steps and landings in pedestrian access structures, can be exposed to continuous submersion, splashes, spills, fumes or gases of multiple types of liquids and chemicals – and still maintain its integrity. OK so it has some limitations. Request the comprehensive chemical resistance guide available for the full list of detailed information.

In the past, timber presented the most popular option for outdoor pedestrian access structures, requiring high levels of maintenance with a relatively short replacement lifespan. FRP also weighs considerably less than timber, making installation (and removal) far easier and cheaper.

FRP products will not rust, corrode or fade, and therefore do not require painting, sandblasting or continuous replacing. Special UV inhibitors are integral to the products, meaning they will withstand the sun, even in Australia's harsh environment.

FRP has far too many benefits over its alternatives to name here. So, to cut a long story short, its benefits include: non-magnetic, impact resistant, non-sparking, non-conductive, non-slip, superior strength, cost saving, fire resistant, temperature performance, electromagnetic transparency and anti-static.

LVL | Laminated Veneer Lumber

Superpower: Span wide areas without warping

You need a load-bearing beam to span over six metres that also needs to be nailed and screwed and is positioned in a high corrosive area, which makes steel unsuitable. Perhaps it is for a rafter in a large restroom or for an extensive park shelter. Who do you call? LVL!

Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL) is a high-strength engineered wood product comparable in strength to solid timber, concrete and steel, and is used for permanent structural applications, including beams, lintels, purlins, truss chords and formwork.

It is manufactured by bonding together rotary peeled or sliced thin wood veneers under heat and pressure. Prior to lamination the veneers are dried and the grains are oriented in the same direction. This makes LVL stronger, straighter and more uniform than solid timber and overcomes some of timber's natural limitations such as strength-reducing knots.

LVL can be used in place of sawn timber, and one of its main advantages is that it can be manufactured to almost any length, restricted only by transportation to site.

The added durability of being an engineered wood product means LVL is less prone to shrinking or warping. LVL can also support heavier loads and span longer distances than normal timber – perfect for roof trusses, framing and timber portal frames.