NEC, Birmingham

Client

NEC

Location

Birmingham

Specification of Work

Comprehensive Wall Cladding Refurbishment

Overview

The NEC in Birmingham is one of Europe’s premier event venues, hosting over 500 events annually and welcoming around 2.4 million visitors each year.

Originally constructed in 1976, sections of the NEC’s external cladding had become visibly aged, with peeling coatings and declining aesthetic quality. Roofclad Systems was appointed to deliver a comprehensive wall cladding refurbishment across multiple rear-of-house elevations, which included Halls 3A, 4, 5 and the Gardens.

The objective was clear: enhance visual appeal, protect the existing structure, and deliver a cost-effective solution with a substantial lifespan.

The Challenge

The project presented several technical and logistical challenges:

Aged substrate: Existing Galbestos-coated steel cladding containing a low-risk asbestos-based coating
Strict compliance requirements: All works carried out in line with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 and HSE guidance
Complex façade obstructions: Including heating ducts, ventilation louvres, and legacy signage rails
Live environment considerations: Maintaining safety and minimal disruption within an operational, high-traffic venue

In addition, careful drilling and fixing methods were essential to ensure safe handling of the existing material while maintaining structural integrity.

Our Solution

Roofclad Systems implemented a fully compliant overcladding solution, designed to encapsulate the existing substrate and minimise disturbance:

Comprehensive toolbox talks and safety protocols for all operatives
Segregated working zones to protect NEC staff and visitors
Installation via scaffold access systems to ensure safe working at height
Careful overcladding of existing Galbestos panels, avoiding unnecessary removal

A new single-skin profiled metal cladding system was installed, using support rails fixed directly to the existing façade.

Key elements included:

Installation of Kingspan KS1000RW 45mm panels with black plastisol finish
A two-colour façade design (graphite and silver) with angled overlapping sheet ends for visual impact
Single-colour graphite cladding to inward-facing elevations
Replacement of 3m high glazed eaves panels with insulated composite cladding
Low-level concrete panel painting to complete the façade upgrade

Where obstructions remained, bespoke solutions such as duct extensions and tailored panel adjustments ensured a precise fit and clean finish.

The Outcome

The completed project delivered a significant visual transformation while enhancing durability and protection:

Modernised, aesthetically striking façade aligned with the NEC’s status as a leading venue
Extended lifespan of the building envelope with minimal disruption to existing materials
Fully compliant solution managing the risks associated with ACM-containing substrates
A cost-effective refurbishment meeting the client’s long-term performance goals

Client Testimonial

“Roofclad Systems delivered a high-quality cladding solution that has significantly improved the appearance of our facilities while meeting all safety and compliance requirements. The team managed the complexities of the project professionally, ensuring minimal disruption throughout.”
– Steven Willis, NEC Group