13,500m² of Sotech’s Optima TFC+ Through Fix Cassette system, fabricated from Novelis FF3 3mm pre-coated aluminium, has been used in the reclad of the Glasgow Harbour residential towers, replacing the non compliant material.
The replacement was part of a major recladding initiative to meet updated fire safety standards across the entire façade.
Superior fire safety in rainscreen cladding:
The Optima TFC+ system is a discrete fix, cost-effective solution that offers superior fire safety performance. Tested to BS 8414-2:2015 and classified to BR135, Optima TFC+ is an outstanding choice for high-rise applications.
It features mechanical, non-adhesive fixing methods, a drained and ventilated cavity, and is precision-engineered to eliminate build-up at panel joints. The system also integrates seamlessly with other façade elements and offers a full range of Euroclass A1 and A2-s1,d0 panel materials.
Corrosion resistant materials:
Panels were manufactured from Novelis FF3, a premium marine-grade 5000-series aluminium alloy offering enhanced corrosion resistance – essential for the riverside environment and proximity to salt water.
The material was supplied in four colours: Metallic Silver, Anthracite, Oyster White, and Polarmere Bleu, all finished in matt or metallic coatings, selected to match those in the original planning application.
Special attention was given to the use of Polarmere Bleu, due to sensitivities around Glasgow’s strong culture and footballing identities. A deliberate effort was made to ensure the shade was carefully balanced – respecting the locations Celtic heritage while preserving the design intent.
To ensure colour consistency and minimise waste, the Novelis FF3 material was batch ordered by elevation and zone. The carefully chosen colours interact beautifully with the light and water of the River Clyde, creating a shimmering visual effect that evolves throughout the day.
To provide additional assurance on fire safety, Novelis FF3 was tested to EN 13501-1 standards for each colour used on the project.
Rising to demanding installation conditions:
The project presented some of the most extreme wind load conditions ever encountered by the Sotech team, with localised wind pressures exceeding 3.0kPa. Our in-house engineering team carried out extensive F.E.M.analysis and design adaptations to meet these challenges, ensuring full compliance with CWCT standards and delivering long-term performance under highly demanding conditions.
Testimonials:
Mohamad Jenaban, Principal Technical Engineer at Sotech:
“This landmark project highlights the power of early collaboration and engineering-led design in overcoming even the most demanding site and performance challenges. By working closely with the client and contractor from the outset, we delivered a façade solution that is fully compliant, built to endure, visually iconic and expertly tailored to reflect the cultural identity and meet the technical demands of the Glasgow Harbour environment.“
Jamie Smith, Commercial Manager at Sotech:
“Walking the site and seeing families living in the towers throughout the process really brought home what this project was about. This wasn’t just abut replacing the cladding – it was about restoring trust, safety, and peace of mind for people in their own homes.”
With residences remaining in situ during the entire process, collaborative planning between Sotech, the main contractor, and building management ensured effective communication and minimal disruption to residents.
The façade was installed using mast climbers across multiple elevations which provided flexibility and ease for the installation team to work simultaneously . Traditionally however this can be challenging for tray systems as they require to be installed in sequence, this approach was made possible by adjusting the panel laying direction, introducing more flexibility in the installation process.
The reclad towers of Glasgow Harbour rise prominently along the banks of the River Clyde, forming a sleek and contemporary skyline that reflects beautifully on the water’s surface.
Glasgow Harbour reclads is a great example of the impact of early supplier involvement, collaborative planning, and precision engineering in delivering a safe, high-performance, and architecturally striking façade for a complex, live environment.
Project details:
Project name: Glasgow Harbour
Location: Glasgow
Sector: Residential
System: Optima TFC+
Charles Henshaw & Sons
RAINSCREEN FACADE Recladding and retrofitting:
In line with evolving fire safety regulations and heightened scrutiny of façade compliance – particularly following amendments to Approved Document B and Scottish Building Standards – Sotech has seen a significant increase in recladding and façade retrofit activity.
Our early-stage technical involvement, combined with a full system approach and in-house structural engineering support, allows us to deliver compliant, performance-led solutions for high-risk and high-rise developments.
Recent projects include the ICOSS Building in Sheffield, reclad with A1-rated anodised aluminium to replace non-compliant materials, and Queen Street Station in Glasgow, where the Optima FC+ system was used to achieve regulatory compliance without compromising design intent.
Glasgow Harbour stands as a benchmark project, demonstrating how rigorous testing (including BS 8414-2 and project-specific EN 13501-1 assessments), bespoke engineering to withstand wind loads exceeding 3kN, and careful logistical planning enable the safe delivery of complex recladding schemes in occupied, high-exposure environments.
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