Written by Nick Kent,
Project Director at Willmott Dixon Interiors
The RAAC challenge facing the country’s schools was a topic that dominated headlines in 2023 and 2024, quickly emerging as one of the UK’s most pressing building safety issues.
This is because RAAC panels were only ever designed to last around 30 years. With RAAC being widely used between the 1950s and 1990s, many buildings are starting to show their age, and in some cases, that can mean sudden structural failure.
Not only does the issue exist in the context of education, but RAAC has also been identified in hospitals, leisure centres, and civic buildings, making it a nationwide challenge for both safety and continuity of public services.
RAAC Removal or Reinforcement?
There are two approaches to RAAC remediation: removal or reinforcement. From its age and design to the level of deterioration, every building is different, so solutions need to be tailored. It’s not just about cost; it’s about safety, minimising disruption, and getting usable spaces back as quickly as possible.
RAAC Removal
This involves fully stripping out RAAC components and replacing them with modern, durable materials that meet current safety standards. Removal is often the preferred long-term solution where RAAC is extensive, degraded, or located in critical structural positions.
RAAC Reinforcement
Where removal is not immediately feasible, reinforcement provides a safe and efficient way to extend the asset’s lifespan. This can include installing timber or steel support systems, adding structural bracing, or integrating new protective layers to ensure the RAAC no longer bears load independently.
RAAC Solutions in Action
Our work at Hodge Hill College, Birmingham, is a prime example of complex RAAC remediation in a live environment with minimal disruption. Working on behalf of the Department for Education, our team delivered a 14-week programme to secure the school’s RAAC-affected areas while maintaining operational learning spaces.
Works included:
- Installing a bespoke timber lattice support system beneath existing RAAC roof planks – creating a safe and dependable structural solution.
- Replacing ceilings across key areas, including the kitchen, and delivering critical M&E upgrades such as new fire alarms and pipework.
- Enhancing building resilience through new fire safety systems, partitions and doorsets, ensuring full compliance with modern standards.
Specialist RAAC Expertise from Willmott Dixon Interiors
Willmott Dixon Interiors specialise in RAAC removal and reinforcement solutions shaped around the unique needs of each building. Additionally, we have proven experience in delivering complex projects, prioritising efficiency and minimising disruption.
As a founding member of ConcreteZero, we’re committed to supporting the UK’s transition to a low-carbon future; driving innovation in sustainable construction materials and methods, and delivering solutions that not only tackle today’s challenges but also support tomorrow’s climate goals.
Ready to tackle your RAAC challenge? Get in touch to discuss your project and find out how we can protect your spaces.