Continuous Technical Innovation
Meridian Homes® is committed to continuous development. In this section, we highlight several proprietary developments and innovations which span new building sub-systems and components. These arose from our interest in technical reviews, and many of the improvements have been adopted as part of the Meridian Homes® standards.
Very often, technical reviews are done for largescale buildings due to their obvious commercial impact. This has led to a paucity of such analyses for the smaller Singapore landed property market…until now. We are particularly proud that our pioneering product developments are injecting new life into an otherwise ‘sunset’ industry.
As innovations continue to come on-stream in the coming years, they will be included in our Meridian Homes® catalogues and website. The following is a sampling of the products which we have introduced to our projects.
Sections
2nd Roof®
What it does
2nd Roof® greatly enhances the performance of many types of roof, to a point where the main roof can be treated as an aesthetic treatment and the water-tight performance required of a roof is left to the 2nd Roof® system.
How it works
- Almost totally eliminates water penetration caused by puncture of barriers
- Extremely low U-values can be achieved by adjusting or employing optional insulation methods including air, polyurethane, radiant barrier.
Remarks
The full system carries a 30-year unconditional warranty. 2nd Roof® is incorporated as a standard feature in all Meridian Homes® projects from 2006. It is not available as an after-market system, though this possibility is currently under review.
Acoustik-Door®
What it does
This is not a ground-breaking development but it does have wide appeal because it employs simple techniques to enhance the conventional door as a sound barrier.
How it works
It employs the use of dense materials in a 2-inch (44mm) format, and uses specially-developed details.
Remarks
Acoustik-Door® is incorporated as a standard feature in all Meridian Homes® projects from 2006. A more upmarket original development in 2007 could see a more robust type of acoustic door which involves tapping the kinetic energies in the action of opening a door, and using self-maintained mechanisms.
Silent-Flo® Drain
What it does
It eliminates the sound of trickling water commonly heard when a full sink or shower is drained.
How it works
By using the basic principles of plumbing and draining process, two prototypes – an after-market product, and embedded product to be incorporated during construction – are undergoing testing in the first half of 2006.
Remarks
The product will have particular appeal to upmarket developments like hotels and condominiums. Silent-Flo® Drain is expected to be a standard feature in all Meridian Homes® projects from 2007.
Mould-Free® Grouts & Joints
What it does
It addresses the common problem of accumulated grime, dirt, and mould in ceramic tile joints and silicon joints in toilets, kitchen and other areas.
How it works
It employs the use of additives and chemicals available from leading global manufacturers in the installation of various works during the building process.
Remarks
Mould-Free® Grouts & Joints is incorporated as a standard feature in all Meridian Homes® projects from 2004.
Damp-Free® Floor & Wall
What it does
This patented system brings together various individual solutions to common construction problems which result in dampness in ground floor slabs and walls of landed properties.
How it works
The system is put in place in the early stages of construction, effectively preventing rising dampness which may result in the disintegration of concrete, plaster and other architectural finishes over a short duration. Unfortunately, in particularly poor drainage or high water table areas, this disintegration process can begin soon after construction, but be physically evident only after a few years.
It must employ chemical and physical barriers, careful detailing and close ground level supervision and inspection to be effective.
Remarks
Damp-Free® Floor & Wall is incorporated as a standard feature in all Meridian Homes® projects from 2004.
CertifiedFit®
What it does
CertifiedFit® is a wide-ranging audit process which assesses many situations from pre-purchase inspection (Building Hazard Analysis) to prehandover audit.
How it works
Currently available in the open market in the form of Building and Hazard Analysis, it is suitable for home-owners who intend to purchase a landed property, but are unsure of salient information like the condition of the building, its location and history, and/or costs to replace building systems like plumbing, electrics etc. This system also assesses the costs related to extension and alteration works required (refer to page 13 for details).
Remarks
The comprehensive audit process system is offered as an independent/optional service from 2006.