Construction Systems
Resource Library
A growing knowledge library covering the structural systems, waterproofing technologies and style systems used across modern construction projects. Covering ground screw foundations, steel frame structures, EPDM and liquid roofing systems, and composite cladding.
Forti Nova supplies these systems across Lancashire, Greater Manchester, Merseyside, West Yorkshire and the wider North West from our Blackburn depot and showroom.
Answers first
Start with the project question
These short answers explain the decision before you open the detailed guide. The right system depends on the project evidence, so use the linked guide or enquiry route when the roof, structure or finish needs a proper specification.
Which flat roof system is usually best?
EPDM is often practical for a straightforward new roof; liquid systems can suit refurbishment and detailed areas; large commercial roofs need a separate assessment.
Read the guideWhat should I do if water pools on a flat roof?
Check falls, outlets, drainage, the roof deck and the existing build-up before selecting a membrane. Ponding needs investigation.
Read the guideWhen is liquid rubber useful?
Liquid rubber can suit prepared refurbishment work and complex details where a seamless coating is appropriate.
Read the guideWhat is EPDM roofing?
EPDM is a synthetic rubber membrane used on compatible flat and low-slope roofs. The roof deck, sheet layout, joints, perimeter details and installation method all matter.
Read the guideHow long does EPDM roofing last?
Service life depends on the selected membrane system, exposure, detailing, installation quality and maintenance. Use the current manufacturer's documentation and warranty for the specified product.
Read the guideIs EPDM better than GRP?
Neither is universally better. EPDM is more flexible, while GRP forms a more rigid fibreglass surface; movement, roof geometry, detailing and the complete specification decide the fit.
Read the guideCan EPDM be repaired?
Usually, compatible repair materials can be used when the membrane and substrate are prepared correctly. Identify the damage and follow the selected system's repair guidance.
Read the guideWhat are ground screws used for?
Ground screws provide a foundation route for suitable structures when the ground conditions, loads and design allow them.
Read the guideHow much load can a ground screw carry?
There is no single universal capacity. Load depends on the screw, installation depth, ground conditions, spacing, structure and testing or engineering design.
Read the guideAre ground screws better than concrete?
That depends on access, ground conditions, loads, programme, drainage and the structural design. Compare the complete foundation solution rather than one headline feature.
Read the guideWhen does SprayGrade make sense?
SprayGrade is aimed at large commercial or industrial roof areas where access, preparation and the specified application method support it.
Read the guideWhat affects SprayGrade installation time?
Area, preparation, access, weather, detailing, substrate condition and the specified application thickness all affect the programme. Project assumptions need confirming.
Read the guideWhat is Prokol Monoseal?
Prokol Monoseal is a single-component polyurethane waterproofing coating. Suitability depends on the substrate, preparation, detailing and the current product specification.
Read the guideWhat is Prokol TopSpray35?
TopSpray35 is a spray-applied polyurethane system for specified waterproofing applications. Confirm the substrate, preparation, equipment and approved application route for the project.
Read the guideIs a steel frame better than timber?
Neither is automatically best. Span, loads, thermal and moisture design, programme, detailing and the intended building use determine the right structural system.
Read the guideWhat are steel frames used for?
Light-gauge steel frames can form structural walls and roof elements for suitable garden rooms, modular buildings and other designed structures.
Read the guideWhat is composite cladding used for?
Composite cladding is an external finish whose suitability depends on the building design, support system, detailing and product specification.
Read the guideIs composite decking low maintenance?
Composite decking generally needs routine cleaning and correct installation; boards, joists, drainage, ventilation and exposure still affect long-term performance.
Read the guideIs composite fencing better than timber?
Composite and timber have different costs, appearance, maintenance and installation requirements. Compare the complete fence system, including posts, ground conditions and fixing details.
Read the guideWhat do roofline and rainwater systems include?
Roofline work can include fascia, soffit, trims and ventilation; rainwater work includes gutters, outlets and downpipes. Compatibility, falls and discharge arrangements need checking together.
Read the guideWhat is PriviFilm?
PriviFilm is switchable privacy film for architectural glazing; the glass, power, control and installation requirements need checking for each project.
Read the guideHow much does an EPDM roof cost?
A reliable price depends on roof area, deck condition, insulation, edge details, access, drainage and whether supply-only or installation is required. A survey or complete project brief is the proper basis for a quote.
Read the guideCan EPDM go over an existing roof?
Sometimes, but only after checking the existing deck or membrane, moisture, adhesion, falls, edge details and system compatibility. The selected manufacturer's installation guidance and a site assessment decide the route.
Read the guideCan liquid waterproofing go over an existing roof?
Liquid systems can be suitable for some refurbishment projects, but the substrate must be sound, dry enough, prepared correctly and compatible with the specified system. It is not a universal overlay solution.
Read the guideWhat warranty comes with a roofing system?
Warranty terms are system-specific and depend on the product, specification, substrate, preparation and installation route. Use the written manufacturer or installer terms for the actual project rather than a generic promise.
Read the guideDo ground screws need concrete?
Not necessarily: a designed ground-screw system can avoid a full concrete slab. Ground conditions, loads, levels and the structural design may still require additional concrete or support in some projects.
Read the guideDo I need a site survey before choosing a system?
Often, yes. Roof or ground condition, dimensions, access, drainage, moisture and structural loads can change the correct specification. Photos and drawings can start the assessment, but they do not replace a survey where the risk is material.
Read the guideCan steel frames be insulated?
Yes, when insulation, thermal bridging, vapour control, lining and ventilation are designed as one build-up around the frame. The frame alone is not the complete wall or roof specification.
Read the guideCan composite cladding be used on a garden room?
It can be suitable as an external finish when the support, cavity, ventilation, moisture control, trims and fixing method are designed for the chosen product and building.
Read the guideCan PriviFilm be fitted to existing glass?
Possibly, subject to the glass type, access, size, surface condition, power route, controls and installation method. A glazing and electrical assessment is needed before confirming a retrofit.
Read the guideDo you deliver and install across the North West?
Forti Nova supports supply and installation enquiries across the North West, with the actual route depending on the system, location, scope, access, programme and approved contractor capacity.
Read the guideWhat should I send for a quote?
Send the location, dimensions, photographs, substrate or ground information, access constraints, drawings if available, the intended use and the required programme. That gives the technical team enough context to identify the right next step.
Read the guideWhat should I compare before choosing?
Compare the substrate, roof or wall geometry, movement, drainage, access, installation method, maintenance and the manufacturer's system requirements.
Read the guideBrowse Guides by System
Explore construction knowledge organised by system type. These guides help contractors, developers and building professionals understand the systems used across modern construction projects.
Structural Systems
Ground screw foundations, steel frame structures and structural installation guidance.
Topics include
Waterproofing Systems
EPDM roofing, liquid rubber waterproofing and spray-applied roof systems.
Topics include
Style Systems
Composite products, smart architectural film and exterior design systems.
Topics include
How to Use This Library
Start with broad comparison guides, then explore the Structural, Waterproofing or Style pillars for system-specific knowledge.
General Construction Guides
Explore broader construction guidance organised by topic. These comparison guides and technical articles help contractors, developers and property professionals understand different systems before selecting the most appropriate solution.
Structural Pillar
Structural Systems Knowledge
Technical guidance covering ground screw foundations, steel frame structures and structural installation systems. 7 guides in this section.
Waterproofing Pillar
Waterproofing System Knowledge
Technical guidance covering flat roof waterproofing, liquid rubber coatings, spray-applied roofing systems and commercial roof refurbishment. 11 guides in this section.
Liquid Rubber Waterproofing Systems
Spray-Applied Waterproofing Systems
EPDM Rubber Roofing Systems
Style Pillar
Style Systems Knowledge
Technical guidance covering composite products, exterior building systems and smart architectural film. 4 guides in this section.
Explore Forti Nova Divisions
Forti Nova Group is organised around three core divisions: Structural, Waterproofing and Style. Explore the systems behind the guides in our knowledge library.
Structural Systems
Ground screw foundations and steel frame structural systems used for modular construction and garden room installations.
Waterproofing Systems
EPDM roofing, liquid rubber membranes and spray-applied waterproofing technologies for flat roofs and commercial refurbishment.
Style Systems
Composite products and PriviFilm smart film for modern exterior design and architectural finishes.
North West Authority Hub
Construction Systems Across the North West
Forti Nova supplies structural systems, waterproofing materials and exterior finishes across the North West from our Blackburn depot. Regular supply areas include: Lancashire · Manchester · Liverpool · Leeds · Cheshire · Cumbria.
Whether you're looking for EPDM roofing in Lytham, composite cladding in Manchester or ground screw foundations in Preston — Forti Nova supplies modern construction systems across the North West.
Need Help Choosing the Right System?
If you're planning a garden room, extension or modular building, our team can help you choose the right structural systems, waterproofing materials and exterior finishes for your project.
Call us on
01254 433987Composite Supply Across the North West
Forti Nova supplies cladding, decking and fencing from Blackburn. Select a town hub for local collection and delivery context.
Blackburn
Cladding · Decking · Fencing supply
Preston
Cladding · Decking · Fencing supply
Manchester
Cladding · Decking · Fencing supply
Bolton
Cladding · Decking · Fencing supply
Wigan
Cladding · Decking · Fencing supply
Burnley
Cladding · Decking · Fencing supply
Lancaster
Cladding · Decking · Fencing supply
Warrington
Cladding · Decking · Fencing supply
Liverpool
Cladding · Decking · Fencing supply
Chorley
Cladding · Decking · Fencing supply
Accrington
Cladding · Decking · Fencing supply
Rochdale
Cladding · Decking · Fencing supply
Oldham
Cladding · Decking · Fencing supply
Stockport
Cladding · Decking · Fencing supply
Bury
Cladding · Decking · Fencing supply
Salford
Cladding · Decking · Fencing supply
Leigh
Cladding · Decking · Fencing supply
Skelmersdale
Cladding · Decking · Fencing supply
Browse the Library
Select a category to explore technical guides, comparison articles and system overviews.