ACO TECHNOLOGIES PLC - BUILDING DRAINAGE

ACO BUSINESS CENTRE
CAXTON ROAD
BEDFORD
BEDFORDSHIRE MK41 0LF

Tel: 01462 810400
Fax:

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Suppliers of: Internal and external drainage solutions, stainless steel floor drains, stainless steel gullies and channels, rainwater outlets, shower floor drains, bathroom and wet room floor drains, internal linear drainage channels, access covers, grease separators

ACO Building Drainage specialises in the development of corrosion resistant drainage systems and building products for applications across the internal and external built environments. Conceived to eliminate design risk, to optimise installation and to minimise lifetime ownership cost, every product in the range delivers exceptional levels of performance, finish and durability.

The technical expertise, global resources and fabrication capacity within the ACO Building Drainage division make it possible for architects, engineers and contractors to realise the highest quality and value when selecting from our standard products, or, when using our bespoke design service.

Indeed, whether you’re involved in designing or building a new project or upgrading an existing building, every aspect of the system must be carefully planned to meet the correct drainage requirements simply, quickly and within budget. Just call us for advice and help on the right system for your next project!

ACO BIM Files: This link will take you to the ACO BIM Library on the ACO website

Useful Resources:

  • Social Media: View ACO Building Drainage on Twitter / LinkedIn
  • Video: Access ACO Product Videos on YouTube

ACO Building Drainage’s extensive portfolio includes:

Wetroom & Shower Drainage Solutions

An extensive range of Wetroom products and shower drainage solutions.

Stainless Steel gullies

Choice of ranges for different applications: Fixed Height and Telescopic gully systems, EG150 Eurogully range, Rodding Eyes, Micro Floor Gullies and Bespoke gullies.

Standard Stainless Steel and Galvanised Steel Channels

Includes the Modular 125 stainless steel channel system and the Deckline 125 galvanized steel shallow invert drainage system.

ACO Pipe® Stainless Steel Pipework Systems

ACO PIPE® presents a wide range of socketed waste pipework systems in thin-wall stainless steel for above and below ground drainage applications.

ACO HygieneFirst

ACO HygieneFirst drainage systems fulfil the stringent hygienic requirements to minimise harmful bacteria and pathogen contamination of food arising from drainage elements by applying relevant hygiene design principles reserved for food contract surfaces

Roof & Balcony Drainage

Products include FreeDeck - Level Access Flat Roofs and Terraces Drainage Systems & Watertight Rainwater Outlets.

Drainage Design

Our engineers and designers can advise you on the right system to suit your project.

Grease Management Systems

The range includes mobile grease separators, gravity grease separators, grease recovery units and grease traps. Visit our website to use our grease selector to find the right unit for your needs.

Access Covers

Products include the Uniface or UniTop range of aluminium or steel access covers.

Blue/Green Roof Drainage

Our ACO RoofBloxx rainwater attenuation system is designed specifically as a green roof drainage layer for use on blue, green and blue/green roof construction applications. Please contact us to discuss project requirements and for support with hydraulic calculations.

Anti-flood Protection Systems

Anti-flood backflow valve systems, designed to prevent flooding resulting from sewer backflows. With models suitable for grey or black water applications, all systems are designed for reliable operation and long life.

 

Further technical information is available in the BPi download library or on the ACO Building Drainage website.

ACCESS COVERS Airports
ACCESS COVERS Airtight
ACCESS COVERS Aluminium
ACCESS COVERS Aluminium Anodized Finish
ACCESS COVERS Aluminium Custom Finishes
ACCESS COVERS Aluminium Purpose Made
ACCESS COVERS Aluminium PVC Edge
ACCESS COVERS Aluminium Surface Mounted
ACCESS COVERS Aluminium Tread Plate
ACCESS COVERS Block Paviour Infill
ACCESS COVERS BS EN 124
ACCESS COVERS BS EN 124 Class A15-F900 Loadings
ACCESS COVERS BS EN 124 Class B125 Loadings
ACCESS COVERS BS EN 124 Class C250 Loadings
ACCESS COVERS BS EN 124 Class D400 Loadings
ACCESS COVERS BS EN 124 Kitemarked
ACCESS COVERS Cable Outlet
ACCESS COVERS Drainage Doors
ACCESS COVERS Ductile Iron
ACCESS COVERS External
ACCESS COVERS FACTA Loading Classes A-F
ACCESS COVERS Fire Rated
ACCESS COVERS Fire Resistant
ACCESS COVERS Flexible Floor Finishes
ACCESS COVERS Flooring
ACCESS COVERS Galvanised Steel
ACCESS COVERS Galvanised Steel BS EN 124
ACCESS COVERS Galvanised Steel BS EN ISO 1461:1999
ACCESS COVERS Galvanised Steel Exterior
ACCESS COVERS Galvanised Steel Galvanised Stainless Steel Trim
ACCESS COVERS Galvanised Steel Recessed
ACCESS COVERS Galvanised Steel Solid Top
ACCESS COVERS Hard Floor Finishes / Infills
ACCESS COVERS Insulated
ACCESS COVERS Internal
ACCESS COVERS Lightweight Slim
ACCESS COVERS Modular Systems
ACCESS COVERS Multispan Units
ACCESS COVERS Natural Stone Floor Finishes
ACCESS COVERS Pan Covers .See Also PAN COVERS:
ACCESS COVERS Purpose Made
ACCESS COVERS Recessed
ACCESS COVERS Recessed for Block Paviors
ACCESS COVERS Recessed for Floor Finishes
ACCESS COVERS Security Covers
ACCESS COVERS Slip Resistant /Anti-Slip / Low Slip Surface
ACCESS COVERS Stainless Steel
ACCESS COVERS Stainless Steel Multi-Covers
ACCESS COVERS Stainless Steel Composite Double Sealed
ACCESS COVERS Steel
ACCESS COVERS Steel Purpose Made Fabrications
ACCESS COVERS Unfilled
ACCESS COVERS Vehicular
ACCESS COVERS Wood Floor Finishes / Infills
ACOUSTIC DRAINAGE PIPES Silent Drainage Low Noise Waste Pipes and Fittings
ANTI-FLOOD VALVES BS EN 13564 Types 0-5
ANTI-FLOOD VALVES Sewage Backflow Prevention
BALCONY Drainage Systems
BALCONY Floor Drains
BALCONY Rainwater Outlets
BATHROOM DRAINAGE Inset Drainage Trays Decorative Wooden Grates Incorporated
BATHROOM FLOOR DRAINS .See Also SHOWER DRAINS
BLUE ROOF SYSTEMS Green Roof Rainwater Attenuation
BLUE ROOF SYSTEMS Green Roof Rainwater Attenuation SUDS
BLUE ROOF SYSTEMS Modular Geocells Rainwater Attenuation
BLUE ROOF SYSTEMS Stormwater Attenuation Systems
BLUE ROOF SYSTEMS Stormwater Drainage Water Retention Drains
BLUE ROOF SYSTEMS SUDS
BRIDGE DECKING Drainage Systems
CABLE TROUGHS .
CATERING Organic Waste Management Systems
CATERING Waste Disposal Units
CHANNEL GRATINGS Composite Plastic
CHANNEL GRATINGS Linear Drainage Channels Stainless Steel
CHANNEL GRATINGS Plastic
CHANNEL GRATINGS Security Locking
CHANNEL GRATINGS Shower Stainless Steel
CHANNEL GRATINGS Stainless Steel
CHANNEL GRATINGS Stainless Steel Mesh
CHANNEL GRATINGS Stainless Steel Non-Skid
CHANNEL GRATINGS Surface Channel Loading Classes A-F
CHANNELS Aluminium
CHANNELS Stainless Steel Industrial
CHANNELS Stainless Steel Modular
CHANNELS Stainless Steel Purpose Made
CHANNELS Stainless Steel Shallow Channel
CHANNELS Stainless Steel Sloping
DECK Drainage Systems
DRAINAGE Backflow Valves
DRAINAGE Balcony Systems
DRAINAGE Bath-to-Wetroom Adaptors
DRAINAGE Rat Barriers
DRAINAGE Rodding Eyes EN 1253
DRAINAGE Rodding Eyes Interior
DRAINAGE Special Applications: Abbatoir
DRAINAGE Special Applications: Aggressive Environment
DRAINAGE Special Applications: Brewing
DRAINAGE Special Applications: Catering
DRAINAGE Special Applications: Chemical Industry
DRAINAGE Special Applications: Commercial Kitchens
DRAINAGE Special Applications: Food Processing
DRAINAGE Special Applications: Hygienic
DRAINAGE Special Applications: Industrial Process
DRAINAGE Special Applications: Laboratory
DRAINAGE Trench Stainless Steel
DRAINAGE CHANNELS Aggressive Substance
DRAINAGE CHANNELS Balcony
DRAINAGE CHANNELS Bridge
DRAINAGE CHANNELS BS 6367:1983
DRAINAGE CHANNELS BS EN 1433
DRAINAGE CHANNELS BS EN 1433:2002
DRAINAGE CHANNELS BS EN 1433:2002 CE Marked
DRAINAGE CHANNELS BS EN 1433:2002 Load Classes A-F
DRAINAGE CHANNELS Building Perimeter
DRAINAGE CHANNELS Curved
DRAINAGE CHANNELS Design Service
DRAINAGE CHANNELS DPC Damp Course
DRAINAGE CHANNELS Dual Level
DRAINAGE CHANNELS Fire Lift Installations
DRAINAGE CHANNELS Flat Roofs
DRAINAGE CHANNELS Galvanised Steel
DRAINAGE CHANNELS Heavy Duty
DRAINAGE CHANNELS Heelguard Tops
DRAINAGE CHANNELS Industrial Applications
DRAINAGE CHANNELS Lightweight: Loading Classes A-E DIN 19580 EN1433
DRAINAGE CHANNELS Line and Point Drainage Combined
DRAINAGE CHANNELS Linear Deck Drains
DRAINAGE CHANNELS Open Sided Systems
DRAINAGE CHANNELS Paved Areas
DRAINAGE CHANNELS Pedestrian Areas
DRAINAGE CHANNELS Pedestrian Areas Cycle Ways
DRAINAGE CHANNELS Purpose Made
DRAINAGE CHANNELS Roof Garden
DRAINAGE CHANNELS Slot Systems Stainless Steel
DRAINAGE CHANNELS Slot Systems Steel
DRAINAGE CHANNELS Stainless Steel
DRAINAGE CHANNELS Stainless Steel Austenitic Stainless Steel
DRAINAGE CHANNELS Stainless Steel Modular
DRAINAGE CHANNELS Stainless Steel Purpose Made
DRAINAGE CHANNELS Stainless Steel Radius Units
DRAINAGE CHANNELS Stainless Steel Shallow Channel
DRAINAGE CHANNELS Steel
DRAINAGE CHANNELS Steel Shallow Invert
DRAINAGE CHANNELS Terraces
DRAINAGE CHANNELS Threshold Drains
DRAINAGE CHANNELS Threshold Drains Level Access
DRAINAGE CHANNELS Tram Track
DRAINAGE CHANNELS Walkway
DRAINAGE GRATINGS Aluminium
DRAINAGE GRATINGS Composite
DRAINAGE GRATINGS Continuous Trench Trench Covers
DRAINAGE GRATINGS Curved Profile
DRAINAGE GRATINGS Stainless Steel
DRAINAGE GULLIES
ENTRANCE MATTING Stainless Steel
ENTRANCE MATTING Stainless Steel Matwell Assemblies
FLAT ROOF Drainage Systems
FLAT ROOF Drainage Systems Level Access
FLOOR ACCESS COVERS See Also ACCESS COVERS:
FLOOR ACCESS DOORS See Also ACCESS COVERS:
FLOOR CHANNELS Abattoir
FLOOR CHANNELS Balcony
FLOOR CHANNELS Breakwater Applications
FLOOR CHANNELS Chemical Plants
FLOOR CHANNELS Doorway
FLOOR CHANNELS FACTA Load Classes A-E
FLOOR CHANNELS Fire Lift Installations
FLOOR CHANNELS Fire Lift Installations BS 5588:1991 Part 5
FLOOR CHANNELS Food and Drink Processing
FLOOR CHANNELS Galvanised Steel
FLOOR CHANNELS Heavy Load
FLOOR CHANNELS Hospital
FLOOR CHANNELS Internal Walkway
FLOOR CHANNELS Internal Washdown Applications
FLOOR CHANNELS Kitchen
FLOOR CHANNELS Large Volume Discharge Capacity
FLOOR CHANNELS Purpose Made
FLOOR CHANNELS Shallow Invert
FLOOR CHANNELS Shower Room
FLOOR CHANNELS Slot Systems (No Grating)
FLOOR CHANNELS Stainless Steel
FLOOR CHANNELS Swimming Pool
FLOOR CHANNELS Wetroom Drainage Linear Channels
FLOOR CHANNELS Wetroom Drainage Linear Channels Stainless Steel
FLOOR DRAIN GRATINGS Anti-Slip
FLOOR DRAIN GRATINGS Anti-Slip BS 7976 Parts 1-3: 2002
FLOOR DRAIN GRATINGS Bathroom Gully
FLOOR DRAIN GRATINGS Bathroom Gully Decorative
FLOOR DRAIN GRATINGS Bathroom Gully Illuminated
FLOOR DRAIN GRATINGS Chrome Finish
FLOOR DRAIN GRATINGS Stainless Steel
FLOOR DRAIN GRATINGS Swimming Pool
FLOOR DRAINS
FLOOR DRAINS Adjustable
FLOOR DRAINS Aluminium
FLOOR DRAINS Anti-Flood
FLOOR DRAINS Backflow Stop
FLOOR DRAINS Backflow Stop BS EN 13564
FLOOR DRAINS Bathroom / Wetroom See Also SHOWER DRAINS
FLOOR DRAINS BS EN 1253
FLOOR DRAINS Car Park
FLOOR DRAINS Chemical Resistant
FLOOR DRAINS Cold Store
FLOOR DRAINS Commercial
FLOOR DRAINS Fire Spread Prevention Incorporated Fire Protection
FLOOR DRAINS Floating Floor
FLOOR DRAINS Linear Channel
FLOOR DRAINS Linear Channel BS EN 1253
FLOOR DRAINS Marine Applications
FLOOR DRAINS Odour Trap
FLOOR DRAINS Purpose Made
FLOOR DRAINS Rainwater
FLOOR DRAINS Stainless Steel
FLOOR DRAINS Stainless Steel Channel
FLOOR DRAINS Stainless Steel Purpose Made
FLOOR DRAINS Stainless Steel Rectangular
FLOOR DRAINS Stainless Steel Right Angle
FLOOR DRAINS Stainless Steel Square
FLOOR DRAINS Telescopic
FLOOR DRAINS Terrace
FLOOR DRAINS Vinyl Sheet Flooring
FLOOR DRAINS Yard
FLOOR GRATINGS .See Also GRATINGS:
FLOOR GULLIES Bathroom
FLOOR GULLIES BS EN 1253
FLOOR GULLIES Chemical Resistant
FLOOR GULLIES Commercial
FLOOR GULLIES Extra Low Profile
FLOOR GULLIES Fire Resistant EI 120-U/U
FLOOR GULLIES Industrial
FLOOR GULLIES Pumped
FLOOR GULLIES Shower
FLOOR GULLIES Stainless Steel
FLOOR GULLIES Vinyl Sheet Flooring
FLOOR GULLIES Wetroom
GRATING Accessories
GRATINGS Drainage
GRATINGS Mesh Stainless Steel
GRATINGS Metal
GRATINGS Purpose Made Designs
GRATINGS Rainwater Outlets
GRATINGS Safety Slip Resistant Anti-Slip
GRATINGS Shower Drain
GRATINGS Stainless Steel
GRATINGS Stainless Steel Pickle Passivated
GRATINGS Swimming Pool
GREASE SEPARATORS .
GREASE SEPARATORS ASME Approved (American Standard)
GREASE SEPARATORS Below Ground
GREASE SEPARATORS Biological
GREASE SEPARATORS BS EN 1825
GREASE SEPARATORS Freestanding
GREASE SEPARATORS Gravity
GREASE SEPARATORS Stainless Steel
GREEN ROOF SYSTEMS Drainage and Water Storage Elements
GREEN ROOF SYSTEMS Drainage Channels
GREEN ROOF SYSTEMS Filtration Layers
GREEN ROOF SYSTEMS Rainwater Management Systems
GREEN ROOF SYSTEMS SUDS
GULLIES Anti-Flood
GULLIES BS EN 1253 Part 2
GULLIES Cast Iron
GULLIES Chemical Plant
GULLIES Electropolished
GULLIES FACTA Load Classes A-E
GULLIES Fire Spread Prevention Incorporated
GULLIES Fire Spread Prevention Incorporated EN 13501 180 Minutes
GULLIES Food Processing
GULLIES Food Processing EN 1672
GULLIES Food Processing EN ISO 14159
GULLIES Gunmetal
GULLIES Industrial Areas
GULLIES Insulated
GULLIES Specialist Gully Fabricators
GULLIES Stainless Steel
GULLIES Stainless Steel Austenitic Stainless Steel
GULLIES Stainless Steel Pickle Passivated
GULLIES Swimming Pool
GULLIES Telescopic
GULLIES Water Sealed
GULLIES Wet Areas
GULLIES Yard
GULLIES Yard Paved Area
GULLY GRATINGS BS EN 124
GULLY GRATINGS Copper Alloy
GULLY GRATINGS Nickel Bronze
GULLY GRATINGS Stainless Steel
GULLY TRAPS EN 1253
LABORATORY Waste Fittings
LIFTING STATIONS Wastewater: Commercial
LIFTING STATIONS Wastewater: Domestic
LIFTING STATIONS Wastewater: EN 12050-1
MANHOLE COVERS (FRAME INCLUDED) For Ceramic Tiling
MANHOLE COVERS (FRAME INCLUDED) For Vinyl Flooring
MANHOLE COVERS (FRAME INCLUDED) Internal
MANHOLE COVERS (FRAME INCLUDED) Metal
MANHOLE COVERS (FRAME INCLUDED) Stainless Steel Recessed
OIL SEPARATORS BS EN 858-1-2
OIL SEPARATORS Bypass Separators
PARAPET DRAINS .See Also BALCONY: Drainage Systems
PIPE COUPLINGS Flexible
PIPE COUPLINGS Repair
PIPE FITTINGS Vacuum Lines
PIPE SEALS Wall Penetration Seals
PIPES Chemical Process Lines
PIPES Chemical Resistant
PIPES Chemical Waste Drainage Systems
PIPES Laboratory Waste
PIPES Stainless Steel
PIPES Stainless Steel BS EN 1124 Parts 1 and 2
PIPES Stainless Steel Food and Beverage Applications
PIPES Stainless Steel Marine and Offshore Applications
PIPES Stainless Steel Push-Fit
RAILWAY TRACK Drainage Achilles Link-Up, RISQS (Rail Industry Supplier Qualificatio
RAINWATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS Attenuation Systems Commercial
RAINWATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS Attenuation Systems Crates
RAINWATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS Attenuation Systems Flow Control Devices
RAINWATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS Attenuation Systems Green Roofs
RAINWATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS Attenuation Systems Modular Geocells
RAINWATER PIPES Stainless Steel
ROOF DRAINAGE Blue Roofs Water Retention Drains
ROOF DRAINAGE Systems
ROOF DRAINS See Also ROOF OUTLETS: Rainwater:
ROOF OUTLETS Rainwater
ROOF OUTLETS Rainwater Aluminium
ROOF OUTLETS Rainwater Aluminium BS 1490:1970
ROOF OUTLETS Rainwater Balcony
ROOF OUTLETS Rainwater BS 1490
ROOF OUTLETS Rainwater Car Park
ROOF OUTLETS Rainwater Cast Iron BS EN 877: 1999
ROOF OUTLETS Rainwater Deck Supports
ROOF OUTLETS Rainwater Domed
ROOF OUTLETS Rainwater Flat Roof
ROOF OUTLETS Rainwater Galvanised
ROOF OUTLETS Rainwater Gully
ROOF OUTLETS Rainwater Gunmetal
ROOF OUTLETS Rainwater Insulated Roof
ROOF OUTLETS Rainwater Inverted Roof
ROOF OUTLETS Rainwater Metal
ROOF OUTLETS Rainwater Refurbishment Renovation
ROOF OUTLETS Rainwater Screw
ROOF OUTLETS Rainwater Secure Grating
ROOF OUTLETS Rainwater Spigot
ROOF OUTLETS Rainwater Terrace Grates
ROOF OUTLETS Rainwater Two-Way
ROOF OUTLETS Rainwater Water Retention Drains (Blue Roofs)
ROOF TERRACE Drainage
ROOFING SYSTEMS Blue Roofs
SEPARATORS Bypass BS EN 858-1 and 2:2002
SEPARATORS Bypass Class I
SEPARATORS Bypass Class II
SEPARATORS Catering
SEWAGE Backflow Stops
SEWAGE Backwater Valves BS EN 13564
SEWAGE PIPES Backflow Valves
SHOWER CHANNEL Illumination
SHOWER CONSTRUCTION ELEMENTS Shower Flooring
SHOWER DRAIN Gratings
SHOWER DRAIN Gratings Barrier Free
SHOWER DRAIN Gratings Linear Channel Glass
SHOWER DRAIN Gratings Linear Channel Mineral
SHOWER DRAIN Gratings Linear Channel Stainless Steel
SHOWER DRAIN Gratings Shower Gully Slip Resistant
SHOWER DRAIN Gratings Shower Gully Stainless Steel
SHOWER DRAINS Aluminium
SHOWER DRAINS Aluminium Colourcoated
SHOWER DRAINS Barrier Free
SHOWER DRAINS Concrete Floor Installations
SHOWER DRAINS Corner Triangular
SHOWER DRAINS Floor Level Showers
SHOWER DRAINS Level Access
SHOWER DRAINS Linear Shower Channels
SHOWER DRAINS Linear Shower Channels BS EN 1253
SHOWER DRAINS Sheet Flooring Applications Flush Fitting
SHOWER DRAINS Stainless Steel
SHOWER DRAINS Timber Floor Installation Floating Floor
SHOWER DRAINS Wetroom Applications
SHOWER DRAINS Wheelchair Access
SHOWER FLOOR FORMERS Wet Floor Formers
SHOWER FLOORING Floor Level Shower Bases
SOIL PIPES and FITTINGS Acoustic Sound Insulated ,
SOIL PIPES and FITTINGS Acoustic Sound Insulated EN 14366
SOIL PIPES and FITTINGS Acoustic Sound Insulated Sound Absorbing Low Noise
SOIL PIPES and FITTINGS Couplings
SOIL PIPES and FITTINGS Couplings Cast Iron
SOIL PIPES and FITTINGS Couplings Cast Iron Push-Fit
SOIL PIPES and FITTINGS Couplings Stainless Steel
SOIL PIPES and FITTINGS Galvanised Steel DIN 1986 Part 4 Non Flammable
SOIL PIPES and FITTINGS Galvanised Steel Effluent-Resistant Grade Seal Incorporated
SOIL PIPES and FITTINGS Galvanised Steel EN 1123
SOIL PIPES and FITTINGS Manifolds Purpose Made
SOIL PIPES and FITTINGS Purpose Made
SOIL PIPES and FITTINGS Push-Fit
SOIL PIPES and FITTINGS Rat Barriers
SOIL PIPES and FITTINGS Stainless Steel
SOIL PIPES and FITTINGS Stainless Steel Acoustic BS EN 13466
SOIL PIPES and FITTINGS Stainless Steel BS EN 1124 Parts 1 and 2
SOIL PIPES and FITTINGS Stainless Steel Push-Fit
SWIMMING POOL Surface Drains
SWIMMING POOL Surrounds
TERRACE Drainage Systems
THRESHOLD Drains Level Access
TRAPS Foul Air Stench Traps
TREE GRILLES .
TREE GUARDS .
UNDERGROUND DRAINAGE Rat Barriers
UNDERGROUND DRAINAGE Trapped Floor Gullies
UNDERGROUND DRAINAGE PIPES Stainless Steel
WALL Kerbing
WALL Kerbing Stainless Steel
WALL GUARDS Kerbs Stainless Steel Kerbing
WALL GUARDS Stainless Steel
WASTE PIPES AND FITTINGS Acoustic EN 14366
WASTE PIPES AND FITTINGS Acoustic Sound Insulated Insulation Low Noise
WASTE PIPES and FITTINGS Chemical Waste
WASTE PIPES and FITTINGS Laboratory
WASTE PIPES and FITTINGS Push-Fit Joint
WASTE PIPES and FITTINGS Stainless Steel
WASTE PIPES and FITTINGS Stainless Steel Push-Fit
WATER FLOW CONTROLS Stormwater Management
WATER FLOW CONTROLS Vortex Systems
WETROOM DRAINAGE Concealed Wall Inlet
WETROOM DRAINAGE Floor Drains
WETROOM DRAINAGE Floor Drains BS EN 1253
WETROOM DRAINAGE Floor Drains Concealed Wall Inlet
WETROOM DRAINAGE Floor Drains Corner Triangular
WETROOM DRAINAGE Floor Drains Stainless Steel
WETROOM DRAINAGE Level Access
WETROOM DRAINAGE Linear Channel Systems
WETROOM DRAINAGE Linear Channel Systems BS EN 1253
WETROOM DRAINAGE Sheet Flooring Applications
WETROOM DRAINAGE Tiled Flooring Applications
ACO DECKLINE Shallow Invert Surface Drainage Channel
ACO DRAINMAT Stainless Steel Entrance Matwell Assemblies
ACO EASYFLOW Bathroom Gully Systems
ACO FREEDECK Surface Drainage Channels
ACO FREESTYLE Channel Gratings
ACO GM-X Galvanised Steel Pipes
ACO GMX Galvanised Steel Pipes
ACO GREASE CAPTURE Grease Separators
ACO HP Rainwater Outlets
ACO HYGIENEFIRST Channel Drainage Systems
ACO JUNIOR Backflow Floor Drains
ACO LIGHTPOINT Gully Illumination Kits
ACO LIPOMOBILE Grease Separators
ACO LIPUJET Grease Separators
ACO LIPUMAX Grease Separators
ACO LIPUSMART Grease Management Systems
ACO MOBILE Grease Separators
ACO MODULAR 125+ Stainless Steel Drainage Channels
ACO MONOBLOCK Drainage Channels
ACO MONODRAIN Drainage Channels
ACO MULTIDRAIN MONOBLOCK Drainage Channels
ACO PIPE Stainless Steel Pipes
ACO QMAX Slot Drainage Channels
ACO QUATRIX Anti-Flood Valves
ACO ROOFBLOXX Blueroof Rainwater Attenuation Systems
ACO SHOWERDRAIN Stainless Steel Linear Floor Drains
ACO TOTALFLOW Gully Systems
ACO TRIPLEX Anti-Flood Valves
ACO UNIFACE Recessed Access Covers
ACO UNITOP Access Covers
ACO WASTE JET Catering Organic Waste Management Systems
ACOTEX Infiltration Geotextiles
ACOTEX PLUS Roofing Membrane Protection Fleece
ALUCOVER Recessed Aluminium Access Cover
APLEX Wall Seals
CHAIN Gully Gratings
CURL Gully Gratings
EASY-CLEAN Stainless Steel Floor Drains & Channels
EUROCOVER Access Covers
EUROGULLY Stainless Steel Floor Gully
FLAG Gully Gratings
FOREST Gully Gratings
FULBORA Floor Drains
HAWAII Gully Gratings
HEELSAFE Channel Gratings
HYDROJET Grease Separators
INTERCEPT Gully Gratings
LIGHTLINE Shower Channel Illumination
LINEA Gully Gratings
MICRO Floor Gully
MINISLOT Internal Drainage Channels
PALM Gully Gratings
PIPE Stainless Steel Pipes
PIXEL Gully Gratings
QUADRATO Gully Gratings
QUICKLOCK Grating Lock
VIENITE Polymeric Based Recycled Material
VINYL SEAL Internal Drainage Channel Seal
WALK-IN Bathroom Drainage Trays with Wooden Grates
WAVE Gully Gratings
WEIR Gratings

ACO Bld Drainage: The Crucial Role of Blue Roofs in Mitigating UK Water Shortages

February 2025

As the UK faces increasing water scarcity, innovative water management solutions are essential. Blue roofs, which temporarily store and gradually release rainwater, offer a sustainable method to manage stormwater, reduce sewer system stress, and conserve water. Here, Neill Robinson-Welsh, consultant at ACO Building Drainage, explores the significant impact of blue roofs on addressing water shortages.

Blue Roofs: An Overview

Blue roofs are advanced drainage systems designed to temporarily hold rainwater and release it slowly, unlike traditional roofs that quickly drain water. These systems help manage stormwater runoff, particularly in dense urban environments, decreasing the risk of flooding and easing the load on sewer systems. This capability is particularly important as urban areas continue to expand and climate change increases the volume of stormwater.

Integral to urban climate resilience, blue roofs diminish the risk of flash floods and mitigate drought effects. When combined with green roofs, where vegetation is planted and sustained by the stored rainwater, blue roofs also alleviate the urban heat island effect, providing cooling and improving environmental conditions in cities.

The UK's Water Shortage Challenge

The UK is already experiencing water stress in regions such as the south and east, with projections indicating that by the mid-2030s, water demand will exceed supply unless substantial infrastructure improvements are made. Cities like Cambridge and Oxford are struggling with inadequate water and sewage systems, which impede housing development and economic growth. Since the privatisation of water services in 1989, underinvestment has left the UK's water infrastructure poorly equipped to handle rising demand and manage stormwater effectively.

Throughout 2024, urban sewer systems have frequently been overwhelmed during heavy rainfall, leading to combined sewer overflows (CSOs) where untreated sewage spills into rivers and seas. Blue roofs support this issue by retaining rainwater on-site and releasing it gradually, thereby lowering the volume of water entering already stressed sewers. This proactive approach aids in the prevention of CSOs and environmental damage, offering a sustainable solution to the growing problem of sewer system overload.

The Potential of Blue Roofs

Blue roofs are pivotal for managing stormwater by controlling runoff and preventing flooding. By retaining rainwater, they lessen the immediate burden on sewer systems, which is essential during heavy rainfall events.

In addition to managing stormwater, blue roofs support water conservation efforts. Captured rainwater can be used for irrigation, which is particularly important given the UK's increasing water scarcity. This reuse of rainwater minimises reliance on conventional water supplies and promotes self-sufficiency for buildings.

Incorporating blue roofs allows cities to foster more sustainable and resilient urban landscapes, better prepared to address the challenges posed by climate change. In addition to managing water effectively, blue roofs promote biodiversity and contribute to enhancing the overall quality of life in urban areas.

Design and Integration Factors

For blue roofs to function effectively, meticulous design and seamless integration are essential. Critical considerations include the roof's slope, the positioning of outlets, and the choice of suitable attenuation systems. ACO provides the only solution currently available that is specifically engineered to operate independently of the roof's waterproofing and drainage infrastructure, enabling precise water retention management.

For instance, the modular design of ACO RoofBloxx facilitates straightforward maintenance and ensures reliable performance over time, even under severe weather conditions. This system is also fully compliant with building regulations, enabling roofs to efficiently manage stormwater while enhancing the overall resilience of the structure. By retaining water and controlling runoff without compromising the roof’s structural integrity, ACO RoofBloxx units are well-suited for contemporary buildings in regions likely to face water scarcity.

The Role of Construction Professionals

Architects, specifiers, and contractors play a pivotal role in incorporating blue roofs| into the UK’s urban infrastructure. Embracing blue roof systems can alleviate strain on sewer networks, support water conservation, and strengthen urban resilience. These systems should be regarded as a fundamental component of infrastructure modernisation, offering a proactive and sustainable solution to the UK’s water management challenges.

Article originally published in RCI Magazine January 2025

ACO Building Drainage - Five Tips for Effective Blue Roof Design

November 2024

Stormwater management and flooding pose significant risks in urban settings. Blue roofs have evolved as an innovative technique for storing rainwater, decreasing flood hazards and supporting sustainable development. However, misconceptions about blue roofs can cause design issues. Kevin Bohea, Manging Director of ACO Building Drainage, shares five recommendations for de-risking blue roof projects.

1. Understand what a blue roof really is
It should be noted that blue roofs are not actually roof waterproofing systems: they are separate attenuation systems intended to temporarily hold rainwater and slow its discharge, reducing urban flood hazards. Recognising this distinction is critical for good design and integration with modern construction methods.


2. Separate blue and traditional roofs
A popular misconception is that blue and conventional roofs are the same system. Blue roofs are intended to hold and keep water, whereas standard roofs aim for quick water removal. Separating these systems prevents design compromises and assures compliance with British Standards and Building Regulations. ACO’s blue roof system keeps water away from the roof and off of the waterproofing layer except in extreme cases, meaning the risk of unwanted water ingress is kept to an absolute minimum.


3. Address key design considerations early
It’s important to address the number, placement, and size of roof outlets, roof fall gradient, kind of roof construction, and time period for water retention of a roof system at the design stage. These elements are required for both the roofing and blue roof attenuation systems to function properly.


4. Mitigate risks with independent systems
Considering blue roofs and traditional roofs as independent systems means any risks associated with design compromises can be mitigated early on. This approach ensures sustainable drainage and prepares for worst-case weather scenarios, enhancing overall building resilience.


5. Selecting the Right Attenuation System
The biggest challenge is knowing which attenuation system to select as part of the project. It is recommended that a blue roof attenuation system, that keeps form and function distinct, should be adopted. Systems like ACO’s RoofBloxx, for example, operate independently of the roof waterproofing and drainage system, ensuring compliance with building standards. They also ensure efficient water management during extreme weather events. Given how frequent extreme weather conditions appear to be happening across the UK, this couldn’t be more important.


What’s next?
Architects and designers have a crucial role to play in the implementation of blue roofs. From ensuring they are designed to meet the regulations, to determining the full environmental benefits when assessing any potential future impacts, architects will be pivotal in integrating these systems into infrastructure.


By following these tips, and working closely with the manufacturers themselves, architects and engineers can effectively de-risk blue roof projects and contribute to sustainable urban development.

Contact : abdmarketing@aco.co.uk

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