ThermoneX specialises in the supply of basement lightwells, ventilation shafts and grills to the UK construction industry.

 MEAMAX and MULTINORM Lightwells

 grills at ground level set into paversLightwell grill at ground level

 MEA lightwells are basically GRP mouldings that securely fix to the exterior of the basement wall. They channel light and ventilation from the finished ground level down to the aperture in the basement.

To select the lightwell required, first consider if you would prefer a MEAMAX or a MULTINORM lightwell. What's the difference?

The MEAMAX is only available at a depth of 400mm. ‘Depth’ in this context means the horizontal distance measured from the face of the building across the ground or pavement. If a deeper 600mm or 700mm unit is required, please see the Multinorm Selection

MEAMAX  SELECTION. 

Step 1. Decide on the width of the basement aperture you have or intend to have. MEAMAX units are available in three different widths of 800, 1000 and 1250mm.

Step 2. Determine the vertical height measured down from finished ground level to a point 150mm below the aperture cill. The vertical height of each MEAMAX base unit is adjustable i.e. the lightwell consists of two mouldings that slide one inside the other, to give 250mm height adjustment.

If sufficient vertical height can't be achieved using the base unit then ‘Intermediate elements’ are available for all three different widths. Up to a maximum of three can be used to each provide an additional 350mm vertical height.

The MEAMAX unit is watertight up to the level of the joint ( or the lowest joint if Intermediate elements are used )

Step 3. The lightwell would finish flush with the finished pavement / ground level with a choice of three galvanized steel grills. Each size of grill is constructed from either expanded metal or steel strip on either a 30 x 10mm or 30 x 30mm grid. NOTE - instead of a standard grill, a reinforced grill must be specified if the lightwell will be subject to domestic vehicle loads. 

MULTINORM SELECTION

Step 1. Decide on the width of the basement aperture you have or intend to have. The MULTINORM units are available in four different widths of 1000, 1250, 1500 and 2000mm.

Step 2. Determine the vertical height measured down from finished ground level to a point 150mm below the aperture cill.

MULTINORM ‘Supplements’ can provide an additional 350mm vertical height. See table below for the availability of Supplements for each width.

Step 3. The lightwell would finish flush with the finished pavement / ground level with a choice of three galvanized steel grills. Each size of grill is constructed from either expanded metal or steel strip on either a 30 x 10mm or 30 x 30mm grid. NOTE - if the MULTINORM lightwell will be subject to domestic vehicle loads, either of the reinforced units above and the reinforced Supplements if required, must be specified in addition to a reinforced grill.  

Additional information

We are part of the ThermoneX group of companies. ThermoneX Ltd specialise in the design, manufacture and installation of basements constructed from prefabricated concrete panels manufactured in our factory in Shropshire. The factory also produces a wide range of other concrete products.  

Hinged glass covers are available for fitting directly above the lightwell grill. The covers deflect rain or debris falling directly through the grill. Being open ended, ventilation is still achieved.

Frequently asked questions.

What about drainage?

 Unless installed in a covered courtyard, some rainwater will inevitably enter the lightwell. MEAMAX units are available with or without drain outlets in the base. The outlet would normally be connected to local storm drains or a soak away. All MULTINORN units have a drain outlet.

Delivery lead time? 

Having received your enquiry and resolved any queries, we shall submit a proforma invoice to you. Should you wish to proceed to make  payment, the lightwells will be despatched from stock in Germany. Delivery to site would then normally be within 7 to 10 working days.

How do I pay?

  Payment can be via BACS or cheque to our Bolton office. We regret we are unable to take credit/debit card payments.

How wide can my window / aperture be? 

 The actual fixing points for the Lightwell are wider than the nominal widths given. For example, if you select a 1000mm wide unit, the width of the opening can be 1000mm.

I have external insulation to my walls.

  Special fixings kits are available for insulation either 100mm or 200 mm thick. Please mention the insulation thickness on your enquiry.

Are the lightwells watertight? 

The standard MEAMAX units are watertight to ground water pressure up to the level of the joint in the base unit ( or the lowest joint if Intermediate elements are used )Watertight installation kits are available for the MEAMAX range. The MULTINORM range are not watertight.

What load can the grill take? 

The MEAMAX range of lightwells and Intermediate elements can withstand pedestrian or domestic vehicle loads up to 900kgs wheel pressure. However a grill suitable for vehicle loads must be specified. For the MULTINORM range, the two sizes detailed above,  are suitable for vehicle loads. Again a grill suitable for vehicle loads must be specified.

How much do they cost?

  Fluctuating currency changes makes it impossible to publish fixed prices here. Please email your requirement and we shall be pleased to quote a fixed price to the delivery post code or town specified. Meanwhile, these guide prices may be helpful. Total price, excluding VAT, for the complete supply, including fixing kit, drainage outlet, grill and delivery. Installation is not included and can be carried out by any competent person.
    Two 125 x 100-125 MEAMAX for £666.
    Two 100 x 100 x 60 MULTINORMS with additional supplements for £567.
    Eight 100 x 85-110 MEAMAX  for £1400.
    Twelve 100 x 125-150 MEAMAX with intermediate element for £3,000

More questions?  

Please contact our Sales office. Or if you prefer, just supply some basic dimensions and facts.