37 minute read
TECHNICAL INSIGHT Waterproofing
GOING BENEATH THE SURFACE ON CAR PARK WATERPROOFING
By providing convenient access to shops, bars, restaurants and other leisure-related places of interest, public and privately-owned car parks help oil the wheels of the urban economy. Therefore, it’s vital these sites are in the best possible state of repair in order to remain operational and help maintain town and city centre trade. Exposed car park surfaces are at the daily mercy of the elements, as well as heavy, motorised traffic, which is a potential cause of waterproofing failure if not addressed at an early stage. Mohammed Ashfaq, Senior Sales Manager at Sika, looks at the challenges involved with car park refurbishment in a ‘live’ environment to ensure sites stay safe and ingress-free.
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SIKA
Such is their importance to town and city centres; car park repairs need to be carried out in as short a time as possible. No project is the same, but common situations occur that need to be regularly overcome.
For example, contractors find store managers are often reticent to surrender parking spaces and run the risk of inconveniencing customers. Disgruntled shoppers will take their trade elsewhere if disrupted even for a short time and once lost; they can be very difficult to win back. It’s understandable, therefore, that store managers are keen to keep as much of their car park open as possible during refurbishment.
Managing the flow
For the contractor, a part-open car park means employing the highestpossible health and safety standards to ensure public wellbeing is maintained during working times. This can involve introducing a traffic management system to ensure vehicle flows are managed for the safety of customers and on-site teams alike. Providing clear instructions and signage to indicate works are being carried out is an important part of the safety programme. Temporary site fencing and barriers are also required to keep the workforce safe in the ‘live site’.
Car park refurbishment requires contractors to be mindful of the surrounding environment at all times, which means restricting noise levels to a minimum. When this isn’t possible – due to the number of materials and machinery involved, noise is an unavoidable byproduct in concrete repair and waterproofing projects – out-oftrade-hours working is essential.
Having mentioned the importance of delivering waterproofing projects in a time-effective manner without compromise to the installation’s quality, the use of rapid-curing materials is paramount, particularly when car parks are open to the elements and poor weather can hamper a project’s progress. Sika has a range of quick-setting waterproofing systems suitable for a variety of car park applications, such as top decks and exposed areas, intermediate decks, ground-bearing slabs and ramps.
One of the company’s latest innovations – Sika FloorJoint PDRS – for instance, provides car parks with an integral rubber seal that reduces mechanical vibration and the potential for cracking and ingress when used in decks and ramps. Suitable for vertical and horizontal movements, Sika FloorJoint PDRS is simple to install and trafficable after 24 hours, thus significantly reducing a site’s operational downtime.
Honesty pays
In terms of installation, clear lines of communication are essential to the successful completion of a car park repair and waterproofing project to an agreed timeframe. Clients and those nearby affected by work being carried out should be updated at all times as to how it’s progressing. In some cases, it may mean managing expectations, giving an honest assessment on completion times of different phases of the project.
The answer a contractor gives won’t necessarily be the one someone wants to hear, but better to give a realistic estimation than one designed to make them popular. Such a response can add unnecessary pressure to an already challenging installation.
Material wealth
Sika has spent many years working alongside contractors on live refurbishment car park projects, and during such time, the formula to waterproofing success has remained unchanged: get the basics right. This means phasing the work in the right order, managing traffic flows safely and efficiently, and keeping clear and open lines of communication at all times. Not forgetting, of course, the importance of specifying the right materials to ensure the flooring itself remains durable and watertight throughout its lifespan. Sika has a proven range of products to satisfy such a requirement, with our expert teams on hand to guide customers through every stage of the refurbishment – from specification to installation and beyond.
Case study: Meadows retail short stay MSCP, Chelmsford
Sika, in conjunction with Cemplas Waterproofing and Concrete Repairs, delivered a rapid-cure surface to provide Meadows multi-storey car park in Chelmsford with watertight protection in just seven weeks.
The city centre site was in need of an urgent upgrade due to time and the elements taking their toll on concrete surfaces throughout the building, leading to water ingress in areas. The client, Chelmsford City Council, required a waterproofing solution that not only offered the ultimate watertight protection, but its rapid-install properties were also essential to ensuring the project was completed in good time in order to minimise driver disruption. Sika had the ideal solution.
All concrete repairs, deck waterproofing, movement joints and linemarking at the 391-space car park was carried out by Cemplas Waterproofing and Concrete Repairs – a Sika-accredited car park specialist contractor. As members of the scheme, Cemplas is able to provide the client with a dual guarantee – that the products specified will perform to the highest standards and the installers applying them have met the requisite standards of workmanship and have an excellent track record in supplying Sika car park systems.
For the Meadows refurbishment, following surface preparation and repairs, Sika Ferrogard-903+, a surface-applied, multi-functional liquid corrosion inhibitor was applied to all 7200m 2 of internal decks. This preceded the application of Sikafloor-18 Pronto, a high-performance, rapid-curing deck waterproofing system. Sikagard-550 W Elastic, a plasto-elastic, anti-carbonation coating, was applied to approximately 15,000m 2 of concrete soffits and beams and columns to dramatically transform the car park’s internal appearance. The existing asphalt rooftop, which totalled 1800m 2 in area, was re-waterproofed. This was installed directly onto the existing asphalt layer.
Completed within the client’s sevenweek deadline, the refurbished Meadows multi-storey car park will provide longstanding testimony to a perfect match: Sika’s superb waterproofing systems and Cemplas’ outstanding workmanship.
ALUK INVESTS IN COMMERCIAL SUPPORT ALUK
Simon Cray has joined aluminium systems specialist AluK as a project consultant for the London, East Midlands and East Anglia region. With more than 30 years’ knowledge and experience in the sales and application of aluminium windows, doors and curtain walling systems, Simon is a significant new addition to the AluK team. He brings with him considerable expertise in helping consultants, specifiers and the technical challenges posed by the Linden Homes and Notting Hill Genesis.
contractors to develop fenestration solutions which satisfy both the design intent and the commercial constraints of every project. As well as collaborating with clients directly on specifications, Simon will be providing a whole raft of support services such as CPD seminars, CAD blocks, BIM models, samples and literature.
www.aluk.co.uk 01291 639739 info.uk@aluk.com
SUNRAY TIMBER DOOR DIVISION LAUNCHES FIRE-SECURE SUNRAY
FIRE-SECURE is a brand new ground-breaking combined timber fire and security rated door revolutionising door safety and standards. FIRESECURE is a timber door which offers two unique benefits; timed protection from fire and timed protection from physical attack. Having invested a six-figure sum in the development of this range, Sunray has achieved the ability to provide a 30-minute fire rating on either face of the door – interior or exterior – as well as it having the accredited LPCB SR – Security levels 1 and 2 – certification. The timber door provides aesthetics with a range of colour or veneer finishes, vision panels and locking options.
SAPPHIRE STEPS UP TO THE CHALLENGE AT ALLEN COURT SAPPHIRE
Sapphire’s balcony design and manufacturing expertise has addressed renovation of a London housing estate by
www.sunraytimberdoors.co.uk 01252 645534 sales@sunraytimberdoordivision.co.uk
The transformation of homes at Allen Court in Greenford included an intricate perforated leaf pattern in the balconies’ balustrade panels. The project also required Sapphire to manufacture as much as possible offsite to overcome restricted access through the narrow residential streets around the building. The hilltop location also meant ground levels varied across the site, and the building had various steps in the slab, requiring adjoining balconies to be staggered to different areas.
NATIONWIDE LAUNCHES NEXT-GENERATION GRP FIRE DOOR RANGE NATIONWIDE WINDOWS & DOORS
The vital role that fire doors play in protecting the occupants of a property has never been more compelling as it has been in the past few years. Nationwide Windows & Doors has devoted time, clever product design and testing at levels never previously seen to launch its next-generation GRP fire door range. As one of the UK’s leading fenestration partners to social housing and new builds, Nationwide’s expertise in fire doors makes it the ideal partner of choice when it comes to large-scale replacements or new installation programmes. “It’s been a very difficult time for many involved in the fire door supply chain,” says Nationwide Managing Director, John Whalley. “The country has witnessed what can happen when things go wrong, and the tragedy of Grenfell is still very fresh in our minds. That’s the reason that we’ve dedicated so much time and effort into ensuring that our newly-launched fire door range has been third-party, independently accredited at every stage of the fire door process – from site survey to manufacture and installation – giving specifiers, landlords and residents complete peace of mind.”
SAINT-GOBAIN GLASS LAUNCHES VISIOSUN PRIVACY GLASS SAINT-GOBAIN GLASS
A new privacy glass featuring parallel lines to create a reeded effect has been launched by Saint-Gobain Glass. Ideal for both interior design and external architectural projects, Visiosun provides high levels of privacy whilst also allowing large amounts of natural light to flood into a room. Visiosun is ideal for interior design projects such as doors and partitions, showers and bath screens, display cases, shelves, tabletops and countertops, as well as external architecture including canopies, parapets and facades. Jenni Young, Market Manager – Premium Residential and Design & Deco at Saint-Gobain Glass, added: “This really is a versatile and stylish privacy glass product that will help to create dynamic interior spaces and architecturally interesting buildings. It is a welcome addition to our existing range of high-quality textured glass designs.” Visiosun is easy to process, cut and handle and is available in a wide range of thicknesses and dimensions.
WEATHERING THE STORM WITH ALUMINIUM ENDURAWOOD
When a metal becomes brittle, it can become prone to
MARMOX MULTIBOARDS CARRY MARBLEMOSAICS ACROSS CINQUE PORT SELF-BUILD MARMOX
A strikingly modern residential property in one of Kent’s most famous coastal towns is making articulate use of Marmox Multiboards as part of its cladding solution, around both the inside of an elevated balcony terrace, as well as across the main entrance elevation. Self-builder Gerald Glover opted to use 35 of Marmox’s 12.5mm-thick boards direct from the manufacturer, together with Marmox 360 adhesive, jointing tape and special metal washers which combine with the fixing cracking. When water freezes inside these cracks, it can expand and causes render to fall off. This reduces the building’s protection from weather conditions, increasing the need for maintenance. Unlike steel, aluminium does not become brittle at low temperatures and is freeze and frost resistant. This means that the likelihood of cracks forming is extremely low, making it an ideal material for exterior wall cladding. However, the natural appearance of aluminium cannot deliver the desired effect that many people require when constructing outdoor projects. Endurawood offers a colour palette of natural wood-effect shades that can be applied to its range of aluminium batten and decking board systems. Using advanced powder coating technology, the appearance of wood is sprayed onto aluminium, with all of the metal’s structural benefits maintained underneath. Whether it’s for exterior cladding or outdoor decking, aluminium provides a durable alternative that warns off weather problems.
NEW ROCKWOOL RED BOOK LAUNCHED ROCKWOOL
As part of continued investment in tools which help to save specifiers time and make it easier to identify the correct insulation solutions for facades, walls, floors and roofs, ROCKWOOL has launched the new Red Book – a fully interactive guide which provides digital access to technical data, product certification and a wide range of specification support materials. Always well-regarded by specifiers, the ROCKWOOL Red Book has been out of print for several years. Now back and digitally revamped to meet the needs of building professionals, the Red Book provides an essential and practical resource that brings all the relevant specification data for ROCKWOOL acoustic, fire and thermal solutions, into a single place. Application-driven, the Red Book provides detailed guidance for designing ROCKWOOL stone wool insulation into facade, wall, floor and roof build-ups. This includes NBS Clauses, BIM objects, BBA certification and technical datasheets.
BMI PROVIDES WATERSHED MOMENT FOR PRIMARY SCHOOL BMI UK & IRELAND
Cost-effective and guaranteed for 20 years, the bespoke solution devised by BMI UK & gave a Yorkshire primary school roof a new lease of life and solved its ponding problems. Working together with David Yeadon Surveyors, Watershed and BMI determined that stripping out the existing roof would be complex and unnecessary as an alternative less invasive system that offered better value for the academy was identified. The refurbishment roof specification included utilisation of the existing system as the substrate, with the subsequent application of the BMI Thermaweld FireSmart warm roof system, incorporating a new cut-to-falls insulation scheme.
Ireland and contractor Watershed Roofing screws. Externally, the Multiboards are being fixed over a breathable membrane and timber battens at 300mm centres with the use of the special Marmox sealant, jointing tape and washers ensuring the creation of a watertight surface.
www.marmox.co.uk 01634 835290 sales@marmox.co.uk
STO DECORATIVE PANELS CHOSEN TO REFLECT COVENT GARDEN HERITAGE STO
A package of products from Sto has been used to redesign a prominent building in London and create a major new retail and commercial facility. StoDeco facade panels and StoColor Maxicryl facade paint were used to achieve a new character which blends the refurbished Sussex House with its surroundings in Covent Garden. Sussex House is owned by Longmartin Properties, a joint venture between Shaftesbury and the Mercers’ Company. Sto worked closely with the architects, and with NA Curtain Walling, which installed the panels, to develop an effective and visually striking solution which met the project requirements.
CINEMATIC CHEVRONS WITH NORDIC COPPER
Chevron screens of Nordic Copper tiles announce a Sydney hotel, created from the regeneration of an 80-year-old warehouse, celebrating neighbouring Art Deco buildings and its film precinct location.
AURUBIS
Amid heritage and inter-war buildings in Sydney’s Surry Hills, Paramount House Hotel occupies a 1930s brick warehouse, neighbouring a landmark Art Deco building. Completing an irregular city block once associated with film pioneers Paramount Pictures Studio and 20th Century Fox Film Association, the hotel’s design by Breathe Architecture reflects this historic context.
The copper chevron screen crowns the building’s threestorey brick shell, enwrapping an added storey. Nordic Copper was formed into rectangular tiles by CASA Group. Architectural Roofing & Wall Cladding Pty then designed, using 3D modelling, and assembled the modular sub-frame facade system off site before delivering and installing the 7m-long modules. With some tiles perforated and others tactically omitted, the system comprises three scenarios, adding richness and visual interest.
Contextual response
A representative for Breathe Architecture said: “Contextually responsive to its Sydney location, Paramount House Hotel is truly unique. It is about expressing everything that was old and true, honest and raw, about the existing warehouse. To the existing brick and timber shell, we brought a robust, authentic palette of structural and architectural metalwork, concrete, recycled timber, locally designed tiles, textiles, fixtures and fittings. The delicate jewel-like Nordic Copper chevron crown captures the spirit and excitement of the golden era of film. The project explores the narrative between artefact and ornament, of place and of home.”
Some suites include an external terrace tucked in behind the copper screen, to provide shade, natural ventilation and interaction with both streetscape and climate. With a combination of perforated and opaque Nordic Copper tiles, the chevron facades – and their selective omission – curate views to the city, as well as modify daylighting and reduce glare. The same theme has also been employed for copper partition walls throughout the hotel’s reception lounge, inside the former film storage vault.
Unrivalled performance
Copper has an unrivalled lifespan, no maintenance and full recyclability. With an ‘A1 (non-combustible material)’ fire classification to EN 13501-1, it is suitable for cladding tall buildings, using appropriate constructions. It is also non-toxic with inherent antimicrobial qualities making it ideal for touch surfaces internally as well.
Nordic Standard is part of an extensive portfolio of architectural copper surfaces and alloys from Aurubis, part of the world’s leading integrated copper group and largest copper recycler. Choices include Nordic Brown pre-oxidised copper offering lighter or darker shades of brown determined by the thickness of the oxide layer.
The extensive Nordic Blue, Nordic Green and Nordic Turquoise ranges have been developed with properties and colours based on the same brochantite mineralogy found in natural patinas all over the world. As well as the solid patina colours, ‘Living’ surfaces are available for each with other intensities of patina flecks revealing some of the dark oxidised background material.
Copper alloys include Nordic Bronze and Nordic Brass, which can also be supplied pre-weathered. The innovative Nordic Royal is an alloy of copper with aluminium and zinc, retaining its golden colour. Nordic Decor mechanically applied surface treatments are also available.
CA GROUP ANNOUNCES NEW BRAND POSITIONING – REFLECTING COMPANY EVOLUTION
CA Group has recently announced a new brand positioning strategy, unveiling a new visual identity, signifying a new era for the northeast-based building envelope manufacturer and construction company.
Introducing a new group logo and division logos (CA Building Products, CA Roofing Services, CA Specialist Cladding Systems and CA Refurbishment Projects), the new identity presents a modern and bold new look for the company, which, since its inception over 37 years ago, has largely been recognised by its former logo depicting a roof profile.
The striking, modern icon incorporates three visual cues; a solid, geometric shape (a construction and building reference), three north eastfacing arrows (reflecting the company’s advancing technical focus) and the abstract letters ‘C’ and ‘A’ stacked together (retaining the company’s name, derived from its founders).
The move follows a succession of developments. In the past year, CA Group has broadened its strategic alliances with leading building products manufacturers and property developers, while strengthening long-established supply chain partnerships with companies such as Tata Steel, Knauf and Brett Martin. Production output capacity has multiplied with new state-of-the-art machinery, the company’s product and install range has been extended to include a range of new wall finishes, and a broader colour spectrum of metal cladding options has been introduced for aesthetic flexibility.
Stuart Brown, Development Director, commented: “Although we’re operating in a more challenging environment at present, we’ve maintained our continuous improvement programme across the business, with particular emphasis on our product and service range. Our own-branded Twin-Therm ® Built-Up Roof and Wall system has secured FM approval, and enhancing our build-adaptability has broadened market appeal for our building envelope systems, and increased occupier interest for our clients.
CA GROUP
“More and more, our technical and support services are proving to be a valuable resource for architects, contractors and developers, as we work closely aiding with specification development, and technical guidance, particularly on challenges like temperature control, finding ways to reduce the carbon footprint and operating efficiency gains.
“We’re seeing a wider range of product application and new schemes, such as special factory environments, distilleries and Energy for Waste centres, along with some impressive multi-room, educational and residential builds. There’s continued demand for high-spec warehousing and logistic operational centres, stimulated by e-commerce growth, and we’re exploring the use of Twin-Therm ® in Europe and America.
“Over the years, we’ve accumulated an impressive track record of industry firsts, a vast project portfolio, and have firmly established own-brand building products. Much of our success is underpinned by technical innovation with our focus on advancing product and build application – something that has earned us a strong reputation in the marketplace and which we continue to develop.
“Our new identity reflects both the evolution of the company as well as our vision for the future, while acknowledging our history. It better connects our company strengths, our company brand and will position CA Group for our next era.”
WEMBLEY PINK COACH AND CAR PARK
This award-winning, Potter Church & Holmes Architectsdesigned multi-storey car park in London features a stunning perforated metal facade from RMIG.
RMIG
Wembley Pink MSCP is part of an extensive regeneration project that will also include new housing, shops, venues etc. The multistorey car park has been built to serve the needs of the national stadium and can provide parking for 290 coaches and 730 cars. It will also house 18 outdoor broadcast units for large international events.
RMIG provided a colossal 4665m 2 of perforated metal to create the facade that encases the car park. Using RMIG ImagePerf, the facade depicts images of trees as well as silhouettes of cheering fans, whether it be at a rock concert or a football match.
This innovative building received a double accolade at the British Parking Awards 2020, winning two awards within the ‘Special Projects’ category.
TECHNICAL CHARACTERISTICS:
Raw material: Galvanised steel Pattern: RMIG ImagePerf and round hole perforation Thickness: 3.0mm Finishing operation: Bending Surface treatment: Powder coating RAL 9016 HWF
www.rmig.com 01925 826326
info.uk@rmig.com
EXCEPTIONAL THERMAL PERFORMANCE FROM RAVAGO BUILDING SOLUTIONS
Ravago Building Solutions, one of Europe’s largest manufacturers of XPS insulation, launched Ravatherm XPS X 200 SB earlier this year.
RAVAGO BUILDING SOLUTIONS
Ravatherm XPS X 200 SB is a highperformance thermal insulation board specifically designed for the residential market. The product is robust and durable, meaning it can endure foot traffic on site. Capable of withstanding 200kPa, the boards meet all requirements regarding compressive loads in the domestic/residential market.
Ravatherm XPS X 200 SB products offer exceptional thermal performance. The 50mm boards have a declared lambda of 0.030W/mK, and the 75mm, 100mm and 125mm thicknesses achieve 0.031W/mK.
With low water absorption, Ravatherm XPS X 200 SB has a natural resistance to rain, frost, snow and water vapour, making it an ideal choice of product for residential flooring applications.
Manufactured at Ravago’s UK plant in King’s Lynn, Norfolk, Ravatherm XPS X 200 SB has a lead time of just three to four days from order to delivery. Ravatherm XPS X 200 SB can be supplied
in individual packs or a 15m 3 bulk unit (2.5×2.5×2.4m) on foam bearers. Bulk units can be broken down on-site into four pre-wrapped units or split into individual packs, offering a variety of easy ways to transport material around a busy construction site.
For further information, visit the below website or contact Natalie Sutton on natalie.sutton@ravago.com for enquiries in the south of England, and adam.hilmi@ravago.com for enquiries in the north.
The correct dance floor makes an important contribution to the safe performance of dancers without the risk of slips and falls or longer-term stress injuries. Harlequin Floors has developed floors specifically for dance, offering the exact requirements needed for varying genres of dance, which commercialgrade, industrial and sports floors cannot.
HARLEQUIN FLOORS
When specifying a floor for dance, using general flooring or sports floor standards will not ensure the right floor is installed. Only a floor developed specifically for dance will do. There have been some high-profile examples where floors have had to be replaced by a dance company after the building is complete because the floor was not considered fit for purpose by the dancers using it.
Why sports floors are not suitable for dance
There are some critical factors that distinguish the requirements of dancers from those of sports played on a sports floor. Many sports require a firm floor which allows balls to bounce predictably. Sports footwear is generally cushioned to protect against impact injuries and provides grip for the sportsperson. By contrast, dancers need more absorption or cushioning on landing from jumps. Their footwear varies
SETCRETE EXTERIOR FLOOR LEVELLING COMPOUND SEES 300% SALES GROWTH SETCRETE
Setcrete Exterior floor levelling compound has seen year-on-year growth of 300% in leading builders’ merchants. Used to prepare patio areas and other outdoor spaces prior to the installation of floorcoverings such as porcelain tiles – popular for creating a continuous ‘outsideinside’ flooring solution for areas connected by bi-fold or sliding doors – and for creating a wear coat surface in garages and garden outbuildings, Setcrete Exterior offers a quick and easy way to smooth and level rough, worn or mechanically-damaged concrete or sand/cement screeds. The resulting base provides the perfect platform on which to lay tiles to optimise the finished aesthetics. Alternatively, it can be left uncovered as a standalone wearing surface or painted over, with a suitable floor paint, for example, in converting a garage into a gym. It’s advanced, water-mix formulation makes the product quick and easy to apply, providing a surface that is ‘walk-on hard’ from two hours after application. When set and cured, it’s unaffected by rain or frost. according to dance style and doesn’t cushion landings. Dancers also need the right degree of traction from the dance surface.
Harlequin works extensively with dance scientists and biomechanics experts to investigate the effects of the choice of dance floor on dancer performance and injury, and to research
and develop floors that minimise these risks.
EARTHBORN – DOING THINGS DIFFERENTLY EARTHBORN
Earthborn is delighted to introduce the Earth Collection, a palette of five harmonious new paint shades inspired by the natural world, themed around the earth, land, sand, sea and clouds. The Classic Earthborn colour card will remain unchanged for now; instead, a simple bookmark is available displaying real painted swatches of the five new colours. The new colours, and the full range of 72 shades on the Classic shade card, are available to buy online now, or from Earthborn’s network of stockists. They include: Crocky Road – with a faint green undertone. Up Up Away – a cool, calm and collected off-white shade. Grassy – an elegant grey-green, reminiscent of misty, mountainous landscapes. Skipper – a warm denim shade with a casual charm. And, Sandy Castle, which evokes the feeling of sunlight on sand dunes to create take on cream. With Earthborn, you get no acrylics or oils, but you get high quality and high performance and a full list of ingredients to help you make a more informed choice.
BRITISH BRICK – BUILDING A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
The idea of bricks and mortar are so totally ingrained in British psyche that the phrase has become a byword for stability, and have done more than any other materials to shape the appearance of the villages, towns and cities that we live in. So much so that for residential housing, brick is closely associated with safety, security and wellbeing, says Sean Wilkins, Technical Manager at the Brick Development Association.
BRICK DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION
Brickwork is so common that perhaps it’s easy to forget what a brilliant material it is. Brick making was brought into the UK by the Romans, and it’s remarkable to think that many of the structures they built are still standing 2000 years later. Simply put, brick has a long, long history of proven performance.
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the UK was using around 2.5 billion bricks every year, the vast majority of which was manufactured within the UK. Although construction has been badly disrupted, there is still a fundamental shortage of housing in the UK, which needs to be addressed. The brick industry has invested significantly over the last few years, to increase production capacity and do our bit to ensure that these much-needed homes can be built. What better way to revive the economy than by building homes and creating jobs with our British supply chain?
Brickwork has long been favoured by architects, and they continue to innovate with different ways of using the product. There is obviously something very appealing about the versatility and the wide range of textures and colours. For me, it’s the same reason that LEGO has been one of the best-selling toys since its invention to the present day. Fashions may come and go, but brick is built to last.
Brick manufacturers are equally progressive and have always tried to be at the forefront of change in the construction industry. The performance requirements of our facades have changed significantly over the last 20 years; improving the performance with regards to water penetration, thermal insulation, acoustic insulation and airtightness. We should be pleased with our progress but also aware that sustainability will continue to shape the agenda of construction for the coming decades.
Brick manufacturers are fully committed to sustainability in the broadest possible sense. Significant improvements have been made in energy and resource efficiency by recycling heat from kilns, investing in renewable energy and reducing the amount of water consumed by the process. Bricks also benefit from the fact that very little packaging is required, and minimal waste is generated during the manufacturing, transportation and construction process.
Brick manufacturers have also made improvements in the social element of sustainability by investing in local communities and injury prevention systems for employees. Environmental protection and particularly restoration of quarries have made significant contributions to improving natural habitat and biodiversity. For example, the creation of the King Dyke nature reserve.
In a sense, sustainability within the factory gate is easier because the industry has direct control. However, manufacturers have also engaged with the wider sector to support sustainability outside of the factory gate. Luckily for us, clay brick has a very strong sustainability message.
Brick has longevity – a minimum of 150 years
Brick has durability – it’s robust and can stand up to the wear and tear of multiple generations, with very little maintenance
Brick is beautiful – the most sustainable building is the one that lasts, and no one wants to knock down a beautiful building.
As well as this, brick provides comfort and flexibility. Brick buildings are easily adapted to extend or sub-divide, depending on need. The high thermal mass of brick means that they lessen the impact of big changes in the external air temperature. Then at the end of a building’s life, it is possible to reclaim and re-use the bricks, giving them a second life.
Probably the most important challenge is the commitment to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Brick is going to be an important element of this journey, and it is very pleasing to see housing projects like Goldsmith Street Estate being recognised with the Sterling Prize for achieving very high energy efficiency. Hopefully, this project can be a template for all social housing going forward.
Making design decisions can sometimes be a complex assessment, but there are two simple rules that can be applied to all sectors – buy local and buy quality.
THE IMPORTANCE OF URBAN LIGHTING
As we move into the autumn and winter months, when the nights draw in and the mornings shrink, it becomes more pressing to discuss the benefits of high-quality urban lighting. The primary purpose of exterior lighting is to make us feel safe once it gets dark outside – but modern lighting solutions have been designed to do so much more.
TAMLITE
BS EN 12464-2:2014 gives a range of specific requirements for the lighting of outdoor spaces, from minimum lux levels to uniformity.
Many traditional lighting fixtures in exterior applications do not put enough of an emphasis on uniformity, despite reaching the minimum required lux level. These images demonstrate the problem with focusing too heavily on lux levels without considering uniformity.
The path to the right has fittings that do achieve 20 lux at ground level, whereas in the top image, only 10 lux is reached. However, the uniformity of both examples is 0.01 and 0.56 respectively (on a scale between 0 and 1, where 0.25 would be the minimum required level), indicating that the luminaires used in the bottom image provide a much more even spread.
Achieving this even distribution comes from the use of optical control, directing the light where it should go.
Tamlite offers a wide range of luminaires for external applications, including its new range of CITY luminaires.
ADVANCED FIRE PANELS SELECTED FOR SITE-WIDE SYSTEM UPGRADE AT MAJOR UK HOSPITAL ADVANCED
130 Advanced fire alarm control panels have been chosen to protect one of the UK’s largest acute teaching hospitals. Selected for their performance, quality and ease of use, 96 intelligent addressable MxPro 5 fire alarm control panels and 34 custom AdSpecials panels will be installed at Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester, as part of a comprehensive upgrade. Grainger Fire & Security, responsible for the 18-month project, chose Advanced’s industry-leading fire protection for its robustness, versatility and ease of installation in complex and critical sites. The system change over to Advanced will involve the installation of network cable across a live hospital environment as well as BMS integration, and the introduction of a graphics package to provide a visual representation of the fire system to end-users. The 34 custom-engineered, six-loop panels with 600 zonal LEDs included in the installation will be designed and manufactured by Advanced’s AdSpecials department. The network of Advanced panels will work with over 20,000 devices using Apollo and Hochiki protocol.
From road and post-top lanterns for private roads and car parks, to bollards and wall packs for pedestrianised pathways and building entrances, Tamlite provides the complete outdoor
lighting solution.
KNIGHTSBRIDGE LAUNCHES SELF-TEST EMERGENCY LIGHTING RANGE KNIGHTSBRIDGE
Knightsbridge is introducing a range of self-test emergency lighting products that offers convenience, compliance, cost savings and ease of fault identification. The comprehensive, LED-powered range, which is ideal for retail, commercial, industrial and HMO applications, comprises a robust bulkhead unit, a contemporary downlight, high lumen twin spotlights and a versatile exit sign. The self-test feature is built into each product and conducts routine functional and duration testing in accordance with the relevant standards, obviating the need for costly manual testing and intervention other than to record and rectify faults. With no requirement to isolate the mains supply to test, there is no disruption to the normal working day and no loss of productivity. After installation and an initial 24- hour charging period, the product conducts its own self-test operation. This consists of a three-hour duration test, after which a 30-second ‘monthly’ function test is carried out every 28 days, and then yearly, another three-hour duration test. Following each self-test sequence, the unit will revert into charging mode.
LUTRON LAUNCHES AN RA2 SELECT LAMP DIMMER
Lutron Electronics, the lighting and shade control pioneer, has announced the launch of a new lamp dimmer for its RA2 Select home lighting solution.
LUTRON ELECTRONICS
The RA2 Select plug-and-play lamp dimmer allows homeowners to customise and control their lights from anywhere via the Lutron app, a Pico remote, or voice assistants, including Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Honeywell Home, SONOS and Google Assistant.
The UK smart home market is experiencing exponential growth, with revenue projected to reach £72m by the end of the year. In the first three months of 2020 alone, UK households spent approximately £475m on small electrical appliances, thus highlighting the proliferation of technology in the home. The RA2 Select lamp dimmer enables homeowners on any budget to make their lighting remotely customisable and controllable.
“The Lutron RA2 Select lamp dimmer is an ideal solution for homeowners seeking a costeffective entry into smart home lighting control. Its compact and convenient design makes it suitable for any home. With the potential to scale-up and complement other products within the RA2 Select family,” said Steven Detmer, Residential Programme Manager at Lutron Electronics.
Available from £110, the RA2 Select plug-in lamp dimmer is compatible with 200W LED, incandescent and halogen lamps.
Visit Lutron Electronics’ website for more information.
TADO° ADDS NEW PRODUCTS TO ITS SMART THERMOSTAT PORTFOLIO TADO°
tado° has launched its new wireless Smart Thermostat Starter Kit. This will provide a clearer customer choice, easier installation and deliver compatibility with all heating setups. Furthermore, tado° also presents its new Wireless Temperature Sensors to provide more precise room readings, control and comfort. Being wireless, they can be positioned anywhere in the room at the user’s discretion and allow residents to conveniently adjust the room temperature on the wireless temperature sensor itself. Compatible with 95% of all heating systems, the expanded Smart Thermostat V3+ Starter Kits offer unmatched integration and control of all kinds of boilers from any manufacturer.
www.tado.com
VENT-AXIA’S ENERGY-EFFICIENT VENTILATION HELPS PROVIDE COMFORT IN LUXURY HOME
VENT-AXIA
Vent-Axia has been specified as part of a luxury 1300m 2 new-build family home in Kingswood, Surrey. Designed to provide privacy, space, luxury and comfort the property spans four floors, with five Vent-Axia Sentinel Kinetic High Flow Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) units providing ventilation for this extensive project. The impressive build was project managed by the owner who appointed Built Environment Technology as the MVHR specialist. Built Environment specified the Vent-Axia Sentinel Kinetic High Flow MVHR units to provide energy-efficient ventilation throughout and the units were selected thanks to their high efficiency, their ability to meet the substantial airflow demands of the property and to ensure excellent indoor air quality with proportionate control – and adjusts ventilation rates accordingly.
NEW UK WEBSITE FOR DRAKA’S MULTIMEDIA SYSTEMS DIVISION DRAKA UK
With the continued growth of Draka’s Universal Cabling System, Prysmian Group has now launched a UK-specific website dedicated to its datacom and multimedia cabling solutions. mms.drakauk.com the units are factory-fitted with an integral humidity sensor, which intelligently tracks air quality
has been designed to provide Draka UK customers with a single source of information on the brand’s extensive range of fibre and copper structured cabling, making it easier to keep up-to-date with latest Draka UK developments. Draka is investing heavily in the Universal Cabling System to deliver a continual stream of upgrades to cables and connectivity. Customers can expect to see new products released shortly, specifically designed to increase system performance and ease of installation.
F. BALL PROVIDES SKY WITH GOOD NEWS
F. BALL AND CO.
High-performance subfloor preparation products and adhesive from F. Ball and Co. have been used to create a blemish-free, high-quality floor finish for one of the main newsrooms at Sky News studios in Central London. A combination of luxury vinyl tiles and rubber sheet was installed over a total floor area of 80m 2 at Sky’s Millbank Studios in Westminster. To provide a firm, smooth base over which the floorcovering could be installed, contractors from Croydon-based iFlor Flooring Contractors installed F. Ball’s Stopgap 700 Superflex flexible levelling compound over the existing plywood subfloor, having first primed it with Stopgap P131 generalpurpose primer.
www.f-ball.co.uk 01538 361633 mail@f-ball.co.uk
OFFSITE SOLUTIONS DELIVERS SECOND BATHROOM POD CONTRACT FOR ZEAL HOTELS OFFSITE SOLUTIONS
Offsite Solutions has delivered its second hotel bathroom project for developer Zeal Hotels – a £700,000 contract for main contractor Midas Construction. Offsite Solutions has manufactured 136 steel-framed bathroom pods for the new £11.8m Ibis Plaza Hotel at Woodlands Court Business Park in Bridgwater, Somerset. The stylish shower rooms for the Ibis Plaza were fully fitted-out off site and craned into position to reduce the installation time to just a few hours. The pods feature a large walk-in shower with a fixed glass panel and pivot glass door; a contemporary square hand basin mounted toilet with brushed satin dual flush fitting, and Roca sanitaryware.
ETA-APPROVED EJOT ISO-CORNER PROVIDES ASSURED FIXING SOLUTION FOR EWI EJOT
EJOT has secured ETA approval for its IsoCorner, a load-bearing fastening element for medium to heavyweight attachments in external wall insulation applications. The mounted on a floating black granite-effect shelf with a black-finished metal towel rail below; wall
ETA confirms the engineered value of IsoCorner, which is moulded from high-density polyurethane foam to minimise thermal bridging – and easily cuts to sit flush with the insulation face. Structural strength and adaptability combine to provide a dependable supporting bracket ideal for attaching building elements to a facade that is to be treated with an EWI composite system. These could include railings and Juliet balconies, which require a secure attachment to the load-bearing wall and not the wall insulation system itself.
www.ejot.co.uk 01977 687040 m.newell@ejot.co.uk
EAGLE PLATFORMS REACHES NEW HEIGHTS AT POWER STATION PROJECT EAGLE PLATFORMS
Eagle Platforms has been chosen to deliver safety training and working-at-height equipment for the construction of an ambitious zero-emission biopower plant at Ellesmere Port, Cheshire. The facility will provide energy for around 50,000 homes once fully operational. The current scheme is one of a number of projects at which Eagle Platforms has provided such services. The skills imparted through Jamie Fleetwood, Training Manager at the Anston-based company, as well as the working at height equipment, will enable managers and employees on the large site to carry out work safely and efficiently, helping to complete the exciting project in a timely fashion.
OSMO POLYX-OIL OFFERS A NATURAL FINISH OSMO
Polyx-Oil is a premium wood finish keeping wooden surfaces in top condition. Ideal for solid or engineered wood flooring, it is a high-quality, water-repellent and tread-resistant wood finish based on natural ingredients. Offering all the professional features of a traditional oil-based finish, Polyx-Oil allows the natural texture of the wood to still be apparent. Polyx-Oil’s natural components penetrate deeply into the wood to create a micro-porous finish. This allows the wood to breathe naturally. After treatment, the wood is nourished from within and retains its elasticity. It becomes water repellent, stain resistant and more hard-wearing.
BUY BRITISH BRICK
Buy your clay bricks from a Brick Development Association Member and ensure quality every time
Bulmer Brick & Tile Co Ltd
www.bulmerbrickandtile.co.uk
Coleford Brick & Tile Ltd www.colefordbrick.co.uk
Forterra Plc
www.forterra.co.uk
H.G. Matthews
www.hgmatthews.com
Ibstock Plc
www.ibstockbrick.co.uk
Ketley Brick Company Ltd
www.ketley-brick.co.uk
Michelmersh Brick Holdings Plc
www.mbhplc.co.uk
Northcot Brick Ltd
www.northcotbrick.co.uk
Raeburn Brick
www.raeburnbrick.co.uk
W H Collier Ltd
www.whcollier.co.uk
Wienerberger Ltd
www.wienerberger.co.uk
York Handmade Brick Company Ltd
www.yorkhandmade.co.uk The Brick Development Association is the national authority on clay bricks and pavers. Our membership accounts for almost 100% of the sector’s productivity here in the UK. Our role is to communicate the collective interests of our members and to ensure their products remain the material of choice in the UK’s built environment.
The Brick Development Association
The Building Centre, 26 Store Street London, WC1E 7BT
brick@brick.org.uk 020 7323 7030