i-Build June 2022

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FOCUS:

S ELF B U ILDS

R ENOVAT IONS

C ONVER S IONS

DIY

EXT ENS IONS COVER STORY

en rgy- f ic ent conversi

UUNE **

ISSUE 1-

ADVISORY

RKABITECTURE &FELINEFINDS Treat your fur y friends to a brand- ew bed, climb ng tower or ultraco l drink g sta ion

of a Victor an pro e ty in Godalming, Sur ey, built using natur l materi ls and led by su tain ble princ les

moc.aidemtuhder.w

INSPIRATION

I-DEAS

SAV Y ON L I N E T O OL SH O P I N G : Why buying to ls onli e is a wise choi e for the natio ’s self-bui d rs and home renovat s

Wo dth rpe Stables is an

SURS ’ Y E R SPC EC TA ULR A SUSTA STAES LB ANI

T H E G R A S S CA N BE GRE NER mowing so you can sit back and admire your

Top tips for bet r lush, gre n gras

MATERIALS

T H E B E N E F I T S OF OP T I N G FOR I C F consider insulated con ret formw k (ICF) for your project

Why you should

WHAT DOES YOUR HOME SAY ABOUT YOU?

SAY IT WITH CARE

www.cedral.world

SAY IT WITH SUSTAINABILITY

EDITORIAL: Rebecca Kemp

rebecca@redhutmedia.com

Hannah Woodger

hannah@redhutmedia.com

PRINT & DIGITAL ADVERTISING: Sam Ball samr@ edhutmedia.com

Jim Moore

ij r@m edhutmedia.com

PRINT DESIGN MANAGER: Jack Witcomb

a j ckr@ edhutmedia.com

DIGITAL DESIGN MANAGER: Matt Morse

a m tt@redhutmedia.com

ACCOUNTS: Rachel Pike

accounts@redhutmedia.com

SALES SUPPORT & STATISTICS: Klare Ball

lk are@redhutmedia.com

PUBLISHER: Sam Ball

samr@ edhutmedia.com TERMS AND CONDITIONS:

Contributions are invited andh w en not acceptediw ll be returned only if accompanied by a fully stamped and return addressed envelope. o N responsibilityiw ll be taken for drawings, photographs or literary contributions during transmission or in the editor's hands.n I the absence of an agreement, the copyright of all contributions, literary, photographics or artistic belongs to Redu H t Media Ltd.h T e Publisher accepts no responsibility in respect of advertisements appearing in thea m gazine and the opinions expressed in editoriala m terial or otherwise do not necessarily represent the view of the publisher.h T e Publisher does not accept any liability of any loss arising from the late appearance or non publication of any advertisement.

Cover story:

Woodthorpe Stables is an energy-efficient conversion in Surrey, built using natural materials.

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s'rotiWelcome d I-BUILD JUNE 2022

I

t’s all hands on deck when undertaking a self-build or renovation project. Whether you’re a DIY builder or reaching out to several specialist contractors, it certainly pays to have the right tools and, when taking on such a large-scale project that usually sets home improvers back thousands of pounds, it’s essential to get things right, and striving for a professional finish is typically at the top of everyone’s wish list.

In this month’s issue, we’ve talked to two experts about choosing the right tools for your project and different approaches to ordering all-important equipment. Firstly, on page 10, Steve Davidson, Marketing Manager at U-PRO, explains why purchasing tools online is a wise choice. Here, he describes the advantages of buying supplies via the web and runs through the benefits online merchants can provide.

Meanwhile, Laura Green, Commercial Trading Manager LBM at Gibbs & Dandy, offers essential advice on the top 10 tools every self-builder should have in their arsenal. Turn to page 30 for more.

Last month at one of the nation’s leading dog shows, Goodwoof, the selfbuild community’s very own protagonist,

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Kevin McCloud, was called in to judge a series of architect-designed dog kennels in a celebration of ‘barkitecture’.

Of course, we had to explore the trend in this month’s edition. Turn to page 08 for some seriously-stylish accessories for your four-legged friends.

Elsewhere in this issue, we explore three jaw-droppingly-beautiful architect-designed homes, uncover the vast benefits of opting for luxury vinyl tiles (LVTs) and discover why you should consider insulated concrete formwork (ICF) as a building material for your self-build.

I hope you enjoy this issue. Don’t forget, if you’re coming to the end of your self-build and would like us to feature your home as inspiration for other budding housebuilders, then please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Alternatively, if you’re about to embark on your self-build journey and would be keen for us to document your progress, do get in contact.

Rebecca Rebecca Kemp Editor

@ibuildmagazine

s'rotiPicks d

@ibuildmagazine

ibuildmagazine

Download the i-Build app for iPhone, iPad and Android. Search 'i-build'.

See page 12.

Red u H t Media Ltd 5 Mansion Row, rB ompton, e K nt, ME7 S 5 E 01622 4 9 16 0 5 r.w edhtu media.com

Abode has brought eco-luxe convenience to a unique water tower restoration project with its hot water tap +

MASOPAIN Y RN T FOAL R SU L F R ACES Earthborn’s Bonding Primer can be used alongside Silicate Masonry Paint for exterior masonry surfaces

PLA E SINSWITCH G S E Gira has supplied its switches to a sustainable family home project in rural Country Antrim, Northern Ireland I BUILDmJUNEm**

Outdoor fire pit and barbecue options

Experience the outdoors The fireside has always held a special place in both the hearts and homes of the people of Norway. Introducing the Air – a versatile range of al fresco cooking and heat to let you enjoy the outdoors your way.

Find Your Retailer www.nordpeis.co.uk/retailers

nordpeis.co.uk

Air BBQ Grill with optional wooden side shelves and optional wooden shelf for log store

NEW eReflex 150RW with Oak Log effect, shown as a three-sided installation. Shown with optional Mood Lighting System.

I BUILDmJUNEm**

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DESIRED DESIGNS

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urrently, neutral interior schemes still seem to be the way forward.

With a move towards more sustainable spaces that save money and resources on redecorating, it’s no wonder these timeless shades aren’t going anywhere soon.

However, the issue that many self-builders and renovators find is that too many neutral tones result in a somewhat flat, bland aesthetic. Typically, using these muted tones as a base works best. From here, you can elevate your I BUILDmJUNEm**

YOURS TO BUY palette with darker, richer colours, and americano is the perfect candidate. Pairing 1. BrownGaphicNo2 perfectly with whites, beiges poster, D nio £14.95 and creams, this dark brown shade exudes a ‘70s mood 2. Smalobre and adds a real sense of brown vase, character to spaces that are Rocket S G orge, £29 yet to find their personality. Try , r i a3. hc esirpeR lanigirO using the hue to frame your current scheme with Scandi- A O P £ , i n a l o c r E . L style furniture, decorative glassware and soft leathers.

4. Ginghamrufle The beauty of this colour lies in tablecoh,RUd its form, with shades blending from£189 to formulate an iridescent look that adds depth and interest 5., n o i h s u c s e v r u C a n o M to any interior space.

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DESIRED DESIG N S

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BARKITECTURE & FELINE FINDS Humans aren’t the only ones keen to move into their newly-renovated or -built abodes. Treat your four-legged friends to a brand-new bed, climbing tower or ultra-cool drinking and eating station. for T ime walkies

This unique frame

H anging around

contains individual and

for anxious cats or

original, vintage cards

those looking for a

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handcrafted in Poland,

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this cat shelf is ready to

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dog leads on, so you’ll

a maple or wenge base

never lose a lead again.

in four colours.

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This shelf is ideal

ered P amp p o och

Rubik is a pet bed that

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brings colour to your

ideal for cats under k 5 g.

decor. a H ndmade

It has a beautiful design

in synthetic leather,

that blends seamlessly

this elegant bed was

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designed with comfort in

modern design balances

mind. Provide your furry

functionality and style for

friends with a stylish floor

both cats and cat owners.

bed that also works as a

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The Dome litter box is

home decor piece.

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Sophie Allport has

P rickly paws

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scratching post, with a

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pink flower, will be sure

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space, yet still blend well

around and playing.

with any home design.

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osy mattress

I BUILDmJUNEm**

This cactus-shaped

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Fire Rated Sealed Units Firman offer a wide range of fire resistant glass options with varying levels of protection as required by your project. Contact our sales office for further information.

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I BUILDmJUNEm**

VIEWPOINT

S tDaevvidson

A former Product Designer, Steve is an experienced Marketing Manager with a keen interest in the professional trades. U-PRO was his brainchild. He is passionate about delivering a first-class service and adding value to DIY enthusiasts and professional tradespeople and supporting the future of construction through apprentice incentives.

Viewpoint Toolsta k: t h e b n f i t s o f u s i ng o n l i e t r a d e m rc h a n t s Steve Davidson, Marketing Manager at U-PRO, a growing online retailer of trade tools and supplies, explains why buying tools online is a wise choice for the nation’s self-builders embarking on a lifelong goal of building their dream home. Steve describes the advantages of buying supplies online and the range of benefits online merchants can provide.

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elf-build developments and home improvements have become increasingly popular in the last decade, a trend that was accelerated by the COVID pandemic and stay-at-home restrictions. For many people, it became clear that if they were going to stay at home, then they would need to change their property to better suit their needs. In fact, the latest Government figures show that nearly a quarter of a million homeowners in England were granted planning permission to change, convert or extend their homes from January to September 2021.

This is a trend that seems to be here to stay since the recent five-year VAT reprieve for sustainable home renovations on aspects such as insulation, solar panels and heat pumps. This will undoubtedly encourage more people to selfbuild anything from extensions and conversions to refurbishments and more.

With a regulatory landscape ripe for self-build projects and a desire to create more bespoke, energy-efficient and environmentally-friendly homes with more outdoor space, contemporary homebuilding has never been so appealing.

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At the start of a project, it makes sense to work with an architect or interior designer to decide and layout exactly how you want your home to look. Working with a local builders’ merchant is the next big decision.

And it’s a decision that should not be taken lightly.

Finding a reliable merchant where you can buy large building supplies, such as concrete, timber frames, plasterboards and roofing, will help you stick to your timings and ensure you don’t exceed your budget. Many builders’ merchants offer memberships that will enable you to save money on items purchased, and many can offer good discounts when you’re buying high-cost items in bulk. The best merchants will provide you with information, helping you choose the right products, work out quantities and give you indicative lead times.

VIEWPOINT

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Often, we instinctively feel the need to visit a physical store to get expert advice on the tools we need to do the job at hand, which is why you will find many self-builders at their local trade store trying to get the attention of a retail assistant. Online shopping removes the inconvenience of going into a store and trying to find the right store assistant to answer your specific questions.

With many online retailers, there’s a specialist customer service team readily available who can tell you everything about the products available and whether they’re appropriate for the job you need to do. As the customer service team has oversight of the full range of stock that an online retailer provides, they are better placed to suggest alternatives or even a more suitable tool or material that will help you carry out what you need to do effectively.

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The first fix – everything that happens between laying down your foundations and finishing your plastering – is a major build stage of any self-build or renovation, a fundamental part of the process.

At this point, self-builders aren’t necessarily thinking about the smaller, more day-to-day tools and supplies required for any self-build project, both great and small. These can include tools such as sanders, paintbrushes, adhesives, screwdrivers, sealants, safety wear and cleaning materials.

Such items play a critical role in the development and delivery of any self-build, and homeowners need to be aware of their options. They could source day-to-day tools from the builders’ merchant they’ve chosen; however, it’s likely to be more costeffective and convenient to buy these everyday items online.

Online trade retailers often stock a wider and more diverse range of dayto-day tools and materials that you may require during your self-build project. The cost savings should also be considered; for example, some online retailers provide a subscribe-and-save option where you can place repeat orders of everyday materials and save some money by doing so. What’s more, online trade retailers offer various exclusive discounts, whether that’s free delivery or money off popular products for a set period of time.

Another key advantage of online retailers is the flexibility they can provide when it comes to delivery. During a self-build project, one of the most timedraining inconveniences is when you run out of something or need a slightly different-sized tool or tape – which often means heading to the nearest DIY store to purchase what you’re missing. This can be avoided by heading online and choosing what you need with fast and efficient delivery to your doorstep.

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When you purchase online, you will, more than likely, benefit from better prices too.

Online stores don’t have the same costs as physical stores, which means that you will be able to browse from a bigger selection of products at a smaller price.

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Just like bricks and mortar stores that offer loyalty schemes, online retailers do too. And they’re not to be underestimated. By becoming a member or opening an account with an online trade retailer, self-builders can gain access to a wide range of enhanced benefits including tool and supplies insurance (a must, given the task in hand and how many different tools you will use weekly), regular discounts and cashback with every purchase.

So, the next time you need a specific type of paintbrush, wrench, hammer or masking tape, why not consider visiting a fast, reliable and trustworthy online retailer before you head out of the door for the umpteenth time to pick up the tools or supplies you need?

www.u-pro.co.uk I BUILDmJUNEm**

SUSTAINABLE LIVING

All Images: @Fred Howarth

Sur ey’s archite c -designed su tain ble stables Woodthorpe Stables is an energy-efficient conversion of a Victorian property in Godalming, Surrey, built using natural materials and led by sustainable principles. The design and self-build was realised by homeowner and Architect, Ed Martin of Delve Architects for his young family.

“M

y wife, Becky, and I had lived in south London for eight years and were looking to gain more family living space,” explains Ed. “We had renovated properties before, and with house prices in the area above our budget, we started to look outside London. We began initially looking around Teddington, Kingston and Richmond. Once we considered commutes and the main train lines into Waterloo or Victoria station, we soon realised that we had more leeway to move further afield and consider plots of land and neglected buildings.

We had more freedom to deliver a genuinely sustainable renovation.

“Due to the small renovation works that we had undertaken before on previous properties, we weren’t daunted by the task.

With the knowledge acquired I BUILDmJUNEm**

through my architecture practice and Becky’s experience with self-building, we knew that we could do something extraordinary if we found the right place.”

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Ed continues: “Becky initially did a lot of research into buying a plot of land, and we spent our weekends driving out to different areas to get a better idea of what might be possible.

We used online plot finder websites and set up alerts on websites to see if we could find something suitable. There were a lot of old equestrian sites without planning permission, which we felt could have been perfect. Still, we needed to be within walking distance of a main train station, rather than a car drive away. Eventually, we came across Godalming and the property at Woodthorpe Stables. It had been empty for three years.”

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SUSTAINABLE LIVING

The property itself had been converted to residential use in the 1950s, yet was left vacant since 2015 and was in a dire condition with single glazing, no insulation on the floor, walls or roof, and sparse electrics and lighting. Yet, with the historic stone walls in a sturdy condition, a recently-retiled roof, and environmental considerations, the decision was made to retrofit the stables into a modern eco-home.

Describing more about the style and age of the original building, Ed illustrates: “The original stone haybarn was built in the 1800s, connecting to a larger manor house, which still exists higher up the hill. The haybarn was situated on the edge of the site, sitting alongside the main driveway up to the manor. The previous owner converted the house into a twobedroom dwelling in 1950.”

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Recalling the planning process, Ed continues: “We initially proposed a pre-planning application with the council to test their reaction against a slightly bigger scheme.

We received their consultation feedback within six weeks and submitted our final proposal through a householder planning application. Before issuing to the council, we dropped plans around to the different neighbours to explain what we hoped to achieve.

Thankfully, they all appreciated the central idea of maintaining the historical building and adding to it. So, after eight weeks, we were granted our planning permission with no objections.”

Moving on to how the two finalised their design brief, Ed explains: “We knew as a base level how many bedrooms and what type of living spaces we wanted to construct, but from then onwards, we were free to explore and create.

Initially, we looked at assembling a new first-floor level, but it would have taken us over budget, so we kept to a single storey throughout.

“We wanted to show the value of retrofitting old buildings and testing our skills to see how sustainable we could be. The original property was rated with the worst energy rating of ‘G’ when we purchased it. We’re now B rated, which is amazing, seeing as the house has uninsulated solid stone walls. As inspiration, we looked at the extension at the Garden Museum in Lambeth by Dow Jones Architects and the timberframed construction projects of Feilden Fowles.”

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SUSTAINABLE LIVING

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Ed and Becky started building in October 2020 and completed the build in April 2021. “The project ran roughly three or four weeks over from the original date,” explains Ed, “but this was due to scope changes and the impact of the pandemic on deliveries and the workforce. We also built during a particularly cold winter, which meant some problematic days on site for the construction team.”

Speaking more of the difficulties associated with the build, Ed reflects: “The most complex challenge was accessing the plot, as the building sits right on the site’s boundary against a pedestrian walkway and roadside. Deliveries needed to be carefully coordinated and timed not to block the street. We also started building in 2020, delivering the project through the different lockdowns during the pandemic.

“Working with an old building meant we weren’t quite sure what we would find until we started to take it apart.

Under the concrete slab, we found the original cobbled floor of the stables.

Space was at a premium during the build, but we tried as best we could to store demolition material for re-use.

The cobbles have been used as paving externally, while all the internal brick partitions were carefully taken down and stored for re-use around the building.”

When asked if they remained within their forecasted budget, Ed said: “We completed a lot of excavation work around the building to dig it out from the hillside – the stone haybarn had been built, then surrounded by earth on two sides. The excavation and size of the retaining walls were increased in strength and depth to ensure we didn’t have any future problems; this added £5000 to our build. Our decision to switch to a completely electric system instead of gas added a further £8000 onto our build. We had hoped to utilise the Government’s Green Homes Grant scheme for our project, but this was pulled after three months of waiting to see if our application had been approved. Instead, we took advantage of the existing Renewable Heat Incentive scheme, which effectively pays us back our investment in arrears rather than upfront, up to £7000. Some existing timber rafters were rotten and unsalvageable, which added additional extras to our budget.”

“We moved back into the property in April 2021, as soon as the works finished. We decided to leave packages of work to a later date to help financially with the cost variations that occurred during the build.”

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Completed in 2021 after a six-month construction period, the work stripped the stables back to their original character. The building now uses Douglas fir timber framing, adding 25m2 of space for the two-bedroom home with open-plan living areas, a courtyard, playroom, larder and utility room.

“The original building is built of Bargate stone – a sandstone material found locally in the area,” says Ed. “The existing stone and red brick walls have so much character that we decided we had to keep it all exposed. We wanted our project to be as sustainable as possible, so we knew we were looking at timber-frame construction for any new element. The lightness of the

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timber contrasts against the stone to create a clear division between new and old.”

Ed and Becky followed a sustainability-first strategy when it came to material specification. As Ed explains: “Our approach was to try to use materials that were chemical free and as close to recyclable as possible. The insulation in the floors is recycled glass, and the walls and ceilings use wood-fibre boards instead of plasterboard and are finished off with a breathable clay plaster finish. The extensions are built using timber-framed construction in Douglas fir and match the new windows and glass doors. Any new works to the stone walls used lime

SUSTAINABLE LIVING

For the floor insulation, Ed chose a new system of recycled glass pellets from glasscrete, which is held together with a series of breathability fabric liners. The glasscrete’s impressive compressive strength can sit underneath the slab and wraps around the footings to give a completely lined base to the building.

The thermal performance ensures that the underfloor heating worked to its maximum potential, even in the exposed vaulted spaces of the barn.

Externally, cladding was done with cedar shingles to match the hanging clay tiles from neighbouring properties. This allows the cedar to naturally silver over time to bed the extension into its surroundings against the pale Bargate stone.

B V d "g !aQe E a I

When asked if there were any materials he would recommend to others looking to renovate or self build, Ed responded: “Companies like Mike Wye and Natural Building Technologies have a great selection of products to consider against the more standard construction materials.

Wood-fibre insulation add both thermal and acoustic properties to walls and ceilings, making them an excellent alternative to the chemicalladen plasterboards often used in construction. Clay or lime plasters can be pigmented to give the final colour, reducing labour times between the standard approach of plastering and then decorating. The clay allows the walls or ceilings to breathe and filter the air within the rooms.”

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mortar to correspond with the original construction techniques. Our new flatroof areas are finished off with green sedum living roofs to absorb rainfall and reduce our surface water runoff into the nearby sewers.”

This use of sedum green roofs not only increases the house’s capacity to stop surface water runoff into the mains sewer system but also improves thermal performance and finally gives the neighbours wildflower views which they continue to comment on.

Other than Douglas fir, selected for its lower price point over oak and its durability, Ed took the opportunity to integrate materials and systems to create a healthy building that has flexibility for the young family to grow.

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An air source heat pump was installed, with a complete wet underfloor heating system laid within the concrete slab foundation throughout the house, which will work in tandem with solar panels and battery storage to lower the heating bills by 80% in the long term.

Ed explains: “We needed to upgrade our gas boiler and water cylinder, so we chose to cap off the gas supply, switch to an air source heat pump, and run the house entirely on electric. The project’s design allowed for additional sustainable elements, such as the roof, which we’ve prepared to install solar panels and an electric car charging point later.”

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Describing the building’s connection with its surrounding area and revealing what the local community thinks, Ed adds: “With the excavation to the west, we now have direct access into the garden from the main living spaces. We have small amounts of glazing to the south, but we opened up the northern facade to fill the house with light.

The glass walkway can slide open in the warm summer months, allowing the whole place to flow between the different courtyards.

“We’ve received lots of positive comments from our neighbours and passers-by, who frequently ask if they can pop their heads in to see what we’ve created. The green sedum roofs aren’t visible to us, but they give the local neighbours bright, natural colours to look at instead of flat, grey asphalt roofscapes.”

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SUSTAINABLE LIVING

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Ed admits: “I don’t think we could quite imagine how spacious the house would feel once all the vaulted ceilings were exposed and the original mezzanine above the kitchen taken down. The original house was cold and dark, with barely any lighting. We now have light-filled rooms and flexible spaces to enjoy as a family.

“The glass corridor addition allowed all the bedrooms to use the full depth of the original building. This has really helped ensure we have decent-sized bedrooms, while the ability to open the walkway to the courtyard during the summer months is a special treat for us.

“To the west elevation, we built a new dining pod that sits off the main kitchen. A large set of windows sits almost at ground level, meaning we can relax and enjoy the view of our wild flower bank and the nature around us.”

Woodthorpe Stables When asked if there was anything theLong pair Existing Section would have done differently, Ed confessed: “When 1:100 @ A4 we bought the property, the existing roof had been replaced in the last 10 years and was in excellent condition. This meant we decided to spend our budget elsewhere in the project and insulate from underneath/inside the property.

Adding insulation between and underneath the rafters has meant we’ve lost sight of the original purlins exposed as part of the original hay barn structure. It would have added an extra £10,000 to £15,000 onto our build, but maybe on reflection, we could have removed the roof and started afresh, giving us more viewWoodthorpe of theStables original Existing Street Elevation character internally.

“Would I do it again?” reiterated Ed. “Yes, 1:100 @ A4 definitely. It was a great learning experience and an opportunity to try new things and test sustainable materials. If we ever take on another project as a family, it would be a self-build from scratch.”

Offering his professional guidance to anyone looking to renovate or self build, Ed reveals: “The beauty of architecture is that there is never a right or wrong answer. Our advice at Delve Architects would always be to explore the options and possibilities at the beginning of a project.

Stables This lets you consider what is rightWoodthorpe and best for Proposed Cross Section you before moving into the more costly stages of detailed design and onsite works. 1:100 @ A4 “Work with an architect who you feel you can talk things over with and who will give you the best advice possible on the different routes to take. Make sure you provide the contractors with a complete set of architectural drawings and written costing documents to avoid confusion on site and ensure that everyone is on the same page in terms of what is and isn’t included with the specification.

“Finally, have a clear sense of timings, Woodthorpe Stables finance and your desired scope upfront. InitiateProposed Rear Elevation 1:100 @ A4 conversations with potential contractors as early as possible and look for a good match to work with people who appreciate what you are trying to achieve.”

The designs completed at Woodthorpe Stables allow for future phases of construction work to create a new entranceway into the property and a final pitched extension that will ultimately house an additional bedroom and bathroom for Ed and his family.

www.delvearchitects.com I BUILDmJUNEm**

Woodthorpe Stables Existing North Elevation 1:100 @ A4

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www.sureset.co.uk )/ FC&A Quarter Page – 91 mm wide x 131 mm high.indd 1

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LIGHTING SIPS, ICF && FRAMING ELECTRICALS

The s lf- builder’s guide to i n s u l a t e d c o n r e t fo r m w k Self-builders are renowned for bringing individuality and vision to their dream property, but some materials can put limits on their imagination. Christopher Stride, Chairman of the Insulating Concrete Formwork Association (ICFA), explains why you should consider insulated concrete formwork (ICF).

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he decisions you make for your project will have implications on almost any level, yet choosing a straightforward but reliable build method will help to simplify the process. This is where insulated concrete formwork (ICF) comes in. If you’re new to self-building, you may (or may not) have heard of it, but the benefits it can bring are numerous.

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ICF consists of two panels of insulating material that combine to create a building block. Hailed by self-builders for its simplicity and speed of build, it can be the perfect choice for any project with construction completed in five quick steps.

1. Choose your supplier

Not all ICF systems are the same, and they can vary depending on the size of the blocks, material and insulation levels. In the UK, your ICF block will either be made from Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) or Woodcrete (a mix of recycled woodchips and cement). Speak to a few of our ICFA members to understand which ICF is best for you; they will also provide training on using their system.

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2. Design your home

Despite their dimensions, ICF blocks can create almost any design – from a traditional farmhouse to a contemporary home with bespoke shapes or curved walls. This allows you and your architect to set your creativity free. Get your supplier involved at this stage in the process; they have the expertise and technical resources to get the most out of your ICF build.

3. Build the wall

ICF has a lot of similarities to traditional brick- or block-laying techniques that contractors will be familiar with. ICF blocks stack and securely lock together through a raised profile along the edge. The process is incredibly quick, with a typical standard ground-floor layout of a home constructed in only a couple of days. You can use ICF for the entire build, whether it’s above or below ground, including basements. In fact, some conditions, such as corner windows and cantilevered openings, are easier to build with ICF than traditional methods.

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4. Pour the concrete

Walls are usually built in stages, typically ground-floor height first, before concrete is poured into a central cavity in the assembled blocks. Once the concrete has cured, the ICF blocks stay in place, and construction continues until you achieve full building height.

5. Finish the build

ICF systems easily work with a wide range of standard construction systems, materials and products such as door, floor and roof options. A wide range of facing materials can be applied internally and externally, including brick, stone, render or aluminium, to create the desired look for your home.

SIPS, ICF & FRAMING

It’s also essential to consider the in-use carbon emissions of the building. Studies into ICF structures show that they save far more CO 2 over their lifetime than the energy used during construction.

In an ICF building, the concrete core sits in direct contact with the insulating block. This creates an airtight structure that delivers exceptionally low U-values and excellent thermal mass reducing energy usage for heating and cooling your home. Monitored energy usage of a semi-detached fourbedroom house, with a basement and a useful floor area of 110m 2, demonstrates that heating and hot water costs work out as little as £5 per week.

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When you consider the entire process, ICF is a cost-effective option. Upfront material costs may be slightly higher, but these are quickly offset by savings made during construction and through ongoing energy savings once you’ve moved in.

The lightweight blocks can be easily moved by hand, which reduces the need for expensive heavy plant equipment. The speed and simplicity of the system reduce the number of contractors needed, and it may be possible to avoid the highlypaid skills of a bricklayer. This can save up to 60% in labour costs on a

straightforward single-storey course.

You will reach a watertight shell much sooner than traditional methods, allowing follow-on trades to enter and start putting utilities in place earlier in the programme. The build can also continue in most weather conditions, avoiding costly delays.

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At first glance, ICF isn’t a particularly sustainable build method due to the amount of carbon created during concrete production. The industry is working towards adopting new methods that aim to remove more carbon from the atmosphere than it produces.

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Increasingly, the UK is seeing the effects of adverse weather events. ICF under BS 85500:2015 Flood-Resilient Construction guidance is a recommended external wall method. If correctly designed and installed, the concrete structure has no voids and creates a watertight shell. In the event of flood damage, the insulating material in the walls remains water resistant, with months of delays caused by drying out avoided.

In terms of avoiding extreme events, the insulated solid wall structure also creates its own natural fire suppression system. Concrete will not burn and can withstand incredibly high temperatures, and the solid core in the ICF wall will create an almost impenetrable shell that prevents fire from spreading internally or externally. Most ICF walls offer a fire protection rating of up to four hours.

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It goes without saying that financing any self-build can be challenging. There are plenty of options available, but you will need to approach companies in advance to understand their requirements. As an insulated solid wall construction method, ICF is considered by the Council of Mortgage Lenders as a standard system if manufactured by an ICFA member.

www.icfa.org.uk I BUILDmJUNEm**

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hen asked what inspired the pair to take on the project, Christian described the property as: “The worst place on the best street.” However, with a sharp eye for interior and exterior designled opportunities, the innovative duo recognised the property’s full potential. “The house was dilapidated,

but it had good bones,” recalls Christian. “It has always been our dream to test our ideas and live in a high-performing, low-energy home.

“The condition of the existing building was very poor. “After years of water damage, the ceiling of the existing infill bathroom was black with mould. The property had very little ventilation, the windows were all single glazed, and

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the whole interior was generally damp.

Overcoming these issues was the biggest challenge for us. Unfortunately, almost all of the original features had been butchered by the conversion into flats years ago. And when it came to planning, there were some risks as we were the first on the terrace to extend.

What’s more, we’re located within a conservation area.”

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However, following an arduous eight-month period, Christian and Faye worked to overcome all the challenges associated with renovating and remodelling – including planning permission hurdles and prefabrication difficulties in communal spaces within the area – and completed their dream home design.

Christian explains how the pair approached the insulation specification for this project with sustainability in mind.

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“As the property is terraced, we needed to improve the thermal performance of the building from the inside. We eliminated persistent damp and extreme mould using sustainable solutions – that was the key to the success of our retrofit project. Our approach was to be as natural, breathable and low carbon as possible.

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“After looking for sustainable products that would bond well with the existing building materials and address the range of issues within the apartment, we came across Lime Green. The brand offered healthy and natural products, which could be used in various applications and solve multiple problems. To insulate the internal boundary walls and ceilings, we selected Lime Green’s Warmshell solution – an internal insulation system comprising board adhesive, woodfibre boards and a breathable plaster coat.

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URBAN SANCTUARY

“To finish the walls and ceilings, we chose Solo, a one-coat lime plaster. Finally, to protect the bathroom from water damage, we used Silic8 Silguard, a breathable water repellent. Instead of rendering directly onto the wood-fibre boards, we used plasterboard between to further enhance the building’s thermal, fire and noise performance. The Solo plaster then created an airtight layer on top.

“One particular brick wall was bowed, so it needed additional support. The Warmshell system, along with some wooden batons, offered that support. The Warmshell system helped us to resolve a variety of issues. It’s an internal system, so we could use it to insulate the property from the inside as the external insulation route was not possible due to being located within a conservation area.

It improved the breathability too and is excellent at reducing outdoor noise. As the materials in the system are natural, they ring true to how the building was originally designed and constructed.”

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Christian continues: “We’re delighted with the results.

Visually, the lime plaster looks great. It has a traditional off-white colour, which can be difficult to find nowadays.

The whole system has created a natural and calm space. In combination with the mechanical ventilation system, the natural materials have created a really clean indoor air quality, which is so important – in London especially. The acoustic separation is also beneficial – we can barely hear any outside noise.

“The thermal performance of the Warmshell system is brilliant. It’s great for managing temperature shifts, as it holds heat and releases it when temperatures drop overnight, which is exactly how a building should operate.

I already have two or three other projects where we’re using the Warmshell system and Solo plaster.”

www.lime-green.co.uk www.christianbrailey.com I BUILDmJUNEm**

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IMPRESSIVE INNOVATION

Ma king ro m fo r amily ife Award-winning, design-led architecture practice, SSK Architects, achieved planning approval on a corner site in north-west London for a double-storey, side-to-rear, wrap-around extension flush with the boundary. In this article, we talk to Sandeep Saddal, Architectural Technologist at SSK Architects and the architect in charge of the project, about the planning and design details behind the extension and find out more about the build process from the homeowners, Phil and Joy Walker.

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hen purchasing our property seven years ago, we knew its potential,” explains Joy. “We were inspired by shows, such as Grand Designs, and exhibitions we had attended. Creating something from scratch that had our total input, from inception to completion, was something that we had always planned on doing. It was just a case of waiting until the right moment to start the work.

“This was the first property that we purchased based on its potential, knowing that we could put our stamp on it and create our own family home.

Little did we know back then that it would mean essentially demolishing the building and starting again!”

Sandeep adds: “Internally, Joy and Phil wanted a modern design style and a major reconfiguration, which eventually transformed into a semidemolition with only the front wall and party wall being retained.”

“The building was constructed in the 1930s by two brothers who created two semi-detached homes,” resumes Joy. “Therefore, there were only two previous owners before we had moved in. It was a slightly smallerthan-average, semi-detached house with a cottage-like feel.”

IMPRESSIVE INNOVATION

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Joy summarises: “We started the planning process with SSK Architects in October 2019 and agreed on plans by July 2020. We went through the pre-planning stage and the formal application.”

Explaining more about the planning strategy, Sandeep adds: “Hillingdon Council’s first-floor side extension requirements typically require 1 to 1.5m from the boundary. However, by using neighbouring precedents and a sympathetic design approach, we showed how our design would not be overly dominant from the street scene and retain views around the corner site.”

“We were keen to retain the original features at the front of the house,” recounts Joy. “This has meant keeping the sash windows and plain white render at the front to keep within the style of the original property’s features. However, the back of the house has a contemporary feel with large glass sliding doors and anthracite windows.

“We had a good idea of what we wanted ourselves through the design brief; however, having a good relationship with our architects made it easy to refine aspects when needed.

“The vision was to create a family home with several rooms that flowed from one space to another.

At the heart of this would be a big kitchen/dining family room, which would be the hub of the house and a place where we could entertain guests and spend time together as a family.”

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Talking through the challenges the couple overcame, Joy expresses: “The most challenging aspect of the build was embarking on such a large project during the height of the pandemic. Restrictions meant that we were limited to seeing items in person when it came to elements such as final fittings – this involved a lot of Zoom calls. We were lucky that we weren’t affected by the cost increase or delay in building materials!

“We project managed the build from start to finish while living with parents a short distance away, which allowed for daily site visits and the ability to assess progress and address any queries. We worked with SSK Architects during the planning stage of the process.

Our architect was very helpful throughout the build when we had quick questions.

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IMPRESSIVE INNOVATION

“We approached material specification via copious amounts of spreadsheets and the use of online reviews. Site visits were reasonably limited; however, our contractors did an excellent job of communicating milestones, which allowed us to build in the time needed to review materials and products. We also developed good relationships with staff in some trade stores to help with advice on the best products that would be most suitable for the project.”

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Joy continues: “In total, the project took 10 months to complete – this was two months over the initial timescale. The delay was primarily due to the start of the process because of the piling foundation needed. We moved in on the day that the builders finished work.

“Financially, we mostly stayed on track during the build; however, as mentioned, the start of the process was heavily impacted by the need to have a piling foundation, which we hadn’t accounted for. Near the end of the project, we did go over slightly due to the final fittings.

We were fortunate to have a relative who worked for a bathroom company, which meant we offset some of the overspending against the savings we could make. In total, we were approximately £20,000 over budget.”

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“The front exterior of the property is rendered in an off-white smooth finish with white sash windows and a light grey/green front door with stained-glass windows and a side panel,” depicts Joy. “The rear exterior of the property has exposed brick, large, modern anthracite windows and sliding doors providing a more contemporary feel.”

Moving inside, Sandeep explains: “We were keen to use features throughout the house. This is shown through the matte blue kitchen units, lighting features, statement, ‘tropical’ WC, exposed brick and Crittall-style doors within the open-plan kitchen/ dining/living area, and the panelled walls in the lounge and bedrooms.

Large skylights and vaulted ceilings also create a sense of openness at the rear of the property. We achieved our goal of creating an exciting view everywhere you look.”

“The ground floor comprises a wider, L-shaped hallway,” continues Joy. “There is a living room to the front of the house that has been made larger by extending into the garage space, a downstairs WC, utility room and open-plan kitchen/ diner/family room. The latter features glass sliding doors spanning the room’s width, 3m internal glass doors and a side panel as a divider to the hallway.

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IMPRESSIVE INNOVATION

“What’s more, the house benefits from underfloor heating throughout the ground floors with different control zones, smart lighting and other features, including automated blinds.

“Travelling up to the first floor, there are three bedrooms, a study and a family bathroom. The master bedroom also has a small walk-in wardrobe and an en-suite bathroom. The landing area has sun tunnels in place, as does the office, to ensure that the rooms/areas utilise natural light.

“Internally, the front and back of the property have a different feel, with gold fixtures and fittings and wooden panelling in the rooms facing the front of the house. Black nickel fixtures and fittings feature towards the rear to match the anthracite windows and doors.”

When asked what she loves most about her new home, Joy replied: “Our new home provides us with everything our old house lacked. We have an open-plan family room as a hub that we longed for, where all of us can be using the same space for different purposes yet still be together. We love how much natural light we get into all of our rooms the most. Through large sliding doors, stained glass, internal glass doors and sun tunnels, we have achieved natural light in areas that would have previously been dark and unwelcoming.

“Our favourite room is the open-plan living/dining area. As the hub of the house, it does everything we wanted it to. In the summer months, the views of the garden and the heat that comes from the glass doors can make you feel like you’re in another country.

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“We think the building is in keeping with the surrounding landscape.

We were careful to stick with the original characteristics of the front house, which means it fits in with the surrounding properties. Large trees and greenery shield the back of the house from the surrounding gardens. The building makes the most of the views with immense 5.5m sliding doors and large windows in the back bedrooms overlooking the surroundings. Passers-by have always been keen to complement the build.”

When asked if she has any recommendations for other budding home renovators, Joy advised: “All the cliches – planning and budgeting is key. Ensure you go with architects and builders that you have a good relationship with, as you will be working with them closely throughout the project.”

www.sskarchitects.com

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LIGHTING TOOLS & EQUIPMENT & ELECTRICALS

Top 10 to ls ev ryself-builder

s h o u l d h a ve i n t h e i r k t

Embarking on a self-build project or home renovation? Beginning a project such as this can be not only exciting but also extremely daunting. Before the job has begun, it can often feel as if there are a million things to think about, and it’s easy for what seemed like a small, manageable project to fly out of hand. One thing that can make the experience a lot smoother and eradicate unnecessary stress is having the right tools for the job.

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here are some basic tools that every self-builder or aspiring home renovator needs in their toolbox. Here, Laura Green, Commercial Trading Manager LBM at Gibbs & Dandy, gives essential advice on the top 10 tools every self-builder should have in their arsenal.

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A good set of pliers are an asset to any tool kit. Pliers come in a variety of different shapes and sizes for many different uses. Some are designed for cutting or twisting wire, while others can be used to grip nails or pipes.

There are plenty of multipurpose pliers on the market as well as kits that supply you with a variety for any task, whichever works for you. From flat nose pliers to fencing pliers, there’s a pair for every job.

Wrenches and spanners of varying sizes are also a must. Many people misguidedly think that a wrench and a spanner perform the same task and, therefore, believe they can get by with one or the other. But whilst adjustable, wrenches are typically quite bulky tools – especially around the jaws – which can make it extremely cumbersome to complete tasks in a narrow space or perform precision work. You can even run the risk of I BUILDmJUNEm**

rounding a fastening, which will not only lead to frustration but also the cost of replacement.

Yet another tool that we would recommend investing in is a large set of screwdrivers. Most households have a few screwdrivers knocking about, hidden in a junk drawer, ready for any odd task such as opening a battery compartment or prizing open a rusty paint can. But for a self-builder, a pristine, complete set of screwdrivers is invaluable.

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Sometimes to build things up, you first need to knock things down, making a sledgehammer an endlessly useful tool. However, always remember to practice caution, wearing goggles to protect from splinters and gloves to improve grip. Additionally, a crowbar can be particularly handy for a variety of renovation work, such as dismantling walls, floors, ceilings and other structures. A prybar is also versatile enough to assist with small jobs like opening cans of paint, removing floor tiling and even reupholstering furniture.

Hammers are a builder’s best friend; there’s a reason why Bob the Builder is never pictured without his hammer in his hand or trustily hooked to his hip. You

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are bound to encounter a project that needs nailing down, or perhaps, you’ve discovered a mistake that needs the nails prizing off. It always pays to have a hammer hanging from your tool belt.

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Clamps are versatile tools that serve to hold work securely in place temporarily. Therefore, these can be used for many different tasks, including DIY carpentry, woodworking, furniture making, welding, cutting, metal working and many more.

We always recommend tools with multipurpose functionality to save on budget and lugging around lots of heavy equipment.

One of the tasks we often use clamps for is securing a long board whilst it’s cut to the desired length, which brings us on to the next top tool every selfbuilder should have in their kit, hand saws. It’s to be expected that when working on a project, you will have plenty of materials that need cutting to size, and there’s nothing worse than lining something up against a wall and finding that you only need to cut off an inch but don’t have a small saw to hand. Most self-builders have a selection of hand saws of different sizes and with fewer or more teeth depending on the task at hand.

TOOLS & EQUIPMENT

Once your wood is cut, there may still be some preparation to be done which is where the chisel comes in handy; it’s useful for cutting, gouging, carving and generally adding the finishing touches to your materials. Be sure to dispose of cracked or bent chisels, though, as these could ruin your materials with miscuts or irregular denting.

Keep your chisels sharp, and they will make quick work of shaving rough surfaces, chopping corners and scraping off glue.

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Finally, perhaps the simultaneously most simple and most important tool, essential for anyone’s kit is the humble tape measure. You would be surprised by the number of people who overlook measuring tools and subsequently waste product, time and on occasion, ultimately ruin their project. It’s important to not only measure but measure again and perhaps even a third time if you are unsure. A common saying in the industry is ‘measure twice, cut once’.

A project can be made or broken based on a mere few centimetres.

www.gibbsanddandy.com

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I-SCAPE THE LAWN ASSOCIATION

Toptisobfremwng Mowing the lawn – something we all do and reckon we all do well? Well, yes and no – it’s certainly not something you can do with your mind on auto-pilot; and following a few expert tips will help you get the very best from your mowing regime, writes David Hedges Gower, Chairman of the Lawn Association.

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hroughout my career, I have seen that most people (and sorry, yes, that may include you) put in the time but still don’t do as good a job as they could. And the problem with this is that the knock-on effect gives you a lot more trouble when it comes to other parts of your lawn care.

So, let’s look at some things that are often not done well enough and correct them to make your life a little easier and your grass a lot happier.

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This is probably the single biggest mistake that leads to a poor lawn. The crime is to cut too short – and there are usually two reasons for this – either we don’t cut often enough and make up for it with a crew cut, or we dream of centre-court or golf course conditions and are forever cutting it shorter and shorter.

Modern everyday lawns like yours and mine should never be cut lower than 25mm, and when conditions are not conducive to growing grass (hot summer periods and winter), be prepared to lift the height to protect the lawn.

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Now is usually an excellent time for strong grass growth, so it’s easy to worry about how often to mow. And sure, when it’s growing faster, you’ll need to mow a little more often. After all, a sign of healthy grass is good growth rates – so don’t be too grumpy if yours needs more regular cutting at this time of year.

When the grass is growing well, it thickens up – and regular mowing helps to encourage more sideways growth, giving you the fullest lawn for the summer months ahead.

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You’ll have heard the folklore that changing the mowing direction is good. Well, it is. It’s particularly effective on old, traditional grass mixtures but is still good practice even on a dwarf ryegrass sward. And it gives your lawn and garden new perspectives, especially if your mower creates stripes. Grain can cause issues when mowing, and mowing in different directions helps stop that.

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This is the key to success and a happy, healthy lawn.

Of course, this won’t be practical for most people, but remember – every time you mow with a blunt mower blade, you blunt the leaf blade. This will quickly turn the grass yellow as it loses its ability to take up food and water. So, sharpen as often as you can, and your lawn will thank you for it.

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The British weather can play a part in mowing lawns, especially when an unexpected shower makes us run back to the house and suggest we leave the mowing this week. Mower heights are essential but so is every occasion following a period when we haven’t been able to mow the lawn. A mistake is always made when after a few weeks without mowing, we decide to keep the mower on the normal height setting. This often results in an instantly yellow lawn. Learn to reduce the height down to its normal position over a week or two so that the plant doesn’t get yellow and stressed.

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Although it seems obvious, this is one sometimes forced upon our better judgement due to our weather patterns and busy lives. A mower (rotary) is like a very fast spinning slash hook that relies on sharpness and a dry leaf blade to get the best effect for the lawn. Where possible, the morning dew can be blown off the lawn in the morning, so by the afternoon, you have a dry leaf blade, perfect for mowing. This can be even more true during winter when topping your lawn off can be very advantageous.

I-SCAPE - G R E N H O U S E S THE LAWN ASSOCIATION

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Many lawns fail for several reasons, and in our modern world, that can be down to not having enough time to mow the lawn. If that’s the case, choosing a robot mower may be perfect.

Alternatively, picking a roller mower can be essential in creating some beautiful stripes that many long for. A mulching mower can also be a great choice if disposing of grass clippings is an issue.

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Part of the quintessential English garden is a nice lawn with crisp edges. So much so that if the edges aren’t trimmed regularly, it can spoil the look of a lawn and the herbaceous borders. Edging shears never seem to go out of fashion, but battery-powered edgers are slowly filling a niche. And the more often you trim those edges, the neater your lawn will look.

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A cylinder brings memories of short, cropped, manicured lawns, and you’d be right. If you are after a short, regularly mown lawn, then a cylinder will be just for you. Able to cut down to heights of around 10mm, they will give you that perfect lawn finish. However, short does guarantee the quality of a lawn. But the scissor action of a cylinder against a blade should mean you ‘cut’ the grass much better than a rotary mower (if sharp, of course).

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Preparation is key to most things, and it certainly is valid for lawn mowing. Moving twigs, leaves, stones, toys, and other materials will ensure you give your lawn its very best chance.

www.lawnassociation.org.uk

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I-BUILD HERRINGBONE KITCHENS

n ehc tik lufs ec usTi a gniv eihca ro f sp tra s eht mo rf r edisnoc t ah w dna oisn etx e Home improvements have seen a real increase in the two years since the pandemic started and are still proving incredibly popular. This often includes kitchen extensions in all shapes and sizes as they are great ways to add value to your home, add the wow factor with multiple uses and create extra space without having to move, writes William Durrant, Owner of Herringbone Kitchens.

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here is no rule for how big or small you have to go to fit in the kitchen of your dreams; however, when you start to consider your space, budget and needs, ensure it fits with your family situation and lifestyle now and in the future.

There are different kinds of extensions; however, the most popular are usually broken down into small and large, open-plan as well as glass extensions. The main elements to consider for each are the following.

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With a small kitchen extension, it’s all about maximising space. When it comes to your work surface, make sure you invest in items that don’t take up too much space, such as a Quooker tap and/or an induction hob for ease of cleaning and additional work space. What’s more, make sure you create a light space to make the area seem bigger, so go for a light-coloured worktop and work with the light in the room.

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Open-plan extensions are very impressive and make for a lovely social space. What is important is that you consider the airflow, so make sure you get a powerful extractor, such as a Bora downdraft hob/ extractor, for cleanliness. Also, islands are almost essential to these spaces because they join the rooms together and add sociable seating. Bespoke units, such as breakfast bars or pantry larders, add storage, style and impact to open-plan areas. It is all about considering how you use the space daily and making it work for you.

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Glass kitchen extensions are major features in homes, so you want to make them stand out but also functional. Flooring is essential here. Make sure you go for a continuous flow to the external area, so the inside and outside are joined as one. You can also be bold with colour choice due to the light in the room, making it possible to go for dark statement colours such as black cabinetry.

I-BUILD - E X T E N S I O N S HERRINGBONE KITCHENS

Planning for any project is, of course, essential, therefore, when it comes to planning a kitchen extension, consider the following: Research: When starting your kitchen extension design process, gathering ideas and inspiration always gives the best outcome.

Instagram and Pinterest are great ways to find and save inspiring images that will give you a better idea of how you imagine your kitchen to look.

Planning: When planning an extension, visit your kitchen designer with your plans after you have had your planning permission accepted.

This should avoid the need to compromise on your design later on, and your designer will be able to provide your builder with drawings of your kitchen design.

Mood boards: When meeting with your designer, provide them with as much information as possible about the space and what you want to achieve with the design. Pinterest inspiration boards will help you to visualise the project better and communicate the overall mood you want to evoke with your scheme.

Don’t forget lighting: When planning lighting for your kitchen, look at the space you have and think about how much light it gets throughout the day.

If the space is lacking in natural light, there are some lovely options for introducing light in the places you need it.

Layout: When planning your layout, think about the time you spend in your kitchen and what you want to use the space for. Make sure the layout considers all of your needs and is functional for everyone using the space.

Colour: When choosing colours, handles and tiles, go with your instinct and choose something you love. When choosing paint colours or wallpaper, paint big samples and put them on the wall. You’ll be able to see how the colour changes through the day, and you will get a better feel for it.

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It is difficult to estimate exactly how much a kitchen extension will be as it completely depends on the size of the extension and the age of the property, as well as whether you are going for a bespoke kitchen or off the shelf.

Above all, enjoy the creative process and focus on creating a space that makes you feel good and that you’ll enjoy for a lifetime.

Kitchens are for living in, after all.

www.herringbonekitchens.com I BUILDmJUNEm**

I-NTERIOR HOWDENS

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")kab)VQLVT))E"g Choosing the right flooring for your next renovation project can feel like a daunting task, mainly because there are so many options now available and knowing where to start can be tricky.

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laire Toomey, Senior Category Buyer, Head of Flooring & Joinery, from Howdens, explores all things LVT, what you can do to prepare for installation and how to look after your LVT flooring once it’s installed.

One choice of flooring that has grown in popularity (and with good reason) over the last few years is luxury vinyl tile, or LVT flooring. It is a low-maintenance alternative to stone or wood flooring as the advancements in printing technology allow for these materials to be replicated, but without the maintenance often associated with these natural materials. It is especially worth considering in areas with high footfall or where water is present, like kitchens and bathrooms, though it is worth noting that it isn’t suitable for use in wetrooms.

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LVT flooring tends to be available to purchase either as a flexible or rigid plank or tile in 4 to 6/6mm thickness. It comprises several layers of vinyl, all of which do a different job, from the photo-realistic print to a quartz-enhanced coating that prevents light scratches and scuffs.

New advancements have meant that companies, such as Howdens, have launched LVT flooring that features the addition of limestone in the core and includes an integrated underlay.

This makes it easy to install, provides stability in areas of high temperature and helps to soften noise so that the flooring is ‘silent’ underfoot.

Rigid LVT flooring is also available in a herringbone format, with a wood-effect finish which is widely favoured for its elegant, timeless look.

One of the significant advantages of LVT flooring is the graphic process used during manufacturing, which makes it a superior choice compared to sheet or roll vinyl. The graphic I B U I L D m AU J U <U m N E*m( * *

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process used when manufacturing LVT flooring means that it is superior to that used for sheet or roll vinyl. It features non-repeat, high-resolution imaging, with timber grain or stone-like markings embossed onto the graphic layer.

On wood-effect timber, the different species, colours and grain patterns actually appear very much like the real thing. In comparison, stone-effect LVT comes in an array of colours and styles, from dark grey through to cream and beige and even marble with its unique veining.

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LVT flooring is extremely hard wearing and resilient, which is why Howdens offers a 30-year guarantee for domestic use on their rigid vinyl.

However, LVT’s durability is in part due to it being fitted correctly by a professional tradesperson, especially in bathrooms where it is critical to ensure it remains waterproof and also ensures you receive the highest quality service and product.

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Flexible LVT can become more rigid when cold, making installation difficult and compromising the product’s click system when the room is brought up to temperature and the flooring ‘relaxes’; this can cause gapping in joints.

If acclimatised correctly, the tiles or planks will be uniformly conditioned, and the locking system won’t be compromised. In fact, skipping the proper acclimation process can void your warranty.

I-NTERIOR - T I L I N G HOWDENS

LVT flooring is compatible with most underflooring heating systems. The exception to this is electric mats. All other systems must be embedded in a screed layer to avoid connecting to the flooring directly, but we would always recommend checking with your installer first.

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The key to good installation of your new floor is for your subfloor to be level, smooth and clean.

You should ideally remove any existing flooring, and if your subfloor is uneven, you’ll probably need to call in an expert to take a look and rectify the problem. Generally, your LVT fitter should be able to do this for you and can advise before they start laying your new flooring.

In some cases, LVT can be laid over your existing floor if it meets the proper criteria. This saves both time and money.

There are several different installation systems available, from click systems which slot together to those which need to be glued down. At Howdens, all our LVT flooring has click-fitting systems, making it easy to fit and comfortable underfoot as it tends to be thicker than glue down options.

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1. If your LVT flooring is used in a room with a door to the outside, a doormat is one of the best things you can invest in. It is much easier to keep dirt off your new floor than to try and remove it. Doormats will also trap any extra moisture from shoes which helps to prolong the life of the LVTs. 2. Removing any dirt and dust from your floors with a quick vacuum regularly will leave your LVT flooring looking clean and tidy with minimal effort.

We would recommend using furniture pads too under any moveable items such as dining chairs and tables etc.

3. Spills are inevitable, especially in areas such as your kitchen. Try to remove these as quickly as possible, but if you don’t get to them in time, specialist cleaning chemicals can help. Still, check the label, as not all of them are suitable for use with LVT. 4. Rubber and LVT floors don’t mix very well. Avoid mats with rubber underlay, and if you use furniture castors, check these are rubber free, too, as they can cause stains which can be very hard to get out.

www.howdens.com

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LEGAL & BUSINESS NEWS SHOW PREVIEW: THE SOUTHERN HOMEBUILDING & RENOVATING SHOW | 25-26TH JUNE 2022

The Southern Homebuilding & Renovating Show returns for 2022 Returni g to Sandow Park fom 52 to 6th June 20 , the Southern oHmebuild ng & Renovating Show il featur over 180 exhib tors showcasing thousand of prducts and services, including modern ergy and eco information frm su tain b lity exp rts.

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any of the 20 free daily seminars and masterclasses will cover relevant topics, including structural insulated panels, energy efficiency, underfloor heating (choosing the right system to maximise performance), how to heat your home, eco windows and much more.

On hand at this year’s show will be ‘DIY SOS’ and ‘60 Minute Makeover’ Interior Designer, Julia Kendell. With over 30 years’ experience as an interior design professional, property renovator and kitchen specialist,

Julia will impart her knowledge on interior transformations that uplift and energise to impact wellbeing positively. She will be highlighting her new ‘Virtual Room Design Service’ that provides online interior expertise to those needing help with creating wellfunctioning one-off rooms.

A key area at the show will be The Advice Centre, sponsored by Internorm, where homeowners can discuss their project ideas with industry leaders. By booking their exclusive 15-minute ‘Ask the

© G etty Images

© D arren Chung

surrey.homebuildingshow.co.uk

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Expert’ consultations, visitors have access to interactive sessions with property expert Michael Holmes, eco expert David Hilton, design expert Allan Corfield, building expert Bob Branscombe, finance expert Tom McSherry and planning expert Sally Tagg.

Sally will also be present at The Planning Clinic, where people can find out the tactics for a successful, straightforward planning process.

People who have successfully finished a project will also be present to share their experiences with those at the beginning of their journey.

Visitors keen to learn more about the design, planning and construction process are recommended to book an Ask the Architect consultation, where chartered specialists can assist with consumers’ specific issues.

Members of the Federation of Master Builders will guide people in booking an Ask the Builder session on hiring accredited, highly-skilled construction workers.

One-day tickets to the Surrey Homebuilding & Renovating Show are £8 in advance, and two-day tickets are £12 in advance (children under 16 go free). For more details and to book tickets, please visit the website below.

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LEGAL & BUSINESS PRODUCT GUIDE ADVERTORIAL: ABODE | AMTICO | F.BALL | KEYSTONE

Amtico expands Décor LVT collection

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ritish flooring manufacturer Amtico

has expanded its precisioncut, artisan-style Décor LVT collection with new colourways, patterns and borders. Amtico Décor, created using products from the premium Signature collection, now boasts combinations from the Colour Edit palettes. Evocative of Victorian-era tiled floors, the Classic and Geo laying patterns have been refreshed with six new colourways for a more contemporary feel. Classic’s kaleidoscopic shapes have been enhanced with two heritageinspired colour combinations – Aquamarine and Goldstone – for a modern take on an enduring pattern. Elsewhere, Geo’s simple square geometry is now available in four timeless colourways with neutral shades from Colour

www.amtico.com 0121 745 0800 info@amtico.com

Edit’s Diffusion and Stucco palettes.

F. Ball’s System LVT range delivers grand design

Pronteau Propure commissioned for eco water tower project

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roducts from F. Ball and Co.’s System LVT range,

including the company’s fast-track, fibre-reinforced transitional adhesive, Styccobond F58 PLUS, have been used to install luxury vinyl tiles in an ambitious, modern selfbuild property in rural Cambridgeshire. Contractors from 4 Floor

Ab o d e , a w rd - w i n i n g d e s i g n e r a n d i s t r i b u t o r o f m a r k e t - l e a d i n g k i t c h e n t a p s , s i n k s , b a t h ro m t a p s a n d s h o w e r i n g s o l u t i o n s , h a s b ro u g h t e c o - l u x e c o n v e n i e n c e t o a u n i q u e w a t e r t o w e r e s t o ra t i o n p ro j e c t i n Ca s t l e Ac re , oNr f o l k , w i t h Pro n t e a u – a h i g h - s p e c i f c a t i o n ra n g e o f s t e a m i n g h o t w a t e r t a p s w i t h e x c l u s i v e s a f e t y f e a t u re s .

Fittings began by thoroughly vacuuming the building’s concrete subfloor to remove dust and debris. F. Ball’s technical service team recommended treating the subfloor as a newly-installed screed for the purposes of moisture management, despite being installed months earlier, as it had been left exposed to the elements since. Therefore, F. Ball’s Stopgap F77 waterproof surface membrane was used to create a barrier to prevent excess subfloor

Paul Illingworth, Design Manager at Abode, says: “We were delighted to be a part of this project alongside property owner Dennis Pedersen and Tonkin Liu Architects, as they meticulously came together to reimagine a derelict industrial water tank into a contemporary, family home. Dennis purchased the water tower at auction for £20,000 in 2015 and project managed all the building work himself to save money and realise Tonkin Liu’s architectural vision with the help of a local builder.

“Following the addition of a new CLT timber tower and careful infilling, the original water tank is now an open-plan kitchen living space complete with Pronteau Propure four-in-one steaming hot water tap in an ultra-fashionable Urban Copper finish. Offering domestic cold, hot, filtered cold and up to 98° steaming hot water, the Propure hot water tap removes the need for a kettle and water-filter jugs, which take up valuable space and will save you time and money in the long run. As the property needs to cater to a family of four, the additional breakfast room on the second floor is also designed with a Pronteau Propure four-in-one to ensure the height of convenience, design continuity and eco luxury in the modern home and www.abodedesigns.co.uk living space.”

01226 283434

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www.f-ball.co.uk 01538 361633 mail@f-ball.co.uk

moisture from attacking adhesives and floorcoverings.

Keystone appoints Jemma Ison as Group Sustainability Manager

K

eystone Group has appointed Jemma Ison as Group

Sustainability Manager to help build decarbonisation into all business operations. Jemma, who has been with the group for five years, has played an integral part in developing Keystone’s sustainability strategy, which is based on three key sustainability pillars: ‘Our Nature’, ‘Our Resources’ and ‘Our People’. In her new role, Jemma has been invited to join the NHBC Foundation Expert Panel and also to work with BSI to support the development of sustainability criteria for construction materials.

This will provide clarity to the industry of high-quality but low-environmental impact products.

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www.keystonegroup.co.uk 028 8676 2184 info@keystonelintels.co.uk

PRODUCT GUIDE ADVERTORIAL: BLANCO | DRAINAGE SUPERSTORE | SETCRETE | EARTHBORN

BLANCO launches hygienic, hidden waste disposal solutions

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he hidden places in the home are,

arguably, the most cluttered and tricky to keep clean; no one sees them anyway? BLANCO UK has put paid to this notion with the company’s portfolio of innovative waste disposal solutions, part of the popular BLANCO UNIT concept. The UNIT has been designed for the busiest area of the kitchen and is intended to help customers create feature-rich, creative kitchen hubs.

The system combines sinks, taps, in-cabinet waste and organisation systems into innovative and flexible solutions for modern kitchen life. BLANCO offers three waste disposal models depending on the size of the kitchen.

www.blanco.co.uk

01923 635200

Dig into landscaping solutions with Drainage Superstore

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rom small backyards to larger lawns, online

merchant Drainage Superstore has a variety of landscaping

Silicate masonry paint for all surfaces

and gardening solutions to help breathe new life into your piece of the great outdoors. Drainage Superstore’s extended range now includes everything from garden sheds and summer houses to fencing, decking and paving, plus a

Fo r y e a r s , c u s t o m e r s h a v e a s k e d i f t h e y c a n u s e E a r t h b o r’sn Si l i c a t e Ma s o n r y Pa i n t o n p re v i o u s l y p a i n t e d m a s o n r y . We l , n o w t h e y c a n .

variety of power and hand tools. As well as products to enhance outdoor areas, Drainage Superstore also offers a range of cleaning and maintenance products, including pressure washers, wood preservatives and tools. Suitable for trade and DIY jobs, customers

The newly-formulated Bonding Primer can be used alongside Silicate Masonry Paint for exterior masonry surfaces that do not need to breathe. This means that the 48 beautiful shades can be used on all buildings.

Bonding Primer provides a mechanical bond between a ‘sealed’ wall and the paint, allowing Silicate Masonry Paint to ‘stick’ to the pre-painted surface.

And in places where there is a mix of painted and unpainted masonry, you can now spot prime the patches where the previous paint cannot be removed with Bonding Primer and prime the rest of the unpainted area with Silicate Primer.

The updated Earthborn product range means that Silicate Primer used on uncoated masonry with Silicate Masonry Paint will create a highly-breathable and permanent chemical bond. On existing, sound, previously-painted surfaces (that don’t need to breathe), Bonding Primer used with Silicate Masonry Paint will create a strong mechanical bond.

Earthborn’s Silicate Masonry Paint has been used on a wide variety of buildings, including windmills, historic halls, new builds, seafront cottages and farmhouses.

This new primer means it can be used on an even wider range of buildings, including those with a mix of previously-painted and bare masonry, as requested by customers keen to achieve the best www.earthbornpaints.co.uk protection for 01928 734171 exterior masonry. sales@earthbornpaints.co.uk

can choose from various big brand names, including Shire, Kärcher, Ronseal and many more, with reliable deliveries straight to your door.

www.drainagesuperstore.co.uk 01752 692 221 sales@drainagesuperstore.co.uk

Setcrete unveils new product demonstration videos

S

etcrete has unveiled a new suite of product

demonstration videos for its range of floorlevelling compounds and complementary preparation products. The video library, found on its website, features all of the products in the Setcrete range, including best-selling levelling compounds: Setcrete High Performance, which is suitable for application over both concrete screeds and flexible substrates; Setcrete Deep Base, which can raise floor levels up to 50mm in a single application; and Setcrete Rapid Set 30 that is ‘walk-on hard’ from only 30 minutes. Each video explains the benefits of each product, where and how it can be used, the preparation required and the correct application process to deliver a perfect result.

www.setcrete.co.uk 01538 361633 lisa.shirley@f-ball.com

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LEGAL & BUSINESS PRODUCT GUIDE ADVERTORIAL: GIRA

Sustainable selfbuild with Gira switches in natural raw materials Gai,rone fth worlsd’eaingfula-resplir of intel g build ng so uti n for c m eial nd esridntalopre is,ha oburgtis w che toa familyhoe nrualCountryAntroim,heNnIreland.

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remote plot of land, a rather tight budget, and a young family’s dream of their own home – this was the starting point for the House in the Hollow, a unique project that has captivated thousands of followers on Instagram (@thehouseinthehollow). It all started with the birth of Gareth and Lindsey Boyd’s son, Archie. They soon realised they would need more space once he became a toddler. As an Architectural Technician, Gareth had always dreamed of building his own house – which came in handy, considering that the couple only had a budget of £160,000.

The Boyds put their house on the market in August 2017 to fund their self-build, which meant they needed to finish their new home as quickly as possible. They were looking for a rural site with plenty of space for Archie and their dogs, Buddy and Ivy. Luckily, Gareth found the perfect property a few months later.

Located in the countryside of County Antrim, Northern Ireland, the plot included a driveway, a preinstalled waterpipe and an electric pole in reach; enough for Gareth to get to work. The couple envisioned an open floor plan with a spacious kitchen, dining and living area at the centre of their home. Sustainability was also a major concern. Apart from using natural materials and finishes, they wanted to keep the building as energy efficient as possible.

For the finishing touches on their walls, the Boyds installed Gira Esprit switches in linoleum-plywood. The aesthetic immediately caught Gareth’s eye with its simplicity and attention to

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detail, combined with natural materials. The switches have a stylish and contemporary, yet understated, appeal – exactly what he was looking for.

They come with an optional push-button operation for integration into the smart home. The surrounds are fully compatible with sensors in the Boyd’s home so that all the thermostats and humidistats look alike. In fact, the switches tie in so well with the rest of the interior, they look as if they have been made for it.

Jacob Muijnck, Managing Director at Gira UK, says: “Building your own home is a hugely rewarding project and something many people aspire to do, so we were delighted to offer our award-winning Design Lines to the selfbuild market. Sustainability is a huge consideration for us throughout our business, including our product development. We are always keen to promote intuitive technology so that as many families as possible can have the utmost comfort and full control of their environment through using our switches, sockets and smart home systems. Designing with future needs in mind is critical for a self-build family home, so Gira has a range of options for Design Lines, including linoleum, stainless steel, aluminium, chrome and even glass. Our Gira Esprit linoleum-plywood range unites two natural materials that have always been popular with architects and designers, as well as proving robust and versatile.” www.gira.com 0203 936 8090 sales@gira.com

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The new Ultimate 2

In hindsight we wouldn’t have called it the Ultimate.

Because we just made it better.

High Heat Output ‘Screed heat diffuser’ improves contact with the pipe, which has a higher heat output and faster warm up than typical low build-up castellated screed systems, as well as minimising thermal striping.

Ultimate 2 High Performance Panel

Impressively thin 18mm highcompressive strength insulation provides an excellent substrate for the 9mm thin levelling screed, giving an overall system height of just 27mm – including insulation.

One panel Unique pattern minimises hand-routing and eliminates the need for separate ‘straight’ and ‘loop’ panels.

Generic Low Build Up Screeded Panel

Peel & Stick 50% faster to install with our self adhesive panel. Simply peel and stick to the subfloor and pour the levelling screed over.

Pre-Primed Pre-primed at the factory to save you time and cost.

Got a project in mind?

Call 01392 36 36 05 or visit omnie.co.uk

MADE IN GREAT BRITAIN

© OMNIE Limited 2021. All information correct at time of publication. Product information and performance characteristics are subject to change without notice. Please see omnie.co.uk for the latest information or contact your local representative.

OMNIE Limited, Unit 18, Apple Lane, Exeter, EX2 5GL 01392 36 36 05 customer.service@omnie.co.uk www.omnie.co.uk LowBoard®, TorFloor® and OMNIE® and the OMNIE logo are registered trademarks.

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An award winning company with over 30 years experience offering Bespoke solutions for the domestic market across the South East.

Including water supply, sewage treatment and renewable heating.

Feasibility can usually be determined with a site postcode.

WATER SUPPLY & SOAKAWAY BOREHOLES & DRAINAGE SOLUTIONS Independent water supply for irrigation or consumption* Soakaways, drainage fields and other drainage solutions.

Members of the WDA, we have been constructing boreholes across the South East since 1984 and aim to provide the highest quality cable-tool percussion-drilled borehole service available. *subject to analysis and suitable filtration

RENEWABLE HEATING Reduce heating bills by up to 50% Groundwater can be used as a heat source for an Open-Loop Ground Source Heat Pump which could meet all hot water and heating needs.

We are a fully MCS accredited and award winning company who aim to provide the highest quality service available in South East England.

Customers can rely on our advice and flexibility to suit individual requirements.

SEWAGE TREATMENT SYSTEMS Bespoke or package options Whether for domestic or commercial purposes, if there is no mains sewer connection a sewage treatment system may be the solution.

If you are not sure where to start contact us for an informal chat.

Our systems are designed to meet the needs of individual clients and comply with strict discharge legislation.

Servicing contracts are offered on all our installations. , , 792000 | www.hdservicesltd.co.uk enquiries@thehdgroup.co.uk | 01494 I BUILDmJUNEm**