NEWS / PRODUCT GUIDE

AQATA joins iconic shower brand Aqualux

Private investment business Intrinsic Equity has acquired AQATA. Based in Hinckley, Leicestershire, AQATA now joins Intrinsic Equity’s family of KBB- and design-related brands. Aqualux was acquired from Dutch bathroom giant Fetim in late 2019. Commenting on the acquisition, Group CEO Steve Lee stated: “We are delighted to be able to take this bold, strategic move during such unprecedented times. AQATA has been part of the fabric of the British shower industry since it was established by Peter Brown in 1986. We are proud to have the opportunity to continue the great work of MD and owner Jayne Barnes, who headed up AQATA for over 15 years following her father’s retirement in 2005.” www.aqata.co.uk 01455 896500 sales@aqata.co.uk

ASWS – the go-to expert for steel window replacement and refurbishment

Associated Steel Window Services (ASWS) is a familymanaged business now into its third generation and 60th year as a specialist steel window refurbishment and replacement company. It has evolved continuously since 1960 and is now a leading figure in the steel window industry. ASWS has been a member of the Steel Window Association since the late 1980s, working to optimise expertise in the industry. Established in 1960, the company started with a small client base working mainly for large insurance companies. Since the mid-‘80s, the company has grown considerably and moved into a more specialised field; that of replacement, refurbishment and redecoration of steel windows encompassing a complete site package. www.asws.co.uk 0208 665 5335 info@asws.co.uk

Marmox Multiboards carry marblemosaics across Cinque Port self-build

Astrikingly 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 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

VELUX smart tech roof window upgrade designed to help installers reap the benefits

Leading roof window manufacturer VELUX has introduced a new promotion which is set to make it easier for installers to promote the benefits of VELUX INTEGRA to their customers.

Running until the end of the year, homeowners purchasing VELUX INTEGRA electric and solar-powered roof windows* can receive a free VELUX ACTIVE with NETATMO kit worth £220. This complimentary upgrade will make it easier for installers to showcase the impact INTEGRA windows will have on their clients’ projects.

VELUX INTEGRA is an innovative system of roof windows, blinds and shutters that can be controlled with one touch of a pre-paired wall switch, with rain sensors automatically closing roof windows at the first sign of a downpour.

VELUX ACTIVE with NETATMO takes the INTEGRA range to the next level, offering total indoor climate control. Smart sensors continuously monitor temperature, humidity and CO2 levels in customers’ homes and adjust their roof windows to create a healthier indoor climate.

Windows can even be controlled when customers are on the go, thanks to the VELUX ACTIVE app, which is compatible with voice-controlled virtual assistants such as Apple’s Siri and Google Assistant.

The ACTIVE kit can be delivered to the property where the windows were installed and comes ready to fit and with full instructions included. This means that once it arrives, homeowners can install the kit themselves, saving installers time ahead of their next client project.

Installers can help customers take advantage of this offer until the end of December 2020, simply by creating a VELUX Rewards account and uploading their invoice. Approved purchases of VELUX INTEGRA roof windows will automatically generate an email with instructions to claim a free ACTIVE kit. *One free VELUX ACTIVE kit will be offered per invoice where a purchase of VELUX INTEGRA electric and solar roof windows has been made. Terms and conditions apply. See velux.co.uk/ activeupgrade for more details. www.velux.co.uk/activeupgrade 01592 778225 sales@velux.co.uk

H.D. Services continues ongoing customer support

Since COVID-19 found its way to our shores, H.D. Services has remained open to support its customers.

The company is taking all necessary precautions in relation to the safety of its staff and clients by adhering to Government and PHE guidelines. Risk assessments have been completed to ensure H.D. Services is doing all it can to help its staff and customers stay safe.

The brand has implemented the following changes to its onsite practices to ensure safety on site:

Only two workers on any site

Observance of the 2m social distancing rule

Facemasks and gloves to be worn at all times

Handwash provided for each worker and access to water to enable regular handwashing.

If you have scheduled work due to be carried out, H.D. Services requests that you inform the team before the date of the visit if you or any member of your family have symptoms or are self-isolating. While it may not prevent the team from undertaking the scheduled work, the company needs to ensure its staff are aware and will have to re-schedule work if it cannot be undertaken without contact.

While the world is coming to terms with the ‘new normal’, H.D. Services has seen the business grow and has been able to invest in some new plant to further future-proof the business and meet the growing demand for its services.

The brand wishes good luck to its customers in the coming months. You can contact the team using the details below.

www.hdservicesltd.co.uk 01494 792000 enquiries@thehdgroup.co.uk

HomeServe trialling smart boiler control technology from Vericon Systems

Smart remote monitoring and control technology from Vericon Systems, a leading provider of innovative building management systems, is helping HomeServe to realise the financial and operational benefits of ‘connected’ boiler control. It is also already delivering 100% accuracy in fault diagnosis leading to a significant improvement in first-time ‘fix’ rates. As part of a new trial agreement, HomeServe has installed 250 of Vericon’s BCM:Connect devices in its customers’ homes to enable the remote monitoring not only of a boiler’s health and condition in real-time, but also predicts when the boiler might fail in the future, potentially leaving their customers without heating or hot water. www.vericonsystems.com 01242 582555 hello@vericonsystems.com

New controls a Quantum leap forward for UFH

Anew range of underfloor heating (UFH) controls has been launched by Continal Underfloor Heating. The Quantum range is the next-generation of UFH controls and is compatible with the Amazon Echo Alexa system straight out of the box. Designed to be easy to set up and intuitive to use, the entire range comes with an industry-leading five-year guarantee. The Quantum family comprises a stylish digital thermostat and simple-to-use rotary dial thermostat, both available in wired and wireless versions, as well as a Quantum hub that allows you to link all your Quantum products to the Smart Home app and the property’s internet connection. www.ufh.co.uk 0333 800 1750 info@ufh.co.uk

GROHE launches new range of shower thermostats

With the new GROHTHERM 1000 Performance and GROHTHERM 800 Cosmopolitan thermostats, GROHE expands its range of modern thermostat solutions for the bathroom. Combining the brand’s renowned high standards of quality and design with a multitude of innovative technologies, the new models offer additional safety features and enhance shower comfort and convenience for the user. Alongside the standard models – which can be purchased individually or as shower sets in combination with the GROHE Tempesta Cosmopolitan shower mixer with two sprays, low-pressure shower sets of both the GROHTHERM 1000 Performance and GROHTHERM 800 – Cosmopolitan will also be available in a convenient one-box solution. www.grohe.co.uk/en_gb info@grohe.co.uk

Jackon brings ICF innovation to the UK market

Jackodur Atlas and Thermomur, two Insulated Concrete Formwork (ICF) systems from Jackon, are set to revolutionise UK house construction in the coming years. Jackon brings over 60 years’ expertise in EPS and XPS manufacturing to this market. The company offers two separate systems – Atlas, which uses an XPS (extruded polystyrene) insulated core, and Thermomur, which uses EPS (moulded expanded polystyrene) formwork. Jackodur Atlas Extruded Polystyrene (XPS) insulation and formwork system is an intelligent and efficient thermal insulation system for floor slabs and is ideal for constructing the foundations of energy-efficient houses. The system comprises an economic interlocking system, which eliminates thermal bridges and has stable compressive strength properties. Supplied cut to size, rapid and problem-free construction is assured. For the most energy-efficient buildings, Jackodur Atlas should be used in conjunction with Jackon’s Thermomur. This is a robust pre-formed block with a hollow core manufactured from expanded polystyrene (EPS). The empty core in the block is filled with a concrete pour during construction. www.jackon-insulation.co.uk 01204 221089

Lafarge Cement packs a punch with trio of packed cement

Lafarge Cement has added three cement product innovations to its impressive portfolio to help make life easier for busy customers and get the job done quicker. With no mixing required and available in 20kg bags, both the ‘High Performance’ and ‘Instant Concrete’ products are quick, easy and ready to use – making the lives of builders and would-be DIYers as hassle-free as possible. The 40N strength High Performance Concrete is suitable for forming the base for domestic garages and driveways. Meanwhile, the 15N strength Instant Concrete is ideal for garden sheds, greenhouses and domestic footpaths and steps that require quick setting. The final product, Premium Cement, is a 42,5N cement made from a higher specification material, specially designed for applications that require extra strength such as steps, paths, concrete bases and repair and maintenance projects. The launch of these products comes as Lafarge Cement responds to rising demand from merchants and their customers alike to offer more specialised packed cement solutions. www.lafargecement.co.uk

DRU launches new Virtuo series of contemporary electric fires

DRU has launched the Virtuo, a revolutionary, realistic electric fire with a unique 3D flame picture and a design and build quality that is the equal of its award-winning gas fires.

The Virtuo series is based on the design of the DRU Maestro range of high-end gas fires. They are glass-fronted with authentic log fire beds, realistic flames and a selection of front-facing, twosided and three-sided models. The fires can be installed into false chimneybreasts or other architectural features around the home to create complete, contemporary fireplaces.

Unique projection system

Unlike ordinary electric fires, the Virtuo 3D flame picture is generated by a unique projection system that replicates the image of a real log fire, from the tall, dancing flames to the glowing LED fire bed and flying embers. The mirrored Ceraglass interior further enhances the depth of image, and there is even the sound of crackling wood.

There are three different flame variations, including special light effects that can be updated. In addition, there is a remote control and an exclusive control app for smartphones and tablets with a timer and thermostat.

Sustainable and efficient

Virtuo delivers a cosy 2KW output or it can be run as a purely decorative fire. There are no ribbons to twist or spindles to squeak, and it is energy-efficient with low running costs.

Commenting on the Virtuo launch, DRU UK General Manager, Niall Deiraniya, said: “Virtuo fulfils a real need in the fireplace market. Many householders are moving away from burning fossil fuels towards more sustainable home heating. Virtuo is also suitable for today’s well-insulated properties that do not require an appliance with a high output, but still want the luxury of a beautiful flame effect.

“For home-builders and self-builders, Virtuo also makes a very attractive option, as it requires no chimneys, flue pipes or complex construction. Simply plug it into the domestic power supply and enjoy the experience of an atmospheric log fire.”

Virtuo is available now from specialist fireplace retailers throughout the UK. For further information, visit the website.

Gazco eReflex 135R Inset Electric Fire

Firing imaginations for over 37 years

WOODBURNING | GAS

MULTI-FUEL | ELECTRIC