i-build August 2018

IN THIS ISSUE:

l SELF-BUILDS l RENOVATIONS l EXTENSIONS l CONVERSIONS August 18 Issue 49

Download the free app to your tablet or mobile. Search 'i-build'

20+

Pale pastel pieces for a colourful and delicate interior scheme

JAPANESE KNOTWEED – CAN YOU IDENTIFY THE INTRUDER?

COVER STORY:

EXPRESS YOURSELF through the creativity and freedom offered by cladding

SAFEGUARD YOUR MATERIAL SPECIFICATION AND SPECIFY FOR LONGEVITY

BEST IN GLASS

GRASS IS GREENER

A GRAND WELCOME

Ensure your glazing and glazier is a perfect match for your selfbuild project

Lawn care survival tips for the UK's unpredictable weather fluctuations

Stuck for patio and driveway ideas?

Check out this month's paving focus

+ SPECIAL FOCUS:

l GLAZING l LAWN CARE l CARPETS & STAIR RUNNERS

Delivering British architecture with German technology Hanse Haus is a premium German supplier of turnkey, pre-manufactured ultra-high efficiency homes.

Founded as a carpentry business in 1929, it now erects some 400 timber frame homes annually Europewide and has been active in the UK since 2006.

To talk to us about your individual requirements, contact us using the details below.

Hanse Haus Email info@hanse-haus.co.uk Telephone 0800 302 9220 www.hanse-haus.co.uk

Welcome to the August issue of i-build

www.i-buildmagazine.com

Editorial:

Paige Smith

paige@mixedmediainfo.com

Rebecca Kemp

rebecca@mixedmediainfo.com Print & Digital Advertising:

Sam Ball

sam@mixedmediainfo.com

Grant Jeffs

grant@mixedmediainfo.com Print Design Manager:

Jack Witcomb

jack@mixedmediainfo.com

Welcome Note

i-build

With London prices continuously on the rise

free-flowing spaces. This is further

and quality homes very much out of most

complemented by a coherent material

people’s grasp, one self-builder decided to

language and a subtle palette of muted

take a risk on a tiny site where a small

colours. An astute interior makes for a

derelict garage stood.

home which feels impressively spacious

The challenge faced by Charles Bettes was

and light-filled despite the small footprint.

how to create a comfortable layout and a

To discover this stunning example of

relaxing home on the minute 6 x 7m site

residential architecture and uncover some

surrounded by Victorian terraces.

of the problems the teeny plot posed,

The finished result is Wittering House,

turn to page 23.

Digital Design Manager:

a stylish home built on a difficult infill site in

Elsewhere in this issue, New YouGov

David Perry

Finsbury Park, north London. Contemporary

research has highlighted a lack of awareness

in design, and providing a discreet

surrounding Japanese knotweed which is

intervention in a street of Victorian houses,

putting UK homeowners at risk, turn to

the 829ft two-bedroom home is a contextual

page 14 to test your Japanese knotweed

and sympathetic response to its location

knowledge. On page 12, uncover what you

and proves that meticulous design and

can do to assist the attempt to secure a 5%

planning goes a long way when self-building

VAT rate for listed property homeowners,

on a tight urban site.

and HM Construction offers advice on

david@mixedmediainfo.com Production Assistant:

Sofia Franchi

sofia@mixedmediainfo.com Accounts:

Jackie Dearman

jackie@mixedmediainfo.com Managing Director:

Sam Ball

sam@mixedmediainfo.com

2

Set over three levels and clad in brick and bronze, the house feels larger due to careful consideration of every inch and clever use of dual aspect rooms with a lightwell and @ibuildmagazine

Pear Platt, Woodfalls Farm, Gravelly Way Laddingford, Kent, ME18 6DA T: 01622 873229 F: 01622 320020

/ibuildmagazine

ibuildmagazine

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

choosing the best cladding for your home on page 34.

Paige paige@mixedmediainfo.com

www.mixedmediainfo.com

Editor’s picks

Terms and Conditions:

Contributions are invited and when not accepted will be returned only if accompanied by a fully stamped and return addressed envelope. No responsibility will be taken for drawings, photographs or literary contributions during transmission or in the editors hands. In the absence of an agreement the copyright of all contributions, literary, photographics or artistic belongs to Mixed Media Information Ltd. The Publisher accepts no responsibility in respect of advertisements appearing in the magazine and the opinions expressed in editorial material or otherwise do not necessarily represent the view of the publisher. The Publisher does not accept any liability of any loss arising from the late appearance or non publication of any advertisement.

Ensure your fenestration is a seamless fit with Illbruck's expert guidance: See page 44 Voice-controlled roof windows are set to provide homeowners with healthier living environments: See page 48 Visit Milbank Concrete Products' website for all your project's concrete-related needs: See page 50

48

Cover story: HM Construction goes through the cladding options available for your new home.

See page 34.

44

50

3

Contents

i-build www.i-buildmagazine.com

August 2018

16

32

23

14

06

38

12

In this issue: 12 14 16 23

28

Desired Designs

ON THE COVER

A look at the latest innovative products and styles for your new home.

Contracts & Legalities

According to the Listed Property Owners’ Club, the UK’s homeowners of historic properties are pressing the chancellor for a 5% VAT rate. Here, i-build explores the news-worthy update.

Viewpoint

ON THE COVER

Are you aware of the consequences of out-ofcontrol Japanese knotweed? Surprisingly, much of the UK cannot correctly identify the intrusive invader; ensure you know what you’re looking for when it comes to this frenzied weed.

30 32 34 36

Impressive Innovation

Discover how one young family modernised a Victorian terrace and radically transformed the way they use their home with the simple addition of a single-storey rear extension.

Urban Sanctuary

Undertaking a self-build project while juggling everyday duties can prove stressful – particularly if you’re planning a wedding and endeavouring to grow your business. For Architect Charles Bettes and his wife Vicki, this is the very challenge they were presented with when they came across an infill site in Finsbury Park.

Foundations

Professor Dr Michael Benfield of Fast Frame Systems brings you back to basics and strips back the dialect behind those all-important foundations.

38 40 42

Driveways & Patios

ON THE COVER

IN THIS ISSUE:

 SELF-BUILDS  RENOVATIONS  EXTENSIONS  CONVERSIONS

The paving options available to create the ideal outdoor environment for your self-build’s driveway or patio.

Bricks & Blocks

Download the free app to your tablet or mobile. Search 'i-build'

August 18 Issue 49

06

30+

Pale pastel pieces for a colourful and delicate interior scheme

ON THE COVER

Guarantee the longevity of your building envelope with H+H’s top tips on specifying high-quality materials for your project.

RCI

ON THE COVER

HM Construction recommends cladding materials for a multitude of styles for your home renovation or self-build project.

Restoration & Refurbishment Whether you’re proficient in renovations or a newcomer to the world of home improvements, Emma Page, Owner at the Victorian Emporium, lists everything you need to be on the look-out for when searching for a home with potential.

i-nterior

JAPANESE KNOTWEED – CAN YOU IDENTIFY THE INTRUDER?

COVER STORY:

EXPRESS YOURSELF through the creativity and freedom offered by cladding

SAFEGUARD YOUR MATERIAL SPECIFICATION AND SPECIFY FOR LONGEVITY

BEST IN GLASS

GRASS IS GREENER

A GRAND WELCOME

Ensure your glazing and glazier is a perfect match for your selfbuild project

Lawn care survival tips for the UK's unpredictable weather fluctuations

Stuck for patio and driveway ideas?

Check out this month's paving focus

+ SPECIAL FOCUS:

 GLAZING  LAWN CARE  CARPETS & STAIR RUNNERS

Subscriptions: You can subscribe to receive i-build each month free of charge at i-buildmagazine.com/subscribe

ON THE COVER

i-build reveals the transformative hallway carpeting trends that are proving popular with homeowners.

i-build

ON THE COVER

i-scape

ON THE COVER

Pick the best glazing for your project with the help of IQ Glass’ list of choices.

It’s not too late to save your freshly-laid turf after the UK’s recent intolerable sunny spells.

Lawnmowers Direct offers its top tips for a luscious, enviable lawn.

5

Desired Designs

1

2

4

3

5 Image ©Woodchip and Magnolia Image ©Oakdene Designs

6

A pretty pastel paradise

Pastel colours can add a pleasing freshness to a space, so it’s time to reconsider your feelings about these ice-cream hues because they’re really big news.

P

astel colours are the new neutral of the interior scheme world. Powder pinks, cool mints, sherbet lemons, luxurious lavenders and delphinium blues are all finding their way back into interiors around the country. The notion of adding pastel hues to your home can be daunting though – there is a fine line between chic and childish – but combining these colours with a mixture of metals like gold and brass, and textures like marble and wood will ensure this trend blends harmoniously into your home. These charming barely-there shades work beautifully together but also look fresh, clean and modern when mixed with white. Perfect for pairing with geometric prints, these muted tones will help add a sense of fun to your home with a gentle splash of colour, whilst still ensuring your self-build space is calm and simplistic.

6

8

7

1. Origami lamp, DaWanda, €59

2. Abstract pastel cushion, DizzyWonders, £30

3. Pastel Lustre occasional table,

9

AUDENZA, £185

4. Pastel Polka champagne flutes, Annabel James, £28.95

5. Felt pastel rainbow, Hurn & Hurn, £49

6. Mynte jumbo mug, NIK Online, €7.50

7. Pastel Lustre occasional table, AUDENZA, £185

8. Moda rocking chair CD4, Cult Furniture, £109

9. Pina Colada lamp, Nedgis, £POA

10. Bunny egg cup, The

Contemporary Home, £6

10

2. Marilyn velvet armchair, £520 3. Toucan money box, £59.95 4. Luxe Drip plant pot, £30.95

Desired Designs

1. Pastel Lustre vases, £39.95

1

4 2 3

Audenza Audenza was founded by three colourful women passionate about empowering others to have the courage to fearlessly embrace their own interior style and to design a truly fabulous home.

i-build loves...

Charming chairs Pastel-coloured chairs are a fun and simple way to add this trend to your self-build.

1

2

1. Remy blue stacking bar stool, BRIDGMAN, £299 2. Love dining chair, Chaplins Furniture, £1339.50 3. Moda office chair CD7, Cult Design, £75 4. Retro Cafe dining chair, the Garden Furniture Centre, £99.99

3

4

7

Desired Designs

Brilliant bookcases

i-build rounds up a selection of cool and quirky ways to store books in your self-build.

1

Image ŠOOSTOR.com

4

Super shelves

A perfect pentagram

These special bookshelves appear to be floating in the air with the superhero character preventing them falling. Made of metal, these fun and functional shelves would look super in a playroom or child’s bedroom.

The Note bookcase takes the pentagram as its shape inspiration with slanted vertical posts crossing horizontal shelves. Offered in several colour combinations, this will look great in any self-build room.

(www.animicausa.com)

(www.gomodern.co.uk)

5

2

3

Multifunctional and eclectic

A contemporary design

Versatile, intelligent and flexible, the Interparete System enters the home and the office to meet the needs of personalities, inclinations and lifestyles of those who live there. Multifunctional and eclectic, this can be used as a bookcase, a module for electronic media, an office area, or even as an element to divide rooms. (www.chaplins.co.uk)

The frame of the Kuba large bookcase is made from acacia wood and the shelves are a striking contrast in studded zinc.

The contemporary design with four fixed shelves will bring the industrial look into your selfbuild living room. (www.wooden-furniturestore.co.uk)

6

Quirky and unique

Wonderfully wooden

A quirky and totally unique design from top Italian brand Lema, based in the heart of the northern Italian furniture making district, the Booken is a bookshelf, side table and shelf all in one.

The beautiful dense grain of the Mayan Walnut low bookcase makes it a real statement piece.

The low bookcase has two fixed shelves and two drawers at the base which are finished with bronze antiqued handles.

(www.gomodern.co.uk)

(www.wooden-furniturestore.co.uk)

8

Always in tune with your style a comprehensive range of rainwater systems to accommodate all types of buildings and budgets

Choose from modern, traditional and heritage rainwater systems, available in Aluminium, GRP, Copper, Zinc and Stainless Steel.

For more information please call 0113 279 5854 or email info@rainguard.co.uk

Aluminium

GRP

Cast Iron

Copper, Zinc & Stainless Steel

w w w. r a i n g u a r d . c o . u k

Desired Designs

An exotic addition With the trend for pineapple pieces showing no sign of slowing down, here’s a selection of tropical treats.

1

Image ŠNedgis

4

An endless pineapple

Perfect for parties This copper cup is the perfect pineapple accompaniment to any Caribbean cocktail. Pop off the top of the pineapple and turn it on its head to create a stand for your cocktail. Ideal for your summer parties.

This endless pineapple design is the exotic addition that your self-build needs. It adds a fresh twist to a fine art print, the epitome of a statement piece. (www.crowdyhouse.com)

(www.einrichten-design.de)

5

2

Ice cool

Funky wallpaper

This retro-style pineapple ice bucket is sure to make a statement in many homes.

Practical and quirky, the ice bucket features a shiny gold double wall and will help you serve your ice in style. (www.hurnandhurn.com)

3

Bring a little tropical sunshine into your self-build all year long with this fun and funky pineapple wallpaper. Great for making a big statement. (www.wallsauce.com)

6

Brilliant bookends

Peekaboo pineapple

The ideal embellishment to your book collection, these wooden pineapple bookends will make a super-stylish statement in your self-build.

This minimal peekaboo-style pineapple is a beautiful, original fine art print that will look perfect in any room in your self-build.

It is handmade in Britain and printed professionally in a London design studio.

(www.frenchbedroom company.co.uk)

(www.abstracthouse.com)

10

Eyebrow Sub-brow

LEVATO MONO

Porcelain paver system and coordinating internal tiling Surface 360, formally The Deck Tile Co, has 150+ colours and finishes in their Levato Mono 20mm porcelain paving tile ranges. Plus create a seamless visual transition between internal and external spaces with coordinating interior 10mm porcelain tiling.

For both residential & commercial use.

Ideal for balconies, roof terraces, garden decking and piazzas.

Various sized 20mm thick porcelain tiles.

An eternal zero maintenance product offering massive over-life savings.

INTRODUCING OUR NEW WEBSITE: WWW.SURFACE360.CO.UK

Timber, stone & cementitious effects.

‘Floating floor’ – installation over single ply membranes.

Height adjustable/slope correcting support system: 9mm - 550mm.

Lightweight – 45kgs per m2.

Highly abrasion and stain resistant.

Highly slip resistant: R11 A,B&C. High load bearing.

Impact resistant.

Completely non porous.

Frost proof.

11

Contracts & Legalities

Owners press chancellor for 5% VAT rate to help maintain their historic homes Hard-pressed listed property owners have launched a national petition calling on the chancellor to reduce VAT on repairs and approved alterations to their homes.

L

ed by the Listed Property Owners’ Club, they are calling for a 5% VAT rate to help them preserve and protect a significant part of Britain’s historic heritage.

The club argues that reducing the rate will remove a destructive disincentive for owners to improve their homes and to apply for listed building consent. This disincentive was introduced when the Government removed the zero rate of VAT for pre-authorised alterations to listed buildings in 2012.

The club is mobilising the UK’s 1.5 million listed property owners to press the case for change.

If the petition achieves 10,000 signatures, the Government will have to respond. If more than 100,000 sign, the issue could be debated in Parliament. The petition has been launched and can be viewed at www.lpoc.co.uk/vatpetition.

12

Martin Anslow of the Listed Property Owners’ Club said: “In 2012 the Government dealt a huge blow to listed property owners – most of whom are very far from being the wealthy homeowners they are perceived to be.

“Removing the zero rate has been a significant double whammy. Since 2012 there has been a noticeable decline in the number of applications for listed building consent.

“Owners either cannot afford to carry out vital repairs leading to more crumbling buildings and greater risks to safety, particularly as owners put off expensive rewiring projects and other renovations, or they are carrying out alterations without consent.

“We speak to many owners each day and it is very clear that they no longer have an incentive to seek formal listed building consent for interior or out-of-sight changes. This not only

poses a risk to our built heritage, it is helping to stagnate the market for listed properties. Many owners tell us they cannot sell their homes because potential buyers are put off by the costs or because previous owners have made alterations without consent.”

The club argues that providing VAT support to listed property owners would be a modest cost to the Treasury but would reap benefits to the economy.

“A report by Experian in 2015 made the case that a reduction in the rate of VAT on housing renovation and repair would have a stimulus effect on the economy of more than £15.1bn between 2015 and 2020, and would create an extra 42,050 construction jobs by the end of 2020,” said Martin.

“The club believes there would be a significant benefit to the economy even if the VAT reduction were limited to listed properties. In our survey, 91% of owners said that if VAT was reduced to 5% for repairs and approved alterations they would be more likely to undertake work, even if it meant formally applying for listed building consent. It seems only fair to reduce the VAT when building new homes is zero rated.

“We know there is pressure for change – just recently Shadow Scottish Minister Paul Sweeney called for the restoration of VAT relief to protect listed properties after two fires in just three months destroyed three listed buildings in Glasgow.

“The club intends to keep up the pressure until the November Budget. This petition is an opportunity to say to ministers that the voices of 1.5 million listed property owners can no longer be ignored. It’s a chance to say to MPs that they should take our views seriously because the votes of listed property owners may make a difference at the next election.”

Craig Mackinlay, Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Listed Properties, said: “Reducing VAT on alterations to listed properties from the standard rate of 20% to 5%, or even zero post-Brexit once the ability to set our own sales tax rules return to our Parliament, would signal a clear indication from the Government that they are listening to those who are at the front line of maintaining our nation’s historical buildings.

“As 98% of listed buildings in the UK are privately owned, I cannot stress enough how much of a positive impact this reduction on VAT would provide to owners who are already struggling with complicated planning guidelines and high costs.”

www.lpoc.co.uk

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Viewpoint

Fewer than one fifth of people in Britain can identify Japanese knotweed New YouGov research has highlighted a lack of awareness surrounding Japanese knotweed which is putting UK homeowners at risk. Can you spot the unruly intruder when plot-searching for your dream site?

N

ew research reveals that fewer than one fifth (19%) of Brits who say they are aware of Japanese knotweed can correctly identify the weed, described by the Environment Agency as “indisputably the UK’s most aggressive, destructive and invasive plant.”

When asked to pick out Japanese knotweed from a selection of five photographs, an overwhelming 81% were unable to correctly identify it, with 14% mistaking it for bindweed, 8% selecting houttuynia, 5% Russian vine and 6% confusing knotweed with common ivy, found in most British gardens.

14

The survey, commissioned by Japanese knotweed removal firm Environet and undertaken

by YouGov, highlights a widespread lack of knowledge about Japanese knotweed which is leaving homeowners at risk. Failure to identify and treat Japanese knotweed as soon as it appears will result in it quickly spreading and becoming established. It can damage buildings and render them unsellable until a treatment plan is implemented, with an insurance-backed guarantee to satisfy mortgage lenders. It could also leave homeowners at risk of litigation from neighbours, if they allow the knotweed to spread.

Viewpoint While DIY attempts at treating Japanese knotweed can hasten its spread and make it more difficult to eradicate in the long-term, at least 37% of respondents would attempt to tackle the knotweed themselves. The most popular method would be attempting to dig the knotweed out of the ground including the roots (27%), although because the plant can regrow from a piece of rhizome as small as a fingernail, this is highly unlikely to be successful. Other methods people would attempt include burning (4%), using household chemicals or diesel (4%) or covering it to deny sunlight (2%).

When it comes to selling a property affected

by Japanese knotweed, three quarters (75%) of respondents would do the right thing and have the knotweed professionally treated prior to the sale. However, worryingly, 4% admit they would attempt to cover it up or otherwise conceal it, hoping it is not discovered by a potential buyer. They would potentially face legal action though, due to the requirement to disclose its presence on the Law Society’s TA6 form. Based on the fact that an estimated 2% of properties in the UK are directly affected by knotweed, this could result in approximately 1000 cases each year of knotweed concealment during property transactions.

Despite the fact that people struggle to recognise the plant by sight, general awareness of knotweed is high, with 76% of Brits having heard of the plant, compared to 75% last year. Awareness is highest amongst the over 55 age group (91%) and, geographically, in areas where the spread of the weed has been most prolific according to Environet’s heat maps, such as Wales (86%) and the South of England (81%), with Londoners the least aware (66%).

Only just over a third of those aware of the weed (36%), however, know that they could be sued if they allow Japanese knotweed to encroach from their property onto a neighbouring property and just 18% know they could face prosecution under ASBO (Anti-Social Behaviour Order) legislation if this happened.

Nic Seal, Founder and MD of Environet, said: “Most people have heard of Japanese knotweed but the fact that only 19% of people in the UK can identify it from other common plants such as bindweed and ivy, is very concerning.

“If left untreated, Japanese knotweed will grow rapidly, by up to 10cm a day during the summer months, pushing up through cracks in concrete, cavity walls and drains and causing damage to property. The longer it is left, the further its underground root system will spread and the more costly it will be to tackle. But it’s not just

about protecting one’s property from damage and decreased value, it is also about protecting oneself from the risk of being sued if the knotweed is allowed to spread.

“The good news is that Japanese knotweed can be treated, either over two to three years using herbicide methods, or immediately by excavating it from the ground. With an insurance-backed guarantee secured for the work, most high-street mortgage lenders will be happy to lend against an affected property, meaning it can still be bought and sold.”

Chartered Surveyor, Philip Santo FRICS Director at Philip Santo & Co., added: “Professional treatment is the most effective way to manage and control Japanese knotweed and the key to selling is an approved Japanese knotweed management plan from a reputable specialist. DIY treatments can make matters worse and the financial consequences of concealing or not declaring the presence of Japanese knotweed during a sale can easily run into tens of thousands of pounds, so it is just not worth taking the risk.”

Environet offers a free Japanese knotweed identification service where homeowners who are worried about a plant can send a photograph for review at expert@environetuk.com.

www.environetuk.com

15

Impressive Innovation

A Victorian terrace transformation

EXISTING REAR ELEVATION

When a young family found themselves left wanting with the original lower ground floor of their home, which suffered from being dark, damp and completely under-utilised, they decided to add a glazed single-storey rear extension onto their Victorian terraced house in Highbury. The new design adds 10m2 of sleek, light-filled space to the home with subtle use of pastel colour and timber.

Existing Section

T

he homeowner explains: “We effectively had a whole floor – lower ground – and garden which we did not use in any meaningful way.

It was all too dark and damp, and not laid out in a way which remotely suited the way we wanted to live. We always knew we would do something with that floor, but it took us six years to start!”.

The north-facing rear garden was only accessible through a small doorway off a utility room, and it became immediately apparent that establishing a better connection between the garden and the house would make a huge difference to the quality of life for

16

the family, as well as giving new life to the basement floor.

The owner continues: “Our vision was very much to have a light family space where we could cook, eat, do homework, relax and enjoy the garden. There was an iterative process through which we realised that to make the most of the space we would need to be more ambitious than at the outset. For example, originally we had no side extension, but realised after a few drafts that to go that extra mile would be more than worth it.”

Existing Rear Elevation

PROPOSED REAR ELEVATION

Proposed Rear Elevation

Impressive Innovation

203102

184010

341410

No 12x50

PROPOSED LOWER GROUND FLOORPLAN

Fr

Extension Area

244667

203102 P

Library

148280

244667

244669

202792

199510

184010

224670

Kitchen

184010

P 203102

199510

Rear Patio J07

Dining Room Area

LG Entrance Hall

Vault

PROPOSEDProposed UPPER GROUND FLOORPLAN Lower Ground Floor Plan

Dining Room Living Room

Bathroom

Hall

No 12x50

No 12x50

PROPOSED SECTION

No 12x50

EXISTING SECTION Proposed Upper Ground Floor Plan

202438

203102

341410

190620

3.9x38

3.9x38

120x30x3 ALI BOX

Existing Section

Proposed Section

Existing Rear Elevation

17

18

Impressive Innovation

Impressive Innovation

With construction lasting just over seven months, IBLA opened up this unloved space by removing the walls of the rear facade, the outrigger, the existing bedrooms and stairs.

It chose to relocate the kitchen from the upper level, and create a glazed infill side extension that provides the family with an elegant open space for cooking, dining and relaxing.

“The fact that we lived in the property whilst the build was ongoing was challenging.

No doubt we were cursed by the building team from time to time, because they had to be fairly imaginative with certain aspects of the process – ensuring we had a kitchen and utilities throughout, for example.

“We worked with IBLA and whilst we knew Kim as a friend, everything was also carried out incredibly professionally in a way that inspired confidence at every stage. Had we not worked with Kim it is inconceivable that we would have ended up with anything approaching the space, design and finish we are so pleased to have ended up with.

“We were very much guided by IBLA, who at each stage always provided several options with a view on each, which helped enormously as we tried to make the myriad decisions throughout the process.”

In an overlooked Victorian backplot, the extension is both filled with light and retains a sense of privacy. This is achieved by a 2.3 x 2.3m sliding glass door and similarly sized window to the rear and innovatively angled skylights pushed up from the ceiling with plywood coffers that capture as much natural light as possible. At night, the space is illuminated by concealed LED lighting.

“We love that we can now all be in the same general space, but doing our own thing – someone reading in the garden, someone cooking lunch, someone doing homework and someone watching TV. It has transformed the way we run our everyday lives at a stroke.

We now have an open lower ground floor containing a TV area, kitchen and dining area, blending through into a redesigned garden.

Upstairs, the old kitchen has become a second family bathroom with a walk-in shower. The downstairs space is incredible, but the new bathroom has made our lives so much easier (and as the children get older, will no doubt become absolutely essential). The birch finish on the wood interiors is incredibly light but textured and offers a consistent theme throughout the space. Equally, the concrete floor throughout the whole floor gives a consistent and surprising warm feel.”

19

Impressive Innovation

The project is a sustainable and moneysaving investment too, with lower ground walls fully insulated internally; the polished concrete flooring also includes underfloor heating and a long-lasting and stylish surface for the extension.

By keeping the interiors minimal and stripped back, the architect’s designs allow for extra space to be used by the family as they please. A plywood kitchen island doubles up as a breakfast bar, and holds storage space for three Magis swivel beech bars tools to be tucked away when not in use. A new stair holds added storage in the form of pull-out larder units, and leads up to a new family bathroom built within the walls of the old kitchen. An ample bookshelf for young and old sits next to a dining table carved into the walls of the extension.

Delicate touches of pastel lend the extension an air of Postmodernism, with a dusty green covering the internal column, Muuto lampshade and trims of the dining area. This use of green continues into the garden with the slatted timber fence bordering the area.

The small garden was completely reimagined as another ‘room’ in the sequence of new spaces. The view out to it was considered as important as the sense of space within it, and landscape design firm Bestique created a circular paved patio area surrounded by textural ferns and predominantly evergreen leafy plants which felt like a continuation of the interior.

Practice Director, Kim Loddo, said of the project: “At IBLA, we design places that people can enjoy; and that provide a robust setting for everyday activities. With this project, we are pleased to have completely transformed the way the clients used their house, and created a series of spaces that put their need for space, storage and light first.”

The homeowner concludes: “If you’re looking to renovate, really set out to your architect exactly what you want from the start, without worrying unduly about budget or space at that point. We were broadly within budget – where we did go over was where we upped the spec.

Equally there were areas which came in under budget, for example, we didn’t need as much waterproofing as originally budgeted. It’s better to have a vision of what can be done and then consciously pare back if needed, rather than selfexiting and never actually seeing what the full potential could be.

“Yes, we would do the whole thing again, although we might think about moving out for some or all of the build. The team made it work, but I have no doubt it would have been easier for them had they not had to look out for us.”

www.ibla.co.uk

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Urban Sanctuary

A little piece of London Wittering House is a stylish home built on a difficult infill site in Finsbury Park, north London. Contemporary in design, and providing a discreet intervention in a street of Victorian houses, the 829ft2 two-bedroom home is a contextual and sympathetic response to its location. †

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Urban Sanctuary

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he modest yet elegant two-bedroom house is on the site of a small derelict garage. Architect Charles Bettes spotted the potential of the small plot, measuring a mere 6 x 7m and set about creating an affordable home for him and his wife Vicki Lim-Bettes.

Charles explains: “This is the only way we could afford our own house in London due to house prices. It was hard to find good quality space to live in the area we’d decided to call home.

“In London, prices keep on rising and quality homes are very much out of most people’s grasp. The flat we lived in before was poor quality both in terms of build and its layout. If this opportunity hadn’t come along we would have spent a lot more time in such places. This project shows there are ways for people to make themselves a home in London that fits them without paying obscene amounts of money.”

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The challenge faced by Charles was how to create a comfortable layout and a relaxing home on the tiny site surrounded

by Victorian terraces. gpad london delivered a contemporary design without being incongruous with the other buildings in its vicinity. Set over three levels and clad in brick and bronze, the house feels larger due to careful consideration of every inch and clever use of dual aspect rooms with a lightwell and free-flowing spaces. This is further complemented by a coherent material language and a subtle palette of muted colours.

He explains: “Living in a space that has wellproportioned rooms and a thoughtful layout has been so much more relaxing than the previous flat. The site was tiny and the house we have ended up with is not large, but the spaces don’t feel small. It highlights that with a thoughtful and well-considered approach to a site, decent spaces to live in can be produced.

“We wanted a ‘modern’ house without it being a cliched white box with huge amounts of glass – this would age badly and isn’t really livable. We needed a stripped-back, homely and clutter-free home, with plenty of storage space. It needed to represent our personalities and be fun, but still relaxing and easy to keep tidy. Our house has a contemporary feel, and it’s warm rather than stark and empty. We had to have plenty of light and an airy feel.”

Charles continues: “There was no set project brief other than to maximise the small site and create a great home for ourselves. Other than that the scope developed as we progressed.

“The site was very small, so this drove a lot of the decisions. We wanted the maximum internal dimensions possible, while allowing enough light and air to enter the house so that it didn’t feel cramped and enclosed. In plan we made sure that the circulation space was minimal so that the rooms could be as big as possible and to eliminate

Urban Sanctuary any wasted space. The entire planning process took nine months and the entire project took just 10 months – we remained within budget.

“Since we only had 10 months for the entire build, timing was challenging. The short timeline meant we made some of the material choices once the builder was already onsite. The plot itself was also a challenge due to its limited size.

The success is, therefore, testament that with an innovative layout and a thoughtful, wellconsidered approach to a site, you can produce quality living spaces, even without a large budget.

“We designed the whole house together and I produced all the drawings and information for the build. Much of this was finished when they started on site, but some was designed and detailed whilst they worked. My role for the first few months was making sure that I stayed ahead of the guys on site and fed them the design information needed. We only visited the site once a month for the first half of the build.

“In the second half of the build, many of the decisions were made on site and were in relation to finishes. We would go on site weekly and meet the sub-contractors, joiners and specialists to discuss what we wanted and make decisions.

Some things were not completely detailed so this was stressful, as the contractor sometimes needed immediate responses.”

Since Wittering House is located in Finsbury Park, north London and surrounded mainly by Victorian terraces, the homeowners wanted the property to be a sympathetic response to its environment as well as being a contemporary addition to the street.

Charles explains: “The materials were selected to respond to the scale of the materials and buildings around the site, but to mark the house as its own building – one that is contemporary in design, without being loud.

“We wanted finishes that were subtle, with depth, texture and colour to them. We also

wanted the materials and spaces to have weight, quality and substance. They also need to age well and have little or no maintenance requirements.

The site is very small, as is the house. The materials needed to reflect this scale as well as those of the buildings around. In this way, all of them have a very human scale that is easily understandable and is in no way overpowering.

“The brick and brass on the outside of the building will weather well and will require little maintenance. Depth to all the materials is key, so the glass positioning in relation to the cladding and the way the windows move in and out was key.

“The interior is on three floors; with the first floor containing the master bedroom, a dressing room and en-suite bathroom, the ground floor an open-plan space with the kitchen, dining and living areas as well as a small courtyard and the basement which consists of a guest bedroom, study, storage room, bath and a lightwell.

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Urban Sanctuary

Urban Sanctuary

“The inside materials are chosen to complement those used on the outside and were selected with similar drivers in mind. The whitewashed oak, grey brick and light resin floor of the living spaces reflect the natural light well and provide a space that is subtle and not overpowering, but which also contains a lot of textures and warmth so there is variety without being overpowering.”

The sleek, warm and subtle interior is relaxed and calming, with whitewashed oak panelling and resin floors.

“The final property is better than we hoped.

Our day-to-day life is far more relaxed and comfortable and this is down to the house. We have a home that is definitely influenced by us and how we want to live.

“The living room has great light and is a nice volume, with plenty of changes in the space throughout the day. Opening the doors onto the courtyard and relaxing on the sofa is very enjoyable.

“The only exterior space available on the plot was the patio. For simplicity this is paved. It’s designed to be an extension to the living and dining spaces, so the brick forming the courtyard wall flows into the internal space further merging the two.

“In hindsight, we would not approach the project whilst trying to balance a wedding, growing a business and being involved with an office move so we could be on site to enjoy it more.

“Trying to be involved and make decisions on the project was very stressful with a particularly busy and stressful timetable of work, family problems and wedding planning. In the early stages this was easier as much of the work was designed and a lot of it was work in the ground and with the structure so we weren’t on site or called upon too much. Over the last few months, however, there were lots of decisions to be made and sometimes it all felt like it was getting out of control. The builders were great and we are really grateful for the care they have put in. That said, if we had the time to be there every day or the time to really think through decisions, we would definitely have done a few things differently.”

When asked what advice Charles would offer to anyone considering starting their own selfbuild journey, he said: “Do it. It’s a really interesting process and allows you to really think about how you want to live and what kind of places you like. Sometimes you take for granted the quality of accommodation you have. When you build yourself you really think about what you do and don’t like. It is very satisfying to sit in a house you have been involved with from scratch.”

www.gpadlondonltd.com

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Foundations

A guide on foundations Today the foundations of a building are required to provide the basis for constructing a ground floor that is, or can be, both well insulated and free of thermal bridging. The basic element for this is the means of connecting the floor and the rest of the superstructure with the ground. In many cases the ground floor platform is built as an integral part of this, although it need not be.

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ince the initial decision on how and what to build depends on site-specific ground conditions, there are a range of different intermixable foundation elements. Here, Professor Dr. Michael Benfield of Fast Frame Systems, a Benfield ATT Group company, discusses the different options.

Strip foundations Although the days of strip foundations for everything are now long gone, this is especially true when developers have the opportunity to use (relatively) lightweight superstructures, like timber frame. In themselves, these offer the opportunity to revisit the design and engineering of foundations, potentially resulting in a variety of time and cost savings.

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However, strip foundations remain relevant because they are still a basic means of creating the substructure required for highly insulated over-site slabs, beam and block, and suspended timber ground floor structures.

This applies to all sizes and types of building, from small extensions through to domestic and low-rise residential development, to sizable multi-storey, commercial and industrial buildings.

Piled foundations With a large body of technical knowledge behind them, the choice of piled foundations for any project is complex to say the least.

As well as sheet steel, tubular and concrete piles, timber is an often overlooked alternative, even though it has perhaps one of the longest histories

in providing foundation support for everything from harbours and bridges to commercial, industrial and residential buildings.

In recent years, short bored piling, requiring a concrete or similar ring beam on top to carry the building load, and mini piling has come to the fore both for new buildings and retrofit underpinning requirements.

Helical or screw piling and ground anchors have a robust history having been developed and used for lighthouse foundations.

However, in all cases, the question of insulation has to be addressed in the design and construction of the ground floor elements.

Augured foundations and Walter Segal These are a simple alternative to piled foundations.

A ground auger – usually about 600mm in diameter – is used to create a hole down to a solid ground base. This will itself probably be excavated and extracted by up to 300mm to ensure that this is the true solid base. Being particularly suitable for short or shallow depths, and ideal for lowrise structures, this is the system developed by Architect Walter Segal in the early 1970s.

Foundations

“Strip foundations remain relevant because they are still a basic means of creating the substructure required for highly insulated oversite slabs, beam and block, and suspended timber ground floor structures”

- Professor Dr. Michael Benfield and block or raft methods, tests have shown this to be over £1000 per plot more cost-effective for a typical 50m2 house footprint.

Technopor foundations Using recycled, ground glass to provide a highly insulated base for the concrete slab/raft, developed and used extensively in Germany for Autobahn construction, this is a low-cost, rapid alternative form of foundation.

The glass foam granulate is equally suited to other forms of structure requiring highly load transference such as multi-storey residential buildings, industrial construction and biogas plants.

Suspended floors Timber ground floors Avoiding ‘wet’ trades, after the structural design has been engineered and point loads determined, holes are augured out as described previously in positions to receive posts. The holes are then filled up to ground level with non-compressible materials such as lean mix concrete or even crushed rock. These bases are then capped off with pads of concrete or possibly a reinforced concrete paving slab to serve as a base for the above-ground parts of the foundation. Structural posts are then set on top of these. Full details can be obtained from the Walter Segal Self Build Trust (WSSBT).

Simple pad foundations Where ground conditions are solid and stable, it may be possible to simply remove topsoil and construct a series of simple pads to carry a lightweight structure, such as a single-storey timber frame building, above these.

If it is intended that the building remain in place for a long time or be permanent, then a base below the frost layer is advisable, as is avoidance of high water tables.

In the case of suspended and other floors, the floor is most likely to be a suspended, insulated

timber ground floor, but consideration can be given to other forms.

There are other advantages of such a system, like the avoidance of tree roots and the ability to build quite substantial structures very close to trees.

But providing the pad base is sufficiently strong and able to spread the load over a firm ground base, then consideration for such an alternative could lead to considerable savings in time and cost.

Raft and slab foundations Requiring minimal excavation (and resultant soil away) this highly insulated reinforced concrete raft is proofed against rising damp. With very low U-values in the order of 0.15, and the option of incorporating underfloor heating as part of the construction, this unique foundation and ground floor slab provides a base for the timber frame structure.

Insulslab foundations These are based on a hybrid-style steel fibrereinforced concrete (SFRC) raft set on expanded polystyrene blocks interlocked together to give detached house ground floor U-values down to 0.11 W/m2K. Compared with conventional beam

Suspended timber floor ground floors provide a good alternative to concrete slab and raft foundations and can be very economical.

Although this used to be the usual way to build ground floors until the 1970s, they are still widely used in Scotland.

Insulation is fixed either between joist or over floor deck in the conventional way and can deliver equal or better U-values than concrete or beam and block at much lower costs.

Care needs to be taken to provide good ventilation beneath the floor, but this may be well worth doing.

Beam and block ground floors While this form of ground floor construction has become fairly commonplace across the UK, to meet the latest Building Regulations, it must incorporate some form of insulation.

There are various ways of doing this, either under or over the beam and block construction, but Cellecta’s patented system provides a quick and useful way to grasp the fundementals of this.

www.fastframesystems.co.uk

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Driveways & Patios

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ere Malcolm Gough, Group Sales and Marketing Director of Talasey Group, looks at the on-trend materials, colours and effects that can be used to bring your outdoor living space to life.

Shades of grey

The right materials should balance form and function when planning your new driveway or patio With the British summer this year proving to be more glorious than we could have ever hoped for, many people are now turning attentions to their gardens and outdoor living spaces. Our homes are a place we invite our family and friends to share and so it is important to update and take care of it, including your patio and driveway.

We have found that patios are now moving away from natural, warm tones in favour of a monotone look and feel. Natural greys are still extremely popular, with tones varying from light to dark, but this year has also seen a real increase in customers requesting shades from pearlescent white, silver, deep classic blue and blacks. These colours help to create a modern and contemporary outdoor living space. If you’re looking for that natural ‘wow factor’ then opt for a flagstone that is available in a linear format, designed to create sleek, clean lines and a feeling of length. It is also a great idea to mix different products together in order to reflect the variety of textures and colour within your garden for a seamless, natural finish, adding harmony between the foliage and your patio area.

Wooden-effect paving

While showcasing our products at multiple RHS Flower Shows this year, we recognised a real increase in wood-effect porcelain paving.

Most people love the cosy and natural feel of wood but in reality, having wooden floors, especially outdoors, is not practical. Wood can become easily damaged and is not durable enough to withstand a long-term life outdoors. This is why wooden-effect porcelain is soaring in popularity, allowing homeowners to create a sophisticated wood-like design by using a resilient, hard-wearing material, which is suitable for outdoor living.

Decorative textures

In the past, homeowners have opted for smooth driveways made out of concrete or tarmac.

However, this year will see texture coming to the forefront of driveway design, with the likes of clay pavers. Cobblestones, natural pavers, interlocking stone and customised bricks help to create edges and channels to add a natural textural element to your driveway or patio. We find that embracing creative products such as textured clay paving helps to create a rustic and authentic flair to your outdoor living space. Choose rectangular formats to create a brick effect or herringbone style.

Alternatively, choose a square shape ideal for creating edgings and channels within paved areas.

Asymmetrical design and mixing rounded shapes with linear lines can transform your driveway or patio into a real statement design piece.

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Driveways & Patios Durable, weatherresistant material

As well as thinking about the aesthetics of creating a beautiful and visually appealing outdoor living space, it is also important to consider the practicalities of the materials. During my time as a landscaping expert on the BMBI Panel, we have found that the newest growing landscaping market is resin-bound aggregates used specifically for driveway construction. Resin-bound aggregates provide a low-maintenance surface that is hard-wearing whilst also being flexible and resistant to cracking. When planning your new driveway, it is essential to consider materials that will withstand heavy vehicular traffic.

Good design combines form and function so always opt for a durable, weather-resistant material such as a low-maintenance porcelain paving when thinking about outdoor products to ensure your patio is beautiful and practical.

Maintenance can also be greatly reduced if you use the right sealant to protect your product from future staining and invest in a specialist cleaner to tackle different types of stains.

Not all these trends may suit your patio or driveway, but hopefully Talasey Group have given you some great inspiration and ideas for transforming your outdoor space.

www.talasey.co.uk

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Bricks & Blocks

Navigating the maze of material specification in self-builds Cliff Fudge, Technical Director at H+H – one of the UK’s largest manufacturers of aircrete – explains what factors self-builders need to consider when it comes to deciding which materials to specify for their project.

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o, you’ve decided to embark on your first self-build project and are probably feeling a little daunted about where to start. With so many materials to choose from, how can you possibly select which one is most suitable for your project?

If you are completely new to construction, it may be wise to enlist the help of a small builder – a popular option for those who would like to be involved with the construction of the property but are feeling a little worried they lack the technical skills and expertise to complete the build on their own. It is worth speaking to a number of local firms to find out what they use; bearing in mind the material you use should be one both parties are happy with.

For many self-builders, ease of use is the main characteristic to look for. This makes masonry – one of the oldest and most enduring methods of construction – an easy choice. There are

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many different types of blocks available and the choice can sometimes feel overwhelming. We recommend looking for a block that is lightweight and easy to lay and manipulate on site. Blocks which can be cut to size on site without the need to purchase any additional (and often expensive) equipment are ideal for self-build jobs.

The thermal performance of building materials is important to consider – not just to save money on fuel bills once the build is complete, but in order to ensure your project is fully compliant with the latest Building Regulations. It is important to check the maximum permitted U-values and ensure the materials you are planning on using will meet these requirements. Using a recognised modern method of construction (MMC) is an easy way to fulfil these criteria and there are many masonry options available which offer both exceptional thermal performance and ease of use.

Most heat is lost through the home at junctions between walls or where walls meet other elements such as windows, doors, ceilings and even floors.

This process is known as thermal bridging and due to increasingly strict legislation, areas of a property which might have previously been considered insignificant (such as internally part walls) can now be a major cause of thermal inefficiency.

Part L of the latest Building Regulations (Conservation of Fuel and Power) state: "The building fabric should be constructed so that there are no reasonably avoidable thermal bridges in the insulation layers caused by gaps within the various elements, at the joints between elements and at the edges of elements such as those around window and door openings". This means that preventing thermal bridging must be one of your top priorities when choosing which materials to specify in your next self-build project.

Bricks & Blocks

Although thermal bridging can be identified in completed buildings with the use of thermal image cameras, it is often very difficult to rectify – especially if the issue is a recurring one. Therefore, it is of vital importance to eliminate these issues right from the outset to prevent any costly remedial works later down the line.

Sound insulation is another factor to consider, especially if you don’t have the luxury of acres of fields for neighbours.

When it comes to sound, choosing the right material at the outset can make all the difference. There can be huge variations in the resistance to the passage of sound and changing the specification of just one material can have a significant impact in the overall building performance.

Due to the number and complexity of potential design solutions, getting sound insulation right can be one of the most difficult parts of any self-build project. That is why we would recommend making use of the Robust Details scheme – launched in 2004 in response to the house-building industry’s call for an alternative to pre-completion sound testing in order to meet Part E of the Building Regulations.

For a small fee (£33 + VAT per dwelling), any new development can be registered with the Robust Details scheme. Users can then compare the sound insulation properties of a range of solutions and select the most appropriate for their project, thus taking the hassle and worry out of pre-completion sound testing (an approach which can quickly mean unexpected costs should any part of the design solution fail). Choosing Robust Details means you can be confident the materials you have chosen to specify will be fully compliant with Building Regulations – since the scheme was launched, over 98% of properties tested met or exceeded the legal sound performance requirements.

Finally, the performance of building materials under different weather conditions should be a key consideration when starting a self-build project. The UK’s damp climate can create numerous challenges for materials – especially during the cold winter months when freeze-thaw cycles can lead to water entering brick, concrete or natural stone in a process known as spalling. Spalling causes the surface material to peel, pop out or flake off; however, in more serious cases, can lead to crumbling of a structure.

Sulphate attack is also something to be aware of and occurs in much the same way as spalling. Sulphates can be present in the soil surrounding a building or in seawater so it is worth assessing the existing environment of your plot before commencing construction.

Having this information to hand will help you make a more informed choice when assessing the suitability of materials for your self-build project. Checking both the freeze-thaw durability and sulphate resistance of any material you are considering using by looking at both manufacturer guarantees and independent testing to verify the material’s performance will really pay off – after all, the goal of many self-builders is to construct a property that will last for not just one generation but several.

www.hhcelcon.co.uk

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RCI

Choosing the best cladding for your home It isn’t exactly something that many of us pay attention to or think about that often, but the idea of putting cladding on your home should be a rather big consideration when designing your home or redeveloping. The versatile nature of cladding means that the number of materials that can be used is very extensive. This allows for the more creative of us to have that little bit more freedom and not have to worry about cost too much.

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hether you are thinking of having new cladding put on your roof or walls, or already have existing cladding, you really should read through HM Construction’s advice to make sure you know exactly the best type for your home.

Showcasing your new timber-frame home with a stylish surface finish will add to the wow factor of the building due to the huge range of materials. Whether you want a shiny, metallic look, or a classic wood finish, there is something that will suit all needs. However, checking whether your local planning department has restrictions on the type of material you end up using is recommended.

Cladding isn’t just a pretty face. All types will protect your home from the outdoors, but some have better properties than others. It is always advisable to get advice on what will suit your home best, along with what material would suit your needs.

On a practical note, cladding can be fitted as part of the first fix, as plumbing, electrics and plasterboarding

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can be done while the external cladding is being installed, so speeding up the build by a few weeks and saving on costs.

Ask the manufacturer about warranties for the cladding, and check that the material is acceptable for your structural insurance provider, to ensure that you’re covered. In essence, cladding can become a cheaper way to add value to your property and an amazing outward appearance to your self-build.

When it comes to materials and cladding, people have used a host of different materials in the past, however, there are three main types that are most common throughout the UK. People may wonder, why is it important to choose the correct material? Well, dependent on the results you want, choosing the right material is a crucial step. Coupled with the fact that the outward appearance will set the standard for your home, this is a huge choice.

RCI Brick

For the look of solid brick without the hassle, consider brick slips – thin slices of brick used as a lightweight alternative to regular bricks.

This classic approach is tried and tested in many homes and is sure to always stand up against the elements.

Wood

The classic choice, timber weatherboarding can give your home a fashionable New England effect, though other patterns, including herringbone, are available too.

The wood can be chemically preserved to maintain the colour, but bear in mind that timber will react to the weather. It can be treated before or after cladding. Hardwoods from Europe or the tropics, are more durable but more costly than European softwoods, which tend to be more eco-friendly.

Render

If you’re after a smooth finish then render is best for you, however, you’ll need to call in the professionals, as it’s hard to get right.

Since the pigment goes right through all the layers, it won’t lose its colour. External wall insulation covered by a render of your choice can be applied to new or existing homes to improve warmth and comfort levels, or choose a thermal render. Application takes around three days.

When undertaking your self-buid project, the key is to always make sure you contact a professional with any ideas or questions, as cladding is best left to a team of trained contractors who have years of experience. Have fun with your home though and see it as an amazing way to add value and substance to your house!

www.hmconstructionuk.co.uk

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Restoration & Refurbishment

Restoring and refurbishing a home Finding and purchasing a renovation project fills many people with excitement and often this excitement can help to bag amazing opportunities, it can also lead to hasty decisions without proper thought. Emma Page, Owner of the Victorian Emporium, hopes her short guide will help ensure your project runs smoothly.

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irstly, you should define your goals – decide why you want to restore a period house. This will help prioritise the most important renovation jobs and ensure that your budget is realistic.

Your goals could be any of the following or something else: We don’t like the finish or decor of any of the houses we’ve viewed and want to create our own vision.

We can’t afford what we want so we could buy a wreck and create it ourselves.

We’ve got time and money on our hands and doing a renovation sounds like fun.

We’ve inherited a period house and want to do it up and sell it.

We view this as a business so we want to maximise the value of the property and then sell it for the best profit.

You also need to be realistic about your timescale in terms of turning the project around and how long you will keep the property, whether you will live in it, rent it out or sell it when it’s finished.

If your goals and timescales are really clear it will make decision-making easier. For example, if you are simply doing it up to sell it again, you’ll not want to spend a lot of money on things that don’t add to the resale value such as addressing any non-critical structural issues. If you are creating your forever home, you may want to splurge

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on luxuries such as kitchen ranges, underfloor heating, triple glazing, landscaping and planting that won’t necessarily add to the resale value but that you’ll appreciate over a number of years.

Choose your renovation project carefully – once you’ve defined your goals you’ll then need to keep them in mind when attending house viewings. This is essential if you want to avoid an expensive mistake. Keep your estate agents briefed on your criteria and check these are all met before you arrange any viewings. Question a number of other estate agents about the resale value of a property after renovation and check this by looking at sold figures of similar properties in the area.

If you’re simply looking for something to turn around quickly for a profit, avoid listed buildings, conservation areas and houses with structural issues. Be suspicious of scruffy buildings that are freshly decorated as this could well be the sign of somebody trying to mask a problem. If a house looks derelict, run-down, scruffy and uncared for, chances are that any issues will be easy to spot. Many issues are simpler than you think to remedy and may be as straightforward as slipped tiles that need replacing. Conversely, things that look small can often be minefields. Make sure you get a full home survey before putting an offer in.

Find out whether the property has previously been extended as this may affect how much you will be able to extend under certain circumstances.

Budget is key to make any project a success.

You need to work out the total you can afford to spend. If you don’t have the knowledge to do this, take a builder around the house with you. Bear in mind that a builder may give you figures based on the easiest way to resolve an issue but you may find later down the line another solution is chosen and prices may change. So, discuss your plans and preferences in detail with the builder as this is the only way to obtain realistic figures.

If you purchase all materials yourself you could save up to 40% on your material costs. Set up trade accounts with all of your local builders' merchants by telling them the size of your project and get them to quote competitively on any large orders you may be placing and negotiate on all prices quoted.

If the house is uninhabitable or unsellable unless all work is fully completed, we strongly advise that the money you need for the work is put in a savings account and earmarked for this work once the house becomes yours. Money rarely, if ever, appears out of nowhere and thinking “we’ll come up with the extra money later” is often the road to disaster involving whopping credit card charges or unpaid debts.

Once the house is yours, thoroughly clean it and make it habitable for the least money possible and then live in it. Until you live in a period house and truly know it, it’s difficult to make decisions about how it needs to be changed.

www.thevictorianemporium.com

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Restoration & Refurbishment

i-nterior

Taking the first step Adding carpet, a stair runner or just a fresh lick of paint to your staircase can transform an old, worn and dulllooking walkway into the bright focal point of your hallway that your home deserves. But what’s best – a fullycarpeted staircase, one that showcases a stylish stair runner or one that is bare with a few brushstrokes of paint?

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ur stairs see a lot of traffic – after all; they are the only way to get from one floor to another – so it’s important to take care when deciding how to embellish them.

First things first, what is the difference between a stair runner, a carpeted staircase and a painted one? A stair runner is a strip of carpet that covers

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only a portion of your staircase – the middle – leaving the edges bare and exposed. Fully carpeted stairs cover the entire staircase and painted stairs often start life as bare and wooden steps that are then painted in a fresh, clean colour.

Painted stairs offer a modern and fresh aesthetic, are easy to clean and often help to make a hallway look brighter and bigger.

Carpeted stairs and stair runners, on the other hand, are softer underfoot, can help with noise control and add warmth and texture to the home.

If you’re struggling to make a decision, why not have the best of both worlds? Use a runner to add pattern and comfort underfoot and paint the exposed part of the steps to help add an easy-toclean and fresh-looking aesthetic to your staircase.

THERE CAN ONLY BE ONE! Easy and quick to apply by trowel or spray Extremely fast drying time Universal use: internal or external and new & old buildings Unbeatable flexibility Excellent crack-bridging capability >2mm Strong resistance to hydrostatic pressure Highly adhesive to most common building substrates Overcoat in just over 4 hours UV-resistant Can be over-coated with Remmers coatings Extreme resistance to frost and salts Solvent & bitumen free – low odour

01293 594 010 www.remmers.co.uk

1968-2018 Celebrating 50 Years Traditional Joiners using modern machinery & techniques.

Makers of Hardwood and Accoya™ Windows, Doors and Staircases Established in 1968, Croxford’s remain a family owned business committed to the finest quality craftsmanship which includes hand made hardwood doors, timber windows, staircases and bi-fold/patio doors.

You will find our work all over the UK. We supply for both commercial and private projects from the most modest new build/renovations to the most elegant of stately homes. Our timber doors and

windows not only look good and wear well, but with the option of traditional or modern hardware and highly efficient double glazed units they also help you save energy. Please call or visit our website for more information.

CROXFORD’S Joinery Manufacturers & Woodturners Est. 1968

Tel: 01484 850892 Web: www.croxfords.co.uk

39

i-build

Choosing the right glazing for your project Everyone knows that when building or renovating a house you want to make sure you choose the right products. There are so many options available that it can become quite hard to decide which system is most suitable for your requirements and the ways in which you navigate your home on a day-to-day basis. Selecting your glazing conscientiously should be at the forefront of your mind when choosing glazing, as this can really help to ensure the smooth running of your project.

Here, IQ Glass runs through your glazing options.

Sliding or bi-fold doors?

One of the most desired features in a modern home is a contemporary glazed door to create an ingress of natural light into the internal living spaces as well as providing a seamless connection with the inside and outside of a home. Choosing the right glazed door is very important for both style and practicality.

Bi-fold doors comprise multiple glass units that are concertinaed to provide a large open

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aperture. When considering this type of system, it is paramount to compare the varied flexibilities in configuration, size and profile capabilities between systems. For example, some have the ability to open in the centre and concertina to either side – this is an excellent way to open up a very wide aperture as this allows for more panes than a configuration that only slides to the left or right.

Sliding doors are a fantastic option when looking to exploit panoramic views of the outdoor scenery, whether it’s your garden or the rolling hills in the landscape. The frames

of sliding doors can be manufactured to incredibly slim vertical profiles that create a frameless-style aesthetic. Sliding glass doors are very versatile due to the many configurations and adaptations available – an open corner sliding door, for instance, or a pocket door feature whereby you can achieve a full opening in the same way achievable with a bi-folding system. A pocket door is a system where builders allow a space in the wall cavity for the sliding doors to hide within when the doors are open – therefore, a completely frameless opening is achieved.

i-build Whether you opt for a sliding or bi-fold door is a matter of personal preference.

Bi-fold doors universally allow for the whole length of the aperture to be open due to the concertina feature which neatly folds the panes of glass away to one side.

A traffic door can also be integrated within the configuration to provide quick and easy access through the door without having to open the whole bi-fold door each time.

Whereas sliding doors can offer incredibly slim vertical sightlines to provide an impressive and seemingly uninterrupted glass elevation. They are opened linearly with one pane behind another which means that the panes have to be stored to one side of the aperture which removes the ‘open aperture’ aesthetic – unless a pocket door can be installed.

Glass box extensions Extensions are a popular home renovation project to add additional living space but also enhance the existing property. Have you ever thought about using glass as your main building material? Glass box extensions are a fantastic new concept to flood the internal living space

with light as well as create an indoor-outdoor living environment. Glass extensions can utilise a large variety of architectural glazing including structurally glazed roofs and walls of an entirely frameless appearance.

The striking aesthetic of a highly glazed facade can create a frameless feel to the architectural glazing, removing the division of inside and out. Did you know that sliding glass doors can be incorporated within glass facades to create a luxurious opening? Due to the slim frames of some sliding door systems, they can blend in with minimalistic silicone joins to create a cohesive design.

Glass balustrades Frameless glass balustrades are also a popular feature of architectural glazing which creates a stunning addition to modern homes whether they are installed externally or internally. Utilising frameless glass not only provides the required elements of safety, but additionally avoids the need for solid handrails which often obstruct your outlook at eye-level. Glass balustrades can be used internally for level changes, stairwells and internal balconies with various fixing techniques depending on the surrounding elements.

IQ would always recommend low-iron glass for frameless glass balustrades as this avoids the green tint naturally inherent to any glazed unit, accentuating its invisibility and allowing for the surrounding landscape or building aesthetic to make a statement. Alternatively, if you would like the balustrade itself to feature as a design statement, curved glass is another exciting avenue to pursue.

Rebecca Clayton from IQ Glass advises: “When appointing a glazier for your project, attending a showroom is imperative to help you understand all the options available.

This experience will provide an opportunity to gain valuable advice from the showroom technicians that can assist you in choosing the perfect glazing system for your project.

“Always make sure you ask about thermal performance; the basic rule is that the lower the U-value, the higher performance you can achieve – and make sure the unit you are given refers to the whole unit.”

For more information and expert advice on glazing systems for your self-build project, visit IQ Glass' website.

www.iqglassuk.com

41

i-scape

How to rescue your lawn from dry weather conditions Mark Bartram is the Managing Director of Lawnmowers Direct, a leading UK supplier of lawnmowers, and believes that everyone can achieve a stunning lawn all year round, given the right equipment and expertise.

T

he UK summer always brings uncertainty. Needless to say, however, most of us are enjoying the hot and dry spell we’ve had recently – and arriving just in time for the start of the summer holidays.

However, if you’re a homeowner whose lawn is as much a feature of your property as the living room or windows, too much heat can be a reason to worry.

Areas that are particularly susceptible to the harmful effects of hot weather include freshly-laid turf, poorly shaded areas, grass growing on hills or slopes as well as closemown lawns.

Unfortunately, there’s no SPF 50 sun protection for your lawn, but there are adjustments that you can make to your existing lawn care regimen that will help defend it against sun damage.

Watering Your instinct to keep your lawn looking tip-top over summer may be to step up the hydration with daily watering.

However, overwatering is something that many don’t consider when their grass is looking dry. Watering your lawn too regularly starves the roots of oxygen and encourages your grass to develop shallow roots that won’t feed it properly as the soil gets dryer.

Believe it or not, watering your lawn once or twice a week in the summer heat will almost definitely be enough to keep it looking and feeling healthy. Doing this in the early mornings or evenings will allow sufficient time for the grass to absorb all the hydration it needs before the water eventually evaporates.

Again, it’s important to encourage deep root growth, so you want to let the water soak at least 6" deep, which you can check by digging a screwdriver into the ground.

Mowing Mowing too frequently in any weather can cause physical and environmental stress to your grass. If you’ve overdone it on the lawnmower in the spring, your grass will be poorly equipped to handle higher temperatures in the summer.

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i-scape Thankfully, all is not lost, as skipping the odd trim during the hotter months, when combined with proper application of fertilisers and well-planned watering, should help encourage the strength of your grass’ roots.

When you do venture out with the mower, it’s important to not remove more than a third of the length and to appropriately adjust the cutting height to suit the speed of your lawn’s growth. Do this infrequently and sparingly for a lawn that has the best chance of remaining luscious, even when it gets unseasonably hot.

Fertiliser Being careful with fertiliser products when it’s hot outside is very important to the health of your lawn. If you’re not generous enough with fertilisers, your lawn will be lacking in essential nutrients and will start to turn yellow. Using too much of these products can burn the roots, leaving the grass scorched and potentially causing even more damage than underfertilising. It’s a tricky balance to strike.

Always follow the instructions that come with your fertiliser very closely, and use as little as you can when the sun is at its hottest. The objective here is survival, not additional growth. As well as hydrating the grass, the deep watering we

recommended earlier will help soak the fertiliser products into the soil for maximum effect.

There are some less risky alternatives to using fertilisers and weed killers if your grass is really struggling. Adding a pound of sugar per 300ft2 to your lawn, for example, will feed the microbes that your grass needs to restore its much-desired green colour. If you’ve gone overboard on the fertiliser, applying activated charcoal to the affected areas can help reverse the harmful effects before your lawn is ruined.

Last-ditch efforts Despite your best efforts, you may find that some areas of your lawn are beyond repair. In this case, your only option may be to resow all or parts of your lawn. Starting afresh can seem both daunting and frustrating, but could be the best choice for achieving the look you want.

If heat damage has created bare spots in your grass, you may be able to plug these areas with sod or seed. However, getting this right is tricky and could cause your lawn to look patchy if done incorrectly.

Your last resort is to reseed your entire lawn. It’s best to wait until the heatwave subsides, usually nearer the autumn months, before reseeding your lawn, so that your soil is less dry and you can truly start anew. When your grass regrows, make sure you heed our advice for preventing sun damage in the future to avoid being trapped in a vicious cycle.

Ultimately, preventing and curing a heat damaged lawn isn’t as difficult as most people might think. All it takes to protect your grass and care for it in the summer months is some basic TLC and appropriate adaptations to your lawn care regimen.

www.lawnmowersdirect.co.uk

43

Product Guide

Left: It’s a little-appreciated fact, but from a performance perspective, how you install your windows is arguably even more important than the products themselves Below: Of all the installation products on the market, the one that offers the best, most reliable performance is impregnated tape

It’s not just the windows – it’s how you fit them that matters Fitting the windows is a momentous step on any new-build. It means you’re half-way there. The plot of land you’ve spent so long labouring over finally starts to look like it could one day be a home – which is a huge morale boost, and a serious cause for celebration.

B

ut it’s a major milestone from a more practical standpoint, too. It means your build is finally watertight. The interior can start to dry out, and, when it has, the process of fitting the plumbing, the electrics and other essentials can begin. So, it goes without saying – the installation process is something you have to get right.

You’ll have agonised over what windows to use. Aluminium, timber, uPVC? Double- or triple-glazed? Which combination will give you the best U-value? What style and colour will best realise the vision you have in your head?

But here’s something you’ve probably not spent anywhere near as much time thinking about – how you fit them.

It’s a little-appreciated fact, but from a performance perspective, how you install your windows is arguably even more important than the products themselves.

You can spend thousands of pounds on the most stylish, weather-resistant, energy-efficient windows on the market, but fit them poorly, and they’re not going to perform much better than a cheap and cheerful uPVC casement.

For decades, most of the UK’s windows have been fitted with silicone. Its two biggest selling points are that it’s inexpensive, and it’s easy to use – you point the gun and pull the trigger.

But it also comes with a whole host of drawbacks. It’s a poor insulator, for one thing – typically offering U-values of 2.6 or worse (Passivhaus is 0.7). And over time, silicone goes hard. Any movement between the window and the frame can cause tiny micro-cracks in the silicone, resulting in the sort of air and water leakage which seriously compromises the unit’s thermal efficiency, and, eventually, leads to more serious complications.

So what’s the alternative? Of all the installation products on the market, the one that offers the best, most reliable performance is impregnated tape.

In essence, it’s a compressed foam insulating seal. Once you remove the backing paper, the tape steadily expands to effectively seal all gaps and spaces between the frame and wall.

Impregnated with a flame-retardant resin, it’s extremely safe and offers outstanding thermal efficiency, outstanding airtightness and driving rain resistance up to 600 Pa. It seals and protects corner joints from mould and fungi. It significantly improves acoustic insulation. And, most importantly of all, it’s a breeze to fit. A lot of other non-silicone sealant solutions on the market are flawed. They’re incredibly difficult to align, or they crease around corners. Tape has none of these problems – and can be measured and applied in a matter of minutes.

It’s the intelligent choice for the savvy selfbuilder – and if you’d like to learn more, watch this how-to installation video: https://www. youtube.com/watch?v=W9hgyi9lba8.

www.illbruck.com benjamin.alcock@tremco-illbruck.com 02476 855000

44

Product Guide

VASCO introduces the Niva Bath, a radiator designed to solve storage issues

VASCO’s Niva Bath presents the ideal solution by standing back from the wall at a distance of 325mm thus creating a practical storage solution.

Inspired by VASCO’s successful Niva radiator, the new designer Niva Bath is positioned further away from the wall, allowing more space behind the radiator for additional functionality such as shelves and a hanging rail, perfect for towels and robes. The Niva Bath also has excellent energy-saving credentials; using only four litres of water to provide a rapid and powerful heating source; it can also blend into the decor or stand out and be bold as the radiator is available in 55 colours. However, the shelves come as standard in black (RAL 9005), or white (S600).

VASCO has developed an extensive range of steel designer radiators and accessories providing the perfect ambient temperature for all rooms. VASCO radiators will exhibiting at 100% Design, stand no: K620.

Whether you are a home-builder or developer, when it comes to creating a new bathroom, lack of storage can be an issue, especially in conversions and refurbishments where space is often at a premium.

www.vasco.eu info.uk@vasco.eu 0333 772 7718

WoodLiving – kitchens crafted with care For over 15 years, WoodLiving has been designing, manufacturing and installing bespoke wooden kitchens. Every kitchen it produces is made in the UK, it is individually crafted and manufactured using ethicallysourced, sustainable, high-quality solid wood.

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The highly skilled WoodLiving team understand the importance of quality; each kitchen is crafted with care, precision and maximum attention to detail.

WoodLiving creates the finest wooden kitchens for rooms of any size and style preference; country, traditional or contemporary. Its modular range allows clients to personally design their kitchen, offering a wide spectrum of colours, work surfaces, handles, hinges and lighting options.

WoodLiving also offers a bespoke service, providing expert advice and step-by-step guidance enabling clients to create the perfect kitchen design whatever the space and budget.

Whether you’re after a bespoke, modular kitchen or looking to refurbish an existing space, WoodLiving can help turn your vision into reality. With its eye for detail and drive for perfection, the company can craft and create a kitchen no matter how unusual the request. If you require more information on a WoodLiving kitchen, please visit the company’s website.

www.woodliving.co.uk mike@woodliving.co.uk 01227 286535

FEIN started innovating in the late 19th century combining the power of an electric motor with a manual drill to develop the world’s very first power tool. Last September that innovation led to the launch of 10 new cordless drill/drivers.

The ASCM 12 and 18 represent the hero machines of the 10. Offering four-speed capabilities, ‘Power Drive’ settings, quicker changes of accessories for application work and supported by a new battery range.

FEIN is also proud to launch its new rotary hammer drill – the ABH 18. The new drill enables the end-user to drill up to 20mm in concrete, combines drilling, chiselling and hammer drilling in one tool, and weighs just 3kg, with low vibration settings, similar to the technology in FEIN’s renowned multitools. What’s more, both the battery and tool have electronic SafetyCell Technology, which protects the hammer drill from overload, overheating and total discharge, and shuts down the tool in a fraction of a second.

fein.com/en_uk 01327 308730

sales@fein-uk.co.uk

Sto provides perfect finish for striking dwelling A project to create a striking new domestic dwelling in London has highlighted the creative possibilities offered by the Sto range of external wall insulation systems.

Product Guide

Cordless FEIN drilling takes another leap forward for UK users

Located in Plaistow, Salmen House has been designed to add a fresh new dimension to the existing backdrop of traditional properties. Sto supplied an integrated package of products for the project, including StoTherm Classic K external wall insulation, including Sto Armat Classic reinforcing mortar and StoSilco facade render. The StoTherm Classic K system features Sto-EPS board which was used to create a 200mm-thick layer of insulation around the property. “This was a vital consideration, and it has allowed us to produce a property which has an estimated heating bill of just £300 per year,” adds Hugh McEwen of project architect firm, Office S&M. The EPS boards were installed using Sto-Turbofix, a single-component adhesive foam which allows for a rapid and accurate application.

www.sto.co.uk 0141 892 8000 info.uk@sto.com

OAK FRAMED GARAGE KITS 47 Standard Designs

CH1G £2,395

CH2G £3,295

CH4HA £8,190 CH3B £5,375

www.roundwood.com Tel: 0800 328 3847

Nationwide Sub-Contractors Required (Groundworks, Assembly & Roofing) In the first instance please e-mail jason@roundwood.com

Round Wood | Newick Lane | Mayfield | East Sussex | TN20 6RG

OAK FRAMED BUILDINGS | BEAMS & SLEEPERS | JOINERY | CEDAR SHINGLES | STADDLE STONES QUALITY DECKING & CLADDING |OAK & WALNUT FLOORING | HOME & GARDEN FEATURES

47

Product Guide

Control your roof windows with your voice Homeowners can for the first time tell their roof windows to open or close for a better and healthier living environment.

VELUX and smart home company Netatmo launch VELUX ACTIVE with NETATMO, the first plug-and-play smart home solution for remote sensor-based operation of roof windows, blinds and shutters. VELUX ACTIVE with NETATMO is the first smart roof window system that connects with Apple HomeKit, allowing homeowners to manage indoor climate control at home or remotely across all Apple devices, including iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, Apple TV and HomePod. The system can be controlled using Siri, Apple’s voice-controlled intelligent assistant, or with the touch of a button on the Apple Home app.

www.velux.co.uk 01592 778225 sales@velux.co.uk

Regal rainwater systems for Queen Anne-style refurbishment Yeoman Rainguard rainwater systems have played a part in the refurbishment of one of Potton’s show homes. The Milchester, a Queen Anne-style, 3000ft2 home, was one of the original show homes to be sited at the Potton Self Build Show Centre, based in St Neots, back in 1992. After many years of service, it was time for the Milchester to undergo a refurbishment, both inside and out to modernise facilities whilst retaining the much-loved traditional feel throughout the property. With this in mind when it came to replacing the rainwater system, Potton chose gutters and downpipes from the Yeoman Rainguard XL Aluminium range.

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Marble decor a backdrop for iconic British fashion label When design firm Beyond Communications was tasked with developing the Fiorelli shop in Luton Airport, it approached the design with an understanding of the practical demands the surfacing materials would be under and recognition of the importance of aesthetics. To showcase Fiorelli’s hero products to their full potential, the Calacatta Marble decor from the TrueScale range by Formica Group was selected. TrueScale’s Calacatta Marble look is based on a genuine Italian calacatta marble slab, discovered by the Formica Group design team. With real marble’s high cost to source, its propensity to stain and a density that makes it difficult to work with, TrueScale offers an authentic visual solution in a laminate.

www.formica.com 0191 259 3512 samples.uk@formica.com

Remmers repairs Bawdsey Radar Station Built in 1938 and protected by concrete blast walls, Bawdsey Radar Station was the world’s first operational radar station. The walls had decayed steadily since the building was vacated in 1991, leaving the top layer of reinforcement exposed to the elements. Being a heritage site, traditional concrete repair techniques were not allowed. Working in partnership, Remmers and Concrete Renovations Ltd devised a way to repair the walls by using Remmers’ restoration materials. Remmers’ coloured mortars were used to repair and simulate the colour of the original concrete alongside Remmers’ migrating corrosion inhibitor and impregnation cream as part of the 25-year maintenance plan.

www.rainguard.co.uk 0113 279 5854 sally@rainguard.co.uk

www.remmers.co.uk 01293 594010 sales@remmers.co.uk

Timber windows and doors chosen for London restoration project

Osmo revives aged wood with highly effective power gel

The Sash Window Workshop recently manufactured, installed and repaired multiple timber windows and doors in a property in West London as part of a large renovation project.

The renovation of the whole property was carried out simultaneously, meaning the company was required to work alongside a variety of other trades when completing the work, while ensuring that the windows and doors were completed in a timely manner to meet the required deadlines.

All the Sash Window Workshop’s windows and doors are bespoke and made to order from its workshops in Berkshire. The company also provides repair services for double-glazing and draught-proofing timber windows.

Osmo Wood Reviver Power Gel has been especially developed to restore exterior wood, including wooden decking, timber cladding and garden furniture, back to its original colour and character. Available in 0.5 and 2.5l, Osmo Wood Reviver Power Gel is a jelly-like cleaner that effectively cleans and refreshes greyed and weathered exterior wood. Made from environmentally-friendly and biodegradable ingredients, the product is free from harmful solvents, chlorine compounds, amines and harmful odours. One coat of Osmo Wood Reviver Power Gel is sufficient to revive external wood back to its natural colour and appearance. This product is most effective on untreated wood that has been left to age.

www.sashwindow.com 01344 868668 info@sashwindow.com

www.osmouk.com 01296 481220 sales@osmo.com

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LEADERFLOORS L E A D I N G F LO O R I N G S U P E R S T O R E

Product Guide

Left: From design and manufacture to delivery and installation, Milbank offers the most comprehensive service, providing a range of precast concrete products to a wide range of industries in the UK Below: Milbank Concrete Products prides itself on delivering exceptional service to its customers at every stage of their journey, whether that be at initial enquiry or delivery and final installation

The most comprehensive service from Milbank Concrete Products Milbank Concrete Products, part of the Milbank Group, is one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of precast concrete products with a focus on exceptional customer service. For more than 70 years, Milbank has dedicated itself to helping its customers achieve success.

F

rom design and manufacture to delivery and installation, Milbank offers the most comprehensive service, providing a range of precast concrete products to a wide range of industries in the UK including: beam and block flooring, hollowcore flooring, an innovative insulated flooring system, bespoke concrete products,

curved and helical stairs, custom stairs and landings, stadia products, retaining walls, balconies, silage clamps, ground beams and sea defence solutions.

Its manufacturing facilities, offices and transport hub are located near Colchester on the border between Essex and Suffolk. With the A12, M11 and M25 all nearby, the company

is well positioned to offer a competitive precast concrete products service to London & the Home Counties, East Anglia and the South East. Having been established for over 70 years, Milbank is a well-known and respected organisation within the precast concrete industry and its dedication to providing an exceptional level of service to new and repeat customers alike is what positions the company at the forefront of the industry.

Working with architects and engineers on a daily basis, its ability to assist on a variety of different projects has allowed the company to work on some of the UK’s most exciting developments, including traditional flint embossed precast concrete retaining walls at the St. James retail leisure park in Dover, a collection of bespoke precast concrete fire station drill towers on behalf of Kier Construction around the UK and precast concrete stadia structures at the 2012 London Olympic Games, the Kia Oval county cricket stadium and at a selection of top UK football clubs.

Most recently, Milbank Concrete Products has been working on a unique £1.4m project alongside Sui Generis International (a GRP specialist also part of the Milbank Group) on behalf of Marlborough Surfacing, providing 86 individual precast concrete stair flights with cast upstands for handrails, anti-slip GRP stair nosings and an innovative cast channel for bicycle access. Working closely with Southend Airport due to the project’s proximity within their flight path, the new stairs are replacing the existing steps at Belton Hill in Leigh-onSea and will create additional access to the Belton Hill Gardens and Nature Reserve.

Milbank Concrete Products prides itself on delivering exceptional service to its customers at every stage of their journey, whether that be at initial enquiry or delivery and final installation. It’s this level of service that has given Milbank an unbeatable reputation and loyal base of returning customers.

www.milbank.co.uk info@milbank.co.uk 01787 223931

50

Timber Frame is

Quicker & Cheaper than Masonry

Benfield ATT Group advert 2006,7,8 & 9

We told you this ten years ago. Now it’s Official.

(OFFSITE HUB, May 2018 – ask us for more details)

It’s also more aesthetically pleasing, sustainable, environmentally friendly, needs less energy to make & run, is flexible & better future proofed than most other ‘Off-Site’ systems As the UK’s leading ‘Full Service’ timber engineers we design, manufacture and build frames and components in solid timber, SIPs, XLAM, Glulam, Green Oak & other timbers. In short we know a thing or two about wood.

Call 01291 437 050 or visit our factory to discuss your project, or simply send us your plans for comment and pricing.

Benfield ATT Group, 5-6 Castle Way, Caldciot, Gwent NP26 5PR 01291 437 050 info@BenfieldATT.uk www.BenfieldATT.uk

ULTRA SLIM SLIDING PATIO DOORS, BIFOLDING DOORS AND CONTEMPORARY ROOF LANTERNS Allow natural light to flood into your home with our range of slim-line contemporary roof lanterns, aluminium sliding patio doors and bifold doors complete with solar control double glazing.

High specification products designed to add the WOW factor to any home at affordable prices.

sales@foldingdoors2u.co.uk

01621 834123

www.foldingdoors2u.co.uk