Professional Builder March 2023

MANAGING EDITOR

TERRY SMITH

EMAIL: tsmith@hamerville.co.uk

DEPUTY EDITOR

LEE JONES

EMAIL: ljones@hamerville.co.uk

GROUP ADVERTISEMENT MANAGER

CRAIG JOWSEY

TEL: 07900 248102

EMAIL: craig@hamerville.co.uk

NORTHERN ADVERTISEMENT MANAGER

IAN DUFF

MOBILE: 07810 353525

EMAIL: probuilder@sky.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

DONNA BOOTH

GROUP PRODUCTION MANAGER

CAROL PADGETT

DIGITAL MANAGER

JASMINE SMITH

EMAIL: jsmith@hamerville.co.uk

DIGITAL ASSISTANT

LYDIA MCFARLANE

EMAIL: lmcfarlane@hamerville.co.uk

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER

KARL CLARK

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PUBLISHED BY

HAMERVILLE MEDIA GROUP Regal House, Regal Way, Watford, Herts WD24 4YF

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Fax: (01923) 246901

Email: pb@hamerville.co.uk

7Editor’s Viewpoint

9News

27Free-for-All

81Trade Media

81Wise Howell

83The Doctor’s Advice Sponsored by ToughBuilt

Professional Builder is a business magazine for firms and individuals involved in all aspects of the building industry. It is available nationally –free to the trade through leading builders’ merchant outlets. © 2023

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17 VEHICLES & PLANT

SPECIAL REPORTS

12Band of Builders

18Peter Atkins is an FMB Member

21Carhartt – Workwear 24Development Finance

WIN 10K WORTH OF EQUIPMENT COURTESY OF FESTOOL 28

57Honest John –Small Vans

58Peugeot – e-Partner

60Toyota – Proace

62Webfleet Management Platform

64Bobeka – Van Conversion

66Takeuchi – TB325R

68Van Ninja – Vehicle Security

69NEW PRODUCTS

28Setcrete – LVT Subfloors

31BMI Redland – Rosemary Clay Classic

34Onduline – Sub Roof System

37Russell Roof Tiles – Concrete Roof Tiles

40SSQ – 25 Years of Riverstone

42Metrotile –Lightwieght Roofing

43Marley – SolarTile

45TuffX – Part O Explained

46Rockwool – Loft Insulation

48A. Proctor Group – Radon Protection

50Freefoam Building Products –Digital Tool

53Dakea – Sustainability

54Actis – Boost R Hybrid Roof

55NEW PRODUCTS

70V12 – Footwear Selection

72ToughBuilt – Spirit Levels

73NEW PRODUCTS

Professional Builder, Regal House, Regal Way, Watford, Herts, WD24 4YF.

Quality STREET

There are, of course, a great many conundrums and unprecedented influences to this current global economic crisis but surely one of the most intriguing is that those businesses you would expect to be suffering from a profound shortage of customer cash – ie those at the so-called top end of the market – are actually performing rather well. A perfect case in point is that great British institution, Rolls Royce, which has just turned in its best-ever results, selling more than 6,000 cars for the first time ever.

Admittedly, the majority of its increased sales have occurred abroad – mostly notably in the Middle East – and to the burgeoning number of entrepreneurial billionaires being created in China and India but, even so, with cars costing well in excess of a quarter of million pounds each, it is a pretty remarkable achievement. Luxury rival, Bentley also announced record sales. A hundred plus years of trading has clearly not diminished the prestige of owning an RR but it’s also testament to the absolute rule that quality must not be compromised, however fraught the market conditions may appear.

This total commitment to employing only the best materials and skills is something we believe can provide important lessons within our own hard-pressed sector. For instance, talking to some contractors, we are aware that there are still some out there who are convinced that, in the present climate, the only way to be sure of winning a contract is to bang in the lowest price. Yet increasingly there is contrary evidence to suggest that, while money is extremely tight right now, customers are prepared to pay extra for top class products backed up by a professional and reliable service.

Those manufacturers who have a proven track record of built to last products are ideally placed to reap the rewards associated with a long well-established big brand name. For tradespeople, it’s becoming increasingly obvious that it is no longer a good strategy to just specify the cheapest product. The end result could well be an inferior extension or refurbishment project with a reduced life span, costly call backs or even a visit from Building Control, demanding that unsuitable materials are removed.

The key to all this is, of course, good marketing and your skill as a communicator. You must be able to explain to the customer exactly what they are getting for their money. It used to be the case that a client, often through ignorance would happily have settled for whatever was put in front of them, unaware of the myriad of alternatives. Today, through the wonders of modern technology, customers are much more well informed and clued up, will have done their own homework and have a much greater awareness of being sold a potential pup.

The alternative’s may well be significantly more expensive but if the benefits are backed up and fully explained – such as longer life or something that simply looks visually more appealing – then the chances are the customer will believe they are getting better value in both the short and long term. And

that, from what we are seeing in the wider business market right now, is what you should be selling on your forthcoming projects.

So, how can the average builder know that the products he specifies are actually top quality? The old adage of you get what you pay for is always a useful rule of thumb but clearly your experience as a tradesperson will go a long way to determining which products you feel most comfortable with and have stood the test of time. Almost certainly they will be the ones backed up by various British Standards and Agrement Certificates. Beware the unrelenting tide of cheap foreign imports and counterfeit products.

To sum up then, if you haven’t done it before, make a concerted effort this year to really sell quality. It’s easier than you may actually think and will produce more satisfied customers who feel you have given them real value for money.

And talking of job satisfaction……after 38 years, and more than 400 issues, once you have sat in the Professional Builder hot seat you simply don’t ever want to give it up! Unfortunately, time and increasingly the rapidly evolving world of publishing wait for no man and so the moment has finally arrived to let someone else “make the readers smell the sand and cement” And let’s face it after his own timed served apprenticeship extending over more than twenty years there is no one better equipped to continue the formidable PB legacy than Deputy Editor, Lee Jones.

I can only hope that he goes on to enjoy just a fraction of the once in a lifetime experiences, fun filled adventures, unforgettable characters and immense job satisfaction that being Editor of Britain’s favourite building magazine has given me for almost four decades.

It’s not quite the end of the story as I intend to keep my hand in with some regular contributions to the magazine’s growing portfolio of communication platforms such as the new Smith & Jones Podcast but, for now, I will be swapping damp old builders’ sand for some a little closer to a sun-drenched shoreline. Goodbye and good luck!

Terry Smith, Editor, Professional Builder.

A recent visit to the iconic Dragon’s Den –just one of the many highly memorable experiences afforded to the Editor of Porfessional Builder magazine!

TOUGH GOING

Swarfega is on the hunt for the UK’s Toughest Trade

Rated People launches 2023 edition of its Annual Home Improvement Trends Report

From

the ways

tradespeople are going greener to how the costof-living crisis is impacting the industry –the 2023 edition of Rated People’s Trends Report reveals this year’s biggest opportunities for tradespeople. Rated People analysed more than 1 million home improvement jobs posted through its platform and interviewed thousands of UK tradespeople and homeowners to create the report. Amongst the key trends is an increase in eco improvements, and renewed demand for renovations as a result of the property market. To see the full

TREND SETTERS BREATHe EASY

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE HELP AND SUPPORT AVAILABLE VISIT:

Whitehall takes action on silicosis

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has referred to silica as “the biggest risk to construction workers after asbestos”, while an estimated 600,000 workers are exposed to silica in the UK each year. The All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Respiratory Health has published its latest report with recommendations including reconfirming silicosis as a notifiable disease and the introduction of real time silica dust monitoring.

FOR MORE DETAILS VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ002

HOME RUN

The nation needs new homes, urges Cornerstone Tax

Figures from the National Housing Federation show that 340,000 new homes need to be built annually to meet the current demand as the past pledges of 300,000 new homes being built each year by the mid-2020s have yet to come to fruition. A further indication of the unlikelihood of supply keeping up with demand in 2023, is the Prime Minister’s softening of this commitment – introduced in 2017 by then-chancellor Phillip Hammond – from ‘mandatory’ to ‘advisory’ to build this level of new housing. According to Group Chairman of Cornerstone Tax, David Hannah, the lack of housing supply is the result of two decades of failed pledges from previous governments.

FOR MORE DETAILS VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ003

Swarfega has begun its annual hunt for the UK’s toughest trade. The skin care expert will be challenging tradespeople to post a picture of themselves or a colleague battling their toughest task on the Swarfega

Facebook or Twitter page, along with the hashtag #ToughestTrade and a short reason why they think their trade should top the competition in 2023. The winner will receive £200 in Amazon vouchers and the trade that the winner represents will be crowned Swarfega’s New Toughest Trade for 2023. The runners-up in places 2-4 will also receive a £50 Amazon voucher.

THINK YOU’VE GOT WHAT IT TAKES?

Post your images on the social media channels below:

SWARFEGA’S FACEBOOK PAGE: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ004

SWARFEGA’S TWITTER PAGE: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ005

SEE THE FULL TERMS AND CONDITIONS HERE: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ006

A GRAND IDEA!

JG Speedfit’s T20 Grand in your Hand

In conjunction with its best-selling product, the 15mm Equal Elbow, JG Speedfit is launching a new promotional campaign. The elbows will be offered in promotional packs of ten from participating stockists. For a chance to win, installers can enter the competition by using the unique code inside each pack through to the end of July 2023. Not only will one lucky winner receive £20,000 in cash but installers will also be entered into a monthly prize draw for some incredible technology bundles. There are six bundles in total, each worth up to £1,000, including an Apple MacBook Air, a LG 50” TV, and an Xbox Series X, and lots more.

DOWN THE DRAIN

Housebuilders face a costly hurdle over sustainable drainage

Housebuilders have described new rules forcing developers in England to adopt sustainable drainage systems to prevent flooding as ‘ill thought out’. The government has announced it will amend the flood and management act to make sustainable systems, referred to as SuDs, mandatory on all new housing developments by 2024. “It will have a real impact on the industry, particularly for the smaller developer,” argues National Federation of Builders, NFB, housing and policy head Rico Wojtulewicz.

ADVICE FROM HANK ZARIHS ASSOCIATES ON HOW TO GET INTO PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT CAN BE FOUND AT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ008

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE GOVENMENT REVIEW INTO SURFACE WATER MANAGEMENT VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ009

WEAR WITH PRIDE

Band of Builders unveils extended Regatta Professional clothing range Tradespeople can now wear their charity support on their sleeve with the Band of Builders’ collection of branded workwear and fashion clothing from Regatta Professional. The clothing manufacturer will be making a donation based on all items sold and products will include tshirts, polo shirts, hoodies, shorts, builders’ trousers, holster trousers, body warmers, softshell jackets, waterproof jackets and insulated jackets.

TO VIEW THE REGATTA PROFESSIONAL RANGE VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ010

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON BAND OF BUILDERS : WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ011

SITUATIONS VACANT

New research highlights potential demand for installers

The widely promoted 50,000 installers required to meet the Government’s ambitious annual heat pump installation target of 600,000 may be three times lower than the number required, research has revealed. The Heating and Hotwater Industry Council (HHIC) has calculated that a figure of circa 150,000 workers is required to meet the Government’s target. It also uncovers the need for 100,000 new entrants to the industry – a figure almost equivalent to the entire current Gas Safe Register.

TO DOWNLOAD THE REPORT AND FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE RESEARCH, VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ012

TAKE COVER

Broker urges construction businesses to shout ‘I’m a liability’

Commercial insurance broker, McCarron Coates, is warning businesses about the risk management jungle and says many business owners should be shouting, “I’m a liability; help me out of here.” Liability insurance covers a business against compensation for injury or property damage and claims brought against them because of their negligence or failure to perform a legal duty. A claim can be brought by an employee, customer, a member of the public or even a shareholder or investor. Public liability insurance, whilst not a legal requirement, is essential protection within sectors such as construction.

FOR MORE DETAILS VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ013

OUT OF THE WOODS

Building with sustainable timber should become the new normal, declares Kebony

The industry must address the global challenge of deforestation through giving people a sustainable alternative. Five more common hardwoods, including Ipe and Cumaru, were formally listed in CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) Appendix II – meaning they will now be better protected. Kebony utilises a patented wood modification technology that produces an environmentally friendly, cost-effective and superior wood.

FOR MORE DETAILS VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ014

NICE WORK!

Demand for construction workers high

New figures from the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) reveal that almost 225,000 extra workers will be required to meet UK construction demand by 2027. The Construction Skills Network (CSN) report has also found that construction output is set to grow for all nations and regions, with private housing a major area of demand. If projected growth is met, by 2027 the number of people working in construction will be 2.67m.

FOR MORE DETAILS VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ015

© Friends Stock/Adobe Stock

RETRO STYLE

TV architect teams up with Grimshaw and Mace to fire the imaginations of young people

Architect and TV presenter George Clarke and his education charity MOBIE (Ministry of Building Innovation and Education), international architecture practice Grimshaw and global construction and consultancy business Mace are inviting young people from across the UK to imagine ingenious ways to upgrade our existing homes, or to re-use old or vacant buildings. Students will select a building or buildings they know that are energy inefficient and achieve a significant reduction in energy use and carbon emissions.

FOR MORE DETAILS VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ016

BUILDING ON SUCCESS

UK site managers win top award for house building quality

Organised by NHBC, the UK’s leading new homes warranty and insurance provider, Pride in the Job celebrates site managers who have achieved the very highest standards in house building. It is the most highly regarded competition in the house-building industry and a prestigious benchmark for exceptional site managers. The winner in the Small Builder Category was Sam Sayers from S & DS Construction for Mount Bernard Rise, Dungannon in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland.

FOR FULL LIST OF PRIDE IN THE JOB WINNERS AND RUNNERS UP VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ017

PAYING THE PRICE

The CLC has issued its latest construction product availability statement

The Construction Leadership Council has found that price inflation is stabilising, with timber continuing to fall, but the price of some energy intensive products, such as bricks, cement and PIR insulation, increased by around 10% in January, due to energy and distribution costs. There remains an ongoing problem in relation to gas boilers as a result of global semi-conductor supply chain issues.

FOR MORE DETAILS VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ018

© juniart/Adobe Stock

JOIN THE BAND!

Band of Builders (BoB) finished the first phase of the project in October 2022 to level the flooring on the ground floor of the Almeley home of Martin Wilks. Volunteers also widened doorways to make it easier for him to move around in his wheelchair.

Recently, up to a dozen volunteers from the national construction charity –which completes practical projects to help members of the UK construction industry who are battling illness or injury – returned to install new flooring and tiling, carry out electrical work and decorate over the course of two weekends in January.

This has been the third time that BoB volunteers have answered the call to help Martin – who was left paralysed from the chest down after falling off a stepladder in June 2018 and hitting his head on a concrete planter, causing a severe traumatic brain injury.

He was initially put in an induced coma and also suffered strokes, seizures, infections, pneumonia and a lung abscess while in hospital. The 68-year-old finally returned to his home in Almeley, Herefordshire, in February 2019 after regaining some of his independence following a long period of rehabilitation. In the same year, a team of BoB volunteers travelled to the general builder’s home to install a new wood-burning stove to replace an unsafe and impractical open fire.

After the initial project, Martin’s family and friends crowdfunded to build an extension and specialist wet room to help him regain his independence and live comfortably at home with his wife.

Speaking about the project to BBC Midlands Today, Martin said: “I would like to thank the wonderful team of people at Band of Builders for the changes they have made to this house – and to our lives. It is amazing, and I’m overwhelmed by the team, who have come from as far afield as Newport, Somerset, Norfolk and Devon, as well as local people from Hereford.”

Martin’s daughter Hannah said: “We can’t thank BoB enough for its lifechanging help for my dad – as he can finally regain some independence and relieve mum of her wheelchair-pushing

duties. Both their day-to-day lives will be vastly improved.”

This was the 29th project that the charity has completed since it was founded in 2016, and is sponsored by Tarmac, the sustainable construction materials and building products business. Garry Gregory, Packed Products Director at Tarmac, said: “We are always proud to get involved with and support the important work of Band of Builders. The life-enhancing projects they are delivering on behalf of those who work in the industry and their families are making a real impact!”

Jake Anderson, a longstanding BoB volunteer and the project lead, said: “It’s a real privilege to be going back to do more for Martin. His family and friends have made an amazing effort to ensure he’s got the space and facilities to allow him some independence, and we’re hoping some of the changes we’re making will add to that and make him even more comfortable. We can’t wait to get cracking.”

ANYONE WHO IS INTERESTED IS ENCOURAGED TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE CHARITY ON ITS FACEBOOK PAGE WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ021

A group of volunteer tradespeople have completed a project at the home of a Herefordshire builder – who was left paralysed after a fall – in a bid to help him gain greater independence.

WIN 10K WORTH OF EQUIPMENT!

The Festool With

You

Everyday

Giveaway

is giving one lucky person the chance to win £10,000 worth of kit including £8,000 of the manufacturer’s products of their choice. The prize will include accessories and batteries as well as a bott Smartvan racking system to the value of £2,000.

AND THE WINNER IS...

Last year’s winner was Dan Giles of Lancashire-based Dan Giles Carpentry and Joinery. Professional Builder caught up with Dan to find out more

I’ve been in the trade for 16 years now. I’m 34 years old but I started in the construction industry helping my dad tiling at 16 years old before starting my apprenticeship in 2007.

I used to live in Kent up until 2015 when I moved up north to Lytham St Annes in Lancashire which is where most of my work is now based. I do everything to do with residential and domestic carpentry and joinery from cut roofs, timber framing to kitchens, wardrobes, alcove units and second fix.

I’m ecstatic and very grateful for the win from Festool. I bought the new cordless KAPEX KSC 60 and saw the link to enter the competition when I registered it for warranty, I didn’t expect to actually win, so I was a bit shocked when I got the call!

Festool tools I’ve already got and make use of are the TSC 55 track saw, CTL mini extractor, 1010 and 1400 routers, CXS drill, BHC 18 SDS, the smaller domino machine DF500 and now the KSC 60 mitre saw.

Hard to choose which tool I’m looking forward to using most out of the ones I’ve picked, as they’ve all been on my wish list for a while. Probably a tie between the big Domino XL machine DF700 and the ROTEX sander.

Probably my most favourite and invaluable Festool machine that I’m currently using is my cordless track saw, the TSC 55. Had it 7 years now and it hasn’t missed a beat. I’ve cut everything from fibre cement cladding to composite worktops with it. It’s earned its keep over the years.

Festool will also support the winning professional tradesperson’s career by helping them with social media, creating useful content and case studies for them to use for their business, as well as any technical advice for the new tools.

YOUR CHANCE TO WIN!

The process: To enter the Festool With You Everyday Giveaway you need to purchase a 18V battery power tool from one of the company’s certified dealers. Sign up and register this tool via MyFestool to receive a threeyear free warranty all-inclusive and fill out the online application form.

Purchase period ends on the 31st of March.

Entries close at 23:59 on Friday 28th of April 2023

TO ENTER SIMPLY USE THE RDR.LINK BELOW TO GO STRAIGHT TO THE MICROSITE WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ022

I’ve been a fan of Festool for many years, I bought my first tools of theirs in 2014 which was a 110V track saw and my CTL Mini Extractor (which I still own and use). The quality, aftercare, service and warranty is brilliant, especially considering they will replace your tool if it gets stolen for a small excess fee.

Also, I’ve not seen other tool manufacturers that run promotional competitions on this scale especially none that are ran in conjunction with other companies like Festool has with bottsmartvan.

FOR YOUR CHANCE TO FOLLOW IN DAN’S FOOTSTEPS AND WIN 10K WORTH OF KIT VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ023

COMPANY IN GOOD

Remarkably, it was during some of the darkest days of the Second World War that the Federation of Master Builders came into being. Set up more than 80 years ago by 15 builders with a determination to rebuild following the ravages of the Blitz the organisation has since attracted generations of tradespeople to its cause – and become the voice for small builders in the process. Today’s members have been more recently tasked with building back better post-pandemic, but just what are the advantages of being a member of the trade association? Peter Atkins is an enthusiastic advocate of the FMB and would thoroughly recommend the trade body to his fellow builders.

We caught up with Peter at a major St Albans project, where an existing detached property is benefitting from an extension to the sides and the rear of the first floor, a loft conversion, and complete remodel of the interior. “I’ve been working on this one road for four years now,” explains Peter, “picking up work by recommendation every time, and that’s something I’m really proud of. Once you’ve made one homeowner here happy then the jobs keep coming and it demonstrates that you’re working in the right way.”

AS Homes has been trading for five years and undertakes extensions, refurbs and one-off new builds across Hertfordshire. In that time Peter and his team have navigated the disruptions of Covid, and subsequent price hikes in

materials and labour, whilst the FMB has been a constant companion in business.

“I know I’m a good builder, and produce a high-quality finish, but it’s not always easy to communicate that to existing or prospective clients.” Peter reveals. “The FMB come out to inspect your work, makes sure you’re adhering to certain practises, have got the right insurances and are financially viable. In a

Peter Atkins of Herts-based AS Homes talks to Professional Builder’s Lee Jones about the benefits of FMB membership

competitive market, having that vetting process in place projects a positive image to the public and that’s a very useful tool. It provides you with a level of integrity. At the same time, If there are any issues on a job, the insurance warranties they offer to both the client and builder gives everyone peace of mind.”

Peter’s building business follows the model of so many in the industry. Whilst he is at the sharp end of the bricks and mortar his wife is helping out with the paperwork and accounts. In that context –for a time-poor tradesman – the trade association represents a vital resource. “One thing I really like is that the FMB is always on hand when you need them,” Peter continues. “Whether it’s changes in Building Regulations, or employment issues, I can pick up the phone and talk to someone. I’ve made good use of their building contract documents, and there’s loads of help on health & safety. These things can be a real minefield for a builder, especially if you’re not devoting the right amount of attention to them, and getting it wrong.”

Industry voice

In the past year Peter has also joined the board of the southern region of the Federation of Master Builders: “We meet once a quarter and, like the FMB itself, we’re a very diverse group. It’s been really interesting to get involved in the discussions because we’re able to make recommendations to the trade association as a whole and help to make it more relevant to its members. That’s really the appeal of the FMB – it gives SME firms who can otherwise be overlooked by legislators a voice.”

A significant element of the trade body’s role is in its campaigning on issues that directly affect its members. In recent years, the FMB has lobbied for a mandatory licensing scheme for construction, for example, a cut in VAT on repair, maintenance and improvement works, as well as issues pertaining to retrofit & energy efficiency and skills & training.

“The message the FMB is sending out on licensing is important,” enthuses Peter. “It will professionalise the industry and give builders a much higher status if they’re recognised for the highly skilled people

that they are. It can’t be right that anyone can decide to be a builder because the damage you can do to someone’s home, not to mention their well-being and mental health, can be enormous.

“Whether there’s an appetite for it in government I’m not so sure, but even raising the issue has an impact because it helps highlight what the FMB already have in place. Whilst we can’t claim to license our members the Federation of Master Builders is all about promoting accountability. Extending that principle further, with regular checks on your work – and making sure that you’re going about your business in the right way –can only be a good thing.”

Peter is equally supportive of the FMB’s insistence that the industry needs more SME housebuilders. Whilst he already undertakes one-off new builds for

private clients, like many small builders, he is confident it is an area of activity he could expand with the right support. “I could easily build 5-10 houses a year and there are hundreds of thousands of companies of my size – add that up and you could significantly increase the new build housing stock.”

“The only way we can affect any kind of change on any issue is it so come together as a collective and that’s what the FMB does for small builders,” concludes Peter. “The FMB does have access to government and, through us, they’re able to articulate the views of people that are actually doing the work on the ground.”

“The only way we can impose any kind of change on any issue is it so come together as a collective and that’s what the FMB does for small builders.”

IF THEY ARE TALKING WE ARE LISTENING!

AND YOU CAN TO, AS WE CATCH UP WITH SOME OF THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY’S MOST INTERESTING AND KNOWLEDGEABLE CHARACTERS ON THE NEW GROUND BREAKING PROFESSIONAL BUILDER PODCAST WITH SMITH AND JONES.

LEARN A NEW BUSINESS SKILL OR FINE TUNE AN OLD ONE FROM THE GUYS AND GIRLS AT THE SHARP END, WHO HAVE BEEN THERE, DONE IT AND GOT THE PB T SHIRT TO BOOT!

LISTEN NOW ON YOUR PODCAST PLATFORM OF CHOICE

“HARTT” AND SOLE!

QCarhartt has a long history stretching over 130 years –tell us more?

NP (Nick Poulson) Yes, the company was established in 1889 in Detroit, USA, when Hamilton Carhartt & Company was founded by its namesake, known affectionately as “Ham”, and began producing overalls with two sewing machines and a half-horsepower electric motor in a small Detroit loft. Under the motto, “Honest value for an honest dollar,” the iconic Carhartt bib overall was created and rapidly evolved into the standard for quality workwear.

For over 130 years, we have been known for our rugged construction, innovative designs, exceptional quality standards, durability and comfort and has become legendary among skilled tradespeople. The company really set a new standard of performance and continues to meet the evolving needs of hardworking people by weather-proofing its product line to provide the 24/7, year-round solutions they need in the rugged outdoors – especially on the construction site.

QWhy have you decided to focus on UK tradespeople now?

NP The time is right! Our heritage is built on tough workwear specifically designed for hard working professionals and is really well suited to the exacting standards tradespeople need here in the, let’s face it, often rainy and cold UK! The increased focus in the United Kingdom

includes the opening of our office in Newark, Nottinghamshire, a UK field sales team growing our number of stockists and really pushing the fact that with our workwear you can protect yourself and still look great on site and when it’s time to go home and relax too.

NP

Qwork you’re doing, we’ve got your back.

The workwear ranges from tough and comfortable work trousers, rugged and durable work jackets as well as fast drying and work T-shirts to certified safety shoes and work boots.

We also design workwear specifically for women. These designs fit and protect the body better and are, therefore, much safer. The rugged women’s workwear collection is designed to ensure that the modern woman is prepared for any job, whatever the weather.

QThe company name is famous in the fashion world too, isn’t it?

NP Yes, we have a sister fashion brand (known as Carhartt W.I.P.), but the legacy workwear brand is the one which Professional Builder readers will be most interested in and will use on site.

The trade can rely on our workwear to protect them, while looking great out on site. Our workwear is designed specifically for the tough construction site, and strong enough to get you through any working day, no matter how tough it is. Our founder, Hamilton Carhartt firmly believed that “when I make a sale, I make a permanent friend,” and the workwear is built to last with that ethos in mind to this very day.

Carhartt, the authentic workwear brand founded in 1889 in Detroit, Michigan, is focusing on helping and protecting hard working tradespeople in the UK. Professional Builder talks to Nick Poulson, UK Sales Manager, to find out more.

QThe workwear has a more relaxed ‘authentic’ look than other workwear brands?

NP It is true that we have kept an ‘authentic’ look to our clothing. Throughout our history, it has been our customers who have helped us identify several pieces of hard-working gear as ‘icons’. These are the products that have truly stood the test of time and whether adding pockets, colours, or incorporating our innovative technologies to combat rain, sweat and provide flexibility, at the heart of each product is the durability and reliability customers have come to know and love.

QDoes it still perform well out on site?

NP Yes it does. Some tradespeople have kept their jackets and trousers for years.

conditions are on the construction site.

The Rain Defender coating in our gear, for example, is a water-repellent technology, which means our jackets are built to stand up to light rain, on the job and after. For really wet conditions, look for the Storm Defender waterproof breathable outerwear, which stops every raindrop but allows body heat to escape.

Then we have our Super Dux collection which features ultra-tough gear that fights off wind and rain and flexes

worker through a lightweight fabric that is ounce for ounce as durable as our traditional sandstone duck jacket.

Force technology is engineered to beat the heat, fight sweat and dry fast, so you stay cool and comfortable 24/7. Hardworking men and women also told us they wanted gear with more stretch and recovery – and we listened –so Carhartt Full Swing is fully-engineered to improve the way you move – while keeping that classic look.

QWhat can PB readers expect to see over the coming months?

NP You will be seeing our Spring and Summer collections being launched and we will be working closely with Professional Builder to bring you competitions and giveaways, as well as insights into how to choose your workwear, like trousers, jackets, layers, hoodies, safety boots and accessories. FOR

LENDER Hand

Specialist development finance lenders are increasing in popularity, but how do they support SME housebuilders? David Alcock, Managing Director at Blend, reveals what these lenders

Development finance can be difficult for SME property developers to unlock. A survey of almost 200 SME home builders across England and Wales carried out by the Home Builder’s Federation revealed that access to finance remains one of the key barriers to housing delivery, even though stark regional differences exist. 18% of respondents in the north and 24% of respondents in the midlands saw development finance as a major obstacle, as compared to just 3% of respondents in the south.

Sadly, many small and medium sized housebuilders see development finance as a challenge that is preventing them from reaching their ambitions for growth and threatening the existence of some. Others see it as a dark art that’s difficult to untangle for many developers who are not large enough yet to have their own Head of Finance and who must rely on intermediaries to access funds.

But development finance is not a dark art. I should know, I am Managing Director at development finance lender Blend where transparency sits at the core of how we support developers we work with. However, what is true is that development finance is a very specialised area that needs very specialised lenders who understand the multiple challenges of being a property developer, to name but a few, build cost, planning and the rising cost of materials, among many others. And developers need a lending partner who can add value to their journey and

put them first.

have seen a shift towards specialist lending in the construction industry, with developers preferring to work with lenders who only focus on development finance. The more specialist, the better they are positioned to put on a developers’ hat and truly appreciate the challenges they face, be it from finding the right site at the right price through to the final unit sale and all that goes on in between.

So, what is specialist lending? Put simply, specialist lending is arranged using a specialist lender as opposed to a high street bank or building society. The growth of the specialist lending market over the past decade is nothing short of spectacular. According to the Bank of England, specialist lenders have increased lending volumes by 328% between 2009 and 2021, from under £5bn to more than £21bn. Perhaps even more impressive, they increased lending by 32%, or £5bn, between 2020 and 2021

alone. Today, specialist lenders have

Specialist lenders often adopt a more flexible approach to lending. To begin with, they tend to assess schemes on a case-by-case basis, not the ‘it doesn’t

eliminate the dreaded ‘the computer says no’ response that developers might otherwise receive from a high street

funding itself, specialist lenders are more likely to offer tailored funding solutions that work for the unique and changing needs of developers instead of off-the-

development proposals are the same, there are a myriad of variables that can

That’s why many specialist lenders are happy to advertise their solution-focused development experience at every level. Property developers appreciate this highly personalised and tailored service to lending and the supportive approach to navigating the challenges of funding. That means that they can focus on what they do best, building and developing much needed homes in the knowledge that they have a funder who speaks their language and understands their business.

offer and what they look for.

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SUPER SUB!

Luxury vinyl tiles (LVTs) and planks have enjoyed and continue to enjoy massive growth in UK flooring installations. Offering a plethora of styles and designs – often mimicking the appearance of traditional materials, such as timber and stone – LVTs are not the cheap and cheerful option associated with their 1970s’ ancestors.

In fact, many of today’s high end LVTs are anything but cheap and represent a significant investment. Customers rightly expect the finished appearance of their flooring to reflect this investment – they want the ‘Wow! Factor’. To deliver it, professional preparation of the subfloor is absolutely essential in optimising the aesthetics of the floor and also in safeguarding it against the number one cause of flooring installation failure.

To achieve the perfect finish when installing LVTs (or any vinyl for that matter), it is important that the subfloor base is completely smooth and free from undulations. LVTs are, by their nature, thin

and flexible. When they are adhered to a subfloor any high spots or depressions in the subfloor can show through the material and be visible on the surface, increasingly so as the floor is walked on. LVTs and planks will also follow the

contour of the floor, including any dips and undulations present.

To avoid these issues, the application of a levelling compound is essential. The levelling compound will smooth out any high spots and indentations and create a perfectly smooth and visually level subfloor surface, ready to receive the LVT. We would recommend a levelling compound that can deliver strength and toughness to keep the floor in prime condition.

If LVT is going to be installed over plywood, a fibre-reinforced, high performance levelling compound should be used, which will be able to cope with slight flexing of the subfloor as it is walked on. The fibres act in a similar way to steel rods in reinforced concrete, maintaining the integrity of the cementitious compound. As well as being suitable over plywood subfloors, these high performance compounds are equally

products manufacturer, Setcrete, explains what preparation subfloors need when installing luxury vinyl tiles (LVTs)

effective for use over other subfloor types, including normal sand/cement screeds and concrete. So, if you have an installation with a mix of subfloor types, the same levelling compound can be used throughout.

Once the levelling compound has fully dried, it provides the perfect surface for installing LVTs. The smooth, blemish-free levelling compound facilitates easy application of the adhesive using a notched trowel and provides a surface texture that encourages the adhesive to key into it, thereby delivering a strong, secure bond.

First things first

To make sure that your pristine job maintains its aesthetic appearance and integrity, there is a critical first step that needs to be taken before even reaching for your electric mixer to prepare your first bucket of levelling compound. That is to check the subfloor for the presence of excess moisture; a hidden menace that continues to be the number one cause of flooring installation failures.

The cause of moisture may be rising damp or water ingress, especially in older homes where a damp proof course may not be present or may have been breached. In new homes it is likely to be residual construction moisture in the screed (a sand/cement subfloor dries at an approximate rate of 1mm per day).

surface and then become trapped under

the floorcovering. With nowhere to go, it will attack the adhesive used to adhere the floorcovering, resulting in vinyl floors blistering or tiles lifting. It can also lead to bacterial growth, presenting a health hazard for occupants.

to tell if moisture is present or not is to use a moisture meter or digital hygrometer.

A hand-held moisture meter, used at various points around a room, will indicate if moisture is present or not. But to get an accurate reading of moisture levels, a digital hygrometer should be used, again, at various points around the room.

Measured in terms of relative humidity (RH), the moisture content of a subfloor must be below 75% RH (this is reduced to below 65% if wood flooring is being installed). If excess moisture is detected, the application of a single-coat, epoxy resin damp proof membrane (DPM) will provide protection up to 98% RH.

Failure to check for moisture and deal with it appropriately not only risks compromising the integrity of the subfloor, but also risks damaging your reputation. It’s not worth taking the risk.

Once the moisture level has been checked and, if required, a DPM has been applied, the installation of the levelling compound and floor covering can proceed, starting with the use of a primer to promote the adhesion of the levelling compound to the subfloor or DPM and also to prevent the unacceptably rapid drying of the levelling compound when applied over absorbent subfloors.

The result: an LVT installation with all the ‘Wow! factor’ you could ask for and, importantly, one that will keep its tip top appearance throughout its lifetime.

PITCH PERFECT

The pavilion, located in Edinburgh, is a single storey building with 400 square metres of roofing and traditional details, such as white pillars and fencing and a central bell tower.The roof had started to fail, with the tiles showing signs of going porous and, as a result, a complete refurbishment was needed.

With the original structure dating back to 1906, the Pavilion is not only a muchloved historical college building, but with many prestigious matches played every year, it is also one of the most-used sites for recreation on campus.

Naturally, its roof needs to match the heritage of the pavilion and the wider college grounds, while being safe and watertight for the long term. Contractors

harshest Scottish weather for years to come. It is also a solution that allowed them to carry out detailed work to preserve the historic building.

The Rosemary tile has been in production since 1837 and is available in a wide variety of colours and finishes, which are designed to fit in with the regional variations in clay found on plain tile roofs throughout the UK. Plus, as a complete system, the tiles are robust enough to withstand even the worst weather.

While the reroofing itself was fairly straightforward, the roofing team had to master a couple of unforeseen challenges during the refurbishment, working to tight deadlines, during unpredictable Scottish weather, and working on a live school site to complete the new roof ahead of a major annual cricket fixture.

The challenge:

There were two main challenges of this project, the first being the bottom corners of the section underneath the bell tower. The vertical tiling had to be done with extreme caution to ensure the sand-cement needed to fix the

tiles to the roof did not damage the remainder of the roof, while the tiles had to be cut by hand to ensure they fit the niche size required for this section of roof.

Additionally, Fettes College is a busy boarding school, with pupils and staff on site at all times. So, the contractors needed to work closely with the school and take extra precautions with the deliveries to site. Also, because the reroof took place during the coronavirus pandemic, once the materials were on site, the team had to work to strict health and safety measures, while ensuring minimal disruption to the lively campus, and securing materials safely while not on site.

The solution:

Since the pitched roof of the Cricket Pavilion is the focal point of the Fettes College cricket field and a Listed Building, with over 22,000 tiles to be installed, Newtown Roofing needed to ensure attention to detail was maintained throughout the project. Therefore, they employed the use of BMI Redland’s

BMI Redland’s Rosemary Clay Classic tiles in Red breathe a new lease of life to the roof of the Fettes College cricket pavilion.

roofing, flooring & insulation

roofing, flooring & insulation

took almost four months, as the Scottish weather kept the team of four roofers off the roof for a number of days, making the process that bit more challenging.

The impact:

SpecMaster service to guide the project and steer it in the right direction.

The refurbishment required complete stripping of the former roof, including both tiles and counter battening, before rotten timbers could be either replaced or repaired, depending on their state. The roof was then felted with a breathable membrane, and fitted with new code 6 lead valleys, before new cast iron gutters and downpipes could be installed.

Finally, the roof was retiled with over 22,000 Rosemary tiles on a wet verge with two coats of sand-cement. The section of roof underneath the bell tower presented the most complex challenge, as it required vertical tiling, which is difficult with sand-cement, and as the corner tiles did not fit the difficult corners of the roof, the team cut specific tiles by hand and installed them with precision.

The refurbishment of the entire roof

The new tiles matched the existing look of the cricket pavilion building, and the reroof therefore reflected the heritage of the pavilion and of Fettes College, all whilst being able to withstand the unpredictable Scottish weather. Additionally, because the new tiles were such a close match to the original, no planning permission was required, as the reroof was a like-for-like replacement.

Adding to the success of the project: it was completed on time, in exactly four months, on budget and completed to the client’s approval.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON REDLAND’S ROSEMARY TILES IN RED USE THE RDR LINK AND VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ034

THE LOW DOWN

Designed specifically for use on low pitch roofs, this lightweight bituminous underlay sheeting has been rigorously tested and is proven to be an exceptional waterproofing layer. It is the only system in the UK to be BRE tested and BBA Accredited to as low as 10˚.

With a corrugation height of just 24mm, Isoline Low Line is fixed below the tile or slate roof covering, acting as the primary waterproofing layer of a roof. This makes roof tiles a secondary line of defence enabling the pitch of the roof to be much lower than the minimum as recommended by the tile manufacturer. There are three main types of roof structure Isoline Low Line can be installed on:

Battened

Full deck

Warm roof

Installation of the lightweight panels is straightforward, and no specialist tools

Fixing tiles and slates

Note: The system is designed to allow tiles and slates to be laid below the manufacturer’s minimum recommended roof pitch. In all other respects the manufacturer’s fixing specifications must be adhered to utilising enhanced fixings as required to counter increased wind uplift.

Installation guide for battened roofs

Prepare the roof eaves detail to suit the roof pitch, this is constructed by incorporating a fascia board, a tilting fillet and an eaves tray support board where required. The eaves tray can then be installed and fixed to the roof structure. If using a membrane, lay it in between the rafters with a slight drape (max. 15mm is recommended) and on top of the eaves

The support battens are then installed using the tile gauge (distance between battens) as per the tile manufacturer’s recommendation. Support battens should be a minimum of 50mm x 38mm in size and mechanically fixed to rafters.

The Isoline Low Line sheets can then be installed. Starting at the bottom of the roof, lay a row of sheets using the eaves line to align the sheets in parallel to the fascia board. For ease of use, each sheet incorporates two horizontally embossed overlapping guidelines. Overlap the sheets horizontally by two guide lines (approximately 210mm). For vertical overlap use two corrugations (approximately 100mm).

Similar to tiling, the sheets must be staggered. Start the second row up and every other alternate course with the sheet cut in half vertically to create a broken bond sheet pattern. Tiling battens can then be laid on top of the Isoline sheets and aligned with the support battens. Use suitable nails or screws to fix the system together.

A smooth shank fixing is recommended with a minimum head diameter of 3.5mm. Fixings must only penetrate the sheets at the apex of the corrugation and must be used at approximately every 300mm along the length of the tiling batten. Any fixing used must penetrate the support battens by a minimum of 15mm.

Ardit Strica, Technical Manager for Onduline Building Products, explains how Onduline’s sub roof system can help builders achieve an aesthetically pleasing tiled look, while ensuring a low pitch is watertight.

Then fix the ventilator comb between the eaves battens and finish by overlaying eaves battens with a batten cloaking piece. Use deep flow guttering to reduce the risk of rainwater over-shooting.

Installation guide for a fully boarded roof

Use timber decking (minimum 20mm) to fully board the area. Eaves trays should then be installed and fixed to the boards. If you’re using a membrane, this should be laid next. Lay the membrane on top of the eaves tray with a minimum overlap of 100mm between the two. Ensure the membrane is not carried on past the top fascia board edge.

Follow the installation instructions as outlined above for a battened roof.

Installation guide for a warm roof Isoline Low Line can be installed above a warm roof, providing the appropriate fixings and Ondutiss vapour permeable membrane is used. Adequate ventilation must be incorporated in the system. Note: Our secondary roofing system forms a cold roof, it cannot form an integral part of a warm roof section but can be installed above it.

Verges / ridges / hips / side and end wall abutment details

At ridges and hips lay the roofing membrane across the butt joint in the sheets and dress down a minimum of 300mm either side of the ridge. When using ventilation products, the membrane can be trimmed instead at the ridge level

to allow the flow of air.

For side wall abutments use a conventional 2-3 layer waterproofing system as shown on the image above. Note: the top-most flashing layer must be chased into the wall.

For the end wall abutment, fold the roofing membrane upwards on to the wall (approx. 100mm). Install Onduline Apron Flashing Piece. The tile battens and tiles can then be fixed and a two-part lead flashing can be applied. Abutment ventilators can also be used.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT PRODUCTS AVAILABLE FROM ONDULINE AND TO VIEW THE FULL INSTALLATION GUIDE, VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ035

LIFE TILE CHOICE

Thanks to the latest technology and modern manufacturing techniques, concrete roof tiles are much more resilient, and sustainable too, making them a great choice for any roofing project. Concrete roof tiles are the ideal choice for any construction project that needs a product that is long-lasting and reliable.

Not only are concrete tiles highly resistant to severe weather and require little upkeep, but they are also ecofriendly. Specifically, thinner leading-edge concrete roof tiles can be a good sustainable roofing solution. These tiles use 15 per cent less raw materials than a standard concrete roof tile and the product has less depth. This means that around 20 per cent more tiles can be

packed onto a pallet which equates to a much lower carbon footprint when transporting them.

It’s also worth noting, due to the materials used to manufacture concrete roof tiles, the lifespan of the tiles lasts around 50 years, meaning that re-roofing is not needed as often.

Easy to install

Concrete roof tiles – many of which feature an interlocking design that allows for a fast and reliable installation – are an excellent option for those seeking to save time during the installation process.

Russell Roof Tiles is one of the leading

Russell Roof Tiles provides an array of interlocking small format tiles that ‘click’ together seamlessly, making them perfect for anyone seeking a speedy, reliable roofing solution. Additionally, concrete roof tiles are cost-effective compared to other materials available on the market, making them an ideal choice for budgetminded builders who don’t want to sacrifice on style for affordability.

Versatile

When looking to add value to a project while maintaining an authentic, regional aesthetic, concrete roof tiles are a great choice. Made from durable, reliable materials and manufactured with modern techniques, these roof tiles can provide superior strength while still maintaining a unique character that complements any property.

With colours and profiles that mimic traditional clay, stone and slate tiles, concrete roof tiles offer a long-term investment that can withstand even the harshest weather conditions, which is worth considering if the project is being built in an exposed area that is prone to cold snaps.

Sustainable

In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the demand for sustainable solutions in the construction

Concrete roof tiles are often overlooked, but they offer many advantages over traditional clay, stone and slate tiles, argues Russell Roof Tiles

roofing, flooring & insulation

whole roof solutions. This is applicable where the specification has been followed and detailed in accordance with its advice provided in the fixing specification and instruction. By having guarantees of this kind in place, builders and contractors know the manufacturer is committed to providing a high-quality product.

industry. Concrete roof tiles are a great choice for customers looking to create a sustainable building, as they’re both durable and low-maintenance. The process of manufacturing concrete roof tiles, requires considerably less energy, as they are cured at a much lower temperature for only a short amount of time, whereas clay tiles require extensive power as they fire clay in a 1,000+ºC kiln for up to 48 hours.

Russell Roof Tiles has reported a 30 per

benefit of concrete over clay is that it’s significantly stronger — this means customers, residents and builders do not need to worry about leaks or water damage from heavy rainfall! (If fitted correctly).

Peace of mind

Many concrete roof tile manufacturers also provide guarantees on their products, which provide all parts of the supply chain with assurance that they are receiving a viable product from a credible

So, why choose concrete roof tiles? They are an excellent option for those looking for added strength while still being able to maintain a unique aesthetic. With increased versatility and replication of regional clay, slate or stone styles, it’s easy to see why concrete roof tiles are quickly becoming the go-to choice for many. FOR

THE PHYLLITE ZONE

Today, phyllite is a worldleading architectural stone, prized by developers and quality-conscious builders around the world for its beauty and versatility, but 25 years ago, the material was relatively unknown.

That’s not to say it was new. It’d been around a long time – a very long time. 560 million years, in fact, if you count the incomprehensibly lengthy period it spent developing in the Earth’s crust. But compared to other natural materials used in construction, like slate and stone, its use was much less common, and its huge potential for roofing, cladding and flooring went relatively untapped.

Finding phyllite

It was 25 years ago this year that we launched the Riverstone brand – our world-class Argentinian phyllite. By this stage, SSQ was already a leading supplier of quality Spanish slate. Since the 1980s, we’d been sourcing material from the best Spanish quarries – which traditionally had only gone to France – and bringing it to customers around the world.

But we’d also decided we wanted to add other strings to our bow – to find other outstanding natural materials that could

help our clients maintain a competitive edge, and stand out from the crowd.

Going in search of those materials was a major undertaking for us, and quite daunting. We’d built an impressive reputation off the back of our uncompromising quality standards when it came to natural slate, and we knew it’d be an extremely hard act to follow. So we scoured the world for material that would meet our exacting requirements – and eventually, our search took us to Argentina, where we found phyllite.

Originally, hundreds of millions of years ago, it was a soft rock like shale or mudstone. Then it was buried, and over almost unimaginable lengths of time, heat, pressure and chemical activity turned the clay minerals inside it into flake-shaped

mica minerals. Those mica minerals gradually enlarged and were forced into parallel alignment.

We call the result ‘phyllite’. The word stems from the Greek word ‘phyllon’, or leaf, which seems a strange name until you look at it up close – it’s got a greenish tinge, and can be split extremely thin. But the bottom line from a construction perspective is that phyllite is a fantastic roofing material.

Really, it exists in the perfect geological sweet spot. The extra millennia have made it harder and stronger than slate. But it’s not yet become so hard that

SSQ’s founder and Managing Director, Ahmed El-Helw, tells the story of its celebrated Riverstone phyllite, which is now marking its twenty-fifth anniversary.

phyllitic sheen – and its attractive grey-green colour instantly distinguishes it from other products on the market.

Unparalleled quality

In Argentina, we found world-class phyllite being produced by the San Luis quarry in the country’s La Repressa region. I was immediately impressed with both the quarry, and the material it supplied, so we began buying it in. The Riverstone brand was born. Over time, the product proved so popular with our customers that it made financial sense to buy a stake in the quarry, and I became a shareholder.

Then, we took the relationship a step closer, and SSQ acquired the operation outright. Because of that, we’re able to guarantee the quality of the material we produce to a far greater extent than a customer that just buys in from an external supplier. We’ve had Riverstone extensively tested, with impressive results. Assessed to ASTM C406 standard, Riverstone was awarded an S1 rating, indicating it will last a minimum of 75 years.

It’s also been tested to see how reactive the iron oxides on its surface are. Highly reactive iron oxides lead to discoloration and leaching over time. Riverstone, on the other hand, received T1 classification – meaning it’s highly unlikely that any leaching

25 years of excellence

On Riverstone’s 25th anniversary, I want to take this opportunity to recognise the incredible skill and expertise of the staff who operate the San Luis quarry – and thank them for their two and a half decades of tireless work.

It’s only thanks to their efforts that we’ve been able to bring Riverstone to thousands of customers around the world, from nations around Europe, to America, Australia and beyond. I’m excited to bring Riverstone to thousands more new customers in the decades to come.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON RIVERSTONE FROM SSQ VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ038

MAKING LIGHT WORK OF IT

Lightweight metal roofing systems….what are they? Metrotile explains all

Even in these enlightened times, for many people in the construction sector mention a ‘metal’ roofing system and they will conjure up a vision of corrugated metal sheets on a shed roof. For those people, they are missing out on possibly the most sustainable, eco-friendly and low maintenance roofing systems available in today’s roofing sector.

These roofing systems – the bestknown ones come from Metrotile – are perfect options for residential and commercial properties, conservatories, park homes, vertical cladding and even on glamping pods – they are hugely versatile.

And aesthetically pleasing too. Steel roofing tiles look every bit as effective as traditional slate and tile roofs – coming as they do in a range of finishes – that from ground level are almost indistinguishable from traditional options. And you can even specify metal tiles with solar panels incorporated in them if required.

Light in weight

Let’s take a closer look at the benefits that come with lightweight metal roofing systems. The first clue is in the name –lightweight. Weighing in at around one seventh the weight of traditional roofing materials, they offer weight bearing benefits, and just imagine the transport benefits of using these lightweight metal tiles – you can transport seven times as many tiles on a truck and they offer significant safety benefits on site. Transporting these tiles sees far less CO

generated during transport as well, adding to its reputation as a far more environmentally friendly option.

Once on site – or in the factory for modular construction projects – these metal tiles are simplicity itself to install. There is a technique to installation, but the tiles can be hand nailed into battens to provide a quick and easy to learn option for any competent installer for their construction projects. Downloadable installation guides and detailed, easy to understand You Tube videos on how to install lightweight metal tiles are available online.

And the safety aspects of working with lightweight metal roofing systems cannot be overstated. The weight of the tiles on site, the ease of moving them around the site and on the roof itself, it’s a perfect option for transport and loading and off-loading. The finished roofs are highly fire resistant and can even slow down the rate of spread of fires because of their construction. The roofs are also vandal proof and can withstand heavy footfall making them safe and durable, for options from schools and

leisure centres to park homes and conservatories.

Low maintenance

A 40-year weatherproofing guarantee also highlights the longevity of this easy to install, good looking roofing option.

And in the current climate, when building materials need to be eco-friendly, you are working with a product that is 100% recyclable as well.

The size of metal roofing tiles compared to traditional ones means the price per metre squared tends to be much lower for metal tiles. In addition to the purchase price, the ease of installation sees a saving on installation time and project costs. Lightweight metal roofing systems come with all the certificates and quality marks – ISO9001 and ISO14001 certificates, BBA, CE Mark, BIM and 3D Renders, fire ratings, CPD seminars, training and risk analysis.

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THE DOOR COLLECTION

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Product displayed: OB-72

YOUR DAY IN THE SUN

Kevin Taylor, Marley’s Training & Technical Support Manager, will be offering his advice and opinions on all things roofing related every month in Professional Builder. This month, he looks at the opportunities that solar PV offers installers

Kevin boasts over 40 years’ experience in the roofing industry having first started as an apprentice in his father’s firm in Doncaster. With a very ‘hands on’ approach, he enjoyed working outdoors with a variety of different materials and techniques including concrete interlocking tiles, natural slating, clay pantiles, vertical tiling and even cedar wood shingles.

Nine years on the tools and a City & Guilds Craft Certificate later, Kevin became a contracts manager and estimator, as well as lecturing part time at Leeds College of Building – where he had studied.

Enjoying the educational environment, Kevin switched to full time lecturing, finding himself the youngest lecturer at the college and leading his apprentices to success in the National SkillBuild competition on several occasions.

Later, Kevin was approached by the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) to advise on slating and tiling and head up technical, training and competitions. During his 12 years

there, he worked to reduce roof failures via a series of joint seminars to drive the dry fix agenda, was part of the biggest revision of BS5534 for many years and trained all slating and tiling members on the new British Standards when major changes came in 2014.

Kevin is also author of the roofing bible – ‘Roof Tiling and Slating – A Practical Guide’ – an easy to use, practical manual which is widely used in training centres and colleges across the UK.

Kevin said: ‘I’m looking forward to working with Marley, it will be great to be part of a team again. Having worked in so many different areas of the industry, I appreciate what’s needed to achieve a good quality roof – and that’s everyone working together.’

“We can work with you to support finding solar opportunities and offering your team training and guidance on the product range and system – increasing your confidence when talking to your customers. We’re here to help guide you through the solar opportunities that lie ahead.”

Kevin Taylor, Marley’s Training & Technical Support Manager

roofing, flooring & insulation

‘The next big opportunity for roofers is solar PV. Increasing energy costs are encouraging more consumers to turn to solar to help reduce their energy bills. This fact, coupled with the changes to Part L of the Building Regulations along with the zero rate VAT on installing energy saving materials in residential properties means that the already high demand for solar on both new build and refurbishment projects is high and is rising.

‘It is up to manufacturers and roofing contractors to work together to make the most of the opportunity to benefit everyone.’

Marley SolarTile – designed to deliver Developed to deliver on aesthetics, installation and, most importantly, sustainability, Marley SolarTile is ideal for both new build and the retro-fit markets.

Thanks to its double fixing to battens and trusses, counter battens are not

costly tile breakages on the roof is greatly reduced.

Totally compatible with all clay and concrete tiles and slates, Marley SolarTile comes as a complete kit. Colour-coded boxes make for easy installation whilst the patented push-together design helps achieve installation times of less than one hour per kilowatt peak.

When used alongside a full range of the manufacturer’s roofing products, Marley SolarTile forms part of its full roof system, complete with its 15-year guarantee.

Kevin said: ‘We can work with you to support finding solar opportunities and offering your team training and guidance on the product range and system –increasing your confidence when talking to your customers. We’re here to help guide you through the solar opportunities that lie ahead.’

TUFF TALKING

Approved Document Part O of the Building Regulations were amended to protect people’s health and welfare by reducing the occurrences of high indoor temperatures, especially in the face of rising global temperatures, and the frequency of extreme events such as heatwaves. Brought into force in June and swiftly followed by the UK’s summer hitting highs of 40°C, there was no question the changes were sensible and necessary.

The new regulations detail permitted glazed areas, taking into consideration cross-ventilation and the building’s location – which means buildings in high risks areas (which currently include specific postcodes in London and Manchester) may also need to provide shading for glazed areas through the use of external shutters or overhangs, for example.

Good suppliers immediately moved to ensure their products would meet the new requirements, while better suppliers made sure their trade partners and customers knew what these requirements were and what installers needed to comply, as well as providing the advice, information and paperwork to go with it.

The best suppliers, however, haven’t stopped there. We’re aware Building Regulation changes are part of an ongoing and focussed drive as the country moves towards its target of net zero by 2050. The industry can expect more changes aimed at improving the

energy efficiency of buildings, with the Government’s Future Homes and Building Standards due to come into force in 2025, just two short years away.

At TuffX we’re always looking ahead to the future, not only so we can be prepared but so our customers can assure their customers we’re not just complying, we’re actively putting futureproofing homes front and centre of our product offerings.

Doc O requirements were all about tackling overheating in new residential

buildings, ensuring unwanted solar gain in summer is limited and that adequate heat is removed from the indoor environment at the same time.

As leading suppliers of rooflights, this has been one of our customers’ – and hence ours – top priorities since our inception. No one wants an uncomfortable, unusable space for any part of the year, no matter how light and bright and welcoming it might look.

That’s why we offer high-quality solar glass products, including a blue tint option across our range of rooflights for an ambient interior temperature. This is a tinted coating on the exterior of the glass that works to reflect heat away from the interior.

We’ve also developed a new rooflight in our Infinity range that actually reflects twice as much heat as standard glass. This is achieved through a unique new coating which, unlike most solar glass, is actually untinted. This means it minimises solar heat gain whilst maximising light transmission at the same time, helping to maintain comfortable temperatures indoors during the increasingly hot summer months.

Come winter, this ability to flood an internal area with natural, untinted daylight comes into its own, making the most of even the overcast days. Mitigating heat loss becomes essential during winter too, of course, which is why our new rooflight has a U-value of 1.0 –exceeding current Building Regulation requirements and making it the UK’s most energy efficient rooflight all year round.

When it comes to meeting glazing standards for preventing overheating, TuffX’s Commercial Director Paul Higgins explains there are important differences between good, better and best practices.

LOFTY IDEALS

density over time. In tests, it is proven to provide consistent performance – even up to 55 years –without a drop in its thermal properties.

Easy installation

over half a century.

Enquiries for loft insulation jobs are on the up and it’s no surprise given that a fitting 270mm of insulation in an uninsulated loft could save up to 1,310kg of CO2 per year in a detached home. The loft insulation market is vast, with a wide range of material types, but not all are created equal when it comes to long term thermal performance.

In fact, a reason you might be seeing an influx in enquiries is homeowners realising their loft insulation has sagged over time. For insulation to be effective –and remain so – dimensional stability is key as the air pockets within it help prevent heat transfer. Squashed and sagging insulation can affect these energy-saving capabilities.

To prevent this, it’s important to recommend a product that’s going to keep its strength and, in turn, its thermal performance. Stone wool loft insulation is ideal for this as it maintains its shape and

Dimensional stability, density and flexibility also help when it comes to installation as you don’t have to precisely cut around rafters for a tight finish. Simply trim with a serrated knife or insulation saw and friction fit.

To maximise thermal performance and minimise heat loss through the timbers, loft insulation should be cross-layered between and over the ceiling joists. The first layer (generally of 100mm thickness) is rolled between the ceiling joists, which are normally spaced at 400mm or 600mm centres and two layers of 100mm thickness are then cross layered over the ceiling joists for a total thickness of 300mm.

Products such as Rockwool Thermal Insulation Roll are designed to make this installation process more straightforward as it is supplied as a pre-split twin roll, with two 100mm layers for coverage in

To make sure loft insulation performs as well as possible, it’s important to have accurate measurements so there are no gaps where heat can escape and likewise make sure there’s no open joints before rolls. Before fitting, inspect all joists, structural elements and electrical cabling too and any rot, damp or moisture should be looked at by a specialist prior to installation.

More than thermal

Thermal performance will likely be the main reason for installing loft insulation but isn’t the only benefit. Stone wool loft insulation is fire resilient, with products such as Rockwool Thermal Roll certified Euroclass A1 non-combustible. This means it does not contribute to fire growth and is capable of withstanding temperatures in excess of 1,000°C. Stone wool insulation also absorbs vibrations and traps unwanted sounds to reduce nuisance noise both to and from the home and has been proven to reduce up to 40% of incoming noise near airports. A further benefit is its breathability, with stone wool allowing air vapour to pass through its structure and escape, reducing the risk of damp and mould which are common in lofts, and the remedial works they bring.

Bringing further environmental benefits, stone wool insulation is also reusable and recyclable, and Rockwool products are net carbon negative, saving over 100 times more CO2 during their lifetime than was emitted during their production.

James Francis, product manager at Rockwool, shares advice on how to choose loft insulation that’s good for the customer and you.

GROUND CONTROL

A. Proctor Group explains how you can protect against radon

Radon is a naturally occurring, colourless and odourless radioactive gas. In Ground Gas terms, Radon is produced by the radioactive decay of trace amounts of uranium found in specific soil and rock types. Therefore, the site geology determines the level of Radon present as opposed to historical usage or pollution. This type of geology is most common in areas with granite bedrock, such as Devon, Cornwall, the Peak District, Northamptonshire, south Wales and northeast Scotland.

Radon is harmful to humans as the radioactive elements formed by its decay can be inhaled into the lungs, where they continue to emit harmful alpha particles. These alpha particles cause localised damage to the lung tissue, leading to the development of lung cancer.

Radon in buildings

The average UK household radon level is 20Bq/m³. The current “action level” for residential buildings is 200Bq/m³, and for commercial buildings, it is 300Bq/m³. If the Radon level is at or above the action level, protective measures must be taken to reduce the ingress of the Radon.

There are several main routes of ingress for Radon or any other ground gas. These include cracked or porous solid floors, junctions and joints between components, cracked or porous belowground walls such as in basements, gaps in suspended floors, porous walls and foundations, gaps at service penetrations and pipes and through cavity walls.

Due to the geological origins of Radon gas, there is generally no scope to remove or neutralise the source of the gas, so barrier and venting solutions are most commonly employed. However, limiting the extent of the ingress paths here can help by reducing the long-term reliance on a barrier and providing additional protection.

Low-risk areas with less than a 1% chance of exceeding action levels do not require any special measures to be taken. Sites between 3 and 10% are classed as medium risk and require a basic level of protection, with sites over 10% being high risk and requiring full protective

measures. Basic protection typically comprises a Radon barrier membrane within the floor or solum of the building, linked to a damp proof course in the wall.

This barrier system should extend across the entire footprint of the building, including the cavity, and all overlaps and

service penetrations should be fully sealed. Full protection requires a Radon barrier membrane but supplements this with additional ventilation to increase the rate of gas exfiltration. The ventilation can be a ventilated void. If there is no void, then a Radon sump should be installed. Ventilation systems are usually passive, with the option to convert to active by adding mechanical extraction fans. Active ventilation is only necessary if Radon levels are above the action level, even with a barrier membrane and passive ventilation.

Selecting and installing

Ensuring a barrier membrane system works effectively requires the material used to be suitably robust and the system to be well installed. Like other ground gas protection measures, the system is only as good as its installation, and if joints are not properly sealed or the membrane is punctured, then adequate performance cannot be guaranteed. However, a properly designed and fitted barrier will also function as a damp-proofing membrane.

The BBA requires Radon barrier membranes to be at least 0.4mm, or 400 microns in thickness. It’s important to remember, though, that membranes, if stretched, will become thinner, so ensuring that the material has good tensile strength and elongation characteristics will ensure that the membrane retains its properties.

When installed under a slab, for example, concrete poured on top can exert forces on the material, causing it to stretch, and become thinner, creating a zone where the permeation of gas becomes more likely, even if the membrane is still intact and unbroken. This is the risk of using unreinforced DPM-style membranes for Radon protection. Reinforced membranes made from virgin material typically have the best mechanical strength properties thickness for thickness. The A. Proctor Group’s Protech Radon 400 membrane is manufactured from 100% virgin polymer with a polyester reinforcing scrim to provide excellent robustness and minimal elongation under load.

Once the membrane is installed, it should be thoroughly inspected prior to covering, as fixing any issues after the membrane is covered is often effectively impossible. This inspection should look for continuity issues such as unsealed joints, unsealed penetrations such as waste pipes, and punctures. Finally, although it may seem obvious, it’s also essential that the protective membrane and any associated accessories, such as DPCs, extend across the entire footprint of the building, from external to external, closing off any potential gas ingress points. This includes closing off any cavity walls with a suitably sealed and gasresistant DPC.

It’s crucial that any basements or

occupied underground spaces are protected, particularly as Radon can permeate not only through the floor but also through the retaining walls. For a typical domestic house, the areas in contact with the ground could be several times higher than for a similar house without a basement. This risk is further compounded by the lack of natural ventilation in spaces below ground level.

Alongside this, it’s also important to consider waterproofing when creating a new basement or converting an existing cellar. Guidance and recommendations for basement waterproofing are given in BS8102, which also advises on the importance of considering Radon mitigation when designing basements. In these situations, it’s usually best to appoint a specialist to design and install the combined system, as Radon and waterproofing requirements can sometimes conflict.

Radon protection for extensions

While providing protection to an extension when there’s none in the existing building may seem pointless, a subfloor depressurisation system can help provide some degree of protection to the existing structure. Space for a sump under the existing structure can be created by locating the new sump and extraction pipework adjacent to the existing structure and knocking through the existing wall. The new depressurisation system can therefore extract from the fully protected extension and the existing unprotected structure via the two linked sumps.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON THE A PROCTOR GROUP’S RADON PROTECTION SYSTEMS VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ042

FOR FURTHER GUIDANCE ON RADON FROM THE UK HEALTH SECURITY AGENCY’S WEBSITE VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ043

SEEING IS BELIEVING!

Being able to model home improvements has become commonplace. Kitchen and bathroom showrooms design and reconfigure new projects at the touch of a button for clients to visualise in their own home. And window fitters are now using online design and quote generators more and more – with recent research showing that over half of all quotes prepared for homeowners are accompanied by a visualisation.

Freefoam Building Products are proud to announce the launch of two fantastic new digital tools aimed at the growing cladding market – a new cladding visualiser that will enable the simulation of the manufacturer’s cladding products on to a project, and a clever new cladding calculator that generates accurate product quantities of boards, trims, fitting battens and screws to help with accurate costings.

Taking cladding visualisation to the next level.

The new visualiser takes researching and choosing exterior cladding to the next level, giving specifiers, installers and homeowners the power to superimpose high quality representations of any cladding product or colour on to a photo of the project premises. With the built in capability to change the type of cladding product, ‘cut out’ areas for windows and doors and choose different colour options, the tool gives the opportunity to truly experiment and takes the ‘try before you buy’ capability a step closer to reality.

Taking the guess work out of cladding calculation.

The new Cladding Calculator too takes all the guesswork out of calculating products for a project. Choose a house shape, fill in measurements, choose trims and the

calculator will work out exactly how many cladding boards and fitting trims are needed. Freefoam has also taken this one step further and included specification quantities of wooden battens, membrane and fixing screws too – to ensure your estimates are as accurate as can be by providing you with a complete and accurate ‘shopping list’ for each project.

Colin St John, Commercial Director explained: “We wanted to give all our customers the opportunity to see the

Game changers for the cladding market is how Freefoam Building Products is describing its new digital tools

needs of the more discerning customer and provide tools that will help and support them in their decision making.

Both of these tools are game changers for the cladding market. It puts the decision maker firmly in the driving seat, makes our products accessible and attractive to the home improvement market and puts us at the heart of the buying decision.”

Developed in conjunction with innovative start up Augmented Reality Creations, the tools are aimed at both homeowners, and cladding installers to enable the right choices to be made. They give peace of mind to the homeowner and it provides trade professionals the capability to impress clients with a visual representation of the proposed project and takes any apprehension out of the decision process.

Aidan Harte, CEO, concluded: “Cladding is a growing market and we

cladding products and these new tools are part of our ongoing strategy to make our products easily accessible to consumers. We have put significant investment into these tools, to give our customers high quality, responsive online applications that offer them both inspiration and choice and accurate specification details to support and encourage them to make the decision that is right for them.”

IF YOU WANT TO FIND OUT HOW TO USE THE CLADDING VISUALISER VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ044

■ About Freefoam Building Plastics

Freefoam is a leading manufacturer of PVC-U and PVC-UE building products including a wide range of fascias, soffits, rainwater systems, external cladding and interior decorative paneling. Its PVC products, which are available in a large range of colours and designs, offer house builders, developers and installers a high-quality, low-maintenance alternative to conventional timber, backed by industry-leading guarantees.

A 50-year Lifetime Extended Guarantee is available to Freefoam

Registered Installers on white roofline products, for example. This is in addition to a 20-year Lifetime Guarantee as standard on white roofline. White cladding, coloured products and the Woodgrain range also come with a 10year guarantee as standard.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON

IN GOOD CARE

Dakea’s WeCare Sustainability Strategy is aiming for carbon neutral status by 2030

Amongst the changes will be a switch to zero plastic packaging which will save an estimated 9 tonnes of plastic annually. There will also be a number of new or improved features designed to make life easier for roof window installers. The window box corner labels have been upgraded with a QR code that links directly to installation instructions thereby saving installers time.

What’s more, the window claddings will now be packed in the window box (rather than in a separate accessory box) to help avoid any confusion and loss of parts. And there’s now a new and robust carrying strap for bigger windows to facilitate movement of the windows round a site and to help avoid carrying injuries.

In addition to these changes, the cardboard box packaging has been upgraded and the plastic components within the box have been replaced with paper-based packaging materials. The screw bag and packing straps are also being replaced with FSC paper alternatives. The new packaging will also be more robust, and the box branding has been improved with less ink and colour on the box but clearer information.

A science backed strategy

The WeCare Sustainability Strategy is backed by the Science Based Target Initiative (SBTi), a coalition of expert organisations that help private companies to set science backed climate goals. Dakea started executing the strategy last year in three key areas, namely climate action, sustainable products and responsible business.

One of the aims behind the move to zero waste packaging is to help reduce on site waste for housebuilders and window installers and make waste

“Along with our energy efficient windows, including our triple-glazed Dakea Ultima Energy roof window, it’s all part of our drive to help installers and homeowners to create a more sustainable and energy efficient future”

management in the construction industry easier. The new packaging not only has much less plastic but can also be recycled. It can be flat packed for recycling and will also help reduce the costs of waste management.

Gradual roll out

Since the beginning of the year all new Dakea roof windows have been produced with the new boxes. The new packaging will appear in the UK market throughout 2023, depending on stock movement. Along with our energy efficient windows, like our triple-glazed Dakea Ultima Energy roof window, which has an excellent Uw parameter of 0.99 W/m2K, it’s all part of our drive to help installers and home owners to create a more sustainable and energy efficient future.

The

ENERGY BOOST

Boost R Hybrid Roof comes into its own as energy prices soar

Boost R Hybrid Roof, part of the Actis Hybrid range is proving extremely popular with specifiers and builders looking for an easy to use and thermally extremely effective way of eliminating condensation and preventing moisture entering the building.

The UKCA & CE marked product, aimed at the new build and refurb market and used on the cold side of roofs, is an evolution of Actis’ popular Boost R Hybrid. The two Boost R Hybrid products also have the highest thermal resistance of any insulating breather membrane on the market and are extremely cost competitive.

The roof variant contains four special features developed following customer feedback, which set it apart from its sister

product, with the two changes making the most difference to the user experience being the addition of a lap and the inclusion of built in adhesive tape.

Boost R Hybrid Roof is easily distinguished from its sister product by its

WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ048

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON BOOST R HYBRID ROOF VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ049

A SERIES OF BITE SIZED VIDEO TUTORIALS LOOK IN DETAIL AT HOW TO INSTALL THE PRODUCT. TO ACCESS THESE VISIT:

thermal efficiency of Actis Boost R Hybrid Roof insulating breather membrane is coming into its own as energy prices soar.

LVT

An antimicrobial added to Amtico’s LVT collections will protect against bacteria and reduce the presence of viruses. The manufacturer’s Signature, Spacia, 36+, Form and Marine collections feature the embedded antimicrobials, which have been independently verified (ISO 21702) against SARSCoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.

ROOF SPACE VENTILATION

Better insulation means increased risk of condensation and, therefore, a need to address roof ventilation. That’s the message from who is promoting its Thin-Line Tile Vent as a solution. The manufacturer’s Guide to Roofing Ventilation provides and extensive overview of key specification and installation guidance. To download the guide use the rdr.link below:

WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ052

THERMOBLOCK

A housebuilder undertaking high specification developments in Greater Manchester is targeting improved energy performance and higher build quality with Marmox

Thermoblocks. The blocks are available in widths of 100, 140 and 215mm and feature a unique design where two rows of high strength epoxy concrete mini-columns are encapsulated

ROOFING UNDERLAY

Products and technical guidance are amongst the support that Glidevale Protect is providing a number of colleges. The donations include the Viking Air air & vapour permeable roofing membrane, its VP400 Plus and VP300 LR roofing underlays, and Protect Fulmetal UniRoll ventilated dry ridge and hip system, as well as CPD Training.

ROOF BATTENS

When it comes to roofing battens make sure you understand what you’re buying, urges Marley. The company’s JB Red product has been pre- or factory graded to BS 5534 and are the only UK factory-graded batten available to the roofing industry with BBA certification. Moreover, the timber is sourced from its extensive network of Scandinavian sawmills.

INTEGRATED SOLAR

Providing an integrated solar energy source, Wienerberger UK and Ireland’s Sandtoft in-roof Solar is a brand-new roof tile which is applied directly to the roof battens, incorporating an interlocking design to speed up the installation process. The single-lapped panels are also compatible with all clay and concrete tiles.

Save time, make money all year with the reliable, easy to use and clean, pneumatically powered, vibration free Pnu-Point pointing tool.

POCKET ROCKETS

Easy to drive, cheap to run and comfortable, the best small vans are perfect for tradespeople who want a compact yet capable commercial vehicle.

Small enough for city life and large enough for long journeys, the best small vans are well-equipped as standard and capable of carrying lots of tools, equipment and materials.They are also equipped with frugal engines, which should help protect your profit margins when it comes to fuel costs.

road tests, we’ve shortlisted the best small commercial vehicles you can buy in 2023.

equipped and extremely practical. The Transit Connect is available with short and long wheelbase options, with load volumes peaking at 3.6 cubic metres. It also has a payload capacity of up to 982kg, which makes the Transit Connect one of the most versatile vans in its class.

WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ057

sight on building sites up and down the country. The latest model is the best yet, with load capacities ranging from 3.1 to 3.7 cubic metres. Most buyers choose the efficient and refined 2.0 TDI diesel Caddy, but the 1.5 TSI petrol shouldn’t be discounted if you need a small van for short journeys. The Caddy’s interior is upmarket and comfortable, while its maximum payload capacity of 700kg should accommodate most trades.

WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ059

Mercedes-Benz Citan

If you want a comfortable and classy small van then the Mercedes-Benz Citan should be at the top of your vehicle shopping list. It has one of the best interiors of any small van, with comfortable seats and a quiet cabin. The Citan is available with petrol, diesel or electric power and the smallest version has a 2.9 cubic metre load space and a maximum payload of 782kg.

WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ056

Ford Transit Connect

A perennial favourite with tradespeople, the Ford Transit Connect is one of the UK’s best-selling vans. And with good reason: it’s great to drive, generously

Vauxhall Combo

The latest Vauxhall Combo diesel has a one-tonne payload, which makes it a heavy hitter in the compact van class. You get the choice of two or three front seats and all versions of the Combo will carry two Euro pallets, while the 1.2-metre load width between the rear wheel arches provides enough space for a forklift to load the van without causing damage to the load space.

WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ058

Volkswagen Caddy Cargo

The Volkswagen Caddy is a common

Toyota Proace City

The Toyota Proace City is the only small van in the UK to be sold with a warranty of up to 10 years/100,000 miles.

Mechanically, the Proace City is based on the same platform as the Vauxhall Combo, which means you get a maximum payload of one tonne. The Proace’s 1.5litre diesel engine is available with 100PS or 130PS power outputs, while advertised fuel economy peaks at 49mpg.

WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ060

FOR MORE VAN BUYING ADVICE, VISIT: WWW.HONESTJOHN.CO.UK/VANS OR TYPE “HONEST JOHN VANS” INTO YOUR ONLINE SEARCH ENGINE, OR VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ061

van? Dan Powell, editor of Honest John Vans, names his top five small commercial vehicles of 2023.

Daniel Powell of Honest John Vans

A WORKING

Ready to swap your old partner in for a shiny new model? That’s the iconic Peugeot van we are referring to, of course – before you get any other ideas – because its recently launched second generation e version is already starting to turn some eco heads. Not that it is going to have it all its own way, of course. Such is the convoluted make-up of the LCV market these days – with even rivalry amongst its own siblings (namely the Citroen e-Berlingo and Vauxhall Combo Electric) – we’re in for some interesting marketing and sales pitches in the run up to 2030. Nor is that taking into account the plethora of other competing similar sized electric vans which are about to come into the mainstream market.

Remarkably, it’s been more than twelve years since we were properly introduced to the first viable electric van –the Kangoo ZE from Renault and, naively perhaps, we expected ranges to rise and prices to fall pretty dramatically over the coming decade. That clearly hasn’t happened in quite the way we – and many small business van users – had

anticipated, but are we getting closer to the point where, to continue our theme, it really can be a marriage made in heaven?

With a projected range of 171 miles on its fully charged 50kWh battery pack, Peugeot will hope that at least one of those potential relationship brakers has been addressed, especially since their research shows that 80% of van users cover less than 124 miles a day. That certainly supports our long-held view that, for many tradespeople, who work locally and make perhaps a couple of trips to the merchants each week, for the majority of the time, the van is actually parked up outside the customer’s house.

One of the big issues with going electric, of course, is what that means to payloads compared with conventional vehicles and how expected ranges are duly impacted. At a generous 800kg, and identical load area to its petrol and diesel Partner models, the e version is clearly moving in the right direction, although the diesel alternatives can comfortably add 200kg to that figure.

Cold spot

One thing they can’t control, of course, is the weather and winter cold is clearly no friend of the battery packs. Our test coincided with a short but intense Arctic blast and, with the heater on full bast for even a relatively short period, the range was noticeably compromised. Even parked up overnight a significant drop in temperature will knock a few miles off. And then, of course, there is the electric

vehicle’s real nemesis – motorways. For the purposes of the test drive on a full charge we restricted it to just forty miles up the M1 simply because of the anxiety associated with getting back to our starting point.

The problem is largely due to that ingrained mindset of making constant comparisons with conventional powered vans. If you can look beyond that and see e power for exactly what it is, namely an eco-friendly, business statement that delivers urban dwelling, silent and highly reliable performance, then the e Partner is right up there in terms of current benchmarks for electric vans.

To that end, it strikes us as somewhat strange that the company don’t make its environmental credentials much more easily identifiable to the casual observer, although they are not alone in this lack of up-front branding. If you are doing your bit for the planet then you surely want your potential customer base to know all about it!

As you would expect, every e partner offers fast charging as standard with 0 to 80% achievable within 30 minutes, whilst a standard domestic wall box will yield a full charge in seven and half hours. Three driving modes can be engaged depending on the conditions and an attractive looking instrument cluster gives a clear and precise view of the vehicle’s status at all times.

Quick off the mark, it will do 0 to 62mph in just under twelve seconds and top speed is electronically limited to 81mph. Those who do opt for an electric powertrain will find the same choice as those vans available with conventional engines with different spec levels, short or long wheelbase and either a panel van or five seat crew cab. The well-honed interior is pretty much identical to the regular Partner although extra safety features such as safety bags, autonomous braking and lane keeping assist come at a premium which on top of a starting price from £32,385 suggests that for now at least, there is still plenty of courting to be done before it becomes a fully-fledged Partner for life!

“The problem is largely due to that ingrained mindset of making constant comparisons with conventional powered vans. If you can look beyond that and see e power for exactly what it is, namely an ecofriendly, business statement that delivers urban dwelling, silent and highly reliable performance, then the e

TURNING PRO

In pick up terms, of course, it’s one of the most famous van brands in the world, with a mind boggling 18 million vehicles sold since 1968, but Toyota has traditionally found the small/medium sized LCV market a much tougher nut to crack since it came to these shores more than 45 years ago. So, as they say, if you can’t beat them then why not join them? Which is exactly what the Japanese manufacturing giant did in 2016 when it signed a deal with the European motor manufacturing Behemoth, the PSA group. The result is a stable comprising four work horses which share very similar pedigrees, namely the Peugeot Expert, Citroen Dispatch, Vauxhall Vivaro and the Toyota Proace.

Whilst all of these vans are born equal, some are, however, clearly more equal than others and Toyota has continued to pursue its own agenda when it comes to warranties and engines. There’s the potential for a market-leading ten-year warranty with every new Proace, which comprises an initial three-year cover, followed up by up to seven years of service activated warranty.

Basically, this means that for the first three years of the van’s life it can be serviced at a place of the owner’s choice. Thereafter, it will need to be serviced at an authorised Toyota workshop, in line

with its service schedule. A five years free roadside assistance package is also offered and a commitment to provide a service appointment within seven days of a customer request, with labour costs reduced by 50 per cent if that is not met. For a business owner, that provides both peace of mind and attractive resale advantages.

The Proace is available in a choice of two body sizes – medium and long –although the useful Smart Cargo system combines an opening front bulkhead with

a lifting passenger seat base mechanism, increasing the maximum load length to 3.67m and a total load volume to 5.8m2. It also creates extra space in the threeseater cabin if needed. With each vehicle length, left and right sliding doors are provided, along with double hinged rear doors, which open to 180 degrees to take Euro pallets comfortably. Maximum payload is up to 1,400kg and the braked trailer towing capacity is up to 2,500kg.

For the UK market Toyota has opted for a selection of 1.5litre diesel engines

(badged 1.5D 100 and 200) and 2.0litre units badged (2.0D 140 and 180). All feature six speed manual transmission, apart from the 180, which uses an eightspeed automatic transmission which, on our test run, was found to be one of the smoothest in transitions we have encountered so far. The ride in and around town and on the highway was top notch and there’s plenty of poke, with 0-62 in just nine seconds, although the compromise is a reduction in actual payload to around 1,000kg. You might get around 40 miles to the gallon driven sedately, although 36 is a

a long journey if your legs are a little on the long side. When not in use, a centre console can be pulled down to provide a handy base for a laptop and associated mobile office paraphernalia.

The actual driving position has also attracted some criticism in certain quarters with the steering wheel offset a little to the left and the pedals to the right. We didn’t find it too much of an inconvenience although perhaps we just have the perfect shaped body for testing this particular vehicle – namely long arms and short legs! The gear change dial on our top-of-the range automatic also takes a little getting used to partly because it is so discreet but is clearly another nod to more car-like designs now employed on the most modern LCVs.

There are three equipment grades, so you pay your money and take your choice of a variety of more sophisticated cabin treatments and safety aids, although the basic Active level is more than adequate for most short haul tradespeople.

With those impressive warranty offers, and a traditionally strong dealer network service, Toyota will be hoping that a real breakthrough in this sector of the market is finally on the cards with its latest range of Proace vans.

On the road prices, including VAT, start from around £24,000 rising to as much as £40,000 for the top of the range models.

FLEET FIRST

for

Mobility Solutions

A volatile economic environment weighs heavily on the construction sector. Building firms are feeling the squeeze amidst high inflation and material costs, soaring interest rates, skilled labour shortages and fragile consumer confidence.

Successfully navigating these challenges while maintaining business productivity, growth and service delivery is no easy task. The construction industry has been notoriously slow to embrace the

A workflow management boost

Managing a commercial vehicle fleet and mobile workforce can be a challenging affair – for building firms large and small –without proper visibility over their activities. Indeed, access to business insights can hold the key to increased flexibility, keeping a lid on costs and a tight rein on project schedules.

Telematics solutions – and notably those that offer opportunities for seamless integration with wider tech applications – offer the route to real-time tracking of assets, streamlined processes, greater levels of automation, reduced administration and less reliance on paper trials.

The Webfleet management platform, for example, will show precisely when, where and how a construction fleet is being utilised and how much time is being spent behind the wheel. It will instantly alert you if and when a construction vehicle or asset leaves a pre-defined area and in a boost to security, if an asset or vehicle is taken from site without permission, it can be located.

Daily workflow can be sent to driver terminals, with workers automatically routed directly to their site destinations. At the

same time, automatic alerts advising customers of their arrival times can be sent via text or email. Proof of delivery of equipment or materials can be submitted via signature capture functionality on the connected driver device, an in-built camera or NFC chip.

Accurate ETA information, based on traffic and historic journey time data, can also be combined with planning software –a significant benefit for the time-sensitive transportation of materials. In-vehicle sensors, meanwhile, mean managers can be informed when materials, such as concrete, are being offloaded.

The value of end-to-end connected data has been highlighted by industry operators such Wright Mix, a concrete supplier that saw a productivity uplift of more than 25 per cent after switching to a paperless system for ordering and job scheduling, underpinned by Webfleet

Cost control in the spotlight

As fuel prices hit record highs last year, even the most financially robust of construction-sector firms found themselves hit hard at the pumps. Recent falls have given fleets cause for cheer over recent weeks, but the outlook remains uncertain.

The Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) has warned of a 23 per cent hike in

Beverley Wise, Webfleet Regional Director

Bridgestone

explains how you can form your own digital shield against industry woes

fuel duty from March, which would see petrol and diesel prices rise by around 12p a litre.

With prudent management, however, it is possible to minimise the fuel cost burden. And a reduction in fuel bills represents direct bottom-line savings –savings that may otherwise have to be recovered through an increase in prices, or through budget cuts elsewhere.

Solutions such as Webfleet offer one of the most logical options for relieving cost pressures at the pump. Better navigation alone can lead to a significant reduction in fuel consumption and thousands of pounds a year can be saved by eliminating private or unauthorised mileage, through enhanced routing and the better allocation of vehicles to jobs.

Even greater financial rewards can be enjoyed by improving the performance and mpg of drivers. Webfleet’s OptiDrive 360, for example, enables firms to

and harsh braking – and target training where it is most needed. Engine idling is a particularly costly problem for the construction sector.

Unnecessary idling can prove particularly costly for building firms and will often occur on-site when vehicles are left waiting for extended periods – when machinery is not being powered, for example, during the loading and unloading of materials, and during

costs can be better controlled with the automatic scheduling and management of maintenance tasks. Notifications can be set up based on odometer information, operating time or time since the last maintenance, and you can be alerted should mechanical issues arise. Furthermore, connected driver terminals can be used to conduct vehicle checks at the start of each day or week – the results being automatically updated in the back office.

Building an insights-driven future Building firms may still be playing catch up when it comes to digitisation, but as cost pressures bite, now may be the time to deploy the tools that not only help deliver competitive advantage, but that also serve as a safety net to their commercial futures. FOR

HAPPY CAMPERS!

Got a big business idea for 2023? The sage advice, of course, is always to sleep on it… which is quite literally what long term friends and now business partners, Richard Hill and Mike Gerlin

weekend camper van. Intrigued, Professional Builder recently caught up with the pair at their well-appointed workshop in rural Sussex where they took us through the backstory of the

had got to this exciting point in their careers. “My background is in landscaping and for years I was involved in putting together displays at the Chelsea Flower Show amongst others. I had encountered Mike on a number of occasions and knew that with his excellent engineering skills we shared a lot of common ground on product development.

Great outdoors

“Just before Covid we decided to formalise a working partnership and acquired this workshop to work on some ideas which we had been mulling over for some time. With his Scandinavian background Mike has a real passion for working with wood and, of course, the great outdoors, which people are craving for like never before, post Covid. As a result, the demand for camper vans currently well exceeds current supply and vehicles for sale and hire are attracting unprecedented prices. All of this led us in the direction of thinking that it should be possible to help anyone who owns a small or medium sized to enjoy weekend breaks and leisure pursuits at a fraction of the cost and with minimal disruption to

Once there was camping –and then glamping – but Professional Builder has discovered something else which might just become the latest must do activity in 2023 – “Vanping!”

their daily work routines.”

Initially a brainchild of Mike’s, he relates the principle behind Bobeka: “Of course, conversion kits have been around for years, but they tend to be permanent fixtures with no flexibility of use and a myriad of intricate components to assemble. We needed to simplify the whole process and the key to doing that is our own patented modular fixing system, with nothing fixed into the vehicle structure.

“The whole concept is built around a precision engineered and sturdy birchfaced plywood storage bench and table, which is easily transformed into a rigid platform which then provides a double sized bed. We have tried to think of

everything a casual camper needs for a short stay away and provide an assortment of built in, secure storage capacity for things like portable cookers, water bottles and provisions. It is not luxury camping by any means but is perfectly adequate for short stays, either for leisure or perhaps a tradesperson working away from home for a couple of days and doesn’t want his profits eaten into by expensive hotel bills.”

Recalls Mike: “Working on a number of protoypes, and experimenting with different materials – plus a significant

for every popular make of small/medium van, although we can pretty much adapt the design to suit even a non-standard shaped vehicle if required.”

He adds: “With no actual moving parts it’s the sort of product which should provide excellent service for many years and in most cases is transferable to a new vehicle when the time comes. Everything simply slots into place and, of course, there are very few components to go missing! When it’s not in use the kit can simply be stored at the back of the garage, or the garden shed. In fact, it could actually be used in the summer as a useful piece of garden furniture.”

Easy set-up

After the trials and tribulations of Covid, and with spring in the air, Richard and Mike are confident that 2023 will be a breakthrough year for Bobeka, whether its people investing around £1,000 to buy one outright or take advantage of a hire option for a very reasonable £150.

“Everything you need is delivered on one pallet and, even as a novice, we are confident it can all be put together in around 15 minutes. It certainly won’t cause the sort of family rows commonplace with some flat packs we could mention”, jokes Mike.

As Richard confirms: “Ultimately, it’s all about squeezing some extra life out of your vehicle which, let’s face it, is costing a small fortune to keep on the road these days what with skyrocketing fuel and insurance premiums.

“The fact is thousands of people would like to be able to enjoy the full camper van experience but are currently being priced out of that opportunity because of soaring demand and the high entry points of purchase and hire. With the Bobeka system we hope to be able to provide a taste of that experience at a fraction of the cost to anyone who owns a van and yearns on occasion to escape the stresses and strains of running their own small business.”

Having come this far, they clearly won’t take anything other than total success laying down!

vehicles & plant

GREAT & SMALL

The father and son team at Charlbrook Construction are thoroughly converted to Takeuchi. Professional Builder’s Lee Jones visited them on site to find out more about their recent investment in the manufacturer’s TB325R mini excavator.

“Like a lot of people in the building industry rather than allowing our skillset to make other people money, we decided to take on the jobs ourselves and the result is Charlbrook Construction,” declares Tom TreadwellHands. “That was in 2019 and since then we’ve been undertaking high end extensions, new builds and refurbs for commercial and residential clients and haven’t looked back.” Tom and his father David Hands are both carpenters by trade but can turn their hands to any task and – having purchased or hired a huge range of plant in their time – are in a good position to judge the relative merits of machines.

“It’s a similar principle when it comes to excavators as well,” Tom continues. “We

want to make sure that our expenditure is for the benefit of our business and not just going to a hire firm.” Indeed, with business on the up it was time for Charlbrook Construction to invest in a mini excavator, and with a diverse range of jobs on the books, they were in the market for a multitasker. “Rental is definitely something we’re looking to move away from,” reveals Tom. “If you have any equipment on hire you’re always conscious of the times it might be sitting around doing nothing –and still costing you money. What we wanted was the flexibility of owning and being able to put it to use exactly when and where we want to.”

Tom was equally well-versed in the qualities of Takeuchi, with the brand recommended to him by many of his peers

(LtoR) Tom Treadwell-Hands and David Hands of Charlbrook Construction.

in the building game. When he heard that the short tail swing TB325R was available he immediately got in touch with local dealer, Bow Plant Sales, who represent the Japanese manufacturer’s range from Herefordshire through to Coventry, Birmingham and the West Midlands.

“I can’t sing the praises of Bow Plant Sales enough. Given all the supply issues the industry’s been experiencing, they were able to deliver us what we wanted within about six weeks of first contact. We are looking to invest in a 1-tonne Takeuchi in the future and we’ll be returning to the same dealer.”

Transport-friendly

From their Worcestershire base, the fourman team, plus a trusted group of subbies, undertake work predominately in their home county, and neighbouring Warwickshire, but have equally reached as far afield as Suffok. With a digger that weighs in at 2,440kg – and can comfortably be towed on a 3.5 tonne rated pick up or van, together with attachments and materials – their trusty Takeuchi can also travel with them, but it’s also a nimble mover on site.

“The short tail swing is ideal for use on tight residential housebuilding jobs and when you’re digging out the footings for extensions on an existing property. At the same time, there’s absolutely no discernible reduction in breakout force. We’ve won a contract for some

commercial jobs with the local council and it had the muscle to dig off over 120 tonnes of tarmac from a school playground renovation. We’ve also undertaken drainage and landscaping works, so there’s an impressive level of versatility. One other thing I really like about it is the longer than average track frame which enhances the level of stability. It feels really planted – even on uneven or soft ground.”

With a land clearance rake, ripping

Tefra Quick Hitch with which the machine was supplied – that flexibility in use will be extended still further.

It’s that combination of power, manoeuvrability, transportability, and stability that has won the TB325R in particular – and the Takeuchi range in general – many plaudits amongst experienced plant operators. First launched in 2021, Charlbrook Construction’s Takeuchi is fitted with a cab – whilst a canopy version is available. The latter weighs in at a reduced 2,310kg, meaning even more kit can accompany the excavator on a trailer.

There’s 16.5kW of power, 19.3kN of digging force and breakout of 11.3kN along with a digging depth to 2,540mm and ground reach to 4,350mm. A compact machine footprint of 1,500x1,890mm is complemented by a short tail radius of 825mm and overhang of just 70mm when 90 degrees to the track.

Bright idea

Tom and Dave are fans of the TB325R’s joystick proportional control, and lighting is a big issue for them. “Some of our projects are in remote locations and we’ve been running the Takeuchi in the dark,” continues Tom. “The LED work lights on the cab and the boom provide a great level of visibility,”

“Our TB325R has been with us since September of last year, and it’s a brilliant machine,” concludes Tom. “We’ve driven just about everything in our time and the Takeuchi is the best we’ve had. It’s always going to be a big investment for business of our size but that’s easily outweighed by the savings in hire costs, which can really start to mount up, and having the option to use it whenever you want.

“We started an extension locally, for instance, and it will dig out the footings and oversite, then move in the stone – so there’s no labourers ferrying back and forth with a wheelbarrow. That saves on time, which means we can take on more work, and labour, which reduces costs. We want to expand and having the right equipment in place is integral to those plans.”

& plant

TO CATCH A THIEF

✔ Park Responsibly

Before we get on to enhanced van security measures, the simple idea of parking your van in a carefully chosen area can deter opportunistic thieves. Always choose a well-lit area and ideally one in close proximity to other cars and pedestrians. A CCTV secure car park is best, while, when at home, parking in front of home security devices can be a sound choice. These devices include alarms linked between house and vehicle and security cameras.

How you park your car can also decrease your van’s vulnerability. Reversing onto your driveway can protect your van’s rear doors while parking closer to walls or other obstructions can decrease the likelihood of thieves gaining unwarranted access. When leaving your vehicle, double-check your van is locked by pulling the handle instead of absentmindedly listening for beeps or clicks.

✔ Consider Your Van’s Design

Whilst your company branding can be an effective marketing tool, over-explicit van designs can reveal the contents of your vehicle and make it more of a target for thieves. This can even leave your van the subject of ‘casing’ – where thieves premeditatively scout out your van – as opposed to a spontaneous crime. Eschew

detailed designs in favour of more discreet or blank branding to keep your contents safe.

✔ Improve Your Van Lock

Van owners should look to empty their vans of expensive materials wherever possible to decrease the chance of theft. However, whilst keeping supplies or tools in your van for lengthy durations is illadvised, this is not always practical.

When you are forced into leaving your van contents unattended for long periods of time, an upgraded lock is a must especially with easily available lockpicking tools able to break into most manufactured-fitted locks.

Installing a slam lock is a helpful tool as it lends an extra layer of security, while also providing a visible, physical deterrent.

Deadlocks are another option and are considerably stronger than standard fitted locks as they don’t pose any spring mechanism weaknesses. This makes them a reliable choice for users leaving their van’s parked overnight or in potentially insecure areas. Steel-clad or heavy-duty options work best here.

Physical Theft Prevention

While protecting your van’s contents is top priority, it is also wise to secure the whole van. Old school physical deterrents such as steeringwheel, pedal and gear-lever locks are good choices here and can really discourage criminals from breaking in. Getting into the habit of putting these in place at the end of a day’s work, or when leaving your van unattended, can be a worthwhile routine while wheel clamps can also be used in extreme

circumstances. After all, you don’t want your shiny new van being stolen when van leasing.

✔ Sound The Alarm

Another line of defence is to fit your van with an alarm which triggers upon possible break-in. It is commonly thought that all vans come factory-fitted with such devices, but this may not be true of older or cheaper models. A high-quality aftermarket alarm solution is a good buy and more hi-tec models can even be linked up to your home or mobile device. While alarms only alert you to break in, immobilisers can shut down the van and prevent it from starting completely.

So, there we have it, ensure peace of mind with our comprehensive safety guide and stay at the vanguard of your business with your van in top condition.

Van leasing company, Van Ninja runs through a handy list of security tips – from deterring potential thieves to making your van impregnable.

ELECTRIC VAN

Available with wheelbases ranging from 3,000mm to 4,750mm, and gross vehicle weights up to 7.2t, the IVECO eDAILY features what the manufacturer describes as class-leading payload potential. As the only eLCV currently on sale to provide a 15kW ePTO, applications are wide-ranging, including tippers and ariel platforms.

COMPACT VAN

Standard safety features on the Mercedes-Benz Citan panel van include Active Brake ASSIST with pedestrian recognition technology; ATTENTION ASSIST, which detects drowsiness in the driver and encourages them to take breaks when tired; and Hill-Start ASSIST to prevent rolling back. There’s also a rear parking aid with reversing camera.

WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ070

BOBCAT

The world’s first allelectric compact track loader – the T7X – has arrived courtesy of Bobcat. With an operating capacity of 1,374 kg, and zero CO2 emissions, the 60.5-kWh lithium-ion battery pack, can deliver four hours of continuous use. In addition, the hydraulics have been completely replaced with an electrical drive system.

GET MORE DETAILS AT:

AVANT TECNO

Two new loader models, Avant e5-27 and Avante5-13, will be equipped with Avant Tecno’s OptiTemp batteries (27kWh and 13kWh) featuring what is described as a unique thermal management system. The technology keeps the temperature optimised and gives you the same capacity in hot and freezing weather.

GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ074

vehicles & plant

product round-up

SCRAPPAGE PROGRAMME

A scrappage programme offers the opportunity to switch to electric and save up to £14,000 on a new zeroemission MAXUS vehicle with the added bonus of a free home or workplace charger. Vehicles within the manufacturer’s electric portfolio include the e DELIVER 9 and e DELIVER 3 LCV vans as well as the T90EV pickup.

GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ069

SHORT TAIL EXCAVATOR

A new short tail that weighs in at 3.8-tonnes offers maximum accessibility where space is limited has been introduced by Takeuchi. The TB335R is Stage V ready with 18.2kW and Eco operating mode. The larger than average track frame and optimised counterweight provides

WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ071

ELECTRIC MINI-EXCAVATOR

The low noise, zero-emission design of the Doosan DX20ZE two tonne electric mini-excavator is combined with the features and high performance of the equivalent diesel-powered unit. With a width of just 950mm, it can pass through narrow passages and is ideal for operating indoors or in areas where low noise and/or night-time work is necessary.

3-TONNE DUMPER

An all-new, all electric 3tonne dumper has been introduced by Thwaites

Four maintenance free, long-life, lithium-ion (drycell) batteries, operating at 48V, are fitted. Each battery is rated at 5.75kWh, with two highly efficient electric motors (one for traction, one for the hydraulic services) giving the operator the control and manoeuvrability expected from a Thwaites dumper.

GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ075

When it comes to safety footwear, it isn’t a case of one size fits all. The type of work boot required to give you the right protection will vary greatly depending on the application, environment and hazards involved in your role.

Working outdoors? keep feet dry

Wet feet aren’t just uncomfortable – they can lead to several foot problems including athlete’s foot, blistering, infections and even tissue damage. So, if you work in a role that sees your feet frequently exposed to the rain, a waterproof boot is a must.

But it’s no good having a lining that keeps water out but leaves your foot so sweaty it ends up becoming as wet as it would have been had the rain got in. What’s needed is a boot with both waterproofness and breathability, like V12’s Lynx range. Lynx features high-performing protection and innovative designs to ensure you’re working in comfort.

Waterproof or water-resistant?

It’s just as important to know when waterproofing is a step too far. It all depends on your level of water exposure. A water-resistant boot will stop water from getting in to a certain degree, although long exposure will mean water will get in eventually. So, if your work only takes you outside every so often, we recommend a water-resistant rather than waterproof boot, because it will remove the extra lining that comes with waterproofing. And while a good waterproof lining should be breathable, if you have it inside your boot but don’t need it, you’ll be adding an unnecessary layer around your foot, which might make it hotter or sweatier especially for those working mostly indoors.

Don’t get cold feet...

It’s not just water that can be a problem when working on site; the cold can also seriously affect safety. Numb feet cause reduced sensitivity and stability, and a drop in body temperature can be a big distraction from the task at hand. And if

BOOT FITS IF THE

you work in an environment featuring uneven surfaces or heavy machinery, this can be a serious issue. To keep feet warm if you’re working outdoors in low temperatures, investing in a safety boot with a thermal lining can make a huge difference. Boots that feature a temperature-regulating lining, such as Thinsulate or a cold-resistant fleece lining, can ensure that safety and the job remain the key focus.

Grip, not slip

Slips still account for a third of all UK accidents at work, but on construction sites, slippery and uneven surfaces are very commonplace, so the potential for slipping is arguably greater.

The tread on your footwear is one of the biggest decisions that you should

consider when buying boots. An oftenoverlooked feature, you need a tread that is designed specifically for the type of terrain you’re working on. It’s exactly this reason that V12 developed innovative sole units – the STS and IGS.

The STS sole was designed to provide traction and create a non-clogging sole to keep the wearer stable and balanced on unsteady ground like mud or sand. Several V12 styles feature the STS sole unit, making them perfect for outdoor roles such as bricklaying or landscaping, where terrain tends to be more unpredictable.

Meanwhile, the IGS sole was developed with a hexagonal grip pattern to cut through water and channel it away, increasing stability on more indoor and man-made surfaces that tend to become

V12 explains how you can get the right footwear solution for your trade

slippery such as scaffold boarding, steel grating and ceramic or concrete floors.

Working at height

According to the HSE, ladders account for 40% of all falls from height in the UK each year. And in ladder-fall prevention, the importance that footwear has is key. If your boot has specific ladder grips built into its tread, safety and stability is significantly increased.

V12’s IGS and STS soles both feature ladder grips to keep you firm-footed when climbing or descending ladders. And because ladder-work is such a necessity in so many job roles like roofing, plastering and scaffolding, we strongly advise having a boot with a sole that offers you the best chance of staying safe, stable – and out of ladder-fall statistics.

Lightweight comfort

In a recent survey of 500 safety boot

average tradesperson walks 12,000. And if you’re in an industry where you can end up doing this number of steps, you’ll need your work boot to be comfortable. And this is where boots with a composite toecap and midsole can really help. Because composite is a much lighter material than steel, this reduction in weight goes a long way to reducing tired and heavy legs and also helping to reduce the chance of longer-term issues.

So, for those in roles that feature a lot of standing or walking, opting for boots that are light in weight can make a massive difference to both productivity and health.

You can’t always control the hazards in your workplace, but one thing you can control is what you put on your feet. V12 is a family-run business so we fully understand the importance of staying safe at work so that you can return home to loved ones at the end of the working day!

“You can’t always control the hazards in your workplace but one thing you can control is what you put on your feet. V12 is a family-run business, so we fully understand the importance of staying safe at work so that you can return home to loved ones.”

A WHOLE NEW LEVEL

ToughBuilt is a manufacturer that takes product innovation seriously. So much so, in fact, that product research and development isn’t just a company policy or commitment; it’s more a businesswide state-of-mind.

Innovation and invention are at the heart of the US manufacturer’s entire approach and it is proud to be a driving force in the ongoing evolution of hand tools and jobsite equipment for the professional user.

“Progress is evident in many different aspects of our personal and working lives,” comments Vahe Der Kureghian, Managing Director of ToughBuilt (Europe). “For example, if you look at the cars of today, they are very different from the cars of ten or twenty years ago. As a business, we’re focused on ensuring similar advances and progress across hand tools and jobsite equipment.”

He continues: “Just because the fundamental design of products in this category may be tried and tested over decades or even centuries doesn’t mean that every avenue for improvement has been explored. A willingness to accept the status quo is perhaps the biggest obstacle to innovation and that’s why every new product journey starts with several important questions.

“Questions like how can we make the existing design of this product even better? Where are the opportunities to increase output and reduce inefficiency? And what learning can we apply from the many hours of research we spend talking to and observing professional tradespeople at work?”

ToughBuilt has recently launched a new range of spirit levels that fully embody the company’s design philosophy. They benefit from a rich array of features that enhance both their ease of use and overall effectiveness.

Find your level

The specific products available include a new Magnetic Lit Box Level. Available in three sizes – 23cm, 60cm and 120cm –this level has LED lit vials for easier reading as well as a precision milled base for optimum accuracy and shock absorbing endcaps for maximum durability.

The new range also includes a convenient and portable, pocket-sized 360° Pocket Level. This product benefits from a robust, heavy-duty die cast construction and a highly accurate rotating vile which can be used to set and identify any angle.

In addition, the manufacturer has

launched a new 23cm Magnetic Billet Torpedo Level. Featuring an aluminium frame, this level is both exceptionally durable and light in weight. It has four vials which are precision set to 0°, 30°, 45° and 90° angles and a top groove working edge which enables accurate alignment on pipe or conduit.

All five new levels employ rare earth magnets ensuring superior holding strength. They are also backed by a twoyear guarantee as standard, and this can be extended to 25 years if users register their purchase.

“As a business, ToughBuilt doesn’t build ordinary and our new levels remain true to that focus” adds Vahe. “Reflecting this, our new levels join a full eco-system of similar, productivity-enhancing, hand tools and jobsite support equipment. This includes our Sawhorses, our popular QuickSet Workbench and our ClipTech system of interconnectable tool bags, totes, belts and pouches.

“Plus, given our dedication to product research and development, our new levels will be followed by other new ranges and range additions throughout 2023. Trade professionals can rest assured that all these introductions will benefit from the same intelligently designed, carefully considered approach that are a part of ToughBuilt’s DNA.”

ToughBuilt is pioneering a new generation of hand tools and jobsite equipment.

GET

LED WORK LIGHT

TOOLS & EQIPMENT

KNEE PROTECTION

The combination of Kneeguard pads and the Kneeguard PRO positioning system in Snickers Workwear’s trousers offers reliable protection. The kneepad pockets can be adjusted to different heights, and there’s a range of Kneepads to fit different trousers – and to suit certain jobs – including Floorlayer trousers and slim-fit Kneepads for slim-fit trousers.

There’s five lighting modes, an adjustable kickstand, integrated hanging hook and a magnetic base on the Nova Star work light. The manoeuvrable stand and swivel head enables the light to be orientated to exactly where you need it, the fold-flat design is ideal for storage, and the extendable stand elevates the light off the ground to increase its light spread.

SAFETY SHOE

Thanks to material used in the midsole the uvex 1 G2 planet now includes a recycled content of 30%. The manufacturer’s iPUREnrj technology has long been known for its shock-absorption and energy-return features and this has now been supplemented with PU granulate from its own production surplus.

INSPECTION CAMERA

Designed to give eyes in hard-to-reach locations, the C.K Tools Mighty Scope inspection camera measures just three and half inches in length and one inch wide and boast an on-board WiFi hotspot with a 15m range for ultimate convenience. The high-quality camera is operated through a free and intuitive app, and live streams 720p HD video.

GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ084

TELESCOPIC LADDER

A stepladder, extension ladder and stairwell ladder all in one compact, lightweight product, the Werner MultiPurpose Telescopic ladder represents a versatile solution. Certified to the latest EN1314:2020 safety standard, adjustable telescopic sections feature simple to operate hinge locks, allowing for easy conversion between the three modes.

GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ085

Use our digital reader enquiry service for further information online

COOLER & WARMER BOX

With two battery ports for either 40V XGT or 18V LXT batteries, the Makita Cooler & Warmer Box CW002G offers long run times. The 50-litre unit can also be powered via an in-vehicle 12V/24V DC power supply, or via mains power supply with a 240V AC adaptor. There’s 14 inside temperature settings, ranging from –18˚C to 60˚C.

GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ081

WORKWEAR

Work trousers, work jackets, and T-shirts, as well as certified safety shoes and work boots, are all available in the Carhartt workwear range. The company also designs workwear specifically for women. These designs fit and protect the body better and are therefore much safer.

GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ083

HAVS

The HAVSPRO system provides continuous measuring and monitoring of vibration exposure, allowing for a proactive approach to vibration risk management. Latest Health & Safety Executive (HSE) figures revealed a 375% rise in new Hand Arm Vibration cases and 165 new cases of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (up 412%).

GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ086

VERTICAL SLIDERS

A brand new 18,500ft2 dedicated foiling facility has given Quickslide the ability to increase its inhouse foiling capacity by 30%, and to introduce additional colour options, including exclusive dual foils for vertical sliders. These now include combinations of grey woodgrain/heritage white and agate grey/heritage white.

GET

AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ087

AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ088

FASCIA AND GUTTERING

GET

MORE DETAILS AT:

Six new models have been added to the Aqualisa Mian shower collection. With a choice of contemporary square or round styling, plus single outlet, dual outlet and bath shower mixer options, each model features a chrome finish, brass body and metal handles with cool touch surface technology, and a temperature override for added safety. MORE DETAILS

GENERAL BUILDING

POSITIVE INPUT VENTILATION (PIV)

Positive Input Ventilation (PIV) is designed to remove stale, moist air from the home and replace it with filtered, drier air. Suitable for existing properties, Vent-Axia’s PureAir Home offers a whole house ventilation solution and can be installed in the loft, preventing moisture build up, condensation, mould, and improving indoor air quality (IAQ).

GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ091

DECORATIVE MATERIALS

A new addition to the Lathams catalogue has arrived with its Dekodur metal-surfaced laminates. The range of high-pressure laminates (HPLs) feature a real metal surface and phenolic paper backing. Options include Aluminium, as well as a Specialities Collection.

GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ092

FILLER

Ready-to-use Toupret Fine Surface Filler can be used over new surfaces, like gypsum plaster and plasterboard, as well as old painted surfaces, enhancing the appearance of paint or wallpaper finishes. There’s no limit on working time, it’s ready to paint in eight hours – with a depth limit of as little as 1mm – and can be applied over other filler, cement or concrete.

GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ093

ADJUSTABLE DECKING AND PAVING PEDESTALS

The JOUPLAST adjustable decking and paving pedestals were introduced into the UK by Plastic Mouldings Northern in 2022. The products act as bases for decking and paving slabs to ensure they sit evenly across surfaces. The range allows hard landscaping to be quickly and easily installed, whilst maintaining perfect lines and an even finish. The solution is also versatile enough to be used on flat roofs, terraces, balconies, concrete yards and tarmac.

GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ094

IN A FIX

fischer can plug the gap in end user product knowledge with its ever-evolving Professional App, as sales and marketing manager Dan Czerwinski explains.

After the fischer Professional app first launched in 2018, it quickly became apparent that it was filling a crucial gap in our communications to trade users for whom it instantly provides the correct fixing choice for any given job The option to receive information and advice on our fixings anytime and anywhere was an easy addition to everyone’s toolbox.

Four years on, the fischer Professional app is still growing in demand with its many new features. For instance, the improved, simplified layouts and add-on actions makes finding the right fixing –and any other information – faster, easier and more targeted.

For more complex questions or just general fixing information, tradespeople can chat directly with fischer application engineers via the chat function. The quick and easy tile area on the dashboard allows users to access frequently used features with the touch of a finger when launching the app. These features include the fixings adviser, which intuitively suggests the most suitable fixing solution when entering common parameters. The app can also suggest various ways in which users can purchase the product in the way which suits them best.

QBut what does this mean for the user?

The fischer Professional App offers numerous useful tools and features:

QHow do I find the right fixing material?

Users can find the right solution intuitively by querying the information regarding substructure, component dimensions, type of mounting and applicable loads.

QHow can I quickly find all specifications on the fischer range of fasteners?

Thanks to our online product catalogue, all fischer products and their specifications are available at a glance –always at hand and up-to-date. The search filter can be adjusted to your specific needs and by using a barcode scanner.

QWhere can I find fischer products in my area?

No matter whether you are working away from home or on the construction site –find the nearest dealer in an instant!

Direct downloads

Once you have found the correct project for the job you can easily download ETA documents, installation instructions and the DOP/Load tables on your phone or on your PC, making this an invaluable tool for when time is critical.

The App also has a barcode feature which instantly scans and downloads all the relevant information required such as the company’s full online catalogue, a

news/blog section and the latest addition firestop selector/calculator that provides certified product advise to keep your build within regulations.

One of our aims for 2023 is to drive the digitalisation of constructing even more, focusing on the Professional App to showcase a brand-new website design and operating system that went live in 2022. All fischer tools now work from the same user focused platform. The idea being that wherever you look for fischer information and product help you will get the same answer. Look out for more from us in 2023 with further advancement in BIM, online technology and the use of digitally enabled anchors.

For great fischer giveaways turn to page 27

IN THE FOLD

With buyers at the higher end of the market relatively more cushioned against the cost-of-living crisis, it’s hardly surprising that retail demand for aspirational aluminium window and door products currently appears to be holding up better than it is for PVC-U.

For those companies who are well versed in PVC-U however – and are familiar with the easy quoting and buying processes, the fast lead times and the competitive pricing – adding aluminium to their product options can still sometimes feel like too much hassle.

One supplier tackling those concerns head on is AluFold Direct, which has structured its entire operation so that the buying experience for customers closely mirrors what they are used to in PVC-U. It says that it has effectively taken away all the barriers which are still stopping some merchants, developers and installers from using aluminium to give themselves a better chance in the current market conditions.

Russell Yates, AluFold Direct’s

Managing Director and a familiar face in the aluminium industry, having previously been MD of systems company AluK, explained the company’s approach: “Since I joined in 2020, our aim has been to give traditional PVC-U buyers the same level of convenience and efficiency in aluminium that they can already get in PVC-U, ensuring that they can easily supply the two options side-by-side.

“There’s a reassuring familiarity for

use exactly the same cloud-based pricing and ordering software that many companies already use for PVC-U windows and doors. There’s no waiting for your aluminium supplier to price every job for you, no weeks of waiting for your delivery, and no questions about quality or consistency. We have teams of customer service advisors on the phone to help everyone get started and an impressive package of support, including training.”

one of the UK’s largest exclusively aluminium fabricators, with a vast, highly automated factory, reliably and

AluFold Direct is taking the hassle out of aluminium

consistently turning out high volumes of top-quality frames every week on 7- or 14-day lead times (depending on whether they are glazed or unglazed). There are dedicated lines for sliding patios and bi-fold doors and even a lantern roof so that it can offer a one-stop shop option for the aspirational orangery/extension market.

The speed of the operation and the fast lead times means that customers can comfortably place orders with AluFold Direct using measured sizes, rather than off-plan, knowing that they can have their doors delivered direct to a site – and avoiding the risk of costly errors when frames are ordered before the space exists and they end up being the wrong size.

Direct action

The sheer scale of the AluFold Direct factory and the fact that merchants, developers and installers are buying direct from the manufacturer means prices are competitive and there are even a range of price points on different product options so that customers can be confident of winning business in aluminium with strong and sustainable margins. It also means the company has sufficient capacity to take on new customers and help them grow. Key to that is the large stockholding, which buffers its customers against the supply chain challenges which have hit the whole of the window and door sector over recent years, in a way that smaller, local aluminium suppliers can’t match.

Russell Yates added: “As the PVC-U market becomes increasingly price sensitive and margins start to be hit, the answer for companies who find themselves under pressure is to look at new opportunities with higher-end products where revenues are bigger, and margins are more sustainable. A recession doesn’t have to mean all bad news. With the right supply partner, it could even be just the opportunity they need to aim higher for their businesses and make the leap into aluminium they have long been considering.”

PARTNER UP

The rising cost of living and soaring interest rates have made homeowners nervous about taking on big, expensive renovation projects or investing in a new home. Instead, the focus will be on smaller changes. Something as simple as a new front door can really freshen up the front entrance of a property, while replacing old French doors with new bi-folding doors can make a living space more diverse and encourage an abundance of natural light to enter a property.

Builders can best advise customers on how they can update their homes with ‘quick wins’ that instantly help them fall in love with their properties again. At Origin, our priority is to ensure builders have the tools they need to help homeowners enhance their homes. We have rewritten the rulebook to make life easier for our Partners.

Glazing solution

Over the last 21 years, Origin has been unrivalled in launching new, innovative products to help our Partners accommodate whole-house projects. We are also constantly updating and adding to the Origin Home Range to ensure our systems achieve the highest level of building standards. Every system in the range has been updated to meet and exceed the new Part L regulations and will be updated again ahead of the Future Homes Standard (2025), so builders can be confident in Origin’s superior thermal efficiency when recommending us to customers for now and the future.

Light up the room

With an increasing number of people working from home, encouraging as much natural light as possible inside has

become increasingly important. Natural light is proven to improve mood, stabilize our circadian rhythms, and even increase cognitive performance. Our homes – and allowing as much daylight in as possible –can therefore have a significant impact on our mental and physical health.

As the popularity for broken plan living increases with the need for separate areas for work, life, and play, there’s a risk light could be limited. Thankfully, Origin now offers the OI-30 Internal Door. The glazed system means light can travel throughout the home. Made bespoke and available in over 150 RAL colours, the sleek Origin Internal Door is more modern than other internal glass doors and provides an elegant way to divide living spaces.

Missing install days and project deadlines due to being let down by suppliers can cause a big headache for builders. It can damage reputations and cause financial issues. In a world where consumers can buy products online in a few clicks with guaranteed next-day delivery, we believe the fenestration industry should strive to offer the same level of service.

Origin has completely removed lead times, giving Partners the power to dictate exactly when they need products delivered, even if that’s within as little as 24 hours.

Despite a shift in homeowner priorities, and a reluctance to spend more making significant changes to their homes, there is still a window of opportunity in supporting them. While we remain in a period of economic and political uncertainty, we have no doubt that 2023 will present new challenges – and opportunities – to the building industry. Our priority is to support our Partners with an unrivalled level of service and product range that will support their success.

Ben Brocklesby, Director at Origin, explores the small changes that can make a big impact in today’s challenging market

HAVE YOU GOT THE ENERGY?

We are all confronted with HUGE increases in our energy costs. But putting a bit more effort into selling windows and doors with improved energy performance, will get you extra sales and happy customers.

Every one of us is faced with massive hikes in our energy bills. And every time you turn on the radio, television or pick up a newspaper, there is something

WITH

towards the best they can buy for their home – triple glazing?

What this constant barrage of news about energy does is serve as a reminder to everyone, that energy bills are growing and that we all need to do something about it.

And that provides you with opportunities – free promotion, in effect. And opportunities for you to upsell your customers, leaving them with superior products and, literally, a nice warm fuzzy feeling because you’ve looked after them and saved them even more energy. And you with a bit more money in your pocket to boot.

The Building Regulations were improved in June of last year, with the U values of all doors and windows improved across the board. But the improvements made were minimal from the previous requirements and after all, they apply to everyone: All of your competitors are more likely to take whatever their window and door

supplier provides and, as long as they comply…well, that’s all you need right?

Well, yes. But a little knowledge and effort when talking your customers through a spec, can easily provide them with windows and doors that are significantly better performing than the standard spec, with results that will be appreciated where they count most – in their energy bills.

As a tangible guide to performance, windows installed to the current standard requirements will save as much as £500 per year for an average house, compared to windows installed twenty years ago. That is for windows produced to the minimum performance required by the Building Regs, which is classified as an ‘A’ energy rating on the rainbow charts used to compare the performance of one

These can give ‘A++’ under Energy Ratings, with the extra pane of glass also improving home security and sound deadening. As a comparison, Part L of the Regs calls for a U value of 1.4 W/m2K as a minimum for refurbishments; our triple glazed casement windows offer 1.0 W/m2K, which is pretty much as good as it gets without getting into quite specialised –and expensive – options.

Triple glazed windows are simply the best and will up the cost by around 30% per window. Which means that your margin will increase pro rata. A word of caution: an extra pane of glass does not mean 33% better U value and they will be heavier to move around site and, of course, to install. But triple glazed windows always feel amazing to operate and will kill noise from a busy road as well as give the homeowner an extra feeling of security.

And don’t forget the front doors: 44mm composite front doors with their PU foam cores, provide excellent thermal performance and draughtproofing. We produce our own, energy rated B, that are fitted with superior hardware as standard, with ‘smart’ options that can monitor if the door is properly closed or not. But that is for another time….

Adrian Barraclough runs Quickslide, one of Britain’s leading window & door manufacturers.

TRADE MEDIA

GRANT UK FIND AN INSTALLER ONLINE SEARCH

The ‘Find an Installer’ search facility on Grant UK’s website has been updated. Designed as a user-friendly feature for householders, the resource will also visibly generate enquiries for the G1 Installers listed on the manufacturer’s website. It provides a selection of local heating companies who install, service and repair

WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ100

PROPTECH SEARCHLAND

PropTech innovators SearchLand have found insightful new planning and price data for prospective new homes builders. As part of its latest market report, the team behind the data driven site sourcing platform has established in which LPA house builders are most likely to have an application for planning approved.

GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ101

TRUSTMARK HOME IMPROVEMENT APP

New content on TrustMark’s home improvement App includes information on four new subjects – Loft

Conversions, Garden Buildings, Living Spaces and Garages. The platform already focuses on energy efficiency measures, such as insulation, solar panels, heat pumps, double glazing, and much more. The App can be downloaded on Apple and Android devices by

GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ102

KNOW-IT CREDIT MANAGEMENT

A new cloud-based platform streamlines the credit control process, helping construction firms mitigate credit risk, reduce debtor days and boost cashflow. Know-it allows businesses to credit check and monitor, chase for payment, collect unpaid invoices, applications for payment, retentions, certificates and VOC’s all from one place.

GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ103

Use our digital reader enquiry service for further information online

Well, having just got my DNA test results back from the lab, and updated my family tree, I can answer that building certainly seems to have featured in my family history. I have great-uncles and greatgreat-uncles on the English side who were recorded as carpenters. Although nobody ever told me that – I only found out when I unearthed the census records and marriage certificates.

Mind you, carpentry was a common enough trade in the 18th and 19th centuries, so by the law of averages it is only to be expected that many of us will have ancestors who have sawn, planed and chiselled for a living.

What really impressed me about the DNA test was how accurately it located where some of my ancestors came from – a precise bull’s-eye on the town in Ireland where my grandfather was born. Oh yes, I have Irish DNA in me too –and a lot more than I was expecting. So maybe building really is in my blood!

The other interesting thing about DNA testing is that when you post your results on the genealogy websites, you can get contacted by other people who share your DNA. (Just make sure you un-tick the box that allows the FBI to put you on their crime database!)

So it was that I was messaged by several distant cousins, who I had no idea

existed, and two of whom have sent me old photographs of our common ancestors. Quite remarkable.

The best picture is of a large family gathering on the occasion of my great-greatgrandmother’s 80th birthday in 1899, which most probably includes my grandmother and great-grandmother as well, although I have no way of identifying which ones they are.

But the clothing is fascinating. The picture is in front of a Victorian house – the kind that most of us are used to working on. The house looks much the same as it will do today. But the clothes of its early inhabitants couldn’t be more different. The women are in long dresses and bonnets. The men are wearing flat caps or straw boaters. On a warm summer’s day, every single man and boy is wearing a necktie.

Were there any carpenters in this picture? Quite likely. Everyone would have dressed up for the birthday bash, for sure. But there are plenty of old photos of building workers wearing jackets and ties, too. The “Gentleman Bricklayer” might have taken off his jacket to work, but never his tie!

Fashions change, but the houses remain the same. And construction and building is definitely in my DNA.

Jeff Howell

Last month I asked if I was maybe destined to choose building as a profession. A more fashionable way of asking that would be to question whether building might be “in my DNA”?

ADVERTISEMENT INDEX

Here is a useful summary of all the adverts that appear in this issue of Professional Builder . Each is listed with its page number and a direct URL that will get you straight to the relevant online information

Actis Insulation Ltd............................................................(page 54) www.rdr.link/BAQ120

Alufold Direct Ltd................................................................(page 41) www.rdr.link/BAQ121

Barrettine Group................................................................(page 16) www.rdr.link/BAQ122

Bond-it................................................................................(page 63) www.rdr.link/BAQ123

Buckler Boots Ltd..............................................................(page 52) www.rdr.link/BAQ124

Build Aviator......................................................................(page 26) www.rdr.link/BAQ125

Dakea..................................................................................(page 33) www.rdr.link/BAQ126

Eclisse UK Ltd......................................................................(page 11) www.rdr.link/BAQ127

estimators.com..................................................(inside front cover) www.rdr.link/BAQ128

Faithfull Tools....................................................................(page 32) www.rdr.link/BAQ129

Federation Of Master Builders Ltd....................................(page 52 www.rdr.link/BAQ130

Fischer Fixings UK Ltd......................................................(page 47) www.rdr.link/BAQ131

Garador................................................................................(page 55) www.rdr.link/BAQ132

Glazing Vision Ltd..............................................................(page 38) www.rdr.link/BAQ133

House Builder XL Ltd..........................................................(page 51) www.rdr.link/BAQ134

Knauf Insulation....................................................................(page 4) www.rdr.link/BAQ135

Made for Trade....................................................................(page 13) www.rdr.link/BAQ136

Made for Trade............................................................(pages 14, 15) www.rdr.link/BAQ137

Marley Ltd............................................................................(page 36) www.rdr.link/BAQ138

Onduline Building Products Ltd......................................(page 39) www.rdr.link/BAQ139

Origin Doors Ltd................................................................(page 23) www.rdr.link/BAQ140

Origin Doors Ltd................................................................(page 25) www.rdr.link/BAQ141

Origin Doors Ltd....................................................(bound in insert) www.rdr.link/BAQ142

Pnu-Point Ltd......................................................................(page 55) www.rdr.link/BAQ143

PB Online............................................................................(page 78) www.rdr.link/BAQ144

Quickslide..............................................................................(page 5) www.rdr.link/BAQ145

Rocket Door Frames..........................................................(page 74) www.rdr.link/BAQ146

Rocket Door Frames..........................................................(page 75) www.rdr.link/BAQ147

Rockwool UK Ltd..................................................................(page 6) www.rdr.link/BAQ148

SIXT................................................................................(back cover) www.rdr.link/BAQ149

Tarmac PLC/Blue circle........................................................(page 8) www.rdr.link/BAQ150

Toolfair................................................................................(page 56) www.rdr.link/BAQ151

Tuffx Processed Glass Ltd................................................(page 30) www.rdr.link/BAQ152

Vortex..................................................................................(page 44) www.rdr.link/BAQ153

NO. 41 BACK PAIN (PART 1)

OUCH... I’ve put my back out!

For the next few columns we will cover a mini-series on back pain. There is too much to cover in one month so this time we will cover muscular back pain, followed by worrying signs with back pain and finally back pain with nerve symptoms – “slipped discs” and sciatica. Back pain is a really common reason people will see a GP or a physiotherapist. Back problems can cause a lot of pain but they can also severely limit the activities people are able to do – both in terms of work and leisure – which is why people often have difficulty in managing them. Any episode of back pain should be a trigger to think about looking after your back health to ensure you don’t have repeated episodes of pain in the future.

The vast majority of back pain is related to a simple sprain or strain of the muscles. Back pain associated with other symptoms, such as leg pain, numbness –or being generally unwell – might be related to a number of other causes which we will cover next time. If you are experiencing back pain, I would recommend the lower back pain self help guide. It asks simple questions to determine the cause of back pain and how to help it.

WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ104

So, let’s start with muscular back pain. It can often start for no particular reason, but common triggers may also be sitting in one position for too long, lifting something heavy in an awkward way, doing a new activity or performing more activity than normal. Muscular back pain can be achey or sharp and is normally felt in the lower back. It can be associated with feeling very stiff with spasms of pain and is often made worse by movement, stretching, standing up straight or bending. It can be very, very painful.

So, what should you do about it? As difficult as it might be, keeping active and moving with back pain is an essential part

THIS MONTH GP ALICE FITZGIBBON LOOKS AT A PERENNIAL PROBLEM FOR THE TRADES

for things to improve. X-rays and scans are not useful for back pain that is felt to be muscular. They do not change how the condition is managed.

of the treatment. Often painkillers are needed to allow this to happen. Using a heat pack or ice pack may also provide some relief to the lower back. Resting a sore back will not help it and in fact may make it harder to get moving again. If you have to sit and rest, try to change positions regularly. Doing physiotherapy exercises several times a day will help keep the back mobile and build up strength in the muscles. There are good exercises available on the NHS website: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ105

These may be hard to do at first so do only what you can manage and build up over time. Muscular back pain normally gets better with time but it might not be a quick fix –it will often take up to 6 weeks

Thinking about triggers for your low back pain can help you prevent further episodes. For example, if you are aware it started after some heavy lifting, it would be important not to repeat the same mistakes and pay extra special attention to the techniques you use for lifting. Keeping active, doing regular exercise and making sure you are a healthy weight are all important for preventing back problems. Exercises that strengthen the core muscles, such as yoga or Pilates, can be very useful too (but might not be everyone’s cup of tea!).

So, this month we have covered the most common cause for back pain – the muscles! The self help guide and physiotherapy exercises linked in above can be really useful starting place if you suffer with back pain. If you find you are making little progress or the pain is not settling down, then see your GP as they can assess you and refer for NHS physiotherapy if needed. There is often a long wait for this, however.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON NHS PHYSIOTHERAPY VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ106

ToughBuilt’s

aims to see kneepads treated with the same sense of necessity on the jobsite as other forms of PPE like eye protection, hard hats or safety boots. After all, the consequences of not wearing kneepads can be every bit as devastating. ToughBuilt’s ultimate aim is to reduce the number of people who inadvertently end up with work related knee injuries.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON THE TOUGHBUILT RANGE OF KNEEPADS VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAQ107

#KneelSmartKneelSafe campaign