Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer November/December 2024 by Hamerville Media Group

HOUSEBUILDER

Y DEVELOPER

SPECIAL REPORTS

Sustainable site security

Preventing on-site slips and trips

BNG regulations 8 months on

FABRIC & EXTERIORS

Bespoke timber suppliers

Sustainable roofing solutions using

INTERIORS

REGULARS

SPECIAL REPORTS INTERIORS

10 Housebuilders on housebuilding:

Russell Homes

Neil Walker, Design Manager at Russell Homes, explains how the housebuilder is championing green-led design

12 Regulation challenge

Trimble explores how digital workflows can help housebuilders achieve compliance with recent and forthcoming construction regulations

14 Playing it safe

BauWatch UK explains a few clever site-security solutions that won’t harm the planet.

15 Traction control

A guide on preventing slips and trips on site with EGGER.

16 A diverse approach?

Eight months on from the almostuniversal requirement of BNG, Lanpro, looks at the highs and lows of the roll-out.

24 | ‘Roof is in the pudding

FABRIC & EXTERIORS

18 Wood as gold

What should housebuilders look for in a bespoke timber supplier? Country Hardwood explains

20 Zero to hero

The journey to Net Zero is underway, but using current standards new builds may never achieve true zero carbon Find out more with John Smith, Donaldson Timber Systems Technical Director

22 ‘Strocks’ of genius

It’s clay time with the handmade brick specialist, H.G. Matthews, natural building blocks.

24 ‘Roof is in the pudding

Russell Roof Tiles explores meeting the demand for sustainable newbuild construction with considered roofing materials

27 Got it in the bag!

Ever wondered what goes into making that trusty bag of dust that gets thrown in the mixer? PHPD visits a Tarmac production facility to find out

29 Product round up

30 Living the high life

Charles Mcalpine, climate solutions expert and Managing Director EU of HiiLIFE explains what home heating systems housebuilders should install to maximise efficiency

32 Pipe up

Meeting pipework regulations without sacrificing aesthetics? Dean Heathfield, Commercial Director at Talon says what to look out for

34 Breath of fresh air

Paul Williams, Domus Ventilation Product Manager details the benefits of MVHR systems in new builds

36 Maximum efficiency

Easy ways to increase energy efficiency Mike Vaczi, Technical Director at YBS by SOPREMA reports

38 Mission control

Drayton Controls discusses why fitfor-purpose and energy saving heating controls are essential for homeowners

| Mission control

KITCHENS & BATHROOMS

40 Mutually inclusive

Here Stuart Reynolds, UK Marketing & Product Management Director at AKW, shows how accessible bathrooms and kitchens can be just as beautiful as they are practical.

42 Product round up

Housebuilders on housebuilding

Editor Edward Kelly ekelly@hamerville co uk

Advertisement Manager

Marcus Hooper 07711 007286 mhooper@hamerville co uk

Northern Area Sales

Ian Duff 07810 353 525 probuilder@sky com

Design Adeel Qadri

Group Production Manager Carol Padgett

Production Assistant Kerri Smith

Circulation Manager Kirstie Day

Printer Stephens & George Ltd

Published by:

Hamerville Media Group

Regal House, Regal Way, Watford, Herts, WD24 4YF Tel: 01923 237799

Email: phpd@hamerville co uk

Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer is a business magazine for firms and individuals involved in all aspects of the building industry The publishers and editor do not necessarily agree with the views expressed by contributors, nor do they accept responsibility for any errors of translation in the subject matter in this publication © 2024

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WAITING GAME

Being the last issue of the year, this “First Word” is also a “Last Word” of sorts and marks the end of 2024 As this time of year is best suited to reflecting, there seems no better occasion to look at the past, present and future of housebuilding.

Much the same as most industries, “a waiting game” is the phrase that best sums up housebuilding in 2024 With the general election taking place slap bang in the middle of the year, this “game” was certainly one of two halves, neatly bisected as pre- and post-Labour Although it may be easy to say with hindsight, much of the first half of the year felt like waiting for an election and the inevitable downfall of the Tories With 14 years of increasing gaffes and scandals spread across five premierships, all Labour really had to do was turn up

Our industry played a big part in the lead up to the big vote too, with all sides promising to solve the housing crisis we find ourselves in Of course, 16 successive Ministers of State for Housing from 2010 to 2024 certainly didn’t foster any confidence in the Conservatives being the ones to solve the problem With no real attempts to dismantle the planning hurdles facing developers at all (rather the opposite in fact), it was no wonder the country decided to look elsewhere Sustainability too, is a big talking point in the industry While regulations may have changed during those 14 years to address the need to decarbonise, take the recent Part L and BNG requirements, the roll out of these has been suboptimal to say the least It was high time for a change, we were all just waiting for it to happen

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Indeed, the pledge to “Get Britain Building Again” does seem to have changed the mood in the industry News from the NHBC shows that the amount of new homes registered to be built was up 40% in Q3 2024 on the same figure in Q3 2023. Now is the time to capitalise on this confidence. Our new government has definitely talked the talk, now it’s time to walk the walk No more waiting So, reform those planning laws, sort out interest rates, start incentivising young people to get into the trades, and roll out the Future Homes Standard 2025 properly No pressure!

Circulation: average per issue 12,893 (July 2023 – June 2024)

STRONG FOUNDATIONS

NHBC reports 28,724 new homes registered to be built in Q3 2024

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t o m o v e u s t o w a r d s t h e G o v e r n m e n t ’ s

TALENT POOL

Midlands housebuilder calls for more to be done to encourage girls and women to consider a career in construction

Sophie Horgan, director of Horgan Homes, is one of the ‘Magnificent Seven’ female leaders in construction, spearheading the I Am A Housebuilder campaign launched by the All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for SME housebuilders The campaign sees women wanting to go into construction matched with female mentors

Sophie stressed the need to avoid a huge waste of potential talent She adds: “By far the biggest problem we have in recruiting women is that so many are still not aware that construction is a career path that is open to them It is still assumed that building is something that boys do, and we really need everyone to work together to change that ” Read more at www.rdr.link/daz002

1 5 M n e w h o m e s t a r g e t , w i t h t h i s d e p e n d e n t o n c o n t i n u e d e a s i n g o f i n t e r e s t r a t e s a n d a r i s e i n c o n f i d e n c e a m o n g s t c o n s u m e r s a n d i n v e s t o r s “ P r i v a t e s e c t o r r e g i s t r a t i o n s e x p e r i e n c e d s o m e t h i n g o f a

FOUR OF A KIND

Four-day workweek

MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE

The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) launches 2025 Master Builder Awards

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t i m e t o j o i n a n d b e e l i g i b l e f o r t h e

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A w a r d s h e a d l i n e s p o n s o r

TIME TO HEAD OFF

Housebuilder’s mission underway to restore historic Queen Anne statue in East Sussex

Thakeham is overseeing the movement and restoration of the statue, which dates back to 1713, from Southern Housing’s Holmhurst St Mary development near Hastings

The statue was rescued, bought and installed by Victorian writer Augustus Hare in 1885 after it was damaged and replaced at its original St Paul’s Cathedral location

GROUND ZERO

Hopkins Homes offers homeowners 10-Year Zero Bills Guarantee

Thakeham have now carefully removed the statue, which was further damaged by lack of maintenance and vandalism, and transported it to a stonemason It will be fully restored and placed back at Holmhurst St Mary for the local community to enjoy

POLICY CHANGE?

Government is right to review environmental policies, says National Federation of Builders

The Government has appointed Dan Corry to lead a review of DEFRA’s regulations and regulators and see where there is room for improvement

Richard Beresford, Chief Executive of the NFB, comments: “This review is long overdue The previous government took a very siloed view of environmental regulation and despite regular engagement, including with committees, the views of the construction sector were broadly ignored This has not only created a more challenging landscape for development but has also led to worse environmental outcomes.”

MONEY TALKS

£3.2bn worth of new homes delivered to British cities in two weeks

BEST IN THE WEST!

Chris Williams, site manager for Owl Homes’ Mortimer Manor development in Bewdley, Worcestershire won two awards in the West Region NHBC Pride in the Job ceremony in September

As a Regional Award winner, Chris is eligible for the next stage of the competition, the national Supreme Awards, which will be held on 24 January 2025

Aiming to raise standards in housebuilding, Pride in the Job judging focuses on build quality, teamwork and process, and is assessed by NHBC inspectors, regional directors and

independent professionals

For more information on Owl Homes visit www.rdr.link

For more information on the NHBC’s Pride in the Job Awards visit www.rdr.link/daz007

Market analysis by peer-to-peer real estate investment platform, easyMoney, reveals that £3 2bn worth of new-build homes have been delivered to Great Britain’s housing market in the first two weeks of October alone

Jason Ferrando, CEO of easyMoney adds: “With £3 2bn worth of new-builds coming to the British market in just a fortnight, it’s clear that confidence is up among developers and investors They’ve seen the economic forecast brighten, and they’ve heard the new Labour government pledge loudly about delivering new homes at a rate not seen in this country for decades ”

LINCOLNSHIRE DEVELOPMENT

A total of 114 new homes will be built by Allison Homes East in the Lincolnshire town of Market Deeping The site will be situated off Towngate East, split over two phases and form part of the housebuilder’s existing Beaufort Grange development The new phases of the development, Beaufort Gardens, will provide a total of 114 two, three and four bedroom homes, 40 of which will be affordable homes

For more information go to www.rdr.link/daz010

REDEVELOPMENT

A groundbreaking ceremony has marked the start of work to redevelop Anchor’s Holly Court in Weymouth, after it was badly affected by Storm Eunice in February 2022 The new development, The Hollies, comprises 37 new energy efficient and affordable homes for over 55’s with both one and two-bedroom apartments for social rent Communal facilities will include a lounge for social activities and purpose-built storage for scooters Previous residents of Holly Court will be offered homes as a priority.

For more information go to www rdr link/daz011

SHOWHOME PARTNERSHIP

Avant Homes Scotland has opened a new showhome at its £69m, 252home Jackton Green development in East Kilbride The housebuilder has partnered with interior designer John Amabile to style the new fourbedroom Rainbrook showhome Located off Jackton Road, the development comprises a mix of three- and four-bedroom practically designed, energy-efficient homes and will feature 24 of Avant Homes’ house styles For more information go to www.rdr.link/daz012

PUB REDEVELOPMENT

The first bricks have been laid for 19 new affordable homes on the site of a former eyesore Bilston pub and neighbouring derelict garages. The Happy Wanderer pub on Green Lanes was subject to arson attacks and anti-social behaviour since closing in 2017 due to poor trade It was demolished by the previous owner in September 2021 and the site is now in the hands of Black Country Housing Group, with developer Keon Homes constructing 13 two and three-bedroom houses, and 6 one-bedroom flats

For more information go to www.rdr.link/daz013

AFFORDABLE PARTNERSHIP

Housebuilder Tilia Homes, part of the untypical group, has partnered with the UK’s leading social enterprise, Places for People, in a deal worth around £17 million to bring a choice of affordable homes to its new development in Thetford Sovereign Gate, on Norwich Road, has been created with the environment, sustainability and community in mind, and will provide 130 new energy-efficient homes with one to four bedrooms. Sixty will be available on either a shared ownership or rental basis directly through Places for People.

For more information go to www.rdr.link/daz014

ZERO CARBON HOMES

13 bespoke zero carbon homes are set to be built in Cheltenham courtesy of Newland Homes The housebuilder has secured planning permission for the pioneering project that introduces innovative, farmstead inspired, contemporary home designs The redevelopment will transform a semiderelict 1 3 hectare brownfield site in the Leckhampton area of Cheltenham into eight detached market homes and five affordable homes, showcasing brand new house styles all powered by renewable technology

For more information go to www.rdr.link/daz015

NORFOLK DEVELOPMENT

With plans to bring 272 new homes to its new development, Victoria Gardens, Orbit Homes is continuing its drive to deliver quality homes in Norfolk The development will include 138 affordable homes for social rent and Shared Ownership, alongside 134 homes for market sale All of the homes will feature the housebuilder’s brand-new designs, which have been matched against the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) Safer by Design framework For more information go to www.rdr.link/daz016

SEASIDE SUSTAINABILITY

Kent-based housebuilder Roddy New Homes has unveiled the showhome at its new Ironlatch housing development in St Leonards-on-Sea A large, detached, four-bedroom home, the showhome is one of the company's Hollington house types that features an open-plan kitchen and dining area, attached garage, bespoke fitted wardrobes in two bedrooms and underfloor heating to the ground floor. An air source heat pump and an EV charging point feature too. For more information go to www rdr link/daz017

MIDLANDS DEVELOPMENT

Sherbourne is the name of Spitfire Homes collection of new homes in the picturesque village of Radcliffe on Trent The Midlands based housebuilder’s development is set to include 280 design-led properties, offering between one and five bedrooms. External materials have been carefully selected to reflect the vernacular of the surrounding area. Each home is also designed with layouts to accommodate modern living requirements and finished with a sophisticated specification, creating a collection of future-proofed, quality homes For more information go to www.rdr.link/daz018

DUAL-BRANDED DEVELOPMENT

Contracts have been exchanged on a land deal in Wixams, Bedfordshire, which will mark a major milestone for Tilia Homes and Hopkins Homes as it will be the first dual-branded development for the housebuilders The two brands were recently united under a new company, untypical, which is owned by the Hands Family Office and managed by Terra Firma, the European investment firm

For more information go to www.rdr.link/daz020

LUXURY DEVELOPMENT

Construction is underway on a new luxury property development in Surrey, following a £3 4m residential property development loan from Secure Trust Bank (STB) Real Estate Finance Located in the village of Felbridge, East Grinstead, nine semidetached new-build properties are being built to the rear of existing homes on Rowplatt Lane The homes are being developed by Bruckland Developments, a premium property developer in the South East of England This is the third deal between the lender and housebuilder since 2020, highlighting the success of the partnership thus far For more information go to www.rdr.link/daz019

HOMEOWNER HELP

Designed to simplify the homebuying and selling process for househunters searching across Yorkshire and the North Midlands, Harron Homes has introduced its enhanced Homemover schemes Assisted Move and Part Exchange provide practical solutions for customers looking to move into a new Harron home while avoiding the common pitfalls of selling their current property Pictured below is The Brambles development in Retford, Nottinghamshire

For more information on Harron Homes’ Homemover schemes go to www.rdr.link/daz021

SEEING GREEN

Neil Walker, Design Manager at Russell Homes, explains how the housebuilder is championing green-led design.

With all new housing developments comprising ten or more homes having to demonstrate a minimum 10% Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG), housebuilders are having to look at their new sites through an even greener lens.

Neil Walker, Design Manager at Russell Homes, discusses how the housebuilder has adopted a green-led approach to designing its developments It’s an approach that involves prioritising green spaces over bricks and mortar and has resulted in them receiving a UK Green Building Council-backed eco award for their commitment to championing green design

“We’ve essentially gone back to the drawing board and reframed our design outlook From a practical perspective, this involves identifying where the green areas are going to go and then designing the rest of the development around these core green design features, which include flowing streams and bustling wildflower meadows ”

Creating green-led communities

“The end result is something that’s not just environmentally-compliant, but incredibly special on multiple levels. We’re creating green-led communities that work for both the people who live within our developments and the local wildlife And, more importantly, the green features we are creating now, will still be standing for many decades to come, strengthening the surrounding habitat and wildlife population in the process

However, we aren’t just simply adding green design features for the sake of adding them Considerable time and effort is spent on identifying the right type of features development-by-development and ensuring they are situated in the optimum location. Our aim is to always make sure these green credentials sit right in the very heart of the development; in the most useable and accessible areas where they can thrive and be enjoyed by generation-after-generation of residents If we can maximise the amount of green space, then we absolutely will At one of our developments in Wincham, we’ve dedicated 41% of the site to greenery. While at another site, also in Wincham, we’ve created a green gateway from King Damson, Native Whitebeam and English Oak trees, as well as native shrub mixes This tree-lined ‘green gateway’ boulevard has been created at the front of the development, enabling the properties to be set well back from the main road This site also features an attenuation pond and wildflower meadows While at another development in Norden, we have enhanced a small brook into a stream that runs through the development, turning it into a key focal point.”

Focusing on the old and the new “Applying a green-led design approach also involves us focusing on both the old and the new Preserving as much of the existing habitat as we possibly can is extremely important to us In addition to planting rows of new trees, we retain all of

Neil Walker, Design Manager at Russell Homes

The enhanced brook at Greenbooth Village in Norden

The green gateway at Brook View in Wincham

the protected trees and, if we can make features out of them, then we will For example, at one of our developments in Rochdale, we designed the site layout around a cluster of trees that had stood on the site long before we arrived

Our future vision doesn’t just involve delivering more of the same, but continuously pushing the green design boundaries from every possible angle. Over time, our vision is to create community orchards, swales, and many more surface attenuation ponds, as well as plant more wildflower meadows and native species at our future developments ”

More than just a tick box exercise

“Green housebuilding design is rapidlyevolving, providing housebuilders with an even wider range of opportunities to think

outside of the box and deliver environmentally-friendly design that’s more than simply just a tick box exercise

The new biodiversity requirements coupled with wider global net zero targets are the catalyst we all need to fully embrace green design and create communities that residents can happily call home for many years and fundamentally give the planet the care and attention it truly deserves ”

Russell Homes is an award-winning, independent housebuilder focused on developing beautiful homes in great locations across the North of England

Established in 2004, the company’s portfolio is varied and extensive, ranging from stunning contemporary beachfront residences to beautiful family homes in stunning locations with smart town centre addresses

visit: www.rdr.link/daz022

REGULATION CHALLENGE

Benedict Wallbank, Trimble’s BIM Strategy and Partnerships Manager, explores how digital workﬂows can help housebuilders to achieve compliance with recent and forthcoming construction regulations, demonstrating a clear golden thread of traceable and accessible data.

The last few years have featured a lot of change for those in housebuilding, from the amended Part L regulations in June 2022, the Building Safety Act 2022, the new Labour government with its ambitious housing plans and, looking ahead, the 2025 Future Homes Standard

With new rigid frameworks in place for housebuilders, it’s essential that they can efficiently demonstrate compliance with these regulations, requiring enhanced oversight, transparency and accountability, throughout the construction process and beyond

Differing implementation approaches

While many developers are addressing the regulatory changes with systems and procedures already in places, approaches do vary

Some may have implemented a centralised Construction Management System, which pulls together the activities of different disciplines Tracking regulatory changes, monitoring compliance activities and managing documentation, it provides a unified platform for communication across departments This allows for the easy sharing of data, reports, and compliance status, ensuring that all teams have access to the same information and are aware of any issues that may cross departmental boundaries

Other housebuilders use a standard sharing ‘drive’, such as Google Drive or Dropbox, or even a largely paper-based process, both of which can often be inefficient with the possibility of information being lost

Achieving a clear golden thread of traceable and accessible data

Take Building Regulations UK Part L (BRUKL), for example Compliance reports and certificates are required to verify that the building meets energy efficiency standards There should be both the design stage report, highlighting intended calculations and specifications, and the as-built report, submitted to the building control body and building owner

Photographic evidence of the installed components should be included in the BRUKL as-built report, along with up-todate product specification and calculation actuals. High-resolution images should capture each detail within a plot, with at least one photo per detail per plot These photographs must be taken nearing completion of each stage, allowing building control to audit before that stage is closed out

How a technology solution helps with evidencing

Digital construction tools, like Trimble’s Viewpoint Field View, can support housebuilders to deliver this ‘golden thread’ throughout the construction supply chain, providing a comprehensive and traceable audit trail These tools can be used to track site activities, including quality checks, safety inspections, progress reports and project milestones,

ensuring that all actions are documented for full compliance

Anyone authorised should be able to use a tablet or device, go to the site location and undertake an inspection without prior knowledge of the details, guided by specific questions and clear, accessible information. This ensures inspections can be completed quickly and thoroughly

Documentation and compliance tracking

Any form or approval process currently done with pen and paper can be digitally replicated and improved From toolbox talks and site diaries to quality checks and project progress, everything is digitised so site teams can spend less time handling paperwork Everyone in the business and supply chain follows the same paperless format, with cloud-based documents that are accessible offline and stored throughout the project’s lifecycle and beyond.

For Part L compliance, energy performance data like air tightness test results and thermal insulation details can be recorded The installation of energyefficient systems such as solar panels, heat pumps, and triple-glazed windows can be tracked, with photographic evidence attached and electronic signature signoff

Look out for digital construction systems that allow for real-time inspection and defect tracking on-site, even without an internet connection This allows contractors to record issues like gaps in insulation or improperly installed windows and doors that could affect the energy performance of the building, for prompt rectification

Checklists and workflow management

To aid the workflow of teams and ensure nothing is missed, digital checklists can be tailored with specific tasks to ensure compliance These checklists provide assurance that site teams follow best practices, confirm correct installations and meet regulatory requirements throughout the construction process

Collaboration across teams

Effective compliance with the new standards can demand collaboration across multiple teams, from design and sustainability to project management and construction Selecting a centralised digital platform for communication ensures that all stakeholders have access to the latest updates, reports, and compliance information.

With many of the building products covered by these regulations installed by subcontractors, this approach can help manage compliance by enabling real-time documentation and checklists for thirdparty installers, to ensure they are meeting regulatory requirements

Handover documentation and post-completion

When homes are completed, the building regulations require detailed documentation to be handed over to building owners or occupiers All the necessary handover documentation, including documents like energy performance certificates (EPCs), heating system manuals, and as-built information, can be organised and stored in a centralised place.

Incorporating digital construction tools into everyday processes not only provides enhanced efficiencies and streamlined quality control, but also helps contractors stay ahead of evolving standards - like Part L and the Future Homes Standard By embracing these technologies, housebuilders can ensure they are meeting regulations, improving building performance and delivering energyefficient homes that stand the test of time

PL AY ING IT SAFE

Alexis Potter, Managing Director of BauWatch UK discusses Crime vs carbon and explains a few clever site-security solutions that won’t harm the planet.

Developers are under intense pressure to reduce costs and greenhouse gas emissions across all factions of their business But there’s another issue rearing its ugly head that they can’t cut corners on - theft

It’s an uncomfortable problem to acknowledge – let alone face – but theft on UK construction sites is out of control, and the problem needs to be addresses as a matter of urgency Our 2024 Construction Crime Index, which investigated construction workers’ experience of crime, revealed that theft causes delays to over a third of projects, for instance, costing companies thousands of pounds

Luckily, recent developments in security technology are making it easier for construction sites to protect workers resources, in a way that’s cost-effective and environmentally friendly. Let’s investigate the options:

Use solar-powered CCTV towers

By leveraging renewable energy sources, developers can significantly reduce their carbon footprint while ensuring round-theclock security coverage. In contrast, relying on towers equipped with short-life, disposable batteries not only contributes to environmental degradation but also poses logistical challenges and ongoing maintenance costs

Green Perimeter Fencing

Traditional perimeter fencing often consists of materials that are resourceintensive to manufacture and transport, such as concrete and steel Instead, opting for eco-friendly alternatives such as bamboo or recycled materials can significantly reduce the environmental impact of site security measures

Low-Impact Lighting Solutions

Illuminating construction sites during the night is essential for security and safety purposes but can contribute to light pollution and energy waste if not carefully managed

Utilising low-impact lighting solutions such as LED fixtures with motion sensors and timers helps minimise energy consumption while maintaining adequate visibility

Furthermore, directing light downwards reduces light spillage and disturbance to local ecosystems and wildlife

Eco-Friendly Personnel Practices

Training personnel to adopt eco-friendly practices can further contribute to sustainable site security efforts

Encouraging patrols on foot or bicycles instead of petrol-powered vehicles reduces carbon emissions and noise pollution while promoting physical activity among staff

Providing reusable and recyclable uniforms and equipment reduces waste and supports a circular economy Additionally, offering environmental awareness training empowers personnel to identify and report environmental hazards and implement ecofriendly security protocols effectively

Sustainable Security

By adopting a forward-thinking approach and investing in renewable energy technologies, developers can future-proof their security infrastructure while minimising environmental impact

Navigating the "dos and don'ts" of “sustainable” security requires a holistic understanding of the challenges at hand

It's not just about implementing green technologies but also fostering a culture of environmental responsibility within the construction industry By prioritising sustainability alongside security, developers can set a precedent for responsible development practices and contribute to a greener, safer future.

WAN T TO KNOW MORE?

For more information on BauWatch UK visit www.rdr.link/daz024

Alexis Potter, Managing Director of BauWatch UK

Scott Wolters, UK Building Product Sales Director at EGGER

UK explains how you can better protect your workforce and prevent slips and trips on site.

T R AC T ION CON T ROL

Slips and trips account for the largest cause of injuries in the UK construction industry, with workplace injury and ill health costing the country around £20 7 billion per year With this, it’s clear that more needs to be done to protect workforces on active housebuilding sites, and that teams need to be provided with safe working platforms. Here, Scott Wolters, UK Building Product Sales Director at EGGER UK, takes a closer look

Of all the industries in the UK, construction has the highest number of fatal injuries, with the majority of these coming from falls from height With this in mind, it’s critical that housebuilders take steps to ensure the safety of their teams on site, including the careful consideration of any specification choices.

A fundamental part of any housebuilding project, structural flooring will often be installed early on in the construction process, generally before the building has been made watertight As a result, the flooring often serves a secondary function as a working platform for weeks or even months, providing site teams and subcontractors with the means to carry on other works around them. In addition to having to withstand daily site traffic and dropped tools or material spillages, the flooring is also likely to be exposed to the elements, posing a potential slip risk for the workforce

When specifying structural flooring for a job, the focus will often be placed on its durability, performance, cost and sustainability However, given its secondary use as a working platform, it is evident that housebuilders should also be checking a structural flooring product for its slip potential. It’s therefore important to understand what you should be looking for in terms of product ratings and the types of testing that flooring undergoes to achieve these ratings

The predominant test for structural flooring and its slip resistance is the Pendulum Test, which provides a Pendulum Test Value (PTV) Widely used

across the UK, a Pendulum Test evaluates the way a shoe or foot will react to a surface, in both damp and dry conditions

The pendulum itself acts as the shoe or foot and is swung from height in an arched motion across the sample being tested. The highest height this pendulum reaches after touching the surface is then recorded as the PTV This pendulum is intended to simulate a worker’s boot crossing over the surface, providing an accurate result for slip resistance

All structural flooring is tested against this system under BS-7976-2, with a value of 36 or more resulting in a Low Slip Potential being assigned to the product, as seen with EGGER Protect. A value of between 24 and 35 is calculated as a Moderate Slip Potential and under 24 has a High Slip Potential, with anywhere from a 1 in 20 to a 1 in 200 chance of a slip occurring at this level

Whilst most structural flooring boards on the UK market achieve a Moderate rating, EGGER remains the reliable manufacturer of a chipboard-based structural flooring board that is verified as Low Slip Potential in Wet Conditions, in accordance with the Health and Safety Executive’s (HSE) guidance for assessing the slip resistance of flooring

EGGER Protect is a high-quality structural flooring board, thermally bonded on both sides to ensure protection from moisture and engineered to withstand tough site conditions It has achieved the highest class of slip resistance, with a Pendulum Test Value (PTV) of 40 in wet and 55 in dry conditions – independently tested and verified by a UKAS accredited laboratory Providing a 60-day safe solution, which can be fitted in light rain conditions, EGGER Protect significantly minimises the chance of accidents and injuries on site

WAN T TO KNOW MORE?

For more information about EGGER Protect, please visit www.rdr.link/daz025

A DI V ERSE A PPROACH?

Has BNG been a sucess? Mark Topping, Director of Design, Lanpro, look at the highs and lows.

Biodiversity net gain (BNG) became mandatory for major developments from 12 February and for small sites from 2 April Eight months on from the almost-universal application, Mark Topping, Director of Design, Lanpro, the multi-disciplinary planning consultancy, looks at the triumphs and tribulations

Lanpro has long promoted and implemented what we refer to as ‘green infrastructure-led schemes’: a holistic approach to masterplanning which takes the existing environmental parameters as its base and delivers a scheme around this. This approach has been welcomed and encouraged by local planning authorities - both prior to BNG becoming mandatory and increasingly so following

It goes without saying that BNG has had a significant impact on the development sector.

BNG must now be considered at all stages of the planning process, from validation, through to assessment, discharge of conditions and reporting

In most cases, BNG will require a combination of onsite and offsite habitat creation and enhancement to meet the objectives set out in the Environment Act Importantly, significant habitat creation and enhancement must be managed and monitored for a minimum of 30 years

For the purposes of the regulations, BNG is measured using the biodiversity metric calculator which has been developed by Defra Net gain is measured as the percentage change in the biodiversity value of pre and postdevelopment habitats The minimum 10% gain must be achieved separately for area habitats, hedgerows and watercourses, if these different categories of habitat occur within the planning boundary

Most would view the policy as a net gain in many respects: over time, it will result in considerable enhancements to natural environments and will see greener, healthier developments with high value and high quality habitats

At this still relatively early stage, however, several issues remain unresolved.

The need for developers to provide a like-for-like (or like-for-better) replacement in biodiversity terms is not well understood An example is where an ‘area’ feature is lost due to development, such as grassland This often cannot simply be offset by new woodland or hedgerow planting: it must often be a like-

© Josie Elias / Adobe Stock Mark Topping, Director of Design, Lanpro

for-like replacement This is also the case when a particular protected species of flora or fauna is lost This causes an obvious challenge for developers

( w

Another current issue in proving biodiversity net gain is a lack of registered off-setting sites, although it is hoped that this is a short-term issue. I know of several councils which are developing habitat banks but are currently in the process of finalising Habitat Management and Monitoring Plans and S106s In some LPAs, there currently are no registered sites for BNG This leaves the options as onsite, in proximity subject to legal agreement, starting negotiations with landowners, or the Environment Bank option

Clearly one measure of the success of BNG is the roll-out of well-designed sites which achieve a 10% biodiversity uplift without losing developable land. Essentially this comes down to appropriate design of BNG and preparing designs that are

maintainable in perpetuity. Clear management plans should be created to ensure this, plans which cover the full 30-year period to ensure landscape management is adaptable to evolving aspects of increased development in proximity, environmental changes in climate and disease One aspect of is a clear understanding of the soil composition of sites and ensuring the correct specifications are proposed for the conditions available on site This also comes down to protection of existing habitats and soils through construction as the areas of open space on site are often the locations of site compounds with associated areas of compaction, potential micro pollution from concrete spillage and dust, for example

The greatest BNG concern is the risk that some sites will become unviable for development While we have not seen this specifically, we did have an urgent submission for a small site prior to the 2 April deadline which may have otherwise been unviable However, I suspect there are many land-banked sites which will no longer come forward as a result – though potentially those land banks could come forward as BNG sites themselves.

Inevitably there are many practical issues in relation to the provision of BNG, but essentially the principle is welcomed by those striving to create popular and environmentally responsible developments The sense among the planning and development industry is that when these issues are ironed out, the standard of new development (and the impact on the surrounding area) will improve exponentially

© JasperSuijten / Adobe Stock

WOOD AS GOLD

For housebuilders working in an industry where quality is paramount, ﬁnding a reliable supplier that can meet all your needs can be a signiﬁcant challenge. With that in mind, we got in touch with one manufacturer and supplier that has been shaking up the bespoke hardwood market for over a decade, offering a comprehensive range of products that caters to even the most complex needs of architects, and developers across the UK.

Founded in 2007 to handle overflow from a local joinery company, Buckinghamshire-based Country Hardwood has grown exponentially over the years, evolving into a leading manufacturer and supplier of bespoke timber windows, doors, conservatories and more.

"Our journey has been one of constant evolution," Mark Osborne, Managing Director of Country Hardwood reflects. "We started with conservatories and gradually expanded our range to cover all external joinery needs for any property or project "

“One of our main strengths now as a company is that we offer a complete package,” Osborne adds “Whether our customers require beautiful bespoke architectural roof lanterns or traditional Georgian-style sash windows for a restoration project, we can provide it.”

Reframing timber

When it comes to manufacturing timber products, expertise is everything

Often considered the most premium material, timber continues to be sought after for the most luxurious of projects. However, creating timber products that stand the test of time requires exceptional craftsmanship

Country Hardwood’s manufacturing process is best described as a careful balance between tradition and innovation While these may seem like two opposing forces, it’s this perfect balance that allows the manufacturer to offer beautifully crafted timber products on a large scale

Combining time-honoured woodworking techniques with cutting-edge technology,

Country Hardwood produces windows, doors, bifolds, orangeries, conservatories, and roof lanterns that are as durable as they are beautiful At the heart of the manufacturer’s success is a team of 18 highly skilled artisans, many of whom have been with the company since its inception

This wealth of experience is complemented by significant investments in state-of-the-art technology, including a recent £700,000 acquisition of a one-of-akind CNC machine "We've always believed in combining traditional woodworking techniques with advanced manufacturing processes," Osborne explains "Our new CNC machinery allows us to produce joinery with precision and provide consistently exceptional quality.”

Over the years, Country Hardwood has continued to innovate, even with a material as timeless as timber. “We're dedicated to developing our products in response to the evolving requirements of developers, and architects We recently introduced a wrap-around locking system that is completely unique to us – this ensures that our timber windows and doors are more secure than ever before.”

“A few years ago we also introduced an Oak-lookalike hardwood that's soaring in popularity," Osborne shares. "It offers the aesthetic appeal of oak without the premium price tag, making it an attractive option for those seeking quality on a budget "

Sustainable luxury

In recent years, the construction industry has witnessed a significant shift towards

Mark Osborne, Managing Director of Countr y Hardwood

sustainable materials, and so housebuilders and architects are increasingly recognising the environmental benefits and aesthetic appeal of timber

Country Hardwood is well-positioned to meet this growing demand: “Our entire product range is crafted with FSC-certified timber sourced from sustainably managed forests, making our products ideal for environmentally-conscious developments ”

Better still, sustainability doesn’t come at the cost of quality On the contrary, Country Hardwood's bespoke approach ensures that each product is fully customisable, making them ideal for highend projects that demand unique specifications “We understand that every project is unique," Osborne states. "That's why we offer fully bespoke solutions, from dimensions to finishes Our in-house CAD design team can bring even the most ambitious visions to life "

While Country Hardwood's primary focus is the UK market, their reputation for quality has attracted international attention "We've recently shipped to Argentina, Spain, Japan, and France," Osborne shares "However, our heart remains in the UK We're committed to supporting British craftsmanship and keeping our manufacturing local " Osborne adds that "Every product we supply carries with it the passion, skill, and dedication of our entire team. We invite trade professionals to join us in bringing the timeless beauty and sustainability of timber to projects across the UK and beyond "

The journey to Net Zero is underway, but using current standards, new buildings may never achieve true zero carbon. Donaldson Timber Systems Technical Director, John Smith, explains.

ZERO TO HERO

While it sounds complex, the message is simple: without measuring and reducing the cradle to grave impact of a build, there is a very real risk that buildings constructed to new standards in 2026 and beyond won’t achieve true zero carbon

On the face of things, it seems that the journey to Net Zero Carbon homes is progressing, with the first Building Regulation changes already in effect as we work towards the Future Homes Standard (FHS). From 2025, newly built homes need to be ‘zero carbon ready’, with a 75% reduction in carbon emissions to 2021 levels in England and Wales

While this is a much-needed step in the right direction, more clarity is required on what it means to be carbon neutral The new standards focus on reducing operational carbon, failing to recognise the impact of embodied carbon

The reality of embodied carbon

Embodied carbon is the total greenhouse gas

emissions generated during the construction and demolition phase It is calculated in two separate elements: from raw material extraction through to construction of the building on site, including fuel and power for transport, factories and plant; and end-of-life emissions from demolition, transport from site and recycling / landfill

In a new home completed to 2021 standards, embodied carbon is around 1520% of the whole life emissions, with the rest from operation carbon (energy required for heating, lighting and hot water) With a target to reduce emissions by 75% through operational carbon reductions, the embodied carbon becomes much more significant By 2025, it will be over 40% of whole life carbon for a new-build, and over 60% by 2030.

Despite this, embodied carbon emissions are currently unregulated in the UK construction industry, with only voluntary measurement and mitigation required

The UK is lagging behind in this area

The Netherlands and Sweden already have mandatory embodied carbon requirements for all new buildings, with Denmark and Finland following suit In France, embodied carbon in housebuilding has been regulated since

Donaldson Timber Systems Technical Director, John Smith

2022 This regulation addresses the entire life cycle of buildings and requires developers to measure both operational and embodied carbon To comply, developers must perform Life Cycle Assessments (LCA), which evaluate environmental impacts from raw material extraction through to demolition or reuse

Measure and reduce

As demonstrated elsewhere in Europe, the only way to achieve zero carbon is to measure and reduce the whole-life carbon of buildings The availability of environmental product declarations (EPDs) is an important step in recognising this

An EPD communicates the environmental performance of a product over its lifetime, making it possible to compare the impacts of different materials and products accurately and allowing customers to select the most sustainable option

We’re investing in this process for all our products and were proud to become the first timber frame manufacturer to offer a published EPD for an off-site assembled timber frame wall panel. We always champion the use of offsite timber frame as the best way to achieve sustainable building practices, but a verified EPD proves these claims

Time for timber

When we factor embodied carbon into the zero-carbon journey, timber comes into its own Life cycle studies of timber frame homes show that they significantly outperform alternatives – saving around

40% of emissions in comparison to concrete and 30% compared to steel

Timber frame homes are more sustainable during the build, when in use and throughout its lifetime Timber can also lower or offset its embodied carbon thanks to sequestration, absorbing one tonne of CO2 in every m³ while the tree is growing and storing it until the timber is incinerated or goes to landfill

Timber frame offers a safe, reliable, technical solution - homes have been built this way across the UK for years and we know that it works At DTS, we have been working with our partners in the UK housebuilding market for almost 50 years

In missing embodied carbon, FHS has a major flaw. It aims for homes to be ‘zerocarbon ready with no further work needed’, yet by using these incomplete measurements, the carbon in the fabric will not be offset by even the greenest energy without improvements to the insulation and air-tightness

With the Government committing to building 1 5 million homes in the coming years, embodied carbon must be legislated, or we’ll never achieve true zero carbon homes

‘STROCKS’ OF GENIUS

It’s clay time with the handmade brick specialist, H.G. Matthews, natural building blocks

The rate at which we are using up the earth’s resources is accelerating at a worrying pace. We’re currently consuming 35 billion tonnes of sand, gravel and crushed rock for building, for example, a figure which is projected to reach 55 billion by 2060 At the same time, the cement industry is responsible for 8% of the world’s CO2 emissions This has long been recognised as an unsustainable path, and the need to later course is now pressing One handmade brick manufacturer thinks it’s done just that – and the solution is literally right beneath our very feet

“Our approach has been two-fold”, enthuses Jim Matthews of Cheshambased H G Matthews “We want to champion low carbon production techniques as well as sustainability in material resources If you consider the latter point first what’s often not considered is the amount of virgin material used in construction ”

The H G Matthews answer is actually a return to a building material and technique that stretches back millennia Indeed, the brick expert’s recipe can be found at the dawn of civilisation in the mud bricks of ancient Mesopotamia Made from unfired clay, and wheat straw that act as a binder, H G Matthews’ Strocks are load-bearing natural building blocks that achieve a rating of 1 5Nm/mm2 which is

more than enough for the loads in a one or two-storey property

In the south of England clay is a ubiquitous substance but that doesn’t mean that all of it can be made into bricks Only certain clays can cope with the stresses of being fired to over 1,000℃ but, when you’re eliminating the firing process entirely, any clay will do the job and you are presented with a superabundant material That means the waste clay that HG Matthews routinely digs through to reach the consistency required for brick-making is now a useable commodity

Not only that but, because it’s unfired, Strocks are using significantly lower levels of energy in their manufacture Rainwater collected from the H G Matthews roof is used in the mix, and biomass boilers, fuelled by locally-sourced wood chips, take care of the drying Moreover, a building made of Strocks is more breathable, thereby helping to regulate internal humidity in a home

This then brings us to another ancient technique that suddenly finds a place in the modern world If you’re digging out the foundations for a building, why landfill all that clay, and pay for the privilege? Instead, good use can be made of that earth by making blocks out of it, thereby effectively erecting a structure from the very ground on which it stands This is

Perimeter wall in the Apex Building, Tribeca Development, King’s Cross, London

exactly what Jim Matthews and his team have done and the results are impressive

In order to demonstrate just what can be achieved with natural materials, H.G. Matthews was involved in the construction of a nursery close to its Buckinghamshire brickworks Strocks were used in the inner cavity wall with wood-fired handmade bricks and lime mortar on the outer leaf, and hemp insulation in between. Glulam beams provided the structural integrity, and the building was finished with clay plasters and paints

Since this project Strocks have also been used in a variety of applications,

including the Apex Building for the Tribeca Development, King’s Cross, London

Once a building like the above ultimately reaches the end of its useful life that’s not the end of the story either A mix of clay, sand and straw can easily be reused, which makes an unfired block ideal for recycling

Strocks are natural building blocks that can be used in the inner skin of an internal wall – where they will replace concrete blocks – or for outer walls that can then be clad in a sustainable building board On the inside, a clay or lime plaster can be utilised, covered with a breathable paint It’s easy to chase into the blocks with a multi-tool and fixings can be screwed into them in much the same way you would timber

Subject to a two-hour fire test at over 1,000 degrees – as you would expect from clay – the material proved to be fireproof. They can be laid exactly as you would any concrete block with the accompanying thin-bed clay mortar very easy to use – just spread the mortar on, put the blocks down and tap into place with a hammer

“As far as we’re concerned the answer to producing a sustainable building block has been hiding in plain sight,” concludes Jim “It’s the clay that’s all around us and has been used in various forms for thousands of years It’s fully compatible with the demands of a circular economy and is a locally sourced solution There’s a greatly reduced carbon footprint in manufacture, whilst there are real benefits for the occupiers of properties built with Strocks, particularly with regards to the moderation of moisture levels In addition, the blocks demonstrate a very high thermal mass and density, which offers excellent insulative properties, keeping bills down in the winter They’ll even absorb the harmful Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) that are found in modern homes Put simply, clay and straw as building materials are still as good as it gets ”

Jim Matthews of H G Matthews explains the strocks natural building blocks manufacturing process

‘ROOF IS IN THE PUDDING

Russell Roof Tiles explores meeting the demand for sustainable new-build construction with considered rooﬁng materials.

In recent years there has been an upturn in the number of consumers wanting to live in sustainable homes This extends to not only cover energy efficient features but the construction of the home too, an independent study found that a third of households surveyed when asked about “eco-homes” wanted their property to be constructed sustainably as well as to include renewable energy systems, recycling and food waste disposal

For housebuilders and developers this demand means minimizing the environmental impact of all areas of construction from site management to the technologies used. Sourcing sustainable products is one key element that can help

reduce the carbon footprint of the construction process and help ensure that new housing is efficient

Greener Products for Greener Building

Specifying sustainable building materials, that are renewable, recycled or have low environmental impact, can be the foundation to building homes with a reduced ecological footprint

When it comes to roofing specifically, concrete roof tiles can offer a more sustainable solution. Typically, they require less energy for production than their clay counterparts; since clay needs to be fired in a kiln at a much higher temperature for up to two days, whereas concrete only needs to be cured for around 24 hours at a much lower temperature, amounting to a 30 per cent reduction in energy usage

Specifically thinner leading-edge concrete roof tiles can be a good sustainable roofing solution Generally, 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

Alongside this, they offer easy installation, are aesthetically pleasing, require little maintenance and can be

used with renewable energy systems like solar panels – making them a great option for planners and developers

Putting it into Practice

Leading housebuilders are already ensuring new build developments meet the exacting demands of the sustainably minded consumer.

One of these being MyPad who are an established residential developer specialising in the delivery of partnership housing schemes from land to living, creating dwellings for communities in need of them. As part of its ethos, the company strives to provide highly efficient homes enabling residents to save on running costs and live comfortably

Russell Roof Tiles has supported a number of projects in the midlands with leading East Midlands Residential Developer, MyPad for which it's Lothian Tiles in Slate Grey were specified, a popular thinner leading edge option

For these recent projects the housing developer was in search of an ecoconscious roofing solution that would help the developments meet high sustainability standards, with the housing itself on some sites being constructed with a timber frame Russell Roof Tiles’ Lothian Tiles provided a high-quality but cost-effective solution that will help to ensure the development meets these requirements

Michael Broadhurst, Commercial Manager at MyPad comments: “Customer demand for sustainably built and maintained housing has really pushed the standard of housing forward, over and above just the recent enhancements in Building Regulations

“At MyPad we pride ourselves on providing high quality, highly efficient

homes We achieve this through providing a fabric first approach, highly insulating the structure of the building and using sustainable building materials throughout This then makes running their home efficiently, that much easier for residents

“In the market of social housing this is becoming increasingly important We are seeing a much higher demand for such housing as many feel the ongoing effects of fuel poverty It is our responsibility to ensure the homes we are building are as efficient as possible to ensure people can live in them comfortably ”

One step further

The sustainability of a product can go beyond its manufacturing process to include how it is stored, and how it is transported For example, signing up to a pallet return scheme and making the switch to electric equipment is something that Russell Roof Tiles have done to reduce emissions across its sites and as a result its products.

All of the timber pallets used to transport goods are FSC-approved, and the logistics team works to consolidate delivery shipments to reduce our fleet emissions Russell Roof Tiles has also redesigned its packaging with increased amounts of recycled material, in an effort to make the entire process more sustainable

As a prominent manufacturer of concrete pitched roof tiles, the company has made major investments in sustainability across its three sites and are proud to be leading the task force to analyse new initiatives and develop methods that can help us foster a more sustainable future for the construction and housebuilding industry

GOT I T IN THE BAG!

Ever wondered what goes into making that trusty bag of dust that gets thrown in the mixer? PHPD visits a Tarmac production facility that is at the very heart of the UK construction industry to ﬁnd out.

Given the ubiquity, longevity and heritage of the iconic Blue Circle cement brand it demands an industrial process to match and Tarmac’s Tunstead Quarry certainly delivers It is here that the manufacturer’s leading cement products make the entire journey from raw material to packaging, and the scale is truly awe-inspiring It is the biggest plant of its kind in Europe, covering 340 hectares of the Peak District, and four times the size of nearby Buxton

The unique quality of the Derbyshire limestone that has undergone 350 million years of geological processes to form has always been highly prized, and there has been a cement plant at Tunstead since as far back as 1890 Whilst its current operators are following in that fine industrial tradition, they are equally aware of their environmental responsibilities As each level of the quarry ceases production natural habitats are

restored, ensuring that the present-day custodians of this ancient landscape continue to work in harmony with this area of outstanding natural beauty.

On our visit, enough material was carefully blasted from a rock face in a single controlled explosion to satisfy just under one week’s production Giant CAT 992 Wheel Loaders and the similarly imposing 100-tonne CAT mining trucks transfer that material for crushing. The site is serviced by no less than five railway sidings, dramatically reducing the number of trucks needed on the road, and the consequent CO2 emissions

r e n g t h s .

A t t h e s a m e t i m e i t s i n g r e d i e n t s a r e n o w

e n g i n e e r e d t o r e d u c e C O 2 o u t p u t w h e r e v e r p o s s i b l e w i t h o u t i m p a c t i n g o n p e r f o r m a n c e T h a t ’ s a t h e

The Tunstead Quarr y is the largest of its kind in Europe

The Tunstead operation is also a demonstration of the circular economy in action. The crushed limestone has to be washed and the waste slurry is then recycled Limestone is mixed with the other components of cement, including clay, shale, sand, iron ore and bauxite and ground in a mill armed with many thousands of steel balls until it is reduced to particles of no more than microns in size Another ingredient – blast furnace slag – which is a by-product of the steel industry, reduces the amount of limestone required and, as a consequence, the embodied CO2

The material is then moved past heat exchangers that expose the mix to 500ºC before it enters the real heart of the process – the kiln. It is here that a 12metre long flame generates a consistent and positively volcanic 1,500ºC temperature along this rotating steel tube’s entire length This produces a chemical reaction between the ingredients, and a transformation into an entirely new material – clinker. The cement plant is fed by a constant supply of clinker from two huge silos These grey nodules are then cooled down very quickly to 100ºC before being mixed again and milled to a fine powder

Cement manufacture is an energy intensive process and it’s a reality that manufacturer’s such as Tarmac are acutely aware What is evident from the work at the Tunstead facility is that careful thought has been given to address the issue at every stage Whether it’s

championing rail transport, using blast furnace slag, or targeting zero waste, whatever can be controlled has been Added to that is the introduction of Portland Lime Cement (PLC), a blended product with an increased limestone content, and less clinker, that can reduce CO2 outputs by up to 10%. It is envisaged that this will ultimately replace CEM I as a more environmentally friendly option without any detriment to performance.

At the same time, it’s not all about brute industrial force because there is technological brains at work A robot affectionally known as ‘Jack’ takes up to 150 quality control samples a day to ensure every bag of cement is as good as the last. A control centre allows two operatives to watch over the entire process, including the UK’s most efficient packing plant.

Tarmac is the market leader in terms of Packed Cement & Cementitious products in the UK and the Blue Circle brand remains synonymous with quality and trust Tarmac also offers the widest range of Packed Products in the UK, offering customers a full range of aggregates, bituminous products, ready-to-use and specialist solutions, most of which can be sourced from merchants. Tunstead is also the home of Quick Set Concrete and Postcrete The latter was introduced more than 20 years ago as a first of its kind and is testament to a long-standing commitment to innovation Indeed, the Tunstead quarry itself speaks eloquently of a company that is dedicated to adapting its processes to satisfy customer demand and safeguard the environment

Tarmac is working hard to reduce the embodied carbon of its products

The Tarmac range of Packed Products is extensive

LOW-CARBON CLAY PAVERS

A premium concrete block paving that combines traditional aesthetics with modern materials That’s how Aggregate Industries is describing its Piccolo Setts – a direct alternative to Dutch clay pavers The slimline block produces around 50% less carbon compared to traditional clay pavers and is suited to domestic spaces, including driveways and garden patios For more information go to www.rdr.link/daz032

GLASS BALUSTRADE SYSTEM

The latest addition to AliDeck’s AliRail range of modular aluminium balustrade solutions is the AliRail Insight Glass Balustrade System Featuring Pyroguard Balustrades fire-rated glass, it meets the stringent safety requirements of BS 8579:2020 for projects exceeding 11 metres in height and that of Approved Document B For more information go to www.rdr.link/daz033

FLASHING TAPE

COMPOSITE PANELS

Birkdale has launched a new composite fence panel – DuraPost® VISTA. The panels can be used for boundary fencing or to create garden features An attractive timber-look design is complemented by an easy tongue in groove installation and a light weight The panels also integrate with the DuraPost galvanised steel fence post system and post infills

For more information go to www.rdr.link/daz034

Rooftec Flashing Tape provides excellent puncture resistance while the bitumen component delivers a balance of flexibility and adhesion without the risk of slumping The Samac Fixings’ tape has a tear-resistant design to ensure quick and easy application while maintaining crease resilience

For more information go to www.rdr.link/daz035

OFFSITE MANUFACTURING

As a zero energy housebuilding solutions provider, TALO specialises in the offsite manufacture and installation of advanced timber superstructures to deliver new low-rise homes The high level of thermal efficiency of the system removes the need for energy bills and snagging, and at no cost premium for the developer or housing provider For more information go to www.rdr.link/daz036

INTERLOCKING TILE

It's the patented interlocking tile design of Northern Building Plastics’ Integratile that makes it up to 30% faster to fit when compared with traditional tiles Manufactured in the UK from recycled polymers, the NBP solution is designed for harsh weather, maintaining rain screen integrity, even at a low pitch of 12 5° It is also resistant to mould, moss and fungus

For more information go to www.rdr.link/daz037

MONOCOUCHE RENDER

Helping housebuilders achieve sustainability targets, weberpral E by Saint-Gobain Weber uses the next generation of cement replacement, resulting in a reduction in overall carbon emissions. With many renders requiring 20mm thickness in locations classed as ‘severe exposure’ to wind-driven rain and frost, weberpral E has reduced water absorption so can be applied at just 15mm thickness to achieve the same performance

For more information go to www.rdr.link/daz038

Charles Mcalpine, climate solutions expert and Managing Director EU of HiiLIFE, a bespoke technology provider for the construction sector, explains what home heating systems property developers should install to maximise eﬃciency.

L I V I NG T HE HIGH L IFE

As energy costs and environmental concerns continue to rise, housebuilders find themselves at the forefront of increasing our energy efficiency. One of the most impactful ways housebuilders and architects can contribute to a sustainable future is by integrating advanced heat pump systems and smart control technologies into their properties These solutions not only reduce energy consumption, but also offer residents a more comfortable living experience With the cost of energy showing no sign of slowing down, it is crucial for residential developments to acknowledge the importance of incorporating these systems.

Charles Mcalpine, climate solutions expert and Managing Director EU of HiiLIFE explains more:

“The heat pump has been a game-changing solution for energy-efficient heating and cooling Unlike traditional boilers, heat pumps work by transferring energy in the form of heat from one place to another Heat pumps are more efficient than traditional heating systems because they use electricity to pump

refrigerant around a circuit instead of burning fuels, such as gas, to heat water. There are two main types of heat pumps: air-source and ground-source An air-source heat pump transfers energy from the outside air into the home, even in colder temperatures In contrast, groundsource heat pumps transfer energy between the ground and a building Ground-source offer developers energy efficiency and more consistent bills due to the stable ground temperatures they transfer energy from, but installation costs can be high I’d say air-source pumps are the most cost-effective option for many properties While ground-source pumps offer a higher level of energy efficiency, the installation requirements are not suitable for all properties and these also come at significant expense

Installing heat pumps in property developments offer both developers and

Charles Mcalpine, climate solutions expert and Managing Director EU of HiiLIFE

potential buyers a variety of benefits

Compared to traditional heating systems, heat pumps produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to a more sustainable development while also helping developers meet increasingly strict environmental regulations Energyefficient properties are becoming increasingly attractive to buyers and renters, who are mindful of energy costs and the environment

While heat pumps offer energy efficiency, integrating smart control systems in developments can increase these benefits even further Smart thermostats allow for precise temperature control, ensuring that heat is only delivered when and where it is needed

Many systems are equipped with algorithms that can adapt to household behaviours, automatically adjusting heating schedules for when residents are typically home or away. For property developers, these advantages can translate to residents benefiting from the long-term value of lower energy bills. It also demonstrates to environmentally conscious buyers how the properties in question are prepared for the future

Smart home systems also offer remote access control, allowing residents to adjust heating elements while away via mobile applications. Not only does this

offer convenience, it also enhances energy efficiency by allowing users to manage their property’s energy use anywhere, anytime Smart home systems can also provide energy usage insights, allowing people to see data relating to their energy expenditure These insights often lead to better decision-making, encouraging more energy-conscious behaviours. For developers, providing homes with smart systems can enhance a property’s value by offering buyers the tools and data to make their home more sustainable and cost-effective

Perhaps the most standout feature of smart heating systems is zoning capability Zoning allows residents to heat different areas of a home independently so one can consider the usage, location, and occupancy of each space Integrating this innovative feature into the build offers a competitive edge in the market, thanks to the attractiveness of personalisation options and increased efficiency as less energy is wasted on heating the entire home.

In summary, future-proofing home heating systems with heat pumps and smart home controls has a whole host of commercial benefits for property developers Not only do they align with modern sustainability trends and home designs, they also reduce energy waste and lower utility costs for buyers and residents In today’s competitive market where sustainability and long-term value is a priority for consumers, energyefficient properties are increasingly attractive investments Housebuilders who embrace and implement these innovations will be well-positioned to meet demand and stand out to buyers and residents in the increasingly crowded property landscape ”

PIPE UP

With tightening regulations and increasing expectations for quality, housebuilders need pipework solutions that ensure compliance, save time on-site and enhance the overall appearance of a property, says Dean Heathﬁeld, Commercial Director at Talon.

Getting pipework right in new builds is about more than just compliance – it’s about delivering a polished, professional finish that reflects the quality of the entire build. With the tightening of regulations like Part L, ensuring airtightness and energy efficiency is a must, but it doesn’t stop there Housebuilders and developers need solutions that not only meet the new standards but also save time on-site and enhance the overall aesthetic of the property.

barrier around pipes passing through the building envelope.

From 2025, all new builds will have to comply with the Future Homes Standard Homes built under this standard are expected to have 75 to 80% lower carbon emissions compared to those built under current regulations A major source of heat loss in homes is through gaps around pipe penetrations in walls, floors and ceilings Without proper sealing, these gaps allow warm air to escape and cold air to seep in, reducing energy efficiency and raising heating costs. Recent updates to Part L of the Building Regulations, which move toward the Future Homes Standard, aim to combat this issue by requiring builders to use pipe seals and grommets that create an airtight

Talon’s PipeSnug and FlueSnug are a quick and efficient solution, providing an all-in-one seal that prevents heat loss, drafts, damp and even pest infiltration PipeSnug is designed to seal around pipes that penetrate external walls, ensuring that builders can quickly and easily comply with regulations without compromising the thermal envelope of the building. FlueSnug serves a similar purpose for boiler flues, creating a reliable airtight seal that can be installed from inside the property, simplifying both installation and maintenance W

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While airtightness and compliance are crucial, how a building looks at handover is just as important Exposed pipes, especially in high-visibility areas like kitchens and bathrooms, can detract from the overall ambience of a space Homebuyers expect these rooms to reflect modern, sleek designs and messy or unfinished pipework can leave a bad impression, suggesting a lack of attention to detail.

This is where products like Talon’s Snappit come into play, offering housebuilders and developers a simple, effective way to give pipework a clean, professional appearance Snappit is designed to cover exposed copper pipes around radiators and towel rails, providing a neat finish with no need for painting or fiddly workarounds Simply cut the uPVC sleeve to the required length, snap it into place and add the collar for a perfectly finished look

Using Snappit not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also saves on time and effort; there’s no need to wait for paint to dry or worry about chips and scratches Snappit is UV stabilised and comes with a 10-year guarantee, meaning it will look just as good years after installation and is available in a range of colours, including chrome and anthracite grey, so it blends seamlessly into the design of modern interiors.

Beyond sealing and covering, the right clips and accessories can make all the difference in ensuring a tidy, organised installation Talon’s Hinged Clips are known for their durability and ease of use, securing pipework in a single step for safe, efficient and visually neat installations. Alongside these clips, link spacers are available to ensure uniform pipe spacing, creating a tidy, professional finish. The clips come in a range of colours, including red, blue, yellow for easy identification of hot, cold, and gas pipes, as well as white and black, offering a complete colour range to suit any installation

For housebuilders looking to save time and effort, the EZ Joist Clip simplifies and secures pipework installations, particularly

in challenging overhead or hard-to-reach areas, offering a quicker, more secure solution than traditional nail-in clips The clip’s side-on installation design allows for safer work above head level, with a sidenailing feature that eliminates the need to access the top of joists Its 360-degree pipe retention allows for fixing pipes already in place and multiple clips can be seamlessly connected for extended runs or complex layouts.

Another practical accessory is the Identification Clip range, which helps installers easily mark pipes according to their contents With colour-coded options for hot water, gas and cold water, these clips help builders and future occupants identify which pipes carry what, reducing the time spent tracing systems and improving safety on-site

It’s not an overstatement to say the finish can make or break a project While meeting regulations is critical for compliance, achieving a polished, professional look is what leaves a lasting impression Pipe collars offer builders an efficient, effective way to meet airtightness requirements, while clips and accessories provide the finishing touches that take a build from functional to flawless

For developers and housebuilders, the right products represent an opportunity to improve efficiency, save on labour and deliver a higher standard of workmanship. By incorporating these innovations into their projects, builders can ensure not only that they meet the latest regulations but also that their work stands out for its attention to detail and quality

BR E ATH OF FRESH A IR

Paul Williams, Domus Ventilation Product Manager explains why housebuilders and architects should be specifying MVHR systems in their new builds.

Valued at $106 69 million in 2022, the Mechanical Ventilation Heat Recovery (MVHR) UK market is predicted to reach $235 34 million by 2030 This extraordinary growth is being driven by increased awareness about the benefits of MVHR, as well as the adoption of these systems to comply with the latest uplift to Building Regulations

MVHR systems take a whole house approach to ventilation, combing supply and extract ventilation in one system They extract the stale air from wet rooms (kitchens, bathrooms, utility spaces) within a property via ducting, transferring the heat from that air to the fresh air being drawn into the building via a heat exchanger Domus Ventilation’s HRXE MVHR range recovers heat with up to 95% efficiency, making it highly effective The filtered, pre-warmed air is then distributed around the home

If you’re yet to be sold on MVHR systems, then consider these key benefits:

1. Health

In the UK, we spend 80-90% of our time indoors The air that we breath indoors is therefore just as – if not more – important than the air we breathe outdoors Sources of indoor air pollution are widespread, from cooking, cleaning products and furniture to external emissions entering our homes In the winter months you also have condensation and mould to contend with. Poor indoor air quality has been linked to an increased risk of respiratory and cardiovascular illness, cognitive impairment and certain cancers England’s Chief Medical Officers Annual Report 2022 Air Pollution stated: “The role of ventilation is central to reducing unavoidable indoor air pollution ” MVHR

systems are the most effective ventilation method for our homes as they both extract stale air and supply filtered ‘fresh’ air to key rooms, such as bedrooms

2. Comfort

Breathing in poor quality air is not only unhealthy, it’s unpleasant As stale air is usually the result of a buildup of chemicals (especially VOCs) and humidity, our homes feel ‘stuffy’ and can have an unpleasant smell MVHR systems are continuously on, removing that stale, humid air and its undesirable odours Furthermore, during colder months they take the chill out of the supply air by passing it through a heat exchanger where the outgoing air’s energy is extracted and transferred In the summer months, an automatic 100% thermal bypass allows in cooler, fresh, filtered air without warming it

3. Energy efficiency

By reusing the outgoing air’s heat to temper the incoming air, MVHR systems help reduce the home’s heating load. The Centre for Sustainable Energy estimates heating costs can be reduced by around 25% Whilst MVHR running costs are dependent on the property size, building fabric, occupant lifestyle etc , they are inexpensive to run To ensure maximum energy efficiency is gained from an MVHR system though, it’s important to correctly size the unit, use good quality ducting (Domus Ventilation ducting has been third party tested for end-to-end system performance), and correctly install and commission the units

4. Structural integrity

If not dealt with, trapped condensation can lead to timber decay and can have a detrimental effect on insulation More often though, it leads to mould growth on

surfaces of walls and furniture Removing large areas of mould is not easy and can be costly, especially when redecorating is required and furniture has to be replaced What’s more, as the source of the mould hasn’t been addressed, it’s very likely it will return. MVHR systems remove humidity, reducing levels of condensation and preventing mould from forming

5. Building Regulations

Changes to Building Regulations ‘Approved Document F, Volume 1: Dwellings’ (ADF1) came into effect on 15th June 2022 Across all sizes of properties, minimum ventilation rates were increased In the case of larger properties with five bedrooms, the minimum ventilation rate went from 29 to 43l/s To achieve these new ventilation rates, mechanical ventilation systems such as MVHRs are the most proficient option

6. Value-add

The public are more aware than ever before of the importance of good air quality Stories of extreme overheating in properties located in urban heat islands are also making national news For housebuilders, an MVHR system can therefore be an attractive proposition to home buyers, providing them with good indoor air quality, added comfort and energy efficiency

www.rdr.link/daz041

M A X I MU M E F F IC I E NC Y

In an effort to decarbonise the built environment, homes and other buildings must now be built to a higher, more energy eﬃcient standard. Here, Mike Vaczi, technical Director at YBs by soPrEMA looks at the current and future requirements and explain how the tightening standards can be met.

With the serious impact of global greenhouse gas emissions now increasingly obvious, the drive to achieve net zero by 2050 has become a priority In the UK, the built environment accounts for approximately 30% of the country’s greenhouse gas emissions, of which heating is the main source, accounting for 23% of the total itself Therefore, to achieve the net zero target there needs to be a significant change to the energy efficiency of buildings

One of the key steps in this process was the update to Part L of the Building Regulations, which fully came into force in June 2023 following a 12-month transition period. The new standards for energy efficiency aimed to achieve a 30% reduction in emissions from new homes and a 27% reduction for other buildings

Another crucial step in the move toward more energy efficient buildings is the Future Homes and Buildings Standard, which is set to be introduced in 2025 This will raise the energy efficiency standards for new builds and major renovation projects still further

A Government consultation on the exact requirements of the Future Homes and Buildings Standard concluded earlier this year, with the response still to be published In the current proposals there are two notional building specifications for new homes, however both options would include the same U-value targets:

Roof: 0.11 w/m2K

External wall: 0.18 w/m2K

Floor: 0 13 w/m2K

Window: 1 2 w/m2K

Door: 1.0 w/m2K

This marks a significant tightening of standards compared with the Part L 2016 requirements, which homes were built to until the most recent uplift In fact, it is a 45% change in the roof U-values, 40% for that of external walls and 48% for floor Uvalues Although necessary on the path to decarbonisation, the targets will be a challenge to meet and will require an increased focus on minimising heat loss when designing each element of the home

The key question is how can the required performance be achieved? Well, it’s clear that achieving the target U-

values laid out in the Future Homes and Buildings Standard will require a strongly fabric first approach, where thermal improvements to the structure of the building are prioritised over the use of additional technologies to achieve energy efficiency This means that insulation and airtightness must be maximised

There are several factors to consider when designing and installing insulation to ensure its effectiveness is maximised The first and perhaps most obvious is that a holistic approach needs to be taken, whereby the insulation of the roof, walls and floors are all considered, alongside minimising heat loss from windows, doors and other thermal bridges in the structure

In addition, the available space is a consideration. The thickness of the insulation is often, although not always, linked to the performance it delivers, particularly for PIR insulation. Therefore, it is essential to ensure there is sufficient space in the rafters, wall cavities or under floors to fit the required thickness of insulation For example, most new homes will be designed with rafter

thicknesses of 200mm or more to accommodate the insulation

It is also important to remember that different types of insulation work in distinctive ways, so combining these products together can help minimise the different forms of heat loss For example, using PIR insulation between the rafters, which prevents conduction, and overlaying this with a multifoil product, which reflects infrared back, will prevent all forms of heat transfer – conduction, convection, and radiation

Furthermore, as homes become more airtight and well insulated, the risk of overheating increases, which is why Part O: Overheating was created within the Building Regulations alongside the most recent updates to Part L. Therefore, minimising heat transfer through radiation also has a further advantage Not only will this type of insulation help reflect heat back in during the winter but will provide an effective barrier against solar overheating in the summer, minimising the need for mechanical cooling

Finally, it is always important to look for products that have third party accreditation to help ensure they will deliver the performance levels stated by the manufacturer KIWA BDA and the British Board of Agrément (BBA) are among the most widely recognised third party testing accreditations in the industry and will confirm the performance Other certifications, such as the National HouseBuilding Council’s NHBC Accepts are also important to look for, especially if the new home is covered by NHBC warranty and insurance policies

With all regions of the UK expected to have seen household living expenses rise between 18% and 19% in 2024, compared to 2022, it is evident that the cost-of-living crisis is continuing to have a signiﬁcant impact on many homeowners.

Considering this, Jeremy Palmer, General Manager at Drayton, discusses why it is essential that homeowners have access to ﬁt-for-purpose heating controls that can help them to become more energy eﬃcient, which in turn can help to save them money.

MISSION CON TROL

Many people across the UK are feeling the impact of the ongoing cost-of-living crisis and have been for some time, and those in new builds may be feeling the pinch given the expense involved in homeownership

Thankfully, now more than ever, technological advancements in the heating controls space are offering people the opportunity to manage their home’s energy more efficiently, which helps not only to reduce costs but also to limit energy consumption as the drive to protect the planet increases

Housebuilders can help their residents see improvements simply by ensuring heating controls are up-to-date. In fact, energy savings of up to 12% can be made just by upgrading a basic Class I heating control to a best practice Class V or Class VI thermostat

So, what controls can benefit those who live in new build developments and what further savings can be made when it comes to energy bills?

What controls are suitable for new builds?

There are lots of smart heating controls available on the market today. Those, such as Drayton’s Wiser, can help to save an additional 6% on top of the 12% saved by upgrading

However, these kinds of controls require a significant investment that may not be realistic for the developer concerned In addition, the smart heating controls of today can be complex to use

for some, especially for those who require ultra-accessible devices Controls of this nature can be off-putting to some residents, making achieving savings more difficult Therefore, Bluetooth-enabled smart controls, such as Drayton’s Digistat, offer a great alternative.

Not only does the Digistat offer users the opportunity to control their heating schedules via the Wiser Home app with a smart phone, but its user-friendly design also ensures that the physical thermostat on the wall can be adjusted manually with ease As well as a large back-lit LED display, the Digistat is designed with recessed buttons and has the option for audible feedback when adjusting the heat settings, which has been recognised by The Research Institute for Disabled Consumers, who have named it a recommended thermostat

What’s more, auto-balancing TRVs are now available, which ensure that the system’s radiators are permanently balanced and receive the correct flow rate creating more evenly distributed heat across the home Typically, introducing auto-balancing TRVs can save up to 8% in energy usage in the average home

How can Bluetooth-enabled controls help to reduce energy bills?

As mentioned, homeowners can use Bluetooth-enabled devices to build their personalised heating schedule via an app, such as Wiser Home app for Digistat which means they can easily ensure the heating is only switched on when required, and to the desired temperature.

schedule and optimising energy use by learning the thermal characteristics of the home and taking into account external temperatures

In addition, the Digistat features load compensation which saves 10% of energy use compared to traditional ON/OFF thermostats Alternatively, enabling OpenTherm modulation enhances the performance of heating systems, generating a 12% reduction in energy use

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Away Mode works by allowing the user to set their heating to turn off for a set period of time, whilst they take a trip away, for example. While Delayed Start works automatically by delaying start times, intuitively adapting the pre-set

The cost-of-living crisis is still very much a reality for those living in new builds and while incorporating modern heating controls cannot single-handily solve this issue, there is evidence to suggest that solutions like Drayton’s Digistat and range of TRVs are able to help reduce the cost of household energy bills by driving down energy consumption.

Specifying cutting-edge heating controls can certainly make a property more attractive. Particularly if you can explain the advantages and cost saving benefits that the right technology will provide

WAN T TO KNOW MORE?

For more information on Drayton’s range of heating controls including the Digistat, visit www rdr link/daz043

MUTUALLY INCLUSIVE

As soon as the word ‘inclusive’ is added to the word ‘bathroom’ or ‘kitchen’, many will think of institutional spaces that look out of place in most homes. Here Stuart Reynolds, UK Marketing & Product Management Director at AKW, shows housebuilders and architects how style and functionality can be combined in the bathroom and kitchen to encourage accessibility that is beautiful as well as practical.

Increased demand for inclusive bathrooms and kitchens

The data shows that by 2035, the number of people aged 60+ in England alone will reach 29% of the population And this ageing population is driving demand for inclusive bathrooms and kitchens Alongside this ageing demographic, a survey released by the Department for Work and Pensions in March has also shown that the number of disabled people in the UK is on the rise. Nearly one in four (24%) of the total population is now classified as disabled, representing an increase of 3 9 million people over the past decade

Designing a stylish inclusive bathroom

When it comes to designing a stylish inclusive bathroom, AKW has worked with occupational therapists to put together guidance and this can be found on our website Here are some of the key things to consider when developing bathrooms for those with existing disabilities or for the older demographic:

Easy navigation – a well-lit bathroom is essential, and the light must be adequate for a variety of tasks, avoiding shadows, dark areas and glare If designing for visual impairments, trip hazards can be minimised by using anti-slip flooring and contrasting colours that have a light reflective value difference of at least 30 on grab rails and shower seats, to help navigate around the space.

Ease of use – the standard bathroom layout has numerous trip points, slippery floors, hot water and potentially confusing layouts For ease of use for older users and those with dementia it is important to include tonal contrasts between surfaces and critical planes and include thermostatic taps, low surface temperature radiators and under-floor heating where possible to avoid scalding and burns

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Accessible kitchens in practice

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Storage - For wheelchair users, all units should be fitted at no more than 350mm above the worktop to maximise use and can be fitted with pull down baskets to allow easier access to items, or fit electrically operated units, such as AKW’s ActivMotion Wall Units, that come forwards and down, to enable those with limited reach to have use of the whole kitchen Although designed for wheelchair users, such easy access storage can also be installed for those difficult to reach areas that would require a non-wheelchair user to get a stool to access the higher shelves

Lighting – For safety thought needs to be given to the placement of two types of lighting, task and general lighting General lighting via downlighters should be calculated as one per 1 5 to 2m2 These should be positioned over key task areas Task lighting should be used under the cupboards and in drawers where specific spaces need to be highlighted

Cooking – Choosing a hob that can be recessed into the worktop ensures the smooth sliding of dishes and saucepans over it, reducing the need for a wheelchair user - or someone with weaker mobilityto lift and carry heavy items The only ovens suitable for accessible kitchens will have either a slide and hide or side opening door and will also be fitted with at least one pair of telescopic shelf rails. The oven should be fitted into a tall housing unit and located with its main shelf position at a height suitable to the users’ needs

It is possible to create inclusive bathrooms and kitchens that combine style, reliability, and accessibility both quickly and affordably For more details on wheelchair design in the kitchen or bathroom, why not download one of AKW’s free best practice guides on using the rdr link below?

INSTANT HOT WATER TAP

Working with JT Ellis and Honey Homes on a sustainable new build development at Lees Lane, South Normanton, Abode has supplied 50 homes with its R15 Matrix Single bowl stainless steel sink Homeowners also had the option to upgrade their taps to the company’s Pronteau Prostream 3 IN 1 instant hot water tap Each tap is supplied with a Proboil 2X intelligent hot water boiler, which can be fitted quickly and easily with best-in-class toolless installation.

For more information go to www.rdr.link/daz045

MODULAR FURNITURE

Bathrooms to Love, PJH’s exclusive bathroom brand, continues to refresh its furniture collection, and has launched this latest premium range, the LIGNE MATT GRAPHITE GREY floor-standing modular family Featuring a textured geometric design of vertical and diagonal lines, the units are finished with a beautiful super matt, fingerprint-proof surface in a bold graphite grey colour, contrasted with elegant solid Maple wood ‘framed’ legs.

For more information go to

TAP AND SHOWER RANGES

As a way to include a wider selection of products that cater to every style and budget, Bristan has updated its taps and shower ranges with the Elevar and Liso ranges The ranges include coordinating taps and bath shower mixers in two finishes matte black and signature chrome Both ranges include a matching basin mixer, bath filler and bath shower mixer Prefitted flow regulators are included in the basin mixers for the eco-conscious. For more information go to www.rdr.link/daz047

MULTI-TASKER TAP

Clearwater Products is excited to introduce the Morpho Tap, a smart and versatile addition to modern kitchens Designed to make kitchen tasks easier and more efficient, the Morpho Tap is the ultimate multi-tasker, blending flexibility, style, and convenience The Flex & Spray spout lets the user bend and shape the spout into any position needed, giving the user precise control over the water flow

For more information go to www.rdr.link/daz048

LUXURY BATHTUB

The Luv bathtub from Duravit has a pared-down design to suit any interior, features quality workmanship and is designed to provide top-of-the-range comfort The bathtub, made from the mineral-cast material DuroCast®, offers flexible placement too, with freestanding, corner or back-to-wall versions available Impress potential homebuyers with a bathroom with a touch of Scandinavian elegance

For more information go to www.rdr.link/daz049

LOW FLOW HANDSET

With a clear message that the sector is focusing too heavily on large-scale sustainability initiatives, Methven is urging a re-evaluation of priorities to include more accessible, immediate solutions that can drive meaningful progress towards Net Zero and decarbonisation targets One of the brand’s low flow handsets, for example, could achieve annual savings of 800kg of carbon for a homeowner, reduce bills by over £500, and lower water consumption by up to 91,000 litres

For more information go to www.rdr.link/daz050

ELEGANT WASHBASINS

Crafted to redefine bathroom elegance, RAK Ceramics’ RAK-Ingot washbasins are designed to captivate with their sleek shapes, luxurious finishes, and possibilities for seamless integration into any modern bathroom scheme. Available in three stunning finishes and four distinct shapes - oval, rectangle, round, and square, bathroom layouts compatibility won’t be an issue

For more information go to www.rdr.link/daz051

SPECIFIER BROCHURE

Reginox UK has launched a brand new brochure specifically for specifiers. Easy-to-read and specify from, the brochure features curated ranges of the company’s impressive ‘good, better, and best’ sinks, taps and accessories The brochure, available in print and online includes inset and integrated sink collections, granite and ceramic sink ranges, PVD coloured sinks, all manner of taps, and much more

For more information go to www.rdr.link/daz052

WWHRS ELECTRIC SHOWER

Developed and manufactured by Mira Showers, the Mira Advance HeatloopTM is the first ever electric shower to be designed to work with Recoup waste water heat recovery for shower systems (WWHRS), revolutionising waste water efficiency and reducing energy wastage While showering represents around 50 to 75% of household hot water use, around 85% to 90% of the heat energy in shower water actually ends up going down the drain

For more information go to www.rdr.link/daz053

DESIGN-LED CABINET HANDLES

Hendel & Hendel deign-led cabinet handles now available with Waterline –the perfect partner to a Crown Imperial kitchen These designs are not only visually stunning but also tactile, adding the perfect defining touch to any space Each collection boasts a lifetime guarantee, providing customers with peace of mind and assurance that their investment is built to last

For more information go to www.rdr.link/daz054