Professional Builder March 2020 by Hamerville Media Group

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FRE E TO THE TRA DE

Professional BUILDING ■ FLOORING ■ PLUMBING ■ ROOFING ■ CARPENTRY ■ PAINTING AND DECORATING ■ THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR THE BUILDING INDUSTRY

WIN 100 2.5L CANS OF DULUX TRADE DIAMOND MATT TO BE WON SEE PAGE 26

TOOLS, FIXINGS & WORKWEAR THE FULL BOX SET!

ROOFING, FLOORING & INSULATION ALL THE ADVICE ‘U’ NEED

MARCH 2020

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contents

Total Average Net Distribution 113,695 1 July 2018 – 31 June 2019

MARCH 2020 VOL. 42 NO.3 @PB_mag

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

REGULARS 9 11 14 17 28 95 96 97

Editor’s Viewpoint News Letters DI-WHY? Free for All Digital Digest The Doctor’s Advice Wise Howell

26 TOOLS, EQUIPMENT & WORKEAR

FREE FOR ALL!

50 Makita – Efficut Blades 52 Bosch – Rotary Laser Level 54 Brian Hyde see page 28 – Time Saving Tools 56 3M – Respiratory Protection SPECIAL REPORTS 59 Werner – Safety at Height 18 Tool Theft – The ToolWatch App 63 SFS Fixings Guide 21 Durakerb – Recycled Kerbs 67 Snickers Workwear Review 24 LDV in China 71 Bosch Combi Drill 72 HB42 – Eco Foils 74 NEW PRODUCTS

In it to win it...

COMPETITION

OVER £3,000 worth of paint for PB readers!

ROOFING, FLOORING & INSUALTION

COMPETITION 77 WIN WITH MAKITA!

31 34 37 41 43 46 48

Permaroof EPDM Training Marley – Roofs for Extensions Stella – Rooflights Wallbarn – M-Tray Green Roof Freefoam – Approved Installers Knauf – Acoustic Insulation NEW PRODUCTS

HIGHLIGHTING THE DIY DISASTERS AND BODGE JOBS THAT YOU, OUR READERS AND OUR ONLINE COMMUNITY, ARE CALLED IN TO FIX ,

BUILDING MATERIALS 78 79 91 92 97

NEW PRODUCTS Ardex A46 Norbord CaberWood MDF Quickslide Garden Doors Trade Media

83 BUILDERS’ VEHICLES 83 Honest John – Large Panel Vans 86 Van Vault Slider 88 VW Transporter 6.1

PROFESSIONAL BUILDER MARCH 2020 3

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viewpoint

MANAGING EDITOR TERRY SMITH EMAIL: tsmith@hamerville.co.uk DEPUTY EDITOR LEE JONES EMAIL: ljones@hamerville.co.uk GROUP ADVERTISEMENT MANAGER CRAIG JOWSEY TEL: 07900 248102 EMAIL: craig@hamerville.co.uk NORTHERN ADVERTISEMENT MANAGER IAN DUFF MOBILE: 07810 353525 EMAIL: ian@hamerville.co.uk REGIONAL ADVERTISEMENT MANAGER SAM SHANNON TINSLEY MOBILE: 07554 013302 EMAIL: stinsley@hamerville.co.uk GRAPHIC DESIGNER DONNA BOOTH GROUP PRODUCTION MANAGER CAROL PADGETT PRODUCTION ASSISTANT CLAIRE SWENDELL DIGITAL MANAGER LUCY DIXON EMAIL: ldixon@hamerville.co.uk DIGITAL ASSISTANT JASMINE SMITH EMAIL: jsmith@hamerville.co.uk DISTRIBUTION MANAGER KARL CLARK PUBLISHER BRYAN SHANNON PRINTED BY WALSTEAD PETERBOROUGH PUBLISHED BY HAMERVILLE MEDIA GROUP Regal House, Regal Way, Watford, Herts WD24 4YF Tel: (01923) 237799 Fax: (01923) 246901 Email: pb@hamerville.co.uk

payment in kind! It was the much respected poet and civil rights activist Maya Angelou who first came up with the notion, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Wise words, which have never seemed more profound as modern society struggles to sate a seemingly insatiable appetite for round-the-clock news headlines and gossip, the vast majority of which could only dream of even making tomorrow’s fish and chip wrappers! The fact is, there is another famous saying – “kindness costs nothing”, and it should never be underestimated what a huge effect even a small dose of goodwill can have on someone’s daily wellbeing. What’s more, it is a fundamental human quality that resonates very loudly with the great British public, especially if the results of a survey from www.myjobquote.co.uk are anything to go by. Ranking all of the trades which are invited in to our homes, it transpires that electricians are deemed to be most friendly. The survey of almost 1,500 Brits revealed that just below the “sparkies” were gardeners and landscapers, followed in descending order by plumbers, HVAC “Those tradespeople who can engineers, window glaziers, painters and add a touch of human decorators, floorers, plasterers, bathroom specialists, roofers, carpenters, general builders kindness to their skillset are and kitchen specialists. Moody old tilers were statistically the ones most bottom of the pile for some reason... perhaps they likely to succeed in business” have to endure more than their fair share of difficult customers changing the original spec! It would be interesting, of course, to turn the whole thing on its head and see what line of work the actual customers were involved in, and what tradesmen thought of them, but perhaps that’s best left for another day! The simple fact is that whatever the reasons behind the very obvious disparities between the trades, there are certainly some important lessons to be learnt in how those languishing lower down the friendly league table can improve their overall demeanour in the workplace. To this end, those surveyed were also asked to identify actions taken by tradespeople they appreciated the most, and the results make interesting reading. ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Professional Builder is a business magazine for firms and individuals involved in all aspects of the building industry. It is available nationally – free to the trade through leading builders’ merchant outlets. © 2020 To be removed from this magazine’s circulation, please call 01923 237799 or email circulation@hamerville.co.uk. Subscriptions to Professional Builder are available at the following rates: UK: 1 year (11 issues) – £30.00 post paid Europe & Overseas: 1 year (11 issues) – £50.00 post paid Airmail: 1 year (11 issues) – £65.00 post paid

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Not being annoyed and happily providing updates/progress when asked (84 per cent) Providing a valid reason and apology for not turning up when agreed (79 per cent) Cleaning up any mess before leaving Not getting upset when providing feedback about workmanship (70 per cent) Apologising for being late (66 per cent) Asking permission to use the bathroom (61 per cent) Following up a missed phone call (53 per cent) Not asking for too many cups of tea/snacks (37 per cent) Basic greeting, saying hello and bye when leaving (31 per cent)

You might assume that many of the items highlighted on this list would fall into the category of common courtesy, but clearly there are worrying traits that are missing or being overlooked from some of the professionals that walk into a customer’s home. Some might argue that friendliness is simply part of some people’s general persona and not something that can instantly be turned on and off to suit the occasion, but it is surely a skillset that, just like practical prowess itself, can be learnt or honed to positive effect. After all, the paying public clearly hold an enormous amount of stock in friendliness and kindness when making their choice of trade professionals, and others would be wise to look in the direction of their electrical peers for some pointers on how to improve customer relations. As we said, kindness costs nothing, but failing to recognise its obvious workplace benefits will almost certainly cost a small fortune in a career of missed business opportunities.

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News Professional Builder

email your news to us at pb@hamerville.co.uk Tel 01923 237799

IN THE POORHOUSE After a recent study labelled new housing design in England as overwhelmingly ‘mediocre’ or ‘poor’, the FMB is backing small house builders to make the improvements Builders (FMB) contends that The national audit ©esdras700fotolia small housebuilders can conducted by UCL for deliver better quality homes CPRE, the countryside and happier people. Brian charity, and the Place Berry, Chief Executive of the Alliance looked at over 140 FMB argues that the report housing developments built shows the impact of thirty across England since 2007. years of market consolidation The report concluded that squeezing out the small that one in five of these builder. “SME house builders developments should have have to compete on quality been refused planning rather than volume, so it is hardly surprising permission outright, as their poor design was contrary to advice given in the National that a broken housing market dominated by a handful of major developers is failing to Planning Policy Framework. A further 54 deliver what homeowners want and need. per cent should not have been granted To get SME builders back into the housing permission without significant market we need to tackle the barriers of improvements to their design having been made first. These schemes scored badly in land supply, access to finance and a simpler planning system.” terms of character and sense of place, were dominated by access roads, with poor GET MORE DETAILS AT: integration of storage, bins and car parking. WWW.RDR.LINK/BN001 In response the Federation of Master

RATE OF KNOTS

Do you know what renovation projects can be undertaken without planning permission?

It’s believed that at least 5 per cent of homes across the UK are affected by knotweed, knocking 10 per cent, or £23,530, off the average UK property’s value. With 29 million homes across the nation, that’s 1,450,000 properties, impacted with a huge £34.12bn wiped off in value. According to the Japanese knotweed removal specialists, Environet UK, it costs the average homeowner £2,500 to treat Japanese knotweed with herbicide and £5,000 upwards to excavate it. Environet has a handy treatment cost calculator on its website which takes into account the size of the visible infestation.

To clear up any confusion, comparethemarket.com has teamed up with a range of experts to create a tool that answers the UK’s most searched for questions around renovations. You don’t need to apply for planning permission when building a porch, for example, if it’s no more than 3 metres above ground level, and if the ground floor doesn’t exceed 3 square metres. Similarly, if you adhere to the strict size regulations, adding a conservatory is equally exempt.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON HAMUCH.COM VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BN004

The service aims to make it straightforward for tradespeople to sign up and start receiving job leads via Google Ads. Tradespeople complete a short online questionnaire and Get Work’s fully automated platform takes care of everything for its customers; from the setup of a dedicated landing page, Google Ads account and call management, through to account optimisation and reporting. The developers of the service maintain its business model means it’s able to offer an entry-level price point that makes online advertising more accessible to tradespeople. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN002

PLAN AHEAD ‘FLEXI’ BEAST

HaMuch.com has looked at the value being wiped from UK house prices due to the nation’s growing knotweed epidemic.

VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BN003 TO TAKE A LOOK

GET WORK!

Get Work has partnered with Google to provide a fully automated lead generation service for tradespeople.

TO VIEW THE FULL LIST VISIT COMPARETHEMARKET.COM’S INTERATIVE TOOL AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN005

If you can come up with a new strapline for the Rhino Flexi Tub brand, and the manufacturer uses it, then a case of beer is yours! In 2003, Stadium introduced the original 40 litre Rhino Flexi Tub and it would become the builders’ merchants’ ‘bucket of choice’ for its sheer toughness and durability. Today it’s still top of its game but the Rhino Flexi Tub brand is getting a makeover and we need you to help. Simply email in your suggestions for a saucy, new strapline and, if chosen, the lucky winner will receive a case of beer to say thank you. Email marketing@flambeau.com by 30th April 2020. T’s and C’s apply. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN006

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Professional Builder

News

STOP PRESS... STOP PRESS... STOP PRESS... After concerted pressure from within the industry, the Government has taken the decision to delay by one year the implementation of potentially damaging VAT changes for construction companies. Common sense prevails for once!

EURO STAR

DEAD HEAT

Eurocell announces 8 per cent increase in annual PVCu recycling figures

The average UK home wastes £363 worth of heat through poor insulation, finds Flir Systems

The equivalent of 3.2 million PVCu window frames – approximately the same weight as 3,700 doubledecker buses – was saved from landfill in 2019 thanks to Eurocell’s commitment to recycling. The manufacturer has continuously upgraded the capabilities of its Ilkeston and Selby-based recycling operations since 2009. Eurocell Recycle, which employs 150 people, is the largest operation of its kind in the UK. When windows reach the end of their life, they are shredded, granulated and micronised. Using the granulated PVCu, new profiles can be then extruded. This process can be repeated up to 10 times using the same material, giving recycled PVCu windows a lifespan of 350 years or more. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN007

Meanwhile.....

GLASS ACT

Morley Glass & Glazing is working in partnership with Saint-Gobain Glass to take recycling to the next level. The two companies are joining forces to recycle and re-use post-consumer glass; that is glass that has been taken out of old windows that have reached the end of their life. Morley Glass & Glazing’s 50,000 sq ft manufacturing space in Leeds, West Yorkshire will act as a collection centre for post-consumer glass where the company has installed a glass crushing machine. Ian Short, managing director at Morley Glass & Glazing said: “We are offering our customers the opportunity to return their post-consumer glass to us for recycling free of charge. The money we receive for the recycled glass will be donated to local environmental charities.” TAKE A LOOK AT A VIDEO OF THE PROCESS IN ACTION AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN008

ECO WARRIORS

The 2020 trends in sustainable building are revealed

Sell House Fast surveyed 582 architects, engineers and construction (AEC) professionals to identify the eco-friendly building materials they expect the property (commercial as well as non-commercial) industry to increase using in 2020. The light weight and tensile strength of Bamboo will see it establish itself as the fastest grower, according to the forecasts, quickly followed by straw bales and timbercrete. With our use of plastics now a major issue in the public consciousness, recycled versions of the material should also fair well, as will hempcrete. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN009

12 MARCH 2020 PROFESSIONAL BUILDER

As the cost of heating a home continues to rise, UK homeowners are wasting a total of £7 billion – amounting to a staggering £363 per household during the winter period. The survey also reveals that older homes from the Victorian, Edwardian and Georgian era are wasting the most on energy bills, with poorly insulated walls the biggest culprit, accounting for 36 per cent of wasted heat. Energy auditor, Philip Emsley, Director of PE Energy Solutions comments: “Addressing draft issues and improving insulation is a short-term outgoing which can result in a significant long-term savings gain when it comes to energy bills.” GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN010

CHARITY CASE

The Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity has provided £1.13 million of charitable services last year 2019 saw a 56 per cent increase in demand for the Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity’s services through its 24/7 Construction Industry Helpline. The number of construction families needing well-being and financial support rose to 2,616 with a total of £703,641 of charitable giving to support them. Mental health continues to feature heavily with £411,962 spent on the charity’s Education and Training Programme with a project managed on behalf of the CITB training 300 Mental Health First Aid Instructors, who in turn have trained over 3,000 Mental Health First Aiders to provide ‘boots on the ground’ support for our construction workforce. Just over £21,000 has been invested in innovation, specifically on the Construction Industry Helpline App which provides vital information, advice and guidance on a variety of wellbeing issues. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN011

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IN SICKNESS AND IN HEALTH

WORKS WONDERS

©Thunderstock/Adobestock

Keep calm and keep working: UK construction workers reluctant to pull sickie

More than two thirds of UK workers avoid taking sick days and still go into work when feeling unwell. These worrying figures could imply construction workers feel pressured to attend work when injured or sick. “However, that’s not to say taking a sick day should be seen as a weakness or a lack of commitment. Taking time out of a construction job to recover from injury or illness is integral to the productivity and growth of the industry,” claims Matthew Jenkins, CEO at Mitrefinch. “The fact that more than two thirds of UK workers admit going to work when feeling sick is a serious cause for concern.” FOR THE FULL RESULTS OF THE RESEARCH: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN012

Anyone with an interest in historic building conservation is invited to go behind the scenes for a rare tour of the Bulmer Brick and Tile Company Situated in Sudbury in Suffolk, Bulmer Brick and Tile Company is one of only a handful of surviving traditional brickworks in the country. On 27 March 2020 the tour participants will be able to see how traditional bricks are handmade, including methods of making, drying and firing in a traditional kiln. This will be followed by a guided tour of Bury St Edmunds where you’ll discuss the conservation and repair of historic brickwork. The tour is organised by Place Services. FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN013

BOXING CLEVER

Keen to give something back to their local community the PipeSnug team is working with a boxing gym near to the company’s base. Running since 2004 Hockwell Ring Amateur Boxing Club (HRABC) in Luton is run by local residents. The club’s central aim is to get local young people actively involved in sport. PB recently visited the club to find out more about why PipeSnug has got involved: PipeSnug director Chris Burdett told us: “I am from the Hockwell Ring area and I love boxing. The club are doing some great things in this community and we wanted to give something back." Whilst we were at the gym we received some boxing training from the HRABC team (pictured) and even got in the ring with one of the club’s founding members, Kay Prosper, the English Champion at SuperLightweight. Kay is defending his title on March 7th at Dunstable Conference Centre in an event promoted by Hi-Rize Promotions, which is being sponsored by PipeSnug. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN014 FOR MORE INFORMATION ON PIPESNUG VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN015

VAN OF THE MOMENT

The Van Insurer reveals the nation’s most popular light commercial vehicle according to its own insurance quotes from 2019 With more vans on the road than ever before, The Van Insurer has analysed its quote data from last year to identify its Most Popular Vans of 2019. Unsurprisingly, the Transit continues to reign supreme with a third of quotes processed related to Ford’s popular load carrier, with the average insurance premium coming in at £1,288.95. Next up was the Vauxhall Vivaro followed by the Ford Transit Connect, with the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter coming in at number four. TO VIEW THE FULL LISIT VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN016

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If something is troubling you, or if you have any other comments on the world of building, let’s hear it. @PB_mag

@probuildermag

‘COURT’ IN A TRAP

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W www.probuildermag.co.uk

YOUR LETTERS... ...problems solved

SCREED LIGHTENING

PB: We’re sorry to hear you are having such a stressful time. We have heard of some difficult customers over the years, but this clearly takes things to a whole new level. As you will appreciate it is very difficult for us to hand out legal advice without being party to all the facts. It does, unfortunately, sound as if it may end up in court, and you may well need the services of a good solicitor, but our advice would be, as a starting point – and before you go to the potential expense of engaging legal council – to contact your local Citizens’ Advice Bureau. There is one in every major town and they have experience in a lot of areas. Good luck and let us know how you get on.

I’ve been using rotary laser levels for years, but have generally hired them when needed. I’ve come to the conclusion that it would probably be better to actually invest in one myself but I’m not sure whether to go for a red or green laser? The latter does seem more expensive. Steve Keen, via email

PB: Whilst it is true that a green rotary laser is pricier, the human eye is far more receptive to that particular wavelength of light, and it appears much brighter as a consequence. As with any investment in new equipment, you’ll need to think very carefully about the kind of work you’ll be doing. If, for instance, it’s liable to be used in more substantial indoor spaces then the advantage of a more visible beam will certainly be noticed.

offering specific courses on anhydrite. Visit www.rdr.link for more information.

GOING LIVE! I was at Professional Builder Live at Ally Pally the end of January and found it a very useful day out. I’ve been to a few trade shows before, but none of them seemed to cater for small builders, and to be honest I’ve ended up regretting taking the time out from

the job to attend. With the offers on tools, and hands-on demonstrations, this one was certainly worth it, though. I actually work on my own for much of the day so it was nice to speak to some fellow builders as well. Richard Trenchbowl, Enfield

PB: We’re glad you enjoyed the event, and there will be further Professional Toolfair and Professional Builder Live shows through 2020. FOR TOOLFAIR DATES VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN017

LIVE!

FOR PROFESSIONAL BUILDER LIVE DATES VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN018

14 MARCH 2020 PROFESSIONAL BUILDER

©alfexe/AdobeStock

I have recently finished an extension to a property in Surrey. Unfortunately, my relationship with my clients turned sour. The customer had only Through our extensive manufacturer network, provided a basic set of Professional Builder has access to some of the best drawings, with no real technical brains in the industry. If we don’t know the specification, and then tried to push for more answer to a building-related problem ourselves, we and more upgrades to almost certainly know someone who does. materials. The lady of the Professional Builder, Regal House, Regal Way, Watford, Herts, WD24 4YF. house was particularly pushy, leading to subcontractors walking off site and quite a bit of stress. At this time we did not know that the clients were not only I’ve been hearing quite a bit about anhydrite filming our every move but screeds, and they do seem to be getting more also recording our popular, but we’ve only ever laid traditional sand conversations. Regrettably, and cement. Is there anywhere I can find out more some of the younger guys about them? had, in what they thought Justin Hooper, Abbey Wood, London SE2 were private conversations, made some uncomplimentary PB: It’s true that anhydrite screeds are becoming remarks about the lady, thus commonplace, and this gypsum-based solution causing more aggravation when she has a number of advantages over sand and studied the footage. We have completed the cement. They are, for instance, self-levelling, job, but the clients have not paid in full, and relatively easy to lay, and with minimum have decided to make a financial claim for shrinkage. There are, however, points that need stress through the County Court. I am led to to be considered when subsequently tiling onto believe that, although the initial recording was them, with misjudgements in drying time an oft not illegal, now they have tried to gain reported cause of failure. As well as that a layer of financially by using these recordings, it is now surface laitance may well form as the material illegal. Does Professional Builder think I am cures and this will need to be sanded off. If you’re within my rights to send a solicitor’s letter or ever unsure of any new practise then should I take the matter up with the police? manufacturer training is always a good place to Anon start, and a number of companies are now

GETTING THE GREEN LIGHT

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To highlight the DIY disasters and bodge jobs that you, our readers and our online community, are called in to fix, we are inviting you to send in photos of the worst examples that you come across. We’ll be publishing the most shocking jobs on this page in every issue – and we’ll be updating the DI-WHY? page on our website every week. And we’ll send out a limited edition DI-WHY? sticker for every one we use.

Jamie Maguire, on Faceb ook, sent us this beauty

this in to us and Reader William Ellis emailed ly and I thought it ent rec this said: ‘I came across Y? page in your may be worthy of the DI-WH wonderful publication

this tagged us in on ny e K l ie an . reveal book, D Also on Face ‘I’m not thin coating the : id sa !’ and Why would I?

@axiombuilder on Tw

itter

is and said: k sent us th o o b ce a F n o !’ John Fenton t uncovered this mess ‘Jus

SHARE YOUR PICS!

This one was sent to us on Ins tagram from @thefaffer_diy, who said: ‘I’ll never understand why people paint door hinges and the screws!’

please send your photos to pb@hamerville.co.uk or tag us on Facebook , Twitter or Insta gram. To follow the campaign online go to www.probuildermag.co.uk or visit www.rdr,link/BN019

@probuilderonline

@PB_mag

@probuildermag

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Professional

FIGHTING

TOOL THEFT

Campaign

TOGETHER

Developed by a builder, the ToolWatch web-based app hopes to restore stolen property to its rightful owners, and deter crime in the process. Professional Builder’s Lee Jones finds out more.

WATCH AND LEARN

t is estimated that somewhere in the UK, a van is broken into every 23 minutes, and for the victims the frustrations are manifold. Insurance companies that find ever more creative pretexts for not paying out, vehicle security that is not fit for purpose, and a police force which lacks the resources to confront the criminal fraternity are just some of the laments. That was certainly the experience of one Hertfordshire-based builder when one of his vans was targeted, and he was relieved of tools worth more than £8,000. “It took just a day for the police to email me and tell me the case was closed,” recalls Alan Brett. “Following that, the insurance company then informed me that, because I owned three different vehicles, I couldn’t prove that the tools were actually in the one that had been broken into.” Suitably inspired to find a solution, the proprietor of Absolute Building Structures conceived of an idea to bring builders together in thwarting the thieves, and the result is the ToolWatch App. More than eighteen months in development, the web-based app allows subscribers to set up a profile, including their picture and contact details, and log all their tools by serial number, make and

18 MARCH 2020 PROFESSIONAL BUILDER

model. Not only that, but if you are unfortunate enough to be the victim of a crime, it is possible to report it on the app, with all the necessary information, and those details will be relayed to the police. the ToolWatch App will then create a crime reference number, and those tools will be listed on the site as stolen. “If you’re a police officer, or a builder that’s been offered a cut price drill at a car boot sale, you can use the app to

check if it’s from the proceeds of crime,” enthuses Alan. “Not only that, but the profile picture of the owner should tell you exactly who the goods belong to.” Every builder needs the right tools to do their job, and our over-stretched law enforcement professionals are certainly no different. That’s why Alan was adamant that he needed the input of the police at a very early stage. “There are 43 different constabularies across the country, but to work with any one of them we needed to achieve Secured by Design accreditation,” he explains. “That in turn

Together, we can do our bit to fight tool theft!

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#fightingtooltheft

Have your say at probuildermag.co.uk @PB_mag

www.facebook.com/probuilderonline

demanded we work with BSI (British Standards Institute), and we are now the first app to have gone through that process.” County lines crimes are now a well-documented problem and tool theft is far from exempt, but here again the ToolWatch App can play its part. “If a thief stole from a van in Luton, for example, and then travelled just three miles down the road to Hertfordshire, they could be pulled over and there would be no record of the crime with that constabulary. Our database is designed to operate nationally, which means that no matter where they’re found your equipment can be repatriated to you. That’s why the police are very keen for builders to make use of this service, because they simply don’t have anything like this at present.” The features and benefits don’t end there because, whilst simple to use and navigate, the app has been designed with a number of related functions. A visual indication that the contents of a vehicle are protected by the ToolWatch App is provided by a sticker on the van, which itself acts as a deterrent. Not only that, but by recording proof of ownership, the site will equally operate as a housekeeping tool. In the event of an insurance claim, for instance, the ToolWatch App allows builders to keep a secure record of serial numbers, whilst photos of receipts can also be downloaded and subsequently supplied as evidence. For a yearly subscription fee, users can register up to 100 items, which will more than cover any small builder’s requirements, and if any of those tools are sold on by the rightful owner it’s very easy to record that information as well. “The figures for tool theft are getting steadily worse and there is a perception amongst tradespeople that protecting themselves is a hopeless task,” concludes Alan. “What we want to do through the ToolWatch App is bring tradespeople together in order to help themselves, and give the police the informed view that will help them stop the thieves.” LEARN MORE ABOUT THE TOOLWATCH APP VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN020

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SPECIAL REPORT

S U S T A IN A B IL IT Y IN IT IA T IV E

Professional Builder reports on an alternative to traditional concrete kerbs which are claimed to offer a more environmentallyfriendly solution, whilst also reducing the potential for accidents on site

KERB APPEAL ealth and safety, in tandem with sustainability considerations, are two areas of key importance for the building industry. Regular lifting and carrying of considerable loads are a common cause of musculoskeletal problems in construction workers — for example, the HSE reported an average of 2,310 workers per 100,000 in the UK building industry suffering work-related musculoskeletal disorders between 20152018. With concrete kerb stones in particular difficult to carry manually, Durakerb has developed a lighter alternative, composed of 88 per cent recycled polymer. Each Durakerb unit is made of the equivalent of 182 recycled plastic bottles and weighs only 6kgs, allowing it to be cut with a hand saw and installed manually. In contrast, a traditional

concrete kerb unit can be more than 90 per cent heavier and requires strict assessment during installation — as wellmaintained lifting equipment is necessary. Additionally, there can be further implications regarding the use of power tools to cut the concrete to the correct size. Similarly, the cutting of concrete kerbs generates a high level of risk to airborne silica — the HSE’s cancer burden study estimates that 600 people die a year from lung cancer associated with exposure to respirable crystalline

silica (RCS), with 450 of these occurring from exposures in the construction sector. Recycled plastic kerbs, on the other hand, contain no carcinogenic RCS, meaning workers are safe from lung conditions. Furthermore, in addition to preventing injury-related lost working days, Durakerb says that its products are also far quicker to install, reducing working time on live networks by up to 75 per cent.

Durakerb in numbers...

400,000

72,800,000

21,600

11,215

UNITS INSTALLED NATIONWIDE

RECYCLED BOTTLES, CAPS & CLOSURES

TONNE REDUCTION IN WEIGHT

TONNES OF CARBON SAVED

PROFESSIONAL BUILDER MARCH 2020 21

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SPECIAL REPORT SUSTAINABILITY

Part of the Econpro Group, a specialist group of companies that “transform waste and by-product into sustainable products and solutions”, Durakerb reports that it has been “championing a more sustainable future for 11 years”. In terms of distribution, it operates a policy through which “nearly all our transactions in the UK go through merchants directly or indirectly through our stockists”. The company has recently announced the installation of its 400,000th kerb in the UK, preventing the equivalent of 72 million plastic bottles from going to landfill. It also lays claim to delivering a 73 per cent reduction in carbon emissions per full load when compared to concrete, calculating it has saved approximately 12,000,000kgs of emitted carbon through production (in comparison to a precast concrete alternative) and the removal of 1,000 articulated vehicles to transport due to its lightweight nature.

“The installation of Durakerb is safe and easy for workers as the product’s lightweight nature and absence of carcinogenic silica (can) prevent costly and dangerous accidents at work.”

Phil Sutton, Managing Director at Econpro, said: “The installation of Durakerb is safe and easy for workers as

the product’s lightweight nature and absence of carcinogenic silica can prevent costly and dangerous accidents at work. Since its inception, Durakerb has long been recognised for its safety benefits having been awarded the Institution of Highways & Transportation Health & Safety at Work Award back in 2008. “With a renewed focus on plastics waste looking for sustainable markets, we believe further adoption of recycled polymer kerbing solutions can offer a viable outlet for thousands of tonnes of waste plastics in the UK every year. We’re proud to be at the forefront of the development of these products as we drive toward carbon neutrality within the UK in 2050.” LEARN MORE INFORMATION ON DURAKERB BY VISITING: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN021

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SPECIAL REPORT

©Eugene/Adobestock

BUILDERS’ VEHICLES

All the ‘E’ in Shanghai is certainly full of surprises and none more so than the discovery that it is now the key manufacturing hub of one of Britain’s most iconic commercial vehicle motoring brands.

he journey, according to an old Chinese proverb, is always more important than the destination and, in automotive terms, they don’t come much more intriguing than the one made by British commercial vehicle brand LDV during the past twenty five years. With a history dating back to even before the start of the 19th century, the first van offering was manufactured in the West Midlands in 1993, and it quickly established a loyal following amongst die hard supporters of all things British made. However, it’s fair to say that by the early 2000s and the incarnation of the MAXUS, the road ahead was increasingly bumpy, and in the face of dramatically increased European competition, and more technically advanced manufacturing processes, the brand disappeared into its own seemingly bottomless pothole. A brief flirtation with a Russian manufacturer quickly followed, but that again quite literally soon ran out of GAZ. Meanwhile, in China, the SAIC motor company hadn’t risen to become the seventh largest vehicle manufacturer in the world without an eye for an opportunity, and in 2011 they acquired the LDV production and image rights, and set about transforming the MAXUS brand into a global player in both cars and commercial vehicles.

at the NEC Birmingham THE CV show takes place the Harris team on April 28th and 29th and l you more! would be delighted to tel

The new eDeliver 3

24 MARCH 2020 PROFESSIONAL BUILDER

This remarkable turnaround in fortunes did not go unnoticed by Dublin-based Harris Group who, with more than fifty years’ experience in the commercial vehicle market, were keen in adding the revitalised LDV offering to an already impressive vehicle distribution portfolio to businesses across Ireland and the UK. That was in 2015 and, since then, the Harris Group has got fully behind the brand, with a committed after sales service and more than 30 dealerships signed up to sell the V80 large panel van, which also comes as a dropside, tipper and Luton, and more recently the all-electric version – EV 80. Professional Builder has subsequently driven several variants of the vehicles and, whilst clearly showing its age, and some way behind cutting edge design sophistication, performance-wise the V80’s are more than capable work horses at an on the road price very few competitors can match. All this has been made possible, of course, by a not inconsiderable investment by the parent company from its headquarters in Shanghai, where one factory alone employs five thousand people and has a production capacity of 200,000 vehicles per annum. Along with a small press contingent from the UK, Professional Builder was recently invited on a whistle stop tour of

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The new eDeliver 3

the facilities to see for ourselves the unrelenting drive for “Intelligent Mobility” which underpins the company’s ambitions, and to get an insight into significant new product development, which is likely to have a major impact on global markets over the next few years. To put the sheer scale of the SAIC MAXUS operation in some perspective, total sales last year alone exceeded a mind boggling seven million units, comprising MPV, SUV, passenger vehicles, vans and pick-ups, making it number one in China, and enjoying a rank of 39 among the world’s Fortune Global 500 companies.

Electrification

At its core is an uncompromising commitment to launch several new products each year, and with a population of 26 million in Shanghai alone (larger than the whole of Australia) it certainly has a lot to go for, although no one is left in any doubt that ambitions lie much further afield, with sales in almost 50 different countries and rising. Much of the current focus is on electrification of vehicles across the board, and the evidence suggests that the company is making significant inroads in Europe, thanks in part to leading edge lithium-ion battery technology, which can achieve 80 per cent recharge capacity in just 45 The new Deliver 9

minutes, and comes with a 100,000km five year battery warranty. In fact, in Norway, the country with the highest population of electric vehicles in the world, the EV80 is now second in the local large electric light commercial vehicle segment, whilst the Australians have made the conventional V80 offering the most popular of LCVs in its sector. It has boasted approval from OLEV (Office for Low Emission Vehicles) since 2017, whilst the vehicle also qualifies for subsidies from the British Government. Its impressive range, quick charging times, and minimal load compromises has also seen the EV 80 notch up a number of prestigious industry awards in recent years, including the British Green Fleet awards for 2019. To meet the growing practical and legislative demands for green energy in Europe, the company are planning to introduce into Europe two new significantly enhanced electric commercial vehicles over the next few months. This follows the unveiling of the V80’s smaller brother, the EV 30 fully electric zero emission light duty van at the CV show last year. For 2020 it will be badged as an LDV e Deliver 3 and will be joined by the Deliver 9, a timely and welcome upgrade on the existing V80 large panel van. A pure electric version of this is also expected to follow in due course. Potential UK customers are likely to get their first glimpse of the new vehicles at the CV show in Birmingham in April but what we can report is that, for the first time in the industry, a lightweight aluminium body frame, plus some unusual composite plastic parts, have been used, reducing the weight of the vehicle by 220kg. To meet the demand for extra cargo space, the internal width of the e Deliver 3 is a market leading 1,706 mm, increasing the volume by 5 per cent, with a maximum loading space of 6.3m3 and payload of 1,000kg. Coupled with the lowest floor height of its kind, users can load and unload items in double quick time. Available in short and long wheel bases, the range is around a very respectable 174 miles. Sadly, it seems we will may have to wait a little longer to get our hands on the company’s impressive T70 double cab pick-up truck offering, which is reported to already be the fourth most popular in its home market just sixteen months after

its release, and has achieved sales in excess of 10,000 units in a number of overseas markets outside of Europe.

Smart Spider

In fact, the same high standard of design and sophisticated interaction between the vehicle and the driver is apparent across the whole MAXUS range, and can be summed up in four key company philosophies – electrification, interconnectivity, sharing and international. There is also recognition of a need to appeal to a younger audience who want to individualise their driving experience and, under the C2B banner, there is an opportunity to select a vehicle down to the minutest detail within three minutes of visiting a dealership or going online. At present it is restricted to users in China, Australia and New Zealand, but the company is committed to bringing what it calls the Smart Spider concept to the wider world. And, given their impressive track record so far, who would doubt them? In fact, by 2025 SAIC is set to launch some 20 new energy models and expects by then, the annual sales of these vehicles to account for 40 per cent of all purchases. It remains to be seen whether the UK will eventually fall into line with its MAXUS global branding philosophy, and drop the LDV name altogether, although for the moment it still resonates uniquely with British and Australian van users and there is clearly some understandable nervousness in going the whole hog. As it is, if the company remains committed to retaining some of the best aspects of the current LDV offering within all of the new models, such as a highly competitive pricing and market leading warranty packages, then 2020 really could be the year when its vison for global domination truly starts to take focus. It may have only been a fleeting trip but there is certainly much to take away from our Chinese automotive banquet! The new T70 pick-up

Watch this space! LEARN MORE ABOUT SAIC VEHICLES VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN022

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’ T N I ‘PA

NO STOPPING US NOW!

Dulux Trade is giving away 100, 2.5 litre tins of its Dulux Trade Diamond Matt paint to help trade professionals achieve longer-lasting, brilliant results. The upgraded formulation, released in 2019, gives a smoother, more even finish that reduces the risk of flashing and picture framing. The emulsion now also features anti-fade technology, which protects colour pigments to slow down the effects of UV rays and pollutants for truly long-lasting colour. Part of the Dulux Trade Diamond range, it is 50 times more durable than standard trade emulsions, with protection against scrubs, scuffs and stains, to stand the test of daily wear and tear in high

footfall areas, such as stairwells and hallways; as well as stain repellent technology that mimics the water-resistant

! IN W O T E C N A H C R U O Y Enter the competition to be in with a chance to win a 2.5L can in Pure Brilliant White. If you are not one of the selected winners, the upgraded formulation is also available now in stores nationwide. All you have to do to be in with a chance of winning is explain in no more than 50 words why you want to try the new formulation of Dulux Trade Diamond Matt? TO ENTER: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN023

26 MARCH 2020 PROFESSIONAL BUILDER

COMPETITION Over £3,000 worth of paint must be won!

Win a 2.5l Can of Dulux Trade Diamond Matt!

properties of leaves to repel wet stains, making the paint easier to clean. Diamond Matt was developed through extensive testing in the world-class AkzoNobel research and development centre in Slough, with expert chemists running more than 1,000 tests on the paint to ensure that it performs as effectively as possible for professional decorators. It has also been rigorously tested to be able to withstand 10,000 scrub cycles, which equates to six hours of continuous scrubbing, without the finish being compromised to ensure it offers ultimate durability. To ensure it truly meet the needs of decorators’ day-to-day jobs, AkzoNobel’s in-house professional decorators put the improved formulation through comprehensive application testing in a purpose-built painting laboratory, before real-world testing with professional decorators at the Dulux Academy and with contractors on sites throughout the UK. Feedback from decorators since launch has been overwhelmingly positive. After testing the paints, 9 in 10 decorators said they were an improvement on the previous formulations and nearly all of those who gave feedback (94 per cent) said they would recommend the products to others. FOR MORE INFORMATION ON DULUX TRADE DIAMOND MATT VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BN024

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Professional

BUILDER’S

We give our verdict on new products in our unique site tests, but now we want to give you the chance to try them – AND KEEP THEM – for yourself! All you have to do to enter the free draws is simply just type in www.rdr.link followed by the unique code.

! L L A R O F E E FR 10

HOODIES

TOUPRET TOUPRET JOINT, SKIM & FILL HOODIE Toupret’s new Joint, Skim & Fill range is designed to help you achieve great results in less time, allowing you to move on to the next job quicker. For plasterboard jointing, skimming and filling to a great finish with one coat, there’s no shrinkage, no need to spot prime and easy sanding. The range also includes Quick Dry products that are ready to paint in three hours and Ready To Use fillers that can be applied straight from the tub. We’re giving away 10 Joint, Skim & Fill branded hoodies (Size L). FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN025

GOODY BAGS BOSCH MEASURING TOOLS

MARCH 2020 PROFESSIONAL BUILDER

CROWN TRADE CLEAN EXTREME Have you tried Crown Trade’s new Ultimate Opacity Clean Extreme Stain Resistant Scrubbable Matt? Not only does it offer fantastic scrubbability and excellent flow, the new formulation also benefits from greater opacity, coverage and a superior finish. It’s available on the range’s Anti-Bacterial and Mould Inhibiting matt paints too — look out for the ‘Ultimate Opacity’ seal on the cans. There’ll be no more ‘paint’ misbehavin’ if you choose Crown and, with Professional Builder’s ‘Free-for-All’, you can do just that absolutely free! FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN026

Easy to Enter!er before

than ev It’s now easier titions on our mpe co e to enter th e collected all th ve e’ W website. , ge one handy pa competitions on have to enter ly meaning you on s once! ta your de il BN029 www.rdr.link/

The Bosch Measuring Tools goody bags are filled with a variety of handy items for all tradespeople. The first freebie is a Bosch level keyring, a simple but effective gift for anyone needing to quickly check how level their work is. The branded Measuring Tools notepad and pen is great for any on site day to day note taking. The goody bag also includes a USB stick, portable charger and mini speaker helping you through the long days with an excellent phone battery and music at arm’s length. The last item in the goody bag is our very own branded navy polo shirt with a comfortable fit for any type of day, available in S, M, L, XL or XXL. The mighty Bosch have got it in the bag and so could you! FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN027

X 5L PAINT CANS

KNIVES

HULTAFORS TOOLS’ SNAP OFF KNIFE The SRP Snap-Off Knife is an ergonomic, robust knife, ideal for cutting materials like plasterboard, insulation, aqua panels and wood. Designed with a rubberised grip to make it suitable for cutting materials that need more power, it’s also tapered for control, and a better view of the cutting area. It can hold a dispenser that takes three blades and is made of durable polycarbonate plastic with a steel core. There’s a 1mm thick blade rail for additional stability and its overall symmetric design makes it ideal for left or right-hand use. It also comes with a set of replacement blades. If you make the cut in our giveaways this month this versatile tool from Hultafors could be yours. FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN028

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X (25 PACK OF REGS & 25 PACK OF XLS)

20 PACKS OF FIXINGS SPACE-PLUG Invented by a former kitchen fitter Space-Plug is the perfect solution to fast, simple and professional fitting. Orignially designed to eliminate annoying L brackets in kitchen fitting, it’s since found uses for so much more. Wardrobes, bookcases, office furniture, WCs, as a stand-off, as a leg, in a wall, wherever you find a use! If you carry wall plugs … get some Space-Plugs! Enter the space race with our ‘Free-for-All’. Each of our 10 winners will receive both a 25 pack of the regular size Space Plugs and a 25 pack of the XLs.

SURFACE MOUNTED SLIDING DOOR

SYSTEM ECLISSE VETROGLIDE TECH Add an Eclisse Vetroglide Tech surface mounted sliding door system to your next project. It’s perfect for a utility, pantry or living area where a hinged door is impractical and takes up too much space. A complete wall mounted sliding door system manufactured from top quality stainless steel with hangers including a satin glass door and a stainless-steel bar handle for a contemporary look. Professional Builder is once more opening all the right doors for you. Get involved in another great round of giveaways!

FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN030

FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN032

10 3

WORK PLATFORMS

WERNER 79025 ALUMINIUM PRO WORK PLATFORM The Werner lightweight 79025 Aluminium PRO Work Platform is designed for comfort and ease of use. The Easy-Grab handle in the centre of the platform allows for convenient transportation, whilst the slim fold dual locking legs mean that the work platform closes to a compact depth of 8cm and is completely flat when folded. The oversized platform also features a large slip-resistant work surface and non-marking, slip-resistant feet. Find a solid platform with Werner and Professional Builder. FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN031

PACKS OF 10 DRYRODS

SAFEGUARD EUROPE DRYROD DAMP-PROOFING RODS Safeguard Europe’s Dryrod damp-proofing rods are made from advanced polymers, impregnated with a silane/siloxane material to form a DPC in brick, coursed stone, rubble infill and cavity walls. The 180mm long rods are simply inserted into 12mm drilled holes at 120mm centres along continuous horizontal mortar lines. Not only does this method ensure deep penetration, but it also delivers the exact dose in each hole without spillage or mess. A safe bet for damp proofing, we have 10 packs of these dampproofing rods to give away. FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN033

THERE’S WAS NOT ENOUGH L’ AL RFO ERE ‘F S BUILDER’ IF PROFESSIONAL MPETITIONS ON GIVEAWAYS AND CO E IV US CL EX OF ST ALSO A WHOLE HO FOR YOUR ILDERMAG.CO.UK BU RO .P W W W T ECK OU OUR WEBSITE – CH ANYWHERE U WON’T FIND THEM YO R BE EM M RE D AN CHANCE TO WIN – WEBSITE. ELSE BUT ON OUR

PROFESSIONAL BUILDER MARCH 2020 29

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roofing, flooring & insulation NO. 6 IN THE SERIES

t h g Ri

E S R OU

GOT IT COVERED ne of the major motivations for any manufacturer to invest in training is to protect the reputation of its products – because install it incorrectly and the system itself could well take the blame. For precisely that reason, Permaroof, the UK’s largest distributor of the Firestone RubberCover EPDM roofing system, is a company that insists its approved installers do things its way. Indeed, its courses are now more than well established and, in the twenty years it has been training the roofing trades, more than 5,000 tradespeople and counting have now benefitted from its instruction and guidance. Given that Permaroof’s MD and Chairman was himself a roofer, it is hardly surprising that his company wants to provide all the support it can to the end user – and champion the rubber roof concept in the process. A well-known product it may be, but the advantages of EPDM is still finding new followers, and taking market share from traditional bitumen solutions into the bargain. Its cold application eliminates the health and safety implications of torch-on alternatives. Its resistance to temperature differentiation, ozone and UV radiation makes for an extended lifespan – with a

Get the rubber stamp from Firestone EPDM roofing experts, Permaroof by attending one of the company’s training courses. Professional Builder’s Lee Jones finds out more. 20 year warranty and over 50 year life expectancy on offer – whilst its flexibility and light weight make for straightforward installation. Add to that a perfect marriage with green roofs, or PV (photovoltaic) solar roofing and the case starts to become compelling. For the

roofer, of course, any new technique is itself a business opportunity and, given that only tradespeople approved and trained by Permaroof can offer that two decade guarantee on an installation, embracing a new skill can quickly score on the balance sheet.

Course of Action

The Permaroof EPDM course attracts a mix of competencies, from those who have only experienced two or three rubber roof jobs, to the more knowledgeable. Whilst the product is designed as a one-piece system – with seamless sheets up to 15.24m in width and 61m long available – the devil really is in the detail. Our trainer, Rob Hunt, can command more than 30 years of rubber roof experience, and his main mission for the day is to initiate his learners in the art of ensuring a waterproof finish around roof furniture, as well as the likes of terminating at brickwork with the use of wall flashing trims, or at the fascia with the supplied back plates. All of these will present their own challenges but, once mastered, this is a system that has speed of installation and longevity in situ very much in its favour.

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roofing, flooring & insulation

The floor mounted flat roof rig in the well-equipped and purpose-built training centre at the company’s Derbyshire head office and distribution centre features an OSB (Oriented Strand Board) timber deck, a material which is recommended in order to achieve smoother joints and a superior finish. Whilst there are two versions of EPDM, the Standard Grade at 1.14mm thick, and a Premium at 1.52mm, they are both laid in exactly the same way – the only difference being a warranty that rises to 25 years on the latter. A warm roof requires insulation and subsequent overboarding, but in either case Sterling board is the answer. An EPDM Rubber Roof installation is a two-man job and trainees are split into pairs for the practical elements. Any building job is rather like driving a car – you might think you’re a master behind the wheel but bad habits are stealthy creatures, and the years can see them creep in unawares. Even the most experienced might benefit from a reintroduction with best practice, not to mention any new developments in the system itself. Make use of your customer’s lawn to roll the rubber out to relax whilst you’re doing your prep work on the roof, for instance, and ensure that you are aware of just how to handle the adhesives and

32 MARCH 2020 PROFESSIONAL BUILDER

fixings needed to ensure a water-tight finish. For the main lengths, contact adhesive needs to be applied on both surfaces – board and rubber – but, as a water-based system, it should only be laid in an ideal temperature of 5ºC or more. It is instant grab, which offers no wriggle room in laying, and should be applied in the centre working outwards, before brushing the surface to achieve full contact. The EPDM concept originated in the US, and has been developed to work with a specific and complementary class of adhesives, and for angle changes – such as around elevations – a contact bonding adhesive is the answer. The most critical areas will always be where tape is required and a large part of the course is dedicated to this aspect of a job. None of the Firestonesupplied tapes will adhere to the EPDM without the application of a primer, which is first brush-applied to the rubber and allowed to go touch dry. The amount of equipment required to install an EPDM roof is minimal but a 50mm seam roller – with the addition of 5mm penny roller for finer detailing – will do the job of fully adhering the tape to the primer-coated area of rubber. Provided the technique is mastered, the seaming technology of the tape is well

proven, and course attendees are taken through a full range of applications, whether it be circular dressing tape for use around an external corner detail, or directly applying primer to brickwork and adhering to brick, blockwork or lead – special adhesives are even now becoming available that allows application to tiles. Perhaps the most challenging aspect of the day for attendees is pipe detailing and considerable time is spent ensuring that the class is fully conversant with the approved method. External and internal corners are also addressed, and in every instance the aim is to ensure a water tight seal. Firestone has been utilised in major projects where the material is fully submerged in water – so get the installation right and the vagaries of the British climate will present no problem. Once the course is complete Permaroof prides itself on the amount of support it provides installers in the field. Not only that but the training team can also undertake courses at other locations, whether that’s on site or at a builders’ merchant. LEARN MORE ABOUT PERMAROOF TRAINING VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN0034

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roofing, flooring & insulation

MAKING A PITCH Roof systems manufacturer, Marley explains how to create the perfect low pitch roof on an extension

Thanks to the permanent relaxation in planning laws, this year many builders and roofers will find they are working on more single storey extensions. While homeowners often prefer the look of pitched roofs for this type of project, they do need to be carefully designed with both aesthetics and weatherproofing in mind. As well as trying to match existing roof tiles, contractors will usually have to create a lower pitch roof for single storey extensions, due to the position of first floor windows, which can be restrictive and has implications for water run-off.

Top tips for a perfect low pitch extension

1 If the tiles you want to use donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t go down to the minimum pitch you need, consult the manufacturer for alternative options. We have a selection of low pitch tiles that can be used to match a traditional clay, slate or concrete aesthetic (see our pitch checker). This includes the brand-new Mendip 12.5, a concrete interlocking tile which has been designed for extension projects. Its special weatherproofing channels mean that it can be used down to a very low 12.5 degree pitch.

While the planning laws have been relaxed, you still need to match the new roof to the roofing material on the original property, and in some designated areas, such as conservation areas, the homeowner will still need to get planning permission.

2 3

Never be tempted to use a tile below the manufacturerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s recommended minimum pitch, even by half a degree, as it could invalidate your warranty! If you have to install at a lower pitch, then seek manufacturer advice as a weatherproof sub roof system may be required.

If you need to match in with existing clay tiles, there are some very good low pitch options on the market. For example, our Melodie clay interlocking tiles have a single pantile profile but can be used on pitches as low as 12.5 degrees, making them particularly suited to extension projects. We also offer two other interlocking clay tiles which can be used down to 17.5 degrees, the Lincoln pantile and Maxima double roman. Mendip

34 MARCH 2020 PROFESSIONAL BUILDER

Melodie

In low pitch projects, because driving rain has to be considered, natural slate can be limited by geography. This means that pitches of 20 degrees can be achieved with natural slate, but it requires increased head laps and therefore more slates, with the consequences of additional weight. However, there are some very good slate effect tiles that can replicate the slate look at a lower pitch for extension work. For example, our Edgemere range of thinleading edge concrete slates give a slate look but are more cost effective and can be used down to pitches of 17.5 degrees without geographical restrictions. They come in a variety of colours and textures, including Riven, to help contractors match the slate aesthetic they need.

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TECHNICAL TEAM TIPS â&#x20AC;&#x201C; NO 14

Mendip

Extensions still need to comply with Building Regulations and British Standards. Therefore, pitched roofs on extensions should be fixed according to BS 5534. You can get a free fixing specification for your project from our website. WWW.RDR.LINK/BN035

Consider using ventilation terminals if mechanical extract or soil vents are to terminate through the roof tiling on low pitch roof slopes. This will ensure minimum pitches of the chosen vents are achieved. Normal in-line contour vents can usually only be used down to a pitch of 20 degrees, so vents with cowls may be the best alternative as they will share the same minimum pitch as the tile. For low level roof space ventilation, continuous over fascia eaves vent systems can be used.

8 Melodie

A low pitch roof on an extension may have to deal with an increased amount of water coming from a larger roof above, so it needs to be designed carefully with consideration given to where the water run-off will be. FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE NEW LOW PITCH MENDIP VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN036

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roofing, flooring & insulation

U-WHAT?! Paul Trace from Stella Rooflight offers some guidance on the thermal performance (U-values) of rooflights and what to look out for in the specification process. ne of the most important elements of modern building materials is thermal performance, which is measured in terms of heat loss. In the construction industry this is commonly expressed as a U-value or even sometimes an R-value. U-value calculations will invariably be required early on in the building strategy stage as it provides an indication as to how much heat loss a building is likely to suffer upon completion. The products used in the build are normally required to be tested and a figure for each component given. One example of where this is an essential requirement is rooflights. Thermal transmittance (U-value) is measured in units of W/m²K which stands for Watts/metre square Kelvin. The lower the U-value the more efficient the construction is at keeping heat flow through the structure to a minimum. It is worth noting that it’s not just the building materials and products that have an impact on the thermal performance of a building, as both workmanship and installation standards can strongly affect the thermal transmittance. There are guidelines in the UK, set out in Building Regulations Approved Document Part L (Conservation of Fuel and Power), that give the maximum Uvalue that materials and structures are

allowed to have in a range of buildings, including domestic properties. It sets a national standard to ensure that homes must be built to a certain performance level of energy efficiency for both the reduction of carbon emissions and the reduction of residents’ heating bills.

Added Value

A U-value is one of the most difficult thermal measurements to calculate, and so it is important that any figures are produced using reliable software from a bona fide source. When it comes to rooflight suppliers providing U-value figures for their products, we all want the lowest possible number to prove that our rooflights give the best thermal performance, which ultimately reduces heat loss for our customers. In the rush to

be the best, it is not inconceivable that figures get a little massaged, so it is always best to ask for a copy of the test performance report to ensure that a) the figures are genuine and b) that the figures were produced in the correct way. Despite them being used in their millions across the country, you might be surprised to find out that there is no specific test for a rooflight. Instead rooflights are tested to BS EN ISO 100771:2017, which is a thermal performance test for windows, doors and shutters. So does this actually matter? Well, actually yes it does because most rooflights cannot be used in the same way as windows and this will result in a change to the U-value. For example, the pitch of the roof will change the thermal performance of your rooflight. However, the testing of rooflight performance is based on either a vertical (above 60 degrees) or horizontal (0 degree) pitch. Both of these positions are usually outside the maximum and minimum pitch that rooflight manufacturers recommend for their rooflight products. There is quite a bit of difference in the U-values given to rooflights at both ends of the scale. For example, our own Stella rooflight can achieve a U-value of 1.5 W/m²K in the horizontal position but this improves to 1.1 W/m²K when used above 60 degrees. Now when you ask most

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companies what the U-value is for their rooflight which figure do you think you will be given? This is why it is important to either ask for both figures or to request data to support the figures quoted. The design of a rooflight is also critical to the thermal performance. Most modern rooflights are produced from thermally broken aluminium, which is then clad internally with wood to provide very good U-values. Whilst making the frames more thermally efficient, this approach also makes the rooflights chunky, which often results in them sticking several inches above the roofline and providing poor frame to glass ratios. It is not uncommon for some rooflight frames to make up over 40 per cent of its overall size, which ultimately means 40 per cent less light entering a building.

Glass Act

One of the easiest ways to lower a Uvalue on a window or rooflight is to increase the thickness of the glazing. A decent double glazed unit will give a centre pane value of 1.0W/m²K and a triple around 0.5W/m²K. Then, of course, there are some that offer quad glazing,

which reduces this figure further. However, it should also be noted that by reducing the Uvalue in this way, you will be significantly increasing the weight of the product, the cost and also the depth of the rooflight profile. If you are working on a Listed Building, or in a Conservation Area, then you will require a conservation rooflight design, which should sit completely flush with your roofline. If you are looking to use quad glazing or modern bulky rooflights to improve thermal performance then this will most certainly be to the detriment of the building’s aesthetics. There are a few exceptions relating to the thermal requirements in certain buildings, and it is always a good idea to take professional advice should your project fall into one of the following categories: ●

●

Where the replacement roof windows are unable to meet the requirements because of the need to maintain the external appearance of the façade or the character of the building, replacement windows should meet a centre pane U-value of 1.2 W/m2K. Buildings which are; Listed in accordance with section 1 of the Planning (Listed Buildings and

Conservation Areas) Act 1990; In a conservation area designated in accordance with section 69 of that Act; or Included in the schedule of monuments maintained under section 1 of the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979; ●

Buildings which are; Used primarily or solely as places of worship; Standalone buildings with floor area less than 50m2; Carports; Temporary Building with a planned time of use less than 2 years.

In conclusion, despite the fact that the testing methods for obtaining a rooflight’s thermal performance could do with an overhaul, a U-value figure is very important when both choosing products and in the overall construction of your property. The lower the figure the more thermally efficient a product or building is and this can contribute to reducing heating costs and ultimately helps in the fight against global warming. It is also important that the figures provided are genuine and it is advisable to request proof that U-values being quoted are not only correct but are applicable for the application that you are using that product. Nowhere is this more important than rooflights because of the current way in which these products are tested.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON STELLA ROOFLIGHTS VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN037

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hought green roof installations were only for specialist contractors? Then think again, think green and think new business opportunities for the coming months. From domestic garage roofs to office developments, hard-to-reach areas on residential blocks, hospitals and city centre hotels, almost any flat roof can be considered for greening thanks to the introduction of modular green roof systems which are quick and easy to install. Go modular and there’s no need for the traditional roll-out build-up of root barrier, drainage layer, textile filter and growing medium. Instead, delivered to site will be plastic trays filled with growing medium and preplanted with sedum or wild flowers. Simply lay geotextile fleece on to the roof finish, place the trays and click together. Border pebbling completes the look. To coin a well-used phrase, job done (400m2 of it in one day for a two-man team is more than possible).

Modular Systems It is, quite literally, a growing market and one that British manufacturer Wallbarn has invested in heavily to develop its market-leading M-Tray solution. The Croydon-based business, which has been supplying specialist products to the construction industry for 40 years, is a pioneer of modular green roof systems. Its most recent success is a unique 100mm deep plastic cassette filled with scientifically developed substrate and carefully selected sedum and wildflower plants grown to maturity on its own farm in Hampshire. The modular approach offers a number of really valuable benefits, not least that most construction professionals are more than adequately equipped to carry out installations. It is, therefore, a great opportunity for building contractors to expand their domestic and commercial portfolios and meet client demand for more environmentally friendly buildings; green roofs provide additional insulation properties and are proven to improve air quality, absorb and slow down rainfall, provide urban cooling, prolong the life of the roof, increase biodiversity and support an array of wildlife.

GROW YOUR BUSINESS There are growing opportunities in the modular green roof market, according to Wallbarn So what do you need to know to get started? The first question: can the roof support the additional weight of the green roof? This must be answered by a structural engineer and is the first consideration for any green roof, modular or roll-out. M-Tray can be retrofitted onto the vast majority of existing roofs (the standard system weighs up to 120kg/m2 fully saturated). For new-build projects, the required structural integrity can be designed in. The design: simply calculate how many 500mm x 500mm MTray cassettes are required for the roof area to be greened together with the quantities of geotextile fleece and border pebbling. Wallbarn technical experts can assist, advise and draw up plans if required, which we find is particularly useful for first-time users of our product. We also provide on-going technical support.

The installation: The cassettes contain everything that the green roof requires, from built-in drainage to 100mm of specialist substrate and, of course, the plants (Wallbarn has just launched a native perennial wildflower option, allowing clients to enjoy a hardy, beautiful haven for pollinators).The clean and easily transportable pre-planted trays can be carried by hand and have even been passed through windows on hard-to-access roofs. They sit on a geotextile fleece which protects the existing roof/membrane and simply click together to form an instant green roof. A really important feature of modular green roofs is that the roof is future proofed because the cassettes can be lifted up at any time should access be required to the roof deck. The maintenance: Sedum plants are hardy and will tolerate extreme conditions – there are green roofs worldwide

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thriving in a wide variety of climactic conditions, some of them 75 years old or more. In exceptionally dry conditions it may be necessary to water the roof; some clients choose to install an irrigation system and apply slow release fertiliser for best year-round results. Technical considerations: Fire regulations require a hard border between vegetation and building walls and around features such as rooflights and fall arrest systems (consult the GRO Code for further details). The roof also

needs to be relatively level; M-Tray can accommodate slopes of up to 15° but we do not recommend going above 10° without anchor points or battens. Availability: Wallbarn offers year-round supply and often next day delivery direct (on orders placed before 2pm) or through one of our merchant partners. Thanks to technologically advanced modular solutions undertaking green roof

installations is no longer the preserve of specialist contractors. It is a win-win solution for building contractors – as well as offering clients large and small a fussfree green roof that looks great, encourages biodiversity and meets environmental agendas – it helps with planning applications and provides a new revenue stream for the contractor.

TAKE A LOOK AT A VIDEO OVERVIEW OF THE M-TRAY SYSTEM FROM WALLBARN BY VISITING: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN038

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A FOAM TRUTH Colin St John, Commercial Director at Freefoam Building Products, explains how all building professionals can take advantage of the company’s Registered Installer Scheme, and get the support package they deserve in the process.

t this company we are totally committed to building support and opportunities throughout the supply chain and our Registered Installer programme is one of the most important parts of this strategy – offering builders a package of support from marketing materials and industry leading guarantees to free prequalified consumer leads for roofline and cladding work.

Is the Freefoam scheme open to anyone? Colin St John (CS): Absolutely – we have no restrictions on the type of company we authorise as Registered Installers. You might be a general builder, window installer or roofer. If you are fitting fascias, soffits and guttering on a regular basis you can join the scheme and get the benefits.

And last but not least is our 50 year guarantee.

So how does the guarantee work in practice? (CS): In today’s demanding market anything that sets your business apart from the competition is an advantage, so

Explain the benefits of the Registered Installer scheme (CS): As a business we provide a range of specific roofline literature and sales tools to help close a lead. From samples to illustrate the quality of the product, and swatches to showcase the colour range, the support package gives installers the help to maximise upsell opportunities.

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products produced with market leading Renolit EXOFOL MX foil incorporating its Solar Shield technology (SST). SST offers built in sun reflection, which reduces heat absorption, thus minimising profile temperature and expansion. A strong guarantee adds weight to a sales pitch and is easy to administer with a simple online registration process.

that’s where the 50 year extended ‘Lifetime’ guarantee comes in. Only Registered Installers can offer the 50 year guarantee. It is available on all white roofline products – fascia, soffit and guttering – and backed by an environmentally friendly lead-free formulation. But it’s not just white – a 10

year guarantee is available on the full colour range backed by the manufacturer’s patented Colormax technology. A 10 year guarantee is also offered on foiled woodgrain finish FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON THE FREEFOAM BUILDING PRODUCTS REGISTERED INSTALLER SCHEME VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN039

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A GOOD SOUND GRASP

Steve Smith, Head of Product Management & Business Intelligence, Knauf Insulation summarises what you need to know when it comes to insulation & noise eeping the cold out is usually the primary role for insulation, but there are other ways it can contribute to building performance. As the market starts to pay closer attention to some of these other factors in the pursuit of resilient buildings, it’s essential to ensure you’re taking them into account on your own projects. Combustible materials are now banned in sensitive applications, including on residential buildings over 18m in England & Wales, and over 11m in Scotland. Many important voices – such

as the Fire Protection Association and Fire Brigades Union – are calling for the ban to be extended to other building types. In these circumstances, choosing non-combustible insulation for all projects not only creates safer buildings, but also reduces the risk of legal action or costly remediation work should regulations tighten further. While fire safety is the most obvious example, it isn’t the only performance factor on the radar of customers. There’s another issue attracting increasing attention – noise.

Each year, noise pollution costs Europe

€30.8 billion

in healthcare treatment, lost working days, impaired learning and reduced productivity

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Why acoustic performance matters

We know more than ever about the damaging impact of noise pollution. Collectively, it costs Europe £24bn per year in lost productivity, impaired learning and harmed health. And the figures on a personal level are no less stark – with people regularly exposed to busy roads or airports 25 per cent more likely to suffer from depression, for example. As anybody who has ever lived with noisy neighbours can testify, a little bit of noise can do a lot of damage. Homeowners, businesses, local authorities and developers are becoming more aware of the negative effects of noise, and expect their buildings to do a better job of mitigating it. This means managing the sound that enters a building or room from elsewhere, and also preventing echoes and reverberations within a space. Approved Document E of the Building Regulations sets out the sound insulation requirements for the external walls and some internal walls within residential buildings in England and Wales, and Section 5 does the same for Scotland. But the regulations are only a minimum standard, and there are other applications in the home where noise-reducing insulation should be considered.

How the right insulation helps

Insulation is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to improve the acoustic performance of a building. Based on a typical 3-bed semi-detached home, it can cost as little as £30 extra to soundproof the

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internal partitions not specified under Approved Document E. For a busy family with noisy children and household appliances, that £30 could transform the way they use their home – creating quieter spaces for work, rest and play. But this is only the case if the correct insulation is used. Unlike thermal performance, where any R-value can be achieved by any insulation material just by adjusting its thickness, acoustic performance is more complicated. Some insulation materials are fundamentally unsuited to absorbing sound, and will reflect it back into a room, or allow it to pass through undisturbed. For example, rigid foam insulation boards have a closed cell structure, which absorbs very few sound waves. They are also more prone to unintended air gaps during installation, which can allow sound to ‘leak’ through. By contrasts, the fibre structure of Glass and Rock Mineral Wool naturally absorbs much of the kinetic energy of sound waves, turning them into

heat. It is also easier to install without gaps. Which products to use, and when choosing an absorbent insulation material is the starting point, but you also need to ensure the product is designed for acoustic performance. Building acoustics are complex, so there is no single metric for comparing different products in isolation. As a rule of thumb, check that a product is listed as suitable for your proposed application. For example, loft rolls should not be used in walls where noise reduction is required – acoustic roll is the appropriate product in this application. To bring clarity, our Knauf Insulation Solutions Guide includes a simple rating system to help you choose your product based on its acoustic, thermal, fire safety and environmental performance, relative to the rest of our range. Whether Glass or Rock Mineral Wool is the best solution depends on your application. For internal walls and floors, we recommend using Glass Mineral Wool Acoustic Rolls. For flat roofs, Rock Mineral

Wool Slabs are the right solution as their high compressive strength means rooftop traffic won’t compromise their long-term performance. For separating floors, you can use either Glass Mineral Wool Acoustic Rolls or Rock Mineral Wool Slabs. TAKE A LOOK AT THE KNAUF INSULATION SOLUTIONS GUIDE BY VISITING: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN040

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roofing, flooring & insulation product round-up

GREEN ROOF

The only accredited fire-rated and windtested system of its kind on the market, is how Evergreens UK Group describes its EverRoof artificial green roof system. The range meets all of the requirements of BS 476-part 3, ENV 1187 and EN 13501, the UK-EU test that certifies a roof’s reaction to fire damage, thereby offering greater protection against the potential damage made by fires from above, or spreading across the surface.

DRY RIDGE AND HIP SYSTEM

Fixed with a self-adhesive butyl strip which provides a permanently strong bond, Klober’s Roll-Fix Kit is a universal ventilating dry ridge and hip system suitable for ventilating most concrete and clay ridge/hip tiles. Quick and simple to install, with no special tools required, the kit is lightweight, safe and easy to handle. It is water and wind resistant, and vapour permeable.

MODULAR FLOORING

Making the process of installation easier, cleaner and quicker than ever before is what the manufacturers of Ezy-Install Flooring is promising for its product. The system comprises a high performance underlay, which is simply dry-laid on to a prepared base and cut to shape. Carpet, wood or luxury vinyl tiles are then held securely in place utilising the double grip properties of high grab adhesive tack and magnetic attraction. FOR MORE INFO VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN041

VINYL TILES

In design-led projects, the Altro Ensemble modular luxury vinyl tiles offer the flexibility to create unlimited patterns, with stone and wood effect options also available. It’s hard-wearing and comfortable underfoot, whilst equally benefitting from a 15dB sound reduction. Overall there are 39 colours and four modular sizes in the range.

FOR MORE INFO VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN045

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FOR MORE INFO VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN042

FOR MORE INFO VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN043

LIQUID APPLIED ROOFING

There are three systems in the BMI Sealoflex liquid applied waterproofing range – Ultima, Prima and Endura. Ultima is lightweight, seamless, versatile, singlecomponent system, which is low odour, solvent and VOC-free. Its chemistry, ‘wet-on-wet’ application and fast cure time of – depending on environmental conditions – 45 minutes to ‘rainproof’ and two hours to over-coating; means installers can get on and off the roof quickly. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN044

PV INSTALLATION WATERPROOFING

Brush applied as a semi liquid paste, Acrypol+ is a resin based acrylic waterproof protective coating that instantly prevents leaks. It dries to form an ultra-tough, seamless, flexible overlay, and is suitable for use on flat roofs, leadwork, slate, asbestos cement, all metals, bituminous surfaces, asphalt, flashings, chimney stacks, glasshouses, PVC, concrete and brick. The solution has the added benefit of being easy to apply, even in damp weather conditions. FOR MORE INFO VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN046

Ultra-light and extremely weatherresistant, Renolit Alkorsolar is a reliable and durable solution for fixing photovoltaic panels to any type of roof. Suitable for flat or sloping roofs it is a solution that is windproof, fully waterproof and strong yet light in weight. Consisting of a synthetic profile and an aluminium core, the weight of the PV system is distributed over the roof surface. FOR MORE INFO VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN047

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No.6 in the series

CUT TO THE QUICK In the latest instalment of the Tech Talk series, we explain how Makita’s new range of Efficut saw blades are helping tradespeople to speed up work and become more efficient on site. Managing a construction firm means the constant pursuit of improving efficiency to help lower costs without compromising on productivity or quality. Additionally, firms with high levels of operational efficiency produce little waste and minimise over-production. To this end, systems that improve processes are in high demand. Unfortunately, such systems are few and far between. That’s why technologies like Makita’s Efficut saw blades are so noteworthy when undertaking any cutting work. Noting the requirement for faster operation and longer run times, the power tool manufacturer has designed the blades to allow those on-site to make cuts 2.4 times faster than standard. This significant improvement is also helping tradespeople to carry out more cuts per charge, reducing downtime and enabling the greater adoption of cordless tool use. Available in a range of blade diameters and tooth conjurations, with wood and metal cutting variants, the new blades are

50 MARCH 2020 PROFESSIONAL BUILDER

quick, efficient and provide lifelong service. The tooth design on these blades features several properties to offer a number of improved user benefits. A thinner blade produces less resistance during operation and, therefore, is less draining on the battery – operators can experience extended battery life of up to 2.4 times longer when cutting wood, and 1.5 times longer when

cutting metal. The blades also allow for 2.4 times more cuts per battery charge cutting wood, and 1.6 times more cuts per battery charge when cutting metal, in comparison to equivalent, conventional saw blades. A scalloped front face on each tooth provides excellent chip chute performance and the sharp tip, with bevelled angle, enables a fine cut with only minimal effort, offering a faster cut, and allowing tradespeople to undertake more cuts between charges.

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This is particularly significant for firms using cordless tools. With the increased efficiency of the Efficut saw blades, tradespeople can achieve more before having to re-charge, progressing work faster and more efficiently. Thanks to better performance and run times, these saw blades help make cordless tools a more viable and suitable option on busy construction sites. This is a significant benefit, especially in light of new health and safety regulations around loose and lowhanging cables. Adopting cordless tools makes proper cable management far easier, reducing the opportunity to

trip over trailing cables and the need for additional solutions, such as cable ties and hooks. Furthermore, cordless tools afford users an extra level of flexibility, which enables them to access awkward or limited areas. Importantly, for those requiring increased speed, the saw blades can also be used on a wide range of corded tools. Even on corded machines, the blades can make cutting speed 2.5 times faster. Representing a technological advancement, the Efficut saw blades are a very viable option to help construction firms to achieve higher levels of operational efficiency. Using Efficut blades, high-drain cordless tools, such as circular and mitre saws, can be used without the need for constant recharging.

TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE MAKITAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S EFFICUT SAW BLADES VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN000

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THE ROTARY CLUB

Professional Builder puts your questions to Bosch on its GRL 600 CHV Rotary Laser Level

can be unforgiving environments for any piece of equipment, which is why, if it does get knocked over, there’s two protective handles on each side (four in total) for shock absorption, whilst the design benefits from a 2m tripod tip over rating.

When it comes to any laser level accuracy is king, especially in a model with an extended range, so what can the GRL 600 CHV offer? A. One of the main benefits of this rotary laser is that it is highly accurate, achieving ± 0.05mm/m and 1.5mm/30m, with a working diameter of up to 600m with the LR 60 receiver. Not only that, thanks to the quick and easy user calibration available through the app, end users can have confidence that the tool is always accurate.

What about durability? If, for instance, it rains would I have to cover it or bring it in? A. This unit is IP68 protected against dust and water, and that includes the battery compartment. We know that building sites

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I already have a number of Bosch power tools on my van so can I use the same batteries? A. The GRL 600 CHV actually comes with the convenience of a choice of power source. It’s compatible with all Bosch 18V Li-ion batteries up to 8.0Ah, and will achieve a 60h run time with the manufacturer’s latest 4.0Ah ProCore. Make use of the included BA 1 Adapter, however, and you can utilise alkaline cells, achieving a 70h run time in the process. Whichever of these you’re running, thanks to the spring-supported ejecting of battery and adapter, you will never be left uninterrupted on the job.

We mainly use our existing laser level for footings and foundations, but what other applications could we be looking at?

A. There’s a whole host of jobs that this rotation laser quite literally has in its sights, whether it’s garden landscaping or determining cut and fill values for excavation. Move inside, and wastewater pipe installation or suspended ceilings will equally present no problem. Indeed, WHAT’S IN THE BOX? GRL 600 CHV Rotary Laser 씰 Laser Receiver 씰 RB 60 Receiver Bracket 씰 RC 60 Remote Control 씰 WM 6 Wall Mount 씰 GBA 18V 4.0Ah ProCore Li Battery Pack 씰 GAL 18V-40 Li Battery Charger 씰 BA 1 Battery Adapter 씰 (4) D Batteries 씰 (4) AA Batteries 씰 Red Laser Glassses 씰 Red Target Plate 씰 Tripod Carrying Straps 씰 Carrying Case

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We’ve had issues in the past with the receiver in that some makes we’ve tried can have a small reception area and that makes it hard to find the laser beam? A. Thanks to the 125mm reception area on our LR 60 you shouldn’t have that problem. In addition, the receiver has been designed to be simple to set up and operate, with features like a dual-sided and backlit LCD display.

indoors is where the variable speed function – at a choice of 150, 300 or 600rpm – comes into its own, where a reduced rpm will make the laser more visible in challenging lighting conditions. Similarly, the unit also has a choice of sweep angle at 0º, 10º, 25º, 50º and 360º. Finally the GRL 600 CHV's ability to use dual axis for sloping up to 8.5 per cent is a must have on your rotational laser.

You’ve talked about calibration through the app, but we’d be interested to hear what other functions we can expect through our phones? A. The Bosch Levelling Remote App connects to the GRL 600 CHV via Bluetooth and is a completely free of charge download for iOS and Android

smartphones. It saves on set up time, including slope and sweep angles, allows one individual to do far more on site, especially if they’re working alone and, because everything can be controlled from the app, it will eliminate the risk of moving the device in operation. The CAL Assistant guides you through the calibration process for each axis, whilst it’s also possible to save individual settings, including slope and rpm, which can then be quickly applied at any time in the future. Many of these functions can also be enjoyed with the supplied RC 6 remote control unit. With this device in hand, end users can move the sweep or spot either clockwise or anti-clockwise, adjust the sweep angle, toggle between the X and Y axis, and vary the speed.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON THE BOSCH GRL 600 CHV ROTARY LASER LEVEL VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN049

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MANY HANDS MAKE LIGHT WORK How can tradesmen cut down on time wasted on site waiting around for another pair of hands to get otherwise simple tasks done? By investing in a few tools, argues John Dabb, Sales and Marking Director at Hyde.

If you totalled up the amount of time in an average week you or your team were left standing idle while waiting for a colleague or an apprentice to come along and lend a hand you’d probably be surprised with the result. Quick and simple jobs, such as hanging doors and even assembling equipment, can take ages and leave you chasing your tail for the rest of the day, just because you need an extra pair of hands to get the job done. Wouldn’t it be nice not to have to rely on anyone else, to get on with the job and even end up finishing with time to spare? Well actually, you can have your cake and eat it. All that’s needed is some careful planning of your equipment and a few clever tools to replace that extra pair of hands that always seem so elusive on site. The first trick is to think of those tasks that always seem to take longer than planned for this very reason and then look for solutions to the problem accordingly.

Level Headed

The Stabila 106T is an extremely long and sturdy extendable spirit level that can be adjusted to the required length, perfect for levelling out high and long constructions on your own.

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How about when levelling out high and long constructions and you need someone to hold the the level steady at the far end? Not a problem when you’ve got an extendable spirit level. Taking up the same amount of space in your tool bag as a standard-length level, an

extendable model will enable you to measure and align accurately and quickly with just the one pair of hands. The Stabila 106T Extendable Spirit Level, for example, has an extremely strong double-chamber profile with two finger holes, with the red coated end being telescopic. The extremely sturdy construction, along with the strong eccentric clamp, ensures a high level of accuracy when extended to any position. The printed length scale is ideal for setting the extended length with the small plates provided on one side to even out any irregularities. A reliable partner when aligning higher and longer constructions, the light metal rectangular profile has one horizontal vial and two vertical vials. What about hanging heavy doors and installing kitchen cabinets? There’s no way jobs like that can be done singleAble to bear loads of up to 250kg, the Winbag Max takes the weight off when hanging doors or fitting furniture, making such tasks light work for one installer, instead of two.

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The Bora Speedhorse takes just a second to set up, saving precious time so you can work faster and complete jobs more efficiently.

handedly without doing yourself a mischief and ending up with a less than straight end result. However, rather than relying on workmates to help you out, try a self-inflating shim as your work buddy. In fact, it may even be more effective than human intervention as it can go into tight spots where no man can! The Winbag Max, for example, is a powerful, hand-operated inflatable air cushion made of fibre reinforced material with a load capacity of up to 250kg. This offers infinite adjusting possibilities, from positioning window and door frames

before final fastening and lifting heavy doors into place on or off the hinges, through to an extra hand with drywall installation and levelling of furniture and kitchen cabinets. With this device you can easily do the job alone, even with large projects, with the soft air cushion ensuring a scratch-free finish and making it ideal for use on retro-fit tasks. And how about that sawhorse that is so blinking fiddly to put up and put away again when you can’t figure out which way is up? Not a problem with a quick assemble model, which will save the cursing for more important moments! It’s hard to believe but the Bora Speedhorse takes just 1.6 seconds to set up and can be done with just one hand. To tear down, just pull the levers on each end and fold the legs up and the best bit? It doesn’t matter in which order that’s done.

This is a tool that offers a whole host of beneficial features once in use too, including a longer beam for a wider support area and leg supports that can be flipped out to take the weight of boards, doors plywood and other sheet material. Yes, such solutions cost money and won’t be the cheapest option on the market, but when you add up the time, effort and quite often stress saved on what should be menial tasks you’ll soon be running at a profit.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON THE BORA SPEEDHORSE VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN050 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON THE WINBAG MAX VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN051 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON THE STABILA 106T EXTENDABLE SPIRIT LEVEL VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN052

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THE TROUBLE WITH STUBBLE

Facial hair is affecting respiratory protection for construction workers and employers need to address the issue, argues George Elliott, senior application engineer for the Personal Safety Division at 3M.

©sklyareek/AdobeStock

The construction industry is a high risk sector for respiratory illnesses. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), each year around 3,000 workers in construction suffer with breathing and lung problems believed to be caused, or made worse, by their work and more than 500 workers are estimated to die each year from exposure to silica. Because of the broad range of jobs within the industry, construction workers face multiple hazards that could cause respiratory illnesses, including respirable crystalline silica (found in common building materials such as bricks and cement); wood dust; welding fume; asbestos; and isocyanates. Facial hair is making the situation even more hair raising. According to a 2017

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YouGov survey, 42 per cent of men now have some form of facial hair, of which, 44 per cent sport a full beard – up 27 per cent from five years ago. And according to beard fashionistas, the beard is set to remain the staple style-statement for some time yet. But for UK construction workers, being unshaven, whether for fashion, religious or cultural reasons, could pose a deadly health risk if the suitable Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) isn’t used. Facial hair growth, directly under the seal of tight fitting RPE will interfere with the seal required when using devices such as a filtering face-pieces, reusable half masks or reusable full face masks. All these forms of RPE are designed to form a tight fitting seal around the face to ensure the user is protected against hazardous substances.

Seal of Approval

In 2015, a study was undertaken by the HSE on 15 volunteers looking at the effects of wearer stubble on the protection provided by certain tight fitting facepieces. The report (RR1052), available via the HSE website, affirmed the guidance that wearers of tight fitting face-pieces should be clean shaven in the area of the mask seal. When RPE is issued by an employer it is important that workers are taught how to use, check, maintain and correctly fit their respiratory protection, and are educated on the importance of being clean-shaven if wearing a tight fitting face-piece. All workers who wear tight fitting face-pieces are legally required to undergo face fit testing by a competent person to ensure the RPE fits them. A tight fitting face-piece will only protect the wearer from contaminants if the respirator is able to achieve a good

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seal. As beards and facial hair will impede the ability of a face-piece to form a tight seal, those with facial hair under the seal should not be face fit tested and should not wear tight fitting RPE. The ‘cleanshaven’ message must be delivered at the time of fit testing and whenever tight fitting RPE is used at work. With this continuing beard boom, employers and employees need to be aware that there are RPE options for those who do sport facial hair.

Loose Change Typically these are known as loose fitting headtops (without a tight seal to the face) which are afforded either filtered powered air through a battery powered turbo unit, known as a powered air system, or a regulator providing breathable quality air from a secondary air source, known as an supplied air system. These loose fitting headtops provide a seal made under the chin or around the neck and can be worn by those with certain facial hair to give them their

required respiratory protection. Loose fitting devices do not need to be face fit tested either. A wide range of headtops are available on the market to ensure the correct level of protection can be met for multiple applications. Certain loose fitting headtops also integrate other items of PPE. For example, some headtops can integrate a hard hat, a face visor, hearing protection as well as respiratory protection. Compatible solutions like this are favoured by construction firms as often these items of PPE are required at the same time for task specific applications.

In many cases, the consequences of not wearing the correct PPE are obvious. It’s easy to imagine the dangers of having something fall from height and hit your head, so the wearing of a hard hat is simply common sense. Airborne hazards, on the other hand, can be invisible to the naked eye, odourless and tasteless, and their impact on the body can take years rather than minutes to show. This often means that they can be easier to dismiss. Not wearing the correct respiratory protection, or wearing it incorrectly, can allow airborne hazards to get into the lungs and cause irreparable damage. Employers and employees must understand the impact that facial hair can have on the effectiveness of respiratory protective equipment and take the appropriate steps to protect their staff and themselves.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON 3M VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN106

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Paul Bruton, Product Development Director at WernerCo, reflects on how working at height has changed during his four decades in the industry, and the positive role training has had in improving user safety.

Raising standards Changing with the times

The industry is ever changing, which means that the needs of people using access equipment are always evolving too, so during the development stages at WernerCo it is important to engage with end users to understand how products are used to make sure any new developments are addressing customer needs, or fill a gap in the market, ultimately making tradesmen’s work easier and, of course, safer. In addition to customer feedback, legislation also drives much of WernerCo’s product development, and there have been several changes to the governing standards here in the UK in recent years, such as the introduction of the updated EN131 standards. Following a review, the European Commission found that a number of improvements were required to help increase safety when working at height. As a result, EN131 was updated in 2018 in order to create a harmonised standard for ladders, setting out a clear distinction in classification between professional and non-professional ladders. As well as the classification between products, additional considerations have brought in major safety changes to the design of both domestic and professional ladders. For example, all ladders must now have a minimum load capacity of 150kg, while extension and combination ladders over 3m are required to have a

stabiliser bar. Alongside these new safety features, the updated standard also introduced new test protocols for slip, strength in the position of use and durability in professional use ladders. Whilst tradesmen can still use any ladder they already own, this update to EN131 guarantees that any new ladder purchased for professional and nonprofessional use meets the new standards, effectively phasing out older insufficient ladders. However, one of the most significant changes in the industry was the introduction of the Work at Height Regulations in 2005, which had a huge impact, providing a much greater emphasis on risk assessment and more onus on both employers and end users to ensure safe working practices. As a result, research from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found that the UK has consistently had some of the lowest workplace fatality and serious injury rates in the European Union – thanks to the hard work and commitment of installers and businesses in implementing the regulation’s requirements.

The tangible benefits of training

Although improvements to product safety, and the introduction of the Work at Height Regulations in 2005, has done much to help, falls from height are still one of the leading causes of workplace fatalities and injuries. Over the last five

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years, nearly 200 people have been killed following a fall from height at work, and alarmingly almost 29,000 injuries have been reported. A big challenge in the industry is educating tradesmen on how invaluable training can be. Although as a manufacturer, WernerCo makes its products as safe as possible, most falls from height are sadly down to user error. If a tradesman does not evaluate the risks of working at height, and take safety seriously, there will always be a chance of accidents happening. Tradesmen who work at height could often think an accident will never happen to them, and therefore discounting any need for training. While cost and time spent off the tools might minimally impact a business, the life-changing consequences from a fall can be much greater, and WernerCo is working hard to make people understand that this small investment can have huge benefits. Education and training are key elements that can make working at height

LEARN MORE ABOUT WERNERCO BY VISITING: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN053

safer. Many manufacturers and trade bodies offer accredited training courses for regular and occasional access equipment users alike. Furthermore, in 2019, the All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Working at Height – supported by the Ladder Association and all 11 members of the AIF – publish their first report ‘Staying Alive’. This report called for enhanced reporting of all near misses

and accidents, which could help create a safer environment for the millions who work at height every day. Despite these challenges, it is positive to see that during Paul’s time within the industry has seen the UK take its place at the forefront of work at height safety. However, at WernerCo, Paul still believes there is more work to be done – one accident is one too many!

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FASTEN Neil Kirwan, Specification Manager at SFS, provides a guide to choosing the right fasteners and fixings Specifying fasteners and fixings correctly is critical to ensuring the fastening system remains robust throughout the lifetime of the roofing system or building envelope. It is imperative the correct fasteners are matched to perform with the fastening system and the material it is securing, as well as the substrate that the fastener is securing down to. ■ HOW TO SPECIFY A FASTENER OR FIXING There are five principles of fasteners: durability, weather-tightness, airtightness, aesthetics and structural performance. Each particular application will need the fastener to comply with at least two or three of these functions – and often will need all five. Failure of the fastener to satisfy these functions may lead to the inevitable, and sometimes catastrophic, failure of the system, or very costly remedial works. The key is to specify on an individual basis, selecting the appropriate fastener for the specific use.

UP!

■ THE DIFFERENT TYPES AND CLASSES OF FASTENERS There are a multitude of fasteners available on the market, each one designed for a particular use. These include self-drilling fasteners, self-coring fasteners, self-threading fasteners and clamping fasteners. To avoid failure of the roof system, both the type of fastener and its material must be considered early on in the design phase. Coated carbon or austenitic stainless-steel are the two main materials used in manufacturing fasteners and fixings. Coated carbon steel rapidly corrodes upon exposure to humidity and polluted environments, and whilst surface coatings with excellent corrosion resistance can be applied to prolong a fastener’s life, this will only slow down the corrosion process. Good industry practice is to use austenitic stainless-steel fasteners in combination with galvanised steel purlins to avoid bi-metallic reactions.

■ ONE SIZE DOES NOT ALWAYS FIT ALL Buildings are naturally exposed content in the air that can corrode fasteners. Fasteners in to the elements, which differ these cases should be made depending on where it is from A4 316 grade stainlesslocated. The external steel. environment of a building can However, it isn’t just the impact the effectiveness of external environment of a fasteners used. For example, building that impacts on what when specifying fastening fasteners should be specified systems for use on buildings – the building’s use can have within 10km of the coast or an implications. Swimming pools, estuary, there is a high salt

■ WHAT SHOULD BE CONSIDERED DURING THE SPECIFICATION STAGE? In order to ensure the fastener and fastening system specified meet the durability, weathertightness, airtightness, aesthetic and structural performance requirements of the final product, specifiers need to consider five key areas: whole lifecycle costs, external and internal environment, colourmatching needs, legislation and regulation, and warranties.

■ THE IMPORTANCE OF WHOLE LIFECYCLE COSTS Look at the whole lifecycle costs of the fastener, not just the initial costs. Choose an A4 316 stainless-steel fastener and you are guaranteed to meet the minimum requirements, but if you buy cheap, they won’t last as long and will need to be replaced earlier than expected. This brings about servicing, maintenance and additional capital costs that can be avoided by specifying the appropriate fasteners first time around.

for example, cause a high level of chlorine in the air, leading to stress cracking within the fastening material as humidity and chlorine react with the metal. These buildings would be better suited using R5, or 1.4547 stainless-steel fasteners, which are less likely to be affected by chlorine in the air.

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■ COLOUR MATCHING During the 1970s, the market share for colour-coated cladding materials dramatically increased, principally within the industrial and retail building sectors. Today, colourcoated cladding represents over 90 per cent of the total market, and is now widely used as part of the cladding envelope on many other building types, such as educational, healthcare, residential, leisure and transport-related buildings. One key consideration for specification is using powder coating instead of the traditionally used moulded headed fasteners for colour matching. Moulded headed fasteners are prone to UV degradation, whereas powder coating offers toughness and durability, as well as providing an accurate match to the colour of the surrounding weather sheet. Powder coating is only very slightly affected by UV light, and so fading or weathering is uncommon. The fastener head remains small and compact, and there is no bulky plastic to cause visual intrusion.

■ LEGISLATION AND REGULATION Specifiers also need to consider changing legislations and their impact on fastening systems. For example, Part L2 of the Building Regulations for England and Wales, introduced in 2002 to help address energy efficiency requirements in non-domestic buildings, cast a light on the importance of airtightness. A prime focus for the new regulations is providing building managers, landlords and tenants with detailed and accurate information about energy usage in their buildings to enable them to identify areas where energy is

being wasted and where there are opportunities for reducing energy consumption. Effective seals are critical in ensuring the airtightness of a building. High grade butyl strip weather and air sealants, such as the pink strip butyl sealant developed by a leading sealant manufacturer and sold by SFS, perform 20 per cent better than standard butyl sealant. This type of sealant is manufactured from cross linked butyl and is therefore suitable for all corrosivity categories C1-C5.

■ WARRANTIES AND CERTIFICATION Finally, it is critical specifiers consider the implication of the fasteners used on the warranty of the fastening system. Architects and specifiers expect the fasteners to be warranted with the fastening system that is being used, but often, the fastener is warranted separate to the system. This can mean that the whole system is not warranted, causing complications down the line of the project. Whilst fasteners are used in abundance, these everyday heroes are critical to the overall quality of the roofing system or building envelope. Specifiers should consider fastening solutions once they have an aesthetic vision in mind to ensure the correct fixing solution is used to achieve that vision, as well as deliver whole life costs and value. LEARN MORE ABOUT SFS BY VISITING: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN054

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THE CLOTHES MAKE THE TRADESMAN Tibby Singh Chodha slips into something more comfortable with the latest from Snickers Snickers Workwear are always looking for ways to improve what is already a great product. In fact, it’s easy to wear these clothes but trickier to keep up with the company’s ever expanding range. I particularly admire how the workwear is customised for each trade and adapted for all weather conditions, come rain or shine. Reviewing their workwear never wears me out, so I was excited to slip into the latest garments on offer.

First up are the Ruffwork Canvas Work Trousers with Holster Pockets. For the last two weeks I’ve been doing some rough work myself. By that I mean a demolition job as opposed to the quality of my work being rough. With this kind of project you tend to find yourself rubbing up against rough surfaces. With the strength of these trousers it’s hard just to scratch the surface. They have been protected with Cordura fabric, which makes them durable, versatile and reliable. They are still flexible from the crotch to the rear, so you don’t have to worry about any wardrobe malfunctions. I always find that trousers get weak at the knees but, with the extra life afforded by reinforced knee protection, you’ll have a longer working relationship with these. GET MORE VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN055

Something that doesn’t get an extra life are your knees, and they need protecting. That’s why knee pads are an essential part of your daily attire and I never work without them. I’m always amazed how Snickers Workwear are evolving and improving the technology in products that seem as simple as some knee pads, but yet again they’ve managed to achieve just that with the XTR Craftsmen D30 Knee Pads. They are shaped to hug your knees and you hardly notice they are there, although you will notice and appreciate they are there when working on the roughest surfaces. I never once have to worry about pushing them up or down as they stay securely in place for continuous comfort, while providing flexibility when walking. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN056

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tools, fixings & workwear Tibby Singh — www.TibbySingh.com I can seriously say that these Solid Gear Venture Safety Trainers are actually lighter than some of the sportswear I’ve had. The NANO toe cap technology means they are metal free and 40 per cent stronger than fibreglass. The ETPU midsole is clearly noticeable as it provides amazing cushioning. Solid Gear have given the shoe laces the kick and instead used the new BOA Lacing System. This means they can be tightened quickly by simply turning a dial, providing a supreme fit in the process. I found this very handy as I was working outdoors in the cold, where lacing up with numb fingers can be more challenging than the job you’re on. GET MORE VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN057

The new AllroundWork Logo Hoodie is a premium product that will certainly keep you warm and feeling comfortable. It’s made of a high quality thick 400g/m2 cotton and polyester blend, making you feel like someone’s wrapped you up in cotton wool. Snickers Workwear always has a trick up its sleeve, and in this case it’s the raglan sleeve design. It extends in one piece fully to the collar, leaving a diagonal seam from the underarm to the collarbone, which offers much more freedom of movement. You can even keep your hands warm in the kangaroo pocket when they’re not working away. You’ll never see a burnt iron mark on this hoodie as it features a form-stable construction, meaning it doesn’t require ironing. That’s just another reason to wear it on a daily basis as ironing can be a heap of work, especially when you’re in a rush. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN058

It seems as though the adventure with Snickers Workwear continues as they don’t just talk the talk, but walk the walk! GET MORE DETAILS ON SNICKERS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN059

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KNOW THE DRILL! Tibby Singh Chodha gives the Bosch GSB 18V-55 Combi Drill Driver a shot.

When you first pick up a drill to review and find it has a metal chuck, it’s always a reassuring mark of quality. Next comes the feel and sound, and when you press the trigger on the Bosch GSB 18V-55 Combi Drill Driver hearing the motor does not disappoint. The next feature I noticed was its brushless motor, which is another indicator that it is built to last. I have previously covered in Professional Builder just how much greater the efficiency and life of these motors is – there’s less friction being generated, less heat and, therefore, better performance. When it comes to that performance, this tool is powerful, with speeds of up to 1,800 rpm and a torque of up to 55 Nm.

It’s well balanced and feels comfortable in your hand and, thanks to the rubber coating, it prevents you from getting a sore hand from repetitive drilling. It has a compact design, so is ideal for those confined and awkward spaces. The two-speed gearbox features a robust metal construction, and another

metal component is its belt clip. There are various other features that are standard on many combi drills, such as screw, drill and hammer functions, as well as forward, reverse rotation and lock setting for toolless change and various torque settings. It’s all work, day and night thanks to an incorporated LED job light. Bosch has positioned the light at the bottom, just above the battery pack and below the trigger, rather than squeezing it in above the trigger and below the chuck. I think this is better as it doesn’t create a large shadow, so a definite light-bulb moment for this design. Although the core reason is the drill design and features that makes its performance exceptional, the Pro CORE18v 4.0 Ah battery enhances this performance. It delivers much more power yet it’s also more compact than a standard 4.0 Ah battery. I was also pleasantly surprised on opening the case to find an extra battery, making it three batteries in total. You can never have enough batteries, even if they last a long time. You’re even able to quickly check which one needs charging by a press of the battery indicator button. For the most common power tool that will get used regularly on a daily basis, this Bosch Combi Drill Driver covers everything you’d want. Mine knows the drill of being the first tool out of the van and the last one in the van at the end of the day all too well. LEARN MORE ABOUT BOSCH AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN060

Tibby Singh — www.TibbySingh.com

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PERFECT FOIL Chris Burdett, builder and co-founder of PipeSnug, looks at how practical it is to make the move away from single use plastic sealant and adhesive.

Loading the sealant gun is quick and easy The sealant has really good workability Whether it is high up your personal priority list or not, environmental issues are increasingly higher on the news Hertfordshire was the location for this test. agenda. They are probably becoming more important to many Sealing the kitchen worktop, it is obvious this is good quality of your customers too. While I am no Greta Thunberg, my own stuff. This sealant has good workability, which is important to me personal position is that it is important the industry introduces as I don’t use some brands because they are too sticky and hard working practices and materials that do the job well, but with to smooth. In the ‘old days’ I would lick my finger and smooth the minimal impact on the world around us. sealant into a finish, but today, like most of us, I have a Grouting So I was really interested to get to test out HB42’s Ultimate and Silicone Profiling kit which saves me ingesting anything All-in-One Eco Foils. These 400ml foils replace the single use horrible. Although strong, this sealant is safe, plastic tubes you usually buy sealant and as it’s low in Volatile Organic Compounds, but adhesive in. Hilton Banks, the manufacturer of still bonds to almost anything; it is also food Eco Foils, tells me that over two million single safe, inhibits mould and cures in 24 hours. use plastic cartridges are put into landfill every So, after you have used the entire foil, you week in the UK and recent figures on plastic are left with a small, squashed piece of foil. waste in the construction industry are These foils certainly save on skip space, and shocking. 23 per cent of all the plastic that means you save money too. They actually consumed in the UK comes from the produce 96 per cent less waste than the single construction sector, with 20,000 tonnes of use tubes and you get 38 per cent more plastic being sent to landfill every year! sealant than in the 290ml plastic tube. One of First of all it’s important to note that to use my main concerns is whether these foils will these foils, you need a different gun to your Look at the difference in last in the back of van, but they are very usual one for plastic tubes. You can pick these wastage. I am changing to foils durable it turns out! The gun stays clean too. up very cheaply and it’s easy to load up, clean — it is the right thing to do Overall I am really impressed and I would and reuse. You can also use them with plastic encourage you to give these Eco Foils a go. I tubes if you need to, so it’s not like it’s a waste of money if you can’t get on with foils. You cut the foil end can see a time in the next few years when, just like in other industries, the pressure to eradicate single use plastics becomes with scissors, load up the foil, and, with a gentle few trigger unstoppable. Before then, cut your waste and save a bit of cost squeezes, you’re good to go. To be honest, it’s quick and easy with these HB42 Eco Foils. and you get a very smooth flow of sealant too. I was keen to see how powerful the sealant and adhesive is – GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN061 as well as its quality – so one of my kitchen renovations in

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tools, fixings & workwear product round-up

STRETCH TROUSERS

In addition to a stretch fabric that delivers comfort and close quarter mobility on site, Snickers Workwear’s new LiteWork Stretch Trousers also feature detachable holster pockets. The manufacturer also maintains that they are the ideal choice if you’re working hard in warmer weather, whilst there’s also ruler, and cargo pockets for easy access to tools and fixings, all Cordura reinforced for durability. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN062

NEW JACKETS

Padded for warmth, the Dickies Winter Softshell Jacket features stretch fabric for ease of movement – allowing the wearer to stay warm without the restrictive, bulky feel of some winter jackets. The same manufacturer’s Winter Jacket benefits from quilted lining for added warmth on particularly cold days, plus a fleecelined chin guard for extra comfort. Both jackets are waterproof, breathable and include reflective details, plus adjustable cuffs and hems to retain warmth. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN063

POUCHES AND BELTS

Get organised on site with the PLANO range of bags, pouches and belts, available in the UK through Hyde. Made from a heavy-duty reinforced material, that can be quickly and easily attached and detached from a workman’s toolbelt, the selection of pouches ensures tradespeople have the tools to hand. The Multi-Tiered Tool Pouch, for example, has tiered pockets for carrying a variety of tools, while smaller pouches are available specifically for carrying items such as nails, drills and hammers. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN064

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SAFETY WEAR

BSA Brands (the licensee of Bisley Workwear to the UK) is launching Bisley Workwear’s popular high visibility safety workwear range into the UK. Call it hi-vis or safety wear, the range features lightweight and stretch fabrics for breathability, movement and comfort, and has been specifically designed to meet the UK’s EN ISO 20471 safety specifications, with Class 1, 2 or 3 rankings given to each garment based on visibility and performance. All taped garments use carefully selected and tested reflective tapes made from heavy duty reflective glass microbeads, customised to align with the stretch and weight of each garment. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN065

TOOL STORAGE AND ACCESSORIES

Hardwearing, strong and durable, C.K Magma Toolbelts and Accessories provide convenient access and protection for tools and work-related items and include Tool Pouch; Drill Holster; Padded Toolbelt Set; a handy Pocket Pack and Mobile Phone Pouch. The Maxi Bag (MA2628A) features an extra wide opening for easy access and 22 internal pockets and holders. The durable reinforced polyster construction is 100 per cent waterproof and a padded handle and shoulder strap make for easy and comfortable portability. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN066

PAINTERS & PLASTERERS WORKWEAR

The special painters’ edition of Dassy’s work trousers feature a main fabric with mechanical stretch, with 4-way stretch Cordura inserts in strategic areas. Furthermore, knee pocket trousers are reinforced with ultradurable Cordura Stretch fabric at the knee. The D-FX Flex Painters work trousers also see the development of a completely new leg pocket specifically designed for painting and plastering tools. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN067

TOOL PROMOTION

‘Switch Up’ your old sander for a new Mirka electric sander or battery tool during March and receive a free tool bag containing four boxes of Abranet abrasives. Models available in the promotion include DEROS, DEOS, DEOS Delta, LEROS, ARP-B, AROP-B, AROS-S or AOS-B. Simply register the new tool’s proof of purchase and warranty registration, along with the returned tool’s details and serial number, within 30 days. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN068

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COMPETITION WIN with makita!

Three lucky readers could be in with the chance of winning one of these amazing prizes, courtesy of Makita. FIRST PRIZE: LS1019L 260mm Slide Compound Mitre Saw The LS1019L 260mm slide compound mitre saw is ideal for tradespeople working across a number of sectors – including carpenters, joiners, shopfitters and builders. The LS1019L includes Makita’s DXT technology, which, thanks to a larger cutting capacity, allows operators to cut larger size workpieces with greater accuracy. Designed with ease of use in mind, the LS1019L includes Soft Start technology for smooth start up and its Forward Rail System design means that the tool offers a smooth cutting motion. For versatility and flexibility, the unit’s bevel angle adjustment is located on the front of the saw, which means operators can adjust the bevel left and right quickly without having to reach around to the back of the machine. For improved operator safety, this mitre saw includes dual stage dust extraction. This means that dust can be collected from behind the fence and behind the blade, making dust collection more efficient, regardless of the size of the cut or the material.

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PRIZE

SECOND PRIZE: EK6100 Disc Cutter Makita’s EK6100 disc cutter is ideal for use over extended periods of time – an excellent power to weight (8.5kg) ratio with low vibration levels makes it ideal for working on longer jobs. Ease of operation has also been improved by a reduction in the rapid start pull force required to start the machine (compared to alternative machines) and fuel primer for easy starting. To ensure operator safety, the EK6100 is equipped with a 61cc 2-stroke engine with a stratified scavenging system, to minimise emissions and comply with all known exhaust emission regulations. The EK6100 also includes a cyclone pre-separation system, which works to effectively remove dust particles from intake air and reduce dust stuck on the filter. THIRD PRIZE: DLX2131MJ1 18V Cordless Tool Kit incl. 3 x 4Ah Batteries Always be prepared! This cordless tool kit is a useful addition to any tool bag, suiting the needs of all tradespeople – the kit includes the DHP482Z combi drill, DTD152Z impact driver and DC18RC charger. The DHP482Z and DTD152Z are powered by Makita’s 18V LXT Lithium-ion battery technology. LXT means that these tools deliver outstanding performance, as well as industryleading run times and charge times. With LXT, the batteries used to power the DHP482Z and DTD152Z do not need to be drained down before re-charging. With the DC18RC, LXT batteries can be charged in as little as 22 minutes (3.0Ah) to 55 minutes (6.0Ah). With CPU, Makita batteries can communicate with the DC18RC – this means that the charger can analyse the condition of the battery and identify issues such as overheating or over discharging. This keeps batteries working at their optimum for longer.

YOUR CHANCE TO WIN! For your chance to win visit www.rdr.link/BN069 and answer the simply question:

HOW MUCH DOES THE EK6100 WEIGH? 8.0kg 8.5kg 9.5kg

FOR MORE DETAILS ON MAKITA VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN072

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CONCRETE SCREEDING

MBW Europe has been chosen as the new exclusive distributor for the UK and Ireland for Ligchine’s range of laser-guided screeds. A global leader in laser-guided and 3D GPS/LPSguided concrete screeds, Ligchine offers a full line of automated concrete screeding machines that service flatwork companies from small owneroperated companies to very large global concrete contractors.

FOR MORE INFO: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN073

WOOD FINISH

Three new finishes will join the Osmo UK collection of TopOil products – White, Terra and Graphite. The range now features seven colours, including clear matt, satin matt, natural matt and acacia matt. As a combination of natural plant oils and waxes, it works by penetrating the surface of the wood to enhance the existing characteristics and grain. FOR MORE INFO: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN074

GENERAL BUILDING HESSIAN SHEET HOLDER

The newest addition to the Hedgehog family is the Hessiclip. Designed, developed and produced in the UK as an industry first to help minimise the risk of accidents and injury on building and construction sites from falling masonry, the device replaces the old method of precariously balancing bricks and blocks on top of hessian sheets during the curing process. FOR MORE INFO: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN076

KITCHENS & BATHROOMS

New décor launches and restructuring highlights to the wellknown Options and Omega collections are amongst some of the recent developments in the Bushboard brand. There are also eight new décor additions to the Evolve solid core laminate worksurfaces as well as the introduction of the new Vista splashback range. The same company’s Nuance is already widely specified as the leading alternative to ceramic tiling. FOR MORE INFO: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN078

MEMBRANE

Weather and fire protection, whilst also allowing moisture vapour to be vented from the structure, are just some of the attributes of the Firefly Membrane WP from TBA Protective Technologies. The material is supplied in 50 metre-long, 1.25 metre wide rolls with a nominal 0.2mm thickness, woven glass substrate, which is aluminised on one side. It is both strong and light to handle, weighing just 14 kg per roll. FOR MORE INFO: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN077

DECORATORS CAULK

With what the manufacturer claims is double the flexibility of other caulk products, the HB42 Ultimate Pro-Finish Decorators Caulk is long lasting, movementresistant and can be overpainted in just one hour. This white, solventfree, acrylic is flexible up to 12.5 per cent and can be used in joints up to 25mm wide and 20mm deep, filling deeper and wider in the process. It is easy to apply, forming a hard-wearing, flexible seal which contains a fungicide to help prevent mould. FOR MORE INFO: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN079

JOINT SEALING

A pre-compressed impregnated selfadhesive foam tape, ISO BLOCO 600 Premium Edition from ISO-Chemie can be used on joints up to 42mm, providing a high-performance weather tight and thermal/acoustic insulation seal for fenestration and façade applications. The product can be used to provide effective gap seals to accommodate expansion and movement while remaining permeable to trapped water and water vapour in extreme weather conditions. FOR MORE INFO: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN075

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DECORATIVE HARDWARE

Designed so that the builder can see exactly what they’re getting, the ERA Fab&Fix decorative hardware retail packs feature four distinct lines: Classic, Heritage, Architectural and S-Series. The durable ‘Hardex’ surface finish technology has surpassed 1,000 hours of prohesion testing, whilst there’s a ten-year guarantee available, covering function, and finish which also forms part of the FOR MORE INFO: manufacturer’s ‘Total Security Guarantee’. This is WWW.RDR.LINK/BN080 the most comprehensive warranty on the market. If a property is protected by ERA’s high security locks and hardware, the company guarantees to replace the homeowner’s damaged window or door and pay out a cheque for £5,000 in the unlikely event that their security is compromised.

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REPAIR MORTAR

MORE INFO: Just type in www.rdr.link/ followed by the unique code shown to get straight to more info.

BRINGING YOUR ‘A’ GAME There’s ‘mortar’ Ardex A46 than you might think and, with a wealth of applications, this rapid repair product should find a place on the back of virtually any tradesman’s van. Professional Builder’s Lee Jones talks to the company about its Multi-Purpose Repair Mortar. When it comes to making good the temptation for any tradesman is often to use what is already available on site. As a result sand and cement or gypsum-based bonding may well be the materials of choice, but these inevitably have their limitations. A46, on the other hand, is a rapid setting cement-based repair mortar – and dedicated product for the job – that has a multitude of uses across the trades.

The Ardex solution has actually been with us for some time, with the fact that it will go off in around ½ an hour already finding favour with the likes of floor layers and tilers. Try and effect a repair to a tiled window reveal with anything other than A46, such as a tile adhesive, for example, and it will likely slump, crack and debond. Sand and cement will undoubtedly fair no better, with a finish that rarely looks professional even when first applied and, once moisture starts to leave it, it will equally run the risk of cracking. When a plumber makes a hole for service pipes, or a sparks is chasing cables into walls, then this gaffer tape for masonry can step in – and, incidentally, it’s also good for

steps as well. Whilst it can be painted in just an hour, it will accept foot traffic in 30 minutes, and there’s no priming required. The material can be applied to a thickness of 50mm, which means it can also be utilised as a fall for a wetroom, for instance, or when constructing a ramp. “A46 is actually a patented polymer-modified product that locks moisture in, enhancing its bonding performance and reducing setting times in the process,” explains Ardex technical services manager, Steve Davies. “It’s available from the merchants in an 11kg bag, itself contained within a plastic tub. As a result, builders can mix up as little or as much as required for the repair at hand and, once the

Ardex technical services manager, Steve Davies, demonstrates the performance of A46 at the company’s academy in Haverhill

Before

After I

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REPAIR MORTAR

opened bag has been returned to the sealed bucket, it will remain useable for up to 12 months. That 11kg bag will be enough for coverage of 4m2 at a depth of 2mm but, for more significant repair jobs, we also supply a slightly larger bag.” Simply mix in the tub in a 1 – 3 ratio, and you’ll have 15 – 20 minutes of working time to play with. If you do need to apply A46 to the maximum 50mm depth, and you want that bag to go further, it is acceptable to mix the product with screeding sand, without any detriment to performance.

A46 is a very easy material to work with, and can be smoothed, floated and worked into any number of awkward spaces. Given that it is slump free, vertical or overhead applications will not prove a problem either, whilst the aforementioned polymer technology eliminates shrinkage. “For us it’s a bit of a nobrainer,” continues Steve. “It is so superior to the likes of sand and cement in any patch repair job, will eliminate call backs, and, because it’s less granular will leave a much smoother finish. It really is all you need for making good.”

“It is so superior to the likes of sand and cement in any patch repair job, will eliminate call backs, and, because it’s less granular will leave a much smoother finish. It really is all you need for making good.”

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■ In addition to its product range the manufacturer also operates two training academies – at its Haverhill headquarters and in Stokeon-Trent. You can view our feature on the courses available at the Ardex Academy by visiting WWW.RDR.LINK/BN081

If you want to see a video of A46 in action on the Professional Builder website visit WWW.RDR.LINK/BN082

If you want an indication of the pedigree behind Ardex, then the list of projects where its expertise has been utilised includes a portfolio of the most prestigious infrastructure developments. At the Aquatics Centre for the London Olympics Games, for example, over 866,000 ceramic tiles were fixed using Ardex technology. Indeed, whenever any major swimming pool build is undertaken it is this Suffolkbased company that will get the call on jobs where failure simply isn’t an option, but its extensive range of solutions have also found a home everywhere from Kings Cross St Pancras to Windsor Castle’s historic George’s Chapel.

LEARN MORE ABOUT SOLUTIONS FROM ARDEX VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN083

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THE TRADESHOW BUILT FOR THE TRADE PROFESSIONAL BUILDER

TOOLFAIR 2020

POWER TOOLS

•

HAND TOOLS

•

BUILDING EQUIPMENT

All the latest tools, live demos, show specials – all under one roof!

NEXT SHOWS EventCity, Manchester: Wespoint Arena, Exeter:

Thursday 12th & Friday 13th March 2020 Thursday 23rd & Friday 24th April 2020

Featuring:

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builders’ vehicles 씱

the big time Looking for a van that’ll cope with everything your working day will throw at it? These are the top six on sale today, according to Honest John Vans. No job is too big for a large van. In fact, when it comes to all-round practicality, the large van is one of the best and most versatile commercial vehicles. There are hundreds of different models to choose from, with large vans offered in a variety of body types that include high and low roof models, long and short wheelbases, crew cabs, dropsides and tippers. This means you can get the large and practical workhorse that your building business really needs. What’s more, with bank interest rates at a record low, there has never been a better time to get a great deal on a new large commercial vehicle. But which large vans on sale today are the best?

Peugeot Boxer The Peugeot’s Boxer is the mechanical twin to the Fiat Ducato, so there’s little to choose between the two. Like the Fiat, the Boxer’s load sill is among the lowest on the market, at between 493mm and 602mm and that means loading is generally pain free. Gross vehicle weights peak at 3.5 tonnes, which means all versions can be driven on a standard car licence, while the van’s maximum load width of 1.87 metres makes the Boxer apt for carrying bulky tools, equipment and materials.

Fiat Ducato The Ducato range is one of the longest-serving name-plates in the large van market, with the first version arriving as far back as 1981. Thanks to payload capacities that run all the way up to 2.2 tonnes, the Fiat is one of the most spacious large vans on the road. Cab comfort is good throughout and the 2.3 MultiJet diesel engines are flexible and frugal performers. The latest model is also available with an increased range of safety tech, with automatic emergency braking and a useful system that will warn the driver if a vehicle stays into the van’s blind spot. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN087

GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN084

Top large vans Ford Transit Backbone of Britain – that is the Transit’s claim to fame. And it is very true for the latest model. It’s nigh on impossible to complete any journey without seeing one on the road. The Ford Transit is one of the most capable vans you can buy. There are 450 model variants, with three load lengths and two load heights to choose from. Jumbo Transits have a load volume of 15.1 cubic metres while maximum payload peaks at 2.1 tonnes. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN085

GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN086

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Described by Mercedes-Benz as “a toolbox on wheels”, the Sprinter does everything you’d expect of a large van with the choice of front-, rear- or all-wheel drive. There’s lots of driver tech too with the Sprinter getting everything from autonomous city braking to a sophisticated drowsiness detection system that’ll prompt the driver to take a break if it detects mistakes being made. Claimed economy peaks at 41.5mpg while outputs range from 114PS to 163PS for the four-cylinder engines and rise to a thumping 190PS for the V6.

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builders’ vehicles DID YOU KNOW? A standard driving licence will allow you to drive a van weighing a maximum of 3.5 tonnes. The only exemption to this rule is if you passed your test before January 1997 – then you may automatically be able to drive larger, heavier vehicles weighing up to 7.5 tonnes. The vehicle’s driver’s manual will list its gross vehicle weight (GVW) – always check before you get behind the wheel.

GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN088

Volkswagen Crafter Easy to drive and packed with tech, the Crafter is as comfortable and refined as anything you’ll find in Volkswagen’s car range. The largest versions will easily carry six Euro pallets and payloads range from 735kg to 2.5 tonnes. The range spans 69 different versions, with a wide choice of body lengths and heights. Frontwheel drive versions offer a maximum cargo capacity of 18.4 cubic metres.

MAN TGE You would be forgiven if you have never heard of MAN – they’re still relatively new to the world of vans. But they’re not rookies when it comes to commercial vehicles, with a comprehensive and highly-rated range of trucks, as well as a large dealer and servicing network. The TGE is a true heavyweight champion of the large van market: all versions are easy to drive, practical and supported by MAN’s comprehensive truck service network. Gross vehicle weights span from 3.0 – 5.5 tonnes, which means there is a TGE to suit every heavy duty job. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN089

For more used van and pick-up buying advice visit: www.honestjohn.co.uk/vans or type “Honest John Vans” into your online search engine.

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SLIDER MAN Jeff Jones of The Technical Department gets his hands on the latest addition to the Van Vault family. aving owned an original Van Vault for over 15 years, I was interested to hear that the company had introduced a new version of the product – the Van Vault Slider. Although my original unit has stood the test of time, the Van Vault Slider features a modern, innovative design that offers some definite improvements for trade professionals. Prior to my first purchase, I’d invested in a new van and, with security in mind, had added all the optional extras from the dealer, such as upgraded locks, alarm system and grills. I then parked the van overnight in a secure car park – it was well-lit and there was a CCTV camera pointed right at it. What I’ve now come to realise is that all those security measures won’t protect you. If someone wants to

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get into the van, they will. As a result, I was completely cleaned out. Since then, my Van Vault has been a trusty companion in various work vans, keeping my tools safe. Sadly, this summer, I had my van broken into again – another victim of the disgusting epidemic that has affected so many tradesmen and women over the last few years. Fortunately, nothing was taken on this occasion, as all of my gear was safely stowed in my original Van Vault. 15 years old and still performing flawlessly! One issue that I have had with my original Van Vault is/was its size – I found that it was a bit on the small side. You could get a couple of drills into it and a tester, but that was about it. The Van Vault Slider caters for this issue and has easily enough space for six

average-sized power tool cases, and possibly more. After all, the drawer can take a payload of 300 kilos. I currently have 2 x drills, 1 x labeller and 2 x MFTs stowed away in mine, with plenty of room to spare. Another issue with the older model was the top opening lid. No matter the van you have, space is always at a premium. No sooner had you packed up your job, leaving plenty stacked on top of the Van Vault, before you’d realise you had missed something and needed access to the Van Vault again. You would then have to move everything off the lid, which could be a tedious process. The Van Vault Slider is a muchimproved design. I no longer have to lift the lid to access inside, and the top of the slider is non-slip. The Van Vault acts as a

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builders’ vehicles 씱

handy shelf for other storage boxes, further improving the organisation of the van. Built like an oversized drawer, it has heavy-duty, smooth-action drawer runners so, even with your weighty tools inside, it’s smooth and effortless to pull out. Once the drawer is fully extended, you can easily access all your tools from the top. Plus, it has a reinforced plate over the lock mechanism to give you added peace of mind. If I had to make any improvements, I would perhaps add some Van Vault stickers in the drawer when it is purchased. This way, these can be displayed clearly on the outside of the van to advertise the fact you’re using a Van Vault! Hopefully, this can deter thieves before they even attempt to break in.

An update – another break-in

Following the submission of this review for Professional Builder, my new Van Vault Slider was put to the ultimate test. My van was broken into outside my house (see picture, above), but thanks to the Van Vault Slider all of my gear was protected safe and sound. So, thank you to PB and Van Vault for allowing me to review the product as it’s saved me all the money and hassle that would have resulted from having to replace my tools. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON VAN VAULT VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN090

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builders’ vehicles

t r o p s n a r t in a of delight The Transporter 6.1 is the latest in a very long line of vans of that name in which generations of tradespeople have placed their trust. Professional Builder’s Lee Jones gets behind the wheel. n the world of four wheels there are certain brands that have achieved the status of industry institution, and the Transporter is certainly a case in point. Almost as ubiquitous as the tarmac on which successive models have clocked incalculable miles, at 70 years young, VW’s flagship LCV has been in production for longer than any of its rivals. Indeed, take into account its variants in panel, minibus and campervan and it’s comfortably the biggest selling van of all time – with more than 12 million units sold and counting. The Transporter 6.1 is the latest instalment in this success story, and it is a tale of advances in design and technology on every front. For builders, the business end of any commercial vehicle is the loadspace, and the Transporter is available with a full range of body styles. Each of the trades will, of course, have subtly different requirements, and with payloads from 772

88 MARCH 2020 PROFESSIONAL BUILDER

– 1,309kg – and load volumes starting at 5.8 and extending to a cavernous 9.3m3 – this is a vehicle with the muscle to manfully cope with whatever a builder can throw in it, with even the short wheelbase option accommodating two Euro pallets. Indeed, four gross vehicle weights, three wheelbase lengths, and a high roof version, should allow for a vehicle configured to the exact needs of your business. Enter into that space via a choice of rear tailgate or rear wing doors, and the trades who opt for the long wheelbase model will welcome the convenience of a low loading height of just 566mm. If you need to approach from the side then there’s the option of two sliding doors, each of which will grant access to load lengths stretching from 2,572 – 2,975mm. Sufficient brawn there may well be but this is equally a vehicle with brains. In the modern world, we demand to be digitally

connected at all times, and that’s just what the Transporter provides. It’s online connectivity unit (OCU), now available as standard on all infotainment systems, opens up a brave new world of internetbased services. The ‘We Connect’, ‘We Connect Plus’ or the fleet management system ‘We Connect Fleet’, introduces smartphone integration and a host of additional functions. A 6.5in. colour touchscreen is your in-cab gateway to an information highway, whilst the app will allow you to access the vehicle’s systems remotely. Effectively a remote control unit when outside your vehicle, We Connect offers the convenience of emergency and breakdown call, and a vehicle health report, and much more besides. Ever experienced the exasperation of walking along endless rows of vehicles in a car

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builders’ vehicles 씱

park looking for yours? Of course you have, but with Park Position you’ll never need to again, because the exact location is on your smartphone. With the additional functionality of We Connect Plus you can even lock and unlock the doors, and access an online anti-theft alarm. We live in a digital world and the advances that have been made in the field of the internet of things are prodigious, a trend equally matched in the onward march of driver assistance and safety. Thanks to the introduction of electro-mechanical power steering, a whole host of systems can now quite literally take the wheel. Cross Wind Assist, for example, makes use of the vehicle’s Electronic Stability Control programme to mitigate the potentially dangerous consequences of a sudden and unexpected blast, and is automatically activated at speeds over 50mph. Lane Assist keeps the Transporter on the straight and narrow by counter steering if

it crosses the line, whilst a simple push of a button will engage Trailer Assist, and help you safely reverse when towing plant and equipment.

Park Life

If rear view cameras are not enough – and there are three different options to choose from – Park Assist will map the Transporter 6.1’s entire surroundings. Park Assist 3.0 takes the technology a stage further still by identifying suitable spaces, and automatically parking the vehicle, or manoeuvring out of tight spots – and these are far from the only safety innovations that will intervene on your behalf. Both the Manoeuvre Braking Function, and Rear Traffic Alert will apply the brakes if they anticipate a collision with a static or moving object. Traffic Sign Recognition identifies a host of road signs and flashes them on the instrument display, and Front Assist with City Emergency Braking will maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front, and will stop the Transporter in order to prevent a crash. The internal combustion engine has been on an emissions-busting journey of its own in recent years, and its latest destination is Euro6. If you want to access the ultra-low emission zones that will in

the future be as much a feature of our town and city centres as pound shops and coffee houses then it represents the minimum requirement, and could well be reason enough alone to make the not inconsiderable investment in a new van. It has introduced technologies like Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) and Diesel Particulate Filters (DPFs) to our commercial vehicle vocabulary, with drivetrains now on a mission to reduce thirst whilst increasing output. The Transporter is on that self-same path and is powered by a choice of four different engines, two of which have been reconfigured on that basis. The entry level 2.0-litre TDI 90 PS replaces a previous 84 PS unit, for instance, and the 2.0-litre TDI 110 comes in for the former 102 PS motor. A vehicle like the Transporter doesn’t so much blur the boundaries between car and van as break them down completely, and each new incarnation brings over more of the equipment that we are accustomed in our saloons, estates and SUVs. Now into its seventh decade, it is a van that has quite literally stood the test of time. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN091

PROFESSIONAL BUILDER MARCH 2020 89

PB Live - PB_Layout 1 28/01/2020 13:06 Page 1

THE TRADESHOW FOR PROFESSIONAL BUILDERS

Professional

LIVE!

Top trade products, exhibition specials and hands-on demo zones

NEXT SHOW EventCity, Manchester: Westpoint Arena, Exeter:

Thursday 12th & Friday 13th March 2020 Thursday 23rd & Friday 24th April 2020

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v ch id er

Ki A l a n rk p a t ri c k

Da a n Con

Daniel An

NO. 10

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Mark e Mana ting ger

THE BOARD

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Part 2

Wood rather!

Norbord is the leading manufacturer of MDF worldwide. Here we look at installation guidelines.

Nailing and stapling

Where other methods of fixing are not practical, CaberWood MDF can be fixed with nails. Nails should be spaced 150mm apart to reduce the risk of splitting and at least 70mm from the corners. Nailing the edges of 9mm and 12mm CaberWood MDF is not recommended because of the risk of splitting. CaberWood MDF can also be fixed using staples. For best results, staples should not be inserted closer than 12mm from the edges and 25mm from the corners. This fixing method is only recommended for applications involving light loads. Close spacing of the staples is acceptable but the legs should be aligned at an angle of 15° to the plane of the board.

Mitre joints between CaberWood MDF panels

●

allowed to condition for several days before sanding and finishing to avoid the appearance of sunken joints. This treatment is essential when using high gloss finishes A tongue and groove joint is very efficient, provided the fit of the joints is not too tight as this may cause a split along the edge When attaching lippings the tongue should be machined on the solid wood piece

Wall panels

Adhesive bonded joints

A wide variety of jointing methods can be adopted providing the following simple guidelines are observed: ● The joint parts should be accurately machined ● Sharp cutters should be used to avoid tearing or burnishing the surfaces to be bonded ● A high solids content adhesive with gap filling properties should be used. (Polyvinyl Acetate or Urea Formaldehyde) ● Mating pieces should be accurately located and held under pressure while the adhesive is setting ● The width of grooves machined in CaberWood MDF should be limited to about one third of the thickness of the board ● The depth of groove should be about one half of the board thickness ● Adhesive bonded joints should be

CaberWood MDF can be fixed using conventional dry lining techniques. For best results, follow these recommendations: ● Before fixing, condition the board for a minimum of 24 hours in the area of use ● An expansion gap of 10mm or 2.5mm per metre (whichever is the greater) must be allowed, on length and width

GET MORE DETAILS ON NORBORD AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN092

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ADE’S TOP WINDOW & DOOR TIPS

No. 14

! ’ L L A ‘C S ’ N A I R D A

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

LET THE SUN SHINE IN! Quickslide guides you through the latest garden door options As I sit here with quill poised for my next column, despite still being in the throes of winter the rain has stopped for a few days, the sun is shining and my thoughts turn to garden doors – and so will thousands of homeowners throughout the UK. You should be ready for them with the latest ideas and innovations. Where once there was just the perennial white aluminium sliding patio door, now there are sliders, bi-folds and French doors in every shape and material and in every colour and finish imaginable…these are what you should look out for…

Slip n Slide The good old sliding patio door remains a favourite, despite the onslaught of various fancy bi-folds and for good reason too. Sliding patio doors let in more sunlight with larger, unrestricted glass areas, are simple to fit and operate and, whilst they can’t be opened fully like bi-folds, neither do they require space for the folding and storing of the leaves. They are a very attractive solution for large openings. Modern, slimline aluminium profiles and nicely weighted PVCu systems, slick operation (even electrically operated) and nicely damped handles and hardware, make sliders an excellent bet for most properties. Available in woodgrain foil, or with a contemporary smooth finish, these doors can be supplied in pretty much any RAL colour, whether aluminium or PVCu. Generally they are available in

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configurations of two to four sections in various panel widths and security these days is better than ever, with PAS24 upgrades available for any homeowners looking for extra assurance about security.

Go French! Always the choice for smaller openings, but also in period homes where sliders and bi-folds just do not suit a more classical property. Having said that, French Doors can be made to look traditional or contemporary, depending on the material the customer chooses – again aluminum or PVCu styles in various formats are available. Have a look at the latest ‘flush’ versions, which are being chosen in ever increasing numbers, for example. And, of course, timber French

Doors are a must in conservation properties, and these have never been better, with the old reputation of ‘rotten from new’ a thing of the past. Woodgrain foils have never looked more realistic and again, offering any colour that Mr & Mrs Smith want to match their new designer kitchen can

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● ●

●

● ● ●

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be a clincher for the job. And, of course, our old friend ‘PAS24’ will ensure that when your customer locks up for the night, you can assure them they are as burglar-proof as any can be.

Get the ‘Grand’ Design!

Perhaps we should change the name of ‘bi-folding doors’ to ‘Kevin McCloud Doors’ because the ubiquitous presenter of the addictive TV home design programme Grand Designs is widely credited with their popularisation. Bi-folds are suitable for any home as they offer the greatest choice of width and height flexibility; a two panel version can even replace a French door and, due to their popularity, prices have come tumbling down in recent years, even for quality systems. But, of course, the main feature of bifolds is that they can be folded back to provide a pillarless, unobstructed opening between the home and the garden. Two to eight sections mean that

even the widest opening can be created for spectacular effect. At Quickslide we often get questions surrounding security on bi-folds; homeowners tend to worry more due to the large opening area, but with our old friend PAS24 that really is not an issue, with the doors becoming as secure as is possible. Bi-folds come in so many designs these days, although only closer study will reveal the differences between the various brands. Nonetheless, great strides continue to be made in the hardware – the most crucial element in any bi-fold – and in my view buying cheap is likely to bring a ton of pain down upon you with sticking, grungy doors that are hard to operate and secure. And sometimes within weeks of installation. Although available in PVCu and indeed, timber, our choice is always for aluminum, a material that simply

●

AND HERE’S SOME OF THE LATEST THINGS TO LOOK OUT FOR… Have a good look at the new ‘Flush’ styles There are individual sliding and folding bi-fold panels (which we do not supply) but make sure you buy from a reputable manufacturer with cast iron guarantees Look out for new woodgrains on our PVCu doors: English Oak, Nut Tree, Agate Grey Offer your customers ‘Statement’ colours: any RAL colour they like Textured finishes on aluminium are something new to consider Dual Colour – it isn’t new but something worth mentioning to enable perfect matching to other frames on the outside and decorations on the inside Surface bars on aluminium create a ‘Scandi-tiled’ appearance – this is something that we’re beginning to see a lot of on bi-fold doors. Heritage frames in aluminium – as slim as possible. On our sliding doors the customer can even opt for a super slim midrail to allow for a slimmer appearance that allows for a greater glass area. Integral blinds – that is blinds incorporated within the insulated glass units – they look great, prevent heat build up when the doors are shut on sunny days, and will increase your reputation and margin too

provides the best torsional rigidity with the slimmest sections. Why is this important? Well, although most garden doors are chosen for their effect when open, the fact is that the British weather dictates that they will spend more time closed. And bi-folds by their nature use more profiles in their manufacture, so the slimmer the section, the less intrusive will the frames be when they are closed. That might sound pernickety but believe me it’s important, but only understood after the novelty of the doors wears off.

TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT QUICKSLIDE VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN093

PROFESSIONAL BUILDER MARCH 2020 93

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GRANTS & FINANCIAL SOLUTIONS

If you are interested in supporting the Rainy Day Trust please contact us:

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“Real solutions for real people” For many people surviving on a low income or pension, making ends meet can be a real struggle.

many. That’s why we offer grants to help people through difﬁcult times.

When things go wrong, they can go wrong very quickly. When something like a washing machine breaks down, the cost of a new one can be out of reach. Repairing a leaking roof or a broken down car is simply unaffordable for

We assess each applicant individually, and tailor our help to that person’s needs. The service is completely conﬁdential. Our helpline is open 5 days a week from 9am until 5pm and is reached by calling our helpline.

Call us on 0203 192 0486 or visit www.rainydaytrust.org.uk

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Professional BUILDING ■ FLOORING ■ PLUMBING ■ ROOFING ■ CARPENTRY ■ PAINTING AND DECORATING ■

Digital digest The unique distribution method of Professional Builder magazine has always put us right in front of the nation’s active tradespeople, and now there are more ways than ever to access all the latest industry insights, and information on tools and materials. Whether it’s through social media or our website wherever you are, and whatever you’re doing, you can keep right up to date. We take a look at what’s grabbed your attention in recent weeks.

W www.probuildermag.co.uk If you think that walls are the only problem area for damp then think again, because concrete floors can be equally susceptible. Safeguard Europe helps you tackle the issue. VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BN104 FOR MORE INFORMATION

@PB_mag Introducing Condensate Pro Introducing Condensate Pro – plumbing and heating engineer, Dave Smith has developed a new product to help prevent condensate pipes from freezing.

W www.probuildermag.co.uk Honest John advises the trades on the pros and cons of signwriting your van VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BN094 FOR MORE INFORMATION

Professional

www.facebook.com/ probuilderonline/ Tradesmen are looking to step out in style on site with Snickers hoodies

LIVE! It’s show time at Alexandra Palace with Professional Builder Live VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BN105 FOR MORE INFORMATION

SEE IT SEARCH IT SHARE IT @PB_mag

@probuildermag

www.facebook.com/probuilderonline

Wwww.probuildermag.co.uk I

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GOOD HEALTH NO.11 AGINA

Let’s talk about

ANGINA...

...CONTINUING OUR LOOK AT BLOOD PRESSURE AND HEART

Last month’s article covered the HELP, ANGINA IS THIS MONTH’S EXAMINATION dangers of high cholesterol. No matter how old you are it Anybody that has these is worth taking steps to symptoms should make an continue protecting the appointment with their GP. This health of your heart. This appointment would normally month we cover the condition involve an examination that angina – what it is, the includes a blood pressure check. symptoms and what to do if Further tests would also be you suspect you have it. organised, including blood tests Angina is a condition caused by and a heart tracing (ECG). Often, a lack of blood flow to the heart referral to a hospital clinic for further muscle. The blood vessels that supply tests is also needed to further assess the the heart muscle can become narrowed as blood flow to the heart muscle. they block up with cholesterols. As we Angina can be treated with medications and exercise or exert ourselves, the heart muscle beats lifestyle changes. Making healthy food choices, losing faster to pump more blood around the body. With angina, blood weight, reducing cholesterol and stopping smoking are advised. cannot flow to the heart muscle well enough because of the One medication that is often used in angina is a spray called narrowed blood vessels. This lack of blood flow can be felt as GTN (glyceryl trinitrate) which is sprayed under the tongue when chest pain, which can be described as “tight”, “heavy” or “dull”. angina symptoms start. It works by relaxing the blood vessels The pain can also sometimes be felt in the jaw or down the left and increasing the blood flow to the heart muscle. It normally arm. Other symptoms that may be associated with angina are works quickly to relieve symptoms but may make the person feeling sick, feeling excessively breathless on exertion, feeling taking it feel light-headed or have a headache. This is because it tired and having upper abdominal pains. It is possible not to have lowers the blood pressure. If someone is diagnosed with angina, chest pain but to have the other symptoms and still have angina. taking aspirin, blood pressure medications and statins to lower Angina can often happen if a person is exerting themselves cholesterol may all be recommended to prevent a heart attack physically or if they are under stress. The symptoms can often or stroke from happening. settle down within minutes if the person stops the activity and Finally, chest pains can be caused by several different rests. This is known as ‘stable angina’. People that have this can problems. If you, or anyone you know, develops severe sudden find it is predictable – they know what will cause their symptoms. onset central chest pain, associated with sweating, being sick, Angina can also be ‘unstable’; this is feeling dizzy or being generally unwell, I when symptoms happen frequently and would always advise calling a 999 “Angina can be treated with are not related to activity or exercise. If emergency ambulance – this is in case the medications and lifestyle changes. you have unstable angina the symptoms chest pain relates to a heart attack rather might not improve with rest or prescribed Making healthy food choices, losing than angina. A heart attack happens when medications. Unstable angina means that there is a complete blockage of a blood weight, reducing cholesterol and you are at higher risk of having a heart vessel and there is no blood supply to that attack or a stroke so often hospital area of heart muscle which may cause the stopping smoking are advised.” admission is required to manage this. heart to stop working properly. It is a There are several risk factors for medical emergency. angina and these are the same for other heart diseases too: Next time, to round up this series on blood pressure and ● Having a family history of heart disease heart health, the topic will be about ‘cerebrovascular disease’ ● Age also known as stroke disease. I have mentioned aiming to ● Smoking reduce the risk of having a stroke in relation to blood pressure ● Having high cholesterol and high cholesterol so this will be explored further. ● Lack of exercise GET MORE DETAILS BY VISITING: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN095

96 MARCH 2020 PROFESSIONAL BUILDER

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wise howell

TRADE MEDIA Why do rooms have doors? Nobody seems to

NHBC FOUNDATION THERMAL IMAGING REPORT GUIDE

In a typical existing British home, up to one third of the heat produced by the heating system can be lost through the roof, ceiling and walls. When carried out properly, a thermographic survey can help identify problem areas. That’s why the NHBC Foundation, in collaboration with BSRIA, has published a brand-new guide for this increasingly useful technology. It identifies what a good thermographic survey should include, gives examples of typical thermal imagery and highlights what makes a successful report. FOR MORE DETAILS ENTER: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN096

SLIDING AND FOLDING DOOR HARDWARE It’s the design, flexible functionality options and easy installation which have made the P C Henderson Pocket Door Pro and Husky Soft Stop systems popular with installers, according to the manufacturer. Now, tradespeople can see for themselves with the launch of two new installation videos.

FOR YOUR COMPLETE INSTALLATION GUIDE TO THE HUSKY SOFT STOP VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN097 FOR THE POCKET DOOR ENTER: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN098

NORBORD STERLINGOSB ZERO

Want to learn more about how engineered wood-based panel products are made? The continuous line production process of Norbord’s SterlingOSB Zero is now the subject of an educational video. Beginning with timber logs, the video depicts how this raw form eventually becomes the popular finished product, which is subsequently packed and dispatched from the warehouse. A ring strander is used to shred wood chips into strands, giving the material its instantly recognisable appearance. A rotary drum dryer then reduces the moisture content to below 4 per cent, whilst the use of a metal detector ensures that any ferrous material is removed. TO WATCH THE EDUCATIONAL VIDEO VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN099

want to close them, and some householders even take them off their hinges and stack them up in the garage. I grew up in a draughty house. We had no central heating, and the main source of warmth was the coal fire in the front room. The whole family gathered around it. Your face was pink and toasted, and your back was blue and shivering. Whenever anyone entered or left that one warm room the cry of, “shut that door” would ring out. Until recent times – with insulation, draught-proofing, and central heating – telling people to shut the door would have been a universal cry across the northern hemisphere. It developed its own humour and slang. “Were you born in a barn?” was a common put-down for miscreants who dared leave the door ajar. And, “Put the wood in the hole!” was a favourite – especially of my Uncle Fred, who was famously mean, and rationed his family to one coal scuttle per day, regardless of the outside temperature. (Today, Fred would be given an award for his contribution to reducing the use of fossil fuels.) Even today, with our warm, centrally-heated homes, there are other good reasons for closing internal doors. Noise, smells, moisture – these are three big ones in domestic properties. I’ll leave the noise and the smells to the individual households to sort out amongst themselves. They’re obvious, really. However, kitchen cooking smells in the upstairs bedrooms

are also a symptom of moisture transfer – from the warm kitchen to the cooler bedrooms – where many people have swallowed the myth that it’s a good idea to turn down the thermostatic radiator valves in order to “save money”. That can lead to condensation dripping down the window glass – which is itself a symptom of interstitial condensation taking place within the depth of the external walls, which can lead to mould and wood rot blah blah blah. (Regular readers of this column – hello to both of you – will have heard me ranting on about this enough times already.) But when I survey houses for dampness problems, I almost always detect condensation in the upstairs bedrooms, and observe that the kitchen door and the bathroom doors are all left wide open. I always bring this to the clients’ attention. They always reply that the doors are usually kept closed. I always respond that they’re not closed now, are they? And what about fire risk? We’ve all seen self-closing fire doors propped open with fire extinguishers, and had a laugh about it. But after Grenfell, that’s not such a laughing matter. And then again, why do toilet seats have lids, when nobody closes them? Don’t get me started on that one.

Jeff Howell

E-mail Jeff via his website www.askjeff.co.uk

FOR MORE DETAILS ENTER: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN100

PROFESSIONAL BUILDER MARCH 2020 97

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TRADE MEDIA

SAFEGUARD EUROPE DESIGNING FOR FLOOD RESILIENCE AND RESISTANCE

With more than 5 million homes in England and Wales at risk of flooding, Safeguard Europe has produced a simple yet definitive guide to protecting property: Designing for Flood Resilience and Resistance.The company has created several flood management systems which illustrate the various mechanisms by which flood water can enter a property and how to stop it, as well as detailing the internal and external remedial works necessary for habitable reinstatement. TO DOWNLOAD THE FREE GUIDE VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN101

PURE VISTA WEBSITE

Detailed information about its glass balustrade products can be found on the new look Pure Vista website. Installers can benefit from a comprehensive product technical downloads section, and a new blog with the latest news and trends from the sector. The company is a market leading manufacturer of frameless glass balustrade solutions with over thirteen years’ experience designing and manufacturing glass railing systems. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN102

SIEVI 2020 PRODUCT CATALOGUE

The new AirRacer range of footwear from Sievi is just one of the innovations in the company’s new 2020 catalogue. A combination of the manufacturer’s FlexEnergy shockabsorbing heel, with its patented SieviAir sole offers breathability and comfort, whilst three width fittings ensure an optimum fit. DOWNLOAD THE BROCHURE AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BN103

98 MARCH 2020 PROFESSIONAL BUILDER

Advertisement index A. Proctor Group ................................................................ (page 30) Aanco UK Ltd........................................................................ (page 33) Aanco UK Ltd ...................................................................... (page 35) Actis................................................................................................ (page Akzo Nobel ...................................................... (ICI Paints) (page 73) Altaterra Kft .......................................................................... (page 44) Andreas Stihl Ltd ................................................................ (page 45) Bond It.................................................................................... (page 42) Buckler Boots Ltd................................................................ (page 66) Build Aviator............................................................................ (page 4) Dickies.................................................................................... (page 62) Draper Tools Ltd ................................................................ (page 60) Eclisse UK .............................................................................. (page 19) Ecotherm Insulation Ltd .................................................... (page 49) F. Engel Workwear.............................................................. (page 64) Fast Foam ............................................................................ (page 80) Federation of Master Builders........................ (inside front cover) Fischer Fixings Ltd.............................................................. (page 69) Ford Motor Co Ltd .............................................................. (page 23) Garador .................................................................................. (page 87) Grass Concrete.................................................................... (page 80) Hexstone .............................................................................. (page 70) Hilton Banks Ltd .................................................................. (page 15) Hoppings Softwood Products PLC .................................. (page 81) Makita (UK) Ltd .................................................................... (page 20) Marley Ltd.............................................................................. (page 40) Marmox UK Ltd .................................................................... (page 47) Metabo (UK) Ltd .................................................................. (page 74) Metabo (UK) Ltd .................................................................. (page 75) Nissan UK Ltd ...................................................................... (page 27) Peugeot Motor Company PLC.......................................... (page 16) Plumb Partners Group Ltd ................................................ (page 13) Pnu-Point Ltd ........................................................................ (page 64) Pro Builder Live .................................................................. (page 90) Quickslide ................................................................................ (page 5) RainClear Systems Ltd ...................................................... (page 84) Robert Bosch Ltd ................................................................ (page 65) Rocket Door Frames .......................................................... (page 22) Safeguard Europe .............................................................. (page 68) Sherwin Williams ................................................................ (page 39) Shurtape UK Ltd .................................................................. (page 58) Sievin Jalkine OY ................................................................ (page 70) Sika Everbuild ...................................................................... (page 51) Sika Everbuild ...................................................................... (page 53) Sika Everbuild ...................................................................... (page 55) Sika Everbuild ...................................................................... (page 57) Simpson Strong Tie ............................................................ (page 66) Snickers Workwear .............................................................. (page 8) Snug Solutions Ltd.............................................................. (page 84) Toolfair Exhibition ................................................................ (page94) Toupret (UK) Ltd .................................. (page outside back cover) TuffX Processed Glass Ltd .............................................. (page 36) Vauxhall Motors Ltd ........................................................ (pages 6,7) Wavin ...................................................................................... (page 10) Wunda Group PLC .............................................................. (page 61)

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WANT TO KNOW MORE? TO HELP YOU FIND OUT MORE ABOUT ANYTHING YOU’VE SEEN IN THIS ISSUE, WE’VE INTRODUCED A NEW DIGITAL INFORMATION SERVICE. RDR.LINK IS DESIGNED TO GET YOU FASTER ACCESS STRAIGHT TO THE EXACT ONLINE PLATFORM THAT HAS THE SPECIFIC INFORMATION YOU WANT. FROM VIDEOS TO TECHNICAL GUIDES, PDF’S TO PODCASTS – RDR.LINK WILL TAKE YOU STRAIGHT THERE.

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