Professional Builder September 19 by Hamerville Media Group

FRE E TO THE TRA DE

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

SEPTEMBER 2019

ROOFING, FLOORING & INSULATION Going the extra ‘tile’!

MASONRY MATERIALS & LANDSCAPING The path finders!

...What the impending changes mean FOR you and your business... see inside for details

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Total Average Net Distribution 119,884 1 January 2018 – 31 June 2018

SEPTEMBER 2019 VOL. 41 NO.8 @PB_mag

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REGULARS 9 11 14 16 46 90 111 112 113

Editor’s Viewpoint News Readers’ Letters Tool Theft Update Free for All Makita: Tool Technology NEW Digital Digest The Doctor’s Advice Wise Howell

22 SPECIAL REPORTS 19 Meet the Builder Serving His Country 22 For Old Times’ Sake: Preserving Listed Buildings 25 Inventors’ Corner: Inventors’ Corner Meet the Attic Eye 29 HB42: Tackling Construction Waste 32 What You Need to Know About Timber Treatment 35 FMB Awards

BUSINESS SOLUTIONS 39 Your Guide to the Changes to VAT 43 ASC: Development Finance Explained

HEALTH & SAFETY 44 Hellberg Ear Protection

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

In it to win it... page 46 see

PRODUCTS & BUILDING MATERIALS

48 ROOFING, FLOORING & INSULATION 48 Welcome to Cupa Pizarras’ Slate Quarry 51 Ubbink: Lead-Free Flashing 54 Marley: Ventilation Tips 56 BMI: 180 Years of Heritage 59 Kingspan: Insulating Basements 63 Insulating Homes with Rockwool 66 Meet Fassa Bortolo 69 Armacell: Fitting Pipe Insulation 70 NEW PRODUCTS

86 General Building Products 107 Dulux Advertorial Feature 108 In the Boardroom with Norbord 109 Safeguard: The Problems Replastering Can Cause 110 Quickslide: Accreditation 113 Trade Media

95 TOOLS, EQUIPMENT & WORKWEAR

88 Tools & Equipment Products 92 Festool: SawStop Technology 95 Tibby Tests Out Snickers Workwear

73 MASONRY MATERIALS & LANDSCAPING

BUILDERS’ VEHICLES 73 Forterra: Brick Specials 97 Honest John: 76 LTP: Maintaining Selling Your Van Porcelain Tiles 98 Peugeot’s Reverse Challenge 79 Dealing with Japanese 100 Ford: Hybrid Van Knotweed 82 Installing Birkdale Fence Posts 103 Van Guard: Securing Your Van 106 Isuzu’s D-Max Yukon Reviewed 85 NEW PRODUCTS

PROFESSIONAL BUILDER SEPTEMBER 2019 3

MANAGING EDITOR TERRY SMITH EMAIL: tsmith@hamerville.co.uk

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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. © 2019 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

A lightbulb moment! How many men does it take to change a lightbulb? Well, these days apparently, it’s more to do with the age of the individuals involved than any concerns about lumens or wattage. Much under thirty and there may be a problem, in your fifties... Well, let’s just say it’s an enlightened generation in more ways than one. In fact, a new survey into the nation’s DIY habits reveals millions of young men haven’t a clue how to do simple household tasks, be it rewiring a plug, bleeding a radiator, or unblocking a sink. Interestingly, it would appear that DIY is very rapidly being replaced by AYF (Ask Your Father) because it’s only the older generation who have the confidence and necessary skills to maintain their homes. For the survey, which was commissioned by the Water Regulation Advisory Scheme (WRAS), a cross section of the UK male population were quizzed on their basic knowledge, and the results were broken down into two distinct groups, those aged 18-34 and the over 55s. On just about every task younger men did significantly worse. For instance, around a third of young adults don’t know how to replace a shower head, whereas 65 per cent of those in their sixth decade would be confident “As more and more young with the same task. Similar results were obtained across a broad spectrum of what people struggle to grasp the could be deemed simple DIY tasks, including rudiments of even basic DIY fixing a squeaky door, replacing a leaky tap, skills, the tradesperson is repairing a hole in the wall and even stabilising ideally placed to clean up in wobbly furniture. more ways than one.” A number of modern lifestyle factors are clearly at work here, including what is becoming known as “Generation Rent”. The profound obstacle of getting a foot on the property ladder these days is responsible for creating a more transient nation of people who, perhaps understandably, are losing the inclination to carry out straightforward repairs to properties in which they have little long term financial stakeholding. Perhaps even more troubling, however, are the consistent failings of our education system, particularly since the millennium, to equip school leavers with basic everyday practical skills. Learning to wire a plug, writing a letter, filling in a form or knowing how to read a public transport timetable is surely no less important in the grand scheme of things than algebra or logarithms. Yet we have become obsessed in schooling young people in the art of passing exams, and the pursuit of often worthless degrees, rather than in the more mundane realities of day-to-day living. All of which, of course, from a purely selfish standpoint is extremely good news for anyone contemplating, or indeed currently enjoying, a livelihood within the construction industry. An inescapable implication of the survey is that, for the foreseeable future, the great British public will increasingly have to call in the professionals, and indeed pay a healthy premium for the privilege, to do even these simple tasks because, inevitably, the older experienced generations won’t be around to help them. Of course, the concept of the Biddy (Buy It Don’t Do It Yourself) has been around for quite a while now, but this is further indisputable evidence that the nation has well and truly fallen out of love with even basic DIY. And perhaps it’s finally OK for a large percentage of the UK male population to come out of that wobbly old closet and say they really don’t like doing it for themselves.

PROFESSIONAL BUILDER SEPTEMBER 2019 9

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News Professional Builder

A message to ‘Boris the Builder’

Problem plastic NFB: We must make single-use plastic a thing of the past.

In construction, the reliance on single-use plastic has been drastically declining. Pipes and drains are made out of recyclable plastics, while many insulation materials contain recycled materials and single-use packaging only makes up a third of waste. However, as an industry, construction is

MPs call for action to tackle increase in deaths at work. The All-Party Parliamentary Group on Working at Height has recently expressed concern at statistics from the HSE showing that fatal injuries in the workplace have risen in the last year. This follows the publication of the Group’s own report on the subject. The statistics show that a total of 147 workers were killed at work in Great Britain in 2018/2019, representing a rise of 6 on the year before. Speaking about the statistics, Chair of the APPG, Alison

Last call

the second largest consumer of plastic behind retail. A proposed change in the law banning some single-use plastics will see a dramatic drop in their use, but the Government must see its role as stimulating investment and opportunity in material sciences and embracing new ways of recycling plastic. Richard Beresford, NFB: “From recycledplastic roads and homes made out of recyclable materials to waste sorting and on-site recycling, the construction industry is a key player in solving the challenges plastic poses to society and the environment. Turn to page 29 to see how one leading manufacturer is tackling the problem head on! www.rdr.link/BH078

When it comes to the broken housing market and the new PM, FMB asks: Can he fix it? Brian Berry, FMB: “Boris the builder must build columns instead of writing them if he is to fix the housing crisis and restore the hope of home ownership to a generation. We will only reach the number of good quality homes we need, and at the rate we need them, if local house builders are freed up to build as many homes as the large house builders. We want to see Boris bring down the barriers facing construction SMEs, including those who repair and maintain our homes.”

Cash Landing Thewliss MP said: “These statistics show that this issue is not going away. It is imperative that the Government takes forward the recommendations made in our report which have been devised with input from industry and key stakeholders.”

Mortar Shout About! Brick manufacturing hits 10-year high. The UK is manufacturing the highest number of bricks for the housebuilding, RMI and commercial sectors in over a decade according to experts at the recent Independent Builders’ Merchant Forum, hosted by Ibstock. Simon Taylor, Ibstock: “In 2018, UK manufacturers produced over two billion bricks in total, which is the highest production output since before the recession hit in 2008. In 2019, the industry as a whole will be on course to manufacture 2.6 billion bricks as confidence continues to grow.”

Self-employed tradespeople exposed to unnecessary financial risk. A large number of the UK’s selfemployed tradespeople could be personally exposed to the various risks associated with running a business, exclusive research carried out by self-employment tax specialist, Qdos, has revealed. The insight suggests that nearly one in three (29 per cent) self-employed workers surveyed do not hold insurance at all. Seb Maley, Qdos: “If an incident does happen, you will be personally liable should you not hold insurance.”

PROFESSIONAL BUILDER SEPTEMBER 2019 11

Professional Builder

News Home Run Highest new home registrations in 12 years, reports NHBC.

Earning Your Way Happy days for self-employed tradespeople. Weekly earnings for freelance tradespeople in the construction sector increased in June, according to latest figures released by Hudson Contract. Analysis of payroll data for more than 2,200 construction companies in England and Wales reveals a 6.8 per cent month-onmonth increase to an average of £893. The North East region was the biggest winner with weekly earnings rising by 10 per cent to £770, followed by Yorkshire and Humber, up 8.9 per cent to £842.

promised land Paint company launches new customer guarantee. A new Dulux Promise icon is appearing on cans of the firm’s paint in trade accounts nationwide, offering a commitment to professionals that the products will deliver perfect colour, a uniform finish and the stated coverage, or else they will receive a voucher for a replacement product. The new initiative will apply to Dulux Trade Vinyl Matt and Flat Matt, as well as Diamond Matt and Diamond Eggshell products over 500ml.

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The Government has not properly prepared the construction industry for major VAT changes coming in October and needs to delay their implementation to avoid chaos, the FMB has said in a letter to the Financial Secretary to the Treasury. New FMB data shows that over two-thirds of construction SMEs have not even heard of reverse charge VAT. Turn to page 39 to find out more about how the VAT changes could affect you.

DIY Bother? Research reveals extent of DIY disasters. New research undertaken in the UK by www.bidvine.com has found the most common DIY mishaps made by Britons include electrocuting themselves and breaking doors and door frames. What’s more, one-third of British homeowners admitted to having had to visit A&E due to attempting jobs around the house themselves that went wrong. It was also found that 62 per cent of Britons have had an accident of sorts while doing DIY in their own home. © Rawpixel/Adobe Stock

Builders and developers registered the highest number of new homes for 12 years during the last three months, recording more than 43,000 new homes in the UK, according to the latest figures from NHBC, with inward investment in the rental sector driving much of the growth. 43,438 new homes were registered between April and June 2019, 12 per cent up on the same period last year (38,937) and the highest since Q4 2007 when 43,525 were registered. Steve Wood, NHBC: “It is great to see this sign of confidence in new-build housing and that the positive start to the year has continued into the summer. The combination of the growing private rental sector and on-going investment into the UK market is helping to boost new home registrations.”

Taxing Times Delay disruptive VAT changes to avoid construction chaos, warns FMB.

Efficiency Drive Manufacturer launches scrappage scheme to take older vehicles off the road. A new Ford scrappage scheme has been launched to replace older, less fuel-efficient vehicles with cleaner, fuel-efficient vehicles. LCV customers can save £2,000 (excluding VAT) on selected new Ford vehicles. Any make of passenger vehicle or commercial vehicle is eligible for the scheme if registered on or before December 31, 2012.

Let the Build Off Begin Nominate your apprentice for the HiKOKI Build Off. Young tradespeople are being urged to get building and win some powerful 18V tools in the HiKOKI Power Tools College Build Off. HiKOKI is asking young tradespeople to design a product or tool that is useful to them in their everyday job. It could be a workbench, an unusual toolbox, an upcycled vehicle or something weird and wonderful that catches the judges’ eye. Whatever you choose to design, you need to have the skills to build it because the best designers will be invited to HiKOKI’s Milton Keynes HQ to build their creations at the Build Off Final this winter. Just post your design to Instagram using the hashtag #HiKOKIBuildOff tagging @HiKOKIUK for your chance to get to the final. Don’t forget to post what the item is and what it does.

In the Frame Heritage property owners at risk from illegally designed windows. Following a spate of cases across Scotland and the rest of the UK, leading reputable window manufacturers are calling for a crackdown on an ‘epidemic’ of rogue firms. With many historic property owners wanting to move from single to double glazing, disreputable firms are placing non-compliant glazed units inside frames which are not designed to cope with the size and weight of double-glazed units. This then leads to misting and failing in the months after installation. Installers must take care to ensure that the windows they are installing are up to code.

Home Advantage In for the Skill Research reveals the most profitable home improvements.

£17.8m construction project to attract, train and retain new talent.

Housing agents Sellhousefast.uk has investigated which home improvements add the most value to a property. Updating the kitchen can add 5.5 per cent, a new roof adds 3.1 per cent, the bathroom 2.6 per cent and improving the garden up to 1.4 per cent. Going further, a new bedroom can add 11.2 per cent.

UK construction is set to receive a £17.8m investment to support employers in training and retraining more skilled workers to help the industry face the skills challenges of the future. CITB Onsite Experience Commission will help the construction industry tackle the skills gap by providing 18,000 site-ready workers and help it to grow more of its own workforce. The industry is being invited to apply for funding over the coming months.

The Digital Age As you may have noticed over the past couple of issues, Professional Builder has introduced a new and improved method for its readers to access more information about articles, products and news stories that are important to you. All you have to do is type in the rdr.link URL at the bottom of each item into your web browser search bar or directly on Google and we’ll take you directly to the page you need. It’s the easiest way to find out more about the tools and products you love. What’s more, we have streamlined our competitions page online. From now on you will be able to enter all of our great giveaways in one go! That means you only have to enter your details once. If you have any thoughts or suggestions on our new reader system, we’d love for you to get in touch. Email us at pb@hamerville.co.uk

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Professional Builder, Regal House, Regal Way, Watford, Herts, WD24 4YF. Through our extensive manufacturer network, Professional Builder has access to some of the best technical brains in the industry. If we don’t know the answer to a building-related problem ourselves, we almost certainly know someone who does. If something is troubling you, or if you have any other comments on the world of building, let’s hear it.

Professional

Cam paign FIGHTING

TOOL THEFT

TOGETHER

THIEVES IN THE NIGHT Dear Professional Builder After reading your article in the March edition of Professional Builder on tool theft, I would like to say it’s about time this issue has been highlighted. How to break into even the newest vans is common knowledge, with videos on YouTube showing step-by-step instructional videos. The poor tradesperson is not only financially penalised, but then the insurance company hits them when they are down, as a claim made often results in increases in the cost of a policy. With no tools to carry on, they may equally lose a day or two of work, all of which proves to be very expensive and stressful. We are paying anywhere between £16,000 – £35,000 for a commercial vehicle and they can be broken into in seconds, and the majority of manufacturers are aware of this, as they have leaflets in their showrooms for aftermarket security products. Making the lock barrels from stainless steel instead of nickel so they won’t snap as easy, or installing tamper plates or cable loom plates would be a good place to start. Stickers like “No Tools Left in Vehicle” are not a deterrent, and you might as well leave the back doors open so they can see there is nothing stored in there. Please continue your campaign and press the manufacturers. ● Tony Carroll MCIOB, TCBuilding Professionals PB: Your sentiments will be shared by many and we will certainly continue to highlight the issue in Professional Builder. If any other tradespeople would like to share their experience, or if you have an idea for deterring thieves, drop us a line at pb@hamerville.co.uk

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BUCKET LIST Dear Professional Builder I note with interest the bucket holder by plasterer Gary Hanmer, as featured in May’s Professional Builder. As a fellow spreader, I have been using an old setting bucket for the last 20 years. I would suggest simply cutting the bottom off and cut down the side from top to bottom and roll up. Take a rubble bag, or old sand bag, place inside, and let it spring back to round. This then sits squarely on the floor leaving your hands free. An added bonus is the sides of the bag are protected from sharp edges such as bead off cuts or tiles. When full just pull up and out! ● Anon PB: If any other builders have any ideas as to how to make the job of tidying up at the end of the day just that little bit easier then do let us know.

DUST IN TIME Dear Professional Builder The HMRC and VAT people say that we have to pay VAT on dust attachments and vacuum cleaners, yet it is a safety measure for the workers. In light of government initiatives to try to prevent health problems in the first place, I would like to see the rule changed. ● Robert Barker, Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire PB: The problems of dust on site have become a very high priority on site for the HSE so this would be a sensible measure. VAT is always a contentious issue, wherever it is levied and you can read more about some future changes that could affect you on page 39.

Professional

Cam paign FIGHTING

TOOL THEFT

TOGETHER

When it comes to the fight against thieves, a father and son team are taking the battle to the criminals, with the launch of their own van locking system. Professional Builder’s Lee Jones talks to the westcountry tradesmen about their development.

t is an all too familiar tale, and one which almost every tradesman will be able to lament. When carpenter, Robert Painter left his van unattended he was to become one of an ever growing fraternity of builders who have been the victims of tool theft, but what sets him and his father and fellow builder, Bobby apart is a determination to find a solution. “I was working in a fairly affluent part of Bristol, and my van was parked right outside the job,” recalls the Somersetbased chippie. “When I went back to the vehicle at lunchtime to get my wallet I was surprised to discover it was unlocked, and my mitre saw and nail gun were gone.” Robert had been the victim of an intruder armed with a tibby key, a piece of kit that can be picked up for peanuts on the internet, but that can cause untold damage to a builder’s business. “In monetary terms it was around £1,500 worth, but the impact on your ability to carry on with on-going projects is also a big problem. There’s no chance of claiming from the insurer, because they’ll

Carpenter, Robert Painter and his father, Bobby are the team behind Van Security Systems (VSS)

always find a way to not pay out and, once the anger had subsided, I started to think of ways I could protect myself in the future. I’ve never liked the idea of a manual deadlock fitted to the outside of the van, because that demonstrates that you might well have something to hide, so what we were looking for was a remote deadlock that could be activated with one click of button, but will not betray its presence visually.” The idea might have been Robert’s but the busy tradesman put the practicalities in the hands of Bobby. He

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explains what would become the Van Security Systems’ (VSS) approach. “Standard central locking devices work via a car actuator, which will typically push out a lock a maximum of 20mm, but there’s no resistance in the device. What we were looking for was something that was independent from the existing factory fitting, but was far more heavy duty, and would defy a sustained attack.” With its own separate control box, the Van Security Systems design is completely separate from the vehicle’s existing locking infrastructure, so if thieves overcome the central locking the deadbolts stay locked. The 110mm x 15mm stainless steel bolt will shoot out 40mm or 67mm, depending on the size specified, and there are over 28 million rolling codes on the remote fob, which makes the whole system very secure. All of the electronics are designed and manufactured in-house, but the lock itself can be installed by a novice.

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“We went to a scrap yard and installed our system to the rear doors of a van,” Bobby recalls. “We basically then went at it with first a 3ft and then a 6ft crowbar, and we just couldn’t get through. Of course, if someone wants to get into a van they will, but you also have to factor in the amount of time it takes for an intruder to gain access. If they think they’re going to be interrupted in their work they’ll just move on to easier pickings.” Bobby and Robert might have had a workable system, but other complications lay in wait. Every individual model of what is now a considerable list of van manufacturers will have a subtly different door design, and that’s why Robert had to manufacture a bespoke lock for each. “We’re actually up to 25 different locks now, and that’s what really takes the time – making measurements of a van, creating a template and then going back to ensure that everything fits adequately. The electronics are also complex and took time to perfect, but we now have a patent pending, we’re using high quality components from local manufacturers, and the system is available to buy now.” For further information on Van Security Systems (VSS) visit www.rdr.link/BH001

SPECIAL REPORT READERS’ LIVES

Out of Africa Both soldiers and builders, Royal Engineers recruits fulfil a unique and complex role. Professional Builder’s Lee Jones talks to Warrant Officer, Peter Egan about his experiences in one of the world’s most challenging environments.

he terrain of the Horn of Africa is as rugged and remote as it is cruel. Its withering climate and warring factions have ravaged the region for generations, but beneath that beating sun there is also hope. South Sudan, the world’s youngest country, has emerged from years of conflict, and it is here that 36 Engineer Regiment’s Peter Egan, and his team, are constructing lifesaving facilities for locals and UN peacekeepers alike. “Logistics is always challenging in a place as underdeveloped as the South Sudan, and finding materials can be a real issue,” explains Peter. “The country has virtually no road network, which means most supplies have to be flown in, so in many ways it’s like going back to a much earlier age of local and sustainable building. That’s why we aim to make our own adobe bricks from the local clay, for instance, which will dry very quickly when laid out individually in the sun. The buildings we make from these are actually in perfect synergy with their environment in that they are breathable, and will transport moisture and heat from a

structure, keeping them much cooler inside. The area is also rich in the limes necessary for mortar, and we’ve been investigating manufacturing these on site using a hot lime mix.” When you encounter a uniformed member of our armed forces you wouldn’t necessarily think builder, but in the case of the Royal Engineers that’s exactly the role many in the regiment perform – and much more besides, as Peter recounts.

“We have every trade you can think of within our ranks, and we were using virtually all of them in Africa, from brickies to carpenters and sparks. Not only that but we’re also the principal designers, contractors and surveyors on our projects, we have our own force protection units in place, and medical teams.” “Each team will spend a period of six to seven months in the country, and we’ve now erected two hospitals, but the projects we undertake can be incredibly diverse. We’ve installed the water supply to a UN refugee camp, for example, and built roads and accommodation blocks for UN staff. Prior to our deployment we sent one of our Military Plant Foremen to work with the Environment Agency, and by

The intense heat of the South Sudan means any mortar work has to be carried out at night

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SPECIAL REPORT READERS’ LIVES

utilising that experience our team designed a weir, which meant we could use the Nile as a hydro power source. It’s because we can be tasked with solving any number of problems that everything we do requires a huge range of skills.” Prior to its independence South Sudan was trapped in an internecine conflict of more than two decades. At a time when destruction was prized over building the indigenous population lost its construction skills knowledge, and it is Peter’s role to retrain those locals. “It’s about ensuring that the communities we leave behind are self-sufficient, and to do that we need to teach them how they can use their own natural resources – just as we are doing. It’s not just the newest country in the world, but also has the youngest population, with an average age of just 25, which means there’s only a relatively small number of working age people we can employ. In other countries we can sub-contract some tasks to the locals but we simply can’t do that in the South Sudan.” In fact, Peter’s team were working in an area where the last significant works were carried out in the days of empire by the British Army, and ensuring that a trained workforce can

deliver its own built environment in the future is a key part of their mission. What a serving Royal Engineer is required to learn is as diverse as it is highly skilled. Before recruits specialise in a particular trade, for instance, they are required to become combat engineers, which can include everything from demolition, bridge building and mine clearing. Once complete, a City & Guilds Level III or IV education awaits in any one of the mainstream construction disciplines, but qualifications can extend to degree level. All that knowledge is essential because the environments in which they are tasked with practising what they have learnt can prove very challenging indeed and, because they are only building anything when on deployment, it is a skillset that requires constant renewal with additional training through the course of their army career.

Always Vigilant South Sudan is presently relatively peaceful, but across the border in the Democratic Republic of Congo one of the continent’s worst outbreaks of Ebola is plaguing that country, and considerable vigilance is required as a consequence.

Continues Peter: “A lot of what we do is about improvisation, and using what’s readily available. At one stage there was a real risk that the disease would spread to the South Sudan so we needed to make sure we were ready for an Ebola outbreak, and fabricated isolation units from shipping containers in order to deal with it. “If we’re going to get anything done we also need to adapt our working methods to the environment. The heat in South Sudan is brutal, which means any mortar or concreting work has to be done at night, otherwise everything just goes off too quickly. At the same time, the area we were working in is prone to flooding, and the only practicable means of transport is the Nile, but that’s often bandit country, and can be a perilous route.” With 23 years of regimental experience, including postings in Afghanistan and Iraq, Peter is well versed in overcoming the challenge of an extreme climate and conflict zone combined. “Everywhere And Where Right And Glory Lead” reads the Royal Engineers’ motto and, given the vital task they perform in sites across the globe, it is a saying they are putting into practice.

For further information on the Royal Engineers visit www.rdr.link/BH002

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SPECIAL REPORT

VOL.1 NO.3

NEWS FOR TODAY

NEW SERIES

THE REST IS HISTORY OUR CELEBRATION OF THE INDIVIDUALS AND ORGANISATIONS WHO ARE DEDICATED TO THE PRESERVATION OF LISTED BUILDINGS AND PERIOD PROPERTIES CONTINUES WITH A LOOK AT THE WORK OF THE SOCIETY FOR THE PROTECTION OF ANCIENT BUILDINGS (SPAB). PROFESSIONAL BUILDER’S LEE JONES ATTENDED ONE OF THE CHARITY’S WORKING PARTIES TO FIND OUT MORE.

With as much as a fifth of our housing stock classified as historic (pre-1919), and many of the skills required to preserve them disappearing with the passage of time, it is now more important than ever that traditional building techniques are maintained. Founded in 1877 by the great champion of the arts and crafts movement, William Morris – and now boasting over 6,000 members – the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings is dedicated to promoting an ‘honest repair’. A policy of minimum intervention, whilst leaving the work of successive generations of tradespeople visible for posterity, is relentlessly pursued, and it is a calling that has helped conserve countless buildings. The SPAB Working Parties are amongst its most popular events, and are designed not just to preserve a particular structure, but to further the charity’s mission, whilst equally providing an educational opportunity. Leading experts in the fields of brick conservation, lime plastering and stonemasonry are in attendance, joined by a substantial group of volunteers, many of whom will camp on site whilst the week long project is in progress. Boxley Abbey in Kent, a medieval Cistercian monastery dating from 1146, and subsequently converted into a private residence at the time of the dissolution, is this year playing host to the party, helping to save the property’s perimeter walls and its extravagantly timber-roofed hospitium. “Repairing a late medieval structure like

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this one sympathetically requires a considerable amount of initial investigation,” explains one of the SPAB technical experts, John Garlik. “Hesaan Sheridan of Sussex-based, Heritage Testing, analysed the lime mortar in the Tudor brick section, for example. Chalk Down Lime helped find the best local sources and the material we then produced was examined in a laboratory to ensure that it has the necessary structural integrity and hydraulic properties.” In fact, the only way that the 21st Century mortar can be distinguished from the original, is the addition of crushed Kentish ragstone as an aggregate, a deliberate move that will allow future generations to identify the latter repair from what came before. That Kentish Ragstone also increases air entrainment, providing a higher content of carbon dioxide and oxygen through the mortar that will set the lime deep in the wall, something that the original aggregate could not have achieved. Moreover, the 2mm size and relative roundness of the ragstone means less lime can be used, producing a stronger end product, but with the breathability and flexibility that lime will naturally afford. In order to avoid further harm, the team is also pursuing the aforementioned SPAB policy of minimum intervention. Even where sand and cement pointing may have been erroneously applied, for instance, this is only being removed in favour of a lime mix where it will not cause further damage

to the structure. If there are holes in the wall, in order to ensure that a continuing narrative of preservation can be read by future generations, rather than replace these with reclaimed stone, tile repairs are often undertaken. Further research by Historic England has also revealed that the extant ivy should be removed and, where the original hard capping has deteriorated, it has been replaced with a soft capping made of turf, a technique which helps to protect the ancient stone wall from freeze-thaw cycles and further water damage. If you really want to follow in the footsteps of your construction forbears, however, then you will even eschew bagsupplied hydraulic lime in favour of a far more ancient art, and that’s exactly what the SPAB team are demonstrating at its working party. SPAB lime expert Stafford Holmes is the guardian of a kiln that burns limestone at temperatures of 950-1,000ºC degrees, thus producing quicklime. To produce the bedding mortar for the wall repairs, that material is then added to a wetted soft sand, and the crushed ragstone aggregate. The quicklime absorbs the moisture from the sand and, in an exothermic reaction, produces considerable heat. Simply keep adding water and you will be left with the required mix. Also in attendance at the working party are the 2019 William Morris Craft Fellows, four craftspeople chosen for a unique educational programme that will see them travel around the country in the coming months experiencing a vast range of traditional building skills. Stonemason Sean Henderson, carpenter and joiner, Sam Matthams, stonemason Luke O’Hanlon, and bricklayer Matthew Wilson were themselves on hand to provide guidance to volunteers and were full of praise for the SPAB’s educational initiatives. “What has emerged from my experiences in the fellowship is just how crucial training is,” declares Matthew. “I almost feel duty bound now to pass on some that knowledge, because the work of the likes of SPAB is so important.”

OLD HOUSE PROJECT The Boxley Abbey site will also witness a far more ambitious SPAB project. Over the next five years a medieval building that has stood derelict for more than 50 years, will be brought back from the brink, and will serve as an educational resource throughout that time. Originally erected in the reign of Richard III, St Andrews chapel was subsequently converted into a private residence, has been the property of Tudor poet Thomas Wyatt, and also once served as a post office, all of which reveals layers of history that the charity is determined to preserve. The traditional materials in evidence include earth, brick, stone, timber, peg tiling and lime pargeting. Professional Builder will return to the site in future issues to profile the work of the expert tradespeople who will be undertaking the significant programme of repairs, and if you’d like to find out more about the SPAB initiative visit www.rdr.link/BH073

For further information on SPAB visit www.rdr.link/BH003 For further information on future Working Parties visit www.rdr.link/BH004

PROFESSIONAL BUILDER SEPTEMBER 2019 23

Professional INVENTORS CORNER

If a light is left on in the loft above there is a clear visual indication from the Attic Eye.

If the light’s been turned off it remains black.

LIGHT WORK S

ometimes you might not know that a problem exists until you share it – whilst that might be true of the kind of issue that will secure you a sojourn at the Priory it’s equally accurate about more prosaic domestic dilemmas. Bishop’s Stortfordbased site manager Harry Degun had just that experience when he happened to be casually telling a colleague how he’d left the light on in his loft, only for him to reply that he’d done the very same thing for an entire two week holiday. “There are millions of homes up and down the country with loft hatches with lights above,” explains Harry. “Once that hatch is closed it’s impossible to tell if the

How to fit the Attic Eye

Site manager and former carpenter Harry Degun has quite literally brought to light a problem and found a simple and inexpensive solution. Professional Builder’s Lee Jones talks to the Essex tradesman about his Attic Eye invention.

light’s still on and I spoke to a number of people who had just the same experience. That was really the beginning of the Attic Eye concept and I would spend the next two years in my spare time – evenings and weekends – researching a solution.” Even with modern energy saving bulbs leaving a light on unnecessarily is a wasteful exercise, whilst it will increase the risk of fire, and after consulting a panel of intellectual property consultants, Harry was convinced there was a market for his device – the trickier proposition was to make it work. “The key to Attic Eye is what it’s made from, and I spent many man hours studying how different

Before taking down the loft hatch, mark a position which is at least 100mm from the edge.

Carpenter, Harry Degun is the inventor of the Attic Eye.

materials absorb and reflect light. I looked into fibre optics, for instance, and, constructed a prototype using a converging lens on top of a hollow tube that would concentrate light rays where they can be seen when looking up at a loft hatch. If the light in the space above is left on, it will light up – if it’s turned off it will remain dark.” If simplicity is the ultimate sophistication, then Attic Eye has that particular attribute in abundance. The finished product is essentially a tube of plastic with optical properties, which allows the light to pass through. It does

Drill a 20mm hole with the bit supplied.

PROFESSIONAL BUILDER SEPTEMBER 2019 25

Professional INVENTORS CORNER

Take off nut and one washer and insert into hole not require batteries, or any other external power source, whilst the only maintenance needed is a clean once a year or so. Conveniently supplied with the auger bit required to fit it, the device can also be installed in a matter of minutes. Simply drill a 20mm hole anywhere in your wood or ply loft hatch – as long as it’s at least 100mm from the edge. Take off the nut and one washer from the Attic Eye and insert it into the hole. Then simply insert the second washer and then

Insert the second washer and then the nut and tighten slightly.

the nut and tighten slightly, leaving the two washers either side of the hatch. Replace the loft hatch and it’s job done! Whilst fitting the Attic Eye might represent simplicity itself, like many an inventor before him Harry found that proving there was a demand for his invention was only the first step on a very long road. “The function of the Attic Eye depends upon the quality and properties of the material. Initially I went to China but found that some of the prototypes that

were supplied to me were not up to the required standard. In the end I found a local company that can supply a decent volume and the specification I required. When your sacrificing whatever time you have away from the tools to make a product work you need to believe in it, and there are so many things that you need to consider from patents to distribution and marketing. It’s been a long journey but there’s now a patent pending.”

For further information on the Attic Eye visit www.rdr/linkBH005

SPECIAL REPORT

MINIMISING CONSTRUCTION WASTE

A PERFECT FOIL It is estimated over two million single use plastic sealant cartridges are put into landfill every week. Scarlet McAleese-Banks, Marketing Director of Hilton Banks, explains why her company’s move away from single use plastics is a timely one.

nvironmental issues are now dominating the news agenda, and the construction sector has not escaped scrutiny. It is reported the levels of carbon dioxide emissions from the UK construction industry saw an overall increase from 8.9 million tonnes in 1990 to 13 million tonnes in 2017. This amounts to approximately 3 per cent of the total carbon dioxide emissions in the UK for that year. Behind this staggering figure there also lies a myriad of waste and pollution issues, which ultimately need to be tackled. Recent figures on plastic waste in the construction industry make for shocking reading. Some 23 per cent of the total plastic consumed in the UK comes from our sector, with 20,000

FACTS AND FIGURES: 씰 Using foils reduces waste by 95 per cent 씰 The HB42 Eco-Foils are resilient and durable 씰 Store easily in the back of vans and toolboxes 씰 38 per cent more sealant than in the 290ml tubes tonnes of plastic being sent to landfill every year. It is estimated that over 2 million single use plastic cartridges are put into landfill every week in the UK. Plastics are finding their way into our seas and oceans, and of those plastics that are sent to landfill, some take over a thousand years to break down in the soil. There is little doubt that the construction

sector and its product suppliers need to take action. Recent research suggests the industry is in general agreement that change is necessary. It was also found that 95 per cent of construction professionals admit that the industry needs to reduce its plastic use and single use plastic packaging is certainly one area that should be acted on sooner rather than later. We are listening to the trade and working to tackle the pressing environmental problem of disposing of the single use plastic cartridges. With the impact on the environment in mind, Hilton Banks has launched its best selling HB42 All-in-One Sealant and Adhesive in 400ml foils. HB42 ‘Eco-Foil’ removes the environmental problem of disposing of

PROFESSIONAL BUILDER SEPTEMBER 2019 29

SPECIAL REPORT MINIMISING CONSTRUCTION WASTE

the single use plastic cartridge normally associated with sealants and other similar products. The 400ml foils produce 95 per cent less waste than the single use tubes and users get 38 per cent more sealant than in the 290ml plastic tube. Using the latest MS Polymer technology, the product seals, sticks and fills, is flexible up to 230 per cent, can be over-painted and works in the wet. It is low in Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and bonds to almost anything; it is also food safe, fully curing in 24 hours. The foils are very durable and foil guns are easy-to-use and remain extremely clean throughout their use. They also take a plastic sealant cartridge so can be used with every type of sealant if required. At the end of their life, the waste left over from foils is tiny compared to the plastic tubes and the foils are much easier to dispose of. There are therefore cost benefits to be had from moving away from single use plastics. With HB42 Eco-Foils producing 95 per cent less waste, the amount of skip space or waste disposal is greatly reduced. Hilton Banks cares about the environment and although construction products have to be strong and durable, we are always looking at ways to reduce our impact on the environment.

Look out for the HB42 competition in next monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Professional Builder for your chance to win a case of foils, sealant gun and HB42 goodies.

For futher information on HB42 visit www.rdr.link/BH006

SPECIAL REPORT TIMBER AND FLAME RETARDANTS

HOUSE OF ILL ‘FLAME’ Avoid getting hot and bothered by making sure you know the key facts on wood products and flame-retardant treatments. MORE INFO Just type in www.rdr.link/ followed by the unique code shown to get straight to more info.

f you’re working with an architect or a homeowner, would you be able to recognise when to raise a question on the possible need for timber flame-retardant treatments? It may come as a bit of a shock, but a recent survey of architects found that just over 70 per cent of those surveyed were unable to define what is meant by the term ‘fire resistance’ and just under 60 per cent were unable to explain the term ‘reaction to fire’. This vocabulary is fundamental to recommending and installing timber systems that are as safe as possible for homeowners and building users. It, therefore, behoves professional builders to understand the basics, as well as the terminology of flame-retardant treatments. The Timber Trade Federation (TTF), and Wood Protection Association (WPA), are working closely together to get correct information into builders’ hands, to help protect your own reputation.

How do flame-retardant treatments work? Flame-retardant (FR) treatments, applied under factory-controlled conditions and tested for consistent quality, modify the burning process. They cause rapid dehydration of the wood and cooling of its volatile elements, which in turn reduces the rate of growth of the fire. In the early stages of a fire, it is this crucial delay, giving extra time for escape, which is most valuable. Slowing the growth and spread of a fire also provides an opportunity for the flames to be extinguished before extensive damage to a property can be caused, thereby potentially limiting insurance losses. FR treatments can be applied to products through impregnation in a pressure treatment plant, the same as for normal timber preservative pre-treatments. They can also be added to certain products during their manufacture –

products like MDF and OSB for example. There is a third type: the brush-on treatments which come in a can. These, though, have distinct difficulties. Their performance in a fire situation depends entirely on whether the builder applying the brush-on coating covered the timber with a sufficient depth of coating. TTF and WPA both strongly recommend avoiding these brush-on coatings. A timber product’s ‘reaction to fire’ can be measured, tested and enhanced by the application of a WPA-approved flame retardant treatment. Timber and panels that can receive such treatments are available in a range of product categories

SEPTEMBER 2019 PROFESSIONAL BUILDER

from carcassing to cladding. The WPA also operates respected quality assurance schemes such as its ‘Benchmark FR’ programme for timber treated with a WPA-approved FR product, and ‘FR Build’, which specifically covers FR treated components for the timber frame sector.

What to look for and what does it mean? Reaction to Fire performance is set down legally in a number of European Standard ‘Euroclasses’. Euroclass A represents a non-combustible material, so Euroclass B is the highest level of performance that wood-based products can achieve with a suitable flame retardant treatment. If you’ve been given a spec by an architect, you should stick to it, rather than taking on the burden of responsibility yourself by ordering a different or a cheaper product. You can check that the product matches the architect’s spec by looking at the Declaration of Performance (DoP). This should have been drawn up after the product received its flame-retardant treatment, under CE-marking regulations.

Also ask to see the product’s Reaction to Fire Classification Report, issued by an independent third-party certifying organisation. Sellers have a legal obligation to provide DoPs and Fire Classification Reports and buyers have a legal right to see them. Flame-retardant treatments are very specific, and it’s important to remember this when checking any documentation. If a Classification Report states that Euroclass B has been achieved on 25mm thick Spruce boards, tested without an air gap behind them and on plasterboard, then the fire performance test results are only applicable to exactly those products, installation circumstances, timber species, and board thickness. If no Classification Report is available for the species and design required then it’s not in your interests to proceed: you should find an alternative supplier. Along with a Euroclass, you may see

What do Building Regs say? At the end of 2018, the Government revised the Building Regulation in the wake of the Grenfell disaster. Timber cladding is allowed on buildings up to a height of 18 metres. The Building Regulations also state that any material applied to the surface of a building should ‘...adequately resist the spread of flame’.

Free training available

other wording on a flame-retardant treated wood product. The little letter ‘s’ stands for its smoke generation rating, and s-0 indicates the best performance. Similarly a little letter ‘d’ indicates its rating in generating flaming droplets, which could spread fire: again zero (d-0) indicates best performance. You may therefore see ‘Euroclass B, s-0, d-0’ on a product’s Classification Report or DoP.

It’s not the builder’s job to specify whether or not a particular situation will require a flame-retardant treatment for timber. Yet it’s certainly worth your while becoming more familiar with the topic so you can raise any appropriate concerns with the architect, homeowner or specifier. Free training from the TTF and WPA is available online at www.rdr.link/BH082. You can also freely download Fire Protection Factsheets 1-6 from the Publications section at www.rdr.link/BH083.

For further information on the Timber Trade Federation (TTF) visit www.rdr.link/BH007 For further information on the Wood Protection Association (WPA) visit www.rdr.link/BH008

SPECIAL REPORT THE MASTER BUILDER AWARDS

No.3 in the Series

HOME GROUND This month, we are showcasing two highlycommended nominations for the 2019 awards in the best ‘New Home’ category.

he Master Builder Awards celebrate the incredible achievements of Master Builders, showcasing examples from across the UK of highquality craftsmanship, exceptional customer service and building excellence. Now in its 14th year, the awards help to recognise the significant contribution that small and medium-sized (SME) construction firms make to the industry. Yorkshire-based Wizard Builders took on a new build contract worth £100,000 with the remit of delivering an accessible retirement home, accommodating busy family life and grandchildren. Located in a paddock next to their former home, the couple’s dream house was situated on the main entrance into the village. It was essential therefore to create a sense of place with the build, using the correct materials and design in order to keep the dwelling in line with the community’s aesthetics. In fact, the scheme was the first of its kind in the village. Never before had such a scheme been accepted under the local authority’s new planning policy, which aims to support small scale and organic housing growth. Wizard Builders worked their magic to produce a warm, light and stunning property, inside and out. It is not only a perfect home for the couple, but the spacious rooms and accessibility make it a hub for the wider family.

“Wizard Builders worked their magic to produce a warm, light and stunning property, inside and out.”

The Winner is... 2017’s Master Builder Award overall and New Home Project winner, John Dynes & Son, saw success again this year, receiving highly-commended recognition for their £580,000 new home project at the Northern Ireland Master Builder Awards. Tiered over five levels, the clever design is a traditional build with an abundance of natural light to produce a modern and elegant dwelling. Judges recognised how John Dynes & Son overcame significant obstacles to produce their client’s dream home, including the need to drop the site levels by 1.4 metres meaning that 2,000m3 of rock was broken out and removed. Furthermore, with floor to ceiling windows, it was a challenge to source, transport and fit glass to meet the dimensions required. However, the biggest challenge was that throughout the project the client changed their mind about internal and external design features. This included changing the design of the fireplace, which necessitated cutting through 200mm concrete slabs without causing any damage. Finally, the client also asked that the exterior cladding be changed quite late into the build, posing a significant problem for the team, as the new slate

PROFESSIONAL BUILDER SEPTEMBER 2019 35

SPECIAL REPORT THE MASTER BUILDER AWARDS

stone needed to be trimmed down on site from 200mm to the desired 35mm. The team were able to overcome these challenges through consistent communication with the client. Throughout the construction period, the client always expected the Managing Director to be at the end of a phone – at night and at weekends – to provide advice, expertise and reassurance when queries arose. John Dynes & Son successfully delivered this special project exactly to the client’s specifications, and the result is a master class in spacious and stylish living, and a modern interpretation of a place and space for enhanced living. From new residential homes to major commercial developments, Master Builders help to build a better future for the UK every year and the awards provide an opportunity for FMB members to showcase their excellent work. For further information on the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) visit www.rdr.link/BH009

36 SEPTEMBER 2019 PROFESSIONAL BUILDER

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BUSINESS SOLUTIONS VAT CHANGES

REVERSE CHARGES! Tamara Habberley, Consultant at The VAT People looks at the new reverse VAT charges and asks, are you ready?

he introduction of the VAT domestic reverse charge for building and construction services is fast approaching. This is despite growing calls to delay the move so that the construction sector has longer to adequately prepare for this change. It is set to come into force on 1st October 2019, with HMRC reiterating that the measures are crucial to combat its perceived opinion that there is widespread fraud in the sector.

WHAT IS IT? The reverse charge is an anti-fraud mechanism that will affect the majority of businesses involved in a construction supply chain. It is a major change in how VAT will be paid to suppliers and accounted for by HMRC. The reverse charge does not apply – amongst other circumstances – to supplies that are zero rated for UK VAT and for supplies from non-VAT registered suppliers. It is linked to the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS), as it will apply where the customer is CIS registered, but does not apply to supplies to end users, intermediaries or employment bureaus who may also be CIS registered. An end user is anyone who is not using the construction services to make an onward supply of construction services, this will mainly be property owners or businesses that use properties to gain rental income. An intermediary is someone who is a connected party to the end user. Where a supply is made to an end user or intermediaries, the supplier will continue to charge and be paid VAT on the supply to the customer and declare the VAT to HMRC.

HOW DOES IT WORK? Put simply, where a supplier is making supplies that are within the reverse

charge, the supplier will still have to show the correct applicable VAT rate on a VAT invoice to the customer, but will not be paid the VAT by the customer. Instead the burden of accounting for the VAT will fall on the customer who will have to make what is termed a reverse charge. The customer will account for the reverse charge by declaring output VAT at the rate applicable on the supply they have received from the supplier and then recovering it as input VAT, as per the normal VAT recovery rules on the return that they submit to HMRC.

declare and pay HMRC VAT as they believed that their customer would account for VAT by making a reverse charge. If the customer’s status changes during a project this could also cause problems. For example, the customer might initially be an end user who would be charged and pay VAT to the builder. If the customer sells the part-built site and agrees to complete the building work, and invoice the new site owner for the construction work, the customer has now become a builder rather than an end user, and would no longer pay VAT to suppliers of building services, so instead the customer would account for VAT by making a reverse charge. In this scenario, it would mean that sub contractors are no longer paid VAT by their customer, and face cash flow issues if the VAT that they expected to receive was part of their cash flow.

POTENTIAL PITFALLS

HOW TO PREPARE

If you provide building services plus VAT to main contractors or other sub contractors, and are accustomed to being paid the VAT you charge on your services, and using this money as part of your cash flow, then there are serious financial implications that you must consider immediately. As of 1st October 2019, you will lose this cashflow benefit, as you will no longer receive the VAT you have shown on your invoice. Instead your customer will declare the output VAT to HMRC and recover it as input VAT. Another downside is the potential for confusion over the status of the customer, and therefore who is liable for declaring and recovering the VAT payments. Supplies to end users who will use your services to make supplies other than building services are not subject to the reverse charge, so you might find that customers are claiming they are not end users in order to avoid paying a VAT charge. This would mean that the supplier risks being exposed to a VAT assessment, even if they thought they had no reason to

1) Know your VAT The first measure that any contractor should take to prepare for the new rules is to understand your VAT obligations as a whole. Do you know the difference between zero-rated supplies, reduced rate and standard rate for VAT supplies? If you lack awareness around the basic principles that apply to the construction sector then now is the perfect time to educate yourself on all of these, not just the new reverse charge rules. You will then be in a much better position to comply with the new legislation. 2) What is your customer? Identify exactly what – or who – your customer is. Are they another sub contractor or the main contractor on the project? If they fall into either category, the reverse charge applies and you will show VAT on your invoice, but your customer will not pay the VAT to your business and you will not declare it to HMRC. If the customer is the end user of the building services, such as a landowner or an intermediary, then the

PROFESSIONAL BUILDER SEPTEMBER 2019 39

BUSINESS SOLUTIONS reverse charge will not apply and they will pay the VAT invoiced to them, and you will be the person liable to account for and pay the VAT to HMRC. Create a list of everyone involved in every project and identify their status and subsequent obligations. 3) Will your contracts be affected? Do you have any current contracts in place that will be affected by the reverse charge when it comes into force? If so, be clear on exactly who will account for and be paid VAT on the project and what rate will be applicable. Make sure the contract terms for any new contracts clearly state who will account for the VAT. For example, if your customer is a main contractor the contract needs to be clear that the customer will declare the VAT on the reverse charge to HMRC. If the customer is, in fact, an end user or intermediary it will pay the VAT invoiced to it by your business, which you

October deadline, or that they are at least attempting to ensure this is the case.

will declare and pay to HMRC. Contracts will also need to set out who pays any penalties and interest if the VAT is incorrectly accounted for, such as in scenarios where the customer’s nature has been misunderstood. 4) Is your IT up to scratch? Consider your IT systems and whether the accounting system you have in place is geared up for accounting for VAT on a reverse charge. If it is not, find out exactly when the software is due to be updated and ensure you have a manual process to deal with this in the interim. Put pressure on your accounting provider to ensure their technology will be ready for the 1st

5) Prepare your cash flow If you rely heavily on VAT payments from your customers to support your cash flow before submitting and paying the VAT return to HMRC, think about how you would cope if these payments from your customers vanished. Could your cash flow survive? If not, you may well need to change your accounting periods to monthly VAT returns or consider gaining additional funding from other sources. Finally, HMRC have said they will adopt a “light touch” approach to dealing with any errors made during the first six months of the new scheme, but you have to show that you have acted in good faith and at least tried to comply with the legislation. Start your preparations now to put yourself in the best possible position.

If you would like to discuss your VAT obligations, get in touch with The VAT People by emailing Tamara on tamara.habberley@thevatpeople.com, visit ww.rdr.link/BH072 or call the free VAT Helpline on 0333 3637 898.

BUSINESS SOLUTIONS DEVELOPMENT FINANCE

THE NUMBERS GAME The Numbers

When it comes to property development finance, bigger does not mean better, argues ASC Finance for Business.

e at ASC Finance for Business recently had a builder approach us looking for finance. Now that’s nothing unusual – we’ve done plenty of property development finance for various clients over the years. This client had strong experience doing renovations and developments for others, but was looking to head up a project of their own. They were looking at buying a local property, refurbishing and extending it, then selling it on for a tidy profit. So far, so good – we’ve seen many projects like this before. But the client had a worry – they thought that because they were a small operation, it was going to be near impossible to get finance. In reality, there’s no truth to that at all. It’s unfortunate to see this myth become prevalent, so we’re here to put it to bed. We want to answer the question of what you need when you’re looking for property development finance – size is certainly no object. So, what are lenders looking at when it comes to development finance?

The Team When you’re applying for development finance, one of the biggest factors which lenders consider is experience. The primary thing a lender will look at when making decisions is you, your team’s and your company’s track record. This is especially true for smaller teams – with fewer people “in the picture”, you need to make sure you have experience on your side. Of course, if a lender is looking at your company, this does raise a question – what about SPVs? An SPV is newly created, so it’s got no track record at all to back it up. You might be worried that would mean an

SPV could never find finance. No need to be concerned – the lack of a track-record isn’t a dealbreaker. Lenders will always look at the individuals behind the development, not just the company.

The Security The amount of finance you’ll get through a loan is intrinsically linked to the property you’re building on. Lenders want security – for property development, that security is almost always the property or land being developed. The finance you can raise is based on a percentage of the value – referred to as the loan-to-value percentage (LTV). In property development, LTV normally initially caps out at around 75 per cent. However, if you’re only looking to finance development costs, and don’t have to purchase the land, then it’s sometimes possible to borrow 100 per cent of costs. However, it is possible to borrow more than this. As work on the property progresses, the value is going to continue to increase. Likewise, the cost to completion will decrease. Therefore, lenders will consider further advances of finance against the Gross Development Value (GDV) of the property.

Any property development ultimately has one aim – profit. You are looking to make money off of property you’re developing, and you’re looking for finance to try and ensure that. A lender knows this – and let’s be honest here, they’re out to make some money from this venture too. Before a lender puts funds behind a venture, they need to be certain that at the end there’s profit. When it comes down to it, lenders are going to want to see the underlying numbers and facts behind your project. Planning permission, cost per square foot, product cost, total cost, potential resale or refinance value. You’ll have to be prepared to demonstrate a plan for success to convince lenders of the profitability of your development. It might be tempting to think that because bigger projects will generate more profit by the numbers, they’ll be what lenders prioritise. However, size has absolutely no bearing on your chances of finding finance. A big project and a small one will have different interactions with lenders – that’s only natural, they’ll have different requirements. But in no way do lenders view smaller projects as “lesser” prospects. These are just three of the bigger things to keep an eye out for when putting an application in. There are plenty of options that could come into the mix. But the thing to keep in mind throughout the process is that size doesn’t matter – business finance is bespoke. A big company and a small one aren’t “competing” for finance – lenders are happy to find the solution that works for you, no matter your size. No matter what you’re looking for, though, we’d always recommend engaging professional help with your finance search. The importance of someone who understands your project, and who you trust to deliver the results you need, can never be overstated!

For futher information on ASC Finance visit www.rdr.link/BH010

PROFESSIONAL BUILDER SEPTEMBER 2019 43

HEALTH & SAFETY EAR PROTECTION

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

You’ll be glad to hear about the latest ear protection from Hellberg.

here are lots of ear defenders out there, and some of the cheap throwaway ones are not even rated. Looking at these with all their sophistication I assumed they would be top dollar, but I was pleasantly surprised to see they are cheaper than many of the radio ear defenders I have tried. That doesn’t put them in the throw-away category, and if you look after them, they should last you for years and work out to be very good value. Hellberg Secure Ear Defenders come in various ratings to suit the task in hand. If, for example, you use a combi drill, and perhaps work in a moderately noisy work shop or site, a level 1, green coded, ear defender will give you adequate protection. You will still be able to hear the louder noises and the general background noises, which keep you in touch with your environment. Personally, I need something better.

The next rating is level 2, colour coded yellow, which is good for people using tools, such as a circular saw or grinder. It blocks out the harmful effects up to 23 decibels, but it does mean that a lot of background noises will be cut out. To overcome this you have the option of a built-in level-dependent microphone, which allows you to hear speech but cuts out louder noises. This can be switched off if you require a quieter time. The top level is 3, colour coded orange, which is needed for extreme noises, such as firearms and concrete hammers. The other great feature of these ear defenders is the option of a built in AM/FM radio and a 3.5mm audio input. I have been testing the radio for a few weeks now and I am happy to say that the automatic signal lock is very good. I have owned radio ear defenders that cost a lot more but drifted on the signal to the point where they were unusable. The other good feature is the sound limit, which prevents the radio being

turned up to a harmful level. I have to say that I, and a great many other builders, have done permanent damage to my ears by using power tools without proper ear protection, or just being too close to someone else using a Paslode. It isn’t all about the noise you generate yourself and, despite the damage, I am very keen to protect and preserve the hearing I have left, so I will wear these ear defenders at every opportunity. If you look at how little noise it takes to cause permanent damage a circular saw in an enclosed space will definitely do it.

For more information on Hellberg online go to www.rdr.link/BH011

44 SEPTEMBER 2019 PROFESSIONAL BUILDER

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 FRE 2

SCANNING TOOLS

PAINT PACKS

MIGHTON ZIRCON ANKERSTUY PAINT MULTISCANNER L550C Mighton’s high The MultiScanner L550c OneStep vibrantly performance paints are locates studs, metal, and live AC electrical designed to be easy to wiring behind walls, floors, and ceilings. apply, giving a great finish. The advanced ColorTrip display lights On top of that, cleaning is green in stud scan, blue in metal, and red simple, requiring just soap in live AC scan. The screen flashes, or lights and water. Mighton red, to alert the presence of live AC in Stud, Ankerstuy paint flows and DeepScan, and Metal Scan modes, while levels like traditional paints, a 4-mode but the water-based formula has added benefits. The firm switch makes it easy to change can colour match to any colour you like. Each pack modes. Stud Scan mode includes a 20l tin of sealer primer for exterior joinery, five locates the centre, edges, and paint stirrers, five paint overalls and three paint combs. direction of wood or metal Get primed and ready to paint the site red with great studs up to 19mm deep. prizes this month, simply visit the URL below to enter. Deep Scan mode www.rdr.link/BH012 doubles the scanning depth to 38mm deep; Metal Scan mode locates non-ferrous metal, such as re than ever befo copper pipe, up to 38mm deep, and ferrous It’s now easier titions on our mpe metal, such as rebar, up to 76mm deep; and to enter the co e collected all th ve e’ W AC Scan mode locates live, unshielded AC . te si T-SHIRTS web , ge pa y one hand electrical wiring up to 51mm deep. competitions on have to enter ly To enter the draw go to www.rdr.link/BH012 meaning you on

Easy to Enter!

ce! your details on 2 01 BH k/ www.rdr.lin

PAIRS OF WORK SOCKS

BLUEGUARD ULTIMATE DURABILITY SOCKS Are you throwing money away on work socks that just aren’t up to the job? Some so-called “work socks” are only standard sports socks in different packaging. So, they don’t last and they’re not good value for money either. BlueGuard Ultimate Durability Socks are completely different. They claim to last 46 times longer than standard sports socks, and they’re lifetime guaranteed not to get holes. You’ll want to put a sock in it when you win a pair of these work socks. All you have to do to put your foot in the ring is go to www.rdr.link/BH012

SEPTEMBER 2019 PROFESSIONAL BUILDER

ENGEL WORKWEAR ‘GALAXY’ T-SHIRT Forming part of Engel Workwear’s comprehensive ‘Galaxy’ collection is a smart and comfortable 180g/m2 T-shirt which has soft ribbing around the neck and is made from a high quality fabric mix of 60 per cent cotton and 40 per cent polyester/single jersey. Available in a wide range of sizes, the T-shirts are offered in a variety of two-colour designs which match the other garments in the ‘Galaxy’ collection to provide a professional image. The shoulders feature reflective print for enhanced visibility. Our competitions are out of this world. To enter, simply visit www.rdr.link/BH012

BUMPER WORKWEAR AND SAFETY SHOE PACKAGE

SNICKERS WORKWEAR This fantastic workwear package includes Snickers Workwear’s latest 6351 Loose Fit Stretch Trousers plus Solid Gear’s Onyx Safety Shoe and the newly-launched Rugby Top. The new stretchy work trousers for men have a loose fit for a classic look and feel, with stretch Cordura for increased durability as well as improved ventilation and close quarter mobility. The good-looking Onyx Safety Shoe integrates a seamless upper and Cordura reinforcements with a breathable footbed and strong rubber outsole for maximum grip on slippery and uneven surfaces – plus a fiberglass toecap. The stylish Rugby Shirt is made from a made of a soft but durable fabric for casual comfort and great everyday use on site. To be in with a chance of winning this bundle simply visit www.rdr.link/BH012

BACKPACKS

RST These backpacks from RST feature air mesh back support and shoulder straps, for convenient, comfortable carriage, meaning any weight is spread evenly. The shoulder straps can be detached and stored behind the back support, to be lifted by handle or wheeled. The bag includes a tool holder with 26 pockets, which can hold a variety of tools and can be easily removed as well as a separate laptop compartment for protection from other items inside. Put your back into it this month, courtesy of Professional Builder’s free competitions. Enter by visiting www.rdr.link/BH012

POWER MIXERS

Draper Tools Draper 230V Power Mixer (1,400W) Draper’s 230V power mixer is the ideal power tool for any building professional. With a no-load speed of 0-800rpm, this versatile tool is suitable for mixing up to 120L of plaster, mortars, floor screeds and much more. This mixer has a variety of functions including the soft start, avoiding spillage and splash back, and a variable speed function allowing time and precision when mixing. The power mixer is supplied with a two-part mixing paddle, a 2M cable and BS plug. This tool has a paddle diameter of 140mm and a M14 spindle thread. Mix it up this September and visit www.rdr.link/BH012

SLIDING DOOR SYSTEM

PACKS OF 10 HESSIAN SHEET CLIPS

HESSICLIP The Hessiclip has been 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. Hessiclip replaces the old method of precariously balancing bricks and blocks on top of hessian sheets during the mortar curing process. Produced in ‘safety yellow’ the clip is highly visible from the ground, helping to emphasise that site safety is paramount. Visit our website at www.rdr.link/BH012 to enter our competitions.

ECLISSE VETROGLIDE TECH Add a Vetroglide Tech surface mounted sliding door system to your next project! 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. Glide into glory with Professional Builder’s monthly competitions. And don’t forget, by visiting www.rdr.link/BH012 you can enter all the competitions in one go!

OUGH THERE’S R-ALL’ WAS NOT EN FO ERE ‘F S R’ DE IL BU TIONS ON IF PROFESSIONAL AYS AND COMPETI AW VE GI E IV US CL ST OF EX ALSO A WHOLE HO O.UK FOR YOUR ROBUILDERMAG.C .P W W W T OU K EC YWHERE OUR WEBSITE – CH ON’T FIND THEM AN W U YO R BE EM M AND RE CHANCE TO WIN – WEBSITE. ELSE BUT ON OUR

PROFESSIONAL BUILDER SEPTEMBER 2019 47

roofing, flooring & insulation

A ‘SLATEMENT’ OF INTENT!

f ever there was a Champions Professional Builder goes ‘pitch’ side to discover why League of roofing material Spanish Slate always comes out on top! manufacturers, then this is surely where the final would be played out! It’s right up there, or rather down there, with the biggest natural slate quarries in the world, with a mind boggling circumference of 3.5 miles. That’s around 15 Real Madrid home football pitches. And the soccer analogies would certainly not have been lost on the thousands of Liverpool and Tottenham fans who were arriving in the Spanish capital for the big game as we too passed through on an epic journey, which would eventually take 190,000 us into the rolling valleys and mountains TONNES of the lush northern extremes of Galicia. OF SLATE ARE It’s home to Cupa Pizarras, whose PRODUCED PER history in slate manufacturing can be YEAR. explains: “We are very proud in fed to 22 different factories in traced back to 1892. After a major this day and age to be able to the mountains, where the manual restructure in the 1960s when five slate offer a totally natural product shaping of the slates into producing families got together to form a with lower environmental impact manageable sized blocks takes manufacturing behemoth, the company than any other alternative for place, with only water added has established itself as the world’s roofs and cladding. The simplicity of the during the cutting process. All that water biggest supplier of roofing slates and production process makes it the most is recycled to further reduce the cladding solutions, with a range of sizes sustainable solution for any project.” The environmental impact. and shapes to suit every type of habitable environmental policy is also applied to the Significantly, there are no artificial structure, from domestic homes to transportation of the product which, materials or chemicals added. The slate is commercial offices and historical buildings. despite its remote location, is actually kept wet and manually cut into the Whilst the 16 quarries and mines dotted easily accessible to the major shipping required sizes and thickness by highly throughout the stunning landscape ports on the Spanish north coast. France skilled splitters, before being subjected to naturally afford the ‘wow’ factor, the and the UK are the most popular company is keen to reinforce the message further quality checks and finally packed destinations for the 190,000 tonnes of in crates ready for transportation to the that it is not size but the sustainability slate produced annually, although the coast. New machines are currently being credentials of the manufacturing process Cupa Pizarras offering has been used in trialled to speed up the actual splitting of this age old building material of which many prestigious projects across the process, but in many respects it seems they are most proud. globe, including in the USA, Japan and there really is no substitute for a skilled The process through which the slate Scandinavia. In fact, one in three roof operative with an experienced eye and a goes from quarry to roof is a carefully slates supplied around the world currently steady hand with hammer and chisel. controlled one. The slate, laid down bares the Cupa Pizarras brand. Despite 97 per cent of the around 500 million years ago – slate that is extracted not being and running in a gigantic seam MORE used – due to failing the initial all the way to Wales, is first THAN geological investigation, there is subjected to geological surveys minimal environmental impact, as in order to ensure the quality of local trees are planted over the finished slate meets the infillled excavation sites as part of required standards. It is then HOUSES the company’s environmental extracted in a meticulous COVERED PER policy. Julian Gomez, Director of process involving a myriad of DAY IN THE UK. Marketing, and the grandson of diggers and diamond cutters, one of the original gang of five loaded onto massive trucks and

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X2 AROUND THE EARTH CUPA PIZARRAS PRODUCE ENOUGH SLATE TO CIRCLE THE EARTH TWICE PER YEAR.

The company offers varying levels of durability, with slates ranging from 4mm to 9mm thickness. The type of slate needed depends on likely weather conditions, with thicker slates naturally proving more durable under a climate with heavy snow; for example. The natural slate is also fire and completely weatherproof with no special treatment needed. There are impressive guarantees offered on all products, with the Excellence range coming with a 100 year guarantee, whilst a report on the Heavy 3 showed that, under weather tests, the slate could perform for longer than a century under typical Scottish weather conditions. That is clearly something that could not be said for some of the slate products which have infiltrated the market in recent years, most notably from Brazil and China, as Julian explains: “Natural high quality slate is clearly a premium product, and there will always be people in the market hoping to attract roofers with a cheaper option. The problem is that whilst these products may look very similar to ours, the geological composition is totally different and, being sediment based, the slates will start to degrade in a matter of just a few years.” He adds: “By comparison, our slates are all guaranteed to last a lifetime and that is a price which more and more professional roofing contractors are prepared to pay for a superior level of customer satisfaction and overall peace of mind.” In the very rare case of something going wrong with the installation, the company also offers traceability assurances which can identify the origin, type, date, technical data and production dates for each of the natural slates with a

unique barcode. This traceability means specifiers can dictate the exact slate used on a building for renovation projects as well as trace any quality issues. In recent years the company has expanded its slate offering into the cladding market with Cupaclad, a rain screen slate option with visible and invisible fixings. One of the biggest success stories has been in Denmark, where in just seven years sales have gone from zero to 50 per cent of the production output for this part of Scandinavia. Take off in the UK has been a little more subdued but, going forward, the company has high hopes for this product, as well as a new Thermoslate, described as the world’s first natural solar panel. It can be integrated into a façade or roof to provide renewable energy for heating and domestic hot water. It is the traditional roofing market, however, which remains very much the core focus of the company, with Julian stating: “Our passion is roofing slates. We have been producing them for exactly 125 years and we take massive pride in being

the only real specialist left.” With hundreds of football pitch sized quarries still to be exposed, it’s rather ‘slating’ the obvious to say that Cupa Pizarras and its impeccable natural grey/black roofs are going to continue to be in a league of their own for the next hundred years at least.

For more information on Cupa Pizarras online, go to www.rdr.link/BH013

1 IN EVERY 3 ROOF SLATES SUPPLIED AROUND THE WORLD IS FROM CUPA PIZARRAS.

PROFESSIONAL BUILDER SEPTEMBER 2019 49

roofing, flooring & insulation MORE INFO Just type in llowed www.rdr.link/ fo de by the unique co ght ai str shown to get . fo in e to mor

NO FLASH IN THE PAN! B

uilding materials have changed greatly over the decades, with a lot of traditional products being replaced by more environmentally friendly and universal solutions, that are also easier to install. This change has been especially evident in the UK market for waterproof flashings with non-lead alternatives first being introduced over a decade ago and the market share of such products increasing year on year with a greater choice of brands. Research states that in 2015, non lead flashing materials accounted for 17.4 per cent of the market and in 2018 this grew to 24.5 per cent. This trend is likely to continue to grow as there are less constraints using non lead materials than traditional lead and more confidence in the products from successful installs. Over ten years ago it became clear that the industry needed a product that

Keith Plummer, Ubbink Technical Manager considers the reasons behind the growth of lead alternatives for waterproof flashings. could be used when lead theft demanded an alternative. The first genuine non-lead material launched in the UK was our own Ubiflex B3 (3.5mm) granulated modified bitumen-based system complete with fixings and approved adhesives. This was

received well in what was a very conservative market and is now an established brand. A thinner version was introduced a year later, B2 (2.3mm) which is more suitable for applications where a soaker is needed. The granulated finish is considered a benefit by some property owners as it is clear from the ground that the material used on the dwelling is not traditional lead and discourages any potential theft and possible further damage to the roof, which can be costly to repair. The environmentally friendly

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roofing, flooring & insulation

“The non-lead flashing market continues to show healthy growth.” benefits that are related to these products appeal across all aspects of the industry Many years after the initial launch, research found that whilst theft was still an important issue, new concerns were the aesthetics of waterproof flashings where some applications required a more traditional looking product and finish. Climatic change, with more wet and cold spells, was also beginning to have an impact. So to ensure the market’s trends were being listened to, the company’s Head Office in the Netherlands developed a new generation of silicone based Ubiflex that has a greater working temperature range of -30°C to +180°C and is smooth in appearance. The other key feature to this system is it is dual sided grey/black meaning less stock is needed

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to be held at the merchants and by contractors. The latest market feedback has stated that in some applications a fully selfadhesive product would be preferred and as a consequence we are now able to offer another alternative to traditional waterproofing, by offering Ubiform +, a fully self-adhesive roll. With the continual acceptance of the alternative waterproof flashings, the market now has far more options to select from. Some with full certification and some without suiting both new build and refurbishment projects. Ubbink is continually reviewing the design and manufacturing processes of our waterproof flashings, helping us to stay at the forefront of this very highly valued building material ensuring a home is watertight. For further information visit www.rdr.link/BH014

roofing, flooring & insulation TECHNICAL TEAM TIPS – NO 7

Under your roof Ventilation tips – warm roofs, cold roofs and loft conversions by Tom Woodhouse, site services manager at Marley.

Warm roofs

old roofs, warm roofs, wellsealed or normal ceilings, breathable and nonbreathable membranes, it’s not surprising that ventilation for pitched roofs is so confusing! There are so many different variables that affect what type and how much ventilation is used, but if it isn’t done properly it can lead to serious condensation problems, particularly in new homes. Here we clear up the confusion and give some top ventilation tips for cold roofs, warm roofs and loft conversions.

Cold roofs A cold pitched roof features thermal insulation installed along the horizontal ceiling joists. The roof space is unoccupied, perhaps being used only for limited storage, and is at a similar temperature to the outside. There is little or no obstruction to airflow through the roof space from eaves to eaves, so smaller openings are sufficient.

How to ventilate cold roofs Cold roofs should be ventilated in accordance with BS 5250, which means that ventilation should be provided at both eaves and ridge level. A cold roof should have a minimum of 10mm continuous ventilation at the eaves

In a warm roof, the thermal insulation is along the slope of the roof to create a habitable loft space. Ventilation airflow is only possible above the insulation and along the slope of the roof, so larger openings at the eaves are needed to promote sufficient air movement.

How to ventilate a warm roof and 5mm continuous ventilation at the ridge. You can use either a breathable or non-breathable underlay but must also make sure there is the right amount of high and low level ventilation to prevent condensation. Non breathable underlays – the ventilation requirements for cold roofs with non-breathable underlays and ‘wellsealed ceilings’ are the same as for those without. Breathable underlays – installing a breathable membrane can reduce ventilation requirements for both well sealed and normal ceilings but to be on the safe side, it is still best to provide 10mm continuous ventilation at eaves and 5mm at the ridge. Or, you can contact our technical team to provide a free NBS specification to ensure you allow sufficient ventilation.

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Thermally insulating a warm roof often creates a relatively air tight, sealed ceiling which restricts the passage of moisture vapour into the roof structure and increases the risk of condensation. Therefore, warm roofs actually need more ventilation than cold roofs, in accordance with BS 5250. While a warm roof still needs the same 5mm continuous ventilation along the ridge, it does require more ventilation, 25mm, at eaves level. This is why we sell both a 10mm and a 25mm eaves vent system. To prevent condensation forming, you may see architects specifying an air vapour control layer (AVCL) for warm roofs. For non-breathable membrane, the AVCL goes on the warm side of the insulation and ventilated voids should be formed between the underside of the underlay and the insulation. Each void should be at least 25mm deep and vented at both high and low level. With a

breathable membrane, the AVCL is used at the ceiling line and in theory this means no additional ventilation is required. However, to be on the safe side, ventilated voids should still be provided.

Loft conversions When changing an empty loft space (cold roof) into a habitable living area (warm roof), it is easy to overlook the change in ventilation requirements. The main difference is that you will

need to increase the ventilation at eaves level. You need to increase eaves ventilation from 10mm to 25mm continuous ventilation running along the whole length of the eaves, this can be achieved using our 25mm eaves vent system. The high level ridge ventilation requirements remain the same but do check that these are already in place. High level ridge ventilation should be equivalent in area to a 5mm slot for the

length of the ridge. Using our full pitched roof system helps you to ensure you have the right levels of ventilation, whatever the roof construction. For free specifications or further information on ventilation, contact our technical team on 01283 722588.

For further information on Marley online visit www.rdr.link/BH015

100 UP!

roofing, flooring & insulation

BMI previews 100 years of concrete tile manufacture with 180 years of heritage. 2019 sees BMI UK & Ireland celebrate – through its iconic BMI Redland brand – 100 years of concrete tile manufacture, making it the oldest concrete tile maker in the UK. With celebrations due later this year, the company is recalling some of its milestones over the next few months: not just 1919, but from a heritage and pedigree dating back over 180 years. November 1919 was when the Redhill Tile Company was founded, making its first roof tiles, at the rate of 40 per hour, in a sandpit in Reigate, Surrey. The tiles found popularity in the mass market following the General Strike of 1926, when coal-fired plants producing clay items were inoperative as a result of the widespread industrial action. Yet the BMI story started much earlier in 1837, the year of Victoria’s coronation, when George Lewis began making Rosemary clay plain tiles in Cheslyn Hay, Staffordshire. The tiles were made from Etruria marl clay and the same Staffordshire clay is still used to make the tiles today at BMI’s clay plant in the Midlands. He named the tiles after his daughter Rosemary and, for many, a ‘Rosemary’ or ‘Rosie’ has been the generic term for a clay plain tile today. Not long after, in 1849, and a hop across the Irish sea, Anderson & Sons was founded at Lagan Felt Works in Belfast, where they manufactured tarred flax felt. Flax felt is simply composed of jute or flax, which is felted and then saturated in asphalt or bitumen and in a far cry from traditional roofing, the products were used – in the Crimean War– to make huts for the armed

forces. Because of its great flexibility, and the way it can be flashed around details, it is still used in roofing today, where it is often known as ‘Irish felt’ – no doubt a nod to its Belfast heritage. In 1876, and slightly further afield in northern Denmark, Jens Villadsen, a master carpenter specialising in the repair of old tarred-felt and zinc roofs, founded Icopal and in 1894, Jens patented Dansk Tagpixtjære, a revolutionary bitumen-based technology to improve the waterproofing of flat roofs. Operating in parallel, both Icopal and Anderson became incredibly successful flat roofing and waterproofing businesses, with Jens’s patent preceding the invention of the concrete roof tile by the then Redhill Tile Company by 25 years. As November’s concrete tile centenary approaches BMI, formed in 2017 – following the coming together of Icopal and Monier Redland – will be sharing more about its rich heritage, innovation and achievements leading right up to the present day. The company’s experience, traditions, expertise and market-leading brands mean that it is able to see a roof and the sector in terms of how support, service and roofing technologies integrate with the built environment; rather than just through the collection of products that protect a building. BMI UK & Ireland is part of BMI Group, which has more than 11,000 employees worldwide in 40 countries and runs over 150 production facilities. With the group having made its home in central London, BMI UK & Ireland is settled in its head office premises in Milton Keynes.

For more details of BMI UK & Ireland’s heritage and flat and pitched roofing solutions, visit www.rdr.link/BH016

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roofing, flooring & insulation

s with any major work, the first stop in a basement extension should always be to check the requirements in the Building Regs. For insulation, the requirements for basement walls and floors are the same as for any other external wall or ground floor. The table below shows the recommended U-values (thermal performance) for basement walls and floors depending on where the project is and whether you are extending or building entirely from scratch. As a basement is typically surrounded by earth, waterproofing is also a priority. Three options are recommended for basement extensions or new builds: 1 Tanking System – This is a continuous waterproofing membrane which wraps around the outside of the basement structure, preventing groundwater from penetrating. 2 Waterproofed Concrete – This uses a continuous layer of waterproofed concrete in the exterior construction to stop groundwater. 3 Drained Cavity & Damp-Proof Membrane (DPM) – A drainage system where moisture that seeps through a wall into the cavity is collected and channelled away. The DPM together with the drained cavity prevents any water getting into the basement. Whichever option you choose, it is important to also use an insulation that will resist moisture. As a closed cell material, extruded polystyrene insulation (XPS) provides this resistance in addition to excellent compressive strength. This makes the boards ideal for use in cellars.

In practice Let’s take a step by step look at how you can install XPS insulation in a typical cellar. This covers the key points of a typical application but if you are unfamiliar with this type of work, we’d always recommend you get professional advice before you begin.

Drainage ● Start by fitting filter drains around the

perimeter of the basement. These are perforated drainage pipes surrounded by course gravel and need to be fitted 200 mm below the basement floor

NEXT LEVEL Kingspan provides a guide to successfully insulating a basement construction

Wall (W/m²·K) Floor (W/m²·K)

ENGLAND

WALES

New Build 0.16 0.11

Extension 0.28 0.22

SCOTLAND Extension 0.21 0.18

New Build 0.15 0.13

Extension Extension and Refurb A1 and Refurb B 0.17 0.22 0.16 0.18

Table 1 – Recommended U-values for walls and floors in new and extended spaces.

level. A geotextile membrane should also be laid around the gravel to prevent fines blocking the drain. ● Depending upon ground conditions, the drains can be connected to surface drainage systems or soakaways.

Installation below a Floor Slab ● The site should be prepared

and foundations, where appropriate, built to damp proof course (DPC) level. ● A thin sand blinding can be used to level the surface of the hardcore. ● Next, you can either lay a DPM (min 300 micron / 1,200 gauge with joints well lapped and folded) directly over the compacted hardcore followed by insulation boards or vice-versa. ● The membrane needs to be laid under both the basement wall and a

Figure 1 – Basement insulated with Kingspan GreenGuard GG300 XPS insulation

triangular shaped piece of insulation placed between the concrete slab and the outside of the basement wall (see figure 1) and lapped by 300 mm under the basement wall tanking membrane.

PROFESSIONAL BUILDER SEPTEMBER 2019 59

roofing, flooring & insulation ● The insulation boards should always be

loose-laid break-bonded, with the joints lightly-butted. You can cut the XPS boards to fit using a fine-toothed saw. ● If you need two layers of insulation, then it is best to offset the joints (see figure 2). ● A strip of insulation board (min 20 mm thick) should be fitted vertically around the perimeter of the floor slab to stop cold bridging.

horizontal floor insulation (and closely butted up to it). ● If the DPM is laid directly onto the hardcore, the insulation boards should be overlaid with a polythene sheet (not less than 125 micron / 500 gauge). This will stop wet concrete getting into the joints and acts as a vapour control layer. The polythene sheets should have 150mm overlaps and be taped at the joints. ● The concrete slab and screed (or other flooring) can then be installed like a typical un-insulated floor and should be allowed to dry before the floor finish is installed. ● If you’re using reinforced concrete as the main structure of the basement, waterstops must be fitted at the junctions where day joints have been made in the structure to prevent water leakage.

Figure 2 – Offsetting insulation layers.

Basement Walls The top of this strip should be level with the top of the floor screed and the bottom level with the bottom of the

described above. ● You can then fit the insulation boards

outside this membrane. ● A cavity drainage membrane or layer

of washed no fines gravel should be used outside of the insulation boards to allow for drainage. This is covered with a geotextile layer to prevent fines from blocking the drainage material. ● Finally ensure the ground around the structure slopes away from the basement wall so that rainwater drains away from the building. 1 Column A is for extensions where the existing dwelling’s walls and roof U-values are worse than 0.70 W/m²·K in the walls and worse than 0.25 W/m²·K in the ceiling. Column B is for other extensions, upgraded existing thermal elements, non-exempt conservatories and conversion of unheated buildings.

● First, apply a tanking membrane to the

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external face of the basement wall and lap this with the floor membrane as

For further information on Kingspan visit www.rdr.link/017

roofing, flooring & insulation

Recent changes in the planning regulations look set to fuel a boom in the housing renovation market. Chris Ludlow, Contractor Sales Specialist – Team Leader at Rockwool outlines the opportunity.

Steady as a rock

recent report suggests that almost half of the homeowners in the UK are choosing to ‘improve rather than move’ home. As new housebuilding rates continue to fall as political and other factors create uncertainty in the construction industry, renovation work will continue to be the lifeblood of the building trade for the foreseeable future. As new business opportunities present themselves, the switched-on builder will recognise and seize this opportunity with both hands. Back in 2013 the government temporarily relaxed the planning regulations around single storey domestic extensions by introducing PDRs (Permitted Development Rights). PDRs, in short, are a measure that allowed homeowners to add a single-storey extension to their homes without applying for planning permission. These measures really kick-started the housing renovation market at a time when the new build sector was stagnating. The good news is that although initially PDRs were introduced as a temporary measure, from May 2019 they have been made permanent. Removing the red tape permanently is great news for all builders, as it will help keep the renovation market buoyant and provide new business opportunities. The vast majority of renovation projects need the support and skills of professional tradespeople. Homeowners either just don’t have the skills or, in the unlikely event they do, don’t have the time to carry out construction and installation work. What they do have though, is lots of choice when deciding who to call on when they want to undertake a renovation project. Becoming a homeowner’s preferred contractor or

REMEMBER You can access our NEW digital reader enquiry service to fin d out more information by making use of the lin ks at the end of this article.

installer can be a great way to secure repeat business, because as we all know, a lot of work comes from word of mouth. Building trust and credibility therefore – not just being the lowest on price – is essential for anyone in the building trade looking to gain a competitive advantage over other local businesses. Working with the right product manufacturers can really help a business establish the right level of trust and credibility with homeowners. As a business, you might be juggling multiple

projects, which can be tough and stressful. If you can work with materials that are easy to handle and install, and can save you valuable time on-site and cut down on the inconvenience for the customer. A good example of this would be using stone wool insulation as it’s much quicker and simpler to fit. For instance, the patented Rockwool Flexi edge allows for quick installation – simply squeeze between the joists and let the elasticity hold the product in place. Even though it will save you time, don’t think PROFESSIONAL BUILDER SEPTEMBER 2019 63

roofing, flooring & insulation

that it shirks on performance. The Flexi edge will ensure a tight fit with no gaps, providing maximum thermal performance whilst allowing you to easily keep your projects on track. The all-round benefits of stone wool providing excellent thermal and acoustic comfort means your customer satisfaction will be higher. Also, nobody likes to go back to a job and spend lots of time on snagging issues, although using the best possible product for the job is a sure-fire way to avoid that scenario. A case in point might

be a customer wanting to create a quieter and more comfortable environment. A key factor in achieving this would be to source the best quality insulation that’s guaranteed to perform to the highest standards. Making the right product choice is vital to happy customers and ongoing business success. We have clearly segmented our stone wool insulation into two clear ranges: Thermal – the natural solution for insulating lofts, cavity walls and timber frame external walls. Ideal for use in residential extensions and renovations to keep your customers’ homes warmer in winter and cooler in summer. Sound – for partition walls and floors. Engineered specifically to combat impact and airborne nuisance noise, giving you the perfect upsell opportunity for customers, especially ones living in high density situations, where insulation is a key component of a top-quality renovation that will deliver a more peaceful home environment.

Your reputation matters, and we know that upsell only works if you believe in the product. So, we urge you not to just take our word for it, why not check out #TheSoundExperience Demo Truck? Currently touring merchants across the country, the truck allows you to see, hear and feel the difference Rockwool can make on a job. Rockwool Thermal and Sound is available from all good merchants. Our merchant network can offer you the latest expert guidance and advice at the trade counter. For more complex situations, the team can help you either online or on-site with advice for your project.

If you are working with Rockwool and want your project to be the next star case study email us at: marketcomms@rockwool.com. For further information on Rockwool online visit www.rdr.link/BH018

roofing, flooring & insulation

A NEW FASSANATION! Dale Telling, Commercial Manager at Fassa Bortolo, one of the Italian leaders in render solutions, shares his insight into the wide choice of external systems available to housebuilders.

For those developers and builders unaware of the Fassa Bortolo brand, can you tell us a little about the business and its history? Fassa Bortolo is one of the leading Italian manufacturers of renders and integrated building systems. Over 300 years of manufacturing, the company has grown to open a number of distribution units across Europe, including the UK. With a firm set of values, Fassa prides itself on unrivalled product quality, its commitment to research and ethical quarrying.

Many new housing schemes often feature homes that are either fully or partly rendered. What do you see as the main advantage of using a rendered finish on a new home? Unless complying to regulations, the choice is vast, but can be complicated as all systems have varying benefits. We tend to find the key factors are costs, maintenance and aesthetics. Many new build homes are built using medium dense blockwork, as this can help to keep costs of building the structural shell to a minimum. However, we are seeing many new and alternative methods of construction. Rendering provides one of the best solutions for delivering a striking design and seamless, professional finish to a house. Our Fassarend and Fassatherm systems, in particular, are designed to adhere well to masonry and can easily be applied in a matter of days. Single application products such as Fassacouche however, only require one coat, helping to keep both material and labour costs down as they are quick to apply. The integrated board systems like our new Timber Frame System require expert knowledge and more time to mechanically fix to the shell and apply all its components. From a maintenance perspective, a housebuilder can rest assured that a

quality render, which has been installed correctly, will stand the test of time against weathering and any other factors that could damage or discolour the finish. Some render systems are more hard-wearing than others, but homeowners will be able to keep the surface looking its best for a number of years with very little upkeep if the correct render system is used. A crisp white render can be a soughtafter look and is used universally within modern construction. This alone is strong enough to deliver on aesthetics, but often the colour of the render is dependent upon the area in which the building is, so the desired finish may be subject to planning. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re building in an area where the surrounding neighbourhood is mostly stone, chances are you will have to choose a more natural colour.

system based on substrate, requirements and location.

What range of colours is available and which are the most popular? The possibilities are endless when it comes to coloured renders. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re proud to offer our Fassatherm and Fassarend systems in 365 colours as standard, but we have also invested heavily in our distributors, purchasing a number of tinting machines, so they are able to colour match renders to existing RAL shades in store. This innovative technology allows suppliers to offer a solution to any project where colour is particular to customers. In most cases, the chosen colours tend to be more natural.

Can render be applied to any substrate? Providing the specification is correct, we will try our best to find a solution for every substrate; timber or steel frame, masonry, brick or stone, new build or existing. We have a team of specialists at Fassa who are able to specify the correct render

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Fassacouche through coloured render is available in a variety of options

Do you also offer an insulated solution that can help to increase levels of thermal comfort? Although more expensive and complex to install, External Wall Insulation (EWI) render systems can impact the cost of living, reducing fuel bills by up to 40 per cent. Made up of an insulating panel, most commonly made of mineral wool or expanded polystyrene (EPS), reinforcing mesh coats and a finishing render, the Fassatherm system is attractive to potential homeowners, effective at reducing carbon emissions and can be used to build passive houses. A lot of heat escapes through thermal bridges, a weakness in buildings whereby the levels of heat loss are higher. To name a few problem areas, these include windows (approx. 15 per cent) and the roof (approx. 25 per cent), but by far the biggest problem for heat transfer is the walls, with around 35 per cent of lost heat coming through them. With the application of an EWI render

Greencore Construction used the Fassarend timber frame system on a recent project

lock heat in. However, EWI is now commonly used on new build substrates, such as steel and concrete frames.

system, the majority of this escaping heat is retained within the walls. The thickness of the insulation depends upon the Uvalue requirements. For example, Building Regulations currently stipulate that for a new build, the elements must have maximum U-values of 0.3, but this drops dramatically to 0.1 for a passive house. In most regeneration cases, EWI would be installed onto a solid wall construction because there is a continuous cold bridge and the insulation acts like a blanket to

If a housebuilder was to need some training what would you recommend? We offer a number of training days at our HQ in Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire. Delivered over a number of days, we open our facility to housebuilders, renderers and specifiers to help them understand our portfolio of systems. The days are made up of workshops with our on-site demonstrator, seminars and an introduction to our core systems and latest products. Our team of experts will be on hand to answer any questions and you can give our products a go for yourself to see how they handle. These events are completely free to attend. For further information on the range of solutions from Fassa Bortolo go to www.rdr.link/BH019

roofing, flooring & insulation

A QUIET PLACE Anthony Barnett, Technical Marketing Manager at Armacell, looks at how open plan living, timber floors and more bathrooms have made internally generated noise one of the single most common bugbears of homeowners.

However, fitting flexible insulation forms around rainwater and wastewater pipes is one of the best ways of dramatically reducing this noise. As a relatively inexpensive material, yet offering benefits that have a high perceived value with homeowners, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a great product to add to your portfolio:

STEP 1 Cut the acoustic foam sheet to suit the circumference of the rainwater or wastewater pipe. Apply adhesive to the seams in a thin layer, allow to tack dry.

STEP 2 Apply to the pipe and press together at the ends and then in the middle. Close the entire seam starting from the middle. Apply tape at intervals around the circumference of the pipe to hold in place. As an alternative to sealing with adhesives, the foam can be fixed using steel wires at 10-15cm intervals.

STEP 3 When fixing acoustic insulation to a 90 degree bend, download the appropriate template for each dimension from our website. Transfer the outline of the pieces to an ArmaComfort sheet and cut out.

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

STEP 4 To create the 90 degree bend, install the throat pieces (A), then the back section (B), before covering with the recommended tape (C).

STEP 5 Job done.

Independent tests show that acoustic foams are able to reduce airborne sound pressure levels of a Geberit roof drainage system by 16 dB (A) at 2 l/s water flow. Similar tests on a PVC pipe, where the vibrations caused by flowing water are stronger because of the lighter weight PVC, achieved a noise reduction of 12 dB (A). To put this in perspective, the human ear perceives a reduction of 10 dB (A) as halving the volume!

For further information on the new ArmaComfort acoustic insulation materials online visit www.rdr.link/BH020

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roofing, flooring & insulation product round-up

GLASS WOOL INSULATION The bright, new, colourcoded Superglass packaging is designed to make it easier to pair a product to its application. The design employs simple graphics to show each product’s features and benefits, while the strong colours make sure they’re easy to find and identify. The product is made from up to 84 per cent recycled glass and, according to its manufacturer, is estimated to save around 300 times the amount of energy used to manufacture it. For more details online, go to www.rdr.link/BH074

ROOFING SYSTEM Featuring a quick fix system, and seven times lighter than clay or slate tile equivalents, SSR2 from Catnic claims to be fast, easy and safe to install. Manufactured from Tata Steel Colorcoat HPS200 Ultra pre-finished steel – and featuring an optimised Galvalloy coating for corrosion resistance and edge protection – it is suitable for a wide variety of projects and a range of configurations, including pitched roofs as low as 5°. For more details online, go to www.rdr.link/BH076

GRP ROOFING SOLUTION Builders can now avoid having to strip back roofs before applying a liquid system with the Cromar Flexiglass System. A solution to revitalising an existing roof, it can be applied onto roofing felt, asphalt, single ply membranes, metals and existing liquid applied systems. Benefits include being UV stable, storm-proof, frostproof, impact resistant and foot trafficable, whilst the product is also hardwearing and rapid curing. For more details online, go to www.rdr.link/BH075

CLAY TILES Because they are equally suitable for vertical applications, Marley’s Acme Double Camber in Burnt Flame can create a seamless transition from roof to exterior wall. The tiles are also accredited to the BES 6001 framework standard for ‘Responsible Sourcing’, which means projects using its clay tiles can now achieve extra credits under BREEAM. For more details online, go to www.rdr.link/BH077

THE TRADESHOW BUILT FOR THE TRADE PROFESSIONAL BUILDER

TOOLFAIR 2019

POWER TOOLS • HAND TOOLS • BUILDING EQUIPMENT

All the latest tools, live demos, show specials – all under one roof! Ricoh Arena, Coventry: Thursday 19th & Friday 20th September Sandown Park, Surrey: Thursday 7th & Friday 8th November

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CEILING MOUNT Iso-Mount Type1, the isolating ceiling mount from Oscar Acoustics, reduces transmission of noise from the floor above whilst only losing 6mm of ceiling height. The firerated mount fixes to the sides of timber floor joists and takes the weight of the ceiling boards, the insulation and any items fixed to the ceiling boards. According to the manufacturer, the installation is a fast and simple clip together process giving the appearance of a standard plastered ceiling. For more details online, go to www.rdr.link/BH021

DEFLECTION HEAD Aiming to take the hassle out of constructing deflection head details, Knauf’s Deflection Head Fire Seal reduces complexity when installing drywall systems. An alternative to the arduous traditional plasterboard fillet deflection head, this elastic polyurethane foam with intumescent firestop additives acts as a firestop and acoustic solution at the partition top track whilst providing up to 25mm deflection capability. For more details online, go to www.rdr.link/BH022

SUSPENDED CONCRETE FLOORING

FIREPROOF MEMBRANE

Expanded polystyrene combined with concrete beams is set to become the standard flooring solution for homebuilders in the UK. That’s according to the Cambridgeshire based specialists behind eFloor Plus, a new EPS suspended concrete flooring solution from Floorspan Contracts. The traditional breeze block is replaced with environmentally friendly EPS infill panels. The floor is then overlaid with a variable depth sheet of expanded polystyrene so that higher levels of thermal efficiency can be achieved. For more details online, go to www.rdr.link/BH023

Research to produce a vapour permeable membrane with a fire proof surface, has resulted in A.Proctor Group’s Fireshield, which is designed specifically to improve the fire protection behind cladding. The membrane features an intumescent composition that actively reacts to prevent fire taking hold. This unique coating extinguishes fire rather than just resisting it, and significantly reduces the formation of droplets and smoke. For more details online, go to www.rdr.link/BH025

ROOF INSULATION Engineered with both thermal performance and acoustics in mind, Metac glass mineral wool insulation from Isover is a pitched roof insulation solution designed to reduce unwelcome external noise by 49 dB (RW). Manufactured from up to 80 per cent recycled glass, it is also noncombustible and achieves an A1 Euroclass fire rating. As well as providing comfort for homeowners, the insulation presents many benefits to the installer too, saving both time and labour on site. For more details online, go to www.rdr.link/BH024

VAPOUR CONTROL LAYER A next generation air and vapour control layer system suitable for use as part of warm roof build-ups has been launched by Firestone. Developed to combine vapour control with adhesion to both the substrate and the insulation layer, V-Gard is a glass fibre-reinforced aluminium foil membrane with a self-adhesive backing. A film coating on the aluminium face ensures compatibility with PU-adhesives. For more details online, go to www.rdr.link/BH026

Bored Of Cutting Rigid Insulation? What can SFS insulation do to help? Vaulted Roof Room In Roof Loft Conversion Hipped Roof Lantern Roof Retrofit Masonry Cavity Wall Timber Framed Walls

Walltite closed cell foam manufactured in Derby UK BASF Accredited Foam Master Installer Fully BBA And LABC Approved No more ventilation space above insulation needed Rapid Installation with minimal waste Air tight insulation with excellent U Values Can be spray applied or Cavity Injected Similar product to Rigid PIR Boards but AIRTIGHT No more onsite cutting of insulation boards

For more information or to obtain a free quotation call Pete on 01788 570550 email: peter@sprayfoamsolutions.co.uk www.sprayfoamsolutions.co.uk

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masonry materials & landscaping

SPECIAL INTEREST

Brick manufacture at Cradley Special Brick

One of Britain’s biggest building materials manufacturers, Forterra, has a division dedicated entirely to the design and manufacture of brick specials: Cradley Special Brick, at Cradley Heath in the Black Country.

he facility’s British Standard and non-standard ranges are complemented by its bespoke range, which at present has 7,323 unique patterns for tailor-made brick specials. Cradley’s products are frequently used in the construction of new builds, as well as for the maintenance and improvement of historic buildings across the UK. Cradley’s broad British Standard brick range encompasses solid, perforated and frogged types of the following varieties: bullnose, plinth, pistol, radial, soldier, bonding, arch and angle and cant brick specials, all manufactured to BS 4729. The bricks are available in red, blue, buff, brown and brindle, with a smooth finish. Regularly supplied to housebuilders and self-builders, the bricks are often incorporated into everyday building elements, from garden walls to landscaping and refurbishment projects, as well as larger-scale commercial builds and individual DIY projects. John Richardson, General Manager at

Cradley Special Brick, explains: “The beauty of our British Standard brick specials is their ability to offer solutions to all sorts of practical and logistical challenges faced by builders, from the need to source a specific colour brick to complement or contrast with an existing area of brickwork, to a request for sophisticated detailing on an extension or conversion designed to enhance the appearance of the build.” What makes Cradley’s brick offering unique is the fact that the regular range is available to builders nationwide via nextday delivery. Kelly Azram, Brick Specials Sales Executive at Cradley, adds: “The fact that our regular range is readily available, and can be on site the day after an order is placed, reflects the reliability and flexibility of our service. Not only do we manufacture a diverse range of standard specials that suit repair, maintenance and improvement projects, as well as new builds, but our bricks can provide solutions almost as soon as the need for

Self-build boundary wall featuring Cradley Special Brick’s British Standard bullnose double headers on flat, with stopends and 90 degree returns

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masonry materials & landscaping

them arises.” One of Cradley Special Brick’s most popular ranges is the bullnose, which is traditionally used to create a softer appearance in walls, around openings and at the corners of buildings. Also popular are Cradley’s plinth stretchers, which enable the creation of single and double coursing at the base of a building, as well as its red and blue cill bricks. These are ready to order via next-day delivery, along with the bullnose and plinth ranges. The bonding range, meanwhile, enables brick bonding in solid walls and

eliminates the need for bricks to be cut on site when construction is already underway, saving time and labour midbuild. Angle bricks, in turn, allow brickwork to rotate through 30, 45 and 60 degree angles with various bonding patterns. Traditionally, soldier bricks have helped to add diversity to large areas of brickwork in the form of varying colours and textures; and, increasingly, the soldier range is used for the creation of splay detailing for window surrounds and corner details. For builds that require circular or semicircular brickwork, Cradley’s radial specials form such details without tapered joints, whereas its arch bricks are used for bullseye and segmental features. John Richardson concludes: “Our British Standard range offers a level of detail that can give a seamless finish to a build. We are proud to offer consistently high-quality craftsmanship in the form of dozens of variations of special brick, and the short turnaround of our regular range

Cradley Special Brick’s perforated bullnose brick, used to create a softer appearance in walls, around openings and at the corners of buildings

delivery means that builders can rely on us to deliver first-rate products within a competitive timeframe.” In addition to its product design and manufacture, Cradley Special Brick offers a comprehensive technical support service to all of its customers. As well as technical advice, this service can include on-site involvement at all stages of a project. For further information on the Cradley’s special brick range visit www.rdr.link/BH027

masonry materials & landscaping

On the tiles

Mark Atkins, Technical Director, LTP examines the challenges associated with the rise of porcelain paving.

Grout and resin staining on porcelain paving can ruin an installation

t’s been pretty incredible to see the rise of the porcelain paver this year. Domestic and contract customers have really embraced these new tiles. They do bring lots of benefits, in terms of their many practical features with their durability and non-absorbency both big benefits outdoors. The new textured finishes also make them a lot more practical. But, like all new trends, they bring new challenges. The main issues relate to residues. When using a brush-in jointing compound, it’s very important to keep the surface of these tiles as wet as possible, so that any residue can be easily wiped away. Porcelain tiles can dry out quite quickly, causing an element of the resin within the compound to cling to the surface. The textured nature of most external porcelains also makes it more difficult to apply grouts and jointing compounds. Keeping the surface wetter for longer helps to improve and increase the working time of grouts and jointing compounds – and greatly reduces the possibility of grout and resin staining. Dried on jointing compound can be difficult to remove and the residue left can ruin an installation.

In response, we’ve developed two new products for unpolished porcelain. Our new Porcelain Tile Protector is applied before grouting. Once it has dried it helps with cement and jointing compound release. This water-based treatment is designed to protect tiles from staining, and allow easy removal of residues of cementbased grouts and two-part resin based jointing compounds, as well as stubborn organic matter. Ideal for textured wood and stoneeffect patios, the product creates a barrier, without forming a film or altering appearance. This helps to improve and increase the working time of grouts and jointing compounds – and greatly reduces the risk of cement and resin staining. The new protector is easy to apply – with a spray, roller or brush. Once residues have been removed – and the surface is dry – a further coat can be applied to the tiles and joints, to help assist with future cleaning and aftercare. LTP Porcelain Tile Protector is manufactured by LTP in the UK and is available from UK stock, in one litre and five litre bottles. For surfaces that have been stained, our new acid replacement Cement, Grout

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Using ‘acid replacement technology’, Cement, Grout and Salt Residue Remover has been developed to remove cement stains

and Salt Residue Remover can also turn back the clock for cement stains. The new solution replaces conventional acids normally used to remove cement and grout residues, and can be used on all types of tile and natural stone surfaces, except those with a polished finish. This means it can be safely applied to unpolished acid-sensitive surfaces, including limestone and travertine. As well as removing new and existing building residues, the new treatment also

disperses rising salt residues caused by issues including substrate moisture and spot fixing. Developed and manufactured in the UK, the new Residue Remover can be used indoors and outside on porcelain, glazed ceramics, quarry tiles and terracotta, slate, brick, sandstone, granite and unpolished natural stone. A diluted application removes mild residue within 30 minutes, whilst a neat application and agitation gives instant results. Deposits are then removed and surfaces rinsed with clean water. Part of LTP’s ‘clean-seal-maintain’ range, it is available in one litre and five litre cartons and gives coverage of approx. 5-25m2 per litre. Other complementary treatments include LTP Grimex – a heavy-duty intensive cleaner that can be used before application of the Protector – and LTP Porcelain Floor Tile Cleaner – a highly effective no-rinse aftercare cleaner for indoor and outdoor spaces. In addition to new developments in the product range, aftercare education is also very important. We’re routinely recommending that customers don’t stop at the bi-folds when they’re cleaning porcelain that’s installed from inside to out. They need to keep going and mop the patio too! This greatly reduces the need for intensive cleaning outdoors – although we have various eco-friendly options up our sleeve should the need arise. Elsewhere in the range, if dark natural stone and artificial stone surfaces have been installed, then tradespeople should turn to LTP’s new outdoor sealer and restorer, Blackstone. Available in 250ml, one litre and five litre units, its water-based, impregnating formulation, restores the appearance of faded limestone, marble, slate and concrete. The solution can be applied in multiple coats until the desired colour effect is achieved – from grey to ebony. On honed surfaces, it is applied with a cloth or sealant applicator and, on rough cut/textured surfaces, with a foam roller or paintbrush. It is then ‘cut back’ to remove excess. Surfaces can be walked on four hours after the final application and can be returned to ‘heavy use’ after 24 hours.

For information on LTP online visit www.rdr.link/BH028

masonry materials & landscaping

Adam Brindle, MD of The Grounds Care Group and Japanese Knotweed expert, explains the challenges faced by construction professionals in eradicating this most pesky of plants.

he Japanese have long provided the UK with a wealth of precious commodities, from reliable cars to ingenious electronics. However, one of their least welcome exports (notwithstanding karaoke!) that has made its way to our shores is Japanese Knotweed. This most troublesome guest began its UK vacation in the 1850s when it wowed Victorian botanists with its exotic appeal, and soon became commonplace in many a well-to-do garden. However, gardening trends soon moved on and this horticultural flavour of the month, and its resilient roots, were discarded by the wayside. Little did the gardening gurus of the day know, they were actually unleashing a fiendish devil weed into the wild. Since Japanese Knotweed can regrow from just a 2mm fragment of root, that’s just what it did. The inhospitable rocky terrain of the quarries and roadsides where it was dumped were nothing to this voracious vine that found its origins on the hostile slopes of volcanoes in Japan. Today, a century and a half on, it remains the blight of developers, architects, house builders, surveyors, and project managers up and down the country.

TALKING JAPANESE

Dangerously Strong The pesky plant isn’t always easy to identify, and although it can look similar to bamboo, they are not in the same family. You’ll know Japanese Knotweed by its spade-shaped leaves, which can grow up to five and a half inches in length. During the late summer, it can also be identified by its creamy-white flowers. On its never-ending search for growth and sustenance, it can grow through brick walls and even concrete when it finds a weak spot. As it makes its way, it’ll cause untold damage to buildings, foundations, pavements and even invade properties if

they get in its way. The power and speed of Knotweed would almost be something to admire if it weren’t for the destructive nature of this villainous weed. Ever eager to expand its territorial domination, the plant will infiltrate the tiniest of cracks and wind its wily way through drains and underground sewers. Combined with its tenacity and resilience, it is its rapacious growth which

makes it a truly unwelcome garden guest, and an even less welcome property invader. Able to grow up to an incredible 10cm a day, it will target weak spots in buildings, crack masonry, split pipes and ravage foundations if left unchecked. And it shows no respect for fences and boundaries either, eagerly spreading from one garden to the next above or below ground. All of this can have a seriously adverse effect on land and property prices. If a property is found to have an infestation on or within 7m of its land, it is extremely

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masonry materials & landscaping

‘damage’, in so much as no physical damage had to take place, but merely the presence of just the root in a neighbouring land was classed as damage.

difficult to secure a mortgage and could result in significant diminution of value. From a commercial perspective, it’s not always advisable to walk away if a development has knotweed, as it’s not necessarily bad news, and its effective removal can often be factored into the project. Also, if your knotweed problem has arisen as a result of a neighbouring property or landowner you then could pursue claim for any damages and/or loss of value.

Your legal responsibility As an individual and/or organisation you have a legal responsibility for the containment and safe disposal of Japanese Knotweed. Failure to control its spread to a neighbouring property can now lead to prosecution, and a hefty fine for anti-social behaviour as well. Schedule 9, Section 14 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 states that “if any person plants or otherwise causes to grow in the wild any plant which is included in Part 2 of Schedule 9, he shall be guilty of an offence”. (Japanese Knotweed is a Schedule 9 listed plant). However, updates to the guidance documents now specifically name Japanese Knotweed alongside Himalayan Balsam and Giant Hogweed as a source of “serious problems” and state that an individual failing to control the troublesome triffid will have committed a criminal offence. Indeed, the government has reformed the Anti Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, so that community protection notices can be used against individuals who are acting unreasonably

Surveying and Removing Japanese Knotweed

and who persistently or continually act in a way that has a detrimental effect on the quality of life of those in the locality. Meaning if you fail to deal with the problem you could end up with an ASBO! For companies the cost on noncompliance can run into the tens of thousands of pounds. Indeed, we have heard of one case involving just 1sqm of knotweed which resulted in an out of court settlement of £50,000. Due to the significant pay outs involved, it is no surprise that lawyers are jumping in on the act and also using private nuisance laws to pursue claims. In 2013, Stephen Williams and Robin Waistell, two residents in South Wales, made a claim against Network Rail, which owned the land immediately behind their properties. Japanese Knotweed had been present for at least 50 years on the land. The neighbours complained about the encroachment on to their land, and were awarded damages when the judge ruled it as a natural hazard affecting landowners’ ability to fully use and enjoy their property. The interesting thing about this case, was that it re-defined the word

Getting rid of Japanese Knotweed is no easy task, and the best solution is to contact a professional removal company as soon as you have identified it on your property so that an effective maintenance or removal plan can be established. But if you are considering tackling the problem yourself, here are a few things you need to know. Japanese Knotweed can grow up to 10cm a day with roots burrowing down as deep as 3 metres. For this reason, it is important to get started on removing it as soon as possible. No infestation is the same. Different solutions for removing Knotweed include herbicide treatment, stem injection, excavating infected areas of ground with machinery, or a special root barrier to halt the spread of the irksome weed. Once removed, it needs to be disposed of to ensure it can’t regrow. Offsite burial can be expensive since the soil is classified as controlled waste in the UK, a sifting and screening service removes fragments of the root and rhizomes from the soil, which means less waste and a lower cost.

For more information on how to deal with your Japanese Knotweed problem visit www.rdr.link/BH029

masonry materials & landscaping

A FENCE OF OCCASION S

John Abernethie, CEO at Birkdale highlights the benefits of the new Fencemate DuraPost and talks us through the product’s ergonomic design and simple installation.

teel fence posts provide a strong and reliable system that will not alter or weaken over time. At Birkdale we have developed the innovative Fencemate DuraPost. Manufactured from cold rolled galvanised steel, this enables it to withstand wind speeds of up to 70 miles per hour. Not only is it stronger than timber, it is also six-times less volume than a standard timber or concrete fencepost, and designed to be installed safely, efficiently and correctly, first time. In addition, concrete fencing requires two individuals for the install due to its weight. DuraPost is up to 80 per cent lighter than concrete alternatives, so it is easy to transport, store and carry. As it can be installed by a single trade professional, the product can cut build time in half when compared with concrete fence posts.

HOW TO INSTALL FENCEMATE DURAPOST WITH PREFABRICATED FENCE PANELS

Step 1: Dig a hole 60 centimetres deep at both ends of the desired length of fence and insert a post into each hole. Check that the height of the two posts is consistent by tying a line – for example a fishing line – from one to another. Use a measuring tape to check the height will be the same at various points along the line.

Step 2: Set the two posts in place with Fencemate Post Concrete whilst checking that they are upright. Dig a third hole for the next post at an applicable distance – a fence panel’s length from the first hole.

Step 3: Position the lightweight DuraPost gravel board in the channel of the first post at the correct height, and secure it to the back of the post with colour matched screws. The gravel board needs to be set level for prefabricated panels.

Step 4: Slide the prefabricated fence panel into the channel above the gravel board and check the height is as desired.

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Step 5: Secure the back of the panel to the post with screws.

Step 6: Position the next into the third hole before checking the alignment of its channel with the pre-installed fence panel and gravel board.

Step 7: Secure the post to the fence panel and gravel board with colour matched screws and set the post in place with concrete.

Step 8: Repeat the above steps as needed. Colour matched capping rails and post caps can then be fitted with screws, if desired, to create a smart and quality finish.

The system is compatible with any type of timber fence panel or build-on-site fencing. It is also available in a choice of profiles and colours, with a range of capping accessories, to suit a variety of garden aesthetics.

For further information on Birkdaleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fencing products online visit www.rdr.link/BH030

masonry materials & landscaping product round-up

LONDON BRICK

STONE CLADDING

Forterra’s Kings Dyke brickworks has been in continuous brick production since 1969, when the works was brought into operation. London Bricks are made from Lower Oxford Clay from the Jurassic Period, sourced on site at Must Farm Quarry. Running in a vein from Yorkshire to Dorset, this clay is noted for its self-burning quality, making it an efficient raw material. For more details online, go to www.rdr.link/BH031

Made from natural stone, the ZClad cladding system aims to add aesthetic value to a project, whether building a contemporary or traditional design. With multiple interior and exterior applications, the modular z-shaped panels provide a seamless finish for straight walling and cornering. According to the manufacturer, its system can be erected in a fraction of the time taken by conventional methods. For more details online, go to www.rdr.link/BH034

WALL TIES CAVITY WEEP Now totally transparent and virtually invisible, the new Ultra-Clear Rytweep cavity weep hole duct from Rytons Building Products blends with any colour brickwork or mortar, allowing every finish to use the same weeps. Saving housebuilders and brickwork contractors the extra time, money and waste involved when sourcing weeps in multiple colours for different house types. For more details online, go to www.rdr.link/BH032

Holding 50 individual ties, TiePac is the new packaging system for Vista’s VE4 housing ties designed for less wasteful, more efficient brickwork and blocklaying of every kind. Wall ties are kept safely on the dispensing clip until they’re needed, ensuring more of them go into the wall joint instead of into the ground or down to the bottom of the cavity. Any leftover ties can be packed away in the box for the next job. For more details online, go to www.rdr.link/BH035

SAND CEMENT MORTAR Hanson’s Sand Cement Mortar is a generalpurpose mortar suitable for patching, rendering, brick laying, pointing and general repairs. The M6 specification is available in 5kg and 20kg bags, while the M12 one comes in 20kg bags. Both products are available in durable, new-look, plastic, weatherproof packaging, giving them a longer life. For more details online, go to www.rdr.link/BH033

PATIO CLEANER Thompson’s Advanced Patio and Block Paving Cleaner is a waterbased treatment for the removal of dirt, mould and algae from patio and block paving. It will also help to prevent moss and mould re-growth for six months on patio and paving slabs, block paving, flag stones, concrete, tarmac, red bricks, tiles and terracotta. For more details online, go to www.rdr.link/BH036

GENERAL BUILDING WATERPROOFING ADMIXTURE As a hydrophilic crystalline admixture, Krytonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Krystol Internal Membrane provides a permanent waterproofing solution to concrete structures. The technology chemically reacts with water and un-hydrated cement particles to block channels in the concrete, preventing water from penetrating the surface. Any moisture introduced over the lifespan of the concrete will initiate further crystallization, ensuring a continuous waterproof seal. For more details online, go to www.rdr.link/BH037

UFH SMART CONTROLS Compatible with leading home smart systems, Polypipe has developed a new range of smart controls which allow customers to adjust the temperature of their underfloor heating system using a smartphone, tablet or touchscreen thermostat. The controls are designed to operate more efficiently and save money and energy over the whole life of installation and use. For more details online, go to www.rdr.link/BH038

SHOWER ENCLOSURE A new addition to the growing Kinedo portfolio has arrived in the form of the Eclipse shower enclosure. The range features multiple sizes and configurations, including corner and recessed and can be specified with either pivot or sliding doors to suit a wide range of installations up to 1,600mm in length. Each door and panel is manufactured from toughened 6mm glass which lightens the load for the installer. For more details online, go to www.rdr.link/BH041

WOODCARE RANGE The Ronseal Trade range contains essential trade-grade products for professional tradespeople tasked with protecting, treating, and preserving wood, both inside and out. The range includes 10-Year Woodstain, Crystal Clear Exterior Varnish and Ultra Tough Floor Varnish, which gives long lasting protection from scuffs, knocks and scratches with a satin sheen. For more details online, go to www.rdr.link/BH039

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

FLOORING PANEL Available in 18mm or 22mm, Norbord’s CaberShieldPlus is a chipboard flooring panel with a permanent waterproof, protective layer on the top and bottom of the panel. It has been specifically designed for construction when the roof still hasn’t been placed, or before the building is watertight. With a permanent, waterproof coating on both sides, the flooring is resistant to the elements for up to 60 days. For more details online, go to www.rdr.link/BH042

DOOR HARDWARE Previously certified as an 80kg system, P C Henderson has increased the weight capacity of its range of Rustic sliding barn door style hardware to match builders’ desire to install a variety of door designs. The company’s Rustic 100 and Rustic Top Mount systems now feature a weight capacity of 100kg, able to support virtually any door style and size. For more details online, go to www.rdr.link/BH040

WOOD TREATMENT With the launch of Bond It’s new 3 in 1 Wood Treatment, as part of its Drive Alive Range, you certainly won’t be bothered by woodworm or termites. This ready to use 3 in 1 micro-emulsion universal wood preserver kills active woodworm and termites and protects against reinfestation and wood rot. There are zero volatile organic compounds (VOCs), whilst it’s water-based, non-flammable and quick drying. For more details online, go to www.rdr.link/BH043

LIQUID ROOFING SYSTEM Isoflex Professional High Performance Liquid Rubber is a complete liquid rubber roofing system, comprising a high-performance liquid rubber and primer, and a clean-up fluid for a professional finish. The solution claims to be five times more flexible than traditional bitumen coatings, whilst providing up to 20 years of protection for all types of roofing including felt, asphalt, slate and tiles. For more details online, go to www.rdr.link/BH044

TOOLS & EQUIPMENT POWER TOOL RANGE JCB Tools has launched a new range of power and hand tools. The cordless range includes power tools featuring brushless motors – providing great benefits to the user. The tools are powered by lithium ion batteries providing a range of kit options from 2Ah through to 5Ah. This technology enables the prolonged use of cordless power tools and maximum mobility. The range is powered by a single battery solution across all products in order to maximise flexibility, economy and mobility. For more details online, go to www.rdr.link/BH045

LOOSE-FIT TROUSERS With a range of new AllroundWork stretch trousers available throughout the UK, there’s plenty of flexibility for every professional craftsman and woman to stretch their performance on site. The new stretchy work trousers for men have a loose fit for a classic Snickers Workwear look and feel, with stretch Cordura for increased durability as well as improved ventilation and close quarter mobility. For more details online, go to www.rdr.link/BH046

IMPACT DRIVER ACCESSORIES Makita has launched its latest accessory series for its impact drivers – Impact Black. A high durability range suited for professional use, all components can be recognised by a unique black coating designed to prevent rusting and ensure longevity. The range includes 25mm screw bits, 50mm screw bits, and four 50mm magnetic nut setters with a ¼in. hex shank in sizes 6mm, 8mm, 10mm and 13mm. For more details online, go to www.rdr.link/BH047

MODULAR SPRAYING SYSTEM In collaboration with professional users, a new generation of paint spraying systems has been developed that claims to not compromise where quality, functionality and price-performance are concerned. According to Wagner, its XVLP series provides 30 per cent greater area coverage and 60 per cent higher air volume than other lowpressure devices. For more details online, go to www.rdr.link/BH048

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SLIDE COMPOUND MITRE SAWS HiKOKI Power Tools has introduced cordless 36V slide compound mitre saws with a 185mm blade and a 255mm blade. Both models have high efficiency, low maintenance brushless motors. To ensure the highest levels of accuracy and safety, both saws have a laser guide system and LED worklights so users can be confident of making precise, safe cuts. For more details online, go to www.rdr.link/BH049

18V CORDLESS RANGE By launching ‘Biturbo’ models, Bosch has expanded its 18V cordless range into tool classes once thought beyond the reach of battery-powered equipment. More powerful than previous cordless products, the company says the new saws, rotary hammers and angle grinders give equivalent performance to corded tools rated between 1,000 and 1,800W. A specially developed motor and advanced electronics allow full use to be made of the firm’s ProCORE18V batteries’ potential to drive and maintain high currents for more power-intensive applications. For more details online, go to www.rdr.link/BH050

SAFETY SHOES AND BOOTS Combining maximum comfort and protection with a robust and durable design, Solid Gear’s Onyx is available as a shoe or a boot and ideal for different types of on-site work. This EN-accredited footwear has a modern-looking style that integrates a seamless upper and Cordura reinforcements with a poured polyeurethane midsole, a breathable footbed and strong rubber outsole for maximum grip on slippery and uneven surfaces. For more details online, go to www.rdr.link/BH051

WORK LIGHT The Hexatec range from Unilite consists of three industrially tough hexagon shaped work lights that are built to excel in a builder’s environment. Protection is provided by a tough aluminum and hardened rubber construction, which achieves IP65 dust & water resistance and IK07 shock resistance. The SLR-1300 has a 1300 Lumen output, the SLR-2500 has a 2500 Lumen output and the largest unit, the SLR-4750, has a 4750 Lumen output. These all provide a wide spread of beam thanks to their COB LED. For more details online, go to www.rdr.link/BH052

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TOOLS & EQUIPMENT

No.1

THE BRUSH OFF In our new series, the Makita team will discuss some of the most innovative tool technologies available on the market, and look at how they can benefit tradespeople. In the first instalment of the Tech Talk series, Tony Coleman, Technical Manager at Makita explains what brushless motors are and how they can benefit tradespeople.

You’ve no doubt come across the term ‘brushless motor’ by now, when looking for a new power tool – but what does that actually mean? Looking at a traditional brushed motor first, it has four basic parts: carbon blocks (the brushes), a ring of magnets (the stator), an armature (the rotor), and a rotary electrical switch (commutator). The magnets and brushes are stationary, while the armature and commutator rotate together on a motor shaft within the magnets. The carbon blocks conduct a magnetic current between the stator and the rotor within the motor. By using positive and negative magnetic fields, the brushes turn the motor, which makes the tool work. Although effective, brushed motors are more prone to suffer from wear and tear – this is because the brushes make contact with the commutator within the motor. This contact causes friction, which ultimately results in the brushes having to be replaced regularly during the lifetime of the tool, incurring an ongoing maintenance cost. Alternatively, brushless motors don’t have carbon brushes or a commutator, but instead utilise an on-board electric circuit and the motor works on electric

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currents. The locations of the magnets and windings are also reversed: the magnets (the stator) are on the conventional motor shaft and the copper windings of the armature (the rotor) are fixed and surround the shaft.

Magnetic Forces To operate, the on-board electronic circuit sends electronic currents towards the stator coils. When the stator coils receive the electric currents, they become electromagnets and the position of the north and south poles within the motor changes. This pulls or resists the rotor’s magnet and makes the rotor rotate continuously. The omission of brushes makes brushless motors incredibly efficient – as there is no friction created, and the tool does not waste energy through heat production. Even in hard industrial

New Series

applications where the tool is in use for extended periods of time, brushless motors produce considerably less heat at the housing surface compared to brushed alternatives. This ultimately increases productivity, as operators can continue to work without concerns of the tool overheating. Subsequently, this also means that brushless motors have longer run times – in some cases up to 30 per cent more. Without brushes applying friction within the motor, a brushless motor can also produce more torque per weight – this is because torque is not affected by friction and heat production. This means that less power is required to use the tool – again, improving efficiency and extending the lifespan of the tool as it requires less maintenance. As brushless motors include fewer moving parts, they can also benefit from a more compact design compared to tools that include brushed motors. This means that the tools themselves can be smaller and lighter – major benefits for tradespeople who use the tools for extended periods of

time, as muscle fatigue can be reduced. Brushless tools are certainly worth a look – especially for tools that will be used regularly for extended periods of time. For example, Makita’s new DRS780Z 18Vx2 185mm Brushless Circular Saw includes the precision engineered Makita brushless motor, which has been designed to be up to 50 per cent more efficient compared to alternative models.

Battery Power The DRS780Z also benefits from the inclusion of a 36V motor, which is powered by two 18V Lithium-ion batteries. A pair of fully charged 18V Lithium-ion batteries from Makita will last almost twice as long as a tool that is run on a standard motor. This significantly improves on-site productivity as, not only can the tool be used for longer, but Makita’s 18V Lithium-Ion batteries also charge within just 22 minutes (3Ah) and 55 minutes (6Ah) – meaning tradespeople can get back to work quickly. Power tools that utilise a brushless motor can be incredibly beneficial. Makita’s brushless motors are more efficient compared to brushed alternatives and result in fewer maintenance costs due to reduced friction inside the motor. Reduced friction also keeps the temperature of the tool more consistent, preventing the tool from overheating and subsequently increasing onsite productivity.

To find out more about Makita and its brushless technology visit www.rdr.link/BH053

TOOLS & EQUIPMENT

No.3 in the series

PULLING OUT ALL THE STOPS

Dr. Steve Gass is patent attorney, doctorate physician and one of the four founders of SawStop.

SawStop is a pioneering new technology designed to prevent serious injuries when operating table saws.

ince 2004, SawStop has recorded over 6,000 recorded finger saves. Events that could have been life-changing injuries were reduced to small scratches by a safety system that stops a spinning table saw blade on contact with skin. Dr. Steve Gass, one of the company’s four founders, invented this game-changing technology, which has been implemented into table saws since 2004. We met Dr. Gass in Portland, Oregon, at the company’s headquarters, and asked him six pivotal questions.

SawStop was founded by you and three other founders. How did you first meet and how was the idea born? The four founders were all working together as patent attorneys in a patent law firm in Portland, Oregon. I have done woodworking as a hobby since I was a small child and I was out in my shop one day when the idea came to me: I wonder if you could stop a table saw blade fast enough to prevent serious injury? I also

have a doctorate in physics and after a few calculations of the energy and forces involved, I concluded that it should be possible. It took me about a month of my spare time evenings and weekends to build the first prototype.

Why did you start to develop a safety technology for table saws? At the time I came up with the idea I knew other woodworkers who had suffered injuries on table saws and I was aware of the hazard that using table saws presents. I have not been injured by the blade on a table saw myself, but given my sometimes imperfect technique, I probably need SawStop technology more than the average user!

packs during our testing. But, from the very beginning the technology was very reliable, so usually the hot dogs only got a few nicks before being offered as treats to my Great Danes.

What was the most significant finger save story in your company’s history? We have had finger saves where users slapped their hand down onto the blade, where their glove was caught and jerked their hand into the blade and many others. In each case, the system has worked as intended and the user came away with a relatively minor injury.

How many saw blades did it take until the technology was working reliably? …and how many fingers? I did the first tests on my prototype by touching the side of the blade – so no fingers were sacrificed! When I started testing contact with the teeth, I switched to hot dogs and we went though many

Do you get fan mail from people whose fingers were saved? I remember two in particular, one from a mum in Chicago whose 15-year-old son came home with both thumbs from a school shop class because of our saw, and another very early on from a man who lost two fingers as a young man on a saw that didn’t have our technology. He sent a simple sketch where he had drawn the outline of his hand missing fingers and he described the lifelong consequences. It was one of the most moving things I have ever received.

“SawStop has over 6,000 reported finger saves to date” For further information on the SawStop system visit www.rdr.link/BH054

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WORKWEAR

FLEXI TIME Tibby Singh Chodha slips into some of the latest workwear lines from Snickers.

Another product that walks the walk is the Solid Gear Revolution Dawn Safety footwear. Not only are they much

Tirbhavan “Tibby” Singh Chodha – www.TibbySingh.com

I’m not usually one to wear work shorts, mainly because they don’t have as many pockets as trousers, but I would make an exception for the FlexiWork Shorts from Snickers Workwear. Although they are half the trousers they still have the same number of pockets, including the holster type, which I’m a big fan of. Just like their trousers they have easy to access leg pockets, including a knife fastener, and you’re just a quick call away from the mobile phone compartment. I’m renowned for filling my pockets up with all kinds of tools, so I always need to remember to wear a belt to stop me from dropping my trousers with the weight. However, these shorts have an integrated yet detachable hardwearing belt to prevent any mishaps. It is easy to open and close via its durable polyamide buckle in emergency situations. Having worn them for the whole day, I can say they’re a breath of fresh air in all the right places thanks to their high-tech body-mapped design.

If you’re looking to keep your cool then Snickers Workwear’s AllroundWork, 37.5 Fleece Jacket, features 37.5 Technology, meaning it helps keep the body at the ideal core temperature of 37.5°C. When you’re hot the active particles embedded in the material remove sweat in the vapour stage before liquid sweat forms, cooling you down. When you’re cold, those same active particles trap your energy to help warm you up. There are two zipped pockets – which, looking at the size of them, are equivalent to four regular pockets. In addition to these there’s a sleeve pocket, ideal for your phone, or any other smaller items. It has reflective details on the sleeves for safety, which is a nice touch. It’s safe to say that this Snickers Workwear AllroundWork, 37.5 Fleece Jacket is ideal to work in, although it’s that nice you wouldn’t want to get it dirty. lighter than you’d expect, I can’t emphasise enough how comfortable they are. Instead of a steel or fibreglass toecap, a Nano toe cap has been used. This is still as strong as steel, as well as 40 per cent stronger than fibreglass, but lighter than any other material used in safety shoes, whilst equally being 100 per cent metal free. Everything’s been thoroughly thought through inside and out, as it has PU-foam Sock Technology and first class comfort. Solid Gear hasn’t slipped up with anything because they are class SRC, which ensures the highest level of anti-slip. Getting up at the crack of dawn and slipping into the Solid Gear Revolution

Dawn Safety Footwear certainly adds a spring to my morning step! For further information on Snickers Workwear visit www.rdr.link/BH055

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builders’ vehicles 씱

The Price is right In part two of our feature on selling your vehicle, Dan Powell of Honest John Vans explains how you can get the best deal.

hether you are upgrading to a van that’s larger and more practical, or downsizing to something that’s less polluting and cheaper to run, sooner or later the time will come when you have to sell your van. But where do you start? And how do you get the best price?

Meeting potential buyers Always ask a potential buyer for their name and contact number. Never agree to meet anywhere other than your home or business address (which should also match the address on the vehicle’s logbook). Let the buyer look over the van for as long as they want, but keep possession of the keys and never leave them alone with the van. Always take a note of the buyer’s vehicle details, including the registration number. It’s also a good idea to have a friend or family member present for support, even if they don’t know anything about vans.

The test drive As the vehicle owner, it’s your legal responsibility to check that the potential buyer is insured to drive your van. Before the test drive, ask to see the buyer’s driving licence and insurance certificate. Sometimes your own policy will allow another driver to use your vehicle with your permission, but always check before letting anyone loose in your van. Prepare a short test drive route that gives the buyer a good idea of the van’s handling characteristics at urban and (if possible) dual carriageway speeds. Perform the driver swap at a public place (that preferably has CCTV) like a fuel

forecourt or supermarket car park. Always keep hold of the keys until you are in the passenger seat with the belt on.

£100 at this point, if the buyer is not paying in full there and then.

Dealing with road tax (VED) Haggling Used van buyers will usually attempt some form of negotiation on the price. Don’t be offended if someone tries to haggle, but never lose sight of the fact that you are under no obligation to sell for anything below your asking price. When you do come to an agreement, write the agreed price on the receipt and insist that you both sign it. It’s normal to take a non-refundable deposit of around

Remember, you can’t sell a van with road tax. This means you have to cancel it. You can do this online or over the phone by calling the DVLA on 0300 123 4321. The DVLA will send a refund cheque for any full months left on the van’s tax or cancel the Direct Debit if you pay monthly. The new owner will then need to tax the vehicle in their own name online, over the phone or at a Post Office branch that deals with road tax.

For more van selling tiips and advice, visit www.rdr.link/BH056 I

PROFESSIONAL BUILDER SEPTEMBER 2019 97

builders’ vehicles With parking and reversing accounting for almost one in 10 van accidents, Peugeot is on a mission to end this with surround rear vision technology. Professional Builder reports back from the manufacturer’s Reverse Challenge, where representatives from three trades battled it out on a reverse obstacle course.

IN REVE SE W

ith nearly one in 10 van accidents occurring when reversing or parking, Peugeot recently invited six of the UK’s tradesmen to go head-to-head in a challenge to test new safety-boosting technology on the new Peugeot Partner van. Plumbers, electricians and carpenters used the van’s Surround Rear Vision to navigate a specially designed obstacle course made up of building site materials in reverse. Although drivers were timed as they navigated the course, the emphasis was on precision and not speed, as every mistake cost drivers an extra 20 seconds in penalties.

Dodging bricks, pallets and woodpiles, and executing difficult parking manoeuvres, the electricians came out on top, after safely navigating the course in the quickest time of four minutes and 49 seconds after penalty deductions.

Safety first The Surround Rear Vision technology has been developed to increase all round visibility to reduce parking and reversing accidents. Using cameras to monitor the van’s surroundings, with a video feed displayed to the driver, the technology gives drivers a wider field of vision compared to standard side-mirrors. Research from the Department for Transport shows reversing and parking remains an on-going issue for van drivers, with 1,152 parking and reversing accidents reported in 2017. These accounted for nearly 10 per cent of all light goods vehicle accidents for the year. The time spent away from work is compounded by costly repairs. The

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Association for British Insurers previously estimated average vehicle repair costs in the UK have risen by more than a third since 2013, with the average repair bill following an accident at £2,137. David Peel, Managing Director of Peugeot UK, said: “Today was about having a little fun with our all-new Partner van and its technology, but also highlighting a crucial safety innovation. “More than three vans a day are involved in a parking or reversing accident, costing businesses time and money. Our Surround Rear Vision technology will undoubtedly reduce that figure as drivers have a far better view of their surroundings.” The Surround Rear Vision system features two cameras, one located at the base of the passenger side door mirror and the other at the top of the rear panel doors. Footage is relayed to a digital screen that replaces the conventional rear view mirror, giving drivers the best possible exterior visibility from inside the vehicle. AJ Cookson, from the winning

vans to look as good as the job we’re there to do. “The Surround Rear Vision system takes a lot of the stress away when reversing, especially in our blind spots. With panel vans, we have no rear view mirror to use, so technology like Surround Rear Vision is a huge benefit.” The new Partner van comes with four Unfortunately for the plumbers, the trim options: S, Grip, Professional and elctricians had it in the bag… Asphalt. Surround Rear Vision comes as standard on Asphalt trim and is an 1) Electricians 4:49 optional feature across the rest of the 2) Carpenters 5:04 To see the line-up. Standard equipment also 3) Plumbers 6:16 participants in includes Peugeot’s i-Cockpit, an action, go to overhead storage shelf in the cab, www.rdr.link/ DAB radio, automatic headlights and team of electricians BH057 Peugeot Connect SOS. Standard and (boo!), said: “A reversing Long body options are available with or parking prang can easily payloads ranging from 667kg to 1,050kg, cause damage to our vehicles and disruption to our businesses. This not only depending on model. means we’re unable to use the van for work while it is off road for repairs, but For further information on the Peugeot also hits our insurance premiums. Scruffy Reverse Challenge online visit looking vehicles also project a poor www.rdr.link/BH0058 image to our customers – we want our

THE RESULTS!

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‘Hy’ and Mighty Ford has revealed its vision for the future of commercial vehicles and it is an electric avenue. Professional Builder’s Lee Jones reports from the manufacturer’s ‘Go Further’ event in Amsterdam on the forthcoming additions to the Transit range.

he automotive sector is now experiencing some of the most significant challenges in its history, and commercial vehicles are far from exempt. Ever since Henry Ford opened the road for the common man with the launch of the Model T, the mechanisms behind vehicle power have seen little fundamental change, and, given that we have never been more mobile, it is technology that has served us well. The problem, of course, is how to balance our drive to move forward with the need to address

issues of air pollution and global warming, and the way to do it is with alternative powertrains, and the smarter, more efficient use of our transport. Of course, for a builder, the van is just another tool, and its size needs to be in synergy with the demands of his business, but those considerations now increasingly extend to what’s under the bonnet. For city drivers the potential additional costs of congestion charging and low emissions zones make clean diesel, hybrid or even electric solutions either an imperative or highly

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advantageous to a company’s bottom line, whilst productivity in our increasingly crowded little island is critical. What an industry as diverse as the construction industry needs from vehicle manufacturers like Ford is a mix of solutions, and in terms of propulsion choices that’s just what is presented to its customers. The Eco Boost petrol engines available on the Transit Courier, Connect and Fiesta van are tailored for lighter urban use, and clean Euro VI Diesel will continue to power the bulk of the trades, with the latest two tonne Transit models providing up to a seven per cent increase in fuel efficiency. These established answers will shortly be joined by a first in the segment, with EcoBlue hybrid technology in the Transit and Transit Custom offering significant efficiency improvements. Plug in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV) represent a lower cost entry point to a purely electrified vehicle, with the ability to travel in and out of ULEZ urban areas on zero emissions battery power without the range anxiety often associated with a purely electric unit. Ford will, in fact, be the first volume van manufacturer to offer a hybrid in a one tonne unit, a vehicle that can travel on just electric power for up to 50km, with the 1 litre EcoBoost petrol engine

builders’ vehicles 씱

QUALIFIED VEHICLE MODIFIER (QVM) PARTNERS The Transit already has hundreds of individual variants but builders can also access more specialist models through its expanding network of convertors. The Qualified Vehicle Modifier (QVM) Partners have unique access to vehicle information and Ford collaborates with them to ensure that the end user is delivered the solution they need. The number of QVMs is also set to double by 2020, and helping customer to choose is exactly what they want is a crucial role for the network of Transit Centres. extending that distance to 500km. There’s no compromise on payload either, and, through a series of London-based pilot schemes, featuring up to 20 prototypes at any one time, the vehicle has already found favour with end users. On the final production models drivers will benefit from four selectable modes, which means either electric or conventional power can be selected, for instance, maximising the efficiency of the combination of internal combustion engine and battery. Lithium-ion technology is advancing, its costs are decreasing whilst ranges are extending, and the ultimate aim is an allelectric Transit, which should connect with its customers at some point in 2021, but in the meantime the Transit PHEV will already be on the charge in the mission to provide lower emissions and fuel consumption, but other technologies can also make telling contributions to a reduced cost of ownership. We are living in an increasingly interconnected world and Ford is plugging into it with the introduction of on-board modems on all of its commercial vehicles

from the end of this year, a feature already available on the Transit Connect. If you think that telematics systems are just for fleets then think again, because the functionality of the Ford Pass app will deliver benefits right to a builder’s smartphone. Of course, the beauty of an app is that it can be continually updated and a whole host of new features have been added. Parking locations can be filtered according to the height of the van, and a locator will find the nearest Transit Centre, whilst security concerns have also been addressed. Given that a builder’s van is parked up outside the job for much of the day it makes it vulnerable to the opportunistic thief but Ford Pass is here again your

friend, letting you know if your wheels are receiving unwanted attention and if the alarm has been activated. This existing app will shortly be joined by Ford Pass Pro, specifically designed for the owners of between 1 – 5 vehicles, with their location and health illustrated on a single screen, whilst alerts can be set up for servicing. Nobody knows vans better than Ford, and it is that which makes the company best placed to secure the sector’s sustainable tomorrow. In 2018 alone the Detroit motor giant sold over 380,000 commercial vehicles in Europe, with the Transit ranking as the sixth most popular vehicle of any kind across the continent. What has driven the market for many years is the provision of a dizzying array of options, lengths and heights to suit every conceivable business, and, thanks to the makers of the Transit, it will now extend to the method of propulsion. For more information on Ford’s Commercial vehicle range online, go to www.rdr.link/BH059

Quality UK made tool M12 sturdy feet Aluminium wall plates Support tiles above windows Up to 30% faster than conventional methods

Level tiling everytime

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PROFESSIONAL BUILDER SEPTEMBER 2019 101

THE TRADESHOW BUILT FOR THE TRADE PROFESSIONAL BUILDER

TOOLFAIR 2019

POWER TOOLS

•

HAND TOOLS

•

BUILDING EQUIPMENT

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

NEXT SHOWS Ricoh Arena, Coventry: Thursday 19th & Friday 20th September Sandown Park, Surrey: Thursday 7th & Friday 8th November Featuring:

builders’ vehicles 씱

When it comes to vehicle security, Van Guard is ‘locking’ good. Professional Builder’s Lee Jones talks to the company about its latest launch.

f a company is called Van Guard then you could be forgiven for thinking that vehicle security is integral to the business but, until recently, that wasn’t necessarily the case. With the introduction of a new range of aftermarket van locks, however, this leading name in LCV accessories is now entering the fray in the fight against thieves. Having supplied a whole range of solutions for the commercial vehicle sector from its Exeter production facility for more than forty years, Van Guard is already a proud British manufacturer, as Senior Marketing Executive, John Land explains. “Today, we are probably best known amongst the trades for the likes of internal racking, roof bars, roof and pipe racks, and we have forged a reputation as a market leader. The Van Guard name, however, was actually adopted in the early 90s when we began developing a range of rear window grilles for a local company who were experiencing high levels of break ins. It was more common back then for LCVs to be supplied with glazed areas in the rear doors, which had

DEADLOCK

THE GUARDS MEN become a target for thieves, and that would lead us towards other associated security solutions, like aftermarket bulkheads and secure tool stores.”

Evolving Industry Since then, of course, the van industry has evolved to make those window grilles and bulkheads a less common feature, but the demand for security solutions has

HOOKLOCK

never been greater. Crime of every class is on the increase, and vehicle manufacturers are struggling to keep pace with a generation of thieves who are becoming increasingly sophisticated in the tools available to their nefarious trade. You might think that with considerable budgets behind them the major automotive manufacturers would be several steps ahead, but with vans only renewed on at best a three year cycle they are, in fact, playing catch-up in the deployment of the latest security features. Of course, every LCV is different, depending on the make and model, which is why Van Guard is supplying a range that is specifically designed for each of the door designs of the most popular vehicles. If you think of the analogy of a front door, where some might lock behind you whilst others will require the turning

PROFESSIONAL BUILDER SEPTEMBER 2019 103

builders’ vehicles Handle Shields fulfil the same we’re offering specific and of a key, then the range falls into those SLAMLOCK function, whilst they will also direct replacements for the two broad categories. The Deadlock is of protect the van door itself existing locks on some the latter variety, and favoured by drivers from damage from an who require manual control of locking and models.” The Van Guard intruder.” Replocks have been unlocking. Slamlocks, however, will As a recognised developed for just such a immediately lock behind you without manufacturer in metal, Van purpose and they also have turning the key, an advantage if you Guard is already well versed the advantage of being easy to happen to have a handful of tools or a in producing quality products fit, with no drilling required. length of 8x4 about your person at the in that material, and is in Also particular to a time. Not only that, but the command of the entire single manufacturer, Slamlock can also allow for process at its Exeter the company’s Loom the unlocking of an Guards stop thieves from cutting production facility. “It’s an opportunity for individual door rather than us to provide an additional service to into the vehicle’s wiring loom, the whole van, which means existing customers,” concludes John, “and which can disable the central your load bay will remain locking or even unlock the doors we’re able to utilise the existing secured whilst you’re in the infrastructure we have in place for the straight away. cab, or vice versa. Variations likes of our roof racks when it comes to “Essentially, what we provide on these themes include the installation.” And with this west country is an additional level of defence Hooklock, which as SLAMHANDLE company behind them tradespeople won’t to what would already be there. far as the end user is concerned operates like the Deadlock but Our Slamhandles, for instance, are a more be caught off guard in the fight against tool and van theft. secure replacement handle to the plastic with a different mechanism for even OEM versions, which also automatically greater levels of security. lock on closing the door, as well as “Sadly, there are some vans that have For further information on the range of providing a visual deterrent to the proven to be easier to break in than Van Guard Aftermarket Locks online opportunist thief. Our Door Shields and others,” continues John, “and that’s why visit www.rdr.link/BH060

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104 SEPTEMBER 2019 PROFESSIONAL BUILDER

PROFESSIONAL BUILDER SEPTEMBER 2019 105

builders’ vehicles

t would be fair to say that the pick up market has become rather crowded of late, with almost every manufacturer of commercial vehicles launching a variation on the theme – and, it has to be said, with equally varying degrees of success. Whilst some of the new entrants at the premium end have chosen to court an unashamedly lifestyle and family-orientated audience, builders will always need that combination of workhorse and show pony that is the unique appeal of the double cab in particular. There is, however, one company that could be considered the experts in the field – simply because it’s all they make. Isuzu has actually been building commercial vehicles since 1916, and it is a pedigree which is evident in the D-Max’s vital statistics. If you’re towing plant, for instance, then you have the maximum allowable 3.5 tonne at your disposal, but there are also brains at work as well as

MAX FACTOR Professional Builder’s Lee Jones reviews the latest D-Max from pick up specialist, Isuzu.

brawn. A new trailer sway control system, for example, uses sensors to detect trailer sway, reducing vehicle speed if required. A load liner protected rear will accommodate up to 1,136kg of payload, with cargo bay dimensions on the double cab Yukon of 1,485 x 1,570mm. That same model is also available in an extended cab format, with revised figures of 1,795 x 1,570mm in the rear and additional storage space behind the front seats. On the road, the high driving position which is characteristic of this class of vehicle is complemented by a good level of visibility over the bonnet, whilst all models from Yukon up benefit from a reversing camera. Ride quality is enhanced with a 3piece leaf spring suspension, hill start assist and hill ascent control will help you with those inevitable ups and downs in life and, for such a large vehicle designed to carry heavy loads, it handles well in corners.

Engine Power Our Isuzu Yukon test vehicle is equipped with the same 1.9ltr diesel engine that features across the range, and delivers 164PS and 360Nm of torque. Nobody would choose a pick up on the basis on

106 SEPTEMBER 2019 PROFESSIONAL BUILDER

fuel economy, but that powertrain will deliver a respectable 40.4mpg combined, with the added convenience for the end user of achieving Euro 6 emissions standards without the need for AdBlue. Where the D-Max will leave many of its rivals trailing in its rear view mirror is with its warranty, offering a generous 5 years/125,000 mile package. Inside the cab, the Yukon offers a 7in. touchscreen and Bluetooth connectivity and front & rear USB port. There’s steering wheel mounted buttons for the RDS radio, and cruise control, whilst a leather steering wheel elevates the interior from the purely functional. The double cab pick up has always been a vehicle with a split personality – eminently family friendly when off duty, but utilitarian in the working week. For the owner, of course, it still holds that that second row of seats – combined with a payload in excess of 1 tonne – means you are sitting pretty with the VAT man, in that you can claim back that particular tax from the purchase price.

For further information on the Isuzu Yukon visit www.rdr.link/BH062

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

MAKES SENSOR Dulux Trade supports UK decorators with launch of the Dulux Trade Colour Sensor. Dulux Trade is launching a musthave piece of kit for decorators to allow them to match the colour of multiple surfaces to Dulux Trade paint on the job. The bespoke Dulux Trade Colour Sensor has been adapted for Dulux Trade paints to give far greater accuracy. The cutting-edge device, which is the approximate size of a 50 pence piece and weighs only 17 grams, will instil confidence for professionals to make colour recommendations on the spot and is an essential new gadget to add to a decorators’ tool box. The colour sensor works by scanning for the desired colour – whether it be a favourite item of clothing, a cushion, or a picture of a sunset in a magazine – and showing the closest Dulux Trade paint match via Bluetooth on the Dulux Trade Colour Sensor app that can be downloaded free to a phone or tablet. The app also shows a selection of rooms painted in the colour to give customers higher confidence levels and ensure every customer is satisfied with the resulting job. It launched in July and the recommended retail price is £150. The durable sensor contains an integrated, rechargeable battery which provides more than 3,000 scans per charge. The pocket size sensor is an additional on the job support to complement other Dulux Trade colour tools including the Dulux Trade Colour Palette Fandeck, curated Dulux Trade colour palettes in stores and high precision colour matching. Karen Wilkinson, Dulux Trade Marketing Lead, said: We are delighted to be able to offer our own colour sensor to decorators. It is the culmination of a significant investment to make their working lives more efficient

and help them to confidently select the best colour for their needs. “The colour sensor costs much less than other colour scanners and enables decorators to match Dulux Trade paints with incredible accuracy to give them an edge over competitors. Being able to offer colour matching on site will help decorators to demonstrate professionalism and win more business from existing and new customers.” The introduction of the colour sensor comes as Dulux launches its Dulux Promise, a commitment to professionals that Dulux Trade products will deliver perfect colour, a uniform finish and the stated coverage, or else receive vouchers to cover the cost of replacement products. The Dulux Trade Colour Sensor will be available for purchase in store and online at Dulux Decorator Centres and other participating decorating merchants across the UK.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON THE DULUX TRADE COLOUR SENSOR GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/BH063

PROFESSIONAL BUILDER SEPTEMBER 2019 107

NO. 4

A ir k l a n p at ri c k

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Da a n Con

drew Daniel An unt Key Acco Manager

Mark e Mana ting ger

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THE BOARD

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Safe and secure This month, the technical team at Norbord convene to examine how its SterlingOSB Zero panels should be secured. We all know what an OSB panel is and what can be done with it. But how should the panels be secured for maximum efficiency and security? SterlingOSB Zero should be face fixed using approx. 3mm diameter ring-shank nails or screws, 50mm long at 100mm centres across the supporting joists. The panels must be laid with long edges at 90Â° to supports and short edge joints must be staggered. All short edges must be supported on joists/studs or noggins. The panel edges

must bear approx. 18mm onto joists and nailing must be at least 8mm from those edges. All T&G joints should be glued with a PVA adhesive, and the panels should be fixed using approx. 3mm ring-shank nails or screws, whose length is 2.5 times the thickness of the panel in flooring or 50mm in roofing Whilst not essential, gluing of the panels to joists increases the stiffness and strength of the structure. Additionally, gluing can help reduce any potential squeaks or creaks and CaberFix Joint&Joist is recommended.

Tongue and Groove (T&G) Tongue and Groove has an expansion gap included in the T&G joint. A 10mm expansion gap, or a total of 2mm per metre of boarding, (whichever is the greater), must be left at perimeters and upstands for both square edged and T&G panels.

EXPANSION GAPS Square edged With all square edged panels, a 3mm expansion gap should be allowed between boards and edges. For more information on SterlingOSB Zero online, go to www.rdr.link/BH064

108 SEPTEMBER 2019 PROFESSIONAL BUILDER

No.15

T O P T R UM P S INSIDE INFORMATION In the latest of its building defects Top Trumps series, Safeguard Europe looks at the problems that can arise when inappropriate replastering systems are used on damp walls. Internal wall insulation can provide a warm internal environment for property owners. Unlike cavity wall insulation, it can be installed on solid walled properties. It will also not change the appearance of the exterior of the building, something that is unavoidable with external wall insulation. Internal wall insulation can also provide a thermal benefit to interior walls.

Give me space There are, however, some inherent disadvantages to internal wall insulation. There will be an inevitable loss of internal space due to the installation of the insulation and the new decorating surface. Mineral wool insulation systems can be more than 38mm thick. This is not just a problem because of the reduction in useable space in the room but also because electrics and pipework will have to be put back in place with new fixtures. Window reveals and doorways can also pose a problem and could be a potential location for cold bridging. These problems can be avoided by using hybrid magnesium oxide and aerogel insulation board, such as Stormdry EP-Board. This type of

insulation consists of a 3mm magnesium oxide plasterboard backed with 10mm aerogel blanket. Aerogel is a highly insulating material that, when combined with the thinline magnesium oxide board, provides the same thermal benefit as traditional mineral wool insulation systems that are more than 2.5 times thicker. This means that it can be installed around window reveals or doorways and allows for services to be refitted on their original fixtures.

Insulation without Condensation A more serious problem presented by internal wall insulation is that of interstitial condensation, which is a form of damp that occurs when warm moist air from inside a structure condenses at the point that it meets with a drop in temperature. With internal wall insulation, the interface between the insulation and the original wall is most

at risk to interstitial condensation with the resultant possibility of mould growth or wet rot. This is especially true on solid-walled properties. If the wall is already damp, the risk is greater as damp masonry is particularly heat conductive, resulting in a colder inner surface for more condensation to occur. To minimise the risk of interstitial condensation on an internally-insulated exterior wall, it is recommended to apply a deeply penetrating and breathable weatherproofer, like Stormdry Masonry Protection Cream, to the weather-facing surface. Using a breathable weatherproofer will ensure that the moisture load from rainfall is minimised but residual dampness will be able to evaporate and exit the wall in the form of water vapour, drying the wall out. Computer analysis has also shown that the combination of Stormdry EP-Board and Stormdry Masonry Protection Cream applied to a damp solid wall can reduce heat loss by up to 60 per cent whilst negating the side effects of interstitial condensation.

Y OU R C H A N C E T O WI N ! Safeguard is offering a pack of its new Building Defect cards to the first 50 readers to go online to www.rdr.link/BH065

For further information on Safeguard online, go to www.rdr.link/BH066

PROFESSIONAL BUILDER SEPTEMBER 2019 109

ADE’S TOP WINDOW & DOOR TIPS

ADRIAN’S ‘CALL’!

No. 7

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

ACCREDIT WHERE IT’S DUE

Quickslide’s Ade advises on accreditations.

What are all those badges about?

FENSA

Everything that you install will have a bundle of logos, certificates, brands, marks and numbers plastered all over its packaging and literature, and window and doors are just the same. Some are regulatory, and there by law, others indicate performance and should be helpful, not least in assessing if they are any good for the job.

FENSA is a government authorised Competent Person Scheme for the replacement of windows, doors, roof windows and roof lights in England and Wales against the relevant Building Regulations. Anyone installing windows and doors in existing properties must be registered with FENSA, or alternatively CERTASS and Stroma, in order for them to self-certify installations in compliance with the Building Regulations.

Secured by Design Although not regulatory, Secured by Design is very worthwhile. It is the official ‘ACPO’ – Association of Chief Police Officers – initiative that combines the principles of ‘designing out crime’ with physical security. In order to obtain this accreditation, products are required to undergo comprehensive and rigorous testing to the following standards. More important is PAS 24:2016: Enhanced Security Performance, which is mandatory on new builds to comply with Part Q of the Building Regs. Look also for BS 6375: Weather Performance. Remember, testing is viewed as proof of performance and products from any reputable supplier will bear these.

BFRC British Fenestration Rating Councilrated energy products carry a ‘rainbow’ label similar to those found on fridges and washing machines. The scheme provides a reliable and understandable way of assessing the performance of a window.

CE Marking It is a legal requirement for construction products to have a CE Mark. This is in line with the Construction Products Regulation, and came into force on 1st July 2013. Look for these numbers, which indicate that products are fully compliant with the following harmonised European Standards:

BS EN 14351: Windows & External Doors ● BS EN 1279: Insulated Sealed Glass Units. Your supplier must by law be able to supply CE Marking Declarations to cover the windows, doors or sealed units they supply. ●

CMS Certification Licenses CENSolutions provides a number of ‘CMS’ ‘Third Party Certification’ schemes that conveniently wrap up a number of essential compliance requirements under a CMS Certification Mark, including CE Marking, Weather Performance, Enhanced Security and the annual testing of ‘Insulated Sealed Glass Units’. They include: ● Bronze CMS Certification: All PVC & Aluminium Windows & Doors ● Silver CMS Certification: Casement & Vertical Sliding Windows ● Gold CMS Certification: Casement & Vertical Sliding Windows ● BS EN 1279 Certification: Insulated Sealed Glass Units. As always, remember that any good manufacturer will have all of these marks and more, gained through extensive and on-going processes that take years to achieve.

For further information on Quickslide online, go to www.rdr.link/BH067

110 SEPTEMBER 2019 PROFESSIONAL BUILDER

Digital digest

At Professional Builder we have invested significantly in our digital offering over the past year, which has created some impressive results across our website and social media channels.To discover more about us and keep up to date with the very latest tools, news and reviews please visit our website www.probuildermag.co.uk where you will also find links to our social media channels. Here you can sign up to our weekly email newsletter which delivers all the latest industry news straight to your inbox. Here is a snapshot of what has been popular online with Professional Builder’s audience over the past month…

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

ONLINE HITS The way builders pay VAT is changing from next month and the FMB is warning that your cash flow could be affected. Luckily, many of our readers have already read about the changes on our website.

www.facebook.com/probuilderonline/ FACEBOOK FAVOURITES Upcoming changes to off mains drainage policy had people talking on Facebook. Everyone loves a good giveaway, and our monthly ‘Free -for-All’ is always a huge hit online. We have now made it even easier for you to bag yourself some goodies by collecting all of our competitions onto one handy page. This means you only have to enter your details once to be in the running for everything!

Also popular was a video from our new tool reviewer Phil Edwards, who gave his verdict on the new brushless impact driver from Draper.

@PB_mag TOP TWEETS We got builders’ bellies rumbling across the land recently with our request for tradespeople to share photos of the snacks that keep them going through the day.

It seems many of our readers were eager to find out more about what Milwaukee had to offer at this month’s Toolfair, 19th-20th at Coventry’s Ricoh Arena.

SEE IT SEARCH IT SHARE IT @PB_mag

@probuildermag

www.facebook.com/probuilderonline

Wwww.probuildermag.co.uk I

PROFESSIONAL BUILDER SEPTEMBER 2019 111

GOOD HEALTH PRESCRIPTION ............ Patient Name............................ .......... Date of Birth .............................. Address ....................................

............

............ Date .................. NO. 5 ............

DIABETES

diabetes

IN A REGULAR COLUMN PRACTICING GP ALICE FITZGIBBON TACKLES SOME OF THE EVERYDAY HEALTH ISSUES WHICH MAY BE IMPACTING ON YOUR PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LIVES. THIS MONTH, SHE’S FOCUSSING ON DIABETES.

............

– what the sugar does it mean?

To find out more about diabetes, visit www.rdr.link/BH071

Diabetes is a condition that affects the blood sugar levels in your body, making them too high. Normally, an organ known as the pancreas produces a substance called insulin which helps control the blood sugar level, and bring it back to normal when it rises. There are two main types of diabetes, type 1 and type 2, although several sub-types also exist. In type 1 diabetes, the pancreas stops producing insulin. In type 2 diabetes, the pancreas may produce less insulin, but the cells of the body also stop reacting to it. There is nothing you can do to prevent type 1 diabetes as it is often down to your genes whether you will develop it. The treatment for this is replacing the insulin with daily injections. Type 2 diabetes is far more common than type 1 and, if detected early, it can be controlled and managed, often with a combination of diet, exercise and tablet-form medications. As diabetes can get worse over time, some people with type 2 diabetes may need treatment with injectable insulin too. Having high blood sugar levels in the body over a long period of time causes damage, especially to your eyes, kidneys, blood vessels and heart. People with diabetes may develop sight problems, kidney failure, circulation problems, and they are more likely to have a heart attack. There may be no outward signs that this damage is happening until it is too late to prevent it. If you have diabetes you will get an annual eye test, blood tests and urine test to look for problems you might be unaware of. Controlling the blood sugar levels with medicines can prevent or delay damage happening to the body, which is why good control is so important in this long-term condition. So what increases the risk of developing diabetes? Here are some of the main risk factors:

112 SEPTEMBER 2019 PROFESSIONAL BUILDER

● Age – it is more common the older you get ● Family history – if a parent, sibling or child

has type 2 diabetes you are between two and six times more likely to get it ● Ethnicity – it is more common in people with South Asian descent and AfricanCaribbean or Black African descent ● Having high blood pressure ● Being overweight If we suspect diabetes, often blood tests are used to see if the average blood sugar level is higher than it should be. Sometimes, this shows that someone may be on their way to developing diabetes. It is important to follow this up with the GP or practice nurse as this is the ideal time to make lifestyle changes – such as weight loss and diet changes – that might stop diabetes developing. If you want to calculate your individual risk of developing type 2 diabetes, there is a risk calculator online at www.diabetes.org.uk/preventing-type-2diabetes. This website has lots of information about all types of diabetes and treatments. Some people with type 2 diabetes may not have any specific symptoms and it might be detected on a blood test for something else. Other people can have lots of vague symptoms which might be due to high blood sugar. These include: ● Increased thirst and drinking more ● Passing urine more frequently ● Feeling tired ● Losing weight ● Recurrent infections such as thrush ● Slow healing of cuts and wounds ● Blurred vision If you have any of these symptoms it is important that you see your GP to discuss them. The earlier you know you have type 2 diabetes the sooner you can do something about it.

wise howell

TRADE MEDIA STUART TURNER BROCHURE Providing a solution for every application, the new Stuart Turner brochure aims to inform and support the supply chain, from specifiers to end users. The new brochure is functional and informative, utilising clear and colour coded index tabs for ease of reference. It uses simple icons to indicate which application each product is most suitable for – making it easier than ever for installers to find out what solution best suits their requirements. Download immediately at www.rdr.link/BH081

FIBO BROCHURE Fibo has introduced a new 36-page brochure for its growing range of wall panels. The new brochure includes a comprehensive overview of the full panel collection and the wide choice in styles and finishes. Its arrival is also timely with the new marble and tile-effect ranges, which are included too. Striking photography throughout shows how the panels can be used to transform walls, whether that’s with a contemporary monochrome look or using a combination of different panels to create a truly personal statement. Download immediately at www.rdr.link/BH068

ANDERTON CONCRETE WEBSITE As part of its commitment to improving customer experience and service, manufacturer of precast concrete products, Anderton Concrete has launched its new website to showcase its new brand identity, as well as offering additional features and improved usability. The easy-to-navigate site offers visitors the opportunity to explore the company’s product range with ease, as well as being able to specify and learn about product sizes through its new description and specification section, which is featured on each product page. Visit the website at www.rdr.link/BH069

AICO BRITISH STANDARDS GUIDE With the recent changes to BS 5839-6:2019, Aico has condensed the information into a pocket-sized guide. The Standard covers specific recommendations for fire alarm systems in all domestic premises and covers both new-build and existing properties. The standard contains a large amount of detail on all aspects relating to the design and installation of fire alarm systems, including the type of alarm to install and the areas of the property to protect. To request a copy, go to www.rdr.link/BH070 Use the FREE Readerlink service for the latest product information and prices!

What’s the oddest thing you’ve had delivered to you on site? Or what’s the most blatant mix-up in deliveries that has held up your work? I write this having just received the sixth (sixth!) wrong door lock cylinder for a pair of patio doors that I fitted two months ago. When the doors first arrived on site, the locks were not what I’d specified. I’d asked for thumb-turns on the inside, and the slave door one came with a key. Easy mistake to make (I imagine). So I gave the firm the chance to rectify matters. They sent me a replacement cylinder. With a key. Second replacement arrived. No key, but a different shaped thumbturn from the master door. Third replacement. Correct shaped thumbturn, but in brass not chrome Fourth replacement. Correct thumbturn and material, but didn’t fit the opening. Someone had sawn the end off to try to make it fit. But not enough. Fifth replacement. Same as second. Sixth. Same as first. This is all very annoying. But not a disaster. The doors still close, and can be locked and made secure. Other wrong deliveries can be more serious. Like when I ordered a jumbo bag of plastering sand (dropped off on site on a Saturday morning, when I wasn’t there) and it turned out to be ballast. I had two unhappy plasterers hanging around on Monday morning while I made repeated shuttle trips in the van for (expensive)

plastic sacks of sand. Or when I opened a cardboard box expecting to see wall ties and instead found wall tiles. I’d wondered why it was so heavy! On another occasion I waited in all day for a frame for a walk-on glass panel. What was delivered was a 3-metre length of aluminium alloy angle. I called the supplier and asked where my frame was. “We don’t make frames”, they said – “we just supply the materials”. Duh . . . so why does it say “frame” on the invoice? But all my wrong deliveries pale into insignificance compared with the builders converting Admiralty Arch in London into a hotel. They opened a crate expecting to see some pipework, and instead found what looked like a missile. It was a five-metre long blue cylinder with fins at the back. Cue much panic, and calls to the emergency services. It turned out not to be a weapon, but an underwing pod for a fighter jet – used for radar jamming. The delivery wagon had to be given a police escort to get it safely out of London and back on a plane to its intended destination in Saudi Arabia. As the site manager is alleged to have said, “Someone’s going to get a rocket for this”!

Jeff Howell

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

PROFESSIONAL BUILDER SEPTEMBER 2019 113

Advertisement index Aanco UK Ltd .................................................................. (page 53) Aanco UK Ltd .................................................................. (page 55) Akzo Nobel足 (ICI Paints) ..................................................(page 21) Apex UK Construction Solutions ...................................(page 101) Blakes Building Profiles Ltd ............................................(page 72) BMI UK & Ireland............................................................ (page 50) BMI UK & Ireland ............................................................(page 65) Bond It ............................................................................(page 68) Brian Hyde Ltd ................................................................(page 42) Brian Hyde Ltd ................................................................(page 68) Buckler Boots Ltd .........................................................(page 105) Build Aviator ...................................................................(page 18) Carhartt EMEA B.V .........................................................(page 36) Cromar Building Products Ltd ........................................(page 64) Dart Tool Group .............................................................(page 75) Dickies ............................................................................ (page 34) Drew Brady & Co Ltd ......................................................(page 80) Dulux/Academy ..............................................................(page 41) Easy Innovations ............................................................ (page 96) Eclisse UK........................................................................ (page 17) Elfin Kitchens ................................................................(page 105) Eurocell Building Plastics Ltd .........................................(page 31) Everbuild Building Products Ltd..................................... (page 42) Fensa ..............................................................................(page 99) Festool UK Ltd .................................................................. (page 6) Footsure Western Ltd ....................................................(page 84) Ford Motor Co Ltd ..........................................................(page 10) Garador ..........................................................................(page 89) Grass Concrete Ltd .........................................................(page 72) GX Glass ..........................................................................(page 96) Hambleside Danelaw Ltd ...............................................(page 52) Havwoods Ltd................................................................. (page 37) Imperial Brick .................................................................(page 75) Karndean Design Flooring ..............................................(page 58) Makita (UK) Ltd .............................................................. (page 84) Marley Ltd ......................................................................(page 67) Marley Ltd ......................................................................(page 62) Marmox UK Ltd ..............................................................(page 81) Muck Truck..................................................................... (page 99) Norbord Europe Ltd .......................................................(page 27) Nu足Heat ..........................................................................(page 28) Permaroof (UK) Ltd ........................................................ (page 70)

CLASSIFIEDS

Peugeot Motor Company PLC........................................ (page 15) Plasti足Kote ...................................................................... (page 96) Plumb Partners Group Ltd .............................................(page 13) Pnu足Point Ltd ................................................................(page 104) Polypipe plc ....................................................................(page 45) Premdor ..........................................................................(page 78) Quickslide .........................................................................(page 7) REG Group Ltd ................................................................(page 74) Robert Bosch Ltd ............................................................(page 24) Rocket Door Frames....................................................... (page 83) Rocket Door Frames....................................................... (page 91) Rockwool Ltd ..................................................................(page 57) Royd UK (Acer) ............................................................... (page 38) Royd UK .......................................................................... (page 93) RSS Tilemaster.............................................................. (page 101) Safeguard Europe Ltd/Drybase ......................................(page 26) Safeguard Europe Ltd/Stormdry ....................................(page 40) Safeguard Europe Ltd/Dryrod ........................................(page 93) SDV Roof Racks (Clitheroe) Ltd ...................................(page 104) Sievin Jalkine OY ...........................................................(page 105) Simpson Strong Tie ........................................................ (page 72) Snickers Work Wear .........................................................(page 8) Snickers Work Wear ........................................................(page 33 Snug Solutions Ltd ........................................................(page 104) Spray Foam Solutions..................................................... (page 71) Techtronic Industries UK Ltd ..........................................(page 30) Telebeam Ltd.................................................................. (page 70) Toolfair Exhibition ........................................................(page 102) Toolstream Ltd/Triton ....................................................(page 38) TuffX Processed Glass Ltd ..............................................(page 61) Ubbink UK Ltd .................................................................(page 60) UK Underfloor Heating Ltd ............................................ (page 96) Unilite Ltd .......................................................................(page 81) Vauxhall Motors Ltd ....................................................(pages 4,5) VIP Polymers Ltd ............................................................ (page 85) Wavin ............................................... (inside front cover gatefold) Werner ........................................................................... (page 86) Werner ........................................................................... (page 87) Wetherby Laroc ..............................................................(page 77) Winn & Coales Denso Ltd ..............................................(page 89) Zarges UK Ltd ................................................................. (page 94) Zircon Corporation Ltd ...................................................(page 78)

To advertise here please telephone Sam Shannon-Tinsley on 01923 237799

Ricoh Arena, Coventry: Thursday 19th & Friday 20th Sept 2019 Sandown Park, Surrey: Thursday 7th & Friday 8th Nov 2019 114 SEPTEMBER 2019 PROFESSIONAL BUILDER

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