Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer July-August 19

PROFESSIONAL

HOUSEBUILDER &PROPERTY DEVELOPER

WWW.PHPDONLINE.CO.UK

JULY/AUGUST 2019

INTERIORS Use flooring to help create stunning rooms

SPECIAL REPORT

SMART TECHNOLOGY

MASONRY & TIMBER

Increase natural light inside a home by reducing wall construction depth

The benefits of switching to digital showers

Raise the quality of a new development with timber internal doors

MARKET UPDATE: BUYER CONFIDENCE RETURNS

contents PHPD JULY/AUGUST 2019 VOLUME 13 NUMBER 6

This issue Regulars 3

First Word

4

News

6

HBA Column

6

Ask Tobermore

8

Developments

47 Trade Media 48 General Building 49 Last Word

PROFILE

Special Reports

14 Development | Woodlands Edge PHPD discovers how Gusto Homes has built sustainability into its latest new homes

10 Lighter living Bring more natural light into a new home using a reduced wall construction depth

16 Supplier | Garador Yeovil-based garage door specialist Garador is well-placed to assist in the construction of eye-catching new homes

12 Fast finance How Go Develop’s 100% full funding helped deliver 21 apartments in South Devon

Cover story

The Brecon range from Woodpecker Flooring is moisture resistant and suitable for the most demanding rooms including bathrooms, conservatories and above underfloor heating. For more turn to page 39

MASONRY & TIMBER 19 A ‘sterling’ job Make the most of engineered timber solutions 22 Design of the times Ibstock’s new London studio is placing design at the centre of clay and concrete conversation 24 Pave the way How one development in West Sussex used Tobermore’s permeable paving to meet sustainable drainage requirements 26 Door of opportunity Some tips on what to consider when selecting internal timber doors 28 An energy transformation A reminder of the ways masonry can help achieve better energy efficiency

EXPERT UPDATES 29 Finance How to manage VAT when building new homes 30 Design The complexities and economics of designing tall buildings 31 Market Is cautious optimism is returning to the UK new homes market?

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New developments

SMART TECHNOLOGIES 32 The 'smart' future for showering Is it the right time to switch to digital showers?

34 Take control PHPD runs through some of the most desired items for a bathroom 36 A light touch The growing trend towards lighting functionality and control 37 Round Up

16 |

Garage doors

26 |

Timber internal doors

INTERIORS 39 Take to the floor Woodpecker Flooring provides insight into flooring options 42 The dark side PHPD explores the growing trend for black products 44 Inside job Hörmann’s new range of internal doors 46 Round Up

42 |

Is black the new grey?

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first word Editor Jonathan Cole phpd@hamerville.co.uk Group Advertisement Manager Craig Jowsey 07900 248102 craig@hamerville.co.uk Advertisement Manager Eduart Bajraktari 01923 237799 eduart@hamerville.co.uk Northern Area Sales Ian Duff 07810 353 525 probuilder@sky.com Digital Group Manager Stuart Duff Digital Assistant David Molloy Design Adeel Qadri Group Production Manager Carol Padgett Production Assistant Claire Picton Managing Editor Terry Smith Circulation Manager Kirstie Day Publisher Bryan Shannon Printer Wyndeham Group Published by: Hamerville Media Group Regal House, Regal Way, Watford, Herts, WD24 4YF. Tel: 01923 237799 Email: phpd@hamerville.co.uk Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer is a business magazine for firms and individuals involved in all aspects of the building industry. The publishers and editor do not necessarily agree with the views expressed by contributors, nor do they accept responsibility for any errors of translation in the subject matter in this publication. © 2019

Subscriptions to Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer are available at the following rates: UK: 1 year — £30 post paid Europe and Overseas: 1 year — £50 post paid Airmail: 1 year — £65 post paid To be removed from this magazine’s circulation please call 01923 237799 or email circulation@hamerville.co.uk

From zero to heroes It is amazing how quickly a new phrase finds its way into common usage. Perhaps the clearest example of this from recent years is ‘Brexit’ – although for now (and for a change) let’s steer clear of that particular topic.

Another phrase that seems to be cropping up more widely is ‘net-zero’, although those involved in environmental projects and some construction circles will already be aware of the term. For those who have not come across it yet, ‘net-zero’ is being used to describe a position when a country will cut greenhouse gas emissions to zero.

The UK Government has committed to do this by 2050. Some say this is unachievable, or even reckless, others argue that it is imperative we should reach the target far more quickly. Whatever your point of view, it is a bold undertaking – the UK is the first major nation to propose this target.

However, perhaps it should also be seen as an opportunity; a stimulus to deliver change, challenging us to improve our homes and building techniques.

The housing sector is particularly well placed to pick up the ‘net-zero’ gauntlet.

Firstly, emissions from heating homes are a significant part of our national carbon emissions – so there is plenty of room for improvement. But perhaps more importantly, the construction sector is brimming with technical innovation and solutions – ideas that can drive us towards ‘net-zero’, while placing the sector at the forefront of the global ‘netzero’ economy.

As a very brief example, in the past month, we have visited with two construction businesses – one a machinery manufacturer, the other a producer of bricks. What these companies supply to the sector could not be more different, but what is strikingly similar is the level of innovation within both businesses, along with an enthusiasm to make a difference.

But the changes we need in order to achieve ‘net-zero’ are not the sole responsibility of big business. All must play their part and, in fact, smaller businesses are often better placed to drive change; developing new ideas, moving quickly and implementing innovative sustainable solutions. (We report on one housebuilder’s recent achievements in this area on page 14.)

‘Net zero’ could re-define our built environment for future generations. In striving to achieve the 2050 target, homes could become more thermally efficient, be powered by renewable energy, and feature improved indoor air quality. This in turn could lead to improved neighbourhoods, towns and cities right across the UK.

the construction sector is brimming with technical innovation and solutions

For more information from PHPD visit www.phpdonline.co.uk @phpdonline

Total Average Net Distribution 14,853 1 July 2017 – 30 June 2018

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news In Brief

‘Contributions’ rules to change

■ Nick Sangwin has become national chair of the National Federation of Builders (NFB). He was handed the ceremonial chains of office at the NFB's recent AGM. In his speech Nick said: “The industry is changing, as it always is. This time, there is a very real sense that the balance of power is shifting away from the 1%. One of the most gratifying aspects of that change is that the NFB is there, pushing. Whether it is on prompt payment, contract risk, access to contracts, we are there.”

he government has announced its intention to introduce new rules for the way housing developers help to fund infrastructure.

Housing Minister Kit Malthouse MP has announced that the rules are to be simplified, so that communities know exactly how much developers are paying for infrastructure in their area. Councils will be required to report the deals done

■ The number of new build homes completed in Scotland rose by 15 per cent last year, topping the 20,000 mark for the first time since 2008. The news has been warmly welcomed by industry body Homes for Scotland. The organisation’s Chief Executive Nicola Barclay said: “With previous years’ completions falling well short of our call for a ten per cent year-on-year increase in output, we firmly agree with the Minister’s sentiments that it is great to see this rise in the number of new homes, providing choice across all tenures for the residents of Scotland.”

■ New free guidance has been produced by the BPF Pipes Group providing clear information on responsibly recycled aggregates for sustainable construction projects, including drains and sewers in small to medium-sized development sites. It recommends that recycled aggregates are always sourced from producers who are able to demonstrate that their products comply with both BS EN 13242 and the WRAP/Environment Agency Quality Protocol. The guidance is available at www.bpfpipesgroup.com

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with developers, and set out how the money will be spent.

Minister of State for Housing Kit Malthouse MP said: “The reforms not only ensure developers and councils don’t shirk their responsibilities, allowing residents to hold them to account - but also free up councillors to fund bigger and more complicated projects over the line.”

Developers were charged £6 billion in contributions in 2016/17 (Image: Ceebeestock/Adobestock)

Flaxby Park developer honoured hris Musgrave, Managing Director of Flaxby Park Ltd, has been recognised in the Queen’s birthday honours list for 2019.

The developer behind plans to transform a disused golf course close to Harrogate into a sustainable new community, has received an OBE, ‘for services to Business and the community in the Tees Valley.’

Chris plans to build 2,750 new homes on Flaxby’s disused golf course as well as a retirement village, two primary schools, a GP surgery, sports facilities, a hotel and a new village centre. Almost 50% of the site will consist of green space.

Chris said: “When I was told about the award I immediately thought about my

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late father Joe and my mother Mary. Noone could have had better parents and the OBE is as much for them as for me.”

Chris Musgrave OBE

Legacy Properties backs Armed Forces ornish property developer, Legacy Properties, has committed to support fair employment for veterans by signing The Armed Forces Covenant.

Set up by the Ministry of Defence, The Armed Forces Covenant is a declaration to former servicemen and women, and their families, that they will be treated fairly and not be disadvantaged in their day-to-day lives.

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Nick Long, Managing Director at Legacy Properties said: “We particularly value the strong work ethic of our veterans, their high level of productivity, respect for confidentiality, their community relations skills, and the ability to tackle complex projects with ease while working to high standards.”

Currently, nearly a quarter of full-time staff at Legacy are from military backgrounds.

Members of the Legacy Properties team at the company’s head office based in Quintrell Downs, near Newquay (credit: Legacy Properties)

E-mail your news & views to: phpd@hamerville.co.uk Tel: 01923 237799

Hayfield reaches 100th completion

In Brief

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■ Peveril Homes has appointed a new Sales Manager, Stuart Brookes who brings over 10 years of industry experience to the role. Stuart commented: “Peveril Homes is already known for high quality customer service and I’m keen to ensure we continue to not only meet, but exceed those standards. I look forward to working with both the on and off-site teams and watching the company continue to grow and develop over the coming years.”

olihull-headquartered Hayfield has handed over the keys for the 100th house it has completed on, equating to a revenue figure of £33million.

Since construction work commenced on its first development in October 2017, the company has also scooped four national awards.

The company is nearing completion on its first two developments; Hayfield Chase in Tiddington, Stratford-upon Avon, which comprises 32 open market homes and Tiddington Home Guard Club; and Hayfield Views in Great Bourton, Oxfordshire, comprising 28 open market homes, 15 homes delivered to social housing association BPHA and The Bourtons Community Hall.

It is also making preparations for the start-on-site at Hayfield Green in Stanton Harcourt, Oxfordshire, which will bring

Andy Morris, Lisa Meredith and Kelly Sharman celebrate Hayfield's 100th completion

new life to a former disused RAF WWII airfield that is steeped in rich history.

Mark Booth, Managing Director of Hayfield said: “Reaching our 100th completion is a major milestone for Hayfield. We have got to this point quicker than we originally anticipated because several our schemes have been selling ahead of the build programme. Over the next 12 months we anticipate delivering around 200 luxury homes.”

Construction family businesses employ 1.5 million people n the construction sector 932,000 family-owned businesses employ 1.5 million people, according to a new report by the Institute for Family Business Research Foundation, which has revealed the contribution family firms make to the UK economy.

Institute for Family Business (IFB) Director General Elizabeth Bagger said: “Family

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businesses are at the heart of communities across the country. And this new report shows they are a vital force in our economy too – and how their continued growth will benefit the UK as a whole. Construction family businesses create a substantial proportion of employment, and we are proud to champion and delighted to celebrate this incredible contribution.”

Springfield Properties debuts ‘plastic’ road pringfield Properties has taken a major step towards making its developments more sustainable by using waste plastic to build a road at its site in Elgin.

The initiative has seen Springfield introduce a more environmentally friendly asphalt product on a section of road at the company’s Linkwood Steadings development in Elgin.

The new road surfacing material contains waste plastic and reduces the amount of bitumen needed in the asphalt mix. For every tonne of bitumen replaced, the road surfacing carbon footprint is reduced by a tonne of carbon dioxide.

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From left to right - Sarah Lakin, Contract Manager at MacRebur, Dale Ashelford, Springfield Press and Events Co-ordinator, and Dave Main, Springfield North Managing Director

Springfield Properties’ North Managing Director, Dave Main, said: “The road in Elgin accounts for 20 tonnes of recycled plastic, the equivalent to 17,042 plastic bags or 6,000 plastic bottles, which would otherwise have been consigned to landfill or incineration.”

■ Persimmon Homes is putting the mental health of its staff at the top of its agenda by training 60 employees to become dedicated mental health first aiders. The company will train two employees from each of its 31 regional businesses, plus the company head office, to become fully qualified mental health first aiders. Paul Curry, Persimmon’s national training manager said: “There are many ways you can help look after your mental health.

From keeping active to eating well or simply starting a conversation – we are determined to demonstrate to our team that there is always help available.”

■ BSI has updated BS 5975:2019 - Code of practice for temporary works procedures and the permissible stress design of falsework, to give recommendations for temporary structures on building sites. The standard includes practical guidelines for design, specifications, construction and the use and dismantling of falsework. Ant Burd, Head of Built Environment at BSI, said: “The standard gives clear instructions and guidance to help companies be properly prepared for site investigations and compliant with current regulation.”

■ Matthew Brazier has been appointed to the role of Regional Sales & Marketing Director (Southern region) at Spitfire Bespoke Homes. Bringing over 15 years’ experience in the residential property sector in both London and the Home Counties, and having previously worked for Millgate and Berkeley Homes, Matthew commented: “Spitfire has a truly impressive product, a unique approach to design, fantastic customer service and an enviable reputation in the region. This is an exciting time for the company and I am looking forward contributing to the further growth of this fantastic brand within the South East.”

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HBA COLUMN

Ask

Zero carbon Rico Wojtulewicz, Head of Housing and Planning Policy at the House Builders Association, explores how changes to the planning system could help reduce carbon emissions.

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ero carbon buildings cannot simply be structures using less energy, but must appreciate the wider impact of the construction process in the short and long term.

A rush to zero carbon building through increased air tightness has already seen unintended consequences, with a number of developments experiencing decreased air quality and increases in overheating.

On paper, these projects are held as shining examples of the future, but many of them are not only a health hazard but a carbon factory.

Yet the solutions to these issues are more technology coming from abroad with an ever increasing carbon footprint.

And it is this carbon footprint that we should be more aware of.

Where are materials sourced and assembled? Who puts them together? How long will they last? Can they be upgraded easily? Are they investing and stimulating innovation?

Nothing shows this better than modular and offsite housing, which has rightly experienced a groundswell of support. Many of these developments use steel and timber from abroad, bespoke components that only the manufacturer can maintain, and experience a reported 30% to 50% shorter lifespan than traditional homes.

Simplified planning However, building the right homes is only part of the problem and developers are asked to tinker around the edges of climate change solutions, without any assistance through a simplified planning system by installing solar panels on houses, air source heating in gardens or mechanical ventilation with heat recovery units in attics.

Yet again, it is the planning process which stands in the way of real progress, with Government rules stopping councils from easily encouraging innovation such as onshore wind, the most efficient and locally impactful source of energy creation.

It could trial meaningful change through the self build register by stimulating largely non-serviced sites, instead of serviced sites only, a proposal that has been on their desk well before the self build register was mandated.

If the Government really wants to tackle climate change, it needs to rethink what zero carbon means and look at ways to increase innovation. Reforming planning is an ideal first step but it must also think more deeply about whether it can unleash opportunities elsewhere.

WANT TO KNOW MORE? For more information visit www.builders.org.uk

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Q&A

Paving and walling experts Tobermore have teamed up with PHPD to answer your questions. Here, Craig McBride, Technical and Product Training Manager, provides advice on permeable paving.

Q. We are including permeable paving on our next residential development and are keen to keep all our design options open.

What variations are available in this type of paving?

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obermore’s permeable paving offering, Hydropave is available across nine ranges, including block paving and paving flags. With availability from traditional Tegula to stunning, granite styled Mayfair, there is a Hydropave solution to meet every housebuilder’s needs.

In meeting with the growing demand for more innovation in the design of permeable paving, the company has also designed a range of laying patterns moving away from the traditional rectangular paving laid in a herringbone pattern.

Furthermore, housing developers using Tobermore products can avail of a free indemnified design service, for permeable paving.

When placing a Hydropave order, Housebuilders will also receive a tailor made customer service package, ServiceSure. This customer focused service follows a project from initial enquiry to delivery and beyond, updating customers at every stage ensuring an efficient, and consistent streamlined experience.

Hydropave is manufactured on a single site, with higher stock levels than the industry average, and is ready to be delivered to housebuilders in full and on time, without a long lead time.

DEVELOPMENTS Legal & General secures four sites ■ Legal & General has announced that it has secured its first four affordable schemes, comprising 278 new homes in Croydon, Cornwall, Dunstable and Shrivenham. With an ambition to deliver 3,000 affordable homes annually within the next four years, Legal & General has also secured a further pipeline of over 40 sites across the UK, providing 1,500 affordable homes in the next 24 months.

Ben Denton, Managing Director, Legal & General Affordable Homes, said: “There is an urgent need to accelerate the delivery of new affordable homes.

We have made a great start in executing our development programme, alongside building our customer service platforms.

Today marks the real start of our journey as we deliver our first affordable homes, working alongside high quality local providers to tackle the growing crisis.”

Across the four sites, Legal & General will deliver social and affordable rental homes, grant-supported shared ownership homes and Section 106 schemes.

The first of these homes to be completed are in Leon House in Croydon. This scheme comprises 50 shared ownership apartments in a sought-after central London location, 15 minute walk to East Croydon station.

Redrow submits planning application for Alton Estate Redrow has submitted a planning application for the regeneration of the 31-acre Alton Estate in Wandsworth.

The proposed regeneration plans for Alton Green will see the delivery of over 1,100 affordable and private new homes as well as a wide range of community facilities and commercial space.

The announcement follows Redrow being selected by Wandsworth Council as its development partner after launching a competition in 2016.

Mark Parker, Managing Director at

Redrow East London, commented: “Since being appointed as development partner in 2017, we have worked closely with Wandsworth Council and the local community, building on earlier engagement to develop a set of proposals that will breathe new life into Alton Estate.

Our shared vision is to create a sustainable new community that combines new homes with important community infrastructure and opportunities for small businesses through the provision of affordable workspace.”

Second phase of Sheasby Park launched With building work on the second phase of homes at Sheasby Park near Lichfield progressing well, Bellway has announced that the first plots are now available to reserve.

Bellway is building 171 new two-, three-, four- and five-bedroom homes as part of Phase 2. 216 homes have been constructed in the first phase of the development.

When complete, the wider development is set to comprise 750 new homes along with attractive public open space, a primary school and community facilities. Marie Richards, Sales Director

for Bellway West Midlands, said: “We are really pleased that construction work is progressing well at Sheasby Park, and it is fantastic to be able to launch the second phase of homes to the public.“

Construction completes on second phase of Cheshire retirement village Delivered by the North West-based contractor Seddon, construction work has recently completed on phase two of Inspired Villages, Gifford Lea development.

Inspired Villages, a leading provider of later living homes, is developing an allencompassing retirement village in Cheshire. With a build budget of £50million, the retirement village aims to provide a total of 162 properties for over 65’s in Tattenhall.

Macbryde Homes to start two developments in North Wales Work is starting on two new North Wales housing developments, just miles from one another.

When fully developed Cysgod Y Graig in Dyserth will be comprised of 61 homes ranging from two- to four-bedrooms all at two-storeys high. Six of the properties will be affordable housing. In Rhuddlan at Parc Tirionfa, there will be 48 new homes, five of which will be affordable, also ranging between two- and four-bedrooms.

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Gwyn Jones, Managing Director at Macbryde Homes, commented: “The fact that both sites had already been earmarked for residential development, suggests that an acknowledgement existed of the need for quality, affordable family housing in the area. However, what is planned for and strategized is only really meaningful when that translates through in to action. That has most certainly been the case in these two examples.”

The second phase of development brings a further 56 new homes to the market. Phase one of the scheme created 48 apartments in 2016, with a third stage expected to commence in Q3 2019.

Ed Wootton, Regional Director at Seddon, said: “Following an extremely successful initial phase, we’re thrilled to have delivered another 56 new homes for the growing over-65 population in Cheshire.”

Sign up to the PHPD newsletter for a weekly round-up of ‘Developments’. Use www.rdr.link/EH E-mail your news & developments to: phpd@hamerville.co.uk Tel: 01923 237799

Work underway on Walton Homes’ new Derbyshire development Work is well underway at Walton Homes’ latest development in the Derbyshire countryside, with 26 new homes set to be launched this summer.

The developer acquired the two-acre plot of land in the village of Linton Heath, near Swadlincote, in 2018, and began work on the collection of properties at the beginning of this year.

Amy Summerton, Director for the familyowned house-builder, said: “Situated on the outskirts of the National Forest’s Foxley Wood, this collection of three- and fourbedroom homes will be surrounded by 29 hectares of beautiful woodland. These homes will offer luxury living in an idyllic

Work has begun on the latest phase of regeneration in Pennywell where a partnership between the City of Edinburgh Council and Urban Union will see over 750 new homes delivered.

setting on the edge of Linton Village, with convenient access to its local amenities.

Each of the nine house-types will combine spacious, high-specification interiors with carefully-planned exteriors to complement the environment they are located within.”

200-plus new homes in Trafford Investar Property Group has announced its acquisition of a 40,000 sq. ft. site on Talbot Road in Trafford, with intentions to create more than 200 new homes.

The Manchester-based property development and investment firm acquired the site in June 2019, with a formal planning application set for submission in Q4 2019.

Michael Dong, Chief Executive officer of Investar Property Group, said: “Thanks to its convenient location, with excellent transport facilities and local amenities, Trafford is a sought-after living area for both young professionals and families. The University Academy 92, which will open its doors in September 2019, is expected to create an influx in demand for contemporary living spaces. Our development will respond to this need

New phase of homes at Pennywell Living launched

by offering modern, city centre style homes, with easy access into Manchester for work and leisure.”

Investar Property Group is working with MACE Consulting, JMW and LRW Architects on plans for the site.

Set to complete in 2021, Pennywell Phase 3 is part of a wider housing regeneration project in the area being delivered through a partnership with the City of Edinburgh Council and Urban Union which will see the delivery of over 750 new homes of which half will be affordable.

In Phase 3, a total of 315 new homes will be built by Urban Union in partnership with Robertson Partnership Homes; 181 for the City of Edinburgh Council and 134 for private sale. There will be a variety of different house types suited to a wide range of different lifestyles and budgets, from first time buyers to growing families.

James Freel, Managing Director for Robertson Partnership Homes, said: “This new phase at Pennywell Living marks our third partnership with Urban Union and I have no doubt it will be another successful one. We are proud to be building more affordable homes in a key regeneration area and look forward to delivering accommodation of the highest quality.”

Lendlease confirms phase two of Potato Wharf Lendlease has announced that work is set to begin on 191 new apartments in Manchester’s Castlefield area.

Justin Davies, Head of Residential for Lendlease, Europe, said: “Potato Wharf is a fantastic place to live and we are very proud to be part of the community. Given the popularity of the first phase of the development I am confident that our new homes will also be very well received.”

The development has been designed to blend the best of city living with open

green spaces and has been designed with sustainability in mind. Features of the new properties will include private terraces or balconies for all homes, Electric vehicle charging points, car parking, a dedicated cycle space for each home and a communal landscaped courtyard overlooking the Castlefield waterways The first new properties are expected to be available for residents to move into by late 2021.

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Special Report

Lighter living Adrian Pargeter, Director of Technical and Regulatory Affairs at Kingspan Insulation UK, explores how a reduced wall construction depth can help bring more natural light into a new home.

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irst impressions are vital in any property sale and one of the most important considerations for many prospective homeowners is the amount of natural light within the space. Research has shown that homeowners (particularly those within cities) want as much light as is possible in their homes.

There are a variety of ways for property developers to bring more light into a home. These include adjusting the size and position of fenestration, orienting buildings to capture more sunlight and using lighter finishes within rooms. One factor that can be overlooked, however, is the impact that wall construction thicknesses (and consequently window reveal depths) can have.

In June’s edition of PHPD, I discussed new research from Peutz BV assessing how the thickness of insulation within rainscreen constructions could impact internal natural light levels. The modelled analysis showed that by specifying more thermally efficient insulation, it was possible to reduce the overall construction depth and increase the average amount of light within a room. Kingspan Insulation commissioned Peutz BV to expand this research, looking at how the choice of insulation impacts daylighting in buildings with cavity walled constructions.

Daylighting considerations Good daylighting provision is all about finding the right balance. Too much natural light can cause issues such as overheating, glare and hot spots making spaces uncomfortable to live in. Too little can lead to rooms becoming gloomy and has been associated with symptoms of Seasonal The Peutz BV research Affective Disorder (SAD). To find compared construction a suitable balance, many featuring Kingspan Kooltherm products, designers use the average including Kingspan daylight factor (ADF).

Kooltherm K106 Cavity In simple terms, a daylight Board, with mineral fibre insulation. factor is the ratio between the

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light levels inside a building compared with outside. Designers first calculate the average amount of daylight reaching a horizontal ‘working plane’ within a building (this is plotted at the height that work is typically carried out). The ADF is then expressed as the percentage difference between this figure and the amount of light on an external plane, i.e. an ADF of 1% would mean the average internal light level is one hundredth that of the outdoor (unobstructed) light level.

BS 8206-2: 2008 (Lighting for buildings. Code of practice for daylighting) recommends an ADF of at least 2% for a whole property. It also sets minimum ADFs for individual rooms:

These values are used to define “provision of good daylighting” within BREEAM and can contribute towards the award of two credits within the voluntary standard.

However, BRE BR 209 suggests that interiors with ADFs of over 6% are likely to suffer from issues such as overheating.

So, ideally ADFs should range between 2 – 5% for good daylight provision.

Energy performance The obvious way to add more natural light within a space is by increasing the size of fenestration, however, due to the relatively poor thermal performance of glazing, thicker wall insulation will be needed to minimise heat loss and ensure the building is compliant with the Building Regulations and Standards. By specifying more thermally efficient insulation, it is possible to achieve the required level of thermal performance with a reduced wall construction depth. In addition to increasing the useable floor space within a building, this can also allow window The results showed in all cases the Kingspan Kooltherm products allowed the U-value to be met with slimmer external wall and reveal depths, raising internal natural light levels

reveal depths to be reduced, potentially allowing more light to enter a room.

Kingspan Insulation commissioned Peutz BV to assess how the use of more thermally efficient insulation within cavity wall constructions could impact natural light levels.

Daylight research The research compared phenolic insulation board products with thicker, lower performing mineral fibre insulation in cavity wall and rainscreen construction scenarios. The scenarios were designed to achieve the U-values shown below: Four different window layouts were also considered for each scenario and ADFs generated for an internal room with dimensions 5m width x 3.5m depth x 2.8m height.

Results In all window arrangements, the phenolic constructions had a higher ADF than those with mineral fibre, with the percentage improvement ranging from 6.3% - 24.3% (scenario 1) and 13.7% 23.2% (scenario 2). This matched the results of Peutz BV’s previous research into rainscreen systems which showed improvements of 10.6% - 63.2% in the

ADF when using phenolic insulation instead of mineral fibre.

The maximum ADF for the phenolic constructions was 5.385%, comfortably below the level of 6% at which BR 209 suggests overheating may become an issue, and over 85% of the ADFs were within the ideal maximum of 5%.

It makes sense for developers to consider ways to improve energy performance standards without having to compromise on the size or quality of the final living spaces.

Lighter, healthier properties Later this year, consultation is due to begin on the next round of changes to Part L of the Building Regulations (which governs energy performance) in England and Wales. This will undoubtedly lead to a further tightening of compliance standards in the future. As such, it makes sense for developers to consider ways to improve energy performance standards without having to compromise on the size or quality of the final living spaces.

The Peutz BV research suggests that by specifying more thermally efficient insulation, developers can meet U-value targets with slimmer walls and reduced window reveal depths. This can create light, warm and pleasant spaces which are attractive to buyers whilst also being less reliant on artificial heating and lighting.

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Kingspan’s full white paper on this topic can be viewed at www.rdr.link/dg101 Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer july/august

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Special Report

Fast finance T

he Queens Hotel is believed to be one of the oldest hotels in Devon. It has recently been re-imagined by a successful developer into 21 contemporary apartments in the thriving market town location in Newton Abbot.

With planning permission in place, construction began comprising 14 onebedroom, five two-bedroom and two three-bedroom apartments with associated infrastructure and parking. The developer has kept the integrity of the building while maintaining a modern and high finish throughout.

the funder assisted with an entire marketing suite including brand, brochure and website design, CGIs and drone photography.

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100% funding Recognising the potential in the development Go Develop ensured that funding was fast and set up ‘SPV’ for the JV partner to hold the project until it was finished and sold.

Then a profit share contract was created for both parties with the developer receiving the lion’s share.

At the Newton Abbot development, the funder assisted with an entire marketing suite including brand, brochure and website design, CGIs and drone photography, sales progression and exit, hoardings and promotions.

Organising monitoring surveyors, instructing legals, chasing key personnel, taking care of VAT returns and ensuring monthly site visits to support progress are just a few of the additional services a joint venture partnership can deliver.

The property developer commented: “We chose Go Develop because the funding certainty they offer is invaluable in these interesting times. Having been let down during the last crash, we all know another one is coming at some point. Having funding certainty and a partner that has a building not banking background makes it so easy.

Go Develop’s 100% full funding has helped deliver 21 apartments in South Devon.

Drawdowns are always on time, swift and efficient and Go Develop are very easy to do business with.”

92% of partners return to Go Develop – a testament to how easy the funders are to deal with. Go Develop is currently involved in a number of building schemes across England and Wales.

Simple criteria For full funding there needs to be planning permission in place, with a project that’s up to 24 months duration and a GDV between £5-£15 million. It should involve a multi-unit residential new build or conversion. There also needs to be a margin of 25% on GDV pre-finance and the funder prefers to work with those that have over 10-years experience and a solid track record.

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Why not take a look at further case studies on Go Develop by using www.rdr.link/dg102

PROFILE | Development

Woodlands Edge Situated five miles outside Lincoln, Woodlands Edge is an ‘eco’ housing development being built by Gusto Homes.

PHPD discovered more about how the company built sustainability into both the new homes and the wider site.

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estled on a leafy 12-acre site just five miles from Lincoln city centre, Woodlands Edge is not a typical new-build development. With its own private woodland, tennis court, ponds and an allotment for every household, the development has been designed with space, and sustainability, in mind.

Woodlands Edge is being created by Gusto Homes, who’ve been specialising in eco-housing since 1999, and when complete, will boast just 29 homes. On other sites of a similar size you could expect to see far more.

“Twenty years’ experience of building eco-homes has gone into this site, not just the sustainable houses but the community element as well,” said Steff For heating, there is an infra-red panel on the ceiling of each room

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Wright, Gusto Homes CEO, who loves the place so much he lives there himself.

“We’ve really pushed the boundaries and built something absolutely unique in terms of the energy performance of the houses and the lifestyle. This is how housing should be.”

Phased approach The first phase of the development was completed around two years ago. A further 11 homes are currently being built – six four-beds and five two-beds.

All the homes are fully electric and generate the majority of their power from integrated solar panels on the roof.

Steff Wright explained: “The heating system is a simple infra-red heating panel The 12-acre site

mounted on the ceiling of each room and the hot water is heated in a standard hot water cylinder. However, the power for the immersion comes from the solar PV via an ImmerSun power diverter ensuring the majority of the hot water is heated with free electricity.”

The homes also contain air filtration and heat recovery systems, and the heating can be controlled by a mobile phone app.

Steff noted: “The ventilation system is a full house heat recovery system supplying a constant supply of fresh air. And the showers have heat recovery systems on their waste pipes which pre-heats the cold water feed to the showers, reducing the hot water demand by about 50%.”

Solar panels provide power

The first phase of the development was completed around two years ago

There are just 29 homes on the site

Overall the company believe the running costs are typically less than £1 a day.

Building methodology The homes have been built using a variety of systems, partly to highlight a range of different building methodologies. Steff explained: “We have used three different construction methods across the 29 properties, as we were keen to use this site to showcase how a similar building performance can be achieved with different construction methods.

“The first 18 properties were constructed using an insulated concrete formwork method with polystyrene blocks. The two-bed properties are timber frame and the large four-bed properties are a blockwork construction with a 200mm cavity.”

The company incorporated passive house principles, but chose not to stick rigidly to a single approach. Steff explained: “Building low-energy homes for 20 years has enabled us to get great feedback through the design, construction, sales and post-occupation phases. This has taught us that rigidly sticking to Passivhaus doesn’t necessarily result in the most appropriate design.”

Community spirit But the eco-credentials are just a small part of life at Woodlands Edge. Everybody who buys a property also gets a share in the resident-owned management company, giving them input into improving and managing the site.

There are also regular community activities including Bollywood dance classes, tai chi lessons and even an annual gin festival. And for those that really want to muck in and get their hands dirty, there’s a plant store on site containing lawnmowers and rotavators, while regular working parties are organised to carry out things like bulb planting.

Dr Bob Price and his wife Sheelagh moved in around 18 months ago. Bob said: “One of the unexpected joys of moving here is the community life that we have found, which was something I didn’t really think about beforehand. No one is in any way intrusive or invasive but if you need them they are there.”

Having worked in sport all his life, Bob is now using his experience to run the weekly tai chi classes for other residents.

The community at Woodlands Edge is diverse, with a mixture of working age and retired householders. Gusto Homes

Each home has an electric car charging point

We have used three different construction methods across the 29 properties hopes the new detached four-bedroom properties will attract families with children, who will benefit from the safe open space surrounding them.

The company feels that the twobedroom properties are more likely to appeal to those looking to downsize, but who still want the benefit of being surrounded by lots of land. This was the case for Tina and Steve White, who moved in two years ago.

Tina, 57, said: “The thing that first attracted us was the house itself. There is so much light and space, and we loved all the eco credentials.

“We’d come from a 200-year-old cottage, so you couldn’t get much more different, but the moment we walked inside the show home I loved it – the light and the view and the fantastic space. It was just really wonderful.”

Dr Bob Price and his wife Sheelagh love the development's eco credentials (all images: Gusto Homes)

Each household has an allotment

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PROFILE|SUPPLIER

Garador PHPD recently visited Yeovil-based garage door specialist Garador, to discover the company’s heritage and explore why it is well-placed to assist housebuilders in creating eye-catching new homes.

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ith over 70 years of experience manufacturing garage doors in the UK, what Garador doesn’t know about garage doors probably isn’t worth knowing. Today it has a range of over 60 standard garage doors and can supply virtually any configuration a customer can dream up.

The company started out just a few years after the Second World War, when helicopter specialist Westlands purchased a licence from a Canadian firm to manufacture one piece up & over doors.

The company had noticed that in the post-war period housebuilding was booming and ownership of cars becoming more widespread. The first Garador branded garage door was made in 1948.

Many ups and downs followed in the intervening years and the company has undergone numerous changes, developments and expansions, but today it remains a leader in the design and manufacture of modern garage doors.

The company’s highly automated production plant in Yeovil, Somerset, is a

There are over 60 standard doors in the range

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true manufacturing facility, turning coiled steel into a wide range of modern garage doors.

"Over the years we have continually invested and improved every aspect of our manufacturing process," said Marketing Manager, Paul Eddleston. "For instance, we have just invested in a new press machine, to help produce our wide profile steel Ascot and Windsor garage doors more efficiently."

But production is just one side of the story. Recently the company made a £1.4

Garador has been manufacturing garage doors in the UK for over 70 years

Garador recently invested £1.4m at its Yeovil production facility

million investment to further extend its Yeovil factory, to provide more storage space and a series of loading bays as part of a drive to invest in its logistics operations.

Any visitors to the site cannot fail to be impressed by the size of the operation, the highly efficient production processes and the significant stock holding – which, together with its commitment to customer service, enables the company to react quickly to a customer’s requirements.

"Along with manufacturing a range of quality garage doors, we have a dedicated UK-based customer service team and excellent after sales service," said Marketing Manager, Paul Eddleston. “This is especially important when you are dealing with a technical product like a garage door that offers so many choices and variations”.

Designed for life Garador offers a substantial range of garage doors with choices on material, designs, colours and additional options to ensure every customer can find the right solution for any property – modern or traditional.

When selecting a garage door it believes customers should carefully consider not just the design and colour required, but also the type of garage door – as there are a number of variants.

Over and out Up & Over garage doors are regularly selected by customers as they are reliable, functional and attractive.

Garador’s options are available with either canopy or retractable gearing.

Canopy gearing enables the door panel to run vertically on tracks on the side frame, controlled by a spring assembly on the top of the frame. When open, the door panel protrudes out approximately a third forming a canopy.

Retractable gearing means the door panel opens on horizontal tracks which go back into the garage. This type of gear has been designed specifically for use with an electric operator. Both gear types come with an anti-drop safety device.

A wide variety of styles and colours are available

Up & Over doors are available in a choice of four different materials: steel, timber and GRP, and a range of colours and finishes.

Security guard Garador’s Guardian Range doors are Secured by Design (SBD) accredited and meet the standards set by the Association of Chief Police Officers. These doors featured eight door braces rather than two on the rear of the door for extra strength. They also have additional steel plates fitted to the base of the door, to protect bottom locking points. The locking systems have also been upgraded, with a new anti-snap cylinder on the lock itself and a steel plate to protect the lock body.

SBD accreditation is only available on Garador steel up & over garage doors, currently in Salisbury, Horizon and Carlton styles.

Wide and seek For housebuilders looking to maximise the full width of a garage – a vital consideration given the dimensions of some vehicles – a sectional doors should be considered. As the name suggests, sectional garage doors are split into sections which run on vertical and then horizontal tracks back into the garage.

These doors rise vertically with no loss of driveway space in front of the garage, and provide full opening drive through width, giving extra room for wider vehicles.

Sectional garage doors are available in Classic uninsulated and Premium 42mm insulated options. They feature rubber weather seals on all sections of the door, as well as the side and floor seal, to help keep retain heat and keep it warm and dry inside.

On a roll The GaraRoll roller door is made up of foam filled aluminium laths which vertically lift and then roll into a box at the head of the garage door opening. This offers a compact solution for those who want garages which retain the ceiling area or access to the roof.

The GaraRoll is a spring-assisted roller door, which the company says is the only one on the market. The spring helps to reduce the strain placed on the electric motor, which should ensure it has a longer service life. The rust resistant aluminium laths mean this door is worth considering if you are building properties by the coast.

The company’s roller doors are available in a choice of 13 colours and two timber effect foil coatings, and are supplied complete with an electric operator and two handsets as standard.

The door also features an internal wall button and courtesy light so you can see on those dark winter nights.

Side by side Garador side-hinged garage doors come built onto their own steel frame, and open outwards to provide clear and unrestricted space within the garage. These doors provide full drive through height, and a shoot bolt latch at the top and bottom of the door. Steel hinges are securely fitted to the frame, to ensure reliable function.

Weather seals around three sides of the door help to prevent draughts.

These doors are available in steel and timber, with a range of colour finishes and sizes.

Open sesame Typically garage doors are manually operated, but to add extra interest and convenience an automatic opening system can be fitted. The company has a range of secure solutions operated from the unit itself, or via handheld transmitters.

The latest Garador hand transmitters feature bi-directional radio technology, using the same 128 bit encryption that is used by many banks for online banking security.

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Garador has a number of videos online that further explore its ranges. To view them use www.rdr.link/dg103

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MASONRY & TIMBER

A Sterling job Engineered timber is widely used throughout the newbuild construction process. PHPD investigates some of the benefits of the latest innovations from Norbord.

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imber is one of the most familiar building materials, popular with home builders for centuries. Its wellregarded properties are further improved through engineering processes that can reduce weight, enhance strength and deliver the modern, technical solutions demanded by the market. It can also be easily handled, machined and used in a wide variety of applications. Through sustainable sourcing of raw materials engineered timber can also offer environmental benefits. Furthermore, supply chains can be kept short – for example 80% of the timber used in Norbord’s Inverness plant comes from a 70-mile radius from Inverness.

PHPD recently caught up with David Connacher, Marketing Manager at Norbord to learn more about the company’s growing range of engineered timber solutions.

Can you briefly explain how your OSB boards are constructed?

Norbord is the world’s largest manufacturer of OSB and has invested £145m in a new plant in Inverness, Scotland. A new family of products is a development of the most popular OSB brand in the building and

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interior design arena and comprises SterlingOSB Zero OSB3, SterlingOSB Zero Tongue and Groove, SterlingOSB Zero SiteCoat, SterlingOSB Zero Fire Solutions and SterlingOSB Zero StrongFix. It is a precision-engineered OSB3 board for structural use in load-bearing and challenging conditions; as well as being hugely popular in the aesthetics-led interior design industry. BBA approved and designed for humid conditions, it now contains zero added formaldehyde and is unique in the market by being the only ZAF OSB manufactured in the UK. Unlike traditional oriented strand board (OSB) containing ureaformaldehyde (UF) or melamine-ureaformaldehyde (MUF) binders, the new SterlingOSB Zero family from Norbord uses a poly-urethane MDI resin to bind the thousands of strands that make up each board.

The pMDI binder cures at a lower temperature than UF/MUF resins so less heat energy is consumed during manufacture.

Like all Norbord OSB products, SterlingOSB Zero is made from forest thinnings taken from sustainably managed forests. All of Norbord’s production sites in

Here (and above) Norbord’s new factory in Inverness

Europe are able to produce wood-based materials that are certified according to the guidelines of the FSC or PEFC. SterlingOSB Zero SiteCoat is often used for site hoardings – what are its main characteristics and benefits that make it appropriate for this application?

SterlingOSB Zero SiteCoat has all the benefits of SterlingOSB Zero, with the added advantages of a board created to be the perfect solution for site hoarding.

While OSB is a great choice for site hoarding, its natural texture can mean more work where painting or branding is a requirement. SterlingOSB Zero SiteCoat is readily coated and filled on one side with a non-solvent coating – meaning less work when you want to paint or graphic your site hoarding.

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CaberFloor P5 is a well-known chipboard for flooring applications.

Can it also be used to help to reduce noise transfer around a house?

Norbord’s CaberFloor P5 has been upgraded to produce a high performance floor with reduced impact and airborne noise transmission. Called CaberAcoustic, the new product comprises 18mm or 22mm CaberFloor P5 chipboard with a 10mm acoustic felt layer permanently bonded to the underside.

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MASONRY & TIMBER

Offsite construction could lead to more timber solutions in new homes

Designed as a floating floor laid over an existing deck in either new-build or refurbishment applications, CaberAcoustic is installed with the tongue-and-groove joints glued with CaberFix D3 adhesive and all perimeters of the panel sealed with acoustic flanking strips.

When fitted to an existing floor in a conversion or refurbishment application, CaberAcoustic is overlaid onto the existing deck and a Hush Sound Absorber layer fitted between the joists with Hush Resilient Bars screw-fixed to the underside of the joists at 600mm centres. The addition of two layers of 15mm Soundbloc plasterboard to the underside of the resilient bar and all perimeters sealed with an acoustic sealant prior to skimming, ensures that the floor structure complies to UK Building Regulations Approved Document E for separating floor constructions in refurbishment and conversions.

In new-build applications, CaberAcoustic is laid in a similar manner (T&G joints glued and the perimeter sealed) over an 18mm or 22mm chipboard deck, but a Hush-MF system should be applied to the underside of the joists to create a void of at least 150mm from the underside of the joists to the back of the plasterboard lining.

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A double plasterboard layer comprising a 19mm plasterboard plank and 12.5mm Soundbloc completes the system. Both ceiling structures also provide one hour’s fire protection.

Norbord CaberAcoustic boards are 2,400mm long x 600mm wide and are available in 28mm and 32mm thicknesses with standard TG4 edge profiles. They come in packs of 40 (28mm) or 36 (32mm) sheets.

In the UK, climate external conditions can be ever-changing.

How does CaberBoard react to being left exposed to harsh site conditions?

One popular option with housebuilders building in inclement conditions is CaberDek; as it can be laid as soon as the first floor joist go down. CaberDek is a moisture-resistant, P5 particleboard product with a special non-slip protective film that protects the board from dirt, rain and damage during the construction process. The film is simply peeled off to reveal a pristine surface when construction work has been completed.

The BBA-approved product can even be left exposed to the elements for up to 42 days without risk of deterioration.

Another option, CaberShieldPlus is the ideal flooring solution when building in Britain’s unpredictable climate. Based on Norbord’s popular moisture-resistant CaberFloor P5 tongue-and-groove particleboard flooring panel, it is specially designed to withstand exposure to damp conditions.

CaberShieldPlus has protection on both sides, not just the exposed upper surface. The top surface features a permanent non-slip coating that not only prevents damage to the board but also

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ensures a safe working platform. The underside is protected with the smooth coating that not only protects against damage but also makes the board easy to slide into position. For added durability, the coating applied to CaberShieldPlus is not designed to be peeled off after completion but is bonded permanently on both sides of the panel and waterproof.

With CaberShieldPlus, fast-track build programmes won’t be derailed by rain, sleet or snow. BBA-approved for up to 60 days’ continuous exposure to the elements when used with CaberFix D4 adhesive, the board lets builders carry on building even with the roof off.

The 2,400mm x 600mm tongue-andgrooved panels are available in 18mm and 22mm thicknesses and are colourcoded to make it easy to identify the top surface. It is delivered in packs of 80 (18mm) or 66 (22mm).

Do you think more homes will be built from timber in the future?

I think there will be. With the ever-growing capacity of modular and off-site construction, more homes can be built and put together at site when it is convenient for the house builders as opposed to fighting the British weather.

We hope products such as SterlingOSB Zero and CaberDek will be used because of their popularity and heritage within the sector – joiners and jobbing builders have been using these products for years and we hope they continue to do so.

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CaberDek combines particleboard with a tough slip-resistant film

DISCOVER MORE… To explore a number of videos demonstrating how SterlingOSB Zero is installed use www.rdr.link/dg104

Masonry & Timber

PHPD reports from the launch of Ibstock’s new studio in central London – where design is being placed at the centre of the conversation about the company’s wide range of masonry solutions.

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ousbuilders, architects and specifiers across the UK can now utilise a hub of innovation, inspiration and ingenuity while designing and planning upcoming projects with the launch of Ibstock plc’s ‘The I-Studio’.

Located in Clerkenwell, the new studio has been designed to provide the UK’s building community with an interactive space to facilitate the collaboration process.

Professionals can visit the space upon appointment to meet with its leading team of designers and utilise the latest software to visualise how a future project could look, if constructed with Ibstock’s extensive clay brick and concrete building product portfolio.

Product selector Using its product selector, visitors can select from over 218 brick slips and project their drawings onto the wall to experience the exterior and interior aesthetics with each style of brick, as well as the bond pattern and mortar colour. Ibstock’s experienced designers support the interactive session, provide insight into which products would best meet the requirements of each project,

Design of the times whilst also improving the building’s overall sustainability.

Joe Hudson, CEO of Ibstock, said: “Ibstock is at the heart of building, and our new showroom, The I-Studio, is a source of inspiration, innovation and influence for professionals involved in all aspects of the UK construction sector. As the UK’s leading manufacturer of clay bricks and concrete building products, we are committed to supporting the industry in designing and building more efficient constructions that push the boundaries of design and our new showroom is a key facilitator in helping to achieve this.

“We welcome all professionals to visit The I-Studio to meet with our team of designers to gain insight into all Ibstock has to offer the industry and look forward to continuing to develop strong relationships with existing and potential clients, both in London and across the UK.” The company’s entire product offering can be viewed at The I-Studio, including walling solutions from Ibstock Brick and Ibstock Kevington, concrete roofing solutions from Forticrete, and fencing, landscaping and building products from Supreme.

Use the latest technology to explore masonry solutions

New brand identity Ibstock has recently launched a new brand identity, designed to ensure the breadth of the company’s extensive product and service offering is more clearly recognised.

The new logo and corporate strapline – ‘At the heart of building’ – has been introduced following research with customers and Ibstock employees.

The new logo features a hexagonal device at its centre, a shape chosen to symbolise strength, flexibility and efficiency. Surrounding the hexagon is a framework that represents Ibstock’s core values of innovation, people, community and sustainability.

Annette Forster, Group Marketing Director for Ibstock plc, commented: “The new branding and corporate strapline underscore the breadth of our product range and Ibstock’s place at the heart of the industry. The new logo gives the business one look and feel that brings every aspect of our company and service offering together and encapsulates the passion of our people.”

Over the next few months, there will be a gradual transformation taking place across Ibstock as the new branding and corporate strapline are phased in. This will include new websites, marketing and sales collateral and site signage.

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Inside Ibstock’s new London showroom

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Discover the full range of Ibstock’s clay and concrete solutions using www.rdr.lin/dg105

Advertising Feature

Masonry & Timber

Pave the way PHPD discovers how a development in West Sussex used Tobermore’s permeable paving to meet sustainable drainage requirements, whilst ensuring the exterior style of the property was maintained.

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t can be a challenge to create an aesthetic and functional hard landscaping solution for an aspirational housing scheme. Such was the case when developer Junnell Homes Ltd created Salterns Reach, a luxurious housing scheme in Prinsted, West Sussex.

The design of the properties was inspired by the Arts and Crafts era of architecture – originally formulated around 1880-1920 and referencing the importance of traditional craftsmanship.

For the Saltern’s Reach development, when the exterior of the properties were considered, the hard landscaping was seen as hugely important as the developer was seeking products that would blend with the distinct style of the project, whilst offering functional benefits.

Jonathan Bingham, Construction Director at Junnell Homes, explained what his team wanted to achieve at

Salterns Reach Products Used: Hydropave Tegula Duo Heather, Hydropave Tegula 240 Natural Developer: Junnell Homes Landscape Designer: Beth Moore (Tobermore)

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We needed to create an entranceway that complemented the development as a whole and the grand frontage of the homes on site.

Salterns Reach: “We needed to create an entranceway that complemented the development as a whole and the grand frontage of the homes on site”.

Permeable paving Paving was selected as the most appropriate hard landscaping material due to its attractive and hard-wearing qualities. Tobermore provided Junnell Homes with Hydropave Tegula Duo and Hydropave Tegula 240 permeable

paving. These products met the project requirements, blending beautifully with the traditional surroundings of the site.

Importantly, they also served a SuDS function – a legal requirement for new housing schemes in the UK that feature ten or more units.

The properties at Salterns Reach successfully reached completion in late 2016 and range in price from £725,000 to £2.5m. Jonathan commented: “The aesthetics and technical capabilities of the products met our design vision; hardwearing, suited to purpose, easily repairable and offered design flexibility.”

And would he use a similar solution if faced with the same challenge on future developments? Jonathan noted: “We gladly recommend Tobermore paving products to anyone in the construction industry.”

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Tobermore’s product selector can help you select a range of solutions for your next project, including block paving, paving slabs, edging and walling products. Using it you can also request technical information and samples.

Watch a video on the Product Selector at www.rdr.link/dg106

MASONRY & TIMBER

Door of opportunity Mike Morris, Commercial Manager from XL Joinery, offers his tips on what to consider when selecting internal timber doors on a new build.

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ne of the benefits of fitting doors on a new build is the opportunity to take advantage of a blank canvas. Offering an extensive range of design and style options, internal timber doors can help to create a warm and welcoming entrance to any room within a new build property.

Timber doors offer plenty of different styles and aesthetics to choose from, ensuring that builders and housing developers are able to identify the correct door for the project. For example, a walnut door is perfect for adding warmth into a room, whilst oak doors provide a timeless look, resulting in a premium finish.

Performance characteristics When it comes to choosing an internal door for a new build property, it’s crucial

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to not only consider the aesthetics of a door but also its practical benefits too.

Therefore, it’s essential for developers to explore the market and ensure they’re getting good value for money. After all, the better the quality of the door, the better the results.

A high-quality internal timber door will boast both good acoustic and thermal efficiencies thanks to the product’s solid core; two aspects that are key when working on a new build. Of course, it is important to note that these efficiencies may be ineffective if the insulative properties of walls and ceilings are poor, or if there are gaps between the door and the frame. This places increased importance on accurate fitting and placement, to ensure that doors are being used to their full potential.

Ease of fit A high-quality timber door will have close fitting, accurate alignment and evenly sanded components; all qualities that are heavily reliant on the skill and attention paid by the assembler. Whilst high quality timber doors take slightly longer to make, this initial investment in time is compensated by the lifespan and performance of the product.

In an effort to continually develop our product offering, we have responded to the many requests for larger lippings so we have increased the size to 20mm on our Suffolk Original and launched a solid oak version called the Suffolk Statement. This means that when fitting the Suffolk Original into a new build, you can be guaranteed ease and simplicity, reducing the need for additional work and stress on the project.

Low maintenance When selecting an internal door for a new build, it’s important to consider the longevity and maintenance of the product in question, to ensure that the future homeowners get the most out of their investment.

Internal timber doors are extremely capable of withstanding everyday use and, if they do come to be damaged, are easy to repair. A quick sanding and refinishing is usually enough to conceal any damage. Therefore, by opting for a timber product at a slightly higher price

point, purchasers can guarantee a highquality entrance door that will withstand the test of time.

A high-quality internal timber door will boast both good acoustic and thermal efficiencies thanks to the product’s solid core

Staying on top of the trends By incorporating the latest housing trends within a new build, both builders and developers are able to create a property that is desirable to potential homeowners.

One trend that is currently popular amongst both new builds and existing homes is the inclusion of coloured doors.

Adding a touch of personality into a new build, our Colours by XL range allows

builders to fit doors that are already sanded, primed and finished on site, saving both time and labour. Take a look at this range at www.rdr.link/dg138 Whilst this may not seem an obvious choice for a new build, it always benefits housebuilders to make suggestions when dealing with future owners, offering tips and advice and showing that they are ahead of the curve.

Whether it is to add a warm and welcoming feel to a new build or offer enhanced performance features such as sound and heat retention, a timber door is the ideal choice when working on new build properties. Standing the test of time, there is a reason that timber continues to be used on new build properties today and will still be used for years to come.

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Take a look at the XL Joinery catalogue by using www.rdr.link/107

Masonry & Timber

Christopher Stanley, Housing Manager at The Concrete Block Association, investigates some key ways to achieve better energy efficiency.

An energy transformation T he way we use energy in the home has undergone a huge transformation in the last century.

The digital revolution is driving this change and has gifted us tools such as smart meters, with low-carbon energy no longer uncommon in a domestic setting.

A 2016 survey, Connecting with homeowners: making energy efficiency relevant reassures us that public awareness is indeed growing. 90% of those polled had completed a home improvement that included an energy efficiency upgrade.

However, consideration of the impact of the building materials needs to come before excitement over futuristic gadgets.

By all means, let’s incorporate tech, but it’s essential to first understand the importance of the fabric of the building and the way materials are specified. A solid understanding of energy efficiency enables developers and housebuilders to select the most appropriate materials available for a particular build.

Balance is everything A high-performing building envelope is always the first consideration when reducing the energy needed for heating or cooling. Appropriate insulation, glazing and windows, as well as airtight construction and minimisation of thermal bridges are all necessary. Being flexible with the shape and orientation of the building is not always possible, although they also play a role.

However, balance is everything. A home should not be made overly airtight, as this would result in poorer air quality and lack of moisture control; a certain air

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change rate is needed. As the Energy Savings Trust piece concedes, we have to consider natural energy gains from people, appliances and the sun to rule out overheating.

After the building envelope, ventilation needs to be addressed. In the future we will have smart ventilation controls at our disposal, managing our system for high performance controlled ventilation. They will enable us to reduce energy thrown away with extracted air, therefore minimising energy wastage.

The impact of a thermal bridge Although new build housing has improved dramatically in the last quarter of a century thanks to successive changes to Approved Document Part L, there is more room to optimise. Even with better airtightness and insulation, thermal bridging remains a problem.

Thermal bridges significantly add to heat loss, occurring along the lines of intersection between different elements, for example breaks in insulation. An area where an element with a higher thermal conductivity penetrates the insulation can also create a thermal bridge. Up to 30% of a building’s heat loss can be caused by a thermal bridge, and the negative impact is heightened the better the insulation elsewhere in the structure. It’s crucial we pay greater attention to this during the planning stages of a build.

Developers naturally want to find the most economic way to comply with Part L. To help reduce the overall cost of the build, many of our CBA accredited manufacturers supply thermal bridging details.

Thermal bridging Ψ (Psi) values have to be calculated for specific details. Armed with an understanding of this, developers will be able to select the right product.

The details and corresponding independently-calculated Ψ values for masonry construction are available on the CBA website – use www.rdr.link/dg139 U-values: challenging but crucial To ensure the building envelope is highperformance and a house therefore sufficiently energy efficient, it’s crucial to find the appropriate U-value (thermal transmittance) and know how this can be achieved, but the necessary calculation is complex.

Our U-value calculator is simple and free-to-use. It’s aimed specifically at those unfamiliar with how to identify this critical number. It’s highly accurate, and can be used as a starting point even if more detailed calculations are needed.

At the CBA, we’re always researching to find new solutions and tools to benefit the wider construction and housebuilding industry. Our calculator is just one example of our efforts to meet the everincreasing demands on the industry across the UK.

EXPERT Update | FINANCE

VAT and the Golden Brick

©Inkstop/Adobestock

Colin Laidlaw, Kreston Reeves, investigates how to manage VAT when building new homes.

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he construction of a new residential building is zero rated for VAT purposes. Land however can attract VAT at the standard rate in certain circumstances, most commonly under the option to tax rules.

The sale of a new dwelling is zero rated where there is a lease in excess of 21 years or a freehold sale, which means that, for the majority of housebuilders, the VAT incurred on the site and construction can be reclaimed. Although it should be noted that there will always be some VAT incurred which cannot be claimed – white goods, furniture and carpets for example.

This is great for those who build to sell but not so good for those who want to retain their properties for onward letting.

The rental of a dwelling is exempt from VAT and exempt sales mean that the VAT incurred cannot be recovered.

Housing associations are affected greatly by this as they buy and develop land for rental purposes; where VAT is charged on the land the cost can be significant.

Recognising this fact, HMRC introduced legislation which allowed a housing association buying land to issue a certificate to “disapply” an option to tax so that VAT is not charged on the sale of

“ HMRC advise that a partially completed dwelling is one which is at least one brick above foundation level ”

land to it. This has the effect of making the sale of land exempt from VAT. This works for the housing association as it does not incur VAT but not for the seller of the land where he has paid VAT on it.

Exempt supplies mean VAT cannot be recovered; the seller would have recovered the VAT on the land when it was purchased as the expectation would have been that VAT would be charged. By changing the VAT liability of the land from taxable to exempt, the VAT previously claimed has to be repaid to HMRC. The certificate has to be issued before a price is agreed so the seller can choose not to sell the land but cannot choose not to accept a certificate – if he does and has to pay VAT back to HMRC he will be out of pocket. The seller therefore either has to increase the price, take the hit or pull out of the sale, none of which is particularly satisfactory for either party.

The golden brick The sale of bare land is either exempt or subject to VAT at 20% whereas the sale of a new dwelling is zero rated. A new dwelling in this context can include a partially completed dwelling and as long as the site has been developed beyond a certain stage the sale of it can be zero rated, meaning that any VAT incurred on the land (or other services) can be recovered and will not need to be repaid to HMRC. HMRC advise that a partially completed dwelling is one which is at least one brick above foundation level – the “golden brick” as it were.

A typical structure, therefore, is for a landowner to develop the land to golden brick level and then sell it on to the housing association, with the dwellings then completed by the housing association. Depending on how the development is structured the contracts need to be drawn up to reflect the services being provided at the various stages, which may involve novation of contractors, including professionals if necessary.

Some housing associations which buy a lot of land have set up their own company to act as the golden brick developers but care needs to be taken on such structures as other costs may come into play.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

Colin Laidlaw is a VAT Director at accountants and business advisers Kreston Reeves. He can be reached by email: colin.laidlaw@krestonreeves.com.

Visit www.krestonreeves.com

Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer july/august

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EXPERT Update | DESIGN

©Red Pixel/Adobestock

High expectations

Rob Woolston, Director at multi-disciplinary design practice, rg+p, discusses the complexities and economics of designing tall buildings in a post-Grenfell world.

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y 2050, experts* predict that 68% of the world’s population will be living in an urban environment and this means there will be a demand placed on these cities that only tall buildings can fulfil as space becomes a premium. In fact this is something we’re already seeing in the USA for example, as ‘air rights’ in New York City have developed into a huge commodity.

“ We must ensure that the homes, offices and leisure spaces of the future are built with materials that can absorb CO2 and reduce carbon emissions.”

As architects and planning consultants, it is our role to think about how these spaces and structures blend with their surroundings, make positive contributions to the cityscape, stimulate investment and most, importantly, are inherently sustainable.

When planning and designing these structures, our considerations represent a tapestry of the physical context, technical complexities, choice of materials and methods of construction. We have to Linton Fuels, Wandsworth has a concrete construction and is creating a mixed use development with two towers ranging between ten and 14 storeys. (Credit: Assael Architecture)

Bath Lane is another of Winvic’s steel frame schemes, set to bring 384 PRS apartments to Leicester city centre’s waterside (Credit: Winvic)

understand parameters such as dimensions for what actually constitutes ‘tall’, or specifically identified zones, the latter of which can vary from city to city so there is no ‘one size fits all’ approach.

Material considerations Post-Grenfell, material is also an enormous consideration, and we’ve experienced projects where originally specified material e.g. cladding, has been reverted to brick to ensure complete compliance. We must ensure that the homes, offices and leisure spaces of the future are built with materials that can absorb CO2 and reduce carbon emissions, and this is one of the reasons we have joined over 400 other UK practices in signing the ‘Architects Declare’ movement to reimagine how we design buildings to mitigate future climate change.

Further considerations of material relate to a building’s structure, and while the most common preference is still for steel frame or concrete, there’s also a growing use of timber and pre-cast forms that can be assembled like a large jigsaw.

Design thresholds There are also a number of thresholds to adhere to from a design point of view. For instance buildings over 18m high need to include dry risers, firefighting shafts,

30 july/august Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

sprinklers, etc, which is all fine when construction is a new build but in situations where we’re looking at the reuse of an existing tall structure, accommodating these necessities can be more difficult.

Grenfell forced our industry to scrutinise itself and start designing and building high-rise better. These buildings should be exemplary for the high-profile landmarks they can become and not a beacon of tragedy. They should make positive design statements and we’re committed to being part of the community to change this.

Fairfax Street will become Coventry’s tallest building and is a steel frame construction to create 1,192 student accommodation apartments (Credit: Winvic)

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

Rob Woolston is a Director at AJ100 practice, rg+p. Rob has over 20 years’ experience in residential development and oversees a team of architects, masterplanners and landscape architects. For more information, please visit www.rg-p.co.uk * Report ‘2018 Revision of World Urbanisation Prospects’ produced by the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs Population Division.

EXPERT Update | MARKET

Cautious optimism

©Kenishirotie/AdobeStock

George Cardale, Savills UK Head of Residential Development Sales argues that cautious optimism is returning to the UK new home market.

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espite ongoing political uncertainty Savills latest Market in Minutes report reveals a significant increase in buyer confidence in the new homes market during the first quarter of 2019. Realistically priced properties attracted particular interest and as a result the level of viewings and new applicants rose considerably.

At a national level, Savills viewings and new applicants for new build homes grew by 35% and 31% respectively in Q1 2019, compared with the same period in 2018.

This jump in new build buyer interest has been spread across the country, but has not been universal. Areas which have seen a particular up-tick include London and markets in its commuter belt, as well as Glasgow and Edinburgh.

“ regional house price growth continues to defy the ongoing uncertainty ” Buoyancy in buyer interest has returned to some markets as a result of Brexit fatigue, with buyers responding to realistic pricing and sales incentives in a needs-driven market. Indeed, according to the Home Builders Federation survey, new build buyer confidence is at its highest since June 2017, moving from being the second biggest constraint on development in Q4 2018, to the ninth biggest constraint (out of 15) in Q1 2019.

Net reservations on new build sites were also up. The annual balance of opinion jumped from -28% to 18% between February and March 2019.

Housebuilders have remained optimistic that sales rates will rise.

There is widespread recognition that Brexit is unlikely to be resolved soon and needs-based buying decisions can’t be delayed indefinitely. The extended deadline of 31 October appears to have released some pent-up buyer demand, providing the market with greater confidence.

Realistic pricing Although the bounce-back in sentiment is positive, it is not necessarily a signal for rising prices, and the greatest interest and activity has been in locations which have seen realistic price adjustments.

According to Nationwide, annual UK house price growth was just 0.8% in May. Price corrections in London have started to ripple out to the South East, suggesting that this slowing in prices is not a temporary trend.

However, regional house price growth continues to defy the ongoing uncertainty. Prices in the year to March grew by 4.8% in the West Midlands, 4.5% in the East Midlands and 4.4% in Scotland.

Buyer activity The greatest changes in new build buyer activity appear to be the result of two drivers; firstly where price growth remains steady and houses are relatively affordable, for example Scotland; and second, where price corrections have provided opportunities

for buyers, as is the case in London and the South East. Overall the market continues to be price sensitive and in order to maintain or increase transactional activity, pricing needs to be pragmatic.

Whilst transaction volumes have remained relatively flat, with national transactions falling by 0.5% in March, according to HM Land Registry, mortgage approvals are up. According to UK Finance, in April 2019 the number of mortgage approvals rose by 8.6% compared with the same month last year.

In terms of who is buying, UK Finance figures reveal that first time buyer transactions overtook home movers in November 2018 and have continued to grow. This growth has been fuelled by Help to Buy, cheap mortgage rates, price reductions in some markets and other sales incentives.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

George Cardale is Head of Residential Development Sales, Savills.

For more information visit www.savills.com

Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer july/august

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SMART TECHNOLOGY

The smart future for showering Roland Boal, Head of Industrial Design at Mira Showers, looks at the latest showering innovations and explores the benefits of switching to digital showers.

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igital innovations and advanced technology are benefiting every aspect of our daily lives, from the workplace, to shopping, to the home – and with Generation Z, also known as the digital generation, the home buyers of the future, smart homes are becoming more and more desirable.

From smart thermostats to smart plugs, our homes are at the centre of this digital revolution, and the bathroom is no exception; digital showers are the latest innovation in showering, offering stylish, minimalist design with attractive features such as precise temperature control, to within a degree.

It's important that specifiers are equipped with the knowledge of the most advanced showering options available to meet ever-changing consumer demand, while also ensuring installers are working with reliable, easy-to-fit products.

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Smart, stylish and savvy Digital showers are compatible with all types of heated water systems and work in a similar way to mixer showers, as water is taken from both the hot and cold-water supplies and blended together to achieve the desired temperature. Temperature spikes are also eliminated as the water temperature is controlled by a thermostat.

There are digital showers available that benefit from a welcoming warm-up mode, pre-heating the water to the user's ideal temperature and enabling the user to fix the length of the shower. The controller will then flash until the temperature is reached, providing the perfect showering experience.

Customers can choose from a range of stylish digital shower options that have been specially designed to offer a minimalist look without compromising on

performance or functionality, making them the ideal accompaniment to any contemporary bathroom.

Fit and forget In the past, digital showers have been perceived as a complex installation choice; however, with the correct resources and guides, it can be as straightforward as any other shower installation.

All the leading shower brands have the tools and support that you need to be able to recommend – and install – a digital shower and do it with confidence.

With the Mira Mode shower, for example, installation is made easy, with a step-by-step guide on YouTube, or the Information User Guide which is included with the shower.

In the unlikely event that something goes wrong during installation, the Mira Mode app includes lots of useful

troubleshooting features. One example of this is the outlets can be switched using the app, so, should they have mistakenly been connected the wrong way around, there’s no need to start from scratch or fit additional pipework.

Everything that the installer needs comes in one box, including a separate remote control, so they’ll have everything they need from the start.

System choices It’s important to choose the digital shower most compatible to the customer’s needs; a high-pressure option is best suited to main pressure unvented systems and combi boilers, whereas a pumped option is appropriate for low pressure gravity systems.

Many digital showers are available for both gravity-fed, and combi and high-pressure systems, so whether it’s ceiling or rear fed, single or dual outlet, there is a digital shower to suit.

You also need to consider whether to fit a wired or wireless shower; each with their own benefits but involving different installation methods.

digital showers are the latest innovation in showering, offering stylish, minimalist design with attractive features Wireless options mean that the controller connects to the shower valve remotely, allowing the shower to be turned on or off and the temperature adjusted via a remote control, which works up to 10 metres from the shower.

Wired digital showers use a data cable, rather than the valve speaking to the controller wirelessly. For minimum disruptions of the wall tiles, a wireless digital shower, such as the Mira Platinum, may be the best option.

A digital shower is the perfect solution for tech-savvy homeowners looking for a modern aesthetic while also benefiting from a wide range of innovative features.

Consumers are constantly looking for ways to make their life easier, and digital showers do just that.

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Watch a video on the Mira Mode by using www.rdr.link/dg108

SMART TECHNOLOGY

Take control PHPD runs through some of the technologies that homeowners want in their bathrooms, according to a recent survey by Showerstoyou.co.uk.

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hile the bathroom is often seen as a tranquil space, in which to relax and unwind from the stresses of modern life, it may be surprising to discover that many consumers would like to see the bathroom becoming more connected.

A recent survey by bathroom specialist Showerstoyou.co.uk has revealed that many consumers would welcome more technology in a bathroom. The survey showed that 83% of Brits’ desire a self-cleaning toilet, while two-thirds would like mood lighting fitted in their bathtub. 69% of people dream of digital controls for precise temperature, spray and timing in their shower.

Interested in learning more about the relationship between homeowners and the latest smart bathroom technologies available, Showerstoyou.co.uk surveyed 1,424 British proprietors to identify the tech features that most appeal to them.

When it comes to the toilet, following a self-cleaning feature (83%), people wanted a self-deodoriser function (55%) and the ability to generate a heated seat (31%.)

In the shower, after the top response of digital controls, respondents requested mood lighting (55%) and built-in sound at 48%.

After mood lighting in the bathtub (66%), consumers would value a built-in scented mist dispenser (62%) and a builtin heated backrest (41%).

Showerstoyou.co.uk asked homeowners which of these emerging technologies they’d most like to try in the future. Here’s the top 5: Sanitising bathroom accessories

1.

Gadgets that use UV light to disinfect items like damp towels – leaving them fresh, fluffy and clean

2.

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Warming drawers

52%

Think heated towel rack but in drawer form! The perfect place to store towels, robes and slippers.

3.

Smart controls In terms of general bathroom tech, a vast majority of Brits’ surveyed selected temperature control/thermostat smart control as the ‘general’ feature they would like to see in their bathroom – at 62%.

Water conservation technology came second (41%); highlighting homeowners are becoming increasingly environmentally conscious within their homes; a trend which will likely ascend.

Wall-mounted, touch-panel interface was voted the third most-desired general smart bathroom technology (34%.)

So, whilst maintaining its role as a ‘spa-like’ space, it would appear that the bathroom should not be a barrier to the spread of technology throughout a new home, and that many potential customers would welcome more advanced bathrooms.

59%

Wi-Fi scales

48%

An advanced set of scales, which track weight, lean mass, body fat and more – and sync data wirelessly and automatically to a fitness device

4.

Virtual reality showers

45%

This feature enables homeowners to project serene scenes – such as the beach, jungle or somewhere peaceful – within the washroom.

5.

Cooled cabinetry

28%

Essentially refrigerated bathroom cabinets, which allow you to keep medicines cool (should you wish to), as well as store drinks!

WANT TO KNOW MORE? For further guidance on creating bathrooms from Showerstoyou.co.uk use www.rdr.link/dg109

SMART TECHNOLOGY

A light touch Smart solutions are appearing more regularly in all rooms of the home. Gavin Williams, Hamilton Litestat’s Marketing Manager, discusses some of the trends towards lighting functionality and control in the kitchen.

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or a number of months we’ve seen the increasing use of smart lighting and audio control within residential projects, and especially in the kitchen environment. The function of this space has changed, evolving from solely a meal preparation area to a multi-functional space and the hub of the home. The kitchen/diner has become more open plan and is now an area for entertainment and relaxation.

Lighting design has been a greater consideration in the kitchen during recent years rather than being an afterthought, with the increasing use of smart controls to effortlessly convert the space from one function to another.

Lighting schemes For example, when preparing food, a specific lighting scheme ensures that bright LEDs are focused on the work

surfaces for precise tasks such as knifework. Then, with a flick of a switch, or the swipe of a button, the lighting can be transformed for relaxed dining.

With the option to create multiple lighting scenes, popular tasks can have their own settings – such as children doing homework at the breakfast counter, or reading in a comfortable chair.

Personalisation Additionally, with a DMX option, an RGB colour wash works as accent lighting to highlight key features, or can be used throughout the space to make it a more relaxing and welcoming atmosphere for guests. Full personalisation means that the lighting can be adapted to any time of day, occasion or mood.

The focus on customisation and aesthetics makes control panel and

Hamilton Litestat is a British electrical solutions provider that designs, develops and manufactures innovative electrical accessories of the highest quality. The company’s product range includes consumer units, decorative switch plates and sockets, smart lighting control and multi-room audio. A family-owned and run company, Hamilton celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2018. Read our profile on the business by using www.rdr.link/dg110

Full personalisation means that the lighting can be adapted to any time of day, occasion or mood. plate design important. The homeowner is more tech- and style-conscious and we’re experiencing greater movement away from standard fittings and a significant growth in the 24/7 use of app control.

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Discover more about Hamilton-Litestat’s range of smart lighting controls by using www.rdr.link/dg111

rdr.link rdr.link AIntroducing new digital service for our readers With a wide array of online resources supporting the latest solutions – from videos to technical guides, PDFs to Podcasts – it can be a challenge to locate what you need.

To ensure you don’t miss out on these valuable resources, we are introducing rdr.link – a new, rapid service to transport you immediately to the online resources mentioned in our stories. So, on certain pages, you may see things like: “For more new products & solutions use rdr.link/AB101”

Just type rdr.link/AB101 into your browser and be transported to the products section on our website, packed full of new solutions.

Designed to help busy professionals rapidly locate more information – look out for & use rdr.link

Smart Technology I Round Up

AIRFLOW LAUNCHES SMART MODULAR FAN Airflow Developments has launched iCONsmart, an app controlled, Quiet Mark endorsed range of modular fans. The quiet and efficient, IPX5 rated axial fan has been designed to provide users with air quality insights to help identify issues and maintain a healthy indoor environment.

The iCONsmart is linked to the myAirflow app that provides an easy to use interface for contractors and users. It also provides access to live and historic data on the usage and performance of the fan. Through the app users can access a three-month downloadable rolling data log for time on, power usage and humidity. This can help landlords and homeowners to deal with issues such as damp caused by the fan being used incorrectly.

Take a look at a video of the iCONsmart by using www.rdr.link/dg112

POLYPIPE ADDS SMART CONTROL OPTIONS TO UFH RANGE

SYSTEMLINE INTRODUCE WHITE E50 MUSIC SYSTEM Systemline, a specialist audio installation brand, has added a white E50 model to its line-up of audio products. The new white version has been specially designed with bathrooms and kitchens in mind, with a white wipe clean panel which is IP54 splash proof rated when installed to the supplied instructions. The fully fitted Bluetooth music system is supplied complete with speakers suited to the room, such as IP rated bathroom ceiling speakers. The system is also supplied with wall back box and cables, ensuring the installers have everything included to fit into the room.

Paul Hilditch, Systemline Brand Manager, commented: “The introduction of the white E50 broadens its appeal into areas requiring an IP rating such as bathrooms and kitchens, something that the black model lacks. The fact that its wall panel can be uniquely controlled via hand gestures without actually touching it, for volume control, play, pause and skip, is very handy in a bathroom with soapy hands, and much safer than picking up an expensive smart phone above a tiled floor.”

Take a look at a video of the E50 music system by using www.rdr.link/dg113

BUILD CONFIDENCE WITH ‘SMART’ TRAINING FROM ERA

Polypipe’s new Smart controls, allow customers to adjust the temperature of their underfloor heating system using a smartphone, tablet or touchscreen thermostat.

The controls are compatible with Google Assistant, Apple Homekit and Amazon Alexa meaning that they fit in with systems with which customers are already familiar.

The new Smart range offers three different control options, Simple (dial thermostat), Standard (programmable thermostat) and Smart (internet enabled).

The new range has been designed to be slim and stylish and feature proximitybased illuminated soft touch keys.

Features and benefits across the range include frost protection which makes sure the home is always protected from the elements and a holiday function which reduces the set temperature while the householder is away, then returns to the normal programmed settings in time for their return.

There is also an energy saving optimum start which calculates the amount of heat-up time within a system required to ensure the property is warm when the owner wakes and returns home.

Explore Polypipe’s Smart Control range by using www.rdr.link/dg114

Leading home security specialist, ERA, is offering free product training on its smartware range, to demonstrate how the products should be installed and boost confidence when dealing with customers who are interested in smart home security.

The training is specifically designed to help professionals feel confident in front of customers. With an 85% practical component, the training also offers hands on practise for installers.

Tania Tams, Head of Marketing at ERA said, “We have developed our own high quality smartware training programme, which covers all aspects of ERA smartware, from specifying the product for a customer, enabling installers to confidently advise their customers on the right product for them, physically installing the product, setting up the system on their customer’s phone, through to understanding the back up support and more.”

ERA’s smartware training is currently available at the company’s new purpose-built head office, located on the i54 business park just outside of Wolverhampton.

Register and book a place on the training course by using www.rdr.link/dg115 Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer july/august

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Advertising Feature InSinkErator® food waste disposers offer practical and convenient benefits for the home

InSinkErator offers a practical and convenient solution to food waste Added value idden technology One of the most common mistakes when The kitchen is one of the most specifying a food waste disposer is not sociable areas of the home and is increasingly incorporated into the design of a specifying one at all. There is a huge scope for housebuilders to educate property’s living area. Regardless of the consumers on the range of products kitchen style or design, a food waste available and the benefits they offer. disposer can significantly reduce the amount of food waste in the kitchen bin, as well as In addition, it is a differential for a competitive housebuilder who wants to eliminating any unwelcome interruptions make a life as convenient and as hygienic from stale and gone-off food odours. as possible for the new home owner.

An InSinkErator® food waste disposer InSinkErator® food waste allows food waste to be dealt with disposers are an easy addinstantly, hygienically and in a sustainable manner, with the on to any kitchen as they further benefits of saving are designed to space and improving complement all kinds The top-of-the-range InSinkErator® cleanliness in the kitchen. of kitchens, Evolution 250 food waste disposer benefits Food waste is ground into delivering premium from overload protection and an autoreverse action, which makes for trouble minute sized particles, quality at an free operation and an extended lifecycle thanks to the innovative affordable price. With system of stainless steel numerous unsung grinding rings. The food practical, convenient waste is then dispatched and and lifestyle benefits to simply rinsed away safely the consumer, it is down the drain, through the important for the standard plumbing. housebuilder to mention As the inventor and global the added value such leader of food waste products can bring to disposers, InSinkErator® has a the home. For disposing range of models to suit every of food waste safely and type of home and consumer. They hygienically, why not specify a food waste connect to standard plumbing and are disposer rather than a bin? It fits neatly under designed to fit easily under all sinks and the sink, out of sight, saving the specification simply need an electrical connection. and the space of a food waste bin.

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The affordable M Series models are smaller than other InSinkErator® food waste disposers, but still possess the same functionality and versatility as the larger models

By offering a sustainable solution to food waste in the home, the housebuilder is expanding its portfolio of add-ons for the consumer as well as differentiating itself from other housebuilders.

Food waste affects every home Health conscious consumers are preparing more food at home, from scratch, resulting in an increased amount of inedible food waste. Despite our best efforts, a proportion of food waste, such as vegetable peelings, is inevitable.

According to WRAP, seven million tonnes of food and drink are wasted every year in the UK, amounting to approximately 20 per cent of all household waste, resulting in a huge strain on landfill sites. InSinkErator® is an active campaigner in encouraging the disposal of food waste sustainably, and advises composting wherever possible. Where this option is not possible, however, an InSinkErator® food waste disposer is the ideal alternative for diverting food waste from ending up in landfill.

Discover more For more details on InSinkErator please visit insinkerator.co.uk or telephone: 01923 297881

Interiors

David Gardiner, Product Manager at Woodpecker Flooring, chats to PHPD about the various flooring options that housebuilders can use to help deliver stunning interiors to new homes.

Take to the floor

What are the main flooring trends in the UK market?

Parquet flooring is one of the most trending styles of the moment. We’re seeing a surge in popularity for subtle, grey shades and really light hues in the herringbone pattern.

Even more contemporary, chevron designs are gaining traction too.

Lighter shades are also popular in wood plank flooring – particularly, understated styles that feature a mix of beige and grey (a colour we often term ‘greige’). Subtle wood floors are a versatile choice for today’s Scandinavian-inspired, light and modern homes. And wider planks factor in here too – complementing modern shades while really showing off wood’s character for an impressive look.

Yet traditional, unstained wood flooring with a naturally golden oak colour and rustic character still very much has its place – these remain our bestselling floors. And

Q

this appreciation of tradition, character and the history attached to real wood floors shines through in the growing trend for antiqued styles. Many of our latest designs embrace the trend for reclaimed looks: floors that are hand-distressed to look wonderfully worn over time.

According to your recent survey 67% of people find wood flooring an appealing item for a home. Can you expand on some of the reasons why this is the case?

According to our research, a key reason that people find wood flooring appealing is because of its appearance. Words such as ‘nice’, ‘beautiful’, ‘elegant’ and ‘classy’ were frequently used. Wood flooring has roots far back in history, and this makes it a traditional, timeless and reliable choice.

Equally, wood flooring is naturally characterful. Every wood floor is unique

Q

with no two planks the same. It something special in a home.

Coupled with appearance, people expressed that they like wood flooring as it’s easy to clean. Wood floors don’t harbour the dust, dirt or odours that carpet does. And they’re easy to keep in excellent condition with a quick sweep or damp mop.

Sustainability is a key issue for all businesses. Where does the timber used by Woodpecker Flooring come from?

We’re passionate about taking care of our beautiful, natural environments and ensuring they’ll always be around. All of our wood is responsibly sourced from Europe and certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or the Programme for the Endorsement of Forests (PEFC), two of the world’s most respected forest management organisations. We share their goal: to ensure that forests can

Q

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Interiors

meet the needs of today’s generations without compromising those of the future.

By sourcing responsibly, we’re protecting eco-systems and the rights of local communities. We’re conserving rare, old forests and reforesting in a healthy, managed way. And doing all of this, we’re ensuring that all of harvesting and foresting activity takes place sensibly within the law.

Underfloor heating is often considered a ‘luxury’ add-on for a new home. Which types of flooring would you recommend with this heating system?

When it comes to choosing flooring for underfloor heated rooms, wood is a great choice. Unlike tiles or stone, it’s naturally warm to the touch and provides better heat output than more insulating carpet materials.

We always recommend engineered wood floors rather than solid wood. These have increased stability and strength to withstand changes in temperature thanks to their multi-layered construction. And all of our engineered woods have a great thermal transfer, with tog ratings that are well below the recommended maximum of 1.5.

Woodpecker bamboo and laminate floors are compatible with underfloor heating too, and also have some of the lowest tog ratings in our collection. (You can read more about using UFH with wood flooring by using www.rdr.link/dg140)

Chevron designs are increasingly popular

Grey shades and light hues are ‘on trend’

Q

Open plan living is designed as part of many homes, and your own recent survey indicates that 61% of people agree that this form of living suits people’s lifestyles. What are the most appropriate flooring options for this space?

Choosing flooring for an open plan space can often depend on the homeowner’s lifestyle and interior goals. Engineered wood flooring offers great durability and style in this scenario with a multitude of designs to choose from. Popular types for open plan include wide planks as these help to capture a more understated feel than regular sized planks, and parquet flooring for its interesting, consistent pattern.

In busier homes with families, a more practical and resilient type of floor might be preferred. Water-resistant, composite flooring with a durable vinyl wear layer is

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Wood flooring is naturally characterful

a great option. Our Brecon range combines these features with naturally inspired designs and colourways for a stylish look with enduring performance.

Bathrooms are often wetter areas than other rooms in the house. Do you have any tips on the right flooring to select in these spaces?

In bathrooms, it’s important to make a choice that’s decoratively appealing but

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also suitable for the humid conditions.

Providing a slip-resistant surface is equally as essential.

Solid wood is generally inadvisable because it can warp due to the moisture in the bathroom, and the high levels of humidity are also incompatible with engineered wood.

For the look of wood and the ability to withstand a bathroom’s variations in humidity as well as inevitable splashes and spills, a water-resistant composite flooring like our Brecon range is a clever selection.

This type of flooring is highly resilient in bathroom conditions with a tough surface that’s highly slip resistant (R10).

WANT TO KNOW MORE? For a more in-depth look at some of the options featured in the latest brochure from Woodpecker Flooring use www.rdr.link/dg116

INTERIORS

Over the past few months a number of new products from a variety of sectors have been launched in black. PHPD explores the growing trend.

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olour trends can be fickle masters; tricky to spot and often fleeting. But, from time-to-time, an ‘on-trend’ colour quickly dominates a market and becomes a must-have. So it was with grey, with many manufacturers launching products in wide varieties of the colour – anthracite being a favourite – to stay ‘on trend’.

So, what could be the next ‘on-trend’ colour. Well, perhaps it could it be black (although we recognise some say that black is not a colour). Whatever the definition, what is telling, is that in the last few months a number of manufactures have recently launched products in this classic look.

In the kitchen, high-end appliance manufacturer, Fisher & Paykel recently announced that its 60cm/24” built-in oven series is now available in black. Featuring a full glass front in pure black, and a black anodised aluminium dial, handle and trim, the oven has been designed to mix cutting-edge contemporary style with high performance.

Sam Rogers, National Contracts Manager for Fisher & Paykel commented: “We feel that the introduction of black appliances enables greater opportunity for the premium housebuilder and developer market, to offer a wider design choice for their prospective clients, and certainly a point of difference where we are seeing an increasing demand from the market.”

The dark side Also in the kitchen, boiler manufacturer Worcester has turned the tables on the ubiquitous classic white boiler and introduced a black option with the launch of its new Greenstar 8000 Lifestyle range.

Aimed at the more design-conscious market, the company has already reported a strong level of interest in its latest high gloss black boiler.

And, adding a further sense of industrial cool to a contemporary kitchen, the Abode Atlas Professional Single Lever tap is now available in matt black, pictured above with Abode Swich in the same finish to match.

Lighten up Another manufacturer turning a product which is more typically white to black is PVC-U glazing and roofing systems specialist Eurocell. It has recently extended its range of lantern roofs with a new Skypod Black Edition. As the name suggests, the latest version features a premium all-matt black external frame and it is also available

Black wetroom panels from PJH’s Bathrooms to Love collection

Eurocell’s Skypod

42 july/august Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

with a matt black internal finish to add to the architectural appearance.

Back inside the house, in the influential bathroom, housebuilders could opt for a new range of matt black wetroom panels from PJH’s Bathrooms to Love Collection.

Styled to achieve the monochrome look, the new range includes glass with either a matt black profile or fully framed matt black panelled exterior.

Fisher & Paykel’s oven

WANT TO KNOW MORE? For more details on Fisher & Paykel’s ovens use www.rdr.link/dg117 For more details on Worcester’s new Greenstar 8000 Lifestyle boilers use www.rdr.link/dg118 To download Eurocell’s Skypod Trade brochure use www.rdr.link/dg119 To download ‘Bathrooms to Love’ latest brochure use www.rdr.link/dg120 To download Abode’s latest brochure use www.rdr.link/dg121

Interiors

Inside job More familiar to housebuilders for its garage doors, Hörmann has recently introduced a range of internal doors to the UK. PHPD caught up with Mark Lester, Internal Door Manager at the company, to discover more.

W

ith a history dating back over 80 years Hörmann is one of Europe’s leading suppliers of doors. Since the company’s foundation in 1935, it has produced and delivered more than 20 million doors worldwide.

In the UK, Hörmann is best known for its garage doors, which the company supplies from its base in Coalville, Leicestershire. In late 2018 Hörmann entered the internal door market, bringing out a range of internal door solutions that include full door sets. These comprise a matching door leaf and wrap-around frame, with factory fitted hinges, locks and latches.

Mark Lester, Internal Door Manager at Hörmann told us: “The frame incorporates liner, architrave and stops, with a prefitted peripheral seal. The door sets are also fully finished so no decorating is required after installation. In terms of sizing, as you are specifying the door and frame set together, the key dimensions are the structural opening width and height, along with the wall thickness. This will ensure the appropriate frame depth.”

The company has four ranges, including hinged and sliding options, with or without glazing.

44 july/august Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

BaseLine is the most popular and economical range, with the largest collection of finishes. Three different surfaces are on offer, laminate, lacquer and veneer, in contemporary smooth colours to textured timber effects.

Next is DesignLine which offers a more contemporary style, with the opportunity for additional elements, such as recessed grooves or stainless steel embelishments.

This range includes the Concepto style which can feature innovative finishes such as Linen and ultra matt.

The company’s ClassicLine range features traditional panelled styles and consequently is an option for country or period influenced interiors. Finally, the company’s GlassLine option has a frameless leaf design which help to maximise the amount of natural light entering a room, which could be an option for living areas such as kitchens or dining areas.

At the core The company’s doors can be constructed from a combination of timber products, including solid timber, chipboard and

MDF. A range of different cores can be specified for standard door sets, subject to weight, function and cost specifications. Solid chipboard and tubular chipboard plate (a machined version of the solid core which reduces weight without losing structural stability) are the most common, although chipboard spacer and honeycomb cores are also available. Hörmann offers specific door constructions and core materials for fire, acoustic, security and climate rated doors, subject to requirements.

Design trends With interior doors constituting a large surface area in new homes it is important to consider the current trends in the market. Mark Lester explained: “There seems to be a definite move away from formal panelled doors to plain block colours and surfaces at one end of the spectrum and more rustic, ribbed styles at the other. Horizontal grain patterns seem to be gaining popularity over the more

The real wow factor comes from the mix of door sets within a project.

Doors are fully finished, negating any need for decoration

traditional vertical pattern, as they offer a more contemporary look.”

The company offers both flush fitting and rebated doors, more commonly found in mainland Europe. Mark noted: “The rebated door type is the standard across the rest of Europe, and so far they have been well accepted. Although many potential customers still like the more ‘traditional’ flush doors, they soon understand and appreciate the benefits of easier fitting and better acoustic

properties, as well as the lower price offered by the rebated door sets. We are finding that in a number of bespoke projects a mix of flush and rebate doors are being ordered for different parts of the house.”

So how can internal doors be used to add a real ‘wow’ factor to a build? Are there any hidden features in the new ranges? Mark concluded: “Not necessarily ‘hidden features’ as such, but the integral seals contribute to the quality feel of the

closing action, as does the addition of silent or magnetic latches. The real wow factor comes from the mix of door sets within a project, matching GlassLine doors with complimentary timber designs, single and double hinged door sets with surface or pocket sliders, contemporary slate and linen textured finishes with smooth ultra matt or high gloss.”

Hörmann is looking to supply its internal doors through some of its established distributors, where this is possible, but it will also supply direct to developers if appropriate, and subject to the size and type of project.

WANT TO KNOW MORE? To view the company’s Timber Internal Doors brochure use www.rdr.link/dg122

INTERIORS I Round Up

MK ELECTRIC LAUNCHES ‘ESSENTIALS’ RANGE OF WIRING ACCESSORIES Wiring device manufacturer MK Electric is launching a new range, MK Essentials, for lower budget developments and back-of-house areas in premium homes.

Designed to offer reliability, fit and quality, the MK Essentials range has a screwless design and a high gloss finish to deliver a contemporary aesthetic suitable for any build. Including USB outlets, LED dimming, and Euro modules, the MK Essentials range is also expandable, as Grid frontplates from the range are compatible with MK Electric’s Grid Plus range of modules, ensuring a breadth of product to suit a wide range of developments.

For more details use www.rdr.link/dg123

ZIP DELIVERS BOILING WATER ON-TAP CALA Homes has installed Zip HydroTaps as standard in its latest luxury development, providing buyers with filtered boiling water instantly. The Zip HydroTap Celsius Cube in matt black, provides filtered boiling water alongside unfiltered hot and cold.

Eileen Kesson, interior designer at Envision for CALA Homes commented: “Having an instant boiling water tap certainly helps to set this development apart. The Cube design in matt black perfectly complements the kitchens’ state-of-the art interiors, looking modern and sophisticated. We were keen to have a product that not only offered the most advanced functionality, but that complemented the homes’ bespoke architectural approach.”

Explore the Zip HydroTap Celsius by using www.rdr.link/dg124

VASCO UNVEILS ‘VINTAGE’ RADIATOR HIB INTRODUCES EXOS MIRRORED CABINET In response to rising consumer demand for modern minimalism, HiB has unveiled its new mirrored cabinet: Exos. The sleek new unit has been designed to bring a touch of effortless luxury to a bathroom and is edged with simple illumination.

The cabinet’s contemporary look is complemented by thoughtful design features.

The double sided mirrored doors allow the use of the mirror even when the unit is open, and are fitted with heated pads, helping to clear condensation.

To find out more use www.rdr.link/dg125

NEW MONOCHROME RADIATORS FROM AESTUS Aestus, a manufacturer of designer radiators and towel warmers, has introduced a new monochrome heating solution for the modern kitchen and dining room. The new model reflects the trend towards black, white and grey interior colour schemes.

Diapason (pictured here in white) is a modern radiator design for an open plan kitchen and dining space that requires contemporary heating.

Designed with a vertical arrangement and three available widths it has a high heat output and can be used to contrast matt black furniture and metallic accent lighting.

For further information on all Aestus solutions use www.rdr.link/dg127

46 july/august Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

Combining contemporary comfort with old-school-style, Vasco’s Vintage radiator is available in both white and a wide range of natural and metallic shades. For a more ‘authentic’ vintage look, Vasco will add an optional transparent coating; this allows the natural tones of the raw steel and the additional shades produced by welding to take centre stage.

The Vintage radiator has been designed to work equally as well under a window or against a wall. As such it can be supplied as a wall mounted, or with the addition of separate feet, as a floor standing product.

For more information use www.rdr.link/dg126

LOCHANNA KITCHENS NEW BROCHURE: SUMMER 2019

Equipment rental company, A-Plant, has launched a new smartphone application that promises to increase site safety and enhance the rental experience for customers. A-Plant Arena allows customers to digitally accept and log deliveries, with an automatic notification issued to accounts payable and procurement teams alerting them that equipment has been received on site.

Other features include the ability to upload photographs and notes related to the delivery, reducing paperwork and administration tasks for both on-site and office-based personnel.

LochAnna Kitchens is launching a brandnew brochure for summer 2019, showcasing new colours, new doors and a whole new collection. With these additions LochAnna Kitchens is expanding its number of door styles to 179 options for customers. It is the company’s biggest brochure to date totalling 136-pages.

Paul Jenkinson, Founder and Managing Director of LochAnna Kitchens, said: “Following excellent feedback from our 2018 collection, we really wanted to present something new to our customers that fits a clear gap in the affordable kitchens market.

It has always been our vision to be known for our customisable, stylish kitchens that are affordable yet aspirational, and this new brochure reinforces exactly that.”

the benefits of ‘Arena’ | Discover by using www.rdr.link/dg128

Trade media

A-PLANT SMARTPHONE APP

a look at the new brochure | Take by using www.rdr.link/dg129

NORBORD ENGINEERED WOOD PANELS PRODUCT GUIDE

SNICKERS 2019 WORKWEAR CATALOGUE

ROCA NEW BRASSWARE BROCHURE

Norbord's Engineered wood panels product guide is an A5 companion for specifiers, architects and tradespeople considering the use of panels in a new project.

The product guide contains all the information needed on panels in the SterlingOSB Zero, CaberBoard and CaberWood MDF portfolios, including detailed technical product data and installation advice. In addition to this, Norbord's booklet highlights different applications, including roofing, flooring, walling, timber frames and hoarding.

Introduced by Snickers is a new 200-page catalogue that showcases market-leading designs and the latest fabric technology innovations from the workwear brand.

The company’s range includes AllroundWork, RUFFWork, LITEWork and FLEXIWork clothing – trousers, jackets, tool vests, shirts, underwear, accessories and much more. Users will also find an extensive range of EN-certified PPE working clothes.

Other topics covered in the new catalogue include innovative street-smart stretch fabrics for mobile comfort and a Layered Clothing System that ensures you can choose clothes to suit the weather on site – rain or shine, wind or snow. There are also details on the company’s profiling and embroidery services.

The new brochure, which is dedicated to brassware, highlights new products and stand-out ranges from Roca and includes lifestyle photography, as well as detailed product information.

Each brassware collection is presented through high quality images, alongside key features such as technical information and benefits. Styling tips can also be found within the brochure, along with product overview pages that display the breadth of solutions available from the company.

There is also a handy water pressure guide to help achieve the best performance for any chosen brassware. The European Water Labels are also shown throughout the brochure to help specifiers identify water saving products for a new home.

more details use | For www.rdr.link/dg131

up-to-date with Roca’s latest | Stay news by using www.rdr.link/dg132

download the Panel Product | To Brochure use www.rdr.link/dg130

Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer july/august

47

general building I round up GARADOR NEW GRP GARAGE DOORS Garador has introduced a new range of GRP garage doors, bringing the total number of garage doors in the company’s range to over 60. The GRP range is comprised of both up and over and side hinged garage doors, with nine up and over garage doors and four side hinged garage doors available.

All the GRP up and over garage doors are available in a selection of standard sizes, which is ideal for housing developers looking to specify a standardised and cost effective solution for a development. Garador also offers made-to-measure door sizes and double doors on certain models, with door sizes going all the way up to 4269mm wide.

GRP up and over doors are available with both canopy and retractable operating gear, with the latter also suitably designed for electric automation with a GaraMatic electric operator.

Browse the complete GRP garage door collection using www.rdr.link/dg133

A. PROCTOR GROUP FIRESHIELD – BBA CERTIFICATE

FASSA BORTOLO FASSAREND TIMBER FRAME SYSTEM

Membrane solutions specialist, The A. Proctor Group, has announced that its Fireshield vapour permeable membrane has been awarded a British Board of Agrément Certificate.

The BBA Certificate confirms that Fireshield has enhanced performance in relation to reaction to fire classification, will reduce the risk of interstitial condensation, and will have a life equal to that of the building in which it is installed.

Fireshield has an intumescent composition that actively reacts to prevent fire taking hold. The coating extinguishes fire rather than just resisting it, and significantly reduces the formation of droplets and smoke. It complies with BS5250, BS4016 and NHBC requirements for vapour permeable walling underlays.

Fassa Bortolo, a leading Italian manufacturer of renders and integrated building systems has brought its Fassarend timber frame system to the UK market. With a four-stage installation process, the timber frame system can be used across a range of residential projects and has the added benefit of on- or offsite construction. The system uses lightweight carrier boards which are mechanically fixed onto wooden battens and finished with a thin coat render.

There is an extra option to incorporate a mechanical EWI rail system should the project require extra insulation, in the form of mineral wool or Expanded Polystyrene (EPS).

The Fassarend timber frame system has been third party certified by KIWA.

Discover more about Fireshield by using www.rdr.link/dg134

ROOF MAKER ABUTMENT ROOFLIGHT

Discover more about Fassarend by using www.rdr.link/dg136

British rooflight manufacturer, Roof Maker, is extending its range of rooflights with the launch of a new Abutment Rooflight.

Designed to enable natural light to flow into the inner areas of a house, Roof Maker’s new Abutment Rooflight can be installed against walls at a pitch of 5 to 15˚ – eliminating the requirement for a gap between the wall and rooflight.

The company uses a patented cushioning technology which moulds into the crevices of walls that may have small imperfections or rough textures, significantly reducing the risk of water ingress.

Available in black or anthracite grey finishes, the Abutment Rooflight is supported by Roof Maker’s specialist Reflex Glass range in a variety of glass tint options.

Discover more about Roof Maker by using www.rdr.link/dg135

ADVERTISEMENT INDEX Aurora Ltd ..................................................................................(page 35)

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Norbord Europe Ltd ..................................................................(page 7)

Concrete Pipeline Systems Assoc ......................................(page 25)

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Imperial Brick ............................................................................(page 27)

Velux Co. Ltd ............................................................................(page 21)

48 july/august Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

last word Nick Foort, Technical Skin Specialist at leading safety company, Arco, discusses the risk of skin cancer facing outdoor workers and the responsibility employers have to ensure protection.

Stay safe in the sun M

any Health and Safety Managers express a real concern around the health and well-being of their employees and appreciate the risk skin cancer from UV exposure poses, but often feel that there are other risks that require more immediate attention. However, many are shocked to learn that skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the world and cases in the UK are rising faster than the rest of Europe.

On average five workers a day get skin cancer in Britain, with occupational skin cancer killing 60 people every year, which is more than falls from height or crush injuries.

With more than 1,500 new cases of non-melanoma skin cancer and 240 cases of malignant melanoma linked to solar radiation reported in Britain each year, it is vital employers understand their responsibility and legal duty of care when protecting their workers from UV radiation.

Take precautions With 90% of all occupational skin cancer deaths being preventable, the importance of employers placing the right

precautions in place to protect their workers is paramount.

So why isn’t more attention paid to such a risk? There is a common misconception that the weather in the UK isn’t sunny enough to pose a high risk of skin cancer to outdoor workers. However, up to 80% of dangerous UV rays still get through heavy cloud and the strength of solar radiation isn’t connected to temperature.

Lack of awareness In addition, it’s been reported that two out of three workers are unware they are at risk of skin cancer, resulting in many not applying protection whilst working outdoors, even if it has been provided.

Due to the high risk involved with skin cancer and the fact that outdoor workers receive up to 10 times the yearly sun exposure of indoor workers, employers need to do more than simply provide sun cream to their staff – greater education into the risks facing outdoor workers needs to be carried out.

Now is the time employers need to ensure they are going above and beyond to offer education and protection.

Packed into the next issue of Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer (PHPD)

employers need to do more than simply provide sun cream to their staff, greater education into the risks facing outdoor workers needs to be carried out WANT TO KNOW MORE? Those worried about the effects of UV radiation on their staff can visit www.arco.co.uk/uvrisks where additional information is provided, including: ● Key risks to outdoor workers ● Examples of the skin conditions sun exposure can cause ● A real-life skin cancer story ● Education on common workplace myths ● Advice on best practice

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INTERIORS

Use flooring to help create stunning rooms

SPECIAL REPORT

Increase natural light inside a home by reducing wall construction depth

SMART TECHNOLO GY

The benefits of switchin g to digital showers

MARKET UPDATE: BUYER

MASONRY & TIMB ER

Raise the quality of a new develop ment with timber internal doors

CONFIDENCE RETUR NS