Refurb & Developer Update - May 2021 by jetdigitalmedia

REFURB &

DEVELOPER May 2021

UPDATE

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WHY YOU SHOULD DISCOVER YOUR NEAREST IPG MEMBER see inside... STORE TODAY….

WHY YOU SHOULD DISCOVER YOUR NEAREST IPG MEMBER

JCA Plumbing, Southend on Sea

STORE TODAY…. The IPG was founded in the summer of 2013 by Robin Beal, when he identified there was a real need and an opportunity to strengthen and support independent businesses. It is now the largest and fastest growing membership group for plumbing, heating, and bathroom specialists, with a network of well over 100 suppliers and 200 member locations nationwide. In line with its stated vision of “supporting independents,” the group strives to make life for the independent as easy and as successful as possible, whilst enabling members customers to buy the best brands locally at great prices. Some of The IPG’s members share their experience of being part of the group: Dorchester Plumbing supplies joined in October 2014, they liked the idea of being part of a group which was specifically set up for the smaller independent business and liked the ‘stronger together’ ethos. Dorchester’s customers also recognise the advantages of the business working alongside The IPG developer-update.co.uk

and are very positive about the many benef its it provides them, including competitive pricing with unrivalled service and advice. Steve Rolph said, “Working with the IPG gives us a voice that is heard a lot more clearly by our customers and a presence that is noticed”. WMI Simpsons situated in Finchley, London, joined the IPG in 2015. As a family-run supplier of heating and bathroom products, Justin Protheroe, Sales Director was impressed with the passion the group demonstrated towards the independents. Recently, one of his customers commented on a favourable price that Justin was able to offer him saying that “it’s a better price than I can buy it

elsewhere”, Justin responded that it was because he was part of The IPG, who negotiate with suppliers on behalf of all their members to get favourable prices that he can pass on. ASE Plumbing & Heating Supplies is a well-established family-run and owned business that f irst opened its doors in 1988. Director, Adam Pearce, explains how The IPG has played a major part in its success story. “Over the past seven years, we have benefitted from several IPG strategies and initiatives, such as networking opportunities, marketing ideas and joint campaigns. The financial and business support The IPG has provided, has been second to none. The group has also helped improve our online presence by providing us with a website that is easy to update from the IPG portal and is well supported by suppliers with offers and banners. The profile of the independent merchant has been raised massively thanks to The IPG. The scale

and strength that can be achieved together has only been highlighted through being a member.” JCA Plumbing and Heating Merchants based in Southend on Sea are a new member, joining in November 2020. Howard Slowley was attracted by the support The IPG could offer his business; and wanted to be all in on the marketing initiatives available f rom the start. He promptly started working with The IPG team on a dual branded website and store in December 2020 in the belief that this will benefit his business and his competitive offering to his customers. “I am positive about the future now I am a member of The IPG. The group has already supported my business in creating a new brand identity, new store signage and we are working together on a dual branded website, as our relationship develops, the only way is up.” Howard Slowley. Central Plumbing and Bathroom Supplies in Knowle also joined the group at the end of 2020 and have similarly jumped in with two feet dual branding their store and website. They are looking forward to a bright future. Scott O’Neil enthuses “We have new members of staff coming on board very soon and new displays being installed so with the market ready to explode, I am very positive that our business will thrive in 2021 and beyond and I’m sure together we can succeed.”

Top: WMI Simpsons, Finchley, London Bottom: Central Plumbing and Bathroom Supplies, Knowle

So, in summary, why should you discover you nearest independent IPG member today ? They have unique advantages that cannot be found in more larger operations, they have exceptional product knowledge, are willing to go that extra mile to support their customers, can offer the best brands at great prices and most importantly, they have the human touch.

www.the-ipg.co.uk developer-update.co.uk

ecoSAVE 100% Energy Efficient Oil Filled Electric Heater. Designed to meet the heating demands of the modern home, the ecoSAVE is an 100% energy efficient oil filled electric Heater which incorporates the latest technology to allow 24/7 Wi-Fi controllability for both time and temperature.

This unique product benefits from 24/7 Manual or Smart control for all your heating requirements. Available in outputs from 750W to 1800W.

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01698 820533

CONTENTS 5 Refurb & Developer Update - May 2021

Industry News

Doors & Windows

Heating & Ventilation

Bathrooms & Washrooms

Roofing & Cladding

External Works & Landscaping

PPE

15 22 25

Ben Pritchard Emily Maclean Sam Andrews

ben@developer-update.co.uk 01843 580460 emily@developer-update.co.uk 01843 580460 sam@developer-update.co.uk 01843 580460

DULL BLOCK PAVING?

LET IT SHINE

Treat your block paving to our new High Gloss Block Sealer and say goodbye to oil stains, weed growths and dull appearance.

Head Office: Unit G16, River Bank Way, Lowfields Business Park, Elland, West Yorkshire HX5 9DN Tel: +44(0)1422 315300, Email: salesuk@bonditgroup.com, www.bonditgroup.com

SILICONES • SEALANTS • PU FOAMS • ADHESIVES • BUILDING CHEMICALS • TILE ADHESIVES & GROUTS • PLUMBING SOLUTIONS • BITUMENS

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04 Industry News

PUSHING THE ENVELOPE John Nolan of Generix Facades looks at the importance of a robust approach to testing the structural integrity and capability of facade systems

aving a solid understanding of how a facade system will perform prior to construction is crucial for architects, consultants and building specifiers. The Centre for Window and Cladding Technology (CWCT) is one of the UK’s leading authorities in the field of glazing and building envelopes. Based in Bath, the centre helps to set and regulate industry standards in building envelope design and construction. The centre offers a varied range of information which apply to different aspects of a building design. The CWCT Standard for systemised building envelopes was published in 2006 and is applicable to curtain walling, walls with ventilated rainscreens, and overhead glazing. Notably, both the National Building Specification (NBS) and the National House Building Council (NHBC) standards use the centre’s ‘Standard for curtain walling’ and ‘Standard for walls with ventilated rainscreen.’ What is rainscreen CWCT testing? A rainscreen test – or as it’s officially titled, a CWCT Sequence B Facade Test – is designed to test the serviceability and durability of a facade system in accordance with the appropriate standard (CWCT Standard for Walls with Ventilated Rainscreens).

Test 2 – Wind resistance testing (serviceability & safety) Test probes are positioned across the facade system to register panel deflection and the test rig is fully sealed. A fan is connected to the system void so either negative or positive pressure can be created. First the test simulates the system being pushed against the wall, increasing in stages until the safety point is reached. Following this, pressure is added to the void to test the system being pushed away from the wall. As before, pressure is increased in stages until the safety point is reached. The serviceability test simulates changes in high winds and measures any deflection of the system. The safety test is done at higher pressure – where the defections aren’t considered. Test 3 – impact resistance In the impact resistance test a series of impacts are recorded using a steel ball and a 50 kg leather bag of glass beads. These objects are swung from the pendulum to directly impact the facade system in several positions. Impact resistance is one of the most important properties for a facade designer to consider. Not only the ability of the material under test to resist impact – factors including how that material is fixed, what material it is fixed with, and how it transfers its impact load to the building will impact on its overall resistance. It’s imperative that impact testing is carried out prior to ensure the correct system is selected for the project.

To measure water penetration, water is sprayed continuously at the facade for 15 minutes. An aircraft engine is used to provide direct wind force.

Understanding the specif ic requirements of your project ahead of testing is crucial to evaluating what CWCT results are acceptable on any live project. Ultimately, full scale mock-up testing of a facade will save signif icant time and money by identifying how a facade will perform, and allow for any necessary amendments to be made to design and materials prior to the construction phase.

Once the test is completed, the system is fully dried, cleaned and all joints are sealed in preparation for the next test.

John Nolan is director at Generix Facades

A facade system is fixed to a full scale rig at a UKAS accredited testing site, and once the system has been installed it is put through a series of tests that determine serviceability. These tests focus on: • air leakage • dynamic pressure

• water penetration • impact.

Test 1 – Water penetration – dynamic

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Global Expansion and Re-structuring of Bond It

ond It, one o f t h e U K ’s fastest growing manufacturers of sealants, adhesives and building chemicals, is about to undergo a huge change as we enter quarter 2 of 2021. On the back of its recent acquisition of the Rescue Tape brand of self-fusing Silicone Tape, manufactured in North Carolina and distributed through warehouses in North Carolina and Los Angeles, the Company has now successfully launched the Bond It brand into the North American market.

I believe Dean is the right person to guide Bond It to its next level of evolution

As a result David Moore, one of the Company’s founding partners, will take on the role of CEO Bond It Group. He will split his time equally between the UK and the USA to oversee the smooth integration of distribution of Bond It products into the States. To help him in this role Bond It are pleased to announce the appointment of Dean Morgan as Managing Direc tor of the UK operation. Dean will bring with him a wealth of experience of manufacturing as well as already having a long established relationship with Bond It. “Dean was instrumental in guiding Bond It through the implementation of ISO 9001, 140001 and the recent 450001 systems and has worked with us for 12 years as a consultant.”

“I believe Dean is the right person to guide Bond It to its next level of evolution” said David Moore. Dean has gained over 40 years experience in various manufacturing co m pa n i e s a n d h a s i n - d e p t h k n ow l e d g e of trouble shooting, product development, management systems and driving improved financial performance, so he will be a major asset in his new role. He will direct the Company looking to streamline the processes already existing as part of our ISO Management S y s te m , l o o k i n g to improve e f f i c i e n cy, productivity and quality of the reputable Bond It brands. For more information on Bond It contact our Sales Team on 01422 315300 or visit www.bonditgroup.com

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06 Industry News

First social housing Passivhaus scheme handed over in Powys The first ever social housing scheme in Powys to reach Passivhaus standard has been completed. Pave Aways Building Contractors has handed over the seven energy efficient homes in a £1.3m development it built in Sarn, near Newtown, to Powys County Council. The homes – four two-bedroom bungalows, two two-bedroom and one three -bedroom houses – have all been certified to Passivhaus standard, the method of advanced lowenergy construction. Final air tests in the bungalows revealed 0.27 air changes an hour with the houses registering 0.49, below the maximum of 0.6 air changes per hour required for Passivhaus certification. The properties were built with heat recovery units to utilise the excess heat that is produced to warm the properties, thereby incurring lower heating bills. Each home also has 4.2 KW of photo voltaic roof panels to generate electricity.

Pave Aways also built the county’s f irst ever Passivhaus school for the council – the new Welshpool Church in Wales School that was f inished in November last year. Managing Director Steven Owen said: “To have been able to deliver this ground-breaking project for Powys has been a privilege and we hope the tenants will be happy in their new homes. This is undoubtedly the way forward for new housing stock and an important step in tackling issues around climate change and fuel poverty. From an industry point of view, it’s been a valuable learning curve for our team and sub contractors, bringing new skills to the region.”

Th e Passivh aus h ousin g scheme was developed by Powys County Council’s Affordable Housing Team and will help the council deliver one of its aims of Vision 2025 – to build 250 new homes by 2025. Nigel Brinn, Powys County Council’s Corporate Director for Economy and Environment, said: “These homes will not only help to cut carbon emissions but ensure tenants will have lower energy bills. “The council is making real progress with its ambitious target of delivering 250 new homes by 2025 and this scheme contributes to that target. The scheme has also provided a boost for the local economy with local sub-contractors and the supply chain being supported by the work.” The project brought additional benefits for Powys with more than £1.1m spent locally, 10,500 hours of work provided on site and 4,900 hours spent on apprentices and training time through its employees and the supply chain. Steven added: “One of our priorities is to ensure our projects have a wider reaching effect than just an economic one. The delivery of these new homes has had many benefits for the community in Mid Wales that will have a lasting legacy. New skills learned, training delivered and support to community groups have been just some of the side effects of this build.”

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Industry News 05

Bristan OPAC TMV3 Commercial Showers. At Bristan we continually invest in new product development to ensure that our products excel in quality, safety and performance. That’s why we’ve recently improved our range of OPAC TMV3 Commercial Showers, designed with a host of new innovations to meet the needs of commercial sector environments.

With a new patented built-in thermal flush mechanism, the OPAC range is designed for easy infection control and anti-legionella regimes. What’s more, a new front mounted one-piece cartridge makes for simple servicing and commissioning. And with TMV3 technology, you can rest assured that the highest level of safety and protection is guaranteed.

There’s a variety of options to choose from to suit your specification requirements — all of which quality tested in our UKAS accredited in-house testing centre. Discover the full range at the Bristan website.

Find your local IPG stockist: https://www.the-ipg.co.uk/stores/ developer-update.co.uk

DERBYSHIRE INSULATION MANUFACTURER LANDS £250,000 FUNDING PACKAGE

One of the UK’s leading building insulation manufacturers, YBS Insulation (“YBS”), has received a £250,000 loan to progress its growth plans.

of investing in energy efficient insulation and YBS is well placed to expand further at its site in North Derbyshire.”

YBS secured the finance from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund (“MEIF”) East & South East Midlands Debt Finance Fund, managed by Maven Capital Partners (“Maven”).

Sajeeda Rose, Chief Executive, D2N2 LEP said “Through the Midlands E n g i n e I n ve s t m e n t Fund, we want ambitious businesses to have the opportunity to grow and innovate. Supporting companies like YBS, which are h e l p i n g to re d u ce energy consumption and reduce carbon emissions, will help our regions collective vision for green led recovery and growth.”

The business, based in Creswell, Derbyshire, will use the funding to invest in new production machinery to increase its output capacity, as well as strengthening its sales and marketing function. The deal will help YBS continue to g e n e ra te n ew b u s i n e s s opportunities by enhancing its digital presence, improving its e-platform and growing its social media presence. YBS specialises in producing building insulation products for private homes and the construction sector such as multi-foil insulation, bubble laminates, cavity closers and foil membranes. Using its on-site laboratory and testing facility, YBS has developed a product range that is thinner, lighter and more energy efficient than traditional products that are on the market such as those that are made of mineral wool and polyisocyanurate (PIR) board. developer-update.co.uk

The business already supplies major UK builders’ merchants and DIY retailers such as Screwfix, Wickes, Toolstation and Homebase, in addition to retailers in Europe. Simon Sharkey, Managing Director at YBS comments: “This marks another exciting milestone for YBS as we look to continuously improve our customer offering though new product developments and improved eff iciency. We have significantly advanced the business over recent years, but this will provide the investment to really accelerate our plans. Jonathan and Maven have been instrumental in securing this investment and we at YBS are looking forward to building on this relationship.’’ Jonathan Lowe, Investment Director for Maven adds: “We are delighted to support Simon and his team with this MEIF loan as YBS look to develop to the next stage. Increasing numbers of property owners in the UK and overseas are seeing the benefits

The Midlands Engine Investment Fund project is supported financially by the European Union using funding f rom the European Regional D eve l o p m e n t Fu n d (ERDF) as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Grow th Programme 2014 -2020 and the European Investment Bank.

DOUBLE SIDED, ACID ETCHED DECORATIVE GLASS We are pleased to announce this new product coming into stock during April

LATTICE

FROST • • • • • • • • •

Balustrades Walls / partitions Office enclosures Shower screens Interior / exterior doors 10mm thickness Low iron Toughened Laminated

MIRAGE

Call us for more information 01708 374534 email sales@firmanglass.com or visit www.firmanglass.com Firman Glass, 19 Bates Road, Harold Wood, Romford, Essex RM3 0JH

10 Over the last few years conformity with legislation and standards present in Europe have been a prerequisite for producing and selling any goods within the EEA. This included products produced here, in the EEA or from overseas. Known as ‘CE’ marking, it is applicable equally to the manufacture and sale of a paper clip to more complex fire doors and fire screens. The ‘CE mark’ is a certification mark that is widely used throughout the EU.

Now the UK has launched its own conformity mark, the ‘UKCA mark’, this means that all products produced outside or inside the UK, for UK use, must carry the new UKCA mark. Fortunately, both conformity marks CE and UKCA, can be used this year, all products sold in the UK next year, 2022, must carry the UKCA mark.

In Northern Ireland, matters get a little more complicated as manufa c turers have their own UK(NI) mark to comply with which must be used alongside the CE marking. Whilst Great Britain will accept the UK(NI)+CE marked products known as ‘ u n f e tte r e d a c c e s s ’, products manufactured in Northern Ireland only need to carry the CE mark if they are to be sold solely in the EEA. Part of the reason for the difference in Northern Ireland is that whilst Northern Ireland sits within the EEA, f rom the 1st January 2021, it is now outside the EU Customs Union. It must be reiterated that for products manufactured and sold in Northern Ireland, they must always carry both the CE mark and the UK(NI). The ‘product’ f rom the ‘end fabricator’ must be CE marked (accepted up to the end of 2021) and/or UKCA marked, this refers to all the parts that make up the final product from various suppliers such as the f raming system, glazing and hardware. This must be declared in one document and on installation

it is not possible to substitute any part. The product, such as supplied i n a f i re s c re e n , including doors and glazing, is supplied to site complete in a fabricated form, glazing can be supplied separately on a stillage but must be supplied by the ‘end fabricator’. The door and sidescreens, or toplights, must fall within a single overall f rame, it is not possible to declare and UKCA mark - Fire Rated a coupled door frame to MB-86EI Door and Screen System a side screen or toplight. The company installing the product on-site may be another company who has sourced the product from an ‘end fabricator’. It is the manufacture of the installed product that carries the responsibility for the UKCA marking by ensuring that the installer follows detailed installation instructions. The pressure is now on manufacturers to ensure that all their products are all reassessed through UK Approved Bodies before the end of this year if they are continuing to be sold in the UK and carry the UKCA mark. From the 1st November 2019 ALL external f ire rated doorsets MUST carry conformity marking, CE and/or UKCA (f rom the being of 2021), to ensure conformity to both BS EN 14351-1:2006+A2:2016 - ‘Windows and doors. Product standard, performance characteristics. Windows and external pedestrian doorsets’. and BS EN 16034:2014 - ‘Pedestrian doorsets, industrial, commercial, garage doors and openable windows. Product standard,

by Wojciech Brozyna - MD of Aluprof UK

’THE MOVE TO UKCA MARKING OF EXTERNAL FIREDOORS’ Since Brexit the UK now sits outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and has a trade agreement which helps businesses trade without tariffs between the EEA and the UK. Despite the increased levels of paperwork required for such imports and exports, it is ‘almost business as usual’. developer-update.co.uk

11 performance characteristics. Fire resisting and/or smoke control characteristics.’ T h e S t a n d a rd , B S E N 16034 Pedestrian doorsets, industrial, commercial, garage doors and openable windows — Product standard, performance characteristics — Fire resisting and/or smoke control characteristics, cannot be used on its own for CE and/ or UKCA (f rom the being of 2021) marking purposes as it must be used in conjunction with BS EN 14351-1. External Pedestrian Doorsets can include sidescreens as long as they are not coupled. The required characteristics are then raised on the DoP (Declaration of Performance) by the ‘end fabricator’ based on the ITT data supplied by the systems company and the fabricator’s own CoCoP (Certif icate of Constancy of Performance). A UK approved body then have to assess the fabricator to AVCP System Level 1 and only then can the UKCA mark be attached to the product. As a result of these imposed regulations, BS 476: Parts 20 & 22 can no longer be used as fire test evidence to CE and/or UKCA mark an external fire rated doorset. Whilst BS EN 16034 was first published in October 2014, it didn’t become a harmonised standard available for use as CE mark evidence until 1st November 2016. As with all new standards, there is a co-existence period in which current standards run alongside the new standard which lasted for three years ending on the 1st November 2019. As for internal f ire rated doorsets and screens we still wait for the BS EN 14351-2 ‘Product standard, performance characteristics. Internal pedestrian doorsets.’ To be cited in the Off icial Journal of European Union (OJEU) which was expected to be published in November/ December 2019. This means

that it is currently not possible to CE and/or UKCA mark internal f ire rated doorsets and screens until the harmonisation of this standard occurs. Products can still be tested to achieve stated performance and covered by third party means such as Certifire. As aluminium remains the most widely specified material for commercial windows, doors and curtain wall, it should come as no surprise that as a leading European systems company, Aluprof offer a comprehensive range of fire rated systems. With an 86mm frame depth, the new glazed window and door system, MB-86EI can achieve class EI15, EW30, EI30, according to BS EN 13501-2:2016. Complete with polyamide thermal breaks, the door system is ideal for use in both external or internal applications. Doorsets can be manufactured with both f ixed lights and opening, single or double doors, in a single outerf rame to be UKCA marked, but it must be remembered that external coupled screen assemblies cannot be UKCA marked to BS EN 16034:2014. Furthermore, in what is believed to be a first for the UK industry, a cap-less, f ire rated curtain wall system is available and has been installed on a refurbishment development in Manchester. The project, known as ‘The Core’, is located at 24-30 Brown Street in the city centre and uses the ‘MB-SR50N EI EFEKT’ developed by Aluprof. A f ire rating of EI60 was required on part of the new cap-less, curved glass facade on the top floor. Aluprof ’s new system, MB-SR50N EI EFEKT, enabled the architect to have a cap-less fire rated system whilst at the same time seamlessly blending in with areas which did not require a fire rating.

MB-78EI DPA Automatic Sliding Firedoors

The Aluprof brochure entitled, ‘Fire Rated and Smoke Exhaust Systems’, explains in detail each product and rating. Aluprof systems offer some of the highest fire protection ratings in Europe, some reaching EI120 - that’s two hours fire and smoke protection. Each system has been tested according to European industry standards with various specialist glasses and many are fully covered by the UK’s ‘Certif ire’ certif icate of approval. With the emergence of the separate UKCA and UKNI marking it is advisable that you contact Aluprof for further technical advice when specifying for use in the UK and Northern Ireland. Since setting up the Aluprof Office at the Business Design Centre in London, the company has rapidly grown their specification influence in the UK with their high performance architectural aluminium systems. Further expansion of the companies headquarters in Altrincham now provides specif iers with meeting facilities and an extensive showroom of commercial systems to view. With overseas growth across Europe spreading into the Middle East and firm roots already in the East of the USA, the company is becoming a global player in facade supply. Further information is available on the companies website at aluprof.co.uk or direct f rom their UK off ice in Altrincham on 0161 941 4005.

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12 Coatings & Paints Providing the UK with an almost clinically clean environment BT1 Ultimate Bathroom Sealant & Adhesive TRIBRID® Technology. Made in Britain

NO MORE MOULD OR FUNGAL GROWTH CT 1 who lead the way in research and development have pioneered the latest technology for the building industry over the last 18 years. The first to introduce a h y b r i d s ea l a n t almost 18 years ago, pioneered the way forward with a new era of sealants. CT1 showed the industry that you only need one tube for most applications with the correct raw materials and formulation. This new technology presented itself in a tube CT1. CT1 created a formulation with no solvents, allowing CT1 to perform under any difficult conditions, even under water. CT1 can guarantee that it will never shrink or crack, so it will not lose its bonding and sealing capabilities over time. Realising that hybrid formulations would be soon dated with old technology, as demands increase in what we expect from products and with the building industry producing more complex builds. CT1 was proactive rather than re-active. Introducing TRIBRID® technology. Another new era of sealants and adhesives. Now three times stronger, longer colour retention and elongation, TRIBRID® CT1 can’t be matched or compared to again for a long time. CT1’s technical field team also realised that in today’s current conditions people are demanding much cleaner environments and surface areas. Using the

correct sealants and adhesives in installations and repairs is key keeping a surface area healthier. BT 1- The Ultimate Bathroom Sealant and Adhesive was created as most sealants over time will allow bacterial and fungal growth. Some will grow quicker than others. The bathroom can be a contaminated area, with heat, fluids and lack of UV light. BT1 based on the revolutionary TRIBRID® formulation, was created to prevent fungal and bacteria growth happening over long periods of time. This unique formulation makes it impossible for bacteria or microbes to form on the surface, and with almost zero indoor emissions, makes this the heathiest choice for your home. But what became apparent after vigorous testing was that using BT1 would reduce the risk of MRSA, E. Coli and campylobacter. Reducing bacteria by 99.99% and being able to retain its clinically clean white appearance is now proving to be the only sealant and adhesive being used by Hospitals, Aged Care Facilities, Clinics, Schools, Universities and Public Buildings. Solihull Hospital in Birmingham and Good Hope Hospital in Sutton to name a few have used and will only use BT1. BT 1 - which can also be used in kitchen installations, launched initially in The IPG Member Stores. The IPG is the largest and fastest growing membership group for plumbing, heating and bathroom specialists, wanted to add BT1 to their stock profile and give their members the latest technology for plumbing and installations. Since the growth and reputation of BT1 and the important role it plays in keeping a healthier environment, Wickes stores, will now also be stocking BT1 nationwide. Go to www.CT1.com and https://youtu.be/kirVUrwWbaY

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h e n we t a l k a b o u t pa i n t breathability, we mean how much air and water vapour can easily flow through its surface. Older properties were built using materials that were designed to promote this airflow. Using paint with a high level of breathability, coupled with breathable building materials, means that moisture doesn’t become ‘trapped’ beneath the surface of the paint. Lime for example, is a traditional building material which has been used in the construction of properties for hundreds of years, and shouldn’t be sealed with a plastic based paint. It’s durable yet highly flexible. Being moisture permeable, it allows the walls to breathe. So the paint used on top should be breathable too.

Coatings & Paints 15

Why use a breathable paint?

Using a non-breathable paint can cause problems with the fabric of the building if left. Trapped moisture can lead to damp walls, causing the paint to bubble, peel and eventually blow completely. It can also contribute to a harmful living environment. Earthborn Claypaint is highly breathable, but that’s easy to say and proof is needed. Paint breathability can be measured in a couple of different ways: The first is the Steam Diffusion (or SD) value. It is widely accepted that for a paint to be classed as breathable it should have an SD value of 1 or lower; the lower the value the more breathable the paint. Earthborn Claypaint has an SD value of just 0.02m. The other method used is the moisture vapour transmission rate (MVTR) which measures the amount of water vapour (in grams) able to pass through the paint surface over a 24 hour period. The higher the f igure, the more water vapour that can pass through, and therefore the more breathable the paint. Earthborn Claypaint has an MTV of 1115g/m2/24h, compared with a typical emulsion paint which usually measures between 400-500g/m2/24h. In addition, Earthborn Claypaint has no oils, no acrylics and a negligible VOC content – less than 62 parts per million! Legislative recommendations mean manufacturers should not claim paints to

be 100% VOC free so we honestly describe our products as virtually VOC free. Ease of use, high covering power and lack of harmful emissions make Claypaint an ideal option to optimise breathability for any building. Earthborn’s new colour card showing all 72 colours in the classic range is now available and100% recyclable, including the adhesive and the paint chips that use real Claypaint.

www.earthbornpaints.co.uk developer-update.co.uk

IG Masonry Support’s brick slip soffit solutions help deliver architect’s vision for huge innercity housing project Overview

CASE STUDY Project: Regent’s Park Regeneration Project address: Camden, London, NW3 2YS Products used: Welded Masonry Support, Brick Slip Lintels, B.O.S.S. (Brick On Soffit System), Cast-in-Channel Architect: Ingleton Wood Brickwork Subcontractor: Chime Brickwork

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Regent’s Park Regeneration is a £72m development which has seen the creation of 122 affordable new homes and community facilities in Camden, n o r t h -we s t Lo n d o n . T h e scheme, on behalf of Camden Council, followed the demolition of housing and businesses in the area to make way for the High Speed 2 rail link between London and the West Midlands. As a result, Lovell Homes London, in conjunction with architects Ingleton Wood, was selected to deliver the new homes across eight sites within the existing estate. The oneto-f ive-bedroom apartments are situated in an inner-city location with buildings ranging from three-to-eleven storeys in height.

For all of the project’s apartment blocks, IG Masonry Support worked alongside the contractor and architect to develop a range of prefabricated brick slip components to help achieve the intricate brick elements and brick soff its featured throughout the development.

The Challenge Each building within the Regent’s Park Regeneration presented a slightly different challenge, with the brick elements playing a vital role in fulf illing the architect’s vision for each of the blocks. Various brickwork features in an array of bespoke designs were required for the exterior of the blocks. Traditionally, achieving these features requires skilled labour cutting bricks onsite, a time-consuming process

which IG Masonry Support’s offsite manufacture of bespoke, pre-fabricated brick slip components helped to significantly speed-up.

The Solution The intricate brick detail achieved at the Regent’s Park Regeneration project highlights the design versatility of IG’s offsite brick slip solutions. The company worked with the architect f rom an early stage to design effective offsite solutions which enabled the project’s complex brick details to be achieved across the eight buildings; Cape of Good Hope, Newlands, Rydal Water, Robert Street, St Bede’s, Varndell, The Victory Pub and Dick Collins House. IG Masonry Support was challenged to supply brick slip soff it solutions, accommodating the range of different sized openings and soff it requirements throughout the development. A combination of Brick Slip Lintels and B.O.S.S. units capable of achieving both stretcher and soldier course bond patterns, were designed by IG’s technical team. These

offsite units achieved the beautiful brick soff its over apartment block windows and openings on the various elevations of the buildings throughout the development. The Newlands and Rydal Water buildings presented complex brickwork elements that required IG’s technical team to design bespoke B.O.S.S. units to achieve the detailing specified within the architect’s designs. Beautiful brick soffits varying in depth from 102mm to 440mm feature over the balconies on every corner of these apartment blocks, as well as recess panels with 102mm brick soffits in a stretcher bond

pattern on each elevation. A flying beam features on the upper level balconies of the Varndell building. This architectural detail, which has a 665mm soffit, was also achieved using bespokedesigned B.O.S.S. units. IG Masonry Support’s precise, prefabricated solutions manufactured using a consignment of bricks f rom site, blended seamlessly within the buildings’ eyecatching exterior. From design stage to delivery, IG Masonry Support worked alongside the contractor and the architect to deliver complex brickwork elements that formed an integral part of the design of the buildings. The result is a stunning, modern inner-city housing development which has not only been shortlisted for a host of industry honours including the RTPI Awards for Planning Excellence, New London Architecture Awards, and RICS Social Impact Awards; it’s provided new homes and peace of mind for hundreds of residents whose domestic lives were transformed by the government’s ambitious rail project.

igmasonrysupport.com

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18 Doors & Windows

Five ways to add value to your home quickly Homeowners wishing to refresh and update their homes can look to five simple ways to add value to properties quickly, as suggested by home improvement experts. Whether you are looking to sell your home this year or simply wish to make changes to improve your living space, there are a number of ways you can add value to your property that will prove to be a worthwhile investment, lasting for years to come. As many of us are now spending more time indoors and working from home, it is important to consider upgrades to your home that can improve your quality of living and prospects of selling, so the home improvement experts at Stormclad have compiled their top suggestions for adding value to your home quickly. Managing director of Stormclad, John Evans, said: “With everyone spending more and more time in the comfort of

A new front door

A front door is one of the first things that guests – and potential buyers if you’re selling your home – will notice in a property, so making a good first impression is key. Whether you are looking to make a quick sale in the current market or just want to add value to properties for the future, a new front door will improve the focal point of any home and help with the success of a sale. From the materials used, to the colour, glass and energy efficiency – there are many things to consider when choosing a new front door. The best way to begin is by ascertaining a realistic budget, so you can narrow down the most suitable options available to you. Aside from kerb appeal, a new front door will also help heat retention in your home, potentially saving you money on energy bills, as well as providing added security with the latest locking systems.

Replace existing patio and back doors

A new patio or back door can breathe new life into the interior and exterior of any property, adding unique character to all architectural home styles - from contemporary builds to period pieces - often maximising natural light in any property.

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their own homes during lockdown, the start of 2021 is the ideal time to make new and valuable home improvements. “For homeowners thinking about selling their property this year to relocate – while it is now too late to take advantage of the stamp duty holiday before 31 st March, it’s still worth ensuring your home is the best it can be to maximise your living enjoyment, and should the time come to put your property on the market, you know it will be ready for the future. “As home improvement experts with over 20 years’ experience, we have listed five ways you can add value to your home - from installing a conservatory, to upgrading windows and doors – giving your home a facelift will not only add value, but also guarantee quality fixtures that will last well into the future.” Here is the list of five ways to add value to your home: With an array of patio door styles available including French doors, bifolding doors and sliding doors, a back door upgrade can be a great way to bring the outdoors in, further securing access points and depending on the door option, improving the view out to a rear garden or courtyard – something you may find yourself yearning for as you spend more time at home.

Replace windows

Replacing windows is one of the single biggest improvements you can make to your home, with the largest impact. Not only will new windows improve the performance of your home in terms of energy efficiency, by retaining heat and regulating the temperature during the summer months, but it will also provide added security and aesthetic appeal to your property. Windows are one of the areas most prone to heat loss in the home, with single paned windows capable of emitting around 84% of a room’s heat. To safeguard your home for the future and add sell-on value, consider investing in double glazing to retain heat in your property and save money.

Older windows can look outdated, so replacing them with a durable frame such as aluminium, will transform the look of your home outside and in, and continue to look smart over time.

Refurbish your existing conservatory

Conservatories that may be suffering with damp or a leaking roof, or struggling with temperature control, may be in need of refurbishment. Refurbishment is a great way to utilise some of the old components or rebuild a new structure on your old conservatory’s base to provide a refreshed space. Consider transforming an underutilised conservatory into an entirely new room – such as somewhere to enjoy a hobby you have chosen to start in the new year. This can provide you with a tranquil place to escape to for some much-needed down time during lockdown, and will also demonstrate how the space can be used to potential buyers, if you’re looking to place your home on the market.

A brand-new conservatory

A brand-new conservatory extension is a great way to add a light and airy room to your home which can serve as a versatile space that could function as a dining room, living area, playroom or home office. This option may suit you and your family more than a traditional extension, as it will bring you closer to your garden or outdoor space, connecting you with nature, greenery and blue skies. It is a great option if you are looking to enjoy a peaceful setting, away from the rest of the house. For more information or to speak to the Stormclad team, visit the company website here.

www.firmanglass.com

Shopspec_glazingexcellence-2018:Firman 01/03/2018 17:04 Page 1

Established in 1975 Firman Glass is one of the leading

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20 Doors & Windows

BLACK BARN: FORMER COTSWOLDS GRAIN STORE CAPTURED BY HANDOVER Photography studio, Handover, share their captures of Black Barn – the 6,500 sq ft development situated north of the Cotswolds, completed in 2020 by multi-disciplinary architecture, interior design and delivery studio Rigby & Rigby.

Image: Handover

timber and sheet aluminium, both materials being honest to the building’s former aesthetic. Developed as a holistic scheme which is utilitarian in design, a key consideration was referencing Black Barn’s former use as an agricultural grain store. The residence comprises accommodation in the main house with a Dutch Barn running in parallel, f raming an inner courtyard space. By carefully respecting the buildings original form, the proper ty was punctuated symmetrically with large-format windows to provide lots of natural light and ventilation.

Image: Handover

“Black Barn was a unique opportunity for us to work on

such a large scale residential photography project.” Explains Daniel Tuck, co-founder of Handover. “Whilst capturing the traditional architectural elevations was key, we often work to capture the more abstract perspectives when documenting such a visually striking proper ty. Having seen the concept develop f rom drawing to completion, we gain ed an in- depth understanding of how Rigby & Rigby wanted to showcase this home and how their talented design team fully deserve their esteemed worldwide reputation.” A central staircase and fireplace run along the length of Black Barn, reflecting the scale and depth within the double-height void. This provides circulation onto the mezzanine seating area f rom where a glass walkway provides access to private bedrooms with en-suites. At the southernmost part of the upper storey, a library is located with far-reaching views across the countryside. Externally the architecture was simplif ied by enhancing the detailing around the cladding with a contrast of materials used f rom black liner multi-width

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The Nordic style interior design scheme was developed from its minimalist background to create the multi-functional and open plan living area for family living, entertaining, dining, breakfast whilst relaxation is found in the media room with pool table and bar overlooking the courtyard. The interior is comfortable with design classics f rom Flexform and Poltrona Frau and the new Rimedesio range for coffee tables. A custom ‘Skyfall’ rug designed by Rigby & Rigby in collaboration with Colbourns surrounds the f ireplace and informal seating area. One specif ic outstanding feature of Black Barn is the Dutch Barn which creates an inner shelter adjacent to the Japanese inspired courtyard space to the main house. The Dutch Barn features an annexe with a mezzanine bedroom, bathroom and kitchen/living facilities. Also, Black Barn comes with a fully equipped gym, workshop garage - to house a classic bike and car, a covered BBQ area for the summer months and an adjacent kitchen garden for vegetables and herbs with an orchard to the rear nestled into a wild meadow.

Exhibits thoughtful, well-executed design and luxury

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22 D espite the UK Government’s shock announcement of the early closure of the Green Homes Grant at the end of this month, Panasonic Heating & Cooling has conf irmed that its Green Homes and Green Install Cashback schemes will c o n t i n u e to p rov i d e support for Panasonic air source heat pump installations until 30th June 2021. Jose Alves, UK Country Manager for Panasonic commented, “Panasonic had welcomed the UK Government’s scheme to help the sector and to help reach its net zero targets. We therefore have no hesitation in continuing with both our Green Cashback schemes to help both installers and homeowners to make the switch to renewable air source heat pumps, in a bid to help homeowners to decarbonise their homes and become more energy efficient. As the road to recovery begins, manufacturers, such as Panasonic, are stepping up to th e challen ge to meet the net zero emission targets by 2050. For example, Panasonic is increasing its offering of sustainable energy solutions as well as increasing online training availability for installers by offering specific and accredited training courses to help installers become more efficient and knowledgeable in correctly installing renewable air-towater heat pumps.

Panasonic’s Cashback Schemes to Continue Despite Government U-turn on Green Homes Grant Tony Lathey, Air-to-Water Product Specialist for Panasonic further added, “The scheme was an upf ront grant to help towards the initial cost of a heat pump, with the full potential grant available from the domestic RHI. The good news is the domestic RHI grant is still available for end users until 31st March 2022, installing a Panasonic Aquarea Heat Pump can provide a grant of over £12,200 paid over of seven years.” Homeowners will also still be able to claim upto £600* cashback on Panasonic Aquarea Heat Pump installations with their Green Homes Cashback scheme, plus heat pump installers will also still be eligible for £800* cashback on completion of f ive installs with their Green Install Cashback scheme until 30th June 2021 (*terms and conditions apply).

The good news is the domestic RHI grant is still available for end users until 31st March 2022 developer-update.co.uk

Panasonic’s Aquarea range of air-to-water heat pumps is among the widest on the market, with systems available to suit all sizes of property and capacity requirements. The recent UK Government announcement mentions that “the £300m previously allocated for the Government’s Green Homes Grant will now go into a programme administered by local authorities, targeted at lower income households. The new scheme will be delivered through the Green Homes Grant Local Authority Delivery Scheme and Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund Demonstrator, this will include green home improvements such as deep insulation, heat pumps and solar panels, helping cut over 70,000 tonnes of carbon from the atmosphere each year.” Through the Pr i m e Minister’s Ten Point Plan for a Green Revolution, the Government still plans to deploy 600,000 heat pumps a year by 2028, and to get as many homes as possible to Energy Performance Certif icate Band C by 2035.

For more information on the Panasonic range of renewable energy efficient heat pump solutions and the Green cashback schemes, please visit – https://www.aircon.panasonic.eu/GB_en/air-source-heat-pumps/. developer-update.co.uk

Ventilation 25

How

SCORE MULTIPLE BENEFITS FROM ONE UPGRADE The Tangerines aka Blackpool FC have extracted optimum benefit from a comparatively small upgrade.

he League 1 Club’s stadium, built in 2010, has already needed to refurbish the exposed areas of the façade due to the extreme climatic conditions faced as a result of its proximity to the sea. The club management called up the premier player in the sector- Gilberts Blackpool- to replace the now rusty plant screening and ventilation louvres. Now, two banks of Gilberts’ WGK75 kit-form louvres each 10m x 3m either side of the Stadium merchandise shop, and a further 4m x 4m screen by the north stand, have been fitted. To optimise protection, the aluminium louvres have been powder coated marine grade- in tangerine. “Our nickname is The Tangerines. As I wanted to create a talking point, it seemed logical to choose such a bright colour for the louvres, especially as Gilberts as a company has been actively encouraging the use of colour to brighten our built landscape,” observed Glynn Makin, Blackpool FC stadium manager. “I knew from Gilberts’ reputation that the company would be on target for quality and price too, which was an added benefit.”

Adds Ian Rogers, Gilberts Sales Director, “You don’t get environments in England much more extreme than the North Sea/ Lancashire coast. We had to be sure that whatever we supplied would perform, balancing performance with value for money. WGK scored on all counts.” Gilberts’ WGK75 features a unique clip-on blade that enables quick yet precise fitting on site. Once installed, it provides a good 50% free ventilation area whilst protecting from weather ingress. The WGK75 is part of Gilberts’ louvre product range, developed over the years to provide a comprehensive package to keep pace with the evolution of building design and structural interfaces. It includes standard, high performance, site assembled and acoustic louvres, available in a range of ratings for weight, ventilation, weather, insects and even bird ingress. Even fixings can often be tailored to individual site preferences. Innovatively, with its in-house design expertise, Gilberts has the capability to create bespoke configurations which can be both CFD modelled, and tested within its own laboratory to give customers complete ‘fit for purpose’ peace of mind. Gilberts also offers a comprehensive range of PPC,PVF and PVF2 coatings across its louvres, available in any RAL colour, applied to louvres of almost any size. Founded over half a century ago, and still familyowned, Gilberts is the UK’s leading independent air movement engineer. It is unique in its ability to design, manufacture and test all products- including bespoke fabrications- in-house, to the extent it even designs and manufactures its own tools at its 95,000 sq ft head office and production facility. Gilberts tel 01253 766911 E: info@gilbertsblackpool.com developer-update.co.uk

26 Ventilation

The Aquarea air source heat pump - PANASONIC’S QUIET REVOLUTION IN PROVIDING HEATING…

s many of us get used to the reality of spending more time at home, the benef its of having a quiet, yet extremely efficient heating and domestic hot water system have become more obvious. Switching technologies f rom traditional systems powered by Mains Gas, Oil or L.P.G. to an Air Source Heat Pump can deliver significant cost savings, improvements to heating performance and low sound levels, thanks to Panasonic’s Aquarea Heat Pump Range this is possible. According to independent tests, the Panasonic Aquarea J Generation R32 Mini Monobloc range and 16kW Bi-Bloc T-Cap Super Quiet air-to water heat pumps have been confirmed to have impressively low levels of noise when in operation.

The independent testing was carried out by the Danish Te c h n o l o g i c a l Institute in Denmark with results conf irming that the new Aquarea Monobloc 5kW, 7kW and 9kW Super-Quiet Bi-bloc 16kW T-CAP Aquarea Air-towater heat pumps came out with market leading low noise levels, with 60dB(A)1 whilst operating at full load. The tests were carried out for the sound power level according to EN 12102-1:2017 for full load and Quiet mode 3 at A7/W55. In Quiet mode operation, Aquarea heat pumps can operate at a further 4dB(A) reduced noise level. Aquarea A2W Heat Pumps are proving popular with developers looking to provide highly eff icient heating and hot water, whilst also providing homeowners with a

reliable system offering long-term energy savings. Ivor Farnworth, Managing Director of Primrose D e ve l o p m e n t s c o m m e n te d “We recently looked into several systems but found the Panasonic Aquarea T-Cap heat pumps to be very quiet compared to competitors, aesthetically pleasing and have been impressed with the performance of the product.” Tony Lathey, Air-to-Water Product Specialist for Panasonic Heating & Cooling Solutions UK added, “We are delighted by the recent findings of these test results, we knew the units were quiet but independent results confirm the Aquarea as a market leader for low noise and quiet operation. Considering the fact that we have all been spending more time at home and there is a big push for more renewable heating and cooling solutions such as air source heat pumps, it’s clear that issues such as noise levels is of upmost importance. Aquarea delivers on both performance and efficiency and with a wide range of units to choose from, there is an option available for most project needs.” Along with low noise levels, the new Aquarea R32 monobloc has MCS SCoP figures of 5.073 along with CoP figures of 5.574. Aquarea Super Quiet 16kW T-CAP (Total Capacity) delivers outstanding efficiency in heating and domestic hot water supply. This unit can supply all the heating and domestic hot water to a 450m2 new build property. Panasonic Aquarea Heat pumps can be connected to radiators, underfloor and fan assisted radiators to deliver heating in the winter, plus dedicated cooling can be provided during the summer if required f rom the units. The wide range from 3kW to 16kW in Monobloc, Bi-Bloc or All In One, ensures the right model is available for all requirements and designs. To f ind out more about the Panasonic Aquarea range of air source heat pumps, please visit: www.aircon.panasonic.eu /GB_en/

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28 Section Name

STELLA ROOFLIGHT HELPS TURN OLD CAR SHOWROOM INTO NEW SHOW HOME Stella Rooflight has supplied 12 bespoke conservation rooflights for a stunning conversion project in the seaside town of Lytham St Annes in Lancashire. The project to convert a Late Edwardian purpose-built garage and car showroom into a stunning 21st Century modern home was the dream of architect and homeowner Sean Kember.

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The property was first designed and constructed in 1909 by local architect Thomas Hedges, for the Williams Brothers. The building remained a car showroom for over 100 years and to this day the

building remains somewhat of an icon in the local area. Conscious of the building’s local history and importance the new owners were careful to preserve

29 the original fabric of the building, while undertaking the much needed renovation works, which would breathe new life into the building and transform it into their new dream seaside home.

openings. 10 smaller rooflights, which comprised of 6 opening and 4 fixed frames, were designed to fit internal rafters of 690mm x 940mm and 550mm x 740mm.

A large part of the renovation and conversion works included the complete rebuilding of the old steel structured roof with new timbers and the installation of large conservation rooflights, which would flood the large open internal space with natural daylight.

A much larger non opening rooflight which was sized at 3000mm wide x 3500mm high was designed as a grand centre piece in the roof. This rooflight was supplied in two sections which were purpose designed to sit one on top of the other, with each section being divided into three panes.

Stella Rooflight were commissioned to produce a total of 12 bespoke conservation rooflights to fit the new

All 12 rooflights were manufactured using marine grade stainless steel and finished in a high quality C5 marine grade black powder coating. An important consideration given the building’s coastal location and the propensity to rust associated with mild carbon steel rooflights. The Stella rooflights also included a high specification glazing with BioClean Self-Clean, Solar Control outer pane with a warm edge spacer filled with Argon Gas. The internal glass panel used Planitherm Comfort Plus to provide the perfect balance of light, warmth and comfort. The rooflight was finished internally with a stunning American Ash interior liner. Due to the size of the larger rooflights, a specialist crane was

required to lift the rooflights from the delivery vehicle, over the building and directly into place. The installation required careful planning, which was overseen by local specialist roofing contractor Ben Valentine-Lynden from Blackpool Industrial Roofing. Ben said: “Throughout the process we dealt directly with Paul at Stella. He was incredibly helpful throughout, advising us on the whole installation from the crane lift to weather proofing the roof lights. Paul was also happy to schedule the arrival of the rooflights to suit us and the weather, on arrival the units were packaged excellently and made for an easy transition from wagon to roof. “Overall I think these are a great product, easy enough to install and the finished look is fantastic. Would definitely recommend and would use again.” Sean Kember, Client and Director of Gilling Dod Architects, said: “Stella’s technical team worked closely with us throughout the process and were a great help in making sure that everything ran smoothly. As you would expect we did a great deal of research before deciding to run with Stella Rooflights, and from your initial assistance with the specification through to the installation on site, you have been great to work with. I would also like to say that the quality of the rooflights is excellent! Thank you.” For further information on Stella conservation rooflights contact Paul Trace on 01794 745445, email info@stellarooflight.co.uk or visit www.stellarooflight.co.uk For further information about Gilling Dod Architects visit www.gillingdod.com

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30 Roofing & cladding

GOOD MANAGEMENT IS KEY TO A ROOF’S LONG-TERM PERFORMANCE By Kevin O’Connell at IKO Group Dependent on the products and materials used, a flat roof’s waterproofing should last between 20 and 40 years. Good maintenance will also contribute to its performance and longevity. But which proactive steps need to be taken when a waterproofing system reaches the end of its serviceable life? Roofing purpose When deciding on a waterproof ing system for a flat roof application, it’s important to consider what it’s meant to do. An appropriately-designed and correctly-installed solution will prevent a prevalence of standing water, which in-turn will protect the structural integrity of the building itself. Water carries immense weight and when left to pond, it could lead to the breakdown of the roof’s coating which will leave the roof susceptible to the UV degradation. As an example of the immense strain it can bring to bear, 1mm of water per m2 equates to 1kg. Therefore, that same level of water across a 5mm x 30m2 surface would be akin to two adults standing on a roof. Long-standing water can also promote vegetation growth in the form of plants and fungi; wildlife that can penetrate a flat roof’s surface and cause untold damage to the building itself. As well as keeping a roof dry, a good waterproofing system should ensure it achieves regulatory levels of thermal performance. In poorly insulated homes, roofs account for 25% of a building’s heat loss. It is crucial, therefore, that the insulation supplied as part of a build-up offers an effective barrier to energy escape whilst being of suitable thickness to prevent the obstruction of door and window thresholds. Its design should also take into account roofs with plant installations, walkways and safety features such as guardrails and hatch systems. Monitor to prevent major repairs Good management can be achieved by gaining an understanding of your roof stock. Is it old or is it new? Are there other plans for the building that could impact the roof? New windows may provide less ventilation than old ones; therefore will an extension be required to facilitate such an installation? Prevention is better than cure, a saying that is particularly pertinent to roof ing management. Neglecting to act upon tell-tale signs of a roof’s degradation can transform a seemingly minor maintenance issue into a major repair project that potentially comes at great expense to a property owner in order to keep it weathertight and its occupants safe. This worst-case scenario can be avoided by keeping a periodical look-out for signs developer-update.co.uk

of natural wear and tear which indicate a roof’s performance is in danger of being compromised. These visual sirens might include elements such as lap joints becoming loose or in the case of an asphalt roof, the appearance of surface lumps and creases, or even blocked outlets. Getting the balance right In terms of appropriate waterproof specification for flat roofs, property owners must strike a balance between the ‘nice’ to have, with the ‘need’ to have. To ensure this thin line is more easily navigated, it’s important to decide upon a level of spending by drawing up a budget. This should take into account future plans for the roof asset and the building itself. Engage with the experts The aforementioned issues can be overcome by engaging with roof ing, waterproof ing and insulation experts such as IKO Group. Our industry expertise is available to facilitate an appropriate solution for a wide range of flat and tapered roof applications. In terms of performance and cost, we have the all-round knowledge to direct clients towards the most appropriate waterproof ing solution. We understand that although hardly out of sight; roofs are out of mind for most people – it’s just not something they choose to think about. However, this shouldn’t detract from their everyday importance, and at IKO we’ve got the whole of issue of roofing design and performance covered. Early engagement will always result in a more favourable outcome. March webinar The next in a series of monthly webinars hosted by IKO focuses on Roofing Stock Management. It offers further insight into issues highlighted within this blog such as flat roof failure prevention, roofing maintenance, surveys, post-installation aftercare and value engineering. It also looks at British standards guidance in relation to waterproofing health and safety practices including working at height. In summary, IKO’s Roofing Stock Management webinar is a professionally-led presentation that roofing professionals will not want to miss. The free-to-view presentation takes place on March 11th, 16th, 18th, 23rd, 25th and 30th. To sign-up and for details on IKO’s future webinars, visit: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/iko-roofing-stockmanagement-tickets-144396924087

SUSTAINABLE ROOF SOLUTION FOR NEW BUILD PROJECTS

“PLANT PLANT PLANT”

‘Build, Build, Build’ acknowledged in planned reforms to put infrastructure at the centre of the Government’s economic growth strategy. Part of this announcement has emphasised the importance in safeguarding the UK’s natural environment by utilising methods in ‘capturing and removing CO2 from the atmosphere, protecting precious biodiversity, and connecting people with nature’. (Gov.UK) Green roofs and roof terraces/podiums can provide mentally beneficial spaces for occupants, as well as the ability to combat extreme climate conditions. The key benefits gained from the utilisation of green roofs across developments in our inner cities include:

SUPPORTS AIR PURIFICATION STORMWATER MANAGEMENT MITIGATION OF URBAN HEAT ISLAND EFFECT IMPROVING EFFICIENCY OF THE BUILDING’S PERFORMANCE INCREASING LOCAL BIODIVERSITY

W: www.egr.co.uk E: info@egr.co.uk T: 01277 355705

32 Roofing & Cladding

he partnership marks the joining of two recognised industry leaders – NFRC, the UK’s largest roofing trade association and NBS, a company rooted in improving industry and compliance through digital data adoption. By working together, NBS and the NFRC will bring vast amounts of information and resources to its members and customers, providing support during the specif ication stage of various building projects. As a leading voice in roof ing developments, NFRC is looking to establish closer links w i t h s p e c i f i e r s by providing them with access to quality technical information and raising awareness of its membership network, ensuring consistent quality specif ications across the construction chain. James Talman, Chief Executive of NFRC commented saying: “Specifiers have a critical role in creating a safer and more sustainable construction industry, and that is why we are delighted to establish developer-update.co.uk

Today, NBS, the leading construction data platform, has announced its partnership with the National Federation of Roofing Contractors Limited (NFRC) to promote standards and guidance within roofing specification to the broader construction industry.

a partnership with NBS. Through this collaboration, specifiers can be assured that NFRC’s wealth of technical knowledge and expertise on roof ing features within NBS’ platforms, will be available to them. In return, NFRC Members can gain exposure through the NBS Source platform and access specialist NBS Webinars. Together we can help specifiers ensure that they are using the highest quality roofing products and contractors.” NBS has a long track record in providing information and tools to the construction industry, and in recent years has transformed into a leading software provider. Both companies also plan to work together on digital events such as webinars and discussion panels to enrich the debate on industry topics and better support customers. B o b R i ch a rd s o n , H ea d o f Technical and Training at NFRC commented saying: “We are pleased to be able to provide NBS with periodic review services and technical knowledge to ensure consistent information is provided

throughout the specif ication p ro ce s s ri g h t t h ro u g h to installation. We also welcome the opportunity to be part of future NBS events and webinars.” NBS conducted 58 different webinars during 2020 on various topics, which were a huge success and attracted over 25,000 registrations. Commenting on the partnership, Sascia Elliott, Head of Partnerships at NBS, said: “NBS is delighted to collaborate with the NFRC and highlight the benef its and importance of specification in the building timeline. It was a natural f it to partner with the NFRC, an organisation that shares a common goal with us to promote standards and guidance in this skilled profession to those in the wider construction industry. By using NBS products and services, specifiers can help guard against risk, increase eff iciency and proactively drive better standards for the benef it of the wider construction community.”

Stunning Oslo hillside home transformation completed with sustainable Kebony wood

Natural and charred finished timber create striking contrast in unique renovation project

e a u t i f u l l y perched on a sloping verdant hillside overlooking the fjord just outside of Oslo, Norway, a stunning family home renovation has now been completed with a striking combination of charred and natural Kebony wood, a global leader in the production of sustainably modified wood. Before the concept of a full home renovation was borne, the original project brief aimed to increase space and partially upgrade the existing home built in 1989. However, developer-update.co.uk

following consultation with architecture f irm, Derlick Architec ts, a total renovation of the p r e - f a b r i c a te d home and new extension was agreed, and the stunning transformation to create the family home began. The original home was upgraded with a clean and modern façade expression, a new roof layout and a more open and functional floorplan, while large glass doors were installed to create a brighter space and improve the connection to the garden, ultimately enhancing the panoramic waterfront views.

While developing the initial project brief, the architects selected Kebony wood for the façade of the original house and the new extension, and to obtain the unique contrast, two different types of Kebony wood were handpicked. The extension was elegantly clad with Kebony character wood, while the main house was wrapped beautifully with charred Kebony Shou Sugi Ban wood to create a dark, rich and distinctive patina. Taking its name from the ancient Japanese art of burning or weathering timber, the charred finish creates a striking contrast between the home and the extension, while complementing the natural and rugged appearance of the natural rural location. Developed in Nor way, Kebony ’s revolutionar y technology is an environmentally friendly process which

special renovation project is a source of great pride for our team. We are particularly pleased with how the home blends with the surrounding landscape, and how the contrast created by using two different types of Kebony wood has provided a unique finish to the home. The renovation has provided the family living here with an increased quality of daily life and they are very happy with the result.”

modif ies sustainably sourced softwoods by heating the wood with furfur yl alcohol - an agricultural by-product. By polymerising the wood’s cell wall, the softwoods perman ently take on the attributes of tropical hardwood including high durability, hardness, and

d i m e n s i o n a l s t a b i l i t y. Kebony’s uniquely natural aesthetic, durability and sustainable credentials were perfectly suited to complete the ambitious home renovation project.

Nina Landbø, International Sales Manager Norway at Kebony added: “We are delighted to see how both the charred Kebony Shou Sugi Ban and Kebony Character wood has combined to create this unique family home in Norway. It will be fantastic to see how the wood evolves and ages with time in this beautiful setting.”

Commenting on the project, Lars E. Kveen, Partner at Derlick Architects said, “This developer-update.co.uk

KERB APPEAL: The most popular exterior house paint colours to help sell a property A house painted grey is most likely to help it sell, according to research.

ainted houses are no longer restricted to the streets of Notting Hill and Primrose Hill. Instagram and interior obsessions mean that painting the exterior of houses has become increasingly popular in recent years.

Classic ‘white’ was second with 11.4k monthly searches, less than half of the searches for ‘grey’. Black was also a popular choice, totting up 8.2k average monthly searches, which also mirrors the darker interior trends of the past few years.

However it could be possible not everyone wants to live in a pastel pink house, so what colour exterior paint is most likely to help sell a property?

Wh en it cam e to m ore adventurous colours, green (3.5k) and red (2.4k) were most popular. Although popular with influencers and instagrammers, pink masonry paint was one of the least popular with only 570 average monthly searches.

These masonry paint colours - a paint designed especially for use on exterior walls - are the most popular in the UK currently, and therefore more likely to sell your home. Research by JustBoilers.com has found the nation’s most popular paint colours for houses. Their research looked at online searches for masonry paint and took into account different brands and shades of each colour. These were the 10 most popular exterior house paint colours: • • • • • • • • • •

Grey: 24,190 monthly searches White: 11,430 monthly searches Black: 8,230 monthly searches Green: 3,530 monthly searches Red: 2,440 monthly searches Cream: 1,810 monthly searches Brown: 1,600 monthly searches Blue: 1,580 monthly searches Pink: 570 monthly searches Yellow: 240 monthly searches

‘Grey’ was the most popular house-paint colour, with just over 24.1k monthly searches. Shades included in this were light, slate, dark, charcoal, gravel and Plymouth. Zoffany’s ‘Paris Grey’ and Farrow & Ball’s ‘Down Pipe’ were some of the most sought after interior colours last year, so the aesthetically pleasing grey tones have now made it to the exterior too. developer-update.co.uk

For someone looking for a new home or looking to paint their exterior, environmental psychologist and wellbeing consultant Lee Chambers told JustBoilers what each colour represents and why they are appealing: “The current colour of trend, grey presents a harmony between the sleek style of black, and the crisp clarity of white. Its modern feel brings an element of kerb appeal, taking off the subdued edge of black and mellowing the clinical aspect of white for a balanced, welcoming appearance and a feeling of security that is enticing in these uncertain times.” “White properties exude that feeling of simplicity and purity which can be appealing to certain characters. It also provides an excellent platform to show additional elements of our personality through a bold door colour. It has the ability to grab attention and it’s fresh and clean ambience is something we can often aspire to.” “Black has always been symbolic of sophistication and luxury, and this is no different when it comes to exterior colours. It promotes a feeling of assurance while conveying a sense of mystery

and intrigue at the characters who reside there. The balance of formality with elegance makes it a popular choice.” “The colour of nature, and the colour we as humans can see the most shades of, the colour green is a popular choice outside of the neutral options. Its appeal is a feeling of grounded serenity amongst our busy lives, and an ambience of being connected to something bigger. With green being representative of growth and new beginnings, it’s a great option for promoting positivity as soon as you enter your property.” “An energetic and passionate colour, red houses certainly are a statement. They often signify an element of power, mixed with an appreciation for tradition. Because red as a colour stimulates humans and draws their attention, it can generate desire from some people while overstimulating others, making it divisive. And it will likely picture the residents as being full of character and emotion.” Co-founder of JustBoilers. com Chris Burls said: “House painting used to be restricted to certain city streets and seaside towns, so it’s interesting to see how popular the trend has become.” “You generally shouldn’t need planning permission for exterior painting. However, if a property is listed or on designated land, there will be additional rules, so it is important to check with the local council. It’s also important to take into account the upkeep involved, as it will require repainting every five to ten years, depending on the material and climate.” Please find the top 12 most popular house paint colours here.

THE IMPORTANCE OF CLEANING EXTERIOR WALLS WITHOUT CAUSING SURFACE DAMAGE Daniel Took, Head of Professional Product Marketing at Kärcher UK explains best-practice cleaning methods for exterior walls and façades.

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When refurbishing exterior walls and façades it is important to ensure that the correct equipment is used, and care is taken to consider the surface material to avoid surface damage. Maintaining exterior walls is a crucial part of retaining or increasing property value and it is important that cleaning is done effectively to enhance value.

Pressure Washing

Cleaning Agents

Most external surfaces can be treated effectively using a hot water high-pressure cleaner, such as Kärcher’s HDS Middle Class range. Their dual ability to clean at high temperatures and provide high-pressure ensures high quality cleaning performance with low water consumption for a controlled cleaning environment.

Cleaning agents can be used alongside hot water highpressure washers, but they should be applied first and washed off at high-pressure after the application time. When selecting which agent to use it is important to consider the surface material.

Hot water is crucial to cleaning external walls as cleaning at a temperature range between 60-80 °C results in a faster breakup of dirt and deposits, allowing for easy removal of materials such as oil, grease, and soot. High-pressure cleaning ensures furth er depth penetration for the removal of moss and lichen’s roots, preventing any regrowth. Steam Cleaning Steam cleaning as part of the secondary steam stage is crucial for intensive cleaning. During this stage the water volume is reduced by half and steam up to 155 °C is discharged. The steam gets between the surface and the dirt particles tackling even stubborn dirt such as paints and bituminous coatings.

When working with natural and artificial stone façades where the surface material can be acid-sensitive, an alkaline cleaning agent must be used to avoid surface damage that can impact the building value and appearance. Acidresistant stone façades (and plaster façades), however, can be effectively treated using a neutral cleaning agent.

Metal façades can too be vulnerable to chemicals therefore a neutral cleaning agent is recommended. Prior to cleaning coated or painted surfaces care should be taken to remove chalking (white stains due to washed out pigments). This can be done manually o r b y u s i n g e le ct ri c , hand-operated polishing machines. Hand-operated machines allow for lowpressure water to flow out through the large opening at the brush preventing water penetration in the insulating layer behind the façade. For special cases where façades are not to be watered too much or water-saving methods are required, particle and dry ice blasting can be used. These are also good alternatives to high-pressure cleaners if no cleaning agents should be used or there is a limit for wastewater volume. Both methods are also appropriate for removing s e v e r e c o n ta m i n a t i o n , including graffiti.

For wooden façades a neutral cleaning agent is ideal although care must be taken to clean with the correct pressure for the correct type of wood. Robust hardwood façades can be cleaned at a pressure of 100 bar and a temperature between 60 °C-80 °C , whilst sensitive timbers, such as larch or spruce, require a pressure of 50 bar.

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CHARCON SHOWCASES HARD LANDSCAPING OFFERING IN NEW DOWNLOADABLE BROCHURE Charcon, the commercial hard landscaping division of Aggregate Industries, has unveiled a new brochure bringing its range of industryleading products and integrated solutions together into one convenient place.

he full-colour, 170-page portfolio can be downloaded straight f rom the Charcon website and has been carefully curated for architects, civil engineers, landscape professionals, housebuilders and contractors working across all areas of the construction industry. The brochure includes in-depth information on all of Charcon’s product ranges – including concrete and natural stone paving, sustainable drainage systems, surface water drainage, kerbing and edging – and features a useful guide for design, installation and maintenance. New products featured in the brochure include H2O Linear Surface Water Drainage and Charcon’s innovative Cycle Kerb and Segregation Unit. developer-update.co.uk

Jamie Baldwin, General Manager for Charcon comments: “We’ve always been very proud of our commitment to innovation, our extensive product portfolio, technical expertise and sustainability credentials – but the launch of our new brochure really celebrates this, bringing our capabilities together into one, accessible place. “Whether it’s a large public realm project or a brand-new educational facility, as a supply partner we can support customers from concept right through to completion. We have unrivalled access to the highest quality raw materials, concrete technology and research teams and this expertise is constantly being channelled into developing new, innovative products. “Now, with the launch of a new brochure, we can showcase all our capabilities side-by-side in an easy-to-digest way to offer even more value to our customers.” The new brochure is available to download from the Charcon website now. For further information, visit www.aggregate.com

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27% Increase in Home Renovation due to Lockdown Effect

earches for home renovations went through the roof in 2020 — and is it any wonder? With nothing to do but stare at their walls all day, consumers have been flocking online to discover how to add a lick of paint or change a few tiles. It’s clear the COVID lockdown has been a boon for DIY and home renovations, but by how much? In this article, we look at the statistics for home renovations searches in 2020.

Decking Google Trends shows a 76% increase in search volume for ‘Decking’ in 2020 compared to 2019. 2020 showed us how important it is to have a dedicated seating area in your garden. With a little bit of timber, you too can make yourselves a beautiful garden decking, no matter the shape or size of your garden.

Patio Google Trends shows a 67% increase in search volume for ‘Patio’ in 2020 compared to 2019. Building a patio is perhaps a little more advanced than building a garden decking, but the search volume indicates that many homeowners have been up to the task. Garden patios are a great way to brighten up your garden. They can be made in a variety of colours and designs and can fit gardens of various shapes and sizes.

Driveways Google Trends shows a 12% increase in search volume for ‘Driveways’ in 2020 compared to 2019. Homeowners have been spending less time driving and more time on their driveway. Resurfacing your driveway or installing a brand new one is a great way to improve the overall appearance of your home. There are various types of driveways to choose from, including asphalt, stone and even pattern-imprinted driveways.

Loft conversion Google Trends shows a 12% increase in search volume for ‘Loft Conversion’ in 2020 compared to 2019.

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We’ve seen more of the inside of our homes than anywhere else in the past year. If, like many of the homeowners in 2020, you’ve become sick of seeing the same few rooms over and over, why not make another? A loft conversion is ideal for transforming a dusty storage loft into a fully functioning room. It’s the perfect space for a new bedroom, bathroom or even a new off ice — because who knows how long we could be working from home for?

Home extensions Google Trends shows a 60% increase in search volume for ‘Home Extensions’ in 2020 compared to 2019. Why not go one step further and add an entire extension to your home? A whopping 60% increase in search volume indicates that homes up and down the country have had or will be getting newly built extensions. Not only will a home extension give you more space and f reedom, but organising and decorating your new room/s will keep you occupied for the remainder of lockdown and beyond.

Garage Conversions Google Trends shows a 25% increase in search volume for ‘Garage Conversions’ in 2020 compared to 2019. With working f rom home becoming the new normal, more and more people are investing in a dedicated home-office space. Garage conversions are a popular solution, as they enable you to keep your work life and home life separate.

Garden Shed Google Trends shows a 70% increase in search volume for ‘Garden Shed’ in 2020 compared to 2019. Though garage conversions are a great way to create a dedicated office space, the project can often take too long or be too expensive to be of worth. It’s no wonder then that so many people have been looking into converting their

garden shed instead. Creating an office in your garden shed is another great way to separate your work life f rom your home life. And with a lick of paint and a few decorative touches, your plain garden shed can become a hub for creativity.

Garage Doors Google Trends shows a 3% decrease in search volume for ‘Garage Doors’ in 2020 compared to 2019. Not everything was up in 2020. Turns out garage doors weren’t a priority for a lot of people, but that’s okay - with less time driving comes less time looking at your garage doors. Perhaps 2021 is the year of the garage door. You could get a brand new one, or just spruce it up with a lick of paint. A simple change can have a big impact on the overall aesthetic and kerb appeal of your home.

Total In total, there has been a 27% increase in search volume for home renovations in 2020 compared to 2019. 2020 has shown us how important it can be to have a nice, comfortable and functional home and garden. While loft conversions, garage conversions and home extensions are big under takings, anyone can improve their home with just a little bit of DIY. All you need are the right tools, and we know exactly where to find them.

About Hitchcock & King For over 50 years, Hitchcock & King has been supplying a range of building and decorating materials to customers throughout London. In that time, we’ve made a name for ourselves as trusted suppliers of a huge variety of products. So whether you need paints and brushes, bricks and plasterboard or roof slates and sheets, we’ve got it all.

Tools & Equpiment 43

Snickers Workwear Stretch Shorts – For Street-Smart Comfort This Summer Brand NEW Men’s and Women’s Work Shorts for the flexible working environment - designed for superior comfort and freedom of movement.

n i c ke r s Wo r kwea r takes personal wele wear is streets ahead of anything else.

Combining 4-way stretch fabric that delivers working comfort all day with street-smart, slimf it designs, Snickers Work Shorts are great for grafting in the warmer months. These lightweight garments feature a body-mapping design and are made from a self-ventilating stretch fabric with CORDURA® reinforcements for durability all-round mobility when you need it most. The Men’s F L E XI Wo r k lightweight work shorts come with flexible gusset seams and also have easyto-access holster pockets with zip compartments, an expandable stretch cargo pocket and a ruler pocket. The AllroundWork Women’s multi-purpose, slim-fit shorts have 4-way stretch panels in the right places for consistent comfort, practical pockets for optimal functionality and great freedom of movement. For professional tradesmen and women who rely on their gear in demanding environments, they’re a must for those who want the ultimate in cool comfort this summer.

Getting more information on the Snickers Workwear clothing range is easy. You can call the Helpline on 01484 854788; check out www.snickersworkwear.co.uk and download a digital catalogue or email sales@hultaforsgroup.co.uk developer-update.co.uk

44 Tools & Equpiment

SEISMIC SAVINGS IN BLAST PROTECTION Seismic activity may be rare in the UK, but many buildings and critical infrastructure need to be protected from blasts. The cost of specialised equipment capable of withstanding the forces and violent movement caused by seismic and blast activity can be extortionate. However, there is an alternative, more efficient way of providing this blast protection than the traditionally expensive ‘ruggedisation’ method. Here, Adam Fox, director of vibration control specialist Mason UK, explains how you can provide effective blast protection in projects, including where vibration isolation is also required. Say ‘seismic activity’ in the UK and you might just think of a few damaged chimney pots. Yet while genuine seismic activity might be rare, the engineering expertise that is used to protect buildings from seismic activity still has relevant applications. Bomb blasts or terrorist activity can subject buildings and critical inf rastructure to what is euphemistically referred to as ‘accidental loads.’ Faced with these accidental loads, buildings need to remain viable. They must remain stable enough for people to evacuate and firefighters to enter if needed. You also want to avoid the ventilation or water supply being taken out by the blast. Consequences like these could be disastrous, especially in military installations or for critical infrastructure like power stations. Engineers therefore design buildings with these criteria in mind. The basic engineering principles were set out in the International Building Code that was designed with the help of our big brother across the pond, Mason Industries, in the 1970s. I n m a n y c o n ve n t i o n a l buildings the volume of steel and concrete provides developer-update.co.uk

sufficient blast protection, but in situations where you need to introduce a structural break for vibration isolation reasons, you require a different level of engineering expertise. For example, let’s say you have a building that is mounted on a series of columns and is near a trainline. You might place one of our bearings on top of the column, to protect the building f rom the vibration caused by the train. Suddenly, you have a soft connection between the column and the structure it is supporting. So how do you make sure the column is fit to withstand the accidental loads referred to before? In these situations, where vibration isolation meets blast protection requirements, there are two solutions. The more simple, traditional approach is to apply heavy restraints which can be seriously expensive and if poorly designed can easily negate the benef it of the vibration control measures It is more eff icient for cost and performance to design a connection that respects both. Ensuring building services remain operational can keep a building running. Expensive ‘ruggedised’ plant equipment

can cope with forces but the smarter, far cheaper engineering solution would involve combing anti-vibration mounts with inbuilt restraints. The former provides general vibration isolation but will also reduce any forces from a blast or accidental load down to levels that standard, off the shelf equipment can withstand. You can view this equipment in action on our YouTube channel, where we show spring mounts with seismic restraints cushioning a pump and motor. It may look violent but the goal is to reduce forces down to less than the equipment would see when being shipped to site. We have worked on many projects for the military and government, as well as for buildings whose function just cannot be interrupted for repairs. We worked to provide a holistic engineering solution, ensuring the entire system was designed to withstand accidental loads and protect critical infrastructure. If you need to introduce structural breaks for vibration isolation, or need to meet blast protection criteria, you face a problem. However, the problem is not that we lack a viable engineering solution in these situations. The problem is, so many developers, architects and engineers are simply not aware that this kind of engineering solution is available and therefore fork out extortionate sums on ruggedization and extra testing. Mason UK is a vibration isolation specialist with extensive expertise i n s e i s m i c e n g i n e e r i n g . To discover how their products and engineering can assist your projects, visit mason-uk.co.uk, email info@masonuk.co.uk or call (01252) 716610.

Tools & Equpiment 45

LEICA GEOSYSTEMS ANNOUNCES BLK3D UPDATE Leica BLK3D - the in-picture measurement solution

Iridiondetri publibem trae conu ca; no. Opiessa iam auture tres horum patil vis acressena, ternum enatiam facit. – Leica Geosystems, part of Hexagon, today announced the Leica BLK3D update. The new handheld imager has doubled its operating range and in-picture measurement accuracy for many indoor and outdoor applications, such as exterior building measurements for scaffoldin g, fa ça de, roofing, and architecture projects. The BLK3D users can capture façades of fourstorey buildings with centimetre accuracy in seconds. In addition, users benefit from new guidance and accuracy

indication features that allow them to optimise the capturing process to achieve highest measurement accuracy. This is achieved by significantly enhancing BLK3D image processing algorithms a l o n g s i d e wo rk f l ow adaptation which allows for capturing multi-shots with up to 4 shots. The BLK3D Update is rolled out with the new BLK3D Mobile and Desktop software version 3.0. THE SIMPLEST STEP INTO DIGITALISATION

created and shared on mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets for project teams to make the right decisions at the right time. “Detailed project documentation, team collaboration and remote decision making are just a few of the needed abilities for today’s professionals across a wide variety of industries,” said Tobias Heller, senior product manager for Leica BLK3D. “In developing the latest version of the software, these needs were our focus. We designed BLK3D mobile and desktop 3.0 for users starting their journey into digitalisation and digital experts who have already been working in the area for some time. With the increased accuracy, longer range and added functionality, the BLK3D is for anyone who is looking to make their work more efficient, effective and productive.”

leica-geosystems.com

BLK3D with Publisher license enables seamless collaboration among teams with increased accessibility to published 3D images through the cloud. Therefore, measurements can be developer-update.co.uk

46 Tools & Equpiment It’s 2002 and husband-and-wife team Kevin and Lorraine Bellamy need a van with which to launch their new business venture, one that will take them all over the UK in safety and style, and can be depended upon to perform efficiently and reliably in all weathers. After much research and investigation, they choose a Mercedes-Benz Vito.

ast forward 18 years, and that decision has been vindicated many times over. Today, Bellamy Surveying and Consultancy Services Ltd runs four vans – like every vehicle the company has purchased since it opened for business, all are by Mercedes-Benz.

inspections through to asbestos management and project removal consultancy, while also delivering training workshops, ‘tool box’ talks and lectures on the subjects of Health and Safety, dealing with asbestos, and statutory regulations and codes of practice.

“ That f irst Vito was just fantastic,” recalled Kevin, “It looked great, was lovely to drive, and never let us down. It was a sound investment, too – not only were the running costs low, but the van also retained a high value when we came to trade it in.”

As Bellamy Surveying and Consultancy Services has evolved and expanded, and demand for its services has grown, so it has taken on vans f rom the other Mercedes-Benz model lines, to fulfil a variety of roles across all sectors. Now working alongside its mid-sized Vito Crew Van and Vito Sport are a Citan and Sprinter.

Bellamy Surveying and Consultancy Services is based in Chelmsford, Essex, and specialises in the surveying and identification of hazardous materials like asbestos. It works alongside and consults with main building and demolition contractors, NHS Trust providers, retail and facilities management customers, local authorities, and major hotel and theatre groups across the UK to investigate and manage the health and safety hazard of asbestos in buildings undergoing refurbishment or demolition. The company provides ‘endto-end’ asbestos management solutions, f rom sur veying

“The breadth of the MercedesBenz Vans range means we can choose the most appropriate vehicles for specif ic purposes,” explained Kevin. “Since we started the business we have relied upon our personal, pragmatic approach, as well as the quality of our work, to build up strong business relationships, some of which go back many years. “Our private and public sector clients know that our qualified building and asbestos surveyors can always be relied upon to deliver, and the same is true of our Mercedes-Benz vans.”

AFTER 18 SU VANS ARE ST Supplied by Mercedes Benz Dartford, the Sprinter is the most recent arrival. A 3.5-tonne 314 CDI variant with standard H1 roof and medium-length L2 body, it is used to carry hazardous materials and surveying tools. A factory f itted tow bar means it can also pull a trailer-mounted scissor-lift access platform. The Sprinter’s economical 140 hp, 2.1-litre engine drives the rear wheels – front- and all-wheel drive Sprinters are also available. Like all Mercedes-Benz vans it came with a class-leading safety armoury as well as a three-year, unlimited mileage warranty and MobiloVan assistance package, which includes f ree 24-hour breakdown cover. Designed to ‘work hard and play hard’, the dynamically styled Vito 119 CDI Sport is assigned to Lead Surveyor Jack Stringer, who visits sites all over the country. The Vito Sport’s range-topping 2.1-litre twinturbo diesel engine delivers punchy, 190 hp performance, and is paired

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Tools & Equpiment 47

UCCESSFUL YEARS MERCEDES-BENZ TILL GETTING BELLAMY’S VOTE as standard with a slick-shifting 7G-Tronic seven-speed automatic transmission. The 140 hp Mercedes Benz Vito 114 CDI and 90 hp Citan 109 CDI both have second rows of seats, so each can carry up to five members of the Bellamy team for work on complex assignments. They also retain practical cargo areas for carrying tools and equipment. A tow bar fitted to the Vito allows it to tow a trailer and additional access equipment. The Citan is the smallest member of the Mercedes-Benz Vans and is impressively fuel-efficient – research by one of the country’s best-known f inancial services comparison websites recently concluded that it will travel 831 miles on a single tank, 123 miles further than its nearest rival. Bellamy’s 109 CDI model returns 65.7 mpg (combined cycle). It is used primarily by surveyors to attend appointments and travel

to and from survey sites, either locally or in central London, where its smaller footprint is an advantage on narrow streets or in busy traffic. “Our Mercedes-Benz vans have always been reliable, comfortable and extremely costeffective to operate, f rom day one,” added Mr Bellamy. “Given our Duty of Care to employees

and, indeed, other road users, we’re also reassured by the manufacturer’s long-established leadership in the field of safety. The three-pointed star is also a recognised symbol of quality and underpins our own commitment to the highest levels of customer service.” www.bellamyasbestos.co.uk

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SMARTROOF LAUNCHES SMARTMOVE CHALLENGE 2021

Smartroof is delighted to launch the Smartmove Challenge 2021 as a fun way to boost the physical and mental wellbeing of its staff, suppliers and customers, win prizes and raise funds to support the mental health charity Mind.

t a time when our health and wellbeing has never been more important, the six month Smartmove Challenge hopes to get people moving for a healthier mind and body, whilst at the time raising much needed funds for the charity Mind, which provides support and advice for anyone experiencing mental health problems. Set to start on 1st April and end on 30th September 2021, the Smartmove Challenge comprises three activities – walking, cycling and running – with participants submitting their completed miles. Smartroof has a set a collective participant target of 250,000 miles in six months after which the company will donate £2500

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to Mind. Its parent company The Keystone Group has committed to match the donation. Commenting on the challenge, Kevin Sherlock of Smartroof said: “We are hoping the launch of Smartmove Challenge will motivate people to make meaningful and lasting changes to their health. The challenge will also raise vital funds to help Mind, a charity at the frontline of people’s mental health.” A monthly prize giveaway of an Apple SE Watch is on offer and a Smartroof Challenge 2021 certif icate will be awarded to participants who complete a challenge for six consecutive months.

Participants who sign up to the Smartmove Challenge will receive a branded sports towel, snood, water bottle and drawstring bag to use while enjoying all the benefits of increased activity. Mind helps the one in four people in the UK that experience a mental health problem every year. The money raised will fund their vital work including the Mind Infoline, advice services and the campaigning Mind does. To find out more or to sign up click Smartmove Challenge or contact: info@smartroof.co.uk

DOUBLE SIDED, ACID ETCHED DECORATIVE GLASS We are pleased to announce this new product coming into stock during April

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