Northern Builder Magazine Issue 27-2 April 2016

F CO RE PY E

INSIDE

THIS ISSUE:

leading magazine for Northern Ireland’s building professionals Celebrating Over 25Years The

n Octabuild winners n Skillbuild NI Finals n Timber n Floors and Flooring

Vol 27 No 2 2016

On the waterfront Thornton Roofing celebrates 50 years of excellence with Waterfront Hall project

CLADDING BY

www.thorntonroofing.com

we’ve got it covered!

FS570760

EMS611077

OHS623892

3 3 Environment Health & Safety 3 Quality

bringing european innovation

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Smet Building Products Ltd 28 Castleowen | Newry | Co. Down | BT34 1GF | Northern Ireland T: +44 (0) 28 3082 5970 | F: +44 (0) 28 3025 2777 | E: info@smetbuildingproducts.com www.smetbuildingproducts.com or www.smet.ie

northern builder

Contents...

8

Issue 27-2 - MARCH/ARPIL 2016

Industry latest

Feature highlights

8-9

23

Reopening of JP Corry, L’Derry branch packs a punch

15-21 Cover story - Thornton

Roofing celebrates 50 years in business

29-34 Flooring 37

Learn about the latest project leads with CIS Services

24 New FMB NI Director focuses

on building partnerships with members

41-63

All the winners at this year’s Octabuild Builders’ Merchants Awards

26-27

Creative solutions with Ecophon’s Akusto One

39

Tennants Building Products launches new website

65-71 Project profile – Bishop’s

Gate Hotel, Derry- Londonderry

40 Meet the Gyproc and Isover team

40

CIOB insight into client side project management

79-85

Project profile – Knockevin Special School, Dundrum

95-101 Timber

74

A higher level of service from MB Hire

103-108 Project profile – Mencap Centre, Belfast

90-91

Straightforward service from Suspended Ceilings Supplies

110-115 Apprentices shine at annual

Skillbuild NI Finals

56 News and Views 4

Construction professionals mark major milestone at Stormont

6

Finance Minister visits Enniskillen Heritage Centre

10

Marcon completes Air Museum

12

Work begins on new Titanic Hotel in Belfast

64 New patrons offer support to the CEF

111

THE TEAM: Managing Director Karen McAvoy | Advertising Mairead Hendry Managing Editor Print & Digital Adam Hassin Editorial Diane Day | Editorial Denise Maguire Head Designer Julie Anne Guiney | Design & Digital Jo Wilson Accounts Michelle Owens | Business Support Gemma Sheppard Photography Gordon McAvoy | Printed by W&G Baird

CONTACT US: The Forge, 13b Lisburn Road, Moira BT67 0JR T: Moira: 028 9261 2990 T: Dublin: 01 696 8319 E: northernbuilder@kmpltd.co.uk www.northernbuilder.co.uk

Follow us on: northern builder magazine @BUILDERMAG

With reference to the Misdescriptions Act, please note that the measurements and artist’s impressions within are for illustrative purposes only and may not be accurate. Reproduction of whole or in part of this publication, without prior permission from Karen McAvoy Publishing Ltd, is strictly prohibited.

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

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NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 3

news

Creagh Concrete signs contract in Scotland

First Minister, Arlene Foster and Finance, Minister Mervyn Storey (left) celebrate the 100th meeting of the Construction Industry Professionals Council at Stormont with, (from left), Kevin McShane, Chairman, CIGNI Professionals Council; and Stephen Kane, CIGNI Chairman.

Construction professionals mark major milestone at Stormont According to CIGNI PC Chairman Kevin McShane, the sector is facing a skills shortage of young construction professionals due to the mass exodus of graduates seeking employment elsewhere during the recession.

The chairman was speaking at the 100th meeting of the Professionals Council, which was marked by a special event at Parliament Buildings Stormont recently, in the presence of First Minister Arlene Foster; Finance Minister, Meryn Storey; and Patsy McGlone, Chairman of the All Party Group on Construction.

“The Council was stepping up its collaboration with education providers to help deliver the next

generation of professionals, including through apprenticeships,” said Kevin McShane. “With every £1 invested in construction generating £2.84 in economic activity, our sector is a valuable contributor to economic recovery. We welcome the opportunities presented in the flagship projects and developments announced by the Executive to stimulate the sector, such as the first regional mother and children’s hospital; the A6 road and the Newbuildings to Strabane section of the A5 road; investment in Belfast Rapid Transport; and Belfast Transport Hub.” For more information, visit the website, www.cigni.co.uk

Ted Sloan, JP Corry Tennent Street Branch Manager, (left) with members from Ligoniel Healthy Living Centre after a generous donation of protective equipment.

Generous donation from JP Corry Ligoniel Healthy Living Centre have been boosted by JP Corry with a generous donation of protective equipment. JP Corry’s Tennent Street branch supplied the Ligoniel group with a range of gear including wetsuits, jackets and high-visibility equipment, which will help the group undertake a number of environmental improvements to protect, preserve and maintain the local area.

The offering will consequently allow the Centre to expand on the number of projects developed, allowing more people to benefit from its work.

Ted Sloan, JP Corry Tennent Street Branch Manager, was thrilled to be able to support the group saying, “We are happy to help where possible, particularly in local community projects which helps kids of all ages and abilities.”

For more information visit www.jpcorry.com or contact us on 028 9024 3661.

4 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

Creagh Concrete recently announced a major contract with Dounreay Site Restoration Limited, worth up to £27million.

The contract, to supply concrete containers for the storage of low grade waste from the decommissioning of the Dounreay Nuclear Power Station, will run until 2023.

The firm has several specialist divisions working within each sector of the construction industry in Northern Ireland, Scotland and across the UK and the Republic of Ireland. It employs 650 full-time staff and sub-contractors across its seven locations, with Scotland proving to be a region of particular success, employing 130 people. Last year alone, Creagh Concrete created over 100 new jobs in Northern Ireland. The firm has won a range of contracts across Scotland and will create a further 30 new jobs as part of its Spantherm/ Homespan manufacturing plant in Edinburgh.

Creagh Concrete recently completed a £2million contract to build 77 apartments in Aberdeen on behalf of Barratt Homes, as well as a £12million contract to build 250 apartments for Dandara, again in Aberdeen.

For more information, telephone 028 7965 0500 or visit www.creaghconcrete.co.uk

Ballymena man wins £1k of Cascade Brett Martin Plumbing & Drainage has announced that Peter Lyttle from Ballymena was the lucky winner of £1000 worth of Cascade, the original cast-iron style rainwater and soil system. The prize was promoted

by JP Corry Building Supplies on its stand at Belfast’s SelfBuild & Improve Your Home Show. Glenn Goodman, Brett Martin’s Sales Manager, presented Peter with his presentation cheque at his nearest JP Corry branch on Crankill Road, Ballymena.

For more information, visit www.brettmartin.com

Peter Lyttle is presented with his prize by Aaron Gordon, Branch Manager, JP Corry and Glenn Goodman Brett Martin’s Plumbing and Drainage Sales Manager.

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news

ChainHR forms alliance with quarrying industry organisation

Finance Minister Mervyn Storey with QMAC Chairperson, Rhona Quinn at Enniskillen Castle.

Finance Minister visits Enniskillen heritage visitor centre Finance Minister, Mervyn Storey has paid a visit to the site of the new £3.6million visitors’ centre at Enniskillen Castle, currently under construction.

The building project involves the development of an external space for hosting various events and activities throughout the year, as well as refurbishment of part of the castle courtyard. Tyrone-based construction firm, QMAC Construction Ltd is the assigned contractor. The Minister met with Rhona Quinn, Chairperson of QMAC and President of the Construction Employers Federation (CEF) NI, who commented, “We were delighted to be able to host the Finance Minister, Mervyn Storey, on

the site of the project at Enniskillen Castle. It was an opportunity for us to demonstrate the significant work that is being undertaken to enhance the offering to visitors. QMAC specialises in heritage and restoration construction across Northern Ireland and we are particularly pleased to be working on a site of such historical significance. The development of this visitors’ centre will help to reinforce Fermanagh as a tourism destination and will see a boost for the local economy as a result.” Construction is due to complete on the project later this year.

For more information, telephone 028 8776 7088 or visit www.qmacconstruction.com

Lagan Construction International completes Gibraltar project early Lagan Construction International, part of the Lagan Construction Group, has completed a runway resurfacing programme at the Royal Air Force Base (RAF) Gibraltar, early and on budget.

Valued at £8million, the project was carried out on behalf of the UK Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO). The four-month contract involved the replacement of some 15,000 tonnes of asphalt and 200 airfield lights. Work was completed during night-time shifts to ensure that the base remained operational throughout.

To complete the resurfacing work, plant and equipment owned by Lagan Construction International was shipped in from the UK, along with aggregates.

Works included the slurry sealing of 200,000m² of the runway strip. Installation of a new pit and duct system was also carried out, including three runway crossings. Temporary airfield ground lighting was installed to facilitate the delivery of the works.

For further information, visit www.laganconstructiongroup

6 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

Linzi Conway (left), and Audrey Murray from ChainHR, with Gordon Best of QPANI.

The organisation representing Northern Ireland’s £620million quarry industry has joined forces with social enterprise ChainHR to offer human resource support, unique to the sector.

The Quarry Products Association NI (QPANI) represents approximately 95% of companies involved in the supply of quarry products to the construction industry, while the quarry products sector employs over 4,200 people across Northern Ireland. Chain HR has already developed an excellent track record within the sector in relation to bespoke HR solutions, including the recruitment of temporary and permanent staff.

For more information, visit www.qpani.org

Student recognised in UK-wide safety awards Ulster University architecture student, James O’Neill has come third in the whole of the UK in a student designer competition for his conceptual design work on a Harley Davidson Centre in Belfast.

The awards are organised by the UK Association for Project Safety (APS) to raise students’ awareness of design risk management. James was commended for the buildability of his design and for the health and safety aspect, particularly the safety of contractors’ employees.

For more information, visit www.aps.org.uk

James O’Neill with (from left), Kevin McShane Chairman of CIGNI Professionals Council, and Finance Minister Mervyn Storey.

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JP Corry Refurbishment

Richard Murray with a signed picture of champion boxer, Carl Frampton, and the man himself!

The newly refurbished JP Corry L’Derry branch.

World champion boxer, Carl Frampton, officially opens refurbished L’Derry branch after £300,000 investment…

Some young fans who took the chance to meet with Carl Frampton at the JP Corry L’Derry reopening.

Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness talking to JP Corry, L’Derry Branch Manager, Bernard Crumlish; and Gary Hunter, JP Corry Regional Director about the extensive redesign of the branch.

JP Corry packs a punch!

J P Corry has again displayed the company’s championship pedigree when world champion boxer Carl Frampton officially opened the refurbished L’Derry branch.

Customers got the chance to meet with Northern Ireland’s new boxing hero who recently defeated Scott Quigg to unify the IBF and WBA super-bantamweight division.

And just like Frampton, JP Corry knows how to pack a punch, with customers at the branch - located at Strand Road – now

enjoying access to a comprehensive range of competitively priced building materials.

The £300,000 investment in the new DIY shop includes an extensive redesign, with the branch now featuring an enhanced, modernised layout and expanded product offering which includes paint, power tools, hardware, workwear and much more.

In addition, the store boasts a purposebuilt doors and floors showroom and

Customers at JP Corry, L’Derry, took the chance to get some memorabilia signed and meet with world champion boxer, Carl Frampton.

8 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

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JP Corry Refurbishment

The new-look branch in L’Derry.

Customers take the chance to try out the new trade counter at JP Corry, L’Derry.

offers paint mixing facilities. Customers can now enjoy a more efficient and convenient shopping experience as a result of the major development.

Bernard Crumlish, JP Corry L’Derry Branch Manager, commented, “The feedback we have received from our customers has been very positive and we are looking forward to building on our success in the North West.”

The opening celebrations took place over three days at the beginning of April and included a range of prize giveaways such as Autumn International rugby match tickets, an overnight stay for two at the Roe Park Resort, £100 worth of Love2Shop vouchers, and lots more. A number of key suppliers were also onsite during the event to offer expert advice.

For more information, visit the refurbished branch at 177 Strand Road, L’Derry, telephone 028 7136 6800 or visit www.jpcorry.com

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World champion boxer, Carl Frampton, and Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness officially open the new JP Corry L’Derry branch assisted by (from left) Bernard Crumlish, Branch Manager; Ciaran McConnell, Managing Director; and Gary Hunter, Regional Director.

NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 9

news

Photo courtesy of IWM.

(l-r) Martin McErlean, Heritage Contracts Manager, Marcon; Eilish McGuinness, Director of Operations, Heritage Lottery Fund; Jenny Cousins, Project Manager, IWM Duxford; and Mark O’Connor, Director, Marcon.

Gilbert-Ash completes two London projects worth £44million Gilbert-Ash has completed construction on two major projects in London, worth a combined total of more than £44million.

The Fetal Medicine Research Institute involved the partial demolition and refurbishment of existing terrace houses on the site, while retaining the front façade. Behind the houses, the new three-storey medical centre with two-storey basement was constructed and connected to the refurbished and structurally altered houses. On Savoy Place, GilbertAsh has also completed the headquarters of the Institution of Engineering &Technology.

For more information, telephone 028 9066 4334 or visit www.gilbert-ash.com

Marcon completes Air Museum and wins award from McDonald’s Marcon has completed a major contract at the American Air Museum at IWM Duxford, Cambridge.

The firm completed all of the museum setwork displays, graphics, and interactive exhibits, and coordinated the installation of the integrated audio-visual hardware and display cases.

Marcon’s specialist joinery workshop also manufactured free-standing ‘narrative islands’ that contain graphic and digital interactives.

The £3million project included the creation of three feature displays containing steel girders from the World Trade Centre, a section of the Berlin Wall, and a 20ft long flag of the United States of America.

The company also recently won the UK Supplier of the Year Award from global restaurant chain, McDonald’s.

Marcon was selected as ‘Supplier of the Year’ from the entire McDonald’s procurement chain. Working with McDonald’s since 2008, Marcon has completed projects the length and breadth of the UK, working on over 250 individual projects from Greenock to Southampton, and Omagh to King’s Lynn. Due to the exceptional standard of project delivery by Marcon, the company has secured future contracts with McDonald’s up to 2018.

For more information, telephone 028 9446 1222 or visit www.marconfitout.com

SMET continues to innovate SMET is delighted to announce the launch of its new online shop specially designed for professional builders.

It’s a clear, user-friendly, secure site with quick delivery, enabling UK and Republic of Ireland contractors to purchase a range of quality building products specifically for floor screed, rendering and plastering work.

Along with a unique range of quality, German-made tools and accessories, this will ensure your job has a superior finish. If you’re a professional screed, render or plastering contractor.

Visit the new online shop at www.shop.smetbuildingproducts.com

10 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

The Fetal Medicine Research Institute, London.

Construction body publishes manifesto The Specialist Engineering Contractors’ (SEC) Group Northern Ireland, which represents the largest sector (by value) in Northern Ireland construction, has published its manifesto ahead of the May election.

The majority of firms in the sector are small businesses involved in electrical, mechanical and plumbing installation and maintenance, lift installation and maintenance and steel fabrication.

Speaking on behalf of the SEC, Alfie Watterson, said, “The overriding priority for the next Northern Ireland Executive, as far as construction is concerned, is to put in place effective measures to ensure that SMEs have cash flow security.”

SEC Group Northern Ireland will be urging the new Executive to mandate the use of project bank accounts across all public sector works. This will enable payments to suppliers to be channelled through a ring-fenced account. Additionally the Group will be seeking regulations to ring-fence cash retentions.

Over £50million of cash retentions are withheld from small firms involved in public sector construction in Northern Ireland. These monies – ostensibly security against the possibility of defects – are currently used to bolster the working capital of public bodies and tier 1 contractors.

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AL IN G G RI A O B

SAME GREAT QUALITY COOKSTOWN CEMENT. IN A BRAND NEW BAG.

AND NOW EVEN STRONGER - 42,5 N For more information, please call 028 8676 7281 or visit www.lafargecement.co.uk

news

rail project is perfect platform for AG

Pictured in one of the iconic Drawing Offices are James Eyre, Titanic Quarter’s Commercial Director; Kerrie Sweeney, Titanic Foundation’s CEO; Angela Lavin, Heritage & Lottery Fund; and Northern Ireland’s Enterprise Minister, Jonathan Bell.

Work begins on world’s most authentic Titanic hotel Abercorn Construction has started work to fully restore the former Harland & Wolff Headquarters Building and Drawing Offices in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter.

The iconic buildings will include a new boutique hotel and public heritage space, designed by project architect, Robinson McIlwaine Architects LLP (RMI Architects). The development of the four-storey, 84-bedroom hotel is being managed by Titanic Quarter Ltd and will be the world’s most authentic Titanic-themed hotel. Both projects are due to open in 2017, creating 100 new jobs.

In its heyday, Harland & Wolff’s headquarters accommodated 500 workers, including Thomas Andrews

and Lord Pirrie, who were part of the company’s famous management team. As a listed building, all redevelopment work will maintain the building’s character and appearance and safeguard its special architectural interest. Kerrie Sweeney, Chief Executive of Titanic Foundation, said, “Thanks to the support from Heritage Lottery Fund and the partnership between ourselves and Titanic Quarter Ltd, we have the opportunity to bring the buildings back to their former glory. This will give the public the opportunity to experience over a century of innovation and exceptional craftsmanship, and allow the redevelopment of the rest of the building into a unique hotel.”

Portview Fit-Out completes work at new London art gallery Luxury retail fit-out specialist, Portview Fit-Out has recently completed work on a new gallery for art dealer, Philip Mould in London’s historic Pall Mall. The 557sqm space, over three floors, was designed by Edward Bulmer, and was managed over a 12-week timescale by Leckenby Associates.

Simon Campbell, Managing Director, Portview Fit-Out, commented, “Our focus was to ensure the best possible location for a new stairwell to be cut through the building. The end result is a great success with its beautiful travertine stone wall cascading from ground floor ceiling to the basement floor, drawing the eye through the space.”

For more information, telephone 028 9064 4765 or visit portview.co.uk

12 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

More than 1,500m² of Acheson & Glover (AG) specialist building products have been laid at the East India Dock Station, Canary Wharf, as part of a major refurbishment project.

Architects D4P selected AG’s 200x150x60mm Riverstone Blackwater, Rectangular 200x100x60mm Crieve Mix, and 200x100x915mm Terrakerbs for the scheme.

The firm also recently shared plans of its capital investment growth strategy for NI, which includes a recruitment drive in 2016 and a new fleet of branded vehicles. The new lorries and trailers signify the second stage of a company process to modernise and overhaul its fleet of vehicles over a 24-month period.

Unique product innovation has also seen AG awarded a specialist education contract in the Republic of Ireland, valued at £60,000. The campus project in Stephenstown, Balbriggan, consists of two-schools: a 1,000-pupil post-primary and a 24-classroom primary school.

For more information, telephone 028 8952 1275 or visit www.acheson-glover.com

Raymond Acheson, AG Managing Director.

Perfectly proportioned winners at RSUA quiz The four-strong team of ‘Acropolis Now’ stormed through to victory in the inaugural Perfectly Proportioned Quiz of Architecture and Other Things held on March 3. Organised by the Royal Society of Ulster Architects (RSUA), in partnership with Architecture at Queen’s University Belfast. The event was a great success, with entertaining and challenging questions laid on by quiz-master Alan Jones.

For more information, visit www.rsua.org.uk

‘Acropolis Now’ quiz winners, Jane Larmour, Pat Wheeler, Deirdre Greaney and Saul Golden.

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Built to last Modular Bespoke Space solution What can you expect?

• 3 coat paint system average 240 microns

• On-board generator • Emergency back-up lighting

• Electrics to regulated standards

Lloyds register

• Remote management via modem control

• Wall covering options (up to food safe standards)

• Life 25 - 50 years with 2 years warranty

• Galvanised insulated floors

• Fire rated 60 mins or 120 mins

• BT and Cat5 data trunking

• Single or double glazed window options

• Oil or electric central heating

• Three types of secure access doors

• 4mm & 2mm steel fully seam welded to

Made to order - Temporary or Permanent Solutions

General Cabins & Engineering Ltd 21-25 Corr Road, Killyman, Dungannon, BT71 6HQ. Tel: +44 (0)28 8774 7566 - Fax: +44 (0)28 8774 6866 Email: info@generalcabins.com

www.generalcabins.com www.generalranges.com

Thornton Roofing associates

Roofing S upplies N I

Everything on top of your BUILDING, under one roof

We would like to congratulate Thornton Roofing on 50 years in business. We wish them every continued success for the future and look forward to working with them further.

• Fabrications • Single Ply Waterproof • Rooflights • Roof Edge Protection • Liquid Waterproofing • Modified Bitumen Membranes • Solar PV • Roof Garden Systems • Insulation

• Product design • Plasma cutting 9metres x 2.5 metres • Steel fabrication up to 10 tonne • Brake press work 250 Tonne x 4.1metres • Tube cutting and profiling up to 406mm dia x 20mm thick • Box section cutting and profiling up to 250mm x 250mm x20mm

Wishing Thornton Roofing every success for the future

Unit 9, M1 Business Park, Kennedy Way Industrial Estate, Belfast BT11 9DT.

028 9030 2924 www.roofingsuppliesni.com

14 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

29 Cargin Road, Toomebridge, Co. Antrim BT41 3NU.

T: 02879650449 | E: info@d-eng.com

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Celebrating YEARS

50

of Thornton satisfaction marking half a century of success of toombridge-based company... g

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NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 15

Company profile - Thornton Roofing

After 50 years in business, Northern Ireland’s leading roofing and cladding company is at the pinnacle of the industry…

Half a century of excellence for Thornton

T

hornton Roofing is a family firm celebrating a half century in business.

However, rather than rest on its laurels, the Toomebridge-based company, which has been to the forefront of the Northern Ireland roofing and cladding sectors for many years, has ambitious growth plans that it believes will take it to the next level.

Established way back in 1965 by the current Managing Director’s parents, James (Jimmy), and Kathleen Thornton, this business has proven its resilience by emerging from the recent recession stronger than ever and is poised to capitalise on a raft of new opportunities that have presented themselves as discerning clients look to companies with a strong track record for delivery and a right-fit skill base.

Managing Director, Stephen Thornton, believes his company is now well positioned

to move forward into its second half century.

“We have been fortunate that we managed to hold on to our skilled workforce during the downturn,” he said. “We firmly believe that our people enable us to stand out in the market. Many of our team have more than 30 years of experience, which gives us access to a lot of know-how.

“As we go forward into our second 50 years, I believe it’s this bedrock of experience that will help us further build our reputation as one of the leading companies of our kind in Ireland and the UK.” Thornton’s burgeoning portfolio of projects incorporates contracts works, small works and maintenance, architectural metal works, and fabrication.

The company’s contract works division undertakes a range of projects in the

commercial, education, leisure, health and residential sectors, including the Kingspan Stadium, Ravenhill; Altnagelvin Area Hospital; Ayrshire College; The Waterfront Conference Centre, Belfast; and Fosse Park Shopping Centre, Leicester.

In the past number of years the scale and complexity of Thornton projects have grown significantly.

“We are now well positioned to take on large scale construction, roofing and cladding projects throughout the UK and Ireland,” Stephen revealed.

“As preferred fitters for Kingspan, Rigidal and Tegral we have the relationships and back-up needed to ensure we can deliver. This is crucial in today’s demanding environment.

“One recent high profile project was at the Waterfront Conference Centre in Belfast, where we used our specialist cladding to

“We are now well positioned to take on large scale construction, roofing and cladding projects throughout the UK and Ireland.”

16 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

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Company profile - Thornton Roofing

WHO WE ARE...

Thornton is actively targeting specialist construction, roofing and cladding work in Britain – like the £2m scheme the company is currently completing at Ayrshire College, Scotland.

help create a whole new look for one of the most iconic buildings in the city.

“This project, which lasted around 12 months and was worth circa £1.4m, incorporated the use of Brett Martin Marlon Click-fix Polycarbonates, Kingspan Benchmark Soffit Cassettes, as well as a range of architectural wall panels.”

As part of its bold expansion plans to invest £8m over the next five years and add 50 new jobs, Thornton is actively targeting specialist construction, roofing and cladding work in Britain – like the £2m scheme the company is currently completing at Ayrshire College, Scotland.

“This was another major project for us,” says Stephen. “Essentially we were tasked with providing value engineering solutions for this prestigious project. We used an Icopal Parabit hot melt system for the roof,to reinforce the ingenuity of the build.

“Continuing to take advantage of the best materials, we used the award-winning CGL rain-screen system for the front entrance and Alucobond panels. We also used our own manufactured architectural metalworks to give the building an outstanding, individual design. We PPC-coated the aluminium secret fix panels for the main façade at our premises.”

Within its small works division, Thornton undertakes new build, repairs and refurbishment projects. In addition, the company offers in-depth roof examinations for insurance purposes and a range of tailored maintenance packages designed around specific client needs and incorporating a 24-hour call-out team dedicated to dealing with emergencies.

Thornton has a strong reputation in architectural metal works too – perhaps made most famous by a project which

featured on Channel 4’s Grand Designs programme, where its expert team built an innovative home made from shipping containers for local man Patrick Bradley.

“Typically, our architectural metal works division produces decorative additions ranging from feature trimming and staircases to balustrades and a range of flashings and other accessories. However, the Grand Designs’ project was a nice one which we actually built from scratch,” said Stephen. “Patrick is a long-standing friend of mine and whilst it was a comparatively small scheme, it certainly created a lot of talk around the country.”

Thornton Roofing’s attention to detail and dedicated staff underpin the company’s position as market leader in its sector. The company boasts the knowledge, expertise and resources necessary to complete any job to the very highest standard. g

Thornton Roofing, 43a Gallagh Road, Toomebridge, BT41 3QU T: 028 7965 0368 – E: info@thorntonroofing.co.uk www.thorntonroofing.com

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NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 17

Thornton Roofing associates

The Belfast Metal Centre To find out more on our extensive range of • Aluminium • Stainless • Copper • Brass • Plastic contact us immediately on

Tel: 028 90 838 838 Fax: 028 90 837 837 Email belfast@aalco.co.uk

Unit 4, Mallusk Way, Blackwater Business Park Newtownabbey, Belfast, BT36 4AA

www.aalco.co.uk

Best wishes and continued success to Thornton Roofing.

Transforming

Exterior Facades Rain screen Cladding Specialists Supplying Innovative Products and Solutions

18 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

Best wishes and continued success to Thornton Roofing from

SPECIALISTS IN FIXINGS AND FASTENERS CMT Supplies Limited, Coes Road Ind Estate, Coes Road, Dundalk, Co Louth.

T: 00353 (0)42 935 3276 F: (0)42 935 3277 E: info@cmtsupplies.ie

T: +44 (0)7554 056930 E: info@swissfacades.com www.swissfacades.com

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Company profile - Thornton Roofing

PROJECTS

Patrick Bradley’s ‘shipping container’ home that featured on Channel 4’s Grand Designs.

Tor Bank School, Castlereagh.

a responsibility that extends beyond high quality projects...

In the community

A

Bangor Aurora Aquatic and Leisure Complex.

Kingspan Stadium, Belfast.

s the pictures on this page demonstrate, Thornton Roofing has worked on an array of projects but, in addition to helping develop leading facilities, the company also takes its responsibilities as a corporate citizen seriously and plays an active role in its local community.

As well as being a major local employer in the Toomebridge area the company has formed a partnership with Charis – a leading local cancer charity. Over the course of this undertaking, Thornton’s 50th anniversary, directors, staff and suppliers will be involved in a range of activities aimed at raising funds for Charis. The new partnership is part of a new Corporate Responsibility programme. g

Antrim Area Hospital Emergency Department.

Ayrshire College, Scotland.

Lagan College, Belfast.

Thornton Roofing, 43a Gallagh Road, Toomebridge, BT41 3QU T: 028 7965 0368 – E: info@thorntonroofing.co.uk www.thorntonroofing.com

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

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NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 19

Thornton Roofing associates

Effective, Efficient and Competitive

Freight Forwarding and Distribution Service.

Macon Bolts & Nuts are proud to supply Thornton Roofing Ireland Ltd with a large range of products.

We work with depots strategically located throughout the UK and Ireland with modern and efficient logistics facilities to allow daily express freight services to and from the UK and Ireland.

Offering everything from parcels, pallets, groupage, Part and Full loads, along with dedicated services we are confident of our abilities to meet our customers’ demands cost effectively and on time. As a small and family orientated company our objective is to attain a standard of excellence combined with a professional service and a personal approach.

OUR AIM IS YOUR GAIN

Contact us

T: 028 94472062 F: 028 94473853 - E: info@targettransport.co.uk www.targettransport.co.uk Online account, quotation, booking and POD facilities available to all customers.

All goods carried subject to our Conditions of Carriage. Copy available upon request.

All the team at Helios IT send their warmest congratulations to Thornton Roofing on reaching their Golden Anniversary.

We are delighted to have been associated with this milestone and look forward to continuing our longstanding successful partnership for many years to come.

“

“

making technology an asset for your busness, not a problem.

5 Altona Road, Blaris Industrial Estate, Lisburn BT27 5QB.

20 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

Stockists and distributors of industrial tools and fastenings and so much more.

T: 028 9062 2034 E: maconbolts@btinternet.com Macon Bolts & Nuts Limited Unit 41A Dunmurray Industrial Estate, The Cutts, Dunmurray, Belfast BT17 9HU

wishes to congratulate Thornton Roofing on 50 successful years in business.

Unit 36 Lisburn Enterprise Centre, Ballinderry Road, Lisburn, BT28 2BP. Telephone: 028 9262 9999 Email: gavin@ct1ltd.com www.ct1ltd.com

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Company profile - Thornton Roofing

People

Family values and a professional approach from a dedicated team…

A passion for quality

Stephen Thornton FIoR

Managing Director Stephen Thornton has spent 35 years in the family business alongside his father and mother, working his way up through the company from site operative to MD. He is responsible for the strategic direction of the business and is currently leading the company’s ambitious expansion programme that will include investment in accommodation, equipment and personnel.

Stephen is passionate about providing employment opportunities for young people and plans to introduce a bespoke apprenticeship programme with specialist roofing training for trainees.

Stephen is married with four children - three boys and a girl - and away from work he loves nothing more than spending time deep sea fishing or watching Ulster Rugby at the Kingspan Stadium, Ravenhill.

Jenny Neeson

Kenny Smyth FCIOB, FIoR

Finance Director

General Manager

Jenny has been trained in accountancy and worked in an accountancy practice prior to joining the company where she succeeded her mother, Kathleen, as Finance Director. She now looks after the finances of the entire company.

Jenny is married with a young child who keeps her busy when not in the office.

She takes particular pride in how the family business survived the major economic downturn and is now well placed to capitalise on a host of new opportunities coming its way in the UK and Ireland.

Kenny Smyth is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Building and a Fellow of the Institute of Roofing.

He has 27 years’ experience across the construction industry, having been a subcontractor, main contractor, client and employee. He has occupied a number of roles ranging from contracts manager to Managing Director during his career.

His current role is to oversee the operations and running of the entire company and report to the Directors. This includes managing a team of contracts managers, monitoring the progress and profitability of several multi-million pound contracts and producing regular update reports for the directors.

Thornton Roofing, 43a Gallagh Road, Toomebridge, BT41 3QU T: 028 7965 0368 – E: info@thorntonroofing.co.uk www.thorntonroofing.com

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NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 21

ciob news

Northern Builder gets to the heart of a management career in construction with a regular insight from the CIOB in Ireland...

Project management that’s on the client’s side FRANCIS FARRELL, COMMITTEE MEMBER, CIOB IN IRELAND – NORTHERN CENTRE – PROVIDES AN INSIGHT into project management...

T

he benefits and the role of project management within the construction phase by contractors is long recognised and well established. However, clients employ project management to a much lesser extent in the pre-construction phase and this is a mistake.

Over the years, many of the recommendations and practices advocated by influential construction-related reports have been adopted and implemented.

Much of the emphasis has been on improving the communication, collaboration and relationship building at the design/ construction interface and further along the sub-contractor/supply chain and upon the clearer identification and allocation of risk in the evolving contract forms.

This is commendable, but we have not witnessed the same degree of emphasis on the pre-construction phase - with the exception of health and safety. Despite the improving outlook for construction and ongoing advances in construction technology, engineering, design and construction management techniques and software, the instances of construction litigation continue to rise. This indicates that, on many projects, clients still do not have a satisfactory experience or outcome.

Generally, all parties to the development process are suitably experienced and assessed. However, many clients may be inexperienced and only ever undertake one development project. Their project may not be significant in scale or monetary value, within the construction sector, but one thing is certain, it is significant to them.

Client needs, be they developer, end user, landlord, tenant or funder, can be difficult to identify, define and prioritise.

The ever-increasing burden of statutory, legal and environmental obligations and quite complex sector specific processes and licencing requirements, due diligence issues, appointment of consultants, managing relationships and gaining consensus with stakeholders and appropriate allocation of risk throughout the procurement process is a significant task.

Client expectations can be better managed by identifying the key components, risk factors, features and issues that should be considered. The nature, type and characteristics of a client and the project will dictate the points of focus and help define the scope, nature and level of any external professional project management assistance required throughout the pre-construction phase.

The setting and prioritising of realistic, achievable objectives with measureable targets are essential requirements in the attainment of successful project outcomes.

The project manager must ensure that client requirements take precedence and that a thorough adequately resourced project investigation, evaluation and analysis is undertaken. The process will improve client decision-making, communication, motivation and productivity across the project team and reduce the likelihood of significant unforeseen impediments, delays and cost overruns. It will also encourage intuitive problem solving, innovative collaborative design practices, transparency and high ethical standards. The client can expect significant hard and soft benefits including cost avoidance and cost savings and the selection of the ‘best solution’. Note ‘best solution’, not the perfect solution.

Whatever the project, it is clear that

appropriate pre-construction client side project management is important and plays an essential role in the pursuit of overall project success. Whether this role is undertaken by the client internally or externally is of lesser importance than ensuring that it is undertaken. What is critical is that the appointed person is capable, experienced and acts with integrity, transparency and independently.

Yet all too often, this very important aspect of project development is not allocated sufficient time or other resources and key elements of this phase are either not considered at all or only receive superficial attention. It is the author’s contention that in the overall development of a project, this is the most critical and economically beneficial stage for the allocation of time, expertise, finance and other appropriate resources to ensure the most cost effective and positive project outcome for the client.

Francis Farrell, BSc Dip Prop Inv MSc FCIOB FRICS is a Fellow of the CIOB and a consultant working across many sectors of the industry, specialising in project management and development surveying. Francis, may be contacted at francis@f-k-a.com

For more information on the CIOB, contact Mandy Coleman on T: 00353 1 236 9851 or E: mcoleman@ciob.org.uk www.ciob.org

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NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 23

FMB NEWS

FMB NI continues to give members the edge and Northern Builder brings you some of the latest developments from the organisation...

Partnership approach from new FMB NI Director New FMB Director, Gavin McGuire, is looking forward to continuing the strong partnership that the Federation of Master Builders enjoys with its members.

Appointed at the beginning of January, Gavin has spent the first few months in his new role trying to speak to as many FMB members in Northern Ireland as he can and he has been more than encouraged by the response.

“I have always thought that the main strength of the FMB is that it is, first and foremost, all about how best to support our members.

We are widely recognised across the UK but we also focus on the very specific needs of the construction industry in Northern Ireland.”

Gavin previously worked with the FMB as a Membership Advisor covering the Antrim and DerryLondonderry areas, so he is already well aware of the benefits of membership. He is also hoping to put his varied experience from working outside the construction industry to good use.

He grew up around his father’s business, Dolphin Plant Hire, from a young age before officially starting work with the company when he was 16-years-old. From there he moved into a number of sales jobs.

Gavin added, “I grew up around builders and the construction industry and that experience is really important but, from my other jobs, I think I have a lot of transferrable skills, all of which are about developing strong customer relations.

“As I go around meeting our members, that is helping me to understand the challenges that our local industry are facing at the

Programme for Government launched FMB Northern Ireland has launched its Programme for Government 2016 to 2020 that signposts the support and policies that need to be put in place to support the construction industry.

The document provides a concise overview of the key policy priorities for decision-makers in Northern Ireland from the perspective of the SME construction sector. Key points include:

New FMB NI Director, Gavin McGuire.

moment and to see how we can offer support. At the moment that includes issues such as the lack of skilled labour and also how so many of our builders working outside of the province is creating new challenges.

“The fact that we can give our members a voice at the highest levels is one of the reasons why I feel it is essential to keep communicating with our members.”

The credibility offered by the FMB brand to home-owners is another important factor and one Gavin is keen to continue to build on.

“The FMB logo is a badge of quality and it offers peace-ofmind to customers. For that reason we don’t just accept anyone as a member. While it is not a particularly complicated process, we have certain standards that companies must meet before they can become a member.”

He added, “By joining the FMB, companies can access a wide range of services. One of the popular recent additions has been the introduction of free online training that allows members to learn at a time that suits them.”

• The need to increase opportunities for skilled employment • Increasing the supply of new homes • Maintaining, improving and cutting carbon emissions from existing homes • Maximising local economic growth through public

procurement • Allowing finance to flow Gavin McGuire, FMB Northern Ireland Director, commented, “We are working hard to give a voice to our members and to highlight to elected and soon-to-be elected politicians just how vital a strong construction industry is to our local economy.

“We have raised a series of issues ahead of May’s Assembly elections and we will be following this up with the newly formed NI Executive and MLAs.”

Special 75th Anniversary Ball FMB Northern Ireland is set to host a black-tie event on December 2 at the Europa Hotel, Belfast, to marks its 75th Anniversary.

The evening will include a sparkling ‘Festive Cocktail’ on arrival for all guests, a four-course festive menu and entertainment.

Tickets are priced at £60 per person or £550 for a table of 10.

Opportunities are also available for companies who would like to sponsor the event.

The 75th Anniversary Ball will replace the annual business event held in December and it is open to both FMB and non-FMB members.

For details on the event, contact Gavin or Louise on 028 9446 0416.

Federation of Master Builders, Unit 10, Kilbegs Business Centre, Plasketts Close, Antrim, BT41 4LY Tel: 028 9446 0416 www.fmb.org.uk - www.findabuilder.co.uk

24 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

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ACOUSTIC ABSORBERS

GET CREATIVE WITH NEW, EASY-TO-INSTALL, WALL-BASED ACOUSTIC ABSORBERS FROM ECOPHON…

Creative solutions with Akusto One

E

cophon has expanded its vertical acoustics offering with the launch of Akusto One, designed to reduce echoes, enhance speech clarity and improve acoustic performance.

Forming part of the Akusto family, this new addition of vertical independent sound absorbers is design-friendly and is available in a range of sizes, shapes and colours. Akusto One is easy to install, and the absorbers are ideal for creating spaces where both exceptional acoustics and aesthetics are required cost-effectively.

Good acoustics are a crucial component of any well-designed interior space, with commercial, educational or healthcare settings all commanding varying acoustic requirements.

The Akusto range – which is made up of Akusto Wall, Akusto Screen and now also

“Akusto One panels are available in circular, rectangular and square-shaped panels of various sizes.”

26 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

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ACOUSTIC ABSORBERS

Good acoustics are a crucial component of any well-designed interior space, with commercial, educational or healthcare settings all commanding varying acoustic requirements.

Akusto One – is designed for flexible placement, making creative potential virtually limitless.

Akusto One panels are available in circular, rectangular and square-shaped panels of various sizes; all are 40mm in depth and are complemented by white or grey painted edges. Using these standard shapes in combination, innovative designs and patterns can be created on the wall, improving both the acoustics and the aesthetics of the space.

Depending on the environment in which the panels are being used, Akusto One can be produced in either a smooth, easily cleaned surface - with colours inspired by nature - or a fabric-textured finish that boasts a more colourful, and recently revised on-trend palette for expressive wall or screen solutions. For

more challenging spaces such as sports facilities, impact-resistant wall panels are also available.

EASY INSTALLATION With the environment in mind, the panels are manufactured from 3rd generation high-density glass wool, with no added formaldehyde and a high recycled content, meeting the strictest indoor climate standards in the world. The wool also meets fire safety demands and has been tested and classified as non-combustible according to EN ISO 1182. Lightweight, yet very robust, the Akusto panels are easy to install using Ecophon’s innovative Connect One accessories, which ensure the panels are mounted perfectly. In addition, Akusto One is a frameless system available with three simple, easy installation methods that

ensure both flexibility and precision.

Commenting on the launch of the Akusto One vertical sound absorbers, Will Jones, Marketing Manager at Ecophon, said, “In addition to the incredible design scope these panels offer, ease of installation is a real plus point to Akusto One. It really is as quick and easy to install as hanging a picture, making the specification of these creatively shaped panels an effective solution from a design, acoustic performance and cost perspective.

“Our well-known ceiling systems and freehanging units are renowned as the perfect recipe for a good acoustic environment.

Akusto One provides that natural complement - and with the new colours offered as part of the revised Akusto family, there really is no better vertical acoustics option.”

Alan Crampton, Regional Manager Ireland, Saint-Gobain Ecophon T: 012 5685 0977 – M: 07979 703421 – E: alan.crampton@ecophon.co.uk www.ecophon.co.uk

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NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 27

industry news

THREE RIBA APPROVED CPDs included in new event that will showcase plumbing, heating, renewables and mechanical solutions for light commercial and commercial projects…

PTS and BSS host combined trade show

A

rchitects, specifiers, consultants, mechanical companies and contractors are invited to find out about the latest developments in the plumbing, heating, renewables and mechanical sectors at the joint PTS and BSS Trade Show.

This event takes place on May 19, 2016 from 12pm-9pm at the new Waterfront Conference Centre, Belfast and also include three RIBA approved CPDs in the seminar area.

PTS is a leading plumbers’ merchant that operates across the UK and Ireland, including six branches in Northern Ireland and one in the Republic of Ireland, while BSS, which operates across the UK and has offices in Belfast and Dublin, is an expert in commercial mechanical solutions.

As both companies are part of the Travis Perkins Group PLC, they can provide a complete solution – as the impressive range over 35 leading manufacturers at the event will showcase.

Barry Lowe, Area Sales Manager at PTS, said, “We are extremely strong in the domestic plumbing, heating and bathroom markets but we have noticed that larger domestic contractors are now getting involved in commercial projects. This event will show that PTS and BSS can offer the complete package for those involved in light commercial and commercial projects.”

The importance of energy saving in commercial buildings is high on the agenda for architects, specifiers and consultants and this will be addressed by BSS, as Declan Small, BSS Branch Manager, explained.

“In some cases the mechanical spend on a commercial project is nearly 50% of the overall budget and it is vital to find the right solution. Our comprehensive product range reflects the specialist nature of the mechanical sector and covers the likes of drainage; heating and hot water; controls, metering and firefighting through to pumps

and pumping equipment; renewable energy solutions; site services; valves and filtration; and water treatment.

“We back this up with our specialist team who cover every stage of the process, starting from quotations and tenders through to delivery direct to site and customer support.”

For more information on the event or details of the three RIBA CPD seminars, contact PTS on 028 9027 1600 or BSS on 028 9078 4000.

Free entry to fabulous prize draw for £2,000 holiday voucher Refreshments Available

JOINT TRADE SHOW Thursday 19th May 2016 | 12pm-9pm | New Extension Waterfront Hall RIBA approved CPD presentations in seminar area

For all Architects, Specifiers, Consultants, Mechanical Companies and Contractors

Engage with leading manufacturers in the light commercial and commercial markets

107-127 Grosvenor Rd, Belfast, BT12 4GT T: 028 9027 1600 36-38 Duncrue Rd, Belfast, BT3 9BP T: 028 9078 7700 Springtown Ind Estate, Derry, BT48 0LY T: 028 7130 6000 1 Ballinderry Bus Pk, Lisburn, BT28 2SA45 T: 028 9263 5330

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Carnbane Bus Pk, Newry, BT35 6QJ T: 028 3083 1340 131 Sligo Rd, Enniskillen, BT74 7JZ T: 028 6632 3888 Unit 1, Block K, Ballymount Ind Est, Dublin 12 T: 00 353 1456 8530

36-38 Duncrue Road, Belfast, BT3 9BP T: 028 9078 4000 White Heather Ind Est, 301 South Circular Rd, Dublin 8 T: 00 353 1416 5100

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flooring & floor finishes

Flooring and Floor Finishes Take a step into our focus on flooring that includes carpet tiles, self-levelling screed, ready-mix screed and tiles... g

Screed | Tiles | Carpet

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NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 29

flooring & floor finishes

UNRIVALLED PERFORMANCE FROM SMET’S LATEST FLOORING SOLUTION, SOPRO RAPIDUR FE 678…

One screed to rule them all...

P

olished-look flooring is widely regarded as the default choice when creating a sleek, cutting-edge ambience indoors. From museums to penthouses, shops and studios to living rooms and kitchens, the hardworking, versatile, polished floor is an undeniably appealing choice - and the trend looks set to continue.

SMET has responded to the demand with the launch of a high-performance, innovative flooring solution. Sopro Rapidur FE 678 is a rapid-set, self-levelling screed, walkable within three hours and ready for tiling in 24 hours. The dry screed can, of course, be finished with the usual plethora of floor coverings but, uniquely, this screed allows the contractor the option to leave it in its natural state, or (the Holy Grail of flooring), grind and polish it to a contemporary

finish. Grinding and polishing this screed creates a compact, visually appealing ‘terrazzo-style’ floor finish. The polishing process smooths the surface revealing the inherent aggregate. This organic look is of great appeal to most clients who want the polished look.

Joris Smet, Director of Smet Building Products Ltd, said, “It’s not often we see a game-changer in this long-established industry. However, our German manufacturing partner, Sopro have really done it this time. The unique properties of this pumpable, rapid-set screed really set it apart. Particularly useful for thin UFH systems, fast-track and tightly scheduled screed laying, the product offers the option of final polishing to a contemporary, visually appealing terrazzo-style surface.”

Rapidur FE 678 Self Levelling Screed is a

polymer-modified, ready-to-use dry mix for the production of rapid-set screeds, allowing early flooring installation. At Grade CT-C25-F5 to DIN EN 13 813, it’s suitable for heated screeds, bonded screeds and unbonded screeds (on separating or insulation layer). It can be used as a base for all types of floor covering (eg ceramic, natural stone, textile and elastic flooring), and is particularly suitable for a wide range of thin-coat heating systems. Conveniently, no extra sand needs to be added on site, and the pumped screed offers excellent workability and hardened mortar properties, thanks to Sopro’s Mikrodur technology.

UNRIVALLED PERFORMANCE Rapidur FE 678 Self Levelling Screed has minimum shrinkage and therefore does not curl. It fully encapsulates the underfloor bringing european innovation

30 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

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flooring & floor finishes

Screed laying at dizzying heights

Tamping the pumpable, flowing screed.

Sopro Rapidur® FE 678 Self Levelling Screed result when dried.

heating pipes, has a high thermal conductivity and can be installed in significantly reduced thicknesses. This allows thicker insulation to be used under the screed, resulting in better thermal insulating values or U-values.

The screed gains heat rapidly and transports heat to the surface of the screed into the air, resulting in an efficient response to room temperature changes.

Thin floating self-levelling screed is more energy efficient, responding quickly to changes in room temperatures. Traditional thick screeds cannot respond as efficiently to, for example, solar gain in the afternoon or when a fireplace is lit in the winter. This ineffective response (heating/cooling) often leads to a room being too hot or too cold, a problem which is eliminated by the application of a superior screed such as Rapidur FE 678.

BENEFITS The main benefits of Rapidur FE 678 are: • Ready for tiling - after approximately 24 hours • Self-levelling • Ready to use - dry mix • For fast-track or tightly scheduled screed laying • Working life: 60-90 minutes • Walkable - after approximately three hours • Ideal for renovation and refurbishment • Suitable for floor heating systems • Pumpable - efficient application on large projects • For indoor use • Extra-low shrinkage • Low-chromate to Regulation 1907/2006 EC, Annex XVII • CE Marked.

The recent refurbishment of the Côte de Nacre Hospital in the French city of Caen necessitated, among other things, the fast and expert performance of complex screed works covering 1,000m² in a high-rise building.

The design team opted for the use of Sopro FE 678 Rapidur self-levelling, rapid-set screed – a high-performance product from the Sopro range.

The ready-to-use dry mix contains special binders and additives for the production of rapid-set cement screeds, allowing early flooring installation.

In addition to its outstanding flow properties, the self-levelling screed also excels with its rapid setting/drying and versatility in terms of coat thickness: 20-70mm for bonded screeds, 35-70mm for unbonded screeds on separating layer, and 35-70mm for floating screeds.

Surfaces produced with Sopro FE 678 are walkable after only around three hours and ready for tiling after approximately 24 hours. Supplied in bags, the flow-applied, rapid-set screed is formulated for low shrinkage, creates a plane surface and offers an ideal solution for refurbishment and renovation contracts.

The screed-laying operations, including all preliminary and follow-up works, were completed within three days – a period substantially shorter than the already tight, seven-day time window specified by the client. All in all, the adopted solution proved a resounding success that was largely achieved through the use of high-performance building chemical products, backed up

by Sopro’s expert design and on-site support.

“Finally, here’s a pumpable, thin, fast-track screed that’s not only quick-drying, but can also be tiled in 24 hours, or covered with your choice of floor finish or polished to a contemporary finish.”

Joris Smet, Director, Smet Building Products.

bringing european innovation

Smet Building Products Ltd | 28 Castleowen | Newry | Co. Down | BT34 1GF | Northern Ireland T: +44 (0) 28 3082 5970 | F: +44 (0) 28 3025 2777 | E: info@smetbuildingproducts.com www.smetbuildingproducts.com or www.smet.ie

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NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 31

flooring & floor finishes

RTU HAS A WELL DESERVED REPUTATION FOR MANUFACTURING HIGH QUALITY MORTAR, CONCRETE, PLASTER AND SCREED…

Make the right choice with RTU W ith over two decades’ experience of producing high quality ready-to-use mortar, ready-to-use plaster, ready-mixed concrete and ready-mixed screed, RTU is a leading provider for many architects, builders and self-builders in Northern Ireland.

Innovation, hard work and integrity are the keys to success for this family-run business. Its advanced, computerised-batching dual plant has the capacity to produce over 90m³ of concrete per hour. RTU is known as a pioneer of ready-to-use mortar, coloured mortar, plaster, Ultraflo® hemihydrate liquid floor screed and Exposa® Decorative Concrete.

The company boasts a skilled and experienced workforce, whose ethos is to strive to deliver the very best in everything they do, and who are committed to understanding and satisfying the needs and expectations of customers. Having achieved the BSI Kitemark, RTU can give assurances on quality, product safety and performance, as well as compliance with the everincreasing tough European regulations.

The RTU product range includes: • Mortar - RTU mortar is delivered to site ready-to-use and is available as an eight or 36-hour retarded mortar, which remains useable for this period. It can be manufactured in over 40 shades of coloured mortar to cater for the ever-increasing assortment of brick and block designs and colours available today.

• Plaster - RTU plastering mortar is a factory-produced plastering mortar for external and internal applications.

Customers can choose from the option of a water-proofing agent for plastering exteriors, or specialist mixes to meet the requirements of any size of project.

Coloured plaster is also available.

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“Innovation, hard work and integrity are the keys to success for this family-run business.”

• Concrete - RTU offers a great variety of mixes to meet the many challenges of modern construction, whether you need fibres, waterproof, foam, air-entertained, pumped or coloured ready-mixed concrete.

• Screed - Conventional, improved drying and fibre-modified floor screeds are manufactured through RTU’s state-of- theart planetary mixing process, providing excellent cement dispersion throughout the mix with zero balling, which ensures a uniform compressive strength throughout.

• Ultraflo® Liquid Screed - This selflevelling liquid floor screed has the benefit that it does not suffer from surface laitance (a scum/dust of material adhering to the top of the screed during the curing process).

• Exposa® Decorative Concrete - An aesthetically pleasing alternative not only to plain concrete but also to traditional paving, asphalt and loose gravel, Exposa® Decorative Concrete offers a durable,

RTU will be exhibiting at this year’s Balmoral Show, 11-13 May. Visit stand GV2 to talk to the team.

slip-resistant finish that is ideal for outdoor surfaces, including driveways, footpaths, promenades, town centres and pedestrian zones.

RTU products are suitable for use on a wide range of building projects, including social housing; large commercial and educational projects (such as Titanic, the Thompson Graving Dock and University of Ulster); residential projects; public healthcare buildings (such as the Belfast City Hospital scanner unit); and large public spaces, like Victoria Park and Castlerock promenade.

RTU recently provided ready-mix mortar for two prestigious Belfast projects - the new exhibition centre at the Waterfront Hall (design architect, Todd); and Mencap’s new Children and Families’ Centre (working with main contractor, Mascott).

For further information, telephone 028 9085 1441, e-mail info@rtu.co.uk or visit the website at www.rtu.co.uk

NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 33

flooring & floor finishes

The ninth product in the Transition collection provides scope for interior designers…

Discover endless possibilities with Merge

M

erge is a stunning new, structured carpet tile from Desso and the latest addition to the Transitions collection.

Embracing movement and creative expression, the Transitions collection consists of nine different carpet tiles, interpreting our transient times through changes in colour, structure and nature. With organic patterns, shimmering yarns and textured piles, the Transition collection adds warmth and definition to any office space.

Merge completes the Transitions collection as the ninth product in the range and features a kaleidoscope of natural colours and textures. It brings an organic feel to indoor spaces by blending two different carpet structures in one tile, transitioning between textures.

Reflecting our changing times, Transitions allows designers to reconnect the interiors with nature. It is particularly suited to commercial office spaces, where the carpet tiles can be used to great effect to create flexible spaces with different areas for working, meeting – and quiet contemplation.

The nine different carpet tiles in the Transitions collection - Fuse, Fields, Pebble, Wave, Dessert, Salt, Rock, Grain and Merge - can be used to build visual design bridges moving from one tone, texture or pattern to another or – equally – to make shapes and forms for customised flooring features.

Merge is available in four neutral tones and in two striking shades of green and blue, offering endless design choices with the option of a made-to-order plank format.

As well as embracing change through its striking design, Merge has also been developed with a strong environmental conscience in-line with the Cradle to Cradle® principles, ensuring that products are positive for the environment and human health and are designed to be recycled in a non-toxic closed loop.

A Tarkett company, Desso is a leading carpet, carpet tiles and sport pitches business, active in more than 100 countries.

Its products are supplied to corporate offices, education, healthcare, government, homes and also hotels, cruise liners, airlines and premier football clubs.

For more information on Desso, visit the website at www.desso.co.uk or call 00353 879045373.

34 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

“The Transitions collection consists of nine different carpet tiles, interpreting our transient times through changes in colour, structure and nature.”

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Lagan Cement

Taking quality to a new level

Bricks

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Cement

SALES OFFICE - 028 9264 7100 www.lagancementproducts.com

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Chimney System s

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Concrete

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Tile

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Sand

project NEWS

Clare Legge, NI Researcher for CIS Ireland, provides a regular insight into the latest projects

Rise in number of major construction projects starting on site

Brick bits

Harland & Wolff headquarters As we enter the second building, while the disused quarter of 2016 there has Bangor Castle Leisure Centre been a surge in major site has been earmarked for a construction projects four-storey, 85-bedroom hotel commencing on site, not least development for Premier Inn. in the social housing sector Progress on educational and which promises further growth medical construction projects this year. includes the appointment of EHA Group is building 106 Plans for a new North Wing at Altnagelvin Hospital. the preferred bidder, JPG social housing units in Bangor O’Hare, for the construction for Choice Housing Ireland. of a community treatment and care centre project The contract will take 24 months to complete at a cost in Newry. in the region of £9.8million. Geda Construction will be The tendering procedure has started for the responsible for a 30-unit social housing development creation of a 144-bed new North Wing building at in Ballycastle for Fold Housing, at an estimated cost of Altnagelvin Hospital in Derry-Londonderry, costing £2.3million. In addition, TAL Ltd has been awarded the £38million. Entering the planning process is the contract for 24 units in a Choice Housing supported proposed development of a £24million state-of-theliving development in Whiteabbey, at an estimated art education facility at the former Erne Hospital cost of £2.9million. Donaghmore Construction is building 16 social housing units at a value of £1.7million site in Enniskillen, County Fermanagh. A £3.5million school and youth club development is starting on at Parkside, Phase 2, Belfast, for Newington Housing. site at St Bronagh’s Primary school in Rostrevor.

The commercial and hospitality sectors are also Ganson UK Limited has secured this contract. buoyant. Work is starting on a £6million office and You can access full details on these and thousands retail complex in Belfast by Karl Asset Management of other key and major construction projects on the Group. Turkington Construction has secured the £5.5million contract to refurbish the Colby House office CIS online database. By signing up to the recently launched free subscription service, you can start building in Belfast for CPD, and O’Hare & McGovern viewing complete descriptions and contact details has started work on the construction of a £13million, of five projects per week, for as long as you like. five-storey office block for US firm Allstate, close to This CIS data was accurate on March 23, 2016.

Central Station in Belfast.

Visit www.cisireland.com for the latest project Abercorn Construction has started site-enabling works updates on these schemes. for the new £27million boutique hotel at the former

The latest Republic of Ireland projects…

Project

COUNTY

PROMOTER

CONTRACT STAGE

Shopping centre refurbishment

Dublin

Cavilli Investments

plans granted

€10m industrial building

Wicklow

Powerscourt Estate

plans granted

€6.4m nursing home extension

Dublin

Protestant Aid

contract awarded

€3.5m food processing facility

Cork

Edward Twomey & Co

on site

€23m apartment/retail

Dublin

Development Securities

plans submitted

€250m mixed use

Dublin

Balark Investments

plans submitted

€19m housing and retail

Kildare

Teresa Monaghan

plans submitted

€550k special educational unit

Meath

St Oliver Post PS

on site

€27m warehouse expansion

Cork

Irish Distillers

on site

€38m residential development

Dublin

Broadcrest Ltd

contract awarded

• A £100million redevelopment plan has been announced for the Kings Hall site in Belfast.

Benmore Healthcare is behind the project for a health and wellbeing centre.

• A public consultation has been opened by Translink on its plans to develop a new 340-space park and ride facility in Portadown.

• A new £21million primary school has been proposed for Dunmurry.

• Applications have been received for select list inclusion for a £12million D3 cruise berth for Belfast Harbour Commissioners.

• Planning approval has been issued for an £18million City Quays hotel development.

Meanwhile the tendering procedure is ongoing for the £12million City Quays multi-storey car park construction.

• Work has started on a £2.7million school extension at St Mary’s Grammar School, Magherafelt.

• Applications have been received for a multidisciplinary design team in regard to £1.5million clubhouse facilities for City of Armagh RFC.

For the latest construction leads, visit www.cisireland.com www.northernbuilder.co.uk

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NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 37

www.tennantsbp.com A brand new look

tennants excellence in building products

Belfast Office: 46 Ravenhill Road Belfast BT6 8EB T: 028 9073 1501 F: 028 9045 0927 E: belfast@tennantsbp.com

www.tennantsbp.com

NEW WEBSITE

Click onto the experts in drywall systems, ceilings, insulation, fire protection acoustics, cladding and facades…

Tennants Building Products launches new website

F

or a company that was originally established in 1797 and is still operating successfully in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland it would be easy for Tennants Building Products to rest on its laurels.

However, the recent relaunch of the company’s website has again proved that Tennants Building Products remains at the cutting edge of the industry.

Given the sheer scale of the product range offered by Tennants Building Products, the new easy-to-use website will give customers more of an insight into the vast array of products offered by this all-Ireland leading distributor.

The updated website focuses on the company’s many strengths – the experience of Tennants Building Products’ staff combined with a choice of products from worldleading manufacturers.

With offices in Belfast and Dublin, Tennants is a specialist in drywall systems, ceilings, insulation, fire protection acoustics, cladding, façades, and medicare, delivering to every corner of Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

Recognised as an expert across these six core areas, the company has developed an envious, and largely exclusive, portfolio of products for both the specialist and traditional contractor.

Scot McNeily, Business Manager at Tennants Building Products, Belfast, explained, “The updated website keeps us at the cutting edge of the industry and reinforces the strength of the Tennants Building Products’ brand.

“Many people actually don’t realise the extent of our product range, so the relaunch of our website will help with that. We have clearly defined our areas of expertise as well as detailing the wide array of manufacturers that we represent meaning customers - and potential customers - are just a click away from accessing our vast range. ”

“The updated website focuses on the company’s many strengths – the experience of Tennants Building Products’ staff combined with a choice of products from world-leading manufacturers.”

Perfectly complementing this product range are the strong relationships with manufacturers and the technical expertise offered by staff.

Tennants Building Products boasts successful partnerships with leading industry names, while the company is also able to offer extensive technical expertise that covers the specification and performance of the vast product range.

The fact that Tennants Building Products operates on an all-Ireland basis is another key attribute that is proving an advantage to customers. With offices in both Belfast and Dublin, the company offers delivery to every corner of the island – both north and south – while Tennants can also support customers working in Great Britain.

Tennants Building Products: Belfast – T: 028 9073 1501 - E: belfast@tennantsbp.com Dublin : 00353 (1) 450 3480 – E: dublin@tennantsbp.com www.tennantsbp.com

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Latest addition to the product range Tennants Building Products has agreed to be the exclusive distributor in Ireland for the Finesse range of demountable partitions.

The new range, now available from Tennants, includes Crystal SG, Crystal DG and Finesse FS. Crystal SG uses manifestations and innovative storage solutions to maximise floor space. The ultra slimline crystal sections give a footprint that is barely bigger than the glass itself, creating an almost frameless illusion.

The Crystal DG office partitioning system is designed to provide elegant full-height glazed elevations incorporating glass thicknesses from 6mm up to 12.8mm. The Finesse Fire and Sound office partitioning system provides the foundation for the Finesse and Crystal family of demountable high quality, robust and attractive office partitioning systems. This unique design feature provides the office planner with total flexibility in layout options, enabling elevation changes using alterations ranging from fire rated to single glazed to full height drywall to double glazed in any order at any location.

tennants excellence in building products

NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 39

COMPANY INSIGHT

From specification to on-site demonstrations, these experts in insulation, plaster, plasterboard and drylining have it covered…

A strong team builds success for Gyproc and Isover

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yproc and Isover in Ireland have all the bases covered thanks to the expertise of a five-man team.

Isover has been providing high performance, fire safe, thermal and acoustic mineral wool insulation to the Irish market since 1974 while Gyproc is the market leader in plaster, plasterboard and drylining systems and has been manufacturing in Ireland since 1936.

Both are part of the Saint-Gobain group of companies.

In Ireland, the combined Gyproc and Isover team is led by Regional Sales Manager, Martin McKenna, and has been developed to ensure the requirements of a wide range of customers are met.

Also part of the team are Sean Walls, Area Sales Manager in Northern Ireland (covering Derry, Fermanagh, Armagh, Tyrone and Donegal); Dermot McDaid, Northern Ireland Technical Sales Manager (covering Antrim & Down); Mark McCormick, Specification Manager (covering Northern Ireland and Donegal); and Ollie McBreen, Product Advisor and Demonstrator (covering Northern Ireland and Donegal).

Martin explained, “We have a diverse customer base that ranges from architects and specifiers through to the contractors working on site and each one deserves to receive our full attention.

“Just like any good team, we play to our strengths and the range of experience and skills we have means we are able to meet the very different demands of our customers. Whether it is a formal presentation to architects, providing a full design specification to a main contractor or providing product training to installers on site, we are able to offer these services directly to customers.

“No other company in our sector is able to offer this level of support and we are proud of that fact.”

In addition to the tailored service provided by the Gyrpoc and Isover team, customers also benefit from the leading products from both companies that are at the forefront of their sectors. From Isover, this includes the Vario airtightness system and Isover Metac mineral wool. Vario is a range of membranes and tapes designed to protect against moisture associated issues and

40 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

The Gyproc and Isover team (from left) Dermot McDaid; Northern Ireland Technical Sales Manager, Sean Walls, Area Sales Manager in Northern Ireland; Martin McKenna, Regional Sales Manager; Ollie McBreen, Product Advisor and Demonstrator; and Mark McCormick, Specification Manager.

provide superior performance. The high performance airtightness membrane can be easily installed internally to roofs, walls and floors in timber frame constructions and is designed to manage moisture within frame and lining systems whilst maintaining or enhancing airtightness.

Metac is a high quality thermal insulation roll designed for a wide range of applications where space is at a premium. Easy to install, it friction fits between timber studs, joists and rafters with no need for additional fixings. The insulation is made from recycled glass and is A1 fire rated.

Some of the latest additions to Gyproc’s range include Hard Coat and Habito.

A gypsum undercoat plaster, Gyproc Hard Coat is an easier-to-use alternative to

sand and cement and is up to 30% faster to apply. It can be used on most masonry backgrounds with a final coat of Gyproc Finish Plaster for a smooth, inert, high quality surface to internal walls offering excellent impact resistance, airtightness, quick surface drying and a high resistance to efflorescence.

Gyproc Habito is a new revolutionary plasterboard that provides enhanced acoustic performance, impact resistance and direct fixing capabilities. As the latest addition to the Gyproc performance board range, it has been designed for use in the both the commercial and residential sector to provide enhanced sound insulation, impact resistance and for the first time, fixing capability.

Contact us...

For more information, you can contact the team below or visit the websites at www.gyproc.ie or www.isover.ie Martin McKenna, Regional Sales Manager T: 07971 596401 E: martin.mckenna@saint-gobain.com Sean Walls, Area Sales Manager T: 07702 904317 E: sean.walls@saint-gobain.com

Dermot McDaid, Technical Sales Manager T: 07825 310437 E: dermot.mcdaid@saint-gobain.com Mark McCormick, Specification Manager T: 07855 467301 E: mark.mccormick@saint-gobain.com Ollie McBreen, Product Advisor and Demonstrator T: 00353 86 0432576 E: ollie.mcbreen@saint-gobain.com

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OctABUILD

We reveal the big winners as the leading names in the industry battle IT out at this year’s Octabuild Builders’ Merchants Awards 2016 in Belfast... g

Awards night recognises the best builders’ merchants in Northern Ireland www.northernbuilder.co.uk

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NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 41

OctABUILD

Now in its fourth year, the Octabuild Awards continue to showcase an industry dedicated to quality, perseverance and top quality service…

And the Octabuild Award goes to...

U

nique among representative groups in the building and construction industry, Octabuild was established in 1984.

Over 1,200 people are employed directly in Ireland by Octabuild companies, with more than 20,000 quality products available every single day.

While the eight Octabuild companies all conduct their business independently of each other, they do share a number of important attributes. They all use builders’ merchants as their primary sales route to the end-user and they operate to the highest technical and management quality standards. All are market leaders in their business sectors and they also maintain a solid manufacturing base in Ireland.

Current Octabuild member companies include Glennon Brothers, Gypsum Industries, Dulux Paints, Irish Cement, Sanbra Fyffe, Tegral Building Products, Kingspan Insulation and Wavin.

According to Chairman of Octabuild, Kilkenny man Tadhg Donohoe, Octabuild is important for the industry for several reasons.

“It is now 32 years since Octabuild first came into existence and there has been a lot of change in that time. Despite over 30 years of transformation, what has not changed are the founding principles and values of Octabuild. Our original vision was to build benefits for merchants while promoting local manufactured products. That remains our constant focus and ambition to this day.”

This year sees the fourth Octabuild Builders’ Merchants Awards in Northern Ireland and, according to Tadhg, the mission remains the same - “To recognise and celebrate those merchants in Northern Ireland who consistently strive for excellence.”

The Octabuild Awards have become a key event in Northern Ireland’s construction sector.

“The awards are very important for the industry as they allow the collective strength of the member companies to be used to promote the benefits of quality manufactured products. They were created to reward excellent business practice and encourage the drive for improving quality service.

42 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

“They also benefit the builders’ merchant trade by drawing attention to merchants who believe in supplying quality products, who are well managed and who subscribe to a strong customer service ethos.”

Tadhg also believes the Octabuild Awards event provides builders’ merchants with the opportunity to measure themselves against their peers.

“An independent judge’s report is provided to all entrants detailing marks in specific categories. Any merchant, irrespective of size, who certifies that more than 50% of their business is from the building/ construction industry is eligible to enter. Winning an award also benefits merchants in motivating staff and providing additional promotional opportunities.”

The Octabuild event also Tegral’s Tadhg Donohoe who is this year’s provides builders’ merchants Octabuild Chairman. and manufacturers with an opportunity to meet and develop relationships outside the normal day-to-day According to Tadhg, all firms involved business environment. in this year’s event should be immensely Almost 200 people attended the event in proud of their contribution to the industry. the Hilton Belfast on April 7, in what was In addition, all of the Octabuild member judged by all as a very successful night. companies are respected in their own right According to the organisers, it’s very much as market leaders. seen as a night of fun and celebration for Since the inaugural awards four years builders’ merchants who show confidence ago, the event has consistently generated when they enter these awards. considerable interest and, despite “The builders’ merchants represented at the consolidation and a tough economic 2016 awards continued to trade and provide situation over the preceding years, entry a quality service to their customers in levels for the awards have remained high. recent difficult years. This is a tribute to the “Competing against our peers at any level management and staff of their businesses. is necessary if we are to improve. That “That benchmark for excellence is at an applies in any competitive aspect of our all-time high. I know this because of the lives, business being one of these aspects. outstanding standard of entries we received The awards presented at Octabuild give our this year. The entries highlight the relentless customers the opportunity to see how their focus on excellence, remarkable innovation businesses match with their competitors and and world-class customer service that also to learn from the results.” builder merchants’ right across Northern To find out more about Octabuild, visit Ireland are delivering day-in, day-out.” the website at www.octabuild.ie

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OctABUILD

Who’s who at Octabuild The member companies of Octabuild include:

Winners...

• Gyproc is the market leader in plaster, plasterboard and drylining systems. Since its conception in 1936, Gyproc has provided innovative, costeffective and reliable products that meet the demands of the construction industry. Looking to the future, Gyproc is determined to remain at the forefront, as market leader, continuing to provide innovative and sustainable design solutions. www.gyproc.ie

• Glennon Brothers is the leading timber processing form last year celebrated 100 years in business. The company is now the premier name in the Irish and UK timber processing industry, with its plants in Ireland and Scotland offering a one-stop-shop solution to the construction, pallet wood and fencing industries. www.glennonbrothers.ie

• Kingspan Insulation is a market-leading manufacturer of premium and high performance rigid insulation products and insulated systems for building fabric and building services applications. Kingspan Insulation has a vast product range, including premium performance rigid Kooltherm® insulation; high performance rigid Therma® insulation; and high performance rigid extruded polystyrene insulation. www.kingspaninsulation.ie

• Builders’ Merchant of the Year Haldane Fisher, Coleraine

• Business Focus Award JP Corry, Bangor • Customer Service Award Haldane Fisher, Conlig

• Sanbra Fyffe Ltd is the chief company of the Northstone Group and it has been a manufacturer and wholesaler of plumbing supplies to the builders’ merchant trade since 1934, providing a countrywide delivery service for all its various brands. The company’s ability to grow is as a result of its tradition, manufacturing excellence, market knowledge, a skilled and motivated sales team and a brand name synonymous with a quality product and service. www.sanbra.ie

• MANAGEMENT Award

JP Corry, Castlereagh

• Multi-Location Branch Murdock BUILDER’S MERCHANT, Derry

• Owner-Manager Single site NG Bell, Ballywalter

• Premises Award

• ICI Dulux Ltd is one of the most internationally famous paint brands and one of the first companies to introduce alkyd-based paints.

Dulux is part of AkzoNobel, leading global paints and coatings company and a major producer of specialty chemicals. www.dulux.ie

• Tegral Building Products Limited is Ireland’s leading supplier of roofing and cladding materials and is the only Irish manufacturer of fibre cement slates. Tegral also supplies metal roofing and cladding products for agricultural and industrial buildings. Based in Athy, Co. Kildare the company has been an integral part of Ireland since 1936 and celebrates its 80th anniversary this year. www.tegral.com

• Irish Cement Ltd has been the leading supplier of cement in Ireland has in business for over 75 years. The company has two production facilities and is part of the CRH Group, one of the world’s leading building materials companies, which is headquartered in Dublin. www.irishcement.ie

• Wavin Ireland is a member of the Wavin Group - the world leader in plastic pipe systems for residential, non-residential and civil engineering projects. Systems offered, include market leading above and below ground drainage and Hep2O hot and cold plumbing and underfloor heating, as well as a wide range of Wavin drainage and stormwater management solutions for all application areas. www.wavin.ie

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JP Corry, Springfield Road

• Innovation Award

Newry Building Supplies

NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 43

OctABUILD

Representatives from Northern Ireland’s leading builders’ merchants and the industry’s leading manufacturers are out in force for this year’s awards…

Merchants and manufacturers enjoy a great night

From JP Corry are (from left) Richard Orr, Jonathan Moore, Aaron Gordan and Ryan Orr.

Representing JP Corry, Derry, at this year’s Octabuild Awards is Bernard Crumlish, Branch Manager (centre), Liam Hegarty and Terry McGilliagan.

Sean McGuigan of Kingspan with Martin Farrell, Russell Maguire and Ciaran Sweeney, all from Murdock Builder’s Merchants.

Declan Smith, Gyproc and host, Sean Walls, Gyproc and Isover, pictured with Tegral’s Tadhg Donohoe, who is this year’s Octabuild Chairman.

Guests and staff from JP Corry, Lisburn.

Andrew Campbell and Jason McClean from JP Corry, Castlereagh.

44 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

Ken Robson, Des Patterson and Robert McSpadden from Murdock Builder’s Merchants.

Ciaran McConnell, Managing Directror of JP Corry (right), and Richard Burnley, Kingspan.

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OctABUILD

Octabuild Chairman, Tadhg Donohoe with his Tegral colleagues, Alan Donohoe and David McMurtry, and Ivor Gannon from Kingspan.

James and Vera O’Hagen , BJ Mullen & Sons.

Connor Couston, JP Corry, Dromore with Alan Stevenson, Claire Barnes and Martin Roe from Murdock Builder’s Merchants, Duncrue.

Niall Evans from Gyproc (second left) and Barry Coates, Akzonobel, (far right) with staff from JP Corry.

Noel Conroy (left) and Phillip Duffy (right), both from Sanbra Fyffe, with Liam Barrett, Irish Cement.

Some of the staff from JP Corry, Bangor, winners of the Business Focus Award.

JP Corry’s Gareth Brown, Brian Johnston and Jason Flynn.

Stephen Fee, Kelso Agencies, and John Walsh, Flair.

Niall Evans, Declan Smyth, Kieran Holohan and Martin McKenna, all from Gyproc and Isover.

Russell Maguire (far left) and Martin Farrell (far right) Murdock Builder’s Merchants, with Michael O’Donohoe and Chris King, from Wavin.

Staff from various Haldane Fisher branches.

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NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 45

OctABUILD

OCTABUILD SPONSOR Tegral

Founding member Tegral celebrates 80 years in business One of the founding members of Octabuild, Tegral Building Products celebrates its 80th anniversary this year.

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reland’s leading supplier of roofing and cladding materials, Tegral, offers an extensive range of fibre cement slates, Cedral weatherboard, Equitone facades, quarried natural slates, metal sheeting and structural products.

The year ahead marks an important milestone for Tegral as the firm celebrates 80 years in business. Paddy Kelly, Tegral Managing Director, explained, “Being in business so long wouldn’t have been possible without a strong reputation for quality products, customer and technical service and continuous innovation.

“Our strength lies in the partnerships that we have developed with builders’

merchants, contractors and architects over the years and we are proud to have been an integral part of Ireland since 1936.”

In its endeavour to live up to its reputation as the market leader, Tegral has invested heavily in training and innovation in recent years.

In 2015, Tegral launched Ireland’s first ever training centre for roofing contractors which, to date, has welcomed 600 roofers through its doors. Called the Tegral Academy, it focuses on upskilling and teaching best practise and offers a free one-day training course to roofing contractors, with the aim of raising the standards of roofing in Ireland.

Tegral also launched Thrutone Endurance, Ireland’s strongest slate, in 2015. This slate offers the highest density on the Irish market, offering the best resistance to Ireland’s famously volatile weather, with extra fibres that give the product its flexural strength.

Recently welcomed to its range is Vertigo, the first range of fibre cement slates specifically designed for vertical applications as well as roofs, opening up a host of unique creative possibilities.

Tegral’s dedication to continually investing in quality products and services for both the builders’ merchants and their customers ensures that the firm continues to meet the demands of the construction industry.

Underpinning everything Tegral does is an ongoing commitment to health and safety, sustainability and quality. Tegral’s are the only slates sold in Ireland to have achieved the BES 6001 sustainability rating, a rating for which they were the first roofing manufacturer in Europe to achieve. At the end of 2015, the company was rewarded once again with the BES 6001 ‘Very Good’ rating.

Product quality is matched with local knowledge and customers in Northern Ireland are looked after by its dedicated local team which includes Colin Montgomery and Maurice McBride, led by Northern Ireland’s Sales Manager, David McMurtry.

Backed by an excellent internal sales and technical support team, Tegral offers a complete professional solution for any stage of your project.

Tegral Building Products Limited, Kilkenny Road, Athy, Co. Kildare T: David McMurtry, Northern Ireland Sales Manager on 07720 420152 W: www.tegral.com

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NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 47

OctABUILD

OCTABUILD SPONSOR - Sanbra Fyffe

A reputation for quality A MANUFACTURER AND LEADING DISTRIBUTOR OF HIGH QUALITY PLUMBING PRODUCTS, THE KEY TO SUCCESS AT SANBRA FYFFE IS VERSATILITY…

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anbra Fyffe, and all associated companies operate within the building sector, with Sanbra Fyffe Ltd and Flair Showers both manufacturing their man product lines, while the remaining companies factor their products for distribution.

Together, this team of companies has an enviable reputation in the daily manufacture and supply of nearly 10,000 quality products to a loyal customer base in Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland and abroad. The group is made up as follows:

• RT LARGE (IRELAND) Ltd was founded in 1946 and is based in Bluebell Industrial Estate, Dublin. A wholesale and distribution company for the plumbing and bathroom sector throughout Ireland, strong brand names include Ariston, Saniflo, Casabella, Impulse, Celmac, Macdee, Ultra, Hudson Reed and Croydex, to name a few. RT Large joined the Northstone Group in 2000 and, in 2004, RT Large opened new facilities in Moy, Dungannon. The company wholesales and distributes plumbing and bathroom products throughout Northern Ireland from the Moy facility. www.rtlarge.ie

• Sanbra Fyffe has been a manufacturer and wholesaler of plumbing supplies to the builders’ merchant trade since 1934. Based in Santry, Dublin, Sanbra Fyffe is Ireland’s premier brass plumbing fitting manufacturer, and its Instantor range of compression fittings is certified to NSAI standard IS EN 1254-2. Northern Ireland has long been a strong market for Sanbra Fyffe, with a valued customer base in both builders’ merchants and plumbing and heating stores; as with all Octabuild companies, this has always been Sanbra Fyffe’s route to market.

The company offers a range of over 4,000 products to the industry, comprising fittings, valves, pumps, pipes, vessels, sinks and taps. A reputation for quality products, coupled with a reliable and swift delivery service, means that Sanbra Fyffe maintains its motto of 80 years – ‘Quality without compromise’. www.sanbra.ie

• HERRON & SON LTD is a leading retail wholesaler, renowned for offering a comprehensive range of products to the retail merchant trade. Although a specialist in the supply of quality wire fencing products, the company has thousands of product lines that fall under many different categories, including a broad range of tools – such as workman shovels, axes, hatchets, hammers, digging forks, shears and handles –featuring key brands such as True Temper, Darby, Taifun and Spear & Jackson, plus a product range under the Herron brand.

With a product catalogue providing details of all its latest product ranges, Herron & Son offers a next day delivery service nationwide, through its own transport fleet, and in conjunction with its sales team’s call cycle. www.herron.ie

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FLAIR SHOWERS LTD was founded in County Cavan in 1952, and has built up a trusted reputation as a specialist in the production of quality shower doors and bath screens. The company is the oldest manufacturer of its kind in Ireland and combines lifelong knowledge with advanced production techniques. Flair offers innovative design solutions that bring a new sense of enrichment to the bathroom - the perfect blend of function and form, designed for life. www.flairshowers.com KELSO AGENCIES was established in 1979 as a distributor to plumbers’ merchants and bathroom retailers throughout Northern Ireland, and was acquired by the Northstone Group in 2005. Based in Carrickfergus, the company sources the highest quality products to meet the needs of its trade customers, whether commercial or retail, while also taking great pride in quality of service.

Brand names include Abacus Direct, CTS, Cosytoes underfloor heating, Mayplas, Sealux, McAlpine plumbing products, Euro Showers, Sloegrin, CME (Celmac, Macdee & Ecoplay), and Water World Solutions. www.kelsoagencies.com KRISTEN LTD was founded in 2004 and joined the group in 2007. Based in Moira, the company is a distributor of quality bathroom brands, such as Royce Morgan free-standing baths, Kaldewi steel baths, Niko shower doors, Aquadart shower enclosures and Cavilier shower products, to name a few.

NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 49

OctABUILD

OCTABUILD SPONSOR - KINGSPAN New online store from Kingspan Insulation makes tight deadlines a breeze…

Out of hours insulation from Kingspanstore.com

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ingspan Insulation recently launched Kingspanstore.com - a quick and convenient way of ordering insulation online. Customers can access the site via a personalised log-in, order the required insulation and have their product delivered to site or picked up at a local collection merchant of your choice.

With a varied range of insulation products available from the website, the new online store makes tight deadlines and last minute orders outside of regular business hours much more achievable. All order histories can also be viewed on your account as well as delivery and service options. According to Kingspan Insulation, benefits of using the new service include ease of use, a repeat customer registration service and 24/7 access. If customers have a question, they can access the ‘live chat’ online support service available on the site and there’s also an opportunity for customers to submit a review of the service.

One of the ranges available on the site is Kooltherm, a rigid phenolic insulation for roof, wall and floor with a thermal conductivity from as low as 0.020 W/m.K. The closed cell structure resists both moisture and water vapour ingress and is unaffected by air infiltration – a problem which can be associated with open cell materials such as mineral fibre resulting in reduced thermal performance.

Kingspan Insulation also recently launched its Premium and Premium Plus Services (information also available on the new online store). The Premium Service is designed for homes achieving <0.15W/m2.K area weighted average U-Value and using Kooltherm product in at least two building

elements (such as cavity, drylining etc).

Customers will benefit from two site visits where they’ll be advised on best practice when it comes to installing the product.

The Kingspan Premium Plus Service is designed for homes achieving <0.13W/ m2.K area weighted average U-Value and using Kooltherm product in at least three applications (such as wall, floor or roof).

Depending on the nature or complexity of the build, up to five site visits are included to advise customers on each critical stage of product installation. In addition, a certificate of installation will be issued provided all works carried out in accordance with our recommendations.

The Therma range of high performance rigid urethane insulants can also be purchased via the online site and is suitable for roof, wall and floor insulation. According to Kingspan Insulation each product achieves the required fire performance for its intended application, while the product’s closed cell structure resists both moisture and water vapour ingress, a problem which can result in reduced thermal performance. The product is safe and easy to install and if installed correctly, can provide reliable long term thermal performance over the lifetime of the building.

For more information, contact Kingspan on 00353 42 979 5000 or visit the new website at www.kingspanstore.com

Kingspan Insulation Ltd, Bree Industrial Estate, Castleblayney, County Monaghan T: 00353 42 979 5000 – F: 00353 42 975 4237 – F: info@kingspaninsulation.ie www.kingspaninsulation.ie

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OCTABUILD SPONSOR - GYPROC

Home-owners can now enjoy greater flexibility, both now and in the future, thanks to easy-to-install new Plasterboard…

Gyproc launches revolutionary new plasterboard

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yproc has launched a revolutionary new plasterboard targeting home-owners that offers enhanced performance in fixability, durability and acoustics when compared to standard plasterboard.

Gyproc Habito plasterboard is designed to give home-owners greater flexibility with their homes - both now and in the future.

Gyproc Habito is installed just like standard plasterboard, but allows home-owners to fix heavy items, such as curtain poles and a 40” TV, without specialist fixings, by simply screwing directly into the wall allowing a weight of 15kg to be hung from one 5mm woodscrew.

Habito’s reinforced core is 10 times stronger than standard plasterboard which means it is extremely durable and tough and can easily

withstand the repeated bumps and knocks that happen day to day.

Wayne Murphy, Gyproc Marketing Manager, explained, “Buildings and rooms need to adapt to the changing requirements of their occupants, so flexibility is critical.

“Until now, plasterboard walls have sometimes appeared one dimensional, but with Habito we’ve created a new standard of performance which is truly adaptable.”

He added, “The super strength of Gyproc Habito means items can simply be screwed straight into the wall wherever the homeowner chooses, and the plasterboard is incredibly durable, while still being just as easy to install as our other plasterboards.

“Habito also has the benefit of enhanced sound insulation when compared to standard plasterboard. All of these

“The super strength of Gyproc Habito means items can simply be screwed straight into the wall wherever the homeowner chooses.” attributes allow contractors to offer their clients walls that give them so much more and provides them a surface that’s strong and stays looking good for longer.”

Habito is the latest innovation from Gyproc - the market leader in plaster, plasterboard and drylining systems.

For more information about Gyproc Habito, visit www.habito.ie

Gyproc, Unit 4 Kilcarbery Business Park, Nangor Road, Dublin 22 T: Martin McKenna, Regional Sales Manager on 07971 596401 – E: martin.mckenna@saint-gobain.com www.habito.ie

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OCTABUILD SPONSOR - WAVIN Providing an efficient and cost-effective service to the builders’ merchant trade and construction industry in NI for over 50 years, Wavin Limited is the leading supplier of water management, plumbing, heating and drainage systems for the building, construction and utilities markets...

Wavin - the complete solution

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ighly respected within the construction industry, Wavin has a reputation for innovation and leadership and has an extensive product portfolio which is available through plumbing and builders merchants.

From the capture of rainwater on the roof to AquaCell infiltration and every connection inbetween, the breadth of Wavin’s expertise gives you control over water at every level of the built environment. As experts with water, Wavin is well qualified to advise on how to comply with current and emerging regulation.

With independent third party certification from the British Standards Institute and the National Standards Authority of Ireland, the company manufactures its complete

range to current Irish and British Building Regulations.

At every stage – from initial planning and on-site issue resolution to assured one source supply and product certification at handover – Wavin connects you to better solutions, better partnerships, better value and better outcomes.

Wavin’s MyPortal Launched at this year’s Ecobuild in London, Wavin’s MyPortal (www.myportal.wavin.co.uk) is an industry-leading, interactive platform through which users can access a range of valuable tools including comprehensive eLearning modules and a Community Forum, with more features to be introduced later in the year.

Users can access a host of features on MyPortal including:

eLearning MyPortal has been launched with an initial five CPD and Wavin Product Training eLearning modules - each written by Wavin experts –

that conclude with an assessment of 10 questions and a downloadable certificate on successful completion of the course.

Once logged in, users can start, pause and resume courses at their convenience and keep track of their progress in their personalised dashboard. Courses have been designed to cater for beginner, intermediate and advanced levels and encourage interaction and engagement throughout.

Community Forum MyPortal’s Community Forum was also launched at Ecobuild in March – an area which provides the opportunity for users to share feedback and information about eLearning, as well as engage in general discussion on relevant industry topics and extend their professional network.

Commenting on MyPortal, Michael O’Donohoe, Country Director Ireland, said: “Wavin is really excited to launch this new platform which places expert knowledge at our customer’s fingertips”. MyPortal Wavin Ireland will be launching in July 16.

Wavin, Balbriggan, Co. Dublin K32 K840 T: 00353 1 8020200 www.wavin.ie

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WINNER

Haldane Fisher, Coleraine Builders’ Merchant of the Year

David Brown, Branch Manager at Haldane Fisher, Coleraine, (centre) is presented with the Builders’ Merchant of the Year Award by Enterprise Minister Jonathan Bell (left) and Tadhg Donohoe, Octabuild Chairman.

Judge praises Coleraine branch for an energised sales process and a structured, results-orientated team…

Haldane Fisher named Builders’ Merchant of the Year

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aldane Fisher, Coleraine, has been crowned Northern Ireland’s top builders’ merchant following the fourth Octabuild Builders’ Merchant Awards Northern Ireland 2016 in Belfast.

The awards judge, James Burke, was lavish in his praise of the high standard he found among all the builders’ merchants he visited, describing the winners as exceptionally wellrun businesses. He said that, since the last awards in 2014, there was a stronger focus on sales growth structures and a greater focus on using digital media.

It proved a great night for Haldane Fisher, with the company’s Conlig branch taking home the Customer Service Award, and will be seen as a reward for a continued focus on investment.

David Haldane, Managing Director of Haldane Fisher in Northern Ireland, said, “We are proud to receive this award and see it as a reflection of the positive changes we have made over the last two years in all our branches.

“At all times, our driving force is to support our customers and, with changes behind the scenes with a new management team now in place, and a number of developments at our trade counters, we will continue to build on this success.”

David Brown, Branch Manager at Haldane Fisher, Coleraine, is equally as proud at being named as Builders’ Merchant of the Year for Northern Ireland.

“We listened to what the judge had to say after the last awards and we made the

necessary changes, so we are delighted to receive this award. We have a large yard area that is recognised for being well maintained and easily accessible by both the trade and retail customers. However, it was the changes that we have made to the shop area that have made the real difference.”

Coleraine – like all the Haldane Fisher branches across Northern Ireland – has benefited from a redesign of its showroom and trade counter that has developed a stronger customer-friendly layout that better showcases the company’s vast product range.

As equally recognised as specialists in timber as it is as a leading builders’ merchant and plumbers’ merchant, Haldane Fisher’s customers are faced with

“We see it as a reflection of the positive changes we have made over the last two years in all our branches.”

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a significant array of products. To create a more coherent layout in each shop area, the company invested significantly in a process that was aimed at making every customer’s visit a lot more straightforward.

Lowered shelf heights and clear signage that defines each product range makes it easier for customers to find the products they need.

The new shop layouts also see associated products strategically located alongside each other, along with dedicated areas for seasonal products and for the Trade Best Buys promotions.

While those changes were initiated across all Haldane Fisher branches, they were fully embraced by the team in Coleraine, as Martin McNair, Associate Area Director, explained.

“The staff at the Coleraine branch put a lot of effort into making the necessary changes and while they supported the overall philosophy.

“After monitoring sales figures for a period of time, they felt certain aspects could be improved’, he said. “So they used their own initiative to make the changes they felt were required in terms of where certain products were displayed and the results have been superb.”

“We are proud to receive this award and see it as a reflection of the positive changes we have made over the last two years in all our branches.”

Haldane Fisher, Cloyfin Road, Coleraine, BT52 2RA T: 028 7035 4911 - F: 028 7035 1601 – E: sales.coleraine@haldane-fisher.com W: www.haldane-fisher.com

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WINNER

JP Corry, Bangor BUSINESS FOCUS AWARD

Business brilliance at JP Corry, Bangor

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P Corry, Bangor, followed up the branch’s success at the previous Octabuild Awards by winning the Business Focus accolade this time around.

After winning the Overall Merchant of the Year title at the biennial awards in 2014, Branch Manager, Paul McDonnell, was convinced that they wouldn’t be in the running for further recognition this time around. But, as the old adage goes, if you’re not in, you can’t win and being rightly proud of the branch, Paul again put his team forward.

“It will always be hard to top being named as the Overall Merchant of the Year but we felt that it was important to again put ourselves forward,” said Paul. “We are delighted, to have again been recognised and it is a great boost for our hardworking team again.”

Paul, who has been working for JP Corry for over a decade and has been branch manager in Bangor for the last two years, said the company’s strong base in the construction industry has allowed them to look at other areas of growth.

“With our trade customers we have been enjoying a very busy time,” he explained.

“House building in the wider Bangor area

Paul McDonnell, Branch Manager at JP Corry, Bangor, (centre) receives the Business Focus Award from Enterprise Minister Jonathan Bell (left) and Tadhg Donohoe, Octabuild Chairman.

has started again and that has been great to see after so many difficult years for the industry.

“We enjoy a strong reputation within the construction industry and we work hard to maintain that with our trade customers, but having that strong base has also allowed us to look at areas of growth in the retail sector and that is also paying off for us too.

“While both sectors require a different focus, having such a wide variety of products combined with such a high

standard of service means we are perfectly positioned to meet the needs of both trade and retail customers.”

With a landscape centre, door and floor showroom, a self-build centre and a specification product showroom, the impressive offering at JP Corry, Bangor, is proving attractive to a wide range of customers.

“Having these facilities makes a real difference and having the back-up and support of head office brings added confidence.”

72 Gransha Road, Bangor, BT19 2PU T: 028 9127 1503 - F: 028 9145 0293 - E: bangor@jpcorry.co.uk www.jpcorry.co.uk

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WINNER

Haldane Fisher, Conlig Customer Service Award

Service with a smile at Haldane Fisher, Conlig

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f all the awards to be presented at the Octabuild Awards, the team at Haldane Fisher, Conlig, couldn’t be happier to be presented with the Customer Service Award.

“Apart from the Overall Merchant of the Year award, this is the best one to win,” said Darren Mawhinney, Associate Area Director at Haldane Fisher. “We work in a customer service industry and, every day, our goal is to deliver the highest standards in customer service, so we are delighted to win this award.”

The secret to success, Darren believes, is the low turnover of staff at the Conlig branch.

“Almost everyone here is a long-term employee, with an average of around 15 years’ service with Haldane Fisher,” added Darren. “That has allowed us to develop strong relationships with our customers based on trust. There’s a great team ethic at the branch and, now that we are starting to come out of the recession, we have also been able to add a couple of new faces.

They will be able to learn from our current team and that will help keep our service levels consistent.”

Darren added, “There can be so much emphasis on gaining new customers that

Darren Mawhinney, Associate Area Director at Haldane Fisher, Conlig, (centre) receives the Customer Service Award from Enterprise Minister Jonathan Bell (left) and Tadhg Donohoe, Octabuild Chairman.

many companies overlook the ones they already have. One of the biggest endorsements you can receive is when one of your customers recommends you to a colleague and we are proud of the business we bring in simply through word of mouth.

“We have a lot of long-term customers and we recognise that they have stood by us through the bad times and the good, much in the same way that we have helped them over the years. That perfectly reflects the standards we achieve and why we feel it is so important to look after all your customers – both new and old!”

The Conlig branch has a lot of competition in the surrounding area, so has to work

hard to keep hold of customers.

Darren added, “With so much choice in this area, you want customers to make a conscious choice to come to your branch.

We know if we are to retain our customer base then we have to remain consistently strong on all aspects of our work – both in the products we offer and the service we provide. When someone keeps coming back, you know you are doing a good job!

“In addition to the full timber and builders’ merchant offering, we also have a substantial bathroom and kitchen showroom and our own dedicated plumbing and heating trade counter which was recently rebranded as Plumbmaster. All of this also brings in a lot of custom.”

Haldane Fisher, 41a Bangor Road, Conlig, Newtownards,BT23 7PX T: 028 9127 1711 – F: 028 9145 4093 – E: sales.bangor@haldane-fisher.com www.haldane-fisher.com

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WINNER

JP Corry, Castlereagh MANAGEMENT AWARD

Managing success at JP Corry, Castlereagh

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his year’s Management Award was presented to the hard-working team at JP Corry, Castlereagh, which is led

by Branch Manager, Andrew Morehead.

“This is a fantastic achievement for our whole team,” explained Andrew. “We have a great group of people here at the branch and it is this collective effort that makes the branch such a success.

“The industry has faced some difficult times in recent years but we have still managed to ensure that we go the extra mile for our customers and I think they recognise that effort. I believe that is one of the reasons why they keep coming back. We are lucky to have a very loyal customer base but we don’t ever take that for granted.”

One of three branches in Belfast, the experienced team in Castlereagh works closely with small to medium-sized builders along with DIY enthusiasts.

With a complete product range on offer, the Castlereagh branch – which has been opened for nearly a decade – also benefits from being in close proximity to the company’s Springfield Road headquarters.

Having three branches within the city is a major asset for the company and with strong inter-branch working, customers are the

Stephen Fields, Assistant Branch Manager at JP Corry, Castlereagh, (centre)is presented with the Management Award by Enterprise Minister Jonathan Bell (left) and Tadhg Donohoe, Octabuild Chairman.

ultimate winners.

Andrew believes that the company’s internal systems are also a key asset, particularly when managing stock across branches, not only in Belfast but across Northern Ireland.

“We do have a strong stockholding on site, but one of the advantages of our location is that we can also tap straight into the larger offering available at the Springfield Road branch to meet customer demands as and when required,” added Andrew.

“Having our head office so close and also having the support of our Tennent Street

branch means we have the city well covered.

We are proud to play an integral part of that offering and to continue to deliver for our customers in Belfast and beyond.”

Having that access to such an impressive product range, however, means little if you can’t match it with service.

“It’s all about delivering the complete package and we have a lot of experienced personnel in Castlereagh along with the back-up of our technical experts at head office, so our service is second to none,” concluded Andrew.

Grove Street East, Castlereagh, BT5 5GH T: 028 9045 6100 - F: 028 9073 2971 - E: castlereagh@jpcorry.co.uk www.jpcorry.co.uk

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WINNER

Murdock Builder’s Merchants, Derry Multi-Location Branch Award

Pride and passion at Murdock’s

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here is a genuine pride and passion from the team at the Derry branch of Murdock Builder’s Merchants that clearly impressed the judges at this year’s Octabuild Awards.

The team, led by Sales Manager, Raymond Harkin, has been together for a number of years, with many of the staff working their way up through the ranks of the company.

“Murdock’s have a policy of promoting from within and that is the case with many of us at Derry,” explained Raymond. “We’ve all worked together for upwards of 16 years and we’ve basically grown up with the company. We’re not just work colleagues, but we’re friends as well, and I think that is reflected in how we go about our work.

“We definitely take a lot of pride in what we do and we want to do our best for customers. When you have started working in the yard and then moved into the stores or the trade counter, then you can understand the whole business a lot better.

It also means that we can pitch in whenever needed in each department.

“You also get the chance to build a relationship with your customers and I’d like to think that means they have a lot of trust in us. There’s plenty of competition in the

Raymond Harkin, Sales Manager at Murdock Builder’s Merchants, Derry, (centre) is presented with the MultiLocation Branch Award by Enterprise Minister Jonathan Bell (left) and Tadhg Donohoe, Octabuild Chairman.

surrounding area, so we know we have to do a good job, or customers could easily go elsewhere.

“For us, it’s very much a team effort and we are over the moon to have been recognised by the Octabuild judges.”

The door display at the Derry branch is currently undergoing a refurbishment while the branch is always looking at ways at highlighting the vast array of products on offer.

“We have so many products that we are constantly reminding customers of the different lines we offer. We also have a number of Product Champions – staff who

have been trained on a specific product range and who can provide technical advice and guidance to our customers. We also have the back-up of being able to call in the sales representative from the various manufacturers we represent, but having our own Product Champions sets us aside from the competition, as we are able to provide guidance quickly and directly to our customers.

“Time is always of the essence with customers, so whether it is delivering timely advice or delivering products direct to site at short notice, we’ll do our best to meet these demands.”

Murdock Builder’s Merchants, Skeoge Industrial Estate, Beraghmore Road, Skeoge, Galliagh, Derry, BT48 8SE T: 028 7135 4888 - F: 028 7135 4525 - E: derry@murdockbuildersmerchants.com www.murdockbuildersmerchants.com

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WINNER

JP Corry, Springfield Road, Belfast PREMISES AWARD

Double triumph for JP Corry, Springfield Road

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t can be hard enough keeping any busy builders’ merchant site neat and tidy but when your branch boasts nearly seven acres, then that is a bit more of a challenge.

So the fact that JP Corry’s Springfield Road branch in Belfast was awarded the Premises Award speaks volumes about the attention to detail at the site.

“It’s a real team effort and we are delighted to have that recognised at these prestigious awards,” explained Neil McGeown, Branch Manager at JP Corry, Springfield Road.

“As our site is also the location of our head office then we are expected to set certain standards and that is what we work hard to achieve.

“Everyone who works here knows the standards that we expect and we all work together to achieve this. We don’t feel that there’s any additional pressure having head office based at the site – for us it is a fresh set of eyes who are able to help keep us right.”

The success at Octabuild made it a recent double for the Springfield Road team after successfully being awarded a Saint-Gobain Health & Safety Diamond Award in recent months.

Saint-Gobain – which is the parent company of JP Corry – is a major global company and

Neil McGeown, Branch Manager at JP Corry, Springfield Road, (centre) is presented with the Premises Award

by Enterprise Minister Jonathan Bell (left) and Tadhg Donohoe, Octabuild Chairman.

the Springfield Road branch was up against some of the world’s leading manufacturers at the Diamond Awards.

However, the judges singled out a focus on educating employees on how they can act safer and generate a safer environment for themselves as a key reason behind the success.

“When you are dealing with both trade and public customers coming into and out of a busy site then health and safety is vital, so winning this award proved to be a major boost. Now with the success at Octabuild we

are delighted that our hard work and effort is paying off.”

JP Corry’s Springfield Road branch epitomises the company’s standing as ‘The Complete Building Supplier’ with products ranging from building materials such as aggregates, bricks and stone and cement through to civils, roofing, rainwater goods and the latest innovations from the renewables sector.

The site also includes the company’s washrooms and timber production facilities as well as an extensive landscaping centre.

JP Corry, 648 Sprinfield Road, Belfast, BT12 BT12 7EH T: 028 9024 3661 - F: 028 9023 2123 - E: info@jpcorry.co.uk www.jpcorry.co.uk

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WINNER

Newry Building Supplies Innovation Award

Innovative approach at Newry Building Supplies

I

nnovation doesn’t always have to involve technology – sometimes it just takes a different approach, and that was one of the reasons why Newry Building Supplies was successful at this year’s Octabuild Awards.

As Colm Campbell, Sales Manager, explained, it was the innovative use of its delivery fleet to promote the business that made the difference.

“We are forever trying to come up with different ways to enhance our customer service and improve how we interact with customers,” he said. “One area that has proved successful for us recently is encouraging our delivery drivers to look out for new sites that we aren’t currently serving.

“If they know the contractor, then they will drop in and touch base with them or they will simply just pass on the details of the site to our sales rep. It’s a simple concept, but having an extra set of eyes out on the road can make all the difference.”

Colm, who has worked for Murdock’s for over 11 years, is a firm believer in promoting a team effort in the branch.

Colm Campbell, Sales Manager at Newry Building Supplies Ltd, (centre) receiving the Innovation Award from Enterprise Minister Jonathan Bell (left) and Tadhg Donohoe, Chairman, Octabuild.

“We have a great team of people here and everyone is very committed to their role,” he said. “One of the reasons why Murdock’s is such a success is because we promote from within. Like many others in the company, I have worked my way up and that means I can relate to all the different duties everyone has to carry out. It very much a team effort but having the skills and experience of doing different roles means we are better than most at pulling together.”

Newry Building Supplies has been in business for 33 years and currently employs 26 full-time staff.

Newry Building Supplies was the company the success of Murdock’s Builder’s Merchants was founded on and it continues to play an integral role within the company.

“The industry is starting to pick up again after some tough years and that will bring a whole new set of challenges for us,” added Colm, “It is great to see new housing sites starting again and other commercial developments cropping up, as that is the boost we all needed. As ever, we’ll continue to evolve our service to meet the demands of our customers and I am confident that, with the people we have in place, we can meet them successfully.”

Newry Building Supplies, Rampart Road, Greenbank Industrial Estate, Newry, BT34 2QU T: 028 3026 7626 – F: 028 3026 7666 - E: newry@murdockbuildersmerchants.com www.murdockbuildersmerchants.com

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construction employers federation

Learn about the latest developments at the Construction Employers Federation (CEF) - the certified representative body for the construction industry in Northern Ireland.

Get set for Construction Excellence Awards 2016 Ahead of the competition’s official launch, companies are being urged to start thinking about what projects or initiatives they can put forward for this year’s Construction Excellence Awards.

There are 14 categories to choose from spread across five sections - Housing, General Construction, Infrastructure, Quality Performance and GB & Republic of Ireland Construction.

You can enter as many categories as you want and you can even submit multiple projects for the same category.

If you have any questions regarding the awards, contact Karen Shane or David Fry on 028 9087 7143 or e-mail KarenS@cefni.co.uk or DavidF@cefni.co.uk

John Armstrong, Managing Director, CEF, marks the addition of JP Corry as a CEF Patron with Ciaran McConnell, Managing Director, Ireland, JP Corry.

CEF builds on patronage scheme The CEF has announced JP Corry and Carson McDowell as the latest patrons of the construction industry in Northern Ireland.

The CEF Patronage Scheme sees organisations from a range

of sectors come together to support the local construction industry by providing specialist expertise and guidance to CEF members across Northern Ireland.

Who will follow in the footsteps of O’Hare & McGovern, winner of last year’s Overall Award? The CEF is calling for companies to start their preparations for the Construction Excellence Awards 2016.

Survey finds construction broadly static Only about a quarter of Northern Ireland’s construction companies are operating at full capacity, while a fifth are operating at half capacity or less, according to the latest State of Trade survey from the CEF and PwC. The latest CEF assessment for the final three months (Q4) of 2015 shows that a quarter (25%) of companies were still operating in survival mode, a worsening of the situation when compared to Q4 2014, when 20% of companies put survival as their business priority.

The survey says that less than a third (32%) of CEF members surveyed anticipated growth in 2016, only slightly up on the 29% planning for growth in the final quarter of 2014.

While around 31% of companies reported increased workload in Q4 2015, only 18% said they were increasing workforce numbers, well down on the 24% of firms who were planning to increase employee numbers during the first three months (Q1) of 2015.

Companies are also continuing to look beyond Northern Ireland for profitability and growth.

Construction Employers Federation, 143 Malone Road, Belfast, BT9 6SU T: 028 9087 7143 – F: 028 9087 7155 - E: mail@cefni.co.uk W: www.cefni.co.uk

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project profile

bishop’s gate hotel Project

Historic building restoration opens the gate to further tourism opportunities in historic walled city... g

Bishop’s Gate Hotel

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project profile

bishop’s gate hotel Project

main contractor

RESTORATION MARKS A MAJOR MILESTONE FOR THE REGENERATION OF THE CITY CENTRE AND A SIGNIFICANT BOOST TO THE TOURISM INDUSTRY IN THE NORTH WEST…

Gateway to success T he opening, in March this year, of the Bishop’s Gate Hotel in DerryLondonderry is an exemplar project in the restoration and refurbishment of an important listed building that might otherwise have been left to deteriorate beyond repair.

The project also displayed a high level of local pride, with the main contractor, Conway Builders Ltd, a Derry-based company that was proud to be involved in restoring such an important building .

The multi-million pound hotel development involved the complete restoration and refurbishment of the iconic Northern Counties building in Bishop Street, along with adjacent properties in London Street.

The building had fallen into serious disrepair and was in danger of being lost forever. However, thanks to the Inner City Buildings Preservation Trust (ICBPT), the

historic buildings restoration arm of the Inner City Trust Group, its rich heritage has not only been preserved, but is now enjoying a renaissance in its reincarnation as the Bishop’s Gate Hotel.

The hotel development is the latest project of the ICBPT, and involved the purchase of nearby buildings in London Street, and incorporating them into the new complex to maintain the historic streetscape.

One of the key challenges faced by main contractor, Conway Builders, was how to integrate the unique decorative features of a 19th Century gentlemen’s club into a modern hotel environment.

Director, Declan Conway, and his team took great pride in the whole restoration project, utilising a blend of skills from specialist subcontractors to ensure the work was carried out to the highest standards.

The highly positive comments that the

“We have a lot of experience in this kind of specialism and our team is very skilled at what they do.”

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restored building has received since opening earlier this year bear testament to a job well done.

“Most of the building’s original features, including the sweeping staircase, the revolving door, inglenook fireplace, the decorative panelling and plaster mouldings have been retained or restored,” said Declan. “Some of the work was quite intricate and obviously much more challenging than a new build. But we have a lot of experience in this kind of specialism and our team is very skilled at what they do, as are the sub-contractors who came on board too.”

The 31-bed hotel will help regenerate and reinvigorate the city and, with its luxury accommodation and services, has been hailed as an important addition to its tourism offering. The restoration of Bishop’s Gate Hotel also supported the local economy.

Over 130 people, including subcontractors and six trainees, were employed during the construction and fitting out phases of the project.

In keeping with the Trust’s ethos of supporting the local economy, indigenous manufacturers and suppliers were used, creating a significant multiplier effect.

At the official opening of Bishop’s Gate Hotel are (from left) Helen Quigley, Chief Executive, Inner City Trust; John Meenan, Chairman, Inner City Trust; Ciaran O’Neill, Hotel Manager; Environment Minister Mark H. Durkan; Mayor Councillor Elisha McCallion; Tony McIvor, Chairman, Inner City Buildings Preservation Trust; and Maeve McLaughlin, MLA.

Building a successful business Based in the North West since the 1940s, Conway Builders has built up a strong reputation for its dedication to high standards of workmanship.

The company has been involved in many impressive projects across Northern Ireland, and is particularly well-known in the North West for its work in the restoration of old church buildings. However, the team from Conway is also right up-to-date with the latest ecclesiastical projects too and is also well established in other areas, carrying out work in the commercial, industrial and housing sectors.

Project team...

Client: The Inner City Building Preservation Trust Main Contractor: Conway Builders Ltd Architect: Mullarkey Pederson Architects Quantity Surveyor: The Mulheron Partnership M&E Consultant: Delap & Waller Structural Engineer: Taylor & Boyd

Conway Builders Ltd, Unit D1, Balliniska Business Park, Springtown Industrial Estate, L’Derry, T48 0NA T: 028 7136 2069 – F 028 7136 2072 E: conwaybuilders@btconnect.com

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project profile

bishop’s gate hotel Project

Stained glass

home town pride by the specialists in stained glass manufacture, restoration and conservation...

Spectacular restoration work by Alpha Stained Glass

T

he team at Alpha was responsible for the stained glass as well as the general glazing at the new Bishop’s Gate Hotel.

In total, 72 original stained glass windows were removed, sensitively restored, weatherproofed and then re-installed.

This included the spectacular three-meter screen overlooking the staircase The restoration work continued with the glazing of the very elegant original revolving doors at the entrance. Alpha removed the dated wire glass and installed custom-bevelled 6mm toughened glass.

This is surrounded by a modern ‘seamless’ safety-glass screen.

As well as the restoration works, Alpha supplied and installed all aspects of general glazing on this project. This

included custom bevelled mirrors, fire glass, balustrades, and structural glazing to the balcony. The siege-era exposed well within the hotel was covered with 42mm laminated toughened floor glazing.

The bespoke nature of this boutique hotel meant that no two rooms where the same, therefore glazing and mirrors were customised to each.

Joe Coyle, Alpha Stained Glass, commented, “It was a pleasure working with Mullarkey Pederson Architects and Conway Builders on this beautiful building. We wish Bishop’s Gate Hotel management and staff the best of luck in the future. “ The work at Bishop’s Gate Hotel is not the first time the company has completed work in its home town, with prestigious

projects in the Maiden City including the major restoration and storm-glazing work at St Columb’s Cathedral. As well as working on projects across Ireland, Alpha Stained Glass has also been commissioned to complete stained glass work in major European cities including Paris, Bonn, and Madrid. Within the last year, Alpha has been selected to complete three public artwork commissions, a series of sculptural pieces in the ‘Garden of Reflection’, Derry and two large windows for Belfast City Hall.

This eye for detail is consistently delivered by a team of experienced and accomplished craftsmen and women, who specialise in the design and manufacture of stained/leaded glass and stained glass conservation.

Alpha Stained Glass, 12e Springtown Road, Springtown Industrial Estate, Derry, BT48 0LY T: 028 7126 6371 – E: contact@alphastainedglass.com www.Alphastainedglass.com

68 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

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project profile

bishop’s gate hotel Project

Flooring

Non-slip solution from HD Flooring

H

D Commercial Floors & Furniture supplied and fitted the slipresistant PVC and linoleum flooring at the new Bishop’s Gate Hotel.

“With the tight schedule on this contract, a fast track installation was required,” said Company Director, John Loughrey. “We were able to do this by using a surface damp-proof membrane system. This enabled the flooring to be installed earlier than would normally be achievable with traditional methods, and allowed the other trades to get on with their jobs in the quickest time possible.”

HD Commercial Floors & Furniture is a supplier and installer of commercial flooring and wall cladding, Altro

Whiterock, carpets, carpet tiles, sheet vinyl, safety vinyl and rubber.

Catering for an extensive variety of flooring needs, the company has a busy order book. Recent jobs have ranged from the new Arts Faculty building at the University of Ulster, Coleraine campus, and a new 52-bedroom extension to Cornfields Care Centre in Limavady.

“We have been working in the commercial flooring sector for over 30 years and have recently expanded into the supply and installation of hygienic PVC wall cladding systems, typically used in the likes of commercial kitchens and shower blocks,” said John.

HD Commercial Floors & Furniture, 9 Lower Newmills Rd, Coleraine, BT52 2JB T: 028 7032 6360 F: Fax 028 7032 6280 E: enquiries@hdff.co.uk W: www.hdcommercial.co.uk

Bishop’s Gate Hotel Project

Plaster Mouldings

Another success for Derg Ornamental

W

ith a well-deserved reputation for excellence in this specialist field, Derg Ornamental was called in to repair damaged stone areas on this old Edwardian building, to help transform it into the now magnificent Bishop’s Gate Hotel.

“We restored the mouldings on the outside façade and front, including five decorative dormers, and also supplied the concrete mouldings around windows that needed replacing at the side of building,” said company Director, John Lynch.

“Restoring old mouldings can be quite time consuming, and this particular contract also had a tight schedule,

but thankfully the job was made a lot easier by the architect specifying the use of rimmers, a specialist mortar repair product.

“It’s a great quality product and, what was especially great was that it was so quick drying. Old mouldings are usually 70-80mm deep and the repair work takes time to dry out. With Remmer, the moulding dries so quickly it can be carved the next day. There’s never been a product that fast before Remmer came along, and we have carried out a lot of work using it. Because of our expertise with the product, Rimmer has been recommending us for other work too, so it’s a win-win situation,” concluded John.

Derg Ornamental Plaster Mouldings, 43 Young Crescent, Castlederg, Co Tyrone, BT81 7BZ T: 028 8167 9225 (after 7pm) M: 07742 227 270 E: tarlynch43@aol.com

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project profile

bishop’s gate hotel Project

Tiling

Tailored tile solutions from Armatile

A

rmatile was appointed as tiling contractor for the Bishop’s Gate Hotel contract because of the company’s surface design expertise, level of understanding in this field, and its dedication to the restoration of historic and heritage buildings.

Displaying Armatile’s renowned attention to detail, its project team worked in partnership with Mullarkey Pedersen Architects, interior designer Janice Moore, and contractor, Conway Builders to deliver tailored tile solutions.

“As varied as they are stunning, each restoration project requires something unique,” said Contracts Manager, Peter Rafferty. “Our team worked closely with the interior designer to meet the client’s brief

in relation to sourcing tiles with particular colours and textures. As the recognised specialist in this field, we understand the sensitivities of these build environments and, at Bishop’s Gate, we worked hard to ensure that the new tile surfaces perfectly balance with the Edwardian architecture and modern stylish appointments.”

The dedication and skill of Armatile’s contract team on-site, supported by the unrivalled expertise of its design and manufacturing team were integral to the success of the job.

“This is a great example of how Armatile works in partnership with all the project stakeholders and how we can utilise our expertise in historic restorations to provide tailored ornate tile solutions that give a new lease of life to old buildings,” said Peter.

Armatile, Loughgall Road, Armagh, BT61 7NP T: 028 3752 7007 – E: shop@armatile.com www.armatile.com

bishop’s Gate Hotel Project

Roof Glazing High quality service from Damien McBrearty

L

ocal window specialist, Damien McBrearty was responsible for the specialist roof glazing at Bishop’s Gate Hotel, installing a roof lantern, measuring 3.5x1.8m and four roof lights.

“Roof lanterns are a great way to transform the look and feel of commercial and residential properties. They allow natural light to flood into a space, are a great way of lighting up a dark area, and at the same time provide a stunning sky view,” said Damien.

The sleek, elegant style of the roof lantern also made to blend easily with the classic feel of the building.

The APS profiles used on the roof glazing have actuators, and the roof lantern has AOVs (Automated Open Vents) to provide

Damien McBrearty Window Specialists, T: 028 7135 2873 - M: 0777 3384 740 - E: damien.mcbrearty@btinternet.com www.dmcbreartywindowspecialists.co.uk

70 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

automatic opening and closing. This not only brings huge cost savings but was also necessary to comply with fire regulations.

“We do quite a lot of this type of specialist jobs like this and have worked with the main contractor, Conway Builders, before, most recently on a contract at St Columb’s College in Derry,” said Damien. “Over the past two or three years we have been very busy, especially with schools and office jobs, although we have also recently completed a refurbishment job at the Manor House Hotel in County Fermanagh.

“For the past 10 years we have been involved strongly in commercial aluminium glazing, doing a good deal of work with the Education Authority Western Region to replace old windows in school buildings.”

Damien McB rearty FOLLOW US ON:

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project profile

bishop’s gate hotel Project

Joinery

Bespoke service from O’Neill bros

H

aving completed joinery and restoration work in numerous locations not only in the UK and Ireland, but also worldwide O’Neill bros Master Joiners Ltd as delighted to be involved in such a high end bespoke project in its home town of Derry.

The company’s team of master joiners manufactured and installed a large range of furniture that was specially designed to match with the rich period style of the Edwardian Grade B1 Listed Bishop’s Gate Hotel.

The company made and installed the furniture for two bars, desks for the maître d’, concierge and the reception. Bespoke fitted wardrobes to bedrooms with occasional furniture and the unique four poster bed in the bridal suite were also created. The dining

rooms and the restaurant have period style bookcases, a wine rack, coffee tables and shelving units, again to match the quality and feel of its surrounding. This unique style and detail was carried through to the toilet areas with the cubicles and vanity units being made to look as if they always belonged there.

The difficult aspects of this project were the short turnaround time and the fact that O’Neil bros Master Joiners had to produce this quite intricate bespoke joinery. However, the company prides itself in making one-off items in modern or period style and works closely with designers and architects on all projects – basically, if you can draw, O’Neill bros can make it – as the company motto states, ‘Your Vision Our Passion’.

O’Neill bros Master Joiners, 18 Pennyburn Industrial Estate, Londonderry, BT48 0LU T: 028 7126 2701 - E: info@oneillbros.com www.oneillbrosmasterjoiners.co.uk

bishop’s gate hotel Project

roofing

Heritage expertise from City Roofing & Asphalt Services

T

he roof at Bishop’s Gate Hotel required a specialist in heritage projects so main contractor, Conway Builders Ltd, turned to the expertise of City Roofing & Asphalt Services Ltd The project involved waterproofing of various roofs of different sizes and with different requirements. As a Sika licensed contractor, City Roofing & Asphalt Services could provide the correct waterproofing solution for the various roofs using Sika’s wide range of flat roofing products.

The company has worked on a number previous heritage projects and, with support from Sika Ireland and in consultation with the contractor, all requirements at Bishop’s Gate Hotel were satisfied.

The products used on the site included the Sika Trocal Type ‘S’ PVC membrane, which was used on the exposed flat roofs, and Sika Trocal SBV - a protection and separation layer as part of Sika flat roof build up. Sika Trocal SGMA along with the high performance rigid thermoset insulation, Kingspan TR26, were also used.

City Roofing & Asphalt Services Ltd has been in business for over 30 years and, as one of the leading flat roofing contractors in the North West, City Roofing & Asphalt Services Ltd continues to work on large projects for some of the biggest contractors in Ireland as well as continuing its close relationships with local builders in the North West.

City Roofing & Asphalt Services Ltd, 3A Pennyburn Business Park, Pennyburn Industrial Estate, Derry T: 028 7126 9648 - F: 028 7136 7016 E: info@cityroofing.eu

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CASE STUDY - Isover

insulate Products from ISOVER have been used to great effect on a new-build apartment complex in Belfast…

ISOVER system set to exceed NI Building Regulations

B

aronscourt Manor, a new build apartment complex consisting of 12 timber-frame apartments, exceeds the relevant regulations for thermal performance while, at the same time, delivering a high level of comfort and a reduction in heating costs for future residents.

ISOVER Spacesaver and Metac were used to insulate the external walls, party walls, floors and roof. ISOVER’s Vario system was also used to ensure a high level of airtightness performance.

Spacesaver Plus, which has a lambda rating

72 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

of 0.040W/mK, was chosen to insulate the external walls, party walls and separating floors of these new build apartments. This ensured that the thermal envelope was secure and provided high levels of comfort, as well as lower day-to-day heating costs for future residents. It was also important to consider NI regulations which require a density of 10kg/m3, a regulation that was met through the use of Spacesaver Plus.

In addition to this, ISOVER Metac High Performance Insulation, which has a lambda rating of 0.034W/mK, was used to insulate the roof of the building.

The use of Metac meant that high performance was obtained whilst also achieving a reduction in installation time (through the friction fit function of Metac).

Finally, ISOVER Multitape SL was used to seal doors and windows in the building to reduce the number of air leaks from the envelope.

The biggest challenge encountered by the contractor during the build was ensuring that the materials chosen before work commenced met building regulations and delivered the high performance required.

In an increasingly energy-aware market, ensuring that buildings have a high thermal performance is an ever more essential part of the life of a contractor.

The contractor also wanted to ensure that the materials would deliver to the highest standard. The ISOVER Specsure agreement, which guarantees work completed with ISOVER materials to ISOVER’s installation standards, was also a key factor in overcoming the performance challenge.

For more information on ISOVER products and systems, visit the website at www.isover.ie

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hire

Specialist service from leading builders’ merchants continues to prove popular with customers across Northern Ireland…

A higher level of service from MB Hire

C

ustomers at Macnaughton Blair branches across Northern Ireland not only benefit from dealing with a successful builders’ merchant but can also avail of the additional services of MB Hire.

MB Hire is based in four key branches at Antrim Building Supplies, Antrim; Lowden Building Supplies, Duncrue, Belfast; Bangor Building Supplies, Bangor; and Macnaughton Blair Building Supplies, Balmoral Road, Belfast.

From small plant and power tools to scaffolding and even plumbing and electrical equipment, MB Hire has a vast array of branded products on offer, with the company enjoying a strong reputation with small to medium builders and tradesmen across Northern Ireland.

“Our product range is superb and we work hard to back this up with a great service,” explained Andy Thompson, Group Hire Manager. “It is important to find the balance between both products and service and that is what we consistently deliver.

“Most of our customers are regularly in our branches and know the high level of service we deliver so being able to get their hire organised as part of their usual orders is a big plus.”

Andy has a decade of experience in the hire industry, so he knows what customers expect and he believes MB Hire’s strength lies in its people.

“We have a great team, both behind the scenes and in each branch,” he explained. “We have our own workshop in Antrim, so all equipment is regularly serviced after each hire to ensure that, as a minimum, we meet the standards set by the Association of Europe.

“We also have at least one hire expert in each branch while I work across Northern Ireland dealing directly with our customers. We all receive regular training so we are able to offer comprehensive advice and guidance.

“We also have a dedicated delivery service, meaning that equipment can go direct to site anywhere in Northern Ireland.”

Competitive pricing is another reason why customers are attracted to the services of MB Hire with, in particular, the company’s range of power tools – both corded and cordless – proving to be increasingly popular.

“We are always listening to our customers and if they would like to see a certain product added to our hire offering then we will always do our best to make that happen,” concluded Andy.

For more information on MB Hire, contact Andy Thompson on 07808 654823 or visit the website at www.macblair.com

74 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

Andy Thompson, Group Manager, MB Hire.

Hire range Equipment available from MB Hire includes: • • • • •

• • • • • • •

Access equipment Lifting materials and handling Excavators, dumpers and plant Compaction Concreting and surfacing preparation equipment Breaking and drilling Sawing and cutting Diamond drilling Fixing equipment Sanding and woodworking Electrical equipment Pumps and plumbing

• Heating, drying and lighting • Cooling equipment • Cleaning, decorating and general equipment • Landscaping and gardening care • Surveying equipment • Site security and road safety • Repairs and servicing • Houtman scaffolding • PPE and workwear • Power tools and accessories • Builder’s equipment and consumables

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REGISTRATION

NOW OPEN

Register now to visit this unique trade event

F

ree registration is now open to visit the Plumb Power Heat Light Expo in Belfast – the largest plumbing, heating, mechanical, electrical and lighting exhibition in Northern Ireland.

A new concept in industry shows for Northern Ireland, this event will showcase the latest in innovative products, energy efficient products and renewable power. It takes place over two days at the new Titanic Exhibition Centre, running from September 7-8, 2016.

Registering now will give you a fast pass to a diverse range of exhibitors, including those involved in the following sectors:

76 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

• Air conditioning • Climate control • Energy monitoring equipment • Energy saving products • Fire and security solutions • Heating and ventilation • Lighting • Plumbing • Power and automation • Sanitary ware • Solar power • Tools and testing equipment • Training • Wind power

www.nothernbuilder.co.uk

The Plumb Power Heat Light Expo recognises that, in addition to looking a good, a building needs to perform well and run efficiently for users.

With interactive product displays and dedicated zones you will have the chance to learn about all the latest solutions.

These dedicated zones will include room sets to showcase commercial and domestic applications; lighting displays; a heat zone and tool area, van/4x4 displays and a business and insurance centre.

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exhibition Centre

VAN

VAN

BUSINESS ZONE

TOOL ZONE

VAN

van zone TOOL demos

VAN

VAN

VAN

VAN

44 6x3

45 5x3 46 5x3

41 4x4

39 4x4

37A 37 4x2 4x2

35A 4x4

35 4x4

40 4x4

38 4x4

36A 36 4x2 4x2

34A 4x4

34 4x4

22 6x4

21 6x4

25 5x2 26 5x2

24 5x4

SEMINAR Theatre

23 6x4

If you are involved in delivering, specifying, maintaining or managing a building, then the Plumb Power Heat Light Expo is for you. This event is perfect for:

COFFEE area

43 4x3

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

32 5x3

33 6x3

28 5x4 27 6x4

30 6x4

29 6x4

31 5x3

54 5x3 53 5x3

FORK LIFT ACCESS

20 6x6

19 6x6

modular displays

15 7x6

14 7x4

12 12A 5x3 5x3

16 7x4

LIGHTING displays

heating ZONE

18 18A 5x3 5x3

13 13A 5x3 5x3

17 17A 5x3 5x3

48 5x3

9 8x5

2 6x2

1 6x5

8 7x5

7 8x4 52 5x3

5 6x2

2A 2B 6x3 6x3

4 6x4 3 6x3

49 5x3

5A 5B 6x3 6x3

FORK LIFT ACCESS

47 5x3

10 7x5

6 6x5

51 5x3 50 5x3

PLUMBING / heating ZONE

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ENTRANCE

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Architects Builders’ merchants Building contractors Building developers Business development managers Electrical contractors Electrical wholesalers Facilities managers Gas installers Interior Designers Landlords New build developers and renovators M&E consultants M&E contractors Plumbers’ merchants Plumbing and heating engineers Purchasing managers Estate managers Manufacturing engineers Maintenance managers Self builders

REPRESENTATIVES OF THE GOVERNMENT AND PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SECTORS, INCLUDING:

9A 4x2 9B 4x2

11 8x4

BELFAST

A show for you…

BUSINESS ZONE

VAN

2016

SEPTEMBER TITANIC

LOADING DOOR

LOADING DOOR

TOOL ZONE

THURS

WED

0708 4-9PM 10-4PM

POWER/ ELECTRICAL ZONE

• • • • • • •

Agri-food Education Health Leisure Manufacturing Social housing Tourism

REGISTER NOW FOR YOUR FREE TICKET

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project profile

KNOCKEVIN SPECIAL SCHOOL, DUndrum Project

Campaign for a new special school is realised as the building and design team pulls out all the stopsâ&#x20AC;Ś g

Making a difference

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project profile

KNOCKEVIN SPECIAL SCHOOL, DUndrum Project

OVERVIEW

Respected building contractor completes new Knockevin Special School on time and under budget to make a real difference to local families

Class act by Kelly, McEvoy and Brown

T

he opening of a second campus for Knockevin Special School was the result of a long campaign led by Principal Anne Cooper, so when the team from main contractors, Kelly, McEvoy and Brown, was awarded this contract, the pressure was on to deliver the long-awaited facility.

The £1.7million contract was part of an overall £6million contract under the Government’s School Enhancement Programme (SEP).

The new Knockevin Early Years Centre in Dundrum, which is one of the biggest projects earmarked for the scheme, provides a second campus for Downpatrick-based Knockevin Special School which was coming under increasing pressure for space.

As the area’s first early years’ assessment

unit for infants with severe special needs, the centre caters for younger children who will then transfer to the existing senior campus.

Located on the former site of Downshire Primary School, bordered on one side by a busy stretch of the A2 coast road at beautiful Dundrum Bay, the new school can cater for up to 32 children from three to eight years old in four classrooms.

For Martin Brown, Senior Quantity Surveyor at Kelly, McEvoy and Brown, the company’s usual pride in every project was further enhanced on this one.

“We were absolutely delighted to be involved with this important project that will make such a real difference to children and their families,” he said. “I know they had been campaigning for the additional facilities for quite some time, so once they got the

green light it was up to us to deliver a high quality product as quickly and efficiently as possible”.

“The school was very clear about what they wanted, and a highly effective design team made our job a lot more straightforward.

The project was well designed and planned and was completed under budget and within the 12 month contract period, so everyone was happy.”

Two interesting aspects of the project were the site preparation works and the roof.

Due to existing ground conditions, a ground improvement technique known as vibro compaction was used to stabilise the site before building could commence.

Construction of the new single-storey school building and multi-purpose hall was comprised of a partial steel frame with a

“Vibro compaction ground remediation was a new construction technique for us, but it worked out well. ” 80 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

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project profile

rendered blockwork and natural stone finish complete with internal and external curtilage site works and drainage.

The roof consisted of a steel deck, 170mm thick insulation and a standing seam zinc covering. The roof also included two large modular roof lights, one of which was 22 metres long.

Meeting these challenges, however, was very much a case of following the best laid plans.

“Working in collaboration with the project manager, design team and excellent subcontractors we were able to put a plan of action into place to meet challenges like these and the project ran smoothly because of this. Vibro compaction ground remediation was a new construction technique for us, but it worked out well. ” added Martin.

This forward-thinking was also in place when managing the site which is in a beautiful location, with a busy road, near neighbours that included a church hall and an occupied dwelling, and the close proximity of the shoreline all having to be considered.

The project also achieved a BREEAM performance rating of ‘Very Good’.

These high standards delivered on education projects is an area that Kelly McEvoy and Brown is becoming well respected for and as Martin says, “Kelly McEvoy & Brown have a wealth of construction experience in the Commercial, Healthcare, Ecclesiastical, Leisure and Residential sectors and in recent years we have gained further valuable experience on education projects like Knockevin Special School”

Project team...

Client: Education Authority, South Eastern Region Value: £1.7million Architect: Education Authority, South Eastern Region Structural/Civil Engineers: MCF Consulting M&E Consultant: Bennett Robertson Design

Kelly, McEvoy and Brown, The Grove, Main Street, Castlewellan, BT31 9DJ T: 028 4377 0011 – E: info@kmbni.com W: www.kmbni.com

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project profile

KNOCKEVIN SPECIAL SCHOOL, DUndrum Project

STONE

HAND-PICKED, RICH, NATURAL STONE FROM GLENTOWN PROVIDES TOP CLASS FINISH TO SCHOOL BUILD…

Stunning stone from Glentown

G

lentown Stone supplied the eyecatching building stone at the new Knockevin Special School that was specified by the architect to tie in with the design specification.

“Our Glentown Slate building stone is a product from the hills of Donegal, near Saint Johnston in an area known as the Glentown, which is located roughly 20 minutes from Letterkenny and 10 minutes from the Derry-Londonderry border to the north,” explained Director, Paul Doherty. “It’s a quality product but, at the same time, a very cost-effective one, which we are able to supply at one of the keenest prices in the current market.

“It is seen as a more dressed finish to interior or exterior features and, as it is a bespoke product, it will always add value to a property, whether on private,

residential, public or industrial builds.”

Glentown Stone supplied and delivered five loads of the stone - about 100 tonnes - to the school. “When we are supplying to a job like this, or indeed any others, we hand-pick every stone ourselves - we have between three and five men doing that every day!” explained Paul.

“Glentown Stone is a beautiful slate, hand-picked stone, producing a very colourful, rich natural product that varies between a grey to blue slate to a sandy brown effect. For the Knockeven contract, it was specified that the stone be as dark and grey in colour as possible, and also that it included a lot of corner stone pieces because of the style the architect was trying to achieve,” said Paul. “It is perfect for either interior or exterior needs, commercial construction or garden features, so we are not surprised at the

interest that has been shown by architects and developers working on contract projects and large dwellings,” said Paul.

“This is because slate walls, fireplaces and water features provide a sleek and contemporary look with a traditional edge.”

In fact, the stone has proved so popular that a consignment has been shipped to Virginia, USA, to be used in an Irish theme bar, and to the Chateau La Coste Vineyard in the South of France. Closer to home, large amounts have been used along the River Foyle quay and at the new Ebrington car park, both in the company’s home city of Derry, as well as the Park Plaza Hotel in Blanchardstown, Dublin, and Benedicts Hotel, Belfast. Deliveries have also been dispatched across Ireland and Great Britain.

As an expert slate and stone merchant Glentown Stone has impressive choice on offer to suit any building, new or existing.

Glentown Stone, NW Business Complex, Skeoge Industrial Estate, Derry, BT48 8SE T: 028 7135 6119 E: paul@glentownstone.com www.glentownstone.com

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project profile

KNOCKEVIN SPECIAL SCHOOL, DUndrum Project

Insulation and cavity boards

A tailored service provides peace of mind while quality products help the building meet an ‘Excellent’ BREEAM target…

Premium Service from Kingspan

K

ingspan Insulation worked closely with the main contractor, Kelly McEvoy & Brown, to provide insulation and cavity boards for the new Knockevin Special School that was designed by the South Eastern Education Library Board (SEELB) to achieve a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ Rating.

This project availed of the Kingspan Premium Plus Service designed for properties achieving ≤0.13W/m²K area weighted average U-Value and using Kooltherm product in at least three applications.

The Kingspan Premium Service offers peace of mind to both the building owner and the building professional that all works are carried out correctly. Up to five site visits are undertaken to advise on each critical stage of product installation ultimately a certificate of installation will be issued provided all works are carried out in accordance with our recommendations.

Kingspan Kooltherm K8 110mm Cavity Board was used in the walls of this

project. This partial fill cavity wall insulation maintains a clear cavity which resists moisture penetration and has a zero fire rated insulation core.

Kooltherm K8 meets NHBC technical requirements when used with a 50mm residual cavity. This product is easy to handle and install, making it ideal for both new builds and refurbishments. Kingspan Kooltherm Cavity Closer is PVC–U extrusion with a fibre free rigid thermoset insulation core and has thermal conductivities of 0.025 W/m.K. On this project Kooltherm Cavity Closer were used throughout.

In the floors of this development, Kingspan Kooltherm K3 100mm floorboard insulation was used. Kooltherm K3 is faced on both sides with a glass, tissue-based facing, autohesively bonded to the insulation core during manufacture.

This board can reduce the cost of related items, such as soil removal. The compression strength of Kingspan Kooltherm K3 Floorboard typically exceeds 120 kPa at 10% compression when tested to BS/IS EN

826:1996 and, if installed correctly, can last the lifetime of the building.

Metdeck was specified by the SEELB’s Architect’s Department as a complete warranted warm roof build-up finished with VM Zinc Plus standing seam roof.

Metdeck is a recommended build-up for VM Zinc Plus and is is manufactured under licence by Kingspan for metal processors to bring to the market.

Metdeck consists of Kingspan’s Kooltherm insulation boards, combined with an FSC certified WBP exterior grade plywood.

This not only provides a continuous supporting substrate for the application of long strip metal roofing but also ensures faster fixing times.

The upper facing of Metdeck is 18mm WBP exterior grade plywood and the lower facing of Metdeck is a low emissivity composite foil which is highly resistant to the transmission of water vapour.

Metdeck is easy to install, highly resistant to the transmission of water vapour and delivers superior thermal performance.

Kingspan Insulation Ltd, Bree Industrial Estate, Castleblayney, County Monaghan T: 00353 42 979 5000 – F: 00353 42 975 4237 – F: info@kingspaninsulation.ie www.kingspaninsulation.ie

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project profile

KNOCKEVIN SPECIAL SCHOOL, DUndrum Project

QUICK-DRYING SCREED Fast and efficient service from O’Neill Concrete Flooring

A

s a recommended Mapei installer, O’Neill Concrete Flooring Ltd was awarded the contract to lay Mapei Topcem quick-drying screed during the building work at Knockevin Special School.

“Because of increasingly critical timelines on site, specialist fast-drying floor screeds have a lot of advantages, and this job did have a tight schedule,” said Director, Peter O’Neill.

“The product we used was Mapei Topcem - it is quick to lay and level, providing a quality result which meant that the vinyl flooring could be laid in just four days.”

Mapei Topcem is a special hydraulic binder for normal setting, fast-drying and shrinkagecontrolled screed manufactured to BS 8204-1.

When mixed with graded aggregates and water, it can produce an early drying high-strength screed, ready to receive floor finishes after between 24 hours and four days.

It is particularly useful in high traffic areas such as schools, hospitals, airports and shopping centres, and allows fast-track construction where the screed needs to be trafficked or overlaid early.

Established in 1977 by Peter’s father, Gerard, O’Neill Concrete Flooring Ltd is a family business that specialises in the design and construction of high-quality concrete structures for commercial clients throughout Ireland and the UK.

O’Neill Concrete Flooring Ltd, 134 Crockanboy Road, Omagh, BT79 7RS T: 0781 507 1422 – E: ocfltd@btinternet.com W: oneillflooring.com

KNOCKEVIN SPECIAL SCHOOL, DUndrum Project

STreet furniture

ESF has the edge

E

nvironmental Street Furniture Ltd (ESF) supplied the innovative and modern designed Edge cycle shelter.

“We offer a wide selection of shelters and the Edge is a particularly popular shelter with the education sector. ESF have supplied this shelter into schools, academies and universities all over the UK and Ireland,” said Alan Lowry, CEO and Managing Director of ESF. “In this installation, the Edge cycle shelter is complemented with our Edgetype cycle stand, also installed at Knockevin, and is designed with a recessed rubber insert to ensure the metal frames of the bikes are not damaged, and is perfectly suited to all heights and types of cycles.”

The dynamic shape of the Edge shelter combines a robust galvanised and powder coated steel frame (available in any RAL or

BS colour) with toughened glass, supported by sturdy stainless steel brackets. One of the main design characteristics is the distinctive slanting wall shape, giving it a much more modern style than many other shelters.

“They are the preferred shelter for most local education authorities and we supplied them to 21 local schools last year, as well as other associated street furniture to complement it.”

ESF also designed and supplied bespoke Grade 316 stainless steel tree planters with free standing hardwood timber benches.

“These were chosen by the architect to eliminate ‘clutter’ and bring the children closer to nature. They are high quality, superior specification products, designed for longevity and chosen by schools and other establishments as they cope so well with constant use,” explained Alan.

Environmental Street Furniture (ESF) Ltd, Valley Business Centre, Church Rd, Newtownabbey, BT36 7LS T: 0845 606 6095 E: sales@worldofesf.com www.worldofesf.com

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project profile

KNOCKEVIN SPECIAL SCHOOL, DUndrum Project

SUSPENDED CEILINGS

A1 service from Apollo Ceilings

L

eading Northern Ireland specialist, Apollo Ceilings, installed a number of suspended ceilings at Knockevin Special School.

“Vogl acoustic designer boards were used in four of the classrooms and the multipurpose hall, while another Vogl board, featuring the same acoustic values but with a more ‘designer-led look’, was installed in the central reception area,” explained Clive Perry, a Director of Larne-based Apollo Ceilings. “We also installed Ecophon ceiling tiles along a central corridor and rooms where there were classrooms on one side and service areas, such as staff room and kitchen, on the other side.

“Buildings with highly frequented areas –such as schools – require sophisticated

acoustics. Both Vogl and Ecophon deliver superior noise reduction, less reverberation and are aesthetically pleasing.

“We have carried out a lot of school installations, but this was the first time we had used Vogl. It is perfect for a wide range of buildings which have a need for noise reduction, such as care homes, where you might find bedrooms on one side of a corridor and activity rooms on the other. It’s a superb system but it is complex to install, so we are one of the few contractors with the expertise to use it effectively.”

Based in Larne, Apollo Ceilings enjoys a reputation for quality service and workmanship, which has enabled the company to develop successfully as one of the leading competitors in its trade.

Apollo Ceilings, 16 Old Mill Heights, Larne, BT40 2RS T: 028 2826 8002 E: info@apolloceilings.co.uk www.apolloceilings.net

KNOCKEVIN SPECIAL SCHOOL, DUndrum Project

ROOFING

Rowan Roofing reaches new heights

P

art of the government’s School Enhancement Programme (SEP), the £2.49million Knockevin Infants’ Centre in Dundrum has been completed. One of the biggest projects earmarked for the scheme, the new Centre provides a second campus for the Special School originally built in 1994 which has been coming under increasing pressure for space.

Belfast-based contractor, Rowan Roofing, completed the roof on the new school.

According to the firm, keeping ahead of schedule and ensuring that the roof was watertight to allow the builder get on site was the main challenge in an otherwise straightforward project.

The site’s shore-location also made the going tough at times for Rowan Roofing,

which had to manoeuvre 15m long sheets in extremely windy conditions into place.

Insulation bonded to 18mm plywood will ensure the zinc roof remains watertight for as long as required. High standards of insulation, LED lighting and solar PV to reduce running costs and have achieve the BREEAM ‘Very Good’ target has helped create an exemplar, fit-for-purpose facility which will cater for up to 32 children from three to eight years old in four classrooms.

“Keeping ahead of schedule and ensuring the roof was watertight to allow the builder get on site was the main challenge.”

Rowan Roofing, Unit 1, Glenwood Business Park, Dunmurry, Belfast.

T: 028 9061 5520

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PLUMBING AND HEATING

Customers set to be the winners as leading builders’ merchant reveals exciting change for the plumbing and heating sector…

Haldane Fisher unveils new Plumbmaster brand

A

s customers will have already started to notice, it is all change at the plumbing and heating trade counters of Haldane Fisher.

Now known as Plumbmaster, this exciting new change will see these plumbing and heating trade counters all having dedicated staff and a delivery fleet.

The company, which has just been named as the Builders’ Merchant of the Year, recently unveiled the new Plumbmaster brand that will deliver an enhanced focus on the plumbing and heating sector.

With its own dedicated trade counters, staff and delivery fleet, Plumbmaster’s nine branches across Northern Ireland will offer a superior service directly to the plumbing and heating sector. However, while it is a new name, customers will have the peace of mind that they are working with a company with extensive industry experience and expertise.

“We have been in the plumbing and heating business for over 50 years but our extensive research found that, when people think Haldane Fisher, they still think builders’ and timber merchant,” explained Ian Haldane, Managing Director of Haldane Shiells Group.

“We want to change this mind-set in the plumbing and heating industry and we see this as a real statement of intent.

“Through Plumbmaster we will be able to provide more of a specific focus on the plumbing and heating sector, with the aim of becoming the biggest independent plumbers’ merchant in Northern Ireland.”

A significant investment programme is already well underway, with the first Plumbmaster trade counters already in place in Newry and Bangor, with the other seven branches set to be completed in the next few months.

The majority of branches will have their own separate entrances and, in addition to new signage and branded workwear for all staff, the company has also invested in an additional four vans to strengthen the dedicated delivery service already in place.

“Through Plumbmaster we will be able to provide more of a specific focus on the plumbing and heating sector, with the aim of becoming the biggest independent plumbers’ merchant in Northern Ireland.”

These changes will be backed by extensive marketing support, including the launch of a microsite ahead of the official launch of a new website in May, plus customer and supplier events in each branch.

With its own management structure, Haldane Fisher has made a number of significant appointments in the plumbing and heating division recently, including at senior management level.

Eamonn McCarthy, who was appointed as the company’s Associate Director for Plumbing & Heating last April, feels that customers will be the big winners of the change.

“This is an exciting time for the company,

and the launch of Plumbmaster was one of the main reasons why I joined Haldane Fisher,” commented Eamonn. “We have always been plumbing and heating specialists but the launch of Plumbmaster will take us to a new level. We have a really strong team in place – not just through the recent appointments but through the experienced staff who have helped build such a strong plumbing and heating division.

“We are a locally owned business, which allows us to be more flexible and respond to customers quickly. We have the people, the products and the service already in place and, through Plumbmaster, we can now expand this further.”

Plumbmaster, Shepherd’s Way, Carnbane, Newry, BT35 6QQ Branches at Newry, Bangor, Portadown (Castle Street), Lisburn, Belfast (Ladas Drive), Belfast (Balmoral), Coleraine, Larne and Ballymena. www.plumb-master.com

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legal advice

LISA McMATH OF HIGGINS HOLLYWOOD DEAZLEY SOLICITORS, GIVES A LEGAL INSIGHT INTO THE POTENTIAL ISSUES BETWEEN A LICENCE AND A LEASEâ&#x20AC;Ś

LICENCE OR LEASE? T

he distinction between a lease and a licence is fundamental. However, without a written agreement, it may be difficult to determine whether the agreement is in fact a licence or lease.

Generally, in the absence of agreement between the parties, a Court will look at the substance of the agreement rather than the label assigned to it. The key consideration is exclusive possession, as where there is no exclusive possession the agreement must always be a licence.

LEASE A lease creates a legal interest in land and a contractual relationship between a landlord and tenant, and therefore must satisfy the principles of both contract law and case law which dictate that there should be the following: (1) An intention to create legal relations; (2) The tenant has exclusive possession of the land; (3) It is for a fixed or periodic term and a rent is charged.

The above requirements have also been confirmed by HM Revenue & Customs and apply to both residential and commercial premises.

LICENCE In contrast, a licence does not confer any legal interest in the land, rather, it grants personal rights or privileges. A licence is, therefore, permission granted to the licensee to use the licensorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s land for an agreed purpose, which, without the licence, would be an act of trespass.

This can include the permission to occupy land. Permission to occupy is, however, different from exclusive possession. A tenant with exclusive

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

possession is usually able to exercise all the rights of an owner, and the landlord only retains limited rights of access, whereas mere occupation does not offer the same degree of security over the land.

BUSINESS TENANCIES (NORTHERN IRELAND) ORDER 1996 In the context of commercial property, the issue is whether the occupation under the licence or lease will attract the protection of the Business Tenancies (Northern Ireland) Order 1996.

Such secure business tenancies confer rights on the tenant to remain in the premises following the contractual expiry date, to request a renewal of the lease, and in many cases to obtain financial compensation where the renewal is not granted.

True licences will not usually attract the protection of the Order and, as such, licensors will have much greater freedom and flexibility to end their agreement with the licensee.

WHY OPT FOR A LICENCE? It may be that some tenants request a licence rather than a lease from a landlord.

Their reasons in doing so may include the following: (1) Stamp duty land tax is not payable on licences, whereas it is often payable on leases.

(2) A licence is often for a shorter term than a lease, and, therefore, may be less risky for a new business tenant.

(3) A licence format may simply be more familiar to a tenant.

CONCLUSION The law in this area is complex. Always consult your solicitor when deciding whether to grant, or accept, a lease or licence.

If you have any queries about this topic or any property-related questions, contact HHD Solicitors, who would be happy to meet with you, discuss your concerns and provide legal solutions.

Telephone 028 9077 0770 or visit www.hhdsolicitors.com

Lisa McMath is a solicitor at Higgins Hollywood Deazley Solicitors, who specialises in all property-related matters, including commercial conveyancing, leases and liquor licensing and has represented clients in a number of high value transactions. Lisa also has extensive experience in estate administration, power of attorney applications, and will and trust drafting.

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Partition and ceiling solutions

Units 5/6 Duncrue Ind Estate, Duncrue Road, Belfast, BT3 9BW T: 028 9077 7780 E: info@scsni.com

www.scsni.com

partitions & suspended ceilings

Market-leading products combined with expertise from an experienced team has kept SCS at the forefront of the industry…

Straightforward service from Suspended Ceilings Supplies

W

orking with Suspended Ceilings Supplies (SCS) is as straightforward as the company’s name – a fact the company has been proving time and time again for over a decade.

The Belfast-based company started life as a distributor of suspending ceilings 11 years ago, so, in the early days, it was a simple way of getting that message across. While the product range has now expanded to include partition systems, drylining and insulation products, the direct and honest approach that helped establish a strong reputation for reliability remains.

Setting a benchmark for quality and service in the interiors market, the SCS product portfolio includes the industry’s leading suppliers. This quality is matched by the service delivered by a highly experienced team of experts, led by Managing Director, John Kirker.

John Kirker, Managing Director of Suspended Ceilings Supplies, and his son, Stuart, who recently rejoined the company.

“Setting a benchmark for quality and service in the interiors market, the SCS product portfolio is impressive.”

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partitions & suspended ceilings

Galgorm Resort and Spa, Ballymena.

Public Record of Office of Northern Ireland, Belfast.

Shankill Wellbeing and Treatment Centre, Belfast.

“We are a family-run company and our ethos is very much based around that,” explained John, whose son, Stuart, has recently rejoined the company. “Being an independent brings a range of advantages to our customers. We still offer the same market-leading products from major manufacturers as others but, because of our size and our philosophy, we are able to be more flexible than a multi-national.

“Our reputation is everything and that is how we approach every sale. We are committed to building long-term relationships and the quality of our product range combined with the experience of our staff makes the difference.”

The interior solutions range from SCS includes:

Alternatively shaped vision panels, frameless glazing and a variety of door furniture options can further provide bespoke solutions.

Suspended Ceilings Products

Partitions

As one of the largest independent suspended ceiling distributors in the UK and Ireland, SCS is at the forefront of the industry. From the most basic budget tile through to architectural metal ceilings, SCS can deliver the right solution.

At the core of this ability to deliver tailored products is the company’s relationships with the industry’s leading manufacturers combined with a specialist team of experts able to advise on all areas of acoustics, fire rating, moisture resistance, light reflectance and even the practicalities of installation.

An area of growing importance within the industry, SCS provides a complete range of partition solutions to meet any specification and budget offering glass, blinds and manifestation all at competitive rates. The company can also offer a range of doors to complement these partition systems.

SCS has been a distributor partner with SAS International for the last 11 years, so the company has the experience to provide bespoke solutions that take into consideration issues such as acoustic performance, fire performance and light. Clients can also incorporate artwork and corporate logos through manifestation, which is a modern alternative to blinds, allowing privacy without the cost of double glazing with blinds.

These products are enhanced by a complementary range. SCS’s drylining stock holding covers all performance boards, plasters and all metal systems while insulation products meet the latest regulations and acoustic requirements. These quality products are enhanced by the company’s commitment to customer service.

“We get a lot of business through word of mouth, which speaks volumes about our service,” added John. “We have a very loyal customer base but we don’t take them for granted and work hard to deliver the highest standards. It is a philosophy that has worked well for us and will remain the foundation of our business.”

Representing the leading names in the industry Suspending Ceilings Supplies represents the industry’s leading manufacturers. The company is a stockist of the following: • AMF • Armstrong • British Gypsum • British Gypsum Isover • Burgess • Concealed Grid • Ecophon • Kingspan • Knauf Glasswool Insulation • Knauf Polyfoam • Knauf Rocksilk Slab • Non Corrosive Grid • Rockfon • Rockwool • SAS International • SAS Metal Tiles • SAS Tee Grid • Smoke & Firebarrier • Soundsorba • Spring Tee System

Suspended Ceilings Supplies, Units 5/6 Duncrue Industrial Estate, Duncrue Road, Belfast, BT3 9BW T: 028 9077 7780 – F: 028 9077 7741 – E: info@scsni.com www.scsni.com

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NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 91

gravel

CES QUARRY PRODUCTS HAS A WIDE RANGE OF GRAVEL IN STOCK AT ITS MONEYREAGH PRODUCTION SITE, AVAILABLE FOR COLLECTION OR DELIVERY, LOOSE OR IN BULK BAGS…

Extensive stock of gravel available from CES Quarry Products

A

s the spring weather turns thoughts to outdoors, many home-owners are starting to plan their outside space improvements. Gravel – whether plain or decorative – is a versatile product with many benefits, and one that builders and builders’ merchants should be aware of as demand grows from spring through to summer.

CES Quarry Products has a wide range of decorative gravel in stock at its Moneyreagh production site.

“We source our gravel from all over the UK and Ireland, and supply all across Northern Ireland,” said Steven Oldham, Sales and Marketing Executive at CES Quarry Products. “To make things as convenient as possible for our many customers, we offer the gravel in a variety of sizes. These include everything from ‘handy packs’ to bulk bags and loose tipped loads of perhaps hundreds of tonnes.

“There are over 20 different varieties of gravel available from CES Quarry Products,

and we supply to garden centres, public and trade alike.”

QUICK DELIVERY “Using a modern fleet of vehicles, from artic loads of 30 tonne to eight-wheeler loads of 20 tonne, we can provide a quick, efficient delivery service at great value, ensuring clients’ products arrive on time, and when needed,” continued Steven.

Small loads can be collected or full tipper loads delivered.

“All orders are available directly from our Ballygowan yard, but you can take a closer look at samples at any of our other other facilities at Saintfield and Ballynahinch” he explained.

ROCKINCOLOUR With over 60 years’ experience working and experimenting with rock, the creative team at CES has also developed an exciting, range of coloured rock, unlike anything else available in Ireland. From decorative

landscaping and surface finishing to product development, it can be used to bring colour and texture to any project.

The company’s RockinNature decorative gravel range and the RockinColour innovative coloured stone range can be bought at CES Quarry Products’ decorative stone online store. RockinColour is a colour-coated stone innovation that is ideal for decorative features, plant pot topping, and as a colourful background when laid with plants.

“Since the rock is quarried and coloured on site in Northern Ireland, we have full control of the manufacturing process and can ensure our Rockin product is consistent,” said Steven. “That means vibrant colour and exceptional quality, plus competitively-priced products. We also have an extensive range of RockinNature natural gravels suitable for decorative and gardening needs such as mulch areas, pathways, decorative landscaping and water-feature bedding.”

CES Quarry Products Ltd, Doran’s Rock, 124 Crossgar Road, Saintfield, Co Down T: 028 9751 9494 – F: 028 9751 9750 – E: sales@cesquarryproducts.com W: www.cesquarryproducts.com

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CES QUARRY PRODUCTS

MANUFACTURERS OF QUARRY STONE, CONCRETE PRODUCTS AND BITUMINOUS SURFACING MATERIALS T: 028 9751 9494 - E: sales@cesquarryproducts.com www.cesquarryproducts.com

QUARRY STONE

Concrete Block & Brick

Ready-Mix & Mini-Mix Concrete

Supply & Lay Screed Services

Decorative Gravel

Bituminous Surfacing Materials

BARRIER SYSTEMS

The JSP high-spec Frontier Cross-Link barrier system.

The high quality JSP Frontier CrossLink barrier system exceeds latest standards…

Breaking new boundaries

J

SP has truly thought of everything in the design of its new highspec Frontier Cross-Link barrier system.

Aerodynamically tested by a Formula One testing company, the system gives unbeatable stability and performance in a choice of configurations at a variety of wind velocities, allowing maximum wind flow through and around the barriers, so keeping both pedestrians and workers safe.

The flexible Frontier Cross-Link system is compatible with both JSP and other brands of barrier and can be effortlessly linked to them on any type of terrain.

JSP’s trademarked SurefootBloc 6.5kg weighted foot cover, which can be used on one or both sides of the foot, and its own-design telescopic stability poles, increase dependability even further, while its Surelock lockable clips ensure the barriers are tamper-proof and secure.

The Frontier Cross-Link system features JSP’s unique slimline antitrip feet, meaning that pedestrians can safety walk right next to the barrier. The neat, smooth, design of the Frontier allows for poles, clips and feet to be tucked away within the barrier for hassle-free storage and site tidiness.

All configurations of JSP’s stackable Frontier system meet and many exceed the requirements of the recently-updated Safety at Street Works and Road Works Code of Practice, which states that barriers must be capable of withstanding winds of Class C (8.7m/s) blowing from any direction to achieve compliance with BS8442.

Finally, all JSP’s Frontier Cross-Link barriers can be custom made in a range of bright colours and can also be bespoke branded, giving their users the opportunity to promote their own company logos.

More information is available from www.jsp.co.uk, by emailing sales-ireland@jsp.co.uk, or calling 07827 319675.

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timber

Timber From cladding, decking and panel solutions through to a technical guide for stairs, joists, trusses and timber frame homes, Northern Builder provides you with the complete guide to timber... g

Cladding | Trusses | Timberframe

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NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 95

timber

TIMBER SPECIALIST - JP Corry

Hundreds of years of combined experience place JP Corry at the forefront of timber in Northern Ireland…

JP Corry timber solutions

I

mporting timber since the 1800s, JP Corry has grown to become one of the leading suppliers of timber solutions in Ireland.

Although the company now operates as a generalist builders’ merchant, timber remains at the heart of their business.

With hundreds of years of combined experience, JP Corry staff provide expert advice and guidance to ensure the company’s customers receive the best solution for their project.

Bryan Gourley, JP Corry’s Commercial

Bryan Gourley, Commercial Director Timber.

Director for Timber, has worked his way up through the company, beginning his career in despatch in 1982, before progressing through various departments where he gained vital training and knowledge about the company’s vast timber range.

Bryan explained, “For me, timber will always be my passion. There is always something new to learn every day.”

JP Corry is unique in the timber industry as the company offers a diverse range of timber and panel solutions that cater for all industry sectors including construction, joinery and manufacturing. The business prides itself in supplying a wide range of timber solutions - from the most straightforward products like a treated batten, to a more complex engineered solution or a rain screen cladding. With extensive in-house manufacturing facilities, JP Corry can produce tailored timber products to suit any project.

Timber is a natural product and available

in many forms and grades, which is why JP Corry ensures the highest quality products are stocked to meet and exceed its customers’ needs at all times.

Environmental responsibilities are treated with concern at JP Corry, and will remain one of the primary topics discussed with new suppliers when sourcing timber.

All JP Corry branches hold both FSC and PEFC chain of custody certification. The company is also focused on keeping up to date with changing regulations, such as the European Union Timber Regulations (EUTR), which came into force in March 2013.

Consequently, strict due diligence is carried out by JP Corry before committing to any purchases.

JP Corry continues to source and expand on the company’s extensive range of timber and panel offerings, and seeks new, innovative solutions to meet the demands of its customers in an ever-evolving and changing marketplace.

JP Corry Head Office, 648 Springfield Road, Belfast, BT12 7EH T: Bryan Gourley, Commercial Director Timber, on 028 9024 3661 - E: Bryan.Gourley@jpcorry.co.uk W: www.jpcorry.com 18 Branches Across Ireland

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timber

Haldane Fisher – the timber specialists

A vast array of timber products is matched by experienced staff and state-of-the-art manufacturing capabilities…

H

aldane Fisher will always be best known as the timber specialists. While the company is a leading builders’ merchant in its own right, Haldane Fisher’s roots are firmly within the timber sector.

“We have a vast product range for both the commercial and domestic sectors,” explained David McVeigh, Associate Director, Timber, at Haldane Fisher. “Our products cover every aspect of a project – from breaking ground right through to handing the front door keys over, and everything in between.

“Our range also covers off-the-shelf products alongside bespoke products that are specifically manufactured to meet the needs of a project.”

It is the company’s manufacturing expertise that sets Haldane Fisher apart and significant recent investment in the company’s sawmills has enhanced this further. Using the latest milling techniques to deliver bespoke detailed finishes, the sawmills machine both softwood and hardwood timber to deliver a vast array of various products. This includes

“This diverse customer range means we have to have in-house expertise that is capable of meeting any enquiry.”

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timber

Complete timber package As the timber expert, Haldane Fisher offers: n Construction timber – Providing an extensive stock of construction timber, incorporating the dimensions and lengths required for modern-day building.

“Our range also covers off-the-shelf products alongside bespoke products .”

timber treatment, I-Joists, Posi-Joists, Glulam, skirting, architraves and doors, amongst others.

“Despite the range of products we have on offer, each one can be sourced at any of our 10 branches in Northern Ireland or our other branches in England and the Isle of Man,” added David. “This provides peace of mind for our customers and enhances the speed of delivery. The fact that our customers can avail of the same high standards of service from our English branches is also becoming an important issue for local contractors who are increasingly working in Great Britain but want to maintain their trusted supply chain.

The ability to maintain this continuity is vital and something we are proud to deliver.”

PORTFOLIO The breadth of Haldane Fisher’s timber portfolio is matched by the diversity of its customers, who range from large building contractors to DIYers and self-builders.

Every customer, however, receives the

same high standards of service from the experienced team.

“This diverse customer range means we have to have in-house expertise that is capable of meeting any enquiry,” said David. “We provide advice and guidance on projects of every size and through our experienced staff we are able to answer most questions – or at least know where to find the answer.”

While it is easy for a company to state that its products are of the highest quality, Haldane Fisher can prove it. Accreditations highlight the company’s overall commitment to quality and also to delivering sustainable and environmentally friendly timber solutions, with many products offering FSC and PEFC certification.

“We also work hard to introduce the latest innovations and the continuing development of our joist systems is a prime example,” said David. “This reflects our ability to provide our customers with timesaving and cost-effective solutions.”

• Machined timber – The company’s specialist sawmills use the latest techniques and technology on both softwood and hardwood.

• Engineered timber - This department designs and manufactures roof trusses, I-Joists and Posi-Joists.

This pre-fabricated timber roof solution helps to reduce labour time and the portfolio has been enhanced by the addition of I-Joists and Posi-Joists.

• Timber treatment - Timber is impregnated with either Vascol Aqua or Tanalith E wood preservatives under rigidly controlled conditions in a double vacuum/low pressure plant. Vascol Aqua treatment is suitable for material that will be used above the DPC level and/ or above ground contact. Tanalith E is a green preservative treatment and is used for material below the DPC level and/or ground contact.

• Panel products – The company’s panel product portfolio includes chipboard, OSB, MDF and a wide range of Custody Certified plywood for any application.

Haldane Fisher is the NI distributor for Egger Protect - a chipboard panel faced with resin-coated paper which, when combined with Haldane Fisher’s I-Joists and Posi-Joists, give a comprehensive CoC certified and low-carbon flooring solution that is protected from the elements for up to 42 days during construction.

• Flooring - A variety of floor coverings is available in solid, engineered and laminates in a range of thicknesses and finishes suitable for domestic and industrial applications.

For further information, contact, Shepherd’s Way, Carnbane, Newry, Co. Down, BT35 6QQ. Tel: +44 (0)28 3026 3201 - Fax: +44 (0)28 3026 8101 - www.haldane-fisher.com • NEWRY • BANGOR • PORTADOWN • LISBURN • BELFAST • COLERAINE • LARNE • BALLYMENA

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ARCHITECTURAL TIMBERFRAME SPECIALISTS

M a n u f a c t u r e r s o f Q u a l i t y Tim b e r F r a m e B u i l d i n g s

Open & Closed Panel Construction â&#x20AC;˘ SIP Panels

Can you Afford not to use Leadon TimberFrame?

Tel: 028 8675 1521 www.leadontimberframe.com email: info@leadontimberframe.com 79 Dunnamore Road, Cookstown BT80 9NX

timber

William Kirkwood & Sons

Jeld-Wen

Jeld-Wen launches technical specification guide for stairs...

Take a technical step up Experienced timber merchant William Kirkwood & Sons supplies a wide range of untreated and preservative pressure-treated softwood timber from its timber yard and pressure treatment plant in Castlewellan.

Using TanalithTM E 8000 from Arch Timber Protection, timber can be preservative treated to suit the degree of hazard it is likely to be subjected to in its eventual end use.

As an expert in machined timber the company hold stocks of weatherboard,

JELD-WEN, the UK’s leading manufacturer of timber windows, doors and stairs, is helping housebuilders, developers, architects and specifiers understand the specifics of stairs, with the launch of its brand new technical specification guide for stairs - available now.

The guide contains detailed information about materials, accreditations and installation guidance as well as technical drawings, 3D visualisations and project case studies to help when specifying stair products.

The new stairs guide provides an overview of the full JELD-WEN stair range, covering components required and the various design options available. It also includes essential Building Regulations information, stair performance details and a selection of common stair layouts.

Mike Ward, Managing Director at JELD-WEN, said, “When working to strict Building Regulations or planning criteria it’s useful to have a quick reference guide to product accreditations and standards for stair products.

“Exact dimensions are also key, particularly at the design stages, so we’ve developed our stairs technical guide with the needs of developers, architects and specifiers in mind.

“We have a vast range of stairs to suit different budgets and development criteria from private housing to communal building projects. We are also the only UK manufacturer of LPBC certified fire protected timber staircases.”

To download the new technical specification guide for stairs, visit www.jeld-wen.co.uk

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shiplap, tongue and groove, barrel board and TGV machined profiles in a range of lengths from 3.3m to 6m. Considerable stocks of Siberian larch are available as it is an ideal choice for cladding and decking.

5-9 Newcastle Road, Castlewellan, Co Down, BT31 9DP T: 028 4377 8276 W: wkirkwoodandsons.co.uk

CASTLEWELLAN

STOCKIST OF SIBERIAN LARCH TIMBER FOR CLADDING AND DECKING Siberian larch (Larix Sibirica) rates as one of the most durable softwood species, rich in lignum and resin giving it excellent durability.

An environmentally friendly choice for cladding or decking as current stocks of larch standing are estimated at over 30 billion m3. Siberian Larch is an ideal choice for external cladding or decking due to its natural durability and price advantage over tropical hardwood.

We can offer a range of profiles from weatherboard, shiplap to TGV for cladding and standard profiles for decking.

We also supply Accoya for both cladding and decking.

TEL: 028 4377 8276

Fax: 028 4377 1770 www.wkirkwoodandsons.co.uk email:info@wkirkwoodandsons.co.uk 5-9 Newcastle Road, Castlewellan BT31 9DP

NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 101

Your preferred Timber Frame Business Partner sustainable & environmental

passive solutions

energy efficient

For more imformation call our team on

028 9442 8044 or visit www.unitekltd.com

Unitek Timber Systems Limited 1 Hallstown Road - Lisburn - Co. Antrim - BT28 2NE - Email: info@unitekltd.com

project profile

mencap centre, belfast Project Team effort leads to the successful opening of the unique Mencap Centre in Belfast... g

Making a difference

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project profile

mencap centre, belfast Project

main contractor

Pride and passion from the construction team createS a unique, purposebuilt centre in Belfast…

Mascott Construction helps Mencap take a Big Step Forward

M

encap prides itself on being ‘the voice of learning disability’ but the opening of the new £4.6million Mencap Centre will give users more than just a voice – and as the main contractor on the project, Mascott Construction is proud of its involvement.

The first of its kind for Mencap, the opening of the purpose-built centre in Belfast is a radical step forward for the future of children and young people with a learning disability and their families across Northern Ireland.

The official opening by First Minister Arlene Foster, Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness and Health Minister Simon Hamilton was the culmination of Mencap’s ‘Big Step Forward’ appeal that was launched in 2014 to raise the funds required to build, equip and run the new facility.

The state-of-the-art centre will serve as a new model for early intervention services across the UK and Ireland and provides much needed support services for families and young adults with a learning disability.

“This is one of the most rewarding projects that I have ever worked on,” explained Mark Hanna, Contracts Director, Mascott Construction. “This is a unique facility which has a lot of different functions all under one roof, so it was important to focus on the individual needs of each different area and how it interacted with the rest of the centre.

“But we were blessed to be working with a very dedicated team from Mencap who gave us a clear idea of how this centre would make a real difference to people’s lives. That gave us an extra incentive.

“Mencap knew exactly what they wanted, yet were open to new ideas that could

enhance the facility. They appreciated our input and it was a real privilege to work with them.”

Given the array of services offered at the new Mencap Centre, the flexible approach offered by Mascott Construction made the company the perfect choice for this design and build project.

At the heart of the new building is the Children’s Centre, a nursery for 2 to 4-yearold children with a learning disability, autism or developmental delay, many of whom have multiple, profound and complex needs.

The ground floor incorporates the nursery with three airy, sun-filled playrooms, a soft play area, sensory room, and therapy and family consultation rooms. The playrooms open out onto a large, secure south-facing outdoor play area with specialist equipment

“Mencap knew exactly what they wanted yet were open to new ideas that could enhance the facility.

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project profile

tailored to children’s needs - seven times the size of the back yard at Mencap’s previous facilities at Segal House.

The Mencap Centre will take a unique approach to the health care and education provision it offers by housing therapists from the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust on site. This means children and young people will have access to the variety of therapies and support services they need, all under one roof. This simple fact provides huge benefits to the children, young people and their families who would have otherwise experienced time and cost pressures incurred by the travel to and from hospital appointments.

“It was a traditional build using a steel frame and red brick but, internally, it involved a lot of different elements that had to be brought together,” said Mark. “It is part school, part

health centre, but Mencap wanted it to be as inviting as possible, so it is bright and vibrant throughout.”

Mark feels that the relationships built up with the client and the entire project team made a significant difference to the success of the project.

“We are big believers in trying to iron out issues before we move on site,” he added. “Overall, there was great co-operation between all the various companies involved, and we were able to include a number of value-engineered solutions that helped the buildability of the project.

“It’s all about building partnerships swe were delighted with the part we played in bringing this centre to life and helping Mencap to make a significant difference to families in Northern Ireland.

Project team...

Client: Mencap NI Value: £4.6million Design Architect: Consarc Design Group Quantity Surveyor: WH Stephens Partnership Main Contractor: Mascott Construction Limited Delivery Architect: Hamilton Architects

Mascott Construction Ltd, 4 Pilots View, Heron Road, Belfast, BT3 9LE T: 028 9073 5050 - F: 028 9073 5058 - E: info@mascott.co.uk W: www.mascott.co.uk

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project profile

mencap centre, belfast Project

Architectural Glass

seeing is believing and the architectural glass experts deliver once again with an easy to install system that meets building regulation standards...

Nu Screen is looking good!

T

he architectural glass experts from Nu Screen provided a bespoke solution for the roof area at the new Mencap Centre.

The company supplied and fitted 48 linear metres of 25.5mm toughened and laminated balustrades around the roof area of the state-of-the-art facility.

Gary McCullough, Director, explained, “We installed a system to meet a very specific requirement and we are delighted with the final result.

“The system incorporates the CR Laurence Taper-Loc® system which allows for fast and effective installation and, if required, for the system to be taken down.

“The system not only looks good but it also meets the latest health and safety and manufacturing standards, which was a prerequisite for this project.

“We pride ourselves on delivering the highest standards and we again demonstrated this at the Mencap Centre.”

CR Laurence Taper-Loc® system has made the installation process so much easier and it is the perfect reflection of the high standards that Nu Screen sets.

In addition to projects such as this in the commercial sector, Nu Screen also works extensively in the domestic sector, with the family-owned business specialising in plant glass, architectural glass, splashbacks, shower enclosures and replacement windscreens for vehicles.

Gary added, “We have a wide range of products to suit every budget requirement and we have a team of specialists on hand to advise on the options that we have available, meaning you can have a bespoke solution tailored to the exact

needs of your project. All our work is surveyed, produced and fitted by us and is not sub-contracted, so not only can we guarantee the highest possible standards on every job but this also makes for a more cost-effective solution.

“Whether you require a simple splashback for your kitchen or a tailored, Kitemarked and certified architectural or structural solution, we will be happy to help you.”

Nu Screen Ltd, 70 Ballywillwill Road, Castlewellan, BT31 9LG T: 028 9756 3331 – E: carmel@nuscreenglass.co.uk www.nuscreenglass.co.uk 106 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

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mencap centre, belfast Project

Terrazzo flooring Mid-Ulster Flooring showcase expertise in terrazzo flooring

M

id-Ulster Flooring is one of the few terrazzo flooring specialists in Northern Ireland and the company put that reputation to the test at the new Mencap Centre.

The company was delighted to be working with Mascott Construction and installed around 100sqm of epoxy resin terrazzo flooring to the main reception area, giving a stunning welcome to visitors and users alike.

“It took around 12 days to install, which is a fast turnaround,” explained Emmanuel Lapari, Director at Mid-Ulster Flooring.

“Installing a terrazzo floor takes a lot of skill and expertise and it was only because of our vast experience in this area that we were able to complete it so quickly. If you don’t

know what you are doing, an installation such as this could take anything up to four weeks.”

Emmanuel added that he was delighted that the terrazzo flooring was specified by the architect, as he believes it offers the perfect balance between aesthetics and functionality.

“It delivers a brilliant finish but, because only a few companies have the skills needed to install it, then many architects overlook it,” he added. “When you see the final finish, though, the effort is well worth it.”

Mid-Ulster Flooring has worked on a wide range of projects over the years and has vast experience in both the commercial and domestic sectors.

Mid-Ulster Flooring, Unit C11 Workspace, 80 Rainey Street, Magherafelt, BT45 5AH T: 028 7963 4781

mencap centre, belfast Project

wINDOWS

Excellent craftsmanship from Rationel

S

ecure by Design triple-glazed aluclad windows were supplied and installed at the new Mencap Centre

by Rationel, an international company which manufactures and sells state-ofthe-art windows and doors in Denmark and around the world.

The company, which has been in the Irish market for 30 years and is part of the Velux Group, has a base in Newry where Regional Sales Manager, Aaron McLoughlin is involved in numerous commercial projects, as well as catering to a large residential market.

“The Mencap Centre was a sizeable project for us,” he said. “It included a lot of coloured glass for certain areas, which is something a bit different. We

were sub-contracted by Mascott and worked closely with them, along with the architect, as part of the design process.

That makes a big difference and certainly helped on this project.”

Rationel offers a premium, yet affordable, window range in modern and classic styles for both new build and refurbishment projects. “We provide a complete service, based on excellent craftsmanship, and take pride in delivering high quality windows and doors,” said Aaron. “We also do a lot of work with ‘one-off’ homes and have featured on the TV show ‘Grand Designs’ on a couple of occasions, as well as a number of other home improvement shows.”

Rationel, Unit 13A, WIN Business Park, Canal Quay, Newry, Co Down, BT35 6PH T: 028 3026 0758 – E: enquiries@rationel.ie W: www.rationel.co.uk

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project profile

mencap centre, belfast Project

JOINERY

Joinery manufacturing at its best with M&M Joinery

W

ith over 35 years’ experience and expertise, M&M Joinery made all the internal oak door frames and internal oak fire screens, as well as the oak skirtings, door stops and special architraves for the Mencap Centre.

The quality of workmanship shines through in the new building, but the team from M&M Joinery is equally at home on restoration projects, and has built up a strong reputation in this area too.

“We manufacture all kinds of purposedesigned joinery work and specialise in the refurbishment of listed buildings,” said Morris Stewart. “We take great pride in this work, matching our joinery work with the existing features - everything

from sliding sash windows and doors to cornices, architraves and skirtings.”

Working with many of the major building contractors, recent jobs for M&M Joinery have recently included projects at RBAI school in Belfast; Queen’s University, Belfast; and the Portico project in Portaferry, which involved the restoration and conservation of the former Portaferry Presbyterian Church. M&M Joinery also works in the social housing sector, supplying such products as stairs, canopies, meter cupboards.

“All quotations are free of charge and include delivery to site. Materials can also be primed before delivery if required,” said Morris.

M&M Joinery, Unit 13c, Rathenraw Industrial Estate, Antrim, BT41 2SJ T/F: 028 9442 8268 E: wentworthcountryhouse@hotmail.com

mencap centre, belfast Project

wall cladding High quality system installation

by Alphaclad

H

aving worked extensively on similar projects, such as nursing homes and hospitals, with main contractor, Mascott Construction, Alphaclad was the company of choice when it came to supplying and installing the Altro Whiterock hygienic cladding system specified for the kitchen at the new Mencap Centre.

“The team at Alphaclad are all experienced Alpha Whiterock fitters and had only recently fitted the same system at the new Ballymena Health and Care Centre, so we knew exactly what we were doing, and the job was very straightforward,” said Alphaclad Director, Sean Duffy. “Altro

Whiterock is a fully bonded system with a continuous smooth, tough and durable surface, making it ideal for this kind of building as it can be wiped clean in an instant, retaining its hygienic, stain-free appearance.”

The system is constructed from the highest quality virgin-grade PVC, with a tight molecular structure that prevents the ingress of moisture and odour. It incorporates stabilisers for excellent UV stability and won’t discolour over time.

“Altro Whiterock hygienic cladding system is not just a 2.5mm-thick PVCu sheet, it’s a complete system of compatible wall cladding and doorsets,” conluded Sean.

Alphaclad (NI) Ltd, 4 Kilglen Drive Meigh, Meigh, Newry, Co Down, BT35 8JW T: 028 3084 8602 – M: 07549 538 407 E: sean@alphaclad.com

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Congratulations

JEMUAL CHAMOS SERC

Young Apprentice of the Year 2016

skillbuild ni

Apprentice of the Year, Jemual Chamos of South Eastern Regional College, is congratulated by Barry Neilson, CITB NI, and Declan McGuckin, of sponsors, Haldane Fisher.

Northern Ireland finals see 10 young competitors selected for UK Squad…

Construction apprentices strike gold, silver and bronze at Skillbuild 2016

C

onstruction apprentices competed against each other and tested their skills in nine different construction trades at the Skillbuild NI Finals held at South West College, Technology and Skills Centre, Enniskillen, in March.

Skillbuild NI, run on behalf of the industry

by CITB NI, is held each spring, with 80 of the top local construction apprentices competing to win coveted titles, ranging from brickwork to wall and floor tiling.

The winners may then go on to represent Northern Ireland in the Skills Show UK and, potentially, at WorldSkills.

Department for Employment and Learning Deputy Secretary, Catherine Bell, said, “Skillbuild NI is a great opportunity to showcase and celebrate the high level of skills we possess and also the impressive

CITB NI, Nutts Corner Training Centre, 17 Dundrod Road, Crumlin, County Antrim, BT29 4SR. Tel: 028 9082 5466

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talent of our workforce. It reflects the high standards of training in our colleges and the commitment to excellence demonstrated by the competitors.

“As with all skills competitions, Skillbuild NI is about raising the status and standards of professional and technical education and training. We have a proud record of success at skills competitions, not only on a local level but also on a regional, national and world level. I congratulate the 10 young competitors who have been selected to represent the UK Squad, and I look forward to seeing how many progress to the prestigious Worldskills competition in Abu Dhabi in 2017.”

Maurice Johnston, Chairman CITB NI said, “CITB NI is proud to have been involved in construction competitions for almost 40

years. During this time we have witnessed many construction apprentices take their first steps on a journey that has led to success at UK National, International or even World Skills Competitions. Skillbuild is an amazing showcase for the wide variety of skills and talent we have in this country, and we congratulate not only the medal winners but all of those who have taken part in this prestigious competition.

Skillbuild NI couldn’t happen without the support of the local sponsors and the training network. We extend our thanks to all who have helped the apprentices to be able to compete here today. Our young people are more ambitious now than ever and we wish all the competitors luck in their future careers within the construction industry.”

www.citbni.org.uk NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 111

skillbuild ni

Daniel McAteer is presented with the gold medal for plastering and dry wall systems by (from left) special guest Sarah Travers; Maurice Johnston, Chairman, CITB NI; and Catherine Ball, Deputy Secretary at the Department for Employment and Learning.

Stuart Graham won gold in the electrical installation category.

Dylan Fitzpatrick won gold for painting and decorating.

All the gold medal winners from this year’s Skillbuild NI, held at South West College, Enniskillen.

Tyler Elliott won gold in the plumbing pipework category.

William Campbell won gold in the carpentry section.

Host college, South West College, wins 10 medals but SERC’s talented bricklayer takes the top prize…

Double success for Jemual and a hat-trick for SWC

T

his year’s Best Overall Skillbuild NI Young Apprentice is Jemual Chamos from South Eastern Regional College (SERC).

After winning gold in the brickwork category last year, he made it a double success this time around while also landing the top title of the day.

Overall, Skillbuild NI 2016 saw gold medals awarded to apprentices from six different colleges – with South West College (SWC) – the host college for this year’s event – coming out on top.

SWC made it a hat-trick of success by winning the Skillbuild NI Chairperson’s Cup for the third year in a row, while the college was also presented with the Skillbuild DEL Cup. The Skillbuild Chairperson’s Cup is awarded to the college with the highest number of entries, while the Skillbuild DEL Cup is presented to the college with the highest number of medal winners.

For South West College, gold medals were presented to Stuart Graham (electrical installation), Dylan Fitzpatrick (painting and

decorating) and Daniel McAteer (plastering and dry wall systems). Other medals winners from SWC included Edwin Lewis, bronze medal in brickwork; Jonathan Smith (silver) and Edward Allan (bronze) in cabinet making; Brian McLoughlin, who won silver in carpentry; Gareth Elliot (silver) and Jamie Howe (bronze) in the joinery category; and Peter McKernan, who won bronze in painting and decorating.

Apprentices from Southern Regional College also enjoyed a successful day, winning nine medals in total, including

CITB NI, Nutts Corner Training Centre, 17 Dundrod Road, Crumlin, County Antrim, BT29 4SR. Tel: 028 9082 5466

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skillbuild ni

SKILLBUILD NI WINNERS… OVERALL APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR Jemual Chamos, SERC

THE SKILLBUILD NI CHAIRPERSON’S CUP South West College

SKILLBUILD NI DEL CUP South West College Daniel McBurney, gold medal winner in the wall and floor tiling category, is presented with his trophy by (from left) Catherine Ball, Deputy Secretary at the Department for Employment and Learning; special guest Sarah Travers; and Maurice Johnston, Chairman, CITB NI.

HUGH GETTINBY AWARD Keith Wade, North West Regional College

PRIZE

COLLEGE

APPRENTICE

SERC SRC SWC

Jemual Chaos Thomas Fegan Edwin Lewis

Brickwork GOLD SILVER BRONZE

CABINET MAKING GOLD SILVER BRONZE Christopher Jeffrey, gold medal winner in cabinet making, pictured with (from left) Maurice Johnston, Chairman, CITB NI; special guest Sarah Travers; and Catherine Ball, Deputy Secretary at the Department for Employment and Learning.

SRC SWC SWC

Christopher Jeffery Jonathan Smith Edward Allan

SERC SWC BMC

William Campbell Brian McLoughlin Euan Craig

CARPENTRY GOLD SILVER BRONZE

ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION GOLD SILVER BRONZE

SWC NRC NRC

Stuart Graham Philip Aiken Aaron Topping

SRC SWC SWC

Richard Shannon Gareth Elliot Jamie Howe

JOINERY GOLD SILVER BRONZE Richard Shannon, winner of the gold medal for joinery, pictured with Maurice Johnston, Chairman, CITB NI; special guest Sarah Travers; and Catherine Ball, Deputy Secretary at the Department for Employment and Learning.

clean sweeps in the plumbing pipework, and the wall and floor tiling categories. Tyler Elliott edged out Gary Knight and Richard Nicholson to win gold in the plumbing section, while Daniel McBurney won gold in wall and flooring tiling ahead of SRC colleague, David Markey.

Best Overall Skillbuild NI Young Apprentice, Jemual Chamos, was one of three medal winners from SERC, with William Campbell winning a gold medal in the carpentry section and Curtis Johnston taking bronze for plastering and dry wall systems.

Also gaining awards were Philip Aiken and Aaron Topping from Northern Regional College, who won silver and bronze respectively in the electrical installation section. Belfast Metropolitan College apprentice Euan Craig was the winner of a bronze medal for carpentry, and Dylan Sweeney won a silver medal for painting and decorating.

CITB NI, Nutts Corner Training Centre, 17 Dundrod Road, Crumlin, County Antrim, BT29 4SR. Tel: 028 9082 5466

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PAINTING & DECORATING GOLD SILVER BRONZE

SWC NWRC SWC

Dylan Fitzpatrick Dylan Sweeney Peter McKernan

PLASTERING & DRY WALL SYSTEMS GOLD SILVER BRONZE

SWC SRC SERC

Daniel McAteer Cailum McArdle Curtis Johnston

PLUMBING PIPEWORK GOLD SILVER BRONZE

SRC SRC SRC

Tyler Elliott Gary Knight Richard Nicholson

WALL & FLOOR TILING GOLD SILVER

SRC SRC

Daniel McBurney David Markey

www.citbni.org.uk NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 113

skillbuild ni

investing in the fUture • Investing in the fUture • investing in the fUture • investing in the fUture

The Skillbuild NI NATIONAL FINALS competition receives the support of companies from the local construction industry. This sponsorship is very much appreciated. listed below are SOME OF the companies who have invested in the future wellbeing of both the competition and the industry.

NEWRY - BANGOR - PORTADOWN - LISBURN - BELFAST COLERAINE - LARNE - BALLYMENA www.haldane-fisher.com

39A Stockman’s Way, Belfast, Co. Antrim, BT9 7ET Tel: 02890 684952 / 07850 927526 Email: karen.lennon@collegesni.ac.uk

Old Paper Mill, Ballyclare, County Antrim, BT39 9EB Free Phone: 0845 3990159 E: tech.ie@saint.gobain.com www.gyproc.ie

47 Boucher Road, Belfast, BT12 6HR. T: +44 (0)28 9066 4334 www.gilbert-ash.com

FMB Northern Ireland, Unit 10, Kilbegs Business Centre, Plasketts Close, Antrim, BT41 4LY Tel 028 9446 0416 Email: fmbni@fmb.org.uk www.fmb.org.uk

Unit 53, Banbridge Enterprise Centre, Scarva Road, Banbridge BT32 3QD Tel: 028 4062 3788 Fax: 028 4062 5492 email: info@mmajoinery.com mmajoinery.com

Kingscourt Country Manor Brick Co. Ltd. 12 Herdman Channel Road Belfast Harbour Estate Belfast, BT3 9LG Tel: 028 9077 7321 - Fax: 028 9077 7245 www.cmb.ie

17A Derriaghy Road Lisburn Co. Antrim BT28 3SF Tel/Fax: 028 9060 2545 Mob: 077 1119 0742 email: info@dggreenandsons.co.uk www.dggreenandsons.co.uk

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Success for 10 apprentices while college picks up two trophies…

SWC shines at Skillbuild NI

S

outh West College once again surpassed all expectations with an outstanding performance by its apprentices at the recent Skillbuild NI competition.

A total of 10 students from the Dungannon, Enniskillen and Omagh campuses received accolades across 7 different disciplines, which resulted in the college being awarded the Skillbuild NI DEL Cup. The Skillbuild NI DEL cup is awarded to the Further Education College which has the most award winners.

On top of this award the college was presented with the Skillbuild NI Chairpersons Cup. This is awarded to the college which has provided the most entrants into the competition.

Maria Hackett, Head of Training at SWC, was delighted with the standard of competition on display. “This competition is an excellent opportunity for apprentices throughout the region to display their talent and commitment to their individual trades.

Close to 80 young apprentices converged

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on the Technology and Skills Centre and I have no doubt that some of the finest apprentices in the world were present and displaying their skills.”

South West College takes great pride in the standard of apprentices it produces and is currently running a number of Higher Catherine Bell presenting Maria Hackett, Head of Training at SWC with the Level Apprenticeship Skillbuild NI DEL Cup. courses. A unique workbased programme, it allows apprentices the opportunity to learn as the best combination of on-the-job while they gain a nationally recognised training and employee higher level study professional qualification. available. The unique programme offers This experience coincides with a close employees the opportunity to gain a third mentoring relationship and academic level qualification at Foundation Degree support provided by South West College level, whilst improving business practice by as apprentices progress through the developing progressively.

Foundation Degree. The Higher Level For more information, contact SWC on Apprentice programme is widely recognised 0845 603 1881 or visit www.swc.ac.uk

NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 115

company news

UK AND IRELAND TOUR WILL UNVEIL NEW WHITE-PAINTED ROOF WINDOW RANGE…

Velux takes to the road with national tour

L

eading manufacturer, the VELUX Group, is on the road for the next four months to unveil its new whitepainted roof window range to customers.

The VELUX 2016 Tour is currently on the road, visiting 250 venues across the UK and Ireland until the end of July to give installers and suppliers a first look at this new range which has been developed to meet demand for a contemporary alternative to traditional pine.

All installers who attend the event will have the chance to win over £75,000 of rewards and exclusive prizes on the day, including a brand-new Vauxhall Vivaro van worth over £20,000, Makita drill sets and white iPad minis.

Everyone who pre-registers at www.velux. co.uk/2016tour or www.velux.ie/2016tour and attends an event will receive an instant-win scratch card with a guaranteed VELUX reward worth between £5 and £50. Attendees will also be able to take a virtual tour of the VELUX factory.

For every VELUX white-painted roof window bought in April and May,

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customers will receive £25 worth of reward vouchers, redeemable at Marks & Spencer, Argos, Pizza Express, Thomas Cook, and Ticketmaster.

Ashley Nelson, Brand Manager at VELUX, said, “We’re launching our new whitepainted roof window range over the coming months and want to give our suppliers and installers a first look at the new products.

“Our team will be touring the length and breadth of the UK and Ireland over the next few months to show our customers how this great range will work for them.

Customers should register on our website to let us know they’re coming and be there on the day for a chance to win a range of fantastic prizes.”

The new white-painted roof window range from VELUX is available nationwide from April, and will become the standard roof window product in the market. Each component is painted before assembly for a flawless low-maintenance finish and outstanding durability. Offering a contemporary white finish, these new

VELUX roof windows are treated with a high quality, water-based breathable paint and are UV resistant to preserve their bright, white look.

To find your nearest event or to pre-register attendance, visit www.velux.co.uk/2016tour or www.velux.ie/2016tour

Win…win…win Win a brand-new Vauxhall Vivaro van worth over £20,000, a Makita drill set or white iPad mini – just some of the £75,000 of rewards and exclusive prizes up for grabs during the VELUX 2106 Tour.

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PEOPLE PROFILE

After 10 years with leading construction materials manufacturers, Acheson & Glover (AG), David Speirs has taken up a new role as AG’s link for Northern Ireland construction companies making their mark in Britain…

The Personal Touch

F

or David Speirs selling innovative concrete product solutions to Northern Ireland’s largest construction companies seeking to deliver contracts in Britain is a far cry from his childhood ambition of earning a living in professional sport.

The plucky 30-year-old from Castledawson had his sights set on the glamorous world of sports’ coaching before joining Acheson & Glover (AG) as a 20-year-old.

Although not quite what he’d set out to do, it was a somewhat familiar environment for him as both his father and brother were employed by the family-owned firm that has been enjoying success throughout the UK and Ireland since undergoing major changes brought on by the recession in the late 2000s.

“Upon leaving school I had spent a couple of years doing sports excellence and performance in Ballymena with a view to going into coaching or teaching. I had also spent six months coaching soccer in Boston and had considered the possibility of enrolling at Liverpool John Moores University to pursue what I thought was an inevitable journey towards a career in sport.

“But when the opportunity came to earn some money and get into regular employment as a General Operative at Acheson & Glover’s Magherafelt plant I jumped at it. That was 10 years ago and I guess you could say I haven’t looked back since,” David explained.

“From day one I loved the culture of the place. I felt I knew the Chief Executive, Raymond Acheson, even before I started working there as my dad and brother spoke so highly and often about him. It was hard work - from 6am to 6pm – but it helped me develop a sound work ethic and a love for the company.”

Spells as a Sales Advisor in AG’s Dungannon and Toome-based Outside Rooms were followed by a move into commercial sales where he began serving local construction companies interested in purchasing anything from AG’s high-end paving and walling to more complex segmental retaining walls or value-added products like acoustic blocks.

“This was clearly a very different challenge from selling to domestic consumers,

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David Speirs, Acheson Glover.

although I find the basics of sales are similar no matter to whom you are selling. For me, it’s all about knowing your customer and how you can meet their needs. At AG we’re fortunate to have an excellent range of innovative hard landscaping solutions that I know we can sell with confidence.”

After two years working within Northern Ireland, David took up a new challenge from the beginning of April, working with many of those large construction companies – but this time serving their needs in GB. “It’s no secret that our top eight or nine construction companies in NI secured something in the region of a billion and half pounds of work in GB between 2014 and 2015. That’s a major opportunity for AG as we believe we have a lot to offer them as they seek to grow their footprints in Britain.”

Speirs believes his new role is unique –

and reflects the investment AG makes in building strong and sustainable relationships with its business partners.

“As a business we are known for our agility, our responsiveness and the ease with which people can do business with us. Our goal with any customer is to add genuine value and to make life easier for them.

“I believe having a ‘go-to’ person at AG for our large local construction companies will be a real value-add and help to them as they compete for and deliver projects large and small in Britain.

“In keeping with our company way of doing things, my approach is all about providing the personal touch, helping our customers overcome obstacles and giving them excellent levels of customer service.”

For more information on AG you can log on to www.ag.uk.com

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project profile

portico - portaferry Project

main contractor

Greek revival temple building project is an exemplar of best practice in restoration…

TAL Ltd delivers on tall order T he Portico project in Portaferry involved the restoration and conservation of a Grade A listed Greek Revival temple building, formerly known as Portaferry Presbyterian Church, to produce a stunning arts and heritage venue.

Portico is owned by the charity ‘friends of Portaferry Presbyterian Church’, which engaged Lisburn-based TAL Ltd as main contractor on the restoration work.

The project is an exemplar not only of best practice in restoration, but also of how a small charity can take over a dilapidated Grade A listed building, raise the £1.5million needed for its restoration and produce a stunning arts and heritage venue for the whole community to enjoy.

All this, whilst, at the same time, preserving the architectural integrity and historical importance of the building.

The restoration included a complete

structural overhaul, as well as an extension, in the Greek Revival style, which added a meeting room and much needed modern facilities.

Portaferry Presbyterian Church, built in 1839 and designed by John Miller, is described

by Professor James Curl, in the Oxford Dictionary of Architecture as “a building in the first rank of neoclassical designs”.

CONSERVATION AND RESTORATION Architect Bill Maxwell’s brief was one of conservation then restoration and, only where necessary, replacement and alteration. He produced a conservation report, and supplementary reports came from Crick Jones (paint scrapes); Joe McKee (organ); Ian Chilvers, Atelier Works (signage/ displays); Colin Hattrick (stained glass); Semple McKillop (M&E); Neil Porteous (landscaping); Access NI (access); and BCD

Partnership (structural engineering). All work received Listed Building’s Approval and, in 2014, TAL Ltd was appointed contractor for the project.

“Conservation was foremost on this project, but the building still had to meet 21st Century standards, so that in itself threw up many challenges,” said TAL’s Contracts Manager, Peter Carson.

The works have included reroofing, replacing damaged roof timbers, extensive repairs to the coffered ceiling, new heating, lighting, and A/V systems; a new organ case and restoration of the century-old organ; installation of an internal lift; disabled access facilities; the creation of an extension (to accommodate a meeting room, a small kitchen, WCs and ancillary services) and reordering the west end approach to create a dedicated entrance to the heritage displays which will be housed in the gallery of the building.

“A major achievement of the project was the sensitive removal of the 1970s Microcrete exterior paint.”

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project profile

Otherwise, the restoration included extensive roof works; complete replastering with lime render; tanking of underground walls; and stripping Microcrete (a 1970s mixture of cement, rubber and pigment used to ‘prevent’ damp) from the sandstone detailing.

The building has been completely redecorated, floodlit, and the grounds landscaped to the plans of Neil Porteous (National Trust). Almost all of the original fabric remains.

TECHNIQUES AND MATERIALS Historical techniques have been used, wherever possible. Exterior cement render was stripped and replaced with lime plaster; salvaged Bangor Blue slates were reused on the roof and old Scrabo stone was used for new steps and to replace old concrete steps.

Cast-iron railings were removed, reconditioned and reused (being supplemented with exact copies where needed) and the upper floor Art Deco windows, which were replaced with wooden sash windows, were reworked into new windows for the extension.

Whilst the building still functions as a church, its primary use is for the whole

community as an arts and heritage centre.

“One major achievement of the project was the sensitive removal of the 1970s Microcrete exterior paint,” said Peter.

“It was originally applied in a bid to prevent damp penetration. However, it trapped in damp as it was impermeable both ways. Where exposed to strong sunlight, the rubber component perished, and the membrane was falling off in patches. Where it remained, it trapped pockets of water which were damaging the stonework. Microcrete is impervious to chemical paint strippers. It was finally removed by three stonemasons with hand-held disc grinders and took six months, but with remarkable results.

Because the building had fallen into such a state of bad repair, TAL Ltd faced a number of other different challenges on the project. However, the difficulties they faced also highlighted the team’s expertise and experience in this type of project, and for each problem, a solution was found.

“Another difficulty we had was that the ground floor back corridor was externally underground,’ said Peter. ‘No tanking existed, and removal of the internal plaster revealed a metre thick water-

saturated wall. The wall was excavated down to six metres, tanked, membraned and backfilled with drainage. Internally the walls and ceiling were also membraned and drainage channels inserted. Using these techniques, we managed to transform what had been a damp, smelly corridor into a dry, attractive space.”

The restoration has generated considerable interest. In the long term, the building is structurally secure and, with its various and diverse income streams, should also be financially sound.

Project team...

Project value: £1.5million Client: friends of Portaferry Presbyterian Church Architect: Maxwell Pierce Architects Main Contractor: TAL Ltd Quantity Surveyor: Rainey & Best M&E Engineer: Semple McKillop Structural Engineer: BCD Partnership

TAL Ltd, Tal House, Lissue Industrial Estate East, Unit 1, 9 Lissue Walk, Lisburn, BT28 2LU T: 028 9262 2345 – E: construct@tal.ltd.uk www.tal.ltd.uk

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project profile

portico - portaferry Project

PAINTING CONTRACTOR

An attractive, durable and complementary paint job courtesy of NB Contract Painting added the final touches to the Portico project in Portaferry…

Superior paint job by NB Contract Painting

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ntrim firm, NB Contract Painting was responsible for the impressive paint finish on the Portico project in Portaferry.

Headed up by Norman Brunton, NB Contracts is extremely proud to have been part of such a prestigious restoration and conservation project with Dulux Trade and, says Norman, the firm looks forward to partnering on other specialised projects in the future.

Dulux Trade Durable Flat Matt was chosen for the project due to its excellent low sheen levels and durability. Low sheen levels were imperative for the Portico project to ensure an excellent standard of aesthetic finish. On top of this it also features built-in durability, allowing for any future marks to be washed away without damaging the paint work or need for repainting. It also has excellent coverage and opacity.

Dulux Trade Diamond Eggshell was also specified for its excellent stain resistance and scrubability, ensuring the project looks better for longer and keeps ongoing maintenance costs low. According to Dulux Trade, Diamond Technology is 10 times tougher than Dulux Trade Vinyl Silk and resistant to

typical household stains. It is also quickdrying and of low odour compared to solvent-based paints, and so isideal for use where minimum disruption is important.

The product can be used over surfaces previously decorated with solventbased paints, providing proper surface preparation is carried out. It is suitable for interior use on plaster, masonry and wood.

NB Contract Painting also used Armstead Trade Paints on the Portico project. This particular product was used to help create the marbling effect on the masonry and timber features (such as the pillars etc).

Dulux Trade Weathershield Exterior Gloss was used for the exterior woodwork. Part of a weather-resistant and flexible paint system from Dulux Trade, this paint was specifically developed to give longlasting, high gloss protection for exterior woodwork and allowed for an excellent finish to the external woodwork on the project, providing longevity protection for up eight years.

According to Dulux Trade, the unique formulation ensures that maintenance costs are kept to a minimum moving forward

through the life of the building.

Projects like these don’t come around very often, so when NB Contracts got the opportunity to participate they jumped at the chance.

“All of our 30 years plus experience was utilised on the Portico project. Each stage of the job called for specialised precision and techniques that we perhaps don’t get to showcase on other, more standard projects.

We had to ensure that all original 130 yearold structures were restored to their original appearance and that new areas were matched perfectly to the originals.

“In addition, old and new techniques of application were employed to complete the works. These ranged from graining of timberwork to spray application of coating over the Lime Plaster ceiling.”

As well as restoration projects like the Portico project, both Dulux Trade and NB Contract Painting are committed to ensuring excellent finishes and ongoing low maintenance needs on a wide range of sectors, with a portfolio that covers education, health, social housing and listed buildings, to name but a few.

NB Contract Painting, T: 07881 955 424 E: nbcontractpainting@mail.com

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JUST VANS PICK UPS MINIBUSES.

â&#x153;&#x201C; 165 Dromore Road, Hillsborough, bt26 6ja. E: bridgecommercials@hotmail.com www.bridgecommercials.co.uk

plaster

Readymix Plasters provide a faster alternative

Enjoy a faster finish than conventional plastering methods thanks to this spray-applied range from Knauf…

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raditional methods of plastering are being shown the door by the full range of spray-applied Airless Readymix Plasters from Knauf.

The rising popularity of the spray method of plaster application has given Knauf a great opportunity to reach new customers.

An extremely efficient alternative to conventional plastering methods, the Knauf range of Airless Readymix Plasters allows for a quicker installation while still giving the same high quality finish as traditional methods.

A more consistent finish, less material wastage and greater cost efficiency over the total cost of the project, were all reasons why specifiers selected Knauf Airless Readymix Plasters for the renovation of Village Hotels and Leisure’s first Village Urban Resort in Scotland.

McLaren & Co, the award-winning painting and decorating sub-contractor responsible for carrying out works at the luxury 148-bed Aberdeen hotel, were able to complete the job at a rate of 4-bedroomsper-day/20-per-week with two, two-man spray crews.

“The system really cuts down on the time required, as there is very little taping when compared to traditional methods, and it

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gives a far better surface finish,” said Alan Colvin, director of McLaren & Co. “Since it’s ready-mixed, the finish was consistent throughout the project and we could paint directly onto the surface with relatively little preparation – just sanding down.”

Alan first discovered the Knauf range at the Scottish Painting and Decorating Show in 2014 and realised it would be ideal for large scale projects like the Village Urban Resort Hotel where high quality and consistency are just as important as speed of application.

Manufactured from crushed and milled marble together with polymer and organic binders, Knauf plasters are faster and easier to apply as there is no need for any pre-mixing. The Airless Readymix Plaster range does not need a direct water supply on site and, because they are pre-mixed in the Knauf factories, it means they are the ideal consistency for spray application.

Applied using a high pressure piston pump machine, the Airless Readymix Plasters are applied three to four times faster than conventional methods. Drying times are fast enough to allow follow on trades to begin work within two days.

“We had been looking for a product like this for some time to speed up the process

and this is ideal, so we very keen to promote it. It’s very quick, very simple and even cuts down on the number of coats of paint you need to apply,” Alan explained.

With the construction industry also tackling the issue of sustainability, more and more clients are requiring BREEAM ratings of ‘Excellent’, and most tender documents require a statement of sustainable procedures. Readymix Plasters have strong sustainability credentials and have a material wastage of less than 1%.

Any product that is removed during the levelling process can be added straight back into the hopper/tub to be used again.

In an effort to further improve the speed and installation quality of spray applied plasters, Knauf recently added its latest innovation to the Readymix range. Knauf Airless Finish Light, a 2-in-1 finishing plaster, can be applied directly to smooth surfaces such as Knauf Plasterboards, composite boards or fair faced concrete surfaces. As well as a finishing product, the Airless Finish Light can be applied as a jointing product, directly to taped joints, eliminating the need for a secondary filler.

For further information, telephone 0179 542 4499, email info@knauf.co.uk or visit the website at www.knauf.co.uk

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Natural Stone and Landscaping Products

Italian high strength porcelain paving is just one of the many products available from the natural stone and hard landscaping products experts…

Emperor reigns at CED Stone Group

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ED Stone Group is one of the UK’s leading suppliers of natural stone and hard landscaping products.

Established for nearly 40 years and with depots nationwide, CED’s goal is to deliver high quality, ethically sourced material across the whole of the UK. Specialising in the supply of natural stone, CED has a variety of paving and flooring products for virtually any requirement.

CED’s vast stocks of paving include a number of sandstones, limestones, Yorkstones, granites, basalts and Emperor porcelain paving.

Emperor porcelain paving is a high strength porcelain paving that can be used both internally and externally. Manufactured in Italy, Emperor is produced to the highest standards, providing a surface that will require very little maintenance, enabling you to enjoy the beauty of natural stone and wood, but with all the benefits of porcelain.

Emperor porcelain paving is available in 12

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colours, including two woods, and is perfect for those who want to create a space that seamlessly leads from the inside, out.

In addition to the stocked products, CED can help source materials that are hard to find or that are not currently held in stock, and the company is confident that it can provide the perfect solution for you or your client.

CED also offers bespoke services, helping to ensure that materials can be crafted to suit your exact requirements. Whether you stipulate a unique size, bullnosing service, end caps or coping stones, as long as it’s stone, CED can supply it.

ALTERNATIVES A number of paving alternatives are also readily available, including setts, gravel, Dutch clay paviours and composite decking.

These provide attractive alternatives to traditional paving products and can help transform a regular space into something

more personalised and unique.

CED also stocks numerous other stone products including aggregates, boulders, cobbles, paddlestones, walling and various ancillary products. CED can help you achieve your perfect space. If it’s natural stone you want, if you can imagine it, CED can supply it.

For more information on CED’s products and services, visit the website at www. ced.ltd.uk or alternatively give the Ireland depot a call on 028 8225 8457.

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tools

TAKE ON THE TOUGHEST JOBS WITH THE NEW DRAPER EXPERT 1600W 230V 15KG BREAKER…

Powerful, hardwearing and portable

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rand-new to the Draper Expert range is a powerful breaker, delivering an impressive 45 joules of force.

The new breaker has a robust metal construction, making it an effective and efficient solution for most breaking jobs. It’s ideal for general demolition work and great for breaking old tarmac driveways, paths and heavier duty concrete slabs and footings. A durable, heavy duty carrying case is supplied with the breaker for protection and easy transportation.

Several other handy accessories come with the breaker too, including a flat chisel, pointed chisel, oil bottle, spare pair of carbon brushes and a spanner. For a powerful breaking performance that’s also convenient to transport, carry and store, the new Draper Expert 1600W 230V 15KG Breaker is well worth a look.

Draper Tools also offers all the personal protective clothing and accessories you’ll need when using a breaker, including ear and eye protection, safety gloves and dust masks.

For more information and stockist details, visit www.drapertools.com

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NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 127

news

New facility for Ireland’s leading metal recycling company benefits from insulated wall panels range…

Steadmans supplies products for Dublin metal recycling company

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combination of insulated wall panels and ancillary products from building products manufacturer, Steadmans, has been instrumental in the delivery of Hammond Lane Metal Co.’s new metal recycling facility in Dublin.

Ireland’s leading metal recycling company selected Lappin Engineering as product installers for the new facility which will be able to process a range of reclaimed metals, including components from motor vehicles.

To meet the company’s objectives, the Lappin Engineering team specified 1,000sqm of Steadmans’ 0.7mm Plastisol Flashings in Merlin Grey and Poppy Red; 5,000sqm of AS30 single skin cladding in Merlin Grey; and 2,000sqm of AS35 composite panel, again in Merlin Grey.

Manufactured to ISO 9001:2008, AS35 panels are environmentallyresponsible, provide excellent thermal performance and have a predicted service life of 40 years. Available in thicknesses ranging from 40mm to 137mm, the panels can be specified to achieve insulation U-values, aiding compliance with the latest L2 regulations, and are Loss Prevention Certification Board approved.

Commenting on the project, Lappin Engineering’s Managing Director, Brian Lappin, said, “We’re very happy with the completed Hammond Lane Metal Co. facility. We’ve worked with Steadmans on many past projects so we knew they would have the ideal products and technical support to ensure we met our client’s brief.

“As ever the products were easy to install, which saved both time and money. What’s more Phil Brady, Steadmans’ Area Sales Manager for Ireland, was always on hand to support with technical aspects of the installation.”

In addition to its headquarters site near Carlisle, Steadmans has facilities in Belfast, Northern Ireland, Uddingston, near Glasgow and Fyvie, Aberdeenshire.

For further information on Steadmans’ full range of products call 028 4066 0516 or 01 6974 78277, e-mail info@steadmans.co.uk or visit www.steadmans.co.uk

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urgently require the following…

Senior Contracts Manager for NI Senior Quantity Surveyors for NI x 2 Project Manager for NI Experienced Buyer Experienced Planner – min 5 years experience / knowledge of Asta Setting out Engineer Site Engineer General Foreman Finishing Foreman Closing date for applications is Monday 16 May 2016.

Please Send CV’s to the Personnel Director at

carnbanehouse@ohmg.com

Carnbane House, Shepherds Way, Carnbane Industrial Estate, Newry, Co. Down, BT35 6EE Tel: 028 3026 4662

NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 129

new products

Spring need not grow black with Safeguard Dryzone System paint n With low temperatures and high humidity being a feature of the late spring, the risk of condensation is great as home-owners keep heating on into the early summer. Black mould is a particular problem in tenanted properties where moisture build-up from cooking, showering and drying clothes condenses on cold surfaces when rooms are insufficiently ventilated. Guaranteed to protect against black mould for five years, Dryzone System Mould Resistant Emulsion Paint from Safeguard Europe provides lasting protection against the effects of condensation and is easily applied over standard paint finishes.

For more information, visit the website at www.dryzonesystem.com

EGGER unveils a lighter, stronger alternative to 38mm chipboard n EGGER UK has launched OSB HDX a brand new 30mm heavy duty, loadbearing OSB panel suitable for use in humid environments.

It replaces EGGER’s 38mm HDX chipboard and is the ideal solution for heavy duty loadbearing environments such as mezzanine flooring, racking, shelving, working platforms and decking, where P5 or P6 38mm chipboard would typically be used.

The low swelling properties of EGGER OSB HDX means it is less likely than P6 to pick up moisture which can lead to uneven floors. Another benefit for installers is it’s easy to fit.

With a tongue and groove profile on the two long edges, the panels are laid the same way as 38mm chipboard.

Due to it only being 30 mm thick, it’s 20% lighter, despite it being wider than a typical chipboard panel (675 mm as opposed to the standard 600 mm), the wider board means that it is easier to manoeuvre and quicker to lay. EGGER OSB HDX board dimensions are 2400 x 675 x 30 mm TG2.

EGGER UK specialises in the design and manufacture of structural flooring boards for use in both residential and commercial build projects throughout the UK and Ireland.

To find out more, contact the EGGER building products hotline on 0845 602 4444 or e-mail building.uk@egger.com or visit www.egger.co.uk

Collaboration between Quinn Building Products and SWC

New BSS App brings the branch to your phone or tablet

n Quinn Building Products’ in-house Technical Experts Team has collaborated with South West College’s (SWC’s) dynamic and diverse visual technologists and programmers to produce a new and exciting Virtual Reality (VR) home. By combining cutting edge technology with strategic thinking, Quinn Building Products has created an immersive virtual, physical and digital experience for customers to see for themselves the properties, performance and data of the products within the Quinn Lite and Quinn Therm insulation ranges.

For more information, telephone 08000 322 122 or visit www.quinn-buildingproducts.com

n Delivering up to minute news and information to tablets and smartphones, the new free mobile Application from BSS – the UK’s leading distributor of heating and pipeline products and services – is packed with useful features to help customers. Utilising GSM (Global System for Mobile communications), the Branch Finder details the nearest BSS branch to your current location, its opening hours and contact details, and the route from your current location to the branch, available in list or map view. The app is available to download for Android users at the Google Play site, while iPhone and iPad users can get it from the Apple App Store.

For more information, contact BSS Belfast on 028 9078 4000 or visit www.bssindustrial.co.uk

Beating damp with Safeguard Renovation Plaster n Dryzone Damp-Resistant Plaster is the latest addition to the Dryzone System of damp remedials and protection from Safeguard Europe – the UK’s leading specialist in damp- and waterproofing, and masonry repair solutions. An alternative to traditional plasters, Dryzone Damp-Resistant Plaster is a breathable pre-blended plaster developed to control dampness and salt migration in walls.

This latest addition to the Dryzone System now means Safeguard offers a complete suite of products to deliver – post-damp cause diagnosis – permanent damp proofing solutions, from preventing moisture ingress through to specialist replastering and mouldresistant decorating materials.

For more information, visit www.safeguardeurope.com/dryzone-system

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f o r a l i m i t e d p e r i o d o n ly

LISBURN | CRAIGANTLET | CARRYDUFF | POMEROY | Head Office | 50 Stoneyford Road | Lisburn | BT28 3SP t: 028 9264 8600 | f: 028 9264 8118 | e: info@stoneyford.com www.stoneyford.com