Refurb Renovation News Issue 31

Issue 31 2018

PENTHOUSE REFURBISHMENT FAR FROM TALL ORDER FOR KEMPER SYSTEM

Another Building at ‘risk’ is saved and gets the Selectaglaze treatment

SCHÖCK MAKES THERMALLY EFFICIENT BALCONY RETROFIT A REALITY

SHOWER CHIC BY

Hudson Reed ECOMERCHANT Wood fibre insulation ticks all the right boxes

‘Unitised Systems for All’

by Wojciech Brożyna - MD

ALUPROF UK

Warmup specialise in both Hydronic DQG (OHFWULF 8QGHUĹŁRRU +HDWLQJ Over 20 years of research driven knowledge and experience Optimised system design from experienced professionals Expert commissioning and aftersales support Dedicated team of Project Directors and managers with you 24/7

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MODULEO FLIES HIGH WITH PROJECT AT ONE OF EUROPE’S TALLEST BUILDINGS

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SCHÖCK MAKES THERMALLY EFFICIENT BALCONY RETROFIT A REALITY

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SHOWER CHIC BY HUDSON REED

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MAINMARK: DON’T BE PUT OFF BUYING PROPERTY FROM AUCTIONEERS, SAYS GROUND ENGINEERING EXPERTS

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ROCKWOOL AND C40 TO COLLABORATE ON URBAN BUILDING RENOVATION

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AET FLEXIBLE SPACE UNDERFLOOR AIR CONDITIONING FIT-OUT AT HANOVER STREET

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MARMOX THE WONDER OF WETROOMS

32 VELUX® DAYLIGHT

RINNAI HOT WATER – INSTANT, CONTINUOUS, LIMITLESS AND SENSIBLY ECONOMIC FOR ALL TYPES OF COMMERCIAL SITES - THE SOLO STORED RANGE

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ANOTHER BUILDING AT ‘RISK’ IS SAVED AND GETS THE SELECTAGLAZE TREATMENT

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BISON DOORS AND WINDOWS OFFER MORE CHOICE THAN EVER BEFORE

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‘UNITISED SYSTEMS FOR ALL’ BY WOJCIECH BROŻYNA - MD ALUPROF UK

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A UNIFORM REFURBISHMENT FOR GEZE UK

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PENTHOUSE REFURBISHMENT FAR FROM TALL ORDER FOR KEMPER SYSTEM

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ROBIN MACKENZIE PARTNERSHIP EXCELLENCE IN ACOUSTICS

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AGGREGATE INDUSTRIES’ ROOFING CREATES NATURAL AESTHETICS FOR ECO-FRIENDLY SUPERMARKET

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ECOMERCHANT WOOD FIBRE INSULATION TICKS ALL THE RIGHT BOXES

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WERNERCO A SAFETY TOWER ABOVE THE REST

Contents Assistant Editor Georgina Baxter editorial@rrnews.co.uk

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Sales Manager David Valentine david@rrnews.co.uk

Designer Matthew Ryan matthew@rrnews.co.uk

www.rrnews.co.uk

Sales Assistant Jane Parker jane@rrnews.co.uk

Reprographics Laura Whitehead laura@rrnews.co.uk

Publishing Editor Paul Attwood paul@rrnews.co.uk

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Issue 31 2018

very effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of material published in Refurb & Renovation News however, the publishers accept no responsibility for the claims or opinions made by advertisers, manufactures or contributors.

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Latest News

Renishaw supports UK and India business ties On April 19th, 2018, Rhydian Pountney, Managing Director of Renishaw UK Sales Limited, attended the Access India event as part of the Make in India initiative.

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et alongside a backdrop of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in London, UK, the event gave British small and medium enterprises (SMEs) the opportunity to meet with large manufacturing businesses and government representatives, to facilitate bilateral investment and help SMEs to set up Indian manufacturing operations.

The Make in India initiative was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in September 2014 to strengthen the Indian design and manufacturing industries. The Access India Programme (AIP) is a newly launched scheme, specifically aimed at innovative SMEs in the UK, which forms part of the Make in India Initiative. Led by India’s Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP), the programme is run in conjunction with the Indian High Commission in London and the UK India Business Council (UKIBC).

The first event, hosted at Buckingham Gate, was attended by Mr Ramesh Abhishek, Secretary of the DIPP, who was introduced to major UK investors in India and SMEs on the AIP. Companies in attendance included Renishaw, BAE Systems, Rolls Royce, JCB, Perkins Engines and TVS Supply Chain Solutions.

At the event, Renishaw presented Mr Ramesh Abhishek with a stainless steel, 3D printed Make in India logo to commemorate the day and showcase Renishaw’s Additive Manufacturing Solutions Centre in Pune, India.

As part of his role, Rhydian Pountney acts as a mentor for the first 24 SMEs selected for the AIP programme,

offering support and advice on how to set up operations in India.

“Trade between India and the UK is on the rise,” explained Pountney. “Leading this trend are large, multinational companies. To facilitate stronger trade links and increased UK investment in India, the AIP encourages SMEs to learn from the successes of multinationals with a long-standing, established presence in India.

“This allows UK SMEs to access the benefits of

opening facilities in India,” continued Pountney. “India offers a strong technical skill base, one of the fastest growing economies and a good location to export to the rest of Asia and beyond.”

Renishaw has been trading in India for more than 30 years and created a wholly owned subsidiary in Bangalore in 2000. The company now employs over 400 people across five offices, which includes a manufacturing facility, R&D operations and an Additive Manufacturing Solutions Centre. For more information on Renishaw visit www.renishaw.com.

‘Nothing stopping us to change the culture of building industry now’ Local Authority Building Control – the body that represents all local authority building control teams in England and Wales – is calling for the building industry to work together to change its culture.

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he call came at a recent Fire Safety seminar, organised by RIBA by the not-for-profit organisation’s Commercial Director, Martin Taylor. Martin has been closely involved in the Hackitt Review sitting on two working groups – the design, construction and refurbishment group and the crucial ‘Golden Thread’ group.

This group focussed on ways of preserving the original design intent throughout

complex and high risk building projects and making sure any changes go through a formal review process.

Martin explained, “Dame Judith Hackitt has challenged the industry to change following the dreadful Grenfell Tower fire. Our view is all parts must come together to change the culture now and not wait for any changes to the regulations and guidance.

“For too long there has been a race to the bottom where building clients have been looking for the least interference at the least cost. And we all know where that race ended up.

A more cooperative outlook with competition over quality and competencies rather than just price will benefit the industry as a whole and lead to better, safer and more compliant building projects.”

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HBA: New Housing Secretary needs to value SMEs’ contribution

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Following Sajid Javid’s appointment as home secretary, Theresa May has nominated James Brokenshire MP as the new secretary of state for housing, communities and local government.

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he House Builders Association (HBA) – the house building division of the National Federation of Builders (NFB) – congratulates Mr Brokenshire on his appointment and looks forward to working with

him to promote the importance of SME house builders.

Richard Beresford, chief executive of the NFB, said: “SMEs have a crucial role in building communities

and place-making across all regions of the UK. SMEs have a unique understanding of their local communities and smaller development face less opposition.

Latest News Small builders resilient despite material price hikes, says FMB The workloads of small and medium-sized (SME) construction firms grew slightly in the first three months of this year despite record numbers of builders reporting rising material prices, according to the Federation of Master Builders (FMB).

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ey results from the FMB’s latest State of Trade Survey, which is the only quarterly assessment of the UK-wide SME construction sector, include:

t Construction SME workloads remained positive in Q1 2018 but grew at a slower rate than in Q4 2017;

t The construction SME sector has now enjoyed five years of consecutive growth;

t More construction SMEs predict rising workloads in the coming three months, up from 38% in the previous quarter to 49% in Q1 2018;

t 90% of builders reported increasing material prices in Q1 2018, this is the highest reading on record;

t More than half (58%) of construction SMEs are struggling to hire bricklayers and 55% are struggling to hire carpenters and joiners;

t Two-thirds (66%) of construction SMEs expect salaries and wages to increase during the next six months, up from 62% in the previous quarter.

Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said: “Workloads for builders continued to grow in the first quarter of 2018 despite the ‘Beast from the East’ wreaking havoc across the UK’s construction sites.

However, once again, the growth we are seeing is slower than in the previous three months and this can be partly attributed to pressure from rising costs.

Indeed, 90% of builders reported increasing material prices in the first three months of 2018 and this is the highest reading on record. Insulation, bricks and timber are the materials that have increased the most and builders are predicting that these price increases will continue. We are also seeing increased salaries for tradespeople stemming from the acute skills crisis and that, coupled with material price hikes, are squeezing margins and stifling growth for construction firms of all sizes.”

Berry concluded: “In terms of house building, these latest results should sound some alarm bells with the workloads of SME house builders dropping off in the first quarter of this year. In 2017/18, 197,000 homes were started in England but this is some way off the Government’s target to build 300,000 homes per year.

The FMB has worked closely with the Government to identify how to remove barriers to small local house builders, but these latest results act as a reminder that there is more to be done. The FMB would now like to see the continued and speedy implementation of some positive Government policies designed to bring forward more small sites, properly resource planning departments and increase the flow of finance to SME house builders.

If we are to reach our ambitious house building targets, we cannot rely solely on the largest house builders.”

Centre to help plug flooding skills gap launched at Brunel A new centre to help bolster the UK’s defences against flooding has launched at Brunel University London.

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he Centre for Flood Risk and Resilience (CFR2) – which has been developed in partnership with the Environment Agency, and the environmental organisations HR Wallingford, Jacobs, ICE Blue and CIWEM – aims to help fill the skills gap currently faced by the sector.

Backed by £200,000 from HEFCE’s Catalyst Fund, CFR2 will offer a suite of Chartered Institution of Water and Environment Management (CIWEM) accredited e-learning programmes aimed at professionals, before being expanded to include Brunel’s undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral courses in Flood and Coastal Engineering, which have run at the university since 2017.

The first e-learning courses are expected to go online in mid-September.

Professor Tassos Karayiannis of Brunel’s College of Engineering, Design and Physical Sciences and Director of the CFR2, said: “The Centre will complement our existing undergraduate and postgraduate courses in Flood and Coastal Engineering, which are offered alongside HR Wallingford and supported by the Environment Agency.

e-learning materials developed with our partners for new learners at both pre and post-university level, and at the same time offer an opportunity for an upgrade to professionals working in the field.

“This will help reduce the national and international skills gap for professionals working in this multidisciplinary field.”

The Catalyst Fund, launched by HEFCE before it became the Office for Students, aims to support the Government’s Industrial Strategy by developing the curriculum in areas of national importance. In total, £6.1m was awarded to 30 universities across the UK, with Brunel receiving the maximum amount possible for a single institution.

Terry Fuller, Chief Executive of CIWEM, said: “The training of professionals to meet our global challenges of flood and coastal erosion risk management is a priority for CIWEM. We are pleased to support the development and accreditation of the courses offered by the centre”

Paul Cross, Senior Skills, Efficiency and Resilience Advisor at the Environment Agency, said: “The Centre for Flood Resilience holds a great deal of promise and potential to enhance the skills and capabilities of those working in the sector, empower communities at risk through education and inspire future generations to forge an exciting career within the sector.”

“The Centre will provide new CIWEM accredited

With the share of SME house builders witnessing an 80% decline over the last three decades, the number of home completions went down from 242,360 in 1988-89 to 178,450 in 2016-17.

Photography by William Warby

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“Carillion has, hopefully, taught us not to put too much faith in the market’s larger players delivering on public aspirations. A more diverse market that encourages SME participation is key to fixing the housing crisis.”

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Moduleo

An office on the 32nd floor of 25 Canada Square, one of Europe’s tallest buildings, has been given a new lease of life thanks to luxury vinyl flooring specialist, Moduleo.

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ocated at the epicentre of Canary Wharf, the 350 sqm office space has been transformed into a light and flexible working environment for energy market research consultancy, Energy Aspects.

The eight-week, six-figure project was specified by Oktra Reach and installed by Affinity Flooring.

The design utilised zoning to distinguish and differentiate areas within the space, which comprised a reception, bar, meeting rooms and even a games space, complete with a ping pong table.

Moduleo Impress Country Oak 54925 was installed in the majority of the project, complemented by carpet laid within areas which would receive less footfall.

Dan Glater, project director at Oktra Reach, said: “This project had quite a quick turnaround, so we needed a quality product with short lead times.

“Our brief was for a modern and airy working environment and the flooring works beautifully in conjunction with the floor-toceiling glazing to reflect the light around the floorplate.

“We’re extremely pleased that our flooring was specified in such a high-profile scheme and it looks really impressive with London’s skyline in the background.” David Bigland, managing director at Moduleo UK and Eire

“The client’s requirement to host events from time to time dictated the need to create flow through the space with a hard-wearing product that would withstand heavy footfall and Moduleo certainly ticked all those boxes.

Sophie Bayliss, from Affinity Flooring, added: “We’ve installed Moduleo several times and it’s a really nice product to work with.

“It’s well engineered and looks great when it’s laid, so we couldn’t ask for much more than that.”

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David Bigland, managing director at Moduleo UK and Eire, concluded: “We’re extremely pleased that our flooring was specified in such a high-profile scheme and it looks really impressive with London’s skyline in the background.

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“Whilst arguably there’s still work to be done to convince consumers of the many benefits of LVT, commercial projects like this are a great example of the look and feel that can be achieved with engineered alternatives to natural materials.”

For more information, visit www. moduleo.co.uk or contact the Moduleo team on 01332 851 500.

Express yourself with Impress® Floors of unparalleled realism for unprecedented creativity.

Updating our Impress range, Moduleo bring you a new selection of Naturally impressive and Expressive floors.

Authentic wood and slate patterns will leave the timeless mark of nature on any interior, while our abstract designs allow you to create a unique look only possible in LVT flooring.

For more information and samples please call 01332 851500 or email salesuk@moduleo.com

moduleo.co.uk/impress

Co-ordinating an OďŹƒce to Resi Conversion in Croydon With residential development sites proving difficult to come by, particularly in the fast-paced and competitive South East marketplace, developers are increasingly turning to renovation projects to reinvent former commercial buildings as contemporary apartments.

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ne such project is Leon House, a 263 unit residential scheme by developer, Arcus, in partnership FI Real Estate, in the heart of Croydon.

The development has been designed to maximise the footprint and interior space in the 20-storey, mid-twentieth century building while offering luxury living that is both opulent and timeless.

To achieve this transformation, the building has been stripped right back to shell and core, creating a minimalist interior aesthetic with a neutral colour palette and a modern, classic style. Glazed elevations make the most of natural light in every apartment while a roof top terrace, created as a space to dine and socialise for residents, is central to the scheme’s urban oasis proposition.

As with any apartment development, design and specification of the kitchens was critical to delivering a finished interior that will appeal to a wide demographic of both buy to live purchasers and private rental investors.

As with any apartment development, design and specification of the kitchens was critical to delivering a finished interior that will appeal to a wide demographic of both buy to live purchasers and private rental investors.

The design brief was for a cohesive approach across all apartments, which includes a wide range of kitchen sizes and layouts, with materials that both complement the wider interior design style and deliver a low maintenance, high quality and durable solution.

Contract Kitchen specialist, Commodore Kitchens worked closely with the developer and the interior designer to ensure both the practical and aesthetic considerations of this brief were met, with a remit to custommanufacture and install around 3,400 kitchen units and more than xxm2 of worktops within a seven month programme.

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Conversion Challenges

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The redevelopment of Leon House as a residential scheme involved a number of challenges from the perspective of designing the kitchens to fit the existing shell and change of purpose.

Kitchen layouts were dictated to a significant extent by the building configuration, which resulted in a total of ten kitchen layouts,

L-shaped variations, all utilising the same unit type and finishes.

Explains Darren Mahoney from Commodore Kitchens: “We had to design the layout to provide a space-efficient approach to maximising the kitchen area, storage space and work area without over-sizing the kitchen relative to the total apartment footprint.

“Kitchen layouts also had to answer building regulations requirements for fire safety, with no ovens or hobs positioned next to a means of escape. For some of the apartments, existing pillars and structural supports were also a consideration and we had to design the layout around these parameters.”

Design Criteria The interior-designed scheme combines contemporary loft-living style accommodation fitted out to a very high standard with an enduring specification that will not date and will also stand the test of time in terms of durability and service life.

Each apartment contains a total of 12-13 kitchen units with handless drawers and cupboards in a pressed lacquer finish that looks hand-painted but is highly resilient to marks and abrasions and will not show fingerprints. The solid Carrera marble-effect worktops are similarly robust, with a seamless effect that runs across the work surfaces and the splashbacks for a cohesive and easy to clean finish.

Commodore Kitchens’ Jason Burgess continues: “Thanks to the demands of the varied layouts and the design team’s requirement for taller wall cabinets that extend up to ceiling level, there was considerable custom-manufacturing involved in creating bespoke units to order.

“Sequencing of the installation and close co-ordination between the design team, our in-house workshop and the team on site have been a critical factor in keeping the tight installation programme on track.

Every kitchen has been surveyed on site to ensure the units fit accurately, enabling us to achieve 25 kitchen installations every week and target zero snagging at the end of the programme.”

The compact, minimalist look is supported by integrated appliances, including multifunctional ovens, ceramic hobs, fridgefreezers and dishwashers. A utility cupboard in the hallway discreetly and hygienically positions the washing machine away from the kitchen space.

Installation Expertise While most new build projects involve a kitchen installation programme that rises up the building, the conversion process for Leon House has resulted in a more complex schedule, working around other trades in a non-sequential plan.

Robin Barton from Arcus comments: “Working with a kitchen supplier that provides in-house design, production and installation has been critical on this project as it means Commodore Kitchens have been able to tweak production schedules, working around site requirements without impacting on lead times or falling behind programme.”

The Commodore Kitchens team carefully co-ordinated kitchen plans with the design team, aligning production schedules with the installation programme to enable a plugand-play fit out on site. Each unit required the addition of the partition wall and a raised floor to lift the kitchen units off the slab, so accurate drawings and close collaboration have been critical.

Commodore Kitchens’ Andrew Lee continues: “Accurate measurement of each unit is essential to ensure that each item fits perfectly in the allocated space and connects easily to first fix services.

“Our aim with Leon House has been to take a tired office building, maximise the potential of its architectural features and reinvent it with apartments that can be accessorised by individual occupiers to complement the neutral interior. The specification of the kitchens has been critical in this regard.” Robin Barton, Arcus “By providing detailed plans to the main contractor, we have been able to ensure that internal walls have been built to the layout required by each kitchen and this attention to detail has allowed us to achieve our target of 25 kitchen installation per week throughout the programme so far.”

From Office Block to Community The transformation of Leon House into contemporary living spaces is still ongoing, with all kitchens due for completion by August 2018. The timeless, neutral appeal of the interiors is already turning heads; with a busy show apartment providing a glimpse of what the finished scheme will look like, phase 1 is completely sold out and phase 2 is already 70 per cent reserved.

“Meanwhile, we also aim to create a real sense of community with shared spaces at ground and roof level, including the residents’ lounge, the co-working space and rooftop private dining, ensuring that this development becomes much more than a standard block of flats.”

RRNews - Issue 31

Robin Barton adds: “Our aim with Leon House has been to take a tired office building, maximise the potential of its architectural features and reinvent it with apartments that can be accessorised by individual occupiers to complement the neutral interior. The specification of the kitchens has been critical in this regard.

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PERFECT MATCH GROHE CERAMICS MADE TO MATCH IN FORM AND FUNCTION It isn’t easy to find the perfect bathroom. But with GROHE Cube Ceramic it couldn’t be simpler.

All ceramics are designed and engineered to harmonise perfectly with basin mixers, shower heads and sanitary systems. Also discover GROHE Bau Ceramic and GROHE Euro Ceramic. ceramics.grohe.com

Shower Chic by Hudson Reed The latest showering collection from bathroom specialist, Hudson Reed, embraces the very latest designs and innovations from the showering sector

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rom enclosures to wetroom screens, and valves to shower kits, the spectrum of products feature state-of- the-art technology and designer-inspired style.

The newest additions to the range include two Walk-Through Wetroom Screens (bottom right). t Luxuriously designed, this range is available with double ceiling posts or double support arms with chrome retainer feet and comes in six sizes from 700mm to 1400mm in width. Teamed with slimline 40mm flush wetroom trays and the look is clean, streamlined and flawless. With 8mm toughened safety glass, the screens balance beauty with safety and Hudson Reed’s Shower Shield technology ensures the glass is treated with an easy clean coating that repels water and prevents the build-up of limescale.

For wall-fixed wetroom screens, the company also offers a good selection of designs (right). t Like all the products from Hudson Reed’s Glass range, the screens are aesthetically and functionally designed to the highest levels and made to last – hence the lifetime guarantee.

This wall-fixed wetroom screen includes a support bar and is available in widths from 700mm to 1400mm with a height of 1950mm. Optional extras include a 215mm return screen, a 300mm hinged return screen and a 300mm ceiling post.

To complement the luxurious range of wetroom screens and enclosures from Hudson Reed, a comprehensive range of shower valves, heads and kits are available, many of them Made in Britain and manufactured to the highest standards. In fact, a selection of thermostatic shower valves contain the company’s patented Valquest cartridge, which includes many unique benefits, not least the simple installation and easy maintenance.

Pictured (bottom left) t is the ART Triple Thermostatic Shower Valve with Square Tile Body Jets and Fixed Square Ceiling Mounted Head. This triple control shower features the precision engineered, Valquest cartridge and is manufactured at Hudson Reed’s Halifax site by a dedicated team. This shower offers accurate flow control and excellent flow rates even at low pressure (capable of delivering 5.5 litres of water per minute at 0.1 bar pressure). The cartridge is in fact fully reversible, meaning if hot and cold supplies are the wrong way round, it doesn’t need re-plumbing - simply remove the cartridge, turn 180˚ and replace.

Highly resistant to calcium build-up, even in hard water areas, the cartridge offers full thermal protection to prevent scalding and thermostatic control to +/-2 degrees.

RRNews - Issue 31

To complement the luxurious range of wetroom screens and enclosures from Hudson Reed, a comprehensive range of shower valves, heads and kits are available, many of them Made in Britain and manufactured to the highest standards.

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For Further Information or to request a brochure please visit: www.hudsonreed.co.uk. Hudson Reed: Tel: 01422 417100.

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Company News Mather+Stuart continues rapid national expansion Mather+Stuart Power Solutions, the temporary power equipment division of A-Plant, is set to continue its national network expansion with the launch of a new service centre in Norwich this spring.

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ollowing its acquisition by A-Plant in 2016, Mather+Stuart has experienced a period of rapid growth, opening nine new centres in just two years.

The latest site, which is scheduled to open its doors in East Anglia this May, comes on the back of new openings in Scotland in February 2018 and the South East in November last year.

Director of Mather+Stuart, Gary Orton, said the company now has a presence in most regions around the UK. He said: “Before A-Plant acquired Mather+Stuart in 2016, we had just one branch in Wigan, Standish.

“Over the past two years we have been steadily growing our national network and now have nine service centres from Scotland to Southampton and Aberdeen to Avonmouth.

Bristan advance up Sunday Times Top 100 Bristan Group, parent company of Bristan, the UK’s leading shower and tap company and Heritage Bathrooms, has shot up the rankings in this year’s ‘Sunday Times Best Companies to Work For’ list.

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oming in at 61st - nine places ahead of its 2017 position – the ranking is a testament to Bristan’s ongoing commitment to its ‘Great Place to Work’ strategy, which focusses on employee engagement across both Bristan and Heritage Bathrooms brands.

The prestigious ‘Sunday Times Best Companies to Work For’ list is compiled every year by independent workplace specialist, Best Companies, following a national survey of employees. This year, a total of 261,559 people from 799 companies completed the respected workplace survey, which ranks Britain’s biggest and best employers.

Jeremy Ling, CEO for Bristan Group, commented: “Having this achievement recognised on a national scale is fantastic – and knowing that we’re improving up the rankings is even

better. We are dedicated to continually making strides in enhancing our workplace environment in order to make it the best it can be for our staff.

Our ‘Great place to Work’ strategy is a key part of engaging all our employees to be empowered and work together to achieve success, individually and collectively. Rising up the rankings by nine places is a great achievement, and we’ll aim to be ever better next year.”

The list, published in the Sunday Times, is the latest in a long line of achievements for the company, which in recent years has celebrated awards and nominations, including ‘Excellence in Leadership and Management’ from Investors in People, and UK Customer Experience awards.

Bristan is a market leading supplier of domestic and commercial bathroom products. For more information visit www.bristan.com “Launching a tenth centre in Norwich means that we are well on our way to owning a site in every region around the country.”

The company’s rapid expansion has seen its fleet more than triple in size, from 650 generators in January 2016 to over 2,000 generators in March 2018. During this period almost £2m has also been invested in fuel tanks and there has been a further £1m investment in distribution.

Mather+Stuart will continue to invest in its fleet throughout 2018, to ensure it remains the UK’s market leader.

Gary said: “This year we will be making a multimillion pound investment in new equipment.

“We continually update our fleet to ensure that our customers hire reliable, safe, environmentally friendly equipment, that incorporates the latest technology.”

RRNews - Issue 31

Mather+Stuart was founded in 1992. The company originally focused on the rental of welding machines and associated equipment from a single site in Wigan, Standish.

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Today, Mather+Stuart specialise in the hire of temporary power equipment, including generators up to 1250kVA, hybrid power, fuel tanks, fuel management and cabling and distribution from service centres all across the country.

NEWS: YOUNG 2.0 TOTAL BLACK

MINIMALISM AND CLEAN LINES With a whole host of exciting product features, such as showering height of 2000mm, through to the minimal matt black, matt white of polished chrome profiling giving the enclosure a sleek and luxurious look. Coupled with the rise and fall door mechanism and the versatility to be installed on a shower tray or tiled floor, the Young collection gives you a multitude of showering options and fantastic value for money. Combine this with our Novosolid stone shower tray with its anti-slip stone texture, stain and UV resistant, hidden 90mm fast flow waste and can be cut down to size on site to fit difficult spaces.

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Case Study

Spotlight on Mental Health in the Construction Industry

Sarah Wales

By Solicitors Kara Price and Sarah Wales at transatlantic law firm Womble Bond Dickinson What’s the problem?

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ale site workers in construction are three times more likely to commit suicide than the average UK male.

This shocking mental health statistic is a vivid reminder of the difficulties faced by many working in the construction industry every day. Troubling data from the Office of National Statistics found that between 2011 and 2015, of the 13,232 in-work suicides recorded, those within the skilled construction and building trades made up 13.2 per cent – despite construction accounting for little over 7 per cent of the UK workforce.

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Why construction?

The construction industry lifestyle is undoubtedly both challenging and stressful.

Long and demanding working hours, working away from home on site for weeks at a time and the lingering unease in the industry, particularly following Carillion’s recent collapse, are just some of the factors contributing to poor mental health. In a workforce that is predominantly male, specific risks associated with male mental health also need to be considered. The “tough guy” image widespread in the construction industry is very much to blame. Asking for help and opening up about emotions are just not things that come naturally to many of those working in the industry. The combination of these factors results in many suffering in silence.

Know the signs Whilst poor mental health can manifest itself differently from individual to individual,

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the Construction Financial Management Association has set out some useful signs to look out for that can indicate poorly managed or untreated mental health conditions: • increased lateness, absenteeism and presenteeism (showing up to work physically, but not being able to function); • decreased productivity due to distraction and cognitive slowing; • lack of self-confidence; • isolation from peers; • agitation and increased interpersonal conflict among co-workers; • increased voluntary and involuntary attrition; • increased feelings of being overwhelmed; and

2. Culture change – A change in the culture surrounding mental health needs to start at the top. Leadership teams can show commitment to creating a culture change towards mentally healthier workplaces and workforces by signing the Time to Change Pledge or by investing in a Workplace Wellbeing Strategy to create culture change in a safe and structured manner; 3. Mental health safety net – Employers should ensure their employees have access to and are aware of support available through counselling and therapy services; 4.Up-skilling and education – Team leaders responsible for supporting employees should have sufficient knowledge and skills to be able to spot the signs of poor mental health and to provide support and guidance;

• decreased problem solving ability.

What can employers do?

The statistics as they stand are clearly unacceptable – mental health needs to be made an urgent priority by all employers in the construction industry. Emily Pearson, Head of Workplace Wellbeing at Be. The Centre for Wellbeing (a mental health charity based in Newcastle upon Tyne specialising in corporate mental health and workplace wellbeing) has provided the following steps that all employers can take to actively improve the health and wellbeing of their workforce.

1. Culture check - Undertake a culture check to establish the culture of the workforce and where there may be particular pain points for staff due to job design and work related stress;

5. Peer support – Employers should up-skill and educate employees so they can look out for any peers who may be struggling with their mental health. Knowing how to start the conversation and knowing how to safely signpost peers to mental health services can make a huge difference at the early signs of mental health difficulty; 6. Reduce stigma – Employers need to reduce stigma, raise awareness, change attitudes and provide knowledge to empower employees to look after their mental health and wellbeing; 7. Embed and repeat – It is essential that employers continue to provide these interventions, services and training in order to embed culture change – not just tick the mental health box.

Case Study Commercial Factors Employers need to prioritise mental health in the workplace for commercial reasons too. Unrecognised and unsupported mental health issues can have a massive impact on a company’s revenue. According to the National Building Specification, mental health issues account for people taking almost 70 million days off sick per year – the most of any health condition – costing the UK economy between £70 billion and £100 billion a year.

What can everyone do?

Established in 2016 by the Health in Construction Leadership Group with the support of the British Safety Council, Mates in Mind, aims to make sense of the options and support available to employers and individuals.

As well as providing guidance for employers, it also provides useful tools for employees.

But the easiest thing that we can all do is talk. If you are concerned about a colleague, ask them if they’re ok. See if they want to go for a walk or a cup of tea at lunchtime. Generally create a safe environment so they can open up to you if they need to.

Even if you don’t suspect a colleague is struggling, be careful of the language you use anyway. Insensitive words or phrases can increase the stigma surrounding mental health and make it even harder for the people around you to feel like they can talk about any issues they’re facing.

Conclusion Physical health and safety is already taken extremely seriously in the construction industry however statistics suggest that the most dangerous thing on a building site is the human mind. In a time where suicide kills more people in the construction industry than falls from height, it is only right that mental health and safety is given the same level of thought, time and investment as other site hazards to ensure that the workers in the industry are truly protected.

The industry has taken steps to reduce the stigma around mental health and to improve support but there is more that each and every one of us can do just by being aware of the signs and encouraging people to talk. Do not underestimate the impact you can make just by talking to someone. You could change someone’s life.

STOCRETEC CONCRETE REPAIR SOLUTION ENSURES A LONG LIFE FOR BRANDY BRIDGE A package of StoCretec concrete repair products recently introduced into the UK market have provided the perfect solution for the refurbishment of a major road bridge in Wales. The project has seen the completion of the first of three piers of Brandy Bridge at Merthyr Tydfil, fully restored using StoCrete TV 308 flowable mortar, TG 203 repair mortar, TF 204 fairing coat, StoCryl GQ Primer and StoCryl V700 protective coating.

Kara Price

REMMERS EXHIBITS AT HAYWARD GALLERY

A package of StoCretec concrete repair products recently introduced into the UK market have provided the perfect solution for the refurbishment of this major road bridge at Merthyr Tydfil in Wales.

“We specified the StoCrete TV 308 on this project for a number of reasons,” explains Jim Cooper, of Nottingham-based Churchill Specialist Contracting who undertook the refurbishment work.

“This is a very high bridge that spans a railway line, a river and a gorge, so to assess the extent of the repair work required was challenging. To adhere to the project schedule, we needed a repair mortar which would cure and achieve a high strength as quickly as possible. StoCrete TV 308 could achieve that, while also offering the extremely low degree of shrinkage which was another major requirement for us.”

StoCrete TV 308 reaches a compressive strength in excess of 40N/mm2 within just 24 hours, yet also exhibits incredibly low shrinkage. Its low E-modulus means it’s flexible and very strong, making it ideal for fast repairs to civil engineering structures such as bridges and viaducts. The rapid strength gain shortens project times significantly, creating massive cost-savings and reducing disruption to road users. This project also demonstrates StoCrete TV 308’s suitability for use with a cathodic protection system, which was also installed as part of the works.

Remmers ‘Arte Mundit’ was applied to remove the decades of superficial dirt that had built up on the concrete walls and ceilings. Arte Mundit is a self-vulcanising cleaning paste that dries into a peelable natural latex. It provides thorough water-free removal of residues to varied substrates and there is no development of dust making it the ideal product for specialised restoration projects. www.remmers.co.uk | Email: sales@remmers.co.uk | Tel: 01293 594010

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Using the StoCrete TV 308 alongside other StoCretec products allowed Churchill’s to source all the concrete repair and protection products they required directly from a single specialist manufacturer. After other works were completed using StoCrete TG 203 polymer-modified repair mortar and StoCrete TF 204 cementitious protective fairing coat, the concrete areas were treated with the quartz-filled StoCryl GQ Primer. This provided a reliable surface onto which the StoCryl V 700 protective coating was applied. StoCryl V 700’s innovative formulation creates a surface coating which repels water very efficiently, allowing the surface to dry far more rapidly than with traditional finishes, thus reducing the likelihood of algae, fungal growth and unsightly staining. www.sto.co.uk/stocretec

The world-renowned Hayward Gallery is a contemporary art gallery within Southbank Centre in London. As part of a two-year restoration project, Remmers restoration products were selected by Cemplas, to complete extensive concrete repair and renovation works to the internal architectural concrete elements of this prestigious major arts venue.

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Awards News School featuring VIVIX façade finalist in LABC Central Building Excellence Awards Silsoe Church of England VC Lower has been shortlisted in the Best Educational Building category in the LABC Central region’s Building Excellence Awards. The awards celebrate outstanding buildings, companies, partnerships and individuals that go that extra mile.

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hen David Turnock Architects were commissioned to design the new Silsoe Church of England VC Lower School layout, a compact building plan was requested to keep construction costs to a minimum. With a fabric first approach and emphasis on energy efficiencies, VIVIX® by Formica Group was specified for the facade.

The design brief called for a blend of natural woodgrains to be placed in a random pattern

Delapre Abbey project takes regional RICS conservation award The £6.1m Delapre Abbey restoration project has won the regional Building Conservation Awards from the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) last night in Nottingham.

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he project, funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and Northampton Borough Council, was designed to bring the Abbey back into public use for the first time in 900 years.

The complex project, designed by architects, Purcell, saw original rooms brought back to life as a public resource – with people able to hold community events, use it as a wedding venue and visit as a member of the public. The project was supported along the way by the Delapre Preservation Trust.

The project took home the Building Conservation title at the RICS Awards this week.

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Delapre Abbey is a project that has evidently been developed, thought through and considered with various uses and end users being established to warrant this investment in the area’s heritage.

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The research into the history of the property and surrounding area, plus the subsequent work undertaken at Delapre, is of an exacting standard that both reflects the 1860’s key date but also a modern requirement, that is rejuvenating this site and securing the future of Delapre Abbey for generations to come Woodhead’s highly skilled site team began the project with the excavation of the basement area, from which they removed 200 tonnes of earth and rubble infill by hand, carefully exposing rooms that hadn’t been seen for hundreds of years.

The project also involved the creation of an orangery, housing a cafe to serve the visitors to the Abbey.

During the restoration Woodhead discovered a medieval cellar, which has now been preserved

beneath the new kitchen, and one of the more obscure finds – a plunge pool!

Paul Haythorne, Heritage Manager, said: “Working on historic buildings such as Delapre Abbey, is such a privilege. As we sensitively peel back the building’s history and restore it for the local community and visitors to the Abbey. It’s fantastic news to have been named in the RICS shortlist, but to have won our category is truly an honour.”

Two other Woodhead projects were finalists at the regional RICS Awards. The conservation of Grade I Listed Castle Hall for De Montfort University and the Refurbishment of Constance Stewart Hall with LK2 Architects and Bishop Grosseteste University.

Awards News on the building to complement the white render areas and make the juxtaposing bold colours of the window frame pop. The 8mm thick VIVIX rainscreen cladding in Golden Morning Oak, Chalet Oak and Barn Oak were selected; providing the required wooden aesthetic but with properties better suited for durability and insulation than its natural counterpart.

Complementing the school’s steel frame, which was chosen for ease and speed of construction, the lightweight nature of VIVIX panels afforded an ease of installation. Furthermore, the durability and weather resistant properties of the panel means it will maintain its aesthetic integrity overtime which is ideal for projects where budget restraints are in place but a compromise on quality and functionality is not.

Ian Williams achieves prestigious RoSPA President’s (10 consecutive Golds) Award for Health and Safety practices

UK Roofing Awards 2018 - winners revealed The winners of the UK Roofing Awards 2018, hosted by the NFRC, were announced at a ceremony hosted by BBC’s Dan Walker at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge hotel on Friday 11th May 2018.

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ow in its eleventh year, the UK Roofing Awards has become a firm fixture for the roofing sector to come together and celebrate outstanding standards of design workmanship and safety demonstrated throughout the year.

NFRC Chief Executive James Talman, who introduced the awards, said: “These awards stand as a reminder to us all of the important contribution the roofing sector makes through innovative products, design and workmanship to the construction industry.”

The winners by category are: Roof Slating Claude N Smith for Marshals Yard Development Roof Tiling (Sponsored by ECIC) Monier Redland working with DM Roofing & Roughcasting Ltd for Shettleston New Parish Church Heritage Roofing (Sponsored by Klober) Rowlands Roofing for LLwyn Celyn Green Roofing Bauder Ltd working with EJ Roberts Roofing Ltd for Clapham Park Sheeting and Cladding/Rainscreen Malone Roofing (Newbury) for Hungerford Fire Station Fully Supported Metal (Sponsored by Metal Solutions) Full Metal Jacket for The Victoria Royal Pavilion Lead Roofing (Sponsored by Chandlers Roofing Supplies) Full Metal Jacket Ltd for British Museum - Islamic Gallery Single Ply Ithaca Roofing Ltd for Hawthorns Care Home

Ian Williams, one of the UK’s largest property services companies within the education, commercial and housing sectors is delighted to announce it has achieved the prestigious Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) President’s Award for its health and safety practices.

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Richard Parry, Safety, Health and Environmental Manager for Ian Williams comments: “This is a terrific accomplishment for us as an organisation and an honour to receive the President’s award. It’s an absolute endorsement of how we place health and safety at the heart of our business, so that our employees can

Innovation (Sponsored by EagleView) Bauder Ltd working with EJ Roberts Roofing Ltd for Dylon Works Mastic Felt IKO plc working with Sussex Asphalte Ltd for St Paul’s Cathedral Reinforced Bitumen Membrane Langley Waterproofing Systems Ltd working with Opus Waterproofing Solutions Ltd for Girdlestone Estate Small Scale Project Polyroof working with Cure Roofing Ltd for Rose Cottage Large Scale Project (Sponsored by Wienerberger) Partnering Contractor’s Roofing Ltd for New Bracken House Roof of the Year Award (Sponsored by SIG Roofing) Full Metal Jacket for The Victoria Royal Pavilion Industry Choice Award (Sponsored by Radmat Building Products) Longworth Building Services for The Bund The UK Roofing Awards also reward the individuals and organisations that go above and beyond the call of duty: NFRC Health & Safety Champion Award 2018 went to Sam Baldwin of Longworth Building Services.

The Local Hero Award (Sponsored by SIG Roofing) went to Lee Moran of Moran Roofing Specialists The Awards would not take place without the continued support of our sponsors, in particular our Headline Sponsor SIG Roofing, who has continued to provide invaluable assistance in the development of the event.

We also thank our other sponsors for their contributions. This year they were: BMI Group (Drinks Sponsor); Category Sponsors Chandlers Roofing Supplies, EagleView, ECIC, Klober UK, Metal Solutions, Radmat Building Products and Wienerberger; and Supporting Sponsors ALM, Axter, Cromar, Easy-trim, IKO, LCA, QANW, Recticel, Sika, Total and LSTA..

Roof of the Year Award (Sponsored by SIG Roofing) Full Metal Jacket for The Victoria Royal Pavilion

work safely, day in and day out. We’re committed to delivering what our customers need whenever and wherever they need it, and our teams are working in 100s of properties across the UK daily, carrying out skills like painting, M+E, roofing and plumbing. But we never cut corners in the delivery of these services.

I am proud of the fact that Ian Williams is not only a great place to work, but a safe one too. Of course, despite this recognition we won’t be resting on our laurels. The business will continue to drive innovation and practice with health and safety at the forefront of everything we do.”

Mike Turner, Ian Williams Director adds: “Winning the President’s Award is an exceptional achievement by all concerned and a particular thank you to Richard

You can view the full list of this year’s winners and finalists at www.roofingawards.co.uk.

Parry for his leadership in helping us to attain this. It’s especially important as it reflects excellence in our core business strategy of attracting, retaining and developing a sustainable, healthy and vibrant workforce which has safe working at its heart. Ian Williams wants to continue to be an employer of choice for people looking to develop their careers, or those who are new to the industry and are interested in our award-winning Apprenticeship schemes. However, this is only a realistic mission if health and safety is foremost in all our minds and practices to make us an attractive proposition as an employer. The President’s Award underpins this commitment.”

Ian Williams is due to be presented with the award at a ceremony in July.

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resented as a result of Ian Williams having received 10 consecutive Gold Awards, the coveted President’s Award celebrates consistently high levels of performance in occupational health and safety management systems, including practices such as leadership and workforce involvement.

Liquid Applied Roofing & Waterproofing and Hot Melt Polyroof working with Sarnian Roofing Ltd for The Little Chapel

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Coatings, Sealants & Paints LISTED COUNTRY HOUSE SAVED FROM DERELICTION A listed country house near Peebles, Scotland, has been brought back to life as a family home following many years of neglect.

Owners Mike and Meg Gush recognise they are custodians of Hallyards and have been keen to renovate it sympathetically. Mike said: “Where 20th century alterations had been undertaken with non-traditional materials, such as cement floors and concrete render, we have removed them and reinstated the structure using natural materials and techniques.”

As in most historic houses, the walls of Hallyards do not have a damp course, so moisture rises up them and needs to evaporate away. At some stage lime plaster had been replaced with gypsum plaster but this had prevented them from breathing. All internal walls were replastered with lime to ensure they can now breathe.

Mike added: “For the internal decoration we chose Earthborn Claypaint because it is highly breathable and works well with lime plaster. Our palette is themed around the original colours that we uncovered, including the green on the library walls. We’ve chosen shades that complement the stone floors and slate worktops, aiming to create a bright and airy feel.”

Claypaint is a unique, clay based emulsion. Its advanced technology maximises the natural properties of clay to create a high performance, highly breathable paint that covers exceptionally well and gives a distinctive, ultra matt finish.

Being free of oils and acrylics, Claypaint is virtually VOC free and does not give off any toxic emissions. That means it is safer for the health of building occupants as well as the environment. Its eco credentials include the stringent EU Ecolabel.

Claypaint is available in Earthborn’s signature palette of 72 shades. Bespoke colours can be developed through the nationwide network of Earthborn stockists such as Ian Russell Paints of Edinburgh which supplied the paint for Hallyards.

For further information visit: www.earthbornpaints.co.uk www.russellpaints.co.uk

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Company News New Lincoln training facility for Dulux Academy The Dulux Academy has extended its reach across the UK by opening a new training facility in partnership with Lincoln College.

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environment designed to maximise the experience.

Courses equip attendees with the knowledge, understanding and skillsets they need to carry them forward into their future or existing careers

The new Dulux Academy will provide hands-on, engaging training delivered by the Dulux Academy’s team of industry leading experts – in a learning

Tmasyn Lawton, Director of Education and Training Delivery at Lincoln College commented, “Sponsoring this facility means we can facilitate industry led courses for those already in the trade, continue to build strong employer links and champion our

he new partnership forms part of Dulux Academy’s commitment to upskill 10,000 UK professionals by 2020 and was officially opened with an event for local business in the painting and decorating industry in the area.

painting and decorating courses by investing in student and staff development.”

Each year the Dulux Academy will be transformed with the Dulux Colour of the Year, painted by students to help achieve their gold standard work experience award and ensure they are up to date with the latest industry trends and techniques.

Mark Rigby, Skills Development Consultant for the Dulux Academy said, “We are thrilled to be launching this facility in Lincoln College. I am excited to see the training offered by Dulux Academy expand its reach throughout the country to encourage a new generation of technically skilled painting professionals. The support from Lincoln College has been excellent and it has been great to work with a team that shows the same passion as we do for decorating excellence.”

Paul Wilcockson, Painting and Decorating Lecturer at Lincoln College commented: “Our students will benefit greatly by having this partner Dulux Academy on site and I would like to thank everyone involved. We are keen to work with more trade businesses and create industry focused partnerships that can add to our learners’ experience.”

For more information on how to attend one of the wide range of training courses at one of the Dulux Academy venues across the country now including Lincoln, please visit www. duluxacademy.co.uk

ROCKWOOL and C40 to collaborate on urban building renovation Joint research effort will demonstrate climate and other benefits of building renovation

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OCKWOOL Group and C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group have formed a 14-month joint research effort to demonstrate the climate and other benefits that building renovations can generate and to assist cities in making costefficient investment decisions.

Buildings today account for about 30 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions and global energy consumption. In C40 cities, buildings account for an even higher percentage of greenhouse gas emissions – up to 60 percent – and thus represent a significant opportunity for cities to reduce their climate impact while improving their citizens’ health, wellbeing, safety and even their productivity.

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A key focus of the research collaboration will be to develop an assessment methodology to assist cities in measuring this broader range of benefits that energy and related building renovations can generate.

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Mirella Vitale, ROCKWOOL Group Senior Vice President for Marketing, Communications and Public Affairs comments, “As urban populations continue growing with unprecedented speed, cities find themselves at the confluence of multiple pressures and challenges, particularly on energy consumption and climate impacts. Energy renovation of buildings can dramatically reduce both while positively affecting occupants’ health and wellbeing”.

ROCKWOOL CEO Jens Birgersson adds, “What’s more, there’s a growing recognition that energy, acoustic, water management, and aesthetic renovations can also increase building values and generate additional socio-economic benefits. The collaboration between ROCKWOOL and C40 will help cities better understand these multiple and mutually reinforcing benefits and to make cost-efficient investment decisions to create the greatest positive value for their communities”.

Kevin Austin, C40 Deputy Executive Director, said, “C40’s research has shown precisely what the world’s great cities need to do in the years ahead if there is any hope of delivering on the Paris Agreement and preventing the worst effects of climate change. Cutting the greenhouse gas emissions generated by buildings is absolutely crucial and quantifying the economic, social and health benefits of these efforts will make it easier for C40 mayors to deliver on the bold climate action needed.”

Coatings, Sealants & Paints MARINA MAKEOVER BY OSMO With summer on its way, UV-Protection-Oil 420 from Osmo UK has been applied to a café in Cheshire to rejuvenate the exterior cladding ahead of the busy season and enhance the natural character of the wood.

Yorkshire-based professional painter and decorator, and member of The Decorators Forum, Rob Greenwood was contracted to revive the exterior cladding on The Boathouse Café in Tattenhall Marina. The wood cladding had weathered by the UV rays, destroying the lignin in wood. It required an upgrade – one which would improve the aesthetics of the building, but also protect the wood going forwards.

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Based approximately 100 miles away from this project, Rob needed a finish that he could rely on. Having worked with Osmo UK products in the past, Rob recognised that the UV-Protection-Oil 420 finish would be the best option for this job, as it would protect, maintain, and restore the wood.

Rob used a 2-inch flat brush to apply two coats of UV-Protection-Oil to the cladding, using around 10 litres in total. “Two coats of Osmo UK UV-ProtectionOil, and the cladding immediately looked amazing” comments Rob. “The first coat makes the world of difference and the second coat is a dream to put on. The consistency was really good, making it flow easily off the brush.”

The product has provided a clear, satin finish that does not crack, flake, peel or blister. It will maintain the wood’s natural colour and slow the greying process by 12 times in comparison to untreated wood. It contains biocides to protect against algae, mildew and fungal attack.

“We were delighted to be able to complete this project in just seven days” continues Rob. “The finish transformed the wood almost instantly, giving it a stunning colour and bringing out the grain.”

For more information, visit www.osmouk.com, and to view more of Rob Greenwood’s work, visit www.facebook.com/robgreenwooddecorator

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BRADITE COATINGS SCALE NEW HEIGHTS The South West of England’s newest attraction for climbing enthusiasts offers a bright and clean welcome, thanks to the use of Bradite coatings.

The Climbing Hangar in Plymouth opened for business in March 2018 after a former Hovis bakery was converted to provide 8,000 square feet of climbing walls.

The facility welcomes both seasoned climbers and novices who wish to try their hands (and feet) at this growing sport.

In order to give the colourful walls a tough protective coating Climbing Hangar selected a combination of products from the Bradite range, ‘HD Floor & Wall EW99’ and ‘Poly Lacquer PL78’.

EW99 is a high performance two pack, water-based epoxy floor and wall coating. It is tough, quick drying and hard wearing.

“The client was looking for coatings that wouldn’t be marked by rubber-soled shoes used by climbers,” said Bradite Sales Manager James Burton. “Using the

EW99 provides a gloss finish that is surface dry in three hours and fully cured for heavy traffic after six days. It is available in a range of British Standard colours or clear. PL78 is a clear gloss lacquer that is surface dry in an hour.

www.bradite.com

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PL78 is a high performance two pack polyurethane solvent-based lacquer suitable for use on steel, wood, fibreglass, concrete and other mineral surfaces.

EW99 and PL78 gives a hard wearing finish that can be cleaned and allows for advertising stickers and branding during competitions etc., to be removed without damage.”

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Space Air Ltd. - Guildford and Bristol 01483 478 715 sales@spaceair.co.uk www.spaceair.co.uk Distributor of LG HVAC

Reinventing air solutions from the inside out.

A truly environmental experience by Neil Afram - Space Air Ltd, an LG HVAC Distributor When you hear the name LG you immediately associated with Electronics such as televisions or mobile phones.

You may also of noticed some small air conditioning units on a wall?

The LG Air Solution Business Unit is a provider of total building HVAC (Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning) through trusted solutions, coexists through sustainability, optimal environment and energy solutions.

The company offers a broad portfolio of air conditioning products that are compatible with any building from all types of residential, commercial, UHWDLO KRWHOV RI¿FHV DQG LQGXVWULDO The equipment is to provide essential healthy, comfortable, energy and environmentally sustainable conditions in the form of Heating, Cooling, Ventilation, Domestic Hot Water all of which are controlled by the advanced LG electronics intelligent control where you can treat and control your climate as you would your TV. It works in the background and gives desired conditions, information and alarms without needing a degree in controls. /* PDGH WKHLU ¿UVW DLU FRQGLWLRQLQJ unit in 1968 and in 2008, sold its 100 PLOOLRQWK %HFRPLQJ WKH ¿UVW FRPSDQ\ LQ WKH LQGXVWU\ WR UHDFK WKDW VLJQL¿cant milestone. This has allowed LG to become one of the major providers in the highly competitive HVAC industry with a world wide $7.5 billion sales turnover. By enhancing the industry’s

B2B infrastructure of over $54 bilOLRQ WXUQRYHU KHOSHG ÂżQGLQJ IXUWKHU solutions, to become HVAC solutions specialist. This sustained, excellent performance is built on a solid foundation of global R&D and advanced manufacturing capabilities.

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neous Cooling, Heating and domestic hot water from the same system.

The Space Air name was the acronym of Specialised Packaged Air Conditioning Equipment, the name was established in 1980 and became one of the leading specialists in professionally distributing air conditioning equipment. Our focus was and still is, how to promote and support the innovation and advancement in the air conditioning market by providing complete support to customers from marketing, design, quotation, VSHFLÂżFDWLRQ ORJLVWLFV WHFKQLFDO VXSport, advise, spare parts and after sales to all sectors in the building inGXVWU\ $UFKLWHFWV 6SHFLÂżHUV 4XDQWLty Surveyors, Main Contractors, M&E Contractors, Specialist Contractors, Maintenance Companies, Corporations and End Users. Involvement was not only restricted to the sales but in legislation and regulations that lead manufacturers to reduce energy consumption and make equipment accessible to all walks of life.

Contact us on 01484 478 715, sales@spaceair.co.uk or visit our website www.spaceair.co.uk

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Space Air was the major contributor to the success of VRF technology not only in the UK but throughout Europe and beyond. We are simply a strong link between manufacturers like LG and the market place.

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People on the move Movers & Shakers: Rudridge appoints Daniel Best as Senior Sales Coordinator at Gravesend Groundwork and materials supplier Rudridge has appointed Daniel Best to the position of Senior Sales Coordinator at its Gravesend branch, based at the Denton Wharf Estate on Mark Lane.

Daniel Best

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aniel has been in the industry for 23 years, gaining a wealth of experience at a number of well-known competitors, most recently Rouden Pipetek in Sittingbourne. He will be responsible for helping to maintain and develop the client and supplier portfolios at Gravesend with a focus on plastic drainage, supporting Rudridge’s significant growth in this area.

Daniel said: “Rudridge has always had a great reputation in the groundworks sector so I am really pleased to be joining the team. I am looking forward to sharing my knowledge and reinforcing the branch’s status as a leading supplier in the area.”

Craig Lyons, Branch Manager at Rudridge Gravesend, added: “We are delighted to welcome Daniel to Gravesend. He brings with him a great deal of expertise in the industry and I am sure he will play a big part in contributing to the success of the business going forward.”

Caesarstone UK K welcomes new sales managers Colleen Burns for Ireland and Marie Hosie for Scotland Colleen Burns

Marie Hosie

Caesarstone, the global leader in high quality engineered quartz surfaces, has strengthened its team with two new sales appointments for Scotland and Ireland.

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arie Hosie, Sales Manager for Scotland, has worked in the kitchen industry for nearly 20 years. Marie brings with her a wealth of experience, having been a manager at both John Lewis and Fitted Kitchens, as well as a business development manager for several stone and Corian fabricators. Prior to Caesarstone, she was at MCD Marketing LTD where she sold Corian for nearly 13 years.

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Colleen Burns joins Caesarstone UK to develop the company’s business in Ireland. Colleen has a strong background in retail and sales management. Her previous role was Business Development Manager for Ireland at CRL Stone. She has also held other management roles within the Telecommunication industry.

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Amir Reske, Managing Director, Caesarstone UK says: “Scotland and Ireland present us with significant opportunities to continue and develop Caesarstone’s business within the UK and we are delighted to have such a strong sales team looking after these regions.”

He continues, “We keep being told that we have the best products on the market and with high-calibre appointments such as these, we can extend the reach of those products as well as ensuring the best service too.”

ECO-FRIENDLY HOMES WATERPROOFED

BY TRITON SYSTEMS Waterproofing products supplied

by Triton Systems were specified to waterproof eight, eco-friendly, new build homes. The individual properties sit embedded in a hillside with panoramic views across the coastline and the city of Sunderland.

Triton’s Area Manager, Malcolm Cook, recommended the use of Triton TT Admix to deliver a Type B waterproofing solution that would deliver a speedy and simultaneous method of waterproofing and construction. The product was used at the time of batching for all concrete in the slabs and ICF walls. The water-resistant concrete was then vibrated until all voids were eliminated. As part of the TT Admix system, pre-formed Triton TT Waterstop and Triton TT Swellmastic S2 hydro-reactive expansion sealant, were also specified to seal the construction joints.

When TT Admix is added to the concrete mix, its active chemicals react to generate a non-soluble crystalline formation which seals the concrete itself against

the penetration of water or liquid, and protecting it from the deterioration effect of harsh environmental conditions. Other benefits include its ability to withstand extreme hydrostatic pressure (up to 12 bar) and reduced shrinkage and cracking.

The active components of the TT Admix are reactivated within the cured concrete should minor cracking or movement occur when water is present. The product is compatible with cement blends containing pulverised-fuel ash; ground granulated blast furnace slag and silica fume blends.

Triton TT Vapour Membrane was then spray applied to the ICF formwork as the primary waterproofing layer. This Type A waterproofing system is a ready blended coating that once cured, also provides a Methane and Carbon Dioxide barrier. It can be retro-applied to concrete, masonry and brick substrates or used as an alternative to sheet membranes in new construction. info@tritonsystems.co.uk www.tritonsystems.co.uk

Rob Erwood announced as new sales director for Nuaire Nuaire long-standing employee, Rob Erwood, has been announced as the company’s new Sales Director.

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ob joined ventilation manufacturer Nuaire in 2004 as a sales rep, and has worked his way through the various sales posts, including most recently National Sales Manager, to reach this new pinnacle. In his role as Sales Director, Rob is responsible for both commercial and residential projects, with a large sales team consisting of 61 external sales people and 8 Regional Sales Managers.

Rob b Er Erwood

Rob’s entire career has been spent in HVAC, starting with British Gas as an engineer before moving into sales, for which he has a natural aptitude. “It’s the variety that really appeals to me in terms of the different projects and industries,” he comments on his career in the sector. “One day you could be working on a major football stadium and the next a hospital, so you get to experience very different industries, which is really interesting.”

Having worked for several companies prior to Nuaire, Rob is keen to point out the unique culture of the company: “At Nuaire, there’s a ‘people come first’ mentality – a real family feel, despite it being part of a large PLC. This is reflected in the number of long-standing staff we have and the fact that we have entire families working here. Nuaire is a big employer for this part of South Wales. It’s a really unique atmosphere and coming to work is fun as well as professionally engaging. We certainly have some great characters here with a good sense of humour; it feels more than just a company producing ventilation products.”

Nuaire provides a full range of energyefficient domestic, commercial and renewable ventilation solutions. UK based with over 450 employees worldwide, Nuaire has been at the forefront of the ventilation industry since 1966.

For more information please visit www.nuaire.co.uk or call 029 2085 8200.

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proactive person, Rob has already made great use of his new position as Sales Director by spearheading a number of drives and new initiatives at Nuaire. Working closely with Nuaire’s new Managing Director Wayne Glover, Rob has been instrumental in producing a new vision statement and set of core values addressing customer service, quality, innovation and staff motivation. He has also implemented a programme of reaching out to customers on a one-to-one basis to get to the heart of their climate needs, which will be directly fed back into a new wave of innovative product development. Rob sees this latter aspect as being fundamental to the continued success of Nuaire: “Building Regulations have become more stringent over the years and part of the key to our success is finding products that meet – and exceed -regulations whilst remaining competitive. With product design,

it’s all about getting the features and benefits that people will sign up to.”

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Bespoke solution for complex project Profile 22 has supplied 88 bespoke vertical sliding windows to a prominent private apartment building located in Southport, Merseyside.

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he windows were supplied and installed to this complex project

by Ormskirk based specialist installer Countrywide UPVC. Complex requirements

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Les Moon, Project Leader for Westcliffe Court Management Company & resident, said: “Westcliffe Court was built in 2002 with first generation soft wood framed sash windows with 10mm double glazing. Over time the seals had started to fail and the building had become very draughty. Also the building is located in close proximity to the sea which causes the paint to quickly degrade, and so we were looking at a schedule of repainting the window frames every three to four years, which when you factor in the need for scaffolding was a very costly proposition for the residents.

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“We decided that we needed to seek an alternative that could better withstand the rigours of the environment in which the building is situated.

“Because the building is located in a conservation area any changes to the exterior have to go through planning. Our first two applications to change to PVC-U were declined by Sefton Council in 2007

and 2010 because they were adamant that replacement window frames should have wooden frames exactly like the originals.

“We decided to reapply in 2013, this time with a long list of specific requirements given to us by the council on how replacement any windows in the application should look and operate. We were able to achieve this after significant campaigning for a more energy efficient alternative.

“After significant research the only company I could find who were able to supply the windows to the specifications stated by the council was Profile 22. The nearest contractor who was able to install the windows was Countrywide upvc, located in Ormskirk.”

Overcoming issues Paul Campbell, Director of Countrywide UPVC, said: “The planning process to seek the replacement of wooden frames with PVC-U in a conservation area can be a nightmare, but we were happy to work with Westcliffe Court’s residents to find a suitable solution.

“We are extremely loyal to Profile 22 because of the quality of products and services they

“We are extremely loyal to Profile 22 because of the quality of products and services they offer. In this instance they were the only company who were able to service the very specific list of requirements made by Sefton council.” Paul Campbell, Director of Countrywide UPVC

offer. In this instance they were the only company who were able to service the very specific list of requirements made by Sefton council.

“The council was not only concerned that any replacement PVC-U product exactly match the look of the wooden originals, but also that the mechanism of the windows worked in a certain way – using a mechanical Mortise-and-Tenon joint rather than a welded 45 degree joint.

“Profile 22’s Specification Manager completed all the designs for the windows and attended both residents and planning department meetings, with samples, making a complicated process run as smoothly as possible.

“Planning was finally approved in 2016 and we were able to get on site to start the works later on that year to install the 88 bespoke, handmade, large sliding sash windows with a white foil, authentic wood grain finish.”

The perfect solution Andrew Reid, Commercial Sales Director at Profile 22, said: “Our vertical sliding windows were the perfect solution for this apartment building. They exactly match the look of traditional sliding sash windows whilst offering all the benefits of a high performance modern material that delivers a cost effective solution for residents.

“The PVC-U Ovolo frames provide optimum strength, superior thermal protection and excellent weathering performance.

Requiring minimal maintenance this system will retain its appearance year after year.”

Seamless installation

“Our vertical sliding windows were the perfect solution for this apartment building.

They exactly match the look of traditional sliding sash windows whilst offering all the benefits of a high performance modern material that delivers a cost effective solution for residents.” Andrew Reid, Commercial Sales Director at Profile 22

Paul continued: “We started on site in September 2016 and ran the schedule of works to suit the residents, working from flat to flat rather than from one side of the building to the other.

“For a complex project, with the residents remaining in the properties throughout, it ran extremely smoothly and we were able to complete all the installations by February 2017 – on time and on budget.”

Les Moon said: “The installation process was virtually seamless. Countrywide could not have been more accommodating to our residents and made the process as painless for us all as possible.”

A pleasing result Les said: “All the residents are absolutely delighted with the new windows. They are extremely pleasing aesthetically and only under very close scrutiny can you tell that they’re not wooden frames.

“They are also performing exceptionally well with many residents are reporting that they’re not having to switch their heating on half as much as they were previously, so the windows are already saving us money on our heating bills.

For more information on Profile 22’s products and services, please visit www.profile22.co.uk or call 01952 290910.

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“It’s a relief to know that these windows not only look and perform well, but will be able to remain in situ with very limited maintenance required for many years to come.”

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VELUX® Daylight

VELUX® Daylight Expert Grant Sneddon answers some frequently asked daylight questions, and explains how to choose a window layout that maximises natural daylight in your home.

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want more daylight in my home.

How do I do it?

When undertaking a new development or design project in your home the role of daylight should always be a key consideration. When looking at the structure of your home or new extension think about how and where the daylight will enter and consider not just the number of windows, but also in what direction they will face.

A roof window can typically let in up to twice as much light as a conventional vertical window of the same size. This is because the glazing is angled directly towards the natural light source, with very little diffused or reflected light. It can allow daylight to penetrate deep into a room, illuminating areas that might otherwise be quite dark such as bathrooms and hallways or rooms moved further away from a light source following a home extension.

Where should I position my windows?

Most people looking to increase the amount of daylight in their home are doing so to create lighter, brighter and fresher spaces. So it’s more often than not a case of personal choice. How light, bright and fresh do you want your home to be?

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Roof windows can also help to enhance views. For instance, are you going to end up with an aesthetically pleasing view over trees or sky, or will you be left looking out at

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a busy road? This is something a developer or architect can advise on to make sure you place windows in the optimal position.

Importantly, take into account the pitch of the roof – the lower it is, the longer the roof window should be to maximise the view out and the amount of daylight able to flow in.

What type of roof windows do I need?

When it comes to choosing roof windows, the centre-pivot roof window tends to be the first choice for both domestic and commercial builds, but top-hung versions are also worth considering. Opening outwards, with a handle at the bottom, top-hung windows are most effective where the bottom of the window is within arm’s reach. VELUX top-hung roof windows open 45° outwards for an unrestricted view and maximise the amount of natural daylight that can be allowed in.

Classic centre-pivot roof windows are ideal for lower installations and feature a top control bar, allowing the user to install the window lower than an equivalent top-hung operated roof window. This allows space for furniture beneath the roof window and enables the creation of a focal point within the room, flooded with daylight.

VELUX INTEGRA electrically operated roof windows are the ideal solution for out-ofreach situations. All come with an intuitive touch screen control pad and rain sensor so the window automatically closes in the event of rain.

VELUX® Daylight Expert Grant Sneddon

VELUX INTEGRA electrically operated roof windows are the ideal solution for out-of-reach situations. All come with an intuitive touch screen control pad and rain sensor so the window automatically closes in the event of rain.

The ‘Ultimet’ Energy Saving Blind 3 Window Blinds in 1 Insulation improved – reducing heating costs Heat gain from the sun reduced – lowering cooling costs Lighting costs down – controlled levels of natural light

All in One Blind The Ultimetal fabric with the high levels of solar reflectance and low levels of emissivity afforded by its metallised coating provide industry leading levels of shading performance. The 50+ years’ experience of weaving glass-fibre based shading fabrics producing the highest levels of performance from the thinnest of materials. The Ultimetal fabric is less than one quarter of a millimetre thick, permitting a blind of over 3.0 metres in height to be stored in a cassette of less than 55mm square.

Powder coated to match the window frames, the blinds become almost invisible.

Reflex-Rol supplying demonstrably scientific shading solutions.

Contact us today 01989 750704 www.reflex-rol.co.uk

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Light transmission levels for the fabric in single figures can remove glare, improving workspaces and comfort zones alike. Solar reflectance (Rs) of over 70% can reduce heat gain through the glass by 25%, 40% to over 50% dependant on glass properties. The blinds also improve the insulation of the window by 15%, 20%, 30% or more, reducing temperature loss.

www.reflex-rol.co.uk • info@reflex-rol.co.uk • 01989-750704 • Ryeford Hall, Ryeford, Ross on Wye, Herefordshire HR9 7PU

Another Building at ‘risk’ is saved and gets the Selectaglaze treatment Situated within the Bower Ashton Conservation Area in Bristol is the Lower lodge Gatehouse; a grandiose Grade II Listed former entrance to Ashton Court Estate.

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ir John Hugh Smyth conceived the idea for the Gatehouse in 1805. It formed part of his ideas to update Ashton Court Mansion as a gothic showpiece in the local community. The estate was home to the Smyth family for 500 years, when in 1959 it was purchased

by Bristol City Council.

The extravagant Gatehouse, built by Henry Wood, has a castellated bathstone exterior

and heraldic entrance. However, over the years the building was left abandoned and fell into such disrepair, that it featured on Historic England’s ‘Heritage at Risk Register’.

is Grade II Listed, original features had to be retained and restored such as the stone flagged floors, plastered vaulted ceilings and beautiful gothic arched windows.

Unlike much of our architectural history which is left to deterioration, this building has been given a new lease of life and once again stands proud at the entrance way to the estate. As the Gothic Revival building

The main contractor, Ken Biggs, approached Techniglaze, a partner of Selectaglaze for over 20 years, for assistance with secondary glazing. A total of 18 openings were treated, all very irregular in size and shape. Timber frames were made to ensure a true opening was created to fix the secondary glazing to; making sure it was a tight fit to eliminate any air gaps. The Series 45 hinged casement was specified with gothic arched heads, to allow an undisrupted view of the primary glazing, without adding any new sightlines. The high performance seals and use of low-E glass in the secondary glazing, has improved the thermal performance of the building and created a more comfortable environment.

“We are delighted with the quality of the secondary glazing. Not only does it keep the building warm, but does a fantastic job keeping the noise of a busy road nearby to a minimum. The newly installed glazing fits perfectly with the look of this historic site.” Ben Mellor, Gatehouse Manager.

“We are delighted with the quality of the secondary glazing. Not only does it keep the building warm, but does a fantastic job keeping the noise of a busy road nearby to a minimum. The newly installed glazing fits perfectly with the look of this historic site.”

Commented Ben Mellor, Gatehouse Manager.

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The Lower Lodge has been successfully brought back to life and restored to its former glory.

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Founded in 1966, Royal Warrant holder Selectaglaze has worked with Techniglaze for over 20 years, on projects in Cornwall, Devon and the West Country. Selectaglaze works with clients to ensure buildings are warmer, quieter and safer.

For further information, please contact Selectaglaze on 01727 837271 or e-mail: enquiries@selectaglaze.co.uk or visit: www.selectaglaze.co.uk

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RRNews - Issue 31

Touch Ironmongery Ltd

The Perfect Touch

Established 35 years ago in October 1982, Touch Ironmongery is one of London’s leading ironmongers.

O

Brass”, the firm changed their name in 2003 in reaction to slowly advancing market changes in architectural ironmongery which is no longer supplied solely in brass, and to also reflect the broader range of products and finishes that they sell.

In fact today, Touch can supply a wide range of finishes including Brass, Satin Brass, Polished Chrome, Satin Chrome, Polished Nickel, Satin Nickel, Copper, Bronze –solid and plated, BMA, Antique Brass, Black, Pewter, Ceramic, Leather, Stainless Steel, Satin Stainless Steel, Gun Metal, and the list keeps growing.

Whatever finish you require, Touch can help you get the right look.

Touch occupy their recently refurbished showroom at 210 Fulham Road, Chelsea, where they display a vast range of their 5,000 products. With a customer base including Interior Designers, Builders and individuals who are interested in the top end of the Ironmongery market, Touch mainly supply to residential premises but hotel and office properties also contribute to their vast clientele.

The company also have a healthy export market to all corners of the world, namely the Middle East, Europe and the Americas. Touch’s owner and founder, Bill Benham, has 33 years’ experience in the ironmongery trade, as do his colleagues Jim Haselup and Alan Blanchard. Saleem Qureshi is the newest member of our team and has 10 years’ experience, meaning their knowledge is unrivalled in this industry.

The range of products supplied by Touch date from circa 1640 French (Louise XIV) and cover all subsequent periods (Georgian, Edwardian & Victorian), art deco and contemporary pieces also make up the product ranges. In addition, Touch showcases the very best of British manufacturing; the best ranges are still produced in the Midlands by craftsmen

in factories dating back 200 years or more.

Touch also sell European manufactured goods which is considered to be of a very good quality and in recent years they have introduced some of the far eastern made products, albeit in a limited range but cost effective. With trends continuously evolving, new innovative products are

The range of products supplied by Touch date from circa 1640 French (Louise XIV) and cover all subsequent periods (Georgian, Edwardian & Victorian), art deco and contemporary pieces also make up the product ranges. constantly under development. Touch understand that keeping up with the fashion-shifts is imperative in order to provide every customer with the best solution for their requirements.

Ironmongery can be a difficult and complicated aspect of a building project, as a result Touch aim to take this awkward aspect and make it user friendly and clear to understand by offering an onsite service where they carry out a detailed door by door, window by window, room by room Ironmongery schedule, highlighting all requirements and identifying any items that can be refurbished. Refurbishment is a large part of the business; Touch will undertake complete ironmongery refurbishment projects, and can restore old paint covered door furniture to their former glory, looking as new, at a fraction of the cost to replace.

www.atouchofbrass.co.uk 210 Fulham road, Chelsea London SW10 9PJ

British manufacturers of the finest quality handcrafted hardware Croft combine traditional skills with modern manufacturing techniques to produce the most beautiful, quality fittings, built to stand the test of time.

Croft, available from Touch Ironmongery www.croft.co.uk

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As well as specialist bespoke items, Croft supply over 1000 products, available in 23 different finishes to furnish high end residential and commercial properties, royal palaces, government houses, historic castles and stately homes.

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Bison Doors and Windows offer more choice than ever before Until recently, modern windows and doors all seemed much the same.

However, high-end manufacturer Bison Frames epitomises an industry that’s moving forward, offering more choice and quality than ever before.

W

hen you think of modern windows and doors, many picture plain white PVC-U units, with little to distinguish between competing brands and models. While that may have been accurate some years ago, today things have moved on. Colourful composite doors are hugely popular.

Aluminium is making a strong comeback, especially in grand bi-folding and sliding doors. Modern PVC-U systems incorporate traditional designs in very modern ways, offering an unprecedented range of styles, colours and finishes.

One thing all these new high-end systems have in common is attention to detail.

Profiles used to be governed by engineering, now they’re driven by design. In particular, designers looked at traditional windows and doors and realised that the slim, almost minimal construction used through necessity in the past, also matches modern tastes for clean, sleek lines.

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Based in Barnsley, Bison Frames are one of the UK’s most recognisable manufacturers of these new windows and doors. Their suite of products, called The Genesis Collection, includes PVC-U sash windows, flush sash casements, sliding and bi-folding doors and the innovative new range of WarmCore hybrid aluminium windows and bi-folds.

All products in the suite complement one another, and all share the common feature of deliberately understated design that offers both high-end aesthetics and modern benefits, such as superior thermal and acoustic insulation, enhanced security

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and low maintenance. As a result, all work equally well in both traditional and modern architecture.

Bison’s WarmCore range is especially noteworthy. It is an aluminium system that offers all the usual features and benefits of aluminium, such has strength, durability and versatility. But it also uses a full depth PVC-U core, which provides a significant improvement in thermal efficiency.

Compared to a standard thermally-broken aluminium window or door, WarmCore offers a 25% reduction in thermal transfer.

Based in Barnsley, Bison Frames are one of the UK’s most recognisable manufacturers of these new windows and doors.

Bison director Martyn Haworth explains how the window industry has made such a rapid change: “Until relatively recently, the market for windows and doors was driven by suppliers, not consumers; effectively it was a case of ‘available in any colour, as long as it’s white’. Today that’s changed – homeowners are much more discerning, and rightly so.

They’re not prepared to accept standard, generic products any longer. As a result, demand for high-end, quality windows and doors has increased, and the industry has reacted. Today windows and doors are much sleeker and more stylish, with more thoughtful design. Colours are hugely popular, as are both woodgrain effects and smooth, engineered aluminium finishes.”

If you have a project – whether it be modern, traditional or heritage - it’s worth looking at some of the recent developments in windows and doors. It’s likely that there’s a modern product that will suit what you’re doing.

For more information on Bison’s range of windows and doors, visit www.genesiscollection.co.uk

Doors, Windows & Fittings WRIGHTSTYLE INTRODUCES ENHANCED FIRE DOOR SYSTEM Wrightstyle, the leading international supplier of advanced glazing systems, has introduced a new door system that provides 90 minutes of integrity and insulation (EI90).

The new door system has been successfully fire tested, and can incorporate any EI-90 glass that has been tested into steel framing to a maximum glass area of 3.97 sq metres.

The new 8050 series of thermally broken fire doors are fully compatible with Wrightstyle’s SR60 curtain walling system, and provide a new level of aesthetic appeal.

It adds a further option to Wrightstyle’s already extensive range of fire and smoke resistant doors, which include a range of unlatched doors in double or single leaf format – a breakthrough fully-glazed fire door system.

The door system is available in either single leaf (1606mm wide x 3062mm high or 1534mm wide x 3222mm high) or double leaf (3102mm wide x 3062mm high or 2958mm wide x 3222mm high).

The doors, which will accept glass up to 60mm thick, can be used as a stand-alone product or incorporated into Wrightstyle’s SR60 curtain walling system, to provide a complete screen or façade of 90 minutes integrity and insulation.

Previously, Wrightstyle’s F1 glazed door and screen system, offered non-thermally broken fire protection up to EI-60.

The new system therefore adds a further 30 minutes of protection with the significant and added benefit of thermally broken profiles.

The SR series curtain wall and roof glazing system provides architects and designers with flexibility in glass dimensions and façade design, allowing large areas to be spanned

without the need for a secondary support assembly.

“The inclusion of a thermal break in this new door system gives it added insulation, while allowing for slimline steel framing,” said Denis Wright, Wrightstyle’s chairman.

“It therefore combines the protective function of an advanced steel glazing system with the sleek aesthetics that architects and designers are looking for,” he said. www.wrightstyle.co.uk

COMAR 7P.I CDE COMMERCIAL DOOR New Comar 7P.i CDE Commercial Door Electronic Lock with Access Control Integration Secured by Design Licenced Product Comar Architectural Aluminium Systems, part of TPG - The Parkside Group Limited, announce the launch of Comar 7P.i CDE, a Commercial Swing Door with Electronic Locking, that now holds a Secured By Design Licence. The Comar 7P.i CDE is an electronic lock option for the thermally broken commercial swing door range, which offers access control integration for both single and double leaf door sets. Secured

by Design Homes 2016 requires that occupants, of a residential building with 10 or more distinct dwellings, must be able to remotely control the main entrance door from their apartment to allow access to known visitors. The Comar 7P.i CDE is ideal for multi-dwelling apartment applications, where the electronic lock suites in with most access control panels and includes panic exit hardware options. The solution can also be used in all matter of public buildings where occupant safety is required, such as Health, Education and other Public Buildings.

The Comar 7P.i CDE door solution is available today via our Secured by Design Group Scheme of approved fabricators. Our Project Managers will help designers best specify the most appropriate options for their projects, while our highly responsive Technical Support Team are always on hand to give in detail support.

Contact Comar via www.comar-alu.co.uk or 020 8685 9685 – or email projects@parksidegroup.co.uk.

Over 20 Years Experience

Quote ‘Refurb’

Renowned for a bespoke top quality product, service and attention to detail with short lead time from order

Tel: 0845 475 1630 Email: sales@americanshutters.co.uk Visit our website: www.americanshutters.co.uk

RRNews - Issue 31

Comar specifiers and fabricators can be reassured by Comar 7P.i CDE’s secure, flexible design options. Achieving PAS 24:2016 in double leaf swing doors is particularly challenging to pass on a test, as the doors resist a 4.5kN loading as well as a manual attack tests. Double leaf doors are often called for on residential buildings as they allow facilities teams and occupants ease of access for bulky objects such as furniture, yet still provide uncompromised security and convenience for day to day access where only a single leaf is commonly used, the Comar 7P.i CDE provides this solution.

AMERICAN SHUTTERS

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Doors, Windows & Fittings GARADOR’S ROLLER DOORS PERFECT FOR SEASIDE HOMES It can come as a shock to some homeowners just how damaging salt in the sea air can be to coastal properties.

Homes within three miles of the Atlantic Ocean, the North Sea or the English Channel are generally considered to be at risk of salt related corrosion, as salt particles are carried through the air by fresh sea breezes.

The constant bombardment of salt laden wind and rain can also cause the weathering and deterioration of the materials used to build a modern home.

For those in need of a garage door for a home on the coast, leading garage door manufacturer, Garador offers the perfect solution to this sort of harsh environment – the GaraRoll roller door.

The Gararoll roller door features a door curtain constructed from rust-resistant aluminium laths, which roll up into a box at the head of the garage door opening. Unlike steel or timber, the aluminium laths resist corrosion by moisture and salt in the air and are therefore a more durable choice of garage door for this sort of environment.

The GaraRoll isn’t just built from quality materials, it’s well-engineered too.

Thanks to its neat and space-saving design; it also maximizes space both on the driveway and internally in the garage. This is especially useful for

homes which want to park their car right up close to the garage door or want to keep access to the roof or loft storage, as Garador’s Managing Director Simon Hipgrave comments: “Our GaraRoll roller doors are wellengineered and are perfect for garages which want to maximize the use of the space inside their garage.”

– they are the only spring balanced roller doors which have force limitation, together with a reversal system built into the operator, to ensure total safety when opening or closing the doors.

style properties. GaraRoll roller doors are manufactured up to 5000mm wide and 3100mm high.

Garador’s GaraRoll roller doors are also spring assisted and electrically operated

Traffic White is a top colour favourite especially in coastal homes, but Garador’s GaraRoll also comes in a wide range of colours and finishes, including full timber effect and Deco Paint to enhance both modern and traditional

To assist with achieving this Crittall MW40 double-glazed windows incorporating a CUIN centre pane were installed throughout. CUIN, supplied by Crystal Units, utilises a thin film inserted in the mid-point of a double-glazed unit so as to convert it to provide tripleglazed performance.

makes use of a Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) frame for the top four levels of student accommodation. This system is made offsite and is assembled far quicker than a traditional concrete frame and represents a reduction in the carbon footprint over a traditional construction method.

In the Hands Building the CUIN/Crittall partnership has enabled a 0.6 W/m²K centre pane U-value in a 32mm thick IGU, which lent itself perfectly to the Crittall Windows MW40 system where thermal performance and heritage appearance combined as essential attributes.

The use of CUIN centre pane technology also reduces the weight of each window unit compared with a traditional tripleglazed system with corresponding savings in transportation and loading on the structure in which it is installed.

Client: Mansfield College, Oxford

Stuart Cade, Director of MICA Architects, said: “We selected Crittall as a slim, elegant window versatile enough to

Main Contractor: Beard Construction 201 Cumnor Hill, Oxford, OX2 9PJ

Find out more about the GaraRoll roller door range by calling 01935 443798 or visit www.garador.co.uk

CRITTALL HELPS OXFORD COLLEGE GET TOP MARKS FOR SUSTAINABILITY An innovative glazing system that combines the technical expertise of Crittall Windows and Crystal Units has contributed to state-of-the-art energy efficiency at Mansfield College, Oxford.

The college authorities were looking to increase on-site student accommodation substantially so as to enhance overall income. They also wanted to provide additional educational and research facilities and to do so within a building that set new standards for sustainability.

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The result is the Hands Building, begun on site in 2016 and now completed and occupied. Mansfield is one of Oxford’s smaller colleges and the new building, occupying a site on the south east corner of the main quadrangle, now provides 74 en-suite student apartments – a 75% increase in student accommodation – together with lecture and seminar facilities. The new six-storey building also houses the Bonavero Institute of Human Rights.

The building was designed by Rick Mather Architects (now MICA Architects) to retain as much green space as possible using heat exchange and solar thermal technology for space heating.

To ensure energy generation demand is kept as low as possible, very high thermal performance was a requirement for the building fabric.

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The innovative building design also

provide thin-framed casements in addition to glass corners. We used the biggest formats Crittall provided. Overall the building is the greenest of its kind in Oxford.” www.crittall-windows.co.uk

Architect: Rick Mather Architects (now MICA Architects) King Charles House Park End Street Oxford, OX1 1JD

Doors, Windows & Fittings AESTHETIC AUTOMATIC ACCESS FOR CATHEDRAL at the TORMAX HQ in Switzerland and is more than capable of powering the doors installed at the Cathedral. Measuring only 85mm high by 128mm deep, it is still an incredibly compact operator however, making it ideally suited to heritage locations where architectural integrity is key.

building, Birmingham Cathedral (St Philips) is a rare and very fine example of English Baroque architecture. As part of a significant refurbishment of the interior, TORMAX was contracted to supply and automate two sets of traditional, wood-framed glass swing doors, providing DDA compliant access to the main lobby area. Helping maintain the architectural integrity of the building, the doors are powered by unobtrusive TORMAX 1201 operators, delivering smooth and reliable opening with whisperquiet precision.

Levels of foot traffic vary greatly at the Cathedral and the door operators have in-built flexibility to match all situations whilst minimising energy consumption.

The doors can be set for use in Power Assist mode, whereby users are aided in opening the door manually, Low Energy mode which limits power and speed and is useful for quieter times, as well as Full Power application.

Birmingham Cathedral was awarded a £500,000 grant to undertake essential internal renovation work. This included a complete re-wire of the building, cleaning of notable structures including the numerous stainedglass windows, as well improving accessibility throughout the building. Contracted by Midland Conservation Ltd, the automatic swing doors, installed by TORMAX, feature glass panels etched with an ecclesiastical design to blend seamlessly with this historic interior.

“As a place of worship, we want to ensure our facilities are welcoming to all who visit Birmingham Cathedral,” explains Anna Pitt, chief executive at the Cathedral. “The automatic swing doors ensure easy access for all visitors whilst the carefully considered wood and glass combination, ensures they complement the interior perfectly.”

Phone: 01932 238040 Email: sales@tormax.co.uk Website: www.tormax.co.uk

The powerful motor in the 1201 operator was precision engineered

RICHARD REEVE TO TAKE AXIM TO NEW HEIGHT TPG, The Parkside Group Limited is pleased to announce that Richard Reeve, Sales Director will be exclusively looking after one of its major divisions, Axim Architectural Hardware.

Richard has been with TPG for 15 years and is excited to take the leading hardware brand to even greater heights. Richard said, “Axim is one of the most trusted brands in the industry for reliability and quality. Axim celebrated 30 years of business last year and having worked throughout the industry I know that the Axim TC-8800 series of Concealed Transom Closers is well known for its superb long-term performance and as part of TPG, Axim, is backed up by market leading delivery to its European wide distributor and partner network.”

Richard Reeve

Over the last 30 years Axim has extensively developed its product range to include all the hardware that top quality commercial doors require. Richard commented that “Everyone knows the top performer the Axim TC Series of Concealed Closers, however, I am not sure that everyone is aware of how extensive the Axim product range is. The Axim PR Series Panic Exit range is comprehensive, and the Axim Panic Exit Locking Handle is one of the most high-quality products I have seen which fits across the entire range.”

Axim designs and supplies a comprehensive in-stock range of transom closers, panic exit devices, electric strikes, deadlatches, surface mounted door closers, floor-springs, flush-bolts, letter-plates, locks and handles through a pan-European distributor supply chain. For more information please contact Axim on 0208 685 9685 or email axim@parksidegroup.co.uk k - Visit www.axim.co.uk

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Richard continues “Axim is known very well in the aluminium door industry, however the Surface Mounted Door Closer, the Axim FC Series, offers a solution for both aluminium and timber doors, in fact it even comes as standard with fixings to suit both materials. This means that installers and distributors can minimise the closers they carry, and the Axim FC-1000 Series has been tested for Fire Rating to BS 476-22 1987.”

SPECIALIST ARCHITECTURAL

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West Port first and last word in timber window contracting Combining time-honoured craftsmanship with cutting-edge manufacturing technology, Cumbria’s West Port Windows & Doors offers something unique in UK commercial glazing – entirely bespoke, bestin-class timber window and door products, available in volumes that no traditional joinery can match.

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Experienced joinery team

t’s that balance of the best aspects of large and small-scale fabrication that’s allowed the Maryport firm to thrive over the last twenty years – not just becoming one of the UK’s biggest and most respected commercial timber fabricators, but also a key part of VKR Holding, the fenestration powerhouse behind Velfac and Velux.

But while West Port’s Cumbria headquarters plays host to the most advanced modern manufacturing, it’s also home to craftsmanship at its purest and most traditional. The company employs six highly experienced joiners to work on the most bespoke and intricate projects, enabling it to produce anything from wildly unusual custom creations to identical copies of hundred-year-old heritage windows, right down to specific sash horn shapes and other unique quirks, particular to the original designer.

Today, the firm employs more than 180 craftsmen and technicians, and operates from a 175,000-square foot factory kitted out with state-of-the-art equipment, the result of a far-sighted attitude that’s seen it invest extensively in boosting efficiency, improving quality and helping it continue to stand out from the crowd.

Unparalleled product range The company’s product range is among the widest of any timber fabricator in the

“At West Port, we’ve dedicated ourselves to becoming as lean and efficient as possible, so we can offer our customers the best value and service as possible,” Sean Parnaby. Managing Director at West Port industry, encompassing everything from casement, vertical-sliding sash, tilt and turn windows and entrance doors to a variety of more complicated products like French doors, in-line sliding patio doors and aluminium-clad composite windows.

But it’s the level of service West Port provides, and the lengths it goes to offer housebuilders, developers, main contractors and procurement groups the best possible products at the best possible prices, that place it among the top fabricators in the UK. High-tech paint plant

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Take painting, for example. Most timber manufacturers have to get their products painted by hand spraying– increasing lead times, and adding pounds to the cost of every product they make.

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West Port, on the other hand, can boast one of only two high-tech electrostatic paint plants in the UK – the other is owned by global car giant Jaguar. With it, the firm can apply 10-12 coats in a single pass – and any waste paint is recollected and used as the basecoat for other products, making savings that West Port then passes on to its customers.

What’s more, the company has its own highly advanced paint mixing facility. By taking samples of a desired colour, then running it through a spectrometer, the device can exactly replicate it. So far, the company has produced 175,000 different colour combinations.

“At West Port, we’ve dedicated ourselves to becoming as lean and efficient as possible, so we can offer our customers the best value and service as possible,” comments Managing Director Sean Parnaby.

“From start to finish, our manufacturing process takes place under one roof. Quality slow-grown timber comes in at one end of the factory – and expertly crafted windows and doors come out the other. Through VKR Holding, we’re able to buy directly from lumber mills, minimising costs for us and our customers, and all painting and finishing takes place on site.

“Unlike a lot of our competitors, we haven’t shifted production abroad – 100% of the products we make are crafted here in Cumbria, something that not only provides nearly two hundred skilled manufacturing jobs, but is going to become increasingly important after Brexit.

“And we’re the only fabricator in the UK that’s geared towards supplying the commercial sector with large volumes of outstanding quality timber products. Some companies can offer the quality. Some can offer the volumes. None can offer both on the scale that West Port can.

“All the time, we’re seeing more and more developers, procurement groups and others wake up to the benefits of modern engineered timber. It’s the strongest, greenest, longest-lasting window fenestration material of them all – and for that reason, we expect it to go from strength to strength in the commercial sector over the next few years.”

For more information call West Port Windows & Doors on 01900 814225 or visit www.west-port.co.uk

GEZE UK GEZE UK responded to the call “to be the best” as part of a three-year, multi-million pound makeover, of the National Army Museum, in London – making it more accessible and providing enhanced visitor facilities.

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he reconfiguration of its 1970 and 80’s interior has transformed the museum in Chelsea. Its five themed galleries, laid out over four floors, now centres around a light and airy atrium.

In addition to the permanent galleries, the museum includes temporary exhibition space, a study centre and education spaces, a café, shop and Play Base, for children up to the age of eight.

It is hoped that the £23.75 million redevelopment – part-funded by the National Lottery – will open doors to new audiences enabled by GEZE products fitted around the building.

“The architect’s vision of opening up the building and making areas more accessible has been furthered by the installation of various GEZE products to the highly trafficked areas and doors at the museum as part of the redevelopment.

These additions have made transiting areas much easier for our visitors.” Mike O’Connor the National Army Museum’s Director

Included in the re-fit were five pairs of TSA 160 NT automatic swing door operators.

These were fitted to the corridor and entrance to the museum’s board room and the corridor and two doors to Play Base.

The TSA 160 NTs are electronically controlled, hydraulic swing door mechanisms which are ideal for heavy doors in high traffic areas, increasing accessibility. They are extremely reliable and require little maintenance.

There are also 10 TS 550 E floor springs and 60 Boxer integrated door closers fitted to manual doors throughout the building – from study areas and corridors to behindthe-scenes facilities.

GEZE’s architectural ironmongery was specified by Interior Hardware, of Aldridge, in the West Midlands.

The museum was reconfigured to a design by architects BDP with exhibition fitout by design agency Event to create a more welcoming, accessible and flexible environment, enabling the National Army Museum to manage increasing visitor figures, predicted to reach 400,000 by 2026.

“It is immensely satisfying to know that GEZE products are integrated into a building which houses an archive of such national importance. The redevelopment of the National Army Museum has led to a ‘must-see’ visitor attraction, ready to meet the needs of its many audiences for years to come.”

Mike O’Connor the National Army Museum’s Director states: “The architect’s vision of opening up the building and making areas more accessible has been furthered by the installation of various GEZE products to the highly trafficked areas and doors at the museum as part of the redevelopment.

These additions have made transiting areas much easier for our visitors.”

For more information about GEZE UK’s comprehensive range of automatic operators, manual door closers and window technology products call 01543 443000 or visit www.geze.co.uk.

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It is intended to act as a bridge between the British Army and wider society encouraging greater public engagement and understanding of defence and security, both past and present. The new building now houses 2,500 objects - from the 17th century to present day. These include artefacts such as Lawrence of Arabia’s original desert robes, Florence Nightingale’s medals and the uniform worn by Her Majesty, The Queen, when as Princess Elizabeth she held the honorary commission of Brigadier in the Women’s Royal Army Corps from 1949-52.

Andy Howland, GEZE UK’s Sales and Marketing Director, said that he was delighted that GEZE products were used in the landmark building.

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Project News

Engineering Kew Garden’s largest refurbishment project Ramboll’s work as lead designer and conservation engineer concluded as Temperate House, the world’s largest Victorian glasshouse, opened its doors on 5th May.

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escribed as an “architectural wonder and horticulturists’ haven”, the public are once again able to enjoy Temperate House at the Royal Botanic Gardens (RBG) at Kew, following a 5-year £41 million restoration.

Since 1863, Temperate House, a Grade I listed building, has been home to some

of the world’s rarest and most threatened plants. The building, within the UNESCO World Heritage site, had deteriorated since previous restoration, such that in 2012 it had been closed to the public and placed on the Heritage at Risk register. Money was raised, including Heritage Lottery funding, and in 2013 Turner & Townsend appointed Ramboll as lead consultant and conservation engineer to develop a scheme of fundamental repair and modernisation of key features, improving its function as both home to the collection of plants and a contemporary public space.

The repairs would see improvements in daylight and ventilation requiring the replacement of all glass, restoration of the opening lights used for ventilation, and the installation of a new building management system to enable greater environmental control within the building.

Mike Mittendorfer, Ramboll project lead, commented: ”The structure presented some unique and interesting engineering and conservation challenges. There was considerable corrosion and decay in the extensive wrought iron, cast-iron and steelwork

Britcon to build new laboratory and offices for Singleton birch Building and civil engineering company, Britcon has secured at £350,000 contract to build a new laboratory and offices for Singleton Birch at its Melton Ross Quarry near Kirmington in North Lincolnshire.

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ingleton Birch Ltd is the UK’s leading independent lime supplier, with a worldwide customer base. Its product range includes quicklime, hydrated lime, natural hydraulic lime, graded chalk, aggregates and other specialist products and services. Its products are used in the production of steel, various chemical processes, waste and water treatment, purification of flue gases, production of lightweight building materials and various other sectors of the construction industry.

The contract was awarded on the back of a successful £200,000 project completed by Britcon to deliver a new tipping station for Singleton Birch last year. It has also previously delivered the £400,000 Quarry Fines building on the same site to house a bulk store, screen house, crusher house, microlime plant and ancillary facilities.

Britcon starts work next month to build the new 13,000 sq ft laboratory and plant room which will have state of the art,

purpose-built facilities on the ground floor for a product quality testing process. The first floor will be dedicated to provide new office accommodation for the Birch Energy team at Singleton Birch. It expects to complete the project by the end of August.

Roger Webster, Project Manager at Singleton Birch said, “Britcon is very familiar with the site from its previous works that we have been very pleased with. It was an obvious choice to ask them to deliver the

Project News “Over the past few months, I have watched as some of the world’s rarest plants finally reach their home.

And what a home it will be – a glistening cathedral, the new glass allowing the sun to stream in, the ironwork restored to its glossy best.”

Richard Barley, Director of Horticulture at RBG Kew comprising the structural frame. We are proud to see our innovative approach help return this very unique structure to its former glory and celebrate its vital role in preserving some of the world’s most important natural hertiage.”

Richard Barley, Director of Horticulture at RBG Kew, says: “Over the past few months, I have watched as some of the world’s rarest plants finally reach their home. And what a home it will be – a glistening cathedral, the new glass allowing the sun to stream in, the ironwork restored to its glossy best.”

Initially it had been proposed to dismantle, repair and rebuild the entire structure, which would have been prohibitively expensive. Ramboll proposed a more costeffective solution, requiring the removal of the glazing system only, so that work to the

new laboratory and offices and we continue to expand our facility here at Melton Ross.

Britcon offers dedicated expertise and resource for specialist mining and quarry projects which are recognised as dangerous industries to work in due to continued use of massive earth moving machinery, use of explosives and ever present airborne dust.

It resources projects with health and safety specialists, geologists and civil engineers to engage through the feasibility and design phases and enable smooth and safe delivery, despite robust environmental challenges.

Temperate House rises to 18 meters, has over 15,000 panes of glass and is the jewel in Kew’s crown. For over 150 years

Temperate House has been home to temperate plants from Africa, Australia, New Zealand, the Americas, Asia and the Pacific Islands and in 2003 was recognised globally for its importance in the promotion of botanic studies and the preservation of endangered species and was made a designated UNESCO world heritage site. Following its remarkable restoration Kew will now be able to better tell the stories of the plants it Kew has rescued and enable generations to enjoy a fabulous experience.

Britcon offers dedicated expertise and resource for specialist mining and quarry projects which are recognised as dangerous industries to work in due to continued use of massive earth moving machinery, use of explosives and ever present airborne dust.

The refurbishment of Hotel Scribe: Tristan Auer reinvents the spirit of Paris Hotel Scribe, managed by Sofitel, part of the AccorHotels group, has begun a refurbishment that will culminate in the hotel’s metamorphosis, slated to be completed by autumn 2019.

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Paris institution, Hotel Scribe has joined forces with Wilson Associates and its artistic director Tristan Auer to restore the hotel to its former glory. Recognized this year as one of the world’s leading decorators and designers, Auer seeks to reinterpret the traditional hospitality codes for Hotel Scribe by drawing inspiration from

its history. The hotel, which will remain open during its transformation, aims to embody the spirit of Paris by emphasising its core assets, namely its location in the Opera district, its new design and its food and beverage offering.

“This is a building that has always been closely connected to images: the moving >>

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Other project experience includes the £5 million infrastructure works at the remote Glensanda Quarry on the Morvern Peninsula and the £1.5 million Buxton Bagging Plant.

structural frame could be performed from scaffolding with minimal deconstruction.

Ramboll developed the schedule of repair by a regime of prompt inspection of the metalwork in the period between the existing coatings being removed and the new system being applied. The majority or repairs were successfully undertaken insitu and dismantling successfully kept to a minimum.

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Project News Hotel Scribe will undergo a complete refurbishment from April 2018 to autumn 2019, but remain open during the entire renovation.

Travelers can discover the first guest rooms as soon as September 2018. Recalling parisian pieds-a-terre, they will feature the codes of the capital’s Haussmannian architecture. image - cinema - and photographic images, especially during the way when it was a communications center,” says Tristan Auer. “It was also the first building in the world to be draped for an advertising campaign. What’s more, it has a fantastic history!”

Tristan Auer’s designs for the guestrooms

recall a Parisian apartment, with fireplaces, moldings, wainscoting and fabric headboards.

Bathroom ceilings reflect the colors of the Oper Garnier’s ceiling as painted by Chagall, a beautiful reference to the area. The bas-reliefs, medallions and vases evoke artists’ studios, a nod to Paris museums. A selection of vibrant, colorful works in various abstract styles by

young French artists decorates the walls.

The bathrooms feature terrazzo floors; upper wooden molding evoking a typical 19thcentury atmosphere, with superimposed materials, folding screens, ceramics, wood and tiling.

Hotel Scribe will undergo a complete refurbishment from April 2018 to autumn 2019, but remain open during the entire renovation. Travelers can discover the first guest rooms as soon as September 2018. Recalling parisian pieds-a-terre, they will feature the codes of the capital’s Haussmannian architecture.

West Midlands Mayor breaks ground on Jewellery Quarter regeneration project The restoration of the former J. Ashford & Son jewellery factory in Birmingham by Shaylor Group, Blackswan Property and Grainger Plc came under the spotlight when West Midlands Mayor Andy Street visited the site to learn about its rich history and exciting future.

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he occasion was marked by a ground breaking ceremony at the Great Hampton Street site where the building works are taking place. Andy learned about the complex refurbishment of the listed building, taking place alongside the construction of two new apartment buildings.

Shaylor Group CEO Stephen Shaylor said: “We are delighted to be working alongside Grainger and Blackswan to provide new and dynamic housing within the Jewellery Quarter.

Shaylor Group has a wealth of experience in the residential sector, particularly with projects involving heritage aspects, and we are excited

Situated in the bustling Jewellery Quarter, the £28 million build-to-rent scheme - known as Gilders Yard - will create 156 new homes on behalf of the UK’s largest listed residential landlord Grainger. The development is being delivered by Birmingham-based developers Blackswan Property with Shaylor Group acting as principal contractor.

“We are delighted to be working alongside Grainger and Blackswan to provide new and dynamic housing within the Jewellery Quarter. Shaylor Group has a wealth of experience in the residential sector, particularly with projects involving heritage aspects, and we are excited to be part of the next phase in the history of this iconic building.” Stephen Shaylor, Shaylor Group CEO

Hosted by Shaylor Group CEO Stephen Shaylor, Andy enjoyed a walkthrough of the project whilst learning of its rich history, joined by Grainger Director of Development Mark Woodrow, Blackswan Managing Director Marcus Hawley, and senior site management.

to be part of the next phase in the history of this iconic building.”

Grainger’s Director of Development Mark Woodrow said “It’s fantastic to see work starting on site at Gilder’s Yard which will create 156 brand-new, high quality homes, built specifically for the rental market. This is a key target city for Grainger and it was wonderful to welcome West Midlands Mayor, Andy Street, to share this important milestone with ourselves, Blackswan Property and Shaylor Group. We know Birmingham well, with an established local property management office, and we hope that this is the first of several new developments that we can help bring forward in the area.”

Blackswan Managing Director Marcus Hawley said: “It was great to welcome West Midlands Mayor Andy Street to Gilders Yard so that he could see first-hand the wonderful work taking place to create an exciting and attractive scheme which will give this part of the Jewellery Quarter a huge lift. Great Hampton Street is full of character and we hope Gilders Yard will act as a catalyst that brings this important street back to life.”

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Andy Street said: “The success of the Jewellery Quarter as a thriving community is now beginning to spread into the neighbouring Gun Quarter and developments like Gilder’s Yard demonstrate this clearly.

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“Driven by high-profile investments in the city – most notably HSBC and HS2 – residential development in the centre is increasing at an astonishing rate. What is being done here, incorporating the traditional heritage features of the site, is really special and I look forward to coming back to see the progress being made.”

(L-R) Grainger’s Director of Developments Mark Woodrow, Shaylor Group CEO Stephen Shaylor, WM Mayor Andy Street and Blackswan MD Marcus Hawley

The beginning of construction work on the site in Great Hampton Street follows a deal which saw the UK’s largest listed residential landlord, Grainger, agree to forward fund and acquire the private rented sector (PRS) development, known as Gilders Yard, from Blackswan.

Robin Mackenzie Partnership

Excellence in Acoustics

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stablished in 1969 Robin Mackenzie Partnership is one of the UK’s largest specialist acoustic practices with offices throughout the UK and in France.

RMP has the experience and knowledge to meet every architectural acoustic challenge – from the design of atria, offices, hotels, school halls, courtrooms and multipurpose spaces through to concert halls, exhibition centres and special needs schools. We achieve the very best results through a combination of experience, the latest computer modelling techniques and a full suite of on-site testing services.

26 Bath Street, image courtesy of John Kinsley Architects

We also offer CPD presentations on a variety of important acoustic issues that can be tailored to your specific needs to address any particular issues.

Contact us: T: 0345 062 0000 E: rmp@napier.ac.uk, Web: rmp.biz Twitter: @RMPsoundtesting

Donaldson’s College, image courtesy of CALA

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James Gillespie’s High School image courtesy of Andrew Lee Photography

RMP has the experience and knowledge to meet every architectural acoustic challenge – from the design of atria, offices, hotels, school halls, courtrooms and multipurpose spaces through to concert halls, exhibition centres and special needs schools.

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Wood fibre insulation ticks all the right boxes In every industry, from aerospace, to cars, to construction, designers and engineers are rethinking the materials they use.

The quest for improving performance, efficiency, sustainability and reliability is becoming increasingly pressing as industry professionals look to maximise resources without compromising on quality.

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n Europe, both housebuilders and consumers are increasingly savvy about the use of sustainable materrials and buildings that are constructed with the health of both habitants and the environment in mind. Adrian Judd, sales and operations director at STEICO UK explains how natural insulation fits into the rapidly-evolving modern methods (MMC) of construction market.

With the Government setting a target of up to 300,000 new homes to help ease the current housing crisis and committing to MMC in its 2017 Housing White Paper, there are many reasons why consideration of offsite building, modular, prefabricated and volumetric building is gaining ground. Shortages of both materials and skilled labour are also spurring a rethink on how to achieve these targets in a speedy and practical way without compromising on the quality of homes that are delivered.

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When it comes to wood fibre insulation as part of these systems for internal or external panel or cladding insulation systems, there are more drivers that make it an attractive option. As a natural material, it is easier to dispose of and more likely to fit into circular economy goals and it minimises the risk of indoor air pollution, damp and condensation, all factors that can impact on the long-term performance and comfort of a building.

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It works perfectly with cross-laminated timber (CLT) and in higher density specifications can provide protection from heat or, at a lower density, act as a thermal conductor with potential applications in roofing, walls or as a flooring underlay, to help optimise the energy performance and comfort of the building. It can also be used as direct render boards or as an airinjected insulation.

As a marketk leading manufacturer of natural insulation, we have partnered with Ecomerchant, a distributor committed to sustainable and ethical sourcing, to invest in the landmark Protexion campaign. Protexion is promoting the considerable benefits of using wood fibre insulations on both refrofit, refurb and new build projects.

Builda ability Building pro ojects are run to tight sche edules and, the sooner they ccan be and completed and occupied, the better but this should not mean compromising on quality or long-term performance. This includes ease of installation. STEICO’s wood fibre insulation is simple and easy to fit (either packed or friction-fitted), eliminating installer error, keeping construction programmes, tight and costs, low.

Thanks to its versatility and flexibility, natural wood fibre products are increasingly being specified and can be easily sourced from a growing number of distribution partners.

Sales are increasing and customer satisfaction is high. New initiatives from government can only help to accelerate the demand from consumers who want to invest in a healthy living environment and save money on energy costs at the same time.

One award-winning company, Kithurst Builders in the south of England, is innovating with Naturally Insulated Passive Panels (NIPPs).

These are fabricated on or off-site out of natural products, delivering a low environmental impact, high thermal efficiency and accelerating the construction process as prefabricated units that are low maintenance and are taped for airtightness.

The Protexion campaign aims to ensure that all stakeholders involved in specifying insulation for new buildings, take advantage of the fact that today’s products do far more than just ‘keep the heat in’.

They can be designed either as a structural product (load bearing), as a ‘tea cosy’ system or just an insulation carrier (Cassette/caisson), all providing a high level of insulation up to Passiv Haus standard.

Insulation delivers improved building performance in seven key areas beyond thermal control which it is traditionally associated with.

Naturally Insulated Passive Panels (NIPPs) are made of Steico laminated veneer lumber (LVL), sole plate and plates, Steico I–Joists and filled with Wood Fibre insulation that is blown in.

Thanks to its versatility and flexibility, natural wood fibre products are increasingly being specified and can be easily sourced from a growing number of distribution partners.

Sales are increasing and customer satisfaction is high.

Durability Extreme weather is now an issue for the UK. The quality and type of materials used can have a long-term impact. For example, condensation is one of the costliest risks to buildings causing huge maintenance repairs and structural damage. Natural materials are better able to absorb and release water whilst remaining dry.

That means it is better able to protect from and buffer moisture thereby becoming a key part of healthy living.

Sustainability While all insulation is helping the environment by improving the energy performance of buildings, natural fibre insulation materials are comparatively more robust. This means that when it comes to disposal, they can be composted – ie no specialist waste facilities or landfill. Throughout their lifecycle they will additionally have a much lower and, often, negative carbon footprint.

All STEICO products are sustainably sourced and certified to FSC or PEFC standards with full chain of custody paperwork. All STEICO insulation materials also have an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) which is an independently verified and communicates transparent and comparable information about the life-cycle environmental impact of products.

Thermal Insulation is naturally associated with providing protection from the cold, particularly given the rise in energy costs and STEICO insulation is Passiv Haus approved. Compared with synthetic insulation materials, wood fibre insulation has a much higher density. This higher density means that natural insulation makes for a better heat buffer as the high midday temperature will only reach the internal side and be lost at night when the temperature is already cooler.

All STEICO products are sustainably sourced and certified to FSC or PEFC standards with full chain of custody paperwork. All STEICO insulation materials also have an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) which is an independently verified and communicates transparent and comparable information about the life-cycle environmental impact of products. effective at reducing noise. Sounds external to the building - such as traffic or music - as well as those from within the building - through walls and ceilings - are attenuated better by wood fibre than synthetic equivalents. In providing better protection from acoustic pollutants, it provides better comfort for occupants especially in urban settings.

construction problems associated with water in some way, breathability is essential in measuring a building’s performance and preventing the accumulation of harmful water within the building’s fabric1. These are fundamental in reducing health risks for those suffering from respiratory illnesses such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Fire protection

Comfort

All insulations will meet fire safety standards but this is a minimum rating. The key differentiator between natural and synthetic is that natural insulations will prevent the spread of fire and if burnt, will not give off toxic fumes such as cyanide as polyisocyanurates (PIR) might. It therefore plays a vital role in helping to minimise the harmful effects of fire.

When a building is well-designed and well-built, occupants should be at their peak comfort. With the average person spending approximately 80% of their lives in enclosed rooms, an occupant’s well-being is imperative2. Therefore, when selecting insulation for a building, wood fibre insulation offers benefits for the health of the occupants, the structure of the building, its impact on the environment, its acoustic properties, durability and carbon footprint.

Health With no harmful toxins, natural wood fibre insulation also offers significant health benefits thanks to its ability to control moisture, improve the building’s breathability and thereby reduce the risk of harmful moulds and mites.

With 90 per cent of all building

To understand more about how natural wood fibre works as a high performance insulation solution for offsite construction projects, visit www.ecomerchant.co.uk/protexion or call 01793 847 445.

ASTM E 241-77, Recommended Practices for Increasing Durability of Building Constructions Against Water-Induced Damage. Philadelphia, PA: American Society for Testing and Materials, 1977 2 www.steico.co.uk 1

Acoustic performance As a high density natural insulation, wood fibre is

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Schöck k makes thermally efficient balcony retrofit a reality The retrofitting of balconies, or the replacement of thermally inefficient balconies, on old housing stock renovation and projects involving office-toresidential conversion is in demand.

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he challenge for planners though, is to comply with the same standards of thermal insulation as with new build. One of the most effective dedicated solutions on the market is the Isokorb from Schöck.

It has a 120mm insulation thickness and is a load-bearing thermal break that allows the replacement, or addition, of balconies to an existing building by connecting cantilevered steel balconies to the reinforced concrete slab.

The Isokorb minimises thermal bridges at concrete-to-steel cantilever balcony connections and transfers negative moments and positive shear forces.

Standard heights of 160mm to 220mm are available and the product offers different options for integrated, energy-efficient building renovation, resulting in enormous scope for design. It is a ready-to-install component which allows residents to remain in the building during external renovation, with no damage risk to internal finishes and decoration. An additional feature is that the product has been fully certified as an “Energy saving component” by the Passivhaus Institute in Darmstadt, Germany.

The hee Isok Isokorb Isokorb o iin a typ or pic iical c in ins n ta tall allatio al attio a tio on ssituat ttua ua a ion ion n

When the Isokorb products are incorporated into residential buildings, the required fRsi value – the temperature factor used to indicate condensation risk that must be equal to or greater than 0.75 – is always comfortably met. The range also complies with the Government Standard Assessment Procedure, SAP 2012, concerning CO2 emissions from buildings and respectively heat losses through non-repeating thermal bridges.

LEFT The type RKS Isokorb

BELOW An office-to-residential project at Sudbury Hill, in North West London. Previously the London headquarters of the international turnkey projects contractor M.W Kellogg.

Installation utilses a template

The Schöck design team is on hand

Drill holes are first marked with a template in position on the face of the building. Holes are then drilled into the concrete slab, adhesive injected and the load-bearing reinforcing rods slipped into position and anchored by means of the pre-injected adhesive. Structural screed is poured into a special pocket between the Isokorb and the concrete slab to ensure a perfect contact between the two structural elements. Once both the mortar and the screed are cured the structure is ready for the new balcony to be connected

Unlike new build, product selection for renovation is subject to certain restrictions.

The solution will depend on the specific project requirements, the existing building and its structure, as well as the development of customised design proposals. The Schöck design team is on hand to provide extensive technical support on all these issues; for architects, developers, support structure specialists and contractors. This includes product selection advice for the different options; building physics detail; framework conditions; methods for undertaking a building inventory; dimensioning examples and a comprehensive checklist.

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All solutions meet full compliance with the relevant UK building regulations and offer BBA Certification and LABC Registration.

When the Isokorb products are incorporated into residential buildings, the required fRsi value – the temperature factor used to indicate condensation risk that must be equal to or greater than 0.75 – is always comfortably met. The range also complies with the Government Standard Assessment Procedure, SAP 2012, concerning CO2 emissions from buildings and respectively heat losses through non-repeating thermal bridges.

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For a free copy of the Schöck Thermal Bridging Guide and / or the Thermal Bridging Solutions brochure – contact the company on 01865 290 890 or visit www. schoeck.co.uk

Editor’s Choice PRESCHOOL MAKES THE GRADE FOR AWARD WINNING SUSTAINABLE DESIGN friendly environment

The Public Health Authority in Sweden highlights that the choice of building materials can affect allergies and respiratory diseases, such as asthma. Knowing the materials in our environment can impact our health, it is important to consider the indoor and outdoor factors children are exposed to when developing schools.

VIVIX® X by Formica Group was specified by KLARA Architects and Sweco Architects as part of the facade to complement the wood panelling. The panels were also used in the areas subject to high wear and tear such as the entrances, stairs and storage spaces. The durability of the panels being ideal for environments subject to high traffic footfall.

Used in the design of the ventilated façade, VIVIX X panels help optimise the school’s heat and energy efficiency, and in doing so facilitates the work of green building technology alongside the products registered in the Swedish environmental databases: SundaHus, Byggvarubedömningen, BASTA and Svanen Husproduktsportal.

Lillmunkens Förskola was named after a nomination contest amongst Munkfors’ residents. A two-storey building located in the Munkerud area, the school and its five departments has a gross area of approximately 1200m² and can accommodate up to 100 children. In addition to the departments, the preschool includes communal areas such as a music room, creative studio and staff rooms.

After its completion in 2017, Lillmunken Förskola received the Sustainable Building of the Year award by the Hållbar Byggande Värmland Association. www.formica.com

Wetrooms made easy

EXPANSION INTO ADVANCED COMPOSITES BRINGS THIRD QUEEN’S AWARD FOR ANCON Structural fixings manufacturer, Ancon, has won a 2018 Queen’s Award for Enterprise in the Innovation category, for the successful introduction and ongoing development of its advanced composite, low thermal conductivity, Teplo wall tie range.

This is the third time that Ancon has been honoured in this prestigious award scheme that rewards outstanding achievements by UK businesses; it follows Queen’s Awards for International Trade in 2015 and Innovation in 2012.

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Whilst Ancon’s first Queen’s Award for Innovation in 2012 recognised the company’s in-house development of a unique lockable concreteconnecting steel component, this second Innovation award has been won jointly with its external strategic partner in this advanced composite development, MagmaTech.

Later this year the Lord Lieutenant of South Yorkshire will visit Ancon’s head office and main manufacturing site in Sheffield and officially present the 2018 award on behalf of HM The Queen. Ancon representatives will also attend a royal reception at Buckingham Palace this summer, hosted by HRH the Prince of Wales and other senior members of the Royal household. www.ancon.co.uk

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www.wetroominnovations.com 01629 815500

Teplo wall ties are manufactured from continuous basalt fibres set in a resin matrix; a fibre-reinforced polymer that is 70 times more thermally efficient than steel. When used to join the two leaves of a cavity wall, this material virtually eliminates cold bridging across the insulated cavity. Launched by Ancon in 2010 as part of its market leading wall tie range, Teplo has had a major influence on the growth of low energy housing in the UK and Ireland, and helped future-proof traditional masonry cavity wall construction techniques, by minimising insulation thickness and wall footprint.

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Editor’s Choice EVINOX TEAM OF CIBSE CERTIFIED HEAT NETWORK CONSULTANTS EXPANDS Evinox has added to its CIBSE certified Technical and Design team, with Design Engineer Arturs Kokins becoming the latest to successfully complete the CIBSE Heat Networks Code of Practice course, passing his final exam with flying colours.

The CIBSE Heat Network qualification is recognised across the industry and covers a broad spectrum of considerations for communal and district heating systems, demonstrating the depth of knowledge Evinox can offer to their customers in the design of heat network systems.

Arturs originally joined Evinox in early 2017 as a Graduate Engineer, with an MEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering degree, and has since developed his skills and gained valuable experience working on a number of key projects. These include managing bespoke testing with BSRIA (Building Services Research and Information Association) for a large development in London where Evinox is supplying heating and cooling units. He was also involved in Evinox successfully completing testing under the new BESA (British Engineering Services Association) UK Standard for Heat Interface Units, for which the Evinox ModuSat (XR) HIU achieved excellent results and is currently one of only five manufactures to have officially published its results on the BESA website, something the company is very proud of.

“Arturs is a perfect example of what can be achieved by investing in people and promoting their growth within a business,” comments Helen Gibbons, Evinox Technical and Design Manager. “He is a highly valued member of the team at Evinox, and we are delighted to employ a Design Engineer of Arturs calibre.”

Evinox offers developers, consultants and specifiers a broad range of design support services for district and communal heating projects, including HIU sizing and selection; hydraulic system guidance and advice; and complete plant room system and distribution pipework design, where required.

Please contact Evinox on 01372 722277 or complete the contact form on our website to find out more about our Design Services or BESA tested Heat Interface Unit range. www.evinoxenergy.co.uk www.evinoxresidential.co.uk

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Don’t be put off buying property from auctioneers, says ground engineering experts Mainmark offers non-invasive solutions for structural remediation

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ith the UK government currently falling behind its 2015 targets of building one million new homes by 2020, together with high house prices, it’s little wonder that UK auction houses predict a stable market in 2018, despite a dip last year.

The snap general election last year and the Brexit vote caused slight industry jitters, however, many buyers decided to take advantage of the new economic climate and it is predicted that this will continue in 2018. With more buyers, including first time buyers, opting for auction houses rather than the traditional estate agents ground engineering experts, Mainmark, want to offer those purchasing property from auctions advice and guidance on the advanced ground engineering solutions now available.

Robbie Blanchfield, manager at Mainmark, commented: “It always seems daunting when buying a property through an auction due to the potential work required both internally and sometimes structurally.

However, with advances in ground engineering technology it’s now far more accessible and cost effective for those who do discover their new home has structural issues to get it fixed.”

Due to the varying climate the UK experiences from flash floods, heat waves and, most recently, snow, a property’s structural integrity is tested through the

Traditional methods to repair foundation and ground damage, including underpinning, have previously been considered too costly, time consuming and invasive; requiring large holes to be dug beneath a building’s existing foundation before filling them with high volumes of heavy concrete mixture. Not only does this method cost time and money, but also causes substantial disruption to the property’s residents. However, alternative methods have been introduced, making it easier to repair subsidence issues.

These advances in ground improvement and re-levelling methods include Mainmark’s Teretek®, a proprietary engineered resin injection solution that is effective, quick and non-invasive. The resin is injected into the foundation soils beneath a structure’s footings, in a process likened to key-hole surgery. The unique two-in-one solution can improve ground bearing capacity and re-level structures, with minimal intrusion and at a significantly lower cost

than traditional underpinning. Teretek® resin is injected through very small tubes into the ground beneath the foundation in a controlled manner, to fill the voids and strengthen the ground that have caused subsidence.

As the resin components mix and expand, the voids are filled and the ground is strengthened, subsequently helping to raise the building back to level.

Teretek® is also an ideal solution for filling voids and re-establishing strength to weak ground and can be applied to re-support moving concrete slabs in driveways, garages or parking areas.

This type of solution is revolutionary for both property developers and home owners, as it can offer substantial saving, both in time and money. In fact, Mainmark technicians can complete the process within one day in some instances, which is dramatically quicker compared to traditional approaches.

“Although we would always recommend buyers to carry out the relevant checks prior to buying a property, if they discover it does have structural issues, don’t be put off right away as there are solutions. Our products have a proven performance record and are internationally recognised” added Blanchfield.

For more information about Mainmark, please visit: https://mainmark.com/uk/

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“Although we would always recommend buyers to carry out the relevant checks prior to buying a property, if they discover it does have structural issues, don’t be put off right away as there are solutions. Our products have a proven performance record and are internationally recognised.” Robbie Blanchfield, manager at Mainmark

years. This is why older houses, many of which are sold at auction, tend to suffer with structural issues such as subsidence. Subsidence is the gradual downward movement or settlement of land or soils. In or around structures, the sinking of the soils underlying a building can result in loss of bearing capacity and movement or settlement of the structure.

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Another brilliant confe f re r nce week – again the sessions were r spot on and entire r ly l re r levant to our sector ”

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH UNBEATABLE FRESH CONTENT DELIVERED BY AN UNRIVALLED SPEAKER LINE-UP

Chief executive, A2 Dominion

DON’T MISS YOUR OPPORTUNITY TO BE PART OF EUROPE’S LARGEST AND MOST DIVERSE HOUSING FESTIVAL

Solving the housing crisis? – CIH and ITN Productions film

Meeting housing at a local level Rethinking social housing

Making sense of the political agenda

Grenfell, one year on

Building places that work

Delivering for residents and tenants

What does a 21st century housing provider look like?

Reducing homelessness Construction skills: The future of the industry post Brexit

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nne Baxe x ndale Deputy director of communications, policy and campaigns Shelter

Richard Bacon MP Chair APPG on Self-Build, Custom and Community Housebuilding and Place-Making

Andy Brown Chief operating officer L&Q

Ian Burden Property transaction lead capital and cash NHS Improvement

orma Dove-Edwin Chief data and information officer Places for People

Rob Driver Head of public sector Tech UK

Maxine Espley Executive director Accord

Geraldine Howley Group chief executive Incommunities

eth Knowles Mayoral lead for homelessness and rough sleeping Greater Manchester Mayor's Office

Carla Ke K egans Director The Ethical Lettings Agency

Kit Malthouse MP Minister for fa f mily support housing and child maintenance DWP

Colette McKune Group deputy chief executive ForViva

John Roberts Founder AO.com

Sally Randall Director,r housing standards and support MHCLG

Isobel Stephen Director,r housing supply MHCLG

Nick Sterling Managing director,r Osborne and vice-president Institute of Customer Service

Baroness Diana Wa W rwick Chair National Housing Federation

Suzanna Wo W od Head of housing strategy and partnerships London Borough of Waltham Forest

The balance of content, networking, ex e hibitors r and fu f n was absolutely l perf rfect ” Chief executive, Loreburn Housing Association

To view the full programme visit cihhousing.com

2020 Vision The Future of the Built Environment

21 - 22 June 2018, Business Design Centre London

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ow in its fourth year, vision has become an essential resource for thousands of architects, technologists, designers, developers, specifiers and their clients.

Celebrating design, specification and product innovation in creating smarter buildings and better places, Vision’s aim is to always push forward to future-proof design in construction. The show provides an international focus for innovative products and building solutions, bringing together some of the best designs and leading figures from across Western Europe for two days of business, learning and networking.

Some of the 2018 highlights will include; over 100 major brands and innovative startups, hundreds of cutting-edge products and building solutions, including research and development into the latest software and over 100 hours of free seminars providing a unique industry insight across four theatres.

Vision is also focusing on international conversations, an opportunity to meet and exchange ideas with continental counterparts, presented through a collection of pavilions from Belgium, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Luxembourg and Latvia.

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Ambitious plans are in place to grow the exhibition and extend Vision’s Educational Programme, whose supporters include the RIBA, CIAT, BRE, New London Architecture &

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Jeanette Veldekamp

Patrik Schumacher

Celebrating design, specification and product innovation in creating smarter buildings and better places, Vision’s aim is to always push forward to future-proof design in construction.

the London Festival of Architecture. Vision will play host to over 100 international industry experts to deliver another highly acclaimed seminar programme.

With four content-packed seminar theatres over two days, we’ll be asking big questions of big names in architecture, engineering, and urban development, across three big themes: 1. Added Value With urbanism, infrastructure and Architecture being fundamental to the economic success of cities, neighbourhoods, institutions, companies and brands, how can we quantify and maximize the impact of high-quality design on society, economic

sustainability and commercial success?

2. Health, Wellbeing & Sustainability How can we design buildings and places that promote healthy environments and sustainable lifestyles, whilst also being efficient to build and run?

3. Common Good What steps can we take to ensure that our buildings and public spaces are inclusive, safe and welcoming and make a positive contribution to civic life?

To find out more and to register for your FREE place visit visionlondon.com or call 0203 409 0623.

With keynote presentations from Patrick Schumacher, Principal, Zaha Hadid Architects and Chris Wilkinson, Director at Wilkinson Eyre, speakers confirmed so far include: 1. Indy Johar, Dark Matter 2. Finn Williams, Co-Founder & CEO, Public Practice 3. Chris Wilkinson, Wilkinson Eyre 4. Rab Bennetts, Director, Bennetts Associates 5. Ben rogers, Director, Centre for London 6. Alex de Rijke /Jasmin Sohi, dRMM 7. Jeanette Veldekamp, Associate Director, Chapman Taylor 8. David West, Founding Director, Studio Egret West 9. David Partridge, Managing Partner, Argent Services LLP 10. Max Farrell, Partner, Farrells 11. Mairead Carroll, Programme Director Housing, London First 12. Mike Emmerich, Founding Director, Metro Dynamics

Sarah Wigglesworth

Max Farrell

13. Sarah Wigglesworth, Director, Sarah Wigglesworth Architects 14. Martin Lydon, Associate, Haworth Thompkins 15. Paul Monaghan, AHMM 16. Rachel Bagenal, Naked House 17. Jonathan Kendall, FletcherPriest 18. Harbinder Singh Birdi, Partner, Hawkins Brown 19. Paul Foulkes, Building Automation Manager, WAGO 20. Linda Thiel, Partner, White Arkitekter 21. Christina Seilern, Studio Seilern Architects 22. Phil Coffey, Founder, Coffey Architects 23. Earle Arney, Founder & CEO, Arney Fender Katsalidis 24. Mike Stiff, Co-Founder, Stiff + Trevillion 25. David Perkins, Principal, Perkins + Will 26. Ron Bakker, Founding Partner, PLP

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Latest News British and migrant workers at risk of exploitation on UK construction sites, says CIOB The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) is urging UK contractors to face up to the significant human rights risks in their supply chains, with the launch of a new report that finds both British and foreign workers at risk of exploitation.

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riticising the industry’s slow response to the Modern Slavery Act, CIOB’s report highlights the aggressive business models that are creating an environment for unethical procurement and recruitment practices, and the systemic auditing failures that are allowing criminals to infiltrate major projects undetected.

Problems are set at the top of supply chains with lowest cost tendering, abuse of the retentions system and late payment pricing out ethical practice. The situation is creating an imbalance of power that leaves all nationalities vulnerable to exploitation. Illegal activities such as blacklisting are also believed to be continuing, despite recent high profile court cases.

Major contractors in construction typically have long and fragmented supply chains, with little visibility beyond tiers one or two. They are also heavily reliant on temporary migrant labour, a significant indicator of risk. Nevertheless, the report found examples of complacency and disbelief that major projects were vulnerable to criminal infiltration and human trafficking.

This contrasted with incidents of modern slavery being found on major UK infrastructure programmes, PFI hospital projects, power plants, recycling centres, renovation projects, demolition sites and local authority schemes.

The report highlights:

t How industry is conflating immigration checks with t t

t t

modern slavery checks. This is ineffective because many people trapped in modern slavery have a legitimate right to work in the UK. Severe weaknesses in commercial auditing models, with auditors disincentivised to report problems to the police.

Poor transparency in supply chain reporting standards, with many eligible companies failing to produce a modern slavery report in the first annual reporting cycle. A significant number of published statements do not follow minimum legal requirements, including being visible on the company homepage and being signed off by a board director.

A tendency for companies to water down their modern slavery statements to remove mention of risk, against the spirit of the Modern Slavery Act. Examples of sharp practice, with major players defaulting to legal compliance exercises that push responsibility onto their less well-resourced suppliers. This is also against the spirit of the legislation.

Construction and the Modern Slavery Act includes interviews with a number of leaders and influencers, including:

t Independent anti-slavery commissioner Kevin Hyland OBE t The late Paul Broadbent, former chief executive t t t

of the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority (GLAA) Leading barrister Caroline Haughey QC Chief constable for Devon and Cornwall Police and national policing lead for modern slavery Shaun Sawyer Justine Currell, executive director of Unseen and the Modern Slavery Helpline

The report explores the legal, investor and social pressures for driving change. It also highlights examples of industry best practice as well as platforms for information sharing, such as the GLAA’s construction forum. Strategies for rehabilitating survivors of slavery are included through the Co-op Group’s Bright Future programme.

CIOB is calling for a new industry narrative: asking contractors to acknowledge that every supply chain is at risk and collaborate more widely to combat crime.

It is launching a Routemap to Fair Business which sets out steps for raising standards for all workers and suppliers, encouraging a more proactive approach to tackling systemic issues.

Chris Blythe OBE, chief executive at the CIOB said:

“It’s time to get real about the challenges facing UK construction. Contrary to public perceptions, modern slavery is not confined to small illegal operators. Criminals are attracted to big business because of the greater profits that they can earn. Unscrupulous labour providers, operating in the grey area of the law, are also creating misery for thousands of British and foreign workers.

“We need to change the conversation that we have with clients, our peers and the media.

Suppliers and labour agencies should be rewarded for finding and reporting problems, contractors need to promote fairer business models and clients need to be more explicit about their ethical expectations. This goes to the heart of professional leadership. We need to empower everyone working in this industry to act, share and collaborate for the greater good.”

A Vole In One– mass migration of endangered water vole proves big success for aggregate industries As part of an avid commitment to helping safeguard the cherished wildlife on its areas of operation, this spring saw the dedicated Aggregate Industries team complete a major water vole relocation – in one of its biggest conservation projects to date.

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he much-loved water vole was once a common sight in the UK’s wild.

However, thanks to a combination of habitat loss and water pollution, the former British wildlife staple is declining at an alarming rate of as much as 30% in the last ten years and is now the UK’s fastest declining mammal.

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Understandably then, when planning to embark on a major modification of its flagship satellite quarry on the Isle of Grain in Kent – involving extending works on a new area of land identified to have water vole habitats – Aggregate Industries, a champion of British wildlife, took every measure possible to negate any impact on the endangered species.

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Following approval from the Natural England Licence to implement plans to safely capture and relocate the water voles, the business, working alongside Derek Gow Consultants, the UK’s leading expert in water vole conservation, commenced a four-week capture programme.

This involved the safe migration of water voles

to a dedicated safe place in Exeter while the modification works take place.

ecological responsibility, we feel very passionate about doing our bit to help.

No easy feat, the rough terrain, difficulties in gaining access and operations in progress, not to mention high levels of rainfall causing flooding, meant there were a number of challenges that needed to be managed very closely in order to ensure the programme’s delivery. Thanks to the sheer commitment and hard work of all involved though, all water voles were successfully migrated to their specially-designed, temporary new home on 22 April 2018.

“That’s why, back in 2014 when we first appointed an ecology expert to carry out a full assessment of the land we were planning to work on, a large number of water voles were identified, therefore, we wanted to do everything in our power to keep them out of harm’s way.

Testament to Aggregate Industries’ unrivalled commitment to safeguarding the ecology on the areas it resides, this initial aspect of the project has cost in excess of £200k thus far.

Steve Campbell, Project Manager at Aggregate Industries, comments: “It’s a real tragedy, but the reality is that the much-loved water vole, once a staple of our British wildlife, is veering towards extinction if current rates of decline continue.

As such, as a business deeply committed to its

“It’s been a long and arduous process but well worth it – it was wonderful to see the voles safely arrive in their temporary new home, and we are happy to say they have settled in soundly.”

Reflecting on Aggregate Industries approach to the migration process, Derek Gow of Derek Gow Consultants commended the team for their efforts: “In comparing this project to others in and around London taking place right now, Aggregate Industries demonstrated a greater understanding of the tasks than I’ve seen on any other sites.’’

For further information on Aggregate Industries please visit www.aggregate.com

Latest News Nearly 80% of builders call for licensing scheme to crush the cowboys, says FMB Almost 80% of builders are calling for more regulation in the construction industry to end the tyranny of cowboy builders, according to the Federation of Master Builders (FMB).

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he FMB is calling on the Government to introduce a licensing scheme in construction as part of its new Agenda ‘Raising the bar: A post-Grenfell agenda for quality and professionalism in construction’.

Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said: “Until we introduce a licensing scheme in construction, cowboy builders will continue to run rampant in our industry. Licensing would ensure a minimum level of competence and professionalism and give consumers greater assurance when hiring a builder. Unlike in the US and Germany, anyone can be a builder in the UK. What this means is that we have allowed a significant minority of cowboy builders to give the whole construction industry a bad name. Our latest research shows that almost 80 per cent of our members are so fed up with rogue builders tarnishing their reputation, they are in favour of introducing a licencing scheme.

Our research among consumers also shows that one third of home owners in the UK are so anxious about hiring a dodgy builder that they don’t commission any building work whatsoever. What’s more, the average home owner would spend around £40,000 on major home improvement projects over the next five years if they could be guaranteed a positive experience with their builder. It’s time to release this pent up demand for

building work through a licensing scheme consumers can trust.”

Berry concluded: “Even more important than the economic benefits that would come from increasing quality and professionalism in the industry are the safety benefits. The Grenfell Tower tragedy reminded us of the price paid when things go wrong in the construction industry. Grenfell raised serious questions about standards, regulation and compliance within the construction sector and although we await the results of the Hackitt

“Until we introduce a licensing scheme in construction, cowboy builders will continue to run rampant in our industry.

Licensing would ensure a minimum level of competence and professionalism and give consumers greater assurance when hiring a builder.” Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB

Review, we want to start a wider conversation about how we can drive up quality and professionalism in construction. As well as calling on the Government to introduce a licensing scheme for builders, the FMB’s new Agenda calls for mandatory warranties for building projects that require building control sign-off to protect consumers further. The FMB would also like to work with industry to develop a ‘general builder’ qualification which would seek to recognise the highest standards of professionalism in the industry.”

Jason Ryan, a home owner living in West London, was a victim of a rogue building firm earlier this year. Ryan commented on the introduction of a licencing scheme in construction: “At the start of this year, builders were carrying out essential improvements to my home in West London. The whole process turned out to be an absolute nightmare. Our builder would often turn up late, or not at all, and communication was always poor.

We would try to call him and often not hear back. The work they eventually carried out was sub-standard – for example, the grooves in the door frames were hacked into and were left uneven and messy. I think all builders should be required to have a licence to protect people like me from having these nightmarish experiences. It was very stressful and has put me off hiring a builder in the future unless I absolutely have to.”

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They can retain their existing floor but still give a room or their whole home a completely new look and feel.

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RRNews - Issue 31

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LEVATO MONO

Porcelain paver system and coordinating internal tiling The Deck Tile Co’s new website www.surface360.co.uk now has +150 colours and finishes in their Levato Mono 20mm porcelain ranges plus co-ordinating internal tiling – enabling seamless visual transition between internal and external spaces.

20mm porcelain pavers 40x80 45x90 60x60 75x75 80x80 30x120 40x120 60x120 ‘Floating floor’ – installation over single ply membranes Eternal product - zero maintenance required – offering massive overlife savings Highly abrasion and stain resistant Highly slip resistant ; R11 AB+C Lightweight – 45kgs per m2

INTRODUCING OUR NEW WEBSITE: WWW.SURFACE360.CO.UK WWW.SURFACE360.CO.UK

High load bearing and impact resistance Timber, stone & cementitious effects Completely non porous Ideal for balconies, roof terraces and piazzas, for both commercial and residential use Frost proof Height adjustable/slope correcting support system ranging from 9mm up to 550mm

Company News Screwfix enlists army of New website tradespeople to makeover charity is all about for latest campaign

enhancing the customer journey

Mitsubishi Electric has launched a new website to improve access to information for customers with a seamless, modern design that will tailor content to suit visitors.

“

Our website has served us really well but we wanted to make our products and information even easier to access,” explained Deane Flint, UK Branch Vice President for Mitsubishi Electric.

Outdoor projects campaign supports foundation for homeless young people in Devon

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oday, Screwfix and agency collaborators McCann Central and Viewpoint are set to debut their latest Outdoor Projects campaign, which focussed on supporting a charity for young people.

“We’ve therefore looked at every single aspect and developed a new site that is stylish and really easy to navigate.”

Filmed on location at The Amber Foundation in Devon, the integrated campaign showcases Britain’s fastest growing retailer’s outdoor project offering – in a way that benefits a community project close to Screwfix’s Yeovil heartland.

The site delivers customised content relevant to installers, specifiers, corporate end users and homeowners and will intuitively present focused information to visitors making navigation easier and everything more accessible.

Screwfix sent an army of tradespeople to complete the renovation project at The Amber Foundation.

Providing tools, equipment and skilled tradespeople, the work included everything from construction work and decking to outdoor decorating and commercial landscaping.

Installers will be able to access a vast selection of tools and apps to aid design, commissioning and installation, whilst Specifiers will be able to download CPD-accredited guides to the latest construction legislation, as well as find information on the latest class leading HVAC solutions.

Corporate customers and individual Homeowners will be able to easily source a local accredited installer and see examples of innovative case studies and cutting-edge solutions.

The updated website is available at http://les.mitusbishielectric.co.uk.

including two bursts of TV activity that will also take place during key periods over Easter and May bank holiday. The spots will be in addition to digital and print ads, front of house advertising and online, highlighting the great deals and product range on offer.

Caroline Welsh, Director of Brand and Marketing said: “We’re so proud to have helped The Amber Foundation out, the charity does great work within the community, helping young homeless people transform their lives.

The core message of this campaign is that there are real tradespeople making a real difference in their communities, up and down the country, completing projects efficiently and to a high standard.”

Recognising that completing four key outdoor projects would give the site a complete make-over was key in Screwfix’s decision to work with the charity, to leave a lasting legacy and enable the charity to continue making a real difference.

Stephen Ballantyne, from The Amber Foundation, added: “The Amber Foundation supports some of the most marginalised young people in society, giving them a temporary home and the support they need to re-build their lives. We would like to say an enormous thank you to Screwfix for choosing to support us and for making a real difference to how the centre looks and feels. Screwfix has made a big impact on the day-to-day life of young people who call Amber their home”.

RRNews - Issue 31

“We’ve also linked the site to our awardwinning blog site, The Hub, so customers can easily access a huge amount of useful information on legislation, environmental issues and the latest advances in technology, all on one site,” adds Flint.

Film and photography captured throughout the make-over project will feature across all communications throughout the spring cycle

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Heating, Ventilation & Insulation Panasonic Announces Full Switch to R32 in 2018 Panasonic is once again leading the change on adopting renewable energy sources, announcing that in 2018 it will make a full switch to R32. Panasonic will consolidate its residential and commercial air-conditioning ranges with less than 3kg of refrigerant, including its newly designed RAC floor consoles, split, multi-split and cassettes, to be compatible with R32.

Sprayed & Injected Insulation MPI are specialist approved applicators of sprayed & injected Polyurethane foam systems, with over 30 years of experience.

According to 2014 EU F-Gas Regulation (517/2014), Europe must reduce the Global Warming Performance year by year. This regulation defines how each industry needs to contribute to reach the total European target. In the airconditioning industry this affects Single Split air-conditioning systems containing less than 3kg of fluorinated greenhouse gases. The refrigerant within this system must be less than 750 GWP by the year 2025. Panasonic is ready now (in 2018) to supply any kind of Residential Single Split and Multi Split system with up to 5 ports in addition to Commercial Splits of up to 14kW. For many years, R32 has been used as a component part of the R407C and R410A refrigerant blends. On its own, however, R32 offers a number of significant advantages over blended refrigerants.

Firstly, R32 has a much lower impact on global warming when compared to its blended predecessors - its Global Warming Potential (GWP), is significantly lower than that of R410A. When considering future legislation and the anticipated reduction in the availability of refrigerants, plus a drive towards the use of lower GWP refrigerants; Panasonic products will be future proofed.

R32 is also a more efficient alternative to R410A, with realistic efficiency increases of up to 10%, leading to significant energy savings for building services managers.

As R32 is already a familiar component of R410A, so the switch doesn’t present any new challenges to installers. Procedures including piping and testing remain the same. There may be a need for slightly different tooling, such as recovery systems and leak detectors, but again this should not present a significant challenge. As with all refrigerants, R32 must be safely handled at all times and spaces properly ventilated when it is being charged and recovered from air conditioning units.

With their unique properties:•

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Air Tightness • Waterproof • Eliminates condensation • BBA Approved • LABC approved • Low K factor • Closed cell • High strength • Excellent adhesion A system for virtually every application

Insulation & Stabilisation From m cavity wall, including hard to treat & narrow w cavities, under-roof, over-roof, to side ZDOOV Ă€RRUV VRႈWV Also Marine & Buoyancy systems A 03, FDQ RႇHU 8 YDOXH FDOFXODWLRQV WR %5 DQG &RQGHQVDWLRQ 5LVN $QDO\VLV WR %6 WR FRPSO\ ZLWK 3DUW / RI WKH %XLOGLQJ 5HJXODWLRQV &ODVV &ODVV ÂżUH UDWHG V\VWHPV DUH DYDLODEOH together with a range of protective coatings, including vapour barriers, breather membranes, weathercoatings & FKHPLFDOO\ UHVLVWDQW 3RO\8UHD KLJK SHUIRUPDQFH FRDWLQJV

MPI Ltd., Church Street, Westhoughton, BOLTON, BL5 3QW T: 01942 811839 F: 01942 812310 mpinsulations@btconnect.com www.mpinsulations.co.uk

For more information, please visit www.aircon.panasonic.eu

RRNews - Issue 31

3KW FAN HEATERS JOIN THE ELECTRONIC 7-DAY TIMER RANGE

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The WMH3E Chelsea and HE6137E Flowzone fan heaters are the latest addition to Consort Claudgen’s Electronic 7-day Timer range. Both heaters have a digital control panel with easy-to-read display and four large control buttons with audible and tactile feedback. They are robust to suit demanding environments and are quiet in operation.

These heaters offer 6 heating periods per day, 7 days a week and have an optional open/close window detection feature which reacts intelligently to a sudden temperature change in the area or room.

They are also easy to operate and can set comfort and setback temperatures which helps reduces the overall energy consumption.

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The Electronic 7-day Timer range also includes low surface temperature heaters which are designed to suit environments with vulnerable people such as children and elderly residents.

For more details, email: sales@consortepl.com or contact Sales at 01646 692172.

Underoor Air Conditioning Fit-out at Hanover Street

AET Flexible Space, underfloor air conditioning specialists have just completed a Cat-B Fit-out of the first floor at 11-12 Hanover Street for incoming tenant, Canadian property investor, Quadreal.

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he underfloor system at the prominently positioned Mayfair offices was originally installed in the year 2000 for Japanese construction company Teisei and has proved to be an adaptable services solution for the building over the past 18 years.

The system at Hanover Street is the CAM-C system with underfloor supply air and underfloor return air. Each floor is effectively one zone, with a single CAM downflow unit supplying conditioned air to the underfloor plenum. This conditioned air is supplied into the workspace via fan terminal units, known as Fantiles which are recessed into the floor

As well as the essential repairs, three additional Fantiles were supplied to cater for occupational increase and Quadreal opted to install sound attenuator boxes beneath all Fantiles in order to minimise noise transfer between cellular offices and grant additional privacy.

plenum. Approximately 80 standard size TU4 Fantiles are located over the building’s five floors and a fully stringered Nesite raised access flooring system supplied by AET is installed throughout.

The original refurbishment of the property was specified to a high standard, designed

by Architect, D.E.G.W offering a large, open plan floorplate, a generous floor to ceiling height of 2.7m, featuring full height glazing, 600mm2 carpet tiles for added flexibility and a high specification metal tile ceiling.

M+E Consultant, Roger Preston & Partners specified the underfloor services solution to permit this high specification and offer maximum flexibility for future change and reconfiguration according to tenant demands.

AET engineers worked with fit-out contractor Think-inside on the recent Cat-B works. The space had been returned to Cat-A status after the previous tenancy ended, leaving a blank canvas for new first floor occupier Quadreal. An initial validation survey of the UfAC system on the first floor identified repairs required to the underfloor baffle and a number of damaged return air grilles to be replaced. The underfloor baffle being essential to maintain properly as it divides the underfloor plenum into supply and return air paths.

As well as the essential repairs, three additional Fantiles were supplied to cater for occupational increase and Quadreal opted to install sound attenuator boxes beneath all Fantiles in order to minimise noise transfer between cellular offices and grant additional privacy. Five Flextouch wall controllers were installed in the boardroom and offices permitting users easy control of temperature and fan speed as well as CO2 monitoring.

- Issue 31

The services upgrade and interior fit-out works were completed in April 2018 with Quadreal occupying the space immediately after completion.

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Reinventing Fire with Ortal

Indoor/Outdoor Tunnel Fire

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Front Facing

Constantly updated to lead in design and innovation, Ortal fireplaces add an unexpected architectural feature that bring wonder to any surrounding. Combining beauty with technology, Ortal are transforming the fireplace into a modern masterpiece. With a varied product line over 80 models, Ortal welcomes the vision of its clients uniting unique designs and solid engineering, finished with a rich selection of special features including reflective interiors, dual line burners and protective mesh. Safe, beautiful and efficient, Ortal fireplaces can be installed where others cannot in a wide range of spectacular formats for use with natural gas or LPG. Ortal fireplaces are exclusively available through Robeys, so why not come and see the impressive display at our showroom in Belper.

Robeys Ltd, Riverside, Goods Road, Belper, Derbyshire, DE56 1UU Tel: (+44) 01773 820940. info@robeys.co.uk www.robeys.co.uk

A Passion For Quality At Robeys we have a unique approach when it comes to helping create a fabulous home. Continuously pushing the boundaries in order to supply high quality products, our portfolio includes premium quality brands to compliment any type of interior and exterior lifestyle. With nearly forty years of experience helping our clients build homes of distinction, we know that our customers demand much more from us which is why we are keen to expand our unique product range with the help of the finest craftsmen from around the world.

Our purpose built riverside showroom, situated in the heart of the UK in Belper, Derbyshire, boast over 250 exquisite products many exhibited in lives displays. Beyond our showroom, we have established a solid reputation for quality products and are acknowledged as ones of the UK’s leading suppliers of exclusive fireplaces, stoves, cookers and refrigerators.

With a network of valued retailers supplying most parts of the UK and Ireland, the level of care, technical knowledge and attention to detail provided by our highly-trained staff is what makes dealing with Robeys such a pleasure and is the reason why so many of our customers come back time after time.

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custom-made fireplaces suiting specific requirements sizes, finished with a rich selection of special features including reflective interiors, dual line burners and protective mesh.

Safe, beautiful and efficient, Ortal fireplaces can be installed where others cannot in a wide range of spectacular formats for use with natural gas or LPG. Brunner Traditionally innovative, Brunner’s history stretches back over 70 years with a continuous aim of new and sophisticated designs that fit perfectly into any living space. With top quality craftsmanship behind the production of all Brunner fireplaces and wood burning fireboxes, these long-lasting and simply excellent products give their customers joy and satisfaction for decades. These beautifully finished fireboxes are available in a variety of formats including front facing, corner, panorama and tunnel.

Brunner Urfeuer

Rediscover fire with Ortal.

Creating large room sealed gas fires in the most spectacular formats since 1986, Ortal offer a varied product line of over 80 models including island and curved fireplaces. Adding an unexpected architectural feature that bring wonder to any surround, Ortal’s state-of-the-art gas fires provide heating solutions that are both creative and effective.

With extensive industry knowledge and the close attention paid to worldwide trends, many of Ortal’s exclusive innovations have been patented allowing them to provide partner clients, designers, architects and private customers the most effective and cutting-edge design solutions.

In addition to the above, we are also UK importer and distributor of classical and contemporary fireplaces and stoves from the renowned Italian manufacturer Piazzetta and award-winning, Ecodesign ready wood burning and gas stoves from Danish brand RAIS. Details of our full range of fires and associated products with much more information can be found on our website www. robeys.co.uk, alternatively you can call us on 01773 820940.

RRNews - Issue 31

Ortal welcomes the vision of its clients combining innovative technology with unique designs and solid engineering to develop

However, it is the Urfeuer open fireplace that is the real showstopper of this brand. Manufactured by Brunner for over 20 years, Urfeuer translates into ‘primal fire’ and with its modern, straight line design and minimalistic cast iron protective lining, the Urfeuer has no glass and no technical fuss, allowing you to be as close as possible to your fire.

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Wetrooms

Sarah Viney of Marmox considers the attractions and challenges of creating a wetroom

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wetroom is effectively a fully waterproofed bathroom, where walls and floors are ‘tanked’ or sealed with layers of water resistant material, which stops damp from seeping out into the fabric of the building.

Their advantages though, are many, perhaps the main one being that - freed of baths, trays, screens or other enclosures - they can make a striking addition that increases the value of your home. Wet rooms are, in general, easier to clean, as there’s no shower screen or tray to worry about and if you go for a wall-hung sink and toilet, the floor can be kept completely clear. In addition they should prove more hygienic as the opportunities for mould growth are much restricted compared to a standard bathroom layout. Although not always designed with this in mind, wetrooms are particularly good for the elderly or less able bodied. With no shower step to negotiate, adding half height screens can allow a carer to remain dry whilst assisting someone in the showering area.

Unquestionably, a wetroom allows greater flexibility for future adaptation: ready for any decline in the mobility for the end user.

A further argument in their favour is that for those considering spending out on a new shower enclosure, a wet room without one can work out at a very similar price, while looking a lot more modern and stylish. A couple of caveats, though, need to be heeded if your wetroom is going to be a success: It is absolutely vital that the installation is professionally waterproofed, then tiled or lined from floor to ceiling – which costs more than simply tiling above a bath.

RRNews - Issue 31

In some respects a wetroom can be viewed as a blank canvas – free from most of the normal obstructions – which can then permit greater design freedom in respect of the finishes. Tiles are the most popular wall and floor covering, but it is circumspect to choose non-porous options such as ceramic or porcelain. Porous materials (including slate, marble and limestone) unfortunately require sealing every few months to prevent water damage. Meanwhile, floor tiles should be non-slip for obvious safety reasons and many people will want the additional comfort of underfloor heating. This will not only keep the surface warm underfoot, but help the water evaporate. Sheet vinyl or even

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In some respects a wetroom can be viewed as a blank canvas – free from most of the normal obstructions – which can then permit greater design freedom in respect of the finishes.

composite materials, which are seamless and non-porous for low-maintenance, are other options for both walls and floors as are the many attractive panel alternatives available.

Often manufactured in the form of high pressure laminates, these are large format which can feature special interlocks or the use of joint profiles, to avoid the need for grout and thus the almost inevitable future chore of scrubbing or bleaching to get rid of stains and mould.

The long term durability and success of any wall or floorcovering is, however, very much dependant on the stability of the substrate. Ideally the background for any finishes should be sound, completely water resistant and, if possible, provide a degree of thermal insulation. Whether the structure of the building is traditional masonry, timber frame or some other hybrid, a wetroom will benefit from the installation of a well proven tile-backer board to present a uniform background which also offers excellent bonding characteristics for tile cement or other adhesives. Those with a core of extruded polystyrene (XPS) and a facing of reinforced polymer concrete meet all of these aspirations and can also support substantial loads including wheelchairs, when laid across joists or other sub-floors.

In all situations, adequate provision must be made to remove water from the room, which requires both a drain outlet and direction

for the run-off. For a workable wetroom therefore, probably the best way of achieving this is to make use of a pre-sloped tileable shower base.

The most user-friendly option is to purchase one which offers the same positive physical characteristics as the best tile-backer boards, but incorporates an adequately sloping surface and an integral drain that is adjustable for direction of outflow and it is essential that the waterproofing membrane laid beneath the tiling can be permanently sealed to this drain.

Given that these multiple criteria are met, then with their ease of maintenance and the sense of luxury, a contemporary wetroom is considered super-stylish by both design professionals and property pundits, meaning that – properly executed – they can add to both the enjoyment and the value of a home.

For further information please contact: Marmox (Uk) Ltd. Caxton House.

101-103 Hopewell Drive Chatham. Kent ME5 7NP. Tel: 01634 835290 Fax: 01634 835299 Email: sales@marmox.co.uk Web: www.marmox.co.uk

Heating, Ventilation & Insulation SIME’S UNIQUE INTEGRATED HEAT PUMP AND BOILER BRINGS REVOLUTION TO RENEWABLES SECTOR! Sime has launched its Murelle Revolution 30, the first completely integrated boiler and heat pump in a single cased product. Using an ErP A++ 30 kW Murelle boiler and completely sealed 4kW output heat pump, Sime is targeting its Murelle Revolution 30 at new build, social housing and the retrofit renewables markets.

Available from the beginning of April 2018, the Murelle Revolution 30 is a single compact unit, and can be installed by any registered Gas Safe installer in a single installation process, without requiring an additional F-gas-registered installer to be present.

The unique Murelle Revolution 30 should be installed inside and hung on the wall like a conventional boiler. Possessing two inlets, in addition to the flue outlet, the Revolution provides heat and hot water, achieving an average seasonal heating performance of 134%, granting A++ energy efficiency, y, according to the ErP Ecodesign Regulation.

HVAC Control the Sensible way > Control any form of heating; radiators, underfloor etc. and any form of comfort cooling > Make each room a zone > iPhone / Android access via App > HVAC controls always provided with independent/backup user interface > Building size or complexity of HVAC plant is no problem > Custom Control Panel for plantroom > Interfaces to AMX, Crestron, Control4, Savant, RTI with pre-written, proven “drivers” > Interfaces to most major aircon systems (Daikin, Mitsubishi, Toshiba, Sanyo etc.)

Sensible Heat offers a full backup service to resellers,including design advice, supply and commissioning.

We can work with you to create a fully integrated solution – don’t worry, you won’t need to become an HVAC expert!

Do the sensible thing and contact us now.

KEY FACTS AND BENEFITS • • • • • •

The Murelle Revolution 30 is 900mm x 600mm x 350 0mm A++ heating efficiency class Optimum size and no external unit Constant COP of heat pump Series operation of heat pump and boiler Installation the same as a gas boiler

For further information visit: www.sime.co.uk or call:l 0345 901 1114.

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ADVANCED H E AT I N G

Sensible Heat are sole distributors of Honeywell Hometronic in UK and Ireland.

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tel / fax 01273 475834 e info@sensibleheat.com www.sensibleheat.com

RRNews - Issue 31

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Rinnai Hot Water – instant, continuous, limitless and sensibly economic for all types of commercial sites - the Solo Stored range Rinnai, the worldrenowned innovator for every possible type of commercial site, has revolutionised the supply and delivery of hot water units and systems since the launch of its fully electronically-controlled gas-fired continuous flow product ranges.

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ne major part of the Rinnai Infinity condensing water heaters is the Solo range - a highly efficient Heavy-Duty gas-fired recirculatory water heater with a completely insulated stainless steel storage cylinder.

The combination of continuous flow units with a storage cylinder for preheated hot water allows for periods of peak hour use. This is of importance at those sites where limited gas services may dictate the use and application of water heating systems. The Rinnai Solo answers this problem - with system efficiency, ease of installation and end-user satisfaction.

Rinnai’s Infinity Solo low NOX water heaters can be used for the ‘Direct to Outlet’ system, and secondary return systems. Infinity Solo will deliver a constant output temperature of 60°C or higher, ensuring stored water is at levels that significantly reduce any risk of legionella proliferation.

The design parameters of this product - it is all in one compact footprint - empowering specifiers, designers, installers and engineers to benefit from unique Rinnai technology in applications it was once not previously possible.

For instance, the Infinity Solo has 35kW, 37kW and 54kW sized heat engines, ensuring sites with a smaller gas meter can readily use this technology. The larger Infinity Solo model will also act as a high-efficiency alternative to gas fired storage appliances that still exist in today’s market and can be easily installed on a ‘like for like’ basis where plant room services are concerned.

The cylinder is stainless steel, and this reduces the weight compared to glass lined models, and it makes transportation and installation a lot easier.

As well as the difference in weight, the cylinders also have extremely low heat loss figures (as low as 1.41kW/h day), so the user pays less to maintain the heat within the tank.

One other benefit of the Infinity Solo using a stainless-steel cylinder is that the life expectancy of the material is far greater than that of a glass-lined equivalent as glass can suffer from thermal shock causing it to crack after a period of time.

Certain Infinity Solo models are renewables compatible and supplied prefitted with a coil, meaning that the primary energy source will always be from renewable gains and the complementary Rinnai water heater will only apply the precise amount of gas to boost the difference in temperature.

RRNews - Issue 31

Rinnai’s Infinity brand carries the widest range of condensing gas-fired water heating units and systems- and all are A rated on ErP - on the market today with the most impressive efficiencies in operation, leading the field in technological innovation.

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Key Features of the Solo range are: Stainless steel cylinder with high thermal efficiency and Ultra Low standing heat loss; Highly efficient continuous flow water heater is used as the heating booster; Rinnai Patented Lean-rich Low NOx burner (Solo20 & Solo32 only); Compatible with Renewable heating source through the renewable pipe in the cylinder (Solo20 & Solo32 only); Industry leading higher modulating ratio; Compact design for limited space; Inbuilt lime scale detector; Inbuilt immersion heater for the emergency backup; Easy read fault diagnostics via Status monitor; 10 years cylinder warranty (subject to terms & conditions).

For more information on the RINNAI product range visit www.rinnaiuk.com

Refurbishment of Chorley Hospital gives children a Younique® experience Washroom design using Formica® Laminate helps inspire tomorrow’s doctors and nurses

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theme. Each area is distinct and inspiring, and although clinical, they break-away from the sterile look that is mostly associated with hospital ward design.

he refurbishment of a 1930s building by multi-disciplinary practice, Frank Whittle Partnership Limited, into a state of the art children’s educational centre is the first of its kind in the UK. The architects specified Younique®

by Formica Group for the washrooms at this ground breaking NHS experience centre at Chorley & South Ribble Hospital.

The new LIFE (Learning Inspiration Future Employment) centre offers the people of Lancashire from the age of 5 upwards the unique opportunity to learn about various hospital operations while gaining a greater understanding of the NHS and its functionality.

The centre is set up with a range of departments including mock wards, A&E, X-ray and triage. A state of the art 3D experience theatre allows children to find out more about the human anatomy, diseases and healthcare, offering real insight into the day to day goings on of a hospital.

In the washrooms, the use of Younique by Formica Group’s

“Formica laminate was a natural choice for this project, not just in terms of its aesthetic capabilities but also in regards to the surface material’s properties being ideal for the healthcare environment.”

David Simmons, associate partner and interior designer, Frank Whittle Partnership Limited

digitally rendered panels has enabled the project team to create a fun design feature with an educational theme on the toilet doors. Formica® laminate has also been used for the lockers and IPS (integrated plumbing systems) to provide a consistent aesthetic.

David continues: “We were looking for something different for this very exciting project and this included the design of the toilets too. We wanted these to be appealing to all age groups, yet somehow incorporate an educational theme. Our solution was to design the washroom doors with different images to illustrate the various body systems.

Frank Whittle Partnership Limited focussed the design on what the future of hospital wards could look like. All rooms have been colour coded to aid with direction around the centre. For example, a purple scheme leads the way to the ward area with the beds clad in timber featuring purple banding to continue the

David concludes: “From a design perspective, the project stimulates visual interest throughout, from the colour coded zones to the bespoke graphics. However, the most important aspect is how the centre will be used to educate young people and the enthusiasm by everyone that was involved in the job.”

RRNews - Issue 31

David Simmons, associate partner and interior designer, Frank Whittle Partnership Limited, comments: “Due to the project being for such a wide age range, we set out to ensure the design appealed to all age groups and was practical at the same time. On receiving the brief, our design was inspired by the very nature of the building’s purpose. Working with the forward thinking Widening Participation Team, who welcomed exciting and innovative ideas, helped too.”

“Formica laminate was a natural choice for this project, not just in terms of its aesthetic capabilities but also in regards to the surface material’s properties being ideal for the healthcare environment. We have used Formica Group products for years so we know how well it performs and we have never had any issues.

The Younique by Formica Group collection allowed us to print images of our choice which was perfect for what we wanted. We’d never used Younique before and we’re extremely happy we did.”

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In with the new and out with the old…

Or maybe not?

By Angela Love, director, Active

T

he British Council of Offices (BCO) currently estimates that two-thirds of the UK’s workforce are office-based. Additional research also suggests that we’ve barely achieved a two per cent increase in productivity over the last decade. As we’re all too aware, UK productivity levels leave a lot to be desired, and action clearly needs to be taken at both micro and macro levels to create the much-needed boost in productivity.

It’s not surprising then, that a record number of organisations are looking to revitalise their workplace environments in a bid to stimulate their own productivity levels.

It’s often assumed that an office refurbishment or relocation will automatically achieve operational benefits, however, recent research from workplace effectiveness experts, Leesman, shows this is unfortunately not the case, with just 34 per cent of workplace transformation projects delivering high performance results. The research also found that a substantial number of new workplaces miss the mark by not responding to considerations for personal comfort, spaces geared toward activitybased working, excessive noise levels, lack of natural light and general comfort.

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It’s often assumed that an office refurbishment or relocation will automatically achieve operational benefits, however, recent research from workplace effectiveness experts, Leesman, shows this is unfortunately not the case, with just 34 per cent of workplace transformation projects delivering high performance results.

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With vast resources being invested in refurbishment, relocation and fit-out projects, business leaders rightfully expect them to deliver significant benefits. There are, however, numerous factors that need to be taken into account for such projects to deliver on their promises.

Variety is key in the modern workplace.

With the ongoing shift towards activitybased working, where no individual ‘owns’ a specific workstation but rather teams occupy zones based on their task requirements, providing a range of spaces to accommodate different tasks is essential.

Creating a productive, effective, workplace is more than the walls, furniture and layout. It needs to be woven into the atmosphere and behaviour of the organisation through its leadership behaviours and management structures. Creating effective workplaces where teams can feel supported by their environments to perform at their peak is no longer a task that should be left up to the design team alone.

Even in more cellular workplaces, where cubicles and allocated desking are still either a requirement, or necessary for the type of work being carried out, space for alternative tasks, such as private meetings or social conversations with colleagues is still crucial.

Effective workplaces should incorporate quiet spaces for concentration and contemplation. This includes private and quiet spaces as well as settings that offer acoustic and visual privacy and spaces for focused work away from distraction. The design process of any office should begin with a detailed understanding of what the individual users of the space need to deliver. Their needs and daily tasks should be at the heart of the design solution and careful consideration should be given to their requirements. An employee-centric approach that looks at the needs of the team and their work modalities will result in an environment which, at the very least, facilitates productivity and, in truly successful scenarios, stimulates it to the point of delivering significant operational benefit.

Designing a workplace that reflects the company’s culture and values is as essential as designing one that supports them. At the same time, a leadership team’s desire for a new workspace that encourages refreshed working styles, for example, needs complementary behavioural transformation programs to help guide people through the change. When designing an office space, culture should be taken very seriously, designers should work to truly reflect the DNA of a client’s organisation in the overall layout and feel of a workspace.

Designers should work to create spaces that are reflective of the organisation, but beyond that, the client should be

taught how to capitalise on that space and maximise its potential. Other organisation-wide projects such as major new technology implementation would issue a manual of detailed process notes and often explanatory training about functionality. The same rigour applied to designing processes or systems to improve performance should also be applied to the design process of the office space.

The physical workplace is a key tool in the ongoing productivity endeavour, particularly in the areas of social cohesion, trust and information sharing. Every effort should be made to create workplaces that enable teams to perform at their best and be as productive as possible.

Paul Krugman, the famed economist and columnist for the New York Times said almost a quarter of a century ago, that “productivity isn’t everything, but in the long run it is almost everything. A country’s ability to improve its standard of living over time depends almost entirely on its ability to raise its output per worker”.

Creating a productive, effective, workplace is more than the walls, furniture and layout. It needs to be woven into the atmosphere and behaviour of the organisation through its leadership behaviours and management structures.

Creating effective workplaces where teams can feel supported by their environments to perform at their peak is no longer a task that should be left up to the design team alone. In a bid to revitalise productivity, the combined efforts of designers, facilities and real estate managers is surely the winning formula to creating workplaces that truly respond to the teams they support through increased comfort, purpose-built functionality and sustained wellbeing – something not only office workers, but the economy as a whole, could benefit from.

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5IF -JHIUCPY #SBDLOFMM t New café and revamped main reception help create a dynamic office space t Bold Mondrian inspired colours rejuvenate 90’s office building

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rchitectural practice gpad london ltd, redesigned the interior of The Lightbox, Bracknell. The late 1990’s office building now incorporates a new café and revamped main reception that creates a more dynamic and modern office building fit for the 21st Century.

The architects centred the design on bold Mondrian inspired colours to inject drama and interest into the building. A pantone gradient colour chart of yellow, grey and blue tones with shades graduating down throughout the interior of the three-storey building create stand out.

An impressive reception has been created with a monolithic yellow lift-core as a backdrop to a feature staircase creating a real impression on arrival into the building. This is in contrast to the adjacent walls fitted with the Pantone grey panels, which graduate from dark charcoal through to cooler shades as they reach the top of the atrium.

The reception ceiling incorporates feature Selene pendants encircling a skylight that provides additional light into the space for a bright and airy environment. The sunny tones continue with the upgrade of the lift lobby which has been wrapped in canary yellow vinyl for a bright, yet inviting finish that matches the cheerful shade of the resin lift floor. >>

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“We’ve created a contemporary office space by utilising vibrant colours mixed with high quality feature design elements such as the staircase, lighting and exposed services in the offices. This approach has enabled us to create a cohesive design theme throughout with limited budget.” Jeremy Wiggins, director, gpad london ltd The versatile grey and yellow theme continues into the ground floor café that has been opened up making it appealing for tenants and potential employees. Using pale grey hexagonal tiles on the walls, an eye catching pattern has been created with graduating shades of grey, complementing the mood boosting yellow accent features of the kitchen splashbacks and light fittings. The washrooms utilise the same colour theme and hexagonal tiles.

At design stage, suspended ceilings were to be incorporated into the build but when the original ceilings were stripped back a striking concrete soffit was revealed. While on site, the decision was made to leave the celling exposed with suspended services as a design feature – much sought after in contemporary offices. Acoustic baffles also help soften the sound reverberating as a result of the hard floor, ceiling and glazing.

As the building is a 15 minute walk from Bracknell station, the developers understood the need to include practical solutions to attract businesses and employees. Alongside a basement with car park and bike storage, additional bikes were purchased to offer an alternative solution to the walking commute.

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Jeremy Wiggins, director, gpad london ltd comments; “We’ve created a contemporary office space by utilising vibrant colours mixed with high quality feature design elements such as the staircase, lighting and exposed services in the offices. This approach has enabled us to create a cohesive design theme throughout with limited budget.”

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CRESTRON INTRODUCES HORIZONTAL SHEERS FOR ELEGANT NATURAL LIGHTING CONTROL Crestron, a global leader in residential automation and control technology, has introduced an elegant collection of Horizontal Sheers to its range of motorised Crestron Shading Solutions, providing one-touch control of natural light throughout your home.

Imagine controlling all the natural light within your home without even getting out of bed. With Crestron Horizontal Sheers, daylight can flood through the windows first thing in the morning, waking you up the natural way. If the sunlight gets too bright, Crestron Sheers can automatically filter the light and direct it away from your workspace. Then, at the end of the day, the Sheers will adjust to prepare for the evening’s ambience. Sheers can be programmed to operate via timed or pre-set schemes, or instantly adjusted at any time via a tap of a touchscreen, smart device or by asking Amazon Alexa. Manual operation is also possible.

Crestron’s elegant Sheers feature internal horizontal vanes that float between two layers of sustainablygrown hand-woven fabric to soften the view, filter or block light and diffuse glare. Thanks to this innovative design, the sheers can either tilt open to channel light or completely rise to provide an unobstructed view.

Crestron is the only company that designs, manufactures and supports all products in a home automation system. Crestron’s luxury Sheers can easily be integrated into any existing Crestron home automation system and are available from approved dealers and integrators. For more information visit www.crestron. com/shades or visit Crestron.com/ showroom.

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Tailor-made to your exact requirements, Horizontal Sheers are available in a range of sizes up to 8 feet wide by 8 feet in height – perfect for properties with a large glass façade, for example. A wide variety of fabric options are available, including 25 light filtering (translucent) block coloured or patterned fabrics, and 11 room darkening (opaque) coloured fabrics. With Crestron’s exclusive Quiet Motor TechnologyTM for almost silent operation, Shades have the versatility to transform any room, working in harmony with Crestron technology to enrich your home and make everyday living effortless.

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‘Unitised Systems for All’

by Wojciech Brożyna MD Aluprof UK More specifiers in the UK are becoming aware that Unitised systems are becoming more affordable and available through UK fabrication specialists. Simple to install by experienced teams on site, unitised systems can speed up the completion of the building envelope on site, whilst also catering for greater building movement.

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om Wells of Allford Hall Monaghan Morris Architects, comments, “Scotland Yard is the radical remodelling and extension of a 1930s building in Whitehall, to provide a new headquarters for the Metropolitan Police.

“The new west facade was designed as a more contemporary element using aluminium unitised curtain walling, manufactured in Poland by Aluprof. The system is a combination of glazed and solid bronze powder coated panels with a brise-soleil of different colour aluminium fins forming privacy and solar shading. The colour of the fins sampled the surrounding buildings, creating a rich tapestry which despite its modern form, complements its prestigious location.

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“Aluprof were able to produce bespoke extrusions to suit the architectural design and engineered the system to meet the strict performance requirements, whilst also advising on delivery, logistics and erection.

Due to tight access and proximity to neighbouring parliamentary buildings, the glazed and Louvre panels were craned to the roof, assembled together and then lowered into position in a matter of weeks.”

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The choice of curtain wall construction for many years has been limited to the traditional ‘stick’ form of construction.

Aluminium mullion and transom profiles prepared in the factory are assembled and fixed onto the building in a grid formation and later glazed on site with, or without, pressure plates. These systems offer an excellent solution for small or large areas of glazed facades.

A relatively simple concept, a unitised facade installation consists of individually glazed, aluminium framed, complete unitised elements being delivered and assembled on site. Each unit is complete and, once in place, seals effectively to its unitised neighbour and offers a complete weathered installation.

The unitised solution often shortens the time required to complete the building envelope and can save weeks on a building programme.

Many of the very large facade companies in the UK and Europe specialise in unitised systems, but due to the nature of fabrication and logistics, will not consider projects under a certain value. These companies often hold the designs to the profiles and initiate weather testing on a ‘per project’ basis. For small to medium sized buildings in the UK we have therefore normally resorted to ‘stick’ curtain wall systems which are relatively easy to produce in a well equipped aluminium fabrication shop. Whilst these systems can be cost effective, they can take time to complete on site, often relying on wet sealing solutions in their construction so program progress can be slow in damp conditions, which is not ideal given the uncertainty of the British weather.

The most competitive stick systems comprise of 50mm mullion and transom sight lines which suit most construction requirement, but care is needed when calculating for allowable thermal and building movement.

Unitised systems are complete facade elements which span from floor to floor and are often in standard module widths that allow for greater movement around their unitised perimeters than that of their stick system counterparts.

“Aluprof were able to produce bespoke extrusions to suit the architectural design and engineered the system to meet the strict performance requirements, whilst also advising on delivery, logistics and erection.“ Tom Wells, Allford Hall Monaghan Morris Architects

In today’s construction market, filling the supply gap between the huge facade contractors and the smaller to medium sized facade contractors are the aluminium ‘systems’ companies. These systems companies supply ‘off the shelf’ profiles complete with hardware solutions to the experienced fabricator and installation contractors. The systems are manufactured to strict guidelines, often laid down in a comprehensive technical manual, and once installed, perform to extensive weathering capabilities. Until a decade or so ago, no systems companies provided such unitised solutions.

Windows, doors and stick curtain wall systems can easily be produced on a typical fabrication line, as the completed products are of reasonable size which can be manually handled and easily delivered.

Unitised construction requires a significant investment in new plant and machinery, as well as experience in manufacture, logistics and installation.

Manufacturing often requires a new production line with mechanical lifting equipment. Unitised systems are factory glazed and elements are typically up to 3.0m in height and 1.2m or more in width which weigh upward of 150kg once glazed. It is this fully glazed fabrication requiremen nt for unitised construction which is not norm mally considered in a typical aluminium fabrrication shop.

Logistics are also much different to norrmal commercial aluminium work. Whilst sttick curtain wall systems, unglazed window ws and doors can easily be packaged and load ded onto a flat bed lorry for transport, unitiised modules are usually placed in racks wh hich are either lifted off in their entirety on site, or when possible, unitised elements caan be lifted off individually and installed dire ect from the delivery vehicle. As unitised eleme ents take up little space and can be installed d quickly, they are ideal for where site acccess is very tight and storage limited.

Where racks of complete elements are loaded to the floor where they are being installed, special plant is used for installation. Th hese m the specialised machines pick up units from rack, take them beyond the floor edge e, turns the unit vertical and places it upon the e fixing brackets, where the unit aligns with the edge seals of adjacent units.

Scaffolding is not required when the glazed facade is constructed of unitised eleme ents.

No applied ‘wet’ sealing is required on installation, so units can be installed in inclement weather, the only issue that does require monitoring is that of high winds.

Being able to install without scaffolding and in damp weather ensures that the building envelope is watertight in the shortest space of time and importantly, to programme.

This leads us onto the third crucial element of unitised facade installation, that of setting out. A unitised element sits on two brackets fixed to the building structure, these brackets need to be set out accurately around the building on all floors prior to any units being delivered on site. Between the units there is a least two structural seals which link units together on all sides allowing for building and thermal movement whilst creating excellent weathertight and good thermal insulation properties.

As unitised systems are manufactured off site in a controlled environment, it is often claimed that such fabrication is conducted to a much higher standard. Due to the more specialist manufacture, logistics and installation, unitised systems are more expensive than traditional stick construction.

Given that scaffolding is not required, the additional ddi i l costs can be b completely l l offset ff but with the added benefit of up to 50% reduction in time to install on site.

As one of Europe’s leading systems companies, Aluprof’s MB-SE75 competitively priced unitised curtain wall system has been extensively tested and used on many European and Worldwide projects. Projects in London are also under installation at this time.

To ensu ure that the complete facade contracct can be achieved with the correct expertise and appropriate efficiency, Aluproff offer UK support for their UK custom mers with start-up production assistan nce of unitised systems, offering both factory based and on site support, from exxperienced unitised engineers.

As one of Europe’s leading systems compan nies, Aluprof’s MB-SE75 compettitively priced unitised curtain wall system has been extensively tested and used on n many European and Worldwide projects. Projects in London are also under installation at this time. Our philoso ophy is one of bespoke design when in consultation with specifiers. Project details and solutions can be developed by our technical department in the UK before the project pro goes to tender to ensure that construction details are both robust and covered by Aluprof’s warranty.

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Our Aluprof UK head office and extensive distribution centre is located in Altrincham, Cheshire. Our systems are increasingly being specified on a wide range of residential and commercial projects across the UK. Systems are designed, fabricated and installed by selected, specially trained companies, to ensure each fabricated product meets the Aluprof exacting standards. Further information is available on our company’s website at www.aluprof.eu and specialist advice is available directly from our UK offices on 0161 941 4005.

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tall order System Kemper System’s Kemperol 2K-PUR solvent-free and odourless waterproofing membrane has been used to refurbish the 1,000m2 penthouse roof area above an oil refinery at a food processing plant in in Erith, London.

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orking closely with Northfall Design Associates, the highly experienced and knowledgeable team at Kemper System helped to devise a successful conservation programme at the ADM Milling penthouse to address water ingress caused by severe deterioration of the 40-metre high roof area.

The oil refinery is housed within the ADM penthouse building and is more than 100 years old. The flat roof area which required refurbishment sits above the oil refinery with steeply pitched mansards, dormers and concrete gutters which also needed repair.

A quick yet durable waterproofing solution was required as the food milling plant was occupied and needed to remain fully functioning throughout the project.

Roofing contractors, Garhigh Southern Ltd, was able to install the Kemperol 2K-PUR system in a single, wet-on-wet process after removing, cleaning and priming the existing concrete substrate.

Concrete repairs were also required on the steep mansards and dormers prior to installation, and on the flat roof area to address disused venting outlets and to obtain optimum thickness of the concrete

“The fact that Kemper System’s waterproofing solution is ecofriendly as well as odourless was an added bonus for the client operating within the food-sector, and work was able to be carried out whilst the building was still occupied and with little disruption.”

Stuart Hicks at Kemper System

substrate prior to installation of the Kemperol 2K-PUR system.

The Kemperol 2K-PUR liquid waterproofing was then applied using a roller, with a reinforcement fleece laid directly into the wet resin, immediately followed by more resin on top to ensure complete saturation of the fleece. The cured solution then forms a seamless, elastomeric waterproof membrane that cannot delaminate and is UV stable – directly addressing the issues of water leaking into the building.

The works also demanded complex detailing around the disused vents, several outlets and plant on the main roof area.

Because of the nature of the building, the food processing mill was still occupied during repair works, which also included a steam release from the oil refinery several times a day. This meant contractors had to work during weekend hours when the mill was closed to avoid any potential health and safety risks, as well as being flexible around the working processes of the plant. Despite this challenge, contractors were able to

install Kemper System’s liquid waterproofing quickly and with ease thanks to its versatile liquid application technique.

Gary Buckman, director at Garhigh Southern Ltd, said: “Kemper System was an ideal choice on this project for many reasons. One main challenge was access to site as not only was the complex roof area 40-metres high, but the client requested for there to be no scaffolding from the ground and up the building. Therefore, we devised a plan to erect hanging scaffolding out of the dormer windows. The ease of application of Kemper System ensured installation ran as smoothly as possible.”

Gary continued: “In addition, because of the exposed location of the building, next to London’s River Thames, operatives were also faced with high winds during installation being completely exposed to the elements, and the steam released from the plant was also a potential health and safety hazard.

The handling and laying of sheet membrane materials would not have been practical and increased the safety risk further for installers and employees. Therefore, Kemper System’s two-component liquid applied system was ideally suited to these conditions.”

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Stuart Hicks at Kemper System added: “This project presented many design and installation challenges, yet the Kemperol 2K-PUR waterproofing solution was able to overcome these easily. The level of variation and detail of the substrates that required refurbishment showcases the versatility of the liquid applied resin, and contractors were able to safely install the system to the extremely steep mansard as well as guttering and detailing around the roof area.

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“The fact that Kemper System’s waterproofing solution is eco-friendly as well as odourless was an added bonus for the client operating within the food-sector, and work was able to be carried out whilst the building was still occupied and with little disruption.”

ADM processes rapeseed into vegetable oil at its London site as well as six other facilities in England and Scotland. Kemper System was also specified to refurbish an 85-metre high food silo at the same site in 2017.

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A DIBSA FLAT TO PITCH ROOF CONVERSION WORKSOP GOLF CLUB example of a Dibsa Flat to Pitch roof conversion installed at Worksop Golf Club.

Our designers were faced with a complex building made up of multiple roofs of differing levels.

The client asked if we could come up with a design that integrated the various roofs and would create an ascetically pleasing contemporary design for the club.

Once the design had been approved by not only the client but also our consultant Structural Engineer, the installer DSM Ltd of Barnsley were appointed by the client.

DSM commenced work with the removal of an existing pitched roof located in the centre, then installing floor beams to allow the Dibsa flat to pitch to be fitted above.

Closely following our detailed drawings the team of installers began the task of fitting the frame onto the building. A Decra strip tile roof laid on top of our frame completed the scheme. www.dibsa.co.uk

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Canadian Vinyl, The Original and Still the Best. Royal Siding is a high quality product, non-toxic and non-flammable. The product is made by extruding polyvinyl chloride homopolymer resin blended with exclusive DURA technology impact modifiers; the result is an extremely tough, long last cladding. It is resistant to changes in outside temperature’s, ranging from -30C to 50C. Due to its unique interlocking design, it can withstand adverse weather conditions and extreme winds. It won’t go brittle, rust nor corrode. The product does not creak and groan wth temperature changes unlike conventional cladding. It comes in a fabulous range of colours, varying from pastel shades to dark, with a wood grain profile. The colour is saturated through the product so it doesn’t fade. It is virtually maintenance free requiring only the occasional wash down to keep it looking good. It provides thermal insulation of up to 30%, not only saving heat and money but due to its design it keeps your walls dry thanks to its unique system of ventilation. The product is fully recyclable and has been confirmed in practice for more than 20 years.

Residentiel Vinyl Cladding Limited www.residentielcladding.com Telephone: 00 44 1767 676100 Fax: 00 44 1767 676105

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Certified to meet/exceed ASTM D3679 standards.

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RESTORING HISTORIC ROOFS WITH HANDMADE CLAY TILES A naturally aged roofscape made from handmade clay roof tiles can be visually stunning. With no two tiles the same, each roof has a character of its own.

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owever, the characterful roofs found on heritage properties inevitably deteriorate over time and eventually need repairing or replacing entirely, so it is important to choose high quality, historically authentic clay plain or peg tiles that will match the architecture of the building and help restore the roof to all of its former beauty.

Furthermore, planning regulations will often insist on the use of like-for-like or, at the very least, visually sympathetic materials and workmanship.

P

eg tiles of the past‌

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Back in the 12th and 13th centuries,

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In order to achieve this match, the company combines age-old, traditional skills and craftsmanship with modern advanced firing techniques. This produces characterful sand-faced tiles with a single or double camber, which not only have an individual and instant-aged, faded rustic look, but also exceed today’s performance standards.

handmade clay peg tiles were a popular feature of historic country houses, barns, farm buildings and churches across the South East of England.

Named after the wooden pegs, which were driven through two square or round holes in the top edge of the tiles attaching them to the laths or battens, their distinctive appearance was characterised by their variation in texture, camber and colour.

In those days, every town and village would have had its own kiln and tile-maker, which relied on hand moulding and simple firing techniques. Depending on the local clay, the firing temperature and the skill of the local or

travelling tile maker, the colours could range from pale orange to a dark red.

By the mid nineteenth century peg tiles had evolved into the ‘plain’ clay tiles with nibs (or projections) on the underside of the top edge for hooking onto the timber battens.

They were also slightly (3/8 - 1/2 inch) longer and wider.

H

istorical authenticity

When restoring a period or listed property, it is important to look for handmade peg and plain tiles with a truly time weathered and ‘olde world’ look consistent with the originals.

Genuine handmade tiles have a character, which is well suited to period properties and cannot be replicated by cheaper and more uniform mass-produced machine made tiles, as these tend to have a dull, flat and more uniform appearance.

Furthermore, as genuine second hand reclaim tiles are often in short supply and can be very expensive to source, new handmade peg and plain tiles can be a perfectly compatible and cost effective alternative particularly when replacing large sections of a roof.

N

on-standard sizes

As planners in conservation areas often insist on ‘like for like’ handmade replacements, it is important to pay attention not only to the tone and texture of the original clay roof tiles, but also to their historic sizing.

Regular 10” x 6” (255mm x 150mm) sizes are very much a modern phenomenon. The reality is that, despite the Royal Charter of 1477 decreeing that peg tiles should be a consistent 10½” x 6¼”, historic plain and peg tiles continued to vary across the country for some time.

When restoring an old roof, it is important to realise that even the slightest change from the original size can damage the overall appearance of a building. For this

For architects, roofers and conservationists, looking for historically sympathetic hand crafted peg and pain tiles, made from fine quality English clay, Tudor offers a practical, historically compatible and increasingly popular solution.

Tudor Roof Tiles takes particular care to produce peg and plain tiles in natural mellow tones, with variable textures and undulating cambers, which replicate the quirky idiosyncratic character of older roofs.

In order to achieve this match, the company combines age-old, traditional skills and craftsmanship with modern advanced firing techniques. This produces characterful sand-faced tiles with a single or double camber, which not only have an individual and instant-aged, faded rustic look, but also exceed today’s performance standards.

Available with square or round peg holes or with nibs on the underside, they are suitable for both ancient and modern building methods as appropriate.

Tudor also offers a range of natural shades from rustic red tones through to deep earth tones, which replicate the appearance of tiles that have naturally darkened with age.

reason Tudor T d offers ff various i b bespoke k nonstandard sizes, which help architects and conservationists replicate and preserve the character of the original roofs.

Located on Romney Marsh in Kent, Tudor Roof Tiles is one of the last remaining independent English manufacturers of traditional handmade clay roof tiles. Over the years, its typically English range of peg and plain tiles has been used in numerous barn and oast conversions, Grade II listed properties, churches and historic town centres as well as on residential homes located in conservation areas.

For architects, roofers and conservationists, looking for historically sympathetic hand crafted peg and pain tiles, made from fine quality English clay, Tudor offers a practical, historically compatible and increasingly popular solution.

Tudor roof tiles are available from leading roofing and builders merchants. For more information, contact Tudor Roof Tile Co. Ltd, Dengemarsh Road, Lydd, Kent, TN29 9JH. Tel: 01797 320202 Fax 01797 320700 E-mail: info@tudorrooftiles.co.uk Website: www.tudorrooftiles.co.uk

RRNews - Issue 31

For guidelines about how Tudor’s range of handmade peg and plain clay tiles can help restore your roof, why not download our information leaflet Restoring Historic Roofs.

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Aggregate Industries’ Roofing Creates Natural Aesthetics For Eco-Friendly Supermarket Aggregate Industries’ Building Products team has helped to complete the ecofriendly Midcounties Co-operative supermarket, in Bourton-on-the-Water, after supplying 1,200m² of its Bradstone Crofters roofing tile.

T

he store, which is situated on Station Road, features renewable energy sources to help power the store including discreet solar panels on the roof to provide 33,000kwh of energy per year. The project’s contractor, Attleys Roofing, called on the Aggregate

Industries team to provide a cost-effective roofing tile for the project, which was also visually appealing, and would complement the other materials being used in the Cotswolds project. The Crofters roofing tile provided the perfect solution.

Aggregate Industries’ roof tiles are moulded from hand-dressed natural stone slates by means of a specifically developed technique which reproduces the fine detail of the originals on the textured face. A range of

“Aggregate Industries was able to successfully meet our specific brief of supplying a roofing solution that would add visual appeal at a reasonable cost.” Tina Attley, Company Secretary at Attleys Roofing

masters is used to avoid noticeable repetition of profiles.

The Crofters roofing consists of main slates, under ridge and eave slates with matching accessories including ridge, hip and ventilation units for the complete roofing solution. Once installed, the authentic colours of the Weathered Buff shade ticked all the aesthetic boxes, delivering a striking and impactful solid colour whilst creating an eye-catching contrast effect with the lighter walling of the building.

Tina Attley, Company Secretary at Attleys Roofing, comments: “Aggregate Industries was able to successfully meet our specific brief of supplying a roofing solution that would add visual appeal at a reasonable cost. The Crofters slate lent itself extremely well to the project, as the dark look of the slate allows the building to stand out with a striking finish, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the store. Plus, the roof slate fits in well with the surrounding area, as many other properties feature the stone look.”

RRNews - Issue 31

Jeremy Lee, Sales Director for Aggregate Industries, adds: “Due to the Cotswold location of the new store, it was important to achieve an authentic visual that would coincide with the surrounding landscape.

However, with natural stone tending to deteriorate with weathering, Crofter’s stone-effect tile provided the ideal solution, offering a cost-effective and long-lasting performance combined with an attractive aesthetic.”

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To find out more about the building materials produced

by Aggregate Industries, call 01285 646900, e-mail building. products@aggregate.com or visit www.aggregate.com.

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Victorian property complete renovation – all thanks to a wine club subscription.

When Melinda Swan bought her husband a subscription to a wine club as a Christmas present, she couldn’t have foreseen that his hobby would play such a big part in a major home refurbishment.

M

elinda, 56, and husband Chris, 60, managing director of a trading company in the city, were looking for a project when they found their Victorian home in Radipole Road, Fulham.

“When we saw this house we knew straight away it was going to be fun and it was going to keep me busy for some time,” says Melinda.

The front door with its beautiful leaded glass instantly gave them hope that they would find a traditional house that hadn’t had too much renovation already. And they did.

Owned by a couple in their 80s the house was still in its original state.

“It hadn’t been touched for years. It was sold as a five-bedroom house but the rooms were small and pokey. The boiler was in the dining room with a table in front of it where they used to sit,” says Melinda.

“The coal bunker was still downstairs and when we took down the curtains a dead mouse fell out. They were elderly and hadn’t had the energy or inclination that we had so it wasn’t their fault and it was a bonus for us.”

Although she had never done anything like this before, Melinda’s first priority was to make the house light and airy.

“I wanted light and more light. The rooms were very dark and I also wanted the house

to flow and that meant taking out doors to open it all up,” she said.

It also meant taking out the first floor to create a stunning, show-stopping galleried dining room which is now bathed in natural light and perfect for entertaining.

There are now four bedrooms and four bathrooms upstairs in the property and a side extension allowed Melinda and Chris to create a beautiful light and airy kitchen.

The beautiful black and white path leading to the front door was installed by a company that specialises in restoring features back to their original state.

“Sammy and his team proved they could work as a team in harmony with an array of experts such as architects, energy and lighting consultants and they were able to deliver a high spec product at every turn.“ Melinda Swan At the time Melinda owned her own company providing lifecycle management for pharmaceutical companies which involved a great deal of world travel and staying in hotels.

And as the work on the property progressed all those years of travelling began to pay off.

“I realised how many ideas I had absorbed and filed away. Hotels are great for picking up trends and ideas. I had lots of creative examples filed away in my brain,” says Melinda.

She says working with SDA brought home to her the importance of choosing the right building firm.

“They ticked all the boxes for us,” she says.

“Sammy and his team proved they could work as a team in harmony with an array of experts such as architects, energy and lighting consultants and they were able to deliver a high spec product at every turn.

They found solutions to problems and alternative ideas when there were issues.”

RRNews - Issue 31

And importantly, Melinda says they came in on budget and finished on time.

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Sammy, 46, who started the business in 2011 says his company prides itself on good results which he says is down to proper consultation with his clients.

He says: “I consider myself a field person. I don’t want to be in the office so I visit my sites every day and have weekly meetings with my clients. That way, there is less room for mistakes and every chance of getting it right.”

Stone & Stonework

SOLUS CERAMICS TRANSFORMS LUXURIOUS SPA INTO 4* RETREAT

and natural variation. The versatile tiles were used on the poolside, in the steam room, changing rooms and vanity areas with a mixture of 1200mmx600mm and 1200mmx200mm large format tiles.

“In addition to the large format pieces, Solus Ceramics also supplied bespoke cut pool edging, corner pieces and step treads. These uniquely fabricated pieces were crafted from the same material as the main tile, which allowed us to completely maximize the potential of the marble tiles. These pieces were vital to the project as they helped us to retain the flowing sense of classical continuity that was so important.”

The Spark range is populated with realistic veins, speckles and tonal variations, exposing a charming rustic and natural aesthetic that suits a variety of project types from residential spaces and spas through to leisure suites and commercial environments Taking inspiration from the most attractive and palatial features of natural marble, the new Spark range is created in hard-wearing porcelain stoneware offering a worthy alternative to genuine stone. Boasting fantastic technical qualities, from durability, stain resistance and thermal endurance.

Leading tile supplier, Solus Ceramics has revitalised a 39 Bedroom boutique hotel with the use of its bespoke tiling throughout its spa refurbishment.

The most recent development has seen the remodelling and refurbishment of the existing pool area into a classically chic and modern luxury spa, where Solus Ceramics’ Spark tile range takes center stage.

Helen Hughes, Creative Director at Helen Hughes

“The main aim of the design was to create an elegant, functional space with a distinctively classic yet modern ambience that is also easy to maintain. Therefore we decided to use a singular tile range thought the entire project echoing the classic aesthetics of traditional Roman spas.

“This project took inspiration from the stonework at the Victoria & Albert Museum that features monolithic marble slabs, which led to the tile selection of the Spark range, chosen for its beautiful and faithful marble effect boasting dynamic and realistic veining

Since the opening of the spa, the hotel has jumped from a 3* to a 4* rated property and the feedback from both the client and the guests has been overwhelmingly positive.

Michael Irvine, Area Sales Manager at Solus Ceramics, said: “Merchants Manor has been a fantastic project to work on with Helen Hughes Design Studio, and has delivered fantastic results.

“One of our favourite aspects of this classically chic design was the way in which the two large format tiles were used. The Spark range provides a tactile anti-slip finish, which is ideal when a project requires something more refined than a typically austere anti-slip finish.”

For more information, call Solus Ceramics on 0121 753 0777, email sales@solusceramics.com or visit www.solusceramics.com

RRNews - Issue 31

Situated on the majestic Falmouth coast, Merchants Manor Hotel has undergone a three-year refurbishment plan, solely mastered by commercial interior architecture and design practice, Helen Hughes Design Studio.

Design Studio, said: “A key requirement of the client’s brief was to create a refined and luxurious space which meant a full strip out and redesign of both the pool and changing areas.

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Boundary wall of Grade I listed Basildon Park country house, restored with the help of EcoRight Corn Coarse Stuff Basildon Park is a Grade I listed country r house, owned by the National Tr T ust and situated just outside Gorin i g-on-T - hames near Re R adin i g in i Berkshire. Built in i the 18th Century ry, it will be fa f miliar to viewers of the television series Downtown Ab A bey. y It was extensiv i ely l refu f rb r ished by Lord and Lady d IIififfe in i the 1950s and was k own fo kn f r hostin i g numerous glamorous parties. In 1978 it was passed to The National Tr T ust and is now a f vourite destin fa i ation fo f r tourists and locals alike.

RRNews - Issue 31

The stunning house is set in over 400 acres of mani n cured gardens and beautififul parkl k and. Surroundin ing it all is the boundary r wall that is the subject of restoration work by AF Jones Stonemasons, a specialist local building conservation contractor.r They chose to use EcoRi R ght Corn Coarse Stuff f that is bein i g supplied R adin i g.

by Old House Store in i Caversham, Re

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The Corn Coarse Stuff f was recently l developed by EcoRi R ght to meet the demand fo f r a lim i e putty t mortar

that is sympathetic to the distinctive yellow oolitic lim i estone fo f und in i and around the Cotswolds. It uses the same Leighton Buzzard sand as the EcoRi R ght Natural Coarse Stuff f with the addition of natural pigments. It is made using the hot mixing technique utilised by EcoRi R ght that replicates the traditional method used by stonemasons fo f r centuries. Whereas in the past, stonemasons would mix “lump m � lim i e with sand and then add water,r modern powdered quicklim i e allows fo f r greater eff fficiency c in i hot mixin i g. This means fa f r more regularity t in the mortar composition and hence perfo f rmance.

Given the longevity t of historical lime mortars, their modern equiv i alents will be at the very r least just as good.

EcoRi R ght is at the fo f refr f ont of industrial hot mixing of lim i e putty t based mortars. Up to fo f ur years ago, lim i e was slaked fo f r a minimum of three months befo f re being mixed. However,r extensiv i e research and experimentation revealed the authenticity t and eff ffectiveness of Main picture and inset, Basildon Pa P rk

Conservation & Heritage Journal

hot mixing and it has been the standard practice at EcoRi Right sin i ce 2013. Li Likewise, the demand fo f r bespoke k lim i e mortars has in i creased as more and more is used in i both builidin i g conserv r ation and new builid projects. Thi hs h draulic has led to the development of a wide range of hy and non-hy h draulic lime mortar colours with diff fferent textures.

For new build projects involving lime, hy h draulic lime mortar is ty t pically l used, and supplied with an up to 3mm aggregate. Contractors used to working with sand and cement fi f nd this easier to adapt to and, aesthetically ly, architects prefe f r this texture to enhance the appearance of brickwork. Using hy h draulic lime f equency and or need fo f r mortar a also reduces the fr movement joints as well providing environmental benefi f ts.

For building conservation work both hy h draulic and non-hy h draulic mortars, plasters and renders are used.

In the case of mortars, an up to 5mm aggregate is typically ty l used to giv i e a “grittier� texture. Thi h s is the case with the Basildon Park project and, as is oft f en the case, special care was take k n to match both colour and texture to the origin i al mortar.r Recently l there has been extensive discussion and research into the use, perfo f rmance and historical application of lime mortars within building conservation. It is fa f ir to say a that natural hy h draulic lim i e (NHL)

was viewed as a panacea a fe f w years ago however the research conducted by Historic England has called in i to doubt the comp m ressiv i e strengths and suitab a ility t of some NHL in i conservation work. Furthermore, the excellent work done by Nigel Copsey, y who has studied historical texts fr f om Ro R man and Middle Ages scholars and married it with his own experiences as a stone mason, ing has led to a comp m lete re-evaluati tion of o our understandin of th t e practices and techn hniques used to builid our historic structures. It is clear that stone masons of these eras had a deep understanding of lime mortars. They may a not have had the knowledge of the underly l ing chemistry r that we enj n oy today a however they had estab a lished tried and tested methods of achieving the correct mortar perfo f rmance. The wide range of historic structures that i g today a is testament to their skills. are standin Whether fo f r new build or buildin i g conservation, lim i e mortars, plasters and renders off ffer a range of benefi f ts to architects, contractors, the env n ir i onm n ent and the fu f ture preservation of the country r ’s historic structures. As the use of lim i e based buildin i g materials contin i ues to grow, w so will the range of availab a le options. The three guidin i g principles will always be to ensure that the chosen product meets the demands of perfo f rmance, is aesthetically l correct and, where appropriate, hi h storically l sympathetic. www. w EcoRi R ght.co.uk

RRNews - Issue 31

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RRNews - Issue 31

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100

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RRNews - Issue 31

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101

A safety tower above the rest As access towers continue to become more advanced, Sophie Ellam, product manager for BoSS discusses why suitability for the working environment and flexibility are important aspects to consider for those working at heights.

N

o matter where you are working, choosing the correct equipment is paramount in ensuring maximum safety. As well as any constraints of the location, it is important to consider such things as load capacity, including the weight of the tools and materials being used to carry out the job, and the time spent working at height.

BoSS Zone 1

Overcoming obstacles When working on site, it’s likely that the location may have obstacles that need to be overcome to complete the job. By opting for a tower that offers ‘special’ configurations, users can create complex tower builds - ideal for awkward or hard to reach jobs using standard BoSS components.

Designed with this in mind, WernerCo’s BoSS branded Cantilever and Linked towers have been designed to help professionals overcome any obstacles. The BoSS Cantilever enables the user to work over an obstruction when it is not possible to support the other side of the tower, while the Linked bridge style tower provides a continuous large working area with a heavy duty platform.

Limited maneuverability For tighter spaces, it’s crucial when selecting a tower to consider the footprint and whether it can be adapted for any troublesome locations. Both the StairMAX and Liftshaft from the BoSS 700 range are lightweight and designed to fit through standard doorways and in stairwells. The StairMAX can be adapted to create a safe working environment when working on stairways, while the Liftshaft is perfect for confined spaces.

BoSS StairMAX Lighter loads When working solo or as part of a small team, it’s essential that the tower you’re using is easily manageable in order to make the most of time on site and reduce the risks of manual handling. The BoSS Solo 700 has been created for one-person operation, and thanks to its intuitive design can be assembled quickly and safely, and is easy to transport thanks to the convenient base which acts as a trolley for all components and fits through standards doorways.

WernerCo’s range of BoSS towers are designed to be as efficient as possible, while still providing users with flexibility and safety at all times.

Meanwhile, for locations where electrical work is also being carried out, the durable BoSS Zone:1 fibreglass industrial tower system offers not only the ability to work at heights, but is non-conductive to ensure complete safety from electric shocks.

Fit for purpose For applications where it is expected that users will frequently climb and descend, a product with its own staircase is preferable to vertical ladder access. The BoSS Staircase tower is designed with just this, and features stairway guardrails for safe and comfortable access.

RRNews - Issue 31

Alternatively, for work indoors, the Room-Mate is an ideal access solution for interior decorating and maintenance and thanks to a folding base frame, is easy to transport, store and erect.

102

WernerCo’s range of BoSS towers are designed to be as efficient as possible, while still providing users with flexibility and safety at all times. By allowing professionals to make modifications and tailor a tower to meet the specific criteria of a job, it means more complex structures can be achieved as and when required whilst still complying to EN1004 & BS1139-6.

BoSS Cantilever Tower

To find out more information on WernerCo’s range of tower solutions, visit www.wernerco.com

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SNICKERS WILL STRETCH YOUR VISIBILITY A Superior Range of Hi Vis Working Clothes – for all kinds of light conditions.

Snickers Workwear takes personal protection very seriously. That’s why this new range of cool and functional Hi-Vis summer clothing is streets ahead of anything else.

With an extensive range of Jackets, Trousers, Shorts, Toolvests, Shirts and Fleeces from Snickers’ LITEWork, FLEXIWork and ALLROUNDWORK families, there’s a host of different garments in the range to satisfy the specific requirements of Classes 1, 2 and 3 protection levels.

These ‘outstanding’ products combine Snickers’ unrivalled hallmarks of functionality and comfort with the requirements of the EN471 standard for high visibility warning clothes.

With advanced designs and high-tech fabrics, all the garments haver durable, colour-fast protection that will last for wash after wash, retaining shape and comfort throughout the life of the garments. Added to which, all Snickers Hi Vis garments can be custom-profiled to ensure ‘stand out’ coverage for your corporate brand.

Getting more information on the Snickers Workwear range of Hi Vis Workwear is easy. You call the Helpline on 01484 854788; check out www. snickersworkwear.co.uk and download a digital catalogue; or you can email info@snickersworkwear.co.uk

START WITH SCREWFIX THIS SPRING! This Spring, whatever the weather and whatever your project, start with Screwfix.

The latest edition of the renowned catalogue has over 950 pages and is jam packed with an extensive product range, covering all bases from landscaping and outdoor, to exterior lighting and plumbing – there’s also plenty for indoor projects too!

So whenever you’re working outside this Spring, you will find Screwfix have got all the tools for the job, plus loads of products you might not expect, from Lawn mowers to Decking.

Caroline Welsh, Brand and Retail Marketing Director at Screwfix, comments: “With every new catalogue, we bring tradespeople the top products available from the biggest brands in the Industry, at fantastic prices. Our latest edition has everything tradespeople or DIY enthusiasts need for outdoor and indoor projects, helping them to get the job done.

Solid Gear continues to modernize safety footwear with the revolutionary ‘Infinity’ technology in this new shoe.

Combining a lightweight athletic look with maximum breathability and superb safety features, the new VENT safety shoe is ideal for workers who are constantly on the move.

‘’With over 570 stores nationwide and even more set to open in 2018, tradespeople are never too far from your nearest Screwfix store. It doesn’t matter whether you are on site or at home, our Click & Collect service enables our busy tradespeople to order their selected products online or by phone and pick them up in as little as one minute from their nearest store, meaning no more waiting around for their delivery’’.

MOUNTFIELD HP185 45CM 125CC HANDPROPELLED ROTARY PETROL LAWN MOWER

VENT’s upper is made from lightweight mesh combined with Cordura and a TPU reinforcement to ensure cool comfort, maximum breathability and enhanced durability.

RRNews - Issue 31

While the shoe’s two midsoles deliver stability, flexibility and optimal energy return for enhanced comfort on your feet, the rubber outsole provides a high level of anti-slip protection.

For added protection, the shoe’s NANO toe cap is 40% stronger than fiberglass and has a more athletic look that conventional metallic ones. What’s more, the BOA fastening system provides flexibility and high precision adjustment of the shoe.

So get to know more about the quality and innovation plus the top class safety functionality in every Solid Gear product – your feet will notice the difference.

To get more information on Solid Gear - the Next Generation of Safety Footwear - visit the website at www.solidgearfootwear.com alternatively, call the Helpline on 01484 854788.

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For more information on Screwfix’s new range of products, visit www.screwfix.com or pick i k up a copy off th the new catalogue t l att a local Screwfix store.

At just £199.99, this lightweight yet robust hand-propelled lawn mower has five different cutting heights and comes with a free mulching plug. Taking pride of place on the front cover the new catalogue, the Mountfield lawn mower features the 125cc 4-Stroke Briggs & Stratton E Series Engine. It collects up to 55 litres of grass, making it convenient and easy to use – get through your mowing in no time!

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Bradfords Building Supplies acquires landmark landscaping and timber supplies Bradfords Building Supplies continues to grow following the addition of South Devon-based Landmark Landscaping and Timber Supplies.

D

avid Young, MD of Bradfords Building Supplies said: “This is another great acquisition. It sits perfectly with our expansion plans built on trust and the supply of the best products, biggest range and finest customer service to local trades.

“The deal is great news for both Bradfords and our customers as we continue to expand our presence in the South West. It marks another significant development in our growth ambitions.”

Landmark becomes the 41st Bradfords Building Supplies branch.

With nine employees, Landmark is a highly respected business operating in Paignton, South Devon, and is ideally located to serve

the towns of Brixham, Paignton and Torquay.

Karl Avery and Steven Dunn, the former owners of Landmark, will remain with the business.

In a joint statement they said: “Bradfords is the best company to help drive our business forward. Not only can we continue to give our customers great service, we can now offer them improved ranges to help them do more.”

Landmark has been trading since 2013 and is renowned for providing excellent customer service. The company specialises in the supply of a wide range of timber, landscaping and building products.

They offer huge experience in landscaping

and fencing and once fully integrated will add to Bradfords’ expertise.

Existing Landmark customers will benefit from a greater product range and will be able to buy from Bradfords Building Supplies, YPS Plumbing and Heating, Kitchens & Bathrooms and Toolhire all through a single account.

They will also benefit from the hugely popular Bradfords Rewards scheme.

With nine employees, Landmark is a highly respected business operating in Paignton, South Devon, and is ideally located to serve the towns of Brixham, Paignton and Torquay.

Connolly diversification marked with major rebrand Wigan-based community housing specialist announces new visual identity as commercial activity grows.

RRNews - Issue 31

Simon Harrison, MD Connolly

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C

onstruction and community housing specialist Connolly has announced the launch of its new visual identity as the £20m turnover business looks to communicate a growing portfolio of services.

Having built a reputation over 35 years as a family contractor specialising in social housing developments across the North West, the Wigan-based business has seen its core services expand in recent years with a growing number of projects in the commercial sector.

The new brand image has been designed to reflect Connolly’s increasing diversification as the business continues to focus on making a positive difference in the community.

Managing Director Simon Harrison explained: “As a family business, our focus has always been to add social value to the communities we work with, whether that’s through the people we employ or the projects we work on.

We’re extremely proud of the reputation we’ve developed for socially conscious construction and planned refurbishment, and that drive

remains at the core of what we do.

“As Connolly has developed and grown in recent years, we’ve recognised a need to bring our brand image in line with that focus. The intention is that this new visual identity will communicate the quality and professionalism of the team, whilst not losing sight of our responsibility to the partners and residents who have come to rely on us.”

Alongside an increase in commercial refurbishment and fit-out projects, Connolly has also seen its reach spread from the North West into Yorkshire and North Wales, where it continues to develop its social housing proposition with local partners.

Simon continued: “Connolly is built on a foundation of providing quality pathways for its employees to develop, employing local people, engaging with local businesses and delivering a human touch to the communities we operate in. As we expand the areas and business streams we offer, our intention is very much to continue operating as a family business that invests in its people to facilitate growth.”

With over a decade’s experience in planned maintenance and refurbishment for the social housing sector, the firm continues to work with a raft of local authorities, social housing providers and specialist care developments across the region.

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