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AUTUMN 2022 www.timbermedia.co.uk ISSN 2517–26X (PRINT)
COMBILIFT 18 Going greener with electric powered vehicles TERRY HOWELL 20
DATA DRIVEN FORESTRY 28
The independent timber and builders’ merchant on streamlining trading and business processes
Digitising the world’s forests to understand trees better and fight climate change
Don’t let your existing business management software stunt your growth Discover the power of an ERP and how it supersedes SAGE, Xero and Quickbooks in our on-demand webinar. Scan the QR Code to watch now
R E A DY. S E T. G R O W | E C I S O L U T I O N S .C O M / U K
TIMBER TRADER UK ISSUE 18 CONTENTS
02
12
16
02 News
18
20
The latest news and views from across the industry.
12 2022: a challenging year The timber industry has experienced a tricky 2022 with supply chain issues likely to continue to the end of the year. Timber Development UK CEO, David Hopkins explains more.
16 Part L and Going for Greener Getting to grips with the updated Part L of the Building Regulations should be at the forefront of anyone wishing to achieve net zero targets and improve building performance.
24
28
18 Cover Story: Combilift As materials handling manufacturer Combilift points out – switching to electric power is not only good for the environment, but also good for your workforce, neighbours and your balance sheet.
20 Local Landmarks
32
We caught up with Luke Brown, head of retail & development at T G Howell & Sons, to find out more about how a small independent merchant is helping keep its customers satisfied.
24 Trade & Talk Timber As UKCW Birmingham returns to the NEC from 4th to 6th October 2022, Timber Expo will play a main part of the show as the UK’s only dedicated timber exhibition.
28 Data & the Three Pillars of Sustainable Forestry According to Rolf Schmitz, co-founder and co-CEO of CollectiveCrunch, digitising the world’s forests is essential to understanding and fighting climate change.
Managing Editor: Terry Hanlon
Registered address:
terry.hanlon@timbermedia.co.uk
9 Viaduct Street, Newton-le-Willows,
01925 872371
Merseyside WA12 9PL
Artwork: Pete Awad artwork@timbermedia.co.uk
32 Reduce Your Plastic Waste With concerns surrounding plastic packaging in the construction supply chain, both TDUK and the National Buying Group have offered guidance and support.
Follow Timber Media:
Company registered in England and
@Timber_Media
Wales. Company Number 10839173.
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TIMBER TRADER UK NEWS
Timber sector continues trade body consolidation A new Affiliation Agreement between Timber Development UK
TDUK CEO, Dave Hopkins commented: “This affiliation agreement
(TDUK) and the Wood Protection Association (WPA) has set the
formalises what is already a very good working relationship. WPA
template for further consolidation of the timber industry, helping
provides TDUK with the opportunity to access unrivalled specialist
to drive the mass adoption of timber as a sustainable construction
experience, information, data, technical expertise and team resources
solution.
from another vital part of the timber supply chain. It is another clear
TDUK has been formed from a merger between the Timber
example of TDUK’s mission to create the most comprehensive supply
Trade Federation (TFF) and The Timber Research and Development
chain body in the UK, so we can act as an agent of change toward
Association (TRADA), creating the largest, most comprehensive supply
more sustainable, low-carbon forms of construction. WPA and TDUK’s
chain body in the UK. TDUK now spans more than 1500 member
missions are already closely aligned. So, it makes perfect sense to work
businesses representing everything from sawmill to specifier. The
together to achieve greater impact as timber takes centre stage for the
WPA is the UK authority on wood protection and plays a lead role in
race to net-zero construction.”
influencing, developing and promoting technologies that enhance the
WPA chief executive Gordon Ewbank added: “Wood treatments
performance and value of wood as a building material.
are an integral part of the timber supply chain, so it makes good
Under the Affiliation Agreement, TDUK and WPA will continue
commercial and technical sense for WPA and TDUK to share our
to operate as independent membership organisations, but WPA will
respective capabilities and speak with one voice on treatment related
act as the TDUK’s centre of expertise on flame-retardant treatments,
matters. Our agreement to become a TDUK affiliated trade association
wood modification and preservation – providing the essential technical,
is a further step in what has been a growing and fruitful partnership
quality assurance and support services under a united strategy to grow
in recent years, providing mutual benefits to both associations, our
demand for added value treated timber products that can be trusted.
customers and, most importantly, our members.”
The TDUK Affiliation Agreement with WPA is part of a bigger mission to align all wood and timber technical specification information
TDUK will be officially launched later in the year and will have a
under one roof. In so doing, TDUK aims to empower architects,
strong presence at UK Construction Week at the Birmingham NEC
designers, specifiers and engineers with the knowledge and confidence
in October.
they need to use wood in their projects.
More at www.ttf.co.uk www.thewpa.org.uk
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TIMBER TRADER UK NEWS
EGGER boosts recycled content through investment Wood-based material manufacturer, EGGER UK Limited, has invested
conscious products. We are a major supplier to these industries, so
over £15 million into recycling operations at its site in Hexham. The
it’s important that we lead the way when it comes to sustainable
investment reinforces the company’s commitment to make ‘More
product innovation. Not only does this investment strengthen our
From Wood’, by improving the quality of recycled wood used to
closed loop production cycle, but it also demonstrates the importance
make EGGER’s chipboard panels.
and commitment the company places on a sustainable supply of raw
Employing the latest technology, the new recycling plant will
materials.”
segregate, clean, and chip waste wood that would otherwise be burnt
Plans for the project started in 2019, with breaking ground
or sent to landfill. Recycled material maintains the carbon stored in the
taking place in October 2020. Led by Andrew Shepherd with EGGER’s
wood and benefits the environment.
dedicated UK project team, installation was supported by the wider
Thanks to the new, state-of-the-art processing facilities and the
EGGER Group, Cubby Construction, Mibex Ltd, Garwen Enterprises,
high-quality recycled material processed, EGGER can increase the
and Parkgate. The team has collectively spent over 130,000 hours on
amount of recycled wood in each chipboard panel it produces. By
this project and navigated many external challenges during the build,
improving its recycling processes to get a better-quality raw material,
including COVID-19, skill shortages, and material availability. After
EGGER can guarantee that the quality of the panel is not compromised.
commencing commissioning in August, chipboard production with
Alex West, product manager at EGGER UK, said: “Increasing our
increased recycled content is underway.
recycled content answers the demand from the interior design, More at egger.com
furniture, and housebuilding industries for more environmentally
Handheld printers for all your timber marking needs
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TIMBER TRADER UK NEWS
TIMCO makes finals of Lloyds Bank British Business Excellence Awards Leading supplier of products for the construction and industrial sectors, TIMCO has been announced as a finalist in the Mid-Market Business category of The Lloyds Bank British Business Excellence Award for the first time. The Lloyds Bank British Business Excellence Award is the elite business awards programme for businesses of all shapes and sizes. Hundreds of companies were entered in the prestigious national awards, hoping to be recognised for their hard work, innovation and success. TIMCO is a one-stop-shop for over 4,500 independent merchants across the UK and Ireland, supplying more than 8,000 essential products that trade professionals rely on every day, such as screws, fasteners and fixings, nails, adhesives and chemicals, powertool accessories, hand tools, building hardware and ironmongery and PPE. Simon Midwood, managing director of TIMCO commented: “Making the finals of the British Business of the Year Award is a huge pat on the back for all our staff,
The awards host a year-long programme of networking events,
who provide an exceptional service to our customers every day. I’d also
roundtables and judging processes, all of which will culminate in a
like to thank our customers for their continued support in our landmark
spectacular awards ceremony to reveal the winners, on 8 November
50th anniversary. We’re looking ahead to the next 50 years and continuing
2022 at the Grosvenor House Hotel, London.
our strategy of providing the essential products the trade rely on, while More at www.timco.co.uk
providing an excellent service.”
New network for women in woodworking An online network has been launched
in 2018 and has connected over 300
to allow women working in the
female members who use the network
woodworking trades – carpentry,
to discuss topics such as workwear,
joinery, cabinet making – to connect
technical problems and tips, and to share
and support each other. The network is
work opportunities.
called Women in Woodwork and it has
Fiona Sharp, social value director at
been established by the Women and
Procure Plus which runs the Women and
Manual Trades (WaMT) programme,
Manual Trades programme, says: “The
which is part of not-for-profit company
Women in Woodworking Group has been
Procure Plus, in partnership with the Institute of Carpenters. Women
set up to allow women working in these trades to be connected and
who are working or training in woodworking trades are eligible to
to come together. Peer support is so important to women, especially
join the network, which takes the form of a private Facebook Group.
those who are training or just starting out, and can have a huge impact
The organisations involved in setting up Women in Woodwork
on whether or not they decide to continue on their career path.
recognise that women are hugely under-represented in these trades,
Better retention of women in construction and the building trades is
and indeed all the building trades, and believe that a dedicated forum
something we want to address. We invite carpentry, joinery and other
for women to ‘meet’ will alleviate the isolation that women can
woodworking contractors to promote the network to their female
experience, and which can prevent women from having a sustainable
employees.”
career. Women in Woodwork follows the success of the Open Circuit Group
Women are invited to join Women in Woodwork at
for women in electrics, which was also set up by the WaMT programme
www.facebook.com/groups/womeninwoodwork
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TIMBER TRADER UK NEWS
Covers adds to its green ambitions Covers Timber & Builders Merchants has added three brand new electric forklift trucks at its Chichester depot, further supporting the company’s ambitions of reducing its carbon footprint and reaching net-zero for carbon emissions. The builders’ merchant is committed to increasing its fleet of electric machinery and road vehicles. The new electric forklifts at Chichester are in addition to the seven already being used at the depot. In 2022, Covers has replaced eight of its diesel fork trucks with electric machines, and 11 more are due to enter service across the group in 2023. Covers has also been working to reduce the carbon footprint of its road-going fleet by replacing traditional fuelled cars with alternative fuel, fully electric and hybrid vehicles. In the last year, 18 fully electric cars and 16 hybrid vehicles have been added to the fleet, and Covers is committed to replacing the remaining conventional cars in the next few years. Adam Conrad, group transport manager at Covers commented: “We are dedicated to minimising our impact on the environment and are constantly re-evaluating all aspects of our business. There have been significant improvements in technology for both plant machinery and road-going vehicles. By taking advantage of these modern electric
zero goal. These include, installing solar panels to the roofs of the
vehicles, we can cut the emissions released from our depots and reduce
majority of its depots, utilising ultra-low consumption LED lighting,
our overall carbon footprint. Continually investing in new electric vehicles
sourcing timber that is certified by FSC and increasing the amount of
and forklift trucks across the fleet is one way we are doing this.”
waste that is reused and recycled (currently this is at 80%).
These new electric vehicles and bulk bags are part of a range of More at www.coversmerchants.co.uk
sustainable initiatives Covers has implemented to help it reach its net
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TIMBER TRADER UK NEWS
Beesley & Fildes invests £1.2 million in timber mill upgrade Beesley & Fildes, the family-owned independent builder’s merchant,
boarding. Requiring just a single operator, the new re-saw provides
has invested £1.2 million in its timber milling facility in Widnes in
Beesley & Fildes with industry-leading re-saw technology, increased
response to increase demand for both timber stock items across the
capacity and broader in-house processing capabilities to boost supply
company’s branch network, and bespoke orders.
chain reliability for customers.
The timber mill, acquired by Beesley & Fildes in 2004, produces the
Investment has been co-ordinated with an upgrade to the mill’s
skirting, architraves, flooring, planed timber, door casings and certified
extraction system and tool room, ensuring the facility provides a
fire door casing kits sold across the company’s 11-branch network
safe, comfortable and digital-enabled work environment that will
and online. It also fulfils bespoke orders from both the branches and
futureproof timber milling capabilities. The upgrade means the
customers, including matching legacy timber features and providing
experienced timber engineering and processing team will be able to
like-for-like timber details for heritage projects.
load CAD drawings straight to the new machines and all machines will
The £1.2 million investment programme is designed to increase
operate on an integrated digital system that will ensure high levels of
efficiency and throughput, enabling them to offer reliable and
accuracy, real-time management information and prioritised workflows.
cost-effective supply with full accountability, traceability and quality
James Beesley, commercial director at Beesley & Fildes adds: “The
assurance.
timber mill at our Widnes branch is an important part of our offer, both
The investment includes two new Weinig planing and profiling
in enabling us to stock all our branches and in our ability to produce
lines, which will replace the mill’s existing planing equipment, enabling
bespoke items for customers – if it can be made from timber, we
increased throughput, fast set-up and a consistently excellent finish
can make it. This investment programme is all about enhancing our
at the timber mill. The market-leading Weinig P3000 and P1500
capabilities to prepare for continuing growth and ensure we deliver
machines can be pre-programmed and will store settings for repeat
consistently efficient and accurate timber processing. In addition to the
jobs, enhancing efficiency and enabling faster operation with a single
new equipment, we are also recruiting a timber machinist apprentice,
operative for each machine.
investing in the future of our business and our community with an
Also included in the new investment programme is a new, British-
opportunity for a young person to develop skills in the sector.”
made, fully-automated Stenner re-saw that will convert timber for More at www.beesleyandfildes.co.uk
the production of skirting boards, fence panels and feather-edged Timber Trader UK Magazine
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TIMBER TRADER UK NEWS
New appointments at Donaldson Group Leading timber expert, Donaldson Group, has appointed Graham Johnston as CEO of its retail and distribution division in a newly created role. Graham joins the Donaldson Group from ASDA where he was senior director of omnichannel customer support, running a large UK and international operation alongside delivering a technology and cultural transformation programme to provide an innovative customer experience for millions of customers, across multiple channels. Following a period of growth and expansion, Graham’s new role forms part of a new structure for the Group and the creation of three new divisions: offsite, interiors, and retail and distribution. Graham will be responsible for leading the retail and distribution division of the business, including timber merchant MGM Timber; distributor of
Graham Johnston
insulation and drylining products, James Donaldson Insulation; Nu-Style Products, which manufactures Perform Panel, a high-performance wet wall panel and Plane & Simple, an online DIY marketplace.
The Donaldson Group also recently appointed Steve Galbraith
Commenting on the appointment, Andrew Donaldson, CEO of
as managing director of two of its merchant retail and distribution
Donaldson Group, said: “Retail behaviours have been evolving across
subsidiary businesses, in addition to his existing position as managing
all industries, with a move toward online purchasing being expedited
director of Nu-Style Products. In his new role, Steve will take on the
by the COVID-19 pandemic. As our Group portfolio continues to grow,
management of Scotland’s leading independent timber merchant,
we aim to ensure that our offering grows with our business and with
MGM Timber and insulation material and specialist building product
our customers. Graham’s excellent experience optimising multiple
supplier, James Donaldson Insulation.
customer channels for globally-recognised brands is an enormous asset
Steve said: “This is a fantastic opportunity and I’m proud to
to the Donaldson Group, and we are looking forward to his expertise
be taking on this new role within Donaldson Group. I’m extremely
and insight as we develop our own retail and distribution channels.”
fortunate to be inheriting such a strong, experienced, market-leading
Graham added: “Bringing together the physical and digital retail
team, and I’m looking forward to working with them to grow the
businesses is a refreshing and forward-thinking move by the Donaldson
businesses in line with the Donaldson Group strategy. Core to this will
Group, and I’m delighted to be joining this newly formed division as CEO.
be ensuring the teams have even better tools and skills with which to
Joining a business that has such a rich history of innovation and growth over
do their jobs – adding value for our staff, which will result in even better
the past 162 years is a real honour and I’m looking forward to working with
service and added value for our customers.”
our talented teams across the group to carry on that spirit of innovation and More at www.donaldson-group.co.uk
shape the next chapter for the retail and distribution business.”
Rhino Wood comes to the UK market International Timber, a leading importer and
low-maintenance timber which can rival the
distributor of bespoke, sustainable timber
durability of traditional hardwood. Their
and panel products, has announced stocks
manufacturing process uses waste products
of a new FSC-certified range of modified
as an energy source – using clean energy over
timber.
fossil fuels. In recognition of their contribution
Rhino Wood, of which International Timber is the sole UK distributor, is
to curbing deforestation, they received the WWF Climate Solver Award in 2014.
manufactured from sustainable, plantation-
Kerry Wardle, marketing manager at
grown pine. It undergoes a process of thermal
International Timber said: “We are delighted
modification which brings the moisture
to be stocking Rhino Wood, with stocks due
treatment increases the strength of the pine
content down to below 5% and turns the pine
to arrive early in September. This timber is
timber by up to 60% without decreasing its
from a yellow colour to a more aesthetically
a game changer for the UK market which is
bending ability or elasticity, resulting in a
appealing walnut brown which will naturally
struggling with global supply chain issues.
class 1 durability rating – making it ideal for
weather to a beautiful silver-grey.
Not only is Rhino Wood an environmentally
endless applications such as cladding, decking,
responsible choice thanks to its sustainable
pergolas, gates and laminated beams.”
It is then pressure impregnated with a non-toxic compound which solidifies within
sourcing, but it delivers when it comes
the cells of the timber, creating a long-lasting
to performance too. The impregnation
Timber Trader UK Magazine
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The new name for CaberWood MDF Our pioneering MDF is engineered to give the quality results professional users require, making it the range of choice for trade and building professionals as well as architects and specifiers.
View the entire range at:
CaberMDF.com
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TIMBER TRADER UK NEWS
The test laboratory as it was in 1972
Warringtonfire marks 50 years of ‘making tomorrow safer than today’ Warringtonfire is marking the 50th anniversary of its first
customers develop are safe, compliant and fit for purpose. It never
commercial fire test, which took place at a newly completed fire
ceases to amaze me that many of the products that we all walk past
testing laboratory in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, in the
every day, in offices, airports, schools or hospitals, will have been
summer of 1972. 50 years later, what is believed to be the UK’s
developed and tested at our facility at High Wycombe and we’re
oldest existing fire resistance testing laboratory, continues to
extremely proud of our work.
operate. Today, it is one of Warringtonfire’s main sites and is a
“However, we’re not resting on our laurels and with the significant
centre of excellence for the testing of timber fire doors.
changes we’re seeing in the built environment landscape today, we
In addition to being an early pioneer in fire testing, Warringtonfire
know there’s much to do if we are to continue to deliver on our purpose
has remained at the forefront of the industry. Through its collaboration
of making tomorrow safer than today. Our focus for the future is to
with trade associations and standards committees, Warringtonfire’s
continue working with key trade associations and standards committees
team of highly respected technical experts continue to play a pivotal
using the deep technical expertise we possess, particularly of those
role in raising standards in the fire protection industry. Recognising how
colleagues in our Scope and Governance team, to constantly raise
much customers rely on specialist technical knowledge to support them
industry standards.”
through the testing process, Warringtonfire has continued to invest heavily in building a world class team of technical experts and has one
To give back to the industry that it has been a part of for the last
of the largest global teams in the industry.
50 years, Peter Barker – technical manager at Warringtonfire will be hosting a free two-hour ‘Introduction to Fire Doors’ webinar on
Mark Cummings, technical director at Warringtonfire, said: “Since 1972, we’ve conducted tens of thousands of fire tests at our High
Wednesday 12 October.
Wycombe laboratory, all designed to ensure that the products our
More at www.warringtonfire.com
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FEATURE SUPPLY & WAREHOUSING
2022: a challenging year The timber industry experienced an interesting start to 2022 following the invasion of Ukraine and supply chain issues will continue as Timber Development UK’s latest market statement shows. CEO David Hopkins explains more.
T
Hardwoods
The supply of raw materials has become more challenging, while the rising price of energy and its
Import volumes increased by 29.9% in Q1 2022 compared to Q1
resulting impact on consumer confidence and spending
2021 to reach 162,000m3. Latvia has overtaken the US as the largest
is beginning to be reflected in industry forecasts for
single supplying country of hardwoods, accounting for 24.6% of imports.
the year ahead.
This was largely due to their use in the pallet supply chain, where it has
An immediate consequence of the Russia-Ukraine conflict in
substituted for more expensive softwoods. France also overtook the
early 2022 was the widespread call to reduce and end Russian timber
USA in volume to account for 13.8% of the market, with USA falling to
imports, and the industry responded quickly with most contracts now
8% by volume. However, the USA continues to lead all other countries by
ended or approaching the end. We expect indirect Russian imports to
value – at £15m for 13,000m3 – with the lack of available supply imposing
be close to zero in mid- to end-Q3 as the remaining material is flushed
upwards price pressure on the smaller volume of available material.
out of the European supply chain. Plywoods Timber supplies
Imports increased by 11.9% in Q1 2022 compared to the previous
The volume of timber imported by the UK during Q1 2022 was
year, reaching 477,000m3. Hardwood ply volumes were driven mostly
2.5 million m3, nearly half a million m3 behind the record imports of
by China, which continues to be the dominant source of hardwood ply
Q1 2021. However, this was still a higher volume than that seen in
products. Russia’s prominence as a source of hardwood plywood has
either 2018 or 2019. In fact, January, February and March 2022 all
quickly fallen away since trade sanctions were introduced. Brazil, China
saw volumes increase over the previous month, reflecting the strong
and Finland continued to be the main sources of softwood plywood,
construction demand we still enjoyed in Q1. By April, import figures began to decline as demand slowed again. The invasion of Ukraine by Russia, inflation, downgrades to consumer confidence, and political instability in the UK are all beginning to have an impact on the market – which will likely begin to be strongly reflected in the overall supply picture in Q3 and Q4 2022. Softwoods Import volumes decreased by 24.8%, when comparing Q1 2022 to Q1 2021. Imports came primarily from Sweden, Latvia, Finland, Germany, and Ireland. The dominance of the softwood sector on the overall import picture is clear as, despite volume increases for both hardwoods and
plywood, the loss of softwood volume remains the headline news. Timber Trader UK Magazine
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FEATURE SUPPLY & WAREHOUSING
That’s why it is so important for merchants to check the quality and compliance of any roofing battens they stock. While many manufacturers have added coloured dyes to the preservative treatment process, they use on their battens to distinguish them in the market (you may have seen gold, red or blue examples in your own stocks), these colours on their own are not enough to guarantee that the battens meet BS 5534 requirements. Instead, every batten must be indelibly marked showing that it is BS 5534 graded, its size, the supplier’s name, the timber species, and that it has been checked by a third-party certification scheme. All TDUK members who sell roofing/tiling battens and slatings participate in these independently audited quality assurance schemes so that you know you are buying a quality, fit-for-purpose product. The full requirements for a batten to be graded can be found in while supplies of particle board, OSB, and MDF remained relatively
Annex D of the standard. It sets out various factors ranging from knot
stable in Q1 2022.
size, frequency and position, to distortion, slope of grain, and other details. Size also matters here: battens must be a minimum size of
Construction output reached a record high in Q1 2022, but this is unlikely to continue through the rest of the year due to several
38mm x 25mm with very strict tolerances (50mm x 25mm when using
pressures, the most significant of which is inflation, which at 9.1% is
slates) and yet we’ve seen examples of low-quality battens entering the
at its highest rate for 40 years. This, the cost-of-living crisis and a drop
market that are undersize, or that have the BS5534 stamp when they
in consumer and business confidence is all likely to reduce demand
aren’t compliant with the standard.
for construction projects and, therefore, materials. The Spring 2022
Anything other than a fully graded BS5534 batten is simply a piece
Construction Products Association (CPA) Forecast, released in May
of sawn, treated timber and is not fit for purpose. If a merchant has any
2022, revised its construction output growth predictions down to 2.8%
doubts about the grade of any roofing battens, they should check with
from the 4.3% predicted just a few months ago.
the supplier and do their own due diligence, and not accept inferior products that do not meet the required standards.
Roofing battens
More at www.ttf.co.uk
These strips of wood that you find in-between the rafters on a roofing structure are a structural product that builders and tradespeople will often walk, sit or lean on while working on a roof – with obvious and potentially deadly consequences should the battens fail while in use. That’s why roof battens are subject to strict building standards and legislative requirements, both to deliver a quality finish to the final roof, and most importantly, to ensure the safety of construction workers while on site. ‘British Standard 5534:2014+A2:2018 Slating and Tiling for pitched roofs and vertical cladding. Code of practice’ sets out the requirements for roofing battens and specifies that only battens graded to BS
Timco is regularly expanding its operations to cope with growing customer demand
5534 can be called roofing battens or used as such.
Supply chain issues to drive warehouse construction growth New warehouses and infrastructure growth are expected to fuel
been let to global logistics integrator A.P. Moller-Maersk. Unit 4 at
a rise in construction output by 2.5% for 2022, according to the
the business park will be the first net zero carbon logistics building
Construction Product Association’s latest forecast. The trade
in Ireland and will support Maersk with its aim of achieving net zero
body predicts the industrial sector, covering warehouses and
greenhouse gas emissions by 2040. Simon Smith, country manager,
factories, to rise by 15% for 2022 and nearly 10% for 2023.
Maersk Ireland said: “This is a really important next step for Maersk
Construction Products Association, CPA, economics director
in the Irish market which allows us to add significant capabilities
Noble Francis said: “Activity continues to be boosted by the strength
for our customers, as we continue to offer integrated end to end
of online retailing as well as manufacturers’ need for increased stocks
solutions for their supply chains. It is also with great pride that
given the persistence of supply chain issues over the last two years.”
sustainability will sit out at the forefront of these facilities. For
In Dublin, IPUT Real Estate recently pre-let the entirely of
Maersk to be partnering on the first ever glulam timber framed
Quantum Logistics Park to a number of global logistics and retail
facility to be built in this part of Europe, gives a strong signal of our
businesses. The four unit 550,000sq ft park at Kilshane Cross has
commitment to our carbon zero goal.”
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FEATURE SUSTAINABLE SUPPLY
Ideal for timber storage, Wickens racks can help you with… • • • •
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Increasing storage capacity on site. Allowing access to selective stock and enabling stock rotation. Reducing product damage from storage on the floor. Decreasing material handling time and improving site efficiency.
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FEATURE ACHIEVING NET ZERO
Part L and Going for Greener
Image © Smartroof
Getting to grips with the updated Part L of the Building Regulations should be at the forefront of anyone wishing to achieve a net zero target and improve their building’s thermal performance.
A
As the new Approved Document Part L of the Building
Regulations. Also introduced earlier this year, Part O accompanies
Regulations is now in place, minds are focused on
the Part L regulations to improve ventilation and prevent properties
how the new guidance will modify energy efficiency
overheating and suffering from high solar gain.
standards and thermal efficiency of newbuild homes in
Correctly installed in floors, walls and roofspace, the many types
England and Wales.
of insulation (including low carbon woodfibre) provide a barrier that
With the climate emergency declared, housebuilders are now
prevents exterior temperatures outside from impacting interior air
expected to work harder to tackle carbon reduction. With energy bills
conditions and helping maintain a steady indoors climate – whatever
likely to be unstable for some time, the recent changes are acting as
the weather outside. Well-insulated building fabric helps save energy
a transitional step towards the Future Homes Standard, designed to
and reduces bills. A recent report by the Department for Business,
reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the UK’s built environment.
Energy & Industrial Strategy, revealed that heating and power account for 40% cent of the UK’s total energy use, hence the need to address
At the centre of Part L are the guidelines for constructing homes
the thermal performance of the UK’s 28 million homes.
with low carbon heating technology and high energy efficiency, so the housebuilding industry and homeowners can reach the UK’s 2050
Offsite thermal options
net zero targets. Under Part L, all new homes must now produce 31%
Faced with these ambitious aims and the upcoming Future Homes
less CO2 emissions in operation than what was acceptable under the previous Part L Building Regulations. To help, the new guidance
Standard, Smartroof’s offsite modular roof system is an example of
outlines a raft of changes that new homebuilders must work towards to
a system that meets these ambitious targets and can lower carbon
increase energy performance standards. The Future Homes Standard,
emissions, address heat loss and is proving to be one of the most
which comes into effect in 2025 represents a further uplift in domestic
cost-effective and efficient ways for housebuilders to address thermal
energy usage. Homes built from that date will be expected to produce
bridging at junction details within the roof build-up. Tom Wright, Design and Technical Director at Smartroof, says:
75-80% fewer carbon emissions compared to current standards.
“The Smartroof solution offers a wide range of U-values. This offers
The 31% reduction of emissions can be achieved through a better ‘fabric first’ approach. A massive part of the change in improving
significant increases in design flexibility as its insulation levels can
thermal efficiency is also the correctly specified and installed insulation
be adjusted to suit the customer’s requirements. Not only does this
material – a vital building fabric component – and key to new homes
allow the client to ‘futureproof’ their roof, but it also potentially offers
achieving Approved Document O (Overheating) of the Building
significant cost savings as the SAP assessor can trade off gains from one
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FEATURE ACHIEVING NET ZERO
happily make these details available so that SAP assessors can take
U-values
these into account. The ‘loft zone’ above the ceiling in a room-in-roof system will have a negative effect on SAP calculations and result in a
SAP 10, the latest update to the Standard Assessment
higher U-value specification for roof components. The result will be
Procedure (SAP) is incorporated within the revised Part
more expensive materials and/or more follow-on trades. The majority
L regulations and designed to ensure correct thermal
of Smartroof systems have no structural beams, thus allowing the
modelling junctions are used.
housebuilder flexibility to adjust their ceiling height. A system with structural beams is likely to be more restrictive when adjusting ceiling
When it comes to achieving U-values for domestic newbuild
height and will result in costly compromises.
projects it is a requirement for an energy consultant to give
“We have always worked closely with leading SAP assessors and its
SAP advice. SAP informs the thermal ratings of walls, floors, roofs, junction details and any bolt-on renewable technologies
‘room in roof’ panel system is already meeting the standards required.
– the performance of which must correspond with or exceed
Computer modelling enables the company to produce bespoke roofs
the required regulations for the building. These elements can
that are tailored to a client’s needs. Production of the Smartroof
be changed if the property achieves the required dwelling
system in a factory environment ensures no cold spots in the panels
performance. The alternative to a SAP assessment is to work
or spandrels that may arise from more traditional methods onsite. The
on the notional dwelling specification, which must be followed
system’s design makes it inherently airtight and an ideal roof solution
as a minimum to achieve a pass. In addition, to add clarity on
for those developers adopting a fabric first approach. Smartroof’s
how to carry out U-value calculations, the updated Conventions
in-house production facility enables it to stock a wide range of
for U-value calculations – aka BR443 – came into force in June
materials and insulations to ensure it meets every customer’s thermal
in England and will be adopted later this year when respective
requirement. As the construction industry continues to attempt to secure net zero
Building Regulations are also changed in Scotland and Wales.
emissions across the built environment, the new Part L requirement will More at https://bregroup.com/sap
play a major role, alongside innovative products and systems that provide people with energy-efficient – and affordable – homes that will still be saving energy both now and for years to come.
area to another. Achieving higher Fabric Energy Efficiency Standards To read more about the changes Conservation of fuel and power:
(FEES) in house types specification’s will be crucial for housebuilders in
Approved Document L go to www.gov.uk/government/
order to pass SAP and comply with Part L.
publications/conservation-of-fuel-and-power-approved-document-l
“Smartroof recently carried out an independent assessment of its junction details to assess the psi value. All details have outperformed
More about Smartroof at www.smartroof.co.uk
the psi values given as default in table K1 for 2020 regs. Smartroof will
Insulation Boost Earlier this year, Knauf Insulation invested over £45 million across its two UK Glass Mineral Wool plants to boost capacity as well as improve the range, availability and sustainability of its products for the benefit of its customers. As a result of the investment, Knauf Insulation expects to see a circa 20% improvement in the embodied carbon of products supplied from its St Helens plant, building further on its industry-leading position in terms of sustainability. Neil Hargreaves, managing director of Knauf Insulation Northern Europe said: “These investments support the anticipated growth in demand driven by the Future Homes Standard and improved energy efficiency in new buildings as well as from more renovation of existing buildings. These developments are critical as we step up our efforts to tackle the cost-of-living crisis, climate change and energy security.” More at www.knaufinsulation.co.uk
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COVER STORY COMBILIFT
Plugging in to Greener Power
COMBI-FSE two directional sideloader
As materials handling manufacturer Combilift points out – switching to electric power is not only good for the environment, but it’s also good for your workforce, your neighbours and your balance sheet.
W
hen Combilift was established in 1998, the world
expensive than charging batteries, and this has been more of an issue
was quite a different place. In that year, Google was
since 1 April this year as it is no longer legal to use red diesel for non-road
incorporated as a private company in California and
mobile machinery. As electric powered trucks do not have traditional
only 9% of households had access to the internet. And
combustion engines or hydraulic transmissions, there is no longer any
in the world of industrial vehicles, diesel power was the default
need to check and top up engine fluids or lubricants. This results in longer
choice for the majority, as it was considered to offer the best
intervals between services, for further cost saving.
performance in demanding working conditions.
But it’s not all about money either. Just as on-street emissions from traffic have proved to be the cause of serious health problems, people need
Times have of course changed, and the growing demand for electric powered vehicles and equipment has been fuelled by shifting public attitudes towards pollution and more stringent legislation. This has put pressure on manufacturers and companies in a wide variety of industry sectors to “clean up their act” and to focus on more sustainability. The latter is all about taking a long-term look at how you operate, and this will often involve investment in new technology. Switching to an electric fleet from diesel is now a much more attractive option than it once was, and this is down to improved battery performance and technology, which enables ever increasing lift capacities, longer run times and much longer intervals between charging. The latest generation of electric trucks are also versatile and can work indoors and out, which can reduce the overall number of forklifts required and consequently the carbon footprint – as well as operational costs and outlay for insurance, maintenance and so on. So what is good for the planet can also be good for your business. Wide-ranging benefits Talking of finances: the initial cost of an electric truck may be somewhat higher than a diesel model, but over a truck’s lifetime the
Combi-WR4 Pedestrian Reach Stacker
TCO can work out to be better. The soaring price of fuel makes it more Timber Trader UK Magazine
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COVER STORY COMBILIFT
to be protected from pollution at their place of work. The British Safety Council has called for limits on the amount of exposure to diesel emissions, and an electric fleet obviously improves air quality on site and reduces the potential risks to employees, visitors and customers alike. Timber merchant James Latham is on course to replace all of its LPG multidirectional Combilift trucks with electric ones at a number of its sites. This has resulted in a high level of approval from the drivers, one of whom commented: “there is more space in the cab so more legroom, and when you are working in hot weather, conditions are much cooler and more comfortable as there is no heat emanating from the engine.” Noise pollution is an underestimated threat to human health, wildlife and environmental quality, and more and more companies are aiming to quieten down their operations by using electric trucks. One of these is Lawsons Timber which operates from 10 sites in London and numerous others across the south of England and the home counties. David Harvey, group transport manager said: “As a lot of our branches are in residential or urban areas, our electric trucks have enabled us to keep noise levels to a minimum for our neighbours – and of course for the drivers and visitors on-site.” At James Latham, quiet operation has also been beneficial as many depots work 24 hour shifts to maximise delivery capacity, so good
C5000 XLE Multi Directional Forklift
neighbourly relations can be maintained despite these anti-social hours. Combilift’s CEO and co-founder Martin McVicar says: “We made our first electric C-Series over 18 years ago, and we are supporting our customers
in ensuring optimum performance in all weather conditions. Sensors in
in their aims for more sustainable operation by expanding our range of
the front steering axle linked to the innovative Electronic Traction Control
electric powered products. In the last year alone, we added four new
system enable the two independent 15kW drive motors on the rear axle to
electric models to our portfolio, and more than 60% of the trucks that come
be controlled individually, with the speed of each wheel governed by the
off the production lines in Monaghan are now electric. As more and more
steer angle of the front wheels to provide improved steering control for the
of our customers are opting for electric power it is obvious that they are as
operator, better truck turning radius and reduced tyre wear.
committed to sustainability and a circular economy as we are.”
This new technology, when combined with regenerative braking (which recaptures the truck’s kinetic energy during deceleration and can be
New models
used to recharge the batteries to extend battery life), makes for Combilift’s
The new models recently developed by Combilift are eminently suited
most advanced steering system on its four wheeled trucks to date. The
to the requirements of the timber sector. The Combi-XLE multidirectional
generous glazing of the cab, particularly the roof to floor windscreen,
forklift, which was launched in 2021, has a 5,000kg lift capacity so combines
allows the operator to have an excellent field of vison of the load, the
emission-free operation with powerful performance. It benefits from
machine and the surroundings guaranteeing the best operator visibility of
the same features as its original IC counterpart: high ground clearance,
any comparable truck.
large, cushioned front and rear tyres and a spacious cab, allowing smooth
Martin McVicar adds: “We introduced our first 4-wheel sideloader
operation on semi-rough terrain whilst offering a high level of driver
around 10 years ago after initial requests from companies in the timber
comfort. It incorporates up-to-the-minute technology such as the patented
sector, and it has since become pretty much a standard solution for those
all-wheel traction that reduces tyre wear and load swing and enhances
who run intensive schedules which clock up many operational hours. The
braking. Also included is a newly developed, patented Eco-Steer System
advancements in battery technology since then means that it was a natural
which provides a smaller turning radius and improved user experience.
progression to develop this electric model, which will help customers to
The latest model, which premiered at various trade shows in mid-2022,
drastically reduce their carbon footprint.”
is the Combi-FSE – a four wheeled, two directional sideloader with 5,000kg More at www.combilift.com
or 6,000kg lift capacity. The patented traction system plays a major part
All electric fleet for English Woodland Timber Sussex based English Woodlands Timber
These have been instrumental in enabling
vehicles. Chippings are used for biomass and
(EWT) supplies boards, cladding and a
it the company to maximise storage space
other material is recycled into bedding for
wide range of species such as Oak, Elm,
without needing to expand facilities and to
horses for example. Nothing goes to waste
Ash and Sweet Chestnut to the bespoke
keep pace with the recent 50% growth in
and it is electric power wherever possible
joinery sectors. It switched to Combilift’s
business. Equally important is that they are
here, so Combilifts were therefore the
handling solutions from counterbalance
electric, according to Director Ian McNally.
machines of choice, as they are emission free
trucks and now operates two C4000E trucks
“Sustainability is a byword at the EWT
and are also very quiet compared to diesel
together with two 2t capacity Combi-WR4
woodyard, with solar panels on roofs and
machines, which is much appreciated by all
multidirectional pedestrian stacker trucks.
charging stations for those who drive electric
on site.”
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FEATURE MERCHANT FOCUS
Local Landmarks
L-R Josh Howell (retail director), Martin Howell (chairman), Daniel Howell (wholesale director)
We caught up with Luke Brown, head of retail & development at T G Howell & Sons, to find out more about how a small independent merchant is helping keep its customers satisfied.
T
T G Howell & Sons started in 1956, manufacturing
What are the market leading timber products for the trade and
wooden ladders at a small family site in South Wales.
construction sector that you are seeing?
It has now grown and expanded its operations so that
Our core focus as a business is fencing and landscaping product.
over 65 years later, there’s nothing they don’t know
With this in mind, feather edge and standard sawn timber remain the
about timber, with over 70% of its sales coming from treated sawn
leading products from our range. We always make sure our timber is
products. The business now operates two merchant sites and a
supplied from FSC or PEFC-certified suppliers. In fact, this is one of our
five-acre wholesale distribution yard with treatment facility. As they
criteria for suppliers, as we would never consider offering uncertified or
have grown over the years, people have remained at the heart of
conflict timber.
what they do and is something the business is incredibly proud of. How does T G Howell & Sons see the merchant sector What sets the business apart compared to other merchants
developing over the next 18 months – how can the sector
locally?
improve and thrive more?
Timber availability is something that we’ve always strived ourselves
The next 18 months look set to be a challenge for the merchant
on. We want our customers to feel confident that we have the material
sector. Coming off the back of two very strange years, things seem to
they need – when they need it. For this reason, we typically keep a large
have slowed down to pre-Covid demand. Our business and certainly the
volume of our timber on the shelf. This gives us the ability to service
industry learnt a lot over the last couple of years. As an independent,
orders internally and externally with a much quicker turnaround than
we’re aware that we relied too heavily on sales just through our
many other local merchants. To assist this, we operate our own delivery
merchant sites, failing to invest as much as we should have in our digital
service with vehicles ranging from 3.5 - 44T. This allows us to cater to a
systems and online. The huge upturn in customers shopping from home
range of customers, from home deliveries to order direct to site.
throughout the pandemic gave us an opportunity to really drive this area of our business. As we begin to return to the new ‘norm’, a lot of
How has the timber material supply chain been over recent
these shopping behaviours seem to have remained and customers are
months – is it stabilising? Where have the pressure points been
shopping around a lot more before committing to purchase materials.
and is the energy crisis changing trade?
We only see this trend increasing over the next 18 months, as the
Over the last few months, our supply chain has started to stabilise.
future remains uncertain on the increase in cost of living. That’s why
Materials are now much more accessible, in complete contrast to what we
we’re continuing to invest in this area of our business to better serve
saw over the last 12-18 months. We would even go as far as saying material
our customers and to remain reactive to changes in our market.
has been easier to source than it should be, for the time of year. The pressure points have come from the range of timber that’s been available
See overleaf for more on how T G Howell & Sons have partnered
since mid-2020 and uncertainty over Russian timber supply following the
with Kerridge Commercial Systems to improve its business
start of the war in Ukraine. More recently, our current energy crisis has
efficiencies and their end level of customer service.
caused a change to our customers shopping behaviour, as many people More at www.terryhowell.co.uk
remain uncertain about the cost of their bills over the winter period. Timber Trader UK Magazine
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K8: Business management solution of choice for the timber industry • Cloud-based software that’s affordable, flexible and scalable • Optimise your warehouse management and meet your customers’ delivery expectations • Get trading online and open up new channels to market quickly and easily • Powerful financial control – manage your rebates, automate invoice processing • Improve your team’s performance, manage your margins and boost profits
www.kerridgecs.com
Your business. Your way. Timber Trader UK Magazine
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FEATURE MERCHANT FOCUS
Go Optimum Go Digital
In 2020 Terry Howell, an independent family timber and builders’ merchant in South Wales, partnered with Kerridge Commercial Systems (KCS) to implement their leading ERP solution, K8.
T
he business selected K8
Howell, explains why the timber merchants
to focus on the change in consumer buying
because it is specifically
chose K8. “What really stood out to us about
behaviour, especially online,” adds Luke. “For
designed and developed
K8 was the scope for tailoring the system to
example, in just a quick internet search, you
for the merchant industry,
suit our specific business needs. In addition,
can find a list of a dozen companies that might
improving efficiencies and their end level of
we were really encouraged by the knowledge
be supplying timber or building materials
customer service.
and expertise of the consultancy team. Having
locally. We wanted a way for us to provide our
individuals on our project who understood our
customers with a better online experience
platform that enables merchants to manage
industry was a huge help in the build stages,
and really shout about who we are as a family
everything from front-end sales to back-office
with the ability to bounce ideas off each other
business. K8 WebPro helps us do that.”
administrative functions. Additionally, the
and share best practices on how we could get
software is designed to help merchant and
the system to work for us.”
K8 is a sophisticated and intuitive trading
distribution businesses improve their day-to-
It’s clear to see that Terry Howell has seen steady and continuous growth since being
Since implementing the system in
founded in 1956. Moving to K8 has streamlined
day performance with boosted profits and
November 2021, the business has already seen
their existing business processes and given them
margins they can manage in detail.
a huge change in its ability to forecast sales
a platform to accelerate their digital journey over
and stock requirements. Historically, Terry
the next year. Currently, Terry Howell continues
its life manufacturing wooden ladders before
Howell had relied on handwritten sales orders
to gain momentum and coupled with K8, the
diversifying into sawmilling fencing material
and inventory processes, which was proving
company shows no signs of slowing down.
at their timber mill in South Wales. Since
inefficient as the scale of the business continued
then, the business has grown to include two
to grow. Luke explains further: “This was a huge
More at www.terryhowell.co.uk
merchant locations and a five-acre wholesale
process change for our business, especially
www.kerridgecs.com
site, supplying timber and fencing material to
going from pen and paper, but our team have
independent merchants across the UK. The
been phenomenal in rising to the challenge.”
company prides itself on quality, service and
And while Terry Howell has already
Established in 1956, Terry Howell began
seen improvements since implementing K8,
value for money. “As the scale of our business continued to
they’re not stopping there. The business is
grow,” says Martin Howell, chairman at Terry
partnering with KCS on their next project, the
Howell. “We needed a way to ensure our sales
implementation of K8 WebPro. Scheduled
and inventory processes were more efficient.
to roll out later this year, K8 WebPro is a
That way, we could meet increased demand
cloud-based ecommerce add-on that allows
and improve the end experience for our
businesses to receive orders online directly
customers.”
into the K8 system.
Recognising the need to streamline and
Supporting both B2B and B2C trading
improve accuracy with business management
models, the system was the perfect choice for
software, Luke Brown, head of retail at Terry
Luke and the team. “Since K8, we’ve been keen
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FEATURE TIMBER EXPO TREATMENTS 2022
Trade & Talk Timber
As UKCW Birmingham returns to the NEC from 4th to 6th October 2022, Timber Expo will play a main part of the show as the UK’s only dedicated timber exhibition.
C
o-located events at UKCW Birmingham include Timber Expo, the UK’s only dedicated timber exhibition, which has been running for 10 years. Attended by architects, local authorities, merchants,
developers, housebuilders and contractors, Timber Expo is designed for people who use, specify, design and build with timber, and offers the opportunity to join hundreds of other brands showcasing their latest innovation, products and services. Timber Expo which is backed by and held in collaboration with Timber Development UK (TDUK), BM TRADA, Timber Construction and Timber Trader will have a programme of industry leaders, including architects, developers, housebuilders and merchants to name a few. “Although the construction sector makes up a significant proportion
They will debate and discuss the sector as we tackle post pandemic supply issues, post Brexit challenges, the impact of the Ukraine conflict
of the UK’s working population, we’re all aware of the huge skills
on timber supply chain and the drive to net zero as we strive to meet
shortages in the industry, and with the impact of the global pandemic
COP26 targets.
and current climate, the importance and the appetite to raise awareness
The exhibitor profile includes structural timber frame, sawmills,
of the fantastic opportunities in this sector has only increased. As one
merchants, glulam, SIPs, CLT, fixings and fastenings, timber cladding,
of the youngest and most dynamic cities in Europe, Birmingham is the
doors and windows, mouldings, skirtings and flooring products.
ultimate setting for this show, and we can’t wait to be back.” UK Construction Week Birmingham will celebrate culture change
Confirmed exhibitors at Timber Expo include Rokamat, Engineered Timber Solutions Ltd, Woodolex Ltd, the Ghana Forestry Commission
in construction with three days of debate and discussion from
and Hanson Plywood Ltd who specialise in the import, storage and
top speakers on how the industry can move forward to tackle its
distribution of wood-based panel products throughout the UK.
biggest issues, including quality, fire safety, sustainability, offsite manufacturing, mental health, and improving diversity and inclusion.
Nathan Garnett, UKCW show director, commented: “UK
As well as Timber, visitors will also be able to find sections
Construction Week has always put timber at the heart of our event, and this year it will be all the more important that we use our platform in
dedicated to Building Materials, Digitalisation, Infrastructure, Energy,
Birmingham to promote timber in construction. The drive to net-zero
HVAC, Surface & Materials, Offsite Construction and Skills & Careers. Officially opened by architect and Channel 4 presenter George
and the increasing need to improve quality in construction mean we
Clarke, UKCW Birmingham will also feature sessions and seminars
need to enable a culture change in the way we build.
in the Sustainability Hub forming the conference programme at the
“This will be the seventh edition of our Birmingham show bringing together the whole industry. Following the hugely successful launch of
heart of Timber Expo. The hub programme will tackle the issues, layout
the first-ever London show earlier this year, the standard has now been
strategies and present exemplar case studies to help the sector reach
set for UK Construction Week Birmingham.
its net zero targets.
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The show for those who design & build
those with timber, and who manufacture & distribute timber products
REGISTER FREE www.timberexpo.co.uk
CO-LOCATED WITH
#timberexpo Timber Trader UK Magazine
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FEATURE TIMBER EXPO 2022
Sustainability seminars: 4th October
5th October
6th October
10:45-11:30: Whole Life Carbon: The
10:30-11:15: Levers for success; key points
10:30-11:15: Creating a workforce to
commercial reality of carbon in construction
for government and business to work
support a low-carbon future
11:35-12:20: ESG Finance, construction and
together
11:20-12:05: A new model for upskilling
the climate challenge
11:20-12:05: Best practice: exemplars of
professionals
12:25-13:10: Energy policy: where do we go
national and international collaboration we
12:10-12:55: Circular economy, circular city
from here
can learn from
13:00-13:50: Housing; what is the biggest
13:15-14:00: Social sustainability is another
12:10-12:55: Meridian Water - works
issue among all the big issues
way of saying ‘social value’
13:00-13:45: City Trees - Timber for the city
13:50-14:40: Innovation in Timber -
14:05-14:50: Re-designing an industry for
13:50-14:35: The World’s tallest timber building
changing the world with wood
all-round health
14:40 – 15:25: Building with waste
14:40-15:30: The Cork House
exhibitor slots already taken, UKCW Birmingham is on track to be the
In addition to the Sustainability Hub and main stages, the Careers
biggest and best yet.
Centre will provide a series of talks aimed at those interested in a
Designed to connect the whole supply chain and be a catalyst for
career in construction, whether that be graduates, students in further
growth, UKCW Birmingham is the must-attend construction event this
education, or those looking at a career change.
Autumn and is expecting around 25,000 attendees.
UKCW Birmingham will see over 6,000 products on display from
The 2022 show has an even stronger emphasis on future
over 300 exciting exhibitors including Bosch, Schneider Electric, Google, Graco Distribution, Wavin, Cemex, Hanson Plywood and many
development in the industry and this year’s theme is Celebrating Culture
more. This year, the multi award-winning show has also attracted an
Change in Construction that will be present throughout the show, which
abundance of overseas exhibitors, including brands from as far afield
is backed by all the industry’s leading organisations, including AICO,
as Australia, India, Norway, Turkey and the UAE. With more than 75% of
Bosch, Hanson, Northgate and Quadrant Building.
Key show features include: •
•
UKCW Role Model Awards: UKCW Birmingham will also host
•
Social Value: Ann Bentley, Global Board Director at Rider Levett
the UKCW Role Model Awards, celebrating the pioneers of
Bucknall, and board member of the Construction Leadership
construction. The award ceremony will be taking place on the
Council, has led the way on bringing about behaviour change
main stage on 5th October
and unlocking social value through changes in the construction
Seminar Programme: a comprehensive seminar programme
process. She will give her reflections on the launch of the value
and CPD opportunities
toolkit and what it can do for the sector.
•
Innovation Zone: a dedicated showcase of innovative products
•
UKCW Careers Fair: launched at the show in London and
Day Two:
coming to Birmingham, get free face-face career advice and
•
meet and network with top employers at the UKCW Careers Fair
Business, Innovation and Regulation: Including the new Building Safety Act, the ongoing digital revolution, and the challenges facing the supply chain brought about by the pandemic and war in Ukraine.
•
A packed seminar programme at UKCW will focus on a
Economic Outlook: What does the economic outlook for
myriad of topics including skills, social value, business, innovation
the sector look like? Top economists Professor Noble Francis,
and regulation, major projects, procurement and housing -
Economic Director at the Construction Products Association,
complemented by 20 dedicated CPD sessions across the three days,
and Tom Hall, Chief Economist at Barbour ABI, will offer crucial
covering everything from Supply Chain Resilience to the Building
information for those planning the months ahead.
Safety Act. Seminar highlights include:
Day Three: Day One: •
•
Major projects, procurement and housing: bringing together
Skills: UKCW Birmingham will look at the skills agenda, and on
the solutions from the conference programme to the biggest
the solutions that have been found by industry leaders, such as
challenges of the day. These include retrofitting the majority of
Rick Lee OBE, Chief People Person at Willmott Dixon, who was
UK housing stock, creating net infrastructure, and a look into
instrumental in securing the RICS Inclusive Employer Quality
the regional opportunities in the West Midlands region enabled
Mark for the Tier One Contractor.
by HS2 and its satellite projects.
Furthermore, the Careers Centre will offer visitors an array of informative talks
To register for UKCW Birmingham for FREE go to
aimed at those interested in a career in construction, whether that be graduates,
ukcw-birmingham-2022.reg.buzz/pr
students in further education, or those looking at a career change.
Follow us on social media @uk_cw #UKCW2022
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STAND B200
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combilift.com
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FEATURE FORESTRY & CERTIFICATION
Data & the Three Pillars of Sustainable Forestry According to Rolf Schmitz, co-founder and co-CEO of CollectiveCrunch and the creator of Linda Forest software solutions, digitising the world’s forests is essential to understanding and fighting climate change.
I
f a tree falls in the forest, it hardly matters if it makes
based products play a key role in replacing less sustainable, plastic-
a sound, but it helps to know it happened. Through
based products and packaging. Such products are biodegradable, and
advanced data analysis and artificial intelligence (AI),
the trees harvested to create them are replaced with new trees. In a
companies that manage forest inventories or produce
circular, sustainable forestry model, they’re used, reused, recycled, and
wood-based products can better estimate these rich resources.
regenerated. Carbon offsetting – offsetting has become a critical tool in
Increasingly, our climate depends on it.
counterbalancing the harmful effects of greenhouse gas emissions.
You’ve heard that the world’s forests are critical to fighting climate change, based in part on their ability to absorb carbon dioxide, the
By investing in, protecting, replanting, and managing forest growth,
primary greenhouse gas threatening our planet. But that’s just part
companies sponsor through credits the capture of CO2 to offset their
of the story. Trees aren’t just for reducing carbon emissions; they are
emissions, effectively reducing their carbon footprint. For carbon
renewable resources and sustain biodiversity. Understanding more
credits to be viable, and to avoid ‘green-washing’, the forest inventories
precisely how forests develop, regenerate, and are harvested is key to
of carbon projects need to be measured and tracked. Currently too
the planet’s sustainability.
many carbon projects have questionable foundations. Biodiversity – in the process of moving toward a circular economy
Forests cover around 30% of our planet. In order to manage our forests for a more sustainable future, we need insights into the planet’s
and carbon offsetting, sustainable forestry also needs to promote
forests at scale. This calls for digitising these vast, analog spaces.
biodiversity. There will always be a need for fast-growing, commercial tree plantations – forests planted and managed to support circular
Three pillars of sustainable forestry
industries or large-scale carbon capture – but they should be balanced
Sustainable forestry rests on three important pillars: circular
with diverse forests. Biodiversity helps maintain the natural resilience of
economics, carbon offsetting, and biodiversity. Striking a balance
forest ecosystems and ensures their longevity for generations to come
among the three is important, but so is the ability to measure success
– the very definition of sustainability. With the understanding that sustainable forestry rests on these
across all three using data. Circular economics – harvesting forests for raw materials is as old
three pillars, it’s important to understand the challenges the industry faces in strengthening them.
as mankind, and although mankind has had a spotty track record in doing so responsibly, harvesting forests for raw materials will continue
Circular economics needs to be more efficient. When it comes
to be important — even to the world’s sustainability. Wood and paper-
to harvesting, production, and recycling, better analytics improves
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Get accredited, get noticed
get the Mark
SICK’s Next-Generation Distance Sensor – An ‘All-Rounder’ with Countless Possibilities SICK has launched its next-generation OD2000 distance sensor, combining highprecision reliability with outstanding economy to deliver a versatile ‘all-rounder’ for multiple applications in timber and wood processing. The stand-alone and compact SICK OD2000 has been developed to provide a universal product family with minimal variants, while making configuration and parameterisation ‘plug and play’. With IO-Link as standard, the SICK OD2000 offers highly-versatile machine integration possibilities, while providing for diagnostics and condition monitoring. With a large measuring range up to 1,200mm, as well as a measuring frequency of up to 7.5 kHz, the OD2000 will therefore be a trusted solution for wide-ranging positioning and quality control tasks in automated production and assembly, including robotics. Using its high-precision triangulation measurement principle, the OD2000 achieves high repeatability and linearity, and it can detect the smallest differences in height, even in the micrometre range.
Are you a timber decking or cladding supplier or installer?
With five different measuring ranges between 25 and 1,200 mm, the SICK OD2000 is ready to master any task, including demanding, high-speed measurement regardless of surface, diameter, thickness or width. It is can also solve challenging background suppression applications where precise distance differentiation or small hysteresis settings are required. The price/performance advantages of the new SICK OD2000 family are expected to be especially welcomed by production teams, system integrators and machine builders in wood processing applications, for example, for measuring wanes and board thicknesses.
Do you do things the ‘right way’?
Get the recognition you deserve. DeckMark and CladMark quality schemes are industry recognised, third-party accreditations. They provide independent verification of high standards and best practice. Such validation is vital to specifiers looking to ensure their projects go smoothly.
The SICK OD2000 is ready to use out-of-the-box with widely-useable default settings. The on-sensor OLED display makes parameterisation and adjustment quick and easy. Alternatively, set up via SICK’s SOPAS software has been enhanced with a new graphical user interface and a QUICK SET menu. Together with direct parameterisation via IO-Link, this is especially useful when mounting in hard-to-reach locations. Using IO-Link to access existing data also makes it easy to replace a sensor, should this be necessary, reducing machine downtime and preventing incorrect settings. Seamless integration versatility underlines the SICK OD2000’s all-round usefulness. The OD2000 can send both adjustable analog output (mA/V) and digital output signals. Smart point-to-point communication for Industry 4.0 integrations is enabled via the IO-Link interface, which also means the signal transmission and power supply can use a single cable. With IO-Link, the OD2000 can output process and diagnostic data for condition monitoring and predictive maintenance.
London Decking Company
©Image: Hufton+Crow
Get in touch and arrange your audit today
“With the OD2000, SICK has introduced a brand new displacement measurement family that can be relied on by production teams to assure precision performance and consistent process quality, whatever the application,” concludes David Hannaby, SICK’s UK Product Manager for Presence Detection. “The universal concept will help to minimise inventories and ensure efficient ordering and delivery. The OD2000 is mounted in an instant and set up is completed in next to no time. Machine builders will particularly welcome the OD2000’s integration flexibility and communications versatility.”
info@tdca.org.uk | 01977 558147 The Timber Decking & Cladding Association is an independent, not-for-profit technical and advisory trade body. Recognised as the authoritative source of expert opinion in the UK.
For more information, please contact Andrea Hornby on 01727 831121 or email andrea.hornby@sick.co.uk.
DeckMark and CladMark schemes require a full business audit and assessment followed by annual surveillance audits.
SICK (UK) LTD Waldkirch House, 39 Hedley Road St Albans, Herts AL1 5BN Tel: +44 (0) 1727 831121 info@sick.co.uk
Timber Trader UK Magazine
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FEATURE FORESTRY & CERTIFICATION
performance. For example, better knowledge of the quantities,
The fact is, there exists good data about the world’s forests,
locations, and timings of harvests, as well as the production of precisely
whether generated through established light detection and ranging
what the market needs, are critical to sustainable forestry. It’s been
(LiDAR) technology, satellite imagery, human data collection, or
shown that maximising the value of forests and targeting only the
other means. But it’s often disjointed and quickly out of date. Using
wood resources producers need can improve margins of forest owners
AI, we can breathe fresh life into forestry data by feeding it into an
up to 7%.
advanced geographic information system and, through purpose-
Carbon offsetting needs to be reliable. The voluntary carbon
engineered algorithms, create all-new, highly accurate models for
trading market is growing fast, but participating companies are at
growth conditions, forest density, inventories, and more. The result is a
reputational risk if they claim carbon neutrality based on credits that
dynamically changing AI model for sustainable forestry predictions and
can’t be supported by real-world conditions. Tracking carbon-capture
management.
projects using state-of-the-art technology is key not only to ensuring
A sustainable forestry platform can, for example, better detect
such projects achieve the desired, climate-saving results, but also
species in a forest to support biodiversity initiatives. By analysing forest
to proving to the ecosystem of interested parties – corporations,
density, it can ascertain carbon-capture potential in situations where
regulators, NGOs, the public – that they do. Such tracking needs to
the canopy is well preserved – giving the appearance of greater density
make use of the scientific and technical resources available today.
– while its understory is thoroughly harvested.
Biodiversity needs to be measurable. Promoting diverse forest
Other advances will contribute to the pillars, too. For example,
conditions that support a more sustainable planet is essential to
in terms of circular forests, companies will soon incorporate more
creating natural resilience against the impacts of climate change.
GPS technology into their operations, giving the industry even more
Several years ago, it was common to see single-species tree
granular data about forests – down to individual trees. This will allow
afforestation used to establish fast-growing forests. Such projects
a data platform to generate digital twins of forests for better ‘what-if’
need to include additional, indigenous species at different growth
modeling and accurate forecasting.
stages to support wildlife habitat survival and guard the variety of life.
Of course, any reliable and scientifically rigorous forest model needs
All forestation efforts must be held to their claims through rigorous
ground truth for calibration. Over time, we will need to adopt standardised
monitoring and verification. This requires incorporating biodiversity
ways of collecting and storing such ground truth data if we’re to enjoy
products, such as species mix and keystone species, into everyday forest
truly scalable, sustainable forest inventories. The digital transformation
management. The challenge of measurable biodiversity is translating
of forests creates clearer visibility into the circular economics, carbon
these products into reality accurately and at sufficient scale.
offsetting, and biodiversity of sustainable forestry. With better data, forests can have a far greater impact on climate change.
You can’t sustain what you can’t measure
More at www.collectivecrunch.com
Addressing these challenges takes a far more efficient, dataintensive approach to understanding forests. To date, sustainable forestry has relied on manual and inexact methods for measuring the effects of these three pillars. In an age of digitalisation, when everything from supply chains to smart cities are being reinvented through information technology, forests have been largely out of reach. But the forest industry must adopt digital systems in all its aspects. To promote circular economics in forestry, to establish a traceable, transparent market for carbon capture and offsetting and to ensure that biodiversity underpins all these efforts, there needs to be greater real-time visibility into forests and their conditions. Today vast parts of global forests are managed through 19th century methods: the manual sampling of trees. The industry needs to better model forests through various applications of artificial intelligence, earth observation, and machine learning. Timber Trader UK Magazine
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YOUR FAMILY TIMBER MERCHANTS Contact Us Newport Branch
Pontypool Branch
01633 246 000
01495 762 849
For wholesale enquiries contact: 01633 289 283
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FEATURE PACKAGING
Reduce Your Plastic Waste With concerns surrounding plastic packaging in the construction supply chain, both TDUK and the National Buying Group have offered guidance and support. •
The new Plastic Packaging Tax, which came into force on 1 April 2022, means producers or importers of plastic packaging that contains less than 30% recycled plastic will be taxed an additional £200 per tonne.
•
This tax applies to all business importing or manufacturing 10 tonnes or more of finished plastic packaging components within a 12-month period.
•
Businesses that import or manufacture less than 10 of taxable packaging over a 12-month period must keep detailed records to prove to HMRC they do not qualify for the tax
•
Businesses can mitigate costs from these changes by making use of easily recycled packaging, recovering packaging waste themselves, of through reusable packaging.
Plastic packaging remains widely used across the building products sector so collaboration will be needed to mitigate the impact of a looming increase in plastic packaging tax
T
Readers of the report will gain insight on how they may be able to The timber trade is a £10 billion industry in the UK with
mitigate the impact of the change in regulations on their businesses, as
the members of Timber Development UK accounting for
well as the timeline for change. The report aims to first summarise the
85% of that industry, encompassing timber importers,
current packaging waste regulations and how they affect the members
merchants, agents and manufacturers. With such a
of Timber Development UK regarding specific products we know are
wide array of member interests, every facet of the packaging waste
handled, before turning to the prospective changes to the packaging
regulations are bound to be encountered in some form or other.
waste regulations. These upcoming changes, which are still prospective
Packaging is an important component for the safe transport of
at the moment, otherwise known as ‘Extended Producer Responsibility’, encompass a marked change in the regulations.
products, including timber, yet it is also a major contributor to waste production in the UK. To tackle this problem, and incentivise better,
In summary, the report states: “The current packaging waste
more efficient use of packaging, including reuse and recycling, the UK
regulations, under the principle of shared producer responsibility, is a
Government has introduced some major legislative changes.
complex system with which members of Timber Development UK interact
Plastic remains the most commonly used packaging for
at multiple junctures. These regulations will see significant change in the
construction products and is being targeted by HMRC’s Plastic
coming years, with dates for reform set in 2024. Some of the exact details
Packaging Tax, which came into force on the 1 April 2022. The tax
of the reform are not yet certain, but the nature of that reform is.
applies a charge of £200 per tonne to all plastic without a minimum of
“This change comes in three main forms: changes to financial
30% recycled content. DEFRA’s plans to bring in Extended Producer
burdens for packaging producers, changes to the compliance system
Responsibility legislation in 2024 will incentivise the industry’s
Timber Development UK members interface with, and changes to
supply chain to reduce its overall packaging output, especially plastic
the kind of data Timber Development UK members will be required
packaging, or to adopt recycled materials where a significant reduction
to collect. With these provisional changes explained, this document
in volume may not be possible.
has also attempted to explain the ways in which Timber Development
Timber Development UK, to help members get to grips with these
UK members can mitigate the impact of changes to their business
changes, commissioned Valpak to do a ‘deep dive’ into what this means
operations and the earliest possible dates by which they will see
for the timber supply chain. Some of the key insights included in the
these changes come into force. Following on from this discussion, this
report are:
document has also given a brief overview of the Plastic Packaging Tax which came into force on the 1 April 2022, and some of the implications
•
of this tax for Timber Development UK members.”
Under the proposed Extended Producer Responsibility Regulations, more businesses will be captured and they will face greater cost, as
Independent merchants
compared with the current regime •
•
Businesses with a turnover equal to, or greater than, £1 million, and
The National Buying Group (NBG) is to accelerate its talks with
handling packaging of 25 tonnes or more, must complete bi-annual
packaging suppliers as it steps up efforts to reduce plastic packaging
reporting
in the construction supply chain and the potential tax impact on
The government predicts that under this new regime the overall
independent merchants. A recent NBG Sustainability and Cost
financial costs for producers will rise from £230 million to £1.7
Reduction Forum meeting, attended by both Partners and Suppliers,
billion, as it seeks to recover 100% of recycling packaging costs (up
was given the results of an in-depth audit of a builder’s merchant that is
from 7%)
facing a potential tax bill in excess of £75,000. Timber Trader UK Magazine
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FEATURE PACKAGING
The same audit calculated that suppliers of plastic packaging to
most importantly, where it can be eliminated altogether with no impact
Kellaway could be set for an even greater increase. With suppliers
on product quality, transportation or merchant yard safety.
deemed to have the greatest influence on the packaging set for an
Fleetwood says the audit has given NBG a much better
increase of somewhere between a 10 and 30-fold increase on current
understanding of where the problem areas are. “We will never be able
prices, the audit calculated a potential jump from £3,000 in 2022 to a
to eliminate plastic packaging entirely, but the audit did identify areas
staggering £196,000 come 2024.
for reduction. There are clearly some products where it is entirely
Bob Fleetwood of Kellaway Building Supplies, who is leading NBG’s
unnecessary to use plastic packaging, such as spades and other tools, or
plastics reduction team along with Jasmine King from NBG’s Central Team,
where it is for branding only, such as stone paving which is consolidated
says the audit looked at all areas of the merchant’s activity, both indoors
on wooden stillages.
and in the yard, to build up a picture of what merchants are facing in terms
Earlier in the year, Nick Oates, managing director at National
of their tax liability. The audit identified multiple areas that require further
Buying Group, said: “With merchant businesses carrying the cost
examination, including the use of plastic packaging for branding purposes,
burden, ideally redesigning packaging to eliminate or reducing
the potential over-use of stretch wrap to secure product to pallets and
plastic content is best, if they are to avoid a financial cliff-edge.
the use of dumpy bags for
If this is not possible the next best choice, will be switching to
transporting aggregate.
packaging containing 30% recycled content or more, all which must
“The audit looked at
be supported by providing evidence based accurate product data.
everything from hand tools
We’ve assessed one of our merchant partners, Kellaway Building
to roofing felt, insulation and
Supplies, to try and understand the potential impact and the findings
timber along with all packaging
are very concerning. Our assessment is that a mixed merchant with
types from branded packaging
15 branches could be looking at an increase in the tax burden of circa
to bubble wrap, stretch and
2,400%, from circa £5,000 to £105,000.”
shrink wrap,” Mr. Fleetwood explains. We now need to
The full Valpak report, The current and prospective packaging waste
understand why manufacturers
regulations: As they apply to the timber trade, is free for download at
of building products use plastic
https://ttf.co.uk/download/the-current-and-prospective-
packaging, what alternatives can
packaging- waste-regulations
be put in place, such as recycled
You can find out more about the NBG audit at
plastic packaging and, perhaps
www.nationalbuyinggroup.com
WE MAKE THE UK’S WIDEST RANGE OF STORAGE OPTIONS FOR TIMBER MERCHANTS
PROJECT RACKS DESIGNED AND
HIGH QUALITY RACKING
HIGHLY COMPETITIVE BESPOKE
WE DESIGN, MANUFACTURE AND INSTALL CANTILEVER RACKING, PALLET RACKING,VERTICAL STORAGE AND PIGEON HOLE RACKING CALL US NOW FOR YOUR FREE SITE SURVEY ON 01543 278123 OR EMAIL sales@stakapal.co.uk
www.stakapal.co.uk
www.semcoltd.co.uk
www.redirack.co.uk
BETTY’S LANE, NORTON CANES, CANNOCK, STAFFORDSHIRE, WS11 9NZ
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FEATURE TRAINING
New Timber Talent
NMITE has launched two short courses in Timber Technology Engineering Design to upskill and reskill UK built environment professionals.
S
ince opening in September 2021, the New Model
have in timber education.”
Institute for Technology & Engineering (NMITE) now
NMITE’s vision is to deliver a different model of engineering higher
offers both a BEng and MEng in Integrated Engineering,
education developing work-ready, talented engineers. It aims to recruit
and is launching two new short CPD courses. Delivered
a diverse cohort, including learners who may not have considered
in partnership with Timber Development UK and Edinburgh Napier
engineering as a career. These learners won’t be studying engineering,
University, the first course started on 26 September 2022.
instead they’ll be learning how to become engineers. NMITE’s
Timber Technology Engineering Design 1 (TED 1) is a 12-week
curriculum brings the engineering disciplines together and integrates the
blended course composed of online distance learning and three on-
liberal arts and the interpersonal skills needed by today’s employers to
campus challenge sprints of one week each. The Timber Technology
tackle the world’s problems.
Engineering Design 2 (TED 2) 12-week course will begin in January 2023,
“Right now, we have a really incredible opportunity for learners to
for those who have completed TED 1.
get on the ground floor of this new course, and become part of a leading
Both courses aim to build a community of knowledge in timber as a
group within the future of timber construction in the UK,” says Professor
building material, contribute to the UK’s understanding of sustainable
Robert Hairstans. “As the first course of its kind, Timber TED offers the
building, and provide a generation of timber professionals with an
most well-rounded education on all elements of timber construction
understanding of the principles of timber design construction and
available in the UK, helping understand the journey of wood all the way
engineering methods within the context of the built environment. NMITE
from tree to high performing construction product. We are also close to
says, as well as in the UK it expects the courses to attract attention
securing funding to support the tuition fees of some pioneer learners. By
internationally in regions where timber construction is prevalent.
registering early you increase your chance to get into the course, and to
Associate professor Aghlab Al-Attili, academic lead says “We have
get some additional help towards your fee from our backers.”
developed the courses to appeal to a wide range of Built Environment
Timber TED 2, the second of these courses, covers design,
Professionals, working full or part-time in architecture firms and
construction, technology, and manufacture. It’s set to become available
construction companies including designers, architectural assistants or
in early 2023. Both Timber TED courses take a blended learning approach
those involved in technical sales. There is currently no CPD course that
of online and in-person teaching at the new purpose built NMITE campus
directly addresses timber in construction on this scale of detail with the
in Hereford formed itself for advanced timber technologies.
same degree of academic rigour and associated learning techniques
“We are delighted to have been able to work so closely with
which address the market need.”
NMITE and Edinburgh Napier University in the development of such
NMITE’s new Centre for Advanced Timber Technology (CATT)
an important series of courses,” says Tabitha Binding, TDUK’s head
building is now in operation. Robert Hairstans who was appointed as
of education and engagement. “There is a huge skills crisis in the
CATT’s founding director in March 2021 to lead the development and
construction sector, especially when you consider the volume of work
delivery of the building and to help establish it as the leading national
needed for the industry to achieve net zero by 2050. This covers what
location in timber education said: “We are delighted to see how fast
was clearly a gap in the market around timber engineering and design
things have moved in the last year. These two new courses will reach new
education. These courses will not only provide fundamental skills for
audiences, outside our Integrated Engineering BEng and MEng students,
those looking to expand their knowledge, but also futureproof their skill
attracting attendees from the UK and internationally. It shows both the
set within a climate crisis calling out for more sustainable design.”
speed at which NMITE can move, the role it can play in delivering both More at www.nmite.ac.uk
degree programmes and short courses, and therefore the impact we will Timber Trader UK Magazine
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ADVERTORIAL STAKAPAL
Handloaded timber solutions from Stakapal
Whatever your timber storage requirements are - Stakapal offer a complete range of racking solutions tailored to meet your individual picking requirements.
M
ost warehouse facilities will have dedicated pedestrian zones that are separate from busy areas that regularly utilise forklifts and other mechanical machinery. Stakapal manufacture a choice of either horizontal or
vertical storage systems that are specifically designed to meet your operational requirements. For hand-loaded storage and selection of a range of softwoods, hardwoods, timber profiles and decorative mouldings in relatively small quantities we offer the following options: Pigeon Hole Racking Pigeon Hole Racking is a horizontal storage system which gives you the capacity to store and select a variety of differing lengths of long products. Your range is stored in separate compartments that are divided by vertical beams that can either be fixed in place or adjustable dependent upon your individual requirements. The 50mm pitch of our post section ensures maximum adjustability making this an extremely versatile storage option. We also offer customers the option of an additional raised storage
sloped frame shaped like an ‘A’. With a range of differing frame heights,
area above the racks which is accessible by a side staircase with hand
you can store any product length up to 6m. Standard bay widths are
rails. Loading gates can also be manufactured where appropriate and
2700mm or 1350mm which can be separated into infinitely adjustable
the system can be supplied with a fully decked finish or left prepared
compartments using either D dividers or divider arms.
ready to fit your own floor at a later date.
With over 55 years’ experience of manufacturing storage solutions for the timber industry, Stakapal are full members of SEMA (Storage
Vertical Storage/A Frame Racking
Equipment Manufacturers Association) which means our products
Opting for our Vertical Storage/A Frame Racking could ultimately
have been designed, manufactured and installed to rigorously defined
save you valuable warehouse space. Available in either a single-sided
standards. We offer a range of Cantilever Racking and Pallet Racking
configuration for storing against a wall or a double-sided configuration
solutions as well as a full range of Warehouse Racking Systems.
dependent upon your floor area. Call us for your free site survey on 01543 278123,
This type of system as the name suggests enables you to store
email sales@stakapal.co.uk or visit www.stakapal.co.uk
a selection of products vertically with the item’s length resting on a Timber Trader UK Magazine
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Choose life, Choose wood
Endless possibilities for decking and cladding Timber Trader UK Magazine
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Discover our world of timber
Nature’s first choice
Ask for your personal login to our online portal
Contact Bergstraat 25 8511 Aalbeke Belgium vandecasteele.be
Prompt delivery
genevieve@vandecasteele.be +32 56 43 33 00 dave@vandecasteele.be +44 15 94 83 43 32
More than 50 decking species
Flexibility
Just like Kevin, Timber Connection know how important flexibility is in business today. In an ever-changing landscape we’re adapting to trading conditions before your very eyes, ensuring we’ll have what you want exactly when you want it. From forward ordering to just in time deliveries, from consignment call off deals to ex quay and on water options, we have the solutions. Timber Connection, we’re easy to do business with.
Better, connected. www.timberconnection.co.uk