Specification Magazine October 2015

At Tarmac our vision is to be our customers’ preferred choice for sustainable construction solutions. Not just a reliable supplier, but a visionary partner. A business that can add value at every stage - of any project. From the construction of sustainable housing and intelligent buildings, to rebalancing our energy mix and reinventing our transport network. Today, some of these ideas only exist on paper. But, if we work together - it’s all possible.

Constructive thinking. Tarmac. 0800 1 218 218 TARMAC.COM www.enquire.to/spec - ENQUIRY 1

The bigger we think today... ...the better we can build tomorrow

To view the new Knauf Facades Design Service video, visit www.knauf.co.uk

Constructing sustainable buildings for the future

Knauf Steel Framing Systems (SFS)

Providing durable and lightweight solutions for external walling, the SFS stud and track system allows for complete design freedom and the ability to add various external finishes, including rainscreen cladding, brick cladding and Knauf renders.

Combining high system performance with excellent sustainability credentials, Knauf SFS is a cost-effective solution for a wide range of projects.

Each system is tailored to the individual project with special design support and advice on hand throughout the development and construction phases.

To find out how Knauf SFS can enhance your next project call 08700 613700 www.knauf.co.uk

Build for the world we live in

The devolution revolution is here Welcome

egional devolution moved a big step closer this autumn through two key announcements.

In the first, Chancellor George Osborne signed a deal with civic leaders from South Yorkshire that will see the region vote for a directly elected mayor in 2017.

Described as the most fundamental shake-up of local government for a generation, the mayor will oversee a range of powers devolved from government, giving Sheffield City Region the power to use new funding to boost local growth and invest in local manufacturing and innovation.

Communities Secretary Greg Clark says that devolving power from Whitehall to town halls is essential for rebalancing the economy: “This deal ensures local leaders have direct control over the city’s future to drive local economic growth, attract investment from leading businesses and create thousands of new skilled jobs.”

But this was a mere taster for the “devolution revolution” announced during the Chancellor’s main speech at the recent Tory conference.

Core to the plan is allowing local authorities to keep the local business rates they collect, instead of handing the tax revenue to central government.

“The way this country is run is broken,” said George Osborne. “People feel remote from the decisions that affect them. Initiative is suffocated. Our cities held back. There’s no incentive to promote local enterprise.”

Under the Chancellor’s proposals, by the end of the Parliament, local government will be able to retain 100 per cent of local taxes –including all £26 billion of revenue from business rates – to spend on local government services. This includes housing, transport, planning and policing.

In return, the government will phase out local government grants altogether, leaving councils dependent on the taxes they raise. That of course may not be good news for all; some have suggested that rather than rebalancing the national economy it will simply trigger a “race to the bottom” in struggling areas.

But responding to the announcement, Cllr Gary Porter, chair of the Local Government Association, said that the announcement is great news for councils: “Business rates should be a local tax set by local areas. It is right that all of the money is retained by local government and this will be a vital boost to investment in infrastructure and public services.”

At Specification we have observed the support for devolution gaining momentum and this is clearly a major step forward. There are many advantages and benefits on paper, let’s hope that the detail of the policy will enable these to be achieved. If properly implemented it will have a major impact on economic development, promoting a surge of investment in housing and regeneration.

DAVID STILES // PUBLISHER

More than meets the eye

Machines of mass potential.

Keeps customer loos running like clockwork.

Multiple showers in the gym? No sweat.

No stopping, from first to last orders in the Café Bar.

Can cook up a storm in any kitchen.

Gets to work in the office.

Because Saniflo works where convention doesn’t, our powerful new Sanicubic® XL lifting station can help you take on any commercial project and win. With up to 5 inlets, a 120 litre tank volume and 40m3/hour of pumping power, it’s got incredible potential. Just think of the possibilities. Visit saniflo.co.uk

Vertigo fibre cement range from Marley Eternit signals the start of an exciting new chapter for UK architecture.

highly flexible product that enables continuity between roof and facade, allowing architects to express their creativity like never before. And thanks to it’s invisible fitting and range of colours, it can respond to any architectural challenge, meaning you can create something truly inspirational and unique to the UK.

ANS Global installs Europe’s tallest indoor living wall

Living Wall specialist, ANS Global, has installed the tallest indoor Living Wall in Europe at Great Western Quarter for Barratt Homes in London.

A team of five abseilers were specially trained in order to ensure all 11,000 plants were installed correctly. The Living Wall measures 4 x 28 metres (112m²) and runs up all eight floors of the building.

Scott Anderson, Sales Director at ANS Global, explains: “The wall is being maintained by our abseiling team, as well as benefiting from a remote control irrigation system integrated into the structure which is controlled from our head office in West Sussex.

“There is an irrigation pipe every half a metre, so that the plants get equal attention and the wall remains looking healthy all over. Our abseiling team also carry out general cleaning duties including dusting and trimming the plants.”

Spectus blend into a city’s industrial heritage

The Sillavan Way development in Salford, Greater Manchester, has fulfilled the local authority’s aspiration for a landmark feature at a main route into the city centre.

With nearly 600 casement windows and more than 100 pairs of French doors in the Spectus Elite 70 bevelled system, the second phase of the project was awarded to Worsley Glass by executive developer Renaker on the strength of the quality and service the Spectus fabricator had delivered on phase one.

To complement the brick of both the new and old buildings, RAL 7016 anthracite was chosen for the exterior of the frames, with

white inside. With the tallest block rising to 17 storeys, weather tightness was integral to the specification, especially on the upper floors. Acoustic glass was also used on some elevations. The windows and doors achieve a U-value of 1.2.

Construction charity launches #notjustforboys campaign

Construction Youth Trust has launched a new campaign aimed at encouraging young people to look at careers in the built environment.

Particularly focusing on changing the misconception that construction careers are aimed only at men, the campaign aims to get young people talking about which careers are best for them. The charity is hoping more young women will start to look at the hundreds of careers options the industry has to offer too.

Working with young people between the ages of 14-30, Construction Youth Trust provides access to training and employment to those who lack adequate entry level training, where there is a local skills need, in deprived communities and with specific social groups.

Construction Youth Trust Executive Director, Christine Townley said about the campaign: “We want to get everyone talking about careers in construction. The industry has a great opportunity to inspire and recruit the next generation of tradesmen, tradeswomen and professionals and we need to show them that women can succeed in the industry.”

Construction Youth Trust have joined forces with CITB and their Go Construct campaign to ensure young people have all the resources they need to get their career started.

THINK THE NATURAL CHOICE CLAY

The Architects Choice

Birmingham Library

The pavers were chosen for their striking colours and are in keeping with both the surrounding paved area and the building’s aesthetic. This combination was used to create the ‘red line’ to lead pedestrians into Centenary Square the use of clay provides a distinct colour that will be retained for the life span of the paver.

The Future of Facades

Steel windows add timeless aesthetic to townhouse

As part of the refurbishment of his own Victorian town house in Primrose Hill, North London, a property developer opted to replace a large ‘wall’ of sliding aluminium doors with an impressive contemporary screen formed of three pairs of steel doors manufactured and installed by Steel Window Association member, Steel Window Service and Supplies.

Fitted in an extension built some ten years ago to the lower ground floor as a kitchen, the doors now serve a study and open onto a patio area leading to the garden.

The new doors, although modern, are more in keeping with the style and proportions of the building, offering the timeless quality that steel windows can bring.

Steel Window Service and Supplies provided the doors which were manufactured using W20 sections which provide narrow profiles and excellent sightlines.

Tobermore helps colour new school

As the first of its kind in Wales and costing a cool £48 million, Penarth Learning Community has been described as a new ‘super school,’ bringing mainstream and specialised educational needs together under one roof.

A broad selection of paving products from world class manufacturer Tobermore, are showcased on the expansive school grounds.

The landscape design is one of the many unique features of the school as a combination of Tobermore’s Shannon and Tegula block paving and Textured Flags have been installed in a variety of vibrant colours, with some areas even designed with interesting mixed colour patterns.

Award-winning Lens House with Corian® façade by ABA, photo Jake Fitzjones

DECC Minister praises award-winning project

An award winning housing association project to help tenants save money on energy bills continues to garner praise; this time from Lord Bourne of Aberystwyth, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC).

Burton-based Trent & Dove Housing has been working in partnership with British ground source heat pump manufacturer, Kensa Heat Pumps, to install ground source heat pumps (GSHP) to nearly 200 rural sheltered properties scattered across East Staffordshire.

At a visit to a home in Burton upon Trent which has recently undergone a GSHP installation under the second phase of the project, Lord Bourne expressed his admiration for the scheme, made possible largely due to the innovative way it accesses streams of government funding. The system approach utilised by this scheme is recognised by DECC and Ofgem as a ‘micro heat network’ and qualified the project for Energy Company Obligation (ECO) funding, and 20 years of income via the Non-Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI).

Modern kaleidoscope of glass inspired by designer

The designers of the new headquarters for Stoke-on-Trent City Council, a building that will be the heart of the new Smithfield leisure and cultural quarter, wanted to create a landmark that combined modern design with references to the rich history of pottery manufacturing in the city.

The resulting building is a vibrant kaleidoscope of coloured glass inspired by the work of world-renowned ceramic artist Clarice Cliff, who was born and worked in Stoke-on-Trent.

Five colours, green, blue, red, yellow and white, all drawn from the colour pallet of Clarice Cliff designs, are arranged along all of the facades in a geometric pattern reminiscent of the potter’s most iconic pieces.

Michael Metcalfe, commercial sales manager at Pilkington said: “Because we needed maximum brightness, we digitally screen printed the colours onto face two – the inside of the outer sheet of glass. We also used Pilkington Optiwhite low-iron glass for the outer pane, which has a higher level of clarity and therefore allows the colours to be seen in their truest form.

“We then gave the colours a further boost by ensuring that the application was completely opaque, and this was done by applying a second layer of ceramic paint to the inside of the glass.”

The units that make up the façade all needed to be custom designed and manufactured to deliver the required pattern. An advanced glazing system supplied by German manufacturer Schüco was used, which allowed the façade to be constructed off-site in 3m by 1.5m sections.

Driving the healthy building debate

RE has not only chosen to be a Research & Innovation Partner of Ecobuild, being held at London’s ExCeL in March 2016, because it remains the industry’s leading event. With the conference programme aligning with several of BRE’s key themes it gives us a platform for collaboration to ask questions of the industry and drive the debate forward.

at what the next generation will need from healthy buildings which contribute to healthy communities.

In light of this, as well as looking at the success of current practice in areas such as the creation of healthy buildings for a healthy workforce, the conference will debate how to improve standards for the future. Day two of the conference is focused on architecture and includes a key session looking at commercial buildings which are productive as well as inspiring. The following day’s programme content will in turn look

While external appearance is important for the prestige of owners and occupiers of offices, arguably of much greater importance is the effect which the internal environment has on its employees. There are well established criteria for healthy buildings such as controlled natural light, good air quality, thermal comfort and acoustics, views and thoughtful ergonomics. How architects, designers and specifiers can bring all these elements together to bring tangible bottomline benefits will be a key theme at Ecobuild.

A 2014 World Green Building Council survey of sustainable new buildings globally found that on average factors like reduced absenteeism and sick days led to an increase in productivity of 4%. Healthier buildings aid staff motivation by offering benefits such as a mix of ‘active’ spaces offering connectivity and facilitating creative collaboration with quieter areas.

BREEAM, the most widely used standard for achieving healthy buildings globally, is successfully used by design teams wishing raise the bar and deliver commercial projects which offer true wellness. The standard takes an in-depth approach incorporating detailed aspects like VOC emissions and how far users can control their environment within its nine key sustainable building criteria.

Although achieving the standard inevitably adds upfront cost (1%-2% additional to Building Regulations specification in the case of ‘BREEAM Excellent’) the return

on investment possible from productivity gains can pay for this many times over. A small improvement in absenteeism can make a major difference to the wage bill, and for building owners costly vacant space is minimised, because BREEAM rated office buildings tend to get rented out quickly. BREEAM can also provide a useful tool during procurement for helping communication across stakeholder groups with different levels of technical knowledge, and for balancing out competing sustainability factors as a project progresses.

The headquarters of the organiser of Ecobuild UBM is a striking example of a successful office environment which works well for its employees. 240 Blackfriars, a 90mtr glass building next to London’s South Bank, is BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rated and provides an inspiring environment with an airy top floor atrium space and discreet meeting areas. Its healthy building credentials also include roomy 1 person per 8m2 occupancy and chilled ceiling air conditioning.

Ecobuild has always been and remains an important vehicle for promoting BREEAM to the industry, with the event continuing to attract over 40,000 industry professionals from across the supply chain. We look forward to a successful collaboration with the event across the three days to bring the issue of healthy buildings to the fore.

For further information about Ecobuild 2016 which takes place from March 8-10 at ExCeL, London please visit www.ecobuild.co.uk.

BRE IS PARTNERING WITH ECOBUILD TO FURTHER THE DEBATE ON IMPROVING FUTURE BUILDING DESIGN TO ACHIEVE HEALTHIER BUILDINGS. GAVIN DUNN, DIRECTOR OF BREEAM, BRE EXPLAINS

Green credentials improved for Welland Primary School

During the initial stages of the design development, a simple palette of materials was specified on the basis of their ecological, sustainable and ‘Green Guide’ credentials. Comprising of facing brickwork, render, aluminium, glazing and the green roof, the aesthetic of the materials was also a significant factor in the selection process as it was important the school had a strong visual appearance. In tandem with the natural ‘living’ green roof, the project incorporated other sustainable initiatives including a rainwater harvesting system, photovoltaic panels, sun pipes, wind catchers and a biomass boiler using recycled pellets.

The decision to add a green roof to

the building came easy because of its ability to deliver a greater thermal performance and roof insulation. While preventing heat loss during winter, the combination of plant processes (photosynthesis and evapotranspiration) and soil processes (evapo-transmission) help to reduce the amount of solar energy absorbed by the roof membrane. This leads to cooler temperatures beneath the surface during summertime.

Externally to each classroom, the glazed green roof is supported by a series of columns and beams that connect back to the main structure. This design feature offers perhaps the most eye-catching aspect of the build since it means the roof lights enhance the natural daylight and brighten the internal ‘street’ and some of the internal rooms.

Creating a definitive break between roof and wall, the edges of the ‘green roof’ are finished with a deep profiled polyester powder coated aluminium fascia and verge detail finished in dark grey. Across the

elevations, a homogenous colour scheme is provided as a result of the colours of the external fabric complementing the hues of the sedum plant mix.

The project has also received an Award at the Local Authority Building Control (LABC) East Anglia Building Excellence Awards in April 2013, won the Peterborough Development and Environment Awards’ Construction category of Best Technical Innovation/Sustainability project for ‘Best Education Building’, and was put forward for a LABC National Award.

WHEN PETERBOROUGH CITY COUNCIL INITIALLY SOUGHT TO BUILD WELLAND PRIMARY SCHOOL, THEY WERE DETERMINED IT SHOULD ACHIEVE A BREEAM VERY GOOD RATING. REALISING EARLY ON THAT MEETING THE COUNCIL’S REQUIREMENTS CAN ONLY BE ACHIEVED THROUGH VALUE ENGINEERING, CONTRACTOR KIER EASTERN TURNED TO ARCHITECTS WOODS HARDWICK.

Woods Hardwick – Enquiry

CPD FOCUS

IKO’S NEW CPD ON ROOFING MEMBRANES & COLD APPLIED LIQUID SOLUTIONS

IKO PLC introduces its new RIBA-approved CPD on High Performance Roofing Membranes & Cold Applied Liquid Solutions. The seminar includes advice on choosing the right insulation for purpose and the benefits of specifying two different waterproofing systems for the same project. There is also guidance on the use of system accessories and advice on workmanship as well as best practice information on the responsibilities of the specifier. The seminar fits into the RIBA Core Curriculum ‘Design, construction, technology and engineering’ and is aimed at architects and specifiers with a ‘general awareness’ knowledge level.

NEW RIBA ACCREDITED CPD SUPPORTS SPECIFIERS IN ACCOMMODATING THE ELDERLY AND VULNERABLE

Karndean Designflooring has released its latest RIBA-approved CPD for architects and specifiers looking to consider the elderly and the vulnerable when designing new spaces. Entitled ‘Inclusive Flooring Design: Where Form and Function Meet Legislation’, the long awaited CPD is set to inform and inspire specifiers designing flooring in environments where the visually impaired, patients with dementia, and the elderly will be present. The curriculum will cover key topics such as reducing the risk of slipping, complying with the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) and guidelines for product selection, maintaining hygienic floors and environmental benefits.

GRG – Glass Reinforced Gypsum, column casings are a modern alternative to traditional methods of providing an aesthetic casing around unsightly structural columns. Rydeale Interiors’ GRG casings are manufactured using a range of hard casting plasters hand laminated with multi layers of glass fibre matt for reinforcement, resulting in casings giving a perfectly smooth and highly durable surface finishfree from trowel marks usually associated with hand finished plasterwork. The casings are class O non-combustible and although will withstand a degree of humidity, should essentially be designed for internal use only.

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UMBRIS BY IQ GLASS

Umbris Louvre Roofs are a fully bespoke contemporary solar shading solution from IQ Glass, perfect for modern design projects. The aluminium louvre roofs contain fully automated louvres, able to create a sunny or shaded external area. In November 2015 IQ Glass will be announcing the opening of the Umbris Zone – a dedicated area of their architectural glass showroom in Amersham which will showcase the Umbris Louvre Roof in all its glory. The external space will be used as a meeting and CPD venue for IQ Glass and the Umbris product.

VIESSMANN LAUNCHES CIBSE-ACCREDITED CPD COURSES ON INDUSTRY HOT TOPICS

A one day programme providing credits towards consulting engineers’ and architects’ CPD. The seminar will be delivered at Viessmann’s Telford head office from August and on site, within specifiers own offices as lunchtime training sessions. All three of the new courses are accredited by The Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE), who promotes CPD as a systematic maintenance, improvement and broadening of knowledge and skills and investing in professionals’ futures and development.

SIMONSWERK’S DOOR SPECIFICATION CPD

SIMONSWERK RIBA approved CPD will provide Architects with the technical knowledge for specifying the correct hinge for the right application. The presentation offers guidance on Door Specification, Legislation, Building Regulations, Fire & Safety in use, CE marking –MANDEC and the Equality Act. SIMONSWERK manufactures high quality brass, aluminium and stainless steel hinges for doors, windows & conservatories. Ranges include the outstanding fully concealed TECTUS system and the increasingly popular TRITECH solid brass hinge with concealed bearings and load capacity to 160kg.

GRG CAST PLASTER CIRCULAR COLUMN CASINGS DIRECT FROM THE MANUFACTURER

Creative freedom! What drives me the most?

Our strongest drive: GEZE Powerturn

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VERTIGO –Bringing a new dimension to fibre cement slates

A NEW RANGE OF FIBRE CEMENT SLATES, SPECIFICALLY DESIGNED FOR VERTICAL APPLICATION, IS HELPING ARCHITECTS TO CREATE MORE AMBITIOUS AND STRIKING FACADES.

Vertigo is an innovative architectural facades system from roofing and facades manufacturer, Marley Eternit, specifically developed to give more flexibility to specifiers and designers who want to use fibre cement slates across the whole building envelope.

The first of its kind in the UK, Vertigo consists of small 600mm by 300mm slate like panels which can be quickly fixed onto battens, with the desired amount of insulation in between. The fibre cement slates perfectly adapt to the contours of the building, providing a second protective skin which enables visual and performance continuity between roof and facade, creating a complete and beautiful building envelope.

Charlotte Hughes, product manager, from Marley Eternit, explains: “An increasing number of architects are specifying vertical slates to create striking designs, with notable projects such as the Garden Studio by Moon Architecture and the Tally Ho police training centre in Birmingham by Nicol Thomas. However, we have introduced a more innovative method of vertical slating to the UK market, with invisible fixings to provide clean lines and a modern aesthetic.

“Vertigo is the first range of fibre cement slates specifically designed for use on vertical facades, opening up a host of unique creative possibilities for architects. Perfect continuity between the roof and facade can be achieved by using it in combination with our Birkdale or Rivendale fibre cement roof slates.”

Lightweight, weather and temperature resistant and available in eight different colours from blue/black to terracotta, the innovative range of Vertigo slates can be used to create beautiful, distinctive and elegant vertical cladding solutions for a full range of building types.

As well as new build, Vertigo offers an excellent aesthetic and protective solution for renovation work where facades can be regenerated and insulated in an elegant, original and effective way without impacting on the interior surface of the building, or causing disruption to the occupants. Existing buildings with irregularities in the walls can also be corrected at the same time as being radically improved and given real added value. The slates are suitable for use on masonry panels and walls made of brick or block work, pre-cast concrete walls and wooden framed constructions.

As well as invisible fixings, the Vertigo slate range also has three different installation methods to give more design flexibility and freedom for architects. The first approach is the traditional method of installation which gives a natural slate appearance with slate hooks, the second option is broken bond, where panels are staggered to give a close boarded effect and the third option is a panel installation, where regular bond panels give geometric precision.

Charlotte Hughes continues: “We are increasingly seeing the use of fibre cement throughout the whole building envelope and we know architects are always looking for new ways that they can use the material to help them achieve their designs. The launch of Vertigo is another example of how our

research and development teams are pushing the boundaries of fibre cement, taking its design flexibility to a different level and opening up new possibilities.

“Each building is unique and we have designed the Vertigo range to respond to the huge scope of architectural requirements for both new build and renovation, aesthetically and in terms of performance. This makes it easier for architects to use fibre cement in new ways and create imaginative yet cost effective facade designs that blend seamlessly with the roof.”

As part of Marley Eternit’s fibre cement range, Vertigo boasts superb sustainability credentials, helping to achieve environmental credits with a ‘very good’ BES 6001 Responsible Sourcing accreditation and its own Environmental Product Declaration (EPD). Fibre cement also offers sustainability benefits throughout its whole life cycle, as it can be fully recycled at the end of its use. Waste fibre cement can be ground down

and used to replace limestone and shale in clinker production, the essential ingredients for Portland cement.

To help specifiers with the modelling process, Marley Eternit has developed free to download BIM components for Vertigo, which can be accessed via its online BIM Space at www.marleyeternit.co.uk/ Resources/BIM

For further information on our range of products and services just ask ME at www. marleyeternit.co.uk/vertigo or call ME on 01283 722588. You can also follow ME on Twitter @MarleyEternit. If it matters to you it matters to us, that’s why with ME it’s all about you.

Marley

Targeting permeability

WHEN THE ENGINEERS FOR A LARGE RETAIL DEVELOPMENT IN HIGH WYCOMBE NEEDED AN INNOVATIVE SUSTAINABLE DRAINAGE SOLUTION FOR THE CAR PARKING AREAS, TARMAC WAS ON HAND TO DELIVER.

When there is water on the ground, conventional drainage systems can struggle to cope, sometimes resulting in standing surface water and localised flooding. Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) are tackling the problems faced by conventional drainage systems as they are designed to be sympathetic to the environmental setting and the surrounding community by controlling rainwater, attenuating flows and regulating discharges.

Consulting engineers Pick Everard approached Tarmac early on in the planning phase to help them deliver a permeable pavement solution across the 2,800m2 parking area of a new superstore in High Wycombe.

Jon Weston at Pick Everard explains: “Where ground conditions allow, permeable surfaces are a practical way to meet the ever tightening surface water control requirements. More importantly, they provide like-for-like drainage characteristics when building on green spaces and can provide an

improvement on brownfield sites. This allows us to maintain the natural management of our water resource, reducing flooding and improving conditions on the retail development for customers by eliminating standing water.”

Planning the project

Prior to this project, the majority of the site’s impermeable surfacing was drained via gullies to chamber soakaways located throughout the existing car park footprint. This approach was not considered appropriate for the new development, as the client required a solution that would utilise sustainable drainage principles to deliver improved quality of water runoff, as well as better control over the volume discharging from the redeveloped site.

During the planning process, a ground investigation was undertaken with full soakaway tests to BRE 365 standard. The results indicated that a full SuDS solution could be utilised for draining the proposed development. Pick Everard’s solution was to install Tarmac’s fast draining concrete pavement solution, Topmix Permeable. This

is a homogeneous mix with predictable permeability and a void content of up to 35%, yielding a drainage rate of up to 1,000l/m2/min.

The decision was taken to install the product overlaying a permeable sub base to both the upper and lower car parking areas providing attenuation during heavy rainfall events whilst the surface water runoff infiltrated to ground. The proposed site levels were designed to ensure that any overland flooding that may occur during a one in 100 year storm event (including a 20 per cent allowance for climate change) would be collected in non-sensitive areas away from the retail store. Safe egress routes were also included within the site layouts to ensure that the effects of surface water flooding on staff and customers will be at a minimum.

Creating the space

Construction began in October 2014 and the team immediately came up against challenges with the seasonal weather. Craig Burgess, Tarmac’s Project Development Manager, explains: “Starting any project

later in the year presents its own unique challenges due to the increased amount of groundwater present on site. Topmix Permeable is very easy to install, so whenever there was a break in the weather, we were able to make substantial progress. The close relationship we had with our client was key because it meant there was clear, open and consistent communication between all the teams involved. It was a critical element in ensuring that the project was delivered on time to the high specifications of the client despite these challenging conditions.”

Local topography meant that the team adopted a different approach for the combined pavement and drainage design on the upper and lower car parks. The 1,817m2 upper car park was to be used exclusively by cars and was entirely surfaced with a 150mm layer of permeable concrete. This was laid over a 350mm sub-base layer of 20mm single sized aggregate which sits on a geotextile membrane. “The drainage on the upper layer of the car park is excellent, as the ground is made of highly fissured chalk. The designers

were able to take advantage of the already high infiltration rate of 3.7m/hr that was recorded in the soakaway tests undertaken for this area, as well as an available storage volume of 636m3,” explains Burgess.

“Although infiltration rates in the 1037m2 lower parking area were not as favourable as the upper level due to the soil based clay ground structure, they were still well above the national average at 0.163m/hr.”

Jon Weston at Pick Everard adds: “Topmix

Permeable concrete provided higher flow rates through its structure compared with other permeable surfaces. As the infiltration rates of the underlying ground were so good, using a surface with a very good drainage rate made perfect sense.”

Installation and project management

The concrete was installed by a Tarmac’s Special Concrete Installations team, who were on hand throughout the project to offer expertise and to ensure that the installation was successful. “A benefit of Topmix Permeable is that it is a single layer construction. Combined with the fact that no movement joints are needed in the surface, we were able to use our solution to help our client reduce the overall build schedule.”

To achieve an effective cure, a polyethylene membrane was laid onto the surface of the concrete and left in place for seven days, until concrete hydration was virtually complete. The final stage of the process was the application of a proprietary surface hardener, which was then left for only seven days before the surface could tolerate traffic. “When we tested the material following

completion, I found the way that Topmix Permeable deals with excess water is far superior to standard block paving,” continues Jon Weston, “The amount of water that the product can deal with in a short time is impressive, keeping the areas dry and clear.”

Through early engagement, Tarmac and Pick Everard could work together to establish the individual requirements of the site, moving the design away from traditional block paving to deliver a bespoke Topmix Permeable concrete solution. By using this innovative product, Tarmac and Pick Everard were able to deliver a car park surface with reliably fast and predictable permeability rates, providing tangible benefits, not only for the client, but also for consumers by eliminating standing water on site.

Tarmac

An educational opportunity…

MAJOR CONTRACTORS ARE DOING VERY NICELY AS THE SECOND PHASE OF THE GOVERNMENT’S PRIORITY SCHOOL BUILDING PROGRAMME KICKS IN. BUT UNDER PROPOSED PROCUREMENT CHANGES, SMES COULD SOON BE GETTING IN ON THE ACT TOO.

Judging by the recent spate of contract awards, activity is ramping up on the second phase of the government’s Priority School Building Programme, which allocates funding for the period 2015-2021. The government has so far committed £6bn investment to the six-year period, with £4bn allocated up to 2018. Under PSBP2, government will fund rebuilding and refurbishment projects across 277 schools.

The programme’s second phase is a continuation of the original £5bn PSBP programme, run through the Education Funding Agency (EFA), which covered 2011 to 2015.

EFA claims schools are being developed faster and cheaper under the Priority School Building Programme than they were under Labour’s Building Schools for the Future (BSF). It says that with BSF it took around three years for construction work to begin, compared with one under PSBP - and that costs are around a third less.

Unlike BSF, the programme targets principally relatively small-scale improvement works and is geared around “allocating funding to the schools that need it most”.

But the scheme is not without its critics: the National Federation of Builders has been waging a campaign for several months calling on government to scrap the existing regional schools framework, under which work has been awarded almost exclusively to national contractors.

Courtesy of Gerflor

HELPING TO NURTURE THE IDEAS FOR TOMORROW.

THE BENEFITS OF NATURAL VENTILATION IN SCHOOLS.

Educational buildings need to be places where innovation is encouraged and the correct environmental messages need to be delivered so that they can be transported to future generations. Unlike office buildings which focus mainly on the welfare and productivity of its occupants an educational buildings aim is largely how they are able to teach and educate its occupants.

It is becoming more common that educational buildings are being designed as ‘green buildings’ to be used in the curriculum to help develop environmental understanding or as a means of testing or development of new technologies.

And, like schools we want to educate with our system selector that we are developing and testing products all the time to ensure what we offer is the absolute best system for the right application. See for yourself how sense, spirit, aura, status and mood can transform natural ventilation in schools and help increase idea generation.

For more information please visit; www.airolutionuk.co.uk and take a look at our System Selector.

Products and Systems brought to you by the Air Management experts.

Air movement, it comes naturally to us.

Hot Mills School, Learning Zone and Energy Centre

Cardiff & Vale College

Manage the air quality of your building.

NFB claims the procurement process failed to adhere to Cabinet Office Procurement Policy Notices and wider regulations that seek to promote SMEs. Perhaps more worryingly, there is growing evidence that existing framework contractors are failing to meet target prices or simply refusing to bid smaller school improvement jobs.

One of key blocks to SMEs is a £25m turnover threshhold for work in the area. Head of Policy and research at the NFB Paul Bogle says: “We have always firmly argued that using smaller building firms for appropriately sized projects would be more cost effective and deliver greater social value in spreading economic growth across the country.”

Steve Hindley, chairman of the CBI Construction Council and chairman of The Midas Group has a similar view: “This new way of procuring schools is a lose-lose system, which favours multinational and centralised national firms with no vested interest in an area, and at the expense of regional firms, who care about, and contribute to, the communities they work within.”

An anonymous contributor to an industry on-line forum said that while the work is

“exactly what we do and we are successful in the marketplace at winning and doing”, the procurement process is making it “pretty much impossible for us to qualify for it”.

Furthermore, he added, now the market has picked up EFA’s supply chain “isn’t interested in doing the work, while those of us who are, are excluded!”

It’s understood a government ‘mystery shopper’ report supports these views and found that the regional frameworks do not comply with government procurement policy.

Although EFA insists it has no plans to re-procure or cancel any projects, in all likelihood a significant rethink on procurement is on the horizon. This could clear the way for smaller building firms to play a greater part in improving the school estate.

Where local firms have been used on smaller school jobs, prices are coming in as much as 30% lower than quotes from the national contractors currently involved in the regional EFA frameworks.

One suggestion is the existing Regional Contractors Framework will be used only for projects valued at up to £6m. This would require

the government to seek EU agreement for public procurement exemption on some school building, perhaps citing the Social Value Act, which widens the scope for awarding work.

There is an interesting alternative approach however, that appears to be gaining credibility: working with procurement specialist Pagabo, South Hunsley School and Sixth Form College in Melton, East Riding of Yorkshire, set up its own framework for jobs ranging from £50,000-£5m.

The South Hunsley Framework offers an equivalent framework that is available to those schools and academies that are “free to choose their procurement route and want to use an alternative to the EFA regional frameworks”.

Jason Stapley, Pagabo procurement director, says that there is a huge gap in the market because SMEs are not being included in frameworks: “We wanted to do something different as schools turn away from EFA and some other frameworks.”

The process is currently being trialled at South Hunsley, where the framework is being used for a planned £10m expansion and maintenance programme over three phases.

Courtesy of Gerflor

The state we’re in Funding allocations within PSBP2 are heavily influenced by a major school condition survey undertaken between 2012 and 2104. EFA divided the work regionally between Capital Symonds, EC Harris (now Arcadis) and Davis Langdon (now AECOM). The resulting Property Data Survey (PDS) covers 18,830 schools, some 85% of schools nationally. This survey excludes schools that have been recently modernised (rebuilt since 2004) or are planned to be renewed or rebuilt under central programmes.

Condition need by region (compared to average)

Table 1: Condition need by building type (compared to average)

Better than average

Post 1976 -33%

Average

Pre 1919 0%

Temporary 1%

Worse than average

1967-1976 11% Inter-war 16% 1945-1966 26%

Table 2: Regional condition variations (compared to average)

Better than average

North West -30% South West -16% Yorkshire and the Humber -12% North East -5% West Midlands -2%

Worse than average

London 5% East Midlands 6% South East 17%

East of England 21%

Case study

School Stock by age

Temporary, 2%

Pre 1919, 13%

Interwar, 8%

1945-1966, 25%

1967-1976, 33%

Post 1976, 30%

School Stock by stage

Age mix of building stock, based on gross floor area

Wates Construction and the Education Funding Agency (EFA) have reached financial close on the £22.8m Little Ilford School in Newham; the first in the Barking, Dagenham and Newham batch of the Priority Schools Building Programme (PSBP).

With construction now underway, the new build project will comprise a 10,703 square

Secondary, 44%

Nursery, 1% Primary, 50%

Other, 5%

Stock condition

Bad, 0.50% Good, 58.80%

Satisfactory, 35% Poor, 5.70%

Based on gross floor area, primary schools account for half the stock, secondary schools 44%

Nearly 60% of the school stock is rated good

To make an enquiry – Go online: www.enquire.to/spec Send a fax: 01952 234002 or post our: Free Reader Enquiry Card

metre four-storey secondary education facility that will see the school increase its capacity from 1,350 to 1,525 for students aged 11 to 16 years. Designed by CPMG, the new building will incorporate a sports hall extension and a multi-use games area. Completion of the project is scheduled for December 2016, following which the former school building will be demolished and replaced with external landscaping.

Mitsubishi Electric

Living Environmental Systems

Mitsubishi Electric has produced a free, CPD-accredited guide to the new Energy Related Products Directive or ErP (2009/125/EC), which is a key part of the European Union’s drive to encourage consumers to use more energy efficient products.

The ErP Directive, which came into force at the end of September, now means that commercial and residential heating products will need to display an energy label, so that consumers can quickly understand the energy efficiency of the products they purchase.

A similar market transformation strategy has already proved highly successful with consumer goods such as fridges and freezers, where it is now very rare to find anything below an A rated product available on the high street.

The Directive is a two-part strategy. Firstly, the ErP requires manufacturers to produce energy-using products that meet stringent minimum performance standards. And secondly, these products

must be clearly labelled using a standard methodology so that consumers can quickly understand the energy efficiency of the products they purchase.

The CPD Guide covers both main parts of the ErP: the EcoDesign regulations and the Energy Labelling regulations. The guide explains how the labelling is designed to help businesses and homeowners understand the benefits of each technology and focuses on the importance of ErP in relation to legislation such as the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI).

Visit http://library.mitsubishielectric.co.uk/ and click on CPD Guides to download a version.

FP McCann precast concrete flooring systems and stair units installed at University Sports Facility

A NEW £10.8 MILLION SPORTS FACILITY IS NEARING COMPLETION AT THE UNIVERSITY OF DERBY’S MAIN KEDLESTON ROAD CAMPUS. THE BREEAM STANDARD CENTRE IS BEING CONSTRUCTED USING LOW CARBON HEAT AND LIGHT TECHNOLOGIES TO MAKE IT HIGHLY ENERGY EFFICIENT, COMPLEMENTED WITH THE USE OF WALLING AND FLOORING PRODUCTS THAT OFFER EXCELLENT THERMAL AND ACOUSTIC PROPERTIES.

FP McCann has supplied in total some 2,150m2 of precast concrete flooring consisting of 80mm deep pre-stressed solid flooring units with exposed soffit (1,105m2) and 200mm deep 200mm deep pre-stressed hollowcore flooring units (1,049m2).

The solid 80mm flooring has been manufactured at the company’s Grantham depot and the 200mm hollowcore panels at Weston Underwood, a short distance from the site. The fair-faced finish to the concrete flooring slabs was critical to allow paint to be applied direct to the exposed surfaces.

Additional to the precast concrete flooring, FP McCann has designed and supplied

both the internal and external stair cases and integral landings cast at the company’s specialist facility at Littleport, Cambridgeshire. No finishing screed is required and the vinyl flooring will be applied direct to the internal stair surfaces.

Main contractor GF Tomlinson has worked closely with both the client and all design and supply partners to ensure best value engineering and environmental solutions have been used on site.

The building includes a green roof and is set into an 8.5 metre embankment supported by a stone gabion wall to allow it to sit naturally into the site. Excavated material has been used to shape and contour access ramps and planting areas.

Commenting on the McCann precast products, Andy Morris, Tomlinson’s project manager says: “The concrete solid fl oors, hollowcore panels and stairs specifi ed as part of the design were supplied to the highest standard.

“In all cases and with little preparation, we have been able to apply the fi nishing paints and vinyl fl oors direct to the surfaces.”

Once finished, the new complex will house an eight badminton court sports hall, gym, dance studio, squash courts and a climbing wall. It will also include a sports analysis lab as well as social and office space.

FP McCann – Enquiry

Solar PV in schools – a live lesson in renewable energy

WITH THE COST OF SOLAR INSTALLATIONS FALLING AND ELECTRICITY PRICES REMAINING HIGH, SOLAR PV IS BECOMING INCREASINGLY ATTRACTIVE AMONGST THE COMMERCIAL AND PUBLIC SECTORS WHERE LIKELY USAGE PATTERNS ALLOW HIGH LEVELS OF SELF-CONSUMPTION. THE MOST COST-EFFECTIVE WAY TO UTILISE ANY PV SYSTEM IS TO USE, WHERE POSSIBLE, EVERY KWH OF ELECTRICITY PRODUCED, REGARDLESS OF ANY FEED-IN TARIFF IN PLACE. ALSO, WITH DIMINISHING GOVERNMENT FITS, OPTIMAL SYSTEM SIZING AND INTELLIGENT ENERGY MANAGEMENT WILL ENSURE SOLAR CONTINUES TO PAY OFF.

Every school has the potential to generate its own renewable energy. Solar is a popular choice as the panels sit unobtrusively on the roof. Developing a greener energy strategy makes substantial savings on electricity bills, significantly cuts CO2 emissions - and what’s morehaving a working example of a solar PV system on-site gives students an exciting opportunity to engage with environmental issues and become aware of renewable energy with real-time data.

A state-funded independent school in Halifax has recently extended its solar installation to maximise the potential of its new stateof-the-art building. The 150 kWp system installed at Trinity Academy uses 600 solar panels and is expected to produce an annual yield of 126,730 kWh, saving approximately 67 tonnes of CO2. David Sheard, Finance Director at Trinity Academy comments: “The academy was designed as a carbon friendly environment with a wide-ranging recycling programme and zero to landfill policy. The solar installation provides another opportunity to highlight the importance of environmental responsibility to our students so that they leave here with an understanding of the benefits of renewable energy.”

The cornerstone to any effective PV system is an efficient inverter(s). The quality of this critical piece of equipment is essential to ensuring the maximum amount of available solar power is converted reliably. As a leading producer of domestic and commercial inverters worldwide, Austrian firm Fronius

is constantly setting new standards with innovative solutions that drive up selfconsumption.

At the heart of the solar PV system at Trinity Academy stand 2 Fronius Agilo central inverters. This unique 75 kW inverter (100 kW version also available) sits between the standard sizes on the market and provides cost savings over string inverters.

“We selected the Fronius Agilo because of the quality of Fronius inverters and their reputation. We also chose the Agilo for the simplicity of its installation and more importantly the reliability of the product,” said Terry Hughes, Solen Energy UK. Through the use of system monitoring, the benefits of sustainability are clearly communicated to the pupils. An internet connection and a simple piece of kit called a Datamanager - fitted as standard on most Fronius products – are all that’s required to graphically display PV data on a choice of free web-based applications. Students can view such information as yield, earnings and CO2 reductions all on a PC, tablet or TV screen. Additionally, a smart meter adds to this data the building’s load curve and selfconsumption percentage.

A useful paper developed by DECC entitled: “Power to the Pupils” contains some useful information on how schools can get started including suggestions for funding: www.gov. uk/government/publications

The Fronius Agilo Central Inverter

Optimum glazing solutions for optimum learning

Kawneer offers you a uniquely comprehensive aluminium facade system range, specifically developed for the educational market by a truly global architectural systems manufacturer.

Our products include a wide variety of high quality curtain wall, window, swing door and sliding door solutions aimed at providing optimum energy efficiency and comfort for the end user. Additionally, our in-house technical and development capabilities ensure we can deliver bespoke solutions to meet the needs of any project.

It all adds up to an unbeatable integrated package for the educational sector.

Kawneer UK Limited

Tel: 01928 502604

Email: kawneerAST@alcoa.com WWW.KAWNEER.CO.UK

Photo: Paul Grundy

New Taralay Impression Control - Safety by Design

IN ORDER TO BREAK AWAY FROM THE UTILITARIAN DESIGNS TYPICALLY ASSOCIATED WITH CONTRACT SAFETY FLOORING, GERFLOR HAS COUPLED ITS TECHNICAL EXPERTISE WITH EXCELLENCE IN DESIGN IN THE CREATION OF ITS LATEST SAFETY FLOORING INNOVATION, TARALAY IMPRESSION CONTROL.

Developed to make a favourable ‘impression’ where both aesthetics and safety are paramount, Taralay Impression Control provides inspirational design, superior slip resistance and outstanding performance within new build and refurbishment projects, whilst being suitable for most contract and housing installations.

Taralay Impression Control is a dual collection comprising an impressive SAFETY IN WOOD and SAFETY IN DESIGN offer of realistic woods and modern designs in contemporary colours that relate to up-and-coming trends. Created by the global vinyl flooring manufacturer’s in-house design and research team, the innovative mix of 24 nature-inspired and creative designs provides specifiers with the breadth of aesthetic choices that they need when formulating interior schemes. This ranges from dynamic to calming effects for differing decorative environments.

“Increasingly we are finding that where a safety flooring solution is needed, looks also count,” said John Hardaker, National Sales Manager (Contract & Sports), Gerflor Limited. “This applies where architects, contractors and endusers must combine the necessary specification criteria with aesthetical requirements in, for example, the education, healthcare, sports & leisure, office, retail, hospitality and housing sectors. We are therefore delighted to introduce new Taralay Impression Control, which showcases our design capability alongside our technical competence in safety flooring.”

Crucially, Taralay Impression Control has the technical qualities of a safety flooring that can be relied upon when it counts: it is slip resistant to ≥36 HSE standards, has a R11 slip resistant rating and has achieved a 20RTMRz micro surface roughness measurement, which indicates a low slip risk in wet conditions.

It is also an exceptionally hardwearing, tough and durable 2mm thick, compact flooring with a 0.70mm thick wear layer and an easy to clean and maintain, hygienic UV cured PUR surface treatment that eliminates the need for waxing and polishing.

In support of the introduction of the new Taralay Impression Control collection, Gerflor has announced that it is running nationwide marketing activities and offering great introductory prices. “As we are eager to share the benefits of new Taralay Impression Control with our customers, we are launching a number of marketing initiatives including a contractor promotion. During the promotional period, contractors can take advantage of price discounts and earn reward points, which are redeemable for big gifts,” said Kenny Miller, National Sales Manager (Distribution & Residential), Gerflor Limited.

One hundred per cent recyclable, Taralay Impression Control is manufactured to Gerflor’s exacting environmental standards and policies, including life cycle analysis, at its ISO 14001 certified production sites.

To find out more, to ask for free product samples or to speak to a specialist about Gerflor’s flooring solutions and complementary interior finishes telephone 01926 622600, email contractuk@gerflor.com or visit www.gerflor.co.uk.

Bespoke product solutions

Whatever the job, whatever the requirements we can deliver exactly what you need.

Pre-tested off site

As our drainage stacks are fabricated off site in factory controlled conditions we can ensure the best joint integrity. With the option of pre-air testing prior to delivery, you can rest assured the drainage system is fit to last.

BES 6001 accreditation for responsible sourcing

Hauraton channels installed at Oldham Academy North

A Hauraton RECYFIX PRO 100 channel system, fitted with FIBRETEC C250, 9mm slot gratings, was used by groundwork sub-contractor Westoak Construction to drain the paved playgrounds and asphalted car parks at the new Oldham Academy North. The FIBRETEC C250 HEELSAFE slot grating was specifically designed by Hauraton R & D engineers to enhance the flow of water into the channel. RECYFIX channel component is made from 100% recycled PE-PP. As the largest unit is only 4.6kg, RECYFIX PRO channelling is easily handle and quickly installed on site.

Hauraton – Enquiry 36

New IKO roof for Perry Hall Academy

IKO plc, a global leader in waterproofing and roofing products, recently completed a project to replace the roof at Perry Hall Academy, a large primary school based in Wolverhampton.

Built in 1949, the school’s roof was showing its age. IKO provided a detailed survey to help the academy with its funding bid. The survey revealed serious problems - leaks, cracks in the mastic asphalt, pooled water and poor heat retention. The school decided to replace the roof and have new rooflights fitted to allow in more natural light.

Working with specifier Denis O’Rourke of Concept Education Services and contractor G Cooper Roofing, IKO delivered a robust, long-lasting bituminous built-up roofing system. Products included IKO enertherm enhanced insulation to improve thermal efficiency and Goldseal Torch-On cap sheet which contains a fire retardant additive for improved fire performance. Pyramid IKO Superlite triple-glazed structural rooflights were also fitted, which are more energy efficient, allow more natural light into the classrooms, and reduce glare and noise.

Kevin O’Connell, IKO’s Business Development Manager, explains: “The Academy needed a roof that could be quickly and safely installed by a manufacturer that could provide comprehensive technical support. Some of the work was completed during term time, so strict security measures were in place to keep pupils and staff safe. This included making sure deliveries arrived before the start of the school day, and that work involving moving large amount of ballast was done over weekends and school holidays.

Polyflor creates a bespoke Expona Flow design for Preston nursery

Polyflor’s new Expona Flow range of high performance commercial flooring was used to create a fun and functional flooring design at Quwwat Islam Education Centre in Preston recently.Seven designs from the Expona Flow range were selected to create the bespoke floor in the corridor of the centre’s Little Sparkles Nursery. The grey Luna and Storm colours were chosen for the base and border of the design floor, whilst the circular designs were created using the brighter Burnt Orange, Flaxen, Steel Blue, Meadow and Plum shades. Polyflor’s Camaro luxury vinyl tiles in White Limed Oak were also installed.

Polyflor – Enquiry 37

Top marks for Bilco Smoke Vents at University of Hertfordshire

Ninety UDF-50 REM Bilco Natural Smoke and Heat Ventilators (NSHEVs) are being installed in a large scale accommodation development at the University of Hertfordshire. All of Bilco’s NSHEV products are manufactured to the highest possible standards, are CE Marked and meet Construction Products Regulation 305/2011. At 1500mm x 1620mm Bilco’s double leaf UDF-50 REM Smoke Vents offer a 1.5m2 clear vent area – making them ideal for dwellings of multiple occupancy such as halls of residence. The UDF-50 REM smoke vent is fully automated and features built in wind deflectors, so in the event of a fire they will open quickly and provide an excellent escape route from the building for smoke and fumes.

Bilco – Enquiry 40

“On the technical side,” continues Kevin, “we had to design and deliver tapered insulation on inverted roofs at short notice, without holding up the overall project. We also made checks to ensure excess water could easily be cleared.”

IKO – Enquiry 38

Expona Flow flooring adds impact to school dining hall

Expona Flow PUR sheet vinyl flooring from Polyflor was chosen by Broad Oak Primary School in Didsbury, Manchester as a hard wearing flooring option. The eye catching Reclaimed Chevron 9830 design from the Expona Flow PUR range features 50 wood, stone and abstract designs in a 2 metre wide sheet format with a 2mm gauge and a 0.7mm wear layer. With an inbuilt herringbone pattern, this Reclaimed Chevron design was chosen to complement the old parquet flooring in the school’s assembly hall. Polysafe Vogue Ultra PUR, a heavyduty safety flooring with a multi-chip decoration, was also installed.

Polyflor – Enquiry 39

Klober roofing airtightness accessories for £4m school

For the £4.3m Sandford St Martin’s 2FE Primary School near Wareham, Michael Lyons Architecture specified Klober Wallint 50 and Solar air barriers in conjunction with Pasto sealant and 400 rolls of airtightness tape. Wallint Solar provided an exceptional vapour resistance of over 500 MNs/g while tapes sealed ceilings, laps and nail penetrations in underlays. Architect Tim Scrace commented: “Having worked with Klober on a previous school in which airtightness was a requirement, I knew their products would help achieve the level required. Our practice takes great pride in its ‘sustainable approach’ so good technical support was particularly important.”

Klober – Enquiry 41

Designed with Specifiers in mind

EDUCATION ESTATES 10-11 NOVEMBER.

hether you are looking at adding new education buildings, considering refurbishing existing buildings or ongoing maintenance work Education Estates is here to help you.

Now in its third year, Education Estates brings together everyone involved in delivering education facilities now, and for the future. The only event of its kind in the UK, covering the primary, secondary and higher education sectors, its success is built on three key elements:

A) The Exhibition features the entire supply chain serving the education sector. It’s a unique marketplace where manufacturers and providers can meet decision-makers and specifiers, make new contacts, generate leads and new product ideas, and identify current and emerging opportunities in the education sector.

B) The Conference features over 60 speakers, with specialist content streams for Schools and Colleges & Universities. Lively and authoritative, it’s THE professional gathering for everyone concerned with education’s built environment.

C) The annual Education Estates Awards & Dinner is a fantastic networking opportunity for exhibitors, speakers, visitors and delegates – and a great night out, too! This year, it will be held in Manchester’s prestigious Midland Hotel.

The Education Estates Exhibition is FREE to ALL visitors and delegates. The Conference is free for all those directly employed in schools, colleges, universities and local authorities.

Education Estates provides a comprehensive and compelling environment for project teams to find inspiration, source products and services as well as making the most of budgets.

Conference sessions include:

• Education Funding Agency Keynote

Address: Rachel Stephenson, Programme Director, Priority School Building Programme, Education Funding Agency, & Mike Green, Director of Capital, Education Funding Agency

• Education Funding Agency Keynote Address - Learning From Schools: Ann Bodkin, Head of Design & Specification, Education Funding Agency

• Transport and Access Issues for School Construction Projects: Tony Dolan, Executive Director, Curtins

• The Class of 2050; A Vision of the Future for UK Schools: Steve Beechey, Group Strategy Director and Managing Director Government Affairs, Wates, & Natasha Porter, Deputy Head, Education Unit,

Policy Exchange

• More For Less, Quicker? Best Value in School Buildings: Michael Buchanan, Education Director, Galliford Try

• Re-Engineering an Institution – The University of Northampton New Campus Development: Jane Bunce, Director of Student and Academic Services, University of Northampton, & Colin Moses, Director, mosescameronwilliams architects

• Case Study – The James Dyson Building, University of Cambridge: Paul Baxter, Partner, Nicholas Hare Architects

Those responsible for designing, building, maintaining and funding our schools, academies, colleges and universities face huge challenges. But wherever they are in the project lifecycle, they’ll find the solutions at Education Estates.

For further information about the event and to register go to www.educationestates.com We look forward to seeing you in Manchester!

CRL Launch NEW Compact-X Sliding Door System

COMPACT-X IS A NEW COMPACT SLIDING SOLUTION FROM CRL FOR FRAMELESS GLASS PANELS, COMBINING LATEST TECHNOLOGY WITH AN ATTRACTIVE MINIMALIST DESIGN. THE SYSTEM IS QUICK AND EASY TO INSTALL WITH DOUBLE SOFT CLOSE, AND SUITABLE FOR CEILING, GLASS, AND WALL MOUNTED APPLICATIONS. COMPACT-X HAS THE ADDED ADVANTAGE OF BEING SUITABLE FOR NARROW DOOR WIDTHS; A MINIMUM OF 635MM.

he COMPACT-X sliding door system offers reliability having been tested to 100,000 cycles in accordance with European performance standards EN1527 and EN1670. In addition, COMPACT-X offers the benefit of vertical adjustment to ease installation, plus the option to create Bi Parting doors by purchasing extra set of clamps. COMPACT-X is available in Brushed Nickel and Satin Anodised finishes and is suitable for glass panels of 8mm, 8.76mm, 10mm, and 10.76mm in thickness and available in 2 and 3 metre kits, and 3 metre kit with a fixed panel option.

Chris Pepper, Marketing & Business Development Manager commented: The COMPACT-X Sliding Door System is an excellent product offering great quality and

value, with a range of benefits such as double soft close, an uncluttered design and easy installation. It’s a ‘stand out’ addition to our Door Hardware range.

CRL

C.R. Laurence (CRL) is the leading supplier to the glazing, railing, architectural, and construction industries. Offering more than 50,000 products, the company serves the industry from locations throughout North America, Europe, and Australia. The company designs, engineers, and manufactures a wide variety of architectural hardware, including commercial and residential architectural railings, hardware for “all-glass” commercial entrances, transaction hardware, and frameless shower door hardware.

The European head office in Rochdale stocks CRL’s extensive product range,

To make an enquiry – Go online: www.enquire.to/spec Send a fax: 01952 234002 or post our: Free Reader Enquiry Card

and also features a large product showroom area. Here, visitors are able to view high quality glazing hardware and accessories, for example glass balustrades, railing systems, locking ladder pulls and shower door hardware. Additional to the product display area, there is a large trade counter and will call area, where customers can visit to collect their orders. Architects and designers alike are all welcome to visit, to view the facilities and the fantastic product range in the display area.

For further information regarding C.R. Laurence and or any other product from their extensive range, contact them on Freephone: 00 800 0421 6144, email crl@crlaurence. co.uk, or refer to www.crlaurence.co.uk

Sea front development benefits from Smart Design

WINDOW AND DOOR SYSTEMS FROM SMART ARCHITECTURAL ALUMINIUM HAVE BEEN USED EXCLUSIVELY THROUGHOUT THE STUNNING NEW ABBEY SANDS DEVELOPMENT IN TORQUAY.

Commenting on the project, Smart Managing Director, Eddie Robinson said: “We were delighted to have been involved with such an iconic development, where modern materials have been used so sympathetically to retain the building’s rich heritage.”

With over 30 years’ experience, Smart Architectural Aluminium has grown to become the UK’s leading aluminium systems supplier, providing standard and bespoke solutions for a wide range of projects across both the public and private sector. With an enviable reputation for quality, innovation, design expertise and technical support, the company’s systems are proven in projects of all size, scale and complexity.

For more information, visit www. smartsystems.co.uk or call 01934 876 100.

Smart Architectural Aluminium – Enquiry 51

Delivered by specialist property development company, Havard Estates, the award-winning scheme occupies a dominant position at the centre of Torquay’s mile long promenade and includes four restaurants, 13 self-catering apartments and 14 residential apartments. Influenced by the modernist and Art Deco styles of early 20th century British seaside architecture, architects Kay Elliott designed a truly elegant and sympathetic building which features curved balconies and glass balustrading to fully exploit the impressive sea views.

Standing just eight metres from the sea front, the new building features a wide range of Smart systems, including the company’s large format Visoglide sliding doors, Smart Wall ground floor treatment and tilt and turn windows, all of which were manufactured and installed by Avdon Bristol Limited, one of Smart’s specialist fabricator and installer partners.

Commenting on the specification of these systems, Jan Tribble, Associate at Kay Elliott said: “We selected the Smart solutions because of their excellent quality and value, which together with the selection of high quality door furniture allowed us to create glazed features to perfectly complement the building’s overall aesthetic.

“Given the building’s coastal location, we specified floor-to-ceiling glazing to exploit the stunning views, with Smart’s 2.5m Visoglide sliding doors providing a feature for each of the apartments, really opening up the external space of the balconies to maximum effect.”

Smart’s standard, marine grade polyester powder coated finish was specified for the MC Wall curtain wall system for the ground floor commercial units, as well as for the Visoglide doors for the apartments above, providing long-life protection for the materials and delivering low maintenance requirements.

Schlüter-Systems hits a six at cricket stadium hotel

THE DESIGNERS OF A NEW FOUR STAR HOTEL AT THE AGEAS BOWL CRICKET STADIUM HAVE SELECTED SCHLÜTERSYSTEMS, THE MARKET LEADER IN ESSENTIAL TILING PROTECTION, TO WATERPROOF AND REDUCE SOUND TRANSMISSION IN THE BATHROOMS OF ALL 171 GUEST ROOMS.

The Hilton at The Ageas Bowl, Southampton, home of Hampshire County Cricket, opened in the spring of 2015 and will cater for thousands of guests every year, meaning its new facilities had to be of the highest quality and durability.

Schlüter–DITRA-SOUND offers superior sound insulation, significantly reducing the sound transmission to adjoining rooms, making it an ideal product for hotels. Additionally the Schlüter-DITRA range of mattings and membranes are designed to waterproof and protect tiled installations from lateral movement, cracked substrates and water penetration, the range also includes the unique underfloor heating system Schlüter–DITRA-HEAT.

EPR Architects’ Nick Rayner, one of the team who designed the Hilton at The Ageas Bowl, said, “Schlüter-Systems is one of a select

The impact sound reduction of 13 dB achieved by Schlüter-DITRA-SOUND means as part of the assembly, it can contribute towards a 50% reduction in airborne sound.

As well as providing acoustic reduction solution in all guest bathrooms, Schlüter–DITRASOUND has also been used in the appropriate staff welfare and disabled access facilities, totalling more than 1’300m2 of Schlüter –DITRA-SOUND throughout the hotel.

Schlüter-Systems – Enquiry 55

Center Parcs success for AkzoNobel

Center Parcs’ fifth UK site at Woburn Forest, Bedfordshire, heavily features products from Blackburn-based AkzoNobel.

Maryport-based West Port Timber Window and Door Technology were awarded the contract by the main contractor ISG to provide the new holiday Village with 4,000 timber windows and 2,000 doors. West Port needed the assistance of AkzoNobel to help them fulfil the high demands of the project.

The coatings solution for this project rested on the expertise of AkzoNobel in supplying two of their hugely popular products which would meet this specification perfectly.

Coastal hotel brings events and conferencing into the 21st century

As part of a modernisation and extension of Headlands Hotel, Torquay, partitioning experts Style was specified to install three Dorma Moveo moveable wall systems, delivering flexibility to the space and maximising the opportunities to host a wide variety of events, meetings and conferences. Working alongside Chillcott Designs, Style was contracted to the moveable walls as part of a significant refurbishment and extension to the Grand Lounge. Replacing a large external window, Style recommended installing a DORMA Moveo glass partitioning wall, ensuring plenty of natural light throughout the Grand Lounge even when areas are divided. For added privacy, the partitions are fitted with integrated vertical-rising blinds. A simple yet brilliantly clever solution, the blinds rise from the bottom, rather than drop from the top, which means privacy can be provided whilst retaining space above eye level for light. Style also installed two sets of DORMA Moveo semi-automatic partitioning systems, further dividing the Grand Lounge for smaller gatherings. Making it quick and easy to divide an area, all three Moveo partitioning systems incorporate semi-automatic technology. As each panel is slid effortlessly into place, an electrical circuit is initiated, automatically expanding rubber seals to precisely the correct level to create a firm seal for wall strength and maximum acoustic privacy of 50dB for the glass system and 49dB for the other two.

Style – Enquiry 57

To make an enquiry – Go online: www.enquire.to/spec Send a fax: 01952 234002 or post our: Free Reader Enquiry Card

few companies which can provide the type of solutions for tile and stone needed for a premier establishment such as a new Hilton Hotel.”

British Ceramic Tile lands major new contract with the Holiday Inn Express

LEADING TILE MANUFACTURER, BRITISH CERAMIC TILE, HAS WON A MAJOR NEW SPECIFICATION WITH HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS OF THE INTERCONTINENTAL HOTELS GROUP.

This significant new specification will see British Ceramic Tile provide tiles exclusively to the fourth generation of Holiday Inn Express hotels over a five year period. Having supplied a comprehensive range of wall and floor tiles to three UK hotels so far, British Ceramic Tile will supply tiles will for all reception, café and public bathroom areas within any new Holiday Inn Express hotels or refurbishment sites.

British Ceramic Tile’s Chief Executive, Tony Taylor, said: “This is a major win for the business and a significant opportunity for growth. The

high profile specification will see the business specify tiles for a large number of Holiday Inn Express sites throughout Europe. We’re delighted to be working with the InterContinental Hotels Group and feel extremely proud to be able to offer such an extensive range of tiles for all their refurbishment needs.”

British Ceramic Tile started working with forpeople early last year, to specify products on behalf of the InterContinental Hotels Group. Portland Grey has been specified in the entrance areas and WC’s. The porcelain material is particularly suited to high traffic areas due to its hardwearing properties. The

Marvel in the Matrix

From the hypnotic and the geometric to the feathery and organic, the brand new Matrix collection by Wilton Carpets Commercial redefines stock narrowloom carpet for pubs and bars.

Illusion grey floor tile can be seen in the café, channeling contemporary style.

Jessica Skelton, Interior Designer at forpeople said: “We were impressed with the quality and design of the tiles British Ceramic Tile could offer us, which is why we chose to work with them. The team worked closely with us to make sure the products specified matched the requirements of the hotel group, and were on hand to provide expertise during the whole process, offering a range of solutions to meet the needs of our project.”

British Ceramic Tile – Enquiry 61

Affinity2 - heavy commercial LVT in a brand new specification

Polyflor has launched the Affinity2 range of high design, heavy commercial luxury vinyl tiles, created to work in perfect harmony with vinyl sheet flooring ranges.Featuring an eclectic mix of 16 authentically reproduced wood plank designs, the 2mm gauge Affinity2 collection offers straightforward installation alongside 2mm vinyl sheet flooring, providing a beautifully seamless flooring solution that flows throughout any commercial installation. The hard wearing Affinity2 collection has been developed for heavy traffic commercial environments in sectors such as retail, leisure, office, housing, healthcare and education. It protects the floor and supports a simple cleaning regime and easier soil release. Polyflor

Layered, refracted and distressed effects join reinventions of traditional damask and a shimmering tile to make Matrix a wonderfully diverse and completely intune collection. A palette of contemporary black, setting off metallic, lime and jade, provides the perfect synergy with the rich, saturated hues of fabrics and furnishings sweeping through the pub and bar sector.

With all designs held in stock for immediate delivery, Matrix is the answer for leisure environments looking for sophistication and style off-the-shelf. In a rugged quality woven axminster that brings luxury and durability, Matrix puts beautiful on-trend carpet in the reach of all pubs, bars and restaurants.

In a blend of 80% pure new wool and 20% nylon and a seven-row construction that will deliver sterling performance, Matrix is designed and made in Britain at Wilton’s factory in Wiltshire. In a 0.91m (3’) width that’s ideal for the often-complex layouts of leisure buildings. This collection features 10 designs, all in colourways designed to work within classic and contemporary environments alike.

Wilton Carpets –

Enquiry 63

Feature preview

THIS MONTH WE TAKE A LOOK AT A VARIETY OF INNOVATIVE PRODUCT AREAS, INCLUDING THOSE IN THE HOTEL, SPORT & LEISURE SECTOR.

Advances in LED display technology are opening up opportunities for smaller sports and leisure organisations to compete with their bigger brothers on an even playing field.

Tony Ford, head of commercial at MD Vision, says new ‘Big Screen’ display technology is opening up opportunities for smaller facilities to up their game.

Equally key for designers is their versatility. Available in three different formats, the latest displays are extremely lightweight – a screen measuring up to 25 square metres weighs little more than 800 Kg for example.

Composed of individual LED tiles, systems can be combined to create impressive displays in either a portrait or landscape format incorporating curved shapes and sharp angles.

“Combined with their slim profile, and the option of pole-mounting or wallmounting this means they can be used anywhere from leisure centres, gyms and school sports facilities to Premier League and Test Match grounds or arenas and theme parks,” he explains.

“Performance is also a major factor. Incorporating full colour graphics and

the ability to stream live TV, video and even text or social media messages, the latest ‘Big Screens’ provide outstanding clarity and long distance visibility. The high brightness of LED displays also makes them uniquely suitable for outdoor use.”

The advanced software that comes with modern LED screens allows messages to be changed very quickly. In addition to benefitting from highly effective scoreboards, leisure and sports facilities are starting to exploit the displays for their revenue generation potential, targeting local businesses for sponsorship.

One such example of shared usage is a school in the west of England that installed a 2 metre square full colour digital display, initially configured to provide an electronic display and time counter and used during half time to show replays to visitors.

The school was subsequently able to recover the cost of the board through a sponsorship agreement with a large sports apparel supplier, which included a branded frame to the screen and promotional slots pre- and post- match and during the interval. In addition, the screen is used extensively in practice to assist coaching by showing video replays from previous games.

Paul Groves reveals what this month’s articles have in store

A sound investment

TECHNOLOGICAL

ADVANCES NOW ENABLE ACOUSTICS EXPERTS TO INTEGRATE DYNAMIC SOUND EXPERIENCES INTO THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT, AS MIKE BEDFORD, PRINCIPAL OF HOARE LEA

INTELLIGENT BUILDINGS EXPLAINS

Soundscape systems can be implemented in a range of forms, and usually feature discrete multichannel output systems, with concealed loudspeakers and often movement of sound. Subtle ambient sound signatures can be created for a built environment, or more concentrated, immersive, highimpact experiences, for art installations for example.

Traditional soundscape implementations tended to be temporary. However, there is an increasing awareness of sound in architecture and a rise in the design of soundscapes as permanent systems, where the infrastructure can be used as an everchanging ‘Acoustic Gallery’ for sound art installations. Content planning for this type of application is crucial to its success. For control interfacing, in addition to scheduling and third party control triggers, soundscape content can also react according to visitor proximity and identity.

To incorporate movement of sound, a bespoke multi-channel system configuration is used to enable 3D space panning techniques to be implemented in the composition. Individual outputs are required for each loudspeaker circuit to enable a different signal to be sent to each unit. This type of immersive spatialisation of sound is being adopted by the film industry with the introduction of the Dolby Atmos and Auro-3D film formats.

Sound systems that implement discrete outputs can also incorporate variable acoustic technology with installed advanced audio processing and tiny 4mm architecturally embedded microphones. This allows the acoustic environment to be reconfigured to accommodate a range of room uses.

Technology can also improve communication allowing for a more natural dialogue. A distributed sound system design with advanced, centralised and networked audio processing allows us to design systems that react to a selected or sensed room use or format.

Sound is picked up through ceilingembedded microphones, which propagate

people’s voices across the room to all listeners using advanced signal decorrelation and control of early acoustic reflections. The quality of the compact components used and capability of live processing allows the technology for sound reinforcement to be embedded into the architecture, effectively making it ‘invisible’ and removing the need for technological barriers such as clip-on microphones.

These developments in networked processing power and system design have led to an evolution of noise masking in open environments and large rooms, allowing the creation of flexible zones of privacy. ‘Acoustic pockets’ are created at the tap of a button from a room touch screen controller. Speech signals generated by conversations within each ‘acoustic pocket’ are detected by tiny integrated microphones in the ceiling, de-correlated (‘mixed-up’) by processing and fed into adjacent areas as a subtle, unintelligible ‘hubbub’, providing a seemingly natural privacy system, which can be reconfigured for a range of room formats. An example system which can be implemented is Meyer Sound Constellation technology.

Such advances in integrated sound technology and responsive building environments enable us to design spaces that are flexible and adaptable to multiple uses. By removing unnecessary user interfaces and technological obstacles, and instead using integrated intelligent technology, we can create user-friendly environments, which have the needs of the occupant at their heart – this is at the core of Hoare Lea Intelligent Building design philosophy.

Case Study: Hoare Lea at the UK Pavilion, Milan Expo 2015

using bespoke programmed, multichannel space panning techniques, driven by an advanced show controller. The programming follows the time of day and night to reflect changes in bee activity, creating a range of listening experiences in the Pavilion. Using live beehive accelerometer data, the design creates self-authoring soundscape content and a connection between listeners and the bees.

“I wanted a simple metaphor to express the importance of what pollinators do,” says artist Wolfgang Buttress. “Pollinators are responsible for 30 per cent of the food we eat and the bee is one of the most important of the pollinators. The quality of the listening experiences produced by the audio systems designed by Hoare Lea is crucial in revealing this metaphor, helping to create a space within the hive in which to think and feel. The speakers sound fantastic – the result has surpassed my expectations. The experience is truly immersive.”

Hoare Lea carried out the design of audiovisual systems for the UK Pavilion at the World Expo 2015, which takes place in Milan from 1 May until the end of this month (October 2015). With more than 140 countries represented and the theme of: ‘Feeding the Planet, Energy for Life’, Milan Expo 2015 is a platform for the exchange of ideas about food, stimulating creativity and promoting innovation for a sustainable future.

Under the title ‘Grown in Britain & Northern Ireland’, the UK’s response is a standout Pavilion, designed by award-winning British artist Wolfgang Buttress. Inspired by pollination and by scientific research developed to monitor the health of beehives by physicist and bee expert Dr Martin Bencsik, the UK Pavilion highlights the crucial role of pollination in our food supply, drawing attention to issues such as food security and biodiversity.

The UK Pavilion has been developed around the concept of the beehive, with visitors following the dance of the honey bee through a series of landscapes. This unique experience starts with a journey through an orchard, followed by a wildflower meadow and on to a giant aluminium sculpture known as ‘the Hive’. This large structure uses light and sound to connect the visitor to the activity of a real bee-hive, immersing the listener in an interwoven, meditative musical composition. The soundscape features musicians who have recorded with

artists including Spiritualized, Sigor Ros, Soulsavers, The Orb, Youth and Spring Heel Jack. Representing a unique dialogue between human and honey bee, it provides a constantly changing ambience.

In developing systems to implement the UK Pavilion’s soundscape, Hoare Lea worked with Wolfgang Buttress, BDP, Stage One, Dr Martin Bencsik, and programmers Robin Whittaker (TiMax show control) and Andy Coates (feature lighting).

The lattice structure of ‘the Hive’ integrates a 360˚ arrangement of carefully placed loudspeakers. These relay particular sounds and triggered musical parts in direct response to the live behaviours of honey bees in beehives located 870 miles away in Nottingham, where a study is developing technol-ogy to monitor the health of bees, and so protect an important part of our food chain.

“Full range active loudspeakers integrated into the hive structure transport sound horizontally and vertically around the listener,” explains Mike Bedford. “The listening experience has been designed with interaction of sound between zones. As the listener approaches the Hive from the Meadow, for example, low frequency ‘bass’ sound energy emanating from the Hive floor builds within the meadow soundscape, adding to the visitor’s sense of anticipation.’

The soundscape is designed to implement movement of sound around the listeners

It’s fair to say that at Recticel we aim to manufacture the highest quality insulation boards, getting as close to perfection as is physically possible. With a super-flat board with an excellent surface finish, high compression strength and precision cut straight edges, our product is ideally suited to the requirements of the construction industry. It’s as close to perfect as we can make it.

Facing the future

THE REFURBISHMENT OF SOCIAL HOUSING IS A PRIME EXAMPLE OF HOW EMPLOYING THE PRINCIPLES OF SUSTAINABILITY IN THE SELECTION OF MATERIALS, INCLUDING THE BUILDING FAÇADE, CAN HAVE A POSITIVE IMPACT IN ALL THREE AREAS AND CHANGE PEOPLE’S LIVES FOR THE BETTER.

ying to the north east of Manchester city centre, Collyhurst houses some of the most deprived communities in the country.

As part of a wider regeneration scheme, four 1960’s council blocks were extensively refurbished, both inside and out. Social landlords Northwards Housing collaborated with main contractors Manchester Working Ltd on the ambitious retrofit of Humphries, Roach, Mossbrook and Vauxhall Court, including structural repairs and the fitting of new windows, roof covering, insulation and ROCKPANEL Chameleon façade cladding.

ROCKPANEL Group spent three days with tenants going through the benefits of the thermal upgrade, as well as looking at the choices of the various finishes that were on offer for the boards. Computer Generated Images were created and printed onto mood boards with samples of the different products to help tenants to visualise how their building might look. This helped to engage the tenants’ interest in selecting the finish THEY wanted for the tower blocks they live in. The choice of boards was put to a democratic vote by the tenants only, as was the decision as to whether to include solar panels.

The chosen boards feature a unique crystal layer which makes them shimmer and seamlessly change colour depending on the angle of view or level of natural light.

The lightweight boards were installed on two sides of the 13 storey blocks by Astley Facades (UK) Ltd. The graceful transition between shades of blue, green and purple form a beacon for regional regeneration which can be seen for miles around.

However, ROCKPANEL products were not solely specified for the aesthetic benefits its products can offer, but also their sustainable credentials. All ROCKPANEL products are produced from naturally occurring basalt rock using a highly efficient manufacturing process which is certified to ISO 14001, and have achieved a Green Guide rating of either A or A+, depending on the installation

method used. The boards are colourfast and insensitive to moisture and temperature, allowing the refurbished blocks to maintain their eye-catching appearance for years to come.

Paul Maidment, Head of Home Improvements at Northwards Housing discussed the project approach: “As champions of the green agenda, it was important that all products met our sustainability requirements. We prepared a short report on the ROCKPANEL product range and were impressed with the excellent Green Guide ratings they could offer. In addition, the hard wearing, low maintenance design of the ROCKPANEL Chameleon should help to minimise whole life costs.”

Upgrading our existing building stock is an investment in the future. It is crucial that it is done in a way that maximises the benefits, and minimises the impact of the materials used. The thoughtful specification of façade cladding can contribute more to project than simple aesthetics, and can help face the future in a sustainable manner.

Spacetherm - outstanding

performance

for grade II listed theatre

NOTTINGHAM PLAYHOUSE IS A GRADE II* LISTED THEATRE WITH A CONVENTIONAL PROSCENIUM LAYOUT, SEATING AN AUDIENCE OF 770. IT HAS ENGLISH HERITAGE IMPORTANCE, AND IS AN ICONIC LANDMARK, WITH HUNDREDS OF PRODUCTIONS, EVENTS AND EXHIBITIONS TAKING PLACE THROUGHOUT THE YEAR ATTRACTING THOUSANDS OF VISITORS.

The challenge for Gleeds Building Surveying Ltd was to reduce the Playhouse’s energy bills by making the 1960s building signifi cantly more energy efficient – without damaging or altering the building appearance and without disrupting theatre operations. Preserving the authenticity and integrity of the Playhouse needed to be balanced with the demands of modern use.

Each aspect of the works carried out required planning permission, listed building consent and English Heritage’s input and approval. All works were completed within these stringent requirements, incorporated and hidden within the structure, all whilst the theatre was in live operation – no performances had to be cancelledas a result of the works.

The innovative façade design included the use of Spacetherm blanket. 15mm Spacetherm Blanket was used between the Glazing and Board to improve thermal performance of the building. The Spacetherm Blanket consists of unfaced sheets of high performance aerogel composite insulation. The possible applications of the Spacetherm Blanket are virtually limitless as it has been used in doors, shutters, window reveals, boats, swimming pool covers and numerous other applications where thermal performance, space and thickness are critical.

As a result of this work, Spacetherm insulation has provided a 34.30% reduction in heating load which works out a signifi cant cost saving.

The Playhouse’s charitable education activities have peen protected by slashing energy bills enabling those monies to be spent on core activity not energy bills. Indicative readings from December show that it has already cut usage by 30% before the system is fully calibrated and 100% operational.

A

Proctor Group – Enquiry 68

Find

additional space

By releasing space from within the walls, you could be unlocking investment potential for your clients in commercial real estate.

Combined acoustic floor deck solution has integrated Nu-Heat warm water underfloor heating

A NEW ACOUSTIC SOLUTION FROM NU-HEAT, PRODUCED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH KNAUF, COMPRISES A PREROUTED KNAUF GYPSUM BOARD BONDED TO ACOUSTIC FIBREBOARD, INTO WHICH NU-HEAT’S 14MM TUBE SYSTEM IS NEATLY INSTALLED.

The tongue and groove panels offer high thermal conductivity allowing a quick transfer of heat into the room and create a stable, monolithic floor finish with minimal movement.

Exceeding Part E, this solution is particularly suited to new build and renovation apartments where an efficient and discreet

underfloor system is required as an integral part of an acoustically secure system that is simple to install.

This tailor-made acoustic UFH system offers heating and floor deck in a single solution over a solid or timber floors, as well as a low profile UFH solution combined with outstanding acoustic properties, exceeding Part E.

There is a minimal height build-up at just 33mm, saving typically 67mm compared to typical acoustic batten solutions and a low weight solution. The new system also represents a sustainable solution, with the gypsum board being made up of a minimum of 60% recycled product and categorised under Knauf Environmental Product Declarations - according to ISO 14025.

Installation is straight-forward directly over a level screed section or structural working deck. There is no drying time, which results in a reduced site programme, and the system provides a high quality fit-andfinished floor section.

Complete Mechanical & Electrical installation design and AcoustiPanel layout drawings can be provided by Nu-Heat.

Nu-Heat – Enquiry 70

Hunter Douglas TechStyle Islands: a lightweight, soundabsorbing ceiling solution

Hunter Douglas has launched a new, lightweight ceiling system that provides superior sound absorption for spaces in buildings with long reverberation times. Developed in response to the need for an affordable, simple and flexible solution for acoustic problems in existing buildings, TechStyle® Islands are strong yet incredibly lightweight. Comprising polyester and glass fibre tiles attached to U-shaped aluminium extrusion profiles, this innovative, easy-to-install product has an open structure and each weighs no more than 3.3 kg/m2 – about 25% less than alternatives. The islands are made of fully recyclable natural materials, do not release any volatile substances, and conform to EN 13501-1.

Hunter Douglas – Enquiry 71

For

Prysmian

Over 5km of FP PLUS fire resistant cable from Prysmian has been installed in Edinburgh College of Art as part of a significant upgrade to fire protection systems in two of the Lauriston Campus buildings.

The combination of Prysmian’s unique enhanced Insudite insulation material with a low smoke and zero halogen outer sheath provide safe, robust performance with flexibility. It is most commonly used for fire alarm and emergency lighting circuits as defined by BS5839 series and BS5266-1 and approved by third parties BASEC and LPCB for this use.

Prysmain – Enquiry 72

Resolving Reverberation Noise within buildings

Reverberation noise is especially common in a building where there are hard surfaces. Sound waves bounce and reverberate against hard walls, floors and ceilings creating noisy environments. Schools are a hot spot for reverberation noise: sports halls, dining rooms, music rooms, classrooms and corridors in particular. Other buildings such as: hospitals, churches, offices, communal areas within residential / multi-purpose buildings frequently have sound reverberation problems too. The solution is to add absorption to the areas that have reverberation noise issues.

Hush Acoustics Absorber Panels for Ceilings and Walls will help to resolve the problem.

Hush – Enquiry 73

art’s sake, it’s got to be

Celotex. The full picture

Just like the camera, Celotex has a long and proud history of continuing to develop new and innovative solutions.

We’ve captured the moment again with Celotex CF5000, our full fill cavity wall solution. The latest addition to our portfolio, CF5000, helps you simplify compliance to UK Building Regulations by achieving a U-value of 0.18 W/m2K, maximising thermal performance without widening the cavity width.

BBA certified, Celotex CF5000 features a mechanically engineered edge profile, eliminating the passage of moisture and allows you to focus on achieving enhanced building performance.

For more information, just click through to celotex.co.uk/thefullpicture

Significantly reduce noise disturbances in habitable rooms with Rytons Super Acoustic LookRyt® AirCore® range. Meet your venting requirements with no running costs and rely on the outstanding soundproofing qualities to provide a more peaceful home environment.

For improved comfort the unique internal panel disperses air evenly into the room and dramatically reduces draughts. As pictured, the panel may be wallpapered or painted any colour for a discreet appearance.

ROCKFON launches their whitest ceiling tile ever: ROCKFON Blanka

AFTER YEARS OF RESEARCH AND TESTING WITH ARCHITECTS AND INSTALLERS, ROCKFON HAS DEVELOPED THEIR SMOOTHEST, WHITEST CEILING TILE EVER: ROCKFON BLANKA.

Aperfectly white ceiling is what architects want, but has been difficult to attain without sacrificing other crucial technical properties – until now. ROCKFON Managing Director, Anders Juhl Thomsen explains why they’ve developed a visibly whiter tile:

“To take suspended ceilings to the next level, we asked our customers what the ultimate improvement would be to them. The architects said they want a ceiling that combines aesthetics - especially whiteness and smoothness - with technical performance, such as fire resistance and acoustics. Installers and building owners look for simple installation and a long lifecycle. Choosing a ceiling shouldn’t be a trade-off between properties, so we decided to create a ceiling that delivers it all in one tile.”

The solution to achieving a whiter than white ceiling was literally out of this world. By applying a specialist coating sourced from the US space industry to a high performance stone wool core, ROCKFON has developed an incredibly durable, matt ceiling tile that is visibly smoother and significantly whiter. The ultra-white ROCKFON Blanka tiles have outstanding light reflection and light diffusion properties to maximise the uniform spread of natural light. Independent tests show that ROCKFON Blanka has a light reflection index above 87% and an L Value of 94.5+, which makes it their whitest ceiling tile ever.

Thanks to this unique coating, the ROCKFON Blanka™ tiles have a smooth surface that allows for easy installation because the tiles are patternless and can be installed in any direction, saving time and reducing waste. Surface durability tests rate ROCKFON Blanka top of its class. The anti-static properties of the coating make ROCKFON Blanka resistant to site dust and the tiles are easy to wipe clean with a damp cloth. The tiles are designed to be hardwearing and can resist up to 100% relative humidity without losing their shape.

ROCKFON Blanka delivers all the unique stone wool performance characteristics you would

expect from ROCKFON including outstanding acoustic performance and fire safety properties. ROCKFON Blanka tiles are produced from up to 42% recycled materials, are fully recyclable and come with a 15 year warranty to ensure building owners a long product lifecycle.

The ROCKFON Blanka range is available in ceiling tiles for sound absorption and sound

insulation as well as a complimentary wall panel range; all in a variety of sizes and edge details to provide architects with complete design freedom.

For more information about ROCKFON Blanka, please visit www.rockfon.com

ROCKFON – Enquiry 76

The easiest wetroom system available

HUSH ACOUSTICS

ACOUSTIC SOLUTIONS

FOR REVERBERATION NOISE CONTROL

Reverberation problems can affect many types of buildings, both new and old. In educational establishments, excessive background noise can adversely affect productivity levels. In hospital wards reverberated noise can cause discomfort among patients.

The solutionHush Absorber Range

Eliminates echoes and sound reverberation

Available in a range of stylish finishes Class A and Class C Absorber Panels using specially formulated acoustic foam

Ideal for schools, hospitals and other public areas

Other absorbing products such as notice boards, desk dividers and baffles are available

HUSH ACOUSTICS

TEL: 0151 933 2026 EMAIL: info@hushacoustics.co.uk www.hushacoustics.co.uk 44 Canal Street, Bootle, Liverpool L20 8QU Offices also based in London and Yorkshire @hushacoustics hushuk.acoustics

Hush_ReverberationAd_QP.indd 1

Cedral specified to create striking new housing development

MARLEY ETERNIT’S CEDRAL WEATHERBOARD HAS BEEN SPECIFIED BY COUNTRYSIDE ZEST TO CREATE VISUALLY STRIKING AND INSPIRATIONAL NEW HOMES AT ITS BEAULIEU DEVELOPMENT, A 50/50 JOINT VENTURE PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN COUNTRYSIDE PROPERTIES AND LONDON & QUADRANT.

eaulieu is a new district in Chelmsford that will deliver up to 3,600 high quality homes to suit a variety of housing requirements.

Cedral Lap from Marley Eternit was chosen by project designers for this exciting new development, Beaulieu Heath, to create real stand out architecture, providing unique and individual new homes that would both attract buyers and complement the inspiring landscape.

Cedral is an external fibre cement weatherboard cladding material, making it extremely durable, long lasting and rot free. Offering a visually striking ‘New England’ style appearance, this highly attractive and low maintenance solution comes in a wide range of colours to suit any development and is simple to install to save housebuilders time and money.

As part of the specification process for the latest phase of homes, Countryside Zest

wanted to ensure that they complemented the style of the existing homes at Beaulieu, whilst also creating the separation required to treat this as a new development.

The contemporary interpretation of the ‘New England’ vernacular was chosen as the solution to this. This provided the opportunity Cedral to be used on the properties incorporated with traditional masonry and rendered dwellings. The development aspired to create a sense of place and character, setting the scene for future phases.

Alex Cook, Development Manager at Countryside Properties, commented: “We have been very pleased with the finished result that Cedral created, the combination of all materials used at Beaulieu just goes to show how well modern materials can be used to produce traditional architecture. The overall quality of the build can be felt when entering the site.

“Cedral provided quick installation which meant we could stay on programme for

delivery as well. The low maintenance cladding solution appeals to many homeowners as they know their property will look as good as new in years to come.”

Constructed within a series of distinctly designed neighbourhoods linked by extensive open spaces and landscaping, Beaulieu will offer a complete range of housing from one bedroom apartments to five bedroom houses to suit different buyers and lifestyles.

“We specified Cedral in a number of colours including Slate Grey, Cream White, Sand Yellow, and Grey Green,” continued Alex. “These were all chosen in accordance with the surrounding surface finishes and style of each property. Colour choices can make a massive difference to a street scene, so our design team worked closely with the planners to ensure the correct co-ordination was achieved between cladding, doors and surfaces.”

Marley Eternit – Enquiry

The widest choice of copper surfaces and copper alloys for architecture, from the world’s leading integrated copper group and largest copper recycler.

Nordic Bronze. Project: Waitrose store, Chester; Architects: Broadway Malyan; Photo: Edmund Sumner

How to consider weathering with timber cladding

The use of timber cladding has boomed in recent decades. In many cases timber cladding still looks beautiful 5 – 10 years later, but in other cases it has not fared as well.

The key to successful implementation is a good understanding of weathering – both natural and human influenced - and how

species react in modern environments, also the effect of elevation and aspect.

Timber cladding is often used on buildings with numerous elevations and overhangs where panels will face different influencing factors. These can include the weather and differing amounts of UV light and wind. With a huge amount of differential weathering to consider, these effects can be highly noticeable if not enough consideration is given to aspect, elevation, and detailing.

Obviously, when left in its natural state timber will weather more quickly than when protected. Common unexpected changes in appearance can include; extractive staining in woods like oak, sweet chestnut and western red cedar, where soluble organic compounds in the wood migrate in the presence of rain; black and green mould caused by a lack of sunlight or perpetually damp conditions; blackening due to particulates in pollution; and surface greying (bleaching) which, while an attractive feature, can be undesirable if uneven due to different levels of exposure to rain and sunlight.

Canadian cedar is the most popular cladding species. In unpolluted rural areas and on designs that have considered

weathering factors, uncoated Canadian cedar will develop a beautiful silver/grey colour. However, its inappropriate use in the wrong environment and a failure to consider weathering factors can result in an unattractive patchy appearance.

Oak and sweet chestnut are heavy in tannic acid, which is very reactive and brown in colour. In some cases these species have been used to clad the top storey of buildings while the lower storey features white render. Rain can cause tannins and oils to leach out from the wood, often resulting in staining on the render. Similarly, ferrous particulates in urban road pollution will react with these extracts causing unattractive blackening of the surface.

The correct approach for designers looking to successfully use timber cladding is to take a broad view of the project and the specific influencers that will affect the timber used, including; aspect of the elevations; the environment (is it rural or urban?); proximity of other buildings or trees that might provide shade; design and management of water run-off; and consideration of the reactivity of different species.

AS A NATURAL MATERIAL, TIMBER CLADDING NEEDS A LITTLE EXTRA UNDERSTANDING TO ENSURE LONG TERM SUCCESSFUL IMPLEMENTATION, AS TOM BARNES OF VASTERN TIMBER EXPLAINS.

A seamless finish in areas of conservation

JOHN LAMBERT, GENERAL MANAGER AT FORTICRETE, EXPLAINS HOW THE LATEST DEVELOPMENTS IN CONCRETE ROOF TILE TECHNOLOGY PROVIDE A PRACTICAL, COST-EFFECTIVE AND AESTHETICALLY PLEASING SOLUTION.

n order to meet local planning regulations in areas of natural beauty such as national parks, conservation areas and World Heritage Sites, new homes need to look attractive, blend with the surrounding area and help shape desirable communities where people want to live.

As one of the most prominent features on a property, the choice of roofing material will have a huge impact on the overall aesthetics and feel of a building.

A popular choice of roofing tile for the UK built environment is natural slate, however even though it is a durable building material, it is rarely used today because of its expense to quarry, cut and transport.

In addition, with so many different size, finish, colour and regional variations of roof tile available, it can be challenging to select the right product for the right job to ensure that a house is refurbished to fit in with the local vernacular.

So when it comes to specifying products for refurb projects, building product manufacturers have an important role to play in terms of providing guidance and support to architects and clients.

To provide a solution, leading manufacturers now offer innovative concrete roof tiles which offer virtually the same architectural properties as natural stone or slate. These specialist tiles mellow with age and can be laid in in broken bond, random widths or diminishing courses for an authentic traditional look.

Leading ranges come in a selection of up to ten subtle and natural colours, all carefully balanced to suit regional preferences. As with natural stone, the individual colouring of these tiles vary slightly from slate-to-slate, recreating that traditional appearance so hard to achieve within tight budgets.

The sizes range from 457mm x 305mm (min. pitch 25°), right up to the imposing 610mm x 457mm which can be laid confidently at pitches as low as 17.5°, creating a bold appearance.

With architects and specifiers committed to creating sustainable, thriving communities when undertaking projects within sensitive and sometimes difficult planning sites, concrete roof tiles provide the versatility, performance and aesthetics to help them achieve just that.

Local planning offices don’t want properties which look unnatural and out of place within the local area, which means building product manufacturers need to understand the wants and needs of local authorities, and help architects and specifiers to create buildings that look traditional and enhance the built environment.

Forticrete – Enquiry 85

Façade Solutions for New Buildings

Redefining copper architecture

COPPER WAS ONE OF THE FIRST METALS USED BY MAN AND IS ONE OF OUR OLDEST BUILDING MATERIALS, WITH UNIQUE PROPERTIES. BUT AURUBIS IS REDEFINING COPPER FOR CONTEMPORARY ARCHITECTURE WITH THE ONGOING DEVELOPMENT OF ITS NORDIC COPPER RANGE.

ordic Copper products provide straightaway surfaces that otherwise take years to develop in the atmosphere – particularly for facades. The processes involved are generally similar to those taking place over time in the environment, utilising copper mineral compounds, not alien chemical processes. Essentially, they bring forward environmental changes without taking away the integrity of copper as a natural, living material.

Impressive Choice

The Aurubis Architectural range includes Nordic Standard ‘mill finish’ and Nordic Brown pre-oxidised copper offering lighter or darker shades of brown, determined by the thickness of the oxide layer. The Nordic Blue and Nordic Green ranges have been developed with properties and colours based on the same brochantite mineralogy found in natural patinas all over the world. All these surfaces form an integral part of the copper and are not coatings or paint. The material is easily bent and formed, and there are no limitations on the length of copper sheet or strip because whole coils are treated on the production line, not just limited size sheets.

As well as the solid blue, green or new Turquoise patina colours, ‘Living’ surfaces

are available with other intensities of patina flecks revealing some of the dark oxidised background material. The opportunities that these surfaces offer designers are demonstrated by modern interventions to the historic Hotel Post at the heart of Gothenburg, Sweden, animated with rich, striated surfaces of copper panels patinated to varying levels.

Innovative Alloy

But copper alloys are growing in popularity as well. The innovative Nordic Royal is an alloy of copper with aluminium and zinc, giving it a rich golden through-colour and making it very stable. It has a thin protective oxide layer containing all three elements when produced. As a result, the surface retains its golden colour and simply loses some of its sheen over time, as the oxide layer thickens with exposure to the atmosphere to give a matt finish. It does not develop a blue or green patina.

Nordic Bronze is an alloy of copper and tin, initially with a similar colour to Nordic Standard. When exposed to the atmosphere, the surface gradually changes to a stable, dark chocolate brown. Nordic Brass – which can also be supplied pre-weathered – is an alloy of copper and zinc with a distinctive golden yellow colour. When exposed to the

atmosphere, the surface begins to darken within weeks and can change to a dark brown in around a year. Stunning examples of Nordic Brass cladding can be seen on Stockholm’s historic quayside, with a series of thoroughly modern terminal buildings, serving local ferries and sightseeing boats.

Largest Recycler

The name Aurubis is based on the Latin for ‘red gold’ – reflecting the outstanding importance of copper since civilisation began. With over 140 years experience, Aurubis is now the world’s leading integrated copper group and largest copper recycler. Aurubis has launched a new copper surfaces and alloys sample pack with related brochure for architects. They are available upon request by email to: g.bell@aurubis.com. For more information on Aurubis products visit: www.aurubis.com/finland/architectural

Unixil Winter Render is a new type of topcoat finish that allows for the application between the temperatures of +1° to +15° C . Application is possible with humidity levels of 95% therefore allowing a greater window of opportunity for completion of works and preventing weather delays.

The need for training to improve quality standards for EWI

EXTERNAL WALL INSULATION IS ENJOYING A RAPID RISE IN POPULARITY IN THE UK: A FOCUS ON THE ENERGY EFFICIENCY OF THE BUILDING FABRIC, THE URGENT NEED TO RENOVATE LARGE NUMBERS OF HOUSES AND A SHORTAGE OF BRICKS ALL PROVIDE GROWTH IN APPLICATIONS BEYOND THE TRADITIONAL HIGH-END SPECIFICATION SECTOR.

owever, any market that sees such rapid expansion runs the risk of encouraging less highly skilled contractors or lower quality installations. We at Sto are not alone in viewing with some concern the rapid rise in the number of companies offering EWI work without there being a comprehensive range of training options available.

Sto, the first building products manufacturer to design and produce external wall insulation systems and still regarded as the industry benchmark after 60 years, was one of the companies who has worked with the National Insulation Association to produce the new Code of Professional Practice (CoPP) for installer members. This Code of Practice represents a great step forward, with the next stage focusing on the training of the individuals who will be installing the system on site.

Training in this sector is currently carried out by individual manufacturers many of whom

have made substantial investment in their training provision and facilities – our own newly opened training centre in Birmingham is a good example.

Recognising that many new entrants to the sector have not had the opportunity to receive high quality on-site training from experienced practitioners, we have undertaken a huge programme of investment in our training services. We regard this as part of our technical support offer to the market.

While primarily aimed at new entrants, we have also found a ready audience amongst well established contractors looking to refresh their skills and learn about new products and systems. As a company we feel most secure providing our products to site via contractors we have trained.

This is only part of our ongoing commitment to quality installations. Our technical advisors also visit sites on a regular basis to give support, clearing up technical queries on the spot and also ensuring that the installation is progressing at the level of quality we are looking for. This on-site support allows our advisors to provide guidance on detailing –an area we have found particularly important when dealing with retrofitting external wall insulation to residential properties.

Since opening our new additional training centre we have been encouraged by the level of demand, with an increasing number of individuals and companies, both new entrants and established organisations attending courses. It is heartening to see such a grant range of applicators passing through our doors keeping their main focus on the quality of their work.

Sika-Trocal delivers five star roofing solution at luxurious riverbank hotel extension

AT THE PARK PLAZA RIVERBANK IN CENTRAL LONDON, THE INSTALLATION OF HIGH PERFORMANCE SIKA-TROCAL TYPE S AND TYPE SGMA MEMBRANES WILL ENSURE THE HOTEL’S MULTI-MILLION POUND EXTENSION AND RECONFIGURATION IS COMPLETED ON TIME AND TO THE HIGHEST STANDARD.

ocated on the South Bank of the River Thames, Park Plaza Riverbank is undergoing an eight-storey extension that will add 184 new rooms and a new private penthouse with terraces to the hotel.

Working with ESA architects and Gear Construction, the design has been delivered which includes the creation of eight separate roof areas of different sizes, shapes and pitches. With a fast and reliable installation a key requirement, the mechanically fixed Sika-Trocal S and SGmA systems proved to be the optimum roofing solution, offering a smooth and rapid installation, excellent flexibility and crisp, simple detailing.

Due to the city centre location, two roof pitches of 25° and 44°, and both the complexity and number of roof sections, a forward-thinking application method was required. With the company’s unique and innovative abseiling solution, ICS Roofing was appointed as the project’s roofing contractor. With the complexity of the design, ICS employed specialist Sika-Trocal installers Brightside Roofing to complete the application over a projected 18 week period.

Brightside installed a total of 1,755m2 of the Sika-Trocal Type S roofing membrane across the three main roof areas. Using the unique Sika-Trocal Laminated Metal Discs and thermally broken fasteners, this provided a rapid and economic roofing solution by allowing ICS to secure both the membrane and the insulation in one go, reducing the fasteners required by 40-60% and speeding up installation.

As well as being one of the most rapid and economic systems to install, it allowed the installation team to achieve exceptional waterproofing and durability – approved by the British Board of Agrément (BBA) to have a life expectancy, in their opinion, of in excess of 35 years.

The unreinforced nature of Type S membrane offers exceptional malleability and allows high quality detailing works to be completed to an exceptional standard. On the 44° pitched roof, insulation was cleverly installed in a step formation to allow installers safe and easy access to the highest point of the roof – with the membrane allowing a single continuous application towards a stunning box gutter and parapet detail.

For a number of complex details, ICS turned to Sika-Trocal Metal for a neat aesthetic and crisp finish to perimeter flashings and junctions. As well as a stylish aesthetic and a fast application, health and safety of site

operatives and members of the public has been a prerequisite from start to finish.

As part of the overall application, ICS Roofing appointed Eco Green Roofs to complete the installation above 227m2 of Sika-Trocal SGmA membrane. The system was overlaid with sedum matting to create a living roof area and improve the roof’s thermal performance.

The garden roof systems are compatible with all existing membranes and once installed, will extend the life of the green roof, help reduce heating and air-conditioning costs and even water sewage charges.

Thanks to careful collaboration between Gear Construction, ICS Roofing and Sika-Trocal, this stunning extension and reconfiguration will soon welcome thousands of new visitors from all over the world to the highest quality accommodation in the heart of London.

Innovation provides you with roofing and cladding solutions that are as ground-breaking as they are practical and as valuable as they are cost-effective. Put simply we innovate to provide products that are relevant and useful to you.

Our commitment to innovation delivers high quality, cutting edge manufacture and a raft of new products that provide added value through the combination of better performance and lower costs. Some of our recent product innovations include Vieo, Opus, sinusoidal cladding, Quattro, integrated solar panels, transpired solar collectors, and a more efficient stainless steel halter for standing seam roofs. Innovation also provides the highest levels of product performance and technical support, such as low U-values, CE Marking and BIM compatibility.

A culture of innovation is present throughout our supply chain, with Elite Systems using only Colorcoat HPS200 Ultra® and Colorcoat Prisma® from Tata Steel. These Colorcoat® products come with the Confidex® Guarantee offering extended cover for up to 40 years on Colorcoat HPS200 Ultra® and up to 30 years on Colorcoat Prisma®. Colorcoat® products are certified to BES6001 Responsible Sourcing standard.

Our two most recent innovations are the new Opus panel and sinusoidal profiled sheet.

Opus is the new plank panel that is available as part of an Elite system, a LINEAR Rainscreen and a LINEAR Rainspan system, as well as being ideal for use as a soffit plank.

Investment in state-of-the-art manufacturing machinery enables us to provide the increasingly popular sinusoidal profile on a short lead time and at a competitive price.

Kemper System provides odourless roofing solution for Kent schools

TWO SCHOOLS IN KENT WILL BE MAKING A MORE WATERTIGHT START TO THE NEW ACADEMIC YEAR THANKS TO ROOF REFURBISHMENT PROJECTS USING KEMPER SYSTEM’S SOLVENT-FREE KEMPEROL 2K-PUR WATERPROOFING SYSTEM.

St Columba’s Catholic Boys’ School in Bexleyheath and Ashford Oaks Primary School in Ashford have both invested in upgrades to their roofs, installed by specialist roofing contractor, Capital Roofing.

A 14-week programme at St Columba’s has involved overlaying the entire existing roof surface with a warm roof build up from Kemper System to improve the building’s thermal performance and provide effective waterproofing.

Capital Roofing used the existing mineral as a vapour control layer, making minor repairs and preparing the surface before installing Kemper System’s PIR insulation board. Kemper System’s Kemperol 2K-PUR odourless, solvent free waterproofing system was then used to complete the roof overlay scheme. Capital Roofing applied Kemper System’s D primer before applying

the cold-applied liquid resin. The system’s reinforcement fleece was cut to size and shape on site to ensure accurate detailing around skylights, gutter details and curbs. The resin was applied in a single wet-on-wet process before the system was allowed to cure, creating a tough, flexible monolithic membrane that cannot delaminate and bonds directly to the substrate.

At Ashford Oaks Primary School, the recently completed scheme involved the roofs to the school’s main hall and adjoining classrooms. It is the second project to be completed by Capital Roofing at the school as part of a phased programme and follows the success of a scheme to renew the roof areas above the kitchen, dining hall and reception area using Kemperol 2K-PUR.

The project was carried out while the school was fully operational and Kemper System’s solvent free Kemperol 2K-PUR provided

significant advantages because it is both odourless and suitable for overlay directly onto the existing single ply surface.

Following installation of the Kemperol 2K-PUR, maintenance walkways were added, with Capital Roofing using Kemper System’s TC resin and quartz aggregates, followed by a sealant, to create an anti-slip surface in designated areas.

Comments Terry from Capital Roofing: “Using the Kemperol 2K-PUR to refurbish the school’s roofs means that the schools can carry on as normal with minimal waste removal or nuisance odours to disrupt staff or pupils, and without the fire risk of hot works.”

The Edgemere interlocking slate is well known to us and we have specified it on a number of projects. We feel it offers an ideal combination of product performance, looks and price, as well as speed of construction. The thin leading edge ensures we achieve the look we are seeking to support the overall design vision we set down for Kendrick Homes developments, without incurring the costs associated with a natural slate roof tile.

Andrew Cockayne, Kendrick Homes

Handmade range is first choice for standout roof design

MARLEY ETERNIT IS HELPING SPECIFIERS ACHIEVE STANDOUT ROOF DESIGNS WITH ITS PREMIUM HANDMADE CLAY ROOF TILES FROM THE CANTERBURY RANGE.

Sarah Jackson continues: “We’re delighted that our Canterbury handmade range is meeting growing demand. By bringing back the traditional skills and craftsmanship to our clay facility in Staffordshire, we’ve been able to combine authentic production methods that are true-to-tradition with modern firing techniques, to create beautiful clay tiles that are highly durable.”

The Canterbury range of clay plain tiles is manufactured at Marley Eternit’s Keele factory, which specialises in clay plain tile production. Combining the knowledge and experience gained from handmaking the original Canterbury collection, the site is ideally suited to use the skills learnt to produce the new range of premium Canterbury handmade clay tiles.

The tiles have been used on a contemporary show home installation based on the design of a real home. The roof, designed by Oakworth Homes and Benchmark Self Build, features 2,000 clay roof tiles from Marley Eternit’s premium handmade range which launched earlier this year to meet growing demand for an authentic yet durable handmade clay plain tile solution.

The handmade clay plain tiles from Marley Eternit are fast becoming the first choice for architects looking to raise the bar on roof design and achieve a high quality finish.

The tiles are available in three colours including Loxleigh, which boasts an antique appearance due to its semi-sanded finish in red and grey shades and Burford, a rich red-brown tone in a fully sanded texture. Meanwhile, the Chailey offers a vibrant orange tone and can be used on the main roof or as a contrast tile for vertical tiling. The range is proving particularly popular for quality housing developments and sensitive refurbishments.

Sarah Jackson, Marketing Product Manager at Marley Eternit, comments: “With their authentic handmade finish and traditional colour options, it’s no surprise that the Canterbury clay plain tile range is fast becoming the go-to choice for specifiers and it’s great to see something of a resurgence in the use of handmade tiles. The Canterbury range has been developed to meet the growing needs of today’s architects who

are often tasked with achieving distinguished properties. In many cases, planners will only accept genuine handmade clay plain tiles for heritage and conservation projects.”

The authentic blend of colours enables specifiers to mix all three tiles on the roof to create their own unique design or replicate a patchwork of colour often seen on traditional roofs in Suffolk, Sussex and Kent. Canterbury clay plain tiles are also available with a complementary range of traditional handmade fittings and decorative accessories to achieve the perfect finish.

Marley Eternit’s natural handmade clay plain tiles are created by skilled craftsmen at its clay facility in Staffordshire, using the same time-honoured methods that have been used for hundreds of years. It is this handmaking process used to create the range that brings random undulations and variations that gives each tile its unique appearance and character.

All Canterbury handmade clay plain tiles are made from Etruria Marl, which is widely accepted as the finest clay for strength and durability.

The unique roof installation used all three tile colours from the Canterbury range with the Chailey, a vibrant orange, Loxleigh, a semi-sand finished with an antique blend of red and grey shades and Burford, a rich redbrown tone in a fully sanded texture.

The finished result was an oak timber framed building with a rustic feel, which was based on the design of a real home planned to be built in a West Sussex village.

Marley Eternit – Enquiry 98

Levato Mono Porcelain Paver System –Ideal for decking/balcony/walkway makeovers

HIGH LOAD AND IMPACT RESISTANCE; EXTREME WEAR AND SCRATCH RESISTANCE; FROST AND FIREPROOF; COLOUR FAST AND EXTREMELY RESISTANT TO STAINING; RESISTANCE TO MOULD AND ALGAE GROWTH – THESE QUALITIES ENSURE AN EXTREMELY LOW MAINTENANCE AND TROUBLE FREE FLOORING SOLUTION. AND NOW WITH CO-ORDINATING INTERNAL TILING AVAILABLE ALLOWING FOR SEAMLESS VISUAL TRANSITION BETWEEN INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL SPACES.

Used in conjunction with height adjustable fixed head or selflevelling pedestals or fixed height paver support pads, the Levato Mono system makes it possible to create perfectly level surfaces over uneven sub-surfaces. Ideal for installation over all waterproof membranes our support systems cover height ranges from 7mm to 550mm and incorporate a patented self-levelling slope correction facility with the convenience of height adjustment after the pavers are installed.

Available in 40+ colours and finishes in both ultra-realistic timber and stone effect, by combining 3D printing and mould making technology to reproduce identical copies of natural materials and with up to 30 prints

available for each paver range. Once laid, the eye is unable to discern any replicated pattern allowing for a completely natural looking surface. Recently specified for

external dining areas at London Zoo, LIDL HQ Northfleet and the new Portico Terrace at Theatre Royal Drury Lane - where Levato Mono sandstone effect paver ranges were

considered so similar to natural sandstone material that is was sanctioned for use on a Grade I listed building by English Heritage.

Levato Mono porcelain paver system benefits at a glance…

• ‘Floating floor’ – installation over single ply membranes.

• Eternal product - zero maintenance required, offering massive over-life savings.

• Highly abrasion and stain resistant.

• Highly slip resistant; R11 and achieved up to +65 wet in the BS pendulum test.

• Lightweight – 45kgs per m2.

• High load bearing and impact resistance.

• Timber & stone effects; 40+ finishes available.

• Ideal for balconies, roof terraces and piazzas, for both commercial and residential use.

• Completely non porous.

• Fire & frost proof.

• Height adjustable supports to raise surface from 9mm up to 550mm.

The Deck Tile Co. – Enquiry 103

Go wild with new naturals from Trespa

TRESPA HAS ANNOUNCED A NEW RANGE OF PANELS WITH SEVEN UNIQUE DECORS AND FINISHES, ALLOWING THE ARCHITECT AND SPECIFIER TO UNLEASH THEIR INDIVIDUAL DESIGN CREATIVITY IN NEW WAYS. NOW, ANY BUILDING CAN ACQUIRE INSTANT CHARACTER WITH DECORS INSPIRED BY NATURAL MATERIALS AND PROCESSES, BRINGING BUILDING FAÇADES TO LIFE WITH A NEW RANGE OF CLADDING PANELS, EACH WITH A UNIQUE, TIMELESS NATURAL TEXTURE.

he irregular, raw, weathered surfaces of the high quality, durable panels allow structures to stand out in any environment,” says Lucas Stevens, Design Expert at Trespa. “The new range makes it possible to add the aesthetic qualities of natural materials to any design. No matter how large or small the structure, the scalable, dimensionless designs of Trespa Meteon Naturals bring both accents and complete façades to life”.

The new Trespa Meteon Naturals showcase the next step in decor technology as they feature unique innovations. Firstly, their matt finish includes gloss elements. Secondly, the decors have metallic pigments. This combination of features creates a stunning

effect on the façade: ‘When you walk around the building, each elevation will totally change with the angle of light’.

Unique Colours Inspired By Nature’s Timeless Designs

Rusted Brown creates a beautiful design inspired by corroded surfaces grown by the elements over time. Forged Alloy provides a natural, subtle patina touching a yellow gold surface. Corroded Green adds nuanced variations in an exciting green patina. Sintered Alloy depicts a rough brown yellow surface resembling traces of the forces of nature. Hardened Brown gives a strong brown surface with a touch of volcanic red. Tempered Grey provides a bright grey design, inspired by surfaces, stained and weathered by time. Casted Grey gives the

depth in a weathered patina design on a raw dark grey surface.

Durability

“Trespa Meteon Naturals combine a timeless natural appearance with the solid durability associated with all Trespa products,” explains Mr. Stevens. “The panels have been tested extensively for weather- and UV-resistance. “The surfaces are easy to clean and 3,000 hours of weather exposure simulator testing showed outstanding performance, guaranteeing the products’ longevity worldwide, which is why Trespa offers a 10-year conditional product warranty on the entire range.”*

The panels are the latest extension of the popular Trespa Meteon range. Trespa Meteon is engineered for vertical exterior wall coverings such as façade cladding, balcony panelling, sunblinds and other demanding exterior applications. With a broad range of colours, finishes and tactile effects, Trespa Meteon® brings compelling aesthetic and almost limitless design possibilities to nextgeneration architectural claddings.

Appreciate details and façade designs with instant character, which stand out in any environment. Get inspired by the elements by visiting new.trespa.com and order your sample pack today. Or for further information regarding the complete Trespa Meteon product range, contact Petra Van Pol or Natascha Deferm at the UK Sales Office.

Trespa UK Ltd, 35 Calthorpe Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 1TS. Tel: 0808 234 0268. Fax: 0808 234 1377. Email: info.uk@trespa.com

Trespa – Enquiry 105

Simulated lead and copper – a great alternative to traditional lead and copper roofing

IF YOU’RE CONSIDERING REPLACING YOUR OLD LEAD OR COPPER ROOFING, WHY NOT CONSIDER OUR POPULAR SIMULATED LEAD AND COPPER ROOFING SYSTEMS, WHICH MAKES A GREAT ALTERNATIVE, AS IT’S EXTREMELY STRONG AND IS IDEAL FOR NOT ONLY ROOFS BUT ALSO GUTTER LININGS AND COMPLEX DETAIL WORK.

The strength of our simulated lead and copper also helps to prevent vandalism and criminal damage, as it’s far too strong to be damaged easily by force. The low scrap value also means that scrap thieves will most likely not even look at it twice, helping to preserve your roof from the touch of criminals.

When it comes to colouring you won’t have to settle for just one finish thanks to the Topseal top coat, which can be tailored to a colour that matches your existing lead or

copper roofing. It’s also very easy to work with making it perfect for detailed work, which is a popular sight on historic buildings.

There is also the environmental factor to take into consideration. Traditional lead and copper roofing can create a toxic run off when it rains, which can be harmful to the environment. Our simulated lead and copper fibreglass roofing systems on the other hand is completely safe and environmentally friendly, so you won’t have to worry about any toxic issues.

Installation of your new simulated lead or copper roofing will be carried out by our highly trained and Topseal approved installers who have years of combined experience installing similar features. No matter what shape your roof is or how many awkward spots it has, you can rest assured that our installers will be able to install it within a good time frame, helping to reduce the effect on your daily routine as much as possible. Before you know it your new roof will be installed and will no doubt look amazing on your building.

Best of all you can rest assured that your new simulated lead or copper roof will perform for years to come thanks to the 2540 year guarantee that Topseal offer, which is included completely free. This will give you peace of mind that your roof is designed to last a lifetime but it’s always worth carrying out regular checks to make sure everything is where it should be.

If you would like to find out more about our simulated lead and copper roofing solutions, contact us on 08000 831 094 and we will be happy to answer any questions that you may have.

Topseal

QuadroClad: The flexible façade with ultimate strength and durability

SUPER SHARP WITH CLEAN LINES, THE UNIQUE AND ORIGINAL HUNTER DOUGLAS QUADROCLAD SYSTEM IS THE PERFECT FAÇADE FOR ANY BUILDING.

Hunter Douglas has been developing ground-breaking ventilated façade systems for more than 40 years and has used aircraft technology to create its distinctive QuadroClad system, which encompasses a flat, durable panel with a coil-coated aluminium skin that can be folded or curved to produce undulating façades.

It offers unparalleled flexibility in both panel size – up to 1,500 mm x 6,000 mm as standard – and all the panels are bespoke made for every project, offering designers the opportunity to choose from a wide range of shapes, joint options, materials –aluminium, zinc, copper and stainless steel – as well as finishes and colours to maximise customisation.

It is these qualities that make the QuadroClad system such a valuable design tool for architects who are looking to create a stunning frontage for any new build or refurbishment project.

Suitable for high-rise or single storey buildings, sloping façades, external soffits, and ceilings, the panels are tested for corrosion resistance, ventilation, fire resistance and wind-load performance –withstanding wind loads up to 3000N/m2, which is more than the wind load produced by a hurricane force 12.

Critically, it is a clean and low-maintenance system, with integrated channels that provide ventilation and rain and condensation drainage behind the cladding surface. And because the system is fixed with simple, adjustable components, installation is quick and simple.

The QC-200 and QC-300 systems comprise aluminium panels that are anodised or painted and are built to be lightweight yet

very strong, thanks to the stable metal honeycomb structure that is fitted between two layers of smooth, coil-coated aluminium, which are bonded together with high-quality adhesives.

The QC-200, with visually closed joints, is available in maximum panel sizes of 1,500 mm x 4,500 mm, while the QC-300, with open joints, is available as 1500 mm x 6000 mm panels, making it the ideal façade system for larger surfaces with fewer panels. For another distinctive look, the QuadroClad® system is available in zinc, in five preweathered finishes and in sizes 1000 mm x 3,000 mm.

A stunning façade has never been easier to create because the Hunter Douglas system uses the same substructure whether zinc or aluminium panels are being fitted, which means that architects have the freedom to

create striking screens using a combination of two, three or all four finishes.

Whether single-designed panels are used for a uniform look or are multi-shaped for an eye-catching look, the options available for the Hunter Douglas QuadroClad systems are endless.

Hunter Douglas – Enquiry

Jet Cox offers a ‘baker’s dozen’ of automatic smoke vents

BRITAIN’S MOST FAMOUS FIRE – WHICH ENGULFED THE CAPITAL IN 1666 – REPORTEDLY STARTED IN A BAKERS SHOP IN PUDDING LANE AND RESULTED IN THE FIRST REGULATIONS ON BUILDING CONSTRUCTION TO TRY AND PREVENT FUTURE CATASTROPHES.

y coincidence the selection of “Smoke and Heat Exhaust Vent Systems” or smoke vents offered by Jet Cox Limited extends to 13 sizes all of which are fully compliant with the latest CE EN 1 2102-2 Certification. In fact the Jet Cox FireJet 165 24V/48V has been developed to provide automatic smoke extract in the event of any type of conflagration and thereby create a smoke free layer above the floor by removing

both smoke particle and any potentially life threatening combustion gases.

The FireJet 165 models can be activated by a dedicated smoke alarm or a remote third party fire detection system and are fully compatible with any modern building management system. Crucially the FireJet 165 is available with either a 24 volt or 48 volt control panel with battery back-up in case of mains power failure and there is the further option of manual override using switches close to the unit. Such capabilities are crucially important as smoke and noxious fumes are the main cause of fatalities in a fire disorientating people and asphyxiating them in minutes. Installing adequate smoke ventilation not only saves lives by facilitating the evacuation, but also makes it easier for the emergency services to gain access, to assist and tackle the fire. This has the additional benefit of reducing damage to the building fabric or property itself, both from the

flames, and smoke damage, which rapidly spreads far beyond the seat of the blaze.

The size options extend from 1000mm x 1500mm up to 1500mm x 2500mm; all operated by a single, galvanized steel mechanism. They open to an angle of 165 degrees and can be specified with either clear or obscure polycarbonate glazing; while there is the further option of a solid aluminium cover. The 24 or 48Volt motor features water resistance to IP 64 standards and will open the vent fully in under a minute. Jet Cox can provide clients with additional design support in relation to wind or snow loading and other aspects of the FireJet’s technical specifications. The majority of sizes are available ex-stock and all of them can be mounted on either 300mm splayed PVC-U upstands or splayed metal upstands measuring 300, 400 or 500mm in height.

Jet Cox – Enquiry 111

Coxdome trade range sheds new light on technology at essex school

A SIX WEEK CONTRACT CARRIED OUT BY A BUILDING COMPANY EXPERIENCED IN ROOFING WORK, COMPRISED OF A SERIES OF ROOFLIGHTS ON AN EAST LONDON SCHOOL UPGRADED TO INSULATED, TWIN-SKIN UNITS FROM THE JET COX COXDOME TRADE RANGE: OFFERING IMPROVED NATURAL DAYLIGHTING AS WELL AS ENHANCING THE ALLROUND ENERGY AND WEATHER PERFORMANCE.

he work, at the All Saints Catholic School in Dagenham, was carried out by Forest Gate Construction earlier this year without any inconvenience to the school’s staff or pupils.

Although the flat and barrel vaulted roof areas were in a generally good state of repair, the estates’ department responsible for the buildings’ upkeep took the decision to replace the existing rooflights over the computer suite and design & technology teaching space. This was due to the fact the existing units offered little insulation value and were coming to the end of their working life.

A total of 38 of the 600mm x 600mm Coxdome Trade Range Rooflights, along with 300 mm high insulated upstands. The double-skin domes feature tough polycarbonate glazing which will resist

physical damage as well as extremes of weather. The rooflights feature trickle ventilation on two sides to help maintain a healthy indoor atmosphere; though they are hinged for manual operation if increased airflow is required during spells of unusually hot weather.

Forest Gate Construction’s experienced operatives carried out the switchover to the Coxdome Trade Range units in small groups, sealing the installation using small sections of high performance felt, together with fluid applied sealants for detail areas.

The entire roofscape was left looking clean and tidy while the smart new polycarbonate roof domes offer a unified and modern appearance.

A spokesperson for Jet Cox commented: “The All Hallows project was typical of our

To make an enquiry – Go online: www.enquire.to/spec Send a fax: 01952 234002 or post our: Free Reader Enquiry Card

education and many municipal contracts –where our Coxdome Trade Range Rooflights are regularly specified because of their ready availability in standard sizes and very good value for money. The new rooflights offer much improved light transmission for these teaching spaces and will also contribute to reduced heating costs long term.”

Jet Cox – Enquiry 112

Green Roof or Photovoltaics? Introducing Biosolar

DECIDING BETWEEN INSTALLING A GREEN ROOF AND PHOTOVOLTAICS (PV) HAS BEEN A QUESTION FACED BY MANY INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS OVER THE YEARS WHEN SURVEYING A FLAT ROOF; HOWEVER THESE TWO TECHNOLOGIES ARE NO LONGER MUTUALLY EXCLUSIVE OPTIONS WITH THE INTRODUCTION OF BIOSOLAR ROOFS…

BIOSOLAR?

A biosolar roof is the successful combination of biodiverse and extensive green roofs with photovoltaic systems, delivering a duality of technologies for environmental advantage and increased profitability for your client or building owner.

BENEFITS?

Biosolar roofs deliver all the benefits of green roofs and solar power in a synergy of technologies that maximises PV output and the footprint for the green roof:

- Cooling effect of vegetation increases solar output by up to 5%

- Green roof element acts as ballast so waterproofing is not penetrated

- Entire roof qualifies as biodiverse green roof by maximising area for vegetation

- Shade tolerant species thrive under PV creating more diverse flora and fauna community

APPLICATIONS?

Suitable for both new build and refurbishment applications, the biosolar system can be retrofitted on many existing roofs without the need for any structural modification to the building. Weight loadings and design calculations are obviously an important factor when surveying a building to determine its suitability for a biosolar roof; however these are all included within a free Bauder roof survey that can be utilised by structural engineers to confirm feasibility, ensuring you procure a comprehensive appraisal for your project.

Flat roof manufacturer Bauder was the first company to introduce green roofs to the UK market over 30 years ago and it has now launched its own innovative PV mounting system for green roofs, Bauder BioSOLAR, which is set 300mm above the level of the substrate to allow light and moisture to the vegetation, and for easy maintenance access.

With Bauder able to supply and install all of the waterproofing, green roof and PV elements it gives surveyors total confidence that the solution is the right one for their clients, with single point responsibility for all the roofing components. To find out more information about Bauder BioSOLAR contact Bauder on 0845 2718800 or visit www.bauder.co.uk.

Bauder – Enquiry 114

New façade from Schueco has vents that are fully concealed

New from Schueco UK is the FWS 60 CV concealed vent façade, a state-of-the-art aluminium system for floor-to-ceiling ribbon windows where it is not possible to distinguish from the outside which vents open and which vents are fixed. This revolutionary innovation has the added benefit of maximising light through the façade. Ideal for punched openings, the Schueco FWS 60 CV façade counteracts the prevailing trend of meeting the demand for ever greater levels of thermal and sound insulation by using ever larger window profiles. The system has been designed with face-widths that are elegant and narrow and yet its inbuilt engineering excellence means that it delivers impressive Ucw values as low as 0.85 W/m2K

Mapei launches its very own Homeowners Guide for external wall insulation systems

Mapei is pleased to announce the recent launch of its very own ‘Homeowners Guide’ for External Wall Insulation (EWI) Systems. This new brochure is aimed to help proprietors (Homeowners) understand how EWI Systems work and the benefits to individuals who are considering external thermal insulation for their home.

The brochure explains what EWI is; the insulation options with diagrams, funding and grants as well as project case studies where various systems have been specified.

External Wall Insulation can help reduce heating costs and increase the value of a property and Mapei recommends a wide range of certified systems to suit the end users’ needs, with full technical support available throughout the project from start to finish.

Mapei also offer a variety of other products such as façade cleaners; repair products, protective and decorative coatings to help prevent micro-organisms (such as mildew, mould and fungi) reforming on the external façade and sealants.

Mapei’s EWI and Coatings portfolio includes a wide range of thermal insulation products. For more information, please visit www.mapei.co.uk, or for further details on other Mapei products or training days email info@mapei. co.uk or tel. +44 (0)121 508 6970.

Unique panel solution for Winnersh Triangle

An innovative new insulated composite panel from Panel Systems has been specified on a new multioccupancy office block as part of the prestigious Winnersh Triangle, an 85 acre office and industrial business space in Wokingham, Reading. Panel Systems created a bespoke composite panel comprising laminated toughened glass which was bonded directly to a polysiocyanurate core insulation material with a 0.7mm coated steel balancer face for added rigidity and to protect the integrity of the glass. The Sheffield-based panel manufacturer produced over 1,000m2 of insulated composite panels for this multi-occupancy office block, creating a stunning effect. Panel Systems– Enquiry 119

Leading weatherproofing brand Thompson’s launches new look and feel

Thompson’s, the leading weatherproofing brand is unveiling a new, modern look and feel –updating its brand tone of voice, packaging and POS.

Focused on delivering premium protection against the British elements, its new ‘BRING IT ON’ strapline will underpin all communications and reinforce Thompson’s tough and reliable brand reputation and product offering.

The ranges – a collection of high performance weatherproofing solutions for domestic and commercial repair and maintenance – will be brought together under this new brand repositioning and their appearance standardised across the board as a result.

Improving recognition and awareness, Thompson’s newly adopted packaging, featuring on products such as its roof repair, water seals and block paving and drive seal ranges, will create stand out in merchants and keep the brand front of mind with DIY enthusiasts and tradespeople alike.

New Schueco slimline façade system is Passive House certified

The continuing drive by Schueco to combine the slimmest possible face-widths with the highest possible thermal performance is demonstrated by the UK launch of the Schueco FWS 35 PD Panorama Design façade system.

This innovative new aluminium façade has a uniquely slim face-width of just 35 mm, yet the SI version is officially certified by the Passive House Institute with a Ucw value of 0.79 W/m2K. Visually very attractive, the system is ideally suited for lowrise, high-end residential and commercial projects.

A choice of two levels of insulation is offered – HI (highly insulated) or SI (super-insulated) – enabling the Schueco FWS 35 PD façade to offer real performance flexibility according to specification needs.

Importantly, Schueco AWS windows, including those with TipTronic automated operation, can be integrated easily where necessary, for ventilation. Alternatively, Schueco AWS 114 SG.SI slimline outward-opening top-hung windows or parallelopening windows can be fitted.

The Schueco FWS 35 PD façade system can accommodate double and triple glazed units from 22 mm to 50 mm thick with weights up to 250 kg per transom. Also available is a heavy duty version that can carry up to 400 kg.

Bellway Homes specify Forticrete roof tiles for luxury housing development

Forticrete’s innovative Gemini roof tile in Jacobean and Mixed Russet and its inspiring Minislate roof tile in Welsh Blue and Slate Grey have been specified by Bellway Homes for the construction of Newland Manor, a multi-million pound development comprising 39 three, four and five bedroom quality family homes in Droitwich, Worcestershire. With direct transport links to Birmingham and Worcester, Newland Manor is situated within immaculately landscaped grounds on a quiet country lane to the south of historic spa town, Droitwich Spa. The new development comprises 12 affordable homes and 27 private dwellings. Forticrete

Further strengthening the brand’s refresh and its 80 years of expertise, the launch follows with a series of radio and print advertisements (September) plus a revitalised website (July). The website has an easy to navigate format and accommodates tradespeople seeking tips on product selection and advice on application.

Thompson’s – Enquiry 120

To complete the product’s comprehensive performance characteristics, a burglar resistance class to EN 1627 RC2 can be achieved which also meets the requirements of PAS 24 : 2012.

For further details of the Schueco FWS 35 PD Panoramic Design façade system, please e-mail mkinfobox@schueco.com

SSQ Slate release its roofing

solutions brochure

Recognising the need to provide architects, contractors and specifiers with a solutions based document, SSQ Slate has released its new slate brochure, highlighting the numerous benefits that natural slate offers. The 27-page brochure, which is available to download directly from the SSQ website, looks at the technical benefits behind natural slate and features various examples of how SSQ’s slate can be used – no matter what the design requirements. From low-pitched to curved roofing, heritage projects and dimensional cladding, SSQ’s new brochure focuses on a variety of roofing and cladding methods.

SSQ Slate – Enquiry 123

The vital role of colour consultancy

THE DEMAND FOR COLOUR CONSULTANCY HAS GROWN RAPIDLY IN RECENT YEARS, AS BUILDING DESIGNERS AND PROJECT MANAGERS HAVE COME TO RECOGNISE THE POWER OF COLOUR – AND IN PARTICULAR THE PSYCHOLOGY OF COLOUR – TO TRANSFORM SPACES AND THE WAY PEOPLE USE THEM.

earning environments are an important focus for colour consultancy work, and the growing body of research that demonstrates the potential impact of colour on the learning experiences of people of all ages and abilities is fuelling investment in colour makeovers.

Those responsible for the management of facilities are teaming up with paint manufacturers, such as Johnstone’s Trade, to gain access to expertise and experience that is vital to the successful use of colour to transform spaces. A recent community project in Milton Keynes demonstrated how colour consultancy can deliver a dramatic impact.

MK Snap is a community facility that provides vital support to learners with a range of disabilities and challenges.

This year, the MK Snap centre, utilised by over 100 people on a daily basis, benefited

from a colour makeover led by Mitie, with product and colour support provided by Johnstone’s Trade.

The colour consultancy process began with a site survey to take into account the substrates and existing colours of all areas to be painted, and detailed discussions with the facility’s management team to outline the fundamental aims of the project. The team also provided on-site support in calculating how much paint was required.

Colour consultants from Johnstone’s Trade used photographs of the MK Snap building to super-impose colours into various rooms and spaces. This was to offer a visual representation of how the finished result could look. Once colour schemes were established, colour boards were distributed around everyone involved in the project, and final adjustments made.

Colour decisions were heavily influenced by the psychology of colour and in conjunction with the unique requirements of MK Snap and its learners.

MK Snap’s blue branding was adapted for the building’s entrance reception and atrium to create a sense of calm to welcome visitors to the building, but other areas of the building required colour schemes with an energising effect.

Areas requiring creativity, energy, and learner encouragement were assigned ‘active’ colour

choices. For example, the centre’s craft room had a vibrant yellow feature wall to bring connotations of happiness, creativity, confidence and optimism to the space.

The association between the colour orange and nutrition informed the choice of a vibrant orange for the centre’s kitchen, whereas the breakout area where learners relax was painted in a restful green.

One of the most challenging spaces was the centre’s sports hall, which features high walls and required a colour split to ensure visual contrast between the walls and any sporting equipment that would need to be clearly seen against the backdrop.

The hall is also used for other activities such as yoga and dancing, which led to the choice of grey with an undertone of meditative purple for the space.

MK Snap’s initial aim of using colour to reflect the high-energy atmosphere of the learning environment was taken a step further through the work done by Mitie and Johnstone’s Trade.

The tailored approach taken by colour consultants ensured the purpose of each part of the building was carefully considered, and the colour selections have combined to create, in the words of MK Snap’s chief executive Maureen McColl, “a true, brighter futures building”. Johnstone’s Paints

Sadolin’s New Beautiflex – A Beautiful, Flexible Finish for Wood Takes Shape

Offering a new dimension in superior wood care, Sadolin Beautiflex delivers a beautiful, flexible finish with long term protection in a wide spectrum of opaque shades. Ideal for all new, bare or previously coated exterior wood, including decking, this solvent opaque woodstain can be applied in colder temperatures, enabling wood protection projects to take place outside the typical outdoor season. With added HALS, all shades benefit from exceptional light fastness and are designed to retain their colour integrity for the long term by protecting the coating from UV damage. Colour is also a key component of the new range with 3 ready mixed colours and 42 tinted shades available for variety of choice.

Sadolin – Enquiry 127

Crown Trade Protective Coatings puts a shine on seaside attraction

Street furniture along a stretch of the South Wales coast is being given a new lease of life – and protected for the long term against the elements – with Crown Trade Protective Coatings’ Metal Gloss system. Crown Trade Metal Gloss system was specified, to deliver maximum protection and highly attractive looks in-keeping with the area’s position as a major visitor attraction. Offering superior corrosion protection, a tough finish and an excellent colour offer, Crown Trade Metal Gloss system protects any correctly prepared new or previously painted ferrous or non-ferrous metalwork, including structural steelwork, railings, fire escapes, gates and shutters.

Crown Trade – Enquiry 131

Mapei’s new Ultrabond Eco VS90 Plus

Mapei is pleased to announce the recent launch of Ultrabond Eco VS90 Plus to its range of Ultrabond Eco Adhesives.

Ultrabond Eco VS90 Plus is a ready to use, light beige paste, which benefits from a fast, strong initial grab, allowing traffic after only 3-5 hours. This universal high temperature acrylic, wet-bed dispersion adhesive, bonds vinyl/rubber sheet and tile, PVC-backed carpet and luxury vinyl tiles with ease. The adhesive can be used with underfloor heating systems.

Ultrabond Eco VS90 Plus is extremely easy to apply with good peel strength with high resistant to shear stresses, with the added advantage of being a high temperature adhesive. It can also be specified to install floor coverings in many environments including those subjected to chairs with castors.

Ultrabond Eco VS90 Plus is solvent-free and classified as EC1 Plus under the GEV EMICODE accreditation system. The environmentally friendly adhesive is extremely versatile in its use and consequently has a universal application range, being ideal for bonding many textile floorcoverings with all common backings. The range now includes seven high quality adhesives for the installation of all types of resilient floorcoverings. These adhesives offer exceptional performance, as well as providing a raft of health and eco-benefits.

All products carry EC1 GEV Emicode labelling for ultra-low emissions of volatile organic compounds.

Mapei – Enquiry 129

Waterproofing Simplified with

Remmers Multi Tight 2K

Multi-Tight 2K is a new, flexible, mineral based waterproofing product which has all the performance properties of older technology polymer-modified thick bitumen emulsions, whilst being “bitumen free”. Using unique rubber granulate filler technology Multi-Tight 2K has a crack-bridging capacity which is five times more effective than standard flexible mineral-based waterproofing systems. The versatility of the product allows it to be used to waterproof below ground externally and internally offering excellent resistance to ground or water pressure as well as frost and salts.

Remmers – Enquiry 128

Sampling times with Sadolin Superdec

With more than 300 shades on the colour card, specifiers are spoilt for choice when looking for the right hue with Sadolin Superdec. Now it’s easier than ever to test out the wide-range of options available with the launch of a new 250ml sized can. Over 260 shades can be produced in this sample pot size, enabling specifiers to see the complete picture before committing to a preferred colour scheme. Sadolin Superdec is renowned for its comprehensive colour palette, as well as its outstanding protective qualities, which together make it one of the most popular ranges within the Sadolin brand for specifiers.

Sadolin – Enquiry 130

Johnstone’s helps create bold artistic statement

Johnstone’s Trade has once again demonstrated its eye for creativity after one of its products was used to aid in the development of a series of summer exhibitions in London. Using Johnstone’s Aluminium Paint, the exhibition is designed to reflect the changing weather conditions the roof is exposed to, unifying and activating the spectacular roof space through the summer months. Johnstone’s Aluminium Paint is a solvent-based, protective metallic finish that can withstand temperatures up to 150ºC. In addition, its brilliant lustre has the added benefit of solar reflective properties.

Johnstone’s – Enquiry 132

Center Parcs success for AkzoNobel

Center Parcs revolutionised the holiday market in Holland over 40 years ago and did the same in the UK when it opened its first Village at Sherwood Forest in July 1987, providing short break holidays in the forest on a year-round basis. In December 2004, Center Parcs announced it had identified a location for a fifth UK site at Woburn Forest, Bedfordshire. The Woburn Forest project involved the construction of accommodation, indoor and outdoor facilities, sub-tropical swimming complex, restaurants and a spa

rested on the expertise of AkzoNobel in supplying two of their hugely popular products which would meet this specification perfectly

Sikkens Cetol WP 560 from AkzoNobel is a waterborne, translucent base stain ideal for wooden windows and doors that are made of hardwood for either the interior or the exterior It provides deep penetration, is wood moisture regulating and offers a high quality colour outline Sikkens Cetol WP 560 also has good UV protection and is water thinnable, which means equipment can also be cleaned easily

The second product from AkzoNobel that would be gracing the project would be their popular Sikkens Rubbol WF 378 fully factory finished system A waterbor ne coating that is an opaque satin gloss mid and finish coat for wooden constructions that have either an exterior or interior finish This would of course would be another ideal choice for this ‘forest bor ne’ project Sikkens Rubbol WF 378 offers good levelling and has great weather resistance It is ideal for spraying onto windows and doors and is also water thinnable enabling equipment to be cleaned with ease

This extremely high profile project by a World class manufacturer would need to partner with outstanding suppliers and professionals to deliver a stunning and entertaining destination venue Blackburn-based AkzoNobel would feature very heavily in the final phase of the project

AkzoNobel is a leading global paints and coatings company and a major producer of specialty chemicals Calling on centuries of expertise, they supply industries and consumers worldwide with innovative products and sustainable technologies designed to meet the growing demands of our fast-changing planet Headquartered in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, they have approximately 47,000 people in around 80 countries and their portfolio includes well-known industrial wood coatings brands such as Sikkens, ICLA and Zweihorn Consistently ranked as one of the leaders in the area of sustainability, they are committed to making life more liveable and our cities more human

Maryport-based West Port Timber Window and Door Technology were awarded the contract by

the main contractor ISG to provide the new holiday Village with 4,000 timber System X windows and 2,000 timber doors And West Port needed the assistance of AkzoNobel to help them fulfil the high demands of the project

Carl Circus, UK Distribution Manager, AkzoNobel Wood Coatings commented, “The Center Parcs project was for us, a hugely high profile contract and one that we at the time relished supplying It’s always great to see our products matching up to the exact specifications and demanding needs of our customers ”

All of the West Port timber windows and doors provided to the site were painted in a specific brown as requested by Center Parcs, enabling the windows to blend into the building and surrounding area No easy task and the choice of coatings would be crucial

Sean Parnaby, West Port commented, “Colour was a major part of the decision in specifying the product and working with our partner AkzoNobel we were able to match exactly the colour requested by the client ”

Each of the 625 Forest lodges had been provided with a timber front door with electronic locks and a sliding patio door giving the living area more light The final specification of the coatings for these lodges would need to harmonise with the natural surroundings, look great and be durable The ideal coatings solution for this project

The project would need one coat of WP560 and two coats of WF 378 in RAL 8011 shade

Sean Parnaby finally added, “The end result of the lodges looked brilliant with the timber windows and doors due to the colour and style used ”

To see the list of UK and Ireland distributors www.sikkens-wood-coatings.co.uk/en/home.html

©Sikkens Wood Coatings

Inside products insight

NEW PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT

FEATURES HEAVILY THIS MONTH ACROSS A LOT OF DIFFERENT AREAS.

PRODUCTS FROM THE TOTAL GLASS EXTENSIVE ALUMINIUM FAÇADE, WINDOW AND DOOR PORTFOLIO WERE USED IN THE CONSTRUCTION OF TWO NEW £5 MILLION SPECIAL NEEDS SCHOOLS IN LIVERPOOL.

Constructed by main contractor Willmott Dixon, Redbridge High Community Special School is co-located with Bank View High Special School on the site of former allotments in Long Lane. The two buildings allow the support of 270 special needs pupils in the city.

Total Glass supplied and installed aluminium curtain walling, windows and doors during the six-month phased project, which features Sapa Dualframe 75mm Si windows and Sapa ST thermally-broken commercial entrance doors in a matching finish.

Providing additional security within the buildings are 28 automatic opening entrance doors, along with six sliding doors. All windows incorporate Sunguard SN70/37 solar-controlled glass to allow for maximum light transmission, while reducing solar gain and preventing excessive heat build-up.

The frames are polyester powder-coated in RAL 7001M and RAL 7011M finishes.

Stuart Holt, Total Glass Commercial Aluminium Manager said: “From the outset, our team was heavily involved with the window design, which included bespoke aluminium cladding in deep recesses around the frames.

Roller shutters were also installed on the externally-facing windows for extra security when the schools are closed.”

Paul Groves takes a look at this month’s product news

new extended quality control laboratory is fully open

Mapei are pleased to announce the opening of its newly extended and modernised Quality Control Laboratory. This expansion makes the Mapei UK QC Laboratory the largest of the European subsidiaries, and is testament to the group’s continued commitment to quality, testing and improvement.

The Laboratory will facilitate extra equipment and new test methods to support the increase of business demand and growth. The 60m² extension (from the original 100m²) has been planned, designed and carried out over the last 18 months, and includes two new state-of-the-art conditioning units along with a complete facelift of the Laboratory including new floors, ceilings, lighting, sinks, extra benches as well as new testing equipment.

The first step of the Laboratory extension involved the removal of the current central wall to incorporate the unconditioned room, adjacent to the main Laboratory, to increase the conditioned area from 100m² to 160m². The improved space will be dedicated to testing activities in an efficient way and also provide more room for additional machinery to be added.

This Laboratory is fully opened and will allow an increase of R&D activity and testing demands as required by the market and increase the range of Mapei products in the UK construction industry. Mapei strive to minimise its carbon footprint to help work towards a ‘greener’ future with its extensive investment (5% of group turnover per annum) in R&D into the development of solvent-free and low emissions products. In addition, these standards comply with local and government policies. For more information about Mapei, please visit www.mapei.co.uk, email info@mapei.co.uk or tel. +44 (0)121 508 6970.

– Enquiry 134

Improvements from the outside, in

A portion of Falkirk Council’s hard to treat social housing stock has recently benefitted from Sto’s external wall insulation in order to meet the requirements of the newest Scottish Housing Quality Standard (SHQS).

The refurbishment in Avonbridge – a small village in Scotland - is part of Falkirk’s wider plan to ensure its housing stock rented from social landlords meets The SHQS - introduced by the Scottish Government in February 2004 – with the target that all homes rented from social landlords should meet this standard by April 2015.

Around forty semi-detached and terrace homes in Avonbridge were built without cavity walls making the properties prone to cold and damp as well as high energy bills. The required U-value 0.22 W/m2K was achieved with StoTherm Classic with turbo fix and installed by G&R Ross Ltd. External wall insulation provides a significant improvement in the thermal performance of the vast majority of wall constructions and doesn’t intrude on inside space, which makes it an attractive option for council refurbishments, as tenants are not required to leave the premises.

Sto-Turbofix was specified as it requires less fixings than competitors, is quicker and it complies with the council’s strict health and safety policy. Hand-arm vibration syndrome is triggered by continuous use of vibrating handheld machinery so specifying Turbofix avoids this problem altogether as it is a single component, polyurethane based adhesive which is dispensed using a pistol and hose, providing material on demand.

Sto technical advisors assisted the project from the start in November 2013 to the end in April 2014. Falkirk Council are delighted with the completed works as are the Avonbridge tenants due to a much improved aesthetic and lower energy bills.

Sto – Enquiry 135

Multi-coloured grab rails – add some colour

Barwood Products stocks a wide range of grab rails in popular, standard colours and sizes to satisfy quick delivery requirements.

Recently the company has been fulfilling orders for their special order rainbow range of grab rails and hinged arms which were designed to add a dash of colour to rooms designed to help people with mobility issues and even dementia. The attractive, brightly coloured rails are made to order in any RAL colour and to any size thanks to the bespoke manufacturing capability of the Staffordshire -based business.

Barwood Products – Enquiry 137

Panorama LCD displays from Avire installed in Kingold Century Project’s lifts

LCD displays from Avire have been installed in lifts at the Kingold Century Project in Zhujiang New Town, Guangzhou, China. Two E-Motive Panorama displays are currently entertaining passengers using the building’s high-speed Mitsubishi lifts. A further 21 displays are due to be fitted before the end of 2015. The Panorama offers an ultra-wide aspect ratio that enhances building space, providing greater flexibility for users to design screen layouts. The display can provide floor level-synchronised tenant content and is available in screen sizes of 19, 28 and 38 inches.

Avire – Enquiry 136

DuPont Corian from CD UK makes a stylish entrance in Soho

CD UK has suppliedDuPont Corian to the reception area of a multi-let office building in Soho, London. Fabricator Clarke Rendall worked to a design that required ultimate flexibility for aseamless monolithic 4.1m thermoformed reception desk in ‘Glacier White’ Corian, featuring conical end profiles, 2.2m acute angled return and a sculpted counter top with integral storage and data communications points. Additional seating in the reception area comprised two2m bespoke tapered kidney shaped sofa units also finished in thermoformed ‘Glacier White’ Corian with conical profiles. Soft seating tops were wrapped in ‘Melrose Pumpkin’ fabric for extra impact.

CD UK – Enquiry 138

Mapei’s

Mapei

Vandersanden supplies bricks for London’s Hallsville Quarter

BELGIAN BRICK AND PAVERS MANUFACTURER, VANDERSANDEN GROUP, HAS SUPPLIED THE FACING BRICKS USED TO CONSTRUCT PHASE ONE OF LONDON’S HALLSVILLE QUARTER IN EAST LONDON. FOR THE INITIAL PHASE OF THIS SIGNIFICANT PROJECT, 420,000 DRAYTON CREAM, CREASE TEXTURED, UNICOLOURED SOFT YELLOW BRICKS WERE USED FOR THE EXTERNAL WALLS OF THE DEVELOPMENT.

Hallsville Quarter is a key part of Newham Council’s £3.7 billion Canning Town and Custom House Regeneration Programme. Set to be completed over five phases, Hallsville Quarter is one of London’s largest regeneration schemes including 1,100 mixed tenure housing units and more than 323,000 sq ft of leisure and retail space. The initial phase, which is now finished, included the creation of 179 residential units and a Morrisons supermarket.

Marco Solberg, Vandersanden Export Area Manager commented;’This is a major and prestigious job and we are proud to be a part of it. The design and build nature of the construction meant that we had to devise a solution for the walls that suited every purpose in a number of different locations, and the Drayton Cream bricks were the ideal choice. We also had the added advantage of being

able to supply the bricks immediately via our exclusive UK distributor, Hoskins Brick. We know many UK brick manufacturers have been struggling to fulfil orders whereas we have stock available. With 2 production sites in Belgium and 2 in the Netherlands, Vandersanden has become one of the largest brick-producing businesses in Europe and we have the ability to upscale production as needed.”

The development is being built by Bouygues UK in partnership with One Housing Group, Mountain Capital and Morrisons. For further information about the Vandersanden Group please visit the company website www.vandersandengroup.co.uk. For specific information regarding the company’s sustainable products and environmental philosophy, please view the following video https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=CJggVUoEtXw .

Vandersanden – Enquiry 139

New animated installation video for the Helifix Dixie micro-pile

Helifix has created a new animation which shows step by step installation procedures for its versatile Dixie micro-pile.

The animation clearly demonstrates how these high performance micro-piles can be used either to stabilise existing buildings that are suffering from subsidence or to help form secure and level foundations for new constructions. The animation can be viewed at www.helifix.co.uk/videos

The well proven and technically advanced Dixie micro-pile is backed by International Code Council (ICC) certification and conforms to AC358, the International Standard for helical foundation underpinning systems.

Helifix – Enquiry 140

Sika completes high quality concrete tower block refurb

Sika has provided a fast, efficient and long term concrete repair solution to the balconies at Sunningdale Heights, on the Wirral, currently under repair as part of an ambitious £32 million refurbishment. With its ability to be laid and trafficked in the same day the fast cure Sikafloor-415 Elastomeric walkway and balcony system was the ideal solution. Sika concrete repair systems have an impressive track record which goes back more than 15 years and conform to the performance requirements of EN 1504: the European Standard for the protection and repair of reinforced concrete.

Sika – Enquiry 141

To make an enquiry – Go online: www.enquire.to/spec Send a fax: 01952 234002 or post our: Free Reader Enquiry Card

Patinated Brass Side Sectional Door by Rundum Meir

Rundum Meir created a bespoke side sectional patinated brass door, which was fitted to match the external façade of a new build house in central London.

The door has been fitted with a proven remote controlled automation, which makes use of a cast aluminium C channel that adds to the aesthetic design. Using Rundum Meir garage doors gives the specifier flexible layout options with almost any size door available. They use quality components and hardware from running gear to remote controls. Manual or unique remote control operation is available.

Rundum Meir – Enquiry 142

Tiles that sell themselves

Completely aware of his options, Michael Kelly, Branch Manager at Fleming Buildbase in Inverness, opted for Redland’s Mini Stonewold in Charcoal Grey for his own home because of the great looking slate and the quality service he knows comes with the product.

Selling construction materials is a day-to-day job for Kelly who understands that service is a key part of selling anything. When it came to building his own home for his family in Inverness, Kelly took no chances and went for Redland.

The large self-build home in Inverness consists of four bedrooms, four bathrooms, two large living areas, kitchen and a garage and is perfect for the family’s needs. The detached home required over 3000 Mini Stonewolds for the L-shaped roof with twin dormers, front and back.

The complete package provided by the team at Redland made life easy for Kelly when selecting the tile range and delivery to site. Kelly praised the efforts of the Redland team.

“I sell these products at Fleming Buildbase so I understand how important service is when it comes to the overall product and Redland really do have a great reputation,” Kelly said.

“When Redland released its Mini Stonewold in Charcoal Grey in 2014 I knew that I wanted them for my own home and the fact that Redland give you the full package is an added benefit. In the end the price didn’t even come into it because the service package that was provided was amazing.”

The Mini Stonewold is a flat concrete slate which can be laid as low as 17.5° and is Redland’s most economical concrete slate with interlocking edges for simple construction, reducing the laid cost of the roof.

Redland – Enquiry 143

Adding the finishing touches with Washroom Washroom

Washroom design and manufacturer, Washroom Washroom, has extended its range to include an array of high end accessories, designed to complement its exclusive Iconica collection.

The new collection, which can be viewed in full in Washroom’s new online accessories brochure, features an unrivalled range of high quality accessories from industry leading manufacturers, Dolphin Dispensers, Saneux and Modric.

Leading the collection, which includes dispensers, door handles, flushes, taps and bins, is Dolphin’s new modular wash, soap and dry system, Alavo.

The innovative Alavo system has been developed to provide the perfect balance between being practical and aesthetically pleasing. Designed to save water, soap and energy, the Alavo system is also easy to maintain and refill, saving time as well as money. The unique ‘plug and play’ design of the module significantly reduces installation time, making it a popular choice.

The new collection also includes unique, designled products including architectural ironmongery from the Allgood range by Modric and crafted oak door handles from the Holt range also from Modric.

All the accessories in the collection have been carefully chosen to complement Washroom’s exclusive Iconica Collection, which provides a unique range of materials and finishes not traditionally associated with washrooms and is an ideal way to add the finishing touches to complement any washroom design.

For more information on the range of services and products offered by Washroom Washroom, please visit www.washroom.co.uk, call 0800 999 8888 or email sales@washroom.co.uk.

Ubbink offering more to flat roof ventilation

Ubbink group have manufactured and supplied the UK market with flat roof vents and terminals for over thirty years. The range has grown in previous years with the introduction of terminals which have the ability to duct from 100mm to 180mm. Previously there has been some confusion for specifiers when trying to source the correct flat roof vent or terminal to suit their project. Therefore Ubbink group have produced a wider range of flanges to help aid specifiers and installers fit ventilation with ease. There are 3 new flanges to add to the existing range of felt and asphalt Ubbink already offer; PVC, EPDM and Bitumen.

Ubbink

Twyford’s e100 mirror cabinets add the perfect finishing touch to contemporary bathrooms

Twyford has added three new slim-line mirror cabinets to its popular e100 range which match its new 500mm, 550mm and 600mm vanity units and are backed by a two-year guarantee. The cabinets are designed with features to optimise storage within a space-saving footprint, while offering a quality product at entry-level pricing. The narrow 179mm projection of the cabinets means that they do not impinge on the washbasin space. A folddown door under the mirror provides extra storage and doubles as a useful shelf with everything at eye-line for easy access.

Twyford – Enquiry 145

Velocity Village gets a striking new look with Aluglaze

Architectural panel manufacturer Panel Systems has supplied Aluglaze infill panels for Velocity Village, which is close to the centre of Sheffield and consists of 443 residential apartments and 64,000 sq ft of office accommodation.

Panel Systems supplied 400m² of Aluglaze panels on call-off for the eight storey building, over an 18 month period. The panels were supplied in a grey powder coated finish, with each panel pressed into a bespoke boot-shape design. This added to the building’s aesthetics and complemented its contemporary architecture, which included full height glazing. Panel Systems – Enquiry 147

Washroom Washroom – Enquiry 144

DOYMA puts the seal on protection systems

DOYMA is a world-leading manufacturer of sealing and fire protection products used to seal penetration points through walls and floors to permanently prevent any infiltration of gases and water into the building.

With over 40 years’ experience, DOYMA operates in the three core fields of expertise for civil engineering, building services and energy supply providing the market with ducting systems for pipes and cables, single and multi-service ducts and fire protection products for preventive structural fire protection.

DOYMA has released a new brochure that covers the company’s extensive product range.

Interflow – Enquiry 148

Securikey’s low cost key tracking solution offered as standard

New Gradus safety and protection systems

Gradus has extended its product offering by launching a comprehensive range of safety and protection systems designed to protect buildings, vehicles and equipment from damage, whilst also improving pedestrian safety.

Gradus’ Safety & Protection Systems is a collection of products designed to provide wheeled traffic with visual and physical barriers to impact, minimise damage when impact does occur and improve pedestrian safety by segregating pedestrian walkways from vehicle routes.

The new range comprises a selection of heavyduty products that are suitable for specification in areas such as car parks, loading bays and service corridors.

Securikey has extended the functionality offered by its extensive range of high security key cabinets, vaults and key filing systems, by incorporating the innovative closed loop feature across all steel door models as standard. Securikey’s closed loop system offers a reliable, low cost solution for homeowners or business owners who, in addition to controlling the use of day-to-day keys, also need to monitor the use of specific ‘high importance’ keys but without the expense of complex high tech systems. The types of keys that require usage monitoring can range from a homeowner’s spare car or safe key, to master keys for blocks of flats used by estate agents or high value car keys at car dealerships. Steel loops are moulded onto the back wall of each Securikey key cabinet and tamper-resistant seals are supplied, allowing customers to fasten selected keys in place so they cannot be removed without detection. These loops are accessed by removing the top hook bar within the cabinet, which can then be replaced to cover the sealed keys if desired to allow the full complement of hooks to be used, as well as providing additional security by ensuring ‘high importance’ keys are kept out of sight. The number of loops varies depending on the size of the Securikey key cabinet required, from three loops in a 20 hook cabinet to seven in a 100 hook cabinet. Cabinets are constructed from pressed and folded steel and can be secured with a choice of locking options depending on the model selected, from traditional key locks to a range of electronic locks. All high security key control systems are tested to the highest standards to enable reliable safeguarding against lost or stolen keys. A 3mm steel body and 6mm slab door, mounted on concealed hinges, offer impressive resistance to attack, whilst meeting another practical need in the form of a powder coating for easy cleaning in a sterile environment.

Securikey – Enquiry 149

Specflue launches next generation of HIUs

The next generation of Heat Interface Units (HIU) have been launched.

Manufactured by Thermal Integration and distributed by Specflue, the DATA has been designed for better performance and ease of use, in properties where the domestic hot water and central heating is supplied through a district heating system using a central boiler. Delivering the same benefits of traditional HIUs, they are unique in their capability to communicate digitally with each other, the occupant and the building’s computerised management systems.

The main advantage of using the DATA, which has the ability to operate from primary flow temperatures as little as 65ºC, is the ability to harness advancing technologies, such as CHP, biomass, heat pumps, waste incineration and solar. These are mostly uneconomical to employ in individual properties, but can now be utilised and combined, using the DATA, to generate heat to numerous properties.

The DATA is one of the smallest, but most advanced HIU on the market and can be installed within a standard kitchen cupboard. Each unit is capable of producing up to 75kW domestic hot water and 20kW indirect central heating, with standing losses less than 50 watts.

Specflue – Enquiry 150

New Aico 160e series: the next step in alarm evolution

Aico, UK’s market leader in domestic mains powered Fire and Carbon Monoxide (CO) detection, unveils the latest in Smoke and Heat Alarm technology with its new 160e Series. The alarms have been completely redesigned to lend themselves to suiting most modern properties and to complement the latest Aico accessories. The new 160e design is up to 18% slimmer when compared to the previous 160RC Series alarms allowing them to be less obtrusive in the room, whilst maintaining the same easi-fit footprint making it simple to upgrade from previous Aico alarms. The units have been made easier to install.

Aico – Enquiry 152

REHAU fully reversible windows chosen for luxury care home

Specialist commercial fabricator Walker Profiles has supplied and installed more than 200 windows and doors in the hugely versatile REHAU TOTAL70R system in a newly opened, luxury care home for the elderly.

Templeton House is situated in a conservation area in the Scottish coastal town of Ayr and successfully blends historic and contemporary design, with a traditional villa façade retained alongside a new modern pavilion.

Motherwell based Walker Profiles were chosen for the project by main contractors Cruden Building and Renewals who had worked with the company previously and were confident that their team could meet the challenging aspects of the design by Robert Potter Architects.

This included the fabrication and installation of two sets of large multi-faceted bay windows on both the ground and first floors of the new pavilion.

Throughout the project, Walker Profiles has installed windows in the innovative REHAU TOTAL70R fully reversible window system. This system has a flush fitting sash and frame with slim sightlines which suited this contemporary setting, as well as being practical in terms of cleaning and ventilation.

REHAU TOTAL70R is also a multi-chamber profile which means it offers high levels of thermal performance, with the option of triple glazing if required.

At Templeton Care Home, Walker Profiles installed the windows in all 72 of the ensuite rooms arranged over three floors, as well as glazed external doors leading to the garden and patio areas.

REHAU – Enquiry 153

Top residential development opens with TORMAX access

Residents of the outstanding ISLAND development in Croydon, enjoy smooth access into the contemporary, staffed reception area through a prestigious entrance system designed and installed by TORMAX. Featuring a minimalist full-glass, three wing revolving door, foot traffic is kept flowing at all times, whilst the internal ambience is maintained thanks to minimal heat loss from the internal space, out through the door.

ISLAND is a commanding 20-storey tower set just a short walk from Croydon’s newly regenerated town centre. It has been designed and finished to an exceptionally high standard throughout with terraces and balconies allowing the wide-open views to be fully appreciated. “We have a reputation for creating modern and contemporary living spaces of outstanding quality which has established us as one of London’s foremost developers of luxury residential apartments, homes and properties,” confirms Jason Harris, Managing Director, for Regency Homes. “The TORMAX glass revolving door at the entrance of the tower, perfectly sets the tone for the rest of the development.”

With over 60 years expertise in the design, manufacture and installation of high quality bespoke automatic and manual entrances, TORMAX is recognised worldwide as a market leader.

“Residents of high-end developments such as this demand a visual stunning entrance,” comments Simon Roberts, MD for TORMAX. “The full-glass revolving door successfully combines traditional elegance with minimalist modernism whilst the reduced heat loss from the reception positively contributes to sustainability of the building.”

TORMAX – Enquiry 154

Sustainable Faber Blinds products feature in new landmark project

Faber Blinds is helping to inspire the next generation of landscape professionals and raise awareness of green infrastructure at the RHS Hyde Hall’s new Learning Centre. The company, part of the Hunter Douglas Group, has supplied solar shading solutions for the £3m new facility. Faber’s 1800 FTS system has been utilised at the visitor centre. Faber 1800 FTS is an efficient and flexible internal motorised blind system that can be used in pitched or horizontal roof light windows. The hardware of the blind can be fully enclosed in a square head box and there is a choice of various side channels to suit all applications.

Hunter Douglas – Enquiry 156

Powerturn from GEZE makes access for all a breeze

Powerturn is an automatic swing door drive that can be used manually thanks to GEZE UK’s new Smart swing function so that even children and people with restricted mobility can easily open large or heavy doors.

Powerturn provides architects with a truly flexible design and accessibility solution. It is ideal for use on internal and external doors and is suitable for single or double leaf doors. It can be integrated with other door control systems including heat and smoke ventilation systems or complex security systems with interlocking doors.

GEZE – Enquiry

155

Levolux helps Suffolk go green

A bold new ‘Energy from Waste’ facility in Great Blakenham, Suffolk, is having a surprisingly positive impact on the Suffolk landscape, thanks to an Aerofoil Fin screening solution from Levolux.

The custom solution comprises aerofoil-shaped louvres each measuring 500mm wide by 50mm thick, applied across each of the building’s four elevations. The extruded aluminium Louvres are set at a pitch of 750mm, assembled into panels using aluminium side-plates.

The louvred panels, with free spans of up to 3.6 metres, combine to cover almost 4500 square metres of the external façade.

Levolux – Enquiry 157

Sensational Singapore success for Gerflor who supply over 107,000m2

Jurong Health provides healthcare services and care processes for the community in the west of Singapore and awarded a flooring contract to Gerflor, with local distributor partner NSK Baustoffe (S) Pte Ltd managing the installation. The wards and general visitor areas used 85,000m2 of Gerflor’s Tarasafe Ultra slip resistant safety flooring. A further 12,500m2 of Gerflors’ Taralay Premium flooring was specified for corridors. The VIP rooms needed flooring that could provide good levels of sound insulation and comfort, so feature 8,500m2 of Gerflor’s Taralay Impression Comfort Wood.

Gerflor – Enquiry 173

Wood grill ceiling adds design detail to £6 million shared workspace development

A £6m business development in Northumberland features a high quality grill ceiling by global architectural products company Hunter Douglas. Hunter Douglas designed and supplied 223m2 of wood grill for demountable ceiling. Designed by Robin Parsons of Xsite Architecture, the ceiling is made from Magma fire-treated African Ayous and was supplied in module 4-70-15-45, reflecting the Scandinavian cues used in the internal shopfitting, as well as provide a finish that could continue seamlessly from the external soffit through to the internal ceiling. The high-specification building was commended by RICS.

Hunter Douglas – Enquiry 162

Polyflor spaceship design installed at Chesterfield Royal Hospital’s Nightingale Ward

An “out of this world” flooring design using Polyflor’s vinyl flooring helped bring an extra dose of fun to a play room at the Nightingale children’s ward at Chesterfield Royal Hospital recently. Polyflor’s Pearlazzo PUR vinyl sheet flooring in Purple Crush 9722 was used as the backdrop to the play area’s space themed designs which were a mixture of colours from the Pearlazzo PUR, 2000 PUR, Classic Mystique and XL PU homogeneous vinyl ranges. Polyflor’s experienced Design Service works frequently with specifiers to create bespoke design floors.

Polyflor – Enquiry 158

Forbo redefines flooring online

Forbo Flooring Systems has re-launched its website, providing a definitive online interface for specifiers, installers and clients that offers useful tools, design inspirations and in-depth technical resource across all market segments.

Now visitors to www.forboflooring.co.uk will find a site that is visually inspiring, easier to navigate, with access to both ‘how to’ YouTube guides and downloadable information just a few clicks away.

The guiding principle behind the new website from Forbo is to deliver what visitors to the site are looking for simply, intuitively and with as few ‘clicks’ as possible.

Forbo – Enquiry 160

Itec wakes up Sleep

High performance sheet flooring from Itec Contract Floors will be at this year’s Sleep event as the brand looks to improving recognition as an ideal solution in hospitality environments. Itec Contract Floors is exhibiting under parent, IVC Group, Stand G28. Providing low maintenance, high durability and appearance retention Itec floors provide decorative, safety and acoustic solutions in an extraordinary range of decors. Itec has been responsible for turning sheet flooring from a utilitarian option for back of house into a serious contender for main areas. Ideally suited to receptions, corridors and bar areas, Itec floors deliver exceptional value.

Itec – Enquiry 159

Polyflor flooring creates uplifting dementia care environment at Cwmgelli Lodge

Polyflor’s vinyl flooring was recently used to create a fresh and spacious environment at Cwmgelli Lodge care facility. Wood effect Forest fx PUR sheet vinyl in American Oak was installed throughout the Lodge’s communal areas, circulation spaces, café and dining areas as well as bedrooms. Polysafe Standard PUR safety flooring was also installed to provide sustainable wet slip resistance for residents in en suite bathrooms. Available in 14 shades, the Forest fx collection is a practical and durable vinyl sheet format suitable for very heavy commercial installations such as healthcare environments.

Polyflor – Enquiry 161

More reach out for Osmo UK’s Moravia flooring

Osmo UK is proudly partnered with European oak flooring specialists, ESCO. Providing a selection of ESCO flooring prefinished with Osmo Polyx-Oil, the flooring requires no additional coatings and can be ready to walk on in hours, not days, after installation. One of the most popular styles is Moravia. The rustic oak and specific brushing treatment makes the wood’s knots and cracks appear deeper in the board, creating a stunning and unique texture. Moravia is available in eight light to dark shades. For more information, visit www.osmouk.com and www.escogroup.cz/en

Osmo – Enquiry 163

Marsh Industries - Products for all site demands

MARSH INDUSTRIES LIMITED IS A UK MARKET LEADER IN OFF MAINS TECHNOLOGY. FROM ITS MAIN BASE NEAR KETTERING IN NORTHAMPTONSHIRE MARSH IS CURRENTLY MANUFACTURING AND SUPPLYING 80-90 TANKS PER WEEK INTO THE UK MARKET. FROM ITS START JUST OVER 10 YEARS AGO MARSH HAS GONE FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH. MARSH MANUFACTURE AND DISTRIBUTE HIGH QUALITY SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANTS AND OFF MAINS DRAINAGE PRODUCTS FOR DOMESTIC, COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL APPLICATIONS FOR BOTH UK AND OVERSEAS MARKETS.

ll of Marsh Industries’ Sewage Treatment Plants are tested and certified to British Standard EN125663 effluent quality standards and ISO Quality Assurance Schemes. Also offering many other unique products which have been tested and certified and are proven to be better for the environment in a very cost effective way.

Marsh Industries has a policy of continual development making sure that the customer gets the best bespoke off mains solution correct for their specific site requirements. Whether it is a septic tank or cesspool, sewage treatment plant, pump station, grease trap, or rainwater harvesting system, Marsh has a product for all site demands.

Marsh Industries also has a range of tertiary treatment systems from the Polylok filter that can reduce suspended solids by up to 90%. UV treatment for sites discharging to sensitive areas such as bathing sites, and also phosphate reduction plants for phosphate sensitive areas.

Marsh Industries as part of its continued expansion and growth has now opened two new factories in Somerset and Herefordshire. The new facilities will manufacture products for storm attenuation, high volume commercial pump stations and sewage plants. The main plant in Kettering will continue to manufacture its market leading domestic range of domestic off mains products.

A dedicated technical sales team covers these products nationwide, backed with the unique Gaia design programmes that are used for the cost effective product design for sewage plants, pump stations, grease trap and flood and storm attenuation.

Marsh can offer a bespoke solution to your large tank requirements and also have the unique GAIA design process for larger sewage treatment plants.

Marsh has launched a direct quotation for the merchant and engineer specifier www.bespokesewagetreatmentplant.com.

The user friendly site caters for the design of sewage plants for the domestic, commercial and industrial sectors or call the Marsh sales office today on 01933 654582 and one of the commercial team will help advise which is the best bespoke solution for your large tank needs.

Marsh Industries

To make an enquiry – Go online: www.enquire.to/spec Send a fax: 01952 234002 or post our: Free Reader Enquiry

CONSTRUCTION WEEK STORMS NEC Enquiry 165

Featuring nine shows under one roof, the UK’s biggest construction event in decades arrived with a bang last week – as more than 85,000 visitors and over 1,000 exhibitors flocked to UK Construction Week at the Birmingham NEC.

Organised by Media 10, the inaugural six-day event spanned five halls of the exhibition centre and attracted visitors from across the entire spectrum of construction – from high-end architects, interior designers and infrastructure engineers, to self-builders and home renovators.

Providing an event for everyone in the construction industry to be proud of, UK Construction Week began on Tuesday 6 October with eight strictly trade events: the Build Show incorporating Civils Expo, Timber Expo, HVAC 2015, Smart Buildings 2015, Energy 2015, Kitchens and Bathrooms Live, Plant & Machinery Live and the Surface and Materials Show.

Visitors eagerly attended the numerous seminar theatres where well-known TV personalities and industry stalwarts , including Kevin McCloud, George Clarke and Craig Phillips taking to the stage to debate the hottest issues facing construction today. Hosted by leading journalists John Humphrys, Steph McGovern and Krishnan Guru-Murthy, the UKCW Main Stage in particular saw some lively and thought-provoking discussions.

Meanwhile, with a combined purchasing power of around £8.5 billion, the 25,000+ trade attendees included more than 60% of the UK’s biggest names in construction, such as Wilmott Dixon, Travis Perkins, Redrow Homes, Balfour Beatty, Galliford Try and Saint Gobain, as well as over 7,000 individual companies, all discussing current and future projects, with numerous high value orders being placed at the show.

Richard Morey, Group Events Director at Media 10 commented: “It’s an exciting time to be involved in the construction industry. Construction growth is continuing to drive the UK’s economic recovery and with more than 2.2 million people employed in this sector, output and productivity is only set to increase. We recognised that there is a very real desire for an event like this brings the whole industry spectrum together, providing a much needed opportunity to network, learn and do business – as well as simply celebrating the industry at a time of renewed optimism.

“It was an ambitious undertaking but we couldn’t be happier with how the show turned out. There was a real buzz throughout the three days and the quality of visitors has been excellent. We’re also pleased that so many of our housebuilding and architectural visitors really recognised the value and the synergy between Grand Designs Live and the more trade-focused shows. We’re looking forward to developing the show even further over the next few years – we’ve already confirmed the NEC until 2019.”

UK Construction Week has now firmly established itself as the must-attend event for professionals working in all aspects of residential and commercial construction planning and design. UK Construction Week 2016 has been confirmed for October next year.

WIN FOR PORTAKABIN Enquiry 166

The Portakabin Group’s commitment to sustainability has been recognised with the Environmental Business of the Year award in the Yorkshire Post Environment Awards 2015. The award was presented by Natalie Bennett, leader of the Green Party and follows the Group’s success in a number of national awards for recycling and zero waste. Portakabin Group was honoured for its environmental commitments which cover every aspect of its business – from its achievement of generating zero waste to landfill in the manufacture of its market-leading modular buildings to its sustainable transport initiatives.

FOURTH FACTORY SECURED Enquiry 167

Howarth Timber Engineered Solutions has acquired a fourth factory, extending its reach into the South West having completed the purchase of Gloucestershire-based Paul Timber Engineering Ltd. Paul Timber Engineering supplies Boise I Joist, metal web floor joists and roof trusses to regional builders and merchants and has built up an enviable reputation in the process. It becomes Howarth Timber Engineered Solutions’ fourth factory, sitting alongside its current sites in the North West, East Yorkshire and Suffolk. Howarth Timber Engineered Solutions, part of the Howarth Timber Group, UK’s largest privately-owned and operated timber company.

INSULATING SCOTLAND CAMPAIGN Enquiry 168

Insulation specialist Celotex is spreading the word of products and services that can assist compliance to new Scottish Building Regulations. “Our Insulating Scotland campaign will ensure that industry professionals across Scotland can easily access all they need to know about the new Section 6 Building Regulations,” said Paul Evans, Head of Marketing at Celotex. “With further reductions in CO2 emissions required for Scotland, Celotex product and service solutions will continue to help simplify compliance to these new levels.” Celotex has implemented a series of initiatives to offset more CO2 emissions than released.

NEW VENTILATION GUIDE Enquiry 169

Drawing on the expertise of sponsors Airflow Developments, The National Training Group (NTG) has released a new Ventilation Learning Guide, which explains the importance of ventilation and best practice principles for those specialising in the kitchen, bedroom and bathroom industry. NTG is a network of individuals, businesses and manufacturers dedicated to providing first-class educative materials and support services for those working within the sector. Airflow Developments has been instrumental in producing the latest Ventilation Learning Guide, which outlines why effective ventilation is paramount for protecting the longevity of homes.

PROMAT HELPS FPA Enquiry 170

When it needed to refurbish and update the training room at its UK headquarters, the Fire Protection Association (FPA) turned to Promat UK Promat supplied SUPALUX, a non-combustible calcium silicate board, Promat DURASTEEL composite panels for fire and blast protection, Promat TL Board, designed for the thermal upgrading of semi-exposed concrete decks - and the Promat FLAMEBRAKER grid system, used with SUPALUX for industrial linings. “The display is very positive and is exactly what is required here at our training facilities,” says Paul Reade, Fire Safety Technical Advisor with the FPA.