Housing Specification December/January 2019

LEVATO MONO

Porcelain paving system and coordinating internal tiling

• For both residential & commercial use.

• Ideal for balconies, roof terraces, garden decking and piazzas.

•Various sized 20mm thick porcelain tiles.

•An eternal zero maintenance productoffering over-life savings.

•Timber, stone & cementitious effects.

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

•Height adjustable/slope correcting support system: 9mm - 550mm.

•Lightweight – 45kgs per m2

•Highly abrasion and stain resistant.

•Highly slip resistant: R11 (ABC).

•High load bearing.

•Impact resistant.

•Completely non porous.

•Frost proof.

Welcome

The government is creating a stronger and more effective regulatory framework to improve building safety.

This will mean tougher sanctions for those who disregard residents’ safety, more rigorous standards and guidance for those undertaking building work, and a stronger voice for residents.

The plans explain how the government will implement the recommendations made by Dame Judith Hackitt in her review of building regulations and fire safety published following the Grenfell Tower fire. Building a Safer Future, commits the government to a programme of reform over the coming years.

Although broadly welcomed by the industry, many still believe the time is right for a much wider programme of reform that goes beyond Hackitt’s recommendations.

Immediate Past President of RIBA and Chair of the RIBA’s Expert Advisory Group on Fire Safety, Jane Duncan said in response to the Government’s announcement: “The update contains some welcome proposals. We are pleased to see that the government will require proper testing of fire safety products rather than relying on desktop studies and that they are planning substantial and comprehensive reform to the regulatory and accountability framework.

“But the news is long-overdue and with the exception of combustible cladding, the building regulations remain the same as they did when the

Grenfell Tower tragedy took place, over 18 months ago. England is now lagging behind Wales and Scotland, who have in place or are introducing regulations to require sprinklers, and in Scotland provide a second means of escape – two recommendations the RIBA has consistently called for to provide clarity for the industry and protection for the public.

“Furthermore, until we see real reform of how construction projects are procured, the pressure to cut costs will continue to incentivise the use of cheaper and ultimately riskier materials and approaches. The government must urgently reform the inspection process, but in the long-term we need to see a holistic focus on safety, not just cost cutting.

“The next large scale fire may not happen in a tower block – it’s vital that the government do not neglect other high risk buildings like care homes, hospitals and schools.”

Paul Groves Group Editor

paul.groves@tspmedia.co.uk

Builders planning for further growth

Builders are continuing to invest in land as they look to deliver further increases in housing supply, HBF/Glenigan’s latest Housing Pipeline report released today demonstrates.

The report shows that permissions for 361,971 new homes were granted in the year to October, underlining the industry’s intent to build even more homes in the years ahead.

Official figures released last month showed that net housing supply in England increased to 222,190 in the year to April, up an unprecedented 78% in the past five years. The report highlights the commitment of the industry to go further and deliver on the challenge laid down by Government to supply 300k homes a year.

The report also shows that the number of sites the permissions are being granted on is continuing to rise. The 361,971 permissions were on 21,848 different sites, the highest ‘moving annual total’ since the series was started in 2006. This is very welcome and suggests Local

Authorities are spreading their housing need across more sites instead of relying on fewer larger ones. This is something HBF pushed hard to be enforced through the planning system as it enables more SME builders to play their part in addressing our housing shortage.

The announcement of an extension to Help to Buy in October’s Budget will provide further confidence for the industry as it looks to push these permissions through the planning system. Certainty of future demand is absolutely key for builders as they look to invest in these permissions, and get them to the point to where they are allowed to actually start building the homes.

Builders are also continuing to invest heavily in the people, supply chain and new technologies that will enable them to build out these permissions in the years ahead at a rate that will help achieve Government targets.

Concern of course remains as to the impact Brexit will have on the economy and the

Calor LPG chosen for off-grid development

Housebuilder Larkfleet SW Ltd (Larkfleet) is part of the Larkfleet Group, an award-winning housebuilding and development company based in Bourne, Lincolnshire that places particular emphasis on sustainability.

Like most housebuilders, the company uses mains gas for the majority of its sites. However, this was not an option for its secluded rural development in the village of Churchinford, nine miles south of Taunton, Somerset.

Determined to give its homebuyers the comfort and familiarity of gas, Larkfleet opted for liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) from Calor. To maintain the tranquil countryside feel of the development, Calor installed two 4000-litre underground LPG tanks, buried out of sight of the 20 three and four-bedroom homes.

Gas is distributed through a network of hidden pipes directly to each home, which each have individual meters that are read annually by Calor. This allows homeowners to be invoiced

confidence of new home buyers, and in particular on continued access to skilled foreign workers and the industry continues to push Government for certainty.

Stewart Baseley, executive chairman at HBF said the figures clearly show the commitment of the industry to delivering further increases in housing supply.

“The industry has delivered unprecedented increases in housing supply over recent years and is continuing to invest heavily in the land and people needed to go further,” he said. “The recent confirmation of an extension to the Help to Buy scheme provides further certainty and confidence for builders in future demand. This is enabling them to invest in more sites, their supply chains and recruit and train more people, boosting local economies across the country.

“The industry continues to push Government for confirmation that it will have ongoing access to skilled labour from abroad post Brexit, which will be key to its ability to build out these sites.”

for their individual consumption, which means on completion of the development, Larkfleet will not need to be involved with its energy supply on an ongoing basis.

WILO-STRATOS MAXO: THE WORLD’S FIRST INTUITIVE SMART-PUMP*.

Continuity of the Construction Products Regulation after Brexit

The government has laid a statutory instrument to ensure a functioning Construction Products Regulation (CPR) regime when the UK leaves the European Union.

These changes are necessary to reflect that the UK will no longer be an EU member state from 29 March 2019.

This statutory instrument delivers the policy approach set out in the technical notice that was published on 13 September 2018. These arrangements will apply in the event that the UK exits the European Union without a deal in March 2019. We do not want or expect a no deal scenario, however it is the duty of a responsible government to prepare for every eventuality including the possibility of no deal.

The UK regime will maintain the requirement on manufacturers to declare the performance of their construction product, in accordance with product standards, when the product is placed on the UK market.

The key elements of this legislation are as follows:

Construction products already placed on the market will be able to continue to circulate in the UK.

Existing European harmonised standards will become UK ‘designated standards’. This will mean that immediately following exit day the UK and EU standards will be the same.

Thereafter, new UK standards will be designated by the Secretary of State. Where a UK body has undertaken the third-party conformity assessment processes required under the UK ‘designated standard’, the manufacturer must affix a new UK mark. Further, construction products that meet the harmonised European standard and are affixed with a ‘CE’ mark, can continue to be placed on the UK market without the need for re-testing or additional marking. This approach is intended to minimise disruption in the availability of goods on the UK market. The intention is that these arrangements will be for a time-limited period, and businesses will be given

Council becomes first to specify new ATMOS ventilation units

Residents of the Treseifion estate in Holyhead who live in properties owned by the Isle of Anglesey County Council will be the first to benefit from the new ATMOS PIV (Positive Input Ventilation) systems from EnviroVent.

Isle of Anglesey County Council has committed to 60 EnviroVent units on this scheme, including 35 ATMOS loft mounted units and 25 wall mounted ventilation units, as part of the refurbishment of a number of its properties.

The ventilation installations will be completed along with other upgrades to the properties which includes external wall insulation and render, replacement roof coverings, new windows and doors plus external works such as replacement paths and fencing.

Not only are the units utilised on this particular planned scheme they will also be installed on responsive maintenance works and integrated also into the Council’s void properties on behalf

of Isle of Anglesey County Council’s Housing Maintenance Unit.

ATMOS by EnviroVent is the first smart range of PIV solutions with five different units available designed to improve indoor air quality and eradicate the problem of condensation and mould growth in all types and sizes of homes.

sufficient notice in advance of this period coming to an end.

Where the product marking is affixed on the basis of self-declaration, then during the time-limited period the manufacturer will have the choice to use either the UK or CE mark (or both).

For products that are not fully covered by a designated standard, there will be an optional route available to enable products to be UK marked.

This approach will ensure that the Construction Products Regulation regime continues to operate effectively in the UK after we have left the European Union and will provide legal certainty in the event of no deal.

Homes England supports pilot modular housing scheme

Homes England recognises the important role that modern methods of construction (MMC)have to play in delivering the homes that England needs and is encouraging partners to develop and use MMC through a range of initiatives and the provision of development finance.

One local authority is exploring the use of MMC to deliver homes for affordable rent through an innovative pilot scheme. Nuneaton and Bedworth Council (NBBC) has just completed its first modular build having securing £120,000 worth of funding from Homes England.

The pilot development consists of four modular semi-detached two bedroom properties, built on former garage sites on Ashington Road, Bedworth and has been used to test the feasibility of using modular housing to increase the pace of housing delivery.

IT’S ALL IN THE FACTORY FINISHING WITH AKZONOBEL

It’s a situation that global coatings manufacturer AkzoNobel Wood Coatings, with its UK headquarters in Blackburn, are very familiar with, and is one key factor that determines their stance of strongly endorsing the fully factory finished concept in conjunction with their extensive range of timber joinery and cladding coatings.

This range includes their Sikkens Cetol WP562 - a translucent base stain with resistance to the effect of blue stain fungi through to their Sikkens Rubbol WF3310 - a water borne acrylic topcoat for use over 1K or 2K primer systems.

Like the first daffodil in Spring, our fond memories of the recent long and mild British Autumn are now, like bubbles in a cold bath, rapidly disappearing. The chill winds of Winter are now upon us, making on-site decoration of newly installed timber joinery and cladding items, at best, an uncertain process.

It’s a situation that global coatings manufacturer AkzoNobel Wood Coatings, with its UK headquarters in Blackburn, are very familiar with, and is one key factor that determines their stance of strongly endorsing the fully factory finished concept in conjunction with their extensive range of timber joinery and cladding coatings. Fully factory finished timber joinery and cladding ensures that the primer, base stains, mid and topcoats are applied under climate controlled factory conditions, no matter how challenging the weather is outside.

The 70’s and 80’s produced some feel-good news stories such as flares, punk rock and some very wild haircuts but also heralded some bad-news stories when considering build, installation and decoration practices vis a vie on-site timber joinery. Regrettably, it became the norm to see base stained or

primed only timber joinery delivered to sites and stored very badly, often unwrapped and in fully exposed ground contact situations. These were then installed and built around leaving them unprotected in adverse weather conditions for long periods. Only when the exterior build was mostly complete would the on-site decorator have a chance to begin, often having to cope with the added problems of already saturated timber, mortar, render or general building debris and damages and an impending dropped scaffold deadline. It was inevitable that it became a practical necessity to cut corners. It’s a situation that’s happily improved…a little like wearing those flares, but sadly not to the point where it’s under control by any means…a little like the haircuts!

By only using on-site coatings to bare or primed only timber joinery the project manager is opening-up a myriad of possible wounds that can haemorrhage a host of unnecessary problems. AkzoNobel know that fully factory finished timber joinery products have a better performance expectation and a greater resistance to the challenges of a modern building site based on a modular ready to fit concept than similarly produced bare or primed only timber joinery items.

This level of certainty is gained not only from the ‘uncertainty’ of on- site decoration but also from the advantages of using dedicated coatings, applied under factory controlled conditions to joinery items prior to assembly, glazing and fitting.

Consider a glazed and assembled timber window or door and the amount of areas where on site coating is simply not possible once installed. There are many vulnerable points subject to potential moisture ingress that are reliant, at best, on a primer coat for protection.

At AkzoNobel, the factory coating systems are designed with the user in mind and they liaise with timber joinery manufacturers to produce a full coating specification to suit production processes and equipment. A typical specification begins with the application of base stains or primers containing impregnation through a ‘Dip or Deluge’ process allowing sufficient product to be absorbed into the timber, especially through end grains with all surfaces easily accessed prior to assembly. After drying, the coating process continues with specialised sealers designed to offer added protection to vulnerable areas such as joints and end grains and is usually completed with the application of one or two topcoats, sprayed at considerably higher film builds that wouldn’t be possible with using brush or roller application.

Full drying is carried out at each relevant point of the operation, often using climate control systems which can control the movement, temperature and humidity of warm, dry air, even recycling cold wet air where necessary. This ensures effective curing at each stage is achieved within a typical 4-6-hour period. After the coating stage is complete that the final assembly and glazing of the timber joinery item begins, with handles, locks, hinges and glass units being fixed to a fully coated and sealed all around surface.

To contact Akzo Nobel Industrial Coatings directly for further details on their products, specifications and to see the list of UK and Ireland distributors follow the link www. sikkens-wood-coatings.co.uk/en/ home.html and www.akzonobel.com/en/uki

AkzoNobel

TACKLING INEQUALITY IN OUR CITIES

Vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, children and those with underlying medical conditions are at a disproportionately high risk of respiratory problems. Wendy Thomas, Residential Product Manager, Nuaire, explains the solutions available.

The government’s Chief Medical Officer (CMO) 2017 report, released in 2018, focuses on air pollution as a major threat to public health. Forty-four UK cities have been identified by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as having air too toxic to breathe safely. Particulate matter, notably PM10 and PM2.5 and NOx, the collective name for Oxides of Nitrogen, are the key culprits.

But, according to the CMO’s Report, there is both growing evidence and consensus that deprived groups in England are exposed more to air pollution and are therefore likely to face a greater health impact. Pollution sources and higher concentrations of ambient pollution are typically found in more socially disadvantaged areas.

Reducing levels of particulate matter and NOx are essential in our cities and steps are being taken, but it’s a slow business as it requires major changes such as building schools away from main roads and phasing out diesel cars. In the meantime, we need to take measures to protect those most at risk.

Filtering out pollutants

Carbon filtration remains one of the best options for removing pollutants from homes. Pollutants are attracted to the surface of the carbon and absorbed.

Incorporating a carbon filter into a standard MVHR (Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery) supply air valve that is part of a ducted ventilation system is an effective way to do this as long as access to the filter is quick and simple. Nuaire’s IAQ-VALVE, for example, has a simple ‘twist-and-clip’ bayonet fixture which enables quick release for easy maintenance every two years that can be carried out without the need for tools.

Most MVHR systems however, are designed for new build properties, but what about the 27

million existing homes in the UK? MVHR systems are impractical for existing properties as they require extensive ducting in voids etc. where there generally isn’t any space and it would result in major refurbishment.

The good news is that a new solution has emerged that combines tried and tested technology in the form of Positive Input Ventilation (PIV), but incorporating a carbon filter.

PIV units, traditionally used as a costeffective method of eliminating moisture from the home, gently pressurise a dwelling to expel stale and humid air through natural ventilation points. They can be mounted in the loft or a hallway cupboard. By adding a powerful carbon filter inter a PIV unit, existing properties can benefit from not only reduced condensation but reduced pollution also. In the case of our own Noxmaster system, it removes up to 99.5% of NO2 and up to 75% of PM2.5

Whilst most existing properties can benefit from this combined PIV and carbon filtration system, it’s social housing providers that can use it to make the most immediate difference to the most deprived and vulnerable members of our society.

Nuaire -

Whatever you ask of it, a JJI-Joist has the answer every time. No ifs. No buts. No matter how complex or awkward the job, we have built the ultimate can-do joist. By manufacturing to the highest specification our I-Joists are light, strong, thermally efficient, BIM compatible, FSC and PEFC certified and PAS 2050 accredited (to cut a long list short). But it’s also the back-up we offer that no one can equal. Our expert team of designers, engineers and regional technical support is always there to say ‘yes we can’.

WEB: www.jamesjones.co.uk/ewp EMAIL: jji-joists @ jamesjones.co.uk

TRADITIONAL SOLUTIONS AND PRODUCT INNOVATION HELP TACKLE TOUGH MARKET CONDITIONS

The UK door and window market put in a strong performance between 2013 and 2016 but appeared to flattened out in 2017. There are now positive signs for growth.

The UK door and window fabricators market is driven by many factors, reflecting exposure to a number of markets, at times moving in different directions. These include private home improvement, public sector housing renovation, new housebuilding, commercial new build and refurbishment.

Many door and window fabricators have responded to consumer market demand by broadening their range with alternative materials, styles and technical improvements to capture preferences which have included greater thermal and security features as well as triple glazing and increased colour options.

The perfect fit

After being impressed by the company’s product range at a construction trade show, Stonebridge Homes decided that Black Millwork’s range of window and door profiles were the perfect fit for an upcoming project they were working on.

As one of the leading names in residential development and commercial office space, the team at Stonebridge Homes has vast experience in producing skilfully designed, soundly constructed homes to suit the lifestyles of a wide range of customers. In June 2017, its team was tasked with working on another amazing project, which it has now completed after overcoming a number of challenges.

The large detached home is situated in an expansive ground, which contains a substantial garden and an external poolhouse. The main house is built from natural stone, which gives the property a real sense of character, but made fitting windows and doors challenging. One of the issues that Stonebridge Homes had to overcome on this project was the imprecise coursing across a number of the masonry units. The irregular nature of the coursing meant that the developers

needed a window and door supplier who could produce bespoke units that fitted directly into the natural stone.

Tackling

unique challenges

Stonebridge Homes commented: “This property presented a relatively unique challenge. Much of the stone masonry used across the home was uneven and as a result it was difficult to marry the coursing on the stone with the imperial sizing of the windows.

To make an enquiry - Go online: www.enquire2.com Send a fax: 01952 234003 or post our free Reader Enquiry Card

Black Millwork

Black Millwork

When it came to specifying window units we took great care in finding a supplier who could go above and beyond just offering us units that looked great and performed well. We needed a supplier with real expertise and technical know-how about the intricacies of working with natural stone. We found that with Black Millwork and they were on hand to help us every step of the way.”

The Stonebridge Homes’ team first discovered Black Millwork’s comprehensive product offering at a trade show. With the project in mind, the team was on the lookout for various building products to specify in the home. The developers were impressed with the company’s wide range of window and door products, which includes high performance wood, clad and aluminium windows and doors. After speaking with Black Millwork’s technical experts about the challenges associated with the project the developers sensed they would be the ideal choice.

A range of products including Andersen A-Series sash windows, Andersen A-Series panel patio doors and a range of composite entry doors were supplied by Black Millwork to the project. The company also supplied a number of aluminium products to the property’s pool-house including a large aluminium screen, an aluminium roof lantern and an aluminium glazed gable above the door. Working closely with Stonebridge Homes’ team, Black Millwork was on hand each step of the way to provide technical advice and expertise on how to properly install the products into the home.

Speaking about the project, General Manager at Black Millwork, Gary Hutton, commented: “We’ve been on quite a journey with the Stonebridge Homes’ team since meeting them

at a construction trade show last year, but it’s been an amazing experience. This was a special project to be involved with and the end results look great. Our work on this project underlines how we’re much more than just a window and door manufacturer. Working closely with the developers, we’ve been on hand to impart technical advice, installation tips and have also supplied a number of bespoke aluminium units in the home’s pool-house.”

Optima helps deliver regeneration

Optima windows from Profile 22 were chosen for the construction of 18 houses, 38 flats and two retail units as part of a regeneration scheme in Maidstone, Kent.

Housing association Golding Homes has invested £50m in a three phase regeneration project to transform and improve the former Park Wood estate in Maidstone. The scheme involved providing over 200 new homes, mainly family houses, as well as new community facilities including new shops, and a much wider package of investment to improve the local area.

Education, housing and healthcare contractor Rydon secured the £9.3m contract to deliver the third and final phase of the project, which involved building 18 houses, 38 flats and two retail units.

When it came to the windows and doors on the project, Rydon turned to longstanding supplier Feature Architectural Fabrications, based in Eastbourne, East Sussex.

Feature Architectural Fabrications has only been a Profile 22 installer for around two years and Procurement Manager Paul Delaney attributes his company’s success in winning the Wallis Fields contract to the system.

“Rydon specified PVCU windows and doors. Optima from Profile 22 delivered the technical and aesthetic requirements at a competitive price. It made the difference in this case.”

Optima from Profile 22 is rapidly becoming the most widely specified commercial system thanks to its compelling list of benefits that help specifiers meet even the most demanding of requirements.

The system delivers optimal thermal performance, achieving a 1.2 W/m2K U-value as standard, with U-values as low as 0.8 W/m2K possible. It is PAS24 compliant as standard with Secured by Design options available as well. In its aesthetics and versatility, it sits comfortably in any architectural style.

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ACCESSIBILITY REPORT HIGHLIGHTS OPPORTUNITIES

IN RENTED HOUSING

A new survey(*) is highlighting the growing need for accessible rented accommodation, and particularly homes with accessible bathrooms...

An accessible WC and shower were rated the most important accessibility features by 90% of respondents. The findings affect both social and private rented sectors (50% of respondents would like to move into the PRS, yet only 18% are currently in privately rented accommodation). Of the respondents, four out of five live in a home that does not fully meet their needs.

The bathroom accessibility can be met efficiently using a project management service available from Closomat. The leading provider of accessible bathroom solutions can survey, offer design advice, supply, install, commission and provide ongoing service & maintenance. The service is available across Closomat’s product offering, including shower toilets, toilet lifters, washbasins, shower seats, ceiling track hoists. It is fully Construction (Design & Management) compliant.

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From the outset the goal was to create a loose lay flooring product that would save installation time, eliminate the need for adhesives and make future replacement easier whilst still providing the sustainable slip resistance required from a safety floor.

POLYFLOR LAUNCHES

Polyflor, the leading UK Manufacturer of commercial and residential vinyl flooring, is delighted to announce the launch of the new Polysafe QuickLay PUR Collection.

Polysafe QuickLay is a loose lay safety flooring designed for adhesive-free installation and is the perfect solution for busy commercial environments in need of a quick turnaround and where sustainable slip resistance is a priority.

Designed to be a practical choice for contractors and specifiers alike, Polysafe QuickLay is a temporary or permanent floor covering which achieves the same performance and durability as other Polysafe flooring collections but with the added benefits of adhesive-free installation. The specially formulated studded emboss on the underside of Polysafe QuickLay works as a barrier – allowing moisture to escape from the subfloor – facilitating installation over new concrete floors of up to 97% RH. The unique double sided Polysafe QuickLay tape is fitted around the perimeter of the room, underneath all seams and doorways securing the flooring in place.

Polysafe Quicklay features a contemporary design in a tonal colour bank of 12 shades with a matt surface finish, providing a decoration suitable for dementia friendly environments, supported with the University of Stirling’s

Dementia Services Development Centre accreditation for the full collection. The DSDC is an international centre of knowledge and expertise dedicated to improving the lives of people living with dementia which offers a product accreditation scheme. The Polysafe QuickLay collection performs exceptionally well with 10 colours achieving the highest 1a rating and 2 colours achieving 1b.

Polyflor’s UK and International Marketing Director, Tom Rollo comments, ‘From the outset the goal was to create a loose lay flooring product that would save installation time, eliminate the need for adhesives and make future replacement easier whilst still providing the sustainable slip resistance required from a safety floor. The new Polysafe QuickLay collection fulfils these requirements whilst also responding to the market demands for plain and tonal decoration products, suitable for specification within dementia friendly environments.’

Designed for low maintenance costs, Polysafe QuickLay features the renowned Polysafe polyurethane reinforcement (PUR) cleaning enhancement. Cross-linked and UV cured, Polysafe PUR is a super strength reinforcement designed to facilitate even easier cleaning, whilst providing optimum appearance and colour retention as well as improved soil release.

100% recyclable, Polysafe QuickLay is a sustainable flooring choice, built to last but

offering end of life flexibility - uplift and re-use or recycle via the Recofloor scheme. Adhesive-free installation also promotes excellent indoor air quality and low VOC emissions which leaves a healthy environment that can be used straight away.

Further details of Polyflor’s extensive range of resilient vinyl flooring are available from Polyflor Ltd, Radcliffe New Road, Whitefield, Manchester, M45 7NR. Tel: 0161 767 1111. Fax: 0161 767 1128.

Website: www.polyflor.com/quicklay Email: info@polyflor.com

Polyflor

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Adhesive-free installation also promotes excellent indoor air quality and low VOC emissions which leaves a healthy environment that can be used straight away.

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PERMEABLE PAVING FOR SUDS

New legal requirements for Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) on developments across Wales apply from 7th January, heralding wider use of concrete block permeable paving. At the same time, the trade association Interpave has published the new Edition 7 of its definitive guidance to this essential SuDS technique – ‘Design and Construction of Concrete Block Permeable Pavements’ – now available to download from www.paving.org.uk.

It’s over 3 years since the Government chose to abandon dedicated requirements for SuDS on new developments in England using the 2010 Flood and Water Management Act, instead relying on planning policy. However, the Welsh Government has implemented Schedule 3 of the Act, which relates to provisions for SuDS. These include the establishment of a SuDS Approving Body (SAB) within each local/unitary authority.

SAB approval will be required before construction of drainage systems can commence on new and redeveloped sites. The requirement for SAB approval will not apply to single dwellings and developments with a construction area of less than 100m2 Provided statutory National SuDS Standards are met, the SAB will be required to adopt and maintain approved SuDS that serve more than one property.

Mimicking Nature

The Welsh National Standards point out that: “The SuDS approach mimics natural drainage, managing surface runoff at or close to the surface and as close to its source as practicable, controlling the flow … and providing a range of additional benefits. It contrasts with traditional drainage techniques,

which are based on underground pipes to convey rainwater away from properties as quickly as possible. Surface based sustainable drainage components…are generally simpler and easier to operate, monitor and maintain”.

By its very nature, concrete block permeable paving is uniquely placed as an essential, attractive, surface-based, multifunctional SuDS technique. Of course, hard surfaces are necessary for developments anyway – for roads, parking, shared spaces or play. But permeable paving also provides an inherent drainage system that requires no additional land take for water storage, treatment or conveyance. It also addresses both flooding and pollution issues, eliminating pipework, gulleys and manholes, and should therefore cost less than conventional drainage and paving.

Flexible Applications

In fact, it can also accept runoff from other impermeable paving and roofs, giving further savings. It can simply infiltrate rainwater falling on it straight into permeable ground, after removing pollutants. But, more commonly in the UK, permeable paving is used to collect and store water on site during storms, before gradual discharge to other SuDS features along the ‘management

train’, surface water or combined sewers, or watercourses.

This attenuation and delayed discharge from the permeable paving avoids drains surcharging and downstream flooding. Where a comprehensive SuDS scheme is planned incorporating landscape features, concrete block permeable paving removes water-borne pollution and provides a gradual flow of clean water at the head of the ‘SuDS management train’. Water in open SuDS features on the surface can then be used safely to enhance landscape design and biodiversity.

Interpave’s new guidance includes an extensive new Glossary and covers the most recent permeable paving techniques, such as overlays to existing road constructions and enhanced, predictable water storage using flow controls. The structural and hydraulic engineering design procedures have been comprehensively updated and new, straightforward maintenance and reinstatement guidance added. The guide is freely available to download via the Design Construction & Maintenance section of www.paving.org.uk

Interpave

by Appointment to Her Majesty The Queen Manufacturers Of Wood Preservatives

Protim Solignum Ltd Marlow, Buckinghamshire

DURABLE SIKA PRODUCTS HELP BEACH DEVELOPMENT FIGHT THE ELEMENTS

The Dunes, a stunning new beachfront development in Perranporth, Cornwall, has seen a combination of Sika products used in order to create a durable solution for the roof and balconies, able to resist the difficult coastal weather conditions.

With the roof and balconies needing to guarantee a long-lasting result, Sika Sarnafil and Sika Liquid Plastics systems were specified for the job, working together seamlessly to create the desired result for the project.

Wind uplift calculations were provided by Sika Sarnafil to the contractors, which suggested the product be mechanically fixed to ensure the roof was able to resist the formidable weather. With a combination of Sarnafil’s S327 18 EL Lead Grey single ply membrane, plus Sarnavap vapour control and SarnarTherm insulation, the outcome was a robust roof that met the requirements of the project.

For the balconies, a Sika Liquid Plastics system was suggested to provide a complete watertight solution. With the installation handled by Western Flat Roofing, a Sika

Liquid Plastic’s Quality Assured (QA) contractor, they chose to use Sikalastic 625 grey (PU), cold applied system with selfadhesive on a tapered insulation scheme, creating seamless and durable waterproofing on the balconies.

On the balconies, the installation of three-ton hot tubs meant the insulation scheme had to be

designed to allow water flow around the fixed structure, while complying with the correct U-value and withstanding the weight. However, regular visits from Sika’s Field Technicians meant queries were handled directly and quickly resulting in a successful installation and securing a 20-year guarantee for all Sika products used.

Contractor Bouygues chooses Deceuninck PVC-U over aluminium

More than 700 frames of Deceuninck’s 2500 windows have been installed in luxury apartments in Alexandra Wharf, Southampton. Deceuninck fabricator Dempsey Dyer worked with contractor Bouygues to break the original specification for aluminium with Deceuninck’s sustainable PVC-U products Deceuninck’s 2500 window combines outstanding performance with contemporary slimline looks for a finish that closely mirrors aluminium. One hundred and fifty Slider 24 patio doors were also installed in the development. Deceuninck’s Slider 24 is one of the highest performing doors on the market for weather performance, water tightness and security.

Deceuninck

Customer testimonials can be a powerful tool in any company kit bag - with video testimonials being especially valuable.

Freefoam Building Products are delighted to launch a new video featuring long standing customer Willmotts Plastic Building Products to highlight the partnership they share and the success this has brought.

Interviews with the Managing Director Scott Willmott and George Petts, Business Development Manager, illustrate how the 20-year relationship has benefited both companies, and is set to continue in the future.

Scott explained “Working with a manufacturer like Freefoam is invaluable to us. We find them

to be approachable, helpful and interested in us succeeding. The housebuilders we supply often include bespoke features on their designs and we need to be able to meet these demands.

Freefoam have consistently been flexible and creative in supplying us with adapted and bespoke products – which has been one of the big advantages to our partnership.”

From sales support by a dedicated Area Sales Manager, Customer Service support throughout the ordering and delivery process and a wide range of marketing materials

Freefoam are able to provide all the tools to help suppliers and their installer customers sell more.

Freefoam

Sika

Freefoam commit to working with stockists to grow

NOW THERE’S A TOILET WASTE PUMPING UNIT WHICH CAN DO THINGS THE OTHERS CAN’T!

It can pump further and higher, making it possible to handle longer pipe runs. The pipework can be run horizontally first, include a double lift (horizontal, then vertical, horizontal again and then vertical again), or even be run along an uphill gradient. These features vastly extend the places where an extra toilet can be installed!

All of this is possible because the FlushMaster uses a submersible, open, free flow, vortex impeller pump and not a domestic cutter pump, making it ideal for both domestic and light commercial applications. The open vortex pump impeller with large clearances between pump opening and tank floor also makes the FlushMaster more tolerant of user abuse.

The new unit is suitable for connection to a single toilet, bidet, washbasin or shower (Not a bath or washing machine). Due to the power of the vortex pump the discharge pipe requirement is DN32, dia 28 ID or DN40, dia 36 ID.

An integral, acoustic alarm and volt free connections for coupling to a remote alarm or BMS are built into the unit.

Another benefit of the FlushMaster is the facility to un-clog the open vortex impeller without removing the cover. Simply insert a screwdriver down in the aperture provided onto the head of the motor / pump shaft, reverse the impeller and the clogged item will probably drop free.

For more stubborn blockages simply remove two screws and twist and lift the complete motor / pump assembly away from the collecting tank. This will allow the foreign object to be easily identified and cleared.

Multiple fitting positions are possible and each pump is supplied with a full set of installation connections for direct mounting behind the toilet or behind a partition wall. All parts can be simply removed and replaced without removing the tank from the toilet.

Pump Technology Ltd products are available from stock & local merchants.

For more information call 01189 821 555 or visit www. pumptechnology.co.uk Pictures show the Pump Technology

FlushMaster fitted behind a cloakroom toilet and the motor, visible with the housing removed.

The new FlushMaster from Aldermaston based Pump Technology Ltd. can do a number of things which other units can’t.

Pump Technology Ltd

BISON PRECAST LAUNCHES NEW BRICK FACED SANDWICH PANELS

Forterra’s specialist supplier of precast concrete, Bison Precast, served up its latest cost-effective alternative to traditional building methods at the recent Offsite Construction Show.

Bison Precast’s Brick Faced Sandwich Panels are made by factory fitting brick finishes onto precast concrete panels, and are ideally suited to multi-storey structures in residential and commercial use developments.

Forterra has one of the largest selections of facing bricks in the UK and all can be specified and utilised seamlessly with these panels, making their manufacture extremely efficient, and it is hoped that this system may help address current and ongoing trade shortages in the on-site labour market.

The panels, which are an extension of Bison Precast’s cross wall frames, are cast with bricks placed within them, can be suitable for direct decoration and can also be manufactured with other features such as cast-in electricity conduits, plug sockets and even glazed windows installed at the firm’s

factory, thus reducing the need for onsite labour during the build.

The system was unveiled at ExCel London at the annual celebration of offsite construction, where professionals from design, construction and innovation from all over the industry gathered to display and view the latest advances in the field.

The Sandwich Panels typically measure four to eight metres in length by a storey height and weigh circa 7-14 tonnes, though Bison Precast’s team of experts can design bespoke panels based on customers’ requirements.

The Brick Faced Sandwich Panels will be fully available in early 2019, the same year Bison Precast marks its centenary.

Forterra

New CRL Paris system is sleek, streamlined and easy to install

Creating a streamlined finish and providing an unobstructed view, the new CRL Paris System offers a simple solution to install a French balcony.

In domestic situations, a popular way of gaining natural light internally while achieving a sleek and modern look on a building’s exterior is to opt for French doors and large windows teamed with a French balcony.

CRL Paris for French balcony is a safe glass balustrade system with vertical profiles to mount onto the door or window frame. With no handrail required, no visible screws and two narrow profiles available in white (RAL9016) and grey (RAL7016) to match popular window frame finishes, the system creates a minimal, high-end look to any building’s exterior while being extremely secured for the end-user.

The system is easy to install, and it is suitable for laminated safety glass. It has been tested to a maximum width of 3 metres, conforming to the latest European technical regulations. The CRL Paris System includes gaskets coated with a sliding polymer which are also suitable for self-cleaning glazing, making maintenance simple too.

CRL

The Golf Classic tees up for another exciting year

Since its launch in 1993, the Golf Classic has attracted thousands of players from across the country, making it a significant networking event for the construction industry with new business relationships and friendships forged on and off the green. The Belfry in the West Midlands is the venue for the 2019 Grand Final, host of more Ryder Cup tournaments than any other venue. The tournament is open to those employed within the UK Mainland construction industry. Entry costs just £46 per two ball team. Simply email info@thegolfclassic.co.uk, call 01892 752300 or visit www.thegolfclassic.co.uk to enter online.

Golf Classic

We do the matching so you can enjoy playing golf in this famous five round knockout tournament. Share green fees and compete toward a place in the Grand Final at world renowned Ryder Cup venue The Belfry Hotel & Golf Resort. Finalists enjoy playing free championship course golf, gala prizegiving dinner and overnight stay. For more information and to enter simply call 01892 752300 visit www.thegolfclassic.co.uk, email info@thegolfclassic.co.uk or fill in and return the entry form below with your £46 entry per two ball team. Entrance closes at the end of February 2019 with the 1st round in March.

years offering golfers the chance to play golf regionally, make friends and build profitable relationships.

ISLE OF ANGLESEY COUNCIL BECOMES FIRST TO SPECIFY NEW ATMOS VENTILATION UNITS

Residents of the Treseifion estate in Holyhead who live in properties owned by the Isle of Anglesey County Council will be the first to benefit from the new ATMOS® PIV (Positive Input Ventilation) systems from EnviroVent.

Isle of Anglesey County Council has committed to 60 EnviroVent units on this scheme, including 35 ATMOS® loft mounted units and 25 wall mounted ventilation units, as part of the refurbishment of a number of its properties. The ventilation installations will be completed along with other upgrades to the properties which includes external wall insulation and render, replacement roof coverings, new windows and doors plus external works such as replacement paths and fencing. Not only are the units utilised on this particular planned scheme they will also be installed on responsive maintenance works and integrated also into the Council’s void properties on behalf of Isle of Anglesey County Council’s Housing Maintenance Unit.

Isle of Anglesey County Council have installed EnviroVent’s Filterless Infinity Fans and its PIV units for over 5 years now on a number of properties within their housing stock of approximately 3,800 dwellings that consist of traditionally and non traditionally built houses, bungalows and flats.

Terry Barton, Capital Works Team Leader for the Isle of Anglesey Council, said: “We selected EnviroVent’s ventilation systems as they have proven to be very reliable and effective in combating condensation issues and mould growth in our residents homes. We were also impressed that EnviroVent offers a 10 year full parts and labour warranty on its loft-mounted ATMOS® units.”

Stephen Winstanley, Sales Manager for EnviroVent, said: “This is an exciting period for EnviroVent and we are delighted to be working with Isle of Anglesey County Council to improve air quality in their homes. The ATMOS® range has only been introduced in the last few months but has a whole range of features that make it ideal for social housing providers and private landlords.”

ATMOS® by EnviroVent is the first smart range of PIV solutions with five different units available designed to improve indoor air quality and eradicate the problem of condensation and mould growth in all types and sizes of homes.

All the loft-mounted products within the ATMOS® range come with a 10 year warranty, which includes any necessary repair or replacements being installed completely free of charge.

ATMOS® has great connectivity as it features the new myenvirovent app, which is the first app of its kind that gives the homeowner complete control of their ventilation system at the touch of a button. The app, accessed via most smartphones, can be used to adjust boost functionality, airflow, heater and monitor filter performance.

Another option with the ATMOS ® unit is the facility to link to the AirSens ® range of air quality sensors. AirSens ® is available in three different versions to enable the occupant to monitor Carbon Dioxide levels, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) or relative humidity. When AirSens ® detects an increase in these levels, Atmos ® reacts automatically by instantly supplying more fresh air into the property to maintain a healthy environment thus creating an improved level of air quality.

For any social housing provider interested in ATMOS®, EnviroVent has its own specialist team who will survey, recommend and then

install the product into an existing or new property.

Residents of the Isle of Anglesey County Council properties which are upgraded to the ATMOS® ventilation units will receive energy efficiency benefits too as it enables the warmer air at ceiling level to be gently redistributed to heat the home. This can lead to a saving of around 10% of a home’s annual heating costs.

EnviroVent offers a full range of ventilation solutions to the new build and refurbishment sectors. Its award-winning products are UK manufactured and can be installed by EnviroVent’s own dedicated team of nationwide installation engineers, who also provide after-sales support.

For more information on ventilation solutions from EnviroVent, visit the website www.envirovent.com or call 0845 27 27 810.

EnviroVent

We need millions of homes, but not ‘crap’ ones

Last month saw architect and TV presenter George Clarke explain why he thinks we simply have to change the way we build homes here in the UK with his call for us to “stop building crap homes.”

He was speaking at the ‘Transforming the Housing Technology Mindset’, conference hosted by Mitsubishi Electric, which saw industry experts argue for a revolution in the housebuilding sector.

Mr Clarke called for a change in building regulations so that: “every single new build house comes with a heat pump as standard, and everyone has triple glazing, as standard.”

With housing charity, Shelter also recently highlighting how desperate we are for three million new social homes over the next 20 years, his call was very timely.

Mr Clarke entertained the packed room with a brief history of why he is so passionate about the need for good quality homes and he railed against the traditional methods used to build the vast majority of UK homes.

“In essence, we’re still building like the Romans, with construction methods that have fundamentally remained the same for centuries,” he said. “When you compare how fast other sectors have transformed over the past two decades, it is shocking to see how little has changed.

“Unfortunately, the housing technology market has made very little progress since 1997. We

need systematic change at a global, national, local and personal level to get houses to a standard they should be. It’s time for the housing revolution.

Calling for innovative, off-site construction that could deliver more quality homes, with less embedded carbon at a faster rate, Mr Clarke also explained how these homes would be ideal for the use of renewable technologies.”

He was joined on the panel by Nick Whitehouse, the founder of Buildoffsite, along with Mitsubishi Electric’s own experts, who gave presentations to the attending audience made up of housebuilders, architects, housing associations and specifiers.

Mr Whitehouse spoke about the background to Buildoffsite and focused on the high quality and speed that can be achieved with this ‘factory’ form of modular construction.

This was echoed by George Clarke who questioned why we still build houses ‘out in the field’, when modern methods of construction could see a dramatic increase in the quality and efficiency of new homes.

“You don’t build a car outdoors in a field in the pouring rain and you don’t plaster the inside of it and render the outside of,” he explained.

Head of Sustainability at Mitsubishi Electric, Martin Fahey, spoke about how the ‘greening’ of the national grid makes the case for renewable heat pumps much, much stronger.

“About a third of all UK carbon emissions comes

from our demand for heat and produces about half of all greenhouse gases,” he said.

“Tackling the way we heat homes and ensuring that they are as efficient as possible right from the start offers a huge opportunity if we are to ever cut carbon emissions. It’s also an area that can change quickly if we simply apply the technology and the skills that already exist.”

Other presentations focused on the developments in UK production of heat pumps over the last decade and the practicalities of living with a heat pump, whether in a retro-fit situation or a newbuild home.

The event was well received by the attendees who took the overriding message that quality and energy efficiency need to be right at the heart of our homes, whether new or old.

A short video overview of the event can be viewed on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=0KGQtKB8W2g&t=1s) and if you would like further details on the presentations given during the day, please contact Mitsubishi Electric.

REXEL LAUNCHES NEW WI-FI HEATING PRODUCTS

As market demand continues to grow for smart functioning controls in the home leading electrical distributor Rexel is launching a new range of its Newlec heating products – including two Wi-Fi controlled products.

This is a first for the Rexel own brand Newlec within this sector, with the two new products – Newlec Wi-Fi Thermostat and the Newlec Wi-Fi Controlled Fused Spur Timeswitch.

The Newlec Wi-Fi Thermostat enables homeowners to control their heating via a Newlec app on their device. It is easy to install or retrofit and controls the heating remotely via the app that can be downloaded from the Apple Store and Google Play Store. It functions on both Wi-Fi and 4G so users don’t need to be in an area with Wi-Fi connection. Conveniently, the thermostat supports multiple users and devices so anyone in the household can check or control the heating wherever they are.

Users can schedule heating times over a week with up to six time and temperature periods per day, which can also be repeated weekly saving users time. And the Newlec Wi-Fi Thermostat has a set temperature range of 5°C to 35°C with adjustments in 0.5 or 1.0 degree steps.

Domus Ventilation launches specification guide

Domus Ventilation, part of the Polypipe group, has launched an in-depth Specification Guide, covering its full range of award winning, energy efficient ventilation products for the domestic and light commercial markets, plus Best Practice Guides drawing on the company’s extensive knowledge in the ventilation sector. The full range of Domus Ventilation products are included within the new Specification, Guide, including the recently released high performance HRXE Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) and the highly energy-efficient CMX Mechanical Extract Ventilation (MEV) units. The new Specification Guide is available to download from www.domusventilation.co.uk.

Domus Ventilation

The Newlec Wi-Fi Controlled Fused Spur Timeswitch is also controlled via a Newlec app available on Android and iOS and works with either Wi-Fi or 4G.

The Timeswitch fits as a standard 25mm deep single wall box and can be directly retrofit

for a BS1362 fused connection unit. It is 13A rated and is suitable or 3kW applications, such as immersion heaters, a 5A inductive load, 1000W tungsten lighting, 500W LED, 100W CFL bulbs and 500 flourescent lighting.

Rexel

New LED low bay luminaire can save

The LED Polaris is a new generation of low bay luminaire from lighting specialists Fitzgerald Lighting.

With a slim design, the Polaris industrial luminaire incorporates the latest LED technology with a branded European driver which when used with the optional sensors can save up to 90% energy compared with traditional alternatives.

With a 50,000 hour life and a five year warranty, maintenance costs are virtually eliminated.

Ideal for warehouses, factories, workshops and retail ‘back of house’, the LED Polaris is easy to install with a plug and play system to minimise

installation costs and future maintenance requirements.

Designed and manufactured in the UK, the LED Polaris can be surface or suspension mounted depending on the application and it is fitted with a clear polycarbonate screen for even light distribution with an open area or rack reflector.

In two recent projects that have utilised the LED Polaris the end users achieved what they were hoping for, which was a significant reduction in energy consumption and maintenance costs combined with a big increase in illuminance levels and light quality.

up to 90% energy

Fitzgerald

PROTECT MEMBRANES USED FOR PIONEERING

OFFSITE SOCIAL HOUSING SCHEME

Protect’s reflective TF200 Thermo insulating breather membrane has been used throughout a six property social housing project in Banbury on all external walls, to provide enhanced thermal efficiency and deliver a low U-value, contributing to the environmental performance for the overall construction.

Cherwell District Council (CDC) required a turnkey solution to provide high quality, affordable housing and turned to offsite construction specialist F1 Modular Limited to design and build the properties, developed on the former site of Banbury Ambulance Station.

Appointed via the LHC’s New Housing and Associated Works (NH1) procurement framework, F1 Modular’s design challenge comprised of manufacturing 26 ensuite rooms with shared facilities and two bedsit properties all contained within six shared houses. Working closely with CDC’s in-house design team, F1 Modular built a series of modules using volumetric construction principles in strict factory controlled and weather-tight conditions.

Delivered on budget and requiring reduced time on site thanks to precision offsite manufacture, the modules were installed with Protect’s BM TRADA certified, TF200 Thermo membrane fixed to the outer structure, providing not only low emissivity but also

temporary protection against wind damage, weathering and water penetration, whilst also ensuring the passage of water vapour into the external cavity between the external masonry and the outer wall, significantly reducing the risk of condensation.

Protect’s range of wall, ceiling and floor construction membranes together with its roofing underlays and accessories provides a comprehensive solution to the modular build sector. In particular, Protect construction membrane products with reflective technology help deliver thermal efficiency benefits to meet low target U-values and ensure compliance with relevant Building Regulations.

For details of how Protect products can be incorporated into modular builds, whether residential and commercial, please visit www.protectmembranes.com, email info@protectmembranes.com or call 0161 905 5700, quoting ‘Cherwell Social Housing.’

Protect Membranes

Ineffective ventilation can lead to mould and condensation, resulting in poor air quality that affects people’s health and damp conditions that threaten the value of your investment. The good news is that the solution’s a simple one. We are experts in ventilation systems and have high-quality, low maintenance products for all types of social housing.

To choose your ventilation system visit www.airflowselectair.co.uk or call 01494 560800

www.airflow.com

VENTILATION MATTERS

PROCare uses Fibo panels for UK-wide social housing projects

Adaptation specialist PROCare is supplying Fibo wall panels to over 800 bathrooms in social housing projects across the country.

PROCare manufactures and distributes products to adapt wetrooms, bathrooms and kitchens in social housing when age or disability limits daily activities.

“We’re using Fibo panels on sheltered housing projects in Leicester, Manchester, York and Bristol,” says Karen Owens, PROCare Business Development Manager. “The panels are ideal for wetrooms and bathrooms. They’re robust, longlasting, and quick and easy to install.

“Fibo panels don’t attract dirt or mildew and maintenance is easier. And a range of price brackets means our clients can choose according to their budget.”

Karen continues: “The service and support from Fibo has been excellent - the onsite training is a godsend. The team came out to demonstrate best practice installation for different situations, helping our contractors achieve a perfect finish while still working quickly and effectively. We stock Fibo panels as part of our standard portfolio and find the service second to none.”

Fibo

Aico alarm interface used in high risk fire safety systems

Fire safety start-up company Lite4Life has adopted Aico’s unique Ei414 Fire / Carbon Monoxide (CO) Alarm Interface into its Multiwatch tower block fire safety system and AlightforLife Directional Way Finder Safety Light.

The Ei414 is being used to alert these systems in the event of an activation from Aico Fire and CO Alarms. In the case of AlightforLife it activates LEDS pointing to the nearest exit. The Ei414 Fire/CO Alarm Interface provides a dedicated connection between Aico Smoke and CO Alarms and third party safety systems. Connection can be made wirelessly with Aico’s RadioLINK technology or hard wired.

Aico

Design-driven flooring solution by Gerflor for student housing

Built by Robertson Construction and designed by architect Anderson Bell + Christie for Vastint Hospitality, Havannah House is a brand new six-storey private, student housing development in Glasgow. Gerflor’s, 19db acoustic, Taralay Impression Comfort in Nest Black, was specified by Vastint Hospitality’s in-house design team with 1500 sqm installed by MacGregor flooring. Taralay Impression Comfort is a multi-layered, vinyl flooring with a Very High Density (VHD) foam backing and compact interlayer for where excellent sound insulation, comfort, durability and indentation performance are needed.

Gerflor

Easy Bathrooms plans to become top specified new build brand

Easy Bathrooms opened 11 additional showrooms in 2018, in its plan to become the UK’s number-one specified new-build brand. The company now has 28 showrooms across the UK, with stores launching across the South of England in 2018. The stores aid housebuilders’ ability to improve buyers’ experiences – by providing an inspirational showroom for them to browse and make their bathroom choices. Further growth is planned for 2019, with an additional 10 stores set to open their doors over the next 12 months. The firm has also added an extra 380 products to its range.

Easy Bathrooms

F.Ball introduces recyclable plastic bottles

F. Ball and Co. Ltd. is replacing its traditional five litre plastic bottles, used for gauging liquids, tackifiers and primers, with 100% recyclable versions that are themselves made from recycled plastic. The move is part of the company’s ongoing commitment to reducing packaging waste and, specifically, plastic waste due to the adverse effect it can have on wildlife and the wider environment; dramatically highlighted in recent press and television reports. The new bottles can be disposed of through the normal waste disposal chain to be recycled. The material can be recycled up to ten times.

F. Ball

NEW Cromwell Walling

Walling suitable for any housing scheme

Marshalls’ Cromwell Walling is manufactured using Yorkstone aggregates to closely replicate the visual and textured characteristics of natural stone.

Available in four colours, four sizes and three different pitch faces, Cromwell walling is the ideal solution for any residential or commercial scheme.

Find out more at www.marshalls.co.uk/walling