Housing Specification December/January 2021

Telescopic

Introducing the new pre-assembled airbrick system from Manthorpe. Allows for an extraction system be conveniently built into the brickwork, eliminating the need for retrospective core drilling. Unique, extendable telescopic pipe to suit the thickness of the wall and ducting connection. Product supplied finished therefore no assembly requirement. Build Thru…air into the masonry as it proceeds. Provides easier and quicker installation to match the demands of on-site construction.

The Government is committed to reaching net-zero and is taking considerable action to address the emissions from buildings – with heating and powering buildings currently accounting for 40% of the UK’s total energy usage.

There has already been considerable progress made on emissions from homes, with overall total emissions reduced by about a fifth since 1990 despite there being approximately a quarter more homes.

In 2019 the Government introduced a legally binding target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2050 – making the UK the first major economy in the world to legislate a zero net emissions target. The measures announced today recognise the important role that the energy efficiency of buildings can play in achieving this goal.

Julie Hirigoyen, Chief Executive at UKGBC, said: “We are pleased to see confirmation that the Future Homes Standard will mean new homes will have carbon dioxide emissions 7580% lower than those built to current Building Regulations –though it’s regrettable that the Standard won’t be implemented till 2025, despite it being widely trailed that it would be brought forward to 2023.

“We also welcome the interim 31% threshold later this year, which will put us on a path to the Future Homes Standard.

“It’s a big relief that the Government has ditched its original proposal to scrap the Fabric Energy Efficiency Standard (FEES). We had long argued that scrapping the FEES would be a highly retrograde step, meaning in some cases that a home that would fail current Building Regulations because of poor fabric could pass the 2021 regulations.

“Meanwhile, the many local authorities that have declared climate emergencies will also be relieved that Government has confirmed that in the immediate term they can still set higher energy performance standards for new homes than those mandated by Building Regulations. But they, like us, will be disappointed that Government hasn’t completely ruled out curtailing their powers in the future.”

Paul Groves Group Editor

paul.groves@tspmedia.co.uk

Howells Patent

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CPA launches consultation on new Product Information Code

The Construction Products Association (CPA) is launching an industry-wide consultation into a new proposed Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI), to gather the views on the Code before it is formally launched later this year.

The Code has been developed by the CPA’s Marketing Integrity Group (MIG), which was tasked with responding to the issues raised in Dame Judith Hackitt’s report ‘Building A Safer Future’, and the credibility challenge facing our industry following the Grenfell Tower fire. The report confirmed radical change was needed for construction products, particularly in the areas of testing, information and marketing. The Code, made up of 11 clauses, aims to set the benchmark for how product information is presented and marketed by manufacturers.

A new microsite dedicated to this consultation - www.buildingsafely.co.uk - explains the background, and includes a specially written report on the new Code. It’s presented in an easy-to-read, digestible format for the industry to review and respond. The MIG’s work tackles shortcomings in ‘Product Information’ identified in Chapter 7 of the ‘Building A Safer Future’ report. Its work represents two years of open debate and discussion, and of engagement with various parts of the supply chain. It follows detailed analysis of the Call For Evidence survey in 2019, which attracted over 500 responses from across the industry.

The survey confirmed that for product and performance information to be trusted, it must be Clear, Accurate, Up-to-date, Accessible and Unambiguous. These five points are the acid tests that now stand behind the 11 Clauses in the new Code.

The MIG is driving a wide-reaching consultation to give manufacturers, specifiers and users of information an opportunity to comment on the new Code, the implementation of its 11 Clauses, and its ongoing management and policing. The consultation is being carried out independently by industry specialists, MRA Research.

CPA Chief Executive Peter Caplehorn comments: “The importance of this new Code and consultation process will be obvious to all those working in the built environment postGrenfell. It is our responsibility as an industry to regain public trust and credibility in what we do, and to demonstrate that technical competence can be trusted. I believe the Code represents both a determined attempt on behalf of manufacturers to correct disingenuous marketing practices and a proactive and collaborative effort to address the issues highlighted in Dame Judith Hackitt’s Report.

“The first industry consultation in 2019 was key in establishing the way forward. We are now encouraging the industry to have their say once more before the Code is launched.

“We are reaching out to every organisation across the construction supply chain, whether that be manufacturers, specifiers, suppliers, distributors, contractors or installers. I hope businesses and individuals will embrace the opportunity to be involved, and recognise the urgency of change that is needed for our industry to ensure safe buildings.”

MIG Chair Adam Turk adds: “Following Grenfell, our industry reputation has been damaged. This Code is an opportunity to demonstrate our commitment to setting a level playing field for all construction product manufacturers to ensure that information they provide passes the five acid tests. In particular, that users of our products can once again rely upon the information given to them, to build the great buildings and infrastructure in which we live, work and play.”

Download the Code for Construction Products Information at www.buildingsafely.co.uk and register to have your say. The consultation will run until 31st March.

RIBA publishes findings of Architects Act amendments survey

The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has published the findings of its survey of the architects’ profession on proposed changes to the Architects Act. The 502 responses have informed the RIBA’s official submission to the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG) consultation on proposed changes to the Architects Act, which has also been published today.

From ensuring building safety to tackling the climate emergency, the areas prioritised by respondents reflect the challenges facing our industry and society, and the role architects must have in addressing them.

In response to the survey findings, RIBA President, Alan Jones, said: “This consultation is a defining moment – a real opportunity to ensure all current and future architects in the UK have the education, knowledge, skills and behaviours to make a positive impact on the built environment.

“The fact that the majority of the profession wish to retain the regulation of title and expand into regulation of function, demonstrates the vital and holistic role that architects know they must have to effectively deliver their expertise. We will soon be launching our mandatory Health and Life Safety requirements for RIBA members and will work with the MHCLG and ARB to coordinate practical competency measures for the whole profession to adopt.

“We also continue to call for urgent reforms of building safety regulations and procurement systems, and for an appropriately funded education system for future architects. These will help to ensure that the profession can deliver buildings that meet the quality, safety, and sustainability expectations of society.

“In light of post-Brexit agreements on professional qualifications, we will support the allocation of new ARB powers to negotiate international agreements that will assist UK

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architects in designing, delivering, and globally upholding the highest professional standards.”

Findings of the RIBA survey reveal: 85% of respondents acknowledge the importance of mandatory competence requirements in promoting standards and confidence within the profession;

• 75% believe that an architect’s competency should be monitored at regular intervals throughout their career; 70% think fire safety is the most important mandatory competence topic; 68% want to prioritise health, safety and wellbeing; 67% legal, regulatory and statutory compliance; and 50% sustainable architecture as mandatory competence topics;

• More than half of respondents (59%) want either planning or building control or both to be regulated functions.

Government sets new targets for green building revolution

Existing homes will also be subject to higher standards – with a significant improvement on the standard for extensions, making homes warmer and reducing bills.

The requirement for replacement, repairs and parts to be more energy efficient. This includes the replacement of windows and building services such as heat pumps, cooling systems, or fixed lighting. Housing Minister Rt Hon Christopher Pincher MP said: “Improving the energy performance of buildings is vital to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 and protecting the environment for future generations to come.

the operational energy or embodied carbon of new homes. The proposed ‘performance gap’ measures are not sufficient to determine how well new buildings actually perform. Both the Future Homes Standard and new Future Buildings Standard – which the RIBA and its members looks forward to helping shape – must provide the changes needed to meet net zero.”

All homes and businesses will have to meet rigorous new energy efficiency standards to lower energy consumption and bills, helping to protect the environment, the Housing Minister Chris Pincher has announced.

Responding to a consultation on the Future Homes Standard, the government has set out plans to radically improve the energy performance of new homes, with all homes to be highly energy efficient, with low carbon heating and be zero carbon ready by 2025.

These homes are expected to produce 7580% lower carbon emissions compared to current levels. To ensure industry is ready to meet the new standards by 2025, new homes will be expected to produce 31% lower carbon emissions from 2021.

“The radical new standards announced will not only improve energy efficiency of existing homes and other buildings, but will also ensure our new homes are fit for the future, by reducing emissions from new homes by at least 75%. This will help deliver greener homes and buildings, as well as reducing energy bills for hard-working families and businesses.”

RIBA President, Alan Jones, said: “Several measures outlined in the government’s response show some endeavour to tackle the climate crisis. Regulation to ensure no new home will be reliant on fossil fuels; decisions to close the loopholes in the transitional arrangements; and powers to allow local authorities to continue to set their own energy targets are all welcome. However, I am concerned to see no requirement to calculate

There will be stringent transitional arrangements in place to provide all developers with certainty about the standards they are building. These will last for one year and apply to individual homes, rather than an entire development. The Government has also announced a consultation on higher performance targets for non-domestic buildings which will mean they will be zero carbon ready by 2025.

The Government plans also include measures to tackle:

• Ventilation – a new requirement for additional ventilation and indoor air quality monitoring in high-risk nondomestic buildings such as offices and gyms, reducing the risk of any potential infections being spread indoors.

• Overheating in residential buildings - a new overheating mitigation requirement in the Building Regulations.

BBA appointed as an Approved Body for UKCA Marking CoreHaus

The British Board of Agrément has been appointed as an Approved Body, Technical Assessment Body and Notified Body (NI) by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. The UKCA (UK Conformity Assessed) Marking is a new UK product marking used for certain goods being placed on the market in Great Britain (England, Wales and Scotland). It has been introduced to replace the current CE Marking. An additional mark, UKNI, will be used in Northern Ireland.

As an Assessment Body the BBA will support manufacturers with conformity assessment tasks for their UKCA and UKNI Marking across a wide range of construction product areas and work closely with key industry partners, organisations and clients to certify products in support of UKCA Marking.

John Albon, Chief Scientific Officer at the BBA, said: “We are delighted to be appointed as a Conformity Assessment Body for UKCA Marking. Things are changing on an almost daily basis subsequent to the UK’s exit from the European Union, but with the BBA’s strong links to both our

valued industry partners and the UK Government, we are fortunate to not only be able to help our clients with their UKCA Marking requirements, but also support them through what has been, and still is, a long and challenging transitional process.

“What is important to note is that UKCA Marking became available on 1st January 2021 and we are now in a transitional stage where both UKCA and CE Marking can be used.

From 1st January 2022, UKCA will be the only marking recognised to allow access to the market in Great Britain. CE Marking will no longer be recognised within Great Britain.”

establishes first UK manufacturing site

Innovative modular housebuilder, CoreHaus, is opening its first UK manufacturing site at a County Durham business park as part of its scale-up plans.

CoreHaus has secured its new 20,000ft2 unit at Jade Business Park, in Murton near Seaham, and recruited a highly skilled team to start production of its unique modular homes, which have already been successfully trialled in the North East of England.

CoreHaus will now be able to expand production and perform a greater scope of work including the assembly of steel frames that are central to its modular homes.

The company’s five-year plan will see CoreHaus producing 1,000 modular homes a year, resulting in more than 100 people working across the business.

Guide for construction quality launched by CIOB

The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) has launched a new Guide for Construction Quality, focusing on quality management during the site production and assembly stage of construction projects. As we move into 2021, quality remains one of the CIOB’s main priorities, and is Mark Beard’s focus during his Presidential year.

“Our members are the standard-bearers for quality in the construction industry,” says Mark. “The vast majority of building work that takes place is of high quality, but our customers have a right to expect more. Regrettably, many parts of our industry are stuck in old ways of working, and for this reason, I urge members to champion the CIOB Quality Guide, to embed it into your businesses and to help everyone in our industry rediscover the pride in doing the job right first time.

Project

“As an industry, we need to go beyond the bare minimum and seek out the highest possible quality standards. By embracing CIOB new Guide for Construction Quality, we can and will achieve better”

The Guide promotes an approach to quality management that begins by identifying those issues that impact on quality on site, assessing their likelihood and impact, and proposing practical measures that can be taken to either mitigate or remove them. It is intended to be a practical guide for use by practitioners working collaboratively throughout the construction supply chain.

Paul Nash, Chair of the CIOB’s Quality Implementation Group, said: “By focusing on quality during the site production and assembly stage of a project, this guide aims to raise the bar for improving quality on site.

Residence

LEB Construction has completed a significant package of works on the high-profile £16.5m project to restore the historic Pantycelyn Halls of Residence at Aberystwyth University.

Morgan Sindall Construction appointed LEB Construction as one of its main subcontractors on the restoration project to deliver several packages of works including extensions and

alterations, groundworks, roofing, cladding and plastering. The team was involved in the design, fabrication and installation of the stunning architectural profiled cladding to the aluminium glazed reception area.

The complex installation required significant skill and commitment to ensure accurate and timely completion.

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“The report of the independent inquiry into the construction of the Edinburgh Schools and, more recently, the evidence we have heard from the Grenfell Inquiry, have underlined why a guide such as this is needed now, more than ever, if we are to ensure that the buildings we create are safe for those who use them.

“Along with the Code of Quality Management, this Quality Guide is part of the CIOB’s ongoing commitment to raise standards and promoting best practice in quality management and building safety in our industry.”

New report on future of MMC

An in-depth new NHBC Foundation report on how the role of Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) has evolved within the house-building industry has just been released. Prefabricated homes have been long-heralded as the future of house building; but if the arguments for homes to be manufactured like cars are so compelling, why is factory-built housing not more common?

That’s the question ‘Modern methods of construction: building on experience’ examines, by scrutinising notable periods of transformation in the industry and exploring the elements of design, as well as the social and economic influences, that fuel change. The report also looks at the history of nontraditional housing through a range of different technologies and advancements since the 19th century and how builders and developers can harness technological advances to respond to the increasing demand for new homes.

In summary, NHBC’s Head of Standards, Innovation and Research, Richard Smith, said: “As we navigate the COVID-19 pandemic and come out of the EU, there is an opportunity to innovate. This new report looks at the best features of homes from the past to inform the homes of the future. We really hope that ‘Modern methods of construction: building on experience’ will ultimately be an enabler of change for the industry.”

to restore historic Pantycelyn Halls of

MODULAR APPROACH IS HELPING TO PUSH THE DESIGN BOUNDARIES

Worth an estimated £40 billion to the UK, the modular construction sector is transforming and helping standardise the way homes are built.

The one and two bedroom apartments are built on a podium above a council-owned car park. This takes advantage of the air rights, removing the land cost and consequently making the development extremely affordable. Hope Rise is the first 100 per cent socially rented development of its kind in the country.

The Hope Rise development is a demonstration of how innovation can help to solve our housing crisis, through the way homes are built and rethinking land use in central Bristol.

50% of the homes will be delivered as affordable housing and it is intended that these become part of Bristol City Council’s affordable housing stock. All homes have been designed to achieve an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ‘A’ rating.

Legal & General’s modular housing business has continued to grow, now employing over 300 team members. Since May, it has secured planning approval for nearly 350 homes, as it moves towards delivering 3,000 homes a year at maturity.

With the importance of quality housing having been emphasised over successive lockdowns, modular construction is offering an impactful solution, supporting UK jobs and helping to meet government’s objective to build more affordable, carbon-friendly housing.

The multi-award-winning Hope Rise development on Chalks Road in St. George, Bristol has been welcoming its new residents as the new year begins.

Bristol City Council, in partnership with ZED PODS, YMCA and the Bristol Housing Festival, has provided these much needed attractive, zero-carbon modular ZED POD homes for young people at risk of homelessness as part of the council’s social housing provision.

From the outset, the project has looked for innovative ways to create a community, recognising that this cannot be done simply through physical design. Through collaboration with YMCA Bristol, two of the apartments have been assigned to designated ‘community builders,’ who will encourage interaction and neighbourliness in this new community, and encourage residents to invest in the Hope Rise and St. George communities. This will be something they will explore together as they settle in over the next few months. The principal contractor for the development is Impact Modular who constructed and delivered to site the ZED PODS designed homes under license from ZED PODS.

Planning consent has been granted for Legal & General Modular Homes to deliver 185 homes in Lockleaze, Bristol. The scheme, which has been developed in conjunction with Bristol City Council, will see two-, three- and four- bedroom houses along with one- and two-bedroom apartments developed on land at Bonnington Walk.

From its factory in Sherburn-in-Elmet in Yorkshire, Legal & General Modular Homes is providing an innovative approach to the design, production and construction of homes, driving up quality, efficiency and productivity to deliver highly energy efficient sustainable homes.

BoKlok UK, the sustainable, quality low-cost home provider, jointly owned by Skanska and IKEA, and leading affordable housing provider, VIVID, have announced a new innovative joint venture to deliver modular homes.

The two organisations are coming together to deliver new modular homes at pace and introduce a place-making concept that integrates communities and provides sustainable quality for both owner occupiers and affordable tenures.

BoKlok and VIVID are working collaboratively to deliver 300 new modular homes per year on sites throughout Hampshire, Surrey, Berkshire and West Sussex. The fiveyear agreement will see a joint approach to land, planning and the delivery of new modular homes which have achieved outstanding recognition in the Nordics.

ZED PODS

Legal & General

BoKlok UK

www.housingspecification.co.uk

IS 2021 THE YEAR OF THE STATEMENT BATHROOM?

The increasing popularity for statement bathrooms is supporting a new generation of bathroom design that is being utilised for both renovation projects and new build properties.

As professionals build on the bathroom evolution of the last few years to push the boundaries like never before, not only with regard to design, but also in relation to performance and sustainability,

Martin Walker, CEO of Methven, shares his insights into the top bathroom trends for 2021:

The additional benefit of well-made brassware is that it lends itself to both contemporary and traditional design schemes, adding a touch of metallic extravagance to modern schemes, or a touch of heritage charm to classic designs.

Monochrome

While the popularity of matte black appliances has been growing over recent years as it establishes itself as the perfect partner for gloss or matte marble effect tiles, monochrome continues to be a versatile design staple for any bathroom that adds a real touch of luxury, without the associated price tag.

This effective, high quality finish can be achieved by installing a complementary suite of products throughout the entire room.

This includes ranges such as Methven’s Amio matte black collection of mixer taps and bath mixers to create an on trend finish.

Contrasting schemes

Where previously a sea of white tiles and sanitaryware would have been commonplace throughout the bathroom, a new trend of contrasting colours, patterns and finishes is continuing to grow in popularity.

This includes combining angular, industrial elements with natural, earthy textures, as individuals look to create a relaxing and tranquil space that is still reflective of current trends. This is being achieved by creating walk in showers with natural effect tiles, such as wood, while combining with striking showers and taps.

Although a smaller detail than baths or tiles, brassware will play an essential role throughout 2021 in creating a luxurious, stand out bathroom. As the element of a bathroom that is used / touched the most, high quality brassware can instantly improve the aesthetics of a bathroom, adding metallic highlights that illuminate certain areas of the room, even in the smallest of spaces.

Chrome will be replaced with finishes including lustrous graphite, gunmetal, brushed nickel or rich gold across every area of the bathroom, from tapware and showers, to complementary accessories.

This is the ideal option for individuals who want a simplistic yet effective bathroom design, as a fresh approach to brassware can completely transform the overall aesthetic to add a true touch of luxury that will withstand frequent usage, even for the busiest of family bathrooms!

Methven

Methven

The addition of highlight colours, such as pastel pink sinks or baths, is also creating a real distinction between botanical influenced tiles and wallpaper.

Sustainable specification

But it’s not all about looks, a new bathroom must offer homeowners the level of reliability and resilience expected of such a functional space. This includes the sustainability and water consumption of the bathroom, a factor that is growing in importance, as many individuals look to reduce their water and energy consumption.

Methven’s Türoa collection is manufactured from high grade stainless steel, the brushed finish not only looks stunning, but reduces the need for the harmful chroming process and it enables the product to be recycled at the end of its life. What’s more, it offers significant water saving benefits due to its V-Jet® spray technology, which delivers a water-saving flow rate of 9 litres per minute with widespray coverage.

This enables homeowners to conserve water without compromising on the performance of their shower, while our Satinjet® showers use twin-jet spray technology to create the optimum water droplet size and pressure offering of 300,000 droplets a second. The patented design can also help customers save up to 50% on energy costs and up to 55% on the cost of water used in the shower.

Methven’s most innovative shower head design, Aio, encompasses Aurajet® showering technology, which delivers 20% more spray force and 2 x more skin contact than a conventional Methven shower, all at 9 litres per minute.

As 2020 presented many homeowners with the opportunity to take bolder choices with their bathroom design, this shift in approach will be amplified even further throughout 2021 as individuals look to achieve high quality performance, combined with a unique, effective finish.

Bringing walls to life through colour and pattern, the new Lloyd collection from CTD Architectural Tiles is guaranteed to add a wow-factor to residential projects.

Providing a decorative ornate finish, the chevron shape and pattern of the tiles provides specifiers and designers with the freedom to be creative and invigorate spaces in a sophisticated and elegant manner. A versatile product, the flared reliefs and fluted profiles provide an additional standout feature, setting it apart from other chevron ranges.

Available in a 55 x 195 x 8mm format, Lloyd is a glazed ceramic collection that comes in seven on-trend colourways – from deep navy to refreshing greige. Presented in a glazed gloss finish, the White colourway is also available in a matte finish.

Part of the Saint-Gobain family, CTD Architectural Tiles specialises in the supply of high-quality ceramic tile finishes and tiling solutions across all sectors in the UK specification market.

Mira Showers has launched a brand new digital shower, the Mira Activatecombining the latest digital technology, style and function to create a unique and powerful showering experience.

Available in single and dual outlets, the Mira Activate is designed for new installations as well as to specifically retrofit the Aqualisa Quartz, for easy, familiar installation.

It’s simpler to fit than many other showers on the market; the ceiling-fed fittings kit comes pre-assembled, and it has two digital valve platforms suitable for both high and low pressure systems, designed to make installers’ lives a breeze.

With unparalleled expertise and technical knowledge, the team works with industry leading, innovative manufacturers to offer a complete portfolio of ceramic and porcelain tile ranges to suit the architect, interior designer, developer and specification professional.

Methven

CTD Architectural Tiles

Mira Showers

NEW DOORS FOR A NEW AGE

With the world in turmoil, changing attitudes, social and economic upheaval everywhere, you could be forgiven for thinking that innovation within the interior doors market was likely to be on hold for a while.

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However at Vicaima the desire to move forward and push boundaries in design and performance has never lost momentum, even in the face of such challenges. And so, with the introduction of the 2021 Interior Door Selector; Vicaima bring new doors for a new age.

Their latest brochure contains over 100 pages of inspiration for professionals looking to transform homes, whether they be affordable, public or private, into spaces fit for tomorrow.

With its easy to navigate layout, ideas and solutions go hand in hand. Regardless of the primary criteria, be it cost effective simplicity or high end performance and trend-setting designs, the 2021 Interior Door Selector (IDS) has something for everyone.

What’s new in the 2021 IDS?

While some existing ranges have been developed, Vicaima have also taken the opportunity to introduce some striking new interior door products for 2021.

Using their expertise and understanding of design trends and modern social build requirements, this fresh approach allows specifiers the opportunity to expand their senses, with ideas that engage in both sight and touch; either capturing nature or taking it to another level.

There is no doubt that the past 12 months have raised everyone’s awareness of nature and the tranquillity and well-being it brings to our lives.

For many, who have endured staring at the same four walls for long period of time, the space around them has come into sharper focus and this is undoubtedly true when it comes to internal doors.

This heightened awareness of current and potential residents needs and desires, has seen a move by many housing providers, away from the decade’s old painted Georgian moulded doors, towards interiors that evoke the beauty of the outside world and bring that essence of nature inside, whether in the use of real wood or at the very least giving that appearance.

Alert to these changing times and new trends, Vicaima has introduced a series of doors products for 2021 that offer many of these attributes.

Among which the most notable include:

• Naturdor Stained Extra – Vertical and horizontal semi-translucent stained veneers. Providing real veneers with reliable consistency.

• Heritage Oak – Real Oak veneer with random grain and knots for a truly authentic look.

• Dekordor 3D Vertical – Durable embossed faces in 2 new Oak designs.

• Dekordor SD Touch – A Subtle textured foil finish in rich tones.

• Visual Sensations - Foil doors with a cross directional woodgrain appearance in Forest and Alpine colours.

Naturally all the new designs in the Vicaima range for 2021 are available to meet the latest and most stringent performance specifications. With certified solutions in Fire, Security and Acoustics, it really is the complete package.

Download your copy of the 2021 Interior Door Selector today or for further inspiration and new age ideas, Visit the Vicaima website www.vicaima.com contact info@vicaima.com or Tel: +44 (0) 1793 532333

Photo credits:

1. Vicaima Brochure – Interior Door Selector (IDS) 2021 2. Vicaima Dekordor 3D Glacier Oak 3. Vicaima Stained Extra Dark Taupe Horizontal

Vicaima

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DECEUNINCK: THE COMMERCIAL FENESTRATION EXPERTS

Windows and doors are sometimes overlooked, but they play a crucial part of the build process, providing natural light, ventilation, and architectural interest. For many years, aluminium was the specifier’s material of choice for commercial windows and doors because it offered strength, slim profiles and a range of colours. In contrast few specifiers chose PVC. PVC-U windows had better energy performance but were written off by many as bulky, unattractive and ‘shiny-white’.

Two generations later, improvements to existing materials and developments of new composite technologies are changing perceptions and giving developers an exciting choice of materials, styles and designs. Aluminium has evolved to improve energy performance but the best composite commercial PVC-U windows can now match aluminium for looks, colour and sustainability.

Coupled with advice and guidance from experienced window suppliers, the very best of this window technology works seamlessly with modern construction methods to create the right aesthetics, reduce installation time, and improve the building’s overall performance.

Products designed for commercial applications

Deceuninck is a leading window systems company with a thriving commercial business. Our windows and doors are engineered to create the perfect symmetry and balanced sightlines that translate into beautiful looks and performance, combined with outstanding security, energy efficiency and weather performance. Our flagship commercial product, Deceuninck’s 5000 window with Linktrusion™ technology is a popular choice with developers.

Linktrusion™ technology is the result of a €4 million investment and extensive product research, development and testing. Developed to remove the need for traditional steel reinforcement (which gives PVC-U strength but significantly reduces energy efficiency), it offers a true alternative to aluminium.

It has the same strength, slim profile and choice of colours as aluminium, but better thermal performance.

This pioneering technology incorporates strong pultruded glass-fibre in the profiles, plus optional patented thermal reinforcement with embedded steel wires in a low-density insulating foam core, encased in recycled PVC-U for excellent U values.

Windows manufactured with Linktrusion™ are as strong as steel reinforced windows, but 30% more thermally efficient, with up to 40% savings on materials and weight. Linktrusion™ technology is the first to remove the need for traditional steel reinforcement, and its great, inherent strength allows specifiers to consider using large windows and very tall doors (1100mm x 2500mm or 1150mm x 2400mm for single doors). The windows have slim sightlines, are available in a wide range of Decoroc powder-coated colours and are 100% recyclable.

Commercial partnerships

We’re proud of our strong ties in the commercial and housebuilding sectors, and we work with a number of prominent developers including Berkeley Group, Crest Nicholson, Countryside Properties, Weston Homes and Catalyst Housing. Our strength in these sectors comes from our ability to work with all parts of the supply chain and give advice in the early stages of product specification.

For example, Deceuninck’s commercial and technical teams and partner fabricators have extensive experience in off-site, modular and steel frame construction and we offer guidance on the interface of windows in modern construction methods, working with EPDM suppliers such as Tremco at specification stage.

We work closely with developers, specifiers, fabricators and contractors to see the full picture of how windows work within the build, be it timber frame, steel frame or modular, to ensure products meet technical specifications and are correctly installed and perform effectively in the finished project.

A recent example of this close collaboration with supplier and client in providing a full design solution came in the Springfield Park development with Weston Homes. This was a complex development of over 300 apartments in one tower and three low storey blocks.

John Duckworth, Deceuninck Head of Commercial Sales says suplpiers can play an important role in the design of commercial projects.

It incorporated a concrete frame construction with the windows fitted on front of the frame in steel brackets, followed by EPDM shrouding. Deceuninck’s commercial and technical teams worked with window fabricator FastFrame to provide the technical information required for the interface and correct installation of the windows.

Our Linktrusion™ 2500 Fully Reversible Window (FRW) in Decoroc Quartz Grey successfully broke the original specification for aluminium because it combined slim, contemporary profiles with outstanding thermal and acoustic performance.

The development, close to roads, railways and the river Thames called for acoustic windows to minimise the impact of external noise and low U-Values to meet stringent energy requirements. Deceuninck’s FRW comfortably met these requirements with decibel reductions in the mid-40s and U-Values as low as 1.3 W/m2K.

Experts in modular developments

The Hinkley Point Worker Accommodation development was another technically demanding project in which 80% of the 1,400 windows were installed into prefabricated modules off-site. Working in partnership with fabricator Dempsey Dyer, Deceuninck’s technical team ensured our Tilt and Turn windows met the highest energy and weather requirements both off-site and in installation.

Once assembled, the windows passed the most stringent CWCT water testing, normally only used for curtain walling. Deceuninck’s technical team worked with Dempsey Dyer to successfully cut the windows’ decibel rating down by RW35db to RW40db and RW43db, helping to minimise the impact of noise on workers to make a quieter, healthier environment.

More recently, Dempsey Dyer has started supplying Deceuninck’s 2500 series windows for university student accommodation. This modular construction project in conjunction with a major international developer will see the windows shipped to Morocco for installation in a modular factory, with further commissioning on site in the UK.

Together with Dempsey Dyer, we’ve facilitated this project by giving advice on design, purge ventilation and interface detail. Dempsey Dyer is also sending a team to Morocco to train workers on effective modular installation. It’s an exciting project and we predict the strong trend for modular construction will continue to grow.

Learn more about Deceuninck and our commercial work by calling 01249 816 969 or visiting www.deceuninck.co.uk. You can also download our full product portfolio from the NBS National BIM Library at www.nationalbimlibrary.com/deceuninck-ltd.

Deceuninck Ltd

To make an enquiry - Go online: www.enquire2.com or post our free

THE BENEFITS OF DUAL CERTIFICATION FOR SOCIAL HOUSING PROVIDERS

Social landlords can reassure tenants of the fire safety and security performance of doorsets by specifying products that have achieved independent, third-party dual certification.

Door-Stop International and Warringtonfire, explain the benefits of choosing fire doorsets with this additional layer of testing:

What is the difference between a fire door and a fire doorset?

A fire door usually only refers to the fire door leaf. The door leaf is installed into a compatible frame, complete with its compatible essential ironmongery. A fire doorset is supplied pre-assembled in the frame, manufactured to the required size and includes all of the correct components such as ironmongery and seals.

Fire doorsets should be third-party tested and certificated using an independent UKAS accredited test house and certification body such as Warringtonfire and BM TRADA. This provides assurances on the doorsets performance and the manufacturer’s integrity.

What is dual certification?

“Dual scope certification is where fire and security performance is certified under the responsibility of a single certification body,” explains Mark West, Technical Development Engineer at Warringtonfire.

“All the testing and assessments are carried out to carefully ensure both performances are maintained, the scope of certification and specification is identical and any security features do not affect the fire performance and vice versa.”

How does it compare to other fire door testing?

“Dual scope certification provides confidence that the product meets its required performance for both fire and security, and that any changes to the product are developed with fire, security and all other relevant performances in mind,” says Mark. “Any future product enhancements will be rigorously assessed in all applicable areas. This ensures that neither fire nor security performance is compromised at any point, a position that cannot necessarily be achieved when the certification is not linked in this way.”

Warringtonfire and BM TRADA, which are both part of the Element Group, are one of the few certification bodies in the UK with the technical competence to offer this dual certification through

their Certisecure, Certifire and Q-Mark certification schemes. Certisecure, a scheme recognised by Secured by Design (SBD), is used by Warringtonfire to demonstrate a fire doorsets security credentials.

How does dual certification fit in to wider fire safety legislation?

Dual certification provides all the information required for the golden thread; one of the recommendations of the Hackitt Review.

In MHCLG’s response to the Building a Safer Future consultation, it announced that all 53 of

the recommendations from the Hackitt review were going to be implemented.

The response gave more clarity on the new regulatory regime and defined the duty-holders for the design, construction and refurbishment phases of a building.

The client, principal designer and principal contractor have a vital role in creating and maintaining the golden thread.

At the third and final gateway, the client must submit information on the final building which will form part of the golden thread data.

When the building has been approved, the golden thread will be handed over to the accountable person who, alongside the Building Safety Manager, will keep the golden thread updated with the latest building information. This includes any future refurbishment works.

What can social landlords do to improve fire safety in their buildings?

“Fire safety is about hundreds, if not thousands, of different factors, that need to work together as a complete system if an emergency happens. Refusing to take a holistic view of fire safety is short-sighted, and as we know, deadly,” says Hannah Mansell, Group Technical Director of Premdor Crosby.

“Those that sit and wait for legislation to make buildings safer are going to be waiting for a very long time.

“There are no excuses. Those responsible for fire safety need to get with the program now.”

The new Door-Stop International fire and security doorset range aims to be the product of choice for those reviewing their fire safety strategies and who want to improve their existing buildings or specify new developments. Designed by Door-Stop, a subsidiary of Premdor Crosby, the timber core product with GRP facings is third-party certificated. A robust base of primary test evidence has been used as the foundation for certification.

The Door-Stop Fire and Security DualCertificated Doorset is Certifire-certified by Warringtonfire. Although it is not a requirement for timber fire doors, it has been furnace tested from both directions to provide additional assurances to building owners and occupants.

“Do not be complacent; third party certification is not the singular factor that will find the holy grail of fire safety in a building,” warns Hannah. “Even a perfectly produced fire door will not perform to expectations if installed incorrectly.

“Installation of fire doorsets needs to be considered hand in hand with the product itself, as a complete system. This is why we have also tested our doorset with a range of lineal gap sealing systems to provide this assurance of the ‘system’ working.

“Installation must also be carried out in accordance with certification and the manufacturer’s guidance, using approved material and methods. This must be supported by regular maintenance to ensure that the product will perform in an emergency. If it isn’t installed correctly, certification is invalid and the required level of safety and protection may not be provided to the building’s occupants.”

Regular, open communication with residents is also key. Every doorset that Door Stop supplies is shipped with detailed installation instructions and a Resident Guide.

The guide includes an easy to follow check list that will help residents avoid the common pitfalls that prevent fire doors performing in the event of an emergency, as well as the methods to report concerns, find out further information and fully trace their fire doorset back to its original certification and specification.

For further information about dual certification and the Door-Stop fire doorset range and, visit the Door-Stop website.

www.door-stop.co.uk/firedoors

To make an enquiry - Go online: www.enquire2.com or post our free Reader

PAC’S CLOUD-BASED ACCESS CONTROL TECHNOLOGY TAKES UP RESIDENCE AT COUNCIL

Ealing Council serves the residents and businesses of the capital’s fourth largest borough. With a vast housing portfolio and a commitment to keeping residents as safe and secure as possible, Ealing Council benefits from the use of PAC’s innovative cloud based access control solution.

Ealing Council’s task is to provide a diverse range of services to 350,000 residents across the area. It is committed to improving its performance, while ensuring value for money, and a key part of this is the provision of good quality housing that meets the highest possible standards.

In addition to carrying out property allocation, repairs, rent collection, homelessness services and estate management, Ealing Council is responsible for ensuring the security and safety of the tenants living in its 300+ housing blocks.

Over the last few years the cloud has proven to be a game changer in the way access control technology is designed, configured and used.

The PAC Residential Cloud leads the way in allowing organisations to remotely manage and monitor their access control systems.

Meanwhile, the PAC controllers used as part of the Ealing Council system utilise the general packet radio service (GPRS) platform, which is a faster and cost effective means of connecting remote sites via a mobile network.

Sam Flowers, regional sales manager at PAC, explains how the council team can address technical issues, deal with key fob management, examine diagnostics, view system status, set and unset a system, and gain access to event logs and reports – all from a remote location:

“Without the cloud any problems and issues would need to be dealt with by office-based individuals, which is obviously restrictive and can lead to a delayed response.

“We also provide a full online training programme to help customers get the best out of their systems and provide full technical support.”

Ealing Council strictly adheres to the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and has implemented a strong data protection policy.

PAC Residential Cloud is hosted with The Bunker, a trusted PAC partner, whose UK data centres are located in former nuclear bunkers and certified to the ISO 27001 standard for information security management.

As well as enjoying the operational advantages of the PAC Residential Cloud, Ealing Council is also planning to advance its transition to a fully internet protocol (IP) based access control system by upgrading to PAC’s 512DCi digital networkable access controllers.

Daljit Gill, of Ealing Council, concludes: “Installing the PAC 512DCi’s will allow us to maximise operational effectiveness through our investment in the PAC Residential Cloud.

“We will also be able to utilise PAC’s high frequency OPS MIFARE DESFire EV1 readers, which have been tested to meet Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) 128 bit compliance. This will further reduce the risk of key fob cloning and ensure that our tenants benefit from improved levels of security.”

PAC

BRITFRAME

By

• Proudly manufactured in the UK

• Eliminates the need for hot rolled steel or a concrete primary frame

• Protects the existing flat roof with a durable, cost-effective roof covering

• Our systems are guaranteed for 40 years, designed with an expected lifetime of 60 years

• Enhances the thermal performance of the existing building, reducing heating costs and saving energy

• Extends the life of a flat roof by double

Full audited design and installation service, supported with a full independent insurancebacked warranty Britmet is committed to supplying the marketplace with a bespoke refurbishment/new build system package, incorporating a lightweight steel framing system that is primarily designed to create a roof pitch. Their Britframe system offers a permanent solution to failed flat roofs and can be used to construct a variety of pitched or curved roof structures.

All projects are individually designed and tailored to suit the specific structural design requirements of the existing roof, offering a permanent solution to failed flat roofs. This lightweight structural metal frame system has an excellent strength to weight ratio, as Britframe over-roof conversion systems are constructed using a bespoke lightweight steel framing system, primarily designed to create a roof pitch but can support both modern and traditional over-cladding systems to achieve the required aesthetics.

Britmet’s Britframe system has been recommended and specified on a fundamental number of projects including schools, MOD, social housing and many more.

Before After

MIRA’S SOCIAL HOUSING TOOLBOX DEMOS GO VIRTUAL

Mira Showers’ handy Toolbox Demonstrations - aimed at helping with the installation and maintenance of its productscan now be delivered virtually, in a bid to continue to assist the social housing sector during the pandemic.

The aim of the Toolbox Training programme is to promote good shower installation practice, with Mira offering free sessions to housing associations, local authorities and their contractors via workshops, which were previously delivered in person across the UK.

In order to comply with current government guidance and increase accessibility, the shower manufacturer is now offering these sessions in a COVID-secure way, whilst still delivering a quality service to the sector.

Mira’s Toolbox Demos offer practical advice,

taking a hands-on approach. Using real examples, photographs and demo products, Mira’s trainers address common problems found in social housing bathrooms.

Problems such as plumbing materials clogging filters and affecting flow rates, or showers being affected by kinks in the hose - a typical issue when used by carers for assisted showering.

The training adds real value to the sector by ensuring a sound working knowledge of product installation, maintenance and fault diagnosis.

Graham Short, National Sales Manager –Social Housing at Mira Showers, said: “At Mira we know that when it comes to looking after properties in the social housing sector, a quick and efficient service is of the essence.

“That’s why we have a dedicated training scheme for professionals in this sector to help with the installation and maintenance of our showers.

“We’re really pleased to be able to offer these sessions virtually now, as the pandemic presses on, the need for this type of support remains and we can now offer our quality, informative and invaluable sessions in a COVID-secure way across the UK.”

Mira Toolbox Training is offered free of charge for local authorities, housing associations and their approved contractors. Sessions can be tailored to offer expertise and support on how to install, troubleshoot and configure a range of Mira’s products for application in social housing settings.

To arrange a virtual Toolbox Training session, please contact your local Mira Showers Area Specification Manager; in Scotland calum.mcconnell@kohlereurope.com; in the North of England paul.critchlow@mirashowers.com; in the Midlands, North Wales and East England dean.develing@mirashowers.com; in the South, South West and South Wales mitch.brooks@kohlereurope.com; and in London and the South East rajpreet.badesha@mirashowers.com.

Mira Showers

A GLOBAL SUSTAINABILITY AND CLIMATE LEADER

Leading manufacturer of water pumps and pump systems, Wilo Group, has been announced as one of the top 50 Sustainability & Climate Leaders.

With a target of providing 100 million people with access to drinking water by 2025, Wilo is heavily incorporating sustainability into its approach and working to provide intelligent, efficient and climate-friendly solutions.

To find out more about Wilo’s energy efficient products, visit: wilo.com/gb/en

DEKTEK ALUMINIUM DECKING

ONLEVEL’s New Non-Combustible Aluminium Decking System.

ONLEVEL are proud to announce the introduction of DEKTEK, a fully noncombustible aluminium decking system, perfect for residential and mixed-use developments.

The product development team at ONLEVEL have been busy again, DEKTEK is the fourth new product launched in 2020. The innovative A2 fire rated aluminium decking system features non-combustible deck boards, subframe and adjustable cradles. DEKTEK has been designed to replace frequently used non-fire rated products to provide peace of mind, better performance, and easier installation.

Made in the EU from structural grade 6063 T6 aluminium DEKTEK is ideal for high rise concrete balconies, terraces walkways, roof terraces, pubs, gardens and numerous other decking applications and public areas.

It is simple to install with an adjustable cradle and deck support system, the cradle spacing extends up to 1800 mm in width to aid installation. The system is lightweight for efficient transportation and ease of installation.

Furthermore, DEKTEK is a low maintenance system offering a cost saving up to 50%, when compared to other systems. Gary Dean Director, ONLEVEL comments: “I’m so pleased to be talking about another fantastic addition to the ONLEVEL range of products. DEKTEK is a system that provides both peace of mind and cost savings. It’s a system that provides great benefits and dovetails nicely with the range of solutions we already offer, such as our balustrading and railing systems”

DEKTEK provides peace of mind, the system has been manufactured to last and withstand the inclement British weather, so throw away your paint brush! It has a 100 micron Qualicoat™ premium powder coating with a 10 year warranty. The premium coating is slip resistant and provides low surface temperatures underfoot, especially when compared to composite materials.

DEKTEK outdoor aluminium decking boards are available in three colours; Anthracite, Black and Serengeti Sand. The Qualicoat™ premium powder coat finish provides an extremely strong and UV stable surface finish.

In addition to the numerous glass hardware solutions ONLEVEL provide, four new product ranges have been introduced in 2020, DEKTEK, Banana Slide, a simple, sleek, and easy to install internal glass sliding door system, plus LAZORTRACK and SPARTAN LED SPIGOT, two innovative LED lighting solutions to suit a range of glass railing solutions.

Furthermore, ONLEVEL has developed a fantastic online resource this year, with their new website www.onlevel.com, featuring the full range of product, technical information, news, and downloadable documents.

ONLEVEL recently created their new allencompassing product catalogue featuring ONLEVEL’s full range of glass hardware solutions.

With over 290 pages of products, available to download or in hard co py format, it’s the ‘go to’ glass hardware brochure for designers and installers alike!

ONLEVEL

WETHERBY WORKING WITH LEADING BRANDS FOR TOTALWALL SYSTEM

With extensive experience in creating the right façade solutions for a variety of build types, Wetherby is working with Frameclad, Kemwell and ROCKWOOL to deliver the TotalWall system.

The TotalWall solution is a unique, fully engineered, certified and tested system for the building envelope.

TotalWall provides a complete solution for specifiers, suitable for structural (loadbearing) and non-structural (infill) applications for a variety of markets.

Supplying all components in one system, from the internal plasterboard and light gauge steel frame to the façade finish and everything in between.

The system benefits from being the only ‘through wall’ system on the market to undergo a 2-hour fire test both ways (from inside to out & outside to in). This thorough testing offers piece of mind to the specifiers, clients and occupants.

The steel frame and external wall system is also approved by the 60-year BOPAS assurance scheme, which means the system has a minimum life expectancy of 60 years for durability and maintenance.

For further information on the new TotalWall system, or any other products from Wetherby Building Systems, visit www.wbs-ltd.co.uk or call 01942 717100.

Wetherby Building Systems Ltd

Wetherby Building Systems Ltd, a market leader in External Wall Insulation systems has teamed up to work with three other leading industry brands to unveil the TotalWall | Fire Tested System.

CUPA PIZARRAS WINS BEST CLADDING SYSTEM AT THE BUILD IT AWARDS

The annual event recognises all aspects of self-build and renovation, including completed projects, services and suppliers. The ceremony brings together architects and manufacturers as well as key industry figures in the self-build sector to award those who have gone above and beyond in terms of innovation and excellence.

CUPACLAD is a natural slate rainscreen cladding system that combines traceable, handcrafted natural slates from CUPA PIZARRAS’ own Spanish quarries with stainless steel fixings and aluminium alloy brackets. The patented system is designed to meet the highest technical requirements of the construction industry.

To back up its submission, CUPA PIZARRAS highlighted the success of a recent CUPACLAD installation at Costa Street in Peckham.

CUPACLAD 101 Logic was specified to clad the upper portion of a new and unusual, leaning residential housing block. A completely natural material, slate provided imperfections and rough edges, which suited the desired aesthetic for the block of houses.

In addition, the slate helped to reflect the character of the surrounding, more traditional red brick, slate roofed buildings.

On the award win, Yasmin Herfegar, UK CUPACLAD Coordinator at CUPA PIZARRAS commented: “We were delighted that our CUPACLAD system has won this award and been recognised for its sustainable credentials and its practicality as a cladding system.

“Rainscreen cladding systems are now widely considered to be the most efficient solution available for construction purposes due to the double-wall design, providing insulation and keeping out the rain and wind.

“At CUPA PIZARRAS, we are dedicated to providing high quality products for every project and we believe that our cladding solution is a versatile, sustainable and innovative product that can be used for a variety of projects.”

CUPA PIZARRAS

The Spanish slate company took home the award for Best Cladding System at the virtual Build It Awards ceremony. CUPA PIZARRAS’ CUPACLAD Natural Slate Rainscreen Cladding system was recognised for its durability, sustainability, timeless design and straightforward installation.

DOMUS VENTILATION LAUNCHES NEXT GEN HIGH PERFORMANCE MVHR SYSTEMS

Domus Ventilation, part of the Polypipe group, has launched its next generation, improved performance HRXE Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) units for a wider range of residential properties than ever before.

HRXE-HERA™ and HRXE-AURA™ high performance MVHR systems combine supply and extract ventilation in one system. They efficiently recover the heat typically lost in waste, stale air and use it to temper the fresh air drawn into the building via a heat exchanger.

The filtered, pre-warmed air is distributed to areas of the home such as living rooms and bedrooms, effectively meeting part of the heating load in energy efficient dwellings.

Building on the success of previous HRXE MVHR systems, Domus has developed HRXE-HERA and HRXE-AURA to provide even greater efficiency through advanced heat exchange proficiency and the lowest Specific Fan Power (SFP) of any of its MVHR units.

Furthermore, the new range now comes with an improved warranty of five years, with the first year covering parts and labour. HRXEHERA and HRXE-AURA have also benefitted from a modern, sleek new design in white and grey, with a front facia, which is consistent across the range.

For the homeowner, this makes for a more attractive unit, even if it is contained within a cupboard! For the developer, the consistent look across the range is more appealing and the design is very much in line with contemporary white goods. HRXE-HERA is suited to use IN smaller properties of up to two/three bedrooms, with the HRXE-AURA extending the range to larger homes of up to four/five bedrooms.

Domus Ventilation

VILLAGE TO BECOME ZERO CARBON ROLE MODEL

An East Sussex village could hold one of the keys to helping the UK reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Residents in Barcombe are helping their local electricity network operator to create a model roadmap for ‘greener’ home heating that will in time show the way for other communities to follow suit.

Fossil-fuel based heating accounts for around a third of UK carbon emissions, making decarbonising heat a vital part of the UK’s legally-binding commitment to reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Across the UK, there are four million properties like those in Barcombe which are ‘off-gas grid’, meaning residents burn fossil fuels for cooking and heating. This produces significant carbon emissions and is often expensive.

Over 600 households are involved in the ‘CommuniHeat’ project, run by network operator UK Power Networks.

Throughout the two-year project, engineers will work with community groups and local partners to research, gather data and compare approaches for reducing the village’s carbon emissions from household heating.

CommuniHeat aims to best understand how Barcombe and similar communities could switch to low-carbon heating using electricity. Engineers from UK Power Networks will work with local community group Ovesco to host digital community events and engagement to understand residents’ needs and opinions.

The project will also install energy meters in the village and consultancy Buro Happold will create new computer models to forecast the impacts of electrifying heat. In doing so, the project partners hope to create a sustainable, replicable model for Barcombe that could be applied in other parts of the country.

UK Power Networks

INSPIRATION, APPLICATION, SOLUTION !

DRU gas fires are among the most advanced heating appliances in Europe, with a choice of over 50 models. There are many inspiring designs, including 2, 3-sided, seethrough and freestanding fires.

Complete freedom of installation

They require no chimney, and with the addition of the patented DRU PowerVent ® extended flue system, they can be installed in the most unlikely locations.

Tablet or smartphone controls

You can select your preferred flame picture, heat output and much more using the exclusive DRU Eco Wave app for tablets and smartphones. It all adds up to the UK’s most complete gas fire solution.

DRU is an approved CPD provider to architects and DRU fires have many design features that make them ideal for inclusion in architect-led projects.

DRU Passo Eco Wave gas stove

AICO FACILITATE PANEL DISCUSSION ON LACORS REFORM

Aico facilitated a panel discussion on the LACORS (Local Authorities Coordinators of Regulatory Services) guidance document, in partnership with the NRLA (National Residential Landlords Association).

Aico’s Southern Specification Manager, Tina Mistry hosted the discussion, and was joined by panel members from Hackney Council, Leeds City Council, C S Todd & Associates Ltd and the National Residential Landlords Association. Also present were representatives from the National Fire Chiefs Council, the Greater London Authority and the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health.

The panel discussed the impact of the LACORS guidance document on the varying groups within the Housing and Fire Safety sectors, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the document.

It was noted that LACORS is a guidance document and not a design document and therefore should be treated as such.

The simplicity and accessibility of the document was praised, for both private landlords and Local Authorities, however it was agreed that the document is quite significantly outdated and in need of review.

New ownership of the LACORS document must be established following the Local Government Association’s relinquishment of their authority over LACORS. This ownership could be established by government bodies such as the Home Office, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG).

It was agreed amongst the panellists that the document did not need to be completely overhauled; there were three key areas that needed updating, namely Fire Detection, Fire Doors and Fire Extinguishers. Consensus was reached that sections needed to be added to the document to include Fire Risk Assessments, examples of archetypes and Resident Engagement.

All parties pledged to work collaboratively together. It was agreed consultation for the review of the documents, re-write of the section and writing of the new sections would initially be done by all relevant parties present on the panel, then to their membership for feedback prior to agreeing a final version.

It was noted that the collective group felt that this process could be undertaken within a sixmonth timescale.

Moving forward, LACORS documents should be updated naturally like all British Standards and that this situation should never arise again where such a platform is required. It was agreed that there are various Regulations, Standards and legislation produced from various governmental departments that refer to cross reference subjections of LACORS, and that there is a clear need to have a centralised online library where all can be reviewed parallel to one another.

Concluding remarks were that the LACORS document needed ownership and subsequent consultative updates to reflect the areas raised in this discussion, after which the document would be adopted by all within the sector. It was put to the Home Office, HSE and MHCLG that a response to the issues highlighted in this panel discussion was expected in six months’ time, Monday 8th March 2021. Aico

Actively monitors a property’s RadioLINK+ or SmartLINK enabled alarms

Minimises the requirement of property access causing less disruption

Utilises the best available mobile connection for reliable connection

Collates data and provides real-time notifications

Accessible intelligence that can be actioned, reported and and documented

Enables solution focused asset management

PYROGUARD’S MULTI-FUNCTIONAL FIRE SAFETY GLASS

Through the informed specification of additional counterpanes, architects, specifiers and contractors can create beautiful and bespoke glazing systems, without compromising on fire safety.

As specialists in fire safety glass for over 30 years, Pyroguard now manufactures and supplies the widest range of tested and certified bespoke system solutions on the market. For architectural and construction projects that require more than just fire protection, Pyroguard’s toughened range of fire safety glass offers complete flexibility and a uniquely tailored option.

With the support of Pyroguard’s technical sales managers, customers can create a truly multi-functional fire safety glazing system. Toughened products can be combined with additional counterpanes that offer different benefits including acoustic performance, solar control, decorative or attack resistance, and be used for various applications such as façades, atria, doors, screens, partitions and spandrel panels.

Depending on the fire rating and classification level that is required, any specialist counterpane can be used in conjunction

with Pyroguard Firesafe (E and EW) or Pyroguard Protect (EI). For manual attack protection, Attackguard can be used as an IGU counterpane and for smoke control, Smokeguard is the ideal solution. As every project is unique, solutions are engineered to meet each customer’s individual requirements.

Andy Lake, UK Projects Director at Pyroguard, commented: “While safety is - and remains - at the core of the Pyroguard business, we rarely see a project where fire protection is the only requirement within a glazing system.

“We believe that making buildings safe should not have to compromise on aesthetically pleasing design or other practical benefits, such as noise control for example, and that’s why we want to make sure that our customers are aware of the multi-functional benefits that our toughened fire safety glass offers.

“To support the campaign, we have developed a series of videos that are available to view via our website, as well as a new flyer which outlines the unique benefits of our multifunctional product. We would encourage people to take a look at these to develop an understanding of what can be achieved and to get in touch should they have any enquiries.”

Pyroguard’s team of local technical experts will work closely with customers to select the correct fire rating and classification of glass, and then provide support to build the right solution and desired finish. Pyroguard’s range of toughened products are certified for application in steel, aluminum and timber profiles and have been approved by Certifire, UK and Efectis, France, providing peace of mind for architects, specifiers, contractors and end-users.

Pyroguard

Fire safety glass manufacturer, Pyroguard, has launched a campaign to raise awareness of the multi-functional benefits its toughened fire safety glass offers.

by Appointment to Her Majesty The Queen Manufacturers Of Wood Preservatives

Protim Solignum Ltd Marlow, Buckinghamshire