Housing Specification February/March 2020

WelcomeA third of construction professionals believe the industry still has ‘inadequate’ knowledge and training around fire safety in the wake of the Grenfell Tower disaster, new research has found.

The study carried out by Iman Farah Mohamed, a Quantity Surveying student at Birmingham City University, looked at industry views on fire safety following the tragic incident in June 2017, which saw 72 people lose their lives and more than 70 others injured.

It found that most professionals think ‘knowledge surrounding fire safety in the construction industry’ is inadequate, while the majority also believe higher education institutions need to do more to educate construction students on fire safety before they enter the sector.

Responders to the research highlighted concerns with the sector’s approach to fire safety in the wake of the Grenfell Tower fire. Iman Farah Mohamed who wrote the paper said: “The research showed that there remains some concern in the construction industry around the knowledge and training provided in relation to fire safety.

“Grenfell was a major incident which brought the issue to the front of people’s minds, but while the awareness in the industry has increased, most professionals want to see more from the sector and higher education providers to prioritise fire safety.

“The recommendations suggest how we can make sure professionals of the future are equipped with the knowledge they need to prevent a tragedy like this in the future, and that regulations and guidelines are updated to add a much-needed extra layer of protection.”

The study recommends that: specialist training be made available to workers across the sector; visiting lecturers and specialist practitioners, such as fire safety engineers, should form part of higher education construction courses; new regulations should be introduced to protect against future disasters based on building materials or practices; and funding should be made available to ensure professionals are equipped with the knowledge they need.

As the public inquiry into the Grenfell Tower enters its critical second phase and new building regulations are being announced, it is still clear there is still a lot of work to do in what Dame Judith Hackitt referred to as “changing the culture” of the industry.

Paul Groves Group Editor

paul.groves@tspmedia.co.uk

Are you ‘Boiler Plus’ savvy?

Leading PVC-U window systems company Deceuninck is breaking new ground in commercial windows and doors. Its award-winning

Flush Window, Heritage Flush Door and Fully Reversible Window (FRW) combine beautiful, sleek looks with outstanding performance. All these products are

in 26 colourways from stock. Deceuninck works closely with commercial partners to help them meet project specifications, and the company has an impressive portfolio of commercial projects.

Competition to deliver homes fit for the future

Housing Minister Christopher Pincher has launched a competition to attract the best and brightest talents of the housing industry to design the homes of the future. Small businesses, designers and manufacturers are invited to come forward with ideas for new low carbon, age-friendly homes, meeting the highest standards of design.

These homes will be aimed at meeting the needs of the country’s growing elderly generation, using technology and the latest innovations to improve their quality of life. Three finalists will have the opportunity to partner with developers to deliver homes on a site owned by Homes England.

This follows the government’s recent consultation on a new Future Homes Standard, which would require all new homes built from 2025 to have 80% fewer carbon emissions.

Housing Minister Christopher Pincher MP said: “This competition will harness all that technology has to offer to bring in a housing revolution: new

low carbon homes that deliver low energy bills and independent living for older generations. The new gold standard of building will have the future in mind – not just in the United Kingdom, but worldwide.” Last year the United Kingdom became the first major economy in the world to sign a commitment to net-zero emissions into law, leading the way in tackling climate change.

Homes are responsible for 25% of carbon emissions in the United Kingdom, and the new competition will place energy efficiency at the forefront of new home design. And as part of the government’s modern Industrial Strategy, the government is committed to ensuring that people can enjoy at least 5 extra years of healthy independent living by 2035.

More than 10 million people in the UK today can expect to see their 100th birthday, compared to 15,000 current centenarians. The competition seeks out the highest standards of age-adaptable design, so that as people grow older, they are supported in living independent, fulfilling lives.

Sharpest rise in construction output since December 2018

UK construction companies signalled a return to business activity growth during February, following a nine-month period of declining workloads.

The latest survey also pointed to the sharpest rise in new orders since December 2015.

Anecdotal evidence mainly linked the recovery to a post-election improvement in business confidence and pent-up demand for new projects. At 52.6 in February, up from 48.4 in January, the headline seasonally adjusted IHS Markit/CIPS UK Construction Total Activity Index registered above the 50.0 no-change value for the first time since April 2019.

Moreover, the latest reading signalled that the overall rate of construction output growth was the fastest for 14 months.

Residential activity remained the bestperforming construction category. Latest data signalled the strongest expansion of house building activity since July 2018.

Tim Moore, Economics Director at IHS Markit, which compiles the survey: “Some construction firms suggested that the recovery in output would have been even stronger had there not been disruptions on site from severe weather conditions in February.

“While construction order books have begun to recover in the opening part of 2020, the fly in the ointment is the uncertain impact of the coronavirus outbreak on UK economic growth prospects. A renewed slowdown could see domestic investment spending put back on hold and dampen the outlook for the UK construction sector.”

Applicants will submit an outline design for homes that are:

Age-friendly and inclusive –appealing to a variety of age groups and adaptable to how needs will change as people become older

• Low environmental impact – applying technology and construction techniques to deliver net zero carbon emissions

• Healthy living – promoting better health and wellbeing, such as through access to green spaces and communal areas

Deliverable & scalable – homes that can be rolled-out across the country

Hörmann celebrates 10 years of RollMatic range

This year marks the tenth anniversary of leading door manufacturer Hörmann UK’s innovative RollMatic garage door range.

Ten years on from its UK launch, Hörmann UK’s RollMatic garage door range remains a popular choice for architects, house builders, installers and homeowners, providing the highest standard in quality and safety.

Building on Hörmann’s German manufacturing expertise, the RollMatic door opens vertically for enhanced usability, requiring minimum space inside the garage whilst simultaneously offering maximum space inside the garage.

Adding to its appeal, the RollMatic door delivers first class safety standards. With the inclusion of an innovative and reliable automatic safety cut-out, the door securely stops and reverses into the opening if it encounters an obstacle, eliminating the need for an additional closing edge safety devices.

Professional bodies pledge to tackle climate change

Twenty-five built environment professional bodies in membership of the Construction Industry Council together with the UK Green Building Council, the Edge and the University College of Estate Management have joint pledged to work together to tackle climate change.

They have issued a joint statement that recognises that the breakdown in global climate and biodiversity is the most serious issue of our time and that the built environment is a major contributor.

The 28 signatories to the statement acknowledge that the built environment accounts for almost 40 per cent of energy-related carbon dioxide emissions whilst also having a significant impact on our natural habitats.

Signalled in the statement is “an urgent need for coordinated action to address and mitigate the impact of the built environment on both the climate change and biodiversity ‘emergencies’.”

To this end, the signatories have established a Climate Change Panel, formed from leaders within each profession and convened by CIC, to aid collaboration and shared endeavour between the professional bodies.

Stephen Hodder MBE, Chairman of the CIC said: “This is the most pressing issue of our time. Those in the built environment have an enormous role to play in reducing carbon dioxide emissions from new and existing buildings and infrastructure. There is no time to lose and we hope in forming this unprecedented alliance our collective skills, knowledge and influence will drive necessary change.”

Aico launches SmartLINK Gateway technology

wireless technology to report events including fire/CO activations and alarm head removals as they happen to the SmartLINK cloud portal, for full visibility and remote monitoring.

Members of the National Federation of Builders (NFB) and House Builders Association (HBA) have a strong history of stimulating green policies.

From installing renewables and building energy efficient housing with British made products, to supporting biodiversity policy and writing low carbon reports, we’ve always recognised the need for a sustainable future. However, with more than five million UK homes without cavity walls, almost five million built before 1919 and around 18 million built without insulation, the retrofit housing challenge is colossal.

Aico, the market leader in domestic Fire and Carbon Monoxide protection, has launched the SmartLINK Gateway, the Ei1000G.

This is a first in asset management and compliance, providing full visibility and remote whole system monitoring of Aico Fire and Carbon Monoxide alarm systems.

Stemming from their ethos of innovation, Aico has launched the SmartLINK Gateway to provide a groundbreaking solution for Registered Social Landlords (RSLs) to have access to real time data insight into the status of the Smoke, Heat and Carbon Monoxide (CO) alarm systems across their entire housing stock. Using its built-in GSM data connection, the Ei1000G utilises Aico’s next generation of

The development of the Aico SmartLINK Gateway has been greatly influenced by RSLs and their teams, through extensive feedback and rigorous trials that have significantly shaped the final product; Aico designed this alarm management system to assure tenant safety at any time.

As the pinnacle of Aico’s technology, this pioneering product facilitates the safety of tenants at all times and aids with compliance across housing stock, ensuring ease of monitoring for RSLs and clear, actionable intelligence.

The Ei1000G SmartLINK Gateway aims to improve efficiency, reduce costs, aid with forecasting and compliance and enable smart asset management.

The SmartLINK Gateway will revolutionise the way in which alarm systems are managed, paving the way to a solution-focused approach to asset management.

Richard Beresford, chief executive of the NFB, said: “The UK has some of the least energy efficient housing in Europe and that must change. With new homes saving on average £555 a year on energy bills and using two thirds less energy, it’s clear we need a revolutionary and sustained retrofitting programme.

“Following on from our low carbon construction report and as the installation supply chain, we are opening ourselves up to the wider industry to come together and highlight all the solutions and barriers to a retrofitting revolution.”

Rico Wojtulewicz, head of housing at the HBA, said: “There are many things we should be looking at that wouldn’t require public funding, such as simplified planning processes for retrofit projects, longer lasting permissions to allow homeowners time to save for upgrades, and cutting VAT on refurbishment. We could even allow homebuyers to claim back stamp duty on retrofitted works.

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

The UK requires a retrofitting revolution

RIBA publishes comprehensive new Plan of Work

The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has published the RIBA Plan of Work 2020 – the definitive guide for the design and construction of buildings.

For the first time, the RIBA Plan of Work includes a Sustainability Project Strategy which provides actions and tasks aligned with the RIBA Sustainable Outcomes Guide for each project stage.

These range from appointing a sustainability champion to carrying out Post Occupancy Evaluation.

The updated document responds to detailed feedback from the construction industry. New additions include a section comparing the Plan of Work to international equivalents and nine Project Strategies including Fire Safety and Inclusive Design.

RIBA President, Professor Alan M Jones, said: “The RIBA Plan of Work continues to be an extremely relevant and highly effective tool for the construction industry. This new version reflects the huge environmental and societal challenges we face – as a planet and an industry.

Abloy UK strengthens CI team

Abloy UK is continuing to expand its team of experts within its Critical Infrastructure (CI) division.

The appointments include positions for Phil Rice, Rick Menlove and Simon Jeff as CNI Market Development Managers in transport, energy and the water sector, respectively.

All three individuals join Abloy as it undergoes an exciting digital transformation, providing new compliant and effective solutions to its customers.

Steve Wintle, Head of CNI at Abloy UK added: “Phil, Rick and Simon’s appointments strengthens our commitment to expanding our expertise across the UK’s Critical infrastructure sectors and continue to grow our market-leading position as the first choice for high-security solutions in all CI sectors.

“We welcome them to the team and look forward to utilising their trusted expertise to better serve our clients within the transport, energy and water industries.”

“As chartered architects, we have a responsibility to ensure the delivery of high-quality, safe and sustainable environments; and the RIBA Plan of Work 2020 is our essential, definitive guide for doing so.”

The RIBA Plan of Work 2020 and RIBA Sustainable Outcomes Guide have been developed to support the RIBA 2030 Climate Challenge, an initiative to encourage RIBA Chartered Practices to achieve net zero whole life carbon for all new and retrofitted buildings by 2030.

Quiet Mark launches Acoustics Academy

Quiet Mark, the international champion award for quiet high-performance technology and solutions to unwanted noise, today announced the launch of Acoustics Academy. This world first online platform has been developed to showcase expertly verified acoustic solutions for architects, designers, contractors, builddevelopers, specification-buyers and the wider building sector.

Acoustics Academy presents Quiet Mark approved solutions to unwanted noise to further equip and empower the building sector for every scenario. This includes science-made simple commentary, installation insights for building sector materials and Quiet Mark approved products in consumer and commercial technology sectors.

It is also positioned to further educate industry on the complex technical details of acoustic design solutions, making them more easily accessible, better understood and higher priority, while encouraging design responsibility for health and well-being.

The renewable heating alternative

Serious about sustainability

The Ultra Quiet Ecodan range of air source heat pumps from Mitsubishi Electric are some of the most advanced heating systems available. Designed specifically for UK conditions, Ecodan provides renewable, low carbon alternatives to traditional fossil fuel-burning heating systems. With an A++ ErP Rating label across the range, you can heat your home for less while cutting your CO 2 emissions.

HOWELLS INTRODUCES DEVELOPMENTS FOR ULTRALINE

Howells Patent Glazing is pleased to introduce two new developments for its non-intrusive, low-pitch aluminium roof light, Ultraline, including a vented option and a minimalist steel rafter alternative for smaller roofs.

Ultraline provides architects, designers, builders and contractors with the ability to maximise daylight with large expanses of glass, without compromise. The developments enhance Ultraline’s superior aesthetics and performance.

An option for roofs typically measuring up to 1500mm, a steel bar divider is used rather than Ultraline’s standard glass rafter. The insulated steel rafter is part of the frame and matches the width of the standard glass rafter (40mm) but unlike the glass option, it need only be 40mm deep to meet load requirements across any span. The steel rafter offers architects and designers an enhanced minimal look.

On most occasions, the Ultraline rooflight with insulated steel rafter can be delivered assembled as a completed frame. This is a benefit for both installers and the end-user as it reduces labour and costs.

To enable controlled, natural ventilation, Ultraline can now be supplied with an opening vent.

Synchronised motors lift the glass, with multiple motors required for large expanses. All of the motors are hidden from view. Multiple vents are dependent on the capacity of the motors. The vent is controlled using an open/close switch, as standard. Customers can upgrade to remote controls or a digital control panel with built-in external rain sensor and internal thermostat.

Ultraline has been independently tested for Weather tightness (BS 6375 Part 1) and Resistance to snow and permanent load (EN 14351). It is certified to PAS 24 and Approved Document Q (Security – Dwellings), offering peace of mind against low-level burglary.

The glass rafter roof light also meets the requirements of Secured by Design. Howells’ aluminium roof lights are thermally broken for superior thermal performance, Ultraline achieves an overall U-value of just 1.4 W/m2K when using a 28mm double glazed unit with a centre pane value of 1.0 W/m2K. Triple glazed options also available.

For added impact, Ultraline can be powder coated in a standard RAL colour, including dual colours (one colour inside, another out. Typically, Howells offers High Gloss Black and RAL 7016M Anthracite Grey externally and RAL 9910S Hipca White internally, as standard.

Howells offers several glazing options with clear toughened glass as standard. Customers can upgrade to solar-controlled, high performance or super neutral glass. For certain applications such as swimming pools, schools and hospitals, the company offers a toughened laminated glass.

All roof lights are designed and made to order, manufactured using Howells’ bespoke rooflight system in the company’s ISO 9001:2015 certified facility.

Howells Patent Glazing

Taking a leaf out of nature’s book

Figurative knots and distinctive woodgrain configurations are both authentic and much loved wood characteristics, that are admired and sought after by specifiers everywhere. This desire for irregularity and a closer affinity with nature, has led leading interior timber door manufacturer, Vicaima to introduce the new Naturdor® Heritage Oak finish. With its open grain and randomly mixed real Oak veneer, it takes a leaf out of nature’s book.

As a leading exponent in the use of trend-setting designs and with over 60 years’ experience in the manufacture of real veneered products, Vicaima’s Heritage Oak doors present figured oak veneer that entices the senses of true rustic wood lovers. This new wood veneer treatment has been inspired by authentic influences of nature and reflects a more recent market trend towards wooden doors that embody materials made from more genuine and under refined materials.

Naturdor® Heritage Oak reflects the unexpected harmony of nature, with veneer mixed randomly in a choice of either vertical or horizontal designs. These can have either a matt or standard sheen surface depending on taste. Heritage Oak can be enhanced yet further by the potential collaboration of decorative face grooves, or the option of deep texturing. Introduced for 2020, Deep textured allows real veneer to take on a more rustic feel for an even greater tactile experience. Other combinations are afforded by a choice of available frame finishes, ranging from Naturdor® Oak and Stained Ash to Dekordor® foil or Lacdor paint, creating a unique style to the whole door assembly. This fusion between a rustic oak veneer appearance, optional face grooves and choice of frame finishes, allows Heritage Oak to blend in and accentuate modern living and working space for a multitude of applications.

Emphasizing its commitment to the planet and to the sustainable use of natural resources, Vicaima Heritage Oak is covered by FSC® certification. Where performance criteria are demanded, Heritage Oak is also available in fire, acoustic and security solutions. In addition to door only and door and frame assemblies, matching wardrobes and wall panels can also be provided.

Heritage Oak in situ

Heritage Oak in situ

Close up of Heritage Oak veneer

KAWNEER SYSTEMS SEAL THE PRIVATE RENTAL DEAL AT ERIE BASIN

Architectural glazing systems by leading UK manufacturer Kawneer were specified for their “robustness and quality” for two linked 16-storey apartment blocks on the last plot to be developed in one of Britain’s fastest-growing property hot spots.

Kawneer’s AA®100 curtain walling features as strip curtain wall to copper-coloured rainscreen areas of the £37 million BTR (Build To Rent) towers at Erie Basin in Salford Quays, Manchester, a stone’s throw from MediaCityUK.

In addition, the manufacturer’s AA®110 curtain walling features on link bridges and as floorto-ceiling screens facing the water. While the AA®100 system uses 50mm sightlines, the AA®110 system uses 65mm but both in this case were zone-drained. They are complemented by AA®541 open-out casement window inserts and AA®720 ultra thermallyefficient entrance doors.

The Kawneer systems were installed over eight months by a team of up to 35 from approved specialist sub-contractor FK Group for main contractor GRAHAM and client Glenbrook, the privately-owned property development and investment company, who acquired the site from the Peel Group. The prominent dockside development is GRAHAM’s second project with Glenbrook, with work also underway on another £27 million BTR project in Ellesmere Street, Castlefield, Manchester, which also features Kawneer systems.

At the 220,000ft2 Erie Basin development, which features one, two and three-bedroomed apartments with tenant lounge, gym, private elevated garden terrace and undercroft car parking, the Kawneer aluminium systems were specified by regular Kawneer users Sheppard Robson Architects.

A spokesperson said: “We specify Kawneer systems because they are robust, quality products. The curtain wall was integral to the visual impact of the picture-frame gable ends to the north and south elevations. The strip curtain wall glazing to east and west elevations alternates in plan at every third floor to tie in to the rhythm of the dynamic folded aluminium rainscreen façade”

“The Kawneer materials interfaced well with the other materials used on the project from a performance perspective (air tightness etc) and the client is very pleased.”

GRAHAM’s contract director on the project, Graeme Moffat, said: “Despite some demanding ground conditions, we have been able to help Glenbrook realise the Erie Basin project through an innovative foundation and concrete frame solution.

“This is our third BTR scheme in the Greater Manchester area and we see residential continuing as a key sector for us, building on our portfolio of experience with large-scale apartment, student accommodation and hotel projects across the UK.”

The project was forward-funded by Moorfield which has also backed two other Glenbrook projects in the North West.

Glenbrook projects director Stuart McCrone said: “We have brought an exceptional product to an already high-quality destination that is improving day by day. The performance of the project team has been exemplary and now complete, Erie Basin raises the bar for BTR accommodation in Salford Quays.”

Kawneer

MODULAR HOUSING PLAYS A KEY ROLE IN REDUCING UK CARBON FOOTPRINT

New building techniques, such as modular construction, could play a key role in reducing the carbon footprint of the UK’s development sector and improving its sustainability credentials.

As Modular Construction could potentially be a key driver in carbon footprint reduction in the UK Development Sector, Louise Hinley, Senior Planner, Planning, Development and Regeneration at Lambert Smith Hampton provides an insight on how the Modular Housing trend is bringing in sustainable benefits that the sector should look out for.

“Modular construction has several sustainability benefits,” she explained. “Streamlined design and efficient production reduce waste to landfill, for instance. By producing buildings in a factory setting, the quality of elements such as insulation can be better assured. It is easier to control energy use in a factory setting than in an open construction site.

“A further benefit is the opportunity for the UK to create factories to produce modular buildings. Producing buildings close to home will reduce carbon emissions that are often generated on large construction sites due to lorry traffic.

“While the UK has been slower to embrace the technique, publicity of existing schemes and the Government’s enthusiasm are accelerating its growth. Modular housing is seen as a potential solution to the UK’s affordable housing crisis, for example.”

Marley Alutec has designed and supplied bespoke balcony outlets for a £30 million London development on Lea Bridge Road, known as Motion, in Walthamstow.

Alutec was specified for its high quality, cost effective aluminium outlets which, due to design requirements, were adapted to enable the concealment of pipe fixings and accept square downpipes telescopically.

Designed by Pollard Thomas Edwards and built by Hill in partnership with London property developer Peabody, the flagship scheme comprises nine residential blocks of up to 18 storeys in height, offering 300 residential apartments – including 62 affordable properties.

The development implements around £33,000 of Alutec products across the nine blocks. It was M & E Consultant Michael Howard of Green Consultancy who specified Alutec for the job. Michael commented: “We were keen to specify metal outlets for this project due to their superior durability. The Alutec outlets proved to be a cost effective, high quality solution and Alutec’s assistance helped significantly onsite with design and logistics.”

It was the aesthetic of the building’s exterior which necessitated the creation of the bespoke outlets and the use of square downpipes. Joanna Malitzki, Architect at Pollard Thomas Edwards commented: “The building has profiled aluminium façade which steps back on upper levels. Due to the step back, we undertook quite a few studies looking into the best layout for the rainwater system.”

Marley Alutec

Marley Alutec

Protect BarriAir and VC Foil Ultra, the air and vapour control layers from Protect Membranes, have been specified and installed by design and build contractors Stewart & Shields in Scotland’s first multistorey Passivhaus building, providing social housing apartments for Shettleston Housing Association.

Used as part of a conversion project at Old Carntyne Church in Glasgow, the construction involved mixing traditional construction with new, with the church structure being restored alongside a new build extension which was built offsite. Renamed Cunningham House, the development has transformed the building into one of Scotland’s most energy-efficient affording housing developments and is the city’s largest Passivhaus development to date, winning the Best Affordable Housing Development (Urban) category at the 2019 Inside Housing Development Awards.

“Square downpipes were chosen to fit in with the angled aesthetic of the façade and concealed pipe fixings, one in the soffit void by means of a spigot and the other under the balcony decking, were used as an alternative to securing the downpipes to the façade itself.”

Joanna continued: “This solution has ensured that the integrity and aesthetic of the façade has been maintained.” Early collaboration on the project meant that Alutec was able to adapt its roof outlets to suit the needs of the project.

Evan Waters, Senior Contract Surveyor at Hill commented: “To create a solution, Alutec designed the welded square spigot and produced it offsite to the required length and profile. By adapting the products in the factory, Alutec saved us significant time on site when compared to a traditional on-site adaption.

“The result is very tidy with no visible fixings and the help we received from the Alutec team was excellent.

Working with Page Park Architects for the main project design and John Gilbert Architects for the Passivhaus element, Stewart & Shields delivered nineteen apartments. Fourteen of these were conventionally built flats within the existing church structure, with the remaining five units being constructed within the new build timber frame five-storey tower extension which was built to full Passivhaus Standard and is independently certified by the Passive House Institute.

Derek McIlreavy, Business Development and Design Manager at Stewart & Shields Ltd commented: “The specification of materials for this development was based on the need for a high-quality end result to meet strict Passivhaus criteria. We knew that Protect BarriAir and VC Foil Ultra would be up to the job in terms of airtightness to help us achieve the critical results needed to be independently certified.

“Alutec even created unique product codes for the outlets and inputted them on the schedule of works which all contributed towards a smooth installation.”

Hadley Group’s range of high-quality lightgauge galvanised steel structural framing systems and how its benefits can be felt in a variety of applications across the world of construction, including offsite and modular construction methods. Offering a lighter, faster and easier-to-erect alternative to concrete primary frames, the company’s pre-panelised standalone steel frame structures are ideal for medium rise buildings.

The manufacturer also boasts capabilities in the purlins and mezzanine flooring market, as well as its range of non-structural products, including fencing systems, industrial doors, PVC-u window reinforcement profiles, external cladding and cable management.

The company has a range of innovative patented processes and products, such as our UltraSTEEL process, which enables us to manufacture steel with a high strength to weight ratio. As pressure mounts on contractors and developers to keep up with increased demand for housing while remaining cost-effective, there is more need than ever for timesaving construction methods, materials and solutions.

With space for plumbing systems often at a premium in new developments, modular components can reduce the need for timeconsuming jointing work onsite, on top of the costs associated with large amounts of materials. These components can also afford contractors flexibility and adaptability in a multitude of different spaces and applications.

“We had to beat 0.6 ach-1 @50Pa for airtightness and our tests showed a result of 0.33 which overall gave an added value solution to our client that helps to future proof these homes going forward.”

In response to greater demand for this type of quick-to-install modular plumbing component, polymer specialist REHAU has launched the new Smart Link plumbing manifold.

Well-suited for uses in areas of limited space, such as within utility cupboards, its low cost and flexibility allows for quick, easy and effective plumbing system installation, saving contractors time and money when building new developments.

For example, when used in a point-to-point plumbing configuration, the Smart Link manifold allows for up to 70% fewer joints required compared with traditional branch plumbing.

By connecting radiators, taps and outlets to the supply using piping from a central manifold, this point-to-point plumbing delivers fewer potential leaks and much faster installation time thanks to the reduction in joints required in the system.

Hadley Group

REHAU

Protect Membranes

POLAR PROTECTION FROM HIGH PERFORMANCE MEMBRANES

The BAS Signy Cummins Hut is designed to provide a fully fabricated, fit for purpose hut, which can be easily erected to provide shortterm accommodation for two British Antarctic Survey operatives to carry out incredibly valuable research in extreme polar conditions.

Main Contractor, Mike Robinson of Rothwell Robinson, Manchester explained. “Due to the extreme conditions, we wanted to ensure that only the highest performing products were used on the project. In light of the extreme temperatures involved, we approached the A. Proctor Group who carried out a full condensation risk analysis.

“Following the risk analysis, the recommendations adopted included Roofshield® for the roof and Procheck® 500 as a VCL for the walls.

“Another key factor was that the chosen components needed to be lightweight to be carried from the shore to their final location on the island.”

Roofshield® is an air and vapour permeable, highly water-resistant roofing underlay that has been made to the same high specification for over 20 years. The products reliable performance has been demonstrated in the toughest locations around the world. Its characteristics allow even very complex pitched roofs to breathe, without the need for air gaps or secondary venting.

Procheck® 500 is a strong reinforced polyethylene vapour control layer, for use within roof and wall constructions to prevent warm, moist air escaping from inside the building and condensing within the insulation.

The woven extruded polypropylene multifilament scrim reinforcement provides exceptional tear resistance and robustness to withstand the toughest conditions.

Proctor Group

High-performance products from the A. Proctor Group, experts at solving condensation, airtightness and energy efficiency problems in buildings have been selected for use in the construction of a British Antarctic Survey building.

A.

LEADING THE WAY IN COMMERCIAL WINDOWS AND DOORS

For years aluminium was the specifier’s material of choice for commercial windows and doors. 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, aluminium has evolved to improve energy performance but the best commercial PVC-U windows can now match aluminium for looks, colour and sustainability. Each material has its limits and standard PVC-U is still largely unsuitable for very big windows and tall doors. This is where Linktrusion™, Deceuninck’s innovative, composite, fibreglass technology, is breaking new ground in commercial projects.

Linktrusion™ technology is the result of a €4 million investment and over two and a half years’ 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) Linktrusion™ technology is 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 is used in Deceuninck’s composite 5000 window system, incorporating 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.

Deceuninck’s Linktrusion™ technology has recently been used by Weston Homes on their Springfield Park development. The requirement for 2400h doors, slim sight lines and product performance was a major decision in selecting Deceuninck 5000 series doors and fully reversible windows. Developers love Linktrusion™, often choosing Deceuninck windows over aluminium – and by sight and touch it’s almost impossible to tell the difference.

The Hinkley Point Worker Accommodation development was one project where acoustic performance was critical. 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 and make a quieter, healthier environment.

The Woodward Building at Imperial College London is another example of Deceuninck’s strong ties with developer, contractor and fabricator. Despite the complex requirements for aesthetics, weather performance, acoustics and safety, Deceuninck and fabricator Dempsey Dyer successfully broke the original specification for aluminium, bringing a 30% saving for the client. The 2500 Tilt and Turn window impressed developer Berkeley Group with outstanding performance: Class 4 Air permeability; Class 8A Water tightness and Class A5 2000Pa exposure.

Deceuninck

Deceuninck Managing Director Rob McGlennon says developments of new composite technologies are changing perceptions and breaking new ground in commercial windows and doors.

RETROFITTING PERMEABLE PAVING

Continuing floods around the UK provide a timely reminder of the importance of permeable paving for SuDS. Although a requirement for most new developments, other – often forgotten – SuDS requirements also apply to paving around existing properties, as the trade association Interpave explains.

Concrete block permeable paving is a uniquely flexible SuDS (sustainable drainage systems) technique. It provides an inherent drainage system at low cost that requires no additional land take for water storage, treatment or conveyance, and offers the same visual richness as conventional block paving.

Freedom of Choice

There is a growing choice of concrete blocks and paving slabs available from Interpave manufacturers, designed specifically for permeable paving. Essentially, they have the same impressive performance as conventional precast concrete paving products, being slip resistant, durable, strong and sustainable. And today there are more shapes, styles, finishes and colours than ever to give real freedom of choice.

The difference with permeable paving is the enlarged joints, filled with a permeable aggregate, and the materials used below the blocks, which are specifically selected to accommodate water.

Concrete block permeable paving can be laid level and still avoids puddles without the need for drainage gulleys and pipes. It also provides a safe, firm surface for everyone, including wheelchair users and people pushing prams, unlike gravel and other loose materials.

Pollution Removal

Permeable paving is specifically designed for a dual role, acting as the drainage system as well as supporting people and vehicles. At the same time, many pollutants are substantially removed and treated within the paving layers before the water leaves it.

The importance of this was highlighted in a 2019 report by the Greater London Authority which pointed out that pollution from vehicles is being washed off impermeable surfaces into dedicated ‘surface water’ sewers (which do not flow to sewage treatment plants), then affecting watercourses and rivers. Of course, gulleys and piped drainage do not remove pollution or attenuate water flows.

Issues such as this have already been recognised by changes to planning ‘Permitted Development’ rules for new or replacement paving around existing homes and various non-domestic buildings. Permitted development rights have been taken away unless permeable paving or other permeable solutions within the property are used.

Otherwise planning permission is required for new, or replacement paving which is not SuDS compliant. With national and local planning policies encouraging or requiring SuDS, such applications should be rejected.

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For example, the Draft London Plan says that: ‘Development proposals for impermeable paving should be refused where appropriate, including on small surfaces such as front gardens and driveways’. This stance is supported by the 2019 National Planning Policy Framework.

Exemplary Paving

An award-winning, exemplary SuDS scheme, Bridget Joyce Square in White City, London, demonstrates the multifunctional benefits of retrofitting permeable paving in place of conventional surfaces – not only on adopted streets, as here, but also drives and parking areas. It introduces the innovative concept of concrete block permeable paving as a thin overlay on the original road base, replacing a lifeless tarmac road surface.

Here, rainwater is removed straight from the surface without gulleys, then attenuated and treated within the paving before being released Thus, rainfall runoff is treated and remains within the landscape a until storms have passed and the sewer can deal with water again. Project case studies, together with guidance on permeable paving and permitted development, can be downloaded from www.paving.org.uk

Interpave

PAC launches complete new Access Control portfolio

Key components of the new PAC portfolio are the PAC 512DC networkable access controllers, which replace the highly successful PAC 500 range. Future proof and certified to the latest industry standards, PAC 512 comprises two variants – the 512DC analogue and 512DCi digital access controllers.

Scalable from 1-2000 doors these controllers are able to support up to 75,000 unique identification devices via Access Central –PAC’s enhanced management software.

PAC has announced the comprehensive redesign of its portfolio in order to meet the rigorous demands of today’s residential, educational and commercial environments.

This pioneering access control system streamlines PAC’s offering with products that combine the benefits of state-of-the-art hardware and software – delivering unrivalled levels of security, sustainability and ease of use.

They feature two inputs and two outputs, as well as providing functionality including local anti-passback, event to action, mustering, lift call and alarm point control.

By removing the need for ancillary equipment PAC 512 offers a cost competitive solution that is easy to configure, install, maintain and use.

PAC has developed its new PS50 Energy Efficient Power Supply, with 80 per cent efficiency at most loads. PAC

Improve your drive-through width with a Garador sectional garage door

Garador’s sectional garage doors not only offer exceptional insulation, but they also give the homeowner full use of the opening space when entering the garage. This is one of the most overlooked benefits of Garador’s sectional garage doors. Garador’s sectional garage doors including the extra width doors incorporate spring lifting gear systems that do not protrude into the opening when the door is operated. As a result, you have full use of the drive-through width, especially important for garages with limited width or for homeowners with larger family cars. On top of that, Garador’s sectional garage doors lift vertically, meaning you can park right up to the garage door, perfect for short driveways.

Garador

Room in the roof trusses provide more living space

Intelligent washroom controls and water efficiency specialist Cistermiser has launched a new CPD learning module entitled: “Using the Internet of Things for Water Temperature Monitoring to Help Reduce Risk of Legionella”. Key considerations include the threat of Legionella and other water-borne bacteria, why understanding water temperature is vital to building management, defining design parameters for water system monitoring, how the Internet of Things can be utilised and the practical benefits of digital analytics. It is approved by the CPD Certification Service, RIBA and CIBSE and for more details contact info@ourworldiswater.co.uk or 0118 969 01611.

Cistermiser

Ancon offering

Room in the roof trussed rafters, or attic trusses, are a real benefit and a quick solution at the new build stage to provide extra rooms. Typically, the system will increase the available living space by 30 per cent without increasing the footprint. It is an efficient way to optimise land and its quick and easy erection offers cost savings on site as it removes the need for more complex, labour intensive work. Scotts of Thrapston works closely with clients offering a package from design to fabrication and delivery on-site.

Scotts of Thrapston

non-combustible balcony connector range

Ancon’s insulated balcony connectors have been re-engineered and now feature noncombustible mineral wool insulation and improved fire-rated thermal pads to maintain their impressive thermal insulation properties and provide the required A1/A2 reaction to fire rating. Connectors are available in a range of types, including Ancon Isotec for concrete to concrete applications, Ancon STS for anchoring

steel balconies to a structural steel frame, and Ancon STC for steel to concrete fixing.

Ancon

Cistermiser

CPD

explains the benefits of IoT remote monitoring

Ancon is leading the way in developing solutions to meet the Government’s tough new fire safety requirements for buildings, with the launch of an upgraded range of noncombustible insulated balcony connectors.

enhanced

BRITMET UPGRADES ROOF AT BLOCK OF FLATS

The original flat roof covering had failed and had been over-sheeted with a standing seam roof which had also reached its end of life, so a permanent solution was required.

Bromford Housing Association utilized Britmet’s “Project Assist” meaning all aspects of the initial stages of design were taken care of; from planning drawings and planning applications, fees and structural surveys progressing into full detailed designs for each individual block of flats – this was all taken care of.

Due to the presence of asbestos in the original flat roof, for the new pitched roof’s Britmet supplied a spanning base beam flat to pitch system to leave the existing roof undisturbed. Britmet Lightweight Roofing’s Pantile 2000 eave to ridge sheets were used as the main roof covering. This was in keeping with Cirencester’s nearby buildings within a conservation area.

Pantile 2000 is available from 1.53m to 8m in length so was manufactured to suit their rafter lengths meaning virtually no wastage, cutting or head lapping necessary – saving so much time. Furthermore, Pantile 2000 is made in a 0.9mm gauge, allowing for batten spacing to be extended to 1500mm centres and is then tek screwed with a colour matching sela-head fastener, to provide an anti-vandal

solution.

The mansard area was previously cladded with tired, old concrete tiles that offered no insulation and problematic box gutters. Britmet’s maintenance free solution involved a subtle change to the mansard design encasing the box gutter. We provided new insulation and our Plaintile product as external cladding for an attractive and economic finish.

Britmet’s Plaintile is quick to install as it’s only 5 tiles per m2 as opposed to traditional clay or concrete plain tiles that fit around 60 tiles per m2.

In addition, Britmet’s soffit, fascia and rainwater goods were also used and as a result we have greatly improved thermal performance of the properties, upgrading insulation to the roof and mansard areas, providing the client with a 40-year weather penetration guarantee for the full system. Ultimately this will greatly improve heating bills in the properties. Britmet Lightweight Roofing proudly worked in partnership with Novus property services as the main contractor and Art contracts as the roofing contractor on The Waterloo in Cirencester to deliver a fantastic project.

roof

Britmet Lightweight Roofing is proud to showcase our latest project with our Client, Bromford Housing Association, to provide a solution to upgrade the roof and mansard areas of 8 blocks of flats in The Waterloo, Cirencester. This was part of a huge investment scheme to improve energy ratings on the dwellings.

SPECIFY NON-COMBUSTIBLE DECKING SYSTEMS WITH ALIDECK

Part of the Milwood Group and launched as a standalone brand in 2019, AliDeck has made a big impact in the market in its first 12 months.

Drawing on 25 years of aluminium design and extrusion experience, AliDeck have codeveloped a non-combustible, quick-fit and easy-to-install aluminium decking system withu nique and patented features to improve slip-resistance, drainage, and durability while achieving excellent cost-effectiveness compared to traditional composite decking and other metal solutions.

AliDeck has formed close relationships with developers and architects across the country as their AliDeck System has been increasingly specified for new-build and retrofit projects. Working within a renewed atmosphere of scrutiny following the Grenfell tragedy, AliDeck’s partners have relied on their expertise to ensure that all specified decking elements exceed safety standards as they build the nation’s homes.

Richard Izzard, Managing Director of AliDeck, said “Following new legislation in 2018 that, for the first time, classified balconies as part of the external wall of a building it became imperative to ensure that there were products on the market that met and exceeded fire safety standards whilst also providing a highquality, desirable aesthetic finish.”

“As part of the Milwood Group, we were able to use our deep knowledge and experience of aluminium extrusion and fabrication to develop and design a cohesive decking system that satisfied these demands and delivered peace-of-mind to our partners in industry.”

With the AliDeck range of products independently tested to EN 13823, EN 13501 and EN ISO 1716, all elements of the Ali-Deck system when coated achieve Euroclass Classification of A2-s1, d0 and A2fl-s1, exceeding legal requirements and ensuring compliance for new build and renewal projects.

Beyond these crucial safety aspects, AliDeck has received very positive feedback from contractors regarding the unique installation aspects of the System. Most impactful has been the increased spanning abilities of the AliDeck boards, saving up to 50% on installation time due to reduced framework fixing and thereby reducing contractor overheads.

Additionally, with fixings made directly through the AliDeck products rather than by using brackets, installation is quick, easy, and very stable.

“We drew on all that we’ve learned over our decades of manufacturing aluminium outdoor furniture and structures to devise a Decking System that helps contractors and developers deliver perfect results for their projects, on time and on budget,” continued Richard Izzard.

“By considering all aspects of how our AliDeck products will be used, through installation and beyond, we have created the premiere decking product in terms of safety, function, stability, durability, and aesthetics. We’re very proud of our System and are humbled by the great response it has received in the market.”

With a selection of the AliDeck range now on RIBA Product Selector it is quick and easy to integrate this excellent decking solution into your specification. AliDeck are a company to watch through 2020 as they continue to grow their presence in the market.

To find out more about the AliDeck system, visit www.alideck.co.uk

AliDeck

Image captions:

1: Demonstration of the AliDeck System’s compliant replacement of traditional timber joists and decks.

2: Detail of unique AliDeck drainage system, including a drainage channel between each board discharging to a gutter profile.

3: Detail of AliDeck Junior Flat Board.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT DOOR CLOSER

The right door closer will not only meet relevant fire and accessibility requirements, but also assure continued reliability of the fire door, tenant safety and well-being, as well as help to control whole life costs.

Samuel Heath’s Powermatic, jamb-mounted, concealed door closer delivers in all these areas, meeting the necessary performance standards and delivering a host of additional benefits thanks to its total concealment when the door is closed.

Where overhead, surface-mounted door closers have arms and boxes on show, Powermatic door closers are totally concealed, making them less likely to be damaged, either through a deliberate act, lack of care, misuse or tampering. This means enhanced reliability of the fire door and less chance of the door closer and fire door needing repair or replacement in the future.

Powermatic also rises above other concealed devices, being the only Certifire jamb-mounted door closer, contributing towards a door’s ability to meet accessibility requirements and facilitating adjustment without removal from the door.

Powermatic door closers also comes with a 10-year warranty and, of course, there is also the comfort of knowing that they are manufactured in the UK by Samuel Heath, which, with more than 50 years’ experience, is probably the foremost authority when it comes to concealed door closers.

Gilberts rise to smoke evacuation challenges

The “best yet” is how Gilberts Blackpool is describing its latest range of smoke evacuation dampers for multi-storey buildings – the new Series 60 smoke evacuation damper range.

Believed to be the only vent of its kind designed and manufactured in the UK, Series 60 offers what Gilberts claims will the biggest standard range of EN12101-8 compliant firetested dampers.

The initial launch provides seven sizes, from 440mm x 440mm up to 1000mm x 1125mm, and all CE marked to EN12101-8; further sizes in just 1mm increments will follow.

Yale understands that keeping up to date on the latest security standards can often be confusing. From fire door compliance to meeting PAS 24:2016, there are a number of factors to be considered. Since its launch in 2018, Yale’s Postmaster Professional TS008 letterplate has made significant developments boasting a long list of features that set it apart from other letterplates in the market, most notably fire testing. These include FD60 specification tests, approval by Secured by Design, the TS008 technical specification and the Building Regulation’s Approved Document Q to protect against various attack methods. Yale

Series 60 combines a low leakage rate and high free area when open to deliver high smoke evacuation rates. Activation (by powered motor) is triggered to open the damper on the fire floor for smoke evacuation, whilst all other dampers failsafe close to protect the rest of the building. The damper has been tested and will provide 120 minutes’ fire integrity.

Manufactured from galvanised steel with intumescent material and gaskets within, Series 60 has passed all relevant smoke and fire tests (EN12101-8 and EN1366-10), retaining its integrity and performance when incorporated into evacuation shafts and risers. Gilberts

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Yale’s Postmaster Professional TS008 letterplate ticks all the boxes

Samuel Heath

COPPER COMBINATIONS

Copper producer Aurubis discusses how copper surfaces and alloys available for cladding and roofing today can be used in combination, or in conjunction with other materials to add real quality and kerb appeal to any type of housing.

The growth in popularity of copper in architecture has been significant and it is often used extensively throughout facades and roofs as the predominant material, effectively defining the architecture of high-quality buildings of all types.

But it can also be applied more sparingly in housing projects to complement other, perhaps lower-cost, materials adding a sense of high quality, tenure-blind permanence. It can be used as a design highlight, perhaps defining entrances and vertical circulation areas. And the material will continue to develop its natural appearance over many years, adding distinctive character to developments.

Non-combustible

Nordic Copper is an extensive range of architectural copper surfaces and alloys with an unrivalled lifespan, no maintenance requirement and full recyclability. With a melting point of 1083˚C and ‘A1 (non-combustible material)’ fire classification to EN 13501-1, copper is suitable for cladding tall buildings, using appropriate constructions. Low thermal movement makes it appropriate for any climates and locations – and it is non-toxic and safe to handle, as well as nonbrittle and safe to work. Its inherent antimicrobial qualities make it ideal for touch surfaces internally as well.

Copper’s unique architectural qualities are defined by its natural patina, developing gradually in the environment – which cannot be replicated successfully using other materials with surface coatings.

Within a few days of exposure to the atmosphere, the surface begins to oxidise, changing its colour from the ‘bright’ mill finish to a chestnut brown, which gradually darkens over several years to a chocolate brown. Continued weathering can eventually result in the distinctive green or blue patina seen on historic roofs.

Nordic Copper

But the Nordic Copper range provides all these surfaces straightaway. The processes involved are generally similar to those taking place over time in the environment, utilising copper mineral compounds – not alien chemical processes. All these surfaces form an integral part of the copper, generally continuing to change over time, and are not lifeless coatings or paint.

The architectural range includes Nordic Standard ‘mill finish’ and Nordic Brown pre-oxidised copper, offering lighter or darker shades of brown determined by the thickness of the oxide layer.

The extensive Nordic Blue, Nordic Green and Nordic Turquoise ranges have been developed with properties and colours based on the same brochantite mineralogy found in natural patinas all over the world. As well as the solid patina colours, ‘Living’ surfaces are available for each with other intensities of patina flecks revealing some of the dark oxidised background material.

Largest Copper Recycler

Copper alloys include Nordic Bronze and Nordic Brass, which can also be supplied preweathered. The innovative Nordic Royal is an alloy of copper with aluminium and zinc, retaining its golden colour and simply losing some of its sheen over time with exposure to the atmosphere to give a matt finish.

Aurubis is part of the world’s leading integrated copper group and largest copper recycler. For more information visit: www.nordiccopper.com or email: g.bell@aurubis.com

Aurubis

FASSACOUCHE IS THE GO-TO RENDER FOR RENDERERS

Its simple application process and decorative appeal means Fassacouche from Fassa Bortolo ticks all the boxes for a reliable, versatile render system. Ideal for helping to protect substrates against weathering and providing a practical yet stylish render solution, it’s no wonder Fassacouche is one of the company’s best-selling lines in the UK.

BBA certified to withstand severe weather conditions, Fassacouche guarantees excellent vapour absorption, making it the ultimate choice for exterior render solutions up and down the country, particularly those where wind driven rain is a problem. Suitable for use over medium dense concrete blockwork, this render can be applied by hand or by machine for speed.

With 24 different colour options available, specialist pigments create long-lasting through-colours that reduce fading. Top coats and paints are also available to offer even more colour flexibility, with 365 colours as standard

and bespoke colour matching available in select premium distribution centres. The surface can then be finished with scratch, floated, sponge floated or smooth effects thanks to its superior yield and workability.

Fassacouche is available to order and can be delivered within 24 hours. To enquire about Fassacouche for your next project, email info.uk@fassabortolo.com or call 01684 218 305.

One coat is recommended for use on a sound, uniform substrate.

Fassa Bortolo

SEE THE WHOLE PICTURE WITH LAUNCH OF NEW VELUX STUDIO WINDOW

VELUX® has launched its new STUDIO window, which is the first roof window to boast three sashes in one frame.

By utilising a solar conversion kit, VELUX STUDIO can be remotely operated via VELUX INTEGRA® technology, offering greater flexibility to homeowners who want better control of their indoor environment.

The VELUX STUDIO window offers a number of unique benefits to the trade, including: it’s easy to order as only one product code and one flashing package are required to order; the innovative one-frame module follows a standard installation process so you can save time and get the job done in one day; and having three glazing units in one integrated solution makes installing multiple windows a whole lot easier.

“In comparison to a similar triple combination VELUX roof window installation, VELUX STUDIO’s all-in-one mechanism provides a more cost effective solution and brings in 23% more daylight.”

VELUX STUDIO is currently available in size FK06 (1837 x 1178mm), white painted finish, double and triple glazed variants with slate or tile flashing kits that include all installation products (usually sold separately).

Velux

The innovative, one-frame design features two VELUX centre-pivot roof windows on either side of a fixed unit to bring in even more daylight and offer a wider, more impressive view.

Grant Sneddon, product manager for VELUX, said: “We are constantly looking for new ways to innovate our offering to installers, merchants and homeowners so we can continue to be market leaders in providing roof window solutions that offer the best in daylight and ventilation capabilities and create healthier home environments. VELUX STUDIO does exactly that.

Fassa Bortolo is a historic name in the world of building. Attention to quality raw materials, research, innovation and the environment have always been at the basis of the company’s vision, expressed through the continuous development of state-of-the-art solutions for the evolution of building.

TECHNICAL UPDATE ON EWI

External Wall Insulation (EWI) is used to augment the thermal insulation performance of existing external walls by improving their thermal resistance value.

An EWI ‘system’ comprises an insulation layer fixed to the outside of the wall and covered with a protective and decorative render, brick effect or cladding finish.

“Benefits of EWI include improved protection of external walls against rain penetration to the inside, reduced heat loss, reduced CO2 emissions and lower heating/energy bills, reduced draughts through walls and around window frames, improved sound resistance and an enhanced appearance (i.e greater “kerb appeal”),” he said.

“Warmer walls reduce the risk of condensation on internal wall surfaces and help with damp problems; and increase a property’s energy efficiency (EPC) rating.

“The project specific choice of EWI is determined by the existing wall type. For example, solid stone walls may be breathable and allow moisture to penetrate a little and be evaporated away. Using a breathable MW insulation with a breathable non-acrylic external render or other finish will allow the wall to maintain its breathability.

“Solid brick walls may be impermeable to moisture penetration and non-breathable. Any rigid foam insulation will suit such a wall. Window trickle vents and extract fans in high humidity areas need to be installed to meet room space ventilation requirements. As with all property fabric related work, a high standard of installation is required.”

Building Products

New fire resistant vapour control layer

The A. Proctor Group has launched a new innovative high-performance fireresistant vapour control layer, which is air and vapour tight, thus improving the energy efficiency and reducing the risk of condensation within residential and commercial buildings. Procheck A2 is designed to protect the building fabric from the potential risks of condensation, whilst providing the added benefit of serving as an effective airtight barrier. The unique design consists of laminated glass fibre and foil protected by a clear lacquer. It is this clear surface, which provides Procheck A2 with the added benefit of a low emissivity surface.

A. Proctor Group

Freefoam announce 30 year anniversary

This is a significant year for Freefoam Building Products, with the company marking 30 years of trading. In 1990 founding Managing Director Tony Walsh set up an extrusion plant in Cork, Ireland, with one co-extrusion line.

Tony Walsh, now Chairman, remarked: “This is an incredible milestone for any company. Freefoam has achieved this success through a combination of factors.

“First and foremost the hard work, passion, and exemplary commitment by our team members whose cooperative spirit throughout the company is at the heart of our business. The development and continued improvements to our

product range and our innovation to create best in class building products that are guaranteed to provide value and longevity to homeowners has also proved to be a winning formula. We have dedicated ourselves to 30 years of product innovation, manufacturing and business process improvements and efficiencies to provide our customers with the highest quality building product solutions and services.

“Throughout 2020, we will be looking back at where we started, what we have achieved, and what our plans are for the future”. Today Freefoam Building Products employs over 300 team members across three locations.

Freefoam Building Products

Simon Lloyd, Technical Project Manager working for Kiwa Building Products on construction Product and Systems for 3rd party certification with regard to fitness for purpose, explains the benefits of EWI.

Kiwa

FRAMMENTI IS THE NEW TERRAZZOINSPIRED TILE COLLECTION BY CTD ARCHITECTURAL TILES

The latest collection to join CTD Architectural’s growing portfolio of terrazzo-effect tiles, Frammenti offers a truly contemporary twist on the traditional patterned design.

Reflecting its roots as a handmade product, the new range of wall and floor porcelain tile designs combines the appearance of fragments of earthenware, marble and glass in four distinctive colourways.

Specifiers, architects and interior designers can choose from the on-trend hues of terracotta, light white, calming blue or deep black in either a micro, macro or décor design to create statement wall and floor features within all styles of residential and commercial settings.

For a perfectly balanced scheme, a heavily glazed maiolica brick tile accompanies the terrazzo-inspired tiles beautifully in eight complementary shades of terracotta, pink, black, blue, white, grey, green and sky blue.

Setcrete creates sound base for heated flooring

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 commercial specification market. With clients in a variety of sectors including the leisure, retail, hospitality industries, CTD Architectural Tiles is committed to bringing customers the latest innovations in product and in service.

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.

CTD Architectural

PW Heating and Plumbing Engineers has been a loyal Wunda Group customer for 10 years and MD Patrick Whitehouse says he won’t go anywhere else for underfloor heating. “Over the years, we’ve installed underfloor heating in new builds and renovations and we’ve used Wundatherm as it’s simple to fit,” he says. “I’ve found that it’s really popular as it’s ideal for people looking to take their radiators out without too much disruption. There are always reservations with underfloor heating as people are concerned about mess, cost and digging up floors, but you don’t need to worry about that with Wundatherm.”

Wundatherm

Setcrete Exterior floor levelling compound and Setcrete Rapid Set DPM have been used in a residential refurbishment project in Stafford to create a smooth, sound and dry subfloor base prior to the installation of a ‘floating’ underfloor heating system and engineered timber flooring. Setcrete Rapid Set DPM provides an effective barrier to both residual construction moisture and rising damp in a single coat application, protecting both flooring adhesives and floor coverings from moisture damage. Setcrete Exterior is an advanced, water-mix floor levelling compound used to smooth and level rough, worn or mechanically-damaged concrete or sand/cement screeds.

Setcrete

Norbord has developed produced an educational video on the continuous line production process of SterlingOSB Zero. Beginning with timber logs, the video depicts how this raw form eventually becomes the popular finished product being packed and dispatched from the warehouse. The video illustrates the processes which give SterlingOSB Zero its strength and consistency so that viewers can glean more of an understanding of the manufacturing of this popular product. The video demonstrates how a ring strander is used to shred wood chips into strands, giving SterlingOSB Zero its instantly recognisable appearance.

Norbord

Plumbing specialist takes the plunge with Wundatherm

Norbord’s animated about SterlingOSB Zero

Fundo RioLigno

The fully sealed 100% waterproof element is developed especially for installation in suspended timber floors. Thanks to its thickness of just 25 mm at the outer edges, it can be integrated flush with existing floorboards without time-consuming levelling measures. The result is an accessible walk-in-shower with elegant linear drainage and a peace of mind about the moisture-sensitive timber floor.

UNDERCOVER WORK - CASINGS FOR SOCIAL HOUSING

The range of pipe boxing and casing solutions for social housing from Encasement Ltd continues to be in high demand with the growth in fire sprinkler installation; central heating upgrades and distributed heating system refurbishment projects all using the company’s specialised products.

Martin Taylor, Encasement’s Managing Director, explained: “From our experience of working with contractors on countless social housing projects where pipework needs to be concealed, we know that pipe and fire sprinkler boxing can be fitted in less than half the time of site made alternatives.”

For housing associations, local authorities and their contractors, this time saving provides a number of benefits. It helps ensure that heating systems, boilers and fire safety upgrades can be completed within shorter timescales. This minimises disruption for tenants and can also have a positive impact on improving maintenance and tenant satisfaction KPI’s.

Potentially the most important advantage is that the time taken to complete the projects can be reduced without compromising the quality or integrity of the installation, which can also help reduce costs.

Pre-formed plywood casings have been the preferred solution for social housing RMI for decades and with over 30 years manufacturing experience in the sector, Encasement estimates that more than 100,000 kilometres of its pipe-boxing have already been installed in social housing sites throughout the UK.

The company’s fire sprinkler boxing, pipe boxing and boiler casings are constantly specified by HAs, LAs and their contractors to conceal interior pipework, while its ‘Arma’ range of tough, lightweight

aluminium casings are used to cover and protect exterior services, such as gas supply pipes, electrical cabling and distributed heating pipework.

In addition, the comprehensive fire sprinkler boxing range also includes the flame retardant Versa ‘FR’ boxing, which is manufactured from Euroclass B standard compliant board and is designed for use where flame retardant materials are specified.

As Encasement was one of the first manufacturers and suppliers of decorative casings to achieve the FSC ® Chain of Custody Certification from the Forestry Stewardship Council in 2010, an FSC ® certified option has been offered on its full range of pre-formed plywood casings to comply with customers’ sustainable procurement policies.

Also, all of the company’s plywood casings, which include the Riva; Versa 5 and Versa 8 ranges of pipe and fire sprinkler boxing products, together with its boiler pipe casing range, are pre-finished in white melamine which removes the need for on-site painting and helps save time and money on site.

“From day one, we set out to manufacture and supply the most comprehensive range of pipe boxing and casing products for the social housing sector and we now offer more than 200 different products, profiles and sizes within our standard range,” continued Martin Taylor.

He added: “Our Versa range of pre-formed pipe boxing has rapidly become a key solution for concealing retro-fitted fire sprinkler pipework in flats and communal areas, whilst the launch of our flame retardant Versa ‘FR’ boxing was a first for the market. Versa FR is also pre-finished in white, while our Arma aluminium casings can be specified and manufactured in any RAL colour.”

BREATHING LIFE INTO A HOME

By correctly ventilating a property we not only bring in fresh external air to breath but we also dilute and remove airborne pollutants and control excess humidity. A poorly ventilated room is not only uncomfortable but poor indoor air quality also has known links to many diseases.

Building Regulations Approved Document F, which details the means of ventilation in new and materially altered properties, sets the minimum continuous extraction requirement for domestic properties at 13l/s from the kitchen, 8l/s from each bathroom/ utility area and supply at the same rate.

To achieve this, continuous Mechanical Extract Ventilation (MEV) and Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) whole house ventilation systems are necessary in most cases.

An MEV system actively extracts air from ‘wet rooms’ via ducting to a central ventilation unit which further ducts to an exhaust point.

MVHR systems combine supply and extract ventilation in one system. They work on the principle of extracting and re-using waste heat from wet rooms using a heat exchanger; up to 95% of waste heat can be recovered by this mechanism. The filtered, pre-warmed air is then distributed around the home, effectively meeting part of the heating load in energy efficient dwellings.

All new homes can benefit from mechanical ventilation, but there are some aspects that it’s important to consider when specifying a system, based on the nature and location of the property.

Size

In smaller properties, your choice of unit, where it’s located and how/where you run the ducting is reduced. Most MEV/MVHR units are wall mounted within the heated envelope of the property; most commonly in a cupboard. The size of the unit therefore needs to be compact, especially when it comes to height; the Domus Ventilation HRXE MVHR, for example, is just 507mm in height. Where installation in a cupboard is not an option, then a ceiling void should be a consideration. Here the depth of the unit and weight are key factors.

Noise

Being kept awake by a noisy appliance or building service is exceptionally annoying. Mechanical ventilation systems aren’t silent but they can be very quiet. Opt for a system that generates less than 24dBA (typically whisper quiet) at a distance of more than one meter away from the air valve. Also, consider the use of an Anti-Vibration tray and duct sound attenuators to further reduce system noise.

Ducting

Poor ducting (and that relates to the product quality, the duct run design and installation) impacts the air flow, sound and overall effectiveness of a system. Ensure quality ducting is used that fits together to minimise air leakage and avoid sharp bends which negatively impact air flow.

Instead of traditional branch based ducting systems, you might want to consider using a Radial semi-rigid ducting system where each room vent is served by single or twin duct runs which connect directly to the central distribution system, evenly splitting the air from the MVHR unit.

Domus

GAIA UNDERFLOOR HEATING LAUNCHES DECOUPLING MEMBRANE AND HEATING CABLE SYSTEM TO THE PROJECTS MARKET

The new Gaia decoupling membrane is quick to install and two products in one.

Firstly, as a decoupling membrane guarding against movement in the sub floor which can cause tiles to crack and secondly as a heating cable carrier providing warmth to floors.

The polypropylene membrane has rounded square shaped studs that form channels specially designed to embed and fasten electric heating cables.

Coupled with the Gaia Heating Cable the system is ideal for small or large installations and awkward areas within a property where flexibility is required. Depending on the cable spacing the cable can provide a power output for either primary or secondary heat.

Available in 5m and 15m rolls, the Gaia Decoupling Membrane is a decoupling membrane of 5.5mm in thickness that does not require expansion joints in the screed before laying ceramic and natural stone tiles.

It’s also a waterproof membrane when the Gaia waterproofing tape and sealant is used. With the Gaia heating cables available from 10m lengths to 165m lengths, we can cover any project area size.

The system provides comfortable warm floors allowing the heat from the electric cable to be distributed evenly across the floor. It’s a polypropylene membrane with rounded square shaped studs that forms channels specially designed to embed and fasten the electric heating cables.

Typically used in areas where the floor covering is tile, the system can also be used with varying floor coverings such as carpet, vinyl and timber floors.

Full instructions, recommendations and technical information is provided with the product to ensure the correct installation and product care is taken.

Gaia offer the full service, from project start to project completion. We can supply the product for your contractor to install or alternatively our operation team can visit site to carry out the install.

Gaia Underfloor Heating is fully backed with a technical and design team to support you throughout the project.

Gaia

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RINNAI AND THE ART OF ZEN + ZEN PLUS

Rinnai, global leaders in continuous flow hot water heating products and systems, is introducing the Zen and Zen Plus home hot water & heating system which marries established and proven manufacture durability with new technologies to offer great energy efficiencies, user control and, importantly, unparalleled level of comfort.

“That time is now, and we are offering hot water heating units together with a superior performance combi boiler in 24, 29- and 35-kW outputs.”

The Wifi and boiler controller also uses GPS from the user’s mobile to bring on the heat when you are getting close to home to ensure the house is warm when you arrive.

The Rinnai Zen and Zen Plus system will increase comfort and reduce energy usage whilst also providing a highly economically solution for today’s changing marketplace.

“We have been researching and monitoring the UK domestic heating market for several years until we had a proven system,” said Chris Goggin, head of Rinnai UK operations.

Some of the features of Zen & Zen Plus are: IOT controller as standard; Fast heating mode; DHW pre-heat function - saving wasted water; Energy monitor function allows user to monitor energy usage; flue runs up to 30 meters, Rinnai boiler App for android and IOS; constant temperatureaccurate hot water delivery at continuous flow rates.

There is also smart Wifi controller and App benefits; The Rinnai app seamlessly connects to the controller in the property; the user can control the boiler remotely adjusting temperature, setting weekly and daily programmes, receiving alarm functions, monitor energy usage and set limits.

Rinnai Zen & Zen Plus are available for use with both natural gas and LPG.

Rinnai

Residents benefit from Domus Ventilation MVHR

Domus Ventilation has had its HRXD Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) systems installed in to the prestigious Bow River Village development in East London. The Domus Ventilation MVHR units are a key eco-feature. They work on the principle of extracting moisture-laden air from wet rooms whilst capturing up to 87% of the heat, which would otherwise be wasted, and using it to temper the filtered air which is simultaneously distributed around the home. The Domus Ventilation HRXD is wall mounted using advanced AMIE (Air Management for Indoor Environments) technology including features such as digital humidity control.

Domus Ventilation

Titon vents help enhance patient wellbeing

A total of 112 Maxiglaze glazed-in aluminium ventilators from Titon have been installed at the Prince and Princess of Wales Hospice in Bellahouston Park, Glasgow. Stephen Anderson, Aluminium Director at CMS Window Systems, said: “We chose Titon’s Maxiglaze vents based on our previous experience with the product. They have always performed to a high standard, plus they met the statutory Building Regulations and requirements for background ventilation specified for this project. Indeed, Titon is our preferred supplier of choice when it comes to glazed-in trickle vents in terms of quality, cost, service and their local representative.”

Titon

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EnviroVent is celebrating its CPD (Continuous Professional Development) course: Ventilation Strategies & Best Practice Compliance becoming CIBSE (Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers) accredited. EnviroVent’s CPD outlines the roadmap to Ventilation Compliance and considers the current environmental and political drivers in ensuring good indoor air quality through efficient ventilation. It is delivered by an EnviroVent ventilation specialist in the form of an hour-long seminar, which covers the key areas on the subject of ensuring adequate ventilation. To find out more call on 0345 27 27 810, email enquiries@envirovent.com or visit www.envirovent.com EnviroVent

EnviroVent gains CIBSE accreditation for ventilation CPD