Housing Specification March/April 2023

LEVATO MONOTM

Raised access Porcelain paver system

With a vast choice of finishes available for any Design scheme, including larger formats and co-ordinating internal tiling, Levato Mono porcelain paver system is perfect for balconies, roof terraces, garden decks and piazzas. Key benefits include; high slip resistance & load bearing, fade & wear resistance – so low cost ongoing maintenance. Both of our self-levelling support pedestals promote a fast cost-effective installation process for use on delicate waterproofing or covering tired slabs. The tilting head adjustment compensates slopes up to 5% even with multiple falls. If a Fire rated pedestal is specified then the FRSL range has Class A1 classification or the SL polypropylene type which have their own key features; secure height locking, non- slip acoustic dampening pads and large height range (28 to 550mm).

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WWW.SURFACE360.CO.UK

0118 391 4120 | INFO@SURFACE360.CO.UK

Welcome

The Construction Products Association’s latest State of Trade Survey for 2022 Q4 revealed a quarter of mixed fortunes for the construction product manufacturing industry.

Performance was split between a decline in sales for heavy-side producers and continued growth for manufacturers on the light side.

Furthermore, manufacturers expect these dynamics to persist in 2023, with new build starts affected by economic uncertainty but refurbishment and activity for energy-efficient retrofit continuing apace.

Rebecca Larkin, CPA Head of Construction Research said: “It was a mixed bag for construction product manufacturers at the end of last year, with demand in some areas of construction knocked by renewed economic uncertainty following the Truss government’s Mini Budget, as well as early signs that historically high inflation was stalling household spending and business investment decisions.

“This primarily affected heavy side manufacturers, who experienced a fall in sales for products that are typically used at the earlier stages of construction as demand and confidence weakened for new build project starts.

“Sales growth continued for light side manufacturers in Q4, however, and is likely to have been buoyed by areas of construction that are still experiencing strong activity, namely offices refurbishments and energy-efficient retrofit such as insulation measures.”

Overall, the Q4 survey highlights the varied demand by the construction sector and adds to the signs pointing to a slowdown in activity across new build or sectors that are driven by consumer or business confidence, which will be partially offset by high levels of activity on commercial refurbishment and energy efficiency improvements.

Paul Groves Group Editor paul.groves@tspmedia.co.uk

Howells Patent Glazing, experts since 1973 in manufacturing, supply and installation of unique roof glazing systems for the private, public and commercial sectors.

• Northlights, double and single pitch rooflights, patent glazing, canopies, vents & guttering

• Auto CAD drawings

• U values of 0.4w/m2 (under specialist conditions)

• Weather tightness tested to current British standards

• Quality assurance to ISO 9001:2015

• Members of council for aluminium in building

• Railway stations, shopping centres, schools, heritage buildings, industrial & commercial buildings, together with domestic applications, swimming pools and conservatories

• Prebuilt range rooflights, 14 day turnaround

01384 820060 www.howellsglazing.co.uk info@howellsglazing.co.uk

Howells Patent Glazing Ltd - Triton Works, Woods Lane, Cradley Heath, Warley, West Midlands B64 7AN

SprayCork. The Ultimate Building Coating.

Harnessing the power of natural cork, SprayCork wall & roof coatings are an innovative and eco-friendly solution for new build and retrofit buildings.

Cork is one of the world’s most sustainable natural resources with a negative carbon footprint. No trees are felled during its harvest - in fact the bark grows back each time, absorbing much more carbon dioxide than usual, making it a powerful ally against climate change. All elements of the cork is used, from wine stoppers, to building coatings and biomass - making it a zero waste industry.

It is a strong thermal insulator reducing the dependence on heating systems, which also helps eliminate condensation and black spot mould. It helps to improve acoustic comfort, whilst offering natural resistance to fire and high temperatures. Added to this, as it is hypoallegenic it helps to improve air quality against airbourne particles.

Applications:

> Mould reduction in social housing

> Safe encapsulation of asbestos

> Refurbishment of all types of buildings

> Fire protection up to 18m

New independent research by the University of Salford’s Energy House laboratory has demonstrated that blinds and shutters can help save energy and keep homes warmer in winter.

Data shows that blinds and shutters can have a significant, positive impact on energy savings, reducing heat loss through windows by up to 33 per cent.

Read more on page 12

Coalition calls on Government to take bolder action on building safety

RIBA and seven built environment bodies, fire safety organisations and disability rights groups have signed a joint letter to Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, Rt Hon Michael Gove MP.

The united call urges the Government to reduce the height threshold for more than one staircase in new residential buildings to 18 metres (approximately six storeys), from the government’s current proposed 30 metres (approximately ten storeys).

The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has written to the Rt Hon Michael Gove MP, Secretary of State at the Department for Levelling up, Housing and Communities. The letter, signed by eight organisations representing the built environment sector, fire safety and disability rights, urges him to reduce the proposed 30 metre height threshold for an additional staircase in new residential buildings. The coalition are calling on government to reduce the height threshold for

more than one staircase to 18 metres –implementing what we believe to be best practice, improving safety for occupants, and harmonising standards with the wider regulatory environment.

This would also align with rules in Scotland, where an additional staircase from 18 metres has been required for four years.

RIBA President Simon Allford said: “Five years have passed since the fire at Grenfell Tower, and still we must make the case and take bolder action to help prevent further avoidable tragedies. Decisive action to make buildings as safe as is reasonably possible is long overdue. We urge the Government to improve fire safety standards - and clarity on appropriate staircase design and provision is essential.

“We know that greater numbers of people are evacuating rather than ‘staying put’ during fire incidents post-Grenfell and we must ensure occupants have access to a safe, smoke-free evacuation route.

Major apartment scheme planned

Businessman and former Northumbria University student George Jenkins is spearheading an ambitious £25m residential development overlooking the Ouseburn, in Newcastle.

George Jenkins, MD of Modo Bloc, is planning to redevelop an old, brownfield site in the Ouseburn. He has submitted plans to Newcastle City Council to redevelop the almost one-acre site that comprises the existing Grieveson’s

commercial yard on Leighton Street and Byker Bank. The proposals seek full planning permission for the demolition of the existing buildings on site and redevelopment to build 84 one, two and three-bedroom apartments.

A range of smaller flexible business units designed to accommodate smallscale retail and commercial operators to complement the existing range of outlets in the area is also proposed.

“RIBA and our seven co-signatories urge the Government to adopt an 18 metre threshold for an additional staircase in all new residential buildings. RIBA has long called for clarity on staircase design, and standards that help ensure people are safe in their homes. The Government’s current proposal fails to address our shared concerns. We stand ready to support government action on addressing all our concerns.”

Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA)

• Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)

• Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB)

National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) Housing Learning and Improvement Network (Housing LIN)

• Disability Rights UK Inclusion London Claddag (Leaseholder Disability Action Group)

Sovereign to retrofit 1,000 homes

Sovereign Housing Association is delighted to announce that we have been awarded over £9m by the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF) towards our £22.5m improvement strategy helping 1,000 homes. This is the largest grant yet made to Sovereign to invest in existing homes and will help Sovereign on its journey to de-carbonising and retrofitting our 61,000-home portfolio and map a pathway to net zero by 2050. This SHDF Wave 2.1 funding round is part of the 2019 Conservative Manifesto commitment to a £3.8bn Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund over a 10-year period to improve the energy performance of social rented homes. The SHDF strategic objectives are to deliver warm, energy-efficient homes, reduce carbon emissions and fuel bills, tackle fuel poverty, and support green jobs.

The letter was signed by:

SOCIAL HOUSING CASINGS – UNDER COVER WITH PENDOCK

Pendock’s first pre-formed casings for concealing unsightly pipework and building services were launched in 1987, primarily for social housing to support ongoing heating system improvements, boiler upgrades and broader refurbishment programmes.

During the past 35 years, the company’s products have been used extensively in all types of social housing projects and the range has continued to expand to meet new requirements, whether it is concealing fire sprinkler pipework or using metal boxing to protect external pipework from damage.

Expanded product choice

From the outset, Pendock TK and MX boxing products were pre-finished with a durable white melamine, which removed the need for painting and saved even more time on site. and they are still manufactured this way.

The original concept of simplifying installation, saving time and reducing costs is carried through to the rest of the expanded Pendock Profiles family, which now includes six products that are grouped together under the Pendock Profiles brand and are primarily orientated towards social housing applications.

Covering all the angles

Both the MX and TK profiles have been available from day one and are still at the heart of the range. So, how do they differ?

Primarily, it’s their shape. TK incorporates a 115-degree angle on the shorter leg to create a sloping top surface, making it ideal for covering small bore heating system pipe work at skirting level, while MX has a 90-degree ‘L’ shaped profile and can be used on a range of applications.

The MX’s wide choice of sizes make it a highly versatile solution for boxing in horizontal and vertical pipework in residential applications, from heating and mains water to larger diameter drainage and waste pipework.

Manufactured from UKTR compliant plywood in 5mm or 8mm thicknesses, depending on the individual profile size, a range of dedicated accessories is available for both the MX and TK, which includes internal and external corners, as well as stop ends, butt joints and access panels.

Tough, weather resistant metal boxing

Bespoke manufactured to individual project specifications from 2mm aluminium, as standard, metal boxing is used widely for concealing external pipework used in low carbon district heating schemes, as well as air-source and ground-source heat pumps. One of its key uses is to protect pipework against accidental damage or vandalism where it could be within easy reach.

Fire sprinkler supply pipework mounted in open balconies or externally to flats are also covered using metal boxing to provide added security and weather resistance. Also, as metal boxing is non-combustible, it is used in high rise residential blocks to conceal interior runs of pipework where no sprinkler heads are present, such as communal areas.

Fire sprinkler boxing

Like Pendock’s MX product, MXF fire sprinkler boxing has a pre-formed & pre-finished ‘L’ shaped profile. Available in either 5mm or 8mm thicknesses, it can be easily cut to length and drilled on-site to accommodate standard or concealed sprinkler heads.

MXF is already widely used on a range of UK projects to conceal surface mounted sprinkler pipework in high-rise blocks, a range of dedicated accessories is also included to give a high quality, integrated and professional finish.

Completing the Pendock Profiles range are the BC boiler pipe casings, which are designed to conceal unattractive boiler pipework, valves, filters and flues. Access for gas safety checks, inspection or maintenance can be carried out easily, as their free-standing design allows them to be removed, reused and refitted without damage.

Pendock Profiles online

Details on the full Pendock Profiles family can be found on their website. In addition to the latest product information, downloadable drawings in PDF and DWG format are also available, alongside NBS specification clauses for every product.

Pendock - Enquiry 5

CITB to invest over £100m to train construction workers

More than £100million in grants is being invested by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) to help construction workers train and get the skills they need.

From 1 April 2023, CITB is doubling grant rates for short courses to help businesses offer more training and support employers delivering core skills training to their teams amid rising costs.

Grants up to £240 will be made available to support employers with their training needs, including leadership and management courses. Last year, CITB paid over £15m in grants for short courses to employers, with Mental Health and Asbestos awareness courses being the most popular. In addition, CITB is also increasing the grant rates for specific supervision and management

qualifications. This decision has been made to support individuals impacted by the Industry Accreditation card withdrawal. For Industry Accreditation card holders to continue to work onsite, completing a qualification might be needed and because of this, grants for supervision and management qualifications will be increased from £600 to £1,250 and £1,500 respectively.

The new rates follow last year's increases, where an additional £2,000 was made available for each dry lining apprentice, and rain screen cladding qualification grants were increased from £600 to £1,000.

CITB Chief Executive Tim Balcon said: “During this challenging time for the economy, the finances of businesses and workers are under pressure.

Cruden Group gains sustainability award

Housebuilder Cruden Homes, part of the Cruden Group, has become the second only housebuilder in the UK to achieve a NextGeneration Project Gold Award from the NextGeneration Initiative.

This award applies to the Design Stage of Cruden Homes’ latest development, Barnton Avenue West in Edinburgh, which is now recognised for exceeding mandatory sustainability standards across a range of environmental and social issues.

The Scottish housebuilder and Homes for Scotland Housebuilder of the Year 2022 received the highly coveted award from the NextGeneration Initiative, which has

been in existence since 2006, with an Executive Committee of Homes England, Lloyds Banking Group and UKGBC. The Barnton Avenue West development is a highly sought after age-exclusive new housing development, for those aged 55 years and over.

All 48 homes at this development incorporate several high-performance and green-energy measures. All homes are heated through a sustainable Ground Source Heat Pump solution. This is the first development of its type in Scotland and significantly reduces carbon dioxide emissions on the development, making it between 300% - 400% more efficient in terms of use of electricity.

“Our increased grant rates address rising costs and support employers to secure high quality training to upskill their workforce.

“This uplift in grants is our response to feedback from employers, who told us increased costs are making it more challenging to invest in the training they need.

“We know investing in training can bring competitive advantage helping businesses to retain and attract more workers and to ensure they have an upskilled workforce to win new work.

“We’ve listened to their concerns and responded by doubling our grant rates for short courses and increasing our grant rates for specific short qualifications.”

Pump industry wants clampdown on noncompliant systems

Pump industry leaders are calling on the government to clamp down on the ‘swarm’ of non-compliant central heating pumps being imported into the UK potentially costing consumers hundreds of pounds every year. The appeal is being driven by increasing concerns that Far Eastern exporters have penetrated the traditional merchant distribution channels to target the UK, with more than 100,000 noncompliant pumps being sold in the UK every year.

Steve Schofield, Chief Executive of the British Pump Manufacturers Association (BPMA) says the UK is being swarmed by non-compliant pumps. “We estimate that circa 10% of the one million central heating pumps, technically known as circulators, being brought into the UK are noncompliant. It is a swarm; it is blatant and it is now over-the-counter. Once fitted, they are costing consumers hundreds of pounds every year on their heating bills, and it is seriously impacting the UK’s ability to meet its net zero obligations.”

Make UK Modular releases first impact report

Launched in December 2021, Make UK Modular is the voice of the Britain’s modular housing manufacturers. Make UK Modular’s 30 for 30 mission is to enable the modular housing sector to deliver 30,000 modular homes a year by 2030.

Despite a political environment 2022 described by chair Dave Sheridan as “like no other … with 3 prime ministers, and 5 housing ministers in under 12 months”, the new trade body has made significant progress.

The report highlights meetings with more than 20 MPs and Lords and the body’s rapid progress to become the go-to consultee for Government on modular

housing. Make UK Modular’s first major report Greener, Better, Faster: Modular’s Role in Solving the Housing Crisis is highlighted as a substantial step forward for the sector in terms of evidencing the investment levels, benefits, and political barriers facing modular.

The report outlines how the body has engaged positively with the media to position itself as the voice of the sector including securing a BBC Breakfast feature with Ilke Homes. Membership has grown steadily throughout year 1 with M-AR Offsite the latest organisation to join.

Make UK Modular is determined not to rest on its laurels and has outlined plans to move to a more campaign focused

approach in 2023 focusing in on key sector issues such as net-zero, labour supply and skills, and delivering new housing.

Steve Cole, Director of Make UK Modular said: “2022 has been a year of huge progress. Make UK Modular has established itself as the strong, confident voice for the modular housing sector. I’m pleased to say we are making the voice of the modular housing sector heard across Government.

“In 2023 we will build on these robust foundations by increasing our influence, growing our membership, and ensuring that modular housing is a key part of government and opposition’s housing and industrial policy.”

New pitched roofs white paper supports specifiers Morgan Sindall delivers green homes

Marley has launched an in-depth white paper examining the critical factors associated with pitched roof design, installation, and ongoing liability. ‘Design Risk & Liability – Designing Out Risk in Pitched Roofs’ – provides specifiers with a comprehensive overview of the main considerations when designing and installing high-performing and safe pitched roof solutions.

The new white paper illustrates the primary areas of risk and liability that face specifiers and housebuilders, as

well as highlights the potential risks surrounding individual component selection versus the advantages of a full roof specification process.

The free to download white paper makes for essential reading for those involved in roofing specification, ensuring they can deliver the most effective design and installation processes. It also covers the basics of roof design, including the assessment of pitched roofs and the range of components required to deliver a best-practice installation.

Morgan Sindall Construction’s Southern Home Counties business has celebrated the delivery of the £11 million council housing development on Victoria Road, Portslade, for Brighton & Hove City Council (BHCC). On 13th March, the co-chairs of Brighton & Hove City Council’s Housing Committee visited the development to celebrate the completion of this much-needed housing scheme. Delivered under the New Homes and Neighbourhoods programme, it has seen the delivery of 42 one, two and three-bedroom council homes on the land adjacent to Portslade Town Hall.

Four of the properties within the development are wheelchair accessible and each property benefits from sustainable build elements, including solar panels and ground source heat pumps, in order to reduce carbon emissions and utility bills. To further the carbon reduction of the project, the team has worked in partnership with offsite construction specialist Sigmat, which has overseen the installation of a lightweight steel frame, instead of reinforced concrete.

BLINDS PROVEN TO REDUCE HEAT LOSS BY A THIRD

New independent research by the University of Salford’s Energy House Laboratory has demonstrated that blinds and shutters can help save energy and keep homes warmer in winter.

Commissioned and funded by the British Blind and Shutter Association (BBSA) as part of a research and collaboration partnership, the data shows that blinds and shutters can have a significant, positive impact on energy savings, reducing heat loss through windows by up to 33 per cent.

Five types of shading products were tested in the laboratory that is home to a full-scale early 20th century terraced house in an environmental chamber which replicates rain, wind and temperatures from -12°C to 30°C in controlled conditions.

All products were tested on an energy efficient double-glazed window and produced the following results:

• Roller blind fitted with zip side channels with low-e fabric: 33 per cent

Blockout honeycomb blind in a framed bead fit system: 32 per cent

• Internal plantation shutter: 28 per cent

• Roller blinds with fitted side channels: 22 per cent

Standard roller blind: 13 per cent

The purpose of the testing was to measure, under controlled conditions, the impact blinds and shutters have on the heat loss through a window’s glazing. The data is now being used to support the BBSA’s campaign Blinds Make Better

to demonstrate how shading helps keep indoor spaces warmer in the winter, cooler in the summer as well as providing other benefits including privacy and wellbeing.

Andrew Chalk, Director of Operations at the BBSA which, is a national trade association, said: “Rising energy costs have made energy effciency a top priority for households across the country and we wanted to provide consumers with some solid, statistically sound information about how blinds and shutters can help reduce heat loss through windows.

“The world-renowned University of Salford (UoS) Energy House laboratory is exceptional and we were delighted to commission and fund this vital piece of research.

“One of the most frequently asked questions is ‘how much blinds and shutters can help save money and energy?’ and this data can now be used as a universal reference point.”

David Farmer, Energy House Research Fellow at the University of Salford, said: “The work that the BBSA have undertaken at the University of Salford Energy House test facility will inform the design of energy efficient window coverings and assist energy conscious consumers.

“We wholeheartedly endorse the BBSA campaign to inform the public about the thermal benefits of window coverings and the impact that this relatively simple and low-cost measure can have in helping to reduce their energy bills and carbon emissions.”

Andrew Chalk added: “People need to think of blinds and shutters as a way of regulating temperature, a bit like a thermostat for your windows.

“In the winter, during the day when it is sunny, open blinds to benefit from the free solar energy from the sun and close them in the evening to provide extra insulation and reduce heat loss to save energy and money.”

PIPE BOXING, MAINTENANCE AND TENANT SATISFACTION.

The importance of maintaining quality standards and completing work within acceptable time frames have long been key considerations when planning social housing maintenance, heating efficiency improvements and safety upgrades, such as fire sprinkler systems. With the introduction of the new tenant satisfaction measures (TSM) in April, these criteria are likely to become even more important.

In most situations, site made casings are damaged or destroyed during their removal, as screw heads are usually filled and painted over, making them impossible or extremely time consuming to dismantle, re-assemble or re-construct.

With preformed pipe boxing solutions, it is usually a simple process of removing the securing screws and then the individual lengths of boxing can be removed and replaced quickly and easily.

For interior use, Encasement’s Riva; Versa 5 and Versa 8 pre-formed plywood pipe & fire sprinkler boxing, alongside its boiler pipe casings, have become the preferred solution for many HAs and LAs and are in widespread use in social housing projects across the UK.

Although concealing pipework for sprinklers, heating systems and utilities will form only part of the full scope of RMI activities provided by HA and LA's, the potential for minimising the impact on tenants, while maintaining satisfaction levels, can be aided using Encasement pre-formed pipe boxing and casings.

For social housing providers, large quantities of exposed pipework can present several challenges as part of the property management process, especially when dealing with older housing stock requiring upgrades such as retrofit fire sprinklers or fuel efficient low-carbon, heating system improvements.

There are often exposed interior pipes that need concealing to improve safety or aesthetics, while covering exterior pipework is also common practice, as it provides protection from accidental damage, as well as acting as a weather barrier and a deterrent to potential tampering or vandalism.

For fire sprinkler systems in new build properties, the pipework can readily be incorporated, as they can be hidden within risers and ceiling voids, but for retrofitted installations, this is rarely an option. In most cases, surface mounting of sprinkler pipework is the

only practical cost-effective solution. A similar situation exists for heating system refurbishment programmes.

The upgrading boilers to more fuel-efficient models, with their associated new radiator pipework, or the installation of low-carbon heating solutions, such as ground source heat pump and shared loop arrays, all involve the surface mounting of pipes. In many cases, other utilities, such as electrical cabling, will also need to be concealed.

A key advantage of surface mounted pipework is the simplicity and comparative speed with which it can be installed by skilled contractors, which helps keep costs under control. Clearly, choosing a method of concealment that is also quick and easy to install, makes sound economic and practical sense.

From direct experience of working with contractors on countless UK social housing projects, information acquired by Encasement has shown that its preformed pipe and fire sprinkler boxing can be fitted in less than half the time of traditional site made boxing methods. A further advantage of pre-formed casings becomes apparent when assessing ‘whole life’ costs, which can escalate significantly when routine maintenance visits are considered.

Where exterior services, need to be concealed, such as distributed heating and ground source loop array pipework, or electrical cabling and air source heat pump installations, Arma metal casings provide a highly effective solution. Bespoke manufactured to individual project specifications from 2mm thick aluminium, as standard, they provide tough and durable protection.

All Encasement plywood boxing is manufactured from UKTR compliant, sustainably sourced timber and is prefinished with a white decorative resin impregnated paper, as standard, which removes the need for painting, further helping save time and money on site.

Encasement - Enquiry 9

CLARE COLLEGE CAMBRIDGE REGENERATES ACCOMMODATION

Clearly of a confident, contemporary design, the buildings respect their surroundings, repairing and maintaining the rhythm of the street scene. In large part, this is due to the choice of bricks and the splitting of the facades into separate gables with slopping roofs. Vandersanden’s Majestic and Luna Apollo facing bricks were selected and contribute to the detailing of the facades.

“There is plenty of life and colour variation in the bricks,” explains Alexander Hobohm, director at Freeland Rees Roberts Architects. “This assists in breaking down the overall massing of the facades and works well with the dark zinc of the roofs.”

The bricks act to soften the appearance of the facades and link the context of the new and neighbouring buildings. The yellow grey Majestic brick predominates with the darker grey Luna Apollo providing detailing. It forms the plinth that anchors the buildings while a soldier course of Majestic bricks above provides the transition to the main body of the walls. At the junction with the zinc roof, the detailing is subtle with the transition provided by stepped courses of the Luna Apollo. Panels of projecting brick headers are a further feature, introduced to add a textural quality that brings light and shade to the facades.

In recent times, the need for regeneration became clear and Freeland Rees Roberts architects was appointed to design a new scheme.

The practice worked closely with Vandersanden, selecting brick as the principal element of the attractive new facades.

While the old buildings failed to fit into the surrounding urban context and lacked the facilities required, the new scheme provides more and improved student accommodation for the college together with market flats. To achieve this successfully in a residential area, it was vital to consider the massing and perceived scale of the buildings. Consequently, the volumes were broken down to feel more like a series of big houses than large residential blocks.

“The brick’s colour, tone and texture were qualities that other manufacturers couldn’t offer,” says Hobohm. “Usefully, Vandersanden invited us to see a number of projects using the same bricks which was so much more helpful than relying just on sample panels.”

Another contributory factor to the look is the choice of mortar. This was specified to create a natural, lime mortarlike appearance and was achieved by fully pointing and, after the initial set, brushing back; there are no struck joint lines.

A defining feature of the front facade is the public art. The college commissioned a carving featuring swifts in flight, inspired by the birds that were in residence in the original buildings.

Located on the edge of Cambridge’s de Freville conservation area, Clare College’s St Regis site has provided accommodation for postgraduate students of the University of Cambridge for over fifty years.

Vandersanden,

Swift boxes have been integrated into the new facades to provide a home for these beautiful birds.

Using hand tools and following trials, stonemasons carved some 5-10mm into the face of the brickwork to create the design. A breathable paint finish was applied to highlight the indentations - a single bird at the very top is gold-leafed.

For Hobohm, working with Vandersanden was a positive, supportive and proactive process. “It was very straightforward. Early on, Vandersanden supplied product and technical information, plus a batch of the two brick types, enabling us to create sample panels. The bricks helped deliver the project vision and the client is delighted. It’s now one of the college’s signature buildings and has already won several awards.”

Insulated brick slip specified

Two new apartment buildings in Kent have been given a thermally-efficient and visually-striking façade thanks to the use of an external wall insulation system from Sto

The two new blocks in Ashford - Stour Heights and Somerset Heights – have a single-skin construction, comprising a reinforced concrete frame with concrete block infill, and they benefit from the installation of StoTherm Mineral external wall insulation, with a StoCleyer B mineral brick slip and StoSilco render façade finish.

The BBA-certified StoTherm Mineral external wall insulation system uses mineral-fibre boards to provide outstanding thermal performance, combined with reliable fire protection and effective sound insulation. Its efficient single-leaf construction and external installation do not compromise the building’s interior space, and it can be installed without the need for additional expansion joints.

For the new buildings, it was installed using Sto’s unique Sto-Rotofix Plus mechanical fixing system. The helical Rotofix fixings create a cavity behind the insulation board, which can be easily adjusted after installation to ensure a level outer surface is created. This system combines the ease-of-use of ETICS anchors with the flexibility of a mechanical rail system, but without the material and labour cost of installing the rails.

StoCleyer B mineral brick slips are manufactured from synthetic render and provide an attractive, durable and weather-resistant finish, but with a realistic brick appearance. They have full BBA certification, and are available in either standard sizes and colours, or can be made to bespoke specifications, allowing architects to enjoy unlimited design freedom.

A StoSilco stippled render finish was also used on specific areas of the new buildings. This silicone resin render provides rugged protection and high levels of water repellence.

Always striving for excellence, leading Italian render manufacturer, Fassa Bortolo , can now announce that two of its Fassatherm Mechanical Plus (Steel Frame) cycles have received KIWA BDA certifications.

A trusted and established testing body within the UK construction arena, KIWA BDA recognition is a true reflection of quality for building envelope products.

This accolade gives specifiers, architects, contractors and installers added confidence that Fassa systems will perform to the highest standard, both at point of application and for many years to come.

The first of the certifications is for application of mineral wool insulation supported by a horizontal or vertical rail which is mechanically fit to the wall.

The insulation is covered with layers of basecoat and reinforcing mesh, before being finished with primer and silicone render.

The second incorporates the same steps, but with a brickslip finish which is fixed using adhesive and mortar pointing.

Brickslips are the latest innovation to be added to the Fassa portfolio and are designed to create a look which authentically replicates real brick.

The certifications apply to both new and existing buildings and commercial and residential projects, offering great versatility and potential to professionals looking for a reliable insulation render system.

ROOF REFURBISHMENT FOR BUSY SCHOOL IN A CONSERVATION AREA

Every roof has a limited life span, and every roof needs repairing eventually – but when the roof of a large and very busy school is beginning to fail, immediate action is needed to protect the heritage school building from potential damage.

After many years of wear and tear, the roof of Stockport School in Greater Manchester, was in dire need of a roof refurbishment, and had been identified as a priority by Stockport Council to upgrade. Due to the strong reputation of its SpecMaster specification service and the quality of its tiles, BMI Redland was chosen by Fulwood Roofing and Conlon Construction to supply the new roof system and solutions for a complete roof refurbishment.

The school building itself dates back to the early 20th century and is comprised of 24 individual roofs with many hips and valleys. Each roof was in urgent need of refurbishment to retain the lifespan of the building and ensure safety of students and staff for years to come. This made for a 4,000 square metre retiling, equating to roughly 240,000 Rosemary Clay Classic tiles.

The refurbishment was part of a 12-month contract starting from August of 2020. A major requirement for the successful completion of this project

was that BMI Redland needed to have sufficient tiles in stock from a product lead time perspective. But as would quickly become apparent, this was on the smaller side of the challenges that would present themselves.

Natural materials make a complex challenge more difficult

A complete Redland SpecMaster service was designed, which provides a 15-year whole roof guarantee, a bespoke design brief and specification, and therefore a roof that would truly fit the project. In doing so, the Redland Rosemary Clay Classic Tile in Russet Mix was identified as the most fitting solution for the project, both because the high-quality tile offers great durability and performance but also because the tile fit the aesthetic requirements for a school in a conservation area.

While Rosemary Clay Classic tiles come into their own for longevity and aesthetics, laying clay plain tiles requires higher skill than standard interlocking tiles. Clay tiles are heated at 1000°C in a kiln and then

left to cool, and because clay is a natural material, the shrinking process can result in a slight variation in size of the finished tiles (up to 5mm). While this natural variation creates much of the character and look of a traditional clay roof, on a roof of this size obviously a lot of small variances can add up.

Similarly, the wooden roof timbers underneath the roof’s surface had over 100 years to twist and distort, which meant that the already complex laying process was made more difficult. And the underlay system would need to be fitted in a specific manner and time frame so as to avoid any damage from UV degradation.

Additionally, the fact that the project was on an operating school made for more challenges too. Fulwood Roofing and Conlon Construction had to pay careful consideration to the day-to-day activities of the school, especially when students and staff were on-site, to ensure minimal disruption and maximum safety during the refurbishment.

Smart installation processes and highly skilled work triumphs all Fulwood Roofing implemented a smart process to ensure the tiles were laid straight.

They took a mean measurement of ten tiles and ensured that every set of ten tiles was in keeping with this measurement along a perpendicular line. This showed that the installers, one of which had never worked on clay plain tiles before, were highly skilled, smart, and capable of working on such a difficult task.

The roofers overcame the irregular surface of the roof by laying the underlay system in such a way that from the outside the roof appeared level, despite the internal structure telling a different story. Fulwood Roofing were able to prevent the UV degradation that the underlay was at risk of too. By working small sections at a time and then tiling over the underlay almost immediately. This was especially important as the installation ran over two summers, which is when the sun is its most potent.

To avoid disruption between roofers and students the contractors gave a schedule to the school detailing which of the school’s 24 roofs they were going to work on and when. The school could then meticulously manoeuvre students around the school and had certain areas closed off in accordance with the roofing schedule. COVID affected this aspect of the project too, however in a more unique fashion. Although the installers were undergoing stringent COVID tests, the restrictions actually made installation easier, as the students were not actually attending school for some of this time.

Providing a full solution

The refurbishment of Stockport School has restored not just a lively school, but a key building in the area. Fulwood Roofing were able to deliver a complete solution just two weeks after the date outlined in the initial contract. However, running slightly over was to be expected, as the school increased the scope of the project towards the end.

The recent roof refurbishment of Stockport School in Greater Manchester is a key example of expert craftsmanship to ensure that a school with a long and prestigious history can continue to serve its community for decades to come. The completion of all 24 roofs, whilst battling many external challenges, speaks to the potency of the custom Redland SpecMaster specification but also the importance of highly skilled and professional standards of work.

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LOW MAINS WATER PRESSURE?

Stuart Turner’s range of Mainsboost Water Performance Solutions offers the answer.

If the water supply to the property has a pressure of at least 2.0 bar but poor flow, the Mainsboost system will boost water performance throughout the property allowing larger combination boilers and unvented cylinders to work at their optimum. The specially designed Mainsboost vessels store water under mains pressure in a range of sizes and can provide flow rates of up to 80 ltrs/ min per vessel.

An appropriately specified Mainsboost system will provide a property with an unrestricted water supply delivered at pressure and ensures multiple taps and showers can operate simultaneously. Mainsboost also allows multiple vessels to be linked together to provide greater water storage, making them ideal for larger properties with high flow demands.

Mainsboost Charger Pump

Mains water supplies to properties within the UK can vary greatly due to several factors, such as where you are geographically or the condition of the supply pipework.

The time of day or the amount of water being used by your neighbours where properties share a single supply pipe can also influence the water pressure available.

Older properties typically employ gravity fed open vented plumbing systems, whilst newer properties usually utilise a ‘direct on mains’ plumbing system such as a combination boiler or pressurised hot water cylinder which whilst offering many benefits, can sometimes suffer from problems with inadequate incoming mains water pressure and flow, resulting in poor shower and appliance performance.

So what are the options?

An increasingly popular approach is the installation of Stuart Turner’s WRAS approved Mainsboost system which is simply connected directly in line with the rising main and solves the problem of low or intermittent mains water pressure and flow. The installation of a Mainsboost system allows homeowners to get back that ‘power shower’ feeling and run multiple water using appliances at the same time without a reduction in water pressure and flow.

Mainsboost Flomate

The solution for smaller properties where mains water supply is insufficient and available space is restricted.

The Mainsboost Flomate range features the compact and innovative Mainsboost Flomate pump designed to boost incoming water pressure by an additional 1.5 bar and featuring an integral regulator to ensure flow does not exceed the 12 ltr/min UK water regulation limit to how much water can be drawn from a domestic mains water supply.

However, if mains water pressure increases, Mainsboost Flomate features a patented bypass ensuring the resulting increase in water flow will bypass the pump and supply the property without restriction.

By combining the pump with a variety of sized pressure vessels, Mainsboost Flomate also offers the homeowner a buffer of cold water storage. These system combinations will deliver up to 30 ltr/min per minute at up to 3.2 bar pressure depending on the chosen variant and are all designed to fit neatly within any standard kitchen cupboard.

Mainsboost

Designed for larger properties with a greater number of occupants where the demand for simultaneous delivery of large volumes of water may be much higher.

Where water pressure is below 2.0 bar and not sufficient to deliver an acceptable performance from unvented cylinders, combination boilers and showers, Mainsboost Charger pumps offer the answer.

These systems combine the Mainsboost vessel with a high quality pump unit to provide up to 3.5 bar pressure throughout the property. Mainsboost Charger pumps are available which can be fixed to a Mainsboost vessel or wall mounted to best suit the space available. Mainsboost and Mainsboost Charger systems are also available in an horizontal orientation making them suitable for locations with restricted vertical space.

Mainsboost Site Survey

If assistance is required to specify an appropriately sized Mainsboost solution, help is at hand.

Simply complete our site survey form available at stuart-turner.co.uk/ mainsboost-survey and we will respond with a system specification configured to meet your pressure and flow boosting needs.

Available nationwide from your local stockist, the Mainsboost range is warrantied for up to 5 years and offers a fully assembled water boosting solution for any sized property.

Stuart Turner - Enquiry 11

EXPERIENCE. SYSTEM. VISION.

As a certified EcoProfit operation for over 15 years, wedi’s mission is to support the industry improve its carbon credentials and to help consumers recognise the added value of having a ‘green’ home with lower energy bills.

Manufactured with at least 25% recycled foam material and 100% renewable energy, wedi XPS products have their own Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) confirming their environmental footprint throughout their lifecycle and wedi Top design surfaces, made entirely of recycled materials, are fully recyclable at the end of their life making sustainable bathroom construction all the more easier.

Modern, sleek bathroom finishes are on trend, as is the demand for sustainable solutions – with its new products, in 2023 wedi addresses important industry needs by combining design and functionality for a ‘sustainable’ result.

The brand new floor-level shower element, the Fundo Ligno Plus offers unrivalled system security for evermoving, moisture-sensitive wooden substrates. Thanks to its low installation height of 23mm, it can be quickly and easily integrated into the suspended timber floor. Fitted with a support plate to reinforce the drain area on the

underside and account for the fall in gradient, it truly is the perfect solution for timber floor applications. What’s more, it is available to order with a perfectly matching seamless Fundo Top design surface in 5 colours!

Schedules are tight, and recently, staffing levels at constructions sites are low. The new Sanwell shower module is an ideal solution to this problem: cold and hot water pipes, fixing plates for shower outlets and the Hansgrohe iBox are factory integrated. For more information please refer to the righthand page.

2023 marks wedi’s further advancement into surface design providing clients with not only secure foundations but also durable and stylish bathroom finishes. The wedi Sanwell Top LED niche also convinces with its timesaving "Plug & Play" technology. Milling, fastening, bonding, sealing and other preliminary work are completely eliminated. Its factory integrated

IP67 rated LED light strip provides a pleasantly warm light, making storage in the bathroom a real highlight.

Inspired by the latest brassware trends, utilising PVD technology, the brand is taking its brushed stainless steel drain covers to the next level. Matched to common fittings of leading brassware manufacturers, the three new designsMetallic Black, Metallic Gold and Metallic Rose Gold – offer not only outstanding colour quality and brilliance, but also functional advantages such as enhanced wear resistance and protection from corrosion. They are versatile enough to harmonise with both traditional and modern bathroom styles.

A testament to how high design standards and durability can be combined, new product innovations from wedi hint at glamour and luxe, offering a timeless, cohesive look and longevity in bathroom design.

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wedi Systems (UK) Ltd

PHONE: 0161 864 2336

BROWSE: www.wedi.net

EMAIL: enquiries@wedi.co.uk

wedi Sanwell® shower wall module

with integrated, fully sealed Hansgrohe iBox & waterpipes

√ to suit over 200 thermostatic mixer designs

√ use as a fixed wall or as a free-standing partition

√ directly tileable, 100% waterproof and adjustable on site

√ in 900mm or 1200mm width and 80mm or 100mm thickness

√ individualisation options to meet customer specific needs (i.e. niche)

√ reinforcement plates for shower head attachments at selectable heights

GERFLOR SUPPLY 4000M 2 OF FLOORING FOR EUROPE’S LARGEST LISTED BUILDING

In completing the £21M Park Hill Flats restoration project on a Sheffield housing development Kier Construction and architects Whittam Cox specified 4000m2 of high-quality vinyl flooring from international flooring specialist Gerflor.

The project would provide a showcase for two of Gerflor’s signature flooring products -the Taralay Impression Compact heterogenous collection and their slip resistant Tarasafe Standard safety range. Both these innovations would prove to be the ideal solution for Beton House which is the third phase of the Park Hill Flats estate. Beton House has recently been nominated as a 2022 Regional Finalist in the Civic Trust Awards under the AABC Conservation Award Category.

Park Hill Flats is Europe’s largest listed building, located just outside Sheffield City centre. The phase three refurbishment covers 13,000m2 and follows phase one (completed in 2011).

The challenge was refurbishing phase three of the derelict Grade II-listed Park Hill Flats estate to 356 bedrooms of student accommodation while respecting the identity and integrity of the iconic building. Appointed as the first design practice in the Sheffield City Region, Whittam Cox have played a key role in the transformation of Park Hill, adding student accommodation to the mix of commercial and residential uses at the Grade II-listed landmark blocks.

Whittam Cox delivered the student bedrooms for occupation in the 2020/21 academic year, with the proposals being designed as eight bedrooms with shared living space in an innovative three-storey ‘townhouse’ model arranged within a unique format, including entrances from the ‘streets in the sky’.

Deciding on the flooring element of this huge refurbishment would be a crucial decision. In choosing both Taralay Impression Compact and Tarasafe Standard from Gerflor the rigorous specification standards set by both Whittam Cox and Kier Construction would easily be met.

Andy Gordon, Gerflor Area Sales Manager, Northeast commented, “We collaborated with the architects Whittam Cox in the first instance and wrote a specification which included three thousand square metres of our Taralay

Impression Compact flooring for the communal areas and one thousand square metres of our slip resistant Tarasafe Standard for the student bathroom areas.”

The Taralay Impression Compact range from Gerflor is the ideal solution for heavy traffic areas as it comes with a 0.70mm PVC wear layer and Group T wear rating. This vinyl flooring is safe and reliable with improved R10 slip resistance.

Treated with Protecsol® 2 surface treatment to ensure no polish is needed for the entire lifetime of the product. The Taralay Impression Compact collection also delivers a range of eye-catching innovative designs in a wide array of stunning colour choices. It’s the perfect flooring choice for specifiers and designers who are seeking safety and durability, together with having the ability to access a range of sophisticated modern designs.

Tarasafe is a range of slip resistant sheet fooring that meets HSE guidelines. It is constructed from vinyl with deeply inlaid mineral crystal particles (patent pending) and coloured chips for a decorative design. Contains no Carborundum. Tarasafe Standard PUR is reinforced with a glass fibre grid and is suitable for use in all areas of heavy traffic where slip-resistance, durability and hygienic conditions are required. The Tarasafe

Standard range comes with a unique UV cured PUR surface treatment which maximises its hygiene properties. This product also comes with a 12-year warranty and is 100% recyclable, when the product is at the end of its’ life.

On specification and colours Andy Gordon added, “The colours specified by the architects were greys throughout helping to create a muted tone within the building. The aim was to develop a seamless look which would be easy on the eye, yet still providing a real sense of style, together with providing the all-important safety and durability aspects required.”

Andy Gordon further commented, “The Park Hill Flats project was completed over three phases in what is the largest listed building in Europe. The sheer volume of flooring throughout Park Hill Flats makes the project quite unique.”

Andy Gordon concluded, “The client is absolutely delighted with the final outcome of the Gerflor flooring, and we understand the flooring is performing exceedingly well and meeting all the clients’ expectations.”

Learn more about Gerflor solutions, ask for a free sample or contact us to speak to a specialist today by calling 01625 428 922, emailing contractuk@gerflor.com, or visiting gerflor.co.uk for the latest innovations.

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RESIDENTS WANT MORE GREENERY IN BRITAIN’S CITIES

A lack of green spaces and a need for more environmentally focused developments is seeing a rise in demand for living walls and green roofs in residential projects.

Richard Sabin, Managing Director, Biotecture said: “Having access to greenspace shouldn’t just be a bonus when it comes to living in a city, everyone should be able to easily enjoy nature. It’s no surprise people feel demotivated and isolated if they don’t have access to greenery, whether that’s at their place of work, where they live or where they socialise.

“But it’s true cities can lack the space, which is why vertical living walls can be a great solution. The countryside has its draws, but it’s easy to see why people love living an urban life. Plants and greenery can make our cities healthier, happier, and more resilient to climate change. It’s clear people can enjoy many of the benefits associated with more rural living, whilst enjoying everything our cities have to offer if we prioritise and invest in urban greening.”

Research by living wall specialist Biotecture, a Mitie company, found that two thirds (66%) of people who live in urban environments want to see more botanical beauty where they live, with over a quarter (26%) feeling demotivated by the lack of green space in their area and one in five (20%) feeling isolated.

More than half (51%) think there is not enough investment in urban greening and two fifths (43%) believe there is just too little space available for nature.

Recognising that there is simply not enough horizontal space for parks and open areas, the majority (57%) would welcome more vertical greenery, such as living walls where plants are grown up the side of buildings, to make up for the lack of ground level room in their city. Others want more trees (43%), flower beds (38%) and grass (36%) – as many (78%) say greenery improves their mental wellbeing.

A large number of city dwellers (79%) said they enjoy living in an urban place, thanks to the convenience, career opportunities and social life.

Yet the research also found over two thirds (67%) would consider moving to a

greener suburb or the countryside to be able to enjoy nature more. Those looking to move want cleaner air (40%), a calmer life (39%), more space (34%) and to be able to get outside more (32%).

However, almost two thirds (62%) would consider staying in a metropolitan environment if there was more investment in urban greening, saying the key benefits of living around plenty of greenery include having cleaner air (47%) and more wildlife (45%).

Biotecture is a living wall specialist which aims to transform urban environments and reconnect people with nature. Living walls are panels of plants, grown vertically on structures that are either freestanding or attached to walls. They are a space-saving solution for greenery, containing plants that help to clean the air, provide enhanced insulation and shading for buildings and improve the aesthetics of an area.

Biotecture - Enquiry 18

We’ve got you covered.

A CLEARER VIEW ON PART L – SENIOR LAUNCHES NEW RIBA APPROVED CPD

Senior Architectural Systems, the UK’s largest privately owned manufacturer of aluminium fenestration solutions, has created a new RIBA approved Continuous Personal Development (CPD) seminar which explores the ‘Evolution of Thermally Broken Window Profiles’.

The new CPD has been developed to both inform and support architects and designers in the specification of thermally efficient window systems to meet the new lower U-value targets as outlined by Part L of the Building Regulations.

The seminar looks specifically at the development of aluminium window systems, from the earliest designs to those that incorporate polyamide thermal barriers, and the latest generation of windows that feature the innovative use of polyurethane foam for even greater efficiency.

This is framed by a wider look at how the requirements of Part L have changed over the last 40 years and how thermally broken aluminium windows have evolved to also meet other key considerations such as acoustic performance, fire safety, reducing overheating through solar gain,

and long-term maintenance requirements. The role of the systems manufacturer will also be discussed and the seminar will cover the benefits of early engagement and collaboration, as well as the technical support that is available.

The new seminar on the specification of thermally broken aluminium windows is the latest to be developed by Senior, with the company also offering a CPD on ‘Curtain Wall – design, detail, delivery’.

To book Senior’s new ‘Evolution of Thermally Broken Window Profiles’ CPD, please email enquiries@sasmail.co.uk or call 01709 772600.

For more information about Senior, visit www.seniorarchitectural.co.uk or search for Senior Architectural Systems on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Senior Architectural Systems - Enquiry 20

The Wraptite external air barrier system from the A. Proctor Group has enhanced the performance of a development of retirement living apartments working in partnership with the Hadley Group. The Lichfield’s Bonds retirement living development for Pegasus Life consists of three apartment blocks in the heart of the cathedral city.

The Wraptite external air barrier system from A. Proctor Group was installed in combination with the innovative, unique pre-panelised and fully load-bearing Hadley Frame offsite system, which is ideal for developments of low to medium rise structures.

The UK’s leading garage door manufacturer, Garador, is celebrating its 75th anniversary. With a modern purpose-built factory in Somerset, based around cutting-edge production techniques and engineering expertise, the company has come a long way since it was founded in 1948.

Garador’s Marketing Manager, Paul Eddleston, comments: “Reaching this major milestone is a solid endorsement of Garador and its products. Over the last 75 years we’ve grown to become one of the UK’s most recognised garage door brands and developed our specialist line of products to offer better safety, security and longevity.” Today the company manufacturers an impressive range of over 60 garage door models.

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The Hadley Frame system is designed to be installed off a structural concrete slab or transfer structure and provides a high strength-to-weight ratio and relative weight saving. In some cases, savings of 20-25% in weight can be achieved compared to traditional methods of construction. Adam Salt, Business Development Manager of the A. Proctor Group explained; “Minimising disruption on site provides significant benefits to local residents, particularly in the case of compact inner city sites like the one at Lichfield.

“The Wraptite air barrier system offers a safer and simplified membrane system. It provides a fully selfadhered vapour permeable air barrier certified by the BBA and combines the critical properties of vapour permeability and airtightness in one self-adhering membrane.”

A. Proctor GroupEnquiry 22

Garador celebrates 75th anniversary

Wraptite partners with Hadley Frame for an airtight performance

Meet Cambrian: A full system designed using recycled Welsh slate, to be fully weathertight and easy to install, for the perfect finish every time. It’s not just beautiful, it’s beautifully engineered.

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