One minor change to a fire rated glazing design and specification, no matter how well-intentioned, can have catastrophic consequences.
Minimise the risk of failure by choosing Promat SYSTEMGLAS®. These fire-resistant glazing systems are supplied with clear traceability throughout design, manufacture and installation, with completed projects checked by a Promat passive fire protection specialist.
Promat SYSTEMGLAS Specified for a Reason Promat UK Ltd 0800 588 4444 promatglass@etexgroup.com
Welcome
Gradual recovery set to begin this
year, says CPA
The Construction Products Association’s Winter forecasts show that UK construction output is set for a gradual recovery this year and next, following two challenging years that have particularly affected the two largest sectors – private housing new build and repair, maintenance and improvement (rm&i).
Total construction output is expected to grow by 2.1% in 2025 and 4.0% in 2026.
The recovery for this year is a downward revision compared with 2.5% growth expected in Autumn, given the prospect of slower economic growth, higher inflation for longer, and fewer interest rate cuts than previously expected.
CPA Head of Construction Research, Rebecca Larkin said:
“After a difficult couple of years, it is a welcome return to growth forecast for the construction industry in 2025 and 2026, although the recovery is set to be more gradual than in our forecasts before the Autumn Budget.
“With stubborn inflation meaning interest rates are unlikely to be lowered as much as previously expected, it adds fresh uncertainty to the point at which potential home buyers and existing homeowners will feel comfortable and confident enough to proceed with their largest spending decisions and get a sustained recovery in new house building and rm&i underway.
“This recovery is expected to occur in the second half of the year, combining with the current areas of growth such as energy-efficiency improvements, commercial refurbishments and energy and major infrastructure projects to establish a broader recovery across construction as the year progresses.
“The government will also play a key role in the industry’s longer-term recovery, through setting long-term funding allocations in the Spending Review in June, delivering construction programmes for new schools, hospitals and prisons, and maintaining promised levels of public investment within the bounds of its fiscal rule.
“As the government came to power on a statement that it was pro-business, pro-investment and pro-growth, the next few years will show whether this is true or whether it was merely rhetoric.”
Paul Groves || Group Editor
Verta column casings
Decorative, versatile & practical
The Verta range provides a versatile solution for concealing interior & exterior concrete columns, and structural steelwork, with durable and decorative column casings.
With six separate products within the range, Verta casings can be specified in a choice of materials, standard dimensions & shapes, while fully bespoke manufactured solutions are key features in the range, alongside a wide palette of decorative finishes.
This enables us to offer column casing solutions that can meet the broadest scope of specifications, installations and project needs. We also provide a dedicated professional installation service, allowing us to maintain complete control over any Verta column casing project.
Whatever your casing requirement - we’ve got it covered.
Industry reacts to Government’s plan for new homes and national infrastructure
The industry has given a broad welcome to Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ speech, speech outlining several ambitions, primarily focused on enabling projects and planning permissions.
Regarded by many as a re-set following a bumpy start for the Government and Chancellor since the election and the Autumn Budget, her speech has been given a cautious green light.
Muyiwa Oki, President of the Royal Institute of British Architects, said: “The Government's focus on delivering new homes and national infrastructure is great news – these are essential drivers for economic growth and moves to unlock land near transport hubs can be transformative.
“We need vibrant, well-connected neighbourhoods with everything from accessible transport to green space and bustling local centres.
“But quality matters when creating new developments. Architecture plays a crucial role in ensuring that new places are sustainable, liveable and fit for the future. We remain ready to work with government to meet this challenge head on.
“We look forward to seeing more detail in the forthcoming Planning and Infrastructure Bill."
At the Autumn Budget 2024, Chancellor Reeves scaled back her interference in the planning process. However, in her speech today, she returned to the position that a well-functioning planning system is crucial to not only enabling growth but, more importantly, sustaining it.
Richard Beresford, Chief Executive of the National Federation of Builders (NFB), commented: “The planning system is the main barrier to growth. When decisions are delayed, or worse, intentionally stalled, it halts investment in essential infrastructure, such as clean water, transport networks that connect towns, cities, regions, and nations, the homes that create fairer societies, and the premises that investors and innovators need.
“The UK has lacked a Chancellor that understands that their role is not merely to make fiscal decisions but ensure the barriers to higher GDP and greater business confidence, such as the planning system, underpin their taxation strategies. There is a lot to unpick for the Government and the Treasury but after more than a decade of the NFB highlighting the need for major planning reforms, it is good to see that message get through.”
King’s Road Park green light
St William, a Berkeley Group company, has been granted detailed planning permission for phase four of the King’s Road Park masterplan, including 357 homes and 1.9 acres of new parkland and public open space.
Foster + Partners’ approved design includes a pair of slender residential towers (28 and
Green roof trend sees sedum resurgence
It’s been the hero of green roof systems for decades and now sedum is making a comeback after several years of wildflower living roof systems throwing shade on it.
The low maintenance, heat and drought tolerant plants - also known as ‘stonecrops’ which gives a good indication of their hardiness - are increasingly being recognised by specifiers for their lengthy flowering season and eco benefits.
Julian Thurbin, of leading modular green roofing system manufacturer Wallbarn, said: “Wildflowers have proved a really popular choice but we’re seeing clients and specifiers circle back to sedum - the original extensive green roof plants of choice - because it delivers a longer flowering season and is being recognised for its ability to feed and support wild bees.
38 storeys), and a podium building (sevenstoreys).
The development includes a range of communal spaces for the residents –including a ground level amenity space within the podium that integrates seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.
“There’s no compromise in terms of aesthetics, customers are often really surprised by the beauty and variety of flowering sedum when they see images of our modular M-Tray sedum roofs.”
Including green roofs in projects from garden office roofs to vast commercial installations feeds into growing calls for the government to support green economic growth.
A safer future - unravelling the Golden Thread
Now enshrined in the Building Safety Act, the Golden Thread of information is about transparency and accountability throughout the supply chain.
Specific to a building, the Golden Thread will hold the information that those responsible and accountable for the building require, and prove that the completed building and later work meets the requirements of the relevant Building Regulations. Having the Golden Thread means that the people responsible for the building and other relevant parties such as contractors will have reliable, accurate and easily accessible up to date information.
By bringing all the information together in one place, this core record-keeping process tracks a building’s design, construction, and operation.
Kyle Alexander, Project and Engineering Manager of IG Masonry Support, said: “With growing scrutiny on product information, manufacturers like us are increasingly focused on helping stakeholders maintain a reliable and accessible Golden Thread of information. Duty holders, including consultants and contractors, need reliable information about the products they specify and install.
“We maintain rigorous ISO 9001 Quality Management Systems accreditation through continual assessment of the company’s internal information management system to ensure its robustness.
“We also provide comprehensive product information which includes detailed specifications, performance and accreditation data, installation instructions,
and maintenance guidelines - all of which are easily accessible on its website and specification platforms. This information is currently under review by the Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI).
“Furthermore, we meticulously maintain accurate records and documentation, systematically preserving precise technical data, comprehensive certifications, and detailed test reports to support duty holders in establishing and maintaining essential product information throughout a building's lifecycle.
“There are also provides extensive training and educational resources, offering in-depth guidance to specifiers and contractors on the comprehensive installation, appropriate
use, and ongoing maintenance of its products.
“The Golden Thread is about having the right information to ensure safer buildings and more accountable construction practices. By creating a seamless flow of information from design through to construction and operation, it ensures that all stakeholders—from architects to contractors—have access to accurate, upto-date data that is critical for maintaining safety and compliance.”
As the Building Safety Act continues to shape industry standards, product manufacturers such as IG Masonry Support will play a crucial role in supporting this shift.
Serpentine is delighted to announce that Bangladeshi architect and educator Marina Tabassum and her firm, Marina Tabassum Architects (MTA), have been selected to design the 2025 Pavilion.
Titled A Capsule in Time. Marina Tabassum’s Pavilion will be unveiled to the public at Serpentine South on 6 June 2025 with Goldman Sachs supporting the annual project for the 11th consecutive year.
Marina Tabassum said: “When conceiving our design, we reflected on the transient nature of the commission which appears to us as a capsule of memory and time. The relationship between time and architecture is intriguing: between permanence and impermanence, of birth, age and ruin; architecture aspires to outlive time.”
Serpentine Pavilion at 25
Style & practicality
The Pendock Radius range provides architects and specifiers with the perfect solution for concealing interior or exterior columns & structural steelwork with decorative, durable and practical column casings.
Incorporating both standard and bespoke shapes in a range of materials, finishes & sizes, Radius offers unrivalled versatility and choice. They can also be installed by our experienced teams to ensure the perfect fit and finish are achieved.
The Radius range includes:
Material: Ply/MDF; aluminium; stainless steel; GRP and GRG
Shape: Circular; square; rectangle; ellipse; triangle; polygon and bespoke
Finish*: Site-finish; HPL; PPC; brushed; polished, textured; patterned and Gelcoat
*Dependent on material
Pendock Radius is part of our extensive casings, enclosures and decorative architectural products range, which combines aesthetics with practicality and design flexibility.
Enquiry 5
The crucial role of blue roofs in mitigating UK water shortages
Neill Robinson-Welsh, consultant at ACO Building Drainage, explores the significant impact of blue roofs on addressing water shortages.
Blue roofs are advanced drainage systems designed to temporarily hold rainwater and release it slowly, unlike traditional roofs that quickly drain water. These systems help manage stormwater runoff, particularly in dense urban environments, decreasing the risk of flooding and easing the load on sewer systems. This capability is particularly important as urban areas continue to expand and climate change increases the volume of stormwater.
Integral to urban climate resilience, blue roofs diminish the risk of flash floods and mitigate drought effects. When combined with green roofs, where vegetation is planted and sustained by the stored rainwater, blue roofs also alleviate the urban heat island effect, providing cooling and improving environmental conditions in cities.
The UK is already experiencing water stress in regions such as the south and east, with projections indicating that by the mid-2030s, water demand will exceed supply unless substantial infrastructure improvements are made.
The potential of blue roofs
Blue roofs are pivotal for managing stormwater by controlling runoff and preventing flooding. By retaining rainwater, they lessen the immediate burden on sewer systems, which is essential during heavy rainfall events.
In addition to managing stormwater, blue roofs support water conservation efforts. Captured rainwater can be used for irrigation, which is particularly important given the UK's increasing water scarcity. This reuse of rainwater minimises reliance on conventional water supplies and promotes self-sufficiency for buildings.
Incorporating blue roofs allows cities to foster more sustainable and resilient urban landscapes, better prepared to address the challenges posed by climate change. In addition to managing water effectively, blue roofs promote biodiversity and contribute to enhancing the overall quality of life in urban areas. For blue roofs to function effectively, meticulous design and seamless integration are essential.
Critical considerations include the roof's slope, the positioning of outlets, and the choice of suitable attenuation systems.
ACO provides the only solution currently available that is specifically engineered to operate independently of the roof's waterproofing and drainage infrastructure, enabling precise water retention management.
For instance, the modular design of ACO RoofBloxx facilitates straightforward maintenance and ensures reliable performance over time, even under severe weather conditions.
This system is also fully compliant with building regulations, enabling roofs to efficiently manage stormwater while enhancing the overall resilience of the structure. By retaining water and controlling runoff without compromising the roof’s structural integrity, ACO RoofBloxx units are well-suited for contemporary buildings in regions likely to face water scarcity.
Designed as both a functional handrail and robust crash rail, all in one stylish design, it’s easy to install and maintain.
Available as two independent sections, each offered in a variety of colour options that can be mixed and matched. The Contour blends seamlessly into any interior designs, providing support for those in need, while also fending off impact damage from heavy wheeled equipment and people usage.
Smart and sustainable scheme creates a new landmark
Just 150m from Farringdon Station, the JJ Mack building on Charterhouse Street is marketed as ‘one of London’s smartest and most sustainable office buildings’.
The JJ Mack Building, at the gateway to London’s former Smithfield meat market, takes its name from a trader who started selling vegetables from a street barrow and built his business into an impressive store. The new building both commemorates great Smithfield enterprise and showcases the area’s current exciting renaissance.
The bold graphics on the new building are inspired by the original JJ Mack and Sons signage, and a plaque in the entrance lobby
remembers those who lost their lives when the original building was bombed during World War II.
With its rich past, there’s no doubt that the smart and sustainable JJ Mack Building is also well set for the future.
“The building embodies a dual identity as one of London’s smartest and most sustainable workplaces,” said a spokesperson for the architects. “It maintains the street profile of the listed Port of London Authority building next door, with the base of the building clad in natural stone and upper lightweight glazed storeys stepped back from the street.
“Deep tan leather accents and bronze detailing enrich the fluted wall treatment, creating a welcoming impression of craft and space. Reclaimed castiron columns found on the site stand either side of the reception.
The original building was bombed in World War II, and a plaque acknowledges the casualties of the bombing. Historic photos, juxtaposed with neon artwork by Rob and Nick Carter, express the J J Mack narrative.
“The flexible 1500mm planning grid influenced the structural and façade grids and the expression of materials and detailing throughout the building. Exposed services and acoustic panels are set within downstand beams.
“An atrium light scoop and artwork, influenced by the J J Mack brand, extends from ground to fifth floor and provides daylight augmented by artificial light along its eastern boundary. Three generous terraces provide spectacular views over London, the City and St Paul’s to the south.”
JJ Mack has an embodied carbon figure 15% lower than the current average LETI design target and 52% lower than the regulated Targeted Emissions Rate defined by Part L of the Building Regulations (2013). Earth Friendly Concrete (with a 50% embodied carbon saving over standard mixes) and UK steel were used in its construction.
The building was assessed as BREEAM Outstanding (2018) with an EPC ‘A’ rating at design stage. >>
Enquiry 7
>> It is connected to the Citigen district energy network, a world-leading trigeneration network for heating, cooling and power across the City of London. Smart Spaces technology provides control for building users via a phone app and a 100% touch-free journey from door to desk.
A total of 144 photovoltaic panels are installed on the roof alongside 885 sqm of biodiverse green roof pre-planted with native wildflowers, grasses, herbaceous perennials, bulbs and sedums. Bug hotels, bird and bat roosting spaces, and two bee colonies support biodiversity.
Chris Waite, LDS Director, added: “We think it’s a highly desirable place to work, somewhere that will stimulate creativity. The interiors are flooded with light and have spectacular views of St Paul’s, the Shard and Smithfield Market.
A variety of Schlüter-Systems’ products were specified to provide robust waterproofing and tile protection in the bathrooms and changing areas.
With wellbeing as their priority, architects Lifschutz Davidson Sandilands have created a highly desirable place to work. Enhanced fresh-air systems, a building app and roof terraces are just some of the building facilities designed to improve the day-to-day wellbeing of its occupiers.
Sustainability was also high on the agenda, and the building includes photovoltaic panels installed alongside a biodiverse green roof including bug hotels, bird and bat roosting spaces, and two bee colonies. The building was assessed as BREEAM Outstanding (2018) with an EPC ‘A’ rating at design stage. Looking specifically at the bathrooms, greywater is collected from most of the showers and some of the taps.
This greywater, together with rainwater, is then organically treated within the building and recycled to feed all of the toilet flushing systems.
Several components from the SchlüterKERDI range were chosen to ensure a reliable, waterproof installation, including the Schlüter-KERDI waterproofing membrane, Schlüter-KERDI-KERECK pre-formed external and internal corners, Schlüter-KERDI-MV pipe collars and Schlüter-KERDI-KEBA sealing band, all finished with the sealant adhesive Schlüter-KERDI-COLL-L.
The floor drain systems Schlüter-KERDILINE provide simple and guaranteed bonded waterproofing to the building drains with the ready-to-tile shower board Schlüter-KERDI-SHOWER-LTS ensuring the quick and reliable creation of the necessary slope for appropriate shower drainage.
“Wellbeing was a priority and we incorporated enhanced fresh-air systems, low/no VOC paint, and roof terraces landscaped by Christopher Bradley-Hole. We thought hard about future-proofing the building and incorporating the sophisticated technology that operates it.
“First and foremost, we think it’s a place where people will want to work during the day and into the evening, when it takes on a picturesque quality as the City skyline lights up.”
CERTIFIED GLASS FOR CERTIFIED FRAMING SYSTEMS.
Our fire and safety glass products are ideal for fire doors, screens, and glass partitioning systems.
We offer in-house CNC work and oversized IGUs to meet your bespoke project needs.
Technical advice and support is provided, and we stock all major brands of fire-rated glass, as well as acoustic, laminated, toughened, and mirrored glass products, available with short lead times. Supply only or supply and fit, to ensure your project is completed efficiently and to the highest standards.
Kinewall - hygienic and stylish wall panel solutions for commercial and residential applications
In this article, Kinedo (SFA UK Saniflo) Marketing Manager Amanda Mills highlights the benefits of Kinewall for hygienic and stylish commercial and residential bathrooms, washrooms, and utility spaces.
In an era where cleanliness and hygiene are paramount, Kinewall, the innovative wall panel system from Kinedo, delivers advanced solutions for bathrooms, shower rooms, WCs, and utility rooms in both commercial and residential applications.
For commercial applications
Commercial washroom environments face substantial challenges from high footfall, making hygiene and maintenance critical. Kinewall is manufactured from a polyethylene core sandwiched by aluminium and varnished in an ultra-hygienic environment in the Kinedo factory in France.
This not only offers exceptional ease of installation and long-term durability, but also a solution that is easy to maintain and clean. Unlike traditional tiling, where grout can become discoloured, dirty and potentially mouldy with use, Kinewall's seamless, waterproof surface is scratch resistant and doesn’t degenerate with the use of cleaning materials; making it highly suitable for use in public buildings.
With Kinewall, there is no excuse for dreary designs in public spaces either. The stunning range of designs make it easy to create an attractive space quickly and easily.
For residential applications
For residential applications, Kinewall combines practical benefits with design versatility. The system features over 70 styles and finishes, backed by a 10-year warranty and it is even possible to specify a bespoke design for a multiple order;
meaning that something completely unique is possible. With ease of maintenance top of the priority list for many homeowners, the fully waterproof panels are easily cleaned with nonabrasive cleaner eliminating common maintenance challenges.
Whether Kinewall is specified in a shower enclosure, above the basin or on a full wall, it is a reliable, long-lasting, and noleak alternative to tiling that enhances any room.
Kinewall – Enquiry 9
Exciting News: Fassa UK Launches New Range of Self-Levelling Screeds
We are excited to introduce our exceptional range of self-levelling screeds, now available in the UK market!
At Fassa UK, we believe that the first step to achieving a flawless floor covering lies in using topquality products. That’s why we are proud to bring you three cutting-edge floor levelling solutions designed to deliver first-class results and ensure long-lasting durability.
Introducing Our New Products: SA 500: The go-to self-levelling cementbased screed for residential interior floors. Known for its excellent workability, shrinkage compensated formula, and suitability for underfloor heating and cooling systems, SA 500 ensures outstanding flatness and is ideal for machine application.
SL 416: A fast-setting, self-levelling smooth coat for interior floors. With superb levelling properties, easy application, and impressive mechanical strength, SL 416 is perfect for both renovations and new constructions, with a thickness range of 1-10mm and excellent bonding properties.
SM 485: Your choice for a fast-setting, self-levelling smooth coat for interior floors, reinforced with fibres for added strength. SM 485 offers excellent levelling and easy application, making it
an ideal solution for renovations and new constructions alike.
Got a question? We are only a call away. For more information on how our new range can enhance your projects, please don’t hesitate to contact us at info.fassauk@fassabortolo.com or (0)1684 218 305
Fassa UK – Enquiry 12
INTRODUCING OUR NEW SCREEDS AND FLOOR LAYING MATERIALS
We are proud to present a new range of floor laying materials, including top-quality screeds, that ensure lasting durability.
SA 500: Self-levelling cement screed for residential interior floors
SL 416: Fast-setting, selflevelling smooth coat for interior floors
SM 485: Fast-setting, fibre-reinforced, self-levelling smooth coat for interior floors
TO FIND OUT MORE about Fassa Bortolo and its range of render systems and building products. Visit www.fassabortolo.co.uk or call 01684 218 305
Ulster University Campus, Belfast – Look No Joints!
The main Ulster University campus building by Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios (FCBS) was built into Belfast city centre, and is a 75,000m2 complex, designed to accommodate up to around 16,000 students, faculty and staff, with four facilities and departments in three interconnected buildings and a bridge, which was delivered in multiple phases.
It is now a prestige example of modern city and education facility architecture, which has some interesting details and statistics, there are 19 different roof levels, several connected as roof gardens with a cafe, including glazed lantern-lights to maximise natural light inside much of the building, especially the main entrance atria, central stairwells and walkways. There are 18 passenger lifts, the technical facilities have more than 600km of data cables, mostly hidden under 95,000 computer floor tiles, in over 300 classrooms & other learning spaces, including a state-of-the-art 350-seat lecture theatre.
Externally the impressive facades consist of more than 650,000 facing bricks used in large structural panels with strict requirements for the joints between them: the horizontal joints were initially designed to be 50mm wide, and pretesting of the configuration had shown they needed to be able to compress by at least 20+mm during normal cycles of thermal movement: the vertical joints were the same initial dimensions and these needed to not only expand and contract with the lateral thermal movement, but also to accommodate longitudinal and vertical shear as well.
In addition, the relatively wide and large movement joints needed to help prevent sound transmission from the external city streets environment to the learning spaces inside and to provide a high level of fire resistance.
Performance-wise, these seemingly onerous demands were absolutely no problem for the architects, as they were all achieved by specifying the Emseal Colorseal System, preformed joint sealing solution. In addition to the other performance and installation advantages, the Emseal Colorseal system could also be colour matched to the brickwork, for the more than 800 linear metres of these
wide and high movement capability façade expansion joints on this project.
The key performance parameters of Emseal Seismic Colorseal VHE - CE include:
• +/- 50% movement capability (total 100%)
• 100% watertight joints
• No potentially damaging mechanical fixings into the structure
• Can accommodate changes in direction in both horizontal and vertical planes
• 3-Dimensional movement, including Shear, Vertical and Lateral (expansion/contraction)
For comprehensive technical support from the design office, right through to practical installation to completion on your site, speak to NCC, the exclusive Agents and Distributors of Emseal products and systems throughout the UK and ROI.
UK Website : www.emsealservices.co.uk Email: Sales@NCCinAction.co.uk Call: 01257 266696
NCC Emseal – Enquiry 14
Fire Resistant with CE-marked 4-hour EI Fire Integrity
Watertight, Airtight, and Smoketight
Thermally and Acoustically Insulating 100% Joint Movement Capability (+/- 50%)
Recent Projects Using Emseal Fire Resistant Joint Seals
Emseal Provides Unique Solutions
• ETA CE-marked, up to 4-hours EI fire integrity rated, in accordance with EN 1366-4.
• Watertight, airtight, and smoketight, with no leaks (1200 Pa to EN 12154 and 12155).
• Thermally insulating (4-hours to EN 1366-4 / EN 10140-2), and acoustically insulating (sound attenuation Rs.w >/= 54 to EN 10140-2 / EN 12999-1)
• 100% joint movement capability to EN 1366-4 (+/- 50%), with 3-D movement, including shear & vertical, as well as expansion & contraction in joints from 12 to 100mm wide.
• Trafficable where required, and suitable for both externally exposed and internal applications.
• No potentially damaging mechanical fixings, or other invasive anchoring into the structure.
• Quickly and easily installed with access from one side only, in new construction & refurbishment.
Manchester Airport Wembley Stadium Battersea Power Station Olympia Redevelopment Castle Redevelopment, Bristol One Mayfair
Student accommodation investment hits £3.5bn in 2024
Investment in the UK Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) sector reached £3.5 billion in 2024, marking a 13% increase from 2023, according to Savills.
Over the past five years, the sector’s annual investment volumes have averaged £4.9 billion, demonstrating its resilience despite ongoing market challenges.
The international real estate advisor believes that this, alongside improving investor sentiment, signals that the UK PBSA market has the ability to see greater liquidity volumes in 2025.
Lizzie Beagley, Head of UK PBSA & Co-Living Transactions, Savills Operational Capital Markets, said: “Despite a challenging year, the PBSA market remains resilient and a crucial component of the operational living investment market. 2025 is set to be an exciting year, with notable portfolio transactions and an increase in development funding and joint ventures expected.”
Savills research highlights the sector’s strength in 2024, despite challenges including visa delays, rising capital costs and a tough fundraising climate. Large scale land transactions demonstrated strong demand fundamentals including the sale of the 1,014-
bed One Medlock scheme in Manchester, where Savills advised Dominus on its deal with Greystar, and Greystar’s acquisition of the 836-bed Triangle site in Selly Oak from Apsley Capital and Galliard.
The central London land market also performed strongly, highlighted by the sale of the 444-bed Kings Place to Unite and iQ/ Blackstone’s acquisition of Blackfriars Crown Court, driven by sustained student demand and the appeal of London PBSA development. Regionally, resilience was evident in deals such as Savills advising Corebridge on the sale of assets in Bournemouth and Cardiff to Generation, supported by new capital partner, Goldman Sachs.
In 2024, traditional forward funding deals were limited, however, Savills advised on the acquisition of Gas Lane in Bristol for Hines from Watkin Jones. The year also saw a shift toward creative deal structuring, with a focus on joint ventures and preferred equity arrangements, such as the partnership at Grove Crescent, Stratford, with Housing Growth Partnership and Watkin Jones, along with several other transactions of this nature in the pipeline.
The availability of operational stock was limited, but demand remained strong, with notable interest in portfolios like Savills Project Sandpiper (Curlew).
Charlie Bottomley, Director, Savills Capital Advisors, Debt Advisory, added: “We continue to see strong demand from lenders to deploy capital into the PBSA sector, with both bank and nonbank capital actively seeking high-quality opportunities. Although underlying interest rates remain elevated, competition is exerting downward pressure on margins, and even mainstream bank lenders are becoming more flexible on leverage and covenant packages to secure prime financing opportunities.” >>
Savills
Savills
Urbanite Living development at Jocelyn Square in Glasgow
>> Building the future
Karndean Commercial has partnered with Oxford Brookes University to build a vibrant and sustainable student community in harmony with its woodland setting.
The new Clive Booth Student Village, set close to the university’s Headington Campus, replaces outdated student accommodation built in the 1970s with a complex of accommodation blocks that sit sensitively within the established wooded landscape and conform to Passivhaus and BREEAM design principles.
Appointing MICA Architects and Karndean Commercial alongside a multi-disciplinary
team, including landscape architects, ecology and arboricultural consultants as well as transport and heritage consultants, Oxford Brookes University is constructing 12 environmentally friendly blocks containing over one thousand spacious and airy study bedrooms within contemporary shared apartments.
Richard Allen, sales director at Karndean Commercial said: “In an urban area with extreme pressure on rental housing like Oxford, having purpose built accommodation for students is a boon for the university and the wider community. We are proud to be involved with a project that is increasing the availability of much needed student accommodation whilst protecting the established woodland setting, retaining prize specimens and planting new trees to enhance the landscape.
“Our designs are all inspired by the wonderous beauty of nature and the precious woods and stones we source from around the world so we understand the benefits of connecting our living spaces to the healing power of the natural world and the need to minimise our impact on the environment.”
Karndean’s Knight Tile rigid core flooring, part of the Karndean Living collection, features a host of practical benefits including a waterproof, hygienic surface that’s easy to maintain, a durable 0.3mm wear layer and R10 slip resistance, while an integrated acoustic layer reduces impact noise transfer to rooms below by 19dB. With a click-locking mechanism, Knight Tile
is easy to install over most hard subfloors and is suitable for any residential setting or light to moderate commercial use. Each floor comes with a lifetime residential or ten year commercial guarantee.
Helping school decarbonise
Funding from the Welsh Government has helped a Ruthin secondary school decarbonise their heating by replacing gas boilers with renewable air source heat pumps.
Ysgol Brynhyfryd is a bilingual coeducational comprehensive school for over 1,000 pupils aged between 11 and 18 years of age in the beautiful valley of Clywd, in North Wales.
The school is maintained by the Denbighshire Education Authority and the renewable solution was the installation of solar photovoltaic panels on the school roof, along with replacing three gas boilers with two commercial air source heat pumps.
The existing gas boilers were replaced with two 40kw CAHV air source heat pumps from Mitsubishi Electric. The school has underfloor floor heating throughout. Coupled with this, JM Renewables installed a further 75kW of solar panels on the building’s roof, to help with the running costs.
The CAHV heat pumps achieve 70°C water temperatures down to -20°C ambient temperature to deliver continuous heating. Multiple unit cascade control offers capacity from 7.8kW to 640kW to make the system suitable for a wide range of applications.
Karndean
Mitsubishi Electric
Student accommodation boom to drive solid surface sector, says industry leader
Velstone Director Sameer Sawant discusses how the student housing boom will drive the solid surface sector in 2025.
The unprecedent growth in the UK student accommodation sector is showing no signs of slowing down, driven by record student numbers and increasing international investment. As we look ahead to 2025/26, this expansion presents opportunities for the construction industry, particularly in solid surface specification.
The landscape of student accommodation has transformed dramatically over the past decade. Students typically prefer purposebuilt serviced accommodation throughout their studies, creating sustained demand for high-quality facilities.
We're no longer talking about basic living spaces; students now seek high-quality, well-designed environments and it’s a shift that is reflected in the scale of current developments, including Europe's tallest student housing project in Canary Wharf in London.
We now have specialist Student Accommodation developers such as VITA and Chapter, amongst others who fully understand and cater to the needs and expectations of today’s students and parents.
What's driving this change? Despite Brexitrelated declines in EU student numbers, there has been an increase in international students from the likes of China, India, and Nigeria. The student market offers highly lucrative investment opportunity for Foreign investors to ‘bulk’ buy multiple student units across branded residential sites. With the student numbers ever increasing, so is the demand for these residential units with guaranteed rental income.
daily wear and tear, requiring surfaces that can withstand high traffic volume while remaining easy to maintain.
Hygiene is another key consideration. Nonporous, seamless surfaces that prevent bacteria accumulation are essential in shared living spaces and in kitchens and bathrooms.
At Velstone, we've positioned ourselves to meet these specific challenges. Not only does Velstone manufacture the material in sheet form, we also offer fully finished, ready to install kitchen and bathroom tops for Student Accommodation. Our factory-finished solid surfaces can be delivered at scale, ensuring consistent quality across large projects.
However, construction costs, stricter safety regulations, and increased emphasis on sustainability are creating new challenges for developers and specifiers, and this is where careful material selection becomes crucial. When specifying solid surfaces for student accommodation projects, three key factors demand attention: availability, longevity, and cost-effectiveness. But these shouldn't come at the expense of quality or durability. Student accommodation faces intense
We offer bespoke thicknesses and various design options, allowing architects and contractors to achieve their desired design while meeting practical requirements.
The student accommodation sector's evolution from basic housing to premium investment opportunity has raised the bar for material specification.
As it continues to get bigger and bigger, choosing the right solid surface partner becomes increasingly critical to project success.
With our proven track record in large-scale developments and understanding of sectorspecific requirements, we're well-positioned to support this booming market's needs.
FInd out more at www.velstone.com
Velstone – Enquiry 18
Futurebuild 2025 - for architects and specifiers seeking sustainable solutions
From March 4-6, 2025, London Excel will host the 20th edition of Futurebuild, which offers architects, specifiers, and built environment professionals the insights and tools needed to create resilient, sustainable, and forward-thinking designs.
Futurebuild’s main exhibition floor will feature leading-edge materials, technologies, and systems designed to tackle the most pressing challenges facing architects and specifiers.
From advanced low-carbon concrete solutions to innovative digital design tools, exhibitors such as Back to Earth (SW) Ltd, Energystore Ltd, Working for Wildlife, Zinco Green Roof Systems Limited, and many more, will present game-changing solutions that align with modern sustainability goals.
Central to the exhibition is the Innovation Trail, a curated pathway connecting visitors to the most forward-thinking exhibitors. Architects and specifiers can discover pioneering products, methods, and materials that set new benchmarks in energy efficiency, waste reduction, and circular design. Innovation Partners for 2025 include CarbonFutureX Group, SDS Water, Heatweb Solutions, and many more.
The Futurebuild Arena Conference, sponsored by Mitsubushi Electric, will be host to a range of informative sessions. This year’s conference focuses on three core themes—circularity, social justice, and actionable sustainability—providing a roadmap for addressing the environmental and societal challenges shaping the future of architecture and construction. It will feature industry-leading speakers such as Rachael Sayers, Partner at FCB Studios, Kat Scott, Sustainability and Climate Change Officer at Hackney Council and Architects Declare, Baroness Taylor of Stevenage, Parlimentary Under-Secretary of State for Housing and Local Government at MHCLG, and loads more.
Focused impactful learning opportunities
This year’s event features five Impact Stages, offering CPD-accredited sessions that address specific facets of the built environment:
• Buildings Impact Stage (sponsored by HG Matthews);
• Materials Impact Stage (sponsored by Aggregate Industries);
• Placemaking Impact Stage (sponsored by Hahn Plastics);
• Energy Impact Stage (sponsored by Kensa);
• FutureX Digital Disruptors Impact Stage (sponsored by One Click LCA).
Returning for a second year after an incredibly successful launch at Futurebuild 2024, the National Retrofit Conference is a dedicated space for professionals focusing on decarbonising the UK’s existing building stock. Sponsored by Sustainable Building Services and curated by Retrofit Academy CIC, the conference covers topics such as scaling up retrofit initiatives and addressing challenges in legacy housing stock.
The National Retrofit Expo will feature innovative exhibitors, including E.ON, Trustmark, and q-bot, showcasing solutions
that align with national net-zero goals. One highlight is the Big Retrofit Challenge, held in partnership with Innovate UK and the National Home Decarbonisation Group (NHDG), where finalists pitch their latest innovations designed to tackle the toughest retrofit challenges in building decarbonisation.
Returning to the stage, The Big Innovation Pitch will highlight cutting-edge solutions with finalists presenting their ideas to a live audience and industry leaders. These fastpaced sessions are ideal for architects and specifiers seeking innovative approaches to complex sustainability challenges.
With a 20-year legacy, Futurebuild has become more than an exhibition—it’s a hub for connection, learning, and collaboration. Whether attending to meet suppliers, earn CPD points, or explore new technologies, the event offers architects and specifiers the tools to influence meaningful change.
Register today for a free ticket by scanning the QR code.
Futurebuild – Enquiry 19
Shape the future of the built environment with the industry’s brightest minds. At Futurebuild, you’ll discover cutting-edge solutions, collaborate with innovators, and gain insights from leaders driving real change. Whether you’re looking to make an impact on sustainability, innovation, or collaboration, this is your chance to be part of the movement towards a net-zero future.
Enquiry 20
Dimplex brings sustainable innovation with the Zeroth Energy System
Dimplex, a UK-headquartered global leader in electric heating and ventilation solutions, is set to showcase its cutting-edge Zeroth Energy System at Futurebuild 2025, stand N58.
The system exemplifies Dimplex’s commitment to sustainable innovation, enabling developers to meet the stringent demands of Parts L, F, and O of the Building Regulations, whilst taking advantage of district heat networks.
The Zeroth Energy System offers a transformative approach to heating, cooling and hot water in multi-occupancy residential and mixed-use developments. At its core, the system employs an ambient loop maintained at around 25°C, powered by a central low-carbon plant or connected to a district heat network.
Within individual apartments, compact Zeroth units - comprising water-to-water heat pumps and integrated hot water cylinders - deliver highly efficient space heating, hot water and comfort cooling.
This innovative solution brings several key advantages over traditional high-temperature systems. By operating at low temperatures, the ambient loop drastically reduces
heat losses, improving system efficiency and minimising the risk of overheating in communal areas. Developers can also benefit from reduced insulation requirements and smaller plant room designs, freeing up valuable space while lowering costs.
Flexibility is a hallmark of the Zeroth Energy System, accommodating a range of heating and cooling emitters, including underfloor heating, radiators and fan coil units. Its adaptability makes it an ideal choice for both new-build developments and deep retrofit projects. Supplied pre-wired and pre-plumbed, Zeroth units are designed for easy installation into standard cupboards and can even be incorporated into off-site manufactured utility pods, streamlining the construction process.
Beyond technical efficiency, the system aligns with the evolving energy landscape. It integrates seamlessly with low-carbon energy sources and enables participation in demand-side response programs. This allows building managers to adjust energy
consumption to take advantage of off-peak electricity tariffs and surplus renewable energy. This not only lowers residents’ energy bills but also supports grid stability and reduces carbon emissions.
The Zeroth Energy System is just one part of Dimplex’s exhibit at Futurebuild, and other innovative products will also be on display, including a new Monobloc air-source heat pump for housing developments and the Edel hot water heat pump, a compact solution for smaller projects. Together, these technologies highlight Dimplex’s expertise in delivering future-ready solutions that meet the needs of modern living while driving progress toward net-zero carbon goals.
Visit Dimplex at Futurebuild 2025 on stand N58 to experience the Zeroth Energy System and discover how it can revolutionise energy efficiency and sustainability in residential developments.
Dimplex – Enquiry 21
GreenCoat® – colour coated steel with bio-based coatings for sustainable buildings
At SSAB Swedish Steel, we are always looking for innovative architects who strive to create sustainable buildings. Our GreenCoat® colour coated steels provide architects with a modern, durable and sustainable building material using a coating where Swedish rapeseed oil and other renewable raw materials are used. This reduces the environmental footprint significantly – and it makes the GreenCoat® colour coated steel product portfolio one of the greenest offer for roofs, façades and rainwater systems on the market. GreenCoat® colour coated steel products comply with current REACH regulations, are chromate free, and come in a wide range of colours and finishes.
Fossil freedom is just around the corner!
At Futurebuild 2025 SSAB is presenting SSAB Zero™, a steel made of recycled steel and produced with virtually zero carbon emissions. This steel will make an impact on our future city construction in a more sustainable way.
Learn more on ssab.com/fossil-free-steel
SSAB Swedish Steel Ltd
T 01384 472300
greencoat.uk@ssab.com
Wick Lane, East London. Architect: dRMM, London.
Graphenstone Paints to present GrafClean paint
Graphenstone, one of the industry’s leading lights in the sustainable paint sector will present its latest new colour collections alongside its premium interior paint offer GrafClean, at the 2025 edition of Futurebuild.
Graphenstone, one of the industry’s leading lights in the sustainable paint sector will present its latest new colour collections alongside its premium interior paint offer GrafClean, at the 2025 edition of Futurebuild.
Known for its graphene-infused range of air purifying paints, specifiers using its Class 1
GreenCoat for sustainable buildings
GreenCoat® is SSAB’s brand for innovative, sustainable colour coated steel solutions for roofs, facades and rainwater systems.
Widely used in sustainable architecture, GreenCoat® products offer an extensive range of more than 400 colours. Most GreenCoat® products use a coating where Swedish rapeseed oil and other renewable raw materials are used. This solution from SSAB reduces the environmental footprint significantly – and it makes the GreenCoat® colour coated steel product portfolio one of the market’s greenest offer for roofs and façades. SSAB builds a stronger, lighter and more sustainable world through value added steel products and services. Visit GreenCoat® at Futurebuild on stand D40 to find out more.
GreenCoat – Enquiry 24
vapour open products can significantly lower carbon on projects. The technical team will be on hand to advise visitors about how its Cradle to Cradle™ certified paints can be used to help reach ESG targets, and which products work best for specific surfaces.
Having announced several exciting projects and collaborations last year which saw a new distribution partnership with Brewers Decorator Centres (its paints are now available in over 300 branches
UK-wide), the launch of its revolutionary new ‘Peel and Stick’ colour samples which use 30% recycled materials and are 100% recyclable, and the launch of a new colour collection with the Royal Ballet and Opera, 2025 is predicted to be an exciting year for the brand.
Visit Graphenstone at Futurebuild on Stand G20a, 4-6 March, Excel, London.
Graphenstone Paints – Enquiry 23
A winning hand with Ravago Building Solutions UK
Ravago Building Solutions, the UK’s original manufacturer of extruded polystyrene (XPS) insulation, is inviting Futurebuild attendees to visit stand E70 on the GRO Pavilion to discover why its Ravatherm XPS X range gives customers a ‘winning hand’ in insulation.
With comprehensive Declarations of Performance (DoPs), full transparency on compressive creep across its entire product range, and the lowest thermal conductivity of any UK manufactured XPS board accompanied with a BBA certificate for its Ravatherm XPS X ULTRA, Ravago customers are left holding all the aces.
Architects and building specifiers can meet Ravago’s trusted team at the stand to discuss complex design specifications. With over 100 years of combined expertise in thermal insulation, the team is ready to advise on the extensive variety of Ravatherm XPS X boards for roof and floor applications, available in a wide range of thicknesses and compressive strengths.
Visit Ravago at Futurebuild to find out more and discover how its innovation and expertise stack the deck in your favour.
Ravago – Enquiry 25
INTRODUCING OUR NEW RANGE OF
CONCRETE ROOF TILES
Introducing the brand new FP McCann range of high quality, machine produced Concrete Roof Tiles. Now available in a variety of profiles and colour options. FP McCann also boast an extensive range of roofing accessories, each specifically chosen and designed to work in cohesion with all aspects of the FP McCann Full Roof offering and are completely compliant with BS 5534 and NHBC guidelines.
CONTACT: JONATHAN PRATT FP MCCANN NATIONAL ROOF TILE MANAGER 07740433860 | JPRATT@FPMCCANN.CO.UK
CUPA PIZARRAS slate specified for stunning barn renovations in Yorkshire
CUPA PIZARRAS natural slate has been specified by Andas Homes for barn house renovations in Wetherby, West Yorkshire. With ambitions to make the renovations as sustainable as possible, the team wanted ecofriendly building materials and felt that CUPA R18 would be ideal due to its natural properties.
Originally built over 160 years ago, the barns in Wetherby were diligently renovated by Andas Homes to become a selection of stunning family properties. Throughout the renovation, space and quality were prioritised to achieve a luxurious finish, and the overall design looked to complement and maximise the picturesque surrounding views.
With a focus on biophilic design, Andas Homes seeks to ensure its projects are designed with a real connection to the natural world. This includes using materials that are non-toxic, eco-friendly and sustainable. The team were looking for a sustainable roofing solution for the barns that would also complement the original design features.
The architect, Dormer & Co., suggested CUPA PIZARRAS natural slate, having attended a CPD previously. The Andas Homes team met with the local CUPA PIZARRAS representative to find out more about the company and the sustainability credentials of its natural slate.
CUPA PIZARRAS slate is 100% natural and has the lowest carbon footprint of any roofing material. Its production process is also highly efficient, using minimal amounts of water and energy, and no chemicals. CUPA PIZARRAS has achieved a Net Zero certification, EcoVadis Gold Medal and BRE Global verification of its EPD.
Furthermore, the CUPA PIZARRAS slates also have impressive performance credentials, withstanding any weather conditions, including extreme temperatures, UV light and acid rain.
enough for one
Michael Simpson from Andas Homes commented: “We loved the finish of the CUPA PIZARRAS natural slate. We specified the use of the slate due to its sustainable properties and found that it was perfect fit for our desired aesthetic.” The project’s contractor, Cousin’s Roofing, had previously worked with CUPA PIZARRAS natural slate and also encouraged its use for this project. Despite dealing with some difficult design aspects, such as sprocketed eaves, which led in to hips only
“The product is a great natural slate to use and always looks amazing when it is laid correctly. We often recommend CUPA R18 when asked what product would look nice on a project.”
For more information about CUPA PIZARRAS roof slates, visit https://www.cupapizarras.com/uk/
CUPA PIZARRAS – Enquiry 27
The product is also durable and will last for 100 years and requires no maintenance.
wide
slate, the roofer, Phil Marson, said that he enjoyed using the slate:
It’s more
It’s a Marley Solar Roof System.
You may just see a roof. But by specifying a complete Marley Solar Roof System, you can be sure of a secure and robust solution, that also delivers more desirable, energy efficient homes. It’s more than a roof, it’s building to make a difference.
Knauf Insulation adds to rainscreen range
Knauf Insulation has launched Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab EE, the UK’s first non-combustible rainscreen sheathing insulation with an enhanced water-repellent facing.
The new facing reduces the risk of water damage when the insulation is left exposed to preserve the intended thermal, fire and acoustic performance of the building.
Best practice for installing insulation in rainscreen façades is to use a ‘rolling front’, but a survey of façade contractors by Knauf Insulation suggests that this is only achieved in approximately 50% of projects.
If insulation is left exposed to the elements for too long during construction, it could be damaged, and its performance compromised.
“We designed Rocksilk ® RainScreen Slab EE to give specifiers a solution to the exposure problem,” explained Luke Davies, Product Manager at Knauf Insulation, “Rather than rely on best practice on site, specifiers can now proactively protect building performance by selecting a product engineered for the real world.”
Rocksilk ® RainScreen Slab EE has been extensively tested to deliver proven performance. It is non-combustible, with a Euroclass A2-s1,d0 reaction to fire classification and the black facing provides an aesthetic solution for behind perforated façades.
To further simplify specification and support compliance, Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab EE has been added to the new Rocksilk® RainScreen Cavity Systems range, launched earlier this year. Specifiers will be able to meet challenging fire safety requirements with a complete, tested system that includes the sheathing insulation, fixings and cavity barriers.
Alongside the launch of the new product, Knauf Insulation will be releasing a new CPD on using rainscreen insulation to achieve real-world performance. “Specifiers are under greater pressure than ever, particularly when designing high-risk buildings with rainscreen façades”, said Davies. “This launch is part of our wider
plan to support specifiers with the products, services and resources they need, to have confidence in their insulation choice.”
Knauf Insulation – Enquiry 29
Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab EE in a steel frame with masonry
Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab EE in a light steel frame (LSF), single layer
AIM’s Improved OSCB and WCB ranges meet rainscreen challenges
Significant investment in product development and testing for its Open State Cavity Barrier (OSCB) and new Wall Cavity Barrier (Red Edition) ranges has enhanced their suitability for rainscreen cladding systems, says AIM – Acoustic & Insulation Manufacturing.
Open state cavity barriers and full fill cavity barriers are crucial to fire safety within rainscreen cladding on medium and high-rise buildings. Together they can achieve compartmentation within the void created by the rainscreen cladding. This then provides an effective barrier to the passage of hot smoke and fire behind the cladding system.
The OSCB is installed horizontally to permit free flowing ventilation through the cavity in a vertical plane and the wall cavity barrier is fitted vertically to complete compartment lines.
Digital design and offsite assembly
Metal rainscreen specialist, Spanwall Façades, has delivered its latest cladding project in partnership with Alucraft, which demonstrates the application of MMC and offsite principles to façade design and construction.
Fifteen George’s Quay is a prime commercial building overlooking the River Liffey in Dublin which has been transformed by developers IPUT Real Estate into more than 70,000sqft of highly sustainable, LEED Platinum-rated office space. The new envelope successfully blends stone, metalwork and floor-to-ceiling glazing with panoramic views. The bespoke rainscreen system met the aesthetic vision of architects Burke-Kennedy Doyle, whilst ensuring long-term durability, low maintenance, and high weather performance.
Spanwall – Enquiry 32
AIM’s six OSCBs allow the ventilation necessary within the wall construction to prevent problems of condensation allowing free airflow and drainage with either a 25mm or 44mm air gap. They can fill voids up to 425mm (or greater in particular circumstances).
In the event of a fire, heat activates the OSCBs intumescent strip which expands quickly to close the cavity fully.
They offer either a 60, 90 or 120-minute performance for both integrity and insulation confirmed by testing in accordance with ASFP Technical Guidance Document 19 and to the general principles of BS EN 1363-1:2020.
For use in cavity voids up to 600mm AIM’s new Wall Cavity Barrier (Red Edition) range is
available cut to size or in slab form. Available in three thicknesses, 75mm, 100mm and 125mm, they prevent the passage of heat, flame and smoke within the cavity for 30, 60 or 120-minute fire rating periods tested to BS EN 1366-4:2021. This rating makes these wall cavity barriers suitable for medium to high rise buildings.
AIM – Enquiry 31
TORMAX delivers access solutions to prestigious commercial facility
As part of a major expansion, TORMAX was invited to return to the headquarters of De Soutter Medical Ltd - a decade after installing an automatic curved-sliding door to the main entranceto enhance the facility with four additional automatic door systems.
A newly created main entrance features an impressive semi-circular, curved sliding door, like the initial installation. Two bi-parting sliding doors systems provide side-access to the building. In the warehouse, a double set of curved sliding doors work in tandem to create a D-shaped lobby, where small deliveries can be quickly and easily processed.
All entrances are powered by TORMAX iMotion 2202.A door drives. Uniquely engineered with a motor that features none of the working parts that generally wear out, such as gears or brushes, the iMotion 2202.A delivers exceptional reliability and longevity.
TORMAX worked with sub-contractor, Apic, and the architect, to deliver functional yet aesthetically impressive automatic entrances throughout the facility.
As well as adding a prominent architectural detail to the front of a building, curved-sliding door systems are intensely practical, providing up to 40% more pass-through space than linear sliding doors.
Tormax – Enquiry 33
▸ Timber frame construction
▸ Spandrel panels
▸ Modular build
▸ Rainscreen cladding
▸ Render carrier board
▸ High performance dry lining
▸ Tilebacker
▸ Fire resistant floors and ceilings
▸ Passive fire protection
▸ Steel frame construction
Making housebuilding more efficient
With housebuilders under pressure to meet the government’s ambitious goal of building 1.5 million new homes in five years, they must deliver faster and more efficiently than ever before. Andrew McIntosh of K Rend explains that modern products offer significant time and cost savings compared.
To meet these targets, the government plans to use brownfield land and unlock low-quality green belt land to boost available build areas. However, the challenge remains – how can we build faster without compromising quality? These challenges, combined with thin margins and fixed deadlines, are driving developers toward alternative construction options.
Render products continue to evolve to meet the dual demands of quality and efficiency.
Today’s render systems are more userfriendly and less reliant on highly skilled labour, thanks to manufacturers’ investments in innovation and workforce training.
Machine-applied, quick drying renders are well-suited to large-scale developments, enabling same-day application and scraping, dramatically reducing on-site time.
These innovations reflect an understanding of the practical challenges faced by
applicators and the need for adaptable building solutions.
West Craigs Village, near Edinburgh, one of Scotland’s largest new-build housing developments, demonstrates how render technology can transform the build process. For housebuilder Barratt Homes, quality, aesthetics and efficiency was essential to delivering homes at scale.
K Rend Recommended applicator Gavin Cairns Roughcasting Ltd has experienced the transformative impact of K Rend’s render solution at West Craigs. “We use a range of K Rend products, including K Mono, which has been a game-changer for large volume sites,” said Cairns. “The same-day scrape capability allows us to finish within site hours, keeping projects on track. The technical support and ongoing updates from K Rend’s R&D team have also been invaluable.”
Beyond product innovation, manufacturers such as K Rend provide essential support to housebuilders throughout the construction process. From design consultations to on-site advice and installer training, the manufacturer’s expertise ensures optimal application and performance.
This collaborative approach is a significant advantage for developers navigating the complexities of modern housing projects. >>
“The need for energy-efficient homes has never been greater.”
The future of our planet is at stake. That’s why the homes we build should do everything they can to meet the environmental challenge.
In terms of sustainability, Superglass is a breath of fresh air - their glass mineral wool insulation makes homes and workplaces warmer, quieter and more comfortable, as well as recycling waste and minimising the use of resources - applying ‘climate positive thinking’ to every aspect of their manufacturing and delivery processes. Superglass. Made to make a difference.
superglass.co.uk Discover our brand story as told by Kevin McCloud. Watch Now.
>> Sustainability credentials hit the right note Manchester is known for its rich cultural heritage, but now Co-op Live, the UK’s largest indoor arena, aims to put the city on the world stage for sustainability too. It is designed to be a 100% electrically powered venue and features 6,400m² solar panels as well as air source heat pumps – so a highly efficient building fabric was essential to ensure they operate effectively.
With Knauf Insulation’s St Helens manufacturing plant based just 30 miles down the road, the company was a perfect partner for sub-contractor Lindner Prater, which was responsible for constructing the arena’s 12,000m2 twin roof. Lindner Prater contacted Knauf Insulation’s Specification Team to discuss the project’s insulation requirements.
The design intent was to use a 0.035W/mK lambda mineral wool insulation installed in two layers at a range of depths between 220mm and 440mm within the built-up metal roof. With the tapered void between the deflecting flat slab and the standing seam finish, the product also needed to be manufactured in five thicknesses ranging between 60mm and 220mm.
After reviewing several options with the Lindner Prater team, Knauf Insulation agreed to develop a new glass mineral wool product, FactoryClad Roll 35, specifically for the Co-op Live project.
FactoryClad Roll 35 is a glass mineral wool insulation that is naturally non-combustible with the best possible Euroclass A1 reaction to fire classification.
Because it is made of mineral wool, it also acts as a sound absorbent lining, so can help control the reverberation of internal sound. It comes in five thicknesses between 60 and 220mm and is manufactured at a width of 1,200mm for speed of fitting. It also has a high tear strength which ensures its durability and ease of handling during installation.
Reducing the embodied carbon of its products has long been a priority for Knauf Insulation. Fifteen years ago, it developed ECOSE Technology, its unique bio-based binder that is used in the manufacture of most of its insulation, including FactoryClad Roll 35. It contains no added phenol or
formaldehyde and is less energy-intensive to manufacture than traditional binders.
Products manufactured with ECOSE Technology have been awarded Eurofins ‘Indoor Air Comfort’ Gold. This is a European-wide accreditation for low-VOC products that go beyond the legislated minimum standards and contain no added formaldehyde or phenol. Knauf Insulation’s entire glass mineral wool range is also accredited as Declare 'Red List Free’, which means it doesn’t contain any harmful chemicals on the ‘Red List’.
Knauf Insulation also worked with its partner Euroclad to supply insulated sandwich panels. To support the rainscreen, Euroclad supplied 20,000m2 of Rainspan external wall sandwich panels in 175mm thickness for the building exterior. These panels use a 115kg/m3 density rock mineral wool core manufactured by Knauf Insulation to provide fire, thermal and acoustic performance.
The team at Euroclad also supplied 1,500m² of Rockspan Extra panels, a cost-effective external wall solution, also with a rock mineral wool core made by Knauf Insulation, that uses fixed joint details to enable faster construction. Rockspan panels are suitable for rainscreen construction both for their buildability and for fire performance, with a Euroclass A2-s1,d0 reaction to fire classification.
MERMET Technical Solar Shading Fabrics
MERMET manufacturers of technical solar shading fabrics for internal and external use, helping you achieve your LEED & Breeam goals.
Are you seeking to achieve LEED and Breeam certification?
Did you know SOLAR SHADING is a critical component in achieving this?
Introducing the NEW Robust Detail
E-WM-35, designed
using Superglass Superwhite 34 Blown Insulation
Superglass Insulation, one of the UK’s leading glass mineral wool insulation manufacturers are pleased to announce that their new Robust Detail solution E-WM- 35 has been included in the latest addition of the Robust Details Handbook.
This new detail, developed collaboratively by Superglass and Robust Details, features 100mm aircrete blocks and a fully filled 100mm cavity with Superglass Superwhite 34 blown glass mineral wool insulation, installed by a network of approved contractors. This solution not only helps achieve the acoustic requirements of Part E (England & Wales), but when used in conjunction with Superwhite 34 in external walls, it also provides a single insulation solution onsite that aids in meeting the zero u-value compliance of Part L (England & Wales).
Tony Gordon, Head of Product Management at Superglass, explains: “The building industry is undergoing rapid changes, with the focus now on safety, efficiency and performance. Products and systems fundamental to the design of housebuilding are changing too, enabling the delivery of high-quality, precision engineered buildings for the future.
“The E-WM-35 system comes with a host of benefits that make it an excellent choice for builders seeking compliance, high-speed installation, and rigorous acoustic standards.
“Notably, E-WM-35 is compliant with standard 12.5mm plasterboard (nominal 8 kg/m2 density) and does not require a parge coat. This simplifies the installation process and ensures efficiency on-site.
“One of the standout features of E-WM-35 is its ability to aid zero U-Value compliance through its ‘full-fill solution’, which addresses the issue of party wall thermal bypass. The party wall thermal bypass has long been a challenge in ensuring the efficiency of insulation in separating walls. E-WM-35 offers an effective solution by eliminating this issue, contributing to more energyefficient house builds.
Tony continued: “Incorporating the E-WM-35 solution into housebuilding projects delivers on both time and cost efficiencies. Approved contractors can install the system at high speed, reducing time spent on-site while maintaining the high standards expected in modern construction projects. Another critical advantage of using the E-WM-35 Robust Detail is that it eliminates the need for pre-completion acoustic testing when registered under the Robust Details scheme.
“Superglass’ glass mineral wool insulation provides thermal and acoustic insulation
which helps maintain a comfortable indoor living environment. Superglass products boast a thermal conductivity range of 0.044W/mK – 0.032W/mK, a perfect choice for residential building especially when backed up with testing that confirms Superglass products are deemed non-combustible with a fire classification of Euroclass A1 (the highest possible rating) when tested to BS EN 13501-1 Reaction to Fire.”
Tony concluded: “The introduction of E-WM-35 into the Robust Detail Handbook exemplifies our ongoing commitment to offering innovative, effective, and sustainable insulation solutions, for our customers and end users. E-WM-35 is more than just a robust detail – it represents a step-change towards smarter, faster, and more sustainable building methods.
“Superglass's leadership in the field of insulation is set to transform how we approach building insulation, ensuring safety, sustainability, and superior performance across the board.”
To find out more, please visit www.superglass.co.uk
Superglass - Enquiry 37
Specify passive fire protection with confidence and clarity
Building safety relies on accurate product information. Without it, the risks of misguided specification or substitution, poor installation, inadequate classification, and noncompliance are high. This is especially relevant for passive fire protection, which is a fundamental, but ultimately hidden, part of an external wall system which must be considered from the earliest design stages to ensure a safe and long-lasting building.
What’s more, detailed specifications with robust justifications for the products and approaches chosen are now not only a requirement for projects needing Gateway 2 approval under the Building Safety Act, but also where clients are looking for reassurance that fire safety has been embedded into your plans from the outset.
To support design teams in collating the rich technical data they need to ensure the best choices are made for their projects, Siderise has launched a suite of new digital application-specific Specification Packs.
With versions available for curtain wall, rainscreen, masonry, and precast and
sealed architectural wall systems, each pack concisely summarises all the relevant product information for the designated application. They provide quick and convenient access to crucial tools and information sources, including technical datasheets, third-party certifications, standard detail drawings, EPDs, BIM objects, specification information and clauses. Additionally, by including links to the latest information, users can be assured that they are working with the most up-to-date data and certifications, reducing the risks associated with holding outdated material.
In addition to valued data formats needed throughout the early selection process, the Packs also highlight the enhanced
support services available from Siderise at different project stages. This includes support with NBS Chorus specifications as a licenced NBS Specification Writing Partner, as well as information on Siderise’s bespoke testing capacity via its UKAS ISO 17025 accredited Innovation Centre. It also contains links to book CPD seminars and product training, access learning resources and more— enabling both you and your project partners to enhance your practical knowledge of passive fire protection in the building envelope.
For more information, visit Specification Packs at www.siderise.com
Siderise – Enquiry 38
Wetherby Wall Systems: Guiding the Industry Through Gateway 2 Compliance
As the construction sector adapts to the UK's Building Safety Act 2022, Wetherby Wall Systems, part of the ROCKWOOL Group, is positioned to support industry professionals in navigating the new regulatory landscape. The Act introduces stringent safety protocols, notably the three "gateways" for high-risk buildings, with Gateway 2 focusing on pre-construction design and safety approvals.
Recognising the challenges these regulations present, Wetherby Wall Systems provides comprehensive guidance to ensure compliance and streamline project progression. The company offers a step-by-step guide to the Building Safety
Act and Gateway 2, detailing the necessary documentation, safety case requirements, and the roles and responsibilities of duty holders during the design and construction phases. In addition to these informative resources, Wetherby Wall Systems supplies a range of A1
New school offers a lesson in modern building practices
The new Junior School for the Girls Day School Trust Notting Hill & Ealing High School designed by Architects Hawkins\Brown is a true lesson in sustainability.
Rated BREEAM Excellent, the school serves as a model of combining best modern building practices with academic excellence.
The school worked closely with Hawkins\ Brown and were keen the building represented an opportunity to empower the students. Anderson Acoustics were appointed to provide acoustic advice for the redevelopment of the site which included large, pitched roofs and large expanses of windows and hard surfaces.
Part of their solution was to specify Troldtekt’s wood wool panelling across many areas to control the acoustics in the building and provide a quiet environment for learning. The result is so effective that the spaces are now used during exams.
This is a perfect example of how Troldtekt’s wood wool acoustic panels can help transform educational spaces. The panels are available in a variety of different structures and colours, combining optimal sound absorption with an awardwinning design. The Troldtekt range has a minimum expected life cycle of 50 years coupled with excellent resistance to humidity and tested to meet ball impact standards.
non-combustible systems and ROCKWOOL stone wool insulation solutions designed to meet the highest safety standards mandated by the new legislation. A technical support team is available to assist with specification requests, application guides, and critical detailing to facilitate compliance with Gateway 2 requirements.
Understanding the complexities introduced by the Building Safety Act, Wetherby Wall Systems remains committed to partnering with developers, architects, and contractors to navigate these changes effectively. Through superior product quality, flexible partnerships, and over 40 years of industry leadership in the external wall insulation sector, the company aims to contribute to a safer built environment.
For more information on how Wetherby Wall Systems can assist with projects, contact gateway2@wbs-ltd.co.uk or call Wetherby’s Façade Manager Steve Kilbride on 07874 399264.
Wetherby Wall Systems – Enquiry 39
Troldtekt wood wool acoustic panels are manufactured using wood from certified forests and can contribute positively to a building’s BREEAM, WELL or LEED points.
The range is available in various sizes and structures, from extreme fine to fine. They can be supplied as natural wood, unpainted FUTURECEM™ offering a reduced carbon footprint and finished in almost any RAL or NCS colour.
Samples, case studies and technical guidance are available from www.troldtekt.co.uk or see our product listings on NBS (https://bit.ly/3vxoTfq) or Material Bank (www.materialbank.eu).
Troldtekt – Enquiry 40
Photo Jack Hobhouse
Ecological Building Systems releases revolutionary new natural insulation
Ecological Building Systems has introduced an exciting new type of sustainable insulation to the UK and Ireland.
Gramitherm is the first insulation to be produced from grass, which is sourced from public parks and grass verges, combined with recycled jute fibres, plus a recycled polyester binder, to produce one of the most sustainable forms of insulation on the market and is exclusively available from Ecological Building Systems in the UK and Ireland.
Resistant to mould, Gramitherm has natural hygroscopic properties which helps to regulate humidity within the building envelope and enhance breathability.
The innovative new product has secured an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) which demonstrates that 1kg of Gramitherm sequesters 1.5kg of CO2 , equivalent post production making it a highly efficient and eco-friendly insulation choice.
As well as an EPD, Gramitherm holds European Technical Approval confirming compliance with relevant standards and its sustainability credentials and low environmental impact. As a natural, sustainable product, Gramitherm is carbon negative (cradle to gate) and has achieved A+ ratings in VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) emission tests. Highly sustainable, each hectare of grass can produce 200m3 of insulation. Containing over 90% bio-based content, Gramitherm materials are sourced
from within 300km of the manufacturer, therefore reducing transport emissions and lowering its carbon footprint. The production process is also highly sustainable, utilising heat from biogas, a by-product of grass fermentation, for drying.
Niall Crosson, Technical Director at Ecological Building Systems, explains: “Natural insulation materials are becoming increasingly popular and there’s nothing quite like Gramitherm on the market. It has impressive environmental credentials, plus strong thermal and acoustic performance to match.”
Ecological Building Systems – Enquiry 41
Recycling centre keeps open during refurb thanks to HMG Paints
A north Devon environmental and recycling centre has been able to keep functioning because a revolutionary process from HMG Paints for treating rust and lead contamination has enabled a problem to be sorted without having to shut down the facility.
Previously painted structural steel in part of the Brynsworthy Environment Centre and Waste Management Facility, near Barnstaple, was showing signs of light rust contamination. Tests also revealed lead to be present in previously applied coatings.
Interpon helps PowderTek to double in size
A partnership between the Interpon team at AkzoNobel and PowderTek, a powder coater in Northern India, is helping to provide architects with colors and styles to enhance their creations and provide the warranties to protect their buildings for years to come.
PowderTek chose to work exclusively with Interpon to coat the aluminum facades, windows, doors and similar architectural products that feature in many Bollywood star bungalows and homes throughout the region. As well as using Interpon D Futura, Anodic and Stone Effect powder coatings, PowderTek is also the first business in the region to use 100% Interpon D STF powder and basecoat.
Interpon – Enquiry 44
Exeter-based contractor Isca Decorating Company received detailed technical advice from HMG Paints who manufacture a suite of products able to deal with just such an issue. The products for the job were supplied by decorators’ merchants Rabart from their Plymouth store.
The first task was a thorough clean and degrease of the existing substrate in the steel structure. A first degreasing was carried out using a good quality waterbased foaming degreaser and this was followed up with an application of HMG’s solvent degreaser 2801.
The next step was to treat the areas showing rust with HMG Ferrozinc Rust Convertor which is brushed on as a white coating and then turns navy/ black indicating that the rust has been completely neutralised. Lead contaminated areas to be overpainted were then primed
with HMG’s BDX Anti Corrosive Primer and then a topcoat of HMG C71 Speedline which gives a tough, hardwearing finish and is available in a comprehensive range of colours.
HMG Paints – Enquiry 43
Valspar launches ‘BetterTub’ recycling initiative
Valspar has launched a premium paint tub that provides a greener way to decorate the home, containing at least 40% recycled plastic.
In collaboration with Valspar’s UK packaging partner, Berry Global, the paint and interiors brand has introduced the ‘BetterTub’. This innovative packaging utilises the ‘Berry Global CleanStream®’ recycling process, which is a closed-loop system that transforms household polypropylene waste into highquality packaging.
This groundbreaking approach goes beyond traditional mechanical recycling methods. It involves carefully washing, sorting, and separating plastic waste before it is recycled and repurposed. The result is a recycled plastic that is lower in carbon but higher in purity and quality, making it ideal for the Valspar Premium range products.
The tubs will be clearly identified with a ‘BetterTub’ logo on paint cans, meaning that at least 40% of the plastic in the tub has gone through this advanced recycling process and comes from UK households.
In addition to this, Valspar has also pledged to continuously increase the percentage of recycled plastic in its tubs in the future, to create even greener products.
Lucy Steele, Senior Brand Manager at Valspar, said: “When you choose products from the Valspar Premium range, you make a better choice not just for your interiors but for the planet as well.”
Valspar – Enquiry 45
Cordek expands portfolio with new engineered wood capabilities
Cordek has expanded and diversified its offer, after acquiring the assets of Cambian Engineering Solutions.
The strategic move also sees members from the engineered wood specialist join together with the Cordek team, bringing with them decades of experience in delivering unique and innovative wood structures.
Cordek is well known for its bespoke Expanded Polystyrene (EPS), model board and Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) Infrastructure and Superstructure formwork, as well as patterns and moulds for off-site construction.
Now, with the addition of engineered wood to its portfolio, Cordek can deliver integrated and optimised solutions, utilising the best possible materials for every application.
This will also provide customers with the benefits of a single source of supply for bespoke formwork, patterns and moulds as well as finished architectural features in engineered wood.
The acquisition will also complement and strengthen Cordek’s existing Computer Aided Design (CAD) and Computer Aided Manufacture (CAM) capabilities to efficiently deliver everything from simple components to complex assemblies, based on the requirements of the project.
Piers Chapman, Managing Director at Cambian Engineering Solutions, who has joined Cordek as Head of Design said: “I am delighted to be working with Cordek.
“Through our combined specialisms and capabilities, we are now ideally positioned in the market to take on more complex and large-scale projects.”
Stephen Hearn, Managing Director at Cordek added: “For over 40 years we have supported construction projects with a variety of innovative solutions. More recently, the demands for bespoke formwork and patterns and moulds have grown in scale and complexity. As such, bringing the technical knowledge and machinery from Cambian Engineering Solutions into Cordek expands and enhances our offer. We are delighted to welcome our new colleagues and evolve the business together.”
For more information visit www.cordek.com
Cordek – Enquiry 46
A. Proctor Group appoints new finance director
The A. Proctor Group has welcomed Teresa Thomson to the position of Finance Director. In doing so, the company is also saying farewell to Paul Roy, who retires from the role in March after more than 32 years of service.
Teresa is a professionally qualified accountant and has held a Director position for more than 15 years. Alongside managing monthly accounts processes, and providing accurate, trusted information and analysis, she is experienced in acquisitions, financial controls and business strategy. Keira Proctor, Managing Director, said: “She will be an asset to the company as we continue our growth in the years to come.”
A. Proctor Group – Enquiry 47
A simple touch
Reliable everyday technology from Garador makes opening and closing a garage door simpler than ever.
There’s no need to pull out a smartphone or remote to operate your garage door. Simply place your finger on the Garador scanner. As Britain’s leading garage door manufacturer, Garador provides finger scanners that offer quick and easy functionality plus a high level of security, ensuring total confidence and peace of mind. The compact, attractive scanner box is quick and easy to install next to a Garador garage door and the scanners run on just four AAA batteries, eliminating the need for complex wiring.
Garador – Enquiry 48
Saniflo’s Saniplus UP facilitates garden retreat
Thanks to a Saniplus UP from Saniflo, a new garden retreat in the capital has been elevated to a new level of comfort and convenience. The solution, expertly chosen by former DJ and TV presenter Sam Pinkham, owner of Shack Cabins, for one of his customers, facilitated the luxury of a fully functional WC in a stylish garden office and leisure space. The quiet Saniplus UP macerator system provided the ideal solution, efficiently pumping waste to the main soil stack. Installed discreetly behind a demountable panel, the unit is hidden yet accessible for maintenance. It is designed for use with a full bathroom suite.
Saniflo – Enquiry 49
Senior takes the lead on sustainability with new appointment
Senior Architectural Systems has appointed Luke Osborne to the newly created role of UK sustainability lead.
Luke brings with him a wealth of industry experience, having worked with a number of major building products manufacturers to help establish and develop environmental initiatives, sustainability policies, and reliable carbon data sources.
In his new role, Luke will advance the existing work Senior has been doing to reduce the environmental impact of its business operations, and provide its customers with accurate calculations relating to embodied and operational carbon. Key to this will be the development of environmental product declaration (EPD) documents across Senior’s extensive range of aluminium windows, doors, and curtain wall systems, as well as a robust roadmap to support Senior’s net zero, biodiversity, and waste reduction targets.
can also benefit from the company’s investment in sustainability.
Luke will work closely with Senior’s architectural advisory team to support the company’s main contractors and specification partners, as well as ensuring that its network of fabricators and installers
Mixing and matching hardware with Croft
Luke Osborne, said: “I am looking forward to working with both colleagues and customers to ensure that the work we are doing really makes a difference in terms of reducing our own carbon footprint, supporting supply-chain targets, and improving the standards for sustainability across the fenestration sector.”
Senior Architectural Systems – Enquiry 50
Croft offers a wide variety of styles, finishes, and textures, allowing customers to transform spaces effortlessly through thoughtfully combined hardware.
Unique yet contemporary, mixing different hardware within a space adds layers and texture, creating a timeless design statement on cabinets and doors.
Cabinet hardware may be small, but it has a significant impact, allowing individuals to showcase their unique style. For a luxurious, contemporary look, Croft’s Brooklands Collection in Light Antique Brass comprises a versatile range of knobs, handles, and pulls. Perfect for upgrading cabinetry and doors, this collection combines functionality with timeless elegance.
For a more soft, sleek and cohesive appeal, pair different hardware in a darker finish such as Imitation Bronze Unlacquered, with light cream cabinetry for a subtle yet impactful contrast. The use of different hardware in the kitchen adds depth whilst allowing the hardware to stand out as a unique design statement against the light palette.
Another popular approach is mixing hardware metals to create a bold and characterful design. Pair complementary finishes like Aged Brass and Distressed Antique Brass for an elegant contrast that adds texture while maintaining a harmonious and cohesive feel in an interior scheme.
Tata Steel’s Shotton Works, the home of Colorcoat® pre-finished steel, has achieved The Wildlife Trusts’ Biodiversity Benchmark for land management, as part of its wider sustainability commitment.
This makes the site based in North Wales the largest industrial manufacturing site in Wales to currently hold the nationally recognised standard for commitment to biodiversity and responsible land management.
Launched in 2022, Tata Steel’s Shotton sustainability commitment set out a long-term strategy focussing on four key pillars: reducing the site’s carbon footprint; developing products that enable sustainable construction; biodiversity; and maximising material efficiency and achieving zero onsite waste. A key ambition for the biodiversity element was for Shotton Works to achieve The Wildlife Trusts’ Biodiversity Benchmark and demonstrate how the site protects and expands the biodiversity that co-exists on the industrial manufacturing site.
Tata Steel achieved the standard by integrating the biodiversity commitment throughout its processes and wider sustainability strategy, including setting out a clear biodiversity policy with performance indicators to measure progress, clear action plans to deliver against and a robust integrated management system for the Shotton site.
The site has also regularly engaged with external partners, with external ecological surveys conducted.
Tata Steel – Enquiry 52
Croft – Enquiry
UK ventilation manufacturer
Domus Ventilation is proud to announce that its industry leading ventilation ducting will now be manufactured primarily from recycled plastic.
The company already uses 100% recycalate on its rectangular ducting and over 95% of its fittings use 100% High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS) which comes from post-consumer recycled plastic. As part of the Genuit group, which has committed to have 62% of its ducting source material come from recycled plastics by 2025 where at all feasible, Domus Ventilation has now progressed to manufacturing its entire ducting range primarily from recycled plastic.
This will make Domus Ventilation ducting one of the lowest carbon choices on the market, without any detrimental impact on the quality of the product that Domus ducting is renowned for.
Domus Ventilation Product Manager, Paul Williams, said: “As a manufacturer in the building sector, we fully accept our responsibilities in regards to this.
“Using plastic that is destined for landfill, recycling it, and using it in our ducting is just one way in which we are making our products – and our manufacturing - more sustainable.
“One aspect I would like to reassure customers on is the quality of our ducting, which will not be affected by this.”
Domus Ventilation – Enquiry 53
The compact Stratton boiler cascade from Hamworthy
Hamworthy Heating include in their comprehensive product range the Stratton mk3 wall-hung condensing boiler.
When installed on a Hamworthy low height frame and header kit, outputs from 4070kW offer the most compact cascade configuration available on the market.
Considerably smaller than other well-known manufacturers' models, Stratton mk3 boilers feature a compact footprint, with models up to 70kW measuring only 487w x 577d x 764h. Moreover, when fitted to a Hamworthy Heating low-height frame and header kit,
Stratton mk3 boilers benefit from a height of only 1474mm from the floor to the top of the boiler flue connection. These dimensions make a Stratton mk3 cascade the perfect solution for plantrooms where available height and footprint space is limited. Offering a compact solution with outstanding efficiency, installing a Stratton cascade also provides several benefits over using one large boiler.
By allowing multiple boilers to work together for an efficient and flexible solution, a Stratton mk3 cascade also offers added protection against breakdown and system failure.
Kidde launches wireless
Kidde Safety Europe, a leading manufacturer of residential fire safety equipment, is proud to announce the launch of its innovative CV9101 Fire Alarm Controller, designed to simplify the regular testing and maintenance of its Cavius family of wireless alarms.
This user-friendly controller eliminates the need for physical access to alarms, making fire safety more accessible than ever before.
The CV9101 Fire Alarm Controller allows homeowners to remotely test and silence their Cavius wireless alarms using a convenient Test/Hush button.
This advancement is particularly beneficial for elderly or disabled individuals who may struggle to access alarms, as well as for properties where physical access is challenging, such as alarms installed in high ceilings or non-occupied loft spaces.
When asked to specify a space-saving and reliable heating system to a customer, the features of the Stratton mk3 were a big selling point to Tucker Mechanical and Electrical Building Services.
Hamworthy Heating – Enquiry 54
Compliance with fire safety standards is a key benefit of the CV9101. It aligns with the recommendations set out in BS 5839-6:2019, the ‘Code of Practice for the Design, Installation, Commissioning and Maintenance of Fire Detection and Fire Alarm Systems in Domestic Premises.’
This standard highlights the importance of remote testing capabilities for smoke alarms installed in non-occupied lofts containing solar PV equipment, enhancing safety while eliminating the need for physical access to hard-toreach areas.
For more information about the CV9101 Fire Alarm Controller and Kidde’s full range of fire safety solutions, visit: www.kidde.com/fire-safety/en/uk/
Kidde – Enquiry 55
PYRAN® S
For fire resistance and protection of people and property
Now available for UK manufacture
Multifunctionality in fire protection
PYRAN® S is a pre-stressed, monolithic borosilicate single pane safety glass in accordance with EN 13024-1.
As a component in fire-resistant glazing that meets the requirements of resistance classes E 30, E 60, E 90 and E 120, it has proven its outstanding optical and mechanical characteristics over the years in a wide variety of buildings.
Areas of application
PYRAN® has been internationally approved and ideally suited for:
• Facades
• Partition walls
• Skylights and rooflights
• Doors
• Roofs
• Smoke screens
• lift door glazing
• lift shaft glazing
Facts
• Higher ability to withstand temperature differentials: In comparison to soda-lime glass, tempered borosilicate glass can better withstand temperature differentials and can therefore be glazed with normal edge covers (20±2 mm).
• Higher softening temperature: Because the glass is selfsupporting for more than 30 minutes, large panes and simple frame constructions are now possible.
• Higher viscosity: The glass flow rate is low due to the high viscosity and durability of borosilicate glass, so with more edge cover, greater fire resistance times in excess of 90 minutes can be achieved.
• NiS crystals do not form: Due to the chemical composition of borosilicate glass, nickel sulphide crystals cannot form. Spontaneous glass fracture due to embedded NiS crystals cannot happen with PYRAN®.
Further information is available from our sales and technical offices or visit www.firmanglass.com
