i-Build July 2020

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FOCUS:

LINEAR

&

LONG-FORMAT

BRICKS

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STAMP

DUTY

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CUSTOM-BUILDING COVER STORY

WHY STANDING SEAM?

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J U LY 20 - I S S U E 72

www.crossplatformmedia.co.uk

Discover the performance and aesthetic benefits of pre-finished steel standing seam roofing and wall cladding systems

CASE STUDIES

CASE STUDIES

INSPIRATION

MATERIALS

ADVISORY

AN IRISH CONCRETE GEM

YOUR OWN CONCRETE JUNGLE

WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY

GRANDEUR AT GRAVEN HILL

The O'Leary's sharpangled home has been crafted from poured concrete and limestone

Get the industrial concrete look with smaller, lower-priced designs & accessories

Professional advice on enhancing window performance in different types of buildings

Why custombuilding is the way forward in these changing times

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d ” an me lp ho he t wn ge o r to ou r ce y to la ing isi l p ld V ia ui C nt f b BR se el S es n s N he o “T ice v

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Open Tuesday to Sunday 10:00-17:30 FREE entry!

The UK’s ONLY permanent visitor centre for self builders, custom builders and renovators

J16, M4 Swindon

The National Self Build & Renovation Centre Self build courses Over 250 exhibitors Advice from experts

Eco & design workshops Self build shows with free seminars Guided educational tours

A unique and inspiring resource, the NSBRC is here to help provide you with the knowledge and support you need during your homebuilding project.

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The home of Self Build Custom Build & Renovation

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E

ditor's Welcome

EDITORIAL: Rebecca Kemp

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I-BUILD JULY 2020

I

t's come to light over recent weeks, that many are unsatisfied with their current homes. Now, for those who have recently moved into their newly built or renovated homes and made alterations to their property, this obviously won’t be the case. Home renovations and self-building are allowing the nation to mould homes around everyday needs.

As we develop through more advanced self-building and home renovating, we’re paying more attention to detail with regards to our habits and what makes our homes convenient for modern living. And, it’s this tailored concept that’s appealing to other homeowners across the UK. Self-building and home renovating has generated a whole new breed of house-hunters who are looking at getting more out homeownership. And, as a result, the housing market is now striving to keep up with these madeto-order demands. One instance is Graven Hill in Bicester. The UK’s largest custom- and self-build community, this site has switched on to needs sought by soon-to-be homeowners and changed the property search scape for the better with custom-build homes. In this issue, we talk to Karen

Curtin, Managing Director of Graven Hill, about how people’s priorities and property requirements are changing.

Turn to page 16 to read the full article.

Elsewhere, for home builders who have just received planning permission, we have also talked to Laurence Holder, Head of Octagon Bespoke – a company that designs, builds and extensively renovates luxury homes in London and the Home Counties. Here, he offers advice on how you can prepare for a home-building project. Turn to page 12 to read his top tips.

Last but by no means least, this month we’ve travelled to the Star Wars shooting ground of Cork, Ireland, where the O’Leary family built a single-storey architectural statement 10 years ago. Here, we find out – a decade on – how the project was conceived and take a tour around the stunning retreat. Turn to page 18 to have a look around.

Rebecca Rebecca Kemp Editor @ibuildmagazine

Cover story:

Colorcoat Urban explores the performance and aesthetic benefits of pre-finished steel standing seam roofing and wall cladding systems.

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ACHIEVING THERMAL PERFORMANCE How Recticel’s ultra-thin vacuum insulation solution helped achieve U-value targets 3

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ECO-FRIENDLY HEATING Why choose renewable underfloor heating with an open-loop ground source system?

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July 2020 ADVISORY

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Viewpoint

Lockdown has caused us to spend more time at home than ever before, which has led to many homeowners evaluating their living spaces.

This month, we have talked to Laurence Holder, Head of Octagon Bespoke, for his top tips on planning a luxury home-building project.

Contracts & Legalities

In this article, Patrick Cannon, one of the UK’s leading Tax Barristers, explains why some renovation projects may not be required to pay stamp duty. Find out if you can benefit from stamp duty relief.

Custom Building

This month, we have talked to Karen Curtin, Managing Director of Graven Hill – the UK’s largest self- and custombuild community – about how custom-building is the way forward in these changing times. Here, she gives us an insight into the biodiversity and biophilia at the Bicester site.

MATERIALS

Roofing

Struggling with materials and design styles for your roof or walls? Here, Amanda Hinks-Edwards, Business Manager at Colorcoat Urban, explores the performance and aesthetic benefits of pre-finished steel standing seam roofing and wall cladding systems for your project.

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INSPIRATION

I-DEAS

I-Build:

Passivhaus Looking for top tips for a more environmentallyfriendly self-build home?

We’ve talked to Rupert Kazlauciunas from Zehnder Group UK for his five steps to a more sustainable selfbuild eco-home.

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Desired Designs:

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Desired Designs:

I-DIY:

Brickwork & Blockwork This month, i-Build speaks to Chris Stanley, Housing Manager at the Concrete Block Association (CBA), who discusses his experience of building his own home and offers valuable advice to anyone embarking on a self-build project.

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I-nterior:

Ironmongery With an abundance of ironmongery products on the market, it can often be a challenge choosing the right pieces that suit your home.

Here, i-Build has spoken to Ironmongery Direct and SEH BAC for their tips on choosing hardware for your windows and doors.

CASE STUDIES

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Impressive Innovation

Meticulously designed by award-winning Architect Niall McLaughlin, Skyros is a modern-day masterpiece in Schull. The home has been crafted from poured concrete and clad entirely in Irish Kilkenny limestone.

Here, i-Build talks to the homeowners, the O’Leary family, about their project.

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Create Your Own Concrete Jungle Get the industrial concrete look with smaller, lower-priced items with i-Build’s handpicked interior accessories.

Practically Purple in Every Way Great for a teenager’s bedroom or even to add a touch of millennial living to your indoor spaces, these purple, Parma Violet(esque) accessories are bound to brighten up any environment.

Style Guide:

Long-Format and Linear Bricks Self-builders and home renovators turn to bricks and mortar for a traditional external (and sometimes internal) aesthetic; however, if you’re looking for a classic look with a somewhat modernised quality, linear and long-format bricks are an excellent option for home-building projects.

Flooring :

This month, we have talked to Ben Bryden, Sales and Marketing Director at RAK Ceramics, to find out the latest trends in porcelain tile flooring for home renovation and self-build projects.

NEWS / PRODUCT GUIDE

Product Guide

I-Build rounds up the latest innovative products in the marketplace, designed with your self-build in mind.

Doors & Windows

Are you struggling with window specification for your self-build or home renovation project? In this article, Selectaglaze looks at enhancing window performance in different types of buildings.

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I-B U I L D/ J U L/20

DESIRED DESIGNS

esired esigns

©THE FIND STORE

CREATE YOUR OWN CONCRETE JUNGLE It's made its way from construction sites to our living spaces, and many self-builders and home renovators have long been craving its industrial aesthetics for their own home. The concrete trend's taken over residential interiors, and it appears the style's not budging.

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hether you're a self-builder, home renovator, DIYer, or simply looking to give your home a minor makeover, everyone can appreciate the beauty of concrete. There is something truly alluring about its rustic charm and seemingly perfect imperfections. So much so it's captivating homeowners across the globe with many seeking concrete home accessories, floor- and wallcoverings and considering construction with the material. With clean

I-B U I L D/ J U L/20

YOURS TO BUY

and contemporary lines that draw us in, on-trend grey tones and unique characteristics, what reason is there not to love the stuff?

Well, the cost may be one.

Such sought-after interior and exterior pieces certainly come with a high price tag.

So, if you're trying to build on a budget, this style may not be for you. However, there are certainly ways to incorporate the trend into your interior on a smaller scale for a lower-priced industrial aesthetic. Here are a few pieces we've picked.

1. Pluto deco-style wall lamp, £69, Swoon Editions

6. Concrete finish owl figurine, POA, Mineheart

2. Faux concrete chamfered edge fire pit, POA, VonHaus

7. Milton round concrete garden stool, £95, Habitat

3. Rustic concrete vase, £98, THE FIND STORE

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8. LED lamp, €14.95, Monsterzeug

4. Angelo raised hands concrete planter, £22, Artisanti

9. Pluto industrial-style wall lamp in concrete, £69, Swoon Editions

5. Grey square industrial concrete-style occasional table, £114.95, Melody Maison

10. Concrete desk organiser, €30, einrichten-design.de

DESIRED DESIGNS

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YOURS TO BUY

1. Mini 007: St Peter's Seminary, £25 2. Mini 014: Arlington House, £25

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OUR BRAND PICK

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3. Mini 018: Glasgow College of Building & Printing, £25 4. Mini 017: Trellick Tower, £25

pace play

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Spaceplay is an independent design company run by two architectural designers, who design and create 3D artwork based on famous (and more often, infamous) buildings. The brand is particularly interested in the sculptural quality of Brutalism. Laser cutting and 3D printing technologies are used to create artwork in its Birmingham-based studio. These include 3D wooden reliefs, 3D cast sculptures and card game packs, but the company's probably best known for its Concrete Minis collection, which are accurate 5cm³ 3D sculptures of a range of iconic UK Brutalist buildings. www.space-play.co.uk

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HOT PRODUCT

Concrete timepieces Once you've got your envelope complete and having spent day upon day, hour upon hour on-site, it's often a challenge to decorate your walls.

Statement clocks are an excellent choice for nooks and crannies with that "missing something".

YOURS TO BUY

1. Zuiver concrete pendulum clock, £49, Cuckooland

3. Quinn concrete round wall clock, grey, £40, Cult Furniture

2. IStime large concrete wall clock, $167.90, The Design Gift Shop

4. Life in progress clock, £99, Lime Lace

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TOP TIP

While concrete is longlasting and durable, there's still an element of maintenance involved, and installation can often be tricky. If you're looking for a more straightforward solution, why not try concrete-effect alternatives? Options such as easy-to-clean porcelain flooring provide aesthetically pleasing spaces with low maintenance and longevity.

I-B U I L D/ J U L/20

DESIRED DESIGNS

esired esigns

©Carpetright

PRACTICALLY PURPLE IN EVERY WAY Great for a teenager's bedroom or even to add a touch of millennial living to your indoor spaces, these purple, Parma Violet(esque) accessories are bound to brighten up any space.

Purple gestures

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Peaceful in purple

Potted purple

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The Ivy bed is the perfect

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avoid a watering schedule.

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Purple in print

Purple slogans

– does anything else say

slogan rug, 'Keep Calm

Palm trees and pink skies

The classic British

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and Carry On' is block

like the Palm Boulevard

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print? Capturing the

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Modern Art A stunning balance of light and shade, deft brushstrokes, a perfect rendition of its subject – surely the work of an old master.

The paintings aren’t bad either.

Hand-finished with more tonal variation than any other Millboard decking colour, new Antique Oak recreates the attractive, historic look of aged flooring, while being engineered for the future. It’s slip-resistant, won’t warp or rot and retains its looks for years to come – without restoration.

Antique Oak. The art of outdoor design.

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See the real thing. Request a sample at: millboard.co.uk

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I-B U I L D/ J U L/20

DESIRED DESIGNS

02

01 ŠDanny Willems

03

Long-format and linear bricks Self-builders and home renovators turn to bricks and mortar for a traditional external (and sometimes internal) aesthetic; however, if you're looking for a classic look with a somewhat modernised quality, linear and long-format bricks are an excellent option for home-building projects. With a longer and leaner appearance than the standard UK brick format, this style can make your home stick out from the crowd. It's become increasingly popular over the past few years and presents you with an opportunity to make a real clean-lined statement with your build – both inside and out. One single brick usually equates to the length of two standard format styles, meaning you'll receive a more seamless appeal when using long-format and linear bricks as a building material.

There is a range of versions available on the marketplace.

Here, i-Build has listed a small handful of options.

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06 1. www.randerstegl.com 2. www.ibstockbrick.co.uk 4. www.wienerberger.co.uk 5. www.uk-brick.com

I-B U I L D/ J U L/20

04

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3. www.uk-brick.com 6. www.uk-brick.com

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I-B U I L D/ J U L/20

VIEWPOINT

Viewpoint

How to prepare for a home project Spending more time at home can make you consider how well your home currently suits your family and lifestyle. In fact, a survey published by MyJobQuote found that some 71% of us are looking to complete a home project whilst in lockdown, suggesting that the appetite for home renovations is in surge.

L aurence Holder is Head of Octagon's bespoke division, the luxury house-builder’s dedicated department for designing, building and extensively renovating entirely unique, one-off houses in collaboration with its clients. Octagon is an industry leader in highend property, with over 40 years' experience building the very best in British housing.

P

erhaps what was once a playroom could now be better served as a study, and a double garage could be put to use as separate accommodation for independent teenagers or parents-in-law that may one day move in.

Laurence Holder, Head of Octagon Bespoke – which designs, builds and extensively renovates luxury homes in London and the Home Counties – shares his top tips for how you can start planning a home project – whether that’s building from scratch, or transforming your current home to better suit your needs.

Research architects and designers

Evaluate your needs

Look into planning permission

Whether your children have grown up and you could do with a bigger kitchen for mealtimes, or you are coming up to retirement age and need to make your townhouse more accessible, working out what you need from your property is a natural starting point.

Now is a good time to have conversations with your family, discussing and exploring what your priorities are – and evaluating how you really use your home on a day-to-day basis.

I-B U I L D/ J U L/20

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Choosing who will deliver your project is one of the most important decisions in any home renovation or self-build project. Reputation, reliability, build quality and business longevity are all worth considering.

Similarly, look at a developer’s portfolio of work. It’s important to see if you like their range of design interpretations and whether they have had experience delivering similar projects. Some developers may be able to deliver a wide range of styles, whilst others may focus or specialise in one type of build.

What may start as a small project may grow into something much larger, and you may well continue to use the same suppliers for many years to come, so picking the right team is crucial.

While; of course, not the case for a new-build home, not all renovations and extensions require planning permission – a number of home improvements fall under Permitted Development (PD). Have a look at your local council website to explore their policies, as this can affect the timelines of any project.

For larger works, or if you’re renovating a listed property, working with an experienced architect who’s familiar with your neighbourhood could save both time and money. They will likely understand the local requirements – what the local authority planning department are likely to sign off, and what they will say no to.

VIEWPOINT

Investigate potential plots

If you’re looking to start a project from scratch, then searching for a plot to build on is a good place to start, unless you’re; of course, demolishing your current home. Finding a plot, which usually includes buying the existing dwelling on it, can be difficult to do as a private individual. Typically, estate agents and developers will work in partnership to bring plot opportunities to the market.

Sometimes the old-fashioned ways are pretty effective. If you have fallen in love with a particular road or hamlet, do a direct mail drop into people’s letterboxes – draft a nice letter expressing your interest should they ever decide to sell up.

The advantages of a private (chain-free) transaction with no agent’s fees can be very alluring to both buyer and seller.

The alternative is via the builder/developer you want to build your made-to-measure home, who could well have acquired a plot already that would meet your requirements, or have the ideal plot already on their books.

Start conversations

Though visits have to be carefully managed at present, that doesn’t mean you can’t reach out to companies you may want to work with, and it could be advantageous to have a head start with planning once face-to-face meetings can recommence.

Suppliers may well be able to provide approximate costs per square metre, or provide introductions to specialist contractors, should your plans include a swimming pool, home cinema or other specialist installations.

One of the most important factors in a home project is building a positive, trusting relationship with those managing your project – a personal relationship makes a big difference and can make the whole process run much smoother from start to finish.

Feeling inspired about your next project? Octagon Bespoke undertakes projects from £1m. For more information, visit the company’s website.

www.octagonbespoke.co.uk

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I-B U I L D/ J U L/20

CONTRACTS & LEGALITIES

Contracts When is stamp duty not applicable Legalities on a renovation project?

Patrick Cannon, one of the UK’s leading Tax Barristers, explains why some renovation projects may not be required to pay stamp duty.

P atrick Cannon is one of the UK’s leading Tax Barristers

B

uying and renovating a property is, clearly, a multifaceted transaction.

With solicitors to chase, surveyors to organise and mortgage lenders to manage – and that’s before the renovations begin – it is easy to overlook the area of stamp duty relief.

Renovators sometimes overpay stamp duty because their conveyancers either don’t have the information they need, or they wrongly decide that relief cannot be claimed.

Conveyancers, on the whole, take a conservative view.

The main types are: Second homes

Stamp duty is higher for residential properties, but the rules are so complex that many conveyancers and advisers fail to understand them properly. Some think that the 3% additional rates are payable when they are not. In other instances, they fail to factor in multiple dwellings relief, which can substantially lower the overall stamp duty charge.

Mixed-use properties

Those who renovate a mixed-use property – i.e. both residential and nonresidential – are eligible to pay lower rates of stamp duty, but the definition of what is a mixed-use property is currently a matter of debate with HMRC. There are several cases currently before the tax tribunal awaiting a clearer definition.

Multiple dwellings relief

Multiple dwellings relief is worth considering for buyers who purchase a property containing more than one self-contained unit, such as one or more annexes within the house – or self-contained accommodation in outbuildings on the property.

I-B U I L D/ J U L/20

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How can renovators find out if they’re eligible to reclaim?

Renovators should check the details of a purchase and then consider whether a stamp duty relief applies. In most cases, the refund claim must be made to HMRC within 12 months and 14 days of completing the purchase.

If stamp duty has been overpaid because a conveyancer failed to claim the relief, it is possible to amend the SDLT return and make a claim to lower rates of SDLT.

How to claim back stamp duty

HMRC’s SDLT calculator enables property owners to work out the rates of stamp duty.

Individuals can then write to HMRC to claim for the amount that has been overpaid.

The refund rules are complicated, but if the deadline for making a claim is missed, buyers could claim against their conveyancer.

How long does a stamp duty reclaim take?

Generally, a refund claim takes several weeks to be processed and repaid by HMRC. HMRC operates a “process now, check later” procedure, which means that they will normally pay out the refund after some basic checks. They will then examine the claim in more detail within a ninemonth period after the claim.

Where the refund claim looks questionable, HMRC will open an enquiry and require detailed information in support of it. If they then disagree that a refund was due, they will issue a closure notice requiring repayment.

HMRC publishes guidance on making a refund claim online, and this will save the fee charged by an advisor. However, in my experience, many people find the process of claiming back their stamp duty complex and time-consuming.

www.patrickcannon.net

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I-B U I L D/ J U L/20

CUSTOM BUILDING

It’s time to re-invent the property search Due to the implications of COVID-19, people have been spending more time inside their homes than ever before. With remote working set to become the ‘new normal’ for many, people’s priorities and property requirements are changing. As a result, it is time for developers to expand their house-building horizons to ensure that they are answering buyer’s needs, writes Karen Curtin, Managing Director of Graven Hill.

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n 2019, only 30% of UK employees worked from home.

In contrast, over the last three months, the majority of the country has been forced to work remotely, increasing the need for more space around the home in order to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Many of those who are working in bedrooms, kitchens and living rooms are finding it difficult to separate themselves from work at the end of the day and unable to relax in rooms that they now associate with the office.

For those without gardens, this has been even more of an issue. Weeks of being unable to exercise outside for more than an hour a day has demonstrated the value that having outside space holds, both as somewhere to connect with nature and as a place for children to burn off some steam.

Having the whole family at home 24/7 may also have highlighted a lack of room in general. Open-plan living is likely to become even more I-B U I L D/ J U L/20

desirable, increasing the floorplan of the home and offering flexible space for family activities.

In order to appeal to those exploring the property market, housing developers will need to ensure that they are building new homes with these modern needs in mind.

A number of developers, including Graven Hill, a self- and custom-build development in Bicester, Oxfordshire, has taken the lead in creating an alternative approach to housing.

Custom building is the new kid on the block when it comes to UK housing.

Unlike a self-build, the internal and external structure of the property is built by a team of professionals, meaning that custom builders do not have to lift a finger. However, buyers do have the option to choose from a range of highquality fixtures and fittings, providing a greater level of customisation than a standard new build without the responsibility of having to construct the home themselves.

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In these changing times, giving buyers the confidence that the home they are purchasing will suit their long-term needs is vital. Nevertheless, that does not mean that practicality should overrule creativity. Custom building offers the best of both worlds, resulting in properties that are both unique and functional.

As well as building homes to fit people’s shifting needs, developers should also treat location as a priority.

Recent events have increased the importance of access to open spaces, and having nature on the doorstep has become hugely valuable, even if it is only in the form of a garden or an area of green space nearby.

CUSTOM BUILDING

At Graven Hill, protecting and enhancing the natural environment has always been a key consideration. From tree protection zones to the addition of grassland and hedgerows, the aim is to allow people and wildlife to live in harmony. Boardwalks and cycle routes have also been created, enabling residents to enjoy their surroundings without damaging them.

In addition to changing the way they approach the physical side of developments, developers are finding that they are also having to reassess the way they use technology to market the properties on offer – leading to virtual tours becoming increasingly common.

Now that people are aware of alternative digital ways to search for a new home, it is possible that virtual tours will become the norm, at least for first viewings. Access to this extra information, in the form of images, videos and even drone footage, is allowing buyers to make initial decisions on the suitability of a property.

With this in mind, developers should ensure buyers have access to all the details they might need, including floorplans, highquality images and videos of each home.

A virtual map of the site is another helpful feature, allowing potential purchasers to view the exact location of each property.

COVID-19 has changed the way we look at our homes, potentially forever. By reinventing the property buying process, and involving buyers in the creation of their home, there is no reason why people’s longterm property needs cannot be met.

www.gravenhill.co.uk

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IMPRESSIVE INNOVATION

A modern architectural gem Meticulously designed by award-winning Architect Niall McLaughlin, this modern-day masterpiece in Schull – named Skyros – was crafted from poured concrete and clad entirely in Irish Kilkenny limestone. Fusing modern architecture with minimalist-style, floor-to-ceiling glass windows allow the landscape to echo throughout the clean interiors, exhibiting stunning south-facing views over Roaringwater Bay and its collection of islands. Together with the AGA and underfloor heating, a glowing double-sided fire ensures this luxury retreat is as cosy as it is contemporary.

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nside, the singlestorey design has a vast internal volume, with high ceilings, pared-back interiors and light-filled spaces. The stunning living areas are complemented by four bedrooms, each exuding irresistible stay-in-bed appeal. The master has an en-suite bathroom with outof-this-world views, whilst the twin and single share a bathroom with bath and shower. The second double bedroom has a private shower and is separated from the main living space by a secret door. Moving outside, Skyros’ garden is intentionally simple, bringing no competition to the house design nor the view.

Here, i-Build’s Editor, Rebecca Kemp, talks to Skyros’ owners, the O'Learys, to find out what inspired the family’s desire to build in the picturesque town of County Cork, Ireland.

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RK: What inspired you to embark on your project rather than buying?

At the time, there weren’t any available properties in Schull that were desired – contemporary aesthetics and great coastal views. I obtained a beautiful site from my family, overlooking the sea in Schull. It was on a piece of land beside my family home where I used to play as a child, so I knew every inch of it. I loved that place and the happy childhood memories from living and playing there.

Creating a new home for a newlywed couple also felt like a real adventure – it will probably be the only property we will ever build from scratch. At the time we had the resources, the energy, a top architect willing to take on the project and a fantastic builder with whom we had a close relationship.

RK: What was the vision and inspiration behind your new home?

We wanted to build a beautiful house that would maximise the astonishing view out over the islands of Roaring Water Bay while fitting into the rugged West Cork Landscape. We were hoping to be allowed to build a contemporary design.

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RK: How did you approach finalising your design brief?

The design brief and process to arrive at a finished plan were very iterative. We started by giving a very loose brief but with a big portfolio of images (likes and dislikes) that we had collected over the years, stripped from magazines and books. The architects then came up their initial vision, and for about two years, we collectively added and subtracted and pushed and pulled the design to come up with a final version. There were further modifications derived from planning comments. However, when we acquired planning, we further modified the project to ensure it was affordable.

RK: How long did it take to gain planning permission?

The design and planning process took about two years, but that was driven by us making changes as we continuously modified the design to incorporate new ideas. For example, the high up north-facing windows in the living room area were a late addition; however, the light really makes that space.

The project had to meet the strict planning requirements of the Cork County Council. They were very helpful during the process, and some of their comments around scale ended up making the project much more affordable versus some of our initial ambitions.

IMPRESSIVE INNOVATION

RK: Were there any challenging aspects to the project and build?

The global financial crisis! We had a few subcontractors go bust, but we were fortunate to have such a stable and reliable main contractor – CHOM Construction.

The site was challenging as it had to be dug out of rock whose seams ran in such a way that made it very time-consuming to break and quite tight to operate in. The advantage was that the rock was pushed forward in the site creating a much bigger platform and ultimately a much bigger lawn than we anticipated.

RK: Did you project manage the build yourself?

No, the architects managed everything. We had a family member to act as our eyes and ears on the ground as we were London-based at the time. We had a very active relationship with the architectural team, and they heavily involved us in their decisions. However, we very much relied on them to lead the design process.

The whole project was led by Niall McLaughlin architects who had built two other fabulous coastal houses in West Cork. One of the Architects described it as a pet office project! They worked really hard to keep the quality while operating in quite tight budget constraints.

RK: How did you approach material and product specification?

In terms of material and products, the architects provided sensible recommendations based on our budget envelope from which we made final choices. We loved the feel and bulk of the Kilkenny limestone cladding. We spent a lot of time getting glazing that was of sufficient scale whilst avoid the cost of bespoke. Stunning grey resin floors. Jet black marble worktops. Its mainly blacks, whites, greys, clean surfaces. Of course, that’s the theory – it’s primarily covered in multi-coloured LEGO and Playmobile with a candy-coloured Cosy Coupe driving through at speed!

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IMPRESSIVE INNOVATION

RK: Did you install any renewable systems?

We installed solar water heating. The house receives vast amounts of solar gain and is very well insulated, so happily, it is very thermally efficient.

The house has fantastic insulation and benefits from substantial solar gain. The large sliding patio doors allow heat control in summer. The fireplace is fully enclosed but being double-sided radiates massive amounts of heat, which is exceptionally cosy in winter. Plus, the underfloor heating is very efficient.

RK: How long did the project take?

The actual build process took about 18 months which was as anticipated – although in common with all ‘grand designs’, the last week before our Christmas move-in was pretty frantic.

RK: Did you remain within the original budget?

The project budget did not slip thanks to the very professional job done by our builders, CHOM Construction, and their excellent QS. However, we added quite a bit of cost by adding extras, all of which were great additions.

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RK: What are the interior and exterior finished spaces like?

The house has two separate spaces – almost like two triangles colliding – the front living room area and the rear bedroom areas – linked with a central hall and corridor.

During the design phase, we continuously pulled the rear triangle out to the side, so it is a very long building which maximises the coastal view.

The front is entirely glazed and has a beautiful feeling of being outside. The rear is also incredibly light. The ceiling height is enormous front and back, so the size in no way equates to the square footage. And, the exterior is all clad in Kilkenny limestone – jet matt black, including the roof – angles everywhere – so it looks like a stealth bomber. We have four bedrooms – one of which can be effectively shut off from the rest of the house with its

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entrance. The master bedroom has a study-cumsitting room as well as a bath with a view out to the Fastnet Lighthouse.

The kitchen and living room all run into one another. There is nothing more beautiful than a summer’s evening, cooking and drinking in the super kitchen; the huge patio doors open to the west, the sun on the islands to the southwest and the kids in and out on scooters and trikes.

RK: How does the property respond to its surrounding landscape?

The building, despite its size, hides in the hillside and is invisible from the road and very hard to see from the sea, all despite its magnificent view. You don’t even see it until the last minute as you swing up the driveway – every time I drive up, it still surprises me to see – 10 years on.

From inside, it maximises the beauty of the local area. From waking up to sunrise over Castle Island in our south-east-facing master bedroom to observing from the living room, the last bit of sun falling on Long Island and Cape Clear and all the weather rolling in from the North Atlantic in between.

RK: How does the garden respond to the surrounding landscape and your new home?

We are lucky to have beautiful cedars trees in our view, which complement the sea views – it feels like the South of France.

IMPRESSIVE INNOVATION

RK: What was your vision for the exterior?

The garden further helps the house to merge into the landscape, keeping it very private and hidden. We didn’t want the landscaping to compete with the architecture or in any way diminish the feeling of scale.

RK: How did you decide which plants to use and how to place them?

In true West Cork style, local fuchsia lines the driveway.

Beyond the grass lawns; the gorse, brambles, wildflowers and willow are left to colonise everything that isn’t gravel, grass or limestone. This wild provides a contrast to the sharp jet black lines of the building.

RK: Have you incorporated any exterior furniture, flooring, sculptures or water features?

We have kept the exterior patios, paths etc. very simple so that the clean interior lines extend out to an uncomplicated exterior. We have also used black limestone and local gravel for all outside features to match the building and the surrounding rock faces. The main objective was to ensure that anything exterior was not competing with or breaking the line of the building.

RK: Did you work with a landscaping professional at any point in the process?

Yes, a local landscape garden designer advised us on framing views and positioning of some large rocks which was very useful. We had a fantastic stonemason to build our patios and paths.

RK: Is the final property everything that you hoped it would be?

The finished product is way more than what we thought it would be; I don’t think my wife or I expected the vast internal volume. And all buildings look so small at the early stages when walking round in the foundations.

RK: What’s your favourite thing about your new home?

Our favourite thing is being so involved in the everchanging West Cork weather…from inside. We see the clouds marching in to be replaced by bright sunshine to be followed by hail and more sun.

RK: What advice would you offer to anyone looking to self-build?

Make sure you have assembled a great team. We had a great architect with great vision and flexibility. We weren’t afraid to debate with them about what we wanted. They accommodated our ideas while keeping to their own vision. We had a fabulous builder who did such a great job and who has always been there for us to deal with issues that inevitably crop up post-completion. And keeping a very sharp eye on the financial decisions, so it doesn’t become a burden for the next 25 years. Our project could have been 100% more expensive, delivering limited extra amenity and ultimately unaffordable.

www.uniquehomestays.com 01637 881183

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ROOFING

Standing seam: the ideal solution for self-builds Here, Amanda Hinks-Edwards, Business Manager at Colorcoat Urban, explores the performance and aesthetic benefits of pre-finished steel standing seam roofing and wall cladding systems.

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elf-build projects around the UK are turning to metal standing seam roofing and cladding – as it can offer a multitude of benefits for a residential property. The system consists of flat metal panels with upstanding seams at the edge that run vertically. These seams will interlock with the panel next to it, to create a fully weatherresistant seal.

Design flexibility

Pre-finished steel standing seam systems can be used on a far greater variety of roof shapes and designs, compared to more traditional materials such as tile or slate. For example, they can be used to create mono-pitch and saltbox-style roofs, as well as more complex designs like clerestory, butterfly and doublepitched M-shaped roofs. As such, for the self-builder and their architect, it really increases the potential design possibilities.

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Compared to alternative materials, standing seam systems can also be installed at a far lower pitch. Some products can be fitted to roofs with a pitch of just 5º. This means that headroom in the attic space can be increased by as much as 44% compared to a standard 40º pitch roof. This can be incredibly beneficial for those who really need to maximise space.

Leading manufacturers should also be able to offer a wide range of colour options for pre-finished steel standing seam systems (which is made possible by the coating used). Colour options in our own portfolio include Winter Sky and Merlin, both of which offer an excellent alternative to materials such as zinc, as they can be used to achieve a similar look. Furthermore, the tonal matt shades we have can complement different facades, including glass, brick, wood, stone and render. Alternatively, Terracotta and Patina can be used to replicate the colour of traditional roof tiles and aged copper roofing.

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Durability

Standing seam roofing and wall cladding can be made from a number of materials – however, opting for pre-finished steel ensures a durable and long-lasting solution.

Leading manufacturers will state the performance ratings that the product achieves and/or provide guarantees – and these are always worthwhile checking.

For example, Colorcoat Urban comes under the Confidex Home guarantee – a 25-year warranty offered directly to the homeowner.

Confidex Home provides confidence in the quality of the advanced paint system applied to the steel (covering both Colorcoat Prisma and Colorcoat HPS200 Ultra) and is in place regardless of whether the system is used as roofing or cladding, or where the property is located.

Colorcoat Urban also has a Class AA/B roof (t4) performance rating according to BS 476 Part 3/EN 1187 when used as part of a roof cladding system. It is CE Marked in accordance with BS EN 14783:2013, and it meets Class 0 ‘low risk’ fire classification requirements of the UK Building Regulations. Colorcoat Urban also meets all UK roofing application requirements.

ROOFING

Environmental impact

For projects looking to minimise the environmental impact of the property, pre-finished steel standing seam roofing and wall cladding is ideal.

Firstly, steel can be easily recycled without impacting on the quality of the material, so at the end of its lifecycle, there is no need to turn it into landfill waste.

You should also check that the product has been sourced responsibly and the manufacturer has taken steps to reduce its own environmental impact in production and across the organisation. This will be demonstrated with certifications to BES 6001, ISO 14001, or if the product has achieved a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating or above.

Quick and easy installation

The easy fitting process and light weight of pre-finished steel standing seam systems mean that the installation process is quick and simple when compared with traditional methods. For example, Colorcoat Urban is seven times lighter than roof tiles, making it easier and safer to handle – which will ultimately reduce the installation time and cost.

Unlike zinc roofing, which requires a specialist roofing contractor to fabricate and install the system, steel systems can be installed by a more general roofing contractor or by the homeowner, providing they have the correct training. We can provide essential training, which we would recommend to all self-builders who wish to undertake the work themselves.

Non-combustible cladding

If you are looking to use steel standing seam cladding, it is important to check that it meets the required fire safety standards set by the updated Building Regulations. These state that all external cladding elements for buildings over 18m high must have a reaction to fire rating of A2 or better.

When embarking on a self-build project, it is always advisable to look at a variety of building materials at your disposal. Pre-finished steel standing seam roofing and wall cladding systems offer a number of benefits including ease of install, greater design freedom, durability and improved safety, making them an ideal choice for many.

www.colorcoaturban.com I-B U I L D/ J U L/20

FLOORING

Perfectly floored

What are the latest trends in flooring, particularly for high-traffic rooms such as the kitchen and bathroom where practical advantages are as important as aesthetics? How can porcelain tiles meet these requirements while offering flexibility in design from room to room? Ben Bryden, Sales and Marketing Director at RAK Ceramics, takes a look.

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iles are the go-to option for anyone looking for a practical flooring solution, with porcelain offering many benefits in terms of function as well as form. As a man-made material, porcelain is perfect for areas of the home such as the kitchen and bathroom due to its unrivalled durability and strength but also thanks to its many style options. How we use our homes has influenced design trends; the popularity of open-plan cooking, dining and living spaces; for example, has led to an increase in the use of tiled flooring. Porcelain tiles tick all the boxes from a practical perspective, but also from a style point too, being available in an array of sizes and in a wide range of colours and patterns to offer an extremely versatile flooring option.

The manufacturing process of porcelain, which uses a finer and denser clay combined with high temperature and high pressure, results in a material that is far stronger than other types of I-B U I L D/ J U L/20

ceramic, making this a highly durable flooring option that offers a great deal of longevity, even in high-traffic areas of the home. Spaces such as the kitchen and bathroom can benefit; in particular, from the properties of porcelain, which, because of its density, is extremely resistant to water and a very practical choice for floors in wet areas of these rooms. This is a material that is chemical and stain resistant too, so any everyday spillages in the kitchen can be easily wiped clean.

Whichever finish is chosen, from non-slip floor tiles through to gloss and satin finish wall tiles, a regular sweep and mop will keep them looking as good as new with very little effort.

Installation of the tiles themselves is also a straightforward process, with mega slabs from RAK Ceramics simplifying the process even further while minimising grout lines and creating a luxuriously seamless look.

These mega slabs offer endless design possibilities that can be used across

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the home, creating a seamless finish for the ultimate luxurious finish while also producing an illusion of space.

However, practicalities surrounding delivery, storage and even installation of such slabs can be a limiting factor to their use. Delivery can be made direct from the manufacturer to eradicate problems in that respect too, ensuring the slabs reach their intended destination in a pristine, ready-to-fit condition.

Style-wise, porcelain tiles are an extremely versatile flooring solution, due to the sheer variety of designs and colours available. Tiles can be printed or embossed in numerous ways, and solid floor tiles can be mixed and matched in patterns and colours in any number of ways. They can be chosen to match or contrast with wall tiling and splashbacks for a cohesive look and can be chosen to replicate the look of many hardwoods and natural stones for the ultimate luxe look.

RENEWABLES FLOORING

With an extensive range of styles, sizes and finishes available, the options are endless. Classic white porcelain tiles are the ideal option for creating a timeless style in the bathroom, for instance. White can be easily adapted to the modern or classic interior and combined with an array of materials and colours to create something eclectic and personable.

In contrast, black porcelain floor tiles add a touch of glamour, particularly when chosen in a polished finish and paired with high-gloss furniture, for a sleek and stylish space. If unrivalled opulence is the goal, then black tiles give an interior a dramatic yet sophisticated look.

Nature-inspired tiles are also very much on-trend, and porcelain offers the perfect opportunity to bring this look into the home without compromising on function. Tiles with a subtle or a bold marble-effect pattern work well when teamed with materials such as wood, bringing nature indoors and creating a calming, timeless and high-end look that works well across rooms including the bathroom and the kitchen. Revised classy marble and granite-inspired patterns displaying elegant veins used on kitchen floors; for example, create a sophisticated ambience that is the epitome of luxury and sophistication.

Wood is another very popular material for creating a rustic style in the home, but it can be difficult to care for, yet wood-effect porcelain tiles provide an effective solution. Whether chosen in a vintage style with distressed wood-look tiles and a matt finish or a glossy finish that replicates polished wood, all the beauty of wood can be enjoyed with porcelain tiles that look the part and will last for years with very little maintenance.

Floor tiles can also be used very effectively as a visual aid – having continuity in styles between the different areas of an open-plan kitchen living space; for example, creates a seamless impression, while opting for large-format porcelain floor tiles creates the illusion of space. Smaller tiles and those with a pattern can make a compact space look quite busy, whereas larger tiles with fewer grout lines are easier on the eye.

www.rakceramics.com/uk

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I-BUILD - PASSIVHAUS ZEHNDER GROUP UK

There are some excellent environmentally responsible products, such as sheep wool that can be used for your roof and wall insulation. The U-values you can achieve with this are comparable to those given by the carbon-intensive production of rigid board insulation or fibreglass.

4. Heating

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steps to a more sustainable selfbuild eco-home

Our building legislation contains many sustainability standards to be met. But for many self-builders, these are merely the starting point rather than the finish line, says Rupert Kazlauciunas, Technical Product Manager at Zehnder Group UK.

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assive House advocates, for instance, argue that the sole focus on carbon emissions, rather than energy use, is a fatal flaw in how we approach the idea of a more sustainable home. John Stapleton, Head of External Affairs at Sustainable Homes – a not-for-profit consultancy – identifies the self-build community as critical innovators in sustainable house construction. “Innovation is key to the sector, and it’s always good to mix things up. Sustainability is about much more than energy efficiency, and the self-build element in itself could be a sustainability aspect”.

So, what steps can you take if you are looking for the ultimate, eco-friendly self-build?

Best suited to a house designed to be a highly insulated and airtight home, MVHR works by extracting stale air and replacing it with filtered fresh air. Heat is extracted from the stale air, and this is used to warm the incoming filtered air, thus keeping the air fresh and the internal temperature comfortable and stable.

The most efficient MVHR units, such as Zehnder’s ComfoAir Q range, can recover up to 96% of the heat from extracted air that would have otherwise been exhausted to the atmosphere.

1. Fabric

3. Insulation

The production process involved in cement is extremely carbon-intensive.

Search as hard as you like, and you will not find any truly environmentally sustainable cement products.

Timber, however, is extremely environmentally-friendly, as long as the wood is sustainably sourced. As a form of biomass, as long as the trees are replanted and managed sustainably, there should be very little net carbon emissions as a result.

At the heart of Passive House designs is insulation. These buildings require very little, if any, heating as a result.

2. Heat recovery

According to The Renewable Energy Hub, a mechanical ventilation and heat recovery system (MVHR) in a domestic property can save up to 50% on energy bills, although this will vary significantly depending on the building itself.

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When you are designing your property from scratch, it’s so much easier to incorporate a lot more solar capacity than a standard house. This larger solar input, combined with airtight, insulated construction, can be used to run an efficient electric heating system, like an air pump or heat pump.

Heat pumps offer much lower running costs than traditional heating systems.

They also run on electricity and, if powered using green electricity (such as solar PV), can be 100% renewable.

If your home is well insulated, they are the most obvious heating solution. Their relatively low installation costs are currently heavily Government subsidised by the domestic Renewable Heat Incentive Ofgem scheme (RHI).

5. Rainwater harvesting

While the cost savings on heat can be massive, water is a cheap utility here in the UK. Yet, costs to the environment remain high, thanks to the carbon emissions and energy used to produce and supply it.

It is simple to incorporate a rainwater harvesting system into your self-build, as long as it is planned in at the early stages. This can be used to flush your toilets, do your washing, water your garden and clean your car.

www.zehnder.co.uk

I-DIY - BRICKWORK & BLOCKWORK CONCRETE BLOCK ASSOCIATION (CBA)

Also, consider the lye of the land. It’s important to know whether the soil type is clay, sand or chalk as it could have a significant impact on your build. Choosing the wrong foundation system for your soil could prove very costly in the future. You should also take into account any nearby trees. As a rule, any tree within a distance equal to the mature height of that tree from your build will affect the construction.

Understand detailing and thermal efficiency

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things to consider for your self-build

Even years of experience in the construction industry doesn’t guarantee a smooth ride for a self-build, as each project is different. Below, Chris Stanley, Housing Manager at the Concrete Block Association (CBA), discusses his experience building his own home and offers valuable advice to anyone embarking on a self-build project.

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ne of the first things you learn when you enter the construction profession is that each project is different, and things happen that can be out of your hands. Until you start digging those foundations, you’re somewhat in the dark. I was perhaps a little too close to the industry to foresee that I, too, could encounter hurdles.

Familiarise yourself with local planning restrictions

My biggest stumbling block came in the form of planning regulations. To do my bit for the environment, my ambition was to build an ultra-low energy, Passive Housestyle home, with a south-facing garden and facade to make the most of solar gain, and solar panels on the roof.

This was, unfortunately, not in line with the local authority’s requirements.

To reduce the mass and impact of the original design, I was forced to incorporate a gable and valley roof unlike the surrounding properties, which made the installation of solar panels impossible as the cost vs return would be negative.

To avoid having to resubmit plans and minimise delays, it’s important to get the local authority on board from the getgo. Make sure you are familiar with their design stipulations and what policies they regard more important before you spend time drafting your plans. This will prevent disappointment down the line.

Know what the role of each professional is

It’s also crucial to understand what the various individual professions involved in the construction process actually do. People are occasionally confused by what the difference is between a chartered surveyor, say, or a structural engineer.

While a surveyor will offer you impartial advice on a variety of property-related issues, depending on their field of expertise, a structural engineer is a problem-solving design professional who has the technical expertise to ensure a building is constructed both safely and cost-effectively.

Choose the right materials for what you are building and where

When you make your selection of building materials, it is important to consider the long term. What is the purpose of your build?

Are you building to live in now? A holiday home? To have somewhere to retire, or for posterity?

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Looking at the finer details of thermal efficiency and airtightness is crucial if you aspire to build to the best sustainability standards. This will save money on energy bills, as you can minimise how much ongoing heating or cooling your home requires.

Masonry products are highly reactive materials and deliver homes which are warm in the winter and cool in the summer, due to their inherent thermal mass properties. Despite this, you should still look out for thermal bridges; these are areas of a build with a higher thermal conductivity than the surrounding materials, typically breaks in the insulation. They can account for roughly 30% of a building’s heat loss.

At the CBA, we offer a free and easy-to-use tool to help anyone involved in a building project to determine the ideal materials for their project. The U-value calculator measures the thermal transmittance of a building’s exterior wall and enables its user to achieve optimal energy performance.

The CBA website also has a wide variety of thermal bridging details available for free download.

Take advice from the pro

Finally, I want to highlight how important it is to listen to your main contractor’s advice.

They know the professionals to work with, and it’s a good idea to let them recommend who is best for each job.

Trying to source everyone yourself can get complicated and time-consuming.

www.cba-blocks.org.uk I-B U I L D/ J U L/20

DOORS & WINDOWS

Here: Former Blue Anchor pub in St Albans converted to residential

Below: Georgian office block converted to

residential – on target for EnerPHit standards

Self-build, renovation and conversion: how secondary glazing can help For many, the thought of undertaking a self-build, renovation or conversion project to create their own ‘perfect’ home is a dream. Moving to an idyllic location, having more space or achieving off-grid/sustainable living; it is only a few of those dreamers who take the big step and put their plans into action. Those plans; however, can unravel to be more daunting than expected – what are the best materials to use, how do you navigate planning and, of course, there are those ‘pesky’ Building Regulations to take into consideration too. So where do you start?

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his article looks at enhancing window performance in each type of build that can be undertaken, as there is a lot to take into consideration for this one element of the building envelope.

Secondary glazing is an internal window, fitted into or onto the window reveal. It significantly enhances primary windows thermally, preventing heat loss and draughts; provides unparalleled acoustic insulation – cutting out noise nuisance and adds another layer of security. It is generally suited to listed buildings; however, it can be an equally important option for some new builds.

With land, on our small isle, at a premium, more and more of the plots being released for development are on brownfield sites which can come with their drawbacks. The main nuisance being noise, as often the areas are next to motorways, multiline rail tracks or airports. However, the dream can be attained, and the issue overcome.

When designing a new home, thought will need to be given as to how planning requirements will be met; so publications – such as BS 8233:1999 ‘sound insulation and noise reduction for buildings’, Planning and Policy Guidance 24: planning and noise, and the World Health Organisation guidelines – should be checked to ensure no issues are encountered down the line with planning departments.

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If land purchased falls in one of the heavy noise areas, then undoubtedly highperformance primary double glazing would be the obvious solution, or even triple glazing. Yet, these systems can come at a high price tag and; in fact, not as effective as using a more rudimentary primary system in combination with an air gap and secondary glazing.

High-traffic areas can create noise in the region of 70-80 dB+; well-sealed standard double glazing (4-16-6) can reduce this by 34 dB. To put this into perspective, the WHO recommends bedrooms and living rooms

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have an ambient noise level of between 3040 dB – so you can see, the system will not achieve this and disturbed nights’ sleep may ensue. By installing a more basic primary glazed solution and secondary glazing with a glass-to-glass gap of 150mm, a reduction of up to 48 dB can be achieved and even more if specialist acoustic glass is used.

These projects will often feature in a building which is; listed, in a conservation area, or is a change of use – i.e. church to residential. Again, especially in the case of listed properties or those in conservation areas, there will be many planning stipulations in place to stop changes being made to the historical details/architecture of the building or the surrounding area.

One of the weakest areas of the building both from a sustainability point of view and acoustically, are the windows. Generally, as part of the constraints, the original windows will need to be retained – which are often single glazed, draughty, allow heat loss and due to air gaps in the ill-fitting old frames – will allow noise to seep into the building. One of the only solutions to combat these issues is to install secondary glazing on the inside of the original window. It is a recognised solution and accepted by most conservation officers, as it is a reversible adaptation. This means that the secondary windows can be removed at any point in the future with little ‘making-good’ as it is a minimal intervention and a discreet treatment.

DOORSRENEWABLES & WINDOWS

ANATOMY OF SELECTAGLAZE SECONDARY GLAZING

1: FRAMING Sections are designed and extruded from aluminium alloy. This strong, lightweight material can be formed to create the slender, complex shapes needed to accommodate seals, fixings and specialist hardware

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2: FORMING

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Selected sections can be curved and shaped to

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match the primary window 3: FINISHES Framing is available in two types of finish:

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A. Polyester powder paint coated Standard colour is HIPCA white semi-gloss; other RAL colours in flat, metallic or textured finishes, to order, including wood grain effect B. Anodised In natural silver, bronze and a limited

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range of other colours Both paint and anodised finishes are very durable with long life expectancy and minimal maintenance

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4: GASKETS

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Glazing is held in position by specialist gaskets or

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bonding tapes. They are available in black and white.

5: WEATHERSEALS Sliding units are fitted with twin silicone-treated, grey polypropylene pile seals Hinging units are fitted with high-performance Q-Lon seals (in white or black). This material has

With the vast array of systems and styles in the market, it is possible to mimic the original windows and even have the secondary double glazing colour matched, to ensure it blends in with the surrounding decor, making them unobtrusive and unnoticeable. It will help reduce heat loss up to 60%, which; in turn, will have a positive impact on energy bills and reduce wastage – good for those whose priority is sustainable living. It can also help achieve Passivhaus and EnerPHit standards if a high level of sustainability is desired. It will have the same benefit acoustically as described above, creating a peaceful and relaxing environment. Additionally, even with a rudimentary system, it will add another layer of security, as single glazed windows are deemed more vulnerable and a soft target for burglars. Some systems on the market can also provide higher levels of security, including Secured by Design – the police preferred accreditation system – so always ask the supplier for evidence of testing and conformance if these products are required.

A recent conversion project, which had secondary glazing installed to meet planning requirements, was the change of use of a Grade II Listed 17th-century disused pub into a family home.

Located on a busy thoroughfare in St Albans and having the original crown glass, and wooden framed windows; a solution was required to make it more thermally efficient as well as to reduce the noise ingress from passing traffic. Designs were drawn up and listed building consent sought (this should always be attained, even though secondary glazing is a retrofit solution). The plans were passed, and 16 units installed throughout the property.

The owners are extremely pleased with the outcome, with a considerable reduction in their energy bills and barely notice the passing traffic outside.

What could be seen as a product of the past, is providing many benefits for a variety of building products. Systems and designs of secondary glazing have come a long way over the years and with the ability to shape and curve the aluminium frames, as well as colour them in a durable powder paint coated finish; you will feel the benefits almost immediately without noticing how they have been achieved.

excellent 'memory' and will retain its original shape for years, maintaining optimum sealing and acoustic performance.

6: PRIMARY WINDOW The outer or existing window frame 7: CAVITY The gap between the primary and secondary windows 8: GLAZING Glazing complies with BS 6262: 2005, the Code of Practice for glazing in buildings, and meets the requirements of Building Regulations Parts N1 and N2.

OTHER GLAZING OPTIONS INCLUDE: 9: GROUNDS AND SUB-FRAMES: Custom-made timber grounds can accommodate splayed or out-of-shape openings.

Enhanced thermal:

Security:

Low emissivity (hardcoat)

Anti-bandit laminates

Sealed glass unit

Polycarbonate sheet

(various specifications) Enhanced acoustic: Acoustic laminates

Glass/polycarbonate composites Safety: Toughened Laminated

Privacy: Patterned Opaque laminate

Solar control: Body tinted

Screen printed or etched Switchable glass Sealed glass unit with integral blind

Clarity: Anti-reflective glass Low-iron glass

All timber grounds and sub-frames are made from FSC-certified timber products 10: SEALANTS Timber grounds, sub-frames and aluminium frames are bedded on an acrylic sealant to provide a lasting perimeter seal.

www.selectaglaze.co.uk

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I-NTERIOR - IRONMONGERY IRONMONGERYDIRECT

Dress your door to impress The front door not only contributes to visitors’ first impressions of a home but also forms a significant part of the property’s overall security.

Here, David Saxby, Senior Category Manager at IronmongeryDirect, outlines the key considerations when choosing front door hardware.

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here are a number of factors that should be considered when choosing exterior door furniture, from creating curb appeal and a long-lasting, high-quality appearance to ensuring the door is safe and secure.

Substance and style

The most visible element is the front door furniture, which includes a range of different items such as centre doorknobs, pulls and handles, knockers, bell pushes, letter plates, numbers and lock covers. These are available in a variety of different styles to suit every type of home and design. For example, bright polished brass or chrome is an ideal accompaniment to dark wood or black doors and also provides an excellent contrast to matt finish doors, especially in more muted shades such as blues and greys. High-shine black nickel hardware offers the same finish and an eye-catching contrast with brighter colours.

Satin chrome or satin nickel offers a more understated, matt appearance.

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Alternatively, for more traditionally styled or rural homes, there is antique black and brass door furniture. To ensure a truly authentic look, there are other items such as traditional bell pull fittings and decorative door studs available in matching black finishes to complete the look.

However, in addition to the aesthetic requirements, it is also important to select a material that is suitable for the weather conditions the door furniture will be exposed to. This ensures the front door stays looking new for longer, and the finish on the hardware does not tarnish or degrade. For example, in coastal areas, it is important to select products that can resist the salt air; therefore, 316 stainless steel or PVD brass is recommended. Physical Vapour Deposition or PVD is the process of coating brass with a thin layer of hard-wearing metal, such as zirconium, which prevents wear and damage from the elements.

PVD brass also has a high-shine, golden finish. 316 stainless steel contains a small percentage of molybdenum that enhances corrosion resistance. There are stainless steel items available in a range of finishes to help achieve the desired look.

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Making it safe and secure

Regardless of the style of home or front door, it is important to ensure that it provides a sufficient level of security. The type of lock required will depend on whether the door is wooden, composite or uPVC. Wooden doors most commonly have two types of lock fitted: a sash lock or a single/double locking night-latch; and a deadlock morticed into the edge of the door, providing additional security.

It is always advisable to seek advice from a professional and to ensure that any proposed product is CE Marked to confirm its quality.

In addition, many insurance policies will require locks that conform to British Standard 3621 as a minimum and insurance providers will often ask if the locks meet this standard during the quotation process. BS 3621 applies to a range of different lock types including Euro deadlocks, sash locks and nightlatches. Still, all compliant locks must have a minimum of 20mm bolt throw into the door frame and include antilockpicking and anti-drilling measures.

The front door is an important part of any home so care and consideration should be taken when choosing the right type of ironmongery to ensure it gives the best first impression to visitors and provides a real deterrent to potential thieves.

www.ironmongerydirect.co.uk

I-NTERIOR - IRONMONGERY SEH BAC

Cast-iron thinking When you are building your own property from scratch, ironmongery probably isn’t going to be at the top of your list of priorities. After all, if you’ve not got walls or a roof yet, your door handles might seem like rather a small concern.

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ut it’s something every self-builder will have to think about at some stage, and chances are it will be here before you know it.

Ironmongery is one of those product areas where the choice is enormous, so a good first step is to simply identify what you’ll need.

You’ll be surprised at the amount that’s required. The

average four-bed house can have as many as 15 internal doors and a similar number of windows.

The next step is to think about what you want that ironmongery to achieve.

Is it purely functional, or do you have something more decorative in mind to help your property achieve a desired look and feel?

Pad door handles and swan neck handles can perfectly enhance the traditional aesthetic found on older properties for a more heritage look,

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while for modern new-build properties, sleek, straight handles or stainless-steel long bars can blend with the clean lines of a modern door.

SEH BAC Home Improvements has been installing doors and windows for more than 50 years and advising homeowners on the best ironmongery to suit their property.

www.sehbac.com I-B I-BU UIILLD/ D/JJU UN/20 L/20

LEGAL & BUSINESS PRODUCT GUIDE ADVERTORIAL: RECTICEL INSULATION

Ultra-thin Deck-VQ and Powerdeck F make contribution to thermal performance Recticel’s ultra-thin vacuum insulation solution helped achieve the desired U-value target on a highly challenging remodelling project at a private residence in London.

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ue to its minimal thickness and extremely high insulation value, Deck-VQ was selected as the ideal solution for a refurbishment project in Wimbledon, south-west London.

The owners of the large, detached property in Parkside Gardens required a solution for a flat roof with height restrictions to protect a building containing an indoor swimming pool. The 125m 2 roof included low-perimeter parapet walls. In these areas, insulation build-up is required to be kept to a minimum without compromise to its thermal performance. Recticel’s Deck-VQ was developed for such a purpose.

The Deck-VQ vacuum insulation panel (VIP) is encapsulated to protect the Core-VQ at its centre, which has a marketleading 0.006 declared lambda value – the best performance on the market. This capability makes it the ideal insulation solution for flat roof and terrace applications where space is limited and material thickness is an issue, but high thermal performance is required.

Mulberry GBC on behalf of CC Construction, as part of a warm roof system, recommended cold liquid applied waterproofing manufacturer Triflex.

The flat roof also featured 40mm Powerdeck F boards, supplied by Recticel’s sister company, Gradient. This flat roof insulation solution is designed for use in built-up felt and single-ply membrane waterproofing systems. It offers high compressive strength and excellent thermal performance (λ = 0.024 to 0.026 W/mK), making it a compatible option for a range of waterproofing systems. Its additional use as an infill panel meant Powerdeck F was a key requirement of the builtup insulation system.

Insulation type and thickness was key to ensuring the roof was not subject to surface and interstitial condensation.

With indoor swimming pools, there is a higher level of humid, warm air within the room beneath the roof, than with a

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standard building. Therefore, there is a greater risk that the moisture vapour within the air will condense to water where it penetrates a roof and comes into contact with a cold surface.

To prevent such an occurrence, Triflex worked with Gradient to produce condensation risk analysis calculations. This ascertained that their recommendations in terms of insulation above the vapour control layer (VCL) would be of the correct thickness and R-value to eliminate the condensation risk.

Mark Gregory, Technical Manager at Triflex, said: “The Recticel and Gradient solutions were crucial to the project’s success. Their thermal capabilities were key to ensuring the roof achieved the regulatory U-value, as well as eliminating the long-term risk of condensation build-up. Deck-VQ is an all-round performer. Its easy handling ability ensured a potentially challenging project was completed in good time and to the client’s full satisfaction.”

Light and easy to handle, the Deck-VQ panels and Powerdeck F boards were key to the Parkside Gardens project’s completion. As part of the warm roof’s overall composition, they ensured the roof achieved a U-value of 0.18 W/m2K in accordance with Part L of Building Regulations, and in conjunction with Powerdeck F boards, guaranteed its longterm thermal and waterproof performance. www.recticelinsulation.com 0800 085 4079 customer.services@recticel.com

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LEGAL & BUSINESS PRODUCT GUIDE ADVERTORIAL: VELUX | WORCESTER BOSCH | EQUITONE | KÖNIGSTONE

EQUITONE collaborates with leading architectural practices to develop a new shade

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uartz White has

been designed and

developed in response

to architects’ requests for a subtle white tone. Inspired by the soft

colour palette of nature, Quartz White joins the 26 other shades in the EQUITONE [natura] range, from Pale Mist to Anthracite. The material is characterised by a unique display of fibres that are expressed throughout the material. These fibres are distributed randomly,

creating a refined surface, whilst offering a through-coloured, smooth and silky finish. EQUITONE [natura], like the other materials in the range, can be cut, milled and fabricated into a variety of shapes and sizes, enabling architects to add intricate

surface detail and striking pattern to facade design.

www.equitone.com 01283 501540

Königstone is open for business with fabrication partner at 100% capacity again

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VELUX partners with Sky Media to launch TV ad campaign promoting extensions

eading worktop and surface specialist, Königstone, is

up and running with a full order

book. The company’s fabrication

partner, Midland Stone Centre, has manufacturing facilities back at

100% and is ready to receive customer orders. The company produces high-quality, elegant quartz and natural stone

kitchen surfaces alongside the innovative new Königsink.

Available to kitchen retailers across the UK is an impressive

VELUX has partnered with Sky Media to launch a TV campaign to highlight the benefits of using VELUX roof windows to maximise daylight in a single-storey extension and transform it into the perfect living space.

range of 27 Königquartz colours alongside the range of 15 Könignaturals. In addition, there is a brand-new portfolio of semi-precious stone surfaces. Joanne Bull, Marketing

Manager, comments: “After a necessary shutdown, in order to support the national effort,

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he three-month campaign, which launched 8th June, is aimed at young couples and families and will show viewers how installing roof windows can make a huge difference to an extension and help them create the perfect space for an evening in.

There are three different adverts which will be shown on Sky One, Sky Witness and Sky Atlantic. As part of the partnership, VELUX has also created a dedicated online hub, hosted by Sky Media, where homeowners can get lots more information around how to make the most of an extension to their property.

VELUX ACTIVE with NETATMO, and the company’s range of blinds, will be promoted as part of the campaign. VELUX ACTIVE is compatible with VELUX INTEGRA electric and solar roof windows and has smart sensors, which continuously monitor the temperature, humidity and CO 2 levels in the home and open and close your roof windows accordingly to create a healthier indoor climate.

VELUX INTEGRA is available with blinds and shutters, and VELUX blinds come in a variety of different styles and colours. Whether you are looking for efficient darkening or daylight and heat control, there is a stylish solution in www.velux.co.uk/studio the VELUX blinds range to suit 01592 778225 every individual’s taste. sales@velux.co.uk

we are delighted to be back up and running.”

www.konigstone.co.uk info@konigstone.co.uk

Worcester Bosch launches ‘Safe in your Home Installer Commitment'

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orcester Bosch has launched a new initiative to support

installers and homeowners for work undertaken in the home. The ‘Safe

in your Home Installer Commitment’ is a pledge for installers to sign-up

for, enabling them to receive a pack of digital and physical

tools to help them undertake work in customers’ homes safely and securely. The commitment intends to do two things.

Give installers clarity on the correct social distancing and

hygiene guidelines they need to be following when entering

customers’ homes. And, give customers reassurance that any visiting installer who signs up to the commitment will have the knowledge and tools to take the

right precautionary measures.

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www.worcester-bosch.co.uk 0330 162 3574 technical-advice@uk.bosch.com I-B U I L D/ J U L/20

LEGAL & BUSINESS PRODUCT GUIDE ADVERTORIAL: H.D. SERVICES

Renewable underfloor heating with an open-loop ground source system E nergy Efficiency Awards 2020: Creating a sustainable and efficient heating system is becoming a hot topic within the domestic market, due to the UK becoming the first major world economy to set a target to achieve net-zero on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

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o achieve this, renewable energy can only come from sustainable resources. It cannot be created from the continuous burning of fossil fuels, which releases carbon dioxide at a far greater rate than consumed in the world.

Ideal for new-build homes, residential extensions and small new-build commercial dwellings, an open-loop ground source heating system by HD Services, can be installed to create this renewable energy required to become sustainable and help towards achieving the net-zero target.

An open-loop ground source heat pump (GSHP) system extracts heat directly from the ground water – usually from the aquifer via a borehole – using its heat pump system, where the heat is raised in temperature using compressors and then delivered to the heating system throughout a property. The groundwater is cooled by approximately 5°C before being returned to the ground, where it immediately begins to regain heat from the earth. This not only protects the aquifer by replacing its water at an appropriate temperature but also creates a complete sustainable cycle.

This style of heating system works best with underfloor heating and low-temperature radiators. With the rise in popularity of underfloor heating due to its energyefficient heating, ease of installation and improved aesthetics by removing radiators,

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it’s only fitting to combine an openloop ground source system with an underfloor system to create the perfect renewable heating system.

Unlike traditional radiators, which can make a room feel too hot or too cold at times, an underfloor heating system doesn’t overheat.

It can achieve a consistent desired temperature, which is easily controlled and uninterrupted, while removing any cold spots as the system spans across the entire floor.

Along with a reduced carbon footprint, there are additional benefits to utilising a private water supply. A heating system is just the beginning. As a private borehole supply has greater water efficiency, it can also provide the option for hot water, greywater and can usually be filtered to create potable water for consumption.

HD Services allows each one of its customers to get the full benefit of an open-loop ground source heating installation. Its expertise in local geology, borehole engineering and water supply, has provided numerous properties across the South East of England with a private water supply that has enabled them to produce renewable energy and stay sustainable.

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H.D. Services are also proud to announce that before the Coronavirus hit our shores and the world changed, we were doing quite well at the Energy Efficiency Awards 2020! Before the rest of the regional events were postponed, we achieved a Commendation at the South East Region awards in the category of Small Scale Project of the year for a project in Alfrison, where we installed our first converted closed-loop system which utilises a Kensa shoebox heat pump and which is performing more efficiently than expected. We were also Commended in the categories of Renewable Heat Installer and Highly Commended in Small Scale Project of the year at the East Midlands region awards for a project in Oxon, which utilised an existing water supply borehole to provide heating via a dedicated Soleco open-loop ground source heat pump system. www.hdservicesltd.co.uk enquiries@thehdgroup.co.uk 01494 792000

LEGAL & BUSINESS PRODUCT GUIDE ADVERTORIAL: DRU FIRES

DRU fires announces new Dik Geurts Bora Corner stoves Dik Geurts is the brand name for the wood fires and stoves that are designed and manufactured by DRU.

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ora has a contemporary cubic design and is one of the most popular stoves in the range. Bora Corner is a new version with glass on two sides, so the flames can be enjoyed from all aspects in the room. It is operated using a simple air slide.

Bora Corner is available in a number of variations. Bora Corner Wall is wall-mounted. Fixed is suspended from the ceiling.

Cubes has modular log storage plinths. Straight Plateau has larger horizontal log storage. And, Floating Plateau has an open-ended designer log storage.

All models are Ecodesign-2022 ready, have A energy ratings and the option of external air connection for clean burning and high efficiency. This also makes them suitable for modern, wellinsulated homes.

They are available from approved DRU fireplace dealers throughout the UK. www.drufire.com

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So much more user-friendly than your old fashioned heating styles like radiators.

-Ben Hillman, Interior Designer & TV Presenter

CHECK OUT WUNDAGROUP.COM/ARCHITECTS FOR VIDEOS & INFO

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