Professional Builder April 2023

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IT’S GOOD TO TALK

Here at Professional Builderwe’vealways been aware of the value of a trip to the builders’ merchants, and it’s not just about tools and materials – or to pick up the latest issue of the nation’s favourite trade magazine. Days spent on site can often be largely solitary ones, and the human interaction of a chat at the trade counter –or the snack vans that populate many of the industrial estates in which they’re found – can mean more than perhaps many people would like to admit.

For time-poor tradespeople, who might be spending large parts of their evening with nothing but paperwork for company –and who could be missing out on a significant slice of family life as a consequence – the cumulative impact can be exacerbated still further.

If the pandemic taught us anything it’s that we are social animals. When the shutters came down on much of our society we were suddenly starved of the face-to-face channels of communication on which we thrive. That’s a reality that had implications for our well-being – quite possibly more than we are currently aware – and in an industry that records the worst suicide rates of any other it’s an issue that can take a tragic turn.

The simple act of talking might be something we take for granted but can equally improve our quality of life immeasurably – and even save lives. It’s a fact that everyone from the Samaritans to the construction industry’s very own Band of Builders recognise and engage with. It’s not just those who are physically working alone, of course, because it’s equally possible to feel isolated in a crowded room.

It would seem that a new study from Nescafe has also confirmed what many of us already know instinctively, with research revealing that half (47%) of construction workers feel lonely in the workplace. The findings are part of Nescafe’s ‘Make Chat Work’ campaign and have been published in the wake of a report from the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Issues Affecting Men and Boys, which recommended that mental health provisions should be written into construction contracts.

As you might expect the Swiss-based drinks giant is at pains to promote the idea of coffee breaks in stimulating conversations between colleagues but –putting your beverage of choice aside – it is an argument that holds firm and will resonate with those on the tools. Nearly every respondent – some 99%, in fact –said that getting together for a coffee break is important.

So, there you have it. Shock news –talking to someone about your problems actually helps. A male dominated industry whose members are often reluctant to admit they’re feeling the pressure, is just one of the barriers. The weight of stigma hangs heavy in the building sector and has dragged a good many down still further.

Nescafe already has the support of a number of trade bodies, including the Federation of Master Builders (FMB), the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) and the Construction Industry Council (CLC), all of whom are coming together to improve workplace well-being. These are organisations that already exist to help their members run their businesses better and addressing the mental health challenges that all too many small builders face is a natural extension of that mission. At the same time, the FMB is also partnering with the Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity, in order to further the work both have been doing, and Nescafe will also be making a donation to the charity.

Given the number of parties currently championing the cause you might be forgiven for thinking that everyone, everywhere is talking about their wellbeing – and, of course, they’re not. How do we know this? Because the statistics tell us that stress and anxiety accounts for a fifth of all work-related illnesses. Tragically, they also reveal that two construction workers take their own life every single working day – and that’s something we need to keep talking about.

For further information on the Nescafe Make Chat Work campaign or to download the free Make Chat Work Guide visit WWW.RDR.LINK/BAR001

A new National Retrofit Hub has been created to drive the roll-out of retrofit in the UK’s existing homes.

The National Retrofit Hub is backed by over 40 organisations including Innovate UK, TrustMark, Sustainable Development Foundation, UK Green Building Council and the Federation of Master Builders.

Lynne Sullivan, Chair of the National Retrofit Hub, explains: “The UK has the oldest and leakiest housing stock in Europe. The current energy crisis has shown that most of our existing homes are very expensive to heat because they are poorly insulated. There is now an urgent need to reduce energy consumption and the most effective way to do this is to make our existing homes more energy efficient by ensuring they are retrofitted, to a standard suitable for low carbon heating systems.

FIT FOR PURPOSE LEADING FROM THE FRONT

“The creation of the National Retrofit Hub is a means to bring clarity to those who work in the retrofit sector by signposting and sharing best practice to speed up the roll out of greener homes. Creating the Hub will cement links with the finance community and the skills providers to enable locally based delivery programmes to be scaled up and deliver significant economic and social benefits.”

Asbestos: Young tradespeople need to know the risk

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE NATIONAL RETROFIT HUB VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAR002

Millennials, gen Z workers and other younger people who work as plumbers, electricians, and in other trades need to take the risk of asbestos much more seriously. That’s the message from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). The workplace regulator is launching a new campaign to raise awareness of the risks associated with the dangerous substance.

The construction sector boomed by further growth predicted this year Analysis by easyMoney has shown that at £97.6bn (2022) the UK construction sector is by far the largest in Europe and is expected to grow by a further 3.9% this year, having rebounded from the previous pandemic decline seen since 2020. The figures show that residential construction accounts for the vast majority of this market size (80.8%). The sector is expected to see a further 3.9% increase in 2023, pushing it above the £100bn mark for the first time since 2020, to an estimated £101.4bn.

FOR MORE DETAILS, VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAR003

TALK ABOUT IT

New data reveals half of construction workers feel lonely at work

New data reveals that 47% of construction workers in the UK feel lonely in the workplace. The findings, which are part of the NESCAFÉ ‘Make Chat Work’ campaign, also reveal that 79% of construction workers agree that having opportunities to talk to colleagues around coffee breaks would make them feel less lonely.

FOR MORE DETAILS, VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAR004

The campaign, called Asbestos and You, will target all tradespeople with a focus on younger workers in trades such as plastering and joinery. HSE wants to reach construction workers who started their careers after the use of asbestos was banned in 1999.

The regulator is concerned the length of time it takes for symptoms to develop after asbestos exposure could lead to a perception among today’s younger workers that it is something that only impacts older people who were working before the ban.

Five thousand people a year still die from asbestos related illnesses and asbestos can still be found in buildings built or refurbished before the year 2000.

Asbestos containing materials were used extensively in the construction and maintenance of buildings in Great Britain from the 1950s until the ban. That means construction workers of all ages could still be exposed to asbestos fibres today.

TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE ASBESTOS AND YOU CAMPAIGN, VISIT HSE’S WEBSITE FOR FURTHER GUIDANCE ON THE SUBJECT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAR005

© Wolfilser/ Adobe Stock

HERITAGE MATTERS

DBR partners with QEST on built heritage skills scholarship programme

DBR (London) has announced a three-year partnership with the Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust (QEST), to support its ongoing scholarship programme. The scholarship is open to anyone looking to enhance their craft skills in built heritage, from stonemasonry and plasterwork to leadwork and joinery. The successful candidate will receive a substantial bursary funded by DBR, which will go towards specialist training in their chosen field. Applications will open in July 2023 for an award in November 2023, judged by a panel of QEST experts.

THE BIG BAND

Band of Builders announces charity building projects for 2023

The organisation is gearing up for at least five substantial jobs – three of which require planning permission. The beneficiaries include a trainee bricklayer who suffered a brain aneurysm; the eight-yearold son of a general builder, who became quadriplegic after contracting meningococcal septicaemia; and a builders’ merchant employee who was left paralysed from the waist down after a spinal abscess. (See our profile of BoB’s Gavin Crane on Page 12)

FOR MORE DETAILS VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAR007

WHEELS IN MOTION

British Commercial Vehicle output up in best start to year since 2012

UK commercial vehicle (CV) production grew 35.6% in the first month of 2023, with 9,299 units leaving factory gates, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). It’s the best start to a year since 2012 and reflects the determination of manufacturers to get back on track. Volumes are expected to increase significantly throughout the year, as new models begin production and a major new electric van manufacturing plant comes on stream – a boost which is set to see UK CV output surpass 160,000 units in 2023.

FOR MORE DETAILS VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAR008

STAY SAFE

Watch out for non-compliant PPE and safety equipment, warns safety body. The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) is warning the industry of sub-standard PPE. The BSIF completed tests on 127 non-member products and found 108 (85%) failed to meet the regulatory criteria. A few examples of these substandard products include an 'indestructible safety trainer' that failed the midsole penetration test and 'cut-resistant gloves' that didn't pass the relevant cut test. The BSIF Registered Safety Suppliers, on the other hand, are tested annually to strict criteria.

GET YOUR TICKETS

Dulux Academy champions

‘Skills for Life’

Dulux Academy is promoting apprenticeships as a means for individuals to build upon their skills and knowledge for the future and, in turn, help businesses grow a workforce of experts. In keeping with the Academy’s wider goals, the Apprentice Season Ticket enables apprentices to attend courses at any UK Dulux Academy venue to support and supplement their site and college-based learning.

FOR MORE DETAILS VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAR010

IDEAL LOCATIONS

Alliance Fund research advises housebuilders where they should be looking for new opportunities.

Research by Alliance Fund reveals that the average demand for plots of land in England currently sits at 50.8% and advises where developers should most focus their attention when looking for new opportunities.

Developers should consider a mixture of demand and total available plots, making the East Midlands an attractive proposition. The region sits below average demand at 44.1% and has a large total of 1,279 current land listings. Price per square foot for plots should also be considered.

FOR MORE DETAILS VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAR011

CLICK ON THE RDR LINK TO VIEW A FULL LIST OF REGISTERED WWW.RDR.LINK/BAR009

SUPPLY AND DEMAND

The CLC releases a statement on product availability improvements

John Newcomb, CEO of the Builders Merchants Federation and Peter Caplehorn, CEO of the Construction Products Association, have released a statement on the improving balance of construction product demand and supply. The two CEO’s are also co-chairs of the Construction Leadership Council’s Product Availability working group. The general message is that product availability is on the up across most trades and price inflation seems to be stabilising.

FOR MORE DETAILS VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAR012

BURNING UP

HETAS and Woodsure CEO responds to ‘Emissions of air pollutants statistics’ by Defra for 2023

The report highlighted an increase in burning wood for fuel by 124 per cent between 2011 and 2021, and a decrease in use of coal for domestic heating.

Bruce Allen, the CEO, said: “At the crux of this is educating the consumer on the best way to burn to cause as little damage to the environment as possible.” The organisation he leads offers various resources, including advice on the cleanest solid fuel, wood or biomass appliances. They also run the Ready to Burn scheme, marking fuel that is compliant with emissions regulations.

FOR MORE DETAILS VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAR013

LEARNING TIME

The Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity has launched its new e-learning programme. The charity’s Wellbeing Academy already offers online tutor led masterclasses, seminars and onsite training, and this latest addition is aimed at equipping workers with the soft skills they need to navigate today’s challenges and uncertain times. The free self-e-learning modules form the foundations of the Wellbeing Academy and courses include Bang on Budget, Banter vs Bullying, Managing Stress, Resolving Conflict, Understanding Anxiety and Work Life Balance. Each of the e-learning modules are delivered at two levels.

FOR MORE DETAILS VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAR014

READERS’ LIVES

GIVING BACK

Late last year Band of Builders reached a significant milestone when it surpassed the £1million mark in project value across its worthy history – but the charity is promising that there is much more still to come.

“I live and breathe Band of Builders,” confesses Gavin Crane. Indeed, the charity’s CEO wound down his own commercial landscaping business last year in order to devote his attention to the organisation – and 2022 would witness a record number of beneficiaries.

Gavin’s personal involvement in the building trades extends more than twenty years, whilst he followed the progress of BoB from the beginning, with the very first project that Addam Smith completed for his friend, Keith Ellick, who had been diagnosed with terminal cancer. In a by now well-known but no less heartwarming story, Addam took to social media to ask for help renovating Keith’s home and the response was so overwhelming that the idea for Band of Builders was born.

“My first hands on involvement would come with BoB’s second assignment in 2017, which was in collaboration with Simon’s Heroes, a Staffordshire-based charity that helps children with life-limiting illnesses. We were tasked with creating a sensory garden at a special needs school and I was Project Lead. I had quite a lot of experience of building playgrounds and

the like, so my skillset was a natural fit. From those beginnings I’ve been involved at some level with every job we’ve undertaken, whilst my role has recently evolved into securing partnerships and support for what we do.”

Gavin now provides the drive and vision that Band of Builders needs to

continue and his commitment to the cause is unquestionable. “Over the last few years, we’ve developed commercial partnerships with the likes of DeWalt, Talasey, Regatta Workwear and more recently CT1 which provides a secure amount of funding, so we don’t have to rely on events or individual donations.”

With the cost-of-living crisis squeezing disposable incomes, the third sector has itself experienced financial pressures. Where Band of Builders departs from many charities, however, is the extent to which it is supported by merchants and suppliers. “As an example of their generosity, we undertook a project in Northern Ireland last year that had a project value of £95,000,” reveals Gavin. “All of the funds were secured through the generosity of the local supply chain, and that’s quite typical of how we

Band of Builders (BoB) CEO, Gavin Crane

Professional Builder’s Lee Jones charts the charitable endeavours of Band of Builders and talks to BoB CEO, Gavin Crane about the successes to date and what is yet to come.

Gavin Crane (Right) with Mark Wall, CEO of Talasey Group

operate. We’re not a cash-hungry organisation and our turnover is actually quite low.”

“That’s a model we want to continue with – a relatively compact team of trusted tradespeople who can come together to achieve big things.” At the same time, Band of Builders completed a record number of projects in 2022. There are also plans in place to devolve the organisation from its current national structure to operate regionally, with each division capable of taking on its own charitable works, which could significantly increase the overall number.

“Band of Builders is nothing without our incredible volunteers, many of whom are veterans who get the bug and keep coming back time and time again. From day one we’ve had 772 tradespeople working across the projects we’ve undertaken, and we’re always looking to encourage new people to get involved. We need a diverse range of people with different skills in order to do the work we do and managing that can sometimes be a challenge.”

Why do it?

So, what’s the appeal for Gavin and the hundreds of volunteers who have championed Band of Builders over the

That’s incredibly rewarding, especially for builders who often don’t get the credit for the work that they do from wider society. One of the guiding principles of the charity is that the beneficiary will always have a connection to the construction industry. That’s a unique proposition and creates a real feeling of community and togetherness on site.”

“I get asked what has been the best project to be involved in a lot, and the truth is that they are all very emotional in their own way. We were very proud to have completed our first project in Northern Ireland last year, for example, but each and every one is special because it’s a life that we’ve helped to change. The most challenging part of the process is selecting the beneficiary and we need to make sure that we’re able to make a tangible difference.”

The pandemic created problems for the charity’s work in that operating in people’s homes was problematic, but it also gave Gavin and his team time to reflect and explore other initiatives that would support the industry. One of the results of that is the Big Brew where events up and down the country encourage tradespeople to come together and remove some of the stigma associated with mental health issues. “In 2022 alone over 200 Big Brew meets

have taken place in builders’ merchants. From that concept we’ve gone further, launching our own counselling service, alongside text support. It’s shocking that construction has the highest suicide rate of any sector and I’m delighted that we’re able to provide some help.”

With a team of only three direct employees, and a core group of around 20 volunteers – all of whom are also tradespeople – what Band of Builders has achieved to date is remarkable, and its scope and reach is set to extend still further. For a full is of project planned for 2023 visit

IF YOU’RE A TRADESPERSON WHO WANTS TO GET INVOLVED IN THE WORK OF BAND OF BUILDERS VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAR016

“Band of Builders is nothing without our incredible volunteers, many of whom are veterans who get the bug and keep coming back time and time again.”

- Gavin

Crane, Band of Builders CEO

In addition to its Big Brew initiative, BoB has also launched a text service

LENDINGSupport

SME housebuilders face a tough battle ahead. High land prices and the ongoing construction materials cost inflation means making profit margins work on open market consented sites challenging, and developers and funders alike are navigating how to make deals work.

The events of the past three years have tested the resilience of SME housebuilders like few other sectors. An unfortunate combo of Covid-19 pandemic, site lockdowns and project delays, record planning delays and unprecedented construction materials cost inflation were followed by a slowdown in the private sales market and higher financing costs in the wake of last September’s mini budget debacle. From estate agents to surveyors, many stakeholders in the housing market have been impacted, but it is SME housebuilders who by far have had to bear the biggest cost of this roller coaster of events.

Profitability

The ever-present issue remains the profitability of sites, or indeed the lack of it in the current climate. My conversations with SME housebuilders reveal their main pain point: land prices and materials cost. On the former, land prices are still too high and have failed to adjust to the changing economic climate. As a result, profit margins on open market consented sites remain depressed, and SME

housebuilders and development funders alike are simply unable to make deals stack up in this new environment.

so steeply over the past 18 months or so and interest rates have followed suit, deals that priced off appraisals from several months ago simply no longer work. Both those factors have sadly torn through the profitability of many residential development schemes. Overall, the housebuilders I speak to tell me that knowing when to sell and when to buy are the two largest challenges they face.

Specialists

As specialist development finance lenders, something we have witnessed over the past few months is developers being very keen to build new relationships with lenders who are able to expertly blend hands on relationship lending with robust numbers-driven due diligence and credit analysis to throw

their substantial financial weight behind experienced SME developers and support

development is a complex multi-phase process with many moving parts. A good developer knows that and understands that the success or otherwise of a scheme often relies on working with a lender who

The events of the past 18 months have showed that many banks’ focus has been farming new business and growing lending increasing desire to work with a lender who will continue to back them on good schemes through the tough times, has led to the rise of specialist non-bank lenders.

If there is one thing that the challenges of the past few months have taught developers the hard way, that is that they need to work with through the cycle lenders with a seasoned property solution driven team who are able to provide the right funding solution come rain or shine.

In the second instalment of our look at development finance, David Alcock, MD at lender Blend discusses why now is a time

BUSINESS SOLUTIONS ESTIMATING SOFTWARE

PERFECT TEN

At HBXL Building Software

HQ we talk to hundreds of builders every week so we understand that the idea of adopting digital estimating can be a big decision. So, when a builder recognises the benefits of the software for their business, the last thing you want is for them to invest in a product that isn’t right for them. This top ten doesn’t include accuracy or being bug free – software should meet those basic criteria out of the box. I’d like to focus on some of the subtler differences.

1. Suitability

Are you a plumbing contractor, for example? Or do you undertake residential building works? Make sure the software can handle the projects you do – different software firms specialise in different works. HBXL’s EstimatorXpress, for example, focuses on small to medium sized building firms undertaking extensions, loft conversions, new homes and renovations.

That said you need the software to be

able to grow with you. Perhaps you are a joinery firm wanting to get into home extensions over time. You therefore need a solution that will go on that journey with you. Or maybe you’re a home extender wanting to go into new builds. So have a think where you want to be in twelve months or two years’ time to avoid having to go through the whole process again!

2. Outputs

What do you need from your software on top of the accurate estimate? A simple

Do you want profit forecasts? Cashflow? Schedules

of materials and labour?

3. UK Market

Most people will begin their search on the web, that’s the world wide web…so you’re going to get a set of search results including products from the States, Canada, Australia…

It’s important to choose a product that uses familiar terminology but more importantly meets UK Building Regs… Does the software run in dollars, Euros or £ sterling? Is it working in feet and inches not metric? And so on.

4. Material prices

You need a package that, as well as working in £s, updates material prices monthly or certainly quarterly. Can you update the material prices in the software easily yourself for any special discounts you might have agreed? Is the software limited to a single builders’ merchant? Is that what you want?

5. User-friendliness

Let’s be clear, business software will always need a little bit of time investment but it shouldn’t be a marathon effort. Put the software through a trial job to see

Joanna Mulgrew, Managing Director of HBXL Building Software, shares her advice on finding the best estimating software solution for your building firm with ten top tips.

how. It ought to be free of charge. I advise you do this when you’re not under pressure to get a ‘real quote’ out. EstimatorXpress is designed for relative software novices. Knowledge of construction is more important than IT skills, but even then we give plenty of construction prompts.

And when you’re putting the software through its paces during a trial, don’t be surprised if the job comes out more expensive than you’d expected. This could be for a variety of reasons. Often, it’s because builders don’t always cost for wastage and theft or damage on site. Then there are overheads and inflation… all these things add up – as do material prices which have seen a huge spike in recent months. So don’t be put off if the price comes in more expensive – the software is doing its job (certainly that’s the case with EstimatorXpress). It’s more likely an accurate reflection of the project – and how much money you should be charging in order to return a decent profit…

6. Time-saving

Once you’re in the swing of things, your estimating software should start delivering you some significant time savings. And with automation built in, such as whole pre-loaded project templates like in EstimatorXpress, you’ll start estimating much more quickly.

And don’t forget the downstream benefits. The estimate is the start. Does it also produce the quote automatically for your client? Do you get automatic schedules of materials, plant and subcontract for free? Does it calculate a Gantt chart (build program) for you? Do you get profit forecasts?

produced from your estimate. Or legal contracts for customers automatically produced from your estimate. Or accounting software. EstimatorXpress links with our other software tools to do just that. And in the case of our PlansXpress software, you draw first, then drop the building plans into EstimatorXpress for an automatic costing. So, look at the bigger time-saving picture.

7. Reputation

Software firms and apps come and go. It takes time and hard graft to run a software company – I know! HBXL has been helping building firms for well over 20 years, so do your research. Has your supplier been around for a while or are they a relative newbie without a UK client base? What do their customers say on Trust Pilot? On Facebook? Any industry accolades or partnerships which cement their position? What’s their status in the market? Do they offer advice and assistance to builders generally, keeping you in touch with the market and changes that will impact your business?

8. Future-proofing

A good software house will have an active development team, devoted to keeping on top of the technology and changes in construction techniques. Are they thinking about the future? Are they thinking about YOUR future? Ways to help you? Do they bug fix? Are there regular updates?

9.

Cost of software

Is it value for money? And by value I don’t mean cheap. Buying cheap tools or cheap paint often equals a substandard job. And the same can be said for software. On the other hand it doesn’t have to be super expensive…but as so often in this life, you get what you pay for. Value also means does it save me time and money? Is it making my life easier?

Today you generally have the choice of having the software on subscription or paying outright to own the software, alongside maintenance contracts. HBXL offer both, recognising that different companies have different purchase requirements.

10. Software support

Do they offer phone support? Or is it email only? How quickly will your technical queries be dealt with? Are you limited to a certain number of enquiries a month? Can they remotely log into your computer to solve an issue? Check their support policy on their website. Do they even have one? Many software companies don’t. What other forms of support do they offer –videos, webinars, workshops, software training courses?

YOU CAN PUT ESTIMATORXPRESS TO THE TEST DURING A FREE 14DAY TRIAL – DOWNLOAD IT INSTANTLY FROM THE HBXL WEBSITE AT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAR018 OR CALL 0117 916 7898 TO BOOK A SHORT DEMONSTRATION.

WHY CHOOSE

The consumer focussed organisation Which? has come a long way from testing kettles out of a garage back in 1957. In fact, a recent survey it carried out suggests that 94% of people in Britain are aware of the organisation and its work. Always aiming to champion the consumer, and hold businesses to account, the Which? Trusted Traders scheme is a part of that proud tradition. Which? describes Trusted Traders as “an endorsement scheme that recognises trustworthy traders across the UK within the consumer home improvement, private motor servicing and repairs industries.” But how can it benefit small builders? And how does it all work?

How it works

Starting with how it works – the assessment portion of the scheme is broken down into four key stages. First, you’ll fill out the Which? Trusted Trader application online and pay the nonrefundable assessment fee. Then, the Which? team will start their assessing, running a credit report, checking the financial health of your business, as well as a trading history report, and a few background checks.

After that, they’ll contact you for a faceto-face visit to your work premises and ask for a few references from previous customers. Finally, provided you’ve passed all of those stages, they’ll send you some feedback to work on and (upon completion) you’ll be endorsed. Which? does pride itself on its vetting process, so this whole assessment period will be a

thorough one. From start to finish, the process should take around 30 days.

The benefits

There could be three main benefits to being endorsed by Which? and becoming a Trusted Trader. One of these is the increased exposure it could give you. After being endorsed, you’re actively encouraged to use the Which? Trusted Trader logo on your marketing materials. This can include anything from business cards to a sign-written van, or your company’s social media platforms, helping you to “stand out from the rest”. The organisation’s logo will catch a prospective customer’s eye and they’ll then associate the Which? household name with you. The firm’s own data suggests that 74% of those asked would be more likely to choose a business if it was endorsed by them. At the same time, Trusted Traders feature

on the website for the scheme, making you visible to new customers. In addition, adhering to a code of conduct –and having that backing – will set clients at ease.

A final way the Which? scheme could help you is through the continued technical support they provide to members. This includes the Alternate Dispute Resolution service, Which? moderated reviews for your business on the website and an account manager to “provide insights into consumer legislation and its business impact”.

Overall, getting the Which? Trusted Traders endorsement does seem like it could help the small builder. It may be a financial investment, with an assessment fee and membership costs, but there are potential benefits in the increased exposure and brand confidence it could provide. There is also no small amount of technical support on offer.

FOR A FULL BREAKDOWN ON THE ENDORSEMENT SCHEME, USE THE RDR LINK BELOW.

Professional Builder’s Edward Kelly takes a look at the Which? Trusted Traders scheme and how it could benefit you.

H O M E IS WHERE THE HEART IS

Through analysing around 1.1 million home improvement jobs, and speaking to thousands of tradespeople, homeowners and homebuyers across the UK, the find-a-tradesperson platform, Rated People, has been able to release its newest yearly report. The Rated People Home Improvement Trends Report has some interesting insights, whilst also representing a useful tool for tradespeople in planning ahead and finding new ways of generating business.

The biggest trends

The biggest new trend is the demand for eco-improvements. In fact, according to the report, nine in 10 UK homeowners who will be doing work to their homes want to adapt them to make them more energy efficient and environmentally friendly. Furthermore, four of the top five eco home improvement jobs that have increased in popularity are related to reducing energy usage. Biomass boilers instals are up by 225% in just two years, for example. Solar panels have seen a 222% rise, and thermal insulation has increased by 143%.

Not only is “going green” becoming more and more important from a planet saving perspective, the current energy

and cost of living crisis makes this an investment that could save people big in the long term. According to the report, 50% of the 90% that are planning ecoimprovements on their property have saving money on their bills as their

With all that in mind, don’t be surprised by an uptake in requests from your clients for better cladding, insulation, or even solar panels. The report also reveals smart meters are a popular install, followed by draught proofing, and

Get the low-down on the biggest home improvement trends of 2023 with the Rated People Home Improvement Trends Report. Professional Builder’s Edward Kelly finds out more.

When looking at why UK homeowners want to adapt their homes, the ‘race for space’ dominated 2021 and 2022. But in 2023, with more people going back into the office to work, and with many of us now spending less time in our homes, space optimisation and maximisation is less important than it has been over the past two years.

The ‘pandemic effect’ is over, and it’s no longer influencing how we’re adapting our homes. Long story short, people want to make their homes fun again. This is all about homeowners repurposing the space they have so jobs like creating better storage, walk-in wardrobes, saunas, home bars, games rooms and playrooms have become more important.

Other insights

The findings also suggest that a growing avenue for business is full renovation projects. The data states that 44% of people who are doing work on their homes are taking on one of these full projects. A lot of this seems to be to do with the current housing market, with 24% saying that they want to renovate to add value to their home. 14% want to because they have less money to buy a home (also tying into the costof-living crisis) and renovation properties are more affordable. This accounts for a lot of first-time buyers, who may be looking for a tradesperson to get this done.

At the same time, the report’s figures also reveal that 41% of homeowners planning on improvements in 2023 will opt for a part update. Not only will this save money, homeowners are also minimising their home’s impact on the planet.

This all being said, there will be some challenges to the home improvement sector this year, with the cost-of-living crisis, and labour and material costs going up. Workforce shortages are continuing to be felt but there are signs that the tide is turning with trade training and enrolments up 40%.

Overall, the Rated People Home Improvement Trends Report is largely reflective of current issues. Namely, the energy and cost of living crises means people want to save money in general as well as on their energy bills. Homeowners are as conscious as ever about their impact on the planet and this is being reflected in their improvement choices.

TO READ THE FULL REPORT AND GET MORE OF AN INSIGHT INTO THE TRENDS THAT MAY BE THE MOST IMPORTANT FOR YOU, CLICK ON THE RDR LINK BELOW. WWW.RDR.LINK/BAR020

BUILDER’S BUILDER’S Professional Professional

We give our verdict on new products in our unique site tests, but now we want to give you the chance to try them – AND KEEP THEM – for yourself! All you have to do to enter the free draws is simply just type in www.rdr.link followed by the unique code.

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5 X THIGH SUPPORT KNEE PADS

TOUGHBUILT

GELFIT FANATIC THIGH

SUPPOR T KNEE PADS

ToughBuilt’s comfortable

GelFit Fanatic Thigh

Support Knee Pads are ergonomically shaped to embrace the knee, upper shin and thigh. The thigh support keeps the knee centred within the pad meaning it never rotates off the knee, whilst the lower platform provides stability and sideto-side agility. It also raises shins off the ground when kneeling, alleviating pressure on the ankles. Protect your knees with ToughBuilt. There are five pairs to give away.

FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAR021

72 ROLLS OF TAPE

BOND IT RESCUE TAPE

72 rolls of Bond It’s Rescue Tape are up for grabs. The toolbox first aid kit, this self-fusing silicone repair tape has infinite uses. It’s waterproof, airtight –with no sticky adhesive – and seals leaks fast. Perfect for emergency repair situations – simply stretch and wrap. Every toolbox should have a roll and you can get your hands on one absolutely free. Simply use the rdr.link below for entry details.

FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAR023

V12

BOB BOOTS

Created in collaboration with Band of Builder s, V12’s BoB safety boot protects on site. Chance of dropped items on your toes or standing on screws? You’re covered. Chance of slipping or falling from ladders? You’re covered. They’ve even got your comfort covered –thanks to a sweat-reducing, moisture-wicking construction and a design specific for those in the trades. Boot out inferior footwear with V12’s BoB safety boot. One of five could be yours.

FOR

3 X SWEATSHIRTS

CARHARTT

SLEEVE GRAPHIC SWEATSHIRT

Cut out the mor ning chill with Carhartts sweatshirts. A traditional cotton blend makes for versatile layering and the manufacturer’s durability and familiar hoodie comfort means you can strap on your tool belt or relax in it with equal ease. A midweight cotton blend offers everyday versatility – it’s roomy for a comfortable fit, allows for maximum range of movement and will look great on site.

FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAR024

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KAPRO

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ASSURED SUCCESS

Bradstone’s national landscaping awards celebrates the very best from its Assured Installers

Paving manufacturer Bradstone has celebrated another year of achievements of its Assured Installers through its annual national landscaping awards. The awards saw ten category winners with a handful of further highly commended and commended runners up, due to the overwhelmingly high standard of competition this year.

Now in its tenth year, the awards comprise of a variety of categories, from Most Challenging Project to Best Driveway, as well as the highly sought after Landscaper of the Year accolade. They are designed to recognise landscapers that have demonstrated excellent levels of workmanship, design

acclaimed Landscaper of the Year category was PB Landscapes of Melbourne, for his continued dedication and support for the Assured Scheme, and the stunning level of workmanship on his projects this year. PB Landscapes has been a member of the Bradstone Assured Scheme since its conception in 2011, and this is the first time they have won the top prize.

Speaking of his win, Paul Bignall, Owner of PB Landscapes, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have been recognised for our workmanship and the quality of our creative landscape designs, especially in such highly a competitive category. It’s no secret that we’ve had our eye on Landscaper of the

is a real highlight in my career and for our business.”

Meanwhile, the recipient of the Employee/Apprentice of the Year award, which was co-judged by the TASK Academy, was Eliot Johnson at Alfresco Landscaping. As well as winning the accolade, Eliot has received two courses of his choosing with TASK, to continue his professional development.

After receiving the award, Eliot commented: “It is such a rewarding feeling to be recognised as Employee of the Year by Bradstone. I would like to thank Alastair for his time and patience mentoring me, and also to my team leaders for giving me the chance to learn and improve. I look forward to future projects and developing

ACROSS THE NINE CATEGORIES, THE BRADSTONE ASSURED NATIONAL AWARD WINNERS ARE:

Winner and Highly Commended: P Halliday Commended: Reece Landscapes

BEST USE OF A NATURAL STONE PAVER

Winner: Goldenstones

Commended: Gardens of Inspiration

BEST DRIVEWAY TRANSFORMATION

Winner: Winslade Landscapes

Highly Commended: D Plumridge

BEST USE OF PORCELAIN

Winner: PB Landscapes of Melbourne

Highly Commended: Forget me Not

Highly Commended: Rouse Landscapes

Commended: Bespoke Outdoor Living

BEST DRIVEWAY

masonry materials & landscaping

BEST

Winner: Patios and Drives

Highly Commended: PB Landscapes of Melbourne

Commended: MK Brookes

Commended: SPH Landscapes

EMPLOYEE/APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR

Winner: Alfresco Landscaping Runner Up: Gardens of Inspiration

MOST CHALLENGING PROJECT

Winner: Goldenstones

BEST PATIO TRANSFORMATION 30-60M2

Winner: Alfresco Landscaping

Highly Commended: Goldenstones

Commended: Owen Thomas

Commended: PB Landscapes of Melbourne

LANDSCAPER OF THE YEAR

Winner: PB Landscapes of Melbourne

BEST PATIO OVER 60M2

Winner: Lee Harvey Designs

Highly Commended: Shane Allsop

Commended: The Garden Saint

Commended: TGB Construction

Peter Montgomery, National Sales Manager for Bradstone, comments: “The awards shine a spotlight on all the talent and expertise in the industry, with the hopes to help our assured members get the recognition that they deserve and to grow their businesses. We have seen a tremendous amount of top tier craftsmanship and creativity this past year – and I pass on my congratulations to all the winners and runners up for working on some amazing projects and transforming outdoor spaces through the Bradstone name.”

Bradstone’s national network of accredited landscaping businesses has met strict selection criteria to ensure only the best and most capable landscaping professionals are recruited. With the Bradstone Assured seal of approval, customers have peace of mind that their garden project will be completed on time, on budget and to a high professional standard. Opting for an Assured Installer will ensure a 10-year guarantee on the manufacturer’s products used, as well as a five-year guarantee on the installation.

TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT BRADSTONE ASSURED VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAR027

PATIO TRANSFORMATION UP TO 30M2

Eliot Johnson

GREAT WALL

There’s now even more options in the Marshalls facing brick portfolio

The recently launched Kingsvale range adds a traditional creased texture to a growing array of finishes in the Marshalls facing brick collection and is available in a variety of colours, providing even more choice.

Aesthetics to suite any scheme

The addition of the Kingsvale range now means there’s a carefully curated range of quality facing bricks available in stock, sand-faced, vintage and creased finishes.

There’s also over 80 colours on offer –from classic reds, browns and yellows to contemporary monochrome shades.

Imaginative home brickwork, with low carbon credentials Marshalls has supplied concrete bricks to prestigious and national housebuilders across the UK. But its concrete bricks can also be used to create stunning features and garden projects. With a range of contemporary and traditional brick options, your imagination will know no bounds.

■ Versatile

The manufacturer’s concrete facing bricks are stocked in builders’ merchants with two forms, four finishes and over 80 facing bricks to choose from there is a brick for any customer brief or requirement.

■ Creating a luxury feature

As part of a private residential self-build project, the customer wished to create a two-storey floor to apex internal feature wall.

In collaboration with EdgeArchitecture and Ark Homes the team designed the layout of a single skin wall, whereby the bricks were laid using a random pattern of headers and stretchers, with the headers cut on-site to halves before being laid. Selected bricks were chosen to protrude to create a contemporary 3D look.

■ Striking garden brickwork

For outdoors spaces that need renovation or rejuvenation garden brickwork can add practicality and a stylish addition to gardens large or small.

In a Kent garden the customer wanted to add a garden wall, planters and to repair water damaged brickwork to garden steps. Using a combination of blue perforated engineering bricks, Langston gold perforated bricks and Islington stock frogged bricks the brickwork additions to the garden created striking features.

The bricklayer on this project appreciated the dimensional consistency that the bricks offered and easy bonding with mortar.

■ More than just facing bricks

Marshalls Bricks & Masonry also offer a wide range of building materials, from reconstituted concrete walling products, dense and lightweight block, commons, slip bricks and engineering bricks.

■ Made in the UK

With all the company’s concrete facing bricks being made in the UK and the only manufacturer adding genuine capacity, builders’ merchants have stock now and can order for larger scale projects.

■ Sustainable

Customer demand for more sustainable materials is increasing and the concrete brick range offers a low carbon alternative. By choosing Marshalls bricks you can expect a total lifetime CO2 reduction of 49.1%. And with concrete bricks naturally absorbing CO2 as they age, there is no better low-carbon brick available.

The concrete-facing brick range from Marshalls offers professional builders a sustainable choice that doesn’t impact productivity.

Here we share two recent projects to provide inspiration and ideas on how to use the versatile concrete brick range.

RING TRUE

Professional Builder follows a Gravelrings installation

John Ridgeway Construction undertook a project to develop an old barn into two modern housing developments. This involved chestnut wooden cladding engulfing the exterior and magnificent glass windows to create bright, airy rooms. The Scandinavian nature of the design creates a welcoming sense of calm and serenity. The light space connects the interior and exterior to form smooth transitions throughout the property. However, the inviting feel diminished when faced with an old concrete driveway. To upgrade the driveway John knew laying gravel over concrete would accomplish the desired aesthetic.

Why lay gravel over concrete?

Fixing a gravel grid on concrete is a timesaving method for revamping an existing driveway. For a successful overlay, the concrete must have enough structural integrity to withstand the weight of gravel grids and vehicular movement. Otherwise, the surface may sink and rut.

Gravelrings were the natural choice of gravel grid for this property since John had used the overlay system in previous jobs. He trusts Gravelrings because the overlay system saves him time on

excavation and laying the grids, which means more installations can be completed. Not to mention the fact that the gravel demand is a lot lower, saving car suffers from an oil spill it is not an issue since the gravel can be easily replaced. With any alternative driveway

“Gravelrings as an overlay system are extremely efficient to lay and no planning permission is required, meaning I can crack on with more installations”

John Ridgeway, John Ridgeway Construction

masonry materials & landscaping

Securing Gravelrings on concrete

This was, however, the first time he had experimented with laying a gravel grid on concrete. Always creative with his approaches, John decided – instead of using a nail gun to fix the gravel grids on concrete – that a Hilti wedge anchor fixing was best to use. To lay a gravel grid on concrete with this method requires a hole to be drilled and a wedge anchor to be hammered into place. Wedge anchors are great for installing Gravelrings on concrete because they have a large head providing a wide contact area to secure the grids in place.

methods, John thought the wedge anchor

method might be preferred amongst domestic installers because nail guns are an investment to keep in the toolkit. Additionally, if an installer does not have one, sourcing one to hire takes up valuable time that could be spent on site. The fact that nail guns are so powerful also makes it uncomfortable for contractors to install gravel grids over large areas since they can cause arm discomfort. With Gravelrings delivered to the site in one square metre panels, John found the installation process was swift and straightforward.

Attractive job

What makes placing gravel over concrete an attractive scheme for homeowners is the

gravel blends into the surrounding natural environment and creates a cohesive appearance. Since the grids lock the gravel in place, preventing stone migration, John knew by installing Gravelrings the homeowners will have a low-maintenance driveway that would not have to be regularly topped up. John was satisfied with the end result of his installation:

“Gravelrings as an overlay system are extremely efficient to lay and no planning permission is required meaning I can crack on with more installations.

TO VIEW THE INSTALLATION PROCESS FOR GRAVELRINGS GRAVEL GRIDS FROM BEAUXFORT VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAR029

Safe Tread anti-slip decking strips are your low-cost solution to dangerous slippery decking

Wooden decking has been a staple for outdoor spaces for decades. When properly looked after, it’s extremely strong and naturally resistant to rot, decay, moisture, and UV damage, making it a perfect solution for external decking.

However, as the weather turns damp, wet and frosty, wooden decking is prone to becoming very slippery, leading to a higher risk of accidents and injuries. Whether it’s a domestic, commercial, or industrial environment, ensuring a non-slip solution should be a top priority

There are a range of products which claim to provide slip-proof decking, but these often vary widely in pricing, maintenance, and ease of use, making it difficult to know which option is best. Many people turn to either anti-slip decking strips, non-slip paint, or anti-slip tape, but what’s your best option?

ON THE SAFE SIDE

SAFE TREAD NON-SLIP STRIPS

Safe Tread anti-slip decking strips are relatively permanent additions to decking. Decking strips are screwed or glued down using a specialist adhesive, directly into the decking and applied at regular intervals, providing a quick and easy solution for improving safety.

The strips are made from either fine or medium grit aggregate, mixed with hardwearing GRP (fibreglass) to ensure a long-lasting and resilient product, and are available either un-drilled or predrilled, supplied with the required screws free of charge.

Application: Easy, some tools required

Dry Time: None (with screws) / ~2 hours (with adhesive)

Re-application required: Lifetime (guaranteed for a min. of 10 years)

Cost per m2: £50-60

Lifetime Cost (+15 years) per m2:

£50-60

Other uses: Concrete, asphalt/tarmac, natural stone, and wood

Pros

✔ Can be fitted in minutes, and requires little (if any) surface preparation

✔ A range of colour options, can be made to a specific colour

✔ Range of widths and lengths available, can be cut to specific size

Cons

✖ Designed as a permanent solution. If using adhesive, difficult to remove

✖ Requires a higher initial investment

✖ Difficult to install without basic knowledge of tools

NON-SLIP PAINT

Non-slip paint or other treatments like anti-slip decking stains and oils usually include an aggregate that creates a non-slip texture. Many are aimed at low-traffic or domestic homes, so if you’re looking for an anti-slip decking paint for use in a commercial or industrial environment, you’ll need to ensure that it’s approved for use by the manufacturer.

Non-slip paint will require some extra prep – you’ll need to ensure the decking is clean and free from loose dirt and debris. Any previous paints or treatments will need to be sanded down to ensure no flaking or bubbling is present, and many anti-slip paints will require an additional primer or sealant.

Application: Roller application, dry weather dependant

Dry Time:

12-24 hours, usually 2-3 coats

Re-application required: 6-12months

Cost per m2: £10-20

Lifetime Cost (+15 years) per m2: £200-450

Other uses: Concrete, asphalt/tarmac, natural stone, and wood

Pros

✔ Great way to rejuvenate old or tired looking wood

✔ Full coverage

✔ Attractive finish

Cons

✖ Labour intensive in prep and recoating

✖ Short-term solution, requires continuing maintenance

✖ Paint can be more susceptible to water pooling, trapping moisture in the wood and reducing its lifespan

ANTI-SLIP TAPE

Unlike non-slip strips, anti-slip tape offers a less permanent solution. Gritted adhesive tape can easily be stuck down

It’s important to apply when the deck is completely dry following thorough cleaning of dirt and debris to ensure best results –the tape won’t work well if applied to damp

WWW.RDR.LINK/BAR030

Application: Easy, no tools required.

Dry Time: None

Re-application required: 1-2 years

Cost per m2: £10-15

Lifetime Cost (+15 years) per m2: £70-140

Other uses: Concrete, asphalt/tarmac, natural stone, and wood

Pros

✔ Low upfront cost

✔ Once removed you don’t need to reprime, though some re-edging may be required

✔ Easily cleaned with hot soapy water

Cons

✖ Removal can be fiddly and may require the use of harsh solvents

✖ Short term option, will require continued re-application

✖ If left in situ too long, tape can lift, causing additional trip hazards

To summarise…

All options will require some simple maintenance throughout the autumn and winter seasons. Regularly removing leaves and other wet debris from decking will stop the build-up of contaminates, which left alone, can continue to exacerbate the issue.

Where gritted paint, grip tape, or matting offer only a short-term solution to the problem and need to be repeated at regular intervals, antislip decking strips are a long-term solution which offer an easy, durable, and low-maintenance option for both residential and commercial decking.

USE CODE PROBUILD10 AT CHECKOUT AND SAVE 10% OFF YOUR ORDER AT SAFETREAD.CO.UK

THE CIRCLE OF LIFE

We all understand the huge pressure the built environment is facing to clean up its act. Everyday building materials are a major source of CO2 emissions, with around 8% of global emissions coming from the cement industry alone. The good news is that the building materials industry can also be a major contributor to a more circular society, and its role in sustainably disposing of waste and byproducts is vital for a greener economy.

The challenge to become Net Zero by 2050 is not something we take lightly. CEMEX is committed to working in partnership with customers and suppliers to help to build a better future, one where we can all do better business, which in turn benefits our built environment, local communities, families and our planet. From the buildings we construct to the materials we select, and the supply chain we use; every step of the process contributes to a more circular economy and a lowercarbon future.

Circular in the round

The best way to combat harmful emissions and reduce waste is for us all to embrace the concept of circularity, which involves finding more ways to reuse materials after their initial life cycle comes to an end. Many of us already do this in our daily business practices without thinking, but there is a huge opportunity to grow this space even further.

Based on the principles of the Circular Economy, our pathway to waste reduction and carbon neutrality starts inside our operations. By 2030, our main objective is to maximise the use of waste within our plants. Globally, during 2021, we managed close to 23 million tons of waste and non-recyclable by-products, which is over 57 times more waste than we sent to landfill.

Our future In action

Through a dedicated approach to delivering sustainable products and services, we are committed to making lower carbon products more accessible for everyone, whilst reducing waste across the supply chain. To drive us and help us to support our customers, our ‘Future in Action’ sustainability strategy is heavily focussed on defining a new era of responsible business for positive change.

UK first carbon neutral ready mix concrete product

In 2020 we launched Vertua, our firstever net-zero CO2 concrete, which is now part of an extensive family of products that includes low carbon cements, concrete, as well as aggregates, admixtures and blocks. We are proud to

be leading this vital movement. Our complete low carbon range now makes it easier to consider environmentally friendly product choices.

Bio-sourced admixtures

Our new range of bio-sourced admixtures are natural, renewable, and locally sourced raw materials which aim to achieve a carbon footprint up to 70% lower than traditional oil-based admixtures. Admixtures are added to concrete mixes to enhance attributes such as strength, workability, and water demand, while reducing related carbon emissions and promoting more sustainable practices. CEMEX Admixtures are the first in the building materials industry to deliver these attributes while utilising bio-based raw materials.

The introduction of our Insularis concrete for energy-efficient renovation delivers energy savings of up to 20% in housing

Richard Kershaw, Technical Manager, CEMEX UK, discusses the business and environmental benefits of circular thinking to build a better future.

projects and thermal bridge reduction of up to 95%, reducing heat loss in colder weather.

The superior thermal performance properties of concrete can provide considerable in-use energy savings over the lifetime of buildings. The energy used in the operation of our homes and buildings is greater than the energy locked in the building fabric. Residential buildings alone are responsible for 25% of UK greenhouse gas emissions. Using housing as an example, the operational CO2 associated with concrete and masonry homes can offset their slightly higher embodied CO2 in just over a decade of use.

ReadyBlock Zero

ReadyBlock Zero, the UK’s first zero carbon concrete block, part of our VERTUA family, has residual CO2 offset to make it a CarbonNeutral® product, in accordance with The CarbonNeutral Protocol. It represents an important and timely step for industry ahead of new legislation and the Future Homes Standard. By 2025, all new homes must produce 75-80% less carbon emissions. Designed to significantly lower carbon emissions by reducing the impact of new build construction, ReadyBlock Zero helps builders and developers to meet the new environmental standards.

Green credentials

As more and more consumers place higher priorities on green credentials, there are significant benefits for builders and construction firms to demonstrate sustainable practice by using environmentally-friendly products, which in turn have been designed and produced to meet the principles of the circular economy.

The quest to reduce waste and use more eco conscious building products and materials can increase the overall profitability of a project, but deciding which products to use can sometimes cause headaches for busy builders against the clock. The payoff can create dividends if you do your homework and switching to low carbon cement and concrete is just one way to get started. The greatest way we can all make a difference is through small changes which can have a significant impact to people, planet and profit over time.

masonry materials & landscaping

BRICKLAYING MASTERCLASSES

Brush up on your bricklaying skills with a brickwork masterclass. The scheme, launched by The Home Building Skills Partnership initiative with NHBC aims to decrease the level of warranty claims on new builds, improve the confidence of the existing

ARTIFICIAL GRASS

AIR from ArtificialGrass.com is an eco-friendly, airpurifying, self-cleaning landscaping solution. One average lawn can contend with over 1 kilogram of nitrogen oxide per year, neutralising the equivalent of a car engine’s emissions running 20 kilometres a day for a whole year.

WWW.RDR.LINK/BAR035

SUSTAINABLE DRAINAGE

SURFACE TREATMENT

Developed for the landscape sector, the ECOPROTEC range includes sealing & protection, cleaning & restoration, and aftercare treatments designed for all types of polished and unpolished natural and artificial stone, porcelain, ceramic,

Following the government’s announcement to make sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) mandatory across England, ACO Water Management is supporting the industry to embed sustainable drainage into designs. The manufacturer has an entire portfolio of drainage and water management solutions as well

When it comes to bathroom installations and refurbishments, wall panels can present a great alternative to tiles. But what can you do to help ensure a 100% waterproof finish and a happy customer, with no call backs?

Wall panels have certainly increased in popularity over the last few years, and it is easy to see why. Presenting a great alternative to standard tiles, wall panels can be quicker and easier to install, with no wet trades required and the ability to fit the panels over existing tiles –especially ideal for bathroom refurbishment jobs. Manufactured from a timber plywood core, wall panels are also incredibly durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain, without the risk of chipping, cracking or a deteriorating grout line.

But wall panels are not to be considered in isolation. To achieve the high-quality finish and – most importantly – the waterproof performance that your customers will expect, it is important to consider the wall panel system as a whole. Indeed, the wall panel itself is just one part of a wider system, with additional components such as steel profiles, sealant and adhesive making up its construction. Just as you wouldn’t install a shower tray without the shower, pipework and screen also (as an example), it is the same for wall panels.

The first item to consider is the profiles. Commonly manufactured from PVC or brushed aluminium, these are cut to size and installed in

WALL OF FAME

system, helping to ensure a watertight seal. Base profiles must be installed in any wet areas, whether sitting between the panel and the floor in the case of a wet room feature, between the panel and bath, or panel and shower tray. Likewise, corner profiles should also be used to ensure a perfect and watertight corner join. Some manufacturers also offer the option of hidden internal corner profiles, helping to deliver a

panels may be manufactured with a reliable tongue and groove joining system, such as Fibo’s unique Aqualock, the use of a hybrid polymer waterproof sealant is essential to achieve the desired system performance. Sealant should be applied to all joints and edges during a wall panel system installation, including between all exposed panel edges and profile channels.

One of the final products to consider, which helps make up the overall wall

it comes to wall panel installations.

battens behind; or adhesive, fixing the panels directly to plasterboard or existing tiles. If the second option is taken, it is clearly imperative that a highquality, high-tensile and waterproof adhesive is used, ensuring a longlasting and durable system performance. One 380ml tube should be used between every three 600mm panels.

It is worthwhile speaking to your wall panel supplier first, as they will often offer the required products and accessories, in addition to the wall panels. This ‘one stop shop’ approach brings with it clear benefits, for rather than having to source the materials from a range of different suppliers, you can

trouble-free installation, using materials and products that have been recommended or produced by the wall panel manufacturer themselves. But that’s not all, for as well as peace of mind, using a manufacturer’s recommended installation method may be a key requirement of the system performance warranty. At Fibo, as well as our high-quality and 100% waterproof plywood wall panels, we also offer a range of profiles and accessories to accompany the system, helping installers achieve the perfect finish every time. From sealant (available in both white and grey) and adhesive to cleaning wipes and spray to help easily remove any excess adhesive or sealant

leading 25-year guarantee, providing both you and your customer with added peace of mind.

PUSHING THE GREEN AGENDA

From swapping fast fashion for charity stores to adopting a more plant-based diet, there are many steps that we are all

area that should certainly not be overlooked is the house’s plumbing system. Whilst the UK Government is actively taking strides towards new

plumbing systems.

Additionally, the hard truth is that some sustainable alternatives are more expensive than their less environmentally friendly counterparts. For certain plumbing parts this can immediately appear to be the case too, tankless water heaters are more expensive than storage heaters, for example and, whilst plastic pipe is less expensive than copper pipe, plastic push- fit fittings can be slightly more expensive. However, the additional money spent on plastic fittings will be saved in the form of reduced water usage and labour-costs.

Plastic push-fit fittings can reduce the complexity in pipework by decreasing the number of connections required, which can save water long term by reducing the chance of leaks.

One example would be the plastic push-fit plumbing manifolds, which by establishing a single central hub as a distribution point for either hot or cold water supplies, simplifies pipework.

Richard Bateman, Product Marketing Manager at RWC, explores how plastic push-fit technology is a step towards a greener plumbing future.

Without the need for additional fittings, a single run can be cabled to an outlet by using JG Speedfit Polybutylene pipe. In addition to limiting leak points, this makes maintenance simple. Seeing as a single leak can lose up to 1,400 gallons of water in 24 hours, you really do want to take as many efforts as possible to prevent them from happening.

The specialised push-fit valve range from the manufacturer, which brings together different functions into one fitting that saves space and installation time is a great way to make a plumbing system greener too. Double check valves combined with service valves for outside taps can save a lot of space under the sink, for instance. There are also leveroperated shut off valves, hand-operated shut off taps, or screwdriver-operated valves that can shut off water supply with a single turn.

The capability to isolate water supplies, inherently reduces the need to drain water off the whole property. This then helps to save gallons of water should servicing and maintenance be required on the plumbing and heating system. Therefore, making for a much greener system overall.

Achieving an environmentally friendly future from every angle

A stellar exemplar of plastic push-fit’s green agenda is the Twist & Lock range, which is also up to 40% faster to install than traditional methods and easier to use in confined spaces by removing the need

demounted in seconds without tools. This is largely due to the fittings’ Grip & Seal collet with stainless steel teeth and its main O-Ring seal. Furthermore, the polybutene plastic is a non-toxic material, that resists both corrosion and scale build-up. This ensures that the fittings are watertight and long lasting, preventing any need for repairs and providing a more environmentally friendly plumbing solution overall. The fittings are available in multiple key bends such as straight connectors, tee tube connectors, and equal elbow connectors.

Outdoor plumbing

Of course, preventing the need for repairs and providing a longer lasting solution is not just a requirement for indoor plumbing systems. Every year, thousands of pounds are spent on repairing outdoor plumbing systems too.

Issues with underground pipework are

been made upon first installation, particularly if using fittings with compression connections; or the fitting can become loose over time, which then causes leaks that are hard to rectify.

These risks are significantly reduced with plastic push-fit MDPE fittings like those in the JG Speedfit range. Like all plastic push-fit fittings, the fitting is sealed by simply pushing the fitting into the pipe, which drastically reduces the chance that the fitting will be insufficiently installed upon first installation.

Underground leaks can be extremely laborious to deal with; ground needs to be dug up to identify problems, which requires specialist machinery. Push-fit MDPE fittings assures a reliable and leakproof seal and that the installation is right first time. This of course makes for a longer lasting and more environmentally friendly system overall. Ensuring that water is conserved for years to come.

Think green, think push-fit

By requiring less repairs from installers, a reduced installation time, and by providing a leak resistant connection, plastic push-fit fittings provide a longlasting and environmentally conscious plumbing solution, which ensures that even the most sustainable of homes can remain so for many years to come.

TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT RWC’S JG SPEEDFIT CLICK ON THIS RDR LINK: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAR038

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PANEL DECISION

without the need for grouting. It’s simple to fit and clean, making it perfect for panelling around the bath.

If you’re looking to create stylish bathroom walls whilst offering your customer a low-maintenance, cost-effective alternative to tiles, Showerwall offers a large choice of stylish designs, which can create a visually striking finish. The hardwearing, waterproof system can create a seamless look

The

Step 1 – Prepare your tools and walls

Typically for this installation you will need a 1,200mm and 600mm Proclick panel to complete the length of the bath; other panels will also be required depending on the area or size of the installation.

Tools you will need include: a tape measure, 1,200mm spirit level, sealant gun, suction cups, masking tape, blade and pencil, jigsaw, power drill, hand saw, circular saw, mitre block and metal saws. Ear protection is also recommended.

The wall panels can be fixed to an existing wall or directly over tiles, providing the surface is flat and plumb. If the walls are not flat, then treated battens must be used to install the panels.

Step 2 – Check your work area

Before undertaking the installation, ensure that all walls are sound, plumb, completely dry, dust free and clean before applying the Showerwall panels. Also check the level of your bath or shower tray.

Step 3 – Begin by installing Sureseal

Sureseal is a four-part system for installations and provides a watertight finish at the base of the panel. To install Sureseal, first measure the length and width of the bath and cut the strips to the appropriate size. Seal the strip to the bath ledge using Showerwall silicone sealant.

Showerwall’s Laminate panels are available in either square edge or Proclick options. Proclick technology is a mechanical tongue and groove system that provides seamless, almost invisible joints. Using the relevant profiles, along with patented Sureseal technology, which prevents silicone breakdown, discolouration and mould, it provides a watertight wall panelling system.

Step 4 - Measure and cut panels to size

The panels may require cutting before installation, so ensure the cutting line is measured and marked before any alterations are made. Take measurements for the height and width of the panel, measuring from Nib A to the ceiling. Remove the protective film from the panel. Then mark and cut the panel to the correct height and width with a hand saw, circular saw or jigsaw, décor side up to avoid chipping. Ensure any holes for pipes or showerheads are made at this point.

Step 5 – Fix the trims and first panel

Fix the internal corner trim to the wall using Showerwall adhesive, ensuring this is level. Measure the width of the wall, allowing 15mm for the corner of the trim and cut the width accordingly. Next, fit the end cap directly to the panel using the sealant. Apply sealant in the channel of the Sureseal strip and corner trim, and apply

6mm beads of adhesive to the walls in zig-zag lines.

To fix the first panel, ensure the bottom edge drops fully into the base channel and slide it into the internal corner trim profile. Remove excess sealant from the front edge of the Sureseal strip, using the Showerwall sealant profiler.

Step 6 – Fix panels two and three

Cut the second panel, removing the tongue edge to fit into the trim. Then cut to size and repeat the sealant and adhesive instructions from the first panel. You can use suction cups if required to fit your second panel.

Ensure the panel is slid neatly into the corner trim and then fix to the wall.

For the third panel, measure from the second panel edge to the wall, remembering to remove the 15mm for the corner trim. When cutting panel three, ensure the measurement is taken from

Proclick system can be installed over the bath by following these simple steps:

Steph Harris, Product Manager at Showerwall, takes us through how to fit its Laminate Collection wall panelling system in an over the bath setting.

the panel edge and not the tongue profile. Fix the corner trim to the cut panel edge using sealant. Apply a small bead of

Finally rotate the panel towards the wall, making sure the tongue is sitting correctly in the groove and then fix to the wall, removing any excess sealant. The corner trim is now in place.

Step 7 – Fit the final panel

Attach the end cap directly to the panel again using sealant. Apply sealant and adhesive to the wall and seal as before. Next, locate panel four neatly into the corner trim before fixing to the wall.

Finally, seal the expansion gap at the ceiling edge to ensure it is watertight. Fill any holes made for pipes or showerheads with sealant, before sealing around the fixtures and fittings. Leave for 24 hours for the sealant and adhesive to set, and it is ready to use.

Once complete you will have a hardwearing watertight system with a 30-year customer guarantee.

The final look

A full installation video can be found here

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■ As part of its Laminate, Acrylic and Custom Collections, Showerwall offers a vast range of designs with style choices ranging from tileeffect designs and replica marble finishes to wallpaperinspired prints. The wall panels are 100% waterproof, easy to maintain and don’t require any grout, making them on average 50% quicker to fit than traditional tiles.

The full collection offers over 100 decors to suit all tastes, with Laminate panels available in 600mm, 900mm and 1,200mm x 2,440mm, Acrylic available in 896mm and 1,200mm x 2,400mm and Compact available in 1,220mm x 2,440mm.

TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT SHOWERWALL’S PRODUCTS VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAR041

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OF THE FIRST WATER

Contamination in the heating system can significantly impact the efficiency, performance and lifespan of the boiler and other key system components. It can be caused by iron oxide sludge caused by the corrosion of steel in the system as well as other metal oxide debris from non-ferrous metals (e.g. copper, brass, aluminium). These contaminants block heating pipes and prevent radiators warming up correctly, causing far more energy to be used. In addition, aluminium components are vulnerable to pitting, which leads to pressure loss and ultimately system failure.

Limescale, especially in hard water areas, forms on surfaces within the system, including vital components such as the heat exchanger and pump. British Water estimates that just a 1.6mm coating of limescale on a heating element can reduce boiler efficiency by up to 12%.

Efficiency and longevity

Since June 2022, the BS 7593:2019 British Standard for the installation, commissioning and maintenance of domestic heating systems forms part of the legal requirements of Part L of the Building Regulations in England. This means that all new homes, or new heating installations in existing properties, must comply with this guidance.

Part L now requires the system to be cleaned fully, dosed with a high-quality inhibitor to prevent the formation of sludge and limescale, and the boiler further protected from circulating debris with an inline system filter. This must then be maintained with regular servicing and maintenance, including tests of the system water to check inhibitor levels.

Cleaning

A high-quality chemical cleaning solution will effectively remove sludge, scale and debris. For heavily contaminated installations, it may also be advisable to carry out a powerflush to ensure the system is cleaned thoroughly. New systems should also be cleaned as part of the mandatory Part L prescribed commissioning process to remove any installation debris and other contaminants.

Guard and Protect

Once cleaned, dosing the system with a high-quality inhibitor will prevent the formation of sludge and limescale build up by chemically protecting metal

surfaces. Some inhibitors, such as Fernox Protector F1, feature enhanced pH buffering to ensure the pH level remains between 6.5 and 8.5, which is the optimum range to prevent corrosion in mixed metal systems.

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An inline system filter should also be fitted – and this is now a mandatory requirement of Part L of the Building Regulations for England. An inline filter will protect and guard the boiler and

Richard Crisp, Head of Chemistry at Fernox, looks at the importance of ensuring high quality system water

debris will ensure more effective protection of the system. This will help deliver both improved energy performance and system longevity. For example, the Fernox TF1 Sigma Filter and TF1 Omega Filter achieve this with a unique combination of a powerful neodymium magnet and Hydronic Particle Separation (HPS) technology.

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In addition, for systems with a lower flow temperature, such as those with a heat pump, microbiological protection is also required. At these temperatures, typically between 35°C –55°C, microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi will thrive. This not only poses a health risk but can also cause accelerated degradation through Microbiologically Influenced Corrosion (MIC) and reductions in system performance due to the formation of biofilms. On these lower temperature systems, a biocide should be added to the heating system water. The biocide will kill the microbes by altering the cell wall permeability and interfering with biological processes.

Maintenance

A heating system should be serviced and maintained at least every 12 months, to ensure it remains contaminant free and continues to function as efficiently as possible. This should include cleaning of the filter to remove the captured sludge and debris as well as a check of the inhibitor levels using an on-site test, which is required by Part L. The Fernox Express Inhibitor Test, for example, provides a quick and easy method of checking the concentrations whilst on site, with a simple dip test on a sample of the water. If the levels are not sufficient, inhibitor can be added, and the system retested to check the concentration with no return visit needed.

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In addition, every five years the system should be either redosed with inhibitor or a full laboratory analysis of the system water conducted. This can be completed relatively simply with test kits such as the Fernox Water Quality Test. Installers simply collect a sample of the system water and send it to the laboratory for a full analysis and report of key system water parameters. With the Fernox kit, results are returned within 48 hours and all samples and results can be managed through an intuitive mobile app.

WWW.RDR.LINK/BAR046

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ABOUT FERNOX AND ITS RANGE OF PRODUCTS WWW.RDR.LINK/BAR047

MAKING ROOM

Sarah Evans, Head of Product Marketing at Hansgrohe UK,

looks at the solutions that ensure a wet room can be specified in a wide range of properties.

Installing a wet room has remained an ideal choice for those wanting to add impact to their homes and create spa-like experiences at home. Wet rooms are also a popular choice for those wanting to create space in the bathroom, especially when this is limited. What’s more, as multi-generational living continues to grow in popularity, level access showering offers an attractive solution for those needing to cater for a variety of ages too.

Prepping the floor effectively

Planning is vital when designing or starting a wet room project, to avoid creating the need for avoidable repairs or having to take floorboards up unnecessarily.

Wet rooms remove the need for a shower tray, so preparation of the floor level is the first consideration. Opting for a tanking system that can be adapted to cover the area under the tiles means a wet room can be specified for a wide range of showering spaces and properties, even those where joists may previously have limited the installation possibilities.

The latest UK Floor Formers range from hansgrohe, for instance, have been designed with the timber flooring that so often appears in UK domestic properties, in mind. This includes a range of sloping boards, plus side extension panels, which enable simple and effective preparation of the entire floor area ahead of tiling.

Removing excess water

Effective drainage is also a must for a level access space and will be a key question that customers will have when

embarking on a wet room project. The latest drainage systems can provide solutions that combine both function and style in one simple step. Some, such as hansgrohe’s RainDrain have the added benefit of being able to fit seamlessly into the design and follow the finish across all fixtures, whether Chrome, Matt Black, or Polished Gold Optic.

The linear design of hansgrohe’s RainDrain means it can be dropped into the floor for a flush finish and tiled around for a sleek overall look. As well as adding

Installation considerations

When working with timber flooring, it’s important to first identify the direction and location of the joists before installing the drain system. Stud detectors can also prove useful here to look for the voids without having to take up floorboards unnecessarily.

RainDrain can be used in conjunction with a specially-designed, concealed base set – the uBox Universal – which will fit neatly between joists. With an adjustable height, it can be used for most wet room

quickly too.

When fitting pipes into the drainage system, such as the uBox universal, be prepared for existing pipe discrepancies. For longevity and security for the homeowner, using solvent weld fittings when connecting waste pipes is recommended for a secure fitting. The uBox comes with an adapter to ensure it can be tailored to fit to the relevant UK pipework and, for additional peace of mind, is supplied with a factory preinstalled seal liner that is incorporated into the composite seal to prevent water damage.

The chosen linear drain finish set can then be selected to match the shower unit, taps and accessories. In the case of RainDrain Rock, the finish set can also be tiled to blend seamlessly into the floor for a truly coordinated finish.

There may be occasions where the installation height is low and uBox proves too deep. Again, options exist to overcome this situation with the addition of a simple floor drain. For example, using a product such as RainDrain CompactClean from hansgrohe, allows the drain to be dropped into the floor and connected to existing pipework without the need for the uBox.

Safety and Performance

Safety and practicality must also be a priority when it comes to specifying bathroom products that will work for multiple generations alike.

A thermostatic shower control is a

must to avoid fluxes in temperature, providing protection against unexpected hot or cold-water spikes. Yet, it is possible to go beyond this and build a space that not only looks great but incorporates elements that will offer benefits for all concerned.

To ensure the experience lives up to the aesthetic, suggesting customers opt for a shower that allows them to adapt the spray patterns is a simple recommendation that can make a dramatic difference when catering for multiple age groups.

Products that give the choice to alter the intensity of the water and even the droplet formation can help provide a gentle flow of water for those with more delicate skin.

PowderRain is incorporated into many hansgrohe products. Its micro spray technology is much finer than conventional shower jets and is designed to envelop the body in a gentle cocoon of water. As it includes six-outlets per nozzle, it transforms the spray into thousands of micro droplets, imitating misty rainfall. For those looking for a more energising showering option, the intuitive Select button can be pushed to easily turn the shower spray into a more powerful Rain experience, or a massaging jet of spray to help relieve tension or stress. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT THE DEDICATED HANSGROHE WEBSITE FOR INSTALLERS: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAR048

BREEZE THROUGH

Arecent survey by TrendMonitor and the Bathroom Manufacturers Association found that bathroom budgets have increased significantly to roughly £7.5k. With this increased budget comes higher expectations so it’s important that builders can offer customers what they want when refurbing a bathroom or adding an en-suite to a property. With any bathroom renovation, ventilation is key to ensuring good indoor air quality (IAQ) and freedom from condensation and mould. So, what should builders recommend to their customers?

Bold aesthetics

An increased focus on interior design is driving improved aesthetics of everything in the home, including the bathroom, with black interiors showing no sign of decreasing in popularity. Ventilation has traditionally been available in white but there are fans out there, such as VentAxia’s Lo-Carbon Svara, that are also available in black meaning greater choice for the consumer and more options for matching their ventilation to their aesthetic. For customers preferring a silent aesthetic, the Vent-Axia Silent Fan now has a discrete tile-like version while the PureAir Sense offers minimal styling, clean lines and an optional cover that complements any modern bathroom or spathroom.

Spathrooms

Spa-inspired bathrooms are an increasingly popular option where people can escape the stresses of busy lives and chill out in the bath. Creating an oasis of calm is essential and so a noisy extractor fan is a definite no-no. So where should you start? There are many fans on the

market that claim to be quiet but what actually is quiet when it comes to fan noise?

A good place to start is to check the sound level in decibels [dB(A)]. An average extract fan operates at 35dB(A). This is loud in a confined space. Fortunately, there are now fans on the market that are only slightly louder than the sound of a pin

the market, offering ultralow sounds levels of just 12dB(A). Another way to check is to look for fans that have been awarded a Quiet Mark, the independent global certification programme associated with the UK Noise Abatement Society charitable foundation, which recognises the quietest solutions to unwanted noise.

Install

However, when choosing which quiet fans to stock, builders should not just look at sound levels since there are other factors to consider. Although silence is a really big driver for households, it may not be the only box to tick on a wish list. As a result, manufacturers have been adding to their quiet fan ranges to offer increased flexibility and choice for households.

For example, with the Silent Fan range there are now 17 models to choose from including an IPX5-rating, variable speed models, humidistat options and both intermittent and continuous ventilation models and the option of open and closed grilles. Variable speed models make installation easier since electricians can simply adjust the speed depending on the individual needs of the project, ensuring the right fan every time. And the Silent Fan stays quiet even with longer duct runs and higher air flow.

With consumers spending more than ever on updating their bathrooms, Lena Hebestreit, Marketing Manager from Vent-Axia, examines the current bathroom trends and explains why ventilation is so essential to this.

Health and well-being

Households are now more aware than ever of the air they breathe because the pandemic highlighted the importance of IAQ and ventilation in buildings due to the airborne transmission of the COVID-19 virus. This means consumer demand for fans that make a real difference to IAQ are an essential. While many fans effectively improve IAQ, there are smart fans that offer app control so that households can control their ventilation as well as a host of other clever features.

For example, an innovative app available with the Lo-Carbon Svara and Vent-Axia PureAir Sense allows households to control their ventilation from the comfort of their sofa unlocking a whole range of different functions to control their home’s IAQ, such as a silent scheduling and automatic cycles, offering flexible ventilation to suit a household’s lifestyle. Furthermore, the PureAir Sense

IAQ, the fan increases airflow when the sensor detects that air in a home is poor, creating a comfortable living environment. With aesthetics, low noise levels and good IAQ all remaining increasingly important in bathroom design, ventilation

prove popular with households. Builders who can offer these ventilation options as part of a bathroom renovation are sure to impress customers.

THE FORECAST –SHOWERS!

The bathroom is no stranger to technological innovations and in recent years, such tech advancements have evolved, granting us great opportunities. With solutions now in place to improve personalisation, accessibility, and sustainability and overall user experience, there’s little room not to utilise these options, with it being integral the industry keeps up to date with emerging trends and consumer demands.

Sustainability

We’re more aware than ever of our impact on the planet and coupled with the global cost of living crisis and the rising costs of household bills, it’s not surprising that many consumers are looking for conscious consumption, resource saving benefits, and value for money.

Many shower systems and showerheads now available are equipped with watersaving technology. One such example is the GROHE ‘EcoJoy’ technology which couples flow restricting mousseurs and a CO2 infused spray with technology that allows equal flow of water from each nozzle in the shower head. As a result, water usage is reduced whilst still guaranteeing a high-performing shower experience.

By pairing thermostatic mixers with water-saving showerheads, users can enjoy the best in sustainable showering. With thermostatic technology, thermostatic bar mixers provide precise temperature control and corrects temperature fluctuations within a fraction of a second by continuously mixing hot and cold water to reach the desired water temperature,

meaning water wastage through running the shower while adjusting the temperature is a thing of the past. Premium thermostats can go a step further to support with eco-friendly benefits. As technology has advanced, there’s now models available that come with an ‘EcoButton’ that allows users to efficiently switch between eco-flow and full-flow, depending on individual preference.

Personalisation

As trends have shifted, the bathroom is now not just considered as the functional room to keep ourselves clean but also one that can promote personal health and wellness. This shift in behaviour has led to concealed showering valves becoming increasingly sought after. This offers both the practical benefits of additional space

support the look of a concealed system has evolved too. GROHE launched the first system to offer three outlets all from one rough-in and one trim set rather than two. This has made high performance concealed showers more accessible to the mass market. The demand for concealed products is continuing to grow

Paul Baily, Leader, Product Management, at leading bathroom manufacturer, GROHE, discusses how technology advancements are paving the way when it comes to showers.

appreciate the benefits of a high-quality shower, what is considered the perfect shower experience varies from one consumer to the next and a focus on personalisation is therefore the most effective way to ensure consistent satisfaction.

As a digitally connected world, it’s only right that we see digital innovations move into the bathroom and shower market. Many manufacturers have introduced showers that benefit from enhanced personalisation and control thanks to the power of app connectivity and Bluetooth technology. GROHE offers its Rainshower SmartConnect 310 showerhead, a retrofit solution which is Bluetooth connected and comes with a wireless remote control, allowing the user to switch between two luxurious spray patterns. The innovative Bluetooth remote control has up to four years battery life, and being free from mains connection or additional wires, allows it to be placed in any position within the shower cubicle.

Accessibility

The rise of mixed generations living together has seen the market for inclusive bathrooms develop, with new innovations in the showering sector becoming available. Manufacturers are continuing to focus on thermostats which can balance temperature fluctuations within fractions of a second, as well as providing

integrated technology which ensures the outer surface of the mixer stays cool to the touch. For example, GROHE thermostats are equipped with CoolTouch technology, which is an innovative cooling channel that creates a barrier between the hot water and outer surface so that it is never too hot to handle.

Elsewhere, manufacturers have developed technology that allows users to set a fixed limit for the water temperature. This offers ultimate protection against scalding, giving parents and older generations peace of mind and the freedom to shower independently.

Wetrooms are also becoming an increasingly popular shower design choice, providing more scope for innovation, with these installations having the potential to become a haven for different technologies. FOR

Save time, make money all year with the reliable, easy to use and clean, pneumatically powered, vibration free Pnu-Point pointing tool.

plumbing, bathrooms & wetrooms

ELECTRIC SHOWERS

Electric showers designed for safe and environmentally friendly performance is how Aqualisa describes its eVOLVE range. The product comes in three power options and only uses the selected energy and water flow. Each model has a 1,500mm hose, over temperature protection system and phased shut-down technology to minimise limescale build-up.

SHOWER CASHBACK PROMOTION

Customers can claim up to £100 cashback when purchasing an eligible shower system from bathroom and kitchen manufacturer, GROHE. The promotion will run from March 1st to June 30th 2023 and is available across over 20 products including the Rainshower SmartControl Duo 360.

EFFICIENT HEATING PUMPS

COMPACT BATHROOM RANGE

VitrA Bathrooms has launched a range for those working in small spaces. There are a variety of sizes, including narrow cabinet widths and reduced projections. The storage options available include shelves in two sizes and open shelving in the mirrors and mid-units. The furniture is made from plywood with a water and moisture-resistant finish and is available in three colours.

With cold snaps causing breakdowns in old heating systems, Wilo is calling on installers to fit modern pumps like those in the YONOS PICO line. These can save as much as 80% in energy and money in the long term. The company asserts the small footprint design and pictogram displays can help installers save time in fitting, commissioning GET

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BATHWARE

The Belmont bath model from PJH is now available in a Matt Blue finish. Customers can opt for either a free-standing bath shower mixer or wallmounted bathing brassware. The acrylic model has a pure white interior and 245-litre water capacity. Pre-fitted integrated waste is also included as well as a 20-year quality guarantee.

GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAR053

TAPS

Murray – a range of single lever, Italian-designed kitchen taps – has been launched by Prima. The mixer tap features 45°-quarter turn handle operation and 360° swivel spout, whilst a pull-out spout is also available. The range also operates from a minimum pressure of just 0.7 bar and a five-year guarantee underlines quality and durability.

CIRCULATOR PUMPS

BOILING WATER TAP

The stainless-steel Vito 3-in1 boiling water tap from Hotspot Titanium uses no-touch functionality to keep the kitchen hygiene friendly. The 4 litre Titanium water storage tank helps resist limescale build up and should extend the system’s life. Safety parameters for water temperature can be pre-set and

Replacing circulator pumps in central heating systems with newer, more efficient models, like those from Grundfos, could save the world around 53.5TWh of energy each year – the equivalent of the annual energy consumption of Portugal. With the rising cost of energy bills, this would deliver improvements economically and environmentally.

HAPPY FEET

From extreme temperatures to falling objects, foot injuries are among the most common injuries to construction workers. Thankfully, safety footwear product development is gaining new ground and mitigating risks through intelligent design, clever technologies and high-quality materials.

Equipped for the elements

Extreme weather is a major challenge for construction workers and slip-resistant footwear is essential. A rough, selfcleaning tread can provide good grip on uneven terrain and even on ladders or smooth surfaces. Preventing water from entering the footwear is vital, too. Having wet feet not only causes discomfort but the friction can lead to rubbing, sores and blisters. The dampness within the footwear creates a breeding ground for bacteria, too, which can lead to rashes, fungus and athlete’s foot.

New technologies have been developed to tackle these problems. For example, uvex waterstop technology – as featured in the new uvex 2 construction

without compromising breathability. Having fewer seams on the upper and the design of the tongue also help keep water and dirt out.

Hot or cold feet, meanwhile, cause discomfort and can also lead to blisters, fungal infections or even mild

and returning it to the wearer. This results in the wearer exerting less energy throughout the day. The outsole features a tread pattern intended to stabilise yet flex with the natural rolling motion of the foot to provide freedom of movement.

Shock-absorbing foams can also encase the ankle area to protect against painful impact, while lace-locking mechanisms keep tension in the laces and increase support and ankle stability. Anatomically shaped heel baskets, meanwhile, provide stability and protection against twisted ankles, especially on uneven surfaces.

Metatarsal protection

A penetration-resistant steel midsole that protects against nails and sharp objects is vital, as is a steel or composite (metalfree) toe cap. Where there is a risk of heavy objects falling, metatarsal protection for the top-of-the-foot region may also be required.

Stress relief

Research into the hardship placed on joints from standing and walking on hard surfaces has facilitated the development of new shock-absorbing technologies that reduce the stresses on the body and improve comfort and safety.

The new uvex 3, for example, has an ergonomic two-layer sole made of a newly developed polyurethane that provides cushioning and slip-resistance. uvex iPUREnrj technology cushions the foot and provides increased stability by recovering the landing energy from across the sole

Ultra-flexible metatarsal protection materials mould to the shape of the foot, giving the wearer complete freedom of movement and without adding to the boots overall weight. The material on top of the foot hardens upon impact to absorb and dissipate the energy, returning to its flexible, free-flowing state afterwards. The ultra-flexible D3O® technology used in the new Heckel MACCROSSROAD 3.0 S3 HIGH META safety boot is one example of this.

Clair Weston, head of marketing at uvex examines the latest footwear developments helping to keep workers safe on construction sites.

GETTING A GRIP

Vahe Der Kureghian, Managing Director of ToughBuilt’s European operations, explains some of the manufacturer’s safety innovations

ToughBuilt continues to develop hand tools and job site solutions that enable professional users to increase their productivity. This commitment isn’t simply about helping the pro user to increase their work rate and output. It’s also about helping them to maximise their health, safety, comfort levels and overall wellbeing.

Our #KneelSmartKneelSafe campaign, for example, will be familiar to the vast majority of people in the construction and related industries. This coordinated programme of activity draws on our expertise as a globally leading manufacturer of kneepads to champion better knee protection in order to reduce some of the tens of thousands of workrelated knee injuries incurred in the UK each year.

But it doesn’t end there because we’re also at the forefront of ensuring safer working practices through greater dropped object prevention.

Workplace killer

According to statistics published by the Health & Safety Executive, being stuck by a moving object – including those that are falling after being dropped – continued to be one of the top three workplace killers in 2021/2022. During the same period, falling objects also contributed to some 70,000 reported non-fatal injuries.

Of course, the risks posed by dropped objects increases with height. A 2kg hammer dropped from a height of just 5m will have an impact force of over 1 tonne by the time it reaches ground level. That’s the equivalent of having a small car or a large animal like a bison dropped on top of you.

Plus, dropped objects don’t just pose a risk to people. They can also cause damage to items and surfaces in the impact area as well to customer relations and business reputations.

Something as innocuous as a drill bit,

for instance, dropped from ceiling height onto a bath, can cause damage which needs to be repaired by a surface treatment specialist. This delays project completion times, incurs additional costs and erodes margins.

ClipTech

– a simple solution

Research has shown that around half of all dropped object incidents can be attributed to human error, such as operator error or lack of awareness, and there are many ways they can be prevented.

One simple and effective option is to opt for products from the ToughBuilt ClipTech range. This range offers a full ecosystem of interconnectable belts, suspenders, pouches, tool holsters, bags and much more. It employs patented technology, including our ClipTech Hub, to offer flexiblity for the user.

easily tailor the items they carry on their

rig to suit whatever particular task they are dealing with. They also enjoy the total peace of mind of knowing that once attached, the item will stay securely in place.

In addition, all ClipTech pouches and accessories benefit from No-Snag hidden seams, a rugged 6-Layer Construction and heavy-duty rivet reinforcement. Like all ToughBuilt products they also come backed by a two-year guarantee as standard with the opportunity to extend this to 25-years if users register their purchase.

Given the far-reaching consequences of dropped object incidents, choosing this drop prevention solution isn’t just a prudent decision. It could actually be the best investment you’ve ever made.

COMPACT DRILLS

Festool is expanding its range of compact drill/screwdrivers with the CXS 18 and TXS 18. Both are 18V drills that use a powerful brushless EC-TEC motor. They are half the size and 80% lighter than a standard drill chuck, while still packing a punch. They can drill up to 35mm and screw up to 6 x 240mm in softwood.

TOOL SAVINGS

Following the success of the promotion last year, Carl Kammerling International has announced the return of Fusion, offering discounts of up to 85% and deals on more than 200 product lines. After making an initial sign-up purchase, deals will be applied to every order. The bigger the purchase, the bigger the reward. The promotion started in February and will run to 27th May.

WORK JACKETS

Stay protected against the elements with Carhartt’s Super Dux Jacket collection. All of the jackets in the collection have the company’s Rugged Flex, Rain Defender and Wind Fighter technology. The relaxed fit Sherpa Active Jacket from the range uses super duck fabric that is 35% lighter than traditional duck material as well as 3M Thinsulate™ for extra warmth.

POWER TOOLS

A 40VMax Brushless Mixer and 40VMax Brushless Impact Driver are the Latest additions to Makita’s XGT collection. The UT001G XGT mixer features a 220mm diameter blade, Soft Start and variable speed control. The TD003G XGT delivers up to 4,100 impacts per minute and has a range of specs making this the

most powerful cordless impact driver yet.

TOOLS & EQUIPMENT

ECO-FRIENDLY WORKWEAR

Having used recycled materials where possible, the Eco Worker Collection from Scruffs is sustainably sourced. The team behind the collection asserts they have worked with real tradespeople and skilled professionals to develop products that meet all the quality, durability and performance standards tradespeople need. The new breathable range includes a T-Shirt, Polo, Sweatshirt and Hoodie.

WWW.RDR.LINK/BAR065

COMPATIBLE GARDEN TOOLS

Aspire is the first range from Husqvarna to support the Power for All battery solution. This innovation enables end users to use the same 18V battery for multiple devices in and around a property or garden, regardless of manufacturer. The new range includes a robotic mower, walk behind mower, grass trimmer, pruner, hedge trimmer and blower.

WOOD SCREWS

Following the updates made to the UK Building Regulations for roof insulation, Spectre has launched two new sizes of screw. These longer screws accommodate the need for thicker insulation, providing a more secure grip. So far, they come in 6.0 x 200mm and 6.0 x 240mm sizes with many more on the way.

WWW.RDR.LINK/BAR067 GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAR068

WORK TROUSERS

With as many as 40,000 stitches, and up to 64 pieces of fabric in a single pair of Snickers

Workwear trousers, a lot of work has gone into each garment. They are ergonomically designed for maximum comfort, freedom of movement and functionality. There’s also a large catalogue of choice, with over 80 different styles, including full stretch slim fit and street-smart regular.

INTERNAL AFFAIRS

The building industry has faced big challenges over the last year. From a surge in demand and global supply shortages, to soaring interest rates and inflation, plus a record hike on the cost of construction materials, it has been a turbulent time for builders and manufacturers to manage effectively.

With a UK recession looming, some professionals may be worried about work drying up. However, while industries such as hospitality, retail, and tourism will suffer as consumers tighten their belts, our research suggests that the construction industry won’t suffer quite as much, with homeowners stating they want to proceed with renovation plans despite economic uncertainty.

Ben Brocklesby, Director at Origin, talks to Professional Builder about why homeowners won’t scrap plans to update their homes and explains how builders can help their customers make the most of their budgets.

Reprioritising budgets

It will be a relief to know that 70 per cent of homeowners still want to push forward with renovation plans, according to Origin research. While budgets may be tighter, they have re-prioritised spending to ensure they can create a living space to suit their needs. The reason for this is a newfound appreciation for the benefit homes have on our health and wellbeing.

Building a happy home

Sarah Weir, CEO of the Design Council, explains this shift in mindset in her report, ‘A public vision for the home of 2030’: “We have become more acutely aware of how well or not our homes enable us to function – to work well, care for others, stay connected with friends and family, and keep healthy and happy. The pandemic has brought into sharper focus the critical importance of homes in meeting both our physical and emotional needs.”

Natural light plays a vital part in fulfilling these needs. It improves mental health, sleep, and cognitive performance. Origin research shows that homeowners are three times more likely to believe their home is bad for their wellbeing if it lacks natural light.

working from home, the rise of ‘closed plan living’ poses a threat to the flow of

Origin explains how you can build a strong reputation in a challenging market

light within homes. Separating spaces with solid walls and doors creates a barrier between rooms, but the Origin Internal Door (OI-30) is a clever solution. Available in over 150 RAL colours, the sleek internal glazed door elegantly divides spaces without compromising natural light.

All systems in the Origin Home Range offer ultra slim sightlines to maximise the light flow through a home. Made bespoke from high-grade aluminium, the range is ideal for use in all property types, from heritage buildings to modern new builds.

Reputation above all Reputation is key. Origin research shows that 100 per cent of homeowners are more likely to purchase from companies with a good reputation and brands they trust to deliver high quality products and superior customer service. Despite budgets being

runs without a hitch. Our priority is to protect our Partners’ reputation and help them deliver the best performing systems and service to meet homeowner needs.

Homeowners want products that stand the test of time, which is why we offer an industry-leading guarantee of up to 20 years on our bespoke systems that have all been made in Britain. We also offer

Glazing

on demand

Project delays can cause serious damage to reputation, timescales, and budgets. Origin’s unique ‘Your Lead Time, Not Ours’ zero lead-time service means our Partners can dictate when systems are delivered, even if that’s required in as little as 24 hours, so they never miss an install day.

Although homeowners will be more cautious with their budgets, it’s positive news for the building trade to know that home renovations remain a priority. Quality products and service excellence that demonstrate value will be vital as savvy homeowners opt to only spend with companies they trust. Working with reputable suppliers and manufacturers that offer unrivalled levels of service and products that stand the test of time is now more important than ever before.

A ROOM WITH A VIEW

Keylite roof windows are the finishing touch to a countryside retreat in the Welsh countryside.

Nestled within the foothills of the Brecon Beacons National Park is the five-star luxury self-catering holiday accommodation, Brecon Retreat. What was once an old barn, then a bunkhouse, is now three stunning properties featuring twenty Keylite roof windows that frame the stunning Welsh countryside.

Business and property owner, Helen Howarth set out with the aim of creating a holiday environment that would encourage guests to fully immerse themselves in nature and relaxation, embodying the values of Green Tourism every step of the way.

Helen comments: “The views from the barns are really spectacular, so we incorporated the Keylite roof windows to frame the view perfectly in every room. I really wanted my guests to be able to look out at their surroundings from the comfort of their bed – at one point I was even measuring out the imaginary bed, so I knew exactly where to position the roof windows and furniture!”

Brecon Retreat has been awarded a gold award by Green Tourism –largest sustainable certification programme of its kind. Not only for encouraging guests to spend time in the countryside local to the Retreat, but also down

to the very foundation of the properties. The three barns have achieved a carbon free footprint thanks to a biomass log boiler and ground source heat pumps, which, in turn, have also given the properties a great thermal value.

One of the main benefits of a Keylite roof window is its Integrated Expanding Thermal Collar. One of the biggest culprits for heat loss in roof windows is not double glazing like many believe but is what happens in the gap between the frame and the roof. This ensures minimal heat is lost through the roof windows and supports the properties’ thermal value, as well as not costing

Park is a dark sky reserve, meaning it’s important for anyone in the surrounding area to keep light pollution to an absolute minimum. To aid this, Helen installed the company’s accompanying blackout blinds for each of the roof windows, which not only blocks light coming in and out of the building, but also help to reduce heat loss by at least 20% thanks to the thermal fabric used.

Helen continues: “The blackout blinds are also fully electric, meaning my guests don’t even have to get up to open the

to 24 people. It was bright yellow with green/teal windows that you couldn’t see out of due to the poor design. More concerning the bunkhouse did not have any means of fire escape either, through any windows on the first floor, an essential issue which had to be addressed.

“I carried out the architecture and interior design myself with a lot of help from local builder, Mathew Fergusson, who I have worked with before on my own house, which won an LABC Building Excellence Award! After 2 or 3 versions of the plans, Mathew and a team of local trades got started on the vision of turning the one property into three purpose-built luxury holiday homes.

“The entire building was taken back to just four walls and went through a complete re-design. Even the outside walls were sandblasted back to the original stone, which we were shocked to find had been plastered over and scored to look like brick. The builders cleaned, rebuilt and added to the outside of the property with dry stone walling which blends everything together beautifully.

“Both the builder, Mathew, and our local builders’ merchant, B Jenkins & Sons, highly recommended Keylite Roof Windows for their reliability, most importantly the compliance for a statutory building Fire Escape Roof Window. These had to be top-hung and opening to a 45° angle, providing a safe escape route in an emergency situation.

“The three barn conversions, named The Old Shearing Shed, Nature’s Rest and Alpaca Lookout, sleep between two and four and all boast two floors of open-plan luxury living spaces, a private heated garden spa room and hydrotherapy spa bath. Sat on a 25-acre site, guests can even sit back and watch the resident alpacas and sheep in the small holding just outside. All the accommodation is super dog friendly too, so no one gets left behind.”

SMART THINKING

These days there’s smart everything and that now includes windows and doors. Quickslide’s Ade assesses the latest security solutions

Central locking on our motors is something that we take for granted. Our vans, trucks and especially our cars – except the most basic models – all come with a neat little ‘fob’ that, at the very least, allows us to lock and unlock the vehicle as we approach or leave it, with the simple press of a button.

That is also true of workplaces: entering an office building, and even factory spaces, has long been possible through a keypad at the most basic end of the scale but for many, increasingly sophisticated devices and technologies, including smart phones to allow entry or to secure, at even the most security conscious premises.

And yet doing the same thing for our homes remains virtually unknown. All that is changing, however, and you need to get smart and gen up on an ever-increasing array of gadgets available to enable doors to be unlocked and locked, directly on the premises but also remotely via apps, in addition to monitoring windows to ensure they are secured, although they may not be remotely locked.

My team and I have recently needed to re-assess our own position regarding smart security on our own products and I can share the processes by which we made our choices with you now.

Whilst ‘smart’ door and window

ONSITE WITH

security for homes has been around for some time it is only relatively recently that interest from homeowners has gathered pace to the point where you may well be asked for it. Most hardware brands have a smart option, usually door locks that may be operated by a tag or fob, but most likely via an app on a smart phone. Windows are also covered by smart hardware but only monitoring to ensure they are at least closed: I don’t know of any window hardware that will actually lock windows just yet.

Many of the products available may replace existing multi point locks, whilst others require special installation at the factory. And there are a couple of brands around that require fabricators like us to

build sensors into the resi doors that we supply, that allow homeowners to upgrade their doors at a time to suit themselves, so that they can ensure that their doors are in fact secure. The market is splintered and potentially confusing, but we have chosen two options: the first is to include, at no additional cost, a smart sensor in every front door and

Adrian Barraclough runs Quickslide, one of Britain’s leading window & door manufacturers.

It’s a nice extra touch to tell your customers about, and perhaps one that’ll make them choose you over the competition. Google ‘kubu-home’ for more information.

I am particularly excited about a smart sash-lock for vertical sliding, box sash windows. So excited, in fact, that I have got an exclusive for this on our VS windows, which gives me a nice warm feeling. And whilst others may also have them, we are early with a casement handle that detects if the window is secure.

There are plenty of options around, but the VS catch and window handles are from a range called AviaSmart, and what we like is that anyone buying our windows fitted with these devices, can then upgrade their front door (as long as it has multipoint hardware) with a lock that unlocks the front door as you approach, using an app on your smartphone or even an Apple Watch. The door can also be unlocked or locked remotely to allow

deliveries or tradesmen access, or other family members for example.

These are chunky but attractive to look at with the range also extending to security sensors, light sensors and alarms,

with the security of Apple HomeKit tech for reassurance. And to reiterate, they can all be added by the homeowner after installation. Or of course, the smart builder could offer it all up front as a package to put even more distance between you and the next firm.

Now personally, I never saw any problem with a good old-fashioned key. But the demand is there, it’s growing, and you need to be ready for smart enquiries.

It took us some time to decide but, as the old cliché goes, now you don’t have to, beyond learning a few details in case your punter asks you. But you can also get ahead of the competition and actually offer clever hardware: that would be the smart move.

AND HERE’S A LITTLE EXTRA FOR PROFESSIONAL BUILDER READERS: GET 5% OFF ALL AVIA HARDWARE AT AVIASMART.COM WITH CODE ‘QUICK5’

VITO OR VETO?

We have all been there, first to arrive at the party, waiting for the other guests to turn up…. only to find that when they do finally make an entrance, they just happen to be the coolest and most interesting new kids in town – who everyone wants to talk to! Mercedes must have felt a bit like that when it launched its first full production 100 per cent electric van to go on sale in the UK. In fact, it was the first medium sized electric van of any kind to become available here. Quite the coup then, the only problem being that with a range of less than 100 miles it was quickly seen as a bit of a party pooper. And, of course, it wasn’t long before all of the other A list players were turning up with distinctly better presents in terms of range and payloads for their potential hosts.

Mercedes has made some welcome improvements to its eVito medium van offering, but does it go far enough in more ways than one? Professional Builder is charged with the task of finding out.

Fast forward to 2023 and the latest eVito offers a much more competitive 162 miles, a significant improvement on the frugal 92 miles that it provided before. Removing at a stroke some – if not all – of the anxieties which still exist when going fully electric. And other improvements have also been made in terms of better charging times and added trim levels.

Based on the front wheel drive of the standard Vito the e version replaces the diesel engine with an 85kW electric motor – equivalent to a somewhat modest 115hp powered by battery packs mounted below the load floor. It comes in two sizes – L2 and L3 – and a single height roof

but, at under 1,000kg, the payload compares unfavourably with some of its competitors, which go up to almost 1,300kg. Having said that, it’s pretty quick off the mark, and with an improved torque rating of 360Nm it gets the load moving really smartly.

Like all electric vans the driving experience takes a little while to become fully accustomed to and the unconventional layout of the eVito controls makes this Initially even more of challenge. The key slot is on the left of the steering wheel, and you select drive and reverse via a steering column mounted lever that’s positioned where

just about everyone else puts the windscreen wiper stick. On more than one occasion during our drizzly test drive we found ourselves in neutral rather than switching the wipers on.

The cabin with its low roof also feels a little cramped, but it’s comfortable enough to accommodate three reasonably burly builders. All models come with a 7in. touchscreen that brings all the smartphone mirroring functions you would expect in a van that costs well in excess of £40,000. Although we have to say, that even though our eyesight is not quite what it once was, the clock and outside temperature indicator are infuriately small.

Adapting your usual driving habits is, of course, key if you are to properly maximise the expected range and the eVito has an unassuming button on the dashboard to help you. There are three modes and they moderate accelerator response and motor power output, as well as dialling back the air conditioning to make the batteries last a bit longer.

Around town

The braking modes are controlled by paddle shifts on the steering wheel with a starting default position of D mode. This is the most efficient and works well around town, where you hardly need to touch the brakes at all, but it starts to feel a bit weird when more acceleration is needed quickly. Flicks to the paddle eventually

take you to D++ which offers no braking recuperation at all, so you need to keep fully engaged with the road conditions at all times.

And, talking of charging, the eVito now comes with the ability to use a fast charger, getting back 80 per cent of the range in around 35 minutes. A 11kWh wall box will do the same job in six and half hours while a three-pin plug will take a mind numbing 20 hours. The van has the same three-year unlimited mileage warranty as all Mercedes vans and the

impact natural degradation will have on the second-hand market. All vans come with mobile van roadside assistance which is free for a mind boggling thirty years and are fitted with a Can track module which comes with a three-year free subscription. An alarm system is also standard now.

In van terms it’s probably fair to say that Mercedes doesn’t enjoy quite the same cache as it does with its saloon cars. The competition is intense in this sector of the market and, not unsurprisingly, some of the earlier adoption vehicles do not translate into the electric sector as easily as some of the very latest models. There is also the ongoing conundrum expressed to us on occasion by some business users, that whilst owning and driving a Mercedes indicates an attractive level of perceived business success, there is the implication in some circles that they must be charging too much for their services! Add in the not insignificant premium for going green and that dilemma isn’t getting easier anytime soon.

The future of the most compact plant is increasingly on an electric avenue and JCB is one of the manufacturer’s leading the charge. Part of its growing E-TECH portfolio of battery-powered solutions, the 1,092kg operating weight, 19C-1E has a number of benefits over its diesel siblings, and a leading south-east developer has become an enthusiastic advocate of the technology.

From its Dunstable base, Bridgewater Homes delivers high quality new builds in

TAKE CHARGE!

The bright sparks at JCB have delivered an electric mini excavator solution that’s proving indispensable for Bridgewater Homes.

the Herts, Beds and Bucks area. The company is a firm believer in buying plant, rather than renting, and has been consistently brand-loyal to JCB.

Continuing that theme, the JCB 19C-1E electric mini excavator has been purchased with a view to comfortably undertake basement and indoor works, as well as more general duties. “A forthcoming scheme in Leighton Buzzard is a pub conversion,” reveals Bridgewater Homes Operations Manager, Andrew Cross, “and we can get the JCB 19C-1E inside the building without having to worry about diesel fumes and noise. We can equally undertake work in basements and, on this site, in the underground car park. At the same time, it’s equally adept at plot landscaping, excavating service trenches, grading and is a real multi-tasker.”

Andrew Cross, Operations Manager of Bridgewater Homes

The Harpenden scheme we visited has proven to be a challenging build. A five-storey construction, with two below ground, is further complicated by a gradient front to back and left to right. An adjacent electric substation has had to be lowered to the same level as the underground car park, whilst 11 below ground storage tanks have also been installed. The build began in September 2021, a time period that inevitably entailed complications with the pandemic, and the Bridgewater Homes team will complete in June of 2023.

Andrew is full of praise for the JCB’s on the developer’s fleet. “If we hire a machine and it does the job for us – and it looks like we’ll be using the same machine again – then we always prefer to own it. We’re already in possession of an 8.6-tonne JCB 86C-2 excavator, a 3T-2 Site Dumper, and a 14m 540-140 telehandler, as well as the more compact 4m, 520-40 Loadall. We purchase all our plant from Watling JCB and we can’t fault the aftercare and service from them.”

Electric power

Andrew is himself an operator and has found the 19C-1E to be a user friendly solution. “Across the JCB product portfolio you can be assured of reliability, power, stability and ease of controls, and that’s certainly the case with the electric mini,” he continues. “The battery power also makes it much smoother in operation and the controls are more intuitive. If anything, you get more power than you would from a diesel machine.”

The 19C-1E has various charging cable solutions to suit your application, as well as single phase and three phase, all of which ensures the machine is there when you need it, as Andrew explains: “We’ve been charging overnight and do seem to get a full shift from it. Although there is a cost differential between diesel and electric excavators, you do equally have to factor in the increased cost of fuel, particularly with the end of the red diesel rebate, because the white is now three times the price.”

“It can take a bit of time to get used to

– with the absence of any noise rather strange at first – but at the same time it certainly makes for a better experience for the operator, especially with the full cab – and anyone working in the vicinity.”

The material handling dexterity of the electric mini, working in tandem with the 520-40 telehandler, has proven invaluable in off-loading from trucks to bring it down the ramp to the underground car park. “The compact telehandler is a also highly manoeuvrable machine that’s done everything we’ve asked of it. It makes the turn into the underground car park easily and fits underneath. It’s the only place in the whole build that we can utilise for storage so it’s really cut down on manual handling

around site. They’re certainly the best telehandlers and you really can’t go wrong with the 535 telehandler either. Having the electric mini here as well give us more options, especially in underground areas.”

Sustainability

The 19C-1E is zero emissions at the point of use, with drastically reduced noise levels in operation. A significantly simplified powertrain means daily checks and maintenance are reduced. Moreover, electricity is much cheaper than the white diesel that contractors are now compelled to adopt on site and it’s eminently suited for work in confined spaces, in urban areas, or sensitive locations.

There’s three options to charge the unit’s 4 battery pack – 110V, 230V and 415V – whilst levels of charge can be constantly monitored via a gauge on the instrument panel. The ability to be able to hear your colleagues easier on site shouldn’t be underestimated from a safety perspective, not to mention the inherent improvements to the working environment, with noise at the operator station a significant 10dB less than its diesel counterpart. That opens up the possibility of ‘out-of-hours’ working which could in itself speed up a job and improve levels of productivity.

The canopy or cab is ROPS, TOPS and FOGS certified and the 100% steel bodywork will withstand the toughest of sites with a full width rear cast counterweight giving full protection against damage. The extending undercarriage beams are also constructed from 25mm solid steel plate.

“In the time we’ve been using the 19C1E there does seem to be a number of advantages for owners and operators,” concludes Andrew. Indeed, a machine that’s in tune with our drive to net zero is making for an electric atmosphere on site!

SECOND IN THE SERIES: NO.2

A BRIGHT FUTURE

‘Renewable and clean, solar PV is already an established solution for over one million households in the UK looking to lower energy bills in the home. Thanks to the government’s net zero greenhouse gas emissions policy – which demands that all new homes should produce 31% lower carbon emissions – along with zero-rated VAT on the installation of energy saving materials in residential properties, the popularity of solar looks set to increase further.

‘In addition, the uncertainty over our energy security, ongoing energy price hikes and rising demand for power to charge electric vehicles is driving increasingly more consumers to consider installing solar PV to help reduce their outgoings during the current cost-of-living crisis.

Opportunities for installers

‘The move to renewable technologies is inevitable and it is those roofing contractors who invest in the qualifications needed to fit solar PV that will benefit the most. From seriously considering solar as part of their offering to their valued customers, they will be able to deliver it.

‘Indeed, MCS, the body that defines and maintains standards for small-scale domestic renewable energy and heating across the UK and has recorded all certified installations since 2008, reports that overall, solar PV installations comprise more than 80% of the 1.4 million renewable installations so far registered, taking the total number of ‘sunny roofed’ residential properties to over one million – so demand is there for the taking.’

Make solar part of your offering

‘Solar should be discussed on every roof and roof truss enquiry – it’s a great upselling opportunity for any roofing contractor in the UK. Whilst solar may

seem like a totally new market for some roofing contractors, the opportunity is too big to miss. At Marley, we can work with you to support finding solar opportunities and offering your team training and guidance on the product range and system – increasing your confidence when talking to your valued customers.’

A complete package

‘Marley SolarTile has been created to deliver on aesthetics, installation and, importantly, sustainability. For years, only ‘bolt on’ systems were available, yet Marley SolarTile now provides a truly integrated roof system that fits seamlessly with the design of the roof, developed and designed with the roofer in mind to be fitted by the roofer – easily.’

Ideal for both new build and the retrofit markets, the SolarTile does away with the need for counter battens as required on other in-tray roof systems. This is thanks to its double fixing to battens and trusses and, by replacing existing tiles rather than fixing over the top of them, it

greatly reduces the risk of costly tile breakages on the roof.

Completely compatible with all clay and concrete tiles and slates, the product is supplied as a complete kit with all components, such as adhesive flashing and fireproofing materials included. So, there’s no extra material costs.

Whilst colour-coded boxes make for easy installation, the patented pushtogether design means that installation times of less than one hour per kilowatt peak can be achieved.

Kevin concludes: ‘Marley SolarTile is an innovative, reliable and sustainable solar energy system that, when used alongside a full range of Marley roofing products, forms part of our full roof system, complete with our 15-year guarantee. It’s a great choice for roofing contractors looking to move into the growing solar energy market.’

Kevin Taylor, Training & Technical Manager at Marley, talks about the demand for solar energy and the opportunity this presents for skilled roofing contractors.

“Marley SolarTile is an innovative, reliable and sustainable solar energy system that, when used alongside a full range of Marley roofing products, forms a full roof system with our 15-year guarantee”

NOW LIVE! Smith & Jones

IF THEY ARE TALKING WE ARE LISTENING!

AND YOU CAN TO, AS WE CATCH UP WITH SOME OF THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY’S MOST INTERESTING AND KNOWLEDGEABLE CHARACTERS ON THE NEW GROUND BREAKING PROFESSIONAL BUILDER PODCAST WITH SMITH AND JONES.

LEARN A NEW BUSINESS SKILL OR FINE TUNE AN OLD ONE FROM THE GUYS AND GIRLS AT THE SHARP END, WHO HAVE BEEN THERE, DONE IT AND GOT THE PB T SHIRT TO BOOT!

A GRAND OXIT

There’s so many adhesives and sealants out there these days that it can get confusing choosing the right one for the job. I was tasked to test if OX has filled a gap in the market with its PRO OXIT, which is a 3 in 1 Adhesive, Sealant and Gap Filler.

I am a little sceptical about using products that claim to be multi-purpose because I wonder if they perform better in one aspect, such as an adhesive, than as a sealant. However, the PRO OXIT seals the deal as it performs great all round, as an adhesive, sealant and gap filler.

It can be used on a wide range of substrates/materials without much surface preparations needed, which is perfect when you’re reusing materials as it saves time not having to clean them perfectly so there’s no debris on the surface.

The industrial grab means it provides a quick grab and super strength once it’s dried. It even bonds in the wet and under water. This is incredible because there has been cases where I’ve been working outside in the rain doing some jobs that must be done – come rain or shine this will pull you out of some sticky situations.

That obviously means it can be used inside or outside and, with a high UV resistance, it helps if anything is exposed directly to sunlight.

high flexibility. As we know some

materials are constantly breathing and, depending on the weather, they may contract and expand. With the PRO OXIT being flexible, it will move with the material preventing any cracking occurring in the materials that have been bonded or sealed.

It is also perfect for sealing baths, or even in kitchens, and it is food safe compliant. If that’s not enough it even claims to be anti-mould, making it perfect to use in areas where it’s constantly exposed to water, such as baths and sinks. Whilst this is all sinking in, to top it off it’s even paintable so you’ll also be in the decorators’ good books. However if you don’t want to paint over the seal and need a specific colour it is available in four common colours – white, black, clear and anthracite.

There’s no grey areas when it comes to the PRO OXIT 3 in 1 Adhesive, Sealant and Gap Filler and for me it does seal the deal!

Tibby Singh – www.TibbySingh.com

Professional Builder’s Tibby Singh fixes it with PRO OXIT

GENERAL BUILDING

OIL-FIRED BOILERS

SPECIALIST GLASS

A property in Exeter is a great example of how specialist glass from TuffX can be applied. The company supplied a total of 10m2 21.5mm toughened laminated glass with a satin privacy finish option. Made up of six rectangular units each 1,205mm in height, the glass was paired with a near-invisible frameless finish for seamless and unobtrusive sightlines.

TINTED PAINT

Decorators will now be able to purchase

Valspar Trade’s Vinyl Matt Tinted. The high-opacity, water-based emulsion applies easily, with an extended open wet edge time for a smooth finish. It can cover up to 16m2 per litre of paint, is quick drying and now available in 2,000 pre-selected colours or up to 2.2 million with the company’s colour matching.

VAPOUR PERMEABLE WALL MEMBRANE

As part of Onduline’s popular range of ONDUTISS membranes, ONDUTISS FAÇADE 100 walling membranes consists of a layer of polypropylene layered between two sheets of non-woven polypropylene, making them vapour permeable. This guarantees a breathable wall membrane that protects and insulates buildings against humidity, wind and condensation.

Vortex Pro oil-fired boilers from Grant UK are now available with a 10 year guarantee when installed and registered by a G1 Installer with a Grant Mag One filter fitted. The range of boilers has outputs from 15kW up to 70kW and each model has A ErP ratings. All of Grant’s Vortex Pro boilers are also HVO compatible.

LUXURY VINYL TILE

A stylish, durable, easy to install and low maintenance alternative to real stone and ceramic tiles, Malmo has added four designs to its Rigid Comfort Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) flooring range. The product comes in tiles

ALUMINIUM GUTTERING

The Coach House on the Sharpham Estate is one of the newest heritage buildings to benefit from Marley Alutec’s Traditional guttering. The aluminium guttering with the Heritage Black 80% gloss finish chosen replicates the look and feel of the traditional painted cast iron, while remaining infinitely recyclable and providing a life expectancy of 50+ years.

VERANDAS AND GARDEN ROOMS

A range of Verandas and Garden-rooms have been added to Rainclear’s website. The standard sizes are 3-6m wide with a 3m projection from the building façade. The 110 x 110mm corrosion resistant aluminium frames come in standard colours of Anthracite Grey and White and all with an internal drainage system.

CONCRETE PITCHED ROOF TILES

The versatility of concrete and the benefits of greater strength, whilst providing the authentic appearance of natural materials. That’s how Russell Roof Tiles describes its Bute concrete roof tiles. The thinner leading-edge product is also manufactured using 15 per cent less raw materials than a standard interlocking tile.

TRADE MEDIA

BM TRADA TECHNICAL TIMBER WEBINARS

There will be a total of nine free-to-attend BM TRADA technical timber webinars, split into three series. Topics covered will include timber frame details, moisture management, misconceptions when strength grading solid timber, modified woods and panel products as well as an understanding wood degrading insects and micro-organisms.

GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAR086

OMNIE   ASHP GUIDE FOR INSTALLERS

An overview of air source heat pumps can be accessed through the OMNIE Knowledge Guide for installers. In addition, dedicated project managers are on hand to offer guidance from the planning stages to installation and handover, whilst a free design service sizes the unit, and covers heat delivery and controls.

GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAR087

ROCKWOOL  TECHNICAL BULLETIN

Technical guidance on bonded construction materials is now available from Rockwool. It covers insulated upstand boards, and the finished product’s subsequent Euroclass reaction-to-fire rating. The manufacturer’s HARDROCK UB34 is a non-combustible insulation designed for parapet walls and upstands on flat roofs.

WWW.RDR.LINK/BAR088

NIGHTSEARCHER  2023 CATALOGUE

Highlights of the upgraded NightSearcher

2023 product catalogue include the Kanga Star range highpowered work lights designed to operate from the leading power tool batteries, as well as receiving their own stock battery and an AC mains power adaptor. In addition, the iSpector Mini – is a slimline, fold-flat inspection light that fits into your pocket.

GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAR089

The freezing weather in January caused a number of mains water leaks near me. This always strikes me as strange. We take all sorts of frostproofing precautions with our own plumbing work, but the guys who install the pipes under the roads and pavements seem to take a more relaxed approach.

Anyway, I came home one day to find a man on his hands and knees on the pavement in front of my house. He was staring intently at my water meter.

I was puzzled, because the meter had only recently been switched to a so-called “smart” meter. It’s not smart at all, of course. All it does is transmit the readings to the water company’s headquarters, thereby doing away with the need to employ someone to walk around and look at the meters.

Or so I thought. In fact – the man kneeling on the pavement told me – the system was programmed to flag up small constant flows to domestic premises, because these might indicate internal leaks.

My first thought was to be alarmed. Since compulsory water metering was introduced a few years ago, my big fear has been paying for underground leaks from my water supply pipe under the front path. So before I re-paved my front garden, I replaced the old lead supply pipe with a new run of MDPE. Surely this hadn’t sprung a leak?

The water man told me to check by going indoors and turning off the stop valve. The flow stopped, so there was no leak in the supply pipe. And he showed me that when water is flowing through the meter, a

little symbol blinks next to the numbers, so that was useful to learn.

Meanwhile, I asked my new friend why Thames Water (for it was they) were so worried about a tiny leak in my house – for which I would be paying them – when just round the corner was a “gusher” that was washing away the tarmac from the road surface, and had been doing so for the best part of ten days.

The reason, he said, was that a leak is a leak, and Thames Water is committed to fixing every one of them. Mmmm, and I’ll bet the reason they have suddenly become so keen on that is because the water regulator Ofwat is threatening them with a big fine if they don’t reach their leakage reduction target. (And fixing the “gushers” is done by a different department, of course.)

My little leak turned out to be a classic – a WC cistern with an internal overflow pipe. The water was trickling silently down the back of the bowl, and I had never noticed it. I’m glad that Thames Water alerted me to it and saved me paying unnecessarily for water down the drain.

And I’m glad that they eventually fixed the gusher on the High Street, too.

Jeff Howell

ADVERTISEMENT INDEX

Here is a useful summary of all the adverts that appear in this issue of Professional Builder . Each is listed with its page number and a direct URL that will get you straight to the relevant online information

Alufold Direct Ltd..............................................................(page 41) www.rdr.link/BAR120

Azpects Ltd........................................................................(page 43) www.rdr.link/BAR121

Bond-it................................................................................page 34) www.rdr.link/BAR122

Buckbootz..........................................................................(page 34) www.rdr.link/BAR123

Eclisse UK Ltd......................................................................(page 11) www.rdr.link/BAR124

estimators.com............................................................(back cover) www.rdr.link/BAR125

F Ball & Co Ltd/ Setcrete..................................................(page 44) www.rdr.link/BAR126

Federation Of Master Builders Ltd..................................(page 67) www.rdr.link/BAR127

Freefoam Plastics Ltd......................................................(page 46) www.rdr.link/BAR128

Grass Concrete Int Ltd......................................................(page 36) www.rdr.link/BAR129

Hallstone Deveopment Ltd..............................................(page 42) www.rdr.link/BAR130

International Decorative Surfaces/Allur........................(page 27) www.rdr.link/BAR131

Knauf Drywall....................................................................(page 21) www.rdr.link/BAR132

Made for Trade..................................................................(page 15) www.rdr.link/BAR133

Made for Trade............................................................(pages 16,17) www.rdr.link/BAR134

Makita (UK) Ltd....................................................................(page 8) www.rdr.link/BAR135

Marley Ltd..........................................................................(page 18) www.rdr.link/BAR136

Marshalls PLC....................................................................(page 37) www.rdr.link/BAR137

Origin Doors Ltd................................(inside front cover gatefold) www.rdr.link/BAR138

Origin Doors Ltd................................................................(page 31) www.rdr.link/BAR139

Origin Doors Ltd................................................................(page 33) www.rdr.link/BAR140

PB Online..........................................................................(page 69) www.rdr.link/BAR141

Pnu-Point Ltd....................................................................(page 59) www.rdr.link/BAR142

Podcast..............................................................................(page 77) www.rdr.link/BAR143

Quickslide............................................................................(page 5) www.rdr.link/BAR144

Rainy Day............................................................................(page 71) www.rdr.link/BAR145

Rocket Door Frames........................................................(page 64) www.rdr.link/BAR146

Rocket Door Frames........................................................(page 65) www.rdr.link/BAR147

Rockwool UK Ltd................................................................(page 6) www.rdr.link/BAR148

Saniflo Ltd..........................................................................(page 22) www.rdr.link/BAR149

SIXT......................................................................................(page 4) www.rdr.link/BAR150

Steel Blue Europe..............................................................(page 25) www.rdr.link/BAR151

Sui Generis International Ltd/Safe Tread......................(page 43) www.rdr.link/BAR152

Tarmac PLC/Blue Circle....................................................(page 28) www.rdr.link/BAR153

Toolfair................................................................................(page 78) www.rdr.link/BAR154

Tuffx Processed Glass Ltd................................................(page 61) www.rdr.link/BAR155

V12 Footwear....................................................................(page 53) www.rdr.link/BAR156

VIP Polymers Ltd..............................................................(page 59) www.rdr.link/BAR157

Vortex..................................................................................(page 57) www.rdr.link/BAR158

West Fraser Ltd..................................................................(page 47) www.rdr.link/BAR159

NO. 42 BACK PAIN (PART 2)

OUCH... I’ve put my back out!

Last month’s column covered the very common condition of muscular lower back pain. This month we move on to back pain caused by reasons other than muscle problems. Back pain caused by serious medical conditions represents a very small number of cases, but it can be a sign of conditions like infection or cancer happening inside the body to cause pain that is felt in the back.

This article will cover symptoms that might indicate a more serious underlying reason for having back pain. That doesn’t mean to say that experiencing these symptoms means there is definitely a serious problem, but it should prompt you to seek help or the medical professional assessing you to consider some further tests.

There are two categories of symptoms; symptoms that mean you should have an urgent review with a medical professional and then symptoms that are a medical emergency – meaning you need to go to A&E or call 999.

So, firstly, the urgent symptoms. These are back pains associated with:

● Having a high temperature

● Feeling generally unwell or extremely tired

● Losing weight unintentionally

● Change in shape of your back or noticing any new lumps or swellings

● Pain that is worse at night or that does not get better with rest

● Pain that is worse with coughing, sneezing or moving your bowels

Pain in the back that is felt higher up in the “thoracic region” (or the upper back) is also more unusual than lower back pain and might indicate a non-muscular cause.

If you have any of these symptoms, then you should seek urgent advice from your GP or NHS 111 who will be able to assess you. It is likely an examination will be needed, and further tests might be arranged to find out exactly what is

IN PART TWO OF OUR BACK PAIN FOCUS, GP ALICE

FITZGIBBON LOOKS AT MORE SERIOUS AND UNDERLYING PROBLEMS THAT CAUSE BACK PAIN

genital area or buttocks

● Struggling to pass urine (being unable to go for a pee despite trying)

● Loss of control of the bladder or the bowels (incontinence).

Cauda equina is an emergency and assessment must not be delayed. If it is suspected, an examination and a scan of the back is required in hospital. Surgery may be needed to relieve the compression of the spinal cord to prevent permanent damage to the nerves supplying the bladder, bowels and legs.

going on.

Back pain is a medical emergency when there are signs that there might be something pressing on the bottom of the spinal cord (called the cauda equina). Prolapsed discs in the spine, collapsed bones or tumours growing can all cause what is known as “cauda equina syndrome”. The specific symptoms associated with this condition are back pain with:

Pain, numbness, altered sensation or Numbness or tingling around the

As I have mentioned, sinister causes for back pain are far less common than muscular causes. It is important to be aware of the symptoms to look out for, especially as symptoms can change over time. If you experience back pain with any worrying features, or you feel your symptoms are changing over time, then please seek review with a medical professional, whether that be your primary care team or physiotherapist. Next time, in the final article on back pain, we will cover the kinds of discomfort caused by ‘slipped discs’ and sciatica.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON BACK PAIN FROM THE NHS VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAR090

ToughBuilt’s #KneelSmartKneelSafe campaign aims to see kneepads treated with the same sense of necessity on the jobsite as other forms of PPE like eye protection, hard hats or safety boots. After all, the consequences of not wearing kneepads can be every bit as devastating. ToughBuilt’s ultimate aim is to reduce the number of people who inadvertently end up with work related knee injuries.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON THE TOUGHBUILT RANGE OF KNEEPADS VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAR091