Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer March 2022

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PROFESSIONAL

HOUSEBUILDER & PROPERTY DEVELOPER

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MARCH 2022

EV CHARGING Prepare for electric vehicle charging points

KITCHENS & BATHROOMS

ROOFING & CLADDING

Fully functional and aesthetically pleasing appliances can help create an attractive kitchen for homeowners

Reasons to consider marine grade aluminium for a property’s rainwater and eaves system

LAST WORD: INTERIOR DESIGN FOR CITY LIVING

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CONTENTS REGULARS

PHPD MARCH 2022 VOLUME 16 NUMBER 2

21|

Rainwater and eaves systems

5 First Word 6 News 10 Developments 12 Market Report 32 Products in Practice 34 General Building 35 Last Word

SPECIAL REPORTS 14 Hot topic The latest developments in boiler technology that help to maximise efficiency 16 Electric opportunity What to consider when developing an EV infrastructure for a new development

KITCHENS & BATHROOMS 26 The modern shower experience Smart controls, hassle-free installation and sustainability are at the forefront of today’s shower experience

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Showering solutions

28 Smart thinking The growing importance of smart solutions when considering appliances in new homes 30 Round Up Keep up-to-date with the latest solutions

16 |

EV charging

ROOFING & CLADDING 21 Rainwater and eaves systems Take account of performance, aesthetics and sustainability when selecting a system

14 |

Heating options

PROFESSIONAL

HOUSEBUILDER & PROPERTY DEV ELO PER

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LINE.CO.UK

MARCH 2022

24 Targeting zero Russell Roof Tiles has announced its commitment to becoming a Net-Zero business

COVER STORY To help housebuilders reach new heights JCB has recently launched a new rotating telehandler with high-reach capabilities – the 555-260R . To find out more use www.rdr.link/dac001

EV CHARGING

Prepare for electric vehicle charging points

KITCHENS & BATHROO MS

Fully functional and aesthetically pleasing appliances help create an attractive can kitchen for homeowners

LAST WORD: INTERIOR

ROOFING & CLADDIN G

Reasons to consider marine grade aluminium property’s rainwater for a and eaves system

DESIGN FOR CITY

LIVING

Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer March 3

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FIRST WORD

Editor Jonathan Cole phpd@hamerville.co.uk Group Advertisement Manager Craig Jowsey 07900 248102 craig@hamerville.co.uk Advertisement Manager Marcus Hooper 01923 237799 mhooper@hamerville.co.uk Northern Area Sales Ian Duff 07810 353 525 probuilder@sky.com Digital Group Manager Stuart Duff Digital Assistant David Molloy Design Adeel Qadri Group Production Manager Carol Padgett Production Assistant Kerri Smith Managing Editor Terry Smith Circulation Manager Kirstie Day Printer Walstead Peterborough Published by: Hamerville Media Group Regal House, Regal Way, Watford, Herts, WD24 4YF. Tel: 01923 237799 Email: phpd@hamerville.co.uk Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer is a business magazine for firms and individuals involved in all aspects of the building industry. The publishers and editor do not necessarily agree with the views expressed by contributors, nor do they accept responsibility for any errors of translation in the subject matter in this publication. © 2022

Subscriptions to Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer are available at the following rates: UK: 1 year — £30 post paid Europe and Overseas: 1 year — £50 post paid Airmail: 1 year — £65 post paid To be removed from this magazine’s circulation please call 01923 237799 or email circulation@hamerville.co.uk

Total Average New Distribution 13,292 July 2020 – June 2021

Take charge Just a few years ago not too many housebuilders would have been including electric vehicle charging points in the specification of new homes. Now, within a year or so, it is likely to become commonplace.

In November last year at the Confederation of British Industries conference the Prime Minister announced that new homes and buildings in England would be required to have electric vehicle charging points. The government indicated that the move could see around 145,000 charge points being fitted each year.

And there is certainly rising levels of demand in the market. The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) called 2021 ‘the most successful year in history for electric vehicle uptake’. Its figures reveal that during the year more new battery electric vehicles (BEVs) were registered than over the previous five years combined. Taken together with plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), 18.5% of all new cars registered in 2021 can be plugged in, it said. The SMMT also notes that 40% of models are now available as plug-ins.

With the transition towards electric vehicles clearly underway it is unsurprising that designs for new properties should be including charging points. In this issue we look at how housebuilders can integrate charging infrastructure into new developments, with a supplier of EV charging points providing its thoughts on what housebuilders need to consider. Turn to page 16 to discover more.

Another document that may be worth taking into consideration is the NHBC Foundation report into electric vehicles and new homes. Plugging in to the future: electric vehicle charging and new homes (NF90) provides guidance on the current state of play with electric vehicles and charge points and what housebuilders will need to provide either within the curtilage of a single dwelling or where the development has off-plot or shared parking.

Sustainable living is increasingly on the agenda for a growing number of potential buyers of new homes. Consequently, many housebuilders are responding by looking to incorporate a growing variety of ‘green’ or ‘eco’ elements into new homes and developments. It would appear that electric vehicle charging points will, from now on, be firmly amongst them.

For more information from PHPD visit www.phpdonline.co.uk @phpdonline

Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer March 5

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NEWS

E-mail your news & views to phpd@hamerville.co.uk or tweet us at @phpdonline

Bellway selects NHBC reports 25% boost in UK new home registrations in 2021 ilke Homes for modular development

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lke Homes has been selected by Bellway to deliver the company’s first modular homes.

The partnership will see ilke Homes deliver 40 factory-built homes on a site in Milton Keynes. Branded Tattenhoe Park, the wider scheme will comprise 160 homes built from steel and timber framed homes as part of a pilot project being led by Homes England. ilke Homes will be delivering a mix of two, three and four bedroom homes for Bellway, for both affordable and open market tenures. Bellway is due to start work on site in March, with ilke Homes expected to deliver the first homes in August.

Tom Heathcote, Executive Director of development at ilke Homes, said: “It’s great to partner with Bellway Homes at Tattenhoe Park, a truly innovative, Homes England-backed scheme that is aiming to demonstrate the benefits of MMC by collecting granular data on the performance of our own precision-engineered homes.”

6 March Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

igures published by NHBC show there were 153,339 new home registrations in 2021, a 25% increase on 2020.

Compared to the 8-year-low seen in 2020, where registrations fell to 122,935, the sector experienced a significant rebound as it emerges from the pandemic. New home completions also showed a significant uplift in 2021, increasing by 21% to 139,333.

Commenting on the latest figures, NHBC Chief Executive Steve Wood said: “The house-building industry demonstrated considerable resilience in

2021, rebounding well from the pandemic and coping with significant strains in the supply chain.

“The pandemic has resulted in a real shift in the way people work and use their homes, with this likely to have some long-lasting effects, as seen in the high demand for detached properties.

Whilst there has been a clear drop in the number of apartment registrations, the ‘death of the city’ is over-stated and we expect to see these start to increase in the medium-term, particularly with the continued investment in the build to rent sector.”

Heat pump production on the rise

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ensa Heat Pumps, a manufacturer of low carbon ground source heat pumps, has announced it has broken production records recently, doubling its output over the past 18 months and is working towards a further twofold increase in capacity by 2023.

The government is aiming for 600,000 heat pumps to be installed a year by 2028 – a significant increase in current market volumes.

Kensa Group CEO, Simon Lomax, said: “Kensa has passionately advocated for a long time that ground source heat pumps are best placed to deliver low carbon heat to the UK. There is a particularly welcome focus from Government in ensuring a large proportion are manufactured here to boost our green economy.

“In response, we are committed to scaling up production to meet increased demand and fulfil the

Government’s ambition to ‘build back greener’. Our mission is to connect thousands more people in homes and businesses across the country to cleaner, greener, affordable heat.”

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Survey reveals post-pandemic property priorities

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new survey among over 1,100 UK homeowners and homebuyers has uncovered their post-pandemic property priorities.

One in five homeowners say the pandemic has made them dissatisfied with their home, according to the new research from FJP Investment.

The investment firm commissioned an independent survey of 1,125 homeowners in the UK to establish how their property wants and needs had changed as a result of Covid-19. It found that for 24% of respondents, the pandemic has fundamentally changed what they look for in a home.

The study revealed a quarter of homeowners (26%) believe the impact of the pandemic has lessened the appeal of living in an urban area, which suggests that the ‘race for space’ trend continues to be a key driver in the market.

Jamie Johnson, CEO of FJP Investment, said: “The research clearly shows that homeowners across the UK are rethinking what they want and need from the place they live. And not just the property, but the local area, with people’s social and professional priorities shifting markedly over the past two years.”

Zoopla and Yourkeys launch ‘Plot Twists’ podcast

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oopla and Yourkeys, a sales platform for housebuilders and estate agents and part of Zoopla, has announced the launch of a new podcast series, titled ‘Plot Twists’, to explore industry issues faced by housebuilders.

The series brings together new homes experts from Zoopla and Yourkeys, as well as leading figures in the housebuilding industry, to discuss a wide range of topics including the hidden opportunities for housebuilders, what buyers want in 2022 (based on

exclusive consumer research), and how to step up customer satisfaction in three steps.

Commenting on the launch of the series, Alex Rose, Director of New Homes at Zoopla said: “With housing demand up 49% compared to the recent new year average, housebuilders are in a strong position to capitalise on heightened demand over the coming year. We’ll be discussing the opportunities this brings, and much more, during our Plot Twists podcast series.”

GRP specialist Stormking unveils new brand

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tormking, a UK-based manufacturer of Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) prefabricated products, has unveiled new branding. Established nearly 40 years ago, Stormking designs and manufactures offsite prefabricated component products.

Andrew Almond, Marketing Manager at Stormking, explained: “Stormking’s branding has always been synonymous with quality and service. From the commencement of the company in 1985, its brand design and style has reflected its market leading status within the GRP market and the house building construction sector. Although the brand has developed over time, after nearly a decade of the same brand, it was time for an update.”

Andrew went on: “Our new branding reflects Stormking’s commitment to being at the forefront of the GRP supply sector, with the continued development of innovative products and manufacturing processes that support the future of the house building sector.”

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NEWS

E-mail your news & views to phpd@hamerville.co.uk or tweet us at @phpdonline

Tradespeople delay projects due to supplies shortage

Survey reveals impact of lack of natural light

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ine in 10 (87%) tradespeople are being forced to delay projects due to the ongoing supplies shortage, according to a study by small business insurance provider Simply Business.

Over a quarter (27%) of tradespeople say they’ve had no choice but to delay projects by a minimum of four-eight weeks.

Nearly one in five (16%) had had to delay projects by eight-12 weeks, and a further one in six (13%) have had to delay projects by three months or more.

Alan Thomas, UK CEO at Simply Business, commented: “The ongoing supplies shortage is having a significant impact on tradespeople in the UK at a crucial time in their recovery from the effects of the pandemic. With 79% forced to turn down work in the last three months alone due to shortages, the total loss to self-employed tradespeople is expected to exceed over £3.5 billion.”

lack of natural light in homes across Britain is harming the physical and mental wellbeing of the nation, according to research by window and door manufacturer Origin.

The research indicates that those with limited natural light at home generally rate their physical and mental wellbeing lower than those with ample natural light in their properties.

Commenting on the findings, Ben Brocklesby, Director at Origin, said: “Access to natural light is incredibly important for our mental and physical wellbeing, and it’s interesting to see how much of an impact light can have on our enjoyment of our homes.”

He continued: “At Origin, we believe that it’s vital for our homes serve as more

than just a place to live. We should enjoy being in our homes, and they should promote physical and mental wellbeing for the whole family.”

The company has launched a ‘Gift of Light’ competition to offer one homeowner a new set of glazed doors for their home. For more information and to view the full terms and conditions go to

www.rdr.link/dac002

Groundworks specialist selects latest JCB excavators

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urrey-based demolition and groundworks specialist Wooldridge Group has bought four of the first of JCB’s brand new Stage V 245XR tracked excavators.

At 1,720mm, the 245XR has a tail swing that is 40% shorter than the conventional 220X, with which it shares many features. Supplied by dealer Greenshields JCB, each of the four models has been equipped with a Leica

3D guidance system and Engcon tiltrotator to further enhance accuracy and productivity on site.

Wooldridge Group’s Senior Operations Director, Nobby Grimes said: “We work on mainly residential sites so the zero tailswing feature is really useful in tight spaces. The machines are easy to manoeuvre, the fuel economy is fantastic and it saves wear on the tracks.”

One in five Britons plans to buy a property in 2022

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ne in five UK adults plan to buy a property in 2022, according to new research from Market Financial Solutions (MFS).

The bridging lender commissioned an independent survey among more than 2,000 UK adults. It found that 18% intend to purchase property this year,

8 March Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

including 34% of those aged 18-34.

Among renters, 14% plan to buy their first home. Among existing homeowners, 14% plan to sell up and move home in 2022, while 6% hope to purchase an additional investment property.

Paresh Raja, CEO of MFS, said: “After a frenetic year for the property market in

2021, in which house prices rose sharply, there is a great deal of speculation as to how 2022 will unfold. Our new research shows we should not expect any sudden slowdown; the fact that 18% of UK adults – over nine million people – intend to buy a property in the coming 12 months shows that demand remains sky high.”

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Hayfield launches 2022 Wellbeing programme

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olihull-headquartered housebuilder Hayfield has launched its 2022 Wellbeing Programme.

The Wellbeing Programme is based on monthly themes, supported by interactive webinars delivered by external consultants. A hardship fund, 24/7 employee assistance helpline, social events, private healthcare, and ongoing professional and personal development, are some of the other aspects of the Programme, to enable Hayfield’s employees to maintain good mental, physical, social, and financial health.

Sara Hope, Head of Human Resources for Hayfield said: “The health and wellbeing of all Hayfield’s employees is our priority and we have invested significantly in a bespoke support programme. The challenges brought about by the pandemic have taken their toll, so we want to demonstrate how we care for everyone’s physical, social, financial, and mental health in a number of proactive ways.”

Allison Group rebrands Larkfleet Homes

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llison Group has announced that Larkfleet Homes will be rebranded as Allison Homes. The move comes after both brands were purchased by management and US investment firm PIMCO in November 2021.

John Anderson, CEO of Allison Group said: “Allison is a very well-known and respected name in the East Midlands and as we establish the foundations for our ambitious growth, we felt we needed to consolidate the business under one, strong professional brand. The team is making great progress in many key areas including build quality and service and using the Allison Homes brand everywhere will only reinforce engagement and harness our strengths."

John continued: “We’re all excited about the future as we move forward together as Allison Homes. There’s fantastic energy amongst all members of the team whether they are based on site or in the offices. And a renewed understanding of, and determination to place, customers back at the heart of our activity as we create houses they are proud to call home.”

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DEVELOPMENTS Avant Homes – 141-home development in Holmewood Avant Homes has purchased a nine-acre parcel of land in Holmewood, Chesterfield where it will deliver a £30m development of 141 design-led homes. The housebuilder secured planning approval for the site from North Derbyshire District Council in December 2021. The first homes are set to be launched for sale in early 2022. Named Alma Place, the development is set to include a mixture of one, two, three, four and fivebedroom properties across 14 of Avant Homes’ contemporary apartment and house designs. The homes will range from a one-bedroom apartment to a five-bedroom detached house.

Avant Homes Central Managing Director, Stuart Rowlands, said: “As a Holmewood-based business, we are very pleased to be playing a role in providing much-needed housing for local buyers close to our headquarters.”

For more information go to www.rdr.link/dac003

Derbyshire

Bedfordshire

Hayfield – Clophill, 50 eco-efficient homes Hayfield has acquired an 8.5-acre (3.46 Ha) site in the Bedfordshire village of Clophill to deliver 50 eco-efficient homes next to a new country park and lakes. The plans for the £25m Hayfield Lakes development will feature Air Source Heat Pumps, energy-efficient underfloor heating, electric vehicle fast-charging points, and ultra-fast broadband. Full detailed planning has already been obtained for a range of bungalows, and two-, three-, fourand five-bedroom executive houses. 18 of the homes are designated for affordable housing and will be delivered to Hightown Housing Association.

For more information go to www.rdr.link/dac004

Bancon Homes – third phase Aden Meadows, Mintlaw Bancon Homes has announced the sales launch of the next phase of its new homes at the company’s Aden Meadows development in Mintlaw, Aberdeenshire.

The third phase consists of 25 three, four and five bedroom detached homes. The development is part of a wider masterplan, which encompasses 500 new homes, retail and commercial development.

Jo Skinner, Sales Director at Bancon Homes, said: “We are delighted to launch the next phase of homes at Aden Meadows. This superb development continues to attract a huge amount of attention from a range of buyers.”

For more information go to www.rdr.link/dac005

Aberdeenshire

United Living New Homes North – timber An artist impressions of frame the new Work has begun to transform a vacant development brownfield site into a 30 home timber frame housing development in Leeds. The scheme will deliver a total of 14 one bedroomed apartments, ten two bedroomed houses and six three bedroomed homes – two of which will be located on a satellite site, replacing two old properties that were previously demolished.

Mick Holling, Managing Director with United Living New Homes North, said: "We look forward to playing a central role in regenerating this area of Leeds and creating much-needed new homes for local people.” As the principal contractor for the development, United Living will partner with Leeds City Council and William Saunders Architects.

For more information go to www.rdr.link/dac006

Yorkshire

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March Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

Newland Homes – Churchdown Gloucester-based Newland Homes has secured a new development opportunity between Gloucester and Cheltenham, close to its head office in Barnwood. The circa 20-acre development parcel is located to the Southwest of the Churchdown. There will be a period of public consultation before a planning application is submitted, which is likely to be this Summer. It is anticipated that this will provide up to 145 new homes, including affordable housing and community green open space.

Andrew Billings, Land Director at Newland Homes, commented: “I am delighted that we have secured this prime development opportunity in Churchdown.” The 20-acre site is located adjacent to the emerging Bellway Homes and Ashberry Homes development.

For more information go to www.rdr.link/dac007

Gloucestershire

An aerial shot of the development site, indicted by the red line outline

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E-mail your latest developments to phpd@hamerville.co.uk Redrow – 200 new homes in Cowlishaw Redrow has been granted planning permission to build more than 200 new homes in Cowlishaw, between Royton and Shaw, Greater Manchester. Work has already begun to clear the site, off Cocker Mill Lane in Cowlishaw, which will eventually feature 201 new homes and five acres of green space, including a new orchard.

Claire Jarvis, Managing Director for Redrow Lancashire, said: “Our new development will provide a better way for people to live, with homes of a high quality being built alongside green areas where residents can spend time outdoors.” The new homes will hail from Redrow’s Arts and Crafts inspired Heritage Collection, in a range of three to five-bedroom designs.

For more information go to www.rdr.link/dac008

Bedfordshire

A computer-generated image of the Turner house type at phase one of the Bellway at Linmere development

Greater Manchester

Examples of homes Redrow has built at Saddleworth View in Moorside, Oldham

154 new homes – edge of Houghton Regis Plans for Bellway to build 154 new homes on the edge of Houghton Regis have been approved. The new homes will be the housebuilder’s second phase of properties at Linmere – a new neighbourhood which is planned to eventually consist of 5,150 homes and new schools, shops, community facilities and more than 90 acres of public outdoor space. The development will see 142 private homes built and 12 affordable homes. The developer is already delivering 153 properties in phase one of its Bellway at Linmere development.

Paul Smits, Managing Director of Bellway Northern Home Counties, said: “We are very pleased to be given planning permission to start work at this new site – our second development within the wider Linmere scheme on the edge of Houghton Regis.”

For more information go to www.rdr.link/dac009

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MARKET REPORT

Strong sales persist at builders’ merchants The latest figures from the Builders Merchant Building Index (BMBI), published in January, reveal that year-on-year value sales to builders and contractors by Britain’s builders’ merchants were 17.4% higher in November 2021 compared to the same month the previous year.

The Builders Merchant Building Index (BMBI) The BMBI is a brand of the BMF. The BMBI report, which is produced and managed by MRA Research, uses GfK’s Builders Merchant Point of Sale Tracking Data which analyses sales out data from over 80% of generalist builders’ merchants’ sales across Great Britain.

The full report is on www.bmbi.co.uk

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BMBI November 2021 Highlight Infographic

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n November 2021 record-breaking monthly figures and year-best performances were recorded across a number of categories.

Timber & Joinery Products (+30.2%) recorded its 15th consecutive month of year-on-year growth. Renewables & Water Saving (+18.0%) and Landscaping (+17.1%) also put in a strong performance, and Services (+17.1%) had its best-ever monthly sales since the BMBI started in July 2014.

Kitchens & Bathrooms (+14.5%) had its highest-ever monthly BMBI turnover.

Plumbing, Heating & Electrical (+13.8%) had its best month of 2021, and Heavy Building Materials, the largest category, also performed strongly (+13.5%).

Like-for-like sales, which take trading day differences into account, were up 12.1% year-on-year.

Compared to November 2019, a prepandemic year, total merchant value sales were up 28.0% in November 2021, with one more trading day in 2021. Eleven of the 12 categories sold more with Landscaping (+51.4%) and Timber & Joinery Products (+51.3%) still leading the pack.

Heavy Building Materials (+23.4%) and Kitchens & Bathrooms (+12.1%) were among the eight categories also growing strongly compared to November 2019.

Only Workwear & Safetywear (-2.9%) sold less. Total like-for-like value sales were 22.2% higher.

Year-to-date Total value sales January to November 2021 were up 31.5% compared with the same 11 months in Covid-affected 2020, with two less trading days in 2021. All categories sold more. Year-to-date sales were also up 15.9% on January to November 2019, again with two less trading days in 2021.

Kevin Tolson, Commercial Director at Wienerberger UK and BMBI’s Expert for

Bricks & Roof Tiles comments: “Many in our sector have performed beyond expectations and have bounced back well from 2020, despite a variety of challenges.

However, the construction industry is often a reliable indicator for wider economic performance, and we entered the fourth quarter with a note of caution.

“Business confidence is holding up according to ONS and CBI surveys, but consumer confidence, captured by GfK in its Consumer Confidence Index, was -17 in October 2021, down four points from -13 in September to its lowest level since February. These will be key areas to keep an eye on during 2022.

“During November, Glasgow hosted the 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26). As a company we’ve been a signatory to the UN Global Compact since 2003, which ensures that we’re focused on driving action and support of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. Our recently launched ‘Let’s Build Beyond’ sustainability strategy ensures our organisation and stakeholders in the UK can see a path to a more sustainable future for construction as we head into 2022.

“While we are busy doing our bit for the planet, it’s good to know we are not alone.

We are seeing many within construction starting to take positive steps in the right direction to becoming more sustainable.

Over time, all of these small steps will get bigger, and they will no doubt combine to bring about significant momentum in our industry and for the environment.”

WANT TO KNOW MORE? BMBI Experts speak exclusively for their markets, explaining trends, issues and opportunities. For the latest reports, Expert comments and Round Table videos, go to www.rdr.link/dac010

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SPECIAL REPORT | HEATING

Hot topic With gas boilers still widely used and understood by both homeowners and SME housebuilders, Sean Keleher, National Technical Manager at Navien, explains some of the latest developments in boiler technology that help to maximise their efficiency.

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he latest gas boilers are renowned for being compact in size, lightweight and easy to install, but how exactly can they help maximise energy efficiency in new build properties? Well, the first port of call should be to utilise a product boasting a high quality and durable heat exchanger.

An essential component of any gas boiler, this has a key role to play in ensuring a long lifespan while maintaining high levels of performance and efficiency.

In order to cope with a wide range of operational environments (and varying levels of water quality), a long-lasting and robust material is required. This has led to the most reliable heat exchangers being constructed from stainless steel, as it can tolerate a wide range of pH values while also providing a high level of resistance against corrosion. This ability to operate in differing levels of pH further minimises reliance on chemical water treatments, without compromising durability or performance.

Flue options Of course, there are other factors equally as essential in achieving optimum levels of performance. Take the flue, for instance; not only is this fundamental in terms of safety, it can help further improve system efficiency. There are many horizontal and vertical options available of varying maximum lengths – each determined by their design and diameter.

At Navien, we use the Ø60/100 plastic concentric flue system on our own gas boilers. These can be fitted either through the wall or the roof – although the distance by which they can be extended

14 March Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

varies, as the total possible flue length is determined by the ability of the boiler itself. Although some flues will only extend to around 6-8m, we can offer lengths up to 21m (one of the longest in the industry) for a range of flexible installation options. This is due to the combination of a built-in air pressure sensor and a powerful fan, which allows for the long and difficult flue runs required by some housebuilders and developers.

The air pressure sensor also offers end users improved levels of safety, as it monitors a boiler’s air flow and activates the fan accordingly, ensuring waste gases are successfully expelled through the flue.

Take control Another area where boiler manufacturers have been making waves is in the field of heating controls. Thanks to advances in wireless technology, modern units can communicate with the latest ‘smart’ devices and even be controlled remotely via a smartphone app. This allows the boiler and controls to work in harmony and offer even greater levels of efficiency, particularly in the case of our own Smart Plus system, which can raise the overall ErP rating to ‘A+’.

Furthermore, these devices benefit from additional energy-saving functions, including weather compensation, which is able to precisely adjust the system flow temperature according to external environmental conditions – reducing energy consumption and fuel bills as a result.

Utilising smartphone compatibility adds even more features, including geofencing, where an end user’s proximity to their property influences how a boiler operates

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– causing it to turn on (or off) depending on how close or far away the occupant is from their home. And, this isn’t limited to just one individual, as multiple handsets can be used on the same system, allowing all members of a household to set their own levels of personal comfort – a great selling point for modern family homes.

Future proofing The latest gas boilers to enter the market are being manufactured as ‘hydrogen-

ready’, which will allow them to run on a mixture of hydrogen (20%) and natural gas (80%). The advantage here is that when more sustainable gases are introduced to the grid by the government, the heating system will still be able to function to its full potential without requiring any significant changes or upgrades. As a result, housebuilders and property developers can fit gas boilers in their latest projects without having to worry about any expensive renovations in future.

WANT TO KNOW MORE? For more details on Navien’s heating solutions please go to www.rdr.link/dac012

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SPECIAL REPORT | EV CHARGING

Electric opportunity Legislation regarding the mandatory installation of electric vehicle (EV) chargers in new homes is expected this year. But what will housebuilders and property developers be expected to do, and how will they achieve it? Sam Rawson, Sales Manager Charging, Webasto, summarises the pertinent points for consideration.

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or housebuilders, property developers, or indeed those renovating a property, the new regulatory framework will have a significant impact on the building that is delivered.

Whilst no commencement date has been published (at time of this issue being printed), the UK Government has decided that ‘there will be an adjustment period of no less than six months from the date of the laying of the regulations in parliament and the regulations coming into force’.

This will give adequate time to ensure a robust charging policy is in place to meet the requirements which are:

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16 March Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

Every new home, including those created from a change of use, with associated parking within the site boundary to have an electric vehicle charge point Residential buildings undergoing major renovation, which will have more than 10 parking spaces within the site boundary after the renovation is complete, are to have at least one electric vehicle charge point for each dwelling with associated parking within the site boundary and cable routes in all spaces without charge points All new non-residential buildings, with more than 10 parking spaces within the site boundary of the building, to have a minimum of one charge point and in addition to this, cable routes for one in five of the total number of spaces

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All non-residential buildings, undergoing a major renovation, which will have more than 10 parking spaces within the site boundary after the renovation is complete, to have a minimum of one charge point and in addition to this, cable routes for one in five spaces.

Properties that have their initial building notices or full plan submitted in this period (no less than six months from the date of the laying of regulations in parliament) must begin building work by no later than 12 months after the coming into force date, otherwise the new regulations will need to be met.

There will be a period of adjustment and exemptions to the Building Regulations which states: ●

A period will be put in place between the laying and coming into force of the regulations, during which properties which have their initial building notices or full plans deposited will not be legally required to meet the regulations.

The one exemption for new residential buildings states: ●

New residential buildings where the installation of charge points would increase grid connection costs by more than £3,600 per charge point.

With the number of pure EV vehicles on the nation’s roads growing daily, it was clear

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that a strategy was required to support at home charging. With over 80% of charging currently taking place at home, it was evident that this change to legislation held the key to a successful integration of EVs into the lifestyles of the people in the UK. So how will developers integrate the EV charging infrastructure into their plans and build schedules?

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Making it happen Firstly, it is worth pointing out that the Government is ‘confident that the grid will be able to cope with the increased demand for electric vehicles,’ however, there are steps that developers can take to reinforce this and provide an extra level of security.

1. By installing smart chargers, electricity usage is managed effectively. Once the vehicle is fully charged the charger stops drawing electricity, and the vehicle charges when demand on the grid is at its lowest.

2. Consider agile solutions to support this such as introducing battery storage on housing sites, or load management systems which allow the chargers to ‘talk’ to each other giving an even supply.

It’s basically about putting in what’s needed now, but also future proofing the system. For example, in a non-residential building (with more than 10 parking spaces in the site boundary) not only is it stated that at least one charge point should be installed, but that cable routes for one in five of the total number of spaces should also be installed to future proof network requirements.

What you need to consider When developing an EV infrastructure for a development the following should be considered: ●

Connection location for each parking space – this should be suitable for EVs with different charging inlet locations.

In many cases the optimum position for a future connection location will be at one corner of the parking space

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Ensure that that the charge point is accessible and ensure access for disabled users is also possible Ensure charge point standards BS 7671 are met Choose charge points from a reputable manufacturer that meet the following technical requirements; Designed and installed in accordance with appropriate parts BS EN 61851; minimum rated output of 7kW; have charging status indicator; a minimum of Mode 3 or equivalent Consider how best to provide the charging facility for multi-occupancy dwellings to ensure it is accessible, that the facility can be accessed by all residents and that a fair charging payment system is installed Speak directly with EV manufacturers, not all electrical contractors will be able to advise on charge point outputs and options

With final amends to Building Regulations and updates to the Approve Documents B (Fire Safety), M (Access to and Use of Buildings) and P (Electrical Safety) expected soon, final clarity will be achieved to ensure all parties can work together to achieve the forthcoming legal requirements.

Webasto, established in 1901, is a top 100 supplier to the global automotive manufacturing industry. Its NEXT EV charging station gives housebuilders and property developers the ability to provide SMART private charging for all types of domestic properties. Webasto advocates that EV chargers installed now are not only fit for purpose but also future proofed, therefore, partnering with a manufacturer and team of experts that can offer advice and a full-service package as well as a quality product can save time and money in the longer term.

The NEXT EV also brings added value benefits, which includes offering customers different length cables to ensure vehicles can reach the charger depending on where they are parked at the property and options to wall mount or mount on a free-standing unit, giving developers greater flexibility to locate chargers in the best place possible.

Webasto offers everything from the supply of a charge point only, to a full consultation on a new charging infrastructure and everything in between and can help to ensure that all legislative requirements are met.

Checklist Webasto has put together a handy 4A checklist to summarise the key points to consider when including EV charging in your development plans: 1. Analysis – Understanding individual site requirements for EV charging units right through to customer usability 2. Assessment – Current contractors, do they require training or do you need to sub-contract EV fitting to specialists?

3. Application – The installation process, how to implement into your build plan 4. Attention – After care, support for customers whenever they begin their EV journey

WANT TO KNOW MORE? To find out more about how to integrate EVs into a build plan download a White Paper from the Webasto team. Please go to www.rdr.link/dac013

Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer March

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ROOFING & CLADDING

Rainwater and eaves systems R When selecting appropriate rainwater and eaves products for a property, there are a variety of considerations to take into account including performance, aesthetics and sustainability. Brian Bell, Head of Technical Services at Marley Alutec highlights some of the most popular materials and outlines the benefits of marine grade aluminium.

ainwater and eaves products are crucial components for the building envelope, and should they fail to perform, can be costly to refurbish or replace. Failure could also potentially lead to significant property damage. When selecting a rainwater system, it is important to remember that not all products will perform in the same way and of course, just like other building products, will vary in quality.

With this in mind, it is worthwhile considering the benefits of the most common materials used for rainwater systems, which are: PVC, cast iron and aluminium.

Durability Firstly, durability is crucial. Rainwater systems are designed to be left for long periods after installation. Yet, the level of durability varies widely depending upon the selected solution. While some materials provide longevity and peace of mind to both housebuilders and homeowners, others require regular refurbishment and eventual system replacement due to a shorter functional lifespan.

For instance, PVC systems will need to be replaced at least once during a

property’s lifetime and although cast iron will last longer, the system would require maintenance every ten years in order to prevent degradation. Alternatively, high quality marine grade aluminium products offer the best of both worlds, providing a functional life expectancy of up to 50 years with no maintenance requirement aside from periodic cleaning.

Corrosion resistance There are further benefits for properties installed with marine grade aluminium rainwater and eaves solutions. These products will provide superior strength and corrosion resistance from a naturally occurring oxide layer, which reforms should its surface ever become damaged.

Lower quality aluminium alternatives are unable to provide the same level of oxide coating and in turn will show signs of corrosion over time.

The aesthetic of a rainwater system also plays an important role. Bringing the exterior elements of a building together, the right rainwater system can provide the final visual touch to a project, whether it is acting as the key transition between walls and the roof, complementing or

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ROOFING & CLADDING

contrasting the fenestration or framing the front profile of the property.

High quality aluminium solutions can be supplied in a wide range of colours and profiles, with polyester powder coatings to enhance its colour stability and give low maintenance and attractive finishes.

Aluminium rainwater manufacturers also use these coatings to accurately replicate the aesthetic of traditional cast iron gutters and downpipes, should that be the preferred design style.

Environmental impact Lowering environmental impact is of course a key concern for housebuilders and developers during the design and construction process. The good news is that aluminium has excellent credentials in this area. As one of the most sustainable building materials available, aluminium can be infinitely recycled without ever losing its quality. In fact, an estimated 75 per cent of all aluminium ever produced is still in use today. Aluminium rainwater solutions can be fully recycled at the end of its extended life cycle.

Once performance and design issues have been considered, understanding the installation process is next on the agenda.

By selecting products that are simple and efficient to install, projects can be completed at a faster rate. The light weight of PVC systems makes them useful for working at height whereas cast

iron is significantly heavier and often requires multiple installers to carry out a single installation. Aluminium systems are approximately 65 per cent lighter than cast iron, with some manufacturers offering fascia and soffit systems with Hsection joints to perfectly imitate PVC systems to make them as easy to install.

Finally, leading manufacturers should offer full technical support to help resolve any project challenges and Marley Alutec is ideally placed to provide expert advice on any project from conception to completion. This can include the provision of water runoff calculations, carrying out site visits and advising on any bespoke options required.

the right rainwater “system can provide the final visual touch to a project

”

WANT TO KNOW MORE? For more information on Marley Alutec and its marine grade aluminium product range, please go to www.rdr.link/dac014

22 March Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

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ROOFING & CLADDING

Russell Roof Tiles has announced its commitment to becoming a Net-Zero business by 2040.

Targeting zero S

ustainability and reducing carbon emissions throughout the supply chain is of growing importance to housebuilders and recently Russell Roof Tiles added its voice to the list of companies pledging to become net zero.

The company started its sustainability journey over 10 years ago and has now committed to becoming Net-Zero by 2040. Its major focus will be direct emissions (Scope 1 & 2) and will be on the reduction of fossil fuel use, energy efficiency, maximising renewables and procuring green energy.

The company is working with Planet Mark who will be verifying and measuring carbon and social data to reduce emissions.

It is also putting plans in place to support a significant reduction of emissions in its supply chain and downstream activities (Scope 3) and will issue further targets in this area once baseline data is established with Planet Mark.

Daniel Hancox, Business Support Manager at Russell Roof Tiles is currently heading the Net Zero task force. He commented: “We are dedicated to reducing the impact we make on our environment. Our new Net Zero strategy has been developed in support of our existing Environmental & Responsible Sourcing Policies, to set a clear roadmap and define specific objectives that will minimise our contribution to climate change and our impact on the planet. It supplements our existing environmental

24 March Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

objectives and enhances our ability to meet the expectations of all stakeholders.”

Sustainability commitment In the last five years the company has reduced its environmental impact already by investing in terms of both time and money in changing policies and adopting new technologies as part of its sustainability commitment to reducing its carbon footprint.

It has worked to source materials locally and has signed up to the SME Climate Hub, which is a government initiative aimed at getting SME businesses in the UK on the path to Net Zero. The company also recently achieved gold status with the Supply Chain Sustainability School, an initiative that represents a common approach to addressing sustainability within supply chains.

Andrew Hayward, Managing Director at Russell Roof Tiles added: “This is our most significant announcement on our commitment to sustainability, a journey which we started many years ago. We are pleased now to be able to give specifics on our Net Zero pledge and work with customers and suppliers to reduce our impact on the environment.”

WANT TO KNOW MORE? For more information please go to www.rdr.link/dac015

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KITCHENS & BATHROOMS

Mira Opero

The modern shower experience Mira Showers explains why smart controls, hassle-free installation and sustainability are at the forefront of today’s shower experience.

Mira HeatCapture

Mira Activate

26 March Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

H

aving recently celebrated its centenary year, Mira Showers continues to develop showering technology. From designing the world’s first thermostatic valve to creating solutions for the bathrooms of today, the company is looking to the future with designs that maximise efficiency and come with sustainability credentials. Here are three of the company’s recent innovations.

Mira Activate comes with a stylish digital display and controller linked to app technology that allows consumers to create personalised showering experiences, using up to ten customisable shower pre-sets, or creating their own.

Digital showering technology has sustainable advantages that allow users to be more eco-friendly when they shower – Mira Activate enables the monitoring of water usage via the Mira Showers app, as well as the control of flow and temperature.

Mira Opero offers luxury showering with easy installation and new technology.

With a push-fit, spanner-free, front of tile installation that gives the appearance of a built-in shower, the model has been designed to be easy for installers to fit.

It includes the Mira HydroGlo technology – a warmup feature that lets users know the shower has reached its desired temperature with a glowing light, which is self-powered and needs no electricity, batteries, or extra wiring. The shower also utilises Mira CoolShield – a safety technology that stops heat transferring to exposed surfaces of the

shower valve and Mira Magni-flo, which delivers high flow levels with water pressures as low as 0.1 bar.

Heat recovery Mira HeatCapture is a waste water heat recovery product that utilises heat from the bathroom wastewater to increase the efficiency of a domestic heating system, so that the boiler applies less energy to heat water as the required heat rise has been reduced.

With hot water demand being added to the Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) regulations for 2025, Mira’s HeatCapture can help developers ensure new building projects are in line with these regulations. The solution can increase the overall hot water efficiency of a new home by up to 10%.

Mira HeatCapture is designed with a double wall stainless steel heat exchanger. The ridged stainless-steel core ensures water exiting the shower waste or bath clings to the side of the tube to transfer its heat to the cool incoming mains. Conforming to EN1717, the steel heat exchanger is suited to new build applications. The solution is tested and certified by WRAS, KIWA, BRE as well as being SAP registered.

WANT TO KNOW MORE? For more information go to www.rdr.link/dac016

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Smart thinking Appliances are a vital part of many new build homes. PHPD chats to Anthony Sant, MD of AO Business, to find out what housebuilders need to consider and to discover the growing importance of ‘smart’ solutions.

Q

Kitchens are a vital room in all houses and especially so in new-builds. How can kitchen appliances help to create the right impression in a new home?

Housebuilders need to consider both the design and functionality of their kitchen appliances, especially in new-builds. Fully functional and aesthetically pleasing appliances are crucial to building an attractive kitchen for homeowners – we also recognise retail trends for our housebuilder customers, using the knowledge that comes with having the AO.com retail business as part of our group. A recent example of this is that we’ve seen manufacturers are finding new ways to make luxury items more accessible to customers. Working with such a wide range of manufacturers, we’re able to make this huge selection of kitchen products available for our AO Business customers.

Q

What types of appliances are available from AO?

AO Business offers a vast range of both large and small kitchen appliances, from a number of leading household brands.

Packed with innovative features, many of the appliances available can help customers save both energy and money.

Q

What are some of the latest product developments that housebuilders should look out for?

We are certainly noticing some trends in the type of appliances consumers are seeking out for their kitchens. There’s interest in the whole world of connected living and smart homes – any housebuilder or developer who can provide a ‘smart’ option for their client will have a market

28 March Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

leading proposition. With open plan living on the rise, we also understand that clients now want quiet and peaceful appliances so as not to disrupt everyday life. As people continue to work from home for long periods of time, kitchen appliances must be multi-functional, catering for both our living space and our office space.

The green agenda is also a key driver of change in the product marketplace.

Consumers are becoming more green savvy and want to see products that are more sustainable. For each appliance, we include an easy-to-find data sheet on every product page. Improving energy efficiency and reducing water usage should be a top priority when it comes to designing kitchens for new developments.

At AO Business, we can support this market with longer warranties and services that we believe will enhance the consumer experience in their new home.

Q

What assistance does AO offer to housebuilders in the specification/scheduling process?

Housebuilders can really benefit from having AO Business as a dedicated appliance distributor and installer. As well as helping with product selection and providing excellent service at every stage of the process, your account manager can also advise on the latest trends suitable for each housing development and the best appliances to meet specific needs in your kitchen.

In most cases, products specified by the housebuilder and developers have been set months ago and it is for this reason that our stockholding facilities and supply chain are crucial. With over 1.5 million square feet of warehousing space

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or developer “whoanycanhousebuilder provide a ‘smart’ option for their client will have a market leading proposition.

”

and a logistics network spanning the UK, AO can minimise supply chain disruption by holding over three months’ worth of stock at any time, meaning the right products are always available when they are needed.

Q

Is an installation service available?

As a vertically integrated retailer, we are well-positioned here at AO Business to provide a solution to the everyday challenges that housebuilders face – and this includes providing an experienced installation service. On delivery day, the team will make sure everything is up and running before leaving the property.

Q

Plastic waste is a growing issue in the construction sector – how can AO help keep this to a minimum?

As an environmentally conscious supplier, AO Business has several initiatives in place to help keep waste to a minimum – including a Collect and Recycle service where we recycle old appliances responsibly at our plant in Telford. The appliances we supply are designed to last many years but even at the end of their lifespan, we can safely recycle them at AO Recycling and new products can be created from the plastic at our plastics plant. When delivering to housing sites, we can also remove all packaging and take it away to be recycled.

WANT TO KNOW MORE? For more information on AO Business please go to www.rdr.link/dac017

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KITCHENS & BATHROOMS ROUND UP

TEKA FlexLinea Sinks Teka has launched FlexLinea, a new range of contemporary styled stainlesssteel sinks in two ‘SofTexture’ PVD finishes – Polished Brass and Polished Titanium. FlexLinea also includes new colour coordinating kitchen mixer taps to team with the sinks. Designed with flexibility in mind, the FlexLinea sink can be installed in a number of countertops due to its triple mount installation option allowing undermount, top mount or flush mount.

For more details please go to www.rdr.link/dac018

DOMUS VENTILATION D-dMEV ventilation fans Domus Ventilation has launched the new DdMEV range of single flow, continuous running decentralised mechanical ventilation fans for small to medium size rooms, such as bathrooms and toilets. The D-dMEV, which can be fitted in a wall/panel, ceiling or window, extracts indoor stale air directly to the outside. It comes in 4” and 6” options, each with multi speed selection for flexibility and humidistat and timer. The range features a discreet front flat cover which can be removed for cleaning without the need of tools.

PANELSTYLE New brochure The PanelStyle PVC wall and ceiling panelling collection has launched a new look brochure featuring two new ranges and 13 new decors – offering an extended choice of waterproof decors for the bathroom. The 34-page brochure showcases the full PanelStyle collection which includes a total of 59 decors across its Splashpanel, Proplas and Proplas Tile ranges. The brochure includes a ‘key’ highlighting the benefits of each of the ranges and technical information. It also includes larger format panels on the décor pages to aid with selection.

For more details please go to www.rdr.link/dac020

For more details please go to www.rdr.link/dac019

KUDOS Aqua4ma Evolution Responding to market demand for a more versatile wet-room system, Kudos has launched Aqua4ma Evolution. Aqua4Ma Evolution comprises of a number of wet-room components including a choice of centre or end waste and 25mm deep shower decks, which are individually CNC machined from a solid block of closed cell extruded PVC. The centre waste option comes in seven sizes from 1000x900mm to 2000x900mm and the end waste shower deck is 1340x1000mm. The company’s Aqua4Ma wet-room system was initially introduced to the market in 2010.

For more details please go to www.rdr.link/dac021

FISHER & PAYKEL Freestanding Range Cooker with Induction cooktop Fisher & Paykel has released its first Freestanding Range Cooker with Induction cooktop, which pairs a large capacity convection oven with induction cooking hob technology. The induction cooktop features five cooking zones that can be combined to form SmartZones, providing the flexibility for users to select the size of cookware that suits their needs.

The range cooker’s ten oven functions include Bake, Fan Bake, Fan Forced, Fan Grill, Grill, Pastry Bake with Pizza mode, Rapid Proof for bread making, Roast, Rotisserie and True Convection.

For more details please go to www.rdr.link/dac022

30 March Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

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PRODUCTS IN PRACTICE

BRETT MARTIN Cascade Cast Iron Style Brett Martin’s Cascade Cast Iron Style Rainwater System has provided period detail and long-term performance as part of a new housing development within The Lambton Estate in the northeast of County Durham. As part of a long-term restoration scheme to help fund the conservation of historic Grade I and Grade II listed buildings within the estate, the first phase has seen Miller Homes complete 64 new properties for the new Eastern Village.

The three, four and five bedroom homes and one and two bedroom apartments have Victorian design features including red brick detailing, sash windows and decorative ridge tiles and chimneys.

To meet the design requirements across the homes, POD Architects specified Brett Martin’s Cast Iron Style Cascade Rainwater System comprising 106mm Prostyle and 112mm Roundstyle Gutters, 68mm Round Downpipes and Ogee Hoppers, all in classic black.

Commenting on the specification, Adam Lee at POD Architects said: “This exceptional development is in a unique setting and required an approach to materials that would draw on the estate’s existing buildings whilst ensuring an architectural legacy. It is the highest quality cast iron replica rainwater product on the market and we are incredibly pleased with both its performance and aesthetics.”

The classic black colour specified for the Cascade system at Lambton Park is one of eight heritage colours including Anthracite Grey, Oxford Blue, Chartwell Green, Olive Green, Graphite Grey, Sandstone and Porcelain White. Cascade is UV stabilised for a maintenance-free system which comes with a 10-year guarantee.

For more details go to www.rdr.link/dac023

WAVIN Acoustic Soil Plus (AS+) Mitigating noise pollution is a key concern for developers and contractors working on new apartment complexes.

Contractors Coulson Building Group used Wavin’s Acoustic Soil Plus (AS+) solution to address potential issues of internal noise pollution coming from waste systems at a 68 flat-property in Darwin Green, near Cambridge.

AS+ features technology which provides advanced noise reduction capabilities, including a material composition that absorbs sound through increased pipe thickness and density. This allows the system to have a structure-borne dB rating of less than 10.

David Grundy, Associate Director at Coulson Building Group, said: “We love to see new products and innovation in the industry, and we weren’t disappointed with AS+. Not only does it help us to exceed the required acoustic levels, but we also found it to be simple to install.”

For more details go to www.rdr.link/dac024

FASSA BORTOLO Fassarend systems Leading Italian render manufacturer, Fassa Bortolo, has recently completed work on a period property in Surrey. The high specification residential project required a finish to retain its premium appearance and period charm.

Covering a total space of 5,500m2, the project was carried out using one of the Fassarend systems, which includes applying SP22 primer directly onto existing brick work before adding a layer of K17 base coat. K17 was applied direct onto the new medium dense blockwork, then both cycles were finished with FX526 primer and RX561 siloxane topcoat.

Andy Sampson, Business Development Manager for Fassa across the South-East commented: “We’re delighted to have been involved in this project and to be invited to specify for yet another project with a returning contractor.”

For more details go to www.rdr.link/dac025

32 March Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

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STIEBEL ELTRON Water heaters / panel heaters Stiebel Eltron has installed its SHC 10 GB Eltron small water heaters and CNS Trend panel heaters at a luxury residential development at the former Branston Court business centre in Birmingham.

The Grade-II listed building is in the process of transforming 41 of its units from office space into luxury one-bedroom apartments. Stiebel Eltron recommended its CNS Trend range of panel heaters which were sized accordingly for the development.

The developers also required water heaters that took up minimal space in the apartments. Stiebel Eltron specified its SHC 10 GB Eltron, which provides domestic hot water without delay and a one-meter power cable for permanent connection, with a variable temperature selection from 35°C to 65°C. Adrian Poutney, Property Manager at Branston Court said: “Stiebel Eltron fitted the 10-litre unvented water heater to source hot water to the kitchen sink and bathroom basin. This was fitted in the cupboard underneath the kitchen sink and the pipework runs into the bathroom in each apartment to maximise space.

Meanwhile the CNS Trend panel heaters boast a 2000W heating output for an even and quiet room heating function.”

Mark McManus, Managing Director of Stiebel Eltron UK, said: “The SHC 10 GB Eltron is one example of the many small water heaters that we offer. Thanks to the highly effective thermal insulation, hot water is available constantly, with minimum energy expenditure.”

For more details go to www.rdr.link/dac026

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GENERAL BUILDING

CEMEX ReadyBlock Zero CEMEX has introduced a zero carbon concrete block, designed to significantly lower carbon emissions within the built environment by reducing the impact of new build construction. ReadyBlock Zero is a zero carbon concrete block which comes with the residual CO2 offset to make it a CarbonNeutral product, in accordance with The CarbonNeutral Protocol.

For more information go to www.rdr.link/dac027

REHAU Modular tee fittings In an effort to offer greater flexibility to contractors in the supply and installation of district heating networks, polymer pipework supplier REHAU has launched a new range of modular tee fittings. The new range of softsoldered brass fittings is available in any configuration of pre-fabricated 25mm-110mm outlets, over 600 modular tee combinations have been set up in advance, with larger sizes up to 160mm also available in the future.

For more information go to www.rdr.link/dac028

MEDITE SMARTPLY Sure Step Medite Smartply has launched Sure Step, a new tongue and groove, structural OSB/3 panel with improved slip resistance and durability. The lightweight panel for flooring and roof decking, has been designed to improve performance during the construction phase of projects. It has a UV cured specialist coating, which is manufactured in-house at Smartply, that has been designed to sustain the effects of the weather and construction foot traffic while reducing the slip risk.

For more information go to www.rdr.link/dac029

A. PROCTOR GROUP Wraptite UV The Wraptite external airtightness membrane is being extended further with the introduction of Wraptite UV – a Class B fire rated membrane that combines the properties of vapour permeability and airtightness into one self-adhering product.

Designed for use behind open jointed cladding, Wraptite UV has water and UV resistance. In addition, the product provides a shadow gap detail behind open jointed façade systems in offsite construction, rainscreen and timber cladding systems.

For more information go to www.rdr.link/dac031

CONSORT CLAUDGEN Consort Connect app Consort Claudgen have launched the Consort Connect app which allows users to have control over their heating remotely via their smartphone or tablet. The app is free and downloadable from Google Play or Apple Store. It can control Consort’s Wi-Fi enabled heaters and SL heaters connected to an SLPBWIFI wireless controller. It gives access to four operating modes and provides a 7-day timer with twenty-four heating periods per day. Other features include a lock function, open window tracking and response capability, and custom automations.

Küppersbusch competition In the November/December issue of PHPD there was a competition to win a Küppersbusch Pyrolytic oven. The winner was Mrs A Dodge of Elm Tree Homes (South West) in Taunton.

For more information go to www.rdr.link/dac030

ADVERTISEMENT INDEX A. Proctor Group Ltd ........page 23 www.rdr.link/DAC100

Freefoam Building Products ..page 15 www.rdr.link/DAC104

Professional Builder Live ..page 4 www.rdr.link/DAC108

Saniflo Ltd ..........inside front cover www.rdr.link/DAC112

Caple ....................................page 27 www.rdr.link/DAC101

Jigsaw Capital Ltd ..............page 7 www.rdr.link/DAC105

Quickslide Ltd ............pages 18, 19 www.rdr.link/DAC109

Triton Showers ....................page 9 www.rdr.link/DAC113

Fassa UK Ltd ......................page 20 www.rdr.link/DAC102

Layher UK Ltd ......................page 11 www.rdr.link/DAC106

Reginox UK Ltd ..................page 31 www.rdr.link/DAC110

Webasto ..........outside back cover www.rdr.link/DAC114

Franke ..................................page 29 www.rdr.link/DAC103

Marley Ltd ..........................page 25 www.rdr.link/DAC107

Rocket Door Frames ........page 33 www.rdr.link/DAC111

West Fraser ..........................page 13 www.rdr.link/DAC115

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LAST WORD

With demand for homes in London and other major cities possibly returning to prepandemic levels, how can we adapt our style for urban living? Steve Hird, Director at Edward Thomas Interiors offers some insight and looks at what makes apartments so appealing?

The Inside View: A return to city living?

O

ne of the common misconceptions about these types of homes is they require compromise, but this isn’t always the case.

Most apartments follow an open plan layout with a large kitchen/dining/living space and, if you think about it, this is hardly dissimilar from the majority of larger new build homes. The challenge is how to style this space. Using the logical flow of the property is a great place to start, you want to avoid creating pinch points with bulky objects or pieces of furniture.

Consider using temporary screens or partitions to create distinguishable areas for dining, relaxing, exercising or home working. And for extra illusions of space, add mirrors and lighting.

It’s also advisable to think about your styling holistically; what’s the overall look and feel you aspire to? Is it an industrial, NYC-inspired loft, a bohemian retreat, modern and minimalist Japandi or perhaps bold and contemporary? Whatever you choose, make sure your colours, fabrics, metals and materials flow through the property to create a sense of synergy.

Another benefit of apartments is they’re not ageist. Homeowners from all stages of life can embrace apartment living, from first time buyers and young couples to professionals and the retired.

They don’t have to be confined by convention either, if it has two bedrooms why not turn the guest one into a home

office, craft room or gym and ensure you’re maximising your use of space? On one of our recent retirement properties for McCarthy Stone, we styled the second bedroom as a study/snug to show how it could provide an additional, habitable living space.

Finally, although outdoor space is likely to be more limited with an apartment, don’t let this be a deterrent. If you have a balcony or terrace, add outdoor furniture, throws and lighting to make a cosy, hyggestyle bistro. Or why not create a vertical garden with window box vegetables and plants? Don’t overlook indoors either, add plants, botanical fabrics and artwork, or even consider adding a living wall to make a striking feature.

WANT TO KNOW MORE? For more information please go to www.rdr.link/dac032

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