Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer October 2021

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PROFESSIONAL

HOUSEBUILDER & PROPERTY DEVELOPER

WWW.PHPDONLINE.CO.UK

OCTOBER 2021

BENEATH THE SURFACE Select the appropriate underfloor heating for your project

INSULATION & SUSTAINABILITY

GROUNDWORKS & DRAINAGE

Reduce the use of plastics and packaging on site by switching sealant and adhesive products

The latest updates to JCB’s backhoe loaders – Ensure appropriate drainage in the garden

LAST WORD: DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS FOR RETIREMENT HOMES

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CONTENTS

PHPD OCTOBER 2021 VOLUME 15 NUMBER 8

REGULARS 5 First Word 6 News 9 Developments 32 Market Report 33 General Building Products 34 Product Focus: OSB 35 Last Word

SPECIAL REPORTS 11

Cutting carbon Sapphire Balconies explains what the company is doing to reduce carbon and how its solutions can help developers

14 Less is more Can interlocking concrete tiles help increase onsite efficiencies and overall build quality?

HEATING 16 From the ground up Ashley Cooper from WMS examines how to select the appropriate underfloor heating solutions for differing floor constructions 19 Hot property PHPD hears about a development in Wiltshire which used an air source heat pump to help achieve its sustainability ambitions

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New Developments

INSULATION & SUSTAINABILITY 26 The rise of the conscious consumer Stuart Lane from Triton explores the importance of residential water usage and examines the growing influence of the ‘conscious consumer’ 28 Switch your sealant system Andy Cummins from Geocel looks at the cost and environmental benefits of switching sealant and adhesive products

30|

35|

Managing stormwater

Interior design

30 Redefining rain gardens Could rain gardens become a way for developers to reduce stormwater discharge and meet emerging legislation?

23|

Garden drainage

GROUNDWORKS & DRAINAGE 23 In the right garden ACO Water Management’s Oliver Collins explains the importance of rainwater mitigation and garden drainage 24 Power play Backhoe loaders are a common sight on sites across the country.

PHPD reports on the latest updates to JCB’s range

Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer October 3

Carbon negative.

Positive future.

At West Fraser (formerly known as Norbord) all our engineered wood panels have been certified as being net carbon negative. We lock up more carbon in our products than we emit making them, helping the UK construction sector comply with net zero targets.

uk.westfraser.com/carbon-negative

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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. © 2021

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

The hot topic The Future Homes Standard seeks to ensure that new-build homes have significantly lower carbon emissions than existing properties. Planned for introduction by 2025 the new requirement would have an impact on how new-build homes are heated, with low carbon solutions coming to the fore.

A variety of options are available which include technologies such as Heat Pumps (both Ground Source Heat Pumps and Air Source Heat Pumps), electric solutions, hybrid systems and bio-fuels such as HVO. For some developments, often larger ones, district heating systems may also be considered.

However, it is Heat Pumps – and in particular Air Source Heat Pumps – that seem to have caught the imagination, with the Prime Minister calling for the installation of 600,000 Heat Pumps a year by 2028. You can read more about how a Heat Pump was used in a development in Wiltshire in this issue. Please turn to page 19.

One impact of a wider adoption of Heat Pumps could be the way heat is distributed through a house. Radiators remain an option and new designs are already available that are more suited to low temperature systems.

Underfloor Heating (UFH) is another technology to consider – particularly when paired with a heat pump. In this issue we have information on which UFH systems suit different flooring constructions found in homes. To find out more please turn to page 16.

Any changes in standards have the capacity to cause confusion. To help developers, many heating systems manufacturers offer assistance to ensure appropriate solutions are used and problems are avoided. Also, with new low carbon heating systems becoming more widely available heating engineers are becoming more familiar with the installation and maintenance of these solutions.

Plus, this change is not due for a few more years, allowing housebuilders and developers a little more time to research the options and become more knowledgeable about the solutions available for new homes.

For housebuilders there is a lot to focus on at the moment, but the drive to create more sustainable homes remains. So it is encouraging to see how both heating manufacturers and housebuilders are rising to the challenge, developing and implementing the solutions necessary to lower carbon emissions.

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

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NEWS In Brief ■ Plumbing and drainage manufacturer Wavin has launched a new ‘Wavin Rewards app’ as part of its ‘Gear Up’ campaign. The mobile app gives customers points every time they buy the company’s products, including the Hep2O and Osma ranges. Daniela Gould, Marketing Director at Wavin UK & Ireland, said: “It’s important to us that our customers know we appreciate their support, and so by launching the Wavin Rewards app, we can give them something back with every purchase they make.”

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

Taggart Homes unveils expansion plans

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aggart Homes has revealed plans for a number of new schemes across the UK, as well as its intention to acquire a home building company and new land for development to grow the brand.

Since launching in the UK back in 2018 Taggart Homes has worked on acquiring and developing multiple housing schemes across the Midlands and South of England, and plans for 11 new sites have

been announced in these locations.

Michael Taggart, CEO of Taggart Homes, said: “Taggart Homes is advancing steadily in the UK and have ambition to continue growing and evolving. We will be looking to link up with landowners and corporate financial advisors with sites for sale, and we wish to talk to business owners who would be open to forging partnerships, with a view to being incorporated into Taggart Homes.”

■ Over one in ten (11%) of businesses started in the past year were in construction and building, according to a study by business financial platform Tide.

Looking at data from Companies House, overall there were 21.8% more businesses incorporated in the UK in the year to March 2021 compared to the previous year. To view the full findings got to www.rdr.link/db001 ■ Industry body Homes for Scotland (HFS) has announced it will work collaboratively with new Green Ministers Patrick Harvie and Lorna Slater in support of net zero transition ambitions following their appointments. HFS Director of Policy Fionna Kell said: “We value our collaboration with the Scottish Government and will continue to work positively and constructively with Ministers as we all seek to address the climate emergency.”

■ The Builders Merchants Building Index (BMBI) has reported that record breaking value sales in June helped Builders’ Merchants hit their best ever quarter since the BMBI began in July 2014. In Q2 2021 total value sales were up 24.1% on Q1 2021 on two less trading days. Ten out of the 12 product categories sold more over the period with Landscaping (+48.3%) and Timber & Joinery Products (+41.3%) especially strong. For more details see page 32.

6 October Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

Climate Neutral Now pledge

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outh-West based housebuilder, Newland Homes, is marking its 30th year in operation this year by signing up to the United Nations’ Climate Neutral Now pledge, to demonstrate its commitment to sustainability.

Climate Neutral Now is a voluntary international scheme which encourages and supports organisations to act now in order to achieve a climate neutral world by 2050.

Jeremy Drew, Developments Director for Newland Homes commented: “This is a significant undertaking for our business, involving a fundamental step forwards in our mindset.

By signing the Climate Neutral Now pledge, we made a commitment to measure our greenhouse gas emissions, implement means to reduce them, to consider offsetting, and to report our progress

annually. The construction industry is estimated to contribute 10% of global greenhouse gases, so as a sector we have to be at the forefront of change.”

Newland Homes has spent the last two years investing in measures to decarbonise its homes. Its first zero carbon homes have commenced construction and will be launched in the early part of next year in the North Somerset village of Tickenham, closely followed by zero carbon homes in other locations.

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Springfield Properties welcomes first electric van into fleet

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cottish housebuilder Springfield Properties has welcomed its first electric van to its fleet. The move is part of a wider sustainability strategy designed to reduce its carbon footprint.

The van, which will be used by staff at the company’s kit factory in Elgin, is the first of its commercial vehicle fleet to be replaced with an electric model.

Innes Smith, CEO at Springfield Properties said: “We are excited to have welcomed the first electric van into Springfield Properties’ fleet. This is the first step towards implementing all-electric vehicles across the business as we

Sought after new-build locations revealed

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recent study of consumer demand for new build homes has revealed that nine out of the top 10 most sought after locations are located north of Birmingham.

Conducted by kitchen fixtures supplier Insinkerator, the ‘sustainable housing development’ study reveals the towns & cities in the UK which claim to be the most in-demand for new build residential properties.

Despite the rankings being dominated by locations north of Birmingham, Northampton in the East Midlands was found to be the most in demand location for new build homes. The Scottish cities of Edinburgh and Aberdeen feature in second and third spot with York and Leicester making up the top five.

Kevin Carr, UK Sales Director at Insinkerator, said: “We conducted this study as part of our research into UK housing trends and we have uncovered some extremely useful findings, both for suppliers and housing developers. Using this innovative means of gathering data we can see where consumer demand for new build homes lies month on month.

We’ve also been able to tap into what features home buyers are including on their wish-lists when looking for new properties and can see how this has become much more green-focused.”

Full details on the study can be found at www.rdr.link/db002

continue our journey on improving our sustainability.”

Springfield Properties also recently installed a bank of new electric charging stations at its offices in Larbert and Elgin, as well as a duel charging station at its Elgin kit factory. There are also moves to install temporary mobile charging points across its construction sites.

New partnership between Edward Thomas Interiors and Owl Homes

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nterior design specialist, Edward Thomas Interiors has completed the installation of three sales centres, cementing its partnership with new client, Owl Homes.

In just six weeks, the company has designed and styled a sales office at Poet’s Rest, Polesworth alongside show homes and sales centres at Massey Place, Hilton and The Orchards, Upton Snodsbury on behalf of the Tamworthbased housebuilder.

“It’s been a busy summer for us and a

pleasure getting to know the Owl Homes team,” said Steve Hird, Director at Edward Thomas Interiors. “Their developments are all in locations that offer the very best of town and country and this is something we’ve tried to reflect in our designs.”

Bianca Cullis, Head of Sales and Marketing at Owl Homes added: “Obviously we’re trying to inspire house hunters as much as possible and Edward Thomas Interiors has produced some really eye-catching and striking designs to achieve this.”

Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer October 7

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DEVELOPMENTS Piper Homes – new development in the Cotswolds Construction is underway at Piper Homes’ latest site in the Cotswolds. The new development, Royale Gardens, will be the company’s seventh live site in the Midlands area with previous developments – Ebrington Rise near Chipping Campden and The Grange, Longborough – sold out.

Once complete, the development in Upper Rissington will comprise 26 new homes in a range of two, three, four and five bedroom house designs, all individually designed for the development. The first home at Royale Gardens will be ready for occupation in January 2022.

For more information go to www.rdr.link/db003

Gloucestershire…

E-mail your latest developments to phpd@hamerville.co.uk

Oxfordshire…

Deanfield Homes – achieves planning at Stanton Harcourt Deanfield Homes has been granted planning for its latest Oxfordshire development, ‘Deanfields’ in the village of Stanton Harcourt, Oxfordshire. The 11 acre development will feature 40 homes and will also benefit from over six acres of landscaped open space for residents and the wider community.

Peter Blades, Managing Director of Deanfield Homes commented: “The development has been thoughtfully designed to ensure that it complements the existing character of the village and the extensive areas of open space will make this a unique and sought after setting.”

For more information go to www.rdr.link/db004

Avant Homes – four new developments Yorkshire housebuilder Avant Homes is set to deliver 442 newbuild properties for the region across four new development sites.

The new sites include Chaucer’s Green in Hatfield, Elliott Place in Castleford, Radford’s Meadow in Micklefield and Ambretone Park in Green Hammerton.

Avant Homes Yorkshire Managing Director, Chris Coley, said: “We’ve seen great success across sites in Barnsley and Doncaster that we launched at the beginning of 2021, so we’re pleased to be extending our presence across the Yorkshire region with a further four new developments.”

For more information go to www.rdr.link/db005

Yorkshire…

Clifton Gardens – luxury new homes in Clifton Mulberry Homes has launched its sixth development in Bedfordshire. Clifton Gardens will consist of a collection of two, three, four and fivebedroom homes.

Kerry Jones, Sales and Marketing Director at Mulberry Homes, said: “We are thrilled to be continuing our success within Bedfordshire and providing local property seekers with a brand-new collection of homes that they can feel proud to call theirs.”

For more information go to www.rdr.link/db006

Bedfordshire…

Abbey View – Construction work to begin at Bourne development Work is set to begin at a new Bellway housing development which will bring 373 new homes to Bourne. Plans for the development, to be named Abbey View, were approved by South Kesteven District Council earlier this year. The site, which spans 30 acres, is the final phase in the Elsea Park development scheme, which began 20 years ago.

Philip Standen, Managing Director of Bellway Eastern Counties, said: “Abbey View will include a mix of two, three and four-bedroom private homes, as well as 37 one, two and three-bedroom homes designated as affordable housing for local people through rent or shared ownership.”

For more information go to www.rdr.link/db007

Lincolnshire…

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SPECIAL REPORT

Cutting carbon Q

With sustainability of growing significance within the sector PHPD speaks to Nick Haughton, Head of Marketing UK & Global at Sapphire Balconies, to find out what the company is doing to reduce carbon and discover how its latest balcony solutions can help developers.

Sustainability is a topic of growing importance within the construction sector. What steps has Sapphire taken to rise to this challenge?

Our commitment to sustainability is nothing new, we’ve been working to make our Glide-On balconies more environmentally efficient for years. This is underpinned by our ISO14001 accreditation which we’ve held for 12 years, since 2009.

The way we strive to continue to improve the sustainability of our balconies is rooted in our commitment to R&D and innovation. From embracing technology like COACH to streamline design and cut down material waste, to designing carbon out of our balconies to investing in a greener future through carbon offsetting.

One way we’ve designed carbon out of our balconies is through the continued development of new innovations. For example, a hallmark of our balconies is their exceptional anchor performance thanks to robust engineering and our lightweight balconies. Fewer anchors mean fewer penetrations of the façade, which in turn reduces carbon emissions and cost. Not only do our anchors help cut carbon through improved thermal performance but also through reducing the amount of material used per balcony which cuts carbon in manufacturing.

Thermal performance is integral to creating greener buildings. This is because heat is lost through penetrations in the façade, leading to greater energy use to keep homes warm and therefore greater carbon emissions. It is estimated that 25% of carbon emissions come from homes and with the Government’s target to reduce greenhouse emissions by 80% by 2050, it is essential to cut carbon wherever possible.

In addition, we’re working with sustainability experts to better understand what we and the industry can do to improve. We’ve set rigorous targets to tackle our embodied and operational

carbon and in the meantime, we’re offsetting our carbon emissions through credits with carefully selected conservation efforts.

Q

When taking a sustainable construction approach, what are the key considerations in balcony design which affect this?

During construction, the main source of carbon is the embodied carbon which includes the materials used as well as shipping and hidden the carbon emissions in things like staff travel to site.

Designing out weight with aluminium balconies reduces the number of penetrations in the façade affecting both embodied and occupational carbon.

Opting for offsite manufactured balconies brings the benefits of improved efficiencies in production cutting emissions and waste.

This also minimises the number of staff travelling to site creating emissions from vehicles and facilities.

The industry should also make use of the digital tools available to predict the environmental impact of a building at the design stage. For example, at Sapphire we have software that enables us to predict the heat loss per year of a balcony design, allowing clients to adjust designs as needed with this insight.

Q

What help is available to housebuilders in understanding the sustainability impacts of balconies?

Sustainability is a complex topic made all the more overwhelming when considering the scope of a residential project. We’ve spoken with a myriad of experts each passionate about improving the sustainability of construction to create a range of resources.

Our suite of digital tools includes COACH, our balcony configurator, and our thermal calculator which allows designers to see the performance of their balcony in real-time as they design it. We also offer a carbon CPD which delivers all our research findings and allows construction

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SPECIAL REPORT

professionals to ask their questions directly as well as a carbon Whitepaper with indepth data and guidance.

It can be challenging to cut through the theory and find firm solutions costeffectively, we hope our support can provide the industry with the guidance they need.

Q

Do the material choices I make when designing a balcony make a difference regarding sustainability?

In short, yes. The embodied carbon in construction materials varies widely and can be an unseen source of emissions.

Concrete, for example, entails significantly more embodied carbon than other materials and requires linear thermal breaks along the full connection to the building to reduce heat loss. This not only

drives up costs but also adds substantially to the footprint of the project.

Steel bolt-on balconies are substantially heavier than aluminium creating more emissions during transport as well as requiring significantly more anchors and therefore façade penetrations.

Aluminium on the other hand may not appear the best option when comparing per tonne with steel, but this is an inaccurate comparison. A tonne of aluminium goes much further and produces more balconies than a tonne of steel making it much more carbon efficient.

Aluminium is also very easily recycled and our Glide-On balconies are almost entirely recyclable. At the end of their lifespan, our balconies can be removed as easily as they were installed and sent for recycling to continue in the circular economy.

WANT TO KNOW MORE? For more information on Sapphire Balconies please go to www.rdr.link/db008

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SPECIAL REPORT

Less is more Chris Piper, Sales Director for Housing Developers at Ibstock PLC, which includes the Forticrete brand, discusses why developers should choose interlocking concrete tiles to increase on site efficiencies and overall build quality.

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s a durable and lightweight alternative to natural clay plain tiles, interlocking concrete roof tiles provide an effective and affordable option to support professionals in achieving these aims, as they significantly increase the overall speed of installation, without requiring additional labour or resources.

Becuase the tiles are interlocking, only a single lap is necessary to ensure weather tightness. This substantially reduces the quantity of tiles required, whilst also effectively minimising the number of timber roof battens and roof trusses that must be fitted. The end result is an installation that is a third quicker to fit and offers cost savings of up to a third, when compared to plain concrete roof tiles. This enables developers to complete

projects at a faster rate, without compromising the water tightness or longevity of the roof.

Equalling the same size as two standard plain tiles, Forticrete’s Gemini concrete roof tiles are double cambered to achieve the aesthetic appearance of a traditional plain tile, with just 16.3 tiles required per square metre, compared to 60 standard plain tiles. As Forticrete’s Gemini concrete roof tiles are constructed using Lafarge Cement’s SustainaCem, they also feature substantially reduced embodied carbon, providing professionals with a more durable and environmentally friendly tile that delivers improved longevity and minimises product waste.

Low pitch option As interlocking concrete tiles can be laid to pitches as low as 22.5O, whilst standard plain tiles can only be laid to pitches as low as 35O, developers can achieve a faster rate of building across a diverse range of property types and styles.

Taking this one step further, additional interlocking concrete roof tiles, such as Forticrete’s Centurion range, can be laid on pitches as low as 10O, for single storey features, such as the construction of porches and canopies. As the tiles are also interlocked, they further increase onsite efficiencies, even when working to such a low pitch.

Colour combinations As both types of roof tiles are manufactured using the same high quality ingredients, a unified aesthetic can be achieved across the entire roof. Here developers can choose

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from popular traditional plain tile colours, such as mixed russet, slate or red, to effectively replicate the visual appeal of plain tiles, whilst significantly reducing the number of tiles required.

Traditional sandfaced tiles also feature subtle colour blends using red or grey palettes to reflect the aesthetic of older properties, making them the ideal choice for rural environments, particularly for developments where there may be stricter requirements as part of the planning process.

Accessories Professionals should also work with manufacturers that offer a complete and complementary range of roof tiles and accessories, including dry fix fittings and ventilation systems. This not only effectively minimises lead times, but also

ensures a perfect fit, as each element has been manufactured to be directly installed with one another. Because the materials are supplied by the same manufacturer, developers can also be confident the entire installation is backed by comprehensive warranty, to provide both themselves and potential occupiers with complete peace of mind that the property will continue to perform to the same high standards for years to come.

As the rate of building is projected to continue its upward curve throughout the remainder of 2021, developers can take a proactive approach to meeting these increased levels of demand, whilst simultaneously achieving the highest quality installation possible, by choosing interlocking concrete tiles and complementary roofing accessories.

WANT TO KNOW MORE? For further information on Forticrete’s solutions goto www.rdr.link/db009

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HEATING

The most common method of incorporating UFH is to include the pipework within the floor screed build-up in the initial stage

Ashley Cooper, Managing Director at WMS, a supplier and installer of underfloor heating systems, discusses how underfloor heating can be specified to suit differing floor constructions, ensuring the right solution is specified for every new build, retrofit project or specialist renovation.

Get it right from the ground up W

ith underfloor heating offering efficiency, safety, freedom of design and the ability to seamlessly pair with renewable technologies to name a few advantages, it’s clear to see why it’s a popular choice for every property type. While all of these benefits are possible with an underfloor heating system, it doesn’t mean there is a one size fits all solution for every project and getting the system specification right for differing sub floors is essential.

Screeded

AmbiDeck 18 low-profile underfloor heating system, which incorporates an insulation layer and can be tiled directly onto

16 October Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

The most common method of incorporating UFH is to include the pipework within the floor screed build-up in the initial stage – in this instance, the underfloor heating pipework is sequenced before the screeding process.

This solution offers a quick, cost effective and flexible form of heating within a screeded floor build-up, while also providing maximum output.

The majority of solid floor build-ups will require an insulated screed to meet building regulations – as such, it’s important to look for an underfloor heating system which can easily be accommodated

into most floor applications without affecting the overall floor build-up. The AmbiClip Cliprail is our most specified system for this type of installation, as it can be fixed securely to any insulation board and is very cost effective.

To avoid any damage to the underfloor heating system, it’s advisable to schedule the screeding process immediately after installation. Also, ensure your underfloor heating contractor is notified if a liquid screed is being used, as the whole floor area must be sealed with a polythene layer to prevent screed from escaping.

Floating Unlike a screeded system, a floating underfloor heating system is typically laid directly onto a sub-base of concrete or chipboard, or in between timber battens, to create a bespoke system. A floating system, such as our AmbiFloat 10 solution, requires a flat and level sub floor for the insulation to fully support the floor finish on top.

With this floating solution, the insulation is part of the underfloor heating system and is pre-grooved to take the underfloor heating pipework, then

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The most “common method of

overlaid with either a foil or aluminium diffusion plate to assist the distribution of heat. To ensure this system meets any bespoke requirements, each polystyrene insulation panel is manufactured per project to suit the underfloor heating design drawings.

The system is then overlaid with a fully floating floor deck, onto which the floor finish is applied. In the case of wooden floors, this can be laid directly on to the insulation to minimise height build-up and maximise the heating output.

Low profile When it comes to retrofit applications where you’re working with the existing floor construction, before installing the underfloor heating system it’s key to ensure that the concrete or timber-based sub floor is flat and level. Then for the underfloor heating itself, a slim underfloor

heating system is desirable to ensure minimal floor build up.

The lowest profile systems will also incorporate insulation, such as AmbiDeck 18 where the high-density 18mm XPS insulation panel is also cement-coated, making it rigid and durable. Grooves are then pre-formed in the panel to take the underfloor heating pipework, with a radius return grooved into each panel.

To keep the floor build up minimal, you also need to consider the floor finish. Tiles and wood flooring can be laid directly over most, insulated, low-profile systems – removing the need for an additional layer beneath the floor finish. However, other finishes such as carpets or vinyl will require an intermediate board layer, prior to the finish being installed – adding to the build-up.

incorporating UFH is to include the pipework within the floor screed.

”

Bespoke Even if your project has specialist design and installation requirements, thanks to the flexibility of underfloor heating, with the right design and installation the property can benefit from an efficient system.

For solid wall properties as well as for some new builds and extensions, for example, a highly specialised ‘breathable’ system may be required, such as AmbiSublime which has been designed for use on lime screeded floors. It also boasts excellent environmental credentials and ease of installation, despite the bespoke nature of the solution.

The key with any underfloor heating installation is to work with a supplier which can assist with the design, including pipework layouts and heat output calculations – and, if necessary, create a bespoke system to suit your specific project specifications. That way you can ensure a smooth installation and maximum output from the finished system.

WANT TO KNOW MORE? WMS offers a full UFH CAD comprehensive design, supply and install service. For further information about WMS GOTO www.rdr.link/db010

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HEATING

Hot property PHPD hears from Grant, whose Aerona³ air source heat pump was recently installed at a development in Wiltshire.

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he number of air source heat pumps being installed is increasing year on year and these figures look set to grow; the UK Government has announced its ambitions, committing to net zero carbon emissions by 2050 and manufacturers are now gearing up to meet demand.

Householders too are more aware of the need to lessen their dependency on fossil fuels.

The recent Future Homes Standard consultation response also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to heat pumps, targeting a 31% reduction in carbon emissions for all new homes which would be achievable through fabrics standards and low carbon technologies. In a recent announcement, the Welsh Government committed to renewable energy and cutting-edge technologies in its new-build standards and banned fossil fuel boilers in new social housing from the 1st October 2021. All of this new legislation and the UK’s Net Zero commitments are driving the use of renewables by housebuilders and developers.

Farmhouse development A four-bedroom farmhouse built on the border of Wiltshire and Berkshire, has had a renewable heating system installed including a Grant Aerona³ air source heat pump, hot water cylinder and heat emitters. This property completes the development of four sustainably built homes, all of which have heat pumps fulfilling their heating and hot water requirements.

In 2018, the development of these new homes commenced in Ramsbury, a village based on the outskirts of Marlborough.

The final property onsite to be completed was this farmhouse, the largest of the four homes. The developers, Polgate Ltd, were adamant that all of the properties needed to be sustainably built and able to operate as efficiently as they could so a renewable heating system was the solution.

Managing Director of Polgate Ltd, Howard Porter, explains why air source heat pumps were selected for this development. “It had to be a renewable source of energy,” says Howard, “as we have not used oil, gas or solid fuel for

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HEATING

over a decade. After working with our independent energy assessor at the design stage, we were easily able to achieve the Planner's requirement of a Code 4 level of efficiency using a high insulation input with the Aerona³, even for such a large home.”

The final property built, the farmhouse, was completed in May 2021. This 3,500 square foot farmhouse has four bedrooms (with the design potential for five bedrooms), including a master suite, three bathrooms plus a spacious downstairs living area comprising of the kitchen,

sitting room and study. The heat loss calculation for this large farmhouse, which was carried out by Grant UK’s Design Team, determined that the twin-fan, Aerona³ 17kW R32 heat pump was required to fulfil its heating demand.

“It took around five years to get the current planning resolved, but you look at the site now and it makes perfect sense,” explains Howard. “The courtyard setting of the cottages is very private, and the whole site is landscaped and the boundary soft screened with natural hedging, Holme Oak and many other specimen trees.”

WANT TO KNOW MORE? For more information on heat pumps, renewable training opportunities and a virtual tour of a development which is utilising heat pump technology go to www.rdr.link/db011

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GROUNDWORKS & DRAINAGE

combination helps ensure the design of the garden is complemented by the aesthetics of the drainage.

Wildlife considerations

In the right garden I ACO Water Management’s Oliver Collins explains how emphasis on the garden is set to continue into 2022.

n June, the Office for National Statistics announced that 8.4 million people worked from home at least one day a week in 2020. With more companies introducing hybrid working policies, many homeowners are looking for ways to improve their homes.

One of the areas which is seeing demand for improvements is the garden.

Whether it is a personal gym, outdoor office space, or even a personal pub, 2021 has seen a growing demand for secondary structures. However, those working on such structures must ensure rainwater mitigation is taken into account.

As with any outdoor structure, it is critical that water, which would usually soak through the natural area, is appropriately managed. However, with the aesthetic appeal of a garden of paramount importance for homeowners, selecting a discreet drainage system is often non-negotiable.

Selecting a robust yet stylish drainage system is achievable, without compromising performance. ACO’s RainDrain, for example, is a robust system designed specifically for domestic applications, that offers a wide range of gratings made from different materials as part of its ‘Complete the Look’ range. This

Garden improvement trends don’t stop at secondary structures. Creating comfortable, landscaped spaces are also proving popular, thanks in part, to the considerable house valuation benefits it provides.

According to research by Post Office Money, landscaping a garden can increase property value by 77%. However, those looking to deliver significant landscape projects must ensure local habitats are supported, particularly as biodiversity protection is expected to increase in importance for future housing projects.

The long-awaited Environment Bill is due to come into force in the UK in the coming months, meaning environmental principles will become a legal requirement.

For housebuilders and developers looking to meet the latest garden trends, while being mindful of protecting biodiversity, introducing rain gardens, swales or ponds can play an important role in protecting dwindling species.

Biodiversity With trends to improve and upgrade garden spaces expected to continue into the new year, having an understanding of how biodiversity can be protected is critical. To support those in the construction industry, ACO has collaborated with 60 partners and supporters to launch a new campaign which aims to explore the challenges we face.

Habitat Matters is a series of webinars and podcasts which looks at how we can create, maintain and improve natural habitat in the built environment. The series will discuss the way in which the construction industry can better protect biodiversity and habitats in the UK, highlighting how we can integrate habitats within the built environment.

WANT TO KNOW MORE? To register for the free Habitat Matters webinars, goto www.rdr.link/db012

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GROUNDWORKS & DRAINAGE

Power play PHPD reports on the latest updates to JCB’s backhoe loaders.

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urable, versatile and hardworking, backhoe loaders are a common sight on developments across the country, and recently JCB has introduced some new models to bring even more features to its range.

The company has introduced the 3CX, 4CX and 5CX PRO backhoe loaders, with the adoption of Stage V compliant engines on all models. The 3CX PRO is a two-wheel steer machine, the 4CX PRO boasts all-wheel steer for increased allterrain performance and the four-wheel steer 5CX PRO delivers the company’s ultimate backhoe loader specification for bulk earthmoving.

Amongst the features on the machines are a new JCB CommandPlus Cab, which has been revised inside and out, new JCB Automate features designed to make the machines easier to use, and enhanced safety features as standard.

Advanced automation The 3CX, 4CX and 5CX PRO models benefit from a range of advanced automation features, designed to boost productivity and ease of use. This includes Auto Stop, which detects when the machine is no longer being used and shuts down the engine to reduce fuel consumption and unnecessary engine wear.

Auto Seat Select and Auto Stabilisers are standard on servo models, with the seat now recognising which way it is facing and automatically switching between loader and excavator modes. As well as existing Auto-up stabilisers, the system can now automatically extend and stop when the feet reach the ground.

Auto Level, on AEC models, automatically levels the machine to a horizontal position on uneven ground.

24 October Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

Design features The Stage V 3CX, 4CX and 5CX PRO backhoe loaders are instantly recognisable, with a newly designed roof that integrates LED beacons into the corners of the structure, ensuring that the machine can be clearly seen from all angles.

Up to 10 LED work lights provide a larger area of illumination that can be more easily controlled by the operator.

Bolt-on yellow grab handles improve safety and there are larger exterior mirrors to improve rearward visibility.

Driver enhancements Inside the new JCB CommandPlus Cab, the interior has a split colour line, with darker grey material in the lower half and lighter colours in the upper half. The revised operator’s seat, which can be heated and air suspended, has a darker material with enhanced grip. A headrest is now standard on Advanced Easy Control (AEC) models and optional on manual control machines.

The new steering wheel has an enhanced grain to reduce wear and a threespoke design for improved visibility of the updated front screen. The cab also comes with a factory-fit Bluetooth radio, with USB and Aux compatibility that can be controlled from the rotary switch on the side console.

In addition, the heating and ventilation controls have been repositioned to the Bpillar, making them easier to reach whichever way the seat is positioned.

Additional secure storage has been located next to the radio, with a lockable compartment for smaller items.

WANT TO KNOW MORE? For more details on JCB’s Stage V 3CX, 4CX and 5CX PRO backhoe loaders please GOTO www.rdr.link/db013

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INSULATION & SUSTAINABILITY

The rise of the conscious consumer W

Sustainability is becoming a core component of housebuilding, with the rise of the ‘conscious consumer’ highlighting the importance of placing environmental considerations front and centre. Stuart Lane, Trade Sales Director at Triton, explores the importance of residential water usage.

26 October Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

ithin the housebuilding sector, and indeed the construction industry as a whole, sustainability has been a key focus for a number of years. Legislation, such as the Future Homes Act, has provided a framework for new housing developments to be measured against, and there is increasing awareness over managing environmental factors within the supply chain.

Water wastage The issue of water wastage, surprisingly, has received less attention, despite warnings that the UK is likely to face shortages in the coming years.* Much of this is down to overly-porous infrastructure, where leaks cause three billion litres of lost water each day. But it should also be emphasised how much domestic consumption contributes to the problem.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), 50 litres of water per person each day is the minimum required to cover basic needs. Compare this with the average consumption of 141 litres per head in the UK, and it is clear where gains can be made.

As housebuilders will be all too aware, Part G of the Building Regulations requires all new homes in England and Wales to limit consumption to 125 litres for each person every day. When you consider that much of a home’s water demand, as well as a large proportion of its energy usage, comes from bathrooms, it is apparent that this needs to be an area of significant focus.

The conscious consumer Historically, developers have been faced with the challenge of trying to adhere to environmental principles, without impacting consumers by compromising on design or increasing costs. Recent research undertaken by Triton has revealed a more sustainability-minded approach from house buyers, which is encouraging news for housebuilders looking to incorporate these principles into their projects.

For example, 86% of respondents said that water wastage was an important issue to them, while 80% said they expect housebuilders to develop homes that are environmentally friendly. This shows the extent to which consumers are concerned with sustainable properties, and highlights how housebuilders can respond to this demand.

Intriguingly, a further 60% of those surveyed by Triton said it was necessary for homeowners to engage with the water waste problem themselves, illustrating the willingness of the end user to make informed choices. In part, this is going to come down to habitual changes from

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consumers, with shower manufacturers like Triton supporting this paradigm shift with tools such as its water and energy savings calculator.

But it also means providing the right bathroom products and appliances to offer users the chance to reduce their impact on the environment. Just under 55% of respondents to Triton’s survey expected to pay more for eco-friendly products, even though they are rarely more expensive than standard options.

Electric showering Naturally, electric-based hot water technology will be key to this challenge, given that it only heats what is needed.

Triton’s research, for example, found that by opting for an electric shower over a mixer, an average family of four could save more than 48,000 litres of water.

With electric showers set to play a key role in reducing domestic water and energy consumption, developers should ensure they take advantage of the latest technology. Triton’s electric range is designed to provide an energy efficient option for all tastes and budgets, ranging from the sleek Amore to the household favourite T80 Pro-Fit. Crucially, these options not only offer increased efficiency, but a great user experience too – without compromising on style.

Sustainable partners As previously touched upon, the sustainability challenge extends beyond the housebuilder-consumer relationship. It encompasses the entire supply chain, including installers and manufacturers, right through to government level.

This is why Triton has launched its ‘Moving the Dial’ campaign, to raise awareness of the various sustainability initiatives it has undertaken in order to minimise its impact on the planet – as well as supporting customer in meeting their own demands. It serves as a demonstration of how others can follow suit, and ultimately reduce water and energy consumption in UK homes. _______________________________________________ *

https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2020/jul/10/parts-ofengland-could-run-out-of-water-within-20-years-warn-mps

WANT TO KNOW MORE? For more information, please go to www.rdr.link/db014

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INSULATION & SUSTAINABILITY

Switch your sealant system Andy Cummins, Senior Product Manager at Geocel, looks at the cost and environmental benefits of switching sealant and adhesive products.

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n a recent Considerate Constructors Scheme survey, 95% of respondents agreed that the construction industry needs to make a change in terms of its consumption of plastics and packaging, with 81% suggesting that the industry is currently not doing enough. As it stands, the sector consumes 23% of all UK produced plastic and is responsible for sending 50,000 tonnes of it to landfill every year.

As non-hazardous landfill capacity in England has diminished, landfill costs are on the rise, more than tripling since 2008.

Furthermore, as of April 2022, a new tax will be introduced, designed to hit companies that produce or import plastic packaging with insufficient recycled content. As a result, the cost of production of plastic packaged products is likely to increase too. Ultimately, all these costs will be passed along to the developer.

Therefore, it is imperative to discourage the use of plastic products and reduce the impact of your development. One simple and effective change is to ensure your trade professionals switch from using traditional sealant and adhesive cartridge systems during the construction process.

This is because it is impossible to completely clear traditional cartridges of residue, and as such they are classed as ‘contaminated’ waste and cannot be recycled. Subsequently 100 million of these plastic cartridges are sent to landfill every year. That is a staggering number and one that can absolutely be reduced with the buy in of developers and their trades.

to cut the foil, insert it into the sleeve, attach the nozzle and then apply with any standard gun as normal. As such, using the system requires little effort, but will contribute significantly to a reduction in plastic waste. The sleeve can be reused 75 times before it is finally recycled, whilst the used foils are eight times lighter than traditional cartridges.

With popular products such as Geocel’s Painters Mate, THE WORKS PRO and DOWSIL™ 785+, 796 and 799 aluminium foils, developers can rest assured that quality is not compromised and the standard of finish is always maintained.

To try the system for free, Geocel has recently launched the ecoSEAL Challenge.

Participants will be asked to select their choice of a sealant or adhesive from the available options, which they will get sent alongside a reusable ecoSEAL sleeve – completely free of charge.

For developers who want their teams to trial the new system and encourage them to take the ecoSEAL Challenge, please visit www.rdr.link/db015

Reduce plastic waste Companies like Geocel have offered a solution to help. This involves replacing the disposable cartridge with a reusable plastic sleeve and foil alternative. Known as the ecoSEAL system, users simply have

28 October Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

WANT TO KNOW MORE? For more details on Geocel go to www.rdr.link/db016

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INSULATION & SUSTAINABILITY

Redefining rain gardens T

Jon Stewart, Business Development Director for Drainage at Polypipe Civils & Green Urbanisation, explores why rain gardens are one way for developers to meet emerging environmental legislation.

he Government’s Environment Bill, which comes into force next year, will bring unprecedented reform to our foremost environmental priorities.

Amongst the many significant changes will be the need for water companies to publish a water resources management plan, as well as strategies for drought, flood and overall catchment resilience.

In recognition of the growing burden on combined sewers, the Bill also focuses on building capacity into the water undertaker’s drainage and sewerage system to meet current and future demand, and requires reporting on storm overflow performance annually. For housebuilders, this means there will be increased pressure from water companies and planning authorities to reduce stormwater discharge when designing and building developments.

The Environment Bill also brings a further significant change for developers through Biodiversity Net Gain and the requirement to achieve a minimum of 10 per cent improvement in biodiversity on or near a new build site to get planning consent.

These changes mean developers must now re-evaluate how to introduce green infrastructure, to ensure that residential developments comply with sustainable drainage best practice and deliver an uplift in biodiversity post-completion.

Fortunately, this forthcoming legislation also coincides with a broadening of the range of sewer types that utility companies can adopt as part of the changes to Sewer Sector Guidance (SSG).

This means developers can consider new solutions, including those that go way beyond traditional sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) to benefit individuals, communities and the environment.

The next generation Traditionally, rain garden design has been limited to a small area of plants and shrubs intended to hold and soak away rainwater run-off, with systems ‘plugged in’ to existing drainage networks, collecting

30 October Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

water from roofs or driveways. However, when created as part of green urbanisation – the next generation of water management technologies – the scope and capabilities of rain gardens can be much wider, intrinsically linking stormwater collection to green asset creation.

Breakthrough shallow invert geocellular sub-base replacement systems can be installed under rain gardens, as well as SuDS tree pits and engineered swales, creating a powerful foundation for water management and re-use. Comprising interconnected cells with geometric ties, these systems form a uniform structural ‘raft’ with exceptionally high load-bearing characteristics, but critically, also allow water to be stored safely at source.

This means the water collected immediately beneath the rain garden can be used for irrigation, with surface planting sustained by drawing stored water from the raft through special ‘wicking cones’ – a netzero process called ‘passive irrigation’. As well as making the landscape more resilient in extended dry spells, re-using water in this way helps remove stormwater that would otherwise go into the combined sewer network.

As part of green urbanisation, these sub-base systems – which are versatile in their application and unrestricted by drainage networks – can be used to create rain gardens within hard landscaping as longer, linear SuDS systems or in new build gardens where soil quality is poor but buyers want the ability to sustain plants and trees.

While legislative changes may bring new challenges to developers, by working with forward-thinking manufacturers of new green urbanisation solutions, it is possible to tackle excess stormwater and achieve biodiversity uplift simultaneously, all the while producing attractive, saleable developments that benefit future owners long-term.

WANT TO KNOW MORE? For more details use www.rdr.link/db017

PB Live - PBM_Layout 1 24/08/2021 12:14 Page 1

THE TRADESHOW FOR PROFESSIONAL BUILDERS

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MARKET REPORT

June delivers record sales for merchants

The latest figures from the Builders Merchant Building Index (BMBI), published in August, reveal that record breaking value sales to builders and contractors in June helped Britain’s builders’ merchants hit their best ever quarter since the BMBI began in July 2014.

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

32 October Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

Quarterly sales up Compared to Q2 2020, Total Builders Merchants value sales were up 96.0% in Q2 2021, with no difference in trading days. Tools (+151.4%) had the highest yearon-year increases, with Kitchens & Bathrooms (+141.3%) also reporting strong growth. Q2 2021 total sales were also up +20.3% on Q2 2019 – a more normal preCovid year – see chart.

Quarter-on-Quarter Sales Q2 total value sales were up 24.1% on Q1 2021 with two less trading days. Ten out of the 12 product categories sold more. Only Plumbing, Heating & Electrical (-3.5%) and Workwear & Safetywear (-11.4%) sold less.

Bumper June Total sales for June 2021 were 29.5% higher than the same month last year, with all categories selling more. Timber & Joinery Products recorded its highest ever BMBI monthly sales (+57.5%), despite continuing material shortages. Heavy Building Materials also chalked up its best-ever monthly sales (+22.7%).

Total sales for June 2021 were 11.1% higher than May, helped by three extra trading days. All categories sold more, with Workwear & Safetywear (+16.7%), Timber & Joinery Products (+15.2%) and Kitchens & Bathrooms (+12.2%) outperforming merchants generally.

Index The Q2 BMBI index was 149.7 with one less trading day. Landscaping (237.5) and Timber & Joinery (183.0) were the strongest performers, with Renewables the only category below 100 (77.2).

Expert Comment Jim Blanthorne, Managing Director of Keylite Roof Windows and BMBI’s Expert for Roof Windows commented: “Anyone who hoped the challenges facing our sector would disappear during Q2 will have been disappointed. Throughout our industry, we continued to see strong demand with exceptional raw material supply issues.

“Sales performance in the quarter was consistently high, well ahead of forecast, driven by strong demand from new build and RMI. The clock was ticking on UK Government stimulus of the property market, prompting property transactions at their highest level since the 2008 financial crisis and extraordinary demand on the construction product sector.

“The healthy sales volume put yet more pressure on an already strained supply chain.

The roof window category has a relatively long supply chain and exposure to a truly global marketplace. This brought challenges including Covid capacity reductions, shipping delays and commodities in high demand, such as timber and electronic chips, which were diverted to whichever market was willing to pay the highest price.

“None of the broad range of materials used in the manufacture of roof windows have been immune to supply disruption this year, while substantial material cost inflation is putting an unsustainable squeeze on margins.

“At Keylite, our operations and supply chain teams work incredibly hard to keep new stock arriving, using our relative agility to largely shelter customers from these measures. We will continue investing in both stock and manufacturing capacity to support our customers in advance of what we expect to be a strong second half.”

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, goto www.rdr.link/db026

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GENERAL BUILDING

KNIGHTSBRIDGE – 2022 CATALOGUE Lighting – wiring accessories – handy size The Knightsbridge 2022 catalogue features over 600 new products detailing a number of solutions in wiring accessories and lighting. The handy A5-sized publication is divided into easy-to-reference sections and provides full product details along with lifestyle photography and detailed product images. Information about industry and product certification is also included in this edition. The digital version, which can be found on the company’s website includes interactive links to relevant product webpages.

For more information go to www.rdr.link/db018

GRANT – QR CYLINDER RANGE slimline – cabinet option From October, a new range of 14 cylinder models will be available from Grant UK, suitable for installation alongside gas and oil boilers, solar thermal systems and air source heat pumps. The new cylinders comprise of single and twin coil variants as well as pre-plumbed and slimline models.

The company has also unveiled its first cabinet cylinder model – the QR Integrated Cylinder – which packages a QR pre-plumbed single coil 210litre cylinder within a white casing suitable for kitchen or utility room installations.

EUROCELL – ENVIROTILE lightweight – recycled – roof tile Envirotile, a recycled polymer tile, is now available at Eurocell for specification alongside the company’s Equinox solid roof system. The solution forms a fully interlocked covering for roof pitches as low as 12.5°.

Manufactured in the UK using 75% recycled content, Envirotile provides a lightweight, easy-to-install interlocking roof tile system.

The tile is available in two finishes, standard and a textured slate effect, both of which are available in four colours.

For more information go to www.rdr.link/db022

For more information go to www.rdr.link/db019

IDEAL HEATING – ALFEA HEAT PUMP Quiet – space saving – renewables The Alfea Heat Pump combines a quiet, compact heat pump, a hot water cylinder and an easy to use thermostat. The compact outdoor unit can be located up to 30 metres away from the building, whilst design elements of the indoor unit, including an integrated buffer tank and expansion vessel, help to save space inside.

The Alfea has been designed with intuitive control and intelligent weather compensation which monitors internal and external temperatures.

For more information go to www.rdr.link/db020

MEGAMAN – TEGO 2 INTEGRATED LED DOWNLIGHT adjustable – fire-rated Megaman has launched its fully fire-rated TEGO 2 integrated LED downlight, which includes the option to change both the beam angle of the fixture and the colour temperature. Featuring the company’s Dual Beam Technology (DBT), the TEGO 2 has two beam angles - 60° and 36°- available in one fitting. By pressing the lens, the beam angle can be changed by the installer or the end user. Dual CCT 2800K & 4000K can also be activated by twisting the lens once installed. This provides customers with the advantage of toggling the colour temperature between warm white or cool white, as well as adapting the beam angle – all while the fitting is in situ.

WERNERCO – BOSS POD RANGE heavy duty podium – integrated ladder Ladder and access tower manufacturer, WernerCo, has expanded its range of BoSS Pod low-level podiums with the addition of the BoSS Pod 1500. Designed for working at fixed height for long durations, the BoSS Pod 1000 and new 1500 model are heavy-duty podiums offering an all-in-one solution specialised for single person use.

Whilst the BoSS Pod 1000 offers a safe working height of 2.95m, the new 1500 enables users to reach up to 3.45m. The compact solution includes pivoting stabilisers and an integrated ladder.

For more information go to www.rdr.link/db023

For more information go to www.rdr.link/db021

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PRODUCT FOCUS: STERLING OSB ZERO

The ‘Zero’ hero With environmental impact a key concern for developers, West Fraser outlines how its SterlingOSB Zero can help housebuilders meet emissions targets.

O

SB, or Oriented Strand Board to give it its full name, is often used as a substitute for chipboard and plywood in applications such as flooring, roofing and timber framing. There is good reason for this: OSB is versatile, easy to use and has high consistency and board strength. SterlingOSB Zero or ‘Sterling Board’, as it is often known, is a widely used and trusted structural panel.

In simple terms, OSB is formed of flakes or strands of timber bonded with resin adhesives in some 50 crossdirectional layers. These are then mechanically pressed to create a structurally engineered board.

Resins used to bind the flakes of SterlingOSB Zero contain zero-added formaldehyde. With less resin and more wood, the boards are more environmentally friendly and safer while performance is unimpaired.

Carbon negative The other important way that West Fraser’s SterlingOSB Zero can help specifiers and builders towards their environmental targets is that the boards do not contribute to climate change; they are certified carbon negative.

In-depth life-cycle assessment of carbon emissions in buildings is increasingly resulting in the building sector being advised to design and build

with wood. As wood naturally absorbs carbon as part of its natural life cycle, it is an ideal replacement for other materials with high levels of embodied carbon.

The UK government has pledged to be carbon neutral by 2050. This target will require the UK to bring all greenhouse gas emissions down to net zero.

SterlingOSB Zero products can help the construction industry comply; the net carbon negative status of the boards can be used by building designers to off-set the operational emissions of a building.

Long term storage Every SterlingOSB Zero board removes more carbon from the atmosphere than is emitted during manufacture, locking it up into long term storage within the board.

Per cubic metre, SterlingOSB Zero sequesters 828kg of CO2e. The wood used is homegrown, minimising carbon emissions from transport while ensuring it is always available and offers a costeffective building solution.

WANT TO KNOW MORE? To obtain free samples of SterlingOSB Zero products please use www.rdr.link/db024

ADVERTISEMENT INDEX ACO Technologies plc ................................................page 25 Goldcrest Finance Ltd ..................................................page 12 Grass Concrete Ltd ........................................................page 27 GROHE Ltd ......................................................................page 18 Ibstock PLC ........................................................................page 8 JCB ....................................................................................page 22 Marmox (UK) Ltd ............................................................page 20 Professional Builder Live ..............................................page 31

34 October Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

Quickslide Ltd ............................................outside back cover Resapol Ltd ......................................................................page 15 RWC (UK) Ltd ....................................................................page 13 Saniflo Ltd ......................................................inside front cover Superglass Insulation Ltd ............................................page 29 Uform ................................................................................page 10 West Fraser ................................................................pages 4, 21

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LAST WORD

Design for retirement living

A

Steve Hird, Director at Edward Thomas Interiors, discusses some design considerations for retirement homes.

report released recently suggested loneliness brought on by the pandemic has softened perceptions of retirement villages and that the benefits; a sense of community, the opportunity for active social lives, and convenience, are becoming more widely embraced. Communal lounges were closed for over a year as part of the national lockdowns, forcing people to not only re-value what they represent but also re-think how these typically tired and neglected spaces could be used.

Our starting point for designing any shared rooms is remembering that it’s an extension of someone’s personal living space. Unlike a show home, where the priority to is to highlight the space and incite imagination, a retirement living lounge, dining room or reception needs to create that hygge sense of warmth, wellness and comfort, somewhere to enjoy spending time.

Once this is established, we think about location. What has motivated a move? What is attractive about the lifestyle of the area? For example, if it’s city centre, is it about community and embracing local amenities? If it’s more rural or coastal, is it about being outdoors and connecting with nature? Our styling can then reflect this, from colour palettes and wallpaper patterns to furniture choices and layouts.

Design inspiration For instance, at a recent scheme in Stowon-the-Wold, we took inspiration from the market town’s heritage and adopted a country, hunting lodge design with plenty of warm tones and fabrics. Similarly in Tettenhall, our brief was to create a boutique hotel ambience so we added lots of botanical upholstery and artwork, a big trend for this year, together with panelling and gold accents for a sense of arrival.

From here, we try to define the type of space. More often than not, it’s something

multi-functional. Somewhere uplifting for people to socialise, play games, read, watch a film, have visitors, or even pause to reflect. We achieve this by using a mix of patterns, prints, furniture and lighting to create distinctive zones yet still retain an overall flow and clear concept.

We’ve also recently started commissioning bespoke joinery to build honesty bars, complete with bar stools, panelling and cosy cluster seating to make a focal point or somewhere to meet visitors.

Changing needs We also have to think practically. Whilst the average retirement age certainly isn’t old, people’s needs change and these spaces have to be adaptable and accessible. So for instance, furniture needs to include a mix of seating that is comfortable but easy to move around and reconfigure depending on the activity. We avoid cushions that are too cumbersome or heavy. In dining rooms, we follow a bistro style so that wheelchairs can be accommodated.

For us, it’s all about inclusive and considerate design. Many of today’s modern apartment schemes all feature gyms, salons, pools, etc, and are built around a lifestyle, why should the older generation be any exception? Obviously there is a question of affordability, and this will vastly depend of the level of care required, but I see no reason why we shouldn’t approach designing for this generation without the same principles. Humans are social creatures, the pandemic has confirmed that, so we should always aim to create welcoming, hospitable and stylish environments to connect, at any age.

WANT TO KNOW MORE? For more information go to www.rdr.link/db025

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