Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer September 2024

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PROFESSIONAL

& PROPERTY DEVELOPER

HOUSEBUILDER WWW.PHPDONLINE.CO.UK

SEPTEMBER 2024

SPECIAL REPORT

How to specify the right drainage

ROOFING, CLADDING & INSULATION the impact of the building Safety act

Energy efficiency and wellbeing benefits of roof glazing balancing thermal efficiency and summer comfort with insulation

KITCHENS & BATHROOMS

What to look for in a kitchen partner Using MDF panels in moisture prone environments Why wetrooms are growing in popularity

Saint-Gobain oFF-SitE SoLUtionS: inStaLLinG rooFSPaCE SoLUtionS’ i-rooF

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CONTENTS

PHPD SEPTEMBER 2024 VOLUME 18 NUMBER 6

REGULARS 5 First Word 6 News 8 Developments 42 General Building 43 Edward Thomas Interiors

SPECIAL REPORTS 10 Take a load off Rob Butcher, Design Services Manager at ACO House & Garden, discusses why load class is a fundamental aspect of a drainage system’s longevity and how developers can ensure they are specifying the right drainage for the job.

ROOFING, CLADDING & INSULATION 12 Raising the roof Simon Garbett, Category Manager for Roof Systems at Wienerberger UK explains how roofing manufacturers are adapting to the Building Safety Act and what this means for housebuilders and architects.

14 Work smarter, not harder Tackling the problem of delivering better homes at a faster rate, Donlad Matheson, Technical Manager for Roofing and Flooring in Saint-Gobain Off-Site Solutions outlines how offsite constructed roofing products may be the answer.

16 Better glaze ahead Paul Higgins, commercial director at TuffX looks at enhancing energy efficiency and wellbeing with roof glazing.

18 Beat the heat As the UK’s weather becomes increasingly unreliable, with warmer summers and colder winters, should new build insulation prioritise thermal efficiency or summer comfort? Mark Cooper, UK and Ireland sales manager at Actis Insulation explains that the two may not be mutually exclusive.

20 Super trooper Rachael Metcalfe, marketing controller at Superglass, explores the company’s latest tools and guides to help specify insulation and explains why customer service is a priority.

14|

Work smarter, not harder

22 The green team Time is ticking on the journey to net zero, but for housebuilders and developers, it’s not a journey they need to make alone, says Colin St John, Commercial Director of Freefoam Building Products.

23 Product round up

KITCHENS & BATHROOMS

36 |

Get your feet wet

32 Tapping into your audience With tangible water, cost, energy, time and space saving benefits, a boiling water tap may be one of the ways to make a kitchen stand out.

PHPD talks to Quooker, the original boiling water tap brand founded in 1970, to find out more.

24 On the cookout Tim Spann, Keller’s UK National Sales Manager discusses what housebuilders should look for in their kitchen partner. 34 Dress to impress The luxury new build project Dryden 27 Resisting the wet Court, developed by Runnymede Can MDF panels be used in humid Homes, has collaborated with and moisture-prone environments?

Hansgrohe to deliver outstanding bathroom aesthetics and best-inBecci Goldsmith, Product Manager at class components to meet and MEDITE SMARTPLY answers and exceed buyer expectations. Read on looks at the benefits of using MDF to find out more. panels in kitchens and bathrooms.

30 Maximum efficiency Paul Stolworthy – Häfele’s Business Development Manager for Functional Spaces, Inclusive Living & Office Furniture looks at the unlocked potential of efficient kitchen design and fit out for housebuilding.

24 |

On the cookout

36 Get your feet wet Over the years the wetroom concept has taken a leap into mainstream popularity and installations in residential properties have become more desirable. So, what do housebuilders and architects need to know about level access shower spaces? We asked Impey’s Shaun Hunt to tell us more.

38 All systems go PHPD chats to Schlüter-Systems about all things bathrooms. Read on to find out more about the company itself and how to fit bathrooms as efficiently as possible and make them really stand out.

40 Product round up

Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer September

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FIRST WORD

Editor Edward Kelly ekelly@hamerville.co.uk Editorial Assistant Finley Cannon fcannon@hamerville.co.uk Advertisement Manager Marcus Hooper 07711 007286 mhooper@hamerville.co.uk Northern Area Sales Ian Duff 07810 353 525 probuilder@sky.com Design Adeel Qadri Group Production Manager Carol Padgett Production Assistant Kerri Smith Circulation Manager Kirstie Day Printer Stephens & George Ltd 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. © 2024

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 — £80 post paid To be removed from this magazine’s circulation please call 01923 237799 or email circulation@hamerville.co.uk

Circulation: average per issue 12,664 (July 2022 – June 2023)

Grand ambitions

Well, rather a lot has happened in the housebuilding industry since writing the July issue. At that time, it was around a week before we elected a new Government, who have since come out the gate guns blazing with new pledges and promises across the board. It’s naturally the Housebuilding Statement that deputy prime minister Angela Rayner made on July 30th that has garnered the most interest within our sector.

In this statement, the deputy prime minister announced a target of 1.5 million new homes to be built over the next five years. In order to achieve this, the powers that be intend to overhaul our planning system, review green belt land and ensure that local governments have thought out and up-to-date housing plans to meet their targets. Green belt land that is less desirable, “grey” and “ugly” will be reviewed and reclassified as “grey belt” land and able to be built upon.

In her statement, the deputy prime minister affirmed this but also stressed that brownfield development will be the first priority: “The first port of call for development will be brownfield land. Reforms announced today will make explicit that the default answer to brownfield development should be “yes” and promote homebuilding at greater densities in urban centres, like towns and cities.

To help deliver 1.5 million homes over the next five years, councils will have to review their green belt land if needed to meet their own target, identifying and prioritising ‘grey belt’ land, which the government has today set out a definition for.

This includes land on the edge of existing settlements or roads, as well as old petrol stations and car parks.”

According to the government’s ‘golden rules’, such developments should “deliver 50% affordable homes, increase access to green spaces and put the necessary infrastructure in place, such as schools and GP surgeries.”

So, what to think of all this? The housebuilding industry certainly seems to feel positive about it for the most part. Neil Jefferson, CEO, Home Builders Federation released a statement, for example, saying: “Today represents the first and most important step ministers have taken in addressing the barriers to delivering new homes. The scale of the government’s housing ambition has given hope to the house building industry that stands ready to increase supply and tackle the country’s housing shortage.”

I suppose the pressing issue is whether any of this is actually achievable. We’re undeniably in a skills crisis in the UK construction industry as it is. Are there enough skilled workers to build all of these homes at this scale? Is encroaching on green belt land a good idea? More than that, will anyone actually be able to buy these new homes? Or will it go completely the other way and will house prices drop through the floor? Who knows, is the real answer to those questions.

I suppose, at least, these housebuilding plans are ambitious. And, after the last government’s decision to back down on mandatory targets (and constant efforts to undermine new developments), this newfound energy is actually a welcome relief. I don’t need to tell any of you how dire our housing supply is and how quickly its being outgrown by our population. Call me cautiously optimistic, but maybe a little ambition is just what we need right now.

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

Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer September 5

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NEWS

U

DIGGING DEEP

K's first construction soils and aggregates exchange platform officially launched.

Earth-Exchange UK is a platform designed to assist UK developers and contractors with the sustainable reuse of construction materials. The website enables members to trade materials, save money and improve sustainability credentials by using an interactive map to search and review sites with a surplus or requirement for recycled materials locally.

Read more at www.rdr.link/dax001

G

MOVING ON UP

lenigan has released its widely anticipated UK Construction Industry Forecast 2024-2026.

The key takeaway from this Forecast is that the construction industry will face near-term challenges including slow economic growth and persistently high interest rates. The outlook brightens as the forecast period progresses. The new Government is already reducing political uncertainty and rallying markets. Policy decisions around construction projects will likely be made at a faster pace, boosting performance.

Read more at www.rdr.link/dax002

6 September Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

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

TARGET ACQUIRED he construction industry has welcomed the Government's commitment to delivering 1.5 million homes.

The Home Builders Federation (HBF) has expressed support for the Government’s steps to tackle the constraints of housing delivery in an industry statement. The statement, which has been signed by more than 30 home builders, comes in response to the Deputy Prime Minister, Angela Rayner’s statement in the House of Commons outlining proposed planning reforms. In the statement, the home building industry says it ‘stands ready to’ deliver high-quality and affordable homes at pace, provide skilled jobs and contribute to economic growth.

Also commenting on the news, Richard Beresford, Chief Executive of the National Federation of Builders (NFB), said it was a positive start but stressed the need for “major reform which explores what the barriers are, not just to local plans and permissions, but the rules stopping spades going in the ground” Read more at www.rdr.link/dax003

first-of-its-kind course is driving skills in measured energy performance to meet increased demand for testing.

The MEP competency scheme from Elmhurst Energy will upskill the sector to support housebuilders in demonstrating as-built homes match the energy performance promised at design.

Delivered online on an on-demand basis, it will teach building heat loss measurement and holistic building

performance evaluation to drive a truer understanding of the real energy efficiency of UK homes and buildings.

Read more at www.rdr.link/dax004

abour could deliver almost half of the 1.5 million new homes planned should it follow through with its plans to reclassify wrongly designated green belt land.

The analysis by Lomond shows that just 1% of the current green belt could provide enough space for over 738,000 homes. England’s green belt covers an estimated 1,638,420 hectares, or 16.4bn square metres, with the majority used for agriculture (65%) and forest, open

land and water (19%).

Read more at www.rdr.link/dax005

A

MIND THE GAP

L

LOOSENING THE BELT

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A

POWERING ONWARDS verage newbuild home is powered by 57% less energy than older homes, according to Home Builders Federation (HBF) figures.

The average homebuyer could save up to £183 every month when choosing a newbuild property over an older home, according to the latest figures.

Under the new Part L regulations, newbuild homes built from June 2023 will use just 31 per cent of the amount

of energy that the average existing property uses.

Read more at www.rdr.link/dax006

ationwide has joined the Open Property Data Association to speed up the homebuying process by sharing digital property information across the housing market.

The move will enable a safer and more transparent homebuying experience. Converting all property data sources and documents to a digital format, and making them

shareable, is a big improvement. The same information is sometimes requested as many as five times by different parties, such as lenders, estate agents and solicitors.

Read more at www.rdr.link/dax007

N

GET DIGITAL

P

WOODLAND EXPLORERS ennyfarthing Homes is making a significant contribution to the Alderholt community by opening up a large section of local woodland for residents.

The High Wood Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace (SANG) is intended to take pressure off protected Dorset heathland habitats and will help create new habitats for wildlife. It is being created as part of Pennyfarthing’s

S

TEACHING POINT

tonebond and Sempra Homes welcomed the school committee of Basildon’s Ghyllgrove Community Primary School to the Ghyllgrove Close development in Basildon.

The scheme is transforming a

T

LAYING FOUNDATIONS

he NHBC Foundation has published a new report; The UK’s progress towards a Passivhaus standard in new homes.

The document considers why the delivery of Passivhaus at scale remains a challenge, as well as highlighting where progress has been made. It also considers the cultural shift needed to construct homes to this standard alongside what the end user needs to know about living in a low energy home.

Read more at www.rdr.link/dax009

B

GAIN GROUND

iodiversity Units UK has released its latest report, The BNG Report: Pricing & Key Insights – July 2024.

The report offers an in-depth analysis of current pricing trends and market insights in the Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) sector. The report, created in partnership with Arbtech Ecologists, compiles data from 38 BNG suppliers across England, examining pricing details, transactions and consulting with industry experts to present an average pricing list.

Read more at www.rdr.link/dax010

ongoing commitment to the natural landscape, as the company provides new homes for residents at Oakwood Grove in Alderholt.

Read more at www.rdr.link/dax008

brownfield site of a former care home to provide energy efficient affordable homes for the local community. The children met with the Stonebond site team in July to gain an interesting insight into the construction industry. Ghyllgrove Close will consist of 34 new mixed tenure homes with private for sale and

shared ownership homes available.

Read more at www.rdr.link/dax011

Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer September

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DEVELOPMENTS 50-HOME BIO-DIVERSE DEVELOPMENT TAKING SHAPE Construction work at Balfour Beatty’s site in Ketton is progressing well, with 50 two, three and four-bedroom homes set to be built near Stamford. A four-bedroom detached Boughton showhome is now ready. There are three and four-bedroom homes currently available at The Crescent, with prices starting from £445,000. Money is being invested into increasing the biodiversity of the location and supplying several affordable homes.

For more information go to www.rdr.link/dax012

500-HOME DEVELOPMENT APPROVED Beal Homes has secured planning approval for a £105m development bringing more than 500 high-quality new homes to the south bank of the Humber. The development on a 57acre-site in Immingham, North East Lincolnshire, will provide new two, three and four-bedroom homes. The development will feature a total of 525 homes as well as areas of public space including two well-equipped children’s play areas.

For more information go to www.rdr.link/dax013

NEW HOMES FOR SHROPSHIRE APPROVED Cameron Homes has secured full planning permission to build 62 new homes in Bomere Heath, Shropshire.

The development will consist of bungalows and two-storey properties, providing two, three, four and five-bedroom homes. 12 will be shared ownership and social rental homes. Residents will have access to a range of facilities and shops, including a primary school, post office, pub, and a village hall.

For more information go to www.rdr.link/dax014 400-HOME PROJECT TO START Castle Green Homes is primed to begin developing a 57-acre site in Congleton to provide 396 new homes. Around two thirds of the development will be affordable housing under a partnership with Torus.

The initial phase of works will create the roads and sewers, before construction of homes begins. Between 100 and 200 people will be working on site to complete the project by December 2026.

For more information go to www.rdr.link/dax015 GROUND BROKEN IN LANCASTER Northstone has commenced groundworks at its latest site acquisition in Lancaster. The new development, Breacla, will be a collection of new homes ranging from 1bedroom apartments to 5-bedroom detached homes featuring a number of ecoleading features, including solar panels, car charging points and triple glazed windows.

For more information go to www.rdr.link/dax016 8 September Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

E-mail your latest developments to phpd@hamerville.co.uk WILTSHIRE SCHEME LAUNCHED Cala Homes has unveiled its latest development in the Wiltshire village of Purton, featuring 47 two, three, four & fivebedroom homes. Homes will feature airsource heat pumps, and the high specification also includes underfloor heating and electric vehicle charging points. Prices for the first released homes start from £470,000 for three-bedroom homes and £760,000 for four-bedroom homes with a separate study.

For more information go to www.rdr.link/dax017

PLANNING APPROVAL IN VERWOOD, DORSET INCLUDING ‘FIRST HOMES’ Approval has been granted for 38 new homes as part of Pennyfarthing Homes’ Potters Wood development, taking the total number on the scheme to 268. 19 units will be designated as affordable ‘First Homes’ designed to support local firsttime buyers and key workers in the area.

The remaining 19 will offer a variety of options for customers, including twoand three-bedroom bungalows and three-bedroom houses.

For more information go to www.rdr.link/dax018

ZERO BILLS SHOW HOME Mid Sussex’s first ever ‘Zero Bills’ show home has been unveiled by developer, Thakeham, at its development in Burgess Hill. The state-of-the-art threebedroom house at Templegate is now available to view. It is part of a wider fully zero carbon community from Thakeham featuring 120 sustainable homes. The development is already proving popular with three reservations confirmed for the Zero Bills homes.

For more information go to www.rdr.link/dax019

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SPECIAL REPORT

Buckled Grating on Driveway

TAKE A LOAD OFF In the housebuilding industry, drainage is commonly misunderstood, especially when it comes to load class. Here, Rob Butcher, Design Services Manager at ACO House & Garden, discusses why load class is a fundamental aspect of a drainage system’s longevity and how developers can ensure they are specifying the right drainage for the job.

S

Buckled Grating on Driveway

omething often seen on housing developments is broken drainage channels. Many of these are damaged from traffic anticipated use, with the root cause of the problem being that the wrong product was originally specified. In these cases, drainage channels are likely to sustain serious damage as traffic bears down on them, beyond the weight limit they were designed to withstand.

The load class of any drainage channel must be based on anticipated use, whether by pedestrians, lorries, or something in between. Each project is different and a high number of factors can impact which load class is correct. To ensure drivers and pedestrians are kept safe and drainage is properly provided for, it is always best to consult with a drainage expert to get the right solution for the job.

Size and speed

In developments where commercial vehicles are expected, it may be best to specify C 250 drainage channels as these can handle a certain size of commercial vehicle as well as cars and anything lighter.

If traffic in the area is anticipated to be moving quickly, it generally recommended to use a monolithic drainage channel. Fast moving traffic impacts channel drains with

10 September Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

more force than slower traffic, meaning there is increased risk of the grating coming loose from the channel. A monolithic channel is a single piece, with the grating and channel as one unit which can lower the risks associated with fast traffic, making the environment safer for vehicles and pedestrians.

Where the channel and grating are separate components, it is important to keep in mind that the load class is determined by both components fitting together correctly. This can be a problem when gratings and channels from different manufacturers are combined. When this happens, the load class rating can become void. For instance, a C 250 grating with a C 250 channel form a different provider will not necessarily make a C 250 system. It is because of these nuances that it is so important to bring experts on board for any project where drainage is an element.

Online tools of the trade

It is vital to get load class right for the safety of people who use the final project.

Along with the load classes of drainage components, housebuilders need to consider their capacity as well. Without sufficient capacity, the channels will simply overflow and lead to flooding whenever an especially heavy rainfall

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Failed Grating and Channel on Driveway

Failed Grating and Channel on Driveway

event occurs. Accounting for the needed capacity will ensure designs meet the needs of the finished development.

Digital design tools and technology can be a vital resource in this regard.

Software such as InfoDrainage or Causeway Flow can be used in conjunction with QuAD, ACO’s online Channel Design software. With these tools, it is possible to incorporate and fully exploit the capacity provided from linear

drainage channels within a whole site drainage model.

Ensuring a thorough understanding of the products, tools, and advice available is the first step to properly specified, longlasting drainage. Consulting with drainage experts such as those at ACO will equip housebuilders and property developers with the knowledge and solutions needed to deliver effective drainage systems for all of their projects.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

For more on QuAD, ACO’s online Channel Design software visit www.rdr.link/dax053

For more about ACO House and Garden, visit www.rdr.link/dax054

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ROOFING, CLADDING & INSULATION

RAISING THE ROOF

A

Simon Garbett, Category Manager for Roof Systems at Wienerberger UK

Simon Garbett, Category Manager for Roof Systems at Wienerberger UK explains how roofing manufacturers are adapting to the Building Safety Act and what this means for housebuilders and architects.

12 September Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

s the UK construction industry adapts to changes brought by the Building Safety Act, roofing manufacturers are at the forefront of supporting housebuilders during this crucial transition. Introduced in the wake of the Grenfell Tower tragedy, the Act aims to enhance safety standards throughout the building lifecycle – from design and construction to occupation and maintenance.

For roofing product manufacturers, the legislation brings new responsibilities and opportunities to collaborate with housebuilders, ensuring safer, higherquality homes. Simon Garbett, Category Manager for Roof Systems at Wienerberger UK explains how manufacturers are supporting safer practices and facilitating more effective roofing projects.

The "Golden Thread" of information

A key principle of the Building Safety Act is the "Golden Thread" of information – a comprehensive digital record that follows a building throughout its lifetime. This requires all relevant data, from product specifications to installation details, to be meticulously documented and easily accessible for anyone who needs it now and in the future.

For roofing manufacturers, this means ensuring that every component – tiles, underlays, insulation – has detailed specifications, installation guidelines, and performance metrics are always readily available. This not only supports compliance with regulations but also helps housebuilders make informed

decisions about product selection and maintenance.

The Golden Thread is only as strong as the accuracy and currency of the information it contains. Housebuilders need confidence that the data they're using is reliable and up to date. It's particularly important for product substitution.

Documenting and communicating every change, including the reasons and confirmation of compliance, is critical for maintaining safety standards. Customers must trust that manufacturers are transparent in this process.

At Wienerberger, our robust internal processes allow us to reliably capture this information and make it easily accessible to housebuilders. Beyond documentation, the Golden Thread requires collaboration among all project stakeholders. From designers and contractors to building owners, everyone must work together to ensure compliance and that information is accurately recorded.

Technology also plays a vital role in maintaining the Golden Thread. We're leveraging digital platforms and Building Information Modelling (BIM) systems to enable real-time updates and easy access to critical data.

Driving innovation and transparency

The Act's focus on continuous improvement and rigorous testing is driving us to innovate and enhance safety features. There's a real opportunity for manufacturers to stand out by showing a proactive commitment to safety and transparency.

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“By working together - manufacturers,

housebuilders, and all stakeholders in the construction process - we can create a safer, more transparent, and more accountable building industry for everyone.”

At Wienerberger, we've increased our research and development efforts to ensure our roofing solutions not only comply with new regulations but also set industry benchmarks. With innovation in mind, we view buildings as dynamic systems rather than just separate products. Understanding how our roofing solutions fit with the entire building is vital for providing housebuilders with effective solutions for safer, more resilient homes.

Manufacturers are being held to higher standards, with roofing products undergoing thorough testing and documentation for compliance. At Wienerberger, we're striving to go above and beyond industry-standard testing and reporting, effectively demonstrating the quality and performance of our products.

Upskilling the industry

A key focus of the Building Safety Act is upskilling the construction workforce to improve competency standards. This means ensuring that everyone, from designers to installers, understands product terminology, technical details, and performance requirements.

As manufacturers, we must help our customers navigate these new compliance demands. Product data needs to be clear and aligned with industry guidelines, allowing housebuilders to make informed decisions and use our solutions safely.

We're investing in training initiatives to equip the industry with the knowledge needed to safely implement modern technologies, like in-roof solar systems.

We aim to make solar accessible to the roofing workforce with easy-to-install products. Through our training, we want contractors to be confident in delivering work that meets the latest safety protocols and best practices, contributing to safer building outcomes.

A collaborative approach to safer buildings

Central to Wienerberger's approach to the Building Safety Act is our emphasis on

fostering strong collaborative relationships with housebuilders. We've moved beyond the traditional role of a mere product supplier, positioning ourselves as a trusted technical ally. Our commitment lies in working hand-in-hand with our clients, leveraging our expertise to ensure the delivery of buildings that meet the highest safety standards.

This collaborative approach takes many forms, from providing detailed product information and installation guidance to offering hands-on support with compliance and documentation. We aim to be involved in projects from the start, helping housebuilders choose the right roofing solutions and ensuring they have the information needed for effective use.

Our technical sales team offers comprehensive support related to roof tiles, systems, and accessories. This includes roofing advice, product performance consultations, take-off services for product quantity from architectural drawings, specification writing, bespoke project design, and problem-solving assistance.

A culture of accountability

As the construction industry adapts to the significant changes introduced by the Building Safety Act, roofing manufacturers like Wienerberger are rising to the occasion.

By embracing the principle of the "Golden Thread", driving innovation, upskilling the workforce and cultivating stronger partnerships with housebuilders, we're playing a vital role in fostering a safer, more resilient built environment for the future.

The Building Safety Act represents a significant shift in our industry, but it's one that Wienerberger is fully committed to. By working together manufacturers, housebuilders, and all stakeholders in the construction process - we can create a safer, more transparent, and more accountable building industry for everyone.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

For more information on Wienerberger visit

www.rdr.link/dax020

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ROOFING, CLADDING & INSULATION

Tackling the problem of delivering better homes at a faster rate, Donald Matheson, Technical Manager for Roofing and Flooring in SaintGobain Off-Site Solutions explains how off-site constructed roofing products may be the answer.

WORK SMARTER, NOT HARDER

W

ith the new Labour Government promising to build 1.5 million new homes during their first term, the conversation between housebuilders and manufacturers to the building industry is now centred around how best to provide these desperately needed new homes quickly and in volume. But how can that be achieved without compromising on quality?

Donald Matheson, Technical Manager for Roofing and Flooring in Saint-Gobain Off-Site Solutions, says that by adopting off-site constructed roofing systems more widely, progress can be made in delivering higher quality homes.

How do off-site constructed roofing products work?

Simply put, off-site roofing structures are manufactured in specialist factories and then delivered to site ready to be assembled. As an example, when SaintGobain Off-Site Solutions deliver their Roofspace Solutions i-Roof, it is transported to site from the factory as fully insulated panels that then form a room-inroof solution. Similarly, when they deliver

14 September Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

Pasquill Roof Trusses or floor joists, the structural elements are pre-manufactured to the specified design, and can simply be unloaded and installed.

How can off-site roofing deliver better quality?

Off-site manufacturing supports the high levels of precision required within modern construction. Before this method became widespread, the materials required to construct the roof were typically cut-tosize on-site, which takes valuable time during a build programme and potentially reduces the accuracy of the build.

When working with an off-site roofing manufacturer, components are manufactured in a controlled factory environment. Each component of the build is precisely cut to the size stipulated within the drawings, before being assembled into its final form and transported to site ready for installation.

As these elements are manufactured in a factory, strict quality control processes are carried out during each step of production. This reduces the risk of poorly manufactured roofing components, and in turn reduces problems on site for the

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“The UK is in dire need of more affordable

homes, which are desperately required now

more than ever. But what good are more new

homes if their quality is not up to standard?”

housebuilder saving money and, more importantly, time.

Automation is becoming increasingly key in manufacturing processes, further helping to ensure quality is of the highest standard. We have recently invested £4m in the Randek AutoEye Truss System for our Redhill site, which streamlines the truss production process while ensuring the quality of the product remains high.

This automation will come onstream next year, increasing our capacity ready for the challenge of delivering more homes.

Save time by embracing off-site roofing

Off-site construction boasts a host of benefits to housebuilders of all sizes.

Aside from potentially saving money by reducing costs, embracing off-site can also significantly speed up build times.

Once the roofing components are delivered to site, they’re unloaded from the transport and craned into place. This allows for a swift installation carried out by skilled operators, which greatly minimises the time spent on-site. A home needs to be watertight before follow-on trades, such as plasterers, electricians and plumbers can complete their work. By opting for an off-site constructed roof, these trades can move in much faster to speed up the build programme further.

For example, the i-Roof room-in-roof solution offers incredible time savings, with a pair of i-Roofs able to be installed in just one day, ready for internal finishes to be applied.

Enhancing on-site safety

Arguably the most beneficial aspect of offsite constructed roofing is the ability to decrease the risks to health and safety on-site.

It’s an unfortunate, yet welldocumented fact that falls from height remain the leading cause of fatalities in construction. The very nature of constructing a roof means a large portion of build time is spent working at height.

By using off-site constructed roofing

products, the time spent working on the upper levels of buildings is significantly reduced. The pre-manufactured components are lifted in using cranes ready for finishing, and are designed to give safe attachment points and protection to the teams who are completing the installation.

Tackling the skills crisis

It’s well-reported that there’s a growing construction skills shortage in the UK. It’s estimated that over 250,000 additional workers will be required by 2028 in order to keep up with housing demand. With one third of the workforce expected to retire in the next decade, and less young people reportedly interested in pursuing a career in construction, something needs to change.

Off-site manufacturing relies less on traditional on-site labour and more on trained operators working with specialist machinery in factories. Factory efficiency allows for faster production in a controlled, safe environment, and its adoption can help reduce some of the labour pressures on site.

Why consider off-site constructed roofing for future projects?

The UK is in dire need of more affordable homes, which are desperately required now more than ever. But what good are more new homes if their quality is not up to standard?

As part of the Saint-Gobain Off-Site Solutions division, we are proud to support housebuilders across the UK in delivering affordable, high-quality housing where it’s needed most, as we continue our mission to Make the World a Better Home.

By selecting off-site constructed roofing, new homes can be delivered more quickly, safely and in volume without any compromise on quality.

Find out more about how off-site constructed roofing products can benefit future projects, and visit the Pasquill and Roofspace Solutions websites using the rdr links below.

WANT TO KNOW MORE? For more information on Pasquill visit

www.rdr.link/dax021 For more information on Roofspace Solutions visit www.rdr.link/dax022

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RoofinG, CLADDinG & insuLATion

BETTER GLAZE AHEAD

R

oof glazing has become a popular option to make the most of natural daylight within a home and create a sense of well-being for occupants. Rooflights act as a hassle free ‘wish list’ characteristic to set new builds apart from the competition thanks to ease of installation.

Here, Paul Higgins, commercial director at TuffX, provides insight into the type of rooflights available and energy efficiency benefits, as well as providing installation tips and information about the latest, innovative heated solutions.

Paul Higgins, commercial director at TuffX looks at enhancing energy efficiency and wellbeing with roof glazing.

16 September Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

Enhancing natural light

Thanks to a wide array of specifications and solutions, rooflights are suitable for new builds, extensions, loft conversions, and even basement projects and can be relied upon to do exactly what they say on the tin – maximise natural light entering the space from above. This not only reduces the need for artificial lighting during daylight hours, leading to lower energy consumption and bills, but they’re also low maintenance and create an easy connection with the outdoors.

Letting natural daylight flood in significantly impacts the feel of the room, and the rooflight itself can become an architectural feature around which interior fixtures and fittings can be designed around. For example, positioning a kitchen island beneath a rooflight of the same size creates a dramatic centrepiece on both the floorplan and ceiling.

Alternatively, walk-on roof lights, designed to be fitted internally or externally, are ideal for adding a functional and aesthetically appealing glazed feature in basements or roof terraces. Whatever the idea, seek out a supplier, such as Tuffx, which offers bespoke roof window sizes with short lead times to break out of the standard size mould where roof space and budget allow.

Efficient and up to standard

When properly designed and installed, roof windows can improve a property's thermal performance, reducing energy consumption and heating costs.

TuffX’s high-quality roof windows feature double or triple glazing to minimise heat transfer, improve energy efficiency, and protect against temperature extremes. Beyond the glass itself, the frame specification is another key consideration. Insulating frames are specifically designed to deliver peak insulation, working alongside the glazing to keep the property’s indoor environment warm in winter and cool in summer.

Together, the glazing and insulating frame support the reduction of heat loss and limits heat gain.

The thermal performance of the system is also important. With large amounts of glass, the risk of overheating can be a concern, but with the addition of solar control glass coatings and/or shading methods, this can be minimised.

When reviewing the technical data, Tuffx’s double-glazed toughened safety glass roof lights have a centre pane U-value of 1.2, and the triple-glazed option has a Uvalue of 0.7, which is 30% more than roof lights with standard double-glazing and also offers the enhanced benefit of increased sound reduction.

Quick and simple installation

Roof windows require precise installation to ensure proper integration into the roof structure fit, weatherproofing, insulation and, therefore, optimal performance.

However, the installation process is simple with the right tools and a quality product to hand.

All Tuffx Infinity rooflights are as a complete unit, ready for installers to drop in and secure into place hassle-free. In preparation for the installation, a timber upstand needs to be built with a minimum pitch of 5° to allow water to run off the

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“ Rooflights act as a hassle free ‘wish list’ characteristic to set new builds apart from the competition thanks to ease of installation.” rooflight when in place. Then, a thick bead of silicone is applied around on top of the upstand.

Next, the flat, powder-coated aluminium frame can be positioned over the top and sides of the upstand, then pre-drill fixing holes through the timber/aluminium upstand at 100mm from each corner, then at regular intervals. The final step is adding the fixing screws with horseshoe packers and finishing caps around the frame to keep it in place.

Revolutionary heated glass

Opening up even more possibilities with roof glazing, GLOW heated glass infill panels are also now available from TuffX, meaning that the roof glazing will not only illuminate the space throughout the day but also provide a radiant heat source for the space in the colder months, enabling

both natural daylight and thermal comfort to be enhanced simultaneously.

Ideal for high traffic, such as a kitchen or family room/communal area, the thermostatically controlled glass comprises a sealed unit layered with an intelligent, invisible conductive coating that is electrically heated to convert electric power into radiant heat. Heated glass also dramatically reduces condensation, preserving uninterrupted sky views and potentially contributing to a healthier indoor environment. Plus, no ongoing maintenance is required, providing a hassle-free supplementary heating solution.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

For further information about Tuffx’s Infinity range of rooflights, visit www.rdr.link/dax023

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Roofing, ClAdding & insulATion

As the uK’s weather becomes increasingly unreliable, with warmer summers and colder winters, should new build insulation prioritise thermal efficiency or summer comfort? Mark Cooper, uK and ireland sales manager at Actis insulation explains that the two may not be mutually exclusive.

18 September Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

BEAT THE HEAT Mark Cooper UK and Ireland sales manager at Actis Insulation

W

ith the effects of climate change increasingly impacting day to day life, new homes need to be built not only to be as energy efficient as possible, but also to withstand the effects of extreme heat.

On the one hand, Building Regulations legislate that carbon emissions for new builds need to be reduced by around a third over previous levels, while on the other they oblige architects to limit unwanted solar gains and provide a way to remove heat from residential dwellings.

And while some of the latter can be achieved with strategic siting of windows, and even the use of brise soleils, housebuilders and architects can go a long way towards ticking both boxes by specifying the correct form of insulation from the get-go.

The idea of using insulation to deflect, as well as retain heat, is

perhaps counterintuitive. But the canon of products developed by pan-European insulation specialist Actis is designed to meet the requirements of both Part L (conservation of fuel and power) and Part O (overheating) in the same quick, clean and easy to use package!

Reflective power

It’s well documented that homes insulated with traditional products, designed purely to protect the occupants from winter cold, can be insufferably hot in the summer.

But reflective insulations, such as those designed by Actis, have the added bonus of preventing overheating – helping protect the health and comfort of the occupants.

Indeed, its two-in-one Eolis HC reflects 95% of infrared radiation while its wellestablished Hybrid range has also been specifically designed to help buildings stay cool, as well as warm.

Interesting information on both thermal efficiency and the use of insulation in helping keep buildings cool is provided via Actis’ popular RIBA – approved CPDs, which have been immensely popular with builders, specifiers, architects and building control officers over the past few years, with thousands of construction

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professionals finding them invaluable as they wrestle with the complexities of ensuring a thermally efficient new build or conversion.

Tomorrow’s Insulation Solutions for Future Homes Standards and Addressing the Performance Gap with Reflective Insulation include information on thermal modelling psi values to calculate heat loss at junctions, the provision of construction details at both design and as built stage, the replacement of SAP methodology with the Home Energy Model (HEM) to calculate energy efficiency, and key aspects of the consultation on The Future Homes Standard.

Tomorrow’s Insulation Solutions for Future Homes Standards gives guidance on how to meet energy efficiency targets which see new build homes having to reduce carbon emissions by 31% over previous levels, while Addressing the performance gap with reflective insulation looks at how to achieve asbuilt performance.

Real-life application

Architectural designer Stuart Ellis, whose Actis-insulated conversion was featured on George Clarke’s popular Remarkable Renovations TV show, says: “Using Actis products is the thinnest way to achieve the desired U-values – and it’s really easy to fit.

“There’s also less waste than PIR board, which has the added benefit of taking up very little skip space.

“I specify for a lot of listed buildings, which are really cold, so I build a stud wall inside into which to put the insulation. Obviously, I need to ensure the building is correctly ventilated to avoid condensation so external air bricks can be added to ensure the stone can still breathe.

“I believe this is the way forward for listed buildings.”

And Kent builder Alan Downes, who has been using Actis products for the past five years, says of Eolis HC: “It’s an excellent product to install and saves

huge amounts of time. I particularly like the large overlap in the surface of the product, which means the joints are much smoother for final plaster boarding.

It also increases U-values to meet current regulations.

“The thing that makes Eolis especially good is its flexibility and the ease of installation, particularly over pitched roof angles, allowing for a really professional seal of insulation across the roof space.”

U-value benefits

In the winter months the benefit of the Uvalues achieved by using the Hybrid range and Eolis HC come to the fore – by meeting or exceeding required targets depending on the combination used.

They’re also ideal in ensuring homes benefit from the maximum possible living space. Because they’re thinner, less of the wall or roof area is taken up with physical insulation – but with the same, or better, thermal efficiency than a traditional alternative.

Actis products are particularly popular with timber framers who can ensure consistent thermal quality across all their homes – and benefit from a much speedier installation process. The systems typically take between 25 and 50% less time to install than traditional alternatives.

Derek Dawson, MD of one such manufacturer, Scandia-Hus, which has used Actis in all its show homes says: “All products have been designed to eliminate thermal bridging by helping to ensure an airtight envelope. The range can achieve the highest U-value requirements with a minimal thickness.”

“Actis products are

particularly popular with timber framers who can ensure consistent thermal quality across all their homes – and benefit from a much speedier installation process.”

WANT TO KNOW MORE? For more on Actis’ RIBA-approved CPD’s visit www.rdr.link/dax024

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ROOFING, CLADDING & INSULATION

SUPER TROOPER

Rachael Metcalfe, marketing controller at Superglass, explores the company’s latest tools and guides to help specify insulation and explains why customer service is to thank for them

Rachael Metcalfe, marketing controller at Superglass

20 September Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

S

uperglass is one of the UK’s leading glass mineral wool insulation manufacturers. We’ve been producing insulation for more than 30 years from our factory in Stirling, Scotland, but beyond just producing a product, the business is known for its unparalleled level of customer service.

But don’t just take our word for it.

A recent in-depth study conducted by MRA Research revealed impressive findings that demonstrate our dedication to customer service. The study, which surveyed 260 builders’ merchants, installers, and specifiers, found that 81% of our customers feel valued by Superglass, a key indicator of our success in an industry known for its high customer expectations. Three quarters (76%) acknowledged that the products have significantly benefited their business.

The MRA Research study also highlighted that 100% of our customers believe Superglass is either on par with (42%) or superior to (58%) other suppliers.

Our customers trust us not only because of the quality of our products but also due to our consistent service levels. According to the study, 100% of our customers

reported that our overall service has either improved (46%) or remained consistent (54%).

Why does it matter?

The feedback we receive from our customers is invaluable, guiding our efforts to refine and enhance our offerings. Our commitment to sustainability, innovation, and customer service drives us to push the boundaries and continue to deliver for specifiers, and ultimately the end user.

Understanding your needs is one thing but addressing them effectively is another. We believe in equipping housebuilders with the right tools and knowledge to make informed decisions.

This philosophy led to the recent introduction of new web tools and guides that simplify the process of selecting the right insulation products.

The new tools of the trade

One of the standout features is our new UValue calculator, an easy-to-use tool that helps our housebuilders and architects understand the thermal performance of various insulation applications. From warm pitched roofs to suspended timber ground

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“We believe in equipping

housebuilders with the right tools and knowledge to make informed decisions.”

floors, this calculator provides instant, downloadable results.

We have also introduced an advanced online Psi-value calculation service, where you can instantly download our new Psivalue guide and a selection of the most used junction types for our Superwall Cavity Batt range.

In addition, our revamped product selector tool offers a visually engaging and informative way to explore our product range. This tool allows users to view detailed images and information about each product, making it easier than ever to find the right solution for any project. Combined with readily available data sheets and how-to guides, our website has become an invaluable resource for customers and installers.

We have a selection of data sheets which are readily available, which

provides specialised information on all our products. This includes guides, such as our new look Handy Guide, which is filled with product information, and best practice guides for products such as our Cladding Mat and Loft Insulation.

Superglass has always been at the forefront of adopting new technologies and practices to improve our products and services. From investing in state-of-the-art manufacturing processes to developing new digital tools that make it easier for specifiers to do business with us, we are constantly looking for ways to add value.

Superglass remains committed to leading the market not just through the quality of our glass mineral wool insulation but also through our unmatched customer service. Our dedication to understanding and meeting the needs of our customers sets us apart in a competitive market.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

To make the most of Superglass’ new online tools and services, please visit www.rdr.link/dax025

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RooFING, ClADDING & INSUlATIoN

THE GREEN TEAM

Time is ticking on the journey to net zero, but for housebuilders and developers, it’s not a journey they need to make alone, says Colin St John, Commercial Director of Freefoam Building Products, which manufactures and supplies fascias, soffits, and rainwater to housebuilders in the UK and Ireland.

Colin St John, Commercial Director of Freefoam Building Products

22 September Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

R

ead any consumer survey about what buyers are looking for in their next home, and you can be sure that energy efficiency and sustainability are among the top considerations. For housebuilders, developing properties for eco (and bill) conscious homeowners is now a realistic option as many manufacturers and suppliers have upped their game to offer products which save energy or improve a building’s performance, spurred on by the government’s 2025 Future Homes Standard, which focuses on improving heating, hot water systems, and reducing heat waste.

However, emissions generated from the use of a home are only one aspect of its sustainability credentials. The materials and energy used to create each building product and transport it to site can be just as important. An industry-proposed amendment to the Building Regulations, Part Z, just a concept now, has proposed mandatory assessments and reporting of ‘whole life cycle’ carbon, reducing ‘embodied’ emissions from materials and construction.

Emissions generated by suppliers are referred to as Scope 3 greenhouse gas emissions. For housebuilders to build and market homes as truly sustainable, decarbonisation of downstream emissions is essential. This isn’t mandatory, but as Scope 3 emissions account for between 80-95% of a total value chain of an organisation’s footprint, it’s likely to be legislated for in future, just as Scope 1 (direct emissions) and Scope 2 (indirect emissions) reporting is for bigger organisations now.

Suppliers should do the heavy lifting in reviewing and reducing Scope 3 emissions.

They confirm their environmental impact, and housebuilders can then decide to stick with them for the overall sustainability of their business and their homes or switch to a ‘greener’ product/supplier.

In roofline and rainwater, there are some key green credentials housebuilders and architects can look for in a supplier:

ISO 14001

This accreditation is the internationally recognised standard for environmental management systems (EMS). It’s used as a benchmark for many businesses to show how they are reducing their emissions and environmental impact.

EcoVadis rating

The world’s largest sustainability ratings provider, EcoVadis has assessed more than 100,000 companies. Ratings are based on the actions taken to support objectives around the environment, labour, business ethics and sustainable procurement. Housebuilders should ideally be sourcing from Gold and Silver accredited suppliers.

Climate Change Agreements

Climate Change Agreements (CCA) are voluntary agreements between UK industry and the Environment Agency to reduce energy use and carbon dioxide emissions.

Any supplier with a CCA must measure and report energy use and carbon emissions against agreed targets.

Supply Chain Sustainability School membership.

The Supply Chain Sustainability School is a learning platform dedicated to upskilling people within the built environment. It covers the three pillars of sustainability – environmental, social, and economic, with companies awarded attainment levels.

Suppliers who actively engage with the SCSS demonstrate a clear commitment to supporting team members and embedding sustainability into everyday work practices.

Reducing emissions across the building supply chain is everyone’s responsibility.

Only when we work together can we make 100% sustainable homes, down to the last nut and bolt.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

For more information on Freefoam Building Products visit www.rdr.link/dax026

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ROOFING, CLADDING & INSULATION

BBA-APPROVED ROOFLIGHTS

Brett Martin has announced that its Flat Glass Rooflights have secured BBA Approval. A modern alternative to the Roof Lantern, the Flat Glass Rooflight range offers a stylish means of bringing light into contemporary building designs. As well as more than 100 standard sizes, Brett Martin is now offering bespoke sizing and new colour options. All Brett Martin’s rooflights are manufactured using laminated glass.

For more information go to www.rdr.link/dax027

REGULATION COMPLIANCE GUIDE

Ubbink’s two all-new terminals offer outstanding performance with increased mechanical ventilation efficiency. The pitch adjustable Ventus insulated roof duct is designed for both air supply and extraction, on flat or pitched roofs. The Universal Valetis air extraction terminal has been designed to fit perfectly with ventilation systems C and D. It features a low-profile design which overcomes the problem of shadows cast on solar panels – and is suitable for use with slates or tiles.

For more information go to www.rdr.link/dax028

MULTI-LAYER INSULATION BLANKET

Designed for diverse applications in roofs, walls and floors, YBS Insulation’s ThermaQuilt Ultra offers exceptional thermal resistance in a thin, flexible 45mm profile. The multi-layer composition effectively manages all forms of energy transfer, including conduction, convection and radiation. The product achieves R-Values up to 2.61 m²K/W and incorporates a built-in airtight vapour control layer to prevent moisture passage and reduce condensation risk.

For more information go to www.rdr.link/dax029

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KITCHENS & BATHROOMS

Tim Spann, Keller’s UK National Sales Manager discusses what housebuilders should look for in their kitchen partner.

ON THE COOKOUT

T

he UK contract kitchen market is both diverse and crowded. The choice of suppliers is huge so finding the right one to suit a housebuilder’s needs can be challenging.

With no room for trial and error, the pressure is on to choose the right one.

Here we examine the boxes to tick in finding the best kitchen partner. After all, the kitchen is the heart of the home.

Whilst many factors come into play, the five key factors must be:

Experience, expertise and critical mass

Experience of supplying kitchens in the volumes required is absolutely essential.

Many manufacturers aspire to have a presence in the contract channel but, as a developer/builder, you don’t want their growing pains while they wind up to your needs. The quality kitchen segments of the market, largely dominated by continental suppliers, operate on just-intime manufacturing practices. So, process, planning and timing are vital for frictionless solutions and perpetual supply. How many kitchens does the manufacturer produce each week? Do they have spare capacity for your needs?

Are they experienced in producing contract kitchens and do they understand the complex needs and processes required. With the best services possible,

24 September Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

there will be the need for remedial items.

What does that process look like with your potential supplier? What systems do they employ? There is no substitute for track record and relevant experience – a good supplier will have all the answers.

Quality assurance

Poor quality control is extremely costly and the contractor needs to ensure that the supplier is working to the highest standards possible – industry standards and your standards. Pertinent industry quality standards are widely documented; and European and British ones are fundamentally the same. Effective quality management procedures are essential in achieving efficiency and reliability in the supply chain. Length and detail of warranty should be examined to ensure expectations are met.

Range, scope and agility

A broad range of products can be helpful in providing solutions and kitchen zeitgeist. Meeting style expectations can be achieved with different materials and methods; how flexible is the manufacturer? Levels of flexibility can be extremely useful in challenge solving. The agility of the right supplier will help deliver fresh thinking and better outcomes.

Differentiation and variation from the norms can help set your offer apart.

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“There is no

substitute for track record and relevant experience; a good supplier will have all the answers.”

Price and added value

Value for money is more pertinent that price and price alone. If a manufacturer is killing themselves on price, that is not a sustainable model which makes your supply chain fragile. A break in supply chain can be catastrophic. Continuity is absolutely vital. Being more open on budgets can help a developer achieve goals and objectives more easily. Trust and true partnership play a big part in being more open, but open is usually healthier for all concerned. A strong supplier relationship adds value to any proposition, giving confidence for all concerned.

Sustainability

True sustainability, without all the greenwashing that abounds, has to be a factor in choosing a kitchen supplier.

True sustainability will contribute to reducing your overall environmental footprint whilst providing broader advantages that will be financially beneficial, health improving and help protect priceless natural resources.

Sustainability goes far deeper than planting trees. Examine the detail in the steps taken to become more sustainable and reap the rewards the right choices will deliver. Remember good kitchen solutions don’t need to cost the earth.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

For further information on Keller Kitchens visit www.rdr.link/dax030

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KITCHENS & BATHROOMS Credit - John Penny Joinery

Bathroom suite created using MEDITE moisture-resistant MDF

RESISTING THE WET Can MDF panels be used in humid and moistureprone environment?

Becci Goldsmith, Product Manager at MEDITE SMARTPLY answers just that and looks at the benefits using MDF panels in kitchens and bathrooms

Credit - Andrew Fishwick

I

t’s a common misconception amongst consumers and designers alike that medium-density fibreboard (MDF) panels are not suitable for humid and moisture-prone environments. However, this is an outdated idea as modern variations of MDF panels can provide both durability and functionality, even in moisture-prone spaces. Moisture-resistant MDF panels are ideal for spaces such as kitchens and bathrooms – providing the right material for applications that require that extra layer of durability.

Since both kitchen and bathroom furniture is exposed to humidity and water splashes, the materials used within these spaces must be able to withstand spills and steam without deteriorating, ensuring long-lasting durability for their intended purpose. Moisture-resistant MDF panels can withstand moisture derived from spills and humidity without warping or rotting – maintaining both the functionality and visual appeal of furniture and interiors.

This makes them perfect for a wide range of applications not only limited to kitchens and bathrooms but also laundry rooms, boiler rooms and basements.

Key considerations

When choosing a material for spaces that are guaranteed to experience the effects of moisture in some form, there are two key factors to consider – moisture resistance and material sustainability. In most cases, moisture-resistant MDF panels are ideal for use in humid environments such as bathrooms and kitchens. MDF panels have outstanding machining qualities and can be used for furniture as well as windows, skirting boards, and architectural mouldings.

Moisture-resistant MDF panels also offer increased durability in moisture-prone areas when compared with regular fibreboards. This allows for a longer lifespan and reduced maintenance needs.

Furthermore, the sustainability credentials of timber panels cannot be understated. For instance, the EU Green Deal promotes the long-term use of wood-based panels, particularly lowemission products like MDF and OSB, in implementing and supporting sustainable construction practices. Moreover, the use of timber panels in construction can reduce the Whole Life Carbon, in other words the full carbon impact, of the built environment.

The carbon impact of the built environment is made up of both operational carbon from the type of energy or heating systems within the building and the embodied carbon resulting from the manufacture, maintenance and disposal of the

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KITCHENS & BATHROOMS

construction products that comprise the building or structure. In fact, the use of timber can reduce the embodied emissions in a single building by 20 to 60 percent.

When timber is harvested from sustainably managed forests, timber products also act as a carbon store, locking away carbon for the duration of that product’s life, as well as the life of any recycled wood products made from the original product. At the individual building level, carbon storage is approximately 50 percent higher in timber-framed homes than in masonry homes.

MEDITE SMARTPLY creates its MDF panels using wood sourced from sustainably managed forests in Ireland.

These wood-based panels feature consistently smooth surfaces and superior quality – meaning furniture and finishings are also of the highest quality. MEDITE SMARTPLY’s MDF timber panels consist of 40% wood chip and 60% by-product.

When choosing a material for kitchen and bathroom applications, users should always take these aspects into consideration, as the final product’s appearance is as crucial as its moisture resistance and durability for many.

Another important consideration when choosing a moisture-resistant material is compliance with Building Regulations that govern bathroom and kitchen construction. Many building codes mandate the use of moisture-resistant boards in specific locations within a building, particularly in areas prone to moisture. Therefore, specifiers should view MDF panels as the optimal choice to meet both durability and aesthetic needs while adhering to these regulations.

For example, MEDITE MR LITE is a lightweight, moisture-resistant MDF panel designed for use in humid conditions in accordance with L-MDF.H as defined in EN 622-5. This makes it ideal for kitchen and bathroom furniture, skirting boards, and general interior joinery. It serves as a substitute for softwood in non-stressed applications and can be used in applications where light routing is adequate.

28 September Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

Another option for kitchen and bathroom applications is MEDITE MR PLUS, which provides joiners and fitters with efficient, moisture-resistant, high-quality panels. Designed for humid conditions in accordance with MDF.H as defined in EN 622-5, it is ideal for kitchen and bathroom furniture, general furniture, and general interior joinery. Primed on both surfaces with an opaque UV-cured coating system, it provides a matt low gloss topcoat that is the perfect smooth base for further application of water or solvent-borne paint products by brush, roller or spraying equipment. This enables savings and reductions in the finished coating systems while maintaining superior end-product quality.

MEDITE OPTIMA is also perfect for kitchen and bathroom furniture due to its extra smooth finish, which is ideal for applications where users need added density, enhanced machinability and higher surface quality than is found in standard moisture resistant panels.

MEDITE OPTIMA acts as a substitute for softwoods and hardwoods and as a panel product in non-stressed applications. Designed with increased machinability and smoother surface quality, it can also be used for architectural mouldings, window boards, flooring and general interior joinery where a high-quality moisture resistant board is required.

Overall, moisture-resistant MDF panels are the ideal choice for kitchen and bathroom applications alike. With their ability to withstand both moisture and water splashes, without warping or rotting, they are the clear choice for users looking to achieve maximum durability, whilst still being mindful of the sustainability credentials of their chosen material.

Credit - Richard Baker Furniture

“When timber is

Credit - Richard Baker Furniture

harvested from sustainably managed forests, timber products also act as a carbon store, locking away carbon for the duration of that product’s life, as well as the life of any recycled wood products made from the original product. At the individual building level, carbon storage is approximately 50 percent higher in timber-framed homes than in masonry homes.”

WANT TO KNOW MORE? For more information on MEDITE SMARTPLY visit www.rdr.link/dax031

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Kitchens & BathrooMs

MaxiMuM efficiency I Paul stolworthy – häfele’s Business Development Manager for functional spaces, inclusive Living & office furniture looks at the unlocked potential of efficient kitchen design and fit out for housebuilding.

n a highly competitive industry, housebuilders and architects who can demonstrate they go the extra mile have the potential to reap a greater market share. Achieving this comes down to several factors: creating spaces which easily adapt to changing consumer habits, or changes in lifestyle; providing unique points of difference that meet homeowners’ individual preferences, and delivering such a high-quality standard of design and build that the buyer knows their investment has been worthwhile.

To maintain their advantage, housebuilders and architects should aim to do this in the most efficient of ways. As such, those specifying new products should use distributors and manufacturers who help bring great designs to life with products and services that save both time and money.

This is particularly important when it comes to kitchens – the heart of the home and which, according to new research, is the space most likely to clinch potential buyers.

What house hunters want

Findings shared in the new Homes for Living report from Häfele, the UK’s leading manufacturer and supplier of fixtures and fittings, reveal that around a fifth (21%) of homeowners are planning to move house in the next year, and almost half (49%) are willing to pay more for a new home if it has a modern and well-equipped kitchen.

30 September Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

In particular, house hunters are looking for smart storage (26%), clever layouts (26%) and a high quality of build (19%) – all of which can become a reality with a mixture of innovative products, valueadded services and tools which make life easier for the installer when it comes to fitting, but also achieve a fantastic finish for the homeowner to enjoy.

Functionality first

As part of Häfele’s research, when asked what matters most to them in their kitchens, homeowners prioritised being able to manage waste and minimise clutter (46%) as well as getting the best possible functionality from the space (37%) – both of which can be resolved with clever internal wirework solutions added to cabinetry.

Knowing this about potential buyers, developers should begin considering the interior features and storage solutions of kitchen designs as well as the external finish – potentially offering wirework solutions as an upsell opportunity to increase revenue – while considering systems which are easy for the installer to fit, too.

For example, swing-out corner storage systems – such as the Cornerstone Maxx from Vauth Sagel – transforms awkward spaces into useable storage solutions, with large-area shelving which extends from the cabinet. Integrated bins have become very popular, as they enable

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“Ensuring you’re partnering with businesses that provide that whole package will mean you’re creating homes that buyers can be proud of, leaving a lasting impression well beyond moving day.”

people to keep waste solutions out of sight and out of mind, and manufacturers like Hailo are developing options in a variety of weights and sizes to suit all kitchen designs and layouts.

Customised creations

Being able to add customised solutions and bespoke furniture and installations to kitchens can offer developers a true point of difference when it comes to making sales. Earlier this year, Häfele launched Service+ Customised to help the industry achieve just that – providing a solution to make it as simple as possible to take on additional work while creating bespoke installations that meet their customers’ unique tastes.

For example, Häfele’s Bespoke Timber Drawers – available through Service+ Customised – have fully dovetailed joints, are available in a choice of timbers and have a suite of complementary accessories like cutlery inserts and knife blocks. They can be tailored against a long list of personalisation options, including a choice of shaped sides, flat or stepped top, and handle cut outs. And for the ultimate in personalised design, the drawers can be router or laser engraved to feature a customer’s choice of text.

Meanwhile, Häfele’s Customised Worktop Service helps achieve precise, customisable designs, while also saving time during the installation process.

Suited to kitchen, bathroom or utility room projects, users simply select their choice of solid surface and compact laminate worktops from Häfele’s Maia, Minerva, Mariz or Metis ranges, and the products will be manufactured to specification using high-quality craftsmanship.

Advanced cutting tools and technologies ensure precision and accuracy for island joins, radius corners and sink cut-outs, eliminating gaps or unevenness when fitted. Both stain and heat-resistant, the worksurfaces are available in a variety of colourways and finishes.

Service+ Customised customers can also order a combination of readyconfigured products and components packaged to their needs. Both bespoke

worktops and timber drawers can be instantly quoted for and ordered online, with no minimum order quantity, then delivered straight to site.

Time saving tools

To further support on-site fitters, developers and specifiers can point them in the direction of time-saving tools that will transform the way they work every day.

For example, Axilo™, Häfele’s clever plinth adjusting and fitting system makes cabinetry alignment easier, quicker and more convenient. Ergonomically designed, it reduces the risk of back-related injuries, and helpfully can cut kitchen unit assembly times by almost half, improving on-the-job efficiency and enabling installers to get through more work in less time.

Meanwhile, Häfele’s brand new universal connector, the UC 16/64, is a polycarbonate connection device which mixes snap-in studs and clips with a latching nose and screw holes to achieve multiple applications with just one device.

Suitable for corner, surface and upright connections, as well as offset, angled and double joints, the UC 16/64 also acts as an assembly aid, cable guide, spacer and floor guide, meaning installers can consolidate their selection of fittings and tools for these tasks down to just one.

New build design is no longer about creating identical models that house hunters must mould themselves to; instead, developers are looking to create high specification homes that can be personalised and reflect each buyer’s individual personality. Now, thanks to distributors like Häfele, who prioritise service just as much as product, it’s more than possible to achieve that without adding expense, time or stress when it comes to installation. Ensuring you’re partnering with businesses that provide that whole package will mean you’re creating homes that buyers can be proud of, leaving a lasting impression well beyond moving day.

“New build design is no longer about creating identical models that house hunters must mould themselves to; instead, developers are looking to create high specification homes that can be personalised and reflect each buyer’s individual personality.”

WANT TO KNOW MORE? For more information visit

www.rdr.link/dax032

Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer September

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KITCHENS & BATHROOMS

With kitchens often being one of the make-or-break rooms when it comes to selling a newly built property, housebuilders are best served looking at new ways to really make “the heart of the home” stand out. With tangible water, cost, energy, time and space saving benefits, a boiling water tap may be one of the ways to do it.

PHPD talks to Quooker, the original boiling water tap brand founded in 1970, to find out more.

“There’s definitely a pressure on housebuilders to use products and materials that do not cost the earth”

32 September Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

TAPPING INTO YOUR AUDIENCE

W

ith increasingly stringent sustainability and environmental regulations for UK newbuilds, what with stricter energy performance standards for construction and ambitious net zero carbon emission targets, there’s definitely a pressure on housebuilders to use products and materials that do not cost the earth. Add to that the high price of energy bills and a more eco-conscious general public, and the decision to incorporate more energy efficient and long-lasting appliances into a build becomes a no-brainer. Buying a house is a big decision to make and so every minute detail really does matter.

Something as small as a kitchen appliance really might be the make or break.

A sustainable alternative

Take kettles, for example, almost every household is going to use one for their teas and coffees, and if they do, they’ll be using it regularly throughout the day, every day.

Quooker explains how you can capitalise on this and why one of its taps will really help a house stand out from the crowd: Designed to be incredibly energy efficient, due to state-of-the-art patented high-vacuum insulated tank technology

that prevents heat from escaping, all Quooker taps use minimal energy to keep the water in the tank at 110°C. Unlike an energy-guzzling kettle that uses 2,200 watts to boil 1.7 litres of water, a Quooker only uses 10 watts per day to keep water ready to use. Stored as steam, water only starts to boil when the tap is turned on and the temperature of the outflowing water drops to 100°C. This low standby power consumption has resulted in the company having the best energy rating in Europe (A-rating).

Constantly evolving its technology, Quooker will be launching its new COMBI+ kitchen boiler. A fusion of efficiency and convenience, saving up to 4,200 litres of water per year; maximising every drop for optimal use and significantly reducing wastage. Unique in offering cold, hot, boiling and variable warm water as standard, with the addition of a Quooker CUBE additional benefits of chilled and sparkling water can be enjoyed.

Changing habits

Over the past couple of years, there has been a significant change in how people are drinking their water. Filtered water has become increasingly important, especially

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“All Quooker taps

boast sophisticated, child-safe handle systems that will never automatically dispense boiling water.” in areas of hard water, so much so that around 70% of all Quooker taps purchased are now purchased alongside a Cold-Water Filter or CUBE accessory.

These products fit onto any existing Quooker model and help refine the quality of water, improving the taste and odour of water from the tap. These filters can process around 6,000 litres before needing to be replaced, providing a tangible solution to having to buy filtered water in a bottle. Dispensing precisely the amount of water needed at any given moment, CUBE ensures responsible and more sustainable consumption.

As Quooker taps are now KIWA certified, quality comes as standard across the range.

The safer choice

A common misconception is that boiling water straight from a tap cannot be safe, Quooker has homeowners covered.

All Quooker taps boast sophisticated, child-safe handle systems that will never automatically dispense boiling water. With a patented double push and twist mechanism, boiling water is safely dispensed following a quick and deliberate motion. While in use, the user

is alerted with the glow of a red-light ring around the handle base. For the Flex range, which boasts a flexible pull-out hose, a cut-off lock prevention system is in place to ensure boiling water cannot be used when the hose is out.

Quooker taps dispense boiling water as an aerated flow rather than a solid jet of water, meaning water feels hot but not scalding to touch, should any accidental contact occur. As the tap is properly fitted into your worksurface, away from children, unlike a kettle, there is no risk of tipping over and dangerously scalding the user. The double-insulated casing also prevents heat from escaping, and ensures the tap is not hot to touch when in use, unlike a kettle which presents a far higher burn risk.

These safety functions offer additional user reassurance and makes the entire Quooker range the safest on the market.

The most used kitchen appliance

Housebuilders looking to add considerable value to their projects should look to Quooker. Boiling water taps boasting premium features and unique water modes such as sparkling, chilled and filtered water are more favourable to prospective buyers, helping differentiate and elevate their properties.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

To view the full Quooker range or find out more about the company, visit www.rdr.link/dax033

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KITCHENS & BATHROOMS

DRESS TO R IMPRESS

Luxury new build projects such as Dryden Court, developed by Runnymede Homes, must deliver outstanding bathroom aesthetics and best-in-class components to meet buyer expectations. In collaboration with Hansgrohe, the boutique development has also utilised high-specification furniture and innovating ceramic solutions to create memorable bathroom havens of style and distinction. Read on to find out more...

34 September Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

unnymede Homes’ Dryden Court development in Guildford, Surrey encompasses four inspiring townhouses, in four- and fivebedroom configurations. The development has been thoughtfully designed with high quality fittings and finishes throughout, ideal for buyers who are looking for homes that are ready for them to move in to – including families, those looking to downsize or move out of London, and professional couples.

The townhouse’s have up to 6 bathrooms, comprising 1-2 cloakrooms as well as stylish and bespoke ensuites, large family bathrooms, and guest bathrooms to ensure that showering and bathing experiences underpin a sense of luxury and comfort.

Laurence Manning, Operations Director at Runnymede Homes, says that discerning buyers have high expectations, which must be matched in all aspects of the design Laurence Manning and build.

He said: “Our clients are expecting high quality finishes, guaranteed component performance and visual impact that will impress them and their guests. These are the founding design pillars for all the bathroom specification decisions made for this striking residential project.”

These client priorities are also why Runnymede chose to specify a range of Hansgrohe products – from its premium brands hansgrohe and AXOR – for the bathrooms. This includes the high-quality showers and brassware both brands are known for, as well as Hansgrohe’s recently launched bathroom furniture and ceramics offering – incorporating stylish vanity units, basins, and toilets.

Each of the bathrooms within the four properties have distinctive designs, including the concealed shower solutions that underpin Runnymede’s exacting design and finish standards when it comes to looks and performance.

Other specification choices at Dryden Court also support design ambitions to generate a cohesive bathroom space vision.

Laurence continues: “We fully appreciate the well-deserved reputation Hansgrohe has for quality and design excellence.

Recognition of the brand is high, and it made sense to extend our specification to include integrated and complementary furniture and ceramics for Dryden Court.”

Single supply for design-led bathroom furniture and ceramics

Making a decision to expand into ceramics and furniture last year, Hansgrohe launched its full suite of solutions at the ISH trade fair in Germany in 2023.

Emma Freeman, Brand and Communications Manager for Hansgrohe UK says: “For some developers, specifying relatively new products Emma Freeman for a high-end development might be seen as a risk.

However, Runnymede Homes recognised instantly that when we decided to extend our product range to include furniture, ceramics, and mirrors, we took the same rigorous approach to R&D that we apply to our existing offering of basin mixers, shower systems, drains and accessories, to ensure we provided customers with the same robustness and high-quality finishes.”

Laurence adds: “Having chosen showers and taps from both Hansgrohe brands – hansgrohe and AXOR – previously, our

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specification team had no hesitation in extending the design relationship into other areas such as bathroom furniture and accompanying ceramics.

“I personally visited the Hansgrohe Water Studio in London, to take a close look at their range, and was impressed with vanity units and basins on display in terms of overall finish, as well as the extensive range of sizes and customisation options on offer.

“I understand that they are primarily known for their high-end showering and brassware solutions, and we have chosen the AXOR One taps throughout the development, but the hansgrohe furniture and ceramic offering really ticked the boxes for both form and function, perfectly complementing the overall look and feel of Dryden Court that we wanted to achieve.”

Dryden Court’s townhouses have adopted a range of hansgrohe furniture and ceramic solutions across the various bathroom layouts, including specification from the brand’s stunning Xevolos and Xelu ranges.

Emma comments: “A key feature of the Xevolos furniture range is interchangeable inlays on the front-facing panels, where customers can choose from various colour and material options to suit their desired bathroom aesthetic. The Xelu Q Standard Vanity and Console ranges also provide customers with four options for surface finishes.”

At Dryden Court, neutral shades dominate the colour way choice throughout the bathrooms with the Xelu Q 580 vanity unit in natural oak with chrome handles and the Xevolos E 580 vanity unit in sand matt beige, creating ample storage, clutter-free and a co-ordinated bathroom ambience demanded by clients.

Laurence continues: “We pay as much attention to furniture and ceramics when creating exceptional bathroom spaces as we do when considering the showering solutions to be included in our developments. Storage solutions ensure that the space is clutter free and this is central to delivering clean visuals and a ‘wow’ factor for our clients.”

Across the development, the furniture solutions have also been complemented by the ceramic choices. Xelu Q, Xevolos E, and Xuniva each offer distinctive ceramic washbasins, delivering a range of shapes and innovative design touches to

underscore the individual character of the townhouses. Alongside the considered furniture, the washbasins form a harmonious unit both visually and functionally.

Laurence comments: “We love the way every hansgrohe item matches perfectly.

Our colour scheme choices have the buyer in mind, and we feel the neutral shade options made at Dryden Court provides a perfect balance of distinction and excitement.”

In addition to basin ceramics, Runnymede also opted to include hansgrohe’s EluPura original toilets to fit seamlessly into the broad design overview. The wall hung toilet is a sustainable choice as well, using an optimised internal geometry for efficient flushing with only 4.5 litres per flush with a suitable flush tank. This compares to an average toilet flush of six litres. Perfectly suiting the washbasin, furniture and accessory choices, the EluPura follows the hansgrohe design DNA to deliver a complete and holistic bathroom look.

Due to be completed later this year, Dryden Court is the epitome of luxury townhouse living for discerning buyers. A combination of timeless aesthetics, unrivalled component functionality and long-term performance assurance, means all four of the properties deliver a best-inclass bathroom experience.

As Laurence Manning concludes: “Hansgrohe has been the perfect partner for the luxury Dryden Court development.

We set standards of excellence for our new builds and every aspect has to be perfect to meet the expectations of our clients.

“I am delighted to say that the memorable bathrooms we have created with Hansgrohe’s assistance have exceeded these expectations in an impressive and design-led manner. Every detail, from showers and taps to the furniture and ceramics, blend seamlessly, creating individual, relaxing and high performing bathroom havens for our valued clients.”

WANT TO KNOW MORE? For more information on Hansgrohe visit

www.rdr.link/dax034

Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer September

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KITCHENS & BATHROOMS

GET YOUR FEET WET Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer (PHPD): Why specify a wetroom?

Shaun Hunt, Technical and Trade Marketing Manager, Impey

Wetrooms were originally designed with accessibility in mind. Over the years the wetroom concept has taken a leap into mainstream popularity and installations in residential properties have become more desirable. So, what do housebuilders and architects need to know about level access shower spaces? We asked Shaun Hunt from leading UK wetroom manufacturer Impey to tell us more…

36 September Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

Shaun Hunt (SH): New build and newly developed properties are designed with today’s living standards in mind. A modern wetroom is the ultimate example of a practical, customisable showering space.

The combination of a waterproofed open showering area with level access floor and built in drainage has catapulted wetrooms into mainstream popularity; ideal for a variety of design requirements and budgets.

Wetrooms are versatile showering solutions which can fit virtually any size or space, and are compatible with almost any kind of bathroom layout.

Other popular reasons for wetroom specification include ease of cleaning, simple maintenance requirements and adaptability for accessible showering suitable for disabled or elderly people.

PHPD: Will a wetroom help to sell a property?

SH: An attractive, functional wetroom can add up to 5% to the value of a property, and increase desirability to a larger audience of potential buyers.

AMA Research’s wetroom market report 2023-2027 said: “In recent years the UK market for wetroom products has been growing at a steady pace, with product design improvements and lifestyle changes influencing market demand.

Private housebuilders are increasingly adding wetrooms to their homes to add value. Social housing providers are specifying wetrooms as an inclusive and durable choice. Installations in existing properties have seen excellent growth as people identify the wetroom as a modern and accessible design feature in their home. In the commercial sector, wetrooms represent a practical method of providing easy access and space enhancing showering facilities.”

Raising accessibility standards across the housing market ensures future proofing and prevents further time, effort and budget on adaptations at a later date.

PHPD: What should housebuilders and architects know about wetroom specification?

SH: Continuing innovation in the UK wetroom market means wetrooms can be specified in a variety of locations including ground floors, upper floors, basements, attics and lofts.

A wetroom can be installed on both timber and solid concrete floors with equally successful results. The basis of an effective wetroom installation is the floor former (tray or dec), which creates an ideal gradient for water drainage. ensuring that waste water flows directly towards the drain.

Regardless of location or room size, a wetroom floor former must have a 1:40 gradient, which equates to a 25mm drop

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for every metre of pipework. The gradient is created either by selecting a prefabricated floor former with in-built drainage or by using a screed template system. Prefabricated floor formers come in a large range of sizes and some can be trimmed to fit the desired space.

A floor former is a popular and convenient option which acts as a direct replacement for floorboards. Measuring 22mm deep it sits flush with the existing floor. Once installed it becomes part of the fabric of the property’s construction, hidden from view underneath waterproofing and tiles or vinyl floor.

Impey’s award-winning Aqua-Dec EasyFit floor former, has a rotating drainplate, for quick and simple avoidance of underfloor obstructions like joists or pipework; offering time and money savings. Impey’s Aqua-Dec Linear floor formers are specified to create contemporary wetroom designs with a variety of falls and styles available.

On a concrete floor, choose a tailored, click-together matrix template like

Impey’s Aqua-Grade, which can be configured to fit the available shower area. The matrix is constructed, then filled with concrete screed, which sets, ensuring an optimum drainage gradient for the wetroom floor.

PHPD: Do wetrooms leak?

SH: No, not when installed properly.

Starting with pipework, as a brand we insist that all connections are solvent welded, because rubber seals on compression fittings can degrade over time, leading to leaks.

Next, the creation of a watertight barrier for the wetroom guarantees peace of mind. We recommend that the wetroom space, (inc floors and walls) is waterproofed to safeguard the entire showering area. There are many waterproofing solutions on the market including Impey’s WaterGuard, a 1mm thick, flexible tanking membrane, provided on a roll for easy application.

Specifying a sheet membrane significantly reduces install time due to no curing requirement. Other important properties include a butyl rubber coated selfadhesive layer with a polypropylene surface as this is ideal for tile adhesive. And a highly elastic membrane with excellent 10mm decoupling properties, eliminates the need for a separate de-coupler.

Lastly, opt for waterproofing products which offer a ‘Lifetime Watertight Guarantee,’ which will last for the lifespan of the tiles chosen, ensuring longevity and high quality.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

For more information about specification of wetrooms or wet areas, download the Impey wetroom design and specification brochure at www.rdr.link/dax035

Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer September

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Kitchens & Bathrooms

PhPD chats to schlütersystems about all things bathrooms. read on to find out more about the company itself and how to fit bathrooms as efficiently as possible and make them really stand out.

aLL sYstems Go

P

rofessional Housebuilder and Property Developer (PHPD): Can you tell us about Schlüter-Systems and what the company is known for?

Schlüter-Systems: Schlüter-Systems stands at the forefront of the tile installation industry, renowned for its innovative products and solutions. Boasting a workforce of over 2,300 dedicated professionals and operating from seven strategic locations across Europe and North America, the company has set the standard in setting benchmarks for tile and stone installation for more than 55 years.

Schlüter’s range of products serve a multitude of purposes, from protecting to enhancing tile and stone applications. Our comprehensive range features solutions for waterproofing, underfloor heating, tile trims, storage, drainage, and much more, ensuring all of the customer’s needs are met.

PHPD: How could housebuilders and architects benefit from using Schlüter’s waterproofing solutions?

Schlüter-Systems: As a leader in waterproofing solutions, Schlüter offers numerous benefits to housebuilders who choose our products. Safeguarding your homes with reliable waterproofing is our top priority, which is why our products are engineered to meet the highest standards and comply with the forthcoming NHBC Technical Guidelines 9.2/06. These guidelines prohibit the use of magnesium oxide boards and deems gypsum plasterboard/plaster unsuitable for bathrooms equipped with power showers.

It concludes by stating that all residential constructions in the UK that are seeking an NHBC warranty must adhere to these guidelines. By selecting Schlüter’s portfolio of solutions, housebuilders will be assured compliance with these essential standards.

PHPD: How can housebuilders and architects ensure their bathrooms really stand out?

38 September Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

Schlüter-Systems: Choosing an eyecatching lighting system is a great way to ensure bathrooms stand out. Our LED lighting technology range, LIPROTEC, is a fantastic choice. With SchlüterLIPROTEC, creating unique lighting concepts is a very straightforward process. Choose our EASY series for a simple, plug-and-play setup, or opt for the PRO series for advanced installations, while our CONTROL section and LIPROTEC-PLAN provides all the information you need for professional accent lighting design.

PHPD: How can on-site efficiency be increased when it comes to bathrooms?

Schlüter-Systems: Choosing the correct product at the beginning of a project is paramount to a smooth and hassle-free installation. There are innovative products out there which can help with this, such as our SCHLÜTER DITRA-HEAT range, which has an excellent peel & stick option. This easy to use peel & stick variant, requires no adhesive, can be laid down in minutes and even stick to green P5 chipboard, which provides fantastic adhesion for many years.

PHPD: What sort of support does Schlüter offer to its customers?

Schlüter-Systems: We have an outstanding customer service team dedicated to supporting you every step of the way, ensuring you receive the assistance you need even after our products have been installed. Our expert technical team is always available to provide advice and solutions for any challenges or questions that may arise.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

For more information on Schlüter-Systems visit www.rdr.link/dax036

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KITCHENS & BATHROOMS BOILING TAP FINISHES

Quooker, the original 100-degree boiling water tap brand, announces the addition of two new finishes to its award-winning Front range, natural copper and gunmetal. Delivering hot, cold and boiling water, Front has a sleek and minimal tubular aesthetic, bringing contemporary flair to any kitchen. It can be paired with CUBE to deliver chilled and sparkling water.

For more information go to www.rdr.link/dax037

BATHROOM VANITY UNITS

Crosswater has introduced two new vanity units, Tambour and Avenue, to its bathroom collection. Tambour combines a waterresistant, fluted backboard with smooth, rounded features and comprises a spacious wall-hung drawer unit and floor-standing door-front unit. Avenue fuses minimal, timeless design and ample storage to deliver a practical furniture solution to keep countertops clutter free. This wall-hung unit is available with optional feet and is finished with a modern, tall ceramic basin.

MIX & MATCH BATHROOM FITTINGS

Leading bathroom manufacturer, Geberit is launching a new concept which allows users to combine basins and furniture across its Aspire range allowing for more personalised bathrooms. Geberit's Aspire collection combines its premium GeberitONE, iCon, and Acanto ranges.

The Aspire collection delivers premium bathroom solutions to create a completely bespoke wash space.

For more information go to www.rdr.link/dax041

For more information go to www.rdr.link/dax038

EASY-FIT SHOWER DOOR

Flair Showers has launched a new collection of shower doors, Verve PRO, engineered to ensure easy installation. The collection of 1,900mm high shower doors is constructed with 6mm thick Clearvue glass that benefit from a fresh, contemporary look and feel. The new range consists of corner entry structures and quadrants in addition to sliding, bi-fold and pivot doors, which are available in Black or Silver finishes.

For more information go to www.rdr.link/dax039

PULL-OUT SPRAY TAP

A new tap has been added to Franke’s popular Krios tap range. The Pull-Out Spray model boasts a classic swan neck design and twin lever tap. The pull-out spray offers flexibility and easy of use, ideal for washing large pots, rinsing vegetables and cleaning the sink area. The tap is backed by a five-year warranty on working parts and a one-year warranty on the finish.

For more information go to www.rdr.link/dax040

40 September Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer

HAND-CRAFTED BATHROOM FURNITURE

Kaldewei has launched a new collection of hand-crafted bathroom furniture and accessories. The furniture is made from solid European oak and features a stool and bench, a footboard, a towel rail and a bathtub bridge.

For more information go to www.rdr.link/dax042

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QUARTZ KITCHEN TOPS

The Athena Collection from quartz surface specialist, Königstone, replicates some of the most exclusive natural stones. The collection features distinctive designs and has been created using the latest penetrative print technology that produces intricate high-definition details paired delicately subtle undertones. All designs have a classical soft leather finish to replicate the look and unmistakable feel of natural stone.

For more information go to www.rdr.link/dax043

BACKLIT MIRRORS BATHROOM FITTINGS

RAK Ceramics has launched its latest collection of bathroom mirrors; RAKTeardrop and RAK-Scorpio. These new additions combine sleek design with cutting-edge lighting technology. The RAK-Teardrop mirror is available in two sizes: 500 x 700 x 30cm and 600 x 840 x 30cm. The RAK-Scorpio mirror is available in two sizes: 600 x 600 x 30cm and 1,000 x 1,000 x 30cm.

For more information go to www.rdr.link/dax047

CONTEMPORARY KITCHEN SURFACE

CRL Stone has unveiled Messina Gold, a sophisticated addition designed to enhance classic and contemporary interiors. Messina Gold brings a clean and airy feel to spaces. Inspired by marble, this new offering combines elegance with the durability of CRL Quartz, ensuring it stands the test of time in modern homes. Perfect for both worktops and splashbacks, CRL Quartz is scratch, heat, and stain resistant and requires minimal maintenance.

For more information go to www.rdr.link/dax044

BATHROOM GYM

Scavolini have combined the bathroom with a home gym to create a wellness facility for the home. The heart of the project is reinterpreted gymnastics wall bars, which can be used as a base for equipment, including benches and training bands and to secure bathroom accessories, including lights and mirrors. The modular plywood furnishing is available in two finishes, Blond light wood and Core dark wood.

For more information go to www.rdr.link/dax045

BRASSWARE TAPS

Thomas Crapper specialises in bathroom taps alongside trademark cisterns. The Fontley range comprises five products in four finishes – polished brass, chrome, nickel and brushed brass. The Marmor range includes a shower valve, or a basin tap, each featuring a marble handle in black or white. Brushed brass, polished brass, chrome or nickel body can be chosen. The Spitfire three-hole basin mixer tap is available in chrome, nickel and polished brass and offered in two options – short or standard.

CLIMATE FRIENDLY KITCHEN FITTINGS

Award winning designer and leading manufacturer of climate friendly kitchen furniture, Rotpunkt has launched two new door fronts: Fenix Beige Arizona and Italian Walnut. The German manufacturer has also launched an Illuminated Wall Solution, designed with smart LED integrated lighting. Controlled remotely or by using a digital assistant like Alexa or Siri, each wall solution includes three shelving options.

For more information go to www.rdr.link/dax048

For more information go to www.rdr.link/dax046

Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer September

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GENERAL BUILDING

STAIN BLOCK PAINT

Dulux Trade Stain Block Matt has recently been reformulated to offer improved opacity, whiteness and a matter finish compared to the previous formulation. The 2-in-1 water-based primer and topcoat can effectively treat stains as well as prevent spreading. It also helps to seal and bind friable, dry and powdery surfaces such as plaster, brick and distemper.

The product is now more sustainable too, and is now 99.9% VOC (volatile organic compund) free.

For more information visit www.rdr.link/dax049

BONDED TIMBER PANELS

SterlingOSB Zero is a versatile high performance engineered wood panel.

West Fraser’s UK-manufactured OSB has zero-added formaldehyde and is stronger than ply, with no knots, voids or risk of delamination. OSB is formed of flakes or strands of timber bonded in crossdirectional layers that are pressed together mechanically and can be used for roofing, flooring and hoarding to timber frame construction.

MASONRY SUPPORT SYSTEM

IG Masonry Support has been evaluated

by The Passive House Institute and has been certified as a passive house component that works with regard to the tested parameters. This third-party certification provides confidence and reassurance for architects and specifiers to use this system while meeting one of the most rigorous standards.

For more information visit www.rdr.link/dax051

For more information visit www.rdr.link/dax050

ADVERTISEMENT INDEX Domus Ventilation ....................................................................................page 25

Simpson Strong-Tie ..................................................................................page 23

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Freefoam Building Products ....................................................................page 17

Superglass Insulation Ltd ..........................................................................page 9

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Garador Ltd ................................................................................................page 33

TOOLFAIR ......................................................................................................page 4

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Marley Ltd ..................................................................................inside front cover

TuffX Processed Glass Ltd ................................................outside back cover

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Quooker UK Ltd ........................................................................................page 26

Ubbink UK Ltd ............................................................................................page 21

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Rocket Door Frames ..................................................................................page 11

www.phpdonline.co.uk ............................................................................page 39

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Designs by Edward Thomas Interiors to illustrate how interior design can be tailored for different demographics.

THE INSIDE VIEW: Typically, the most common goal for any show home is to attract, and appeal to, a widespread clientele. But what about developments where there is a very specific demographic? How should housebuilders brief interior design for these? Steve Hird, director at new home interior design specialists, Edward Thomas Interiors offers his insight…

“Housebuilders

shouldn’t be afraid to commission show homes that directly target a specific audience

”

P

LAST WORD

DEMOGRAPHIC SPECIFIC DESIGN hysical show homes are one of a how a house has space for family members “ housebuilder’s to enjoy individual hobbies as well as come most important marketing tools; a successful show home will add value and help house hunters become more invested in a potential move. But housebuilders shouldn’t be afraid to commission show homes that directly target a specific audience. It shows engagement, understanding and increases the likely sales rate.

“So where to start?

together to relax or entertain. So, for example, on a three-storey house, the top floor might be styled as a teenager’s hideaway with bedroom and den, or an elegant retreat to pamper parents! In addition, if there are local landmarks or sports clubs, subtly referencing these throughout the design can help strengthen the connection with location.

“One of the common pitfalls for this demographic is the assumption they are exclusively young. The average age1 of a UK first-time buyer is currently 33, so at this point could have a young family, an established career, a long-term relationship, some or none of these. Therefore, it’s advisable any show home should demonstrate how the house appeals to all aspiring homeowners regardless of age, relationship status or working lifestyle.

“One of our most successful designs for this demographic was a three-bedroom show home we styled as ‘just moved in’.

Remembering that most first-time buyers will have a limited budget, we designed rooms to be deliberately unfurnished. This included modest amounts of furniture alongside artwork and accessories sourced from typical points of call for first-time buyers such as high street stores or online retailers. This design was so successful that 75% of this house type was sold on the initial release, including one to the development’s sales manager!

“On developments with exclusively larger house types, or those with only a limited number of homes, the key is bringing the detail to life. This can range from something as simple as including a 10seater dining table to emphasise space, or more intricate such as painting all door and window surrounds, skirting boards and balustrades to elevate a luxury look.

“Commissioning bespoke, British-made pieces of furniture or joinery is highly effective too. Not forgetting to also reflect any neighbourhood characteristics. On a collection of townhouses we designed in London’s Muswell Hill, we paid homage to the suburb’s tree-lined streets with a Matisse-inspired jungle print feature wall in one of the bedrooms.

First Time Buyers

Sidesteppers

“For sidesteppers, perhaps those with older teenagers or even empty nesters, it’s important to consider what is motivating the move. In our experience, this demographic still wants a large house, but location is the main factor. This could be somewhere more rural to enjoy the benefits of country living, on the edge of town for the best of both, or simply nearer to family and friends.

“Key to designing for this demographic is emphasising a lifestyle. It should highlight

Luxury Homeowners

Downsizers

“With this demographic, design should offer reassurance. Downsizers need to be able to clearly understand how rooms and a new layout will work so positioning of furniture and maximising all available spaces is important. It’s also about demonstrating how a new house can still be a focal point for family gatherings, whether that’s with a stylish formal dining room or themed bedrooms for visiting grandchildren.

Obviously, the other option for downsizers is a retirement living development, but I will share more on design for this demographic in a future issue!

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

For more on Edward Thomas Interiors visit www.rdr.link/dax052

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