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FRE E TO THE TRA DE

Professional BUILDING ■ FLOORING ■ PLUMBING ■ ROOFING ■ CARPENTRY ■ PAINTING AND DECORATING ■ THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR THE BUILDING INDUSTRY

APRIL 2022

PLUMBING, BATHROOMS & WETROOMS BATHED IN GLORY!

MASONRY MATERIALS & LANDSCAPING UP THE GARDEN PATH! WINNER FOR CRAFTMANSHIP IN THE 2021 BRICK DEVELOPMENT AWARDS, THE WOLVERTON FOLLY IS A STUNNING 46FT HIGH OCTAGONAL TOWER BUILT USING MICHELMERSH’S CHARNWOOD HENLEY RED BRICKS.

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Total Average Net Distribution 112,725 1 July 2020 – 31 June 2021

APRIL 2022 VOL. 44 NO.4 @PB_mag

pb@hamerville.co.uk

contents www.youtube.com/protrademags

@probuildermag

@probuilderonline

Professional Builder, Regal House, Regal Way, Watford, Herts, WD24 4YF.

REGULARS 7 9 11 80 81 81 83

Editor’s Viewpoint News Letters Free-for-All Trade Media Wise Howell The Doctor’s Advice

FREE FOR ALL!see

In it to win it... page 80

28 62 GENERAL BUILDING 60 NEW PRODUCTS 62 Kingspan – Part L Explained

18 37 Allur Composite Decking 40 Evergreens UK Group – ArtificialGrass.com Training 42 Makita – Tools for Landscapers 44 NEW PRODUCTS PLUMBING, BATHROOMS & WETROOMS

SPECIAL REPORTS 12 Female Bricklayer Profile 14 Rated People – Home Improvement Trends Report 16 HBXL – Estimating Inventors’ Corner Software 18 Inventors’ Corner – J-strut MASONRY MATERIALS & LANDSCAPING

20 Award-winning Project 22 Marshalls – Choosing the Right Paving 25 CEMEX – Zero Carbon Concrete Block 28 Lawrence Bates Constructs a Masonry Spiral Staircase 31 Safeguard – Stormdry Masonry Protection 34 Anderton Concrete – Concrete Shuttering

46 Stelrad – Bathroom Radiators 48 Marmox – Slicedstone Mosaics 50 Sika Everbuild – Wetrooms 53 RWC – Reliance Valves MultiSafe Leak Detection System 56 Supplies4Heat – Radiators and Towel Rails 58 NEW PRODUCTS

67 DOORS & WINDOWS 64 Eclisse – Pocket Doors 67 TuffX – Installation Video 69 Quickslide – Regulation Changes

TOOLS & EQUIPMENT & WORKWEAR 60 NEW PRODUCTS 70 Tibby Singh Reviews Snickers 72 Scruffs Q&A

VEHICLES & PLANT

73 Honest John Vans – Q&A 74 Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles – Transporter Sportline 76 NEW PRODUCTS

DOORS & WINDOWS 78 Knauf Insulation – New Build 79 Marley – Solar Installation

PROFESSIONAL BUILDER APRIL 2022 3

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Total Average Net Distribution 112,628 1 July 2019 – 31 June 2020

MANAGING EDITOR TERRY SMITH EMAIL: tsmith@hamerville.co.uk DEPUTY EDITOR LEE JONES EMAIL: ljones@hamerville.co.uk GROUP ADVERTISEMENT MANAGER CRAIG JOWSEY TEL: 07900 248102 EMAIL: craig@hamerville.co.uk NORTHERN ADVERTISEMENT MANAGER IAN DUFF MOBILE: 07810 353525 EMAIL: ian@hamerville.co.uk GRAPHIC DESIGNER DONNA BOOTH GROUP PRODUCTION MANAGER CAROL PADGETT DIGITAL MANAGER JASMINE SMITH EMAIL: jsmith@hamerville.co.uk DIGITAL ASSISTANT LUCY HARDING EMAIL: lharding@hamerville.co.uk DISTRIBUTION MANAGER KARL CLARK PRINTED BY WALSTEAD PETERBOROUGH PUBLISHED BY HAMERVILLE MEDIA GROUP Regal House, Regal Way, Watford, Herts WD24 4YF Tel: (01923) 237799 Fax: (01923) 246901 Email: pb@hamerville.co.uk

Professional Builder is a business magazine for firms and individuals involved in all aspects of the building industry. It is available nationally – free to the trade through leading builders’ merchant outlets. © 2022 To be removed from this magazine’s circulation, please call 01923 237799 or email circulation@hamerville.co.uk. Subscriptions to Professional Builder are available at the following rates: UK: 1 year (11 issues) – £30.00 post paid Europe & Overseas: 1 year (11 issues) – £50.00 post paid Airmail: 1 year (11 issues) – £65.00 post paid

viewpoint HOUSE OF cARDS! Reports of yet another new Minister for Housing, the Right Honourable Stuart Andrew (no, we had never heard of him before either) was met with the now customary messages of cordial bon homme by those with more than a passing interest in what they hope he can deliver during the tenure of what, on the surface at least, appears to be a much coveted position. And certainly no one would dispute the massive and important challenges already piled high in his in tray with the housing sector at the very forefront of economic recovery from the pandemic and the much-heralded UK Levelling Up White Paper. Of course, we stopped sending “good luck in the new job” cards years ago when it was already costing us a small fortune in postage. Perhaps, as Mr Andrew settles into his new role, he might like to begin firstly by explaining exactly how he is going to make a noticeably better fist of it than the previous incumbents? Because, let’s be honest, there have been bigger and better men than him called upon to put on the obligatory hard hat and get down and dirty in the trenches to lay the foundations of a new glorious era of housebuilding. In fact, a bit of digging around reveals that Mr Andrew is – mind bogglingly – the eleventh Housing Minister in just twelve years and, quite frankly, we as an industry and, indeed, as a country deserve much, much better. As a nation which hold bricks and mortar dearer than most, to be treated with such apparent ambivalence to the cause is, quite frankly, embarrassing at best, and a national scandal of epic proportions at worst. It’s not the unfortunate Mr Andrew’s fault, of course. He is just part of the machinery which is doomed to failure before it even begins. “He may of only just moved in but You have to question how anyone in history tells us that the new housing such a position can reasonably expect to minister is unlikely to have finished achieve anything of significance in a job which history tells us will last an average properly unpacking before the of just twelve months. removal men are back at his door!” Followers of Premiership soccer will, of course, be no strangers to the concept of changing the man in charge mid-season. Watford, owned by the ruthless Pozzo family, are past masters of making potential suitors offers they can’t refuse and then throwing them to the sharks as soon as the tide of results turns inevitably against the team. Surviving regulation by the skin of their teeth a couple of times somehow justifies the means to an end but the plan is clearly not sustainable in the long term and burns money and resources at an alarming rate. Even their most ardent supporters are growing weary of this endless pursuit of short-term gains for long term failures, with the club in danger of becoming a laughingstock. We hear so much these days about the importance of sending out the right message. There are many channels to do so now and there is no hiding place for the foolish and unwary. The hard evidence here suggests that despite Government protestations housing is not as high up on the agenda as it would like us all to believe. Mr Andrew, like his already forgotten predecessors, will breeze in no doubt, shake a few heads together, oil a few wheels here and there and tweak a bit of legislation, all at vast expense and then he will disappear into the sunset. And the whole ridiculous charade starts all over again. Like the pampered professional footballers, civil servants know only too well that they will still be in job when the new boss is called to pastures new and can quietly revert to type after the storm has passed. Brought up on a Welsh council estate, we have no doubt that Mr Andrew is a decent chap with all the right intentions, and we shouldn’t condemn him before he has even got his feet under the table. However, it’s not hard to see that he will have his work cut out from the outset with the unenviable challenge of shaking up the planning system to enable over 300,000 new homes to be built a year. In fact, housing delivery targets set in January showed nearly a third of local councils had failed to build enough homes, with many of these authorities in areas with large swathes of Green Belt. Mention it quietly but Mr Andrew, who is MP for Pudsey, North Yorkshire, has campaigned vigorously in the past to save the Green Belt, opposing plans for major housing developments and roads in his area. He is about to discover that when it comes to housing, the deck is heavily loaded and however many times you shuffle the pack, you always end up with the same house of cards!

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News Professional Builder

email your news to us at pb@hamerville.co.uk Tel 01923 237799

Cutting corners on building sites continues to cost lives News that the number of constructionrelated injuries in the UK is on a slow overall decline is welcome, but employers and contractors are still cutting corners and endangering lives, according to personal injury specialist Lee Hart. A study, using published data from the Health and Safety Executive, shows injuries and ill health to workers is costing the UK construction industry approximately £1.29bn a year, with male construction workers seven times more likely to be injured. “Not only is this a staggering cost financially to industry but it is devastating to those seriously injured and the families of those killed,” said Lee, a member of Clarke Willmott’s accredited personal injury team, who

YES, MINISTER

Lots of work ahead for new Housing Minister to support SME Housebuilders, says FMB

specialise in catastrophic injury and fatal accident claims. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF001

BREAK TIME

Nearly one in three tradespeople have taken days off work to focus on their mental health

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON LEGAL ESSENTIALS, VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF002 FURTHER INFORMATION ABOUT DIRECT LINE BUSINESS INSURANCE’S TRADEPERSON COVER CAN BE FOUND HERE, WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF003

“The appointment of Stuart Andrew, MP as the new Housing Minister comes at a crucial time for the industry,” declares Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB. “He has a mandate to deliver 300,000 homes but inherits a declining sector of SME builders to support this. I look forward to working constructively with the new Minister to deliver a much-needed boost for small, local housebuilders. This will not only help plug the gap in housing stock, but will also play a vital role in levelling up the country, as who better to enable this than small, community-centric builders.” See PB’s viewpoint on Page 7. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF004

BUILDING THE FUTURE

A series of apprenticeship toolkits aim to support construction employers

Acting as a onestop shop for support and guidance, the website toolkits simplify access to information and reduce the obstacles that often deter employers. Starting at the beginning of the journey, they will detail the various routes to hiring an apprentice. From there, there’s a choice of four other sections to explore, including support available from CITB. This could be practical support, assisting employers with completing paperwork, or financial support, with a breakdown on how to claim funding for an apprentice.

The research from Direct Line business insurance also revealed that, on average, these tradespeople have taken five days off, with nearly one in ten (nine per cent) taking between one and two weeks to recover. Worryingly, 34 per cent say that they should have taken time off because of a mental health issue but felt that they had to push through and work anyway. The findings come amid a busy period for tradespeople. Almost half (49 per cent) have seen an increase in their workload over the last 18 months. They are working an average of 4.8 hours more each week and almost three extra days a month (2.74). For many, this rise in workload is leaving them exhausted. Nearly a quarter (24 per cent) have experienced burnout due to being so busy, while more than four in ten (43 per cent) feel increasingly stressed and anxious as a result. However, this is not the only factor contributing to mental health issues. The study found that reasons for stress and anxiety are diverse, ranging from financial worries, tool theft and legal issues.

THE COST OF INJURY

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF005

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News Professional Builder

email your news to us at pb@hamerville.co.uk Tel 01923 237799

PAIN IN THE @*/!

@R.Gino Santa Maria/Adobe Stock

Survey reveals extent of work-related pain Half (50 per cent) of tradespeople have taken time off work for a work-related pain or injury while three in five (60 per cent) suffer from lower back injuries, according to a survey by Jacuzzi. The company surveyed 2,000 Brits from a variety of industries about their experiences of injuries and pain at work. Whilst lower back injuries are the most common injury sustained, shoulder pain (31 per cent) is the second most likely issue to trouble tradespeople. In construction, neck pain (32 per cent) is the most common form of discomfort, followed by arm pain (25 per cent). Sadly, seven in ten (71 per cent) of construction workers say that they experience pain at work at least once a week, the highest percentage of any industry. TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT WORK-RELATED INJURIES PLEASE GOTO WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF006

FAIR TRADE

Tradespeople value quality and reliability over price when it comes to choosing which products to use

FOR MORE DETAILS VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF007

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A new survey by Spirotech has discovered that, whilst 86 per cent of homeowners are concerned about a rise in their energy bills, only a fifth are aware of the efficiency-improving benefits of removing air and dirt from their heating system. Over half of respondents had already kept their heating turned off for longer, or turned it down to a lower temperature, to save energy (54 and 51 per cent respectively), with nearly a third (32 per cent) of those surveyed fitting a smart meter and one in five switching energy supplier in a bid to make their bills more manageable. Only 2 per cent had installed a dirt filter and/or air separator as an energy-saving measure. Rob Jacques, Business Director UK at Spirotech, commented: “Removing air and dirt to maintain system flow and optimise heat transfer can reduce energy consumption, with our SpiroVent RV2 and SpiroTrap MB3 helping to save up to 13 per cent when installed together.” Spirotech’s ‘Better Heating Hub’ has been designed to help installers raise homeowner awareness of air and dirt removal, and can be used as an educational resource that customers can be directed to. TO VISIT THE BETTER HEATING HUB GO TO: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF008

VENT YOUR ANGER

Fabricator calls for change in trickle vent legislation

The boss of a major window and door fabricator has hit out at new Government legislation due to come into play in June that will see trickle vents become mandatory on all refurbishment and replacement projects. Conservatory Outlet’s Greg Kane believes the ‘ADF1’ regulation contravenes the demand for houses to be more energy efficient and could instead lead to homeowners facing up to a £500 increase in energy costs. He is calling on Ministers to rethink and make the introduction advisory rather than mandatory. FOR MORE DETAILS VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF009

FLYING START

Entrepreneurial spirit of the nation is alive and well A new study using Companies House data has revealed that 31,999 new businesses in the trades sector were founded in 2021. 6,598 of these were for electrical installation, while 6,281 were based around plumbing, heating and airconditioning. The research by Yell Business also found that key areas to startup a trades business include Belfast, Milton Keynes, and Salisbury. Significantly, more businesses were founded per month in 2021 than in 2019. FOR MORE DETAILS VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF010

In a survey of installers by automation products manufacturer, BFT, more than two-thirds of respondents cited the quality of a product as the most important priority when choosing equipment, with factors related to price cited by less than 10 per cent. “It stands to reason that it’s worth investing in products that will last, and it’s encouraging that installers recognise the value in turning to products that will do a job well, as part of an overall reflection of their work,” said Matthew Batson, a Director at BFT, whose products include swing and sliding gate operators, automatic barriers and bollards.

Where there’s muck

Homeowners unaware energy savings can be gained from air and dirt removal

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YOUR LETTERS... ...problemssolved

LANDSCAPE ARTISTS

UK homeowners that took to improving their gardens during the pandemic lockdown periods have invested wisely as they see property values increase greater than building an extension, or fitting a new kitchen, experts reveal. According to the 2019 Post Office Money Survey, landscaping your garden could potentially increase the value of your property by a whopping 77 per cent. This means garden landscaping provides a greater return on investment than building an extension, adding a swimming pool, or fitting a new kitchen. FOR MORE DETAILS VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF011 © tong2530/Adobe Stock

HOME RUN

New build registrations increase by a quarter New home registrations showed a year-on-year increase of 25 per cent to 153,339 for 2021, according to the National House Building Council (NHBC). Private sector registrations were the key driver, with eleven out of 12 UK regions witnessing growth in new home registrations and the north-east experiencing the strongest performance, where registrations were up by 74 per cent. Brokers Hank Zarihs Associates said development finance lenders had continued to support builders during the lockdown and were keen to lend more post pandemic. FOR MORE DETAILS VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF012

ENERGY GAP

Homeowners want green renovations but cost is the issue By making green renovations to the home – such as loft insulation, solid wall insulation, ground source heat pumps and double glazing – estimated savings of £890 every year can be achieved. However, the costs that are incurred when installing these features – which can run into thousands – remains a substantial obstacle. Cornerstone Tax has found that 36 per cent of homeowners think that making their home more energy efficient is a priority for them in 2022, but they are finding the price of doing so a major obstacle, with 45 per cent looking into make their property more energy efficient but found it too expensive without government support.

Dear Professional Builder Like most roofers I know we’re absolutely flat out at the moment and have been looking to employ more people, although that’s not always that straightforward a proposition. I also thought it would be nice to take on an apprentice so we can instruct them to the standard we’d expect right from the start and, at the same time, pass on some of what I know myself. We undertake a lot of heritage leadwork, for example, which is a skill all of its own. Having looked into it a bit further, however, there seems to be an awful lot of research you need to go in order to find out about, and access, the available grants and funding. If they made it easier for smaller companies like ourselves I’m sure the numbers of trainees would increase. There must be lots of young people out there who would welcome the opportunity. Graham Patton, Plymouth, Devon PB: It is certainly true that the system of funding can be a time-consuming process, especially for time-strapped tradespeople. The National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) has introduced a Careers Service that has been specifically developed to help SME roofing contractors in that regard and it would be nice to see more organisations make that kind of commitment. Professional Builder covered this initiative in our March edition and you can read about how the scheme can help roofers by making use of our digital reader enquiry service with the following link: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF014

CITB has also recently launched a series of toolkits designed for employers and these can be accessed here: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF015

FOR MORE DETAILS VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF013

PROFESSIONAL BUILDER APRIL 2022 11

Image courtesy of NFRC

Landscaping is the most costeffective form of home improvement, finds new study

GIS A JOB

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SPECIAL REPORT READERS’ LIVES

THE BRICKY Award-winning builder, Katie Smith is championing a career in the trades for women. Professional Builder’s Lee Jones talks to the Leicester-based bricklayer about her experiences.

k c i h c

hilst women remain woefully underrepresented in the building industry, they are an even rarer commodity in the wet trades, and that makes Katie Smith, AKA Katie ‘The Bricky Chick’, something of a trailblazer. Indeed, when she started working for Jelson Homes she would become the first female bricklayer in that developer’s 130-year history. “I did really have to badger them into giving me a chance, to be honest, and I think they admired my persistence. It was an attitude that would pay off, however, because I would win a Prince’s Trust Young Achiever of the Year Award whilst in their employ.” Since then, her career has advanced even further with some very significant landmarks along the way, not least working on an installation at the RHS Chatsworth Flower Show 2019 alongside designer and RHS Ambassador, Jamie Butterworth. “We actually made history at that event by becoming the first in the show’s history to collect all four top awards for a show garden, including a Gold medal, as well as the Best Show Garden and Best Construction award, whilst we were also judged the public’s favourite with the People’s Choice award. It’s the feature and bespoke work that really excites me and that’s what I’ve been concentrating on now.” We asked Kate what initially drew her to a career in bricklaying in the first place? “My grandad was a bricklayer and I spent a lot of time with him growing up. It’s always a challenge but there something very rewarding about building a structure with your own hands and there’s instant gratification when it’s finished. In fact, people do underestimate just how creative bricklaying can be. If that were made clearer to young people

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you would find more male and female entrants wanting to give it a go.” Currently on maternity leave, the artisan aspect of the trade has already taken Katie far and wide on a diverse range of projects from building and repairing chimneys for an old farmhouse in Norfolk, to a swimming pool surround at a luxury property in Guildford. It’s the kind of work the 32-year old is eager to return to, whilst she also has ambitions to move into property development. In fact, Katie celebrates as she places some of the final bricks on her award winning construction

it is Katie’s determination and enthusiasm to progress which is evident, even in the face of negativity. “I’ve always had a mixed response to working in what is not a traditional female role,” she admits, “and if more women are to enter the trades then there’s no doubt they will need support to progress.” “You need to be defined by being a bricklayer first and a woman second,” she concludes, “with the quality of your work the only measure of your value. When more people that look like me are seen on site hopefully that will happen but we’re not there yet. We need to get to a stage when we’re not a novelty because that in itself adds extra pressure.” One of the feature walls that Katie Smith built on the project at the RHS Chatsworth Flower Show 2019 that won multiple awards

Katie was part of the team that made history by becoming the first installation to collect all four top awards for a show garden

TO FURTHER INFORMATION ON KATIE ‘THE BRICKY CHICK’ VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF016

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SPECIAL REPORT HOME IMPROVEMENT TRENDS

Rated People’s Home Improvement Trends Report reveals the opportunities and challenges ahead. Lee Jones reports.

ROOMS FOR IMPROVEMENT ith over 50,000 tradespeople now using its site to find work and grow their businesses – and around a million jobs posted by homeowners annually – Rated People is well placed to identify some of the latest industry developments. The third edition of its Home Improvement Trends Report is a product of extensive data analysis of all that online interaction and represents a useful insight into property owners’ most popular building projects. As well as those all-important future business opportunities, the report also engages with some important social themes, including encouraging women in the trades, and the rise of eco projects. The pandemic precipitated an explosion of interest in residential building projects, and the report’s headline figures reveal a huge increase in demand for trade services. In 2021, for example, nearly half of UK residents made improvements to their homes and some of the easier wins in enhancing a domestic space, including painting & decorating, top the list. The experience of lockdown has taught the nation to make better use of space so that more can be done in the home and, whilst open plan remains popular, building walls to make separate rooms is also now in vogue.

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Whilst no-one would baulk at high demand it has created issues for the public in sourcing a good builder and projects have been delayed as a result. Similarly, materials and labour shortages have increased for the trades, with 89 per cent reporting an increase in costs, and 83 per cent of tradespeople have already had to raise their prices as a result. Some of the renovations that are likely to see some of the biggest increases in costs this year including bathroom and kitchen refurbs and loft conversions. Social media continues to drive design trends with TikTok coming to the fore, and the big theme for 2022 is again dedicated space.

Stereotypes The report also investigates some of the reasons behind the under-representation of women in trade services, who currently make up less than five per cent of the workforce. It identifies the challenges and negative stereotypes that women in the industry face, but also paints a more optimistic picture. Encouragingly, for instance, nearly half of all homeowners reported that they would hire a tradeswoman, and there is real interest from women clients in particular in hiring an individual of the same gender to come into their home. Rated People has also launched its own Empowering

Tradeswomen Programme, which will include the offer of three months of free Rated People membership to women who are applying to the site as the primary account holder. Minimising our impact on the planet is reflected in a 44 per cent rise in eco jobs, with car charging ports, green roofs and smart meters witnessing huge increases. It’s a movement that is reflected in trades businesses themselves with 7 in 10 declaring that they would expand their skillset to take on more green building projects Rated People also spoke to over 2,000 homeowners and 600 tradespeople directly. Additional layers of research included Google search volume trends, the direction of interior design on social media platforms, government data, and a partnership with RightMove that has revealed the added value potential of extensions in different regions of the UK.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON THE RATED PEOPLE HOME IMPROVEMENT TRENDS REPORT VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF017

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BUSINESS SOLUTIONS ESTIMATING SOFTWARE

PROFIT PICKPOCKETS

Joanna Mulgrew, Managing Director at HBXL Building Software, home to EstimatorXpress, discusses the builders who are cheating themselves out of their hard-won profit. ‘

atch out watch out there’s a thief about’, and it could be you. Builders who fail to pass on to customers all the costs are literally doing themselves out of money. For example, a builder quotes £100,000 for a decent sized extension, having included, say, a relatively small £20,000 profit margin. If they haven’t used the latest and increased material prices in their estimating, the shortfall will come out of the £20K. By using pen and paper or a spreadsheet builders are doing themselves a major disservice. If a percentage isn’t added on for wear and tear, for instance, then you, the builder, will be funding the broken drill, the lost hammer and the hard hat that’s gone walkies – not the customer.

surprises. Others simply provide an explanation alongside the predicted price based on inflation. Savvy customers soon work out which building firms they can trust.

Quote date and start date prices

Overheads allowance

Construction cost inflation is at its highest for a generation and, due to the level of demand, many builders are booking in jobs starting in 6, 9 or 12 months’ time. Rising prices mean that even using today’s latest prices (which are a nightmare to keep on top of!), the current cost won’t be enough by the time you actually begin. So it’s especially important to factor inflation into 1) lengthy projects and 2) projects starting further into the future. Again, a good digital solution will do the complex calculations for you – providing the price now using ‘live’ prices and the actual inflated price of construction at the job start. It’s up to you how you use that knowledge to protect your profit. Some of our software users will show the customer today’s quote, plus the anticipated inflated quote, to avoid any

Is there a figure in the quotation for the customer’s share of the outgoings that keep you in business? Van leases, mobile phone, internet, a bookkeeper, annual accounts, insurance, trade organisation membership, software, office supplies and so on – they all have to be paid for – work or no work. Not on the tools yourself? You need to include your management time. You are still a project overhead. Charge the client all the hours. And definitely put in a time allowance for subbies or supplies arranged by the customer – you’ll still be the one co-ordinating it all. A decent estimating software package will absorb the overheads, wear and tear, your management time and profit into the project itself. You wouldn’t have to present the figures separately, unless you wanted to.

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Efficient management If you’re not quick to schedule and order materials your job will start hitting delays. And if you don’t have the figures in a presentable state, you’ll struggle to negotiate any savings. Plus, if you’re in and out of the builders’ merchant you’ll be robbing yourself and paying for expensive fuel. And without an editable build programme, and auto-generated lists and schedules, reports and analysis, you won’t be able to act quickly to maximise your profitability. That aforementioned £20K profit margin could very easily be whittled away. Theft by stealth, and only discovered at the accountant’s end of financial year meeting. So, either keep your wits about you or let a professional, securityconscious estimating software tool protect your profit for you. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON THE LATEST CONSTRUCTION SOFTWARE RANGE FROM HBXL VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF018

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Professional INVENTORS’ CORNER

‘STRUTing’ ITS STUFF!

Professional Builder talks to J-strut, a new company looking to propel the ubiquitous acrow to new heights of efficiency and safety. he art of creating temporary structures to support a building during its construction has been practised since ancient times and is generally known as falsework. Up until the turn of the 20th century almost all falsework was hand made from timber and had to be purpose built. However, in 1935 a Swiss born inventor named William de Vigier designed a steel support that could be manually adjusted to the desired height using a threaded collar. This enabled it to be quickly installed, removed and reused, which led to huge reductions in labour costs and material usage. De Vigier named his business “Acrow” after his solicitor Mr A Crowe who helped patent the idea. Despite early scepticism within the industry, it soon became the go to product, being particularly effective in reducing the cost of temporary structures to cast slabs and walls of concrete, known as formwork. The company went on to

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revolutionise many aspects of the construction industry and its products soon become an industry standard with the term acrow becoming established as a generic around the world. Sadly, that original business has long since folded but the overall design remains largely the same some eighty years on and is a key component in

modern construction and renovation projects. The temporary supports now have standard threads and load capacities and are available in five common sizes, extending anywhere from between 1 and 4m. Despite its universal adoption on building sites around the world, however, setting up steel supports are not without

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“With the patent secured, a company has been set up to bring the product to market and, in tribute to the lead inventor’s late father-in-law Jim, the J-strut is now set to “collar” a new generation of steel support users.” their drawbacks. It is a timeconsuming process, labour intensive and sometimes fraught with the risk of injury. Spinning the collar to the right height requires physical effort and when threads are caked in dirt, rust and cement it takes significantly longer. Holding the support in the desired position while carrying out minor adjustments can be awkward for a one-man operation and pinched fingers between the metal sleeves or the handle is not uncommon. It’s not unusual also to see a hammer being used to make the last couple of turns but a mistimed glancing blow can lead to more physical and debilitating injuries. It was with all these factors in mind that in 2021 an accomplished team of British engineers and designers decided that it was high time for the octogenarian acrow to have a major overhaul. Together they came up with a unique way to adjust the device using a cordless impact driver – the sort no self-respecting tradesman would been seen on site without. Working on the basis that all conventional acrows have a standardised trapezoidal thread, the team designed its new pinion geared collar as a straight swap for an existing collar, enabling any size of temporary steel support to be easily retrofitted. Adjustment, if required, can also be made manually by using the incorporated lugs from the original acrow collar design. With the patent secured, a company has been set up to bring the product to market and in tribute to the lead inventor’s late father-in-law Jim, the J-strut is now set to “collar” a new generation of steel support users. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON THE J-STRUT VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF019

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TOWERING SUCCESS! Handmade bricks and expert masonry skills have combined to produce something really special in Warwickshire.

eserved winner of the Brick Development Association’s 2021 Award for Craftsmanship, Wolverton Folly is a 46’0” high octagonal tower built for Nicholas Coleridge CBE, to entertain, write and work, and enjoy the distant views of Bredon Hill. It consists of a ground floor entrance hall with a small kitchen and WC. There is a first-floor study/sitting room with stairs leading up to a turret, which gives access to a roof terrace. Michelmersh’s Charnwood Henley Red bricks were used throughout. They are a subtle multi red brick, close in colour to the Queen Anne period Wolverton Hall which is visible from the folly. The brick is handmade in the traditional way which was important for manufacturing the 17 special shaped bricks which give the folly

its distinctive geometry. On each corner of the octagon are octagonal buttresses which resolve themselves into pure octagons above the parapet, complete with ball finials. The angled face of the buttresses bond into the main wall in the traditional way. The bricks are 2” high “Tudor” bricks with a wide lime mortar joints. The bigger joints and smaller bricks give the folly a lighter appearance. This is helped by the contrasting stone architraves and strings and Mr Coleridge’s coat of arms above the door. A lot of attention was given to the selection of the sharp sand in the mortar to give a light buff colour. All the mortar was mixed on-site by J Rigg Construction, the main contractor and brickwork contractor. Setting out the brickwork was crucial and wooden templates of the corners

were made for cutting bricks and to ensure the buttresses did not twist or lean as the tower was constructed. The brick bond was designed as a traditional brickwork corner with each octagonal face alternating between a “header” and “stretcher” face on each course.

Judges’ Comments The Wolverton Hall Folly is an exquisitely executed octagonal tower, an unforgiving geometry, which required extremely precise brickwork drawings and accurate design of specials. There is almost no tolerance in the design, which is the minimum size required to accommodate the staircases. The project’s success therefore hinges on the craftsmanship of the brickwork and the precision with which the brickwork was planned.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON J RIGG CONSTRUCTION VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF098 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON MICHELMERSH VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF020

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SMOOTHING THE PATH

Image courtesy of J&D Castle

Marshalls has the range to help you choose the right paving for the job

hen it comes to exterior landscaping, you need to confidently recommend the best paving for the job at hand or at least understand the pros and cons of each material type. With a growing list of options and brands to choose from, this important decision can feel hard to come by, but read on for an insight into the main material types and tips on what to look out for.

surrounds. As a benchmark, every product in the Marshalls porcelain range is certified as R11. Recommend porcelain paving for: customers who want minimal upkeep and a sleek and modern finish.

PORCELAIN Porcelain has grown in popularity as a patio choice over the past few years and is becoming more common for driveways. The main benefit of porcelain for homeowners is that it’s a low maintenance option and one of the easiest paving types to clean. While many people like the smooth look of porcelain, there are sometimes concerns over it being slippery. You can provide reassurance on this by using the ‘slip skid rating’, measured in “R” values. The slip skid rating goes from R9 to R13; R9 is for dry-only areas, R13 is ideal for consistently wet areas like swimming pool

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Bellamay Paving & Landscaping installing porcelain

NATURAL STONE Natural stone paving remains a classic choice, and one which looks great with properties from any period, but especially traditional homes. As with any natural product, there is a variation in how each slab looks in terms of colour and texture; this adds character to the space and is a big selling point for most people but worth making your customer aware before you lay it. Natural stone forms over thousands of years, so as long as you’re buying it from a reputable supplier, you should have confidence in its durability and strength. If you’re using a new supplier for natural stone, be sure to check it meets the British Standard (BS 7533 Class 2) and ask for water absorbency and flexural strength data, as these are key indicators of how well it lasts. As a guide, all sandstone sold by Marshalls has maximum water absorption of 1.7 per cent; experts suggest that anything higher than this could go green within a few months and could be more slippery. When it comes to flexural strength, a stone less than 12MPa (megapascals) may not be more vulnerable during cold weather.

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paving unit and the bedding mortar. This gives you a solid and long-lasting finish. High-quality finish – slabs with a uniform thickness and finish enable a better bond with the bedding mortar. Partial contact between the underside of an uncalibrated slab and the bedding mortar can result in surface staining. Consistency all around – because the product is a consistent thickness, all delivery crates should weigh the same. The pack weight can fluctuate between 20 per cent and +20 per cent for uncalibrated or poorly calibrated products.

are a priority. Standard concrete products are ideal for larger new build estates where a uniform look is needed.

Invest in your understanding While some customers do their own research, it’s likely to be focused on how a material looks. Ease of installation and technical specs are unlikely to excite clients, but they will make a difference to installation time and, ultimately, cost, so use the technical support offered by good suppliers to make sure you have the complete picture.

Recommend natural stone paving for: homeowners with period properties looking for a garden that stands the test of time, both in style and durability. Make laying stone easier by choosing a calibrated product with an even thickness on the underside. Go for ‘fully’ calibrated stone to avoid what is known as ‘flat bottoming’, which can lead to technical issues. Flat bottoming is where the stone is calibrated to its specified thickness as a maximum rather than a minimum. For example, if a specified thickness is 22mm and parts of the slab were initially thinner than this, they go under the calibration machine untouched and end up a lot thinner than 22mm. Look for a tolerance of around +2mm from the stated thickness. And last but never least, make sure you’re sourcing and installing ethical stones. Too many overseas quarries still use child labour and operate in unsafe conditions. Any reputable supplier will be happy to share details of their sourcing with you, and passing this information to your customers helps their peace of mind.

Benefits of a properly calibrated natural stone product Ease and speed of installation – the uniform thickness of calibrated stone means you can screed out the bedding mortar over a large area, allowing quicker laying. If you choose to use units that vary in thickness, you need to adjust the height of the bedding mortar for each slab. Stronger installation – the ribs from the calibration process give a larger, irregular area on the underside of the slab, helping to achieve a strong bond between the

CONCRETE Over the years, concrete paving has moved beyond standard grey flags and block paved driveways, although these ranges remain popular. But with new production methods and finishing styles, people are now opting for concrete for reasons beyond its durability. When it comes to driveways, customers who want the look of natural stone at a slightly more affordable price are regularly opting for concrete replicas of granite, riven stone and even antique cobble styles. Because these are manufactured and not natural products, they are often engineered to be quicker and easier to install, making them a better option for you too. Sourcing concrete products that are made in Britain increases the availability and lead time for delivery too, which is great for time-sensitive jobs. And, because products are made closer to where they are laid, carbon footprints are lower. With sustainability a higher priority than ever before, it’s also worth knowing about the permeable options available with concrete paving. Designed to deal with water run-off in a sustainable way, permeable paving also removes the need for planning permission for new driveways, which can be a big bonus. Recommend concrete paving for: projects where durability and sustainability

Drive Doctor installing concrete cobbles

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON THE RANGE OF SOLUTIONS FROM MARSHALLS VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF021

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AT THE READY CEMEX has introduced what it describes as the UK’s first zero carbon concrete block. Professional Builder’s Lee Jones finds out more.

e are now set firmly on an inexorable path towards a greener and more sustainable built environment but many of the most important points on that journey have hitherto prioritised heat pumps and other emissions reducing technologies. By comparison, relatively little has been said about the building fabric, but CEMEX believes it can make significant gains here to, and the result is ReadyBlock Zero. CEMEX Technical Manager, Martin Ashfield explains the principle behind the product: “There are essentially two parts to the story. Our first task was to reduce the embodied carbon of the block to the lowest level that can be achieved, and we did that by developing a geopolymer concrete solution. That will, however, always leave a residual level of carbon, which can then be addressed through a process of offsetting.” Where a traditional block would use

cement as a binder – which is a relatively energy and CO2 intensive material – CEMEX has utilised a by-product of the steel industry in its place – GGBS (Ground Granulated Blast-furnace Slag). Geopolymer products of this kind are not new, of course, and manufacturers have for some times been making use of the likes of Pulverised Fuel Ash – sourced from coal fired power stations – as well as

less common materials such as RHA (Rice Husk Ash), which is an agricultural waste. In each instance – and crucially for the end user – a blend of GGBS and complementary alkali activators delivers a block which is just as hard and durable as its concrete counterpart. Indeed, in terms of strength, thermal performance, density, and any other parameter you can mention, there is no discernible difference. Where it stands apart is in its environmental credentials and, with the Government’s Future Homes Standard demanding a 75-80 per cent reduction in carbon emissions by 2025, that is now of fundamental importance. “The savings are significant,” continues Martin, “and we estimate a reduction from 1.3kg of CO2 generated per block, down to 0.3kg, or around 80 per cent, with the remainder then addressed through carbon offsetting.” For manufacturers, combating climate change in their own processes is a war on many fronts and

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the product itself is only one theatre of operation. Using renewable energy where possible, sourcing raw materials, such as aggregate, with lower embodied CO2, and many more factors besides, all play their part, and this is where CEMEX has gone a step further. Paul Fletcher, Head of Sustainability Europe reveals more: “We’ve been working with an award-winning company called Natural Capital Partners, who are experts in the carbon offsetting arena. Using a methodology known as the CarbonNeutral Protocol® we’ve been able to verify our CO2 emissions our products – including ReadyBlock Zero – from cradle to customer. It’s actually an incredibly detailed study that takes into account not just raw materials and production, but water and energy usage at every stage, transportation to the customer, and even the strapping that goes around the blocks for delivery. Once we have that data we can then work to reduce the CO2 output further.”

As part of its sustainability drive CEMEX is also working towards a fully solar-driven cement plant

The process doesn’t stop there, however, because Natural Capital Partners takes this CO2 initiative to another level by managing various tree planting and reforestation schemes on behalf of its clients, which ultimately delivers the coveted CarbonNeutral® status. It also places environment issues at the forefront of the organisation’s

thinking, which is why all UK CEMEX plants are now powered by renewable electricity, for example, whilst globally the manufacturer is pioneering a move towards solar-driven cement plants. The problem is, of course, pressing not just in terms of a climate crisis but also for contractors who need to adapt to new regulations. By June 2022, new build homes in the UK must reduce CO2 by around 30 per cent, for example, and a cement-free solution such as ReadyBlock Zero can make a telling contribution, without any compromise on quality. READYBLOCK ZERO IS PART OF CEMEX’S VERTUA FAMILY OF LOW CARBON AND SUSTAINABLE URBANIZATION SOLUTIONS. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF022 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON THE WORK OF NATURAL CAPITAL PARTNERS VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF023

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UPWARDLY MOBILE! An Englishman’s home really is his castle now thanks to the creative thinking and expert skills of master bricklayer Lawrence Bates

ecessity is the mother of invention, as they say, and the recent shortages of key materials being experienced within the construction industry has clearly required some creative thinking by exponents of their various trades. One of those who was quick to swap his hard hat for a thinking cap was the contractor on a project master bricklayer, Lawrence Bates, was plying his trade. He then sent us some intriguing images, highlighting how the team kept a major renovation project moving forward when the original plans were put on hold as a result of supply chain issues. We caught up with 35-year-old Lawrence, who has been running his own company for five years on site, in the quaintly named village of Tarrant Gunville near Blandford, north Dorset where an old unloved bungalow had been demolished to make way for an idyllic rural new build. He told us more: “It’s obviously a lovely part of the world to be plying my trade and throws up some really interesting challenges from time to time but, like everyone else of late, we have been experiencing our fair share of material shortages and significant price hikes. “The project here had initially been progressing well and an outstanding feature of the property is a new medieval style turret with an attractively tiled dome roof. The construction required some 600 Celcon Aircrete blocks and 600 aggregate blocks, with each one cut in half to create a circular tube rising more than twenty feet. With my bit successfully completed, I got a call from the main contractor explaining that the original plan to construct the internal staircase in timber was on hold because he couldn’t access the raw materials for the carpenter and the original price had rocketed. he came up with the idea of a masonry

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Lawrence Bates and his inventive Spiral Staircase

replacement and asked if it was something I could do?” Continues Lawrence: “My immediate thoughts turned to the castles of old and how stonemasons had employed their traditional skills to construct intricate staircases within the castle walls and towers, which had clearly stood the test of time over centuries of heavy footfall and no doubt the odd cannonball here and there! Obviously, there were no plans or drawings to work from on this project, but I

“It’s fair to say that my additional input into the project probably wouldn’t have materialised in this unexpected way if the original timber components had been available but it shows what can be achieved if you think outside of the box.” was confident a similar outcome could be achieved using modern aggregate blocks. The key starting point was establishing a plumb line in the centre of the turret. Using a scaffold pole as a guide, I somewhat tentatively started laying out the first blocks. It was a journey into the dark in many ways but once the first blocks were in place the rest sort of fell naturally into place.

Block buster “It was the most labour intensive job I have ever undertaken, simply because of the sheer number and precise nature of the multitude of cuts. And, of course, aggregate blocks are a lot more difficult to cut than the aircrete ones. I went through several blades during the process but, after a couple of days of hard graft, I was starting to establish a real sense that on so many levels this approach to the staircase was actually much more in keeping with the concrete

turret than a wooden option. The whole job took about seven full days but crucially it meant the other trades could begin to access the upstairs for the second fix. The contractor was really delighted with the overall effect and the new owners have a feature which has already become a real talking point both inside and out now.” Muses Lawrence: “It’s fair to say that my additional input into the project probably wouldn’t have materialised in this unexpected way if the original timber components had been available but it shows what can be achieved if you think outside of the box. Time will tell whether it’s a one off for me, but it’s a good one to have on my CV and I now have the confidence to take on other projects in the future which may require a more creative use of the blocks,” he enthuses. Like his new staircase, Lawrence is clearly destined to step up his game on so many levels!

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If you have a particularly interesting story to tell or, like Lawrence, have turned adversity into something special, let us know at Professional Builder pb@hamerville.co.uk

IF YOU WANTED TO SEE MORE OF MASTER BRICKLAYER, LAWRENCE’S WORK ON INSTAGRAM VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF024 FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE RANGE OF CELCON BLOCKS VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF025

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THE DAMP BUSTERS! Safeguard explains the process of protecting retrofitted homes from the harmful effects of penetrating damp. avity wall insulation retrofit has received lots of bad press recently. The papers paint pictures of perfectly comfortable housing turned into dampridden nightmares following the installation of cavity wall insulation. This rush to insulate Britain, seemingly accelerated by government grants, has caused hesitancy in homeowners who should be retrofitting their older homes with energy-saving measures. Builders and contractors across the UK need to reassure homeowners that retrofitting their older property will increase thermal efficiency and improve the value of their home while remaining damp-free. There are 28 million homes in the UK. It is estimated that around 19 million properties need some form of energy efficiency upgrade as a part of the UK’s commitment to Net Zero by 2050. For older homes, these necessary upgrades may include cavity wall insulation to maintain heat efficiency alongside other upgrades like renewable energy generation and draught-proofing. It is paramount that cavity wall insulation continues to be installed in older homes to keep homeowners running energy-efficient properties. It is true that some homeowners have suffered from penetrating damp and mould growth after cavity wall insulation has been retrofitted. However, the mass panic around

energy-saving retrofit stems from a lack of understanding about the reasons behind these damp homes. You already know

that cavity wall construction makes up the bulk of all UK housing, and around 70 per cent of those homes already have cavity wall insulation installed, but the average homeowner may not. It’s time to bust that bad reputation. So, who’s to blame for causing damp after retrofitted cavity wall insulation? Put simply – building contractors who haven’t done their homework. In cases of dampcausing retrofit, insulation has been rushed into older homes without consideration for the type of house or condition of the outer wall. When cavity walls get wet, they soak up moisture and trap it between the internal and external leaves. When the space between a cavity wall has been filled with insulation, rainwater soaks through the fibre, foam or polystyrene insulation to reach the

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internal wall. This manifests as a wet streak on the interior wall that harms heat efficiency, damages the wall and encourages black mould growth. The first step to damp-free retrofit is to ensure the building is suitable for cavity wall insulation at all. Older houses are more likely to suffer from damaged brickwork and mortar, which makes them more vulnerable to wind-driven rainfall. All properties must be surveyed and appropriate repairs carried out to the brickwork and pointing before cavity wall insulation is installed. Safeguard Europe is constantly developing new technologies to beat damp and mould growth. We know how cavity wall insulation should be correctly implemented and we know what needs to be done to successfully damp-proof homes. Three decades of experience of dealing with damp have culminated in Stormdry Masonry Protection Cream. Fully water-repellent, its BBA-certified to last up to 25 years after just one coat.

When applied to the exterior of a building, it drastically reduces water from penetrating through to insulation and keeps homes damp-free. Remember – only dry cavity wall insulation can achieve maximum thermal efficiency and stop penetrating damp. Some properties, like single skin solid brick walls, may not be suitable for cavity wall insulation at all. In these cases, a hybrid magnesium oxide and aerogel insulation board like Stormdry EP-Board can be installed to internal walls as an alternative insulative measure. In

combination with the Masonry Protection Cream, EP-Board will reduce heat loss and prevent damp in properties not suitable for cavity wall retrofit. TO LEARN MORE ABOUT STORMDRY AND RETROFIT WALL INSULATION AND DAMPNESS CPD SEMINAR, CONTACT SAFEGUARD AT INFO@SAFEGUARDEUROPE.COM FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON SAFEGUARD’S STORMDRY VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF026

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LAYING THE GROUNDWORK As landscaping professionals begin preparing for another busy summer season, Tim Fields, Structural Products Manager at Anderton Concrete, discusses the latest industry trends and technologies ith a market size of £5 billion, the UK landscaping sector is continuing to boom, as the popularity for exterior renovation projects continues. Over the last two years, homeowners’ motivation to ‘improve rather than move’ has steadily increased, as individuals look to add real value to their property, whilst simultaneously creating additional outdoor living space. The construction of exterior areas that provide dedicated spaces to dine, relax or work has formed a major part of this trend, with many building professionals being employed to design and create usable spaces that successfully utilise every square metre in the most cost efficient and effective way. Here, the construction of garden walls to create terraces located on multiple

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levels throughout the garden has become increasingly popular, with modern methods of construction providing affordable and easy to install solutions that deliver first class longevity and durability. This includes modular reinforced concrete systems, which offer a direct alternative to formwork. As the concrete blocks are dry laid, it not only streamlines the installation process, but provides professionals with unlimited design freedom to create a variety of garden walls that meet the unique requirements of each project.

As the materials provide a limitless range of shape, individuals can quickly and easily construct curved walls, steps and decorative features, without requiring additional resource or materials.

Concrete answer To facilitate this we have developed the Stepoc concrete shuttering system, which combines the ease of blockwork construction with the versatility of in-situ concrete, making it faster to apply than both types of materials. The highly engineered and dimensionally coordinated blocks are filled with concrete pumped down through the interconnected cavities to create a smooth finish that forces out air and eliminates segregation. The end result is a wall that

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has immense compressive and lateral strength, whilst providing considerable cost and time savings when compared with traditional methods of in-situ concrete and cavity block construction. Modular concrete systems also support professionals in quickly and easily meeting the chosen visual requirements of each project, as once installed, the blocks can be finished in a range of highperformance materials, including brick, stone and render. This not only enables the homeowner to personalise the structure to reflect their own style, but subsequently requires minimal ongoing maintenance once constructed. As single skin retaining walls can be built up to 4.3metres high, depending on block thickness, modular systems can also be utilised as a simple and effective method of constructing retaining walls for water features including ponds and even swimming pools. The impressive performance benefits of concrete modular units also lends the

materials to the construction of retaining boundary walls around the entire property which will create additional privacy for the homeowner, whilst also reflecting the same visual appeal as the decorative garden walls. This includes systems such as our Keystone range, which can be built over 15metres high when positively connected with proprietary geogrid systems. The dry build construction can meet the most demanding site requirements with ease, whilst the high strength concrete provides a system that will deliver first class resilience and longevity. For gardens that feature facing retaining slopes, professionals can also

utilise dry laid concrete block systems to build gravity walls as an economical alternative to vertical retaining walls. Weighing less than 20kg per block, Anderton Concrete’s Slopeloc blocks are easy to handle and install, significantly increasing on-site efficiencies, whilst also alleviating manual handling concerns. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON ANDERTON CONCRETE’S SLOPELOC BLOCKS VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF027 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON THE SAME MANUFACTURER’S KEYSTONE RANGE VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF028

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VERY ALLUR-ING! Steve Ball, Technical Services Manager for Allur, explains the rationale behind the launch of the newest composite decking brand to hit the UK market.

Pictured is Silver Grey from the brand new Allur composite decking brand

Can you tell us why you’ve brought Allur composite decking to what is already a highly competitive UK market? Steve Ball (SB) The outdoor living trend has dominated over the past two years, with consumers choosing to invest more in their outdoor spaces to make the most of relaxing and entertaining at home. This has spurred significant growth in the composite decking market as consumers seek products that offer long-lasting looks with low maintenance and green credentials. Composite now accounts for 25 per cent of the decking market compared with 17 per cent in 2019 and continues to take market share from its Allur is the first brand to market with a Sage green deck board

timber counterpart. Recognising this opportunity, our new Allur range targets the market’s sweet spot for consumers, retailers and landscaping professionals who want premium design and quality, at an attractive price point. We can also assure an eco-friendly purchase thanks to its high recycled plastic and wood fibre content.

What’s included in the Allur range?

SB Basically, a complete decking solution comprising 3,600mm x 148mm hollow doubled-sided boards in seven fashionable colours, alongside fascia boards, corner edging strips, plastic T clips, starter clips and screws, as well as composite joists of 3,000mm x 50mm.

What are the key benefits of Allur for professionals working on landscaping projects? SB Not all composite manufacturers offer a complete decking solution. With high demand for the upcoming gardening season, tradespeople will want to avoid the time-consuming task of shopping around for components to complete a project and our offering ensures a no-

hassle purchase, and no-hassle fit from a single supplier. The range also offers the peace of mind of an industry leading 25-year warranty when installed as a complete solution, along with a host of industry accreditations and certifications including BS EN 15534-1:2014 and slip and fire resistance. Another major benefit is the ease and speed of installation using standard woodworking tools. Allur boards are also lighter to handle and carry than timber alternatives and, at 12ft long, can be easily transported to jobs on top of the van.

What makes Allur an attractive proposition for installers? SB With timber decking and some composite systems, installers need to predrill the boards and counter sink the screws to secure them into place. Allur uses a T-clip system which simply screws into place in between the decking boards and secures the board via the built-in side groove, saving a lot of extra work and precious time. The T-clips also allow for the natural expansion which occurs with composite decking due to its recycled plastic content.

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For an average 2m by 3m decking area, our system reduces installation time by up to 15 per cent compared to timber systems or composite systems without T-clips. We’ve developed an extremely comprehensive installation manual, backed by online technical support from a team of experts to support fitters.

What other benefits does it offer?

SB We recognise that builders and joiners want to use high-quality, stylish products that showcase their workmanship, and this is guaranteed with Allur. All visible components are fully colour-matched to each of the seven board colours, ensuring a high-end look in the attention to detail. The range has been developed to reflect the latest design trends, and we are first to market with a fashionable Sage deck board. We also offer Charcoal, Gunmetal and Silver Grey to reflect the ongoing popularity of grey, as well as Graphite, Caramel and Chocolate. The

Charcoal is one choice amongst an extensive colour palette

boards have a double-sided finish comprising a contemporary grooved side and a more traditional woodgrain side, giving the scope for installers to mix and match designs for a bespoke decking area.

Are eco-friendly products important to consumers? SB In a word, yes. The ‘Attenborough Effect’ has made people more conscious of their impact on the environment and consumers are now more interested in

The composite decking, pictured here in Caramel, is reversible with a choice of grained or grooved side.

buying products that are kinder to the planet. Allur has excellent green credentials with each 3.6m board containing 75 recycled plastic bottles, the equivalent of 3kg of recycled plastic, as well as 6kg of recycled wood fibre. At the end of its 25-year lifespan, the board is also fully recyclable. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON ALLUR COMPOSITE DECKING VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF029

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TOP OF THE ‘GRASS’ Builders can ride the artificial grass wave with Evergreens UK Group and its training provision

utdoor living is bigger than ever. Hot tubs, garden bars and outdoor kitchen experiences have popped up in every cul-de-sac and suburb as homeowners have made the most of their home lives. Entertaining on a small or large scale or catching a little garden R&R, the staycation and homeworking phenomenon has polarised the importance of the garden as a valuable extension to the home. This extra dimension has created a new “room”: the garden itself. Enjoying phenomenal growth on the back of these trends is the artificial grass market, with an ever-clean evergreen artificial lawn the go-to option for those looking to maximise the potential of their gardens for families and pets in a clean, evergreen outdoor living experience, all year round – and with little to no maintenance. But for every superbly installed premium artificial lawn there are a worrying number of poorly fitted, wrongly specified, sub-standard synthetic spaces liable to fail and deteriorate. And that is where professional training is vitally important. So, before you ask the signwriter to add on “artificial grass” to your van, consider the benefits, added value and competitive edge a professional training certification will give.

Raising standards The Evergreens UK Group has long been recognised across the UK as the pioneer in artificial grass products, systems and their continuous development. With its technical specialists at ArtificialGrass.com the company has gained official accreditation and an industry-recognised award from Lantra, the leading awarding body for land-based industries, for its Artificial Grass Training Programme.

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Hands-on training

Designed to raise professional standards in the art of artificial grass installation, the Artificial Grass Training Programme, administered at the company’s Midlands-based National Training Academy, is the first and only accredited training in the UK. “Since we launched the programme in 2020, we have seen an encouraging throughput of contractors achieving the certificate here in Rutland,” states Evergreens Sales and Marketing Director, Andy Driver. “We’ve a strong reputation and market presence for artificial grass that goes back over 35 years – and our network of installers and the ArtificialGrass.com products they install are testament to the importance we place on quality and the achievement of a premium end result.”

The two-day theory and practical training course caters for all abilities and is vital in ensuring proficiency in domestic, commercial and public arenas. Artificial lawns are typically installed by landscapers, grounds teams or facilities specialists and achieving an industryrecognised qualification gives you a competitive advantage and an extra professional edge as installers look to stand out in this busiest of marketplaces.

Product selection, tools and aftercare The nationally recognised course covers all elements of the installation process from product selection to aftercare. Trainees gain expertise on environmental working, consider site and drainage implications and explore the history and types of artificial grass. The programme also outlines how to match batches and details each stage of the measuring and installation process in a practical and informal environment. Aftercare, the right tools and associated equipment – each element is covered thoroughly and comprehensively.

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Added value Successful attendees will be awarded a Lantra certificate of competence a Skills Identity Card and can apply for an Artificial Grass Installer Blue Skilled LISS/CSCS Card via the British Association of Landscape Industries (BALI) – a requirement to work on any commercial site. Completing the training will reinforce customer confidence in your skills and installation methods – an added reason for them to choose an Accredited Installer over a non-trained competitor, distinguishing you from others on more than just price.

“Customers value that you’re part of a big brand that can facilitate training and teach us about the correct products and installation.” Josh Bartlett, Active Surfaces, Accredited Installer

Support and peace of mind By association, all trained installers accredited within the programme have the ongoing support and back-up of the ArtificialGrass.com merchant team. Whether attending as a team or a sole installer, you will be learning alongside others eager to develop at the forefront of artificial grass installation, product development, legislation and techniques. For further information and to secure

training places at the National Training Academy for this two-day theoretical and practical technical training provided by Accredited Trainers and a Technical Verifier for the British Association of Landscape Industries, visit WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF030 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON ARTIFICIALGRASS.COM VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF031

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assist modes that ensure the output can be easily adjusted to suit the task. The TD001GZ also has a one touch sliding chuck for easy bit installation and removal, as well as an ergonomic design for maximum user comfort, even over extended periods.

No.14

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Bringing the indoors outdoors

In the next instalment of our Toolbox series with Makita, the team look at the garden design trends that are set to make waves in 2022 and the tools tradespeople need to create them. With Spring well underway and the warmer months fast approaching, now is the time for garden renovation work to get started. Homeowners are increasingly recognising the value of having a functional yet beautiful garden that can be used as a space to unwind, entertain and socialise and for professionals called in to landscape gardens, it is important to make sure you’re up to speed with the latest design trends – and are equipped with a range of quality, durable tools that can help you to achieve them.

Zoned areas Outdoor spaces that can be used for dining, entertaining, relaxing and children’s play are becoming increasingly popular. Creating ‘zones’ using different materials and levels to visually separate different areas of the garden is a clever way to construct multi-functional gardens that your customers will love. LS004GZ01 XGT 40VMax Slide Compound Mitre Saw

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For example, decking is a versatile choice and can provide an elevated, flat, stable surface for garden furniture that is separate from turfed or planted areas of the garden. For cutting decking to size, use the LS004GZ01 XGT 40VMax Slide Compound Mitre Saw. This machine has been designed for powerful yet smooth operation and thanks to soft start and constant speed control users can experience effortless and safe cutting.

The garden is often seen as an extension of the home and creating outdoor environments that mimic indoor living spaces is a popular design trend – particularly for customers looking for a place to relax and unwind. Here, pergolas and covers offer shelter, shade and protection for soft seating and dining spaces, helping to blur the line between indoors and outdoors.

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Makita’s Auto-Start Wireless System means that the LS004GZ01 can be connected to compatible dust extractors via Bluetooth, ensuring that when the machine is in use the extractor automatically turns on for maximum protection. This machine can also be used in tight spaces thanks to its rail forward design that allows the rear of the machine to be placed against the wall. Once the TD001GZ decking has XGT 40VMax Impact Driver been cut, Makita’s TD001GZ XGT 40VMax Impact Driver can be used for fixing tasks. This machine is incredibly powerful and features four impact power settings and six

DG001GD201 XGT 40VMax Earth Auger

To create these structures, the DG001GD201 XGT 40VMax Earth Auger can be used to effortlessly bore post holes. Thanks to Makita’s powerful XGT

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40VMax platform, this machine delivers high power and, with two speed options available, operators can easily adjust the output to suit the soil. What’s more, Automatic Torque Drive Technology automatically adjusts the blade speed according to the load conditions for optimum operation. The DG001GD201 also features forward and reverse rotation options, so users can extract the machine from the earth with ease – which is particularly useful in high resistance soil such as clay. WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF034

For general or heavy-duty drilling and fixing tasks, the HP001GZ XGT 40VMax Combi Drill is ideal. It features two mechanical gears and a keyless chuck enabling operators to make adjustments to the tool with ease. The digital display provides visual confirmation that the selected torque is being achieved, for added peace of mind that the machine is working at its optimum. WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF035

DCE090 230mm cordless Disc Cutter

to protect the tool and user from kick back by shutting down the motor if rotation speed suddenly slows down. Helpfully, a cover protects the battery from splash damage during wet cutting. WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF036

PF1100 250L Submersible Drainage Pump

Water features To make the garden a haven for relaxation, consider installing water features like a pond, waterfall or stream as this will help to create a sense of calm and serenity. To make sure that water features remain as beautiful as the day they were installed, it is important to avoid the water settling or becoming stagnant as this can result in bacteria forming and becoming a risk to wildlife. To avoid this, it is important to keep the water moving using a pump like the PF1100 250L Submersible Drainage Pump. This model can be used to circulate clean water containing particles of up to 5mm, making it safe for use in ponds containing fish. WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF037

Additional useful tools The SKR200Z Automatic Self-Levelling Laser Level can be used for levelling, aligning and squaring elements such as setting walls, steps, decking and the lip of ponds and water features. Designed for high precision, this laser has three rotation speeds, fast electronic selflevelling and variable scanning – and is accurate to +-1mm at 10m. The SKR200Z comes as kit, complete with remote control, wall mount, laser intensive glasses, target plate, receiver, a bracket for the laser receiver and batteries. WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF038

DCU180Z 18V LXT Motorised Wheelbarrow

For transporting heavy goods around site, use the DCU180Z 18V LXT Motorised Wheelbarrow. It has two speed options and a reverse gear, as well as a threestage adjustable handle for maximum user comfort. Depending on the task, the rear wheels can be adjusted from 480mm to 760mm or detached and replaced with standing legs. WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF039

Outdoor kitchens Outdoor cooking has evolved in recent years, with permanent structural features for pizza ovens, smokers, refrigerators, bars and sinks that allow year-round dining now in demand. To tackle this kind of project, the DCE090 230mm cordless Disc Cutter is an ideal companion for stone and brick cutting tasks. It is powered by Makita’s leading Twin 18V LXT battery platform, with a no-load speed of 6,600rpm and maximum cutting depth of 88mm. To protect users during operation, the DCE090 can be connected to a water supply kit (P-54047) to supress dust and prevent exposure. Active Feedback Sensing Technology also works

SKR200Z Automatic Self-Levelling Laser Level

When it comes to achieving the garden designs your customers are after, it is important to have a wide selection of high-performance, durable power tools close at hand. Opting for cordless products will improve operator safety as there is no need to carry and transport petrol – and no fumes that pose a risk to users and the environment. What’s more, with no trailing cables cordless machines provide added flexibility and freedom when working outdoors. TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT MAKITA’S RANGE OF TOOLS VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF040

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EASYJOINT

DECKING

All of Marley’s decking is manufactured from sustainably sourced European Redwood providing full chain of custody with FSC and PEFC certification. The manufacturer visually assesses deck boards to BS 4978 in line with the grading requirements of BS EN 14081 and they are supplied graded to C16 or C24. The decking is preservative treated for a long service life. Marley has also developed an anti-slip range of deck boards with enhanced grip with the CitiDeck and AntiSlip Plus profiles providing a non-slip surface. TO WATCH A VIDEO ON WHY YOU SHOULD BE CHOOSING MARLEY’S TIMBER DECKING VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF041

SUSTAINABLE PACKAGING

Products in the Sika Everbuild portfolio that will benefit from packaging that uses repurposed or recycled plastic now include Stixall adhesive and Fastfix jointing compound. Customers will be able to easily identify the new packaging thanks to its dark grey colour, with the ultimate goal of using the more environmentally-friendly material across its entire range. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF042

PRODUCT SELECTOR

Thanks to its new Product Selector, Forticrete’s contractor customers can now visualise the company’s reconstituted walling stone across a range of applications. Users can also view the finishes, shades and size variations available across the Shearstone and Anstone ranges – alternatives to natural stone. The company also offers bespoke specifications. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF043

CEMENT-FREE CONCRETE BLOCK

The Greenbloc cementfree concrete block from CCP has been awarded an Environmental Product Declaration. Manufactured to BS EN 771 – 3: (2011) from class 1 aggregates and Cemfree – a totally cement-free alternative to conventional concrete – Greenbloc also complies with Part E of the Building Regulations for Walls and Floor. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF044

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The EASYJoint Select range from Azpects offers a quick and easy sweepin application method to fill joints in porcelain paving. Four new colours have been developed to complement emerging hard landscaping trends featuring Tungsten, Carbon, Bronze and Jet Black. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF045

TOPSOIL – SUBSOIL

British Sugar TOPSOIL’s Landscape20 General Purpose Topsoil and General Purpose Subsoil products have been added to NHBC Accepts. Launched last July, NHBC Accepts enables quicker assessment of a home for warranty and reduces the risk to the builder of delays in projects. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF046

PRE-SLEEVED POSTS

Ground line rot and decay in the upper 150mm (or 6 in.) of the ground is the number one cause of timber post failure. Postsaver Post Rot Protectors feature a dual-layer rot shield technology that when heated, shrinks onto the post creating a long lasting, high-performance, air and water-tight seal. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF047

WEBSITE

With a range of new interactive tools, AG is providing a more user-friendly experience for its customers on its new website. Professionals can take a 360 degree virtual tour of the company’s Dungannon Outside Rooms’ facility, calculate product prices, visualise products in different settings and layouts, and much more. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF048

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WARM WORDS Bathroom radiators are now part of the furniture according to Stelrad

t’s 2022, and something on pretty much every house buyer’s wish list is a home with an effective, attractive towel warming radiator in the bathroom and the kitchen, that also heats the rooms to make them toasty and inviting first thing in the morning. And if they add a certain panache to the room as well, so much the better. The market for these decorative or designer radiators has burgeoned in the past decade and is now well over a million units per year, reflected in the wider number of companies manufacturing and distributing these important heating appliances. Far from being just a source of heat on a cold and frosty morning, bathroom

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radiators are now quite simply an expected addition…something every new home buyer and virtually every buyer of older properties expects to find in bathrooms and en-suites. And as well as heating the bathroom people expect the radiator to dry their towels and warm them so they can wrap them around themselves when they step out of the bath or shower on the coldest of mornings.

Totally rad No longer a luxury item, they are very much part of the furniture. And with sales of bathroom radiators somewhere in between one and two million a year this is still a sizeable and important niche market for radiator manufacturers.

But what about the options available these days? Have they changed in the last few years? Indeed they have. The earliest special radiators for bathrooms were the traditional chrome towel rails, many available from the DIY sheds, many of which were the source of huge disappointment as they certainly warmed the towels but didn’t have the oomph to heat the room. As with all radiators, the secret, such as it is, is that the radiator needs to be sized correctly to heat the room adequately. The breadth of choice available has grown hugely and, whilst there are still chrome ladder rails available, with Stelrad offering a selection – and far better quality and better at sharing warmth around the room than their elderly predecessors – the selection of designs, finishes and even colours these days is something to behold. There are a larger number of manufacturers around supplying towel rails and the major radiator manufacturers that have tended to target the selling of traditional steel panel radiators have not taken the towel rail marketplace as seriously as they might. Certainly, as far as Stelrad here in the UK is concerned, it’s a market it takes very seriously, and the range of radiators for the bathroom, kitchen and other living spaces now available has seen the advent of a wider collection of specialist radiators and towel warmers than the company has ever offered before. There’s more designs – both traditional and contemporary – more choice of materials, with the arrival of a range of stainless-steel designs. There’s also a wider range of finishes, with polished and brushed stainless steel, and a selection of coloured radiators – with many coloured options in stock and available within 72 hours of order – all of

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which adds up to more choice for householders, interior designers and installers. It’s a far more sophisticated market than even a couple of years ago, with wellpriced, multiple sized offerings to match almost any décor and any size room with ease.

House warming Most of Stelrad’s radiators can be ordered in up to thirty-six colours – if you can wait a while for delivery – but there’s a wide range of options in anthracite grey from stock, which can blend well with other décor and add style to many bathrooms and kitchens. Interestingly, the monochrome bathroom and kitchen are very much back in style and can look elegant and contemporary. The addition of an attractive metallic radiator to traditional black and white can really add that luxurious look. The selection of options is vast but, just to pick out three, take a closer look at the Como – a flat brushed stainless-steel rectangular tube design for both modern and contemporary homes. The Column Vertical Concept – stunning in anthracite grey – again a combination of traditional design and modern colouring. And the new Traditional Column – a classic look especially in a bathroom – in traffic white with a chrome frame – offering just a little more style and lot more pizazz for the home… it’s a selection that demands careful consideration. TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE WIDE RANGE OF STELRAD TOWEL WARMING AND BATHROOM AND KITCHEN RADIATORS AVAILABLE VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF049

IN YOUR ELEMENTS Midlands training centre benefits from Stelrad radiators for courses Elements Training and Assessment Centre in Stourbridge in the West Midlands has taken delivery of twelve Stelrad Radiators – a mix of Vita Compact, Silhouette, Deco, Plan and Column radiators – to allow trainees and engineers re-certifying, to fit quality radiator products while they train in the new extended training centre. The centre already had a number of Vita Products in the existing training centre down the road and a heat pump set up with a K3 for the renewable side of the heating business. The centre is owned and managed by Matt Stonehouse and Spencer Bell, the MD of Bell Plumbing based locally. Matt says the Stelrad radiators are an important part of the systems their trainees work on: “It’s important that we have quality components to use in our courses and we’re grateful to Stelrad for giving us this selection of radiators to add to our portfolio of products that trainees and engineers will run into once they are out working at the sharp end of heating systems up and down the country.” Head of Marketing at Stelrad, Chris Harvey says working closely with training centres is an important part of the company’s role in the UK heating sector: “We’re happy to see trainees and engineers getting used to working with our radiators at this stage of their careers and it’s an important part of developing a working relationship with a wider group of installers.” FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE ELEMENTS TRAINING AND ASSESSMENT CENTRE VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF050

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CUE THE ‘MOSAIC’ Marmox is promising infinite design opportunities for its Slicedstone Mosaics. Professional Builder puts the questions to the manufacturer.

of adhesive and grout residue after application.

Where does the Slicedstone range fit into the current Marmox portfolio and what is its appeal? Marmox (M) Thanks to products like our waterproof Multiboards, and the highly adaptable Showerlay membrane, Marmox has long been synonymous with quality bathroom and wetroom solutions. The Slicedstone range offers reliability coupled with visual appeal across a range of residential and commercial settings, including bathrooms and wetrooms, sports and leisure complexes, spas & wellness centres – and recently, even a dog grooming parlour in Kent.

The material certainly looks like a twenty-first century nod to the mosaics of the ancient Romans, but we understand there’s some very modern manufacturing processes at play, and advances in ease of use? M The tiles are laser-cut from beautiful Indian sedimentary rock, backed with a decoupling waterproof membrane, ensuring the individual tiles are precisely spaced at 3mm for consistent neat grouting. The Slicedstone range is supplied in easy-to-handle rolls, which are 80 per cent faster to install, require 60 per cent less grout and come with a reassuring 10-year guarantee. With a

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choice of ten finishes, the 4mm thick tiles’ faces have been treated with a clear Polycarbonate solution to create a stable surface that is waterproof, stain resistant, UV stable and allows for the easy removal

Tell us more about some of the designs available and what can be achieved on a project? M The palette of stone colours consists of Bronze, Copper, Mars Stone and Sea Stone, Graphite, Autumn Leaf and Beige, as well as Slate, Lava Stone and Slate Lava Stone. Installers can select from 25 x 25mm or 50 x 50mm; while the lightweight rolls measure 500 x 1,000mm or the installer can opt for 300mm square sheets, all of which adds up to considerable freedom of design expression. The sizes can also be mixed or matched, the colourways the same, and the mosaics can be applied to walls, ceilings, floors, and shelving. Additionally, the tiling can be applied over all flooring substrates, including across underfloor heating. In addition, the riven finish of the stone means that it can be used for non-slip steps, on shower floors – and flooring more generally.

How about support for an installer from the manufacturer? M For the specifier or specialist subcontractor seeking guidance around installation and site preparation, Marmox can provide a full technical backup service, which can stretch from simple design ideas and tips on preparing the substrate, to extensive on-site support and guidance for both the residential and commercial sectors. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON MARMOX SLICEDSTONE MOSAICS VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF051

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THINK Sika Everbuild has the solutions to make wet rooms perfectly watertight

et rooms have become a popular alternative to traditional bathroom layouts and are frequently seen in hotels and domestic settings alike. As Andrew Scanlon, Applications Manager from Sika Everbuild explains, it’s essential to cover all bases to make sure the floor and walls are completely watertight and using products that are specifically formulated for a more demanding wet room environment will mean they remain pristine even with daily use. Wet rooms provide a more inclusive showering space, making them ideal for those with mobility issues. They also create a feeling of luxury and can be an effective way to maximise space, especially in a relatively small bathroom area. But whatever the reason your customer has opted for a wet room over a traditional free-standing shower cubicle, it is absolutely essential to achieve a totally watertight seal behind all tiled areas as failure to do so will almost certainly lead to water leakage and a whole load of problems later down the line.

Tanking – Three steps to success Tanking is an effective way of preventing water ingress by creating a completely impermeable waterproof barrier on an internal wall. In fact, the word ‘tanking’ comes from the idea that the seal creates a waterproof tank-like barrier around the room. If you think of it in these terms, you’ll see just how much care and attention you need to pay to this process. When it comes to wet room installation, tanking is the only way to fully prepare the walls and floor prior to tiling to make sure a complete watertight barrier is created between the surface and the floor – so that no leaks get through. The first step is to apply a tanking

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TANKING primer by brush to all porous and semi porous surfaces in the areas that are to be waterproofed. For extremely porous surfaces, you’ll need to apply a second coat once the first has completely dried. Next, you’ll need to apply tanking tape carefully to all corner joints, board joints and pipe penetrations. The idea here is to create a watertight seal that accommodates multi-directional movement so take your time to make sure the tape is pressed down and has adhered properly everywhere. Once the tape is in place, a drain mat capable of coping with board movement needs to be installed around the drain outlet. The drain is the area most susceptible to water leaks so special care must be taken here to make sure there is no room for failure in the future. By now you’re on the home straight and the last step is to apply a tanking

membrane. Sika Everbuild’s Aquaseal Tanking Membrane is ready-to-use and can be easily applied by brush. It is recommended that you take time to apply two coats and that the second coat is applied at a right angle to the first as this creates a permanently flexible watertight membrane. Non-hazardous, Aquaseal Tanking Membrane is quick drying and tiling can begin after 12 hours – so it won’t hold things up. Sika Everbuild offers a complete tanking solution, its Aquaseal Tanking Kit, which is available in two sizes and is designed to make the tanking process quick and easy, with just three steps. When used correctly, it creates a permanently flexible watertight membrane which can then be tiled over and is also compatible with underfloor heating systems, which are often specified in wet room environments.

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On the tiles Tiles are a key part of wet room design and can lift the space from being purely functional to being a stylish design feature. As well as making sure you incorporate a subtle slope to allow for drainage, you’ll also need to consider which adhesives and grouts to use. With underfloor heating a common addition to wet rooms, allowing floor areas to dry out quickly, choosing an adhesive which is strong enough to hold even when immersed in water and flexible enough to withstand changes of temperature is a must. Without this flexibility, the adhesive may crack over

time which would make the floor uneven and could potentially cause tiles to break, especially when any weight or pressure is applied. TileSet 711 Flexiplus S1 from Everbuild, which sets in just three hours, is fully waterproof and will adhere to a range of tiles including large format ceramic and porcelain tiles. Bathrooms and wet rooms are also subject to a lot of moisture in the air which, when coupled with the warm atmosphere, makes for perfect conditions for mould growth. Opting for tile adhesives, grout products and sealants which are formulated to resist mould growth and withstand harsh cleaning chemicals, will

ensure a long-lasting finish as well as reducing the cleaning burden in future. With a wide range of sealants, adhesives, mortars and tiling grouts specifically suited to a wet room environment, your project will stand up to the pressures of daily use and look as good as new for years to come. TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT SIKA EVERBUILD’S RANGE OF PRODUCTS FOR TANKING VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF052

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THE TRADESHOW BUILT FOR THE TRADE PROFESSIONAL BUILDER

TOOLFAIR

POWER TOOLS

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HAND TOOLS

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BUILDING EQUIPMENT

All the latest tools, live demos, show specials – all under one roof! FORTHCOMING SHOWS: ALEXANDRA PALACE, LONDON 29TH/30TH MARCH 2022 YEC, HARROGATE 28TH/29TH APRIL 2022 ICC, WALES 17TH/18TH MAY 2022

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A SMALL LEAK WILL SINK A GREAT SHIP! RWC has introduced a new system to protect properties and projects from costly water damage

ver £930 million water damage claims are paid out every year in the UK alongside substantial costs incurred by specifiers and contractors. Not only is this an expensive issue it can be incredibly damaging as the potential water loss from a burst pipe can be as much as 400 litres per hour. Beyond the obvious damage to ceilings, walls, floors and equipment, water damage can result in long project delays and penalties, as well as costly remediation work. With 43 per cent of UK homes experiencing a leak, and 75 per cent of those occurring in flats and apartments, solutions that protect properties from costly water damage are essential. The Reliance Valves MultiSafe Leak Detection System works by identifying leaks early to prevent water damage. It sends an alert when a leak is detected, and automatically shuts off the water supply. The system also monitors water usage and patterns, identifying potential areas for conservation, and can be connected with multiple devices on the same WiFi network to centrally control several devices in large buildings or apartments. Mike Riseley, UK Sales Director at RWC comments: “From dripping taps to burst pipes and leaky plumbing connections behind the wall or in building voids, there are many ways water can escape within buildings. The cost of water damage quickly adds up, especially when defects go undetected and are often only noticed

when it is too late. Our new MultiSafe Leak Detection System from Reliance Valves offers specifiers, contractors and homeowners peace of mind with real-time leak detection, and critically, the ability to stop leaks in their tracks.” With both leak detection and water monitoring, MultiSafe helps to earn BREEAM points, making it an attractive eco-friendly property investment. Mike continues: “The WRAS-approved system has been designed with ease of installation in mind, with MBSP union connections. It should be installed on the main cold-water line, before branches to appliances and after any other control valves. The system can be combined with the MultiSafe Floor Leak Sensor for ultimate leak detection in high-risk areas, or used as an independent solution. When in combination

ABOUT RWC Reliance Worldwide Corporation (RWC) is a family of brands that cover plumbing and heating, smart homes, and specialist industries, including push-fit systems. For further information on RWC visit WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF053

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KEEPING A LOW PROFILE RWC has launched a new underfloor heating (UFH) solution to complement its existing JG Underfloor heating range – JG LowFit As low carbon heating systems begin replacing traditional gas boiler alternatives, RWC’s JG LowFit is designed to benefit both new build and retrofit projects. The solution keeps the overall floor level to a minimum through low-profile panelling options, ranging from 16mm-20mm in thickness. “Our new collection of products offers installers a convenient and unobtrusive UFH solution to work with the sensor the system can monitor the floor for wet areas alerting when water is detected. The sensor can also measure room temperature and notify when it drops enough to cause pipes to freeze and burst, while also monitoring humidity levels to prevent mould.”

alongside alternative heating technologies, such as heat pumps, without compromising on performance,” explains Mike Riseley. Acknowledging the importance of retrofit projects, the LowFit foil and mesh panels have been specifically designed to be placed over existing timber or concrete flooring. This means installers avoid the need to spend time prising up the build’s flooring and adding unnecessary costs to the project. The full panelling options are suitable for screed, non-screed, tiled and existing concrete floors, suiting almost any type of installation. The 12mm JG For further peace of mind and user friendliness, the system can be controlled using RWC’s free app, where instant alerts can be set up, real-time insights can be viewed, such as water usage, and settings can be adjusted using home and away modes.

LowFit Layflat Barrier Polybutylene Pipe offers great flexibility when laying and it includes an inner barrier to prevent the ingress of oxygen molecules, which helps reduce corrosion on metal parts within the system. FOR MORE INFORMATION ON RWC’S NEW JG LOWFIT RANGE VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF054

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON RWC’S RELIANCE VALVES MULTISAFE LEAK DETECTION SYSTEM VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF055

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Y T R A SUPPLIESP Alex Burgess, National Sales Manager at Supplies4Heat, explores the current trends and how professionals can optimise heating solutions

adiator choice must of course, offer the functionality and performance to meet the heating requirements of the room, but with more focus on the impact that radiators can have in interior spaces, designer models that connect with design and property trends are rising in popularity. This presents an opportunity to upsell and add value to projects, as well as pleasing customers with statement radiators that offer wow factor and generate positive word of mouth. There are several trends we are experiencing at Supplies4Heat to be aware of, so you can make the best recommendations and specifications for your customers:

Dramatic times With interiors now incorporating more colour, the use of black appliances and features can offer a neutral backdrop to complement any palette, add depth or blend with an already dark and dramatic interior. Black is a classic design colour and we continue to see high volumes of

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radiators and towel rails requested in this hue, particularly with a matt finish. Matt black evokes a sophisticated, luxury feel and can happily sit alongside other materials such as metallics, wood and stone, making it an ideal choice for modern, layered spaces and spa-like bathrooms.

For customers looking for a softer alternative to black, Anthracite and dark to mid-tone greys such as Grey Olive and Traffic Grey are also a popular choice for our column radiators and towel rails, and can elevate the ordinary flat panel beyond conventional white.

Modern column What was once perceived as a style limited to stately homes, period properties and old public buildings, column radiators are enjoying a surge of interest thanks to the character they bring to any interior. Steel column radiators achieve the nostalgic aesthetic of the column style traditionally associated with cast iron by using a lighter material, so they can be applied in any home – new and old. For example, the Cornel Range is one of our

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most popular collections thanks to its versatility and visual appeal. With leading manufacturers offering a wide choice of widths, columns and heights coupled with different colour finishes and textures, steel column radiators can be customised to present a really unique solution to match every interior and design brief.

Sustainability Sustainability and environmental impact are emerging decisionmaking influences. Here, radiators manufactured from aluminium tick a number of sustainability boxes to make your customers aware of: Aluminium is classed as a ‘superconductor’ and uses lower water content than its steel or cast-iron counterparts, meaning it heats up incredibly quickly and responds rapidly to thermostatic changes. As a result, less demand is placed on the boiler or heat source, which means less energy is used. Furthermore, aluminium works well with low water temperatures, making it a great match for renewable heating sources such as solar or ground source heat pumps, and it is fully recyclable at the end of its useful life.

Small spaces With new rooms and living spaces being fabricated out of the smallest corners of homes and gardens, largely driven by working from home and lockdown measures, heating solutions literally need to measure up when wall space is at a premium. We are experiencing a significant increase in orders for models that are suitable for such spaces and slimline and tall, vertical models can offer more flexibility in these scenarios without compromising on heat performance. The Beaufort Slim for example, is a space saving vertical radiator with an installed projection of just 79mm – 89mm from the wall for single formats. When finished in a colourful shade, vertical radiators can also add a significant style statement to the room. This format works brilliantly for design schemes where colour is being used to create an interesting focal point or accent. Ultimately, with any recommendation, radiators must be able to meet the heat requirements of the room with the correct BTU. To provide this reassurance, radiators and towel rails must be UKCA approved and certified to BS EN442 by an accredited laboratory that takes part in the RADMAC scheme. Part of the IRSAP Group and a member of MARC (an industry body formed to ensure that best practice is followed at all times with radiator products), all Supplies4Heat products are fully certified and backed with comprehensive guarantees. Its range of designer radiators, towel rails, valves and accessories are available from builders’ merchants nationwide. FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT SUPPLIES4HEAT VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF056

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plumbing, bathrooms & wetrooms product round-up

HOT WATER TAP

The Abode Pronteau ProTrad steaming hot water tap is available in both 3 IN 1 and 4 IN 1 variants offering 75 – 98° instant filtered steaming hot water, as well as your regular hot and cold functions. The hot water temperature is set via the PROBOIL.2X under sink intelligent hot water boiler. The ProTrad 4 IN 1 also provides fresh filtered cold water. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF057

THERMAL BALANCING VALVES (TBVS)

RWC has developed a range of Thermal Balancing Valves (TBVs) from Reliance Valves that reduce the flow of hot water from the boiler as the system temperature increases. If the water reaches 70°C, a bypass port is opened within the valve to allow an increased flow rate throughout the circuit to disinfect the system. They are also easy to set, install, and service. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF058

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TOILET

Available in both wall-hung and backto-wall models, the VitrA V-Care Prime shower toilet can be controlled via an app or through the hand-held remote-control unit. Additional intelligent features include sensor ambient lighting, adjustable drying, multi-washing function and auto air purification. VitrA V-Care Smart Panel uses digital sensor technology for what is described as the most hygienic and efficient WC flush available. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF059

SINKS

There’s two ‘SofTexture’ PVD finishes – Polished Brass and Polished Titanium – in the FlexLinea stainlesssteel sinks offering from PJH. In addition, installers can specify colour coordinating kitchen mixer taps to team with the sinks. Thanks to a triple mount installation option under-mount, top mount or flush mount are all possible. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF060

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GENERAL BUILDING TOOLS & EQUIPMENT BLUE ROOF ATTENUATION SYSTEM

A unique patented design allows the ACO Building Drainage blue roof attenuation system to operate independently of the roof’s waterproofing and drainage system. The attenuation tank sits above a structural drainage layer which allows controlled drainage of rainwater on all roof types during design rainfall conditions. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF065

The Festool range of cordless drills includes the Quadrive TDC 18/4, the new Quadrive TPC 18/4 percussion drill and the BHC 18 cordless hammer drill. Across the range, the CENTROTEC tool chuck and bit holder halves the size and makes it 80 per cent lighter than comparable chucks. It fits all the manufacturer’s cordless drills and cordless percussion drills with the FastFix interface, enabling users to change tools in a matter of seconds. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF061

VEHICLE SECURITY

EASYGROUT RANGE

The addition of Blanco brings the Azpects EASYGrout family of colours to four, including Grafito, Argent and Crema. The shades have been developed to complement the trending colours of porcelain tiles. The material itself is a high-quality slurry grout for ceramic and porcelain paving and floor tiles. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF066

CLADDING

The recently launched James Latham, Finish Line Collection cladding range has received two British Woodworking Federation (BWF) Awards 2021. The Accoya wood cladding arrives on-site factory finished, front, back and ends, in a selection of 12 unique colours, effectively encapsulating the timber in a breathable envelope. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF067

LVT

The new Heritage Oaks in the Amtico Spacia Woods LVT planks collection are described as having authentic textures, a worn, aged finish and rustic sawn mark details. There’s four colourways on offer – Malthouse Oak, Forge Oak, Granary Oak and Carriage Oak. Spacia products can be specified in over 90 designs with Acoustic backing or 36+ enhanced slip resistance finish. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF068 Use our digital reader enquiry service for further information online

CORDLESS DRLLS

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The ULTILock Hooklock from Van Guard Accessories has already attained Gold Standard Sold Secure status and is the only van hooklock on the UK market to have attained this. It has also achieved Police Preferred Specification status with the Secured by Design product accreditation. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF062

HAND FLOAT

The Marshalltown Magnesium Hand Float is designed for levelling and smoothing concrete surfaces. The cast magnesium blade is durable, lightweight and 3⅛” wide, opening the pores of fresh concrete to allow for evaporation of bleed water. It is fitted with the manufacturer’s patented DuraSoft handle which is tough but gives a soft feel, even over prolonged periods. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF063

WORKING CLOTHES

It’s the 37.5® Technology fabric in Snickers Workwear’s LITEWork clothing which makes them quick drying, as well as providing UPF 40+sun protection. There’s new Trousers, Shirts, Shorts, and Jackets and a High-Vis range to choose from with new styles and stretch features, plus trousers that feature the bio-based Sorona fibre. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF064 Use our digital reader enquiry service for further information online

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INSULATION

THE REGULATION ANSWER Kingspan explains how you can get ready for the new Part L Building Regulations

his year, England, Wales and Scotland are all introducing tougher energy efficiency requirements in their Building Regulations and Standards. These changes mean buildings will typically need to be insulated to a higher level. Installers in England and Wales will also need to fill out new compliance reports to prove that what you install matches up with the specification to help reduce the performance gap. To give a taste of these changes, let’s take a look at the expected requirements for new homes.

will need to be 31 per cent lower than under current standards in England, 37 per cent lower in Wales and either 32 per cent or 57 per cent lower in Scotland (depending on the outcome of the consultation). The countries are also adding new energy performance targets designed to limit overall demand. These targets can be offset with any power generated from onsite renewables, so PV roof panels may become a more common

Element type

Key changes In England, the revised version of Part L to the Building Regulations has already been published. Wales and Scotland are due to publish updates to their own Building Regulations and Standards this Spring, but we have a good idea of what they’re likely to include from the consultations they ran last year. Carbon emissions from new homes

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Worst case U-values (area weighted) W/m2K England Wales Scotland Part L1 2021 Part L1 2021 Section 6 2021 – Option 1

All roof types 0.16 Walls 0.26 Floors Party walls Windows Doors

part of new builds. The regulations also look to ensure that new homes are insulated to a high level. All three countries are significantly tightening the worst-case U-values that new projects have to meet (shown in the table below). The U-value is the thermal performance of a building element. The lower the U-value, the better insulated the construction needs to be. Keep in mind that these are the worst possible values.

0.18 0.20 1.60 1.60

0.13 0.21 (flats); 0.18 (houses) 0.15 0.20 1.40 1.40

Scotland Section 6 2021 – Option 2

0.12 0.17

0.11 0.16

0.15 0.00 1.40 1.40

0.13 0.00 1.20 1.20

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reasonable depth. Phenolic insulation boards typically have the lowest thermal conductivity of any commonly used insulation material.

Proving compliance

To be compliant, most homes will need to reach even lower U-values. England also has a Fabric Energy Efficiency Standard (FEES) which sets the maximum heating/cooling demand for a building. The FEES target is calculated based on the Notional Dwelling specification (shown below) and is affected only by the U-values, thermal bridging values and airtightness of the property. This simply means that a good level of fabric performance is going to be essential for compliance. The Notional Dwellings below give a good idea of what a compliant home may Element type

All roof types (W/m2K) Walls (W/m2K) Floors (W/m2K) Party wall (W/m2K) Windows (W/m2K) Doors (W/m2K) Thermal bridging Air permeability Ventilation

Heating appliance Heat emitters Waste Water Heat Recovery (WWHR) Photovoltaics (PV)

2021 Notional Building in England and Wales 0.11

look like in each region when using a gas boiler. The Scottish notional building options also include a heat pump notional package for each option, with the same fabric levels, but with no PV or WWHR where used. These demanding U-values mean that the lambda value (thermal conductivity) of the insulation you use will be important. The lower this value is, the better the material is at stopping heat loss. This means you can often use a slimmer thickness of insulation to hit your target Uvalue, helping to keep constructions to a 2021 Notional Building Scotland - Option 1 0.09

2021 Notional Building Scotland - Option 2 0.09

0.18 0.15 0.13 0.13 0.12 0.10 0.00 0.00 0.00 1.20 1.20 0.80 1.00 1.20 1.00 Y=0.20 or individual worst case junction psi-values 5.00 5.00 3.00 m³/m²/Hr@50Pa. m³/m²/Hr@50Pa. m³/m²/Hr@50Pa. Natural with Natural with Mechanical extract fans extract fans Ventilation Heat Recovery 89.5% gas boiler – new systems must meet 92% Design flow temperature = 55°C Yes 40% of ground floor area / 6.5

In addition to these targets, the new regulations are also looking to reduce heat loss from thermal bridges. These are areas where materials which are better conductors of heat than the insulation layer are allowed to form a ‘bridge’ between the inner and outer face of a construction – effectively acting as a fasttrack for heat to escape. They commonly occur where there are gaps or inconsistencies in the insulation layer, such as junctions around windows and doors or between the walls, floor and roof. In England and Wales, installers are going to need to take pictures of any measures they install before they are covered up. These will be included in new compliance reports which will be checked by Building Control to confirm that the insulation products you have fitted, and the way they are installed, match with the specification and detailing. Keep in mind that even insulation products which look similar on the shelf can have very different lambda values. This means substituting one product for another may lead to the building being deemed non-compliant.

Deadline approaching The new version of Part L in England is due to come into force for all buildings from June 15th, and the updates are expected to be fully in force in all regions by the end of the year, so it is important to keep an eye on these changes and ensure your work meets all the new requirements, including improved thermal performance. FOR MORE INFORMATION ON KINGSPAN INSULATION VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF069

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POCKET DOORS

LINE YOUR POCKET Eclisse explains how to install a timber door for a Classic Single Pocket Door System

n the January edition of Professional Builder we showed you how to assemble and install an Eclisse Classic Pocket Door frame. Typically, the pocket door frame is installed and plaster boarded at first fix and then the door and jambs installed at second fix, although it is possible to install your door before plaster boarding before fitting the jambs.

Glass or Timber Door? Eclisse UK sell a variety of pocket door frames that suit a wide range of standard UK door sizes, so you have the flexibility to use your own choice of door panel to match other doors in the property. The company doesn’t supply timber doors but does supply Glass Pocket Doors with a vast choice of beautiful plain and patterned and even hand painted glass doors. The pocket door frame is the same whether you are installing a timber door or a glass door. What is different is the hanging gear for attaching the rollers to the door, the shape of the door guide and the jamb kit.

Hanging the door couldn’t be simpler

Top Tip: If you have forgotten to install your frame at finished floor level using packers to estimate the correct height you may be able to use the adjustment available or a combination of planing the bottom of the door and the adjustment available to make your door fit.

This guide will focus on installing a timber door for a Classic Single Pocket Door System A pocket door frame allows the door to be top hung and to slide back and disappear into a pocket in the wall. The frame and kit box comes in one box and the jambs come in a second box. Top Tip: The kit box containing all the parts for hanging the door, and the antiwarp under door profile that sits in a routed channel underneath the door, all come with the frame in the same box. So, if there is going to be a time delay between fitting the frame and then fitting the door it is worthwhile storing the kit box with the hanging gear and the under-door profile inside the pocket until you are ready to hang the door.

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the runners. There is around 10mm adjustment available to allow your door panel to be adjusted to the right height and therefore run smoothly.

Smooth running even if the door warps The runners are assembled with the bolts and washers as shown and slot into the overhead track. The door brackets are attached to the doors with the screws supplied, either 120mm from the leading and trailing edge of the door for a single door or 120mm from the trailing edge and 140mm from the leading edge for double doors. You can then hook the door brackets onto the bolts suspended from

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sliding it back to adjust how far your door protrudes or even to make it flush with your jamb kit. This can be done before you install the track, once the track is installed before you have plasterboarded the frame or even after the pocket door has been fully installed because Eclisse has a patented extractable track that allows you to extract the track without ever having to break into the wall. Top Tip: Don’t forget to install the metal anti-warp under door profile. The anti-warp under door profile runs on the spigot on the door guide at the entrance of the pocket. Whilst you can route out a channel to use the system without the anti-warp profile it is better to install it as this will ensure the Eclisse pocket door continues to slide perfectly even if the door does warp. A channel needs to be routed in the underside of the door for the under door profile. Cut the under door profile to 10mm longer than the door width. Route a channel 10 x 17mm into the bottom of the door from the rear of the door to the 5mm from the front edge of the door. Using a small amount of silicon insert the under door profile into the channel. It should protude 15mm at the rear of the door. The combination of the anti-warp under door profile and the self-centering door guide ensures a smooth sliding action of the pocket door. Because the door is top hung there is no threshold strip or runner on the floor and, therefore, no need to interrupt the flooring from one room to another.

Feeling Flush? The rear door stop is set so that your door will protrude 80mm from the pocket. However it is possible to adjust the rear door stop by simply unscrewing it and

Top Tip: When fitting recessed flush pull handles Eclisse recommend the stop be regulated so the door protrudes from the pocket to avoid risk to fingers. It is possible, however, to have a finger pull in the leading edge of the door or a touch latch where you simply push the leading edge of the door and it is released from the pocket.

door with rubber bumpers means the door will close fully. To install the jamb kit place the wooden door post into position and drill four pairs of holes equidistant along its length through the recess for the rubber bumpers and through the metal door post. Countersink these holes and screw the wooden doorpost into place. Detach the rubber bumpers and insert each length into the recesses. Trim the lower position of the vertical pocket jamb to accommodate the door guide and attach to both sides of the pocket entrance using 4 or 5 blobs of silicon. The top horizontal jamb will need to be cut to size. Note the rebate on both ends is used to match the top of each of the vertical pocket jambs. Fix into place using silicon. It’s as simple as that. You can then finish off the pocket door by installing the architrave. This is not supplied with the jamb kit because you will want to match the architrave around the pocket door to the architrave used in the rest of the property.

The specially designed jamb is the key to a professional finish

Top Tip: Attach the top architrave with silicone. This is because if you would like to remove the door, or access the extractable track in the future, it is easier to remove the archtrave without damaging it if it has been attached with silicone rather than pinned in place. A good quality, well designed jamb kit can make all the difference. Eclisse jambs kits are made from timber that is Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified. The design of the jamb kit with the brushes means you will not see the top of the door nor into the pocket and the recessed

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT HOW TO INSTALL ECLISSE POCKET DOORS VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF070

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THE TRADESHOW FOR PROFESSIONAL BUILDERS

Professional

LIVE!

Top trade products, exhibition specials and hands-on demo zones FORTHCOMING SHOWS: ALEXANDRA PALACE, LONDON 29TH/30TH MARCH 2022 YEC, HARROGATE 28TH/29TH APRIL 2022 ICC, WALES 17TH/18TH MAY 2022 Register for free at www.probuilderlive.co.uk

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WALK-ON GLASS

SEEING IS BELIEVING Installers can experience just how easy a TuffX walk-on glass unit is to install thanks to a new YouTube video Since appearing on the market in 2019, TuffX’s Infinity range of rooflights and walk-on glass units has proved hugely popular among homeowners looking for a contemporary, light and airy aesthetic – and also with builders and installers who quickly discovered how easy and fast they are to drop into place. Now anyone can see for themself just how straightforward the renowned hasslefree ‘drop-in and seal’ installation process really is, thanks to a short video that leading toughened glass specialist TuffX has created. Available on YouTube, the video shows the real-life installation – by the

team at Cheshire-based Glass & Stainless – of a pair of fire-rated Infinity walk-on units being slotted into place on site. TuffX is the only company in the UK to manufacture fire-rated walk-on glass floor units that meet the current building standards for fire egress, and the video shows just how simple they are to install for those customers who are looking for that extra something that looks as good as it functions. Infinity walk-on units are available in a range of clear, privacy and anti-slip finishes, making them both a safe and stylish way to increase the natural flow of light throughout interior spaces, including cellars and basements. “There has been a steady growth in customer demand for our Infinity

range since its launch, which is why we’re currently in the process of adding another 30,000ft2 of space to our Knowsley premises to accommodate increased production,” said Paul Higgins, TuffX’s Commercial Director. “With this video we want to show builders and installers exactly how straightforward it is to fit these products which customers love. All Infinity rooflights and walk-on glass floors are delivered to site ready-to-fit, making it quick and easy with no additional assembly required.” TO WATCH THE VIDEO VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF071 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON THE TUFFX RANGE VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF072

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

3rd in a new series

RAISING THE STANDARD Shock horror! The Building Regulations change on June 15th! Quickslide’s Ade issues a timely reminder.

I opened my last column with the comment: ‘Unless you have been living in a cave you will have picked up something about a new set of Building Regulations that are due to become statutory in June this year.” Well, from what I have seen and heard in the past few weeks – including a seminar I attended with a room full of other fabricators – there’s an awful lot more cave dwellers around than I first thought. It seems that somehow the news that a brand-new version of the Building Regulations has escaped an alarming number of contractors and installers. To remind everyone, just in case – the Building Regulations are defined as setting the “…standards for the design and construction of buildings to ensure the safety and health for people, including those with disabilities in or about those buildings and to help conserve fuel and power.” In other words, they are the rules by which every building job in the land is governed. Non-compliance is enforceable under law and can result in fines, which can be severe. Now I apologise if I have patronised you but if you know all about the new Regs, that they

become mandatory from June, there are plenty of others reading this magazine that, apparently, are completely unaware. That is the point I am making… My interest as a window and door manufacturer is just that, of course – windows and doors – and so I will give you a snap-shot of what you need to know on that subject. I covered the section called ‘Document F – Ventilation’ in my last column as it is the most controversial of the new regs, with many up in arms about the insistence that most windows and doors fitted from 15th June must have trickle vents fitted. But there are other changes, not least the thermal performance of windows and doors, which is covered by ‘Document L1A’ and ‘Document L1B’ and before you glaze over (sorry!) completely, it’s relatively straightforward. ‘1A’ covers new homes and, in essence, it means that U values for windows are improved from the current minimum figure of 2.0 W/m2K, to 1.6 W/m2K. However, the Regs encourage beating this by specifying windows as low as 1.0W/m2K, which is a decent step forward in my

ONSITE

WITH

view. Solid residential doors improve by similar figures for the minimum value. ‘1B’ covers existing dwellings and is therefore more likely to affect readers of this magazine. And here I believe that the Government has missed a trick. U values improve from the old figure of 1.6 W/m2K, or Band C under Energy Ratings, by a smidgen to 1.4 W/m2K, or Band B, minimum. Why has the Government missed a trick? Because most window manufacturers produce frames comfortably better than this already and, if we were pushed, most of us could do even better. And thereby hangs a tale: Most jobs will be spec’ed according to the minimums demanded by the Building Regulations and, as I always say, if you use a decent window and door fabricator, and you can trust them to supply you with products that comfortably comply, thus avoiding falling foul of building inspectors. But, with soaring energy prices you can impress your homeowner customers by offering extensions, loft conversions and the like that significantly reduce energy costs. Including the windows and doors, for which the additional cost is minimal. Why not go beyond ‘average’? Your customers will love you for it.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON QUICKSLIDE VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF073

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Tibby Singh — www.TibbySingh.com

WORKWEAR

FLEX APPEAL

Professional Builder’s Tibby Singh is making all the right moves in Snickers Workwear

nickers Workwear needs no introduction but something that does need announcing is the new FlexiWork Trousers with Detachable Holster Pockets (No. 6972). Having worn so many of the company’s trousers – especially from its FlexiWork range – I was particularly intrigued to see what advances there have been. As expected, there are many features on these trousers that have been carried forward from other FlexiWork Trousers, simply because they’re so great, which I’ll run through first. I don’t think I need to confirm how comfortable they are, and they also feel surprisingly thin yet hard wearing, whilst maintaining their flexibility. This is due to the durable ripstop fabric they’re made from, which is a special reinforced material that makes it resistant to tearing and ripping. At the same time, the 4-way stretch panel at the crotch is so flexible it makes you want to dance when nobody’s watching. Snickers Workwear trousers are renowned for their pockets and, just like clamps, you can never have too many, although it might just take you a little longer to find your keys. The crucial feature of the holster pockets concept, is that they’re detachable with zips and

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buttons on either end. I can’t emphasise how much I love this feature because, at the end of a long working day, my holster pockets can have more tools in than my toolbox – and that means I can remove them separately. Another useful and essential feature, is the knee guard system, so you can insert your preferred knee pads from the outside of the trouser leg. Snickers Workwear has used trusted Cordura fabric with reinforcements in all the right places – at the knees, leg ends and pockets. This enhanced durability maintains your dignity whether you’re

bending for skirting or flexing for flooring. If you forget to put your belt on you don’t need to worry about any wardrobe malfunctions as these have an integrated yet detachable hardwearing belt with clip, which is quick and easy to fasten or undo. A new feature is the addition of a zip ventilation system at the inner thighs. It’s like a built-in thermostat that you can control and, depending on the temperature, you can simply open the zips to let air pass through, making them versatile for the good old British weather, as well as the task at hand. Finally, I also noticed that these Snickers Workwear Trousers have been manufactured using Sorona, which is a partially plant-based material. It is known to be high-performance and sustainable, so I’m pleased that Snickers are taking another step towards sustainability and considering eco-efficient textile solutions to minimise the impact we have on the planet. These Snickers FlexiWork Trousers with Detachable Holster Pockets have walked the walk in my eyes, you don’t just look the part, but you feel the part too! FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON SNICKERS WORKWEAR FLEXIWORK TROUSERS WITH DETACHABLE HOLSTER POCKETS VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF074

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2nd IENRIEAS

WORKWEAR

N EW S

TRIED & TESTED Professional Builder sat down with Scruffs to talk about how the company brings a product to market

How do you come up with your design ideas? “Research and lots of it! Our product development team visits trade shows to capture the latest trends in clothing and footwear across workwear, sportwear and fashion. They then work with designers to transform these trends into functional designs with a strong Scruffs identity that our customers will love. Tradespeople give feedback on these designs at focus groups where we make sure the features are useful, the styling is spot on, and the product offers great value for money.”

How long does it take to launch a new product? “It can take up to two years to launch a new design on the Scruffs website, depending on how complex the product is. That includes research, design, and a lot of testing to make sure each product is hard-wearing and looks good too.”

Scruffs launched a womenswear range back in December, tell us more about it. “From our research we knew the range of clothing and footwear for women to

choose from was very limited. The styles, colours, and materials available did not reflect what tradeswomen wanted or needed from their workwear. This is where we hit the ground running, Scruffs started working with real tradeswomen to create a range that met their needs, making sure they stayed comfortable onsite, and their workwear worked as hard as they do. Carefully considered fits, flexible panels and footwear that is made for women all feature in the new range.”

Who do you approach for the wear trials? “To make sure the products meet the high standards expected by tradesmen and women on-site, everything gets tested in a real-life environment. We approach skilled workers from a range of trades to make sure we get as much thorough feedback as possible. This includes indoor and outdoor trades in domestic and commercial settings. Their input is invaluable, giving direct feedback to help guide the product development by testing everything from comfort and fit to function and durability. The more people that trial our workwear the better!”

If a tradesperson wants to be part of a wear trial, how do they apply? “After deciding on the design of the product we work through our list of trade wear triallists to select the right people to test each product. They receive a sample to test and are sent surveys to complete which includes questions about fit, comfort, durability, and useful features. Any tradie who wants to join our wear trial database can contact us on marketing@scruffs.com.”

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON THE RANGE OF WORKWEAR FROM SCRUFFS VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF075

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builders’ vehicles 씱

ASK Do you have a commercial vehicle problem? Honest John Vans has the answers you need.

What’s the best small van for a tall driver? Are there any small vans that have sufficient driver space for someone 6’8” tall? The Citroen Nemo/Peugeot Bipper/Fiat Fiorino will all accommodate a tall driver, while the firm seats provide excellent back and leg support. If you need something larger then I would suggest the latest Vauxhall Combo – it’s very comfortable on a long motorway journey and has lots of head and legroom.

What used, reliable, small van models do you suggest? I want to buy a small van as I’m fed up with always putting the back seats down in my car. It must be reliable and cheap to run. Probably about 8 to 12 years old. What do you suggest? The mk1 Ford Transit Connect would be my recommendation. It’s practical, easy to drive and has a good reputation for reliability. The mk1 was sold from 2002 to 2014, which means there are loads on the used market.

Can you recommend a 4x4 small van? Does anyone produce a 4x4 small van other than the Volkswagen Caddy 4Motion? The Vauxhall Combo is available with four-wheel drive, increased ground clearance and underbody protection. However, unless you really need an off-

Daniel Powell of Honest John Vans

roader, I’d recommend the Peugeot Partner with Grip Control. It won’t give you all-wheel drive, but it does add allterrain tyres and a smart traction control system that will allow the van to navigate wintery roads and light off-road conditions.

Should I get a manufacturer extended warranty? I bought my van from new in 2019, with a three-year warranty, meaning it keeps me on the road if something was to go wrong. I have been quoted £720 by my local dealer for a two-year extension. The van has 28,000 miles on the clock. What are your thoughts and suggestions? I would suggest reading the terms and conditions of the warranty product that’s being offered. What’s included in the policy? And (more importantly) what’s excluded? A warranty product that excludes ‘wear and tear’ will effectively exclude 90 per cent of the things that may go wrong on a van that’s three or four years old. There are lots of independent warranty providers and you may get a cheaper deal or better level of cover with someone else (you can always challenge your local dealer to match it).

Should I buy a high-mileage Ford Transit Custom? I am looking to buy a van and was wondering if mileage matters as much as it does with cars? I’m looking to buy a 2016 Ford Transit Custom with 155,000 miles on the clock. The Ford Transit Custom is a great van. And there are lots of high-mileage examples for sale. But the key to getting a good one is found in the vehicle’s history. A reputable dealer or private seller should have a folder filled with paper receipts for all servicing, recall work and maintenance jobs. If they don’t (or if there are big gaps in the van’s history) they are probably trying to hide something.

Do you have a van question that you can’t find the answer to? Email pb@hamerville.co.uk with your question and Honest John Vans will provide you with the answer.

Honest John Vans is the website that champions fairness for van owners by publishing expert, unbiased information to help builders make informed choices about their vehicles.

FOR MORE VAN BUYING ADVICE, VISIT: WWW.HONESTJOHN.CO.UK/VANS OR TYPE “HONEST JOHN VANS” INTO YOUR ONLINE SEARCH ENGINE OR VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF076

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builders’ vehicles he end of the pandemic as we know it? Well, let’s just say there’s more than a sporting chance if the Professional Builder car park is anything to go by these past couple of weeks. Starved of van testing opportunities for obvious reasons since March 2020, we are right back in the game, with Volkswagen loaning us not one but three of its top-of-the-range light commercial vehicle offerings. First up, the distinctly eye catching – and, in terms of price, some may say eye watering – new Transporter 6.1 Sportline T32 version. Volkswagen Audi Group (VAG) has been making the Transporter for more than seven decades, and we have driven a fair few incarnations over the years, but nothing has come close to the latest offering in terms of technical sophistication, on the road driver assistance, all round style and comfort.

Good sports!

74 APRIL 2022 PROFESSIONAL BUILDER

But, then again, at an on-the-road price of £55,000 including VAT you have a right to expect an awful lot for your hardearned cash. That’s as much as £20,000 on top of what you would expect to pay for a basic new 6.1 Transporter so what exactly are you getting to make it stand out from the crowd? Well, for starters, 0-62mph in a fraction under nine seconds, and a projected top speed of 126mph from a 2litre TDI biturbo common rail, direct injection powertrain will clearly capture the imagination of those who like to revel in the ‘wolf in sheep’s clothing’ approach to traffic lights. And, talking of running gear, there is a seven speed dual clutch gearbox, front wheel drive McPherson type strut front suspension and independent rear suspension, with coil springs and load sensitive shock

It may be in its eighth decade but the Volkswagen Transporter can still give the opposition more than a run for its money, especially on sports day!

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absorbers linked to 18in. Sportline gloss black alloy wheels. The full on Sportline body kit features an enhanced front bumper, including lower front diffuser, illuminated side chrome side bars and Nappa leather and Alcantara with red contrast stitching front seats. Our particular test vehicle came in an attractive Ravenna Blue metallic titanium black colour and trim with a go faster front-end red stripe. As the show-pony of its award-winning workhorse line up, VAG has obviously thrown everything at the Sportline in terms of technical features and enhancements to make the driving experience as superior as possible. There’s an anti-theft alarm system, 8in. navigation touchscreen, foldable door mirrors, heated seats, fog lights, parking sensors and rear-view cameras to name but a few. Payload is a healthy 1,165kg accessed through a rear tailgate and you can expect around 37mpg. There’s also a three-year warranty and 12 years for body protection, plus three-year breakdown assistance.

Extensive range All that clearly takes it well beyond the budget of most tradespeople, but you can enter the market for a new Transporter 6.1 for considerably less and add bits to it which you think you will need on a daily basis. These can quickly add up, but such is the highly competitive nature of the commercial vehicle van market these days the standard equipment supplied on a new Transporter 6.1 Sportline is more than adequate for most businesses and will come in at around £32,0000. Expect

“As the show pony of its award-winning workhorse line up, Volkswagen Audi Group (VAG) has obviously thrown everything at the Sportline in terms of technical features and enhancements to make the driving experience as superior as possible.”

to pay around £35,000 for the bigger proportioned Highline version. Top of the range vehicles like the Sportline are all about aspirations and play to the popular lifestyle image of combining work with play. Most builders we know would probably baulk at taking on such a vehicle simply because of the anxiety levels implicit in keeping it in pristine condition. The temptation to cram it full of heavy-duty materials and equipment during the working week would prove too much of a temptation and weekends would invariably be spent

washing it down. Some, of course, simply don’t want to appear over flash to their potential customer base and prefer to fit the stereotype of most builders’ vans. For these reasons, sales of the Sportline version are likely to be relatively modest but, as we all know, the playing field is never level and there will always be winners and losers when it comes to sport. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON THE TRANSPORTER 6.1 SPORTLINE VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF077

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vehicles & plant product round-up

PICK-UP

BATTERY ELECTRIC MINI EXCAVATOR

The CASE Construction Equipment CX15 EV is a 1.3t mini excavator powered by a 16kW electric motor and 21.5kWh lithium-ion battery. It features retractable tracks that gets machine width down to 790mm for going through doors and working in confined spaces. It can also work very close to structures and obstacles with a minimum swing radius design. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF078

RANGER

Developed by Ford Performance, the Next-Gen Ranger Raptor derivative of the Ford Ranger benefits from a twin-turbo 3.0-litre EcoBoost V6 petrol engine producing 288PS and 491Nm of torque. In addition, a unique chassis and suspension upgrades ensures the vehicle can handle punishing off-road conditions. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF079

E-TRANSIT

The all-electric Ford ETransit’s suite of driver assistance systems has earned the commercial vehicle a Gold Award from independent vehicle safety authority Euro NCAP. The technologies include autonomous emergency braking when approaching vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians, as well as lane keeping technology, traffic sign recognition and occupant monitoring systems. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF096

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

sales@pnupoint.co.uk

76 APRIL 2022 PROFESSIONAL BUILDER

The latest Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Amarok will be launched in 2022 with a whole host of new features, including driver assistance systems. Still powered by a V6-TDI engine, the exterior has been redefined, and interior comfort enhanced, whilst the manufacturer promises plenty of towing power and torque. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF080

VEHICLE ACCESSORIES

The popular rear step parking sensor integration product, Connect+®, from Rhino Products is now available for the Renault Master and Vauxhall Vivaro platforms. The system integrates each OEM sensor into the step via a simple ‘plug and play’ cable. The vans sensors then work as normal, with the added reassurance that the step at the rear of the vehicle is also protected when reversing. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF081

MONEY-SAVING FUEL CARD

In response to rising fuel prices, UK Fuels has launched the Fleetone fuel card, giving guaranteed discounts of up to 10 pence per litre on both diesel and unleaded. With access to the UK’s largest independent fuel card network of more than 4,100 fuel stations, the card is accepted at more than 80 per cent of supermarket fuel stations and over 70 per cent of motorway fuel stations. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF097

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INSULATION

No.8

GREEN GABLES! Sound advice from Knauf Insulation helps to create quieter, warmer homes at The Gables The brief

NEW

SERIES Previous columns have looked at how the versatility of Mineral Wool insulation adds to the thermal and acoustic performance as well as the fire safety of a home. This month, Bradley Hirst, Technical Services Manager from Knauf Insulation, looks at how one project utilised these benefits across several applications to not just meet, but exceed the Building Regulations.

When Formby Point Construction needed insulation for The Gables, a select development of new homes in Crosby, Liverpool, they had several objectives. Firstly, the company wanted to go beyond the thermal and acoustic requirements outlined in the Building Regulations. Secondly, with applications across multiple construction types, it wanted to use one insulation manufacturer to specify the correct product for each application and ensure installer wellbeing. So, Formby Point Construction, consulted Knauf Insulation’s Technical Support Team for advice.

The solution For the separating floor applications, Knauf Insulation recommended OmniFit Roll 40, a versatile, Glass Mineral Wool insulation that provides both thermal and acoustic performance. There was also a recommendation for DriTherm Cavity Slab 32 for the masonry cavity external walls, Masonry Party Wall Slab for separating walls to comply with Document E and Knauf Loft Roll for the insulation in the loft. Formby Point Construction also decided to install the company’s Acoustic Roll within the stud walls between all rooms, going above the minimum standard required between bathrooms and bedrooms outlined in document E. In addition to providing thermal and acoustic performance, these products are all non-combustible so will not contribute to the development or spread of fire should it occur.

Installer wellbeing As well as considering the comfort of the homeowner, Formby Point Construction considers the welfare of its installers as part of its decision making. Knauf Insulation scored highly on this aspect thanks to ECOSE Technology,with its unique bio-based binder containing no added formaldehyde or phenol. Products made with this technology are soft to touch and easy to handle. They generate low levels of dust and VOCs and have been awarded the Eurofins Gold Certificate for Indoor Air Comfort. Thanks to Formby Point Construction’s commitment to going above and beyond the regulations, and Knauf Insulation’s high performance Glass Mineral Wool insulation, homeowners at The Gables will enjoy quieter, safer, warmer homes.

TO FIND THE RIGHT MINERAL WOOL PRODUCT FOR YOUR APPLICATION, DOWNLOAD THE NEW KNAUF INSULATION SOLUTIONS GUIDE AT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF082

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TECHNICAL TEAM TIPS – NO 35

The countdown to Part L has well and truly begun. There’s never been a better time to assess what the changes will mean for your business, including not only what to watch out for but also how to maximise your opportunities for long-term gain, so says Sam Tebbs, Training Manager at Marley. Sam said: ‘Successful outcomes are usually borne out of thorough preparation, and the roofing industry is no different. Whilst Part L will inevitably demand changes to working practises, roofing contractors that have taken the trouble to research, prepare and adapt their businesses to embrace the changes, will find themselves ahead of the game.

What Part L means for you ‘The Part L Building Regulation, implemented on June 15th, covers the ‘Conservation of Fuel and Power’ regarding both new construction projects and some refurbishment work, for dwellings and other buildings in England. Put simply, it means that developers will be required to ensure that the buildings they produce meet the Government’s stringent energy targets – that new homes produce 31 per cent less carbon emissions than at present. As such, they will be demanding both the high-quality products, such as solar photovoltaics (PV) systems, as well as the skilled workforce required to fit them, to enable these ambitious targets to be met. Crucially, with the demand for solar energy likely to drastically increase, roofing contractors who acquire the relevant product knowledge and installation skills now, will secure a real competitive advantage for themselves.’

Train to gain Taking the lead, Marley has developed a free and comprehensive series of specially-tailored webinars to provide

roofing contractors with invaluable information not only on Part L but also the very real benefits of solar energy, focussing on Marley SolarTile, as well as the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) which covers installations of solar PV systems. Sam said: ‘The brand new ‘Introduction to Part L and solar roofing’ webinars aim to walk roofing contractors through six essential aspects of the new developments: 쎲 Understanding Part L 쎲 How Part L affects YOUR business 쎲 The future is solar roofing 쎲 How solar (PV) works 쎲 What MCS accreditation means for YOU 쎲 Installing Marley SolarTile There are currently three dates planned for the webinar: 쎲 Wednesday 23rd March 쎲 Wednesday 27th April 쎲 Wednesday 25th May with more planned in the coming months. Available to anyone within the construction and roofing industry, for further details and to book your space, visit: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF083

Marley SolarTile – the future is here Marley’s integrated SolarTile is compatible with all clay and concrete tiles and slates, so solar PV can easily be incorporated into any roof design. Supplied as a complete kit, all components, such as adhesive flashing and fireproofing materials are included and, featuring double fixing to battens

and trusses, there’s no need for counter battens so there’s no extra material costs. Coming in colour-coded boxes for ease of installation, the patented pushtogether design means that installation times of less than one hour per kilowatt peak can be achieved. Sam said: ‘In addition, for roofing contractors purchasing the full Marley SolarTile system, Marley is offering invaluable on-site installation training (for the first installation) to ensure customers maximise the opportunity presented by solar energy. Upon purchase, simply contact us to organise a date for one of our team to assist with your first on-site installation.’ FOR ADVICE AND FURTHER DETAILS ON PART L OR MARLEY’S SOLARTILE SYSTEM, OR TO BOOK INTO ONE OF THE FORTHCOMING WEBINARS PLEASE VISIT WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF084

PROFESSIONAL BUILDER APRIL 2022 79

ROOFING

NO TRAIN NO GAIN

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Professional

BUILDER’S

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

! L L A R O F E E FR 5

X TAPE MEASURE PRIZE BUNDLES (INCLUDING GATOR TAPE, ONE GATOR HOLSTER AND ONE GATOR CLAW)

GATOR TAPE The Gator Tape top reading tape measure works by measuring from the back of the base plate to the hook of the tape. Where it differs from others on the market is its maximum blade width of 25mm and a superior stand-out. It is, in fact, the only top viewing tape measure with a Class 1 blade, which means it has the highest standard of accuracy available, with an error of no more than +/- 1.1mm over a 10m length. The Gator Tape is as made to measure for the trades as our giveaways – and you have to be in it to win it! FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF085

X BY DESIGN PLAN + 100X GOODY BAGS

BUILD AVIATOR BY DESIGN To celebrate the launch of its By Design plan drawing service, Build Aviator is giving away a free plan to one reader. The winner will get floor plans, specs and 3D rendered images plus the concept will be fully costed using its estimating service to make sure it can be built to budget. There’s also 100 site goody bags up for grabs! Finding great prizes for you each and every month is all part of the plan including this fantastic offer from Build Aviator. FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF087

X PRIZE BUNDLES

GEOCEL TRADE MATE ALL WEATHER SEAL BUNDLE (INCLUDING ALL WEATHER SEAL CLEAR, CARTRIDGE CUTTER AND ECOSEAL TRAVEL MUG) Trade Mate All Weather Seal, part of Geocel’s popular Trade Mate range, is an elastomeric sealant that provides excellent adhesion to both wet and damp surfaces, forming a flexible final seal in any weather. Ideal to keep in the van for emergency repairs and remedial sealing, it can be used on timber, brick, concrete, plastic, stone, glass, asphalt and most metals. This performing seal won’t let you down and neither will Professional Builder’s Free-for-All. There’s 10 prize bundles up for grabs. FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF086

X TOUGHBUILT

20CM POUCH + TOTES TB-CT-180-8 With over 50 products in the system, ToughBuilt’s ClipTech allows users to effortlessly attach and interchange pouches. The Universal Pouch quickly clips onto any belt and onto the tote itself, efficiently adapting to every job at hand. The tote is made with high-quality rugged materials, heavy-duty rivet reinforcement and high-impact clawed rubber feet. Win one of four of these tough and built-to-last pouches and totes! FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF088

X 2.5 LITRE PAINT CANS & T SHIRT

BRADITE ONE CAN Bradite One Can is a water-based, single pack, all-in-one product. This stain locking, anticorrosive coating has a recoat time of one hour and is suitable for application to many interior and exterior substrates. Prime and finish with One Can in BS, RAL and NCS colours in both Matt and Eggshell finishes. You could have ONE in the bag if you enter our ‘Free-for-All. As ever simply use the link below to go straight to Professional Builder’s website where you can enter all of our great competitions. FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF089

Easy to Enter! It’s now easier than ever before to enter the competitions on our website. We’ve collected all the competitions on one handy page, meaning you only have to enter your details once! www.rdr.link/BAF090 80

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wise howell

TRADE MEDIA DOOR & HARDWARE FEDERATION (DHF) GARAGE DOOR SAFETY VIDEO

A six-minute Door & Hardware Federation video clearly explains the issues surrounding the understanding of the ‘hold-to-run’ feature associated with roller garage doors. For example, if the door is above a certain weight, or if the door opens onto a public highway, additional safety features are required. TO VIEW THE VIDEO IN FULL, VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF091

THE RADIATOR COMPANY 2022 BROCHURE

Featuring the latest size and colour options for its range of designer radiators and towel rails, installers can order a hard copy of The Radiator Company 2022 product brochure, or download it from the company’s website. Options include aluminium, cast iron and stainless-steel in horizontal and vertical formats, as well as valves, pipe covers and peg accessories. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF092

ROCKWOOL SUSTAINABILITY REPORT 2021

Rockwool Group’s Sustainability Report for 2021 provides third-party verified data showing how the company’s products make a quantifiable impact toward achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The report also shows the good progress the manufacturer is making towards meeting its own sustainability goals. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF093

SUPPLIES4HEAT BROCHURE

New products in the Supplies4Heat brochure includes Textured Anthracite Grey as a stocked finish in the Tallis range. In the traditional towel rail market a side loading model has been added to the Chaucer collection, and a Pewter finish now features in the Belsay TRV range. The publication features the full line-up, delivery information, and technical specification. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF094 Use our digital reader enquiry service for further information online

How long do building materials last? Well, that depends on the way they are used, of course, and the amount or wear-and-tear they get. As well as the effects of “weathering”, which includes sunlight, rain, wind, frost, and the constant expansion-and-contraction that comes with changes in temperature. But some materials have a defined lifetime no matter how carefully they are chosen, installed, and maintained. One good example of that is polymeric materials, or “plastics”. Let me tell you an interesting story. When the Millennium Dome was first designed in the mid-1990s, the planned canopy was to be made of PVC-coated polyester. This was opposed by environmental campaign group Greenpeace, who thought that PVC had a short life and was bad for the planet. When Tony Blair took over as Prime Minister in 1997, he gave the Dome the go-ahead on the condition that the canopy would instead be made of PTFE-coated fibreglass, which would have a projected lifespan of 25 years. So it should really have been no surprise in February this year, when the canopy of the Millennium Dome – now known as the O2 Arena – was partially ripped off in the gale known as Storm Eunice. After all, it had reached its 25-year lifespan, exactly. Funnily enough, the day after the Dome’s canopy was ripped to shreds, I was retrieving a plastic garden chair from the hedge where Storm Eunice had deposited it. As I tossed the chair back onto the lawn, there was a cracking

sound, and one of the legs fell off. When I picked the remains up, another leg came away in my hand. I know just how long I’ve had those chairs, because I bought them when I moved into the house – exactly 25 years ago! PVC guttering is probably the plastic material that’s been around the longest, and it does seem to last well, although you lean a ladder against it at your peril. And the clips can get brittle quite quickly. Most of the storm damage around my way was from dislodged hip tiles. One neighbour was especially disappointed because his roof was only three years old. I explained that his roofer didn’t seem to know the rules, because hip tiles were supposed to be mechanically fixed down these days, not just plonked on dabs of mortar like his had been. The neighbour asked how the mechanical fixing worked, so I invited him round to see my recent back addition. It’s easy I said, there’s no mortar involved, just these plastic clips between the tiles and a plastic washer on top, that you screw down to a batten. Er . . . did I just say plastic? Well, I wonder how these dry fixing systems will be performing after 25 years?

Jeff Howell

E-mail Jeff via his website www.askjeff.co.uk

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ADVERTISEMENT INDEX Here is a useful summary of all the adverts that appear in this issue of Professional Builder. Each is listed with its page number and a direct URL that will get you straight to the relevant online information Artificial Grass ..................................................................(page 35)

Jouplast ............................................................................(page 26)

www.rdr.link/BAF120

www.rdr.link/BAF140

Barrettine ..........................................................................(page 77)

Pnu-Point Ltd ....................................................................(page 76)

www.rdr.link/BAF121

www.rdr.link/BAF141

Bond It ..............................................................................(page 32)

Pro Builder Live ................................................................(page 66)

www.rdr.link/BAF122

www.rdr.link/BAF142

Buckbootz ..........................................................................(page 71)

Quickslide............................................................................(page 5)

www.rdr.link/BAF123

www.rdr.link/BAF143

Cedral ................................................................................(page 39)

REG Group Ltd ..................................................................(page 38)

www.rdr.link/BAF124

www.rdr.link/BAF144

Eclisse UK ..........................................................................(page 19)

Rocket Door Frames ........................................................(page 59)

www.rdr.link/BAF125

www.rdr.link/BAF145

Estimatoronline ................................................................(page 36)

Rockwool Ltd ....................................................................(page 24)

www.rdr.link/BAF126

www.rdr.link/BAF146

Federation of Master Builders........................................(page 59)

RWC Limited ................................................................(back cover)

www.rdr.link/BAF127

www.rdr.link/BAF147

Faithfull Tools ....................................................................(page 61)

Safeguard Europe Limited ..............................................(page 71)

www.rdr.link/BAF128

www.rdr.link/BAF148

Freefoam Plastics UK Ltd................................................(page 54)

Sika Everbuild ..................................................................(page 30)

www.rdr.link/BAF129

www.rdr.link/BAF149

Helly Hansen UK Ltd ........................................................(page 21)

Simpson Strong Tie ..........................................................(page 41)

www.rdr.link/BAF130

www.rdr.link/BAF150

Hultafors Group ..................................................................(page 6)

Setcrete ..............................................................................(page 8)

www.rdr.link/BAF131

www.rdr.link/BAF151

International Decorative Surfaces ................(inside front cover)

Stelrad Radiators..............................................................(page 55)

www.rdr.link/BAF132

www.rdr.link/BAF152

Made for Trade ..................................................................(page 13)

Tesco Mobile ......................................................................(page 4)

www.rdr.link/BAF133

www.rdr.link/BAF153

Made for Trade ..................................................................(page 15)

Toolfair Exhibition .......................................................... (page 52)

www.rdr.link/BAF134

www.rdr.link/BAF154

Made for Trade ..................................................................(page 17)

TuffX Processed Glass Ltd ..............................................(page 45)

www.rdr.link/BAF135

www.rdr.link/BAF155

Makita ................................................................................(page 49)

Ubbink ..............................................................................(page 58)

www.rdr.link/BAF136

www.rdr.link/BAF156

Marley Limited..................................................................(page 68)

VIP Seal..............................................................................(page 61)

www.rdr.link/BAF137

www.rdr.link/BAF157

Marmox UK Ltd ................................................................(page 57)

Vortex ................................................................................(page 61)

www.rdr.link/BAF138

www.rdr.link/BAF158

Marshalls PLC ..................................................................(page 27)

West Fraser ......................................................................(page 33)

www.rdr.link/BAF139

www.rdr.link/BAF159

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GOOD HEALTH NO. 31 TINNITUS

Let’s talk about

TINNITUS... THIS MONTH GP, ALICE FITZGIBBON EXPLORES TINNITUS

happen when someone is under a lot of Having looked at hearing loss last month, stress or if they have poor general this month we will explore the condition wellbeing. Our ears are only one part of of tinnitus. Tinnitus is a condition where our hearing system. They register external the sufferer hears noises that are not sounds and then work with our brains to coming from their surroundings. help us understand the noises we hear. Sometimes it might take a while for This means we can drown background someone to realise the noise is only in noise out and focus on relevant sounds. their ear having checked everywhere else With tinnitus, it is the brain registering a it could be coming from! Tinnitus is very sound rather than the ear itself. common, can occur in people of all ages Although the sound of tinnitus may be and is not usually a serious condition. overwhelming at first, many people find Most of the time it will settle down by they get used to it and so it is not as itself, but in around 1 in 8 sufferers, obvious with time. It is important to try and tinnitus may be persistent. keep doing everything as normally as So what is it? The name tinnitus comes possible when you have tinnitus. from the Latin word for ringing, although If you are concerned about tinnitus tinnitus can be a range of sounds – ringing, then speak to your GP. They can check whistling, whooshing, buzzing, hissing or your ears for any signs of infection or refer any other noise. The noise can either be for audiology testing if there is a concern constant, or it can happen on and off. The about hearing loss. Sometimes people will experience of tinnitus is different for be referred to the Ear, Nose and Throat everyone who has it. Many people will find specialists for assessment of tinnitus and they are able to manage it and continue to rule out any other underlying causes. with their normal lives. However, a smaller Although there is no one specific number of people may find the symptoms treatment for tinnitus there are many very troublesome to the extent they things that can help. These include struggle with sleeping or other activities. relaxation, use of hearing aids, distractor The cause of tinnitus is unknown. It is sounds (such as having the radio playing) more common in people with hearing loss, and addressing any sleep issues. or other ear issues, but it also happens to Specialist tinnitus clinics people who have normal may have access to other hearing. Frequent, prolonged “Although there is no one specific treatment for tinnitus there treatments such as exposure to loud noises increases the risk of getting are many things that can help. These include relaxation, use of cognitive behavioural therapy or tinnitus tinnitus so use of appropriate hearing aids, distractor sounds (such as having the radio retraining therapy to help ear defenders is essential if severe cases. you work in noisy playing) and addressing any sleep issues.” environments or with loud machinery or tools. FOR MORE INFORMATION AND SUPPORT VISIT THE Tinnitus is not a disease or an illness; but is thought to BRITISH TINNITUS ASSOCIATION WEBSITE come from some type of change, mental or physical, which WWW.RDR.LINK/BAF095 may not even be related to hearing. For example, tinnitus can

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