Construction Update - September 2021

CONSTRUCTION UPDATE September 2021

www.construction-update.co.uk

Specialist Hand

Protection for

Construction Workers See inside spread for full details.

We Protect People.

Also featured this issue...

Specialist Hand Protection for

Construction Workers Your hands - the most valuable tool you have Your hands are without doubt your most valuable tool; they’re versatile, strong, always by your side and like your best friend, they’ll never let you down.

However, they’re also precious, sensitive and you only get one pair to last your entire life.

That’s why getting the correct hand protection is a serious matter and one that should be considered very carefully.

There are hundreds, possibly even thousands of different gloves available in today’s market. It’s great to have choice but sometimes it leads to confusion and a lack of clarity.

That’s why MCR Safety have categorised the options to help you make the right choice for you.

General Handling Heroes

MCR Safety offer an extensive range of General Handling work gloves; they come with a variety of different protective properties to suit different tasks and operations throughout the Construction Industry.

They’re especially suitable for use in Construction, Building and Trades because they’ll protect your hands from the scrapes and grazes you encounter on a daily basis.

They’re great for handling rough objects like bricks and breeze blocks, protecting your hand and improving your natural grip.

They’ll also protect your skin when in contact with abrasive surfaces like concrete, masonry and timber.

You can select from a range of coatings designed to improve, dexterity, breathability, grip and comfort. The range also includes options with touch-screen fingertips so you can operate tech without removing your gloves.

Lean more about General Handling Gloves

We Protect People.

Cut Protection Medium to Extreme Risk

Work gloves designed to offer any level of protection, by law, must be tested to EN388 which is a globally recognised standard. Gloves are tested for their resistance to abrasion, cut, tear and puncture and the combined score represents the overall protective value of the glove.

The score given for cut is the most relevant in high-risk environments; the highest rating is ‘F’.

When it comes to cut protection, MCR’s range starts at level ‘B’ and goes right through to ‘F’ . They represent this with a simple scale measuring from Medium through to Extreme protection. This is a quick and easy reference to help you navigate the range.

Levels of protection are determined by components and glove construction. Cut fibre yarns are used in conjunction with coatings and for some gloves at the extreme end of the scale, leather reinforcements are used.

The Construction Industry is one of the biggest users of impact protection gloves. Heavy objects are an obvious hazard and although safety regulations are stringent and personnel are properly trained; there is always risk of hand injury.

Learn more about Cut-Protection Gloves

Armoury for Hands

MCR Safety’s impact protection gloves have robust armour to shield the back of your hand. It’s made from TPR (Thermo Plastic Rubber), an ideal material for impact protection because it’s incredibly tough but also surprisingly supple.

It’s applied in panels like the scales of a crocodile so it can flex with the hand through your full range of motion.

Learn more about Impact-Protection Gloves

Protective Eyewear.

MCR Safety also have a full range of protective eyewear and prescription safety eyewear.

www.mcrsafetyeurope.com

MCR Safety Europe.

Middlemore Lane West - Walsall - WS9 8BG - United Kingdom t: +44 (0) 1922 457421 e: sales@mcrsafetyeurope.com

Eco friendly, luxury surfaces Our glass surfaces are manufactured using waste glass destined for landfill. A combination of craftsmanship and high-tech processes produce beautiful, hard wearing surfaces. Ecorok is scratch resistant, non porous and smooth to the touch making them easy to clean with just warm soapy water. We offer our customers a full service package including digital measuring, delivery and installation.

Kitchen worktops Splashbacks Bathroom vanity units Wall panels Tiles - various sizes Bar tops Reception areas Serving stations Tea points Retails counters

We work with architects, designers and developers in addition to our rapidly expanding personal customer network.

Our work can be found in homes and commercial buildings around the whole of the UK.

ORDER SAMPLES ONLINE

Our sustainable clients include, HMRC, Diageo, Kellogg’s, Breeam, Dorrington PLC, Fortnum and Mason, Leeds Building Society, and MasterCard.

Get in touch if you would like to discuss how Ecorok ™ recycled glass surfaces can help you to become more sustainable in the future.

Diamik Glass on 0113 249 7001 email info@diamik.co.uk www.diamikglass.co.uk

Construction Update September 2021

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QUALITY FORGED IN FIRE! Don’t risk your life (or anyone else’s) by using products which aren’t fit for purpose.

Our fire rated foams and sealants are tried and tested to EN1366-4, EN1366-3, EN10140-2 and EN13501-2.

Head Office: Unit G16, River Bank Way, Lowfields Business Park, Elland, West Yorkshire HX5 9DN Tel: +44(0)1422 315300, Email: salesuk@bonditgroup.com, www.bonditgroup.com

SILICONES • SEALANTS • PU FOAMS • ADHESIVES • BUILDING CHEMICALS • TILE ADHESIVES & GROUTS • PLUMBING SOLUTIONS • BITUMENS

September 2021

Safe in the knowledge Effective performance is everything when it comes to fire safety products. However, without knowing it, many of us could be making compromises when it comes to our choice of fire foams and fire rated silicones.

David Moore, CEO of the Bond It Group explains: “As a company that manufactures sealants, adhesives and other building chemicals, you might expect us to advocate increased awareness when it comes to choosing fire foams. But self-gain never has, and never will, be Bond It’s main motivation for urging greater consideration when it comes to these products.

Instead, we believe the building industry in the UK is affected by a serious issue with equally serious, and potentially lifethreatening, implications.

With lives at stake, and against a backdrop where we are all increasingly accountable for our work and where they have been a number of high profile examples of poor building practices contributing to the spread of fire, we see it as our responsibility to share our knowledge.”

The problem stems from the existence of too many different but similar sounding classification systems. This has created a degree of confusion which has left many in the sector at risk of inadvertently using fire foams with levels of performance that fall woefully short of the mark.

Not all fire foams are created equal

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Years ago specifying a fire foam was a lot simpler and

arguably safer than it is today.

You had the choice of either a standard foam or a fire foam with both types available in either a gun or handheld form.

To benefit from its classification, fire foam had to comply with BS476 part 20. This meant it would act as a barrier to fire for 4 hours giving a building’s occupants vital time to escape.

Then, with an influx of European foams into the UK came a proliferation of different standards.

The most widespread was a German standard based on a sliding scale. This ranged from A1 (100% non-combustible) through to A2, B1, B2 and B3 with the latter offering the worst levels of performance.

If the introduction of a whole new standard system and a large number of differing classifications didn’t serve to create enough confusion, the way of assessing the UK and European standards was also totally different.

The UK standard meant a fire foam had to act as a barrier to prevent fire transferring from one room to another for a period of four hours. The German standard meanwhile was based on someone trying to ignite the foam itself - not a very realistic scenario.

Savings - but at what cost?

One of the most widely seen classifications people now find on fire foams is B2 and it’s not hard to understand why. B2 strikes a fine balance between offering some fire resistance and at a cost that won’t hurt budgets – or margins.

However, in our opinion, B2 ‘fire’ foam’s performance is totally inadequate and we don’t think it should be sold as fire foam at all. Yes, there are savings and profits to be made, but at the end of the day, what price do you put on property or even more poignantly, on someone’s life?

September 2021 recommend using our Premiere B1 Fire Resistant Foam, which has been fully tested as an efficient seal against smoke and gas, providing up to 240 minutes fire resistance, which is available in 750ml gun and aerosol versions.

As we near the 4th anniversary of the Grenfell Tower fire, we are hoping lessons have been learnt.

Like most of our competitors, we react to market demand and do supply a B2 PU foam as part of our range. However, we are strict about this not being referred to as a “fire” foam and it is not marketing under this guise at all. We clearly state what the products performance characteristics are and what it is tested to. We would, however, in every fire sensitive situations, where linear gaps or service penetrations are to be sealed, we only

Silicone sealants also play a big part in ensuring the integrity of fire resistant seals and joints.

These are used in re-establishing the fire-rated integrity of a wall or floor assembly compromised by the inclusion or exclusion of a penetrant. Flames and smoke can spread through the smallest of gaps causing extreme damage to buildings and even human lives. Applying an intumescent sealant to linear joints, around pipes and between cables to close all the gaps and add fire resistance. An intumescent seal slows down the burning process and does not contribute to spread of flames. Therefore, it can minimize the damage by protecting structures, giving fire fighters more time to arrive and take the fire under control as well as fireproofing escape routes allowing for efficient evacuation.

How does intumescent sealant work?

Intumescent seals are known as means of passive fire protection, but what is an intumescent

sealant in practice? Also known as expansion sealant, intumescent sealant expands when it becomes exposed to extreme heat and can swell up to 40 times its original volume. The sealant increases in volume but decreases in density forming a char layer. The expanded sealant does not actually catch fire, but the char burns eventually, still much more slowly than most building materials. Depending on the product formulation, application and backing material, an intumescent sealant can be resistant to fire for up to 4 hours.

Buildings require different levels of fire resistance depending on their size and whether they have a residential purpose.

Better safe than sorry Of course, it would be remiss of Bond It to highlight an issue as grave as current fire foam classification and misclassification without proposing a solution.

Thankfully, there is one - and it’s also fairly easy to implement.

In its simplest terms, our advice would in every circumstance if you need fire protection from your foams nothing less than B1 is really acceptable as a bare minimum standard (and normally coloured light pink) and for silicones we would recommend a fire tested sealant, such as Bond Its FS4 silicone which is available in EU3 and EU9 cartridges and 600ml foil versions.

Look for the standards EN1366-4, EN1366-3, EN ISO 10140-2 and EN135012 on packs - which are proof that the foams and sealants will do their job, and have been certified to do so, leaving you safe in the knowledge that you’ve chosen a true fire foam or fire rated sealant that will leave people safe in their homes, offices and other buildings.

For more information on Bond It’s fire rated products contact our Sales Office on 01422 315300 or visit www.bonditgroup.com.

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September 2021

Out with Old Hybrid in with New TRIBRID® CT1 – The UK’s Number 1 Sealant and Adhesive – Unique TRIBRID® Technology

CT1

has been notably considered and voted as the Number 1 Sealant and Adhesive in the UK, and been the market leader for almost 18 years.

The first to introduce the term and technology hybrid polymer, turned the industry on its head by introducing a product that replaces several products in just 1 tube.

CT1, which replaces all other silicones, sanitary and butyl rubber sealants. CT1 replaces mastic, wood and P.U adhesives. Trades people, all across the UK now only need one tube as opposed to several for a job. But as we know it’s not just why the trade buy CT1.

CT1 which boasts over 25 accreditations, guarantees to work first time all the time. Due to its unique formula, CT1 has no solvents and guarantees never to shrink or crack.

Never having to revisit a job.

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Never resting on their laurels, and always the first to introduce latest technology, CT1’s research and development department which never

sleeps, realised that hybrid technology was now dated and the industry wanted more from hybrid polymers. Clear hybrid polymer’s conventionally yellowed over time, a common gripe with tradespeople.

Often the white discoloured.

Painting over hybrid’s could also be problematic with a pink tinge seeping through.

Realising this, CT1 have introduced TRIBRID® This unique formulation has now surpassed the hybrid formulations. CT1 is now 3 times stronger. It has been tested on all building materials and the tests are outstanding.

Each test on each substrate, outperformed hybrid’s by 3 times. Tests carried out under BS EN ISO 8339:2005, showed Brick to Copper, 251% stronger than hybrid, Brick to Wood, 357% times stronger than Hybrid. The elongation of TRIBRID® and extension at break has never been seen before in the industry.

TRIBRID® outperforming old hybrid technology has over 25 accreditations making CT1 still the most eco compliant and healthiest choice of sealant on the market.

Not only that, but the colour retention of both white and clear outperforms hybrids, the TRIBRID® has colour retention up to 25 years under the correct environments. CT1 recently has been also awarded yet another accreditation SINTEF which adds to CT1’s crown of being the most environmentally friendly sealant on the market. SINTEF is a certification to prove documentation of health and environmental characteristics of construction products related to relevant environmental requirements in the Norwegian Market.

CT1 which is made in Britain with British technology and design, guarantees quality and a local technical service, which proves popular for local building authorities and project managers when looking for technical advice on site. Various projects across the UK, national landmarks, attractions and public buildings have been saved, restored and built using CT1. CT1 was the only one specified, the only product capable of performing under certain tough elements and environments. The Wave in Bristol is one such attraction.

The Wave is the first inland-surfing destination of its kind, but also a marvel in engineering, creating real waves inland used for both training at Olympic level and tourist attraction.

CT1 was the only sealant and adhesive that past all required test’s and the only one capable of performing in such harsh and difficult conditions.

Diana’s memorial fountain, The London Eye, The Olympic Village and many more.

This is why all leading independents and nationals have full profiles of CT1. Travis Perkins, Wickes, Jewson’s, Toolstation, Buildbase all profile the latest technology. TRIBRID® from CT1. www.ct1.com

Out with OLD HYBRID, in with ® NEW TRIBRID

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PETZL LIGHTING SOLUTIONS When the specialists from the SAS Michel Besson Company dig underground galleries, they know they can count on Petzl’s advanced headlamp technology to provide lighting that is best adapted to their work.

The Petzl headlamp range covers the full spectrum of professional needs, from intensive to occasional use, and for different work environments that require varying degrees of brightness. www.petzl.com

September 2021

These days, the word “sustainability” seems to crop up everywhere. But is it just another business buzzword, or are we genuinely making a shift in the way we think and act, to protect and preserve the world we live in for future generations?

While “Green Issues” like recycling and sustainability were on the fringe 20 years ago, these days they’re right at the heart of business with sustainability having a huge influence on every aspect of industry, especially at Eurocell.

What’s more, according to our research carried out in 2019, over half of consumers want their houses to be built with sustainable features.

When asked about their preferred sustainability features, consumers identified double/triple glazing as the most appealing (58%), followed by solar panels (35%), energy efficient appliances (34%) and the use of recycled and sustainable building products (22%).

One of the key drivers behind this trend is the implementation of sustainability features by developers, which are regularly being incorporated into housebuilding voluntarily rather than because of legislation.

Explaining this trend, Steve Marshall, Architect Director and Head of Housing at BDP commented: “Some of our local authority clients like to be seen as leading the way and pushing standards when it comes to sustainability. They need to be seen to be doing the right thing and as such will go above and beyond minimum requirements. It might take time for this to impact the standards that others build to, but this may happen as buyers start to ask why the council is offering something that private developers are not.”

Whilst housing developers are pushing this trend currently, a group of architects presented with these statistics believe that consumer and tenant demand is likely to be a driver for sustainable development

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in the future. Despite this increased awareness it was highlighted by the architects that, for homes to become more sustainable, consumers need more education on what sustainability means in housing.

James Roberts, Project Architect at SimpsonHaugh, said: “It comes down to what is tangible. People understand the concept of double glazing and smart meters, for example. However, if you look at the sustainability credentials of the materials used, or how airtight a home is, these are less tangible yet can have an equally significant impact on how sustainable a home is. As such, willingness to invest in some ‘sustainable design features’ is likely to increase as the public’s understanding of them does. Some they will already be investing in, without appreciating it.”

Why use PVC-U PVC-U is a highly sustainable product, robust enough to be recycled and repurposed up to 10 times without its quality or performance deteriorating, giving it a lifespan in the construction industry of 350 years.

At our recycling plants, we process up to 70,000 old PVC-U window frames per week, or around 39,000 tonnes per year. Once recycled, it is used to create a variety of new products, from thermal inserts to our revolutionary Modus window system. By doing this we can reuse almost 100% of our production waste.

September 2021 Wherever possible, we offer a ‘closed loop’ service, reengineering the PVC-U taken from old frames to make new windows, doors and building products for the same supplier.

The process uses less energy and gives customers a high performance, more efficient product. Working in commercial, refurbishment sectors and social housing, we have the capability to collect nationwide and reprocess old window frames that may otherwise go to landfill, converting them to reusable material which can be used as a raw material in the manufacture of new building products.

Preventing post-consumer windows and doors going to landfill is not only environmentally beneficial but has a direct impact on project delivery and cost effectiveness. Under current government commitments landfill tax is set to continue.

By adopting and implementing sustainable practices companies can manage resources, build their environmental reputation, and ultimately reduce costs.

8 Facts you may not know about PVC-U • •

• • • • • •

PVC-U is made from 57% salt The Circular economy is on trend – but we have been doing for over 10 years – we call it closed loop recycling When we asked, 99% of people didn’t know that window frames could be recycled 95% of A+ rated windows in the UK are PVC-U PVC-U can be recycled up to 10 times With a first lifespan of 35 years PVC-U windows and doors can have a total life of up to 350 years PVC-U actually gets stronger when recycled Our windows are made with 50% postconsumer recycled material.

The recycling process makes PVC-U stronger Products manufactured from recycled PVC-U are actually stronger than those made with virgin plastic because of the chemical transformation of the polymers it contains when it goes through the recycling process.

PVC-U is made up of millions of intertwined, spaghettilike strands, or ‘polymer-chains’ that give it rigidity and strength. When the plastic is heated to melting point during recycling, these strands loosen but, crucially,

they don’t break down as other polymers can in some other forms of plastic. That means, when the melted plastic is reformed into new window frames, the polymer-chains can intertwine again. The first time PVC-U undergoes this process, it gets up to 6% stronger, then marginally stronger the next four-five times it is recycled, meaning that PVC-U can be reprocessed and used to make the same products it came from or for high-value, ‘upstream’ recycling.

Eurocell Recycle At our consolidated operations in Ilkeston and Selby, Eurocell Recycle now offers the largest and most complete closed-loop process in the UK. Recycling plays a significant role in making industry sustainable. That’s why Eurocell is so heavily committed to recycling every single piece of UPVC waste we create. We aim to bring as many postconsumers window frames, doors, conservatories and building items as possible back into the production process, keeping tonnes of UPVC out of landfill.

Despite 2020 resulting in several challenges - we still managed to recycle an impressive number of PVC-U frames. Like most businesses, Eurocell Recycle closed its doors for a few months in 2020 to keep its staff and customers safe and put in Covid-secure work processes.

This being said, for the last 5 consecutive years, (2020 excluded) Eurocell Recycle has managed to beat its previous year’s total recycling number and we plan to make 2021 the biggest year yet, with a target of a record-breaking 3.5 million frames recycled.

It’s all part of our contribution to the circular economy - a global shift towards reclaiming used raw materials and keeping them in the supply chain via reusing and recycling.

It’s a methodology that’s not just good for the environment but for the global economy too, salvaging billions of pounds’ worth of raw material for re-use, where it had previously been simply thrown away and lost forever.

However, impressive as all these achievements are, sustainability is about much more than recycling. And at Eurocell, we’re working harder than ever to achieve maximum sustainability in every aspect of our business.

To find out more about our sustainability, or to arrange a collection of PVC-U frames visit: www.eurocell.co.uk/eurocell-recycle

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September 2021

Historic England lead by example and specify Stella Rooflight Historic England (formerly known as English Heritage) has specified and installed a Stella bespoke conservation rooflight at their York Regional Office.

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September 2021

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s part of a programme of works, which included several fire safety improvements throughout the building, Stella was approached by specialist heritage surveyors, Smith & Garratt to design a bespoke conservation rooflight.

The design of which would need to provide suitable ventilation for the building’s communal stairwell.

Aside from the design functionality, the rooflight would also need to satisfy strict Conservation requirements, as the building is deemed of significant historic and architectural interest.

As all Stella rooflights incorporate slender steel frames, which sit flush within the roofline, they were the ideal choice for maintaining the heritage of the building.

The Stella team worked closely with Smith & Garratt and specialist contractors CG Building & Restoration Ltd on an innovative design that would meet the approval of Historic England and the Planning committee.

Stella Rooflight Director, Paul Trace, said: “When Historic England approached us to help obtain planning permission, which had previously been rejected, for the refurbishment works at the head office, we were only too happy to

help. We came up with a unique rooflight design with electrically actuated central openings that would provide the solution they were looking for, while at the same time satisfying the planners.”

The 2185mm (w) x 2050mm (h) rooflight consisted of four casements, of which, the two centre side hung opening panes are electronically operated by two pairs of high performance chain actuators and designed to open out 90 degrees to provide the required ventilation. The two remaining side panes were of a fixed design and were at the same level as the opening casements; which was an important detail in satisfying the planning requirement.

As with all Stella rooflights the frame was manufactured using marine grade 316 stainless steel, with a C5 coastal powder coating to protect against rust and prolong the lifespan of the rooflight. A bespoke handmade hardwood liner provided a stunning internal finish.

A high specification glazing consisted of a BioClean Natura Self-Clean and Solar Control outer pane with a black warm edge spacer (Argon Gas), and a Planitherm One Low E inner pane.

Due to the considerable size and weight of the rooflight, CG Building carefully craned the rooflights into position and fixed them into place, finishing the job using a pre-formed lead flashing kit provided by Stella Rooflight.

Historic England’s head office is situated at 37 Tanner Row in the Micklegate Ward of York city centre. The impressive five-storey, end-of-terrace red brick building is Grade II Listed and lies within a Conservation Area.

Originally built as a railway hotel in the 1850s, originally ‘The George Hotel’, latterly ‘The North Eastern’, the property today serves as the modern offices of Historic England – the Government body that helps people care for and enjoy England’s historic environment.

For further information on Stella conservation rooflights contact Paul Trace on 01794 745445, email info@stellarooflight.co.uk or visit www.stellarooflight.co.uk

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September 2021

New “Specialist Pump Range” for the projects that nothing else can handle!

Recently Pump Technology Ltd has launched its “Specialist Range”.

Pumping systems for projects that standard equipment can’t handle.

This equipment will enable specifiers and installers to place new kitchen and toilet facilities in the ideal location without compromise, while not being restricted by previously unsolvable drainage scenarios!

These products are:

FlushMaster: For a single toilet, bidet, washbasin and shower.

When the discharge pipe run is convoluted and outside the performance parameters of standard macerator pump system.

Plancofix Plus: For wet rooms, barrier free or a low-level entry shower.

With a shallow installation depth of just 8cm or 9cm (depending on model) the pump system can be set into the screed. The pump is integrated into the floor drain in the tiled shower.

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September 2021

DrainMajor 730HES: Floor mounted, Hot Wastewater pumping system.

A pumping system rated for continuous operation at elevated wastewater temperatures of up to 90 deg c. With large soft solids handling this unit is not only ideal for appliances such as dishwashers, combi ovens but also sinks with Zip Taps.

With changes to building usage now more likely than ever before, home working or adding catering or changing room facilities to head offices, the chances are that the ideal location for these new features will not always be in the right place to utilise gravity drainage, therefore a pumped system will be required.

The range of pumping equipment, manufactures, designs and sizes is endless.

Best pumping performance, reliability and long product life relies on accurate matching of the pump’s capabilities to the application as the envelope for good performance is relatively narrow.

This is where an independent wastewater and sewage pumping distributer comes into its own, one phone call and their experienced team can select the correct equipment for just about any domestic or commercial application saving time and expense.

Pump Technology Ltd, has been specialist in this field for over 26 years. The leading manufactures such as Jung Pumpen, Saniflo, Whale, Grundfos, Lowara, Dab and many more have appointed them to specify, supply and maintenance their products.

More Information: 0118 9821 555 www.pumptechnology.co.uk

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September 2021

Engineering innovators of the future will be studying in comfort and style at the University of Birmingham’s brand new £46.5m School of Engineering building, thanks to Waterloo’s innovative air distribution products.

University of Birmingham School of Engineering

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aterloo’s Thermally Actuated and Fixed Blade Swirl Diffusers, Louvre Faced Diffusers and Airline and Eggcrate Grilles were used extensively throughout the building. These quality products were selected for their ability to meet the challenges of heating and cooling a double-height atrium and provide precise colour matching to the building design.

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This inspiring 12,000 sqm, fivefloor space, delivered by national contractor Willmott Dixon, has been designed to bring together students, academics and

industry partners from many engineering disciplines in one multi-functionary facility. The state-of-the-art building offers a variety of contemporary and flexible design and research spaces to bring together engineering disciplines, spark innovation and strengthen teaching and research partnerships. These include a dedicated student support hub, a new 179-capacity design centre, a 50seat electronics and

electrical focused projects space, 34 flexi-bays for staff and student interactions, three 50-seat seminar rooms and 160 drop-in study spaces.

September 2021

One of the main challenges of this project was the aesthetics.

The design of the system meant that many of the products would be on show and would therefore need to be colourmatched precisely to blend seamlessly with the surrounding finishes. Waterloo was able to match a wide range of RAL paint finishes to ensure that the right product could be used without compromising on appearance.

Working with mechanical engineering contractor NG Bailey, Waterloo was asked to propose a package of high-quality air distribution products for use throughout the building. The system had already been designed to Stage 4 by ARUP and then finalised and adopted by NG Bailey, with the final aesthetics approved by Associated Architects.

Waterloo’s task was to identify the products that would satisfy the system requirements whilst also matching the wide range of specified colours and finishes.

“This is never a straightforward task, but it’s one at which we excel,” said Waterloo Area Manager Mark Horsley. “There is a great deal of detail involved in specifying the correct products for a design on paper if it is to be workable in practice. Because we offer such a wide range of products, we can always find solutions that will deliver optimum performance in operation.”

Waterloo answered the challenge of heating and cooling the impressive double-height atrium by installing Thermally Actuated Swirl Diffusers (SDACH) at high level (up to 20m). These variable swirl diffusers automatically sense the temperature of the air supply and adjust the blade angle accordingly without the need for a power supply. This constant adjustment works for both vertical and horizontal throw and ensures excellent induction and best comfort in the occupied zone.

Optimum comfort conditions were achieved for all the office, study and workshop areas by using Fixed Blade Swirl Diffusers

(SDFC). These attractive and aerodynamic ceiling or ductmounted diffusers were ideally suited to the high heating and cooling differentials of the building’s range of occupied spaces. Used throughout the project in both ceiling and sidewall applications were Louvre Faced Diffusers (DF41), Eggcrate Grilles (GC5) and Airline Linear Grilles (ALG) which are available in the wide range of special options and finishes that made them so well-suited to this project.

Matt Mayo, NG Bailey’s Mechanical Project Engineer for the School of Engineering, said: “For a development where there is a lot of complexity in the design, it is vital that the specialist partners we work with are able to provide a high level of service every step of the way. We approached Waterloo for this project because we knew they would be able to supply high quality, high performance products. They matched this with the degree of attention to detail and collaboration that we need to deliver a firstclass result to our client.” www.waterloo.co.uk

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September 2021

Snickers Workwear Will Stretch Your Visibility.

Certified Hi-Vis Working Clothes to deliver comfort, wellbeing and safety

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nstant recognition and continuous protection at work is a life-saver in hazardous conditions. That’s why HiVis working clothes are an integral part of every man and woman’s PPE package – especially in dim, dark or variable light conditions.

Snickers Workwear has an extensive range of garments to suit a wide range of work environments from construction and engineering to handling and logistics; professional trades and lighter manual work; to specialist engineering requiring high standards of certified personal protective clothing.

There’s Jackets, Trousers, Shorts, Toolvests, Shirts and Fleeces in the LITEWork, FLEXIWork AllroundWork and ProtecWork families - a host of different garments to satisfy the specific requirements of Classes 1, 2 and 3 protection levels.

All these ‘outstanding’ products combine Snickers Workwear’s unrivalled hallmarks of functionality and comfort with the requirements of the EN20471 standard for high visibility warning clothes.

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Getting more information on the Snickers Workwear range of ProtecWork and Snickers Workwear Hi-Vis protective wear is easy. You call the Helpline on 01484 854788; check out www.snickersworkwear.co.uk and download a digital catalogue; or you can email sales@hultaforsgroup.co.uk

There’s a reason Managing Safely doesn’t cut corners The consequences of rushing health and safety training can be fatal.

So Managing Safely takes exactly the right amount of time to get participants up to speed.

That’s why our three day health and safety course is the most popular for line managers, in any sector, worldwide.

Managing Safely Tried. Tested. Trusted. www.iosh.com/managingsafely

September 2021

REFLEX-ROL MAXI SYSTEMS ‘Blinds’ are out and ‘Solar Shading’ is in! With the advance of Solar Shading fabrics, we can now achieve g-values ( Total energy penetration degrees) of less than 20%, and that is almost, within a few % , on a par with external shading but without the maintenance issues. Solar shading has become highly technical and there really is no ‘off the shelf’ solution or a ‘one fits all’ scenario. stop to limit the upper position of the blinds as well as protection when the blinds are not in use.

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he Reflex-Rol MAXI solar shading system is ideally suited for buildings with overheating and glare issues such as: office environments, large glazed areas, hospitals, schools, private and public buildings. The clients we serve are architectural, interior design, construction planning, building management, health & safety professionals and residential. The principle which underpins our service policy is best professional practice.

Best practice in solar control technology means supplying product and technical support of the highest standard and levels of professional competence.

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Reflex-Rol MAXI systems, in combination with Mermet fabrics, provide a technically advance,

elegant solution to solar heat and glare control. Ideal for virtually any application, indoor or outdoor, small or large blinds, due to the functionality of the systems and the extensive range of fabric textures and colours available.

Horizontal, vertical, inclined, shaped, Reflex-Rol has a solution for any window. Available in a wide range of headbox sizes with a variety of side guides and bottom bars also available. Hardware available as standard in white or aluminium, or why note have it powder coated to a RAL colour of your choice? All blinds include an invisible opening headbox for rear ventilation on the window side. The headbox serves as a

Mermet coated fibreglass fabrics are suitable for solar shading, sound control and the provision of tensile structures such as canopies, stretched ceilings and wall panels.

Ideal for both internal and external use, Mermet fabrics are ideal for digital printing; meaning pictures, corporate logos and such can be printed onto the fabric before it made into the final product this could be a blind, stretched ceiling or anything else your imagination suggests. Mermet fabrics also meet BS476, Part 6, Class O fire rating making them particularly suitable for use in schools, hospitals or other public areas and buildings.

Reflex-Rol has been providing shading solutions to the UK market for nearly 40 years, since 1983.

Give us a call today to see how we can help you! www.reflex-rol.co.uk info@reflex-rol.co.uk

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September 2021

pgraded, Innovative and Sustainable - Snickers Workwear ‘Climate Control’ clothing delivers exceptional comfort and performance. There’s a range of garments that use socially and environmentally responsible fibre technology such as 100% recycled polyester, as well as others available in high-tech breathable fabrics.

For consistent comfort, the seamless designs are also available in 37.5® ventilating technology for efficient body moisture transport as well as odour-reducing merino wool to suit different types of work, whatever the weather conditions.

These cutting-edge AllroundWork, FLEXIWork and LITEwork designs and fabrics will keep you cool, warm and dry when you need to be. All the garments are made from quick drying, lightweight fabrics that come with special ventilation features to control and regulate the heat from your body.

All in all, Snickers Workwear Baselayer clothing will give you the kind of fresh working comfort you wouldn’t have thought possible.

Getting more information on the Snickers Workwear clothing range is easy. You can call the Helpline on 01484 854788; check out www.snickersworkwear.co.uk and download a digital catalogue or email sales@hultaforsgroup.co.uk

Climate Control Baselayers – For the Summer and Autumn Months.

Snickers Workwear will give your workday working clothes a good foundation.

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September 2021

Smart Buildings Show Opens its 2021 event for Registration The UK’s cornerstone Smart Buildings Show returns for its largest event to-date, as the free-to-attend conference and exhibition takes place at London’s iconic ExCel, on 6-7th October 2021. With more exhibitors and content than ever before, Covid-19-safe practices will be followed in-line with venue and government guidelines, to ensure a safe event for all.

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mart Buildings Show, the UK’s cornerstone commercial smart buildings event, has announced its 2021 event has now opened for registration.

The free-to-attend conference and exhibition takes place at the London ExCel on the 6-7th October 2021, featuring some of the leading names in the commercial smart buildings, technology and energy sectors including Priva UK, Trend, ABB and Siemens Smart Infrastructure.

Following its recent call for papers, Smart Buildings Show returns with four theatres, delivering industryleading thought leadership and technical content; presenting visitors the opportunity to share and discuss the growing new trends within the sector.

The theatres include Connected - Management, which will look at how smart building are managed and how the workplace has changed post-covid; The Connected - Controls Theatre, which will look at physical devices in smart buildings; The Connected - Spaces & Infrastructure Theatre, which will focus on smart buildings, wellbeing, networks, connectivity and power; and the Training Theatre, which will offer visitors the chance to enhance their industry credentials via CPDaccredited presentations.

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“We are delighted to welcome visitors back to Smart Buildings Show conference and exhibition,” said Ian Garmeson, Managing Director, Turret Group.

“This year’s show will provide visitors with the first in-person event to focus on smart buildings and their associated critical infrastructure since the start of the pandemic. We believe it will provide a fantastic opportunity to network among fellow industry peers and demonstrate how our sector will play a key role in helping the UK to build back better.”

Throughout the two days, Smart Buildings Show 2021 will cover key aspects of creating and managing a smart building, including: • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Building automation and design Building automation systems Building energy management Energy efficiency Health & safety HVAC Lighting and controls Networks and wireless Regulations and consultancy Security Services and support Smart meters and monitoring Software Workplace and wellbeing

This year’s Headline Sponsor, Bluetooth SIG, is joined by Platinum Sponsors; aico/HomeLink, The DALI Alliance, Sauter Automation and Schneider Electric.

To register for your free ticket, visit smartbuildingsshow.com to unlock all the information you need to make your buildings more economic and functional.

For more information on exhibiting and sponsorship, please contact Claire Hatchett at c.hatchett@turretgroup.com or 07976 613352.

6-7 October 2021 • ExCeL London

MAKING YOUR BUILDING SMARTER Smart Buildings Show is the UK’s leading commercial smart buildings conference and exhibition and is free to attend.

■ Keep up to date with the latest innovations and technologies ■ Meet the leading suppliers to the market ■ Find new partners and business opportunities ■ Network with your peers from other organisations Headline Sponsor: Official Sponsors:

www.smartbuildingsshow.com

September 2021

Balancing the temperature in the jungle…

The successful ITV television show, I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here is breaking new ground, with the opening of “the ultimate jungle encounter” indoor entertainment attraction. Helping visitors keep their cool beyond the tasks and trials is ventilation from Gilberts Blackpool.

The attraction sees the creation of Main Camp, the Throne and Winners Bridge in a 2,500m2 venue complete with climbing walls, zip wires and tree top trails in MediaCityUK, Manchester.

Kimpton Energy Solutions was charged with designing and installing the mechanical building services for the back of house areas, utilising existing air handling plant on the roof.

Kimpton challenged Gilberts Blackpool to develop the means to ensure adequate fresh air into the enclosed areas, and exhaust of used aira means that did not intrude upon or protrude through walls and ceilings full of graphics to replicate the jungle scenario in party rooms, and beyond into WCs and changing facilities.

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Gilberts’ solution was to utilise its GSF omnidirectional swirl diffuser with coanda plates to induct high volumes of air into the areas without draughts nor cold ‘dumping’. Gilberts’ GSXE exposed circular perforated diffusers provided extraction.

Explained Jason Laugharne, Gilberts Sales manager for the project, “The aim was to ensure adequate supply and extract of air for potentially large numbers of people, who have been active and therefore generating higher levels of heat and moisture.

However, we had to address low ceiling heights, which reduced interior capacity for sufficient entrainment of air.

September 2021

“By utilising our circular swirl diffusers combined with coanda plates, we were able to optimise airflow across the ceiling and so minimise the risk of visitors feeling the effects of draughts or cold ‘dumping’ whilst delivering the high air volumes needed.”

Added Peter Haresnape, Kimpton Project Manager, “It was a complex project, having to fit ductwork through constrained, congested areas and create a building services solution that delivered without impacting on the interior design

and graphics. I knew I could rely on Gilberts to deliver good products and good technical support, to work with us to overcome on-site vagaries and limitations.”

I’m a Celebrity… Jungle Challenge joins Gilberts’ portfolio of ventilation solutions for unusual scenarios, including a security services’ shooting range, the Rainforest at Chester Zoo, Royal Albert Hall auditorium and Hintze Hall at the Natural History Museum.

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September 2021

Aluprof Commits to a Long-term Environmental Strategy with New Corporate Branding

by Wojciech Brozyna - MD of Aluprof UK

It seems wherever we are today we are reminded that we are a generation that has to curb our carbon emissions in order to save the Planet for future generations. The fact that we have already increased the average temperature on Earth by approximately 1ºC above pre-industrial levels and that it is on course to increase more rapidly and reach a total of 1.5ºC to 2.0ºC by 20501.

Buildings and construction account for more than 35% of global final energy use and nearly 40% of energyrelated CO2 emissions2.

Clearly, with facts like these the Construction Industry is a prime target for carbon reduction, but the full picture is a little more complex. First, we often have the building deconstruction phase, using energy, whilst hopefully recycling as much material as possible. We then start the ‘build phase’ where all materials supplied to a project site carry some form of embodied carbon, followed by the construction phase which adds even more carbon into the materials used. Once in use, we have a building that may use further carbon fuels during its lifetime, unless it is designed to be carbon neutral in use.

Whilst the build phase uses energy, which contributes to its carbon impact, this can pale into insignificance when we consider the building ‘use’ phase, as if the insulation is poor, vast amounts of energy can be wasted. It is therefore crucial to design with the very best, modern products, that help conserve energy.

Clearly, buildings must be designed in future to last a very long time which further reduces the construction carbon impact, likewise, products that offer very high levels of insulation and sustainability, help keep the interior environment at a comfortable level and offer a lifetime of use.

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RAD Building Nottingham University - Rated BREEAM Excellent and Passivhaus certified

Aluminium fenestration has long been associated with extensive life expectancy and can offer reduced maintenance whilst maintaining operational efficiency

September 2021 with high thermal efficiency. Perhaps the ‘golden egg’ would be to construct a building to be carbon positive in use, where it can actually save more carbon in its lifetime as it ‘costs’ in carbon to build? Aluprof, part of the Kęty Group, are working with environmental experts across the construction sector who are in turn continuing to push the boundaries of what is achievable for all our customers.

To this end Aluprof UK have now joint the Passivhaus UK Trust as a Patron Member.

To further enhance aluminium’s enduring life expectancy, Aluprof are licensed applicators to the global QUALICOAT standard for architectural powder coating and can offer various substantial aluminium pretreatments and more durable classes of powder coating to meet any specification. Aluprof are also license holders of QUALANOD, a further global standard for the provision of high-quality anodising. Together these finishes can easily extend the life expectancy of Aluprof’s products for future generations.

Aluprof, who are a Polish based aluminium systems company, have had a base in the UK now for fifteen years, supplying a wide range of high-performance systems, products which have seen the company become one of the leading systems suppliers in the UK. In a recent statement from the Polish head office, Aluprof has made a clear commitment to further reducing its environmental impact: “As part of its newly announced strategy, Aluprof will be continuing with its work on promoting the concept of sustainable development. Environmental and social objectives stand out amidst the company’s’ many commitments, which include obtaining further Cradle to Cradle™ certifications and the ongoing improvement of its manufacturing processes under the ISO 14001 environmental management system.

The company is introducing a range of initiatives aimed at eliminating the impact of its operations on the environment.

It has updated its detailed analysis of its products’ carbon footprint and presented its commitments in terms of sustainable development. One of its many environmental ambitions is to move towards achieving climate neutrality.”

One key to this goal is the company’s use of low-carbon aluminium. Aluprof ’s modern extrusion plant uses low-carbon billet which equates to just 2.79 tCO2e 3 .

In comparison, the average production of one ton of aluminium primary aluminium somewhere in the world has an emission of 16.7 tCO2e, almost six times higher.

The low level of carbon emissions is achieved thanks to the efficiency of the company’s new, cutting-edge plant for manufacturing, the use of low-carbon aluminium and the use of up to 65% of recycled aluminium content in Aluprof’s extrusion billet.

To further reduce carbon emissions in the distribution of aluminium systems and products, Aluprof have developed a logistics network across Europe which reduces the need to stock materials locally. The traditional approach for UK distribution of European systems would be to have product delivered to a central warehouse, then to be sent

out to customers on a ‘local’ delivery. Whilst this approach may be efficient for supplying small batches of materials too many customers, Aluprof systems are sent in bulk to UK & Ireland facade companies direct from Poland. Using modern 44 tonne gross weight delivery vehicles and trailer combinations, system and fabricated product can be shipped and delivered direct to customers, currently up to two times a week. This approach means that double handling is not required in fact offers quicker deliveries than utilising a central warehouse. Removing the central warehouse also saves further carbon costs in double handling, heating and equipment requirements. The delivery logistics are carefully monitored to ensure that routes are the most efficient and are undertaken at times to minimise traffic congestion further reducing vehicle emissions.

Social responsibility is something Aluprof have taken very seriously for some time and with the continued low turnover of employees in Poland and the UK the company continues to review its support of its workforce. The change in emphasis is seen as a move away from the importance of product to that of the role in society that the company can play. Taking such a route the company sees that product development and product quality are assured now and for future generations.

Aluprof well recognises the need for social responsibility, as Bożena Ryszka, Marketing and PR Director for ALUPROF explains: “We understand the concept of a company’s sustainable development as working for environmental protection, the safety and development of the staff, responsibility along the supply chain and involvement in the development of the local community. At ALUPROF, we carry out those kinds of initiatives through the foundation run by the Kęty Group. It’s a pivotal part of our strategy. Our ambition is to achieve climate neutrality by 2050 and to have reduced our carbon footprint by fifteen per cent by 2025.”

To reflect these new and ambitious targets, Aluprof have unveiled new branding with a bold new logo to reflect their next, socially responsible, growth within the aluminium fenestration market with a new motto to “build a better future together” Since setting up the Aluprof Office at the Business Design Centre in London, the company has rapidly grown their specification influence in the UK with their high performance architectural aluminium systems. Further expansion of the company’s headquarters in Altrincham now provides specifiers with meeting facilities and an extensive showroom of commercial systems to view. With overseas growth across Europe spreading into the Middle East and firm roots already in the East of the USA, the company is becoming a global player in facade supply.

Further information is available on the company’s website at aluprof.co.uk or direct from their UK head office in Altrincham on 0161 941 4005 or contact the London specification office on 0207 288 6413.

References: 1. IPCC, 2018: Summary for Policymakers. https://archive.ipcc.ch/pdf/special-reports/sr15/sr15_spm_final.pdf 2. The Global Status Report 2017 https://www.worldgbc.org/sites/default/files/UNEP%20188_GABC_en%20%28web%29.pdf 3. CO2e is the shorthand for carbon dioxide equivalents. It is the standard unit in carbon accounting to quantify greenhouse gas emissions, emission reductions and carbon credits. It is expressed in tonnes and is normally written as tCO2e.

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September 2021

Ballcock & Bits Dual-Brand Their Store With The IPG Ballcock & Bits in Bracknell, Berkshire has become one of the latest IPG members to dual brand their store.

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he IPG team are continuing their work to become a recognised brand amongst ALL plumbers, installers and DIY’ers. Their brand message is loud and clear, not only can you buy the best brands locally at great prices, the service you receive in an IPG member store is second to none.

When asked what his motivation was to become dual branded, Jay Lovejoy, Showroom Manager at Ballcock and Bits said: “Creating that sense of Identity across all IPG stores is important, we wanted to be at the forefront of this movement.”

Jay was also asked if his customers understand who The IPG are and how that benefits them. He responded as follows: “When our customers see our IPG branding, they’re curious to find out what The IPG are and why we’re a member. Once we explain the concept and how it can

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benefit them as the customer i.e., competitive prices for the leading brands, they often put us to the test. We win business every time.”

Jay went on to say: “We hope to continue to grow with The IPG and become more invested in the marketing side of things. It’s a company with great vision and we want to be a part of it.”

Strong outdoor signs help you captivate potential customers’ attention as they travel down the street.

Highly visible fascia’s make a big impact and can turn passers-by into a new customer. Ballcock & Bits signage is certainly very eye-catching.

For further information, contact Nike Lovell on 07954 302884 or visit www.the-ipg.co.uk

In need of spirit level bubbles?

Buy the best brands locally at great prices Visit your IPG store today for all your plumbing, heating and bathroom supplies Find your nearest IPG store at:

www.the-ipg.co.uk

Build a Sustainable Future / Multi-award-winning range of air source heat pumps / Market-leading ultra quiet sound levels / Smart control and monitoring with the MELCloud App / Guaranteed low temperature operation

ecodan.me.uk/cu2

MANUFACTURED

IN THE UK

September 2021

Wieland provides the electrical connection for HMP Five Wells Wieland Electric has supplied a variety of products from the company’s gesis RST® and GST® ranges, along with low voltage lighting control and cabling in all cells and risers, for HMP Five Wells which is currently under construction in Wellingborough, Northamptonshire. The new Category C resettlement prison is set to open in early 2022 and is built on the site of the previously demolished Wellingborough Prison, which closed in 2012. HMP Five Wells will house 1,680 male prisoners and create around 700 jobs in the area.

The project has been overseen by main contractor Kier and is embracing a Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA) concept. This will integrate digital tools to drive efficiencies in the design, construction and operation of the facility. The project is the first in a series of schemes to be

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undertaken as part of the Ministry of Justice’s New Prison Programme.

Wieland worked with building services providers Crown House Technologies to provide its RST® and GST® cable assemblies for the off-site prefabricated risers which fed the power, lighting and ancillary services to the individual prison cells and communal areas. All of the cabling in the cells was fully pluggable and incorporated Wieland’s GST® and GST® MINI systems. Wieland also supplied an extra low voltage lighting control system for cell lighting.

The design developed for HMP Five Wells supports the MoJ’s commitment to provide safe, secure and decent prison places with a focus on supporting rehabilitation. www.wieland.co.uk

September 2021

Helping Healthcare to Heal GEZE has launched ‘Helping Healthcare to Heal’ an initiative created to recognise that putting patients at the centre of hospital, clinic and doctors’ surgery building design can help in the process of healing and recovery. Equipment and materials specified and installed within the building can actively contribute to and promote well-being.

In creating the initiative GEZE looked at addressing areas that encourage recovery and provide patient comfort: • Prevent environmental stresses such as noise from slamming doors or lack of privacy without creating barriers.

• Enable patients and residents to be as close to nature as possible through outdoor views, sufficient sunlight and fresh air.

• Give patients and residents a feeling of control by being offered opportunities to access outside spaces and move around safely and contact free, not feeling imprisoned but protected in the building.

There is more information available on the GEZE UK website or alternatively GEZE have produced

a comprehensive brochure for the healthcare industry that looks at providing solutions for the hygiene, safety and well-being of not only patients but employees as well. It reviews each area of a healthcare building in detail identifying the issues of each, whether it is comfort, safety, hygiene, attractive design, sustainability, accessibility or fire safety and provides advice on overcoming them. It can be downloaded from the website or by clicking this link.

Andy Howland, sales and marketing director said “The COVID-19 pandemic has brought an intense focus on all aspects of healthcare in the UK and as we look ahead it’s likely that its impact will continue for some sometime with long lasting changes to the building design of hospital and healthcare facilities. At GEZE we support clients and architects as they consider these design implications in new construction and refurbishments to existing buildings.”

For more information about GEZE UK’s comprehensive range of automatic and manual door closers call 01543 443000 or visit www.geze.co.uk

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September 2021

Waterloo Strengthen Product Offering with Displacement Waterloo have strengthened their product offering by replacing their displacement range with the full portfolio of Swegon displacement products. By integrating a range of airborne products from the Swegon group, the supplier of air terminal devices can deliver the widest range of room unit products in the UK market.

The new range of displacement terminals are made to effectively discharge air at low velocity to ensure good comfort in rooms.

In large spaces such as airports, theatres, factory floors, open offices, and supermarkets where a traditional mixed system can fall short; using a displacement system can have significant advantages on indoor air quality and efficiency.

Rooms with high ceilings can benefit from substantial energy savings by installing the displacement terminals with Varizon®, as only the occupied zone needs to be cooled from the low level of displacement installation.

Added to the lower pressure drop associated with displacement ventilation terminals, selection of smaller and slower fans is possible for a reduction in fan energy. The supply air temperature is higher for displacement systems (circa 18°C) than for an overhead mixing

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system (circa 14°C), meaning there is greater access to free cooling throughout the year, thus improving chiller efficiency. In general, the higher the space, the greater the payback, as consideration for cooling the whole space is not required.

Another benefit of displacement is the increased hygiene factor.

New air is directed straight into the occupied zone, and old air rises to be extracted through the ceiling, meaning increased ventilation effectiveness.

Working on the principles of buoyancy and stratification, air is effectively supplied at low velocity to involve minimal mixing. By so

doing, airborne pollutants lighter than air rise above the breathing zone, meaning the air quality in the occupied zone is superior to that achieved with mixing ventilation.

Waterloo have introduced 11 models, the majority of which are complete with Swegon’s Varizon® system: offering one of the best levels of user comfort at close range on the market.

The terminal can be set to move the near zone away from critical areas reducing the risk of draughts. This can be particularly effective in conference rooms with high occupancy & minimal space. The nozzles can also be readjusted after commissioning in instances of office restructure & occupant relocation.

By integrating selected airborne products from the Swegon group, Waterloo is now in the position to offer the widest range of room unit products on the UK market. www.waterloo.co.uk

September 2021

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September 2021

Quartix Vehicle Tracking Announces New CEO Quartix, a leading supplier of subscription-based vehicle tracking systems, software and services, is pleased to announce the appointment of Richard Lilwall as successor to Andy Walters, who will retire following 20 years’ service to the Company as co-founder, Managing Director and CEO but will remain a NonExecutive Director. Mr Lilwall will join the Company as Chief Executive Officer and as a member of its plc Board in early October.

Richard is currently VP and European Managing Director of Teletrac Navman, a leading international supplier of vehicle tracking and telematics services and systems. Having gained a degree in civil engineering from Kingston University, he spent a brief period in project management and consultancy before setting up his own company, ACT Communications (UK) Ltd., in January 2002. ACT became the most successful vehicle tracking distributorship in the UK and was subsequently acquired by Navman Wireless in 2011.

At Navman Wireless Richard progressed rapidly from Major Accounts Executive to Head of Enterprise in 2014, following which he was appointed as Managing Director of Teletrac Navman Automotive in January 2017. In June 2018 he was promoted to his current position as VP and European Managing Director for Teletrac Navman.

Andy Walters, CEO of Quartix, commented: “I have followed Richard’s progress with interest over the past 20 years. He created a very successful telematics distributorship early in his career and has excelled at every role he has undertaken since then. I am delighted that he has now agreed to join us as CEO. Richard is passionate about the potential in the telematics market and I know that he will be an excellent fit within the Company’s culture.

“I shall continue in the role of Founder Non-Executive Director on the Board of Quartix Technologies plc.”

Richard Lilwall, now CEO of Quartix, commented: “I am proud and excited to be joining the team at Quartix.

Having spent 20 years in the tracking and telematics business I have observed the success of Quartix over that time. To be joining and leading this organisation is a real honour and I am confident we can continue and accelerate the growth trajectory” For more information about Quartix, visit www.quartix.com/en-gb/ or call 01686 806 663.

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September 2021

Building For Freedom: the Impact of Easing Restrictions on the Construction Sector THE LIFTING of lockdown restrictions across the UK has been eagerly awaited by many of us, with Brits keen to return to pre-pandemic norms for jobs, families, and social lives. The construction sector, in particular, has seen a mighty shake up, with site rules and ways of working changed for good. Managing director of The Input Group, Chris Monk, explains which changes will be disappearing along with restrictions and which, for better or worse, will be sticking around for the foreseeable.

“Construction was, luckily for us, one of the first sectors to reopen following the first Coronavirus lockdown. Due to already stringent health and safety policies and the nature of much work occurring in open air, works were often able to continue as planned – albeit slightly delayed in some cases.

“However, this certainly doesn’t mean we haven’t seen some major shake-ups in the sector, particularly for SMEs like ourselves, who were hardest hit by the pandemic. The Department for Business Innovation and Skills suggests that 99.9% of UK construction contracting businesses fall into the SME category, and further research from Aldermore found that 17% of construction SMEs have seen a reduction in business income since the start of the pandemic. It’s not hard to do the maths and realise that almost one fifth of the entire construction sector has been adversely affected by lockdown restrictions.

“It’s not all doom and gloom, though.

Recent data suggests growth in the sector once again, with construction output growing by 0.9% in the month-on-month all work series in January 2021, according to the Office of National Statistics. We can only expect this figure to have grown throughout the last few months, as restrictions continue to lift.

“The question remains, therefore, which of the many adaptations the sector has had to make will remain as life opens up again. Health and safety has always been a top priority for The Input Group, and the construction sector at large. Like

so many other businesses that had to follow a number of regulation changes and new government guidelines, we have had to embrace new ways of working.

“Early on, we invested in ProCore – a construction management software, which helps to oversee all aspects of each project including health and safety assessments and has been invaluable. Particularly as the subject of health and safety has never been more important than it is now. As a result we were very pleased to secure an industry-leading zero AFR (loss time injury frequency rate) rating this year. All the work we have done supports our CONCEPTZERO policy – which promotes a zerotolerance attitude to injuries, delays, and accidents, making sure we do everything we can to prevent any of these from happening.

“This heightened focus on health and wellbeing is one we both hope, and expect, to see continue as life opens up again, and we’d be pleased to see other contractors follow in our footsteps and strive for zero LTIFR ratings too.

“Of course, the lifting of restrictions affects significantly more than just the construction sector. We’re now seeing people begin to travel across the country again, enjoying staycations and making trips for business and pleasure alike. As a business with strong expertise in the rail construction sector this is big news for us as we’re seeing a much higher footfall in railway stations.

“With a return to frequent usage by commuters, construction site

signage is more important than ever, particularly on a live site. During our recent work on Castleford Railway Station, commuters were able to continue using the station throughout works, with the railway line remaining open throughout the ten months of construction.

Therefore, a transferable platform had to be maintained at all times with clear signage and wayfinding implemented for users, as access was moved depending on the scale and location of works being completed.

This enabled us to set the standard on the project for what the signage would look like in a post-Covid world, which was really exciting.

“We’re expecting to see this type of signage used throughout the sector as we emerge into postCovid construction practices, not only within the rail industry but throughout various aspects of construction in cities, towns, and on any projects in high-footfall locations.

“It’s impossible to predict some of the changes that will occur in the dynamic and ever-changing world of construction but there are certainly some exciting lessons to be learned from the past 16 months and we’re looking forward to seeing what the post-lockdown world will present us with.”

To find out more about The Input Group, please visit www.inputgroup.co.uk or contact marketing@inputgroup.co.uk.

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September 2021

Why Specify Powder Coating

by Wojciech Brozyna - MD of Aluprof UK

Powder Coating continues to be specified as just a colour. Whilst this approach works well in many instances, especially where there is a substantial supply chain, there are instances where coatings may be applied incorrectly. If a robust specification is not in place, this could cause issues with the finish in a few years after installation.

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rchitectural powder coating is a two-step process, the cleaning and pretreatment of the aluminium and then the powder coating itself. Only when both processes are correctly specified and completed, with suitably sourced materials for the location of the project, can the project be deemed to offer a sustainable powder coating solution.

Projects often carry not just extrusions but preformed sheet pressings cills, preformed column casings and often aluminium sheet used in composite spandrel panels.

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These are often powder coated in different locations which can introduce shading issues between batches, or indeed manufacturers of different powders. To further complicate matters, should aluminium castings need to be coated, these may be coated in a further coating facility. The key to success is to discuss the finishes of various suppliers of materials and agree a common specification.

Quality control can be achieved by recognising what variations in finish might be acceptable by agreeing up front both the colour variance and gloss variance on the proposed finish. The main issue is that being prepared for potential colour variation means that this could be potentially controlled to a degree to minimise its effect.

The main parts of any powder coating specification should contain, details of the pretreatment system to be used, the colour specification, the gloss level and the class of powder to be used. If there are to be parts of the facade that are going to be coated in different plants, such as the addition of aluminium pressings or spandrel panels, the manufacturer of the powder would help further minimise colour variation.

Aluprof are licence holders of QUALICOAT, a globally recognised standard for powder coating procedure and quality. This association recognises the need for quality of the pretreatment systems, the architectural powder colours and the application quality.

The association therefore licences both producers of the powders, the pretreatment systems and applicators to ensure that quality levels are attained and maintained.

Regular inspections of QUALICOAT licence holders are undertaken by third party test houses. This is a crucial cornerstone of membership of QUALICOAT and something that Aluprof are proud to offer on all specifications.

So, starting with the pretreatment specification, sometimes referred to as a conversion coating of the aluminium, either a chrome free or chrome-based system can be used for most locations. The main aim of this pretreatment is to completely seal the aluminium substrate to stop oxidisation and also to provide a key for the powder to adhere too. Alternatively, a thin anodised finish can be used prior to powder coating which offers a more robust pretreatment. There are also variations of pretreatment options when it comes to specifying projects near the coast when a ‘Seaside’ class of pretreatment can be used which incorporates a longer or deeper aluminium etch process in its application to remove aluminium substrate contaminants.

September 2021 and suppliers. At Aluprof all our architectural advisors are experienced in both powder coating and anodised finishes so are able to advise on the correct specification.

By being aware of the potential issues that could be raised on what is the most visible aspect of an aluminium facade, the finish specification is crucial to a project being completed on time and in the right quality.

Whilst a colour specification may seem fixed, there are variances that need to be considered. Different powder manufacturers of the same RAL colour could vary in shade, indeed, even using the same powder manufacturer with different batches of powder there can be a very slight shading difference. The key here is to agree an upper and lower shading specification, if appropriate, or better still try to specify the powder manufacturer to minimise any colour variance if products are to be produced in different powder coating applicators.

In addition to colour there are a range of gloss levels available, these are generally referred to as, ‘matt’, with a 20% and 30% gloss level, ‘semi-gloss’, having approximately 60-65% gloss level and ‘full gloss’ with 80% gloss level. As with colours, gloss levels across powder manufacturers vary so care should be taken to agree upper and lower limits so that when the products are placed together there is very little variation.

Powders also come in various grades, all offer a long-life expectancy, but higher grades, or classes of powder offer greater colour fastness when subject to UV light and better gloss retention.

Gloss can be lost as a result of airborne abrasion as well as UV degradation. Typically, we see Class 1 powders used in the UK with some high rise and prestigious projects opting for more resilient Class 2

powders. Class 3 powders are generally not used in the UK and are specified in harsher environments such as in the equatorial regions.

Powder coating can also be specified to accurately replicate anodised finishes. This option is more cost effective than anodising and offers a consistent shade across all profiles. Powder coating can also be supplied using a sublimation process which offers wood grain, stone or concrete effects, in fact virtually any texture can be created.

The sublimation process is covered by a QUALIDECO licence which is part of the QUALICOAT label for special finishing.

So, the answer certainly is a yes, on any project, the architectural powder coating needs to be specified clearly, not only for the visual aspect of the finish looking correct, but for the finishes ability to offer a long and sustainable life.

Aluminium surface pretreatment or conversion coatings are crucial to this long-life expectancy. It is important to note that all powder coatings are porous and do let air and water vapour permeate through them, if a pretreatment process is poor or worse nonexistent, in time the aluminium substrate will oxidise and the powder coating will simply flake off.

As a specifier, it is important to take advice, especially when powder coated items are being source from different manufacturers

On a final point, it has been proven that not all aluminium composition is the same, especially as we begin to use more recycled content in our aluminium extrusions and this can effect the long term stability of the substrate. Trace and tramp elements present in alloys need to be carefully monitored as these can have an effect on the sustainability of the final coating. Fortunately, with today’s modern and accurate spectrometers the materials present in any alloy can be determined as well as the percentage of each material’s occurrence in the alloy as every type of alloy element has its own colour. Aluprof have very tight specifications as to what is acceptable in the bulk billet prior to extrusion to maximise a powder coated products life expectancy.

Since setting up the Aluprof Office at the Business Design Centre in London, the company has rapidly grown their specification influence in the UK with their high-performance architectural aluminium systems.

Further expansion of the company’s headquarters in Altrincham now provides specifiers with meeting facilities and an extensive showroom of commercial systems to view. With overseas growth across Europe spreading into the Middle East and firm roots already in the East of the USA, the company is becoming a global player in facade supply.

Further information is available on the company’s website at aluprof.co.uk or direct from their UK head office in Altrincham on 0161 941 4005.

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September 2021

Toupret expands its one coat offering with new interior 28 surfaces Quick Fill its

th

June 2021 28th

Toupret, the professional’s choice forToupret quality wall fillers, has expands its one coat offering with new interior surfaces Qu one coatimproved offering its with newFill interior surfaces Fill today Quick collection with aQuick new interior Toupret, the professional’s choice for quality wall fillers, has today surfaces product that is readyto-paint just minutes. its in Quick Fill30 collection with a new interior surfaces product that to-paint in just 30 minutes.

fessional’s choice for quality wall fillers, has today improved Toupret’s professional interior and exterior Quick Fill products off ollection with a new interior surfaces product that is readycoat repair. All are lightweight, ready mixed and provide a qua Toupret’s professional interior and exterior Quick Fill one professionals can rely on from a brand with over 80 years of expertis 30 minutes.

products offer a fast one coat repair. All are lightweight, new interior surfaces Quick Fill product from Toupret is fast-dryi mixed and provide a quality that professionals canThe to paint in just 30 minutes) and it can be filled to any depth with no sionalready interior and exterior Quick Fill products offer a fast or slumping.

Quick Fill is also easy to sand and there is no need to s rely on from a brand with over 80 years of expertise.

All are lightweight, ready mixed and provide a quality that before painting over it as it will not flash or grin through the p Available as a tub in either 1L or 4L sizes. There is no limit on work n relyTheonnew from a brand with over 80 years of expertise. interior surfaces Quick Fill product from Toupret ensuring a versatile solution for many types of job. is fast-drying (ready to paint in just 30 minutes) and it

surfaces Fill product from Toupret is fast-drying (ready can beQuick filled to any depth with no shrinkage or slumping.

30 minutes) and it can be filled to any depth Quick Fill is also easy to sand and there is no need to spot with no shrinkage ck Fill isbefore alsopainting easy over to itsand and is no need to spot prime prime as it will notthere flash or grin over through it as the itpaintwork. will not flash orin grin the paintwork.

Available as a tub either 1Lthrough or ub in 4L either 1L is orno4L There is no alimit on working time, sizes. There limitsizes. on working time, ensuring tile solution forfor many of job. versatile solution many types types of job.

Also, part of the one coat family but for outside repairs, is the surfaces Quick Fill product. This ready mixed, lightweight, and rea filler can be applied to cement, concrete, and masonry as well as pl old painted surfaces. It can be painted over in just one hour. It o same high qualityFillToupret of no depth limit The Quick launchfinish is partand of aperformance major rebrand shrinking or slumping. Plus, it’s rich in resin for extra strength and product reorganisation for Toupret.

The really can quickly move from job to job with the reassurance of doin and doing it well.

The exterior quick fill signified is available as a 1L and 4 exterior surfaces collection is now applications both small and large.

with an orange colourway whilst the interior surfaces range is branded in red, offering a striking shelf point of difference.

With the goal of making a great quality filling job simpler and quicker for professionals, Toupret also wanted to make it much easier for tradespeople to choose the best product for any given task. As such, many of the products have been renamed to make their application as clear as possible. However, Toupret knows part offamily the one coat for outside repairs, he oneAlso, coat butfamily forbutoutside repairs, itis the has a loyal exterior customer base and so the old is the exterior surfaces Quick Fill product.lightweight, This ready ill product.

This ready mixed, and ready use product names to remain discreetly on the lightweight, and ready to use filler can be applied plied mixed, to cement, concrete, and masonry as well as plaster and packaging to ensure familiarity for all whilst cement, concrete, and masonry as well as plaster aces. toIt can be painted over in just one hour.

It offers the product descriptions introducing new simplified and old painted surfaces. It can be painted over in just ty Toupret finish and performance of no depth limit, and – for example ‘exteriorno surfaces Quick Fill will one hour. It offers the same high quality Toupret finish mping.

Plus, it’s rich in resin for extra strength – sotheyou appear alongside historical ‘Touprelex’ and performance of no depth limit, and no shrinking ly move from job to job with the reassurance product of doing name.it once or slumping. Plus, it’s rich in resin for extra strength l. The– so exterior quick fill is available as a 1L and 4L tub for you really can quickly move from job to job with Both Quick Fill products are available to h small and large. the reassurance of doing it once and doing it well. The purchase from trade distributors nationwide. exterior quick fill is available as a 1L and 4L tub for https://www.toupret.co.uk/ applications both small and large.

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WOOD REPAIR FILLER (NATURAL) EASY TO SHAPE & QUICK DRYING ON INTERIORS & EXTERIORS     

WORKING TIME: 30 MINUTES EASY TO SAND COMPATIBLE WITH ALL PAINTS & COATINGS CAN BE DRILLED & SCREWED LOW ODOUR

TOUPRET SA - 24 rue du 14 juillet - 91813 CORBEIL ESSONNES Cedex - RCS Evry B 964 201 859 – Mise à jour Mars 2021

PURPOSE Quick drying powder filler. Great for shaping and form work on all types of wood, indoors and out.

It has no depth limit and offers excellent adhesion.

Can be stained or painted with any type of conventional paint, varnish or stain after 3 hours.

PACKAGING Box: 1kg and 2kg.

RECOMMENDATIONS and care for use The times mentioned are indicative and depend on the substrate, coat thickness, and the ambient conditions.

Do not apply at a temperature below 5°C or above 35°C nor at a relative humidity over 80%.

SUBSTRATES Wood Repair Filler can be applied to any type of wood, including common exotic species, chipboard and plywood.

For optimal results, apply Wood Hardener beforehand.

SUBSTRATES PREPARATION Substrates to be prepared as per the current trade practices.

Substrates must be hard, cohesive, clean, sound and dry.

OVERCOATING Wood Repair Filler can be overcoated by any type of conventional paints, varnishes and stains.

Physical and technical FEATURES • Wood Repair Filler: is a filler in powder form, for interior or exterior use, made of mineral extracts and selected binders.

• Characterization (NFT 36-005): Family IV - class 4c.

• Codification (NFT 30-608): G3E5S2V0W0A0C0.

• Mixing rate: add 300ml water per 1kg powder (30%).

• Application thickness: no depth limit.

• Capacity: 1kg fills 1L when mixed.

• Working time: 30 minutes.

• Setting time: second coat as soon as the filler is hard and dry to the touch.

• Overcoating: can be painted in 3 hours average time (after complete drying).

• Color: natural wood.

• Adhesion: filler/substrate (NF T 30 608): > 0.8 Mpa. USE AND STORAGE CONDITIONS  Application tools: filling knife, trowel or blade.  Tool cleaning: after use, product residue can be rubbed off tools when dry (water cleaning is not necessary).  Preservation: product guaranteed 6 months. Stored away from humidity. If found to be faulty within the guarantee period, we will arrange a replacement on proof of purchase.

TOUPRET (UK) LIMITED • CAPITAL BUSINESS CENTRE • UNIT 58, 22 CARLTON ROAD • SOUTH CROYDON CR2 0BS Tel: +44 (0)208 916 2134 • WWW.TOUPRET.CO.UK

NORMATIVE DOCUMENTS to be referred to  NFT 30-608: Coating fillers for interior works and/or exterior.

HEALTH AND SAFETY It is recommended to wear gloves and glasses while applying Wood Repair Filler.

Always wear a dust mask when sanding.

Dispose of unused product and packaging responsibly at your local waste collection centre.

Safety data sheet available at www.toupret.co.uk The data sheet information, especially the guidelines relevant to the application and final use of the product are provided in good faith and result from TOUPRET’s experience and knowledge of the products. The product should be used as per the trade practices rules book and in reference to our recommendations. The information provided is relevant to applications processed at a temperature of 20°C, a relative humidity of 50% and on average absorbency substrates.

The times mentioned are only indicative and depend on the substrate, the coat thickness, and the ambient conditions.

* Information on the emission level of volatile substances into indoor air, presenting a risk of toxicity by inhalation, on a scale from A+ (very low emissions) to C (high emissions).

September 2021

Growing demand for Finish & Exit finance key indicator of continued challenges for SME developers New research by Avamore Capital has highlighted that SME developers are continuing to face major challenges in relation to sites stalling for financial reasons.

A

year on from the 2020 FMB House Builders’ survey, which found 33% of respondents said that lending options had deteriorated YOY, and a staggering 42% stated that they were involved in sites that were stalled for financial reasons, Avamore Capital is reporting that this situation is the same, if not worse, and that demand for Finish & Exit funding is higher than ever.

A leader in principal development and bridging, Avamore has seen a 62 per cent year-on-year rise in completions of its Finish and Exit product, designed for part-built development projects; moreover, it claims indicators are that it show no signs of slowing, as the long term impact of multiple UK lockdowns remains clear.

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Further research has highlighted four key reasons that are the most prevalent, or have had long lasting effects, which have resulted in the high number of projects arresting. These include: workforce instability and skill shortages, increased material costs, forced delays impacting agreed payback periods and likelihood of exit through sales.

“Whilst the property market has been fairly resilient through the pandemic, supported by government support packages, a number of factors have meant that many developers, although they were permitted to actually build, did not have the resources available to do so,” says Philip Gould from Avamore Capital.

“Various issues driven by COVID in the last 16 months have seen many projects fall behind and hit funding challenges – meaning they can’t meet market demand.

Some developers found that they had to close sites completely with set-ups not allowing for appropriate social distancing measures, others were facing increased costs and most faced shortages of material supply. This combination meant that the number of developers obtaining cash out of their projects through sales is falling.

September 2021 “Therefore, when planning for projects – and particularly as the pandemic wages on - it is important to pre-empt these intensified financing factors, which may impact timeframes, costs and ultimately profitability, and plan differently. We advise these steps:

Managing Workforce Stability – to reduce chance of running over term The Q1 2021 Federation of Master Builders State of Trade survey highlighted that builders have reported increased difficulties in recruiting almost all the key trades in the first quarter of 2021. 38% reported bricklayer shortages, up from 22% in Q4 2020, and 34% are struggling to hire carpenters/joiners, up from 23%. The report attributes this to a lack of quality skilled entrants to the industry and increased loyalty to current employers.

“This means that projects could take much longer to recruit for than ever before and so, we may see more developers starting all of their processes earlier in order to ensure a strong construction team” says Gould.

“Around 10% of the part-built schemes Avamore has funded in 2021 have reported that difficulties arose directly from being unable to secure a strong workforce upfront. Therefore from a financing side, the danger of not setting up the correct infrastructure means that projects could take longer than planned and so, the developer could run over term.”

facility or come to the end of their term. Any development loan is issued for a set amount of time and most lenders will be looking to be repaid as soon as that period has come to an end. It is therefore likely that most developers had to negotiate with their funding partners across 2020 to avoid a formal ‘default scenario’.

“Whilst the lending market may have been relatively lenient at the start of the pandemic, it’s unlikely that relying on short term funding flexibility will remain a prudent strategy. Developers need to stick to a timeframe but also factor in the potential that the pandemic and Brexit is likely to continue to have an impact on many industries.

“It is therefore important for developers to have conversations with funders upfront about the possible scenarios they could face over the life of a loan.”

Whilst Avamore Capital adopts a careful lending strategy, in the last four weeks it has extended £2,762,802 worth of loans for an average of seven months after developers faced COVID driven delays during the build and now need additional time to sell the units.

“Discussing options at the outset such as informal extensions, conditional extensions or reduced extension fees would be prudent to ensure that should the unexpected occur, developers are prepared to finish their project in a cost-effective way”, adds Gould.

Review current material costs – so financing forecasts are based on real time pricing

Secure an exit - determining the stability of the end user is more important than ever

According to the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) the overall cost of materials for new housing was 6.7% higher in January 2021 than in the same month in 2020. Another example is from the Timber Trade Federation (TTF) which found that a range of ongoing logistical and administrative difficulties related to Brexit have led to supply problems and price rises.

“A strong exit strategy has always been important but considering the volatility of the market and economic uncertainty, it is likely that circumstances at the end of projects are becoming increasingly less predictable. As the stamp duty reduction comes to an end the market is likely to be impacted.

Gould advises: “With supply chain issues and costs creeping upwards, it increasingly difficult for developers to effectively plan their cash flow schedules.

“14% of part-built projects Avamore supported in Q2 2021 required specialist structures to maximise funds available as soon as the loan completed; this was for the developer to cover the cost of urgent materials on site.

In development finance, a contingency is always added to the loan (a pot designed for unknown costs which developers might face), but it is advisable it should be avoided or utilised as late into the project as possible.

Fixed price contracts for future materials or using suppliers who offer the certainty of delivery has become more important than ever. “

Consider delays and discuss loan extension options upfront “With the impacts of delays and costs, developers may have either run out of their existing development finance

“In Q1 2021, the average price of a unit completed by an Avamore borrower was £426,258. With the stamp duty threshold at £500,000 the number of potential buyers for those same projects is likely to have reduced by September this year when the scheme closes completely.

“It is clear that the government has implemented measures to plug this potential shortfall at the lower end of the market, policies such as the 95% LTV mortgages will continue to make house buying attractive but, it is almost impossible to determine whether these measures, which involve borrowing more, will have the same impact as significant cost savings.

“Understanding the end user and determining their stability is therefore more important than ever.”

Gould adds: “It’s important that everyone involved in the industry prepares for new challenges, including how projects can be financed and rescued should problems arise.” https://avamorecapital.com/

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September 2021

Stunning Traditional Property Given New Life With Express Bi-Folding Doors How this spectacular home was transformed with new Express Bi-Folding Doors and windows to us with their vision for their home renovations, we knew we’d be able to bring their dreams to life.

“We provided expert product knowledge to the client throughout, from our fantastic sales team guiding them through the ideal product selection from our comprehensive portfolio, to an on-site surveyor to assess the unique property specifications, and of course, our skilled contractors to make it all a reality.”

Scenic Casement Windows Background The owners of this traditional detached property in Surrey wanted to replace their existing timber windows and doors with aluminium to not only refresh the look of the home but also benefit from maintenance-free doors and windows.

They employed a local design practice to assist with the home’s upgrade, which included removing an old conservatory and replacing with a pitched roof extension to create an open plan kitchen and dining area that would connect with the large rear garden.

With these plans in place, the homeowners and architect visited the EBD (Express Bi-Folding Doors) showroom in Redhill to get a feel for their products and to discuss the project with an experienced sales team.

What Express Bi-Folding Doors Delivered Steve Bromberg, Managing Director at Express BiFolding Doors, said: “When the homeowners came

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The renovations started by ripping out the existing timber windows and replacing with EBD’s sleek aluminium windows. The Scenic casement windows they manufacture are perfect for replacement installations and new-build homes, boasting slim and equal sightlines for that added touch of flawlessness.

Clean lines and stunning finishes are complemented further by minimal maintenance, as EBD’s customers get added peace of mind due to their celebrated design accreditations and superb thermal performance, with an energy rating of A++ and overall U values as low as 1.

French And Bi-Folding Doors Due to the size of the property, EBD installed various single and French doors throughout. However, the home’s rear elevation benefitted most, with EBD utlising three XP View bi-folding doors to stunning effect.

The kitchen extension contains full height glazing on its three elevations. A six panel bi-fold door runs the full width of the space, while the larger return can

September 2021

be completely opened also with a three panel bifold complete with everyday access door, which is mirrored on the smaller return by a matching side door.

Coupled with Velux rooflights in the pitched roof, the full height folding doors ensure that the kitchen is bathed in natural light, whilst drinking in the beautiful Surrey countryside. The doors meet on two corners, fixed to two structural steel posts. After the installation was complete, EBD measured and installed bespoke, insulated aluminium pressings to minimise the thickness of the steel and to ensure a cohesive look to the three separate doors, which form the glazed perimeter of the new extension.

Adjacently, the warm and comfortable snug area complete with stove fire and drape curtains contains two sets of French doors that flank a four-panel bifolding door. This is a truly year-round room that can be dark, private and cosy throughout the winter or an evening, and light, airy and literally part of the garden during a family BBQ or through the Spring and Summer months.

Integral Blinds Electronically operated integral blinds add to the contemporary twist added to this home. Alleviating the need for curtains, the blinds are operated by remote control to either manage the sunlight, or close completely for privacy. Manual-operated sliding blinds have been used throughout in the casement windows also.

Steve commented: “Integral blinds are perfect for bi-folding doors, as they fold away with the doors when they’re opened and never require cleaning because they don’t gather dust or moisture, making them perfect for windows in kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms.”

Welcoming Entrance Doors Finally, EBD manufactured and installed one of their distinctive Premium entrance doors; the finishing touch to this contemporary renovation. The ‘Caverrostyle’ front door immediately added a modern twist to this traditional home, hinting towards the renewed and fresh feel visitors will see once inside.

Steve stated: “We offer two ranges of quality front doors; our Premium range, like the one utilised on this project, and our more cost-effective ‘XP77’ range. Available in bespoke sizes, any colour and a range of characteristic designs, our front entrance doors are the perfect design statement when setting out the tone of your home.”

The homeowners were delighted with the finished results. The home has kept its warmth, charm and character, but feels modern and secure. The rear elevation ticks all the boxes for today’s home renovations trends: light and open spaces, insideoutside living, views out to the garden and beyond, as well as a seamless connection to the outside space. A beautifully renovated home that is perfectly suited to be enjoyed twelve months a year.

If you want to find out how Express’ new products can transform your home, visit www.expressbifolds.co.uk.

Products Used • • •

• •

Scenic Windows – Various sizes throughout.

Caverro Style Premium Entrance Door – 940mm x 2110mm XP View bi-folding doors – 5164mm x 2100mm (six panels) 3104mm x 2100mm (three panels) 3394mm x 2112mm (four panels) Electronically operated Uniblinds in the bi-folding doors.

Manual operated SV Uniblinds in the aluminium windows.

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September 2021

Regal London acquires new Hackney plot for residential-led mixed-use scheme Mixed-use developer continues acquisitive period with seventh Hackney project. £65m scheme on Warburton Road to incorporate residential and commercial space to benefit local area.

I

t has acquired the plot with planning permission already granted for 59 housing units and 26,500 sq ft floorspace for commercial use. Work is due to commence on site in Q3 2021 with completion targeted in Q1 2024.

Regal London’s vision is for a £65m scheme that will comprise 22 onebed units, 24 twobed units and 13 three-bed units, all of which are configured around a central internal courtyard that allows for good levels of natural light for residents.

Each flat and communal space will also benefit from large private balconies, and the development provides secure cycle parking spaces.

The existing Laundry Building was constructed in the 1960s and has direct frontages onto Warburton Road, Mentmore Terrace and Sidworth Street. In keeping with Regal London’s focus on regeneration areas, in recent years London Fields has undergone an urban renaissance with small scale artisan bakers, coffee shops and wholefood stores recently opened in the immediate vicinity.

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Simon De Friend, Joint Founder of Regal London, commented: “This is another exciting acquisition in an area that we’ve played a key role in transforming in recent years. We look forward to adding to the extensive work we’ve done to date within London Borough of Hackney.

Our plans for Warburton Road will create a development that complements and benefits the local area and its community via our commercial workspace and the provision of much-needed housing.

This is Regal London’s seventh site in Hackney, and follows the recently completed Shoreditch Exchange development on nearby Hackney Road.

“We will continue to acquire strategic sites across the city that support our mixed-use capabilities and capitalise on our expertise in regeneration projects, creating developments in the process that reflect the diversity, vibrance and history of London. Despite the challenges posed by Covid-19, our land acquisition strategy remains constant and our integrated model has proved hugely resilient during this period.”

As part of Regal London’s commitment to sustainability, commercial units will achieve BREEAM Excellent. In addition to the physical impact of the scheme, the company is also looking to offer opportunities to those in the local community, for example, 10% of the commercial floorspace will be provided as affordable. CIL contributions for the scheme total over £1.25m.

Regal London, one of London’s leading residential-led mixed-use developers, has completed its acquisition of the Laundry Building site on Warburton Road, near to London Fields in Hackney. The developer, who also recently announced its purchase of land near Wembley Stadium for a £270m scheme, has continued its acquisitive period and remains confident about further growth.

September 2021

Land & Water Completes Dredging Works at Peel Marina in the Isle of Man Leading wet civil engineers Land & Water has completed dredging works on behalf of the Isle of Man Government as part of a wider three-year project which has removed over 22,000m3 of silt from Peel Marina. This has helped to significantly improve the water depths, improving the marina’s access and functionality for years to come.

Having previously removed approx. 40% of silt last year, using its specialist plant including long reach excavators on floating barges, Land & Water has now dredged the remaining materials between March and May this year.

All silt has been transported to the drying lagoon which was constructed and lined by Land & Water last spring for storage and dewatering.

The lagoon was carefully constructed to meet specific requirements, meaning that any remaining heavy metals and other contaminants can be safely contained. Now that the dredging is complete, the material will be allowed to dry before being removed to a licensed facility. The former greenfield site will then be returned to its original state.

Charlie Oakes, Project Manager at Land & Water, said: “We are pleased to have completed this groundbreaking three-year project and to have supported the Isle of Man Government in its all-important venture to safeguard Peel Marina.

“Having returned to the island in February this year, during the Isle of Man’s third national lockdown, I would like to thank the dedicated Land & Water project team who were willing to travel and stay away from their homes and families to ensure we could continue delivering high quality services to improve and maintain waterways across every part of the UK. “Going above and beyond for our clients is something that we pride ourselves on at Land & Water and I am proud to have witnessed the strength and commitment from the project team during such challenging circumstances.”

The Peel Marina dredging project was only one of two major contracts to be allowed to continue working on the Isle of Man during the previous lockdown period.

The Land & Water team complied with all Coronavirus guidelines by self-isolating on the island beforehand and taking the required Covid-19 tests.

After showing its resilience and ability to adapt working methods to meet the ongoing Coronavirus restrictions, Land & Water has re-established the efficiency of Peel Marina for the future.

The Peel Marina project is vital to the local community; this work promises to ease pressures put on the marina, ensuring that it is restored to its correct level for access and operation. This will continue to bring real economic benefits to Peel. With the works split across two phases, every stage of this project was carefully considered and structured to safely handle the materials removed from this site. Land & Water is proud to have contributed to a project which promises to bring about such positive change.

Visit www.land-water.co.uk for more details.

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September 2021

Japanese Knotweed: It’s Knot to be Ignored Earlier this year, we shared information on litigation cases surrounding Japanese knotweed.

In this editorial we provide advice on assessing and undertaking appropriate remedial work to either control or remove Japanese knotweed prior to developing a site and avoid potential litigation or environmental issues.

If knotweed is handled incorrectly, it could result in a long-term problem for the developer and landowner.

Where the presence of Japanese knotweed affecting the site is suspected, due diligence should be undertaken. Arrange an inspection/ survey of the site by a PCA CSJK qualified surveyor. They will provide accurate identification of knotweed and a remedial works assessment.

Japanese Knotweed Removal Options There are various options for Japanese knotweed removal, all of which can benefit from our Insurance Backed Guarantee The Environment Agency states that once you find Japanese knotweed on a development site, it is essential that you produce a Knotweed Management Plan (KMP). The findings of the CSJK qualified surveyor including site plans, photos, and knotweed descriptions are detailed in the KMP along with an assessment of the appropriate remedial methods for the site.

The costs of removing Japanese knotweed can be kept to a minimum if it is identified and removed promptly.

Excavation is the best way to achieve complete knotweed removal and is the only way to ensure total removal.

The appropriate excavation and waste disposal method will depend on access, site restrictions, development timescales and importantly the proposed development plan.

Knotweed Herbicide Control Options Folia or Stem Injection Herbicide Treatment Where there is no planned disturbance of the knotweed area and it is desirable for knotweed to be treated long term (over several years), then in-situ herbicide treatment can be considered.

Sustained treatment can damage the plant sufficiently to prevent it from producing above ground growth and guarantees can be provided to guard against any recurrence of above ground growth.

This is a cost-effective control method, but it does not remove the plant’s underground knotweed rhizomes from the soils of the site, which may remain in a viable but dormant state following successful treatment.

Disturbance of the ground containing the rhizome during or even after treatment can cause the knotweed to re-grow. The ground remains knotweed-contaminated requiring careful management and if any affected soils are removed from site, they will still be classed as controlled waste.

Herbicide treatment methods include stem injection, folia herbicide spraying and leaf wiping. Our herbicide programmes are packaged within a 10-year Herbicide Knotweed Management Plan complete with Insurance Backed Guarantee.

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Onsite Burial of Japanese Knotweed

However, if there is a proposed change of land use for the knotweed

area you should excavation method.

consider

an

Knotweed Excavation and Waste Disposal Options Mechanical Excavation & Removal of Knotweed Waste from Site to Landfill The PCA Knotweed Code of Practice states that this should be considered as the method of last resort. Waste haulage and landfill disposal creates environmental impacts and can be expensive. However, complete excavation and offsite disposal does provide a hassle-free rectification of the knotweed problem. Leaving the site free to develop on completion and free of knotweed, which is often an attractive end position, especially to housing developers.

Mechanical Excavation & On-Site Waste Relocation for Herbicide Treatment Where there is sufficient space on site sustainable waste disposal solutions can be considered, such as relocation.

This includes excavating knotweed from an undesirable position and relocating it to location where is can be kept long term undisturbed and treated with herbicide. Where there is suitable space (e.g., public open space) this can be a cost-effective solution to eradicate knotweed from development works footprints.

Mechanical Excavation & On-Site Cell Burial Another sustainable remedial process is where the excavated knotweed is buried deep on-site in a location where it will not be disturbed.

The buried waste will need to be encapsulated in root barrier (to form the cell) with the top of the cell residing at least 2 metres below finished ground levels, covered with clean fill. The 2m depth is a precaution against future accidental human or animal (burrowing) disturbance.

Land Remediation Tax Relief for sustainable remediation methods Land Remediation Tax Relief (LRTR) can be claimed for disposing of excavated knotweed on-site such as

September 2021 the relocation, cell-burial, or herbicide methods. LRTR can provide up to 150% capital gains tax relief.

would have resorted to hand digging.

This area of works was completed with root barrier capping.

Example of Works Undertaken

Japanese Knotweed Removal

Recently, we worked for a large UK housebuilder to remediate Japanese knotweed and other invasive weeds in southern England. We worked alongside Ecologists, Demolition contractors and Archaeologists during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Japanese knotweed locations were carefully and fully excavated to remove knotweed rhizomes.

Care was taken to ensure we only removed knotweed contaminated ground, thus reducing the overall waste volumes and project costs.

Working for You, Whatever the Weather During the works, there was torrential rain, making excavating and moving equipment and contaminated soil around the site much more challenging.

Knotweed: Do’s and Don’ts

Summary • Acted as Principal contractor (working to CDM regulations).

• Worked with Ecologist to protect hibernating reptiles.

• Co-ordinated with Archaeological works.

• Enabled demolition works and dealing with unmarked underground services.

• Worked within tree root protection zones.

• Implemented our management plan for the excavating and treatment of invasive weeds.

Working with Other Contractors The onsite knotweed measured over 125m2, and we were unable to freely move our plant and equipment across site due to presence of hibernating reptiles.

There was discovery of unmarked underground services within knotweed contaminated areas.

These areas had to be hand dug to fully expose the services and allow inspection for removal of the knotweed in this area.

There were tree protection zones within the site where we mechanically scraped and excavated under Watching Brief of an Arboricultural Consultant. We carefully scraped layers of ground, an inch at a time. If we had encountered tree roots, we

Hand-Digging to Expose Unmarked Services

Site Plan Showing Knotweed Areas

The knotweed contaminated waste once removed from site was classed as controlled waste and removed via registered waste carriers to a specifically licensed landfill facility for disposal. In total, we removed over 720 tonnes of knotweed waste from site.

Other Onsite Invasive Plants In addition to Japanese knotweed, there was also Rhododendron ponticum and Himalayan balsam onsite, both of which are listed as invasive species within the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981, Section 14, Schedule 9, part 2.

We cut down the Rhododendron, opening up the densely vegetated area. The cut stumps of the Rhododendron were treated by drilling and installing Ecoplugs (capsules) to provide slow-release herbicide delivery into the plants.

The balsam was growing within a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) area and the use of herbicide for control was not permitted. Therefore, we hand-pulled the balsam before the plant could flower and produce seeds, thus controlling and preventing its spread. Both the Rhododendron and balsam works are long-term, where we will conduct repeat monitoring and treatments for several years to gain control of the invasive plants.

• Where possible, all areas affected

by Japanese knotweed should be fenced off and isolated from any activities on site immediately, to avoid potential knotweed spread.

The fencing should be erected at least 7 metres away from any visible knotweed growth to protect rhizome disturbance.

• No material is to leave site from the knotweed areas, except as part of specially supervised knotweed treatment works. No new materials should be stored in or adjacent to Japanese knotweed areas.

• Where there is a high risk of knotweed infestation from neighbouring land, contact the landowner and agree on a coordinated treatment programme.

• Any presence of knotweed off-site can present the likely potential for re-infestation of the site across site boundaries.

Contact the Japanese Knotweed Experts Japanese Knotweed Ltd is a SafetyFirst, PCA, national knotweed company, with industry-leading expertise and an annual turnover of £4.6m.

In 2020 we delivered approximately 150 excavation projects and we currently have over 6,000 herbicide customers, completing approximately 8,000 herbicide programme treatment visits annually.

T: 01794 339866 E: marketing@knotweed.co.uk W: japaneseknotweed.co.uk

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September 2021

Titon FireSafe® Air Brick Blackhorse View, Walthamstow Development: Residential Site: Blackhorse View, Walthamstow Housing Developer: Barratt Homes Supplier: Miers Construction Products Completion Date: 2021 Titon Product: Titon FireSafe® Air Brick – Double Air Brick

T

iton Ventilation Systems new Fire Safe Air Brick® has recently been installed in the new Blackhorse View residential development.

Blackhorse View situated in Walthamstow is a brand new development from Barratt London of 350 new homes in East London. The development offers one, two and three bedroom apartments which includes a private outdoor area where residents will be able to enjoy the communal gardens.

Miers Construction Products who have an expansive range of building products in their portfolio, supplied the Titon FireSafe® Air Brick to the Blackhorse View project.

The Titon FireSafe® Air Brick is a specialist product developed and manufactured by offering low resistance to airflow, but high resistance to fire as set out in Approved Document B (fire safety) volume 1: Dwellings, 2019 edition.

Commenting on the partnership with Titon and Miers Construction Products, Laura French, Area Sales Manager stated: “Miers Construction Products required a solution that Titon was able to offer. The Titon FireSafe® Air Brick was developed following a tightness of construction standards following the tragedy of Grenfell. Laura continued to say “It’s been a pleasure working with Miers Construction Products and supporting their expert knowledge within the industry.”

The Titon FireSafe® Air Brick is designed and tested to BS EN131412:2010 specifically for mechanical ventilation systems. Made from 1mm electrogalvanized sheet steel, fire class A1 ‘no contribution to fire’ and polyester powder coating meeting EN13501-1 classification A2-s1,d0.

The Titon Titon FireSafe® Air Brick is ideal for fire safety applications.

Miers Construction Products Limited is an independent supplier of extensive products delivering from a number of locations across the UK.

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THE ORIGINAL

LOW RESISTANCE METAL AIR BRICK

Titon FireSafe Air Brick ®

The Titon FireSafe® Air Brick Range is a unique non-combustible high flow terminal designed for powered ventilation systems. Offering low resistance to airflow, but high resistance to fire as set out in Approved Document B (fire safety) volume 1: Dwellings, 2019 edition.

Constructed from sheet steel (A1) and polyester powder coated to classification A2-s1, d0, the Titon FireSafe® Air Brick is designed to be built into external wall types during construction.

• Material 1mm electrogalvanized sheet steel, fire class A1 ‘no contribution to fire’

• Corrosion resistance - salt spray tested to BS EN ISO 9227:2012

• Designed for both 204x60 & 220x90 ducting

• Special paint finishes available depending on quantity

• Polyester powder coating meeting EN13501-1 classification A2-s1,d0

• Subject related CIBSE approved CPD available

• Performance tested to BS EN13141-2:2010

• Sizes 204x60 and 330x60, with depths of 100, 400 and 500 available. In standard or bezelled options

• Extensive versatile range for different installation options

• Optional lengths available at request

www.titon.com/firesafe

Exhibits thoughtful, well-executed design and luxury

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We are the UK’s trusted Japanese knotweed treatment and remediation company with a proven track record in working successfully for local authorities, developers, construction companies and private landowners.

SAiGE Longlife Decking Ltd are proud of the high quality composite products that we supply to the UK, Irish and European Markets.

www.japaneseknotweed.co.uk contact@knotweed.co.uk T: 0333 2414 413

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