Home Designer & Architect - August 2020

HOME-DESIGNER AND ARCHITECT

MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

The Covid-19 pandemic has had a massive effect on all walks of life he electric heating industry is no exception and with access to properties required to complete either repairs or new installation works it presents a significant challenge during the lockdown periods. It is likely for some occupiers that this will be an ongoing situation dependant on their personal circumstances and the nature of the required works.

T

The heating industry and EHC have always adopted responsible working practices in relation to Health and Safety and will endeavour to mitigate any risks associated with Covid-19.

At EHC we pride ourselves on our good working practices and accordingly are taking the necessary steps to ensure our supply chain which includes Accredited Installers comply with any steps we deem necessary to protect our client base.

Choosing the correct heating system for your home is an integral part of the journey and as such EHC are developing a Virtual Showroom to showcase our product range and assist those who may still be shielding from the effects of Covid-19.

The benefits of this exciting new tool ensure customers can, by using the power of augmented reality technology and their smart devices, place a rendition of each Solaris Electric Heater model in true scale in their home or office settings.

This pioneering technology allows users to both understand the ideal size of the Solaris 500W, 1000W, 1500W, 2000W and by the clever use of their smart devices also see this represented on their actual decorated room surroundings, all from the comfort of their own environment!

This contactless provides another considered layer in which EHC have invested to maintain and ensure our home-based

customers can still access these hugely popular and essential items for their homes.

The Solaris is a bestselling modern, slim, stylish and carefully sized Convector Heater which has been designed with a gentle curved front that will enhance any room within the home whilst providing a quick and responsive heating experience.

It is supplied with a 13A UK Plug and simply plugged in for a DIY Installation or alternatively it can be spur wired to the Heating circuit throughout the property.

The State of the Art easy to use DSR Controller, located on the front of the Heater for ease of use, can be controlled for both time and temperature either manually or wirelessly when using the optional EHC Smart APP Gateway. The Intelligent Temperature Control system has been designed to reduce energy bills and maximise controllability.

It is manufactured using high grade 100% recyclable Aluminium. The front air outlet located at the top of the Heater ensures that the heat emitted is pushed into the room to prevent hotspots and wasted energy at ceiling height. This feature also prevents scorch marks to protect your décor.

The heat source is provided by high quality elements located at the base of the Panel Heater and within the refractory ceramic blocks which also generate high thermal inertia for a fast response and added comfort.

It can also be used as a free-standing Heater if you purchase the optional Feet.

To try out the DSR Solaris Virtual Experience, www.electric-heatingcompany.co.uk/ electric-radiators/dsr-solarisheaters/ on a mobile device. Click here for further details or call 01698 820533 to speak to our Sales Team.

Visit our website to learn more about our events for Architects, Building Designers and Specifiers. www.kingspantimbersolutions.co.uk

Kingspan Timber Solutions ... providing so much more than just a timber frame structure.

Design with the

Kingspan ULTIMA Build Sytem

Timber Frame & SIPs Build Systems Structural Engineering Appraisals Technical Support Service Energy Efficient Building Fabric Solutions U-Value Calculations Systems Fully Fire Certificated SAP Assessments Energy Performance Certification

Call us on 01767 676400 Learn more at www.kingspantimbersolutions.co.uk

HOME-DESIGNER AND ARCHITECT

CONTENTS August 2020 4 12 20 38 48

Industry News Doors & Windows Heating Bathrooms Paints

56 Sustainability 66 External Works and Landscaping 72 Recommended Suppliers

CONtact US Ben Pritchard

Publication Manager

Jenna Burridge Editor

01843 581364

ben@homedesignerandarchitect.co.uk

01843 595818

jenna@homedesignerandarchitect.co.uk

Industry news

Bates Smart completes skyscraper that’s only 11.5 metres wide Australian architecture firm Bates Smart has built a skinny skyscraper named Collins House in Melbourne that’s 184 metres tall and just 11.5 metres wide at its slimmest point.

T

he apartment building has a footprint the size of a single netball court and has a heightto-width ratio of 16:1. According to Bates Smart this makes skyscraper is Australia’s slimmest tower and the third slimmest skyscraper in the world.

Amenities for Collins House include a residents’ club on the 27th floor with a private dining room, a gym and a car stacking system with space for 108 vehicles. A terrace on the third floor features an open-air bar.

The tower was built above the 1908 Makers Mark building that has an 11-metre-wide ornate facade on Collins Street.

The building extends up from behind this facade, which has been retained, and then cantilevers four and a half metres out on one side over an existing 11-storey office building next door.

side meaning that all of the floor plates are column-free.

A herringbone pattern is picked out in white frames around all four sides of the tower’s glazed facade.

tension beams and a facade that was already installed. Precast stairs were built off-site.

Bates Smart used a modular system of prefabricated parts to speed up construction and facilitate building on such a compact site between existing buildings.

Bates Smart estimates that this method saved up to four days per floor in construction, bringing the overall timeframe down from 40 months to just 30.

“It is the first superslim residential tower in Australia designed using modular components,” said Bates Smart managing director Simon Swaney. “A solution that enabled construction on a site that was previously deemed undevelopable.”

The architecture studio hopes that Collins House is a demonstration of how superslim towers can be built in similarly constrained sites in other cities.

Prefabrication specialists Hickory developed a system of precast panels and components built in situ that did not require a jumpform – a working platform that is moved up the building as it is built.

Australian developer Golden Age bought the air rights above this building to allow the development to happen.

Using a single tower crane and one hoist, precast storeys were craned into place, each level taking two to three hours to install.

The floors of Collins House have an H-shaped plan, with the lifts pushed to the

Each storey was comprised of a 150-millimetre-thick floor, precast post-

•04•

Bates Smart, which was founded in 1853, is due to completr the new Australian embassy in Washington DC in 2022.

Another skinny tower projects pushing the limits of architecture is 111 West 57th by SHoP Architects in New York. Due to top out at 433 metres tall and 13 metres wide when it completes, it will have a height-towidth ratio of 24:1.

New York has so many skinny towers under construction that the city’s Skyscraper Museum has built an online tracker to chart them.

Industry news

WORCESTER BOSCH RAISES OVER £8,000 IN NHS FUNDRAISING RAFFLE The company has matched a £4,096.38 raffle amount, so £8,192.76 will be donated to NHS Charities Together

Both winners chose to give forward, donating prizes to local NHS workers or holding their own fundraisers to raise additional donations.

Leading boiler manufacturer Worcester Bosch has donated a total of £8,192.76 to NHS Charities Together this month, after a recent raffle for two limited-edition rainbow-coloured boilers was held.

The winners were picked by fundraising powerhouse Olivia Strong, founder of the Run for Heroes 5k Challenge that has to date raised over £7 million for the NHS, via a live Zoom draw.

Two winners were announced: •

Will Stone Gas Plumbing and Heating, Lymington

•

South Manchester Heating, Chorlton

Both companies, who will each receive a limited-edition version of the brand’s most popular boiler – the Greenstar i, have offered to either give away their boiler to a local NHS worker, or will run their own giveaway charity event.

The boilers are wrapped in two unique rainbow designs, inspired by the symbol the country has been using to celebrate the work of the NHS.

Francesca Renouf-Stone, Office Manager at Will Stone Plumbing said; “We’re looking forward to receiving our limited-edition boiler. We are hoping to give it away for free to a local NHS worker as another thank you for the essential work they do for our community.”

Victoria Billings, Director of Marketing at Worcester Bosch said; “We are delighted to have been able to raise thousands to help support the incredible work NHS Charities Together are doing on behalf of the NHS. “We’d like to thank all those who entered our raffle and contributed to this amazing figure and of course congratulate our two winners!”

•05•

Industry news

Peter Morris Architects covers Cloud House in pink arches Peter Morris Architects covers Cloud House in pink arches loud House, which is actually a pair of three-storey homes united behind a pink-archcovered facade, is set to be built in Gospel Oak after winning planning permission earlier this month.

C

Peter Morris Architects designed the pair of houses, one of which will be its founder Peter Morris’ own home, to bring an element of fun to the street it will be located on.

“The goal was to create a building that would bring joy and delight to the neighbourhood,” Morris told Dezeen.

“Something that would feel like a surprising treat for anyone who came upon it, as well as to create a beautiful home for my family to live in, alongside one for someone else to buy.”

Cloud House by Peter Morris Architects in Gospel Oak, North London The home will be built between a heritagelisted school and a modern, brick home on a street that has buildings in a variety of architecture styles.

It was the arches at St Martin’s Church, which stands opposite the site and was referred to by architectural writer Nicholas Pevsner as “the craziest of London’s Victorian churches”, that informed the houses’ many arches.

Cloud House by Peter Morris Architects in Gospel Oak, North London “I know it’s not generally a very fashionable idea in architecture, but I love the idea that a building can be decorated on its outside as well as on its inside,” said Morris.

“The arches on The Cloud House mostly aren’t structural, but their decorative sculptural quality informs the whole look and feel of the building.”

“Once I’d had the idea of exploring the arch shape which appears both in the interiors and exteriors of St Martin’s Church opposite, it made sense to modernise

•06•

and simplify that shape and then use it unapologetically, absolutely everywhere.”

Cloud House by Peter Morris Architects in Gospel Oak, North London Morris arranged the pink arches, which will cover all four facades of the house, through a process of trial and error.

“More than three years ago, when I first began the drawings, I started to play around with the pattern of arches. I

staggered them, cut them in half in places, doubled them in size in others,” explained Morris.

Cloud House by Peter Morris Architects in Gospel Oak, North London “Some were solid, others became glazed.

I added circular windows in various spots.

The decision not to flatten the top of the arches was key, as that created the curves in the balustrades,” he continued.

industry news

facades, pale pink arches will be combined pale green metalwork.

Inside, the floors will be made from paleblue poured resin, pink and white marquee stripes will run across the walls and ceilings and the kitchens will be emerald green with black and white terrazzo worktops.

Cloud House by Peter Morris Architects in Gospel Oak, North London “The buildings in the street range from red brick to yellow brick, with various buff tones in between, not least in the ragstone facade of the school next door and the church over the road,” said Morris.

“It isn’t a street with just one colour, so the choice of pale pink render with a yellowy hue complements the other buildings, without trying to match them,” he continued.

“Once we’d chosen the pale pink tone, it felt right to pair it with pale green metalwork – they’re colours that I’ve always loved, and they remind me of our honeymoon in Miami.”

Morris believes that the colourful, fun architecture will be appropriate for a family home.

“The design happened like a game of consequences. Each decision changed the design, but at every stage, the house grew curvier and prettier and managed to reinforce the original concept, which was to create a joyful building that would surprise and delight.”

Cloud House by Peter Morris Architects in Gospel Oak, North London Both of the houses have been designed as upside-down homes, with bedrooms on the

lower floors and living spaces on the upper floors. Each house will be topped with a roof terrace and the large one will include a plunge pool.

The arched forms on the houses’ facade will continue within the homes, which will include arched doorways and barrelvaulted ceilings.

Both the exterior and interior colour scheme for the homes was drawn from the Art Deco architecture of Miami. On the

“I like fabulous spaces that are a joy to look at and a pleasure to inhabit, buildings that make you feel good and prompt a smile,” he said. “I think that spaces that make you feel a little bit like you have to be on your best behaviour can, of course, be wonderful, but this was about making a home for my family – a place for laughter and creativity and daftness. I crave more diversity in design.”

The bright home is one of many colourful buildings that are being built in London as part of a trend called New London Fabulous, which was identified by designer Adam Nathaniel Furman during Virtual Design Festival.

•07•

Industry news

COMPLIANT DOOR CLOSING A door closer is a mechanical device that reduces the physical burden of opening and shutting doors, and can be housed above, beneath or within the door unit. oor closers play a crucial role across many commercial buildings, yet despite this, many building owners remain unaware of their importance, which could be contributing to inadequate specification choices. Here, David Saxby, Senior Category Manager at IronmongeryDirect, highlights some of the key considerations for specifiers as well as some recommended solutions.

D

Approved Document B (Fire safety) in England and Wales, Section 2 in Scotland and Part E in Northern Ireland, require fire doors to be fitted with a minimum ‘power size 3’, CE accredited self-closing device that will reliably close the door within 25 seconds to prevent the spread of flames and smoke in the event of a fire.

For common installation situations, the ‘Lever on Rose Fire Door Kit’ offers a simple, cost effective solution for building owners. It provides all the required CE marked hardware and components necessary, including hinges, overhead door closer, sashlock, levers, intumescent seals and even signage. Different kits are available dependent on the requirements of the door - such as heavy or light duty.

A building must be designed and constructed in a way that allows everyone to move freely - in line with the Equality Act 2010. This means that door closers need to reliably close, without having such a force that would prevent anyone with a

disability from opening the door, or restrict day to day access for any group of users.

The Arrone AR3500 is one of the most trusted and economical solutions for an overhead closer. With an adjustable power size 2-4, it is ideal for medium use areas and is compliant with the Equality Act, suitable for living accommodation and office corridors.

The Rutland TS9205 is a slim-line, power adjustable heavy duty arm door closer with an architectural finish. With a 120-minute

fire rating, this overhead closer is ideal for use in student accommodations, as well as in office corridors, hotels and public buildings.

The Arrone AR3500 Door Closer and Rutland TS9205 Door Closer both feature a delayed action option that slows down the closing speed of the door, making it ideal for prams or wheelchair access. For durability, the backcheck function on both products offers resistance when the door is opened with excessive force, preventing damage to doors, making these ideal for high traffic areas and affording building owners with a longer door lifecycle.

For more guidance, please read IronmongeryDirect’s Fire Door Checklist: www.ironmongerydirect.co.uk/ fire-door-checklist

•08•

autosizing feature name

Our new Click & Collect service goes that little bit further.

We now deliver to your local shops. Simply select Click & Collect when you place your order and have it delivered within a 10 minute drive from your home or next job, when it suits you.

Exclusions apply. See website for details.

CALL: 7am-8pm 7 days a week

0808 168 28 28 ONLINE: Shop 24/7

IronmongeryDirect.co.uk

When it comes to allocating time and budget to self-build projects, the unassuming, often-forgotten loft is one area which, if carefully planned from the outset, can end up being the most striking and coveted space in a new home. nce considered the place for storing luggage, there’s now a host of products which can help you transform your loft space into an enviable, spacious and daylight-filled room. And there are some products in particular that deliver truly exceptional results.

O

Grant Sneddon, product manager at roof window manufacturer VELUX, explains more: “To make a loft space work, those building their own home need to consider how much daylight and fresh air they need for their loft and work with their architect to design their space with this in mind. Even some of the smallest spaces can be turned into useable and enjoyable rooms to live in if these two elements are prioritised during the planning phase.

“At VELUX all our roof windows are designed to maximise daylight and fresh air, helping customers create healthier indoor environments. And where there’s space to do so, the VELUX roof window range also includes products which will bring a bit of a wow factor into a home too.

•10•

Enjoy balcony views from your selfbuild with VELUX®

“This could be as simple as making sure roof windows are of a large enough scale to frame a beautiful panorama, as featured with VELUX STUDIO. These roof windows include three slimmer profile sashes in one frame, allowing more daylight to enter a loft while also offering a panoramic view, as the roof window is twice as wide as it is high. Alternatively, it could be about incorporating a stunning outdoor space, indoors.

“The VELUX CABRIO Balcony fits perfectly into roof spaces, and fits flush with roofs when closed. In a matter of seconds, the balcony brings the outside in, letting in more natural daylight and fresh air, creating the perfect spot for a morning coffee break or lunch al fresco. ®

“For uninterrupted, panoramic views and the choice between automatic or manual operation, we recommend VELUX INTEGRA® electric top-hung roof windows. Opening out from the bottom, they create a balcony-like

feeling and fill your space with natural daylight.”

Katherine and Anthony Yiannaki’s home is just one example which highlights how carefully selected roof windows can turn a loft space into the best room in the house. The couple developed their loft and had decided on VELUX CABRIO® even before they had appointed their builders.

Katherine said: “Maximising the amount of daylight we could bring into the space was high on our list of priorities, which is why we wanted to install two VELUX CABRIO® balconies.

Not only have they brought a wow factor, but the amount of natural daylight and fresh air they bring to the space is just unbeatable.”

VELUX’s website has a host of options for those planning a self-build project. For more ideas and project inspiration, visit www.velux.co.uk/selfbuild

•11•

doors & Windows

Architect Embraces the Health Benefits of Titon’s NO2 Filters Two Titon HRV10 Q Plus units with Trimbox NO2 Filters® have been installed as part of unique self-build project in East Dulwich, London.

When architect Jake Edgley began building his own six-bedroom house, he included a mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) system as part of the design, alongside other ‘green’, environmentallyfriendly measures, including non-toxic paint and flooring.

The 400m2 house was constructed in two halves, each built around a tree, with one MVHR system covering each half of the property. As Jake designs and specifies homes as part of his job, he often experiments with different products on his own property. Having included Titon’s ventilation systems on a number of projects during the last ten years, he was already fully aware of the company’s product offering.

Commenting on the decision to have nitrogen dioxide filters added, Jake said: “We noticed if a neighbour lit a bonfire or a barbecue, the smell would still enter the house.

Fortunately, I had seen the Trimbox NO2 Filter® on the Titon website, so I made enquiries into the possibility of adding one to the ventilation system.”

The bedroom area had the Trimbox NO2 Filter® added first, and the Edgley family were so impressed with the results, a second unit was installed to the other half of the house six months later.

Jake explained: “The Trimbox filters work amazingly well, they have completely eradicated any smells coming in from outside.

In fact, if we smell smoke outside, we just close all the doors and

windows, and there is no trace of any odour indoors. The MVHR unit is already a good dust filter and this is improved by the Trimbox, and we’ve also noticed the Trimbox acts as an excellent attenuator to any noise from the MVHR unit. Then there’s the added benefit of knowing the units are filtering out any pollutants so, despite being located about 60 metres from a road, the air inside the house remains clean and healthy.”

Jake now certainly practices what he preaches, as his positive first-hand experience has led him to include the Trimbox NO2 Filter® as part of every new build domestic ventilation system specified by his company, Edgley Design.

“The Trimbox is a great product, particularly in London areas,” he concluded. “Given the rise of environmental toxicity over recent years, we always encourage domestic clients to put MVHR systems into new build homes. Including the Trimbox as part of the system should make perfect sense to homeowners, especially given its capacity to remove diesel particulates and filter toxins from indoor air.”

Titon developed the Trimbox NO2 Filter® to complement its extensive range of HRV Q Plus Eco MVHR units and combat the high levels of nitrogen dioxide found in exhaust gases from diesel engines. The filter incorporates balanced flow technology to provide class leading absorption of NO2 and is available in two duty sizes (depending on the duty required). The product is effective in reducing NO2 to an acceptable mean annual concentration level of 40µQ /m3, while vastly improving indoor air quality (IAQ). Independent tests have demonstrated the Trimbox to absorb 98% of NO2, not only in normal, continuous ventilation mode but also at ‘boost’ or higher ventilation rates.* For more information about Titon and its range ventilation systems, visit: www.titon.com For further details about Edgley Design, visit: www.edgleydesign.co.uk

•12•

Whether your project is big or small, we can help you achieve your glazing vision; you dream it, we’ll deliver it! Call us on 0208 997 2448, or email marcus@1stfoldinslidingdoors.co.uk

1ST FOLDING SLIDING DOORS • 26 Wadsworth Road, Perivale, UB6 7JZ | 141 Hook Road, KT6 5AR • marcus@1stfoldingslidingdoors.co.uk • T: 0208 997 2448 | F: 0208 997 0611

Fresh ideas for Interior Doors in 2020 www.vicaima.com

NEW ‘POCKET DOOR’ ADDED TO BRIO RANGE OF SLIDING DOOR HARDWARE briouk.com

Brio has extended its established range of sliding door hardware with the new Brio Pocket Slide 80. Hidden from view once installed, the universally sized pocket door kit offers a flexible, simple-to-install solution for installers and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), while reducing cost and valuable inventory space for architectural ironmongers (AIs) and builders merchants.

As the only universal fitting kit, the Brio Pocket Slide 80 can cover installation widths ranging from 600 to 1000mm. Simple, efficient and customisable, the kit is easy to assemble and can be fit by a single installer – reducing time, inventory and labour costs for those working on new build projects and extensions.

Included in the pack is an adjustable stopper, forward and back spacer, a stylish black anodised track and wheels with narrow channels for a stable slide of the door. With a quality multilayer wooden beam, the Brio Pocket Slide 80 also absorbs vibrations and noise, making it the perfect fit for en-suite bathrooms.

David Newton, general manager at Brio UK comments: “The pocket door market is one of the largest door hardware markets in the UK, so it’s only logical for us to add this timeless and sleek product to our growing product portfolio.

“Designed with ease of use and practicality in mind, the biggest advantage of the Brio pocket door kit is its universal size. As a ‘one-size-fitsall’ product, it removes the headache of choosing the right-sized solution for a project – making the installation process even easier for installers, building contractors and OEMs. The customisable size also reduces the need for AIs and builders merchants to stock various sizes, helping decrease cost and extend inventory space.”

video has been produced to assist with the installation of the product, which users can view online.

Brio, part of the Allegion family of brands, is an acknowledged global leader in the sliding and folding door industry. For more details on Brio sliding and folding door hardware, visit the website: briouk.com

The Brio Pocket Slide 80 is a certified product and has been put through 100,000 slide cycles as per EN 1527, giving users the peace of mind that this is a sliding door made to last.

In line with the launch, a step-by-step

•15•

Doors & Windows

New Specification Guide

- VEKA UK is on same page as installers, fabricators and specifiers Industry-leading PVCu systems supplier VEKA UK has launched a brand new specification guide providing manufacturers, installers and specifiers with comprehensive information on all the products within the VEKA UK portfolio. or a brand that is world renowned for both its heritage and its commitment to innovation, the timing of the launch is particularly apt; it coincides with the global VEKA Group’s 50th anniversary, and a cutting edge new www.veka.co.uk website.

F

System 10 FlushSash Casement Window

System 10 | FlushSash Casement Window

Features

Technical Drawing

Maximum sash size Side hung: 620mm (w) x 1270mm (h) Outer frames 56mm, 72mm and 84mm outer frames Mullions 70mm or 95mm mullions Sash

Marketing Director Dawn Stockell explains: “Here at VEKA UK, we know our products are perfect for every project, because they are tested to all expected quality and safety accreditations - but more importantly - they must meet our own exceptionally high standards.

“Furthermore, as a customer-centric company, having the ‘perfect product’ is just one part of the service; the second part is presenting all that product information within the ideal package, and that’s exactly what we’ve done with both our new specification guide and the new VEKA website. These resources have made it even easier to specify our industry-leading PVCu systems.

“The guide is over 100 pages and contains everything you need to know about all systems and products within the VEKA, Halo and Imagine brand ranges. From in-depth technical data, technical drawings, and performance results, to information about our technical support services.

“And, for those that prefer a ‘pick and mix’ approach, individual pages can be downloaded by product through the new veka.co.uk site, so customers can effectively put together a bespoke reference guide for their most-used systems.

“The specification guide itself is a joy to read. I’m really proud of how we’ve managed to fit so much valuable content into such a clear and straightforward

•16•

61mm flush sash Finishes Available in a large assortment of colours and woodgrain options from the Variations range and SPECTRAL* Glazing beads 28mm bevelled 28mm sculptured 32mm bevelled 36mm bevelled Ancillaries Frame extensions, cills and weathering trims Range of coupling options Range of bay pole options Thermal performance** Achieves U-values as low as 1.3 W/m2K using double glazing Achieves U-values as low as 1.1 W/m2K using triple glazing

Test Results * SPECTRAL is only available on bevelled or flat surfaces. ** Figures can vary dependent on specification.

54

document. And, I believe the support that complements the spec guide is second to none. Our technical team are only a phone call or an email away and can assist with CAD design, as well as BIM, and wind load or energy calculations (to name just a few of our services), in order to help you specify the perfect system for your project.

“The new specification guide comes following the launch of SPECTRAL; the innovative ultramatt finish, unveiled at this year’s FIT Show and shortlisted for ‘Product of the Year’ at the G19 Awards. This means details can be found throughout the guide of all systems that can be specified with the new finish, as well as full details of SPECTRAL on page 14-15. This extraordinary product can be used to elevate the look and even feel of a window or door frame.

“VEKA UK systems offer immense yet intelligent choice. In developing the Variations colour range, we not only focused on getting the colour and texture

Window type

Max sash sizes (wxh)

Air permeability

Water tightness

Side hung reinforced

620mm x 1270mm

Class 4

Class 9A

Resistance to wind Exposure category

A4

1600

55

of every foil just right, we also looked at how we could deliver these choices with swift lead times that work for your project. It may be a small detail - but one that means we carry the largest UK stock holding covering 4000 SKUs. “The guide’s combination of line drawings, photographs of products in situ, test reports and results, alongside foil options, specification and sizing - with real life case studies - mean the reader has the information and the inspiration needed to perfect every project.

“Putting together such a comprehensive guide was a challenge to say the least, but one that was well worth it; this ‘specification Bible’ is the ultimate reference guide to everything VEKA. It is both exhaustive and easy to use, and I’m looking forward to hearing what customers have to say about it.”

Sign up or log in to download your copy at veka.co.uk

NEW

INTRODUCING THE ROYAL FLUSH

logik

S

™

Flush Sash Windows

Contemporary style now available in the UK’s favourite PVC-U window system.

Made & recycled in the UK

A WINNING HAND FROM EUROCELL. Call 0333 003 0736 for more information or visit www.eurocell.co.uk/logikS

Covid-19 has impacted some plumbers and installers businesses more than others…

The current UK government advice is for everyone in the UK to practice social distancing - limiting face-toface contact with people who are not in your household and maintaining a two-metre distance between one another.

Where this is not possible - such as on public transport etc. you need to wear a face mask. The governments of Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland have issued their own guidance.

Plumbers and installers will, of course, be concerned about the impact that lockdown has had on their businesses.

The government has outlined several ways of supporting businesses during this challenging time including but not limited to business interruption loans, the job retention scheme and income support for the self-employed.

As the easing of lock down continues and we make tentative steps to determine our way forward, where does this leave plumbers and installers re their prospect of working? Given the present climate, many homeowners may be confused and anxious about what work can be done and how they can keep safe with tradespeople coming into or even outside of their homes.

For tradespeople who are working, there are ways to reassure and protect customers (and themselves) such as limiting their time in a house, disinfecting door handles they’ve

•18•

touched, taking drinks so as not to use the homeowners mugs and of course wearing a mask and washing their hands regularly with soap and water/hand sanitiser – or wear gloves.

Recently, The IPG ran a Facebook competition, asking plumbers and installers to answer three simple questions, with the aim of understanding; what they thought of the Government schemes to help self-employed workers, if they were still working and how Covid-19 has impacted their business.

The findings are telling (results compiled June 1, 2020), the Government support packages are

working for some plumbers and installers but not for others. 56% felt that the schemes were positive and very helpful during these difficult times, one installer said that “they were a good solution to an impossible situation”. 38% felt that they were not much help, it took too long to get any payment and they needed to be better.

3% had no opinion.

We also shed some light on the percentage of plumbers and installers who were still working and those who were not. 58% had stopped working, with one participant stating, “It has completely shut down my business, as a domestic plumber/bathroom fitter I had to completely stop working for

Industry News 05

the safety of myself and customers”.

Another said: “We have closed down as we are domestic, no one wanted us to do house calls, jobs haven’t really been coming in, I’ve only had 2 emergencies to go to in this time”.

In contrast, 42% revealed that they were still working, stating various reasons for this, one plumber commented: “As a self-employed contractor, the initial lockdown resulted in me being out of work for a while - until the building site I was on implemented Covid safety measures”.

Another remarked: “We are working but more aware of sanitising and customer interaction, we just have to adjust to suit the current situation keep 2 meters apart, wear masks and

gloves and wash regularly, making customers aware of procedures.”

David Cairns, Head of Supplier and Commercial Strategy at The IPG supports the safe working code stating: “In the UK, heating installers and plumbers primarily work alone or in small teams in private properties, changing location on a regular basis.

Now, more than ever, safe working arrangements and practices are an important area to focus on.

“The public will become increasingly aware of the importance of not only using a tradesperson who is qualified, but one who is also fully aware of Covid-19 health and safety measures.”

He went on to say: “IPG members are all implementing Covid-19 health and safety measures in the workplace, making their stores a safe environment to shop in or click and collect. Never has buying from an independent business been more relevant. It is a significant contributing factor in supporting local employment, boosting UK innovation, as well as increasing environmental benefits.

Support your local independent!”

For more information please visit: www.the-ipg.co.uk

•19•

heating

Radiator trade body launch consumer campaign to stamp out poor quality The Manufacturers Association of Radiators and Convectors (MARC), is committed to product satisfaction and consumer assurance. Members pledge to raise standards and compliance, through a series of initiatives the first one being a targeted consumer campaign.

Launching today, 2nd July 2020, the ‘You are what you Heat’ campaign represents that it is important to have quality, *CE marked radiators, in order for heating systems and homes to be fit and healthy, which applies to all products sold into the construction industry, including those purchased online.

Isaac Occhipinti, Head of external affairs, MARC said; “MARC members are committed to driving change.

Members are proud of their brand and what it stands for.

The ‘You are what you Heat’ campaign has been created to ensure that consumers are aware of the importance of having quality, radiators that conform to current standards, installed in their home. Installing radiators that do not conform could result in cold, expensive and inefficient homes.”

“MARC wants to protect consumers and ensure industry wide compliance with the Construction Products Regulations, which applies to all products sold into the industry, including those purchased online.”

“For us, that means working across the whole industry to ensure that all companies comply with the regulations, and that their marketing materials and product performance data are correct. Inflated heat outputs

•20•

on product packaging defraud consumers. False claims leave consumers cold, out of pocket, and with a bitter taste which reflects badly throughout the industry.”

“It’s not just the consumer who is affected. The environmental effects are considerable.

“Poor quality radiators simply don’t last long, and lead to bigger carbon costs as they need replacing more often.

In addition, a radiator that has overstated its heat output will lead to a boiler that can’t condense properly.”

“It will, therefore, burn more fossil fuels and cause higher amounts of carbon to be released into the atmosphere.”

“Unfortunately, many consumers are not aware of what they need to be looking for when purchasing a radiator. Which is why we have produced a ‘Consumer guide

to Buying the right Radiator’. One guaranteed way that consumers can have product assurance is to look out for MARC membership!”

“All members of MARC must provide proof of product performance (CE marking), together with test certificates.”

For more information about MARC please visit www.marcuk.com

Members of MARC are; • Castrads • DQ Heating • Irsap • Kudox • Purmo • SBH Radiators • Stelrad Radiator Group • Terma • Towelrads • Zehnder Group You can download the consumer guide to buying the right radiators for your home here.

*CE marking is a certification mark that indicates conformity with health, safety, and environmental protection standards for products sold within the European Economic Area. The CE marking is also found on products sold outside the EEA that have been manufactured to EEA standards.

autosizing feature name

No.1 Choice Electric Radiator Collection EHC offer a comprehensive Range of Electric Products that are all controlled by our DSR Smart Technology which enables you to select different Heaters and mix and match them as a Hybrid Heating System for the various rooms within your property to suit your design style and budget – the choice is yours.

Hybrid Heating for the modern home Available for Android & Apple devices

•

Free APP

•

Control your heating anywhere and anytime

•

Adjust each room temperature separately

•

Geolocation Feature

•

Monitor electricity consumption.

Call us on

01698 820533

www.electric-heatingcompany.co.uk

•5•

Heating

WET UNDERFLOOR HEATING BLOWS ELECTRIC OUT OF THE WATER When it comes to underfloor heating systems, there are two types, water and electric.

•22•

Heating Water UFH In contrast, hydronic heating systems deliver reduced long term running costs when compared with electric systems and homeowners can benefit from even greater savings by using more efficient heating sources and controlling it via a thermostat.

How long does it take to install?

Installing underfloor heating is often simpler than you may think, but it is recommended that systems are installed by a qualified installer who has worked with UFH before.

Electric system installations Electric systems are often very quick to fit with some products claiming they can be installed in under 30 minutes.

Water system installations Water systems do often take longer to install as time is needed to test the flow and pressure of the water.

What are the costs of installation? oth warm an area from the floor up and unlike central heating warm the people and objects in a room rather than just heating the air. Central heating is still used in millions of UK homes and causes a massive amount of energy wastage.

converts electric energy into radiant heat.

The mats use thin pre-attached electric heating wires that are rolled out under the floor finish and the heating cables can be installed directly on or within the subfloor.

Underfloor heating offers much greater freedom from a design perspective as it saves around 15% more space and eliminates the problem of visible pipes and radiators. But which one wins the race, water or electric?

Wet systems, which are also known as hydronic, involve pumping the heated water through the underfloor heating pipes/ circuits which have been laid on top of or in the subfloor, underneath the floor finish.

B

Electric underfloor heating costs far more to run than warm water UFH, in fact a system like Wunda Group plc’s over floor heating system Wundatherm could save you 65% when compared. Wundatherm is a rapid response wet system that doesn’t require digging up floors and is perfect for both new and existing properties without the need for screed.

A water system

What are the financial savings?

Wet UFH uses much less energy than central heating as it is designed to run at a lower temperature whilst still providing the same level of heat. However, costs and efficiency will differ depending on construction, insulation, energy tariffs and how the heating is being controlled.

So what do homeowners need to know about electric and water UFH?

For example, a room size of 40m² would cost around £900 per annum to heat using electric UFH, whereas a wet UFH system would only cost about £180 per year.

An electric system

Electric UFH

Electric UFH is readily available as either a heated mat or as a cable system that

Running an electric underfloor heating system will cost more than a water system due to current energy tariffs.

When choosing whether a water or electric system is most beneficial, it’s worth doing some research first. Like what is the price difference between a plumber installing a wet system and an electrician wiring the electrical system to the mains?

Homeowners can expect to pay around £200 plus per day for a competent tradesperson to install a heating system, but in the case of Wundatherm, up to 150 sq. metres takes two people just two days to install and only requires a plumber when it comes to commissioning the system on completion.

Wunda prides itself on first class quality and customer service, providing free technical support six days a week, and provides the specialist service of detailed layout plans for all bespoke systems free of charge to trade customers. With these layout plans to hand, tradesmen can have complete confidence in laying the boards and installing the Wundatherm system.

For further information on the Wundatherm underfloor heating system or a free estimate, call 0800 083 2677, email plans@wundagroup.com or visit the website www.wundagroup.com Wunda Group is supported by Vantage PR

•23•

01 Section Name

get your idea manufactured and receive a percentage of all sale royalties!

There are also two runner up prizes of £500 up for grabs * developer-update.co.uk

Section Name 01

The IPG, the largest and fastest -growing membership group for plumbing, heating and bathroom specialists, has launched an exciting innovation competition via On The Tools Facebook page.

We are searching for the most innovative and exciting ideas from trades across the UK. The competition is also open to students studying a trade and enthusiastic DIY’ers.

Have you got: • • • •

an idea for something that improves on site work life? a neat trick that makes a plumbing job easier? a good bathroom hack? a nifty tool for the van?

Whatever it is, if you have a new and exciting idea - we want to hear it!

It starts with an idea and it ends with your own product manufactured, sold and marketed by The IPG. So, what are you waiting for?

www.the-ipg.co.uk/innovation

Visit for the full details and to download an entry pack

The competition closes on Monday 17 August 2020 *subject to competition t/c’s developer-update.co.uk

Heating To alleviate the very real problems of noise, keeping sound and air pollution outside, Vectaire has three new models in its vertical whole house heat recovery range. The Midi, Maxi and Maxi Plus are now available with integral acoustic attenuation lined with superior sound deadening materials for really low sound levels and tested by BRE. Sound pressure levels are down to <5.0, <5.0 and 6.9 dBA respectively. They are easy to install – nothing extra is required other than the unit itself – they are the quietest, lightest and smallest on the market. Efficiency, performance and economy remain the same as the standard models. “BY-AT” models incorporate summer bypass and frost protection, and commissioning is via an integral LCD. Windows can be kept firmly closed while these MVHRs provide energy efficient ventilation and a comfortable environment. Products are SAP PCDB Listed and manufactured in our own factory in the UK to ISO 9001.

Vectaire offers a design service ensuring units are installed in the best possible way to provide efficient, effective, low energy and very economic ventilation. Vectaire can also organise installation, commissioning and maintenance of these products and can supply all necessary accessories.

All Vectaire’s residential ventilation is detailed in the latest Low Energy Catalogue.

•26•

You can have it all with Speedheat Creating an airy, open space for living calls for clean lines and minimum fuss – but you also need to keep cosy.

Speedheat electric underfloor heating can help to achieve it all. Installed with minimum disruption and no noticeable build up in floor height, Speedheat’s system is invisible under your choice of final floor finish. It is ideal for new build, renovation and redesign projects and comes complete with state of the art, unobtrusive controls. Speedheat spells the end to ugly radiators or trailing cables, with nothing to spoil the view. info@speedheat.co.uk

The renewable heating alternative

Serious about sustainability The Ultra Quiet Ecodan range of air source heat pumps from Mitsubishi Electric are some of the most advanced heating systems available. Designed specifically for UK conditions, Ecodan provides renewable, low carbon alternatives to traditional fossil fuel-burning heating systems.

With an A++ ErP Rating label across the range, homes can be heated for less while cutting CO2 emissions.

ecodan.me.uk/hda

Heating

THE IS NO

Chris Goggin o UK with some the inevitabilit the urgent ne

•28•

Heating

ENERGY QUESTION OW A ’TRILEMMA’

of Rinnai looks, in detail, at the future of energy supply in the e of the likely outcomes and possible scenarios in response to ity of changing consumer habits and behaviour in the face of eeds to conquer climate change.

•29•

Heating heating industry and the UK government have a vested interest in preventing the potential impact of this macroenvironmental theme.

There appears to be an urgent need for awareness campaigns that aim to change our perception and habits of using energy in the home environment. These campaigns should be driven by the UK heating industry whilst calling for support from the UK government to assist in changing the energy consumption behaviors of consumers nationwide. There is substantiated evidence from other areas of the globe that change can happen and take effect with the strategic response of social marketing in the form of “nudge” based campaigns.

here is now a consensus that climate change must be halted now by a whole raft of changes to our behaviour and habits unless we wish to play chicken with irreversible global consequences.

T

Climate change affects all of us, unless, of course, you happen to be the 45th President of the USA, in which case you can carry on Twittering.

Or maybe he has a point? Are the claimed dire consequences overplayed and overstated for wider political purposes? Well, if you accept the logic that even fake news can be genuine sometimes then we need to look at the facts. The simple, accepted facts.

This article identifies the emerging theme of the “energy trilemma within the UK” and critically discusses the three main tenets of the energy trilemma: • energy security • sustainability • affordability.

66% of energy used (officially verified figures) domestically in the UK is for heating, so both the UK

•30•

A key element of the energy trilemma is related to the security of energy supplies which is crucially important if the UK are to produce a substantial reduction in greenhouse gas emissions (Spataru et al, 2015). It is noted by many sources that North Sea oil and gas reserves are in decline, a point highlighted by Lovell et al (2009, pg.12) who states that “the UK’s North Sea oil and gas reserves appeared to have peaked”. This statement is supported by Macalister (2010) who states that “the UK will find itself on the brink of losing its energy self-sufficiency” The UK had previously been a major exporter of energy however, it is again a major importer of fossil fuels (Pollitt, 2017). This reduction in fossil fuels is coupled with several of the existing coal and nuclear sites coming ‘off system’ in the coming decade (DECC, 2012). This is leading to significant fears over the threat of the lights going off (Abdo & Kouhy, 2016, pp 20). This point is supported by (Spataru, et al 2015, pp 95) and the UK energy regulator has stated that the statistical probability of severe power black outs would increase.

The lack of energy sustainability coupled with a loss of energy security leads to the final element of the energy trilemma - affordability. The UK energy agenda is dominated by concerns regarding affordability of energy supplies, unambiguously related to domestic heating needs as noted by (Day, Walker and Simcock, 2016, pp, 256) UK agenda has always been dominated by concerns about the affordability of heating specifically, linked with anxieties about public health. These anxieties stem from an increase in deaths during cold weather mainly due to poor insulation of UK housing stock, official statistics for the UK show every year a peak in the number of deaths during winter months that run to the tens of thousands (Office for National Statistics, 2014).

Heating This presents the government with the issue noted by (Bolton & Foxon, 2015, pp 169) UK government is reluctant to let prices rise to a level required for new low carbon investment because of concerns over the impact on the affordability. This policy hiatus is further enhancing the potential impact of the energy trilemma and presents significant potential to impact the UK heating industry as 66% of energy used domestically is used for heating and hot water (appendix.1.).

In the works of (Hamilton, 2005) on the impact of oil prices on the macro economy, he notes that a key mechanism whereby energy price shocks affect the economy is through disruption in consumer spending on goods and services other than energy (Hamilton, 2005, pp. 10). This point is further supported by (Beranke et al, 1997) who discovers that an increase in energy prices slows economic growth through its effect on consumer spending.

Industry and government action will need to focus on changing normative and social actions, a point supported by (Chan, 1999) who found that green consumption behavior is significantly related to concern for the environment and behavioral intentions, and that green consciousness and the promotion of environmental protection and green consumption by the government are both effective predictors of green consumption behavior. This points to the need for educating the consumer base to change the normative behaviors as noted by (Wu & Chen, 2014, pp. 119) education of the consumer can lead to changes in consumption behavior and the incorporation of green choices into his/her daily life.

To avoid the outcomes of the energy trilemma, the UK must transform its energy sector, this transformation is hindered by great uncertainty as to the central policy objectives and agendas which are driving UK governance (Bolton & Foxon, 2013). Therefore, it appears that one of the most rational avenues of action be that the heating industry, supported by national government, undertake a program of social based “nudge” campaigns to allay and reduce the impact of the energy trilemma by reducing long-term consumption. It is pleasing to see such “nudge” techniques happened with smart meters but more can be done.

The UK government has failed with policy approaches that have sought to incentivize energy reductions in light of the issues stemming from the energy trilemma. For example, the green deal aimed at incentivizing more energy efficient behavior. The failings of the green deal are described by (Rosenow & Eyre, 2016. Pp. 141) “poor policy design, limited financial appeal and narrow engagement with consumers.”

The heating industry, supported by national government, can utilize a social marketing agenda to reduce energy consumption and subsequent costs, through education and “nudging”. The expertise of the industry and its knowledge of the consumer supported by government regulation and incentives could create the winning formula.

The key failings of the ‘green deal’ and other government approaches was its inability to truly understand the audience benefit. These benefits need to be elicited to tap into and satisfy the underlying motivation of groups as discussed by (Lefebrve, 2011, pp.58) and these benefits may not be health, a cleaner environment, access to services or even money.

This step change away from monetary incentives towards energy reduction programs could focus on audience benefit, with an educational approach to changing and evoking social norms related to energy consumption.

Sounds drastic? Many would argue that we are in drastic times requiring drastic measures. Or we just go on Twitttering….

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT WWW.RINNAIUK.COM

‘Nudge’ techniques are described by (Thaler and Sunstein, 2008, pp.6) as actions that alter people’s behavior in a predictable way without forbidding any options or significantly changing their economic incentives.

•31•

Heating

Clean heat to spur low carbon jobs growth by 2030 A large percentage of lower carbon employment opportunities expected to emerge by the end of the decade will require individuals skilled in supporting green heat and power, says new research A majority of the low-carbon jobs available in the UK by 2030 are expected to involve providing cleaner electricity and heat, a new report has found.

Research compiled by Ecuity Consulting for the Local Government Association (LGA) has considered the likely employments impacts of the emergence of a number of low carbon industries. These professions are seen as being central to support the government’s ambition to have fully eliminated or offset national carbon emissions by 2050.

The research considered the jobs likely to be created in the fields of low carbon heating, which will focus on areas such heat networks, Combined Heat and Power (CHP) systems as well as installing technologies able to run on renewable energy. It has also factored in the likely skill requirements needed to sufficiently address demand for these systems and services.

An anticipated reliance on alternative fuels such as bioenergy and hydrogen, and increased development of energy efficient products that includes insulation and monitoring and control solutions are also covered in the report.

In England alone, efforts to move towards the government’s 2050 net-zero target are anticipated to see 690,000 low-carbon economy jobs exist by 2030. The figure is expected to rise to 1.18 million by 2050.

Ecuity estimates that 46 per cent of these low carbon jobs by 2030 will be based around the supply of clean electricity and low-carbon heat technologies, such as providing heat pumps to homes and businesses.

21 per cent of the low-carbon employment opportunities will meanwhile be represented by work to introduce energy efficiency solutions

•32•

such as insulation and controls, the report added.

A “diverse” range of skills will be required to fill these potential employment opportunities, according to the research. Feedback from experts in the report identified immediate skills gaps in low carbon heat and power sectors.

Another key finding of the research was the leading role local councils were looking to play to support net-zero transformation, particularly around funding for skills projects that can address local needs for new jobs. One such solution cited in the report would be the development of a pipeline of skilled individuals on a local level to fulfil lower carbon employment.

Ecuity consulting added, “Councils and combined authorities could be supported to coordinate local education providers and businesses to bridge gaps in NVQrelated skills so that the workforce is equipped to meet emerging demand.”

Robert Honeyman, economic analysis head with the consultancy group, said that a wide array of new technologies and workers would be needed for any viable national net-zero strategy. Mr Honeyman said that the shift to a lowcarbon economy has been identified by researchers and economists as providing a clear route for economic recovery from Covid-19.

He said, “Local authorities can play an

important role in identifying, allocating funding and supporting collaboration between local low carbon employers, education providers and the labour force.”

“Through the implementation of ambitious reskilling schemes and emission reductions targets, local governments stand to gain not only by reducing their own carbon emissions, but also as promoters of strategic industries within their region and leaders within the net zero transition.”

Cllr Sir Richard Leese, Chair of the LGA’s City Regions Board, said that a demand for ‘green jobs’ would “sky-rocket” in number towards 2050.

He said that such a shift in the labour market would see local government having to play a vital role - based on each authority’s local knowledge and expertise - to fill these positions.

He said “Localising and devolving skills investment, back to work support and any job guarantee will be critical to ensuring everyone benefits from new local jobs, including these one million new low carbon jobs.”

“To help meet national climate change targets and capitalise on the green jobs revolution, councils need to be given long-term funding, devolved powers and easier access to complex government funding pots to help realise the government’s target of being carbon neutral by 2050.”

ITALIAN MADE DESIGNER COLUMN RADIATORS Apollo Radiators is a Gloucester based independent distributor of European designer radiators and towel rails. The Apollo Roma Steel Column radiator is stocked in three colours, White, Anthracite and Silver Grey.

Available for delivery throughout the UK within 2 days at no extra cost. All colours are available in vertical, horizontal and low level; and can be floor mounted. 49 bespoke colours are available within 10 working days.

Visit www.apolloradiators.co.uk for more info or email info@apolloradiators.co.uk

heating

RINNAI HOT WATER – RELIABLY INSTANT, energy EFFICIENT and lower fuel costs FOR UK HOMEOWNERS Rinnai’s range of ErP A-rated continuous flow gas-fired hot water heaters now includes models specifically aimed and designed for the UK domestic market. he units guarantee high efficiencies and low running costs combined with consistent water temperatures seven days a week.

T

Rinnai’s range of continuous flow water heating units are being specified and installed in the whole range of domestic properties – studios, flats, houses, high-end residential houses - as installers and end users become aware of the ease of installation, and the energy & cost saving benefits.

Rinnai manufactures over 2million water heaters every year and as such is at the forefront of creating unit cost advantages for installers.

Competitively priced, the units offer all technological advances and innovations, all at a similar cost to lower specification competitor models.

The reason for the increase in popularity is that continuous flow heating systems are proven to

be more energy efficient than conventional ones and are now the preferred method of hot water provision. Rinnai units meet the demands of any size of home and are ideal where high volumes are demanded at intermittent times of the day, delivering safe temperature useable hot water.

Rinnai’s multipoint 17i water heater, for example, eliminates the problem of sudden changes in water temperature, resulting in cold showers or scalding hot baths – the water temperature you set is the water temperature you get.

So, if somebody is happily showering at 42°C and a tap is turned on to draw a bath elsewhere in the property, the temperature does not vary, and there is no chance of either user running out of hot water.

The Rinnai 16i interior model measures just 675 x 370 x 139mm and weighs in at 18kg - a one-man lift. The room-sealed unit has a temperature range of 35°C to 60°C

with direct electronic ignition. Gas consumption ranges between 4.7kW6.5kW for Natural Gas and 4.9kW36.8kW when using propane. Hot water delivery flow is an impressive 16ltr max flow.

Nominal operation pressure is 1-7 bar and it uses a 230V AC 50Hz 1ph power supply with an electrical consumption of 68W. Meanwhile, where an external installation is required, the Rinnai 17e external multipoint water heater offers greater flexibility at the design stage and offers a viable solution where flue runs are problematic or internal space is not available.

Capable of flow rates of up to 510 litres per hour at a 50°C rise, the 17e is suitable for multiple applications and can be specified for use with Natural Gas or propane.

The 17e has full frost protection and is available with a range of external ancillary items, including pipe cover box – and security cage where necessary.

For smaller properties, the Infinity 11i interior unit differs from the 17i as it weighs 2kg less at 16kg and consumes 6.10kW-21.60kW of Natural Gas and has an 11-litre maximum flow.

Key features of the 24kW Rinnai 11i are: Compact & lightweight unit for easy installation; Robust, durable heat exchanger; User friendly digital controls; In-built frost protection; Ideal replacement for large obtrusive and bulky cylinder; Compact design to fit a limited space.

For more information on the RINNAI product range visit www.rinnaiuk.com

•34•

heating

•35•

NHBC reveals the UK’s best housebuilders as Pride in the Job celebrates its 40th anniversary NHBC, the UK’s leading new home warranty and insurance provider, is delighted to announce this year’s winners of its flagship Pride in the Job Awards which is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. The competition is dedicated to recognising site managers who achieve the very highest standards in house building.

From a field of more than 11,000, 450 UK site managers have won a Quality Award in the first round of NHBC’s Pride in the Job Awards 2020, representing the top 4% of those who entered. Being selected as one of the UK’s top site managers is a testament to their commitment to delivering quality homes for their customers.

Pride in the Job is the most highly regarded competition in the house-building industry. Judging for the Awards is rigorous, the current competition began in July 2019, with each site manager assessed across six key areas: consistency, attention to detail, leadership, interpretation of drawings and specifications, technical expertise, and health and safety.

Over four decades, Pride in the Job has been at the heart of NHBC’s core purpose to support the delivery of high-quality homes. By recognising the very best site managers across the UK, showcasing best practice and rewarding excellence, the competition celebrates

the vital role that site managers play in ensuring new homes are delivered on time, on safe sites and to exacting construction quality standards.

Recent NHBC research has revealed a direct link between homeowner satisfaction on Pride in the Job award-winning sites compared to non award-winning sites. The Home Builders Federation Customer Satisfaction Survey results from 2015 to 2019 show that over 92% of homeowners on winning sites would recommend their builder, compared with 85% on non award-winning sites. This increases to 95% on regional award-winning sites.

Subject to our team of judges being able to visit sites over the next two months, the Quality Award winners will now go on to compete for Seal of Excellence and Regional Awards that are planned to be announced at a series of virtual events in the autumn, with the Supreme Award winners unveiled in January 2021.

Commenting on the Awards, NHBC Chief Executive Steve Wood said: “Pride in the Job has been pivotal in improving the quality of new homes so it’s fantastic to be able to celebrate its 40th anniversary. Despite the numerous challenges the industry has faced in recent times, the very best site managers of 2020 have kept their focus on delivering high quality new homes for their customers.

“At NHBC we are very proud of Pride in the Job, what it stands for and the impact it has had and continues to have across the sector.

“As our new research shows, it’s no surprise that Pride in the Job winning sites have higher levels of homeowner satisfaction as these homes are without doubt among the best the country has to offer.

“Congratulations to all the 2020 Quality Award winners – be proud of your incredible achievements!”

For the full list of winners please visit click here

•36•

31

developer-update.co.uk

100% Stainless Steel Towel Rails 25 Year Guarantee 01825 722988 www.sussexrange.co.uk info@jiseurope.co.uk

n response to the recent Covid 19 outbreak Managing Director at JIS Europe, Richard Thelwell, discusses their policy of stockholding and how it is even more relevant today.

“We have recently seen an increase in demand for our powder coated black rails, and also our satin finish rails”

“On a daily basis we are answering calls from customers asking if we have stock to fulfill their orders, the simple answer is ‘yes, we do’ ”

“My customers don’t want to go to the expense and disruption of fitting out their bathroom to then 2 years down the line find an inferior mild steel rail rusts, leaks and they then need a complete re-tile when the replacement isn’t dimensionally identical to the original”

I

‘We are able to maintain the chain of supply quite simply due to our longstanding policy of stockholding providing further financial stability to ourselves but as importantly to our customers whose projects do not need to see any further delays” The Sussex Range is manufactured from 100% stainless steel including our recently introduced Black Edition of powder coated rails

“More and more people are coming round to the durability and sustainability of stainless steel”

our manufacture to our charity initiatives.

We offer 3 formats of rail throughout the range: Electric, dual fuel and central heating only and we offer both a polished and satin finish as well as the Black Edition Range.

“The cornerstones of our business are quite simply quality, stock holding and ultimately customer service. The three work hand in hand”

Stainless steel is 100% recyclable, and manufactured from over 90% recyclable material. It does not rust, flake or corrode. It is the sustainable, durable choice.

We have a large selection of gallery shots, showing the visual diversity of our rails, on our website www. sussexrange.co.uk do have a look and should you wish any further details, please do not hesitate to contact us on 01825 722988 or info@jiseurope.co.uk

We source our rails ethically and take our social responsibility seriously, from our sourcing to

“Thank you and above all else wishing health to all and their families” - Richard

Bathrooms PURESHOWERS.CO.UK LAUNCHES THE WORLD’S FIRST MATTE BLACK HAND-HELD SHOWER FILTER INTO THE UK MARKET

lack is the new black when it comes to tapware, especially in the world of bathroom interior design. Homeowners looking to add the statement shade to their space can now do as PureShowers.co.uk launches the world’s first matte black, hand-held shower filter.

been retailing shower filters for over 10 years and whilst many customers are happy with a chrome shower filter, those with high-end showers and fittings want something more modern and chic. We are the first in the UK to introduce a matt black design. Unique and stylish it gives any bathroom an immediate wow factor.”

The majority of hand-held shower filters on the market are available in either chrome or clear plastic. But a hot new trend in bathroom and kitchen fittings has seen modern houses and contemporary interior designers incorporating black tapware to both bathrooms and kitchens.

Hand-held shower filters are shower heads which are installed on a standard shower hose. But unlike traditional shower heads, they incorporate a water filter cartridge within that filters the water to remove contaminants such as chlorine, bacteria, heavy metals while also making the water feel softer.

The hand-held shower filter itself incorporates three different water filter mediums and comes with two filter cartridges which can last up to 12 months before having to be replaced. It is also available in white or chrome colours to suit more traditional showers and bathrooms and is currently on offer for the special launch price of £35.95 (RRP £45.95).

B

Ty Lee, owner of PureShowers.co.uk said, “We’ve

•40•

It has already won rave reviews from customers with many giving five-star reviews for both the design and functionality. Shirley Chan of London says: “I have been using the shower filter for three weeks now and I have noticed the difference in my skin and

hair. Previously, my skin would feel very dry and itchy and I had to moisturise with an emollient cream, but now my skin feels soft and smooth and I no longer have to use my creams.”

Stephen Boyle of Essex says: “It’s easy to install. Well after two weeks since putting the filter on my shower, it’s great. I never realised how much damage chlorine does to the skin.”

Jacqueline Gallagher of Derry says: “The filter does everything it promised and I couldn’t be happier. I’ve recommended it to all my friends and am telling all my salon clients of the benefits.”

The utterly contemporary matt black hand-held shower filters are available exclusively from the PureShowers.co.uk website.

To find out more, visit: www.pureshowers.co.uk/aquafilter3-stage-hand-held-shower-filter. html

bathrooms

New warehouse sees Harrison Bathrooms on track for £40m revenue

Harrison Bathrooms, one of the UK’s leading suppliers of bathroom products to retailers and distributors, has moved into a new 68,000 sq ft warehouse facility to accommodate its increasing Scudo range.

Following continued growth and demand, the bathroom supplier is on track to meet its £40m turnover target by 2023. In addition to the company’s existing offices and warehouse, the new facility provides an extra 8,500 pallet spaces and will make room for its Scudo range, which has increased its product selection by 40%.

Harrison Bathrooms has become a go-to supplier for retailers, merchants and distributors. Working directly with manufacturers to reduce the supply chain, enables Harrison Bathrooms to offer high-quality products at competitive prices and improved profit margins for retailers.

James Harrison, managing director of Harrison Bathrooms, said: “As a family-run business with roots within the industry for more than 100 years, we have made it our mission to provide high-quality products with

increased margins for our customers.

The current global pandemic is likely to hit our industry, like many others, hard.

So we are encouraging our customers to look at suppliers with a reduced supply chain to help them make better margins.

“The new warehouse facility enables us to increase our stock holding across our Scudo range and the excellent transport links will continue our 24-hour delivery service level across the UK.” The warehouse will house a two-storey showroom, which will showcase Harrison Bathrooms’ Scudo brand. Launching in September, it will enable customers to select the products they would like to display in their showrooms.

For more information on Harrison Bathrooms or to stock the Scudo range, visit: www.harrisonbathrooms.com

•5•

bathrooms

The IPG congratulate Roman for hitting record breaking numbers at KBB 2020 Europe’s leading shower designer and manufacturer, Roman, has revealed its delight at hitting record breaking numbers at the UK’s main bathroom event, KBB, earlier this month. he IPG, the largest and fastest growing membership group for plumbing, heating and bathroom specialists was one of the first to share in their delight. Roman Showers are one of The IPG suppliers who made an impressive impact at KBB with record numbers hitting their stand. Visitors were able to view Roman’s British manufactured

T

products, including new launches and a range of innovative developments, demonstrating the company’s full range of capabilities and vast experience within the UK market.

Roman were also thrilled with the news that their newly launched Liberty Fluted Glass Wetroom Panels had been selected

by Designer Magazine as one of the most innovative products at KBB 2020

and featured in the event’s Design Trail.

Glenn Fisher Managing Director at The IPG said “Roman has been designing and manufacturing showering solutions for over 35 years, and are known in the industry for their quality, precision and craftsmanship. Their stand at KBB demonstrated beautifully their diverse, versatile and innovative products which offer a

range of options for every style of bathroom. Roman’s Liberty Fluted Glass Wetroom Panels clearly deserved one of the ‘most innovative product’ titles at KBB, awarded by Designer Magazine.”

Roman also introduced Innov8 Sliders and Innov8 Curved Quadrants which have extremely clever running systems and fast fix installation design - the obvious visual aspect is their availability in a matt black finish as well as silver chrome, this shows how mainstream matt black is now becoming in the market. The range features 8mm thick glass on the sliding doors and the large one door curved quadrants.

Another featured launch on the Roman stand was their new Liberty Black Grid Hinged Door with an In-Line Panel which slots into the stunning Liberty range and is available in four colours: matt black, silver chrome, brushed nickel and polished nickel.

David Osborne, Managing Director at Roman said: “It was a tiring but very enjoyable 4-day event seeing so many customers; old and new.

We hope the event will be a great kick start for 2020.”

•42•

Discover our 2020 collections

Novellini UK offers a full range of bathroom products; including bespoke shower enclosures, wet-rooms, steam rooms, spa baths, furniture and much more. All our products are designed and manufactured in Italy ensuring quality and availability. We have an extensive showroom facility at our HQ in Italy to support specifications and technical needs., If you are interested in talking to us about future projects or visiting us in Italy, for more details and availability, please contact our contracts manager Steve Shirley: s.shirley@novellini.com.

Products available nationwide via our merchant partners. Why not visit our website or contact us directly for more details on our products and services.

FOLLOW US

Info-uk@novellini.com tel: 01727-229922

ADV Architects Datafile 10-19.indd 1

www.novellini.co.uk www.iotti.com

16/09/19 09:34

VICAIMA LAUNCHES NEW WEBSITE STRENGTHENING THE USER’S EXPERIENCE Always aiming to build the perfect online experience for its customers and partners, Vicaima, one of the largest European players in the production of sophisticated solutions for interior doors, wardrobes and panels, has just launched a new website, which aims to improve the ease of navigation for its users, providing spontaneous and differentiating interaction with all features and tools. et another innovation, from a company which is continuously investing in a close, modern and intuitive digital footprint.

Y

Among the new features, Vicaima highlights the speed of the platform and the contemporary, functional and responsive redesign, strategically created to facilitate the search process for users, in line with their intentions, needs and desires.

Thus, the new website is characterized by dynamism, accompanied by carefully selected content, as well as a wide range of products, performance and solutions, with a view to boosting the digital presence of the brand in the national and international arena.

This redesign includes aesthetic improvements allowing for more

•44•

immersive experimentation and improved navigation, which allows visitors to easily find the information they need.

“After many months of work and dedication by our entire team, we are very pleased with the launch of the new Vicaima website. This latest step reflects the company’s ability to anticipate trends, innovate, propose complete and exciting proposals to the market. With the new website, the user can easily and intuitively access the commercialized products, news,

catalogues, technical information, projects and news, as well as request the download of BIM solutions from Vicaima, quickly and effectively. We believe that we will strengthen our position as one of the dominant players in the market. With the new design, we

expect an increase in the number of visitors and consumption of content on our page. We look forward to feedback and the new and exciting developments to come “, stresses Antonio Moutinho, Director at Vicaima Group.

The new Vicaima page thus highlights the company’s willingness to invest in a digital sphere that provides the best user experience for its customer. The renewal follows, precisely, the thought provoking attitude of the brand towards the different markets in which it operates.

This is also related to an integrated multichannel strategy, which reconciles the company’s multiple

digital tools, placing it, once again, at the forefront of the sector.

Vicaima is currently one of the biggest European players in the design and production of sophisticated solutions for interior doors, technical doors, frames, wardrobes, panels and furniture parts. Its positioning is based on the ability to develop integrated and customized solutions, oriented to different sectors, namely housing, hotel, health, education and commercial. Innovative and trendsetter, Vicaima has a constant concern for sustainability, being the first Portuguese company in the sector to obtain FSC® (Forest Stewardship Council®)

certification. Founded in Portugal, it has a direct presence in countries such as the United Kingdom and Spain and exports 95% of its production to markets ranging from Europe to the African continent, passing through the United Arab Emirates and the American continent.

For further information, visit the Vicaima website www.vicaima.com

•45•

NEOLITH® AND STOSA CUCINE: A NEW PARTNERSHIP LOOKING TO THE FUTURE OF INNOVATION Stosa Cucine, leading company in the Italian furniture industry, and Neolith® the pioneering brand of Sintered Stone surfaces, have signed an exclusive deal, demonstrating a shared drive towards innovation and realisation of excellent products with sustainable design.

C

entral to the partnership will be the launch of a new range of finishes available for counter tops and kitchen doors.

This collaboration will showcase the brands’ mutual passion for expert craftsmanship, material excellence and sustainable design.

A Mutual Approach

foundation, it has looked to partner with like-minded architects, design houses and furniture makers to promote a better understanding of Sintered Stone and its potential. The alignment of Stosa Cucine with these deep-held values represented a natural fit, opening the door to collaborate.

Double Act

Stosa Cucine is a byword for excellence in kitchen design. Founded in 1964, it has established a global reputation for its unique understanding of the ever-evolving aesthetics in the culinary space.

Commenting on the partnership, Neolith CMO Mar Esteve Cortes says: “Stosa Cucine is a household name worldwide, synonymous with excellence. When the opportunity to work with them arose, it was a no brainer as our values align so perfectly.”

This is further complemented by its commitment to ongoing research and development, always innovating to offer clients the very best service, yet always aware of its heritage.

She continues, “We are both passionate about amazing design and equally uncompromising in our devotion to high quality in everything. I know everyone on the Neolith team is excited to see how

Refining its values over half a century, Stosa Cucine’s approach delivers the perfect combination of form and substance. These qualities, and more, dovetailed seamlessly with those of Neolith, forming the essential foundations for a strong, like-minded partnership.

Of One Mind Neolith’s position as a market-leading, carbon neutral surface has been built over a decade of commercial and consumer specification, particularly in professional and residential kitchens. It has become known as one of the safest and most hygienic materials available to specifiers, without compromising on performance and visual appeal.

Although younger than Stosa Cucine, it similarly remains a family-run business, placing great value on accrued experience which yields unrivalled expertise and exquisitely finessed products.

Beauty, sustainability, longevity and safety underpin Neolith’s ethos. Since its

•46•

Stosa Cucine will use our materials, starting with the Aliant collection. Seeing a slab of the material is one thing, but to experience it in application is another. It gives essential context so potential customers can truly envisage how it might look in their own space.”

Claudio Renai, Stosa Cucine’s Purchasing Manager, discusses how the partnership came about, “In my role I’m always on the lookout for new, innovative and sustainable materials to specify in conjunction with our sophisticated designs. Fundamentally what we choose has to reflect our core values.

I recently came across Neolith at a trade event and was immediately drawn to their range of surfaces. Following discussions with their team and a visit to the factory

to see how it’s produced, I felt confident in recommending it to the Stosa team as THE partner of choice. Having seen what we’ve produced together, I’m blown away!”

David Sani, Sales Director for Italy, at Stosa Cucine adds, “Innovation, quality and attention to detail drive our material choices. We are always on the lookout for those rare surfaces which strike that fine balance between form and function. Being flexible to client requirements is also crucial which is why we need to work with brands which can offer a wide range of colours, finishes and formats without compromising on quality. We have found all this and more in Neolith.”

He continues, “Much like their slabs, Neolith’s attitude and values fit seamlessly together with ours, making it the material of choice for our new version of Aliant, combining contemporary cool with timeless elegance. Furthermore it is one of the most hygienic surfacing materials on the market, and essential requirement in the current climate.

“With green design also a growing preference, that the material is eco-

friendly and sustainably produced adds considerable value to both specifier and homeowner. We look forward to a prosperous partnership.”

The partnership with Stosa Cucine will further cement and build on Neolith’s position within Italy, following the foundation of Neolith Italy in spring 2020.

It plays an integral part of a wider strategy to bring the brand closer to the end customer and increase point-of-sale presence in this territory and beyond.

Currently operational, Neolith Italy, alongside the Stosa Cucine partnership and the Neolith Urban Boutique Milan, will strengthen the brand’s supply chain within Italy, ensuring a strong pipeline of material which can be ordered and delivered to site rapidly, whatever the size.

To find out more about Stosa Cucine and Neolith’s Aliant ranges click here.

For more information about Neoliths’ collection of patterns, finishes, formats and thicknesses click here.

•47•

Paints Widely recognised as one of London’s most perfect villages, full of beautiful shops, prime period properties and green open spaces, Wimbledon is an idyllic location for any family. Therefore, it came as no surprise to Up Architects when they were appointed by a young family, who required more space, to deliver the full refurbishment and extension of their existing home. Kebony, a global leader in the production of sustainable modified wood, was carefully selected by the architects for the exterior cladding of the extension to create something truly beautiful without being ostentatious. fter making the decision to stay in their house, rather than moving to a bigger property in the area, or moving away from the children’s school, the family recognised their pressing need for more space. Up Architects wanted to design an extension that stood out from the run-of-the-mill extensions in the area, and started with the idea of a single large space that could be adapted to suit the family’s needs over time, incorporating dining, living, a playroom, study area, TV room and guest room into the brief. Now their hectic family life could take place in a modern, light filled open-plan living space, all with an enhanced connection to the garden.

A

In keeping with the client’s brief, the design is simple, un-assuming and honest with two simple roof forms sitting over the main space, formed from an exposed glulam timber structure with Kebony cladding used for the exterior walls and roof.

The simple geometry of the twinhipped roofs breaks up the bulk seen from outside and defines the different spaces internally without a physical division. The timber Kebony cladding lines up across the walls and roof, with compound mitred joints, making the whole extension appear to be carved from one block of wood, with no visible gutters to compromise the sharp lines.

All the timber used was sustainably sourced and the Kebony cladding is guaranteed for 30 years. Developed in Norway, Kebony’s revolutionary

technology is an environmentally friendly and patented process which modifies sustainably sourced softwoods by heating the wood with furfuryl alcohol - an agricultural by-product.

By polymerising the wood’s cell wall, the softwoods permanently take on the attributes of tropical hardwood including high durability, hardness and dimensional stability. This unique process also provides Kebony with its characteristic appearance, which only grows more beautiful with time.

Marty McColl, Director at Up Architects commented: “Following our appointment for this project, it was essential that the family felt they had made the right decision in opting for an extension rather than moving house.

We were able to create substantially more space, whilst ensuring the extension reflected the brief to build something that was beautiful in design without being ostentatious; we are thrilled with the final product and loved working with Kebony to transform this traditional suburban semi-detached house into a contemporary and more practical family home.”

Adrian Pye, International Sales Director at Kebony added: “We are delighted with the growing demand for Kebony extensions, the wood is extremely versatile and can be used for both traditional and modern properties as well as detached, semi-detached or terrace houses. It is evident that Up Architects have carefully considered the brief and created the perfect living space to meet the needs of this young family and the final product is a testament to their hard work.”

•48•

®

MAKE IT SUSTAINABLE

In order to produce a more even greying process, www.organowood.com OrganoWood has developed surface treatments info@organowood.com OrganoWood® 01 Protection & 02 Repellent. The products offer the surface extremely water repellent (superhydrophobic) characteristics that reduce the risk of the phenomenon and promotes a more even greying process. The water repellent properties result in the timber cracking less and becoming more dimensionally stable.

Paints

Mapei’s high-demand training dates revealed for 2020 Mapei has unveiled its extensive list of training dates for 2020, as part of plans to continually utilise its impressive training facility based in Halesowen, West Midlands. ollowing a successful first year of training courses at the facility situated at Mapei Academy, a total of 51 days have been dedicated to training, covering Ceramic Tiling, Resilient Flooring, EWI, Resin, Ultratop Loft, Concrete Repair and Basement Structural Waterproofing.

each tailored training course. Bookings from distributors, contractors, designers and engineers are welcomed, and can be tailored to specific needs and requirements. All training delegates will receive presentation notes, refreshments, a buffet lunch, a factory tour and Mapei goodies.

EWI: January 23, March 26, May 28, July 30, September 24, November 26

There will be 12 dates dedicated for each of the Ceramic Tiling and Resilient Flooring training courses, 6 dates for both EWI and Resin Flooring, and 5 dates each for Ultratop Loft, Concrete Repair, and Basement Structural Waterproofing.

A team made up of Chris Myatt, Adrian Jennings, Neal Perryman, Adrian Jones and Jeremy Mann, as well as relevant product line experts, will be on hand to provide information and expertise at

The dates are as follows:

Concrete Repair: March 17, May 12, July 2, September 15, November 10

F

•50•

Ceramic: January 7, February 4, March 3, April 7, May 5, June 2, July 7, August 4, September 8, October 6, November 3, December 1 Resilient: January 9, February 6, March 5, April 9, May 7, June 4, July 9, August 6, September 10, October 8, November 5, December 3

Resin: February 25, April 28, June 30, July 28, September 29, November 24 Ultratop Loft: January 21, March 24, June 23, August 25, October 27

Basement Structural Waterproofing: February 27, April 2, June 11, September 17, November 19 To book your place on one of Mapei’s coveted training courses, email ukmarketing@mapei.co.uk or call 0121 508 6970

Paints

BT1 - Ground-breaking technology in resisting E. coli and MRSA In time of heightened health risks and being cautious of what we put into our homes, it is now the time take a more in depth look at BT1, the latest technology from CT1 and making sure we always use the healthiest choice in our homes and new builds. n an era of uncertainty and high tension due to COVID-19, we are concerned about the health of our nation and home dwellers. Not only that, but those in clinics, schools and hospitals where the most vulnerable are.

I

CT1 which is the UK’s Number 1 Sealant and Adhesive, is the healthiest choice for the home. Boasting over 25 accreditations, this makes CT1 the healthiest choice for your home.

CT1 has an EC1 certification for the lowest emissions, A+ Green which is awarded for lowest indoor emissions green rated, Green ISO standard and the most unique accreditation and highly accredited, is The Norwegian Asthma and Allergy Association.

The NAAF logo is highly sought after and one of the hardest accreditations to receive. The association test and awards products on their ability to reduce asthma and allergy attacks in the home, and CT1 The Snag List Eliminator has been awarded this. CT1 is the only sealant and adhesive globally to achieve this. A label recognised globally as the highest in its authority for advising and testing of products that reduce asthma and allergy in the home.

CT1 with a unique TRIBRID® formulation has no solvents and is also the most userfriendly sealant and adhesive to use with no odour. CT1 also has an ISEGA food certificate.

But never to rest on their laurels, CT1 who lead the way in research and development for the building industry, realised a massive gap in the market for a unique product for the bathroom only. One which creates a clinically clean bathroom! But on testing and developing the product, the lab tests came back with some unique results.

BT1 Bathroom Sealant Number 1, which has been created to completely fight off bacteria, fungus and all pesticides.

•52•

Ground-breaking technology formulated over 4-year period and vigorous testing has created the most high spec sealant on the market to date.

This has changed the way in which clinics and hospitals will now protect their surface areas and indeed for the construction of new builds!

With a guarantee of colour retention, for up to 25 years. Scientifically formulated in a manner in which bacteria/microbes cannot survive, making it easier to maintain a more hygienic surface, is free from solvents and isocyanates making it ideal sanitaryware product and a product for all public health institutions and clinics.

Hospitals such as Solihull Hospital in Birmingham, Good Hope Hospital in Sutton amongst a few other institutions are now using BT1 for facility repair and maintenance work, for creating a healthier environment.

The real breakthrough that is most prevalent at such a time of spread of infections and high risk level contagious disease, is that BT1 has also been proven to resist microbes such as MRSA, E. coli and Campylobacter.

Many factories also in food processing and handling are also now using this groundbreaking product.

BT1 from the creators of CT1.

Click Here for the BT1 Video

 R

The Snag List Eliminator

      NEW

TRIBRID®

TECHNOLOGY

 approved according to

ETAG 022

Delta Membranes

Overview 512/522 Streatham High Road is a new mixed-use development of storage and office space.

Delta’s Director David J. Symes was delighted to have been involved with this prestigious project from concept which involved a super basement with a footprint of an impressive 1500m2 (wall surface) and 2500m2 (floor surface).

Harmonix were appointed main contractor to create a five-storey structure which included a two-storey basement. Initially the area was excavated to approximately 13,700m3 using contiguous piling to form two basement levels. A new structural concrete slab was laid with three lift pits, with the piles having then been faced with a concrete lining wall.

The project required a robust and a meticulously detailed specification with Delta Registered Installers, Cemplas being appointed waterproofing contractor to guarantee a watertight basement.

The project requirement was for two forms of waterproofing which consisted of a Type B watertight concrete and Type C Cavity

•54•

Drainage Membrane System which would meet all criteria of BS8102:2009 (Code of Practice for Protection of Below Ground Structures against Water from the Ground) and to provide a Grade 3 habitable environment.

Methodology When designing a robust waterproofing solution, attention to detail is critical. The waterproofing design for any new build below ground structure should always be carried out by a CSSW (Certified Surveyor in Structural Waterproofing) or equally qualified surveyor.

When specifying a Type C cavity drainage membrane system, full consideration must be given to the drainage aspect, when installed below ground.

Prior to the installation of the Type C System, the lift pits and piling cap were encapsulated with Koster NB1 waterproof slurry. Koster NB1 active migratory crystalline slurry was applied over the capping beam and taken across the underside of the ground floor soffit to provide protection against the expectation of lateral capillary movement and down the front face of the concrete lining wall.

To reduce the risk of free lime leaching out of new concrete during the curing process,

Koster Polysil TG 500 was applied to the face of the concrete lining wall.

After ensuring the structure water watertight Delta MS 500 Cavity drain membrane was installed to the walls and applied to the face of the concrete lining wall.

Cavity Drainage Systems manage water penetration, Delta drainage channel, a water collection conduit designed to control water ingress was bedded into a preformed recess/gully at the floor/ wall junction with incorporated inspection and maintenance points to comply with BS8102:2009.

stage, it allowed for project team to work together to create and share a range of project documentation with the benefit of interconnectivity which in turn created better project decisions during the correct stages of the project.

Prior to the application of approx. 2500m2 of Delta MS20 membrane the basement slab was thoroughly flood tested which extended to the vertical cavity drain membrane and results recorded on the Delta/Cemplas site monitoring forms to ensure the free passage of water had unhindered access to the sumps. This is an important part of the testing where installing Type C systems and ensures that any debris behind the system is fully flushed away preventing issues in the future and designing out risk.

• • • •

Locations of the sump pump units were suggested during the design phase. By incorporating sump pumps at the design

Products: Delta MS 20 Delta MS 500 Koster Polysil TG 500 Koster NB1

Case Study Results The project successful reflects the relationship between Delta and Cemplas.

Highly accomplished project performance from concept with complete customer satisfaction. Cemplas have created a completely dry and habitable Grade 3 environment two-storey basement which fully complies with all criteria set in BS 8102:2009. It was a pleasure Cemplas and we look forward to the next project!

•55•

sustainability

Quality in Construction - New product Development from Leaders in the Waterproofing Industry, Delta Membranes Delta Membrane Systems Limited lead the field in innovations within the waterproofing sector with the launch of the new Delta PT 3mm Membrane.

elta PT 3mm Membrane has been developed specifically for addressing the issues of damp and contaminated walls, or where fast reinstatement of wall finishes is required after chemical damp proof injection.

D

Delta PT 3mm a High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) low profile studded membrane with a heat welded polypropylene mesh provides a key for plasters, renders and dab fixing of plasterboards.

Air-gap membranes are particularly useful in projects that require water­

pro­ofing, damp proofing or a barrier against contamination, especially in barn conversion projects. Air gap membranes allow for the immediate rein­sta­tement of plastered finishes following treatment.

Our Delta PT 3mm membrane can be used in a variety of ways, are easy to apply and offer a long-term protection to buildings and structures.

Kevin Dodds, Director said “Achieving sustainability in manufacturing requires a comprehensive view spanning not just the product and the manufacturing processes, but also the entire supply chain, including product

lifespan. We recognise the need to provide leadership, promote quality and add value in all aspects of construction especially the waterproofing sector. We shall continue to invest in technologies and to lead the field.”

We specialise in solutions, from the smallest domestic project to high-end residential developments, commercial structures and civil projects which can be tailored to even the most challenging environment – above or below ground.

We consider the entire project process from concept to completion to the very finest of detail and can provide solutions for all project requirements.

Delta has developed a reputation for offering the best technical and customer support for waterproofing and damp proofing systems in the country.

Our technical team offer extensive expertise covering a broad range of specialist systems from concept to installation with troubleshooting and every other step along the way – contact us today on 01992 523 523 or email: info@deltamembranes.com.

•56•

“

sustainability We asked Ecomerchant, supplier of natural and sustainable building products, to give us their take on healthy building.

The Healthy Home?

In our view, a healthy home is ‘one that incorporates healthy design elements, non-toxic building materials, and proper construction techniques. It “breathes”, emits no toxic gasses, and is resistant to mould and decay.

Here are our top tips when designing a healthy building: •

Choose a simple build system

•

Use natural and nontoxic materials

•

Make the best use of natural light

•

Ensure adequate ventilation

•

Ensure that all building elements are compatible

•

Use a breathable vapour open system

•

Make the structure do the work

•

Take a whole-house approach to design

•

Include the end user in the design and build process

Without a doubt, it is the control of moisture and the ventilation of the building that sits at the root cause of most building decay. We also have a huge issue with applying healthy principles to the biggest issue of all refurbishing existing buildings.

Often in these cases, the prophylactic

•58•

principle should be applied, where some anticipation of problems such as damp penetration can be mitigated by choosing materials that can hold onto moisture and let it go later (drying out) or at least minimise or contain the problem. The issue with a more synthetic and hermetic approach is that such problems can often remain hidden deep within the building structure for a long time and on discovery lead to costly and extensive repairs.

To apply healthy principles to any building project you first need to appreciate that the standards by which most UK construction is governed (and built to) do not account for the ‘health’ of a building in all but the most basic ways. So don’t expect a building that meets Building Regulations to be healthy.

To describe an unhealthy home can be more effective at persuading us to adopt healthy principles. We will all recognise the description of an unhealthy building as one that fails to control the internal environment leading to partial, then increasing, early decay of the building fabric in turn leading to mould growth,

rot and a failure of the element(s) to physically perform, the description would further include the use of toxic chemicals in materials and the resulting expulsion into the air of these toxins over time, and it would include the use of materials that contain allergens.

Now most of us will recognise (and probably have experienced) the symptoms of poor building health but it is surprising how many of the houses built today have this very low on the agenda of considerations. The consequences of damp and unhealthy buildings can mean the aggravation of conditions like asthma, in the UK this is a real problem where 1 in 6 people have asthma a massive increase since the stable base in the 1970s with almost 2000 deaths per annum and 75,000 hospital admissions the cost to the state runs into £billions; most of this is directly linked to dust mite faeces which in turn is directly linked to relative humidity in houses, (as you find in an unhealthy house) other moulds, bacteria and diseases present in the same conditions are also linked to asthma.

sustainability

The main contributors to poor building health are the following: •

Water ingress

•

Condensation

•

Failure to control internal moisture

•

Poor build quality

•

The use of toxic materials

•

Poor ventilation

•

Material degradation over time leading to performance failure (e.g. air leaks)

•

Poor design

You can see that it is not only the absence of harmful environmental characteristics but also the presence of beneficial ones that define a healthy building. Designers should begin by avoiding harmful elements and attempt to incorporate supportive beneficial ones.

This is why the inclusion of items such as natural light, ventilation and acoustic

insulation is as important as layout and functionality in the whole house approach.

Real progress is only made when the builder and future occupants work closely with the building’s designer to ensure that all these issues are addressed within the context of how the building is intended to be used.

Thankfully a lot of the approach to building healthy homes is common sense and can be summarised in a few simple principles •

Choose simpler building systems they are more failsafe

•

Manage moisture by creating a breathable shell to provide a means for managing and buffering variations in moisture

•

•

Include natural materials in many applications these will outperform synthetic ones.

Be involved at every stage

As highlighted by recent events the toxicity inherent in our building materials can be a lethal problem especially in the case of fire, one of the most important materials used in the construction of a building is insulation, but can your choice of insulation really affect your health?

A well-insulated house or office will protect your health, comfort and lifestyle but how many of us know and understand how to achieve this?

How we select insulation needs to be about having a real choice and for specifiers to be equipped with the right knowledge to compare materials on a likefor-like basis.

To design a well-insulated building, you need to make informed decisions throughout all phases of a construction project to ensure your building performs as you envisage as mentioned above.

However, selecting the right insulation is about more than just reaching building regulation compliance or ‘keeping in

•59•

sustainability the heat’. It’s about ensuring a building protects its occupants’ entire well-being and comfort in the following ways.

How well does insulation keep the heat out?

In the UK, thermal insulation to protect from the cold is essential, particularly given ever-increasing energy costs.

However, as demand for usable square footage of buildings increases, basement and loft conversions are the routes many now take. However, these parts of a home or office, are the spaces most prone to extremes in temperature. They, therefore, need more thought – i.e. how do you keep a space warm in winter but, for a loft, how to keep it cool come summer.

Compared with synthetic insulation materials, wood fibre insulation has a much higher density. This higher density means that natural insulation makes for a better heat buffer as the high midday temperature will only reach the internal side and be lost at night when the temperature is already cooler outside.

How a building’s breathability is hurting our health A breathable structure is one that allows the passage of moisture.

With 90 percent of all building construction problems associated with water in some way, breathability is essential in measuring a building’s performance and preventing the accumulation of harmful water within the building’s fabric. These are fundamental in reducing health risks from mould, mites that those suffering from respiratory illnesses such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are particularly susceptible to.

For effective breathability, there are four essential components that need to be considered: •

a moisture pathway

•

a driving force

•

a sorptive fabric

•

vapour control.

Natural fibre insulation is most effective as it suppresses potentially harmful water by binding and releasing moisture which helps regulate humidity levels as the moisture moves.

•60•

Easy-to-fit insulation A well-designed building takes into consideration how a material performs throughout the building’s entire life cycle.

This includes ease of installation. Steico’s wood fibre insulation is simple and easy to fit (either packed or friction-fitted), eliminating installer error, keeping construction programmes, tight and costs, low.

How sustainability will save you time and money While all insulation is helping the environment by limiting energy being burnt for heat, natural fibre insulation materials are comparatively more robust. This means that when it comes to disposal, they can be composted – i.e. no specialist waste facilities or landfill. Throughout their lifecycle they will additionally have a much lower, and often, negative carbon footprint.

More than just protecting your home from fire All insulations will meet fire safety standards, but this is a minimum rating.

The key differentiator between natural and synthetic is that natural insulations will prevent the spread of fire and if burnt, will not give off toxic fumes such as cyanide as polyisocyanurates (PIR) might. See article link below to ASBP Healthy Buildings or Toxic Buildings?

Will the house be standing in 100 years?

Condensation is one of the costliest risks to buildings causing huge maintenance repairs and structural damage. Natural materials are better able to absorb and release water whilst remaining dry meaning it is better able to protect from and buffer moisture thereby becoming a key part of healthy living.

sustainability Comfort for occupants When selecting insulation for a building, there are implications for the health of the occupants, the structure of the building, its impact on the environment, its acoustic properties, durability and carbon footprint.

Cancelling out the noise for a peaceful night’s sleep The higher density of natural insulations - such as wood fibre - makes them better at reducing noise. Sounds external to the building, such as traffic or music, as well as those from within the building, through walls and ceilings are attenuated better by wood fibre than synthetic equivalents. In providing better protection from acoustic pollutants, occupants often report a building as being more restful and relaxing thereby encouraging better mental health.

When a building is well-designed and wellbuilt, occupants should be at their peak comfort. With the average person spending approximately 80% of their lives in enclosed rooms, an occupant’s well-being is imperative. Therefore, the products used to achieve this should cover all the issues affecting a building’s construction, its impact on both its occupants and nature.

Further reading ASBP Healthy Buildings Conference summary of key points, https://asbp.org. uk/asbp-news/healthy-buildings-or-toxicbuildings Read the expert’s view on healthy buildings including Professor Stephen Holgate CBE, Clinical Professor of Immunopharmacology at the University of Southampton and coauthor of The Royal College of Physicians ‘Every breath we take‘ report, who explains why poor quality air is a lethal

problem that affects us all, Consultant, Clinical Psychologist at UCL, Dr Sarah Mackenzie Ross who looks at the rapid rise in new chemical entities in our day-to-day environments and the consequences on our health, CIBSE’s Head of Sustainability Development Julie Godefroy who questions the role of Building Regulations in delivering healthy buildings and Professor Anna Stec, fire toxicity expert from University of Central Lancashire who looks at the potential fatal effects when plastics in the home burn.

Visit: www.asbp.org.uk for more on sustainable building products Visit our Protexion campaign page: Ecomerchant and Steico UK have joined forces to launch a protection campaign.

It aims to champion the benefits of using natural insulation products, see www.ecomerchant.co.uk/protexion to learn more .

Contact Ecomerchant Ecomerchant: web: www.ecomerchant.co.uk email: info@ecomerchant.co.uk tel: 01793 847 444

•61•

COMPLETE PACKAGE OF BRETT MARTIN DRAINAGE SOLUTIONS SPECIFIED FOR FOREST OF DEAN DEVELOPMENT High performance, reliable and easy-to-install rainwater and underground drainage systems from Brett Martin Plumbing and Drainage have been specified for a new housing development in Tutshill, Gloucestershire, the village where JK Rowling spent her childhood and inspired many Harry Potter books. ocated in the stunning Forest of Dean, on the banks of the River Wye near Chepstow, Birch Grove includes 45 new three, four and five-bedroom family homes all built to a high-specification for discerning buyers. In order to achieve the desired performance and aesthetics, housebuilder ButlerWall Homes chose a comprehensive and cost-effective range of rainwater and drainage systems which met their demands

L

•62•

for quality, durability, low maintenance and ease-of-installation.

The specification across these family homes included Brett Martin’s Cast Iron Style Cascade Rainwater System comprising a 115mm Half Round Gutter and 68mm Round Downpipe in classic black. Significantly lighter than cast iron rainwater systems, Cascade is much quicker, easier and safer to install at height,

helping to offer the developer huge savings in terms of on-site installation costs. The system also features external fixing lugs designed to facilitate the use of power tools, further speeding up installation.

In addition to the popular classic black colour specified on the Birch Grove Development, Cascade is also available in a further seven heritage colours including Anthracite Grey, Oxford Blue,

Chartwell Green, Olive Green, Graphite Grey, Sandstone and Porcelain White - all of which cater to the subtle nuances of local vernacular architecture. The complete colour range delivers the traditional appearance of Cast Iron with the convenience of modern plastic materials. Cascade is also UV stabilised for a maintenance-free system that will stay looking great and working well for years, and comes with a 10-year guarantee.

The development also saw the installation of Brett Martin’s Adoptable Inspection Chamber Assemblies available in 315mm

and 450mm diameters. Offering superior structural strength, enhanced loading capacity for long term serviceability, these cost-effective lightweight chamber assemblies are easy to install due to watertight push-fit assemblies and a solid, stable connection using the additional connection points in the form of lugs featured on both base and riser.

Brett Martin’s high-performance adoptable chamber assemblies carry the BSI Kitemark KM 635998, are tested to EN13598-1 and satisfy both the requirements of Sewers for Adoption (SfA7) and Building Regulations.

Using a reputable manufacturer such as Brett Martin offers far more than the quality and versatility of the product itself – they provide superior technical support, detailed installation instructions and maintenance guidelines to ensure rainwater systems perform exactly as promised.

With this fabulous new village development now complete, Brett Martin’s Cascade Cast Iron Style Rainwater System and a range of underground drainage solutions have met the aesthetic and performance requirements of the developer whilst ensuring a fast, efficient and economical installation.

To find out more about Brett Martin Plumbing and Drainage visit: www.brettmartin.com

•63•

External works & landscaping

Bring the glamour of Chelsea to your garden with the ultimate in contemporary features and screens from Kangular Adding a stylish, architectural look to gardens that’s worthy of the Chelsea Flower Show or a Grand Designs makeover has never been easier, thanks to Kangular, the ultimate line-up of affordable contemporary features and structural screens that create instant impact. angular empowers the nation’s gardeners and homeimprovers to quickly achieve a sophisticated, designer look: a piece of instant artwork in gardens that wouldn’t look out of place in a gallery, but at a fraction of the cost.

K

The leading range of Designer Features encompass stainless steel and wooden slatted structures in Fan, Wave and Pear shapes with heights ranging from one to three metres, as well as a range of

elegant Structural Screens and Wheelie Bin Enclosures. Shapes can be modified with Kangular’s clever, adjustable slot and wedge fixing.

Unique, eye-catching focal points Kangular’s designer range provides stunning focal points for gardens, borders and driveways, while privacy screens shield gardens from overlooking properties or neighbours – perfect for hot tubs, swimming pools and al-fresco dining areas, as well as enclosing gardens from passing pedestrians or the din of traffic noise. Not only will screens add architectural structure to garden borders or increase the height of existing walls, but they will stylishly enclose driveways, shielding cars, caravans or motorhomes from view.

Owners can ramp-up the wow factor of Kangular structures with uplighters or downlighters that add a new dimension to gardens after dark, while there’s even the option of wine glass holders to safely store drinks. Kangular screens offer a fashionable way to quickly screen-off unsightly areas of gardens – from disguising ugly wheelie bins, compost heaps, water butts and sheds to hiding eyesore utility items such as oil tanks and air conditioning units.

Kangular’s Paul Raven said: “To pay a designer and builder to create and install a structure with the high-end look that Kangular offers would rack-up a bill running into many thousands of pounds, not to mention the time and hassle that’s all too often associated with tracking down reliable, trustworthy tradesmen who will turn up on time and complete the job. In contrast, Kangular structures are quick and easy for gardeners to install themselves,

•64•

while the simple process can be completed in just two hours, creating instant impact outdoors.”

Patented Kangular systems offer countless practical and visual benefits for gardenowners. As well as creating sight lines and partitions, the contemporary designs come into their own for framing a planted area, or for shielding delicate plants from strong or drying winds. Kangular is rapidly becoming the go-to solution for injecting adventure into bland spaces by dividing gardens up into creative outdoor rooms.

Personalised to suit your style Kangular can also be treated as a blank canvass to create shapes that suit varying styles of outdoor living. Screens can be transformed into a Christmas tree design for the festive season, or an eggshape at Easter, for example. A bespoke design service offers the highest levels of customisation, while Kangular can provide Laser marking, enabling special messages

to be engraved into structures to help celebrate a special occasion.

In line with current trends for sustainability in gardens, Kangular structures are both eco-friendly and British-made. The hardwood slats that form the backbone of screens are FSC or EUTR-regulated, while structures are 100% recyclable, too.

For instant transformations, Kangular features are quick and easy to erect, requiring only a spade, spirit level and a hammer – no nails, screws or glue fixings are needed – and for additional convenience, Kangular offers a home installation service, too.

Designed and built to last Kangular structures feature angled, slotted, high-quality stainless-steel columns, strengthened by a patented wedge system, resulting in a robust structure that’s capable of withstanding the worst that the weather throws at it.

The Kangular patented column system is engineered using the latest laser tube cutting technology, while every part of the system has been designed to be aesthetically pleasing. Structures can be placed 1.8m apart and there is no requirement for planning permission. All Kangular features come with a five-year warranty and have a 20-year lifespan, while the Kangular column is warrantied for 10 years for additional peace of mind.

Prices for Kangular’s Designer Fan, Wave and Pear structures start at just £860 including VAT and delivery, while Sculptural Screens cost from as little as £460. Prices for screens that provide privacy around hot tubs and swim spas begin at £1,950.

Kangular Wheelie Bin Enclosures are available in single, double and triple sizes, with prices starting at just £1,960.

Find out more All Kangular products can be purchased directly from www.kangular.com or

email info@kangular.com to find out more.

Pull out box Installing the Kangular system is easy Each set comes with detailed, easy-tounderstand instructions, making installation a breeze. Just follow these three simple steps: (note: bolt-down fixings are available, too) 1.

Dig a hole to the correct depth. Around one third of the Kangular upright should be buried.

2.

Place the Kangular column into the hole, make sure it’s upright and level, then wait for the quick-drying cement to set.

3.

Place the Kangular hardwood sets into the column, secure the slats with a Kangular wedge and your stunning new garden structure is complete

•65•

External works & landscaping

Take a Seat: New Season’s Trends in Garden Chairs Spring finally seems to be taking a first tentative peak from behind the winter clouds, which means attention can at last turn to the exteriors of our homes once again.

This time of year, is always a busy period in the garden furniture trade, as homeowners begin to plan for how they will make the most of their gardens throughout the longer, warmer months to come.

Jo Alexander, an online garden furniture and decor specialist based in Cambridgeshire, said this is the time for landscapers and garden design specialists to get on top of this season’s trends so they can make the best possible recommendations to clients and choose products that really help to bring their plans to life.

A spokesperson said: “It’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with what’s available, what’s really catching

•66•

the eye out there on the market, then you can add value to your clients by helping them to choose great pieces to complete their garden.”

Reclaim a seat Chairs remain a staple of garden furniture, and Jo Alexander says this summer’s stock lines offer a mix of the traditional and contemporary to suit a wide range of tastes. “We expect hardwood garden chairs to continue to be one of our best sellers,” the spokesperson continued. “They are practical, durable and look great. Wood has a special place in people’s hearts when it comes to outdoor furniture, for many it is the go-to choice.

External works & landscaping

“In terms of designs for timber garden chairs for this season, we’re seeing a focus on simple, solid, timeless pieces that are at once understated yet effortlessly elegant.

“Another really important trend in hardwood furniture this year is the use of reclaimed timber. If we look at teak, for example, which is probably the most sought-after hardwood for outdoor furniture because it is naturally weather resistant and so hard wearing, there have started to be a few concerns around sustainability centred on issues like overintensive logging in teak’s natural tropical rainforest habitat, or natural habitats being cleared for commercial plantations.

“But reclaimed teak offers a superb alternative. Pre-used teak is readily available in its native countries, places such as India, Bangladesh, Malaysia and Indonesia, where it is extensively used in construction.

Because it is so hard wearing and durable, when it is pulled off old timber frame buildings, it is still perfect for recycling to make furniture out of. A reclaimed teak garden chair makes a strong, sustainable, beautiful addition to any garden.”

At the other end of the scale from the classic teak chair, Jo Alexander is also seeing an increase in demand for a much more contemporary material for furniture - concrete. “When we think of concrete, we tend to think of tower blocks and big, imposing urban infrastructure, but in recent years some forward-thinking furniture designers have been reinventing concrete as a highly attractive material for our gardens. Polished concrete has a very appealing shine to it and makes a great choice if you want something a little more unusual for our garden.

“The concrete garden chair options we are stocking this year also show how versatile concrete can be - from industrial-looking, cubist-inspired stools to beautifully smooth giant polished ‘pebbles’ that look like they have been picked straight out of a mountain stream.”

•67•

ROOFTOP DEVELOPMENT UTILISED ON ENFIELD’S LYTCHET WAY ESTATE Enfield Council had a pressing need for additional homes for social rent, and with no suitable land available for development, they were inspired by the solution offered by Langley Structures Ltd. This was the innovative ‘Upwardly Living’ rooftop development concept, creating new additional dwellings above existing flat roof housing stock.

Enfield Council were able to utilise the single source design and supply chain offered by Langley for rooftop extensions, flat to pitched conversions and flat roofing.

The council’s Lytchet Way estate, which has a mix of three and four storey blocks, was selected and Langley undertook an in-depth feasibility study. This identified that three of these blocks were suitable for rooftop developments to create new homes on top of existing stock. The site is incredibly well positioned to support densification, having excellent transport links.

Philip Pank Partnership were commissioned by the London Borough of Enfield to provide multi disciplinary services on the project, comprising Contract Administration/Employer’s Agent, Clerk of Works and Quantity Surveying.

“We are delighted to have had the opportunity to provide these services to Enfield and to have gained invaluable experience in the procurement and delivery of the Rooftop Development concept,” commented Sophie Redding, Associate, Philip Pank Partnership.

The rooftop developments, in this case comprising single-storey extensions with light weight pitched roofs, were installed by a Langley Approved Contractor who also carried out extensive flat-to-pitch roof refurbishments on the twelve remaining blocks on the estate.

Enfield Council wanted to avoid decanting residents to temporary accommodation, as this would be a costly logistical operation as well as being disruptive to the community. These challenges were successfully overcome to ensure that the 25 new homes were considerately developed with residents in-situ throughout the entire project.

Enabling works included extending the existing stairwells and services to the new fourth floor level. Langley’s off-site prefabricated floor, wall and ceiling cassettes were lifted into position and assembled on site. They were inspected on a weekly basis by Langley Technical Managers and the contract administrators, to monitor and ensure the quality of workmanship.

The lightweight, pitched framing system was covered with Langley Roman strip tiles and had sun tubes installed to utilise natural light within windowless kitchens. Photovoltaic (PV) panels were mounted at roof level to provide electricity for communal services.

A robust fire protection strategy included internal works to extend fire breaks at all existing party walls within the roof void to the underside of the roof membrane level. New service risers for electricity and gas were constructed at each end elevation, then distributed via the new roof void to the new flats below.

“Rooftop development represented a cost-effective way of adding to our housing stock without the need to acquire new land, which is often in short supply.”

- Project Manager at Enfield Council This project supports the Government housing objectives regarding the efficient use of space to deliver new homes by building up rather than building out, using the space above existing buildings to create new homes.

Support for this approach was re-iterated by the Housing Secretary in February 2018. (source: Fixing Our Broken Housing Market White Paper, Department for Communities and Local Government).

To discover more information about Rooftop Developments, view Langley’s video case study.

The video demonstrates the benefits of Rooftop Development for social housing landlords looking to develop their portfolio. It also showcases the award-winning Lytchet Way Estate, featuring time-lapse footage of the entire project.

Visit: www.langleystructures.co.uk Or, to book a feasibility survey for your building estate, contact enquiries@langley.co.uk

BEFORE EXPERTS IN ROOFTOP CAPITALISATION

AFTER

Langley Structures Ltd is helping social housing providers to make the most of their buildings by transforming and redefining the roofscape by providing new dwellings on top of existing flat roofs using their ‘upwardly living’ approach.

Book your in-house CPD seminar today! www.langleystructures.co.uk

T: 01327 704778 F: 01327 704845 E: CPD@langley.co.uk

Langley’s expertise can help clients exploit the space above their buildings and help deal with the chronic shortage of both affordable housing and the lack of new homes.

There is no land to acquire and no long term planning consultation process to undertake, plus, the speed of build is considerably quicker compared to conventional construction methods. The Rooftop Development also allows dwellings below to continue as homes with residents remaining in-situ during the build.

Inva Stair Riser is a game changer The newly re-designed Inva Stair Riser is a game changer when it comes to incline stair lift design and innovation.

he stair lift now comes with a graphic display panel which keeps the user up to date with the operation status and importantly also indicates if the stop button has been depressed or if the unit is not located on its charging points. Both of which are unnecessary and expensive reasons for breakdown call outs.

T

The new design also allows for coloured LED lighting to be added to both sides and across the top of the carriage adding improved individual adaption on the unit.

The platform lift has been re-designed, to take advantage of the latest technology.

•70•

The unit now has modern touch sensitive controls and a smooth fresh carriage design. To make it easier to use, there is an integrated graphic display panel, which indicates travel and usage instructions.

The lift comes with safety arms which fold out during use, and then fold away behind the closed platform, reducing the possibility of misuse when the unit is parked. For added comfort, the platform also offers a fold down seat on the carriage for nonwheelchair users.

But, perhaps most exciting of all, are the customisation options now available on the lift. You can also specify a personalised

graphic or image to be shown on the underside of the safety tray, which can be seen when the lift is not in use - adding style and design to the lift.

With an impressive 300kg capacity, as well as convenient wireless remote call buttons, this is a remarkable stair platform lift.

Available in standard RAL colours, a three year warranty completes the package.

Please contact the Invalifts team on 0845 468 2543 or email sales@invalifts.com for further information on the Inva Stair Riser and the other products in the Invalifts range of lifts. www.invalifts.com

Platform Lifts

Heating & ventilation

Our range of platform lifts includes the Commercial Platform Lift (right) - a premium quality enclosed platform lift with a customisable finish, and the option of glazing on 3 sides.

Designed for offices, schools and public buildings with small footprints available, this is a premier platform lift.

We also offer stair platform lifts and a range of platform lifts for both internal and external use.

The Platform Lift Experts

Tel: 0845 4682543 Web: www.invalifts.com

•23•

HOME-DESIGNER AND ARCHITECT

MAGAZINE

Recommended suppliers

Rinnai UK Main Office: 9 Christleton Court, Manor Park, Runcorn WA7 1ST London Office: 5th Floor Hyde Park Hayes 3, 11 Millington Road, Hayes UB3 4AZ

Rinnai is a global leader in gas appliance manufacturing, striving for reliable and consistent quality. Rinnai specialise in the development of Commercial and Multi-point water heaters.

www.rinnai-uk.co.uk

Leaders in the electric heating and hot water industry for 15 years.

Electric Heating Company Unit 40 Block 5, Third Road Blantyre Industrial Estate Blantyre Glasgow G72 0UP

www.electric-heatingcompany.co.uk

With more than 30 years of experience, selling to more than 120 countries around the world, Panasonic is unquestionably one of the leaders in the heating and cooling sector.

SAiGE Longlife Decking Ltd Vicarage Barns, Lower Quinton, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, United Kingdom, CV37 8SG

www.aircon.panasonic.eu