April 2018

APRIL 2018 

Insurance issues 

Business start-up tips 

Payment points 

FEATURES 

DAKEA 

GIVEAWAY! 

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• DORMER WINDOWS: 

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• STORAGE ISSUES: 

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Editor’s Comment 

MATT DOWNS 

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR 

MATTDOWNS@MEDIA-NOW.CO.UK 

COVER PIC: 

COURTESY OF 

KEMPER SYSTEM 

The demise of Carillion has brought the issue of payment front 

and centre for specialist contractors; Carillion’s collapse 

reportedly left 30,000+ small businesses with money still owed 

to them, and the construction giant was said to have in excess of 

£1.5bn worth of outstanding payments whilst having issued three 

profit warnings in just five months. 

Unfortunately, there will be many casualties from this disaster and the 

ripples will be felt for years to come, but we all know payment is a 

perennial problem for specialist contractors, one that they have to 

negotiate from project to project. It’s a problem that associations and 

construction bodies have tried to address throughout the years but 

with little success; is this because when you have a supply chain with 

somebody at the top, more often than not, someone gets squeezed? 

Even if there is an inevitability when it comes to poor payment practice, 

this shouldn’t mean the people who can do something about it should 

stop looking for solutions, and it certainly won’t stop us debating the 

topic in Total Contractor. As such, we have input from two experienced 

roofing contractors in this issue with Jason Wright discussing some of 

the situations he’s found himself in on projects over the years (p68), 

and Simon Smith outlining the many hurdles a specialist contractor has 

to clear – away from the installation side of projects – just to get paid 

on time and in full (p72). Perhaps it won’t make pleasant reading, but 

I’d say it’s important reading for any contractor looking to focus on what 

they do best, rather than worrying about getting paid. 

NEW 

B 

A PRIC CE 

C£C£OMP£GET £AY£DA£O£T£D£ARISO £PA ON 

A 

* P 

£T 

Matt 

Roofing contractor Garhigh Southern carried out renovation works at ADM 

Milling penthouse using Kemper System’s Kemperol 2K-PUR: See p42 

FOLLOW US @TOTCONTRACTORUK 

SIGN UP FOR YOUR WEEKLY E-BLAST AT 

WWW.TOTAL-CONTRACTOR.CO.UK 

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Publishing Director: Andy Dunn: 

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reserved. 

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APRIL 2018 TC 3

Contents 

ON THE COVER 

10 DAKEA GIVEAWAY 

Find out how to grab one of ten goodie bags 

courtesy of Dakea! 

20 BE SURE TO INSURE 

Looking to diversify? Paul Young says make 

sure you’re covered 

32 DORMER DETAILS 

There are many types of dormer windows, and 

each requires its own specific detailing... 

36 AN INSPECTOR CALLS 

Icopal’s Inspector explains how poor storage of 

materials can cost both time and money 

38 

FEATURES 

14 THE HEIGHT OF SAFETY 

NFRC’s Gary Walpole answers questions on safety 

when working at height 

62 

24 AMBASSADORIAL DUTIES 

We talk to Sarah Spink about her role as a construction 

ambassador, training and perceptions of roofing 

28 THE SPECIFICS 

Philip Ferguson says the importance of quality 

workmanship can never be underestimated 

30 UK ROOFING AWARDS 

The finalists have been announced and it’s almost time 

for the big day! 

44 GO GREEN 

Karl Moxon outlines the key considerations to make 

when embarking on a green roof installation 

52 DON’T GET IN A FIX 

With the poor weather we’ve experienced recently, Jason 

Wood says always think about your fixings and location 

4 TC APRIL 2018

REGULARS 

18 CONTRACT TALK 

Thinking about setting up on your own? Janine 

Brady offers advice on how to get started 

70 TOTAL VEHICLES 

To lease or buy? that is the question and we 

take a look at the various options open to you 

INDUSTRY NEWS 

06 LIQUID GROWTH 

As the liquid sector continues to grow, issues remain 

around certification with some ‘off the shelf’ products 

12 BRAND AWARENESS 

Wienerberger offers ‘a visual snap-shot’ of its mission 

and values to stakeholders with its new brand campaign 

72 PAY PALS? 

Simon Smith looks at the many hurdles you 

have to clear in the hope of getting paid 

74 RECRUITMENT 

Looking to move on in your career? We’ve got a 

selection of the latest vacancies 

70 

SECTIONS 

WWW.TOTAL-CONTRACTOR.CO.UK 

32 

TOTAL 

ROOFING 

48 TOTAL 

CLADDING 

56 TOTAL 

INSULATION 

44 


Industry News 

PLANNING AHEAD 

Following the announcement by Prime 

Minister Theresa May of a reform to the 

national planning policy in an attempt to 

encourage developers to stop sitting on 

land and build more homes, Russell Roof 

Tiles MD Andrew Hayward has welcomed 

this development but questioned whether 

the plans go far enough. 

Andrew explained: “Any focus at Senior 

Government Level which gives attention to all 

relevant parties and the need for speed and 

efficiency in the UK housing market can only 

be a good thing. However, it is not as simple 

as pointing fingers at developers who have 

not built on approved land. 

“This is because a number of factors may 

have a significant impact on the speed and 

delays in builds. This can include a lack of 

employee skillsets and the availability of 

skilled trades, the cost of the build, value for 

money as well as planning obstacles. 

“While it is good to hear plans to speed up 

the planning process even further, I suspect 

streamlining the criteria and process is key to 

its success. 

“For contractors, the unlocking of potential 

new sites for housebuilding could also lead to 

an increase in business for many contractors 

supplying housebuilding developments and 

these changes may also see a quicker 

process required, with developers now 

requiring building materials sooner rather 

than later. 

“We, as a country, should look at other 

strong economic countries within Europe, 

with regard to speed and efficiency in 

planning and construction, irrespective of 

Brexit, and see what we can implement 

quickly to meet the 300,000 annual 

targets.” 

‘OFF THE SHELF’ ISSUES AS LIQUIDS GROW 

Research undertaken by the 

Liquid Roofing and Waterproofing 

Association (LRWA) shows that 

the liquid applied roofing sector 

has grown by more than 30% 

since 2013, making it “the fastest 

growing part of the flat roofing 

market”. 

own issues with the influx of new 

manufacturers and roofing 

contractors emerging into the 

market, and it’s important to ensure 

high standards are still being met. 

Sarah Spink, CEO of the LRWA “In 2018, one of our key targets is 

to help make contractors more 

aware when choosing ‘off the shelf products’ sold 

Recent figures from the LRWA’s research 

through distribution networks, which in some 

recorded a 35% growth in its members’ turnover cases are imports from overseas. Whilst there are 

– measured in m² – for liquid-applied 

some good liquid products available through 

waterproofing in the last four years. 

distribution networks or builders’ merchants, 

there has increasingly been issues with many 

The LRWA also points to a rise in membership 

being sold without any testing or certification, and 

which it says reflects sector growth, with an 

simply do not meet an acceptable standard. 

increase from 16 manufacturer members in 

Contractors using unproven products bought 

2013, to 25 in 2016. 

through a distributor could result in them having 

Despite sector success, the association does add more liability than they realise. This not only 

a note of caution with regard to an increase of creates a headache for contractors, but poor 

new products emerging onto the market to meet product performance also devalues the high 

demand being sold without testing or certification. standards in our industry. It’s important for 

This, the association points out, creates liability contractors to remember there is plenty of advice 

issues for contractors. 

and guidance available from trade associations – 

like the LRWA – to help protect them from a 

Sarah Spink, CEO of the LRWA believes the issue 

potentially very costly roofing or waterproofing 

will continue well into 2018 and potentially 

project.” 

increase in severity once the UK leaves the EU 

and opens up the market to new liquid products Sarah concluded: “Despite these challenges, 

imported from across the globe. She explained: 2018 looks set to be another positive year for the 

“The successes of rapid growth do present their liquid market.” 

ONE WARRANTY PROVES APPEALING 

Uptake of SIG Roofing’s ONE Warranty has Steve Pearson, Procurement Director, explained: 

reportedly more than doubled in the last 12 “The growth in the usage of ONE Warranty 

months, with the specialist roofing supplier reflects the fact that it covers the widest range of 

putting this increase down to the roofing pitched roof coverings from the UK’s leading 

sector’s demand for “no strings attached” manufacturers – and there are no strings 

warranties. 

attached. 

The company says it recorded a 139% rise in “There is no hidden agenda; we just wanted to 

2017 compared to the previous year, and believes provide a warranty that is easy to understand and 

that the clarity and transparency of ONE Warranty even easier to use and covers pitched roof product 

is the key reason for its appeal, with no 

performance for 15 years in a single warranty to 

unexpected surprises hiding in the small print. cover all of the key elements of a roof.” 


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Industry News 

EXPLORING THE 

POSSIBILITIES 

The A. Proctor Group says it was delighted to 

welcome adventurer and explorer, Sir Ranulph 

Fiennes, and 70 industry guests to its 2018 

Spring Social event in London. 

This year the event was held on the luxurious 

Sunborn London Yacht Hotel in the historic 

Royal Victoria Dock. 

On-board the Sunborn, guests were invited to 

take in the city views from the unique vantage 

point atop the open-air Sky Lounge deck, before 

being treated to a three-course dinner in the 

stately wood-panelled West India Dock room. 

Keira Proctor, A. Proctor Group Managing 

Director, began the evening with an engaging 

introduction to the A. Proctor Group and its 

80+ year history as a family-run business. 

During her talk, she described the risks the 

business has taken to transform the once 

agriculture-focused company into today’s 

internationally respected construction materials 

brand. Keira also talked about the steps the 

company is now taking to develop new, 

innovative products and establish the A. 

Proctor Group as the experts on HAMM 

Principles (Heat, Air and Moisture 

Movement). 

Shortly after dinner, Sir Ranulph 

commandeered the microphone and took the 

audience on a 60-minute adventure ride 

describing some of the most gruelling 

challenges and world-record setting 

experiences of his career to date as an explorer. 

Trying to keep up with the pace of Sir Ranulph’s 

talk seemed to make the audience breathless; 

at times from laughing at his poker-faced 

delivery of jokes and the not so occasional dig 

at his long-term challengers, the Norwegians, 

and at other times simply out of awe and 

wonder at the superhuman tests he had 

faced, endured and overcome. 

MASTIC ASPHALT STILL ‘HIGHLY RELEVANT’ 

At an event held by the Mastic Asphalt Council 

to celebrate the use of mastic asphalt in 

modern construction, green architect and TV 

presenter Charlie Luxton told those assembled 

that mastic asphalt is a “highly relevant” 

building material for today. 

More than 40 contractors and architects had 

gathered for the event at the crypt of St Paul’s 

Cathedral, which itself used mastic asphalt for 

the refurbishment of the dome gallery. 

Charlie told those assembled that he was using 

mastic asphalt on the construction of his own 

home. Specifically on the build of a complex stair 

detail where the stairs descend through a flower 

bed. Mastic asphalt was used to form stairs, 

upstands, sumps and drainage outlets – a 

“hugely complex 3D object,” according to Charlie. 

“This is what mastic asphalt can offer – 

waterproofing, a durable surface, even a 

decorative finish,” he said. 

“In some ways mastic asphalt might be perceived 

as an old fashioned building material. But there is 

a reason it has been around so long. Many of you 

The availability of stock and its ability to fulfil 

orders quickly were the combination of factors 

behind the strong sales growth at SR Timber, 

according to Trading Director Shaun Revill. 

Shaun explained: “Fundamentally, Premium Gold 

is a fantastic product, and the roofing industry is 

responding to it because they can rely on it – in 

terms of both its quality and performance. And, 

crucially, it’s fully graded and compliant to BS 5534. 

Charlie Luxton (second from right) discusses the 

waterproofing on the walkway of the dome gallery at St 

Paul’s Cathedral, which has recently been protected with 

mastic asphalt 

probably don’t even think about it as relevant to 

you in modern practice but like many long-lasting, 

tried and tested materials, it is being re-imagined 

and modified and re-examined as a highly 

relevant building material for today,” continued 

Charlie 

When introduced by MAC chairman Keith Collins, 

Charlie admitted: “When asked to do this talk I 

was relieved because sometimes I’m asked to 

talk on things I know nothing about, and more 

importantly have no opinion about. But in this 

case I am a paid-up member of the mastic 

asphalt fan club.” 

STRONG SUPPLY CHAIN, STRONG RESULTS 

“Sales to our existing customers continue to rise, 

but what was most pleasing in 2017 was the fact 

that we were able to introduce Premium Gold to 

contractors, roofers and builders who hadn’t used 

it before – and not only were they very impressed 

with it, it also translated into repeat orders. 

“However, it’s not just about having great 

products that helps drive sales – our ability to 

process and deliver orders is setting us apart as 

a reliable supplier of a quality product. We are 

only as strong as our supply chain, and we 

continually test the strength of every link in our 

supply chain so that it stands up to scrutiny, 

ensuring that we have plentiful supplies of timber 

roofing batten.” 

Left: Shaun Revill, SR Timber’s Trading director 


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Industry News 

CONTRACTORS NEED TO BE AWARE OF REVISIONS TO BS 5534 

New revisions have been announced to BS 

5534 which have seen it updated to include 

the new BS 8612 Dry Fix Standard. 

BS 5534: 2014 + A2:2018 was published on 

28th February 2018, and following a four-month 

transition period for those in the industry to get up 

to speed, it will be effective from 1st July 2018. 

Key changes are said to include: 

• A widening of the scope to make it absolutely 

clear that re-roofing and repairs are covered 

under BS 5534. 

• The updates have also made things clearer 

regarding old roofs, and especially for historically 

or architecturally important buildings where the 

British Standard may not be appropriate. It 

advises those working on these projects to consult 

with the local planning authority for 

repair or replacement of these roofs. 

•BS 8612: Dry-fixed ridge, hip and 

verge systems for slating and tiling 

spec has now been added to BS 5534 

along with BS 8000-0: Workmanship on 

construction sites. 

•A revised clause concerning temporary weather 

protection before the installation of the primary 

roof covering, aimed at protecting underlay 

exposure to UV light has been included. 

•Improved interpretation of the results from the 

test method for determining the resistance to wind 

uplift of roof tile clips. 

• New definitions for low water vapour resistance 

(type LR) and air permeable underlays. 

Left: Stuart Nicholson, Marley Eternit: “It is 

important that roofing contractors and 

specifiers are aware of the extent of the 

revisions.” 

•New definitions for continuous and 

discontinuous ceilings. 

Roof tile manufacturer Marley Eternit has 

said it welcomes the revisions. Stuart Nicholson, 

Roof Systems Director at Marley Eternit, 

explained: “This is the second amendment to BS 

5534 since major revisions were introduced in 

2014. 

“We were expecting to see the inclusion of the 

new Dry-fix Standard, but it also includes further 

changes, particularly addressing some concerns 

about the application of roof underlays. It is 

important that roofing contractors and specifiers 

are aware of the extent of the revisions.” 

GRAB ONE OF TEN DAKEA GOODIE BAGS! 

GET YOUR GOODIE BAG 

Dakea has teamed up with Total Contractor 

and is giving away TEN prize bundles that 

include a hat, jacket and water bottle to keep 

you warm and hydrated on those chilly spring 

mornings! See right for how to get your hands 

on one Dakea’s goodie bags! 

About Dakea and Dakea Ultima: 

Dakea roof windows are engineered to provide 

superior quality and ease of installation – the 

result of over 75 years’ experience of window 

design and manufacturing. Dakea products are 

made in Europe from the highest quality 

components and undergo rigorous testing to 

ensure they will stand the test of time. 

The Dakea Ultima window has an innovative 

noise reduction system, which reduces external 

noise 50% more effectively than comparable 

windows. 

Outstanding energy efficiency is provided by 

superior, krypton filled glazing and two lowemission 

coatings that deliver ultra low heat loss 

of just 1.2 W/m²K. The glazing preserves warmth 

in winter, prevents overheating in the summer 

and blocks 95% of harmful UV radiation. 

Its toughened external pane is extra thick 

and includes a lifetime warranty 

against hail damage. The 

lamination on the internal 

pane ensures full impact 

protection and safety for 

homeowners. 

To ensure peace of mind, 

Ultima has been tested against 

hurricane force winds, 50kg impacts 

and 600 litres of water falling in just one hour – 

the equivalent of the annual rainfall per square 

metre in London. 

All of this is backed up by a 20-year warranty, 

exceptional customer service and guaranteed 

next day delivery. 

For more information on the Dakea range visit: 

www.dakea.com. 

To be in with a chance of claiming your 

Dakea goodie bag, which includes a hat, 

jacket and water bottle, simply head to 

our Twitter feed @TotContractorUK, follow 

us, and retweet the pinned tweet. It 

really couldn’t be easier to get 

your hands on one of ten 

Dakea goodie bags! 

The competition runs until 

11th May 2018, when ten 

lucky winners will be chosen 

at random, and once we have 

received the contact details, the 

goodie bags will be sent directly out! 

It’s easy to win! 

1. Visit @TotContractorUK 

2. Follow @TotContractorUK 

3. Retweet the pinned Tweet! 

T&C’s: You have 2 weeks from contact to send us your 

contact details so we can send out the prizes. Ten 

winners will be chosen at random on 11th May. There is 

no cash equivalent. 


Handrails:- EasyGuard 

free-standing Guardrails 

*CurveyGuard – an aesthetically pleasing curved rail. 

*EasyGuard – raked or straight legs dependant on 

application. *FoldGuard – folding handrail. 

Trip hazard reduction – long thin base-plates with 

Counterweights used on un-secured ends only. Placed at 2m 

centres maximum to enable use for leading edge protection. 

Galvanised or powder coated finish. Protective mats 5mm 

bonded to the base plates. 

Standards – Exceeds Class A EN13374- Class A; For 

leading edge protection HSE/SR 15, September 1988. 

Nationwide delivery or contract installation. – Free material 

quantifying service – info@safetyworksandsolutions.co.uk 

Ladders:- Easy Fit 

Compliant to both BS/EN 5395 and 14122 – 

To comply with the standards for 

permanent ladders all mild steel then hot 

dipped galvanised to BS/EN 1461. 

All typical ladders bespoke – email 

info@safetyworksandsolutions.co.uk for a 

survey check sheet. 

Easy Fit, all ladder components are Easy 

to assembly; in manageable parts Easy to 

handle and install. 

Rest Platforms and ladders with special 

fixing requirements; solutions provided by 

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(All components for British Standard 

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Industry News 

NEW BRAND 

CAMPAIGN VIDEO 

In an attempt to forge further meaningful 

connections with the entire construction 

supply chain, Wienerberger says it has 

unveiled a new brand campaign video as an 

added asset to its communications strategy. 

The new video is said to visually represent 

the company’s overall mission and values. 

Focusing on the ethos of Wienerberger 

working to positively impact people’s lives, 

the video promotes an emotional connection 

with its audience as it brings the company’s 

four cornerstones to life; quality and 

expertise, value, innovation and 

sustainability. The video, narrated by British 

television presenter Dan Cruickshank, 

includes footage taken from Wienerberger’s 

factories, quarries and Head Office, as well 

as a wide range of stunning case studies. 

Annette Forster, Marketing Director at 

Wienerberger, commented: “We believe that 

in such a fast-paced, digital world, it’s 

essential that we offer a visual snapshot of 

our mission to all of our stakeholders, and 

our new brand campaign does exactly that. 

By showcasing our wide range of products 

and services available, as well as an insight 

into our projects, case studies and customer 

support, the video offers an accurate 

reflection of Wienerberger today and will be 

regularly updated over the coming months.” 

View the video here: 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8hBpGkS 

FtUc&feature=youtu.be 

REBRAND FITS WITH “CHANGING” SECTOR 

The NFRC launched its new logo as part of its 

rebrand at Ecobuild 2018. 

The UK’s largest roofing trade association 

explained that its members can use the logo once 

they have passed the NFRC’s strict Code of 

Conduct and standards of quality. As such, the 

association says it is a powerful mark of approval 

which singles out NFRC members as trustworthy, 

dependable and reliable roofing contractors to 

their customers. 

Amanda Brackey, Head of Marketing and 

Communications, who led the rebranding 

initiative in consultation with NFRC stakeholders, 

explained that the result is a modern design 

which reflects the aspirations of NFRC and the 

sector: “Our logo is the most important element of 

our identity and is prized by our members. 

“NFRC has been promoting contractors and 

championing best practice in our industry for 

more than 125 years. While we need to retain its 

history and long-established reputation for 

improving quality, safety and skills, we want to be 

identified as genuinely progressive and inspiring.” 

In what it describes as a move to “underpin 

its customer-centric approach and 

commitment to driving innovation in the built 

environment”, Knauf Insulation has launched 

a new brand identity: ‘challenge. create. care.’ 

The insulation manufacturer says the new brand 

identity, which is being rolled out globally, reflects 

the business’ expanded aspirations and 

NFRC also explained it has a strategy for growth, 

with services in areas like accreditation, 

recruitment, skills development and digital 

knowledge sharing being key areas for future 

development. 

James Talman, NFRC Chief Executive, explained: 

“The roofing industry is changing fast. New 

technology and new ways of working are having 

a huge impact; so are big challenges around 

skills, materials and legislation. What never 

changes is the demand for quality. This rebrand 

reflects our key credentials for raising standards, 

delivering great service, sharing expertise, 

supporting the industry and looking to the 

future.” 

A roll-out of the new branding to NFRC members 

started on 2nd April 2018. 

NEW IDENTITY FOR KNAUF INSULATION 

Visit Knauf Insulation’s new website: www.knaufinsulation.co.uk 

Above: The NFRC’s new logo is part of a rebrand that reflects 

the aspirations of the NFRC and the sector 

ambitious vision for the future, whilst building on 

its successful past. 

Vanessa Rae, Marketing Director at Knauf 

Insulation Northern Europe, explained: “Our aim 

is to be the world’s most trusted insulation 

partner, providing high performance, smart 

insulation solutions and services for a better 

world. By challenging conventional thinking and 

working in real partnership with our customers 

and stakeholders, we will create innovative 

insulation solutions that go beyond energy 

efficiency and really change the way we live and 

build. We’re committed to leading this change 

across the industry; the new brand identity 

underlines our position and is a clear statement 

of intent.” 


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PITCHED ROOFING 

FLAT ROOFING 

INDUSTRIAL ROOFING

Working at Height 

MAKE SURE YOU USE YOUR HEAD 

WHEN WORKING AT HEIGHT 

The National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) receives regular queries from its 

members on safety, legislation and technical advice. In this regular feature, the association 

will share some of its most frequently asked questions along with the advice given. This 

month Gary Walpole, technical officer, answers questions on working at height. 

Q.Is enough being done by our industry to 

tackle the large number of people who 

die as a result from falling from height? 

A: For the industry, this is a key issue in keeping 

roofers safe and one that needs to be continually 

addressed. We’ve got the Work at Height 

Regulations (2005) in place and many are doing 

good work to reduce accidents, but there’s still a 

lack of awareness among smaller companies and 

especially homeowners. Ultimately, the 

regulations and their enforcement have not 

changed behaviour sufficiently enough, so we 

have to work co-operatively to find new ways of 

influencing a change in culture. 

In fact, just two months ago, the All Party 

Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Working at Height 

launched with an inquiry into injuries and 

fatalities caused by falls from height and falling 

objects. 

It followed damning statistics 

published by the HSE in 2017, 

which found that falls from 

height were the most 

common cause of fatal injury 

of workers in the past five 

years, with just under half of 

those fatalities happening in 

construction. NFRC has submitted its 

response and we look forward to the APPG’s 

final conclusions. 

“Schemes such as the 

forthcoming 

accredited roofer 

scheme, will certainly 

help clients make 

informed decisions” 

Left: Gary Walpole, technical officer at 

the NFRC 

Q: What do you believe are 

the main causes and 

solutions to the problem? 

A: A critical issue is the lack of 

control of who carries out the works 

at height, what training is required, and how to 

verify relevant skills, knowledge and 

experience. 

There’s also a lack of understanding about 

hazards. 

For example, engineers servicing M&E on flat 

roofs may be blissfully unaware about the 

dangers of fragile surfaces or open edges. 

There is also a common assumption that a task 

which only takes a minute to complete is

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Working at Height 

somehow less risky, which leads to safety being 

ignored. 

We therefore need to better communicate to 

clients, principal designers, contractors and 

workers that to comply with regulations and 

reduce accidents you must first plan the work, 

then use the right equipment, and then use 

competent contractors. 

If these three things are followed, then we will 

see a reduction in accidents. 

Simplifying the narrative for smaller businesses 

that don’t have the in-house expertise would also 

help them to understand the legislation. 

There are also some specific measures we could 

be taking to prevent falls, or falling objects from 

height which are not currently required by law. 

A working at height training programme, which is 

accredited to the operative and renewed on an 

ongoing basis, is one place to start. 

This could build upon the working at height 

section of the CITB Health, Safety and 

Environment Test, while training should be 

required for working with specific equipment such 

as mobile towers. 

The client and building owners also need a better 

understanding of the dangers and their legal 

responsibility when selecting suitable contractors. 

Designing-in safety such as higher parapets 

would also make the building more maintenancefriendly, 

and the use of drones or high-definition 

aerial photography could help at the inspection 

and survey stage. 

Digital technologies will increasingly have a role 

to play. For example, specialists can offer 

photographic surveys and reports that calculate 

roof length, pitch, and additional features on both 

“A critical issue is the 

lack of control of who 

carries out the works at 

height” 

“There is also a 

common assumption 

that a task which only 

takes a minute to 

complete is somehow 

less risky” 

residential and commercial properties without the 

need to access the roof. 

Then there are Virtual Reality headsets that might 

give trainees a better understanding of the 

hazards they will face early on. 

As smart glasses technology evolves, an 

operative on a roof could share something that 

they see or are worried about and transmit this 

directly to an experienced safety manager who is 

not on site. This will allow them to advise the 

operatives on how to proceed and update any 

amendments to risk assessment immediately. 

Q: How can we broadcast the fact that we 

adhere to health and safety legislation when it 

comes to falls from height? 

A: A contractor must be able to show that they 

have the skills, knowledge, experience and for 

organisations, it’s the capability to carry out the 

work safely and without risk to health. 

Similarly, when a contractor employs or appoints 

an individual to carry out work, they must make 

sure the individual has the skills, knowledge, 

experience and training to carry out the work in a 

way that secures health and safety, or is in the 

process of obtaining them. 

The required level of skills, knowledge and 

experience (and training where required) should 

be proportionate to the complexity of the work and 

the range and nature of the risks involved. 

NFRC, in conjunction with the CITB, is beginning 

the process of launching an accredited roofing 

scheme which will place safe working practices 

at its core by ensuring an accredited workforce 

have the necessary skills to carry out work at 

height. 

Schemes such as the forthcoming accredited 

roofer scheme will certainly help clients make 

informed decisions when choosing a contractor, 

much in the same way that most homeowners 

will get Gas Safe-accredited plumbers to install 

and service their boilers. 

Contact the NFRC 

020 7638 7663 

www.nfrc.co.uk 

@TheNFRC 


ALUMINIUM, RELY ON 

THE BUILDING MATERIAL 

OF THE FUTURE 

ALUMINIUM ROOF & FAÇADE SYSTEMS 

For us, aluminium is the most flexible material used in construction 

engineering. Not least because the material has excellent folding properties. 

Thanks to a refined alloy, aluminium is pliable and extremely flexible 

to work with even in extreme temperatures below freezing point. 

The time needed at the construction site is significantly reduced too. We 

deliver the material to you in a perfectly prepared condition. In addition, 

with the appropriate technical expertise, our products can be quickly and 

easily mounted (on a roof pitch exceeding just 3°). 

Lightweight, robust, long-lasting, environmentally-friendly, ideal to work 

with, versatile in design – aluminium possesses all the characteristics that 

you could wish for in a material. 

office.uk@prefa.com 

www.prefa.com 

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Contract Talk 

TAKING THOSE FIRST STEPS INTO 

ESTABLISHING YOUR OWN BUSINESS 

To support our readers, Total Contractor has asked SIG Roofing to cover different aspects of 

setting up and running a business as a roofing contractor in our Contract Talk section. 

Janine Brady, Marketing Manager, starts at the beginning by looking at some of the things 

that those who are thinking about starting out on their own need to consider. 

nlike a lot of other routes to starting a new 

business – such as franchising, where 

investors can buy an established 

business with little or no prior experience – 

starting your own roofing business appeals 

because you’ve already got the skills and 

experience from being on the tools. 

It’s the logical next step if you want to be your 

own boss, run projects your way and, most 

appealing of all, potentially earn more money. 

So what are the steps you need to follow if you’re 

planning to branch out on your own? 

Make a plan 

It may sound like we’re stating the obvious, but 

making plans helps to make things real – 

especially if you write things down. 

Business plans can be as little as one page of A4 

paper, as long as they have the right things in 

them. Here are some suggested headings, which 

start with a vision that becomes a series of bitesized 

action points. 

•Vision – this is a single statement about where 

you want the business to be in the future. For 

example: I want to be the best slating and tiling 

business in St Ives. 

•Mission – this only has to be a couple of points 

about how you’re going to achieve the vision. For 

example: I will use SIG Roofing’s ONE Warranty 

scheme to offer customers a 15-year single 

package warranty on all my work. 

•Objectives – these will be a couple of key 

milestones for the business in the first few years. 

For example: I would like a full order book within 

the first three months. 

•Strategies – these will be up to six strands of 

activity about how you will go about getting a full 

order book. For example: I will become part of a 

trusted trader scheme. 

•Actions – these will include a series of 

individual actions to achieve each element of the 

strategy. For example: I will compile a portfolio of 

the roofing projects I have worked on to use as 

part of my submission to a trusted trader 

scheme. 

Once the plan is on paper, it’s amazing how 

quickly your business will start to come to life. 

Tell everyone 

It’s probably not appropriate to tell your current 

boss, but tell everyone else who matters because 

they’ll all be willing you on to make a success of 

it, and they’ll also help on the days when you 

have second thoughts. Be prepared for these, as 

every business has them! 

Who’s on your side? 

Telling everyone will hopefully help you to begin to 

find people and businesses that will help you to 

get off to a flying start – from local builders who 

can recommend you as a specialist roofing 

contractor, to social media experts who can help 

you to run effective, low-cost marketing 

campaigns on platforms such as Facebook and 

LinkedIn to promote your business. 

When it comes to suppliers of materials, then of 

course there’s an SIG Roofing branch local to 

most places in the UK that can not only get you 

the right materials for the job, but can also 

support you in other ways with schemes such as 

Trade Club. 

Know who you’re up against 

The last point to make in this article is sizing up 

who you’ll be up against when competing for 

projects. You may already know a lot of the firms 

in your area, but making a detailed list will come 

in handy. Once you’ve narrowed down the list to 

the firms that you’ll most likely come up against 

when quoting for jobs, if possible, try to get an 

idea of how they quote. I’ve known of friends and 

family of a business owner inviting other trades 

around for quotes to get an idea of the price for a 

project, the timescale for getting a job done and 

the warranties on a job. 

Hopefully, this is a good starting point and 

provides you with plenty to think about if you 

want to set up your own business as a roofing 

contractor. In the coming editions of Total 

Contractor, we’ll cover a range of issues linked to 

the business side of contracting, from finding 

customers and taking on staff or subbies, to 

managing cash flow. 

If there’s anything else you’d like us to cover, then 

get in touch on Twitter at @SIGRoofing and 

remember to use #ContractTalk. 

Contact SIG Roofing 

0845 612 4304 

www.sigroofing.co.uk 

@SIGRoofing 


Project 

Derby Arena 

Contractor 

Keyclad 

Fixing 

SLS2 25-S16 

Specialist fixings for 

award winning arenas 

01242 265 100 

fixingpoint.com

Insurance Focus 

“A CHANGING BUSINESS REQUIRES 

CHANGING INSURANCE” 

By Paul Young, Underwriting Manager, ECIC, the specialist insurer for the contracting 

industry. 

Business diversification, encompassing a 

wider mix of disciplines, can be a great 

way for contractors to develop and grow 

their operation. For example, a roofing contractor 

may choose to extend their contract opportunities 

by broadening their skills base, working at 

different locations or embracing new 

technologies. But it’s important to 

remember that expansion and 

diversification also leads 

to a changing risk 

profile. And 

contractors are 

obliged to disclose 

those new and 

changing risks to their 

insurer or broker. 

The Insurance Act 2015, 

which came into force in August 

2016, has afforded contractors greater 

protection. However, in order to maximise these 

benefits, policyholders are under a duty to make 

‘a fair presentation of risk’ to their insurer. This 

includes disclosing every material circumstance 

they know and that they ought to know. 

“For most, if not all 

contractors, insurance 

cover can hardly be 

expected to be front of 

mind” 

In respect of business diversification this could 

include reviewing exposures and disclosure 

processes. It also means ensuring steps are in 

place to maintain up-to-date internal records of 

the names and roles of individuals responsible for 

arranging insurance cover, as well as members of 

senior management who should 

always be involved in any 

disclosures made. 

For smaller roofing contractors 

this can be reasonably straight 

forward. However, for mid to large 

sized businesses which have 

undergone a period of growth or 

those that have diversified 

into new skills and 

services, this can be 

much more complex. 

With diversification 

insurance risk 

changes, and the 

importance of declaring 

any significant changes in 

the types of contracts being 

undertaken or business growth to 

your insurer or broker should not be 

underestimated. In order to maintain insurance 

cover and ensure it keeps pace with the types of 

risk the business is exposed to, it is crucial that 

the correct and up to date information is 

disclosed at all times. 

Front of mind? 

For most, if not all contractors, insurance cover 

can hardly be expected to be front of mind, 

especially considering today’s challenging climate 

with the industry-wide skills shortage and ever 

growing concerns in the wake of the Carillion 

collapse. However, roofing contractors have an 

obligation to ensure all information known or 

ought to be known by them which could influence 

an insurer’s view of risk is declared. 

Roofing contractors should work with their insurer 

or broker to ensure all relevant information has 

been disclosed. This enables the 

insurer to prepare a 

comprehensive insurance 

contract or if needed, ask 

further questions based on the 

information provided. 

Taking time to understand the specifics 

of your insurance contract is key to ensuring 

you’re aware of any relevant restrictions, 

exclusions or terms and conditions with which 

you need to comply. This is where an insurance 

broker can have real value. 

An insurance broker deals with insurance 

contracts on a daily basis which means they are 

easily able to explain the contract specifics in 

great detail. An insurance broker can help roofing 

contractors understand the exact risk profile of their 

business and make certain that when committing to 

a period of growth, expanding into new areas of 

expertise or diversifying into new markets, the 

correct information is disclosed to the insurer. 

The roofing sector today comprises a wide mix of 

different disciplines creating plenty of scope for 

business diversification for those contractors 

keen to develop and grow their business. 

However, it’s crucial that roofing contractors take 

the time to understand the importance of 

declaring any business diversification and growth 

to their insurer or broker – there’s no such thing 

as too much information. And the more 

conversations you have with your insurer or 

insurance broker, the more confident you can be 

that your insurance cover keeps pace with 

business changes. 

Contact ECIC 

0330 221 0250 

www.ecic.co.uk 


QUICK, 

COST EFFECTIVE 

ROOF REPORTS 

A CLEARER 

VISION FOR 

YOUR BUSINESS 

When tendering for roofing contracts, accurate 

aerial measurement can be the difference between 

profit and loss. With EagleView, you can have 

complete confidence in the measurements you base 

your tender on. 

By combining multi-angle aerial images with 

advanced analytics, our reports provide precise area, 

pitch and length measurements. Colour coding 

distinguishes every detail, from ridges, hips and 

valleys to verges, eaves and flashings. 

Premium Report 

06/09/2017 

123 Main St., Tadworth, A1B2 C3D Report: 12345678 

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

Fast report turnaround saves you time. High 

resolution aerial views and 3D diagrams make your 

bid stand out. And accurate material ordering helps 

protect your profit. 

To see more, visit eagleview.co.uk 

or call 0800-069-8405 

Images .....................................................................1 

Length Diagram .........................................................4 

Pitch Diagram ............................................................5 

Area Diagram ............................................................6 

Notes Diagram...........................................................7 

Penetrations Diagram.................................................8 

Report Summary........................................................9 

MEASUREMENTS 

Total Roof Area =467.95 sq m 

Total Roof Facets =24 

Predominant Pitch =45° 

Number of Storeys >1 

Total Ridges/Hips =84.43 m 

Total Valleys =17.07 m 

Total Verges =14.63 m 

s =111.86 m

M25 

M25 

1. 

Measurements provided by www.eagleview.com 

www.eagleview.com/Guarantee.aspx 

© 2008-2017 Eagle View Technologies, Inc. and Pictometry International Corp. – All Rights Reserved – Covered by one or more of U.S. Patent Nos. 8,078,436; 8,145,578; 8,170,840; 8,209,152; 8,515,125; 8,825,454; 9,135,737; 8,670,961; 

9,514,568; 8,818,770; 8,542,880; 9,244,589; 9,329,749. Other Patents Pending. 


06/09/2017 

Report: 


Images .....................................................................1 


Pitch Diagram ............................................................5 

Area Diagram ............................................................6 

Notes Diagram.......................................................... 

...........................................................7 

Penetrations Diagram............................................... 

.................................................8 

Report Summary....................................................... 

........................................................9 

MEASUREMENTS 



Predominant Pitch =45° 


Total Ridges/Hips 

=84.43 m 



Total Eaves =111.86 m 

In this 3D model, facets appear as semi-transparent to reveal overhangs. 

Total Penetrations 

=14 

Total Penetrations Perimeter = 34.75 m 

Total Penetrations 

Area = 9.48 sq m 

321 King St. 

London, A1 B2C 

555-555-5555 

Measurements provided bywww.eagleview.com 

www.eagleview.com/Guarantee.aspx 

International Corp. – All Rights Reserved – Covered by one or more of U.S. Patent Nos. 8,078,436; 8,145,578; 

8,170,840; 8,209,152; 8,515,125; 8,825,454; 9,135,737; 8,670,961; 

9,514,568; 8,818,770; 8,542,880; 9,244,589; 9,329,749. Other Patents Pending. 

EAGLEVIEW IN FOCUS 

The hi-res imagery that’s 

re-engineering roofing 

By Kay Rose FIoR National Sales Director, EagleView. 

If you’re a roofing professional, imagine 

how much easier your job would be if 

you had a full overview of the roof even 

before visiting the site. 

Imagine if – with just a few clicks of 

your mouse – you could order a full roof 

measurement report that includes high-resolution 

images and precise dimensions 

of all the areas. Imagine being able to 

order materials without the worry of 

over- or under-ordering – no need to do 

a “guesstimate and 

add some” to cover 

yourself. 

EagleView ® makes 

all of this a reality. 

Established in the 

US in 2008 and 

launched in the UK 

in November 2017, 

the world’s first-ever 

remote aerial roof 

LONDON 

measurement service 

COVERAGE 

MAP 

creates 3D models that 

deliver highly accurate 

and detailed roof 

measurements. 

Proven 

technology 

PREMIUM ROOF REPORT PREPARATION 

HIGH RESOLUTION 

At its core lies the 

patented Pictometry ® 

technology which 

produces high-resolution 

imagery 

showing the fronts and sides of 

buildings. Pictometry imagery 

provides oblique perspectives 

from 40 to 45-degree angles as 

well as an overhead view. 

These images are then stored 

and, when an EagleView 

roofing report is requested, 

advanced algorithms and data 

analytics are used to translate 

them into a highly accurate 

model of the property in 

question. These models then 

enable detailed structural 

measurements to be derived – 

including eaves, flashing, hips, 

verges, ridges and valleys. The reports are 

produced quickly – in a matter of hours – 

and available in a variety of file formats. 

TOTAL LINE LENGTHS 

Ridges 30.48 m 

Hips 53.95 m 

Valleys 17.07 m 

Verges 14.63 m 

Reducing risk, saving time 

Conducting a manual roof survey involves 

time travelling to and from the site, 

getting safe access to the roof and taking 

measurements, and then further time to create 

precise dimensional drawings. By replacing 

this manual approach with an EagleView 

PremiumReport , that time is freed up for 

managing active contracts and pursuing new 

leads. And, not only does an EagleView 

11.1m 

4.6m 

8.6m 

8.6m 

4.6m 

2.8m 

1.8m 

1.8m 

1.8m 

5.5m 

3.2m 

5.5m 

3.4m 

5.3m 

5.9m 

2.8m 

8.2m 

3.9m 

2.8m 

1.8m 

3.1m 

6.2m 

6.6m 

3.0m 

6.6m 

6.2m 

9.8m 

7.1m 

6.3m 

1.0m 

3.8m 

7.1m 

4.9m 

6.2m 

5.6m 

7.0m 

6.2m 

18.6m 

4.9m 

5.0m 

2.0m 

MATERIALS CALCULATION 

10.1m 

ROOF DIAGRAMS 


06/09/2017 

123 Main St., Tadworth, A1B2 C3D Report: 12345678 

In this 3D model, facets appear as semi-transparent to reveal overhangs. 

PREPARED FOR 

Contact: 

Company: 

Exteriors Company 

Address: 

321 King St. 

London, A1 B2C 

Phone: 555-555-5555 


PremiumReport accelerate workflow, its 

accuracy greatly reduces the risk of costly 

material miscalculations. 

Wider impact 

Images .....................................................................1 


Pitch Diagram ............................................................5 

REPORT PREPARATION IN PROGRESS 

Area Diagram ............................................................6 

Notes Diagram...........................................................7 

Penetrations Diagram.................................................8 

Report Summary........................................................9 

TOTAL LINE LENGTHS 

Eaves 

111.86 

MEASUREMENTS 


Flashing 14.63 m 


Predominant Pitch =45° Step flash 26.21 m 


Total Ridges/Hips =84.43 m 

Parapets 38.10 m 



Total Eaves =111.86 m 

Total Penetrations =14 

Total Penetrations Perimeter = 34.75 m 

Total Penetrations Area = 9.48 sq m 

In the few years since EagleView was first 

established in the US, it has become the 

industry standard in aerial roof measurements. 

Roofing contractors throughout North 

America have quickly caught on to the 

resource and safety benefits, 

and increased number of 

contracts they win by using 

EagleView PremiumReports. 

Insurance companies and 

adjusters across the US have 

also embraced EagleView 

PremiumReports. In fact, 

following the wildfires that 

ravaged much of California 

during December 2017, 

EagleView captured and 

delivered high-resolution 

aerial images of the 

devastation in San Diego 

County so quickly that its 

insurance carrier partners 

were able to start viewing 

and responding to areas 

of severe need before the 

residents had even returned 

home. 

First in the UK 

The EagleView 

PremiumReport is a ground-breaking 

new offering, and there’s nothing else 

like it in the UK. It’s currently available 

for sites across London (within the 

M25), and Bristol and other major 

cities are following close behind. It’s 

a truly pioneering technology that 

stands to benefit anyone involved in 

the roofing industry. However, as with 

any successful technology, it’s the early 

adopters that will gain a competitive 

advantage. 

To find out more about EagleView 

Premium Reports go to eagleview.co.uk 

or call 0800 069 8405. 

CERTIFIED 

ACCURATE

Construction Ambassadors 

PERCEPTIONS AND ATTRACTING 

THE NEXT GENERATION 

Total Contractor talks to Sarah Spink, CEO of the LRWA, about her role as a Construction 

Ambassador and attracting youngsters into roofing. 

TC: What does your role as a Construction 

Ambassador involve? 

SS: Construction Ambassadors play a vital role in 

supporting and promoting careers in the 

construction industry. 

A Construction Ambassador is someone who 

inspires potential new entrants about the industry 

and is able to convey what it’s actually like to 

work in construction. Very often they provide the 

first introduction to the construction industry for 

many young individuals who are considering their 

future career choices. By reaching out to local 

communities and highlighting the many fantastic 

opportunities available within construction, they 

can help to inspire the next generation of new 

entrants at events such as careers fairs, provide 

mock interviews and presentations. 

TC: How did you get involved with this 

initiative? 

SS: I saw an advert for a construction 

ambassador’s course that was organised at 

Roofing House. It is something that I am 

passionate about so I signed up! 

TC: The experience you’ve built up 

throughout your career leading to your 

current position as CEO of the LRWA must 

be invaluable in the role as a Construction 

Ambassador; are there Ambassadors from 

all levels of the construction supply chain – 

“The main thing we 

need to do is enthuse 

and start the 

conversation about 

roofing” 

contractors, manufacturers, 

surveyors etc.? 

SS: On our course we had 

product suppliers, roofing 

contractors, operatives, and at 

the careers fair I attended recently, 

we had a training provider and large 

Main Contractor, Eric Wright. All you need to be 

able to do is talk to people of different ages – e.g 

teenagers and parents – about construction and 

the opportunities available. 

“It was always 

expected that you 

remain in education. 

Schools’ attitudes have 

changed for the better” 

TC: How do the schools respond to you 

approaching them to speak to the kids – 

over the years I’ve heard of some 

resistance to people from the roofing 

sector getting in to schools to speak to the 

children, the idea being that schools often 

have a vested interest in keeping kids in 

education – is this something you’ve ever 

experienced or heard of? 

SS: The schools actually request for a 

Construction Ambassador to attend one of their 

events and the invite gets sent to all the 

ambassadors in the area by Go Construct. The 

actual careers fair was then coordinated by the 

Lancashire chamber of commerce for the recent 

event I attended. 

I think things have changed massively since I 

was at school (mid-nineties), we never got a 

chance to speak to people from local companies 

about industry, it was always 

expected that you remain in 

education. Schools’ attitudes 

have changed for the better. 

TC: What age groups are 

you generally speaking to? 

SS: Those in year 9 who are taking options 

and year 11 school leavers. 

TC: What sort of the response do you get 

from the girls and boys? 

SS: I was amazed at how many girls were open 

minded and interested in talking to us! I think it 

helped that there were females on the stand for 

them to talk to. It was really great to see how 

many girls said that their favourite subjects were 

science and maths and that they would like to 

look at opportunities in construction. We talked a 

lot about the design side of construction with the 

girls. 

Many boys who came to the stand were more 

practical and wanted to see what opportunities 

were available, studying and earning whilst 

gaining practical skills being the most appealing 

option. There were also boys who were interested 

in IT and what opportunities were available, 

something that the industry needs to address 

moving forward and BIM / off site manufacturing 

may help. 

Many parents were interested in the 

apprenticeships available now, including higher 

level apprenticeships and looking at alternative 

career paths to university. 

In all cases the Go Construct personality quiz and 

roles in construction info were used to try to get 

across the message that there are many areas of 

construction that you can go into. 


YOU MAY NOT NOTICE ALL THE 

IMPROVEMENTS TO RAPID DRYVERGE 

WHEN IT’S UP ON THE ROOF SO WE’VE 

PUT THEM BELOW 

• Improved interlocking design for added strength • New drainage channels to prevent streaking 

• Improved aesthetics for cleaner, straighter lines on the roof 

• 4 fi xing points for greater vertical and horizontal wind-loading resistance 

• Performance meets BS 8612 

Completely re-engineered using High Impact PolyStyrene, our new Rapid DryVerge comes 

in two designs – to complement large format and thin leading edge tiles – and three 

colours: Charcoal Grey, Slate Grey, and Rust. There’s one thing you should notice on the 

roof – it’s even easier to fi t. Perhaps we should’ve called it Even More Rapid DryVerge. 

Look up more at Redland.co.uk 

Part of BMI GROUP 

YOU’RE BETTER COVERED

Construction Ambassadors 

TC: Are the children perhaps shocked and 

excited by the variety of options and 

different roles open to them that they 

perhaps didn’t know about? 

SS: They’re amazed, I think a lot of people 

literally think that you have to work outside on 

site to be in construction. 

TC: When I was at school, the idea of a 

career working with my hands, being part of 

building something was quite exciting and 

appealed to a number of my class mates 

who went on to forge successful careers in 

the construction sector; but with reality TV, 

social media and the digital environment 

children grow up with today, do you think 

the perceived career of working outdoors in 

all weathers on construction sites puts too 

many children off? 

SS: Yes, I do believe that it can put off a lot of 

kids, which is why we need the message to get 

out there that construction can offer a variety of 

roles because the skills shortage is across the 

industry. We need good technical people, 

estimators, etc. 

Come what may we need a variety of skills for the 

industry to thrive, we need to appeal to a broader 

audience. 

Interestingly, one of the busiest stands at the 

recent event I attended had a bricklaying 

competition. This was very heartening. 

TC: Do you think some parents need 

educating about the benefits a career in 

roofing / construction could offer their 

children? Is there still may be a bit of 

misplaced snobbery on behalf of some 

parents? 

SS: I think that there could be. The parents I have 

spoken to have all been pretty open minded, but 

what about the ones I didn’t speak to? It was 

great to speak to a teacher who was attending 

with her son who said that due to tuition fees now 

she would think twice about going to university, 

and she was impressed by the many 

opportunities there were to get into construction 

and progress a career path with minimal debt. In 

that instance I think it did help to have a large 

local main contractor talking about career 

progression within Eric Wright. 

TC: The Construction Ambassador 

initiative seems like a great tool to help 

change the outdated perceptions of a 

career in roofing – are we winning the 

battle to present roofing as viable option 

for school leavers? 

SS: Not yet. I believe that we are at the start and 

that every roofing contractor, main contractor, and 

manufacturer should be getting involved with 

their local schools via the Construction 

Ambassador programme to talk to kids about 

construction. Very few of us at that age had a full 

picture of the opportunities available. 

This is also an easy way to find apprentices, 

because many of the kids we spoke to were 

interested in current job opportunities. We 

directed them to the Government apprenticeship 

website (https://www.gov.uk/applyapprenticeship) 

where they are all listed. 

TC: Those that work in the roofing sector 

are well aware of the brilliant work and 

fantastic opportunities a career in this 

industry can offer. Do we perhaps have to 

get better at letting those on the outside 

know more about it? If so, how can we do 

this? 

SS: Yes we do. Go Construct is the best way of 

doing it and getting all areas of roofing involved in 

their local community. Many people start in the 

manufacturer’s side of construction and then go 

into roof contracting and vice versa. I have known 

people start as building surveyors and move into 

roof contracting or working for manufacturers. I 

started as a marketer at a large manufacturer 

with a post graduate qualification in international 

marketing, then went into a technical product role 

and now run a trade association in roofing. I fell 

into roofing, but I truly love it. 

The main thing we need to do is enthuse and 

start the conversation about roofing and how 

amazing the industry is. 

TC: If any of our readers are interested in 

becoming a Construction Ambassador, 

how do they go about this? 

SS: Apply online at www.goconstruct.org or watch 

out for industry training events that are being 

organised. A course was organised before the 

recent Women In Roofing Conference which was 

well attended. 

In my role for LRWA, I will be promoting this as 

well to members. 

The route for children leaving school can often be confusing, but the more that consider a career in roofing, the better 

Contact the LRWA 

0207 448 3859 

www.lrwa.org.uk 

@LRWAssociation 


Go Further with SupaLite 

SupaLite design & 

manufacture more 

than just roofs? 

It’s true, we are the market leader in lightweight replacement 

conservatory roofs, but we are experts in much more. 

Our revolutionary FLAT ROOF ORANGERY is installed within 

hours with amazing thermal properties. Our LANTERNS are the 

most stylish available, and our VERANDAS are proving to be a 

very popular and extremely flexible choice. 

U-Value 

as low as 

0.15 

W/m 2 K 

SupaLite Tiled Roofs 

Flat Roof Orangeries 

Modular 

Design 

Lanterns 

Elegant Verandas 

Every SupaLite product 

is precision made to 

ensure a perfect fit for 

any configuration. 

BUILDING CONTROL 

SupaLite will optionally facilitate building control on your behalf 

ENERGY EFFICIENT 

Designed for ultimate performance 

TRIED & TESTED 

10 year guarantee as standard 

01772 82 80 60 

www.supaliteroof.co.uk

Training Focus 

SKILLED-UP ROOFERS 

Philip Fergusson, Managing Director of National Construction Training Services (NCTS), 

looks at workmanship in the roofing trade and the importance of education in proper 

installation techniques specific to the roof being installed. 

he causes of roof failure are as varied as 

they are destructive – everything from wind 

uplift damage to inappropriate design, 

faulty materials to poor flashing details – but one 

thing is for certain, if a roof is to withstand the 

worst of the UK weather in the ensuing years, 

then the quality of workmanship is absolutely 

vital for the long-term performance of any new 

roofing system. 

In a marketplace filled with a wide array of types 

and styles of roofing, whichever solution is 

specified needs to look good both at the time of 

installation and for years to come. While the 

chosen material plays a huge part in the longevity 

of a roof, so do the skills and training of the roofer 

to ensure it is installed to the highest standards 

expected within the construction industry. 

A place in history 

They have been a feature of British homes since 

the early 1800s, but the distinctive red finish of 

clay tiles has ensured its place as a roofing 

stalwart. Slate is also steeped in history, and is 

favoured as the solution of choice for many roofs 

across the country due to its class and elegance. 

Like clay, slate is a traditional product that can be 

costly but it should always be sorted, graded and 

installed by experienced contractors. 

One of the most common materials used to 

manufacture tiles in the UK, concrete is often the 

solution of choice for many when it comes to 

roofing as it is low maintenance, long-lasting and 

affordable. While concrete tiles offer considerable 

benefits, they are also heavy, breakable and 

prone to weathering. 

When it comes to training in the application of 

clay, slate and concrete tiles, the Roof Slate & Tile 

NVQ Level 2 offers the opportunity to qualify 

experienced staff through the On Site Assessment 

and Training (OSAT) programme. 

In addition, a Specialist 

Apprenticeship 

Programme (SAP) 

combines block 

training and on-site 

training with an 

employer to 

demonstrate the 

practical and theory 

skills to installing slate 

and tiles to a high standard. 

“Skills and training 

are vital for anyone 

wanting to stay ahead 

of the game – the 

quality of a roofing 

system is only as good 

as the installation” 

The world of metal 

Traditional hard metals including copper, zinc, 

stainless steel and aluminium offer exceptional 

longevity and are lightweight compared to tiles. 

Lead is a softer metal that has also been used 

over the centuries, and can still be seen today in 

good condition on many heritage sites. 

NVQ2 and NVQ3 in Traditional Metal Roofing and 

the FTMRC (Federation of Traditional Metal 

Roofing Contractors) Craft Development Courses, 

all provide modules which educate and instil best 

practice in the installation of these traditional 

hard metals for roof sheeting and cladding. 

Flat out 

A flat roof offers design versatility, affordability, 

flexibility and a number of options in terms of 

roofing materials including felt, 

asphalt, single ply and liquid. 

Extremely durable and 

designed to survive the 

elements, the 

application of a flat 

roofing system is 

complex but achievable 

with the appropriate 

training, experience and 

safety precautions. 

Training for an NVQ level 2 for flat 

roofs includes demonstrating skills relating 

to installing built-up bituminous roof coverings, 

repairs and maintenance. 

Roofs are in the frontline every day, and while it’s 

important that a roofing material can withstand 

anything that Mother Nature throws at it, the 

lifespan of the roof will be shortened if it’s poorly 

installed in the first place. Skills and training are 

vital for anyone wanting to stay ahead of the 

game. After all, the quality of a roofing system is 

only as good as the quality of its installation. 

About NCTS 

NCTS is a provider of training for the roofing 

industry. We are dedicated to ensuring an 

outstanding level of training across the many 

roofing disciplines in metal, flat and pitched 

roofing. Working with roofing federations, roofing 

training groups, manufacturers and employers 

from across the industry, we can offer a variety of 

comprehensive training courses designed to fit 

with your needs, no matter your level of skill. 

Contact NCTS 

01480 501011 

www.ncts.org.uk 

@NCTS_2017 


LEVATO MONO 

Porcelain paver system 

and coordinating internal tiling 

The Deck Tile Co’s new website www.surface360.co.uk now has +150 colours and 

finishes in their Levato Mono 20mm porcelain ranges plus co-ordinating internal tiling – 

enabling seamless visual transition between internal and external spaces. 

20mm porcelain pavers 40x80 45x90 60x60 75x75 80x80 30x120 

40x120 60x120 

‘Floating floor’ – installation over single ply membranes 

Eternal product - zero maintenance required – offering massive overlife 

savings 

Highly abrasion and stain resistant 

Highly slip resistant ; R11 AB+C 

Lightweight – 45kgs per m 2 

High load bearing and impact resistance 

Timber, stone & cementitious effects 

Completely non porous 

Ideal for balconies, roof terraces and piazzas, for both commercial and 

residential use 

Frost proof 

Height adjustable/slope correcting support system ranging from 9mm 

up to 550mm 

INTRODUCING OUR NEW WEBSITE: 

WWW.SURFACE360.CO.UK

UK Roofing Awards 2018 

IT’S ALMOST AWARDS SEASON... 

With the UK Roofing Awards – sponsored by SIG Roofing – just around the corner, 

Total Contractor takes a look at which projects have been shortlisted as finalists... 

The finalists for the 2018 UK Roofing 

Awards have been announced, with the 

judges bringing together a shortlist of 

projects which they say incorporates “beautiful 

structures, outstanding workmanship, superior 

problem solving, environmental qualities plus 

provide a positive contribution to the built 

environment.” 

The shortlisted projects in each category are: 

Small Scale Project (Under £25k): 

•The Little Chapel – Polyroof working with Sarnian 

Roofing 

•Richmond Road – Longworth Building Services 

•Rose Cottage – Polyroof working with Cure Roofing 

•Imagine, 126 Panorama Road – Eclipse Roofing & 

Waterproofing 

Large Scale Project (Over £250k): 

•NHS Dumfries & Galloway Royal Infirmary – 

Longworth Building Services 

•55 Colmore Row – NRA Roofing and Flooring 

Services 

•New Bracken House – Partnering Contractors 

Roofing 

•Urmston Grammar School – Allied Roofing & 

Construction 

Innovation Award – Sponsored by 

EagleView: 

•Lloyd BMW car park – BriggsAmasco 

•Clapham Park – Bauder working with E J 

Roberts Roofing 

•Oat Errish Farm – DANOSA UK working with 

County Flat Roofing UK 

•Dylon Works – Axter with Tilbury Contracts 

Reinforced Bitumen Membranes: 

•Highgate Wood School – IKO PLC working with 

Russell Trew 

•MTV Studios – M&J Group 

•Girdlestone Estate – Langley Waterproofing 

Systems working with Opus Waterproofing 

Solutions 

•Lacy House – Richard Soan Roofing Services 

Liquid Applied Waterproofing & Hot-Melt: 

•The Little Chapel – Polyroof working with 

Sarnian Roofing 

•Lancaster University Chaplaincy – Sika Liquid 

Plastics working with Permicoat 

•Rochdale Exchange Car Park – Everlast Group 

•Bloomberg London – Prater working with 

Radmat Building Products 

Mastic Asphalt: 

•St Paul’s Cathedral – IKO PLC working with 

Sussex Asphalte 

•Bodiam Castle – North West Tower – Sussex 

Asphalte 

•Hurst Castle – IKO PLC working with Infallible 

Systems 

•New Covent Garden Market – BriggsAmasco 

Fully Supported Metal: 

•Royal Victoria Pavilion – Full Metal Jacket 

•The Bund – Longworth Building Services 

•NHS Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary – 

Longworth Building Services 

•Lawn Tennis Association – Richardson Roofing 

Sheeting & Cladding / Rainscreen: 

•Liverpool Life Sciences Accelerator - Longworth 

Building Services 

•Fenwick Bracknell – Prater working with Bailey 

Total Building Envelope 

•Furness General Hospital Maternity Unit – MAC 

Roofing & Contracting 

•Hungerford Fire Station – Malone Roofing 

(Newbury) 

Lead Roofing – Sponsored by Chandlers 

Roofing Supplies: 

•British Museum – Islamic Galleries – Full Metal 

Jacket 

•55 Colmore Row – NRA Roofing and Flooring 

Services 

•Lawrence Sheriff School Clifton – NRA Roofing 

and Flooring Services 

•Canterbury Cathedral – The Old Library – 

Clarke Roofing Southern 

Heritage Roofing – Sponsored by Klober: 

•The Retreat – Geoff Neal (Roofing) 

•Tredegar House – Ellis and Company 

(Restoration and Building) 


•LLwyn Celyn – Rowlands Roofing 

•St Peters Hamsey – Clarke Roofing Southern 

Green Roofing: 

•Clapham Park – Bauder working with E J 

Roberts Roofing 

•Fjordhus – Isle of Harris – Bridgman and 

Bridgman LLP 

•The World War II Decoy Bunker – Alumasc 

Roofing Systems working with Span Roofing 

Contractors 

•Chester Bus Station – Alumasc Roofing 

Systems working with Blackdown Greenroofs 

Single Ply Roofing: 

•Royal Russell School – DANOSA UK working 

with Industrial Construction (Sussex) 

•Alderley Edge School for Girls – Gymnasium – 

Richmond Roofing Single Ply 

•Scoil Phadraig – Bauder working with Priority 

Roofing & Cladding 

•Hawthorns Care Home – Ithaca Roofing 

Roof Slating: 

•Marshals Yard Development – Claude N Smith 

•Sion Cottage Marford – Greenough & Sons 

Roofing Contractors 

•Grade II* Listed Building – Anderson Roofing 

Services 

•The Boathouse – Stormforce Roofing & 

Maintenance 

Roof Tiling – Sponsored by ECIC: 

•Shettleston New Parish Church – Redland 

working with DM Roofing and Roughcasting 

•Donisthorpe Primary School – M&J Group 

James Talman, Chief Executive of the NFRC, explained: “This year the 

standard of entries was exceptional and the judges had a very hard time 

whittling it down to create this spectacular shortlist. 

“Our congratulations go to each and every one of those finalists who 

should be proud of their achievement. We have some extremely talented, 

dedicated and ambitious roofing professionals in the UK, and this goes 

some way towards highlighting their achievements and showcasing best 

practice and quality in the sector. 

“We would like to wish everyone the very best of luck for the finals.” 

The National Federation of Roofing 

Contractors (NFRC), the host of the awards, 

has teamed up with headline sponsor SIG 

Roofing to celebrate all the good things that 

roofing contractors do to help their local 

communities and charities. 

Janine Brady, SIG Roofing’s Marketing Manager, 

said that the UK Roofing Awards excel when it 

comes to showcasing projects that genuinely 

demonstrate the very best of roofing, including 

elements such as aesthetics, problem-solving, 

health and safety, workmanship and 

environmental standards. 

However, she believes there is an opportunity to 

recognise some of the great achievements of the 

roofing community that often go unheard. 

“As the leading specialist supplier of roofing and 

services, the staff in our branches get to hear 

about some of the fantastic things that their 

roofing contractor customers get up to that so 

often get overlooked,” explained Janine. 

James Talman, CEO of 

the NFRC 

DO YOU KNOW AN 

‘UNSUNG HERO?’ 

something we really want to help draw attention 

to and celebrate. And what better place to do it 

than at the UK Roofing Awards, one of the 

pinnacles of the roofing year? 

“The Local Hero Award will bring an extra 

dimension to the awards and will allow us to 

showcase both the excellent standards of roofing 

projects completed each year and the way roofers 

work so hard to help those in need.” 

Amanda Brackey, Head of Marketing and 

Communications at the NFRC, commented: “It’s 

important that the UK Roofing Awards continually 

evolve to reflect the achievements of the industry, 

and a key part of that is listening to our partners, 

who have some great ideas to continue making 

the awards relevant to our sector. 

“SIG Roofing has been the headline sponsor for 

more than ten years and it’s a testament to their 

commitment and the roofing community working 

together that these awards keep going from 

strength to strength.” 

•Gorse Hill Infants & Junior School – Davis 

Roofing 

•Fair Mile Chapel – Bracknell Roofing. 

The winners will be announced at a gala awards 

luncheon – hosted by Dan Walker – on Friday 

11th May 2018 at the Park Plaza Westminster 

Bridge Hotel. 

“They hear about contractors raising money for 

charities and other good causes, about those who 

give up their spare time to work on community 

projects or to help young people and those in 

need. 

“There are a lot of excellent people working in 

roofing that do a lot of good things and that is 

To nominate a local hero visit: 

www.sigroofing.co.uk/local-hero. The closing date 

for nominations is April 20th. 

Find out more about the UK Roofing Awards 2018 

www.nfrc.co.uk/uk-roofing-awards/ 

@UKRoofingAwards 


Dormer Windows 

GET YOUR DORMER DETAILS RIGHT 

The Technical Team at Marley Eternit explain how to get the key details for valleys and side 

abutments correct and ensure your dormer window installation is right first time. 

Dormer windows are becoming increasingly 

popular as a way of increasing usable 

space in the loft, as well as to create 

more visually interesting roof designs. There are 

many different types of dormer, ranging from the 

most common gable fronted, through to hip 

dormers and the more specialist eyebrow dormer. 

For roofing contractors, each dormer will require 

its own particular detailing, depending on roofing 

material, location and how it is framed. However, 

most dormers will include common roof details 

such as valleys, side abutments, eaves, ridges or 

cloak verges. 

Here, we focus specifically on design details for 

valleys and side abutments, using clay plain tiles 

as an example. 

Valleys 

Most dormers create valleys on either side; this 

means a higher volume of water runs through 

them as they are collecting the rainwater from the 

two roof slopes. Therefore flashing and 

weathering is very important. 

The following design steps should be followed: 

1 - The width of an open valley trough should be 

determined in accordance with BS 5534, which 

takes into account the volume of rainwater at 

specified flow rates draining from plan areas and 

roof pitches. 

2 - When designing the valley construction, it is 

important to set the timber boards for valley 

linings and troughs on noggings between the 

rafters, so that the face is flush with the top of 

the adjacent rafters. 

3 - The width of the boards needs to be wider than 

the determined valley width, to accommodate the 

ends of the slating or tiling battens and any tilting 

fillets used for metal valley linings. 

Below: Detailing – Curved clay valleys 

265 x 165mm 

Marley Eternit Clay Plain Tile 

H60/120 

Marley Eternit Curved Valley Tiles 

H60/630 

Tiling Batten 

H60/245 

Underlay batten 

H60/240 

Timber valley board, 4mm ply lining 

H71/630 

G20/311/770 

4 - Valleys for clay plain tile dormers can be 

created using lead, a GRP dry valley system or 

purpose made clay valley tiles (for pitches 30-50 

degrees) – see detailing diagrams above. 

Side abutments 

Some dormer windows will also feature side 

abutments. An abutment occurs where the edge 

of the roof slope meets a wall that rises above it. 

Normally, on a side abutment, this is at right 

angles to the eaves or ridge. 

1 - It is best practice to ensure that rainwater 

runs away from a side abutment, but where this 

is not possible, an inclined valley should be 

created which is designed to cater for the water 

flow. These should be formed with a suitable 

flashing, usually lead soakers, which can provide 

the required weather protection and accommodate 

any thermal movement that may occur. 

2 - Cavity trays and dpcs in the masonry wall 

should be designed so that they allow any 

flashings to be inserted below them, thereby 

maintaining their weatherproofing function. 

3 - Side abutments using flat tiles and slates are 

particularly vulnerable to wind driven rain, and 

should therefore be designed with secret gutters 

and / or soakers and cover flashings, which 

provide suitable protection. 

Further design detailing for ridges, eaves and 

cloak verges is available at 

www.marleyeternit.co.uk 

Below: Detailing – GRP Valley 

265 x 165mm 


H60/120 

265 x 248mm 

Marley Eternit Clay Plain Tile-anda-half 

tile. H60/120 

Tile-and-a-half-tile cut to angle 

of the valley 

Tiling batten. H60/245 

Underlay 

G20/311/770 

Marley Eternit GRP dry valley 

trough, low profile. Code 

30422). H65/606 

Timber valley board, 4mm ply lining 

H71/606 

G20/311/770 

Below: Design detailing – side abutment with clay plain tiles 

265 x 165mm 


H60/120 

Code 4 stepped lead cover flashing 

H71/310 

Code 3 lead soakers 

Tiling batten. H60/245 

265 x 248mm 

Marley Eternit Clay Plain Tile & Half Tile 

Underlay. H60/240 

General advice on tiling dormers 

When it comes to flashing and weathering, tiled 

dormer roofs should be treated in a similar way to 

the main roof work. However, single lap tiling is 

less suitable for small covered areas and for a 

dormer, it is generally preferable to adopt an 

alternative form of covering. 

If dormer cheeks are tile hung, close cut vertical 

tiles to rake of roof over a flashing fixed to side of 

dormer and dress well into the adjacent tiles. 

A special note on eyebrow dormers 

Eyebrow dormers feature a curved roof and 

usually require highly skilled roofing expertise. As 

the tiles often reduce in pitch, they sometimes 

need a functional sub roof with the tiles just used 

for aesthetic purposes. 

With this type of dormer, the transition between 

eyebrow and the rest of the roof should be 

regarded as a valley and precautions should be 

taken (see above) to prevent water leaks. 

Contact Marley Eternit’s Technical Team 

01283 722588 

www.marleyeternit.co.uk 

@MarleyEternit 


Whatever your flat roofing requirement, 

you will be safe in the knowledge that a 

RubberBond FleeceBack installation will 

provide you with the highest quality, 

long term flat roofing solution. 

n Strength of FleeceBack Single Ply EPDM 

n Speed of Factory Applied Tape 

n Clean - No mixing of chemicals or liquids 

n Versatile - Install on new build or 

refurbishment projects 

n Smooth, slate grey finish 

n Simple application - No heat or welding 

Contact us for: 

Contractor training or to 

request your sample pack. 

Tel: 01494 448792 

Email: enq@flex-r.co.uk 

Flat Roofing Solutions

Slate Roofing 

FROM QUARRY TO SITE INSTALL 

Natural slate has a rigorous production process to ensure the high quality and beautiful 

product that we see on many different roofs all over the world. Here, Julian Gomez, Director 

of Marketing at CUPA PIZARRAS, explains each factor involved in producing and delivering 

the versatile material, plus offers some top tips to roofing contractors installing the product. 

Initially, the process begins with the deposit 

phase. This is the exploitation process that 

begins once the geological, mineral and 

geotechnical surveys have been completed. 

Alongside this, critical prospection work and 

sample testing also take place to determine the 

precise quality of the slate and the potential 

reserves of the deposit. 

There are two exploitation systems, which are 

open quarries and underground mines. Frequent 

tests are carried out during the life of the 

exploitation and always have the intent to prepare 

for the future of the quarry or mine. This helps to 

guarantee an ongoing supply of the highest 

quality slate. 

The second stage is the extraction procedure, 

which begins after completing the disassembly 

operations. The natural slate is then extracted in 

large blocks that are cut with a diamond blade. 

The blocks are then taken to the processing plant 

where water is used as a coolant and base 

material for removing rubble. This highlights the 

environmentally friendliness of the product, as 

the water used for this is then recycled and 

purified to prevent it from being wasted. 

Next is the processing phase – this aspect is 

crucial, and the slate goes through three stages in 

this part of the process prior to being packaged. 

This includes sawing, to cut the slate from the 

large blocks to the correct size, and shaping, 

which involves cutting the blocks by hand into 

sheets. Water issued here ensures blocks do not 

dry out. Lastly, each slate corner is bevelled to 

facilitate the passage of water over the slate once 

in place on the roof. 

The final stage at the CUPA PIZARRAS warehouse 

in Spain is the packaging stage, where 

all the slates are placed on wooden 

pallets for delivery after being 

counted and packaged up 

securely. Each pallet will have a 

label that displays every precise 

detail about the slate being sent, 

including the quarry it originated from, 

slate format and the results of trials performed on 

the product. This is a unique personalised process 

for the customer, and the tracking barcodes on 

packages can also ensure a quick and safe delivery. 

Full traceability 

Roofing contractors should be aware of the 

importance of traceability. In the case of CUPA 

PIZARRAS for example, there are no label changes 

and the slate is never rebranded by importers. 

Thus, when the roofer chooses the slate he 

wants, he receives this exact slate. In 

comparison, other brands sometimes offer 

products dependent on availability, meaning that 

the roofer is ‘blind’ to what they receive. The 

feature of full traceability ensures that if a roof 

needs to be replaced or fixed in the future, the 

exact slate that was used can be used again by 

tracing back the order. 

Sorting 

When slate pallets arrive on site, the slates 

should be sorted into their different levels of 

thickness, and roofing contractors should note 

that the slates are laid on the long side with 

battens between the layers. Safety and quality 

control must also be carried out through a range 

of tests such as checking for any imperfections 

and tapping each slate to examine and establish 

overall soundness and depth. 

Julian Gomez, Director of Marketing at 

CUPA PIZARRAS 

Fixing 

The installation can finally start 

after all slates have been 

securely and properly tested. The 

two methods of nailing and hook 

fixing are the most common and are 

preferred by many roofing contractors, but it is 

always important to have a good understanding of 

them both. For the nailing technique, CUPA 

PIZARRAS can supply slates pre-holed for 

convenience. 

Installation can start once all slates have been securely and 

properly tested 

The journey that slate undertakes from quarry to 

roof is an extensive and detailed one, but this 

ensures that the highest quality product is 

created from the deposit, exploitation, extraction 

and processing phases. On the construction site, 

the roofing contractors need to be thorough with 

quality control, and then the installation can be 

equally as sound. Despite the amount of work 

involved here, all of these aspects are carried out 

at no harm to the environment, which is an 

advantage to all involved. 

Contact CUPA PIZARRAS 

01312 253 111 

www.cupapizarras.com/uk 

@CUPAPIZARRAS_en 


Standard 

CitiDeck 

AntiSlipPlus 

Take FireSafeit as Red 

Red 

Fully Graded Roofing Battens 

The new British Standard for the design, materials, application, installation and performance of slates, 

tiles, shingles and shakes is clear: roofing battens must be graded to BS 5534. 

This means that battens delivered to site should be graded and marked in accordance with the new 

standard and have supporting documentation. 

There’s no grey area on BS 5534, so take it as Red that roofing battens from Marley Eternit are 

fully compliant. 

For more information or to request a brochure: 

Call 01283 722588 or visit marleyeternit.co.uk/timber

An Inspector Calls 

STORAGE OF MATERIALS ON SITE 

In a new, regular monthly column – ‘An Inspector Calls’ – Total Contractor has teamed up 

with the experts at Icopal to help you achieve roofing success and avoid the common pitfalls 

that can often cost you both time and money. 

This month the Inspector takes a look at 

the issue of incorrect material storage: 

Incorrect storage of materials is a common issue 

in the industry and it can have a negative impact 

on a project’s success from both short and long 

term perspectives. Materials are often delivered to 

a project in its early stages and it is therefore 

essential that they are stored in the correct manner 

to ensure they perform to their maximum potential, 

and to achieve trouble-free installation. 

Storage on sites can be limited and storage space 

may come at a premium. However, it is 

paramount to the project’s success that 

materials are at least stored correctly. Arguably 

the most important issue is keeping them dry. 

Although many products are used for building 

protection, some cannot fulfill this role until they 

are actually installed. Simply because a product is 

considered ‘waterproof’ does not necessarily mean 

it is suitable to be left exposed to the elements 

prior to its application without any consequence. 

Many materials have natural waterproofing 

properties but they may still have the ability to 

absorb or retain moisture prior to being installed. 

This can then become a problem if the moisture 

becomes trapped within the system following the 

product’s application. Trapped moisture within a 

membrane can lead to a number of issues such as 

blistering, lap breaches and insufficient bond 

strengths. 

Additionally, some products, such as insulation, 

“Just remember, 

correct storage is the 

first step to success” 

will become unusable should 

they be exposed to moisture 

(see pic, right). This will 

reduce the product’s ability 

to perform as intended from 

a thermal perspective and the 

material will retain this moisture, 

again trapping it within the newly 

installed waterproofing system. Although 

insulation, along with a number of other products, 

may be supplied in shrink-wrap, this is not a 

reliable protection method when delivered to site. 

Shrink-wrapping is only used to protect the 

materials in transit, and the safe and correct 

storage of materials, once it reaches its 

destination, lies solely with the contractor. 

“Wet insulation should 

be disposed of 

immediately and 

should not in any 

circumstances be used 

on a project” 

Wet insulation should be disposed of immediately 

and should not in any circumstances be used on 

a project. With the increase of insulation material 

costs across the industry, it is in everybody’s 

interest to ensure the product is kept dry and stored 

correctly. The last thing any contractor wants is to 

incur additional costs in replacement materials. 

Moisture retention in membranes may not be 

visible to the naked eye, so it’s difficult to tell if 

the product has retained any moisture during its 

exposure. The product may well be installed with 

no sign of compromise. However, defects could 

become evident months after installation as the 

trapped moisture expands and 

contracts through UV 

exposure and temperature 

variation. This can lead to 

blistering and the resulting 

pressure could affect the 

integrity of the membrane’s side 

and head laps. The project could then 

suffer aesthetically and the contractor could suffer 

financially having to carry out repairs, something 

that could have been avoided had the materials 

been stored correctly at the start. 

It is also important that materials are stored at 

the correct temperature and out of direct sunlight. 

For example, some bitumen-based products can 

soften if left exposed to UV and left out in high 

temperatures, so they should be sheltered from 

heat and potential solar gain. In contrast, some 

products, such as cold applied liquids, must be 

stored above certain temperatures to ensure they 

can be installed without any compromise to their 

performance. 

Product literature and labelling will always give 

recommended storage guidance. 

Ideally, all products should be safely stored in a 

container or at least in a dry and cool place. 

When space is unavailable, the minimum 

requirement would be to store the materials off 

the ground and covered with a suitable temporary 

protection measure such as a tarpaulin or similar. 

Just remember, correct storage is the first step to 

success. 

Contact Icopal’s Technical Team 

0161 865 4444 

www.icopal.co.uk 

@Icopal_UK 


HIGH PERFORMANCE LIQUID 

WATERPROOFING SYSTEM 

BENEFITS & PRODUCT 

INFORMATION 

BBA certified for life in excess of 25 years. 

NHBC and Green Roof Approval. 

ULTRAFLEX can be used on new or existing 

roofs, walkways, balconies, gutters etc. 

Ready to use straight out of the tin, application 

with solvent resistant roller. 

Use fully reinforced with ULTRAFLEX matting 

ensures easy ‘wet on wet’ application. 

Can be used all year round – moisture curing. 

Fully trafficable when cured. 

Instantly rain resistant after application. 

Once installed, forms a seamless membrane. 

Exellent adhesion to different substrates: plywood, 

bitumen membranes, asphalt, metals, 

brick, concrete, wood etc. 

Fresh concrete must be cured for 28 days. 

On EPDM and TPO it is recommended to install 

patch test to check compatibility. 

Do not use silicone sealants. Always use PU 

based mastics.

Single-Ply Systems 

A GUIDE TO CORRECT INSTALLATION 

By Steve Hatcher, Field Technician at Sika 

When considering single-ply membranes 

for a roofing application, many things 

need to be taken into account: is the 

roof an exposed application? Is it a ballasted or 

green roof? Is it heavily trafficked or even a 

situation where the aesthetics are the most 

important factor? Choosing the right membrane 

and roofing system for the right application is the 

first most important step. Within Sika-Trocal there 

are different membrane types to suit all of these 

applications, but it is important to choose the 

right one as the substrate can also determine the 

type of roof system. 

Secondly, you can become a Sika-Trocal licensed 

contractor once you have trained at our academy. 

Sign-off inspections take place on site before 

guarantees are issued, reassuring clients that the 

products are being installed correctly and by 

trained contractors. 

Watertight at once 

Once on site, the first step for the roofing 

contractor is to install the VCL. This is primarily 

installed to restrict the amount of moisture 

“Nothing should be 

taken for granted when 

it comes to their 

installation in order to 

guarantee long-term 

performance” 

vapour being transmitted into the roof 

construction from inside the building. Depending 

on the type of system used, this may be a looselaid 

VCL or a fully-adhered VCL. It might be that a 

fully-adhered vapour barrier such as Sika Trocal’s 

SVap 5000E may be installed in order to make the 

building watertight as quickly as possible so that 

work can commence internally. 

Whichever type is used, it is important that it is 

fully-sealed at all laps, perimeters and 

penetrations before the insulation is installed to 

ensure it also acts as an appropriate air barrier 

Next is the insulation. This can either be a flat 

insulation board or a tapered system and will 

have different methods of attachment. BS 6229 – 

flat roofs with continuously supported coverings – 

is the head code for the design of roofs and 

states all roof falls should be designed to achieve 

a minimum finished fall of 1:80. This can either 

be in the roof construction or within the 

insulation. The thickness of the insulation will 

depend on the results of the thermal calculations 

carried out on the building and will need to 

achieve the necessary U-value, as required by 

Building Regulations. This is used to limit the 

amount of heat loss from the building and reduce 

carbon emissions. Compatibility with the roofing 

system also needs to be considered, with some 

insulation being designed for mechanical 

fastening systems, and others for adhered 

applications. Insulation requiring mechanical 

fastening will most likely now use thermallybroken 

fasteners in order to reduce the amount of 

cold bridging caused by the fasteners, thus 

reducing the thickness of insulation required. 

Select for success 

Choosing the correct single-ply membrane also 

depends on a number of factors. A mechanicallyfastened 

system may be used on a large roof area 

for speed of installation, such as the Sika-Trocal 

Type ‘S’ system, where fasteners restrain both the 

membrane and the insulation in a single fix. If an 

application has a concrete substrate then an 

adhered membrane such as Sika-Trocal Type SGK 

could be used to limit the amount of mechanical 

fastening into the concrete. It may be a feature 

roof such as a barrel-style roof, again where 

adhered Sika-Trocal type SGK could be used 

where the aesthetics of the roofing system are 

very important. Ballasted or green roofs – as 

stated – have their own dedicated membrane in 

the Sika range with Sika-Trocal type SGmA. 

Once the membrane is installed it is then time to 

seal the laps to make it watertight. This is 


normally achieved through heat welding with 

most single-ply systems, but with Sika-Trocal 

membranes this is also usually carried out with 

solvent welding, making the process much 

quicker and more efficient. In all situations, a 

wind uplift calculation will need to be carried out 

to determine the number of fasteners required, or 

to establish if it is safe to install an adhered 

system. Sika-Trocal licensed contractors can log 

into the Sika-Trocal web-based programme where 

they can generate their own wind uplift 

calculations, all in accordance with the latest 

European codes of practice. 

Good outlets 

Sika-Trocal single-ply membranes, especially the 

mechanically-fastened type S system, will use 

membrane-laminated profile metals at all 

perimeters and change of angles within the 

roofing system to restrain the membrane. Again, 

these should be designed in accordance with BS 

6229, therefore at upstand junctions the 

minimum height should be 150mm above finish 

roof surface. Once the main roof is complete, the 

outlets and any penetrations can be completed. 

Roof outlets will normally be supplied in rigid PVC 

so the membrane can be fully-welded to these in 

the same way as the laps of the membrane, 

creating a watertight seal. Penetrations can also 

be detailed using rigid PVC units or Sika-Trocal 

“A wind uplift 

calculation will need to 

be carried out to 

determine the number 

of fasteners required, 

or to establish if it is 

safe to install an 

adhered system” 

laminated metals formed to suit the size and 

shape of the detail. Standard UPVC pipes – 

such as SVP pipes – can be detailed using 

single-ply membrane and fully-welded to 

ensure they are watertight. Any services or 

freestanding plant that is to be located on the 

roof surface will need sacrificial protection 

layers installed to ensure the roofing membrane 

is protected and to ensure there are no issues 

with compatibility with the support feet and 

pads of the units, plus the roofing membrane 

itself. 

The final step 

To complete the roof, it may be required to install 

a slip-resistant walkway in order to protect the 

roofing system or keep foot traffic to a safe area 

of the roof. These can be fully-welded to the 

roofing systems, using various thicknesses such 

as Sika-Trocal WBP20 or the HD walkway for 

more frequent foot traffic. 

Further items, such as lightning conductor 

systems, are available using semi-rigid PVC 

pads that simply weld down to the roofing sheets 

at the required centres, making a very quick and 

simple method of attachment. Fall arrest 

systems are also manufactured using PVC 

coated units in order to be fully-sealed to the 

roofing membranes, again providing an easy 

application. 

Single-ply membranes are increasingly seen as a 

simple, modern solution for the watertight 

protection of a range of roofing applications. 

However, nothing should be taken for granted 

when it comes to their installation in order to 

guarantee long-term performance. 

Hopefully, this guide helps highlight a number of 

seemingly smaller details which should be fullyaddressed 

to ensure a single-ply membrane lives 

up to its billing as the quality, roofing solution for 

today and years to come. 

Contact Sika-Trocal 

01707 394444 

gbr.sika-trocal.sika.com 

@SikaTrocal 


Single-Ply Systems 

MORE THAN ONE SOLUTION... 

By Dave Maginnis, Managing Director at BriggsAmasco 

Whatever the project, whether it be the 

design of a new road system or putting 

together a team of staff to implement a 

change of working practice, its success relies 

upon putting the right people and procedures in 

place. This takes good planning; doing the 

necessary homework to ensure potential 

challenges can be overcome with the skills and 

solutions at your disposal. The same thorough, 

strategical process should be employed when 

selecting a single-ply roof to guarantee reliable, 

long-term performance. Matching the right 

membrane with the right application will go a long 

way to achieving that target. 

Single-ply roofing, comprising one layer of roof 

waterproofing, offers many benefits to the 

installer and end user, which is why for three 

decades it has been regarded as a modern 

waterproof solution. 

Quick and easy to apply with the potential to 

prefabricate, the issues regarding the 

membrane’s durability when it was introduced to 

the market in the 1960s have long since been 

overcome. It’s resulted in a high-performance, 

long-term roofing system that is a perfect fit for 

21st century building needs. 

For installers, single-ply roofing’s strength lies in 

its flexibility. The clean, lightweight membranes 

can be used for a range of applications. Flat or 

pitched roofs, barrelled, vaulted or vertical 

surfaces, single-ply is a waterproof solution for 

commercial and domestic projects large or small, 

simple or complex. 

“Matching the right 

membrane with the 

right application will 

go a long way to 

achieving that target” 

“Single-ply roofing has 

many benefits, but 

perhaps the most 

obvious to the 

bystander or passer-by 

is the aesthetic quality 

it brings to buildings” 

Popular choice 

PVC or TPW is a widely-used single-ply option, 

and one which BriggsAmasco has successfully 

employed in all manner of situations since the 

system’s commercial availability. Polymer 

membranes are joined and detailed using hot air 

welding. As with all single-ply materials, the 

membranes are cold-applied. This eliminates the 

need for hot work certificates and results in an 

installation that is safer than other traditional 

roofing methods. PVC membranes are strong and 

flexible, with a life expectancy of 30 years or 

more. Available in a range of colours to suit the 

end user’s aesthetic tastes, their adaptability 

enables the introduction of additional works such 

as walkways, which allow for the easy completion 

of inspections or site visits. This feature proves 

particularly useful when part of a commercial 

application such as a retail or entertainment 

complex. This is due to it enabling routine 

maintenance to be carried out without 

interruption to business, as it eliminates the need 

for the erection of complex scaffolding and other 

exterior equipment. 

Resistant in the extreme 

Ethylene propylene diene terpolymer monomer 

(EPDM) is a synthetic rubber single-ply 

membrane comprising large sheets which can be 

prefabricated under factory conditions before 

being transported to site, which considerably 

speeds-up installation time. The membrane’s 

Aberdeen Airport 

joints are usually adhesive-bonded, giving it 

superb resistance to weathering, ultraviolet 

radiation, ozone thermal shock and cyclic fatigue, 

making it an ideal option for buildings situated in 

climatic extremes. EDPM has an excellent service 

life of between 20 and 30 years. 

Single-ply roofing has many benefits, but perhaps 

the most obvious to the bystander or passer-by is 

the aesthetic quality it brings to buildings of all 

types. At street level, it presents a crisp, clean 

finish to all sides, whilst from above its uniformity 

is unencumbered by the array of plant materials 

its strength and flexibility allows. 

“The (EPDM) 

membrane’s joints are 

usually adhesivebonded, 

giving it 

superb resistance” 

Light, but durable; easy to apply and flexible, 

there are a number of reasons why contractors 

and end users have taken so strongly to singleply 

roof membranes, enshrining its status as a 

strong, reliable, simple weathertight roofing 

solution for many years to come. 

Contact BriggsAmasco 

0121 502 9600 

www.briggsamasco.co.uk 


Complete Building 

Envelope Solutions 

featuring Kingspan RW 

Pitched Roof System 

Superior build 

speed 

Options for PV 

integration 

Precision extruded 

daylighting 

LPCB-approved membranelined 

insulated gutters 

Height safety and 

fall arrest systems 

Specialist support from 

Kingspan Technical Services 

Bespoke flashings and 

fabrications for design flexibility 

Kingspan’s own complete range 

of structural steel products 

Kingspan Insulated Panels RW Roof system is a factory-engineered single 

component system for very fast installation. 

The system comprises a complete range of structural steel products, high performance panels, 

insulated gutters, superior polycarbonate daylighting, height-safety systems and a bespoke 

range of corners and flashings. As a manufacturer of the complete roof system including all 

components, we’re with you all the way with services to help save time and maximise project 

value and performance. 

The system can be protected by the Kingspan Warranty. 

Kingspan Insulated Panels 

Greenfield Business Park No.2, Holywell, Flintshire CH8 7GJ 

Tel: +44 (0) 1352 716100 www.kingspanpanels.co.uk

Liquid Systems 

PROJECT FOCUS: ADM MILLING SITE 

Stuart Hicks, from cold-applied liquid waterproofing specialist Kemper System, explains the 

challenges surrounding the renovation of this penthouse roof at a food processing plant 

located at an exposed site in London. 

Any roof refurbishment can present its 

challenges for contractors. From working 

at height to ensuring safe transportation 

of materials to site. 

Yet, these challenges were exacerbated during the 

repair of a 40-metre high penthouse roof area 

above an oil refinery at a food processing plant in 

Erith, London. 

The 1,000m² roof at the ADM Milling penthouse, 

adjacent to the River Thames in London, was 

experiencing water ingress and presented many 

key challenges for architects and contractors; its 

exposed location, the height of the building and 

access considerations for 

operatives, the busy and 

occupied nature of the food 

milling plant, and the 

requirement for a quick and easy 

waterproofing solution. 

Specification considerations 

Working closely with Northfall Design Associates, 

the highly experienced and knowledgeable team 

at Kemper System helped to devise a successful 

conservation programme at the ADM Milling 

penthouse to address water ingress caused by 

severe deterioration. 

The oil refinery is housed within the 

ADM penthouse building and is 

more than 100-years-old. 

The flat roof area which required 

refurbishment sits above the oil 

refinery with steeply pitched mansards, 

dormers and concrete gutters which also needed 

to be refurbished. 

A quick, yet durable waterproofing solution was 

required as the food milling plant was occupied 

and needed to remain fully functioning throughout 

the project. After a consultation process, Kemper 

System’s Kemperol 2K-PUR solvent-free and 

The 1,000m² roof at the ADM Milling 

penthouse, adjacent to the River 

Thames in London, required 

refurbishment 


odourless waterproofing membrane was specified. 

Roofing contractor Garhigh Southern was able to 

install the Kemperol 2K-PUR system in a single, 

wet-on-wet process after removing, cleaning and 

priming the existing concrete substrate. 

Steep mansard and dormer repairs 

Concrete repairs were also required on the steep 

mansards and dormers prior to installation, and 

on the flat roof area to address disused venting 

outlets and to obtain optimum thickness of the 

concrete substrate prior to installation of the 

Kemperol 2K-PUR system. 

Application 

The Kemperol 2K-PUR liquid waterproofing was 

then applied using a roller, with a reinforcement 

fleece laid directly into the wet resin, immediately 

followed by more resin on top to ensure complete 

saturation of the fleece. The cured solution then 

forms a seamless, elastomeric waterproof 

membrane that cannot delaminate and is UV 

“The handling and 

laying of sheet 

membrane materials 

would not have been 

practical and 

increased the 

safety risk” 

stable – directly addressing the issues of water 

leaking into the building. 

Detailing and obstacles 

The works also demanded complex detailing 

around the disused vents, several outlets and 

plant on the main roof area. Because of the 

nature of the building, the food processing mill 

was still occupied during the works, which also 

included a steam release from the oil refinery 

several times a day. This meant contractors had 

to work during weekend hours when the mill was 

closed to avoid any potential health and safety 

risks, as well as being flexible around the working 

processes of the plant. 

Despite this challenge, contractors were able to 

install Kemper System’s liquid waterproofing 

quickly and with ease thanks to its versatile liquid 

application technique. 

Below: Kemper System’s Kemperol 2K-PUR solvent-free & 

odourless waterproofing membrane was specified to 

refurbish the ADM Milling penthouse 

Access issues and practical systems 

Gary Buckman, director at Garhigh Southern, 

said: “Kemperol liquid waterproofing was an ideal 

choice on this project for many reasons. One 

main challenge was access to site as not only 

was the complex roof area 40-metres high, but 

the client requested for there to be no scaffolding 

from the ground and up the building. Therefore, 

we devised a plan to erect hanging scaffolding 

out of the dormer windows. The ease of 

application of the Kemperol 2K-PUR ensured 

installation ran as smoothly as possible.” 

Gary continued: “In addition, because of the 

exposed location of the building – next to London’s 

River Thames – operatives were also faced with 

high winds during installation being completely 

exposed to the elements, and the steam released 

from the plant was also a potential health and 

safety hazard. The handling and laying of sheet 

membrane materials would not have been 

practical and increased the safety risk further for 

installers and employees. Therefore, Kemper 

System’s two-component liquid applied system 

was ideally suited to these conditions.” 

This project presented many design and 

installation challenges which were overcome 

thanks to the Kemperol 2K-PUR waterproofing 

solution applied by skilled contractors. The level 

of variation and detail of the substrates that 

required refurbishment showcases the versatility 

of the liquid applied resin, and contractors were 

able to safely install the system to the extremely 

steep mansard as well as guttering and detailing 

around the roof area. 

The fact Kemper System’s waterproofing solution 

is eco-friendly and odourless was an added bonus 

for the client operating within the food-sector, and 

work was able to be carried out whilst the building 

was still occupied with little disruption. 

Contact Kemper System 

01925 445532 

www.kemper-system.com 

@KemperSystemUK 


Green Roofs 

GOING GREEN: IT’S EASY IF YOU 

KNOW HOW... 

Karl Moxon, Bid Manager at Prater, looks at the factors contributing to the growing trend for 

green roof systems in the commercial market, and the key considerations contractors should 

make when it comes to final installation. 

For commercial projects, the demand for 

green roofs has been growing steadily for 

the last ten years, significantly increasing 

since 2015. So what has caused this increasing 

trend for green roofing? 

Policies such as the Mayor’s London 

Infrastructure Plan 2050 – which targets big 

businesses through the capital business 

improvement districts (BIDs) – are helping to 

focus future builds on the impact they will have 

on the environment. 

Audits of London’s BIDs have already identified 

that potentially 25% to 32% of the land area in 

central London could be retrofitted with green 

roofs, without significant change to the existing 

buildings. 

With the green agenda now high on the list of 

government priorities and space for development 

at a premium, green roof installations have 

become a condition of planning permission for 

certain types of projects – 

particularly public and 

commercial. 

For clients and architects, a 

green roof is seen as a way to 

maximise the use and experience 

of the space in either a public, 

commercial or residential urban environment. In 

addition to extended space, green urban spaces 

have the potential to help us all achieve 

sustainability criteria – such as BREEAM and 

LEED – as well as support an organisation’s 

Left: Karl Moxon is Bid Manager 

at Prater 

wider corporate social 

responsibility goals. There are 

often many more benefits to the 

installation of green roofs than its 

intended end user requirements. Many 

green roof installations are often designed to 

enhance environmental benefits by promoting and 

supporting wildlife, habitat and migration, plant 

colonisation, air quality and pollutant reduction, 

water management, rainwater run-off and 

drainage benefits – all using environmentally 

sustainable resources. 

Opposite, we’ve listed the key considerations 

contractors should make when installing a green 

roof: 

Left: The Alder Hey Children’s Hospital in Liverpool features 

a fantastic green roof. Below: The sewage works at Green 

Haven benefits from this green roof which blends in with the 

South Downs 


What type of green roof? 

There are three main classifications of green roof: semi-intensive, 

intensive and extensive. Semi-intensive roofs will typically require a 

deeper level of substrate, but as a result a wider range of plants can be 

incorporated into the design. Intensive green roofs are predominantly 

built for recreational use – such as providing additional outside space – 

and often require regular maintenance and irrigation. Extensive green 

roofs provide environmental benefits to society, such as reducing CO2 

levels, and reduce whole lifecycle costs to the end client. 

Logistics, logistics, logistics 

Contractors who have installed green roofing systems before will be 

well aware that careful planning and close co-ordination between 

all parties is absolutely paramount before work begins to ensure 

that the materials can be delivered to site, off-loaded and 

transported to the end location exactly when needed. Some 

installations, such as sedum green roofing, ideally needs to be 

installed within 24 hours of delivery to prevent damage to the 

vegetation. 

Challenges of installation 

Green roof systems can present a particular challenge when it comes to 

the transfer of materials for installation. The roofing area is often large 

and therefore the volume of substrate material means that equipment 

must be utilised to ensure the safe delivery of the system. Installed green 

roofs are difficult to physically protect from a live construction 

environment and are therefore often installed towards the end of the 

construction programme. Early engagement with experienced contractors 

is essential in overcoming the logistical and physical challenges. 

Carry that weight 

Green roof systems are also heavier than traditional roofs and 

installing a green roof will add between 50kg – 200kg/m². In 

retrofitted applications, it is crucial that contractors are aware of 

the load-bearing capabilities of the building’s structure. In 

addition, the roof should account for the saturated weight of the 

green roof, snow loads and any imposed service loads such as 

pedestrian access loads and point loads from water features and 

large trees. 

Consider windloads 

Contractors should ensure that wind loads are calculated according to 

BS EN 1991-1-4: 2005+A1:2010. The system should resist uplift from 

wind forces either by anchoring the installation to the main structure, or 

by having sufficient self-weight to prevent uplifting and displacement in 

windy conditions. 

Check the pitch 

Depending on the pitch, the green roof build-up may be different. Pitches 

of 10° or more will have different requirements to flat and low-pitched 

roofs. On roofs above 10°, there is a risk of the substrates being exposed 

due to excessive shear forces. Measures such as retention baffle 

systems and slip barriers should be considered at the design phase. 

Insulation and waterproofing 

It is crucial to ensure that the roofing system works hand in hand with 

the green roofing system for both the application and longevity of the 

building. Engaging with a specialist contractor through the initial design 

and specification process is key to ensuring that the roof membrane 

design and green roofing systems are compatible for the application. 

Selecting a membrane that protects the roof’s waterproof covering by 

preventing plant roots from growing through it will ensure the longevity 

of the system and reduce the need for costly remedial work. 

Consider the cost 

Long-term and regular maintenance of a green roof should be 

factored into the specification process. Whilst extensive green roofs 

are generally robust and considered low maintenance, the type of 

installation can affect the level of maintenance required. For 

example, installing an intensive or semi-intensive classified roof 

will often require sophisticated irrigation and regular maintenance 

cycles. 

The Solution 

Specifying and installing a green roof can be an extremely complicated process. As such, early engagement 

is recommended to ensure that the designs are in line with the client and end user requirements in terms of 

aesthetics, technical performance, sustainability and ecology. By considering all factors prior to installation, 

contractors can ensure delivery to the highest possible standard. 

Contact Prater 

01737 772 331 

www.prater.co.uk 

@praterltd 


Roofing Updates 

For further info on all these roofing updates and more, visit www.total-contractor.co.uk 

BLUE ROOF THINKING 

FROM BAUDER 

As the conversation surrounding Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems heightens, Bauder has 

approached the challenges of localised flooding and standing water head-on by developing 

BauderBLUE for rooftop and podium solutions. The blue roof system manages rainwater 

discharge by attenuating water and releasing at a steady rate within a 24-hour window. 

The BauderBLUE Flow restrictor 

Each BauderBLUE roofing solution is unique, as calculations for the flow restrictor are specific to each project 

to ensure that the water run-off during storm conditions meet the requirements of local planning authorities, whilst ensuring structural integrity. 

Nigel Blacklock, technical director at Bauder, explained: “With the introduction of the SuDS legislation, the evolution of our ever-popular green roof system was a 

natural process. Using rooftop and podium solutions will address the excess water issue at source by providing the necessary drainage along with regulation 

compliance and optimal waterproofing.” www.bauder.co.uk/blue-roofs 

SURE-FOOTED WITH SOLID GEAR 

The ONE GTX from Solid Gear is a superbly constructed safety shoe with seven integrated 

layers to deliver excellent comfort and protection. 

With a GORE-TEX SURROUND membrane they’re fully breathable and ideal for warmer weather 

and combined indoor/outdoor activities. The shoe’s stretchable upper is water-resistant and 

what’s more, it has a honeycombed sole for enhanced grip and a composite midsole. It also has 

a stabilising heel support to minimise injuries from twisting. The ONE GTX also comes with Solid 

Gear’s newly developed NANO Toe-Cap. www.solidgearfootwear.com 

EXTENSIVE RANGE CATALOGUED 

SFS has published a new catalogue for its flat roofing product range. 

Now available to download at www.sfsintec.co.uk and to request as a printed catalogue, the 

new 200+ page Flat Roofing Catalogue is a comprehensive update to the previous issue to 

reflect the extensive range of products and systems offered by SFS. The catalogue details the 

innovative solutions available for the three main SFS systems – the isofast fully metallic 

system, the isotak thermal break fastening system and the isoweld induction welding system. 

www.sfsliterature.com 

BLUE/BLACK SLATES TURN HEADS 

Cembrit Moorland Blue/Black slates have been used on phase two of St Modwen’s newbuild 

housing development in Dursley, Gloucestershire. 

The Moorland Blue/Black slates provide a contrast with the light coloured fascia materials and 

surrounding greenery. This clean appearance is enhanced by the first class installation work carried 

out by McDonnell-Price across the development, which features roofs with Velux windows and many 

vents and valleys, alongside several pitch variants. Moorland 600x300 slates were fixed with two copper 

nails at the top of each slate, with a copper rivet supporting the bottom of each slate. www.cembrit.co.uk 


FASTER DRY VERGE FIX 

Redland has launched two new dry verge products to coincide with the publication of BS 8612: Dryfixed 

ridge, hip and verge systems for slating and tiling. 

The new dry verges – DryVerge and Rapid DryVerge – are specifically designed to not only meet the 

requirements of BS 8612, but also to be best in class. Moreover, the dry verges have been designed to be 

even easier and faster to fix than their predecessors. The verges feature a particularly effective stop-ended starter unit that makes it far harder to get fitting 

wrong – minimising the risk of corrections and call-backs. 

The streamlined design also adds to the aesthetics of a roof, with a straight bottom line that mimics the look of an undercloak with traditional mortar. And 

while some dry verges allow water to run back onto the wall, which can lead to unsightly damp staining, Redland’s new products incorporate special drainage 

features that direct the water away from the gable. The new units are ‘handed’, coming in left and right-handed options; with each pack containing 18 of each, 

along with stainless steels screws and a set of installation instructions: another basic requirement of BS 8612. 

The new products differ in material – one being ABS, and the other high impact polystyrene (HIPS) – and colour options. www.redland.co.uk/dryverge 

CURVED DETAILS DELIVERED 

Marley Alutec has supplied its products to Magnolia House, a new purpose-built 

£1million support centre at Birmingham Children’s Hospital. 

Marley Alutec worked closely with the contractor Marshdale. The company’s products were 

specified by the architect because of their abilities to be curved, as well as their highperformance 

values. Products from Marley Alutec’s Evoke fascia and soffit range were used 

throughout the project. Also installed at the project was Marley Alutec’s Aligator Boxer boltless 

guttering and Flush-fit downpipes. www.marleyalutec.co.uk 

HARDWORKING HOODIES 

Snickers Hoodies have long been favourites among professional craftsmen and women – so the new range of 

knitted Hoodies is bound to be a big hit. 

There’s a ‘Full Zip’ or ‘Over-Head’ option and they’re the ideal combination with Snickers’ First and Second Layer Undergarments 

and can comfortably be worn under a jacket on chilly days. With a contemporary design, four colour options and a double-lined 

hood for extra warmth, these hardworking Hoodies are great for all trades on site. Made from a cosy, durable fabric for extra 

ruggedness, they’ve got an adjustable drawstring in the hood plus kangaroo handwarmer pockets at the front. They also feature 

an unmistakable 3D-printed Snickers logo and are ideal for company profiling. www.snickersworkwear.co.uk 

CLEVER STUFF WINS AWARD 

Wienerberger has snapped up a new Building Information Modelling (BIM) award 

following the BIM Show Live, 2018. 

Up against stiff competition, Wienerberger, working together with PCSG, snapped up the ‘Clever 

Stuff’ award with their winning entry of the Viability tool; an innovative application that enables a 

user to search for any location in the UK by coordinates, postcode or by browsing, and quickly 

retrieves information that is required to consider the social, resource and commercial viability of a 

development. www.wienerberger.co.uk 


Rooflights 

SHEDDING LIGHT ON ROOFLIGHTS 

By Andy Veater, Field Services Engineer South at Kingspan Light + Air 

There are lots of benefits to introducing more 

natural light into buildings. From a practical 

point of view, it reduces the need to switch 

on lights during the day, saving energy and 

helping to keep electricity bills down. There has 

also been lots of research that has shown 

exposure to daylight can have a positive effect on 

people’s health, wellbeing and productivity in a 

variety of settings; from schools and hospitals to 

workplace environments. In light of this growing 

demand, it is important for roofing contractors to 

understand the different types of rooflights 

available, how they are installed and what 

advantages they can offer. 

In-plane vs. out-of-plane 

As more building owners recognise the benefits of 

daylighting, it is not only new buildings which are 

being designed with the introduction of skylights 

in mind, but retrofit applications are becoming 

increasingly popular too. As such, it is important 

to consider how certain rooflight designs can be 

integrated within existing roof systems. 

There are two key types of roof profiles. ‘In-plane’ 

rooflights, such as the polycarbonate strips often 

seen on the roofs of industrial units, sit 

seamlessly within a roof system. They are often 

preferred by designers, particularly on low or 

visible roofs, as they maintain a smooth sightline. 

However, unless they’re specifically 

manufactured to integrate with the rest of the roof 

system, these rooflights can be difficult to 

properly seal and make weathertight, especially 

in retrofit applications. 

‘Out-of-plane’ rooflights, which sit above the 

roofline, often offer a more robust solution. These 

rooflights are typically mounted and fixed over a 

prefabricated kerb. This kerb can be fitted into 

openings cut in the existing roofing system, and 

quickly and easily sealed with factory-fitted tape 

and weather sweep flipper gaskets. This allows 

for more of a margin of error when cutting and 

means the rooflights can be installed 

after the roof has already been 

installed – perfect for retrofit 

applications and speedy 

delivery. 

Daylighting design 

As ‘out-of-plane’ rooflights don’t 

have to match the profile of the roof, 

more innovative designs can be used to get a 

better overall performance of the rooflight. For 

example, the Kingspan Day-Lite Kapture skylight 

has a unique design using semi-spherical domes. 

This unusual shape has been fine-tuned to 

capture as much light as possible, even when the 

sun is low in the sky in the early morning or late 

evening. 

The rooflight has another innovation: a layer of 

glazing made up from microscopic prisms. These 

so called ‘nanoprisms’ are really effective at 

dispersing natural light. This not only prevents 

uncomfortable glare or hot spots forming in the 

room below, but it also enables daylighting to be 

predictably modelled, like a light fitting, to 

achieve the necessary daylight levels. As well as 

making life easier for installers, precisely tailoring 

the area of the roof dedicated to rooflights 

(without losing out on that valuable daylight) can 

also help to make the building more energy 

efficient. Whilst rooflights typically have a worse 

U-value than the area of roof around them, 

increasing the amount of daylight that can enter 

the building should mean lights can be kept off 

for longer – cutting the electricity demand. 

Getting the balance right makes all the 

difference. 

As a final benefit, the domed shape can also help 

to transfer loads such as snow or leaves to the 

side of the rooflight, preventing it from settling 

and obscuring the natural light. Taking into 

account the weather in the UK last month, this is 

an important consideration! 

Image: ‘Out-of-plane’ rooflights are typically 

mounted and fixed over a prefabricated 

kerb, offering a robust and weathertight 

solution. 

Safety measures 

Whilst it is important to ensure 

that any rooflight installed 

meets the correct non-fragility 

standards, an ‘out-of-plane’ rooflight 

can also provide additional safety benefits. 

Not least the fact that it is clearly visible, making 

it unlikely for anyone to accidentally walk or trip 

onto one. 

A steel-welded security mesh that is fixed within 

the dome of the rooflight is also recommended to 

ensure it meets the highest safety standards 

possible. Tested to the same non-fragility 

standards as the rooflight, this mesh serves two 

purposes: in the event of something, such as a 

fallen tree in a storm, or someone dropping onto 

and damaging the rooflight dome, or if it is 

removed for maintenance, the mesh will prevent 

anything from falling through it and causing 

further damage or injury in the space underneath. 

It also provides a visual deterrent for intruders 

looking to gain access to the property via the roof. 

Powder-coated white, the mesh does not affect 

the light transmission. 

Lighting the way 

Rooflight designs are changing and improving all 

the time. By taking advantage of the latest 

developments – such as Kapture – installers can 

make installations easier and safer whilst also 

delivering a better end-result for customers. Win, 

win for everyone! 

Contact Kingspan Light + Air 

01352 716100 

www.kingspanlightandair.co.uk 

@KingspanLandA 


Protective 

casing 

Wraptite ® 

Wraptite, a strong robust external air barrier designed to keep buildings airtight 

and dry. Easy to install, it combines the best properties of a vapour permeable 

membrane and an airtight membrane in one affordable, self-adhering product. 

Ladybird - Their bright colouring is used as a defence mechanism and 

their antennae and eyes can be drawn back into the pronotum: 

a protective casing. 

Get in touch to find out more about Wraptite 

☎ 01250 872 261 ✉ contact@proctorgroup.com 

www.proctorgroup.com 

14/5153 

Group

Safety Focus 

NON-FRAGILITY ROOF GUIDANCE 

MEANS NO SAFETY COMPROMISE 

By Carlton Jones, Director of MCRMA 

Working at heights is rarely out of the 

news and it is therefore essential that 

all involved in the roofing industry 

understand the specific requirements for roof 

access and maintenance. In its guidance 

document Non-fragility of roofs: a checklist, the 

Metal Cladding and Roofing Manufacturers 

Association (MCRMA) gives detailed advice for 

anyone who has to access a roof, whilst ensuring 

that there is no compromise on safety. 

As in all building work, good safety standards are 

essential to prevent accidents. In accordance 

with the Health and Safety at Work Act and the 

Construction (Design and Management) or CDM 

Regulations, buildings must be designed with 

safety in mind, not only for the construction 

period itself, but also throughout the normal life of 

the building. This will include considering the 

safety of people involved in maintenance, 

installation of PVs, forming of penetrations, 

inspections, repair and even demolition. For 

example, it might mean as part of the design 

process providing permanent access to the roof 

via a fixed ladder and hatch, or walkways and 

parapets. 

This requirement links to the 2005 Work at Height 

Regulations (WAHR) which applies to all work at 

“Are any of the 

fasteners missing or 

not attached to the 

purlins? If yes, the roof 

is FRAGILE” 

height where there is any risk of a fall liable to 

cause injury. It places duties on employers, the 

self-employed and any person who controls the 

work of others, such as facilities managers or 

building owners. 

A safe system of work 

Work on a roof during the construction and 

installation phase and the subsequent 

operational phase must be undertaken with 

extreme caution by experienced and competent 

people. 

Contractors and those planning to work on the 

roof must meticulously plan and document a safe 

system of work, including a specific risk 

assessment and method statement before 

starting construction, installation, inspections or 


maintenance. 

MCRMA and its members work closely with the 

Advisory Committee for Roofsafety (ACR) to 

ensure that all those involved in roof work 

construction have access to the most up to date 

advice on safe working practices, and also the 

legal requirements. 

Modern metal-based industrial and commercial 

roofing systems incorporating rooflights and 

components which have been tested and 

assessed for non-fragility and installed in 

accordance with manufacturer’s installation 

instructions can provide a suitable platform for 

work. However, the use of safety netting, edge 

protection and safety line systems with attached 

safety harnesses should always form part of the 

safe system of work. 

A degree of responsibility 

In addition to guidance provided by MCRMA 

members, it is incumbent on all those who need 

to work at heights to accept a degree of 

responsibility for their own safety. The contracting 

company, individual workers and the building 

owner or occupier all have a part to play to 

ensure that the work is conducted in a safe 

manner. The following checklist must be 

considered before accessing any roof: 

•The roof should be declared FRAGILE unless there 

is documentation to confirm its current non-fragility. 

•Could the building’s external or internal 

environment have an adverse influence on the 

durability of the materials, systems or assemblies 

used in the construction? 

• Before accessing the roof, the condition of the 

roof should be assessed from the inside of the 

building for the following: 

– Are any of the fasteners missing or not 

attached to the purlins? If yes, the roof is 

FRAGILE. 

– Count the number of fasteners per sheet or the 

panel width per bearing end. If there are less than 

3, the roof is FRAGILE. 

– If corrosion is visible on the liner or inside face 

“It is incumbent on all 

those who need to work 

at heights to accept a 

degree of 

responsibility for their 

own safety 

of the panel, the roof is FRAGILE. 

– If the joints in the liner or sandwich panels are 

not in close contact with the purlins, the roof is 

FRAGILE. 

•If roof access is unavoidable, where possible 

always use a fall restraint and / or fall arrest 

system. If no safety line system is available or 

the safety line system has not got a current test 

certificate, do not access the roof. 

•Before connecting to the fall restraint and / or 

fall arrest system, check that it has been tested 

and certified within the last 12 months. 

•Check that the fall restraint and / or fall arrest 

system posts are not corroded: if there are signs 

of corrosion do NOT use and do NOT access the 

roof. 

•Before accessing any roof, ensure that a 

specific assessment and method statement has 

been prepared and issued. 

“Roof safety goes 

beyond establishing 

non-fragility of the roof 

area & component 

parts” 

Images. Opposite page: A typical walkway system. Image 

courtesy of M R Site Services; Left: Roofsafe rail installation on 

a trapezoidal roof. Image courtesy of Capital Safety; Below: 

Latchways Constant Force fall protection and WalkSafe system 

on Kalzip standing seam roof. Image courtesy of Latchways. 

•If in any doubt, do NOT access the roof until 

further checks can be made by a competent 

person. 

MCRMA member companies can advise on the 

suitability and performance of materials, systems 

and assemblies which may be used within a 

tested and rated non-fragile roof assembly. In 

addition, the MCRMA Safety Lines Group has 

been formed to address industry concerns that 

the specific requirements for safe work at height; 

that is, access, inspection and maintenance, is 

still not fully understood in certain sectors of the 

market place. Specific guidance can be found at 

http://mcrma.co.uk/safety-lines-group/ 

Roof safety goes beyond establishing non-fragility 

of the roof area and component parts and it 

encompasses many other aspects during the 

various phases of construction. The published 

information by the ACR is wide reaching and the 

material standards, good practice guides and 

information sheets can all be easily accessed 

directly or via the MCRMA roof safety page at 

http://mcrma.co.uk/roof-safety/ 

Contact MCRMA 

01633 895633 

www.mcrma.co.uk 

@MCRMA1 


Fixings & Fasteners 

BEST PRACTICE FOR YOUR PROJECT 

By Jason Wood, Contracts Director at Fixing Point 

The last few weeks has seen some of the 

most extreme cold weather in the UK in 

years. The arrival of the ‘beast from the 

east’ and Storm Emma in March is said to have 

had the biggest financial impact on the economy 

since December 2010. 

Transport networks were forced to grind to a halt 

and retailers had to stop trading and close their 

doors completely in some cases. 

The construction industry, however, has been hit 

harder than any other sector, with an estimated 

loss of around £2bn over the three worst days of 

weather in early March. 

But it’s not just the financial cost of delays that 

can result in real problems for contractors on site 

during bad weather. Using the wrong fixings or 

applications can seriously increase the risk of 

damage to a building, particularly in high winds 

and very low temperatures. 

Choosing the right fixings and fasteners is about 

more than just ticking a box. The immediate 

surrounding environment, the full specification of 

a building and the location of a site all play a 

crucial part in the decisions you need to make 

about the materials you use. 

These are our top tips for choosing the right 

fixings and fasteners for your project. 

Making sense of specifications 

Understanding the specification for a fixing and 

its application is crucial for ensuring a structure 

holds together securely and validates long-term 

warranties. Yet, contractors can often find this 

“It is important to 

provide all the 

information about the 

building materials and 

construction” 

“Establishing the final 

material the fixing will 

be going into is always 

our primary focus” 

information to be a confusing and frustrating 

obstacle. 

You should always ask to see the technical 

performance sheet for any chosen fixing, but it is 

important to provide all the information about the 

building materials and construction at this stage so 

that appropriate recommendations can be made. 

In most building structures, for example, a roof 

will be more affected by wind uplifts than a wall, 

so roof fixings would normally require a larger 

washer than wall fixings. 

The ultimate pull-out grade of a particular fixing 

is dependent on the final thickness or type of 

material it is going into, and the size of washer 

recommended will be determined by the area of 

the building. 

A structural engineer should be able to advise on 

how many fixings are required per square metre 

to meet the required structural specification of 

the building project before final orders are placed. 

If in doubt, contractors should always seek advice 

from their fixings supplier on technical 

performance specifications. 

For us, establishing the final material the fixing 

will be going into is always our primary focus 

before we make any recommendations to 

contractors. 

Direct impact from weather and 

surrounding environment 

The next major factor to consider when choosing 

the appropriate fixings and fasteners for any 

given structure is its immediate environment and 

likely exposure to extreme weather. 

Coastal, chemical and high wind locations, for 

example, always carry a higher risk of structural 

damage and corrosion exposure than other areas. 

It is therefore really important to understand how 

much force a particular fixing can take and its 

resistance to the corrosive elements once you 

have established the area, application and 

material thickness. 

In adverse conditions like the severe weather of 

the last month, high wind force can cause 

pressure and suction loads on the sheet 

material, which could result in the sheet pulling 

over the washer if incorrectly specified. This 

might not only cause damage to the building but 

could also mean a serious risk to health and 

safety. 

Exposure to strong winds, rain and snow will also 

have an impact on the number of fixings required 

per square metre. This should always be 

determined by a structural engineer, and extra 

care should be taken to ensure all laps and 

sheets are sealed using the correct mastics to 

prevent leakages and movement of the roof and 

wall sheets after installation. 

Sites near the coast or in areas of chemical 

exposure, such as buildings located near the sea 

shore, heavy industrial plants, airports and train 

stations, need a different set of specifications 

altogether when it comes to choosing the right 

fixings. Carbon, for example, might be the right 

choice for inner city shopping centres or office 

units, but it is not recommended as a long-lasting 

solution for corrosive environments. 

Carbon v stainless steel 

In any given project the pressure is always on to 

meet strict budgets and work to tight schedules. 

But if your work is put on hold because of severe 

weather conditions, the last thing you want to be 

worrying about is the reliability of the building 

materials you’ve chosen to use. 


“Exposure to strong winds, rain and 

snow will also have an impact on the 

number of fixings required per 

square metre” 

T ruck 

& T rack 

mount 

specialist 

Safe, cost effective & 

innovative solutions 

for working at height. 

It might be tempting to try and cut costs where possible and make a few 

savings with your fixings and fasteners, particularly given that stainless steel 

fasteners roughly cost four times as much as carbon equivalents. This 

decision can, however, end up costing you much more further down the line. 

We sometimes find that contractors budget only for carbon fixings and do not 

consider the impact of weather and corrosion in their decision-making 

process, but rushing this process to meet time constraints may result in 

important specifications being missed at tender stage. 

Stainless steel is much more durable than carbon and can ensure the overall 

stability of a structure is maintained over time. 

If carbon fixings are your only viable option however, using them with 

moulded plastic heads can improve their life expectancy as the nylon 

protects the head of the carbon steel fastener. 

It is also worth noting though, that 25-year warranties do not apply for 

carbon fixings, even in low corrosive areas. 

At Fixing Point, our main priority is to provide our clients with accurate and 

reliable advice based on the specifications and demands of each individual 

project. In short, we need to make sure we supply a fixing that will stay in 

place and do its job. In order to offer the best advice however, it is crucial 

that contractors provide us with all the relevant information about the fixing 

application, location and environment from the outset. 

Contact Fixing Point 

01242 265100 

www.fixingpoint.com 

@FixingPoint 

TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT 

SITE SURVEY 

VEYS 

24/7 WORKING HOURS 

TELECOMS SPECIFIC WOR RKING PACKAGES 

FAMILIARISATION VIDEOS 

LONG TERM HIRE 

call 0844 288 9338 

visit wilsonaccess.co.uk 


Cladding Updates 

THRUWALL DELIVERS 

A new external envelope system from Etex Building Performance is set to “reduce 

uncertainty around building performance and speed up the specification and 

construction phases of projects.” 

For further info on all these cladding updates and more, visit www.total-contractor.co.uk 

The Thruwall system from Etex Building Performance is a single solution for the building 

envelope. It combines elements from the company’s three lightweight construction brands, 

Siniat, Promat and EOS Facades, to remove the need for project teams to procure three separate 

building products, saving them time, money and the need to review previously disparate 

performance data from materials providers. Thruwall is guaranteed under one 30-year warranty, 

providing regulatory compliance and assured technical performance for the construction supply 

chain and building users. The non-loadbearing in-fill system combines Siniat’s Weather Defence 

external sheathing board, light gauge steel framing from EOS and internal wall linings, drawing 

on Promat’s expertise in passive fire protection. www.etexgroup.com 

“THRUWALL IS 

GUARANTEED UNDER ONE 

30-YEAR WARRANTY” 

THE NATURAL APPROACH 

Pura Facades, has seen its business grow by a 34% in the last 12 months, increasing its 

turnover to £6 million. 

Pura focuses mainly on the provision of glass fibre reinforced concrete (GRC), terracotta and brick 

slip façade cladding panels. Director, James Butler, explained: “We founded the business four years 

ago to satisfy the growing demand for truly sustainable construction materials from architects and 

specifiers alike. The use of natural materials on new buildings has been growing over the last five 

years and this is a trend that looks set to feed into other areas.” www.purafacades.co.uk 

WEATHERED WITH TIME 

Thermally modified American ash was used for the exterior walls of Copperwood, an 

energy efficient, modern house in Indianna, designed by architects HAUS. 

The owner of the house chose not to protect the thermally modified material through oils or lacquer 

and instead let the material naturally weather into a darker grey. HAUS were set on detailing the 

wall as a rainscreen system, and Woodhaven, who supplied the timber, offered a clip / furring 

system supporting that approach, allowing water to drain out of the wall cavity. In the Indiana 

climate, the architects expect the material to last about 25 years. www.americanhardwood.org 

CORDLESS TOOLS GO LONGER 

TRUMPF has added 18V-Li-ion technology and brushless, low-wear motors to its range 

of battery-driven power tools. 

The new cordless TruTool models – shears, slitting shears, nibblers, profile nibblers, seam 

lockers and power fasteners – also incorporate the TRUMPF battery-optimised aluminium 

gear head which, in combination with the other new features provide up to 60% longer run 

time after each full charge. 

www.trumpf.com 


Note : Plywood Stoped Short 

To Ensure Linearlight Flex 

Can Be Slotted Through 

3mm Aluminium 

18 Plywood 

Wraped in Vasqueen DPC 

T-Section 

16mm Bar 

M10 Round 

Head Socket 

Screw BZP 

TITLE 

DESCRIPTION 

Is 

Noteest 

loaded weight = 1250kg (All loading weights and structural calculations to be checked by others) 

est weight of planter = 150kg 

Coordination With External Lighting 

To Be Reviewed With Phoenix 

Corners To Be Welded And Dressed 

Farrin 

Unless oth 

specified dim 

are in mill 

angles 

decimal dim 

± 2m 

Cappings - Copings - Fascias 

Soffits – Flashings - Bullnose 

Free Site Surveyed Measures 

01223 440044 info@lasermetals.co.uk www.lasermetals.co.uk

Market Overview 

“IMPORTED PRICES RISING” 

Want to know what’s happening in – and on the horizon for – the Building Insulation 

Market? Keith Taylor, Director of AMA Research, talks through some of the key points from 

the Building Insulation Products Market Report UK 2017-2021. 

The building insulation market has 

experienced significant change since 2013. 

Recent performance in the market has been 

mixed – while 2016 showed some improvement, 

the market value fell by 2% in 2017, reflecting a 

slowdown in the residential sector in particular, 

with growth in 2018 also expected to be modest. 

Government subsidies cut 

Changes to Government regulation and volatile 

energy costs have both played a part in 

destabilising the market, however, the most 

significant factor causing change in recent years 

is the fall in Government-subsidised retrofitting 

activity following the end of initiatives such as 

CERT and CESP in 2012 and the scrapping of The 

Green Deal in 2015. 

Key influences 

Key market influences include Building 

Regulations and energy prices, as well as the 

relative health of the construction market and the 

general economic situation. In the new build 

sector in particular, Building Regulations will be 

the main tool for reducing emissions. The Building 

Regulations Part L 2013 have been updated with 

an aim of reducing carbon emissions by a further 

6% on top of the 2010 standard for new domestic 

buildings, and by 9% for new nondomestic 

buildings. 

Higher end product prices 

Although industrial energy costs 

have fallen recently, over the 

longer-term energy prices are 

forecast to rise, which is likely to result 

in higher end product prices for insulation 

products. This is likely to be exacerbated by the 

falling value of the pound, leading to increased 

import prices for many materials used in the 

insulation industry. 

Most important market 

The recent changes to the market have had a 

significant impact on the market mix by end use 

sector. The dramatic fall in demand under the 

Green Deal and ECO has meant that the most 

important market is no longer domestic retrofit, 

which now accounts for less than one third of the 

“In the new build sector 

in particular, Building 

Regulations will be the 

main tool for reducing 

emissions” 

market by area installed. The new 

housebuilding sector has a 

similar share, this is higher 

than in recent years due to 

steadily rising numbers of 

housing starts and completions. 

The non-domestic market, which 

consists of mainly flat roofs and site-built 

metal cladding and roofing systems, has now 

become the largest end use sector with a share of 

around 36%. 

Cavity Walls and lofts are key 

Within the residential retrofit sector, the key areas 

of demand by application remains cavity walls 

and lofts, though the volume of insulation 

products sold into this sector has decreased 

significantly in recent years. In 2014 the amount 

of insulation material retrofitted installed was at 

43 million m², whereas the residential retrofit 

market was only around 18 million m² installed in 

2016, so this is a substantial reduction. Despite 

this, the potential for retrofitted insulation to 

Britain’s existing housing stock is enormous, with 

nearly 8 million uninsulated dwellings with solid 

walls, almost 6 million with lofts and several 

millions with uninsulated cavity walls. In addition, 

there is also a substantial area of non-domestic 

flat roofs that have no or inadequate insulation. 

Left: UK Building Market by Value 

(£m at MSP) 2013-2019 

Product mix 

The building insulation product mix has also 

experienced change in recent years. PUR / PIR 

products now have the largest market share of 

insulation products, accounting for around 40% 

of the market by value. This improvement has 

been driven by the high perceived thermal 

efficiency and effectiveness of rigid foam boards 

in building applications and their higher value 


Market Overview 

than mineral wool. Conversely, the market value 

of mineral wool products has fallen, mainly due to 

the fall in demand for such products under the 

Green Deal and ECO, but they still account for 

almost 30% of the total market in the UK. 

The impact of fire retardancy 

The issue of fire-retardancy has become 

increasingly prominent in the building industry, 

and this may be a factor influencing the 

insulation market to a greater extent going 

forward – particularly in shared accommodation 

applications – but whether there will be a 

material impact on the product mix remains to be 

seen. 

Supply structure 

The building and technical insulation products 

industry is reasonably fragmented in terms of 

supply structure and comprises a number of 

distinct sub-sectors. Some of the larger 

manufacturers and suppliers operate across 

several of these, while smaller companies tend to 

focus on just one or two. The key supply route for 

insulation products are specialist distributors. 

Builders merchants account for approximately 

one fifth of the market, while the remainder is 

split between direct sales to installers, direct 

sales to external wall insulation systems 

companies, converters and DIY stores. 

Market prospects 

In terms of market prospects, the market value of 

insulation products is likely to show only modest 

growth over the next few years, following a fairly 

flat market in 2017. Growth is likely to remain 

between 1-2% in the short term, with stronger 

growth expected towards the end of the forecast 

period, something which should help the building 

insulation market comfortably exceed its 2012 

value by 2020. 

Threats to growth 

Further falls in volume demand from the 

retrofitting sector will lead to lower growth 

levels going forward. A decline in output for key 

non-domestic construction sectors, such as 

offices, as well as slower growth in new 

housebuilding is also likely to limit growth, and 

Imported prices are expected to rise on both finished products and components 

Further falls in volume demand from the retrofitting sector 

could lead to lower growth levels going forward, whilst 

limited Government funding for this area of the market could 

also have a negative impact 

the market may also be negatively impacted by 

limitations in Government funding for 

retrofitting activity, with many homeowners 

reluctant to implement insulation-based energy 

saving measures without a strong financial 

incentive. 

Drivers for growth 

Of course, there are also positive factors which 

will help support growth. Demand for housing 

remains strong, and construction levels are 

expected to improve, albeit slowly. Rising gas and 

electric prices will stimulate demand for relatively 

inexpensive means of insulation in the domestic 

market such as loft and cavity wall insulation. 

“The deteriorating 

value of the pound 

Sterling will also have 

an impact with 

imported prices rising 

on both finished 

products and 

components” 

Added value solutions will also potentially add 

substance to the market, with the introduction 

and growth of certain products with claimed high 

thermal insulation values creating growth in some 

sectors. 

Rising imported prices 

The deteriorating value of the pound Sterling will 

also have an impact with imported prices rising 

on both finished products and components or 

chemicals, and in turn may lead to some market 

value growth, even if volume growth remains 

relatively depressed. 

Contact AMA Research 

01242 235724 

www.amaresearch.co.uk 

@AMAResearch 


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Inverted Roofs 

HOW TO DELIVER CORRECT 

THERMAL PERFORMANCE 

Karen Everitt at Ravatherm UK – manufacturer of Polyfoam XPS insulation – explains the 

issues surrounding inverted roof U-value calculations and the importance of getting it right. 

To achieve accurate thermal performance on 

any building project, key considerations 

must be made not only at design stage, but 

during installation, too. Ensuring a thermally 

efficient building which forms the basis of any 

energy or carbon reduction performance 

assessment is paramount in today’s construction 

and refurbishment arena to meet Building 

Regulation compliance. 

For inverted roof schemes, there are a number of 

important areas to consider – such as the 

building’s location, the effects of rainwater 

cooling and ensuring the product’s ‘design’ 

thermal conductivity is used. Ignoring these vital 

aspects on a project can lead to misleading U- 

value calculations and a shortfall in the building’s 

performance. 

Declared and design thermal conductivity 

The declared thermal conductivity of an insulation 

product refers to the value that is obtained for 

90% of production, with a 90% confidence level. 

In essence, it is the thermal conductivity of the 

product when it leaves the factory. 

In practice though, the insulation in an inverted 

roof is subjected to environmental conditions 

such as rainfall, as well as freeze thaw and 

moisture absorption by diffusion – which can 

have an effect on the efficiency of the thermal 

insulation. 

European Technical Approval Guidance (ETAG 

031-1) therefore requires the declared thermal 

conductivity of any insulant being used in an 

inverted roof be corrected in accordance with BS 

EN ISO 10456. The insulation is then assigned a 

design thermal conductivity, it is this value that 

should be used in inverted roof U-value 

calculations. 

Technical guidance 

It is always advisable for 

contractors to seek technical 

guidance when it comes to 

insulation specification and 

installation for inverted roof 

projects. European Technical 

Approval Guidance (ETAG 031-1) sets out 

the performance requirements for Inverted Roof 

Insulation Kits (systems), and is a guide to 

achieving European Technical Approval (ETA) on 

thermal insulation that is fully supported above a 

waterproofing layer, for both new and existing flat 

roofs. The guidance was issued to ensure 

consistent standards of assessment for inverted 

roof systems throughout Europe. 

An Inverted Roof Insulation Kit or System includes 

thermal insulation with either one or more filter 

layers, a separation layer or a water-flow 

reduction layer. It also offers advice on methods 

of verification, assessment criteria, and 

presumed conditions for design and 

application. 

Rainwater cooling and location 

On an inverted roof project, insulation is installed 

on top of the waterproofing layer. Whilst this can 

provide a number of advantages for the finished 

design of a building, consideration must be given 

to rainwater that reaches the waterproofing 

membrane through the inverted roof system. Any 

rainwater that reaches this waterproof layer will 

temporarily increase the rate of heat loss from 

the roof. 

The level of heat loss will be dependent upon the 

average rainfall in the location of the building, 

and the percentage of that rainfall which reaches 

the waterproofing layer. This is known as the 

Karen Everitt, Ravatherm UK – 

manufacturer of Polyfoam XPS 

‘rainwater cooling effect’ and 

must be considered when 

calculating the U-value by 

adding a rainwater correction 

factor. 

The amount of water reaching the waterproof 

layer can be reduced by adding a water control 

layer over the insulation and beneath the ballast 

layer which is an essential component of the 

insulation system. 

Uniformity for the future 

Ensuring correct thermal efficiency on a building 

project should not be a complicated issue in 

today’s market, and there is software available 

which can help formulate the correct U-value for 

inverted roof projects, if used by a 

knowledgeable and experienced technical 

manager to ensure an accurate result. This can 

be done for contractors and specifiers by liaising 

with a reputable insulation manufacturer prior to 

installation. 

To ensure quality and consistency is maintained 

throughout the industry, insulation 

manufacturers should also take the lead and 

only provide the correctly complied U-value 

calculations in line with ETAG 031 and Building 

Regulations, and incorporate the design thermal 

conductivity value. This is vital to reliably 

achieve correct U-value calculations and 

ensure the building performs as per the 

specification. 

Contact Ravatherm UK 

01429 855100 

www.ravatherm.co.uk 

@RavathermUK 


Advertorial 

NEW SFS ISOTAK BS-4,8 FASTENER 

Martyn Holloway of SFS explains why a newly improved fastener provides enhanced 

performance and a more cost-effective solution for installers. 

The use of thermally broken fasteners to 

secure the waterproof membrane and 

insulation layers has become the norm in 

most UK new build and refurbishment flat roof 

applications. Ten years ago SFS launched the 

isotak fastener range, encouraging the change 

from all metal to thermally broken polypropylene 

sleeves and 4,8mm diameter steel fasteners. 

Now, this sleeve and fastener solution has 

evolved with a fundamental improvement. 

SFS has focused specifically on the fastener 

element of the fixing which has resulted in the 

development of the new and significantly 

improved isotak BS-4,8 self-drilling fastener. 

Being the manufacturer of both the fastener and 

the appropriate polypropylene sleeves, SFS has 

been able to improve this product to provide 

optimum performance. The new SFS isotak BS- 

4,8 provides significantly improved pull-out 

performance. Compared to its predecessor, the 

new version offers 40% improvement for steel 

deck and 20% improvement for timber deck 

applications, thanks to the new optimised thread 

geometry. This means fewer fasteners per square 

metre for many projects, which offers the roofing 

contractor an even more cost effective 

installation. With its new, improved drill point BS- 

4,8 now provides for faster installation, improved 

reliability and more cost-effective installations. 

BS-4,8 is ideal for thin decks from 0,63mm 

through to 1,2mm. The drilling capacity is 2 x 

1.25mm and the fastener can self-drill through a 

single layer of up to 2mm-thick steel. The new 

characteristic values are available from European 

Technical Approval (ETA) 08/0262. Corrosion 

protection on the new BS-4,8 is also improved 

with extensive laboratory testing proving that the 

surface coating provides enhanced corrosion 

resistance. The new isotak BS-4,8 is fully tested 

and approved by FM and Sintef and through ETA 

08/0262 the product carries the CE mark. The 

proven strong and durable SFS isotak R45, R48 

and the R75 products remain market leading 

sleeves, and when combined with the new BS- 

4,8 fastener offer excellent value and 

performance. Whilst others have focused upon 

relatively minor adjustments to their 

polypropylene sleeves, SFS has revised the main 

fastening element, the screw! This ensures the 

new isotak BS-4,8 fastener “raises the bar” with 

respect to thermally broken fastener solutions. 

New 

isotak ® 

BS-4,8 

fastener 

• 

Improved pull-out performance 

• Faster, easier installation 

• Better corrosion protection 

Find out more at 

www.sfsintec.co.uk 

or call us on 0113 2085 500 


MEES Focus 

THE IMPORTANCE OF MAKING MEES 

MATTER FOR THE MARKET 

By Mark Harris, Divisional Building Technology Director, Kingspan Insulated Panels. 

The 1st April may not seem like the best date 

to introduce a major piece of legislation, but 

for landlords the new Minimum Energy 

Efficiency Standards (MEES) are no laughing 

matter. Put simply, MEES are designed to stop 

landlords in England and Wales from leasing 

substandard buildings. With the standard set to 

affect thousands of properties over the next few 

years, there’s a clear opportunity for contractors 

to step-forward and provide retrofit solutions. 

What are the requirements? 

MEES are contained within the catchily named 

‘Energy Efficiency (Private Rented Property) 

(England and Wales) Regulations 2015’. The key 

points are: 

•That landlords of private properties in England 

and Wales will be prevented from granting or 

renewing tenancies if a building’s Energy 

Performance Certificate (EPC) rating is lower than 

an E. 

Below: Kingspan says its QuadCore insulated core is the 

first closed cell insulation to be certified to FM4882 

“In many cases the 

original cladding for 

these buildings will 

feature little, if any, 

insulation” 

•This will become compulsory for all privately 

rented properties from 2023. 

Fines for non-compliance on non-domestic 

buildings can rise as high as £150,000, so this is 

an issue that landlords cannot afford to ignore. 

It’s also important to be aware of how this fits 

into the bigger legislative picture. Near the end of 

last year, the government released its Clean 

Growth Strategy which included a commitment to 

consult “on raising minimum standards of energy 

efficiency for rented commercial buildings”. 

In the same document, the government made 

clear that it aims to raise ‘as many homes as 

possible’ to an EPC of C by 2035. To properly 

futureproof their buildings against the need for 

further work and disruption, it makes sense for 

landlords of all buildings to target this level of 

performance where possible. 

Whilst there are a variety of ways to go about 

improving the EPC of a building, the best place to 

start is usually by taking a good look at the 

building envelope. This is particularly true for 

warehousing and distribution centres. In many 

cases the original cladding for these buildings will 

feature little, if any, insulation meaning it takes 

huge amounts of energy to keep them warm. For 

these buildings, the best solution is often to strip 

back the original cladding and fit an entirely new 

system such as a metal faced insulated panel 

system. 

A new start 

Over the past couple of decades, installers have 

become well acquainted with the benefits these 

insulated panel systems can bring to both new 


ideal for use on conservatory 

conversions, outbuildings 

and commercial projects 

A unique premium quality lightweight roofing 

tile available in a choice of three colours 

specifically developed for the UK market. 

The smaller ExtraLight ridge and hips are 

designed to be more aesthetically pleasing 

and in-keeping with a conservatory style roof. 

Priced in Kits or Pallet Quantities 

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MEES Focus 

and existing buildings. The single-component 

design means that once the original cladding is 

stripped, you can quickly and easily get the 

panels installed and make the building 

weathertight. In roof applications, this fast-track 

approach can reduce the amount of time spent 

working at height, particularly as each time a new 

panel is secured it creates a safe, walkable 

surface for installers. 

Modern insulated panel systems also offer 

excellent thermal performance. The latest 

generation of insulated cores can achieve thermal 

conductivities as low as 0.018 W/mk. This allows 

the U-value to be achieved with a thinner, lighter 

panel – crucial when dealing with existing 

buildings to keep structural loading to a 

minimum. The factory engineered jointing can 

also help to create a highly airtight structure, 

further reducing the building’s energy usage. 

Insulated panels with rigid thermoset insulation 

cores can also deliver excellent fire performance. 

Systems are available that meet the demanding 

requirements of insurance industry tests such as 

Loss Prevention Standard LPS 1181 and Factory 

Mutual FM 4880/4881, as well as BS 8414 for 

buildings over 18 metres. In addition, Kingspan’s 

new QuadCore insulated core is the first closed 

Below: Daylighting panels can now be installed between the 

insulated panels, boosting natural light in the space below, 

and solar PV arrays integrated to generate energy 

cell insulation to be certified to FM4882 – the FM 

Global standard assessing whether wall and 

ceiling materials are suitable for use in smokesensitive 

occupancies. 

“Modern insulated 

panel systems also 

offer excellent thermal 

performance” 

Above: Kingspan insulated panel systems are available with 

purpose-made ancillaries that can further improve the 

energy performance of a building 

Beyond the performance of the panels 

themselves, insulated panel systems are also 

typically available with a number of purposemade 

ancillaries that can further improve the 

energy performance of the building. These 

include solar PV arrays and daylighting panels 

that can be installed simply between the 

insulated panels, boosting natural light in the 

space below. By ordering all these components 

from a single supplier, it is possible to reduce 

the number of deliveries to site, limit 

installation issues and cut down the amount of 

waste. 

Staying ahead 

The government has made it clear that improving 

the energy efficiency of existing buildings will be a 

priority over the coming years. Insulated panel 

systems can provide a fast, safe and highperformance 

solution in cases where the existing 

envelope needs to be tackled – helping to deliver 

long-term energy and cost savings for building 

owners along with the all-important improved 

EPC rating. 

Kingspan Insulated Panels 

01352 717 251 

www.kingspanpanels.co.uk 

@KingspanIP_UK 


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Insulation Updates 

For further info on all these insulation updates and more, visit www.total-contractor.co.uk 

A HIGH QUALITY, COST 

EFFICIENT BUILD 

webertherm XM, the lightweight External Wall Insulation (EWI) system from Saint-Gobain Weber, was 

specified for a new-build development in the heart of Dublin. 

The Binary Hub is Dublin’s largest, purpose-built student accommodation and will ease pressure on the 

city’s student housing shortage. The Binary Hub was opened in 2016 by the Student Housing Company 

working with main contractor Bennett Construction. SPS wall and flooring panels were used in the 

construction of the Binary Hub with webertherm XM external wall insulation system applied to the façade, 

achieving a high quality, cost efficient build, with improved speed of construction and high thermal 

performance. The application of webertherm XM has contributed to a striking, stylish and modern 

appearance to the Binary Hub and will make a significant contribution to the creation of a high performance 

and sustainable building. www.netweber.co.uk. 

“THE BINARY HUB WAS 

OPENED IN 2016” 

Image courtesy of Bennett Construction 

MERCHANT TEAM APPOINTMENT 

As part of its continued commitment to independent merchants through its Choice 

initiative, Encon Insulation has welcomed Tristan Hickey to its dedicated Merchant 

Team. Tristan has been appointed Merchant Area Sales Executive in the Midlands. 

Encon says he brings with him a clear understanding of the needs of its merchant customers 

and technical product expertise. Speaking about his new role, Tristan said: “I’ll be drawing on 

my previous experience to add real value for our merchant customers, helping them develop 

their business and ensuring they have the best products.” www.merchantchoice.co.uk 

SUPPORT INCREASED 

Rob Firman has joined the Ravatherm UK team as a Technical and Specification Manager. 

Rob will work closely with architects, specifiers, contractors and distributors to troubleshoot 

specification queries as part of the technical support team which offers a quick turnaround service 

for all customers, whether they require assistance over email, telephone or face-to-face. He will 

also complete U-value calculations and condensation risk analysis for projects, plus develop 

technical specification documents and advise specifiers on the correct XPS products for different 

construction projects, as well as deliver technical training and CPDs. www.ravatherm.co.uk 

THE NEXT GENERATION 

FLIR Systems has launched the new third generation FLIR ONE and FLIR ONE Pro 

thermal imaging cameras. 

Powered by FLIR’s Lepton thermal microcamera core, the FLIR ONE builds upon a legacy of 

enabling thermal imaging on smartphones. The latest FLIR ONE is FLIR’s most affordable 

smartphone thermal camera, while the first edition FLIR ONE Pro is the most advanced FLIR 

ONE to date. Like their predecessors, both new FLIR ONEs come equipped with a thermal and 

a high-definition visible camera. www.flir.com/FLIRONE 


S & 

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SAFETYWORKS & Solutions Ltd 

...the complete fall protection & access providers 

Double gantry and single 4m ladder 

Easyguard free standing handrails - standard galvanised finish 

Handrails Lifelines Ladders 

Flat roof security with free 

standing handrails 

Easyguard free standing handrails 

- powder coated black 

Suitable F for roof perimeters 

or the designation of access 

ways for both retrofit and 

new build projects. Available 

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• Easyguard Handrail system 

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handrail. 

• Easyguard II - clamp-on 

handrail system for modern 

standing seam roofs 

• Bespoke systems also 

available 

Uniline horizontal and 

vertical wire-based fall 

restraint and fall arrest 

lifeline systems. 

Provides secure, hands-free 

access over high-level areas 

where solid barriers cannot 

be achieved. 

Lifelines are waterproof, 

chemical resistant and 

available in orange, black or 

grey. 

Access and CAT ladders for 

safe access from inside the 

building. 

Up & Over step units 

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roof top plant. 

Staircases and ships ladders 

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Steel ladders manufactured 

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HANDRAILS LIFELINES WALKWAYS FALL GUARDS FLEXIDECK DEMARKATION LADDERS STEELWORKS 

Tel: 01487 841400 

www.safetyworksandsolutions.co.uk

Opinion 

“SQUEEZING THE SMALL 

CONTRACTOR” 

The collapse of Carillion and subsequent impact on suppliers and contractors has certainly 

brought the perennial problem of poor payment practice sharply into focus. Below, Jason 

Wright, of J Wright Roofing, gives his thoughts on the out-dated practices and very real 

problems facing roofing contractors today. 

With the recent demise of Carillion and the 

usual Government and Industry reaction 

of “how could this happen?”, my 

concern is what about all the unfinished 

contracts? Could something have been done 

sooner to stop this happening? 

Now, please don’t call me a cynic, but this has 

been on the cards for years and not just over the 

past few months, and I’d say this will not be the 

last big name to go under. 

Why? I hear you ask; well I believe this is all down 

to buying contracts, cutting down on costs and 

ultimately “subbie bashing”; or even worse, not 

paying contractors and suppliers altogether. 

With Carillion the warning signs were flashing first 

last summer with a profit warning, and again in 

October. But what did the Government do? Oh, 

just hand them several more large contracts 

worth Billions, while they are still not paying the 

small contractors and suppliers. It’s a total 

disgrace and I’m probably not the only one who 

feels heads should roll for this. 

If we as a small roofing contractor had been 

flagged up as a risk to one of our Local authority 

clients, then we would not win an outside toilet to 

re-roof, let alone multi million pound contracts. 

“We soon found that 

later in the contract 

our valuations started 

being paid short each 

month” 

“This is all down to 

buying contracts, 

cutting down on costs 

and ultimately ‘subbie 

bashing’” 

Short change 

The problem we have found from brutal experience 

is that certain medium to large national contractors 

– I say contractors but in reality they have no direct 

contractors of note, just layers upon layers of site 

managers, project managers, Health & Safety 

managers, admin staff and of course a myriad of 

Quantity Surveyors (QS) whose sole job we have 

found is to invent a variety of ways to withhold 

payments or short change you at any cost. 

We have recently experienced this with a Main 

Contractor on a large contract for a well-respected 

Local Authority. Despite starting with good 

intentions and the contract going well, delivered 

on time and initial payments all good, we soon 

found that later in the contract our valuations 

started being paid short each month; not a lot at 

first, but this gradually increased into the tens of 

thousands. When our accounts queried this, the 

original QS had been moved to another project 

and you are suddenly left explaining to a new QS 

your concerns. This goes round and around until 

another QS gets involved as the previous QS has 

also been moved on. 

Speaking with other contractors it’s clear we are 

not alone. It’s almost as if they all have a mantra 

to work to and have all been schooled in the art of 

squeezing the small contractor so the Main 

Contractor can claw back extra profits. 

Any answers? 

So what is the answer? Well the Carillion effect is 

already being felt with Government, and in turn 

Local Authorities, looking at how contracts can be 

awarded better with the goal being that the small 

man at the end of the chain can be looked after 

better, as it is invariably us at the end of the chain 

who always bears the brunt of any collapse; As 

we know, it’s certainly not the Directors or middle 

management, and certainly not any QS. 

We have found that better direct relationships 

with the client can be more beneficial, but this 

also comes with costs and extra bureaucracy for 

the smaller companies such as ours, but the longterm 

benefits are tremendous; as Del Boy used to 

say “He Who Dares Wins, Rodders”... 

Roofing contractors take all the risk 

We know we are not alone in this situation and 

are fed up with some of these so called 

contractors, when in reality we as roofing 

contractors take all the risk, outlay all the initial 

costs, manage the contracts, provide the 

warranties, Building Regulation certification, and 

sign the jobs off only to then wait up to 90 days 

to be short-changed, and desperately hoping they 

don’t do a Carillion on you before the final 

account is settled. 

Contact J Wright Roofing 

0115 9717 591 

www.jwrightroofing.co.uk 


Contractor’s Day 2018 

coming soon!

Vehicle Acquisitions 

TO LEASE OR BUY A VAN: WHAT’S 

BEST FOR YOUR COMPANY? 

In this month’s Total Vehicles feature, we take a look at the various options available to 

contractors when they are looking to acquire a vehicle; it’s clear there’s no one set rule for 

all, but it’s important to do your research and find out what the best fit is for your business. 

When it comes to acquiring a vehicle, 

the route chosen is a matter of 

personal preference and, of course, 

the ability to pay. Outright purchase, lease, hire 

purchase – there is no wrong or right answer. 

So, considering that we’re talking about a key 

part of a tradesman’s business – after all, no van 

generally means no work – what are the options? 

The differences 

Before we can move on, it’s important to note the 

differences between buying and leasing a van. 

Buying 

There are some who like to own their assets 

rather than pay to use them. For them, outright 

purchase, either with cash held or a bank loan, is 

the way to go. They, however, will be responsible 

“Outright purchase 

means no contractual 

restrictions on what 

the owner can do with 

the van, either in use or 

aesthetic changes” 

for maintenance, repair of any damage and will 

take the hit on the depreciation over time of the 

vehicle. That said, once bought the van cannot 

ordinarily be taken away – owners will be free of 

any contracts or regular payments (if bought with 

cash held). 

Outright purchase means no contractual 

restrictions on what the owner can do with the 

van, either in use or aesthetic changes – such as 

wrapping or sign writing – or modifications – 

such as extra locks or racking. Also, and this may 

be important if there’s a slowdown in work, the 

owner is entirely at liberty to sell the vehicle as 

there are no contractual issues or payments to 

worry about. 

But of course, there’s a question over the cost of 

cash used to buy the van. Even though interest 

rates are low, it’s possible to get a better return 

on the cash through other investments and 

savings accounts compared to buying a 

depreciating asset such as a vehicle. 

Leasing 

By definition, leasing is radically different to 

outright purchase, as it’s a contract to use rather 

than own a vehicle in exchange for a regular, 

normally monthly, fee. And this monthly fee is the 


critical factor for some, as it means that a van 

can be acquired without the need to tie up 

working cash that can be better employed 

elsewhere. 

The cost of usage – because ownership is not a 

consideration – is spread over the term of the 

agreement; all that is needed is a good credit 

reference and the deposit which will invariably 

equate to three payments upfront. 

Most, but not all, leases include the cost of 

maintenance and servicing, as well as the cost of 

exceeding a defined mileage – but this is 

something that needs the right agreement to be 

put in place. 

But as with anything, leasing isn’t straightforward 

because some leases (termed ‘lease purchase’) 

can give the user the option to buy the vehicle at 

the end of the agreement. 

There are two options here. The first is called hire 

purchase. Here, the contract requires a deposit 

followed by monthly payments. At the end of the 

agreement, the ownership of the van transfers to 

the user. Overall the cost will be, by definition, 

higher than for a pure ‘use-only’ lease. 

Alternatively, it’s possible to sign up to a balloon 

hire purchase agreement. With these agreements, 

smaller monthly payments are made and at the 

end of the agreement the user either hands back 

the keys or makes a larger ‘balloon’ payment to 

take ownership of the vehicle. 

With both of these options, however, it’s 

important to not lose sight of the overall cost of 

acquisition which will almost certainly be higher 

than an outright purchase. 

Lastly, it’s important to remember that a leasing 

“This monthly fee is the 

critical factor for some 

as it means that a van 

can be acquired 

without the need to tie 

up working cash” 

agreement is just that – it’s an agreement to take 

a vehicle for a given amount of time in exchange 

for an agreed set of payments. Leases can be 

restrictive for those with possibly changing needs. 

Tax advantages of… 

Considering that the UK’s tax system is as clear 

as mud it’s perfectly reasonable to expect that 

buying or leasing a van follows different tax rules. 

In essence, the cost of buying a van can be set 

against the business tax bill – income tax for the 

self-employed, corporation tax for those running a 

limited company. There are different rules for 

doing this depending on the accounting process 

used by the business. The VAT on the purchase 

can be reclaimed if the van is used solely for 

business purposes. 

With leasing, as with outright purchase, the 

monthly payments can be set off against income 

or corporation tax bills. In contrast when leasing a 

van, assuming the business is VAT registered, all 

of the VAT charged can be reclaimed on the 

monthly fee. But this too only applies if the van is 

for purely business use. 

New or used? 

The next question to consider is new or used? 

Sure, a shiny new van is a thing of beauty and 

pride, but businesses shouldn’t lose sight of the 

fact that it’s a working tool and is bound to get 

mucky, scratched or dented. It’s inevitable. 

New vans come with a price premium, and for 

many it’s much better to buy a good used van 

that someone else has taken the depreciation hit 

on. And as long as time is invested in researching 

“New vans come with a 

price premium and for 

many it’s much better 

to buy a good used van 

that someone else has 

taken the depreciation 

hit on” 

vans – looking at price, reliability and running 

costs – it shouldn’t be too hard to make a saving 

here. And so long as the sales invoice notes the 

VAT paid and the seller’s VAT number, the VAT 

can be reclaimed – but again, only if the van is 

used solely for business purposes. 

But for some, buying new is the only option – they 

want the warranty and the comfort of knowing the 

history of the vehicle. The same principles to 

research apply but remember one more thing; see 

if it’s possible to time a purchase with when the 

dealership’s quarter or year-end is close. The 

pressure to hit targets will be that much greater 

and it’s entirely possible to find a dealer willing to 

sell a vehicle at almost no profit. Why? Because if 

sales targets are hit they may get a manufacturer 

bonus on everything it’s sold to others. 

“There is no perfect 

solution to acquiring a 

van as it’s all down to 

personal preference 

and views on risk and 

business performance” 

To conclude 

There is no perfect solution to acquiring a van as 

it’s all down to personal preference and views on 

risk and business performance. But no matter 

which route is taken, good advice from an 

accountant is key, because the tax rules in this 

area are too complex to consider in full here. 

Got any pictures of your first van? Tweet us 

@TotalContractorUK 


Payment Pains 

DEALING WITH THE CHALLENGE OF 

POOR PAYMENT PRACTICES 

In his regular column Simon Smith, of Bracknell Roofing, highlights the hurdles a specialist 

contractor has to clear just to get paid on time and in full. 

Alarge portion of my career in the roofing 

industry was spent in roofing material 

sales, and in my experience it’s fair to say 

in that world getting paid for goods and services 

supplied is pretty straightforward. However, in the 

world of a specialist contractor it’s a totally 

different ball-game. 

So what challenges does a specialist contractor 

face when it comes to getting paid? There are 

numerous, so below I will focus on a few key 

points. 

Payment terms 

Firstly, for many roofing contractors almost every 

sale is governed by detailed and strict contract 

terms and conditions issued by the customer, 

which are often bespoke for every project. 

Sometimes these terms and conditions mirror 

without any scaling those of other contracts in 

place further up the project chain, such as those 

issued to the principal contractor 

by the project client. In some 

cases individual project 

terms and conditions are 

also governed by an over 

arching framework 

agreement in place for a 

fixed-term. Consequently the 

acceptance of an order can be a 

very detailed and time-consuming 

affair, because every new project contract has to 

be carefully reviewed. 

Payment terms are different from contract to 

contract, so sub-contractors like us have to have 

systems in place to manage their sales ledger 

and debtor ageing bespoke for every contract or 

customer. Compounding the challenge of varying 

payment terms is the issue of application or 

billing cut-off dates required under the contract 

or by the customer. Cut-off dates are extremely 

Simon Smith is Divisional Director 

of Bracknell Roofing. Read his previous 

columns on: 

www.total-contractor.co.uk 

varied across the piece, 

ranging from mid-month to 

just after month-end, so 

we have to be on the ball to 

avoid late billing, which results 

in an extended payment timeline. 

Then there is the issue of self-billing, which 

is a process adopted by some very important 

customers in the market-place. Whilst self-billing 

systems do present both benefits and 

disadvantages to sub-contractors, it nevertheless 

requires further tailoring of business process and 

sales ledger management if payment issues are 

to be avoided. 

Validation of completed supply 

The next challenge is in completed works sign-off. 

Understandably many of our customers have 

sign-off systems in place because production is 

dealt with by one department and contract budget 

management and payments are dealt with by 

another department, so sign-off sheets are 

required to validate satisfactory completion of 

works invoiced. In principle this is a perfectly 

logical system to work with, but where it becomes 

a challenge is in the logistics of getting work 

signed-off by the right person, in time, and then 

ensuring that copy of the sign-off sheet is 

supplied to the right person or department within 

the customer’s organisation in time to meet any 

monthly cut-off deadline in place. Bearing in 

mind that in many cases the sign-off sheet has to 

be signed on site, it is no mean feat to make sure 

this part of the process of getting paid is actioned 

correctly and on time to avoid delay in payment. 


“The bodies that 

represent construction 

trades, could, should 

and must do more to 

achieve the ultimate 

goal of fair payment 

for all” 

Paperwork and communication 

This leads me onto the issue of paperwork and 

communication. After having measured our 

works, generated our application / billing 

document on time, got the works signed-off by 

the right person in time and sent the monthly 

billing pack to the customer before their cut-off 

date, there is still the issue of how and to whom 

the information is sent. Some require hard copy 

sent by post, some require electronic copy sent by 

email, some require hand delivery and some 

require a combination of these methods. So when 

you think you’ve got everything done on time, you 

still need systems in place to make sure the 

information gets to the right person or 

department, in the right format/s before the 

monthly deadline expires. And even after having 

achieved all that, when requesting payment 

certification and confirmation of payment date 

the following month or whenever the contract 

terms require post billing, on occasion we get a 

response of “I never received it”, or “it was sent 

in the wrong format”, or “this document was 

missing”, or “it wasn’t passed on to me on time”. 

Many of our customers are not unreasonable in 

these circumstances but the point remains, they 

could be if they wanted to be, so relationship is 

vital in these situations. 

Retentions 

Finally, and potentially the most challenging of all 

payment issues and practices a specialist 

contractor has to deal with, is the issue of 

contract retention. This is money held back from 

invoicing by the customer at an agreed 

percentage or sum for a period of time set-out 

under the contract, for the purpose – in theory – 

of providing a form of surety in respect of works 

defects. The period between the first retention 

deduction on a contract and final release of 

retention held is often, if not usually, measured in 

years. The longer retention is held and owed, the 

greater the risk of delayed or non-payment when 

it finally becomes due. Customer insolvency and 

spurious or incorrectly allocated defects are 

common causes behind late and non-payment. 

The issue of retentions is well documented and at 

this point I am reminded that back in 2014 NSCC 

conducted – in partnership with FMB – a 

payment survey, which involved 719 respondents 

from within the specialist contractor sector. The 

subsequent report titled “Credit where Credit isn’t 

Due”, revealed that approximately £198 million of 

retention held was overdue and approximately 

£54 million had to be written-off. NSCC has now 

moved on to become part of Build UK, which 

continues to campaign against retention as a 

vertical issue for the construction industry, with 

the aim of “implementing an industry-led 

roadmap to phase out the use of cash retentions 

in construction by 2023”. But that’s five years 

from now and may or may not happen, and I 

wonder what the retention held, overdue and 

write-off position is today, four years on from the 

NSCC/FMB survey in 2014, and after what has 

been a considerably more active period for 

specialist contractors in the meanwhile? I also 

wonder what effect the demise of Carrillion is 

having on the amount of retention having to be 

written-off this year – thankfully nothing for 

Bracknell Roofing but I sincerely feel for anyone 

legitimately owed retention that will see very little 

if any of it land in their bank account. 

Latterly 60 trade bodies across a broad spectrum 

of the supply chain have come together in support 

of the Aldous Bill to reform retentions. Hopefully 

this will result in more urgent, effective and 

definitive improvement in the rules and process 

around cash retentions, particularly where 

customer insolvency is concerned. The suggestion 

of having retention accounts held in trust seems 

a very logical solution to the insolvency issue, but 

I wonder how this might work in the event of a 

“Cut-off dates are 

varied across the 

piece, ranging from 

mid-month to just after 

month-end, so we have 

to be on the ball to 

avoid late billing” 

simple dispute as to alleged works defects or 

quantum owed? Would it make the collection 

process more or less complicated. Some food for 

thought, which hopefully the Aldous Bill might 

deal with. 

Alongside retentions is the issue of contract setoff 

clauses. These enable customers to contra 

charge live contracts with claims against legacy 

projects for alleged latent defects and so on, 

which begs the questions why is this necessary 

given the purpose of retention?, and is this a fair 

‘safety net’ or just another opportunity to pass-on 

cost fairly or otherwise? Don’t get me wrong, I can 

see the customer’s side on this issue but these 

clauses nevertheless cause more potential for 

payment dispute. 

The up-shot of all of this for Bracknell Roofing has 

resulted in significant investment of money and 

resources in developing our people, systems and 

customer base, but the job of getting paid in full and 

on time remains a constant challenge and we rise 

to that challenge every day. We may never reach the 

‘pot of gold at the end of the rainbow’, but I learned 

some extremely valuable lessons in my first few 

weeks as a roofing contractor, and I am surrounded 

by some excellent people so we are well organised 

to deal with the challenge. That said, specialist 

contractors need all the help they can get and in my 

opinion the bodies that represent construction 

trades, could, should and must do more to achieve 

the ultimate goal of fair payment for all. 

Contact Bracknell Roofing 

08705 626800 

www.bracknellroofing.com 

@BracknellUK 


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April 2018

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