ECOBuilder-Specifiers Journal spring2018

Never before have fire precautions been of
such a high profile than they are at present.
It is well publicised that “sprinklers’ save lives”. Even if they don’t put the fire out, they allow sufficient
time for occupants to escape safely – indeed they have done so in commercial and retail buildings
for well over 100 years, so perhaps it’s time for domestic dwelling construction to catch up.
Legislation passed by the Welsh Assembly some years ago
means that every domestic dwelling constructed in Wales
must have fire sprinkler protection, this requirement is now
being applied as a “Planning Condition” in many English
Councils.
The cost of such systems installed, either as part of a new
construction or refurbishment programme, need not
be prohibitive. A typical three bedroom property can
be protected for around £2,000 - the cost and physical trauma of an
uncontrolled event is incalculable.
Of the several options available to developers for sprinkler system, all require a connection to the
water mains to ensure they operate effectively.
Traditional solutions have previously required a “tank and pump” system, which whilst being
suitable for blocks of flats is somewhat wasteful in terms of land management. Alternatively a
direct feed of water supply, which relies on an internal cupboard – again taking up unnecessary
space.
Our Firebreaker system is the most recent addition to the armoury of sprinkler management
tools and is designed to offer a minimal “footprint” and a “Fireman’s Switch” for sprinkler management
systems, is compliant with all relevant Water Regulations and offers easy access for maintenance.
Firebreaker literally ticks all the boxes for a sprinkler management
system – the concept being endorsed by the Home Builders Federation.
For further information and contact details, please visit our web site
www.firebreaker.co.uk
Have you ever thought that there should be a simpler way to
replace a water service pipe other than ripping through the
floor of a property causing days of trauma, mess and
high cost involved?
The simple answer is YES there is with INSUduct®.
INSUduct® is a purpose designed product that eliminates the risk of freezing to incoming above ground water
supplies. Thermally insulated, quick and easy to install and made from 100% reprocessed materials* INSUduct
TM
delivers an environmentally friendly and cost effective solution to water pipe protection.
Simply drill a core through the wall (min. 95mm), line it with a suitable duct and insulate with SHalloduct®
product, line up INSUduct from outside the property and feed through a new water service pipe – the whole
process taking just two hours or less!
Not forgetting that water service pipes need to be insulated to a depth of 750mm below ground level, INSUduct®
provides the total package to ensure compliance with Water Regulations.
For situations where water pipes enter at first floor level or higher, INSUduct® offers
the facility to “ladder” to whatever height is required.
Whilst INSUduct® is on the “approved list” of most water companies, it should
be noted that amending a water service pipe (with or without INSUduct) is a
notifiable event and your water company should be advised in writing (using
our downloadable documentation as required) of any proposal. Permission to
proceed should not be held up, and deemed to have been granted if no response
is received from the water company after ten working days.
Available through multiple merchant outlets including mail order, all details of
which are available through our web site www.groundbreaker.co.uk/INSUduct
As always, for further information, please contact us directly.