August 2018

AUGUST 2018 

Flat roof details 

Asbestos Advice 

Contractor’s Q’s 

Marketing mix 

FEATURES 

• CLEARED FOR TAKE-OFF: 

TIPS & ADVICE FOR DRONE USE 

• FAKING IT: WOULD YOU 

RECOGNISE COUNTERFEIT PPE? 

• CLEAN SLATE: TOP TIPS FOR 

YOUR SLATE PROJECT 

>>> • LATEST NEWS • OPINIONS • ADVICE • PRODUCT UPDATES • TRAINING • >>>

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Editor’s Comment 

MATT DOWNS 

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR 

MATTDOWNS@MEDIA-NOW.CO.UK 

COVER PIC: 

COURTESY OF MARLEY ETERNIT 

Most industries suffer from traders looking to make quick money 

from cheap, imitation goods. Whether it be an imitation watch, the 

latest bag, trainers, or jeans, if the original is popular and 

expensive, the chances are someone somewhere is producing a 

version of it for a fraction of the price. 

Despite it being illegal and the proceeds often funding organised crime, 

those who purchase an imitation watch or fashion item do so knowing 

it will be an inferior version that won’t last or perform to the same 

standards as the original – but ultimately it won’t harm them. But can 

the same be said if it’s an electrical item or even worse, counterfeit 

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)? Counterfeit PPE is a very real 

problem on construction sites throughout the UK, and in his article on 

p.20, Gary Walpole of the NFRC addresses the issue and outlines ways 

to ensure you can spot such equipment and ensure your PPE performs 

to the right standards. As Gary explains, it’s not an area where you 

should look to make savings. 

Elsewhere in this issue, Ian Hollingworth looks at the implications for 

sub-contractors after the High Court found that a roofing firm that 

caused a fire at a school in London was not protected by a project 

policy (p.24); Andy King talks difficult customers and why he feels a 

grasp of contract law is crucial for contractors (p.26); John Mercer 

discusses the implications for contractors following the latest 

amendments to BS: 5534 (p.32); and we have the latest news and 

updates from the roofing, cladding and insulation sectors. 

Enjoy the issue! 

NEW 

A PRIC 

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

£T 

Matt 

LOW PRICE 

Above: Andy Rowlands hand-cut close to 60,000 Acme double camber clay 

plain tiles for the roof at Quintain House. We hear his tips for clay roofs on p.44 

FOLLOW US @TOTCONTRACTORUK 

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AUGUST 2018 TC 3

Contents 

FROM THE COVER 

20 FAKING IT 

With Counterfeit PPE hitting sites around the 

UK, would you be able tell the real from fake? 

22 CLEARED FOR TAKE-OFF 

Drones have a number of uses on sites, but 

there are rules that need to be followed 

36 CLEAN SLATE 

Beware the consequences if you look to save 

time by not grading and sorting your slate 

FREE Z-CARD! 

From Yeoman Rainguard 

30 

FEATURES 

24 INSURANCE FOCUS 

Ian Hollingworth explains why contractors need to 

check that they are covered through project policies 

44 

30 THE APPRENTICE SHOW 

Roofing’s in good hands if the BMI Group Apprentice of 

the Year awards is any sort of barometer 

32 STANDARD BEARER 

John Mercer explains what roofers really need to know 

following the amendments to BS: 5534 

44 CUT TO THE CHASE 

After hand-cutting 60,000 clay plain tiles for a project, 

Andy Rowlands gives his tips for the perfect clay roof 

52 FALL GUYS 

Cut to falls can be expensive, Daniel Bosworth explains 

how he feels you can achieve affordability 

62 TALKING TORQUE 

Brian Mack discusses the installation issues when 

looking to achieve the right fastener torque for projects 

4 TC AUGUST 2018

REGULARS 

16 CONTRACT TALK 

Stuart Base explains how to be smart with your 

marketing in a competitive industry 

18 AN INSPECTOR CALLS 

The Inspector explains how when it comes to 

flat roofs, the devil really is in the detail 

26 CONTRACTOR’S Q’S 

Andy King talks difficult customers, unrealistic 

project time-lines and so much more... 

70 TOTAL VEHICLES 

Whether you’re sign writing or wrapping your 

van, make sure you project the right image 

INDUSTRY NEWS 

06 CONTRACTOR’S DAY 

Register now for Contractor’s Day! Plus a number of 

new big names have joined the list of exciting exhibitors 

08 LONG LEAD-TIMES 

Delays of up to 4-5 weeks have been reported on mineral 

wool insulation products 

08 

SECTIONS 

WWW.TOTAL-CONTRACTOR.CO.UK 

32 

TOTAL 

ROOFING 

62 TOTAL 

CLADDING 

66 TOTAL 

INSULATION 

36 


Industry News 

FRAGILE ROOF FALLS 

HIGH ON SAFETY LIST 

The Building Safety Group (BSG) has 

reported a 13% rise in the number of 

‘Working at Height’ safety breaches 

recorded on construction sites. The 

increase is based on 10,000 site 

inspections conducted during the first six 

months of 2018, comparing Q1 with Q2. 

BSG’s figure is also a reflection of the steep 

increase in fatalities resulting from workers 

falling from height. Statistics published by 

the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) show 

there were 35 ‘falling from height’ related 

deaths in 2017/18, up 40% compared to the 

previous year. Falls through fragile surfaces – 

particularly fibre cement roofs and 

rooflights – are said to account for the 

majority all ‘fall from height’ fatal injuries in 

the construction industry. Workers undertaking 

roof work and building maintenance can die or 

be permanently disabled when they fall through 

fragile surfaces. 

Paul Kimpton, Managing Director at the 

Building Safety Group, commented: 

“Employers have a legal duty to ensure that 

the ‘Work at Height Regulations 2005’ are 

implemented and that all activity is properly 

supervised and carried out by people who are 

competent. They are also responsible for 

ensuring that fall protection systems for 

Working at Height are regularly inspected, 

particularly when working in hazardous 

environments.” 

REGISTER NOW FOR CONTRACTOR’S DAY! 

Registration is now open for Contractor’s Day, into this and perhaps overcome issues on a 

the new one-day exhibition and conference project, find the right product, material or tool for 

launched by the NFRC and Total Contractor a certain job, or network and make positive 

magazine, which will be held at Twickenham relationships for the future.” 

Stadium on 30th November 2018. 

Matt Downs, Editorial Director of Total Contractor, 

Andy Dunn, Publishing Director at Total Contractor continued: “Time is precious for roofing 

magazine, explained: “Following the launch of the contractors and for many finding the time to 

website, contractors can now register for their source new products and keep up to date with the 

free tickets to Contractor’s Day. The event is a latest developments whilst dealing with work 

great opportunity for contractors to see more than commitments can be difficult. That’s why 

60 of the leading manufacturers, suppliers and Contractor’s Day has brought together the leading 

Associations from the roofing, cladding and manufacturers, suppliers and trade associations 

insulation sectors in one fantastic venue. 

for one day only in a great venue so visitors can 

access them all in one morning or afternoon.” 

“Visitors will also have the opportunity to listen to 

and take part in interesting debates and seminars, Contractor’s Day recently announced SIG Roofing 

get an exclusive update on the NFRC’s long-term as Knowledge Partner, Marley Eternit as Event 

accreditation push for the roofing sector, plus get Supporter and BMI Group as Skill Zone Partner, as 

involved with the BMI Group Skill Zone.” 

well as a number of new exhibitors including 

Carlisle Construction Materials, Danosa UK, 

Andy continued: “The demand for this type of 

Kingspan Group, Construction Materials Online, 

event within the roofing and cladding sector has 

Rockwool Group, SIGA Slate, Permavent, 

been highlighted by the speed that the stands 

Whitesales, Yeoman Rainguard, the Single Ply 

have sold and the number and quality of 

Roofing Association, the Lead Sheet Training 

exhibitors and show supporters we have onboard. 

Association and the Liquid Roofing and 

All these leading names from the roofing and 

Waterproofing Association. 

cladding sectors will be bringing their latest 

products and innovations alongside their knowhow 

and expertise, and visitors will be able to tap 

Find out more and register to visit at: 

www.contractorsday.co.uk 

COMPANIES FINED AFTER WORKER FALL 

Two companies have been fined more than half a Regulation 13(1) of the Construction (Design and 

million pounds after a site worker lost the use of Management) Regulations 2015 and was fined 

his legs following an incident in London. 

£270,000 and ordered to pay £7,025.98 in costs. 

Paul added: “Critically, falls from height are 

still one of the most common causes of 

injuries to employees, accounting for a large 

number of work-place deaths. So employers 

must of course take their responsibilities very 

seriously, not least because of the potential 

harm to workers but also because of the risk 

to the business as well as the number of 

working days lost.” 

Westminster Magistrates’ Court heard how, on 

5th November 2015, Mr Marcel Păduraru, a 

Romanian construction worker, fell onto and then 

through a fragile plastic skylight into a basement 

over three metres below. He suffered a severed 

spine and will not regain the use of his legs. He 

was 30 years old at the time of the incident. 

Grangewood Builders Limited of Lionel Road, 

Canvey Island, Essex pleaded guilty to breaching 

Trenchco Limited of Clewer Crescent, Harrow 

Weald, Middlesex pleaded guilty to breaching 

Regulation 15(2) of the Construction (Design and 

Management) Regulations 2015 and was fined 

£270,000 and ordered to pay £7,025.98 in costs. 

HSE inspector Andrew Verrall-Withers commented: 

“The risks relating to fragile skylights being fallen 

through and the simple solutions to avoid this are 

well known.” 


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DELIVERED TO YOU BY

Industry News 

LONG LEAD-TIMES 

Contractors are being warned of delays in 

delivery times of up to 4-5 weeks compared 

to the usual 3-5 days for popular mineral 

wool products used to insulate buildings. 

Despite UK manufacturers running production 

lines at full capacity around the clock, 

Construction Materials Online (CMO) says the 

industry is struggling to keep up with growing 

demand for glass and mineral wool products. 

Mineral wool and glass wool insulation is 

chosen for its acoustic and thermal quality. 

However, popular brands are reportedly 

dealing with increased demand which is 

causing long delays. Duncan Voice, Store 

Manager at Insulation Superstore, an online 

brand of Construction Materials Online 

(CMO), says this calls for a change of 

approach: “The industry needs to know the 

serious impact of these delays and be 

prepared for the wait. They need to plan 

ahead and buy in advance, or they need to 

have a ‘plan B’. 

“We are always upfront and honest about the 

extended delivery lead-times and do 

everything we can to deal with customers’ 

disappointment. But some orders have been 

cancelled as project managers are forced to 

go back to the drawing board. We are here to 

help problem solve, so when customers are 

‘up against it’, in terms of time and budget, 

we’re able to advise alternative products we 

can get to them much quicker. 

“Luckily, there are alternatives that can be on 

site within days, have better performance 

and are easier to install, and consumers are 

happy with the results too. We’re seeing an 

upsurge in sales of sheep wool products, 

which although slightly higher in price, have 

better thermal and acoustic performance. 

Contractors are finding the price is offset by 

avoiding costly delays on site.” 

LCB ROOFERS WIN SKILLBUILD REGIONALS 

Leeds College of Building is celebrating after 11 

of its students won medals in the regional 

competitions of SkillBuild 2018 including Gold, 

Silver and bronze in the Roofing category for Joe 

Turner, Jay Webster and Kieran Langhan 

respectively. Delivered by the CITB, SkillBuild is 

the largest multi-trade competition in the UK for Leeds College of Building students with their awards. 

construction trainees and apprentices. 

whether any of the top-scoring competitors will 

be selected for the three-day UK SkillBuild 

The College attained a total of four gold, six 

National Final, which is held at the NEC 

silvers, and one bronze medal, seeing off 

Birmingham from 16-18 November. Winners may 

competition from hundreds of other construction 

then gain the opportunity to represent the UK in 

students from colleges across the UK: 

the international skills competitions EuroSkills 

Roofing: Joe Turner (Gold), Jay Webster (Silver), and WorldSkills. 

Kieran Langhan (Bronze) 

Mark Sims, Lecturer at Leeds College of Building, 

Carpentry: James Hattersley (Silver, Senior said: “We are so pleased with this year’s results. 

category) 

All of our students worked so hard and 

represented the college impeccably. They really 

Bricklaying: Luke Kerrigan (Silver, New Entrant 

did us proud! These results would not have been 

category), Tim Smith (Silver, Senior category) 

possible if it wasn’t for the dedication of each 

Plastering: Luke Palmer (Gold, Senior category), competitor and the staff who trained our students 

Ryan Lill (Silver, New Entrant category) 

to these high standards. 

Dry Lining: Jake Emery (Gold), Carla Dibb (Silver) “A special mention goes to the roof slating and 

tiling students who did particularly well, winning 

Wall & Floor Tiling: Callum Pearson (Gold, 

all of the top three places in their category, and 

Senior category) 

the wall and floor tiling students also took the top 

Students are now awaiting the decision as to two places in their category.” 

THE HEART OF THE MATTER FOR SR TIMBER 

SR Timber is to partner with the British Heart coordinate its fundraising activities for the 

Foundation (BHF) to raise much-needed funds charity, which holds poignant significance for 

for the charity, which is the biggest independent staff. 

funder of cardiovascular research in the UK. 

“Actively supporting charities has become an 

The company is keen to develop a closer, longerterm 

relationship with the charity, having 

we’ve got a good track record of raising large 

important part of the fabric of SR Timber, and 

previously raised more than £5,000 in 2016 after sums of money,” said Steve. 

two of its team climbed Mount Kilimanjaro. 

SR Timber’s Trading Director Shaun Revill 

The partnership is a move away from one-off, explained: “I’m really proud of the team for 

flagship fundraising events to a more consistent coming together to support the BHF, and 

approach throughout the year. SR Timber has everyone’s excited about what we can do in the 

appointed Steve Hill to the role of Heart Monitor to coming months.” 


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Industry News 

“RADICAL OVERHAUL 

REQUIRED” 

Following the announcement of the £420m 

Construction Sector Deal to boost 

construction through innovative 

technologies and modern construction 

methods, a new report has cautioned that 

a radical overhaul of the sector is needed 

or the UK will struggle to meet its housing 

and infrastructure needs. 

In a recent report, Off-site Manufacture for 

construction: building for change, the House of 

Lords Science and Technology Committee says 

that off-site manufacture (OSM) can help to 

increase productivity in the construction sector 

while reducing labour demands, improving the 

quality and efficiency of buildings, and reducing 

the environmental impacts associated with 

traditional construction. 

The Committee heard evidence that if the 

government is to achieve its aim of building 

300,000 houses a year by 2020, OSM would be 

the only way to meet this target, and that 

traditional construction methods do not have 

the capacity to build enough homes. The 

committee stated the Government must set out 

what conditions it will attach to the extra 

financial support for housing to drive the uptake 

of OSM and other innovative technologies. 

Lord Patel, Chairman of the Committee, said: 

“There are clear and tangible benefits from offsite 

manufacture for construction which make 

a compelling case for its widespread use. We 

heard evidence that OSM could increase 

productivity in the sector by up to 70%. The 

construction sector’s business models are no 

longer appropriate and are not supporting the 

UK’s urgent need for new homes and 

infrastructure. The construction sector needs to 

build more trust and create partnerships so 

that companies can work together to improve 

the uptake of off-site manufacture, and the 

CLC should provide the necessary leadership.” 

CHECK YOUR PHONE USAGE ON SITE 

A survey by Deloitte has revealed that people in 

the UK have never been more addicted to their 

smartphones. 

The survey of 4,150 16-75 year-olds conducted 

in 2017 found that 38% admitted to using their 

smartphone too much, rising to half of all 16-24- 

year-olds. Habbits such as checking apps in the 

hour before we go to sleep (79% of respondents 

admitted to doing this) or within 15 minutes of 

waking up (55%); or the fact that over a third 

check their phone in the middle of the night show 

just how dependent we are on our mobile phones 

in this digital age. 

Other surveys have shown that IPhone users 

unlock their phones an average of 80 times per 

day (Business Insider 2017) which means that in 

an average day of usage, IPhone users check 

their phones six to seven times per hour, or once 

every ten minutes. These staggering numbers 

highlight how mobile phone usage has taken over 

our lives, but if you are checking your phone when 

working in a shop or an office, perhaps at worst 

your work output is affected, but the 

consequences could be very different if working 

on scaffolding or trying to navigate a construction 

site or roof. 

With this in mind, Total Contractor contacted Gary 

Walpole, Technical and Safety Officer at the 

Roofers have been warned to take extra care 

on the roads due to concerns their bad van 

driving could be hurting business. 

Experts at LeaseVan.co.uk, one of the UK’s leading 

suppliers of vans to tradesmen and women, say 

bad driving could be putting people off dealing 

with a company. They warned customers to ensure 

vans are driven courteously and that speed limits 

and other road users are respected at all times. 

A spokesman for LeaseVan.co.uk said: “Van 

Further reading: http://www.total-contractor.co.uk/your-callare-the-days-of-smartphones-on-site-numbered/ 

NFRC, to find out if there was any set guidance on 

mobile phone usage on site. Gary explained: 

“There isn’t any particular guidance or policy 

regarding the use of mobile phones on 

construction sites, but you are correct in that they 

do pose an increasing risk, especially when 

working at height – operatives need to be aware 

of their environment and using a mobile phone 

greatly reduces that awareness. 

“Most main contractors have banned the use of 

mobile phones, except in designated safe zones. 

These sites tend to have a zero tolerance to 

phone usage and operatives caught are either 

given a warning or removed from site. The 

difficulty is policing mobile phone usage in the 

short-term repair and domestic markets.” 

So the next time you feel the urge to check your 

phone or make a call, make sure it is in a 

designated safe zone, or better still, wait until 

you’re away from site. 

ROOFERS, HOW’S YOUR DRIVING? 

drivers need to realise that each and every time 

they get behind the wheel they are an 

ambassador for their company. If they then tear 

about cutting people up, racing through traffic 

lights on amber and failing to stop at zebra 

crossings they are going to create a very bad 

impression for their company with other road 

users and the general public. Branded vans can 

be very powerful mobile adverts for a firm but if 

they are poorly driven they could actually be 

costing sales.” 


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Industry News 

NORTHERN LIGHTS SHINE BRIGHT AT APPRENTICE AWARD FINALS! 

Jay Webster and Kieran Forster, two apprentices 

from the north of England, have been crowned 

Redland and Icopal Apprentices of the Year 2018 

respectively, after the BMI-backed competition 

culminated in two days of intense scrutiny from 

a panel of industry-leading figures. 

At a special gala dinner, the victors received a 

£1,000 cash prize for each of them to invest in 

their future, a handsome trophy for the 

mantelpiece plus a goody bag of high-quality 

roofing tools and materials. They are also entitled 

to support from the two industry brand leaders at 

BMI’s National Training Centre. 

Speaking just after the prize-giving (June 27th), 

Redland Apprentice of the Year Jay Webster, who 

attends Leeds College of Building and works for 

Yorkshire Heritage Roofing; said: “Words can’t 

really describe how I feel and I still can’t believe it 

to be honest. I became more confident as the 

competition went on but to actually win it tells me 

I’m better than I thought I was.” 

Kieran Forster, the Icopal Apprentice of the Year, 

an attendee at Newcastle College and employed 

by Stanley-based Hodgson Sayers, admitted it all 

came as a bit of a surprise: “Pure shock when I 

heard my name announced and I’m still in shock. 

I can’t believe it’s actually happened. There were 

guys there with more experience than me so to 

win it is simply amazing!” 

So tightly fought were the two competitions that 

the judges felt that each category deserved a 

highly commended award. On the Redland side, 

ex-soldier Tom Thompson, who works for AL King 

Roofing and studies at South West Training Group, 

received the accolade, while for Icopal it was Joe 

Burgess, a former waiter, who came out with the 

memorable phrase during his presentation: “I 

gave up a job to go into a career”, when talking 

about his move into roofing. Joe works for 

Waveney District Council and is enrolled at 

Eastern Region Roof Training Group. 

Mat Woodyatt, BMI Technical Training Manager, 

commented: “This has been a fantastic event – 

the first time we have held a competition to find 

the best in both roofing disciplines: pitched and 

flat. All 18 contestants deserve huge credit for 

their hard work and achievements over the last 48 

hours. I know the judges looked long and hard at 

the scoring, deliberated at length about what 

marks to award and genuinely found it difficult to 

separate participants. However, in the end there 

can only be two winners, so heartfelt 

congratulations to Jay and Kieran. Well done all!” 

See p.30 for more on the Apprentice of the Year. 

SPRA’S ‘MOST COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE’ 

The Single Ply Roofing 

Association has announced 

the release of its latest 

Design Guide. Available to 

download free from the 

SPRA website, this 

detailed and updated 

guide is said to be a 

fantastic resource 

developed to support the 

whole of the single ply 

roofing industry from 

design and specification, SPRA’s new Single Ply Design Guide. 

Component Quality Standards 

which have in many cases 

been developed with partner 

organisations. Also included is 

the SPRA Homeowner Guide 

and SPRA Damage Protection 

guidance which was created 

last year, along with a useful 

Toolbox talk section to 

encourage education onsite 

and reduce post-installation 

issues. Perhaps something of 

particular interest in the 

to installation and aftercare. 

Cathie Clarke, SPRA CEO, explained: “This is the 

most comprehensive guide on single ply roofing 

that SPRA has ever produced. It has been created 

by the SPRA Technical Committee for the benefit 

of the industry and I would like to thank all 

members for their hard work and contribution to 

the sector. Complete with new Welding Guidance, 

the SPRA Design Guide includes a range of 

current climate is the SPRA Membrane Product 

Substitution Checklist.” 

SPRA says all members have the opportunity to 

be involved with the SPRA Technical Committee – 

“the beating heart of SPRA”. For more 

information, email enquiries@spra.co.uk. 

Interested in becoming a member? Full details 

can be found at www.spra.co.uk, or you can 

email: membership@spra.co.uk. 

TRADE CLUB BENEFITS 

SIG Roofing is celebrating a key milestone 

for its TRADE CLUB loyalty programme after 

Roofcare South West became the 2,000th 

company to benefit from the scheme. 

SIG Roofing’s TRADE CLUB was introduced 

to help and reward roofing contractors 

across the UK, giving them the opportunity 

to earn points and secure discounts by 

purchasing roofing products from any of 

SIG Roofing’s 120+ branches nationwide. 

Stuart Base, Marketing Director for SIG 

Roofing, said: “We introduced our TRADE 

CLUB programme to reward our 

customers for their ongoing loyalty and to 

enhance their customer experience. This 

is all about giving something back. 

Loyalty cards can be used at any of our 

branches and with access to the largest 

network in the UK, it means contractors 

can earn points wherever they are 

working across the country.” 


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Industry News 

BUILD SHOW GROWS 

The Build Show, sponsored by Easy-Trim, 

says it is aiming to give roofers the most 

well-informed, forward-looking 

predictions, innovations and insights they 

need as part of UK Construction Week 

(UKCW), which returns to the NEC from 9th 

to 11th October this year. 

Focusing on UKCW’s theme for 2018 – the 

‘Future of Construction’ – the organisers of 

Build Show say it will feature the latest 

advancements in building products, policy 

and projects, all designed to help roofers stay 

up-to-date and one step ahead of their 

competitors. 

Exhibitors include: Aggregate Industries, 

Combilift, Concrete Centre, Containex, Easy 

Trim Roofing and Construction, Finning Cat, 

Forticrete, G&B North West, Gripple, Hikoki, 

HP, Karcher, KwikFit, OM Safety Solutions, 

Portakabin, Soprema, SPSenvirowall, Styrene 

Packaging & Insulation, Trade Point, Trimaco, 

and Xella. 

Nathan Garnett, UKCW event director, said: 

“For most people working in the trades, 

finding the time to keep up to date with the 

latest products and sourcing the best deals 

while juggling work commitments feels 

impossible. That’s why the Build Show is 

always an unmissable event for specialist 

trades and general builders. It brings the 

latest products, ideas and manufacturers to 

one place and is broken down into specific 

sections to make the search easier. 

POST-BREXIT VISA RULES: CLARITY NEEDED 

Responding to the release of 

need is that access to skilled EU 

the Government's Brexit White 

workers will not be drastically 

Paper, the FMB has stressed the 

cut-off. We hope this will follow 

need for certainty and stability, 

closely after the publication of the 

and called on the Government 

Migration Advisory Committee 

to clarify its approach to 

report in September.” 

migrant workers as soon as 

Berry concluded: “The UK 

possible. 

construction sector is more reliant 

Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the 

than average on migrant workers 

FMB, said: “Despite some 

from Europe – at present, 9% of 

Brian Berry, FMB Chief Executive. 

pessimistic predictions, we’ve yet 

our construction workers are from 

to see any sign of the Brexit process having a the EU. In London this rises to nearly one third. 

seriously negative impact on the wider economy. Already, even with access to EU labour, the 

However, for this to continue as we approach this industry is facing an acute skills crisis. 

critical phase of the process, we now need to 

“The shortage of skilled workers is fast rising up 

minimise the risk of uncertainty clouding people’s 

the list of barriers to SME builders in their quest 

decision-making and spending plans and starting 

to grow and build more of the homes the UK so 

to feed through into the real economy. For most 

desperately needs. 

businesses, the Government’s White Paper will be 

judged on whether it manages to achieve this. “Without access to EU workers, there is a real 

One area in which we now need greater clarity is possibility that skills shortages will further 

over the shape of post-Brexit migration policy. For intensify. This will threaten the delivery of new 

the many construction SMEs who are currently housing and have a knock-on effect on growth 

facing severe skills shortages, the certainty they across the wider economy.” 

NEW GROUP MD APPOINTED AT IKO PLC 

Global roofing, waterproofing and insulation I am pleased to work alongside so many great 

manufacturer IKO PLC has appointed Anthony people in the business.” 

Carlyle as its new Group Managing Director. 

Anthony moves from his position as MD of IKO 

Polymeric where he has spent more than 13 

years, having started the division in 2005. 

Jamie Govier, Managing Director of Easy-Trim 

Roofing and Construction Products, said: 

“This year the Easy-Trim stand will take a 

glimpse into the future of British 

manufacturing. We have come a long way, yet 

our journey has just begun. Join us on stand 

B610 to find out more.” 

The Polymeric business has enjoyed significant 

growth during this time, and the IKO Group is 

confident he will replicate this in his new role. 

He started the new position on July 2nd. 

Anthony explained: “I’m excited to become Group 

Managing Director and am looking forward to this 

great new opportunity and the challenges that lay 

ahead. IKO is a fantastic family-run company and 

Anthony Carlyle, Group Managing Director, IKO PLC. 


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Contract Talk 

PERFECT PRESENTATIONAL SKILLS 

Being a roofing contractor isn’t just about getting the job done, it’s about how you portray 

yourself to your customers too. With such a competitive industry, it’s key to be smart with 

your marketing to achieve the best for your business. Here, Stuart Base, Marketing Director 

at SIG Roofing, outlines how you can do just that. 

Marketing your business effectively may 

come very naturally to some, but for 

roofers it may not be second nature. 

However, the impact that smart marketing has on 

roofing businesses can make a huge difference to 

its success. From spreading the word to 

increasing your online presence, these simple 

steps will not only help to get a better 

understanding of your key customers and their 

needs, but also your competition and what you’re 

up against. 

Spread the word 

It might sound obvious, but you’d be surprised at 

how many roofers in the industry don’t shout 

enough about their graft. Word-of-mouth 

advertising is a key player in every business and 

there are many ways that you can get other people, 

namely your customers, talking about you too. 

Exceeding customer expectations, becoming a 

more personable and friendly business or carrying 

out a generous act that gets people talking are all 

methods of triggering word-of-mouth advertising; 

one happy customer will inevitably steer a 

number of new ones your way. Generally, people 

almost always take recommendations from family 

and friends into consideration, so any steps taken 

to increase referrals could be massively 

rewarding for your business. 

If you’re in a position to, another strategy to 

consider implementing is to offer discounts to 

those who do spread the word about you. Money 

saved equals happy customers! 

Get online 

In this day and age, it’s the norm to ask Google 

absolutely any question that springs to mind. How 

to get from A to B? Google; nearest café that sells 

“You’d be surprised at 

how many roofers in 

the industry don’t shout 

enough about their 

graft” 

bacon butties? Google; local roofing business? 

Google! It’s for this reason that it’s crucial to 

ensure you’ve claimed your spot as a Google 

Business, which can be done within just a couple 

of minutes here: 

(https://www.google.com/business/). This means 

that when people Google search your business, or 

generally search for a local roofer in the area, 

your business will instantly appear in the results, 

consequently generating more customer leads 

and interest. 

Saying that, it’s no good having your business up 

on Google and no website to direct customers to. 

Get a valuable and professional website up and 

running as soon as possible, ensuring it includes 

all the information a customer would need and 

also as a tool to communicate with both existing 

and new customers; the value of this is 

immeasurable. 

Be social 

Let’s face it, the power that social media holds 

over people today is undeniable. It’s for this 

reason that as a business you need to immerse 

yourself in the online world. Utilising platforms 

such as Facebook and Twitter can really help 

make your business become more personable, 

approachable, and makes for an easy way of 

customers reaching out to you. Even better, you’re 

free to be as creative as you like, so have some 

fun with it! 

It’s important to consider that as much as 

customers are given the opportunity to praise 

your business publicly, you’ll also be giving them 

the chance to slate it which you’ll need to be 

prepared for. However, should a scenario like this 

occur, it’s important to resolve any issues and 

deal with customers quickly and in a respectable, 

non-argumentative manner to maintain a positive 

and professional reputation. 

Although it’s a scary concept for some, not taking 

advantage of social media can ultimately lead to 

some negative outcomes for your business, so 

it’s worthwhile to get on board. 

Keep it traditional 

Aside from the shiny world of social media, it’s 

also essential to carry out some basic yet 

efficient practices, too. Networking within your 

local area for one is worth considering – focus on 

building relationships not just with your target 

market, but perhaps other small businesses to 

which you could lean on one another for support. 

Get some attractive posters advertising your 

business up in your local café, or speak to your 

local parish about being included in their 

newsletters to help spread the word. It’s the 

simple things that are sometimes most effective! 

Keep track 

Finally, keep a concise, simple database of all 

your customers, past, present and future 

prospects. This way you’ll be able to easily keep 

in touch and communicate with them. 

Contact SIG Roofing 

0845 612 4304 

www.sigroofing.co.uk 

@SIGRoofing 


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

An Inspector Calls 

IT’S ALL IN THE DETAILS... 

In ‘An Inspector Calls’, our regular monthly column, 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 goes into detail. 

It is often claimed that the devil is in the 

detail, and when it comes to flat roofing this 

idiom is very fitting indeed. 

Every flat roof will have some form of detail 

whether that be a drip edge, a watercheck, a 

parapet or a penetration etc., and it is at these 

details where both the manufacturer and the 

installing contractor must pay special attention to 

ensure the project is watertight and compliant 

with current legislation. 

On any flat roof the detail work will always require 

the most thought and consideration to ensure it is 

waterproofed robustly and to ensure it conforms 

with British Standards. This is particularly difficult 

in the refurbishment market as existing projects 

don’t always allow or facilitate compliance without 

huge expense and modification. It is therefore 

essential that the contractor seeks guidance from 

the manufacturer if a detail is difficult or bespoke 

in nature, or if a proposal in the specification does 

not comply with codes of practice when applied to 

the situation at hand. 

Arguably, the most relevant British Standard in 

flat roofing is BS 6229:2003 – ‘Flat Roofs with 

Continuously Supported Coverings’ and it would 

be prudent for any roofing contractor to 

familiarise themselves with this document. From 

a manufacturer’s perspective, this Standard 

influences most of the standard details it 

produces and stipulates the minimum 

requirements for flat roofs (and their associated 

details) across Great Britain. 

Common shortfalls include: 

1. Insufficient upstand heights (min 150mm). 

2. Incorrect method of termination (i.e dressing the 

The field membrane has been dressed up the upstand in one 

single continuous piece, which is against codes of practice. 

The upstand should be detailed separately with fully bonded 

membranes that should be brought a minimum 150mm onto 

the field membrane. 

detail membrane straight into the brickwork chase). 

3. Using field membranes at upstands / details 

(i.e using partially bonded membranes when they 

should be fully bonded). 

4. Taking the field membrane up the upstand. 

If the above items are left unaddressed, they may 

be omitted from the waterproofing guarantee or 

the entire project itself may be condemned if the 

work has not been installed in-line with the 

recommendations of the manufacturer or 

legislation. This can leave the client at a 

significant loss which is not ideal for any party 

involved in the contract. As a consequence, it 

could affect future working relationships and the 

opportunity for future business, so it is important 

all parties work together at the earliest stage 

possible to reduce these situations from occurring. 

Issues that arise at design stage are often 

overcome more easily as recommendations and 

guidance can be given before the detail or building 

has been constructed. When it is a refurbishment 

scenario however, manufacturers are limited in 

flexibility and may not guarantee a detail that does 

not confirm with codes of practice. It is also 

important to check the relevant product literature 

from the manufacturer as the individual product 

The upstand membrane has not been terminated correctly 

underneath the cill. A cover flashing or termination bar 

should have been installed, however the membrane was 

simply left un-terminated which over time has delaminated 

from the upstand creating a path for water ingress. 

may have unique application guidance associated 

to it too. Failing to install the product correctly 

could also lead to a restricted guarantee. 

When undertaking detail work, the contractor 

should also be mindful that the product is 

appropriate to the situation encountered. The 

approach and product used for the field area may 

be inappropriate for application on the adjacent 

detail, so again it is advised the manufacturer is 

contacted to advise accordingly. The previous 

article on combustible substrates should also be 

echoed here, as a torch-applied membrane would 

not be suitable on a timber upstand or a PVC 

rooflight kerb, and therefore an alternative 

approach will be required. 

It is essential that the contractor does not 

assume what that approach will be to ensure an 

unobstructed guarantee can be issued for the 

project, and to demonstrate it is in fact God that 

is in the details as those little things, the tiny 

minutia of detail, that ultimately make successful 

products and successful projects. 

Contact Icopal’s Technical Team 

0161 865 4444 

www.icopal.co.uk 

@Icopal_UK 


For fu 

rther inf ormation 

or a hire quotation call 

01858 410372 


NFRC Technical Talk 

COUNTERFEIT PPE: CUT CORNERS 

AND YOU COULD PAY THE PRICE 

By Gary Walpole, NFRC Technical Officer. 

Go on holiday at any time of the year and 

the chances are you’ll come across 

knock-off designer goods at some point – 

some of you may have even saved yourself a few 

pounds getting an imitation watch, shirt or bag. 

That’s why the trade in fake fashion is estimated 

to be worth $450bn – and still growing. 

Unfortunately, the same is true for PPE products, 

which are either imitating real safety equipment 

brands or haven’t gone through the tests to be 

certified as safe under European Standards. 

Although it’s illegal and puts money in the pocket 

of organised criminals, 

buying an imitation designer 

hat is unlikely to harm you, 

but clearly that’s a 

possibility if you buy a faulty 

safety helmet. And if putting 

yourself or your employees in 

danger isn’t bad enough, you could 

also be prosecuted. 

The trouble is, even if you’re one of the majority 

who is not out to save costs and cut corners on 

safety, spotting counterfeit PPE can be difficult 

Gary Walpole. NFRC Technical Officer 

unless you know what to 

look out for. Luckily, all PPE 

products must come with a 

CE (Conformité Européenne) 

mark and certificate that tell 

you they have passed all the tests 

and are safe to use – so if the kit doesn’t 

have the CE stamp of approval, stay clear. Of 

course, many counterfeiters will attempt to create 

fake CE certificates, but thankfully they are the 

hardest things to forge. 

10 

things to look out for on CE labels: 

Conclusion 

If you’re buying expensive PPE kit, it’s always 

worth asking the manufacturer or supplier for the 

CE Certificate before purchasing. 

1. CE mark should be on the product 

marking or labelling. 

2. CE mark should be in the distinctive 

font and be at least 5mm high. 

3. CE mark should be accompanied by a 

4-digit number for high-risk products. 

4. Instructions should be in English and 

include the manufacturer’s name and 

address. 

5. Certificate should state the name of 

the EU-based organisation that certified 

the product (notified body), along with a 

4-digit number. 

6. Certificate should contain a date and 

notified body signature. The stated 

validity period should be current. 

7. Certificate should include terms and 

conditions. 

“The trouble is, even if 

you’re one of the 

majority who is not out 

to save costs and cut 

corners on safety, 

spotting counterfeit 

PPE can be difficult 

unless you know what 

to look out for” 

8. Certificate should include a clear 

product description, including model, 

specification, and test references. 

9. Certificate should include a 

manufacturer’s name and address. 

10. Look for signs of tampering such as 

differing fonts and sizes plus colour 

changes. 

For more information refer to the British Safety 

Industry Federation, which runs the Registered 

Safety Supplier scheme. Companies that display 

the scheme’s logo have signed a binding 

declaration that the safety equipment they offer 

meets the appropriate standards, fully complies 

with the PPE regulations and is appropriately CE 

marked: www.bsif.co.uk/rsss/ 

Contact the NFRC 

020 7638 7663 

www.nfrc.co.uk 

@TheNFRC 


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Drones & Roofing 

ARE YOU CLEARED FOR TAKE-OFF? 

Amy Chesseman, Waldeck’s Digital Capture Lead, outlines 

her top tips for working with drones on construction sites. 

Drones haven’t always been as prevalent as they are today, but they are now widely used across a 

variety of industries, and are transforming how work is done in the construction industry. Drones 

have a number of key uses on construction sites, for instance; surveying, gathering data and 

project surveillance to name a few, but getting started with drones can sometimes be challenging, so 

below I’ll talk you through my top tips and things to think about when leveraging drones in construction: 

Procedures must be followed when using drones on site. 

1. Consider the complete solution 

This is really important! With the amount of 

people using drones as a hobby or commercially, 

the number of different drones, cameras, 

sensors, accessories and software available is 

increasing rapidly, making it a difficult decision to 

select the right tool for the job. 

Ask yourself, what is it that you want to 

accomplish? Is it to survey an area in 3D, or is it 

progressive data capture to monitor real-time site 

progress? either way the integration of hardware 

and software to streamline the process needs to 

be considered. 

2. Understand rules and regulations 

Drone operators need to be familiar with all the 

Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) rules and 

regulations before using drones commercially. 

Some of the CAA rules for construction firms to 

keep in mind, include: 

• Pilots must have completed a remote pilot 

competency course. 

• Permission from Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) 

to fly. 

• Pilots must keep the aircraft in visual line-ofsight 

or less than 500m from the pilot and below 

400ft high. 

• Operate drones away from airports. 

• Operate drones away from restricted air space. 

3. Always think health and safety 

As with any task on a construction site, health 

and safety is of utmost importance and there are 

many things to think about when operating a 

drone on a construction site; here’s a few: 

• A safety procedure should be in place for all 

parties including flight planning and safe drone 

operation. 

• A full risk assessment must be carried out 

taking into account the hazards associated to 

drones operating, as well as site hazards such as 

open excavations and vehicle movements. 

• Have observers keeping a lookout for hazards to 

allow the pilot to concentrate fully on their task. 

• Sites should be evaluated before a flight 

begins, consider what and who is around you – 

drones cannot be flown within 50 metres of 

structures, vehicles or people that are not under 

the control of the person in charge of the aircraft; 

or within 150m of a congested area. 

• Consider a site walk before take-off to pick up 

any new hazards which may have appeared 

during the planning stage. 

• Always check the height of the tallest structure 

on site before take-off. 

• Always check safety features are set to the site 

you are on. 

4. You must have insurance 

Drone operators must have insurance that meets 

the requirements of EC Regulation No 785/2004 

and if your insurance policy does not meet this 

regulation, your CAA permission is invalid. 

With many rival companies offering drone 

insurance, it’s always best to compare and check 

exactly what is covered. Think about how many 

accessories you may need and the cost to replace 

if the policy did not include these. As well as 

annual insurance policies, many companies now 

offer ‘pay as you fly’ cover. 

5. Planning, planning, planning 

As with any project, good and appropriate 

planning is essential. 

Even if you’ve been to the site before, never 

assume everything will be the same, especially 

when it comes to cranes – they may not be the 

same height as your last visit! 

Construction sites are constantly evolving so it’s 

best to do a site walk before take-off to pick up 

any new hazards which may have appeared and 

ask if any new hazards may be arriving to site 

that day, such as a new crane or delivery of 

materials to be stored in the area you want to 

take off in. 

No matter how thorough your planning may be 

leading up to a project, always check everything 

on the day because airspace restrictions may 

suddenly be in place over your job site, solar 

activity may have increased and the weather 

forecasts may have got their predictions wrong. 

Ready, set, go! 

Contact Waldeck 

08450 990 285 

www.waldeckconsulting.com 

@waldeckconsult 


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

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

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

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

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

MEASUREMENTS 

SEE US AT 

Total Roo f Area = 467.95 sq m 

Total Roof Facets =24 

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Total Valleys 

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Tota l Verges = 14.63m 

=111.86 m

Insurance Focus 

PROJECT POLICIES: CONTRACTORS, 

MAKE SURE YOU’RE COVERED... 

By Ian Hollingworth, Head of Claims for ECIC. 

The High Court’s recent decision that a 

roofing firm that caused a fire at a high 

school in London was not protected by a 

project policy has raised some serious questions 

over the reliance by sub-contractors on these 

types of insurance policies. This could expose 

contractors and subcontractors to higher risks – 

in particular smaller sub-contractors working on 

large contracts could be vulnerable as a result of 

this ruling. 

Traditionally, employers on larger construction 

projects take out a project policy to cover damage 

to the existing structure and possibly the contract 

works being undertaken by the sub-contractors 

appointed to work on site. 

“The project policy 

insurer dealt with the 

property loss, but then 

sought to recover their 

outlay from the 

contractor that caused 

the loss” 

As this type of policy would usually provide 

protection to named contractors and sometimes 

all contractors in the contractual chain, it 

provides peace of mind that in the event of a fire 

or some other damage caused by contract 

workers on site, the project policy would step in. 

In the event of damage to the property, the project 

policy insurer would simply cover the loss rather 

than each sub-contractor going to their own 

insurers to recover the cost of their own damaged 

contract works. 

This avoids lengthy and often costly litigation 

between various contractors who could be 

blamed for causing the damage 

to the building. 

The project policy avoids all of 

this and ensures the property 

and works are adequately covered 

to avoid lengthy delays in the 

completion of the construction. 

Terms of the sub-contract 

However, in a recent case, (Haberdashers’ Aske’s 

Federation Trust Ltd v Lakehouse Contracts Ltd 

and others [2018] EWHC 558 (TCC)), the High 

Court found roofing firm CPR wasn’t protected by 

the project policy because the terms of the subcontract 

required that they should maintain their 

own insurance. 

Usually a construction contract would contain an 

insuring clause requiring the individual subcontractor 

to take out insurance to cover their 

own contract works along with Employers Liability 

and Public Liability. This is even if there is a 

project policy in place. 

The difference with this case was that the project 

policy insurer dealt with the property loss, but 

then sought to recover their outlay from the 

contractor that caused the loss. 

This was unusual as a project policy is usually 

taken out in joint names – the policyholder and all 

sub-contractors; this previously meant the project 

policy insurer could not seek a recovery as 

essentially all sub-contractors would be considered 

a policyholder and covered under the policy. 

Notably in this instance, the Court allowed the 

project insurer to recover the loss from the subcontractor. 

This was on the basis that the main 

construction contract had required that the subcontractor 

take out their own insurance. In addition, 

the sub-contractor was not named at the 

commencement of the 

construction project and therefore 

not factored into the cover by the 

project policy insurer when the policy was 

taken out. 

This ruling has really called into question the 

effectiveness of project insurance. It has wide 

ramifications for contractors as they can no longer 

rely upon a project insurer to pick up a loss in the 

event of damage they have caused to a property. 

It’s essential, therefore, that they ensure adequate 

cover is taken out to cover their potential 

liabilities. Seeking the advice and support of an 

insurance broker is highly recommended. 

Additionally, the insurers of sub-contractors can 

no longer rely on the existence of a project policy 

to cover a loss. This could mean higher insurance 

claims which may have a knock-on effect in 

premium increases. 

Now, more than ever, it is important for subcontractors 

to understand the risks attached to 

their works and the potential losses they could 

face if they don’t ensure adequate insurance 

cover is in place for any eventuality. 

Contact ECIC 

0330 221 0250 

www.ecic.co.uk 

Left: Ian Hollingworth, Head of Claims 

for ECIC. 

“The insurers of subcontractors 

can no 

longer rely on the 

existence of a project 

policy to cover a loss” 



“ONE VERY IMPORTANT TOOL IS A 

KNOWLEDGE OF CONTRACT LAW” 

Andy King started roofing when he was 14 and used his experience and know-how to establish 

A L King Roofing which includes a contracting and merchant business. He is also a past- 

President of the NFRC and an ideal candidate for our Contractor’s Q’s... 

10 

questions for Andy King: 

“Make sure you have 

some capital behind 

you for that rainy day or 

that slow paying client” 

TC: What was your path into construction 

and to your current position? 

AK: My path into construction was quite simple; 

when I was about 14 and living in Surrey, my 

friend’s father was a small builder carrying out 

extensions, renovations and occasionally a oneoff 

house and I worked for him some weekends 

and school holidays. I enjoyed the work and 

wanted to learn more about construction. At 16 I 

went to Guilford technical college to study the City 

and Guilds construction technician course and 

passed parts 1 and 2. On leaving college I was 

unsure what to do so my father suggested I got 

some practical experience to go with the theory. 

Having had part of our roof retiled he suggested 

calling the roofing contractor that carried out the 

work to see if he was interested in some extra 

labour. Fortunately he was and I had an 

interview on the 5th of April 1975 (my 

eighteenth birthday) and started as a trainee on 

the following Monday. 

“Having had part of our 

roof retiled he 

suggested calling the 

roofing contractor that 

carried out the work to 

see if he was 

interested in some 

extra labour” 

As I mentioned, I enjoyed the work although it 

was hard work – everything was carried manually 

up ladders and lorries were unloaded 

manually. I remember thinking at the 

time that this line of work would not 

be for everybody, so if I could stick at it 

and learn the trade well, I should always 

have work. 

So I worked hard and studied my trade, with a 

constant desire of starting my own business one 

day. 

Having gained a reasonable practical knowledge 

of roof tiling and slating I became self-employed, 

I worked as a sub-contractor for some wellknown 

contractors in the area whilst trying to 

build my own customer base until, in my opinion, 

I had enough work to sustain me for a while. 

Some people I worked for would buy the materials 

and if I had to buy them I was able to use a credit 

card, as with no trading references it was 

impossible to obtain credit from builders 

merchants or anybody else. 

The business grew until it became obvious I 

would have to start employing people to help me 

as more work was coming in than I could cope 

with. The business has continued to grow and in 

the year 2000 I was able to start a roofing 

merchant to help the contracting side, and sell 

roofing products to other local roofing contractors. 

The business now employs 60 people and has an 

annual turnover in excess of £8 million with two 

merchant outlets and a strong contracting 

division. 

Andy King, past-President of the NFRC and 

Managing Director of A L King Roofing. 

TC: What’s your one piece of 

advice for those looking to start 

a roofing business? 

AK: The best advice I could give anybody wanting 

to start a roofing business is make sure you have 

some capital behind you for that rainy day or that 

slow paying client. Another essential thing is 

know your subject and learn what your rights are 

regarding contract law. 

“We are tasked with 

completing eight 

houses each week for 

the next thirty weeks 

with garages and 

porches added in” 

TC: Tell us about the current project 

you’re working on… 

AK: There are a few interesting projects we are 

working on at the moment but the one that stands 

out is one we are doing for Lovell’s in Bulford 

near Salisbury, Wiltshire. This is one of three 

developments being carried out by Lovell’s in the 

area and it is for military personnel returning from 

overseas. The main reason for this being an 

interesting site is the pace of build. We are tasked 

with completing eight houses each week for the next 

thirty weeks with garages and porches added 



in without further consideration. The whole site is 

like a production line and if any trade fails to 

reach its targets each week, it has quite an 

impact on the next trades. This site needs 

constant attention by my operatives and 

management to ensure we hit targets each week. 

“What could have been 

a good project was 

turned into a 

nightmare – somebody 

thought they could get 

a twenty four month job 

done in twelve months” 

TC: Over the years, does one project in 

particular stand out? 

AK: I have worked on many difficult projects over 

the years and the most common issue is time 

allowed to carry out the work with unrealistic 

completion dates. One contract in particular 

stands out – it was a complete refurbishment of 

a large building in Bath and from the moment I 

went to site I realised the project could not be 

completed within the programme set by the 

contractor. The result was that every trade and 

every manager from the contractor was working 

under ridiculous pressure, trying to achieve the 

unachievable and relationships between the 

contractors’ managers and all the trades was at 

best fraught. I struggled to get my operatives to 

go to site as they knew it was going to be another 

tough day. The contract was over twelve months 

late being delivered to the client and cost the 

contractor millions. This resulted in the contractor 

trying to recoup the money from the subcontractors. 

What could have been a good project 

was turned into a nightmare because somebody 

thought they could get a twenty four month job 

done in twelve months. 

TC: What about difficult customers? 

AK: Difficult customers – where do you start? 

Most become difficult when they are reluctant to 

part with any money or are trying get a reduction 

in cost. One particular customer stands out. The 

job was an extension to a large house in a 

desirable part of Bristol and the contract was 

being managed by the homeowner. It was not a 

big contract, but a few problems presented 

themselves due to the lack of construction 

knowledge from the homeowner. Eventually we 

finished the roof and presented our invoice in line 

with our accepted quotation and the client’s 

order. There must have been one hundred 

reasons why they did not want to pay and the 

process took over four months being batted 

backwards and forwards before it was decided to 

take the matter to the small claims court in 

Bristol. We had our day in court and the Judge 

listened to our side of the argument and then 

asked the homeowner for their version. The Judge 

was sceptical as to why the homeowner had such 

a detailed account of their dealings with a roofing 

contractor from the moment our estimator 

appeared on site to supply a quotation, to the tile 

delivery, and then every day we had operatives on 

site. We won the case and later found out we 

were one of the only contractors to get paid for 

their work and the homeowner had the majority of 

their extension built for nothing. 

TC: What’s the most frustrating thing 

about your job? 

AK: The most frustrating aspect of my job is the 

constant boom and bust of the Construction 

Industry and the difficulty that creates in building 

the business for the future because of the 

uncertainty and insecurity. 

TC: And the most satisfying? 

AK: The most satisfying part about my job is 

working on a contract that is well run, is on 

programme, affords us the correct amount of time 

to complete our work and looks good when it is 

complete. Unfortunately all these factors don’t 

always come together at once. 

TC: What’s your most important tool 

either in the office or on site? 

AK: The most important tool for any roofing 

contractor is a well trained workforce. A workforce 

“The most satisfying 

part about my job is 

working on a contract 

that is well run, is on 

programme and affords 

us the correct amount 

of time to complete our 

work” 

that is well trained technically with their trade and 

with health and safety and know how to conduct 

themselves on site. This will only enhance your 

reputation as a professional roofing contractor and 

lead to repeat business. Another important tool is 

knowledge of contract law. I have saved my 

company a lot of money by challenging the legality 

of a contractor’s behaviour and advising them they 

are breaking the law; a very useful tool to have. 

TC: Best social media platform for you? 

AK: In my opinion, the best social media platform 

for a company of medium size would be a good 

and professional website. Some smaller 

companies do use Facebook but I think it does 

depend on the size of the company and the target 

audience. 

TC: How do you feel your sector’s shaping 

up in 2018? Any reasons to be positive? 

AK: I feel the roofing sector in the new build area 

is looking extremely healthy. Our enquiry level is 

high, our percentage of tenders won is stronger 

than normal and on a personal note, I am 

extremely optimistic for the next year or two. 

Recruitment of apprentices is good. As a 

company we have been starting four apprentices 

every year for the last three years and two or 

three last the course and get to finish their 

training. Some of the first apprentices are now 

mentoring the new intake and are running their 

own gangs, which is very pleasing. 

Contact A L King Roofing 

01225 705918 

www.alkingroofing.co.uk 


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BMI Apprentice of the Year 

APPRENTICES SHINE AT 2018 FINALS 

The skills and recruitment issues affecting the roofing and the wider construction industry 

are well documented, but as the apprentices involved in the second instalment of the BMI 

Apprentice of the Year competition have shown, there’s plenty to be positive about when it 

comes to the next generation of roofers… 

One competition can’t change the fact that 

roofing is facing a perception and 

recruitment crisis – a recent survey by 

Which? found that only half of respondents 

thought roofers were trustworthy, whilst CITB 

research shows that the appeal of the 

construction industry as a career option for young 

people is low, scoring 4.2 out of 10 among 14 to 

19 year olds – but what a competition like the 

Apprentice of the Year can do is highlight that the 

training that is going on in colleges and the 

support provided from employers on site every 

day up and down the country is providing positive 

results for those pursuing a career in roofing. 

Total Contractor was asked to help judge the BMI 

Apprentice of the Year competition, which had 

grown this year to include the Icopal flat roofing 

event as well as the Redland pitched roofing 

competition. 

Flat and Pitched awards 

BMI Group said they received well over 100 

entries for this year’s competition, so the 18 

finalists who had made it to the two-day finals 

held at the BMI National Training Centre in South 

Cerney had already done well to make it that far; 

but with the mix of classroom and rig 

assessments, individual and group work, 

interviews and presentations, the hard work was 

only just beginning. 

The apprentices had all followed different paths 

“It links perfectly with 

the current push within 

the sector to raise the 

perception of roofing in 

the public’s eye” 

into roofing and came from 

different backgrounds; a 

number had been in the 

military, some had 

been waiters and 

others, like so many 

before them, had 

followed their fathers or 

other family members 

into the profession. But 

whatever experience they had 

gained in life, on site or at their college, 

the Apprentice of the Year takes 

these young men well and truly 

out of their comfort zone, 

testing not just their 

practical skills and 

knowledge, but also 

developing their soft 

skills and coaching 

them on how to interact 

with customers, present 

themselves professionally 

and ultimately plan and run a 

business. This is why the Apprentice 

of the Year competition has launched at the 

perfect time, it links perfectly with the current 

push within the sector to raise the perception of 

roofing in the public’s eye, as well as the NFRC’s 

& CITB’s RoofCert accreditation initiative. 

And these new ‘soft’ skills weren’t lost on the 

apprentices. Early on the first day they’re all 

understandably a bit nervous and tentative, but 

as the competition progresses with each of the 

four assessments beginning with a presentation 

from an expert in that area, you can visibly see 

the apprentices grow in confidence until on the 

final day, they are all at a level where they feel 

The apprentices assess the pitched 

roofing rig (top) and flat roofing 

rigs (below) for the defects 

assessment. 

confident enough to 

stand in front of three 

judges and give a fiveto-ten-minute 

presentation on a topic of 

their choice. It’s a daunting 

proposition for anyone, and some 

of the apprentices commented that 

prior to the competition they 

could not see themselves 

doing the final 

presentation; as one 

told me: “If you’d 

told me a year ago 

I’d be involved in a 

competition like this 

and standing up doing 

a presentation to 

strangers – I’d have said no 

chance.” 

Real confidence 

And that’s the great thing about the Apprentice 

of the Year competition, there are two overall 

winners – and two runners up this year because 

the competition was so strong – but all the 

apprentices learn new skills that will put them in 

a stronger position and give them a real 

confidence boost for their careers going forward. 

As one apprentice explained in his final 

presentation: “I’d like to win, but even if I don’t, 

I’ve learned so much in this competition. It’s 

given me the confidence to think about where I 

want to be in the future.” 


THE NORTH STARS! 

Kieran Forster is the Icopal Apprentice of the Year 2018 Jay Webster is the Redland Apprentice of the Year 2018 

Kieran Forster was crowned Icopal Apprentice Jay Webster was crowned Redland Apprentice 

of the Year 2018. Kieran is an attendee at of the Year 2018. Jay attends Leeds College of 

Newcastle College and is employed by Stanleybased 

Hodgson Sayers. On receiving the title Roofing. On receiving his award Jay explained: 

Building and works for Yorkshire Heritage 

Kieran explained what he was feeling: “Pure “Words can’t really describe how I feel and I 

shock when I heard my name announced and still can’t believe it to be honest. I became more 

I’m still in shock. I can’t believe it’s actually confident as the competition went on, but to 

happened. There were guys there with more actually win it tells me I’m better than I thought 

experience than me so to win it is simply I was.” 

amazing!” 

Joe Burgess (above), a former waiter, who came out with a 

memorable phrase during his presentation: “I gave up a job 

to go into a career” when talking about his move into roofing, 

was Highly Commended in the Icopal flat roofing 

competition. Joe works for Waveney District Council and is 

enrolled at Eastern Region Roof Training Group. 

Tom Thompson, (above), ex-soldier who works for AL King 

Roofing and studies at South West Training Group, was Highly 

Commended in the Redland Pitched Roofing competition. 

Above: The winning apprentices pictured with Andy Dennis, BMI Group MD UK & Ireland. Both Kieran and Jay received a 

£1,000 cash prize, a handsome trophy for the mantelpiece plus a goody bag of high-quality roofing tools and materials. 

They are also entitled to support from the two industry brand leaders at BMI’s National Training Centre. 

“All the apprentices learn new skills that will put 

them in a stronger position and give them a real 

confidence boost for their careers going 

forward” 

The Icopal flat roofing judges look on as one of the 

candidates talk them through the defects on the rig. L-R 

Mark Thornton, SPRA, Matt Downs, Total Contractor 

magazine, and Gary Walpole, NFRC. 

All those involved in the BMI Aprentice of the Year 2018 

including judges, apprentices, tutors and employers 

attended a glittering awards ceremony at Cricklade House. 

The 18 apprentices with their trophies and certificates alongside Andy Dennis, BMI Group Managing Director UK & Ireland. 

Total Contractor would like to thank Mat Woodyatt and the 

team at BMI Group for putting on such a great event, as 

well as all the tutors, employers and apprentices for 

attending, and the sponsors Wincanton, Avonside Group, 

Buck and Hickman, Midland Lead and Scott Direct for 

helping make this such a great event. 


Perfectly Pitched 

WHAT DO THE AMENDMENTS TO 

BS 5534 REALLY MEAN FOR YOU? 

In his latest column, pitched roofing expert and consultant John Mercer (pic) – writing on 

behalf of Imerys Roof Tiles – looks at what the amendments to BS 5534, which came into 

effect on July 1st, mean for contractors. 

When BS 5534: 2014, The British 

Standard Code of Practice for Slating 

and Tiling, was published it represented 

a major revision of a Standard that was first 

published in 1978. Not only was it completely 

restructured to make the Standard easy to use, it 

also introduced many new changes to recognise 

up-to-date building principles and knowledge, 

such as wind loads on roof tiles and underlays 

and, perhaps most importantly of all, minimum 

fixing requirements were revised to recommend 

that all tiles be fixed and mortar bedded 

components no longer rely solely on the mortar 

for their resistance to wind uplift. 

Inevitably, with such a major revision and having 

now had the experience of use of the Standard for 

a period, there are certain elements that needed 

to be either corrected or clarified. Hence, a 

second minor revision was published on 28th 

February and came into effect on 1st July 2018. 

Clarification of scope of Standard 

Firstly, the scope of BS 5534 has been amended 

to make clear that it applies to the design, 

performance and installation of not only new 

build pitched roofs and vertical cladding; it also 

applies to re-roofing work, including repairs to 

existing slate or tiled roofs. 

However, in contrast, the scope states that some 

elements of BS 5534 may not be appropriate for 

some old slate or tile roofs – for example, where 

traditional and / or reclaimed materials are used. 

This is particularly important for historically or 

architecturally important buildings. In these 

cases, advice should be sought from the local 

planning authority and appropriate conservation 

organisation and all parties should 

agree on the specification. A 

common example is where it 

would be aesthetically 

undesirable for such a building to 

have a dry ridge system or even 

visible ridge tile mechanical fixings. 

“Baby ridge and hip 

tiles are only 

recommended for use 

with double lapped 

plain tiles and should 

overlap the top course 

of tiles by at least 

65mm” 

Installation of baby ridge & hip tiles 

Following the introduction of the requirement to 

mechanically fix all ridge and hip tiles in the 2014 

revision to BS 5534, it has been found that, 

practically, this can be difficult to achieve when 

installing some small section ‘baby’ ridge tiles. 

Therefore, in this latest revision, there is new 

advice for the use of baby ridge tiles. Firstly, they 

are only recommended for use on low level roofs 

up to 3m high, such as bay windows and porches. 

Secondly, baby ridge tiles may be mortar-bedded 

only – i.e without additional mechanical fixings – 

so long as the correct mortar mix is used as 

specified in BS 5534 and the self-weight of the 

ridges is sufficient to resist wind loads. Baby ridge 

and hip tiles are only recommended for use with 

double lapped plain tiles and should overlap the top 

course of tiles by at least 65mm. 

New reference to BS 8612 

BS 8612, the new British 

Standard for dry fix products, 

was published in January this 

year. Although well publicised, 

there has been some confusion 

about when it actually comes into effect. 

As a new Standard, there is no ‘grace period’ 

which means that BS 8612 really came into effect 

the moment it was published, albeit as a 

voluntary Standard. However, the latest version of 

BS 5534 now states that “dry fixed ridge, hip and 

verge products should conform to BS 8612”. 

Illustration shows air permeable underlays & wind loading. 

New definition of air permeable underlay 

In previous editions of BS 5534 air permeable 

underlays were not defined. Therefore, in this 

latest amendment, an air permeable underlay is 

now categorised as one that has an air 

permeability of not less than 20m³/m².h, 

measured at 50 Pa. 

This now enables manufacturers and suppliers of 

these underlays to define their product in 

accordance with BS 5534. 

Note that this stated figure for air permeability 

relates to wind uplift resistance rather than 

condensation control and the roofer or designer 


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Perfectly Pitched 

should follow the underlay manufacturer’s 

installation guidance to ensure harmful 

condensation does not occur in the roof space. 

New definitions for ceiling types 

In this latest amendment to BS 5534, the 

previous term ‘well-sealed ceiling’ has been 

replaced with new definitions of a ‘continuous 

ceiling’ and a ‘discontinuous ceiling’. This enables 

each to be defined in a clearer, more technical 

manner as the type of ceiling has implications for 

the control of condensation in the loft space as 

well as the wind uplift resistance of unsupported 

underlays. A continuous ceiling; i.e one that has 

an air permeability of 30mm² per square metre or 

less, will require less or even no roof space 

ventilation, depending upon the roof construction 

and product types. Also, an underlay with an 

uplift resistance of 1600 N/m² or more can be 

used in conjunction with a continuous ceiling 

within all geographical zones within the UK 

(provided other criteria are met). By contrast, a 

discontinuous ceiling – i.e one that has an air 

permeability of more than 30mm² per square 

metre – will require more ventilation in the loft 

space and the underlay must have a wind uplift 

resistance of not less than 1900 N/m² to be used 

within all UK geographical zones (again, subject 

to other criteria being met). 

New wind loading ‘shielding factor’ for 

air permeable underlays 

It has long been understood that a proportion of 

the wind loading on roof tiles is actually borne by 

the substrate – i.e the underlay or sarking – this 

is known as the shielding factor. However, recent 

research has shown that air permeable 

underlays, by their very nature of allowing air to 

pass through them, share less of the wind load 

under certain conditions, meaning that a higher 

proportion of the wind load is then borne by the 

roof tiles. More research is required to better 

understand the exact consequences of this, but in 

the meantime, a new ‘Shielding Factor’ value has 

been included in this latest edition of BS 5534 to 

allow for the lesser load being taken by air 

permeable underlays. In practice, this means that 

the tile manufacturer must take this into account 

when calculating roof tile fixing specifications. So 

since July, you’ll now see a new question about 

the underlay type on tile manufacturers’ fixing 

request forms. 

All Imerys tiles, fittings and accessories fully 

comply with the requirements of BS 5534 and 

BS 8612. Also, all fixing specifications carried 

out by Imerys from July 1st take into account air 

permeable underlays where applicable. 

Contact Imerys Roof Tiles 

www.imerys-roof-tiles.com 

@imerys 

@johnmercer3 

Below: An image of an Imerys Beauvoise roof. 


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Slate Roofs 

MAKING THE GRADE WITH NATURAL 

SLATE: TOP TIPS FOR YOUR PROJECT 

Time-pressured roofers can be tempted to overlook grading and sorting when carrying out a 

natural slate roofing project. To do so is a mistake says Ged Ferris, of Cembrit, and below he 

offers his top tips to get your slate project right first time. 

1. Preliminary work 

It must be stressed that the overall appearance of 

a finished roof is dependent on the preliminary 

work undertaken before any slates are even fixed. 

This process starts on the drawing board of the 

architect and continues through the erection of 

the building to roof level, the accuracy of the 

timberwork to support the roof covering, the 

felting and battening of the roof and the 

preparation before any slating starts. 

2. Take a little time 

Good workmanship is the foundation of a 

successful natural slate roofing project. A project 

that is well planned and executed will prove 

rewarding for the roofing contractor and client 

alike. However, a project that is ill-thought-out 

and hurriedly executed is likely to generate 

disputes, both in the short and the long-term. 

Taking a little extra time to do the work according 

to the codes of practice can quite literally pay 

dividends! 

3. Grade & sort – even preholed 

slates 

The process of grading and 

sorting is essential, even if the 

slates are pre-holed. A common 

misconception is that pre-holed slates 

are already graded and sorted. This is most 

definitely not the case. 

“A project that is illthought-out 

and 

hurriedly executed is 

likely to generate 

disputes, both in the 

short & the long-term” 

4. Look to existing guidance 

There is guidance readily available to anyone who 

is in any doubt as to the correct procedures to 

follow. Key advice is contained in Clause 4.3 in the 

BS 8000-6:2013 Code of Practice for slating and 

Left: Ged Ferris, Cembrit. Below: 

Cembrit’s Glendyne Natural Slate. 

tiling of roofs and claddings. This 

standard applies to all types of 

natural slate, regardless of origin or 

grade. It has two main recommendations: 

• Sort slates into 3 or 4 groups of equal thickness. 

• Lay slates of equal thickness in any one course, 

with the thicker end (if any) at the tail. Slate the 

roof with the thicker slates in the lower courses 

and the thinner slates in the upper course. 

Ensuring you follow these two steps will go a long 

way to preventing problems further down the line. 

If these steps are ignored and a thick slate is laid 

next to a thin one, the overlapping slate in the 

course above will lie at an angle. The knock-on 

effect will be ‘bird-mouthing’, compromising of 

the weather and wind uplift resistance and 

possible cracking of the slates in the upper 

courses. So, a good grading and sorting session 

prior to laying any slates will be time well spent. 

In short, the best quality products, the most 

imaginative building designs and the most 

progressive construction techniques can all be 

compromised through poor detailing and 

inadequate workmanship. Nothing can beat 

expertise in any field and BS 8000, if followed by 

competent and conscientious practitioners, should 

result in a problem free construction project. 

Contact Cembrit 

020 3372 2300 

www.cembrit.co.uk 

@CembritUK 


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Training Day 

ON THE RIGS & IN THE CLASSROOM: 

DEMAND FOR TRAINING IS RISING 

Demand for BMI’s pitched roofing training is on the rise. We signed up to a course at its 

National Training Centre to find out why... 

is a sure-fire winner for roofing 

contractors,” declares Alastair Blant, 

“This 

Technical Trainer – Pitched; waving 

around a silver-coloured clip with a long tail. “They 

try it once and then keep on coming back for more.” 

The clip in question is a Kro-Clip, used to secure 

small, cut tiles at hip details on a pitched roof. 

Alastair is based at the BMI National Training Centre 

in South Cerney near Cirencester. Set up by Redland 

– now part of BMI Group – 35 years ago, the centre 

provides both pitched and flat roof training to a 

variety of external customers and internal staff 

members. 

Traditionally the mix of trainees has been around 

30% roofers and 70% other customers, such as 

merchants, local authorities and housing 

associations. However, in the last few years that 

split has moved to 50:50 as more contractors 

recognise the value of upskilling their workforce. 

“There is a changing attitude towards training in 

the roofing sector,” says Alastair, who had trained 

47 roofing contractors 

the week before we 

attended a course at 

the centre. 

“Contractors want to 

be seen to be more 

professional and 

training is the main way 

– if not the only way, to 

upskill.” 

Green to Red 

BMI is the only pitched roofing manufacturer to 

provide the two-day CITB and NFRC recognised 

Basic Competency Programme in pitched roofing. 

This allows roofers to convert from a Green 

labourer’s card to a Red experienced worker one, 

on the understanding that they will be working 

towards an NVQ over the following three years. 

Alastair and his colleagues provide a range of roof 

training through the centre, with 1,500 people 

coming through the doors every year. They also 

train at other BMI sites 

and at customers’ 

sites, offices or 

merchant premises. 

Our course was a 

two-day basic 

introduction to pitched 

roofing. However, with 

Icopal also being part of BMI 

Group, the centre gives basic and 

advanced training in a variety of flat roofing 

technologies too, including bitumen, single ply 

and a variety of hot and cold applied liquid 

technologies. 

Courses are designed to add extra value to the 

BMI customer relationship and equip decisionmakers 

and influencers with information, 

including the many benefits of BMI systems. 

Classroom and workshop sessions 

The two-day basic roofing course combines 

alternating classroom and workshop sessions. 

Alastair, with an engaging delivery style that 

would not be out of place on the stage, manages 

to inject elements of history, geography, geology 

and an unending supply of roofing anecdotes into 

the more expected course content. 

Alastair’s snippets of history – all roofing 

relevant – included the march of the Roman 

empire into Britain, the use of roof tiles as ballast 

on merchant boats and air pollution during the 

industrial revolution. His stories from the field, 

gleaned from BMI technical colleagues and 

course attendees, ranged from horror stories of 

badly-installed roofs and miscalculations, to an 

explanation of why we have Dutch pantiles on the 

east coast of England. 


The 12 people on our 

course came from a 

range of backgrounds 

including counter staff 

from building and roofing 

merchants, component 

suppliers to BMI, and 

sales and marketing 

Above: With Icopal also being part of the BMI Group, the 

people from within the 

centre gives basic & advanced training in a variety of flat 

group. Theoretical roofing technologies. 

subjects included the 

basics of roofing terminology, through to recent updates in British Standards 

and a brief introduction to estimating for roofs. 

BS 8612 

One of the newest additions to the course materials is information on BS 

8612 Dry-fixed Ridge, Hip, Verge and Valley Systems for Slating and Tiling, 

which was published earlier this year. As well as a classroom session 

covering the Standard, we got the opportunity to install Redland’s new dry 

verge – which Alastair informed us was the first new verge which meets and 

exceeds the requirements of the new Standard – in the workshop. Other 

practical activities included laying a concrete pantile roof and exercises with 

plain tiles and slate. 

Eye opener 

For many of the people attending the course, the workshop sessions were a 

real eye opener. “To get up and do the practical side of it has been really 

good”, said Andrew Perrett, an Assistant Manager for Bence which has three 

branches supplying roofing materials and products. “It’s given me more 

understanding of what goes into the process. It may seem like a simple 

process but there are lots of things that can easily go wrong.” 

The updates on Standards and the grounding in estimating were also 

particularly useful according to Andrew: “People do come in and ask for 

advice, even those that have been doing it for years,” he says. “I’ve got a 

better insight now.” 

As our fellow trainees left the training centre armed with their pocket guide to 

the Redland range and The Redland Book guide to roofing, Alastair explained 

that his role was to ensure that roofs are installed with attention to detail and 

a proper understanding of the products and how they should be used: “We 

don’t teach people how to be roofers; we teach them how to be better roofers 

and how to be better sellers of roofing systems.” 

F or everyone settling for nothing but the 

best when it comes to performance and 

precision. Ideal for roofers. 

Hot air tool 

HG 2620 E 

• 2300 W / 50 – 700 °C / 150 – 500 l/min 

• Brushless motor: 10,000 h 

• Air pressure: 4,000 Pa for more power 

• Suitable for construction site use 

• LCD information display 

• 4 user-selectable programmes 

• Easy to operate by joystick 

• Heater and power cord easy to change 

• Including fine dust filter 

www.steinel-professional.de 

Contact the BMI National Training Centre 

01285 863545 

www.redland.co.uk 

@_Redland 


Modern Roofs 

A ROOF FOR ALL SEASONS: KNOW- 

HOW, ACCESSORIES AND PRODUCTS 

By Richard Bishop (pic), Category Manager for Roof, Wienerberger. 

If you ask yourself what the basics are we all 

expect from a roof, it would be to keep the 

weather out and the heat in. But the truth is 

that modern roofs have to do so much more. They 

need to be able to breathe to prevent 

condensation build up, handle unpredictable 

weather extremes, expand in the heat, and 

contract in the cold – all without letting in water 

or breaking. 

“Concrete has become 

the main product 

driving the UK pitched 

roofing market, with 

designs coming in all 

shapes and sizes 

For all this to be possible, 

contractors require high 

performance products and the 

right installation techniques. 

In anticipation of the impending 

cold and wet winter, we wanted to 

look at how modern roofs are designed to 

cope with less than perfect weather conditions. 

The apex shape 

Although we’ve had an unusually warm and dry 

summer, British weather can be unpredictable 

and we’re prone to our fair share of rainfall. The 

amount of water that pours out of our skies is the 

reason why the pitched apex roof is so prevalent 

when it comes to UK homes. This shape was 

designed to allow rainwater to run off effortlessly, 

keeping the occupants and 

contents of the building dry. 

It’s no accident that roofs are 

shaped as an apex, it is the most 

natural shape to allow water 

drainage. In fact, the latest flat 

roofing trends have to cope with ponding and 

water egress in entirely different ways, but the 

traditional British home still uses a strong, stable 

apex allowing space for a room in the roof or just 

a good old fashioned storage space. 

Flashing solutions 

Lead is the traditional flashing and waterproofing 

option for the UK but there are other options. 

Modern alternatives such as our Koraflex Plus offer 

the same look and workability as lead and 


SFS fixings shape 

our landscape 

Extend the lifespan of your 

building - the choice is easy! 

Use A4 stainless steel fasteners from SFS for improved 

durability, greater resistance to corrosion and a longer warranty. 

T: 0113 2085 500 

W: www.sfsintec.co.uk 

E: gb_technical@sfsintec.biz

Modern Roofs 

feature excellent UV & temperature resistance. 

A traditional gable-to-gable roof has no inner 

details, but the minute you put on an extension or 

have an L-shaped roof then we need to think 

about waterproofing the angles, the hip or the 

valley. Leaky chimneys are a common problem 

area so flashing the intersection between the 

chimney and the roof is always recommended. 

Tile shapes 

Clay pantiles have been around for about 400 

years now and have long proved themselves to be 

an extremely efficient form of weatherproof roof 

covering. In early methods of clay production 

there was very little control during firing over the 

final shape of a product. This meant that the 

design of a roof tile was such that it had to be 

weathertight whatever its final shape. The shape 

of a traditional pantile is a wonderful testimony to 

early roof tile designers! Not only do they keep the 

water out but the gaps around the tiles minimise 

the suction effect of the wind, helping to prevent 

wind damage. Modern clay tiles have been 

designed to include far more weatherproofing 

features, such as top interlocks and weather 

barriers. Besides pantiles we find plain tiles and 

large format flat tiles, pressed tiles and double 

roman tiles, all having a unique place according 

to location and planning. 

Material Choice 

Using materials such as clay or concrete gives a 

roof a longer life expectancy and will also ensure 

the roof is fireproof and able to handle any 

temperature the weather throws at it. 

Concrete has become the main product driving 

the UK pitched roofing market, with designs 

coming in all shapes and sizes. Clay roof tiles 

are, however, more of a premium roofing option, 

offering greater longevity and a colour that lasts, 

and I’d say actually improve with age and 

weathering. Slate is another great weatherproof 

roof covering, whereas slate effect clay roof tiles 

can be a less expensive alternative. 

Wet weather problems 

Efflorescence is a naturally occurring 

phenomenon caused by water in the form of rain, 

condensation or dew penetrating into the pores of 

concrete tiles and dissolving lime. The solution 

diffuses to the surface of the product, the water 

then evaporates and leaves behind a white film of 

lime. Since the lime content of the concrete can 

vary and the weather conditions obviously differ, 

the level of efflorescence can also fluctuate 

considerably. 

The same chemical process which brings the lime 

to the surface of a tile carries on, enabling it to be 

degraded and washed away by the rain, so that 

eventually the efflorescence disappears by 

itself – usually in a matter of months. Unlike 

some manufacturers, we treat the surface of all 

our concrete tiles with an acrylic polymer 

coatings to not only minimise the formation of 

efflorescence, but to give stronger and longer 

lasting colours. 

In conclusion, the wet weather can bring with it a 

host of problems for roofing contractors and their 

customers. However, when armed with high 

performance products and accessories alongside 

roofing know-how, there’s no need to be concerned 

about our famous wet weather returning. 

Contact Wienerberger 

0845 303 2524 

www.wienerberger.co.uk 

@wienerbergeruk 

Koraflex Plus comes with a 15 year guarantee. 


SEE US AT 

LINCOLN CLAY PANTILE. 

TRADITIONAL FEEL. 

INNOVATIVE FIT. 

The Lincoln clay pantile features fl exible open gauge 

technology with a new fl at batten locator. 

Shaped with an elegant s-curve design and thin leading 

edge, the clay pantile is engineered for pitches as low 

as 17.5°, for fast and simple fi tting across a variety 

of installations. 

And of course, Lincoln clay pantiles fully comply with 

BS 5534 and NHBC Standards. 

Discover more smart thinking (and order free samples) at 

marleyeternit.co.uk/lincoln 

Or call us on 01283 722588 

Marley Eternit. The roof system others look up to.

Clay Plain Tiles 

CUT TO THE CHASE: CLAY PLAIN 

TILES AND CURVED ROOFS 

Roofing contractor Andy Rowlands had to hand cut almost 60,000 Acme double camber 

clay plain tiles to create the award-winning, dramatic curved roof of Quintain House. In this 

article, Andy and the tile’s manufacturer Marley Eternit give their top tips for creating the 

perfect clay roof. 

Andy’s installation tips: 

•Provide a designated cutting area with 

adequate dust suppression, usually water – if 

you’re cutting a lot of tiles, it makes it much easier 

and safer to have one area that is set aside with 

the right equipment and PPE for cutting. 

• Preparation is everything – when working 

with clay plain tiles, you need to plan out the 

roof carefully in order to reduce the amount of 

cutting you need to do. Time spent at the 

beginning will prevent hassle later on. Also 

consider using tile and a half as well as 

standard size tiles to give you more flexibility 

when setting out the roof. 

• Creating curves – I get asked a lot about how 

we created the curved roof on Quintain House. 

We used a double camber tile as it lends itself 

more to the curved roof because of its latitudinal 

camber. I would say though that it takes many 

years of roofing expertise and craftsmanship to 

be able to create a curved roof of this nature! 

“Plan out the roof 

carefully – time spent 

at the beginning will 

prevent hassle later 

on” 

• Battens – The ‘snake-like’ shape of the roof at 

Quintain meant we couldn’t use a traditional 

approach to battening. So we had to precisely cut 

each batten to give us the ability to curve and 

bend it. Entire lengths of batten were reduced 

from 25mm thickness down to 13mm / 12mm / 

9mm / 8mm to promote the bending effect. We 

then layered the ‘thinner’ battens on top of each 

other to provide the necessary height required. 

• Waterproofing – The Quintain roof had a pitch 

of just 21 degrees in some areas which posed 

challenges when it came to waterproofing. Where 

the roof fell outside BS 5534 parameters, we had 

to create an EPDM rubber gutter to channel the 

water to the lowest point of the curve to allow the 

water back over the tile and then make its way 

down the roof in the traditional manner. 

• Check manufacturer guidelines – 

Manufacturers will not usually guarantee roof 

coverings fixed outside of their guidelines, so 

speak to the architect or designer if you think 

there will be an issue. 

Left: Andy Rowlands hand cut close to 60,000 Acme double 

camber clay plain tiles for the stunning roof at Quintain 

House. 


Marley Eternit’s advice: 

• Use the right tools – As Andy has shown, 

cutting clay plain tiles doesn’t need to be difficult, 

as long as you use the right tools. 

While the traditional method 

is a scribe and hammer, 

or pincers, you can 

use power tools that 

are specifically 

designed for a 

hard material, 

such as a 

diamond tipped 

masonry disc 

cutter. These must be 

used with appropriate 

dust suppression. 

• PPE is paramount – If you need to 

cut tiles, do it in a well ventilated area to avoid 

the inhalation of dust. Avoid dust inhalation by 

using cutting equipment fitted with dust 

extraction or suppression and always wear 

goggles, protective clothing, ear defenders and an 

approved respirator when mechanically cutting 

tiles. 

• Get the right blend of tiles – When using clay 

plain tiles, we recommend taking tiles and mixing 

them up from at least three pallets. 

This will enhance the 

appearance of a roof and 

add a charm and 

character you would 

expect from a high 

quality clay roof. 

• Think about 

the fittings – 

Purpose made 

fittings will ensure a 

stunning finish and 

also reduce the time spent 

making a site-formed mitred 

hip, for example. We offer a range of ridge 

and hip options, and also valley tiles, arris hips 

and bonnets which enhance the visual 

appearance of a clay tiled roof. 

• Valleys and bonnets – If you’re going to use 

valley or arris hip tiles, check the specification as 

ours come in a variety of internal angles to suit 

“Purpose made fittings 

will ensure a stunning 

finish and also reduce 

the time spent making 

a site-formed mitred 

hip, for example” 

various roof pitches. Getting the correct product 

first time reduces delays on site and ensures a 

perfect finish, so ask our Technical Advisory team 

if you’re unsure which one you need. 

Top: The snake-like shape of the roof at Quintain House 

meant Andy and the team couldn’t use a traditional 

approach to battening, so each batten was precisely cut to 

give the team the ability to curve and bend it. Left: Cutting 

clay plain tiles doesn’t need to be difficult so long as you use 

the right tools. 

Contact Marley Eternit 

01283 722 588 

www.marleyeternit.co.uk 

@MarleyEternit 


Apprenticeships 

“WE NEED THE SKILLS TO INSTALL IT” 

Julian Gomez, Director of Marketing at CUPA PIZARRAS, discusses the importance of 

supporting the next generation of roofers in light of recent apprenticeship figures. 

The government’s target to build a million 

new homes by 2020 has put a huge amount 

of pressure on those within the roofing 

industry to deliver on this ambitious target. A 

growing skills gap – particularly within the slate 

roofing industry – that is developing due to a lack 

of new apprentices and the increasing amount of 

experienced roofers retiring, poses a risk that this 

target might never be met. 

As of April 2018, the UK government introduced 

the Apprenticeship Levy, which significantly 

changed the structure of the apprenticeship 

funding system. The Levy encourages employers 

who have annual wage bills over £3 million to 

invest in apprenticeship programmes and to raise 

additional funds to improve the quantity of 

apprentices taken on. 

Despite this, a report recently released by the 

Office for National Statistics (ONS) has 

highlighted that apprenticeship starts between 

August 2017 and March 2018 have decreased by 

28% compared with the same period for the 

previous academic year. 

With most businesses putting this decrease down 

to the Apprenticeship Levy overcomplicating the 

system, others say that the levy funding does not 

cover the high cost of training in technical fields. 

This is particularly the case for those lower down 

in the supply chain, such as sub contractors, who 

can only receive up to 10% of the Levy funds 

passed on by larger firms. 

Manufacturer support 

This skills shortage has a knock-on effect on 

manufacturers too. No matter how high quality a 

product is, it is only ever as good as its 

installation, meaning a skilled workforce is 

crucial to ensuring a quality build. In light of this, 

manufacturers are playing an increasing role and 

looking to support apprentices and training in 

whatever way possible. 

Recognising this, throughout 2018 CUPA 

PIZARRAS has put a great emphasis on 

supporting apprentices within the slate roofing 

industry, through product and tool supply as well 

as apprentice and award sponsorships. 

At the beginning of 2018 the company committed 

to supporting a group of apprentices from 

Lincolnshire-based, roofing company, The Roofing 

Corporation. The support includes providing all 

three apprentices with CUPA PIZARRAS’ natural 

slate for training purposes, slate roofing tools, 

CUPA PIZARRAS’ branded clothing and an all 

expenses paid week trip to the company’s 

headquarters in Spain. 

The visit to Spain provided the apprentices with 

an overview of how CUPA PIZARRAS’ slate is 

quarried and produced, through a visit to one of 

the company’s 16 quarries, La Medua – the 

biggest natural slate quarry in the world. This 

was followed by a trip to one of CUPA PIZARRAS’ 

22 transformation centres where they watched 

the extracted pieces of slate being sawed, shaped 

and bevelled. In addition to this, they also got to 

meet the CUPA PIZARRAS marketing team and 

the Sales Director to get a full understanding of 

the company’s position and commitment to 

developing future apprentices. 

Additionally, CUPA PIZARRAS also sponsored the 

Roof Slating and Tiling heats of the CITB’s 

SkillBuild competition 2018 – one of the largest 

multi-trade competitions in the UK for 

construction trainees and apprentices. We 

supplied over 4,000 of the company’s natural 

slates to ensure that the young roofers competed 

with the best quality materials, as well as polo 

shirts and caps for all competitors to wear. 

With most employers tied up with the ins and out 

of the Apprenticeship Levy, manufacturers have a 

vital role to play in supporting apprentice schemes 

and awards with the future generations of roofing 

contractors. Ultimately, any progressions we 

continue to make in the production of slate will not 

make any difference if there isn’t someone there 

with the skills to install it. 

CUPA PIAZARRAS is supporting apprentices from The Roofing Corporation and took them to a quarry and its HQ in Spain. 

Contact CUPA PIZARRAS 

01312 253 111 

ww.cupapizarras.com/uk 

@CUPAPIZARRAS_en 


SEE US AT 

PROTAN BLUEPROOF – A ROOF FOR THE FUTURE 

CAN YOU AFFORD TO LET 

YOUR ROOF BE JUST A ROOF? 

A roof represents exciting opportunities 

for architects and property developers. 

If you are on top of a tall building and looking out over the 

urban landscape, you will see a lot of unutilised space. 

Architects and property developers can no longer afford to 

use the roof just to keep the rain and snow out and protect 

your contents. 

Using the roof for other functions creates additional values. 

These values not only allow for increased profits, but also 

add value to society at large and for the people living in 

and around these buildings. 

The roof can be a place where people can spend recreational 

time, grow flowers and encourage wildlife. The roof can 

also be utilised to solve other tasks that could be profitable 

for the building project, such as generating electricity with 

solar panels or taking control of heavy rainfall. 

Protan has developed a unique BlueProof roofing solution 

to avoid creating dead space on top of a building, enabling 

use that space for water attenuation. That is both smart 

and sustainable. The BlueProof system works equally well 

for new buildings and refurbishment projects, and can be 

combined with recreational areas, eco-friendly features 

and energy production. 

Protan BlueProof – coming to a roof near you soon. 

Safe 

Sustainable 

Cost effective 

Space efficient 

protan.co.uk

Opinion: Recruitment 

“A QUALIFIED WORKFORCE IS VITAL” 

Our future built environment is in the hands of our construction workforce, yet the industry 

itself is struggling to address its current skills shortage. Philip Fergusson, Managing Director 

at NCTS, a specialist training provider to the roofing sector, outlines why he feels skills and 

learning programmes are key to a flourishing building trade and workforce. 

Whether you’re a property owner or a 

contractor, employing tradespeople with 

the requisite skills to undertake a 

particular building project is of paramount 

importance. 

Poor workmanship could lead to a raft of issues 

which prove extremely costly to correct. There’s 

also a question of safety; builders who are not 

fully-trained in tasks they are assigned to carry 

out could be putting a building’s structural 

integrity at risk and in-turn, the health and 

wellbeing of the occupants. Incorrectly installed 

wall insulation, for instance, is liable to lead to 

damp and mould, which if left untreated could 

cause respiratory problems in those exposed to 

such areas. 

On-site health and safety is also compromised 

by the presence of insufficiently-trained 

workers. An entire team of roofers, for example, 

could be at risk of injury or worse by a single 

employee whose erroneous work practices are 

caused by a lack of understanding of HSE 

guidelines. 

A blue CSCS card should be seen as a badge of 

honour for site employees who carry one. It 

informs a client or contractor that they have 

achieved a construction-related NVQ or SVQ level 

2, or completed an employer-sponsored 

apprenticeship. Enrolling on a Basic Competency 

Programme (BCP) or an On-Site Assessment and 

Training (OSAT) course, both of which are offered 

by NCTS, is a first step to achieving a Level 2 

NVQ and an industry-recognised qualification. 

Such certification provides peace of mind for the 

client that their building project is in safe, 

experienced hands. 

Evolve or dissolve 

Construction materials and 

practices are continuously 

evolving. As a consequence, 

those who fail to adapt to 

industry change and learn new 

skills risk being left behind. 

Confidence boost 

An industry-recognised qualification is not only 

looked upon favourably by a potential employee; 

it instils huge confidence in the holder. 

An NVQ or CSCS accreditation represents 

personal achievement and can act as a useful 

bargaining tool for the recipient when it comes to 

negotiating a salary or applying for a promotion. 

The importance of qualifications should never be 

underestimated in giving candidates a personal 

and professional lift. 

Taking the initiative 

According to several recent reports, the UK 

construction industry will need approximately 

400,000 new workers every year until 2021 to 

meet the demand for new building projects. In the 

roofing industry, some experts are predicting that 

we will have a shortfall of some 100,000 skilled 

crafts people over that period and every trade 

sector is reporting a similar story. An alarming 

forecast, particularly with the government 

announcing plans to build 300,000 new 

properties per year to help solve England’s 

affordable housing crisis. Never has there been a 

greater need for companies such as NCTS, which 

is taking the initiative and doing its utmost to 

‘skill-up’ the workforce of tomorrow. 

The current construction skills shortage is due to 

Philip Ferguson, Managing Director at NCTS. 

workers retiring or leaving the 

industry and not being 

replaced. Therefore, a new 

generation needs to be 

encouraged to take up tools and 

join the sector if the country’s future 

building needs are to be met. This, 

however, will not be an easy task. In short, many 

of today’s youngsters feel a career in construction 

is a bit beneath them. In industry surveys carried 

out to ascertain a teenage perception of a 

construction-based career, building work meant 

low wages, lack of gender diversity and job 

security, and ‘being outdoors and getting dirty’. 

The construction industry urgently needs to sell 

itself to young people as a viable, fulfilling, longterm 

career option. 

One of the ways the building trade could become 

a more attractive proposition to potential new 

starters is to promote the training programmes 

that currently exist within the industry. 

Youngsters need to know that the support is in 

place to help them progress a building career 

that will not only be enriching in terms of the 

worthwhile work they will be carrying out, it 

could earn them a very good living that will stand 

them in good stead for the rest of their lives. The 

message needs to be driven home – there has 

never been a better time to begin a career in 

construction. 

Contact NCTS 

01480 501 011 

www.ncts.org.uk 

@NCTS_2017 


SEE US AT

Flat Roofing 

A NIGHT TO REMEMBER 

IKO Polymeric enjoyed a very successful night 

at this year’s SPRA Awards winning five 

awards with their projects demonstrating the 

best use of Single Ply. Working with DVC Roofing, 

the company was the winner of Best Detailing 

Award for their Goosecroft Lane project, a 

residential building based in Northallerton. 

This complex, multi-slope pitched roof is a great 

example of what can be achieved with good 

planning and a highly-trained workforce. Aesthetics 

were the key; therefore every single detail had to be 

spot on with no tolerance for short cuts. 

DVC Roofing’s installation team made sure that 

every element of the roof build-up was installed 

as neatly as possible to give the roof a crisp and 

neat finish on the standing seams. Tongue and 

groove type OSB deck, adhered vapour control 

layer and insulation coupled with careful loading 

of boards ensured a consistent bond and 

provided the roof with a superb finish. 

As well as being the winner of the Best Detailing 

category, IKO Polymeric was also highly 

commended in four other award categories: Best 

Innovation with Hinkley Point C Power Station 

Temporary Accommodation, Best Refurbishment 

and Best Sustainability with North Hertfordshire 

District Council (NHDC), and finally Best Safe 

Working with Rock House Sen School. 

IKO Armourplan was the choice of single ply 

membrane for all these winning projects and 

ticked many different boxes to match the specific 

requirements of each project. 

For the Hinkley Point C Power Station, IKO 

Polymeric worked with Marksman Roofing to 

produce prefabricated roofing sheets to 

waterproof a 10,000m² roof. 44 identical roof 

modules were manufactured offsite with 

Armourplan PSG membrane and shipped to the 

site for final installation. The modular 

manufacture methods provided up to 50% 

Contact IKO Polymeric: www.ikopolymeric.com 

reduction in the schedule compared to traditional 

build, assured levels of quality and minimal 

environmental impact. 

Working with Delomac Roofing, IKO Polymeric also 

showed great initiative with the refurbishment of 

NHDC Offices. The ‘Zero Defects on Handover’ 

target was achieved through successful supply 

chain cooperation and potential waste to landfill 

has been dramatically reduced by retaining the 

existing deck and using woodwool as a 

contributor to the required thermal upgrade. 

And lastly, thanks to NRA Roofing’s attention to 

Health & Safety issues during the installation of 

the pitched roof at Rock House SEN School, IKO 

Polymeric closed the night with five awards. 

EUROPE MOVE FOR PFC 

Perfect Finish Coatings (PFC), one of the 

biggest waterproofing contractors in the 

Gulf region with its HQ in UAE, Dubai, is 

proud to announce that it is expanding to Europe 

and initially starting operations in the UK. After 

establishing in Cambridge, PFC was chosen to 

carry out main waterproofing works at Thematic 

Districts on the Expo 2020 site, Dubai. The project 

was partially funded by English financial 

institutions, so PFC was perfectly matched to 

implement these works, having presence in the 

UK and UAE, as the UK presence was a 

requirement from the Expo authorities. Currently 

PFC has reached more than 1,000,000m² of 

successfully installed membrane, with a similar 

area of roofing to follow. 

Having a very successful track record of projects 

with big UK construction players like Laing 

O’Rourke, Kier, Balfour Beatty, Mace International, 

Maclaren, Khansaheb interserve, plus many more 

for more than 10 years in the UAE, the team at 

PFC is very confident of providing value in the UK 

market. 

A spokesperson for PFC explained: “We have 

strong project managers and engineers in our 

team, consisting of English and professionals 

from other countries, and we can involve them as 

well as a locally employed team in England in 

executing various complex projects. 

“The UAE has the presence of all well-known 

international construction chemicals 

manufacturers, and we at PFC have approved 

applicator certificates from all major brands like 

Sika Sarnafil, BASF, MAPEI, Fosroc, Kingspan and 

Stirling Lloyd, to name just a few. We have full 

support from their management to enter the UK 

Contact PFC: www.pfc-gulf.com 

market. We at PFC can execute any complex 

project using any known waterproofing system, 

starting from membranes like TPO, PVC and 

bitumen, to liquid spray applied Polyurea 

systems, brigde deck waterproofing and hot melt. 

“We are excited to make such an important step 

in the development of PFC globally and start our 

operations in Europe, and especially in the UK. 

We are looking forward to building relationships 

with main contractors and clients in the UK, and 

to show our strength and experience in delivering 

big complex waterproofing projects.” 


passionate about slate 

one name 

SEE US AT 

As the UK’s leading merchant of roofing products 

and services, we supply industry leading ranges 

of roofing slate, setting the benchmark in natural 

slate with our SIGA Natural Slate. 

SIGA carefully manages every step of the journey from the quarry 

to the roof, bringing you: 

■ Consistency of quality and supply 

■ Complete traceability 

■ Choice and variety 

■ Warranties up to 75 years 

With a wide range of accessories and fittings, including: 


TIMBER SPECIALISTS 

Visit your local SIG Roofing branch for more info or find 

out more at www.sigroofing.co.uk 


FLAT ROOFING 

INDUSTRIAL ROOFING

Flat Roof Falls 

FALLS IN CONCRETE FLAT ROOFS – 

TAPERED INSULATION OR SCREED? 

By Daniel Bosworth, Design Manager at SIG Design & Technology. 

Cut to Falls is often the most expensive part 

of the roof system and we’re often asked 

how to achieve affordability. It might be 

possible to reduce costs by engaging in 

consultation and / or discussion with specialists 

at an early design stage to investigate 

alternatives and their benefits and impacts on 

methodology, buildability, sequencing and 

interfaces. 

As roofing designers, we enjoy the challenge of 

making roofs work harder and be more cost 

efficient. There is a balance to consider between 

the product cost per square or cubic metre, the 

labour input and the time or sequencing benefits 

associated with each of the options. 

“As roofing designers, 

we enjoy the challenge 

of making roofs work 

harder and be more 

cost efficient” 

Falls are introduced into a concrete flat roof 

mainly by: 

• Putting the fall in the structure. 

• Putting the fall in a screed. 

• Putting the fall in the insulation. 

While each roof is different, if you can introduce 

falls in the structure, this can be the simplest, 

most cost-effective option. 

1. Introduce falls in the roof structure 

if possible 

If you can put falls into the flat roof structure 

rather than rely on screed or tapered insulation, 

do so. Falls in structure are usually very easy 

with precast concrete roofs, with 

steel frame and metal decking, 

and with many timber structures. 

So why don’t all roofing projects 

put the falls in the structure? 

It may be for ease of initial design, 

but this can lead to issues during 

installation. 

Height clashes with door thresholds or reduced / 

non-compliant upstand heights at parapets which 

can cause delays, cost time and money, and 

achieve a sub-standard result. 

It might be a misunderstanding of the term “flat”, 

but we sometimes need to explain to customers 

that there are minimum falls required by BS 

6229:2003, even if manufacturers are happy to 

“accept” zero falls. 

Or it may just be an oversight. However, if the 

holistic approach of detailing all interfaces based 

on 100% compliance is undertaken early enough, 

then costs, time and mistakes can all be 

minimised. 

2. Screed is heavy 

Laying a screed over a flat roof structure to 

introduce falls is sometimes a simple practical 

solution. However, screed is a heavy, dense 

material, and therefore requires consideration in 

the structural calculations. It may impact on 

overall design. 

Installed by wet trades, standard screeds can 

have drying times in excess of 100 days. Even 

quick drying screeds require a minimum of 

approximately four hours and often substantially 

longer. Consider the pros and cons of using 

screeds within your project. 

Daniel Bosworth is Design Manager at 

SIG Design & Technology. 

3. But tapered insulation 

can also be expensive 

Manufacturers of tapered insulation 

argue that it costs less per m² than 

screed. Insulation is much lighter than screed 

and therefore may save on structural costs. It is 

also quicker to install and allows for the creation 

of falls and satisfying the thermal performance of 

the roof. 

However, tapered insulation isn’t always going to 

be the cheapest option. In a large roof with very 

long runs, or in a complicated roof, tapered 

insulation can be less attractive and is not 

always the best use of space either. 

“Screed doesn’t only 

serve the purpose of 

introducing falls, it also 

acts as a smoothing 

surface, evening out 

the bumps in concrete 

beam and plank roof 

constructions” 

Consider the bigger picture 

By omitting the screed layer at a school in 

Twickenham, SIG Design & Technology was able 

to save our client thousands of pounds in costs 

caused by the additional weight and drying time, 

and time for the wet trades to install it. We were 

only able to do this by being asked to undertake 

“value engineering” at an early stage by the design 

team and were happy to do so to ensure 


Go Further with SupaLite 

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Flat Roof Falls 

the right outcome for everyone. 

Screed doesn’t only serve the purpose of 

introducing falls, it also acts as a smoothing 

surface, evening out the bumps in concrete beam 

and plank roof constructions. 

We also worked with the concrete plank 

manufacturer to increase both the accuracy of the 

manufacturing tolerances of the planks used to 

create the roof structure, and of the installed 

planks, sufficient that screeding was no longer 

necessary. 

The requirement to improve dimensional 

tolerances in the concrete planks had a minor 

influence on their cost, but were far offset by the 

savings in time and money omitting the screed. 

Involve your roofing designers early 

Whatever your flat roof problem, give the task to 

“Screed is a heavy, dense material, and therefore 

requires consideration in the structural 

calculations. It may impact on overall design” 

Above and below: SIG Design & Technology’s client undertook a major building programme at a school in Twickenham which 

totalled over 2000m² and spanned four different roofs, as well as requiring two different finishes from IKO. By improving the roof 

structure, SIG Design & Technology was able to save the client thousands of pounds. 

dedicated specialists early in the design process. 

They might save you money you can put to better 

use elsewhere in the building. 

SIG D&T has put together an eight step guide to 

identify the challenges and ensure that a roof’s 

design meets a building’s requirements. 

Our know-how is just part of the service that is 

provided free to customers. Visit: 

Contact SIG Design & Technology 

0844 443 4778 

www.singleply.co.uk/perfectroof/ 

@SIGDesignTech 


LIQUID 

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0330 058 0668 I info@soprema.co.uk 

www.soprema.co.uk

Blue Roofs 

WATER ATTENUATION: “UTILISE THE 

5TH FACADE” 

Daniel Ashley, Managing Director of Protan UK, talks blue roofs and the company’s new 

offering... 

Ok, don’t knock the weather, if it didn’t 

change once in a while 9/10 of people 

couldn’t start a conversation! With the 

recent severe weather warnings and floods in the 

UK there is a lot to talk about, so let’s wade 

through some of the issues! 

crime and flooding! It’s not just urbanisation, but 

pipe capacities and impermeable surfaces. There 

are two solutions; a) Upgrade the pipe system or, 

b) Temporary storage of rainwater. Either way we 

need good, efficient and sustainable solutions for 

both the existing and future situation. 

Climate change in the UK 

Over the past 100 years the intensity of UK 

precipitation has increased during winter, and to 

a lesser extent also during spring and autumn. 

This has been accompanied by more frequent 

spells of very wet weather and an increase in 

total precipitation, at least during the last 40 

years. 

There is now a one-in-three chance of record 

rainfall hitting parts of England and Wales each 

winter according to a new Met Office study which 

highlights the risk of major flooding as the climate 

warms. The researchers warned that global 

warming would change the risk of 

extreme weather and suggested 

politicians should bear this in mind 

when planning to protect the public, 

businesses and infrastructure. With 

this in mind, at Protan we have 

introduced a new product in the UK; 

BlueProof. 

Problems with urbanisation 

We have to face the facts; the world 

population is going to rise from 7 

billion to 9 billion by 2050! 

Population growth, coupled with climate change 

is going to cause a big problem for our cities, with 

fewer than 20 cities of 1 million or more people a 

century ago to 450 cities today! With increasing 

urbanisation comes problems of density, 

inadequate infrastructure, pollution, congestion, 

Protan UK also stock a complete 

range of accessories to offer a 

total solution. 

Water attenuation 

There are existing and well know attenuation 

solutions; Attenuation tank, Rain beds, 

Attenuation pipes and Green Roofs 

(intensive/extensive) 

But at Protan we believe there is also a different 

way of managing rainwater: utilise the 5th Façade 

and control the water where it hits first! 

So, what is a blue roof? It’s a new way of holding 

back storm water. 

Protan BlueProof is a roof that is designed 

specifically to store water from rainfall. A blue 

roof coupled with storm water 

collection (rain water harvesters, 

etc.) has a number of benefits 

which include: rainwater 

attenuation to mitigate runoff 

impacts and storage for reuse 

(toilet cisterns, washing machines 

etc.). 

Blue Roofs can; a) include open 

water surfaces, b) storage within or 

beneath a porous media modular 

surface or c) below a raised decking 

surface or cover. 

A Blue Roof is calculated to its bearing load 

capacity and its designed flow-rate to meet 

design requirements. 

The roof is installed and the water is temporarily 

Blue roofs address rainfall at the point of contact. 

stored on the roof and is gradually released into 

the sewer system. Therefore a blue roof is a roof 

system which allows rainwater to build up on the 

roof, reducing or potentially eliminating the need 

for other attenuation methods. 

BlueProof 

Protan has designed a special membrane for use 

in blue roof application; Protan BP. Protan BP is 

designed to be extra robust with its extra strong 

textile layer, giving higher tensile strength 

properties compared to other manufacturers. To 

complement the Protan BP membrane, Protan UK 

also stock a complete range of accessories to 

offer a total solution. 

Contact Protan UK 

01925 658 001 

www.protan.co.uk 

@ProtanUK 


Easy-Trim are proud to announce that we are BS8612 

compliant on our range of Dry Fix Products. We didn’t 

want you to just take our word for it though so instead 

we have assured full compliance through rigorous, 

independent testing by the Building Research 

Establishment – BRE, a world leading, independent 

research & testing centre. 

Ridge Roll 

Manufactured with a 

hydrophobic mesh that allows the 

roof to breathe whilst repelling water 

Batten Straps 

Fleixible straps which 

wrap around the batten 

for improved stability 

Ratchet Clips 

These flat profile ratchet clips 

incorpore more teeth for rapid 

installation 

Unions 

Manufactured from high 

grade polypropylene & 

colour matched to the tile 

of your choice 

What’s In Your Box? 

We’re BS 8612 Compliant....is your Ridge Kit? 

t 0845 034 6008 f 0845 034 6010 

12B Metcalf Drive, Altham Industrial Estate, Altham, 

Lancashire, BB5 5TU, Great Britain 

www.easy-trim.co.uk 

Manufacturing Business of the Year 

& High Growth Business of the Year

Roofing Updates 

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

KLOBER SAILS THROUGH TEST 

Klober has put its Uni-Click and Contract dry verges through a variety of tests to demonstrate how both comply with BS 8612. 

BS 8612 Dry-fixed Ridge, Hip, Verge and Valley Systems for Slating and Tiling defines tests to determine mechanical resistance to 

wind load and shows how specifiers should use data from these tests to verify whether a product is suitable or not, given the 

wind exposure of the location under consideration. 

The Standard also sets down a test for ridge-roll products to measure whether they can meet the profile of the roof tile at ridges and 

hips without breaking or splitting. A third test checks whether roof verges shed the water away from the surface of the wall to avoid 

staining and damp issues. Under the watchful eye of technicians at the company’s technical centre, both verge types were put through their paces. For the water 

leakage test both verge types were laid on the rain-screening rig in accordance with the manufacturer’s laying instructions using Redland Mini Stonewold concrete 

tiles at a batten gauge of 335mm (75mm headlap). They were tested in accordance with the standard, this being a pitch of 22° and a flow rate of 2l/min for a 

period of 10 minutes. For the wind load test an upward force was exerted on the tile adjacent to the verge via a wire attached to the tile. The force is increased 

slowly to replicate wind gusts and to test the mechanical fixing of the verge. In both cases the dry verge products easily performed to the satisfaction of the 

Standard. In fact, in the mechanical resistance test, the tile adjacent to the verge snapped while the verge remained firmly fixed! www.klober.co.uk 

A RETURN TO ROOFLIGHT ROOTS 

To facilitate the growing demand for rooflights, Coxdome has enhanced its stock range of 

off-the-shelf rooflights to permit speedy delivery within 24 hours if required to its 

merchants network across the UK. 

Coxdome has become one of the leading brands associated 

with quality rooflight solutions. Manufactured in PVCu and glass 

the systems have myriad opportunities to provide individual 

rooflight and roof glazing architectural designs. 

“Coxdome has been a popular choice amongst architects, specifiers and builders for many years due 

to its reliability and availability,” said Jim Lowther, Head of Sales. “We felt that it was important to 

expand the choice to our existing and prospective customers via our reliable supplier network so that 

we could ensure the highest quality rooflights were easily available.” www.coxdome.co.uk 

PRATER PASSES UNIVERSITY TEST 

Prater is currently delivering a complete roofing package for the Centre Buildings of the 

London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE). 

Prater was appointed by Mace and the project is part of a £120m 

redevelopment programme due for completion in April 2019. 

Work is already underway and Prater’s scope of works includes installing inverted waterproofing 

systems to all terraces and roof levels. In addition, a number of finishes including Moordale 

Paving, and both green and brown roofing will help the building to achieve its requirement for a 

clear, sustainable focus. As part of the roofing package, Prater will also provide a variety of 

bespoke planter systems for a number of terrace levels. www.prater.co.uk 

FULL RANGE ON NEW WEBSITE 

The National Domelight Company (NDC) has launched a new website showcasing its extensive 

range of smoke vents, making it even easier to find the right solution for your project. 

NDC has launched a new website www.smokevent.co.uk 

With 50 years of experience, the NDC team keeps up-to-date with the latest regulatory changes 

to advise you on the most suitable solution for your development and ensure compliance. NDC’s 

smoke vents – also referred to as ventilation rooflights or automatic opening vents (AOVs) – are 

stocked in the UK for fast delivery. The range includes four NDC brands: Astroglaze, Solarglaze, 

Stardome, and Thermodome, plus units supplied by Coxdome. www.smokevent.co.uk 


LIFT THE LID ON SMOKE & HEAT 

Forming part of the Brett Martin Mardome Rooflight range, the fully-certified Mardome Trade Smoke Vents deliver 

maximum fire safety by allowing smoke and heat to escape, whilst bringing natural ventilation and an 

abundance of natural light into both new build and refurbished buildings. 

Allowing specifiers to source both rooflight and smoke vent products from a single supplier, Mardome Trade 

Smoke Vents are individual polycarbonate dome rooflights intended for installation on flat or low pitch roofs of all 

modern building types to provide natural smoke and heat exhaust ventilation and comfort. 

Tony Isaac, at Brett Martin, commented: “With a fire safety strategy a critical requirement in all buildings, 

Mardome Trade Smoke Vents provide essential smoke clearance in the event of a fire, reducing heat build-up 

and allowing occupants time to evacuate the building. This system also provides natural ventilation 

and delivers significantly more natural daylight into the spaces beneath the rooflight.” 

www.brettmartin.com 

Top: Smoke Vent Tall Kerb without 

Wind Deflector. Left: Smoke Vent with 

DF Kerb. 

WORKWEAR: FREEDOM OF MOVEMENT 

The Autumn Workclothes Brochure from Snickers showcaes the superb new clothing styles coming your way to 

make working in cooler weather so much easier and comfortable. 

There’s 37.5 high-tech undergarments, plus jackets, trousers and accessories added to the RUFFWork, FLEXIWork and 

ALLROUND clothing families for both professional craftsmen and women, as well as the range of Hi-Vis garment 

collection for maximum safety and wellbeing. 

The clothes deliver superb functionality, comfort, protection and are equipped for any task. www.snickersworkwear.co.uk 

GLENDYNE’S NEW GUARANTEE 

Cembrit, is now offering an impressive 75-year durability guarantee for its Glendyne 

natural slate range. 

Glendyne is a high-quality slate that combines top performance with all the inherent beauty of 

natural slate, making it the natural choice for specifiers and roofers. “Free from oxidising metallic 

inclusions, clays, carbonates or weaker seams, the natural strength of Glendyne is enhanced by 

selection techniques that choose the best quality rock to produce the finest, most durable roofing 

slates,” commented Ged Ferris, Marketing Manager for Cembrit. www.cembrit.co.uk 

TOP MARKS FOR SPECMASTER 

Employing the Redland SpecMaster service has enabled Wigan Metropolitan Borough 

Council (MBC), which manages and maintains 22,000 homes, to benefit from a 15-year 

guarantee and avoid costly extras when it re-roofed 40 properties on one of its estates 

in Kitt Green. 

The scheme was completed with the 50 Double Roman tile in 

Tudor Brown and Innofix Clips used to fix the tiles. 

This professional specification not only avoided unsightly and expensive detailing, but also 

accelerated the roofing programme through introducing the Innofix Clip, the award-winning tile 

fixing developed by the company. www.innofixclip.co.uk 


Roofing Updates 

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

MAC ROOFING WINS BIG 

MAC Roofing dominated this year’s IMA Awards at a luncheon held at the IoD, London, in June. 

The IMA (Intelligent Membrane Association) is BMI’s network of Icopal-approved contractors, and this year 

members vied for awards across six product categories. MAC Roofing picked up three awards in the Eco Activ, 

Single Ply and Liquid Waterproofing categories for projects at Alexander Palace, the Menai Science Park in 

Bangor and the R7 mixed-use building in Kings Cross, London. 

The IMA Awards were held at the Institute of Directors 

Mitie Tilley (Bristol), Tandragee Roofing and Avonside (Worthing) won the Reinforced Bitumen, Green Roof and FTP/Decra Metal Tiles categories respectively. 

Mitie Tilley (Bristol) achieved a high quality installation at 800 Aztec West in North Bristol, Tandragee Roofing secured its win with IQ Elgin Place, a new build 

student accommodation project while Avonside (Worthing) completed the Cowfold Community & Sports Pavilion to top its category. Mitie Tilley’s Mitch 

Ashmead picked up the Craftsman of the Year award most notably for his very detailed work on the 800 Aztec West project. 

This year there was an additional award for an outstanding contribution for services to the IMA. This went to Neil Harrison, the IMA Chairman, in recognition of 

over 22 years of service and dedication to the association and the roofing industry in general. www.icopal.co.uk 

FIRESTONE’S FASHION SHOW 

Firestone Building Products’ RubberGard EPDM single ply roofing membrane is set to 

ensure fashion fans enjoy a dry and comfortable shopping environment after a roof 

refurbishment at Matalan’s Killingworth Centre store in Newcastle-Upon-Tyne. 

DAR Roofing was brought in to carry out a roofing refurbishment after the original plastic 

roofing membrane had lost its elasticity and started to split causing leaks, and having used 

Firestone’s RubberGard EPDM membrane on previous largescale retail environment projects, 

DAR recommended the same approach for the Matalan store. www.firestonebpe.co.uk 

COST CONTROL SOLUTION 

Chalkstring has launched its innovative cost control software giving sub-contractors the 

tools to maximise margin, take on more construction projects with the same resource, 

improve productivity and reduce waste. 

The cloud-based software enables users to price, deliver and control all the financial and 

operational aspects of a project, both off-site and onsite through one programme. Chalkstring 

also streamlines activities like variation orders and automates manual processes such as 

generating applications for payment. www.chalkstring.com 

WATERSIDE AUTHENTICITY 

CUPA PIZARRAS’ CUPA 18 roofing slates have been used on four buildings of Berkeley’s 

The Waterside regeneration development. 

CUPA 18 has a smooth matt surface and is known for its strength 

and durability. 

Located on the site of the former Royal Worcester porcelain factory, the development has strict 

planning requirements. The natural slate product was chosen for its appropriate appearance to 

integrate with the industrial Victorian architecture in this location. CUPA 18 slate was chosen 

for the roofing of blocks 12, 15, K1 and K2 of the most recent stage of project, which has been 

progressing in phases over the last decade. www.cupapizarras.com/uk 


Innovative upgrade & refurbishment solutions for profiled fibre cement or metal roofs & cladding 

SEE US AT 

Fragile roofs are only unsafe 

if you walk on them. 

Replace rooflights and sheets from below with Fixsafe. 

Figures published by the Health & Safety Executive show that falls through fragile roof 

materials caused over one quarter of fatal accidents in the construction industry. 

Fixsafe addresses the problem and is playing a major role in reducing this statistic. 

Fixsafe allows sheets to be replaced from below, eliminating the need to access fragile 

roofs and thereby greatly increasing site safety. By removing the requirement for costly 

safety netting, roof staging or external scaffolding, on-site time is reduced and access 

equipment costs are minimised. 

Replacing rooflights from below is an HSE recommended method and complies with 

Regulation 9 of the Work At Height Regulations 2005. Protect your roofers and yourself and 

your team by repairing or replacing rooflights and roof sheets with Fixsafe. 

We also offer: • Insulated rooflights for energy-saving upgrades and refurbishment 

• Lightweight over-roofing for cost-effective roof refurb with minimal disruption. 

For details, please call us on 01543 687300 or visit www.filon.co.uk 

Filon Fixsafe allows replacement rooflights 

or roof sheets to be installed from below, 

avoiding the need to access fragile roofs 

Filon Products Ltd, Unit 3 Ring Road, Zone 2, Burntwood Business Park, Burntwood, Staffs WS7 3JQ

Fastener Tech 

INSTALLATION: LET’S TALK TORQUE 

In the latest instalment of his series of articles looking at the key issues concerning fixings 

for roofing and cladding projects, Brian Mack, Technical Business Development Manager at 

EJOT UK, looks at the installation issues concerning correct torque for self-drilling or selftapping 

fasteners. 

As original manufacturers, we are asked on a 

daily basis about correct installation torque 

for a self-drilling or self-tapping fastener – 

torque being the rotational force applied to the 

fastener. Sounds simple enough, but when you stop 

to consider the sequence of installation stages that 

one single high performance fastener is designed to 

deliver, then a greater depth of understanding is 

beneficial to all involved. 

A self-drilling fastener installs through all of the 

operational stages described above, and the 

torque required is different at the drilling stage, 

tapping stage, run-through and finally the 

tightening stage. The component materials that 

the fastener is installing and the substrate – plus 

any sealants can all influence these variations of 

installation torque. The dynamics and variability 

– even within the same application – simply calls 

for knowledge-driven control by the installer for 

the fastener to then deliver the long-term 

performance benefits that it was designed to do. 

Setting an installation gun to a tightening torque 

that may be lower than the tapping or drilling 

torque is a typical example. This is especially the 

case for applications such as the installation of 

composite panels, where the tightening torque of 

the washer against the panel face is much lower 

than the generated drilling and tapping torques. 

So how do we legislate for these variables and 

what tools can aid correct installation? 

Manufacturers’ guidance is the first port of call. 

This will generally include laden speed (the speed 

of the installation tool when a load is added) and 

the end load, (the load placed upon the 

installation tool during the installation process), 

and most importantly that the fastener is 

installed by depth – depth 

being how far the fastener is 

installed. This is usually 

gauged by the compression 

of the EPDM of the bonded 

washer. This level of control 

can be achieved initially by sight; 

observing the reaction of the washer as it 

seats against the installed material. Many screw 

guns are, or can be, supplied with a depth 

sensing nose piece. These can be set to ensure 

the correct compression of the washer and 

therefore the optimum clamping load of the 

fastener in application. 

Accurate installation 

There are a wide range of electric and battery 

powered tools on the market, therefore checking 

the performance and speed of these is 

imperative. A screwgun should be selected with a 

speed suggested by the fastener manufacturer 

and suitable for the drive tools – with a clutch to 

disengage the drive. A tool that can be supplied 

with depth sensing nose pieces that works with 

the clutch will ensure fast, accurate installation. 

A torque set installation tool can only be used in 

applications where the repeatability of the 

application is constant and where the installation 

tool’s torque setting parameters are in suitable 

increments. As you can imagine this is very 

limited and requires in-depth torque analysis of 

the application to locate the correct torque 

setting. 

Left: Setting the nose is achieved by 

pushing the fastener into the drive 

socket as far as the socket will go, 

retracting it back into the body of 

the screwgun. The nose-piece is 

then adjusted so that the outer 

edge of the washer is visible. 

Impact drivers are finding their way onto 

construction sites and may give the impression 

that they can quickly install self-drilling and selftapping 

fasteners with ease. 

However, the torque generated by such 

tools is at least 10x – and in some instances as 

much as 100x – higher than that required to 

install the fastener. In short, the installation 

torques cannot be calibrated and matched to the 

parameters of the fastener. This can lead to 

excessive stresses within the fastener and 

stripping of the fastener in the application. It can 

also reduce the back-out / break-loose torque to 

very low figures – reducing clamping loads and 

even compromising the long-term performance of 

the application. Therefore they should be avoided. 

The same applies for the setting of through-bolts 

and concrete anchors in general, as the 

maximum torque generated by such tools can 

range from 40Nm to 950Nm. These types of 

anchor require a calibrated torque wrench set to 

the manufacturer’s recommendations. 

The message here is clear; when selecting an 

installation tool, select the optimum one to suit 

the installation parameters of the fastener type 

specified, and carefully follow the manufacturer’s 

installation instructions. Manufacturers have a 

depth of knowledge – if you need advice, talk to 

the technical team! 

Contact EJOT UK 

01977 687 040 

www.ejot.co.uk 

@EJOTUK_Building 


SEE US AT

Project Focus 

LARGE PROJECT SEES DIFFERENT 

MATERIALS COMBINE EFFECTIVELY 

Total Contractor hears how collaboration helped this project run smoothly... 

Roofdec has chosen rainscreen support and 

fastening solutions from SFS for major 

new building projects as part of its record 

£9m cladding contract for the Thorpe Park Leeds 

retail and leisure development. 

The new retail and leisure park is a key part of a 

126,000m² mixed-use development which is said 

to be one of the most significant projects of its 

kind in east Leeds for decades. 

Working with main contractor GMI Construction, 

who have been instrumental in the Thorpe Park 

Leeds project since it started in 1999, Roofdec 

was tasked with installing a mix of roofing and 

cladding elements for the development’s new 

retail units, cinema and other leisure facilities. 

Roofdec’s contract involved 26,000m² of roofing, 

with an external envelope utilising highspecification 

cladding including the Kingspan 

Benchmark Karrier system and 

granite and limestone 

rainscreen. In addition, 

4,500m² of 

aluminium 

rainscreen 

and 3,000m² 

of stainless 

steel panels 

complete 

the contract, 

plus column 

casings 

together with 

other areas of 

Rodeca and aluminium 

plank systems. 

Two Nvelope rainscreen support systems were 

used for the façade installation. The Nvelope NV1 

system supports Tiles International (TI) 20mm 

“We are delighted to 

have been appointed to 

help in the 

construction of a 

number of major new 

buildings here and 

partner with the 

Nvelope & SFS teams” 

Granite and Jura Beige Limestone panels, which 

works in conjunction with a TI horizontal carrier 

rail. This back frame configuration minimises the 

number of brackets needed per square metre for 

greater efficiency without compromise. NV1 is 

also used to install Sotech Optima TFC rainscreen 

panels, which are finished in Anodised Regency 

Gold and Polished Stainless Steel. 

Additional elevations feature 12mm 

Marley Equitone Natura 

rainscreen which was 

installed using the 

Nvelope NV3 

support 

system. This 

provided a 

secret-fix 

solution for 

excellent 

visual appeal 

of the finished 

façade. 

The high degree of 

adjustability of both NV1 

and NV3 enabled Roofdec’s 

installers to achieve a superior quality installation 

Above: Installation of cladding using the Nvelope rainscreen 

support system on one of the buildings which form the new 

Thorpe Park Leeds retail and leisure park. 

with minimum hassle. All Nvelope support 

systems are ‘designed for architects and built for 

installers’, which means they enable architectural 

visions to come to life without complexity and 

deliver long-term integrity to match the design life 

of the building envelope. 

For the fixing of key elements of the façade, high 

performance austenitic stainless steel fasteners 

were specified. Here SFS products were selected, 

including fasteners featuring a durable gold 

powder-coated finish to complement the stunning 

façade panels which are visible from the nearby 

M1 motorway. Additional SFS stainless steel 

fasteners were used to attach cladding panels 

with a mirrored finish, again to deliver optimum 

aesthetics. 

Roofdec Managing director Jon Barnes Jnr said: 

“Thorpe Park Leeds is a significant development 

which is important for the future economic 

development of Leeds and the wider city region. 

We are delighted to have been appointed to help 

in the construction of a number of major new 

buildings here and partner with the Nvelope and 

SFS teams to deliver a high quality result for the 

client. 

“It really has been a team effort from the 

architects, design, supply shain, management 

and obviously the operatives installing the 

various complex specifications throughout the 

project. It is a credit to everyone involved at the 

standard of quality achieved and certainly one all 

parties can be proud of.” 

Contact SFS 

0113 2085 500 

www.sfsintec.co.uk 

@SFSintec 


ROYAL SEAL OF APPROVAL 

The first external fully adhered vapour permeable air barrier with full BBA certification has been installed as a 

solution for airtightness, weather protection and breathability at the new administrative headquarters of the 

Royal College of Pathologists in London. 

The Wraptite air barrier system from the A. Proctor Group is the only selfadhering vapour permeable air barrier certified by 

the BBA and combines the important properties of vapour permeability and airtightness in one self-adhering membrane. This 

approach saves on both the labour and material costs associated with achieving the demands of energy efficiency in buildings. Designed by architects Bennetts 

Associates the new £15 million eight-storey building on Alie Street in Whitechapel will become the new home for the college and features a double-height reception 

area, flexible office space, a library, meeting and conference rooms and a 200-seat auditorium. Gilbert-Ash has been chosen to build and manage the project which 

aims to reach BREEAM Excellent assessment. 

Cladding contractor Windell installed the Wraptite System as an external air barrier and alternative to a traditional standard breather membrane. The use of a 

standard membrane would have required mechanical fixing and provided some challenges given the concrete structure of the building. As an alternative, 

Wraptite self-adhesive membrane was applied externally, quickly and easily to the external envelope in continuous pieces. www.proctorgroup.com 

HULTAFORS ACQUIRES HELLBERG SAFETY 

The Hultafors Group – which owns Snickers Workwear, Solid Gear Safety Footwear and Hultafors Tools – has 

acquired Hellberg Safety. 

Hellberg Safety is a specialised supplier of PPE Equipment which includes highly advanced hearing protection 

products, face protection and communication solutions for personal protection. David Clark, Managing Director of the 

Hultafors Group UK, said: “We are delighted with this acquisition given that Hellberg PPE products complement the 

Snickers Workwear and Solid Gear Safety Footwear product portfolios perfectly – in particular the recently extended 

Snickers Workwear Hi-Vis working clothes range.” www.hellbergsafety.com 

Wraptite was used at the Royal College of 

Pathologists in London. 

BROCHURE BENEFITS 

New coffee table-style brochures showcasing Welsh Slate products for interior as well 

as exterior applications have been launched by the leading UK manufacturer. 

Available through www.welshslate.com, the eight-page brochures dispel the myth that Welsh 

Slate is just about roofing, with stunning photographs proving the product’s versatility for a wide 

range of uses. The exteriors brochure features copings and sills, as used at the ME Hotel in London, 

walling and cladding as used at the National Waterfront Museum, and many prestige private 

properties, paving, and roofing as used at York Racecourse and St Mary Abbots Church, London. 

PRESSING MATTERS 

CA Group Limited, one of the UK’s leading metal roofing and cladding systems 

manufacturers and installers, has invested in an EHT VarioPress bending machine from 

TRUMPF. Ordered to introduce higher levels of flexibility, the EHT VarioPress has reduced 

the number of processes required in the production of several key components. 

CA Group has invested in an EHT VarioPress bending machine. 

In line with a programme of ongoing investment in the latest technologies, CA Building 

Products, the company’s manufacturing division, was looking for a suitable press brake to 

produce the next generation of products at its Bishop Auckland facility. www.trumpf.com 


PIR Boards 

FIVE KEY BENEFITS OF PIR BOARDS 

By Kevin Bohea, Commercial Director at Recticel Insulation. 

The average UK household spends around £1,230 on fuel bills each year which can be up to 50% 

more than necessary due to the lack of energy saving measures being implemented in the home. 

Poor insulation is a major contributor to domestic energy wastage. To help combat this, the 

construction industry is increasingly turning to rigid foam PIR panels. Below I’ve listed five key benefits 

of insulation boards. 

“The panels are light 

and easy to transport 

as well as being simple 

to install” 

Closed cell structure 

•PIR insulation board has a closed cell structure 

that means it doesn’t absorb water. This allows 

the thermal performance and reliability of the 

panel to be retained over time. The panels are 

light and easy to transport as well as being 

simple to install, helping save on-site labour 

costs. 

Structural strength 

• Unlike fibrous insulation which can deteriorate 

over time when damp sets in, PIR insulation’s 

structural strength enables a consistent 

performance that will last the lifetime of a 

building, negating costly repairs and maintaining 

its thermal and soundproof qualities. 

Versatility 

• PIR insulation is also renowned for its flexible 

qualities, providing the ideal solution for a range 

of applications such as floors, 

walls, pitched and flat roofing. 

Secure fit 

• PIR solutions, such as our 

Eurowall+, feature a tongue-andgroove 

joint on the board’s four 

sides to ensure a tight, secure lock. It means 

Eurowall+ board increases protection against 

wind-driven rain which can cause other poorlyfitted 

products to deteriorate over time. 

Maximise space 

• Although mineral-based insulation is fairly 

flexible – it can be manipulated around wall ties, 

etc. – its propensity to degrade over time, 

particularly if damp sets-in, means rigid PIR 

board is increasingly seen as a preferable cavity 

insulation option. It has a long-term cost benefit, 

too. For mineral wool to attain the same level of 

Left: Kevin Bohea, Recticel Insulation. 

thermal performance as Eurowall+ 

board, it’s estimated 150mm-thick 

insulation would need to be 

installed, resulting in an accordant 

increase in the cavity wall size. 

Once the cavity width increases, wall-tie lengths 

have to be lengthened and window and door 

lintels expanded – the whole building process 

becomes more costly. 

With developers looking to fit as many homes 

onto allocated plots as possible, maintaining a 

100mm cavity in new buildings has become a 

necessity. Eurowall+ 90mm PIR board not only 

helps to achieve a 0.18 U-value in a 100mm 

cavity, the 10mm air gap makes for a less 

inconvenient fit for bricklayers when it comes to 

installing the insulation. 

Eurowall+ was used by Mentmore Homes in Gerrard’s Cross. 

Contact Recticel 

0800 085 4079 

www.recticelinsulation.co.uk 

@RecticelInsulUK 


SEE US AT

Insulation Updates 

REACH FOR THE STARLOCK 

Chris McGee, Managing Director at Lasercut.London Ltd, attended the FFX show earlier this year to 

purchase a Multi-Talent kit. 

He explained: “Regretfully FEIN wasn’t my first choice, however alternatives offered plug-in tools and the 

price was hard to justify for the potential usage it would see in my hands. After borrowing a FEIN product 

from a friend, I knew I had to add one to the ranks, so I decided to visit the FFX show in Kent with my 3- 

month-old boy. 

“I had a great chat to the FEIN team, and after testing I knew that the 12v Multi-Talent Kit was the right 

one for me. The Starlock system wowed me, as it was so easy to change cutters so quickly, and I could see how snuggly the tool held the piece, so I knew it 

would cut smoothly, and I purchased a ‘Best of E-Cut pack’ with it too! 

The Best of E-Cut pack is FEIN UK’s first ‘official’ value pack for its UK customers, offering an assortment of the best cutters that can be used commonly on 

typical applications faced by tradespeople ‘on the job’. This year, FEIN UK is proud also to have announced the launch of four more additional value packs. 

www.fein.com/en_uk/ 

SOUNDS LIKE A PLAN 

Isover’s Metac range of insulation has recently been tested to show that it can achieve 

outstanding noise reduction within pitched roof rafter applications. Independent testing, by the 

University of Salford, has found that in addition to excellent thermal performance, Metac can 

achieve a reduction of up to 49dB for externally generated airborne sound. 

Sarah Buchanan of Isover said: “Our 2 in 1 acoustic and thermal insulation solution, Metac, 

offers housebuilders the opportunity to add value and improve the acoustic performance of the 

houses they build, without adding additional cost.” www.isover.co.uk/metac2in1 

POSITIVE EVIRONMENTAL IMPACT 

RAVATHERM UK has boosted the environmental credentials of its POLYFOAM extruded 

polystyrene (XPS) insulation, achieving a BRE Certified Green Guide rating of A+ for all 

products manufactured at its Hartlepool factory. 

POLYFOAM XPS was the first extruded polystyrene 

product range to be independently assessed by BRE. 

The insulation has already achieved a BES 6001: Responsible Sourcing of Construction 

Products certification and has been issued Product-Specific Type 111 Environmental Product 

Declarations (EPDs) through BRE’s EN 15804 EPD Verification Scheme for products in the 

POLYFOAM Extra and Standard range. www.ravatherm.co.uk 

ALL THE RIGHT NOISES 

Thanks to a pioneering approach from ROCKWOOL that is based on acoustic performance 

test data and use of its BBA approved A1 rated RAINSCREEN DUO SLAB insulation 

product, the new Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn Express at London Heathrow Terminal 4 

will be providing visitors with a peaceful and tranquil stay when it opens later this year. 

Using test results from its Rainscreen Acoustic Reference Guide, and working closely with SD 

Samuels, ROCKWOOL was able to demonstrate the exceptional performance capabilities of its 

150mm RAINSCREEN DUO SLAB product for the hotel development project. www.rockwool.co.uk 


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 

Next Day Delivery in Mainland UK 

Over Half a Million Pounds Worth 

of Tiles in Stock 

Wider Range of Accessories 

compared to other Lightweight 

Roof System Companies 

New Range of Wall Soakers 

35% Extra Superior Base Coat 

PREMIUM 

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ROOF TILES 

superior natural stone finish 

registered 

Registered Details 

CERTIFICATE 17/5463 : ROSS ROOF GROUP 

ask for your free tile sample 

charcoal 

ember 

walnut 

50 Year 

TILE WARRANTY 

20 Year 

COATING WARRANTY 

UV Protection for 

Permanent Beauty 

Non Combustible 

Class A Fire Rating 

Marine Environments 

Weatherproof 

Lightweight 

Easy Installation 

High Wind and 

Hurricane Resistant 

Environmentally 

Sustainable 

50 Year Warranty 

on the Tile Product 

20 Year Warranty 

on the Tile Coating 

www.extralight.co.uk 

Tel: 01772 80 20 22 

Email: sales@extralight.co.uk 

Unit 4 | Croft Street | Preston | Lancashire | PR1 8ST

Brand Livery 

SIGN OF THE TIMES: MAKE SURE YOU 

MAKE THE RIGHT IMPRESSION... 

Before you choose sign writing or wrapping for your van livery, there are a few steps to take 

to make sure you project the right image for your company... 

It’s often said that people make snap 

judgments on character within seconds. 

While some impressions may be correct, 

others will be well off the mark. This means it’s 

imperative to ensure that anyone coming into 

contact with your company gets the right idea – 

first time; second chances rarely come along. 

Most think that building a business image 

requires the use of large design agencies and the 

costs that come with them. However, with a little 

thought you can do the job yourself and bring in 

the experts when you really need to. 

Your image 

Before you can do anything, you need to 

establish what the image is that you want to 

project. By way of example, banks want to be 

seen as conservative, IT companies want to be 

seen as innovative while you, as a roofer, 

clearly want to be seen as being reliable and 

competent. 

Know your customers 

It’s important to have an understanding of your 

potential customers so that you can build an 

image that matches how they view themselves. 

For this you need to know who your targets are, 

who they presently use and their typical budget. 

There’s no point marketing yourself as a highend 

roofer if the locality is cash strapped and 

you don’t travel; and if you’re aiming to serve 

large commercial clients your image will need 

“If you’re aiming to 

serve large 

commercial clients, 

your image will need to 

be different to that of a 

roofer working for 

home owners” 

to be different to that of a roofer working for 

home owners. 

Rivals 

You need to understand who your rivals are. Are 

they successful or struggling? Why are they in 

their position – what does their image say about 

them? Is it reputation, service range or price? Try 

and find the elements of their image that makes 

them successful and build on it, putting on a 

unique spin. 

So, if a rival focuses on, say, good installations, 

you need to do the same but build a reputation 

for returning promptly to fix any issues – word 

of mouth is both powerful and free. Certainly 

don’t attempt to meet the rival or their image 

head on – you’re unlikely to win if you’re a 

start-up. 

Building your image 

Next, you need a well-designed logo as this is 

the cornerstone of your identity since it’ll appear 

on your vans, website, cards and invoices, as 

well as on advertisements. As a graphical 

device it needs to convey the image that you 

want to project and as such, you will need 


SEE US AT 

Polyroof, in conjunction with industry trade associations including the 

LRWA and CITB, pioneered the Basic Competency Programme aimed at 

upskilling applicators of liquid applied roofing systems. Since its launch 

we’ve seen nearly 70 roofing operatives successfully complete the course 

and qualify to apply for a 3 Years Red Experienced Worker CSCS card. 

1 

2 

3 

Attend and successfully complete the BCP Training 

programme at Polyroof or a regional trainiong centre 

Receive your BCP Certificate with your unique BCP number 

Register for and pass the Working at Heights CSCS test at 

any approved body (if you don’t already have it) 

4 Apply for the 3 Years Red Experienced Worker Card 

If you’re a liquid roofing contractor looking for a more knowledgeable, 

competent and multi-skilled workforce then we’re here to help. 

0800 801 890 training@polyroof.co.uk 

EXPERTS IN LIQUID ROOFING

Brand Livery 

professional help. Remember, your company 

name might not make it immediately obvious 

what you do. 

While some graphic designers are very expensive 

to work with – you can make savings. Although 

the large graphic design studios will cost more, 

there are plenty of freelance graphic designers 

that will work on either an hourly or per job rate. 

You'll find plenty via Google. 

While it might appear to be an expense, don't 

skimp on a logo. Saving pennies here will cost far 

more in the long run because of the poor image a 

badly designed logo will communicate. 

Like any professional that you work with, be they 

an accountant, lawyer or designer, the better the 

brief the better the end result. In particular, you 

need to think about taglines, the use of colour, 

typefaces and the graphics employed. 

Taglines 

A tagline is a simple and catchy phrase that helps 

to set you apart from the rivals. Here you need to 

think about the key element of the image that is 

to be projected that will most appeal to your 

customers. A good tagline is a one-liner made up 

of six or seven words about the image. The tagline 

will help a designer with the rest of the brief. 

Colour 

Most aren’t colour blind so think about the 

colours to be used – blue, grey, darker greens 

tend to be quieter, more mature and conservative. 

On the other hand, reds, yellows, oranges and 

other bright colours tend to suggest pioneering, 

trendsetting, and creative. Look at the dominant 

colours in pharmacy logos – they say it all. What 

colours are appropriate to the image you've 

selected? Take advice but don’t be swayed by 

colours that you might like personally but that 

contradict your intended image. 

Typefaces 

The way the words are printed are important too. 

Consider the different and formal typefaces used 

on the web, in books and in newspapers – they’re 

“Liveries should be 

simple – too much 

clutter can be 

confusing and your 

message can be lost” 

very different to the simple alphabet handwriting 

typefaces used in party invitations, on tickets and 

in some adverts. 

Graphics 

The role of a designer is to be good at producing 

good graphical representations of the message 

that you want to convey. In using a (strong) 

graphic element in your logo, make sure that it is 

easy to understand. More importantly, ensure that 

any logo used gets your message across even if 

customers don’t necessarily understand the 

graphic itself. 

Use it everywhere 

Try to integrate your logo colours, typefaces and 

graphics into less obvious parts of the business. 

If your main logo colour is blue, then it should be 

part of your clothing – say a polo shirt or sweat 

top, and even internal furnishing and decorating 

schemes if you have premises. You need to 

subliminally use the image everywhere where 

your target customers might see it. If you have 

staff, make sure that they buy into the image 

you’ve created – what it’s trying to project, the 

values it represents and how it’s integrated into 

your business. 

Use it on your van 

Liveries should be simple – too much clutter can 

be confusing, and your message can be lost. Stick 

to easily identifiable images, names or logos and 

strong complementary colours and contact details 

should also be kept to a minimum with just a 

website address and contact number. The back of 

the van is often thought of as the best place for 

this information as it gives those travelling behind 

you the best chance of capturing the details. 

Some companies specify what area they are 

based in if they travel across a large area and 

want to attract customers far and wide. 

According to the Daily Telegraph, one study found 

that as many as 40% of tradespeople prefer their 

commercial vehicle to remain anonymous. 

Builders were the least likely to brand their vans, 

with 53% choosing not to, while 83% of roofers 

were happy to broadcast their job. 

When it comes to branding your van, there are 

two methods to consider; sign writing or 

wrapping. 

Sign writing used to mean an artist using paint 

and brushes, but now the same effect can be 

achieved with stencilled adhesive lettering on the 

panels of the van. The other method is a full or 

partial vehicle wrap with vinyl. 

This protects the paintwork method while turning 

the van into a mobile hoarding. Some firms are 

known to buy a white van as they hold value 

better but then immediately brand-wrap it to 

preserve the paintwork. Wraps have the added 

benefit of being easily replicated in the event of 

damage and are scalable and consistent if 

applying across multiple vehicles. 

The two methods achieve very different results, 

and the costs can vary widely in design and 

complexity, but as a rough guide, job-prices.co.uk 

found in a survey that a self-applied DIY 

signwriting to a medium-sized van (based on two 

to the rear doors, four to each side of the van, one 

to the front bonnet – logo incorporated into a 

basic design with text, phone number and web 

address) would cost £225+VAT; professional 

signwriting would cost £525+VAT; while a full 

wrap would cost £1500+VAT. Of course, these 

prices will vary according to size of the van and 

complexity of the wrap. 

Summary 

Spending some time and effort creating the right 

logo and image will pay handsome dividends. The 

key is to make your firm stand out and while cost 

can be saved by thinking things through first, you 

will need to engage a professional. 


Article heading 

Total Recruitment 

Sponsored by 

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Sponsored by 

DRY ROOFING PRODUCTS 

WE ARE RECRUITING 

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Contracts Manager & Estimator 

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Please contact Daniel Van Dok 

Email: 


6 338 

SEE US AT

August 2018

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