R11 Feb 32pp WEB

Refurb 

Feb 2019 issue R11 

retrofit 

magazine 

Stannah weaves tailored lift access in UK’s oldest silk mill 

Beware of increasing 

risk of fire 

Fire deaths in England have 

increased sharply over the 

last two years... 

Saving heat & space 

with Kingspan 

Raising homes to an 

Energy Performance 

Certificate rating of C 

Change is in the air 

The urgent need to specify 

compliant products that play 

a significant role in the process 

of safety 

page 

10 

page 

13 

page 

25

Feb 2019 issue R11 

Dear Reader, 

The first signs of Spring are 

beginning to show, bringing 

with them an exciting new 

edition of Refurb and Retrofit – 

the magazine with its finger on 

the pulse of all things retrofit. 

The Spring months are the 

epitome of regeneration, with 

growth, rejuvenation and 

renewal happening 

throughout nature. Even the 

word spring implies a sense of 

forward momentum; a spring 

being a sudden movement 

rapidly made upwards or 

forwards. 

In this issue we aim to shed 

light on some of the latest 

innovative products and 

technologies we can expect to 

see a lot more of in 2019, 

covering advancements with 

the fields of the external 

building envelope, interior 

refurbishment, heating, 

ventilation & indoor air quality, 

as well as doors, windows & 

fittings, lighting & electrical 

systems with an in-depth 

focus on rail refurbishment. 

Welcome to Refurb and 

Retrofit February. 

Yours Sincerely, 

Joe Bradbury 

Editor 

Refurb 

retrofit 

magazine 

12 Millions in UK at higher risk of illness due to damp in homes 

84 million Europeans live in homes that are too damp, causing respiratory 

illnesses such as asthma and COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), 

according to new research from the German institute Fraunhofer IBP. 

16 43% of British homes in dire need of refurbishment 

A shocking four in ten people (43%) in Britain live in homes which fail to 

meet the ‘Living Home Standard’ – a popular measure of what makes for an 

acceptable home. 

18 Parex at Kew Gardens 

A bespoke solution from Parex has contributed towards a major project to 

restore and revitalise “the World’s Greatest Glasshouse” at the Royal Botanic 

Gardens, Kew. 

21 Fit Show 2019 preview 

Foam tape sealant specialist ISO-CHEMIE stand (N35) will be marking 10 

years in the UK at the FIT Show 2019 with plans for an ‘exciting’ new 

partnership and displays of highperformance airtightness and energy 

efficiency solutions for windows and doors. 

31 Selectaglaze thermally enhances 19th Century Lodge... 

Built at the start of the 19th Century, the striking entrance lodge located in 

Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire has morphed into a comfortable living space 

with the assistance of Selectaglaze secondary glazing. 

Consulting Editor > Joe Bradbury 

editor@buildinsite.co.uk 

Advertising > Paul Barstow 

paul@buildinsite.co.uk 

Press Releases > 

press@buildinsite.co.uk 

Design > Ellie Rich 

design@buildinsite.co.uk 

Circulation 

circulation@buildinsite.co.uk 

Enquiries 0121 661 9484 

Publisher’s Statement. 

Printed in England. All rights reserved. No part 

of R&R may be reproduced or stored in a 

retrieval system or transmitted in any form 

without prior permission of the publisher. 

Whilst every effort is made to ensure the 

accuracy of editorial content, the editor and 

publishers do not accept responsibility for 

errors or loss and damage caused by any 

statements, claims or observations made by 

contributors, authors and their agents. 

BuildInsite Limited. Reg. No. 10260163 

Special features 

18 > Building Envelope 

22 > Interior Refurbishment 

26 > Kitchens, Bathrooms & Washrooms 

28 > Lighting & Electrical Systems 

30 > Doors, Windows & Fittings 

Front cover 

Stannah weaves tailored lift access in UK’s 

oldest silk mill 

A Stannah passenger lift is weaving tailored 

access throughout Whitchurch Silk Mill, a 

Grade II*-listed Georgian working watermill 

undergoing a £2.1m regeneration into a fully 

accessible, industrial heritage attraction. 

www.stannahlifts.co.uk 

For more information see page 22 

Feb 2019 R11 Refurb retrofit 03 

magazine

News 

Government backs plans to create new homes and jobs over next five years 

Plans for public-sector land to be developed, which aim to bring forward 10,000 new homes, 14,000 new jobs and save taxpayers 

£37million in running costs. 

Development plans which could see more than 10,000 new homes built across England and 14,000 new jobs created by 2024/25 are to 

be brought forward through a £15million government project. 

The One Public Estate programme was launched in 2013 to make better use of public-sector sites, free up space for new homes and 

create jobs. 

It encourages the emergency services, local councils and government departments to work more closely together by sharing sites and 

creating public-sector ‘hubs’ – where services are delivered in one place. So far, the programme has saved taxpayers £24million in 

running costs, created 5,745 new jobs and released land for the development of 3,336 new homes. 

The latest round of the programme will see money and support given to more than 100 local public-sector partnerships across England, 

to bring forward proposals for a range of new projects on public-sector sites. 

51% of homeowners say they tip 

tradesmen 

Research by Heat Insulation Ltd, a company offering grantbacked 

home insulation, suggests that 51% of homeowners 

regularly tip tradespeople, whereas the other 49% refuse. 

The people who are most likely to tip tradespeople are those 

aged between 45-64 and the least likely are 18-29-year olds, 

which on face-value may simply be down to disposable income. 

However, when those aged 18-29 who said they would not tip 

were asked why, the vast majority said it is because tradespeople 

charge more than enough. 

Ricky Swann, Managing Director of Heat Insulation Ltd, 

conducted the survey as he often hears of tradespeople on both 

sides, those being tipped and others saying they have never 

been tipped. He had this to say "It’s quite a controversial subject 

and although it’s nice to hear people get a tip as it often makes 

them happy, I don’t honestly believe anyone should expect it. A 

job is quoted and that is what a customer should pay". 

Alarm bells sound for construction as 

output plummets 

Rising costs and uncertainty relating to Brexit are to blame for 

the sharp drop in output growth in January 2019, the 

Federation of Master Builders (FMB) has said in response to the 

latest PMI data. 

The January 2019 PMI data revealed a fall from 52.8 in 

December to 50.6 in January, against the neutral reading of 

50.0. January data pointed to a loss of momentum for the UK 

construction sector, with business activity growth grinding to 

its weakest for ten months. 

Commenting on the results, Brian Berry Chief Executive of the 

FMB, said “The latest PMI data shows a slowdown in growth in 

construction with business activity growth easing to its weakest 

for ten months. The ongoing political uncertainty is partly to 

blame for this set-back. Political uncertainty is the enemy of 

construction firms that rely on the spending power of 

homeowners to commission home improvement projects.“ 

A slow start to the year? 

The RICS UK Residential Market Survey for January highlights that 2019 is off to a slow start, showing a subdued backdrop as enquiries, sales 

and new instructions all fall further. 

In the near term, contributors sense little prospect of a turnaround, as concerns over the potential impact of Brexit, alongside affordability 

constraints continue to cause buyers and sellers to hesitate. However, expectations at the 12-month horizon are modestly positive. During 

January, new buyer enquiries fell again at the headline level marking the sixth successive monthly decline. What’s more, demand declined to 

some degree across virtually all parts of the UK. Scotland was a slight exception, but even there the trend was only flat. 

Alongside weakening demand, the number of new properties being listed on the sales market also deteriorated, with the net balance reading 

of -25% the weakest since July 2016. Rounding off a subdued month for market activity, agreed sales also fell further, with the pace of decline 

seemingly gathering momentum compared to December. 

Resolution of the Brexit negotiations is widely seen as critical to encouraging potential buyers back into the market, although whether 

that will be sufficient in London and parts of the South East where affordability remains stretched and the tax changes are most penal 

remains to be seen. 

04 Refurb retrofit 

magazine 

Feb 2019 R11

English councils to receive over £50 million for Brexit preparations 

Local authorities across England will receive a share of £56.5 million to help support their preparations for Brexit. The Treasury announced 

in December that MHCLG would receive £35 million to prepare for Brexit. MHCLG has now added an extra £21.5 million funding using 

finance from its 2018 to 2019 budget. 

Councils will receive £20 million this financial year (2018 to 2019) and £20 million in 2019 to 2020 to spend on planning and strengthening 

their resources. A further £10 million will be available in the next financial year (2019 to 2020). This funding is intended to help local 

authorities with specific costs which may arise following Brexit. 

£1.5 million will be allocated in 2018 to 2019 only to local authorities facing immediate impacts from local ports, with the decision on the 

allocation and distribution of that funding to be announced shortly. 

A further £5 million will be split by teams in the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, local authorities, and Local 

Resilience Forums for specific purposes such as strengthening preparations and supporting communities. 

The funding will help councils to adapt to the changes caused by Brexit, ensuring their local authority is prepared ahead of 29 March, whilst 

also protecting vital local services. 

Major new partnership to improve the 

image of construction 

The CITB (Construction Industry Training Board) has joined 

forces with the Considerate Constructors Scheme (CCS) in a 

milestone partnership. 

The partnership agreement creates a shared action plan to work 

with construction businesses across England, Scotland and 

Wales to improve the image of the sector. 

The aim is to help the industry attract, develop and maintain the 

highly skilled workforce it needs. This includes support for 

potential entrants into the industry as well as construction 

employers. 

CITB and the CCS will also challenge industry stereotypes and 

recruit the next generation of talent. 

Sarah Fenton, Strategic Partnership Manager for the Midlands 

and North at CITB, said “We want young people to see that you 

can have a great career working in construction. Together with 

the Considerate Constructors Scheme, we will support industry 

to attract, train and maintain the new wave of highly-skilled 

talent this sector needs.” 

£250 million of housing deals struck to 

deliver tens of thousands of homes 

Nearly £250 million of housing deals will deliver almost 25,000 

more homes, the Communities Secretary Rt Hon James 

Brokenshire MP has announced. 

As part of this, the government will be investing £157 million in 

infrastructure such as building roads and putting natural green 

space alongside developments. A new partnership has also 

been struck by the government’s housing accelerator Homes 

England to build over 10,000 properties on Ministry of Defence 

land on 7 military bases across the country. 

In London, more than 1,500 new homes will be built at 

London’s Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park thanks to a £78 million 

loan helping to fund the development. 

This is all part of the department’s drive to make the housing 

market work for everyone and deliver much-needed homes 

across the country. 

The Communities Secretary, Rt Hon James Brokenshire MP, said 

“These deals will help us build almost 25,000 more homes – 

which is another symbolic step towards our homebuilding 

targets.” 

Construction firms lose £1.8bn in invoice fraud 

According to the research published by Tungsten, construction firms lose £1.8bn in invoice fraud Cyber-crime costing average 

construction business £1,948 per year. This amounts to £1,948 per construction business. Concern about the scale of the fraud is greater 

in the construction industry than any other sector, with a staggering 71% of business owners troubled by its increase, compared to a 

national average of 54%. They view it as the single biggest threat facing their business – more so than losing a major contract, a member 

of staff or competitor activities. 

Of the construction companies surveyed, 60% have received a fraudulent or suspicious invoice – this is significantly more than any 

other sector and the national average of 47%. Tactics have included: viruses embedded in attachments; unknown invoices attached to an 

email or sent by post; false changes to bank details and sending duplicate invoices. 

Housing survey reveals 12% of tenants struggle with damp and mould 

Research carried out across more than 300 local authorities in England and Wales has revealed a 12% tenant complaint rate relating to 

mould, damp and condensation. 

Of the local authorities that responded, 57,739 complaints had been received from tenants in the timescale set. The responding 

authorities were responsible for a total housing stock of 474,923 – a 12.2% complaint rate. 

Particularly concerning for CIT, which is a specialist in assessing cavity wall insulation (CWI) and external wall insulation (EWI) issues, was 

one local authority that had installed CWI into 70% of its housing stock and EWI into the remainder and had received complaints 

equivalent to more than 80% of its properties. 

“Although the information we gathered does not directly link issues with moisture ingress to CWI or EWI, it should be something that 

social housing providers consider,” said Rob McCormack, CIT Director. 


magazine

Product News 

Never run out of hot water 

with Rinnai’s 11i multipoint 

continuous flow water heaters 

Rinnai’s multipoint continuous flow ErP 

A-rated gas fired 11i water heater units 

are the perfect antidote - to more 

traditional storage systems. Proven to 

deliver high volumes of hot water at any 

time of the day, the high performance 11i 

ensures user comfort and safety with 

100% accurate water temperature 

control. 

These energy efficient, low NOx units, 

ideal for domestic and light commercial 

sites, are neat and compact, with not a 

tank in sight. Internally wall mounted, 

the multipoint Rinnai 11i model measures 

675 x 370 x 134mm and weighs just 16kg 

with a gas consumption range between 6.10kW – 21.60kW, and 

an 11-metre maximum flow. 

Users of the multipoint 11i water heaters can rest assured that 

there is no fluctuation in water temperatures, even if, for 

example, the tap is turned on in the kitchen at the same time 

as the shower is running in the bathroom, the temperature 

remains constant. 

www.rinnaiuk.com 

Glasdon is ‘in its Element’ with latest 

GRP Housing 

The high quality, cost-effective Element housing range incorporates 

corrosion, vandal and weather resistant modular GRP panels for 

ultimate flexibility. 

Customisation is available with a choice of optional fittings: door 

stays, vent and gland plates, and a range of locking systems. 

Delivered fully assembled, Element can quickly be put to use. Typical 

applications include: electrical and switchgear enclosure, transformer 

housing, control room or generator housing. 

With 50 years of Buildings and Housing experience, Glasdon is 

renowned for quality, design and cost-effectiveness. View Element at 

uk.glasdon.com/Element or talk to the Glasdon team (01253)600410. 

uk.glasdon.com 

Casino breathes new life into Bath 

A new multi-million pound 

casino has opened its doors in 

Bath, further transforming the 

Saw Close and Kingsmead areas 

of the City, which are already a 

hub for bars, nightclubs and 

restaurants. 

Younique ® by Formica Group was 

chosen for Century Casino’s new 

washroom cubicles, vanities and 

duct panels and were supplied by 

laminate fabricators Laminform. 

The Younique service allows 

architects and designers to create 

a unique pattern or design, 

capture a photograph or 

corporate logo in Formica ® laminate. The service offers both screen 

and digital print solutions to ensure the optimum replication of any 

design. 

In this instance, the use of Younique digitally rendered panels enabled 

the design team to deliver cubicle doors that matched the floral carpet 

design inside the casino, providing the venue with a visual 

consistency from casino floor to washroom. 

The Colorado Springs-based company Century Casino currently owns 

and runs casinos all over the world including America and Argentina, 

Poland, the UK and on-board cruise ships. 

www.formica.com 

Another level of bathing with Viega 

Viega has launched 

two new products 

to its awardwinning 

drainage 

and overflow range 

– the Multiplex 

Visign M9 and the 

Multiplex Trio 

Visign MT9. Suitable 

for all bathtubs with 

a standardised 

overflow hole, the range is also simple to retrofit. 

Easy to install, the new additions have the same functional unit 

for all equipment sets to allow for simple design selection. In 

retrofit situations, the fittings come with a conversion kit which 

consists of a fastening glance and rotatable collar to easily replace 

the old equipment. 

Adding further bathing comfort, a gentle touch at the rotatable 

collar allows for the water level to be raised an additional five 

centimetres ‘above normal level’. 

Additionally, the Multiplex Visign M9 and Multiplex Trio Visign MT9 

have a small installation depth of 33 mm which ensures that the 

products can be fitted to any bathtub with a standardised 

overflow hole, particularly models with a modern narrow 

rim design. 

www.viega.co.uk 


magazine 


Product News 

Dunham-Bush sign exclusive 

agreement with Eco-Airvent 

Dunham-Bush, one of Europe’s 

leading manufacturers of heat 

emitters and chillers, has signed 

an exclusive agreement with Eco- 

Airvent Ltd to manufacture and 

distribute the company’s range of 

innovative, energy efficient 

ventilation products, including its 

patented Classmaster ® and VHR heat recovery units. 

Developed over several years, the new products will offer a 

proven solution to the requirements of BB 101: (Ventilation, 

thermal comfort and indoor air quality 2018) and will be 

available throughout the UK and Southern Ireland through 

Dunham-Bush’s existing sales network. 

‘These cutting edge products complement our existing range 

and will help to improve indoor air quality in school classrooms 

and colleges in an energy efficient manner by making use of 

variable heat recovery,’ said Dunham-Bush MD, Mike Holding. 

The agreement was signed on behalf of Eco-Airvent by 

Managing Director, Gary Morgan. 

Dunham-Bush’s current range includes chillers, LST radiators, 

radiant panels, fan convectors, door curtains, trench and 

perimeter heating and fan coil units. 

www.dunham-bush.co.uk 

Rinnai with LPG is low nox, sustainable 

& perfect for off-grid 

Rinnai condensing 

hot water heater 

units using LPG 

deliver lower carbon 

emission figures, 

greater energy 

efficiencies and are 

more economic to 

run than other 

sources such as oil or 

electric - making them the first choice for off-grid installations and 

sites. 

For specifiers and installers, helping an off-grid user select a low NOx 

energy efficient water heater is critical — and a condensing 

continuous flow water heater using LPG is one of the most efficient 

and environmentally friendly options available. By choosing a 

continuous flow water heater instead of a standard electric water 

heater, an end user can reduce energy costs by up to 50% and reduce 

greenhouse gas emissions by up to 61%. When compared with oilfired 

systems this saving is even greater. 

An LPG continuous flow water heater is an ‘on-demand’ system. When 

a hot-water tap is opened, the unit reads the demand and starts the 

heating process. The water flows through a heat exchanger, where it 

heats to the desired temperature using only as much gas as is needed. 

When the tap is turned off, the heater automatically shuts off. 


GEZE UK finds showcase a FIT 

GEZE UK will be providing a ‘window’ on a range of new products and solutions at the UK’s 

only event for the glass and glazing industry - the FIT Show. 

Geared to meet the needs of specifiers, fabricators and installers, the exhibition takes place at the 

NEC, Birmingham, 21-23 May and includes the latest innovations and cutting-edge products. 

GEZE UK will be demonstrating its solutions for meeting the enhanced security PAS 24 accreditation for automatic sliding doors, innovative 

smoke and heat ventilation and integrated natural ventilation products within its comprehensive solutions. 

Also, on show will be GEZE’s new products including a new underfloor automatic operator for swing doors, the IST lock that allows 

controlled movement through a manually locked door via electronic control, FTV 320 escape door lock and TS 2000, TS 4000 and TS 5000 

door closers, and floor springs as well as GEZE’s building automation system Cockpit. 

GEZE UK can be found on stand E28, and is part of the Council for Aluminium in Building (CAB) Pavilion. Open on three sides, GEZE UK’s 

exhibition stand has been designed to be interactive allowing visitors to try out products for themselves. 

The FIT show features 250 brands showcasing more than 4,500 products and is now in its seventh year having relocated from Telford to a 

bigger ‘home’ in 2017. Its purpose is to forge “a bridge between the manufacturers and distributors of products, components and services 

with the companies and individuals that fabricate, install and specify them”. 

More details can be found on its website www.fitshow.co.uk 

Said sales and marketing director Andy Howland: “We are delighted to be exhibiting at the FIT Show. It is an excellent opportunity to 

demonstrate our solutions and new products in an environment where we can give visitors insight into how they can be used in a variety 

of situations and to meet specific needs. 

“In turn it allows us to meet people who are at the cutting edge of purchase and installation and hear from them what issues they are 

facing in order to help inform the future development of our products.” 

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

the website. 

www.geze.co.uk 


magazine

Product News 

Makita introduces Brushless LXT 

Rebar Tying Tool 

Makita’s first ever 

introduction of a 

cordless rebar tying tool 

is now available allowing 

fast and efficient 

application of rebar tie 

wire and eliminates 

manual action. The new 

DTR180ZK Rebar Tying 

tool is powered by a 

Brushless motor, for 

extended runtime and 

increased power, and is 

compatible with both 

14.4V and 18V Makita Lithium-Ion batteries. 

Weighing a comfortable 2.6kg, with the battery, the DTR180ZK is 

designed to achieve the fastest method of applying rebar ties 

quickly and consistently and automatically delivers double loop 

ties for a range of construction applications such as building 

concrete foundations. It can be operated by a single hand 

operation, in single or continuous action, allowing the other 

hand to remain free to adjust the position of the rebars. 

This tool can be used with D10, D13 and D16 rebar in 

varying combinations of 2, 3 and 4 pieces of rebars. 

www.makitauk.com 

Roofshield chosen to protect Belfast 

college roof 

The historic buildings of St 

Malachy’s College in Belfast have 

been fitted with an added layer of 

protection in the form of 

Roofshield, which has long been 

recognised as one of the highest 

performing roofing membrane 

solutions, providing a pitched roof 

underlay, which is both air and 

vapour permeable. 

Roofshield’s patented air 

permeable structure allows high 

levels of airflow, in addition to the transport of moisture vapour, 

making the formation of condensation in the roof space virtually 

impossible and will still perform in conditions in which airtight 

alternatives will not. There is also no requirement for a separate 

vapour control layer. 

The high performance of Roofshield, backed by two BBA Certificates & 

LABC / LABSS, has been successfully used in preserving and protecting 

the fabric of a wide range of historic and listed buildings for more than 

21 years. 

Roofshield has been used in the restoration of a number of 

significantly important heritage buildings including; Belfast 

City Hall, Derry Guildhall, Hamilton Hall – St. Andrews, 

Lynn Library Queens University Belfast. 

www.proctorgroup.com 

A world of possibilities with Vicaima doors 

The eagerly anticipated 2019 edition of the Vicaima Interior Door 

Selector (IDS) has now arrived, with an array of products 

designed to inspire creative interiors for modern living. 

Whether for homes, commercial environments, health or 

educational establishments, Vicaima offers original style 

coupled with outstanding performance. 

The 2019 IDS provides specifiers and distributors with an easy to navigate, 

priced guide through a myriad of styles and finishes that demonstrate the 

sheer breadth of possibilities available with Vicaima interior doors and 

doorsets. 

All doors are available in a variety of constructional cores, extensive choice 

of dimensions and of course a colour palette that allows real creative flair 

for new build and refurbishment projects. Whether the vision calls for 

wood veneers displaying their natural specie or stained in a contemporary 

tone, originally designed laminates and innovative foils or even a spectrum of paint lacquers; Vicaima has one of the most 

comprehensive selections available. 

As if 80 pages of door models were not enough, the Vicaima 2019 Interior Door Selector goes one step further, offering a 

wide assortment of additional modifications. Vicaima customisation provides the opportunity to 

select a door of choice from any of their Essential ex-stock solid core designs and to transform 

them with grooves, inlays and glazing plus many other factory servicing options. Effectively 

this creates thousands of additional doors patterns, all available with shorter lead times 

than conventional bespoke doors. 

Download a copy of the 2019 Interior Door Selector today by visiting the 

Vicaima website. Alternatively call 01793 532333 for further possibilities. 

www.vicaima.com 


magazine 


Product News 

Nuaire ventilation for Wales’ largest retail space 

Nuaire has supplied a significant range of ventilation systems, including Air Handling Units (AHU), Heat Recovery Units 

and Extract Fans for use in Wales’ largest retail space, Trago Mills in Merthyr 

Tydfil. 

Trago Mills superstore has over 350 staff members and 215,000m of retail space, 

with the building stretching half a mile long end-to-end. Navigating such a large 

facility can take a few hours, making comfort a key driver in the design of the 

store. Peter Powell of McCann & Partners, responsible for the detailed design of the M&E 

services, advised: “We needed to design a ventilation strategy to provide adequate fresh 

air for the occupants, along with good levels of heat recovery.” 

Nuaire supplied seven Bespoke AHUs, which were spread across three buildings. Due to its 

size, five of these AHUs were used in the main retail area, with thermal wheels quoted. The 

inclusion of thermal wheels meant the site could benefit from considerable heat recovery 

levels, whilst also minimizing the amount of space the units occupy due to the vertical 

stacking. 

As well as its large retail spaces, the site also contains a number of office areas for staff and 

management. Heat recovery units were selected to ensure the same levels of comfort and efficiency as the rest of the store. Nuaire XBC 

units were specified, and designed to fit into the void spaces above the office areas. 

Nuaire Technical Sales Manager, Rhys Tatchell, commented: “Comfort was the primary focus, not only for customers, but also for staff. 

Our XBC units mean that the office spaces will achieve high levels of heat recovery, with the minimum use of space. These units only 

require 260mm as a side access to the unit for filter maintenance– which means that, not only can space be saved for the installation, but 

time can be saved during maintenance in future.” 

Peter Powell of McCann & Partners has much experience of specifying the XBC, having quoted it on several previous projects. He 

commented: “We have used XBC units quite extensively over the last few years and found them to be quiet and reliable. I personally 

like the fact that you are able to control the speed of each fan individually, and they can stand alone without BMS control.” 

www.nuaire.co.uk 

Capital entrance to Crossrail Link 

GEZE UK has provided a capital entrance to a new station that is part of London’s new Crossrail network. 

Abbey Wood is a pivotal station on the south eastern stretch of the new Elizabeth line and provides overground and underground rail 

connections to central London and beyond. 

The new station has been developed by architects Fereday Pollard in organic curved lines, using natural materials. Its light and airy feel is 

enhanced by two GEZE bi-parting ECdrive automatic sliding doors doors which are incorporated in a glazed fascia, over which hangs the eaves 

of the great arched timber roof. 

ECdrives have been specifically designed for use in busy areas, making them ideal for a continuous flow of footfall with large numbers of people 

who need to enter or exit simultaneously. The drive uses GEZE’s activation technology to open the doors automatically, allowing travellers to 

access the station’s concourse through left-and-right-hand entrances, quickly and safely. 

A practical and effective entrance was deemed essential for the smooth running of the station, encouraging people to cross the threshold and 

identify their platform with ease, thereby preventing bottlenecks and assisting the delivery of seamless rail services throughout the day. 

The doors, which were supplied through Vitrine Systems of Surrey, were 

installed with pivot protection screens which allow them to slide into 

‘pockets’ - an extra safety feature which reduces the risk of fingers 

getting caught during operation. 

Said sales and marketing director Andy Howland: “It is a real honour to 

be involved in this project which in itself if part of an awe-inspiring feat 

of engineering. We are delighted that GEZE products will be opening 

doors to this station which will play a pivotal role in the success of the 

new Elizabeth line when it opens.” 

For more information about GEZE UK’s comprehensive range of 

automatic and manual door closers call 01543 443000 or visit the 

website. 

www.geze.co.uk 


magazine

Editor’s Article 

Beware 

of increasing 

risk of fire 

Fire deaths in England have increased sharply over the last two years. There 

were 334 fire deaths in England (including 71 at Grenfell). 2017 in particular 

was the worst year for fire deaths since 2010-11 due in part to the Grenfell 

disaster. However, post-Grenfell, fire-related fatalities in England rose by a 

quarter between 2016/17 and 2017/18, from 263 to 334. This increase, of 71 

deaths, was actually the same as the official Grenfell Tower death toll. R&R 

Editor Joe Bradbury explores the subject of fire and why fire safety must be 

adhered to throughout any planning or refurbishment process. 

There were 558,963 incidents 

attended by the UK Fire and Rescue 

Service (FRS) last year. Of these 

incidents, around 161,770 were fires. These 

fires resulted in 261 fatalities and 7,081 

non-fatal casualties. To put that into 

context - for every million people in 

England, there were 4.7 fire-related 

fatalities. 

Smokers’ materials (such as cigarettes, 

cigars or pipe tobacco) were the source of 

ignition in 36% of fire-related fatalities in 

accidental dwelling fires. 

Cooking appliances were the source of 

ignition in 49% of accidental dwelling fires 

and 50% of non-fatal casualties in 

accidental dwelling fires in and was by far 

the largest ignition category. 

Fires where a smoke alarm was not present 

accounted for 27% (8,100) of all dwelling 

fires and 36% (77) of all dwelling fire 

fatalities. According to the studies, mains 

powered smoke alarms continue to have a 

lower “failure rate” than battery powered 

alarms. 21% of mains powered smoke 

alarms and 39% of battery powered smoke 

alarms failed to operate in dwelling fires. 

Sounding the alarm 

All building owners need to be aware of the 

fire risks within their properties and are 

required by law to protect their tenants 

from them. As any fire department will 

advise you, in a fire emergency, a few 

seconds could save lives. 

The Fire Safety Advice 

Centre sets out the British 

Standards Specification for 

installing fire safety systems 

within a property. These 

standards include the BS 

5839-1:2013+A2:2008 and 

the BAFE Fire Detection and 

Alarm Systems Scheme 

No. SP203. 

A fire detection system is designed to sense 

smoke, excessive heat or fire and provide an 

alert for tenants. The Fire Safety Advice 

Centre sets out the British Standards 

Specification for installing fire safety 

systems within a property. These standards 

include the BS 5839-1:2013+A2:2008 and 

the BAFE Fire Detection and Alarm Systems 

Scheme No. SP203. 

Building owners must ensure that all 

systems that they install, meet these 

specifications and that each system is 

installed correctly. 

An overview 

• Kitchen - 50% of accidental fires are 

caused by cooking appliances. (Room risks 

likely to be present: Gas cooker, boiler, 

Flue, Electrical equipment) 

• Living room - 7% of fires are caused by 

smokers’ materials. 36% of fires are caused 

by misused or faulty equipment. (Room 

risks likely to be present: Electrical 

equipment, space heaters, soft furnishings, 

open or gas fire) 

• Bedroom - 25% of all dwelling fires are 

caused by textiles, upholstery and 

furnishings. (Room risks likely to be 

present: Soft furnishings, electrical 

equipment, candles, indirect carbon 

monoxide risk) 

• Loft - There are 11 chimney fires daily in 

the UK; that’s 4015 a year. (Room risks 


magazine 


Smokers’ materials (such 

as cigarettes, cigars or 

pipe tobacco) were the 

source of ignition in 36% 

of fire-related fatalities in 

accidental dwelling fires 

likely to be present: Chimneys, 

downlights, PV – Solar panel inverter, 

insulation, electrical wiring) 

• Hallway – Between 7pm and 8pm is the 

most frequent time for fire incidents 

within a property. (Room risks likely to be 

present: Although less likely to be the 

location of a fire source, this vital escape 

route could be blocked due to smoke 

entry from a fire in a nearby room) 

Placement is everything 

Placement of a fire alarm system will vary 

depending on the type of alarm required 

and the layout of the property. Typical 

smoke alarms need to be installed in a 

centralised area of a passageway and should 

also be installed in the head of stairways on 

the top storey. Multi-storey structures 

should have a smoke alarm installed on 

each level. The alarm should be placed at a 

safe distance from lights, ceiling fans or air 

conditioning vents because the cooler air 

and flow could prevent proper detection of 

fire, heat or smoke. 

Proper installation of fire alarm systems is 

important so that the detectors will operate 

effectively and the audible and lighted alerts 

can easily warn occupants in case of a fire. 

Not only should the fire alarm systems be 

installed and working properly, but building 

owners should also provide training for 

tenants to make sure they understand how 

critical the alarms are in an emergency. 

Fire Alarm Systems Monitoring and 

Testing 

Fire Alarm systems should be checked on a 

regular basis, either by setting off a call 

point or setting off the sounders, and 

making sure that the system is tested by a 

competent person. Then, depending on the 

size of the system, a full service should be 

carried out from between once a year up to 

four times a year. The frequency should 

depend on the size and the complexity of 

your fire alarm system. 

In summary 

Often the most deadly fires are small fires 

that quietly smoulder and smoke while 

people are asleep or in a different room. 

Without the early warning of a smoke alarm, 

people can be overcome with smoke before 

the fire is discovered. Please fit at least one 

smoke alarm on every floor of your property 

and regularly check them. The quicker 

firefighters are alerted, the quicker we can 

help save lives and prevent fires from 

spreading. Get out, stay out and dial 999. 

Feb 2019 R11 Refurb retrofit 

magazine 

11


Millions in UK at higher risk of illness due 

to damp in homes 

84 million Europeans live in homes that are too damp, causing respiratory illnesses such as asthma and COPD (chronic 

obstructive pulmonary disease), according to new research from the German institute Fraunhofer IBP. Joe Bradbury of R&R 

investigates: 

The average person in Britain spends 

just 8% of their time outside on a 

week day and most of this time is 

spent walking to the shops or to a car. This 

means that they spend less than two hours a 

day outdoors. Needless to say, indoor air 

quality in a home is paramount for the 

health and wellbeing of its occupants. 

When we are in a house, an office (or any 

other type of building, for that matter), we are 

at the mercy of gas, chemicals, toxins and 

many other pollutants that can cause 

headaches, eye irritation, allergies and 

fatigue. Prolonged exposure to more 

serious pollutants can even 

cause certain types of cancers 

and other long-term health 

complications. 

5.4 million people in the UK are 

currently receiving treatment for 

asthma; that’s 1.1 million 

children (1 in 11) and 4.3 million 

adults (1 in 12). The UK has some 

of the highest rates in Europe and 

on average 3 people a day die from 

asthma. Every day, the lives of three 

families are devastated by the death 

of a loved one to an asthma attack, 

and tragically two thirds of these 

deaths are preventable. 

Not only can poor indoor air quality 

make the symptoms of someone who 

already has asthma worse, but it may 

also play a role in the development of 

asthma in more susceptible people, like 

small children. 

European governments’ expenditures on 

asthma and COPD in terms of hospitalisation, 

loss of productivity and medical treatment 

amounts to 82 billion Euros each year, 

according to Fraunhofer IBP’s research. 

In response to this, the VELUX Group is 

calling for healthier homes to be a central 

consideration for the new European 

framework for national building legislations, 

which will affect UK house builders once 

implemented. 

The research from FraunhoferIBP, reveals the 

socio-economic costs of asthma and COPD, 

which are proven effects also of living in 

damp and unhealthy buildings. The costs are 

82 billion Euros annually, covering European 

governments’ direct expenses on 

medical treatment and 

additional care for patients inand 

outside of hospitals, as 

well as indirect costs due to 

loss of productivity. 

The study also reveals that 

close to 84 

million 

Europeans live 

in damp or 

mouldy 

dwellings, 

which increases 

their risk of having 

respiratory diseases and life-long allergies by 

40%. This proves the number of people living 

in unhealthy buildings remains an issue, 

despite recent awareness of the correlation 

between indoor environment and human 

health. 

“We are convinced that the development of 

respiratory illnesses as a result of damp 

buildings can be reduced, and it is now 

clearer than ever that the legal framework for 

buildings needs to support healthy indoor 

climates in new and existing buildings. This 

way, human lives could be improved, and it is 

also good for the economy too,” says Grant 

Sneddon, Product Manager, VELUX® GBI. 

Sneddon points to the upcoming revision of 

Energy Performance of Buildings Directives, 

EPBD, under the Energy Union, where the 

framework for national building legislations 

will be set. 

Prof. Dr. Gunnar Grün, head of department 

for energy efficiency and indoor climate at 

Fraunhofer IBP commented “It is a big 

concern to see that very many people spend 

their everyday lives in damp and unhealthy 

homes. What is more, the new research 

reveals for the first time that 2.2 million 

citizens have asthma directly because they 

live in unhealthy buildings.” 

Fraunhofer’s research, based on a crosssectional 

study, questionnaires and in-depth 

case studies across 32 European countries, 

estimates that the number of Europeans 

living in damp and unhealthy dwellings could 

be reduced by 50% by 2050, which could 

reduce the number of people with associated 

respiratory diseases by 25%. In the case of 

asthma, this could lead to a reduction of 

550,000 people. 

How to prevent dampness in homes 

According to the Fraunhofer institute 

dampness is one of the main defects in 

buildings across Europe, primarily caused by 

inadequate building structures and home 

owners’ lack of attention to ventilate 

sufficiently. As a consequence, mould is likely 

to grow, however the risk of this can be 

reduced significantly by choosing the right 

building fabrics during renovations. 


magazine 


Article 

Saving heat & space with Kingspan 

Within the Clean Growth Strategy announced last Autumn, the government set itself the target of raising as many homes as 

possible to an Energy Performance Certificate rating of C by 2035. 

With over two thirds of the domestic 

properties logged in the EPC 

register this year falling short of 

this rating 1 , there is clearly considerable work 

to be done. 

Insulation retrofits to the building envelope 

can provide one means to significantly reduce 

the energy usage of properties over time by 

minimising heating demand. However, with 

the dimensions of internal spaces already set, 

it can prove challenging to install a sufficient 

thickness of insulation in areas such as solid 

floors without significantly impacting living 

space or adding time and cost to 

refurbishment works. Vacuum insulation 

panels (VIPs) offer a solution for these areas, 

delivering exceptional thermal performance 

from a minimal thickness of insulation. The 

latest VIP systems now encapsulate the panels 

in a rigid insulation board, making installations 

faster and simpler. 

VIPs 

VIPs can match the thermal performance of 

commonly used insulation materials at a 

significantly reduced thickness. This makes 

them ideal for applications where you need to 

save space. 

VIPs are made by evacuating the air out of a 

micro-porous core and sealing it in a thin, gastight 

membrane, which maintains the vacuum 

over time. The panels are usually supplied with 

rigid thermoset insulation boards of the same 

thickness. These boards can be cut as infill 

strips to fit around the perimeter of the floor or 

roof, fill awkward spaces between the VIPs and 

to allow penetrations through the insulation 

layer. VIP systems are typically finished with a 

rigid insulation overlay. 

Kingspan’s specialist OPTIM-R design team provide 

detailed layouts to streamline the installation and 

ensure the desired U-value is met. 

The Kingspan OPTIM-R E Roofing and Flooring 

Systems feature vacuum insulation panels 

encapsulated within rigid insulation boards. 

Fully encapsulated VIP systems simplify the fitout 

process, providing a robust insulation 

board that eliminates the need for a protection 

layer. The system mitigates the requirement 

for a separate insulation overlay to be installed 

above the VIP layer, thus saving time. 

Encapsulated VIPs can achieve an insulating 

performance that is up to three times better 

than commonly used insulation materials and 

are suitable for a variety of solid floor and flat 

roof applications. 

Some suppliers offer a tailored design service 

creating a clear layout for each application. 

This ensures the best possible ratio of 

encapsulated VIPs to infill panels, provides the 

most efficient installation plan and meets the 

required thermal performance with the 

slimmest possible construction. 

Practical Benefits 

The space saving advantages of encapsulated 

VIPs are clearly apparent in both solid floor 

and flat roof applications. 

For example, take a standard solid floor 

comprising hardcore and a concrete slab in a 

space with a perimeter/area ratio of 0.4. By 

fitting an 80 mm thick encapsulated VIP 

system beneath a vapour control layer and 

floor screed it is possible to achieve a U-value 

of just 0.11 W/m2.K. To reach a similar level of 

performance with even a premium 

performance rigid thermoset insulation 

solution would require the thickness of the 

insulation layer to be increased by 60 mm, to 

total 140 mm of insulation. This may mean 

significant additional groundworks are needed 

adding time and cost to the project. 

Encapsulated VIPS can also be particularly 

beneficial when converting an existing flat 

roof into a balcony or roof terrace. In this 

application the options are to insulate either 

above or below the deck. Even with high 

performance insulation products, installing an 

effective thickness of insulation above the 

deck can require a significant level change 

from the internal space, limiting accessibility. 

Insulating below the deck is also problematic 

as it may require ceilings to be lowered in the 

room below, making rooms feel cramped and 

creating unsightly discrepancies in room 

height. 

With encapsulated VIPs, the target U-value 

can be met with a considerably reduced 

construction thickness. This may allow a level 

transition to be maintained between the 

internal and external spaces with a fast, 

reliable installation process. 

Saving Space 

The Clean Growth Strategy sets ambitious 

targets which will provide both new 

opportunities and challenges for the industry 

— particularly in older properties. 

Encapsulated VIPs provide a durable, easy to 

install insulation solution for some of the 

most problematic areas of the building 

envelope, allowing demanding U-values to 

be achieved with a minimal overall 

construction thickness. 

1 Live tables on Energy Performance of Buildings Certificates 

www.kingspaninsulation.co.uk/optim-r 


magazine 

13


Brexit 

- it’s not 

the end of 

the world! 

The date has been set, Britain is to leave the EU on the 29th March. Since the initial shock following the referendum it has been 

one of the only things the construction industry can think about. 

We have been plunged into the 

unknown and understandably 

concern and fear has arisen. 

However, it isn’t all doom and gloom for 

the construction industry going forward, 

and regardless of your opinion on Brexit it 

is everybody’s responsibility to roll up their 

sleeves and help make this work. 

Strength in unity 

Following 52% of UK voters deciding to 

leave the European Union, organisers of the 

UK’s largest construction event have called 

for a united front in the industry to face the 

challenges and opportunities ahead. 

Nathan Garnett, Event Director for UK 

Construction Week, commented: "A new 

dawn for UK construction begins here. It is 

inevitable that our industry will experience a 

period of uncertainty and adjustment, but 

the construction sector has proved time and 

time again to be incredibly resilient. Now 

the result of the referendum is clear, we, as 

an industry, must move forward together 

with confidence. Leaving the EU will likely 

mean UK construction firms will be looking 

to invest in British products and services like 

never before. 

"The UK boasts many long-term 

infrastructure projects and the Bank of 

England have made sound contingency 

plans for leaving the EU. The UK also has the 

foundations for a boom in house building, 

and the industry must and will be 

committed to meeting the national need for 

housing. Leaving the EU will inevitably 

attract new investors to our shores offering 

new opportunities, and that will happen 

sooner rather than later. The last few weeks 

and months have been uncertain for the UK 

construction industry, but now is the time 

to embrace the change and these new 

opportunities." 

"The reports of my death are greatly 

exaggerated." 

As social media reverberates rumours that 

the bottom has fallen out of the industry 

and the wider economy overall, many are 

actually quietly reporting that both the 

overall uncertainty and the subsequent 

result of the referendum have actually had 

little to no impact on their business activity. 

In a year-end trading statement released by 

Redrow housebuilders, Chairman Steve 

Morgan has indicated that annual profits 

were expected to be at the upper level of 

city expectations of £240m. “Although it is 

too early to tell whether Brexit will have any 

effect on future sales, initial feedback is that 

sites remain busy, reservations continue to 

be taken. 

"Indeed, we witnessed long queues and 

strong reservations at new sites launched 

last weekend." 

David Orr, Chief Executive at the National 

Housing Federation has highlighted the 

importance of a strong stance as an 

industry. Speaking on behalf of the 

Federation, he said "We recognise the 

uncertainty that Brexit has brought to the 

sector and we are working with our housing 

association members to support them to 

continue delivering the homes and services 

this country needs. Whatever happens there 

is still a housing crisis and we remain 

committed to ending it." 

David Brown, the head of agency Marsh & 

Parsons, addressed the widespread moral 

panic gripping the housing sector in the 

Guardian. He pointed out that regardless of 

the result of the referendum there was still 

plenty of pent-up demand in the UK 

housing market "leaving the EU doesn’t 

change that overnight." 

He added: "When you think back to before 

the financial crisis and the volume of 


magazine 


transactions we were witnessing on an 

annual basis, there’s clearly scope for further 

improvement. The decision to leave doesn’t 

alter the fact that plenty of people have to 

and still want to move." 

One reason perhaps that indicates that 

Brexit will not impact the construction 

industry quite as heavily as other sectors is 

that many construction companies work 

exclusively within the UK. A recent CBI 

study into the implications of British 

withdrawal from the EU, showed that 

construction is the second most 

domestically focused major UK sector, 

surpassed by a hairs breadth by 

Government. "It’s a domestic market, so 

while there are some that operate 

internationally, what really affects them is 

what they do in the UK," says Suzannah 

Nichol, chief executive of Build UK. 

Home-grown talent 

Whilst the skills gap is likely to worsen in the 

short term, Brexit is perhaps the catalyst for 

change long term regarding the training and 

retention of a better homegrown workforce. 

According to the Federation of Master 

Builders (FMB) The UK construction industry 

has been heavily reliant on migrant workers 

from Europe for decades now – at present, 

12% of the British construction workers are 

of non-UK origin. 

Leaving the EU will 

inevitably attract new 

investors to our shores 

offering new 

opportunities, and that 

will happen sooner rather 

than later. The last few 

weeks and months have 

been uncertain for the UK 

construction industry, but 

now is the time to 

embrace the change and 

these new opportunities. 

Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said 

"we need to ensure that we invest in our 

own home-grown talent through 

apprenticeship training. We need to train 

more construction apprentices so we are 

not overly reliant on migrant workers from 

Europe or further afield. That’s why it’s so 

important that the Government gets the 

funding framework right for apprenticeships 

– when you consider that this whole policy 

area is currently in flux, and then you add 

Brexit into the mix, it’s no exaggeration to 

say that a few wrong moves by the 

Government could result in the skills crisis 

becoming a skills catastrophe. The next few 

years will bring unprecedented challenges 

to the construction and house building 

sector, and it’s only through close 

collaboration between the Government and 

industry that we’ll be able to overcome 

them." 

In summary 

In summary, the biggest immediate threat 

to the construction industry following our 

departure from the EU is widespread 

confusion, stalling due to a feeling of 

insecurity and failure to act going forward. 

Demand remains strong as shown by 

reports from some of the major contractors 

and housebuilder’s across the UK. The 

construction sector remains strong but we 

need to keep moving and resist succumbing 

to hype in order to ensure it stays this way. 

It has to be business as usual. Keep calm 

and carry on!


43% of British homes in dire need of 

refurbishment 

A shocking four in ten people (43%) in Britain live in homes which fail to 

meet the ‘Living Home Standard’ – a popular measure of what makes 

for an acceptable home. R&R Editor Joe Bradbury investigates: 

Designed to be the housing equivalent 

of the Living Wage, the Living Home 

Standard has been developed by the 

public, for the public through a series of 

discussion groups, workshops and surveys. 

Its purpose is to reveal a measure of what 

everyone should have from a home in order 

to live, rather than just get by. 

In a recent report, Shelter and Ipsos MORI, 

with support from British Gas, asked the 

nation to define what makes an acceptable 

home. Fifty years since the housing charity 

was first founded, the Living Home Standard 

paints a unique picture of what people need 

from their homes in Britain today. It is 

measured through five criteria based on what 

mattered most to the public: affordability, 

decent conditions, stability, space and 

neighbourhood. 

The research revealed that most homes fall 

below the standard due to the impact of high 

housing costs, with over one in four people 

(27%) in Britain living in homes which fail on 

affordability. 

Almost one in five (18%) live in homes which 

fail to meet the standard because of poor 

conditions, with problems including persistent 

pests, damp or safety hazards. And the homes 

of almost one in ten people (10%) fail due to 

instability, largely driven by renters who feel 

they don’t have enough control over how 

long they can live in their home. 

In a statement, Ipsos MORI said “When Shelter 

first shared 

with us 

their 

ambitions to 

create the 

Living Home 

Standard we 

quickly understood 

that this would be a 

unique and 

challenging project, but 

one that we were excited 

to have the opportunity to 

be involved in. 

“Defining a home that 

provides more than the bare 

minimum, that allows people to flourish, 

meant bringing in expertise from right across 

Ipsos MORI. It involved a sophisticated 

programme of research combining focus 

groups, workshops, digital communities and 

complex quantitative methods. We carefully 

studied the existing standards, literature and 

evidence, and consulted with experts in the 

field. However, first and foremost creating the 

Living Home Standard was about the public. 

Our biggest challenge was engaging with 

hundreds of members of the public on a wide 

range of topics from storage to stability and 

from pets to pests. We then brought this 

diverse set of experiences and opinions 

together to converge on a standard which is 

has been led by public discussion and debate. 

“It has been a fascinating process, one we 

could not have 

achieved without 

the close 

collaboration of 

Shelter, but most 

importantly the 

hundreds of 

members of the 

public who gave up 

their time to talk 

about what home 

meant to them in 

discussion groups 

and online forums, 

and the thousands 

who participated in 

the survey research 

which helped us 

define and measure 

the Standard. 

Without them, this 

would not have been possible, it is truly their 

Living Home Standard.” 

Top 5 reasons homes fail the Living Home 

Standard 

• Worries that the rent/mortgage may rise 

and become difficult to pay (affordability) 

• Can’t meet rent/mortgage without regularly 

cutting back on essentials like 

food/heating (affordability) 

• Home is not free from mould or damp 

problems (conditions) 

• Not enough control over how long can stay 

in the home (stability) 

• Home is not free from pest problems 

(conditions) 

Living Home Standard: %’s of homes failing 

each dimension 

• % of homes failing on SPACE: 11% 

• % of homes failing on DECENCY: 18% 

• % of homes failing on AFFORDABILITY: 27% 

• % of homes failing on STABILITY: 10% 

• % of homes failing on NEIGHBOURHOOD: 5% 

In summary 

Sarwjit Sambhi, Managing Director of UK 

Home at British Gas, concludes “Our 

partnership has changed the lives of 

thousands of families but this report shows 

that there is clearly more to do. Through our 

customers, we understand what makes a 

house a home, and how important a warm 

and safe environment is for everyone. As we 

move towards a future where technology will 

play a greater role in our daily lives, the fact 

that many people do not even have basic 

levels of safety, comfort and security is 

unacceptable.” 


magazine 


Product News 

Cembrit Westerland Slates provide 

contemporary look to bungalow 

When a homeowner in 

Norwich was looking to 

transform his 1920s bungalow 

into a contemporary home that 

featured the most aesthetically 

pleasing building products on 

the market, he turned to 

Cembrit Westerland slates to 

provide a natural roof finish that 

complemented the new look of the property. 

Previously a brick building with red Norfolk pantiles, the property 

looked run down, outdated and was badly insulated. Once the 

outside walls were insulated and rendered and new triple glazed 

aluminium windows were installed, Jon Barrell, the owner of the 

property, turned his attention to the roof. 

“We became aware of Cembrit Westerland slates after 

researching what roofing materials are available” commented 

Jon Barrell. We wanted a light weight option that would look 

natural in its surroundings and would colour match the 

windows. The Cembrit Westerland slates ticked all these boxes. 

Not only that, but thanks to the thinness of the slate, we were 

able to raise the rafter line by 3" to allow for an extra 2" of 

insulation. We achieved this without having to alter the 

existing roofline or the need for planning permission.” 

www.cembrit.co.uk 

SuperFOIL insulation awarded 

industry-leading BBA approval 

SuperFOIL Insulation been awarded its first prestigious approval from 

the British Board of Agrément (BBA) for its range of multifoil products. 

The UK manufacturer and supplier to the construction industry has 

been recognised for the performance of its Multi Foil roof, wall and 

floor insulation products following a rigorous two-year assessment. 

SuperFOIL’s Multi Foil range includes the highest performing insulation 

multi foil products on the market. The insulation is produced from 

40% recycled materials and has 

a life expectancy of more than 

50 years with a GWP rating of 3. 

With R values ranging from 2.27 

for its 40mm thick SF19 product 

to 4.42 for its 100mm SF60 

insulation when used for roof 

insulation. 

Recent notable SuperFOIL 

installations include Tottenham 

Court Road Underground 

Station, Number One Hyde Park 

and the new Royal Papworth Hospital in Cambridge. 

Its products are already approved by Local Authority Business Control 

(LABC) and Local Authority Building Standards Scotland (LABSS) in the 

UK, as well as Deutches Institut für Bautechnik (DIBT) and ZAG in 

Europe. 

www.superfoil.co.uk 

Makita introduces cordless brushless shear wrench 

The mighty DWT310ZK Twin 18V Brushless Shear Wrench LXT is exactly what the heavy steel industry has been waiting for. 

Professional applicators working on steel bridge constructions, tower blocks, 

railways, tunnels and many other steel frame structures will welcome the power, 

ease of application, manoeuvrability and portability of this high performance, 

specialist application tool. 

This machine is powered by two 18V Makita Lithium-ion batteries in series to supply energy 

to the powerful 36V DC motor drive system. One of the many attributes of cordless 

machines is the exclusion of potentially dangerous trailing leads in vulnerable site locations. 

The Brushless motor will provide extended run time and increased power while reducing 

maintenance cycles and downtime. An LED warning lamp provides battery capacity for 

extra convenience. 

With a no load speed of 14 rpm, and maximum fastening torque of 804 Nm, this cordless 

shear wrench has the capacity to install M16, M20 and M22 high strength torque shear bolts 

(HTB), the most commonly used size being M20 and M22 bolts, and M16 and M20 Super 

high strength shear bolts (SHTB). These bolts are specified by a project engineer and can be 

purchased from specialist dealers and hire companies. 

During installation the threads of the bolt engage to form a dynamic, strong and solid fixing that will not come undone with heat, 

vibration, friction or movement of any kind. The DWT310ZK accommodates A325 torque shear bolts, or snap-off bolts, of 5/8”, ¾” and 7/8“ 

as well as A490 torque shear bolts of 5/8” and ¾”, to form a premium one-way permanent security solution. 

This compact machine weighs 6.5kg, plus batteries, and has a working vibration level of just 2.5 m/s², as well as low sound emissions, 

which are both valuable benefits in rapid and repetitive work applications in steel. The DWT310ZK is supplied with shoulder harness for 

total operator comfort and safety. 

This body only machine is supplied with M20 and M22 sleeves, has an electric brake and comes in a robust and rugged Makita 

carry case. 

www.makitauk.com 


magazine 

17

Building Envelope 

Parex at Kew Gardens 

Images courtesy Of RBG Kew 

A bespoke solution from Parex has contributed towards a major project to restore and revitalise “the World’s Greatest 

Glasshouse” at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. The stunning Temperate House is the largest Victorian glasshouse in the world, 

and home to some of the world’s rarest and most threatened plants. 

The Grade 1 listed glass house, 

originally completed in 1863, is now 

open following a colossal restoration 

programme spanning almost five years. 

Although largely focussed on the restoration of 

the main glasshouse structure, the programme 

also featured extensive repairs to the supporting 

masonry including its rendered sections. 

Parex helped to devise a bespoke solution for 

main contractor ISG Ltd, with remedial and 

application work carried out by London-based 

Stoneguard Projects Limited. The project was 

further complicated as the existing ironwork 

that was buried in the render repairs, required 

a cathodic protection system to be installed 

which could not be affected by the render 

system. 

A number of specialist lime materials from the 

Parex Parlumiere range were specified for their 

ability to blend with and complement the 

original rendered surfaces of the walls, pillars 

and feature mouldings of the original building. 

A specific repair solution was devised for the 

columns of the glasshouse where substantial 

erosion to the steel and brick core had 

occurred over the years. The loose existing 

render of the columns was removed and once 

the cathodic protection system was installed, 

the substrate was then treated with a 

priming/suction control coat of Parex 

Fixopierre, a base regulator coat of Parex 

Parlumiere Clair lime render, mixed with the 

Fixopierre, to a slurry consistency, which was 

then brush applied to create a bonding coat to 

the damaged areas. 

Parex Parlumiere Clair render was then built 

up in layers to match the original render 

system of between 15-25mm to form a voidfilling 

base coat which was reinforced in 

vulnerable zones by the addition of Parex TV10 

mesh. Once cured, the repaired areas received 

a top coat of Parex Parlumiere Fin fine 

hydraulic lime render, again with Parex TV10 

mesh embedded to provide additional 

strength, with additional layers added at 

various stress points. 

To the larger brick areas that had been 

affected by moisture, a thinner repair proposal 

was required, and this was achieved using the 

Fixopierre priming/suction control coat, 

followed by a base regulator coat of Parex 

Parlumiere STH due to its damp resistant 

properties, again mixed with Parex Fixopierre 

to create a slurry bonding coat and this was 

then coated with the Parex Maite reinforced 

with Parex 355 AVU mesh. 

Parex Paraguard breathable water-resistant 

coating was applied to protect the repaired 

structure from the weather and to help 

combat staining by environmental and 

airborne contaminants. 

To complement the repairs, Parex specialist 

repair mortars Mortier Pierre TF/DM were used 

to treat damaged areas of stonework and to 

reinstate the decorative features to match the 

original designs. The Parex Mortier Pierre TF 

was used for areas of soft to firm stonework 

and the Parex Mortier Pierre DM was used for 

the firm-to-hard stonework. 

Other areas requiring attention included newly 

created apron vents where Parex Mortier 

Pierre TM was used to create new surrounds, 

while Parex Parthena Moulage casting mortar 

was used to recreate window heads and other 

decorative features deemed to be beyond 

repair by compacting the material into moulds 

to create exact replicas of the originals. 

The Temperate House is home to an 

internationally important collection of 

temperate zone plants, including some of the 

rarest and most threatened species. It was 

designed by Decimus Burton, who also 

designed the Palm House at Kew. Building 

began in 1860 and it opened to the public in 

1863. 

The restoration of the building was lengthy 

and complex and included: 

• 69,000 individual elements removed from 

the building were cleaned, repaired or 

replaced 

• 15,000 panes of glass replaced 

• 180km of scaffolding required, equivalent to 

the length of the M25 

• 5,280 litres of paint used, enough to cover 

four football pitches 

• Tent structure enclosing building was large 

enough to cover three Boeing 747s 

The project was supported by the Heritage 

Lottery Fund, Defra, Eddie and Sue Davies, The 

Garfield Weston Foundation, The Wolfson 

Foundation, The Linbury Trust, The Hartnett 

Conservation Trust, and others. 

www.parex.co.uk 


magazine 



Hadley Group acquires Hadley Steel 

Framing Ltd 

 

Global cold rolled 

manufacturer of steel 

solutions with real world 

applications, Hadley Group is 

pleased to announce the 

acquisition of Hadley Steel 

Framing Ltd (HSF). HSF will 

 

continue to operate as a 

 

stand-alone business but will 

have the resources of the 

wider Hadley Group available 

for support. 

Hadley Group originally 

acquired a 50% stake in 

Hadley Steel Framing Ltd 

 

(HSF) ten years ago, supporting the growth of the company by 

manufacturing and delivering its cold rolled steel framing products. 

This latest development in HSF’s ownership means it will be business 

 

as usual with no changes to the manufacturing or delivery aspects of 

the business. Hadley Group will provide HSF with the stability and 

security that comes with being part of a large international group. 

 

Hadley Group operates across the globe, providing a significant 

breadth of product solutions across a diverse market. The company’s 

 

expertise, market insight and manufacturing capabilities have 

positioned it as a world leader in advanced cold rolled steel 

technology. 

www.hadleygroup.com 

Membrane addresses airtightness 

and thermal bridging combined 

The A. Proctor Group has 

launched a new wall 

membrane composite, 

which will improve 

airtightness levels whilst at 

the same time addresses the 

need to reduce thermal 

bridging, particularly in 

refurbishment projects. 

Wraptherm is a highperformance 

self-adhesive 

membrane composite 

specifically developed to be applied during the refurbishment of 

existing buildings, and specifically where there is a requirement to 

enhance the thermal and airtightness performance of the 

building. 

Designed to be applied to the internal face of the existing façade, 

Wraptherm provides a vapour permeable yet airtight layer, fully 

self-adhered to the substrate beneath with the added benefit of a 

10mm thick layer of high-performance Spacetherm insulation 

blanket. Over this airtight/thermal composite framing can then be 

installed. 

The offset nature of the Wraptite component allows for a 

completely robust sealing of all of the joints within the panel 

thereby ensuring the continuity, integrity and robustness 

of the airtight layer. 

www.proctorgroup.com 

Tile gives slate-look on a budget 

Marley introduces new colour to 

popular Edgemere slate range. 

Following significant increase in 

demand for cost-effective 

alternatives to natural slate, 

Marley has further enhanced its 

slate offering by introducing a 

fourth colour to the popular 

Edgemere range. 

The new Anthracite colour has been developed to provide a 

closer aesthetic match to natural slate and offers an affordable 

way to comply with planning requirements. 

Daniel Redfern, product manager at Marley, explains: “There is 

growing demand for thin leading edge concrete interlocking 

slates, so this new finish for Edgemere provides greater choice 

within this popular range. Strict planning stipulations often 

determine product selection and we are confident the 

introduction of this attractive tile colour, which further mimics the 

appearance of natural slate, will result in an increased 

specification of Edgemere in areas where slate has historically 

been used.” 

The new Anthracite colour option joins the existing range of Old 

English Dark Red, Smooth Brown and the most popular colour, 

Smooth Grey, which has seen strong growth due to the 

aesthetic trend towards slate-look roofs for new homes. 

www.marley.co.uk/Roofing/Concrete-Tiles/ 

Edgemere-Interlocking-Slate 


magazine 

19


OPTIM-R makes room for 

refurbishment 

The Kingspan OPTIM-R Flooring System and Kingspan 

Thermaroof TR27 LPC/FM have been installed in floor and roof 

constructions as part of the multi award-winning transformation 

of The Piece Hall in Halifax. 

The Council contracted the construction works to GRAHAM 

Construction, and LDN Architects, with their expertise in 

conserving historic 

buildings, they 

reimagined The 

Piece Hall into the 

21st century 

destination that it is 

today. 

The system 

comprises OPTIM-R 

vacuum insulation 

panels, with an 

exceptionally low thermal conductivity of just 0.007 W/m.K, and 

OPTIM-R flex infill strips of the same thickness, which can be cut 

to fill any gaps within the insulation layer. The low thermal 

conductivity of the OPTIM-R VIPs allowed the desired thermal 

performance to be met with a system thickness of just 

43 mm (inclusive of a 3mm layer of rubber crumb). 

www.kingspaninsulation.co.uk/optim-r 

Hadley group helps Mezzanine 

International group 

The 

construction 

of a massive 

new 

warehousing 

facility in 

Northampton 

has involved 

Hadley Group 

supplying 

unusually large quantities of its UltraMezzTM components to longterm 

customer Mezzanine International, with Hadley Group also 

supporting the successful erection programme throughout. 

The two-tier mezzanine structure will provide Decathlon Distribution 

– a German based sports goods supplier – with some 17,000 square 

metres of space for storage and racking; and is the latest landmark 

project undertaken by the mezzanine flooring supplier and 

manufacturer during an eight-year relationship. 

Hadley Group’s UltraMezzTM selection of components can facilitate 

the rapid and cost-effective erection of mezzanine floors for both 

new-build and retrofit applications. Offering enhanced performance 

based on the manufacturer’s unique UltraSTEELTM process, the 

UltraMezzTM design and project management process cuts waste and 

avoids errors, while further support is available from Hadley Group’s 

technical sales team. 

www.hadleygroup.com 

Peace of mind for cladding specifiers - 

BBA certificate for Cembrit 

Cembrit is pleased to announce 

that it has received approval 

from the British Board of 

Agrément (BBA) for its cladding 

product range. 

What is certified? Cembrit 

Patina, Solid and Cover are all 

“A2-s1, d0” fire rated fibre 

cement rainscreen cladding 

panels. They have been 

assessed by the BBA and awarded certificate number 18/5600 for use 

as exterior non-load bearing, decorative external cladding on timber 

or metal vertical supports over timber frame, steel frame or masonry 

external walls for both new and existing buildings. 

Why the BBA? BBA approval is recognised by building control, 

government departments, architects, local authorities, specifiers, and 

industry insurers like the National House Builders Council (NHBC). 

What is assessed? The BBA Certificate 18/5600 was awarded after 

Cembrit Patina, Cembrit Solid and Cembrit Cover all passed a series of 

comprehensive assessments, including laboratory tests, on-site 

evaluations, quality management checks and inspections of 

production. 

Other considerations Cembrit fibre cement decorative rainscreen 

claddings are marketed as the most cost competitive fibre cement 

claddings available in the UK. 

www.cembrit.co.uk 

Stay on guard with Kee walk 

Kee Safety, a global supplier of 

fall protection equipment and 

safety railing systems, has 

expanded its range of safe 

access solutions for roof top 

walkways and stepovers with 

the introduction of Kee Walk ® 

with Guardrail. A cost effective 

and modular approach to 

guardrail protection, this system 

provides roofers, contractors 

and maintenance teams with a 

clear demarcation route to 

eliminate potential fall hazards. 

Designed to provide a level, 

anti-slip walking surface on standing seam, composite panels and 

metal roofing, Kee Walk ® with Guardrail can be easily adapted to a 

wide range of roof surfaces, slopes, steps, traverses and pitches up 

to 35⁰. Thanks to its modular design, the system can be quickly 

and easily set up and mounted to the roof, with no need for any 

on site assembly, bespoke brackets or fabrication. 

Kee Walk ® with Guardrail can be used in conjunction with Kee 

Safety stepover platforms to provide safe access across roof 

mounted pipework, low level walls and other plant 

equipment. 

www.keesafety.co.uk 


magazine 



Fit Show 2019 preview 

Iso-Chemie announces new partnership at Fit Show. 

Foam tape sealant specialist ISO-CHEMIE stand (N35) will be marking 10 years in the UK at the FIT 

Show 2019 with plans for an ‘exciting’ new partnership and displays of high-performance 

airtightness and energy efficiency solutions for windows and doors. 

Set to confirm a formal tie-up with three other sector leaders, ISO-CHEMIE’s move will herald a complete 

‘cradle-to-grave’ service spanning everything to do with fenestration - from window sales through 

installation to aftercare and support. Preferential rates will also be available to customers within the new 

group. 

National sales manager Andy Swift, who alongside with other experts, will be demonstrating products on the stand, said: “As we mark 10 

years in the UK, we are very excited about announcing our new partnership - a move that’s set to deliver a package of benefits across the 

fenestration sector. 

“We continue to see a growing appreciation of effective sealant products, which is leading to the increased use of foam-based 

technologies to close more sales and develop new business opportunities.” 

ISO-CHEMIE will also be showcasing its ISO-TOP WINFRAMER thermal insulating and load bearing bracket system for the rapid 

installation of windows, which has been fire rated to E30. 

Complete with Class E and an intumescent Class C certification, the product can protect the entire window area from fire for a minimum 

of 30 minutes, guaranteeing the retention of structural integrity, as well as supporting at least 200kg/m and providing an air-tight cavity 

support. 

Also debuting will the company’s new BIM (building information modelling) technology, which will enable architects and designers to 

integrate high quality scaled digital information around window and door sealing solutions as part of their 3D visualisations. 

ISO-CHEMIE is one of Europe’s main producers of impregnated foam sealants, specialising in the manufacturer of foam products 

from polyethylene (EPE), polypropylene (EPP) and polyurethane (PUR) using the latest production techniques. 

www.iso-chemie.eu/en-GB/home 

New & improved EZWall launched 

Euroform Enhances EZWall Brick Cladding System. 

Construction material specialist, Euroform, is continuing to widen the variety of finishes 

available in its already popular EZWall cladding system range, which cleverly combines 

the advantages of modern construction techniques with the appeal of traditional 

brickwork. 

The range has been expanded due to an increase in demand for decorative cladding applications 

where installation is quicker and to a higher standard than traditionally built masonry walls. 

Designed with aesthetics in mind, EZWall provides both a decorative and durable finish to vertical 

external walls and can even be matched to existing brickwork with its growing choice of sizes, 

patterns, stone and brick types. The improved cladding system range is a reliable solution for 

applications on domestic and commercial buildings, from garden to gable walls. EZWall can be 

fitted to all types of substrates including steel frame systems, timber frame systems and block work. 

John Taylor, Technical Director at Euroform, said: “There has been increasing demand in the 

market to find solutions for creating authentic brickwork designs on buildings without the high 

cost of materials and labour. EZWall is as 

visually attractive as traditional brickwork yet far more cost effective to install on a 

multitude of substrates. Euroform offer an extensive and growing range of EZWall 

designs for any project.” 

The cladding system is lightweight at approximately 35kg/m2 based on a 15mm slip, 

making it easy to handle and install. Its low weight also means EZWall can be used in 

areas that have no load bearing support structure, and no specialist tools or clips are 

required for installation. 

The system benefits from full depth mortar joints combined with a dual weeping 

mechanism design which allows for superior drainage of accumulated moisture, 

developed for years of strength and durability. 

www.euroform.co.uk 


magazine 

21

Interior Refurbishment 

Stannah weaves tailored lift 

access in UK’s oldest silk mill 

A Stannah passenger lift is weaving tailored access throughout Whitchurch Silk 

Mill, a Grade II*-listed Georgian working watermill undergoing a £2.1m 

regeneration into a fully accessible, industrial heritage attraction. 

Built in 1815 and sited on the River Test 

near Winchester, Hampshire, this 

historic mill weaves silk fabrics using 

19th-century machinery. One of just four 

working silk mills in the country, it is the only 

one open to visitors. 

As such, accessibility is key to the mill’s 

ongoing Preserving the Fabric project, a 

Heritage Lottery Fund scheme focused on the 

mill’s sustainable future via conservation, 

repair, extension and new build works. 

The bespoke passenger lift 

With three floors of facilities to access, a 

passenger lift was essential, with Stannah the 

provider of choice to supply, install and 

maintain it. However, Environment Agency 

and Natural England constraints made 

installation problematic, as the lift shaft had to 

project over the River Test, a Site of Special 

Scientific Interest, without the supporting 

structure interfering with the flow of water. 

Stannah came up with a design solution 

comprising a projecting shaft structure 

supported by struts on the mill’s exterior, riverfacing 

wall. By reducing the headroom, this 

shaft structure blended effortlessly with 

roofline. 

The lift itself was supplied and installed in its 

own structure which eliminated the need for a 

dedicated lift shaft, with the integral structure 

tying in to the internal walls without 

interfering with them. 

Adjusted door openings and lintel heights on 

one floor further ensured that the lift fitted its 

allotted aperture. 

The lift interior features a ceiling with light and 

timer, simple push-button operation, grab rail 

and intercom. Call buttons are located on the 

approach wall, and the neutral aesthetic is 

complemented by a glass viewing panel in the 

main door. 

An established Stannah footprint 

This wasn’t the first Stannah lift product to 

serve the premises. Its predecessor was a 

long-serving Stannah stairlift. But, with the 

upgrade and increasing footfall, this singleperson 

people-mover bowed out gracefully to 

its 4-person replacement—as Mill Director, Sue 

Tapliss, comments: 

“We had three rock-solid reasons to specify a 

Stannah passenger lift: Our beloved stairlift 

had delivered long, reliable service—thanks to 

Stannah’s outstanding customer care. 

Critically, Stannah was the only company that 

could deliver a bespoke solution to 

accommodate the installation constraints of 

the Environment Agency and Natural England. 

We also favour working with local companies 

and are reassured by Stannah’s lengthy 

pedigree in opening up heritage buildings to 

people of all mobilities—an important 

consideration when it comes to meeting the 

requirements of the Equality Act 2010. 

”We are committed to delivering disabled 

access, with the lift playing a key role in our 

access policy—which is best summed up by 

one of our lift’s many appreciative users!… 

“As a disabled person, I appreciate all the Silk 

Mill does to make us able to see so much…” 

As with all Stannah lift products, the Stannah 

platform lift is covered by Stannah’s 

comprehensive lift service plan, which 

includes four service visits in the first year, with 

continued lift maintenance by the Southern 

England branch of Stannah Lift Services, part 

of a nationwide network providing 

comprehensive lift servicing and support. 

www.stannahlifts.co.uk 


magazine 



Stevenage Borough 

Council specifies 

Fibo panels 

Stevenage Borough Council has specified Fibo 

bathroom panels in a refurbishment of an 

indoor market in the town centre. 

Fibo’s simple tongue-and-groove Aqualock 

design means the panels can be installed five 

times faster than tiles. 

“The project took just two weeks to complete,” 

comments Godfrey Shaw, Building Surveyor for 

Stevenage Borough Council, who specified the 

panels. 

The panels replaced existing tiles behind the mirrors 

and the urinals in the public toilets. “The tiles were quite dated and needed maintenance,” explains Godfrey. “The new panels not only 

look better, with a more contemporary look; they are more cost effective to fit and keep clean. We had a limited budget for this project 

so it made sense all round. 

“I was impressed with the service too. Fibo provided samples and gave us advice from the outset on which panels would be suitable 

and guidance on installation. We plan on using Fibo panels in future projects.” 

Made from laminated birch, with PVC or brushed aluminium profile edges, Fibo wall panels provide a hygienic, watertight system 

and can be fitted directly onto walls, including tiles or stud partitioning. 

To find out more call 01494 771242, follow @Fibo_UK on Twitter or visit the website. 

www.fibo.co.uk 

Altro ensemble hits perfect note for 

music store 

Altro Ensemble luxury vinyl tiles 

have been used in hi-fi and home 

cinema specialist Fidelity Acker & 

Buck’s flagship Hamburg store. 

The store concept includes six 

studios designed by renowned 

artist Margarita Kriebitzsch, giving 

Fidelity's customers a realistic 

impression of how their chosen 

home entertainment system 

could look and sound at home. 

Each studio features different 

design and equipment, and there 

is also a headphone lounge for 

audio / video installation systems - a comprehensive sound universe. 

For the 1,000m² of floor space for the studios on two floors, the 

designer Roman Mundhenk of WildWalls recommended Altro 

Ensemble modular flooring system, which offers 15dB sound 

reduction, to Fidelity. The premium floor combines the functional 

requirements of the studios with their aesthetic and high-quality 

atmosphere. 

Fidelity took several months to design and implement the studios, 

which included testing Altro Ensemble at the studio. This showed its 

15dB sound reduction meets the requirement for a noise-reducing 

environment. The high-quality flooring was also selected as it is 

extremely hard-wearing and durable, while being easy to clean. 

www.altro.co.uk 

PRO-RAILING 

The Stainless Steel Handrail Component System 

THE PER- 

FECT FINISH 

FOR YOUR 

HANDRAIL 

PROJECT 

TOP RAIL SYSTEMS 

OVAL RECTANGLE ROUND SQUARE 

The Master Catalogue is out now 

Visit www.fhbrundle.co.uk to view 

or download a copy today! 

01708 25 35 45 prorailing@brundle.com www.fhbrundle.co.uk 

® 


magazine


Altro serves up dream kitchen for 

celebrity chef 

An Altro floor-toceiling 

solution has 

helped to provide 

celebrity chef, Richard 

Bainbridge, with a 

dream kitchen for his 

award-winning 

Norwich restaurant. 

Richard won BBC2’s 

Great British Menu in 

2015, and opened 

Benedicts, in Norwich, 

three years ago. The restaurant has since won a raft of awards 

and been named in The Times Top 100 Restaurants in the UK, 

Square Meal Top 100, and been awarded 3AA Rosettes. 

Altro Stronghold 30 achieves Altro’s highest rating for slip 

resistance and is designed to minimise risk in areas exposed to 

grease, oils and fats for the lifetime of the flooring. 

As well as helping to keep staff safe from slips, it also helps 

reduce their fatigue, thanks to its 3mm thickness which provides 

noise reduction and comfort underfoot. 

Altro has added five new colours to the Altro Stronghold 

range and also increased the guarantee from 15 to 

20 years. 


Dunham-Bush at the nerve centre of 

V&A Dundee 

Dunham- 

Bush has 

supplied 

Leopard fan 

coil units and 

BM fan 

convectors to 

the new V&A 

Dundee, an 

£80m 

international 

centre of 

design, which presents the brilliance of Scottish creativity alongside 

some of the best design from around the world. 

Dunham-Bush fan coil units were selected not simply to meet thermal 

and airflow rate requirements, but also to satisfy noise levels 

constraints, while fitting comfortably within the limited space available 

in the ceiling voids. Series BM fan convectors provide a highly efficient 

and reliable heating source where safety and ease of maintenance are 

key features. The Dunham-Bush units provide heating to the building’s 

vital security, workshop and communications nerve centre. 

The V&A was established in 1852 as the leading art and design 

museum in the world. V&A Dundee ‘provides a place of inspiration, 

discovery and learning through its mission to enrich lives through 

design. 


Benif Interior Film on display at NEC 

The NEC in Birmingham 

opened in 1976 with 

seven exhibition halls, 

now they have nineteen 

and hold some 500 

events attracting over six 

million people every year. 

As part of their ongoing 

refurbishment 

programme, Benif Interior 

Film from David Clouting 

was specified to refurbish one of the many washroom facilities located 

throughout the exhibition halls. 

Specialist contractor T6 totally transformed the washroom in under 7 

days by covering the existing walls, cubicle doors and paneling with a 

selection of designs and finishes from the Benif Interior Film range. 

An elegant marble design was used on the walls and a classic wood 

look for the cubicle doors matched with a grey metallic finish for the 

cubicle surrounds and paneling. 

Benif Interior Film, manufactured by LG Hausys, is a self-adhesive, 

architectural film that can be easily applied to most interior surfaces, 

with over 400 designs and finishes to choose from walls, doors, 

paneling, skirting and architrave can be quickly refurbished to provide 

a stunning, cost effective finish. 

Benif Interior Film is CE and IMO Certified so can be specified with 

confidence for a wide range of applications. 

www.davidclouting.co.uk 

Rinnai A-rated Infinity range for a 

low nox infinite supply of hot water 

Available from leading manufacturer 

Rinnai is claimed to be the most 

energy efficient, low NOx and costeffective 

range of A-rated water 

heaters across a range of load 

profiles compared with any other 

gas fired continuous flow water 

heaters on the UK market. 

RINNAI SOLO - The Infinity Solo 

condensing, low NOx condensing 

water heater, is the first Rinnai 

product for the UK to combine the 

advanced technology of its wall 

mounted continuous flow water 

heaters with a stainless-steel storage 

cylinder in one compact unit. 

RINNAI INFINITY PLUS - The Infinity Plus solution brings together 

multiple units of the company’s award-winning low NOx water 

heaters into single, easily manoeuvrable modules. All preassembled 

on ready fixed racks designed to fit through standard 

door frames. 

RINNAI INFINITY INDUSTRY SPECIFIC BESPOKE PACK - 

The Rinnai Bespoke Packs have been designed to provide 

better on-site efficiency and is supplied to site in one 

complete package, ready for instant installation. 



magazine 



Change is in the air 

Government departments are pouring over technical data and preparing new directives, trade bodies are examining every 

aspect of potential market implications. No, this is not another missive on BREXIT, but the reality of the changing world 

concerning Fire Doors and related risk critical products. Change is in the air and everyone should be aware of the urgent 

need to specify truly compliant products that play a significant role in the process of safety. 

• Environmentally robust (all products are FSC 

Certified) 

• Longevity with a 10 Year Guarantee 

Following the tragic events of the 

Grenfell disaster in 2017, a greater 

understanding began to emerge 

regarding the lack of a holistic approach to 

fire safety and the evident shortcomings of 

custom and practice, where the cheapest 

solution took precedence over properly 

certified and tested fire safe product 

solutions, such as fire doors and fire door 

assemblies. 

The recently published document Building a 

Safer Future, commits the government to a 

programme of reform which includes: 

• The implementation of the Hackitt 

recommendations 

• Create a more effective regulatory and 

accountability framework 

• The introduction of clearer standards and 

guidance 

• A vision to create a culture change 

The result of these actions will mean tougher 

sanctions for those who disregard residents’ 

safety, and more rigorous standards. In fact 

the Government has committed to carrying 

out a full technical review of Approved 

Document B. This will propose potential 

changes to a range of technical issues within 

the current Approved Document. 

While we all await the inevitable changes to 

legislation and good practice, it is encouraging 

to learn that Dame Judith Hackitt’s 

independent recommendations will form a 

cornerstone of the changes to come. Shaping 

future product specification, installation and 

ongoing use throughout the life cycle of 

buildings. 

For specifiers struggling to evaluate fire door 

solutions in this changing world, especially in 

respect to residential high-rise and complex 

buildings. It is comforting to know that 

Vicaima fire performance products offer a 

benchmark to the industry, with exceptional 

test evidence and incorporating key elements 

of Hackitt’s recommendations that less 

enlightened manufacturers have yet to adopt. 

Third party accreditation is assured, as Vicaima 

adhere to not one but two nationally 

recognised and highly reputable bodies to 

verify the performance of our products, 

namely BWF-Certifire and BM TRADA Q-Mark. 

In each case traceability is always visible with 

the use of tamper evident labels and plastic 

plugs to provide clear understanding of fire 

rating and of course origin of manufacture. 

This simple but effective marking, alongside a 

detailed inkjet stamp system to identify exact 

date of manufacture, enables Vicaima to 

establish complete control of our products 

throughout their lifecycle. 

Of course the fire door in itself does not 

provide the complete solution, this can only 

be achieved with compatible and rigorously 

tested components, including the correct 

frame and ironmongery. This is why alongside 

fire doors, Vicaima also manufacture an 

extensive range of door kit solutions to create 

a complete, fully tested assembly via our Easi- 

Fit and Portaro brands. These products provide 

complete peace of 

mind, with a full 

scope of 

performance 

characteristics for 

current and future 

housing 

specifications, 

namely: 

• Fire Tested to BS 

476 Part 22 and BS 

EN 

1634-1:2014 

• Secure by Design 

approved products 

• Acoustic 

performance, both 

inherent and 

additional as 

required 

• FD30 and FD60 

rated, plus smoke 

seals to FD30s and 

FD60s 

• Durability with 

DD171 and EN 1192 

severe 

duty rating 

• Mobility provision 

via glazing and 

dimensional 

flexibility 

As specialist fire performance door 

manufacturers Vicaima have long understood 

the need to go above and beyond industry 

norms and simple compliance to provide 

cutting edge and safe solutions that are fit for 

today’s market. Vicaima has always prided 

itself on the construction of its fire doors, 

never cutting corners or compromising, 

regardless of whether it’s a humble painted 

door or a fashion conscious designer product. 

Performance and design go hand in hand at 

Vicaima with innovative designs options 

encompassing finish foil, veneer, laminates 

and paint lacquered surfaces; including cost 

effective products for demanding projects. 

Whatever future regulatory changes lie in 

store for our industry you can be assured that 

Vicaima fire performance offers appropriate 

solutions and the first choice for a safer 

tomorrow. 

www.vicaima.com 


magazine 

25

Kitchens, Bathrooms & Washrooms 

New business development 

manager for Dunham-Bush 

Dunham-Bush, one of the UK’s 

leading heating and cooling 

equipment manufacturers, has 

appointed Dave Parsons to 

Business Development 

Manager of its Cooling Division. 

Dave has worked for Dunham- 

Bush for 14 years, joining as a 

Service Engineer and 

progressing to the Service 

Manager role. Having recently 

gained a BA (Hons) in 

Leadership and Business Management, he hopes to take his skills 

base and knowledge gained into his new role. 

As the title suggests, he will be focusing on expanding the 

company’s activities in the chiller sector. Dunham-Bush has 

recently successfully re-introduced chiller production into the 

UK with a comprehensive range of technically advanced air and 

water cooled chillers in a range of outputs from 35 to 14,068kW. 

In addition to chillers, Dunham-Bush manufactures and 

distributes an extensive range of heat emitters, including LST 

radiators, radiant panels, fan convectors, door curtains, 

trench and perimeter heating and fan coil units. 


Future-proofed bathrooms 

Smart bathroom flooring choices can 

help people stay independent in their 

own homes for longer, explains 

Esther Bond, Housing Consultant at 

Altro. 

Home adaptations allow individuals 

who are disabled, ageing or 

vulnerable to continue to live in their 

own homes for longer. This does 

require, however, homes to be 

adapted to provide a safe and 

comfortable environment for them to 

live in. When houses are adapted, you 

need to not only consider the needs of the individual now, but in the 

future. Physical and mental health can deteriorate over time, and to 

have a familiar environment that does not have to be changed 

reduces stress and confusion after the house modification. 

The bathing experience is an important part of life and environments 

should help people feel safe and relaxed. Colour is a way of achieving 

this, creating a warm, comforting and homely environment, even 

where the home is adapted with specialist equipment. We can 

recommend colour combinations that are appropriate for people with 

dementia and those with visual impairments. 

In people’s homes more than anywhere, a comfortable, welcoming 

and attractive look matters. There are plenty of safety flooring options 

with contemporary shades that suit any domestic environment, 

including latest innovations with a soft-look finish that is more homely 

than traditional safety flooring. 


AKW launches its new anti-slip vinyl flooring range 

AKW, one of the UK’s leading providers of accessibility solutions, continues to build its one stop shop offering for 

bathroom adaptation installers with the launch of a new anti-slip vinyl flooring range. 

Available from February, installers will be able to choose from six colours and the 

design of this durable safety flooring has been developed considering risk of falls 

factors such as slip resistance, visual contrast and texture. 

Suitable for wet rooms as well as other bathroom adaptations - due to its high barefoot and 

footwear slip resistance - the flooring range conforms to both HSE and International 

standards. In fact its PTV (Pendulum Test Value) exceeds wet room requirement standards, 

providing complete peace of mind for end users. 

The six colours options have been chosen based on their popularity within the bathroom 

adaptation market. However, as a care provider, the flooring design does not contain any 

large speckles, as these can be interpreted as pieces of dirt by those with dementia, resulting 

in the bathroom user attempting to pick them up and increasing the risk of fall. 

AKW’s new flooring range is two metres wide and can be cut to order in incremental lengths 

of half a metre. Alongside this cut to order service, AKW is also offering installers a range of 

other products for fitting the flooring on screeded, concrete and wooden floors. These 

include levelling compound, latex liquid, flooring and contact adhesive and floor colour 

matching weld rods. 

Stuart Reynolds, Head of Product and Marketing at AKW comments: “The new anti-slip 

flooring range is another addition to the one-stop-shop of products that we are launching to 

make installers’ lives easier. The addition 

of our new anti-slip flooring range to our tiling and timber offerings means that installers can come to AKW for even more of the 

components needed for a bathroom adaptation, saving time and reducing the risk of delay for an installation.” 

www.akw-ltd.co.uk 


magazine 


Kitchens, Bathrooms & Washrooms 

Give your bathroom the LOVE it deserves 

When it comes to home decorating, are you a free-thinking maverick or a slave to the latest trends? 

The new grey shades have been introduced 

to the Multipanel Reflect Range of beautiful 

lustrous faux glass wall panels (pictured); to 

the Heritage Collection (Graphite Twill) wall 

panels; and to the Multipanel Tile and 

Economy Ranges. Five new shades of grey, 

including Urban Anthracite Grey (pictured); 

and Urban Graphite Grey also feature among 

the seven new Click waterproof flooring 

styles. 

Big and beautiful 

More than a passing nod has been given to 

ceramic tiles in Multipanel’s 2019 new 

product line-up. New panels in the everpopular 

Tile Range now feature a tile format 

measuring over half a metre (560mm x 

560mm). The larger format panels, come in 

White, Light Grey Stone Embossed and 

Charcoal Stone Embossed, each works 

wonders in creating spacious luxurious 

bathrooms. 

Panels in the Tile Range have the authentic 

look of ceramic tiles, but with no grout to 

discolour over the years. The panels can also 

be fitted over existing tiles. 

As with all Multipanel waterproof wall 

panels, installation is quick and inexpensive, 

and they are super easy to clean. Definitely 

the smart alternative to bathroom tiles for 

affordable luxury. 

www.multipanel.co.uk 

Whatever your persuasion, you will 

find your own style of perfection 

in Multipanel’s new 2019 

Collection. 

Hot on the heels of the company’s hugely 

successful launches of the Linda Barker and 

Heritage Collections in 2018, Multipanel is 

introducing 18 brand new waterproof wall 

panel and flooring products. 

The new greys: today’s go-to neutrals 

As far as decorative preferences go, grey 

continues to top the charts for home 

owners. Its sheer versatility and extensive 

tonal range, from almost black (Graphite 

Elements, Linda Barker Collection, pictured) 

to much softer, lighter shades (Jupiter Silver, 

Classic Collection, pictured) make grey this 

year’s go-to neutral for the home decorator. 

Sarah McLean, Multipanel’s managing 

director, said, “Bathroom makeovers are not 

something our customers want to do very 

often, so it’s important for us to ensure we 

can provide them with products capable of 

transcending the latest trend reports – ones 

that will continue to look current for 10-15 

years or more.” 

“Grey offers a perfect canvas for staying on 

trend. It is so easy to find new accessories 

that blend beautifully with it – a splash of 

paint on an adjoining wall, for instance, or a 

new mirror or brassware can help to 

reinvent a space with the minimum of fuss. 

And the timeless properties of soft, relaxed 

greys are guaranteed to endure over many 

years.” 

Multipanel Linda Barker Graphite Elements combined with Sicilia Click Flooring 


magazine 

27

Lighting & Electrical Systems 

Can gathering data really save lives? 

Since the tragic events of June 2017, 

which saw 72 people lose their lives in 

the fire that engulfed Grenfell Tower in 

West London, the area surrounding 

building safety and compliance is now, 

more than ever before, at the forefront 

of people’s minds. 

The Capita Symonds report 

highlighted the lack of a compliant 

emergency lighting system in Grenfell 

tower in 2005. Whether this situation 

remained in place up to and during the 

tragic events of June 2017 is not clear, 

but what is certain is that a noncompliant 

emergency lighting system could only have added to 

the general feeling of panic and disorientation. In short, it would 

have served as a hindrance rather than help. If we have the 

opportunity to help maintain the on-going compliance of these 

buildings and the safety of their occupants, by producing 

intelligent technologies, we should take it. These are just some 

of the benefits that intelligent emergency control gears can offer 

through their diagnostic functionality. As developments expand, 

many more values can be recorded and used to aid more 

efficient, preventative maintenance and thereby ensure the 

scheme remains compliant and effective, whilst keeping 

tighter control of the costs associated with reactive 

maintenance. 

www.mackwell.com 

Daylighting takes off at Heathrow 

Curtainwall 

Engineers and 

Kalwall distributor 

Structura has 

recently completed 

a challenging but 

fascinating ‘replace 

and refurbishment’ 

project at 

Heathrow’s T4. This 

in conjunction with 

Structural Engineers 

Webb Yates for a 

scheme designed by 

Pascall+Watson architects. The project proved so successful that main 

contractor Balfour Beatty named Structura as their ‘Most Promising 

New Supplier 2018’. 

Replacing ageing glass rooflights originally installed in the 1980’s, 1750 

square metres of Kalwall Skyroof cladding is being used above the 

Terminal’s International Departure Lounge and check-in desks. Fully 

ASAID compliant with regards to blast performance, Kalwall improves 

the solar control and insulation to the space below. In this project, its 

inherent strength in a lightweight frame means the existing substrate 

could be adapted and reused - saving £7m in project costs and more 

than a year from the build programme. The whole retrofit was 

completed externally in ‘engineering hours’ using a bespoke moving 

scaffold, meaning there was no disruption to the inside of the building. 

www.structura-uk.com/kalwall 

City College in class of its own following second led 

lighting installation 

Fitzgerald Lighting has recently been involved in the installation of a new 

LED lighting scheme at City College Plymouth’s STEM Building following a 

successful lighting application at another of the college’s buildings. 

The £13m Regional Centre of Excellence for STEM (science, technology, 

engineering and maths) opened in autumn 2017 and boasts a range of fantastic 

facilities. 

The centre was developed with the input of over 200 employers and aims to help give 

City College students the edge in a competitive job market. 

Fitzgerald Lighting’s Phantom, Eclipse, Cosmo, Celestial and Dustproof LED luminaires 

were installed by Totus Engineering alongside an emergency lighting system to give the 

building a better light output and to ensure energy and cost savings. More than 900 of 

Fitzgerald Lighting’s luminaires were used across the STEM building’s reception, communal areas, classrooms and stairwells. 

Gilbert Snook, Head of Estates at City College Plymouth commented, “We’ve been using Fitzgerald’s systems with success for 20 years as 

their luminaires provide a good quality of light, are low maintenance and have cut our running costs substantially. We like to use 

companies in the area as we are keen to support local purchasing and our local economy, and Fitzgerald provided good customer service 

and the units look great, we are very happy with the results.” 

Used throughout the site’s reception, entrance and communal areas is Fitzgerald Lighting’s Phantom luminaire. The Phantom recessed 

downlighters are designed to be cost effective, efficient and functional. Compact, lightweight and stylish, the Phantom uses top quality 

LEDs giving up to 80% energy saving in installations. The Phantom is used by Fitzgerald Lighting frequently for a wide range of 

applications from receptions, board rooms and corridors to galleries and shops. 

www.fitzlight.co.uk 


magazine 


Progressive logistics group makes big energy 

savings with led lighting rollout 

EcolightingUK is progressively installing its LED lighting at Bibby Distribution sites across the country following its project at the 

Wakefield site to upgrade the previous fluorescent systems almost three years ago. 

As part of the Bibby Line Group, Bibby 

Distribution has been changing the 

way that businesses think about 

their logistics for more than 30 years. 

With the group’s 200-year heritage and 

long-term experience all over the UK and 

overseas, Bibby’s services cover the end to 

end supply chain, from materials into 

manufacturing plants to sequencing, storage 

and distribution. 

Each of the 44 racking aisles and marshalling 

areas at Bibby’s Wakefield warehouse have 

been fitted with Ecolighting’s Pegasus LEDs 

to replace the original T5 fittings that were 

in place. Six 250w Pegasus LED luminaires 

per aisle now provide an improved light level 

and work alongside the Altos emergency 

LED high bay sensors which make savings 

based on the level of activity. Ecolighting has 

also installed nine of its Medusa LED amenity 

luminaires outside the building and in the 

car park and HGV yard. 

Chris Earle, Property Asset Manager at Bibby 

Distribution, commented, “Ecolighting were 

part of a competitive tender process for the 

lighting upgrade in Wakefield and provided 

the best all round solution to fit our 

requirements. Since that time we have gone 

on to work together on a number of similar 

projects throughout the portfolio.” 

He continued, “There are a number of 

benefits that have come from installing the 

new LEDs. These include meeting the 

required lux level and exceeding the 

minimum required, not having to worry 

about regular upkeep and maintenance for 

the fittings and having the emergency 

lighting feature included was another 

requirement taken care of. The Ecolighting 

products are cost effective, have saved us 

around 66% in energy savings and helping to 

reduce our carbon foot print in line with our 

Road to Zero campaign. We are very happy 

with the results and would recommend 

Ecolighting to anyone looking to upgrade 

their lighting.” 

Ecolighting’s Pegasus uses an Osram driver 

and top quality Osram LEDs to give 166 

lumens per watt and up to 80% energy 

saving in installations. At Bibby, this 

represents an annual saving of more than 

£88,000 in energy, replacement lamps, 

climate change levy reductions, 

maintenance and carbon credits. 

Ideal for use in streets, security, car parks 

and building exteriors, the Medusa LED 

luminaire provides the benefit of huge cost 

savings and makes a substantial difference 

to energy bills. Eco-friendly and energysaving, 

the Medusa has no radiation or 

emitting heat, and is free from mercury, lead 

and other harmful substances. Its innovative 

thermal management design has an 

effective low LED junction temperature, 

ensuring the lifespan of the light source and 

its power supply. 

By replacing the external lighting at Bibby’s 

Wakefield site with Medusa LED luminaires, 

this has resulted in an annual saving of 

almost £4,000 in energy, replacement lamps, 

climate change levy reductions, 

maintenance and carbon credits. 

Unlike many other lighting companies, 

Ecolighting has its own team of lighting and 

electrical installation engineers as well as 

carrying out the lighting scheme design with 

Relux software in the early stages of client 

lighting projects. The company also 

manufactures its luminaires in the UK and 

uses UK-sourced Osram control gear and 

LED chips. All of this means that the 

company has much better control than 

many and can present better value for 

money to clients. The company is also a 

Carbon Trust Accredited Supplier, assessed 

to BSEN ISO 9001:2015 and are members of 

the Lighting Industry Association. 

As one of the UK leaders in LED lighting 

solutions to commerce and industry, 

Ecolighting has worked with many other big 

name companies such as Debenhams, 

Kuehne Nagel, Man Truck & Bus, Carlsberg, 

Culina and Cadbury. 

Further information on energy saving LED 

lighting schemes is available from 

Ecolighting on 01455 552511, by emailing 

enquiries@ecolightinguk.com or by visiting 

the company’s website. 

www.ecolightinguk.com 


magazine

Doors, Windows & Fittings 

Sliding version of Crittall 

InnerVision steel screens launched 

Creating a seamless 

transition between internal 

areas by opening or 

closing space is now 

possible with new single 

or double leaf sliding 

doors from Crittall’s range 

of InnerVision interior 

screens. The new doors 

offer wider opening areas 

than more intrusive 

hinged alternatives by 

virtue of their sliding 

design maximising use of 

inside room space, 

particularly where it may 

be limited. 

Offering the strength and 

ultra-slim profile which are the hallmark of the Crittall range of 

products the InnerVision range allows the sub-division of 

internal commercial or domestic spaces without interrupting the 

transmission of light or reducing valuable space. 

Each screen or door is created specifically to suit the 

application, panel shape or size, with single or double 

glazing using clear, decorative or obscure glass. 

www.crittall-windows.co.uk 

12th Century Abbey Selects Advanced 

to Protect its Priceless Artifacts 

Jedburgh Abbey, a 

12th century 

Augustinian abbey 

located on the Scottish 

Borders, has selected 

the industry-leading 

MxPro 5 panel, from 

Advanced, to protect a 

rich heritage of 

treasures on display in 

its visitor centre. 

Founded by David I, 

King of the Scots, nearly 1000 years ago and famed for its unusual 

architecture, Jedburgh Abbey is one of the four great abbeys 

established in the Scottish Borders. 

Advanced were specified by the team at SAFE Services who were 

appointed to design, install and commission the replacement of an 

ageing fire system within the Abbey visitor centre, gift shop, staff 

rooms and offices, utilising existing cable runs and containments to 

avoid exposed wiring. 

Advanced has an impressive pedigree in historic and heritage site 

protection. Notable installations across the globe include World 

Heritage Sites; Durham Cathedral, Scotland’s most sacred site, Iona 

Abbey and Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia as well as other landmark buildings 

such as the Royal Albert Hall and London’s Natural History Museum. 

www.advancedco.com 

Aspex develops bespoke doorsets for student 

accommodation 

Aspex, one of the UK’s leading architectural ironmongery and doorset companies, has secured a contract to supply a 

bespoke range of doorsets to the 900 bed Paradise Street student accommodation scheme in Coventry. 

Working alongside FBM Architects, Aspex has created a 

custom-built version of its Novista Riser Steel 

Doorsets. The system features a bottom and over 

panel to create a full height door with a slim flush frame 

allowing more space for the M&E equipment for the project. 

Over 700 Novista Riser Doorsets are being supplied and a project 

specific fire test was carried out at BM Trada. This included a 

50mm high Nullifire Batt board above the overpanel for the M&E 

services to pass through. 

Aspex is also supplying the internal timber doorsets and the 

access control system which includes an electronic lock on all of 

the bedrooms, allowing students to access the building and their rooms with a card or their smartphone for enhanced safety. 

Ashley Burberry, Managing Director at Aspex, says: “The student accommodation sector has been hugely successful for us. We’re 

delighted to have the opportunity to create a bespoke version of our doorsets which emphasises the versatility of our Novista Riser 

system. The access control system ensures students remain safe, allowing us to take safety to new heights.” 

David Taylor, Senior Architect at FBM Architects, adds: “For this particular project, we required a frameless doorset that we could 

paint on site to match the walls. The Novista system met our requirements and we are really pleased with how the doors look 

and blend into the surroundings.” 

www.aspex-uk.co.uk 


magazine 


Doors, Windows & Fittings 

New window from Schueco UK is latest in company’s 

Panorama range 

New from Schueco UK, Britain’s leading specialist in aluminium and steel systems for the whole building envelope, is the 

AWS 75 PD.SI Panorama window. 

Aimed primarily at the residential market, the new window is designed for the 

construction of ribbon windows and for use as an insert in a Schueco 

mullion/transom façade system such as the Schueco FWS 35 PD. 

The Schueco AWS 75 PD.SI window features reduced internal and external facewidths 

as low as 55 mm that enable it to deliver a whole new level of transparency, 

yet the window is still able to achieve an excellent Uw value of 0.87 W/m2K. 

This is in line with the company’s other Panorama systems that all offer the narrow 

face-widths that make possible large areas of clear glazing, but without any 

diminution of the insulation values that are essential for maximising energy 

performance. 

In addition, it has an attractive flush appearance thanks to smooth internal profiles 

and there is a stylish ergonomically designed handle without rosettes that can be 

fitted with a lock if required. 

The Schueco AWS 75 PD.SI can accommodate vent sizes up to 2.5 m and glass weights up to 160 kg, with watertightness up to 600 Pa and 

burglar resistance up to RC2. 

Versatility in use is assured by a wide range of profiles that include corner mullions, structural mullions, symmetrical and asymmetrical 

mullions and Schueco TipTronic automated toplights. 

The inclusion of SimplySmart intelligent components mean that fabrication is swift and economical and the window sits 

comfortably within the Schueco AWS modular system. 

www.schueco.com 

Selectaglaze thermally enhances 19th Century Lodge to 

21st Century standards 

Built at the start of the 19th Century, this striking entrance lodge located in Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire has morphed into 

a comfortable living space with the assistance of Selectaglaze secondary glazing. 

The Grade II Listed lodge is at the entrance of an estate that leads to a main country house 

built in 1675. 

The lodge is clad with decorative carved renaissance style panels and painted entirely black. The 

lodge fell into a state of disrepair a few years ago and required a thorough renovation, including the 

more recent sympathetic rear extension, before being deemed suitable for inclusion in the rental 

market. 

To improve the insulation a bespoke and sympathetic solution was required, which would not 

detract from the historic features so the Estate Manager Giles Paddison contacted Selectaglaze, to 

provide a solution for the thermal inefficiencies. 

Selectaglaze installed six units from its Series 10 range and one Series 45 single side hung casement. 

This, along with high performance seals, helped to virtually eliminate unwanted draughts and 

provide a more comfortable living space for the tenants. The inclusion of a low emissivity hard coat 

on the laminate glass reduces the U-value of the window combination to the range 1.7 to 

1.9W/m2K. 

“The Selectaglaze secondary glazing units fitted to the lodge enabled us to retain the listed leaded 

light windows while improving the thermal and acoustic efficiency beyond recognition.” Estate 

manager Giles Paddison 

Established in 1966 and Royal Warrant Holder since 2004, Selectaglaze is the leading specialist in 

secondary glazing. 

For further information, please contact Selectaglaze on 01727 837271 enquiries@selectaglaze.co.uk or visitthe website. 

www.selectaglaze.co.uk 


magazine 

31

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