October 2020

OCTOBER 2020

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Editor’s Comment

MATT DOWNS

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

MATTDOWNS@MEDIA-NOW.CO.UK

07963 330774

Specify

r

esponsibly

It’ s what’ s on the in nside that counts.

Since lockdown in March, both individuals and businesses have had to

keep track of the constant flow of information from government

designed to support them throughout the pandemic.

Most recently, Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced his Winter Economy Plan,

which included a number of measures designed to support jobs and the

economy over the coming months.

Key areas for those operating in the roofing sector to take note of were the

announcements around deferred VAT payments which can now be repaid in

instalments over 11 months; the launch of a new Job Support scheme from

November 1st to replace the furlough scheme; and flexibility around

repayment of Bounce Back loans or CBILS loans.

• Air & Vapo ur permeable

•

• No VCL req

uired

• BS5534 Compliance

www .proctorgroup.com

FOLLOW US @TOTCONTRACTORUK

SIGN UP FOR YOUR E-NEWSLETTER AT

WWW.TOTAL-CONTRACTOR.CO.UK

01250 872261

Cover image courtesy of A Proctor Group. Find out more about

their range of solutions at www.proctorgroup.com.

With this in mind, in his latest column James Talman, Chief Executive of

NFRC, discusses the new measures and outlines the key areas roofers need

to be aware of, plus explains where he feels the Chancellor needs to go

further. As James explains on page 16: “There was much to welcome in the

Chancellor’s speech, but many will be asking whether that is all. While the

industry is busy now, many contractors are concerned about workloads in

the New Year and now is the time for government to be thinking of how to

maintain demand.”

Elsewhere in this issue, Simon Ayers of TrustMark discusses the recently

launched Green Homes Grant scheme. Whilst the scheme has come in for

some criticism around delivery with regards to capacity and timescales,

Simon says opportunities still remain for installers and outlines how they

can get involved on page 54. Enjoy the issue!

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Matt

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Commercial Manager: Jake Roxborough

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Email: jakeroxborough@media-now.co.uk

The content of Total Contractor magazine (and website) does not necessarily reflect the views of the editor or publishers and

are the views of its contributors and advertisers. The digital edition may include hyperlinks to third-party content, advertising,

or websites, provided for the sake of convenience and interest. The publishers accept no legal responsibility for loss arising

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OCTOBER 2020 TC 3

Contents

3 KEY FEATURES

16 WINTER PLAN

James Talman outlines the key points roofers

need to take from the Chancellor’s Winter

Economy Plan, plus outlines what more needs

to be done help the sector in the coming months

30 CAREER MOVES

Stuart Hicks discusses career progression for

roofers and outlines what’s involved when it

comes to upskilling for supervisory or

management roles

32

54 GO FOR GREEN SCHEME

Simon Ayers discusses the Green Homes Grant

scheme which is now underway, and outlines

what installers need to do to get involved with

projects

38

FURTHER READING

26 BATTEN CHECKS

Stuart Nicholson says roofers should check they are

getting the roofing battens they pay for...

32 MATERIAL FOCUS: SLATE

Ahmed El-Helw charts the history of ‘one of the world’s

oldest and most enduringly popular roofing materials’

36 DIGITAL TOOLS

Victoria Ramwell explains how to tackle the challenges

the pandemic has presented for projects

38 EPDM SOLUTIONS

Adrian Buttress looks at EPDM systems and says proper

application is crucial to their long-lasting performance

26

50 MIXING METALS

Simon Grisewood explains how to avoid bi-metallic

corrosion on metal building envelope projects

62 STEPS TO SAFETY

Jamie Brassington looks at the tools and equipment so

roofers can minimise the risk of falls from height

4 TC OCTOBER 2020

REGULARS

18 THE APEX

Jackie Biswell looks at the challenges around

mental health for men in construction

20 SIG ROOFING

Alan Snowdon takes a closer look at the clay

roof tile market

22 PERFECTLY PITCHED

John Mercer’s latest consultant case study

focuses on tiled valleys, an area responsible

for some of the most common causes of leaks

59 QI BY QI

The experts at QI clarify what BS 8579 tells us

about the fire performance requirements of

balconies and terraces

SECTIONS:

TOTAL

ROOFING

22

TOTAL

CLADDING

50

INDUSTRY NEWS

06 ROOFCERT’S FIRST 50

The first 50 roofers to be officially accredited by

RoofCERT have been announced – could you be next?

14 GREEN SCHEME’S GREEN LIGHT

The Green Homes Grant scheme is officially underway, will

it be the boost the sector needs?

TOTAL

INSULATION

54

VEHICLES, TOOLS

& WORKWEAR

06

62

OCTOBER 2020 TC 5

Industry News

ROOFERS REQUIRED

Procurement for Housing (PfH) is searching

for SME roofing and glazing contractors

across the UK to deliver responsive repairs

and voids works to social landlords for an

initial term of five years, through a new

dynamic purchasing system (DPS).

Procurement services provider PfH, which

has over 900 members, has designed the

DPS to help housing providers clear their

backlog of routine repairs and procure repairs

flexibly in the future. New roofing and glazing

contractors can join the DPS at any time,

unlike a framework.

The total value of the reactive repairs and

voids work to be procured via the DPS is

estimated at £490million. For each category,

contractors will be required to either

supplement a social landlord’s in-house

direct labour organisation or to fully manage

an outsourced repairs and voids service,

which may include call handling, repairs

diagnostics and work scheduling.

The DPS helps small, local contractors by

streamlining the tender process. Once

suppliers have passed the DPS selection

procedure, they can quickly bid for any

opportunities by submitting a tender. There is

no need for them to go through the selection

stage again and again for each contract

opportunity.

Steve Malone, Managing Director at

Procurement for Housing said: “Social

landlords are dealing with an unprecedented

backlog of routine repairs jobs plus the

pressure of social distancing on maintenance

jobs. We hope this DPS will help the sector to

overcome some of these problems whilst also

supporting SME contractors who can quickly

register and bid without having to go through

a time-consuming tender process.”

More news, updates and interviews at www.total-contractor.co.uk

ROOFCERT ACCREDITS FIRST 50 ROOFERS

Fifty roofers from ten different

knowledge, their understanding of

roofing companies across the

six core areas of health and safety,

country have become the first

as well as their ability and

operatives to be officially

competency in their particular

‘accredited’ by RoofCERT, the UK’s

disciplines. They are now proven to

only accreditation scheme for

be masters of their craft, and this

roofing operatives.

should stand them in good stead for

their future career. I would like to

RoofCERT is professionalising the roofing industry

thank all the companies who have supported

by helping roofing operatives demonstrate their

RoofCERT by putting these operatives through the

competency and roofing contractors to upskill

process."

their teams.

He added: “The construction industry is only going

To achieve accreditation, roofers must pass a

in one direction, and that is towards a greater focus

rigorous knowledge test, undertake six health and

on competency and professionalism. We know that

safety awareness courses and demonstrate their

there are going to be new regulations around

roofing competence via practical assessment.

building safety and greater expectations around

The operatives will need to renew their

competency down the line, and these roofers are

accreditation again in three years to ensure they now future-proofed for the changes to come.

keep to up to date with changing standards and

He concluded: “There are almost 2,000 funded

regulations.

places currently available for other operatives to

While there are many companies with operatives do the same, and they should do so before the

who are close to accreditation, the following places go. We have made many changes to

companies were announced as the first ten to get ensure we can still accredit roofers through the

their operatives ‘over the line’: Aldridge & Sons Covid-19 pandemic via methods such as e-

Roofing; County Flat Roofing; Everlast Group learning awareness courses and online tests. We

Hadfield Roofing & Cladding; Jarvis & Womack; have seen a surge in demand for the scheme

NRA Roofing and Flooring Specialists; Rio Asphalt recently, and places are starting to go. So, if you

& Paving Company; SPV Group; Sussex Asphalte; are a roofing contractor thinking about putting

Treforest Tiling.

your team through the process, or an

operative who wants to prove their

Richard Miller, Head of

competency, I would urge you to

Qualifications and Standards at

join these first ten companies

RoofCERT, said: “These 50

and 50 roofers and sign up

roofers should be incredibly

now.”

proud of themselves. They have

demonstrated their technical

Left: Treforest Tiling.

To apply for inclusion visit:

www.in-tendhost.co.uk

Above:Jarvis & Womack.

Above: County Flat Roofing.

6 TC OCTOBER 2020

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Industry News

BMI REDLAND’S

GOLDEN TILE FOUND

The team at Monarch Roofing with the Golden Tile.

Monarch Roofing has won the BMI

Redland Golden Tile promotion after one of

its employees discovered the Golden Tile

while working on a roof at MOD Larkhill.

The competition, launched to celebrate 100

years of BMI Redland concrete tile

manufacture, featured a special Golden Tile,

hidden at random in a full pallet of tiles.

So, a seemingly ordinary day for the Monarch

team turned into an extraordinary one when

experienced roofer Keith Lansley, who was

loading the roof with tiles, found The Golden

Tile. Not sure if his colleague Tom Perry, who

was passing the tiles to him, was playing

some kind of joke, Keith called down asking

for an explanation. A few moments later, and

after some rummaging in the pallet, Tom

discovered an envelope with the winning

details of the Golden Tile promotion. The

winning tile had now been found.

The BMI Redland team has recently been able

to present the prize of £1000 in Amazon

vouchers. Contracts Manager, Steve Fitzgerald,

has generously shared out £700 of the

vouchers to the team of five who were on site.

Monarch owner, Nick Jenkins, has, in an

equally generous gesture, decided to give the

remaining £300 of vouchers to local charities:

“What a great way of celebrating a 100 years

of concrete tile manufacture and we’ll certainly

be celebrating. I think it’s only right that the

guys receive a fair share of the prize and that

local charities benefit from our lucky day as

well,” he commented.


BMBI POINTS TO V-SHAPED RECOVERY

Britain’s builders’ merchants sales to builders

bounced back strongly in the three months

May to July, with value sales surging 38.9%

ahead compared with February to April, as

reported in July’s Builders Merchants Building

Index (BMBI) report.

Compared with the same three months of 2019

sales were down 13.4% overall, but July sales housing RMI dropping by 17.9%. But a note of

were only 1.3% below July 2019 and some caution: we’re not comparing apples with apples;

categories were ahead. Landscaping (+25.4%), ONS numbers are provisional estimates based on

Workwear & Safetywear (+21.3%) and Timber & a sample survey, and as more information comes

Joinery Products (+1.5%) were up on the same in the estimates are revised. However, GfK’s

month last year.

Builders’ Merchant Point of Sale Tracking Data, on

which the Builders Merchant Building Index is

“These sales figures demonstrate the resilience

based, is different. It’s not a sample survey and

and strength of a V-shaped recovery in the

it’s much more focused. It doesn’t include every

sector,” explained Mike Rigby, CEO of MRA

element of housing RMI, but it includes the bulk

Research which produces the BMBI reports.

of it and it’s a very good proxy for repair,

“Builders’ merchants sell to a variety of markets,

maintenance, and improvement. The data is

including new build, but their customers –

actual value sales out to builders from generalist

general builders, developers, and other trades –

builders’ merchants, accounting for over 80% of

are the backbone of the housing RMI market. The

total sales from builders merchants throughout

ONS provisional estimates for the same three

Great Britain. It’s also validated before

months, May to July, are seemingly at odds with

publishing, so it doesn’t get revised.”

these figures, putting overall construction down

10.6%, with RMI falling 12.4% and private Report available at: www.bmbi.co.uk

BE PREPARED: HSE CRACKS DOWN ON DUST

Health and safety inspectors across Great identifies any other areas of concern, they will take

Britain will be targeting construction firms to the necessary enforcement action to deal with them.

check that their health standards are up to This will include making sure that businesses are

scratch during a month-long inspection doing all they can to protect their workers from the

initiative, which started on 5th October. risk of coronavirus. Inspectors will also be looking

for evidence of employers and workers knowing the

Inspections will focus on respiratory risks and

risks, planning their work and using the right

occupational lung disease; looking at the measures

controls. If necessary, they will use enforcement to

businesses have in place to protect their workers’

make sure people are protected.

lungs from the likes of asbestos, silica and wood

dust. This is part of HSE’s longer term health and The construction initiative will be supported by

work strategy to improve health within the

HSE’s ‘Dustbuster’ campaign, aimed to influence

construction industry.

employer behaviour by encouraging builders to

download free guidance and advice, increasing

While the primary focus will be on health during this

knowledge and capability to protect workers’

programme of inspections, if an HSE inspector

health. www.hse.gov.uk

8 TC OCTOBER 2020

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Industry News


ETERNIT IS NOW PART OF CEDRAL ROOFS

The Cedral world has grown with the

complete design flexibility.

introduction of Cedral Roofs and the addition of

Cedral Rivendale slates are designed to reflect the

Eternit slates to its range of products.

qualities of natural slate. Available in Blue-Black

Cedral Roofs brings together Eternit’s quality with or Cromleigh Graphite, Rivendale slates have a

Cedral’s innovation, continuing as the UK’s most beautifully textured surface and dressed edges.

experienced fibre cement slates company.

Cedral Birkdale slates have a smooth surface and

An integral part of homes across the UK for over a dressed edges, offering a traditional and pleasing

century, Eternit slates have deep-rooted history look of a natural slate at an affordable price.

and heritage and have been putting roofs over

Also in the range are Cedral Thrutone Smooth and

heads for decades. Cedral, which is part of the

Thrutone Textured which provide square cut edges

Etex Group says it will continue to offer the

with a smooth or textured surface. Both offer

strongest fibre cement slates in the market.

aesthetically pleasing results and are particularly

Jayne Arkell, Country Manager, Etex (Exteriors) UK, suitable for complex roof geometries.

said: “At Etex we want to offer one strong company

Cedral Roofs customers can expect the same

for all construction and architectural needs. Cedral

high-quality products and dedicated customer

is our brand dedicated to the entire house and we

service, with local managers across all corners of

are committed to driving the industry forward by

the UK, as well as a dedicated technical advisory

developing beautiful, affordable and

team. The Cedral team is on hand to support

environmentally sustainable building products.”

customers through every stage of their project.

There are four key product ranges of slates from

Cedral Roofs, all tough enough to withstand the Visit www.roof-tube.co.uk to view a video from

most volatile weather conditions, whilst providing Cedral Roofs.

CALLS FOR GHG

EXTENSION

A survey conducted by

MCS, the national

standards organisation

for renewables, has

revealed that almost

half of their certified

contractors believe

that the Green Homes

Grant (GHG) should be extended to 18

months or more.

The company asked over 800 of its

members for their views on the

government’s latest scheme, and nearly

three-quarters of MCS certified

contractors (73%) had high levels of

confidence in the scheme, saying that they

plan to offer the GHG to their customers,

while 61% of respondents said it will help

with business recovery and enable them to

grow. There were also calls for

technologies such as solar PV to be

incentivised by the government.

CONSTRUCTION MUST DRIVE UPTAKE OF NHS COVID-19 APP

Industry leaders have urged businesses of all

sizes in UK construction to lead the way in

ensuring the widest possible uptake of the NHS

COVID-19 app, which launched in England and

Wales on 24th September.

The app will enable QR check-in at venues and

sites, and CLC says it will be an important way for

NHS Test and Trace in England and NHS Test,

Trace, Protect in Wales to contact multiple people

“Construction is uniquely placed in that we have

been operating throughout the pandemic using

Site Operating Procedures to ensure COVID-secure

environments, a model of safety best practice that

has been taken up in other sectors and across the

world.

“In addition, as well as employing some 2.3

million people, our industry is highly visible to the

public in all parts of England and Wales.

industry has risen to the challenge of keeping the

when coronavirus outbreaks are identified.

economy going while protecting the safety of our

“That’s why we are urging all employers in our

workforce. The NHS COVID-19 app will be another

Andy Mitchell CBE, Co-Chair of the Construction sector to ensure QR codes are displayed

weapon in our armoury to ensure that where

Leadership Council (CLC), said: “We believe the prominently on sites and in workplaces, and that

coronavirus outbreaks do occur, those who have

construction industry can lead the way in

steps are taken to encourage employees to

been exposed are able to contacted and told to

encouraging the widest possible roll-out of this download the app and use it regularly on a daily

isolate, which will be key to suppressing this

app, which will be vital in our national fight basis.

disease over the next six months.”

against COVID-19 in the weeks and months

Throughout this emergency the construction

ahead.

Download the app: https://covid19.nhs.uk

10 TC OCTOBER 2020

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Industry News

LIFETIME SKILLS

Construction must be made a strategic

priority for life learning, according to the

Federation of Master Builders (FMB) who

were responding to the Prime Minister’s

speech outlining an expansion of post-18

education and training.

Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said:

“The Government intends for us to ‘build, build,

build’ our way to economic recovery, but the

construction industry is facing a skills shortage

which is hampering our ability to do so. One in

three builders can’t hire a bricklayer and one in

four can’t hire general labourers. The

Government is right to invest in further

education, but it should focus on the building

trades as a priority.”

Berry concluded: “The Government’s pledge to

review and reform apprenticeship training is

very encouraging provided it can lead to more

local builders training more apprentices. This

should mean forging stronger links between

SMEs and colleges so that they have access to

the communication and support that they

need. Extra funding for colleges needs to

include ringfenced funds for them to employ

industry liaison officers who could act as a

conduit between the colleges, students and

employers to help join up the dots.”

Steve Radley, CITB Policy Director, said: “More

funding and training flexibility for employers

through the Lifetime Skills Guarantee

announced by the Prime Minister is a critical

first step to support construction’s recovery.

Changing apprenticeship funding rules to

recognise prior learning and allowing large

employers to spend surplus Apprenticeship

Levy funds in bulk will be vital to ensure the

apprenticeship programme can more flexibly

respond to industry’s skills needs. This is

something that CITB and the CLC has engaged

with Government in the Roadmap to Recovery

plan, and I am delighted that the Government

has listened.”


SECTOR RISES TO LRWA’S VIRTUAL EVENT

The Liquid Roofing and Waterproofing

Association (LRWA) has revealed the winners

of its Virtual Dragon Team Challenge – an

event which has raised thousands for mental

health charity, Mates in Mind.

Teams of up to 11 people from across the

industry were challenged to walk, run, cycle or

swim as far as they could in 30 minutes. Bonus

kilometres were available for the photo of the

activity in the most original place and the team

with the highest fundraising.

The winners were awarded based on the total

kilometres achieved between 10th and 30th

August 2020. A total of 66 participants across six

teams took part and collectively travelled 377

kilometres within the three weeks.

The gold medal was awarded to ‘Westwood

Warriors’ (Westwood Liquid Technologies). The

silver medal went to ‘Proteus Spartans’ (Proteus

Waterproofing) and bronze to ‘Enter the Dragon’

(Polyroof).

Other teams to take part were ‘Moy Magic’ (Moy),

the ‘Decothane Dragons’ (Sika Liquid Plastics)

and the ‘LRWA Legends’ (LRWA).

The team that raised the most money for Mates in

Mind was ‘Enter the Dragon’, which was awarded

10 bonus kilometres for donating £1,010. Proteus

Spartans achieved the bonus kilometres for the

most original photo, which was taken by Jamie

Holden (pictured) who completed his run outside

Buckingham Palace.

To date, the challenge has raised more than

£3,000 for Mates in Mind and it will be donated to

its Covid-19 Relief Fund, which will help support

crucial mental health programmes during the

crisis.

Sarah Spink, CEO of the LRWA, said: “The Virtual

Dragon Team Challenge was launched as an

alternative to our Dragon Boat Regatta 2020,

which sadly had to be cancelled because of the

pandemic. Rather than waiting until next year, we

Above top: The WestWood Warriors (WestWood Liquid

Technologies) won the Gold Medal. Above: Proteus Spartans

received the bonus kilometres for the most original photo,

which was taken by Jamie Holden who completed his run

outside Buckingham Palace.

wanted to find a way to bring people together

virtually and show our support for Mates in Mind

during the Covid-19 crisis.

“People have gone to a lot of effort to get involved

and many participants took the opportunity to

gain extra kilometres by taking selfies at original

locations. In addition to the photo outside

Buckingham Palace, we have seen pictures of LS

Lowry’s house, the Severn Bridge and Dunluce

Castle in northern Ireland to name just a few.

“We’d like to congratulate the Westwood Warriors

for a great performance and thank everyone who

took part and made this event such a success.

It’s proved a great way to get people talking,

sharing their photos, and raising a significant

amount of money for a very worthwhile cause.”

12 TC OCTOBER 2020

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Industry News

JR ROOFING LANCS UP

FOR WHICH? AWARD

Josh Morrison (right) with the JR Roofing Lancs team.

JR Roofing Lancs has been shortlisted as

one of four companies in the coveted

Which? Trusted Trader of the Year Awards.

Josh Morrison, MD of JR Roofing Lancs,

explained: “We are the only roofing business

to be shortlisted; it’s an amazing achievement

for our small family business and we are over

the moon to be recognised for our efforts.”

Josh explained that the panel of judges at

Which? were particularly interested in the

ways that the business had adapted during

the pandemic: “During the pandemic we

have continued to deliver our services for our

customers and have prioritised all emergency

work and followed all government guidance to

protect our customers and our team.”

Ensuring access to materials has also been

crucial to Josh and the team during the

pandemic. He explained: “We ensured that

we ordered all materials required for our jobs

in advance and when our suppliers closed we

were able to source our normal products from

different suppliers across the UK in order for

us to continue with all work booked in.”

The judges were also interested in Josh’s focus

on supporting and prioritising vulnerable

individuals with problems on their roofs, like

Mrs Rowberry, a lady who was conned by a

local builder and left with water pouring into

her extension. Josh and the team fully replaced

the roof with fibreglass GRP including

expansion joints and lead flashings, and also

rectified the issues she had with ventilation

and insulation.


GREEN HOMES GRANT IS UP AND RUNNING

TrustMark has said it is proud to work

costs and healthier and more comfortable living

alongside government to help deliver the conditions for the occupiers.

Green Homes Grant Voucher Scheme, which

“As well as benefiting the consumer, the Green

launched on Wednesday 30 September 2020.

Homes Grant will give a boost to the construction

Homeowners across England are now able to and energy sectors providing a perfect

apply for funding to make energy efficiency opportunity for businesses to develop their

improvements to their properties.

services, gain more customers, expand and grow.

We are proud to be working alongside the

All work carried out under the scheme must be

Department for Business, Energy and Industrial

completed by a TrustMark Registered Business,

Strategy and other industry partners to deliver

who will have demonstrated high technical

this important scheme.”

standards, quality assurances and a commitment

to customer service.

Mr Ayers said that improving the insulation of

properties is a vital component in the Whole

It is said the scheme could benefit more than

House Retrofit approach, which is imperative to

600,000 homeowners as well as create new jobs

reduce carbon emissions.

and opportunities for training, plus protect

existing jobs across the construction and energy He added: “We firmly believe that a property is

sectors.

looked at with the ‘fabric first’ so we can address

the overall efficiency of the building. Only through

Simon Ayers, CEO of TrustMark, which is the only

this whole house approach will a property owner

Government Endorsed Quality Scheme, said:

determine what measures are needed for

“Today marks a pivotal moment in not only our

optimising home energy efficiency, and ensure the

industry’s recovery but our journey to reducing

best value for money.”

carbon emissions and being net-zero by 2050.

Businesses wanting to complete work under the

“Homes – both new and existing – account for

scheme can do so by signing up to TrustMark. All

18% of CO ²

emissions and 15% of total

businesses need to be certified to install energy

greenhouse gas emissions. The time for

efficiency or low carbon heat measures to the

innovation and development is now. Through the

relevant standards. More information is available

Green Homes Grant Voucher Scheme, we can

at: www.trustmark.org.uk/

collectively play a vital role in the delivery of

lower carbon properties, with reduced energy More on the Green Homes Grant: page 54.

ASBESTOS DISPOSAL SERVICE LAUNCHED

Derbyshire-based recycling specialist, Ward, renovations of older properties or home DIY-ers

has launched a new asbestos drop off service dismantling a garage or lean-to unexpectedly find

for smaller loads or one-off jobs.

themselves with asbestos for disposal. Due to the

minimum quantity limits at many disposal sites,

The new service for the safe disposal of cementbonded

asbestos is aimed at residential and

they struggle to find somewhere to safely dispose of

it at a competitive rate.” Customers can book in and

commercial customers who need a quick and

drop off up to four bags or 150kgs of cementbonded

asbestos at Ward sites for an exclusive rate

reliable way to safely dispose of the hazardous

material. Donald Ward, Operations Director at Ward,

of £95+VAT, including all legal paperwork such as

said: “There are often cases where trades or

a consignment note. www.ward.com/asbestos

householders working on smaller projects in

14 TC OCTOBER 2020

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NFRC Roofing Focus

WHAT DO ROOFERS NEED TO TAKE

FROM THE WINTER ECONOMY PLAN?

James Talman, Chief Executive of NFRC, outlines the key points roofers should be aware of

following the Chancellor’s recent Winter Economy Plan announcement.

With the government’s focus now very

much on dealing with the rapid rise in

Covid-19 cases, there will not be a

Budget this year. The Chancellor did, however,

recently announce a ‘Winter Economy Plan’. Here

are the key areas that roofing contractors should

be aware of:

Deferred VAT payment can now be paid

over 11 months but no change on the

Reverse Charge

While it was a welcome relief when the

government initially allowed companies to defer

VAT payments this year due to the impact of

Covid-19, it did mean there was going to be a

crunch point in March 2021 where a large lump

sum of deferred VAT payments was due to be

paid at the same time as Reverse Charge VAT is

expected to kick-in.

The government has since seen sense and will

now allow the deferred VAT payments to be paid

over 11 instalments instead of in one lump sum.

This will be a great benefit to the cashflow of

many roofing firms, but the Treasury has not

budged on Reverse Charge VAT.

We are still calling on the government to

reconsider, especially at this time of uncertainty,

but roofing contractors should start preparing for

the changes coming next March now.

New Job Support Scheme to replace

furlough

The Job Retention Scheme and Self Employment

Support Scheme Grant (SEISS) were a great

benefit to the construction industry, and roofing

industry in particular, with just under half (48%)

of roofers having been furloughed at some point

during the pandemic.

However, the Chancellor has made

clear that furlough in its current

form will not continue and

instead a new ‘Job Support

Scheme’ will be introduced in

its place from 1st November.

This will aim to protect ‘viable’

jobs in businesses where there may

be lower demand over the winter months.

Under this scheme employers will continue to pay

workers for the hours they work, but for the hours

not worked, the government and the employer will

each pay a third of the employee’s equivalent

salary. The level of grant will be calculated based

on the employee’s usual salary, capped at

£697.92 a month.

For the self-employed, the government has

extended the Self Employment Income Support

Scheme Grant for those who are currently eligible

for this scheme but continue to face reduced

demand due to Covid-19. The initial grant will

cover 20% of three months’ worth of profits from

November to the end of January 2021, capped at

a total of £1,875.

The roofing industry is booming at the moment,

so hopefully this won’t have to be used by many

at present – but it will provide peace of mind to

those who may need it.

Flexibility on Covid loan repayments

Those roofing contractors that have taken out

‘Bounce Back or ‘CBILS’ loans will now have the

option to repay these loans over a period of up to

10 years. For ‘Bounce Back’ loans, interest-only

periods of up to six-months and payment

holidays will also be available to businesses.

The Chancellor also announced that both of these

Left: James Talman, NFRC Chief Executive.

loan schemes will remain open

for businesses to apply for

them until the end of

November.

We think the government should

look to extend these loans even

further to support businesses who may

experience cashflow difficulties.

Attention must now turn to economic

growth

There was much to welcome for roofing

contractors in the Chancellor’s speech – but

many will be asking whether that is all. While the

industry is busy now, many contractors are

concerned about workloads in the New Year and

now is the time for government to be thinking of

how to maintain demand.

What is needed is some radical thinking from the

Treasury on stimulating the economy in the longer

term. With rising unemployment, the government

needs to consider how to redeploy and reskill

unemployed workers into sectors that are growing

such as roofing. That’s not to mention policies on

how we are going to achieve our net-zero target

by 2050 – our sector is primed to help the

government reach this target, but policy

interventions will be needed.

We’ve got our own ideas we are developing, but if

you have any ideas you would like us to pass on

the Treasury do let me know on the details below:

Contact the NFRC

www.nfrc.co.uk

@TheNFRC

16 TC OCTOBER 2020

The Apex: Mental Health

TREATING MENTAL HEALTH IN THE

SAME WAY WE DO PHYSICAL HEALTH

Human connection is a powerful thing and recent events have reminded us all how

essential communication is for our mental health. However, studies reveal men are still

struggling to reach out when they need help. Below, Jackie Biswell, from Apex Roofing,

discusses how to protect tradesmen and encourage conversation in the workplace.

In August, a news story in Total Contractor

about the NFRC backing the Samaritans’ Real

People, Real Stories campaign caught my eye.

The campaign aims to encourage men battling

mental health issues to seek help.

The article focused on how men in our sector

struggle to speak up when they are suffering –

quoting the Samaritans figure that two in five

men aged 20-59 in the UK need, but refuse to

seek, support.

It struck me that the stiff upper lip of the past is

still very much alive and well in our present

culture, and that hand-in-hand with that

Victorian sensibility goes the

stigma associated with men

displaying any form of

weakness.

This is particularly

concerning when you

see the fallout of this

inability to talk – the

fact that 75% of

suicides are currently

among men, a trend that can

be traced back historically to the

beginning of the 20th century.

Why then, do the statistics show that women

suffer more frequently from depressive and

anxiety disorders than men?

Simple; this is predominantly because females

feature regularly in figures for consultations,

diagnoses and prescriptions for medication – in

other words, they feel able to speak up and seek

help when they are overwhelmed, while

their male counterparts suffer in

silence.

So, what does this mean for

our industry?

Well, as a predominantly male-dominated

sector it should come as no surprise that our

statistics match the national picture.

In fact, just as it is one of the leading causes of

death nationally, suicide is also one of the biggest

killers in construction and, according to the

Building Mental Health initiative, every working

day two construction workers take their

own lives.

It’s something that has

been raised as an issue

for many years now –

but as a sector we are

still to find a lasting

solution to change a

mindset.

And the global

pandemic has made

matters worse...

Samaritans conducted a poll of 2,000 men

and found that 42% said their mental health had

been negatively impacted by coronavirus.

However, the pandemic had a positive upshoot in

the fact that 40% said that talking to others had

helped with concerns or worries during lockdown.

Perhaps their ability to talk about their problems

was the fact that everyone was in the same boat

Left: Jackie Biswell, Apex Roofing.

“We have a duty

to provide

employees with a

support network

while treating mental

health in the same way

we do physical health”

– there was a common ground.

Or perhaps it was made easier because there

were alternative ways to communicate – Skype,

Zoom, on the phone – which made it easier for

those guys who struggle with the face-to-face

communication.

But whatever the reason, this is something we

need to take forward because, if the last six

months have taught us anything, it has been that

we all have better awareness of the value other

people bring to our lives.

Treating mental health as we do physical

health

It’s my opinion that as an employer, we have a

duty to provide employees with a support network

while treating mental health in the same way we

do physical health.

Many construction companies feel the same way.

I know of lots who are working with organisations

to help them address mental health in the

workplace and are seeking guidance on new

approaches and policies they can put in place to

18 TC OCTOBER 2020

foster change.

Some partner with organisations such as Building

Mental Health, a volunteer group which provides

a framework for the construction sector to provide

access to mental health support.

This helps construction businesses put in place

appropriate structures and systems to support

their staff with mental health issues.

I also recommend information resources and

training toolkits from Mates in Mind and the

Samaritans, which are essential as they can help

business owners like myself with guidance on

how to manage employee sickness.

On top of this, they help employers develop a

role in helping staff recognise where they may

need to address a problem and seek outside

support.

All of this goes a long way towards removing the

stigma that is still associated with dealing with

depression, stress and anxiety.

“It shows others like

them that instead of

being a sign of

weakness – speaking

out is a brave thing to

do” – Jackie Biswell on the Real

People, Real Stories campaign

But while toolbox talks and training are vital, they

are only part of the equation.

Sharing real stories

Communication is about conversation and this

is where the Real People, Real Stories

campaign by the Samaritans is going to be very

important.

It focuses on sharing real stories of men that

have struggled with mental health, have sought

help and come out the other side of it.

It shows others like them that instead of being a

sign of weakness – speaking out is a brave thing

to do.

And it finally casts aside those macho

stereotypes in preference for those who can

openly address mental health.

These have included footballers, politicians,

actors, royalty – and now those in the

construction sector too.

Man up? These are the men really “manning up”

simply because they are redefining what that

absurd saying actually means.

After all, depression, anxiety and any other

mental health condition are no more or less

difficult based on whether you got a Y

chromosome in your DNA.

Contact Apex Roofing

01502 537129

www.apexroofinguk.com

@ApexAnglia

For further inf formation

or a hire quotation call

OCTOBER 2020 TC 19

SIG Roofing

CLAY TILES: AN EYE-CATCHING

AND DURABLE SOLUTION

Alan Snowdon, Product Manager – Pitched Roofing at SIG UK Exteriors, takes a closer

look at the clay roof tile market, and explores their growing popularity with architects

and homeowners alike.

A long-lasting solution

First used in ancient Chinese and Middle

Eastern structures more than 10,000 years

ago, clay tiles are one of the universally

common elements of the built environment – with

historic examples still to be found on centuriesold

structures right around the world.

Here in the UK, clay tiles remain an evergreen

favourite with both homeowners and architects,

with the solution accounting for around a fifth of

all tile types sold each year nationwide.

But what is driving this popularity? Among the key

benefits of clay tiles is, of course, their durability.

Indeed, the fact that we can still see examples of

clay roof tiles that were first laid hundreds of

years ago neatly illustrates how long lasting they,

as a product and a reliable roof covering, can be.

There are a number of factors that should be

considered when assessing the lifespan of roof

tiles. Manufacturers may offer a product warranty

of 30 years, but it would be perfectly reasonable

to expect a correctly installed clay tiled roof to

last for as long as 60 years and beyond.

When choosing a clay tile roof, it is important to

ensure that the product chosen complies with the

harmonised British & European Standard BS EN

1304:2013 for Clay Roofing Tiles and Fittings. The

BS EN 1304:2013 standard measures the clay

tile product performance against several different

test criteria that includes amongst others;

Durability / Freeze Thaw (BS EN 539-2), Flexural

Strength (BS EN 538) and Water Impermeability

(BS EN 539-1).

When it comes to roof maintenance, there are a

number of steps homeowners or contractors can

take to keep the roof covering in as

good a condition as possible and

maximise its lifespan. These

include an annual inspection

of the roof, either from the

ground level or using a secure

ladder, to look for any broken,

cracked or slipped tiles, especially

after any access to the roof has been

required. If spotted, these tiles should be

attended to or replaced quickly, as failure to

remedy them could lead to more serious

complications or breach of the roof covering

further down the line.

Kerb appeal

Alongside their durability, clay tiles are also

popular with architects and homeowners because

of the significant aesthetic appeal they can afford

a property. Over the past few years we’ve seen a

real trend towards new homes with clay roofs,

both here in the UK and on mainland Europe, with

homeowners highlighting the eye-catching colour

variations and surface finish clay tiles deliver as

a significant driver for opting for them.

Indeed, that finish can be dependent on how the

tiles are manufactured. Tiles that are handfinished,

or even handmade, are completely

individual; offering a bespoke, textured aesthetic

and colour for a property. What’s more, some clay

tiled roofs have also been designed to improve

with age. As it’s a natural product, years out in

the elements can weather the tiles in a way that

is visually appealing from below; softening

colours and lending a sun-kissed aura to a

property.

From a developer’s perspective, clay is also a

fantastic material for ensuring

properties blend in with the wider

vernacular of the region.

Particularly in areas such as

Yorkshire, the Cotswolds, the

South West, the East Midlands

and some of the Home Counties

– each of which have many

properties of varying ages built in stone or

brick synonymous with the area – so the ability to

use a similar or contrasting clay roof tile can be a

primary selling point.

SIG’s solutions

With the popularity of clay roofs showing no signs

of abating, there are significant opportunities to

be had for contractors. That’s why, at SIG

Roofing, we’ve invested in a wide portfolio of clay

tile solutions to ensure roofers have access to the

right product for their next job.

From our own range of Signature Plain Tiles to an

extensive collection of different formats, textures

and colours manufactured by industry leading

clay tile producers, we’re committed to helping

roofers take advantage of opportunities in this

area.

With our nationwide network of branches, fleet of

dedicated delivery vehicles and comprehensive

regionally suited stock profiles, we have worked

hard to ensure we have all of the necessary

infrastructure in place for roofers looking to

improve their clay tile offering.

Contact SIG Roofing

0845 612 4304

www.sigroofing.co.uk

@SIGRoofing

20 TC OCTOBER 2020

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Perfectly Pitched

A GUIDE TO THE VALLEYS: PITCHED

ROOF VALLEY CONSTRUCTION

In his latest Consultant Case Study, Pitched Roofing Consultant John Mercer focuses on

tiled valleys and dispels some myths around mortar, plus offers some key guidance on

an area that, in his experience, presents “some of the most common causes of roof

leakage.”

In this next case study, I turn my attention to

tiled valleys. In my long experience, some of

the most common causes of roof leakage I

have come across on tiled roofs are related to

valleys. Many people think that the mortar is

there to make the junction watertight, which

could not be further from the truth. If you stop

and think about it, slate and many plain tile

valleys are constructed without mortar and in

Scotland, even clay and concrete single lap tiled

valleys are constructed without mortar.

“The contractor was

hoping that expanded

foam would keep the

water out, with just a

thin layer of mortar

pointing at the edges”

Above: An extreme example of a poorly constructed valley

that John recently encountered on site.

The photo below shows an extreme

example of a poorly constructed

valley I came across recently;

the lead has been laid flat

over the valley boards, with

no upstand or welt. The

contractor was hoping that

expanded foam would keep the

water out, with just a thin layer of

mortar pointing at the edges. The tile

battens have been extended over the lead to

within 10mm of the outer edge of the pointing. To

make matters worse, the lead has been cut by

what I presume was the disc cutter as tiles were

cut in-situ.

Lead-lined valleys

The main elements that keep the water out are

the upstands and welts at each side of the valley.

The most common open width for a traditional

valley is 125mm and this is generally satisfactory

for normal domestic roofs. There are exceptions,

such as low roof pitches and/or long rafter

lengths and further guidance for these is

available in the Lead Sheet Training Academy

(LSTA) manual.

A lead valley lining must be supported on timber

boards which can sit on top of the rafters if

counter battens are being used, or be fitted flush

John Mercer, Pitched Roofing Consultant.

with the tops of the rafters,

supported on timber noggins,

with a 4mm plywood lining

over the top.

25mm deep tile battens can be

used to construct the upstands as

these will finish flush with the tops of

the tile battens.

The valley boards should be at least 225mm wide

each side of the valley to allow for a 125mm wide

open valley, with timber upstands set 150mm

from the centre line of the valley and enough

width left to support the ends of the tile battens.

If the open valley needs to be wider than 125mm,

then the valley boards must be widened

accordingly.

Code 4 lead is suitable for most domestic

buildings, with Code 5 sometimes used on larger

buildings, laid in maximum lengths of 1.5 metres.

The width of the lead sheet will depend upon the

open width of the valley, plus 200mm on each

side to allow for the width of the mortar bedding,

25mm gap, the tilt fillet, a 25mm gap, and the

welt on the outside edge.

The lead should be dressed into position with the

correct amount of lap with the sheets above and

below it. The headlap will depend upon the true

pitch of the valley. At 30 degrees and steeper the

lap should be 150mm. At lower pitches, the lap

will increase to, for example, 220mm at 20

Continued on page 24

22 TC OCTOBER 2020

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Perfectly Pitched

Continued from page 22

degrees and 290mm at 15 degrees. The welt

should be formed away from the tilting fillet, not

on top or the side of the tilting fillet, as it would

be ineffective and may cause the tiles to kick up.

The general roofing underlay must finish over the

edges of the valley boards so that any water in

the batten cavity will drain onto the valley; the

underlay must not extend under the valley,

otherwise water will run underneath the valley

construction and may leak into the structure.

“The ends of the

battens should be

supported and nailed

on the edge of the

valley support boards”

The tiling battens should be cut in line with the

valley, approximately 10mm short of the lead welt

to allow any moisture on the underlay to drain

down the eaves uninterrupted. The 10mm gap also

helps to prevent the ends of the battens puncturing

the underlay where it rises onto the welt. The ends

of the battens should be supported and nailed on

the edge of the valley support boards.

Mortar must be laid onto an undercloak of slate

or fibre-cement board rather than be bedded

directly onto the lead, otherwise the mortar will

crack and dislodge as the lead expands and

contracts. There should be a clear gap of at least

25mm between the mortar bed and valley

upstand to prevent water tracking over the

upstand. The mortar must not block tile interlocks

and should be bedded and pointed up in one

operation or be pointed up as soon as possible

afterwards to ensure the bedding and pointing

mortar set as one piece.

GRP valley troughs

GRP valley troughs are a great alternative to lead

lined valleys and are suitable for most situations

where the open valley is 100 to 150mm wide.

They are flexible enough to cope with valleys

where the roof slopes are within 15 degrees of

each other. For greater differences, check with the

manufacturer of the valley trough.

Generally, GRP valley troughs should be

supported on valley boards as described above

for lead valleys, though some manufacturers say

their valleys are sufficiently robust to enable them

to be installed directly over the rafters. These

valleys have pre-formed upstands to prevent the

ingress of water and, for mortar bedding, some

have integral sand strips to ensure a good

adhesion between the mortar and valley lining.

Preformed GRP valleys with central

upstands

An increasingly common alternative to traditional

open valleys is preformed types with a central

upstand. The roof construction is the same as

that for open GRP valleys, but instead of having

an open channel like traditional valleys, these

valleys have a central upstand and the tiling is

finished close to the upstand on each side. These

valleys have channels at each side of the upstand

to direct water towards the gutter without

discharging over its edges.

Valleys with central upstands are beneficial where

two roof slopes of unequal pitches meet at a valley.

With open valleys, there is a risk that water from

the steeper roof slope will run across and run over

the edges of the valley on the lesser pitch slope. A

central upstand will prevent this from happening.

“All perimeter tiles,

including cut valley

tiles, should be twice

fixed”

Tile cutting

Tiles cut to the valley rake should be cut in a

designated safe area on the scaffold, not in

position in the valley. Where possible, tile-andhalf

tiles, or double tiles should be used – if

available – to ensure the cut pieces are as large

as possible. All perimeter tiles, including cut

valley tiles, should be twice fixed. Some tile

manufacturers provide special clips to secure the

valley cuts. If possible, nail the head and clip the

tail of each tile. For small cut pieces, secure

using a cut tile clip and a suitable adhesive.

In summary:

• Always ensure the valley lining is adequately

supported on valley boards which are set at the

correct position in relation to the rafters and tile

battens.

• Remember that it is the upstands and welts in

a lead valley that prevent water ingress – never

rely on the mortar for water tightness.

• Make sure that the open valley width is

appropriate for the size and pitch of roof.

“Mortar must be laid onto an undercloak of slate

or fibre-cement board rather than be bedded

directly onto the lead, otherwise the mortar will

crack and dislodge as the lead expands and

contracts”

• Twice fix all cut tiles adjacent to the valley –

use special cut tile clips and adhesive where

standard nailing and clipping cannot be used.

Contact John Mercer

www.johnmercerconsultant.co.uk

@Johnmercer3

24 TC OCTOBER 2020

Batten Checks

WILL YOU PAY THE PRICE FOR

INFERIOR BATTEN QUALITY?

Contractors should check they are getting the roofing battens they pay for, warns Stuart

Nicholson, Roof Systems Director for Marley.

The lockdown in the UK has led to a huge

increase in demand for treated timber for

external use in DIY and garden projects.

Together with domestic extensions and new build

housing demand, there is growing pressure on the

treated timber industry worldwide. This has led to

concerns about the quality of some timber

products coming into the market, particularly

roofing battens.

Whereas, in the past a substantially cheaper

price for roofing battens should have sounded

alarm bells about the quality, now pricing of these

inferior products has increased and it’s much

harder for contractors to distinguish a quality

batten by price alone.

There have also been concerns in the industry

that some battens on the market have been

dipped in preservative rather than pressure

treated, which is hard to detect from sight alone

and can give inadequate protection against rot

and insect attack.

This means that, if they aren’t buying from a

trusted manufacturer, contractors could

unintentionally be using inferior quality battens,

which has serious implications for their safety

and reputation.

Roofing battens are an important structural and

load bearing element. In addition, BS 5534

graded battens can be used as a secure foothold

during installation, so it would only take a single

batten failure to have serious consequences.

Using inadequately treated battens, or those with

a high moisture content can also lead to problems

such as premature rotting, batten shrinkage and

distortion.

Building control inspections are becoming

increasingly stringent when it comes

to checking the right battens have

been used. Non-compliant batten

use could lead to contractors

bearing the cost of stripping and

redoing the whole roof and could also

invalidate any warranties, such as NHBC.

The good news is that there are some quick and

simple steps contractors can take to make sure

they are getting the roofing battens they have

paid for:

1When you buy the battens, specifically ask

the merchants or stockist for BS 5534

compliant roofing battens.

2Buy from a trusted brand or manufacturer,

such as JB Red, as this will give you peace

of mind that battens have consistent

quality standards and guaranteed compliance

with BS 5534. Our roofing experts are also easily

contactable should you ever have any queries.

3Order your roofing battens early to ensure

stock is available when you need it.

4When the battens are delivered to site,

open the packaging and give the battens a

visual check yourself before use – see

advice below:

Visual batten checks:

Grading stamp Only battens that have been pre

or factory graded to BS 5534 can be called

roofing battens. Make sure there is an indelible

stamp on the batten saying BS 5534.

Third party accreditation Look for an

independent quality mark – our JB Red battens

have a BBA stamp to demonstrate this.

Stuart Nicholson, Roof Systems Director at

Marley.

Check for defects If you pick it

up from one end, the batten

should not snap, and it should also

be straight (within the agreed BS

5534 limit of 5mm distortion).

Timber The species of tree from which the timber

has come from should be stamped on the batten.

We only use slow grown imported redwood or

whitewood for our JB Red battens. Also look out

for an FSC or PEFC stamp to ensure sustainable

sourcing.

5Colour is not a guarantee of quality

preservative treatment. If you aren’t sure

about the battens you are using, ask the

manufacturer to see the treatment certificates.

JB Red battens are pressure treated using a

patented next generation technology preservative

called MicroPro, which has a unique red pigment

and carries a 60-year lifetime expectancy against

insect attack and wood rotting fungi (when

installed correctly in accordance with the

requirements of Usage Class 2).

6If you have any doubts at all about defects,

strength or quality, don’t risk using the

batten. Instead, contact the manufacturer

or supplier for advice.

For further help with checking your battens, you

can request your free battens pocket checklist by

emailing, info@marley.co.uk.

Contact Marley

01283 722588

www.marley.co.uk

@MarleyLtd

26 TC OCTOBER 2020

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Kemperol Liquid Waterproofing

Mythbusters

DEBUNKING THE MYTHS IN ROOFING

The team at Russell Roof Tiles aim to dispel some of the common myths in roofing in

order to create a seamless roofing experience from start to finish...

It doesn’t matter what you use or where

it’s from...

The mix and match approach to using various

products from different manufacturers in terms of

specifications for tiles, accessories and fittings

can frequently cause long-term problems.

Products are often designed by manufacturers to

work seamlessly together and contractors need to

ensure they are confident in using the right

products from the same manufacturer. This is

essential to ensure a long-lasting and reliable

roofing solution. You wouldn’t buy a car with parts

designed and produced from different

manufacturers, and the same principle should be

held for roofing. This is important to ensure a

long-lasting and reliable roofing solution. So,

while you can technically mix various roofing

products – it is not recommended.

You don’t need a guarantee…

In law, a guarantee is an

agreement given without any

extra charge to repair, replace

or refund goods which do not

meet the specifications set out

in the guarantee. Manufacturers’

guarantees provide the contractor

with the confidence and reassurance that

they are receiving a viable and sustainable

roofing solution from a credible company. For

example, Russell Roof Tiles provides a RussSpec

– a 15-year guarantee when using our whole roof

solutions, and where the specification has been

followed in detail in accordance with its advice,

the fixing specification and instruction. By using

guarantees, contractors can reduce the number

of roofing claims each year and be in a stronger

position to guarantee a viable roofing solution

where possible. Therefore, a guarantee is

essential for contractors.

Natural products are better

than man-made...

Despite numerous benefits,

there is often a

misconception that roof tiles

made from something other

than natural product are inferior.

There is often an argument that a

material seen as “naturally” occurring is better

than that of a manufactured product. One area

where this is specifically an issue is the concrete

versus clay debate; though both are

“manufactured” from natural materials

such as sand, water, clay and

limestone, concrete is still seen

as unnatural and a synthetic

roofing material. However,

man-made uses the latest

technology to create

the best product –

providing a quicker

yet cost effective solution

with better sustainable

credentials. Technological

advances and modern

materials can replicate the

aesthetics of “natural” materials,

specifically when using concrete tiles.

Concrete is not sustainable…

There is a common misconception that concrete

is not a sustainable product, compared to its

counterpart clay. But when looking at the whole

manufacturing process, we believe concrete is in

reality more sustainable. Concrete requires

considerably less energy usage during production

and is also cured at a much lower temperature

for only a short amount of time.This means that

an energy saving of up to 30 per cent of that

energy used in the production of clay tiles can be

achieved in comparison. Concrete

tiles also have a much lower

embodied carbon than those

of clay as well. A study

showed that during its entire

lifecycle, a concrete roof tile

only creates around 45 per cent

of the greenhouse gases triggered

by a clay roof tile during its lifetime.

Dry fix takes the skill out of roofing…

Dry fix is renowned for providing a more reliable

and effective roof fixing solution than

mortar bedding. The product can

be easily mechanically fixed

with the tiles to provide a

neat, robust roofing finish.

Products must be installed

using normal standards of

good workmanship and

should meet the requirements

for the British Standards for Slating

and Tiling (BS 5534 for fixing and BS 8000-Part 6

for workmanship). Yet, despite these products

being easier to install, contractors need to have a

great understanding and thorough knowledge of

the products they are using. Every region and roof

can be different, and the increasing adverse

weather means that skill is needed to ensure roof

tiles, fixtures and fittings remain in place, even

with easy to install roofing solutions. Dry fix

systems are a more reliable, dependable and

effective roof fixing solution which provide

excellent mechanical fixing and weathering

resistance, guaranteeing a long-life span.

Contact Russell Roof Tiles

01283 517070

www.russellrooftiles.com

@russellrooftile

28 TC OCTOBER 2020

Roofing, Cladding & Insulation Contractors

Pay £0 until 2021 for your

Checkatrade Membership *

Be the contractor customers turn to first with

Checkatrade, your business building partner.

Trust is everything for householders looking for contractors.

And a listing on Checkatrade, the UK’s most trusted business

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come to work in their home.

Win more work with FREE Affiliate

Membership until 2021. *

The business support you need right now.

Choose your membership package

Build your own profile page

Upload photographs of projects

Post and receive customer reviews

Google indexing and organic star rating

Appear in main search results by business name

Appear in main search results by trade type and location

Checkatrade Members Club benefits

Checkatrade branding for marketing and van livery

Specify skills offered and areas you work in

Affiliate Rolling

Build your own web page and profile

Appear in Google rankings

Promote your business with

independently verified reviews

Access Checkatrade Members Club benefits,

including discounts on fuel, insurance, tools,

workwear and other essentials

Use of Checkatrade Tick of Approval for

marketing materials and van signage

Register in as little as five minutes

Increase leads in your local area,

upgrade to Rolling Membership

at any time.

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Checkatrade is already working for more than 43,000 Trade

Experts just like you across the UK. You can join them and

try it for FREE with one of our fantastic new member offers.

UNTIL

2021

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until 2021 *

or FREE Rolling Membership for 2 months. **

Get in touch today to take advantage of the upturn in consumer interest.

Call 02394 317524 or visit https://join.checkatrade.com/contractormag

Get started today and choose FREE

Affiliate Membership until 2021 *

or 2 Months’ FREE Rolling Membership. **

Offer closes 31st October 2020.

*Checkatrade Affiliate Membership is free until the end of 2020. This includes no joining fee (RRP £25.00 plus VAT). We will contact you before the end of 2020 to review your membership options. Affiliate Membership is normally

charged at £25 plus VAT per month. You will still have to pass a minimum of 12 vetting checks. Once passed, you will have a dedicated web profile as well as use of marketing logos and access to benefits. Your web listing will not be

found in general areas searches on Checkatrade – but only if a consumer searches for your business name. You can be included in our Online Directory search results and receive customer calls, by upgrading to Full Membership.

Contract and terms apply. Offer subject to change. See Checkatrade.com/terms for full terms and information.

**You’ll pay no membership or joining fees during your first 2 months. This includes no joining fee (RRP £25.00 plus VAT). You will then pay from £49.99 to £139.99 plus VAT per month, depending on your region, trade and contract

type. Contract and terms apply. Offer subject to change. See Checkatrade.com/terms for full terms and information.

Career Moves & Progression

OFF THE TOOLS: ADAPT YOUR SKILLS

Some individuals in roofing choose to down their tools on site and work their way up to

management or supervisory roles. But what’s involved when it comes to upskilling to

these professional roles? Stuart Hicks, CEO of the Institute of Roofing (IOR), explains.

Figures released by The Construction

Industry Training Board (CITB) earlier this

year revealed the total Annual Recruitment

Requirement (ARR) for professional occupations

in the construction industry and non-manual

occupations will be more than 17,000 by 2023.

This, of course, might be affected by the Covid-19

pandemic, but within the last five years, the

growth of employment has been stronger among

the managerial and professional occupations and

weaker among the trades, and this trend is

expected to continue to 2023.

We also can’t ignore our ageing workforce within

construction, and many individuals are looking to

come off the tools and work their way up to

managerial positions.

Whatever your motives, it’s important to be fully

equipped with the training and knowledge

required to meet the requirement of these roles.

Staying ahead of the game and keeping your CV

updated with skills and training is also a

consideration as we enter a more uncertain

economic climate during the pandemic.

Where to start

In our current situation with Covid-19, and as the

UK grapples with Brexit negotiations, it can be

difficult to know who to turn to for advice and

training.

It is always advisable to speak to a sector body,

such as ourselves here at the Institute of Roofing

(IoR), for guidance on where to access further

training for individuals to progress in their careers.

Despite the Institute existing for the last four

decades, the primary focus for the IoR now is to

remind professionals what the Institute is, what it

can do for them, and aim high for the future.

Professional bodies like the IoR

encourage and support continual

learning, development and

training for those in supervisor,

management and ownership

roles within the roofing industry.

The Institute offers individual members

a clear, structured path towards management

careers in roofing by achieving industry recognised

professional qualifications. This is done by building

on existing knowledge, offering industry-specific

courses and CPD. This then provides professional

status as an Associate member, or higher-level

status of the IoR.

The IoR is diverse and fully inclusive with members

from every area of the roofing industry; from

distribution, manufacturing, training, contracting,

surveying and consultancy, as well as other

essential support services.

Whether you’re an apprentice, someone new to the

industry, still in training, or an established manager

or business owner, there are enormous benefits to

not just joining the IoR, but tapping into its

resources and contacts within the wider specifier

and roofing community.

Online tools

Anyone can access the qualification opportunities

offered by the Institute and carry their career

forward. A host of online courses costing £15 +VAT

each, for example, are available to anyone through

the Institute’s website; with one free course offered

per year as a member benefit. These courses cover

anything from manual handling, asbestos

awareness and working at height, to data

protection, conflict in the workplace and social

media for business training – providing essential

knowledge to anyone working in the roofing industry.

Left: Stuart Hicks, CEO of the IoR.

We also have an online benefits portal of

training and e-learning options which

can only be accessed by members, and

we encourage them to share the

information and knowledge using the

tools from the portal with colleagues, family

and friends. Many of these courses are free to

members or at a nominal cost.

Available through our website, a number of our

online learning courses have also now been

recognised as part of the NFRC’s RoofCERT

accreditation programme – take-up of these

courses has proved to be a real success for us this

year. Independently certified by leading bodies,

these six courses include Abrasive Wheels, Fire

Safety, Working at Height, Manual Handling, First

Aid, Asbestos Awareness and Fire Marshal.

Keep communicating

As our working life has changed dramatically in

recent months, we’re not seeing people face-toface

like we used to, so it’s important to maintain

regular communication with our colleagues,

contacts and outside organisations.

Coronavirus is not an excuse to move away from

best practice, and regular communication will be

paramount to help make positive changes and

seamless transitioning into our new ‘world’ of work.

As an Institute, we are working closely with other

training providers, federations and sector

associations to try and keep the conversation

going, having created the first-stage pathway to

professional qualifications to help and encourage

participants to achieve their highest level.

Contact The Institute of Roofing

www.instituteofroofing.org

30 TC OCTOBER 2020

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30

Y E A R

01430 432667 info@crest-bst.co.uk www.crest-bst.co.uk

ROOFING TILES

Material Focus: Slate

‘IT’S OLDER THAN THE DINOSAURS’,

BUT STILL VERY RELEVANT TODAY

Ahmed El-Helw, Founder and MD of natural slate roofing specialists SSQ, charts the

history of “one of the world’s oldest and most enduringly popular roofing materials.”

Hear the word ‘history’, and you probably

think of castles, battles and people in

crowns and funny wigs; you almost

definitely don’t think of bits of rock.

But bits of rock have a history too. In fact, they

have the longest and most interesting history of

all – admittedly, I’m biased, I’ve made slate and

other architectural stone my life for the last forty

years!

In our culture, we think something is ‘old’ after

about a hundred years. But this is what’s so

fascinating about raw materials like slate –

materials we hardly ever think about, but have

played a vital role in human civilisation.

They’re not hundreds of years old; they’re

hundreds of millions of years old. They’re older

than humanity itself – even older than the

dinosaurs.

When life was underwater

For slate, the story began around 500 million years

ago. Geologists call it the Paleozoic era, and it’s

safe to say the world looked very, very different.

Most life on Earth was underwater. Africa was at

the South Pole. It was during this period that the

first plants appeared, although it’s thought they

didn’t have leaves, and the first animals crawled

out of the sea and began living on the land.

Back then, what would eventually become slate

was just soft rock, like shale or mudstone –

nothing especially interesting to look at. But then,

it somehow got buried.

Over hundreds of millions of years deep in the

earth’s crust, it was subject to incredible heat

and pressure – which, gradually, made it change

at a fundamental level.

Those processes gave it the

characteristics that made it so

popular with human beings

when we came along several

hundred million years later –

its looks, its strength, and its

ability to retain both even when

it’s split extremely thin.

In one form or other, in fact, slate was in use from

the earliest periods of human history. Neolithic

hunters used it to tip wooden arrows and spears.

But it wasn’t for tens of thousands of years more

that we started to realise slate’s potential for less

grisly, more constructive purposes.

Forts, abbeys and castles

We know that the Romans quarried slate. They

invaded Britain for the first time in 43 AD, and five

years later they reached Wales for the first time.

The Roman fort of Segontium, their biggest and

most important in the region, had a slate roof.

In the centuries that followed, slate became a

common sight on the roofs of military buildings –

prized for its robustness.

Calder Abbey in Cumbria, founded in 1134, has a

slate roof. So did Conwy Castle, which King

Edward I had built between 1283 and 1289 at a

cost of £10,000 (over £7m in today’s money).

And in 1445, 130,000 slates were ordered from

the Isle of Bute to repair Dunbarton Castle.

But for hundreds of years, it was only the

wealthiest institutions – the monarchy and the

church – that could afford slate.

Left: Barrow Hill Primary School project.

At the time, quarrying and

transporting it was a

dangerous, arduous process –

it was laboriously dug out of

the ground by men with hand

tools, then moved by horse and

wagon.

The first recorded use of a slate roof on a

private house wasn’t until around 1300 in North

Wales – but in the centuries that followed, it went

on to become one of the most popular roofing

materials in the world.

Still the most cost-effective

In the modern era, its use declined for a time, as

builders opted for newer, synthetic alternatives.

But today, the qualities that have seen it used for

thousands of years are driving a significant

comeback.

Today, a quality, expertly-installed slate roof can

last as long as a century – two to three times as

long as many alternative roofing materials. While

it’s more expensive than some of the synthetic

options, when you account for longevity, it’s by

far the most cost-effective.

And the looks are incomparable in my opinion. In

the centuries to come, different technologies will

appear, and different materials will rise and fall –

but it’s for that reason more than any other that

there will still always be demand for natural slate

roofs.

Contact SSQ

020 8961 7725

www.ssqgroup.com

32 TC OCTOBER 2020

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Overcoming Challenges

THE TOOLS TO KEEP THINGS MOVING

Our working environment on and off site has changed dramatically since the Covid-19

pandemic began. Below, Victoria Ramwell, of cold-applied liquid waterproofing

manufacturer Kemper System, explains some strategies to help us adapt.

Problem solving on site at the best of times

can be tricky. If a contractor needs advice

on a particular issue about the roof at any

stage of the project, technical teams from the

roofing manufacturer should be on-hand to help

trouble-shoot. This can be prior, during or post

installation of the roofing system.

Yet, when faced with a global pandemic we’re

presented with a multitude of challenges. Access

is restricted, social distancing rules and travel

restrictions can all prohibit technical personnel

attending site. This can potentially delay the

project or in a worst-case scenario, set up a

roofing system to fail if problems have not been

addressed and resolved.

When budgets are tighter than ever and time on

site is restricted, many manufacturers and

contractors have had to adapt during the

pandemic to ensure projects finish on time and

without any issues.

Off site, we have all turned to technology to

communicate using virtual conference calls

rather than face-to-face meetings. And this is

something that has been seen to work on site,

too.

Digital problem solving

New digital tools have been rolled out across the

sector to help boost productivity for contractors

and specifiers across the UK.

This technology can use real-time video to make

problem solving on a roof quicker and more

efficient. For example, the sort of software which

Kemper System has utilised is a digital tool called

tele-LOOK, which enables survey and

specification reports to be generated within

hours, instead of days.

The software allows members of the technical

team access to the camera on a

customer’s smartphone, providing a

real-time view of the area to be

refurbished. Both parties can

continue to speak to each other, so

immediate waterproofing advice and

support can be given and if required,

photos and notes can also be generated to assist

with reporting.

One of the biggest benefits of this kind of

technology is the time saving. If a contractor is on

a roof and needs some advice about a particular

issue, such as waterproofing a complex detail,

you can offer that instantly ensuring no delays to

the project.

Similarly, if a specifier needs a report for a project

that is located hundreds of miles away from the

manufacturer’s office, they no longer have to wait

for someone to travel there – if travel is even

possible during local and national restrictions.

Manufacturers can simply launch the tool, review

the site, and create a report on the same day they

request help. No matter where contractors are

located, a solution like this can save a significant

amount of time, boosting efficiencies and

ensuring seamless projects, surveys and

specifications.

Project spotlight

During the national lockdown in March when

many construction sites still remained

operational, the Merton Hotel in Jersey undertook

some essential maintenance work whilst the hotel

was closed to many guests. This included the

refurbishment of the outdoor balconies from hotel

rooms using Kemper System’s AC Speed PMMA

solution.

Because of travel restrictions across the UK,

Left: Victoria Ramwell, Kemper System.

members of the technical team at

Kemper System were unable to go

to Jersey to inspect the works as

the project got underway. Instead,

the team used the tele-LOOK technology

to regularly speak with the contractors on site

through every stage of the process.

This included pre-installation support right

through to signing-off the finished balcony areas.

The technical team at Kemper System were able

to see the product being installed as it happened,

and advise contractors every step of the way.

The advantage of such technology meant any

potential issues were dealt with immediately, and

the end client had a sound waterproofing system

installed without any delays to the project.

Tele-LOOK has already been used successfully by

Kemper System in Germany, and has now been

rolled out nationally in the UK.

Plan for change

As we enter some uncertain times for our sector,

it’s more important than ever to reassess working

practices and adapt accordingly as our way of life

continues to change throughout the pandemic.

Safer and more efficient ways of working during

these trying times will be at the forefront of any

business, and it’s important to keep abreast of

the customer’s needs to ensure mistakes aren’t

being made and projects can complete on time, to

specification and within budget.

Contact Kemper System

01925 445532

www.kempersystem.co.uk

@KemperSystemUK

36 TC OCTOBER 2020

X-TWO from

VELUX Commercial Xtralite

X-TWO sets a new standard in PVCu rooflights, featuring innovative interlocking and interchangeable kerbs that can be raised

or lowered to any depth. The unique construction used on X-TWO offers a flexible solution with a host of Xtra benefits:

Triple glazed with U d

value of 1.6 W/M2.K

Reduced risk of cold bridging & condensation

Unique mounting systems for easier attachment and installation

Up to 40% more light transmission with vertical kerb option

Increased ventilation levels

Easy opening and ventilation control

Available in either polycarbonate or glass

Four glazing colour options available

Enhanced security options

20 year insurance backed guarantee

X-TWO is offered as a bespoke construction product with a wide range of shapes and sizes

available in manual or electrically operated systems.

Get in touch for a fully comprehensive

site survey & technical advice.

Call us on 01670 354 157 or visit xtralite.co.uk

EPDM Solutions

INVESTING AND INSTALLING

WITH LONGEVITY IN MIND

Longevity is one of the significant benefits of choosing EPDM rubber roofing over market

alternatives according to Adrian Buttress, Managing Director of Permaroof, one of the

largest importers and distributors of Firestone RubberCover EPDM, and below he

discusses what makes rubber roofing so long-lasting.

EPDM roofing membranes have been

developed as long-term solutions due to

the optimal balancing of key ingredients to

give extended durability according to Permaroof.

The distributor says when a complete system is

used, contractors can expect the material to

withstand the elements for more than 50 years.

Permaroof points to proof of this already in action

with Firestone’s first EPDM installation at Albo

Manufacturing in Wisconsin marking its 40th year

with no reported issues – despite tornadoes,

snow, and extreme sun hitting the area

throughout the decades.

So, why is EPDM so long-lasting?

The distributor says the single-ply roofing system

has become increasingly popular in recent years

– possibly because many EPDM flat roofs are still

going strong decades after they were installed.

Adrian, Buttress, MD at Permaroof, explained:

“When the Occupational Safety and Health Act

and the Passage of Clean Air Amendment Act

became law in the 1970s and negatively impacted

asphalt, the commonly used flat roofing material

at the time, EPDM became the obvious choice to

fulfil the newly-formed gap in the market.

“Alternative flat roofing options often degrade due

to the loss of mechanical properties caused by

exposure to UV. Temperature fluctuations, even

those that are normal for the changing UK seasons,

cause stress in materials with low degrees of

flexibility and elasticity. This results in cracks and

tearing – particularly at any joints or details.

“EPDM rubber roofs, when applied correctly to

adequately prepared roof decks,

far outperform other types of

roofing. As well as the

excellent waterproofing,

EPDM is resistant to UV

radiation as well as ozone and

temperature fluctuations, which

would otherwise age the product

significantly. EPDM membranes have elasticity

of over 300% to accommodate building

movement and extremes in temperature.

Furthermore, flexibility and elasticity are retained

down to temperatures as low as -45ºC.

“EPDM membranes can be manufactured in very

large sizes up to 15.25m x 30.5m, meaning many

small flat roofs can be installed with a single

sheet of membrane – reducing or removing the

need for seams and further improving the

productivity and longevity of the roof

waterproofing installation.

“Furthermore, RubberCover roofs can also be

adapted during their long service life if a new

feature – such as a rooflight or vent pipe – is

required, ensuring homeowners can always keep

on top of trends.”

Creating a resilient roof

Adrian points out, however, as with any roofing

material, the proper application of the membrane

is as important to the performance of the roofing

system as the material itself.

He explained: “Rubber roofs can be applied using

cold, water-based adhesives. This results in a

safe, faster application method, and a lightweight

and flexible result. Adhered roof systems also

Left: Adrian Buttress, MD at Permaroof.

have a high wind uplift

performance rating, which

makes them a good choice to

further enhance the resilience of

a structure.

“The best way to ensure the longevity

of the roof’s performance – and avoid

problems and failures down the line – is to use a

full waterproofing system of compatible

products, which consists of a membrane,

adhesive, tape and primer from the same brand. It

also helps to aid traceability, which is increasingly

important on commercial projects, and helps to

keep a high standard of roofing in the UK.”

Adrian concluded: “The benefits speak for

themselves, but it’s important to remember that

this level of longevity is only assured by fully

trained contractors. While EPDM installation is

simple, even the most qualified and experienced

roofers should keep on top of continuing

professional development (CPD) to enhance their

skills in an ever-changing sector and, in turn,

help to raise industry standards.

“The natural characteristics of EPDM, and how it

is supplied and applied are the key reasons for its

outstanding longevity. With this in mind, it’s no

surprise that installations are still as effective

today, no matter the tornadoes, snow, or sun they

have been exposed to.”

Contact Permaroof / Firestone

www.permaroof.co.uk

www.firestonebpe.co.uk/en

@PermaroofUK / @FirestonebpUK

38 TC OCTOBER 2020

Reliability

from the forest

to the roof

• Fully graded roof batten

• Consistent quality

• 60 Year lifetime warranty

• ‘Full to size’ in all dimensions

• Certified and compliant to

British Standards

Choose PREMIUM GOLD from SR Timber

TEL: 01623 446 800 www.sr-timber.co.uk

Installation Advice

TOP TIPS & ADVICE FOR INSTALLING

STORMKING’S PRODUCTS

Stormking has very recently entered into the flat roofing market, launching two new highperformance

flat roofing systems which excel in terms of cost and ease of installation. The

brand is also well-known for its GRP dormer windows and chimneys, which are made in

Britain and produced offsite in factory-controlled conditions. To give a glimpse into how the

products are installed, Paul Oldham, Technical Manager from Stormking, lists the top tips

that roofing contractors should consider when using these products.

Look up, look out: GRP chimneys and

dormers

Although traditional methods of construction

still retain their value, at the moment the

industry is facing a huge shortage of

skilled workers to meet the high standards it sets.

This is compounded by statistics that highlight

the UK construction workforce is too small to

meet the government’s housebuilding targets.

Traditional processes alone cannot be responsible

for meeting the government’s aim, meaning

alternative measures must be adopted to keep

the industry on the right track.

The use of GRP prefabricated components is

favoured when there is a shortage of skilled

workers and a complex design. In recent years

there has been a greater drive

towards more ambitious

designs, which has

subsequently

raised the

profile of

construction

methods

which can

meet this

requirement.

Therefore, where

there is complexity or

a lack of experienced

tradespeople in the locality, a

far better consistency of quality and

finish will be achieved by

selecting an offsite

manufactured GRP

solution. These

products are

also ideal on

roofing

projects

where mass

quantities of a

particular

solution are

needed.

Stormking has longspecialised

in the offsite

manufacture of prefabricated GRP chimneys

and dormers, but which considerations should

roofing contractors make when these products

have been specified?

The answer is that with an offsite manufactured

product, roofing contractors needn’t make many

considerations at all. This is one of the famed

benefits of prefabrication; it enables contractors

to save time, control risk and ensure the same

quality finish is achieved every time.

With a GRP chimney for instance, a roofing

contractor doesn’t need to calculate where the

trusses will sit or factor in additional wind

loading, as they would do traditionally. Using

Stormking’s special lifting eye the product is

crane-lifted to the roof, where it sits straight onto

40 TC OCTOBER 2020

the structure to be fixed in place – it is as simple

and efficient as that! Contractors can tile up to

the chimney as they ordinarily would. The product

is also pre-leaded at the bottom to keep it secure

in inclement weather conditions.

The same ease of installation is achieved with

Stormking’s GRP dormers. With this solution,

contractors can install up to 30 GRP dormers in a

single day, which would equate to three-man

months if a more traditional course was taken.

One consideration that a contractor would have to

make with GRP chimneys and dormers is that if a

design is particularly complex, bespoke as

opposed to a standard solution might have to be

the case.

Top tips for GRP and PU flat roofing

solutions

Stormking has recently launched two new

products within a flat roofing range to give

contractors the best of both worlds. Roofing

contractors are continually working to tight

timeframes and equally unforgiving margins.

In terms of the key areas for consideration when

using Stormking’s BBA-approved StormDeck-GRP

and StormDeck-PU, it is dependent on the

specific requirements of the contractor.

StormDeck-GRP is a built-up system designed to

provide a durable, watertight seal on roofs,

walkways and balconies. It comprises a GRP

chopped strand mat, fire-retardant polyester

“The answer is that

with an offsite

manufactured product,

roofing contractors

needn’t make many

considerations at all”

resin, curing catalyst and polymer topcoat.

StormDeck-PU is a one coat system that cures

incredibly quickly and can be applied straight to

the prepared deck. For this reason, on projects

where time is of the essence PU might be

preferable. PU dries far more quickly than GRP in

damper weather conditions where rain is

imminent. GRP on the other hand, needs zero

moisture in the air to settle efficiently.

However, where aesthetic and cost-effectiveness

are higher on the agenda, GRP is perhaps more

suitable. GRP can be produced in a range of

colours and finishes, which makes it perfect for

projects that require a visually attractive roof

design.

It goes without saying however, that both GRP

and PU function better in terms of watertightness

when compared to traditional materials such as

lead. These solutions are far more robust and

durable than traditional products. Lead, or felting,

is also expensive and typically requires an

approved, certified fitter to put into place. GRP

and PU can be installed after completing a oneday

course, as opposed to a 12-month

qualification. Where there is a growing skills

shortage in the roofing sector, this factor is

definitely one to think on.

For contractors using or installing Stormking’s

prefabricated products, few considerations need

to be made. The benefit of offsite manufacturing

is that the products are easy-to-install and

ensure the same level of quality can be achieved.

If, however, contractors are working with

Stormking’s PU and GRP flat roofing products, it

is important to remember that each solution has

been created to reflect contractors’ differing

needs. Although contractors will have contrasting

considerations, rest-assured that Stormking has

the solutions and expertise to deliver what is

needed.

Contact Stormking

01827 210777

www.stormking-roofing.co.uk

@StormkingGRP

OCTOBER 2020 TC 41

Opinion: Product Selection

FIT FOR PURPOSE PRODUCTS

As the government predicts up to £37billion spend on new UK infrastructure over the

coming year, conformity to standards becomes an increasingly important focus when

specifying products for these long-term projects. Mark Fyfe, Infrastructure Director at SIG,

urges the industry to embrace the opportunity of this investment, but to also consider the

implications in offering substandard equivalents on product selections.

The UK construction market is made up of a

complex chain of different skillsets, all with

an important part to play in the build

process and many of which contribute at varying

levels to the choice of building products used.

Couple that with a huge infrastructure project,

like HS2 or Hinkley Point, that can involve many

different construction businesses with literally

thousands of products to specify, and it’s little

wonder that at times the process of product

selection can fail.

“If the product can then

be swapped by an

installer further down

the process to simply

save cost and it does

not carry IDENTICAL

proven performance

criteria, it could

ultimately result in

product failure”

If there’s one recent milestone that’s

demonstrated the importance of certification and

quality standards in construction products, it’s

the Grenfell disaster and subsequent Hackitt

Review. Whilst the focus of the report was on

products specific to the Grenfell Tower, it did

highlight weaknesses in the existing construction

specification system. Comments in the Review

included negative references to Product Testing,

Labelling, Change Control and Compliance to

Building Safety Requirements.

The ripple effect of the disaster will

be felt for many years to come

across the industry and rightly

so, there are a number of

lessons to be learnt from it.

One key lesson that we can

reflect on in our industry is to

ensure that the products supplied

and purchased are from quality

assured sources and suitable for purpose. We

should all approach cheaper alternatives with

caution.

Value engineering has its place

This isn’t to say that “value engineering” isn’t

relevant. It encourages healthy competition and

certainly has its place as overall budgets have to

be adhered to. However, with products critical to

a structure’s performance, in large civil

engineering projects in particular, safety has to

come first and the product specification should

be the definitive guide with any alternative ‘or

equivalent’ choice being just that, with proven

Access to support

SIG has a specialist infrastructure team that can

offer impartial advice on products for large

infrastructure projects. In preparation for this

market growth they have already created an

‘Infrastructure Alliance’ with some of their

product manufacturers. Working together they

offer system solutions for a project, that comply

to the latest raft of legislative requirements and

manage the process from early stages, often

siting specialists on site to better service a

project.

Left: Mark Fyfe, Infrastructure Director at SIG.

identical performance

credentials.

A company producing or

supplying quality construction

products build into their model

the cost of testing and certification.

They ensure that relevant products

comply to the correct specification and are tested

to a standard which offers the client a

reassurance and guarantee that the products

they purchase are the best available for the job.

In large infrastructure projects this product

specification and testing can be a process that

takes many years to complete, with proof of

performance being logged at each stage in the life

of the product. A simple concrete screw, for

example, can have testing that involves audits of

the manufacturer, the foundry where the steel is

rolled and even where the ore is mined to prove

the supply chain and ensure ethical sourcing and

performance guarantees. All this is an upfront

cost to the manufacturer which ensures that the

product is specified with confidence that it is fit

for purchase for many decades to come. If the

product can then be swapped by an installer

further down the process to simply save cost and

it does not carry IDENTICAL proven performance

criteria, it could ultimately result in product

failure and the cost of remedial work far

exceeding any savings that were initially made.

Sign up to the SIG Portal

www.sigconnected.co.uk

42 TC OCTOBER 2020

Promoting

systems-based

solutions

www.mcrma.co.uk

For metal-based roofing and

cladding systems, products and services.

Representing, Promoting

and Supporting

• Systems manufacturers

• Component manufacturers

• Systems installers

• Independent roofing and cladding inspectors

• Industry support services providers

Visit www.mcrma.co.uk

to find out more about the MCRMA and its members.

The ‘MCRMA The Building Envelope Authority’ is a registered Collective Trademark of the Metal Cladding and Roofing Manufacturers Association Limited.

Bespoke Rooflights

NEW BESPOKE ROOFLIGHTS TURN

CUSTOMER’S DISTRESS TO DELIGHT

NDC’s bespoke Stardome polycarbonate rooflights have brought relief for the new owner of

a house where the existing rooflights were leaking and causing dismay...

The project

Having recently purchased a three-bedroom, threestorey

terraced house, Laura of Wokingham was

dismayed when she discovered the property’s two

existing rooflights leaked during the first downpour.

With both rooflights being well beyond repair and no

desire to make structural changes to the existing

roof openings, replacement units of the same size

were sought.

The requirements

The property’s two existing rooflights were located

on a flat roof, with one sitting above the bathroom

and the other over the second/third-floor stairwell.

With the rooflight replacements

being an unplanned purchase,

alternative rooflights of the

same size were requested

to avoid more costly

structural changes.

However, upon closer

inspection it became clear that

the existing rooflights were not

stock sizes and bespoke units would be

required.

The solution

Laura contacted the National Domelight Company

(NDC) and discussed the property’s requirements

with sales executive Jessica Smith. With a wealth of

experience in delivering both standard size and

bespoke solutions for residential and commercial

properties, NDC was able to provide advice and

recommendations over the phone. Due to the size

and position of the rooflights in the centre of the flat

roof of the three-storey home, Jessica

recommended bespoke polycarbonate rooflights as

a cost-effective replacement solution.

The Stardome polycarbonate rooflight with thermally

enhanced PVC adaptor kerb and manual hinged

ventilation was selected, which is designed to give

outstanding natural light transmission and be

thermally efficient.

To maximise natural daylight into the property, the

rooflight in the stairwell was specified with a clear

finish. Meanwhile, to ensure privacy for Laura and

her family, the rooflight over the bathroom was

specified with a diffused finish, which also ensures

an even dispersion of light throughout the room,

even on a dull day.

Both units were made to order and were delivered

Left: The existing rooflights leaked. Below:

the new bespoke rooflights from NDC.

to site when the roofing

contractor was ready to

install them on the same

day.

The conclusion

Despite not planning the

purchase, Laura is pleased with her

new bespoke rooflights, and in particular the

support and reassurance she received from Jessica

and NDC when making this distress purchase.

“When I moved into my property, rooflights weren’t

a consideration. Yet, when my roof leaked two

weeks later due to the existing rooflights, they

suddenly became my highest priority. Having a

bespoke product made can be quite terrifying,

especially when it wasn’t planned, but I soon felt

reassured thanks to the support of Jessica at NDC.

She was knowledgeable and completely calm about

something that was absolutely terrifying to me. I’m

delighted that I’m now an official owner of bespoke

rooflights and love the finished products.”

“We stock a vast range of products in a wealth of

sizes, but sometimes bespoke is the only option,”

explained Jessica Smith, Sales Executive at NDC. “It

can be daunting for a customer without prior

experience of such a project, but I’m glad that we

were able to produce the perfect product for Laura.

We worked with her roofing contractor to deliver on

a day that ensured the product was fitted straight

away, and gave Laura the final finished result that

she’s pleased with.”

Contact NDC

www.nationaldomes.com

@National_Domes

44 TC OCTOBER 2020

PITCHED ROOFING

PRODUCTS DESIGNED

FOR YOUR ROOFING

PROJECT

A RANGE OF QUALITY

PITCHED & FLAT ROOFING

PRODUCTS

TRIED AND TESTED

PRODUCTS

PRICES TO SUIT

ALL BUDGETS

AVAILABLE

NATIONWIDE

WARRANTIES

AVAILABLE

AVAILABLE AT YOUR LOCAL ROOFING STOCKIST

We’ve got you covered

www.fix-r.co.uk

Roofing Updates

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

NEW ADDITION FOR SOPREMA

Soprema UK has added to its wide-ranging

roofing systems with the launch of Alsan 601; a

wet-on-wet polyurethane cold-applied liquid

roofing system.

Alsan 601 builds on the versatility of the

company’s roofing range, which includes PMMA

liquid-applied systems, bituminous membranes,

hot melt and single ply. The new system will be

available through Soprema’s UK-wide distributor

network, enabling contractors to benefit from local

supply chains, while specifiers can benefit from

Soprema’s usual high levels of technical support

and advice. With a BBA-accredited service life of

at least 25 years, Alsan 601 will carry a 20-year

Soprema warranty and cures to form a durable,

seamless, waterproof roof covering that eliminates

any risk of water tracking below the surface. The

Alsan 601 system has been developed with ease,

speed and convenience of installation in mind,

with smaller 10 litre tins available for minor works,

along with standard 15 and 25 litre sizes. The

liquid membrane provides flexibility of cure rate to

suit installation conditions, with use of an

accelerator reducing cure time to 2-4 hours. The

accelerator also allows the system to be installed

at temperatures as low as 0ºC, making it ideal for

projects delivered during the winter months. Alsan

601’s viscosity can also be adjusted in response

to application requirements, with an additive

available within the range to enable installation on

vertical surfaces and upstands. Available in a

choice of two shades of

grey, the liquid

membrane is used in

combination with a glass

fibre reinforcement fleece,

which breaks down as a Above: Alsan 601 will be

supported with a full

homogenous component installation training and

of the system during approved contractor

programme, along with

installation for a smooth technical support and

roof finish. Alsan 601 is warranties.

ideal for contractors who

prefer a wet-on-wet liquid applied membrane, for

projects where the versatility of a controllable cure

time is important or projects that have to be

installed without interruption, even during periods

of cold weather. www.soprema.co.uk/en

WEATHERFAST: TRAINING & GAINING

To help installers meet the ever-growing demand for membrane coated steel as the

material of choice for gutter systems, WeatherFAST offers its Bespoke Gutter Liner Training

Course at its Great Barr, Birmingham, facility.

Orry White, MD of WeatherFAST, explained: “In today’s new build market, 90% of single

skin/composite gutter systems are specified as membrane coated steel, whether it be our

WeatherFAST coated steel or any of our competitors’ systems, without a doubt membrane coated

steels are the material of choice for gutter systems. With this in mind, we have our WeatherFOLD

gutter liner. Our system has been developed to fold with ease into any existing gutter and once

welded the system becomes seamless allowing water to flow freely towards outlets. Because of the

steel base the liner can be heavily trafficked and easily maintained by simply brushing out.”

Visit www.weatherfast.co.uk for further info or head over

to www.roof-tube.co.uk to view a WeatherFOLD video.

The team at WeatherFAST offer training courses for their WeatherFOLD, single skin or composite gutter

systems, plus also offer an approved contractor’s installation scheme. To become an approved

installer contact 0843 6580074 or sales@weatherfast.co.uk.

IT’S A DEAL: 5% OFF IN OCTOBER

Rainclear Systems is offering an extra 5% off all its Cast Aluminium rainwater ranges

throughout October 2020.

Rainclear is offering an additional 5% off its Cast

Alumimium range of rainwater systems.

Its traditional cast aluminium is manufactured in the UK and sits at the upper end of the price range

for metal guttering – more expensive than its extruded aluminium and galvanised steel ranges and

more or less equal, depending on the project, to the cost of pre-painted cast iron. It is strong and

long lasting and best suited to quality, traditional style projects. Those looking to gain an additional

5% off must input ‘CAOct20’ when checking out. Find out more at www.rainclear.co.uk

46 TC OCTOBER 2020

New Roofing products Updates

INVERG IS IN DEMAND

For further updates visit www.total-contractor.co.uk

“I’ll be using it on all plain tile projects going forward.” That’s the opinion of one of the first contractors to

try a ‘game changing’ solution for finishing the verge on plain tile roofs.

Xaver Roofing had just won the contract to roof a large private build when Hambleside Danelaw launched InVerg, the

unique interlocking dry verge system for plain tiles. As a committed Danelaw customer, MD Andrew Mohr proposed

the InVerg system to the client, who was happy to try it: “The client and I are really impressed”, explained Andrew. “It looks great! A lot of contractors are

trying to move away from mortar altogether but there’s been nothing on the market that looks good for a plain tile dry verge – until now. InVerg is so simple to

use, and it eliminates all the usual issues that come with conventional wet bedding, which are amplified when you’re trying to neaten the edges of a plain tile

roof where there is so little space. I will use InVerg wherever possible going forward.”

Above: InVerg has a 15 year service life

guarantee, and is available in a range of colours.

InVerg provides a fully BS8612 compliant, cost-effective and aesthetically pleasing solution to finishing the verge and eliminating the risk of water ingress at the

roof edge and minimising any staining of the gable end. Suitable to use for most machine-made single and double cambered plain tiles, InVerg is quick and easy

to mechanically fix in place. Its unique design enables two courses to be finished at once, without the need for any tile undercloak, and is suitable for batten

gauges from 88mm to 104mm, while removing the need for time-consuming and weather dependent mortar application. www.hambleside-danelaw.co.uk

‘LOOK, QUALITY AND LONGEVITY’

CUPA PIZARRAS’ CUPA 18 natural slate has been used to achieve a high-quality finish on three

luxury, modern, new build properties in one of the most desirable areas of Whitstable in Kent.

Island Wall: CUPA 18 is a lighter grey slate with a smooth

matt surface and has a superior, homogenous finish with

only minor variations allowed in the thickness and flatness

of the slate. The slate roofs were installed by Bates (Kent).

The new properties, built by Kapra Developments, are located in Island Wall, Whitstable. Kim Brown,

Director at Kapra Developments, explained: “For the properties on Island Wall, the quality of the

materials was very important and the coastal location meant that a durable product was essential. We

had used CUPA PIZARRAS’ products on previous projects and so we were confident that the CUPA 18

slate would provide the look, quality and longevity we wanted.” www.cupapizarras.com/uk

NEW DESIGN GUIDE FROM LRWA

The Liquid Roofing and Waterproofing Association (LRWA) has produced a new design guide

offering extensive technical information and advice to help specifiers correctly select liquid

products and systems.

Above: the LRWA’s Design Guide for Specifiers - Liquid

Applied Waterproofing Systems for Roof and Balconies.

Sarah Spink, CEO of the LRWA, explained: “The versality

of liquid applied systems means they are now a leading

solution for both new build and refurbishment projects.

With more specifiers turning to liquids, we wanted to

make sure that comprehensive technical guidance is

readily available. We would urge specifiers to take

advantage of this new Guide and also ensure they verify

the performance of a liquid waterproofing product or

system via third party certifications.”

Drawing on more than 40 years’ experience and extensive research, the LRWA’s Design Guide for

Specifiers – Liquid Applied Waterproofing Systems for Roof and Balconies – has been produced by

the association’s technical committee, comprising representatives from across its membership,

including manufacturers, contractors and associate members.

The Design Guide covers the waterproofing of all types of flat roof, balcony and walkway, including

associated fittings and construction using systems manufactured by LRWA members. Best practice

advice is provided on a wide range of specification factors such as the performance criteria for liquid

systems, design considerations, and the materials that may be used as part of a roof build-up. The

Guide also references all relevant changes to UK Building regulations following the Grenfell tragedy,

as well as updates to British Standards relating directly to the flat roofing industry. One area covered

extensively within the Guide is in relation to fire safety requirements and performance. In addition,

there is a section offering advice on what specifiers must consider before choosing a liquid applied

solution as an overlay to an existing roof, including the thermal performance of an existing structure.

www.lrwa.org.uk

48 TC OCTOBER 2020

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OCTOBER 2020 TC 49

Galvanic Corrosion

MIXING METALS: AVOID THE ISSUES

Simon Grisewood, Fabrications Manager at Proteus Facades, explains how to avoid bimetallic

corrosion on metal building envelopes.

Bi-metallic or galvanic corrosion occurs

when two dissimilar metals come into

close proximity in the presence of

moisture and air. This causes the more anodic of

the two metals to corrode, whilst the other metal

remains unaffected. An example of bimetallic

corrosion occurred on the Statue of Liberty and

an investigation found that extensive areas of

rust had formed on the iron support frames

where they touched the copper. In this case the

iron supports had to be replaced with 316 grade

stainless steel.

Galvanic corrosion has a bearing on the longevity

of all building elements and in this case

corrective action was taken before it caused

further damage. So, whilst other factors such as

UV exposure, mechanical damage from windblown

debris and freeze thaw action all take their

toll on a building, bi-metallic corrosion is a

serious issue and needs to be taken into

consideration at design stage.

Fortunately, using two or more different metals on

a building’s external envelope does not

necessarily mean corrosion will occur if a few

basic rules are followed. It’s also worth bearing

in mind that the two metals don’t need to be in

contact for galvanic corrosion to take place. For

example, when a more ‘noble’ metal such as a

copper roof corrodes slightly and dissolves in

rainwater and subsequently flows over a less

noble metal such as zinc cladding, it will result in

accelerated corrosion of the latter. This can also

occur where the window surrounds or reveals are

a different metal to the façade cladding as well

as the steel support framework.

Generally, the level of bimetallic corrosion in a

coastal location will be greater because salt in

the air speeds up the galvanic reaction. We

Proteus devised some clever detailing between the zinc roof and TECU Brass cladding panels at Wells Malting in Wells-next-the-Sea.

devised some clever detailing between the zinc

roof and TECU Brass cladding panels at Wells

Malting in Wells-next-the-Sea to create a

seamless transition between the two elements,

removing bimetallic corrosion challenges and

providing a modern twist to a historic building.

However, galvanic corrosion is a challenge on all

buildings and should be a priority when specifying

metallic cladding and roofing systems.

Following the Galvanic Series

It is possible to rank

metals, including those

used for building elements

such as cladding and

roofing on the Galvanic

Series. This lists those that

are least or most

susceptible to corrosive

attack. The further apart

two metals are on the

Galvanic Series, the

greater the potential

difference, and the faster

the corrosion will occur on the less noble

material.

When specifying a metal cladding system, it is

always worth checking where other materials

selected for the roof, rainwater or other façade

elements are positioned on the Galvanic Series.

We routinely check this on all the projects we

work on to ensure that there aren’t issues further

down the line. In most cases, consideration has

been given to this aspect, although sometimes it

can be overlooked.

Early design iterations of

Square Chapel in Halifax

was another example of

where problems with

galvanic corrosion could

have occurred. The original

design concept had a

copper wall above a zinc

roof, running off to a

copper wall. Rainwater

run-off from the copper

(noble) onto the zinc (anodic

50 TC OCTOBER 2020

or less noble) would have resulted in rapid

galvanic corrosion of the latter, and as a result

the roof had to be altered in the design phase to

negate the bi-metallic corrosion issues that would

have been created.

Working with the design team during the

specification stage we were able to address the

issue. This involved changing the roofing material

to keep the external elevation materials as that

specified by the architects, with our Proteus HR

rainscreen system and a TECU Classic external

veneer.

Interestingly, these two metals – zinc and copper

– on their own are some of the most durable and

long-lasting roofing and cladding materials

around. But put them together, or any other

metals not closely positioned on the Galvanic

Series, and rapid corrosion will be the result.

There are various ways of avoiding galvanic

corrosion and the main ones are:

• Selecting metals with similar corrosion

properties.

• Separating the two materials with an inert

spacer.

• Breaking the electrical connection by insulating

the two metals from each other.

• Applying coatings to one or both materials.

• Adding corrosion inhibitor.

It’s worth remembering that bimetallic corrosion is

not just limited to roofing and façade elements.

Anywhere in a building where two or more metallic

elements are used in close proximity – they do not

need to be touching – can result in galvanic

corrosion. That includes air conditioning pipework,

hot and cold water systems and structural framing

connections, amongst others. With such a wide

variety of potential trouble spots, it is not possible

to avoid unfavourable dissimilar metal

combinations, and so the best solution is to work

with your supply partner to design it out.

Most designers understand that the presence of

different metals in any element of a building can

result in localised corrosion. A supplier that goes

to them with a solution to avoid it is always going

to create a favourable impression with an

architect or main contractor. All metals react with

their environment, although some are more

reactive than others. Knowing this and factoring it

in at design stage can avoid issues after the

project is handed over.

Contact Proteus Facades

0151 545 5075

www.proteusfacades.com

Solvent-free and

non-flammable, Seal It Liqui d Membrane is designed

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self-levelling, gap-bridging, non-shrinkin g and non-cracking.

Yo ou can even apply it when it’s wet!

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OCTOBER 2020 TC 51

Cladding Updates

A RIBA-approved CPD on the benefits of

natural slate for roofing, cladding, walling,

flooring, paving and aggregates is now also

available online with Welsh Slate, part of the

Breedon group.

The “Welsh Slate as a building material”

presentation is now available for presentation by

members of the leading manufacturer’s

experienced technical sales team via Microsoft

Teams to help architects and specifiers meet

their CPD requirements during the Covid

pandemic.


NATURAL SLATE BENEFITS ONLINE

It profiles the company, explains what slate is

and what its advantages and applications are as

a building material, and in particular explains the

changes to BS 5534, the roofing code of practice.

The CPD also gives advice on the specification

and installation of a range of applications,

including roofing, cladding, flooring, paving,

walling and aggregates, and can be focused on

particular product ranges to suit the audience.

Above: The “Welsh Slate as a building materia”l RIBA-approved CPD is now available online.

As well as being naturally aesthetic, which is presentation as slate has low levels of embedded

revealed in case studies, the CPD explains how carbon when compared to manufactured

high quality natural slate is also highly practical, landscaping and building products.

exceptionally durable, unaffected by extremes of

The “Welsh Slate as a building material” CPD is

temperature and resistant to acids, alkalis and

available to be presented remotely by Welsh

other chemicals. It retains its colour, even in UV

Slate, or as before in person in compliance with

light, and is impermeable to water.

Covid 19 guidelines, by calling 01248 600656 or

Sustainability is also addressed within the emailing enquiries@welshslate.com

COLOUR TREND SPARKS NEW ONDULINE RANGE

A trend towards more visually pleasing

warehousing and industrial and agricultural

buildings has seen Onduline Building

Products launch a colourful new cladding

and roofing solution.

ONDUPLAST COLOUR is an opaque fibreglass

sheet with a special polyester film that gives

the sheet a surface level of protection to ensure

high resistance to bad weather.

Available in red, grey and green, it is simple to

install and carries a 10 year weather proof

guarantee when correctly installed to

recommended Onduline installation guidelines.

Onduline Technical Sales Manager Greg Hissey

said: “Requirements in roofing materials have

changed, and architects and specifiers are

being increasingly asked to find solutions that

are aesthetically pleasing while being mindful

of the environment.

“ONDUPLAST COLOUR not only looks good, it

requires no specialist tooling for installation

and its light weight optimises transport costs. It

is a flexible system that adapts to any

architectural style and the materials used for

both the panels and the accessories do not

present any health hazard.”

As well as coming in a range of pleasing

colours, ONDUPLAST COLOUR has good

technical strength, excellent wind upload

properties and is highly chemical resistant.

Greg added: “While it is brand new it has the

ease of installation that is associated with our

The ONDUPLAST COLOUR range from Onduline.

products when you use traditional Onduline

accessories and fixings.”

As well as being suitable or the industrial,

commercial and agricultural sectors, it can also

be used for DIY projects such as car ports and

cladding for garden outbuildings.

For more information on Onduline’s lightweight,

eco-friendly and durable roofing solutions visit

www.onduline.co.uk

52 TC OCTOBER 2020

The ideal low maintenance, rot-resistant

alternative to traditional cladding material

that will give your home a timelessly

beautiful facade.

ü low maintenance

ü

ü

factory applied colour

easy to install

more at cedral.co.uk

TrustMark Comment

GREEN HOMES GRANT: WE NEED

TO BE READY TO MEET DEMAND

Simon Ayers, CEO of TrustMark, discusses the Green Homes Grant Voucher Scheme,

outlining the impact it can have and what installers need to be aware of...

The Green Homes Grant Voucher Scheme

(GHGVS) is a turning point in our recovery

and an important commitment from the

government to decarbonise properties and keep

us on track to reach net-zero by 2050.

The scheme will enable householders to obtain

funding for up to two-thirds (up to £5000) of the

cost of the energy efficiency measures identified,

while households on lower incomes and receiving

certain benefits could be entitled to all the cost

(up to £10,000). Since the end of September,

homeowners across the country have been able

to start applying for the funding and it is possible

that over 600,000 homes could benefit from the

scheme. A large proportion of the work is likely to

be related to the construction industry and this

sector needs to be ready to meet this demand.

Work funded through the GHGVS, is a vital

component of the Whole House Retrofit approach

to make homes greener. At TrustMark, we firmly

believe it is important that a property is looked at

holistically and we look at the ‘fabric first’ so we

can address the overall efficiency of the building,

and improve insulation, airtightness and

ventilation. Only through a whole house approach

can a property owner determine what measures

are needed for optimising home energy efficiency

and ensuring the best value for money.

Our new and existing housing stock account for

18% of CO2 emissions and 15% of total

greenhouse gas emissions. At the end of 2019,

70% of homes with a cavity wall had cavity wall

insulation (14.1 million properties), 66% of

homes with a loft had loft insulation (16.4 million

properties) and 9% of homes with solid walls had

solid wall insulation (764,000 properties). Good

How to get involved:

We would encourage businesses to register with

TrustMark so they can deliver the GHGVS.

In order to install energy efficiency measures under

the GHGVS, a business must also be Publicly

Available Specification (PAS) standards 2030:

2017 or 2030: 2019 certified, by a certification

body that has been accredited by the United

Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS). More

information is available on the UKAS website. To

install low carbon heating measures, such as heat

pumps, you must be certified with the

Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS).

insulation, properly installed, creates an insulated

envelope, helping to keep temperatures stable,

reducing the amount of heat lost through the

walls, floors and roofs. Overall, it is one of the

most cost-effective solutions when maximising

the energy efficiency of a property and improving

the overall performance.

Installers: rise to the challenge

There is no doubt that this is a pivotal moment.

Decarbonising our heating supply and the

opportunity ahead for the construction sector is an

enormous task. Installers who take the opportunity

to be more energy efficient and rise to the challenge

will benefit from a share in the marketplace, which

will be exponential over the next 30 years. By

improving energy efficiency and moving to cleaner

ways to heat our homes, we can reduce carbon

emissions and keep down household energy costs

now and in the future.

TrustMark is proud to be working with the

Department for Business, Energy, and Industrial

Strategy (BEIS) and industry sectors to support the

delivery of the GHGVS. To

ensure the work carried out

under the scheme is of a high

quality that consumers can trust, all

businesses need to be certified to install energy

efficiency or low carbon heat measures to the

relevant standards and be registered with

TrustMark. By becoming TrustMark registered,

businesses will be able to benefit from the increase

in demand that the GHGVS is likely to have, as well

as having access to finance options for customers

and having the opportunity to become Trading

Standards Approved.

The GHGVS will boost the UK’s economic recovery,

creating new jobs, supporting existing jobs and

investment from government supported by private

investment. The time for innovation and

development is now. Through the GHGVS we can

collectively play a vital role in the delivery of lower

carbon properties, with reduced energy costs and

better living conditions for the occupiers, whilst

helping reach the goal of net-zero carbon by 2050.

We need to act now to reach this goal and the

current rate of energy improvements to our homes

needs to drastically improve to allow us to hit this

target.

TrustMark is working closely with BEIS and other

government departments to ensure the GHGVS

delivers it goal to build back greener, support jobs,

reduce energy bills and cut carbon emissions.

Further info: www.ukas.com, mcscertified.com,

www.gov.uk

Contact TrustMark

www.trustmark.org.uk

@TrustMarkUK / #Each HomeCounts

54 TC OCTOBER 2020

Approved Applicator Schemes

THE DRIVE FOR BETTER SKILLS

A building product may well have been tried and tested for years but if it is poorly

installed or the workmanship is simply substandard, remedial work will be required,

impacting a contractor’s bottom line. In order to stay competitive, manufacturer training

can help generate more business and increase client satisfaction. The team at Parex

make the case for approved applicator schemes and the benefits of manufacturer-led

training.

The drive for better skills standards and

professional competency has never been

more apparent in recent years with

continued pressure on companies to demonstrate

their staff are competent, properly assessed,

managed and supervised. The ever-widening

skills shortage has fuelled this issue, which is

why skillful and knowledgeable contractors who

are dedicated to quality have become so sought

after.

Faced with this building better challenge,

architects and their clients want to be sure that

they are getting the best of everything – from

specification advice to product information;

service to installation – when selecting products.

To minimise the risk of failure as much as

possible, some manufacturers have introduced a

registered applicator scheme which can raise

installation standards through approved training

of site operatives and conduct to ensure

recommended contractors deliver a quality

installation competitively.

Assurance of quality

Through the implementation of an accredited

applicator scheme, architects and their clients

can not only be sure of excellent standards of

materials and workmanship, they can be sure

that the product specified will not let them down.

As a market leader for rendered façade systems,

Parex is committed to achieving and maintaining

the highest standards, and it begins with training.

For applicators, a highly trained team produces a

better-quality render application and will reduce

the risk of costly rework.

“The improvement of

standards throughout

the construction sector

is one of the most

important issues

facing the industry

today”

To ensure integrity, entry to the Parex scheme for

contractors is stringent, with only the most skilled

and reliable companies achieving accreditation.

Registered contractors must be able to provide

evidence of a stable trading history, a quality

policy or system, good project references and a

commitment to health and safety and the

environment. In addition to this, companies must

comply with all relevant British Standards, hold

appropriate insurance cover and be VAT

registered.

Real-world application

Applicants will also have the opportunity to attend

either an applicator course or toolbox talk which

offers training in the features, benefits and

methods of application for Parex products in a

real-world environment. On successful approval

from Parex, contractors will then be able to join

its Applicator Company Register and be a

registered installer of render systems including

Parextherm, Parexdirect and one coat renders

such as Monorex.

Parex also offers a warranty system, so if a client

wants a warranty of a current render system, it

has strict guidelines of how that warranty is

obtained. If necessary, the company will carry out

pre-inspection of the building followed up with

‘during’ and ‘post’ inspections of the installation.

Subject to approval and acceptance, Parex is then

able to offer this warranty to the accredited and

approved applicator. Furthermore, Parex invests a

considerable sum each year so that its products

and systems can undergo rigorous quality control

and third party testing.

Raising standards

The improvement of standards throughout the

construction sector is one of the most important

issues facing the industry today. An approved

applicator scheme is one way for manufacturers

to help promote quality on projects, as well as

significantly improve competency and skills. With

the excellent standard of materials guaranteed by

Parex and the installation guaranteed by the

approved applicator, specifiers and their clients

will have increased confidence.

“Registered contractors

must be able to provide

evidence of a stable

trading history, a

quality policy or

system, good project

references and a

commitment to health

and safety”

Contact Parex

www.parex.co.uk

@parexuk

56 TC OCTOBER 2020

FOR FLAT ROOFING CONTRACTORS

THINNER BY DESIGN

Struggling to achieve the u-value on an inverted roof due to low upstand heights?

Quantum Insulation have the solution; the only BBA Certified Vacuum Insulated Panel (VIP)

for inverted roof applications. Suitable for use on any BBA Certified zero falls inverted roof

waterproofing the Quantum PLUS + VIP insulation system was specifically developed for

use wherever build-up thickness is critical to making the roof or roof terrace construction

viable. Accepted by the NHBC in inverted roof applications Quantum PLUS + VIP can be up

to 5 times thinner than EPS or XPS inverted roof insulation boards.

With our comprehensive design and calculation service, and a wide-ranging understanding

of the flat roofing market, QI support contractors in finding insulation solutions and

demonstrating compliance.

240mm

220mm

50mm

Expanded Extruded Quantum PLUS +

0.038 W/m . K 0.034 W/m . K 0.007 W/m . K

The depth of board to achieve an R-value of 6.250 m 2 K/W - rounded up to the nearest standard depth

For further information please contact:

www.quantuminsulation.com

Insulation Updates

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

MAKE SAVINGS WITH TAPERED SYSTEMS

A new white paper has highlighted that

tapered roof insulation systems, which

combine flat roof insulation and drainage in

a single product, can achieve considerable

savings when compared with other common

methods for creating a fall on a flat roof.

The report shows the tapered insulation systems

require no drying time, can be as little as around

3% the weight of screed to fall systems and

deliver cost savings of as much as £58 per m²

(43%) on the roof build-up above the deck.

The Flat Roof Drainage white paper from

Kingspan Insulation examines three commonly

used methods of achieving a fall on a warm deck

flat roof: screed laid to falls; timber firrings under

a plywood deck; and tapered roof insulation

(specifically Kingspan Thermataper Systems)

It features a comparative cost analysis from

Currie & Brown, looking at the three approaches

across four new build non-residential buildings

with concrete decks. These included a hospital

extension and office blocks, with roof areas of

between 192m² and 3,073m². All of the

constructions use Kingspan Therma range

insulation and are designed to achieve identical

U-values of 0.16 W/m²K.

The results showed that the Kingspan

Thermataper Systems provided the most costeffective

option across all four case studies. The

system provided savings of £43 – 58 per m² (up

to 43%) on the roof build-up above deck when

compared with screed to falls and £15 – 32 per

m² (up to 23%) when compared with the timber

firrings. The analysis concluded that Kingspan

Thermataper Systems would also provide cost

savings on timber and metal deck roofs when

compared with timber firings.

The white paper also highlights that a standard

cement: sand screed dries at approximately one

month per 25mm thickness. This means that the

drying time can be as much

as 195 days or more on

larger surfaces – greatly

extending project

timescales. Whilst this can

be reduced with a quick-drying screed, this will

raise system costs by between 40-50%.

Weight is also identified as an issue, with

standard cement: sand screed weighing around

2000 kg/m³. When applied to the 3,073m² case

study roof this led to a total above deck system

weight of 1,005,000 kg, compared with just

23,000 kg for the Kingspan Thermataper

System. This added weight will have clear

structural implications for the building

foundations and frame along with additional

costs beyond those highlighted in the Currie &

Brown analysis.

www.kingspaninsulation.co.uk/

flatroofdrainage

RAVATHERM XPS X 200 SB TAKES TO THE FLOOR

Have you considered XPS as an affordable and

effective alternative for residential floor

insulation as opposed to traditional PIR

products?

Ravago Building Solutions, Europe’s largest

manufacturer of XPS insulation, says Extruded

Polystyrene (XPS) offers a cost-effective alternative

to PIR products where escalating raw material

prices and potential availability issues are beginning

durable meaning it can endure foot traffic on site.

Capable of withstanding 200 kPa, the boards meet

all requirements regarding compressive loads in the

domestic/residential market.

Ravatherm XPS X 200 SB products offer exceptional

thermal performance. The 50mm boards have a

declared lambda of 0.030 W/mK, and the 75mm,

100mm, and 125mm thicknesses achieve 0.031

W/mK.

cut easily and accurately using hand tools, offering

simple and quick installation with minimal waste.

These lightweight boards can easily be positioned

on-site for installation below the slab or below the

floor screed, as well as in beam and block floors.

Manufactured at Ravago’s UK plant in King’s Lynn,

Norfolk, Ravatherm XPS X 200 SB has a lead-time of

just three to four days from order to delivery.

Ravatherm XPS X 200 SB can be supplied in

to impact the market.

individual packs or a 15m3 bulk unit (2.5 x 2.5 x

With low water absorption Ravatherm XPS X 200

2.4m) on foam bearers. Bulk units can be broken

The manufacturer

SB has a natural

down on-site into 4 pre-wrapped units or split into

launched

resistance to rain,

individual packs, offering a variety of easy ways to

Ravatherm XPS X 200 SB

frost, snow, and water

transport material around a busy construction site.

earlier this year.

vapour, making it an

Ravatherm XPS X

200 SB is a highperformance

thermal insulation

ideal choice of product

for residential flooring

applications.

www.ravagobuildingsolutions.co.uk. Contact

Natalie Sutton on Natalie.sutton@ravago.com for

the enquiries in South of England and

board specifically designed for the

Adam.hilmi@ravago.com for the North.

Steel grey in colour and with a butt

residential market. The product is robust and

edge finish, Ravatherm XPS X 200 SB boards can be Left: The build-up for Ravatherm XPS X 200 SB.

58 TC OCTOBER 2020

THE HOME OF

METAL GUTTERING

(QUITE INTERESTING)

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Unrivalled

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The 31st August 2020 was an important day for the external envelope

industry. It was the day that BS 8579:2020 Balconies and Terraces

was published. Why is this document so important you may ask? Put

simply, even though it is only guidance it is being looked at as THE

document that unlocks the confusion over exactly what a balcony is,

attachment’ within Approved Document B Regulation 7.

If you haven’t had a chance to read this important new British Standard

yet the answers are;

• Projecting open balconies, projecting enclosed balconies, recessed

open balconies and recessed enclosed balconies are all balconies;

whether thermally broken or cantilever.

• Recessed open terraces, recessed enclosed terraces and access terraces

are all roofs.

• Terraces are roofs, but have a slightly different requirement depending

exit route.

0800 644 44 26 www.rainclear.co.uk

Not any clearer? The simple way to remember the requirements are

“if it’s over air it’ s a balcony” , “if it’s over heated space it’s a roof”.

So, if it’s classed as a roof on a relevant building to demonstrate

compliance with the requirements of Approved Document B the

installed roof system must be either tested to BS EN 13501-5 and

2000; loose laid gravel with a thickness of at least 50 mm or a mass

2

cement screed to a thickness of at least 30 mm, or cast stone or

mineral slabs of at least 40 mm thickness. However, in reality, most

the build-up, unless insurers require otherwise.

If it’s classed as a balcony (built over air) the entire build-up, apart

something called ‘non-combustible’.

This includes the insulation

Regulation 7(3)(g).

Next month’s QI by QI – ‘Correct Wa

ater Flow Reducing Layer (WFRL)

installation’

OCTOBER 2020 TC 59

Insulation Updates

STO TO DELIVER FURTHER BENEFITS

Sto Ltd has announced details of a new

logistics partnership agreement which has

been designed to create additional benefits for

customers of the company’s external wall

insulation, rainscreen cladding, render and

acoustic systems. The deal has seen the

company’s palletized freight requirements for

the UK and Ireland being handled by leading

specialists, Clarke Transport, since 1st

September this year.

“The agreement to partner with Clarke Transport

is part of a wider programme of moves to

develop our business structure and further

improve our operating efficiency,” explained Sto’s

Logistics Manager, Steve Catterson. “Our aim is

to provide customers with the best delivery

service available, and working with one of the

leading, privately owned, transport organizations

in the UK is a major step towards achieving that

goal.”


Clarke Transport is – like Sto – a family-operated

company that places considerable emphasis on

providing high levels of quality, value and

service. “This aligns perfectly with our own

business ethos and that makes Clarke a perfect

partner for Sto,” added Steve.

Established in 1933, Clarke Transport now has a

fleet of over 200 vehicles. These operate from a

network of strategically-located regional depots

which allow the company to provide a wide range

of delivery and warehousing solutions throughout

the UK.

“We realize that with today’s tight construction

schedules, Sto customers depend on timely and

reliable delivery schedules that see our products

arriving on-site exactly when they are required,”

Steve added. “Clarke Transport has the experience,

professional expertise and commitment to quality

service that will allow us to satisfy those

A new report co-authored by the government’s MMC champion Mark Farmer, urging it to put

modular building at the heart of its ‘build build build’ ambition, has been welcomed by Actis

The report, compiled with architect Mike De’Ath, says the government should set a target for 75,000

homes a year to be of modular construction by the end of the decade. This would equate to 25% of

its overall target of 300,000 homes a year. Mark Farmer and Mike De’Ath’s 68-page Build Homes,

Build Jobs, Build Innovation report states that such a move could create 50,000 jobs and result in

attractive, well designed, quality, low and zero carbon homes. The report calls on the government to

stimulate demand for the Modern Methods of Construction, thus giving investors confidence in the

new style of manufacture and ensure there is sufficient factory capacity to create the homes.

Above: Mark Wilson, Managing Director for Clarke Transport

(seated) and Paul Andrews, Interim UK Financial Director for

Sto Ltd, sign the new logistics partnership agreement to

further improve Sto’s operating efficiency.

expectations, and we’re looking forward to working

with them.” www.sto.co.uk

ACTIS WELCOMES FARMER'S MODULAR HOMES CALL

Actis UK and Ireland Sales Director Mark Cooper, says the push to encourage far wider adoption of

MMC is to be welcomed: “The speed with which such homes can be built has two-fold benefits –

accelerating the delivery of much-needed new homes, while at the same time addressing the

shortage of skilled workers to build them. Added to that, quality is far better controlled, and they can

be thermally superb, cutting carbon emissions and saving money and resources.”

Actis UK and Ireland Sales Director Mark Cooper

welcomes the Build Homes, Build Jobs, Build Innovation

report co-authored by the government’s MMC champion

Mark Farmer. www.insulation-actis.com

Mark Farmer explained: “There are multiple market failures that remain to be overcome in growing

modular and broader MMC adoption and at the heart of solving them is a need for demand led

transformation, supported by greater coordination, aggregation and collaboration in the market.

Quality must also always come first to ensure we deliver great homes in great places to live, and the

report showcases real examples of what is now possible using modern and innovative techniques.”

60 TC OCTOBER 2020

Flexi Support Systems

Modular Frames for split systems, VRV systems

and smaller AHU’s

° Fast & Simple to install

° Full AutoCAD drawing support

° Load management and wind calculations

° Available with 320mm or 500mm square foot

° On-site support

PUMP

HOUSE

www.flexisupportsystems.co.uk / +44(0)115 900 5858

FIT IT.FORGET IT.

Trust Ubbink for

quality roofing

products to make

your life easier

Call us on 01604 433000 or visit

our website for more details.

• VENTS • TERMINALS • NON-LEAD FLASHING

• ROOFLINE PRODUCTS • & MORE

www.ubbink.co.uk

OCTOBER 2020 TC 61

Article

Working at Height

SAFETY STEPS TO WORK AT HEIGHT

When working at height, it is crucial that roofers are aware of the many different tools and

equipment available to them that can help to minimise the risk of falls. Below, Jamie

Brassington, Product Manager at WernerCo, discusses the different equipment that should

be used and the support available that can help educate roofers on the safest ways of

working.

Whilst trade bodies and manufacturers

have continued to educate tradesmen

on the dangers of working at height, the

recent figures from HSE show that there is work

to be done. The latest ‘Workplace Fatal Injuries in

Great Britain 2020' Annual Statistics report

showed that whilst there was a reduction in

fatalities caused by a fall from height during

2019/20, it still remains the main cause of fatal

accidents, accounting for almost a third of all

those recorded.

To help combat this, it is crucial that roofers are

utilising the correct tools and that employees and

employers are up to date on best working

practices in order to safely work at height.

“Ladders should only

be used for short

periods, for light work

and should also not be

used if the user has to

overreach”

Using equipment safely

When it comes to finding safe ways to work at

height, there are a range of different tools and

equipment available that are suited to different

types of jobs.

Ladders, for example, should only be used for

short periods, for light work and should also not

be used if the user has to overreach. Work at

Height regulations prohibits overreaching as this

can cause injury, and if the user cannot move

around easily or needs to frequently reposition a

ladder in order to work, this can

hinder productivity.

Any work that is done

with the aid of a

ladder should always

be carried out faceon

and three points

of contact should

always be maintained.

When working on roofs,

the suitability requirements

are also often different as

access to another level is usually

required, meaning any ladder used must extend

past the stepping point by at least 1 metre.

For the majority of work carried out on a flat roof,

temporary fall protection is usually needed to

undertake work safely. Although it might seem

obvious, when working on a sloping roof, workers

should never work directly on slates or tiles

unless they have additional safety measures,

such as a roof ladder. The Youngman 5766 Roof

Ladder series is designed especially for roofs

pitched up to 55° and is fitted with ridge hook

assembly, support bearers and wheels to help

easily position the ladder and secure it when in

use.

Be properly informed

For any ladder user looking for more information,

the Access Industry Forum’s (AIF) new Safety

Steps handbooks are a good starting point.

Created in conjunction with other work at height

organisations, the handbooks include

comprehensive advice for anybody using a ladder

or specifying working at height equipment. This is

done through handy flow charts

and checklists, which

operatives and managers

can follow to make the

correct safety

decisions.

As part of the

guidance provided by

AIF, it is also

highlighted that anybody

working at height must

have sufficient knowledge and

training before undertaking any job. In

order to comply with this, WernerCo offers

specific work at height training such as the

Ladder Association’s Ladders and Stepladders for

Users or PASMA’s Towers for Users course, both

which have recently been tailored to

accommodate social distancing. These short

courses provide those working at height with the

knowledge they need in order to work safely and

use equipment correctly.

As well as taking careful considerations to ensure

the correct tools and pieces of equipment are

made available, both employers and employees

have a responsibility to ensure their correct use.

By enhancing their knowledge and following the

guidelines set out by trade bodies, such as the

AIF, roofers can play their part in helping reduce

the number of accidents that occur when working

at height.

Contact Youngman / WernerCo

www.youngmanaccess.com

www.wernerworldwide.com

62 TC OCTOBER 2020

GET AHEAD

OF THE

GAME…

…with new building safety regulations coming, proving the competency of

your team is going to be critical. Register NOW to start your operatives on their

RoofCERT journey. Don’t be left behind with the changes afoot.

Register at www.roofcert.co.uk/tc

Register TODAY

2,000 funded

accreditations available

a saving of ~£300 per operative*

RoofCERT—the home of Professional Roofers

RoofCERT accreditation benefits your company through:

• Your team having clear proof of their skills and knowledge

• Providing an easy to manage training record for operatives

• Recognition of employing those with the highest professional standards

• Being ahead of forthcoming regulatory changes in the sector

• Supporting professionalisation of the roofing industry

Interested in finding out more about putting your company’s operatives

through RoofCERT accreditation? Call 020 3940 0053

* Funding covers the RoofCERT Knowledge Test and evaluation of training and qualifications. Operatives may

still need to cover costs of mandatory health and safety training if they do not already have the required evidence.

Updates

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

NEW SECTORS FOR NORTON CLIPPER

After increasingly high demand, Norton

Clipper’s coveted range has broken new

ground with movement into four new

application sectors:

construction and building industries,

products in the Norton Clipper range

are known for their durability, quality

and expert finish – and these new

identify which materials it can be

used for, as follows: Light Blue:

Wood and Composites; Purple:

Multi-materials; Yellow: Veneer

additions are no exception.

and Laminates; Dark Grey:

Wood and composites: Built for power,

Aluminium.

precision and durability, these tools encompass Within each application sector, users can

solutions for hard and soft wood, wooden panels,

OSB, MDF, and HDF; Multi-materials: These

blades are designed to cut construction timbers,

pallets, nails and non-ferrous metals, without

find a variety of different Tungsten Carbide Tipped

(TCT) circular saw blades, hole saws, jigsaw

blades, reciprocating saw blades and planer blades

to suit a wide variety of processing requirements.

Adrian Hough, Country Manager at Saint-Gobain

Abrasives commented: “We are very excited to

be entering into these new sectors and

applications. This is a progression which was

damage to the blade itself. Veneer and

very much driven by customer demand, and one

The optimised gullet shape on the circular saw

laminates: Whether cutting melamine faced

which will continue the legacy of high quality and

blades ensures a reduction in blade vibration to

boards, plywood, laminated panels or sheets of

durability attached to the Norton Clipper brand.

offer a more precise cut every time, whilst the

HPL, this range has a professional blade to suit.

Aluminium: This is Norton Clipper's specialist

reduction in noise and heat build-up on the steel

centre increases safety for users.

“We are confident that both professionals and

DIYers alike will be thrilled with these new

range of blades, suited to cutting aluminium,

blades, which prioritise user safety and deliver

To help contractors quickly and easily choose the

brass, and copper.

excellent results, time after time.”

correct tool for their project, the packaging in the

Renowned as the cutting product of choice in the new range is colour coded in order to help www.nortonabrasives.com

TOP CREDENTIALS FOR AUTUMN

Snickers Workwear has launched its new range of POLARTEC Power Stretch jackets and fleeces.

Sharp, stylish looks and market-leading recycled POLARTEC fabric technology make these a must for

the autumn on site or outdoor leisurewear. The versatile FLEXIWork full-stretch jackets, deliver a tight,

body-hugging fit with efficient moisture transportation and durable shape retention, plus great

freedom of movement. There’s also long johns to match for full body insulation.

The AllroundWork fleeces and bodywarmers – made from 80% recycled polyester – are packed for

warmth and comfort to keep your body warm or comfortably cool when you most need it.

Snickers Workwear has called its new POLARTEC Power

Stretch jackets and fleeces range the ‘sustainable choice’.

Fashionable and functional, they combine practicality with street-smart looks and offer the right kind

of sustainable choice for tradespeople.

www.snickersworkwear.co.uk

DRIVING DELIVERY SUCCESS

Permaroof UK says it has invested in two brand new vehicles to boost the speed and

consistency of its service as external couriers continue to feel the pressure of the pandemic.

Permaroof has increased the size of its delivery fleet

from four lorries to six. This means that orders going to

its merchant stockists and directly to contractors are

guaranteed to remain timely, with reliable deliveries

made where and when they are needed.

Adrian Buttress, MD of Permaroof UK, said: “One of the challenges we faced during lockdown was couriers

starting to let us down, with an obvious knock-on effect to our customers and in turn, their clients. As an

independent family-run business, it’s just so important that our standards of service remain consistent, so

this investment was essential. Having two additional vehicles also increases the capacity of what we can

offer which is crucial as the business continues to go from strength to strength.” www.permaroof.co.uk

64 TC OCTOBER 2020

Updates

#UNITEDBYINSPIRATION

Global workwear brand Dickies is calling on

tradespeople to nominate someone whose

work inspires them as part of a new campaign

celebrating those who love what they do and

take pride in their work.

The global campaign, United by Inspiration, United

by Dickies, features footage of ten of Dickies’

community of makers from around the world

showing their skills, including British stonemason

Rob Maxfield (pic). In light of global restrictions on

social contact, the footage was shot by the

makers themselves and aims to highlight how

those who make a living with their hands can

continue to inspire each other despite the

distancing imposed by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Rob’s footage is juxtaposed with London-based

barber Klipper Kem. Both are wearing the iconic

Dickies Portland shirt – a ‘lumberjack’-style

checked shirt, which is one of the brand’s

enduring best-sellers.

As part of the campaign, Dickies is calling on

tradespeople to nominate someone whose work

inspires them by tagging them on social

regardless of whether they work in the same

trade. Dickies says you can improve your chances

further by telling them why – in words, photos or

to camera and using the hashtag

#unitedbyinspiration. Both nominators and

nominees will be entered into a draw to win their

own Portland shirt.

“While communities have been forced apart

during the pandemic, tradespeople and the

‘makers’ of this world continue to work hard and

inspire one another with their efforts,” said James

Whitaker, Marketing Director.

“We’re keen to find out where people in all kinds

Find out more about the campaign:

https://www.dickiesworkwear.com/uk/blog/united-byinspiration.

of trades draw their inspiration. Perhaps it’s

someone who’s trained them as an apprentice or

who inspired them to follow their particular career

path. It could be someone who has given them the

confidence to start their own business, or even

someone whose work inspires them to take a

more creative approach to their role.”

Share your nomination on social media, using the

hashtag #unitedbyinspiration, tagging

dickiesworkwearofficial using the following

details: On Twitter: @DickiesEurope; on

Instagram: @dickiesworkwearofficial; on

Facebook: @DickiesWorkwear

VISIBLE BENEFITS WITH SNICKERS

To overcome the problem of long working days and cheap uncomfortable clothing, Snickers

Workwear has launched its protective wear range, which it describes as the better-informed

choice for men and women working in hazardous environments and inclement weather.

There’s a comprehensive selection of ergonomically designed base-, mid- and top-layer clothes,

certified as appropriate for different risks at work to ensure comfort, health and workforce-wellbeing

all day, every day. The new range also includes waterproof and windproof AllroundWork Hi-Vis Jackets

that provide protection in low-light, high-risk environments.

So, whatever the hazard on site, the Snickers Workwear Hi-Vis collection and ProtecWork range can

provide a protective wear solution to provide maximum, certified protection whatever the risks on

site. www.snickersworkwear.co.uk

THE RIGHT GEAR WITH RINUS

Mercedes-Benz operator Rinus Roofing Supplies is now running its first two trucks to be equipped

with the manufacturer’s latest, ground-breaking safety technology.

Rinus Roofing Supplies operates from a head office in

Darwen, Lancashire, and a network of 24 other

locations which it continues to expand.

Supplied by Bell Truck and Van, both are muscular Arocs rigids with ClassicSpace M-cabs, JC Payne

dropside bodies, and rear-mounted Hiab cranes. Their impressive specifications include MirrorCam, the

revolutionary camera-based replacement for conventional mirrors, and the Active Brake Assist 5

emergency braking system. One, a 26-tonne 2532 L model, is now working from the branch in Leeds. The

other, an 18-tonne 1827 L, is based at its depot in Bradford. www.rinusroofingsupplies.co.uk

66 TC OCTOBER 2020

ROOF

TUBE

maximise the exposure and make video content more accessible

www.roof-tube.co.uk

The first dedicated site exclusively for

Roofing – Cladding – Insulation video content.

Channels - Build your own channel and create a new audience for your content

Playlists/Suggested videos - We can compile playlists ensuring relevant

content is shown to your target audience

Categories - Currently set as Flat Roofing and Waterproofing, Pitched

Roofing, Insulation, Cladding, Green/Blue Roofs, Safety Equipment, Vans,

Tools, Workwear and Safety Equipment

Banner Ads - Targetted opportunities to put your business and products in

front of a new audience

For more information contact

andydunn@media-now.co.uk or jakeroxborough@media-now.co.uk

October 2020

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