January 2021

JANUARY 2021
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Use in wind uplift zones 1-4.
Warm roof or cold.
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RCI March Mike Swain_Layout 1 3/4/19 3:15 PM Page 1
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Editor’s Comment
MATT DOWNS
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
MATTDOWNS@MEDIA-NOW.CO.UK
07963 330774
Highest uninterrupted airflow rate.
Use in wind uplift zones 1-4.
Warm roof or cold.
The past year has thrown so much at those operating in construction.
Alongside the everyday challenges of operating a business or carrying out
work on site, they’ve had to keep up with changing guidelines and
restrictions due to Covid-19, plus keep pace with consultations and
announcements from government as it attempts to overhaul and prepare
the sector for future challenges and targets.
In amongst this recent flurry of guidance documents was the government’s
Construction Playbook, which James Talman, NFRC Chief Executive, says
“could be one of the most transformative policies our industry has ever
seen in recent times.”
Visit www.protectmembranes.com/vikingair to read about our
independently certified air & vapour permeable roof underlay.
Cover image courtesy of Glidevale Protect: Find out more about
their range of solutions at: www.protectmembranes.com
FOLLOW US @TOTCONTRACTORUK
SIGN UP FOR YOUR E-NEWSLETTER AT
WWW.TOTAL-CONTRACTOR.CO.UK
Whilst the Playbook is targeted at those in government departments who
commission the work and attempts to overhaul the way government
procures construction projects – “moving away from a focus on cost to
whole life value” – as James explains in his article on page 16, “its
principles and policies will have ripple effects down the whole supply
chain”, including impacting how roofing and cladding contractors operate.
Advertising:
Publishing Director: Andy Dunn
DD: 01892 732 047
Mob: 07963 330777
Email: andydunn@media-now.co.uk
Commercial Manager: Jake Roxborough
DD: 01892 732 047
Mob: 07956 133314
Email: jakeroxborough@media-now.co.uk
Elsewhere in this issue, Simon Blackham and Richard Clennell of IMA
member companies Recticel and Bauder answer questions on tapered
systems (p20); Stuart Nicholson of Marley says there are opportunities for
roofers as solar demand is set to surge (p24); Building Innovation’s Darren
Smith outlines the key considerations when insulating existing flat roofs
(p34); and Makita UK’s Kevin Brannigan explains why safe and convenient
tool access is crucial on projects (p56).
So read on for all this and much more!
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JANUARY 2021 TC 3

Contents
3 KEY FEATURES
20 TAPERED QUESTIONS
Simon Blackham and Richard Clennell, of IMA
members Recticel and Bauder, offer insight into
the considerations contractors need to be aware
of when installing a tapered roofing system
24 SOLAR SURGE
With the demand for renewables set to soar
over the next few years, Stuart Nicholson says
it’s never been easier for contractors to add
solar to their offering
34
30 TALES OF THE UNEXPECTED
Justin Pittman looks back on two projects
which show just how quickly the best planning
can go out the window, and why it’s crucial to
expect the unexpected on roofing projects
22
FURTHER READING
28 WIDE-RANGING BENEFITS
With a surge in demand for building products, Lewis
Turnbull says large format roof tiles can help...
32 EPDM: OFFER A LITTLE MORE
Rob Hunt says there are opportunities to add a little
more by using EPDM on small projects such as log stores
34 EXISTING PROBLEMS
Darren Smith talks through the key considerations when
when carrying out work on existing flat roofs
36 WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY
Paul Edwards provides best practice installation advice as
demand continues to grow for roof windows
42
42 THERMAL PERFORMANCE
Simon Fielden explains why contractors must pay attention
to the selection of rainscreen subframes
56 HANDS-ON TOOL ASSISTANCE
Kevin Brannigan says safe access to tools on projects is
so crucial and outlines some of solutions for roofers
4 TC JANUARY 2021

REGULARS
16 NFRC ROOFING FOCUS
James Talman says roofing and cladding
contractors need to take note of what the
government’s new Construction Playbook
means for them...
22 PERFECTLY PITCHED
John Mercer explains why it’s important not to
overlook the details when it comes to
weathering junctions with the main roof
tiling on features like dormer windows
51 QI BY QI COLUMN
In the latest instalment of their regular
column, the insulation experts at QI discuss
the difference between buying XPS by the m²
rather than m³...
SECTIONS:
TOTAL
ROOFING
22
TOTAL
CLADDING
42
INDUSTRY NEWS
06 LANGLEY SCOOPS TOP AWARD
Incredible commitment to the Scheme and training sees
Langley win Considerate Constructors Scheme award
10 DUST BREACHES UP ON SITES
The BSG has reported that the number of dust breaches
are up 23% on construction sites
TOTAL
INSULATION
48
VEHICLES, TOOLS
& WORKWEAR
06
54
JANUARY 2021 TC 5

Industry News
BRETT MARTIN’S
NEW IDENTITY
Brett Martin has announced the launch of its
new corporate identity, which it says will be
rolled out over the coming months in a
comprehensive programme including a new
website, fleet livery, marketing and
merchandising materials.
Designed to communicate the company’s
current scale, Brett Martin says the new
identity expresses its fresh, open and
ambitious style which has remained
consistent in over 60 years of trading. The
new, bolder brand will also flow into the
extensive library of technical support
documents which is widely regarded as a
valuable resource for the roofing industry.
Commenting on the new branding, Tom
Ogilvie, Managing Director of Brett Martin
Daylight Systems, said: “Our new identity
expresses the energy and capabilities of
Brett Martin perfectly. We are well known in
the industry for unbiased advice, support
and technically superior products which add
value for the customer. We are continuing to
invest in new solutions, and we have the
people and expertise to further enhance our
service.”
The current identity has been in place for
almost 30 years in which time Brett Martin
has grown extensively, expanding its
daylighting product range from pitched
roofing to flat roofing and vertical facades.
Today, Brett Martin says total turnover across
all operations exceeds £180m, generated
across the company’s markets in the UK and
Ireland and through extensive export activity.
More news, updates and interviews at www.total-contractor.co.uk
LANGLEY WINS TOP SUPPLIER AWARD
Langley Waterproofing Systems has
been nationally recognised as the
Most Considerate Supplier as part of
the Considerate Constructors
Scheme’s 2020 National Company
and Supplier Awards, achieving the
highest award category.
The Considerate Constructors Scheme (CCS)
National Company and Supplier Awards aims to
raise standards in the construction industry by
recognising the highest-performing CCS-registered
companies and suppliers across the UK and Ireland,
based on their performance against the scheme’s
‘Code of Considerate Practice’.
Companies and suppliers are monitored and only
the highest performing construction companies that
have demonstrated excellence in relation to the
community, the environment and their workforce are
recognised by the scheme with a National Award.
To win the ‘2020 Most Considerate Supplier Award’,
FREE OFFERS IN JAN WITH RAINCLEAR
This January, Rainclear Systems, the UK’s
leading stockist and online retailer of metal
rainwater, roofline and drainage solutions, is
including FREE fixings with every Gutter,
Downpipe and LCC or SimpleFIT Soil Pipe
order.
Plus – while stocks last – on orders over £500
customers will receive a Rainclear winter hat, and
with orders over £1,000 customers will receive a
Rainclear fleece.
Freya Cottell, Rainclear’s Sales Support
Administrator, explained: “We’ll calculate all the
screws, nuts, bolts, nails and – where relevant –
silicone sealant or our patented gutter sealing
packs needed, based on the size and content of
the order, and include them in the delivery, saving
customers having to work all of that out for
themselves, as well as the cost of the fixings.
“Everything needed to get on and install the
the Scheme’s Monitor found that
Langley demonstrated incredible
commitment to the Scheme with its
values embedded at all levels of the
business, and noted particular
recognition for exceptional
awareness of its environmental impact and
commitment to reducing the industry’s skills gap
with a wide range of training. With specific
emphasis on Langley’s award winning ‘Waterproof
Membranes Installer’ Apprenticeship Standard
offering, as part of the Government-backed
Trailblazer Scheme.
Nicola Jeffries, Head of Administration at Langley
Waterproofing Systems, commented: “We are
absolutely thrilled to win the 2020 Most Considerate
Supplier Award, particularly as the accolade follows
independent assessment and auditing, so we are
delighted that our hard work and dedication to
improving the construction industry’s image has
been recognised by this prestigious scheme.”
Rainclear’s Sales Support Administrator, Freya Cottell,
wearing the winter hat & fleece, and holding an example of
fittings customers can expect to receive for free with orders
placed in January 2021.
system they’ve bought will be delivered in one go.
A winter hat and fleece are also pretty essential
right now, whether you’re doing an installation on
a roofline or just getting outside for a socially
distanced catch-up.”
Visit www.rainclear.co.uk to browse and buy all
the metal rainwater, roofline and drainage ranges
online.
6 TC JANUARY 2021

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Industry News
SUPPLY & COST
CONCERNS CONTINUE
Nine in ten builders face rising costs, as
supply chain disruptions and rising product
demand are making it hard for construction.
That’s the view following the latest State of
Trade Survey from the Federation of Master
Builders (FMB). It says the data paints a
worrying picture that the Government must
address to ensure that builders do not face a
cliff-edge in the construction supply chain from
January 2021. After a busy summer, the FMB
points out “workloads are slowing”, and says
this, “combined with rising material prices and
key shortages”, means “further steps must be
taken to support construction at this crucial
time, and end the uncertainty.”
The latest findings from the FMB State of Trade
Survey for Q3 2020 include: 9 in 10 builders
(87%) said material costs are rising, up from 8
in 10 (78%) in the summer; and only 4 in 10
builders (39%) reported a rise in workloads,
down from 5 in 10 (47%) in Q2.
Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said:
“Builders are facing significant material
shortages and growing waiting times for the
products they need. With the end of the Brexit
transition period only weeks away (at the time
of writing), builders need confidence that they
will not face delays at the ports and price hikes.
With 87% of builders forecasting material price
hikes, recovery risks grinding to a halt if these
issues are not resolved. My members are
reporting that homeowners are holding off
planning home improvements next year.
Builders in the new build and industrial or
commercial sectors are also reporting
contracting workloads. By investing in a longterm
plan to green our existing homes, and by
ramping up funding for local authority planning
departments, the Government can help support
recovery and job retention in construction.”
More news, updates and interviews at www.total-contractor.co.uk
NATIONAL RETROFIT STRATEGY BACKED
As part of its work implementing the
•creating a ‘building passport’ for every
Roadmap to Recovery Plan, the
home;
Construction Leadership Council
• development of skills training
(CLC) has given its backing to a
modules;
National Retrofit Strategy which has
been issued for consultation.
• creating delivery programmes in trial
areas to enable a grassroots approach.
The CLC says with our existing homes using 35% of
all the energy in the UK, and responsible for 20% of The strategy has been developed by participants
carbon dioxide emissions, the National Retrofit of the Domestic RMI Workstream, one of the
Strategy puts forward a plan for upgrades that are CLC’s four sector specific workstreams looking at
vital if we are to meet the country’s net zero targets. Covid recovery, and brings together specialists
and the supply chain to address sector priorities.
According to the CLC, the plan will help make
homes greener and more energy – and water – CLC Steering Coordination Group member Mark
efficient, warmer and cheaper to run. This, it Reynolds said: “This strategy puts forward an
says, is in line with the UK Government’s target to ambitious plan for tackling climate change and
upgrade as many homes as possible to Energy creating jobs. It is fantastic to see the high level of
Performance Certificate (EPC) C by 2035. The CLC support for the strategy from our industry. The CLC
also points out that a national retrofit programme looks forward to working with BEIS and the Treasury
will aid recovery in the repair, maintenance and to determine how the Government can adopt the
improvement (RMI) sector, and provide
strategy’s recommendations. Retrofit promises a
opportunity for a joined-up approach to tackling great deal for the sector, including a long-term
climate change by all parts of the construction pipeline of work. Not limited to this, retrofit brings
industry. The strategy calls for partnership opportunities for upskilling, digitisation and
working between industry and Government innovation, all in line with the Construction Sector
according to these three key deliverables: Deal.”
RARE BAT SPECIES SUCCESSFULLY REHOMED
Aggregate Industries has shown its commitment designed specifically for the individual species, to
to help safeguard wildlife on and around its allow the rehoming of bats from an existing
sites, with a project to support and successfully bungalow which was approved for demolition. Now,
rehome two rare species of bat.
less than 18 months after the roost was built,
Aggregate Industries says there is clear evidence
The Greater and Lesser Horseshoe bats are said to
that it has been used by large numbers of bats in
be two of the rarest species of bat found in the UK,
summer 2020 – signalling the successful rehoming
and Aggregate Industries says there are
of these rare species.
longstanding records of them in the area around its
Westleigh Quarry, in Devon. When Aggregate Simon Wiltshire, Biodiversity and Restoration
Industries first started planning a project to develop Advisor (South) at Aggregate Industries, said: “We
a new area of the quarry in 2005, it says it worked are proud to be a responsible supplier across all
closely with Natural England to put in place a aspects of sustainability and ecology, and we were
number of protection measures including standoff delighted to work closely with JG Ecological Surveys
periods while the bats were active and hibernating. and Natural England throughout this project to
The company says it also built a new roost in 2019, understand how we could adapt our plans and
which was approved by Natural England and processes to ensure the bats were protected.”
8 TC JANUARY 2021

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Industry News
More news, updates and interviews at www.total-contractor.co.uk
KEMPER’S NEW MD: ‘EXCITING YEAR AHEAD’
Kemper System has appointed a
Speaking of his new role, Mark
new Managing Director.
said: “Kemper System has been
part of my life for almost 20 years
Mark Bruchez, from Cheshire, will
and I am thrilled to be taking on
be heading up the business at its
this new role. I am looking forward
headquarters in Warrington, as
Mark Bruchez, MD at Kemper System. to building on the solid
former MD Peter Dietrich steps
foundations that are already in
down.
place thanks to the excellent team at Kemper
Mark has worked at Kemper System for 17 years, System, and working positively towards the future
starting as technical coordinator in 2003, and to meet changing market conditions and customer
working his way up to executive director
requirements.
(technical) – a role he has undertaken for the last
“We have an exciting year ahead of us backed by a
decade.
strong team, and I am very much looking forward
With more than 30 years of experience within the to what the future holds.”
construction sector and business management
Peter Dietrich, former MD of Kemper System,
roles, Mark has also previously worked as a
added: “I am delighted that such a dedicated and
project leader and quality controller at Stirling
knowledgeable member of the Kemper System
Lloyd Group.
team will be taking on such an important role.
As a long-standing employee of Kemper System, Mark’s wealth of experience in the market and of
Mark has formed strong relationships with both Kemper System, as well as his customer driven
contractors and specifiers, and works closely with service and technical awareness will make a
the Kemper System head office in Germany, and positive impact on the business, and I wish him
subsidiaries across the globe.
the very best of luck.”
RGB LAUNCESTON
CELEBRATES 30 YRS
The Launceston branch of RGB Building
Supplies recently celebrated 30 years
since it opened its doors. As well as giving
away goody bags to thank visitors for their
custom, the branch team held a raffle in
aid of RGB’s chosen charity, Cornwall Air
Ambulance Trust, where one lucky person
won a signed Exeter Chiefs shirt. The raffle
raised £107 for the charity. The Launceston
branch was the first depot RGB opened in
Cornwall and it has continually grown and
developed the range it offers to customers.
Adam Davis, Branch Manager at RGB
Launceston, commented: “We’re delighted
to have been part of the Launceston
community since 1990. In that time, we’ve
developed long-lasting relationships with
trade and retail customers and, whilst the
current situation meant we were unable to
hold a big celebratory event, we wanted to
do something to mark the occasion.”
DUST BREACHES SAID TO BE UP 23% ON CONSTRUCTION SITES
The Building Safety Group (BSG) has reported a
23% rise in the number of dust breaches
occurring on construction sites.
BSG’s report was based on 9000 independent site
inspections conducted over a 6 month period from
June to November 2020. Two periods were
compared which revealed the increase. Between
June and August there were 209 infringements
recorded. This was set against 258 noncompliances
that were catalogued between
September and November 2020.
The most common types of breach found included
‘failure to set up effective dust suppression and
extraction procedures on site’. ‘Not having dust
masks face fit tested’ was also a common violation
recorded by BSG advisers. Each year 1,000s of
construction workers contract or die from respiratory
diseases due to breathing in dust and fumes.
Managing and controlling exposure to dust has
become a major challenge for the industry.
BSG’s report coincides with the Health and Safety
Executive’s (HSE) recent month-long initiative
inspecting respiratory risks and occupational lung
disease in the construction sector. The primary focus
was to identify what measures had been put in
place to protect workers’ lungs from asbestos, silica
and wood dust. HSE inspectors also looked for
evidence of employers and workers knowing the
risks, planning their work and using appropriate
controls. Enforcement was required where it was
found that people were not being adequately
protected.
BSG’s Managing Director, Stephen Bell, commented:
“Construction workers have a high risk of developing
Dust breaches on construction sites: 1st Jun – 30th Nov 2020.
these diseases because many common construction
tasks can create high dust levels. Work-related
cancers, mainly linked to asbestos and silica, are
estimated to kill 3,500 people from the industry
every year. Thousands of others suffer life-changing
illnesses from their work.“Our advice is to always
look at ways of stopping or reducing the amount of
dust before the job is started. For example, different
materials could be used, less powerful tools or other
work methods. Once these controls have been put in
place, it is of course vital to check that they are
working properly and effectively.”
10 TC JANUARY 2021

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centres maximum to enable use for leading edge protection.
Galvanised or powder coated finish. Protective mats 5mm
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Standards – Exceeds Class A EN13374- Class A; For
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Nationwide delivery or contract installation. – Free material
quantifying service – info@safetyworksandsolutions.co.uk
Ladders:- Easy Fit
Compliant to both BS/EN 5395 and 14122 –
To comply with the standards for
permanent ladders all mild steel then hot
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All typical ladders bespoke – email
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Easy Fit, all ladder components are Easy
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Rest Platforms and ladders with special
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Industry News
CCF APPOINTS NEW
MANAGING DIRECTOR
CCF has appointed Catherine Gibson as
its new Managing Director.
Catherine joins CCF from Tool Hire, which is
also part of the Travis Perkins plc Group, and
brings a wealth of knowledge and experience
to the role.
Catherine brings 16 years’ experience in the
manufacturing and construction industry in
management and leadership positions.
Catherine said of her appointment:
“Expanding CCF’s market share and
continuing its legacy as a completely
customer focused business is my top priority.
I’ll be exploring new ways to ensure the
growth and development of the business,
and look forward to working closely alongside
our people, customers and suppliers to meet
these high expectations.”
Catherine will replace Dean Pinner, who is
moving across to become Managing Director
of Keyline, also part of the Travis Perkins plc
Group.
More news, updates and interviews at www.total-contractor.co.uk
CALLS FOR CLEANER AIR FOR WORKERS
The British Safety Council has welcomed the
Prime Minister’s announcement that the UK
will aim to cut its carbon emissions by at least
68% of what they were in 1990, by the end of
2030.
As part of its Time to Breathe campaign, launched
in March 2019, the British Safety Council says it lives lost due to air pollution each year across the
has been calling on the Government to improve air country, according to the British Safety Council. It
quality for thousands of outdoor workers. These says these measures will also save on the £20
include construction workers, street cleaners, billion cost to the economy annually in healthcare
refuse workers, traffic police, cycle couriers, and impact on businesses.
maintenance workers, newspaper sellers,
Mike Robinson, the British Safety Council’s Chief
gardeners, teachers or security guards working on
Executive, commented: “We applaud the
busy roads.
Government’s ambition to reduce emissions
The British Safety Council says the Government’s further, but this must be backed up by concrete
target will only be met if it is underpinned by policies and actions to achieve this ambition. The
tangible actions to deliver its ambition. Such UK is currently slipping behind its existing targets
actions include the Government adopting the and is now planning greater cuts in emissions.
World Health Organisation’s (WHO) air pollution
“There is an early opportunity for the Government
targets, allowing electric only cars in cities from
to put its words into action by adopting the WHO
2030 and improving air quality measurement
air pollution targets as part of the Environment Bill
across the UK.
currently progressing through Parliament. Taking
These measures should be part of the
the bull by the horns now will mean cleaner air in
Government’s efforts to address climate change, our cities and a healthier outdoor workforce. These
to improve public health and reduce the 40,000 are outcomes we all want to see.”
SUPAFIL RANGE AWARDED DECLARE ‘RED LIST FREE’ LABEL
Knauf Insulation’s Supafil range has become
the first blowing wool solution in Europe to be
awarded the DECLARE ‘Red List Free’ label.
way. For architects and housebuilders, using
products with the DECLARE label – like the Supafil
range – is good for business. It ensures installer
“DECLARE labels are a proof point for customers,
but architects, housebuilders and installers can
also use them to verify their own sustainability and
wellbeing and is a powerful point of difference to health and safety credentials” continued Prowse.
The scheme brings transparency to sustainability
customers in a competitive market.”
“For example, it contributes to green building rating
claims by detailing where a product comes from,
systems such as LEED. This means you can use
what it is made of and where it goes at the end of The DECLARE label presents a straightforward
the Supafil range to deliver buildings that are
its life. It also certifies that an agreed list of ingredient list, similar to the food nutrition labels
proven to be healthy and good for the
harmful chemicals is not present in the product. people are familiar with. It also shows other
environment.”
important details such as product life expectancy,
“DECLARE labels are new in the UK, but they’re
end of life options and whether it contains To achieve the DECLARE label, Knauf Insulation
poised to make a big difference to the housing
chemicals featured on the DECLARE Red List. has disclosed the entire composition of its Supafil
industry” said Matt Prowse of Knauf Insulation.
These are substances designated as harmful to products down to 0.01%. The blowing wool range
“For the first time, people can see the
health and the environment by the International is created from up to 80% recycled glass with the
environmental impact of individual construction
Living Future Institute, including alkylphenols, remaining percentage composed entirely from Red
products at a glance, in a clear and transparent
phthalates and toxic heavy metals.
List Free raw materials.
12 TC JANUARY 2021

“THE LIKELIHOOD OF MATERIAL SHORTAGES IMPROVING IS REMOTE”
Stuart King, Crest’s Deputy Managing Director,
discusses the current issues around supply of
roofing materials and explains how with their
factories having available stock and excellent
lead times, Crest has been able to support
merchants and distributors through this
difficult period for supply.
“It’s been well documented over the past few
months that the UK is facing a roofing materials
shortage. Many contractors are calling it a major
crisis as they face long delays in obtaining roofing
materials – the situation is desperate and with
Winter here, pressure is mounting.
“Concrete roofing tiles seem to be one of the most
affected with lead times from order to delivery
being at least 12 weeks and, in many cases, up to
22. It’s the last thing roofers need at this moment,
as they are still making up for lost time due to a
busy Summer and lockdown restrictions.
“At Crest Nelskamp we are one of the UK’s leading
suppliers of high-quality roofing tiles and we have
been actively increasing the supply to merchants,
distributors and housebuilders to help remove the
tremendous pressure they all face. We have ample
production capacity and the ability to manufacture
more roof tiles to further help the supply chain.
“During the first lockdown in March, Crest’s
European manufacturing partners Nelskamp
maintained their production with Covid guidelines
in place and official guidance from the German
government, unlike many manufacturers in the
UK, who were unable to produce and build up
stocks at this time.
“Our range of roof tiles are specially crafted and
engineered by Nelskamp, with six modern
production facilities strategically positioned across
the country. Crest Nelskamp roof tiles are
recognised for their use of high-quality robust
materials and proven manufacturing techniques.
“With stock on the ground waiting to be
despatched from our factories and the increase to
our transport and logistics operation to cope with
the extra demand, we are working hard to keep
delivery times as short as possible.
With available stock we continue to push the
boundaries in terms of supplying innovative, high
quality engineered roofing tiles that have excellent
technical properties, all of which are guaranteed
for a minimum of 30 Years.
“Most of our tiles have been carefully designed to
reduce both labour and material costs as well as
completion times, without sacrificing the quality
and overall aesthetics and appearance of the roof
which is obviously important to planning and
environmental needs.
“With the rapid rise in infections attributed to the
rapid spread of a new variant of COVID-19,
tougher restrictions have been introduced for
London, large parts of the South East and East of
England, and with most parts of the UK in the very
high alert tier 3 Covid restrictions, the likelihood of
material shortages improving is remote.
“UK-based raw materials are under severe
pressure, and this will have a knock-on result
across the whole of the supply chain with most
issues appearing spring/summer next year.”
CITB ‘TO EXPAND APPRENTICESHIP SUPPORT’
CITB has announced all levy-registered
construction employers will be eligible to
benefit from an expanded CITB
apprenticeships support service, which it says
will be phased in throughout 2021.
At present, CITB says it offers employer and
apprentice support for 7,000 contracted
apprenticeships, about a third of the total
marketplace.
Under the plans, CITB will offer a support service
to all employers with apprentices, on an employer
demand-led basis.
To facilitate this, CITB says it will migrate direct,
funded delivery of apprenticeships in England to
existing providers. While funded apprenticeship
support will continue in Scotland and Wales, CITB
says the demand-led, wider offer will also apply
in those nations. Support for employers will
include help accessing grants; choosing the right
apprenticeship standard and the right training
provider; guidance through the Government’s
online apprenticeships system; and building
partnerships with colleges and training providers.
CITB has stated it will also continue to offer some
recruitment services to employers who recruit
large numbers of apprentices each year, along
with advice, guidance and support materials for
all employers
For apprentices, CITB says it will provide local
data-driven careers advice, matching applicants
to vacancies; and e-learning, supporting Maths
and English. Direct contact with apprentices will
be employer-driven but CITB will continue to offer
support, at an employer’s request, particularly for
those with educational and social needs or who
are at risk of leaving.
Deborah Madden of CITB said: “Apprenticeships
are central to the way industry trains the workforce
it needs for the future, and we know that employers
value the support we provide, particularly smaller
firms. In 2017 the Government and industry made
clear that the way CITB provided services had to
change, and these changes deliver on that
commitment. The aim is to make it as easy as
possible for construction employers, particularly
SMEs, to take on and manage apprentices, and to
improve the chances of those young people
achieving their qualification.”
JANUARY 2021 TC 13

Made for Trade
Driving forward in to 2021
Made for Trade complete
investment in enhanced
safety delivery fleet
Made for Trade have announced a significant long-term
investment in the expansion of their fleet of delivery
vehicles. Each of the 10 new vehicles also comes equipped
with another MFT design innovation, changing the way
their products are handled both at the factory and also at
delivery sites, the new design significantly decreases risk
and puts safety of their employees first.
MFT’s announcement, along with other news of their product
expansion is a strong indication of their industry position and
growth plans throughout 2020-2021 and beyond.
“For some time, we have been looking at the handling
challenges presented by the loading and unloading of large
heavy products from our wagons and we had some good
design ideas of what we wanted to achieve. With sales
dictating a need for more wagons to satisfy increasing
delivery requirements we took the opportunity to kill 2 birds
with one stone and had a custom fleet developed with local
vehicle suppliers. We think this is a first in fenestration and
is a significant step forward in transport safety.” Chris Wann.
Business Manager.
2020 has been a tough year for many businesses within
the fenestration industry and some of the industry heavy
hitters are either gone or have been significantly reshaped.
Thankfully, it has not all been doom and gloom and there are
many winners as a market driven by home improvements
went stratospheric. With ongoing investment in new vehicles,
additional staff and the expansion of their delivery coverage,
Made for Trade really do mean business as they enter 2021 in
a strong position with some exciting new developments on
the brink of release into the market.
FLEET IMPROVEMENTS
The new 12-tonne Rollaflex vehicles have been commissioned
from a local vehicle supplier with the functional design
concept provided by the engineering team at MFT. The brief
was to come up with a cost-effective loading and unloading
solution which minimised the risks associated with manual
lifting and provided a safe means of working at a height.
Health and safety is one of MFT’s top priorities when it
comes to the welfare of their staff and the safe delivery of
their products.
depending on the style of door. Once all stillages are full,
the wagons move into the loading positions, the retractable
curtain is drawn back, and the stillage is moved by forklift
onto the wagon bed and locked into place.
Once at the customers site, the driver conducts a risk
assessment, cordons off the area and uses an articulated
crane mounted to the vehicle bed for the safe and secure
unloading of the door from the wagon to the ground in
readiness for the customer to collect. The new design
ensures that manual lifting of the doors is eliminated and
that the operator is always safe, even when working from the
unprotected wagon sides to attach the crane hook to the
slings via a retractable barrier.
DELIVERY COVERAGE EXPANSION
The addition of more vehicles to the fleet also allows MFT to
increase their delivery coverage area to include several new
postcodes in Scotland. This move, the implementation of the
first phase of a larger growth plan, cements the company’s
intention to provide their top class service to customers
that had previously struggled to obtain MFT door products
alongside the Korniche lantern roof which is delivered
nationwide.
For more updates on this news, new product releases and
to see how MFT provide the BEST PRODUCTS, at the
BEST PRICES with the BEST SERVICE, head over to www.
madefortrade.co and register online to receive regular emails.
We would also like to take this opportunity to say a big
thanks to all our customers in what has been a turbulent
2020. Your loyalty has contributed entirely to our great
sales volume, which in turn allows us to maintain the level of
investment needed to improve service and expand our trade
product range available to you, our customers.
With these improvements to our service and 2 new products
ready for launch in the new year, here’s hoping for a
smoother journey in 2021
www.madefortrade.co
The logistics cycle starts off with the doors being moved
from coded dispatch racks and loaded onto specially made
stillages at floor level. As each door is placed onto the stillage
a set of soft slings are fitted to predetermined safe positions

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NFRC Roofing Focus
STRAIGHT FROM THE PLAYBOOK:
THE HOWS & WHYS OF THE NEW WAY
James Talman, Chief Executive of NFRC, says the government has set out their direction of
travel in the Construction Playbook – and roofing contractors should take note...
The last few months have seen a flurry of
government policy papers, consultations
and announcements. Amongst all of this
noise was the launch of the Construction
Playbook. You may have missed this, and with so
much going on, I can’t blame you, but this could
be one of the most transformative policies our
industry has seen in recent times.
There have been many reports over the years
saying how the industry should change, but the
Playbook actually sets out a framework of how it
will change the industry, starting with
themselves.
So, what is the Construction Playbook?
The Construction Playbook is a guidance
document from the Cabinet Office. It
is radical in what it attempts to do
– to overhaul the way
government procures
construction projects, moving
away from a focus on cost to
whole life value. So rather than giving
projects to the lowest bidder, it will take a
more holistic look including things like health and
safety, carbon emissions and social value.
Ultimately, as the industry’s biggest client, it
wants to help transform the sector to become
more sustainable, profitable and safer, and
through this achieve better, faster and greener
delivery. It will reward contractors who meet
these policies by giving them work and punish
Left: James Talman, NFRC Chief Executive.
“While the
Playbook is
aimed at those
commissioning
the work, its
principles and
policies will have
ripple effects down the
whole supply chain”
those who don’t by not allocating them bids. They
essentially hope to create a market based on
value rather than cost.
Continued on page 18

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JANUARY 2021 TC 17

NFRC Roofing Focus
Continued from page16
Who will this apply to?
This will apply to any construction projects and
programmes commissioned by a central
government department or Arms Length Body
(ALB) – so that covers everything from hospitals
to schools, through to major infrastructure
projects. It will be enforced on a ‘comply-orexplain’
basis through spending controls –
essentially if a government department doesn’t
comply it could have financial consequences.
While the Playbook is aimed at those
commissioning the work (those in government
departments), its principles and policies will have
ripple effects down the whole supply chain. It is
ultimately the criteria public sector clients will be
using to choose which suppliers to work with. So,
if you are a specialist contractor or manufacturer
working on any public works, you need to know
about this.
“One of the complaints
specialists often make
is that they are brought
into a project far too
late – the Playbook
attempts to change
this”
So, what’s in it for our industry?
• Greater transparency of pipeline:
The Playbook sets out the government’s intention
to prepare, maintain and publish comprehensive
pipelines of current and future government
contracts and commercial activity – indeed, it
even states that this is one of the most important
things they can do as a government. They hope
this will give contractors greater certainty by
helping them to understand future demand, and
perhaps through this achieve a more diverse
supply chain including more Small and Medium-
Sized companies (SMEs). The government has
already made a start on this with its
Infrastructure and Construction Pipeline
“So what do they expect in return from industry?
In essence, safer working practices, more
innovation, greater use of digital, demonstration
of social value and environmental sustainability”
published earlier this year, but plans to produce
similar pipelines in the future.
• Earlier industry engagement:
One of the complaints specialists often make is
that they are brought into a project far too late,
sometimes only with a few weeks’ notice. The
Playbook attempts to change this by engaging the
supply chain earlier in a project to mitigate risks
and access the industry’s expert knowledge and
experience at all tiers in the supply chain early.
The Playbook recommends that Tier-2 and Tier-3
sub-contractors and suppliers should be formally
engaged at pre-construction phase to input into
the design, costing, risk management and
structuring of a project.
• Fairer risk allocation and payment terms:
The Playbook highlights the importance of an
equitable and consistent allocation of risk. It
recommends that risks should be allocated in
the supply chain by taking into account both the
practical capability and financial capacity to
manage and absorb any risks, should they
occur.
Linked to this is having fair pricing and payment
mechanisms. In a rare admission of guilt, the
government state that ‘there are many examples
where we [the government] have mandated
unreasonable payment mechanisms, applied
unreasonable terms and conditions and/or
sought unsustainable cost reductions’. It then
goes on to state clearly that a fundamental
principle of the Playbook is that contracts
should be profitable. Referring to payment
specifically it says that contracting authorities
‘should always pay their supply chain promptly’
and that payment should be linked to delivery on
outputs.
What do government expect in return?
The Playbook is described as a ‘compact’ with
industry – it’s a two-way relationship. So what
do they expect in return from industry? In
essence, safer working practices, more
innovation, greater use of digital, demonstration
of social value and environmental sustainability.
Pages 76-77 set out what the supply chain
should do to adopt the framework, so roofing and
cladding contractors should be looking at how
they can embed these into their own policies and
procedures, if they are not already.
Big endorsement for construction
One of the few silver linings of the last year has
been how construction has come together and
gained some real clout with government. This
Playbook is one of the outcomes of this – with big
endorsements for our industry from none other
than the Chief Operating Officer for the Civil
Service, himself, in the introduction to the
Playbook.
“It’s now time for the
industry to show the
government in return
that it is up to the
challenge”
There will be up to £37 billion worth of contracts
being brought to the market for economic and
social infrastructure by the UK government over
the next year, and it will be procured through this
Playbook. It’s now time for the industry to show
the government in return that it is up to the
challenge.
Contact NFRC
www.nfrc.co.uk
@TheNFRC
18 TC JANUARY 2021

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Key Questions: Tapered Systems
YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED...
IMA members Simon Blackham, Technical Manager at Recticel Insulation and Richard
Clennell, Product Manager at Bauder, offer some insight into the benefits and considerations
that contractors need to be aware of before deciding to install a tapered roofing system.
Q: What are the key advantages of a tapered
roof system over other roofing systems such
as cement screed roof solutions?
SB: It’s essentially two solutions in one as you
are able to install falls in accordance with
BS6229 and insulate the roof in accordance with
Part L of Building Regulations.
RC: Another key advantage of a tapered system
is that it is suitable for use with differing roofing
systems such as bitumen, single-ply and cold
liquids. It can be incorporated within the warm
roof construction of a new-build or refurbishment
flat roof system.
SB: We should also point that it has good
compressive strength to resist physical damage
and offers flexibility to re-direct falls and create
complex configurations with multi-directional
falls.
Q: What are some of the issues to consider
when designing insulation for flat roofs?
SB: It’s important to consider the outlet position
and the direction you’d like the water to go in, as
well as the height of upstands if you have a long
fall and therefore a higher starting depth of
insulation. Depending on the waterproofing
system being chosen, roof accessories such as
crickets, rooflight deflectors, insulated upstands
and angle filets can be included as part of the
insulation system. Care should be taken to
ensure the correct insulation facer type is chosen
for the correct waterproofing system.
RC: The design should also ensure the minimum
U-value requirements are met (0.35W/m²K) and
falls in gutters are created to avoid standing
water.
Q: Can you explain why fall
calculations are such a critical
element of the roofing design?
SB: Ponding water can damage
the roof structure, is a risk due to
freezing and is unsightly as it
attracts debris that will stain the roof.
Contactors should install a compliant
roof drainage solution with falls that
comply to code of good practice
and design guidance directives
from the likes of SPRA (Single
Ply Roofing Association), NHBC
and LABC.
RC: Improving drainage falls so that flat
roofs can shed water is key. Our tapered
insulation is designed to be laid on a ‘flat’ deck
with no hollows or back-falls.
Q: Are there height or drainage limitations
with tapered roofing systems?
RC: As long as details are discussed prior to
ordering the scheme, then the tapered design can
be adapted to try and overcome upstand height
issues. Refurbishment can be an issue where
they cannot remove an existing object such as
clerestory windows.
SB: I agree, it depends on the roof more than
anything. If there are door or window thresholds
involved this can complicate the design.
RC: We will always try and come up with a design
that causes the least impact to the drainage and
thermal value.
Q: How can tapered insulation solutions aid
compliance with Building Regs?
SB: Compliance with Part L of Building
Left: Simon Blackham – Recticel Insulation
and below, Richard Clennell – Bauder.
Regulations is “designed in”
while also installing a compliant
roof drainage solution.
RC: Schemes should be designed
with high thermal efficiency to hit or
exceed the target U-values required. To
conform to Building Regulations,
systems should be tested to BS
EN 13501-5 and granted
Broof(t4). With fire spread an
important factor in roof design,
this Broof(t4) certification is the
highest performance European fire
rating for a flat roof system.
Q: How does tapered insulation reduce
installation time?
RC: Tapered insulation can be retro-fitted as part
of the waterproofing system during the
refurbishment of a flat roof where drainage falls
are insufficient.
SB: There are schemes that come in pre-bonded
sections. This means installers can install
increased depths of insulation with only one on
site bond. Schemes can also come in multilayered
designs which will reduce the cost of the
scheme. Designed schemes reduce the time
installers need to apply the insulation and stops
them having to cut their own mitres and valley
details. Off-site production ensures consistent
high quality insulation schemes.
Contact IMA / Recticel / Bauder
insulationmanufacturers.org.uk
recticelinsulation.com / bauder.co.uk
20 TC JANUARY 2021

Perfectly Pitched
CASE STUDY: PREVENTING LEAKS
AROUND DORMER WINDOWS
In the latest instalment of his excellent Consultant Case Study series of articles, John
Mercer tackles the tricky issue of leaks around dormer windows, and explains how he
addressed problems on a recent residential project he was called out to assess.
The importance of careful detailing around
roof features such as dormer windows can
sometimes be overlooked when it comes to
weathering the junctions with the main roof tiling.
Dormer windows with pitched roofs usually have
valleys behind them, gutters to capture the water
from the dormer roof, and side abutments.
I carried out a roof inspection on a dwelling
recently where the roof was leaking badly around
the dormer windows. The roof has a rafter pitch
of 30 degrees and is tiled in large format flat
interlocking concrete roof tiles. The dormers have
pitched roofs and are positioned
mid-slope in the main roof at
the front and rear of the
house. There are valleys
where the dormer roof slopes
intersect with the main roof
and the side abutments are
weathered with lead cover
flashings which extend approximately
200mm over the tiling. There are gutters each
side of the dormer roof slopes.
Rainwater from the main roof directly above the
John Mercer, pitched roofing consultant.
dormers is draining into the
valleys behind the dormers.
Water from the dormer roofs
is draining into the valleys
and into the gutters at each
side. The valleys are draining
water back onto the main roof slopes
at each side of the dormers. The water from
the gutters is also draining onto the main roof
slopes at the same points as the valleys. This
means that water is being drained in point loads
22 TC JANUARY 2021

onto the tiling directly above the dormer side
abutments.
Although the gutter outlets face away from the
side abutments, the water simply spreads out as
it runs down the tiles and much of it passes
under the flashings. Cover flashings over flat
interlocking tiles are not an efficient way to
weather side abutments as water can easily
penetrate between the tiles and the flashing. In
the case of this roof, the abutment flashings are
wholly inadequate.
This roof is 30 years old and the leaks started
about five years ago. An internal inspection
revealed that the underlay, which was correctly
turned up the wall under the abutment flashings,
managed to prevent water from entering the roof
structure until it eventually rotted and is now
largely disintegrated.
Careful design could reduce the volume of water
running into the abutments. For example, the
gutter outlets could be positioned at the front end
of the dormers rather at the rear, as they are
here. The front face of each dormer is close to the
main roof gutters; therefore the dormer gutters
could drain directly into the main roof gutters.
Also, the lead at the lower end of each valley
could be extended to shed further away from the
dormer sides to avoid so much water from
entering the abutment flashings.
Diagram 1: Flat tile flashing with secret gutter.
Most importantly, the side abutment flashings
need to be installed correctly. Water can
penetrate between the tiles and the flashing
because there are no profiles in the tiles – for
“Minimise the volume
of water being shed in
point loads directly
above the dormer side
abutments. Extend
valleys to shed further
away from the dormer
sides”
example pans or rolls – to stop the water. It is not
possible to use lead soakers with single lapped
tiles, therefore the standard detail is to use a
continuous ‘secret’ gutter, as shown in Diagram
1. These can be either formed in lead on site or
manufactured pre-formed in suitable materials
such as fibreglass.
The gutter is installed under the tiles close to the
wall to capture and drain away water that runs
sideways off the tiles. The gutter lining extends up
the dormer side by at least 75mm above the top
surface of the tiles and is covered by a step
flashing. The tiling is finished close to the dormer
side, i.e. with a gap of no more than 15mm wide,
to prevent access to birds and rodents. A cover
flashing is usually installed in addition to the
secret gutter to prevent the risk of debris such as
leaves and pine needles etc. entering and
blocking the secret gutter. A further option is to
use pre-formed individual soakers, though advice
on their use should be sought from the
manufacturer.
Profiled tiles, such as roman or pantile shapes,
do not suffer the same problems at side
abutments. The flashing can be a simple cover
flashing which extends over the tiling tiles by at
least 150mm. It must also extend over a
complete tile roll or upstand; therefore, if
necessary, the flashing may need to be wider to
achieve this. The roll or upstand in the tile profile
prevents water from running sideways between
the tile and flashing and leaking into the building.
A cover flashing is installed over the tiles and
extends up the dormer side by at least 75mm.
The flashing upstand can either turn into the wall
Diagram 2: Profiled tile cover flashing.
or be covered by an additional separate step
flashing that overlaps the upstand of the cover
flashing by at least 65mm and turns into the
wall. In the case of dormer sides, the upstand of
the flashing will usually be covered by the dormer
cladding.
“Always use either
secret gutters or
preformed soakers at
side abutments with
single lapped flat
interlocking tiles”
Contact John Mercer
www.johnmercerconsultant.co.uk
@Johnmercer3
Summary:
• Minimise the volume of water being
shed in point loads directly above the
dormer side abutments. Extend valleys to
shed further away from the dormer
sides.
• Do not drain water from the dormer
gutters directly above the side
abutments.
• Always use either secret gutters or
preformed soakers at side abutments
with single lapped flat interlocking tiles.
• Only use cover flashings without secret
gutters with profiled tiles.
JANUARY 2021 TC 23

Solar Surge
GETTING STARTED WITH SOLAR
With demand for renewables set to soar over the next few years, Stuart Nicholson, Roof
Systems Director at Marley, says it has never been easier for contractors to add solar PV
to their offering.
The potential introduction of the Future Homes Standard and strict targets for net zero
carbon means the demand for renewables, such as solar PV, is growing rapidly. While
making the first step to offer solar PV to customers may seem daunting, it can
actually be quite a straightforward way for roofing contractors to expand their business and
add revenue, particularly with the development of easy-to-install integrated solar tiles.
To help contractors, we have put together a quick guide to getting started with solar:
1Becoming certified as a solar installer
MCS certification covers installations of
products used to produce electricity and
heat from renewable sources, including solar. You
don’t have to be certified to install some
integrated PV systems, such as our Marley
SolarTile, but it is required to make the final
electrical connection and do the sign off.
Therefore, you can either form a partnership with
a certified electrical contractor or become MCS
certified yourself to help differentiate your
business. To apply, you will need to get the
appropriate training for solar PV connection and
apply to a certification body to arrange
assessment. More information can be found at
Becoming certified - MCS (mcscertified.com).
2Selling solar to customers Growing
consumer concern about cutting energy
costs and reducing their own carbon
footprint is leading to renewed interest in
domestic solar technology. A typical home PV
system can produce around 40% of the electricity
a household uses in a year, as well as reducing
carbon emissions by between 1.3 and 1.6 tonnes
per annum.
For more specific data to help when selling solar,
you can refer to the solar energy calculator on the
Energy Saving Trust website. This provides
estimated savings on energy bills and the
financial payments your customers could receive
by installing solar panels. It will give an estimate
based on specific client information – such as
postcode, roof pitch and direction etc.
You can also talk to homeowners about the
different solar options that are now available –
see below.
3Choosing a solar product There are two
main options when it comes to solar PV –
panels on top of the roof covering, or
panels that are integrated into the roof tiles.
These discreet, roof integrated PV systems are
becoming more popular for aesthetic, planning
and house resale reasons.
Our new Marley SolarTile has been designed to
make PV installation easy for contractors. The
sleek, low profile panels can be integrated with
any of our roof tiles or slates, so you can subtly
incorporate solar tiles into any roof design – even
handmade clay. It is easy to install, with an
integrated tray so no counter battens are required
and it has a simple push together design.
Electrical connection can be done once the roofer
has finished installing the panels, so it doesn’t
hold up the job. It is fully compatible with the
Marley full roof system and is covered by the 15-
year system warranty.
4Estimates One of the first questions we
get asked is, how do I know how many
solar tiles to install? Estimating is quite a
simple process, as our online configurator builds
an array of panels for you. All you need to do is fill
in the grid to place the panels in position and the
“SolarTile
has been
designed to
make PV
installation easy
for contractors”
system works out which flashing kits are needed
and produces a price. It even calculates the kWp
output, so you can easily achieve the required
performance. The configurator also shows the
flashing kit required by colour and when the
boxes are delivered, they are marked in the same
way, so you’ll know exactly which kits go where,
making installation quick and easy.
5Low pitch energy savings The advantage
of our Marley SolarTile is that it can be
used with any of our roof tiles and slates,
down to low pitches of just 20 degrees. So if
you’re working on a low pitch extension project,
you can integrate solar tiles with clay interlocking
tiles, such as our Lincoln and Eden pantiles, to
get a rustic traditional clay appearance and the
homeowner can save on energy bills at the same
time.
6Free training and support To help
contractors make the most of solar PV
opportunities and gain confidence in
installation, Marley will be running free training
courses throughout 2021. For more information,
technical support or to view demonstration
videos, visit www.marley.co.uk/solarinstall.
Contact Marley
01283 722588
www.marley.co.uk
@MarleyLtd
Stuart Nicholson, Marley.
24 TC JANUARY 2021

Comment
LOW PITCH ROOFING CAN BE A
HIGH POINT FOR 2021
Paul Duffy, Managing Director of Onduline Building Products, the lightweight roofing
systems specialist, predicts that low pitch roofing and ‘green’ solutions will be high on
the agenda for roofing contractors this year.
2020 was a year we will never forget; one
when lockdown led to slowdown and
changed the way we live and go about our
work.
For many, it meant closing the office and working
from home. But a roof cannot be built via video
conferencing.
Rightly, the government identified the
construction sector as essential in getting the
economy moving, and a number of important
announcements have given added impetus to this
strategy.
Changes in planning rules mean home owners
will be able to add two extra floors to their houses
without needing full planning permission. But
careful consideration will still need to be given to
the impact on neighbours and the appearance of
such an extension.
Low pitch demand
This revision of Permitted Development is sure to
lead to increased demand for low pitch roofing, as
architects and home owners seek to maximise
the habitable space available.
The ‘holy grail’ here is to make the pitch as low
as possible while retaining the integrity of the roof
structure so it remains weathertight.
For tiled roofs this can be achieved with a robust
underlay, such as the ISOLINE ONDUTILE system,
which is a sustainable ‘roof beneath a roof’
“It is a great
selling point
for roofing
contractors,
to be able to
tell the client
‘we can add
additional
habitable space
without harming the
visual environment’”
designed for beneath clay, slate or concrete tiles.
Here, the pitch can be as low as 12.5° for
interlocking concrete tiles, 17.5° for clay pantiles,
natural and fibre cement slates, and 22.5° for
plain double lap tiles.
It is a great selling point for roofing contractors, to
be able to tell the client ‘we can add additional
habitable space without harming the visual
environment’.
This is an area we plan to invest further in during
2021.
Green momentum
Sustainability will again be a big focus, and while
not directly related to roofing, the government’s
Green Homes Grant Scheme has given this issue
added momentum.
“While there will be challenges in 2021, we can
be confident of plenty of opportunities for
roofing contractors”
Left: Paul Duffy, MD at Onduline Building
Products.
ISOLINE roofing underlays also
meet this ‘green agenda’, as
the material is made of a
minimum 50% recycled
cellulose fibres, contain no
asbestos and do not release any
hazardous substances. Importantly,
they also have BBA certification.
One consequence of the pandemic has been that
people are spending more time in their gardens, a
trend we expect to continue. This has caused a lot
of home owners to spruce up their garden
buildings, but this has not been restricted to
sheds and pergolas.
The light weight, easy handling and quick
installation of bituminous corrugated sheeting has
seen an increase in interest in garden rooms as
home offices, with materials such as ONDULINE
CLASSIC being used as cladding for the walls as
well as on the roof. It’s also popular as an
innovative solution for architects looking to convert
structures such as old agricultural buildings into
holiday lets, or adding an extra floor to a redundant
workshop to turn it into a two-storey home.
Opportunities
So, while there will be challenges in 2021, we can
be confident of plenty of opportunities for roofing
contractors as the sector continues to show
resilience and an ability to innovate and adapt.
Contact Onduline Building Products
uk.onduline.com
@ondulineUK
26 TC JANUARY 2021

Pitched Roofing
WIDE-RANGING BENEFITS
Lewis Turnbull, Technical Manager for Ibstock Concrete’s Building Products division – which
includes the Forticrete brand – outlines the importance of successful supply chain
collaboration and sustained production levels of innovative building materials, such as large
format roof tiles, to support developers in meeting the increased level of demand for roofing
materials.
Arecent report by the NHBC highlighted that
new property registrations fell by more
than 20,000 in quarter two of 2020 due to
restrictions being implemented in response to the
COVID-19 pandemic. However, as lockdown
restrictions were eased, there was a significant
bounce back in quarter three for the industry as
COVID-19 safe sites were able to reopen,
resulting in the number of new home completions
rising to 33,440, just 4% below 2019 figures.
Whilst this increasing demand to pre-COVID 19
levels is positive for everyone involved in the
“One particular trend
that is growing in
popularity is the
installation of larger
format concrete roof
tiles”
construction industry, it has presented its own
challenges. For developers, one of the most
critical, aside from implementing stricter health
and hygiene measures on-site, has been
industry-wide product availability issues,
particularly as manufacturers themselves have
had to adapt to new ways of working to get
manufacturing levels back up to where they need
to be to meet this demand.
The good news is that this challenge is being met
head on, with the supply chain working extremely
hard, and in closer collaboration with developers
than they ever have before, to ensure the right
products are available, when they need them.
As demand for new housing continues to rise, we
are also seeing more and more housebuilders
looking to explore new methods of building,
combined with the specification of alternative
building products, to reduce build times and help
overcome the existing backlog, whilst also
minimising resource and material costs for future
developments.
Larger format concrete tiles
One particular trend that is growing in popularity
when it comes to the roof for instance, is the
installation of larger format concrete roof tiles,
which can successfully increase the rate of
building, without impacting the quality and
durability of the roof.
For instance, Forticrete’s wide format concrete
tile, SL8, offers a cost effective and easy to install
solution, which enables developers to reduce the
materials required on site by 20%. This is due to
only eight tiles being required per m², compared
to 10 traditional tiles per m².
Whilst this not only supports housebuilders in
minimising initial expenditure, it also facilitates a
reduction in resource and associated costs, as
the installation time is significantly reduced.
Large format concrete tiles also work to improve
the sustainability of the entire development, as
the level of waste products on site is significantly
reduced. This is achieved through the tiles’
innovative construction, which provides superior
strength to help reduce the frequency of
breakages on site, whilst also ensuring the
continued longevity and suitability of the roof.
Aesthetics count
However, it is important that durability and
efficiency doesn’t overtake aesthetics, as the
exterior of the property makes the first
impression. When specifying wide format
interlocking concrete tiles, developers can choose
products that are available in a range of colours
and feature a thin leading edge, replicating the
visual appeal of natural slate.
The SL8’s streamlined construction features two
nail holes and a thin leading edge, which provides
roofers with enhanced fixing flexibility when
interlocking the tiles, aiding quicker and easier
installation, without compromising on the overall
visual appeal.
Technical approach to materials
Whilst installing building materials such as large
format concrete tiles can improve the efficiency
of construction on site, developers should also
examine their specification and planning
processes to ensure the most proficient materials
and methods are being utilised for future

developments, in order to successfully meet
demand.
Manufacturers are actively aiding developers in
this process, with Forticrete’s team of technical
advisers working collaboratively with
housebuilders to identify the most efficient
building materials for future constructions, whilst
also ensuring existing project requirements are
fulfilled.
This includes the utilisation of resources such as
Forticrete’s online fixing specification system,
which enables developers to receive instant
information regarding the most suitable building
products, as and when they require it. Taking
advantage of supporting services such as this
enables housebuilders to streamline both the
initial design stages and the actual development
of the site.
As the industry progresses and becomes
accustomed to new COVID-secure methods of
construction, manufacturers are also adapting to
the ever-changing environment to support
“It is important that durability and efficiency doesn’t overtake aesthetics, as the exterior of the property makes the first impression.”
developers in achieving more proficient methods
of building, to successfully overcome previous
delays and facilitate current demand.
By choosing building products such as wide
format concrete roof tiles, developers can not only
increase the rate of construction, but
simultaneously minimise the level of expenditure
and resource required.
Contact Forticrete
01525 244900
https://www.forticrete.co.uk/book-a-cpd
@Forticrete
DEPENDABLE. DURABLE. GUARANTEED.
We’re here
to help you
get back up
to full speed
2021 promises better things. So, whatever you
need to help you design and build extension roofs,
unique GRP system, were here for you – just ask.
call us: 01327 701 930
email: sales@hambleside-danelaw.co.uk
www.dryseal.org | www.dryseal.ie
40+ YEARS OF ROOFING INNOVATION
JANUARY 2021 TC 29

Roofing & Waterproofing
TALES OF THE UNEXPECTED...
Justin Pitman, Sales Director at Proteus Waterproofing, discusses two projects which show
just how quickly even the best planning can go out of the window and why this when
experience and expertise must come to the fore...
Costs and the need to remain competitive
affect every part of the construction
industry and waterproofing is no
exception. It’s a simple fact of life that every
client expects and wants a “Rolls Royce” job, but
most are unwilling or unable to pay the going rate.
In spite of this, contractors strive to deliver
exceptional quality at all times, even when margins
are cut to the bone. This means going that extra
mile to deliver best practice on every contract – and
in many cases that also means being ready to deal
with the unexpected.
At Proteus we go to huge lengths to survey and
accurately report on every new project before
handing it over to one of our approved contractors.
We try to cover everything from thermal shock to
wind uplift and more, but it is the unseen problems
that are always hidden from view and are never
discovered until work starts that really test teams.
Every building has its own story and each one is in
its own way a tale of the unexpected. This is when
best practice really comes into its own and
contractors and suppliers with the experience and
ability to overcome unforeseen problems shine.
Case studies: adapting to challenges
Nothing is really typical as we can see from the two
projects that follow. The first features the House of
Detention in central London, which by the mid-19th
century was used as a holding prison for those
awaiting trial with an estimated 10,000 people a
year passing through its gates. The prison was
demolished in 1890, but an entire underground
section survived and lay undisturbed until the
bombs of the Blitz saw it reopened as an air-raid
shelter. After World War II it was again largely
forgotten until, in 1993, it became a museum and
remained as such until its closure in 1999.
When Proteus became involved,
together with its approved contractor
MJ Rooney Construction, it at first
seemed like a simple, straightforward
project to waterproof a car park that had
since been built over the old prison.
Such was the case until the old decking was
removed to reveal the roofs of the cells and the
short-term work which had been used to waterproof
them in earlier years. It was a tale of the
unexpected which turned into protecting a Grade 2
listed building still being extensively used for film
work and events. To make things more difficult, the
project was time sensitive and in a heavily
populated area meaning hot molten materials could
not be used. New concrete also had to be installed
to protect the ceilings within the barrel-vaulted cells
and these had to be quickly waterproofed.
Our exclusive Proteus Cold Melt system which can
be used to waterproof green concrete after just
three days was used to overcome the problem. This
meant that a permeable tarmac could be used to
finish the job which would allow water to drain
through to the waterproofing and not into the
building below.
Not so daunting, but equally challenging, was the
Maggie Centre at the Royal Marsden Hospital. The
new building, designed by A.B. Rogers Architects,
involved the use of some distinctive terracotta
bowls which were used as part of the cladding.
This meant that what first appeared to be a
straightforward waterproofing job on the roof by
contractor Rhino Exteriors was complicated by the
fact that a guard rail needed to be installed after the
membrane had been laid.
This tale of the unexpected involved the contractors
working closely with the cladding specialist to rewaterproof
around each guard rail following each
Left: Justin Pitman.
installation. Some would say
this is best practice, but I
prefer to think of it as
excellent back up and support
from a trusted and reputable
contractor.
“Because every
building has its own
story, you must always
expect the
unexpected”
It involved working closely with the design team to
ensure that the rainscreen cladding fixings and
waterproofing would work together and keep the
building watertight until the cladding was installed.
The systems used on this contract were our Pro
System Plus and Proteus Pro-Therm Thermal
Protection Board.
So, what really is best practice? In construction that
does mean keeping to the regulations to ensure that
materials are installed in the proper way with no
short cuts. But it really is a lot more than that and
ultimately comes down to the right experience and
expertise.
A competitive price will, of course, always remain
an issue, but as every roofing professional will tell
you – because every building has its own story,
you must always expect the unexpected – and
that is when best practice really comes into its
own.
Contact Proteus Waterproofing
www.proteuswaterproofing.co.uk
@Proteus_UK
30 TC JANUARY 2021

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e: sales@filon.co.uk
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www.filon.co.uk

Small Projects: EPDM Roofing
AN OPPORTUNITY TO OFFER A
LITTLE MORE TO YOUR CUSTOMERS
EPDM flat rubber roofing is fast and easy to apply and provides the opportunity for you to
offer additional services that your clients might be interested in – for instance, the creation of
an effective bike or log store. Rob Hunt, Training Instructor at Permaroof UK, explains how
to successfully complete this type of project.
1Let your rubber roof rest before
installing Complete the final
measurements and gather all your required
tools and materials.
An EPDM membrane will have sat in a particular
position for some time during packing and
delivery, which means it isn’t quite ready to
install straightaway.
Let your EPDM membrane rest for around 30
minutes before you begin the installation process
to allow creases to relax.
1
1
2Start by preparing the area You may not
realise it, but when it comes to applying a
rubber roof, one of the worst things you
can do is to try and install it on a roof deck that is
dirty and dusty.
Firstly, if you adhere the membrane to a roof that
isn’t clean, you are likely to end up with a bumpy
mess that you will want to do again. Secondly, the
adhesive used in rubber roofing isn’t going to
adhere reliably if the surface isn’t clear of dust or
debris.
Once everything is in place, give the surface a
good brush down with a soft household brush –
this should remove enough dust and oil or grease
spots to create the ideal surface to work with.
3Make sure it’s the right size If you have
used a calculation tool, you should find the
membrane fits with very little waste.
1. Left and below: Rest the EPDM and get your tools ready.
However, there’s still a chance you’re going to
need to trim some of it off in order to get it to the
right size.
3
3. Trim any excess.
4Time to apply your adhesive Firstly, fold
back one half of the membrane and apply
a water-based adhesive to the roof decking
with a nine-inch roller. Secondly, use Firestone
Bonding adhesive at the edges, which is much
stronger and will dry much more quickly. It should
be applied to the roof deck, as well as the
membrane itself, and allowed to go touch dry.
4. Apply edge adhesive.
4
32 TC JANUARY 2021

7
5
7
5. Secure the membrane: ‘Use a roller to push out any bubbles, and a push a penny roller to get into the corners and edges’.
“Double check you don’t have air bubbles trapped”
5Roll the membrane onto the roof deck
Make sure the membrane is laid evenly
and double check you don’t have air
bubbles trapped underneath. Use a wide-span
domestic broom with soft bristles to press down
the membrane, a roller to push out any bubbles,
and a push a penny roller to get into the corners
and edges to make them neater.
6Prepare to apply the edging Trim any
excess from the edges and apply a tape
adhesive to the edging.
6
7Secure the edging Neatly fold over the
edges, lay over the edging and secure
further with nails.
8Present the finished job A watertight
and effective bike or wood store that
your client will be over the moon with!
For further information on Permaroof UK or to
book onto one of its training courses visit:
www.permaroof.co.uk
8
7. Fold the edges and secure the trim.
Contact Permaroof UK
01773 608 839
www.permaroof.co.uk
@PermaroofUK
6. Trim any access from the edges and apply a tape adhesive.
JANUARY 2021 TC 33

Flat Roof Insulation
INSULATING EXISTING FLAT ROOFS
By Darren Smith, Site Support Manager at Building Innovation.
The winter months are a serious test for flat
roofs with freezing temperatures, driving
wind and plenty of rain, sleet and snow. All
of this means any problems with the roof are
likely to be exposed pretty quickly, leading to
leaks. If you are carrying out repair work on these
roofs, it’s a good idea to check if the roof is
insulated. If not, they can allow a lot of heat to
escape out of the home, bumping up the owner’s
energy bills. Flat and tapered roof system
designers can work with you to quickly identify
and supply a suitable system. In addition,
homeowners and landlords in England may also
be able to get a Green Homes Grant to cover most
of the cost of this work.
Qualifying for a Green Homes Grant
The Green Homes Grant scheme offers up to £5,000
covering two thirds of the cost of certain energy
efficiency measures (or £10,000 covering the full
cost of work for those on low income) on homes in
England. If the flat roof is currently uninsulated, the
owners should be able to put in an online grant
application. Once this is approved, TrustMark
certified installers can quote for the work.
The funding covers not only the cost of the
insulation, but also directly related work such as
fixing any issues with damp, the new
waterproofing membrane and the cost of
scaffolding. The scheme has now been extended
until the end of March 2022. More information
about the scheme and how to apply is available
at: https://www.simpleenergyadvice.org.uk
What to check before fitting insulation
Before installing any insulation on a flat roof, it is
important to fix any existing issues. These can
include:
• tears, holes or gaps in the roof waterproofing
system;
• blisters in the membrane surface (this means
moisture has gotten beneath);
“If the roof is leaking, it will usually be necessary
to strip off the existing membrane and to replace
any damaged sections of the roof decking or
timbers”
• missing or rotting facias; and
• signs of water ponding on the roof surface.
If the roof is leaking, it will usually be necessary
to strip off the existing membrane and to replace
any damaged sections of the roof decking or
timbers. If the roof surface is in decent condition,
then you can typically save yourself some time by
fitting the insulation directly above the existing
waterproofing layer. Either way, the roof should be
dry and in good condition before the installation
work starts.
Choosing insulation
Where possible, it is recommended that installers
use a ‘warm roof’ approach when insulating flat
roofs. This makes it simpler to ensure the
insulation is fitted continuously across the roof
and to avoid any issues with condensation.
There are plenty of insulation options now on the
market for warm flat roofs. One of the key
differences between them is their thermal
conductivity value (also known as lambda value).
The lower this value is, the better they are at
preventing heat loss meaning you can fit a
slimmer thickness of insulation. This is
particularly important in warm roofs as fitting
poorer performing materials can lead to a fairly
hefty roof depth.
For example, expanded polystyrene (EPS)
typically has a thermal conductivity of between
0.038-0.034 W/mK. In contrast, polyisocyanurate
(PIR) insulation can have a value as low as 0.021
W/mK. This should help to save a few millimetres
on the roof thickness without affecting the U-
value.
Working with experts
Specialist flat roof designers and suppliers can
help to take a lot of the hassle out of flat roof
repairs. They can carry out an initial survey of the
roof and identify the best and most cost-effective
insulation materials for your project. In cases
where the existing roof is draining poorly, they can
also design and supply tapered roof solutions
which combine insulation and a fall in a single
layer, streamlining the installation and helping
you to achieve excellent end results.
Contact Building innovation
www.building-innovation.co.uk
@BuildingInnov
34 TC JANUARY 2021

WE LOOK FORWARD
TO WELCOMING YOU
BACK TO FIT SHOW IN
2021 WHERE YOU WILL
BE ABLE TO SEE THE
BEST IN THE INDUSTRY,
TO BE THE BEST IN THE
BUSINESS

Roof Windows
TOP INSTALLATION TIPS FOR
DAKEA ROOF WINDOWS
Roof windows are in demand and make a great addition to any home. The team at Dakea
say they are there to support installers every step of the way on projects, and in this article
Paul Edwards, Area Sales Manager at Dakea, outlines the key considerations to make...
Q: Why are roof windows in such demand?
A: Natural light research shows that we all
benefit from spending time in spaces with natural
light. Daylight has a positive effect on our health,
production and happiness and this is a real pull
for home owners and building owners.
Fresh air: A good supply of oxygen improves
concentration, boosts energy levels and helps
people think more clearly.
Increased living space: Roof windows transform
any living space, giving people a place to work
from home, adding value to properties and
allowing residents to enjoy natural light and enjoy
the views outside.
Q: What should I look for in a roof
window?
A: Roof windows are a costly investment in any
property, whether it’s a new build or
refurbishment. Therefore, it’s important to
understand how to choose the best roof window
for each project:
Energy Efficiency: it’s vital that roof windows
are highly thermally efficient to reduce excess
heat loss – especially as a quarter of heat is said
to be lost through the roof. An inefficient roof
window will reduce the energy performance of a
building, lower the temperature, and create higher
energy bills. Therefore, it’s important to use
products that are well insulated with excellent U-
values – such as Dakea’s Ultima Energy and
Ultima range which have impressive values of
0.99 - 1.2 W/m²K
Noise Absorption: When choosing a roof window,
the level of sound insulation should be
considered. Research has shown that sounds as
low as 30 decibels (dB) can disturb sleep –
moderate rainfall can cause noise levels of 40 dB
to 55 dB and busy traffic can cause noise levels
of up to 70 dB.
Dakea Ultima Energy and Ultima windows have a
thicker, hardened outer pane, which is also
combined with an advanced, anti-noise cladding
system with noise-absorbing material, and a
double or triple pane incorporates two layers of
noise-reducing film.
Weather resistance: Windows are one of the
most vulnerable areas of a home. In the event of
strong winds, heavy debris can be lifted and
thrown into them, causing cracks and scratches,
or even shattering them.
With severe storms occurring more frequently in
Britain, it’s crucial to select a roof window for
your projects that has been tested to withstand
harsh weather conditions. For added safety, the
internal panes should be laminated so any shards
Paul Edwards, Area Sales Manager at Dakea.
will stay in place. Dakea windows also have a
lifetime guarantee for the external pane against
hail damage.
Guaranteed lifespan: Dakea has a 20-year
guarantee for its roof windows. This is due to the
rigorous testing process each product goes
through.
Q: How do I ensure the installation goes
smoothly?
A. Roof window installations can prove
challenging on many fronts; time, procedure and
36 TC JANUARY 2021

“Time, procedure and
the weather can all
hinder the project”
the weather can all hinder the project and lead to
installers spending more time and money on the
installation. Dakea’s roof windows are quick and
easy to install with our free installation
accessories included with our Ultima Energy,
Ultima, Better Energy and Better Safe ranges:
Dakea’s Roofing Underfelt Foil Collar speeds up
installation by reducing the need for cutting. It
ensures 100% water tightness as it’s made of
stretchable, highly tear-resistant polystyrene,
non-woven fabric with a vapour permeable
polyurethane coating from one piece with no
joints. It’s easy to fit and adjust and the squared
surface will help you cut straight too.
The Roofing Vapour Barrier Foil ensures proper
connection to the internal vapour barrier. The
welded rubber gaskets with pressure seals
guarantee quick installation resulting in a vapourfree
and airtight fit.
Our Insulation Foam Collar forms a sealing frame
around the window frame, restricting heat loss
and ensuring easier, faster and faultless
installation. The Foam Collar is pre-cut, so the
installation is limited to sticking on the adhesive
side, always ensuring the correct fit.
Q. Which flashing is the best for my project?
A. Dakea roof windows must be installed with our
original flashings, which are all easy and fast to
install, durable and come with a 20-year
guarantee. Our range includes:
Flush flashing for recessed installation of single
roof window into slate profile height 16mm
(2x8mm) and a roof pitch range of 20-90º.
Slate flashing is suitable for slates and flat
roofing, up to 16mm (2x8mm).
Universal flashing is the universal solution for high
tiles between 16-120mm. Great for high profile
tiles, flat slates, pantiles, corrugated roofing
sheets etc. Also available as a Combi flashing.
Dakea offer a 20-year guarantee on roof windows and
flashings.
Tile Flashing is suitable for tiles and profiled
materials between 16-50mm.
Standing Seam Flashing is made for installation
of windows in ‘click’ standing seam metal sheet.
Tile Flashing For Interlocking Flat Tiles ensures
aesthetic and watertight installation for
interlocking flat tiles between 16 and 50mm.
Plain Tile Flashing is for installation of roof
windows into plain tiles, with a profile height
28mm (2x14mm) max length 340mm and
suitable for a roof pitch of 25-90º.
Our Slate Flashing With One Piece Side Element is
suitable for slates and flat roofing up to 8mm
(max overall thickness is 16mm). It’s also
available as a Combi flashing.
FCX Combi Tile Flashing is applicable in roof pitch
range of 15-90º and suitable for interlocking flat
tiles between 16-50mm thickness and for roof
window horizontal distance of 120mm. This new
flashing is 100% watertight, easy to install and
weather and UV ray resistant. With no apron, it
ensures a perfect seal to flat roofing materials.
How to install flashing:
1. Remember the drainage gutter above the
window.
2. Fix the bottom flashing section to the frame.
3. Fit bottom sill cover, side flashing sections,
and side frame cladding cover parts.
4. Fit top casing cover part, fix it with the
provided screws, and fit the top flashing section.
5. Replace tiles.
6. Replace the sash in frame and you’re done!
Q. Where do I go for further help?
A. When you buy a Dakea roof window or accessory
we deliver more than just your order: we’re with
you every step of the way, from choosing the right
window, to helping you with installation and
aftercare. We’re so confident in the quality of our
windows we give you peace of mind with a 20-year
guarantee on our roof windows and flashings – and
two years on our blinds and accessories. Our
Dakea PROapp also offers professionals a loyalty
reward scheme and an easy option to register the
guarantee for our roof windows. No wonder we
have so many lasting working relationships with
homebuilders and installers.
We’ve also got a range of videos to help you.
Whether you’re a contractor, installer, roofer or a
tradesperson, Dakea knows your reputation
matters. That’s why we launched our Trade
Matters campaign to help, which includes three
downloadable tools to ‘boost the buzz’ around
your business.
We also offer free downloadable Trade Matters
guides to support tradespeople with tech which
includes guidance on how to use the latest sites,
apps and equipment, learning new skills online
and generating new business.
And remember...
Dakea worked hard throughout 2020 to support
suppliers and installers, and we will continue to
do so into 2021. We are always here to offer
technical and installation advice and are
continuously improving and innovating with some
new products coming soon.
Contact Dakea
www.dakea.co.uk
www.dakea.co.uk/trade-matters/
@dakea_uk
JANUARY 2021 TC 37

CERTIFIED NON-COMBUSTIBLE
6
a
QI ROCKFACE A2:
www.quantuminsulation.com

As we close the door on the first Pandemic to hit the World in 100
years, it almost seems strange to be reflecting back on the ongoing
impact of an event that happened on 14th June 2017. The Grenfell
Tower Tragedy was an event that shocked the world, leading to Dame
Judith Hackitt’s ‘Building a Better Future’ report, the Grenfell Tower
Inquiry, chaired by Sir Martin Moore-Bick, brought about a series
of changes to Approved Document B (ADB), the ongoing review of
Regulation 7 within ADB and updates to the requirements of insurers
such as the NHBC. The impacts have also led to some buildings
insurers requiring fire performance requirements above those of the
Building Regulations, and introduced the term ‘non-combustible’ into
construction speak.
But what does ‘non-combustible’ mean? From a regulatory/standards/
legal perspective it relates to an individual product being classified
as either A1 or A2-s1,d0 to BS EN 13501-1: 2018 Fire classification of
construction products and building elements. Classification using data
from reaction to fire tests. BS EN 13501-1: 2018 has many other ratings
for products but none of these ratings are classed as ‘non-combustible’.
For example, most flat roof insulation products achieve an E classification,
including some that achieve an A1 classification without a facing but
change to an E when a facing is applied.
So, we know what ‘non-combustible’ means, but where does
it apply and what products comply with these requirements
are obvious next questions. That is both simple and difficult to
answer from a roofing perspective as you can use ‘combustible’
products in some applications but not in others.
From a regulatory perspective insulations that achieve a Class E can be
used in roofs, roof terraces, enclosed balconies over heated space and
insulated walkways; but an insurer may make it part of the Employers
Requirements that a ‘non-combustible’ insulation is used, so always check
the ER’s closely. The reason the regulations allow combustible insulation
within a flat roof is because, unlike an external wall, the roof assembly is
tested as a constructed system rather than individual components. The
tested system is then classified as Broof(t4), Croof(t4), Droof(t4), Eroof(t4)
or Froof(t4) in accordance with BS EN 13501-5: 2016 Fire classification
of construction products and building elements. Classification using data
from external fire exposure to roofs tests. Subject to the distance to the
boundary a roofing system of the relevant classification can be installed.
This information can be found in Table 14.1 of Approved Documents B.
Combustible insulation boards cannot be used in applications that are
classed as Specified Attachments. Specified Attachments is another
new term for the roofing industry to come to terms with. It relates to
classifying specific types of construction as part of the external wall, and
most external wall components are required to be ‘non-combustible’.
From a roofing contractors perspective Specified Attachments are
projecting open balconies, projecting enclosed balconies, recessed open
balconies and/or recessed enclosed balconies. The definition of these is
covered in BS 8579: 2020 Guide to the design of balconies and terraces.
In any Specified Attachment application, the insulation board must be
non-combustible i.e. A1 or A2-s1,d0 to BS EN 13501-1: 2018. However,
the waterproofing membrane is exempt from this requirement under
Regulation 7 (3)(g) of Approved Document B.
So that solves that then, you can install a combustible insulation
such as PIR/EPS/XPS/VIP on a flat roof but you have to use Stonewool
or Cellular Glass on balconies to comply with the Building Regulations.
Well, not quite. Other than the potential insurers requirements there is
the matter of the insulation to the upstands to consider, and whilst that is
not currently clear in Approved Document B, the likely direction of travel
in the forthcoming clarification can be identified in the November 2020
edition of NHBC Technical Extra Issue 26.
Page 13 of Technical Extra Issue 26 provides guidance that follows the
Robust Details advice to eliminate the thermal bridge at the point where
the roof, balcony or terrace abuts an external wall by placing thermal
insulation against the wall and then waterproofing over it – a standard
detail for every roofing contractor in the country. Technical Extra Issue
26 advises that combustible thermal breaks are an exclusion under
Regulation 7(3)(i) but subject to some specific conditions such as:
• The abutment not being against a habituated space – meaning if the
wall forms part of the dwelling/apartment you cannot use combustible
insulation, you must use non-combustible insulation.
• The thermal break being no higher than 150mm above the finished
roof level/walking surface – meaning if your insulation will be more
than 150mm above finishes level it needs to be non-combustible.
• The thermal break insulation cannot be thicker than 60mm – meaning
that if your insulation will be more than 60mm thick it needs to be noncombustible.
• The combustible insulation cannot span across a compartment line –
meaning if it does your insulation will need to be non-combustible.
These are some twists and turns to the specification and installation
process that you need to ensure your site team/fitters are aware of
to ensure compliance. Sort of begs the question as to why it’s not just
made simple by saying you must use non-combustible insulation on
all upstands!
Also, this guidance is suggesting that you can use combustible
insulation on the vertical section of projecting open balconies,
projecting enclosed balconies, recessed open balconies and/or recessed
enclosed balconies but you have to use a non-combustible on the flat.
A strange twist of regulation if there ever was one.
At Quantum Insulation we work hard to keep up to date with all
regulatory changes, and particularly the ongoing situation with regards
to the fire regulations. We hope that comes through in this brief
overview of a complex subject that is affecting every roofing and cladding
company in the United Kingdom, and taking up many hours of roofing
sector Trade Associations such as NFRC, LRWA, SPRA and GRO. We believe
it is our role to be more than a traditional insulation distribution business.
We aim to work as an industry partner to our roofing contractor customers
and help them ensure their installations are compliant with regulations
and standards. Whether it’s technical advice, thermal calculations,
product certification, FORS deliveries, just in time deliveries, prestropped
insulation for speedy unloading or clarification on product
performance and suitability for application, we are here to help.
For more information about non-combustible
products from QI, contact: 01858 456018 or
email: sales@quantuminsulation.com
Approved Document B can be downloaded at https://assets.publishing.service.gov.
uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/937931/ADB_Vol1_
Dwellings_2019_edition_inc_2020_amendments.pdf
NHBC Technical Extra Issue 26 can be downloaded at https://www.nhbc.co.uk/binaries/
content/assets/nhbc/tech-extra/2020/technical-extra-november-2020-issue-26.pdf

New Roofing products Updates
M-TRAY RECOGNISED
Wallbarn’s M-Tray modular green roof
solution has scooped a win at the prestigious
Build It Awards 2020, with judges naming it
the ‘Best Roofing System or Product’.
The Build It Awards are said to be amongst the
most sought after accolades within the self-build
and renovation industry, recognising excellence
in products, services, suppliers and projects.
Build It Editor Chris Bates said the industry was
built upon ‘twin foundations’ of innovation and
unrivalled customer support and, even in these
exceptional times, those qualities shone through
TWO NEW ONLINE CPDS FROM CUPA
CUPA PIZARRAS is now hosting two online CPDs.
For further info on all these updates and more, visit www.total-contractor.co.uk
in this year’s ‘impressive’ shortlist.
Richard Bacon MP, who introduced the Self-build
and Custom Housebuilding Act 2015, announced
the winners during a virtual ceremony on
November 27th, with Wallbarn winning one of the
25 top awards. He said of M-Tray: “Green roofs
are growing in popularity, helping to reduce the
visual impact of a project and improving
biodiversity. This system makes installation easy
for any hands-on self-builder.”
Director Julian Thurbin said: “We are absolutely
over the moon with this award. We are so glad
Above: Wallbarn’s M-Tray modular green roof.
the panel saw the benefit to the self-build sector
in having an easy to carry and install green roof
solution. We want to say a big thank you to Chris
and the team for their very generous assessment
of what we have been trying to achieve.”
www.wallbarn.com
The first of the CPDs discusses the technical and design criteria for specifying slate, while the second covers the
benefits of using a natural slate rainscreen cladding system. Both are free to attend with tickets available via
eventbrite. The specification of natural slate CPD seminar covers the key design and technical factors that need CUPA PIZARRAS has launched two online CPDs
to be considered. The presentation explains the manufacturing process used by CUPA PIZARRAS, as well as the importance of traceability and testing.
Furthermore, the CPD discusses the classification of slate and the fixing methods available to ensure confidence when making a final product and
system selection. Available to attend each month, the natural slate rainscreen cladding system CPD provides an overview of the benefits of using
natural slate as a sustainable, non-combustible cladding system. The CPD also covers the production and application of natural slate cladding systems
from technical and practical viewpoints. In addition, the CUPA PIZARRAS team also explains the different fixing methods available and the importance of
choosing a BBA approved system. Terry Collins, Specification Manager at CUPA PIZARRAS, commented: “We have developed the online CPDs to ensure
specifiers can still access key information during the pandemic and for when they are working from home.” Visit the eventbrite page for further info:
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/cupa-pizarras-world-leader-in-natural-slate-29672279119
FLAT ROOF FIRE RISK ADDRESSED
With roofs maintaining their prominent role in contemporary building design, ROCKWOOL has released a
new whitepaper exploring how roofing contractors and specifiers can manage fire risk when planning and
installing flat roofs.
www.rockwool.co.uk.
The ‘Flat Roofs: Managing fire risk in the fifth façade’ report addresses misconceptions around testing protocols and material fire classification ratings,
plus examines the worrying rise in roof fires and the resulting social and economic impact. The whitepaper, which is available to download at
www.rockwool.co.uk/fifthfacade then outlines specification best practice for flat roof insulation and how to futureproof the complete building envelope
in line with expected changes to Building Regulations. “The role of the roof is an expanding one,” explains Paul Barrett, Head of Product Management at
ROCKWOOL. “While previously their primary function was practical, now we’re seeing roof spaces used as an additional communal or leisure space, as
well as to house solar PV, plant equipment and rainwater management systems. Yet as the function of the roof has expanded, the focus on fire protection
measures hasn’t increased at the same pace. This report explores the risks of exposed flat roofs, delves into the effects of recent prominent fires, and
then advises roofing contractors and specifiers on how to select materials that will help protect lives and the remaining building structure in case of fire.
It’s an essential read for anyone involved in roofing specification.”
40 TC JANUARY 2021

NEW HEIGHTS FOR KEYLITE
Over 60 Keylite Roof Windows have been
installed to new homes and flats in the Brooke
Close housing development in Margate.
The Roman Fields development, situated in the
village of Garlinge beside Brooke Avenue in
Margate, comprises 43 homes that come with
integrated kitchen appliances, a ten year
warranty, built-in wardrobes and parking.
Designed by architectural firm Urban Surveying
and Design and built by well-respected local
contractors PCR Projects, the development
required 60 Keylite Polar White PVC Centre Pivot,
Thermal Glazing Roof
Windows to be installed in
each of the houses, and two
Keylite White Painted Centre
Pivot, Thermal Glazing Roof
Windows, with Smoke
Ventilation Kits in each of the
blocks of flats.
Scott Ridgen, Managing Director at Urban
Surveying and Design Ltd said: “We are very
much a design-led practice and so the aesthetics
of Keylite Roof Windows really appealed to us,
The Keylite Roof Windows offer peace of mind for
the building contractor PCR Projects.
especially knowing how they
would sit on the roof lines and
create a point of differentiation
for this particular project.
“The fact that the windows
offered great quality at a
reasonable price-point was
also a great incentive for us.
We’ve actually gone ahead and specified more
Keylite Roof Windows for another project we are
currently working on, so it’s safe to say we are
very impressed.”www.keyliteroofwindows.com
FINANCIAL KNOW-HOW WITH DAKEA
Dakea has launched a downloadable factsheet to help installers and contractors sort out their finances.
The factsheet is part of the company’s monthly Trade Matters campaign. With many installers and contractors
having some downtime over winter, Dakea is keen to help installers and housebuilders make the most of it by getting
on top of their finances. Dakea says it has spoken to experts in the field to recommend eight steps will make all the
difference to anyone working in the industry who needs a bit of financial TLC… These are the areas that Dakea advise installers to look at: Working out
if you need to be VAT registered and the benefits of both registration and non-registration; Knowing which deadlines are vital and marking them on your
2021 calendar; How installers can find the right accountant to suit them and help them navigate HMRC successfully; Understanding capital assets and
which goods and services can be claimed back, plus other top tips to keep on top of your financial good health; Dakea also has a toolkit of easy-to-use
templates to help you keep track of mileage, cash flow and budgeting, as well as a template for invoicing customers as and advice on tackling late
payments. Andrew Birch, Dakea Regional Sales Manager, explained: “Dakea understand how tough 2020 has been for many of our installers, which is
why we’re here to help them with all aspects of their career. We’re happy that this free, downloadable guide will help them do all they need to get their
financial ducks in a row and in a good place to start working in 2021 and beyond.” www.dakea.co.uk/trade-matters/
COMMERCIAL SECTOR MOVE FOR PERMAROOF
Permaroof – the UK’s leading importer and distributor of Firestone RubberCover – is expanding into the
commercial sector.
Adrian Buttress, Permaroof Managing Director.
Building on its past experience of supplying rubber membranes to its customer base working on commercial
projects and its expansion into modular projects during the UK-wide lockdown this year, the business now
offers design, specification and installation on commercial projects using the proven and durable rubber
membrane Firestone RubberGard EPDM.
Adrian Buttress, Managing Director of Permaroof and the wider PermaGroup, said: “During our time specialising in domestic flat roofing projects, we’ve
proven ourselves in the residential sector and gained unrivalled expertise of the industry. After hitting our 20-year-old company milestone and with a
record year in 2020, we were ready to expand our offering.
“The next logical step was to use our knowledge and move into the commercial sector – further increasing our portfolio of providing permanent solutions
to age-old problems. Our vision is to become a leading commercial flat roofing supplier within just two years.” www.permaroof.co.uk
JANUARY 2021 TC 41

Rainscreen Subframes
UNDERSTANDING THERMAL
PERFORMANCE IN DESIGN & BUILD
More than ever, contractors need to be aware of how to construct buildings that are
sustainable and thermally efficient. Simon Fielden, Sales Director at SFS UK, discusses
what this means in terms of the design and build of rainscreen subframe systems.
The issue of climate change has been
bubbling away for almost two decades now,
but it truly is coming to a head following
some alarming figures which came out recently.
As reported by The Guardian, according to the
UN’s World Meteorological Organization, climateheating
gases have reached record levels in the
atmosphere. Scientists calculate that emissions
must fall by half by 2030 to give a good chance of
limiting global heating to 1.5ºC, beyond which
hundreds of millions of people will face more
heatwaves, droughts, floods and poverty.
With buildings accounting for a significant
percentage of emissions across the globe, the
need to reduce operational energy consumption
has never been greater. Badly insulated houses
experience 35% of heat loss through their walls
(Designing Buildings), and around 75% of an
industrial unit’s heat is lost through the building
fabric (Carbon Trust).
A further issue is the apparent performance gap
which may exist between the initial design and
subsequent construction, which could result in
underachievement when delivering the desired
thermal performance when the building is
operational.
Taking a detailed approach to U-values
This is where contractors and developers must
take a deep look into how the building will
perform thermally. ‘The devil lies in the detail’
idiom is apt here. On paper, it might seem easy to
“Contractors must pay
careful attention to the
selection of rainscreen
subframes”
achieve the desired thermal performance – U-
value of a façade. However, the requirement of
numerous rainscreen subframe components into
a design, such as brackets, can adversely affect
the insulation performance hugely.
U-values are often cited when thermal
performance is under consideration. Expressed as
W/m²K, this describes the rate of heat loss of a
façade. U-value attainment figures are prescribed
within Part L1 & L2 of the Building Regulations.
A well thought out building envelope, which has a
robust design and mitigates thermal bridging is
the most effective way to reduce heat loss.
Contractors must pay careful attention to the
selection of rainscreen subframes to produce the
appropriate and optimum level of thermal
performance.
By doing so, the thermal performance of both
commercial and domestic properties can be
increased considerably, without the need for
additional or thicker insulation. In many cases,
more insulation may not always be possible due
to additional cost implications and space or
footprint restraints of the building.
Thermal bridging – a leading cause of
heat loss
When under specified, subframe assemblies can
lead to excessive thermal cold bridging. Thermal
bridging happens when there is a thermally
conductive connection i.e. a rainscreen subframe
bracket, between the inside and outside of a
building which penetrates the insulation layer.
The additional heat loss caused by a thermal
bridge is called the ‘point thermal transmittance’
or ‘Chi’ value which is measured in (W/(m²K)).

This ‘bridge’ results in wasted heat transfer
across the connection, changing the internal
surface temperature. A side effect of thermal
bridging is condensation, as warm, damp internal
air is coming into contact with the cold surface,
causing further issues like mould growth.
Thermal bridging may be responsible for up to
30% of a dwelling’s heat loss, according to
research from BRE (Building Research
Establishment). To minimise these issues,
contractors must work with developers and
designers to ensure they have properly specified
the optimum brackets system.
In doing so, thermal bridging will be reduced, and
it will improve real-world U-value ratings while
prolonging the lifespan of the building.
Contractors can also inherently comply with Part
L 1A and 1B of the Building Regulations that
focus on the conservation of fuel and power in
both new and existing dwellings.
Superior performance, optimised thermal
solutions
The ideal thermal design for a project can be
achieved by the selection of the most appropriate
rainscreen support or subframe system. It should
be optimised for performance and budget.
Requirements for each rainscreen cladding
project are often different and depend on various
factors such as wind load, building height and
substrates used. Once these variables have been
determined, contractors should use 3D thermal
modelling to calculate thermal point loss from
rainscreen products’ datasheets.
From here, this modelling is utilised to
dynamically calculate the required insulation
thickness needed to achieve the desired U-value
for a design. Such calculations must conform to
EN 10211:2007.
SFS’ ‘Project Builder’ calculation tool is designed
to submit project specific data and provide an
NVELOPE subframe solution which includes
indicative m² rates and preliminary static
calculations.
At the heart of NVELOPE Thermal Solutions is a
high performing thermal pad which insulates the
bracket from the primary wall structure, created
to minimise thermal point loss. The unique design
guards against thermal degradation caused by
compression when fixed to the façade, ensuring
there is no loss in thermal performance.
A2 rated in accordance to BS EN 13501, the
thermal pad is highly insulating with a thermal
conductivity rate of only 0.015 W/mK. NVELOPE
Thermal Solutions comprises well-established
and understood brackets manufactured out of
aluminium, as well as a new stainless-steel
range, both of which can be used in conjunction
with the SFS thermal pad to offer a suite of
solutions to match budget and performance
requirements.
Changing the outlook on climate change
To slow down and reverse the effects of global
warming, the way buildings are designed and
constructed must change.
With smart thermal solutions and by choosing the
optimum combination of rainscreen subframes
and fixings, energy consumption of new and old
buildings can be reduced long term. Not only this,
but we can also ensure the building envelope is
built ‘right first time’, waste is minimised, and
projects run smoothly.
Contact SFS / NVELOPE
www.sfsintec.co.uk / www.nvelope.com
@SFSintec / @NVELOPE_UK
JANUARY 2021 TC 43

Cladding Fabrication
‘OUTSOURCING CUTS CLADDING
FABRICATION COSTS BY 50%’
A survey from Vivalda says the “off the pallet, straight onto the wall” ethos saves time, cost
and improves quality, with Hull Branch Manager Chris Meyerhoff saying he’d “urge any
contractors out there to reconsider this part of their supply chain”...
Research undertaken by Vivalda Group, the
UK’s largest supplier of non-combustible
cladding, suggests that sub-contractors
could reduce their fabrication costs by up to 50%
by outsourcing the process.
Vivalda contacted 15 specialist cladding
contractors across the UK and asked them to
provide their hourly rates for three specific
processes; standard board drilling, specialist
drilling, and fixing of brackets to boards. The
supplier says the differences between quoted
sub-contractor rates and those charged by
Vivalda were surprising. Below, Vivalda outlines
its key findings:
• Standard drill holes for rivet and screw fix:
Assuming 12 holes per m2, average subcontractor
labour rates quoted were up to 50%
higher than those charged by Vivalda.
• Specialist ‘secret fix’ drill holes: The price
difference between specialist off-site fabrication
and on-site labour rates quoted was equally
remarkable. Overall, prices quoted for this more
complex procedure were approximately 20%
higher compared to the cost of standard drilling.
Sub-contractor labour rates for this work came
out at approximately 40% more expensive when
compared to prices quoted by off-site, high
precision material engineers such as Vivalda.
• Fixing brackets / secret
fixings to board: This too
came out at around 35-
40% higher compared to
rates typically charged by
third party suppliers.
Major trend
Commenting on the findings,
Chris Meyerhoff, Branch
Manager at Vivalda’s Hull branch,
said: “We are seeing a major trend towards offsite
fabrication, with contractors increasingly
turning to us to cut boards to size, drill holes and
even fix brackets so that facades can be installed
as soon as they arrive on site. Despite the proven
cost savings and quality guarantees offered by
outsourcing, we wanted to understand why a
hardcore of contractors continue to do this job inhouse.
After all, it’s a notoriously timeconsuming
job that a lot of subbies don’t like
doing on-site. That’s why we undertook this
research into the relative costs quoted for this
activity.
“Given the very clear savings contractors could
make by outsourcing elements of their cladding
fabrication process, we have to ask why aren’t all
sub-contractors using third party specialists to
prepare boards ready for on-site installation? Is it
“We are seeing a major trend towards off-site
fabrication, with contractors increasingly
turning to us to cut boards to size, drill holes and
even fix brackets so that facades can be installed
as soon as they arrive on site”
Chris Meyerhoff, Vivalda’s Hull Branch
manager.
about control and quality?
With damaged and poorly
cut boards as the likely
outcome, I cannot
imagine this is a good
reason. Also, our use of
CNC technology ensures
boards are cut to within the
tightest tolerances, with brackets fixed
using the right tools in well lit, warm
surroundings, as opposed to rainswept, building
sites with restricted space and strict on-site
working regulations.
“Perhaps some sub-contractors don’t consider
the cost of fixings as being that significant? Well,
for a project comprising 5,000m² of cladding, our
investigation suggests that this could cost
anywhere from £300,000 to £600,000 in fixing
labour costs – depending on the location and
complexity of the project. That’s not chicken feed
in anyone’s book. I’d urge any contractors out
there to reconsider this part of their supply chain
as it could improve quality, reduce accidents and
boost profits in one fell swoop.”
Based on its recent survey, Vivalda Group says its
UK-wide fabrication facilities could save subcontractors
between 35 and 50% on labour
costs, while significantly improving the accuracy
and quality of the cladding systems prior to
installation.
Contact Vivalda
www.vivalda.co.uk
@VivaldaLimited
44 TC JANUARY 2021

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 Roofing Professionals
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.

Cladding & Sheeting Updates
INVESTMENT BENEFITS
MSP has invested £250,000 in new technology facilitated by parent company Vivalda Group, which
and improved facilities to meet increased also owns the Prism Powder Coating and Pura
demand for its services.
Facades brands.
Among its new acquisitions is a CNC-controlled Gillian Thomson, Branch Manager at MSP, said:
Mayer beam saw and a second Rainer Eletek turret “Prior to this investment we suffered from a bottle
punch. These machines will dramatically improve neck – as we had four brake presses that were
the plant’s capacity, enabling it to provide
being fed by a single turret punch. With our new
developers and contractors across the UK with a Rainer machine, this doubles our throughput, giving
wide range of non-flammable, bespoke façade us much more capacity. Our new CNC beam saw is
systems. New air filtration and dust extraction another vital investment as it enables us to
systems have also been installed to meet the accurately cut cladding board to length – a service
highest safety standards. The investment has been we also provide to our colleagues at sister company
Above: Gillian Thomson, Branch Manager at MSP.
Vivalda Scotland.”
In addition to this investment, MSP has bought an
additional fork lift truck to cope with increased
workload at the Cumbernauld facility. The
improvement programme has also included
significant changes to the factory’s layout,
improved lighting, office refits as well as structural
work on the building. www.vivalda.co.uk /
NEW BRICKCLAD BRICK RANGES LAUNCHED
SureClad patented ventilated façade systems has developed two innovative BrickClad brick ranges, with a unique
mechanical fixing system engineered and manufactured in-house.
Alongside its SureClad Ceramic Granite, Engineered Stone, Natural Stone and Terracotta façades, installed with the Queen’s
Award winning SureClad Access or Hang-on fixing systems, Shackerley now offers the Saxony and Rustic BrickClad
mechanically-fixed brick systems. Designed to provide increased choice and flexibility for specifiers, contractors and
developers from the trusted Shackerley brand, the new ranges provide an ideal solution for a lightweight and robust brick
façade that is faster and easier to install, while providing an authentic and durable traditional brick appearance. The Saxony BrickClad range is
manufactured using Westerwald clays, which are internationally renowned for their purity and only found in North West Germany. Monitored during
production in line with Shackerley’s strict ISO 9001-certified quality assurance commitment, the bricks in the Saxony BrickClad range are fired at
temperatures as high as 1260ºC. This irreversibly fuses the clay molecules to create impervious and extremely durable bricks for an attractive and
hardwearing façade. Manufactured using specially selected refined clays, chosen to ensure hardwearing and attractive brick facades, Rustic BrickClad
bricks are extruded through special dies to meet Shackerley’s high quality standards and offer a variety of brick colours and textures. www.shackerley.com
COPPER KEY TO VET SCHOOL EXTERIOR
Structural and civil engineering practice, JPG Group, has been appointed by Seddon to provide
consultancy services for a new 57,000ft² veterinary school at Keele University.
JPG is working alongside Jefferson Sheard Architects and Seddon to deliver the £16 million scheme for public
sector specialist developer Noviniti. The new campus-based Veterinary School will include teaching, lecture and
laboratory facilities to support the Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery degree programme. The building is to be used both by Keele University
and Harper Adams University, as a shared facility and is to be located on a cleared site within the existing grounds of Keele University Science and
Innovation Park.
JPG is providing full civil and structural engineering expertise on the project which is now on site. This includes site infrastructure works and surrounding
landscaping, as well as the impressive three storey arrow shaped building formed around a central courtyard space. Exterior copper cladding and full glazing
to the entrance atrium will create an impressive gateway to the new facility which will house modern and flexible space inside. David Allwood, Director at
JPG Group said: “We are delighted to be working with the partnership to deliver a highly impressive, flagship higher education building.” www.jpg.group
46 TC JANUARY 2021

5 STAR SERVICE
High performance membranes from the A. Wraptite, a self-adhesive, vapour permeable,
Proctor Group have been selected for the airtight membrane, was applied externally, quickly
construction of the new Dean Hotel in Cork, and easily, as part of the rainscreen system.
Ireland.
Shane Kerrisk, project architect, explained:
The 114 bed hotel, with a rooftop restaurant, is “Wraptite was chosen for the ease with which it
just part of an impressive major rejuvenation could be fixed, and for its provision of a
scheme across a 6 acre site at Horgan’s Quay, watertight line when used as part of the
which will include apartments, offices, bars, and Kingspan K-Roc Rainscreen System, and its
restaurants.
performance in relation to fire. It also removed
the requirement to tape and joint the substrate.”
The Dean Hotel has been designed by the award
winning practice Wilson Architecture, with BAM Wraptite is the only self-adhering vapour
Ireland as the main contractor for the project. permeable air barrier certified by the BBA, and
Specialist roofing and cladding contractor Deane combines the important properties of vapour
Roofing and Cladding were appointed for the permeability and airtightness in one selfadhering
membrane. Whilst internal air barriers
façade works.
will need to accommodate building services such
A key requirement was to produce an 8-storey
as electrical, lighting, heating and drainage
building which meets the highest standards in
systems, Wraptite is an external air barrier,
terms of fire, acoustic and thermal performance.
allowing for an almost penetration-free airtight
Instead of using a traditional internal air barrier, layer which can be installed faster and more
Wraptite & Procheck FR200 from A Proctor Group have been
used at the Dean Hotel, Cork.
robustly. Wraptite fully bonds to virtually any
substrate, requiring no mechanical attachment,
seals or tapes to suppress air leakage around
junctions or penetrations.
In addition to the Wraptite air barrier membrane,
Procheck FR200 was selected as a fire retardant
vapour control layer on the project.
Procheck FR200 has a Reaction to Fire
classification of B, s1 –d0 according to the
Euroclass system, which provides assurance of
fire performance for the structure.
www.proctorgroup.com
MCRMA CONTINUES TO ATTRACT NEW MEMBERS
The Metal Cladding and Roofing Manufacturers Association (MCRMA) has welcomed two new member companies to the Association in its
independent inspector and system installer categories.
Commercial Property Surveys Ltd, based in Solihull in the west Midlands, joins the independent inspectors’ category. In addition to providing services to
commercial property landlords and tenants, the company also provides independent roof and industrial cladding inspections to system manufacturers for
warranty audits, installation instruction compliance and more. KR Cladding Systems, based in Newburgh, Aberdeenshire, becomes MCRMA’s second system
installer member. Established for almost 20 years, KR Cladding has an experienced project base in agricultural buildings, storage facilities, commercial
buildings, industrial units, distilleries, and domestic and residential buildings. www.mcrma.co.uk
CUPACLAD SCOOPS AWARD
CUPA PIZARRAS took home the award for Best Cladding System at the virtual Build It Awards ceremony.
The Spanish slate company’s CUPACLAD Natural Slate Rainscreen Cladding system was recognised for its durability,
sustainability, timeless design and straightforward installation. Yasmin Herfegar, UK CUPACLAD Coordinator at CUPA
PIZARRAS, commented: “We were delighted that our CUPACLAD system has won this award and been recognised for its
sustainable credentials and its practicality as a cladding system. Rainscreen cladding systems are now widely considered
to be the most efficient solution available for construction purposes due to the double-wall design, providing insulation
and keeping out the rain and wind.“ www.cupapizarras.com/uk/rainscreen-cladding/
CUPACLAD 101 Logic at Costa St.
JANUARY 2021 TC 47

Mineral Wool
5 MYTHS ABOUT MINERAL WOOL
For years, Mineral Wool insulation has been one of the most reliable products in a
contractor’s arsenal. But over time, Knauf Insulation says a few misconceptions have sprung
up that could be preventing you from making the most of everything Mineral Wool has to
offer. Asif Dar, Technical Services Manager at Knauf Insulation, addresses some common
myths that he believes may be holding you back...
Myth: For thermal performance, rigid
foam board insulation is better than
Mineral Wool
Truth: On paper, foam insulation materials can
offer lower thermal conductivity across a given
thickness than Mineral Wool, but when installed
this rarely translates into superior thermal
performance. This is because rigid foam boards
are difficult to install correctly.
Even the slightest misalignment in boards –
caused by on-site cutting or snots that prevent
contact with the substrate, for example – leads to
air gaps that will reduce thermal performance. In
contrast, I feel Mineral Wool installation is much
easier to get right; its fibrous structure and
compressibility allow it to adapt to the substrate,
and individual slabs or rolls ‘knit’ together to seal
gaps.
In my view, this means that in practice the
theoretical gain in performance from rigid foam is
rarely achieved in full, and comparable U-values
can be achieved with both materials using less
Mineral Wool insulation than is often expected.
Myth: Mineral Wool loses its thermal
performance when it gets wet
Truth: Mineral Wool products designed for use in
external applications such as cavity walls or in
rainscreen façade systems contain water
repellent additives. This keeps water at bay if it
rains while the insulation is being installed or
during its lifespan in a fully-fitted cavity wall.
Provided the right product is used for the
application, any residual moisture after
installation will dry out, leaving the Mineral
Wool’s thermal performance
unaffected. Tests by the
European Insulation
Manufacturers Association
(Eurima) found that correctly
installed Mineral Wool
insulation retained its thermal
performance even after 55 years.
Myth: Mineral wool is unpleasant to use
Truth: We know that some installers have
experienced discomfort working with some
Mineral Wool products. Our research has shown
that it is the binder that ‘glues’ the individual
strands of Mineral Wool together that causes
installer discomfort, not the material itself.
Traditionally, these binders are oil-based, contain
phenol or formaldehyde and emit volatile organic
compounds (VOCs), but there is an alternative.
The majority of Knauf Insulation Mineral Wool
products are manufactured using ECOSE
Technology, our unique bio-based binder that
contains no added phenol or formaldehyde. This
means it generates very low levels of dust, is soft
to touch and easy to handle.
Myth: Rock Mineral Wool is better than Glass
Mineral Wool for noise reduction
Truth: Our research shows that Glass Mineral
Wool performs as well as Rock Mineral Wool, and
actually outperforms it in certain applications.
Tests were conducted using a standard internal
wall build-up comprising a metal stud partition at
600mm centres. Installing a Glass Mineral Wool
product designed for use in acoustic applications
resulted in a 44.8 dB DnTw reduction in sound.
Asif Dar, Technical Services Manager at
Knauf Insulation.
Swapping to a higher density
Rock Mineral Wool insulation
saw sound reduction decrease
to 43.9 dB DnTw and again to
41.0 dB DnTw with an even
higher density Rock Mineral Wool
insulation.
As ever, the right product to use depends on your
project.
Myth: Rock and Glass Mineral Wool have
different Euroclass Reaction to Fire
Classifications
Truth: Unlike other common insulants, both Rock
and Glass Mineral Wool are mostly classed as
non-combustible to BSEN 13501-1, and unfaced
products have the best possible Euroclass A1
Reaction to Fire Classification rating so will not
contribute to the development or spread of fire
should it occur.
The difference comes when fire resistance is
required. Fire resistance measures the ability of a
material or system to resist, and ideally prevent,
the passage of fire from one distinct area to
another. With a melting temperature of over
1,000ºC and its ability to minimise the transfer of
heat from the source (the fire), Rock Mineral Wool
is often used in applications where longer periods
of fire resistance are required.
Contact Knauf Insulation
01744 766666
www.knaufinsulation.co.uk
@KnaufUK
48 TC JANUARY 2021

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.

External Wall Insulation
GUIDANCE FOR EXTERNAL WALL
INSULATION PROJECTS
By Chris Kendall, Senior Field Engineer at Baumit UK.
Earlier this year the Green Building Council
and the National Housing Federation were
among ten organisations calling for an
urgent retrofit of insulation in homes across the
UK, which are reportedly the least energy efficient
in Western Europe. It follows a 2017 report by the
GBC that revealed 25 million UK homes would fail
to meet required insulation standards by 2050 –
the deadline the government has set for the
country to achieve carbon neutral status.
Installing External Wall Insulation
around a property provides a
proven solution to domestic
thermal inefficacy. It not
only reduces a
building’s carbon
footprint, it results in
lower energy bills
for the householder
and helps create
interiors which offer
year-round comfort.
When it comes to the
installation of EWI, the
initial challenge is ensuring
the system itself is compatible
with the substrate it is due to be applied
to. A pre-installation survey will help in this
respect, as well as determine which services – if
any – need to be rerouted away from the wall
before rendering work begins. This means
ensuring items such as flues, gas and waste
pipes are clear of the façade.
Weather conditions will play a large part in
deciding when EWI installation can proceed. Work
should not take place in rain or temperatures
lower than 5 degrees, as applying a system in
such conditions risks trapping moisture within the
substrate.
EWI allows
walls to breathe, but
once in-situ, any damp surface beneath will take
time to dry out, thus potentially compromising the
insulation’s performance. Installers should also
take into consideration the positioning of firebreak
materials – which should be non-combustible –
and follow the industry’s strict safety regulations
relating to exterior cladding.
Compatible solutions
Returning to the subject of system compatibility,
there are three main substrates to consider when
selecting the appropriate EWI solution: masonry,
Above: The Baumit Open system build-up. Opposite page
top: The Nature System build-up. Left; Baumit’s Silikontop.
“Weather conditions
will play a large part in
deciding when EWI
installation can
proceed”
timber frame and concrete. Baumit has a wide
range of EWI systems to suit all types of surface.
For example, its StarSystem EPS, which
comprises expanded polystyrene (EPS) insulation
boards, is suitable for masonry walls. Ideal for
new builds or properties under renovation, the
system is applied directly to the substrate and
finished with a thermal thin coat coloured render
topcoat, resulting in a strong, protective thermal
envelope that will stand the test of time. For
timber frame and concrete surfaces, Baumit’s
MineralTherm is recommended. Noncombustible,
breathable and water repellent, this
mineral wool-based EWI system also improves
sound insulation.
50 TC JANUARY 2021

(QUITE INTERESTING)
INSULATION FA
ACTS
By QI (Quantum Insulation Ltd)
What’
s the difference between buying XPS by the m 2 rather
than m 3 ?
As part of its approved contractor scheme, Baumit has a number of trusted
applicators who can be relied upon to install its products to the highest
specification. But as with any system regardless of type or industry, its longterm
performance requires a level of general maintenance to uphold its longterm
performance. Once the EWI is installed, installers should advise
building owners to remain vigilant and seal breakages around windows
within the façade, for example, as this could lead to water ingress and future
issues with damp.
Insulating the UK’s underperforming housing stock represents a huge
challenge, but one that requires urgent address if local and governmental
bodies are truly committed to tackling the issues related to climate change.
Reliable, cost-effective and involving a process that is rapid and less harmful
to the environment, EWI offers a clean, simple, effective method of creating
aesthetically-pleasing homes which leave occupants feeling good on the
inside. It’s the smart solution in the quest for a more sustainable way of living.
Above: Baumit’s Silikontop.
In answering this question, we should start by taking a broader look at the
history of how £/m 3 came about, and the many subsequent options that are
now available in the UK Inverted Insulation market today.
Originally only Dow Construction Products supplied the XPS inverted
market in the UK: Roofmate SL. A bulk volume producer, Dow thought in m 3
manufactured in m 3 and sold m 3 . As the only XPS on the market the Lambda
value was a given, the thickness required to achieve a U-value
straightforward and working out a price per m 2 based on the m 3 simple.
Now jump forward a few years. New players enter the market with new
products.Polyfoam and Kingspan offer an XPS and Jablite introduce an EPS
solution. These are all the same as Roofmate SL aren’t they? No, they are not!
Each has a different Lambda value, meaning the insulation thickness for a
given U-value is different. Some even achieve different declared lambda
values dependent on thickness, with the thinner boards being more
when comparing manufacturers, products and thickness.
Then along comes Climate Change Legislation. This led to the withdrawal
of
products such as Roofmate SLX, Kingspan H350, Efyos Artic, etc. all made
damage the Planet. Hence them being banned from January 2020.
Today, most inverted roof insulation is manufactured using more Climate
friendly gases such as C0 2
So now we have a market with numerous manufacturers, differing blowing
technologies, various thicknesses, and all competing to achieve a given
U-value. This is why buying inverted roof insulation in £/m 3 is not the most
A needs to supply 2 layers of insulation to achieve a U-value, whilst
manufacturer B can supply a single board thickness to achieve the U-value.
Here, only considering the £/m 3 price would completely l ignore the ad
dditional
installation costs of a 2-layer system.
For example, if we look at 0.15W/m 2 K U-value, the most common current
U-value requirement, an XPS with a design lambda of
0.038W/mK wi ill need
to be 250mm thick and cost circa £120/m 3 or £30/m 2 . An XPS insulation
with a design lambda of
0.028W/mK will look more expensive with a £150/
m 3 price, but because it only needs to be 175mm thick the m 2 rate wo ould be
£26.25m 2 . What’s more, the 0.028W/mK lambda insulation will be a single
layer installation.
Would a £3.75m 2 saving help you win a project?
before buying insulation by the m 3 .
If it would,
thi nk twice
Next month’s QI by QI: Non-combustible insulation in ro
oofs and balconies
Contact Baumit
01622 710763
https://baumit.co.uk
@BaumitUKLtd
JANUARY 2021 TC 51

Advertorial: ROCKWOOL
TOP MARKS FOR SCHOOL’S NON-
COMBUSTIBLE FLAT ROOF SOLUTION
When fire takes hold in the roof, it
becomes much more likely that a
building will be lost completely or
unusable for a long period of time – and with the
role of the roof evolving, it is more important than
ever that non-combustible insulation is used in
flat roof build-ups. This is especially significant
where public services such as education could be
disrupted, which is why a non-combustible
solution was specified for the new build Cobham
Free School…
The project
Constructed on a former office building site
covering approximately 2.58 hectares, the new
Cobham Free School, Surrey, is being delivered as
a phased programme that will realise a
community vision for an all-through school from a
single base by February 2021.
Construction has started on the addition of two
adjoined new-build blocks which will expand the
school’s facilities to include a 520-seater
auditorium, sports hall, fitness/dance studio and
changing facilities.
With the two new school wings incorporating a
flat roof construction, main contractor Willmott
Dixon Construction appointed Southern Industrial
Roofing to manage this specialist package.
To meet the required performance for education
buildings, Southern Industrial Roofing worked
with ROCKWOOL to design a robust acoustic and
non-combustible insulation specification.
The challenge
With a warm flat roof specified for Cobham Free
School, Southern Industrial Roofing had to balance
multiple design considerations, starting with BS
6229: ‘Flat roofs with continuously supported
flexible waterproof coverings’ and compliance with
specific education sector building regulations.
Simultaneously addressing
these requirements was
compounded by
mechanical and
electrical plant being
housed on the flat
roof, which
demanded noncombustible
zones to
provide safe access for
maintenance. Internal fire
rated walls in the building below
also required the flat roof to contribute to
effective compartmentation.
The solution
Recognising that the flat roof construction at
Cobham Free School presented a complex
combination of performance criteria, Willmott Dixon
Construction and Southern Industrial Roofing
consulted ROCKWOOL for expert guidance.
The flat roofs of the north and south wings span
800m² and 630m² respectively, constructed of both
solid and perforated zones. With an IKO Armourplan
Single Ply Roofing System / Membrane specified,
ROCKWOOL supported Southern Industrial Roofing
in designing a suitable insulated flat roof build-up.
Across the two new buildings, over 2000m² of
ROCKWOOL HARDROCK Multi-Fix (DD) has been
installed to provide all-in-one acoustic, thermal and
fire performance. ROCKWOOL provided an ideal
insulation solution with this build-up as it removed
the need for an additional barrier mat to reduce rain
noise transfer.
To help reduce reverberation in the dining room and
auditorium, a perforated metal deck was specified.
ROCKWOOL Acoustic Infills were installed within the
metal deck profiles to support in achieving the
required reverberation times for these areas.
Where the roof deck interfaced with
the heads of internal
compartmentation walls,
ROCKWOOL Trapezoidal
Fire Stops were
installed.
The result
By using ROCKWOOL to
insulate the warm flat roof,
Southern Industrial Roofing has
simplified overall design, achieved
on-site efficiency gains and increased
confidence in the performance of the system buildup.
As non-combustible insulation, ROCKWOOL also
removed any concerns about roof zoning for
maintenance access to the rooftop plant.
Andy Towns, Designer at Southern Industrial
Roofing, explained: “Flat roof construction has
become more complex in recent years, having to
navigate what are sometimes conflicting design
criteria. By providing access to test evidence with a
metal deck in the early design phases, we knew we
could move forward with confidence, using
ROCKWOOL as a robust acoustic solution for flat
roofs – without the need for an additional barrier
mat.”
Once on-site, Southern Industrial Roofing realised
further benefits they were not expecting: “As
compared with other insulation, we found
ROCKWOOL to be a much simpler build-up which
saved us time.
“In the past, we’d avoided using ROCKWOOL as we
thought it would be harder to handle on-site than
other insulation materials – experience on this
project has demonstrated that this is not the case.”
Contact ROCKWOOL
www.rockwool.co.uk
@ROCKWOOLUK
52 TC JANUARY 2021

TAPERED BENEFITS CPD
Gradient has created a CPD-style presentation insulation is its ability to reduce the risk of standing
aimed at providing architects and roofing water on a roof by allowing appropriate channelling
contractors with an understanding of the to drainage outlets. This decreases the potential for
principles behind tapered roof insulation. leaks and negates the need for a structural fall
which in-turn, helps minimise the roof’s overall
The ‘Specifying Tapered Roof Insulation’
cost and installation time.
presentation includes an in-depth look at how
tapered roof insulation works and why it is
Paul Griffiths, Business Development Director at
required, as well as highlighting the different Gradient, said: “This presentation was devised by
systems currently available on the market. It also our technical team as an industry aid to give clear,
considers some of the innovations that have practical guidance on tapered roof insulation
elevated tapered roof insulation to new levels of specification. When correctly specified and
performance. One of the main benefits of tapered installed as part of a roof’s waterproofing build-up,
tapered roof insulation will ensure regulation
thermal targets are met, thus addressing the
industry-wide issue of properties falling short of
as-designed performance.”
To book a place at one of the online sessions, visit
https://bit.ly/EventbriteGradient. The sessions
will be held at 10am each Tuesday and Thursday
from January 19th, to March 11th.
IMA AND NBS COMBINE THEIR EXPERTISE
The Insulation Manufacturers Association (IMA) has launched a new partnership with NBS, the leading specification
platform for the construction industry, to assist with peer review and share high-quality technical information.
The IMA says it is widely understood that insulation is the single most important aspect of energy efficiency in a building, and
with almost half of the UK’s total carbon footprint generated from energy used in buildings, improvements to the built
environment present a substantial opportunity to reduce emissions both quickly and effectively. Through the new platform, the
IMA says NBS users will benefit enormously from a greater understanding of the different elements of a building’s fabric as
well as the importance that the correct installation of high-quality thermal insulation will have in reducing the environmental
impact of a building and reducing energy consumption.
Above: Simon Storer, IMA.
Simon Storer, Chief Executive of IMA, explained: “We have long advocated the need for a fabric first approach in order to meet the binding net zero 2050
targets and being able to bring NBS users as much information as possible at specification point is crucial in making the right choices to meet or exceed
the current regulations.” www.insulationmanufacturers.org.uk
ACTIS CPD APPROVED FOR RIBA TRAINING
Actis says its CPD on addressing the performance gap with reflective insulation has been approved to join the stable
of Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) approved training modules.
The CPD, which looks at how to combat thermal bridging and achieve optimal energy efficiency, will be available to RIBA chartered
architects, who, along with their non-RIBA affiliated counterparts, must complete 35 hours of CPD every year. RIBA approved CPDs
are worth double the points of a standard CPD and are therefore much prized by members, with 76% of them choosing training which has been specifically
approved by the professional body. The Actis CPD, Addressing the performance gap with reflective insulation, which is currently available online, will be
promoted via RIBA’s website, and the Institute’s monthly newsletter. Actis UK and Ireland Technical Director, Thomas Wiedmer, himself an architect, said:
“We are looking forward immensely to being able to help the wider architectural profession to understand the benefits of reflective insulation in helping
address issues of thermal bridging. The module looks at why the performance gap exists, evidence of its existence through research by bodies such as BBA
and Glasgow Caledonian University, the effects of external factors on the fabric efficiency of a building, the impact of Part L which places a good deal of
emphasis on air tightness and the impact of thermal bridging and how reflective insulation can address it.” www.insulation-actis.com
JANUARY 2021 TC 53

Article
Sustainability
TURNING WASTE INTO WORKWEAR
Peter Dumigan, Managing Director of the Hultafors Group UK, which owns Snickers
Workwear, Hultafors Tools, EMMA, Solid Gear and Toe Guard safety footwear, as well as
Hellberg Safety PPE, talks ‘Preferred Fibres’ and sustainable workwear...
Just as the effects of plastic waste on the
environment have been brought to the centre of
consumer consciousness in recent years, so
the problems caused by the disposal of clothing and
shoes are coming to the fore.
Images of ‘ragpickers’ on our waste clothing
mountains in Africa are an increasing cause for
concern as landfill sites in the UK become
overwhelmed and we dispose of our waste on
someone else’s doorstep. That’s why the sourcing
of sustainable and environmentally responsible
workwear and safety footwear is becoming a key
part of our environmental consciousness.
Fabric technology has always been a key driver in
the design and development of Snickers Workwear
garments. Fabrics that deliver comfort and
functionality, flexibility and durability are key
components of every single product in the range.
Now, as consumers and corporates strive to reduce
their impact on the planet,
the Hultafors Group is
implementing a policy of
replacing conventional fabrics
in its workwear products with
sustainable fabrics –
Preferred Fibres.
Given the increasing levels of
awareness about the impact
of waste on our environment,
this will surely have an impact on the clothes
people choose for work in years to come. For
Snickers Workwear, this product development and
design philosophy is being applied to every new
product in the Snickers Workwear collection with the
additional assurance that the Snickers hallmarks of
design, comfort, functionality and durability will not
be compromised in any way.
Snickers Workwear’s objective is to ensure that by
2030, 70% of the fabrics used are Preferred Fibres
– those with sustainable properties and a lower
environmental footprint. As early as 2023, the
company will be at 40% – a significant
achievement by any measure. For those that
haven’t come across the term, Preferred Fibres are
those that have more sustainable properties
compared to conventional man-made alternatives.
Given that almost any fabric and garment can be
developed with recycled polyester yarn, Snickers
Workwear’s aim is to replace conventional fibres
such as polyester with Preferred Fibres which have
full manufacturing transparency, traceability and
thus reduce our climate impact and prevent waste
from going into landfill.
The environmentally friendly fleece
jackets for winter
Man-made materials such as nylon and polyester
fabrics can easily be recycled to create new,
Preferred Fibres that have the
same performance levels in
comfort, flexibility and
durability as the originals.
Take Snickers Workwear’s
new Fleece Jackets and Gilets
for example.
Snickers Workwear’s new
Fleece Jackets for men and
women are made from 100%
recycled POLARTEC polyester which increases the
breathability of the fabric and makes them very
comfortable and warm.
They’re lightweight with great insulation properties
and, with designs for both men and women – and a
fit that ensures mobility and flexibility on site –
these soft and versatile garments are great for both
work and leisure. Either as an everyday outer jacket
Safety footwear that’s creating a
positive footprint
We’ve all seen how quickly clothing and footwear
containers at waste disposal centres fill up, which
is why we all have to ensure that footwear and
garments are disposed of in an environmentally
responsible way.
EMMA Safety Footwear, the Hultafors Group’s
latest brand addition to its market-leading PPE
portfolio, has the solution to this problem. It’s a
policy of ‘100% Circularity’ in all its products.
Every shoe and boot in the EMMA range is made
entirely from recycled or recyclable materials. It’s
a 100% ‘circular’ manufacturing, usage and
recycling process for every shoe and boot it
produces. So check out the EMMA Safety Footwear
range to make a positive footprint in your workday.
www.emmasafetyfootwear.com
in dry, cold weather, or as an insulating mid-layer
on cold and wet workdays.
Wearing sustainable garments such as these is an
easy but very urgent step in developing your
company’s and your own sustainability roadmap, so
you will be able to make a conscious contribution to
the environment and save valuable resources such
as energy and water with your buying decisions.
Contact Hultafors Group / Snickers Workwear
www.hultaforsgroup.co.uk
www.snickersworkwear.com
54 TC JANUARY 2021

Article
Access to Tools
HANDS-ON ASSISTANCE ON SITE
Kevin Brannigan, Marketing Manager at Makita UK, discusses some of the handy tool belt
and pouch solutions for roofers and trade professionals which he says offer convenient
access when working at height.
Utilising tool belts and pouches can help
roofers and other trade professionals
safely and securely transport tools to and
from the van and around the work site with
increased functionality and flexibility, as well as
reduce the need to make countless and
unnecessary trips up and down ladders.
At Makita we offer a wide range of work belts and
pouches, all inclusive of 3L Technology, a unique
three-layer combination of polyesters and foam,
to provide additional cushioning and improve user
comfort.
Roofer’s pouch
Several of our pouches are designed with certain
sectors in mind; for roofers specifically, the E-
05153 Roofer’s Pouch has been designed to
ensure users are able to keep important tools and
accessories secure at all times, regardless of
where they are.
This pouch has two pockets for keeping
nails and screws to hand, three
leather tool holders for larger
hand tools and three
elasticated holders for
screwdrivers or pencils. The
main feature is the side gate
hammer holder enabling you to
secure a hammer in place quickly.
Another option is the E-05228 3-Way Hammer
and Tool Holder, which can be carried attached to
a belt and also either front or pack pocket on
workwear trousers. The unique design also allows
the pouch to remain vertical wherever you are,
enabling your tools to remain securely in place for
when you need them.
Consider adding the Zip Top Pouch (E-05206) to
your tool belt. This sits on any Makita belt and
can safely and
conveniently hold two
Makita batteries so
that work doesn’t
need to pause for
recharging
cordless tools,
which is
especially
convenient when
working at height. The
zipped design keeps the
batteries secure and prevents
any on site dust damage and the extra
pockets and sleeves are ideal for
nails, parts, pencils and other
essentials.
Customised tool belts
To get the most out of our
pouch solutions, we recommend
investing in one of our
specially designed trade
tool belts.
The Ultimate Padded Belt with
Belt and Loop (E-05321) is the
perfect base to build a
customised tool belt set. It is
extremely robust with rivets for
unbreakable strength, the belt includes
D-rings for accessories and is compatible for use
with supporting braces, for extra heavy loads
when required. The belt is also padded for user
comfort and durability. Users can customise belts
further using Makita’s multi-purpose heavy-duty
Belt Loops (E-05309) to hang anything with a
carabiner.
It’s now also possible to add specially-designed
solutions for additional items that you want to
Left: The E-05153 Roofer General
Purpose Pouch; Below:
E-05583_Ultimate
Smartphone Holder;
Below left:
E-05321_Ultimate
Padded Belt with Belt
Loop, all from Makita
UK.
keep to hand,
such as mobile
phones. For this,
our Ultimate
Smartphone Holder (E-
05583) is suitable to fit most
modern devices. Featuring multiple
lining layers of polyester, foam and
soft air mesh material to
withstand all conditions, the
zipped pouch provides extra
protection for your mobile
phone on a building site,
reducing the likelihood of
damage.
For further reassurance and increased product
rigidity, all of Makita’s pouches feature Anti-Slip
Technology, which is used on all friction points and
pocket edges, to tightly grip tools, stopping them
from sliding around and keeping them securely in
place to help prevent accidental falls.
The useful and long-lasting range provides a
practical solution for roofers looking to foster onsite
productivity gains and flexibility. What’s
more, solutions provided in the collection are
modular by nature, and can be added to over
time, as demands change.
Contact Makita UK
www.makitauk.com
@MakitaUK
56 TC JANUARY 2021

GREEN, BROWN & BLUE ROOF SYSTEMS, SOLAR PV, TESLA POWERWALL,
ROOFLINE & ROOF SAFETY INSTALLERS
We’re ICB Projects, a fully accredited and experienced
installer for these systems.
Contact us today for technical assistance or a quote.
Discover more at icbprojects.co.uk
01202 785200 info@icbprojects.co.uk www.icbprojects.co.uk
UK Head Office Unit 9-11 Fleets Industrial Estate, Willis Way, Poole, Dorset BH15 3SU
Green, Brown & Blue Roof Systems / Solar PV / Tesla Powerwall / Roofline/ Roof Safety Installers

Updates
For further info on all these updates and more, visit www.total-contractor.co.uk
VISIBLE BENEFITS WITH SNICKERS
While fabric, functionality and fit are
hallmarks of Snickers Workwear, the
company says it’s the innovation and fabric
technology in the design of its new
FlexiWork Neon Fleece Hoodie, Jacket and
Gilet that really set these new garments
apart.
Snickers says they’re great for working
outdoors in the colder months, and delivering
superior flexibility and comfort, these
lightweight 4-way stretch garments come in a
body-mapping design and are made from an
Elastane/Polyester fabric with a water-and
wind-repellent finish for comfort and durability
when you need it most.
As well as being street-smart and visibly
striking with neon panels and reflective details
for enhanced visibility, they’re designed for the
fast-paced professional who’s always on the go
and delivering top class work on site.
For professionals who rely on their gear in
demanding environments, they’re a must for
those who want to be visibly ahead of the rest
on site this winter.
www.snickersworkwear.co.uk
EXCELLENCE AS STANDARD WITH NORTON CLIPPER
Norton Clipper has expanded its diamond blade offering with the addition of its latest performance tier.
The new ‘Standard’ range is designed for light to medium-duty building, construction and maintenance tasks.
Available in three main application sectors: •Standard Ceramic: Designed to cut ceramic, glazed ceramic,
porcelain tiles and other similar materials for a quality cut; •Standard Universal: Suitable for universal
building materials such as bricks, pavers and building blocks – also available in Universal Turbo for a more
aggressive cut on harder materials (ideal for roof tiles); •Standard Beton: Covers tougher materials, such as
concrete and reinforced concrete.
To help contractors quickly and easily choose the correct tool for their projects, blade blotters have been enlarged
to clearly display images of the correct material and application type, and packaging is colour coded in order to help
identify which materials it can be used for, as follows: • Green (Standard Ceramic): Ceramics and porcelain;
• Blue (Standard Universal): Building materials; • Red (Standard Beton): Concrete.
Adrian Hough, Country Manager at Saint-Gobain Abrasives, commented: “Our new entry level Standard blades complement our existing family of quality
product and performance tiers, namely: Classic, Pro and Extreme. Each tier provides users with the right amount of power and durability for each application –
using the correct blade can guarantee users a smoother and faster cut, whilst extending product lifecycles to save money and time spent on replacements. We
have developed this range alongside and with the feedback of contractors and builders to ensure that this is indeed a product designed with the user’s needs
and requirements in mind.” www.nortonabrasives.com/
STARLOCK KITS SHINE FOR FEIN USERS
FEIN has released a range of new Starlock accessory kits that are compatible with its recently-launched MultiMaster 300, 500 and 700 series
to the UK market.
With the new Starlock accessories, the MultiMaster range offers 1,000 blade possibilities, including sawing, sanding, polishing,
cutting, filing, scraping and cleaning, for a mix of environments from wood, metal, and heating, to flooring, tiles, grout
and renovations. “We understand that productivity is one of the biggest priorities for our customers, which is why we’re
excited to extend our popular accessories range even further. Thanks to the multitude of possibilities MultiMaster now
Above: The new accessories are available now
at FEIN stockists across the UK.
offers, completing a job quickly and proficiently has never been easier. fein.com/en_uk/
58 TC JANUARY 2021

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