March 2021

MARCH 2021
INTRODUCING
L F
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veyaroofandsend
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e.
INTRODUCING
A LL4ROOL4ROO
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Editor’s Comment
MATT DOWNS
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
MATTDOWNS@MEDIA-NOW.CO.UK
07963 330774
INTRODUCING
F
ur
veyaroofandsend
aquote–anytime,anywher
e.
A
S LL4ROOL4ROO
F
ALL4ROOF
INTRODUCING
Survey a roof and send
a quote – anytime, anywhere.
The results from the State of the UK Roofing Industry survey are in for
Q4 2020, and they show that whilst the sector endured what can at
best be called a turbulent 2020, roofing contractors ended the year on
a high, with “growing workloads across all sectors”.
Prepared by Glenigan on behalf of the NFRC, the State of the UK Roofing
Industry survey will be produced quarterly, and going forward it will be a
useful tool for contractors to gauge how they’re performing, plus monitor
key pointers such as supply of materials, trends in the market and
employment levels. As NFRC CEO James Talman explains in his article on
page 18: “This data can be used by contractors to benchmark their
performance against the industry average, by suppliers to help with
forecasting, and by government to inform policy – for the first time we will
have regular and timely data on our industry’s performance each quarter.”
In his latest Perfectly Pitched column, John Mercer tackles condensation
problems in loft spaces and explains how to treat and prevent the problem
(page 28); plus, staying on the subject of ventilation, John Mellor of
Glidevale Protect looks to take some of the confusion out of choosing and
working with pitched roofing underlays on page 30.
Elsewhere in this issue, on page 34 we put the questions to Ken Lynes, MD of
Fixfast, and hear what the “heightened focus on the quality and performance
of products” means for installers and fixings, plus why there’s still more to do
when it comes to installation of fasteners, as this is “where performance is
most often compromised”.
So read on for all this and much more...
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Matt
£345
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Including
delivery
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With the All4Roof online tool, you can survey a roof and
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• Survey any roof remotely • Send out a quote in minutes • Completely free to use
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DD: 01892 732 047
Mob: 07963 330777
Email: andydunn@media-now.co.uk
Registered office: 1 Forstal Road, Aylesford, Kent, ME20 7AU
Visit www.wienerberger.co.uk/all4roof
Visit www.wienerbe erger.co.u
k/ /all4roof
Front cover courtesy of Wienerberger. Find out more
about ALL4ROOF at www.wienerberger.co.uk/all4roof
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MARCH 2021 TC 3

Contents
3 KEY FEATURES
20 CHALLENGES AHEAD
Richard Bostock gives his thoughts on how to
negotiate the challenges currently facing the
roofing sector, but points to some positives also
34 KEY Q’S: KEN LYNES
The Fixfast MD explains why there’s still more to
do when it comes to “putting safety at the heart
of what we do in construction”
56 GHG: THE WAY FORWARD?
With a stalled start and issues around
implementation, Simon Storer looks at the
challenges facing Green Homes Grant
47
34
FURTHER READING
22 LEARNING & MENTAL HEALTH
Stuart Hicks discusses the role of learning in improving
mental wellbeing, plus the training and support available
24 MANUFACTURER SUPPORT
Daniel Redfern discusses the tools and services available
to help roofers reduce risk, save time and boost revenue
26 SITE & COLLEGE SUPPORT
Slating & tiling lecturer Ross Hepburn says using quality
materials from the likes of SR Timber is vital for colleges
30 MEMBRANES & VENTILATION
John Mellor explains why when it comes to roofing
membranes and ventilation, one size does not fit all
30
36 Q&A: SKILLS FOR THE FUTURE
We talk to Hannah Wall of CUPA PIZARRAS about the
impact of COVID-19 on the company’s college sponsorship
50 RAISING STANDARDS
EJOT explains why raising standards is key to its
continued sponsorship support of two NFRC initiatives
4 TC MARCH 2021

REGULARS
18 NFRC ROOFING FOCUS
Having launched a new quarterly roofing trade
survey, NFRC’s James Talman discusses some
of the key findings from the first instalment
28 PERFECTLY PITCHED
Technical Roofing Consultant John Mercer
explains how to control the risk of
condensation in loft spaces
59 QI BY QI
The experts at Quantum Insulation outline best
practice when it comes to the correct loading
of inverted roof insulation
SECTIONS:
TOTAL
ROOFING
24
TOTAL
CLADDING
48
INDUSTRY NEWS
06 RESPONSE TO CLADDING CALL
Peter Johnson asks if lack of skills could be the Achilles’
Heel of planned cladding remediation work
08 NEW REGULATOR WELCOMED
Andy Williamson says construction’s new product
regulator is a chance to “reset the compliance bar”
TOTAL
INSULATION
52
VEHICLES, TOOLS
& WORKWEAR
12
62
MARCH 2021 TC 5

Industry News
EXTRA REWARDS IN
SPRING WITH VELUX
Construction industry professionals and
homeowners across the UK and Ireland
can now benefit from an extra rewards
boost this spring, thanks to roof window
manufacturer VELUX.
Introduced in 2015, VELUX Rewards is a
scheme designed to provide installers,
builders and homeowners with an
opportunity to further benefit from buying
roof windows from the premium roof window
brand, by providing access to vouchers
redeemable at top high street and online
brands each time they make a purchase.
Rewards can be claimed for all purchases of
VELUX roof windows, flat roof windows, sun
tunnels, blinds or selected combination
flashings throughout the year.
While rewards typically range from £3 to £30
depending on the product, for this March and
April only, VELUX is offering £35 of rewards
for every white polyurethane roof window.
The extra rewards are redeemable at a range
of retailers and restaurants including wellknown
brands Argos, M&S, John Lewis,
Adidas and Tesco.
Scott Leeder, Market Director from VELUX,
said: “Spring is traditionally a busy time for
the industry, with homeowners keen to
expand their homes in time for summer. With
renovations keeping installers busy, we were
keen to provide an extra boost to our rewards
scheme to ensure installers, builders and
homeowners benefit even more by choosing
VELUX.”
www.velux.co.uk/rewards
More news, updates and interviews at www.total-contractor.co.uk
BARRIERS TO CLADDING REMEDIATION WORK
In February, Robert Jenrick, the UK’s
Housing Minister, announced that the
government would foot the £3.5bn
bill to repair unsafe cladding on all
flats of over 18m or six storeys in
height. Plans for a new loan for
leaseholders living in medium-rise flats
affected by unsafe cladding were also confirmed.
Under this scheme, those living in this category will
not pay more than £50 per month to replace
defective cladding.
In response to this announcement, Peter Johnson
(pic), Chairman of Vivalda Group – the UK’s
largest independent fabricator/distributor of nonflammable
cladding, said: “While I broadly
welcome this as a step in the right direction, this
figure still falls a long way short of the £15bn fund
that the select committee recommended to fix
unsafe cladding on all high-rise buildings.
“Nevertheless, there remain challenges to
implement such a plan. Right now, the cladding
sector is pretty much working at full capacity – in
NEW MAG FOR GREEN ROOF & PV SECTORS
Media Now, the Publisher of
Total Contractor magazine, has
launched Greenscape
magazine in association with
the Green Roof Organisation.
Greenscape, which will be
published four times a year,
focuses on the green roof and
solar PV sectors and offers
guidance and advice for all those
involved in the supply chain,
plus keeps them up to date with
the latest developments.
Ensuring Bes
t Pr
actice for Green Rooo
f & Solar PV Projects
A spokesperson for Media Now explained: “In line
with the path the government is currently on, it’s
clear green roofs and Solar PV are going to play an
increasing role in the built environment as we
attempt to meet environmental targets.
GREENSCAPE
In collaborat
tion with the Green Roofing As
terms of the skilled workforce available
to fix cladding safely onto buildings.
Installing cladding is a skilled job
and without a significant increase
in trained, qualified people, I can’t
see how the industry can deliver such
a huge project at scale.
“I understand various training schemes have
been discussed and may well be in process, using
tried and tested organisations such as the CITB
and NFRC. However, it appears they have been
put on hold due to lockdown. I urge the
government to re-engage these training
organisations and construction bodies as soon a
safely possible to get these training schemes up
and running with great urgency.
“Clearly, it is only right and proper for the
government to be putting adequate funds in place
to fix this national disgrace, but it should also be
focusing on the barriers to delivery, such as skills
shortages. Lack of available skilled labour could
be the Achilles’ heel of the remediation work.”
MAGA
AZINE
Illustrative cover: image courtesy of
Complete Roofing Systems.
“With increased demand,
however, it’s even more
important that standards are
maintained throughout the
supply chain to ensure
installations and projects
perform as expected, and
ultimately stand the test of time.
“With this in mind, we’ve
launched Greenscape to keep all
ssociation.
those involved on green roof and
solar PV projects – from design
and specification through to
installation and maintenance – up to date with
the latest developments, projects, and advice and
guidance for their sectors.”
To find out more or request a media pack, contact
a member of the team on 01892 732 047.
6 TC MARCH 2021

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Industry News
More news, updates and interviews at www.total-contractor.co.uk
NEGATIVES & POSITIVES HIGHLIGHTED IN NEW SECTOR SURVEY
When asked to rank their top three concerns for
2021, almost half of roofing and cladding
contractors (48 per cent) put material shortages
at the top of the list, according to a new State of
the Roofing Industry Survey, produced by
Glenigan for NFRC.
The survey shows that roof tiles were the most
common material shortage reported by roofing
contractors in the final quarter of 2020, with almost
half of firms struggling to get hold of them (49 per
cent). Roofers also listed timber and battens (17
per cent), slates (14 per cent) and insulation (5 per
cent) as other materials in shortage.
The NFRC survey shows that shortages are having
a knock-on impact on material prices, with three
quarters (76 per cent) of firms reporting
inflationary pressures in the last year, and two
thirds (65 per cent) of roofers saying that prices
have increased even on the previous quarter.
In spite of this, contractors experienced a positive
end to 2020, with two in five roofing contractors
(41 per cent) reporting an increase in their
workloads in Q4 on the previous quarter.
Key findings from the new UK-wide survey of
roofing and cladding firms include:
• Workloads were up in all roofing sectors in Q4
of 2020 with domestic repair, maintenance and
improvement (RMI) performing the strongest,
followed by commercial RMI and public nonresidential
RMI.
• All nations and regions of the UK, apart from
Northern Ireland, experienced higher workloads
than the previous quarter. Scotland performed
best, with 80 per cent of Scottish roofing
contractors reporting higher activity levels.
• Employment levels increased on the previous
quarter, with a net balance of 12 per cent of firms
reporting a higher staff count than in Q3, but this
is still down 3 per cent on the previous year.
• It is becoming harder for roofing contractors to
recruit, with 45 per cent of firms reporting that
recruitment is becoming more difficult. Labour
shortages was the second highest area of concern
reported for 2021.
• Roofing firms are optimistic for the year ahead,
with more firms expecting workloads to increase
in 2021 rather than decrease.
Commenting on the survey results, NFRC Chief
Executive, James Talman, said: “The last year has
seen manufacturing plants temporarily shut down,
whole shifts of workers having to self-isolate,
disruptions at ports, and enhanced international
competition for many products such as timber – it
is, therefore, no wonder that the top concern for
roofing contractors this year is material
shortages.”
He added: “Despite these challenges, the
industry ended the year on an optimistic note,
with healthy order books, and a good number of
future enquiries across all parts of the
industry.”
More on sector survey: page 18
NEW REGULATOR “AN OPPORTUNITY TO RESET COMPLIANCE BAR”
The establishment of a new regulator to ensure
homes are built from safe materials is “an
opportunity to reset the compliance bar” and
further strengthen the message that products
must be “fit for purpose”, according to SIG’s
Commercial Director Andy Williamson.
Mr Williamson welcomed the formation of the
national construction products regulator, which will
operate within the government’s Office for Product
Safety and Standards (OPSS). He said that while
the industry as a whole works hard to ensure
compliance, it is reassuring that this new regulator
will be on hand and keeping a watchful eye on
products in the marketplace.
“The overwhelming majority of companies and those
working in construction do their very best to operate
professionally, ensuring the materials they use are
safe, compliant and fit-for-purpose,” he said.
“Yet standards can sometimes slip. Any
measure that will help to maintain and
improve compliance should be strongly
supported.”
The OPSS has been given £10 million to
establish the new division, with the regulator
working with Trading Standards and the Building
Safety Regulator to “encourage and enforce”
compliance.
Not only will the regulator be able to order the
removal of any product that presents a significant
safety risk, it will also have the authority to take to
court companies that flout rules on product safety.
It will also have strong enforcement powers and the
ability to conduct its own testing when carrying out
investigations.
As a major distributor of specialist building
Left: Andy Williamson,
SIG’s Commercial Director.
materials, SIG says it has a major focus
on compliance, leading the way through
‘SIG Assured’, the company’s
comprehensive compliance tracking system.
The system means SIG is always up to date with
changing legislation and product development,
while continually monitoring the companies and
products that are compliant. SIG says it also means
customers have complete traceability on the
provenance of the products they purchase.
Mr Williamson added: “The creation of the new
regulator should be seen as an opportunity to reset
the compliance bar, to build back confidence in the
safety of buildings, while further reinforcing the
industry’s determination to prevent unproven
products entering the market.”
8 TC MARCH 2021

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Industry News
More news, updates and interviews at www.total-contractor.co.uk
CONSULTATION INTO HOW CITB RAISES LEVY IS UNDERWAY
The training body for British construction is
proposing to keep rates at pre-COVID levels as
it launches a wide-reaching consultation into
its funding proposals.
A six-week consultation into how CITB raises its
Levy – the funding needed from the industry for
the training body to provide its support – began
on Monday (1 March).
The consultation will include a range of virtual
events, and once feedback on the draft Levy
Proposals is in, CITB will proceed to Consensus
this summer. This will see a representative
sample of 4,000 Levy-paying employers asked for
their agreement on plans to raise this funding for
the next three years.
Sarah Beale, Chief Executive officer of CITB, said:
“With the impact of COVID-19 last year, we spoke
to employers and listened to their view that we
should be focussing on supporting them through
the pandemic. As such, we postponed Consensus
and immediately suspended the Levy.
This year employers will be
assessed at a reduced rate, whilst
we continue to maximise the
support to employers and impact of
your Levy.
“The feedback we’ve had now is that the
industry wants us to proceed with running
Consensus, and we’ve agreed that now is the right
time to start.
“We’re looking forward to talking with businesses
from across the sector to understand their views,
and explaining how we’ll use their money to
provide the training and the skills that the
industry needs.”
While views are sought on the draft Levy
Proposals 2022-25 ahead of Consensus,
businesses will also be asked about CITB’s 10
areas of greatest need for developing skills in the
sector. CITB will enhance funding and support to
Left: Sarah Beale,
CITB Chief Executive Officer.
these areas, which will include
skills gaps, jobs shortages, and
the industry’s environmental
impact.
The draft Levy Proposals are a return to
pre-COVID levels of 2019, of 0.35% for PAYE staff
and 1.25% for net paid (taxable) sub-contractors.
CITB says it will support smaller employers by
waiving the Levy for more businesses this year.
Companies with a wage bill below £120,000 will
pay nothing, and Levy will be halved for those
between £120,000 and £400,000.
Levy registered employers can take part in the
consultation from Monday 1 March to Sunday 11
April at www.citb.co.uk/levyconsultation
Consensus will take place from Monday 14 June
to Sunday 15 August, with more information
available at www.citb.co.uk/consensus2021
NFRC TO BE A TRAILBLAZER EPAO
NFRC has announced that it is set to become an Richardson commented: “Many companies are
End Point Assessment Organisation (EPAO) for not aware they have a choice over which
the roofing Trailblazer apprenticeship standard, organisation they choose to be their End Point
subject to some final checks from the Education Assessment Organisation and often just go with
and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) and the the one chosen for them, which may not always
Apprenticeship Assessment Service.
be the best choice. We are urging all roofing
contractors to choose NFRC, the federation that
Since September 2019, all new apprenticeship
stands for roofing excellence, as the End Point
standards have had to conclude with an external
Assessment Organisation for their apprentices. By
end-point assessment, undertaken by an
choosing us, contractors can be assured of our
organisation independent of either the employer or
proven experience and expertise in the
training provider.
assessment process.”
The main advantage in this new process for the
He concluded: “We are working closely with the
employer is that they get to choose which
Institute for Apprenticeships and the Education
organisation undertakes this assessment and
and Skills Funding Agency, as well as putting the
NFRC is now urging all roofing contractors to
necessary processes in place internally, to ensure
choose the federation as their End Point
that we are ready to be able to start assessing the
Assessment Organisation.
first apprentices to complete their roofing
NFRC Head of Technical and Training, Bob Trailblazer.”
KEY APPOINTMENTS
• Leading distributor of specialist building
products, SIG, is toasting the appointment
of Steve Davies as SIG Distribution’s new
Divisional Sales Director for the North.
• Jon Dore, one of the building envelope
sector’s most prominent commercial
experts has joined CA Group as the firm’s
Business Development Manager, in a newly
created role that will see further expansion
of its existing commercial department.
• VERSALIFT UK has appointed Derek
Murdoch as Service Manager, to oversee all
service and aftersales activities. Murdoch
joins the company with over 35 years of
service experience, including a significant
number at Alimak Hek Group as E.ME.A
Business Segment Manager Offshore.
More on these stories at www.total-contractor.co.uk
10 TC MARCH 2021

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Industry News
More news, updates and interviews at www.total-contractor.co.uk
IOR ANNOUNCES STUDENT OF THE YEAR
The Institute of Roofing (IOR) has
named Garath Buckingham as
its Student of the Year.
Garath, who is Site Services
Manager at HD Sharman,
received the award following
completion of the IOR’s Associate
Course. Janice Bailey, Sales Assistant
at HD Sharman, has also been praised for
her efforts with a Special Recognition
award for her application and the
originality of her final
presentation.
The IOR says its Associate
Course is designed for anyone
considering a professional career
in roofing, particularly those seeking
to move into a supervisory or management
role. The training has recently been updated,
moving to a dedicated online learning platform
which the IOR says offers professionals the
opportunity to learn effectively with minimum
disruption to working patterns.
Garath completed his training prior to the national
COVID-19 lockdown. Speaking about his accolade,
he said: “It feels great to be recognised for the
extra hours and hard work I put into the course,
which resulted in an overall distinction.
“I couldn’t have done it without the support of my
colleagues. We did the course over 5-7 weeks and
it was easily manageable in multiple modules.
The online platform allowed us to keep track of
what we needed to do before our next classroom
session while allowing us to upload our completed
worksheets for marking.
“The training covers a great mix of roof types and
build-ups that we perhaps wouldn’t normally
come across everyday as a company, along with
relevant legislation and the tender and
procurement process. All of this has provided our
teams with more knowledge and a better
Left: Garath Buckingham, IOR’s Student of the
Year; Below: Janice Bailey received the
IOR’s Special Recognition Award. Both
are employees of HD Sharman.
understanding of the roofing
industry as a whole.”
Janice also added: “It was a
lovely surprise to win this award. I
gave 100 per cent to the course and it has
really paid off. The training has taught
me lots of things that I wouldn’t
have known about in my job
role, so my skills and
understanding have
significantly increased.”
Stuart Hicks, CEO of the IOR,
said: “All of the students who have
recently completed the new and updated
course have worked incredibly hard. We are
particularly proud of Garath and Janice for their
efforts as reflected by these well-deserved
awards.
“We’ve received a lot of positive feedback on the
revised course and hope that other professionals
can see the real benefits of learning the essential
skills and knowledge to help them progress in the
roofing industry.”
The Associate course costs £850+VAT per
delegate and includes content such as law,
finance, terminology & design specification,
surveying & estimating, tendering & procurement,
roof safety and standards – which are considered
essential in today’s construction climate. Due to
coronavirus restrictions, the course has recently
been reconfigured for full online delivery over a
15-week period with the first three courses fully
subscribed.
For more information, visit
www.instituteofroofing.org or email
admin@instituteofroofing.org to book a place.
Read Stuart Hicks’ latest column on page 22.
‘UNPRECEDENTED’
TIMBER DEMAND
The Timber Trade Federation has reported
that timber and panel imports reached 1.08
million m³ in November 2020, which was
the highest monthly total since the October
2007 volume of 1.04 million m³.
This was the second consecutive month
where imports of the main timber and panel
products were above the 1 million m³ mark.
The growth in the imports of the main timber
and panel products in November 2020 of
nearly 37% is in stark contrast to the 39%
reduction in volume in April 2020.
David Hopkins, CEO of the Timber Trade
Federation, said: “This demonstrates that the
timber supply chain has been working at full
steam trying to meet the unprecedented
demand. Record volumes of timber are being
brought in and absorbed by the market as
quickly as they are coming off the dock, often
by previous allocation.
“We can expect construction and renovation to
play a large role in these plans, putting extra
pressure on supply chains in terms of
availability and inflation. This has caused
problems across the supply chain, particularly
the merchant-to-builder route, causing strain
and shortages in certain areas.”
12 TC MARCH 2021

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Industry News
BREXIT GUIDANCE
FROM NARM
STAY ENGAGED TO BEAT SUPPLY ISSUES
Andrew Hayward, Managing Director at
Russell Roof Tiles, explores the current issues
around roof tile supply following the impact of
the COVID-19 pandemic:
Since the 1st January 2021, the UK has
no longer been a member of the EU and
changes have been made to the
regulation and marking of construction
products in the UK.
Responding to this change, NARM, the
National Association of Rooflight
Manufacturers, has updated its guidance
document NTD07 covering construction
products regulation. The new document,
NTD07.1 Construction Products Regulation,
NARM update January 2021 provides
detailed information on post-Brexit
regulation.
Included are:
•Full details of the UK Conformity Assessed
(UKCA) mark, the new GB product marking
used for goods being placed on the market in
England, Scotland and Wales, which replaces
the CE mark – and the CE or CE and UK(NI)
mark for Northern Ireland.
• Explanations of all product and material
standards hENs (now known as UK
Designated Standards) that are relevant to
rooflights and roof windows along with their
current status.
• Specific information relating to glass
rooflights which are not subject to hENs / UK
Designated Standards.
The document, which NARM says will be of
interest to rooflight specifiers as well as
suppliers of rooflights, is available for free
download from the NARM website:
www.narm.org.uk
“It has been widely reported over the past year
that the UK is facing a roofing materials shortage.
Lead times have become longer for some
products, especially roof tiles – which has been
impacting on building schedules for certain
contractors.
“COVID-19 has placed an immense pressure on
the construction supply chain in the UK. As the 12
month mark approaches since all manufacturing
was forced to close due to national lockdown
restrictions, for many the knock-on effect is still
being felt now. Factories were forced to close
overnight, and all production was halted. As with
the majority of UK businesses, at the outset of the
first COVID-19 lockdown Russell Roof Tiles took
the difficult but necessary decision to suspend all
production and place employees on furlough and
this caused a ripple effect, which is still being felt
months later.
“Despite halting production in March, Russell Roof
Tiles was quickly able to restart in May, once
detailed and safe social distancing measures
were put in place, which has meant that we have
been able to maintain good lead times and fulfil a
growing order book. However, the loss of
production remains a challenge for many, with
some manufacturers not able to resume restarting
as quickly.
“In spite of this, the roofing industry has been
working hard to manufacture as much product as
possible to fulfil the growing demand from
customers and catch up where possible. The
current bounce back is prevalent in housebuilding
with latest Government statistics showing 45,000
homes were completed in the third quarter of
2020 – a 185 per cent increase on the previous
quarter. This includes the increased need for
social housing to meet the Government’s
ambitious targets – so the need for concrete roof
Andrew Hayward, Russell Roof Tiles, MD.
tiles is especially prevalent as a cost effective
and sustainable roofing solution.
“At Russell Roof Tiles, current delivery times are
around six to eight weeks depending on the
product type, colour or profile – but it has been
reported that others in the market may have even
longer lead times, in some cases up to 22 weeks.
Delayed production means a delay in delivery
times and each part of the construction supply
chain is trying to meet this growing demand.
“When the UK entered a second national
lockdown in November 2020 and the
consequent Tier system in December, the
construction industry remained open while
following public health advice. This meant that
manufacturers, like us, were able to operate
safely and continue production to meet the
growing demand for roof tiles.
“As the need is currently strong we would
encourage contractors, developers and specifiers
to engage with the manufacturers early in the
project to ensure that their specific roof tile
requirements are met – especially if planning
permissions need to be met. The earlier the
specification and scheduling process begins, the
easier it will be to fulfil demand.
“Throughout the pandemic, Russell Roof Tiles has
been prepared for a number of scenarios including
resource, expansion, alternative supply and stock
holding, and is well placed to meet demand. In
essence, the roof tile industry is playing catch up
after a significant period of disrupted production –
but the capacity is strong and normal supply will
soon be resumed moving forward.”
14 TC MARCH 2021

Fixfast launches state of the art
UK manufacturing facility.
MADE IN THE UK
Fixfast has invested in its Maximum Reliability, Minimum Fuss promise with the addition
of a cutting-edge manufacturing facility in Kent. Our increased local production capacity
means you can be sure you’ll get the fasteners you need when you need them.
T: +44 1732 882387 | E: sales@fixfast.com | W:fixfast.com/manufacturing

Roof Tube: Video Content
PRESS PLAY ON QUALITY CONTENT
FOR YOUR SECTOR...
Roof Tube is the new platform for digital content from the leading players in your sector.
Easily accessible on any device, Roof Tube is packed full and constantly updated with
practical, informative and entertaining video content, including how-to’s; project and
product focuses; installation advice; training and webinars; plus interviews and opinions
from those operating throughout the roofing, cladding and associated sectors.
SPRA has launched
its new Small Roofs Training
module which will test your
knowledge and understanding
of basic single ply roofing
Find out more about the EJOT
Iso-Corner, an installation angle
made of polyurethane hard foam
for the planned attachment of
add-on parts to ETIC systems
E
TUBE
PRACTICAL VIDEOS
INSTALLATION ADVICE
STEP BY STEP GUIDANCE
THE ONLINE
COMMUNITY FOR
ROOFING AND
CLADDING
INDUSTRY
16 T C MARCH 2021 ESSENTIAL READING FOR ROOFING, CLADDING & INSULATION CONTRACTORS

Find out more about
Fixfast’s multi-million
pound investment in a
new manufacturing and
R&D cell in Kent
The team at
Weatherfast explain
how the WeatherFOLD
Gutter Lining System can
help those operating on
refurbishment projects
So head over to www.roof-tube.co.uk to view all these videos and so much more, or
if you’d like to make the most of your digital content, contact Andy or Jake on
01892 732 047 to put your company and products in front of your potential customers.
FIND US AT WWW.ROOF-TUBE.CO.UK
ESSENTIAL READING FOR ROOFING, CLADDING & INSULATION CONTRACTORS
MARCH 2021 T C 17

NFRC Roofing Focus
POSITIVE SIGNS FOLLOWING RESULTS
FROM NFRC’S NEW SECTOR SURVEY
James Talman discusses the NFRC’s new quarterly trade survey in partnership with
Glenigan – the first of its kind specifically for the roofing and cladding sector – which will
provide “regular and timely data on our industry’s performance each quarter”.
There are various industry tracking surveys
in construction – such as the Office for
National Statistics (ONS)’ construction
output data, the IHS Markit/CIPS Construction
PMI, and many others published by trade
federations. However, up until now, there hasn’t
been one looking specifically at the roofing and
cladding industry. Indeed, there is very little
industry data on our sector at all, except for one
or two expensive reports produced by market
research companies.
We are trying to
change that –
and it is why
NFRC decided to
partner with
Glenigan to
produce a
quarterly State
of the Roofing
Industry survey,
looking at workloads, enquiries, employment
levels, material shortages and payment terms in
our sector. This data can be used by contractors
to benchmark their performance against the
industry average, by suppliers to help with
forecasting, and by government to inform policy.
Roofing contractors reporting growth
across all sectors
The good news is that the first report, which
covered Q4 of 2020, showed growing workloads
across all sectors, despite the many challenges
facing our industry at the moment, with 41 per
cent reporting a rise in workloads versus 12 per
cent reporting a decline. The growth was mostly
driven by the Repair, Maintenance and
Improvement (RM&I) market – both
domestic (36 per cent overall
balance) and commercial (28 per
cent balance). This confirms the
feedback from our members that
many roofing contractors were flat
out at the end of the last year, trying
to make up for lost time.
Enquiries are rising too
However, almost one in three (29 per cent) also
saw a rise in enquiries, which indicates that the
heightened
workloads
were perhaps
more than
just pent-up
demand. This
was again
driven by RMI,
with over half
(52 per cent) of contractors reporting that
enquiries were up in the domestic RMI market,
and a third (33 per cent) reporting this for the
non-residential public RMI.
Some cautious optimism for the first
quarter, but even higher for the year
ahead
Unsurprisingly, based on positive enquiries, just
under one in five (37 per cent) of roofing
contractors are expecting their workloads to grow
over the first quarter of this year, on the previous
one, against 16 per cent who expect a fall. When
asked for their expectations over the next year,
contractors were even more optimistic with just
under half (49 per cent) predicting growth against
James Talman, Chief Executive of NFRC.
18 per cent expecting contraction.
The sector which is expected to
grow the most over the next 12
months, is commercial RMI (59
per cent).
Employment levels increased on the
previous quarter but were still down by three per
cent on the previous year. If workloads continue
as they have done we expect this to return to pre-
COVID levels shortly. This has also meant roofing
contractors are experiencing skill shortages with
44 per cent reporting that it is harder to recruit.
Indeed, labour shortages were ranked as the third
top concern for contractors in 2021. We know that
our industry hasn’t been attracting enough people
into it for too long – that is why NFRC will soon be
launching a brand new careers strategy to help
tackle these shortages.
So, after a turbulent 2020, roofing contractors
ended the year on a high. However, that is not to
say they aren’t expecting challenges in 2021–
notably from material shortages and ongoing
COVID-19 restrictions impacting the wider
economy. Inflationary pressures are expected to
be a big concern, with material and labour both
expected to see higher prices this year.
This survey will monitor these trends and the
wider performance of the industry throughout the
year, so for the first time we will have regular and
timely data on our industry’s performance each
quarter.
Contact NFRC
www.nfrc.co.uk
@TheNFRC
18 TC MARCH 2021

Opinion
THE CHALLENGES FACING ROOFING
By Richard Bostock, Social Housing Business Director at Avonside Group.
As the recently appointed Social Housing
Business Director for Avonside Group,
Richard Bostock says he is looking forward
to contributing towards his business’ strategic
long-term growth, however, he is also acutely
aware of the challenges and difficulties the
roofing industry currently faces.
As Richard points out, the challenges arrive from
many angles, be it lack of materials, increasing
cost base, Brexit uncertainties, environmental
issues and, of course, the COVID-19 pandemic
that has impacted everyone’s working life. Below
he discusses these in more detail and gives his
perspective on where the sector stands:
Best availability vs best choice for client
Dealing with the lack of materials, it’s true to say
that since the middle of 2019 the extended lead
time for roof tiles and components has probably
been the biggest single factor
affecting every Roofing
Contractor in the UK. With
lead times at an
unprecedented high,
Contractors are now
having to order
product several
months in advance –
and often selecting tiles
on the basis of best
availability. This may not be the
best tile for the Client, but particularly in
the social re-roofing market there are budgets to
expend, and very often a compromise on tile is
the only way to achieve this.
We are currently starting to see shortages
creeping into other supply chains such as batten
and membranes, which only contributes to the
difficulties Contractors face on a daily basis.
Inevitably, the squeeze on material supply has led
to robust price increase demands, and
organisations are having to deal with
some very awkward questions
with Clients just to ensure supply
is maintained and margins do
not erode.
Continued investment in
apprenticeship and training is
essential
As ever, maintaining a core of qualified and
skilled labour remains a challenge, and
investment in apprenticeships and training has
never been as important. After a period of
uncertainty and change like most of us have
never before experienced, many companies might
be tempted to reduce or re-allocate budgets given
to this area, however it is now more important
than ever that we invest in our future workforce
and equip them with the skills they need to
deliver high quality roofing well into the future.
Many roofing businesses,
particularly those that operate
in the re-roofing market, will
be aware of their impact
on the environment,
particularly their
obligations towards
protected wildlife species
whilst undertaking their work.
The penalties for breaking the
laws covering protected species are
high and wide reaching, and Contractors need to
remain vigilant and ensure their operatives on the
roof are also aware of their own actions.
Beyond COVID-19
It’s unlikely that anyone has escaped the effect of
the COVID-19 pandemic, either personally or in
their working life. Many of us have now become
used to working remotely, often whilst caring for
youngsters, and operating within social
distancing guidelines when we are able to meet
Richard Bostock, Avonside Group.
in person. Although there are
benefits to the virtual platforms
that many of us now use on a
daily basis, the impact on a
business in having a largely
remote workforce is significant and
can bring a lack of cohesion that can affect
innovation, training and morale in the longer
term. The strength of any business lies in its
people and safeguarding the health of our
workforces remains our number one priority, and
presents challenges to Managers daily, dealing
with safe working practices, staff shortages and
potential outbreaks.
Conclusion
To conclude on a positive note, the UK now has a
vaccine rollout in full swing, and business levels
remain solid. The roofing sector has faced
challenges in the past 12 months that it could
never have envisaged, however the survivors may
have taken the opportunity to review their
business, restructuring if necessary, to be better
placed to take advantage of the opportunities
ahead. With the country working towards its
carbon reduction targets, there are exciting
opportunities for the renewable energy sector
including battery storage solutions, and we
remain hopeful that the overall supply chain will
strengthen, lead times will fall, and Contractors
can return to operating within their more normal
parameters during this year.
Businesses – such as Avonside Group – that
have been forward investing in key areas of skills
development and targeted sectors will be better
positioned to take advantage of future
opportunities as they arise.
Contact Avonside Group
www.avonsidegroup.co.uk
@AvonsideGroup
20 TC MARCH 2021

SOLUTIONS
WE’RE
ALL EARS
Now more than ever, whatever you need
from technical advice to the latest products
to provide ventilation solutions for your roof
design, we’re here for you. Just ask.
call us: 01327 701910
www.hambleside-danelaw.co.uk
40+ YEARS OF ROOFING INNOVATION
For further inf
formation
or a hire quotation call
Email: sales@co
oker
erhire.com
www.cooke
erhire.com
MARCH 2021 TC 21

Institute of Roofing
HOW LEARNING CAN HELP WITH
YOUR MENTAL HEALTH
Stuart Hicks, CEO of the Institute of Roofing (IOR), discusses the role of learning in
improving mental wellbeing and outlines what training and support is available.
Looking after our mental health has never
been more important. The impact of the
COVID-19 pandemic has made life more
challenging and stressful than ever before, and
research shows that this is having an adverse
effect on our wellbeing. A survey carried out last
year by mental health charity, Mind, revealed that
more than half of adults and over two thirds of
young people felt their mental health had
deteriorated during lockdown.
As the pandemic continues to affect our everyday
lives and with uncertain times still ahead, finding
ways to manage and improve mental health is
crucial.
The power of learning
As recommended by the NHS, gaining a new skill
is one important step you can take to improve
mental wellbeing. This stems from research which
revealed the positive effects of learning. Not only
can it help to boost self-confidence and build a
sense of purpose, but it can help people to cope
better with stress and become more motivated.
At the moment, days can seem long,
unproductive and unstructured. Setting a new
goal can offer a sense of achievement, the
chance for some positivity, and a way to connect
with others albeit digitally.
A new skill could take many forms and be as
simple as learning a new recipe or alternatively,
there are many online courses available that
could also help.
Opportunities for learning
Developing knowledge is a key part of what the
Institute does, and we’re working hard to
maintain that level of momentum within our
industry, to encourage people to train to a certain
level, learn new skills and enhance
their CVs. This is especially
important during the current
climate as job uncertainty and
competition for new roles has
increased during the turbulence of
the pandemic.
In addition to providing industry-specific
training, the IOR’s online member benefits portal
also offers a huge range of courses in categories
including creative arts and media, nature and
environment, life skills, technology and health
and psychology – to name just a few.
They provide an extensive range of opportunities
to learn all sorts of different skills which can be
applied at home or in the workplace. For example,
some of the most popular online courses
currently cover topics including Construction
Quality Management, Foundations of Project
Management, Excel Skills for Business, and How
Financial Wellness Reduces Stress.
Members are also encouraged to use the portal’s
tools to share the information and knowledge with
colleagues, family and friends.
Specialist training
As anxiety increases as a result of the pandemic,
exploring opportunities for more specialist training
is another option. There is a variety of guidance
available online offering support specifically in
relation to coping with the impact of COVID-19.
For example, one of the courses available through
the IOR’s portal focuses on managing mental
health during COVID-19.
Offered by the University of Toronto, the course
takes around three hours to complete. It aims to
give people a deeper understanding of anxiety
Stuart Hicks, CEO of the Institute of Roofing.
and how the brain reacts to crises.
Clear strategies are provided for
managing and turning off the
anxiety response for short periods.
Topics covered include achieving
relaxation, mental distraction,
managing news consumption, guarding
against depression and the importance of control.
There is also a course on helping young people with
anxiety. This includes advice on how to identify
anxiety disorders experienced by young people and
understand stigma related to mental health.
Additional support
Learning is just one way to help improve mental
health. There is lots of information online offering
further guidance. Many charities such as Mind,
Time to Change, and Rethink Mental Illness, offer
free resources to support business owners and
individuals. These can range from fact sheets
and action plans through to ideas for activities
and specialist toolkits.
The FSB (The Federation of Small Businesses)
has also launched COVID-19 advice and guidance
for SMEs and the self-employed. This includes
various checklists to help people look after their
mental health.
In addition, Mates in Mind, a charity which
promotes positive mental wellbeing across
workplaces, offers a remote working checklist
including the latest updates and guidance around
best workplace practice. The charity has also
produced Homeworking Mental Health Tips.
Contact Institute of Roofing
www.instituteofroofing.org
@Official_IOR
22 TC MARCH 2021

Specify
responsibly
Wraptite ®
Construction membranes may be hidden after the project is complete, but their role in
ensuring proper heat, air and moisture movement through the building envelope and
safeguarding the health of the building and occupants is essential.
Wraptite is a unique BBA-certified external airtightness solution for walls and roofs.
This membrane not only provides airtightness and vapour-permeability, its self-adhering
installation method reduces programme length, installation costs and material waste.
Specify responsibly:
It’s what’s on the inside that counts.
01250 872261
www.proctorgroup.com

Support Tools
MANUFACTURER SUPPORT: WHY IT’S
MORE IMPORTANT THAN EVER...
With roofing contractors having to quickly adapt their businesses to respond to the
challenges of COVID-19, manufacturer support is more important than ever. In this
article Daniel Redfern, from Marley, discusses the free tools and services available to
help roofers reduce risk, save time and boost revenue.
Roofing contractors across the country have
had to rapidly adapt their businesses to
operate in the midst of a global pandemic.
If you go back just over a year ago, to the start of
2020, no-one would have predicted the scale and
speed of the challenges that would hit the whole
construction sector. From lockdowns, furlough,
and demand fluctuation to the implementation of
Covid-secure measures, testing and self-isolation
procedures.
The pandemic has changed the way that
businesses operate, as well as the way they
communicate with customers and the supply
chain. Training and skills development has been
limited throughout the pandemic and labour
shortages continue to be a concern.
Yet, despite these ongoing challenges, the roofing
industry appears to be very busy. Indeed, a recent
survey from the NFRC found that workloads were
up in all roofing sectors in the last quarter of
2020 and more firms expect workloads to
increase in 2021, rather than decrease.
This means that support from manufacturers is
more important than ever before. That’s why we
have launched our new ‘Supporting The Roofer’
campaign, to help contractors spend less time on
admin and more time earning money on roofs. We
want to help make their lives easier and safer, as
well as help their businesses to thrive during and
after the pandemic.
Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, we
have noticed more roofers accessing our online
support – whether that is through our website,
app, or social channels. So we have packaged all
of our support tools and advice into one area of
our website, specifically for roofers –
whether they need installation
advice, guidance on new standards,
safety information or contact details for our
technical team. Everything is all in one
place, so they can access what they
need, when they need it. This support is
focussed on three key areas:
Safety information
It goes without saying that the health and
safety of roofers, both on and off site, is
the most important thing. We will be
providing information throughout the year
on the best ways to lower the risks of
working on site – from important safety
information on COVID operating procedures and
working in the winter, to Safe in the Sun advice
and links to mental health support.
Business support
We’ve added tools and products to help
contractors advertise their businesses, add extra
revenue streams, save time and reduce the cost
of call-backs.
Free installer locator tool: We’ve launched a
new installer locator tool which puts contractors’
businesses in front of the thousands of
homeowners that visit our site monthly. They can
simply fill in the form to help attract new
business leads in their local area.
Extra income streams: New products, such as
Marley SolarTile, can help roofers add extra
revenue streams and make the most of the huge
growth potential in solar PV due to new Part L
regulations.
Complete roof systems: The ability to
source all products from one
manufacturer makes installation much
quicker and easier for contractors,
reduces the time wasted in call
backs and comes with a 15-year
guarantee.
Quick access to technical support
and advice: Whatever the query, experts
are there to help, either online or over the
phone.
Installation and technical help
We’ve included free installation, specification
and technical tools and guidance.
Installation videos and guides: Extensive fixing
guides and videos to ensure that installing our
roof systems is as seamless as possible.
Online technical tools: Contractors can get a
fixing specification or an estimate quickly and
easily, as well as request free samples for them
or their customers.
Updates on the latest regulations: This helps
roofers stay up to date with the latest changes to
roofing standards.
Roofing sitework guide: Our popular Sitework
Guide app, or printed copy, can be accessed from
the website and gives contractors a roofing expert
in their pocket at any time of day or night.
Contact Marley
01283 722588
www.marley.co.uk/supportingtheroofer
@MarleyLtd
24 TC MARCH 2021

INSTA STIK
TM
FOR ROOFING
CONTRACTORS
Bonding insulation to decks for over 25 years – the original and
still the best insulation to VCL adhesive –
available from InStar
• BRE tested to in excess of 9.64kPa bond strength* – reducing
risk of wind uplift failure
• Controlled rise height – no waiting for expansion to grab
• Full adhesion within 20 to 45 minutes – speeding installation
• Controlled bead width installation – minimising waste
• Simple to use – freeing your most skilled staff to focus elsewhere
• Fast application – cold applied straight out of the can
• Can be used vertically – one adhesive for the roof
• Primer free – one less product to apply
*Test Report Number 222-707 “For a 20m high building in the London area the maximum wind suction
in the corner area of a roof would be about 1.5kPa. For the same building on the coast in a rural area in
northern Scotland the equivalent value would be about 4kPa.”
Insta Stik is available in 3 easy
to use packages:
• 13.5 kg Tanks covering
approximately 100m²
• 750 ml Handy Can covering
up to 14m² per can
• Contractor Pack
containing 5 x 750ml Handy
Cans, an Applicator Gun and
a 500ml Gun Cleaner covering
up to 70m² per packk.
Suitable for use with:
PIR, Stonewool, EPS, Cellular glass, and cork insulation boards, including wood fibre. Bonds to
existing bitumen felt, sanded bitumen and foil faced VCL’s, Asphalt, concrete, steel and timber.
For more details please visit: www.instar-uk.co.uk
or contact T: + 44 (0)1858 456949 E-mail: info@instar-uk.co.uk

Roofing Battens:
SUPPORT ON SITE AND AT COLLEGE
SR Timber is at the heart of an industry drive to support the next generation of roofers, and
donates batches of its Premium Gold roofing batten to colleges when it can. Ross Hepburn,
Roof Slating and Tiling Lecturer at South Lanarkshire College, talks about the importance of
using quality materials and gives an insight into some of the key aspects of batten
installation that the college teaches its apprentices.
As a qualified roofer who is a lecturer but is
also still on the tools, one of the main
things I drill into the apprentices is getting
into good habits from day one. I can’t emphasise
enough how important that is – which is why
donations of materials from the likes of SR
Timber are so vitally important because students
get to know what it’s like to work with quality,
British Standard materials. The donation we
received last year has greatly benefited our
students.
The most important lesson
We’re very clear about quality and standards,
and, when it comes to batten, we open the topic
with the following:
“BS 5534 is the code of practice for installing
slates and tiles to new-build pitched roofs and
vertical cladding. All battens and counter-battens
must conform to BS 5534:2014+A2:2018, which
prescribes minimum sizes and tolerances. Using
ungraded battens, which are not prescribed in the
code of practice, poses a serious safety hazard,
as they may not be able to support the weight of
the fully slated/tiled roof.”
A guide to graded batten
We then move on to the hands-on element of the
lesson, where we look at the characteristics of
graded batten. We look at the allowable
characteristics and defects, with knots and knot
holes being one of the key factors. We tell them
what the rules state about knots or knot holes –
especially around being either larger or smaller
than 5mm. We also cover other visible defects
that should be considered in conjunction with
BS 5534.
Another aspect is to establish what the
four markings on graded batten
actually mean. They are:
1. Supplier identification
2. Origin (imported or British
grown, and/or species code)
3. ‘Graded BS 5534’
4. Size
What we make very clear is that battens without
markings are NOT fit for roof work!
Fixing, cutting and jointing batten
For fixing, we tell them that batten nails should
always be of the approved type for the material
used and should be sized to suit the application,
with a diameter generally no less than 3.35 mm.
Battens should be continuous over no less than
three supports and should never be cantilevered
or spliced between supports.
For cutting, we say that batten should not be cut
at penetrations and terminations such as valleys
without the provision of suitable support to the
ends.
And for jointing, they are told that butt joints over
intermediate supports should be staggered. And
when cut and joined on the rafter, the battens
should have no more than one joint in four
courses on the same rafter for gauges over 200
mm or three joints in 12 courses for gauges below
200 mm.
Battens on a verge
The last of the key points to cover around batten
is verges, and we go through the fact that they
should only expose the pre-treated ends of the
Left: Ross Hepburn is Roof Slating and Tiling
Lecturer at South Lanarkshire College.
“One of the
main things I
drill into the
apprentices is
getting into good
habits from day one”
batten at the verge. Alternatively, if the battens
are cut, they must be treated with a suitable
preservative, which should be dry before the
timber is used. However, they are advised to
always check the preservative manufacturer’s
guidance, as the performance and durability of
different types of underlay and insulation can be
affected by the preservative.
It’s important that we spend time covering these
points clearly in a teaching environment, and it
makes a world of difference that we can have
quality materials like Premium Gold so that the
students can see for themselves all the points we
cover – such as knots and the general condition
of the batten.
And it’s thanks to the generosity of suppliers
such as SR Timber that our students get to work
with the correct materials, which should hopefully
set them up for life, knowing that they should
always use quality, compliant and sustainable
materials.
Contact SR Timber
www.sr-timber.co.uk
@SR_Timber_
26 TC MARCH 2021

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MARCH 2021 TC 27

Perfectly Pitched
CONTROLLING THE RISK OF
CONDENSATION IN LOFT SPACES
In his latest consultant case study, Technical Roofing Consultant John Mercer tackles the
causes of condensation in loft spaces and explains how to treat and prevent the problem.
During the winter months I often receive
enquiries regarding condensation
problems in loft spaces, and this year has
been no exception. But it’s important to point out
that often, excessive condensation in the roof
space will be a one-off event, and here is why:
Firstly, a recap; the ability of air to hold moisture
reduces as it cools, and it will then deposit the
moisture onto cold surfaces in the form of
condensation. For example, in a two-storey house
with a floorplan of 100m², there is around 420 cu
metres of air, which, at 20 degrees could
potentially hold up to 8.4 litres of water vapour. If
this warm air passes through the ceiling into the
roof space and cools down to 10 degrees, it can
then only hold 3.4 litres of water vapour. This
means that 5 litres of water will be deposited
somewhere if it is not allowed to escape from the
roof space. It may not be as dramatic as that in
practice, but it illustrates the potential risks.
In many cases, though not all, the problem of
condensation appears in newly built or renovated
properties. When construction works are
completed, the various building
materials must dry out and for
some, such as concrete,
plaster, brickwork and
blockwork, there is a lot of
water to be removed. To
assist in the drying out, the
heating is switched on to drive the
process. This can result in an overload
of water vapour in the air which must be
removed. Inevitably, some finds its way through
the ceiling into the roof space and then cools,
causing condensation to appear on cold surfaces
such as the underlay.
Essentially, the ways we can control the risk of
condensation build-up in the roofspace are to 1)
remove it at source; 2) prevent water vapour from
reaching the loft space in the first place; or 3)
remove it once it gets there and before it has a
chance to build up to harmful levels.
Removing water vapour at source
Simple measures like opening windows during the
drying out period can help remove excess water
John Mercer, Technical Roofing Consultant.
vapour. Kitchens and bathrooms
usually have extraction fans,
though dehumidifiers can be
placed in the worst affected
areas during the drying out
phase.
Preventing water vapour
passing from the living areas
To prevent as much water vapour as possible
passing from the living space into the cold roof
space, it is necessary to install effective vapour
barriers in the ceiling construction. It is difficult, if
not impossible, to construct a totally air and
vapour-tight ceiling, so British Standard BS 9250
gives guidance on minimising air leakage through
junctions and penetrations such as light fittings,
loft hatches etc. to create a ‘continuous’ ceiling.
Greater thermal efficiency is achieved, and the
risk of condensation reduced if we prevent air
leakage through the ceiling. This is certainly
possible to achieve in new buildings, though it
can be more difficult in existing buildings.
“In the unlikely event that condensation
persists in a cold roof, it may be necessary to fit
extra tile ventilators”
Preventing condensation in the roof space
If we can prevent as much water vapour from
reaching the roof space as possible, the rest can
be taken care of by ventilation of the loft space,
28 TC MARCH 2021

or vapour-permeable underlay, or a combination
of both.
Warm to cold roof illustration.
Vapour-permeable and air-permeable roofing
underlays are hugely beneficial in helping to
prevent harmful levels of condensation from
building up in the roof space. However, it is
important to use these products correctly, in
accordance with the guidance given in BS 5250
and following the underlay manufacturer’s
installation recommendations.
Whether the cause of excess water vapour is due
to construction materials drying out, or the
lifestyle and number of occupants, the problem is
exacerbated during the winter months when the
outside air is cold and there is little air
movement. Of course, the occupants are less
likely to want to open windows in cold weather,
which will further impede the dissipation of water
vapour from the living spaces. Surprisingly, a
problem I often come across is that the
occupants, having spotted the condensation in
the loft when they go up there to get the
Christmas tree, then leave the loft hatch open to
try and dry the loft out. This can make the
problem worse, as far more water vapour is then
freely allowed to pass from the living space into
the cold loft space and cool, depositing more
condensation.
Building Regulations and BS 5250 recognise that
condensation may occur for a period during
adverse climatic and internal conditions. It is
common to see temporary overloads of
condensation appearing on the underlay, which
dissipates within a few days with no harm done –
usually during very cold but still weather
conditions. Though any condensation must not be
severe enough to cause damp or staining on
internal surfaces or cause damage to the
structure generally. If the ceilings, underlay and
any recommended additional roof space
ventilation are correctly installed, then it is
unlikely that condensation within the roof
structure will be a regular or harmful problem
once the initial drying out phase has passed.
In the unlikely event that condensation persists in
“Only fit extra roof
space ventilation as a
last resort, as
excessive cold air
reduces the thermal
efficiency of
insulation”
a cold roof, it may be necessary to fit extra tile
ventilators. The location of the ventilators
depends on several factors such as roof geometry
and pitch, but as a simple guide, fit some in the
tile courses just above the horizontal insulation at
each side of the roof to aid crossflow ventilation.
Additional ventilators at high level would act to
draw air in through the lower ventilators. Only fit
extra roof space ventilation as a last resort, as
excessive cold air reduces the thermal efficiency
of insulation.
It is even more unlikely for excessive
condensation to occur in a correctly installed
warm roof construction. Venting a completed
warm roof would be extremely difficult, if not
impossible, therefore the way to solve a
condensation problem would be to provide
measures to remove water vapour at source,
such as additional extractor fans or
dehumidifiers.
Have you got a pitched roofing query or topic you’d like
John to discuss? Email mattdowns@media-now.co.uk or
contact John on the details below:
Contact John Mercer
www.johnmercerconsultant.co.uk
@Johnmercer3
Summary:
•Often, excessive condensation
accumulating in a correctly installed roof
will be a one-time event as building
materials dry out. Make sure the building
is well ventilated and use dehumidifiers
to remove excess water vapour.
• Temporary and occasional
condensation events on underlay are not
necessarily harmful so long as it quickly
dissipates without causing harm to other
surfaces such as timber, insulation, or
ceilings.
• Follow the manufacturer’s advice
when installing permeable underlays and
take note of recommendations regarding
roof space ventilation.
• Only fit extra roof space ventilation as
a last resort, as excessive cold air
reduces the thermal efficiency of
insulation.
MARCH 2021 TC 29

Roofing Membranes & Ventilation:
ONE SIZE DOES NOT FIT ALL...
By John Mellor, Senior Product Manager at Glidevale Protect.
Specifying pitched roofing underlays for new
build or refurbishment projects is often a
confusing subject with so many options
available on the market, each offering a variety of
technical attributes and performance credentials.
Required in virtually all tile and slate pitched roof
construction, an underlay should be designed as
a true hidden protector, operating as the
secondary line of defence to the roof tiles, offering
weather defence against wind driven rain or snow
and wind uplift resistance to the loading
pressures applied to the structure in accordance
with BS 5534. However, with the roofing underlay
often specified in isolation, the integral link
between the type of membrane
specified and the controlled
ventilation strategy that
needs to be employed
to manage
condensation risk is
often forgotten.
Roofing underlays
and ventilation must
work simultaneously to
deliver a full solution that
provides a watertight structure
and avoids condensation build-up within the
roofspace, ultimately leading to a healthy indoor
living environment. The choice of underlay for any
pitched roof impacts the amount of ventilation
required to eliminate harmful condensation so
selecting a manufacturer well versed in offering
the appropriate guidance along with an array of
solutions is paramount. Choice is the
all-important factor here rather than a ‘one size
fits all’ approach, with the membrane an integral
component as part of the overall solution. Even if
there are cost restraints for the overall roof
package, using the cheapest membrane without
factoring in additional ventilation requirements
may result in problems and expensive structural
repairs. Getting it right first time means homes
Above: Protect VP300 vapour permeable (type LR) roofing underlay. Left: Glidevale in-line tile ventilator.
can be future-proofed,
maintaining their
property values and
ensuring reduced
maintenance costs.
The need to ventilate
within housing has never
been more important. With the
onset of climate change and the
ongoing commitment by the UK Government
to bring all greenhouse gas emissions to Net Zero
by 2050, energy efficiency is top of the agenda
with Building Regulations set to become more
onerous by lowering U-value notional targets.
Regulations and standards
As well as updates to Building Regulations
Approved Document Part L (conservation of fuel
and power) and Part F (ventilation), as recently
announced by the Government after the initial
consultation process, changes are also expected
in 2021 to BS 5250, the code of practice for
control of condensation in buildings. Uplift
improvements to these regulations in 2021 form
the transition to the Future Homes Standard, set
to vastly improve energy efficiency in new build
properties, which will be introduced by 2025.
Additionally, the recent new charter for social
housing residents, launched by the Government,
commits to reviewing the current Decent Homes
Standard to support the decarbonisation of social
homes. This means, as homes are designed with a
fabric first approach and therefore increased
airtightness, it is vital to balance this with the
correct ventilation strategy, protecting against the
excessive build-up of moisture and pollutants. This
includes the roof, where it is key to have an
appropriate combination of underlay and ventilation
provision, particularly if the loft is a liveable space.
So, with the undoubted importance of ensuring
ventilation is provided into dwellings, what
different categories of membrane are available
and how does this impact on the ventilation
requirements for each, whether cold or warm roof?
LR: vapour permeable and airtight
Starting with vapour permeable or low resistance
(type LR) products, two types of underlays are
available in today’s market. Firstly, the
traditional LR product is airtight but allows water
vapour to disperse into the atmosphere. For a
cold roof solution on a dwelling sized roof,
30 TC MARCH 2021

Above left: Protect Viking Air air & vapour permeable (type LR) roofing underlay (credit Prentice Roofing); Above: Protect A1 T3 Plus vapour impermeable (type HR) roofing underlay.
BS 5250 recommends the combination of a
vapour permeable, airtight underlay with highlevel
ventilation of 5000mm²/m through tile or
ridge vents, whether a well-sealed or normal
ceiling is in place (for both). Alternatively, where
there is a well-sealed ceiling, a ventilation
provision of only 3000mm²/m at low level is
required, however, for re-roofing projects where a
normal ceiling may be in place that is not likely to
be airtight, ventilation at low level should be
increased to 7000mm²/m. In warm roof
construction where the loft area has been
designed for a habitable space and thus the
insulation is laid at rafter level, the use of an
airtight and vapour permeable underlay will not
require any additional ventilation, subject to a
well-sealed ceiling and an air and vapour control
layer (AVCL) being installed on the warm side of
the insulation. If there is doubt about the ability to
provide an effectively sealed ceiling and an AVCL
at specification stage, further ventilation should
be planned into the design and the chosen
manufacturer should provide suitable guidance.
LR: air and vapour permeable
The second type of LR underlay is both air and
vapour permeable, allowing ventilation to be
delivered into the roof space due to its special
meltblown technology designed within the
membrane core. This ensures airflow through the
material and allows vapour to escape, helping to
control the risk of condensation. For these
product types, specification should be made for
underlays which are also hydrophobically treated
in order to repel water to offer added protection.
Whilst an air-permeable underlay may involve
higher initial material costs, this is offset by no
additional requirement to ventilate, saving time
and labour on installation. Whether a cold or warm
roof, air and vapour permeable membranes can be
used without additional ventilation. This is accepted
by the NHBC in their Technical Requirements R3
Document related to cold roof construction. The
only exceptions are where the underlay is
installed on closed jointed sarking board or if an
airtight roof covering is used, such as metal tiles
or fibre cement slates. In this case, it would be
necessary to ventilate the batten space with
25mm counter battens. The chosen manufacturer
should always recommend a well-sealed ceiling
and separate AVCL is used, where achievable.
HR: vapour impermeable and airtight
The third category of pitched roofing underlays is
vapour impermeable or high resistance (type HR)
membranes which are also airtight, where the
diffusion of water vapour is prevented from
travelling through the material. Designed to
overcome the disadvantages of traditional type 1F
felts, type HR membranes are generally the most
cost-effective when viewed in isolation of just the
membrane, however this must be balanced
against the requirement for additional high- and
low-level ventilation for both a cold and warm
roof. This extra ventilation provision is imperative
to avoid the risk of interstitial condensation
forming on the underside of the underlay. As an
example, for dwelling sized cold roofs with pitches
over 15 degrees, a minimum of 10,000mm²/m of
ventilation is required at low level, in addition to
5,000mm²/m at high level. For pitches over 35
degrees or spans in excess of 10m, an additional
5000mm²/m of ventilation is required. For warm
roofs, where HR underlays are being used, both
high- and low- level ventilation is also needed.
The chosen manufacturer should provide relevant
ventilation guidance on a project specific basis.
With the undoubted synergy between roofing
underlay choice and ventilation, it is vital that a
manufacturer is selected who can advise on the
full solution, ensuring the roof is future proofed.
Glidevale Protect can provide full coverage of all
underlay types described along with a
comprehensive choice of ventilation options for
the whole roof structure, including ridge, eaves
and tile vents. The company’s motto of ‘Build
Tight, Ventilate Right’ seems more relevant than
ever, providing specifiers with the reassurance
that the roof can be fully protected whilst
achieving the required airflow into the property.
For guidance on the most appropriate roof underlay
and ventilation combination for your project, please
contact Glidevale Protect’s Technical team on:
Contact Glidevale Protect
technical@glidevaleprotect.com
www.choiceiseverything.co uk
0161 905 5700
MARCH 2021 TC 31

Construction Membranes:
A QUICK REFERENCE
The A. Proctor Group outlines the key points to take into
consideration when working with construction membranes.
When it comes to selecting and installing
construction membranes, a reminder of
the building physics involved and how
membranes contribute to healthy indoor
environments can help.
Membranes manage moisture
Moisture is a good place to start. The building
envelope must contend with moisture from all
sides: the inside – cooking, showering, the
outside – rain, snow, and from the ground below
– damp. If moisture movement from any of these
directions is not considered fully, problems like
interstitial condensation, mould growth, and
serious structural damage to the building fabric
can occur.
Proper moisture management does not
automatically mean “blocking” moisture
movement. Moisture blocking definitely needs to
happen in certain areas, such as along
foundations with the help of damp-proofing
vapour impermeable membranes which block
moisture rising from the soil. But in other cases,
membranes are there to provide safe passage for
moisture to escape the building envelope. For
example, the vapour permeability of wall breather
membranes are key to the proper ‘drying out’ of
new builds.
Membranes manage air movement
Just as construction membranes can be either
vapour permeable or vapour impermeable, they
are also either air permeable or air impermeable.
Once a project’s moisture sources and loads are
taken into account, it is easy to see how the
blocking or releasing of moisture from the building
envelope can be supported by a membrane that
can also block or enable the movement of air.
Typical vapour control layers (VCLs), for example,
are both air and vapour impermeable. With these
double-blocking properties, they are ideal for
preventing moisture from moving into interstitial
building fabric spaces from the interior. As a
result, VCLs are always placed on the warm side
of the insulation. Conversely, the best cold pitched
roof underlays are both air and vapour permeable.
The addition of air permeability to a highly vapour
permeable membrane makes it as easy as
possible for water vapour to escape the roof space
and reduces the risk of condensation compared to
membranes that are only vapour permeable.
Next generation membranes
So far, we have looked at membranes that are
either fully permeable to air and moisture
movement (cold pitched roof underlays) or fully
impermeable (typical VCLs). What advantages
might we expect from membranes with different
combinations of permeability, and where would
such membranes be installed?
Variable permeability VCLs, often called ‘intelligent
membranes’, are similar to conventional VCLs in
that they are impermeable to air and are installed
on the warm side of the insulation. The difference
is they can adjust their vapour permeability in
response to environmental humidity levels that
fluctuate normally over the course of the year.
This ability to adapt means variable permeability
VCLs can regulate the drying out of a building,
even when moisture levels rise and fall seasonally.
For example, in colder, wetter months the
membrane becomes more vapour impermeable to
protect the envelope from becoming saturated. In
warmer, drier months the membrane’s vapour
permeability will increase due to the drive from
solar gain allowing the construction to dry out at a
time of year when it is safer to do so.
Another combination – a membrane that has the
airtightness of a VCL and the vapour permeability
of a traditional breather – is rarer but examples do
exist. Installed on the cold side of the insulation in
A. Proctor Group’s construction membrane infographic.
place of traditional wall breathers or warm roof
underlays, airtight vapour permeable membranes
offer distinct advantages from any other
membrane type.
As the airtight line is now external there is no
requirement for a separate airtight layer internally.
This means that the VCL can be used for its
primary purpose of reducing the vapour transfer
into colder parts of the structure. This takes away
the reliance on seals and airtight junctions if not
required as a dual functioning VCL/airtight layer.
Depending on the insulation placement, there may
not be a requirement for a VCL at all with the use
of an external airtight vapour permeable
membrane, but this would need to be proven
through dynamic hygrothermal assessment like a
WUFI calculation. Generally, if one utilises external
insulation outside an airtight vapour permeable
membrane installed on the sheathing, then the
risk of interstitial condensation is reduced. Using a
VCL internally can still be seen as good practice,
but even more important if the insulation is placed
between stud members instead.
Finally, using a membrane that is airtight, vapour
permeable and water resistant enough for use on
walls and roofs also makes achieving a wellsealed,
energy efficient building envelope more
possible than ever. This is particularly attractive to
modern methods of construction where excellent
airtightness and energy efficiency levels are
important.
View A. Proctor Group’s webinar series:
https://www.proctorgroup.com/webinars
32 TC MARCH 2021

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Q&A: Ken Lynes, Fixfast
“PRODUCTS SIMPLY MUST
PERFORM AS DESIGNED”
Ken Lynes, Managing Director at Fixfast, answers our questions
and – amongst other things – discusses the company’s recent UK
investment and what it means for customers, plus talks wider industry
issues, and explains why there’s still more to do when it comes to the messaging
around “putting safety at the heart of what we do in construction.”
TC: Can you tell us a bit about Fixfast,
your offering and the types of projects
your products get used on…
KL: Fixfast is a supplier of quality fasteners for
the building envelope. We serve the flat roofing,
sheeting & cladding, and façades markets.
Established over 45 years ago as a
family business, we’ve grown
to become a leader in the
UK through a
commitment to
excellent customer
service and
technical
leadership.
You’ve recently
opened an
additional UK
manufacturing and R&D
facility in Kent at what is
undoubtedly a difficult time for
construction and the supply chain – what
prompted this move?
Yes, we’re pleased to have shared some good
news during an uncertain time for the industry –
but this investment is part of a long-held strategy
to ensure a reliable supply of quality fasteners to
our customers in the UK.
We’re known for our ‘Maximum Reliability,
Minimum Fuss’ promise, so expanding our UK
manufacturing capability means we can continue
to live up to that promise for a long time to come.
Playing Devil’s Advocate, if I’m an
installer working on a roofing or façade
project, why should I care about the origin
of the fixings and fasteners I’m using?
Above all else, Fixfast exists to continually
improve the way fasteners are made and used in
the construction of better, safer
buildings. Fasteners may be a
small and often hidden
detail, but a building
will only perform for
its full expected
lifetime if the
fasteners holding
it together are of
suitable quality,
correctly specified,
and properly installed.
It’s our job to make sure the
quality of the fastener is as good as
it can be. Our new state-of-the-art facility in Kent
allows us to manufacture to very exacting
standards, and to develop our products in a way
that ensures they’re continually becoming better.
For installers, this means our ‘Maximum
Reliability’ promise isn’t just about delivering the
best service, but it also extends to a quality of the
fastener they can always rely on.
There’s an important environmental consideration
too. Having extra UK manufacturing capacity
reduces our need for international shipping, which
slashes lead times for customers and cuts
Fixfast’s carbon footprint.
Is price still one of the main drivers when
it comes to components for roofing and
cladding projects? If so, how can we
change that mentality?
Price is, and probably always will be, a leading
factor in the selection of products in building
projects. But it’s clear that after Grenfell more
attention is rightly being paid to the quality of
products.
“It’s better to think
more broadly about
cost, as opposed to just
price”
So it’s better to think more broadly about cost, as
opposed to just price. What are the human and
financial costs of a system failure? What’s the
cost to the contractor of having to correct or re-do
work? And what’s the long-term cost to
reputation of not doing it right first time and to the
best possible quality?
Following the Grenfell Inquiry, there’s a
bigger focus on product specification,
origin and traceability of construction
products – have we moved away from the
“any fixing will do” mentality, and is the
message getting through to installers that
you need to use the right fixing for each
individual project?
The message is getting through – but not
everywhere, and not quickly enough. There’s a
bigger picture story here about putting safety at
34 TC MARCH 2021

the heart of what we do – about only working
with products that have been properly tested and
certified.
It starts with specification; the performance
characteristics of the fastener should be
adequately considered at design stage. That
specification then needs to be protected and
supported by the contractor or installer.
And it’s up to manufacturers like us to help each
of these stakeholders to understand why this is
important, and the factors they should be
considering when selecting fasteners.
“We give guidance on
how to install the
fasteners, as this is
where performance is
most often
compromised”
What are some of the most common
mistakes that contractors / installers make
when it comes to the fixing aspects of
projects and ensuring a safe and secure fix?
I think standards are generally high here in the
UK. In our experience, there’s a good level of
craftsmanship and people take pride in the job
they’re doing. But there’s always room to improve
and do things better, so we play our part by
providing support in two particular areas.
Firstly, we offer sales and technical support to
ensure the right fastener is selected for each
project. Multiple factors need to be considered at
this stage of the process – the system being
used, the substrate, the building’s environment,
the grade of steel needed etc.
Secondly, we give guidance on how to install the
fasteners, as this is where performance is most
often compromised. For example, using the wrong
tools, or using them in the wrong way, can impact
the performance of a fastener. We’ve got a strong
focus on raising standards across the industry,
and we’ll soon be announcing an exciting initiative
that will improve on-site installation skills.
The way buildings are designed and built
continues to develop with regards to
performance and aesthetics. How has this
affected you?
We welcome the industry’s heightened focus on
the quality and performance of products. I believe
successful construction product manufacturers
will be those that take technical leadership
seriously. Products simply must perform as
designed – and this begins with very tight
manufacturing control.
The data generated within our new manufacturing
cell gives us amazing levels of insight and
intelligence about what’s happening on the line.
This translates to absolute control and
predictability of the quality of our fasteners,
rather than having to rely on batch-testing postmanufacture.
This technical leadership also extends to
providing the right technical guidance and
support to customers – in terms of specification,
testing and installation.
You mention an R&D department at the
new facility – there are already some
pretty innovative fixing solutions on the
market today, so is there still room for
innovation in terms of fixings and
fasteners, and if so, what type of issues
will this innovation address?
Absolutely; pushing the boundaries of what’s
possible is essential – whether that’s in terms of
refining processes, improving existing products,
or innovating new ones.
A significant proportion of our R&D is in partnership
with the larger system OEMs. As they develop new
systems for the envelope, perhaps using new
materials, there’s often a need to develop a
bespoke fastener to fully complement that system.
Our new facility means we can produce working
prototypes within a matter of days.
Can you describe some of the more
interesting projects your range of
fasteners and fixings have been used on?
“We welcome the
industry’s heightened
focus on the quality
and performance of
products”
We work with 80% of UK contractors, so have the
opportunity to be involved in a very diverse range of
projects. This variety definitely keeps the working
day interesting – especially for our technical teams
who help customers choose the right fastener for
the right application, depending on the specific
requirements of each project’s location.
A good example, and quite topical with the
America’s Cup sailing tournament in March, is a
project in Camber Quay in Portsmouth. We
provided fasteners for the construction of the Land
Rover Ben Ainslie team HQ and visitor centre. The
marine location, in Portsmouth’s historic naval
base, meant the building’s envelope had to be
ultra durable. Our façade anchors and DrillFast
fasteners were therefore supplied in A4/316-grade
stainless steel to ensure the strongest levels of
corrosion resistance.
2021 has started with big investment from
Fixfast – are there reasons to be positive
in construction this year, and what can we
expect from Fixfast going forward?
There are always reasons to be positive. We’re
proud to be part of the UK’s construction industry.
The last year has shown it to be resilient, but also
shown how important it is to the UK economy. I
expect momentum in the industry to build again
as we emerge from the pandemic.
Fixfast is guided by three commitments; service
excellence, technical leadership, and raising
standards in our industry. Expect to hear from us
throughout 2021 with some major
announcements that relate to these three areas.
Contact Fixfast
www.fixfast.com
@fixfast_uk
MARCH 2021 TC 35

Q&A: Hannah Wall, CUPA PIZARRAS
SKILLS FOR THE FUTURE & THE
CHALLENGES FACING THE SECTOR
With the industry experiencing a shortage of skilled workers, it is more important than
ever to find ways to ensure the next generation of roofers are adequately prepared. For
the first of our three-part series with CUPA PIZARRAS, we catch up with Hannah Wall,
UK Marketing Manager, to discuss the impact of COVID-19 on the company’s college
sponsorship and the wider industry.
TC: Hi Hannah, first of all, could you tell
us about the CUPA PIZARRAS college
sponsorship programme and what it
entails?
HW: We currently have six colleges within our
scheme that we have pledged to support: South
Devon College, Leeds College of Building,
Newcastle College, Edinburgh College, Dundee
and Angus College and finally Bolton College,
which was added this academic year. Together,
they are some of the UK’s top construction and/or
roofing colleges and were initially recommended
to us by the National Federation of Roofing
Contractors (NFRC) for the outstanding
achievements of their students.
A key part of our sponsorship includes the
presentation of our RIBA-approved CPD on
Specifying Natural Roofing Slate to the colleges.
This CPD covers everything a construction
professional needs to know about natural slate,
from the production process to installation and
the necessary standards and testing to look out
for. We also provide pallets of free slate to the
colleges for use during training as well as a
goodie bag for every student.
In addition, at the end of the academic year, we
give four students from each college the chance
to win a trip to Northern Spain to visit CUPA
PIZARRAS’ headquarters, quarries and processing
plants, along with their lecturers. This is an
opportunity for those who have excelled during
their training to see the entire process from
CUPA PIZARRAS provides support for a number of colleges including clockwise from top left: South Devon College; Edinburgh
College; Newcastle College and Leeds College of Building. Support includes CPDs, pallets of product and clothing and goodies.
“Slate is almost a
roofing discipline in
itself, requiring a
different skill set than
other artificial
products”
beginning to end and to understand what it takes
to produce high quality slate – an incredible
opportunity for them. Despite the pandemic, we
are determined to support the colleges and their
students the best we can, which is why we have
continued to provide technical guides and online
resources. The sponsorship not only provides
encouragement to the young roofing apprentices,
but also broadens their opportunity to learn indepth
about slate.
Why is the college sponsorship
programme important and what
opportunities does it offer students
The college sponsorship ensures that the
students have a supply of quality products to
work and practice with for real-world
applications. As a manufacturer in the roofing
industry, we understand the importance of
Continued on page 38
36 TC MARCH 2021

Roofing underlays
Ventilation solutions
Expert technical support
Choiceiseverything
With one of the most comprehensive
ranges of roof underlays and ventilation
solutions available in the UK and Ireland,
Glidevale Protect offers tried and trusted
performance for any project. When you’re
creating better buildings and healthy
homes, choice really is everything.
Glidevale Protect is a specialist UK producer, offering
ventilation solutions, condensation control and energy
efficiency across the built environment.
For technical guidance or to book an online
presentation, contact us on +44 (0)161 905 5700,
email info@glidevaleprotect.com or visit
www.choiceiseverything.co.uk

Q&A: Hannah Wall, CUPA PIZARRAS
Continued from page 36
excellent craftsmanship and are delighted to have
the opportunity to encourage the younger
generation to develop an interest in the craft. Slate
is almost a roofing discipline in itself, requiring a
different skill set than other artificial products.
Through our CPDs, the students are also able to
benefit from technical knowledge, such as the
importance of selecting a high-quality slate from
a reputable supplier and the value of standards
and traceability in the specification of slate. In
addition, the opportunity to win the trip with us to
Spain provides added motivation for them to
succeed in their studies.
How has COVID-19 impacted on the
college sponsorship programme over the
past year and how have the colleges
adapted?
The past year has been difficult for many of the
colleges as social distancing measures have
reduced the hands-on element of the college
training that is so key to their progression.
However, the students can still continue to learn
through online seminars and through their onsite
training with their employer.
It is unfortunate that they have had reduced time
at college, so we wanted to make more resources
available to them. We have provided a number of
YouTube videos covering our full production
process as well as technical guides so that they
can still learn as much as they can even if they
are not physically at their college.
How has CUPA PIZARRAS adapted to
ensure the sponsorship can still go
ahead, and the students can continue to
benefit?
Despite these challenging times, we tried to
continue the original scheme as best we could.
Although the apprentices from the September
2019 to August 2020 academic year were unable
to have a trip to Spain, we ensured that all the
colleges received their free of charge slate pallets
and gift bags. Prior to COVID-19, we were also
able to hold a number of face-to-face CPDs, and
“We understand the importance of excellent
craftsmanship and are delighted to have the
opportunity to encourage the younger
generation to develop an interest in the craft”
later on in the year we delivered personalised
achievement awards to each of the colleges to be
presented when the students were able to meet
in person.
For the current academic year, we have already
prepared their gift bags and the slate is being
sent over as soon as the colleges reopen. In
addition, we have given all of the colleges as
many resources as possible to help with online
learning, including the delivery of online CPD by
our Specification Managers and also our ondemand
CPD is now available to watch online at
their leisure. We’ve been really pleased with the
take up of this – it’s been brilliant.
“The combination of
COVID-19 and Brexit
has clearly had an
impact, with the
industry now seeing
long delivery delays
especially with roof
tiles, insulation and
battens”
When we look at the roofing industry as a
whole, how do you feel it has been
impacted by COVID-19?
We are very fortunate that despite the
circumstances the roofing industry, like the wider
construction sector, continues to operate.
However, the combination of COVID-19 and Brexit
has clearly had an impact, with the industry now
seeing long delivery delays especially with roof
tiles, insulation and battens. In addition, many
manufacturing facilities have been unable to
return to their pre-pandemic output, which has
caused on-going project scheduling issues.
Each year, CUPA PIZARRAS takes four pupils from each college
to their quarry in Northern Spain to learn more about slate.
Despite all this, the construction sector is
resilient, and we will bounce back.
Has CUPA PIZARRAS seen any changes
with its operations and customers as a
result? If so, how has the company
adapted?
In line with government regulations, our
operations in Spain have changed to ensure the
safety of all employees during the production
process. While we do have available stock of the
core UK sizes, certain ranges of popular
selections and sizes have faced increased
demand during this unprecedented time. With the
number of renovation and new build projects
going ahead, overall CUPA PIZARRAS are
producing slates at a higher rate than ever.
In the UK, all of our area and specification
managers have continued meeting with
customers and delivering our CPDs online. Our
team of area managers are also working closely
with both production in Spain and their merchant
customers to coordinate orders based on readily
available sizes, keeping the line of
communication clear and constant so that we
can serve all our customers as best we can.
Contact CUPA PIZARRAS
www.cupapizarras.com/uk/
@CUPAPIZARRAS_en
38 TC MARCH 2021

STAY SAFE
with GRP rooflights from Filon
Safety is at the front and centre of our product policy:
Our technical expertise has contributed directly to UK rooflight non-fragility classification
over decades, with Filon personnel playing key safety roles in influential trade associations
including NARM (National Association of Rooflight Manufacturers) and ACR (Advisory
Committee for Roofsafety).
Our unique, patented Fixsafe system is the only solution that allows profiled rooflights to be
safely installed from within the building envelope, without the need to access fragile roof areas.
We offer a range of fire grades to provide compliance with Building Regulations.
Our Supasafe triple reinforced rooflights provide high impact resistance, spanning and
load-bearing capabilities.
We’re the UK’s longest established manufacturer of profiled rooflights by continuous process,
with a successful track record of excellence in design, product performance and customer
support. As you’d expect, we’re also currently employing Covid-secure working practices
throughout our operations.
Filon: truly a ‘safe pair of hands’ for specifiers.
Telephone 01543 687300 Email: sales@filon.co.uk
www.filon.co.uk

ROOF LANTERN
INSTALLER POINTS
The Korniche Lantern comes delivered with comprehensive step by step fitting instructions to
make installation as simple as possible. You could be for forgiven for thinking that when on-site it’s
not always that straight forward…So here are 20 points Made for Trade have put together to show
how you could really be - fitting in minutes - glazing in seconds.... and having a brew before you
know it!
1
2
3
Made for Trade have ensured that your
Korniche Lantern arrives well packaged
to minimise the chance of damage. The
downside is on occasion it might take
longer to unpack the components than
to install the lantern, but an undamaged
product can only be a good thing!
Always use a safety blade to unpack
the parts to avoid scratching the profile
surfaces.
Korniche Lanterns are delivered with full
colour instructions and a layout plan. When
all the parts are unwrapped, carefully check
before you start the installation to ensure
all the components are present.
4
5
6
Ensure the prepared roof upstand is flat,
dry and free of any debris. MFT advise a
minimum of 150mm high and 69mm in
width, providing t right base for the eaves
beam of the lantern to be fixed down to.
Made for Trade use quality hex bolts and
so they provide the hex key for bolt fixing
in the parts box. The tools you need to
complete the job are a silicone gun, knife,
soft mallet, screwdriver, Cordless Drill and
some snips.
Getting started.. Lay out the eaves beams
and locate using the plated steel corner
brackets
7
8
9
Temporarily secure the eaves beams
corners with the tie wraps provided (to be
cut off later on), this allows the eaves to
be safely turned over and sealant applied
to the underside prior to placing on the
upstand.
Carefully turn the connected eaves beams
upside down ready to apply sealant to the
underside of the assembly.
Apply the sealant liberally to the areas
indicated in the instruction manually only.
Now, and this is important.. PUT THE
SILICONE GUN DOWN, really… It’s the last
time you’ll need it.
N
p
t
t
p
t
40 TC MARCH 2021 ESSENTIAL READING FOR ROOFING, CLADDING & INSULATION CONTRACTORS
Total Contractor_Small Projects DPS_Korniche Install.indd 2-3

10
Once complete, turn the eaves beams back
over and place them carefully on to the
upstand ensuring it sits square, level and
centralised. Don’t screw it down yet!
11
Now to build up the frame. A quick check
to ensure the chimney nuts are positioned
correctly over the holes in the hips is
worthwhile before locating the beams
over the boss. Be sure to check the correct
fasteners are used, and always torque bolts
as indicated in the installation guide.
12
Carefully place the completed lantern
frame into the eaves beam, gently push
it down and visually check that the holes
in the frame and end bosses are aligned
before moving on.
13
Install the 20mm bolts through the red
isolating caps which, when tightened, will
fully align the frame. Fasteners should be
torqued as indicated in the installation
guide. Once these are fitted you can
remove the cable ties.
14
Double check the frame is still set square
on the upstand. Now the assembly is fully
aligned you can fix it down to the upstand
using the pre-drilled holes in the lantern
frame and the supplied screws.
15
Firmly press the glazing retainer on to the
glass edge ensuring the self-clean coating
is the correct way round. It’s important to
check that the retainer is central across the
glass unit, with equal glass overhang at
each side.
16
Position the top of the glass unit against
the ridge T-bar, ensuring the panel is
central, let the unit rotate down onto the
seals until the retainer clips into the eaves
beam. Check to ensure the clip features are
engaged and the glass cannot slide down
the roof.
17
Once all glass panels are in place, locate
the inner and caps between the retainers
and secure with the plastic fir tree clips.
Use a soft mallet to make sure they are fully
in place.
18
Time for the top caps, you’re nearly there
now. Start with the ridge and then work
down through the hips and finally the
rafters. Ensure the top caps are aligned
correctly into the clip before firmly pushing
into place.
19
Next it’s the outer end caps, slide the
plastic fir tree clips into the slots and push
the cappings into position, use a soft mallet
to get a nice tight fit. The final piece of the
puzzle are the Boss top caps, simply line up
the pins and push into place. Done.
20
One last point, hopefully you
put the silicone gun back in the
van after point 9! DO NOT ADD
silicone to any drainage holes,
the glass or the gap between the
eaves and upstand!
It really is
that easy to
get the Perfect Finish
with the Korniche Lantern…..
now best get that kettle on…
ESSENTIAL READING FOR ROOFING, CLADDING & INSULATION CONTRACTORS
MARCH 2021 T C 41
12/02/2021 11:53

Q&A: Sunny Lotay, Permaroof UK
A NEW JOURNEY INTO THE
COMMERCIAL SECTOR
Sunny Lotay is the National Commercial Manager at Permaroof, which made the move
into the commercial sector this year. With a varied and successful career, which started
by spending the school holidays volunteering for his dad’s construction business, we
caught up with Sunny to hear his thoughts on, amongst other things, what the future of
the roofing industry looks like after one of the most challenging years in recent times…
TC: Tell us a little bit about your path into
construction...
SL: I’ve always been fascinated by how the
construction industry works – ever since I spent
my school holidays on site with my father
watching how things were done. However, I didn’t
immediately go into the sector and spent some
years working in estate agency, account
management and even had my own decorating
business for a time.
It was after this that I decided to enter the roofing
industry, starting with SIG Roofing where I spent
almost seven years as a Business Development
Manager, followed by one year as a Specification
Manager at SIG Design and Technology. I then
took on the role of Head of Flat Roofing with
Saint-Gobain/Jewson for five years, where I was
introduced to Permaroof. But it wasn’t until after
almost two years into my next position as a
Regional Specification Manager at Flex-R that
discussions with Permaroof and the creation of
its commercial division progressed rapidly, which
brings us up to December 2020 when I started
my current role.
What are you most excited about doing
within your new role?
Permaroof has been dominating the domestic
EPDM rubber flat roofing market for the past two
Sunny Lotay, Permaroof UK.
decades, so to work closely within a successful
business and build on that solid foundation as we
begin a new journey into the commercial sector is
incredibly exciting.
“Flat roofing has evolved dramatically – from ‘hot
works’ to cold-applied systems with a vast range
of options available to the specifier, building
owners and installers”
I’m also looking forward to having the opportunity to
partner with world-renowned EPDM manufacturers,
like Firestone, to really offer value-added solutions
and to build long-term partnerships.
Why was now the right time for Permaroof
to make a move into the commercial
sector?
During my 14+ years in the industry, flat roofing
has evolved dramatically – from ‘hot works’ to
cold-applied systems with a vast range of options
available to the specifier, building owners and
installers. This, combined with Permaroof’s 20
years of successful merchant distribution and
backing of an industry giant like Firestone
Building Products, made for a perfect fit and,
equally, perfect timing.
This means that we’re able to capitalise on the

synergy and culture of what we already have and
offer further support and solutions, coupled with
Firestone’s proven business model on a projectled
basis, to find the correct roofing system for
each client’s brief.
What are some of the key challenges
facing your customers at the moment?
Arguably the biggest, and most obvious, challenge
to everyone is the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to the
current lockdown, projects are being pushed back
and clients are focusing on repairs as a result of a
lack of advice and support. However, there are a
number of other challenges – for example
compliance with British standards, the impact of
Brexit, identifying what the correct flat roof
solution is and overemphasis on cost as opposed
to understanding broader, long-term solutions –
that customers are navigating as well.
What steps have you taken to ensure
supply of products and meet the demands
of your customers?
“There is an
overemphasis on cost
as opposed to
understanding broader,
long-term solutions
Permaroof has been very proactive to make sure
that products are available both in-house and via
the supply chain.
Working more proactively and maintaining
ongoing interaction with our supply chains has
kept our offering up-to-date and ensured the
wheels keep turning, which is apparent when you
look at the record-breaking year Permaroof
experienced in 2020. I’m sure the introduction of
our new commercial division will continue to
contribute to this ongoing growth throughout
2021 and in the years ahead.
How do you foresee 2021 panning out, not
just for Permaroof but for the whole sector?
Permaroof’s head office in Alfreton, Derbyshire.
Like last year, we still face ongoing uncertainty
due to the pandemic. But I strongly believe the
industry itself should see increased activity and
confidence as we, hopefully, return to normality in
the second half of the year.
Roofs will always continue to need attention and
eventually we’ll see a growth spurt as 2022
approaches, creating more specification
opportunities to provide support and assistance
to our customers.
Contact Permaroof UK
www.permaroof.co.uk
@PermaroofUK
MARCH 2021 TC 43

Roof Window Installation
MIND THE GAP: A FOCUS ON
THERMAL EFFICIENCY
Debbie Phillips, National Business Development Manager at Keylite Roof Windows, looks
at the best approach to ensure your builds are not only compliant but deliver optimum
levels of wellbeing for the occupants.
For many roofing contractors, compliance is
the dreaded c-word. It can be all too easy
to focus on cost and time spent on-site, but
if you ensure that your builds are compliant at the
point of installation, this can dramatically reduce
the need for call-backs in the long run.
With compliance related to thermal performance
we’re looking primarily at Conservation of Fuel
and Power Part L, section 6. Part L is split into
two parts, part L1A for new build dwellings and
part L1B for existing dwellings, but we’re going to
focus on L1A.
The purpose of approved document L is to ensure
energy efficiency in buildings. The Target CO ²
Emission Rate (TER) and Target Fabric Energy
Efficiency (TFEE) rate are the minimum energy
requirements for a new-build dwelling. To
showcase that a building complies with regulation
requirements, Dwelling CO ²
emission Rate (DER)
and Dwelling Fabric Energy Efficiency (DFEE)
rates are calculated, and both must meet or
exceed the TER and TFEE.
Thermal bridging and condensation
When it comes to thermal comfort and
performance, one of the biggest issues for
contractors is thermal bridging and condensation,
and all too often double glazing is seen as the
main culprit of this. However, despite meeting
relevant standards it’s often in the installation of
a product where cold bridging can occur, leading
to unpleasant mould left on windows and
reducing its thermal efficiency.
Installation of roof windows is often left to the
manufacturer’s discretion, with most stipulating
that a 20mm gap is required around roof windows
to enable for on-site adjustments
and ease of installation. This gap
is supposed to be ‘filled in’ after
installation to reduce the impact
of thermal bridging. However,
this is rarely stipulated in building
designs and the retrofittable product
of a thermal foam is often not on
specifications, likely because at this
level of detail there is not the
awareness or the incentive to
purchase extra materials.
If this area is not insulated, then
this can lead to cold bridging and
condensation on roof windows. The
gap between the roof and the window
creates a cold section all around the
frame due to the temperature
differentiation between the
outside and the inside, which
can eventually lead to mould and
contributes toward heat loss.
In the design
In order to make houses more comfortable and
energy efficient, the onus should be taken away
from the installers and products should be
designed and specified with optimum thermal
comfort in mind. Manufacturers should design in
features that eliminate thermal bridging, which
reduces the risk of non-compliance and delivers
a build that is closer to the expected energy
performance.
The difference between the on-paper
specification and the as built performance often
occurs because of attention to detail and the lack
of awareness that a product will only perform as
specified if it’s also correctly
installed. Keylite is aware of this issue
surrounding the installation of roof
windows and has taken the lead in
ensuring it removes the
possibility of this happening;
meaning its products are
designed in such a way that
contractors don’t have to consider
the ‘gap’ when specifying or fitting roof
windows.
With this principle in mind, Keylite
Roof Windows introduced an
expanding thermal collar for its
products, the only system of its
kind and the only company in the
UK to address this issue. The
thermal collar is already attached to
the roof window, so when on site installers
can fit with a 20mm gap for ease of installation
and then simply pull the tab on the window, once
fitted, to release the expandable thermal collar,
which then bridges the gap between the frame
and building envelope. This not only saves time
and cost for the installer, but also creates more
thermally efficient and comfortable homes for
occupants.
Contact Keylite Roof Windows
www.keyliteroofwindows.com
01283 200 158
@Keylite
Left: Debbie Phillips, National Business
Development Manager at Keylite Roof
Windows. Middle: Keylite thermal collar
diagram. Bottom: Roof window
installation.
44 TC MARCH 2021

2020 CANCELLED
THE UK ROOFING AWARDS 2020/21
Owing to continued uncertainty regarding the pandemic, we have taken the difficult decision to cancel the 2020
live awards event scheduled for May this year. Instead the winners of these awards will be announced online and
celebrated in a special video to be produced over the summer.
We have secured a date for the 2021 awards, and will be opening nominations shortly for projects completed
between 1 January 2020 and 31 December 2020. Keep an eye on roofingawards.co.uk for details.
Friday 5 November 2021 | InterContinental London—The O2
For more details or to book your table,
contact 020 7638 7663 or head to roofingawards.co.uk
All tickets already purchased remain valid for November 2021. Thanks to the continued support of our 2020 awards sponsors:
Drinks Reception
and Category Sponsor
Headline Sponsor
Awards Knowledge Partner

New Roofing products Updates
SPRA’S E-LEARNING
SPRA says its E-Learning and Assessment
Module is the perfect tool for getting up to
speed on Single Ply Roof Technology.
The Small Roofs Training Module will test your
knowledge and understanding of basic single ply
roofing.
You will be asked to register your details to start
on the 9 sections of this free assessment. When
you feel confident, take the Assessment Test at
the end of each section, and Assessment Tests
do not have to be taken in order – you can work
in an order and at a pace that works for you.
For further info on all these updates and more, visit www.total-contractor.co.uk
SPRA says many people working
within the single ply industry
would benefit from a deeper
understanding of the sector;
whether they work in sales,
marketing, administration or
more technical roles such as site
inspections, specifying and
manufacturing.
This is where the SPRA Design Guide and SPRA
online Training and Assessment Module can be
invaluable. SPRA says both are freely available
FLEX-R DELIVERS IN DIFFICULT YEAR
Flex-R is celebrating after winning Carlisle SynTec’s Outstanding Performance Award for EPDM Sales.
The company says it has worked with Carlisle SynTec, the pioneers of rubber roofing, for over 20 years
to exclusively distribute their USA-manufactured EPDM to the UK roofing industry.
This is the first time the awards have included companies outside the USA, and Flex-R has been recognised
after achieving the largest growth in sales of Carlisle’s EPDM membranes.
and will improve knowledge, understanding and
competency.
www.spra.co.uk
Duncan Winter, Divisional Managing Director said: “In a difficult year Flex-R achieved the 20-year milestone of supplying cold-applied roofing systems.
Due to COVID this wasn’t celebrated, so receiving this award completes 2020 for us.
“Winning this award recognises the commitment and hard work of Flex-R’s Technical Director Ben Midwinter and Sales Director Danny Cole in leading
their teams to continuously deliver high quality EPDM projects. The company started by launching Carlisle’s EPDM, a relatively unknown system in the
UK at that time, and this award is testament to our work in gaining acceptance within the industry.” www.flex-r.co.uk
UPMARKET OPTICS THANKS TO CUPA
CUPA PIZARRAS’ range of high-quality roof slates has been used extensively during an exciting barn
conversion in Skitham Lane, Preston.
Selected for durability and aesthetics in keeping with the existing traditional materials, the slate has helped ensure a
high standard of finish. Set within a small, private complex, the former barn represented a significant undertaking
for the project team of JR Singleton Ltd and ALC Roofing. For one, the building had begun to show its age, with certain structural elements beginning to
deteriorate in terms of quality. On account of these concerns, the planning provisions for the conversion process required significant work, including the full
removal of the structure’s roof. As such, the team from JR Singleton worked to strip the roof entirely, before handing the renovation back over to ALC Roofing.
Upon assuming control at Skitham Lane, ALC Roofing worked to install a modern, secure roofing system using CUPA PIZARRAS CUPA 12 slate as the roofing
material. The non-carbonated slate has a smooth matt surface and an average thickness of between 3.5 - 6 mm. On a visual level, the slates, procured from
CUPA PIZARRAS’ own quarries in northern Spain, helped to deliver upmarket optics across the build while also matching the barn’s existing slate exterior.
Together, the roof and external walls tied together to create a high-quality, characterful overarching aesthetic. www.cupapizarras.com/uk/
46 TC MARCH 2021

47º PITCHED GREEN ROOF PROJECT!
The teams at Optigrun and Bridgman
& Bridgman have worked together
to deliver a green roof with an
extremely steep 47º pitch.
The private residence, located at
Salthouse near Cromer, North
Norfolk, was originally designed by
the owner with a roof slope of 52.5°.
The project presented a number of challenges
including most notably the steep pitched sedum
roof requirement and the need to prevent
slippage of the substrate and vegetation mat;
dealing with drainage run off at the base of the
slope; and the North Norfolk sea front location
and weather conditions presenting concerns
around issues such as wind uplift.
Optigrun provided detailed technical assistance
to find a green roof solution that would work on
such a steep pitch, with the design
being adjusted to a pitch of 47°.
The solution incorporated a
structured storage fleece
SSV800 between waterproofing
layer and substrate to store
water and provide drainage, and
Type N anti-slip system comprising base
netting and sills.
The SSV800 layer was laid across the entire roof
followed by the Type N netting. Because the length
of slope was the same on both sides of the roof,
the net was laid from eaves to eaves without
needing to be fixed. The anti-slip sills were then
clipped to the netting in a staggered pattern.
The anti-slip system was then covered with
extensive substrate and a pre-cultivated sedum
vegetation mat. An Optigrun TSK channel system
was laid at the base of both roof slopes to accept
and direct excess water to the roof outlets. At the
outlets, the channel was connected to an
Optigrun inspection chamber.
The 47º pitch is said to be pretty much as steep
as a green roof can go before it becomes a green
wall, and despite its coastal location, the roof is
said to have already stood up to a record 67mph
storm from the North Sea.
www.optigruen.co.uk /
www.bridgmanlandscapes.co.uk
GREENSCAPE
In collaboration with the
Green Roofing Association.
MAGAZINE
If you supply green roofing products to
the green roof market, Greenscape is the
magazine for you!
GREENSCAPE
Ensuring Best Practice for Green Roof & Solar PV Projects
MAGAZINE
Get your marketing message in front of over
5,000 professionals who specify/purchase
green roofing products
For advertising opportunities contact
Andy Dunn 07963 33077
Jake Roxborough 07956 133314
In collaboration with the Green Roofing Association.
From the publishers of
MARCH 2021 TC 47

Project Focus
A REAL PAGE-TURNER OF A PROJECT
Total Contractor hears how bespoke cladding panels from Proteus Facades helped bring a
former bookshop back to life...
The former Ottakar’s
bookstore, in High
Wycombe, has been
given a new lease of life
and brought back to its
former glory as a pillar of
the town centre, through a
state-of-the-art
regeneration project featuring
bespoke cladding panels from
Proteus Facades.
The Proteus SC cladding panels are arranged in a
striking half-hexagon design that appears to float
outward from the main structure. The 6 metre
high façade, where the panels themselves are
embellished by intricately designed, leaf-shaped
perforations, has the ability to stop people in their
tracks while they gaze at the intriguing,
shimmering aesthetic.
Prior to the refurbishment, the original building,
which once stood proud on the corner of Queens
Square fell into disrepair after being left
unattended by its previous owner for quite some
time.
In 2019 however, as part of an ongoing initiative
to acquire, regenerate and re-let vacant shops to
independent businesses, Wycombe
District Council purchased the
building and invested in a
refurbishment project. This
included a complete redesign
of the interior and an external
upgrade to improve aesthetics
and add more versatility to the
town centre.
Another dimension
During the initial stages of the redevelopment,
main contractors, Abbeymead Building found that
the glazing to the upper levels would need
replacing, along with limited structural support
positions where the perforated cladding could
connect. This resulted in a complete redesign of
this section, with full replacement of the windows
and the spanning solution of the Proteus SC,
lightweight perforated anodised aluminium
panels, manufactured by Proteus Facades.
Proteus SC is an engineered panel system that is
offered in either solid, perforated or mesh panel
formats. By utilising an extensive range of
metals, colours, textures and forms it can add
another dimension to any façade cladding project.
The system can be manufactured between 1mm
and 5mm in thickness and an acoustic insulation
layer encapsulated within the panel.
Installed by J & PW Developments, the Proteus SC
panels at White Hart Street, were fabricated from a
3mm J57Up aluminium alloy with a brush polished,
mirror effect finish, anodised to Anolok 543.
The bespoke laser-cut leaf pattern on the panels,
visible both inside and out, also provides further
visual appeal to the façade, offering a delicately
designed brise soleil within and a striking external
aesthetic for passers-by.
Each Proteus SC panel is secured in place using a
bespoke aluminium support system, also
manufactured by Proteus Facades, with a
matching anodised coating. The brackets are
fixed back to the original structure with a 200mm
x 50mm aluminium extrusion at panel joints,
spanning approximately 3700mm between the
floor and slabs, and with 1100mm cantilevered
upper and lower sections.
Further external works carried out during the
redevelopment, completed in December 2020,
include replacement of the flat roof and
installation of a new shopfront set back from the
pavement to create a covered seating area.
Internally, the building has been completely
restructured to offer a ground floor space ideal for
use as a restaurant and shops, along with first
floor studio-style offices. All of which have great
potential to attract some of High Wycombe’s up
and coming businesses, which in turn is expected
to boost footfall and improve the overall
experience for visitors to the town.
Contact Proteus Facades
www.proteusfacades.com
0151 545 5075
48 TC MARCH 2021

WHAT
DOES
YOUR
HOME
SAY
ABOUT
YOU?
SAY IT WITH
CARE
www.cedral.world
SAY IT WITH
SUSTAINABILITY

Raising Standards
VISION FOR RAISING STANDARDS IS
KEY TO EJOT’S NFRC SPONSORSHIP
Total Contractor hears why “a shared ethos in seeking to help contractors continuously
improve quality standards across the industry” is a crucial factor in EJOT’s continued
support of two NFRC initiatives...
Construction fastening systems
manufacturer EJOT UK is supporting the
NFRC (National Federation of Roofing
Contractors) in two of the most important areas
of its work in 2021 to help in the continued
promotion of quality and best practice across the
roofing and cladding industry.
Blue Book
EJOT UK has continued its sponsorship of the
publication of the renowned ‘Blue Book’, now into
its fifth edition, which is the federation’s popular
guide to design and best practice for profiled
sheet roofing and cladding. Comprehensive in its
detail and regarded as a highly trusted resource,
the Blue Book continues to be the standard
reference point for the roofing and cladding
industry.
This newly updated edition reflects the mission of
NFRC to provide members with the information
and guidance they need to raise confidence
whilst promoting roofing and cladding as a skilled
sector in the wider construction industry.
Those roofing and cladding contractors whose
work demonstrates the highest quality standards
are recognised in the NFRC’s UK Roofing Awards,
which EJOT UK is also supporting this year.
UK Roofing Awards
The company is sponsoring two categories – the
Sheeting & Cladding category and the award for
Rainscreen – in the industry-wide event which
showcases the most outstanding standards of
workmanship and safety within the industry.
Bob Richardson, NFRC Head of Technical and
Training said: “We are grateful to EJOT for their
continued support for both the Blue Book and UK
Roofing Awards. The Blue Book, now in its fifth
edition, will soon also include additional
information on the different regulations for all the
devolved nations – and we will be publishing this
new edition later this year”
He added: “Whilst we were disappointed not to be
able to go ahead with the 2020 UK Roofing
Awards live event, due to Covid-19 restrictions,
we will be still be announcing the winners very
shortly. The calibre of the entries was
outstanding, so it was only right we recognised
this, and it is thanks to our sponsors such as
EJOT that we were still able to go ahead with the
judging despite no longer having a live event. Now
we have had confirmation that live events will be
able to go ahead from June, we look forward to
celebrating both the 2020 and 2021 awards
winners with EJOT in person at the 2021 awards
in the autumn.”
“It’s really important to
keep our knowledge up
to date in order to
deliver the best quality
installation every time”
Robert Hardstaff, Managing Director at EJOT UK,
said: “We’re delighted to be supporting the
objectives of the NFRC throughout 2021 as we
have a shared ethos in seeking to help
contractors continuously improve quality
standards across the industry. We’re lucky to
work in a hugely innovative sector with new
products coming to the market constantly, so it’s
really important to keep our knowledge up to date
in order to deliver the best quality installation
every time – that’s what has made the Blue Book
so indispensable.
“But it’s also important to recognise and
celebrate those who are excelling in the work they
do and to support the UK Roofing Awards in the
current climate is an important statement to
make. We look forward to seeing this year’s
entries and wish the best of luck to everyone who
enters.”
This year’s awards evening is scheduled to take
place on 5th November 2021 at the
InterContinental London – The O2, and will
consider nominations for projects completed
between 1 January 2020 and 31 December 2020.
The judging panel will decide the winners taking
into consideration a range of criteria including the
degree of difficulty, aesthetics, problem-solving,
Health and Safety, workmanship and
environmental qualities.
EJOT UK has grown to become the country’s
leading provider of fastening solutions for sectors
that depend on quality fixings, including
construction, automotive engineering and
consumer electronics. It manufactures fastening
systems here in the UK and across its global
factory network for all key roofing and cladding
applications, including rainscreen and façade
installation, single ply membrane and flat roofing
systems, EWI/ETICS, and solar energy roof
systems.
Contact EJOT UK
www.ejot.co.uk
01977 687040
50 TC MARCH 2021

ON THE WATERFRONT
Urban Seam Façade, Tata Steel’s new A1 firerated
wall cladding system, has been used On one of the apartment blocks it has been used as
utilised in various places across the development.
alongside its standing seam roofing and Anthracite coloured exterior wall cladding, while
cladding system, Colorcoat Urban, for The another includes Urban Seam Façade in Seren
Waterfront development at Shoreham-by-Sea. Copper on the balconies that overlook the river.
Colorcoat Urban cladding in Merlin has also been
The systems have helped to provide a distinctive
used on the houses to clad the oriel windows.
and durable finish to different properties within the
Across the development the cladding systems were
development, whilst maintaining a sense of
installed with the standing seam running both
continuity in the overall design.
vertically and horizontally depending on the look
The Waterfront comprises three apartment blocks that was required – demonstrating the versatility of
alongside groups of terraced houses. Tata Steel’s Tata Steel’s systems. Tata Steel’s Colorcoat Urban
Urban Seam Façade in several colours has been standing seam roofing system in Anthracite was
selected for use on all seven house types within the
scheme. This included several different roof shapes
and styles such as the terraced gabled roofs that
create an ‘M’ shaped roofline. It also enabled the
creation of an unusual flat-topped gambrel shaped
roof with dormer windows that features on a block
in the centre of the development.
www.tatasteelconstruction.com
NO COMPROMISES WITH KALZIP
In conjunction with Knauf Insulation, SFS Intec and Siderise, Kalzip has had its FC rainscreen façade system
tested in accordance with BS 8414-1 and has successfully met the requirements of BR 135.
Kalzip’s FC rainscreen is a non-penetrative façade system that incorporates a fast-to-install lightweight flat
Kalzip’s FC Rainscreen facade system.
rainscreen panel and is suitable for both new build and refurbishment projects. Kalzip, Knauf Insulation, SFS Intec
and Siderise partnered to have the FC rainscreen façade system tested to ensure compliance with BR 135 and provide
peace of mind to specifiers and building occupants that the products used will perform as stated. The system is manufactured using pre-painted
aluminium coils, which are classified as either A1 (non-combustible) or A2 (limited combustibility), according to EN 13501-1, depending on the paint
coating applied. Class A1 has been awarded for one, two and three layers of PVDF or similar coatings, and Class A2 applies to four coatings, which are
normally required in marine or aggressive environments, or for extended paint warranties. Adrian Whitefoot, Technical Services Manager, at Kalzip,
commented: “The FC rainscreen façade system provides fire performance compliance, without compromise. The system has been fully tested to
provide a solution that, if specified and installed as certified, does not need additional testing to meet regulatory requirements, saving significant time
and expense – and ultimate peace of mind.” www.kalzip.com
CENTRE STAGE FOR NEW MACHINERY
Panel Systems has invested in a new state-of-the-art CNC machining centre for its factory in Sheffield.
The new equipment, an SCM Morbidelli x400 Nesting Machine Centre, includes a 3.1m x 2.1m matrix vacuum
flatbed, which means the company can now fabricate and router panels up to 3m wide. A 5 axis head, which
provides enhanced cutting capabilities, will also enable Panel Systems to provide more decorative designs
using an extended range of materials.
Panel Systems’ new CNC machining centre.
In addition, the machine’s integrated 37 position tool holder and 16 position drill block, tool length detection device and Digital NC Module provides
faster machining capabilities, which in turn helps to boost production rates and reduce lead times for customers.
A spokesperson at Panel Systems said: “This investment in new equipment means our Sheffield factory is one of the best equipped facilities for panel
fabrication in the UK. With over 40 years’ experience in the industry, we will continue to offer the most comprehensive panel fabrication services possible,
whilst also meeting the needs of new and existing customers looking to specify larger panel formats in a wider range of materials.”
www.panelsystems.co.uk
MARCH 2021 TC 51

Effective Compartmentation
ACHIEVING COMPARTMENTATION
COMPLIANCE IN THE FIFTH FACADE
Ensuring compartmentation throughout a building using compartment walls and floors is
central to upholding passive fire protection strategies, and it is essential that the roof also
contributes to compartmentation. Will Wigfield, Product Manager – Flat Roofs, ROCKWOOL
UK, discusses best practice for achieving effective compartmentation between flat roofs and
the heads of compartment walls, and how Approved Document B (ADB) addresses
junctions with flat roofs.
Where the roof interfaces with the head of a
compartment wall, it is vital that fire
cannot spread via the roof build-up and
bypass the compartmentation to enter new zones –
nor go on to take hold within the roof structure itself.
ADB Volume 2 considers this in Section 8.26,
stating: “To reduce the risk of fire spreading over
the roof from one compartment to another, a
1500mm wide zone of the roof, either side of the
wall, should have a covering classified as
B ROOF (t4), on a substrate or deck of a material
rated class A2-s3, d2 or better, as set out in
Diagram 8.2a.”
Section 8.27 then goes on to provide further
guidance on the type of buildings to which this
requirement applies.
While ROCKWOOL believes that this guidance is
clear, it has been suggested that it could be
interpreted in a way that allows combustible
insulation to be carried across the head of any
compartment wall.
This interpretation arises through the way in
which the terms ‘roof covering’, ‘substrate’ and
‘deck’ are defined within the context of flat roofs
and B ROOF (t4).
Key definitions
To understand Section 8.26 of ADB Volume 2, it is
necessary to define the roof covering, substrate
and deck within the context of both ADB and
B ROOF (t4).
B ROOF (t4) is a performance classification
determined in accordance with BS EN 13501-5,
which uses results from test methods detailed
within DD CEN/TS 1187.
DD CEN/TS 1187 provides the following
definitions:
• Roof covering: “uppermost layer of a roof”
Non-combustible stone wool insulation.
52 TC MARCH 2021

• Substrate: “product used immediately beneath
the roof covering”
• Continuous deck: “element with a continuous
supporting function”
In a warm flat roof construction, the ‘roof
covering’ is the waterproofing element, the
‘substrate’ is the insulation, and the ‘deck’ is the
supporting element (for example, profiled steel
sheeting).
Applying these definitions to Section 8.26, if the
roof covering (waterproofing) is placed onto a
substrate, then that substrate (insulation) should
achieve a Euroclass rating of A2-s3, d2 or better
(see Figure 1 for details).
“It has been suggested that it could be
interpreted in a way that allows combustible
insulation to be carried across the head of any
compartment wall”
Above: Figure 1 (Adapted from ADB Diagram 8.2)
Similarly, if the roof covering (waterproofing) is
laid directly on the deck, as in the case of a cold
flat roof, then the deck should achieve a
Euroclass rating of A2-s3, d2 or better.
An interpretation of Section 8.26 poses that the
insulation should not be considered to be the
substrate, and any roof build-up with a
B ROOF (t4) rating can be used continuously
across a compartment wall, provided it sits on a
deck rated Euroclass A2-s3, d2 or better.
However, ROCKWOOL does not believe this
interpretation to be correct, for three reasons:
1The roof covering is the “uppermost layer
of a roof”. Insulation is a substantially
different layer which performs a different
function to the waterproofing layer. These layers
are distinct and separate elements of a roof
construction and must be considered as such.
2Flat roof build-ups containing combustible
insulation materials (those with Euroclass
reaction-to-fire ratings from B down to F)
can achieve a B ROOF (t4) classification.
Furthermore, as energy efficiency targets have
tightened, the thickness of insulation necessary
for compliance has increased substantially.
If B ROOF (t4) was the sole requirement for
determining the suitability of a roof system to
pass over a compartment wall, this would
therefore allow substantive combustible material
to pass over the head of that wall without further
restriction.
In the event of a fire taking hold in the roof, this
could pose significant risk – and in the context of
compartmentation, could provide a path of travel
by which the insulation contributes to fire spread.
ROCKWOOL believes that this runs counter to
maintaining effective compartmentation, and
furthermore is inconsistent with the more detailed
guidance contained within ADB concerning on
which buildings, if any, this might be acceptable.
3B ROOF (t4) is not a fire resistance test. It is
a classification that only considers the
external fire performance of a roof when
subjected to burning brands, simulated wind and
radiant heat – conditions that are far less
onerous than a fully developed fire. It cannot,
therefore, offer comment on the behaviour of a
roof containing substantive combustible
insulation when exposed to a fire from within a
building.
To help develop industry understanding on flat
roofs and managing fire risk, ROCKWOOL has
prepared a suite of resources which focus
specifically on the ‘fifth façade’, including a
whitepaper and CPD module.
Contact ROCKWOOL UK
www.rockwool.co.uk/managing-fire-risk-in-flat-roofs/
@ROCKWOOLUK
MARCH 2021 TC 53

Inverted Roofs
SPECIFYING INVERTED FLAT ROOF
INSULATION POST-GRENFELL
By Joan Ferrer, Ravago Building Solutions
There has been an increased focus on fire
safety since the tragic fire at Grenfell Tower,
with the current consensus suggesting
combustible cladding materials helped spread the
fire, with a chimney-effect sucking flames up the
building because of air gaps and the lack of
efficient fire breaks.
After the Independent Review of Building
Regulations and Fire Safety led by Dame Judith
Hackitt, the Building (Amendment) Regulations,
SI 2018/1230 barred the use of combustible
materials in external walls and specified
attachments of relevant buildings greater than 18
metres in height, and there are now calls for this
to be extended to structures taller than 11
metres.
However, when contemplating your choice of
insulation for an inverted flat roof it would be
wrong to assume that non-combustible materials
are necessary, and it is troubling to see
unsubstantiated fears about fire safety being
used to promote stonewool or cellular glass
insulation. Tried and trusted solutions already
comply with BROOF(t4), the highest performing
fire classification for a roof system, and while
new Building Regulations may usher in additional
changes to fire safety regulations for cladding,
there is no evidence to justify a shift from safe
established approaches in roofing.
The (t4) of BROOF(t4) indicates the use of test 4
from European Specification ENV 1187, the most
intensive test, and the only one which meets the
UK’s tough fire safety requirements. This test
uses burning brands, wind and supplementary
radiant heat to assess the spread of fire across
the external surface of a roof, fire penetration and
the production of flaming droplets or other debris.
To achieve the UK fire classification as outlined in
BS EN 13501-5:2016 there can be
no penetration of a roof system
within 60 minutes and a
maximum flame spread of
0.38m during the preliminary
test stage.
The exemplary track record of roof
systems with non-combustible
coverings is recognised by European Commission
Decision 2000/553/EC of 6 September 2000,
that implements European Council Directive
89/106/EEC, exempting them from the testing
regime. It explicitly states “The external fire
performance of many roof covering
products/materials is well established and
sufficiently well known to fire regulators in the
Member States that they do not require testing for
this particular performance characteristic.”
It is easy to understand why the fire properties of
insulation used in an inverted roof have been
determined to have no relevance to fire safety as
the non-combustible concrete deck beneath and
gravel ballast or paving slabs above enclose the
material.
However, to assuage concerns about fire safety,
some systems using XPS products from Ravago
Building Solutions have now been tested, easily
achieving BROOF(t4) classification, which
considering decades of safe usage was not a
surprise to anybody.
Green roofs
What about green roofs? They aren’t referenced in
the European Decision, however, Fire
Performance of Green Roofs and Walls, published
by the UK government in August 2013, extends
the exemption from testing to green roofs
provided that the growing layer is at least 80mm
with a maximum of 50% organic
content.
XPS is of course not just a safe
material for use in inverted
roofs, it also boasts
exceptional long-term thermal
performance, and its high
compressive strength means roofs can
be used for everything from terraced gardens to
hosting heavy plant equipment.
ETAG 031 Guideline for European Technical
Approval of Inverted Roof Insulation Kits
recommends the use of XPS, not some of the
non-combustible alternatives which have never
been subjected to rigorous immersion, diffusion
and freeze-thaw tests to assess the impact of
water absorption on performance over an
extended period. Recent revisions to BBA Bulletin
4 Inverted Roofs – Drainage and U value
corrections determines that an accurate U-value
calculation requires the use of a moisture
correction factors – you don’t have these values
for previously unused products.
Ultimately, there is no reason to complicate your
decision. We know that XPS is safe for use in
inverted flat roofs and it offers exceptional
thermal performance – specify it with confidence.
Image shows an inverted roof build-up.
Contact Ravago Building Solutions
www.ravagobuildingsolutions.com
@RInsulationUK
54 TC MARCH 2021

FOR FLAT ROOFING CONTRACTORS
THINNER BY DESIGN
THE WORLD’S THINNEST INVERTED XPS INSULATION
• ULTRA thin
• ULTRA efficient
• ULTRA effective
But not ULTRA expensive.
The market leading XPS inverted roof insulation previously only available from
roofing system manufacturers is now available from Quantum Insulation –
RAVATHERM XPS X ULTRA.
To ensure you have the right solution for every project speak to QI:
www.quantuminsulation.com

Green Homes Grant
CAN WE FIND A WAY FORWARD?
By Simon Storer, Chief Executive of Insulation Manufacturers Association.
Announced with much fanfare last summer
by Chancellor Rishi Sunak, the £2bn Green
Homes Grant scheme gives homeowners a
£5000 voucher to fund up to two-thirds of the
cost of upgrading the thermal performance of
their homes. Initially set to run on a limited
timescale until March 2021, it has now been
extended until March 2022.
The issues
Poor preparation and slow take-up has meant
that little more than 20,000 vouchers have been
issued. Therefore, at its current rate, it will take
10 years to meet the government’s target of
improving the energy efficiency of 600,000
homes. Its shaky launch is down to a number of
reasons with applicants struggling to secure
approval for vouchers, a lack of accredited
installers across the country and the bureaucracy
and complexity of the application process causing
long delays. Sadly, some of the specialist firms
that do carry out the work are withdrawing from
the scheme as they are not getting paid.
Unfortunately, funding available for the first part
of the scheme will not be rolled over into the
second part if it remains unspent, severely
restricting the project from March 2021 onwards.
Energy audit
The scheme should have greater
transparency. Properties need to
have a full energy audit as to the
remedial work that needs to be
carried out. It is imperative to employ
experienced people who know what
they are looking at; who can interpret
it correctly and propose the
appropriate energy improvement
measures in the correct order. Making thermal
improvements now which meet the 2050 target
will be more cost effective in the long run, but this
requires a thorough energy performance analysis
of the property. This audit must outline all
necessary improvements, as well as the order in
which they should be undertaken, prior to any
work beginning.
Installers
There must be more training to put installers in
place and a mechanism to identify and capture
the number and geographical location of
interested customers. Companies need
reassurance if they are going to be involved, and
a longer-term vision from government that makes
it worthwhile to employ and train more installers.
“The scheme
should have
greater
transparency”
longer term targets and objectives of
Net Zero Carbon by 2050 and all
Above: Simon Storer, IMA.
existing homes to be EPC band C by
2035. This latter aim requires 1.2
million homes a year being refurbished and
equates to 3,400 properties a day, every day,
every year between now and 2035 – what chance
of that when much simpler schemes such as the
Green Homes Grant are so obviously flawed?
Summary
The scheme is laudable, but as with so many
previous efforts to decarbonise housing and
improve our woefully underperforming housing
stock, the devil is always in the detail.
Remember, we have the materials, technology
and knowledge to improve our buildings, but
agreeing what needs to be done, how it will be
paid for and then confirming the work has been
carried out to a decent standard whilst giving
value for money, is the real challenge.
Timescale
Why was there such a tight timescale when there
was little chance the government was ever going
to achieve the 600,000 homes target in such a
short period? There was also too much confusion
over the scheme and not enough preparatory
work being carried out to make it work in the long
term. Whilst many homeowners want to get the
work done, they simply cannot find the installers
locally to do the work and there has been plenty
of stories of householders finding the nearest
approved installer was many miles away and not
able to take on the work. Have we not seen this
sort of postcode lottery many times before?
Competency
We also need to make sure that whichever work
is carried out is done to the right standard.
Competency in installation is vital, as a high
performing product such as PIR/PUR must be
installed correctly to achieve the highest thermal
performance available. Once the high-quality
building fabric has been achieved it will need no
further work and other improvements can be
embarked upon on the journey to the 2050 target.
Longer-term strategy
Another crucial consideration is to extend beyond
the March 2022 deadline and to incorporate the
Ultimately a scheme which kickstarts thermal
improvements is a good thing and will benefit
small builders, installers and homeowners alike,
but the long term view really needs to be
considered. Meeting our climate change targets
is a marathon, not a sprint, and the government
should bear that in mind and listen to those in
the industry who have the experience if they
want schemes such as the Green Homes Grant
to work.
Contact Insulation Manufacturers Association
www.insulationmanufacturers.org.uk
@IMA_Org
56 TC MARCH 2021

Tapered Insulation
TAPERED BENEFITS: OPTIMISING
FLAT ROOF PERFORMANCE
Correct specification is everything when it comes to selecting an appropriate insulation
system; one that endures a roof’s lifespan throughout all weathers for the building’s warmth
and the occupants’ wellbeing. James Wilkinson, Design Team Manager at flat roof and
single-layer tapered insulation specialists, Gradient, looks at the issues to consider when
selecting an insulation solution that optimises a flat roof’s performance.
Tapered insulation offers the best of both
worlds when installed as part of a flat
roof’s waterproofing build-up. Its
multifunctional design not only enhances a
building’s overall thermal performance, it
manages a roof’s water run-off to ensure it flows
into the appropriate outlets or gutters. If water is
not properly dispersed from a roof, its weight will
lead to deflections forming and increase the risk
of ponding.
This additional weight will fast-track the
waterproofing system’s wear and tear, thus
increasing the likelihood of a worst case scenario:
water-based structural damage, one of the most
common forms of building failure. Therefore, a
well-appointed tapered insulation scheme can
extend the life of the building itself, hence the
importance of selecting a system, whether singlelayer
or multi-layer, that is specifically designed
to suit a particular application.
Industry guidance
In terms of specifying an insulation system that
meets industry standards by taking into account
issues such as water run-off, pitch size, wind
load calculation, falls and weight ratio, the Single
Ply Roofing Association (SPRA) code of practice
offers excellent guidance. This is freely available
online and ideal for installers and specifiers
requiring insulation as part of a single ply system.
Similarly, BS: 6229: 2018, the standard that
defines best practice in flat roof design and
maintenance, provides a learned reference for
performance requirements across a range of
applications.
Plan to succeed
Fail to prepare, then prepare to fail is a wellknown
saying that could have been tailor made
for the construction industry. Hence a site survey
ought to be a prerequisite when specifying
tapered insulation for flat roofs. In many
instances, the initial take-off
drawing/specification of a project will differ from
what is the ‘reality’ on-site. Therefore, it is
always recommended a site visit is carried out
prior to deciding on an appropriate insulation
solution. This is particularly the case for modular
single-layer systems, as they offer little option for
cutting and altering once delivered to site. A
survey will determine a roof’s dimensions and
take into account potential obstructions or
openings such as rooflight and drainage outlets,
which could affect the layout of a bespokedesigned
insulation scheme.
Single or multi-layer option?
Bonded under factory-controlled conditions,
single-layer tapered insulation systems are the
time and cost-effective alternative to multi-layer
solutions: they are ready to install once delivered
to site. The insulation within the single-layer bond
will have been monitored for its volume and
minimum pull-off performance, leaving installers
with the relatively straightforward task of
adhering it – in one block – to the roof, followed
by the waterproofing. This not only guarantees the
insulation will perform as-designed, it
significantly reduces application times and
material waste. Therefore, whilst a multi-layer
58 TC MARCH 2021

(QUITE INTERESTING)
INSULATION FA
ACTS
By QI (Quantum Insulation Ltd)
Correct loading of inverted roof
insulation
Whilst a correctly installed Water Flow Reduction Layer (WFRL) prevents the
majority of rainwater from getting beneath inverted roof insulation, the
true for all forms of inverted roof insulation be they EPS, XPS, VIP or Cellular
Glass, which should all be ballasted with a minimum load of 80 kg/m 2
Commission Decision 2000/553/EC this is easy to achieve, with 450mm
2 , and 50mm of
20/40mm rounded ballast weighing 80kg/m 2
such as porcelain tiles, aluminium & composite decking and green roofs?
Gradient, for example, provides a turnkey service as part of its bespoke manufacture of flat
roof and tapered roofing insulation systems.
solution might appear, on paper at least, to be a more cost-effective option,
the benefit is negated by the additional hours it takes to bond and install
the insulation layer-by-layer; a process that is eliminated with a prebonded
single-layer system.
Engage with an expert
From a specification point of view, quality is built-in with single-layer
tapered insulation systems. At Gradient, for example, we provide a turnkey
service as part of our bespoke manufacture of flat roof and tapered roofing
insulation systems. From the initial consultation and pre-design process, to
the installation and post-project stages, our technical teams work alongside
clients to ensure the successful implementation of our individually-tailored
tapered insulation schemes which are produced to ISO 9001; one of the
most widely adopted management standards in the world.
In summary, when selecting a tapered insulation scheme, it is perhaps
worth reiterating the ultimate purpose of its multifunctional performance: to
keep a flat roof dry in order to keep the building beneath it warm. This is
more easily and effectively achieved by engaging with a specialist such as
Gradient, because failure, in terms of flat roof design and installation, is a
very costly option.
WFRL, around the paving support, at the appropriate depth to ensure the
2
requirements – a minimum 80mm substrate depth and less than 50%
a dry weight of 80kg/m 2
load greater than 80kg/m 2
Nex xt month:
insulation?
Contact Gradient Insulation
www.gradientuk.com
@Gradient_UK
MARCH 2021 TC 59

Insulation Updates
CPD SUCCESS FOR ACTIS
Record numbers of people have been booking As well as being available directly via Actis to
places on a CPD created by insulation
building control officers, architects, specifiers
specialist Actis since it became a RIBAapproved
training course at the end of 2020. website, and the Institute's monthly
and builders, it is also promoted via RIBA’s
newsletter.
For further info on all these updates and more, visit www.total-contractor.co.uk
The session on Addressing the performance gap
with reflective insulation looks at how to combat
thermal bridging and achieve optimal energy
efficiency.
Attendance figures for the free online sessions in
January and February were at their highest level
since the sessions went online when the pandemic
first hit – up around 20% on 2020 levels.
All RIBA approved CPDs must meet strict criteria,
be educational, innovative and balanced,
address relevant statutory issues and have a
clear learning outcome. They are designed to
provide solutions to design problems and are
likely to address sustainability issues, correct
product application and legislative information.
Actis National Specification Manager Dan Anson-
Hart said: “The two sessions we’ve run since
RIBA approved the module for its members have
seen a very strong take up. The module looks at
why the performance gap exists, the effects of
external factors on the fabric efficiency of a
building, the impact of thermal bridging and how
reflective insulation can address it.”
www.insulation-actis.com
ROCKWOOL TACKLES FLAT ROOF FIRE RISK
ROCKWOOL has launched a new CPD to help roofing contractors and specifiers mitigate fire risk in flat roofs.
The new module has been developed to enhance industry understanding following regulation changes and provide
guidance on determining relevant non-combustible classifications in flat roofing systems. Following the release of its
whitepaper ‘Flat roofs: Managing fire risk in the fifth façade’, ROCKWOOL has developed a complementary CPD
module that explores the major risks and causes of roof fires and how these can be alleviated using non-combustible insulation solutions.
“Understandably there’s been a lot of focus on the combustibility of insulation products within façade systems, but despite roofs often being responsible
for the development of a fire, the role of insulation in this elevation has been side-lined,” explained Will Wigfield, Product Manager – Flat Roofs at
ROCKWOOL.
The ‘Fifth Façade’ CPD explores the role of the roof in the spread of fire and the potential risks when non-combustible roof insulation is not carefully
considered, especially when flat roofs are complex and multi-purpose in their function. The learning module also advises on current standards including
BS EN 13501-5 ‘BROOF (t4) and how to futureproof current designs to meet future policy, as well as give greater protection to buildings and their users
now. Register to attend the ROCKWOOL CPD session at rockwool.co.uk/fifthfacade.
KNAUF IS A PRIME FIT FOR LANDMARK
Landmark is a 180,000 sq ft prime office development located in Manchester’s premier business district. Partially built
off-site, it has been designed to achieve the highest sustainability standards – a BREEAM rating of ‘excellent’ and an
Energy Performance Certificate rating of A so the thermal performance of its insulation was hugely important.
Building Regulations in England and Wales ban the use of combustible materials on all buildings over 18m. With 14 floors and a
roof height of 27m, the architect, Squire and Partners, specified non-combustible insulation with Euroclass A1 Reaction to Fire
Classification rating. With this in mind, external wall sub-contractor FK Group consulted the Knauf Insulation Technical Support Above: Products from
Team for advice about which insulation to use. The team conducted 3D U-value calculations and determined that RainScreen Slab Knauf Insulation have
been used at Landmark
in thicknesses of 50mm, 100mm and 150mm would achieve the desired U-value. Landmark was built using an offsite
Offices in Manchester
construction method. Decorative concrete rainscreen panels were manufactured by Techrete in Hull. RainScreen Slab was fitted offsite before the entire
panel was transported to Manchester and craned into position on the concrete frame. The Knauf Insulation Specification Team provided further support
by carrying out visits to both the Techrete manufacturing facility and the construction site to check the insulation was being installed correctly.
www.knaufinsulation.co.uk
60 TC MARCH 2021

Article
Tool Talk
A STABLE STAND THAT DELIVERS
With their impressive ability to make clean and precise angled cuts through materials such
as wood, laminate and metal, mitre saws represent an essential tool for the sector. However,
to ensure the safe and effective operation of these systems, professionals should consider
investing in a high-quality mitre saw stand, says Lyndsey Bailey, Assistant Product Manager
at Makita UK. Below, Lyndsey discusses the benefits of using a stand and the key features
of Makita’s recently launched WST07 Mitre Saw Stand.
Amitre saw stand not only enables roofing
professionals to use mitre saws efficiently
and as intended, but also reduces the risk
of serious injuries, which could disrupt on-site
progress and delay projects. As such, it’s
imperative to choose a mitre saw stand that
offers the flexibility, quality and reliability to
ensure accurate and stable cutting.
Productivity
Look for design features that improve efficiency
whilst supporting the demands of a wide range of
cutting jobs. The WST07 Mitre Saw Stand
includes new and updated features to make the
stand easy to use, in particular the inclusion of
tool-less adjustable mitre saw bracket levers.
This enables operators to effortlessly install,
adjust and remove the saw from the stand and
the addition of a sliding rail feature means that
users can easily position their mitre saw at the
desired angle. Furthermore, to cut long pieces of
material with better accuracy, the WST07 can be
extended up to 3,830mm, and the product
incorporates left and right adjustable extension
arms for additional support. With this useful
surface area, professionals are afforded even
greater scope and efficiency with the materials
they are cutting.
Portability
For ease of transportation and storage, consider
products manufactured with materials that
provide lightweight options that also offer the
stability and strength to support large and heavy
materials. The aluminium WST07 Mitre Saw
Stand is ultra-portable and can be easily loaded
Above: Ease of transportation with Makita’s WST07 Mitre
Saw Stand. Below: The WST07 Mitre Saw Stand can work
with slide compound saws, mitre saws,
cordless slide compound saws and
cordless mitre saws.
into the back of a
small van and is
fitted with a onehanded
carrying
handle to make
on-site
transport even
easier. The
inclusion of
castors allows
operators to effortlessly
move the saw stand, even
when a mitre saw is mounted, for
quick portability. Once fully folded away, the unit
is only 1.7 metres long and weighs just 18kg
without compromise on durability and robustness
– the solution can support larger machines, with
a maximum load capacity of 225kg.
Versatility
For extended versatility, select a model that is
compatible with a wide range of mitre saws as
the perfect companion to support a broad range
of tasks. The WST07 Mitre Saw Stand can work
with slide compound saws, mitre saws, cordless
slide compound saws and cordless mitre saws,
including Makita’s brushless 18Vx2 Slide
Compound Mitre Saw 260mm LXT.
For professionals, a mitre saw stand represents
an ideal investment to help make light work of
arduous cutting tasks. What’s more, using a
mitre saw stand increases user comfort, by
working at the correct height to keep users in a
safer and more stable upright
position while they cut. This
is particularly
beneficial when
working on long
projects by
removing the
need to bend
over to make
cuts in awkward
positions, the
stand helps to
save unnecessary
stress on the knees and
the spine as well as saving
time cut after cut.
By choosing a model that offers a wide capacity
for different material sizes and weights, as well
as the portability to move to and from and around
the job site, a mitre saw stand could be the
difference in helping roofing professionals to take
on more work, more comfortably.
Contact Makita UK
www.makitauk.com
@MakitaUK
62 TC MARCH 2021

ROOF
TUBE
maximise the exposure and make
video content more accessible
www.roof-tube.co.uk
- Build your own channel and
create a new audience for your content
HG 2620 Kit
For Professional
Roong contractors.
HG 2620 E -
top performance that
leaves no margin of doubt.
Fact check: ready to start in 45 seconds, only 840
grams in weight and a life expectancy ofat least
10,000 hours, an air flow of 500 l/minand continued
use of all professional nozzles.
Just perfect!
Roofing Kit includes
HG2620 E - 110V, 20mm Flat-Angled Nozzle, 40mm
Flat-Angled Nozzle, 35mm Silicone Pressure Roller,
30mm Penny Roller, Seam Tester, Case and a
professional 110 V 50 m extension reel for free
- We can
compile playlists ensuring relevant content
is shown to your target audience
and Safety Equipment
put your business and products in front of
a new audience
Go To Your Local Roofing
Merchants & ask for the
Steinel, 7-pce. Roofing
Kit in 110V c/w 50m
Industrial Cable Reel!
For more information contact
andydunn@media-now.co.uk or
jakeroxborough@media-now.co.uk
MARCH 2021 TC 63

Updates
With street-smart designs for men and
women, all Snickers Workwear jackets
include must-have features that focus on fit
and freedom of movement as well as using
innovative fabrics that deliver long lasting
protection and stretch comfort.
Whatever you need – if it’s for work, play or
protection against hazards – Snickers Workwear
has jackets that will work on site, are ideal for
leisure, and that always ensure optimal
performance, comfort, good looks and visibility.
ALLROUNDWork Jackets are just what the name
For further info on all these updates and more, visit www.total-contractor.co.uk
FOR WORK, PLAY AND PROTECTION
suggests, delivering a great all-round
performance. There’s also FLEXIWork Jackets
that provide superb comfort and weatherproofing
if you’re always on the move, and
LITEWork Jackets that keep you feeling cool and
looking good whatever you’re doing in warm
weather.
So check out the performance, comfort and
protection features of Snickers Workwear Jackets,
there will be one to suit you – wherever you are,
whatever you need, whatever you’re doing.
www.snickersworkwear.co.uk/products/93
Snickers Workwear says its jackets are great for workwear,
protectivewear, performancewear and leisurewear.
XGT 40V CORDLESS RANGE GROWS
Makita has expanded its high-performance 40Vmax XGT range with the addition of three new tools.
The new Rotary Demolition Hammer, 216mm Slide Compound Mitre Saw and 230mm Angle Grinder all feature Makita’s
highly efficient brushless motor technology and are engineered to bring the benefits of cordless tech to high-demand
applications. The HR005GZ01 40VMax Brushless Rotary Demolition Hammer offers rotary hammer and hammer only
operating modes and is compatible with SDS-MAX chisels, drill bits up to 40mm and core bits up to 105mm. It features a The versatile LS002GZ01 Slide
Compound Mitre Saw.
variable speed trigger and delivers speeds of up to 500 revolutions per minute (rpm) and up to 2,900 blows per minute
(bpm) of hammer action. The LS002GZ01 40VMax Brushless 216mm Slide Compound Mitre Saw has an easy to set mitre range of 60° to both the left and right
as well as a 48° bevel range in each direction, making it simple to achieve the cut required. It also includes Makita’s Deep and Exact Cutting Technology (DXT)
that allows the accurate cutting of large workpieces. The LS002GZ01 offers improved dust collection when fitted to an extractor, soft start and constant speed
control functions as well as an electric brake to stop the blade in seconds every time for greater safety. The final new addition is the GA038GZ07 40VMax
Brushless 230mm Angle Grinder. The 230mm wheel diameter makes this the largest angle grinder in the XGT range and is ideal for the highest demand
applications. www.makitauk.com
A GREAT LITTLE MOVER
Brian James Trailers has launched Eco Plant, an entry-level range of beavertail plant trailers ideal for
the transportation of light plant such as scissor lifts, access platforms and mini-diggers.
The competitively priced trailers boast a gross weight of 2,600kg which, combined with a low unladen weight,
facilitates a high carrying capacity in a small package. Manufactured in the UK using the latest production Above: The Eco Plant beavertail plant trailer.
methods, the Eco Plant range comes in two variants – one with a bed size of 2.3m x 1.1m wide and a larger variant with a bed size of 2.5m x 1.5m. As
with all BJT products, these trailers come with high specification as standard and include full LED lighting, spare wheel, multiple anchor points, heavy
duty jockey wheel and cast steel lockable coupling head at no extra cost. Optional extras include digger bucket rest, ‘super-grip’ pads, machine stop bar,
manual winch and tie down straps. Lewis James, Managing Director of Brian James Trailers, said: “In recent years we have expanded and developed a
range of commercial and plant trailers that are now recognised as setting industry standards and have grown to become our biggest selling ranges. For
our Eco Plant, we’ve adopted the same build quality and design excellence to create a market-leading range of trailers ideally suited to maintenance
engineers, warehouse operators and building contractors. Eco Plant is a high quality product at a very attractive price. If you operate plant with low
ground clearance and need a small, robust and competitively priced trailer – this is the solution for you.” www.brianjamestrailers.co.uk/
64 TC MARCH 2021

GUARANTEE
CREST NELSKAMP
COVERING THE UK
IN HIGH QUALITY
CLAY & CONCRETE
ROOF TILES
AVAILABLE
STOCK!
Crest Nelskamp are one of the UK’s leading
suppliers of high quality roofing products.
Whether looking to replace your existing
roof tiles or in search of a beautiful option
for a new build, our range is certain to offer
you the perfect solution, with each tile
carefully crafted to match various building
types and environments.
> Available Stock - with excellent lead times
> Great choice of profiles and colours
> Engineered to fit quickly and easily
> High quality robust materials
> Free technical support
> 30 year manufacturer’s guarantee
Creative Roofscaping
For more information on our roofing tiles or to order
a FREE tile sample contact the Crest team today.
TECHNICAL
S U P P O R T
30
Y E A R
01430 432667 info@crest-bst.co.uk www.crest-bst.co.uk
ROOFING TILES

Updates
For further info on all these updates and more, visit www.total-contractor.co.uk
‘UK FIRST’ FOR HELMET SAFETY
Centurion Safety Products has announced a
partnership with Swedish helmet safety
technology company Mips, which will see the
British manufacturer incorporate the Mips
(Multi-directional Impact Protection System)
patented helmet-based technology within
their market-leading Nexus helmet.
When the Centurion Nexus with Mips helmet
technology launches in March 2021, Centurion will
become the first UK manufacturer to offer Mips
helmet technology in a hard hat and be the first
company globally to incorporate the new Mips
‘cradle’ rotational impact protection system into
their helmets. In contrast with
helmets which only use a foam
liner to reduce impact shock,
the Centurion Nexus already
features advanced protection in
the form of a liner and six-point cradle system,
which acts as a secondary layer, reducing impact
shock further and helping to reduce risk for
acquired brain injury. The addition of Mips helmet
technology will further enhance the protection by
decreasing rotational motion otherwise transferred
to the head from certain oblique impacts.
Nick Hurt, CEO of Centurion Safety Products, said:
WOMEN’S PERFORMANCE WORKWEAR
CORDURA Brand and Dickies have joined forces to introduce a new Performance Workwear collection for
tradeswomen, featuring products designed to provide all-day warmth, comfort and unrestricted movement.
“Our customers trust us to be at the
forefront of head protection
innovation so we are constantly
looking at how we can ensure our
products not only meet relevant
safety standards but exceed them.
“We are therefore excited to become the first
company to incorporate the Mips cradle rotational
impact protection system into our helmets. The
Mips system will be featured in our market-leading
Centurion Nexus helmet, which is already a standout
product thanks to its advanced safety
standards.” www.centurionsafety.eu
The Women’s Universal FLEX Trousers – a version of the brand’s Universal FLEX Trouser designed specifically for
women – incorporates Dickies’ FLEX fabric, and also features hardwearing CORDURA Brand fabric reinforcement in The Performance Workwear collection
includes the Universal FLEX Trousers and
high wear areas such as the knee, for added durability. It also includes Women’s Performance Workwear Leggings Performance Workwear Leggings.
providing maximum comfort and range of motion. The CORDURA fabric knee and rear patches are enhanced with a
DWR trim to provide extra integrity and protection to these sturdy leggings. “Since 1922, Dickies Workwear has been clothing tradespeople in some of the
world’s harshest working environments and today, the creation of durable, hard wearing clothing continues to be our priority,” said Simon Stroud,
Marketing Director, Dickies Workwear. “We’re always looking at how we can make the most of the latest fabric technology available and CORDURA fabric
has stood out for its ability to offer extra defence against wear and tear, particularly in areas such as elbow panels and knees, helping our clothing to last
longer. The new Dickies Women’s Universal FLEX Trouser benefits from CORDURA reinforcement in high wear areas for added durability. We know there’s a
lack of suitable workwear options for tradeswomen and we’re keen to do our part to address this.” concluded Simon. www.dickiesworkwear.com
THE LIGHT FANTASTIC!
Makita has launched a new self-balancing area site light – the latest addition to its range of LED site
lighting solutions.
The DML810 18V Self Righting Site Light LXT delivers up to 5,500 lumens (lm) and 360 degree illumination
with the option for corded or cordless operation. The self-balancing design of the Makita DML810 means that Makita’s DML810 18V Self Righting Site Light LXT.
it remains upright even when knocked or bumped, making it ideal for busy sites. The 202 super luminous
daylight white LEDs provide high quality illumination without the heat of halogens or incandescent lights. It features three operation modes, High (5,500 lm),
Medium (3,000 lm) or Low (1,500 lm), and three illumination direction modes – full 360 degrees or 180 degrees to the left or right. For versatility, the DML810
offers corded or cordless operation and utilises two Makita 18V LXT Lithium-Ion batteries, using one battery at a time. This means the light delivers up to 15
hours of continuous illumination on Low with two 5.0Ah 18V batteries, and over 3 hours on High. When using AC power, the batteries function as a power back
up to keep the area lit if the power fails. This durable light unit is 787mm high and 420mm wide and is both dust and water resistant, with an IP54 rating when
using battery power. It is also possible to connect up to 8 units together using the AC inlets and outlets to deliver light across the whole job site area. Convenient
carrying handles and a balanced side position allow for easy movement, transportation and storage. www.makitauk.com
66 TC MARCH 2021

EXCITING JOB OPPORTUNITY FOR A
TECHNICAL EXPERT
SPRA is looking for a Technical Expert to
support it’s work within the roofing industry
and SPRA Council.
We are looking for a very special person to take on this role,
which is a highly rewarding mix of technical expert advice,
quality standards development, promotion and management.
Working with a small, but highly motivated team, you
will be a key player working at the highest levels of
industry and government to ensure that the single ply
industry is maintained and promoted as the quality flat
roofing sector of choice.
This is a flexible and highly fulfilling role. Interested?
Send your CV with supporting evidence of experience to
ronan.brunton@spra.co.uk
JOIN AND HELP SHAPE THE FUTURE OF SINGLE PLY ROOFING
www.spra.co.uk

GREENSCAPE
MAGAZINE
In collaboration with
the Green Roofing
Association.
If you supply green
roofing products to
the green roof market,
Greenscape is the
magazine for you!
Get your marketing
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GREENSCAPE
Ensuring Best Practice for Green Roof & Solar PV Projects
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Andy Dunn
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Jake Roxborough
07956 133314
In collaboration with the Green Roofing Association.
From the publishers of