May 2021

MAY 2021 

The self-adhering externa al 

airtight & vapour permeab ble 

membrane 

>>> • ROOFCERT UPDATE • EAVES DETAIL ISSUES • SOLAR SURGE • SHINGLES • >>>

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Editor’s Comment 

MATT DOWNS 

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR 

MATTDOWNS@MEDIA-NOW.CO.UK 

07963 330774 

The self-adhering externa al 

airtight & vapour permeab ble 

membrane 

Whilst the events of the past year or so have had an impact on all areas 

of life, training and teaching have been hit particularly hard. 

As expected, this has had an impact on the roofing sector’s flagship 

accreditation scheme RoofCERT, which was building up a head of steam prior 

to the first lockdown. But as NFRC CEO James Talman points out in his column 

on page 18, progress has still been made over the last year despite “three 

lockdowns, CITB spending cuts and roofing contractors being exceptionally 

busy.” As James explains, “through adaptation and innovation” over 100 

roofing operatives have still been accredited with “700 more in the pipeline.” 

Looking forward it’s going to be a busy time for RoofCERT as training and 

assessment restrictions lift, and as James says the important work of creating 

relationships with housebuilders – which will increase the exposure of utilising 

RoofCERT accredited roofers to the wider industry – will take centre stage, 

alongside opening up the Experienced Worker Route to accreditation which will 

help push towards the target of 2,000 accredited roofers. 

Elsewhere in this issue, in his regular column John Mercer tackles eaves 

details (page 20); Marley’s Stuart Nicholson says don’t get left behind on the 

solar surge (page 22); the team at Quantum Insulation talk BBA Information 

Bulletin No. 4 (page 59); and Rob Firmin discusses water flow reducing layers 

on page 60. So read on for all this and much more! 

Front cover courtesy of A. Proctor Group. The team discuss issues 

around moisture management when utilising CLT construction on page 48. 

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I’d also like to make you aware of our new title Greenscape magazine which 

we have launched for the green roof and solar PV sectors in association with 

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MAY 2021 TC 3

Contents 

3 KEY FEATURES 

22 

22 FUTURE ROOFS: PV 

Marley’s Stuart Nicholson says with the changes 

to Part L next year, many new build roofs will 

include solar PV as standard, so roofers need to 

make sure they don’t miss out... 

30 HIT SHINGLES! 

SR Timber’s Shaun Revill believes that the 

combination of lockdown and the focus on 

sustainability means there’s never been a 

better time to add shingles to your offering 

34 MATERIAL CHOICES 

SIG Design & Technology’s Paul Jacobs says 

designing and installing roofing using multiple 

materials is a great business opportunity, but it 

can be a risky challenge for the roofer 

30 

FURTHER READING 

Pic credit: Featherstone Homes 

24 TRAINING DAYS 

We talk to Roof Slate Lecturer Steve Dowell of South 

Devon College in our CUPA PIZARRAS college focus 

32 ROOFLIGHTING REVOLUTIONS 

Total Contractor takes a look behind the scenes at NARM to 

hear about the challenges its tackling in rooflighting 

40 EPDM & MODULAR BUILDING 

Adrian Buttress explains why he believes EPDM can 

play its part in ‘circular construction’ 

50 CLADMASTER PART 2 

Vivalda’s Andy Thomas address the common mistakes 

made when ordering fixings for cladding projects 

34 

56 PIR / FLAT ROOF FOCUS 

Nigel Blacklock of Bauder and the IMA explains why PIR 

is a great fit for flat roofing applications 

60 ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT: 

Rob Firman talks water flow reducing layers in the first 

of a new series of articles from Polyfoam XPS 

4 TC MAY 2021

REGULARS 

18 NFRC ROOFING FOCUS 

James Talman provides an update on RoofCERT 

which, despite the challenges of last year, is 

still making progress and is set push on 

further with new initiatives 

20 PERFECTLY PITCHED 

In his latest consultant case study, John 

Mercer discusses a clay plain tile roof project 

he was called to which was suffering water 

ingress through the fascia and bargeboards 

59 QI BY QI COLUMN 

In the latest instalment of their regular 

column, the experts at Quantum Insulation 

focus on what’s changed in BBA Information 

Bulletin No. 4 

SECTIONS: 

TOTAL 

ROOFING 

20 

TOTAL 

CLADDING 

48 

INDUSTRY NEWS 

06 PUSH THE BUTTON... 

The NFRC has launched a new app which puts all the 

latest Health & Safety updates in roofers’ hands 

08 MAKE AN INFORMED DECISION 

The LRWA says its new Product Register will help users 

make an informed choice when it comes to liquid systems 

TOTAL 

INSULATION 

56 

VEHICLES, TOOLS 

& WORKWEAR 

10 

68 


Industry News 

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

IOR URGES ACTION 

FOR SITE VISITORS 

The Institute of Roofing (IOR) is urging site 

visitors to apply for a Professionally 

Qualified Person (PQP) CSCS card to 

address concerns raised by manufacturers 

about access to construction sites. 

The problems follow the withdrawal of the 

CSCS visitor card which stopped being issued 

at the end of February 2020. Existing visitor 

cards remain valid until their listed expiry date. 

Recent reports from manufacturers have 

highlighted that without this card, members of 

their inspection teams are struggling to get 

onto site to carry out their role for projects. 

The IOR has investigated the issue and found 

that the PQP card is the most appropriate 

alternative. Valid for five years, a PQP card 

certifies that the holder is a qualified member 

of an approved professional body, and has the 

skills and knowledge required to work on a 

construction site without special supervision, 

even if they are not typically based on site. 

The IOR is an approved body, so all its 

members can apply for a PQP card, which can 

be done via the CSCS website. Applicants will 

need to supply proof of membership. Stuart 

Hicks, CEO of the IOR, said: “Our membership 

can be used as proof of qualification, or 

working towards a qualification, which is the 

criteria needed to apply for a PQP card. Gaining 

this card will overcome the issues that visiting 

staff from manufacturers and other disciplines 

have experienced in gaining access to 

construction sites to carry out their work. If any 

of our members have colleagues that would 

benefit from this route to a PQP card, they will 

need to apply for an IOR membership via our 

website and achieve a grade of Associate, 

Member or Fellow. This will depend on meeting 

certain qualification criteria which can be 

viewed on our website.” 

www.instituteof roofing.org 

HEALTH & SAFETY AT THE TOUCH OF A BUTTON 

NFRC has launched a brand-new app focused Commenting on the launch of the app, Bob 

on health and safety for NFRC members and Richardson, NFRC Head of Technical and Training, 

their operatives. The app fully digitalises the said: “This app provides an important day-to-day 

popular ‘Health & Safety Passport’, which reminder for operatives – even when there is no 

previously had been a printed booklet that phone signal – on the safe working practices that 

operatives could carry with them on site. This must be considered an essential part of all site 

will mean operatives will now have access to working. It contains a wealth of information, from 

all the health and safety information they need working at height to fire safety to Covid-safe 

from their smartphone. 

guidelines, complementing site-specific health 

and safety documentation. 

As part of the launch, the Passport’s content has 

been fully updated to include recent changes in He added: “The Covid-19 pandemic has 

legislation and guidance, and new sections giving demonstrated the importance of being agile and 

advice and information on mental health and getting critical information and updates out to the 

Covid-19. NFRC says the app is future-proofed to industry quickly. Through this innovative new app, 

allow the team to remotely update information as we will be able to update the Health & Safety 

and when it is required, so operatives always Passport in real-time, rather than reprinting and 

have the latest information 

distributing thousands of booklets every time 

when they open the app. 

health and safety legislation changes. 

Contractors can therefore be assured that 

As a Member Benefit, the 

the information their operatives have is 

app will only be 

the most up-to-date.” 

available for NFRC 

Members and their 

He concluded: “We hope that this is 

operatives, and any 

just the beginning and if the app 

roofing operatives who 

proves popular, we will be able to 

have not received their 

expand the content to include other 

log-in details are 

NFRC technical guidance and in 

encouraged to contact the 

time other areas of NFRC 

NFRC Helpdesk. 

activity.” 

ONDULINE IS NOW PART OF ONDURA GROUP 

Onduline, the lightweight roofing 

and professional customers. 

specialist, has announced it is now 

The Group brings together three 

part of the newly-created Ondura 

leading companies under one roof: 

Group, an international business 

Onduline, for lightweight roofing 

dedicated to waterproofing 

solutions and pitched roofs, alwitra, 

solutions for buildings. 

high quality waterproofing systems for flat 

The Group has been formed by Naxicap Partners roofs, and CB, façade and roof membranes for 

following the acquisition of the Polish company CB pitched roofs. 

in 2019, and of Germany-based alwitra. 

Paul Duffy (pic), MD for Onduline in the UK, said: 

Ondura says it provides a unique solution for “As part of Ondura Group we can offer an even 

waterproofing roofs and buildings for both private wider portfolio of solutions to our customers.” 


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Industry News 


NEW AJW CATALOGUE 

DELIVERS SO MUCH 

AJW Distribution has launched a 

comprehensive new catalogue which not 

only showcases its range of roofing and 

cladding solutions, but also provides its 

customers with an extensive range of 

product information. 

The company wanted to make the buying 

process easier for its customers when 

deciding which product to use for each 

project; for example, ensuring they purchase 

the right tile for the low-pitched extension they 

are working on. 

AJW says the new catalogue also gives 

customers a guide which they can showcase 

to their client so they are aware of what tiles 

they can choose for their project. 

A spokesperson for AJW explained: “The 

Marketing team have done an outstanding job 

working on this catalogue through the Covid 

Pandemic. We are extremely proud of what we 

have achieved and what we will be presenting 

to our customers. We have received great 

support from our suppliers and showcase a 

number via adverts and case studies throughout 

the catalogue.” 

Marketing Assistant, Cintia Woods, 

commented: “For me, it has been a pleasure 

to be able to create these exceptional 400 

pages filled with key information on the 

products and eye-catching adverts, all 

delivered with a fresh and clean design. I hope 

you will like it as much as we do at AJW.” 

For more information, please visit 

www.ajwdistribution.com 

LIQUIDS: MAKE AN INFORMED DECISION 

The Liquid Roofing and 

The LRWA says every product in 

Waterproofing Association 

the Register is listed with key 

(LRWA) has launched a free, 

features and a link to further 

online tool that enables users to 

information such as approved 

quickly assess the suitability of 

applications, evidence of 

liquid roofing systems. 

durability, and properties in 

relation to fire. There is also a function that allows 

Aimed at contractors, specifiers, and distributors, 

different liquid systems to be compared. 

the LRWA says the Product Register compiles 

information from third-party certifications, Sarah Spink, CEO of the LRWA, said: “Selecting an 

including agrément and European Technical inappropriate product can result in a project failing, 

Approval (ETA) certificates, into an easy-to-read so verifying the performance of a liquid is essential. 

format, and it allows the user to search for a The data in agrément and ETA certificates will 

preferred manufacturer via a drop-down list or a confirm whether the system will meet specified 

product name if known. 

requirements, but this information can be difficult to 

understand and one of our biggest concerns is that 

Alternatively, if the user is unsure about which liquid 

people don’t read it properly. This can lead to 

roofing system to use, they can carry out a search 

inaccurate assumptions or a reliance on 

using six filters, which will create a random list of 

manufacturers’ product claims, some of which can 

potential products. 

be misleading. The Product Register has been 

The filters include the material, for example, designed to overcome these issues. It brings verified 

polyurethane; the type of roof that needs 

product data into one place, which is easy to search 

waterproofing such as inverted, pitched or a terrace; and navigate, enabling anyone seeking to install or 

the level of foot traffic; the required lifespan of the specify a liquid waterproofing solution to make an 

roof area; what type of substrate will be coated; and informed decision.” 

whether it is a new build or refurbishment project. https://product-register.lrwa.org.uk 

GRO’S MEMBERSHIP CONTINUES TO GROW 

GRO, the Green Roof 

with Queen’s University in 

Organisation, has seen a big 

Belfast with regards to their 

influx of new members this 

plans to improve biodiversity on 

year, including the likes of 

the campus. 

Proteus Waterproofing, 

In the Republic of Ireland, Noel 

Mobilane UK, the Green 

also explained he has his first private biodiverse 

Infrastructure Consultancy, HUBBUB and Greater 

green roof installation approved, is working with 

Manchester Combined Authority, and the most 

Trinity College in Dublin and has recently been in 

recent addition is Sweeney Landscape Design. 

discussions with Guinness regarding greening 

As a leading Green Infrastructure contractor their Enterprise Centre. Noel says his long-term 

based in Belfast and operating in both Northern ambition is to establish an Irish Green 

Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, Sweeney Infrastructure Association modelled on GRO to 

Landscape Design Managing Director Noel represent both the North and South of Ireland. 

Sweeney explained in his application that he 

currently has his first private biodiverse green Find more green roof and associated news and 

roof installation approved and is in discussion content over at www.greenscapemag.co.uk 


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Industry News 


NORTH EAST ‘GET READY FOR ROOFING’ PROGRAMME LAUNCHED 

Two North East roofing contractors have joined 

forces with Redcar and Cleveland College to help 

tackle the industry skills gaps and kick-start 

high quality, long-term career opportunities. 

Working in conjunction with the college, Stocktonbased 

Barclay Roofing and Redcar’s AAA Roofing 

have developed an intensive six-week course that 

aims to give people who are currently unemployed 

the opportunity to test their suitability for a career 

in the trade. 

Funded by the Tees Valley Mayor and Combined 

Authority, those that complete the ‘Get Ready for 

Roofing’ programme will receive a guaranteed 

interview for a six-month kickstart paid work 

placement, and the chance of future employment. 

Esme Flounders, Business Development Director at 

Barclay Roofing, said: “Here at Barclay Roofing we 

are finding it more and more difficult to attract 

skilled workers into our business. We know this is an 

industry-wide issue, but it is particularly pertinent 

across the Tees Valley because of a historic lack of 

dedicated training resources in this area. Although 

we are fortunate to have very low staff turnover, 

with many of our skilled tradespeople being of 

long service, as one of the larger roofing 

contractors in the region, we feel a responsibility 

to our industry to change this and secure the longterm 

future of our trade.” 

By working directly with employers, the new course 

has been created to test aptitude for a career in 

the technically demanding roofing industry and 

includes everything a candidate will need to safely 

work on site and begin longer term accredited 

training. Offering an introduction to construction 

skills, working at heights, health and safety, 

asbestos and abrasive wheels awareness, the 

course also covers personal development, 

interview skills and the CSCS Test and Green Card. 

With the potential to move into employment 

following the work placement, Esme added that 

Esme Flounders, Business Development Director at Barclay 

Roofing and Ben Blackburn, Managing Director of AAA Roofing. 

the course is a huge step forward for construction 

skills in the Tees Valley, as those who wish to 

follow an apprenticeship in a roofing discipline 

must currently travel to Newcastle or Leeds. 

There are 16 work placements available between 

the two employers. Whilst needing a good head for 

heights, potential recruits must be aged 18 to 24, 

claiming Universal credit and be referred to the 

programme by their JCP Work Coach. Candidates 

and employers who are interested in learning 

more can contact the team on 01642 865561 or 

email employability@stockton.ac.uk 

RUSSELL SUPPLIES MOD PROJECT IN SOUTH 

Russell Roof Tiles has been selected for its to bring all units back from Germany. This 

first Ministry of Defence (MOD) re-roofing programme includes funding for accommodation 

project in Oxfordshire – the latest in a long improvements and will provide about 1,500 new 

line of MOD contracts. 

homes for Service families, 4,500 new single living 

accommodation bed spaces and working, technical 

The manufacturer says it created a specific delivery 

and training infrastructure. 

schedule to hit extremely tight deadlines supplied 

by the main contractor, leading infrastructure firm Russell Roof Tiles says it was able to provide the 

Amey. With an estimated completion date of necessary advice to ensure that the tiles and 

Autumn 2021, the development is part of the Army accessories ensured consistency and longevity for 

Basing Programme (ABP) in Shrivenham, 

MOD while minimising future lifetime costs of the 

Oxfordshire. 

roof once installed. 

The Army Basing Programme (ABP) is a £1.8 billion For the Oxfordshire project Russell Roof Tiles is 

capital infrastructure programme, delivering Service supplying tiles from its Commercial Range – 

Family Accommodation homes for Service personnel Highland in Cottage Red. The Highland tile is a 

and their families, as well as refurbishing key traditional flat roof tile with a mock joint which is 

infrastructure. It is providing the facilities to enable laid broken bonded. The manufacturer says the 

nearly 100 Army units to relocate, reconfigure, Russell Commercial Range tiles are traditional sized 

disband or re-role and deliver the Government’s interlocking tiles in a variety of profiles which 

Strategic Defence and Security Review commitment provide a cost-effective roofing solution. 

SOLAR SHOWS UP! 

175 MW of photovoltaic (PV) solar capacity 

was installed across the UK from January – 

March 2021, new figures released by Solar 

Energy UK and Solar Media show. 

This significant growth over the winter period 

brings the UK’s total installed PV capacity to 

more than 14 GW, generating enough 

electricity to power over 3 million homes. 

Ground-mounted solar parks form 70% of 

the new capacity, while post-subsidy rooftop 

markets also continue to thrive. Rooftop solar 

capacity has seen 14% year-on-year growth. 

Subsidy-free solar PV in the UK now exceeds 

1 GW, or 7.3% of total installed capacity. On 

a rolling basis, 660 MW of new capacity was 

installed in the 12-month period to 31 March 

2021, and the UK could be on track to deliver 

a gigawatt of new solar capacity this year. 


Handrails:- EasyGuard 

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Trip hazard reduction – long thin base-plates with 

Counterweights used on un-secured ends only. Placed at 2m 

centres maximum to enable use for leading edge protection. 

Galvanised or powder coated finish. Protective mats 5mm 

bonded to the base plates. 

Standards – Exceeds Class A EN13374- Class A; For 

leading edge protection HSE/SR 15, September 1988. 

Nationwide delivery or contract installation. – Free material 

quantifying service – info@safetyworksandsolutions.co.uk 

Ladders:- Easy Fit 

Compliant to both BS/EN 5395 and 14122 – 

To comply with the standards for 

permanent ladders all mild steel then hot 

dipped galvanised to BS/EN 1461. 

All typical ladders bespoke – email 

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Easy Fit, all ladder components are Easy 

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Rest Platforms and ladders with special 

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Industry News 


BOND IT EXPANDS AND RESTRUCTURES 

Bond It, one of the UK’s fastest growing 

manufacturers of sealants, adhesives and 

building chemicals, has announced it is about 

to undergo a huge change as we enter quarter 

2 of 2021. 

On the back of its recent acquisition of the Rescue 

Tape brand of self-fusing Silicone Tape, 

manufactured in North Carolina and distributed 

through warehouses in North Carolina and Los 

Angeles, the company has now successfully 

launched the Bond It brand into the North 

American market. 

As a result, David Moore, one of the company’s 

founding partners, will take on the role of CEO of 

Bond It Group and will split his time equally 

between the UK and the USA to oversee the 

smooth integration and distribution of Bond It 

products into the States. 

To help him in this role, Bond It has announced 

the appointment of Dean Morgan as Managing 

Director of the UK operation. Dean will bring with 

him a wealth of experience of manufacturing, as 

well as already having a long established 

relationship with Bond It. 

David Moore explained: “Dean was instrumental 

in guiding Bond It through the implementation of 

ISO 9001, 140001 and the recent 450001 

FOUR IOR HONORARY FELLOWS ANNOUNCED 

The Institute of Roofing (IOR) has named four 

honorary fellows in recognition of their longstanding 

service and outstanding contribution 

to the roofing industry. 

The honorary fellowships have been awarded 

worldwide to Detlef Stauch, Peter Plum, Reid 

Ribble and Dr Bill Chan. 

Graeme Millar, board director at the IOR, said: “All 

four honorary fellows have made massive 

contributions to the roofing industry and are still 

Global expansion and restructuring of Bond It: Dean Morgan, 

left, has been appointed Managing Director, Bond It UK, with 

David Moore, right, becoming CEO of Bond It Group. 

systems and has worked with us for 12 years as a 

consultant. 

“I believe Dean is the right person to guide Bond It 

to its next level of evolution.” 

Dean has gained over 40 years of experience in 

various manufacturing companies and has indepth 

knowledge of trouble shooting, product 

development, management systems and driving 

improved financial performance. 

The company says he will be a major asset in his 

new role and will direct the company looking to 

streamline the processes already existing as part 

of its ISO Management System, looking to improve 

efficiency, productivity and quality of the 

reputable Bond It brands. 

www.bonditgroup.com 

doing so. Their dedication is truly exceptional, and 

this has had a positive impact both in the UK and 

right across the world.” 

Stuart Hicks, CEO of the IOR, added: “It is 

fantastic to see honorary fellowships being 

awarded across four different continents and to 

people who have demonstrated some of the 

strongest and most impressive skills across our 

industry. Their valued contributions have helped 

to shape standards and enhance professionalism 

in the UK and internationally.” 

CUPA COMMITS TO 

COLLEGE STUDENTS 

Spanish slate manufacturer CUPA PIZARRAS 

has announced it is continuing its college 

sponsorship scheme for a third year and 

extending it to include an additional college. 

The annual program includes CPD 

presentations, free of charge slate pallets and a 

trip to CUPA PIZARRAS’ quarries in Spain, when 

COVID-19 allows. 

Recommended to CUPA PIZARRAS by the 

National Federation of Roofing Contractors 

(NFRC), the colleges were chosen for the 

outstanding achievements of their students. 

Currently on the sponsorship scheme are South 

Devon College, Leeds College of Building, 

Newcastle College, Edinburgh College, Dundee 

and Angus College and finally Bolton College, 

which was a new addition this academic year. 

CUPA PIZARRAS says a core part of the 

sponsorship includes the presentation of its 

RIBA-approved CPD, The Definitive Natural 

Slate, to the colleges. This CPD covers 

everything a construction professional needs to 

know about natural slate, from production 

process to installation. 

“Despite many of the colleges having to switch 

to online learning over the past year, restricting 

the students’ hands-on learning, all the 

students have been able to benefit from the 

online CPD seminars, YouTube training videos 

and technical guides that we were still able to 

provide,” commented Julian Gomez, Director of 

Marketing at CUPA PIZARRAS. 


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Industry News 

ROOFING MOVES & 

APPOINTMENTS 

• NARM, the National 

Association of Rooflight 

Manufacturers, has 

appointed Tom Ogilvie as 

Chairman. He takes over the 

role from Jim Lowther, who has 

announced his retirement following many 

years of service to NARM and the broader 

rooflight industry. 

• SPRA has announced that 

Anthony Hogan has joined its 

team as a Technical Expert. 

Anthony commented: “I am 

delighted to be joining SPRA as 

it is such a highly respected organisation, 

and I look forward to working with Ronan 

and the rest of the SPRA team.” 

• Kemper System has 

appointed Peter Barber as 

Technical Sales Manager. 

With more than 30 years’ 

experience of the building 

materials and flat roofing industry, Peter 

will be responsible for building client 

relationships across the south of England. 

Working with specifiers and contractors, 

he will focus on developing opportunities 

for specification both in the new build and 

refurbishment sectors. 

• Nicola Trainor has joined 

Russell Roof Tiles as 

Logistics Manager at its 

Burton HQ. She joins the 

manufacturer with over a 

decade’s worth of experience in the 

transport sector. As Logistics Manager, 

Nicola’s primary focus is to plan and 

manage the dedicated transport team and 

hauliers, despatching goods from its three 

plants to construction sites across the UK. 

MARLEY TAKES BIGGER STEP INTO SOLAR 

Marley has acquired Viridian Solar. 

The acquisition builds upon a commercial 

partnership between the two companies 

announced in 2020, that saw Viridian Solar’s 

BIPV added to Marley’s extensive range of roofing 

products to complete a comprehensive roof 

system offer for the UK building industry. 

Established in 2003, Viridian Solar has gone on to 

build a strong reputation as an innovative 

“Our ambitious growth plans will now be 

manufacturer of high-quality, roof-integrated 

supported by the resources and reputation of 

solar PV systems, supplying all the major UK 

being part of one of the biggest and most 

housebuilders. 

respected names in the roofing sector, with the 

The deal will see Viridian continue to operate as a backing of Inflexion Private Equity Partners, who 

standalone entity, retaining its existing 

manage assets of £5.4bn globally.” 

management team and continuing to support its 

David Speakman, CEO of Marley, added: “The 

customers directly. 

acquisition brings together two complementary 

Stuart Elmes, CEO of Viridian Solar, commented: companies, both of which are influential players, 

“The last eighteen years have just flown by and, with highly regarded reputations in the 

whilst we are proud of what we have achieved as construction market. Viridian’s strong relationship 

a team, our eyes remain firmly on the future. We with housing developers and solar distributors is 

are looking forward to working with our new complemented by Marley’s commercial reach into 

colleagues at Marley to open an exciting new social housing and among roofing installers.” 

chapter in the development of Viridian Solar. More from Marley on page 22 

SIG UK ACQUIRES F30 BUILDING PRODUCTS 

SIG UK has announced that Bristol-based The SIG UK Leadership Team will work closely 

construction product supplier F30 Building with staff at F30, investing in its people and 

Products has joined the SIG group. 

systems to create a strong framework for the 

future and to further strengthen the business’s 

F30 Building Products is a national supplier with 

first-rate service to customers by growing its 

a broad range of specialist products. Established 

already extensive product range. 

in 2012, the company says it prides itself on its 

staff’s technical expertise, the non-biased advice Rob Pearce, Managing Director at F30 and 

and high levels of customer service they provide, Divisional Director of SIG Construction 

along with its comprehensive stock range and Accessories South, said: “This move is in line 

commitment to next-day delivery. 

with continuing efforts by SIG to strengthen its 

local service and increase its offering to 

SIG UK says F30 Building Products, which 

customers nationwide. I look forward to working 

operates from branches in Bristol and Plymouth, 

with my new colleagues and expanding our 

will continue to trade under its current name and 

capabilities for the benefit of customers in the 

branding but with the full support of SIG 

South West and throughout the UK.” 

Distribution’s local network. 


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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. 

In the second instalment 

of Vivalda Group’s CladMaster 

series, Vivalda London Branch 

Manager Andy Thomas outlines 

three things you need to get 

right when ordering fixings. 

With this year’s LRWA Virtual 

Dragon Team Challenge under way, 

follow the progress on social media 

and take a look back at last year’s 

event over on Roof Tube 

E 

TUBE 

PRACTICAL VIDEOS 

INSTALLATION ADVICE 

STEP BY STEP GUIDANCE 

THE ONLINE 

COMMUNITY FOR 

ROOFING AND 

CLADDING 

INDUSTRY 

16 T C MAY 2021 ESSENTIAL READING FOR ROOFING, CLADDING & INSULATION CONTRACTORS

Technical Roofing 

Consultant John Mercer 

provides practical advice 

and guidance on how 

to reduce the risk of 

efflorescence forming on 

concrete roof tiles 

The experts at 

Made for Trade have 

produced a short video 

to show just how easy 

the Korniche Lantern is 

to install! You really could 

be ‘fitting in minutes – 

glazing in seconds… and 

having a brew before you 

know it!’ 

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 

MAY 2021 T C 17

NFRC Roofing Focus 

FUTURE PLANS FOR ROOFCERT AS 

MOMENTUM CONTINUES TO BUILD... 

In his latest column, James Talman, NFRC CEO, gives an update on RoofCERT which, 

despite lockdowns and other challenges, is making good progress but still needs further 

sector support reach its goals. 

Despite three lockdowns, CITB spending 

cuts, and roofing contractors being 

exceptionally busy, RoofCERT, through 

adaptation and innovation, has still been able to 

accredit over 100 roofing operatives over the last 

year, with 700 more in the pipeline. 

As training and assessment restrictions start to 

lift, the programme can now support those in the 

pipeline to achieve their full accreditation. We are 

also able to proceed with a several exciting 

initiatives which have been delayed due to 

lockdown. 

Partnership with housebuilders 

One of the key focus areas for RoofCERT this year 

will be the home building industry. We are 

pleased to have the support of the Home Building 

Federation (HBF)’s Home Building Skills 

Partnership and are currently working 

collaboratively with several large housebuilders, 

one example being Redrow Homes. 

The quality of new build homes is in the spotlight 

currently and this is reflected in the strategic 

aims of virtually all of the top ten housebuilders 

as set out in their 

Annual Reports. 

RoofCERT is designed to 

help housebuilders 

improve quality and 

productivity, as well as 

help them to identify 

any skills and 

knowledge gaps. This in 

turn will lead to the 

development of learning 

and training content as 

part of the Continuous 

Professional Development of 

operatives. 

“We are one of 

the few sectors in 

construction that have 

created an initiative 

like this, and we should 

be proud of that” 

Experienced Worker Route (EWR) moves 

one step closer 

There are two main routes to RoofCERT 

accreditation for operatives, qualified roofers – 

those who hold a vocational qualification – and 

experienced roofers with more than five years of 

experience through the Experienced Worker Route 

(EWR). 

Due to the impact of Covid-19, we have not yet 

been able to launch EWR so have had to rely 

solely on roofers with a vocational qualification. 

However, as lockdown has started to ease, we are 

now scheduling 100 

EWR assessments as 

part of a pilot 

programme with the 

CITB. This will provide 

essential feedback for 

the roll out of EWR for 

those thousands of 

experienced roofers who 

don’t have a vocational 

qualification and whose 

CSCS card will need 

renewing by 2024. All 

Left: James Talman, NFRC. 

“One of the key 

focus areas for 

RoofCERT this 

year will be the 

home building 

industry” 

CSCS cards renewed through the Experienced 

Worker Route will clearly recognise the RoofCERT 

on the card with full details of the individuals 

skills on the card’s microchip. We will be 

publicising more details on this shortly. 

We need your support 

So whilst we are progressing in several areas, we 

cannot do this alone. 

We are one of the few sectors in construction that 

have created an initiative like this, and we should 

be proud of that. Our initial ambition is to achieve 

2,000 accredited roofers which will provide a 

platform to develop a sustainable model for 

industry to run itself. To achieve this we really 

need your support. 

If you are a contractor, sign your operatives up; if 

you are an operative, start the RoofCERT journey 

by booking a knowledge test; if you are a training 

provider or part of a training group, could you help 

us facilitate health and safety training and 

knowledge tests? If you are able to help in any 

other way, let us know. 

Find out more about RoofCERT / NFRC 

https://roofcert.co.uk/ 

www.nfrc.co.uk 


Perfectly Pitched 

CONSULTANT CASE STUDY: 

EAVES DETAILING IN FOCUS 

Technical Roofing Consultant John Mercer teamed up with roofing expert Chris Thomas 

for a survey of a traditional handmade clay plain tile roof, which had suffered from water 

ingress through the fascia and bargeboards. As John explains, as is often the case, the 

issue was with the detailing at the eaves and subsequent troughing in the underlay… 

Irecently inspected a traditional handmade 

clay plain tile roof where water has been 

running through the fascia and bargeboards, 

causing damage to the timberwork. 

I was accompanied during the inspection by Chris 

Thomas, whom I persuaded to come out of 

retirement temporarily to assist me. Chris has a 

vast wealth of knowledge on roofing, and he wrote 

an article many years ago on eaves detailing, so it 

was great to have him along. 

One of the most common problems I 

come across when carrying out 

roof surveys is the detailing at 

eaves, and in particular the 

lack of support for the 

underlay behind the fascia 

board or eaves tilt fillet. This 

causes a trough in the underlay 

directly behind the fascia, which can 

trap and collect water. 

“It is important that the underlay be laid to 

ensure that any water in the batten cavity can be 

drained safely into the gutters” 

Left: John Mercer, Technical Roofing Consultant. 

The water invariably leaks 

through the underlay as it 

finds its way through any cuts 

and nail holes. 

The importance of the 

underlay’s function as a watertight 

layer is often overlooked. The underlay 

is the last line of defence if water is driven 

through the tiling in extreme weather conditions, 

and with the use of vapour and air permeable 

membranes there is the likelihood of 

condensation forming within the batten cavity. 

Therefore, it is important that the underlay be laid 

to ensure that any water in the batten cavity can 

be drained safely into the gutters. 

Manufacturer’s details always show the underlay 

fully supported at eaves, whether it be by a 

plywood board or proprietary plastic underlay 

support tray, though it is surprising how often 

these are omitted. 

Above: Roofing expert Chris Thomas, who accompanied John on this survey, checks the roof pitch at the eaves. 

It is not good practice to continue the general 

underlay into the gutter as it will degrade through 

exposure to sunlight, therefore the common 

solution is to install proprietary plastic eaves 

support trays which not only support the underlay 

behind the fascia at the correct fall, but they also 

extend into the gutter and are UV-stable. The 

alternative solution is to fit a timber support and 

lay a minimum 300mm wide strip of 5U 

bituminous underlay at eaves, which being 

resistant to UV degradation can extend into the 

gutter. 


Above left: Diagram shows air path through eaves ventilator. Right: Wrongly installed underlay with sag behind fascia. 

The rafter pitch on the roof surveyed is 45 

degrees, therefore it should be quite simple to 

provide a support for the underlay at the eaves. 

Unfortunately, the fascias are set too high, 

resulting in a ‘bellcast’ eaves detail. This does 

not contravene BS 5534 recommendations for 

double lapped plain tiles, provided that the tiles in 

the bellcast section of the roof are still set above 

their minimum recommended roof pitch, which in 

this case they are. But it does make correctly 

detailing the eaves support and underlay more 

difficult. A fall in the underlay must be 

maintained behind the fascia; if this is not 

possible, it would be necessary to lower the 

fascias. The eaves detail was further complicated 

because there are over fascia ventilators 

installed, therefore an air path from the 

ventilators to the roof space must be maintained. 

The distance between the top of the fascia and 

fascia ventilator to the first course under-eaves 

tiling batten was too short to fit standard plastic 

underlay support trays without having to cut each 

tray. Therefore, the solution found was to install 

specially cut softwood timbers to support the 

underlay to the correct fall towards the gutter, 

shaped to maintain the air path from the eaves. 

The diagram above left shows the detail. 

When constructing a roof, the fascias or tilt fillets 

should ideally be set to support the tiles at the 

same relative pitch as the tiles above. This 

becomes even more important where the roof 

pitch is at, or close to, the minimum 

recommended roof pitch of the tiles. If the tiles in 

the eaves courses are set below their minimum 

recommended pitch, there is a risk of water 

ingress through the tiling at the point in the roof 

where there is most water as it runs down from 

the roof slope above. 

For double lapped plain tiles, a change in pitch – 

which is what a bellcast eaves is – affects tiles 

in several courses up from the eaves, not just at 

the point of the change in pitch. For single lapped 

tiles, a bellcast eaves is not recommended 

because it directly affects the way the tiles 

overlap and can interfere with the headlaps’ 

normal water-shedding function. 

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 

In summary: 

• Set the fascias or tilt fillets to support 

the eaves course tiles at the same relative 

pitch as the tiles above. 

• Ensure there is full support behind the 

fascia for the underlay to lay at an 

adequate fall towards the gutter. 

• Do not extend the roof underlay into the 

gutter. Install proprietary underlay support 

trays or use strips of 5U bituminous 

underlay which is more resistant to UV 

attack. 

• Ensure a clear air path is maintained for 

ventilation at eaves into the roof space. 


Solar PV Opportunities 

FUTURE ROOFS WILL BE SOLAR 

ROOFS – SO DON’T MISS OUT! 

When changes to Part L are introduced next year, it is anticipated that many new build 

roofs will include solar PV as standard. Stuart Nicholson, Roof Systems Director at Marley, 

says all contractors should consider adding solar services to avoid losing revenue. 

In January, the Government set out the draft 

regulations for the 2025 Future Homes 

Standard, which will require all new homes to 

be highly energy efficient, with low carbon 

heating, and be zero carbon ready by 2025. To 

ensure the industry is prepared for this, new 

homes will be expected to produce 31% lower 

carbon emissions from 2022 as part of changes 

to Part L of the Building Regulations. 

This improvement in energy efficiency cannot be 

made by simple enhancements to the building 

fabric and at this stage, solar PV on the roof with 

an efficient gas boiler appears to be the easiest 

and most cost-effective way for housebuilders to 

meet the new Part L targets. 

Indeed, if the changes to Part L have the impact 

and effect that we expect, around 33% of the roof 

covering in new builds could be in solar PV, 

alongside continued growth in the retrofit market. 

In a highly competitive market, the ability for 

contractors to offer these increased solar services 

could be the difference between winning or losing 

jobs, or risk losing revenue to subcontracted solar 

installers. 

The future roofing market & solar PV 

Solar PV represents such an important part of the 

future roofing market that we have recently 

acquired Viridian Solar, the manufacturers of the 

PV panels in our Marley SolarTile. 

The acquisition of Viridian Solar allows us to offer 

a fully integrated, easy to install, solar PV roof 

system solution from a single source. 

Integrated PV systems, like our Marley SolarTile, 

are designed so they can be installed by roofing 

contractors because they simply replace a section 

of roof tiles or slates, acting 

as a seamless part of the 

roof design. They are easy to 

install with a simple push 

together design and 

electrical connection can be 

done once the roofer has 

finished fitting the panels, so it 

doesn’t hold up the job. It is fully 

compatible with our full roof system 

and is covered by the 15-year system 

warranty. 

So what can contractors do now to 

prepare for the changes to Part L? 

1. Become MCS certified or form a solar 

partnership The Microgeneration Certification 

Scheme (MCS) covers installations of products 

used to produce electricity and heat from 

renewable sources, including solar. So, while you 

don’t have to be certified to install Marley 

SolarTile, it is required that the whole project is 

overseen and signed off by an MCS certified 

installer. 

Therefore, you can either form a partnership with 

a certified electrical contractor or become MCS 

certified to help differentiate your business. To 

apply, you will need to get the appropriate training 

for solar PV connection and apply to a 

certification body to arrange assessment. More 

information can be found at Becoming certified - 

MCS (mcscertified.com). 

2. Take advantage of free training and 

resources To help you make the most of solar PV 

opportunities and gain confidence in installation, 

we will be running free training courses 

throughout 2021, with face-to-face training 

programs taking place when 

national lockdown 

restrictions and social distancing 

guidelines are eased. There are also 

easy to follow demonstration videos 

and estimating tools on our website. 

3. Familiarise yourself with the solar PV 

systems available Look for a reliable and highquality 

roof-integrated solar PV system, as almost 

all new builds favour these over ‘on-roof’ 

traditional panels because of their superior 

aesthetics. With an integrated system, both tiles 

and PV are installed together, so there is no 

modification to the roof tiles, securing the 

warranty. 

Our integrated SolarTile is compatible with all our 

clay and concrete tiles and slates, so solar PV 

can easily be incorporated into any roof design. 

The advantage of our system is that it has an 

integrated tray so no counter battens are 

required, making it easier to install with higher 

wind and fire resistance than separate tray 

systems. 

4. Seek advice For advice on getting started with 

solar you can speak to your local Marley roofing 

specialist or visit www.marley.co.uk/solarinstall 

Contact Marley 

01283 722588 

www.marley.co.uk 

@MarleyLtd 

Left: Marley recently acquired 

Viridian Solar, who manufactures 

the PV panels in its Marley 

SolarTile. Inset Stuart Nicholson, 

Marley Roof Systems Director. 


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Training Focus 

A HANDS-ON APPROACH TO 

COLLEGE SPONSORSHIP 

Throughout the academic year, CUPA PIZARRAS has been proudly sponsoring six 

different colleges across the UK to help students expand their skillset and succeed in 

their studies. In the second instalment of this series, Total Contractor met with Steve 

Dowell, Lecturer of Roof Slate at South Devon College, to discuss the impact of the 

sponsorship on his students and to hear how he has changed his teaching methods to 

adapt to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Could you tell us about the sponsorship 

and how your students have benefitted? 

CUPA PIZARRAS’ college sponsorship provides 

pallets of free slate to the colleges for use during 

training as well as training videos and merchandise. 

It is an incredible opportunity that ensures we have 

enough slate to teach all the required practices. 

Roofing materials can be expensive to purchase 

and of course we do experience a high level of 

material wastage with the students who are just 

starting out; with breakages, not cutting, dressing 

or holing the slates correctly. The donation of 

these slates means students are able to keep 

practicing until they are competent with their 

tools and know how to set roofs out properly. 

Under normal circumstances, there is also the 

opportunity for four apprentices from each college 

to visit Spain and see CUPA PIZARRAS’ quarries. 

We’ll obviously have to see how things are given 

the pandemic, but in previous years this really 

helped to stimulate some healthy competition 

within the class for a spot on this trip, which has 

led to improved attendance, attention to detail, 

and all written course work completed to a high 

standard. 

The sponsorship makes a big difference to the 

students. Being an apprentice can be challenging 

as it is necessary to juggle both learning new 

skills and working. I think being backed by a highquality 

product manufacturer, providing us with 

slate and training really gives the students the 

confidence to succeed. 

Despite many of the challenges we faced when 

we had to switch to online teaching over the past 

year, restricting the students’ hands-on learning, 

all the students have been able to benefit from 

the online training videos and technical guides. 

Due to COVID-19, how have your 

students been impacted? 

It has been difficult for them 

because their practical skills have 

been impacted and this will have to 

be taught at some point. However, 

they have had the advantage of working 

with roofing material non-stop for the past 12 

months. They are also all fortunate because none 

of them were furloughed during the pandemic and 

were able to gain some real hands-on experience 

at their apprenticeships, which is one of the most 

important parts of their education. 

How have you changed your teaching 

techniques to adapt to the current 

situation? 

Although we are not in a classroom setting, we 

have ensured that all our students still receive 

quality training and learning. Naturally, we moved 

everything online and we have continued with 

face-to-face video meetings. While the students 

were working at their apprenticeships, I would 

visit them on site to make sure everything was 

running smoothly for them. 

As we are all working and teaching remotely, it is 

important to me that the students are still able to 

Above: Apprentices from South Devon 

College, one of the colleges CUPA supports. 

connect with one another. The 

pandemic can be isolating and I did 

not want them to feel as if they were 

having to learn alone. When we had online 

classes, it was great to see them catch up amongst 

themselves and to still develop that friendship 

despite us all being in separate locations. 

How has CUPA PIZARRAS provided support 

to your students during the pandemic? 

The students have not only had hands-on 

experience with CUPA PIZARRAS slate, but have 

also been greatly supported with online CPDs, 

YouTube videos and technical guides. CUPA 

PIZARRAS has given the students a diverse 

approach to understanding and learning the 

products and the benefits of using them. Although 

the pandemic has changed the way we learn, 

CUPA PIZARRAS has remained dedicated to the 

students’ learning. 

Contact CUPA PIZARRAS 

www.cupapizarras.com/uk/ 

@CUPAPIZARRAS_en 


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Underlays 

ROOFSHIELD EXPOSURE TESTS 

The A. Proctor Group’s technical team carried out in-house exposure tests on 

Roofshield in 2019 – purely for their own knowledge – which proved very timely and 

provided some interesting findings for projects that were left exposed during 

lockdown… 

In early 2019, the A. Proctor Group’s (APG) 

technical team began in-house testing to 

measure the effects of extended outdoor 

exposure on the performance properties of their 

popular air and vapour permeable roofing 

underlay, Roofshield. 

Their timing was impeccable. Soon after the 12- 

month test was complete, Covid-19 forced the 

closure of some building sites across the UK while 

at the same time the full effects of Brexit began to 

be felt on supply chains, particularly that of roofing 

battens and tiles. With this combination of 

scenarios beyond anyone’s control, contractors had 

no choice but to leave roofing membranes exposed 

for longer than manufacturers’ recommendations. 

The results of APG’s extended exposure testing 

could not have arrived at a better time. 

The maximum recommended exposure time for 

any construction membrane is determined by 

extensive testing by the manufacturer which looks 

at the membrane’s basic components, any 

additives, and the structure of the final product 

itself. For some of the higher regarded 

membranes, these recommendations are backed 

up by independent third-party testing like LABC 

and BBA. But, APG says, sometimes testing by 

well-known industry figures in laboratory 

conditions, however rigorous, isn’t the type of 

reassurance people are looking for. 

Never mind the chaos of a global pandemic or the 

radical shakeup of a country’s well-worn economic 

model. Everyday scenarios like delivery delays, 

scheduling mix-ups, and even inclement weather 

are what make ‘how long can a membrane be left 

exposed for?’ one of the most common questions 

that comes to APG’s technical department. 

The original purpose of APG’s in-house tests then 

Above: A. Proctor Group’s Roofshield underlay. 

was not to re-write Roofshield’s 20+ years tried 

and tested performance specification, rather, by 

simulating a normal delay to a roofing project, 

APG wanted to give contractors that extra bit of 

reassurance. 

It is important to understand here that, given the 

purpose of the experiment, the ad hoc nature of 

the test, and the small sample size, that the 

findings of the 12-month trial described here are 

anecdotal only. The results will not inform any 

future changes to Roofshield’s current installation 

guidance, performance specification, or 

accreditations by third parties. 

The test was carried out at the APG’s head office in 

Blairgowrie, Scotland, between Jan 2019 and Jan 

2020. The test consisted of sheets of Roofshield 

being mechanically fixed to an angled wooden rig to 

mimic a typical pitched roof installation. The 

angled plane of the ‘roof’ was then oriented to be 

south-facing to receive maximum UV exposure, and 

care was taken to position the rig so that any risk 

of shading was minimised. 

Over the next 13 months, samples of the exposed 

membrane were tested on a quarterly basis by 

the independent testing organisation BTTG. A 

sample of the membrane was tested at the 

beginning of the trial to set a baseline against 

which subsequent performance measurements 

could be compared. The samples were tested 

using the standard metrics for air and vapour 

permeable roofing underlays: water penetration, 

air permeability, and vapour permeability. 

The results for air and vapour permeability were 

excellent, with very little loss in performance. 

While the samples’ performance with these 

metrics did decrease gradually over time, the 

results remained within Roofshield’s published 

BBA-certified performance specification for the 

entire 12-month experiment. 

The 3, 6 and 9-month Roofshield samples all 

achieved Class W1 for water penetration. 

Considering the BBA Site Practice Bulletin Number 

2 guidance is to protect any membrane that needs 

to be left exposed for more than a few days with a 

tarpaulin, APG regards this as outstanding. 

This ensured that once the building sites were 

open and the primary water shedding layer 

installed, the roof underlay would perform its 

main function of secondary water shedding, 

vapour and air permeable. There was no need to 

strip roofs and install new underlay. 

The APG technical team wish to stress the results 

of this or any other in-house test are not a licence 

to ignore published guidance – and point out that 

in the case of Roofshield, current recommendations 

for handling, installation, storage, and maximum 

exposure times should be followed. If a delay in 

installing the primary covering – the slates, tiles – 

on your roofing project is inevitable, APG says it is 

always best practice to protect Roofshield with a 

tarpaulin as soon as possible to keep UV exposure 

to an absolute minimum. 

Contact A Proctor Group 

01250 872 261 

www.proctorgroup.com 


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Pitched Roofing 

EFFICIENCY UP BUT NOT AT EXPENSE 

OF QUALITY OR SUSTAINABILITY 

Chris Piper, Sales Director for Housing Developers at Ibstock PLC, which includes the 

Forticrete brand, provides his insight into the latest trends and developments in roofing 

technology that are supporting roofing professionals in achieving a more efficient and 

sustainable method of building. 

Whilst 2020 saw unprecedented 

disruptions to the sector, the 

environmental credentials of both new 

and existing residential properties continued to be 

a key focus, as sustainability targets outlined by 

the government’s Future Homes Standard placed 

further pressure on professionals, not only with 

regard to their methods of construction, but the 

environmental credentials of the materials used. 

Last year, contractors also worked extremely hard 

to sustain an increased rate of building in a bid to 

overcome the backlog in new developments due 

to lockdown, whilst simultaneously meeting the 

significant increase in demand caused by the 

extension of the Stamp Duty holiday and the 

confirmation of the Affordable Homes 

Programme. 

Roofing solutions that support professionals in 

achieving a faster, more efficient rate of building, 

without compromising on quality or visual appeal, 

are therefore currently the most popular type of 

materials being required and installed. 

Fewer tiles 

Products such as Forticrete’s large 

format SL8 roof tiles are leading the 

industry in fulfilling each of these 

requirements, by offering 

superior coverage benefits, as 

just eight tiles are required 

per square metre versus the 

usual 10 per square metre for 

a traditional large format roof 

tile. 

This results in a 20% reduction in the number of 

tiles handled and laid, actively supporting 

developers in increasing the efficiency, 

productivity, quality and overall sustainability of 

their builds. 

Aesthetics count 

As the importance of aesthetics also continues to 

be a key driver for Britain’s construction industry, 

roofing contractors are searching for new roofing 

materials that offer an enhanced or unique visual 

appeal, without compromising on quality, 

performance or sustainability. 

This can be achieved by installing lightweight and 

durable alternatives to natural clay and slate roof 

tiles, which proactively reduces the 

environmental impact whilst 

simultaneously improving the overall 

thermal efficiency of the property. 

By choosing concrete roof tiles 

Left: Chris Piper, Sales Director for Housing Developers 

at Ibstock PLC, which includes Forticrete. 

rather than slate or other natural 

materials, professionals can improve the 

sustainable performance of their project 

by reducing the amount of quarrier aggregate 

used. 

In response to this, Forticrete has substantially 

reduced the embodied carbon within its popular 

Gemini concrete roof tiles by using Lafarge 

Cement’s SustainaCem to provide developers 

with a more durable and environmentally friendly 

tile that delivers increased longevity and 

minimises product waste. 

Due to Gemini’s innovative ‘double cambered’ 

design, the interlocking roof tile also requires 

fewer tiles to cover the same area when 

compared to a conventional double lapped plain 

tile. This successfully aids developers in further 

reducing the environmental impact of their 

development, whilst simultaneously minimising 

overall build costs. 

Following the challenges of 2020, it has become 

more important than ever for customers to work 

in close collaboration with manufacturers to not 

only understand build schedules and align 

product supply as closely as possible, but support 

the development of roofing products that support 

professionals in achieving an increased rate of 

efficiency, without compromising on quality or 

sustainability. 

Contact Forticrete 

www.forticrete.co.uk 

@Forticrete 


From vents and outlets to edge trims and cappings... 

Areco are the UK’s leading distributor of flat roofing accessories 

With over 50 years experience of manufacturing and 

distributing renowned brands such as Glasstrim, 

Nutrim, V-Trim and Rofycom, Areco has over 40,000 

metres of roof edge trim in stock for next day delivery. 

A full range of Roof Drains, Termination Bars, Breather 

Vents and Paving Supports mean we have the right 

product for your project. 

Areco also offer a bespoke metal fabrication service 

for flashings and wall cappings. 

www.areco.co.uk 

• technical knowledge and advice 

• nationwide express delivery 

• competitive rates 

tel: 01922 743553 

t: 01922 743553 e: sales@areco.co.uk 

ARECO, Unit 2A Coppice Park, Coppice Lane, Aldridge, Walsall, West Midlands WS9 9AA

Shingles 

LOCKDOWN SHINGLES SUCCESS 

SHINES A LIGHT ON SUSTAINABILITY 

The use of shingles on roofing projects is often as much about the aesthetics as it is 

about making a roof watertight. Shaun Revill, from SR Timber, believes that the 

combination of lockdown and the sustainable roof movement means there’s never been 

a better time for shingles to become more widely adopted in the UK housing market. 

SR Timber has seen a 25% increase in 

sales of shingles in the last 12 months. It 

may not sound like much, but that’s a big 

increase on a product that usually ‘ticks along’ in 

sales terms. 

This growth has been fuelled by the rise in home 

improvement projects, and feedback from our 

merchant customers suggests that shingles have 

been predominantly used on structures such as 

summer houses and outhouses, as opposed to 

full roofs. Most notably, shingles have been used 

to replace felt roofs to enhance the aesthetics. 

It’s a small but important step in the awareness 

of shingles as a roof covering, and it goes to show 

that their use isn’t exclusively for the kinds of 

houses you see on TV shows such as Grand 

Designs. 

The aesthetics of shingles, especially as they 

weather over time, is the reason many architects 

specify them – but we’re seeing the momentum 

of sustainable roofing as another equally 

compelling reason for the wider adoption of 

shingles on more mainstream housing 

developments. 

Groundswell in the use of sustainable 

materials 

You only have to look through the pages of Total 

Contractor to see the increasing amount of 

articles referencing the sustainability of materials 

used in general UK construction – as well as 

housebuilding. 

This is being driven from government level with 

bold initiatives such as The Future Homes 

Standard – which will see changes to Part L and 

Part F of the Building Regulations for 

new dwellings. To be brought in 

by 2025, this will require newbuild 

homes to be futureproofed 

with low-carbon 

heating and world-leading 

levels of energy efficiency. 

Then there are industry initiatives such 

as ‘Wood CO2ts less’, which is the brainchild of 

a group of timber federations. It aims to create 

more sustainable buildings through methods such 

as the Chartered Institute of Building’s ‘Carbon 

Action 2050 toolkit’. The ‘Wood CO2ts less’ 

campaign’s organisers are calling on the 

construction industry to continue engaging in 

climate-friendly actions by using more wood. 

Whichever way you look at it, shingles are ticking 

all these boxes. 

Sustainability starts in the forest 

Shingles are a truly renewable product with a low 

carbon footprint according to the Cedar Shake & 

Shingle Bureau. For instance, our suppliers in the 

forests of Canada have a policy to re-plant three 

trees for every one harvested within one year and 

to the exact species ratio of the trees that were 

harvested. Our PEFC-certified shingles offer a full 

chain of custody to demonstrate complete forestto-roof 

sustainability and traceability. 

Quick facts about shingles 

• Shingles can be fixed at a roof pitch as low as 

14 degrees. 

• The life expectancy of shingles is in excess of 50 

years – when treated with Tanalith E preservative. 

Left: Shaun Revill, Trading Director at 

SR Timber. 

• Western Red Cedar 

Shingles are classified as 

‘durable’ and offer excellent 

natural insulation properties, 

with a value of K = 0.1067 

W/M. 

• Blue Label Shingles (which SR Timber 

supplies) are 100% heartwood and edge grain, so 

the grade won’t include knots or sapwood and 

can be used on all roof and vertical applications. 

• Standard shingles (random widths from 75 mm 

to 325 mm) are typically 400 mm (long) x 10 mm 

(butt) x 2 mm (tip). 

• The use of silicon bronze nails or stainless 

steel fixings is very important, as other metals 

react with the tannins in the shingles, and this 

will cause staining on the shingles. 

• Shingles are always sold by the bundle. The 

coverage of the bundle is dependent on the pitch 

of the roof, as different batten gauges are 

recommended for different pitches. For example, 

most roofs are above 22 degrees, and the 

coverage is 2.28 m² per bundle when using a 125 

mm batten gauge. 

Find out more about shingles: 

https://sr-timber.co.uk/Product/sr-timbercedar-shingles/ 

Contact SR Timber 

01623 446800 

https://sr-timber.co.uk/ 


Specialist flat roofing and waterproofing components 

CLASS 

A1 

FIRE RATED 

Non-combustible, aluminium adjustable paving support 

• Approved Document B compliant 

• No additional plastic or rubber 

components required 

• 76mm diameter head with 4 paving 

spacers; easy installation 

65-475mm 

• 112mm base with perforations for 

water drainage 

• Thread with 2 locking allowing fine 

adjustment 

• 2 tonne uniformly distributed load 

• 3 tonne concentrated load 

• All components 100% recyclable. 

InStar’s MeT-PeD is a BS13501-1 Class A1 external pedestal solution specifically 

designed for use with paving and ceramic surface finishes on external balconies. 

Can also be used on roof terraces. 

For more details please visit: www.instar-uk.co.uk 

or contact T: + 44 (0)1858 456949 E-mail: info@instar-uk.co.uk

USE 20 % RO OFLIG HTS 

Rooflights 

THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE QUIET 

REVOLUTIONS IN ROOFLIGHTING 

Total Contractor takes a look behind the scenes at NARM, the National Association of 

Rooflight Manufacturers… 

The last two decades have seen huge 

advances in the design and application of 

rooflighting, bringing important advances in 

building performance and safety. Many of these 

have been the result of intense R&D efforts by 

leading manufacturers. Behind them has been 

one supporting organisation that’s driven the 

changes in UK standards & legislation that have 

made these improvements a day-to-day reality 

across all sectors of the construction industry and 

to the wider public. 

NARM, the National Association of Rooflight 

Manufacturers, represents manufacturers and 

suppliers of all types of rooflights and has played 

a pivotal role in establishing the effects of 

rooflighting on building performance and in the 

development of rooflight standards which protect 

the market-place from potentially poorly 

performing products – as well as promoting best 

practice among specifiers and installers. 

Recognised as the UK’s leading independent and 

impartial authority on rooflighting, NARM’s 

Technical Committee comprises a team of leading 

experts, each having been selected from within 

NARM member companies, to represent the 

Association. Their work has underpinned many 

im-portant developments and continues to inform 

and support the industry. 

The sustainability revolution 

Soon after NARM’s formation in the late 1990s, 

independent research commissioned by the 

Association showed that minimal losses in 

thermal insulation brought about by the 

installation of rooflights are greatly offset by the 

energy savings resulting from reduced demand 

for electric lighting. Recognising the potential for 

lower carbon emissions resulting from reduced 

requirements for electric lighting, a NARM 

campaign was launched to bring these 

findings to a wider public, using 

the slogan: For a smaller 

carbon footprint, add more 

rooflights (see right). 

Since then, NARM has also 

been instrumental in 

collecting, analysing and 

interpreting rooflighting data upon 

which the evolving rooflighting 

requirements in The Building 

Regulations Approved 

Document L (Conservation of 

fuel & power) are based. 

Further studies commissioned 

by NARM have highlighted 

means by which solar 

overheating in buildings can 

be controlled, and the 

potential for greater energy 

savings through the 

integration of automatically 

controlled electric lighting, 

FOR A SMALLER CARBON FOOTPRINT 

THE ONLY SAFE CHOICE 

F O R 

G L A Z I N G 

O V E R H E A D 

LAMINATED 

INNER PANE 

E N D O R S E D B Y 

with natural daylighting. 

Thanks to NARM’s pioneering 

work in the field, the 

sustainability benefits of 

increased natural light 

levels are now widely 

understood and applied 

across the built environment. 

Today, NARM’s freely available online 

Technical Library 

contains a wealth of 

impartial, up-to-date 

information covering the 

subject of energy 

performance in respect of 

glass, thermoplastic and 

GRP rooflights. 

The safety revolution – 

for roof workers 

Since its inception, NARM 

has focussed considerable 

resources on improving the 


Images opposite, top to bottom: NARM provides a library of freely available technical info on its website; NARM’s ‘carbon footprint’ campaign raised awareness of the role of rooflights in building 

energy efficiency; NARM’s current campaign for the use of laminated inner panes on glass rooflights is bringing pressure on the British Standards Institute for a regulatory amendment. 

safety of roof workers. 

As we know, working on roofs is a high-risk 

activity because it involves work at height – and 

falls through fragile materials, such as aged 

rooflights and asbestos cement roofing sheets, 

have historically accounted for a high number of 

deaths and injuries. 

To address this issue, the ACR[M]001 ‘Red Book’ 

test was developed by the Advisory Committee for 

Roofwork (now Advisory Committee for 

Roofsafety), drawing on data supplied by NARM – 

an ACR member organisation. This defines a test 

for non-fragility which can be applied to any roof 

assembly, intended to indicate whether the roof 

can support the instantaneous loads imposed by 

a person falling or stumbling onto it. It is not a 

product test but products such as rooflights can 

be tested as part of a roof assembly. It sets a 

minimum standard for non-fragility and all 

professionals involved with roofing should be 

familiar with it. The Health and Safety Executive 

and many other prominent roofing trade 

associations are also member organisations of ACR. 

NARM’s on-line Technical Library contains a 

number of documents covering non-fragility in 

respect of rooflights, including a handy 

‘Quickguide’, which outlines the key points of the 

ACR[M]001 test and classifications. 

The safety revolution – for building 

occupants 

During the last year, NARM has launched a 

campaign to support the requirement for 

laminated inner panes on glass rooflights for 

important safety reasons, bringing pressure on 

the British Standards Institute for a regulatory 

amendment. 

Current British Standards still permit the use of 

toughened glass (non-laminated) for inner panes 

of glass rooflights in some instances, bringing the 

risk of shattering and falling glass into the room 

below. Using laminated glass inner panes 

significantly reduces this risk and is the reason 

behind the NARM campaign to ensure all glass 

rooflights have laminated inner panes, following a 

number of concerning incidents involving poorly 

designed or installed glass rooflights – without 

laminated inner panes. 

NARM has also published a number of technical 

documents relating to fire safety, including a new 

‘Quickguide’ entitled ‘Definition of geometric free 

area for Smoke Vents’, published in early 2021. 

Continuing progress on many fronts… 

The NARM Council, committees and working 

groups meet regularly on-line to address current 

issues and drive new initiatives. As examples, the 

“NARM has launched a 

campaign to support 

the requirement for 

laminated inner panes 

on glass rooflights” 

Association is currently consulting its 

membership regarding the CPA’s CCPI (Code for 

Construction Product Information). NARM has 

also recently published a post-Brexit Statement 

on the Construction Products Regulation, and the 

changes to Product Standards, CE marking and 

the introduction of UKCA and UKNI marking of 

products. This document, along with many others, 

is also available on the NARM website. 

NARM represents leading manufacturers and 

suppliers of all types of rooflights into the UK 

market and works closely with a number of 

organisations and other trade associations. 

NARM is a member of the RIBA CPD Providers’ 

Network; The Construction Products Association 

and Eurolux, the European trade association 

representing rooflight suppliers. 

Contact NARM 

www.narm.org.uk 

@_NARMUK 


Multiple Materials 

CHOOSING MULTI MATERIAL 

MEMBRANES FOR YOUR PROJECT 

Designing and installing roofing using multiple materials is a great business opportunity 

but it can become a risky challenge for the roofing contractor. Paul Jacobs, SIG Design & 

Technology’s Installation and Training Manager, discusses the skills required for multiple 

waterproofing projects and explains how it can provide opportunities for work. 

What is the best waterproofing system for 

my project? It’s a question we’re always 

asked at SIG Design & Technology and 

its unlikely that one product will provide all the 

answers. 

Creating the perfect roof has never been more 

challenging and product selection should follow a 

structured approach. Sourcing products that meet 

the client’s brief and the performance 

requirements of the project e.g. a waterproofing 

solution that can handle complex detailing or a 

cost-effective single ply to replicate a metal roof. 

Ideally, the roof should be designed by a single 

supplier who takes responsibility that it meets the 

statutory requirements and planning regulations. 

Finally, it should be installed to a high standard 

and the whole system covered by one single 

point guarantee. 

Imperial Court 

AJ Lucas, one of our Design & 

Technology Accredited Contractors 

(DATAC) has recently finished a newbuild 

of luxury apartments on Streatham 

High Street, London. Comprising of four different 

waterproofing areas, Imperial Court exemplifies 

how correct specification and contractor 

experience in multiple materials met the 

requirements on this project. 

Main roof: the large, warm roof design is enclosed 

by upstands on all sides and supports an array of 

free-standing solar panels. With limited detailing, a 

single ply membrane provided a cost-effective 

solution that was quick to install and can support 

foot traffic during maintenance and inspections. 

The PVC membrane is suited to a fully 

bonded approach and was installed 

on a plywood substrate. 

Balconies: each apartment has 

been designed with an enclosed, 

private balcony. Although single ply 

membranes are suitable for these areas, 

detailing and manoeuvrability in such a small 

space can be difficult. As an alternative, AJ Lucas 

used a cold-applied liquid membrane which is 

fast-curing and with virtually no fumes was much 

easier to work with in the confined space. A more 

robust felt system which offers excellent strength 

and tear resistance was selected to waterproof 

the four ground floor balcony areas. 

Communal courtyard: providing a play area and 

seating for residents, the communal 

courtyard is a concrete structure 

designed with zero falls. The 

waterproofing layer is overlaid with 

pedestals and paving slabs making 

access for maintenance difficult. 

Whilst single ply can be used in this 

situation, special attention would be 

needed to protect the membrane during and after 

installation, making its use more complicated. For 

this area, AJ Lucas used a hot melt membrane 

which has self-healing properties and has been 

designed to last the lifetime of the project. 

Working profitably on multi material 

projects 

Be clear on what is being asked of you and make 

sure you get the pricing right from the start. Ask 

questions if the drawings aren’t clear and make 

sure your quote doesn’t miss out whole roof areas. 

Sometimes areas on a project can be 

split over multiple drawings. Try 

going back to the drawing board 

and colouring up a roof plan as you 

price, it’s effective and it works. 

Make sure you are 100% certain as to 

where your elements stop and start. It’s 

sensible to either ask the question or put a 

qualification in your tender. Find out if you can 

start and stop at sensible break points and how 

many visits are needed. And discuss sequencing 

plus area release schedules, even on simple 

projects. 

Getting advice 

We supply a wide range of products and systems 

from various manufacturers and we’re ideally 

placed to offer contractors advice on our systems. 

At Imperial Court we worked with AJ Lucas to select 

the most suitable membrane for each area, plan 

the schedule of works and time deliveries as 

required. SIG also designed and supplied a tapered 

insulation scheme for each area of the project 

working to U-values supplied by the architect. 

Of course, successful installations don’t happen 

by chance and DATAC contractors receive training 

in the products they work with. Our courses teach 

them not only the skills needed to install the 

waterproofing elements correctly, but also to 

understand the whole system, including how 

different materials interface with other building 

elements. 

Contact SIG Design & Technology 

www.sigdandt.co.uk 

@SIGDesignTech 


Advertorial: Britmet 

BRITMET LITESLATE: A TRULY 

BRITISH SUCCESS STORY 

Britmet started its journey into the 

composite slate tile market in 2017 in a 

bid to create an authentic, sustainable, 

lightweight slate. 

After research began, Britmet originally specified 

a synthetic tile to be manufactured in China to 

research and test UK product demand. In a very 

short space of time, the market demand was 

confirmed but due to quality control issues, a 

decision was made to bring the manufacturing 

process over to the UK. 

In 2018, the lengthy research 

and design process began. 

Britmet used real Welsh 

slate in order to perfect 

the aesthetics and 

performance qualities of 

the LiteSlate. By January 

2019, the development of the 

first mould for the LiteSlate had 

begun and the machine was delivered 

and set up in the UK production plant. 

Britmet accomplished its goal of perfecting the 

natural slate surface by May 2019, ready for the 

product launch at the FIT Show at the NEC. Due 

to a long list of leads, full production of the UK 

LiteSlate quickly followed with stock retention 

plans in place. In summer 2019, the LiteSlate 

passed its fire testing with a BS476-3 Fire Rating 

and new mould designs were developed. 

Increasing customer demand for the composite 

slate caused production to double less than a 

year after the product launch, and by the end of 

July 2020, production tripled to produce multiple 

riven edges, offering more of a natural slate effect 

finish. There are now seven production lines 

manufacturing the Liteslate, ensuring that 14 

slates are made every 45 seconds to meet 

customer demand. These are stocked in Britmet’s 

70,000ft² premises in the West Midlands, as well 

Images show Britmet LiteSlate with its multiple riven edges which give a natural slate-effect finish. 

as through Britmet’s 100 

nationwide stockists – and 

the list of stockists is growing 

on a weekly basis. 

Furthermore, Britmet says the LiteSlate is 

designed with the environment in mind. Over 

90% of the Polymers that LiteSlate is made from 

are recycled. In 2021, Britmet says it will recycle 

over three million kilograms of polypropylene 

during the manufacturing process. 

The LiteSlate tile range has also been expanded 

to seven different colours – the largest standard 

colour range on the UK synthetic slate tile market! 

Despite having all the characteristics you can 

expect from a traditional slate, the LiteSlate won’t 

break, chip or delaminate thanks to a 

sophisticated, ground-breaking design. At only 

12kg per sqm, the LiteSlate is incredibly 

lightweight with low-pitch capabilities down to 14 

degrees. As the Liteslate is compression moulded, 

it has detailed impressions displaying where to fix 

the slate, making it even easier for installation 

(including DIY). It is also easy to cut as you only 

require a sharp, fine-tooth saw or sharp blade. 

“The LiteSlate tile 

range has been 

expanded to seven 

different colours” 

Britmet’s Liteslate is decorated with many 

accreditations and certifications, including a 

BS476-3 Fire Rating and a 40-year weather 

penetration guarantee. Overall, LiteSlate is a high 

performance, synthetic slate tile that makes a 

superb modern-day alternative to traditional slate 

roofing for all projects. 

Contact Britmet 

www.britmet.co.uk 

@Britmet 


sales@britmet.co.uk | 01295 250998 | www.britmet.co.uk | #TheBritmethod 

Low-Pitch 

Lightweight 

Sustainable 

Liteslate 

designed with the environment in mind 

Lightweight Composite Slate | Lightweight Granulated Tile Panels | Lightweight Tile Effect Sheets | Flat-to-Pitch Roof Systems 

Structural Liner Trays | Door Canopies | Decorative Exterior Paint 

RAISING THE STANDARDS IN LIGHTWEIGHT ROOFING

EPDM Focus 

RUBBER STAMPED: A BUSY AND 

BRIGHT FUTURE FOR EPDM... 

Durable, cost-effective and easy-to-install, it is no surprise that an increasing number of 

roofers are turning to EPDM as a solution for flat roofs. Below, George King, Divisional 

Managing Director at SIG Roofing, takes a closer look at the benefits of EPDM – and 

considers how its popularity could be set to grow and grow. 

An established roofing membrane solution 

in large-scale commercial applications for 

some time, Ethylene Propylene Diene 

Monomer (EPDM) is fast becoming recognised as 

an attractive option for domestic properties, too. 

Indeed, while flat roofs used to be the sole 

preserve of garage conversions and single storey 

extensions, they are an increasingly popular 

choice for new build domestic properties – and 

that’s a trend we expect to grow further still 

across the next few years. 

The reasons behind EPDM’s surging popularity 

are clear. Cost-effective and durable, EPDM 

delivers a fantastic return on investment for a 

property, with some systems accredited by the 

BBA and affording an expected lifespan of 35 

years. This means EPDM can be specified and 

installed with utmost confidence – giving 

homeowners total peace of mind. 

Beyond durability, EPDM has been especially 

designed to deliver ultimate flexibility. This is an 

important consideration as it means it can bend 

with normal levels of structural movement; 

something that can lead to breakages or tears in 

other systems. What’s more, the UV stability of 

EPDM means it maintains flexibility for longer – 

even when other systems have aged and become 

brittle. 

Correct installation 

As more and more homeowners switch-on to the 

benefits of EPDM, this undoubtedly creates 

exciting new market opportunities for roofing 

contractors. But for those benefits to be fully 

realised, it’s absolutely essential to ensure that 

the EPDM is installed correctly. 

“As more and 

more 

homeowners 

switch-on to the 

benefits of EPDM, this 

undoubtedly creates 

exciting new market 

opportunities for 

roofing contractors” 

That’s why SIG Roofing has created a series of 

‘how-to’ video guides for our EPDM range; arming 

contractors with all of the information they need 

to ensure the solution is correctly installed. The 

comprehensive guides can be found at 

www.fix-r.co.uk, and provide step-by-step 

support in installing EPDM; from the laying of the 

initial membrane to using the correct perimeter 

trims and kerb systems. 

Alongside this, we have made prolonged 

investment into our own EPDM market offering – 

FIX-R EPDM and FIX-R Reinforced Single Ply. Our 

FIX-R EPDM roofing membranes, which both have 

BBA Approval, are flexible, aesthetically pleasing 

and manufactured to last – and can be installed 

with confidence for 35 years. Requiring no heat or 

Left: George King, SIG Roofing; Above, left: 

FIX-R EPDM & FIX-R Single Ply; Installation. 

flames during installation, FIX-R 

EPDM significantly reduces risk to 

contractors while driving down on-site 

insurance premiums. 

Our Reinforced Single Ply is also quick and easy 

to install, reducing associated installation costs 

across the project. Furthermore, the product is 

supplied in roll form, making it the ideal solution 

for larger scale or commercial projects, while 

FIX-R EPDM, which can be cut to size for a 

single-sheet application, is ideal for smaller 

roofing jobs. 

As with the material itself, the popularity of EPDM 

looks set to last. As the country gears up for a 

post-lockdown boom in new-build housing – as 

outlined in the Prime Minister’s ‘build, build, 

build’ address last year – demand for EPDM 

looks set to go through the (flat) roof. With our 

robust range and step-by-step installation 

guides, we are seeking to arm contractors with all 

the tools they need to take advantage of these 

upcoming opportunities. 

Contact SIG Roofing 

www.sigroofing.co.uk 

@SIGRoofing 


We are 

HIRING 

Alincourt 

ROOFING 

Due to our continuing expansion programme, we are now looking for another member 

of staff to join our busy office as an assistant contracts manager. 

This is an exciting role which would suit someone who already has previous knowledge of 

roofing and maybe looking for a change. 

We can offer our full support and on going training to unlock your potential to grow and 

develop within our company. 

Must have a full clean driving licence and CSCS card. 

Ideally in East or West Sussex, Surrey area due to the locations of our ongoing contracts. 

If this is of interest please send an email: office@alincourt.com 

For furt 

ther inf 

ormation 

or a hire quotation call 

Email: sales@co 

oker 

erhire.com 

www.cooke 

erhire.com 


EPDM & Modular Construction 

CIRCULAR ECONOMY: CHOOSING 

THE RIGHT ROOFING MATERIALS 

From electronic goods to clothing, the circular economy concept of reduce, re-use and 

recycle has been successfully applied across a multitude of industries – but to a lesser 

extent for construction and building components. Adrian Buttress, Managing Director at 

Permaroof, explains why he feels EPDM rubber roofing can contribute to circular 

construction through modular building. 

Circular economy is gaining more attention, 

particularly because it brings a potential 

solution to the tension between the 

growing demand and the limited supply of 

materials. 

The climate change emergency is the biggest 

challenge facing our planet, and it is no secret 

that the construction industry consumes a 

significant number of global resources and 

generates a vast amount of rubbish. 

In fact, the sector is the largest consumer of 

natural resources and the biggest contributor of 

waste. However, it can counteract this – and 

improve its reputation – by supporting the shift 

towards a circular economy through the use of 

more reusable and recyclable building stock. 

When we usually talk about the circular economy, 

we think of consumer goods with a relatively 

short life. However, the principles can be applied 

to the construction industry, where the product is 

the building itself. 

Modular construction – which involves creating 

property components in a factory environment 

and then transporting the modules to 

site to be assembled – perfectly 

fits the ideology of circular 

economy. It can also 

potentially be a key driver in 

carbon footprint reduction in the built 

environment industry and improve its 

sustainability credentials. 

And this idea is becoming increasingly prevalent. 

Last year, the UK unveiled its Circular Economy 

Package, which committed to a 65% municipal 

recycling rate by 2035, and in tenders, subcontractors 

are being asked to demonstrate their 

commitment to waste reduction. 

Creating sustainable cities 

Due to its resource and waste 

reduction, reusability, 

Left: Adrian Buttress, MD Permaroof. 

Continued on page 42

THE TRIED 

AND 

TESTED 

GRP FLA 

T 

RO 

OOFIN 

NG SYS 

S 

TEM 

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EPDM & Modular Construction 

Article 

Continued from page 40 

adaptability, and recyclability of all components, 

modular construction offers a multitude of 

environmental advantages. It is also 

demonstrated that prefabricated buildings are key 

to material savings, waste reduction, re-use of 

components, and various other forms of 

optimisation for the construction sector. 

Modular builds are a new breed of structures that 

will be the cornerstone of modern, sustainable 

cities due to their ability to be modified, 

deconstructed, and relocated – re-using their 

parts almost like LEGO blocks. 

Factory fabrication offers a very attractive option 

for projects where timescales are tight, or site 

and weather conditions are challenging. However, 

it is important the right materials are specified to 

offer improved building quality and long-term 

performance. 

Choosing the right materials 

In recent years, we have seen a surge in demand 

for modular construction – not just for residential 

properties, but also for public buildings such as 

schools and hospitals, as well as commercial 

properties like hotels and shopping centres. 

One of the key strengths of modular builds is the 

speed of construction and arrival on site, which is 

where EPDM membranes truly shine as they can 

be fully adhered or mechanically fixed to the roof 

deck offsite. 

Requiring no torch or hot works of any kind during 

installation, their cold-applied systems are very 

useful within the factory environment – as 

opposed to pitch roofs, which need to be installed 

once the modular is in place, requiring additional 

days and leaving the module temporarily open to 

the elements. 

On any site, once the EPDM roofing membrane 

covers the deck, the roof is completely watertight. 

As much detailing as possible is also carried out 

in factory conditions. This minimises the 

substrate’s exposure to dust, pollution, and 

moisture – significantly reducing the risks 

associated with external conditions. 

EPDM membranes are strong 

and flexible, with 

excellent puncture 

resistance, 

ensuring a 

resilient solution 

within a busy 

factory 

environment. 

Water-based 

adhesives have also 

been developed to 

ensure the factory 

installation process is safe and 

virtually odourless, addressing the 

management of volatile organic compounds 

(VOCs) and solvents in a factory environment. 

“While modular 

construction may not 

always be the right 

choice for every 

project, it is 

increasingly being 

considered as an 

alternative” 

More importantly, EPDM membranes are 

completely aligned with modular building 

concepts, allowing not only design flexibility but 

also the possibility to adapt to future changes, 

dismantle, re-use or relocate the building – even 

decades after its initial construction. 

If the building must be modified or relocated after a 

long time, detailing and sealing the bay-to-bay joins 

can be easily done, giving life once again to an old 

material but performing like a new membrane. The 

customer has the freedom to relocate and adapt the 

building modules after construction – truly 

contributing to circular economy. 

Another consideration when creating modular 

buildings is creating the structure using steel. Steelframed 

buildings are fast, cost-efficient methods of 

construction and have taken the market by storm in 

recent years. 

Contact Permaroof 

01773 608839 

www.permaroof.co.uk 

@PermaroofUK 

The buildings are 

manufactured to last 

utilising galvanised 

steel, which is 

one of the 

strongest 

materials 

used in the 

industry – with 

the added 

bonus of not 

burning in a fire or 

rotting and allowing 

moisture to sink through. 

As well as their strength, durability and how 

quickly they can be constructed, some steelframed 

buildings on the market are made from 

60% recycled materials and fully recyclable when 

they come to the end of their life, again, fitting 

with the ideology of the circular economy. 

Conclusion 

While modular construction may not always be 

the right choice for every project, it is increasingly 

being considered as a potentially advantageous 

alternative to conventional building 

methodologies, meeting market demands as well 

as the challenges posed by sustainable building 

practices. 

And as the largest contributor of waste, 

construction is a key industry in moving towards 

a more sustainable model of re-use, recycling 

and zero waste. 

This is why it is so important that building 

product manufacturers work together with the 

modular sector to ensure the buildability and 

performance profiles of their products meet the 

requirements of modular buildings, bringing more 

flexibility to this growing trend and supporting 

circular construction practices. 


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Roofing Updates 

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

MARKET INSIGHTS DRIVE KLOBER 

Based on recent customer insights and home 

improvement trends, Klober has revealed a 

number of range extensions to offer its 

distributors and contractors more choice, with 

more developments to follow later this year. 

fluctuations and weather 

conditions continue to 

compromise traditional sand and 

cement mortar methods to fix 

ridge and hip tiles, sales of dry 

support tray, and roll out rafter 

tray must work together. This new 

option offers an economic 

solution by providing all the 

necessary components required 

ridge systems continue to soar. 

in one pack. 

Distributors and contractors can now benefit from 

As such, Klober has extended its 

the new range extensions which include Klober’s 

Pauline Manley, Marketing 

portfolio with the addition of its 

new Secret Gutter, a 6m Dry Ridge Kit (pictured), 

Director at Klober, said: 

6m Dry Ridge Kit, well-suited to 

and an updated 3-in-1 Eaves Ventilation Pack. 

“Customer insights are really important to us and 

clay and concrete applications, which comes in 

With the race for space being a number one home 

every year we make sure we’re investing in the 

black and is perforated for ventilation. This is an 

improvement trend for 2021, Klober anticipates an 

solutions that are going to make their lives easier. 

entry level product to sit alongside Klober’s 

increase in demand for suitable roofing products. 

It’s especially important to us that we are offering 

premium roll fix brand. 

Klober’s new GRP Secret Gutter joins the existing 

our customers choice to suit their exact 

PVC version, and is well-suited for dormer 

conversions due to its ability to provide a 

secondary line of defence against wind driven rain 

at wall abutments. It is a high-performance 

continuous abutment soaker typically used with 

flat interlocking tiles. Also, as temperature 

Finally, in response to demand for more solutions 

that are quick and easy to install, Klober has 

expanded its eaves ventilation offering by offering 

more sizes of its 3-in-1 Eaves Vent Pack. 

According to Klober’s technical team, for eaves 

ventilation to be effective, the fascia vent, felt 

specifications. All three of these latest range 

extensions answer a specific customer challenge 

or industry trend. And it doesn’t end there as we 

have more to come later in the year so watch this 

space!” 

www.klober.co.uk 

TOP PROJECT FOR GREENOUGH 

Greenough & Sons Roofing Contractors has been appointed to deliver a £1.5m contract to reroof 

part of Manchester Town Hall by lead contractor LendLease, following a competitive tender. 

The win represents the largest single project in the Anglesey, North Wales-based family owned 

business’s fifty year history, and will be delivered as part of the far-reaching restoration of the historic 

Grade One listed building. The ‘Phase One’ roofing contract will include removing and replacing 2,800m² 

of Cumbrian roof slate, as well as updating the roof timbers, replacing 65 tonnes of leadwork and 

refurbishing glazed skylights. The slate will be sourced from the same Burlington slate quarry that was used in the original build some 150 years ago, 

while the old lead work will be melted down and reincorporated into the building restoration. 

The company aims to start site work on the 62 week programme in Autumn 2021, and will also explore and deliver ways to share its unique roofing skills 

with the local community and heritage enthusiasts. The project is yet further recognition of the business’s reputation for delivering historically sensitive 

heritage roofing projects across Wales and the North West of England. This includes a major contribution to the restoration of Chester Town Hall 

(completed in 2011), which like Manchester Town Hall is built in the celebrated Gothic Revival style. 

The company also recently completed a large heritage roofing contract on the National Library of Wales in Aberystwyth. Greenough & Sons Director 

Jonathan Greenough said: “This is tremendous win for the company in what is a special year as we mark our 50th year as a company. Our growing 

success in the heritage market has, over the years, been inextricably linked to our unique knowledge and skill with Welsh Slate. But a contract of this 

size, complexity and character demonstrates how we have evolved as a business. 

He continued: “The contract is also a further tribute to David Greenough, my father and company founder, who sadly passed away in May 2020 aged 78. 

It’s very fitting that the company’s highest profile project to date should be so close to his childhood home in Swinton, Salford.” 

www.greenoughroofing.com 


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

Roofing Updates 

An extensive portfolio of professional sealants 

and adhesives, the Trade Mate range was 

created to provide a go-to solution to tackle 

every challenge a tradesperson might 

encounter on site, including a number of 

products for roofing applications. 

A mainstay of Geocel’s product line up for more 

than two decades, Geocel says the primary aim 

of the comprehensive Trade Mate range is to 

offer easier product selection for users. Each of 

the 23 products have been specifically 

formulated to provide a sealant or adhesive that 


TRADE MATE RANGE REVAMPED 

enables the best possible finish, every time. 

With its new premium packaging, each product’s 

intended application has been accentuated to 

make it even easier to quickly identify on shelf 

the ideal solution for the required job. 

The range includes sealants specifically for 

roofing applications, such as the Lead and Gutter 

Seal, Roofers Seal and All Weather Seal. 

On the relaunch, Andy Cummins, Senior Product 

Manager at Geocel, commented: “By refreshing 

SIKABIT MEETS SHOOL REQUIREMENTS 

LOREM roofers IPSUM to find DOLOR sealants and SIT adhesives AMET, 

specifically formulated for the required 

CONSECTETUR ADIPISCING ELIT 

SED DO EIUSMOD TEMPOR 

our range of high-quality products they can now www.geocel.co.uk 

be quickly identified on shelf, making it easier for 

application – to ensure they always get the very 

best results.” 

The roof refurbishment of Portland School, Birkenhead was completed to the highest standards of safety 

and without disruption to school activities, thanks to the combined efforts of Holloway Cook Associates 

and Sika’s specialist Roof Refurbishment team. 

The main school building has had many additions over time, resulting in 24 roof areas at varying levels and with 

various roof build-ups. The whole of this 1600m² roof was in need of refurbishment as part of a programme of maintenance and upgrades following the 

school’s transition to academy status. The Co-op Academy Trust developed a specification requirement for the project which included the use of a bituminous 

system with an extended service life. The SikaBit 25-year system was selected from Sika’s wide portfolio of roofing systems as an ideal solution for this 

application. Safety precautions were paramount due to the live school environment. Working with a roofing provider that could offer a Safe2Torch system with 

self-adhesive membranes for torch-free zones was imperative. Sika’s Roof Refurbishment team was able to do a full site survey and provide a Safe2Torch 

plan for the installation. Roofing contractor Holloway Cook Associates took on the role of principal contractor, including design, health and safety and 

installation within a turnkey package. The quality and durability of the finish was also a key requirement of the project. The SikaBit system, combined with the 

skills and experience of the team at Holloway Cook, answered this need with neat detailing across all roof areas. www.sika.co.uk/roofing 

RAINCLEAR’S NEW ADJUSTABLE OFFSET 

Rainclear Systems has introduced a new 2-part, adjustable offset to the Infinity Galvanised Steel and Colour 

Coated Galvanised Steel range, which is available to buy online at www.rainclear.co.uk. 

Danny Norris, Sales and Customer Services Executive at Rainclear Systems, explained: “Until now, the only way 

to create an offset in the Galv Steel and Colour Coated Galv Steel downpipes was: 1. Using the 60mm fixed offset 

Rainclear has added a new adjustable offset 

(for example: GST80OS60) for up to a 60mm projection; 2. Using 2no. 70 Degree Bends together for up to a 210- 

to its Galvanised Steel Range. 

255mm projection depending on the diameter of the pipe (and a 240mm drop); 3. Using 2no. 70 Degree Bends 

along with a cut down length of pipe in between – with some of the 3mtre length of downpipe going to waste if it couldn’t be put to use elsewhere. 

“Rainclear have worked with the manufacturers to create a 2-part, adjustable Offset – in Galvanised Steel and currently in 4 of the 7 Robust Coated 

Galvanised steel colours we stock, in the 80mm and 100mm diameter pipes – to add a solution for offsets of up to 700m. With this new 4th option there 

is no need to cut into a full 3mtre pipe length.” 

Find out more at: www.rainclear.co.uk 


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Cover Story: A. Proctor Group 

CLT SOLUTIONS FROM A. PROCTOR 

The experts at A. Proctor Group discuss the issues around moisture management when 

utilising Cross Laminated Timber construction. 

CLT (Cross Laminated Timber) is growing in 

popularity and can offer many advantages 

as a sustainable energy efficient building 

method. It has been used in many construction 

projects, predominantly within the commercial 

sector such as schools and hospitals. 

CLT is an engineered timber product produced in 

a controlled factory environment from sustainably 

sourced timber. It is formed of kiln-dried spruce 

or pine boards which are laid on top of 

each other at 90° – three, five, 

seven or nine layers 

depending on structural 

requirements – and 

then coated with a 

layer of adhesive and 

subjected to 

immense hydraulic pressure to 

create large, stiff, dimensionally 

stable panels. Often referred to as 

‘Super Plywood’, CLT offers high 

strength and the structural simplicity 

needed for cost-effective buildings, 

as well as a lighter environmental 

footprint than concrete or steel. It 

also provides numerous other 

benefits, including quicker 

installation, reduced 

waste, improved 

thermal 

Above: Fig. 1: External walls 

(warm wall construction – 

breathable insulation) 

Service Class 1 for both sides 

of the CLT. 

1. Cladding spaced off the 

insulation; 2. Drained and 

ventilated cavity; 

3. Reflectashield TF 0.81; 

4. Breathable thermal 

insulation; 5. Wraptite; 6. CLT; 

7. Procheck Adapt (if required 

ponding hygrothermal checks); 

8. Optional drylining and 

battened service zone. 

performance and design versatility. 

The STA have recognised this and 

produced a comprehensive 

document in March 2017 - The STA 

Advice Note 14, Robustness of CLT 

structures. This document provides 

good practice guidance for the 

design, detailing and installation of 

CLT building structures. A critical 

element to their successful use is to 

ensure good moisture management, 

as whilst the system is robust, poor 

installation can let the design down. 

Fig. 1(Above produced by STA) 

shows how a CLT structure is built 

up with the correct installation of

insulation on the outside of the frame. The CLT 

should always be on the warm side of the 

insulation to avoid unnecessary moisture 

fluctuations which also brings the added benefit 

of mitigating any potential cold bridging issues, 

as they are adequately catered for with the 

external envelope of continuous insulation. It is 

preferable for this insulation to be moisture open 

to allow the wall to breathe and reduce the risk of 

built-up moisture within the envelope. The cavity 

provides extra protection throughout the life of the 

building. The STA produced further guidance in 

January this year (Laminate/Mass timber 

structures- Durability by Design Technical Note 

23). This note concludes with some best practice 

advice which includes the following: 

• Ensure the external wall make up allows for 

vapour diffusion from the interior to exterior 

vented spaces (BS 5250 Standard to be 

referenced and followed in a design) 

• Air leakage control membranes and sealants 

checked to avoid moisture vapour traps 

• Thermal Insulation should be placed on the 

exterior side of the laminated mass timber 

panels. 

BS 5250 gives good guidance in the moisture 

management of CLT structures. This advice 

incorporates many of the above principles and 

the placement of membranes to reduce the risk of 

damaging moisture issues. 

The A. Proctor Group provides a self-adhered, 

vapour permeable, air tight “breather membrane” 

that can be installed either behind or in front of 

the insulation. This decision can be made 

dependent upon the project location and works 

programme for follow-on trades. In some 

circumstances it may be appropriate to utilise the 

membrane in both locations. Once Wraptite is 

applied to the CLT on the outside, the envelope is 

immediately protected from water ingress such 

as rain during the construction, which may be 

beneficial if the insulation is not to be installed 

immediately. The unique properties of Wraptite 

also provide the airtight line on the external side 

of the CLT panels offering long-term protection 

and less risk of damages to the airtight layer from 

internal finishes. The high vapour permeability of 

the Wraptite provides the “breathing wall” which 

will help reduce any potential moisture build up 

that may have happened during the build process 

and wet trades. 

As Wraptite is vapour permeable, it is moisture 

neutral and protects the building from unwanted 

moisture build up once it is occupied – such as 

heating/everyday occupier activities. Its 

characteristics therefore keep the envelope free 

from the risks of interstitial condensation. 

Once the insulation is installed, depending on its 

type , it may be advisable to install a second 

layer this time on the cold face (outside) of the 

insulation, to avoid moisture pick up through the 

insulation and potential loss of thermal 

performance. This can include the use of a 

reflective material to further enhance the thermal 

performance of the structure, this time with APG 

vapour permeable Reflectashield TF 0.81. 

For any moisture concerns or questions, The A. 

Proctor Group has years of experience in across 

all areas of the building envelope, such as 

pitched roofs, walls and floors. Our team of 

technical experts at Head Office and external 

Regional Technical Sales Managers are all very 

well educated in the company’s HAMM (Heat Air 

Moisture Movement) principles to ensure an 

effective balance is reached, ensuring a healthy 

building envelope. 

Visit A. Proctor Group’s website where you can 

find details on all APG solutions along with links 

to our informative range of webinars. 

Contact The A. Proctor Group 

01250 872 261 

www.proctorgroup.com 


Fixings & Projects 

CLADMASTER 2: FIXING SYSTEMS 

In the second instalment of its CladMaster series of videos, Vivalda focuses on fixings and 

Andy Thomas, Vivalda London’s Branch Manager, addresses the common mistakes made 

when ordering fixings for cladding projects. 

Vivalda Group, the UK’s largest independent 

supplier of non-flammable cladding, has 

unveiled the second video in its ‘CladMaster’ 

series designed to improve installers’ practical 

understanding of cladding materials, fixing 

systems and fire safety challenges. 

The second video, entitled ‘Three things to get right 

when specifying a fixing system’, looks at common 

mistakes made by installers when ordering fixings 

for cladding projects. Vivalda London’s Branch 

Manager Andy Thomas, who is featured in the 

video, said: “We often find that it’s the simplest of 

oversights that can cause the biggest headaches 

for installers. Three of the most common slip-ups 

we see are; contractors failing to 

order cladding and fixings at the 

same time; ordering cheaper, 

non-approved fixings and failing 

to invest in the right tools to ensure 

the fixings are properly installed. 

“In our experience, getting these very simple 

things right from the start of a project can save 

huge amounts of time, money and risk. Poor 

specification of fixings can even invalidate 

warranties on the cladding installed. The Grenfell 

tragedy should serve as a constant reminder how 

materials must conform. Guesswork can be fatal. 

Andy Thomas, Branch Manager, 

Vivalda London. 

“In the bigger scheme of things, 

it’s easy to see how fixings 

sometimes get overlooked, but in 

practice they are a vital element of 

the cladding system that accounts for a 

large part of the budget. It’s just not worth trying 

to cut corners where fixings are concerned and 

we would encourage contractors to spend more 

time ensuring that they have the right fixings and 

tools specified for the job.” 

View the video on www.roof-tube.co.uk 

www.vivalda.co.uk 

CLASSIC COPPER WRAP 

Anew Pre-Prep school in Oxford has 

become the latest educational facility to 

feature innovative copper rainscreen 

cladding panels from Proteus Facades. 

Combining tradition with modernity, Proteus HR 

TECU Classic Copper panels clad the entire exterior 

façade of a new extension on Newton Lodge, a 

historic building at Summer Fields Preparatory 

Boarding and Day School in Summertown. 

Newton Lodge is one of the oldest structures on 

the 70-acre school site and was previously used 

as a boarding house for pupils. The addition of 

the new extension, alongside a complete 

redevelopment inside and out, has transformed 

the Lodge into the state-of-the-art ‘Summer 

Fields Pre-Prep School’ for children aged four to 

seven. 

Proteus HR TECU Classic, a bright, shimmering, 

multi-tonal ochre-red copper cladding that will 

gradually fade over time to Verdigris green, was 

installed by J & PW Developments. The copper 

cladding wraps around the entire external façade 

of the extension, developed by main contractor 

Edgar Taylor. 

Designer Oxford Architects specified the copper 

rainscreen cladding – including pre-formed 

corner panels, window reveals, heads, sills and 

rooflines – to create a clean modern look. It is 

envisaged that this innovative approach will both 

contrast and complement the historical character 

of the original Victorian-built Newton Lodge and 

other buildings dotted throughout the school 

grounds. 

Proteus HR is an integrated modular rainscreen 

panel system featuring an aluminium honeycomb 

core, structurally bonded between two thin 

gauges of lightweight metal skin. This creates a 

lightweight, strong and versatile cladding system, 

whilst the sheer, smooth aesthetic of the optically 

Newton Lodge: Proteus Facades fabricated the entire copper 

façade at its advanced manufacturing facility in Lancashire. 

flat panels achieves pure architectural sightlines. 

The honeycomb core also helps optimise the 

gauge of copper skin, contributing to budget 

expectations, and creating a rigid, slimline 

cladding panel. 

Inclusion of the Proteus HR slimline panels at 

Summer Fields contributed to overall energy 

efficiency by allowing incorporation of high levels 

of insulation within the underlying structure, 

whilst still maintaining the rear ventilated cavity. 

The copper cladding also provides Summer Fields 

with outstanding mechanical abrasion and 

weather and corrosion resistance properties as 

well as being maintenance free. 

www.proteusfacades.com 


WHAT 

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YOUR 

HOME 

SAY 

ABOUT 

YOU? 

SAY IT WITH 

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www.cedral.world 

SAY IT WITH 

SUSTAINABILITY

Project Focus 

A CLASS ACT CLADDING PROJECT 

Total Contractor takes a look at the recent Ilkley Grammar School project which utilised 

systems from Shackerley to help extend and enhance its facilities. 

Ilkley Grammar School in Bradford, a high 

school for students aged 11-18, is part of the 

Moorlands Learning Trust. Set in beautiful 

surroundings on the edge of Ilkley Moor, the 

school has a traditional 19th century main 

building, along with a host of enviable facilities, 

including tennis courts, a drama studio and an 

indoor swimming pool. 

Bradford Council has invested in extending 

capacity and enhancing facilities still further with 

the construction of a new teaching block, 

designed by Langtry Langton Architects. This 

three-storey building comprises 15 English and 

humanities classrooms, a new dining 

hall, offices and toilets. 

Part of the design brief required 

a building sympathetic to the 

local built environment in 

Ilkley, which is characterised 

by dark grey slate and creamcoloured 

Yorkshire sandstone. 

Shackerley’s SureClad Ceramic Granite 

ventilated façade system in a natural creamybeige 

honed LOPAR colourway and contrasting 

Rio Black enabled the architectural team to 

deliver a natural aesthetic in-keeping with the 

local built environment, while offering 

reduced structural loadings, cost 

advantages and long-term 

maintenance benefits. 

SureClad Ceramic Granite 

The new, stand-alone teaching 

block is part of a wider build 

programme at Ilkley Grammar 

School to enable clusters of classrooms 

by academic subject. 

Tony Hubbard, from Langtry Langton Architects, 

explained: “The challenge for the project was to 

deliver the range, scale and layout 

of facilities required to increase 

the school’s student intake, 

while providing a new building 

that is both practical and 

appropriate for the campus in 

terms of materials, height and 

style. 

“Using local stone would have been the obvious 

choice for the façade, but this not only had 

implications for the cost of the stone but also for 

the cost of the wider build, because of the 

structural loading, lead times and build times 

involved. We had never used 

Shackerley’s SureClad Ceramic 

Granite façade system before, 

but it offered us an excellent 

match for the aesthetic we 

were trying to achieve, along 

with significant cost savings on 

the building structure and 

buildability benefits.” 

Low maintenance façade 

Shackerley’s SureClad Ceramic Granite also 

offers a low maintenance solution that retains its 

high-quality appearance over time – even when 

specified in pale colourways – thanks 

to the impervious nature of the 

material. Resistant to 

discolouration due to U/V or 

pollution, Shackerley’s 

SureClad Ceramic Granite will 

not be damaged by the effects 

of freeze/thaw conditions and is 

resistant to abrasion, graffiti and 

algae growth. It is also certified as an A1 noncombustible 

material to BS EN 13501-1. 

To create contrast with the pale-coloured LOPAR 

SureClad Ceramic Granite panels, Langtry 

Images show Shackerley’s SureClad 

Ceramic Granite ventilated façade 

system which was used at Ilkley 

Grammar School. 

Langton Architects also 

specified the Shackerley 

SureClad system in Rio Black. 

This colourway has been used to 

create horizontal details at the top and 

bottom of each elevation and for the window 

reveals and soffits. 

Tony Hubbard continued: “The Shackerley team 

was very helpful and provided fully-mounted 

samples to aid our product selection process. 

Being able to specify both façade materials from 

the same supplier and inspect the samples made 

specification much easier.” 

Ease of installation 

The SureClad system was pre-fabricated as 

installation-ready panels at Shackerley’s ISO 

9001 accredited factory in Lancashire. Each fullytraceable 

consignment was sent to site on a justin-time 

basis, aligned to the installation schedule 

of the cladding contractor, Specialist Cladding 

Systems (SCS), part of CA Group. 

Kevin Baynes, Project Manager at SCS 

commented: “The lightweight SureClad panels 

are not only ideal for a lighter structure but are 

also much easier to handle on site. For this 

project we used the SureClad Hang On system, 

which was very easy to work with, and 

Shackerley made it easy to identify each panel on 

the installation schedule, which helped the 

project run smoothly.” 

Contact Shackerley 

01257 273114 

www.Shackerley.com 


Cladding & Sheeting Updates 

SAFE SOLUTIONS 

MechSlip, the innovative brick slip cladding Extremely lightweight, the mechanically fixed 

system developed by Ibstock Kevington and brick slip system delivers all the benefits of a 

Ash & Lacy, has been awarded BBA 

natural clay brick but is more than 50% lighter 

certification, incorporating a third-party than traditional masonry, reducing structural 

assured A1 Fire Rating. 

loads. What’s more, it is the first brick system to 

use Ibstock Brick and contain no combustible 

The certification is an important step forward for 

parts – a key safety consideration. 

the MechSlip solution, as it means it can be 

specified and installed with confidence on highrise 

residential buildings above 18 metres. The off-site and delivered to developments ready to 

The system is also adaptable to being assembled 

accreditation affords MechSlip compliance with install – an innovation that is both labour saving 

Approved Document B of the Building 

and cost effective. 

Regulations, which addresses fire safety matters 

Iain Durrant, Managing Director at Ibstock 

within and around buildings. 

Kevington, said: “The MechSlip system is the 

Born out of a partnership between the UK’s result of prolonged investment and collaboration 

largest brickwork special shape and masonry between Ibstock Kevington and Ash & Lacy, and 

fabrication company, Ibstock Kevington, and Ash represents a game changing solution for 

& Lacy, specialists in engineered building 

architects and specifiers. Achieving BBA 

envelope systems, MechSlip is totally unique to certification is a vital step forward for the 

the UK market. 

product. Stringently tested in a real world testing 

MechSlip from Ibstock Kevington and Ash & Lacy. 

environment, achieving one of the highest fire 

safety ratings available means MechSlip can be 

specified and installed with utmost confidence.” 

Adam Taylor, Commercial Director at Ash & Lacy, 

added: “Lightweight, easy-to-install, aesthetically 

pleasing and rigorously tested, MechSlip 

represents a total package solution for architects 

and specifiers. The collaboration between Ibstock 

Kevington and Ash & Lacy has enabled us to 

combine our individual expertise to create a 

cladding system that meets the exacting needs of 

the architect and specifier of today.” 

https://mechslip.co.uk 

MAGPLY DELIVERS FOR FIRE SAFETY 

Widely specified for its fire resistance and all round stability in the cladding build-up to 

apartment blocks, as well as a render backer and sheathing board, IPP’s highly versatile Magply 

boards have been employed by a regional developer as a fireproof sarking board beneath 

traditional thatched roofing for a development in a beautiful Dorset village. 

The 12mm thick version of the high performance MgO material was selected by Poole-based Charlew 

Developments, to comply with the project architect’s performance specification for the solitary 

thatched roof building on a nine house scheme in the village of Owermoigne, near Dorchester. 

Backed by BDA Agrement certification, Magply MgO 

boards present a fire-safe and environmentally friendly 

alternative to conventional plywood or OSB products. 

Reflecting an aesthetic ethos similar to that adopted for Prince Charles’ landmark Poundbury development on the outskirts of Dorchester, local planners 

made the inclusion of a thatched property a stipulation of planning permission for the development and the exterior to the four bedroom dwelling also 

includes panels of flint-work between the bands of handmade brick which form the window surrounds. 

The thatch was installed by specialist roofing company RV Miller from Keynes Wareham in Dorset. The overall roof construction saw the 12mm Magply 

boards being nailed down across the main rafters and covered by a breather membrane before battens were secured in the conventional manner, 

running across the pitches. The authentic reed thatch was then laid up the pitch and shaped around the eyebrow dormers at the roof edge and verges. 

The site agent for Charlew Developments, Jules Peach, commented: “The project architects, Anders Roberts, specified the use of a one hour fire 

resisting board to be installed beneath the thatch covering. I researched a number of different board types before talking to our merchant, Travis 

Perkins, which recommended the Magply product. We have found the boards very straightforward to cut and fix before covering them with the breather 

membrane and battens.” www.magply.co.uk 


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PIR Insulation 

A PIR-FECT FIT FOR FLAT ROOFS 

Nigel Blacklock, of flat roofing specialists Bauder and vice-President of Insulation 

Manufacturers Association, looks at the benefits of using a reliable, durable system 

incorporating PIR insulation in flat roofing applications. 

Roofs must offer year-round protection 

against the elements, therefore insulation 

that offers excellent thermal performance 

and durability is absolutely crucial. Insulation 

plays an important role in protecting the built 

environment and helping buildings achieve the 

net zero 2050 targets. PIR products offer the best 

solution when it comes to selecting an insulant to 

suit a range of building types and can be used in 

flat, pitched and tapered roofs. PIR continues to 

be the maintstay of flat roofing with around 70% 

of flat roofs using this versatile insulation. 

Thermal performance 

As a result of its excellent thermal performance, 

with a design lambda value typically as low as 

0.022W/mK, PIR insulation offers one of the 

thinnest methods of achieving the current U- 

value requirements of Building Regulations and 

Technical Standards – an essential characteristic 

in the drive to reach net zero carbon goals in 

2050. 

Tapered insulation 

Tapered roofs have become 

increasingly popular but 

provide their own unique 

challenges. To maintain 

thermal performance of a 

heated building, BS 6229:2018 

states the minimum U-value of 

0.35W/m²K must be achieved at any point on the 

roof. Whilst vacuum insulated panels (VIPs) are 

very thin and offer excellent thermal performance, 

they are very expensive and are used sparingly, 

usually in conjunction with PIR. However, it is 

possible to achieve this required minimum U- 

value with PIR tapered from 60mm upwards, thus 

demonstrating the design flexibility of the product 

including an effective drainage scheme. 

Strength and stability 

Strength and stability is important to provide a 

solid, stable substrate for the waterproofing. 

PIR’s compressive strength and dimensional 

Left: Nigel Blacklock of Bauder 

and Vice President of the IMA. 

stability is integral to its specification 

for a range of flat roof applications 

which means it is able to withstand 

foot traffic; a major benefit in relation to 

roof maintenance, as well as protecting the 

waterproofing itself. Many common waterproofing 

systems are bonded to the insulation so the 

interlaminar strength of PIR adds to the overall 

excellent performance of flat roofing systems 

under wind loading. 

All these characteristics provide the long term 

and reliable performance that have become the 

minimum expectation of a high performing flat 

roof system. 

All-round performer 

PIR insulation is able to achieve the highest fire 

classification of Broof(t4) when tested in 

accordance with TS 1187 and classified to EN 

13501-5. 

In terms of performance, PIR is a true all-rounder. 

As well as its key role in flat roofing it can be 

used in all types of wall and floor projects too, as 

its strength, durability and thermal performance 

are important in creating healthy, comfortable 

buildings. By helping to decrease the energy 

consumption of such properties, PIR not only 

plays a part in reducing household bills, it is 

contributing to the cultivation of a built 

environment that is just as remarkable for its 

long-standing sustainability. 

Contact IMA 

www.insulationmanufacturers.org.uk 

@IMA_Org 


Insulation solutions 

for flat roofs 

Recticel Insulation is an experienced flat roofing partner, 

providing innovative and reliable insulation solutions for 

flat roof applications. 

Discover the ideal solution for your flat roof project at 

recticelinsulation.co.uk

Fabric-First Approach 

ACHIEVING AS-DESIGNED ENERGY 

PERFORMANCE ON PROJECTS 

By Simon Blackham, Technical Manager at Recticel Insulation. 

get out of life what you put in’ is an 

often repeated phrase which could just 

‘You 

as easily apply to building design. A 

property’s energy performance is hugely 

dependent on the quality of insulant materials 

installed within walls, floors and roofs. It’s why 

taking a fabric-first approach and prioritising the 

composition of a building’s key structural 

elements is seen as crucial to achieving a desired 

level of sustainability. 

Poorly-insulated homes not only prove costly to 

the householder in terms of higher-than-average 

fuel bills, but the environment also pays a price. 

A report by the Institution of Engineering and 

Technology (IET) and Nottingham Trent University 

revealed that energy use in UK homes accounts 

for about 20% of UK greenhouse gas emissions, 

three-quarters of which derives from heating and 

hot water. A reduction in this figure will be among 

measures needed to be taken if the UK’s 

government pledge for carbon neutrality by 2050 

is to become reality. 

Building priorities 

When it comes to a building’s 

design, prioritising the fabric, 

including the structure of 

walls, floors and roofs, will 

ensure a property – if built and 

insulated correctly – will have an 

increased capability to perform as 

intended. 

The fabric-first process enables homes to achieve 

lower U-values and improved airtightness without 

the need to install renewable technologies such 

as air source heart pumps and biomass boilers – 

equipment that can be costly and complicated to 

maintain and operate. This fabric-led approach 

also means a home’s thermal efficiency can be 

significantly improved without radically rethinking 

the way the building itself is designed and 

constructed. 

A key part of achieving this fabric-first approach 

is through the correct specification of materials 

and understanding how materials perform with 

each other i.e. as a system. 

Furthermore, manufacturers are 

continually looking at ways to 

improve buildability through 

products that offer simpler and 

more reliable methods of 

installation to aid contractors and 

ensure buildings are built asdesigned. 

Benefits of PIR 

One example of innovation designed to aid 

building is the development of polyisocyanurate 

(PIR) insulation, which is rapidly becoming the 

go-to solution for specifiers in search of a more 

reliable, durable and sustainable alternative to 

mineral or glass wool. The panels satisfy two vital 

factors for designing effective insulation solutions 

for new, as well as existing buildings: low thermal 

conductivity and durable performance. Such 

properties are a prerequisite for ensuring homes 

perform as designed and in the long-term, 

creating healthy, comfortable interiors which are 

cost-effective to maintain. 

With lambda values as low as 0.022 W/mK, PIR 

insulation panels provide excellent performance. 

This, coupled with their slim composition, means 

they require less space to achieve the same U- 

value as other insulation materials. For mineral 

wool to attain the same level of thermal 

performance as a PIR panel such as Recticel’s 

flagship full-fill cavity wall product Eurowall+ – 

which helps to achieve a 0.18 U-value with a 

90mm-thick panel in a 100mm cavity – a much 

thicker insulation and overall wall width would be 

required. Once the cavity width grows, wall-tie 

lengths have to be increased and window and 

door lintels expanded. The whole building process 

becomes more expansive and costly, as original 


(QUITE INTERESTING) 

INSULATION FA 

ACTS 

By QI (Quantum Insulation Ltd) 

designs and the property’s overall thermal performance risk being 

compromised. 

PIR’s structural strength also enables a consistent performance that will 

last for generations; negating costly repairs and maintaining its thermal 

qualities. PIR insulation is also renowned for its adaptability. It is the ideal 

solution for a range of applications such as floors, walls, pitched and flat 

roofing. 

Innovations, such as the tongue and groove joint which features on all four 

sides of Eurowall+, have helped further establish PIR performance levels. 

The 10mm air gap, which is created by a 90mm Eurowall+ PIR board 

achieving a U-value of 0.18 W/m²K in a traditional 100mm masonry cavity 

wall, makes for a more convenient fit for bricklayers when it comes to 

installing the insulation. This approach to recording lower U-values while 

maintaining traditional cavity widths and ensuring build quality means asdesigned 

can be achieved. 

Future comforts 

Fabric-first involves taking a reassuringly back-to-basics approach to 

building design. It provides a solid foundation for achieving thermal 

performance that is optimal and consistent. Specifying first-rate insulants 

for a property’s structural framework will significantly reduce the risk of a 

second-rate outcome in terms of its sustainability. Such considerations are 

vital if we are intent on reducing the built environment’s carbon footprint for 

the safety and comfort of future generations. 

BBA 

Building Bulletin 4, 

what is it and what’s changed? 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Guidelines for Eur opean Technical 

Appr 

oval of Inverted R 

oof 

Insulation Kits 

Part 1: General 

 

 

So, what has changed in the decade since this IB No 4 was originally 

published? 

Drainage 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Zero pitch roofs 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

U-value corrections 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

https://www.quantuminsulation.com/downloads/ 

Next month’s QI by QI – ‘What are the impacts of 

multi-layer insulatio on 

in an inverted roof 

oof?’ 

Contact Recticel 

www.recticelinsulation.com/en-gb/ 

@RecticelInsulUK 


All You Need to Know About: 

WATER FLOW REDUCING LAYERS... 

In the first of a new series of articles from Polyfoam XPS, Rob Firman (pictured) looks at 

water flow reducing layers (WFRLs) – an essential part of inverted flat roof construction. 

Designers and installers of flat roofing solutions are often expected to be experts in the products 

they’re using, as well as how to use them. Such expectations can be unrealistic when the 

marketplace is full of conflicting advice concerning what you ‘should’ know about every available 

system or component. In this new series of articles, I will look at the different parts of flat roofing design 

and construction and explain what contractors need to know. This month, I will focus on water 

flow reducing layers (WFRLs), which are an essential part of inverted flat roof construction... 

What is the role of a WFRL on an 

inverted roof? 

An inverted flat roof features the waterproofing 

layer installed directly on the structural deck. 

Above the waterproofed deck, an inverted roof 

system, or ‘kit’, is loose laid and secured by 

ballast. The system is a combination of thermal 

insulation and a membrane, called a water flow 

reducing layer. The ballast is typically gravel or 

paving slabs. 

This arrangement allows a roof to be waterproofed 

sooner and protects the waterproofing layer from 

UV exposure and freeze thaw actions. 

Why is it important to install a WFRL 

correctly? 

Because of the location of the waterproofing 

below the thermal insulation, WFRLs were 

developed as a way to limit the ingress of 

moisture into inverted roof systems. 

The membrane is loose laid over the thermal 

insulation layer and acts as a barrier to 

significantly reduce the volume of rainwater 

reaching the waterproofing. 

The WFRL is not a waterproof layer and no 

standards or guidance relating to inverted roofs 

suggest otherwise. Some moisture is still 

expected to reach the waterproofing layer and 

relevant corrections are applied to U-value 

calculations accordingly. 

If you have to obtain U-value calculations for an 

inverted roof construction, there are two 

adjustments that should be applied: 

• The thermal conductivity of the 

insulation should be adjusted by a 

moisture correction factor. 

• A rainwater cooling correction should 

be applied to the whole calculation to give the 

final U-value. 

Both adjustments are important, but the accuracy 

of the rainwater cooling correction is particularly 

dependent on a high quality WFRL installation being 

achieved on site. A poorly installed WFRL, or no 

WFRL at all, would lead to a much greater level of 

rainwater cooling occurring on the completed roof. 

How should a WFRL be installed? 

The structural roof deck should be fully 

waterproofed in accordance with the 

manufacturer’s design guidance and details. 

Insulation suitable for inverted roof applications – 

such as extruded polystyrene (XPS) – should then 

be loose laid in a brick bond pattern, again in 

accordance with instructions and details provided. 

A summary of WFRL installation: 

• Lay the WFRL over the roof insulation at right 

angles to the slope of the roof. 

• Make sure all side and end overlaps are a 

minimum of 300mm, and that end overlaps are in 

the direction of the downward slope. 

• Turn up the membrane at upstands and 

penetrations so it finishes above the surface of 

the ballast. 

• As both the insulation and the WFRL are loose 

“WFRLs were developed 

as a way to limit the 

ingress of moisture 

into inverted roof 

systems” 

laid, it is recommended to install 

only as much of the system as can 

be ballasted at the time. Further 

guidance is available in LRWA 

Guidance Note 14. 

What are common issues with WFRL 

installation? 

BS 6229:2018 refers to post-construction damage 

as being one cause of poor WFRL performance, so 

another reason for laying ballast on an advancing 

front is to protect the membrane from site traffic 

as materials are moved across the roof. 

Correct drainage and roof falls are a topic for 

discussion all on their own, but they are critical to 

the success of a WFRL installation. Back falls 

should never be allowed to occur on a roof, and 

are a potential reason for worse than expected 

performance of a WFRL. If a back fall causes 

rainwater flow across the roof in the opposite 

direction to the intended fall, it may flow under an 

end lap. 

Because a WFRL is an effective barrier to 

rainwater, but not waterproof, the inverted roof 

should be designed with dual-level drainage. 

Rainwater outlets are detailed to drain at both 

WFRL level and waterproofing level, and should 

be installed accordingly. Part of that correct 

installation is ensuring that the WFRL is turned 

down at outlets. 

Contact Polyfoam XPS 

www.polyfoamxps.co.uk 

@PolyfoamXPS 


NON-COMBUSTIBL E EXTERNAL UPSTA 

AND BOARD 

ROCKFACE A2 

www.q 

uantuminsulation.com 

A2 


Tapered Falls & Gutter Details: 

MAINTAINING CONSISTENT 

INSULATION PERFORMANCE 

Designing tapered falls within flat roof insulation simplifies rainwater management and 

offers advantages during the construction process, but there are additional considerations 

when it comes to performance. Will Wigfield, Product Manager – Building Envelope, 

ROCKWOOL UK, explores the benefits of tapered falls and how designers can maintain 

consistent insulation performance across a flat roof while accounting for varying 

insulation thickness. 

Designing tapered falls is one of the most 

common rainwater management strategies 

for flat roofs, as the gradient ensures 

water channelling towards gutter details and 

ultimately helps to avoid ‘ponding’ on the roof. 

Ponding can accelerate the degradation of roofing 

materials, contribute stress to load bearing 

elements and even encourage the growth of moss 

and algae – making the reduced drying times 

offered by tapered falls even more attractive. 

During construction, creating the fall and 

installing insulation can be achieved in a single 

operation by specifying a tapered insulation 

system. This helps simplify installation, reduce 

site traffic and even cut down on costs. 

Key considerations for insulating 

tapered falls 

Flat roofs featuring tapered falls must achieve 

compliance with building regulations including 

Approved Document B (ADB) and relevant sectorspecific 

guidelines such as BB93 for education, 

but there are also key considerations pertaining 

specifically to tapered falls. 

BS 6229:2018, ‘Flat roofs with continuously 

supported flexible waterproof coverings – Code of 

practice’ specifies that tapered falls should be 

“designed with a fall of 1:40 to ensure finished 

drainage falls of 1:80 are achieved”. This means 

that insulation thickness will vary across the roof 

to maintain the fall, making it more difficult for 

designers to ensure that the roof meets the 

designated thermal requirements. 

As per BS 6229:2018, the roofs of heated 

buildings “must be insulated to provide a U-value 

that does not exceed 0.35 W/m²K at any point” – 

a key consideration at gutter details, where 

insulation will typically be at its thinnest. 

Designers must then calculate the overall U-value 

of the roof factoring in these gutter details as well 

as the tapered fall, which is not a case of simply 

averaging the insulation thickness across the 

roof. 

The correct method is given in Annex E of BS EN 

ISO 6946, ‘Building components and building

“When designing 

tapered falls, the 

impact of varying 

insulation thickness on 

acoustic performance 

must be taken into 

account” 

elements – Thermal resistance and thermal 

transmittance – Calculation methods’. This 

method accounts for varying insulation thickness 

by using an area-weighted average of the 

corresponding thermal performance to 

accurately calculate the overall U- 

value across the roof. 

BS 6229:2018 and BS 

8233:2014, ‘Guidance on 

sound insulation and 

noise reduction for 

buildings’, also refer to the 

acoustic requirements of flat 

roofs. When designing tapered 

falls, the impact of varying 

insulation thickness on acoustic 

performance must be taken into account, and 

designers may require insulation that delivers 

excellent acoustic performance to meet their 

targets. 

Managing interfaces between tapered 

falls and gutter details 

Forming tapered falls with a 1:40 gradient 

contributes to water flow towards rainwater 

outlets, but gutter details also introduce 

insulation considerations. The insulation layer 

within a gutter detail will usually be thinner than 

most of the flat roof in order to maintain the 

gradient required for drainage – and this must be 

accounted for when determining the thermal 

performance of the roof system as a whole. 

In fact, thermal targets are especially relevant at 

gutter details where rainwater is concerned, as 

there is increased risk of condensation. The 0.35 

W/m²K maximum U-value stated in BS 

6229:2018 is in place 

to avoid or reduce risk 

of condensation, and 

the document goes on 

to state that care should 

be taken to ensure 

continuity of insulation at 

junctions and penetrations. 

Maintaining thermal performance via Annex E 

calculations and continuous insulation will help 

designers to address condensation – but 

condensation is not the only risk associated with 

flat roofs… 

Flat roofs and fire risk 

Whether used as a means of escape or a place of 

refuge, flat roofs are a key part of a building’s fire 

safety strategy. But while the combustible 

cladding ban can extend to prohibit combustible 

materials on upstands, balconies and terraces, it 

stops short of requiring all areas of roof insulation 

to be non-combustible. Given the absence of an 

outright ban, designers must ensure that they are 

familiar with the relevant standards for flat roofs. 

Of particular importance are junction details 

between the roof and compartment walls, as 

covered in ADB Volume 2 Section 8.26. It is 

essential that fire cannot spread via the roof 

build-up, bypassing compartmentation to enter 

new zones – nor go on to take hold within the roof 

structure itself. 

With all this in mind, there is an increasingly 

common trend among designers to use noncombustible 

insulation across the whole roof. This 

avoids complicated zoning concerns and 

streamlines the installation process – which is 

especially valuable where contractors will already 

be working around tapered falls. 

Using non-combustible insulation materials is not 

just a best-practice measure for ensuring 

effective risk management in today’s market, it 

also serves to futureproof buildings and 

specifications against changing client demands 

and an evolving regulatory landscape. 

To support flat roof specification and installation, 

ROCKWOOL has launched a new Flat Roof 

Resource Hub which brings together all the key 

information and resources that roofing 

stakeholders may need – saving time and 

simplifying flat roof design. 

Contact ROCKWOOL UK 

www.rockwool.com/uk/flat-roof-hub/ 

@ROCKWOOLUK 


Insulation Updates 


KNAUF KEY TO DELIVERY 

Four years ago, sustainable developer Citu System to install Supafil Frame – a high 

set out to create homes 10 times more energy performance, non-combustible blowing wool. 

efficient than typical UK houses. To do this, 

Supafil Blowing Wool lends itself to offsite 

the company invested in a state-of-the-art 

production because it completely fills the cavity, 

production facility where all the components 

without any voids even around complex 

for its properties are built offsite. 

penetrations – something that can occur when 

Thermal performance is critical to energy 

insulation slabs or rolls are cut to size. It is also 

efficiency. Citu wanted to go far beyond the a dry process, so operatives are not exposed to 

regulations to achieve wall build-ups with an any harmful chemicals and it doesn’t require a 

extremely low U-value of just 0.10W/m²K. This is dedicated production line. 

at least three times better than the U-value 

Instead, the system comprises a blowing 

achieved in most new build homes and fifteen 

machine and a filling plate. The system is 

times better than older houses. 

modular allowing for phased investment. Citu 

Citu turned to Knauf Insulation for advice and opted to install the blowing machine in phase 

support in developing the offsite capability one, which allowed them to manually fill the 

required for this level of thermal performance. panels. Phase two saw the addition of the 

Knauf Insulation’s Technical Support Team blowing plate, semi-automating the process. 

undertook extensive calculations and 

Supafil Frame can be run by a single operator, 

recommended the Blowing Plate Insulation 

Knauf Insulation’s Blowing Plate Insulation System ensures 

that cavities are filled to the correct thickness. 

fits easily into the existing production line, and 

can even be moved quickly and swiftly to other 

areas in the manufacturing facility depending on 

Citu’s volume capacity requirements. 

Knauf Insulation’s Technical Support Team 

provided full training and support during each 

phase of installation. 

www.knaufinsulation.com 

STO PRODUCTS USED IN EDINBURGH’S OLD TOWN 

StoTherm Mineral insulation and StoSilco render were used to provide outstanding thermal performance on the 

recently completed Peveril Securities King’s Stables Road mixed-use development in Edinburgh’s city centre. This 

project illustrates Sto’s ability to work closely with specifiers, contractors and clients to ensure that the most 

appropriate solution was chosen for this project. 

Located in the Edinburgh Old Town’s historic Grassmarket area, the £40M King’s Stables Road development is a landmark 

scheme delivering housing, premium student accommodation, a 4-star apart-hotel and various commercial units, set 

around a number of public courtyards. “This was a large project for which a rainscreen cladding system was originally 

considered,” said Sto’s Project Manager, Jim Reid. “However, budget constraints meant that an alternative solution was 

required. The façades of the buildings feature numerous multi-level surfaces, and any alternative solution had to be able to 

accommodate these and various other complex detailing requirements, while still meeting the budgetary requirements.” 

Pic: Paul Zanre Photography. 

Sto successfully worked in partnership with project architects, Fletcher Joseph Associates, and façade specialists AFS (Scotland) who installed the 

StoTherm Mineral system. The result was a fully bespoke insulation system which satisfied all the project requirements. The mineral-fibre insulation 

boards used in the StoTherm system provide excellent thermal performance along with unrivalled fire protection, great durability and impressive sound 

insulation. The system’s efficient single-leaf construction does not reduce interior space and requires no additional expansion joints. This allowed the 

smooth external surfaces which are used in the King’s Stables Road design to be created. Some sections of the development used Sto’s unique Sto- 

Rotofix Plus adjustable spiral fixings to secure the insulation boards to the substrate. 

“We’ve used Sto’s external wall insulation on many previous projects and find that it performs extremely well,” commented Steve Avery of AFS 

(Scotland). “The StoTherm system is very straightforward to install, but still provides a high degree of flexibility which makes it a very practical 

solution.” www.sto.co.uk 


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Insulation Updates 

ISOGARD HD GROWTH 


Permaroof has added Firestone ISOGARD HD for the insulation material in the UK. 

to its growing portfolio of building products – Manufactured with a 100% fibreglass, mould, 

making the innovative and environmentallyfriendly 

polyiso board more widely available performing product – which adds structural 

and moisture-resistant facer, the high- 

to the UK market. 

strength to an entire roofing system and helps to 

absorb the effects of hail, foot traffic and other Adrian Buttress, MD at Permaroof, said: “When 

Firestone ISOGARD HD – a 12.7mm thick polyiso 

potentially damaging impacts – works to 

foot traffic on a roof is heavy, mineral wood 

board that has been designed for use as a cover 

minimise energy use and reduce waste, helping boards run the risk of being crushed or, in the 

board – launched in the US in 2017 and until 

to ensure a healthy environment for current and case of plastic foam insulations, the adhesion of 

now, had been sold in the UK on a low key, 

future generations. It is also easy to cut and the facer to the foam can be affected. The 

project-by-project basis. Permaroof has already 

handle for quick installation around roofing Firestone ISOGARD HD cover board spreads the 

sold more than 3,000m² of the product on a very 

details such as drains or other penetrations, load and protects the boards underneath.” 

low-key pilot scheme – showing a high demand 

reducing installation time and labour costs. www.permaroof.co.uk 

FUNDING BOOST FOR YBS INSULATION 

Insulation manufacturer YBS Insulation has received a £250,000 loan to progress its growth plans. 

YBS secured the finance from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund East & South East Midlands Debt Finance 

Fund, managed by Maven Capital Partners. The business, based in Creswell, Derbyshire, will use the funding to 

invest in new production machinery to increase its output capacity, as well as strengthening its sales and 

Above: Simon Sharkey, YBS Insulation. 

marketing function. The deal will help YBS continue to generate new business opportunities by enhancing its digital 

presence, improving its e-platform and growing its social media presence. YBS specialises in producing building 

insulation products for private homes and the construction sector such as multi-foil insulation, bubble laminates, cavity closers and foil membranes. 

Simon Sharkey, Managing Director at YBS, commented: “This marks another exciting milestone for YBS as we look to continuously improve our customer 

offering though new product developments and improved efficiency. We have significantly advanced the business over recent years, but this will provide 

the investment to really accelerate our plans. Jonathan and Maven have been instrumental in securing this investment and we at YBS are looking 

forward to building on this relationship.’’ www.ybsinsulation.com / www.mavencp.com 

ROCKWOOL: ‘USE LESS, GREEN THE REST’ WORKS BEST 

Trucost, part of S&P Global, has classified all ROCKWOOL Group products as having a positive impact on the UN Sustainable Development 

Goals, while the company has met or exceeded two of its six sustainability targets ahead of time. 

As governments and societies continue to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic, greening the economic recovery takes on even greater significance. 

ROCKWOOL Group’s Sustainability Report 2020 details the contribution the company’s product makes toward this goal, including updates on operational 

improvements and progress on supporting the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Reducing energy and resource consumption is essential to 

addressing the global climate challenge, and ROCKWOOL products play a key role. “Saving energy first and then using renewables is the most costeffective 

way of decarbonising society. That is why we continue saying the best approach is to ‘use less and green the rest’”, commented ROCKWOOL 

CEO Jens Birgersson. Jens Birgersson continued: “We are proud that S&P Global Trucost has again classified all our products as SDG positive, meaning 

they have a positive impact on reaching the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Sustainability is at the core of our business, and we pursue a factbased 

and auditable approach to document how we maximise our products’ impact and minimise the impact of our operations.” Notably, the S&P Global 

Trucost organisation has assessed more than 15,000 companies globally and finds that ROCKWOOL is among top 10 when it comes to the positive 

impact from its products. www.rockwool.com/uk/ 


Article 

Safety Products 

A SHARPER FOCUS ON EYE SAFETY 

AND FACE PROTECTION PRODUCTS 

From the experts at Hultafors Group UK and Hellberg Safety... 

Face Protection products, such as safety 

glasses, masks and visors, have all been 

brought into much sharper focus during the 

Covid-19 pandemic. They’re all critical 

components in the PPE framework that ensures 

wellbeing and safety at work. 

In business and industrial environments, the use 

of Face Protection products should be second 

nature. But believe it or not, a recent report 

showed that many men are now more concerned 

about face masks of the cosmetic kind than 

personal safety and protection on site. 

A poll of 1,000 people found that British males 

spend an average £760-a-year on ‘essentials’ to 

keep their skin in tip-top condition. That’s 

probably far more than a single person would 

spend on PPE in a year. What’s more it’s 

estimated that the UK market for men’s face care 

products is worth over £77 million a year! 

But anti-wrinkle creams, facial washes, scrubs 

and face masks will hardly provide proper 

protection of vital facial features when working in 

hazardous environments. Sadly, accidents 

happen all the time, sometimes in the most 

innocuous situations that we might ordinarily take 

for granted – like strimming the garden, jet 

washing the patio, cutting wood or drilling a wall. 

Perhaps unsurprisingly, industrial and 

construction-related work has a much higher rate 

of facial injuries than any other with hazards many 

and varied. Impact injuries can be caused by flying 

objects such as stone or brick fragments, particles 

of dirt and dust, tiny pieces of metal and splinters 

caused by hammering, chipping, grinding, 

machining, wood working, sawing, and drilling. 

Chemicals and extreme heat sources are also 

dangerous to the face. Splashes, fumes, vapours 

and irritating mists can scald and burn while 

welding arcs, UV radiation and intense light can 

damage your eyes. The consequences of facial 

injuries are serious, potentially life-threatening. Not 

just time off work and loss of pay as a result of short 

or long-term injuries, there’s the potential for 

something more significant. An injury can cause a 

lifetime of permanent disfigurement, even loss of 

sight. Surely that’s a good enough reason for using 

proper eye and face protection products all the time? 

That said, some people will always find a reason 

not to. Cheap face protection products are 

‘uncool’, they ‘fog up’ and are often unwearable 

because pressure, pinching and slipping points 

are a nightmare for users, and the PPE ends up 

on top of workers’ heads or in their pockets 

instead of over their eyes. 

What to look for in the best safety eyewear 

Comfort, protection and fit is really important, as 

are lightweight, durable materials to provide 

complete protection and flexibility of design for 

combination with other PPE including ear 

defenders, safety helmets, and visors. 

Also, look out for specially developed lens 

technology for impact-resistance plus anti-scratch 

and anti-fog coatings on both sides, as well as 

styles that can be worn over prescription glasses. 

Around the lens, ergonomic designs should 

incorporate practical features, like a soft nose 

bridge and ‘adjustable temples’, which ensure the 

glasses stay in place and fit safely allowing you to 

keep a sharp focus all day long. 

What to look for in the best face 

protection visors 

BS EN 166:2002 is the International Standard for 

eye and face protection covering personal 

protective eye wear in the form of Visors and Eye 

Shields, and it’s important to look for this standard 

when you’re choosing what products to use. 

Think carefully about hazards in the work 

environment and look for a product that is 

designed for a comfortable, tight and ergonomic 

fit for maximum protection, especially so that no 

objects get around the edges of the visor. The 

visor should cover your face from at least the 

forehead to the base of the chin. 

The best quality Visors are available in different 

materials, thickness and size which correspond to 

specific hazard protection. You can even get Visors 

that are treated with an anti-fog coating. Don’t 

assume that a basic product that you might use 

for strimming or jet washing will provide maximum 

effective protection on a construction site. 

Continued on page 70

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Safety Products 

Continued from page 68 

Top quality SAFE face protection from 

Hellberg Safety 

Hellberg Safety specialist PPE products include 

highly advanced face protection products, noise 

hazard protection and communication solutions 

for personal safety and wellbeing on site. 

Hellberg’s interoperable face protection products 

offer helmet and visor solutions to suit a variety 

of internal and external work situations. With a 

standard product design across the range, users 

are able to mix and match visors, carriers, and 

hearing protectors for complete ‘headband-only’ 

or ‘safety helmet’ solutions that protect against 

the hazards faced in differing task environments. 

Everything single component in the Hellberg 

Safety PPE range combines the hallmarks of 

advanced technology, quality and comfort with 

superb, practical protection for the hazards you’re 

likely to face – whatever job you’re doing in highrisk 

work environments. 

Find focus with Hellberg’s range of allnew 

specialist safety glasses and goggles 

Renowned for its hi-spec PPE that includes 

advanced hearing protection products, face 

protection and communication solutions, 

Hellberg Safety has launched a new range of 

safety eyewear. 

With a wide range of street-smart styles, from 

basic to premium – the new range ensures a 

consistently clear line of sight and safe vision for 

professional tradesmen and women wherever 

they’re working on site. 

Built with lightweight, durable materials and 

specially developed lens technology, the eyewear 

provides complete protection, and comfort 

throughout the working day and can be easily 

combined with other PPE including ear defenders, 

safety helmets, and visors. 

With a focus on enhanced safety in all 

conditions, Hellberg Safety Eyewear has 

impact-resistant lenses with anti-scratch and 

“Hellberg’s interoperable face protection 

products offer helmet and visor solutions to suit 

a variety of internal and external work situations” 

“The new range 

ensures a consistently 

clear line of sight and 

safe vision for 

professional 

tradesmen and women 

wherever they’re 

working on site” 

anti-fog coating on both sides, and there are 

styles that can be worn over prescription 

glasses. 

Around the lens, the ergonomic design, 

incorporates practical features, like a soft nose 

bridge and ‘adjustable temples’, making sure 

the glasses stay in place and fit safely, allowing 

you to keep your focus all day long. 

With Hellberg Safety Visor Protection prices 

starting at only £17* and good quality Eyewear 

at £9*, it’s a worthwhile investment in longerlasting 

Eye and Face Protection – and a lot more 

effective than anti-wrinkle cream! 

*RRP, plus VAT. 

Contact Hultafors Group UK / Hellberg Safety 

01484 854788 

www.hellbergsafety.com 


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Updates 


MORE CORDLESS POWER 

Makita has expanded its high-performance 

40VMax XGT range with the launch of nine 

new tools, including the company’s first twin 

40VMax (80VMax) machines. 

The new additions all feature Makita’s high 

efficiency brushless motors and offer leading 

performance and run-times due to advances in 

battery technology and Makita’s innovative 

brushless motors that minimise friction and 

wasted energy within the machine. The new 

40VMax x2 (80VMax) XGT Brushless Rotary 

Demolition Hammer (HR006GZ) features variable 

speed control and two operating modes – rotary 

hammer and hammer only. It has a rotary speed 

of 150 to 310 rpm and delivers 1,100 to 2,250 

blows per minute (bpm). 

Makita has also launched a Brushless Combi Drill, 

Brushless Brad Nailer and two Brushless Circular 

saws, all of which utilise the powerful 40VMax XGT 

battery system. The versatile HP002GZ 40VMax 

XGT Brushless Combi Drill (pictured) has a 

mechanical 2-speed control (high and low), a 

variable speed trigger and 21 torque settings for 

full user control. Kevin Brannigan, Marketing 

Manager at Makita UK, said: “We are delighted to 

launch the new additions to the XGT range, 

including the first of our 80VMax XGT line up. 

These new high performance tools provide 

customers with even greater choice in utilising 

cordless power. With Makita’s expertise in battery 

technology, users are now offered the 

performance levels and productivity of specialist 

corded tools but with all the safety and flexibility 

that cordless offers.” 

www.makitauk.com 

STREET-SMART SHORT COMFORT ON SITE! 

Combining 4-way stretch fabric that delivers working comfort all day with street-smart, slim-fit designs, 

Snickers says its new work shorts are great for grafting in the warmer months. 

These lightweight garments feature a body-mapping design and are made from a self-ventilating stretch fabric 

with CORDURA reinforcements for durability and all-round mobility when you need it most. 

The Men’s FLEXIWork lightweight work shorts come with flexible gusset seams and also have easy-to-access 

holster pockets with zip compartments, an expandable stretch cargo pocket and a ruler pocket. The 

AllroundWork women’s multi-purpose slim-fit shorts have 4-way stretch panels in the right places for 

consistent comfort, practical pockets for optimal functionality and great freedom of movement. 

For professional tradespeople who rely on their gear in demanding environments, they’re a must for those who 

want the ultimate in cool comfort this summer. www.snickersworkwear.co.uk 

STACKED IN YOUR FAVOUR 

Milwaukee has introduced an essential range of PACKOUT Drawers that enable rapid and easy 

access to your tools, even if they’re at the bottom of the PACKOUT stack. 

Available in two options, the two and three drawer models both include steel ball bearings that 

support up to 11kg per drawer and an advanced locking security bar – which can be locked with a 

padlock – that prevents drawers from opening during transit. 

Quick-adjust drawer dividers are supplied with each drawer, allowing users to organise their tools 

and accessories exactly how they want them for speed and convenience. PACKOUT’s famous durable 

construction enables a weight capacity of 22kg, plus its metal reinforced corners and impact 

resistant polymer construction allow for the ultimate resilience. 

https://uk.milwaukeetool.eu 


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Updates 


HULTAFORS ADDS TO OFFERING 

The Hultafors Group has completed the 

acquisition of the Fristads, Kansas and 

Leijona protective wear brands 

following approval by the relevant 

competition authorities. 

Peter Dumigan, Managing Director of the 

Hultafors Group UK, said: “All three are 

well-known brands in professional 

workwear with well-established market 

positions in Sweden, Denmark, Finland and 

will complement the Snickers Workwear 

brand throughout the European market 

very well indeed.” 

With a portfolio of premium PPE brands that 

includes Snickers Workwear, Hellberg Safety, 

as well as EMMA, Solid Gear Safety Footwear 

and Hultafors Tools, the Hultafors Group 

serves markets throughout Europe and North 

America. 

Its aim is to continue to drive the 

development of all its brands with a focus 

on customer value, product innovation and 

sustainability. 

Find out more about the Hultafors Group 

product range; call 01484 854788 or email 

sales@hultaforsgroup.co.uk 

ON THE LOOKOUT FOR AMBASSADORS 

Are you interested in testing a wide range of products from market leader WernerCo? If so, you could 

become one of five Werner Approved ambassadors who will be asked to put a whole range of Werner 

products to the test, and provide expert and honest product reviews. 

The five successful individuals will receive a supply of the latest products from WernerCo, in addition to 

several of its best-selling products to put to the test and review whilst on the job. As well as getting to test out 

these brand-new products before anybody else, the Werner Approved Ambassadors will also take part in 

marketing activity for WernerCo, featuring in social media content and photography, providing an opportunity to promote their own skills and businesses. 

Joanne Mitchell, Head of Marketing at WernerCo, commented: “We are excited to begin the search for our very first team of Werner Approved 

Ambassadors. To fully represent the wide range of applications that our products can be used for, we’re looking forward to appointing Ambassadors from 

a variety of different trades such as builders, electricians, plumbers and decorators.” 

Find out more info about how to apply in the news section at www.wernerco.co.uk 

A FOCUS ON FALL PROTECTION 

Newly released Toolbox Talks, designed to share specific safety messages on work sites, are now 

available from the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF). They are two short presentations 

aimed at explaining the use of personal fall-prevention equipment (PFPE) when using Mobile 

Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) and what to look for when checking PFPE before use. 

IPAF’s Andy Access posters and Toolbox Talks are 

available free to download from 

The presentations are available in English with other languages to follow soon. They add to the existing 

www.ipaf.org/AndyAccess and 

suite of Toolbox Talks, which supplement the simple safety messages contained in the popular series of www.ipaf.org/toolboxtalks. 

Andy Access posters for work sites. The Toolbox Talks can be found on the IPAF website at www.ipaf.org/toolboxtalks with IPAF’s Andy Access posters at 

www.ipaf.org/AndyAccess. All are free to download and available to users of MEWP or Mast Climbing Work Platform (MCWP) equipment. 

Peter Douglas, CEO & MD of IPAF, said: “These Toolbox Talks are already being used enthusiastically by managers and supervisors on a whole range of 

sites. They are a simple way for employers to get simple safety messages across. IPAF is committed to delivering a range of Toolbox Talks to complement 

the Andy Access series of posters and all are free for anyone to download.” www.ipaf.org 


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From the publishers of

STOCK 

AVAILABLE! 

Nothing puts the 

wind up a Viking 

When you’ve got a name to live up to, the small matter of strong prevailing winds is no problem. 

New Protect Viking Air is the only air open and vapour permeable roofing underlay rated for wind 

Zones 1-4 * at 345mm batten gauge to BS 5534, without the need for an extra counter batten 

or integrated tape. That means you can specify it with complete confidence, ensuring wide 

coverage across the UK and throughout Ireland. 

As the latest addition to the wider Glidevale Protect family of class leading pitched roofing 

products, Viking Air adds even more flexibility to our total solution of underlay options. So 

whatever system you choose, you’ll know you’ve got it covered. 

Visit: protectmembranes.com/vikingair 

to find out more. 

Or contact info@glidevaleprotect.com / 0161 905 5700 quoting ‘Viking Air’. 

GLIDEVALE PROTECT, 2 Brooklands Road, Sale, Cheshire M33 3SS. Tel: 0161 905 5700 Fax: 0161 905 2085 Email: info@glidevaleprotect.com Web: protectmembranes.com 

*Meets Zones 1-4 without need for additional counter batten or integral tape. Achieves unrestricted use for wind uplift - Zones 1-5 at 310mm batten gauge or when installed on sarking board.

May 2021

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