September 2021

• BS 5250 UPDATE • INSULATION TIPS • FIXINGS • AUTUMN WORKWEAR • >>>
SEPT 2021

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Editor’s Comment
MATT DOWNS
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
MATTDOWNS@MEDIA-NOW.CO.UK
07963 330774
I was pleased to hear that BMI’s Apprentice of the Year competition
will return in November this year (see page 6).
I’ve been fortunate enough to help judge previous BMI Apprentice of the
Year competitions and have seen first-hand how the two-day event, which
tests the apprentices’ business and people skills, alongside their practical
roofing abilities and knowledge, really helps them grow in confidence and
recognise that a long-term career in roofing is possible. But don’t take my
word for it, in this issue we speak to Tom Knight, who was runner-up in
BMI’s 2017 Pitched Roofing competition, about the event and his
subsequent career in roofing, and he told us: “We all got a lot out of the
competition – it really boosted my confidence, and I learnt a lot from the
knowledge sharing. I’d recommend entering to anyone.” Read our interview
with Tom from page 16.
Cover courtesy of A. Proctor Group. Hear how the
Roofshield membrane was crucial for a recent
church refurbishment project on page 30.
FOLLOW US @TOTCONTRACTORUK
SIGN UP FOR YOUR E-NEWSLETTER AT
WWW.TOTAL-CONTRACTOR.CO.UK
No doubt one area the apprentices will have to brush up on is the latest
update to BS 5250. With the recent changes in mind, Technical Roofing
Consultant John Mercer addresses some of the more frequent
condensation-related issues he sees on projects on page 24, whilst
Marley’s Stuart Nicholson provides his eight steps to help contractors
reduce moisture risk in pitched roofs on page 26.
Elsewhere in this issue, Tanya Cooper discusses developments within the
NFRC Competent Person Scheme (page 22); this month’s QI column focuses
on adhesive bonding of insulation boards (page 67); and Rob Firman outlines
all you need to know about inverted roof correction factors on page 68.
So read on for all this and much more...
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Matt
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Contents
3 KEY FEATURES
16
16 A KNIGHT ON THE TILES
Following the news that BMI’s Apprentice of the
Year competition will return in November, we
caught up with Tom Knight, runner-up in 2017,
to hear how his roofing career has developed
24 PERFECTLY PITCHED
Technical Roofing Consultant John Mercer
discusses some of the more regular
condensation-related issues he comes across
following the latest update to BS 5250
54 INVESTMENT GAINS
With news of EJOT’s major investment at its UK
HQ, production and logistical facility near
Leeds, Robert Hardstaff outlines the benefits
this will bring to the company and customers
54
FURTHER READING
14 TIMBER FRAME INSULATION
Bradley Hirst of Knauf Insulation provides his top tips for
insulating a timber frame application in our latest column
56
26 REDUCING MOISTURE RISK
Marley’s Stuart Nicholson outlines what contractors
should do to minimise moisture risk in pitched roofs
44 THE RIGHT FLOW
Brian Bell of Marley Alutec addresses the key
considerations to ensure effective flat roof drainage
56 PROJECT FOCUS: FACADE
Schackerley and Keyclad collaborated on the facade
element of a large student accommodation project
62 CONTROLLING COMPLEXITIES
Vivalda Group advises contractors to engage experienced
suppliers when working on cladding remediation projects
76 AUTUMN COLLECTION
Peter Dumigan says when it comes to workwear, fabric
performance and sustainability are key considerations
4 TC SEPTEMBER 2021

REGULARS
22 NFRC ROOFING FOCUS
Tanya Cooper, Managing Director of NFRC CPS,
discusses her future plans for the roofing
competent person scheme
60 TOTAL TALK: TRUMPF
John Roche discusses the history of TRUMPF,
the machinery and tools specialist’s progress
in the cladding and facade sector, as well as
challenges and opportunities within the market
67 QI BY QI COLUMN
The experts at QI address the key points when
adhesive bonding insulation boards
68 ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW...
about inverted roof correction factors; Rob
Firman of Polyfoam XPS outlines the key points
INDUSTRY NEWS
06 APPRENTICES ASSEMBLE
BMI has announced the return of its renowned
Apprentice of the Year competition – find out more!
12 RUSSELL REACTS TO DEMAND
The manufacturer has invested in two new curing
chambers to increase capacity on concrete hand fittings
SECTIONS:
TOTAL
ROOFING
24
TOTAL
CLADDING
54
TOTAL
INSULATION
66
VEHICLES, TOOLS
& WORKWEAR
06
76
SEPTEMBER 2021 TC 5

Industry News
More news, updates and interviews at www.total-contractor.co.uk
DISTRIBUTION
CHALLENGES
Haulage and distribution are the biggest
concerns referenced in the latest
Construction Availability Statement from
John Newcomb, CEO of the Builders
Merchants Federation and Peter
Caplehorn, CEO of the Construction
Products Association, co-chairs of the
CLC’s Product Availability working group.
Writing on the CLC’s website, they explained:
“Although the overall supply situation has not
changed substantially, there has been a
temporary easing this month, most probably
due to a combination of the holiday period
and some domestic customers delaying or
cancelling projects due to higher costs or
cost uncertainty.
“Timber, cement, roofing products, bricks,
blocks, insulation, steel and cable
management systems remain the products in
shortest supply, while global shortages of
semi-conductors are a cause for concern in
the lighting and appliance sectors. Although
product and material price inflation has
slowed, indications are that it will be 2022
before prices stabilise, with some
manufacturers still to implement double digit
price increases to recover current and future
cost inflation.
“Haulage, however, and the lack of
availability of drivers, are now the major
concerns affecting distribution, with some
suppliers asking builders merchants to
collect their orders as they cannot get
enough drivers to complete deliveries.
Regional distribution is a particular issue,
with some finding challenges arranging
deliveries to Scotland and the South West of
England.”
View the full article at
www.total-contractor.co.uk
BMI’S APPRENTICE COMPETITION RETURNS!
A key highlight in the UK construction calendar
is back with the launch of the BMI Apprentice
of the Year 2021 competition – one of the
leading apprenticeship events in the roofing
sector.
BMI says it actively supports colleges throughout
the UK with their work training roofing apprentices
and the contest seeks to find the UK’s most
promising apprentices, and reward them for their
commitment, ability and potential.
The BMI Apprentice of the Year stands out from
other competitions because of its focus on the
business dimensions of a career in roofing – for
example marketing, finance and presentation,
rather than purely tradecraft, although these
vitally important skills are not overlooked during
the two-day event either.
BMI is proud to say that previous winners and
participants have gone on to start their own
businesses, find more senior roles within the
companies that employ them, represent industry
trade bodies and even become tutors themselves.
Matt Ford won the pitched roof category in 2019,
and has highlighted the way elements of the
competition feed into future success: “For
example, one of the biggest lessons I learnt from
the BMI competition was the importance of
networking, making contacts, and having the
confidence to approach people that I didn’t have
before. That goes for everything from using
LinkedIn, to sourcing materials, to handling social
media. Through the competition I learnt that how
you present yourself is very important and how
that leads to winning work.”
This year’s competition opened on September 1st
2021 and welcomes all those recognised as an
apprentice by their employer, or those working
towards qualified status. Each year, the
competition picks a theme and for 2021 it’s
‘influence’. With this in mind, BMI is looking for
contestants who have what it takes to influence
peers and those in the wider roofing community.
Previous participants have spoken highly about how the BMI
event has taught them new skills and given them confidence.
Closing date for entries is October 1st.
Entrants selected for the final, which takes place
on the 17th and 18th November at the BMI
Academy in Gloucestershire, will receive coaching
on a range of topics including presentation skills,
health and safety, estimating and making
technical assessments.
The event is whole-heartedly backed by BMI’s
college partners and their tutors. As Alan Lander
of the South West Roof Training Group – and tutor
to many finalists – explained: “Everything about
the event is first class and we missed it greatly
during the pandemic. The experience and
takeaways the apprentices get from the
competition are outstanding. The only worry ever
is how BMI will manage to match it year-on-year
– and yet they do!”
Mat Woodyatt, BMI Technical Training Manager,
explained: “BMI Apprentice of the Year is our
chance to recognise and applaud apprentice
success stories across the country. Our
commitment to help train apprentices is
unwavering and the competition allows us to
reward those working hard to achieve their goals.
We are really looking forward to welcoming the
finalists to the BMI Academy in November.”
Enter the pitched roofing and flat roofing events at:
https://redland.co.uk/youngroofers/apprentice-of-the-year-2021
or:
http://www.icopal.co.uk/Support/Roofers/youn
g-roofers/apprentice-of-the-year-2021.aspx
Read our interview with Tom Knight, a
runner-up at the 2017 BMI Apprentice of the
Year event on page 16.
6 TC SEPTEMBER 2021

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Industry News
More news, updates and interviews at www.total-contractor.co.uk
TIME TO MOVE FROM POLICY TO ACTION ON MODERN SLAVERY
Awareness of the importance of addressing
modern slavery is high among construction
SMEs, but there is a need to move beyond policy
to action according to research carried out by
CHAS, in conjunction with the University of
Nottingham Rights Lab.
CHAS and the Rights Lab surveyed a sample of 229
CHAS member companies, the majority of whom
are SMEs within the construction sector. The survey
sought to assess current knowledge and awareness
of modern slavery along with actions taken to
address this problem and identify opportunities for
improving engagement.
Encouragingly, the results showed high awareness
of the need to tackle modern slavery, with 72% of
respondents confirming they have implemented a
modern slavery policy. However, just 39% of those
surveyed said they were conducting due diligence to
address this issue within their businesses and
supply chains and have done so for more than six
months. Meanwhile, almost one fifth (17%) of
businesses said their organisation has no
intention to carry out due diligence in the
foreseeable future, and 50% of respondents
stated that they currently have no intention to
measure KPIs related to modern slavery. When it
comes to drivers of anti-slavery action, several
factors may come into play, including legislative
and regulatory, operational and commercial, and
reputational drivers to encourage business action. It
is possible the vast majority of respondents have a
modern slavery policy because of requirements by
clients or contracts, particularly by large
organisations captured by the modern slavery
legislation. However, two thirds (66%) of
participants said they do not feel pressure from the
government and large businesses to address
modern slavery, while 67% stated they do not feel
pressure from consumers and other civil society
actors to address the issue.
The Modern Slavery Act 2015 only requires
companies with an annual turnover of £36 million
or more to report on steps taken to address the risk.
However, CHAS believes that with over 90% of all
businesses in the construction sector represented
by SMEs, supporting these organisations to manage
modern slavery effectively is vital to improving the
sector's record on this issue.
To support this goal, CHAS is working with the
Rights Lab to establish a range of tools and
resources to help construction SMEs take positive
action to understand, manage, mitigate and
eliminate the risk of modern slavery and labour
exploitation in the construction supply chain.
www.chas.co.uk
UKCA MARK DELAY WELCOMED BY NFRC
HELPING SMES BUILD
The start date for the new post-Brexit
certification rules for construction products
has been extended by 12 months.
The UKCA (UK Conformity Assessed) mark came
into effect on 1st January 2021, and was due to
replace the CE mark which had been used to
certify products in Europe, including many
construction products, on 1st January 2022.
This deadline had been seen as unachievable by
many within the sector, especially with regards to
testing capacity and infrastructure, alongside the
time and preparation required by manufacturers
and businesses to prepare to meet the
changeover.
Following pressure to push back the deadline, and
referencing the “impact of the pandemic on
businesses”, and “extensive and ongoing
engagement with business groups”, the
government has announced it has agreed to
extend the transition period for the UKCA mark
until 1st January 2023.
This move has been welcomed by James Talman,
NFRC Chief Executive, who stated: “At a time
when we are facing some of the worst material
availability and inflation in living memory, this
announcement will come as a welcome relief for
manufacturers and merchants.
“We have been telling the government that the
1st January 2022 deadline was not feasible for
some time, with many products simply unable to
receive certification by the deadline. I am glad
that the message has now got through. This extra
time will provide much-needed breathing space
for suppliers to undertake the necessary tests and
acquire the correct paperwork.
“The government should now work with industry
to ensure the supply chain is fully prepared for
the new 2023 deadline, particularly smaller
firms, so we do not face similar problems in the
future.”
The Federation of Master Builders (FMB)
has welcomed the publication of the Bacon
Review.
Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said:
“I congratulate Richard Bacon on his review
of Custom and Self Build, and urge the
Government to act on his recommendations if
we are to diversify the housing market and
meet our housing targets, we must reverse
the decline in SME house builders, who
deliver great homes, of high quality, in the
places people want to live. 56% of FMB
house builder members build only as
contractors, and the majority build to the
designs and specifications of a consumer.
The biggest constraint they face is access to
viable small sites on which to build. So I
welcome the review’s focus on the supply of
land, and hope the Government will recognise
the support that local authorities need to help
more SMEs to build.”
8 TC SEPTEMBER 2021

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Industry News
KAY ROSE APPOINTED
TO KEY IOR POSITION
The Institute of Roofing (IOR)
has appointed Kay Rose
(FIoR) as its new Chief
Executive Officer (CEO).
With more than 20 years’ experience
within the construction industry, Kay has
been an IOR board member for five years
and was Vice Chair from 2018 to 2020.
Speaking about her appointment, and plans
for the IOR, Kay said: “As a former board
member, I have a good understanding of
what the IOR wants to achieve and I am
looking forward to dedicating more of my
time to delivering these aims.
“One of my priorities is to make sure the IOR
is seen as approachable and accessible to
everyone in the roofing industry. I feel there
could still be a perception that only certain
people can join trade bodies and that needs
to change. No matter what role someone
has, I want them to know there is a place for
them at the Institute and members at all
levels are supported to build structured
career paths.
“The merchant sector is a key target in this
respect. IOR membership offers many
benefits to those working in distribution who
are regularly providing roofing advice. I want
to clearly promote that message while
enhancing the training opportunities
available to ensure everyone involved in
roofing can improve their knowledge and
career prospects.
“A continued focus on quality will also be
important to ensure the different levels of
membership are adhered to. At the same, I
will be looking at how we could make the
process clearer and more attainable.”
www.instituteofroofing.org
More news, updates and interviews at www.total-contractor.co.uk
EASY MANAGEMENT WITH ‘MY ACCOUNT’
Fixfast has launched ‘My Account’ – a new
self-service online portal which it says allows
customers to make and manage their orders
wherever they are, whenever they want.
The company says the major upgrade to its website
is the latest in a series of investments in its
‘Maximum Reliability, Minimum Fuss’ promise.
“Our 5-star customer service now extends online,”
As well as being able to order from Fixfast’s range of
explained Steve Coppins, Customer Services
more than 5,500 products, logged-in customers
Manager. “We have a ‘Complete Customer Care’
have instant access to all their account information.
philosophy and wanted to build a portal for that
With My Account, Fixfast says customers can:
online – to match the high level of service we’re
• View and track orders, including delivery status already known for by phone and email.
• Create lists of favourite items
“We thought carefully about the most common
requests we get from customers and made sure they
• Download invoices, credit notes and pay online
can access those things easily and intuitively through
• Make quick repeat orders
My Account. By automating many of our processes,
we’re able to give customers the information they
• Access technical information and data sheets
need quickly and at a time that suits them.”
• Set company permissions according to job role. Find out more www.fixfast.com
DRAFT SCOTTISH SOLAR PLANS WELCOMED
Solar Energy Scotland has welcomed
Solar Energy Scotland Chair Thomas
the inclusion of solar into the Scottish
McMillan said: “The solar energy
Government’s and Scottish Green
industry in Scotland welcomes the clear
Party’s draft policy programme
recognition in the cooperation agreement
of the important role solar can play in
The document outlines the joint commitment
Scotland’s drive to meet our 2030 climate
from both parties to confront some of the greatest
obligations. As the cheapest, most readily
challenges faced in Scotland to date, responding to
deployable renewable technology, with substantial
the climate emergency, supporting economic
benefits for the economy and helping to tackle fuel
recovery and strengthening a green and fair
poverty, it is time for the sector to be allowed to
recovery from the global pandemic.
grow and flourish. Scotland’s solar opportunities
Solar Energy UK Chief Executive Chris Hewett (pic) could see deployment increase 15-fold by 2030,
said: “Scotland has a more ambitious target on and this would deliver a solar sector in Scotland
net-zero than the rest of the UK, so we are looking proportional to what is being achieved elsewhere in
forward to working closely with the new government the UK.”
to ensure solar energy can play a full part in the
race to cut carbon emissions. The opportunities are Solar Energy Scotland says it is calling on
huge, from a new generation of solar parks, to colocation
with wind farms, large rooftop schemes target of 4GW by 2030, with an ambitious
Government to set a minimum solar deployment
and using onsite solar to decarbonise heat and Government delivering as much as 6GW over the
transport.”
next decade.
10 TC SEPTEMBER 2021

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centres maximum to enable use for leading edge protection.
Galvanised or powder coated finish. Protective mats 5mm
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Standards – Exceeds Class A EN13374- Class A; For
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All typical ladders bespoke – email
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Industry News
MARLEY SUPPORTS
MELANOMA FUND
Marley is reminding roofers of the
importance of staying ‘Safe in the Sun’,
whilst supporting the Melanoma Fund.
Daniel Redfern, Marketing Manager at Marley
said: “Contractors working for long periods of
time outdoors, often in direct sunshine and
intense heat, are at risk from sun damage.
So, with our Safe in the Sun campaign, we
aim to provide useful, no-nonsense advice to
make sure all our customers are aware of
the potential risks, and are properly
protected. We encourage roofers to cover up,
use sunscreen and stay hydrated with the
help of our Safe in the Sun kit, featuring a
Marley-branded T shirt, sunscreen and water
bottle – everything you need to stay safe.
What’s more, for every roofer requesting a
Safe in the Sun kit from our website, we will
donate £1 to the Melanoma Fund.”
Michelle Baker, CEO, Melanoma Fund, said:
“Those who work outdoors, such as roofing
contractors, really are on the front line when
it comes to sun damage, including the risk of
melanoma. Many can also underestimate the
importance of sun protection, so we’re
pleased to see Marley taking the issue
seriously, giving advice to the industry to
ensure workers are educated and encouraged
to create better habits. We are very grateful
for its generous support of our work.”
To receive your Safe in the Sun kit and
support the Melanoma Fund, visit the Marley
website www.marley.co.uk/safeinthesun
and register your details – conditions apply.
More news, updates and interviews at www.total-contractor.co.uk
RUSSELL INVESTS TO MEET CONCRETE DEMAND
Due to the high demand for concrete roof tiles
as the construction industry rises above pre-
Covid levels, Russell Roof Tiles says it has
seen a huge increase in the requirement for
concrete hand fittings.
To cope with this increase in demand, the roof tile
manufacturer has invested in two new curing
chambers as part of a wider expansion
consumption and reduce wasted heat. This
programme, which the company says enables it to means we can be more efficient with a lower
increase capacity on certain key concrete hand carbon footprint.”
fittings by 50 per cent.
By investing in high tech temperature and
With the key focus on Hip End and Block End humidity monitoring, Russell Roof Tiles says it is
Ridge concrete products – Russell Roof Tiles says able to maintain the stability required to produce
the investment will also allow it to produce more high quality products whilst adding additional
vent tiles and other handmade items.
volume to its existing product range. Dan
continued: “The investment is to address the
The manufacturer worked closely with specialist
growing demand in the current climate and to
curing contractors to design and build the two
provide greater flexibility in production. The main
new chambers which are now fully operational.
purpose of this project is to support Lockerbie to
Dan Hancox, Business Support Manager at produce more fittings but a large portion of these
Russell Roof Tiles explained: “Following our green are sold in the Midlands – so we have moved
agenda, the new curing chambers have been some production to the local area to avoid extra
designed to be fully insulated and temperaturecontrolled
units to ensure optimisation of energy
transportation costs and save on the
environment.”
MORE TO DO DESPITE IMPROVED PAYMENT TERMS
Construction firm Beard has responded to the mitigate the risk of projects running late due to
latest Build UK figures which show nearly a supply chain issues, is to ensure prompt payment
third of major contractors are paying within as that will inevitably mean better working
the government target of 30 days.
relationships with those suppliers and
subcontractors. We are all aware that construction
Mark Beard, Chairman at Beard Construction said:
sites generate a significant amount of work for
“It has probably never been more important to
smaller suppliers and subcontractors. So, if we
ensure fair treatment of suppliers and
choose to work with them, we have a responsibility
subcontractors including prompt payment of
to support them through prompt payment of
invoices, as the industry continues to bounce back
invoices. The figures from Build UK show that on
from the economic shock of the pandemic. So, it is
average contractors paid subcontractors within 34
encouraging to see that average payment times
days, which is 11 days quicker than in July 2018
improved over the last six months, even by just one
when they first started collecting data. That is
day, particularly as we are faced with the real
commendable progress but we can and should do
challenge of the materials shortage at the moment.
more to adhere to the principles of the Prompt
“In fact, it seems clear to me that one of the ways to Payment Code.”
12 TC SEPTEMBER 2021

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Industry News
NEW ACCREDITATION FOR IOR ASSOCIATE COURSE
The Institute of Roofing (IOR) has announced
its Associate Course achieved a third-party
accreditation from the Awarding Body of the
Built Environment (ABBE).
The interactive training, which is aimed at anyone
seeking to further their career in roofing, has been
accredited to ABBE Level 3.
First launched in 2015, the Associate Course
enables individuals to broaden their industry
knowledge and gain the skills required to progress
into supervisory and managerial roles.
In recent years, the IOR says the training has
evolved to meet the changing needs of the sector,
and in 2020 the course was updated and moved
to a dedicated online learning platform, enabling
delegates to learn with minimum disruption to
working patterns.
Topics covered include project management, law,
surveying & estimating, tendering & procurement,
roof safety, and sustainability.
Matthew Fry, Chair of the IOR, said: “Achieving an
independent ABBE accreditation is a huge step
forward for the IOR, demonstrating the quality of
the Associate Course and that it meets the
requirements of the sector. Learners that complete
the course can now gain a nationally recognised
ABBE Level 3 award in Roofing Management,
putting them on a more structured career path in
roofing.
“For the IOR, this achievement also brings us one
step closer to securing chartered status. In line
with this aim, we are continually developing and
enhancing the professional qualifications available
through the Institute. This includes working with
the ABBE to develop a course that would enable
delegates to achieve an accredited Level 5 award.”
The Associate Course includes ten modules with
clearly defined learning objectives, which are
individually assessed as the course progresses.
The IOR says it can be delivered in a classroom or
online over 15 weeks or over a timeframe to suit
delegates’ requirements, and all delegates who
complete the Associate Course receive the grade
of Associate Member of the Institute of Roofing
(AIoR). Members of the IOR at Associate Level or
higher can apply for the Professionally Qualified
Person CSCS Card.
www.instituteofroofing.org
KNAUF INSULATION: TECHNICAL COLUMN
THREE TOP TIPS FOR INSULATING A TIMBER FRAME APPLICATION
Timber frame is a widely used construction method, so this month Bradley Hirst (pic), Technical
Services Manager at Knauf Insulation, gives his top tips for installing insulation in this application.
1. Performance first:
Timber frame walls generally
provide better levels of thermal
performance than masonry walls
of comparable thickness.
However, their reduced mass means
the insulation you install must reduce
noise as well as meet the thermal requirements
set out in the building regulations.
We recommend Knauf Insulation FrameTherm Roll
or Slab, which not only has the lowest thermal
conductivity of 0.032W/mK of any Glass Mineral
Wool product on the market, but also offers
exceptional acoustic performance. It also has the
added benefit that it is non-combustible, making it
the safest choice because it will not contribute to
the development or spread of fire should it occur.
Always use a product designed for the application.
We are occasionally asked if Loft Roll can be
installed between studs in timber frame
wall applications. The answer is no
because it won’t deliver the required
thermal performance. It is also not
designed for use vertically, so if it is
used in timber frame walls, the
insulation will slump creating gaps.
2. Create a snug fit:
Another factor is buildability. Choose insulation
that is appropriately sized, because this will
ensure a friction-fit between the insulation, studs,
and substrate.
Rigid boards, for example, are hard to install
correctly. They are supplied in large sheets that
must be cut to size on site, but it is very difficult
to match the insulation board to the profile of the
stud. This means there is likely to be gaps that
reduce thermal, fire and acoustic performance.
Even if you do manage to achieve an exact fit
during
installation, the stud will
bow and shrink, moving away from the insulation
over time, creating more gaps.
By contrast, most Mineral Wool insulation
manufactured for timber framed walls is
appropriately sized to fit 400mm or 600mm stud
centres. Its fibrous nature will create a friction-fit
against the stud and will accommodate the
natural expansion and contraction of the timber,
preventing gaps in the construction over time.
3. Always use a vapour control layer
Installing a Vapour Control Layer (VCL) prevents
the passage of warm, moist air from condensating
on the sheathing board around the stud. If a VCL
is not used, over time the condensation can cause
the timber to rot, damaging the structural integrity
of the building.
www.knaufinsulation.co.uk
14 TC SEPTEMBER 2021

FOR SALE: CLAUDE N SMITH LTD.
A unique opportunity to own a long-established and respected Collyweston slating and
mining company has presented itself, as the owners of Claude N Smith Ltd. are selling up.
Below, Director Nigel Smith tells us about recent investment and the history of the business.
Established in 1965, Claude Smith moved
the business to a 2.5 acre builder’s yard
with a slate mine in Collyweston. In 2010
my father offered the business to me so he could
enjoy retirement, and my wife and I became
Directors of the company, establishing Claude N
Smith as a Limited business in 2011.
With our focus on quality workmanship and
materials, as Collyweston slate had not been mined
for over 50 years, it was frustrating to see the
quality of reclaimed material continually
diminishing, so we took the opportunity to utilise the
unmined Collyweston slate on our site, and gained
permission to mine slate again with the help of a
mining consultant.
As the only producers of newly mined Collyweston
slate, being able to provide new slate to customers
has opened up an unrivalled market giving us the
ability to undertake any size of roof slating.
We now have a purpose-built slate production
building with offices and welfare facilities, employ
15 full time employees alongside myself and my
wife, and we’ve completed a number of prestigious
roofing projects, and regularly won UK Roofing
Awards for our work. The nature of our business is
95% working on listed buildings which always
require a like-for-like refurbishment and the
removal and installation of both new and reclaimed
slate. This also presents many opportunities to price
for not only the main contract, but also associated
works like chimneys, guttering, lead gutters,
leadwork, insulation, timber repairs and stonework.
We are looking to sell 100% shares of Claude N
Smith Ltd. with its exclusive mining rights, staff,
stock, equipment, plant, vehicles and work. The
premises and slate production building will be on
a leasehold basis, price to be negotiated with
buyer.
The business has great potential to move forward in
many directions, whether it be heritage roofing,
general roofing, Main Contracting, building etc. The
opportunities are there for the business to build and
develop, and most importantly maintain a high
standard of workmanship and keep the art of
Collyweston slating alive for many generations to
come.
Find out more below or at www.claudesmith.co.uk
or email nigel@claude-smith.co.uk
CLAUDE.N.SMITH LTD
Established 1965 • incorp: STAPLETON & SON
FOR
SALE
SPECIALIST COLLYWESTON STONE SLATING AND SLATE MINERS
• Long-established, award winning Collyweston slating and mining business.
• Excellent reputation locally and nationally.
• Highly experienced slaters and mining/slate production staff.
• Exclusive mining rights
• Turnover in excess of £1,000,000
• Pre-tax profit 2021 - £222,978
• Business to operate from leasehold premises (lease terms/price to be agreed on sale)
• Offered for sale to facilitate retirement plans.
• Offers invited
Please contact by email in the first instance for further information: nigel@claude-smith.co.uk
www.claudesmith.co.uk • Tel: 01780 444627 • Email: nigel@claude-smith.co.uk
SEPTEMBER 2021 TC 15

Interview: Tom Knight
A KNIGHT ON THE TILES
Since featuring on our very first front cover, Tom Knight –
Highly Commended in the BMI Apprentice of the Year 2017 –
has continued to have great success in his roofing career.
Total Contractor met up with him on a site near Truro for a chat.
I remember most about the
competition is the Q&A sessions”,
“What
says Tom, recalling his success in
the 2017 Apprentice of the Year. “It was a great
chance to talk to trusted people in roofing – like
Andy King (of A L King Roofing and then President
of the NFRC), Simon Dixon and Gary Walpole
(both also from the NFRC). They have fantastic
experience and expertise to share, which has
really helped guide me in my roofing career.”
It wasn’t the only stand out part of the experience
for Tom. “The section on estimating was brilliant.
It’s been a real help to me when it comes to
quoting. The fault-finding session was also great,
especially when it comes to repair jobs and when
you’re the one that has to identify the issues.”
Prior to entering the roofing industry, Tom was a chef
after leaving college. But the pay and long, antisocial
hours meant it wasn’t for him. Having been
offered a labouring job in roofing, Tom found himself
enjoying the work and with a knack for the trade.
“I’m proud of our
website and promote
our business through
Yell – we get a lot of
work out of it”
Consequently, his employer supported Tom in his
career and provided him with the opportunity for an
apprenticeship and to become a skilled worker. It
was an opportunity he seized with both hands and
– following his training on the job and with Alan
Lander of RoofTrain in Exeter – his talent
blossomed, winning South West SkillBuild as well
as placing highly in the BMI competition.
Having qualified, Tom continued to spend time
honing his skills with his employer and broadening
his roofing experience with his builder uncle. He
then took the opportunity to start his own business,
with a newly financed van and support in the shape
of his father – a very positive time as Tom says he
“We all got a lot out of the
competition – it really boosted my
confidence, and I learnt a lot from
the knowledge sharing. I’d
recommend entering to anyone”
Tom Knight discussing the BMI Apprentice of the
Year competition

Tom Knight was runner-up at the 2017 BMI Apprentice of the Year event and has gone on to enjoy a successful career in roofing.
BMI Apprentice of the Year 2021
This year’s competition – following a break in
2020 owing to Covid – opened for entries on
September 1st 2021 and welcomes all those
recognised as an apprentice by their employer,
or those working towards qualified status.
Closing date for entries is October 1st.
Entrants selected for the final, which takes
place on the 17th and 18th November at the
BMI Academy in Gloucestershire, will receive
coaching on a range of topics including
presentation skills, health and safety,
estimating and making technical
assessments. Find out more on how to
enter: https://redland.co.uk/youngroofers/apprentice-of-the-year-2021
http://www.icopal.co.uk/Support/Roofers/y
oung-roofers/apprentice-of-the-year-
2021.aspx
was a “massive help early on”. Following his
father’s final retirement (he’d tried before!), Tom
then teamed up with mate Jack Newton – himself a
national SkillBuild finalist in 2015 – with whom he
works to this day.
Marketing gains
Once again, another key area of focus for
businesses which Tom hadn’t really thought about
prior to the event, came to the fore in the BMI
competition: “I am really conscious of the need for
marketing, and it’s something we work hard at,”
says Tom. “I’m proud of our website and promote
our business through Yell. It’s our main review
platform, and we get a lot of work out of it.”
Tom’s not wrong: his is the most, and best,
reviewed business in his category in the Truro area,
and dozens of former customers aren’t shy in
singing his praises. “It’s also very motivational.
When jobs aren’t going well or there are other
problems, like Covid, it’s a booster to drop onto the
site and read the reviews. We also make sure any
Google reviews feed into it as well, so we’re covered
all ways.”
This superb word-of-mouth and engaged approach
to marketing means that Tom has six months of
work booked ahead of him. Current goals then are
to maintain the business at a consistent level postpandemic
– and get to New Zealand.
Tom was married in 2017, and the big dream was
“I am really conscious
of the need for
marketing, and it’s
something we work
hard at”
to travel to New Zealand in 2020 so his wife Kioni
could meet up with her NZ relatives for the first
time. “We had the tickets and everything – and then
Covid came along. At least we got our money back,
and at least we’ve been able to work outdoors ever
since the lockdowns, which was a result.”
Competition and confidence
In summarising his thoughts about the BMI
Apprentice of the Year competition, Tom says, “We
all got a lot out of the competition, which was more
like a two-day course. It really boosted my
confidence, and I learnt a lot from the knowledge
sharing. I’d recommend entering to anyone.”
Contact BMI UK & Ireland
www.bmigroup.com/uk
@BMIUKandIreland
SEPTEMBER 2021 TC 17

Industry Focus: CCPI
CPA PUBLISHES RESULTS OF
INDUSTRY CONSULTATION ON CCPI
The CPA says the findings, whilst published “slightly later than planned”,
confirm that the industry welcomes and supports the Code, and considers
it a crucial step in the right direction…
The Construction Products Association (CPA)
has released the results of its industrywide
consultation on the new Code for
Construction Product Information (CCPI). The 65
page report – downloadable at
www.buildingsafely.co.uk – details feedback from
35 trade associations representing the views of
many thousands of member firms across the
supply chain, and 180 individual provider and
user organisations of construction product
information, including most of the largest
companies in the industry.
The new Code was developed to prevent some of
the issues raised in Dame Judith Hackitt’s report
‘Building A Safer Future’, following the Grenfell
Tower fire. The CPA was tasked by Dame Judith
Hackitt and the Government with tackling the
shortcomings identified in Chapter 7 of the report
relating to product information.
The consultation opened on the 1st February 2021
with an official closing date of the 31st March
2021. This was extended to the end of May to urge
everyone who had a view to submit them, and to
encourage the widest representation from across
the industry. The highly-publicised consultation was
undertaken for the CPA by MRA Research. It invited
trade associations, manufacturers, distributors,
specifiers and users of product information to
comment on the proposed new CCPI and its eleven
Clauses.
A key requirement of the consultation was that
respondents read the new Code before completing
their respective questionnaire or providing
feedback. A number of additional and insightful
comments were said to be also submitted by
provider and user organisations alongside their
completed questionnaires. The CPA says the
feedback from the trade associations was detailed,
expert and extensive, providing in-depth comments
and suggestions on behalf of their members.
The findings, the CPA says, confirm that the
industry welcomes and supports the Code, and
considers it a crucial step in the right direction,
whilst comments confirmed that more clarity was
needed in some areas of the Code, particularly
around the training and competence requirements,
and on what exactly was required to comply with
the different Clauses. The MIG is said to have spent
a further two months analysing and working
through the Code so it reflects the massive amount
of expert feedback from the consultation.
Adam Turk, Chair of the CPA’s Marketing Integrity
Group and CEO of Siderise, said: “We are delighted
with the breadth and depth of response received.
The published results are slightly later than planned
but given the importance of the Code, we wanted to
make sure all responses were included in the
analysis. Strenuous efforts were also made in
reaching out to organisations directly to ensure
everyone across the industry had the opportunity to
comment.
“The overwhelming support and constructive
feedback has reassured us that the Code is
absolutely the right step forward for the industry,
while also giving us a lot of insightful input to enable
the MIG to review the wording of the Clauses in line
with these detailed responses,” continued Adam.
“Whilst changes have been made around the clarity
and detail within the Code, I can confirm that the
eleven Clauses remain principally close to those
presented in the report.”
Peter Caplehorn, Chief Executive of the CPA, added:
“We are extremely pleased with the progress that
has been made with the CCPI and the enormous
efforts of the MIG in driving it through. I truly believe
the Code will achieve meaningful and permanent
change in our industry, providing users of
construction products with accurate information
they can trust.
“The CPA is incredibly focussed on improving
building safety and driving cultural change in our
industry. We are involved in a wide range of
initiatives to ensure tragedies like Grenfell never
happen again, and the CCPI is just one of those. An
essential counterpart to the Code is the activity of
the Working Group 12 (WG12) – a sub-group of the
IRG’s Competence Steering Group (CSG), led by the
CPA. WG12 focuses specifically on the competency
of those interacting with products and accessing
construction product information. The CSG
recognises that good product information on its own
is not enough; those that use it must be competent
to do so, to understand what they are reading and to
be able to apply the performance information
appropriately.”
Find out more:
www.cpicode.org.uk
www.buildingsafely.co.uk
18 TC SEPTEMBER 2021

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We’ve further upgraded
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That means more efficient storage,
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Just one of the changes we’ve made
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Find out more:
knaufinsulation.co.uk/the-best-keeps-getting-better
THE BEST KEEPS
GETTING BETTER

NFRC Roofing Focus
MY PLANS FOR THE NFRC
COMPETENT PERSON SCHEME
By Tanya Cooper, Managing Director of the NFRC CPS.
Itook over as the Managing
Director of NFRC Competent
Person Scheme (NFRC CPS) in
March 2021, having worked
alongside the team during my time
as Chief Operating Officer for NFRC.
Since joining, I have been focused on
guaranteeing the best service to both
contractors and clients.
NFRC CPS – formerly known as Competent
Roofer – was established almost ten years ago in
2012. At the time of writing, we are still the only
active Competent Person Scheme for the roofing
industry in the country.
Guaranteeing workmanship
Competent Person Schemes play an important
role in the repair, maintenance and improvement
sector, allowing contractors to self-certify that
works comply with certain elements of the
building regulations without having to go through
Building Control. They also provide a robust
mechanism for guaranteeing the workmanship of
the registered contractor, providing peace of mind
to clients and stakeholders alike.
For roofing, this means roofers can self-certify
that work meets energy efficiency standards
under Approved Document L1B of the Building
Regulations, where 50 per cent or more of a roof
is being refurbished.
We have hundreds of contractors using our
scheme every week, and over a year we will issue
thousands of Building Regulation Compliance
Certificates (BRCCs), on a wide range of jobs
from domestic, to commercial, to social housing.
However, we believe there are many more roofing
contractors out there who could be benefitting
from the scheme but are missing out. If you think
this may be you, I
would love to
hear from you.
I started with
NFRC CPS
soon after it
became an
entirely independently run
business. Prior to that, we co-managed it
with a third-party provider. We managed the
technical side of the programme, such as
standards, inspections and reporting to UKAS,
and our partners handled the administration, the
customer relationship management (CRM)
system and the insurance protection part of the
scheme. This relationship worked well, but since
we became fully independent at the end of last
year, we have been able to take the scheme in a
new direction.
Since then, we have designed and created a
brand new bespoke CRM system, introduced a
new interactive Contractor’s Portal to make it
much easier to manage registered works, and
have given contractors a much greater choice
over which insurance provider to choose from. Of
course, as with any new system, there are always
hiccups in the beginning, but since I took over, I
have been laser-focused on driving efficiencies
and making improvements to our customer
service. I hope contractors who use the scheme
have noticed the difference and would welcome
any feedback on how the Contractor’s Portal can
be further developed to suit your needs.
Now our new systems and processes are bedding
in, we are able to start looking to the future. I
hope to grow the scheme, ensuring a wider
number of contractors and clients know about
and can benefit from the scheme. We will be at
Housing 2021 in Manchester in September,
speaking to local authorities,
housing associations, and
developers from across the
country, promoting the scheme,
and educating them on the benefits of
using a NFRC CPS contractor. If you will be
there, come and find us at Stand F45.
Widening the scope of the scheme
We also plan to soon be able to widen the scope
of the scheme to include PAS2030:2019
accreditation. This will be known to many readers
due to the infamous Green Homes Grant Voucher
Scheme. Whilst that particular scheme is now for
the history books, there are still several
government schemes available that require
PAS2030, notably work done through the Energy
Company Obligation (ECO) scheme, Local
Authority Delivery (LAD) scheme, or the Social
Housing Decarbonisation Scheme (SHDS). Further
to this, it is likely that any replacement programme
to the Green Homes Grant will also require this. Our
application is still being processed by UKAS, but if
successful, we hope to be able to certify
contractors to do both flat and pitched roof
insulation to this standard in the very near future.
Over the last few months, I have laid the
foundations for a more improved, robust and
reliable Competent Person Scheme for the roofing
industry and have ambitious plans for the future.
If you operate in the roofing refurbishment market
and are not currently benefitting from the
scheme, you should be asking yourself, why not?
Find out more about NFRC CPS
www.nfrccps.com/
@NFRCcps
Left: Tanya Cooper, Managing Director of
NFRC Competent Person Scheme.
22 TC SEPTEMBER 2021

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EJOT® The Quality Connection

Perfectly Pitched
AN UPDATE ON CONTROLLING
CONDENSATION IN BUILDINGS
Following BSI’s recent update to BS 5250, Technical Roofing Consultant
John Mercer addresses some of the more regular condensation-related issues
he comes across on projects…
On July 31st, BSI Standards published a
major revision to BS 5250: Code of
Practice for Management of moisture in
buildings. So, it is an opportune time to discuss
some of the condensation-related issues I come
across.
During my years of carrying out roof surveys and
dealing with roof-related complaints and
enquiries, the issue of condensation control is
certainly one of the most commonly
misunderstood roofing topics I come across. I
have lost count of the number of times I have
dealt with complaints of condensation on
underlay, soaked loft insulation and soiled
ceilings. All too often, the problem is blamed on
the occupants for drying their clothes inside, not
opening windows, or keeping the house too warm;
all may be true, but these reflect actual lifestyles.
Building Regulation C2 requires that the walls,
floors and roof of a building adequately protect
the building and the people who use the building
from harmful effects caused by interstitial and
surface condensation. Interstitial condensation
can cause damage to the structure of a building,
whilst surface condensation can cause moulds to
grow which pose a health hazard to the
occupants.
Approved Document C states that a roof will meet
the requirement of Building regulation C2 if it is
designed and constructed in accordance with BS
5250. However, it is important to remember that
a British Standard Code of Practice takes the
form of recommendations and guidance, and is
not a firm specification. Alternative solutions can
be used, provided the designer can justify their
use as compliant with the Building
Regulation.
The latest revision
In addition to a general
update to all parts of the
previous version, the latest
revision to BS 5250 contains new
guidance on moisture risks other than
condensation, a whole building approach to
moisture-safe design, building context, the
coherence of design and detailing interactions, as
well as capacity and in-service conditions. It also
covers the management of moisture risks in
buildings undergoing energy saving measures.
The revision acknowledges key changes in
modern building design, such as reduced air
permeability of the building fabric and higher
thermal insulation, both of which have the
potential to increase the risk of condensation. It
also considers changes in lifestyle and the
greater use of moisture-generating appliances
such as showers and internal clothes drying.
Climate change is also predicted to add to the
moisture risk through milder, more humid winters
and more frequent and heavier incidents of
driving rain events.
The differences between ‘as designed’, ‘as built’
and ‘in service’ conditions are now more clearly
understood, as is the way occupants use the
building, which may not always be in the manner
intended, as well as the residual moisture held in
the building fabric from the construction
processes. This all means that the moisture risk
evolves and changes over time and during the
lifetime of the building, and designers are
Left: John Mercer, Technical Roofing
Consultant.
“There must
be a clear
airway from
the eaves
ventilators
through to the roof
space”
encouraged to allow for the worst-case scenario.
As well as providing guidance developed through
modelling, BS 5250 gives prescriptive guidance
based on the evidence of many years of
successful use. This particularly applies to cold
roof construction, where there is plenty of data
and evidence to provide practical
recommendations for the use of ventilation to
prevent moisture risk.
Common faults
One of the most common faults I come across is
a lack of ventilation provided into the roof space,
usually because there was a misconception that
the use of a permeable underlay means
ventilation is not necessary.
There are different types of permeable underlays,
all with their own methods of installation.
Although there are some air-permeable underlays
which can be used without additional ventilation,
most vapour permeable underlays require a level
of additional ventilation when used in a cold roof
structure, i.e. where the insulation is laid across
24 TC SEPTEMBER 2021

a horizontal ceiling.
Another common fault is roof space
ventilation being ineffective due to
the way it is installed or because it
is incompatible with the building
design or with other materials. For
example, there must be a clear
airway from the eaves ventilators
through to the roof space; though all
too often, the ventilation path is
blocked because rafter trays have
been omitted or are ineffectually
installed, causing the insulation to
be laid tight against the underlay.
Ridge ventilation can play an important role in
preventing excess condensation by drawing fresh
air in through the eaves ventilators as air passes
over the ridge. This can be particularly effective if
the residents have partially blocked the cross
flow of air from eaves to eaves by stacking items
in the loft space.
Above: Warm to cold illustration.
Ideally, excessive moisture transfer from the
living areas of a building into the roof voids
should be avoided by sealing gaps at junctions
and around pipe and cable penetrations. This is
particularly important in areas of high humidity
such as kitchens and bathrooms. Less roof space
ventilation may be needed if the building has well
sealed ceilings; BS 9250 gives practical advice
on this. Well-sealed ceilings should be installed in
new buildings but are more unlikely
in a roof refurbishment project. If in
any doubt, assume that the ceilings
are not well sealed and design and
construct the roof accordingly.
The best advice I can give is to
always follow the installation
recommendations given by the
underlay manufacturer and,
importantly, take regard of the
manufacturer’s advice regarding
ceiling types.
View John’s previous columns over at:
www.total-contractor.co.uk
Have you got a pitched roofing query or topic you’d like
John to address? Email mattdowns@media-now.co.uk
or contact John on the details below:
Contact John Mercer
www.johnmercerconsultant.co.uk
@Johnmercer3
For fu
rther inf formation
or a hire quotation call
Email: sales@co
oker
erhire.com
www.cooke
erhire.com
SEPTEMBER 2021 TC 25

BS 5250 Focus
REDUCING MOISTURE RISK IN ROOFS
By Stuart Nicholson, Roof Systems Director at Marley.
The launch of a fully revised British
Standard, BS 5250, has highlighted the
importance of reducing moisture risk and
ensuring correct ventilation levels in pitched
roofs. Previously focussed just on controlling
condensation, the updated Standard now takes a
whole building approach and has been broadened
to include other moisture risks in buildings, such
as rain penetration and roof leaks, humidity and
high levels of ground water. It also recognises
that there are differences between a building
when it is designed and how it performs when it
is built and in-use.
The revised BS 5250:2021 Standard came into
effect on 31st July 2021 and has been re-named
‘Management of Moisture in Buildings – Code of
Practice’. It reflects the growing understanding
about managing moisture and the fact that some
risks are increasing due to climate change and
improved energy efficiency in buildings, with
increased airtightness and insulation.
Excess moisture in a building can cause many
problems, not only to the fabric of the building in
terms of damp and timber decay, but also to the
health of the occupants. In fact, a recent report
commissioned by the Government highlighted the
risk that poor ventilation plays in the spread of
infections, such as Covid-19.
Pitched roofs are at particular risk of excess
moisture because the natural movement of air in
a building means moisture laden air, in the form
of vapour, is likely to ascend to the roof space
(unless steps are taken to make the ceiling, and
any penetrations in it, as sealed and airtight as
possible by following the guidance in BS 9250
‘Code of Practice for design of the airtightness of
ceilings in pitched roofs’). Even then, it is almost
impossible to create a totally air-tight envelope,
so contractors should install ventilation to the
roof void, and the batten space in the case of an
air impermeable roof covering, even if they are
using breathable underlays.
We have been warning about the
risks of interstitial condensation
caused by inadequate roof
ventilation for many years now. It
is one of the main causes of roofing
faults and call-backs for repairs. The
updates to BS 5250 are a reminder of the critical
role that roof ventilation plays as part of a whole
building approach to reducing moisture risk.
Roofing contractors should familiarise themselves
with the new guidance, which doesn’t introduce
any major changes to pitched roofing but does
give more clarity on some key issues. This
includes clarifications about the use of breathable
(LR) and non-breathable (HR) underlays, with
recommendations and figures which illustrate the
different ventilation requirements for specific roof
types and roof coverings (air permeable and air
impermeable). It also gives new guidance on the
calculation methods for assessing moisture risk
in roofs with a table for ‘as designed in-theory’
(ADT) and ’as built in-service’ (ABIS) conditions
for various pitched, flat and composite roof types.
So, what should contractors do to
minimise moisture risk in pitched roofs?
1. Follow the new BS 5250 guidance at whatever
stage you become involved in the roof design and
installation. Liaise with other specification and
construction stakeholders to ensure the roof
design and proposed selection of materials
satisfy current Building Regulations and the
recommendations of BS 5250.
2. Consider the impact of any roofing work on the
rest of the building fabric in terms of moisture
risk assessment, see table 4 in BS 5250:2021.
3. If you are working on a refurbishment project,
check the different requirements – e.g., change of
use of building, structural changes.
Left: Stuart Nicholson, Marley.
4. Also ensure you install the roof
covering and its fittings and
accessories in line with the latest
BS 5534 ‘Slating and tiling for
pitched roofs and vertical cladding-
Code of practice’, and the BS 8612 ‘Dryfixed,
ridge, hip, and verge systems for slating and
tiling – Specification’ Standards, which will ensure
the roof is secure against increasingly volatile
weather and prevent water ingress.
5. As a minimum, get a new fixing specification
for every project and ensure it is followed. Marley
can also provide full roof system and NBS
specification, which will ensure correct ventilation
levels via their approved roof underlays and
ventilation products.
6. Don’t rely on a breathable (LR) underlay as the
sole means of ventilation. BS 5250 continues to
recommend ventilation of the loft space and
sometimes the batten space, and so our
recommendation is that roofs will always require
some form of supplementary low, high or both,
levels of ventilation, regardless of what underlay
is used.
7. Consult the roof covering manufacturer for
their recommended package of materials.
Consider using a full roof system from one
manufacturer to ensure compatibility of roof
components for an efficient, well-ventilated roof.
8. For new and existing buildings, increased loft
insulation can produce a condensation problem.
Take steps to minimise thermal bridging by using
eaves ventilation, a well fitted rafter roll to stop any
insulation blocking the ventilation, and underlay
support trays to maintain clear ventilation routes.
Contact Marley
www.marley.co.uk
@MarleyLtd
26 TC SEPTEMBER 2021

NFRC Survey
MATERIAL, SKILLS & COST ISSUES
CONTINUE TO IMPACT UK ROOFING
NFRC’s latest State of the UK Roofing Industry survey points to continuing big issues for
the sector, as supply and cost issues dampen increased workloads.
The latest edition of the NFRC/Glenigan State
of the Roofing Industry Survey has shown
that the roofing and cladding industry
continued to be blighted by material and skill
shortages, as well as spiralling cost increases in
the second quarter of the year.
Prices up, availability down
The data shows four out of five (81 per cent)
roofing contractors saw a deterioration in
material availability in the second quarter of the
year, with the most common shortage areas still
being concrete roof tiles, followed by timber
battens, insulation, general timber and clay tiles.
The NFRC says every single respondent to the
survey reported that the price of materials went
up in the previous quarter, with some reporting
price rises as high as 300 per cent on certain
products.
Recruitment difficulties
The survey shows three quarters (76 per cent) of
respondents also reported recruitment difficulties
in the last quarter, up from 44 per cent in the first
three months of the year. Almost half (47 per
cent) of contractors said they struggled to find
roof slaters and tilers, with 27 per cent finding it
hard to even find general labourers. The NFRC
says the shortage of labour is also impacting
wage rates, with 58 per cent of firms reporting
rising labour costs.
The report also found:
• A net balance of 53 per cent of contractors saw
an increase in their workloads against the first
quarter;
• Scotland saw the strongest rise in workload
after a subdued performance in the first quarter
“Contractors reported
that some products
had seen increases in
the hundreds of per
cent in recent months”
of the year. Firms in Yorkshire and the Humber
saw a drop in workloads after above-average
growth in the previous two quarters;
• Over a third (35 per cent) saw a rise in
enquiries on the previous quarter;
• One in ten contractors (10 per cent) increased
their headcount in the last three months;
• Whilst two thirds (65 per cent) of members had
payment terms of 30 days or less, only 39 per
cent of these were paid within that period.
Supply chain flexibility required
Philip Campbell, NFRC’s Head of Policy,
commented on the survey results: “The second
quarter of this year saw material shortages
intensify further, with roofing contractors now
reporting difficulty obtaining a whole range of
products, not only tiles and timber but on
materials as far-ranging as plastics and steel.
Prices also continue to rise, with 100 per cent of
respondents to this survey telling us their
material prices went up in the last quarter.
Contractors reported that some products had
seen increases in the hundreds of per cent in
recent months. It is critical that clients work with
their supply chain to provide flexibility in
contracts to adjust for these unprecedented
increases.”
He added: “The availability of labour has also
worsened, with three-quarters of contractors now
experiencing recruitment difficulties. Positive
workloads have meant more firms took on staff
in the last quarter, but there are simply not
enough roofers out there to meet the demand.
Staffing has proved difficult for contractors over
the last quarter as a result of the ‘pingdemic’.
One member has told us he has lost 1,000 days
of productive hours due to staff having to selfisolate.”
He concluded: “Workloads are set to continue to
rise for the next quarter, and indeed the next year,
which is encouraging, but the industry, clients,
and government must all focus on addressing the
ongoing material and skills crisis we are
experiencing. If we don’t start resolving these
issues now, we may see a detrimental impact on
the growth we have seen coming out of the
pandemic.”
Potential brakes on the pace of recovery
Commenting on the survey findings, Allan Wilen,
Glenigan’s Economics Director, said:
“Construction continued to recover during the
second quarter, with roofing contractors reporting
a strong rise in workloads. Private housing and
commercial repair, maintenance and
improvement work and new house construction
have been the best performing areas. Roofing
contractors anticipate further, more broadly
based growth over the next 12 months. However,
the availability and cost of skilled labour and
materials will be potential brakes on the pace of
the recovery.”
Contact the NFRC
www.nfrc.co.uk
@TheNFRC
28 TC SEPTEMBER 2021

The choice for decking and paving supports
With the demand for useable rooftop space ever
increasing, Areco is leading the way with its range of
fixed and adjustable supports for paving and decking
applications. We have worked with Hotels, Landscapers,
Roofing Contractors and Builders to provide attractive
and practical solutions.
To complement our range of supports, Areco have
several ranges of Composite and PVCu Decking Systems
available. New ranges of Fireproof Self-Extinguishing
pedestals will soon be available along with Aluminium
Decking Bearers to complete the range.
With a stock of over 20,000 units, we are sure to have
the right support for your project.
Please contact Areco with your enquiry.
• large stock range
• technical knowledge and advice
• nationwide express delivery
• competitive rates
tel: 01922 743553
www.areco.co.uk
t: 01922 743553 e: sales@areco.co.uk
ARECO, Unit 2A Coppice Park, Coppice Lane, Aldridge, Walsall, West Midlands WS9 9AA

Cover Story: A. Proctor Group
ROOFSHIELD IS KEY TO
PROTECTING CHURCH’S HERITAGE
Total Contractor hears how A. Proctor Group’s Roofshield membrane played a crucial role
in protecting the future of a church in Northern Ireland, and ensuring it continues to play
a key role in the community...
The ‘world-renowned’ Roofshield membrane
from A. Proctor Group is now an integral
part of protecting the heritage of St
Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, Bangor, and
enabling it to continue to serve the local
community.
The current church building
opened in 1957, and as part
of a £10,000 Cornerstone
grant, the
redevelopment works
at St Andrew’s will
include replacement
of the roof, repairs to the heating system, and a
building extension.
Architects Knox and Markwell, specialists in
church design and conservation projects, led the
project design, with specialist roofing contractor
D. Harkin & Co. Roofing carrying out the
roofing works.
D. Harkin chose the
Roofshield roofing
membrane, which has
long been recognised
as one of the highest
“The product’s
exceptional
performance has
proven itself in the
most demanding
locations around the
world”
performing roofing membrane solutions, providing
a pitched roof underlay which is both air and
vapour permeable.
30 TC SEPTEMBER 2021

PROCHECK ADAPT LEADS THE WAY IN
ADVANCED PROTECTION FOR BUILDINGS
The balance between energy efficiency, healthy
buildings and the longevity of a building’s life is
crucial from design to construction. If designers
and contractors are to meet this challenge, a new
series of fit for purpose advanced building
materials is required.
Images show Roofshield membrane being installed at St
Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in Northern Ireland.
The product’s exceptional performance has
proven itself in the most demanding locations
around the world. In addition, its characteristics
allow even very complex pitched roofs to breathe
without the need for air gaps or secondary
venting.
Incorporating Roofshield into the roofing design
can lead to savings in labour and material costs
due to removing the need for an additional VCL.
The exceptional air permeability performance of
Roofshield means that the roof space will result
in similar air changes to that of a roof using
traditional eaves/ridge ventilation.
A unique performance characteristic of Roofshield
is its patented SMS (Spunbond Meltblown
Spunbond) structure, which allows high levels of
airflow and the transport of moisture vapour,
making the formation of condensation in the roof
space virtually impossible. Numerous vapour
permeable membranes use an airtight vapour
permeable film layer to achieve their
performance. However, the exceptionally high
degree of vapour permeability and air
permeability of Roofshield means that it can
perform in conditions in which airtight
alternatives will not.
Contact A. Proctor Group
www.proctorgroup.com
@proctorgroup
Increasingly the focus is on better insulated, more
airtight buildings, but managing ventilation and
moisture is crucial to achieving the all-important
balance. As the industry continues to grow in
understanding the complexities of heat, air and
moisture movement (HAMM) through the building
envelope, innovative new solutions have arrived.
Above: Procheck Adapt from A. Proctor Group.
Procheck Adapt leads the way in advanced
protection for buildings, providing the intelligent solution to vapour control layers.
A. Proctor Group, the advanced building membrane specialist, renowned for its high-performing
Roofshield and Wraptite membranes, developed Procheck Adapt following extensive research and
development.
Procheck Adapt will protect the building fabric from the potential risks of condensation whilst
providing the added benefit of serving as an effective airtight barrier. This variable permeability
intelligent vapour control layer adapts its vapour resistance to suit the environment, becoming
vapour tight in the winter and vapour open in the summer.
So, the membrane adapts to changes in humidity levels and allows the structure to dry out in the
summer and during sunny days in spring and autumn, while protecting it from moisture overload in
the winter and on cold, wet days.
In combination with these new advanced building materials, modelling software like WUFI provides
hygrothermal assessment and better models the condensation risks. WUFI calculations are ‘nonsteady
state’ simulations that constantly plot the movement of heat, air and moisture in a state of
constant change relative to building usage, project aspect, and seasonality.
A. Proctor Group advises its customers to use WUFI software, which is fully compatible with BS EN
15026 and dynamically predicts moisture movement and storage, as well as condensation for each
location. Using WUFI enables architects, designers and developers to identify the likelihood and
risks of condensation, and allows designs to be optimised for the longevity of the building fabric
and the health and wellbeing of the building’s occupants.
Procheck Adapt is a Certified Passive House component, tested by the Passive House Institute and
is a crucial component in protecting buildings from structural damage and achieving energyefficient,
healthy buildings.
www.proctorgroup.com
SEPTEMBER 2021 TC 31

Interlocking Concrete Tiles
TILE FOR THE TIMES: IMPROVING
EFFICIENCY AND AESTHETICS
As the roofing industry continues to experience a significant uplift in workload throughout
both the residential and commercial sectors, Chris Piper, Sales Director for Housing
Developers at Ibstock PLC, which includes the Forticrete brand, discusses why roofing
contractors should choose interlocking concrete tiles to increase on-site efficiencies and
overall build quality.
The release of the NFRC’s first ‘State of the
UK Roofing Industry Q1 2021’ survey, which
interviewed 200 roofing contractors,
identified that the roofing and cladding industry
continued to perform well throughout the first
quarter of 2021. Over half of respondents
reported a rise in workload when compared to the
previous quarter, with all areas of the industry
growing in the first three months of the year.
Pictured:
Forticrete’s
Gemini Red.
Notably, the domestic repair, maintenance and
improvement sector experienced significant
growth, as homeowners continued to utilise their
disposable income for home improvement
projects throughout the third lockdown.
However, roofing contractors also experienced
labour issues throughout the first quarter of the
year, with over half of those interviewed admitting
they were struggling to find professionals to help fill
the necessary roles required to meet the increase
in demand. Most of these roles were required for
roofing work within the residential market.
As the report concluded roofing contractors
expected the strong workloads experienced
throughout Q1 to continue for the remainder of
2021, and the recent release of the Quarter 2
report has shown these issues have worsened
still, with professionals under pressure to
successfully meet this new level of demand,
without having to significantly bolster their labour.
In order to achieve this, contractors are requiring
innovative roofing solutions that proactively
assist them in achieving a greater rate of
building, without compromising on overall quality,
sustainability or visual appeal.
As a durable and lightweight alternative to natural
clay plain tiles, interlocking concrete roof tiles
provide an effective and affordable option to
support professionals in achieving these aims, as
they significantly increase the overall speed of
installation, without requiring additional labour or
resources.
As the tiles are interlocking, only a single lap is
necessary to ensure weathertightness. This
substantially reduces the quantity of tiles
required, whilst also effectively minimising the
number of timber roof battens and roof trusses
that must be fitted. The end result is an
installation that is a third quicker to fit and offers
cost savings of up to a third, when compared to
plain concrete roof tiles. This enables contractors
to complete residential projects at a faster rate,
without compromising the water tightness or
longevity of the roof.
Continued on page 34
32 TC SEPTEMBER 2021

Specialist flat roofing and waterproofing components
CLASS
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Non-combustible, aluminium adjustable paving support
• Approved Document B compliant
• No additional plastic or rubber
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• 76mm diameter head with 4 paving
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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

Interlocking Concrete Tiles
Continued from page 32
Gemini concrete roof tiles
Equalling the same size as two standard plain
tiles, Forticrete’s Gemini concrete roof tiles are
double cambered to achieve the aesthetic
appearance of a traditional plain tile, with just
16.3 tiles required per square metre, compared to
60 standard plain tiles. As Forticrete’s Gemini
concrete roof tiles are constructed using Lafarge
Cement’s SustainaCem, they also feature
substantially reduced embodied carbon, providing
professionals with a more durable and
environmentally friendly tile that delivers
improved longevity and minimises product waste.
As interlocking concrete tiles can be laid to
pitches as low as 22.5º, whilst standard plain
tiles can only be laid to pitches as low as 35º,
contractors can achieve a faster rate of building
across a diverse range of renovation and
refurbishment projects. Taking this one step
further, additional interlocking concrete roof tiles,
such as Forticrete’s Centurion range, can be laid
on pitches as low as 10º, making it the ideal
material for single storey extensions or the
construction of porches and canopies. As the tiles
are also interlocked, they further increase onsite
efficiencies, even when working to such a low
pitch.
Above: Gemini Mixed Russet & SL8, Slate Grey. Davidsons Homes, Hilltop View. Below: Gemini Sunrise Blend.
Unified aesthetic
As both types of roof tiles are manufactured using
the same high quality ingredients, a unified
aesthetic can be achieved across the entire roof.
Here roofing contractors can choose from popular
traditional plain tile colours, such as mixed
russet, slate or red, to effectively replicate the
visual appeal of plain tiles, whilst significantly
reducing the number of tiles required. Traditional
sandfaced tiles also feature subtle colour blends
using red or grey palettes to reflect the aesthetic
of older properties, making them the ideal choice
for rural environments.
Roofing contractors should also work with
manufacturers that offer a complete and
complementary range of roof tiles and
accessories, including dry fix fittings and
ventilation systems. This not only effectively
minimises lead times, but also ensures a perfect
fit, as each element has been manufactured to be
directly installed with one another. Because the
materials are supplied by the same manufacturer,
roofing contractors can also be confident the
entire installation is backed by a comprehensive
warranty, to provide both themselves and their
customers with complete peace of mind
As the residential market is expected to remain a
strong growth area for the industry throughout the
remainder of 2021, roofing contractors can take a
proactive approach to meeting these increased
levels of demand, whilst simultaneously
achieving the highest quality installation possible,
by choosing interlocking concrete tiles and
complementary roofing accessories.
Contact Forticrete
www.forticrete.co.uk
01525 244900
34 TC SEPTEMBER 2021

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Roof Refurbishment
‘IS HYBRID TECH THE HOLY GRAIL FOR
FLAME-FREE RESILIENT ROOFING?’
Allen Coldrake, Director of Technical Services at CCM UK, asks whether we need to look
beyond traditional single technology roofing systems to leverage the benefits of multiple
materials with a hybrid approach...
For many specifiers, the process of selecting
a roofing system for a roof refurbishment is
based on what they have used before, or
the generic system type they are most
comfortable with. Cost and performance are
usually significant factors too, but there are also
wider considerations, which can, in turn,
contribute to a more cost effective and robust
installation.
Fundamentally, all roof refurbishment
specification should be about reducing risk, both
during the project and throughout the service life
of the installation. That includes avoiding the risk
of safety issues and disruption, of costly project
overruns and snagging issues, and of
integrity issues or performance
problems. Combining
technologies to leverage the
complementary benefits of
proven materials, as CCM
has with the bitumen/EPDM
hybrid system, Resitrix, can
address a wide range of
specification risk while
providing a simpler
installation with reduced
waste.
The issue with hot works
For decades, bitumen systems have
been the go-to durable and cost-effective solution
for flat roofs in the UK, and the latest range of
systems offer advanced bitumen formulations.
But the traditional method for installing a bitumen
system is by using a hot torch to enable the
membrane to adhere to the roof surface, and this
usually involves two layers: an underlay
and a capsheet. Installation teams
are highly skilled and safety
trained, but use of a naked
flame on the roof of an
occupied building – or even
an unoccupied property asset
Allen Coldrake, Director of Technical Services
at CCM UK.
“Use of a
naked flame
on the roof of
an occupied
building – or
even an
unoccupied property
asset – is not just a
risk; it’s an
unnecessary risk”
– particularly in areas of high urban density, is
not just a risk; it’s an unnecessary risk.
Much has been done to mitigate this risk. The
National Federation of Roofing Contractors
(NFRC) has issued Safe2Torch guidance,
indicating the areas of a roof where it is
permissible to use a naked flame and areas
designated a ‘torch-free zone’, where only a selfadhesive
or mechanically fixed membrane should
be used. But does a specification that adheres to
this guidance go far enough to reassure an FM,
building owner or insurance company that any
fire risk has been mitigated sufficiently?
Above: Resitrix refurb project. Top: The Resitrix system from CCM UK.
The alternative is to choose a system that does
not require a naked flame, and there are a variety
of self-adhesive bituminous systems available,
but these are usually used in combination with
torch-on membranes to complete areas of the
roof designated as torch-free zones. Usually selfadhesive
membranes require the use of a hot air
gun to activate the self-adhesive layer, so that
36 TC SEPTEMBER 2021

the peel-off film can be released
and the membrane becomes
tacky. However, Resitrix is a
single layer system that is selfadhesive
and only requires hot
air welding for the laps. As a
result, the system is faster and
simpler to install, enabling a
reduced programme, safety risk
and potential for integrity
issues.
Better together
Using a bitumen/EPDM system
not only overcomes the need for
any hot works but also avoids
the unpleasant odours associated with some
liquid systems and the plasticisers and halogens
that can leak out of PVC membranes. Combining
these two technologies also leverages the
performance benefits of both bitumen; a hardwearing
and durable material, and EPDM; a
“Resitrix offers
faster
installation
and proven
performance”
Combining different roofing
technologies on a single project
is becoming more
commonplace, but bringing
together the advantages of two
proven materials in a single
system is an even more
pioneering approach, enabling
Above: Resitrix can address a wide range of specification risk and provide simpler installation with reduced waste.
FMs to benefit from the
lightweight, robust and naturally elastic material. performance of both bitumen and EPDM with no
Easy to install, including detailing – which can be hot works.
achieved using off-cuts as the system bonds to
itself, Resitrix offers faster installation and proven Contact CCM UK
performance with no hot works and less
www.ccm-europe.com/gb/
@CARLISLE_CM_UK
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SEPTEMBER 2021 TC 37

Green Roofs
PLAIN SAILING FOR THE LINER
GREEN ROOF PROJECT
We take a look at the roofing element of The Liner luxury apartment project, where the
shape and exposed location posed some interesting challenges for Sika’s technical team
and contractor Progressive Systems...
The Liner, a nautical-inspired £35m
residential new-build in Falmouth,
presented a compelling roofing challenge.
Exeter-based roofing contractor, Progressive
Systems, assisted by Sika, took on the task,
installing a roof to withstand the harsh seaside
conditions with an immaculate finish.
Boasting panoramic views of Gyllyngvase Beach,
this latest development by Acorn Blue, consisting
of 52 luxury residential apartments, was designed
by Poynton Bradbury Wynter Cole Architects. Far
from a conventional footprint and façade, the sixstorey
‘V’ shaped building echoes the bow and
upper decks of an ocean liner, with a ‘bridge’
containing penthouses on the top.
The curved roofline is designed to resemble the
ocean waves. A podium component comprising
additional residential apartments, commercial
and retail spaces was also required.
Progressive Systems and Sika were selected for
the job thanks to their outstanding work on The
Dunes in Perranporth, a prior beachfront project
with Acorn Blue. Testament to this, said project
won the Single Ply Roofing category in 2019’s
NFRC UK Roofing Awards.
Range of roofs
The scope of the roofing works included the
penthouse roof and balconies, winged roofs,
garden apartments, roofs for the commercial
units, plant room, paddleboard store and podium
roof, totalling an area of approximately 2,300m2.
As the building would be exposed to the coastal
elements, Acorn Blue was looking for a robust
roofing system that would withstand the Cornish
winters. Sika’s technical experts
helped to create a robust
specification using a range of
durable roofing systems,
guaranteed to stand the test
of time.
This included a fully adhered
single ply membrane Sika Sarnafil
G410 18ELF, Sika Liquid Plastics
Sikalastic 625 for the balconies and
podium, and a Sika Green Roof system, to best
suit the various requirements of each area. Sika
conducted thorough wind uplift calculations to
reassure the architect and client that this type of
system would withstand the high winds.
On top of this, Progressive designed a bespoke
galvanised “c” channel detail to match the
sweeping curvature of the roof design. A timeconsuming
challenge, but one that ensured that
no direct winds would impact on the edges of the
roofing system, giving further peace of mind.
Sika Green Roof was specified for the garden
apartments, commercial units and first floor
podium roof. These roofs are the most bespoke
part of the building because of the curvature and
multiple pitches that were built on each individual
roof (created in structural steel with timber joists
and a multi-cross weaved layered plywood deck).
Due to the exposed coastal environment, specific
coastal plants were chosen to withstand the
conditions, increase biodiversity and give a
stunning visual impact.
Creating the paddleboard shape for the penthouse
roof took time and expertise. Close attention had
Left: The Liner green roof project
presented a number of challenges
for Sika and Progressive
Systems.
to be paid to ensure
the correct curvature
was being created.
However, despite the
irregular shapes, all roof
junctions and upstand
details were kept as simple as
possible to reduce the potential for any
further issues. Keeping these “typical” details
simple was key to the project running smoothly.
Steve Kerswell, from Progressive Systems, said:
“From inception through to project completion,
Sika was in close contact with us. They were
always happy to discuss and resolve any design
and specification queries. We found the field
technicians’ weekly site visit both useful and
informative for both us and our client, who took
confidence that another set of eyes were checking
the quality of the roofs’ install and detailing.”
Top job
Thanks to the impressive workmanship of
Progressive and the high quality finish of the Sika
roofing systems, the final result is worthy of
topping the very best in contemporary coastal
living. Following the successful completion of The
Liner project, Progressive and Sika have been
invited to tender on further upcoming coastal
projects.
Contact Sika
www.sika.co.uk/roofing
@SikaLimited
38 TC SEPTEMBER 2021

DAKEA
ROOF WINDOWS
ARE BUILT
FOR THE TRADE.
Dakea delivers high-quality affordable roof windows
designed to create beautiful rooms filled with daylight and
fresh air. Our windows are backed by a 20-year guarantee
which always gives our partners peace of mind.
AS COMMITTED TO YOU,
AS YOU ARE TO THE TRADE.
Find out more at
dakea.co.uk
Or give us a call
+44 20 3970 5080
DakeaChannel
@HiDakea
Dakea_UK

Daylighting
IMPROVING WELLBEING & LEARNING
THROUGH EFFECTIVE DAYLIGHTING
The experts at Brett Martin explain how effective daylighting solutions can deliver resilient
and future-proofed educational spaces that encourage learning, concentration and positive
student behaviour.
Despite the closure of schools and colleges
and the disruption caused by the
pandemic, children spend on average
more than 7,800 hours at school throughout their
education, with a large amount of time in the
classroom. Studies have shown that students felt
at their best under rooflight or natural lighting,
whilst teachers appreciate the good light
transmission, good colour rendition and good
behaviour demonstrated under the conditions
created by rooflights.
According to The Department for Education
Building Design Bulletin 90, ‘The school designer
should assume that daylight will be the prime
means of lighting when it is available’. With
daylight considered a fundamental design
criterion, rooflights can help maximise the
“The school designer
should assume that
daylight will be the
prime means of
lighting when it is
available” The Department for
Education Building Design Bulletin 90
transmission of natural light to the interior of a
school.
Partnering with local authorities, architects and
schools, Brett Martin has a deep understanding
of the specific requirements of the education
sector. Providing expert, impartial technical
advice on rooflight specification, the
manufacturer’s team has access to the widest
choice of rooflight products available, in the full
range of glazing materials. An intuitive and
experienced technical team ensure compliance
with Part L and help to achieve higher BREEAM
ratings.
40 TC SEPTEMBER 2021

In addition to new-build
construction,
architects and
designers
refurbishing and
upgrading older
school buildings
can reap the
benefits of
rooflights. Brett
Martin has offered
guidance and advice to
specifiers wanting to transform
courtyards into classrooms, provide
canopies and covered walkways, replace existing
rooflights and develop bespoke daylight solutions
for halls and circulation areas, leisure facilities
and classrooms.
Top class daylight performance
At the Tauheedul Islam Boys High School in
Blackburn, a range of rooflight solutions from
Brett Martin are helping to deliver exceptional
levels of daylight into the school and sports hall,
whilst reducing demand for electric lighting,
lowering CO ² emissions and running costs.
Built by Wates
Construction, the
three-storey
secondary school
in Blackburn
serves
approximately
800 students.
With the school
refectory requiring a
natural light source to
optimise internal
environment conditions, the
Marvault system provided the optimum
combination of light transmission, UV protection
and thermal performance, whilst having a
positive impact on students’ wellbeing. For the
sports hall, a specialist high performance glass
was required which led to the specification of
Glass Link modular rooflights. This flat glass
rooflight system maximises daylight through large
glazed areas and minimal framework, meeting
the requirement for high light transmission and
thermal performance.
Brett Martin not only designs a wide range of
systems to deliver optimum performance,
“Brett Martin has a
deep understanding of
the specific
requirements of the
education sector”
durability, safety and adherence to regulations
and standards – it provides superior technical
support, detailed installation instructions and
maintenance guidelines to ensure systems
perform as promised and work alongside all other
roofing elements.
The specification and installation of the Marvault
and Glass Link rooflights at Tauheedul Islam Boys
High School flood the communal areas and sports
hall with high quality natural daylight, and are
playing a crucial role in both the aesthetic and
thermal performance of the school.
Take a further look at this case study over on
www.roof-tube.co.uk
Contact Brett Martin
www.brettmartin.com
@BMDaylight
SEPTEMBER 2021 TC 41

Roof Access
CHOOSE THE RIGHT PRODUCTS
Tony Stevens, Technical Estimator at Bilco UK, explores the main areas that should be
taken into consideration when deciding on a roof access hatch and accompanying ladder,
to ensure it’s a safe and compliant application for the entire lifecycle of the building.
1Purpose for access Whether for the
education, healthcare, leisure or commercial
sectors, roof access hatches are required to
provide permanent and secure access to the roof
area. In order to make sure you’re choosing the
correct system to meet your project’s unique
requirements, you must first identify the main
reason for requiring access to the roof.
Is it purely for maintenance reasons? Or will a safe
means of access also be required for the regular
installation or removal of equipment from the roof?
Here you should also identify what tools and
equipment will need to be transferred through the
access hatch, or whether it will just be the
individual that is conducting the necessary work.
2Frequency and product specification
Once you have established your reason for
requiring safe access to the roof, you will
then be able to make an informed choice
regarding which roof access hatch and
corresponding ladder system is best suited to
meet the needs of your project.
The first considerations that must be addressed
when specifying a ladder to gain roof access is
where the ladder will be mounted, and the
requirement of any additional safety elements to
ensure the continued safety of the individual
when using the system. If a ladder is to be
mounted externally to gain access to a roof, it
must be fitted with a safety cage and guard rail to
ensure safe and secure access.
For a small roof access hatch, such as the Bilco
E-50TB, which has internal dimensions of 915mm
x 915mm, a fixed vertical ladder should be
chosen. This type of ladder is also the most
suitable option for projects where space is limited.
In this instance, a retractable ladder
would not be recommended, as
the ladder angle would hinder
easy access as an individual
moved closer to the hatch.
However, retractable ladders are
ideal for use in areas including
schools and hospitals where the roof
hatch is larger, at around 1500 mm in size and the
floor area must be kept clear at all times.
To ensure easy and safe access, a minimum head
clearance of 120mm is required, whilst the
maximum single climb should be no more than
three metres, in accordance with BS4211-7.2.
If access to the roof is required on a regular basis
for professionals that will have to transfer tools and
equipment through the hatch, a Fixed Staircase Roof
Access Hatch, also known as a Service Stair Roof
Access Hatch, should be specified with a
Companionway Ladder or a Fixed Staircase. The
companionway ladder is a 75 degree angled, rigid
ladder, which provides permanent access to a roof
hatch of up to 2440mm.
It should here be noted that the roof hatch must be
sufficient to maintain a head clearance of 2000mm,
as detailed in Building Regulations Part K.
When specifying a retractable ladder, it is
essential that you know the height of the space
between the ceiling and the roof, more commonly
known as the roof void. This is to ensure the
ladder box liner will fit inside the space once
retracted. Calculating the height of the floor to the
underside of the roof access hatch should also be
done at the initial stages to ensure the ladder
isn’t too short or long.
Regardless of the size of the roof access hatch,
the system should be operated easily and safely
with one hand, in accordance with
the requirements outlined within
the Manual Handling
Regulations, enabling the
individual to maintain three
points of contact with the fixed
ladder.
During the installation process, the ladder
must be positioned opposite the hinge to ensure
safe and unobstructed access.
3Bespoke requirements To ensure the
criteria is successfully met, consideration
should be given to the wider options
available for both the roof access hatch and
corresponding ladder.
For example, ladders that are supplied with
relevant fire ratings and available with vertical
backboards that include steps and a handrail for
enhanced safety and security should also be
considered to meet relevant building regulations.
Increased access opening sizes or double leaf
configurations should also be explored where
access is required for larger items of equipment
or tools. Motorised options also allow the
individual to safely maintain contact with the
ladder when entering or exiting the hatch.
Regardless of the project type, all installations
should be subject to individual Risk
Assessments. Comprehensive training should
also be provided for all professionals, supported
by Method Statements regarding safe and correct
use of the access solutions installed.
Contact Bilco UK
www.bilcouk.co.uk
@bilcouk
42 TC SEPTEMBER 2021

All our fixed vertical
ladders are
manufactured in-house
in the UK and conform
to BS EN 131-2,
BS ISO 1412-4
and BS 4211
For industrial fixed, retractable or
companionway ladders we have the answers.
Our range of aluminium or galvanised steel ladders are
manufactured to the highest standards and comply with
Building Regulations for safe access to roof areas.
Detailed information on the key factors to consider when
specifying ladders along with our product selector are all
available on our website.
Given the choice, why would you specify anything less?
NBS Source
PARTNER
www.bilcouk.co.uk 01284 701696 bilcouk@bilco.com
Part of the Access 360 Division of Tyman UK & Ireland

Roof Drainage
ENSURING EFFECTIVE FLAT ROOF
DRAINAGE – KEY CONSIDERATIONS
Brian Bell, Head of Technical Services at Marley Alutec, looks at the key issues that need
to be considered in order to ensure the correct design of rainwater outlets on a
development, including the relevant standards and how best to approach calculations,
material options, layout and specification, as well as technical support.
Designing effective rainwater management
and drainage is essential to ensure the
longevity of a flat roof system and protect
the building from damage. If water is allowed to
pool on the surface it can place additional
pressure on the flat roof system, causing damage
and leading to water ingress.
Regulations and standards
Guidance and standards for rainwater drainage is
provided in Approved Document H of the Building
Regulations for England and Wales and Building
Standards Part 3 in Scotland – specifically
section H3 of the Building Regulations and Part
3.6 of the Building Standards. Furthermore, the
National House Building Council (NHBC) standard
7.1.5 also provides guidance on the design of
drainage for flat roofs, balconies and terraces. All
of these documents require that flat roof drainage
is designed in accordance with BS EN 12056-3 –
Gravity Drainage Systems Inside Buildings.
Design considerations and calculations
Decisions around the design of the drainage
system should be based on factors such as the
level of expected rainfall, the design of the
building and roof area, and the level of risk from
extreme weather in the area.
Rainfall intensity
The geographical location of the building is the
main determining factor and can be calculated
using data provided in the National Annex for the
UK found in BS EN 12056. The calculation of
rainfall intensity is based on the predicted runoff
from two minutes of a summer
storm event and is measured in
litres per second per square
metre (l/s/m²).
Roof area
The total roof area that needs to
be drained must also be calculated.
For a flat roof this is simply the plan area
of the roof plus that of any roof that
drains onto it. Also, while it is
often not factored into the
calculations, BS EN 12056
requires that 50% of the area
of adjacent vertical surfaces is
also included in run-off
calculations. This is defined as
any wall as well as any roof with a
pitch above 70 degrees.
Building life and design
category
The drainage strategy is also
influenced by the level of
protection against water
ingress that is required. BS EN
12056-3 provides four design
categories based on the return period of
intense weather events – the likelihood that a
storm of a given intensity will reoccur within a
certain period of time. This is essentially a cost
versus benefit determination based on impact
that rainwater exceeding the capacity of the
drainage would have on the building. To calculate
this correctly the intended design life of the
Top to bottom: Marley Alutec cold roof outlet;
inverted paved terrace roof outlet;
green roof outlet.
building must also be defined.
Under Category 1, roofs are
designed based on a one-year
return period, meaning that the
proposed flow rate of the drainage will
be exceeded on average once a year.
Therefore, it is only suitable where
the flood water can overflow from
the roof and fall clear of the
building. Also, the roof
structure must be capable of
withstanding the additional
temporary loading.
For Category 2, 3 and 4, the roof
drainage is designed to cope with storms
of greater intensity that occur less
frequently with the designed life
of the building as a basis. For
Category 2 the safety factor is
1.5 times the building life. So,
for example, if the building is
expected to have a 60-year
lifespan before major refurbishment,
then the roof should be designed for a
return period of 90 years. In effect there is a
theoretical 1 in 90 chance that within a given
year a weather event will be severe enough to
exceed the drainage capacity. Category 3 offers a
higher level of security and places the safety
factor at 4.5 times the design life. Therefore, with
Continued on page 46
44 TC SEPTEMBER 2021

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

Roof Drainage
Continued from page 44
a 50-year life, the return period would be 225 years.
This pic: Marley Alutec’s Elite
range; below: Roof Calculator;
Bottom: Roof outlet illustration.
Category 4 provides the highest level of security
and requires that the drainage is designed based
on the maximum possible rainfall. Therefore, even
the most severe storm event in that geographical
region will not exceed the drainage capacity. In
reality this category is only applied to buildings of
the highest importance where damage to the
building or its contents would be catastrophic.
Specification
The total rainfall runoff that must be managed
can then be calculated by multiplying the
effective roof area by the rainfall intensity. This
total can then be divided by the performance of
an outlet to determine how many are required. To
ensure the most efficient removal of rainwater
runoff, roof outlets should be distributed as
evenly as possible across the roof area.
Emergency overflows should be included within
the design of all flat roofs and balconies with
perimeter upstands greater than 50mm. These
provide an indication of a blockage or issue while
also preventing rainwater from spilling into the
building’s fabric and causing damage while the
blockage is cleared.
There are a number of different types of roof
outlet available, so it is important to ensure the
correct one is selected for a project. Among the
first considerations should be the material. Metal
products, especially those manufactured from
marine grade aluminium will offer greater
longevity and durability compared with PVC
products. This is especially important where the
flat roof will be accessed regularly, such as for
maintenance of roof top equipment. Any
deterioration of, or damage to, the outlet will
impact the performance of the rainwater system.
Furthermore, not all outlets will be compatible
with every flat roof system build up or membrane,
and utilising an unsuitable product may mean
that it does not form a watertight seal with the
roof. The simplest approach is to seek outlet
products, such as the Marley Alutec Elite range,
that have been engineered for
universal fitting with all types
of system. It is also essential
to select products that have
been rigorously tested, ideally
with water depths well beyond
the expected real world conditions,
to ensure an effective seal with the roof
membrane.
The drainage performance of the
outlet is also important as
products with higher flow rates
mean that the total number
can be reduced. This, in turn,
reduces the complexity of the
pipework design as well as the
costs. Accessories such as anti-vortex
grates can help maximise the functional capacity
of the pipe by preventing air being trapped by the
swirling water during peak run-off times.
Technical support
Leading manufacturers can provide technical
guidance on rainwater calculations as well as the
design and specification of drainage for flat roofs.
For example, at Marley Alutec we have created an
online flat roof drainage tool, which can be used
to calculate the number of outlets required based
on location and specification, as well as confirm
product suitability to ensure full compliance with
BS EN12056-3.
Finally, due to the importance
of effective drainage to the
longevity of the building it is
important to ensure the correct
design is maintained throughout
the process, and that accurate
information is available for building owners
and managers to use. Therefore, it is
advisable to select a supplier
that can offer full Building
Information Modelling (BIM)
support for its products.
Ensuring effective and
compliant flat roof drainage is
complex and requires a wide range of
factors to be considered, both in the calculation
of requirements and in product selection. The
correct drainage strategy and choice of high
quality roof outlets can minimise future issues
with the flat roof and protect the building from
water ingress.
To find out more about Marley Alutec’s Elite outlet
range, access online drainage calculators, or to
discuss any requirements, use the details below:
Contact Marley Alutec
www.marleyalutec.co.uk
projects@marleyalutec.co.uk
46 TC SEPTEMBER 2021

Technical support
Roofing experts on-hand to offer help and advice
Assured standards
Meets all British Standards and regulations
High-quality components
Tested for maximum performance, meaning no call backs
Estimates & fixing specs on demand
We’ll help you create them on site and on the go
Comprehensive roof solution
Easy installation with tried and tested compatible components
Need a complete
roof system?
We’ve got you covered.
With all elements brought together from a single
source, you can be confident that everything
will work together perfectly – and that high
performance is all backed up with a 15-year
system guarantee. Find your peace of mind.
marley.co.uk/roofsystem

Roofing Updates
For further info on all these updates and more, visit www.total-contractor.co.uk
GO GREEN WITH SIKA!
Sika has launched a complete Green Roof The new systems are manufactured in the UK and
package, supplying both the high
are available in three of the most common green
performance roof waterproofing system and roof types – extensive, intensive and biodiverse.
the green roof system, all backed by its
Sika not only supplies all the materials required for
trusted technical and application support.
the whole green roofing project, it also lends its
Specifiers can now go to Sika’s roofing experts for invaluable expertise and support throughout. The
the full spectrum of roofing technologies, from hot Sika Roofing team are on hand to aid with initial
melt structural waterproofing and reinforced design, technical calculations and specification
bituminous membranes, to single ply and coldapplied
liquid membranes, depending on what is sign off.
through to installation, site inspections and final
best for the project in question, all of which can
Sarah Peake, Sika’s Sustainability Manager, said:
now be laid with a Sika Green Roof system on top.
“The construction of new buildings can play a huge
role in contributing to the world’s sustainability
targets and green roofs are part of the solution. The
fact that the green roof market is growing by
approximately 17 per cent per year speaks for
itself. Thanks to its numerous eco-benefits, a Sika
Green Roof can help architects hit sustainable
development targets and achieve an improved
rating from schemes such as BREEAM and WELL,
which are instrumental in helping us build for a
better future.” www.sika.co.uk/roofing
NEW ROOFLIGHT GUIDE FROM NARM
NARM, the National Association of Rooflight Manufacturers, has published an updated version of its Quickguide 08,
entitled ‘Understanding CWCT Classifications of Rooflight Types’.
The CWCT’s (Centre for Window & Cladding Technology) tests for non-fragility comprise soft body and hard body impact
tests, as well as a load retention test. They are intended to identify what glass size and type of rooflight can be deemed
safe for anyone that might be working on or adjacent to the glass from outside, as well as protect anyone that may be
below the glass. There are four classifications assigned by the CWCT standards. These are classes 0, 1, 2 & 3. Simple
descriptions of the classifications and applications relevant to them are provided in the document. Stuart Middle,
NARM’s Technical Committee Chairman, said: “Recent developments in glass rooflight design, including the rise in popularity
of so-called ‘walk-on’ rooflights, have led to a degree of confusion around their specification. This document has been produced to provide a quick
overview to help specifiers avoid potentially dangerous mistakes.”
NARM Quickguide 08 is available from the NARM website, together with a wide range of other technical documents covering different aspects of rooflight
specification. www.narm.org.uk
SUPPLY CHAIN GOLD FOR RUSSELL
As part of its ongoing commitment to sustainability, Russell Roof Tiles has recently been awarded Gold status by the
Supply Chain Sustainability School (SCSS).
The pioneering pitched roof tile manufacturer previously held the Silver award and has worked with the organisation since
the early days of its inception. Launched in 2012, the Supply Chain Sustainability School is a multi-award-winning initiative which represents a common
approach to addressing sustainability within supply chains. With over 50,000 users, the school provides free practical learning and support for the UK
built environment, through sustainability training, networking, e-learning modules, tailored assessments, and online resources. The aim of the
organisation is to provide upskilling for those working within, or aspiring to work within, the built environment sector. The school covers all aspects of the
built environment, and focuses on five main topics: sustainability, offsite, BIM, Lean construction and management. Mark Parsons, Technical Director,
explained: “Described by the school as an ‘Outstanding Achievement’, our SCSS Gold Status is the highest level we can achieve and is a key
accreditation, acknowledging our work with major national house builders and construction companies.” The SCSS is part-funded by CITB and other
industry Partners, where resources are shared to inspire the UK built environment to drive positive change. www.russellrooftiles.com
48 TC SEPTEMBER 2021

Roofing Updates
For further info on all these updates and more, visit www.total-contractor.co.uk
FLAT ROOFING GUIDE
A comprehensive specifier’s guide to fire
safety standards in flat roofing has been
launched by TN International (TNi).
TNi’s guide looks at the fire safety
responsibilities that key individuals have when a
flat roof system is specified and installed.
It details the background to this important issue
in the industry and explains how to interpret
external fire ratings such as BS476: Part 3:2012
and BS EN 13501-5. It also details the in-depth
process that manufacturers must go through to
achieve a Broof (t4) fire rating and provides
advice on how to interpret these fire test results.
As well as exploring the various considerations
with both warm and inverted roofs, the guide
advises on the fire ratings for terraces and
balconies, the latter requiring construction to BS
8579:2020. It also examines how the latest cap
sheets incorporate innovative graphite technology
which help prevent the spread of flames on a roof.
TNi’s guide concludes by offering five key tips to
specifiers who are assessing the fire credentials
of a particular system, and warns that some
manufacturers only have fire test data showing
one thickness, such as 120mm PIR, which
means the data can be rejected if the insulation
thickness required is different.
A handy selection guide to specifying Broof (t4)
flat roofing systems is then provided to help
simplify the specification process further.
Email info@tnroofingsystems.com for a copy.
NEW TOP TIPS GUIDE FROM DAKEA
Dakea says it is dedicated to giving merchants and installers all the information they need to make their
business a success. With this in mind, the company runs a monthly Trade Matters campaign offering
installers and homebuilders expert advice.
Dakea’s latest Trade Matters downloadable factsheet is a compilation of top tips for professionals from Paul
Edwards, Dakea’s Area Sales Manager. Paul has 25 years’ experience of working in the roof window and skylight
industry and is an expert in providing sales, technical and customer support. Dakea’s free guide aims to give
installers all the information they need to ensure both a smooth installation and a happy client. The areas covered
in this Trade Matters downloadable guide include: A checklist of the tools installers need for a smooth installation;
How to ensure you pick the right roof window for your customer and project; Avoiding condensation, overheating
and leakage on your window; Planning the installation properly; The final checks you should undertake to check
the installation is correct.
Find out more and download your copy of the guide at www.dakea.co.uk
RAINCLEAR’S STEEL ‘SHOW AND TELL’
Rainclear Systems has created some great educational resources including illustrated guides and videos to
ensure “there’s really no excuse to say Galvanised Steel is too difficult to install anymore”.
James Wright, Rainclear Systems’ Sales Manager, explained: “It’s so frustrating to hear customers telling you that
their builder has tried to talk them out of using Galvanised Steel guttering and tried to persuade them to allow them to install plastic instead. The G20,
the Government and Greta are encouraging us all to go carbon neutral and to choose sustainable products, to opt for recyclable and ‘cradle to cradle’
options, yet instead of taking a quick look, and learning for themselves just how easy galvanised steel gutters are to install, these builders are pushing
back against the tide of progress and good intentions and – equally as important – their own customers’ wishes. They usually end up grudgingly
admiring the finished job when the customer has stuck to their guns and insisted on steel. So it’s just a crying shame they feel such an unnecessary
lack of confidence in their own abilities. We aim to change that!”
With this in mind, Rainclear has put together a number of guidance resources, including illustrated installation guides and brief ‘How To’ videos, to help
builders gain confidence when pricing up and installing a rainwater system in Galvanised Steel. Find out more: www.rainclear.co.uk
50 TC SEPTEMBER 2021

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SEPTEMBER 2021 TC 51

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.
Take a look at Knauf
Insulation’s new packaging
which makes it easier to
choose, use, transport and
handle its products
Andy Thomas, Regional Director
of Vivalda, explains why
outsourcing cladding fabrication
makes sound business sense
E
TUBE
PRACTICAL VIDEOS
INSTALLATION ADVICE
STEP BY STEP GUIDANCE
THE ONLINE
COMMUNITY FOR
ROOFING AND
CLADDING
INDUSTRY
52 T C SEPTEMBER 2021 ESSENTIAL READING FOR ROOFING, CLADDING & INSULATION CONTRACTORS

Take a look at what the
TruPunch 3000 from
TRUMPF has to offer!
The experts at
Ibstock Kevington and
Ash & Lacy explain how
to install Mechslip, the
innovative brick slip
cladding system
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
SEPTEMBER 2021 T C 53

Facade and Roof Fixings
“THIS INVESTMENT REPRESENTS A
MAJOR STEP FORWARD FOR EJOT”
As EJOT announces it has expanded its UK manufacturing, R&D and technical support
facilities in a multi-million pound programme, Robert Hardstaff, Managing Director at
EJOT UK, tells Total Contractor how this will benefit the construction fastening specialist,
and more importantly its customers...
EJOT has made a significant investment in
its manufacturing capacity and technical
support with a project that has more than
doubled the size of its UK HQ, production and
logistical facility near Leeds.
The construction fastening systems specialist,
which manufactures a wide range of highperforming
fastening solutions for the building
envelope, plus numerous other construction
applications, along with advanced engineering
fasteners used mainly by the automotive industry,
has boosted the size of its Sherburn-in-Elmet site
to create what it describes as a state-of-the-art
facility. This, the company says, has
been designed in a way that
tailors it to the needs of
the UK market, offering
class-leading support
for customer
innovation.
EJOT says the
expanded facility
will benefit from
extensive additional
manufacturing space and
40% more storage capacity
through an enhanced logistical
control centre. In addition, the company says the
new site will benefit from a state-of-the-art
upgrade to the EJOT Applitec centre which is
already unique in the industry.
EJOT has stated this ‘application technology’
facility will be unlike any testing and R&D facility
available in the UK, being triple the size of the
existing centre,
providing a
resource for
multidimensional
fastener testing
and new product
development in
conjunction with OEMs. The
testing resources will include two new
environmental testing laboratories where the
long-term performance of EJOT products can be
reliably assessed.
“A major step forward”
Robert Hardstaff, Managing Director at EJOT UK,
said: “This investment in our UK site represents a
Above: The building extension has more than doubled the size of the existing UK centre.
Left: Warehouse and storage is now three times larger by height.
major step forward for EJOT, giving us a unique
position in the market in respect of the levels of
technical, logistical and sales support we can
offer, with a strengthening of our manufacturing
base.
“Our ethos of ‘converting customer problems into
product solutions’, both reactively and often
proactively to prevent problems evolving in the
first place, requires us to have the right technical
resources and quality procedures in place to meet
whatever challenges our customers face. Our new
facilities will enable us to do this in a way that
not only continues this level of support, but also
reaffirms our unique positioning to the industries
we now serve.”
54 TC SEPTEMBER 2021

Valued in excess of £6m in 2016, EJOT UK says
the investment programme was proposed and
agreed well ahead of the implementation of a
post-Brexit agreement, supporting its long-term
vision to provide market-leading support to UK
customers, whilst creating an EJOT Group
manufacturing centre of excellence for many of
its key products in Yorkshire. The deal was
rubber-stamped by the German-owned EJOT
Group after the Brexit deal was reached, and
progress on site continued apace despite the
impacts of the pandemic for an on-time
handover.
In addition to immediately providing an extra
4,500 sq. m of operational space, EJOT says the
extended facility will create an ideal platform to
develop EJOT UK’s future workforce. It will expand
production of EJOT’s core range of fasteners,
used in both the construction and engineering
sectors, and include a new facility for
manufacturing the LIEBIG range of heavy duty
anchors. This brand was acquired in 2017 by the
EJOT Group from Finnish company Sormat.
Long-term vision
Robert continued: “The same quality
management systems that we adopt across all
EJOT production facilities globally will apply
throughout our extended factory here, which is
one of the reasons the EJOT brand maintains its
position at the forefront of its markets.
“When the Group purchased our Sherburn-in-
Elmet site back in 2003, it was done so with a
long-term UK vision in mind, which is why a large
site was chosen with room to grow. It is
tremendous to see this vision fulfilled, boosting
what many of our customers, OEM partners and
professional associations already regard as a goto
resource for industry-wide training and
meetings.
“The investment programme, however,
represents so much more than just a building
extension. It supports EJOT’s family business
approach that drives our global strategy to
continuously re-invest profits into the business
More than 15% of EJOT UK's head office staff are part of
Apprenticeship or higher career education schemes.
and futureproof our employment needs by
providing youth career opportunities in highly
skilled and technical roles.”
EJOT UK says it is dedicated to investing in youth,
with 15% of its current UK HQ workforce
benefitting from an apprenticeship programme in
various formats. These apprentices work across
different areas of the business from technical
services and quality management, through to
engineering and manufacturing. They are working
towards qualifications that are both vocational
and degree level with participants attending
college or university on a day release basis.
EJOT UK also says it ensures that everyone in the
team benefits from mentoring – one of the
cornerstones of the company’s success globally.
This facilitates the sharing of knowledge, advice
and guidance by a combination of tutors, senior
management and often employees that have
already graduated through the system to
continuously improve skills and build on best
practice.
EJOT points out its holistic thinking also applies to
the design of the building extension, as the
specification achieves a high degree of
sustainability, including a centralised heating and
cooling system and smart lighting throughout to
optimise energy use. The company says the roof
has also been equipped for the installation of
Exterior design is consistent with the EJOT brand and Group
buildings around the world, utilising the horizontal structure
façade from DOMICO in EJOT’s corporate colours.
“It is tremendous to see this vision fulfilled,
boosting what many of our customers, OEM
partners and professional associations already
regard as a go-to resource”
photovoltaic panels as a futureproofing step to
support the move to ‘green’ electricity, whilst the
final stage of the project will see an upgrading to
the original building which will include recladding
to match the new extension and be
consistent with the global EJOT brand.
With headquarters in Germany, EJOT GmbH is still
a privately owned German family business and
established its UK operations in Leeds in 1985,
but the company points out it has a much longer
heritage extending back to 1922. As the EJOT
Group approaches its 100th anniversary, it says
recent investments in its plants in Poland, India,
the USA, Turkey, Brazil, Mexico and China, as well
as the UK, ensure the business is in excellent
shape for its next era.
In addition to the construction market, EJOT
provides fastening systems for applications
across manufacturing and engineering, including
the automotive, white goods and electrical
industries. Many of the world’s leading car
brands depend on EJOT fastening systems
throughout their manufacture as they meet the
global challenges to build stronger and build
lighter.
Contact EJOT UK
www.ejot.co.uk
@EJOTUK_Building
SEPTEMBER 2021 TC 55

Project Focus
SURECLAD BRINGS THE BEAUTY
OF STONE TO STUDENT LIVING
Total Contractor takes a look at the cladding project for the Vita Student accommodation
in the heart of Leeds’ Civic Quarter, which saw Shackerley and Keyclad Limited work
together to install 3924m² of SureClad honed natural stone limestone, and 125m² of
honed natural black granite panels.
With two prestigious universities, Leeds
has a student population of around
38,000. A new development from Vita
Student provides student accommodation in the
heart of the city while complementing the
heritage of the surrounding built environment,
thanks to an A1-rated non-combustible SureClad
Natural Stone façade from Shackerley.
Local heritage
The development is located in the heart of Leeds’
Civic Quarter. Originally designed and partially
constructed as a hotel, the project was
acquired by the developer when
the concrete frame was in
progress. Architectural
and Interior Design
practice Fuse
Studios, was tasked
with revising the
scheme to create
312 studio
apartments within a
16-storey building, with
amenity and retail
accommodation on the lower floors.
Simon Clarke, Director of Fuse Studios, explained:
“The use of natural stone as the main façade
material had always been a local planning
aspiration because of the location of the building
and its proximity to heritage landmarks. The
planners were very clear that the façade had to
be genuine stone with natural colour and tonal
variation, rather than a veneer or engineered
stone substitute.
As the original
design has been
converted from a
hotel to provide
residential
accommodation more than
18m tall, fire safety was also
an important consideration of the
specification. Shackerley’s SureClad Natural
Stone is classified as A1 non-combustible to BS
EN 13501-1.
A sample to confirm the spec
The Shackerley team was able to propose a
SureClad natural limestone that complements the
colour, tone and texture of nearby buildings. The
façade had to be genuine stone with natural
colour and tonal variation, rather than a veneer or
Shackerley’s SureClad Natural Stone is classified as A1 non-combustible to BS EN 13501-1.
engineered stone substitute, providing the
appearance, texture and quality of Portland Stone,
while considering the buildability, structural
loading and cost implications of the façade.
To help gain approval from the developer and the
local planning office, Shackerley produced sample
panels at one of the company’s ISO 9001
accredited factories in Lancashire and Façade
installation specialist, Keyclad Limited,
constructed a 3m x 4.5m section of wall on site in
Leeds. This demonstrated what the limestone
material would look like in situ and how the four
standard panel sizes would be used to create
variation.
Simon Clarke continued: “Constructing such a
large area of façade on site enabled everyone to
Continued on page 58
56 TC SEPTEMBER 2021

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Project Focus
Continued from page 56
see how the SureClad façade panels would look
on the finished building.
“The sample wall area also demonstrated that,
although the panels are slim and lightweight, they
are high quality and robust, offering a long-lasting
solution with an enduring natural stone
aesthetic.”
Creating contrast
To contrast with the light beige colour of the
main limestone façade panels, Fuse Studios
also selected a black natural granite façade
material for the lower floors, in the same
‘honed’ finish.
Simon Clarke continued: “The use of the
dark SureClad granite system,
along with extensive glazing
at the lower levels,
establishes a visual
separation between the
student amenity space and the residential
accommodation above.”
Non-sequential installation
The SureClad cladding panels for both the
limestone and granite sections of the façade were
manufactured to order by Shackerley.
Peter O’Brien, Contracts Manager at Keyclad
Limited commented: “In such a busy city centre
location, site storage and deliveries were limited
so it was essential that we had the right panels
each week to keep the programme on track.
“Shackerley manufactured the panels and stored
them for us, so we were able to call off the
consignments we needed a week ahead of time
and have them delivered to site on a
just-in-time basis.”
Keyclad Limited used
Shackerley’s Queens
Award winning
SureClad Access
installation system for the project, which helped
the team to manage the programme with nonsequential
installation.
Peter concluded: “We used mast climbers to carry
out the installation and were able to work around
them, returning to the mast climber positions to
complete the façade in these areas once they had
been removed.”
A new landmark
A total of 3924m² of SureClad honed natural
stone limestone was used to create the façade,
along with 125m² of honed natural black granite
panels. The project builds on Shackerley’s wide
ranging portfolio in the student accommodation
sector, which includes a previous Vita Student
project in Edinburgh.
Contact Shackerley
01257 273 114
www.shackerley.com
“Site storage and deliveries
were limited so it was
essential that we had the
right panels each week to
keep the programme on
track”

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

Total Talk: TRUMPF Ltd.
MEETING THE CURRENT NEEDS AS
WELL AS THE FUTURE CHALLENGES
We put the questions to John Roche, National Sales Manager at TRUMPF Ltd.,
discussing the company’s history, new innovations and how machinery and software is
helping Architects and Designers achieve more complicated and interesting cladding and
facade projects...
Tell us a bit about TRUMPF Ltd. and what
you do as a company...
TRUMPF Ltd. is the UK subsidiary of TRUMPF
GmbH + Co. KG, a world leader in sheet metal
fabrication machinery and industrial lasers.
TRUMPF was founded in 1974 and celebrated its
40-year UK business anniversary in 2014,
serving the UK market for machine tools, laser
technology, 3D printing systems and power tools.
Equipped with a fully operational showroom and
spacious training facilities, the company can
provide pre-sale demonstrations and
comprehensive user training. TRUMPF also
provides its own technical service as well as
tooling and spare part management to support
customers throughout the UK as promptly as
possible.
What sort of projects do your customers
get involved with?
Above: images taken from the TRUMPF Open House event which showcased the company’s innovative offering.
Anything that requires sheet metal to be turned
into a customer’s product, using our range of
specialist Punch, Bend, Laser & Welding
equipment. This is especially relevant to the
cladding and façade market which were
traditionally guillotine, corner notch then bend,
but this sector has heavily invested in the latest
technology available from TRUMPF.
Can you tell us about some of the
milestones in the company’s history...
For nearly 100 years it has been our mission to
develop technology for production further, with a
strong focus on doing this economically, precisely,
and sustainably. TRUMPF is a family-owned
company and its customers are getting everything
from a single source: machine, laser, automation,
software, and the security.
Some key dates in the company’s long history
include:
• Christian Trumpf acquired the mechanical
workshops of Julius Geiger GmbH in Stuttgart in
1923. Here he produced flexible shafts for
attachable tools, mostly for the dental market.
• 1934 to 1949 – The first motor-driven hand
shears and hand-guided machines for simple
sheet metal processing were produced.
• 1957 – TRUMPF patented the coordinate guide
for sheets. This is the starting point for the NC
control of modern sheet metal machinery and the
first punching machines.
• 1974: TRUMPF UK was founded.
• 1974 to present – TRUMPF has established
itself as the leading supplier and innovator of
CNC controlled Punching and Bending Machinery
to the UK cladding and façade manufacturing
market, with its customer base increasing yearon-year.
Can you tell us about some recent
TRUMPF launches and initiatives…
With the change in mindset of the cladding and
60 TC SEPTEMBER 2021

façade market and the move to 3D models,
TRUMPF has invested heavily in its latest Boost,
CAD/CAM Software, allowing full assembly
models to be dissolved into individual 2D parts
automatically for manufacture. Boost then takes
this process a stage further by again
automatically creating 3D Bending Programs for
the TruBend range of machinery. Add this to the
latest range of entry level Punch & Punch / Laser
Combination machinery, Architects and
Designers’ concepts can be easily realised in
sheet metal with a few clicks of the mouse.
With regards to R&D, do you consult with
companies to find out how you can
develop solutions so they can meet their
customers’ demands and help them
overcome challenges?
Annually, TRUMPF spends nearly €400 million
on its own R&D department irrespective of profit,
and it is this thinking that sets TRUMPF apart.
The direction of R&D is heavily influenced by the
emerging markets as well as the existing
customer base, working closely together with test
customers to get feedback from real working
environments.
How have your customers’ expectations
changed in terms of tooling and
machinery in recent years?
As mentioned previously, the cladding and façade
market were traditional in the approach to
manufacture, relying heavily on a very skilled and
manual manufacturing knowledge held on the
shopfloor. TRUMPF machinery has allowed those
skills to be transferred into the office
environment, by programming the machinery offline,
minimising the avoidable errors and
maximising production with the available range of
products.
When investing in machinery and tools,
how important is it that purchases can
meet the demands of five years down the
line? – should what companies purchase
now shape the future path of their
business?
Definitely! The customer success is also our
success and we want our customers to be
capable of meeting their current needs but also to
be ready to address the challenges not yet
visible. Some of our customers are still very
happy with the machines they bought 10-15
years ago which are capable of meeting current
workloads.
How important is maintenance of
machines and tools to ensure they work
at maximum capacity? Is this something
you advise customers on?
It’s very important to keep your machine
maintained and know how to work with it – after
all, the equipment is purchased to be profitable.
We offer our customers different maintenance
plans which suit every machine and their needs,
all supported by our team of UK-based engineers,
co-ordinated from our base in Luton, Beds.
There’s a big challenge around skills for
those working on the tools and on
projects. Are you experiencing this within
the manufacturing side also?
Yes, without a doubt, and as the industry loses its
traditional skillset, it is essential our customers’
training requirements in modern methods of
manufacture are met. The machine tool industry
is becoming more and more software and app
driven, so it is important for us to develop first
class reliable software systems like our Boost
software (mentioned previously) but also to make
our machines easy to use for everyone. To
complement our range of machinery, we offer
software and machine training courses directly
from our showroom in Luton or alternatively,
customers can carry out training via E-Learning.
There are big challenges within the
supply chain with regards to materials in
construction, is this something you are
seeing and experiencing?
Most definitely and TRUMPF have not been
immune to the current climate as our machinery
is constructed from parts not only from the steel
sector, but also from the electronics sector. We
rely heavily on the global supply chain throughout
our manufacturing process and in some cases,
TRUMPF has intervened to assist in the
challenges felt by our suppliers.
What’s the biggest issue affecting your
customers?
Steel prices are currently the hot topic with the
price and availability of steel posing huge
challenges across the sector. Labour – and not just
skilled labour – has always been a big concern, as
who wants to stand at a punching or bending
machine and serve an apprenticeship when with a
click of a mouse, you can be a global “You Tuber”?
It’s been a busy time for TRUMPF with the
new launch, what’s next for the company?
Currently, we are launching our new TruPunch
3000 range of machinery which can also be
purchased as a Punch/Laser Combination. Add
this to the latest in entry level Tube Laser 3000
machinery and 3D Programming Tube, we have
exciting times ahead for the next fiscal year. Also,
we are delighted to say that this year’s BlechExpo
Exhibition in Stuttgart currently goes ahead,
where the full range of cutting and bending edge
technology will be on show, so feel free to drop by
the booth and discuss your requirements with us!
It’s been a difficult year and a half or so
for construction, are there reasons to be
positive looking forward?
Yes, definitely; with the economy being given the
injection by way of the Tax Superdeduction, there
has never been a better time to invest in new
equipment. Also, on the topic of BREXIT, we see a
bigger drive in manufacturing to back the “Made
In Britain” campaign which can only help us
rebuild a strong economy. TRUMPF is perfectly
positioned here in the UK to help its customers
grow, by improving their manufacturing processes
by way of investment and support them on their
journey towards success.
Contact TRUMPF Ltd.
www.trumpf.com/en_GB/
@TRUMPF_News
SEPTEMBER 2021 TC 61

Recladding Projects
USE EXPERIENCED SUPPLIERS FOR
COMPLEX REMEDIATION PROJECTS
Vivalda Group says it has seen an uplift in recladding projects and expects to see further
growth in the next year, but the supplier says it’s important for contractors to partner with
companies who have “the expertise and knowledge to fulfil often complex remediation
projects.”
Vivalda Group, a leading supplier of noncombustible
rainscreen cladding systems,
says it has been instrumental in several
major remediation projects, replacing unsafe
material with A-rated compliant facades.
Having already completed a dozen recladding
projects involving high rise residential towers,
Vivalda Group says it is well placed to provide the
best solution for any remediation project. Thanks
to its divisional structure, Vivalda Group can
provide a wide range of fully tested, noncombustible
branded cladding.
Alternatively, the company points out it can
manufacture A-rated bespoke cladding via its
wholly owned facility MSP Facades. Even better,
its sister company Prism Powder Coating can
provide a fully Qualicoat-approved powder
coating solution. With both businesses based
near Glasgow, Vivalda Group says this ensures
consistent quality and reliable supply.
In the case of London-based Denning Point,
Vivalda Group’s Glasgow-based façade specialist
MSP was tasked with the fabrication of precoated
solid aluminium boards. Vivalda Group
says while the UK’s Housing Ministry (MHCLG)
has been criticised for the slow progress of repair
work on high rise buildings, MSP Facades is
predicting a lot more of this type of project in the
next year.
Denning Point is a classic 1960s residential tower
in Tower Hamlets, London. Comprising 23 stories,
the building was re-clad in 2014. However,
following the Grenfell Tower fire and a subsequent
change in safety regulations, the owners –
Eastend Homes – commenced
the process of removing nonconforming
cladding material.
Recladding specialist D+B
Facades commenced remediation
work in early 2020, using A1-rated
solid aluminium panels in three custom colours to
replace the existing, non-conforming cladding.
Fabrication of the new non-combustible panels
was undertaken by MSP, who can provide either
an off-site fabrication or full manufacture and
powder coat solution.
To minimize project timescales, noise and
disruption to residents, D+B Facades was able
to utilize the existing cladding framework,
installing new mineral wool insulation and cavity
barriers before the 3mm thick solid, pre-painted
aluminium panels were fixed in place.
Gillian Thomson, Branch Manager at MSP
Facades, commented: “While the technical
demands of this project were reasonably
straightforward, the sheer volume and variety of
panels is unusual.
“During the six-month build process, we
Left: Gillian Thomson, MSP Facades.
Above: Denning Point, London project.
fabricated more than 2,100
panels equating to
approximately 2,500m². We also
cut to size and punched around 360
smaller, perforated panels, covering
220m². Throughout the whole process, we were
very mindful of reducing waste and optimizing
every aluminium panel. Utilising our optimization
software, we were able to achieve maximum yield
from every sheet of metal.
“Looking ahead, it’s important for contractors to
engage experienced cladding suppliers with the
expertise and knowledge to fulfil often complex
remediation projects. We’re aware that the
predicted demands on the industry may soon
outstrip the supply of skilled people – so our
highly trained workforce is likely to be extremely
busy for the rest of 2021 and well into 2022.”
Contact Vivalda Group
0121 328 9381
www.vivalda.co.uk
@VivaldaLimited
62 TC SEPTEMBER 2021

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ABOUT
YOU?
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CARE
www.cedral.world
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Cladding & Sheeting Updates
NEW NVELOPE NV CFB
SFS says it has launched a quick, simple, and requirements.
secure cavity fire barrier called NVELOPE NV
David Fraser, Business Unit Manager at SFS,
CFB.
said: “As one of the market leaders in subframes
Designed to protect cavity walls against the and fixings, SFS now offer an additional range to
spread of fire, SFS’ new range offers three levels support the design and installation of bespoke
of high-performance protection for horizontal rainscreen solutions. The launch of SFS’ new fire
applications, and an added option for nonventilated
vertical applications.
the system easier with our expert advice on-
cavity barrier range will not only make designing
hand, but will also ensure fire safety is integrated
Created with specialist cladding contractors and
into the SFS solution.”
designers in mind, SFS’ NVELOPE NV CFB fire
safety solution provides an appropriate barrier to Building cavities offer a ready route for the spread
meet most subframe projects’ specific fire safety of fire and smoke at any given point. SFS says its
NVELOPE NV CFB solutions prevent this by creating
an intumescent seal in a fire situation, as the
active ingredients in the barrier react quickly in fire
emergencies and provide fire protection ranging
from up to 60 minutes to up to 120 minutes. As a
result, SFS says this mitigates the issue with
alternative rubber-based fire barriers which can
give off smoke and fumes in application.
uk.sfs.com/systems/nvelope/cavity-fire-barrier
AJW CLADDING SUPPLIES SITE LAUNCHED
AJW Distribution has announced the launch of its first eCommerce site, ‘AJW Cladding Supplies’, selling all things
Cedral for residential projects.
The purpose of the site is to promote this amazing product to the end user throughout East Anglia and Essex. The
company says the aim is to provide a site to showcase the large range of Cedral products available to the customer,
providing them with the great service which AJW Distribution prides itself on. The company has developed dedicated areas on the site to provide
customers with all the information they need to make their Cedral project a success. This includes a blog area which showcases a number of posts
including how to install Cedral, how to store and handle Cedral, and a Case Study area which will inspire those looking to use Cedral on their project.
AJW Distribution has stocked and sold Cedral for a number of years now and work alongside their team to ensure customers receive the best possible
service. Marketing Director, Charlotte Woods commented: “Come and find us on Instagram, Facebook or Pinterest to find out how AJW Cladding
Supplies can help you with your project questions. We don’t just see you as a customer, we want to help you with your Cedral project. We will always
ensure we are transparent with delivery times and will always aim to include relevant information on the site to help you fit your Cedral correctly and to
ensure you choose the right products and colour for your project.” www.ajwcladdingsupplies.com
TRUMPF MEETS CA GROUP’S DEMANDS
CA Group invested in an EHT VarioPress bending machine from TRUMPF back in 2018, and such was
the success, it has now purchased the latest TruBend 3000 Series Bending Machines from TRUMPF.
Stating at the time of purchase that “service reliability and effectiveness is a key factor”, CA Group says the CA Group has invested in TRUMPF machinery.
VarioPress has not only met its expectations, but exceeded them in providing additional capacity and flexibility with no compromise in reliability. The purchase
of the next pressbrake was targeted at a machine with a specific product group in mind and a budget to be met. TRUMPF offered another customised variant
from its extensive product range and CA Group opted to purchase a TruBend 3170 with customised back gauge solution and user specific software on the
control. It was important to CA Group that the chosen supplier could accommodate specific requirements with the machine, and TRUMPF again provided the
solution to meet the needs of CA Group. Since the installation of the VarioPress, and as the control software is almost identical to that of the TruBend 3000
Series, the integration of another TRUMPF bending machine was even easier this time around, and it gives CA Group more flexibility with its scope of
production as operators can be moved across the fleet of bending machines more freely. Among the favoured features of the 3000 Series Machine was the
extended back gauge configuration across four finger stops in conjunction with a specific “Programming Bending Wizard” to match that of the VarioPress. Add
this to the fact the 3000 Series has no C-Frame, and this allows full 960mm deep bending to be done along the full 4 metre bed length. www.trumpf.com
64 TC SEPTEMBER 2021

Promoting
systems-based
solutions
www.mcrma.co.uk
For a fully integrated supply chain
using metal-based products.
Supporting
• Systems manufacturers
• Component manufacturers
• Systems installers
• Independent roofing and
cladding inspectors
• Industry support services providers
Visit www.mcrma.co.uk
to find out more about the MCRMA and its members.
The ‘MCRMA The Building Envelope Authority’ is a registered Collective Trademark of the Metal Cladding and Roofing Manufacturers Association Limited.

PIR Insulation
HOW TO AVOID CAVITY
WALL INSULATION ISSUES
By Simon Blackham, Technical Manager at Recticel Insulation.
Poorly fitted insulation in wall cavities can
lead to a whole host of problems which
prove time consuming and costly to
correct. Cold spots are a common outcome
caused by the errant practice, which in-turn can
lead to damp and moisture seeping into the
building’s fabric. When this occurs, the occupiers’
comfort and wellbeing could be compromised by
instances of mould and bacterial growth, whilst
the property’s thermal performance risks being
debilitated to create a less than ideal indoor
environment. So how can such issues
be avoided?
No matter the quality of
insulation, if it is not installed
correctly or suitable for the job in
hand, its effectiveness will be
nullified. This could also be the
outcome if the material is damaged,
ancillary items such as wall ties penetrate the
insulation, or if the ties are sloping incorrectly
towards the inner leaf. An easy issue to avoid at
the installation stage is cavity ties becoming
blocked with mortar ‘snots’ and bridging the
residual clear cavity. Ties, when sloping
outwards, will ordinarily return moisture to the
building’s exterior leaf via cavity trays which have
weep vents to facilitate the moisture’s escape.
However, when the trays themselves are also
blocked by debris such as brick ends, trapped
moisture may then seep back onto the inner wall,
eventually leading to damp spots and damage to
the internal fabric.
Another link between poor installation practice
and performance is forged with bad detailing at
vital junctions, weep vents and cavity trays.
Equally, good care should be taken to provide a
thermal seal for cavity wall openings within the
Left: Simon Blackham. Above: Recticel offers a number of high performance insulation solutions.
construction, such as flues
and ventilation outlets, and
around window and door
reveals. Large gaps between
insulation are also to be avoided to
optimise protection against damp and heat loss.
In terms of specification, issues are likely to
occur if partial-fill insulation is used as a full-fill
insulation without the necessary residual cavity
(conventionally, 50mm with partial fill). If this
occurs, the reduced clear cavity and the
insulation board’s straight edge risks allowing
moisture to more readily track the cavity and
result in wind-driven rain reaching the inner leaf.
Tackling the issues
Good practice should include operatives
familiarising themselves with the installation
requirements of each product, and obtaining
installation instructions from the insulation
manufacturer. It’s also advised to refer to thirdparty
guidance and certification such as the
BBA certificate, best practice guides from
bodies such as the NHBC, and any building
regulation documentation e.g. Approved
Document C (England).
During the installation’s initial stage,
consideration should be given to material
tolerances to ensure the required residual cavity
width can be maintained. This may mean slightly
increasing the building footprint during the
preparation and “setting-out” process. The site’s
surrounding environment should also be taken
into account, as the insulant’s suitability can
depend on a site’s exposure to wind-driven rain.
This will also help decide requirements such as
mortar jointing and detailing, and any additional
waterproofing of the external leaf, as well as
minimum residual cavity thickness.
Installation issues aside, good management is a
precursor to successful project completion. This
includes avoiding damage to insulation materials
by ensuring they are protected and stored
correctly at all times on site. Additionally,
ensuring that walls are protected from the
elements during operational downtimes will
prevent a work programme being delayed due to
issues with damp or frost.
66 TC SEPTEMBER 2021

Quality must not be lost with desire to ‘build, build, build’
Through its development of thermally-efficient insulation products and its
continued membership of the National Home Improvement Council (NHIC)
which promotes the benefits of safe, sustainable homes, Recticel has
demonstrated a commitment to improving the energy performance of the
nation’s housing stock. Last year, Boris Johnson urged the country to
‘build, build, build’ its way out of a projected recession in the wake of the
coronavirus pandemic. Building for build’s sake, however, could lead us to
constructing ourselves a retrofit nightmare further down the line.
Quality must not be dispensed in favour of numbers, lest we forget that the
reason the NHIC was set up nearly 50 years ago was to improve living
standards and reduce fuel poverty amongst cash-strapped households. To
our shame it’s a problem that’s as prevalent today, with far too many
residents struggling to pay fuel bills that have been inflated by their
property’s poor energy performance. Therefore, for the sake of occupants’
quality of life, the environment, and the government’s net-zero ambitions
for 2050, the construction industry must support the NHIC in its continued
call to improve building standards in order to provide better social and
private housing throughout the UK. With the clock already ticking on that
mid-century deadline, the time for sharpening up all aspects of building
delivery is now.
Recticel’s quality polyisocyanurate (PIR) range
Recticel has a range of full and partial-fill PIR solutions to suit a variety of
application requirements. Experts in innovation, Eurowall+ offers a fine
example of how we’ve been able to develop a system that benefits the
installer and end user. The rigid full-fill insulation board was the first of its
kind to feature a tongue-and-groove joint on all four edges, thus making it
capable of achieving a U-value of 0.18 W/m2K in a traditional 100mm
masonry cavity wall. Its beneficial size, coupled with its improved
airtightness from the tongue and groove joint, extracts more performance
compared to typical partial-fill solutions, without widening the footprint of
the external wall.
Our 90mm Eurowall+, when installed within a 100mm masonry cavity
wall, means the 10mm clear cavity is maintained and traditional
bricklaying methods can be followed. This leads to reduced labour times
and a cost-effective installation.
Due to its ingenious composition, Eurowall+ eliminates many of the
potential issues associated with installing insulation. It makes lighter work
of an extremely important process, whilst delivering a quality product with
reliable long-term performance.
(QUITE INTERESTING)
INSULATION FA
ACTS
By QI (Quantum Insulation Ltd)
Adhesive bonding of
insulation boards
Through this column we have talked a lot about the requirements for inverted
roofs, so, Dear Reader, you would be forgiven for thinking that QI only supply
insulation board for inverted roof
applications: an understandable misconception.
Our focus on inverted roof applications has been, and will continue to be,a regular
feature of
this column clarifying the correct design, function and assembly of
an
inverted roof; but we don’t want you all thinking we are a one trick pony,
so we
thought we would take a look at warm roof
construction.
BS 8217:2005
covers various bond strengths depending upon substrate type and whether
controlled partial bond or full bond. Since this British Standard was published
and bond strengths of up to 10 kN/m 2 compared to 3.6 kN/m 2 for bitumen.
However, there are factors that the contractor needs to be aware of.
MCP’s generally come in 2 types, ‘free pour’ and ‘controlled rise’
Free Pour: typically a rectangular 6.5 kg tin covering up to 60m 2 . To use
remove the lid and puncture a hole in the bottom. The liquid adhesive is
applied
a continuous 10mm to 20mm bead in an ‘S’ pattern at 150m or
the
moisture in the air. A simple process but there are some considerations:
1. The insulation board should not be larger than 2.88m 2 .
2.
Insulation should be applied within 5 minutes.
Full cure takes up to 6 hours.
3. Consistent application is key; a thicker bead risks the adhesive not fully curing
in the centr e and outgassing CO 2 over time, lifting the insulation boards.
4. If applying a carrier layer over the insulation on small roof areas/balconies,
bead thickness is critical and applying extra adhesive is to be avoided, see
3 above.
5. Disposal requires the can to be empty except for a skin of adhesive, or to be
left for the contents to fully cure.
Controlled Rise: a pressur container that contain the adhesive
already
foamed. A hose and ‘wand’ are attached to the container. The tap
on the container is opened, adhesive comes out in a 19mm to 25mm bead
applied in an ‘S’ pattern at 300mm centres. Coverage is up to 100m 2 . One
advantage
Application is again simple but also with its considerations:
1. The insulation board should not be larger than 2.88m 2 .
2. Insulation should be applied within 5 mins. Full cure takes 20 to 40 mins.
3. Wands and hoses need cleaning or replacing.
4. Any residual material at end of use should be sprayed into a cardboard box
and left 24 hours to cure, it is then non-hazardous waste.
5. Cylinders need to be de-pressurised for disposal, which is simply done by
following the instructions. After 1 week the cylinder is metal waste.
Next month’ ’s QI by QI –
Compliance &
Accr reditation,
do they matter?
ter?
Contact Recticel Insulation
www.recticelinsulation.com/en-gb/home
@RecticelInsulUK
SEPTEMBER 2021 TC 67

All You Need to Know About:
INVERTED ROOF
CORRECTION FACTORS
Designers and installers of flat roofing solutions are often told what they ‘should’ know
about products and standards. In this ongoing series, Rob Firman of Polyfoam XPS looks at
different aspects of flat roofing design and construction and helps to demystify them. This
month he looks at correction factors applied to U-value calculations for inverted flat roofs.
How can moisture affect inverted roof
performance?
Calculation of the thermal transmittance
(U-value) of an inverted flat roof accounts for the
effect of moisture through two corrections. The
first is any change to the insulation’s thermal
conductivity due to moisture absorption; the
second is the cooling effect of rainwater running
over the waterproofing layer.
Obtaining design thermal conductivity by
moisture correction
The thermal conductivity of an insulation material
in a U-value calculation should reflect the
conditions in which the product will be used. In
an inverted roof, the thermal insulation is
positioned above the waterproofing layer,
exposing it to moisture.
Moisture is an effective conductor of heat, so
moisture absorption can worsen the thermal
conductivity of an insulation material. Different
insulation materials demonstrate different
moisture absorption characteristics, which is why
it’s important to select a suitable insulation
material where the effect is minimised.
ETAG 031 describes the procedure for correcting
the insulation’s thermal conductivity for use in U-
value calculations. Declared thermal conductivity
is multiplied by a moisture conversion factor to
give a design thermal conductivity.
In last month’s issue of Total Contractor we covered
BS 6229:2018, and section 4.6.2.2 of that standard
says: “Calculations of the thermal transmittance of
specific roof constructions should be carried out …
“Moisture is an effective
conductor of heat, so
moisture absorption
can worsen the thermal
conductivity of an
insulation material”
using design thermal conductivity (including
moisture conversion factor Fm).”
The factor is derived from an insulation’s
moisture conversion coefficient, and a calculation
value for moisture content based on the average
tested value for long-term water absorption by
diffusion and freeze thaw.
What information is needed to calculate a
rainwater cooling correction?
BS EN ISO 6946:2017 describes the combined
method for calculating U-values. Annex F gives a
correction procedure for inverted roofs “due to
rainwater flowing between the insulation and the
waterproofing membrane.” The rainwater absorbs
heat energy from the structure and increases the
rate of heat loss from the roof.
This correction is completely separate to the
moisture conversion factor described above. That
is applied to the thermal insulation separately,
whereas rainwater cooling is calculated as a
correction to the U-value for the roof build-up as
a whole.
Calculating the rainwater cooling correction
requires three values:
• p (measured in mm/day) is the average rate of
rainfall during the heating season. It is based on
location-specific data and varies significantly
across the UK. Both BS EN ISO 6946 and BBA
Information No.4 explain where this data can be
derived from.
• f is a drainage factor. It expresses the
percentage of the rainfall (p) that reaches the
waterproofing membrane.
• x (measured in W.day/m2.K.mm) is the factor for
increased heat loss. It is a standard value of 0.040
W.day/m2.K.mm, as given in BE EN ISO 6946.
Rainwater cooling is a fundamental part of the
combined method for calculating U-values. The
overall U-value correction and its subsequent
impact on insulation thickness is strongly
dependent on the three values listed above.
Inverted roof systems typically feature a water
flow reducing layer (WFRL), which is tested to
establish the value for f that can be included in
U-value calculations. See the May 2021 issue of
Total Contractor to read our summary of WFRLs.
For both moisture conversion factors and
rainwater cooling corrections, inverted roof
system manufacturers obtain third party
assessment and certification to provide reliable
information about their impact on system
performance.
Contact Polyfoam XPS about inverted roof
U-value calculations on the details below:
Contact Polyfoam XPS
www.polyfoamxps.co.uk
@polyfoamXPS
68 TC SEPTEMBER 2021

THE WORLD’S
THINNEST INVERTE ED
XPS RO OOF INSULATION
250mm
205mm
Thickness to achieve
0.13 W/m 2 K U-value within an inverted roof
NOW WITH BBA APPROVAL
21/5923
www.quantuminsulat
quantuminsulation.com
YOU COVEREDED
WWW.SSQGROUP.COM
SEPTEMBER 2021 TC 69

Advertorial: ROCKWOOL
ROCKWOOL SUPPORTS SPECIFIERS
WITH UPDATES & INNOVATIONS
Supporting the creation of buildings which
are as safe as they are functional and
comfortable, ROCKWOOL has continued
investing in product development and delivered a
series of updates to key fire protection products
which make it easier for building envelope
stakeholders to respond to developments in the
market, and achieve Building Regulation
compliance for flat roofs and facades.
Fire stopping for rainscreen
systems simplified
To streamline
specification and
installation of fire
stopping solutions in rainscreen
systems, new and improved ROCKWOOL SP
Firestop OSCB provides two clear options which are
proven to deliver up to 120 minutes fire integrity
and insulation when tested to ASFP TGD-19.
Designed for use in conjunction with ROCKWOOL
RAINSCREEN DUO SLAB®*, SP Firestop OSCB is
now available for cavity widths up to 600mm,
inclusive of a 25mm open air space (OSCB 25),
or cavities up to 425mm with a 44mm air space
(OSCB 44). The variants are easily identifiable by
their respective white and red weatherproof
polythene wraps, and are simple to store, handle
and install.
SP Firestop OSCB is constructed of an
intumescent strip fixed to non-combustible stone
wool insulation. When exposed to fire, the
Above: Made from stone, ROCKWOOL stone wool insulation
delivers more than just fire resilience.
intumescent strip expands to
prevent the passage of smoke
and flames through the rainscreen
cavity.
A dedicated solution for parapet
walls and upstands
To help specifiers and contractors mitigate fire
risk in the fifth façade, ROCKWOOL has expanded
its flat roofing range with new HARDROCK®
UB34, a non-combustible upstand board
specially designed for parapet walls and
upstands on flat roofs.
ROCKWOOL HARDROCK UB34 is constructed of a
50mm slab of ROCKWOOL stone wool insulation
bonded to a rigid 6mm fibre cement board, which
means the system is impact and weather
resistant. With the insulation component offering
a thermal conductivity of 0.034 W/mK, it is a
thermally efficient upstand insulation board that
is also non-combustible in case of fire.
The product’s proven thermal performance
insulates upstands to reduce thermal bridging,
cutting down on overall heat loss from buildings
to improve energy efficiency. HARDROCK UB34 is
suitable for installation in the external walls of
relevant buildings over 18m, as it is rated
Euroclass A2-s1, d0 as required by Building
Regulation 7(2)**.
HARDROCK UB34 is compatible with a wide range
of flat roof systems, including single-ply and
inverted.
BBA approval for HARDROCK Multi-Fix
ROCKWOOL HARDROCK® Multi-Fix (DD) and
Tapered have been certified by the British Board
of Agrément (BBA) following rigorous testing of
their durability, thermal and fire performance.
The BBA certification is the latest in a series of
accreditations for HARDROCK Multi-Fix (DD) and
Left: ROCKWOOL HARDROCK UB34 is designed
specifically for parapet walls and
upstands on flat roofs.
Below left: ROCKWOOL SP
Firestop OSCB is easily
identifiable by its white
(OSCB 25) or red
(OSCB 44)
weatherproof polythene wrap.
Tapered, substantiating the products’ ability to
help specifiers simultaneously deliver thermal,
fire and acoustic protection for flat roofs.
Alongside achieving European Reaction to Fire
Classification of A2-s1,d0 non-combustible,
HARDROCK Multi-Fix meets the highest LPCB
standards: (LPS 1181: Part 1 Ext A).
ROCKWOOL HARDROCK Multi-Fix is compatible
with a range of bonded and mechanically fixed roof
systems, including single-ply, EPDM and liquid
membranes, bitumen, and green roofs. The Tapered
variant of the product is pre-cut to provide a fall in
the roof level, aiding water management.
To further support specification and installation of
building envelope solutions, ROCKWOOL has
developed a series of Resource Hubs which bring
together key information and resources for a
range of applications – including Resource Hubs
for Flat Roofs and Ventilated Facades.
Each Resource Hub helps stakeholders to quickly
find the information they need, and access
technical tools, product literature and case
studies more easily than ever. To start saving
time on specification, please visit:
www.rockwool.com/uk/resource-hubs
*SP Firestop OSCB is only compatible for use in conjunction
with ROCKWOOL RAINSCREEN DUO SLAB®
**The ban on combustible cladding is applicable to relevant
buildings over 18m as specified in Building Regulation 7 (2).
Contact ROCKWOOL
www.rockwool.com/uk/resource-hubs
@ROCKWOOLUK
70 TC SEPTEMBER 2021

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Call 01254 685 175
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Go To Your Local Roofing
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Slatescape, your No.1 slate supplier
SEPTEMBER 2021 TC 71

Insulation Updates
For further info on all these updates and more, visit www.total-contractor.co.uk
DOUBLE ACCREDITATION GAINS
SuperFOIL Insulation has received
accreditations from the Insulation Assurance
Authority (IAA) and GDGC Qualitymark
Protection.
training. The IAA gives homeowners,
stakeholders and funders
confidence that any insulation
work is carried out to the highest
strict application process to ensure its
products meet the GDGC’s high
standards and upon agreeing to
a process of constant
standard, ensuring it is done
monitoring, SuperFOIL is now
Already accredited by the British Board of Agrément
‘right first time’. SuperFOIL was
recognised as a GDGC approved
(BBA) and certified by groups including LABC, DIBt
named an IAA system designer
supplier.
& ZAG, these two latest accreditations give
after its products were audited and
customers and installers even greater confidence in
The accreditations mean installers
deemed to satisfy all IAA requirements.
the quality and safety of SuperFOIL Insulation.
can offer insurance-backed guarantees, giving
GDGC is an insurance broker specialising in assurance that the products being used are
The IAA is an industry body which provides a
offering insurance-backed guarantees on home high quality and fit for purpose.
quality assurance framework covering technical
improvements such as insulation. Following a
guidance, consumer protection, certifications and
www.superfoil.co.uk
ON-DEMAND CPD MODULES LAUNCHED
ROCKWOOL has enhanced its CPD programme with the addition of on-demand modules at
www.rockwool.com/uk/on-demand/.
The new option makes professional development more accessible than ever by giving users the opportunity to complete CPDs at a place and time of their
choosing. The on-demand CPDs complement the wider CPD programme, where all modules can be accessed through presentations hosted by a member of the
ROCKWOOL Specification Team in-person or virtually. The full suite of ROCKWOOL CPDs can now be accessed according to user preference, with further support
available at any time. The on-demand solution launches with four topics initially, providing practical insights and knowledge on current legislation, product
performance and best practice for fire safety. The on-demand range is applicable to the main areas of the building envelope, specifically facades and roofs, and
features the CPDs: Fire Safety and Tall Building Facades; A-Rated Products; Building Envelope; and Compartmentation. Paul Barrett, Head of Product
Management at ROCKWOOL, commented: “Professional development opportunities are hugely important in construction, as they help specifiers and architects
to stay abreast of developments in legislation and best practice. The new on-demand CPD option gives users flexibility and choice, so that every individual can
access professional development as and when it suits them. Of course, we are still very enthusiastic about hosting CPD sessions in person so that we can
assist attendees with any specific requirements – just get in touch to book!” www.rockwool.com/uk/on-demand/
ACTIS SALES GO ‘THROUGH THE ROOF’
With the popularity of extensions and loft conversions almost literally going through the roof, merchants
are reporting a huge rise in sales of insulation products – particularly of those produced by Actis.
www.insulation-actis.com
Jewson Sales Manager Brad Ellis said: “Insulation and insulating membranes have been flying out of the door over the
past year, with a current loft promotion across stores in the south of England generating even more interest. Improvement projects are currently on the property
owners’ minds. We currently have customers using Actis for loft and barn conversions and complete build projects, as well as home offices and playrooms. We
have ensured that the big brands are stocked in these branches, including Actis, to give our customers choice and the ability to purchase the stock then and
there. We have purpose-built loft displays in dedicated branches to showcase our extended loft offering, which has proved popular with our core target
audience, as well as attracting new customers to the branches who are keen to know more about the products we stock. Our customers have welcomed our loft
launch in the area and are now asking questions in the branches about why Actis is so good! As well as Hybris, the core insulation product, sales of H Control
Hybrid, an insulating vapour control layer and Boost R Hybrid, an insulating breather membrane, have also generated interest, with more customers purchasing
these products. This is largely thanks to the Actis Regional Sales Manager, Liane Bayliss, giving technical training to the sales team who have been massively
receptive to the product. Our customers enjoy the flexibility, efficiency and the economic saving that comes with this product when installing on their projects.”
72 TC SEPTEMBER 2021

Insulation Updates
For further info on all these updates and more, visit www.total-contractor.co.uk
ROCKWOOL’S RED BOOK UPDATED
A 2021 version of the ROCKWOOL Red Book
has now been released, capturing a series
of key technical updates to ensure that this
interactive guide to stone wool insulation
will continue to save specifiers time, and
make it simple to identify the right product
for facade, wall, floor, and roof applications.
Launched last year in an all new interactive
format, the ROCKWOOL Red Book is a powerful
digital tool which provides access to technical
data, product certification and a wide range of
specification support materials across the
ROCKWOOL product range.
One of the major updates for 2021 is the
inclusion of British Board of Agrément (BBA)
certification for the ROCKWOOL HARDROCK
range of flat roofing products. ROCKWOOL
HARDROCK Multi-Fix (DD) and Tapered were
recently certified by the BBA following rigorous
testing of their durability, thermal and fire
performance. This independent accreditation
validates the suitability of these products in a
flat roof application. Useful interactive links to
this certification can now be accessed directly
through the ROCKWOOL Red Book.
External Wall Insulation Dual Density Slab has
been added as a new product, providing
specifiers with information on its use in ETICS
external wall systems. Made with ROCKWOOL
dual density technology, the upper layer has a
distinctly higher density which provides a robust
outer surface for applying render. Thermal and
acoustic performance data for this new product
can be easily accessed from the ROCKWOOL
Red Book, as well as relevant NBS clauses.
The update for the latest edition also includes
updated digital links to approved documents
and regulatory guidelines, as well as new
content on the aged performance of stone wool.
In response to customer feedback, extended U-
value data is provided for floors, and imagery
and technical drawings have been updated and
improved throughout the guide.
Application-driven, the ROCKWOOL Red Book
provides detailed guidance for designing
ROCKWOOL stone wool insulation into all types
of buildings. “Our customers tell us that the
ROCKWOOL Red Book is their go-to guide to
specify insulation. We’re continually improving
this as a practical guide that’s easy to use and
saves customers time. We want to ensure it
remains relevant and accurate,” commented
Paul Barrett, Head of Product Management at
ROCKWOOL.
Download your copy here:
www.rockwool.com/uk/redbook
STOSILENT DISTANCE SYSTEM PROVIDES PEACE & QUIET
The StoSilent Distance system has been
installed at the new Prof. Lord Bhattacharyya
Building, home of the National Automotive
Innovation Centre (NAIC), on the University of
Warwick campus.
The NAIC is a unique research and development
facility where academic and industrial teams
work together to develop the future of transport.
“The architects – Cullinan Studio – wanted to
encourage people to come together for research,
demonstrations, meetings and breakout sessions,
so acoustics were a key consideration within this
multiple-use building”, explained Sto Technical
Consultant for Acoustics, James Gosling.
“It was especially important in the large, open
atrium area which forms the centrepiece of the
building. This was designed to be a flexible
space, and so it was a requirement to correctly
balance the challenges of
attenuation, reverberation,
speech intelligibility and foot
traffic. The aim was to create an
acoustic environment that was
reliable and practical, while also
achieving a very distinctive
design aesthetic.”
Over 2,000m² of the StoSilent Distance system
was installed around the curving balustrades and
street level ceilings which feature in the multilevel
atrium area. “This appeared at first glance
to be a challenging project as the curves and
angles involved were quite specific and
demanding, but Sto were always on hand to help
out,” explained Leigh Reading of CG Reynolds, a
Sto-authorised acoustic installer for the Sto
system. “They provided bespoke training for our
ceiling fixers, and made a number of site visits
Above: Sto’s StoSilent Distance acoustic
system has been installed at the new
Prof. Lord Bhattacharyya Building.
during the installation to provide
support. The StoSilent Distance
system proved to be extremely
flexible, and Sto were never more
than a phone call away if we
required any advice.”
The StoSilent Distance system
includes the Sto minimal void
SW150 metal profile sub-construction which can
be installed and adjusted to suit a very wide
variety of application requirements, thus
providing a tremendous range of design
possibilities. The acoustic boards are made from
96% recycled glass, making them lightweight
and easy to install. They provide excellent
acoustics, and aesthetically provide a modern,
clean, monolithic appearance.
www.sto.com
74 TC SEPTEMBER 2021

DRIVING CONFIDENCE
DEVELOPING COMPETENCE
leading to accredited
•
•
•
For more information:
0845 1547188 training@spra.co.uk
www.spra.co.uk
Simple application
Easy online job registration
IBGs
Made
Easy
law services
www.qanw.co.uk
• Call us on 01292 268020
SEPTEMBER 2021 TC 75

Article
Site Workwear
AUTUMN WORKWEAR
THAT TICKS ALL THE BOXES
Peter Dumigan, the Managing Director of Hultafors Group UK, owner of Snickers Workwear,
says tradespeople really can have it all, with environmentally conscious workwear that
performs well and looks good on site too!
Combining hi-tech fabric technology with
verifiable sustainability, Snickers
Workwear delivers market-leading work
clothes solutions for a wide range of working
environments, hazards and weather conditions.
With firms and individuals increasingly focused
on environmentally responsible business
activities, Snickers Workwear’s eco-friendly
garment solutions could prove to be the right
‘sustainable choice’ for you and your business.
For example, with government legislation on the
horizon, utilizing the Snickers Workwear garments
made from recycled polyester, organic cotton and
muelsing-free fabrics, as well as the ‘100%
Circularity’ in EMMA safety footwear, will deliver
peace of mind and compliance in an increasingly
demanding corporate world.
This socially responsible approach to kitting out a
workforce is complemented by the brands’ wellestablished
hallmarks of comfort and
functionality. They’re delivered through the use of
stretch fabrics and a comprehensive sizing
system which ensures that whatever the size of
your workforce, there’s a product to fit each
individual perfectly – for improved wellbeing and
performance at work.
Snickers Workwear clothing is tested for real
environments from the arctic circle to the
southern Mediterranean, tried and tested in
extreme environmental conditions, including cold,
heat, wind and rain. But not only are these
working clothes tested for performance, they’re
now tested with regard to ‘Environmental
Sustainability’. What makes these garments so
appealing to individuals and businesses alike is
not only the ergonomic body
mapping designs, but also the
21st century fabrics including the
latest in recycled, organic and
sports fabric technology.
Design and development has
always been driven by continual
research into user needs and
experiences in a variety of
working environments and
weather conditions, but
nowadays recyclability
and carbon footprint
impact is a key
part of that
evaluation. So, it’s
not just the physical
demands on the body
when working hard on site or in sports and leisure
activities that’s researched, it’s the physical
demands that product manufacturing and
disposal place on the world around us that
matters too.
So, if you’re thinking about what’s most practical
– and beneficial – to wear this autumn for work
or leisure, some of Snickers Workwear’s LiteWork
and FlexiWork clothing is dual purpose and works
hard to reduce our collective carbon footprints.
If it’s performance you need, check out the
upgraded lightweight and breathable 37.5 fabric
technology in Snickers Workwear’s mid- and
base-layer clothes. With superb cooling
technology, they’re great for demanding tasks on
site as well as high intensity gym work, circuit
training, jogging, hill walking and mountainbiking.
The new AllroundWork styles are made
Left: Peter Dummigan, Managing Director of Hultafors
Group UK; Above: Snickers’ Merino Wool options.
from highly functional waffle-structured 37.5
fabric for optimal ventilation, cooling and
moisture transport to keep you feeling fresh for
longer.
Combining market-leading fabric
technology with verifiable sustainability
But if you want to be more than just cool and
comfortable at work this autumn – and do your
bit for saving the planet – the ‘Verifiable
Sustainability’ in Snickers Workwear’s new
garments will suit you down to the ground. The
brand aims to be at the forefront of sustainability
in workwear which is why these new products are
made of 100% recycled polyester with a biobased,
anti-odour finish, plus a smooth texture
and efficient moisture transport for great working
comfort.
If your focus is on being kind to animals, the
Continued on page 78
76 TC SEPTEMBER 2021

Perfect For Your Next
Re-Roofing Project!
Designed with the environment in mind
Does your current supplier have the
lightest synthetic slate tile on the
market?
Liteslate can weigh as little as 10kg per m²,
ideal for projects in need of a light footprint,
or older structures that cannot hold heavy,
traditional tiles.
Does your current supplier care
about the environment?
14 million tonnes of plastic enter the ocean
every year due to the use of virgin plastics.
Britmet Liteslate is manufactured using over
90% recycled polymers. By the end of 2021,
Britmet will recycle over 3 million kilograms of
polypropylene.
Does your current supplier achieve a
12 ° Pitch?
Liteslate was tested by the BRE for roof pitches
as low as 12 °, offering the ideal lightweight
roofing solution for our customers, with a
traditional tile appearance.
Does your current supplier
manufacture in Britain?
By manufacturing in the UK, we pride ourselves
on upholding a high standard of professional
ethics. With a central location like the West
Midlands, we work with a number of distribution
networks, boasting national coverage.
Does your current supplier use
more than 30% limestone content?
Limestone content over 30% often leads to
colour fade in synthetic slate. Thats why
Britmet only uses 20% to ensure you have a
roof that lasts a lifetime.
Does your current supplier focus on
usability rather than quality?
As Liteslate has a reduced limestone content,
it will not crack, split or break. However, it can
easily be cut using a circular saw or a jigsaw.
Check out our amazing colour range!
sales@britmet.co.uk | 01295 250998 | www.britmet.co.uk | #TheBritmethod

Site Workwear
Continued from page 76
Sustainable Merino Wool mid- and base-layer
clothes are ‘Mulesing-free’, which will help you
stay warm or cool because of the nature of its
100% all-natural Merino Wool fabric that delivers
optimal comfort for all kinds of working
environments and leisure activities. Designed by
nature for excellent ventilation and insulation,
Merino wool is extremely soft and naturally
odour-preventive for an all-day fresh feel. It’s
also temperature-regulating and repels water and
dirt particles, plus it’s also anti-static and as
mentioned earlier, Snickers Workwear ensures
that the wool it uses is produced in kind-toanimals,
‘Mulesing-free’ environments.
If recyclability is your particular focus in ecofriendly
priorities, then the AllroundWork fleeces
and bodywarmers could be your ‘Sustainable
Choice’. Made from 100% recycled polyester, the
POLARTEC garments are comfortable and
lightweight with great freedom of movement.
They’ll also deliver just the right warmth and
comfort to keep your body warm in chilly early
mornings or comfortably cool in the warmer
evenings.
100% circularity in materials technology
to really improve your carbon footprint
If you want to ensure 100% circularity in what
you’re wearing, a product that’s completely made
Sustainability is at the heart of Snickers Workwear’s offering.
Above: Fleeces from Snickers Workwear.
from a combination of recycled materials and
materials that are recyclable is EMMA,
Sustainably Responsible Safety Footwear;
definitely a brand worth looking at.
EMMA is a socially responsible brand because
it’s totally committed to sustainability and
reducing waste. Every shoe, trainer or boot in its
range is safe for the environment with a ‘100%
‘circular’ manufacturing, usage-mapping and
recycling process. So, to make a positive social
impact in your workplace, if your ordinary safety
footwear just isn’t contributing to your
sustainability policy, you can be sure there’s an
EMMA product that is.
While style, comfort and functionality have been
key drivers in Snickers Workwear clothing
development over the years, fabric performance
and sustainability is now central to the technical
design of the garments and footwear, just as it is
in performance sports and leisurewear.
The result is environmentally-friendly,
ergonomically designed dual-purpose working
clothes and footwear that are not only designed to
meet the physical demands that tradespeople
face at work, but are also ideal for some sports
and leisure activities – plus reducing your carbon
footprint too!
37.5 fabric technology: making working on site a
better experience
Peter says: “On a hot day you really need a garment
made from a fabric that has the ultimate capacity
for ventilation and moisture transport. That is why
we at Snickers Workwear have chosen 37.5
technology to provide hardworking craftsmen and
women with the coolest experience.”
37.5 is a ground-breaking new fabric technology –
largely used in high-performance sportswear – with
unmatched efficiency when it comes to ventilation
and moisture transport. Instead of being applied to
the surface of the fabric, 37.5 fibres are woven into
the fabric. This means they never get washed out so
you get the full benefit wear after wear.
5 cool facts about 37.5 ventilating technology
• The active particles used in 37.5 technology are
derived from natural sources such as coconut shells
and volcanic minerals.
• Fabrics with 37.5 technology dry up to five times
faster than performance fabrics without.
• The hotter a user gets the stronger the drive force
removing moisture becomes.
“Fabric performance
and sustainability is
now central to the
technical design of the
garments and
footwear”
Contact Snickers Workwear
www.snickersworkwear.co.uk
01484 854788
78 TC SEPTEMBER 2021

Updates
For further info on all these updates and more, visit www.total-contractor.co.uk
STAY IN CONTROL WITH SNICKERS
‘Upgraded, innovative and
sustainable’, that’s how
Snickers Workwear
describes its Climate
Control clothing, which
delivers exceptional comfort
and performance.
The company says there’s a
range of garments that use
socially and environmentally
responsible fibre technology
such as 100% recycled
polyester, as well as others
available in high-tech
breathable fabrics.
For consistent comfort, the
seamless designs are also
available in 37.5 ventilating
technology for efficient body
moisture transport, as well as
odour-reducing merino wool
to suit different types of work,
whatever the weather
conditions.
These cutting-edge
AllroundWork, FLEXIWork and
LITEwork designs and fabrics will keep you cool,
warm and dry when you need to be. All the
garments are made from quick drying,
lightweight fabrics that come with special
ventilation features to control and regulate the
heat from your body.
All in all, Snickers Workwear Baselayer clothing
will give you the kind of fresh working comfort
you wouldn’t have thought possible.
For further info call 01484 854788; check out
www.snickersworkwear.co.uk and download a
digital catalogue, or email
sales@hultaforsgroup.co.uk
BIG INVESTMENT FOR WERNERCO
WernerCo has announced a new £10 million investment plan, including the relocation of its UK
Distribution Centre to a new purpose-built facility.
Following a positive 2020, which saw strong levels of customer growth, the new WernerCo facilities WernerCo has announced a new £10m investment plan.
currently being built in Burton will enable the manufacturer to continue to drive UK business performance. As well as a larger facility with increased storage
space to enhance sales and distribution capabilities, the new 170,000 sq ft state-of-the-art development will also act as a central office for the UK that will
host Customer Care, the marketing department and a showroom and training facility. This investment will also see new jobs created for the local community,
including essential roles within the warehouse and logistics team. Justin White, Managing Director at WernerCo, commented: “Despite the challenges faced in
2020, WernerCo had an incredibly strong year, with sales in the DIY and consumer market continuing to soar across our core brands such as Werner and
Youngman. Following this, we are delighted to be re-investing into our warehouse and logistics capabilities with our new facilities. The new facilities are
ideally located with good transport links, allowing us to continue offering services such as next-day delivery. This relocation will also provide us with
additional space, further enhancing our operations and enabling us to continue supplying our best-selling products to meet customer demand. Additionally,
we are delighted that this new facility will offer a large number of new job opportunities at a time when they are needed most.” www.wernerco.com
SCREWFIX SETS THE PACE WITH SPRINT SERVICE!
Screwfix has launched a rapid delivery service called Screwfix Sprint which it says will deliver orders
direct to site, within 60 minutes.
Following a successful trial, Screwfix will begin to roll-out the service, which it says will meet the growing
demand for speed and convenience from Britain’s tradespeople. The latest delivery proposition will mean customers who need urgent supplies when on a
job, can order and receive their essentials within 1 hour, without losing time by leaving site. Sprint is rolling out now and by the beginning of November,
more than 30 cities across the UK are set to benefit from the service. London, Birmingham, and Glasgow are among the cities included, meaning that the
service will be available across 34% of UK postcodes, with further rollout planned next year. Designed to offer hyper-convenience and value with just a £5
delivery charge, Screwfix Sprint is available through the Screwfix app, which has recently surpassed 1 million downloads. John Mewett, CEO of Screwfix,
commented: “We understand how busy the nation’s tradespeople are and we are always looking for ways to provide our customers with even greater
convenience, meaning they can get what they need, when they need it. “Our 1 minute Click and Collect service is already hugely popular and the trial of
Screwfix Sprint across Bristol showed how, in addition, tradespeople value 1 hour delivery to where they are working. For many, time is money, and this
means not having to leave site to collect a part, tool or other key essential needed for the job.” www.screwfix.com/help/sprint
80 TC SEPTEMBER 2021

USE INSIGHT DATA TO
DISC
VER
THE BEST
CUSTOMERS
CONNECTWITH
DECISION MAKERS
PERF
RM
WITH
BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE
01934 808 293
hello@insightdata.co.uk
@insightdata
www.insightdata.co.uk
502 Worle Park Way, Weston-super-Mare, BS22 6WA

Updates
For further info on all these updates and more, visit www.total-contractor.co.uk
VISIBLE WORKWEAR BENEFITS!
Instant recognition and
continuous protection at
work can be a life-saver in
wide range of work
environments from
construction and engineering,
ProtecWork families, a whole host of different
garments to satisfy the specific requirements of
Classes 1, 2 and 3 protection levels.
hazardous conditions.
to handling and logistics;
All these ‘outstanding’ products combine
professional trades and lighter
That’s why Hi-Vis working
Snickers Workwear’s unrivalled hallmarks of
manual work; to specialist
clothes are an integral part of
functionality and comfort with the requirements
engineering requiring high
every man and woman’s PPE
of the EN20471 standard for high visibility
standards of certified
package – especially in dim,
warning clothes.
personal protective clothing.
dark or variable light
conditions.
There’s jackets, trousers, For further info call 01484 854788; check out
shorts, toolvests, shirts and www.snickersworkwear.co.uk and download a
With this in mind, Snickers
fleeces in the LITEWork, digital catalogue, or email
Workwear has an extensive
FLEXIWork AllroundWork and sales@hultaforsgroup.co.uk
range of garments to suit a
LASER PRECISION WITH MAKITA
Makita has added two 12Vmax CXT multi-line lasers to its offering. The multi-line lasers project one horizontal and two
vertical 360° lines, and include a precise self-levelling feature to enable simple setup, layout and alignment.
The 12Vmax CXT Red Multi-Line Laser (SK700DZ) and 12Vmax CXT Green Multi-Line Laser (SK700GDZ) are versatile and durable
with a range of features to make work on site as simple as possible. The Red Multi-Line Laser has a range of 25 metres in each
direction (50 m diameter) while the green lasers of the SK700GDZ provide an increased range of 35m (70m diameter) and better line visibility in brighter
conditions. The robust units are IP54 (dust and splash water) rated, have an operating temperature range of -10 to 50 ºC and feature a ¼ inch tripod thread for
easy mounting. Each vertical and horizontal laser emitter on the tool projects four lines to create up to three 360-degree laser lines. Depending on what is
required, users can choose various combinations of the laser lines in addition to the full three line configuration. Single horizontal or vertical lines, vertical and
horizontal combined or both vertical lines (front to back and side to side) are available. It also includes three brightness settings for optimum visibility
depending on the environment. Kevin Brannigan of Makita UK said: “The new 12Vmax CXT Multi-Line Lasers have been designed for use on a range of site
layout, first- and second-fix tasks. The multi-line configuration and self-levelling mechanism makes it simple to align and layout everything from doors and
windows, floors, pipework and electrical installations to tiling, lighting and kitchen and bathroom installations.” https://makitauk.com/products/measuring
DICKIES PROVIDES THE ESSENTIALS!
Global workwear brand Dickies has announced details of the upcoming Considered Essentials
collection launch, aimed at workers who demand garments that work as hard as they do.
Dickies has supplied workers with tough, quality clothing for almost 100 years, a milestone that will be
celebrated in 2022. In that time, Dickies has evolved to encompass a full range of performance wear as
well as a workwear-inspired range. Product highlights include the Everyday Coverall, Action Flex Trousers,
Okemo Sweatshirt and Stowe Hoodie. All products within the collection provide comfort and technical
details, pieces like the Acting Flex trousers offer knee pad pockets, mechanical stretch for movement and
pocket with zip opening for optimal accessibility and safety. Dickies’ workwear garments are updated to
offer more support and lasting comfort, while staying true to the core garments and their history. The
collection is designed for the worker and with the worker’s lifestyle in mind.
www.dickieslife.com/uk_en/shop-by/work/work-considered-essentials
82 TC SEPTEMBER 2021

SPEED AND
SIMPLICITY,
BY DESIGN.
Introducing the new Siderise
non-combustible cavity tray (NC-CT).
A unique trilateral design that’s flush-fitting, fully aluminium
wrapped and pre-filled with non-combustible stonewool, making
it incredibly quick and easy to install as well as A2-s1,d0 rated.
Its exclusive design* is engineered for use with Steel Framing
Systems and blockwork inner leaves without hot works, screwing
or chamfering, whilst corners are easily cut on-site. Backed by
forty-five years of cavity barrier innovation, full site support
services and our market leading inspection app, Siderise NC-CT
is another innovation to help make projects easier.
Your Workmanship. Our Ingenuity. Swift Installation.
Discover more at Siderise.com
*Patent pending