February 2024

FEBRUARY 2024 

The Air 

To The 

Throne 

>>> • LRWA AWARDS: FINALISTS • INVERTED ROOFS • WORKWEAR & PPE • FIXINGS • >>>

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Editor’s Intro 

MATT DOWNS 

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR 

MATTDOWNS@MEDIA-NOW.CO.UK 

07963 330774 

The Air 

To The 

Throne 

Whilst each year brings new challenges for the construction sector, the 

issue around skills, recruitment into the sector and retaining labour is 

one that persists year on year. 

The task becomes even harder when it’s about keeping traditional trades such 

as roof slating and tiling alive. But that’s what the Build Your Future initiative, 

launched by the West Lothian Construction Forum, which is Chaired by Jamie 

Taylor, Owner of Taylor Roofs, is trying to do. Jamie’s company Taylor Roofs has 

joined forces with other trades to showcase their traditional skills to 60 second 

and third year pupils at Armadale Academy. Announcing the pilot scheme, 

which took place on 30th January, Jamie explained: “It’s vital that we try our 

hardest to keep the traditional skills alive. The idea behind this programme is 

that we give the youngsters an insight into construction and what a career in 

the industry might look like for them.” And that’s the key to initiatives like this, 

showcasing the skill involved in roofing and construction and piquing the 

youngsters’ interest at the right time; planting that seed that construction can 

be a welcoming sector where you can grow and develop, and ultimately enjoy a 

rewarding career. And it stands to reason that if we consistently we get more 

volunteers from roofing into schools around the UK, we’ll get more motivated 

new entrants choosing – rather than falling into – a career in roofing in the 

years to come. You can read more about The Build Your Future initiative at 

total-contractor.co.uk. 

Elsewhere in this issue, as James Talman explains on page 16, challenges 

around labour is also one of the areas NFRC is looking to tackle in 2024, 

alongside poor payment practices and preparing for the impact of increased 

competency requirements; Bradley Hirst of Knauf Insulation answers key Qs 

around embodied carbon and sustainability (p38); and we discuss PPE and 

workwear with the team at Carhartt (p44), plus much more! 

Matt 

Front cover courtesy of A Proctor Group. Proctor Air is the new air and 

vapour permeable, highly water resistant roofing underlay from A Proctor 

Group. Find out more on page 36. www.proctorgroup.com 

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Editorial Director Matt Downs 

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Email: mattdowns@media-now.co.uk 

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Supported by: 

48 

Makita has added a range of heated 

base-layers to its offering to keep contractors warm 

on site. Find out more in our Tools & Workwear 

updates from page 48.

Contents 

3 KEY FEATURES 

22 

22 THE CONDENSATION 

CONSIDERATION 

Matt Neary of Glidevale Protect takes a closer 

look at the new NHBC guidance and discusses 

the choice of roofing underlay and ventilation 

solutions available to help lower condensation 

risk when using integrated, in-roof solar panels 

40 INVERTED FOCUS 

Rob Firman of Polyfoam XPS talks all things 

inverted flat roofs, discussing waterproofing 

considerations, waterflow reducing layers and 

thermal insulation choice and much more... 

44 WORKWEAR & PPE FOCUS 

The team at Carhartt explain why choosing 

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and 

workwear with in-built toughness is absolutely 

crucial for those working on construction sites 

FURTHER READING 

15 WORKING IN BAD WEATHER 

As the poor weather continues, Marley’s Daniel Redfern 

provides tips to stay comfortable and safe on site 

18 BUILDING NEW HORIZONS 

Fraser Biles of BMI discusses the importance of new 

entrants learning from experienced contractors 

20 ASK A PROCTOR 

What’s the difference between a breather membrane 

and roofing underlay? The team explain all... 

26 ROOFING: THE GREENER SIDE 

Justin Pitman of Proteus Waterproofing looks at the 

increased demand within the green / blue roof sector 

46 

32 PROJECT FOCUS: FACADE 

We take a closer look at Proteus Facades’ role in a new 

student accommodation building in Edinburgh 

46 FIXINGS: ‘THE UNSUNG HEROES’ 

James Robinson of Samac Fixings explains why the 

importance of quality fixings can never be overstated 

4 TC FEBRUARY 2024

REGULARS 

16 NFRC ROOFING TALK 

What are the key areas of focus for NFRC this 

year? CEO James Talman highlights his priorities 

and ambitions for the association over the next 

twelve months, with support for members with 

regards to challenges around skills and labour, 

tackling retentions and poor payment practices, 

and helping to usher in the ‘biggest change in 

construction’ – building safety and the 

associated requirements around competency 

38 KNAUF INSULATION 

TECH TALK 

In his latest column, Bradley Hirst, Technical 

Services Manager at Knauf Insulation, answers 

some frequently asked questions regarding 

embodied carbon, highlighting why it should be 

a key consideration for the supply chain 

INDUSTRY NEWS 

06 ENTRIES OPEN FOR BMI COMP! 

Is there an apprentice in your team with the potential to 

win this year’s BMI Apprentice of the Year competition? 

14 AND THE FINALISTS ARE... 

The shortlisted projects have been announced for this 

year’s LRWA Awards, which take place on March 20th... 

SECTIONS: 

TOTAL 

ROOFING 

15 

TOTAL 

CLADDING 

32 

TOTAL 

INSULATION 

38 

10 

As the green roof sector continues 

to grow, the recently formed GRO 

Training & Education working 

group has outlined what it’s doing 

to help address any skills gap. 

VEHICLES, TOOLS 

& WORKWEAR 

44 

FEBRUARY 2024 TC 5

Industry News 

WORRYING STATS FOR 

SECTOR INSOLVENCIES 

The construction sector is experiencing 

the highest number of insolvencies of any 

industry in the UK, with 4,370 companies 

going bust in the year to the end of 

November 2023, representing 17% of all 

insolvencies, according to Mazars, the 

international audit, tax and advisory firm. 

Mazars says in 2022, the UK’s construction 

sector contributed 6% to the country’s GDP, 

however construction insolvencies have 

consistently outnumbered any other sector 

for the past three years, with 2022/23’s 

figure showing a 7% increase from the 4,086 

companies that went insolvent in 2021/22, 

and a 76% rise from 2,481 2020/21. 

Mazars points out that the construction 

sector has been hit hardest with a perfect 

storm of high material and labour costs, 

while the impact of rising borrowing costs 

has further impacted profit margins on both 

live and pipeline development projects. The 

company also points out that 2023 saw 

mortgage rates reach a 15-year high, putting 

a dent in consumer confidence and taking the 

heat out of the dramatic price rises in 

residential housing over recent years. 

Mark Boughey, Partner in the Restructuring 

Services team at Mazars, explained: “There 

are now on average a dozen building 

companies going under every single day in 

the UK. This is an immensely difficult period 

for the construction sector.” 

He continued: “One problem is that the 

commercial viability of a lot of today’s projects 

were assessed three or four years ago, with 

fixed price contracts often being negotiated – 

since then, costs have spiralled, while buyers’ 

appetite has taken a dive. Construction 

contractors operate on very tight margins at the 

best of times – the sector is really being 

squeezed at both ends right now.” 

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

APPRENTICES, HAVE YOU GOT WHAT IT 

TAKES TO WIN THIS YEAR’S BMI TITLE? 

Roofing apprentices across the UK are being 

encouraged to showcase their skills by entering 

this year’s BMI Apprentice of the Year 

competition, which takes place on the 24th and 

25th July. 

The event, hosted by BMI UK & Ireland – 

manufacturer of leading roofing 

brands Redland and Icopal – is 

open to apprentices in both pitched 

and flat roofing. The competition will 

see finalists undertake a series of 

challenges, providing opportunities to 

showcase and develop their skills – from 

technical and practical capability and teamwork, 

through to marketing and business acumen. 

Held over two days at the BMI Academy in 

Gloucestershire, each round of the competition is 

overseen by a panel of judges who are selected 

for their influence on the roofing sector. This 

provides finalists with an opportunity to learn 

directly from leading industry figures. 

BMI says the Apprentice of the Year competition 

aims to strengthen the future of the roofing 

industry and address the skills shortage by 

providing a platform for these new recruits to 

expand their skills and receive the necessary 

levels of support needed to develop quickly and 

succeed. 

More than just a contest of existing technical 

skills, BM points out the two-day event is 

designed to provide coaching and development so 

that all of the finalists walk away having 

benefitted from the experience. Reflected through 

this year’s theme of ‘Building New Horizons’, BMI 

says the competition provides a platform for new 

talent starting their careers, as well as the tutors 

and employers creating opportunities and sharing 

their expertise with apprentices. 

This year, two apprentices will earn the title of 

BMI Apprentice of the Year – one in flat roofing 

and the other in pitched – alongside a £1,000 

Euan Forsyth, pictured above, centre, with 

Meghan Waller and Fraser Biles of BMI UK & 

Ireland, was crowned Pitched Roofing 

Apprentice of the Year 2023, and Charlie Plant 

(left, centre) won the Flat Roofing category. 

cash prize and three years’ worth of training 

at the BMI Academy. To enter, roofing apprentices 

are invited to submit their entry online by 26th 

April. 

Fraser Biles, Commercial Director at BMI, said: 

“Apprenticeships provide a fantastic route in the 

industry, giving new entrants the opportunity to 

undertake their training and apply their learnings 

on jobs alongside experienced roofers.” 

He continued: “The BMI Apprentice of the Year 

event celebrates the commitment, enthusiasm 

and growing skillsets of new roofers – as well as 

the continued support of employers, colleges, 

and training providers that help them on their 

journeys. The competition is the ideal platform 

for apprentices to showcase and develop their 

skills, and may even be an event that helps 

define their careers in roofing. We’re really 

excited to see the quality of candidates for this 

year’s competition!” 

This year’s BMI Apprentice of the Year competition 

opened during National Apprenticeship Week on 

5th February, and applicants are invited to submit 

entries online by 26th April. This year’s finalists 

will be selected in May, before being invited to 

compete in the two-day final at the BMI Academy 

in July where the winners will be crowned. 

Find out more about the BMI Apprentice of the 

Year competition and how to apply, at 

bmigroup.com/uk/aoty 


WestWood Liquid Technologies Limited 

31 Morris Road, Nuffi eld Industrial Estate, 

Poole, Dorset BH17 0GG 

Phone: +44 800 808 5480 

Liquid Applied Waterproofi ng Systems 

Car Parks • Flat Roofs • Metal Roofs • Gutters • Roof Terraces Balconies

Industry News 

SUPPLIER MOVES TO 

EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP 

Optagon Group, which owns Rubber4Roofs, a 

specialist in flat roofing materials, has 

announced that its 50-strong workforce now 

owns the majority of the company through 

the Employee Ownership Trust (EOT) model. 

First established in 2010 and based in 

Swallowgate Business Park, Coventry, 

Optagon owns and operates a family of 

brands. These include Rubber4roofs, Roof 

Depot, SkyGuard and Kitbuildr. 

The move to employee ownership is said to 

have been motivated by an offer from a larger 

organisation to buy the business. However, the 

founders, Tom and Tina Cullingford, turned it 

down to let the staff be in charge of the 

company’s destiny. 

Explaining why they decided to sell Optagon to 

the staff, the Cullingfords stated: “It takes a 

lot of hard work and determination to build a 

company, and it takes a great team to build a 

great business. We were approached earlier in 

the year by a large organisation that wanted to 

buy the business, which got us thinking. It 

was an amazing offer, but we turned it down 

because we wanted this company to control 

its destiny. 

“We believe the best way to achieve that is to 

involve every single member of staff in how it 

is run. This is a terrific business – 2023 has 

been our best-ever year– and we wanted all 

staff to benefit from that success as we 

continue to grow. We’re incredibly excited at 

the huge opportunity this represents. This is 

going to be business as usual, only better.” 


ICB LAUNCHES NEW CARDIFF TRAINING HUB 

ICB Waterproofing, one of the UK's leading 

providers of waterproofing solutions, has 

opened a new training facility in Cardiff, Wales. 

The company says the new facility, strategically 

located in the city of Cardiff, is part of its 

expansion plan, giving local roofing contractors 

access to available training and technical 

information. 

Recognising the importance of specialised 

training, ICB Waterproofing says it is excited to 

offer a range of courses tailored to the needs of 

modern roofing professionals: 

• alwitra Evalon Single Ply Training Courses: 

Contractors can choose between intensive 1-day 

and comprehensive 3-day courses. With extensive 

industry experience, ICB's certified trainers will 

help to develop participants’ practical and 

technical expertise. 

• Fleet PMMA Liquid Training: This specialised 

1-day training focuses on the application and 

benefits of PMMA (Polymethyl Methacrylate) 

liquid waterproofing solutions. Participants will 

gain hands-on experience and an in-depth 

understanding of this versatile material, 

enhancing their ability to deliver durable and 

aesthetically pleasing waterproofing solutions. 

• Strata Reinforced Bitumen Membranes 

Training Course: A complete 3-day course 

designed for those looking to master the 

application of bitumen roofing. This program 

covers everything from the basics to advanced 

ICB Waterproofing’s new 

training facility in Cardiff. 

techniques, ensuring that participants are wellequipped 

to work with this robust and time-tested 

roofing material. 

ICB Waterproofing says the facility is tailor-made 

for training, ensuring that each participant gains 

maximum benefit from their experience. The 

company says its certified trainers are industry 

leaders with a wealth of knowledge and a passion 

for nurturing the next generation of roofing experts. 

Mike Williams, the Regional Technical Manager for 

the area of Cardiff, will be on hand to answer any 

technical questions. He explained: “With 15 years 

of experience within the roofing industry, I am 

looking to develop my relationships with local 

roofing contractors further and build new 

connections with contractors in south Wales and 

surrounding areas.” 

The office is also home to Perry Hawkes, the 

Projects Technical Sales Manager, who specialises 

in Solar PV and Green Roofs. He commented: “My 

aim is to open the door to additional opportunities 

by helping the customers tender for works they 

would otherwise turn down, offering wrap-round 

specification, design, and installation support for 

Solar PV, Green Roofs, and roof safety systems 

amongst other things.” 

Roofing contractors interested in enrolling in the 

training courses or who are interested in finding 

out more about the facility can visit 

alwitra.co.uk/become-accredited or contact 

ICB on 01202 785200. 

Tom Cullingford will stay on as Managing 

Director as part of a senior leadership team 

running the company day to day. He will be 

joined on the board of the business by two 

newly appointed Legal Directors, General 

Manager Antony Murray and Finance Director 

Zoe George. www.rubber4roofs.co.uk 


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Scan & Learn More

Industry News 


GRO WORKING GROUP ADDRESSES 

SECTOR TRAINING DEMANDS 

According to green roof material supplier Diadem, the green roof 

market is set to be worth GBP £4.5 billion by 2030. This is based on 

growth of around 17% each year. But how will the industry keep up with 

demand without the recruitment of the next generation of designers, 

installers and stewards of vegetated rooftops? And how is GRO, the 

Green Roof Organisation, addressing the potential skills gap? 

GRO has announced that the recently 

formed GRO Training & Education 

working group is celebrating over 500 

learners that have engaged with green 

roof training via Lantra Awards and 

GRO certification since 2018. GRO 

says the training has been rolled out across the four UK nations, including 

uptake from NatureScot, Natural Resources Wales and Queen’s University 

Belfast, plus numerous practical installation courses in England. 

The Association points out its member companies Wildflower Turf Ltd and 

Wraxalls have been offering green roof training to their partners and 

clients to encourage further uptake in the industry, and Construction 

College Midlands, part of Walsall College, has created a bespoke green 

roof rig in its green skills training area. GRO has also announced this year 

sees the introduction of a Green Roofs Microcredential (qualification) from 

Gower College and Swansea University, supported by funding from Welsh 

Government and, separately, the foundations of a Sustainable 

Environmental Roofing apprenticeship scheme. 

GRO says it is also actively working towards a more diverse and inclusive 

industry, having signed up to the Horticultural Industries ED&I Charter, 

and says it is proud that there is already a good ethnic and gender 

balance across the 500 plus certified learners. With this in mind, the 

Association points out Abigail S. was just 18 when she became the first 

female, and only the third person, in the UK to hold a blue LISS/CSCS 

Green Roof Installer card, demonstrating competency in the installation 

and maintenance of green roofs. 

The working group, which is made up of Chris Bridgman as Chair (Bridgman 

& Bridgman and GRO Vice Chair), Giles Doland (Zinco and GRO Chair), Mark 

W Harris (SIKA and GRO Secretary), Kay Rose (Institute of Roofing), Ben 

Arundel (ABG Installs), Ben Howkins (Sky Garden), Mark Dunn (SIKA), Neel 

Bidessie (Langley) and James Beattie (Pritchard & Pritchard), says it will be 

focusing on meeting the training needs of the future across all learning 

levels, and including all roles within the industry, whilst a route map for 

learners will be created, as well as a focus on training the trainer. 

www.greenrooforganisation.org / www.lantra.co.uk/product/35103 

ROBERTS GROUP ANNOUNCES 

NEW MANAGING DIRECTOR 

The Roberts Group, encompassing industry leaders Polyroof, Restec, 

and Resology, have proudly announced the appointment of Patrick 

Roberts as Group Managing Director. 

In this role, The Roberts Group says Patrick will spearhead the Group’s 

strategic vision and operational excellence, ushering in a new era of growth 

and innovation. 

The Roberts Group says Patrick, a 3rd generation member of the Roberts 

family, brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the 

organisation’s values, and his advancement signifies a pivotal moment in the 

family business’s evolution, with a commitment to maintaining its roots and 

core principles, while embracing professional growth and global expansion. 

Nick Roberts, representing the 2nd generation of the Roberts family, will take 

on the role of CEO alongside the company’s Chairman, David Roberts. 

Together, they boast an impressive, combined tenure of nearly 70 years at the 

helm and have played instrumental roles in shaping the Roberts Group into 

an industry leader. The Roberts Group says this transition reflects their 

strategic move towards trustee and supervisory roles, allowing them to 

contribute their expertise to the broader strategic direction of the group, 

ensuring it remains not only an industry leader, but also a great company to 

work with. 

“The legacy of the Roberts Group is a testament to the leadership of David 

and Nick Roberts over the past four decades,” explained Patrick Roberts. 

“Their dedication, vision and unwavering commitment to excellence have laid 

a strong foundation for not only our continued success, but the liquid roofing 

industry as a whole. I am honoured to build upon their achievements and 

lead the group into the future.” 

The Roberts family’s commitment to excellence extends to other key 

members, including Ben Roberts and Andrew Roberts, who serve as the 

Quality Manager and Sustainability Manager, respectively. The company says 

their roles highlight the family’s dedication to quality and sustainability as 

integral components of the family business’s ethos. 

www.polyroof.co.uk / www.restecroofing.co.uk 

Patrick Roberts 

(centre) with Nick 

Roberts (left) and 

David Roberts. 


NORTHWEST ALUMINIUM REBRANDS & 

STREAMLINES OFFERING AS KYTUN 

NorthWest Aluminium, one of the UK 

and Ireland’s leading manufacturers 

of roofing and ventilation solutions, 

has announced a significant 

rebranding of the business, bringing 

together its complete product range 

under the Kytun banner. 

Announcing the new brand identity, Daniel 

Gallagher (pictured above), Kytun Managing 

Director, explained: “I am proud to share the 

exciting news on the evolution of our business. 

After years of exceptional growth and expansion 

of our operations far beyond our original base, 

we’re delighted to announce a transformative 

rebrand. 

“We have amalgamated all of our operations 

under the Kytun banner – a name that not only 

captures the spirit of our journey but also 

signifies a unified and modern brand, reflecting 

the breadth of our reach across the UK and 

Ireland.” 

He continued: “Kytun is not just a new name; it’s 

a symbol of our commitment to consistency, unity, 

and excellence. This change is more than 

cosmetic; it aligns with our vision for the future, 

signifying an exciting stage of our ongoing growth, 

whilst conveying our dedication to all our clients, 

no matter where they are located. 

Discussing the new logo and branding which 

customers will see in the market, Daniel 

explained: “Accompanying the new name is a 

fresh visual identity. Our logo and branding 

elements have undergone a modern makeover, 

representing innovation and a 

forward-thinking approach. This 

visual transformation is a 

reflection of our commitment to 

staying at the forefront of industry 

trends and technology. And whilst 

things may look different, our same great team 

remain ready to serve you.” 

Focusing on the consolidation of the product 

range under the Kytun banner and the benefits 

this will provide for the supply chain, Daniel 

explained: “Streamlining our offerings ensures a 

more focused and efficient approach to delivering 

top-quality products across our 4 distinct 

categories; Dry Fix Roofing Systems; Pitched Roof 

Ventilation; Aluminium Rainwater Systems; 

Architectural Aluminium. Every product represents 

the Kytun standard of excellence and has been 

designed to perform.” 

Daniel continued: “Over the coming weeks, 

changes will be evident in our company 

documentation and digital presence, as we 

embrace the Kytun brand. Rest assured, this 

transition is designed to be seamless, and we will 

provide all the necessary resources and support 

to guide you through the process.” 

He concluded: “I want to take this opportunity to 

thank our valued clients, partners, and employees 

for their unwavering support throughout this 

journey. Their dedication has allowed us to reach 

this exciting new chapter, and we are eager to 

continue our shared success story as Kytun.” 

www.kytun.com 

FURTHER GROWTH AT 

ROOFLIGHT ASSOC. 

Roofing & cladding contractor GeoRoof has 

joined The Rooflight Association as a 

Contractor Member. 

GeoRoof specialises in providing building 

envelope solutions for the warehouse and 

logistics market, drawing on broad experience 

in this sector. The company carries out all 

design in-house and operates on a nationwide 

basis. 

Following its rebrand and re-organisation last 

year, The Rooflight Association has opened its 

membership to contractors and other 

businesses in the rooflight supply chain. 

GeoRoof Commercial Director Gavin Harriman, 

said: “The industry best-practice goals of The 

Rooflight Association mirror our own. We saw 

an opportunity to work more closely with the 

Association’s manufacturer members and to 

gain deeper insights into the many factors 

which affect and influence our industry.” 

Ian Weakford, Chairman of The Rooflight 

Association, said: “It’s great to have a 

forward-looking business like GeoRoof as a 

new member company – we’re delighted to 

welcome them and look forward to working 

together. Previously, as NARM (the National 

Association of Rooflight Manufacturers), our 

membership was limited to manufacturers 

only. We now welcome applications from 

contractors, installers, specifiers and 

consultants, as well as manufacturers of 

rooflights and associated products – to 

provide a united voice for the whole 

rooflighting industry.” 

www.rooflightassociation.org 


It’s more 

than a roof 

It’s a Marley Solar Roof System.

LEARN MORE 

You may just see a roof. But by installing the complete 

Marley Solar Roof System, you’ll see benefits of a solution 

designed to work together, whilst making the most of the 

growing demand for roof integrated solar panels. 

It’s more than a roof, it’s an opportunity for roofers. 

marley.co.uk

Industry News 

FINALISTS ANNOUNCED FOR LRWA AWARDS 2024! 

CEO Sarah Spink says the shortlisted projects demonstrate “the versatility of liquids across a number of sectors and diverse 

applications”, and those attending the 2024 Awards & Gala Dinner on March 20th “are in for a treat.” 

The Liquid Roofing and Waterproofing 

Association (LRWA) has revealed the shortlist 

for its 2024 Awards & Gala Dinner. 

A total of 20 project finalists have been chosen 

across four categories. A panel of independent 

judges – including liquid waterproofing 

specialists, specifiers and contractors – reviewed 

all submissions anonymously to reveal the 

shortlist. 

The LRWA says the selection process was based 

on strict criteria, including project complexity, 

standard of workmanship, evidence of problem 

solving, and aesthetics. The names of the 

contractor and manufacturer in each entry were 

omitted prior to judging. 

The winners of each category will be announced 

at a gala dinner on Wednesday 20 March 2024 at 

the Titanic Hotel in Liverpool’s Stanley Dock. As 

well as a winner for each project category, there 

will be a highly commended award. 

As in previous years, the gala dinner will also 

recognise the talents of individuals, including 

awards for ‘Trainer of the Year’ and ‘Student of 

the Year’. 

The LRWA Awards is now in its sixth year and 

Sarah Spink, CEO of the LRWA has thanked 

headline sponsor Sika, and other membership 

support, and says 2024 is shaping up to be the 

biggest event yet. 

Sarah commented: “Every year we’ve seen the 

standard of entries become even higher, and this 

year has been no exception. The variety of 

projects shortlisted further demonstrates the 

versatility of liquids across a number of sectors 

and diverse applications. 

“Thanks to the backing of our generous sponsors, 

we can deliver another sell-out event that brings 

contractors, clients, manufacturers, and suppliers 

Sarah Spink, CEO 

of the LRWA. 

together. We’re in for a treat at the 

2024 awards, in what remains a 

highlight in the roofing industry 

calendar!” 

The finalists for the 2024 LRWA 

Awards are: 

Liquid Roofing Project of the Year 1000m 2 : 

• Emirates Stadium – Triflex & Topek Southern 

• Madley Communication Centre – Sika & 

Nautilus Roofing and Exteriors Ltd 

• Metquarter Shopping Centre – Makers 

Construction & WestWood Liquid Technologies 

• Millstream West – WestWood Liquid 

Technologies & Premier Property & Construction 

• West Suffolk Hospital – Sika & Cambridge Flat 

Roofing 

The LRWA Awards 2023 

“We’re in for a 

treat at the 2024 

awards!” 

Liquid Roofing Project of the Year in a 

Buried Application: 

• 8 Bishopsgate – Lindner Prater & Radmat 

• Prospect Place at Battersea Power Station – 

Volker Laser & Alumasc 

• Grand Union – StructureCare & Tremco CPG UK 

• McGee House – Polyroof & MLG Building 

Contractors 

• Old Bailey – WestWood Liquid Technologies & 

Ilfield & Barrett Roofing 

Liquid Waterproofing Project of the Year: 

• Podium Basement Multi Storey Car Park – 

Makers Construction & Triflex 

• Shmuseum – WestWood Liquid Technologies & 

Cure Group 

• The Plaza Shopping Centre – Cemplas & 

WestWood Liquid Technologies 

• The Wedding Cake – WestWood Liquid 

Technologies & EMC Roofing & Cladding 

• Valaris Oil Rig – Widopan & Barbers Specialist 

Waterproofing 

The winners of the Trainer of the Year and Student 

of the Year will be announced on 20 March 2024. 

www.lrwa.org.uk 


Safety on site 

SIMPLE TIPS FOR WORKING IN POOR 

WEATHER 

Winter working – especially on exposed roofs – can be a challenge, and keeping both warm 

and safe should be a priority for the nation’s contractors. As part of its annual Winter Safety 

campaign, Daniel Redfern, from Marley, offers some practical steps roofers and other 

outdoor workers can take to minimise risk, increase comfort and, above all, stay safe. 

The opportunity to work outside during the 

summer is often seen as one of the 

perks of the building and roofing trade. 

But working outside does bring its own 

challenges. As temperatures drop and wet 

conditions take over, it’s important relevant 

measures are taken to minimise health and 

safety risks, especially for those who spend 

their days working on exposed areas such as 

roofs. 

Marley’s annual Winter Safety campaign aims 

to emphasise how and where roofing contractors 

can take better care and mitigate risk. 

So, while it is not possible to totally eradicate the 

impact of bad weather, there are some simple 

practical tips roofers can follow to offset the 

impact of outdoors working. 

Risk assessment 

The first step is to ensure that a full risk 

assessment is undertaken around working 

conditions and any potential hazards to workers 

are identified. 

Challenging winter weather can turn a low-risk 

environment into a potentially high-risk situation. 

Relatively mild temperatures and rain, or ice and 

high winds, all generate issues around working at 

height and must be factored in by roofing 

companies asking their roofing contractors to 

complete roofing projects. Sharing concerns and 

pointing out potential issues in an open and 

collaborative forum can ensure that the whole 

team fully understands hazards and can work to 

mitigate risk where it is seen. 

Marley says it is vital that roofing professionals do not discard their high 

vis jackets in exchange for a bulkier winter coat. 

Be safe, be seen 

Contractors should also make sure they are using 

the correct personal protection equipment (PPE). 

PPE is there for a reason, offering both practical 

individual protection and a hi visibility solution 

that reminds everyone on the job that they are 

operating in a risky environment. 

Finally, with the use of PPE essential for safety on 

site, it is vital that roofing professionals do not 

discard the high vis jacket in exchange for a 

bulkier winter coat. It is far more effective to layer 

up. This not only ensures the breadth of 

movement needed by busy workers, but it will 

deliver optimised warmth for the best health 

protection against the cold winter months. 

Helping hands 

An obvious and inexpensive tip is the 

recommended use of strong gloves and durable 

hats to keep hands and heads protected and 

warm. Snoods are also a great way to provide 

extra warmth without getting in the way of getting 

the job done. 

Body heat is lost through exposed extremities 

leading to increased fatigue as the body works 

harder to keep warm in cold or wet conditions. 

For jobs where hand dexterity is required, 

gloves may be inconvenient, but making the 

effort to keep hands and fingers well-wrapped 

will minimise discomfort and help alleviate the 

creeping impact of colder temperatures on 

skin and bones. 

Roofers often need to use machinery to resize 

tiles or other roofing structure components. 

Again, handling machinery that vibrates can 

lead to issues such as hand-arm vibration 

syndrome when the body is cold, making it more 

important than ever to keep well covered. 

Don’t forget feet 

Unfortunately, roofers are more prone to colds, 

chest infections, injuries and fatigue as a result 

of working out in low temperatures or enduring 

downpours. 

The role of appropriate footwear should also 

never be underestimated when dealing with 

slippery, icy, or wet conditions. Water-resistant 

and robust boots, or ice grips on soles, not only 

help provide a sound footing for roofers, but they 

will also ensure day-long comfort and increased 

confidence when on roofscapes. 

As part of its Winter Safety campaign, Marley is 

giving away hundreds of branded snoods – claim 

yours at www.marley.co.uk/wintersafety 

Contact Marley 

01283 722588 

www.marley.co.uk 

Marley 


NFRC Roofing Talk 

CHALLENGES & OPPORTUNITIES IN 

THE YEAR AHEAD 

James Talman (pictured), CEO of NFRC, discusses the roofing trade association’s priorities 

and ambitions over the next twelve months. 

2024 will be a year of change and 

transformation to the landscape in which 

the roofing industry operates. The 

Construction Products Association (CPA) predicts 

limited recovery to construction output this year, 

but it will still be all change on regulation, 

competency, and perhaps much more after the 

promised general election. 

NFRC’s goals are thus angled to support 

Members through these challenges, whilst 

maintaining a mission to proactively take on 

long-term and future issues for the industry. 

Skills and labour 

Ongoing feedback from Members and data from 

our quarterly State of the Roofing Industry survey 

supports that labour will remain a challenge into 

2024. Many will need to take action to keep their 

entitlement to a CSCS card once ‘Grandfather 

Rights’ have ended, and the NFRC Assessment 

Service is one of the providers that can deliver 

site-based assessment to make sure experienced 

operatives can carry on as usual. 

We are also expanding our efforts to provide 

information to young people, parents and career 

changers on the opportunities available within 

the roofing industry via the NFRC Careers 

Service, and 2024 will see us embark on 

actioning the first parts of a comprehensive Skills 

Strategy in response to industry needs. This will 

fit into wider initiatives such as working with 

NHBC and the HBF to develop on-site roofing 

masterclasses, which were valuably influenced 

by learnings from the RoofCERT programme on 

more common gaps in knowledge for operatives. 

Poor payment practices 

The risk of having to cease trading will be a 

concern for some businesses in the coming 

months as economic conditions look 

unlikely to improve at any great speed. 

Late payments and retentions are an 

unacceptable contributing factor to 

many insolvencies, and we will be 

continuing our campaign on the importance 

of ending cash retentions in 2024. There are 

several strands to this topic and a priority is to 

end abuse of the current process. Access to cash 

is crucial to businesses’ investment in skills, 

technology, and their survival. 

Solar surge 

Sustainability, and translating green ambitions 

into practical measures to support the roofing 

industry, will continue to be in focus. For 

example, NFRC has participated in the 

Government's review of substantially increasing 

the use of solar PV, of which obviously roofing has 

a key role to play. It is vital that solar design and 

installation on rooftops is done by individuals 

with the relevant roofing expertise. 

Competence counts 

However, the biggest change in construction, 

perhaps for generations, is now upon us. 

Building safety, and its associated 

requirements regarding competency, will have 

fundamental impacts on how we build from 

now on. The onus to get this done starts at the 

top, with competency requirements for principal 

designers and contractors enacted and the 

register of building control professionals live from 

the 1st April 2024. Initiatives such as the Code 

for Construction Product Information and 

widescale efforts to get operatives assessed for 

their levels of competency are key actions this 

year. The industry needs to take small, regular 

steps to higher standards. NFRC is actively 

working with the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) 

and relevant stakeholders in setting 

relevant competency standards. 

Our NFRC Competent Person Scheme 

(CPS) business, which now sits under 

the responsibility of the BSR, has a key 

role to play in certifying compliance and 

introducing mandated individual competencies. 

Contractors who are registered with CPS are 

increasingly seeing the benefit of their third-party 

accreditation which is an essential requirement in 

the regulated market. We are also continuing to roll 

out inspections of NFRC Trade Members through 

our CPS business, providing third-party 

independence and impartiality. 

In addition to these areas of work, NFRC as a trade 

association will always be there to help and advise 

our Members with technical guidance, finding the 

right people for your business, and much more. We 

will continue to encourage community, 

cooperation, and the celebration of excellence 

through our regions, with the UK Roofing Awards, 

skills competitions – including this year’s 

international championship in Switzerland – and 

the many opportunities to get more involved in the 

work of your trade association. 

Hence, while 2024 may present challenges, a 

wealth of opportunities certainly remain to take 

your business and the industry in the right 

direction. Those who commit to developing the 

skills and competency of their workforce and to 

following the emerging regulatory framework, 

should reap the rewards. If you need guidance to 

do so, you know where we are. 

Contact NFRC 

020 7638 7663 

www.nfrc.co.uk 

NFRC 


Skills & Development 

BUILDING NEW HORIZONS: THE 

IMPORTANCE OF APPRENTICESHIPS 

In this column for Total Contractor, Fraser Biles of BMI UK & Ireland explores the role of 

apprenticeships in nurturing the next generation of roofers, and points to the importance 

of events like the BMI Apprenticeship of the Year competition which takes place in July... 

Today’s roofing industry is shaped by 

traditional skills, seamlessly integrated with 

new techniques and technologies that are 

supporting the transformation of roofscapes 

across the country. Apprenticeships play a vital 

role in safeguarding this winning combination, 

with new industry entrants learning directly from 

experienced contractors, ensuring practical skills 

and insights are passed on to the next generation. 

This fuels the development of a highly skilled 

workforce for an industry that requires technically 

complex skills. 

National Apprenticeship Week, the annual 

celebration of the importance of apprenticeships 

for individuals and businesses, encapsulates the 

value of this route into the industry. This year, the 

celebration is framed by the theme of ‘skills for 

life’, reflecting the transformational impact that 

successful apprenticeships can have on careers. 

This is especially true in the roofing industry, 

where craft and passion combine to underpin 

quality installations time after time. 

Fraser Biles of 

BMI UK & Ireland. 

At BMI, we have long believed in the power of 

training and apprenticeships in building the 

workforce of tomorrow. Through the BMI Academy, 

we are dedicated to delivering industry-leading 

training to professionals right across the industry. 

To directly support colleges and training centres in 

delivering training, the Academy offers a dedicated 

engagement programme, sharing expertise and 

resources for the benefit of apprentices. 

But supporting apprenticeships is only one part of 

Euan Forsyth was 

crowned BMI Apprentice 

of the Year 2023 in the 

Pitched Roofing category. 

the puzzle. Celebrating the achievements of new 

entrants to the industry is just as important – 

something that we, together with employers and 

training colleges, do through the annual BMI 

Apprentice of the Year competition. 

Now in its seventh year, the competition is set to 

celebrate the most promising talent coming into the 

industry today, and provides an opportunity for 

individuals to showcase their skills on the national 

stage. This year, the competition is set around the 

theme of ‘building new horizons’, which 

demonstrates the potential of apprenticeships in 

roofing – both for apprentices and their employers. 

We have seen how apprentices embarking on 

their careers in roofing have the full support of 

their employers, as well as their colleges and 

training centres, helping them to build the skills 

to carve out a successful career. Naturally, there 

are clear benefits for their employers, too. Like 

much of the construction industry, roofing is 

subject to widespread skills shortages, but these 

gaps can be filled through successful 

apprenticeship programmes. For roofing 

businesses investing in apprenticeships and 

training, this can result in a reliable supply of 

talent that can position their businesses for 

success over the long-term. 

This year’s Apprentice of the Year competition opens 

for entries on February 5th, so head to 

www.bmigroup.com/uk/bmiacademy/apprentice-of-the-year 

for details on 

how to enter. 

Contact BMI UK & Ireland 

www.bmigroup.com/uk/ 

BMI UK & Ireland 


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Installation Training Courses 

hosted by expert technicians. 

Specification, calculation, & 

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Site visits, roof surveys, core 

samples, adhesion tests, etc. 

Regular site inspections 

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CPD Presentations by our 

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10 to 35 year warranties, 

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Ask A. Proctor 

BREATHER MEMBRANES & ROOFING 

UNDERLAYS: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE? 

The team A. Proctor Group explain all... 

Many people use these terms 

interchangeably. BS 5250:2021, 

Management of moisture in 

buildings – Code of Practice, defines a 

breather or vapour permeable membrane as 

one with a vapour resistance lower than 

Sd 0.12m (0.6MNS/g). These are generally 

considered walling 

membranes. 

Underlays are then split into 

two main categories, High 

Resistance, or HR underlays 

and Low Resistance, or LR 

underlays. HR underlays are equivalents to the 

traditional 1F felts and will require full ventilation 

below them. LR Underlays must have a vapour 

resistance below Sd 0.05m (0.25MNS/g). 

There are other key performance criteria that are 

required, i.e. water resistance. Walling underlays 

require a minimum Water Hold Out Classification 

of W2, whereas roof underlays are required to be 

W1 which is more onerous to achieve. A further 

distinction is the air permeability or airtightness 

of the underlay, both have benefits depending on 

the design. 

What are the benefits of air permeability 

in a roof? 

Air permeable low resistance (APLR) underlays 

allow air to circulate through the layers of the 

membrane, in combination with having low 

vapour resistance. Airtight underlays, the most 

common type in the UK, allow vapour to disperse 

via diffusion through the layers, having been 

made with a microporous film layer in the middle 

of the underlay. Air permeable underlays allow 

vapour dispersal by two mechanisms, diffusion, 

as well as in the air passing through the underlay. 

This is down to the unique meltblown core. 

Images: Proctor Air Valley detail (above), 

eaves detail (left). 

Assessments carried out by 

BRE and Glasgow 

Caledonian University have 

shown that air movement 

through the underlay increases the vapour 

removal from the roof and can be similar to that 

achieved by both eaves and ridge ventilation. The 

ability to remove ventilation from the roof can be 

a huge benefit with the increased need for 

insulation, and the difficulty in maintaining 

ventilation pathways, stopping cold bridging, as 

well as making complex and historic roofs easier 

to detail and more aesthetically pleasing. 

“Underlays are NOT 

designed to be primary 

weatherproofing 

layers – they should 

not be relied on as a 

temporary protection 

during adverse 

weather” 

If you are building a project that is NHBC 

registered, the use of an air permeable underlay 

can also mitigate the requirement for high level 

ventilation in cold roof constructions – this 

ventilation is required where an airtight underlay 

is used. 

Proctor Air falls into the category of APLR and 

therefore can be used without vents. For 

project specific advice our Technical Team 

are on hand to review your designs. 

How does Proctor Air perform in 

extremes of weather? 

Developing Proctor Air allowed us to look at 

what the membrane needed to do, which 

therefore meant we could enhance attributes that 

are important for the UK climate, i.e. wind, rain 

and UV exposure. 

Underlays are NOT designed to be primary 

weatherproofing layers, and as per BS 

5534:2014, Code of practice for slating and tiling, 

they should not be relied on as a temporary 

protection during adverse weather, such as 

storms and freeze/thaw cycles. In these 

conditions, especially re-roofs, the use of a 

protection layer, i.e. tarpaulin, should be 

considered. UV exposure guidance relates to the 

effects of sunlight on the membrane and does not 

mean that the membrane will remain water 

resistant for this length of time. Proctor Air 

contains hydrophobic additives in all three layers 

to help improve water resistance. 

Wind uplift resistance is also excellent with 

Proctor Air. At 345mm batten centres it can be 

used in Zones 1-4 in the UK and with centres at 

250mm, or laps sealed with Wraptite Tape, it can 

be used in Zones 1-5. 

Does Proctor Air have a warranty? 

Yes, it does. We are delighted to be able to offer a 

15-year warranty on Proctor Air. Details of this can 

be found in our literature and installation guide. 

Contact A. Proctor Group 

A.Proctor Group Ltd. 

proctorgroup.com 


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Ventilation 

IN-ROOF SOLAR ROOFING: SHINING A 

LIGHT ON NHBC’S NEW GUIDANCE 

Matt Neary, from leading roofing products manufacturer Glidevale Protect, takes a closer 

look at the new NHBC guidance and the choice of roofing underlay and ventilation solutions 

available to help lower condensation risk when using integrated, in-roof solar PV panels. 

At the end of 2023 the National House 

Building Council (NHBC) published 

new standards for 2024 which 

included guidance on the use of integrated 

in-roof solar PV panels, how they are 

classified and what associated ventilation 

strategies are therefore required, in 

alignment with requirements set 

down in BS 5250. The standards 

apply with immediate effect to 

every new home registered with 

the NHBC where the foundations are 

started on or after 1st January 2024. 

So, what do contractors need to know? 

Air permeable or air impermeable? That is 

the question! 

It’s important to have clarity on whether roofs 

with solar panels are classed as being air 

permeable or air impermeable, and the new 

NHBC guidance aims to address this head on. 

The new NHBC Standards contain revisions to 

clause 7.2.15 ‘Ventilation, vapour control and 

insulation’, stipulating that where arrays of 

integrated in-roof solar PV panels are used, the 

whole roof covering should be treated as air 

impermeable unless the solar panel 

manufacturer is able to demonstrate their system 

is air permeable. 

As a result, roofs with integrated PV panels will 

now be classed as air impermeable as standard, 

even if the roof tiles themselves are air permeable. 

So a small number of PV panels would render the 

whole roof impermeable and should be treated as 

such, unless it can be proven otherwise. And as an 

air impermeable roof covering, there is a higher 

risk of interstitial condensation on the underside of 

Left: Matt Neary. Above: Protect A1 Solar underlay. 

the underlay, the external covering and 

behind the solar panel arrays if the correct 

ventilation strategy is not used. 

What does this mean in terms of roofing 

underlays? 

When a low vapour resistance (LR) membrane or 

vapour permeable ‘breather’ membrane underlay 

is used on a warm or cold roof in conjunction with 

integrated, in-roof solar PV panels, Glidevale 

Protect’s recommended best practice is to install 

counter battens. Using 25mm deep counter 

battens with a minimum free ventilation area of 

not less than 25,000mm²/m at eaves or low level, 

and 5,000mm²/m continuous air gap each side of 

the ridge or at high level is advised. On a cold 

roof, ventilation is also required under the 

membrane at 7,000mm²/m at eaves level with a 

normal ceiling, or 3,000mm²/m at eaves with a 

well sealed ceiling. Alternatively, it is also 

accepted to ventilate with 5,000 mm²/m at ridge 

instead of 3,000 mm²/m at eaves if there is a 

well sealed ceiling. Without the use of counter 

battens with an LR underlay, the risk of interstitial 

condensation forming on the underside of the 

solar panels increases, as the water vapour will 

pass through the membrane but cannot escape 

into the atmosphere. 

One alternative option when using an LR 

underlay on a cold roof however, as detailed 

in BS 5250, is not to counter batten but 

ventilate underneath the underlay as if it was 

an HR underlay, thereby requiring eaves level 

ventilation and additional ridge ventilation, 

the latter only required subject to the roof’s 

pitch, span and if classified as a mono pitch. 

An alternative solution to using an LR underlay 

where in-roof solar is being installed would be to 

use a high vapour resistance (HR) or impermeable 

non-breather underlay which is designed to prevent 

moisture from transferring through the underlay 

and reaching the exterior layers above the 

membrane, thereby not requiring the use of counter 

battens. Ventilation would still be required 

underneath the underlay on both cold and warm 

roofs, with cold roofs requiring 10,000mm²/m at 

eaves level and 5,000mm²/m at ridge, the ridge 

ventilation only being required when the roof pitch 

is over 35 degrees, a span over 10m or a mono 

pitch. Warm roofs require additional airflow with 

25,000mm²/m required at eaves or low level and 

5,000mm²/m at ridge or high level. 

The key takeaways 

When it comes to installing integrated PV panels 

as part of the roofing structure, the appropriate 

ventilation strategy needs to be factored in from 

the outset. To discuss your individual project 

requirements and how the updates to the NHBC 

Standards will affect new roofing specifications 

using in-roof solar PV, please contact Glidevale 

Protect at technical@glidevaleprotect.com or 

0161 905 5700. 

Contact Glidevale Protect 

www.glidevaleprotect.com 


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Advertorial 

DON & LOW INVESTIGATES KEY 

FACTOR TRIGGERING ROOFING 

MEMBRANE LEAKS 

Don & Low, the UK's only vertically integrated manufacturer and creator of Roofshield®, 

became aware of a number of water leakage cases over the past year, the majority of which 

occurred around the time powerful storms Babet and Ciaran struck the country. The 

company has initiated a continuing investigation into this problem, and Will Campbell, 

Head of Sales at Don & Low, discusses some of the latest findings… 

Will, I was hoping you could fill us in on 

the background of this investigation. For 

what reasons did Don & Low choose to 

become involved in solving this roofing 

membrane leakage puzzle? 

Don & Low manufactures 

Roofshield, a leading air and 

vapour permeable roofing 

underlay 

For us at Don & Low, it was the right thing to do; 

our duty to the construction industry, which we 

have served tirelessly for nearly three decades. 

Don & Low has maintained a steadfast 

commitment to ethical decision-making, 

regulatory compliance, and societal and 

environmental accountability ever since its 

inception in 1972. 

So, given that Roofshield® is the leading air and 

vapour permeable roofing underlay, and is widely 

used across the UK and Ireland, it was hardly 

surprising that we were among the first to get 

informed about cases of roofing membrane 

leakages across the UK. As a responsible 

member of the construction industry, we had to 

investigate this issue. 

What led Don & Low to the discovery of 

the battens problem? 

Don & Low is the UK’s only vertically integrated 

manufacturer, which means we have total control 

over our roofing membrane production. Thus, we 

were very confident in Roofshield’s performance 

and reliability, especially considering that it has 

been manufactured exclusively and with the 

utmost precision in our Forfar facilities since 

1996, using the finest materials that ensure its 


exceptional properties. However, even if it was 

clear to us that Roofshield was not to blame, we 

still needed to figure out why the water leak 

incidents occurred in the first place. There must 

have been some reason. 

Through ongoing testing, it has been established 

that leaks in membranes are frequently tied to 

the presence of timber treatments on certain 

battens commonly used in roofing applications. 

Notably, specific chemical components within 

timber treatments potentially impact all synthetic 

membranes. This testing, stemming from Don & 

Low’s technical expertise, reveals a significant 

concern affecting the entire roofing industry. 

But why now? What’s changed between 

2022 and 2023? 

Several factors have contributed to the increased 

incidence of treated timber causing this effect. 

The change in the supply chain for roofing 

battens, affected by COVID-19 disruptions and 

geopolitical events like the Ukraine-Russia war, 

has led to an emergence of non-traditional batten 

manufacturers, and these are coupled with 

different treatment processes and exceptional 

rainfall. During 2023, the UK timber market has 

been grappling with quality issues and incorrect 

grading to BS 5534. 

“Contractors should 

adhere to the 

installation guidelines 

and best practices” 

Don & Low’s ongoing testing into issues of leaks 

has established a link between the presence of 

certain chemical components within timber 

treatments leaching from saturated battens, 

affecting the performance of membranes. A 

common factor found throughout the majority of 

investigated installations was the presence of 

contamination on/in the membranes that 

compromised the water holdout performance. 

So, it is evident that we are not discussing 

a Roofshield issue. 

Absolutely. We recently commissioned the BRE, the 

UK’s renowned science-led construction research 

facility, to subject Roofshield® to extreme weather 

testing. The testing, designed for primary roof 

coverings, was carried out with dry battens known 

not to contain chemicals that compromise water 

holdout, and a variety of pitch angles were used to 

assess the effect on low and high pitch roofs. The 

results were conclusive: Roofshield® showed zero 

leaks, exceeding the required standards for airpermeable 

roofing underlays. 

Designed and manufactured in the UK, 

Roofshield® has been tried, tested, and trusted 

by the industry since 1996, and is certified by the 

BBA. All Don & Low products undergo rigorous 

testing, and these findings underscore that 

Roofshield remains reliable. Don & Low, as 

industry leaders in vertical manufacturing of 

construction membranes, stand behind its 

integrity. 

What suggestions do you have for 

contractors in consideration of your 

ongoing investigation? 

Contractors should adhere to the installation 

guidelines and best practices. Battens should be 

dry to prevent chemicals from leaching onto the 

membrane, and battens should not be treated in 

situ. We have observed the growing reports of 

skin issues by roofing contractors online and 

would advise wearing the correct PPE. Further 

enquiries can be directed to our construction 

hotline at 0808 169 4444, where our team of 

experts is always ready to assist. 

Contact Don & Low 

www.donlow.co.uk 

Don & Low Ltd. 


While it is good to have a choice of so 

Blue-Green Roofs 

NAVIGATING THE GREENER SIDE 

OF ROOFING 

Britain’s green and blue roof markets are brimming with potential. Justin Pitman, Sales 

Director for Proteus Waterproofing, points out that as long ago as 2017, industry experts 

were suggesting market growth of 17% year on year for the green roof sector alone – and he 

says they’ve not been wrong. According to Justin, this demand has created a veritable army 

of different specialists from designers and landscapers, to waterproofing experts and 

maintenance providers, but in this article Justin asks has this in turn caused a problem for 

building owners and end users? 

many experts, experience has shown 

that this kind of fragmentation can lead 

to miscommunication, inefficiencies and 

ultimately, diffused accountability if something 

goes wrong – but it does not have to be like that. 

As the market becomes more sophisticated and 

demanding, it is clear that more and more 

building owners are looking for the one-stopshop 

to cover every facet of their green or blue 

roof journey. For companies like ours it 

starts at the initial design and 

specification stage, where we 

collaborate with architects and 

landscapers to develop a customised 

solution that aligns with their aesthetic, 

functional, and budget goals. 

It continues with meticulous installation by our 

highly trained and accredited contracting teams. 

The building owner then receives one warranty 

covering every aspect of the project, to ensure 

that we are their trusted partner every step of the 

way. 

As already stated, the UK's green and blue roof 

markets offer massive potential for growth and 

the ability to improve our environment. While 

estimating precise figures for market size can be 

challenging, due to the fragmented data 

available, we can identify several positive trends. 

The UK green roof market was estimated to be 

worth £58 million in 2017 (source: Living Roofs). 

Left: Justin Pitman. Above: Completed project by Proteus Waterproofing. 

While data on dedicated blue roof 

market size is relatively scarce, a CIRIA 

(Construction Industry Research and Information) 

report in 2018 estimated the broader market for 

rainwater harvesting and SuDS (Sustainable 

Drainage Systems) technologies in the UK to be 

around £3 billion. Given the growing interest in 

blue roofs as part of integrated solutions, it's safe 

to assume a significant portion of this market 

value is attributable to blue roof systems. 

This means that the future of both green and blue 

roofs in the UK looks incredibly promising. Market 

analysts predict significant growth trajectories 

driven by several factors. Government initiatives 

like SuDS requirements and grant programmes 

for rainwater harvesting are expected to stimulate 

demand for both green and blue roofs still further. 

With extreme weather events becoming more 

frequent, the benefits of green and blue roofs for 

mitigating urban heat island effects, managing 

stormwater runoff, and improving air quality are 

also gaining increased recognition. 

Based on these trends, projections indicate that 

the UK green roof market could reach 

£140 million by 2028, representing a substantial 

increase from the current size (source: Living 

Roofs). In broader terms we can see a 

£5-10 billion market size by 2030 for rainwater 

harvesting and the SuDS sector, with a significant 

portion likely attributable to blue roof systems 

(source: CIRIA). 

So, we can see that the UK’s green and blue roof 

landscapes are flourishing. At Proteus 


Waterproofing, we're not just witnessing this 

transformation – we like to think that we are 

actively helping to shape it. 

As experts in this area, we recognised a long time 

ago that gone are the days of strictly green or 

blue roof – the future lies in blending the best of 

both worlds. Hybrid roofs are emerging as the 

stars of the show, combining vegetation with 

integrated blue roof elements such as retention 

ponds, storage tanks, and treatment systems. 

This synergistic approach optimises water 

management, creates stunning aesthetics, and 

fosters diverse ecosystems. 

The green and blue roof revolution is also being 

fuelled by a wave of technological advancements. 

Smart irrigation systems, automated monitoring 

tools, and even sensors embedded in living layers 

are optimising resource management, enhancing 

plant health, and providing real-time data for 

proactive maintenance. 

“With extreme weather events becoming more 

frequent, the benefits of green and blue roofs are 

also gaining increased recognition” 

At Proteus Waterproofing, we understand the 

immense potential of these innovative solutions. 

As a one-stop-shop for green and blue roofs, our 

technical team is able to seamlessly navigate the 

design, installation, and comprehensive aftercare 

package, with a single, unified warranty for 

complete peace of mind. We embrace the latest 

technological advancements and materials to 

deliver high-performance, efficient, and visually 

stunning green and blue roofs. 

We prioritise practices that are verified and 

certified for their environmental benefits 

throughout every stage of the project, minimising 

the carbon footprint and maximising the positive 

impact of the roof. 

Our solutions are designed in compliance with 

SuDS requirements, ensuring effective 

management of rainwater and contributing to 

urban flood prevention. 

Without doubt, the UK's green and blue roof 

revolution is gathering momentum, driven by 

compelling trends, undeniable growth potential, 

and a profound desire for a greener future. At 

Proteus Waterproofing, we're not just observers – 

we're active participants, helping to shape this 

landscape with innovation, dedication, and a 

deep commitment to sustainability – and this is 

just the start of the journey. 

Contact Proteus Waterproofing 

01268 777871 

www.proteuswaterproofing.co.uk 

Proteus Waterproofing 

For further r 

inform 

ation 

or a hire quotation call 

01858 412 100 

Email: sales@cookerhire.com 

www.cookerhire.com

Project Focus 

BESPOKE SYSTEM FROM KALZIP FOR 

PASSIVHAUS SCHOOL 

Abespoke roofing system from Kalzip 

has been chosen for Scotland’s 

first Passivhaus School in North 

Muirton, Scotland. The system was 

chosen for its incredible sustainability 

benefits, along with its speed of 

installation. 

The new £16.5 million school will be built 

on the site of the current North Muirton Primary 

School and will have a capacity for 500 pupils, 

incorporating a nursery and additional support 

needs (ASN) provision each with their own 

dedicated outdoor space. 

The roofing system was developed by Kalzip 

alongside architects Architype and Curtis Moore 

contractors to achieve these demanding 

standards through Kalzip’s thermal modelling and 

demonstration of the life cycle of Kalzip’s 

products, along with the sustainability of the 

system, which were all achieved. 

The Passivhaus Standard represents an inclusive 

approach to design, aiming to create buildings 

that offer exceptional comfort to occupants while 

minimizing energy usage for heating and cooling 

purposes. The forthcoming school project is 

committed to attaining this standard, which will 

lead to a substantial decrease of 60-80% in 

energy consumption. As a result, this reduction 

will contribute to carbon emissions reduction 

while simultaneously lowering operational and 

maintenance expenses. Achieving the Passivhaus 

Standard entails a comprehensive focus on 

efficient design and construction practices, as 

well as careful material selection to ensure 

optimal building efficiency throughout every 

phase of the project. 

A Kalzip Built Up Insulated System with structural 

deck roof was installed on the school with a 

U-value of 0.10W/m 2 K to achieve Passivhaus 

Artist’s impression: North 

Muirton Primary School. 

“The Kalzip system is 

ideal where speed of 

installation on a 

project is of utmost 

importance” 

standards. This system was a bespoke solution 

for the school, but the main product is used 

predominantly for new build construction, 

although it can also be used as a refurbishment 

solution in the event of a failed roof, or when 

building improvements are being considered. 

The Kalzip system is ideal where speed of 

installation on a project is of utmost importance. 

A non-fragile Kalzip liner sheet can be quickly 

installed to provide a temporary weather cover to 

allow other trades to work below. The remainder 

of the roofing components can then be installed 

without affecting the critical path of the 

construction programme. 

The architectural plans for the building were 

meticulously crafted following extensive 

consultation with the local community. They will 

offer top-notch educational facilities, including 16 

classrooms, with an additional two classrooms 

reserved for potential future school expansion. 

The building will also house provisions for 

Additional Support Needs (ASN), group study 

rooms, a versatile multi-use hall, a kitchen area, 

staff amenities, a multi-use games area (MUGA) 

pitch for both school and community use, 

and a nursery facility that will operate 

throughout 50 weeks each year. 

There was some complexity to the project in 

which Kalzip provided assistance and early 

collaboration was key for this project, with 

the design challenges that needed to be 

achieved while also working to Passivhaus 

standards. There was also some difficulty in 

focusing on every element from structure to the 

individual fixings as each aspect required precise 

U-value calculations, with no room for error, in 

which Kalzip’s technical expertise was crucial for 

the success of the project. 

Councillor Caroline Shiers, Lifelong Learning 

Convener, Perth & Kinross Council, said: “This is 

a very exciting development as part of the 

Council’s work to transform the school estate in 

Perth and Kinross. We aim through this project to 

both enhance education provision for children in 

the north of Perth, but also support a more 

environmentally friendly learning and teaching 

environment – as one of the first Passivhaus 

primary schools to be built in Scotland." 

North Muirton also meets the ambitions of Perth 

& Kinross Council as they work towards a Zero 

Carbon agenda, as the Council’s Interim Chief 

Executive, Barbara Renton, explained: “We want 

to ensure that our buildings, from offices to 

schools, are energy efficient, cost-effective to run 

and maintain, and contribute to an improved 

environment. Using the Passivhaus Standard for 

the new primary school in North Perth enables us 

to address all three areas at once through carbon 

reduction being built into the design and 

construction process.” 

Contact Kalzip 

Kalzip 

www.kalzip.com/en/ 


Roofing Updates 

CCPI FOCUS FOR SIKA 

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

Sika has established itself as an early 

adopter of the Code for Construction Product 

Information (CCPI), which has been published 

to drive higher standards in the presentation 

of construction product information within 

the manufacturing industry. 

Sika is one of the first product manufacturers to 

have achieved CCPI verification of its first four 

product sets for Single Ply Roof systems (gained 

in September), Hot Melt Structural Waterproofing, 

Liquid-applied and Reinforced Bituminous Roof 

Systems. The company says it maintains a strong 

focus on transparency, and by committing to the 

code it will provide further independent assurance 

and greater confidence in the information 

associated to its CCPI-verified product-sets. 

“We are delighted that Sika is an early adopter of 

the code,” said Mark Gatrell – Head of Business 

Unit Roofing for Sika in the UK. “In September we 

announced product set verification for our Single 

Ply Roof Systems, and now we have the pleasure 

of announcing that our Hot Melt Structural 

Waterproofing, Liquid-applied and Reinforced 

Bituminous Roof Systems have now achieved 

verification status. The Code is aiming to drive 

the highest standards in product information, 

setting a level playing field for all construction 

manufacturers to ensure that the information 

they provide is clear, accurate, up to date and 

unambiguous. We’re proud to be working 

proactively with the CCPI to raise standards in 

product information management.” 

www.sika.co.uk/roofing 

SWIFTRIDG & SWIFTRIDG+ SYSTEMS LAUNCHED 

Hambleside Danelaw has announced the launch of SwiftRidg and SwiftRidg+, the 

manufacturer’s new lead alternative GRP Roll Top Ridge and Hip Systems. 

The manufacturer says the patent pending SwiftRidg and SwiftRidg+ (GB Patent Application No: 

2308115.1) offer a light and durable alternative to lead, zinc, copper, and galvanised steel roll 

systems, and they are designed for use with slate and plain tile roofs at pitches from 20º to 50º. 

Tested by BRE to resist wind speeds exceeding 110mph, SwiftRidg and SwiftRidg+ come with a 20- 

year service life guarantee and are compliant with the requirements of BS 5534 and BS 8612. Hambleside Danelaw says there is no toxic or 

contaminated run off and they can therefore be used in rainwater harvesting systems. These roll top ridge and hip systems comprise of a 3m GRP roll 

profile suitable for use on both the ridge and hips with bespoke 3m fixing kits, including a new and unique omega bracket. The SwiftRidg+ kit includes 

an additional vent roll component to provide a ventilated option along the ridge in accordance with BS 5250 where required. To view the SwiftRidg and 

SwiftRidg+’s data sheet and installation recommendations, head over to www.hambleside-danelaw.co.uk, or contact a member of the team at: 

techelp@hambleside-danelaw.co.uk 

NEW ELEVATE BRANDED BROCHURES 

Following its rebrand, Elevate has launched a suite of newly designed brochures for installers and specifiers. 

Formerly known as Firestone Building Products, Elevate was launched in June last year and is now part of the Building Envelope 

division of parent company, Holcim. Featuring the Elevate branding, the new brochures detail the company’s long-established EPDM 

products, including RubberGard and RubberCover. Elevate RubberGard EPDM is a synthetic rubber single-ply membrane for flat and 

low slope roofs. Ideal for the commercial and industrial sectors, it is available in 1.1 and 1.5mm thickness. Designed for smaller 

residential flat roofs, Elevate RubberCover EPDM is for applications up to 150 sq m and is available in the same thicknesses as 

RubberGard EPDM. The new brochures outline the benefits of each product for installers and specifiers, providing installation advice, guidance on choosing the 

right system and details of Elevate’s support from concept to completion. Philip Moors, Managing Director of Elevate UK and Ireland, said: “Although our people, 

products and standards have all stayed the same since changing our name to Elevate, a lot of work has been done behind the scenes. This includes updating all 

our packaging and marketing materials. The new brochures are the next step in that process, highlighting our brand as well as the extensive benefits of Elevate’s 

EPDM roofing membranes for installers and specifiers working across sectors.” Downloaded the new brochures: https://www.holcimelevate.com/uk-en 


Roofing Updates 

SOUND AND DRAINAGE PROTECTION 

CMS Danskin Acoustics has a new sound 

reducing underlayment product specially 

developed for external surfaces, such as on 

rooftops, terraces and balconies, which also 

provides rainwater drainage and membrane 

protection. 

‘REGUPOL sound and drain 22’, exclusively 

available from CMS Danskin Acoustics in the UK, 

is a polyurethane elastomer composite with a 

dimpled profile on the underside to facilitate 

drainage and a geotextile-laminated top to 

prevent dirt penetration. It provides impact 

sound insulation with effective acoustic results 

in a range of different structures. 

CMS Danskin Acoustics’ Ian Bull said: “Sound 

insulation on roof terraces is just as important as 

indoor sound insulation because structure-borne 

sound from footfall or services plant, such as 

rooftop air conditioning units and heat pumps, is 

transmitted from the external surface to the 

building interior. However, most sound impact 

materials are unsuitable for outside 

applications; REGUPOL sound and drain 

has been developed for outdoor use.” 

‘REGUPOL sound and drain 22’ provides highimpact 

sound insulation levels of 28 to 37dB 

depending on the specific build-up, is rot-proof, 

largely resistant to ageing, gives good drainage 

and water flow capacity and functions as a 

protective layer. 

Acoustic test data is available for six floor 

assemblies, including varying thicknesses of 

concrete tiles, wooden decking boards and 

ceramic tiles, as well as test data confirming 

compressibility, fire, thermal and moisture 

behaviour and resistance to ageing. 

Made from recyclate, ‘REGUPOL sound and drain 

22’ is 15mm thick and has a load bearing 

capacity up to 50 kN/m². 

Projects to date include The 

Marienturm in Frankfurt am Main, a 38- 

storey building primarily occupied by offices, and 

36-38 Berkeley Square, a new office and retail 

development in London’s Mayfair. 

‘REGUPOL sound and drain 22’ is a Bronze level 

Cradle to Cradle Certified product. Cradle to 

Cradle is a multi-attribute standard for designing 

and making products that enable a healthy, 

equitable and sustainable future. Cradle to 

Cradle Certified is a registered trademark of the 

Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute. 

Distributed in the UK by CMS Danskin Acoustics, 

REGUPOL products are specified worldwide for 

their noise and vibration reduction properties. 

www.cmsdanskin.co.uk 

WHITESALES NAVIGATES HERITAGE CHALLENGES 

Whitesales has replaced the original timber rooflights in the Grade II* listed Birmingham Museum & Art 

Gallery with new bespoke aluminium rooflights, ready for the reopening of the museum during 2024. 

Built in 1885, the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery has long housed treasures from the likes of Edward Burne- 

Jones, William Morris and Dante Gabriel Rossetti, and has an unrivalled 2,000 piece Pre-Raphaelite collection. 

However, it closed in November 2022 for essential maintenance which has included electrical work, upgrading of 

the heating, lift replacement and roof repairs. The new rooflights were a key element in the roof repairs, so the 

challenge for Whitesales was to supply and install high performance, energy efficient replacements for the timber originals, which satisfied the 

constraints of the Grade II* listing and met the requirements of the City Council’s conservation office. The solution they developed included one bespoke 

Whitesales Monopitch 2610mm x 1260mm rooflight with vertical front face and sides set at 350mm, and two bespoke lantern rooflights with sides set at 

440mm and 450mm, all finished in an anthracite grey on the exterior and white on the interior, and all CWCT TN92 Class 2 non-fragile to ensure the 

safety of anyone walking on the roof. Whitesales worked closely with contractors ISG throughout the design and specification process. They visited the 

site for a survey, attended design meetings and delivered a sample to the site so that everyone on the client team was happy with what was being 

supplied in terms of both performance and aesthetics. They also ensured that the rooflights were all fabricated and safely delivered to site in 

manageable-sized elements to take into account the fact that access in and around the city centre site was difficult. Whitesales has a long standing 

relationship with ISG, based on the quality of the work carried out on previous projects. For ISG’s Trainee Construction Manager Ryan Linnecor, 

Whitesales impressed with their knowledge and experience on heritage schemes. He commented: “Whitesales had a clear understanding of the Grade 

II* listed scheme and the constraints that presented. They impressed us once again with their approach on how to undertake the work sympathetically 

and the finished installation is of a very high quality.” www.whitesales.co.uk 


INNOVATING FOR 45+ YEARS 

GB Patent Application 

No. 2308115.1 

INTRODUCING 

TM 

& 

TM 

A GRP alternative to the traditional 

lead, zinc and galvanised steel roll 

top ridge and hip system’s, with 

clipable components and a unique 

omega bracket. Provided in kits 

with a ventilated application 

option at ridge level. 

READ MORE 

FEATURES AND BENEFITS 

• Offers a light and durable alternative to lead, 

zinc and copper systems 

• Suitable for ridge and hip applications on roof 

pitches from 20º to 50º 

• Faster installation compared to metal alternatives 

• Suitable for warm and cold roof applications 

• Ventilated option at ridge level 

• No toxic or contamination run off; can be 

used for rain water harvesting 

• No theft value 

hambleside-danelaw.co.uk 

PITCHED ROOFING

Project Focus 

TOP MARKS 

We take a closer look at a student accommodation project 

where Proteus Facades provided the ideal facade solution... 

Anew 396-bedroom student accommodation 

building, in the west of Edinburgh city centre, 

has become the latest project to benefit from 

aluminium cladding panels manufactured by 

Proteus Facades. 

The £20.4m Westfield Road project in the heart of 

Edinburgh’s western district comprises of seven 

storeys, with Proteus HR crowning off the upper 

level. The project in Golgie, which was built on the 

site of an unused office and car showroom, offers a 

variety of enriching experiences onsite including an 

open-air private courtyard to the rear, rain gardens, 

onsite gym, 24-hour reception, games room and an 

‘activated’ façade at street level. This is achieved 

via the strategic placement of communal amenity 

areas along Westfield Road and Westfield Avenue, 

together with large format glazed screens, which 

ultimately will have a progressive influence on the 

wider area. Its location provides the occupants a 

space close by to all the primary university 

campuses, Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh Castle, and for 

sports fans Murrayfield Stadium is across the road! 

The structure is said to represent a seamless fusion 

of contemporary design and be a tribute to the 

neoclassical elegance found in Edinburgh’s New 

Town architecture. Embracing the uniformity and 

classical elements emblematic of Georgian 

architecture, this project pays homage to the city’s 

heritage while forging ahead in urban development. 

Westfield student accommodation is a singular 

block, designed to deliver an inspiring vision. The 

overall design was developed with the surrounding 

context in mind and was achieved by creating 

several datum lines which sympathetically respond 

to the neighbouring buildings. A pivotal element in 

achieving this synthesis of tradition and innovation 

was the application of Proteus HR 1.0mm precoated 

aluminium with Arconic Bronze Metallic and 

Arconic Silver Grey. The use of aluminium cladding 

allowed Fletcher Joseph Associates to get a 

naturally beautiful facade which resembled Scots 

slate and created a living surface that dances with 

the interplay of natural and artificial light. This 

deliberate design philosophy is said to create a 

warm and inviting ambience, which is crucial for 

evoking a sense of comfort and belonging, 

especially for students seeking a home from home. 

Pre-finished aluminium 

The installation of Proteus HR aluminium cladding, 

orchestrated by DNF Roofing & Cladding in 

partnership with Graham Construction, emerged as 

a defining aspect of the building’s current appeal, 

and is said to have become a key feature of the 

building’s design as it gives a sleek and modern 

look, while also providing excellent protection from 

the elements. 

Proteus HR is a market leading rainscreen cladding 

system that comprises an aluminium honeycomb 

core that has been structurally bonded between two 

thin gauges of lightweight metal skin. Proteus HR 

rainscreen cladding system is available in a wide 

range of materials and finishes, including 

aluminium, bronze, copper, brass, zinc, stainless 

steel, and various other options, which gives 

complete design freedom and can significantly 

enhance the visual aesthetic of a project. Fletcher 

Joseph Architects specified aluminium on this 

project for its adaptability and showcased its 

prowess by accommodating various designs while 

demanding minimal upkeep. 

Not only does pre-coated aluminium enhance the 

visual appeal, but it also provides robust protection 

against diverse weather conditions. It’s PvdF 

painted finish is highly corrosion resistant and 

highly resistant to fading, ensuring longevity and 

low maintenance – a crucial consideration in 

student accommodation settings. The exterior of the 

building adheres to the high standards of quality 

materials expected in the current trend for student 

living. That’s why the Proteus HR system with a pre 

coated aluminium veneer has been tested in 

accordance with EN13501, achieving a fire rating of 

A2-s1, d0. 

Approaching difficulties 

Overcoming challenges inherent in construction, 

particularly the constraints of tight site access and 

close proximity to the railway, speaks volumes 

about the project’s commitment to meticulous 

planning and execution, culminating in a product 

that epitomizes precision and excellence. 

Ben Howard, Project Manager, stated that: “an 

issue from a client perspective, was that the main 

elevation was on a main road and was therefore on 

the critical path for completion. We had to expedite 

this elevation to ensure that Graham construction 

were able to strike the scaffold in this area in time 

to avoid any delay costs. Due to the co-ordinated 

communication between Proteus and DNF, we were 

able to complete this project on time with minimal 

disruption to the surrounding areas.” 

Beacon of innovation 

Westfield Road was completed in the Summer of 

2022 and is now set to appeal widely to students 

who choose Edinburgh for their university studies. 

The impressive Westfield Road project 

redevelopment signifies a new and exciting future 

for the area. Beyond its functional brilliance, it is 

poised to captivate students seeking an immersive 

academic journey amidst the vibrant tapestry of 

Edinburgh’s cultural and architectural legacy. As a 

beacon of innovative design, this development 

stands tall, reflecting the city’s commitment to 

progressive, forward-thinking architectural 

endeavours. 

Contact Proteus Facades 

proteusfacades.com 


Cladding & Facades Updates 

DEMAND GROWS FOR FR-A PANELS 

Panel Systems, a leading supplier of 

architectural panels, is gearing up for a busy 

year ahead for its range of non-combustible 

FR-A glazing infill panels. 

Since launching the FR-A panels, Panel 

Systems has experienced strong demand from 

contractors switching to using non-combustible 

materials in external walls of buildings over 

11m in height, in order to meet the latest 

Approved Document B Building Regulations. In 

these cases, building materials must now be 

Euroclass A1 or A2-s1, d0. 

Manufactured at the company’s centrally 

located UK facility to approved IOS 9001:2015 

management standards, the FR-A panels 

achieve A2-s1,d0 classification when tested 

against the procedures detailed in EN 13501- 

1:2018. These non-combustible architectural 

panels are suitable for both glazing and curtain 

walling applications. 

A spokesperson for Panel Systems, 

said: “Our FR-A panels provide 

architects, developers and 

contractors with peace of mind 

when specifying panels to achieve 

the latest building regulations. 

These panels have been really popular, and we 

expect to see demand rise even further.” 

The FR-A panels are available with both Anodised 

and Powder Coated (PPC) aluminium facings, in a 

variety of thicknesses. Each panel goes through a 

controlled manufacturing process, which includes 

stringent quality checks on each component to 

ensure they meet the required standard of the 

tested specifications. As well as meeting fire 

safety regulations, Panel Systems’ FR-A panels 

offer excellent aesthetics and are available in a 

range of colours and finishes. 

Each panel is made up of a fire 

resisting, non-combustible core 

of Nexus Stonewool Lamella, the 

fire safe material for composite 

structures. This core has superb 

integrity, rigidity, flatness and 

built-in structural performance, 

and its uniform vertical fibre structure provides 

optimum mechanical performance. The unique 

open filament net allows a strong adhesive 

bond, which is complemented by Panel 

Systems’ adhesives, which are applied to 

ensure uniform, consistent coating. 

The FR-A panels have been carefully designed 

and engineered to offer architects and 

developers a wider choice when specifying 

glazing and curtain walling materials that meet 

the strict building regulations for fire safety. 

www.panelsystems.co.uk 

VIVALDA LAUNCHES METSKIN SYSTEM 

Vivalda Group has expanded its product range to 

include MetSkin, a new, UK designed and 

manufactured solid aluminium cladding system. 

Supplied as a whole tested and warranted system, 

MetSkin is manufactured within the group by MSP 

Façade Solutions, which has more than 30 years’ 

experience in high performance cladding production. 

Available in Interlocking Plank (2mm thickness), 

Hook-on Cassette (3mm thickness) or Tray Panel 

(3mm thickness) Systems, MetSkin is fabricated 

using premium grade, non-flammable, solid 

aluminium sheet. Once formed, this is then powder 

coated on-site to the globally recognised Qualicoat 

standard. This chrome-free, environmentally 

friendly process is undertaken by sister company 

Prism Powder Coating, which has also gained Akzo 

Nobel approved applicator status. 

In addition to being available in more than 740 

RAL colours, MetSkin can also be supplied in an 

A1 anodised finish or A1 PVDF pre-coated 

aluminium, providing architects and specifiers 

with limitless creative possibilities. 

Andy Thomas, Trading Director at Vivalda Group, 

explained: “MetSkin represents an important step 

for us, adding the manufacture of a fully tested 

system to our established business as the UK’s 

biggest cladding distributor. While we are already 

well-known by contractors for the supply of worldclass, 

non-flammable cladding materials including 

fibre cement, GRC, terracotta and solid aluminium, 

it’s exciting to be able to provide customers with our 

own fully approved and tested envelope system. 

“We see a significant market for this product in 

the UK, on both new build and retrofit 

developments. We have worked hard during the 

two-year development phase to create a 

complete solution for architects and specifiers – 

MetSkin has been tested to CWCT standards at an 

accredited test centre and is distributed exclusively through 

the Vivalda Group, which includes Vivalda, BBS Facades and 

Pura Facades. 

matching existing colours or helping them bring to 

life their latest vision. For contractors, this means 

that we supply a total A-rated, tested system, 

including fixings, rails and ancillary products 

such as membranes and insulation as required. 

“We’ve designed MetSkin with creativity in mind, 

which allows the use of various substructure 

configurations, without compromising on the 

safety or aesthetics of the façade. We’ve also not 

forgotten about contractors and made our system 

easy to order and easy to install.” 

www.vivalda.co.uk 


WRAPTITE FITS FOR ISLE OF MAN SEA FRONT PROJECT 

The Wraptite external air barrier system 

from A. Proctor Group, selected as part of 

the façade upgrade to a sea-facing 

property in Douglas, Isle of Man, will help 

achieve energy efficiency targets and 

ensure protection from the elements. 

The Peveril Buildings, previously home to the 

Lloyds Banking Group for 20 years, is 

situated in the centre of the Isle of Man’s 

Business District, opposite Douglas Sea 

Terminal. The iconic property is one of the 

first office buildings to be seen by visitors 

arriving by ferry. 

Based in Ballasalla on the island, Excel 

Construction Group was appointed to 

upgrade the facade and improve the 

building’s structure, aesthetics, and energy 

efficiency. 

Andrew Burley, Quantity Surveyor at the Excel 

Group, explained why Wraptite, the only selfadhering 

vapour permeable air barrier certified 

by the BBA, was selected. He said: “We chose 

Wraptite for the breather membrane because of 

its effectiveness as a vapour barrier and 

durability. In addition, the nature of Wraptite, 

being a self-adhesive fix rather than the 

traditional use of staples and mechanical fixing, 

assisted with the durability in the high wind 

conditions prevalent on the seafront location. 

“Wraptite provided the building fabric with 

excellent protection from the coastal elements 

prior to installing the Gebrik panels. We will 

definitely be using Wraptite on future projects.” 

Wraptite combines the critical properties of 

vapour permeability and airtightness in one 

self-adhering membrane. Incorporating 

Wraptite saves on both the labour and material 

costs associated with achieving the energy 

efficiency demands in buildings. 

Wraptite is Class B1-s1,d0, compliant with 

Part B regulation changes for use in the 

external wall systems of buildings over 18m 

in height, both as a continuous layer on 

sheathing board behind fire classified 

insulation, and for use to tape joints in 

insulation behind rainscreen. 

www.proctorgroup.com 

TIME & COST EFFICIENCIES WITH STO 

A Sto rainscreen cladding system has provided 

an alternative construction method for a new 

housing development, generating time and cost 

efficiencies. 

Located in Fort William in the Scottish Highlands, 

Blar Mor comprises 117 one-to-four-bedroom 

affordable homes, which have been built by TSL 

Contractors. The main contractor partnered with 

AFS (Scotland), a leading provider of external 

façade solutions, to deliver a durable cladding 

system for timber frame homes, removing the 

requirement for traditional construction. 

“Given the location of the development, TSL 

Contractors was seeking a new façade solution 

which would enable them to build the homes 

more efficiently without comprising on quality,” 

explained Steve Avery, director of AFS. 

“Having used Sto’s products for numerous newbuild 

projects, we recommended the StoVentec 

rainscreen cladding system.” 

Sto reviewed wind load information and provided 

a Sto fixing assessment to assist AFS in the 

installation of the StoVentec system. Comprising 

StoVentec carrier boards, these were installed on 

the timber battens to create a ventilated cavity. 

Made from 96% recycled expanded glass 

granulate, the carrier boards are reinforced on 

both sides with glass fibre mesh. StoVentec 

boards don’t expand or contract with temperature 

change, providing a stable board to receive the 

render build up, and they can also be butt jointed 

with no risk of cracking. 

The next stage of the installation process was to 

apply a layer of StoArmat Classic Plus, a cementfree 

base coat, embedded with Sto-Glass Fibre 

reinforcing mesh to the exterior of the StoVentec 

boards. The final façade finish was completed 

The 117 homes form part of the first phase at Blar Mor. 

with StoSilco K1.5, a silicone resin render in 

white, which provides high levels of water 

repellence, protection against harsh weather 

conditions and excellent water vapour 

permeability. 

Steve continued: “StoVentec is very quick and 

simple to install which made it ideal for Blar Mor 

and the inevitable wet weather conditions. The 

system has also provided a thermally-efficient 

solution with facades that will be resistant to 

cracking and the elements, ensuring they retain 

their attractive appearance.” 

www.sto.co.uk 


How a history of innovation has helped develop the roof 

membrane of the future 

Specifiers and contractors want practical solutions for delivering resilient, sustainable 

buildings designed with the future in mind. Considering the need for future-proofed solutions, 

Iain Fairnington, Technical Director at A. Proctor Group, explains how the next generation of 

air permeable roof membranes is set to help. 

Pitched roof underlays are often described using the catch-all 

term ‘breather membranes’. The generic description doesn’t 

reflect the distinction between high-resistance (HR) and lowresistance 

(LR) membranes. And LR membranes themselves 

can be air tight or air permeable. 

indoor environment. 

Water resistance on the external side must not impact on the 

vapour permeability – or air and vapour permeability, if both 

are offered – from the internal side. 

Roofing membranes must meet a host of performance criteria, 

of which we’re going to focus on two: water resistance and 

vapour/air permeability. 

Ventilation in modern buildings, and especially dwellings, is 

often not well aligned with the energy efficiency performance 

Water resistance of membranes in a changing climate 

When a roofing system is installed, there is an inevitable 

period of time where the underlay will be in place without a 

roof covering to protect it. The underlay might therefore have 

to bear the brunt of any inclement weather. Good practice 

will dictate that this period should however be kept to a 

minimum and a temporary cover used if rain is expected. 

The NFRC’s Technical Bulletin TB06 describes how 

membranes should perform in terms of water resistance. 

It says an underlay with “a water hold out over 1m when 

tested to BS EN 20811 will be adequate.” 

As the frequency and intensity of extreme weather increases 

as a result of the changing climate, roof systems generally – 

and membranes as a specific part of those systems – need 

to be capable of withstanding more severe levels of rainfall. 

An underlay’s ability to perform with a 1m head of water is 

a minimum level of performance to look for during product 

selection. 

KEY FEATURES 

• Vapour permeable 

• Fully air permeable 

• Highly water resistant - 

hydrophobic additive in all 3 layers 

• More uniform airflow than vents 

• Wind Uplift Resistance Complies 

with BS5534 

• No VCL required 

• 15 year warranty 

Designing roof membranes to cope with modern living 

Any manufacturer developing a pitched roof underlay 

must balance the competing needs of resisting the external 

elements, and contributing to the quality of the building’s

(including airtightness). With more people adopting hybrid working 

and spending more time at home, excessive levels of moisture 

vapour in the air are increasingly common. 

Selecting an air permeable LR underlay can mean that no vapour 

control layer (VCL) is required in the ceiling. It’s also unnecessary 

to ensure that ceilings are constructed as ‘well-sealed’, as described 

in BS 9250, however the ceiling should be convection tight. Moist 

air passes into the roof space and, in quick succession, to the 

outside air. 

Knowing that insulation can be installed right into the eaves 

with no risk of blocking ventilation is reassuring from a building 

performance point of view, and from the point of view of avoiding 

condensation in the roof space. 

A true ‘fit and forget’ product 

Hidden from view, pitched roof underlays usually warrant little 

attention from building users. Yet they play a vital role in protecting 

those same users from the elements, and from unhealthy indoor 

climates. 

Proctor Air ® : an air permeable LR membrane for the future 

With these competing challenges in mind, A. Proctor Group has 

developed a pitched roof underlay for the future: Proctor Air. 

As an air permeable LR underlay, Proctor Air makes pitched roof 

constructions simpler. No VCL is required in the ceiling, which also 

does not need to be well-sealed. And no ventilation measures 

are required in the cold roof space, since the membrane permits 

the passage of both air and moisture vapour through the roof 

construction. 

A. Proctor Group is a 4th generation family business with a history 

of technical innovation, promoting good practice, and developing 

products that roofing contractors want to use. We have applied 

this wealth of experience to creating the next generation of air 

permeable LR membrane. 

By choosing and installing Proctor Air, specifiers, contractors 

and building owners/managers can enjoy the confidence that 

comes from a high-performance product doing its job without 

intervention. 

In fact, Proctor Air provides a more uniform flow of air than 

normal vents. This is particularly useful in complex roofs, where 

‘dead’ areas of poor ventilation can occur even when ventilation 

measures have been installed well. 

Proctor Air’s water resistance has been tested and meets the 

guidance of TB06. At the same time, it reduces the risk of issues 

occurring in roof spaces due to poorly installed VCLs or ventilation, 

since neither is needed. 

Keeping with the theme of future-proofing, avoiding the need 

for ventilation – particularly at the eaves – helps when it comes 

to installing the substantial thicknesses of insulation required in 

lofts. With the impending introduction of the Future Homes and 

Building Standards to consider as well, those thicknesses may well 

increase. 

All of this is backed by our unique 15-year warranty, offering peace 

of mind even in the face of an uncertain future climate. 

For more information visit: https://proctorgroup.com/products/ 

proctor-air 

01250 872 261 

contact@proctorgroup.com 

www.proctorgroup.com

Knauf Insulation Tech Talk 

EMBODIED CARBON: WHY SHOULD 

YOU CARE? 

While insulation improves energy efficiency, it’s not the only factor that affects a 

building’s carbon footprint. In his latest column Bradley Hirst, Technical Services 

Manager from Knauf Insulation, answers common questions about another 

sustainability measure – embodied carbon. 

What is embodied carbon? 

The UK Green Building Council defines 

embodied carbon as the total greenhouse 

gas emissions (carbon) associated with 

materials and construction processes throughout 

the whole lifecycle of a building asset or 

infrastructure. It includes the emissions from the 

extraction of raw materials, manufacturing, 

processing, transportation, maintenance and 

disposal of every product and element used in that 

asset, as well as the construction process itself. 

This differs from operational carbon which is the 

greenhouse gas emissions from the energy used 

to run the building (heating, lighting, maintenance 

etc.) as well as energy used by occupants. 

Are there regulations about embodied 

carbon? 

Not yet, but it’s becoming increasingly important 

because it must be addressed to hit net zero. RIBA 

has already set targets for levels of embodied 

carbon as have many construction clients. 

Do all insulation products contain the 

same amount of embodied carbon? 

No. The amount of embodied carbon a product 

contains is affected by factors such as how it’s 

made, packaged and transported. 

Take mineral wool for example. Knauf Insulation’s 

glass mineral wool is made from up to 80% 

recycled content, mostly glass bottles and jars. 

While our rock mineral wool uses volcanic rock, a 

material from naturally abundant sources, and 

recycled slag, a waste product from blast 

furnaces. The amounts and type of energy 

Above: Using recycled glass cullet to manufacture glass 

mineral wool insulation uses less energy than is needed for 

virgin raw materials 

required to produce them are different too. 

Most of our products are manufactured with 

ECOSE Technology, our unique bio-based binder 

that contains no added formaldehyde or phenol. It 

is made from natural raw materials that are 

rapidly renewable and is 70 per cent less energyintensive 

to manufacture than traditional binders. 

We also compress our glass mineral wool 

insulation so there’s more product per pack or 

pallet, so less packaging is used. This means 

there’s more product per truck so fewer vehicles on 

the roads and less associated carbon emissions. 

In contrast, rigid boards are made using oil-based 

materials and cannot be compressed because it 

would damage the insulation. 

How can you check levels of embodied 

carbon? 

Ask for the manufacturer’s Environmental 

Product Declaration (EPD) for the product. These 

should comply with European standard EN 

15804, or International Organization for 

Standardization (ISO) standards 14025, 14040, 

Bradley Hirst, Technical Services Manager, Knauf Insulation. 

14044, or 21930. They should also be verified, 

audited, and approved by an independent, 

accredited third party. 

Where the EPD complies with EN 15804, there 

are two methodologies that may have been used 

for the calculations – the older EN 15804+A1 

standard, and the new EN 15804+A2. Any EPDs 

issued after July 2022 must comply with the new 

standard. This new standard helps with 

specification because it increases the scope and 

granularity of data provided, but it does make 

comparing EPDs produced using different 

methodologies difficult. 

Glass mineral wool is a good choice because it 

has the lowest level of embodied carbon of any 

mainstream insulation material. 

Knauf Insulation produces EPDs to the +A2 

standard for all its products, which can be 

downloaded from www.knaufinsulation.co.uk. 

Contact Knauf Insulation 

www.knaufinsulation.co.uk 

Knauf Insulation UK & Ireland 


Inverted Flat Roofs 

WATERPROOFING AND OTHER KEY 

CONSIDERATIONS 

As Rob Firman, Technical and Specification Manager at Polyfoam XPS, points out, inverted 

flat roofs can be waterproofed with bituminous membranes, single ply membranes, or 

liquid-applied membranes, but he says the most common solution is liquid-applied 

waterproofing known as hot melt. In this article, Rob explains why it is so popular, and 

explains how the choice of waterproofing depends on the structural roof deck. 

During construction of an 

inverted roof, the structural 

deck is waterproofed prior to 

installation of the thermal insulation 

and roof finish – which also acts as 

ballast. This protects the roof structure and 

building from rain sooner, but also subjects the 

waterproofing layer to more foot traffic. 

The type of waterproofing selected should 

therefore reflect the conditions it will be subjected 

to during both installation and use. 

What is the most common structural deck 

for inverted roof waterproofing? 

The overwhelming majority of inverted roofs are 

Left: Rob Firman, Technical and 

Specification Manager at Polyfoam XPS. 

concrete decks (or metal liners with 

a concrete topping). There are a 

variety of reasons for this being the case: 

• The roof structure must be capable of bearing 

the weight of the ballast. 

• Many inverted roofs are designed to bear the 

weight of foot traffic, mechanical plant, or green 

and blue roof systems. The roof structure must 

also be capable of bearing these loads. 

• As a non-combustible material, there is less 

risk associated with concrete and a hot-applied 

waterproofing material like hot melt. 

Timber decks provide a flat substrate for the 

waterproofing, but are much less commonly 

specified than concrete. Metal decks, meanwhile, 

cannot be used by themselves in an inverted roof 

because of their profiled shape hindering the 

waterproofing installation. 

Properties of different inverted roof 

waterproofing options 

A variety of factors contribute to the choice of 

system to waterproof the specified structural 

deck. Method of attachment to the deck, speed of 

installation, and overall system performance 

must all be taken into account. 

If the waterproofing product requires mechanical 


fixings then a concrete deck has to be pre-drilled, 

which adds time and cost to the operation. 

An adhered membrane avoids the needs for 

mechanical fixings but, depending on how 

adhesion is achieved, does not necessarily 

achieve a bond over the whole roof area. 

A complete bond between waterproofing and deck 

is a desirable characteristic in an inverted roof 

build-up. Should the waterproofing become 

damaged, especially by follow-on trades and 

subsequent work on the roof, any leak is confined 

to the isolated area. Water cannot track through 

the system and enter the building elsewhere, 

avoiding difficult and costly leak investigations. 

This is a significant reason why liquid applied 

solutions, and hot melt in particular, are usually 

preferred. 

Is a water flow reducing layer (WFRL) 

waterproof? 

Inverted roof build-ups are unique in flat roofing 

for featuring an additional layer above the 

thermal insulation and below the ballast finish. A 

water flow reducing layer (WFRL) is a loose laid 

membrane that acts as a barrier to rainwater, 

reducing the volume of water that can reach the 

waterproofed roof deck. It also stops fines from 

entering the roof system. 

Without a WFRL, more water reaches the 

waterproofing layer and increases the effect of 

rainwater cooling on the roof U-value calculation. 

A significantly thicker layer of insulation is 

required to compensate, increasing the depth of 

the roof build up and the cost of the inverted roof 

system. 

However, a WFRL is not a waterproof layer, and 

technical guidance for flat roofing is consistent in 

reinforcing this. A membrane used as a WFRL 

should be water resistant, rather than 

waterproof, and diffusion open to allow the 

passage of moisture vapour from inside to 

outside. 

It is therefore not appropriate to design an 

inverted flat roof on the assumption that no 

Extruded polystyrene (XPS) insulation can be used with all 

waterproofing solutions for inverted roofs. 

rainwater will be able to reach the waterproofing 

layer. The membrane may perform well in 

independent testing, but some rainfall is always 

expected to reach the roof deck. 

Selecting thermal insulation for 

waterproofing compatibility 

While hot melt is, essentially, the waterproofing 

solution of choice for inverted roofs, it remains 

the case that multiple waterproofing options are 

available. Extruded polystyrene (XPS) insulation 

can be used with all of them, and no fixing of the 

insulation is required thanks to the ballast 

installed on top of the insulation. 

“A membrane used as a 

WFRL should be water 

resistant, rather than 

waterproof, and 

diffusion open to allow 

the passage of 

moisture vapour from 

inside to outside” 

Crucial to the overall performance of the roof 

build-up, system tests are carried out to assess 

the performance of XPS and a WFRL together. By 

selecting established solutions, specifiers and 

contractors benefit from a known quantity that 

delivers reliable performance – in conjunction 

with whatever waterproofing layer is most 

appropriate to the individual project. 

Contact Polyfoam XPS 

01429 855100 

www.polyfoamxps.co.uk 

Polyfoam XPS 


Updates 


NEW CPD: FIRE SAFETY OF MULTIFUNCTIONAL ROOFS 

ROCKWOOL, a leading UK stone wool 

insulation manufacturer, has launched a 

new CPD (Continuing Professional 

Development) module to help roofing 

contractors and specifiers assess and 

mitigate potential fire safety risks for flat 

roofs used as additional functional space on 

buildings. 

Flat roofs are a common construction, especially 

in busy urban environments where space is at a 

premium. Leveraging flat roof space enables 

designers, developers and ultimately tenants to 

make use of the ‘fifth façade’ for a variety of 

social and practical purposes. 

This CPD aims to improve understanding of the 

role of the modern flat roof, and how to identify 

and mitigate fire risks above and below the roof, 

and is based on the recently launched whitepaper 

‘Flat roofs: The functional fifth façade’. 

From building services and HVAC equipment, to 

solar installations, and even social spaces like 

rooftop bars and terraces, the role of the roof is 

changing. This expanding remit, especially for 

high rise buildings in crowded cities, brings 

multifaceted challenges to specification and 

building design. 

“By taking part in this CPD module, roofing 

professionals will learn about the implications 

of practical and social installations on flat 

roofs, and their impact on design and build,” 

explained Lisa Stephens, Product Manager – 

Building Envelope, ROCKWOOL UK. “The CPD 

also addresses the situation surrounding solar 

PV installations and how this is reflected in 

regulations and guidance.” 

Participants in the ‘Flat roofs: The functional 

fifth façade’ CPD will learn about the 

requirements of the Building Regulations for 

flat roofs and the role of guidance documents 

like Approved Document B, or regional 

equivalents. The final section of the CPD 

outlines ROCKWOOL’s range of fire-resistant 

stone wool insulation products that are 

compatible with a variety of modern flat roof 

systems. 

The new module is available through the 

manufacturer’s bespoke learning platform, 

ROCKWOOL Learning, or as a traditional inperson 

course. To learn more about the CPD, 

and to register for a place, visit: 

rockwool.link/ffcpd 

CALCULATING CONDENSATION RISK 

Knauf Insulation has launched an online 

condensation risk analysis tool which, the 

company says, will save architects and 

specifiers time by enabling them to evaluate 

the risk of interstitial condensation and 

generate U-value calculations in less than five 

minutes. 

Bradley Hirst, Technical Services Manager at 

Knauf Insulation, said: “Interstitial condensation 

can result in rot or corrosion within the structure. 

So calculations evaluating this risk give architects 

and specifiers peace of mind that their design will 

not cause unintended damage to the building’s 

fabric. 

“The problem is they take time. We know architects 

and specifiers often do multiple U-value 

calculations for housing developments, but if they 

wanted to assess the risk of condensation, they 

needed to contact our technical team or enter the 

same data into previously downloaded third-party 

software. Then if they change the U-value they 

have to start the whole process again. 

“By integrating a free condensation risk analysis 

calculator into our online U-value calculator, we 

have reduced a process that could take up to 24 

hours to just a few minutes.” 

The condensation risk analysis tool is quick and 

easy to use. First, users need to generate the U- 

value by choosing from a range of typical build-ups 

and tweaking the data using drop-down menus to 

match their exact specification. They then have the 

option to analyse the risk of condensation. 

Opening this function pre-populates the tool with 

the build-up and U-value data. Users then need to 

enter the postcode for the building location, which 

automatically identifies the country and the nearest 

available region for climatic data. Next, they select 

the property type from the dropdown menu. Once 

The Condensation Risk Analysis calculator is free to use on the 

Knauf Insulation website. All calculations are performed in line 

with BS EN ISO13788 and follow the guidance in BS 5250: 2021 

Code of Practice for the Management of Moisture in Buildings. 

the risk of condensation has been calculated, users 

can view the boundary conditions (data used) and 

download the calculation, including the 

temperature data and dewpoint graphs. 

When they close the tool, the condensation risk is 

automatically displayed alongside the U-value. If 

they then alter the build-up information within the 

U-value calculator, the risk of condensation will 

automatically be updated without needing to go 

back into the tool. 

www.knaufinsulation.co.uk/uvalue-calculator 


Workwear Choices 

DRESSED FOR SAFETY AND 

SUCCESS ON SITE... 

The team at Carhartt explain why choosing PPE and workwear that is designed to have 

your back in tough work environments is crucial, and outline some of the key items from 

their offering to keep you safe and comfortable on site… 

The construction site can be a dangerous 

place, filled with multiple health and safety 

risks where the significance of Personal 

Protective Equipment (PPE) and workwear with 

in-built toughness cannot be overstated. 

Serving as a frontline defence against an array of 

potential hazards, PPE and workwear plays a 

pivotal role in ensuring the safety and well-being 

of workers on building sites. From preventing 

injuries from flying objects, to shielding against 

harmful substances and electrical hazards, the 

strategic use of PPE is not just best practice, but 

an obligation. 

An eye on protection 

In environments prone to dust or debris, PPE 

such as safety glasses are crucial. Sadly, every 

year thousands of workplace accidents involve 

the eyes, and while many are minor and 

temporary, some result in partial or complete 

blindness. According to the Health and Safety 

Executive (HSE), there were over five thousand 

work-related head injuries last year, 739 of these 

affecting eyes, with 127 losing some or all sight. 

Safety glasses are therefore a crucial piece of 

PPE. Carhartt's range of safety glasses conforms 

to EN 166, the European standard that outlines 

the specifications for protective eyewear. Made 

with a polycarbonate lens and frame, these 

glasses are almost indestructible – 

polycarbonate is 250 times more impactresistant 

than glass and 10 times more resistant 

than standard plastic. Polycarbonate lenses are 

also thinner and lighter compared to alternative 

materials and provide natural protection by 

blocking out 100% of the sun’s UV rays, 

“In the intricate daily dance of challenges, the 

careful consideration and use of PPE is crucial 

in creating a secure and productive work 

environment” 


mitigating one of the most significant risks to the 

eyes. 

On a solid footing 

When it comes to safety boots and shoes, there 

are different industry standards that indicate the 

level of protection they provide. The basic 

standard is SB, ensuring the footwear has toe 

protection against impacts of up to 200 joules. S1 

includes the basic toe protection, anti-static 

features, resistance to fuel oil and energy 

absorption in the heel. S2 offers the same 

protection but also keeps water out, making them 

suitable for outdoor work in wet 

conditions. S3 boots go a step further 

with midsole penetration resistance, 

protecting against sharp objects. 

Check if the larger sites you work on 

stipulate a certain ‘S’ level. 

Carhartt's safety boots guarantee toe protection 

up to 200 joules, equivalent to the force of 13 

wheelbarrows filled with cement! Just like 

flooring, these boots have four vital layers. The 

Vibram runner outsole is the base layer, providing 

good structural support and great traction. Next 

comes the insulation in the form of a textile antipenetration 

plate which, unlike steel, protects the 

full foot area, is lightweight, flexible and bends 

with foot. It also doesn’t corrode when in contact 

with liquid, doesn’t conduct heat or cold, passes 

through metal detectors and does not conduct 

electricity. Anti-penetration plates are essential 

when working on sites where nails, glass and 

sharp objects may be found. 

On top of this is the reinforcement – a lightweight 

stability shank that not only keeps your boot in 

good shape but helps to reduce fatigue by 

lessening tension in the feet arches, calves and 

knees, supports the hips and provides balance 

when walking over uneven terrain. Finally comes 

the top layer – the cushioned part the foot makes 

direct contact with, in the form of a comfortable, 

removable footbed. 

When you are on your feet all day, your feet can 

swell by half a size. Traditional safety boots come 

with a protective toe cap that does not allow for 

“When you are on your feet all day, your 

feet can swell by half a size – Carhartt 

builds its safety boots with a half size 

allowance, to keep you comfortable 24/7” 

stretch. Carhartt builds its safety boots with a half 

size allowance, to keep you comfortable 24/7. 

Be seen on site 

Maintaining high visibility is also crucial to 

preventing accidents, particularly in 

environments with heavy machinery and 

equipment. Construction workers can 

significantly mitigate accident risks and bolster 

overall safety on the site by donning easily visible 

clothing. While high-visibility jackets or vests are 

obvious choices, other items can also effectively 

make individuals stand out on the site. The 

Carhartt Relaxed Fit Short Sleeve T-shirt 

(105858), for instance, isn’t just lightweight and 

quick-drying, it also features reflective taping for 

increased visibility on darker days. 

The right outfit 

To shield your body against general dust, debris 

and chemicals on site, overalls offer 

comprehensive coverage, minimising skin 

exposure. Meanwhile, durable work trousers are 

designed to endure abrasions and impacts, 

delivering an extra layer of protection against 

sharp objects, rough surfaces and potential 

injuries. For tasks involving kneeling or close-toground 

work, knee pads play a crucial role. They 

provide cushioning and support, mitigating the 

risk of knee injuries and discomfort resulting from 

extended periods of kneeling. Many Carhartt 

trousers, like the Double-Front Utility Work Pant 

(B01) and the Steel Rugged Flex Relaxed Fit 

Double-Front Cargo Multi-Pocket Work Pant 

(103337), come with knee spaces for adding 

pads. The latter features a top-loading secure 

knee pad pocket with cleanout openings and a 

fully articulated knee with a flat back seam. 

Prioritising PPE and tough workwear on 

construction sites is paramount for ensuring the 

safety and well-being of workers. From safety 

glasses and boots, to high-visibility shirts and 

knee pads, the array of choices reflects the 

diverse hazards encountered on-site. In the 

intricate daily dance of challenges, the careful 

consideration and use of PPE is crucial in 

creating a secure and productive work 

environment. 

Contact Carhartt 

www.carhartt.com 


Nails & Screws 

NOT ALL FIXINGS ARE THE SAME... 

James Robinson, Sales and Marketing Director at Samac Fixings, explains why the 

importance of quality fixings cannot be overstated and why understanding that not all 

screws are the same is so important. 

As the industry evolves with new building 

regulations and technological 

advancements, the demand for 

specialised, high quality fixings has never been 

higher. The design and coatings of screws, from 

wood screws through to heavy duty structural 

fixings, cater for a wide range of applications 

and have the potential to save significant time 

and money for contractors. It is true to say that 

today’s modern fixings are way more than “just 

a screw” and are surely one of the unsung heroes 

out of all the construction materials. 

The construction industry is continuously 

adapting to new challenges, including increased 

levels of insulation required by evolving building 

regulations. Part L of the UK building regulations 

now mandates a minimum roof insulation level of 

0.18 W/mK for all new-build homes and 

extensions. This significant update necessitates 

the use of thicker insulation materials to meet the 

new standard, thereby creating a need for longer 

screws in the construction process. 

Understanding this industry shift, Samac Fixings 

has responded proactively by adding 6 x 220mm 

and 6 x 240mm screw lengths to its Performance 

Range. These new sizes are meticulously 

engineered to travel through the increased 

thickness of the latest insulation materials, 

ensuring compliance with the updated 

regulations, while maintaining Samac's hallmark 

of quality and reliability. 

Adhering to building regulations is not just a legal 

necessity; it’s also a matter of safety and 

efficiency. The longer screws in the Performance 

Range specifically address the requirements of 

Part L, ensuring that contractors are not only 

compliant but also confident in the integrity of 

their work. Moreover, these longer screws 

distribute pressure more evenly 

across the insulation layer. This 

feature is critical for maintaining 

the stability of the insulation 

over time, ensuring that buildings remain energy 

efficient and compliant with the latest standards. 

Coatings 

One of the key aspects of Samac’s Performance 

Range is the Ruspert coating. This coating is not 

just about aesthetics; it provides enhanced 

corrosion resistance, making the screws suitable 

for a variety of environments, including external 

applications. The durability offered by this coating 

extends the life of the fixings, thereby reducing 

the need for frequent replacements and saving 

costs in the long term. 

The design of a screw also plays a pivotal role in 

its efficiency. Certain screws are engineered for 

specific applications. Take, for instance, TEK 

Screws which are designed with a self-drilling 

capability that eliminates the need for predrilling, 

saving you time and money. This feature 

also ensures a secure and tight fit, reducing the 

risk of leaks and other issues that can arise from 

poorly secured sheet metal. 

Collated nails, such as the Viper range for roofing 

applications offer another example. Designed with 

precision, these nails ensure a strong hold and 

easy application, crucial for the fast-paced 

nature of first fix roofing. Likewise, the Atlas 

Bolts, known for their strength and reliability, 

are perfect for heavy-duty applications where 

security and durability are paramount. 

Furthermore, the longevity and reliability of 

these fixings mean fewer callbacks for repairs, 

a significant saving for contractors. 

However, understanding when to use 

the correct screw for a specific 

application in the construction 

industry is not just a matter of 

efficiency; it’s a crucial aspect of 

safety, cost management and overall project 

success. The importance of this knowledge 

cannot be understated, as the use of 

inappropriate fasteners can lead to dangerous 

outcomes and be a source of significant waste. 

For example, a screw not designed for loadbearing 

purposes used in structural applications 

may fail under stress, leading to structural 

integrity issues or even catastrophic collapses. 

Similarly, screws that are not corrosion-resistant, 

if used in outdoor or moisture-prone 

environments, can corrode and weaken over 

time, posing a risk to the stability of the 

structure. 

So, not all screws are the same – and the saying 

“you get what you pay for” holds particularly true 

in the world of construction fixings. The benefits 

of investing in quality extend beyond the 

immediate project. They ensure compliance, 

enhance safety, save time and money in the long 

run, and contribute to the overall success and 

reputation of a construction business. 

Contact Samac Fixings 

www.samacfixings.co.uk 


Updates 


SECURE TOOL TRANSPORTATION 

KNIPEX has developed a range of tool 

cases and backpacks enabling 

tradespeople to comfortably and 

securely transport their tools 

to site, ‘whether travelling 

on public transport or piling 

into a car or van’. 

The KNIPEX Modular X18 (00 21 50 LE) 

service backpack allows you to carry all your 

tools, laptop or accessories comfortably on your 

back. The Modular X18 is made for those who 

don’t want to compromise on which tools they 

take where, and the backpack can 

hold up to 15kg. It adapts 

perfectly to its wearer thanks to the 

fully foldable front and back, a 

laptop compartment, a removable 

tool board and ergonomic back 

padding. 

Of course, you may want a backpack 

filled with tools, and that is where the KNIPEX 

Modular X18 Electric (00 21 50 E) comes in. This 

is equipped with 16 KNIPEX tools, a total of 22 

branded tools, partially VDE-tested according to 

DIN EN 60900. 

When you need to 

move lots of tools 

safely, the new 

Robust26 Move 

tool case (00 21 

33 LE - pictured) 

is ideal. With an extendable, ergonomic handle, 

smooth-running wheels and an automatic 

pressure compensation valve, it is great for 

plane, train or van. 

www.knipex.com 

HOT TOP-IC: NEW HEATED BASE-LAYERS! 

In addition to powering the expanding line-up of cordless tools and accessories, Makita has introduced two new heated base-layers to its 

range of job site apparel. 

Powered either with Makita’s 18V LXT battery or the 12Vmax CXT battery, professionals can stay warm when working in cold job site conditions with the 

new DCX200 and DCX201 heated base layer shirts. With four dedicated heat zones for optimum heat distribution and three 

heat settings to adjust to changing weather conditions, these new 

garments can provide continuous heat for up to 33 hours. 

Both base-layers are made from elasticated fabric to allow 

unrestricted movement, are machine washable and have a 

simple switch on/off button that is easily accessible at the 

front. 

www.makitauk.com 

NEW KNEEPAD SYSTEM TAKES THE STRAIN 

In what is probably the most ground-breaking Work Trouser and Knee Guard innovation, Snickers Workwear has launched 

the ‘world’s first’ built-in, certified kneepads which are completely integrated into a pair of Snickers Workwear’s 

premium stretch Trousers. 

Delivering low-profile impact protection, the AllroundWork, Stretch Trousers with Capsulized Kneepads are an innovative 

combination of cutting-edge sportswear technology coupled with well-established workwear know-how. They’re ideal for craftsmen and women on site; 

for people in logistics and warehousing; industry, engineering and maintenance, who are constantly on the move and want the continuous protection of 

welded-into-place kneepads. Designed and engineered in partnership with YBC, the Capsulized kneepad components comprise six protection layers that 

work with each other to dissipate the energy created by the impact of working on your knees or through bumps in the workplace. They deliver effective 

durability combined with penetration protection, as well as additional impact absorption, pressure release and enhanced comfort. And, as is typical of all 

Snickers Workwear clothing, these stretch Work Trousers with the lightweight Capsulized kneepads will provide in-place ergonomic protection all day, 

every day. https://www.snickersworkwear.com/campaign/capsulized 


40V MAX XGT 

EXCELLENT FOR CONTINUOUS 

HEAVY-DUTY WORK 

120+ 

230MM ANGLE GRINDER: GA038G 

Auto-start Wireless System (AWS) 

Active Feedback sensing Technology (AFT) 

See website for 115mm, 125mm and 230mm 40V XGT Angle Grinders. 

With over 120 products and still expanding, the XGT range is your ultimate alternative 

to traditional petrol and mains power sources. Experience on-demand power across our 

complete product spectrum. Makita provides more than just power tools, explore our full 

range at makitauk.com and follow us on socials for updates. 

makitauk.com

Updates 


POWER ON THE MOVE WITH MAKITA 

Makita has announced the launch of its new 

BAC01 36V Power Converter, which turns DC 

power into AC power, and is suitable for battery 

charging or the use of corded tools in outdoor 

job sites where an AC outlet is not available. 

Specifically, the new solution converts power from 

Makita’s 36V battery packs to AC power for a wide 

range of applications – simply by connecting the 

PDC01 or PDC1200 battery pack to the power station. 

The power converter has been designed to support 

a variety of requirements, offering multiple outlets 

that include two AC outlets, two Type-A USB output 

ports, two Type C USB outlet ports, and one DC12V 

cigar socket. Collectively, users have access to a 

wide range of options to power multiple items when 

out on site and it can also be used to recharge 

Makita’s batteries for use with its cordless power 

tools or outdoor equipment. 

Runtime is application dependent. For example, the 

PDC1200 will power a 1000W load for about 56 

minutes, and the PDC01with 4x BL1860B batteries 

will power a 750W load for approximately 20 

minutes. 

Owing to the focus on portability and functionality, 

the power converter is also compatible with 

Makita’s Makpac system to allow for easy 

transportation. Measuring just 39.5cm by 34.5cm 

by 16.3cm and weighing 7.3 kilos, it can otherwise 

be handled using the built in carrying 

handles located on both sides of the unit 

which are retractable when not in use. 

Kevin Brannigan, Marketing Manager 

at Makita UK, said: “We’re always 

looking for opportunities to meet our 

customers’ needs, with our new BAC01 Power 

Converter doing just that. We foresee this being a 

highly useful and complementary piece of 

equipment for tradespeople working on large 

sites, or in remote areas where there isn’t a 

power supply available. It’s an easily 

transportable, highly effective source 

of power that is compatible with a 

variety of tools and lighting equipment.” 

With a nominal battery voltage of 36V, the BAC01 

has a maximum power output of 2,800 W and 

continuous rating output of 1,400 W. 

www.makitauk.com 

FREE MULTI VOLT BATTERY PACK OFFER FROM HIKOKI 

HiKOKI Power Tools has announced a free Multi Volt 

battery pack offer to its customers. From 1 January to 31 

March, 2024, customers who spend £300 including VAT 

or more on any HiKOKI cordless tools from an approved 

UK/ROI HiKOKI seller or dealer can grab a cutting-edge 

BSL18A36 MV Battery Pack for free, subject to terms and 

conditions. 

HiKOKI’s Multi Volt batteries offer flexibility and convenience. 

With the ability to intelligently switch between 36V and 18V, 

these batteries provide the high power needed for heavy-duty 

tasks and can be charged in just 32 minutes. 

Compatible with all cordless HiKOKI Power Tools, the BSL18A36 MV Battery Pack ensures that professionals always have the right amount of power for 

the job at hand, thereby reducing downtime and increasing productivity. Its rapid charging time and long-lasting power make it an essential addition to 

any toolkit. 

All qualifying customers have to do is complete the redemption form on the HiKOKI Power Tools website, and the BSL18A36 MV Battery Pack will soon be 

theirs. 

For full terms and conditions and for more details on how to claim visit www.hikoki-powertools.co.uk/redemption 


TECHNICAL SUPPORT 

Work with a manufacturer who goes beyond simply 

supplying product. Choose global experts in passive fire 

protection – providing free, in-depth technical support at 

every stage of your project, backed by our engineers and 

product specialists from design to build and beyond. 

Wherever the project and whatever the challenge, our 

technical and site services teams are here to work with 

you - for you. 

Are you ready to Go Beyond?

February 2024

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