July/August 2024 Issue

July/August 2024

www.specifyandbuild.co.uk

Exploring practical solutions for today’s built environment challenges

Your

partner for

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As the UK’s largest privately owned aluminium

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innovation at the heart of our business, offering

a wide range of slim profile doors, windows and

curtain walling, low carbon recycled aluminium

and in-house powder coating.

HOUSING

ROOFING &

CLADDING

SMART TECHNOLOGY

WINDOWS, DOORS &

ENTRANCE SYSTEMS

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www.specifyandbuild.co.uk \\ July/August 2024

JULY/AUGUST 2024

LETTER FROM

THE EDITOR

EDITOR JENNIE WARD

T: 07971 968611

E: jennie@mappedout.media

PUBLISHING

DIRECTOR

DESIGN &

MARKETING

MANAGER

ACCOUNTS &

CIRCULATION

THE TEAM

JAKE ROXBOROUGH

T: 07482 181961

E: jake@mappedout.media

LAURA KING

GEORGIA HENDERSON

E: accounts@mappedout.media

After six weeks of campaigning we have a new

UK government, with Sir Keir Starmer’s Labour

Party gaining a significant majority in the House

of Commons. It has only been a few weeks

since the General Election, but the Government

has already signalled that housebuilding and construction

has returned to the top of the political agenda.

New Chancellor Rachel Reeves used her first major

speech in office to focus on housebuilding, announcing the

return of mandatory housing targets and a thorough reform

of UK planning policy as a way to help the industry build

1.5m new homes during the next Parliament.

In this issue we’re taking a closer look at what lies

ahead for UK housebuilding and the challenges that could

prevent us from achieving these targets. In our Housing

feature, we’re also exploring the current state of the net

zero economy, and looking closely at an impressive new

masterplan that is aiming to create a vibrant new seafront

community in Kent.

Plus, we’re bringing you all the latest news and

technological trends in the Roofing & Cladding, and

Windows & Doors sectors.

PUBLISHED BY MAPPED OUT MEDIA LIMITED

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15185328

Registered Office:

The Old Barn, Wood Street,

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July/August 2024


All rights reserved. No part of this publication

may be reproduced or transmitted in any

form, without the consent of the publisher

- Mapped out Media Limited. While

every effort is made to ensure accuracy,

the publishers do not accept liability for

errors – printing or otherwise – appearing

within this publication (and website). The

views expressed by contributors are not

necessarily those of the editor or publisher.

Exploring practical solutions for today’s built environment challenges

HOUSING

ROOFING &

SMART TECHNOLOGY

CLADDING

Your

partner for


As the UK’s largest privately owned aluminium

fenestration systems manufacturer, we put

innovation at the heart of our business, offering

a wide range of slim profile doors, windows and

curtain wa ling, low carbon recycled aluminium

and in-house powder coating.

WINDOWS, DOORS &

ENTRANCE SYSTEMS

SECURITY & FIRE

PROTECTION

Senior Architectural Systems is launching

ReAl 2.0, a bespoke scheme for customers

who wish to reduce the embodied

carbon generated by the manufacture,

transportation and disposal of aluminium

fenestration products. Senior can now

manufacture its full range of products

from aluminium extrusions comprising a

minimum of 75% recycled content sourced

and processed in the UK. See page 12 for

more information.

3

22 30

CONTENTS

26 32

06. News

10. Special Feature: Is it time for a new net zero

world?

14. Case Studies

HOUSING

16. What’s next for housebuilding under the new

Labour Government?

20. Hybrid timber: the pragmatic solution to net zero

22. Building on the Shoreline

24. Glass installations for social spaces

ROOFING & CLADDING

26. Push the envelope with powder coating

28. Bituminous vs metal roofing: understanding your

options

30. Green roofs just got greener

32. Achieve high acoustic performance with

aluminium façades and roofs

34. Mind the gap when specifying facades

4

36

56

46 58

36. Former Army base turned housing development

gets help from above

40. Bitumen waterproofing provides robust

protection for landmark project

SMART TECHNOLOGY

44. Bridging the digital divide

WINDOWS, DOORS & ENTRANCE SYSTEMS

46. Create a warm and welcoming home

48. Former bank is transformed by timber-alternative

windows

52. New Products

SECURITY & FIRE PROTECTION

54. Get fire door ironmongery specification right to

avoid non-compliance

56. Clearing up the regulation confusion

58. Safe, controlled evacuation – without

compromising security

60. New Products

64. Case Studies

5

July/August 2024 \\ www.specifyandbuild.co.uk

LATEST NEWS

NEWS \\ INDUSTRY UPDATES

King’s Speech outlines new Government

housing plans at Parliament opening

The new UK Government is to

‘turbocharge the building of housing

and infrastructure’ to help boost the UK

economy, it was announced at the State

Opening of Parliament on 17 July.

In the first King’s Speech of the

new government, His Majesty The King

unveiled over 35 new bills and draft bills

that the Government said would help to

‘rebuild Britain’.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said:

“I am determined to create wealth for

people up and down the country. It is

the only way our country can progress.

Today’s new laws will take back control

and lay the foundations of real change

that this country is crying out for,

creating wealth in every community and

making people better off – supporting

their ambitions, hopes and dreams.”

The new bills include the Planning and

Infrastructure Bill, which will modernise

planning committees to increase their

capacity, as well as streamlining the

delivery process for major infrastructure

projects. This, the Government said, will

give increased certainty to developers

and communities and accelerate the

delivery of high-quality infrastructure and

housing.

The English Devolution Bill has also

promised to give more power to local

government, allowing them “enhanced

powers over strategic planning,

local transport networks, skills and

employment support”.

There will also be new powers to

allow local leaders to create local growth

plans, and a Great British Energy Bill to

facilitate the production, distribution and

supply of clean energy.

• See page 16 for our in-depth report

on the new Government’s housing

and construction plans.

Urgent adoption of

Class A building

controls needed

Class A building controls must be widely

adopted in new and existing nondomestic

buildings across the UK, the

Building Controls Industry Association

(BCIA) has said.

The Future Buildings Standard

regulations aim to provide a pathway to

highly efficient non-domestic buildings

that are zero carbon ready. BCIA

has submitted recommendations to

a government consultation that the

installation of building automation and

control systems based on heating,

ventilation and air conditioning output

should be changed to a mandatory

requirement for systems above 180kW

to decrease to 70kW by 2030.

This, BCIA said, will encourage

compliance with energy efficiency

and carbon standards and lead to a

reduction in carbon emissions and

energy usage. The BCIA estimates that

a requirement to install Class A BACS in

commercial and public buildings with an

HVAC output over 180kW could save a

total of £16.9bn in energy bills and

39.6 Mt of CO 2

e by 2040.

Minister visits heat

pump factory

Ed Miliband, now Secretary for

Energy and Net Zero, has toured

Kensa’s Cornwall factory to see how

the company’s ground source heat

pump solutions are being developed.

During the visit, which took

place before the General Election,

he met with Kensa’s CEO Tamsin

Lishman, and other employees, to

discuss the British company’s plans

to decarbonise heat and heard

more about Kensa’s vision to deliver

affordable, renewable heating and

cooling across the UK.

England needs 550,000 new homes a year

Britain has a shortfall of 2.5 million

homes and needs to build 550,000

houses and apartments a year if it is

going to plug the gap within the next 10

years, according to a new report.

‘The Productivity Engine’, by

Bidwells, has explored the drivers of

the UK’s lack of productivity, which has

fallen from 2% before the 2008 financial

crisis, to around 0.5% now.

The report said failure to futureproof

our cities, or think long term about the

best use of land is restricting positive

social outcomes and limits productivity.

The planning system is partly to

blame, the report said, by restricting

housing supply, but the authors also

pointed to a decline in government

funding for new social housing, the

sustained fall in real interest rates

between 1985-2021 and financial

deregulation (eg, buy-to-let mortgages),

which have together driven up house

prices and made it more difficult for firsttime

buyers to afford a home.

The housing shortage also means

people must spend a disproportionate

amount of their income on housing and,

correspondingly, have less money to

spend on other things and are more

likely to live in poverty.

The shortage also adds to the

pressure on government finances, as

the number of private renters receiving

housing support has more than doubled

in the last 20 years, making it more

difficult for people to move across the

country in order to find a more suitable

job that matches their skills.

The report said the Government’s

plan to build 300,000 new homes

per year will not solve the housing

shortage for four decades. The report

recommended reforming the planning

system and increasing grant funding

for local authorities and housing

associations to invest in social housing.

It also called for the building of a range

of different homes including housing

for the elderly, private rented flats for

young graduates and social housing for

families on low incomes.

6


LATEST NEWS


Consumers would pay 7.7% more for smart homes, survey says

Consumers are prepared to pay a 7.7%

premium to purchase a smart home,

according to the Samsung Smart

Home Buyers Index (SHBI) 2024. This

is £21,774 more than the average UK

house price, and an almost £4,000

increase from the previous year’s survey.

The survey revealed that 79% of

people looking to move (rent or buy) in

the next five years want a smart home.

Some 70% of those who responded

want the smart home to improve their

energy efficiency, and 63% want to save

money. A further 75% are looking for

technology that will improve their home

security.

The SHBI demonstrates the strength

of the market opportunity for developers

and homebuilders. This interest in

energy-efficient devices and appliances

was also supported by Samsung’s

analysis of search volumes, where

searches for smart energy appliances

rose nearly 60% from April 2023 to April

2024, led by air source heat pumps.

Searches for air source heat

pumps increased 173% year on year,

overtaking searches for smart meters.

This focus on energy efficiency

should be welcome news for an

industry that is gearing up for the

current UK Government’s Future Homes

and Buildings Standards, Samsung

said, which requires that new homes

built from 2025 produce 75% to 80%

less carbon than homes delivered

under previous regulations.

This is due to come into effect

in 2025, and those specifiers who

incorporate the appropriate futureproofed

smart technologies can

support people in their quest for energy

efficiency and cost savings in the future,

particularly as newer technologies

become available.

New specifiers’

drylining guide

The Finishes and Interiors Sector

(FIS) has published a revised and

updated Specifiers’ Guide to

Drylining. This resource will help

with the specification of drylining,

and includes advice on how to take

account of new working practices,

the Building Safety Act and

sustainability.

The document explores some

of the key criteria that should

be considered when writing a

specification for drylining, including

partitions, wall linings and shaft

walls.

In helping to select a drylining

system that will satisfy performance

needs, it also includes descriptions

of other non-plasterboard, such as

calcium silicate board, which is also

used in drylined systems.

The guide includes specifying

tips, as well as reference material

on regulations for safety, fire

performance and standards. It can

be downloaded at www.thefis.org

‘Brighter times lie ahead’, says forecast

Brighter times lie ahead for the UK

construction industry as the economic

recovery gathers pace and private

sector investment picks up, according

to the mid-year Glenigan Construction

forecast.

The forecast predicts that new

project starts in the private housing,

offices, hotel & leisure, retail and

industrial sectors will all increase from

2025 as investor confidence returns and

political uncertainty fades.

In the public sector, activity is likely

to be held back in the short term ahead

of the next government Spending

Review. But civil engineering activity is

expected to continue growing beyond

this year, helped by more investment by

water utilities and on renewable energy

projects.

After a 3% increase in the value of

underlying (under £100 million) project

starts this year, the new Glenigan

Construction Forecast sees continuing

rises of 7% next year and a further 6%

in 2026.

Private housebuilding has staged a

tentative recovery this year, and stands

out as the most promising sector for

new construction activity in the coming

years, the forecast predicts. Following

a 2% rise in project starts in the sector

this year, Glenigan is now forecasting a

14% upturn in 2025, with a further 6%

increase in 2026.

The prospect of lower mortgage

rates, an upturn in property transactions

and rising consumer confidence all bode

well for new housing demand.

As things stand, the South East of

England continues to see the largest

share of planning approvals for new

private housing developments of any

region, worth over £7.5 billion last year.

But recent Glenigan data pointing to

an upturn in planning approvals this

year for housing schemes in the East of

England, the North West and the South

West suggests other regions are wellplaced

to see increases in new starts.

Glenigan data gives numerous

examples of private housing

developments of all sizes getting

underway across the country, including

imaginative urban redevelopments

under the future Labour government.

8



Planning Portal launches sustainability and planning hub

LATEST NEWS

Planning Portal, operated by TerraQuest, has launched a

dedicated sustainability portal to help specifiers incorporate

eco-friendly practices into their projects and applications.

This latest addition to the Planning Portal website offers

practical and user-friendly green advice on topics including

complying with current legislation and applying for grants.

The free guides span subjects including:

• Funding guidance: A comprehensive walk-through of

the funding currently available from the UK government to

assist with sustainable planning and building measures,

including grants to support small projects such as the

Green Deal, Boiler Upgrade Scheme, and Home Upgrade

Grant.

• Legislation guides: Detailed information on evolving

issues such as Biodiversity Net Gain and Nutrient

Neutrality, helping applicants navigate regulatory changes.

These guides summarise updates, clarify affected parties,

and provide links to essential legislation and further

resources.

• Project advice: Explanation of planning rules and

permitted development limits with a renewed focus on

sustainability, as well as detailed guidance on practical

sustainability considerations for all kinds of projects.

• Key concepts explained: Guidance around key

sustainability concepts relevant for planning and building,

such as retrofitting and embodied carbon.

• Energy saving: Tips on energy saving and home energy

generation.

Geoff Keal, CEO at TerraQuest, explained: “As the

providers of the service which forms the foundation of all

planning and building in England, Wales, and Northern

Ireland, we are committed to promoting sustainable practices

where possible. Eco-friendly methods are a significant part of

the planning process to ensure that the work completed does

not severely impact the environment. Users can now access

clear information about how they can lower the negative

impact of their projects and ensure that they are compliant

with the current laws on the matter.”

The new resources are aimed at anyone looking to create

and submit a planning application from private homeowners

to developers hoping to create a new housing complex.

The Sustainability and Planning Hub is online at

www.planningportal.co.uk/planning/sustainability-andplanning

Roca Group purchases Italian company Idral

Roca Group has acquired Idral, an

Italian manufacturer specialising in

self-closing taps for public and semipublic

spaces. This move significantly

strengthens Roca Group’s faucets

division, enhancing its position in

the market for public and communal

bathrooms, such as schools, hospitals

and the hospitality industry.

With 50 years of experience, Idral is

a leading supplier of public bathroom

taps in Italy, as well as of smart tap

technology, offering solutions such as

self-closing thermostatic cartridges and

sensor taps. Its portfolio of products

both complements Roca Group’s

existing lines and offers the potential for

growth in this sector across Europe, the

company said.

Roca Group has been assisted in

this transaction by KPMG and Baker

McKenzie. Idral Group has been

assisted by Alisea Corporate Finance

and by Tonucci & Partners.

\\ KNAUF INSULATION HAS

RECEIVED ADDITIONAL BBA

AGRÉMENT CERTIFICATES FOR

ITS RAINSCREEN INSULATION

PRODUCTS, INCLUDING

ROCKSILK RAINSCREEN SLAB,

OMNIFIT ROLL 34 AND OMNIFIT

SLAB 35.

\\ IG MASONRY SUPPORT’S

WELDED MASONRY SUPPORT

SYSTEM IS PASSIVE HOUSE

CERTIFIED IN RECOGNITION OF

ITS ENERGY EFFICIENCY. THE

SYSTEM ACHIEVED CLASS PHA

– ONE LEVEL BELOW THE

HIGHEST POSSIBLE STANDARD.

\\ MIRA SHOWERS HAS

RECEIVED AN IF DESIGN AWARD

FOR ITS MIRA SELECT FLEX

MIXER SHOWER, WHICH IS A

TRADITIONAL SURFACE-

MOUNTED CONCENTRIC MIXER

DESIGNED WITH ACCESSIBILITY

AND INCLUSIVITY IN MIND.

9


SPECIAL FEATURE

TIME FOR A BRAVE NEW WORLD?

Rinnai’s Chris Goggin explores the challenges the new government will face in

establishing a coherent set of policies to achieve net zero in a pragmatic, economic

and technically feasible manner.

The new Labour government needs

to legislate for UK customers to

have flexible energy options that

reflect the practical, economic, and

technical reasoning needed to design

and install decarbonising technology.

Previous UK policy has struggled to

address the nuances of the UK building

stock and instead touted a heat pumponly

approach.

Now that a new government is in place,

an adapted national policy that affects

both off and on-grid customers should

focus on supplying UK customers with

practical, cost-effective solutions to

every individual site.

Additionally, the new government must

provide a policy framework that supports

a range of low-carbon fuels capable

of efficient performance and carbon

reduction. There must also be focus on

an open and transparent collaborative

approach right across the power and

energy industries, so that everyone can

transition towards a low-carbon future.

One way in which the new government

will be measured is the direction of offgrid

fuels and appliances.

Off-gas grid options

There are approximately 1.65 million

non-domestic buildings in England and

Wales. These buildings are diverse in size

and structure and include commercial

and public premises. Half (48%) of those

surveyed used a form of electric heating,

while 30% had an oil boiler and 12% an

liquified petroleum gas (LPG) boiler.

Of these, around 280,000 are in areas

not connected to the gas grid, and many

use either oil, LPG, or coal powered

heating systems. Phasing out fossil fuel

installations will require a significant

increase in the deployment of lowcarbon

heating solutions, such as hybrid

heating and hot water systems.

There were also around 4.4 million

households across the UK not

connected to the gas grid in 2021,

accounting for 15.1% of domestic

properties. Heat pumps are a viable

carbon-reducing technology capable

of covering a sizable percentage of UK

decarbonisation targets but are unlikely

to satisfy rural customers due to a lack

of insulation and other technical issues in

older off-grid properties.

Rather than replacing a boiler or

commercial water heating system

and purchasing a heat pump, there

are alternative ways to provide heat

and hot water to off-grid properties.

Drop in solutions such as BioLPG and

future fuels such as r-DME mean that

boilers and water heaters do not have

to be replaced. Gaseous systems that

accept fossil fuels are also capable of

receiving biofuels as legitimate energies.

The future capacity of r-DME and other

alternative biofuels are set to rise sharply,

increasing the likelihood of this fuel being

introduced nationally.

Off-grid UK residents need to

decarbonise just as owners of all other

residential and commercial properties.

The UK government needs to implement

a nationwide plan that is designed to

ensure the quickest and cleanest route

towards carbon reduction.

One way in which the

new government will be

measured is the

direction of off-grid

fuels and appliances

Current proposals insist all fossil fuel and

LPG domestic boilers and commercial

water heaters that provide heat and

hot water to off-grid domiciles and

commercial properties will be banned

from 2035. Currently, a heat pump is

the preferred method of providing clean

energy for off-grid heating and hot water.

This policy approach unfortunately does

little to address those hard to abate

properties.

There have been huge investments, on a

global scale, in researching synthetic and

alternative fuels for off-grid properties.

For example, Dimeta - a collaborative

effort by two of the world’s leading

LPG distributors, SHV Energy and UGI

International – is constructing a £150

million renewable and recycled carbon

DME production plant in Teesside.

Once operational the plant will produce

over 50,000 tonnes of DME from nonrecyclable

waste – the equivalent of 25%

of LPG domestic heating in the UK.

Rinnai and Dimeta are working together

to design and produce off-grid energy

and hot water supplies to properties not

connected to the UK national grid.

www.rinnai-uk.co.uk

10

Specifying roof protection?

Get your ducks in a row.

kemperol.co.uk


COVER FEATURE

MEET REAL 2.0 - A UK-SOURCED

LOW-CARBON ALUMINIUM

EXTRUSION OFFERING

Window, door and curtain walling systems designer and manufacturer, Senior

Architectural Systems, is going the extra mile to reduce the carbon footprint of its

products by supporting the use of UK-sourced closed-loop recycled aluminium.

Branded as ReAL 2.0, Senior is

launching a bespoke scheme

for customers looking to further

reduce the embodied carbon generated

through the manufacture, transportation

and disposal of aluminium fenestration

products. Senior can now manufacture

its full range of products from aluminium

extrusions, comprising a minimum

of 75% recycled content from postconsumer

scrap materials which are

sourced and processed in the UK

using low-carbon methods. All Senior’s

products are manufactured in South

Yorkshire.

The new offering is currently only

available on request but Senior hopes

that as more UK aluminium can be

recycled and reused, supply will increase

to reduce the reliance on importing

recycled aluminium. Where possible,

Senior will also work with select

clients to manage the removal of older

aluminium fenestration products from

retrofit schemes for recycling.

Owing to the UK’s current limited

capacity for reprocessing aluminium,

most recycled aluminium is imported

but Senior has recently made changes

to its main supply to ensure that it can

still offer all its customers a lower carbon

option. As an early adopter of recycled

aluminium, Senior extrudes all its

products from aluminium that contains

more recycled materials than before,

generating lower carbon emissions

throughout its production.

These emissions are measured in

kilograms of carbon dioxide equivalents

– 1kg of CO 2

equivalents is comparable

to the effect of 1kg of CO 2

emission. The

recycled aluminium Senior currently uses

as part of its standard offering is below

4.0kgCO 2

/kgA, which is significantly

lower than the global average and

approximately a 35% reduction in

carbon compared to the 6.1kgCO 2

/

kgA aluminium the manufacturer could

offer before. As it is sourced from the

UK, reducing the need for extensive

transportation, Senior’s ReAL 2.0

aluminium has an even lower carbon

footprint at 2.0kgCO 2

/kgA.

Senior Architectural Systems’ Managing

Director, Mark Wadsworth, said: “It’s

important to us as a manufacturer

and for our customers that we are

continuously looking for new ways to

reduce the environmental impact of the

work we do and the buildings we help

create. Senior has long championed the

use of recycled aluminium and, as a UKbased

supplier, the transportation of our

products is already less carbon intensive

than others. However, there is always

more that we can do and by supporting

the greater use of aluminium that has

been recycled right here in the UK, we

can hopefully help create a stronger

supply and a more sustainable solution.”

New support for larger projects

In addition to investing in its

manufacturing capabilities, Senior has

appointed Mark Rossouw to the newly

created role of Major Projects Manager.

A familiar face within the construction

industry, Mark has over 15 years’

experience of helping to design and

deliver multi-product fenestration

packages and previously worked

for Senior as one of the company’s

regionally based architectural advisors.

Mark rejoins Senior to support the

company’s growing order book and

further develop its supply chain

partnerships with national main

contractors, architects and fabricators.

Mark will work closely with Senior’s

national specification manager to

oversee the company’s involvement in

the many high-value and longer-term

contracts the company has secured

across the country, with a particular

focus on London and the South

East. This also includes large-scale

regeneration projects and mixed use

residential schemes, where Senior

can provide a complete package of

thermally efficient fenestration systems

manufactured using fully recyclable low

carbon aluminium.

www.seniorarchitectural.co.uk/

contact

12

Your

partner for


As the UK’s largest privately owned

aluminium fenestration systems house,

Senior Architectural Systems can work with

you to achieve your sustainability targets.

“From continuously improving our

manufacturing methods, to utilising

low carbon and fully recyclable

aluminium across our full range of

Part L compliant products, we are

proud to do things differently.”

Mark Wadsworth,

Managing Director

01709 772 600

info@sasmail.co.uk

seniorarchitectural.co.uk


CASE STUDIES

RINNAI DECARBONISES SURREY COMMUNITY

Rinnai has supplied five 16kW Low-GWP heat pumps plus

hybrid cylinders to deliver space heating and hot water to

a busy Surrey community centre. There are six large suites,

rooms and studios which can be hired for a variety of

leisure, educational or local community purposes.

Rinnai’s design service assessed that five HPI Monobloc

air source LOW-GWP heat pumps and electric cylinders

would provide space heating and hot water for the entire

building. Rinnai’s HPI range can cascade up to seven units

together. This LOW-GWP heat pump technology is suitable

for applications from domestic to light commercial. The

system can switch between heating, hot water and cooling

mode to ensure flexibility and durability as standard.

The models have ultra-low sound capability making them

suitable for areas with prohibitive sound legislation.

Rinnai’s low-GWP heat pumps use R290 refrigerant and

have an ERP rating of A+++, making it an economical and

environmentally sound choice.

Also chosen were the Infinit-E electric cylinders. The

range is an optional three-phase all-electric water heater

for predominantly commercial hot water applications. The

electric storage water heaters are fitted with between one

and six titanium elements, while the KW rating is scalable

from 12kw to 72kw.

www.rinnai-uk.co.uk

© Speller Metcalfe

PASSIVENT HITS NATURAL VENTILATION

TARGETS FOR SPORT ENGLAND

Passivent has supplied 11 Airscoop roof-mounted terminals

for a new £3.6m performance archery facility at Lilleshall

National Sports Centre, Shropshire. Home to Archery GB,

the centre was funded by Sport England with support

from UK Sport. It will be used by Olympic and Paralympic

archers, as well as being a base for talent development

archers and community activity, including grassroots sport.

Passivent’s Airscoop roof ventilation terminals were

specified to help naturally ventilate the 70m indoor

shooting range. Through displacement ventilation, the

Airscoop terminals direct fresh air via four separate

chambers to the indoor space below while also extracting

stale air. The centre also benefits from the integration of

Passivent’s iC8000 multi-zone intelligent controller, which

enables automatic control of the terminals as required,

based on temperature and CO 2

levels.

The energy saving design of the ventilation terminals also

helps reduce maintenance costs as there are no mechanical

or electrical elements that require regular servicing so no

access to the roof is needed.

The terminals are also covered by a 15-year no leak

guarantee and feature patented double bank louvres for

Class A rain rejection (tested to BS EN 13030:2001).

www.passivent.com

EWI SYSTEM SPECIFIED FOR CANARY WHARF

A Sto external wall insulation (EWI) system spanning

8,000m² has upgraded the exterior of a waterside

residential development in Canary Wharf, London,

providing fire-compliant facades.

Pierhead Lock begins with a 12-storey tower by the River

Thames, before stepping down to two storeys as it curls

round the dock. The scheme also features semi-circular

apartment blocks and a rounded tower, all with white

facades.

Noviun Architects were responsible for designing

remedial works for the exterior cladding. The existing

expanded polystyrene insulation (EPS) needed to be

removed, so the architects and façade restoration specialist

Stoneguard worked with Sto to develop a detailed EWI

system specification.

The BBA-certified StoTherm Mineral K EWI system

achieves a reaction to fire of A2-s1, d0 in accordance with

BS EN 13501-1. The A1-rated mineral fibre insulation boards

were fixed to the concrete substrate using StoLevell Duo

Plus, with fixings used to secure the insulation boards to

the substrate. StoFlexyl, an acrylic-based, fibre-reinforced

waterproofing product encapsulated the insulation below

the dampproof course, protecting against moisture or water

ingress.

The system was finished with StoSilco K1.5 silicone resin

render, coated with StoColor Dryonic G and StoSilco G

façade paint for robust protection against algae growth.

In the rounded tower, StoVentec carrier board made of

recycled glass granulate was installed over the soffit with

new insulation.

www.sto.co.uk

14

WE KNOW

ACOUSTICS

INSIDE OUT

Noise and noise pollution surround us on a daily basis, in homes,

the workplace and in our schools, but it does not need to. Acoustic

comfort in buildings is an essential parameter to be considered

when designing or refurbishing a building. To meet both regulatory

requirements as well as the needs of the occupants, specify

Tecsound Acoustic membranes.

www.soprema.co.uk/acoustics

Benefits include:

3 Versatility (Multiple applications)

3 Easy Installation

3 Quality

3 Reliability

3 Solutions for airborne and impact noise

3 Technical support from design to installation

Email: techsupport@soprema.co.uk

Tel: +44 (0)330 058 0668


HOUSING

IS IT TIME TO GET BRITAIN

BUILDING AGAIN?

Just weeks after the

General Election, the new

Labour Government has

already signalled a fresh

focus on housing and

construction. Political

expert Jamie Hailstone

explores what could lie

ahead for British

housebuilding.

After Labour swept to power

in July, it was notable that

Rachel Reeves used her

first speech as Chancellor to

declare the new government

was “going to get Britain building again”.

Admittedly, politicians making bold

announcements about housing is

nothing new. Many in the construction

sector may be wary after years of

frustrations with stalled initiatives and

economic uncertainty, not to mention the

revolving door of housing ministers.

For anyone keeping count, there

were no less than 16 housing minister

appointments between 2010 and 2023,

with Lee Rowley being the last, after

taking on the job for the second time

under Rishi Sunak.

But the new Labour government

has wasted no time in reaffirming its

commitment to build 1.5 million new

homes over the next five years, with

a string of reforms intended to boost

construction and make those plans a

reality.

In her first speech, the new Chancellor

also promised to reform the planning

system, which she describes as

“antiquated” and currently leaves too

many projects “tied up in years and

years of red tape before shovels ever get

into the ground”.

To this end, Reeves says the government

will reform the National Planning Policy

Framework (NPPF) and consult on a new

“growth-focused approach”, including

restoring mandatory housing targets.

She also used the speech to announce

a taskforce to accelerate stalled housing

sites, starting with Liverpool Central

Docks, and said the government would

support under-resourced local authorities

with 300 additional planning officers

across the country.

Prioritising social

and affordable housing

Another interesting development

early on is the appointment of Angela

Rayner as both Deputy Prime Minister

and Secretary of State for housing,

communities and local government.

The two roles had been separated under

previous Conservative administrations

and the relationship between central

and local government became decidedly

strained, particularly over recent years,

against a backdrop of declining funding

and rising demand for services.

80%

of new homes still

come from private

housebuilders

16


Speaking at a Local Government

Association event in July, the Secretary

of State wasted no time in setting out

the new Labour government’s stall. She

says the revised NPPF will help prioritise

brownfield land for development and

include a requirement to review greenbelt

boundaries where necessary.

She adds the government will also

make it a priority to build new affordable

homes and review the Right to Buy

scheme to prevent council homes from

being sold and not replaced.

“Our aim is to deliver the biggest

increase in social and affordable

housebuilding in a generation,” says the

Deputy Prime Minister.

Modernising the planning process

The King’s Speech gave more detail,

particularly on the proposed Planning

and Infrastructure Bill, which will cover

many of these reforms.

According to the government’s official

briefing notes, the legislation will

modernise planning committees and

increase local authorities’ capacity to

deliver a “more predictable service to

developers and investors”.

The King’s Speech also contained details

on the new English Devolution Bill, which

aims to give local leaders the tools to

kickstart their economies, as well as

empowering communities to transform

neighbourhoods and high streets.

The bill includes enhanced powers

over strategic planning, local transport

networks, skills, and employment

support, as well as new powers and

duties for local leaders to produce Local

Growth Plans.

It also includes a strengthened “right to

buy” for valued community assets, such

as empty shops, pubs and community

spaces.

The reintroduction of mandatory

housing targets is likely to be highly

controversial in some quarters. When the

Conservatives introduced similar targets

in 2020, they proved highly unpopular

with both their own backbench MPs and

local authorities, especially among those

councils whose targets almost doubled.

Eventually, then-Housing Secretary

Michael Gove had to water down the

targets and make them advisory in order

to quell the growing revolt.

The poor state of England’s planning

system is well known. A report published

earlier this year by think tank Localis

notes local authority spending on

planning decreased by more than 50%

between 2010 and 2020, leading to a

“Herculean backlog” of applications.

The government’s own figures show

only 9% of local authorities are

determining more than 70% of nonmajor

applications within eight weeks.

The same figures show only 1% of local

authorities determine more than 60% of

major applications within the statutory

13-week period.

The construction industry responds

With so many announcements already

made and the prospect of more to

come, it is little wonder the construction

sector is keen to work with the new

government.

Chief Executive Officer of the Builders

Merchants Federation, John Newcomb,

has emphasised the importance of

a nationwide programme of home

insulation to cut energy bills, upgrade

cold homes and reduce carbon

emissions.

“We note Labour’s manifesto promise

for an additional £6.5bn to upgrade the

energy efficiency of five million homes to

cut bills for families,” he says. “But this

can only be achieved with unrelenting

efforts by government and industry,

working together in partnership, to

complete the necessary improvements

that many households urgently need.”

The Structural Timber Association (STA),

meanwhile, argues the government’s

pledge to build 1.5 million homes will

require a significant change in focus and

a rapid shift towards more sustainable

building technologies, such as offsite

timber frame.

“The STA whole-heartedly supports the

Chancellor’s ambitious plans for housing

growth,” says Chief Executive Andrew

Carpenter. “But simply building more

houses is not enough; we must embrace

a fundamental change in the way we

build our homes.”

Andrew says the Government needs to

adopt policies that put MMC and carbon

reduction, and therefore structural

timber, at the forefront of its housing

goals, adding: “The policies put in place

now will have a significant impact on the

UK’s ability to deliver housing targets,

great places to live and reducing carbon

to achieve net zero. This will be the

legacy for decades to come.”

The Construction Products Association’s

Economic Director, Noble Francis, has

also queried Labour’s house building

goal of 1.5 million by the end of this

Parliament, which he says equates to

300,000 every year.

Noble says the problem with the target

is it will require a 66% increase in house

building to get to 300,000 homes per

year, which he adds is “clearly not going

to happen”.

He says 80% of new homes still

come from private housebuilders,

while housing associations and local

authorities account for the remaining

20%. And he argues the availability

of skilled construction labour and

construction product manufacturing is

also another restraint.

“Both the UK house building workforce

and product manufacturing capacity

have fallen in recent years so new

investment in skills and capacity will

initially be needed just to get them back

to where they were two to three years

ago, before the Government even thinks

of 300,000 net additional homes or

more,” Noble says.

Of course, the new Labour Government

is still in its infancy. Many of its new plans

will only start to take shape once draft

legislation is published in the autumn

and winter. Then, and only then, will the

sector be able to judge whether it can

indeed live up to the rhetoric and get the

nation building again.

HOUSING

17


HOUSING PRODUCTS

UNDERLAY RANGE KEEPS INNOVATION ON TOP

Russell Roof Tiles has launched RussFast Underlay to

provide specifiers with reliable, quality roofing solutions.

The first two products in the range have been designed

for warm or cold roof construction and are compatible

with all Russell Roof Tiles accessories as well as RussFast

Solar. The underlay includes a high-resistance and lowresistance

product for differing scenarios.

Both products carry the Q mark certification from BM

TRADA. This is based on the globally recognised Product

Certification Standard EN 45011, which confirms that a

product conforms to the highest technical specifications. To

achieve a Q mark, products endure rigorous testing and will

continue to have regular audit testing of product samples

taken from the factory.

The underlays achieve Zone 1-5 classification and can be

used throughout the UK making it easier for specifiers to use

on a range of different projects. Neither underlay requires a

taped overlap.

RussFast Underlay surpasses NHBC requirements and

is fully compliant with BS 5534 and BS 5250. It provides

superior resistance to wind uplift and weather protection and

ensures effective control of condensation within the building

envelope. The underlay also adheres to BS EN 13859-1,

which specifies the requirements for underlays used in

pitched roofing applications.

www.russellrooftiles.com

A. PROCTOR GROUP LAUNCHES THERMAL

BRIDGING CALCULATION SERVICE

A new calculation service to provide thermal bridging heat

loss calculations has been launched by A. Proctor Group.

Heat loss at thermal bridges – expressed as Psi values –

cannot be assessed through the U-value calculations used

for the main building fabric elements. The thermal bridging

calculation service therefore complements A. Proctor

Group’s existing U-value calculator.

Psi values are entered into SAP and SBEM calculations

as part of assessing whole-building energy efficiency.

There is no ‘correct’ Psi value to achieve, or even mandated

maximum values. The issue for specifiers who obtain

Psi values is not being completely sure whether the

performance achieved will actually help deliver a healthy

building.

The new thermal bridging calculation service will help

A. Proctor Group customers understand how a thermal

bridging detail performs. The output includes a surface

temperature factor, or fRSI. Where the calculated Psi value

gives a value for heat loss, the fRSI indicates the internal

surface temperature at the junction detail. This helps predict

the likelihood of condensation and mould growth occurring.

In residential buildings, a thermal bridge needs to achieve

an fRSI of 0.75 or greater to ensure condensation will not

occur.

Calculating Psi values also helps in assessing what

contribution the detail might make to internal comfort for

the building’s occupants, such as when trying to meet the

Passivhaus.

proctorgroup.com

NEW CPD COVERS FIRE SAFETY IN BUILDINGS

Sika has launched its latest Continuing Professional

Development (CPD) ‘Fire Safety in Buildings – Fire

Regulation and Test Methods for Roofs’.

The increasing focus on fire safety in buildings has

become a critical concern for specifiers, contractors and

building owners. Understanding the relevant regulations,

testing methods and certification is essential to ensure the

safety and compliance of roofing systems.

Sika’s CPD presentation provides comprehensive

coverage of the standards, fire testing and certification

for roofing applications, the types of roofing systems and

insulation available, the Construction Products Regulation

and the Building Regulations that apply. This CPD aims

to equip attendees with the knowledge needed to make

informed decisions when specifying roofing solutions that

prioritise fire safety.

Sika’s roofing division also offers CPDs including:

• Designing for a sustainable future (RIBA Approved)

• Bituminous flat roofing solutions (RIBA Approved)

• Managing risk for specifiers: roof refurbishment

considerations

• Selecting flat roof systems to meet modern demands

(RIBA Approved).

These CPD sessions are designed to provide the

necessary knowledge and insights to navigate the evolving

roofing landscape and make informed decisions that

prioritise safety, sustainability, and performance.

www.sika.co.uk/roofing

18

We have a different perspective on

construction and conservation. The bat’s.

The Manthorpe Ridge Roost is our innovative solution that effortlessly integrates

bat habitats on new builds and refurbishments. The self-contained design is easy

to install on any ridge end, eliminating concerns about bats entering roof spaces.

Is it time you looked from the bat’s perspective?


HOUSING

HYBRID TIMBER: THE PRAGMATIC

SOLUTION TO NET ZERO

Alex Brock, Pre-

Construction Manager at

B&K Hybrid Solutions,

explains how hybrid

timber-steel structures

can bring hidden benefits,

lower embodied carbon,

and help Britain build

better.

Climate change and the need to

build more sustainably is arguably

one of the most important items

on the agenda for the new Labour

Government, but the responsibility to

reduce environmental impact no longer

solely lies with construction contractors.

Instead, architects and specifiers

must also play their part and build

sustainability into the design from the

very start.

According to the UK Green Building

Council, around 10% of the UK’s carbon

emissions are directly associated with

construction activity, and this number

rises to 45% when the entire building

sector is considered. However, it isn’t

just the construction process which

has an impact on the environment.

The majority of a building’s carbon

footprint lies with the energy used

inside, with heating alone representing

around 10% of the UK’s national carbon

footprint. Therefore, for the UK to meet

its stringent Net Zero commitments

by 2050, we must reduce both

operational and embodied carbon in the

construction sector.

Hybrid timber-steel structural systems

can positively impact these carbon

considerations, while simultaneously

offering numerous other key benefits.

One of the most effective methods

of addressing construction’s carbon

contributions is to maximise the use

of low-carbon materials, such as

engineered timber, as well as ensuring

these materials are used in the most

efficient way.

Timber is an ideal choice for a number

of reasons. First, the basic material is

well understood, having been used

in construction for centuries, while

engineered timber such as Cross

Laminated Timber (CLT) and Glued

Laminated Timber (Glulam) do not

require energy intensive processes to

transform them into a high performing

building component. Additionally, wood

acts as a carbon store due to trees being

able to absorb a significant amount of

carbon as they grow and sequestering

it throughout its life. The longer the

life of the timber in use, the increased

environmental benefits – meaning timber

and hybrid timber-steel buildings can be

designed with longevity in mind.

B&K Hybrid Solutions (BKHS) takes

a pragmatic approach to material

selection, with ‘the right material in the

right place’ being paramount when it

comes to planning and selecting the

most sustainable yet cost-effective

solution.

When maximising building efficiency

while fulfilling design requirements,

a hybrid solution can often excel.

For example, where extensive use of

exposed timber may be desirable for

its aesthetic and biophilic benefits,

glulam can be married with steelwork to

create a structurally efficient and visually

attractive structure. Similarly, a hybrid

CLT and steel structure – consisting of

a steel supporting frame with CLT floor

and wall panels – can share gravitational

and lateral load transfer, while being a

low-carbon solution.

Engineered timber components are

typically lighter than other traditional

materials, and approximately one-fifth

the weight of concrete, meaning the

required size and strength of supporting

structural elements can be reduced in

areas such as the foundations. This not

only generates value engineering, but

it also reduces material waste, onsite

duration and installation costs, and

embodied carbon. Transport efficiency is

also increased, with prefabricated timber

panels easily transported to site and

craned into place; a BKHS study on a

10-storey building found that switching

from concrete to a timber solution

reduced lorry deliveries from around 700

to just 111.

Hybrid timber and steel solutions

provide the answer to several

recurring challenges faced by

architects and specifiers. However,

early engagement and advice from a

specialist subcontractor is crucial to fully

understand the materials, design-out

any potential issues, and plan optimally.

Experts such as B&K Hybrid Solutions,

which has 50 years of combined

timber and steel experience, are able

to provide accurate advice in the early

stages of a project and ensure buildings

are optimised for a sustainable hybrid

approach.

www.bkhybridsolutions.co.uk

20

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SIGRNSAG390724 V1 | © SIG Trading Ltd 2024. All rights reserved. The information contained in this document is believed to be correct at the date of publication. Images used are for illustration purposes only.


HOUSING

BUILDING ON THE SHORELINE

A unique, contemporary building project is helping to transform the Folkestone

beachfront as part of an impressive masterplan to create a vibrant new seafront

community. Specify & Build visited to find out more.

Occupying a prominent

position on the Folkestone

beachfront, Shoreline is

a contemporary take on

the traditional Edwardian

curved terrace and the first phase of

an impressive masterplan for the town.

Constructed by Jenner and designed

by RIBA award-winning architectural

practice ACME for the Folkestone

Harbour & Seafront Development

Company, the residential building was

inspired by Kent’s rich architectural

heritage and comprises 84 luxury

homes with uninterrupted views onto

the beach and across the sea. These

include 20 beach houses, 4 duplexes

and two apartment blocks, each with 30

apartments.

Twenty beach houses line the centre of

the building and offer direct access onto

the beach, with private front and rear

gardens and spacious balconies and

roof terraces. Each five-storey home

measures over 2,100 sq. ft., with the

main living spaces spread across each

floor, with over 1,000 sq. ft. of private

gardens, balconies and roof terraces, as

well as two dedicated parking spaces.

Overcoming a multitude of challenges

along the way, this unique building sits

on robust foundations of more than 200

piles, driven to a depth of 27 metres.

Constructed with a reinforced concrete

frame, Shoreline’s flowing curved form

echoes the shape of the waves, pebbles

and coast. Its layout and architecture

pay homage to Regency Buildings at

the top of the Leas. Its form is a large

sweeping crescent offering stunning sea

views to as many homes as possible.

The crescent sits directly on a raised

part of the beach, and the semi-circular

massing frames a sheltered communal

garden away from the prevailing southeasterly

winds.

Shoreline was built to endure the everchanging

weather patterns experienced

on the UK’s coastline. The facade’s

white glazed bricks, sourced from La

Paloma in Spain, reflects the changing

colours of the sea and sky according

to the weather and the time of day. The

crafted facade acts as a ‘hard shell’,

with all external elements being of the

highest specification possible to endure

in a marine environment.

‘Standardised’ construction was never

going to be an option and, as such,

more than 24 different specially designed

bricks were required to achieve the

complex geometry. Metal used on the

exterior of the building is rust-proof,

while the wall ties beneath the facade

are made from the same marine-grade

materials found on deep sea oil rigs,

ensuring longevity and sustainability.

The building envelope is designed to

high thermal standards to minimise

heating and cooling requirements.

This includes double and triple-glazed

windows, depending on the orientation

and performance requirements, and

non-flammable mineral wool thermal

insulation has been used within the walls

to provide excellent insulation and keep

the homes warm in the winter. The soffits

of the beach house staircases are left

exposed to act as a thermal mass to

moderate temperatures. All homes are

provided with mechanical heat recovery

and ventilation alongside openable

windows to provide efficient background

ventilation.

Sustainable features include:

• Shingle Gardens provide an

ecological habitat, increasing

species diversity within the beach

• Rainwater harvesting and communal

heating

• Storage units and cycle parking

are provided within the car park to

encourage bike use

• All parking spaces are provided with

electric vehicle charging points

• LED lighting throughout the

apartments and common areas

• A communal boiler to provide more

efficient heating for the apartments.

With the design of the balconies proving

problematic in terms of their load bearing

weight, engineers implemented lighterweight

aluminium support systems

that seamlessly integrated into the

building’s curved design. There were

also five different bespoke balcony

designs to mirror the shape and curve

of the structure. The coping stones on

the parapet walls were individual in size

and shape requiring special moulds.

The curved structure also demanded

bespoke windowsills, with each unit

scanned as a 3D image.

The bespoke finish is not limited to what

the public eye can see, and communal

areas are clad with acoustic walls and

terrazzo floors to ensure quality radiates

throughout.

The beach houses and penthouse

apartments have private roof terraces

and all units have the exclusive use

of a private communal garden above

the under-croft car park that promotes

natural daylight through carefully placed

openings to provide a secure and

pleasant environment with EV charging

points and sufficient headroom for all

22


HOUSING

modern vehicles.

Martin Sandall, Managing Director of

Jenner, said: “As a Folkestone-based

main contractor, we are delighted to

have been able to deliver the initial phase

of the transformative Folkstone seafront

development. Shoreline Crescent is

a truly spectacular interpretation of

an English seaside crescent-shaped

apartment building. While its coastal

location presented a number of

construction challenges, the exceptional

quality of the finished building stands as

testament to the remarkable work of the

entire project team.”

www.shorelinefolkestone.co.uk

Project Data

Location: Folkestone, UK

Client: Folkestone Harbour Seafront Development Company

Date: 2020 - 2024

Status: Completed

Size: 12,310m 2 total NIA (5,070m 2 Apartments, 5,060m 2 beach houses,

2,180m 2 parking and services)

Architecture: ACME

Main Contractor: Jenner

Interior Design: 8 Holland Street

Landscape Architecture: Spacehub

Structural Engineering: BuroHappold

MEP: BuroHappold

Civil Engineering: BuroHappold/Pell Frischmann

QS: Betteridge & Milsom

Approved building inspector: MLM

Project Management: Spider Project Management

Transforming Folkestone

Shoreline is the first phase of a landmark project that over time will provide up to 1,000 new homes, shops, bars

and restaurants as well as attractive public and green spaces, including Leas Square and Marine Parade along the

seafront in Folkestone.

Folkestone was once an important fishing and ferry port and spa resort. The seafront was characterised by boats and

railways, amusement piers, bathing establishments, roller coasters, mini golf and nightclubs until the ferry port and harbour

station closed and the area fell out of use. Folkestone Harbour and Seafront Development Company is now leading a

comprehensive redevelopment of Folkestone’s harbour area to create a vibrant new seafront for the town. The company is

led by Sir Roger De Haan, Non-Executive Chairman of the town’s principal employer Saga Group.

Sir Roger has been at the forefront of projects designed to help Folkestone become a more attractive place to live and

work, supporting the local community. These initiatives include over £100 million of charitable support through the Roger

De Haan Charitable Trust, focusing principally on education, arts and creativity and sports projects. Sir Roger was awarded

the CBE in June 2004 and knighted in 2014 for services to education and to charity in Kent and overseas.

Within the context of ACME’s 2016 Folkestone Harbour and Seafront masterplan, Shoreline is located at the foot of the

Grade II* listed Leas Lift, one of the oldest water lifts in the UK and on the edge of Lower Leas Coastal Park.

The boardwalk easily connects residents to the Harbour Arm, which has quickly become the Kent Coast’s leading food

and beverage destination. It provides access to a thriving waterside community attracting many artistic industries with the

town’s Creative Quarter providing an urban village of designers, filmmakers, musicians, web developers and artists among

the 90 or so restored buildings.

Folkestone was recently voted as one of the best places to live in the UK due to its thriving arts community and public

spaces, such as the refurbished train station, viaduct and Fountain Square, as well as high-achieving schools and its

proximity to both London and the Eurotunnel.

Friedrich Ludewig, Founding Director at ACME, said: “Over the last 15 years, Sir Roger de Haan has developed an art-led

regeneration vision for Folkestone and delivered amazing works across the town. Since 2016, we have worked with him on

the largest building block of this regeneration strategy, Folkestone Shoreline and the Harbour.

“We refurbished and opened the Harbour Station and created an urban walkway across the viaduct to reconnect the town

to the Harbour Arm and celebrate what is left of the old ferry and rail infrastructure. We designed a new masterplan for

the beach and harbour area that preserves access to the beach for all and creates new crescents, shingle gardens and a

Harbour quarter with a clear Folkestone identity.”

23


HOUSING

GLASS INSTALLATIONS FOR

SOCIAL SPACES

Simon Boocock, Managing Director at CRL Europe, explores how glass can be used

creatively to enhance our homes and transform them into comfortable,

stylish spaces for entertaining.

While social gatherings at home

have always had their place,

there’s a noticeable shift

toward preferring to host social events

in the comfort of our own homes, driven

by a mix of cultural changes, cost-saving

benefits, and the ease of not having to

go out. Put simply, it’s easier to connect

with loved ones at home, without the

stress of travel or extra expenses, and

that makes it an attractive option for

many people. Overall, this shift reflects a

broader move towards personalising our

social experiences.

As homeowners have embraced the

idea of creating personalised interiors

and outdoor areas for socialising, glass

has emerged as a key material in this

transformation. With its ability to create

a sense of openness and connection,

glass can redefine living spaces and

enhance the experience of entertaining

at home.

Create seamless social spaces

Glass offers many different ways to

create dedicated areas for socialising.

For internal projects, glass can be used

to open up room spaces, allowing light

to flow through and creating a modern,

sleek aesthetic. Glass partitions, walls

and accents have become increasingly

popular for these reasons. In kitchens,

glass elements can transform a space

into a welcoming hub for entertaining,

with features such as bottle storage and

glass-fronted cabinets providing both

functionality and style.

Externally, the trend is to create

seamless transitions between our indoor

and outdoor living spaces and making

the garden an extension of our home.

Glass extensions and glass walls can

help to blur the lines between the inside

and outside, offering unobstructed views

and a continuous flow. CRL’s expertise

in glass and glazing solutions plays a

crucial role in bringing these designs

to life while also ensuring ease of

installation, safety and stability.

Real-world glass installations

Glass and Mirror Technology recently

chose CRL solutions to create luxurious

indoor-outdoor social spaces for a client

who wanted a dedicated wine storage

area indoors and a comfortable allweather

outdoor living area at the back

of their property.

For the wine storage unit, a showpiece

was created using sleek fittings for a

seamless look. CRL’s 10mm U channel,

10mm glass, Geneva hinge in Matt

Black, and Ladder pull-door handle were

used, resulting in a simple yet elegant

installation. This design not only served

the functional need for storage but also

added to the overall aesthetic. The back

wall is clad in Umbria from CRL, a hard-

wearing, stone-inspired surface that

creates an air of luxury.

To create a weather-resistant outdoor

area, CRL’s SpigLite Pro system was

used to provide protection from wind

while still allowing clear views of the

surrounding garden. The spigots offer

flexibility, enabling free-flow water

drainage, and the absence of a channel

enhances the unobstructed view. The

individual spigots allow for free flow

water drainage, making this system

perfect for wet areas.

Mechanised by a patented screw-clamp

adjustment device, each individual panel

of glass in the system can be horizontally

adjusted once in position for accurate

installation. The adjustable features of

SpigLite Pro ensure a precise installation

with a flawless finish, ideal for creating a

space where guests can relax regardless

of the weather.

The trend towards entertaining at home

shows no sign of slowing down. With

CRL’s innovative glass and glazing

solutions, for example, homeowners

can transform their spaces into

welcoming, stylish environments for

hosting social gatherings. Glass plays

a central role in creating these modern,

functional areas, whether for newbuilds

or retrospective installations, offering a

unique combination of durability, beauty,

and flexibility.

www.crlaurence.co.uk

24

ISOLINE LOW LINE is our easy to install bituminous sub-roof system

for installation beneath any roof tile at a pitch as low as 10 degrees.

ISOLINE LOW LINE. The sustainable option for a long-lasting, waterproofing solution

that will ensure protection against even the harshest weather. And that’s guaranteed.

www.onduline.co.uk

For more information email us

at enquires@onduline.net or

scan the QR code.


ROOFING & CLADDING

PUSH THE ENVELOPE WITH

POWDER COATING

John Park-Davies, Group Managing Director at Vertik-Al, explores how powder

coating is enabling designers to push the envelope of façade and architectural

design using colour and textures.

Powder coating is a method

of applying decorative and

protective finishes to a surface.

Using modern technology and proven

techniques the powders, which are

normally sprayed electrostatically onto

metal substrates (non-heat sensitive)

under factory conditions, provide a

uniform, chip and fade-resistant coating.

It is extremely durable and can be

used on a variety of metals, including

aluminium.

Aside from these practical benefits,

architects and specifiers delight in the

unlimited array of powder colours,

finishes and textures available.

Use colour to elevate design

As a large independent powder coater,

at Vertik-Al we applied 1,000s of different

colours and finishes last year. Anthracite

Grey Matt was our most popular colour

based on powder consumption. The

rest of the top 10 was an equal split

between greys, black and white tones

– all practical and functional colours for

commercial and industrial applications.

However, there is a growing appreciation

among architects, specifiers and

façade consultants for more cuttingedge

colours and effects, most notably

metallic coatings such as bronze and

copper.

Last year, Anodic Bronze Matt was

among our 20 most used powders. A

great alternative to anodised aluminium,

this powder is extremely popular with

designers, not least because when

compared with other finishes for

aluminium it is easy to repair, has proven

long-term resistance to weathering,

and has minimal environmental impact.

And, most importantly, it is visually

exceptional!

As a lighter alternative to Anodic Bronze,

Anodic Steel Bronze entered our top

50 in 2023. Again, this powder offers

outstanding weathering resistance,

excellent resistance to colour change,

and maximum film integrity; making it

ideal for highlights and feature detailing.

Most striking of all, perhaps, is the

inclusion of Matt Metallic Pearl Beige.

With its pearlescent finish, this powder

has climbed five places to firmly cement

itself inside our top 50.

We have also coated some interesting

colours recently in addition to these highranking

metallics. One of my personal

favourites is XDKB 018 (Gypsum) – a

strong metallic shade based on the

common soft sulphate mineral. While

Gypsum is a white rock, impurities

can colour it pink, grey or brown, and

these tones can be found in the powder

equivalent.

Tactile textures

We work with many architectural

metalwork specialists and their products

are often destined for city-centre projects

across the UK. This means they are at

the forefront of design, experiencing

trend-setting projects first-hand.

They and their customers are directly

responsible for influencing our powder

usage – what’s popular, what’s trending,

and what’s falling out of favour.

According to Kencar, a metalwork

fabricator and loyal Vertik-Al customer,

textured powder coatings are gaining

traction, particularly in educational

buildings such as universities and

colleges. One noteworthy example is the

Sheffield Hallem University project, where

a stone-coloured textured powder coat

was used to enhance the architectural

appeal while providing durability and

longevity.

These textured powders, classified

by QUALICOAT as Class 2 superdurables,

offer a realistic alternative to

stone, terracotta, brickwork, and glass

reinforced concrete (GRC). They are

also highly sought-after, adding depth

and dimension to surfaces. They can be

an excellent, cost-effective alternative

to other finishing materials, too. When

combined with the benefits of aluminium,

textured coatings offer significant

savings – they can ease design and

construction complexity by reducing

the weight of a building, helping to cut

embodied carbon and contributing to

the long life and sustainable attributes of

the building.

The rising use of metallic and textured

powders proves that architects and

specifiers are switching on to the design

flexibility and opportunities afforded

by powder coating, particularly for

architectural aluminium. Our top 50 may

be dominated by neutral shades in Matt,

Gloss, Satin, and Metallic finishes, but

these powders are being used creatively

on some of the UK’s most influential

buildings and facades.

www.vertik-al.com

26

The Air

To The

Throne

The next generation air and vapour permeable, highly

water resistant roofing underlay. Its characteristics

allow even very complex pitched roofs to breathe.

Available with a 15 year warranty.

For more information on Proctor Air and

vapour permeable system solutions:

contact@proctorgroup.com +44 01250 872 261 www.proctorgroup.com


ROOFING & CLADDING

BITUMINOUS VS METAL ROOFING

As the roofing industry evolves, professionals are constantly seeking materials that

combine durability, cost-efficiency, and ease of installation. Ardit Strica, Technical

Manager for Onduline Building Products, explores ONDULINE DURO SX 35, a robust

bituminous corrugated roofing sheet.

ONDULINE DURO SX 35 provides a durable and

aesthetically pleasing finish to a wide range of

commercial, industrial and agricultural buildings.

Its combination of flat and corrugated sections

offers a modern look similar to traditional metal

profiles, but with added benefits such as noise dampening and

ease of installation. Bitumen roofing sheets provide superior

sound insulation compared to metal sheets. This acoustic

benefit makes them excellent at dampening noise, particularly

in areas with heavy rainfall or strong winds, which significantly

reduces the impact noise from raindrops and hail.

In addition to their sound insulation properties, bitumen sheets

are quick and simple to install. Unlike metal sheets, which

require professional tools like angle grinders, bitumen sheets

can be cut simply with a handsaw. This eliminates the need

for specialised tools and minimises health and safety risks

associated with sparks and fumes from cutting metal. The

straightforward installation process of bitumen sheets reduces

both time and costs.

Handling bitumen sheets is also safer. They are lightweight,

flexible and do not contain sharp corners, so they are less likely

to cause injuries during installation. In contrast, metal sheets,

with their sharp edges and heavier weight, can increase the

risk of accidents.

Bitumen roofing sheets are highly durable and require minimal

maintenance. They resist rust and corrosion, making them

ideal for coastal and harsh environments. Unlike metal

sheets that may corrode over time, bitumen sheets maintain

their integrity and appearance, ensuring a long lifespan and

reducing the need for frequent replacements or repairs.

Ventilation is a must

Proper ventilation is crucial for maintaining the longevity and

performance of any roofing system. Ventilation helps regulate

temperature, reduce moisture build-up, and prevent issues

such as mould and structural damage. For the ONDULINE

DURO SX 35 roofing system, ensuring adequate airflow

beneath the roofing sheets is essential. This can be achieved

by incorporating ventilation gaps and using appropriate

materials such as ONDUTISS AIR, which is a high vapourpermeable

membrane designed to protect insulation while

allowing moisture to escape.

Made from approximately 50% recycled cellulose fibres,

ONDULINE DURO SX 35 roofing sheets are an excellent

choice for professionals seeking a robust and visually

appealing roofing solution. Here are some top tips on their

installation that will help specifiers better understand their use

on site:

• Step 1: Preparing the roof

It is crucial to ensure the roof structure is prepared according

to the recommended specifications. ONDULINE DURO SX

35 can be installed on a full deck (OSB or plywood with a

minimum thickness of 18mm) or on discontinuous support

(purlins or battens spaced at least every 37cm). For areas

with heavy snow, installing the sheets on decking is highly

recommended to maximise performance.

• Step 2: Laying the sheets

Initial placement: Begin by laying the sheets at the eaves area

with a maximum overhang of 3.5cm. The sheets should be

installed in the opposite direction of the prevailing winds to

ensure optimal resistance to wind uplift.

Staggering the rows: Start the second row with a half sheet

to stagger the rows. This staggering helps in better alignment

and waterproofing. Sideways, overlap the sheets by one

corrugation. Vertically align the two overlapping lines between

the sheets to create a perfect seal.

• Step 3: Fixing the sheets

Minimum fixings: Use a minimum of 15 fixings per sheet.

Ensure that the fixings go through the top of the corrugations

and are placed in the correct order, between the two

overlapping lines. Do not fix the last corrugation until it is

overlapped with the verge element or the next sheet.

Verge element: To enhance aesthetics and wind uplift

protection, use the verge element accessory. Fix the

verge element first on the sidewall and then on top of the

corrugation.

• Step 4: Covering the ridge

Ridge installation: Cover the ridge with the standard ridge

element, fixing it on each side of the roof on top of each

corrugation. The direction of the overlap should be opposite to

the direction of the prevailing winds to ensure proper sealing.

www.onduline.co.uk

28


ROOFING & CLADDING

GREEN ROOFS JUST GOT GREENER

A new integrated solar system uses the power of the sun, alongside the natural

filtration and insulation properties of a green roof, to deliver a double dose of

environmental benefits, writes Justin Pitman, Sales Director for Proteus

Waterproofing.

Combining the beauty and

environmental advantages of a

rooftop garden with the clean

energy generation of solar panels is the

ultimate eco-friendly roofing solution

for specifiers. This technology is now

available as part of the Proteus design

and installation package, transforming

a rooftop into a functional space that

enhances aesthetics, improves energy

efficiency and contributes to a healthier

environment.

Green roofs act as natural insulators,

absorbing heat from sunlight and

reducing the heat load on the building.

This leads to lower cooling costs

during hot summers and a significant

decrease in energy consumption for air

conditioning systems.

Meanwhile, the solar panels capture

the sun’s energy and convert it into

electricity. By integrating the panels with

a green roof, we can generate clean,

renewable energy to power a building,

reducing its reliance on the grid.

Green roofs act as natural filters,

absorbing pollutants and dust from

the air. They also release oxygen,

contributing to improved air quality in

urban areas. The diverse plant life on a

green roof further provides a haven for

pollinators, promoting biodiversity where

natural habitats are often scarce.

Most importantly, they also absorb and

retain rainwater, reducing the amount of

stormwater runoff that enters overloaded

drainage systems. This helps to mitigate

flooding risks and lessen the strain on

local water treatment facilities.

Complete technical support

Proteus Waterproofing offers a complete

technical design, installation and support

package for green roofs, which totally

eliminates the need to coordinate with

multiple vendors. This helps to streamline

the process, ensuring a seamless

installation experience for architects,

specifiers and building owners.

This extended system, now including

solar panels, is designed to provide a

thriving habitat for plant life while offering

essential structural support, with a range

of additional components designed to

ensure the panels integrate seamlessly

into the green roof design.

Components include a solar stand that

forms the base for the solar panels,

consisting of a base plate, profile holder

and mounting profiles with clamps. This

allows for flexible positioning in both

landscape and portrait orientations,

along with other various angles for

optimal sun exposure.

A pre-cultivated blanket featuring a mix

of 20-25 herb varieties and 4-6 types

of sedum plants, is also provided to

create a haven of biodiversity. These

plants deliver a beautiful aesthetic while

promoting healthy ecosystems and

rainwater retention. The blankets boast

at least 95% coverage upon delivery,

ensuring a lush and vibrant rooftop. A

roof garden substrate is included to

provide essential nutrients and drainage

for the plant life, the thickness and type

of which is determined based on wind

load calculations and ballast plans.

Made from recycled high-density

polyethylene (HDPE), an additional base

plate also provides a sturdy foundation

for the solar stand system. It includes

screw threads for attaching the profile

holder and is installed according to a

specific grid plan.

The system is completed with a 10mm

thick drainage sheet made from

recycled HDPE, featuring dimpled cores

for optimal drainage, together with a

polypropylene filter fleece bonded to the

top side, which prevents soil erosion

while ensuring efficient water flow. A

protective 300gr/m 2 cover, made from

recycled fibres, protects the underlying

layers during installation.

Once a customer chooses the green/

solar roof, the process begins with

a thorough site survey, employing

drones for inspections where access is

limited. Detailed reports ensure a clear

understanding of the project’s specific

needs. Proteus provides bespoke

specifications tailored to each project’s

unique requirements.

The design service also includes crucial

calculations such as U-Value (thermal

performance), condensation risk

analysis, wind uplift and drainage. A

choice of insulation options is included to

comply with Part B Fire regulations, and

to deliver optimal thermal performance

and fire safety, together with detailed

drawings and schedules so that all

components are properly specified and

installed.

It all adds up to a unique and compelling

proposition for architects, specifiers and

anyone seeking a sustainable roofing

solution.

www.proteuswaterproofing.co.uk

30

Performance

Aluminium Dry Verge


ROOFING & CLADDING

ACHIEVE HIGH ACOUSTIC

PERFORMANCE WITH ALUMINIUM

FAÇADES AND ROOFS

Aluminium’s ability to deliver high acoustic performance is a benefit that often goes

under the radar. Adrian Whitefoot, Special Projects Manager at Kalzip, delves into the

specification of aluminium roofing and façades for high acoustic performance.

Aluminium roofing and façades

are a popular choice for modern

architecture due to their sleek

aesthetics, durability and lightweight

nature. However, one aspect often

overlooked is their potential for

achieving high acoustic performance. By

incorporating specific design elements

and materials, aluminium roofing and

façades can be transformed into

effective sound barriers, creating a

quieter and more comfortable indoor

environment.

Known for offering a multitude of benefits

from durability to energy efficiency,

aluminium’s potential for high acoustic

performance is also incredibly important

for specifiers to consider, particularly

when it comes to meeting Approved

Document E, which relates to the

passage of sound in buildings, and

Building Bulletin 93 (BB93), which covers

acoustic design and performance in

schools.

Not only is it crucial to consider acoustic

performance for legislation and building

standards, but it also improves occupant

comfort, because reduced noise

pollution translates to a calmer and

more focused environment, especially in

educational institutions, hospitals, and

office buildings.

Consider the complete system

Achieving effective sound insulation

within aluminium façades is not exactly

about the material, but rather it lies in

the complete system of which aluminium

is a key component. Combining metal

cladding with insulation and acoustic

membranes creates a comprehensive

barrier against unwanted noise. Highdensity

materials such as mineral wool,

rigid slabs, or even cementitious boards

significantly dampen sound waves. The

thickness and density of the insulation

will depend on the desired level of noise

reduction, and this will all make up the

entire roofing or façade system.

Perforated aluminium panels also

allow for a creative balance between

aesthetics and acoustics. Tiny holes

strategically placed across the panels will

absorb sound waves while maintaining

a degree of airflow. A thin layer of an

acoustic anti-drumming membrane

applied directly beneath the aluminium

panels provides an additional layer of

sound absorption. These membranes,

often made from flexible polymers, are

lightweight and work across a broad

range of sound frequencies.

Approved Document E (ADE) plays a

crucial role in regulating the acoustic

performance of building elements,

including those in commercial buildings.

Part E sets out guidelines for achieving

resistance to sound passage in

buildings. This includes airborne sound,

such as speech or traffic noise, and

impact sound, like footsteps or dropped

objects. While not directly mentioned

in ADE, roofing and façades should be

considered by architects and specifiers

to contribute to the wider acoustic

performance of the building.

Another regulation is Building Bulletin

93, which sets limits for the level of

ambient noise in rooms and spaces

within a school based on how it is used.

For example, the limit in classrooms

and general teaching areas in primary

and secondary schools, including

those used for music and drama, is

35dB LAeq,30mins for new buildings

and 40dB LAeq,30mins for refurbished

buildings. Higher limits are set for sports

halls, dance studios and swimming

pools, while lower limits are given for

teaching spaces for students with

special hearing and communication

needs. Again, the roofing and façade

systems must be considered to achieve

these levels in schools.

There are a lot of intricacies with different

types of buildings and projects, which is

why specification of high-performance

acoustic aluminium requires early

collaboration between architects,

engineers, and material suppliers, such

as Kalzip. By understanding the specific

noise concerns and desired outcomes,

they can tailor a system that offers the

perfect blend of aesthetics and acoustic

control.

Kalzip has a wide range of aluminium

roofing and façade systems that excel in

high acoustic performance such as the

FC Rainscreen Façade. Not only does

Kalzip boast a wide range of systems,

but it also provides technical support

and consultation from an expert team.

www.kalzip.com

32


ROOFING & CLADDING

Open joint sidings are still

rarely seen in the UK,

despite being wellestablished

in Germany,

Holland and France.

However, this is starting to

change. Lisa Grosse,

Marketing Manager at

Cedral, provides an

overview of this emerging

style of facade.

Typically, Cedral planks are butt

jointed onto a hidden timber

framework, with ventilation being

taken care of from the top and bottom of

the facade. In the case of Cedral’s fibre

cement facades, click-jointed planks are

also available, which make it even easier

to construct a non-flammable, robust

and attractive exterior.

As the cladding market matured,

architects and designers have pushed

the envelope to create different styles.

One such approach is open joint fixing,

or any cladding which features a joint

gap of between 5 and 10mm. As highperforming

waterproof membranes are

becoming more common, designers are

gaining the confidence to explore new

innovations such as open joints, which

can create some stunning effects. This

trend has also been encouraged by the

wholesale shift in quality when it comes

to insulation material.

Open joint fixing

While every product will vary, it’s

important to understand the technical

limits when considering an open

jointed facade solution. At Cedral, we

MIND THE GAP

recommend a maximum gap of 10mm

and a maximum height of 10m for the

cladding. As this system allows more

water into the cavity space, it’s vital to

use a watertight, breathable membrane

fixed behind the vertical timber battens.

It’s also important to check you’re using

suitable insulation.

Ventilation and drainage

Although the open gaps will have a

positive influence on ventilation, we still

need to remember that the ‘stack effect’

is being relied on to achieve adequate

airflow behind the cladding. Don’t be

tempted to cut the planks flush with the

floor – a gap is needed.

Due to the nature of the open facade,

increased rainwater will gain access

into the cavity space. To allow infiltrated

moisture to escape, it is important to

build in openings at the bottom of the

cavity. We also recommend specific

tolerances regarding the allowable cavity

width air space when using open joined

cladding. In our case, we increase this

from 50mm to 75mm, with a tolerance of

20mm when designing a cavity.

A flexible, waterproof breathable

membrane is a must for this kind of

job. Make sure your membrane meets

EN 13859-2 as a minimum and has

increased UV stability to cope with

potential exposure to direct sunlight.

Batten sizes

When it comes to battens, we

recommend a minimum of 38mm by

60mm, however anything larger than

this gives you valuable tolerance for

adjustment. Long-term protection is

important and all horizontal battens

should be protected on the front and

top edge using UV-resistant joint sealing

strip or EPDM. Vertical counter-battens

should also be protected on the front

face by EPDM, covering the face

completely, with an overhang of at least

5mm.

Fixing options

Colour-matched screws create a really

professional look, especially where open

jointed cladding is concerned. However,

it is vital to understand the intricacies of

fixing centres and edge distances before

you fix anything to a batten.

Take the time to plan ahead and you’ll

end up with a great looking job. Every

system is different, but for Cedral,

we specify that planks are fixed twice

centred at each horizontal batten. Our

minimum width for two fixings is 80mm,

with an edge distance between 20mm

and 40mm.

Butt joints

Normally, in the gap laying pattern,

Cedral Lap is installed with a 5mm gap

between the jointed planks, with both

panel ends fixed to an underlying batten

at a 40mm distance from the butt end

edge.

While the correct location of battens

is an obvious consideration here, one

aspect that some installers overlook is

the type of butt joint. While it is easier to

create a standard 90-degree joint, we

encourage our installers to refer to the

local driving rain index, introducing an

angled, weathered joint if appropriate.

With the right preparation and support

from your cladding manufacturer, open

cladding is a new option and another

great example of the versatility of

rainscreen facades.

www.cedral.world

34

YOUR TRUSTED PARTNER FOR

COMPREHENSIVE ALL-IN-ONE

CLADDING SYSTEMS

Valcan take immense pride in offering a diverse

selection of complete cladding systems, encompassing

every element needed to achieve a flawless building

envelope.

Systems include components, fixing assemblies, and

tailored options for both new build and recladding

projects.

Example: Ceramapanel Fibre Cement

Secret Fix Cladding system

This comprehensive approach integrates critical

components, addressing diverse needs while adhering

to the principles of the Building Safety Act 2022 and

the Golden Thread of information. Compliance and

building safety are at the forefront of everything we do.

Our knowledgeable team are ready to provide you

with expert advice and guidance. Contact them at

enquiries@valcan.co.uk or call 01278 804016

quoting ref: RCI-AUG24

Our complete aluminium

cladding systems consist of

all the key components you need

from Valcan and partner Certifix.

A1 & A2 CLADDING PANELS | CLADDING SUBFRAME SYSTEMS | SHEATHING BOARDS | INSULATION

FIRE BARRIERS | ACCESSORIES & FIXINGS | LOGISTICS | ACCESSORIES | FABRICATION | WARRANTIES

www.valcan.co.uk | enquiries@valcan.co.uk


ROOFING & CLADDING

FORMER ARMY BASE TURNED

HOUSING DEVELOPMENT GETS HELP

FROM ABOVE

Reduced build times, consistent thermal performance and health and safety

benefits saw Smartroof’s offsite manufactured modular roof system chosen for

homes and apartment blocks at a stunning housing development in Folkestone.

Formerly the MOD Shorncliffe

Garrison Barracks, Officers’

Mess at Shorncliffe Heights has

been designed by FCS for developer

Taylor Wimpey. It comprises 44 new

homes including one and two-bedroom

apartments, plus three, four and five-bed

homes. Smartroof’s panelised ‘room

in roof’ system has been specified for

four standard home plots within the

development and is being used for the

first time across two apartment blocks.

For the four homes, Smartroof provided

an eaves-to-ridge and gable-to-gable

system with timber dormers and

enhanced U-values to both the roof

cassettes and gable spandrel panels.

The specification for the three and a

half storey apartment blocks provided

Smartroof with an opportunity to

showcase its ‘room in roof’ system on a

much larger scale. It is typically used for

the creation of roofs on detached, semidetached

and terraced homes.

For large two-storey homes, Smartroof

would normally supply 10 panels.

However, when presented with the

challenge of delivering an offsite

produced ‘room in roof’ system for

these much larger apartment blocks,

the company engineered the system

to demonstrate the versatility of offsite

manufacture. The roofs required

46 panels across three separate roof

sections.

Designed with hipped gable ends, it

was critical for the team at Smartroof

to maintain adequate fire resistance

and separation within the roofing voids.

The Smartroof system lends itself well

to effective firestopping at party walls.

The factory manufactured pre-insulated

spandrel panels meet fire rating

requirements and will act as a fire break

and maintain fire compartmentation

within the roof space.

A complete offsite solution

Comprising a series of factory produced

panels incorporating insulated roof

panels, spandrel wall panels, dormers,

roof windows, GRP chimneys, soffit and

fascia, Smartroof is delivered to site and

craned into place. Once in place, the

roofs simply require roof felt and tiling.

The system has many benefits – less

waste, better control of quality, and

safer to install – and meets the industry’s

demand for solutions that allow better

quality homes to be built more efficiently.

The controlled

environment of

Smartroof’s offsite

fabrication facility

meant the technical

team could achieve the

architect’s design with

millimetre precision

The controlled environment of

Smartroof’s offsite fabrication facility

meant the technical team could achieve

the architect’s design with millimetre

precision both in terms of the compound

cuts and fabrication, particularly when it

came to the two hip ends. Designed and

manufactured at the Smartroof factory in

Derbyshire, the prefabricated roofs were

then delivered to the Folkestone site,

craned into place and installed by the

Smartroof team.

Lewis Catt, Buying Manager at Taylor

Wimpey, said: “Smartroof’s offsite

manufactured roof system provided

enormous advantages for both the

homes and apartment blocks. By

moving roof construction offsite into a

controlled factory setting, Smartroof

enabled significant safety improvements

and accelerated project timelines.”

At a time when the housebuilding

industry needs to build better and

smarter, the offsite fabrication of the

roofs at the Officers’ Mess provided

Taylor Wimpey with huge benefits in

terms of health and safety, speed of

construction and quality control, the

company said.

smartroof.co.uk

36

A Cut Above.

Proudly made in the UK for almost 30 years, Roofshield®

is the real deal in air and vapour permeable roofing membranes.

Super strong, durable, the original, this construction gem can

withstand anything nature throws its way. Now available at

a more competitive price than ever before.

Forever Original

donlow.co.uk


ROOFING & CLADDING

PRODUCTS

IT’S NOW EASIER TO DO THE RIGHT THING BY

BATS

Finding suitable roosting spots for bats in urban areas has

become increasingly difficult due to improved building

practices and materials that reduce defects.

The Manthorpe Bat Ridge Roost provides a solution by

offering these important pollinators a new home among the

rooftops. The Ridge Roost provides an optimised, purposebuilt

roosting habitat for small crevice-dwelling species, and

is the result of a partnership between Manthorpe and the bat

experts at the Bat Conservation Trust (BCT).

The product is situated at the roof’s apex, acting as the

ridge end cap itself. This elevated spot gives bats that high

vantage point they crave, with a secure, self-contained

space offering protection from predators and the elements.

The interior was carefully designed, with climbing grooves

and a rougher recycled polymer surface allowing easier

manoeuvrability inside while thermal testing and an

insulated inner chamber creates a temperature-stable

environment.

Suitable for both newbuild and refurbishment projects,

the two-part installation process works with both dry verge

systems and traditional verge details and ensures there are

no entry points into the roof space itself.

www.manthorpebp.co.uk/ridgeroost

HEAVY-DUTY BARRIER ROOF UNDERLAY OFFERS

BBA CERTIFICATION

Don & Low’s MultiTX Maxi heavy-duty barrier roof underlay

has been successfully assessed by the BBA and now holds

a BBA Agrément Certificate.

Part of the extended MultiΤΧ range, MultiTX Maxi is a

high vapour resistance, air and liquid barrier underlay

for use in pitched roofs. Weighing 190gsm, it provides

enhanced durability and superior protection against the

elements, helping to prolong the longevity of the roof.

MultiTX Maxi serves as a modern alternative to traditional

bituminous-based (type 1F) roofing felts. It has excellent

low-temperature flexibility, while also being resistant to water

penetration and stabilised against UV degradation.

The BBA Agrément Certificate is a mark of excellence

based on rigorous national and European standards that

validate a construction product’s specialist formulation,

capability and uniqueness. The BBA has determined that

the MultiTX Maxi is well suited to its intended use and can

satisfy all relevant requirements of the essential building

regulations.

The extended MultiTX range of barrier roof underlays now

consists of four products: MultiTX Plus (116gsm), MultiTX

Pro (145gsm), MultiTX Maxi (190gsm) and the specifically

engineered for integrated solar roofs MultiTX Solar.

www.donlow.co.uk

ONLINE SOLAR CALCULATOR HELPS MAKE

QUOTES EASY

SIG Roofing has harnessed the power of cutting-edge

mapping technology to create a user-friendly online Solar

Calculator. The tool enables solar installation quotes to be

created quickly, evaluating the cost and payback period for

any UK domestic property.

The calculator uses the latest solar and satellite

technology from Google to automatically scan a building’s

roof, calculating the most cost-efficient panel array for

optimal solar potential. It may even show that fewer panels

will allow for the same return due to roof positioning. Fully

informed about the building’s shading, angle, direction

and numerous other data points, it overlays the number of

solar panels that can fit in the space and their projected

effectiveness.

The user can then adjust the number of panels to create

their ideal setup. The calculator will then assess what

solar product is required, including any relevant fixings,

provide the cost of materials, and estimate the energy the

solar panels will generate each year. If the user provides

the property’s current annual energy usage in KWH, the

calculator will also work out the payback period.

www.sigroofing.co.uk/solar

38

BRE tested

to PD CEN/TR

15601

Test B & D

TAKE A CLOSER

LOOK AT OUR

UNIQUE NEW GRP

HERITAGE VALLEY

The innovative dry-fix invisible valley trough, that’s cost-effective,

simple to use...and not just for heritage projects!

• Unique S-profile design • No valley roof tile required • No special eaves closures required

• Far less tile-and-a-half or slate-and-a-half required • BRE weather resistance tested

www.filon.co.uk

Telephone 01543 687300 Email: sales@filon.co.uk


ROOFING & CLADDING

BITUMEN WATERPROOFING

PROVIDES ROBUST PROTECTION

FOR LANDMARK PROJECT

A vibrant development in the

heart of Edinburgh has

benefited from RESITRIX, a

hybrid EPDM bitumen

waterproofing system that

offers reliability and quality.

Specify & Build reports.

Located close to the train station

of the same name, the £350m

Haymarket development in

Edinburgh aims to deliver a ‘vibrant

oasis in the city centre’, with the first

phase comprising 390,000 sq ft of

office space and 40,000 sq ft of retail

accommodation, constructed by Sir

Robert McAlpine. The multi-phase

urban regeneration project has been

designed by architectural practice Foster

+ Partners, and developed by Q Mile, a

multi-award winning property developer.

The scheme required a roofing system

that would provide the highest standards

of performance, reliability, quality

and durability, installed by experts.

The RESITRIX hybrid EPDM bitumen

waterproofing system from CARLISLE

was chosen, and installed thanks to the

expertise of Edinburgh-based roofing

contractor, Site Sealants.

Buildings 1, 4 and 5 at the development

have a warm roof installed onto a

concrete deck, with a roof build-up

consisting of FG 35 Primer, followed by

ALUTRIX 600 vapour barrier membrane,

cellular glass insulation board, RESITRIX

SKW fully bonded membrane and

drainage matting. The developer required

a fire-resistant roof build-up and the

RESITRIX system had impressed the

client on a previous project.

RESITRIX combines the robustness

and high-performance of bitumen with

the flexibility and elasticity of EPDM

in a single membrane, providing the

advantages of two proven materials in a

single layer. RESITRIX offers flame-free

installation, adding to a low-risk strategy

for both the construction and operational

phases. RESITRIX fully bonds to the roof

surface and a hot air gun is used to seal

the laps and complete the details. This

prevented any delays to the programme

that may otherwise have been caused

by the need to follow a hot works permit

system.

Laura Duncan from Site Sealants says:

“The main health and safety challenge

for this project was planning and

implementing a safe system of works for

a major scheme located on a city centre

site adjacent to a busy railway station,

so choosing a waterproofing membrane

with flame-free installation was vital.

“Resitrix was ideal for providing a robust

waterproofing membrane to withstand

foot traffic on the walkable terrace areas

of the roofs. It also delivers the added

benefits of an extended service life and

low maintenance, which align with the

calibre of the project, the expectations

of occupiers, and the prestige of the

location.”

Design versatility

The expertise of the Site Sealants team

and the versatility of the RESITRIX

system were both essential elements

in overcoming the project’s buildability

challenges.

Site Sealants was approached by the

project’s design team to help resolve

challenges with the design for the

parapet level. The original design was

for insulated cladding panels, however

costs and lead times meant this was

not viable. Site Sealants produced

a cost-effective alternative design

solution, which included complete wind

uplift and U-value calculations, along

with a combination of ALUTRIX 600

VCL, insulation, and RESITRIX SKW

waterproofing membrane. This avoided

an eight-week delay waiting for and

installing the cladding panels.

The result of this solution was a very

neat finish, with the membrane following

the contours of the junction between

the roof and the parapet. The lap lies

flat onto the field area of the RESITRIX

membrane, where it has been hot-air

welded, providing an extremely robust

waterproofed junction between the roof

and the parapet.

Quality assurance

The Site Sealants team are Level 2

trained RESITRIX installers. Regular

site inspections were carried out by

CARLISLE’s technical team, Site

Sealants’ senior team and the main

contractor to ensure the system

was installed in accordance with

the specification and manufacturer’s

guidelines.

A flood test was also carried out, with

each roof area being completely flooded

and submerged for several days to

check for leaks and vulnerabilities.

carlisleconstructionmaterials.com

40


ROOFING & CLADDING

PRODUCTS

GLIDEVALE PROTECT PUBLISHES ROOF SPACE

VENTILATION TECHNICAL GUIDANCE

Glidevale Protect has released two visual technical guides

to help specifiers and roofing contractors determine

the correct roof space ventilation requirements for both

permeable and impermeable roof coverings, depending on

the type of pitched roofing underlay used.

Ensuring roofs comply with BS 5250:2021, the code of

practice for the management of moisture in buildings, is

essential to prevent the build-up of condensation which can

lead to damp and mould. Glidevale Protect has simplified

this issue into two single-page flow charts that help identify

the correct roofing membrane and ventilation solutions

based on various factors. The first guide addresses

permeable roof coverings, such as clay or concrete tiles and

natural slate tiles, while the second focuses on impermeable

roof coverings, like in-roof solar PV panels, man-made

slates, or metal sheeting.

These documents help specifiers and contractors to the

most appropriate roofing membrane and ventilation solution,

whether installed on a cold or warm roof. Additionally, the

documents provide guidance on whether counter battens

are necessary and if ventilation is needed above or below

the membrane, among other considerations.

The guides follow the white paper Glidevale Protect

published last year, which offers practical guidance on the

ventilation strategies required for use with different roofing

membranes to meet the requirements of BS 5250. The new

technical guides are a handy summary of this document,

demonstrating how to build tight and ventilate right to create

healthy buildings.

www.glidevaleprotect.com

SOPREMA DUOFLEX SYSTEMS ACHIEVE UK BBA

ACCREDITATION

SOPREMA’s DuoFlex hot melt single pour system has

received UK British Board of Agrément (BBA) accreditation.

This endorses DuoFlex for a variety of applications

including weatherproofing inverted roofs, zero fall roofs,

roof gardens, blue roof specifications in combination with

stormwater attenuation systems, and protected roofs with

limited access in flat roof specifications.

With an unrestricted fire resistance classification,

DuoFlex ensures maximum safety and the system’s hot

liquid application guarantees optimal adhesion, creating

a fully integrated, robust bond with the roof structure. Its

monolithic, self-healing properties provide a seamless,

durable waterproof barrier that can repair small penetrations

autonomously. Additionally, DuoFlex supports fast-track and

phased installations, with a 30 year warranty for the single

pour system and 40 years for the double pour system.

www.soprema.co.uk

A HIGH-PERFORMANCE ALTERNATIVE TO ‘SLATE

AND A HALF’

Kytun has introduced its latest solution for the roofing

market. Kytun Performance Plus Aluminium Dry Verge

provides an alternative to ‘slate and a half’ requirements,

securing both standard (250mm) and half-width (125mm)

slates at the roof verge – to provide savings on installation

time and materials.

The product has been independently BRE tested and

proven to withstand wind forces at least 10 times higher than

the maximum expected wind uplift in the UK or Ireland.

Technical Manager Matt McAndry said: “I see firsthand

the challenges that both roofers and merchants face

daily with traditional roofing methods. First, there are the

availability and supply issues that make obtaining slate and

half-sized units is a struggle. Then, there is colour matching,

where roofers can experience inconsistent batch colours

from quarries. Price is also a factor. Currently they cost

£7.50 per unit, but the industry is anticipating this could

rise to £10, and shipping costs are expensive relative to

standard-size slate.”

Merchants have also faced availability issues around

these products, as well as the challenge of colour-matching

natural slates. Underperforming verge options have led to a

demand from merchants for better-performing products.

Kytun’s Performance Plus Aluminium Dry Verge offers

time and installation savings for roofers, who can use

standard size stock slates and halve them on site, with no

need to trim slates for ‘alternative bonding solutions’.

The company says there is also the potential to benefit

from significant material and cost savings (circa £400

per roof) from not buying slate-and-a-half products and

eliminating waste on site.

The new product also offers a sharp, stylish finish. The

natural bonding pattern is maintained and the verge finished

with continuous trim, providing a sleek look and durable

finish.

The products are stocked nationwide and easily

available for quick and easy delivery across the UK

and Ireland, solving a key issue for merchants. It also

eliminates the concern of slate colour inconsistencies and

underperforming products.

www.kytun.com/performance-plus

42


SMART TECHNOLOGY

BRIDGING THE DIGITAL DIVIDE

In this digitally driven era, robust internet connectivity has evolved from a luxury to

an indispensable utility, just like water or electricity. As smart buildings and cuttingedge

technologies continue to redefine our living and working standards and trends,

the need for a resilient internet infrastructure cannot be overstated, as

Pulse Fibre explores.

The need for robust internet

connectivity goes beyond

simple convenience. It

enables the easy integration

of smart home devices

and empowers communities through

affordable access. From facilitating

instant communication and information

exchange to unlocking opportunities

for growth and innovation, the impact

of a regulated and successful internet

infrastructure now affects every corner of

modern society.

As a consequence, the concept of

smart buildings is rapidly gaining

traction, with the market expected to

grow at an impressive rate of 26.5%

from 2023 to 2030, according to recent

reports. At the core of these intelligent

structures lies the Internet of Things

(IoT), an ecosystem of interconnected

devices that all rely on a stable internet

connection to exchange data and

facilitate intelligent applications.

The array of internet-dependent

applications now being integrated into

modern homes underscores the need for

strong and reliable internet connectivity.

Technologies range from smart washing

machines and security systems to

devices like Ring and Nest, all of which

require a seamless internet connection

for synchronisation and protection. Even

some door keys have evolved to require

online connectivity, particularly those

reliant on digital codes for access.

Electric vehicle chargers are another

example of a digital infrastructure that

requires a strong internet service.

Without a reliable internet connection,

the charger’s security features, including

locking mechanisms, may fail, potentially

allowing unauthorised access to

charging facilities. This highlights the

critical role that dependable internet

connectivity plays in ensuring the efficacy

and security of smart buildings.

Optimising connectivity solutions

As our need for high-speed, reliable

internet increases, so does the need to

leverage existing infrastructure to meet

demands. But overbuilding parallel

passive fibre infrastructures not only

increases costs and disruption, but also

poses its own risks for both consumers

and companies.

High levels of overbuild result in more

operators using the same limited

customer base, exacerbating the

challenges faced by smaller network

providers who may have invested heavily

in laying fibre cables only to be undercut

by larger competitors. This situation

not only threatens the financial viability

of these providers, but also hampers

innovation and competition within the

industry.

44


SMART TECHNOLOGY

Pulse Fibre recognises the importance of

inclusivity and is committed to unlocking

affordable connectivity through its social tariff.

By utilising existing cabling infrastructure,

we can reduce the need for disruptive

roadworks and minimise the carbon

emissions associated with construction

works. Embracing a regulated market

approach similar to the UK’s energy

market, where a central network hub

serves multiple service providers, can

foster a more efficient and sustainable

broadband ecosystem.

Fibre to the Premises (FTTP) connectivity

is an effective solution for smart

buildings, offering unparalleled capacity,

speed, and reliability. Providers like Pulse

Fibre can deliver symmetrical speeds up

to 1Gb. With plans to introduce speeds

of up to 10Gb, Pulse Fibre will continue

to meet the evolving needs of modern

homeowners who rely on high-speed

networks in both directions.

Democratising digital access

As the cost of living continues to

rise, affordable internet connectivity

has become a pressing concern for

many households. Unfortunately, a

significant portion of financially vulnerable

households remain unaware of the

existence of social tariffs – discounted

broadband packages designed to make

internet access more accessible to

those in need. Pulse Fibre recognises

the importance of inclusivity and is

committed to unlocking affordable

connectivity through its social tariff. By

offering lightning-fast speeds of up to

100Mbps – one of the fastest on the

market – at a 40% discount, Pulse Fibre

empowers communities and bridges the

digital divide.

Moreover, Pulse Fibre streamlines the

process for developers working on

newbuild developments by pre-activating

the discount before homeowners move

in. Furthermore, its ‘Construction Mode’

feature is an online system and backend

infrastructure that allows developers

to activate the internet during the build

phase of a project. This enables the

configuration of smart features such

as EV chargers, security systems and

heating systems.

This proactive approach also ensures

that residents can immediately access

affordable, high-quality internet services

from day one, without the hassle of

complex and long activation processes.

Forging a new future

Using our existing infrastructure and

embracing a regulated market approach

will allow the UK to create a more

efficient, sustainable, and equitable

broadband ecosystem.

The integration of smart technologies

into our homes and buildings

necessitates robust internet connectivity,

ensuring the seamless operation of

internet-dependent amenities and

empowering developers to realise the full

potential of smart building technologies.

Furthermore, by offering affordable

social housing tariffs and prioritising

inclusivity, providers can break down

barriers and ensure that everyone has

access to the essential digital services

and opportunities that reliable internet

connectivity provides.

Amidst the current global digital

revolution, Pulse Fibre is eager to work

towards an intelligently interconnected,

equitable, and future-proof internet

landscape. Through an approach that

harnesses the potential of existing

infrastructure assets, Pulse Fibre

champions both innovation and

accessibility. By unlocking the synergies

between cutting-edge technologies and

cost-effective strategies, Pulse Fibre is

helping to pave the way for a seamlessly

integrated digital world, where no

community is left behind on the path to

universal connectivity.

pulsefibre.co.uk

45


WINDOWS, DOORS &

ENTRANCE SYSTEMS

A WARM AND WELCOMING HOME

Emma Fowlds, Junior

Marketing Manager at

Distinction Doors, explains

how installing highperformance

entrance

doors can help

homeowners save energy.

High energy costs have been

challenging for many households

in recent years. Energy saving tips

online have been shared and viewed in

abundance as consumers seek ways

to cut energy bills. A study by energy

provider EDF found that millions of Brits

are using TikTok, Instagram and Chat

GPT for free energy saving advice.

While the energy price cap is set to

fall again between 1 st July and 30 th

September, prices are still high. Energy

costs, therefore, are likely to remain a

key influencer in consumer decision

making, not least when it comes to

home improvement.

Making homes warmer has been a

notable theme in the home improvement

sector for several years now, with a

growing emphasis on a product’s energy

performance and associated energy

ratings as part of the buying process.

According to the Energy Saving Trust

(EST) draught-proofing is the number

one way to help reduce energy bills. This

is less of an issue in newbuild properties

but for those working on home

renovation and refurbishment projects, it

is essential to the project brief.

Invest in high-performance products

As a leading UK supplier of GRP

composite doors, we fully appreciate

how a high-performance entrance

door can positively impact the energy

efficiency of a building. Feedback tells us

that homeowners and new home buyers

are aware of this too and this is affecting

purchase decisions.

Those who can afford to improve

their homes are choosing to invest in

high-quality products which deliver

long-term reward, while purchasers of

newbuild properties are becoming more

demanding. They are seeking a newbuild

home that will not only enhance their

lifestyle but will also reduce the cost of

living through energy saving measures

and green technology. The design

and specification of products such as

composite entrance doors are essential

in meeting these demands.

Unrivalled thermal performance

To succeed, architects and specifiers

must understand the thermal

performance of an entrance door.

External doors must meet specific

requirements for U-value or Doorset

Energy Rating (DSER), when calculated

for the complete doorset not just the

door blank or glass.

To comply with the latest regulations,

entrance doors used in refurbishment

schemes, which account for most door

sales in the UK, must now achieve a

U-value of 1.4W/m 2 K or Doorset Energy

Rating (DSER) B.

Composite doors offer superior thermal

performance, and the difference is

clear when replacing a PVC door. It’s

one of the main reasons why they are

the number one door in the UK, with

a Distinction door among the most

thermally efficient entrance doors on

the market. When compared to a solid,

timber core composite door (48mm)

and a timber panelled door (44mm),

calculations show that our composite

door is 50% more thermally efficient than

the alternatives.

A Distinction door is designed to

maximise thermal performance. The

thick door skin is combined with our

high insulating foam core for exceptional

thermal insulation, while compression

strips and brushes create a seal with

the door frame when the door is closed.

With our glazed door styles, the glass

meets the same high standards as our

doors with our double and triple glazed

options laminated as standard.

Over the long-term, a composite

entrance door will help to reduce energy

usage and lower energy bills, supporting

those who wish to reduce their carbon

footprint and avoid contributing to

climate change. Coupled with enhanced

security, low maintenance benefits and

an array of door styles, paint colours

and glass options, there is a composite

door to suit even the most discerning of

clients.

www.distinctiondoors.co.uk

46

Bringing together a suite of

premium window and door

systems designed and made in

Great Britain.

The Residence Collection can

be the perfect solution for your

project. Offering u-values as

low as 0.74W/m 2 K with triple

glazing. Beautiful windows and

doors that complement your

development, whilst performing

to the highest standards.

Whether you choose R9, R7 or

R 2 , our team will support your

through the entire process.

01452 945 633

residencecollectiontrade.co.uk

trade@residencecollection.co.uk

FINALIST

WINDOWS, DOORS &

ENTRANCE SYSTEMS

FORMER BANK IS TRANSFORMED BY

TIMBER-ALTERNATIVE WINDOWS

Twenty-six original timber alternative windows from premium window and door

designer, The Residence Collection, have been installed into a former bank as part of

a new apartment project in Thame.

For this commercial project, partnering with installer

Silent View Windows and fabricator CWG Choices, The

Residence Collection windows were installed to the

historic 18 th century building in the centre of Thame Town High

Street.

Residence 9 windows in the popular Grained White colourway,

featuring leaded glass, were used to provide elements of

19 th -century architectural design, replicating the style of the

original structure. These windows offer modern functionality

and energy efficiency, aligning with the preservation needs of

the conservation area in Thame, Oxfordshire. Notably, R9 was

the only timber alternative window that was approved during

the planning process.

Sensitive heritage refurbishments

When it comes to upgrading heritage projects sensitively,

The Residence Collection has gained widespread approval

from local authorities in conservation areas and Grade-II

listed buildings throughout the UK. This approval allows for

a smoother installation process for installers and specifiers,

eliminating a major obstacle to preserving the historical

character of these heritage properties.

The windows selected for the apartment project in Thame

exceeded British Building Regulation standards with a u-value

of 1.2W/m²K, offering double glazing as standard and A++

energy ratings. The R9 collection, available in 21 colours,

provides optimal insulation and energy savings.

Jo Trotman, Marketing Manager at The Residence Collection,

says: “This project is a perfect example of how the R9

windows can be used to replicate that heritage look and feel

while still being high-performing and energy-efficient. The

developer opted for a window that perfectly complemented

the building while still capitalising on all the other performance

qualities that the R9 boasts and expertly fitted by Silent View

Windows.

“The transformation of the Thame-based historic NatWest

Bank offices into modern apartments presented a unique set

of challenges and opportunities. Retaining the architectural

integrity of the original structure was paramount, and the R9

windows provided an ideal solution by combining traditional

aesthetics with cutting-edge functionality. The result is a

seamless blend of old and new, honouring the building’s legacy

while providing contemporary living spaces. We look forward to

working on more projects with Silent View Windows.”

www.residencecollection.co.uk

The Q19 Group comprises three UK-based

brands: The Residence Collection, Window

Widgets, and Profoil. Working together,

the businesses are changing the perception of the

UK fenestration market through forward-thinking

design and product innovation.

The Residence Collection represents three

innovative flush PVCu window and door systems

- R9, R7 and R². Sister brand Window Widgets

offers a large range of universal window and door

ancillaries for all fabricators and installers, while

Profoil provides foiling services to the fenestration

and building materials markets in the UK and

Republic of Ireland.

48

We celebrate

75 years of

enhancing lives.

Since the day Helmut Wagner founded REHAU

in 1948, our company has radically transformed

itself and created innovations that have changed

the world.

The number 75 is of great value to REHAU.

It stands for a time in which a 3-man company

has grown into a global corporation. This number

stands for the tireless commitment of our great

employees, who work on new solutions for our

customers every day, and it represents important

years of learning, further development and

exciting projects.

www.rehau.com/group-en/75-years-rehau


WINDOWS & ENTRANCE

SYSTEMS PRODUCTS

SENIOR UNVEILS ALI VU HERITAGE STYLE

ALUMINIUM DOOR

Senior Architectural Systems has extended its Ali VU range

of slimline aluminium windows and doors with the addition

of a new heritage-style door option.

The sleek and stylish Ali VU door has been developed

to offer an attractive, secure and thermally efficient solution

for retrofit and refurbishment projects. There is a choice

of two transom designs for greater design flexibility, and a

selection of heritage-style handles and backing plates.

Fully Part L compliant, Senior’s new door can achieve

U-values as low as 1.0 W/m 2 K when calculated as a CEN

standard door. Available in both inward and outward

opening single or double door styles, with a choice of

double and triple glazing up to 44mm thick, the door has

a maximum door leaf width of 1,200mm and a maximum

height of 2,500mm. It can accommodate a maximum weight

of 125kg per door leaf and has been fully security tested to

PAS24. It has also been tested to BS6375 Part 1 for weather

tightness and BS6375 Part 2 for operating forces.

www.seniorarchitectural.co.uk

DECEUNINCK EARNS HEALTH AND SAFETY

ACCREDITATION AT THE FIRST ATTEMPT

Deceuninck has added to its International Organization for

Standardisation (ISO) accreditations with the addition of

ISO 45001, recognising excellence in operational health

and safety.

Demonstrating a solid framework for the health, safety,

productivity and wellbeing of its employees, ISO 45001

accompanies ISO 9001, recognising Deceuninck’s quality

in its extrusion and products, and ISO 14001, recognising

its environmental pledges, in Deceuninck’s list of ISO

achievements.

Darren Woodcock, Deceuninck Operations Director, said:

“We have been putting a lot of hard work into our health

and safety on site – it’s one of the most important aspects

at Deceuninck, that we vigorously ensure our employees’

safety.

“So we attempted to achieve ISO 45001 and we got it at

the first attempt, which was fantastic news. We plan to run

the three accreditations for the next three years, and then

roll them into one accreditation during a week-long audit in

2027.”

Deceuninck has already lowered the carbon footprint

of its operations by 21% compared to its 2021 baseline,

in line with its commitment to the Science Based Targets

programme, with a headline pledge to cut its operational

CO 2

emissions (Scope 1&2) by 60%.

www.deceuninck.co.uk

STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP CREATES NEW

WOOD-ALUMINIUM WINDOW AND DOOR SYSTEM

A strategic partnership between GUTMANN and The

Joinery Network has created a new GUTMANN LIGNUM

wood-aluminium window and door system.

The timber-aluclad product has been specifically

designed to suit the UK’s housing stock. It benefits from the

certification and Secured By Design accreditation awarded

across the Lignum range of windows and doors.

Paul Barden, GUTMANN Director UK & Ireland, said:

“The Joinery Network is a natural partner for GUTMANN

as we share a vision of producing top quality, sustainable

window and door systems. Working together we have

developed a high-performance product, ensuring the

aesthetics were right for UK homes and buildings.”

Luke Piper, Founder Partner for The Joinery Network,

added: “Joinery manufacturers and installation companies

have been asking us for a timber aluclad window and door

range that fits in with UK houses. The new GUTMANN

LIGNUM suite represents a significant addition to our fully

Document Q certified offer.”

www.thejoinerynetwork.co.uk

50

Kubu

Kubu Smart Security

Your Front Door is Unlocked

Now

BEST COMPONENT

SUPPLIER ‘23

BEST NEW

PRODUCT ‘23

BEST WINDOW

COMPONENT ‘23

BEST DOOR

COMPONENT ‘23

BEST MARKETING

CAMPAIGN ‘22

Kubu is a multi-award winning range of high-security Smart

sensors that fit seamlessly into your doors and windows, and

integrates with other Smart Home devices to create a next

generation perimeter alarm system that is simple to fit, and

provides added value for the fabricator, installer or property

developer with virtually no additional cost.

To find out more about how working with Kubu can add value

to your business:

Visit: getkubu.com/trade or email: sales@getkubu.com

Be Sure It’s Secure, with Kubu


NEW PRODUCTS

SAMAC FIXINGS LAUNCHES ROOFTEC FLEX

Samac Fixing’s Rooftec Flex Plus is a self-adhesive lead

substitute made from EPDM-rubber and reinforced with an

expanded aluminium mesh core for exceptional strength

and life expectancy.

Rooftec Flex Plus is suitable for both flat and pitched

roofs. It features a sheet aluminium base topped with a

protective polyurethane layer and a bottom coating of butyl

adhesive, which bonds securely to all building materials to

form a watertight joint that requires no additional tape or

sealant.

The malleable Rooftec Flex Plus is lightweight and easy

to handle. It can be easily cut and shaped with scissors

and a seam roller, and can be installed in continuous rolls

of up to 5m as it is not susceptible to thermal expansion. It

is compatible with different substrates such as concrete,

wood, and metal.

As EPDM is made from synthetic rubber derived from

natural gas and oil, it can be easily recycled at the end of

its life. It has excellent UV resistance, maintains its flexibility

and lightness over time, is non-toxic and, as it has no scrap

value, is not a target for thieves.

www.samacfixings.co.uk

ACCEPT NO COMPROMISE IN BUILDING

PERFORMANCE

Form should never compromise function, particularly

in respect of building design. For specifiers, early

engagement with a specialist insulation manufacturer

can ensure design intentions and building regulation

requirements are realised. To determine a building’s

thermal efficiency, U-value calculations are pivotal. An

insulation board’s fire safety performance, compressive

strength and moisture resistance must also form part of the

conversation.

With Eurowall+, Recticel has produced an insulation

panel that achieves regulation targets for walls while

simplifying the installation process. A 90mm Eurowall+

PIR board can help to achieve 0.18 U-value in a traditional

100mm cavity, with the 10mm air gap facilitating its easier

installation.

The tightening of building energy targets has advanced

the need for insulation products that help fulfil design

possibilities while satisfying regulation compliance. A good

example of this is Deck-VQ, Recticel’s ultra-thin vacuum

insulation panel (VIP). Deck-VQ maximises comfort and

protection where insulation build-up thickness is an issue.

Suitable for a wide range of flat-roof and terrace

applications, Deck-VQ delivers a thermal performance as

low as 0.008W/mK while its VIP core provides a Lambda

value of 0.006 W/mK.

www.recticelinsulation.com

WATERPROOFING AND EXPANSION JOINTS

AVAILABLE WITH A SINGLE WARRANTY

Redefining UK car park construction is the launch of a

one-stop-shop for waterproofing and expansion joints by

Soprema, with both covered under a single warranty.

Soprema has partnered with German company

MIGUA, an expert in expansion joint systems, to offer a

comprehensive single warranty system tailored for newbuild

and refurbishment car park applications.

Streamlining the car park specification and construction

process, specifiers can draw on the two companies’

decades of technical knowledge and experience to deliver

superior protection against the challenges posed by the

elements.

The products offer exceptional resistance to high-volume

traffic loads, temperature variations and weather-induced

stresses, safeguarding the structural integrity of car parks

and providing long-lasting performance.

MIGUA expansion joint systems are tailored from a

comprehensive range of product options which, backed

by the company’s engineering excellence, can be adapted

for more challenging situations and bespoke solutions

developed if required. Then a single warranty is issued,

covering both Soprema’s waterproofing and MIGUA’s

expansion joint systems.

www.soprema.co.uk

52

THE FUTURE IS

GOLDEN!

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*Third party accreditation regularly audited by CATG (UKAS Accredited) to ensure continued

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01623 446 800 | www.sr-timber.co.uk

SRTA0724 V2 | © SR Timber 2024. All rights reserved. The information contained in this document

is believed to be correct at the date of publication. Images shown are for illustration purposes only.


SECURITY & FIRE

PROTECTION

GET FIRE DOOR IRONMONGERY

SPECIFICATION RIGHT TO AVOID

NON-COMPLIANCE

Recent media coverage

has highlighted a critical

issue in fire safety: noncompliant

fire doors. Kelly

Wing, Senior Category &

Direct Sourcing Manager

at IronmongeryDirect,

guides specifiers on how to

ensure doors are

compliant, reviewing

everything from selecting

the right door closers and

hinges down to

intumescent seals.

Fire doors are an important part

of the overall fire strategy for a

building and essential for safe

evacuation in the event of a

fire as outlined in Approved

Document B (Fire safety) in England and

Wales, Section 2 in Scotland and Part

E in Northern Ireland. It’s also advisable

to check for additional local authority

requirements or recommendations for

fire door installations. However, they are

only effective when closed fully.

There are key components to be aware

of. The door leaf and frame need to be

sized and specified correctly, as does

the hardware (or ironmongery). Each

component is important in achieving

the fire door’s resistance rating and,

while the focus is often on the door

itself, the door closers, hinges and seals

should not be overlooked as they are

an essential part of how the door set

functions.

Door closer compliance

As detailed in the government guidance,

fire doors are required to be fitted with

a self-closing device that will fully and

reliably close the door from any angle.

Any such door-closing device should

comply with BS EN1154 Controlled

Door Closing Devices, or BS EN1155

for electromagnetic closers and fire

door holders, and be CE marked to this

standard. It is also important to look for

CERTIFIRE-approved fire doors and door

closers. Fitting a non-approved product

to a CERTIFIRE door will invalidate the

certification.

Door closers fitted to fire doors must

have enough power to reliably close the

door and keep it closed in the event of

a fire, but not restrict day-to-day access

into and through the building, for any

group of users.

Approved Document M in England and

Wales, Section 4 in Scotland and Part R

in Northern Ireland all require that a ‘door

set’ (which includes all door hardware)

produces an opening force of below 30

Newtons (N) between 0° and 30° and

below 22.5N beyond 30°.

To help calculate this, many

manufacturers will provide torque curve

data that shows the forces produced

throughout the full opening and closing

cycle in Newtons. While this does not

account for the resistance exerted by

other door hardware such as the hinges

and door seals, it can help indicate

whether a given door closer can comply.

Specify the right fire door hinges

Hinges are also an essential component

of a fire door set that must not be

overlooked. Fire doors must have at

least three hinges, fitted with the correct

sized screws and be CE or UKCA

marked to BS EN 1935 to meet the

regulatory requirements for fire door

hinges. It is also essential that they are

appropriate for the size and weight of

the door leaf.

Door closers fitted to fire doors must have enough

power to reliably close the door and keep it closed in

the event of a fire, but not restrict day-to-day access

into and through the building, for any group of users.

There are different types of hinges to

consider:

• Ball-bearing hinges for heavy

or frequently used fire doors:

Commonly used for commercial

buildings, schools, and hospitals,

ball bearing hinges are fitted

54


Specify the intumescent seals to the

required fire-resistance rating of the

door. This could be FD30 for 30 minutes,

or FD60 for 60 minutes, for example.

Plus, they need to be certified and

tested to relevant standards such as

BS 476 Pt 20:22 as well as CERTIFIRE

certified or European standard, EN

1634-1.

SECURITY & FIRE

PROTECTION

with ball bearings between the

interlocking parts of the hinge

to reduce friction. This provides

smoother operation and reduced

wear, making them suitable for

heavy or frequently used doors.

Many ball-bearing hinges are tested

and certified for use in fire doors,

ensuring they can withstand high

temperatures and maintain door

integrity during a fire.

• Lift-off hinges for areas requiring

frequent maintenance access:

Also known as removable pin

hinges, lift-off hinges allow the

door to be easily lifted off its frame

without unscrewing the hinge

plates from the door or frame,

making them easy to remove for

maintenance or replacement.

Suitable for areas such as plant

rooms or service areas, they

can also be useful where large

items need to be moved through

doorways. They must be correctly

specified to ensure they maintain fire

integrity when installed.

• Conductor hinges hide

electrical wiring: Where there is

a requirement to incorporate the

integration of electronic access

control systems, automatic door

closers, and other electrical devices

into fire doors, conductor hinges,

or electric hinges provide a tidy and

secure way to run electrical wiring

through the door, maintaining the

aesthetic and safety of the door

without visible wiring.

Fire-rated conductor hinges also ensure

that the fire resistance of the door is

not compromised by the integration of

electrical components.

Concealed hinges

A concealed door hinge, also known

as a hidden or invisible fire door hinge,

is designed to be invisible when the

door is closed while maintaining the

necessary fire resistance properties.

Where a contemporary or high-end

finish is required, these hinges are

recessed into the door and the frame

for an uninterrupted appearance without

compromising the door’s functionality or

safety standards.

IronmongeryDirect stocks a wide range

of fire-rated hinges including the Altro

Ball Bearing Fire Door hinge, which is

suitable for doors weighing up to 120kg

and sold in packs of three.

Intumescent strips and pads

Another crucial component of fire doors

is intumescent seals or strips. When

exposed to heat, they expand to fill the

gaps around a door to trap fire and

smoke, preventing it from travelling

through a building.

Typically, they take the format of brushes

or flipper seals and are surface-mounted

or concealed. Fitting around the edges

of the door leaf or frame, they need to

be easily accessible for routine checks

without damaging the door or frame.

Some applications require seals in

additional places, such as around glazing

panels.

Many fire doors also require smoke seals

to prevent the passage of smoke, which

can be more dangerous than fire. Often

combined with intumescent seals in one

strip, you must ensure it complies with

relevant standards, such as BS 476-

31.1 for smoke control.

Intumescent pads are also required

for the hinges and locks. These are

important to maintain continuity of

fire seal around the door and, without

them, you could risk invalidating the

fire certificate for the hinges and door.

High-quality adhesives that are suitable

for the door’s material and capable of

withstanding fire conditions should be

specified too.

Of course, there is other essential

ironmongery to consider. Locks and

latches should be suitable for fire doors

and their compliance standards such

as BS EN 12209 as well as the use of

fire-rated handles and panic hardware,

especially in public buildings.

Staying abreast of the latest guidance

can be challenging and expert suppliers

like IronmongeryDirect will support to

ensure all the necessary standards are

satisfied. More importantly, however, that

the fire doors specified will do the job as

intended – to protect lives and property

in the event of a fire.

www.ironmongerydirect.co.uk

55


SECURITY & FIRE

PROTECTION

CLEARING UP THE CONFUSION

When it comes to specifying exterior

building materials and systems on highrise

buildings, are you aware of the

current regulations? Andy Lake,

Pyroguard’s Sales Director UK & IRE,

explores the construction of glazed

balconies.

In the years since the tragic events of the Grenfell disaster in

2017, the spotlight has rightfully fallen on the materials used

on the external face of our country’s high-rise buildings,

with several amendments to the regulations surrounding the

specification of fire-safe materials. With these developments

continuing, it’s no surprise that the regulatory landscape has

the potential to cause confusion, especially when it comes to

specifying the correct safety glass solution for balcony and

balustrade applications.

Amendments to Building Regulations Approved Document B

for fire safety were issued in 2020 and again in 2022 – all with

a view to improving safety and preventing such tragedies from

happening again. Among the revisions was a ban on the use of

combustible materials in and on the external walls of buildings,

included limiting the use of laminated glass on high-rise

balconies or terraces over 18 metres tall.

This was due to a fear that the PVB interlayer used in

laminated glazing balustrade systems could ignite in the event

of a fire, potentially spreading a blaze further over the external

face of a building.

Subsequent revisions to Approved Document B have since

further reduced the height threshold at which the ban on

combustible materials commences, with the new regulations

changing from 18 metres to 11 – a change which has had

further implications throughout construction.

Building Safety Act

To further safeguard high-rise building residents, the Building

Safety Act officially became law in 2022, closely followed

by key reforms to the Act in October 2023. These included

modifications to how high-rise buildings are built, maintained

and made safe, ensuring that residents had complete clarity

It goes without saying that safety

enhancements of high-rise

dwellings are of the utmost

importance. However, these various

regulatory changes have also

presented specifers with challenges

when it comes to meeting aesthetic

requirements.

on fire safety guidance. The reforms also included architects

among the duty holders, who can be held to account as part

of the amended building control regime.

It goes without saying that safety enhancements of highrise

dwellings are of the utmost importance. However, these

various regulatory changes have also presented specifiers with

challenges when it comes to meeting aesthetic requirements.

This is especially true when looking to specify the materials

used on exterior balconies, where glass is often the preferred

choice thanks to its contemporary look and feel.

Laminated glass had become a popular (and safer) substitute

for the use of single-pane monolithic glass. With these new

regulations in place, architects had to turn their attention to

other materials for balcony construction. Alternatives, such as

steel railings, may comply with the new regulations, but they

do not always suit the visual requirements as dictated by the

brief. While single-pane monolithic glass, despite meeting the

fire regulations, presented major safety risks in the high-rise

market, known to occasionally spontaneously break and once

broken offer no failsafe level of safety.

A ‘compliant’ way forward

It is for all these reasons that a new kind of laminated

toughened glass, using a chemically engineered nonflammable

gel interlayer, is the safer choice.

Pyroguard Balustrades was designed to re-establish glass as

an exterior design solution, suitable for those balustrade and

balcony applications now deemed high risk by the regulations.

Drawing on 35 years’ experience in fire safety glass, Pyroguard

developed a new intumescent gel interlayer to make a glass

laminate that is inherently non-combustible, and therefore,

compliant with the changes to Building Regulations Document

B.

Pyroguard Balustrades was recently the product of choice

at London’s Deanston Wharf, a vibrant new residential

development located on the curve of the River Thames,

featuring winter gardens. Formed of an enclosed, glazed and

ventilated balcony, winter gardens are an architectural trend

that has significantly grown in popularity over recent years,

offering a striking external feature and year-round garden

space.

www.pyroguard.eu

56

Achieve higher

levels of fire

protection for

structural steel

INTRODUCING KNAUF FRAMELESS

FIRE ENCASEMENT

Specifically developed to create encasements of column and

beam for structural steel work without the need for a frame.

Less install time, more sellable space and the assurance of a

fully tested system – boost your structural steel fire protection

measures to higher levels of reliability and performance.

Build on us.


SECURITY & FIRE

PROTECTION

SAFE, CONTROLLED

EVACUATION – WITHOUT

COMPROMISING SECURITY

Balancing the safe

evacuation for building

occupants in an

emergency while also

controlling unauthorised

access during normal use

can be a complex design

challenge for building

owners. Here Kate Palk,

Product Manager at

dormakaba, discusses the

issues and outlines the

technology that can help.

If emergency escape routes were

a one-way street, the safety vs.

security conundrum wouldn’t exist.

However, emergency exit doors and

doors on escape routes present

an enormous challenge as they have

contrasting requirements – potentially

saving people’s lives on the one hand,

while securing property on the other.

Doors must be easy to open from inside

in order to escape. At the same time,

they must be secured against misuse;

whether that’s to deter theft, prevent

break-ins, provide security against

terrorism, or safeguard employees – and

the list goes on.

A typical solution to meeting both

requirements is to use emergency

escape locks, fitted with automatic

self-locking mechanisms that allow the

door to be opened easily from the inside

during an emergency situation, but that

lock again as soon as the door closes,

preventing unauthorised access from

outside. However, this approach does

not prevent misuse of the emergency

exit.

Take retail for example. If the opportunity

exists to leave the store via a fire exit,

you can be certain that shoplifters will

be quick to realise this. Insecure escape

routes could also provide access to

otherwise secure areas of a building.

Childcare settings and care homes are

58


further examples of situations where

the emergency exit is a potential way

for vulnerable people to leave without

supervision.

Suffice it to say, balancing safety with

security is a complex issue, but one that

can be resolved with the right equipment

and control. At dormakaba our

experience shows that a robust solution

is an electrically controlled emergency

exit system that can reconcile these

contradictory aspects of escape route

security.

SECURITY & FIRE

PROTECTION

This type of system makes it possible to

protect the door against unauthorised

use and misuse without violating any

building safety regulations. A key benefit

of this approach is the possibility of

also integrating it into other building

systems, and this capability is certainly

something to consider when planning

an escape route system. Connecting the

emergency exit system to a fire detection

device can enable the automatic release

of escape route doors in the event of a

fire. An integrated system may also be

used to trigger alarms and emergency

lighting automatically, allowing for rapid

and efficient evacuation along safe

routes.

Furthermore, a solution that uses a

central management control (CMC) can

allow real time monitoring, alerts and

control of individual access points, a

group of access points or even entire

sections of the building. As such, if there

is a specific issue in one area, this can

be dealt with appropriately. A CMC can

also offer ‘denied exit’ mode. This can

be used to secure a door, gate or barrier,

or a series of access points, or to zone

certain areas, if a situation was such that

evacuating via that route could pose a

safety risk.

When specifying an electronically

managed system, a key feature to

consider is one that offers delayed

egress function. This allows a time

delay (and an alert) between someone

pressing the emergency exit button and

the release of the door. It is particularly

beneficial for building owners looking

to prevent theft by allowing security

personnel to reach the perpetrator

before they can get away. It is also

ideal for settings where there are

vulnerable occupants who would be at

risk if they should find a way out of the

building unsupervised. The time delay

function provides sufficient reaction

time for approved persons to prevent

an unauthorised exit while the sounding

alarm acts as a deterrent to would be

opportunists.

It’s clear that a wide range of features

need to be considered when choosing

an electronically controlled emergency

exit system – central control, real time

alerts, flexibility of control and delayed

egress being just a few – but whichever

solution is right for your building, we

would strongly recommend that it is BS

EN 13637 compliant.

BS EN 13637 is a voluntary standard

as it is not a designated standard in the

UK, nor is it a harmonised standard in

the EU. Therefore, products cannot be

CE or UKCA/UKNI marked to the BS

EN 13637 standard. However, choosing

a BS EN 13637 compliant product is

regarded as best practice and the most

effective way to ensure occupant safety

and robust security to provide ultimate

peace of mind for those responsible for

the building.

Our own SafeRoute system provides

a full suite of features and has been

designed for easy installation and

commissioning, be it on new installations

or retrofitting to existing building

systems. It offers a range of advanced

controls suitable for large buildings

with high footfall, but is also suitable for

simple access control requirements,

such as a single door system which can

function quickly and safely in case of

emergency and protect against misuse

on a day-to-day basis.

The system is supplied on a

subscription-free licencing model that

allows for easy upgrade, expansion or

adaptation if requirements change.

www.dormakaba.co.uk/

saferoutesystems

59


NEW PRODUCTS

A.PROCTOR GROUP COLLABORATES WITH PARK HOME MANUFACTURER TO

DELIVER FIRE SAFETY

The introduction of the Building Safety Act 2022 focused on

higher-risk residential buildings. But a culture of taking fire

safety seriously applies to buildings of all types – and park

homes are no exception.

For Lissett Homes, a manufacturer of premium park

homes and lodges, one customer’s request to use a different

style of cladding had ramifications beyond aesthetic

appearance. It required their design team to review all the

product specifications and detailing to ensure the necessary

performance was achieved.

“The Caravan Act requires a six-metre gap between

buildings,” said Chris Close, Design Director at Lissett

Homes. “It can be possible to build closer than that, but it

depends on the fire classification of the products used in the

build-up.”

For Lissett Homes, a significant challenge is not having

control over how buildings are sited once they leave the

production facility. For the two ‘Bainland’ homes under

construction, they could make no assumptions about how

the buildings would ultimately be positioned.

As Chris explained: “We suspect the customer will site

these lodges six metres apart, but we can’t be sure. Also,

one large group might rent both buildings at the same time,

so the customer might install a timber deck – rather than a

paved surface – bridging between the two. That creates an

additional fire risk, so we had to make sure the specification

was capable of dealing with any eventuality.”

The typical Lissett Homes specification features A.Proctor

Group’s Proctorwrap Reflect behind the timber cladding.

However, that is based on the external cladding achieving a

classification of Class 3 when tested to BS 476-7:1997 Fire

tests on building materials and structures. Method of test to

determine the classification of the surface spread of flame of

products.

For the new ‘Bainland’ homes, the customer requested a

type of vertical cladding, treated with linseed oil, which only

achieves Class 4 when tested to the same standard.

“We looked at incorporating a fire-rated vapour

permeable membrane behind the cladding. I’ve worked

with A.Proctor Group for seven or eight years,” said Chris,

“so they were our first port of call and together we found the

right solution.”

A.Proctor Group recommended Fireshield, a vapour

permeable membrane offering Class B-s1,d0 reaction to fire

when classified in accordance with BS EN 13501-1:2002

Fire classification of construction products and building

elements. Classification using test data from reaction to fire

tests.

U-value calculations and condensation risk analyses were

then carried out to show the wall build-up offered the same

thermal and moisture management performance.

Swapping from typical horizontal cladding to a vertical

cladding might sound like a relatively simple aesthetic

change. For Lissett Homes, working with vertical cladding

for the first time, it also meant reworking a host of details,

such as around window openings and at soffits.

That reworking included making sure Fireshield was

securely fixed so as to not to create a hidden fire risk,

and here A.Proctor Group were again able to support with

compatible tapes and detailing advice.

proctorgroup.com

WILO LAUNCHES BUDGET-FRIENDLY HEATING CIRCULATION PUMP

Wilo UK has announced the addition

of an entry-level central heating

circulation pump to its PICO range.

The launch of the Atmos PICO

coincides with homeowners, landlords

and social housing maintenance

teams starting to gear up for another

busy heating season, where pump

breakdowns are becoming increasingly

common.

The Atmos PICO uses energyefficient

EC motor technology to work

based on demand, unlike older fixed

speed pumps that run continuously.

This helps to combat the challenge

of older, inefficient pumps costing

customers more money through higher

energy use.

It also has a compact design,

making installation and commissioning

in an average-sized family home a

simple task.

An easy-to-use interface with three

set speeds and an option to select

variable differential pressure allows the

pump to modulate to the requirements

of the system, further ensuring

efficiency and energy savings.

The pump also benefits from autoventing

and auto-deblocking and

can be forced to vent manually by

powering the unit off and then back on.

The Atmos PICO is stocked

exclusively by PHG (Plumbing Heating

Group) merchants as part of its Instinct

Range.

wilo.com

60

UNITING THE INDUSTRY FOR A CLEAR VISION OF TOMORROW

THE ANNUAL

CONFERENCE FOR

GLAZING INDUSTRY

PROFESSIONALS

Addresses important fenestration issues with

discussions, insights, trends, debates and

expert opinions

EDGBASTON STADIUM

BIRMINGHAM

THURSDAY

17 TH OCTOBER

2024

Brings together business owners and leaders to

connect, share experiences and gain new ideas

Delegates leave better informed, inspired and

ready to seize opportunities aheadnch and

Refreshments

SPONSORS/PARTNERS

Headline Sponsor

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GET INVOLVED

For more information on sponsorship and exhibiting

please call Sarah Knight on 07860 715086 or

email: sarah.knight@markallengroup.com


NEW PRODUCTS

COMBINE WASTE WATER HEAT RECOVERY AND

ELECTRIC SHOWERS

Mira Showers says its new Advance Heatloop is the first

electric shower to be designed to work with Recoup waste

water heat recovery systems for showers (WWHRS).

The installation of the Mira Showers’ Advance Heatloop,

in conjunction with a WWHRS unit, will enable housing

authorities to provide tenants with an enhanced showering

experience as well as sustainability and energy efficiency.

When installed in conjunction with a Recoup Pipe Hex

system, Mira says average annual savings of up to 40% can

be achieved – saving around £135 per year.

While conventional electric showers cannot adjust

to changes in elevated incoming water conditions, the

Mira Advance Heatloop uses intelligent monitoring to

automatically adjust the power based on the incoming

conditions. Safely recycling the energy from WWHRS, the

Advance Heatloop adapts to fluctuations in temperature

and flow, so users enjoy consistent performance and

temperatures with no sudden cold or scalding blasts.

Simple to install even in older, hard-to-treat housing,

the Advance Heatloop can be included as part of energy

efficiency upgrades and modular installation solutions.

www.mirashowers.co.uk/mira-advance-heatloop

NEW PODCAST FROM A. PROCTOR GROUP

TALKS ALL THINGS CONSTRUCTION

The A. Proctor Group is moving into the world of

podcasting with the launch of ‘The Proctor Podcast’.

Hosted by Managing Director Keira Proctor and

promising to discuss all things construction, episodes

are available on all the usual podcasting platforms.

Each one features a blend of information, inspiration and

entertainment, keeping listeners abreast of the latest

construction industry trends, innovations and insights.

Having already reached new audiences through

webinars, online round table events and a successful

YouTube channel, the company is now exploring the

possibilities of the audio format.

“Podcast listening is a very personal experience, with

people choosing when, where and how they listen,” said

Keira Proctor. “One of my aims with The Proctor Podcast

is to help people get to know the A. Proctor Group better,

with personal insights from our employees. We want to

explore the world of construction with our listeners, building

knowledge and challenging opinion.”

The first episode of The Proctor Podcast delves into

the world of modular construction with Will Jones, Head

of Business Development, and Adam Salt, Business &

Development Manager).

www.proctorgroup.com

NEW SOLUTIONS FOR A GREENER UK

Panasonic Heating & Cooling Solutions wowed the crowd

at InstallerSHOW 2024 with its latest innovations, new

partnerships, and significant investments in UK training

centres. With 19% of the UK’s carbon footprint produced

from energy used in heating, using gas boilers, Panasonic

is leading the way in decarbonising existing building stocks

with its renewable solutions.

Panasonic unveiled the new Aquarea M Series range of

air source heat pumps with TCAP technology, developed to

meet the decarbonisation challenge. The new range uses

R290 refrigerant which has a low GWP of only 3. The range

comes with capacities of 9, 12, 16, 20, 25 and 30kW, with

the option of 300kW in cascade configuration. This makes it

suitable for domestic homes, multifamily or light commercial

buildings.

The Aquarea M Series range with T-CAP technology

can operate in outdoor temperatures as low as -15°C and

maintain capacity without a backup heater. One T-CAP unit

can provide the same capacity at low temperatures as two

other units without T-CAP technology, reducing the cost of

materials and installation, and saving space.

www.aircon.panasonic.eu

62


RINNAI EXPANDS COST-EFFECTIVE CONTINUOUS

FLOW HOT WATER HEATERS

Rinnai’s KCM series of continuous flow hot water heaters is

designed to increase customer savings in energy, capital,

and carbon footprint with the inclusion of internally refined

technological advancements.

The KCM unit has micro-processors to ensure hot water

is delivered at the exact pre-set temperature. The advanced

micro-processors will measure incoming water temperatures

and modulate gas input. This guarantees the system uses

only the required amount of energy to increase water

temperature while supplying limitless volumes of clean hot

water. The micro-processor enables the customer to pre-set

water temperatures and minimise the risk of Legionella and

eliminate scalding issues.

The Rinnai KCM series has a compact design, measuring

670x 470x 257mm to reduce the requirement for installation

wall and floor space. System set up, monitoring and error

codes are all easily accessible via inbuilt status monitors

located at the front of the panel.

Operational features and benefits include a light weight

of 26kg and a temperature range between 50°C and 60°C.

The hot water delivery capacity is 15.4 ltr/min raised 33°C,

with a temperature accuracy of -1/+1°C from the appliance

set point. There is a maximum flue run of 13m (less 2m per

90° bend and 1m per 45° bend). The unit’s maximum gas

consumption is 38.1kW of natural gas, and 38.1kW for LPG.

The KCM series has a gross efficiency of 93% and a net

efficiency of 103%.

www.rinnai-uk.co.uk

NEW PRODUCTS

NEW BROCHURE PROVIDES TIMBER GUIDANCE

SR Timber has created a new brochure for 2024. The

publication, which has more than doubled in size to 28

pages, details the complete range of timber products

offered by the company and serves as a handy reference

guide for customers seeking top-quality timber solutions.

The SR Timber team has decades of experience in

producing and supplying many different timber construction

products. These include the trademarked Premium Gold

roofing batten, as well as carcassing timber, cedar shingles

and ridge, Orientated Strand Board (OSB), chipboard

flooring, plywood, and scaffolding boards.

The brochure provides a detailed overview of the journey

that their timber takes from the tree to the yard, all under the

control of SR Timber. It includes key tips for recognising BS

batten and a checklist for buying and using preservativetreated

wood. The brochure also references the timber

materials needed for a pitched roof, a simple key of timber

terminology, and an easy-to-use conversion calculator for

purchasing timber products.

www.sr-timber.co.uk

EXPLORE UPONOR SOLUTIONS THROUGH NEW

VIRTUAL SHOWROOM

GF Building Flow Solutions has launched the Uponor Virtual

Showroom. This offers a dynamic and comprehensive view

of the Uponor range, with an interactive system that is

easy to use and helps users to learn more about specific

features and benefits at their own pace.

For those planning or working on plumbing, heating

or cooling projects, the virtual showroom allows users

to discover practical scenarios and applications that

demonstrate the use of Uponor solutions, gain a deeper

understanding of product features and benefits and access

a range of resources, including videos, brochures, and case

studies.

The Virtual Showroom has a user-friendly interface that

can be accessed via any device with a web browser. It

includes seven distinct sections, each dedicated to a

different application, with interactive points that provide

additional information on the Uponor range of products.

A dual viewing option allows users to view products

and systems from two different perspectives: either

interior design or engineering. This feature provides a

more complete understanding of how the Uponor range of

solutions function and integrate into various environments,

including real-world scenarios and projects.

www.uponor.com/showroom

63


CASE STUDIES

ENSURING PASSENGER SAFETY AT SCHIPHOL AIRPORT

With thousands of people passing through international

airports every day, ensuring their safety with passive

fire protection products like fire safety glass is essential.

During the expansion and upgrade of Schiphol Airport’s

train station, Pyroguard’s toughened fire safety glass was

chosen to combine the need for passenger safety with the

creation of a more light and open space.

Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport railway station is the fifth

largest on the Dutch network, with daily footfall expected to

increase from 109,000 to 130,000 over the next 10 years.

To support this increased demand, the multi-million-pound

Multimodal Hub Schiphol project aims to redevelop the

station and public transport facilities.

Designed to increase capacity, improve passenger flow

and create more space, both on the platforms and in the

Plaza above, the station upgrade included the renovation of

its lifts, elevators and stairs, with the number of escalators

set to be doubled.

Commissioned by BAM Infra Netherlands (Civic Region),

in collaboration with Arcadis (from ProRail), Glasdesign

was contracted to provide Schiphol Plaza with a new glass

entrance to the underground station. As well as helping to

create a brighter, open and more contemporary space when

entering the station platforms, the glazed partitions also

featured Pyroguard Protect fire safety glass to ensure the

future safety and protection of rail passengers.

Sander Pieters, CEO from Glasdesign, said: “We opted

for Pyroguard Protect EI60/32-2 SWS, as this was the

© David Rozemeyer

most suitable solution in terms of size, thickness and fire

performance. Working with Pyroguard has been a smooth

process from start to finish; their excellent technical support

and great communication throughout were key to the

project’s success.”

Pyroguard Protect is a range of toughened fire safety

glass that provides integrity and heat insulation for 30 to

180 minutes (EI classification). As well as exceptional fire

performance, Pyroguard Protect also delivers a 1B1 impact

rating, superior acoustic properties and UV stability.

www.pyroguard.eu

PASSIVHAUS SOCIAL HOMES BENEFIT FROM BAXI HEAT PUMP SERVICE

A development of 16 social homes designed and built to

achieve Passivhaus standard has been constructed in

Dalbeattie, Dumfries & Galloway, with the support of Baxi

and its air source heat pump solutions and services.

Heating contractor James Frew required an air source

heat pump solution that would provide sustainable heat to

the properties. There were stringent design requirements to

make the homes efficient and low carbon, so James Frew

partnered with Baxi to benefit from its full range of support

services, training and efficient products.

Designed by architect Robert Potter and Partners and

built by main contractor Ashleigh (Scotland), the two and

three-bedroom properties meet the highest standards of

energy efficiency – part of Loreburn Housing Association’s

commitment to delivering new homes fit for the future.

Using the Passivhaus model, the entire home had to

be designed around achieving the best energy efficiency

using a heat pump. This involved specifying not only the

insulation and windows to meet the standard, but also the

correctly sized heat pump for each home. Space was also

a consideration. The design needed to guarantee there was

ample room for the internal and external elements of the

heat pump solution, without compromising on comfort for

tenants. Baxi’s air source heat pumps, compatible cylinders

and uSense controls were specified to provide the heating

and hot water for each of the 16 homes through three

radiators.

As part of Baxi’s heat pump service, the engineers

had access to specialist training to become familiar

with the solution and be confident in installing it. Baxi’s

Commissioning Engineers were on hand to oversee the

commissioning of each of the heat pumps.

www.baxi.co.uk

64

Protection Delivered.

With a complete building envelope engineered to perform and made to last,

Don & Low consistently delivers success in the construction industry.

Made in the UK and certified by renowned third-party organisations while

meeting the evolving demands of diverse structures and projects across the

nation, Don & Low’s construction membranes set the benchmark.

From Forfar, with love.

The Don & Low

Complete Building Envelope

donlow.co.uk


CASE STUDIES

SOUTHAMPTON CARE HOME ROOF FIRE PROTECTED USING A1 RATED CEMGOLD

IPP’s A1-rated high-density cement board, Cemgold, has

been used as part of the flat roof build-up on a new care

home complex in Southampton.

Adanac Park is being built for Hamberley Developments

by Highwood Construction, with North Yorkshire-based

Harris Irwin Architects tailoring the design to meet the needs

of those with dementia or different neurological conditions.

The 95,000ft 2 facility comprises two U-shaped buildings

either side of a shared service block, while the residential

wing has 80 high-spec en-suite bedrooms.

Project Manager for Highwood Construction, Paul Davies,

said: “The architects specified a Euro Class A2 fireproof

board for the perimeters and our design coordinator

confirmed with Building Control they would be happy with

18mm Cemgold.”

The 12.5mm version of IPP Cemgold was also used to

fireproof the rear of Memory Boxes built into the corridor

walls of each bedroom.

www.magply.co.uk

STO REVITALISES OFFICE BUILDING WITH SPECIALIST RENDERING

Sto, in partnership with applicators Chiltern Contracts,

has delivered a rendering project on a refurbished multipurpose

building in central London.

Located in Oxford Circus, Henry Wood House was

constructed in the 1960s and comprises a 16-storey tower

with two five-storey interconnecting wings. The building

incorporates 69,000sq ft of offices, 10,800sq ft of retail and

a hotel on the upper seven floors.

The external renovation required the existing façade to

be refurbished including new rendering. Sto designed a

system that would repair the damaged façade while meeting

the specific design brief. A modern, linear render finish was

needed to bring texture to the building render and provide a

durable surface.

Bogdan Stefan, Project Manager for Chiltern Contracts’

façades division, said: “The linear appearance, which was

to be applied across thousands of metres, was particularly

challenging and hadn’t been replicated anywhere else in the

UK. Sto provided specialist training for our applicators so

we could create extensive mock-ups for the client’s approval

before commencing the work.”

To create the StoSignature linear appearance, Stolit MP

render was applied and, using a special V-shaped trowel,

the applicators carefully pulled the trowel in one direction

across the render and at a specific angle to create the exact

finish required.

www.sto.co.uk

FULL ARCH LINTELS MARCH INTO PLACE AT MILITARY BARRACKS

Full arch lintels from Keystone Lintels have ensured the

structural integrity and sensitive repurposing of Ballina’s

18 th century military barracks.

The €5.5m Ballina Innovation Quarter project has seen

the site restored and converted into 20 business. The

17,200sq ft building is a protected structure dating back

to circa 1740, so the team needed to integrate modern

systems while preserving the integrity of the original design

and maintaining conservation principles.

The derelict barracks required complete restoration,

including the exterior fabric comprising a mix of rubble

stone and brickwork. As part of the restoration of the

front elevations of Buildings A and B, two heavy duty

full arch lintels were specified with a 2,400mm span and

incorporating both a 215mm inner and outer leaf.

Keystone’s technical team worked closely with LPB

Building Services and developed a one-piece lintel design

solution, taking into consideration loading conditions and

the required rendered detailing above window openings.

Fabricated off-site, Keystone’s technical team ensured each

lintel was manufactured to the size, shape and aesthetic

requirements within the project build schedule.

www.keystonelintels.com

66

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