February 2025

FEBRUARY 2025

A PROCTOR GROUP LTD PRODUCTION

A1

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LIGHTWEIGHT

T

SCORE

TO FIRE & ROBUST & SNAP

>>> SECTOR PRIORITIES • STAYING FIT • BLUE ROOFS • RAINSCREEN SYSTEMS + MUCH MORE! >>>

Bringing it together.

APPLICATION

TECHNOLOGY

>Design

>Solve

>Test

>Train

EJOT APPLITEC

MORE THAN FASTENER ENGINEERING

www.ejot.co.uk

>

EJOT APPLITEC is the UK’s foremost technology centre, equipped to support the development

and testing of modern fastening systems that span all our market sectors; from safety-critical

anchoring to high performance automotive engineering. More than that, our laboratory goes

beyond R&D to bring genuine value to OEM partnerships, maintain quality systems, and deliver

responsible training designed to support the best practice process.

Editor’s Intro

MATT DOWNS

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

MATTDOWNS@MEDIA-NOW.CO.UK

07963 330774

A PROCTOR GROUP LTD PRODUCTION

WWW.TOTAL-CONTRACTOR.CO.UK

Speak to most in construction about the government’s ambitious

housebuilding targets – now set at 370,000 homes annually – and

the majority will question the feasibility of achieving this number.

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LIGHTWEIGHT

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TO FIRE & ROBUST & SNAP

And whilst challenges around planning and red tape sit high amongst

the barriers to meeting this annual target, it’s the lack of skilled workers

and new entrants across all areas of construction that most people I

speak to are concerned about.

And there’s reason to be concerned if the figures quoted in MCRMA

Director Carlton Jones’ article in this issue are anything to go by. The

data, according to CITB’s labour market intelligence report published in

May 2024, shows 50,300 extra workers per year are required to meet

expected levels of work over the next five years – and that’s up from

45,000 in 2023. And whilst apprenticeships are a viable and rewarding

way to attract new entrants, Carlton explains that figures from BCIS

show apprenticeships linked to construction are actually in decline –

dropping from 9,876 in 2018/19 to just 7,653 in 2023/24!

As Carlton explains: “Construction, of course, is a very broad sector, so

some trades will be facing more challenges than others. But for the

building envelope sector, we know from member feedback that skills

shortages are a major concern.” You can read his full article on page 44,

which includes comment from MCRMA member companies Kalzip and

SPV Special Projects, who explain how they’re successfully addressing

their labour challenges through apprenticeships.

Elsewhere in this issue, skills is one of NFRC’s key policy focuses for the

year ahead, as the association looks to tackle immediate challenges

and create long-term opportunities for investment in the sector. As

James Talman, NFRC Group CEO, explains in his article on page 32,

other areas of focus for the association include retentions and late

payments, areas that, like the skills crisis, don’t appear to have a ‘quick

fix’ solution, and continue to heap pressure on contractors and the

supply chain.

Cover courtesy of A. Proctor Group.

Read more about the Proctor A 1 Cement Board on page 20.

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Supported by:

Testing, Testing: Brian Mack of EJOT UK

discusses the processes in place to ensure EJOT UK’s

fasteners perform as they should and meet he

demands of modern projects.

Let’s hope 2025 is the year where we begin to see real progress in

addressing these challenges, so companies can fully focus on what they

do best.

Enjoy the issue!

Matt

40

Contents

4 KEY FEATURES

18

18 FIT FOR WORK

Physiotherapist Callum Hewitt discusses some

of the common problems roofers suffer from

and endure throughout their careers, and

offers advice on how to avoid them

22 PITCH PERFECT

The roof pitch plays a crucial role in the roof

specification and installation process. With

this in mind, Kevin Taylor of Marley highlights

how to correctly calculate and obtain this

information

44 FUTURE PLANS

Carlton Jones of MCRMA discusses the current

state of the UK construction industry’s skills

challenges, and highlights how two members

are taking control of their company’s future by

providing apprenticeships

FURTHER READING

24 BLUE BENEFITS

Justin Pitman highlights the latest developments in blue

roof systems which can incorporate built-in falls

26 GROWTH PLANS

Following the company’s re-brand, Darren Jones of

Jones Weatherproofing discusses his plans for the future

35 PRODUCT FOCUS: UNDERLAYS

As unpredictable weather is the new norm, Don & Low say

the choice of roofing materials is even more crucial

40 FASTENER DETAILS

Brian Mack of EJOT UK looks at the testing which his team

undertake to produce fasteners that can be relied on

44

42 KEEPING CLADDING SIMPLE

Derek McDougal of MSP Facades explains how ease of

installation can work alongside fire safety and aesthetics

54 COMMENT: PLANNING REFORM

As we focus on building new homes, the existing housing

stock can’t be overlooked, says Derek Horrocks of SBS

58 TAB OUT, POWER IN

Jonathan Peters of HiKOKI says tabless batteries are

transforming the performance of cordless power tools

4 TC FEBRUARY 2025

REGULARS

28 PROCTOR PROMOTES...

Good Practice: This month the team at

A. Proctor Group discuss challenges and

solutions for ventilating complex roof shapes

32 NFRC ROOFING TALK

James Talman highlights the association’s new

policy objectives, which look to tackle

immediate challenges and create sustainable,

long-term opportunities for investment into the

roofing and cladding sectors

52 KNAUF INSULATION

TECH TALK

In his latest column, Bradley Hirst provides his

key reasons why you should use mineral wool

to insulate timber frame walls

SECTIONS:

TOTAL

ROOFING

22

TOTAL

CLADDING

40

INDUSTRY NEWS

06 CALLS TO CURB RE-SELLERS

As tool theft continues grow, there are calls for second-hand tool

re-sellers to provide proof of purchase

14 FUTURE HOMES ‘CONFUSION’

A survey from Jewson shows some worrying stats on how

prepared tradespeople are for the Future Homes Standard

TOTAL

INSULATION

52

10

VEHICLES, TOOLS

& WORKWEAR

NFRC Scotland has extended its in-school

demonstration and education programme

for 2025.

58

FEBRUARY 2025 TC 5

Industry News

RESTRICTIONS ON

SECOND-HAND TOOL

SALES NEEDED

Research conducted by Direct Line business

insurance shows over two thirds of

tradespeople (67 per cent) favour a ban on

the sale of second-hand tools, unless the

seller can provide proof of ownership.

The insight comes as seven in ten (70 per

cent) tradespeople report having had tools

stolen within the past two years, with 65 per

cent saying tool theft is on the rise.

The insurance provider says thieves frequently

resell stolen tools on social media, online

marketplaces, and car boot sales, and in the

last year alone, almost half (47 per cent) of

tradespeople report having been approached

by, or witnessed, someone selling tools they

believed were stolen. Of these, almost two

thirds (56 per cent) reported the suspicious

tools to the marketplace, trade authority, or

police, while 92 per cent refused to purchase

them.

When it comes to the general public, further

research from Direct Line business insurance

found that three quarters (75 per cent) of

people would not feel confident identifying

stolen tools being resold, indicating how the

requirement to provide proof of ownership

when selling second-hand tools could help

stifle the market for stolen tools.

Mark Summerville, SME Product Manager at

Direct Line business insurance, commented:

“While there is no silver bullet to stop tool

theft, tighter rules around providing proof of

purchase when selling second-hand tools

could help make it harder for criminals to

resell goods. It’s also important that

tradespeople have adequate insurance in

place to help them get back up and running,

should their tools be stolen and to take

precautions to protect their tools where

possible.” www.directlineforbusiness.co.uk

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

"THIS PUBLICATION MUSTN’T SIT ON THE

SHELF, IT MUST BE USED"

NFRC recently held a launch event for 'The

Design and Installation Guide for Roof Tiling',

a comprehensive new resource tool for the

pitched roofing sector.

The guide has been written and released in

partnership between the RTA (Roof Tile

Association) and NFRC (National Federation of

Roofing Contractors) to provide the most

comprehensive and up-to-date guidance for

roof tiling available, covering all the information

that budding tilers, and those with experience,

need to know when they’re on the job.

The authors say it is designed to support

learning at every stage, from diplomas and

apprenticeships, to advanced certifications and

on-the-job challenges, it combines decades of

expertise from over 15 industry professionals,

making it an invaluable tool for both practical

and theoretical applications.

Addressing the packed room at the launch,

which included individuals from NFRC and RTA

member companies involved in producing the

guide, Bob Richardson, Head of Technical and

Training at NFRC, explained: “What we’ve done

is written a book for the future in roofing – you

look at all the work that we’re doing at this

moment in time with competency and the

Government following the Grenfell disaster;

having a reference guide that’s agreed by

industry – written by industry for industry – is

the best way of doing it, it’s absolutely huge.”

NFRC Group CEO James Talman echoed this

sentiment and commended those involved in

producing the Guide. He explained that it’s key

for those specifying and installing roof tiling

products and systems to make use of the guide:

“This publication mustn’t sit on the shelf, it

must be used and we must be able to leverage

that content to reflect different generations of

how we get the message over.”

The launch event also saw Paul John Lythgoe,

Chair of the RTA from 2021-24, who was

integral in collating and bringing all the

information together for the first edition,

awarded with an NFRC Services to Industry

Award. Discussing the guide, Paul commented:

“I hope it is successful, I hope it does get into

colleges, it is a great book; it’s easy to read –

it’s good to progress somebody to the height of

excellence in roofing, I’m proud of it!”

• You can purchase your copy of the guide from

www.routledge.com, with discounts available

for RTA and NFRC members.

Pictured above l-r: Bob Richardson, NFRC; Alex Patrick-Smith, Executive Chairman of Dreadnought Tiles and Ketley Brick; James

Talman, Group CEO of NFRC, and Paul John Lythgoe, CEO of RTA 2021-24 and recipient of NFRC’s Services to Industry Award.

6 TC FEBRUARY 2025

WestWood Liquid Technologies Limited

31 Morris Road, Nuffi eld Industrial Estate,

Poole, Dorset BH17 0GG

Phone: +44 800 808 5480

Liquid Applied Waterproofi ng Systems

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

Industry News


MOY MAKES MOVES FOR THE FUTURE

SMALL-SCALE

RENEWABLES RECORD

MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme)

has announced that 2024 was a recordbreaking

year for small-scale renewables.

According to data from the MCS Data

Dashboard, there were more than 260,000

certified installations in UK homes and small

businesses last year, including heat pumps,

solar and battery storage. This is a 7% increase

compared to 2023, which itself was a record

year for installations.

The record-breaking numbers from last year

have also taken the total number of certified

installations past the 2 million mark, highlighting

the nation’s growing commitment to renewable

technologies for heating and powering homes

and businesses.

Solar PV continues to lead the way as the most

popular renewable technology with over 180,000

certified installations recorded last year, while

battery storage saw record-breaking numbers

with nearly 20,000 certified installations.

Ian Rippin, CEO at MCS, commented: “It’s

fantastic to see the record-breaking uptake of

renewable energy technologies across the UK.

More consumers are making the switch to

home-grown energy, placing their trust in MCS

certified contractors to give them confidence in

their renewable installations. As the numbers

rise and more people benefit from home-grown

energy, it’s crucial that standards are

maintained in order to continue the momentum.

This is where MCS product and installation

standards have a key role to play in building

confidence as the UK transitions to net zero.”

MOY, a leading supplier of high-performance

waterproofing systems, has relocated its

group head office to a new location in Dublin

city centre.

The iconic business hub, Columbia Mills, located

on Sir John Rogerson’s Quay, is a landmark

building in Dublin’s vibrant South Docklands.

Overlooking the River Liffey, it offers unparalleled

access to the city centre and dockland area, a

hub for global tech giants like Google, Facebook,

Airbnb, and Indeed.

Moving away from its Tallaght and Paisley offices,

MOY says this new base will provide enhanced

capacity to accommodate its customers and

suppliers, while supporting the company’s

growing team and operational requirements.

Alongside the move, MOY has transitioned its

warehousing operations in Ireland and the UK to a

leading third-party logistics (3PL) provider. MOY

says this strategic shift will streamline

operations; offering scalable, flexible, and

efficient solutions tailored to meet market

demands, explaining these new changes are

“futureproofing business infrastructure.”

Cathal Quinn, MOY Group Managing Director,

explained: “Relocating to Dublin city centre marks

a significant milestone in MOY’s journey of growth

and innovation. It will empower our team with the

tools and environment needed to exceed

expectations and meet the demands of a dynamic

industry. By integrating 3PL logistics, we are

positioning MOY for long-term success and

scalability in both established and emerging

markets.”

Since the MOY management buyout in 2021, the

company says it has experienced rapid growth

across Ireland, the UK, and Europe. The new

move also coincides with the launch of its new

website, designed to enhance user experience and

support continued business growth with

streamlined access to guidance, information and

product support.

Cathal continued: “This success has placed

increasing demands on the business structure

and operations, and in response, MOY is taking

decisive steps to futureproof its infrastructure and

ensure continued exemplary service for its

customers and partners. The planned outcome of

this evolution for our market is to offer

unparalleled service and customer experience to

our authorised contractors and clients. We can

only see this as a positive move for MOY.”

www.moy.group

Rich in history, Columbia Mills is a listed and iconic structure, deeply rooted in the heritage of Dublin’s

old docklands. Once a key part of the city’s industrial past, it has also served as a backdrop for music

venues and film sets, blending historical charm with contemporary relevance.

8 TC FEBRUARY 2025

Industry News

QUALITY PROCESS

SHOWCASED IN VIDEO

SR Timber has invested in a new

corporate video summarising, in just 4

minutes, the steps involved in producing

its quality timber products for the

construction market.

NFRC SCOTLAND EXPANDS SCHOOL

SKILLS DEMONSTRATIONS PROGRAMME

Following on from the continued success of

in-school skills demonstrations in 2024, NFRC

(National Federation of Roofing Contractors)

Scotland has expanded its education

programme in 2025.

The company says its commitment to

excellence starts with the foundation of a

strong and experienced sole sawmill partner in

Latvia; a crucial pillar in ensuring consistency

in the quality of all its timber products,

especially its flagship offering, the

trademarked PREMIUM GOLD batten.

This new video showcases the detailed

production process, from when a log is felled

to the final product. SR Timber says its

PREMIUM GOLD graded roofing batten meets

all the requirements of British Standards in

quality, and the product is independently 3rd

party audited and certified. Importantly, the

batten is not only graded in its board form,

each piece is also graded in a second

process. SR Timber explains that, initially, all

boards are kiln-dried, ensuring correct

moisture content and automated checks are

then made against detailed characteristics

and possible defects. These include possible

decay or insect attack, correct dimensions,

the slope of grain – for strength, and knot

sizing forecast for the finished product.

SR Timber says the second grading process

follows BS 5534 requirements, grading the

final product and each piece of roofing

batten. The manufacturer explains that these

final checks are made at commercial speed,

covering the size of knots, wane, resin

pockets, and distortion, and ensure that each

produced piece conforms to BS 5534.

The video summarises the process from

forest to delivery. View the full video here:

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

A spokesperson for NFRC said the Association

has been encouraged to see so many young

individuals show a keen interest in learning

roofing skills, like slate cutting, dressing, and

laying slates on roofing rigs.

The spokesperson explained that collaborating

with other trades to provide a range of activities

at skills demonstrations gives students a real

taste for the various disciplines open to them

within construction, and NFRC is dedicated to

working across the sector to solve the skills crisis

which impacts all industries.

The recent introduction of a single-ply roofing

activity into school demonstrations has already

been well received according to the

spokesperson, and with the essential help of

NFRC Members Compass Roofing Ltd, Prime Roof

Solutions, Taylor Roofing, BriggsAmasco, Pinnacle

Roofing Specialists, Sika, Bauder, and Kerr

Roofing & Building (Ayr), the association says it

has offered hands-on experiences that give

students a practical and genuine taste of what

careers in construction look like.

Scott Miller, NFRC Board Member, NFRC Scotland

Regional Chairman and Managing Director at

Compass Roofing Ltd, explained: “Our efforts to

promote the diverse careers in construction have

continued to grow from strength to strength.

“We are partnering with local authorities to create

a clear construction pathway for students

interested in pursuing careers with great pay and

opportunities.

“2025 promises to be another hugely busy year

for the NFRC in Scotland with numerous highprofile

events planned, and we thank everyone

Royal Highland Show 2024 attendees of all ages get stuck

into the slate cutting skills demonstration.

who supports these events, especially the

Supplier Members who sponsor the events.

“We have continued to strengthen our

relationships with key decision-makers at the

Scottish Parliament and local authorities, and are

excited to see a host of new programmes start to

bear fruit.”

The following events are organised for 2025, with

many more in the pipeline:

• In February, the skills demonstration

programme is expanding to South Ayrshire with

the first event happening at Prestwick Academy.

• NFRC will deliver a skills demonstration at The

Scottish National Apprenticeship show at SEC

Glasgow on 4 and 5 March.

• NFRC will host a skills demonstration on the

lawns of Scottish Parliament on 14 and 15 May.

• A reception, titled “A Blueprint for Scotland’s

Emerging Construction Talent” will be held at

Scottish Parliament on 3 June.

• NFRC will have a training rig set up at the

Royal Highland Show, 19 to 22 June, giving people

the chance to dress a slate and fix it to a rig.

Young people will be able to discuss roofing

career opportunities while home and estate

owners will get free advice on how to repair and

maintain their roofs.

If you would like to get involved in NFRC Scotland events,

please contact the Scotland Regional Manager, John

McKinney: johnmckinney@nfrc.co.uk

10 TC FEBRUARY 2025

DATA POINTS TO 20% UPLIFT IN

CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS IN 2024

Despite significant economic turbulence, 2024

emerged as a pivotal year for construction,

driven by significant gains in major projectstarts

and steady growth in underlying activity,

according to Glenigan’s January 2025 edition of

its Construction Review.

Overall, work commencing on-site averaged

£10,372 million per month, up 20% from 2023.

Major projects (£100 million or more) saw an

extraordinary 58% increase, underscoring renewed

confidence in large-scale developments. Meanwhile,

underlying project-starts (£100 million or less)

edged up by 1%.

Underlying Hotel and Leisure construction starts

soared by 30%, while underlying education projects

rose 7%. Civil engineering also flourished, with

infrastructure (+17%) and utilities (+14%)

leading the charge.

The South East emerged as the UK’s growth leader

with a 17% increase in underlying project-starts.

Northern Ireland (+23%) and the South West

(+13%) also outperformed, while London faced

challenges with a 15% decline.

However, challenges tempered any optimism. For

example, averaging £9,595 million per month,

overall main contract awards dipped 4% year-onyear,

reflecting caution among developers.

Underlying awards decreased by 5%, while major

projects also saw a 4% drop compared to 2023.

Detailed planning approvals struggled, falling 19%

overall, with major projects hit hardest at a 34%

decline. Underlying approvals dropped by 6%.

Residential construction starts experienced a

challenging year, finishing 4% lower than 2023

levels.

Private housing starts were down 9% compared to

2023, while social housing declined 10%,

highlighting ongoing affordability and funding

challenges.

“While 2024 brought challenges, the construction

sector demonstrated remarkable resilience,

supported by strong gains in major project starts

including renewable energy and rail projects,” Allan

Wilen, Glenigan’s Economic Director, said.

He continued: “Despite Budget constraints and

concerns over tax changes dampening growth in late

2024, the outlook for 2025 is positive.

“Increased government and household spending, as

projected by the OBR, will likely provide a muchneeded

boost across key construction sectors,

particularly private housing, retail, and leisure.

“Private housing is expected to see a 13% growth in

project starts, with build-to-rent and SME-focused

initiatives broadening development activity. Retail

projects, while modestly forecasted to grow by 1%,

are set to benefit from a more positive economic

outlook. The hospitality industry is poised for a

revival, with hotel and leisure construction starts

predicted to rise by 6% with landmark projects like

the £250 million Therme UK development providing

an additional boost to sector activity.

“Elsewhere, industrial and civil engineering sectors

are set to expand, driven by projects such as the £8

billion Hornsea Four development and £350 million

Altalto Immingham facility. Meanwhile, office

developments are on track for an 18% growth in

starts, with investment in data centres, including

the £400 million G Park Docklands Data Centre,

reflecting the rise of AI and digital transformation.

“This broad-based growth presents opportunities

for contractors to capitalise on emerging trends,

especially as major investments in infrastructure,

education, and health – such as the £215 million

Cambridge Children’s Hospital and the £80.3

million Ardrossan Community Learning and

Innovation Hub – gain momentum. With resilience

and adaptability, the industry is well-positioned to

meet these demands and thrive in 2025,” Allan

concluded.

COSTLY INJURIES

FOR TRADESPEOPLE

Half of tradespeople have lost income

following an injury at work, a new survey

has revealed.

The study by insurer Markel Direct found that

of those asked, 35% miss one to two weeks

of work a year due to work-related sickness

or accidents. Based on the average day rate

of £238, those that have had to take up to

two weeks off work would be losing over

£2,380 annually.

The study also explored the maximum

amount of time tradespeople have had to

take off due to an injury or illness, with the

most common answer (23%) being four

months. Based on the same day rate, those

that had to take four months off for an injury

could have lost up to £20,508 of income in

that year.

Despite the risk of injury, more than four in

10 tradespeople reported not having

insurance to protect them against accidents

on site, putting their finances and livelihood

at risk.

The economic cost of workplace injury and ill

health in the construction sector was

estimated at £1.3 billion for the year

2021/22, according to HSE data.

www.markeluk.com

FEBRUARY 2025 TC 11

It’s more

than a roof

It’s a Marley Solar Roof System.

LEARN MORE

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

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

designed to work together, whilst making the most of the

growing demand for roof integrated solar panels.

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

marley.co.uk

Industry News

COMMERCIAL WORK

GROWS AS

HOUSEBUILDING DIPS

Housebuilding remains the weakestperforming

part of the construction sector,

according to the latest S&P Global UK

Construction Purchasing Managers’ Index.

“Survey respondents commented on

headwinds from elevated borrowing costs and

the impact of fragile consumer confidence,”

Tim Moore, Economics Director at S&P Global

Market Intelligence, said.

Meanwhile, commercial building maintained its

position as the fastest-growing area of

construction activity. According to the

seasonally adjusted index, Construction output

growth eased to a six-month low as UK

construction companies indicated a loss of

momentum at the end of 2024.

That said, the Construction PMI registered 53.3

in December (down from 55.2 in November and

the lowest for six months) and has sat above

the crucial 50.0 no-change value since March

2024; this signals a solid upturn in overall

construction output.

Residential work was the only category to

register an overall decline in output during

December (47.6). House building activity has

now decreased for three consecutive months

and the latest reduction was the fastest since

June 2024.

Survey respondents noted that subdued

demand conditions, elevated borrowing costs

and weak consumer confidence had all

weighed on activity.

Looking ahead, around 48% of the survey

panel predict a rise in output over the course of

2025, while only 15% forecast a decline. The

degree of positive sentiment picked up sharply

since November, but it was still much weaker

than seen in the first half of 2024.

FUTURE HOMES STANDARD ‘CONFUSION’

Less than a quarter of skilled trades and

builders (23%) are aware of the Future Homes

Standard and how it might impact their work,

according to new research.

The news comes following confusion in the media

about the Future Homes Standard, with recent

reports suggesting the government will scrap the

current agreement to ban gas boilers in new

homes by 2035.

to comply, and 32% have changed the materials

they’re purchasing to ensure they’re in line with

The Department for Energy Security & Net Zero

the new regulations.

has responded to the claims, calling them

‘categorically wrong’.

However, almost half (46%) say they would

appreciate more support or training from the

The research, from leading national builders

industry on the regulations moving forwards.

merchant Jewson, found that of those who are

aware of the upcoming legislation – which will Sabrina Passley, Head of Sustainability for STARK

aim to reduce reliance on fossil fuels to heat Building Materials UK, said: “While there is

homes – almost a third (30%) envisage it will put progress being made to transform the building

financial pressure on their business. A further industry and instil sustainable practices in the

fifth (18%) think it will require them to invest in development of new properties, both the data

additional training and upskilling, to ensure from our Trade Trends report and recent reporting

they’re working compliantly.

in the media demonstrate there is confusion as to

what’s to be expected from the Future Homes

More positively, 17% of respondents to the

Standard. As such, there is more that can be

research – available in Jewson’s Trade Trends

done to support tradespeople and builders during

report – said once the Future Homes Standard is

this transitional period.

in place, it will give them an opportunity to

enhance their reputation. Almost a third (31%) “It is vitally important that suppliers and

said when the legislation comes into effect, they manufacturers in industry work with the

don’t think it will impact their business at all. government as we edge closer to the Future

Homes Standard being introduced, to ensure

The Future Homes Standard is a government

those delivering new properties and refurbishing

initiative for all newbuild homes, which

existing homes know exactly what is expected of

encourages the use of low carbon energy sources

them.

including heat source pumps and other

renewables. It is the next iteration of Part L of the “At Jewson, we want to provide our customers

Building Regulations, which came into place in with the education, services and products they

2022.

need to get to grips with the Future Homes

Standards by ensuring easy access to innovative

As part of the Trade Trends research, Jewson also

technologies, expert advice, and everything else

asked tradespeople and builders about how the

they might need to build sustainably and with

changes to Part L have affected their business so

confidence.”

far. More than a third (33%) said they’re now

confident in understanding Part L, two fifths https://www.jewson.co.uk/about-us/jewsonservices/trade-trends

(41%) know how to adapt their ways of working

14 TC FEBRUARY 2025

CALLING ALL ROOFING CONTRACTORS, BUILDERS & PROPERTY

DEVELOPERS – WHY YOU CAN’T AFFORD TO MISS FIT SHOW 2025!

FIT Show is the UK’s number trade show to see

windows, doors, roof lanterns, skylights,

lightweight roofing and roofline solutions. The

next event takes place at Birmingham NEC –

29 April – 1 May 2025.

Registration is now LIVE for FIT Show 2025, the

UK’s leading event dedicated to windows, doors,

lightweight roofing solutions, flat rooflights,

lanterns, and roofline products. If you’re a roofing

contractor, builder, or property developer, the

organisers say this is your opportunity to discover

the latest innovations from industry-leading

brands such as Ultraframe, Made For Trade, Brett

Martin, SupaLite, Kean Tools, The Rooflight

Association and many more – all under one roof!

Bigger, better & more essential than ever

FIT Show 2025 is set to be the biggest edition yet.

This means even more top brands, cutting-edge

products, and innovative solutions for new builds,

refurbishments, and roofing projects.

What’s in It for you?

• Compare the Best in Roofing & Fenestration

– Explore the latest lightweight tiled roofing

systems, flat rooflights, lanterns, and roofline

products from market leaders like Ultraframe,

Made For Trade, Brett Martin and First Glass

Roofs, and many more – all under one roof!

• Hands-on Installer Demonstrations – The

Installer Demo Zone is back and bigger than ever!

Watch live installations of roofing solutions,

glazing, and roofline products, plus get practical

tips on fitting and finishing.

• Discover Tools & Accessories – Get handson

with the latest workwear, tools, sealants,

fixings, and adhesives to streamline your

installations and enhance your projects.

• Stay Ahead of Regulations & Trends – With

upcoming changes to building regulations and

sustainability standards, FIT Show’s CPDcertified

learning programme, delivered in

partnership with GGF and FENSA, will provide

crucial insights into Part L updates, thermal

efficiency, and compliance.

• Meet & Network with Industry Leaders –

Connect with key manufacturers, suppliers, and

experts in roofing, fenestration, and property

development. Build relationships that will help

grow your business.

Images: Busy aisles, stands and seminar theatres at FIT Show.

Special guests & industry ambassadors

FIT Show 2025 will feature top industry

influencers and experts, including Robin Clevett,

the renowned carpentry, joinery, and building

specialist. With over 113,000 YouTube

subscribers, Robin will be sharing hands-on

insights in the Installer Demo Zone and speaking

on the main seminar stage.

Why you can’t miss it...

With no FIT Show until 2027, this is your only

chance in the next two years to see the full supply

chain in one place, compare products side by

side, and future-proof your business with the

latest knowledge and innovations.

Don’t miss out – register now for FREE at:

www.fitshow.co.uk

FEBRUARY 2025 TC 15

People & Promotions


• James Hardie, a leader in the manufacture

of high-performance fibre cement and fibre

gypsum building solutions, has recruited two

new Sales Managers to enhance its operations

and strengthen its footprint in

Scotland. Gary Maclean (left),

Channel Sales Manager for

Scotland will be responsible for

building relationships with channel

partners to drive Hardie Plank family sales,

whilst Callum Fox joins James Hardie as its

new Hardie Panel Specification Manager for

Scotland. Gary will work closely with Cameron

Scott, James Hardie’s Specification Manager

for the area, to engage with and support local

contractors and independent house builders

with stock fulfilment and technical installation

knowledge, and Callum will be focused on

driving specification with architects and

generating contractor engagement within the

Scottish market.

• A. Proctor Group has

promoted Margaret Airth (left) to

the position of National Sales

Manager, effective immediately. In

her new role, reporting to Sales Director

John Johnston, Margaret will oversee the team

of Regional Sales Managers, providing them

with further support and direction. John

Johnston explained: “Alongside managing

national distribution accounts and our internal

sales team, Margaret already works closely

with our RSMs. Her extensive knowledge of our

business, products, pricing structure, routes to

market, and culture, made Margaret the ideal

candidate to take on the role of National Sales

Manager.” Margaret said of her new role: “The

whole A.Proctor Group sales team continues to

go from strength to strength, so I am thrilled to

be stepping forward to lead our dynamic

Regional Sales Team. I’m looking forward to

working even more closely with them to ensure

our customers continue to receive innovative,

quality and market leading solutions with

exceptional value and service.”

NEW DIVISIONAL MD FOR SIG ROOFING

SIG Roofing has announced Dan Anstey

support of Graham Jennings to help me

(right) has been named Divisional

succeed. Graham is a highly regarded

Managing Director for the Northern

figure in the industry and has achieved

region of the business.

impressive results for the North over the

past four years. I aim to continue developing

He will succeed Graham Jennings who has held

the region and to uphold his legacy,” said Dan

this position for the past four years and has

Anstey.

chosen to transition to a consultancy role.

Dan is tasked with delivering the SIG Roofing

Dan joined the SIG Roofing business at its

strategy in the Northern region with a key focus on

Eastbourne branch when he was 19 years old.

strengthening customer relationships,

Fast forward 28 years, and he has held various

understanding their needs and delivering best-inclass

service.

roles within the company, including Branch

Manager, Area Sales Manager, Sales Director, Key

Account Director, and Business Development

The company says he did an exceptional job as

Director. This extensive experience has provided

Sales Director in the business, and he will now be

him with a deep understanding of the customer

supporting the Northern team in taking on the

needs and the business from the ground up,

competition by having the right branch locations,

equipping him well to take on this challenging new

accessible stock, and the best products on offer.

role.

SIG says it has all the advantages of being a large

“I’m thrilled to have been appointed to this role national roofing supplier that can deliver locally

and I feel fortunate to have the mentorship and for the roofing contractor.

PROMAT FOCUSES ON NORTH & MIDLANDS

Passive fire protection specialist

ensure clear communication with all key

Promat has appointed a new

project stakeholders.

Architectural Specification Manager

Holding the IFE Level 3 in Passive Fire

for the North and Midlands to broaden

Protection and bringing a vast knowledge

its support in the region as demand grows.

of fire safety systems in the construction industry,

Martin Wrigley (pictured) joins the team to work in Martin’s experience will compliment Promat’s

the region alongside Harvey Brown, who has offering as a leading manufacturer of passive fire

recently taken the position of National

protection systems.

Specification Manager.

He said: “Promat creates an impressive suite of

With passive fire protection now needing to be market-leading systems, and I am looking forward

specified at the design stage under the Building to continuing the work they have been doing to

Safety Act, Promat says the demand for

demonstrate their product capabilities to new and

architectural and specification support has existing clients.

increased.

“The Building Safety Act has increased demand

With a successful track record in technical for knowledge and instruction around passive

specification, Martin will work to support

fire protection solutions, and having the support

architects, specifiers, contractors and developers there from the manufacturer up is absolutely

when specifying passive fire protection systems, vital to protect both new and refurbished

manage contractor and vendor relationships, and buildings.”

16 TC FEBRUARY 2025

LONG SERVICE AWARDS AT RRT

Russell Roof Tiles (RRT)

recently presented longservice

awards to its team,

marking a combined 235

years’ service!

In 2022 the firm relaunched its

Long Service Programme so that

alongside certificates and other

gifts, the team each gets

managed woodland from The

Woodland Trust, local to each

Russell Roof Tiles site, donated in

their name. This provides a

unique and long-lasting legacy,

supporting the firm’s commitment

to its local communities as well as

its sustainable values and Net Zero pledge.

RRT Burton Long Service Awards: L-R

Rhodri Jones, Mark Parsons, Liam

Parsons, Terry West, Laura Venables.

Andrew Hayward, MD of Russell Roof Tiles, said:

“We’re grateful to all of our long-serving team and

their dedication to Russell Roof Tiles over the years.

It’s wonderful to be able to mark their legacies with

a unique gift that supports our sustainability values

and benefits our local communities.”

A total of 14 members of the Russell Roof Tiles team

were presented with long-service awards’ six from

its Lochmaben site and eight from its Burton site.

RRT Lochmaben Long Service Awards:

L-R Douglas Campbell, Andrew Jackson,

Colin Stevenson, Robert Thomsen, Scott

Summers, Debbie Allen.

Lochmaben Yard Co-Ordinator Colin

Stevenson celebrated this year’s

longest service anniversary of 35

years. It was also a significant year

for Technical Director, Mark

Parsons, who celebrated his 30-

year anniversary alongside his son,

Technical Assistant, Liam Parsons,

who was awarded for his 10 years

of service.

Other recipients, who celebrated

20 years of service, included

Production Supervisor, Andrew

Jackson, Maintenance Manager,

Douglas Campbell, Burton

Operatives Terry West and Justin

Charlesworth, and Production Supervisor, Robert

Thomsen.

A further six members of staff received recognition

for 10 years’ service. This included Lochmaben

Operative Roy Walker, Production Administrator

Debbie Allen, Senior Logistics Planner Thomas

Baron, Area Sales Manager (Scotland and North)

Scott Summers, Sales Executive (South West and

South Wales) Rhodri Jones, and HR and Payroll

Administrator Laura Venables.

TIMBER EXPERT CONSOLIDATES PRESENCE

Premier Forest Products has appointed

Andrew Stevenson as Group Sales

Director as it consolidates its

national presence.

With multiple sites across the country, the Welsh

headquartered business has expanded its reach in

recent years to serve its broad customer base.

Andrew (pictured above with Terry Edgell, CEO at

Premier Forest) has joined the business from

CWG Choices where he held the post of Sales

Director and brings with him 27 years of

experience within building products and

manufacturing sectors. His strong connections

and experience in driving a customer

centric value proposition throughout the

organisation will allow him to develop

Premier Forest’s sales team from the

head office in Newport, focusing on

developing its existing customer base alongside

driving new business opportunities.

On his appointment, Andrew said: “I’m very

excited to have joined such a well-respected

business as Premier Forest. The ambitious vision

and pedigree of the business is well known

throughout the industry and it is reflected by the

commitment from staff across all functions and,

indeed, its customers.”

• Accuroof has announced Paul

Griffiths (right) as the new

Regional Specification Manager

for the Southwest of England. He

joins the team with 40 years of

experience in the construction market, largely

in roofing, and takes over from Ian Hayward,

who has held the role for the past nine years

and retired at the end of last year. Discussing

the new role, Paul explained: “I am excited to

be part of the Accuroof team. I have known

the team for a long time, and they are

dedicated professionals doing excellent work

in the roofing market. My role will involve

collaborating with both architects and

contractors to provide product training and

specifications for our flat roofing products.

Overall, I aim to generate new enquiries to help

grow our business in the Southwest region.”

• Drylining, insulation and M&E solutions

distributor etag has announced

Mike Newnham (right) as its

new Chair, which it says is

another key step in its

ambitious growth strategy. Mike

joins etag from Saint-Gobain, having been

CEO of its Building Distribution Business, and

Managing Director for Jewson. Mike said:

“Having the opportunity to join etag was an

attractive proposition, with the business

having such a strong history and being

family-owned with an entrepreneurial culture.

This provides a strong platform to begin the

next exciting part of its journey. We are in a

great position to elevate the business’

existing capabilities with new services to

drive significant improvements, building on

what we offer to existing customers and

suppliers, and striking new relationships with

businesses who can also benefit from what

we do. My immediate objectives are to find

ways to improve our customer experience,

putting people first supported by new digital

platforms and new technologies, and ensure

sustainability runs throughout our operations.”

FEBRUARY 2025 TC 17

Health & Wellbeing

TAKING THE PAIN OUT OF YOUR

WORKING LIFE

Callum Hewitt, Trainee Advanced Practice Physiotherapist from the Royal Orthopaedic

Hospital in Birmingham, shares some of the common problems roofers experience and

gives advice on how to prevent them.

Muscle strains, sprains and joint

problems (Musculoskeletal injuries) are

some of the common complaints

physiotherapists see in patients who work in

roofing. Not only does this mean roofers are living

and working with pain but it also costs the

construction industry – £646m as reported by

ARMA 2019 – in time out of work and delays to

projects.

Roofers commonly present with general lower

back pain, shoulder pain, knee injuries –

knee arthritis and patellar bursitis – and

wrist/elbow injuries like tennis elbow

and carpal tunnel. Many of these

conditions are a result of repetitive

movements, use of tools and maintaining

static or awkward postures for a long time.

While ergonomic tools and conveyor belts for

carrying tiles up to the roof have come into play,

they aren’t a replacement for good bone and joint

health.

Preventing injuries

Preventing injuries and long-term conditions like

arthritis reduce the need to take time out of work,

meaning you can get back on the job quicker.

While regularly lifting heavy objects and

manoeuvring on a roof will strengthen muscles,

your body very quickly gets used to this level of

strain. Joints and muscles are designed to move

and be used and therefore having a regular

exercise routine that addresses cardiovascular

fitness, strength and mobility is important for

joint health, but more important is finding a

regime that you enjoy and can stick with. It is

also essential to optimise your overall health

Left: Callum Hewitt. Above: Knee pain is a common issue for roofers.

which will have the single biggest Cardiovascular exercise (see table below)

effect on your overall musculoskeletal Adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of

health. Activity is also known to increase selfesteem,

bone health and prevent age-related minutes of vigorous activity per week. You can

moderate intensity activity per week, or 75

muscle loss, as well as improving psychological split this as you see fit. For example one brisk

health such as self-esteem and reducing stress activity and one moderate activity per week.

and anxiety.

Strengthening exercises (table next page)

But remember, if you have any medical conditions We recommend strengthening exercises that

or concerns, consult your GP prior to commencing target all the major muscle groups (legs, hips,

an exercise regime.

back, abdomen, chest, shoulders and arms) 2-3

times a week.

We would always recommend starting with a

gentle warm up to get the muscles and joints To get strength benefits, the exercises you do

prepared for exercises. It is important to take the should make the muscle tired towards the last

first few sessions of any new programme steady few repetitions. As a general rule repeat them

and build up slowly so your body can adapt. until you feel the muscle aching.

18 TC FEBRUARY 2025

Example programmes can be found on our

website (https://roh.nhs.uk/). You can also try

Yoga, Pilates, Tai chi, lifting weights, working with

resistance bands or gardening.

Improving overall health

Recent advances in scientific research have

identified the importance of overall health for

preventing and managing musculoskeletal pain.

Interestingly, this is now proven to be more

“Roofers commonly

present with general

lower back pain,

shoulder pain, knee

injuries”

important than things like posture or core

strengthening. Focus on maintaining a healthy

weight, cutting down on smoking and alcohol

intake and optimising mental health.

Find out more:

https://roh.nhs.uk/

0121 685 4000

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Bridging the performance gap between specification and

installation

During an A. Proctor Group roundtable event about reducing the performance gap, it was observed that:

“The site operative is perhaps the most important person.” A construction project relies on the people

building it to install the specified products with care and attention. With that in mind, Will Jones, Head of

Business Development at the A. Proctor Group asks what role can product manufacturers play in improving

the link between specification and installation?

Our performance gap roundtable featured a wideranging

discussion covering topics related to designing

and constructing buildings. But one of the most

compelling answers to reducing the performance gap

depended on being considered before design even gets

underway: agreeing end performance criteria right from

the start.

If the desired outcome is a low-carbon building, or energy

performance assessed by post-occupancy monitoring,

then contractual arrangements need to reflect it. A

contract based on meeting building regulations for the

lowest price offers no incentive or additional fees for a

contractor or developer to deliver more than the bare

minimum.

inform more of what happens on site. But communication

works both ways and design should also learn from, and

adapt to, what happens on site.

Somehow that distance needs to be bridged. If it is not

done by contractual arrangements, then manufacturers

can step up to the plate by innovating and creating new

solutions that meet the needs of both parties.

Sheathing boards: a case study

A real-world example of what we’re describing is the

specification of sheathing boards for facade build-ups,

together with our Wraptite ® external air barrier.

The roundtable participants all felt the construction

industry does not operate as collaboratively as it

could. In part, this is due to different roles shifting over

time. The role of the architect is seen as having been

diminished, while contractors have more power and

can overrule design decisions – especially if breaking

the specification makes a saving.

A disconnect between specifier and installer

Nor is it always about cost. Sometimes a specification

is broken because there is an alternative product that

the contractor finds easier to use or better to install.

However, breaking specifications for any reason can

lead to performance gaps being more likely in finished

buildings.

This represents a significant disconnect – a lack of

collaboration – between a specifier aiming primarily for

performance and a contractor focusing on time and

cost. To reduce the performance gap, design needs to

Traditional fibre cement sheathing boards offer a variety of

benefits, and are frequently specified in conjunction with

Wraptite. As a fully self-adhered airtightness membrane

which is also vapour permeable, Wraptite allows the

airtightness line to be moved to the external face of the

structure. In addition, its W1 classification for water holdout

means it can provide temporary weather protection to the

structure, without the need for tapes and sealants.

However, contractors have come to prefer gypsumbased

sheathing boards to fibre cement. They are lighter,

and therefore easier to handle, and easier to cut thanks

to being score and snap. When contractors break a fibre

cement board specification, it’s not uncommon to see the

accompanying Wraptite removed at the same time. Gypsum

boards offer airtightness and weather protection benefits

(with taping and sealing), but not to the same extent that

Wraptite offers.

Contractors are choosing a sheathing board that is easier

to handle, but which introduces extra processes to the

installation – and which may reduce the level of performance

intended by the specifier.

Manufacturing products that contractors want to use:

Proctor A1 Cement Board

In an effort to support specifiers and contractors, we have

launched a new score and snap sheathing board called

Proctor A1 Cement Board.

Key to its development was the desire to offer the best

possible all-round solution. As a result, Proctor A1 Cement

Board combines the benefits of traditional fibre cement

boards with the desirable qualities of newer gypsum

sheathing boards. Where fibre cement products are heavy

and difficult to cut on site, Proctor A1 Cement Board is a

cementitious board that is both lightweight and, uniquely,

score and snap.

Thanks to its excellent durability, the new sheathing board

can be left exposed for longer periods. Taking into account

Wraptite’s water holdout performance too, it means

structural frames are protected even if project timelines are

delayed across installation of the sheathing board and air

barrier system.

Through-wall fire testing has been carried out on the new

sheathing board with Wraptite, ensuring the compatibility

of the two. As a cementitious product, Proctor A1 Cement

Board is automatically classified as non-combustible. The

testing delivered a result of 120 minutes without integrity

failure, so customers can feel assured when choosing a fullyadhered,

vapour permeable external air barrier.

The combination of Proctor A1 Cement Board and

Wraptite is suitable for all projects, but in particular supports

compliance with fire safety requirements for relevant

buildings and helps specifiers and contractors move more

towards a system solution.

Furthermore, Proctor A1 Cement Board is backed up by

third-party certification, comprehensive technical support,

plus on-site support including all complementary fixings and

accessories. In short, it delivers performance while also being

contractor-friendly.

https://proctorgroup.com/all-products

01250 872 261

contact@proctorgroup.com

www.proctorgroup.com

Pitched Roofing

GET THE RIGHT PITCH

Roof pitches play an important role for the roof specification and installation process, as

well as how the roof goes on to perform. Kevin Taylor, Training and Technical Support

Manager at Marley, highlights the ways contractors can obtain important information for a

home construction, renovation or extension project.

Embarking on a project involving a roofing

renovation, or the installation of a new roof

solution, requires contractors to

understand the pitch of the existing roof. Yet,

while it’s an important number to know, it's

probably not information that’s readily to hand.

But assessing the roof pitch doesn’t need to be

complicated, and the following tips will help

contractors obtain essential measurements that

should underpin any roofing work.

“If preparing for a roof renovation, the

installation of a new roof or the

addition of solar panels to the

roofscape, being able to calculate the

roof pitch accurately is important”

What is roof pitch?

Roof pitch refers to the angle or steepness of a

roof. In the UK, most residential roofs typically

have a pitch ranging between 25° and 40°.

However, steeper roofs can have a pitch of up to

70°, while low-pitch roofs may be as shallow as

15°. Notably, a roof with a slope of less than 10°

is classified as a flat roof.

The roof pitch plays an important part in how a

roof performs. The steeper the roof, the quicker

rainwater and snow is discharged off the tiles,

reducing the chance of water ingress due to

capillary action (the movement upwards and

sidewards of water between close-fitting

surfaces). All roofing products must be laid at or

above their minimum pitch to ensure the roof

performs as it should, which is why it’s essential

to know the roof pitch before a specification can

be produced.

Ways to determine the roof pitch

Roofs come in a wide range of shapes and types,

from the most common gable roofs and hip roofs,

to more complex designs, such as mansard roofs,

gambrel roofs and even conical roofs.

While it can be more complicated to determine

Above, left: Kevin Taylor is Training and Technical Support Manager at Marley.

“Roofs are often more

complicated than one

or two angles”

roof pitch with these latter designs, finding the

right triangulation in the roof’s geometry means

it’s possible to calculate the roof pitch in degrees

by geometry, calculation or by measuring with a

pitch finder.

Working out the roof pitch by geometry

Taking a few measurements from inside the loft

space can help determine the height and half

span of the roof, and from there we can work out

the roof pitch. The height is taken from the

underside of the ridge to the bottom edge of the

ceiling joists, or to the decking if boarded. Next,

measure across the span (width) of the roof and

divide this by two. This produces two numbers, for

example: Height of roof = 3m, half span = 4m.

From here, draw the two lines at right angles to

each other using these ratios (e.g., 3cm and 4cm,

6cm and 8cm etc.), join up the triangle and

simply measure the angle with a protractor. In

this case the roof angle would be 37°.

It may also be possible to roughly establish the half

22 TC FEBRUARY 2025

Marley SolarTile.

span of the roof and the height from the outside of

the building. First, measure the half span of the

building (or measure it all then half it), then, count

the brick courses up from the eaves line, if the

bricks are a standard size, multiply the number of

courses by 75mm (65mm + 10mm mortar joint)

or 0.75m to give the height of the roof.

Working out the roof pitch using

trigonometry

The in-built calculators on most smart phones

have made finding the angle much simpler.

Here’s the method using the same numbers as

before: Height of roof = 3m, half span = 4m

first, divide height by half span:

3 / 4 = 0.75

Enter this number then find and press Tan-1 on a

calculator (this may mean pressing 2nd function

or turning the phone to landscape to access the

scientific functions. The answer should be 36.87

(37°).

Measuring the roof pitch using a pitch

finder

Many smartphones also now have an angle or

“Finding the right triangulation in the roof’s

geometry means it’s possible to calculate the

roof pitch in degrees by geometry, calculation or

by measuring with a pitch finder”

pitch finder app as standard. If not, they can be

easily downloaded and are often free to use. To

use a pitch finder on a phone while inside the loft,

simply align the appropriate edge to the

underside of one of the rafters to give the roof

pitch.

If it’s unsafe to access the loft space, the roof

pitch can be established from ground level

outside the building, by standing back and

square onto the side of the building and lining up

the pitch finder with the roof slope. Standalone

digital pitch finders are generally considered to

be more accurate than phone-based apps.

They’re also relatively inexpensive, and easy to

source online and in most roofing merchants.

They can prove to be an invaluable tool if a more

precise reading is required.

Manual pitch finders with a swing arm are also

available from roof tile manufacturers and some

roofing merchants, although these are generally

considered to be less accurate than their digital

equivalents.

Need more help figuring out roof pitch?

If preparing for a roof renovation, the installation

of a new roof or the addition of solar panels to the

roofscape, being able to calculate the roof pitch

accurately is important.

Roofs are often more complicated than one or two

angles, so if you need any assistance with a

roofing project, Marley’s technical team can help

with expert advice around roof calculations, such

as pitch to U-values, specification calculations

and estimates.

Contact Marley

www.marley.co.uk

Marley

FEBRUARY 2025TC 23

Blue Roof Systems

DEVELOPMENTS IN BLUE ROOFS

Justin Pitman, Sales Director of Proteus Waterproofing, discusses the next generation of

blue roofs, which he says offer even more exciting possibilities when it comes to tackling

flash flooding and mitigating surface water runoff...

Traditionally, all new blue roofs have been

designed with dead flat surfaces to facilitate

water retention. However, this approach has

posed limitations in the past, particularly for the

refurbishment market where most existing flat

roofs incorporate a falls or a slope for better

rainwater run-off. That is no longer a problem –

thanks to an innovation which offers good news

for both new build and refurbishment.

Proteus Waterproofing, in collaboration with

drainage specialists ACO, have now developed a

new generation of blue roofs that can incorporate

built-in falls. This allows for controlled water

storage and release on roofs with existing falls – as

well as flat roofs with zero falls – expanding the use

of blue roof systems into the refurbishment roofing

market. This is a step forward for architects

designing for new builds and building owners with

existing, traditional flat roofs.

Converting flat roofs into blue roofs

The refurbishment market will benefit from this

innovation. Many buildings with robust concrete

decks are capable of being converted into blue

roofs, offering environmentally friendly solutions

to surface water management. Concrete decks,

with their inherent strength, can often bear the

additional weight of stored water, making them

ideal candidates for blue roof retrofitting, but until

recently it was not possible for buildings that had

incorporated falls into the original design to be

converted.

Refurbished blue roofs are equally as capable of

storing significant volumes of rainwater, releasing

it gradually to reduce peak flow rates, helping to

alleviate pressure on drainage systems during

heavy rainfall.

By managing water at its source, all types of blue

roofs contribute to achieving greenfield

runoff rates, as recommended by

BS12056 standards – and in the case

of refurbishments, it provides a

sustainable alternative for buildings that

may not have been designed with SuDS in mind –

allowing older structures to meet modern

environmental standards.

Proteus Waterproofing’s modern systems are

specifically designed to ensure that such

refurbishment projects are efficient and reliable.

This includes working with structural engineers to

verify the deck’s capacity to support the additional

load and designing systems to meet the specific

needs of each project, ensuring compliance with

BS12056 and all building regulations.

“Blue roofs are now a

vital component of

sustainable urban

drainage systems”

The growing threat of flash flooding

Climate change has led to an increase in extreme

weather events, with flash flooding becoming a

recurring challenge in urban areas. The UK’s aging

drainage infrastructure is often unable to cope

with sudden surges in rainfall, leading to property

damage, traffic disruption and environmental

degradation.

This is why blue roofs are now a vital component of

sustainable urban drainage systems, offering

multiple benefits. By temporarily storing rainwater,

blue roofs reduce the volume and speed of runoff

entering drainage systems, mitigating flood risks.

Blue roofs also manage water at its source,

aligning with the drainage hierarchy outlined in

Left: Justin Pitman.

many local authority strategies.

Furthermore, when combined with

green roofs, blue roofs enhance

biodiversity, improve air quality and

contribute to urban cooling.

Proteus Waterproofing offers a comprehensive

range of waterproofing solutions designed to

support blue and green roof installations. Our

systems are developed to meet the highest

standards of performance, sustainability and

compliance.

They’ve also been rigorously tested to ensure

durability and reliability, even under the most

challenging conditions. We work closely with

architects, contractors and other industry

specialists to deliver solutions that meet projectspecific

requirements.

Our blue roof systems are also fully compliant with

BS12056, the British Standard for gravity drainage

systems. This ensures that our solutions align with

best practices for rainwater drainage, supporting

sustainable urban development.

The evolution of blue and green roof systems

represents a significant advancement in

sustainable urban drainage. It allows the

refurbishment of existing flat roofs to include a Blue

Roof and an associated Green Roof. Proteus

Waterproofing is leading the way in innovative

design and implementation, helping to address the

challenges of flash flooding and enhance urban

resilience – and we are proud to say that our

solutions are contributing to a cleaner, greener and

more sustainable future.

Contact Proteus Waterproofing

www.proteuswaterproofing.co.uk

24 TC FEBRUARY 2025

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Company Focus

JONES WEATHERPROOFING:

ON A MISSION TO SUCCESS

After 45 years in the industry, specialist weatherproofing contractor Jones & Woolman UK

changed its name to Jones Weatherproofing, unveiled a new brand and launched its new

leadership programme. Here we talk to Jones Weatherproofing’s joint Managing Director,

Daren Jones, about how the company has evolved since its inception in 1979, and how

these latest initiatives support its growth plans…

A chance conversation

In the late 1970s, Sid Jones and Terry Woolman

worked for fibreglass coach panel

manufacturer Harpers. When it went out of

business, the pair decided to open a small shop

in Birmingham manufacturing fibreglass

products. Sid’s sons, Steve and Daren, now the

company’s joint Managing Directors, both joined

the firm from school.

“We all worked extremely hard, often seven days

a week,” said Daren. “Competition in coach panel

manufacturing was tough, and we were frequently

undercut by bigger operations that could make

lower-cost products at scale.”

By 1987, the company had moved to Darlaston

and Daren recalls that it was a chance

conversation with their new neighbours, Naylor

Builders, that led to a change in direction for the

business.

Above: Original Jones Weatherproofing directors team image from 1979.

“The builders were struggling to weatherproof

around a chimney flue and Dad was convinced he

could use GRP to create a weatherproofing

solution. Like all great ideas, the first attempt

was far from successful, but Dad, and the

builders, thought there was potential, so we kept

experimenting with different formulas.”

Moving into weatherproofing penetrations

The investment paid off and over time the

company developed a solution that was flexible

enough to go around different penetrations and

could be bonded to the roof, creating a

weathertight seal. So, the team started designing

“The builders were

struggling to

weatherproof around a

chimney flue and Dad

was convinced he

could use GRP to create

a weatherproofing

solution”

and installing penetration weatherproofing on

roofs across the country alongside coach panel

manufacturing.

“We could all see pretty quickly that by

specialising in weatherproofing we could develop

and grow the business in a way that simply

wasn’t possible before,” said Daren. “So, we

undertook testing to demonstrate the solution

was durable and long lasting.”

Testing was carried out at Ro Tech Laboratories

Limited in February 2010. The team installed their

weatherproofing solutions on a test rig, where it

was subjected to simulated weather conditions

and temperatures to mimic sun, frost and

torrential rain. This showed the proprietary

weatherproofing solution for penetrations could

26 TC FEBRUARY 2025

overseas, the directors decided the time was right

to change the company’s name and rebrand.

“We knew we needed a name that would work

hard, representing our history, who we are now

and where we want to go,” said Daren. “It needed

to reflect our family values, describe what we do

and be recognisable to our existing and potential

new customers and partners around the world.

We think Jones Weatherproofing does all that.”

Above: Van and uniform with new Jones Weatherproofing branding which represents the company’s history, but also better

reflects the areas of focus for the company now and future direction of the business.

“We now work closely with both the specifier and

main contractor throughout the process,

undertaking everything from the initial design

through to installation with warranty. It gives

peace of mind”

withstand 240 hours of resistance to salt spray

resistance testing, humidity testing, freeze

resistance at -10 degrees and dry heat at 70

degrees without significant adhesion or

breakdown.

Overall, test panels showed no evidence of

blistering, no loss of adhesion and no significant

breakdown of the grey polyester resin laminate

edges.

“As far as we know, we were the first company to

undertake such testing for the weatherproofing of

penetrations,” explained Daren. “It meant that we

could offer industry leading 25-year warranties.”

The test results kickstarted the company’s growth

and attracted the attention of cladding

manufacturers, including Tata Steel and

Kingspan, looking for reliable weatherproofing

solutions to support their systems.

“It became clear that building envelope

penetrations for the building services isn’t always

the responsibility of either the architect or the

M&E consultant, and it can only be a

consideration once the project is under

construction. So we now work closely with both

the specifier and main contractor throughout the

process, undertaking everything from the initial

design through to installation with warranty. It

gives peace of mind,” added Daren.

Today, Jones Weatherproofing undertakes a

variety of commercial projects and has

established a reputation for weatherproofing

penetrations on mission critical buildings such as

data centres, hospitals, airports and sports

stadia.

Global ambitions

With the company working on much larger

projects and ambitions to do more projects

Accelerated Leadership Programme

The company has also launched a new leadership

programme to support its planned growth. The

Accelerated Leadership Programme (ALP) is

designed to help ambitious individuals develop

the skills they need to go from working solely ‘on

the tools’ into on-site management on prestigious

projects in the UK and abroad.

“We need supervisors who can deliver high

quality workmanship and manage multiple teams

on-site. They need to have high levels of

computer literacy, an excellent understanding of

Health and Safety and good administration

skills,” said Daren. “It’s ideal for someone who

has the ambition to succeed in management but

wouldn’t enjoy being stuck behind a desk all day.”

Jones Weatherproofing’s long-term ambition is to

become the weatherproofing specialist of choice

for building penetrations for mission critical

buildings globally. When you consider how the

company has evolved from a small coach panel

manufacturer into the UK’s market leader in

weatherproofing penetrations it’s not hard to

imagine they’ll succeed.

Contact Jones Weatherproofing

01922 712111

www.jones-weatherproofing.com

Jones Weatherproofing

FEBRUARY 2025 TC 27

Pitched Roofs: Ventilation

VENTILATING COMPLEX ROOF

SPACES

Even the simplest roof design can be complex to specify, especially when it comes to

correctly and successfully ventilating the loft space. In their latest Proctor Promotes Good

Practice column, the team at A. Proctor Group discuss best practice in new-build and

retrofit projects with more complicated roof shapes, to ensure consistent ventilation

through the whole roof space.

There is plenty of advice in the roofing sector

on ventilating pitched roofs. Look up any

guidance about controlling condensation in

roof spaces though, and it is usually pictures of

simple dual-pitch roofs with no obstructions in

the roof space. This scenario is far from

guaranteed, especially in existing buildings.

How can roofs be designed to perform better

while making life easier for specifiers, installers

and homeowners? First, it helps to understand

why the topic of roof ventilation can get so

complex.

28 TC FEBRUARY 2025

What determines how roof spaces need to

be ventilated?

Can a roof space be ventilated at the eaves only?

Is a combination of eaves and ridge ventilation

required? The answer depends on a number of

variables.

Is the roof underlay a traditional high-resistance

(HR) membrane, like bitumen felt, which doesn’t

allow the passage of vapour or air?

Is it a more modern low-resistance (LR)

membrane? If so, is it airtight? If it is airtight then

it allows vapour diffusion but doesn’t have the

additional benefit of air passing through to

enhance moisture removal.

Other factors then come into play. The width of

the building, and therefore the distance across

the roof space, matters in roofs with an HR

underlay. The pitch of the roof also affects airflow.

Ventilation requirements for vapour permeable LR

underlays depend on whether the ceiling of the

top storey is well-sealed or not. Even if a ceiling

is well-sealed when first built, home

Continued on page 30

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Pitched Roofs: Ventilation

Continued from page 28

“Proctor Air’s water resistance

has been tested and meets the

threshold of over 1m of water

holdout recommended in the

NFRC’s Technical Bulletin TB06”

improvements and renovation works carried out

later can easily change that.

Whether eaves or ridge ventilation is required, or

both, there is no single solution in terms of the

size of ventilation openings that must be

installed.

What is a ‘complex’ roof space?

Not every roof space matches the ideal of a

simple, unobstructed, dual-pitch roof. Any

variation from that can be considered a more

‘complex’ roof.

As the Loft Conversion Project Guide describes,

restrictions at eaves can affect ventilation

provision. This is a particular issue with the

insulation thicknesses installed in roof spaces.

Changes in roof slope (i.e., valleys and hips) and

changes in construction details (e.g., a junction

between a pitched roof and a flat roof) all make

clear roof spaces more difficult to achieve.

And obstructions such as dormers, roof windows,

compartment walls, fire barriers or changes in

pitch all create separate ventilation voids in the

roof slope. Any complicated detailing makes it

necessary to add more ventilation openings.

Any of these situations can change how air flows

“Changes in roof slope

and changes in

construction details all

make clear roof spaces

more difficult to

achieve”

within a loft. The diligent installation of ventilation

openings, all in the right place and all of the

correct size, is not enough to guarantee avoiding

‘dead zones’ within the roof space. In such areas,

reduced air flow means moisture removal is not

consistent across the whole roof space.

Proctor Air: a good practice solution for

consistent moisture removal

The A. Proctor Group’s pitched roof underlay,

Proctor Air, is the perfect solution for roofs of all

types, including complex roofs. It is an air

permeable LR underlay, so permits the passage of

air as well as moisture vapour.

As a result, ceilings don’t need to be well-sealed

and no ventilation measures are required in cold

roof spaces. Compared to standard vents, Proctor

Air provides a uniform flow of air and removes

condensation risk in the roof space.

Among other benefits, Proctor Air’s water

resistance has also been tested and meets the

threshold of over 1m of water holdout

recommended in the NFRC’s Technical Bulletin

TB06.

Where periods of severe inclement weather or

prolonged exposure are expected during

installation, BS 5534 and BBA Bulletin 2 advise

that temporary protection be considered. This is

especially important in retrofit projects, where

occupants are likely to remain in residence or

there are sensitive internal finishes.

The A. Proctor Group is a 4th generation family

business with a history of technical innovation,

promoting good practice, and developing products

that roofing contractors want to use. We have

applied this wealth of experience to creating the

next generation of air permeable LR membrane.

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

offering peace of mind even in the face of an

uncertain future climate.

Contact A. Proctor Group

01250 872 261

https://proctorgroup.com/products/

proctor-air

30 TC FEBRUARY 2025

NEW YEAR,

NEW FOCUS?

INVEST IN YOUR COMPANY’S FUTURE

Technical advice, the industry quality stamp

and fantastic profile-raising opportunities

—for all roofing disciplines

NFRC sets the highest standards for work across

all roofing and cladding disciplines. But we’re

much more than the industry’s quality assurance

stamp. Membership of the trade association offers

contractors and suppliers a range of powerful

technical and commercial advantages.

2024 UK Roofing Awards

Fully Supported Metal Finalist

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3 | Working Towards Zero Avoidable Waste in the Roofing Sector

NFRC trade

membership benefits

WHAT BEING AN NFRC MEMBER MEANS FOR YOU

3 | Working Towards Zero Avoidable Waste in the Roofing Sector

NFRC supplier

membership benefits

EXCLUSIVE ACCESS TO OUR ROOFING

CONTRACTOR MEMBERS

Call 020 7638 7663 or visit

nfrc.co.uk/TCbenefits to request our

benefits brochure—and find out more

about what NFRC membership can do

for your business.

PROFESSIONAL

NFRC GROUP ALSO INCLUDES

COMPETENT

COMMUNITY

Competent Person Scheme:

self-certify roof refurbishment

to Building Regs

Roofing operatives

competency accreditation

Promoting roofing as a

skilled profession and

offering career advice

UK’s premier event for

the roofing industry

Supporting hardship, training/

upskilling, volunteering

and environment

Contractors with knowledge,

skills and experience of

heritage roofing systems

NFRC Roofing Talk

FOCUSES FOR THE FUTURE...

James Talman, Group CEO of NFRC, discusses the association’s renewed policy focuses for

the years ahead, with tackling late payment, retentions, skills and recruitment issues sitting

high on the agenda…

Trade associations are central in shaping

policy alongside government and industry

partners. In a rapidly evolving construction

landscape – marked by the pandemic’s lasting

impacts, shifting building regulations, and the

rollout of the Building Safety Act – NFRC

has refreshed its policy objectives to

tackle immediate challenges and

look to create sustainable, longterm

opportunities for investment

into the roofing and cladding sectors.

While these objectives remain core to

NFRC’s advocacy, they also tie in with broader

national efforts to bolster the UK construction

industry – from increasing energy efficiency and

retrofitting the country’s ageing building stock, to

responding to ongoing skills shortages.

Retentions

Retention clauses in construction contracts pose

serious financial challenges for many

contractors. Retentions often worsen cash flow,

profitability, and business stability, and this is felt

most by smaller operators. NFRC is advocating

for the removal of retention clauses from

standard contract templates, including JCT and

NEC forms, and calls on the government to go

further than merely reporting on retention

practices.

Recent changes to reporting requirements on

retention practices, which are a direct result of

NFRC’s advocacy in the past, are a step in the

right direction and will give businesses more

intelligence when it comes to choosing who they

work with. However, there must be enforcement

of reporting regulations for systemic change to

happen, and this is currently lacking.

“NFRC is advocating for the removal of retention

clauses from standard contract templates,

including JCT and NEC forms, and calls on the

government to go further than merely reporting

on retention practices”

Late payments

Similar productivity impacts are felt

from late payment, which remains

commonplace and continues to strain

relationships across the sector. NFRC is in the

process of signing up for the new Fair Payment

Code, which publicly marks businesses on their

payment promptness, and we encourage other

businesses to do the same. In line with the

Procurement Act 2023, due to roll out in February,

NFRC will push for stronger safeguards that

consider payment practices within public

procurement.

“Awarding contracts to

the most qualified

bidders instead of the

cheapest is crucial”

Professionalising

As building safety legislation and regulations

expand, NFRC believes that the quality of

workmanship should be paramount. Awarding

contracts to the most qualified bidders instead of

the cheapest is crucial for ensuring projects meet

high standards and for stamping out rogue

traders. NFRC will work with government bodies

and main contractors to enforce Common

Assessment Standards and promote accredited

schemes – like TrustMark – so that

professionalism is recognised and rewarded at

every level.

Skills crisis

The lack of skilled labour is a critical bottleneck

that will restrict industry and housing growth

over the coming years. We are engaging with

Skills England, the Department for Education,

CITB, and the Department for Work and Pensions,

to ensure the nuances of our industries are

considered within construction education

strategies, focusing efforts on employers’ needs

including making sure the growth & skills levy

supports and incentivises businesses to act

strategically.

Stimulating investment

Upgrading and retrofitting the UK’s existing

buildings is central to reaching energy efficiency

goals – and roofing and cladding companies

have a pivotal role in delivering solutions. NFRC

calls for greater incentives to boost investment in

modernising homes and buildings, including

expanding capital allowances and revisiting

conservation laws to allow more retrofit work on

heritage properties. Progress here will not only

cut emissions but also create jobs and economic

growth across all regions.

Skilled solar

With the UK’s net-zero aspirations driving a

surge in solar installations, NFRC is stressing the

32 TC FEBRUARY 2025

importance of ensuring the expertise of those

qualified to work at height and handle specialist

roofing materials is considered and prioritised. By

working with policymakers to review regulations

and training standards, NFRC hopes to guarantee

that solar installations are both safe and effective,

securing the reputation of roofing

professionals as key players in the

clean energy transition.

Product standards

Uncertainty about

product standards post-

Brexit continues to

discourage investment.

NFRC supports clarity on the

UK’s regulatory alignment with the

EU so manufacturers can plan for the long

term. Clear guidance and streamlined testing

requirements will help suppliers confidently

develop and distribute innovations, driving

competitiveness in a global market.

“By working with policymakers to review

regulations and training standards, NFRC hopes

to guarantee that solar installations are both

safe and effective, securing the reputation of

roofing professionals as key players in the clean

energy transition”

Left: image shows Marley SolarTile

being installed.

Social responsibility

Pressure is mounting on

construction to prove its

commitment to sustainable,

ethical business practices.

NFRC aims to support members

in adopting greener approaches,

improving their public image, and bringing more

diverse talent into the trade. By championing

inclusive recruitment strategies, waste reduction,

and community engagement, the sector can meet

growing expectations from government and the

public.

While NFRC’s primary focuses are outlined above,

we remain responsive to emerging challenges. We

are also always open to collaboration with other

organisations when goals align. All the focuses

discussed involve construction as a whole and

we must all work together to solve them.

Contact NFRC

www.nfrc.co.uk

NFRC

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LRWA Awards 2025

FINALISTS REVEALED FOR

LRWA AWARDS 2025!

The shortlist for the LRWA Awards 2025 has been revealed, with 23 standout projects

battling it out across five categories to take home the trophies at the Titanic Hotel in

Liverpool next month!

The Liquid Roofing and Waterproofing

Association (LRWA) has unveiled the

finalists for its prestigious 2025 Awards &

Gala Dinner.

A total of 23 projects have been selected across

five categories, including the highly anticipated

new Sustainability Award, introduced this year to

highlight outstanding achievements in

sustainable liquid roofing and waterproofing.

An independent panel of judges anonymously

reviewed all project category submissions against

strict criteria which included project complexity,

workmanship, problem-solving, and aesthetics.

Winners will be announced during the gala dinner

on Wednesday, 26 March 2025, at the iconic

Titanic Hotel in Liverpool’s Stanley Dock.

Alongside winners in each project category, the

evening will also celebrate individuals excelling in

the sector with awards such as Trainer of the Year

and Student of the Year.

The 2025 Awards & Gala Dinner, supported by

headline sponsor, Remmers, promises to be the

biggest celebration yet as it marks its seventh

year.

Sarah Spink, CEO of the LRWA, commented: “This

year marks a new milestone for the LRWA Awards

with the introduction of the Sustainability Award,

a category that reflects the growing importance of

sustainable practices in our industry. It’s

incredibly exciting to see members rise to the

challenge and showcase their innovation and

dedication to addressing environmental and

social impacts.

“Our Sustainability Committee worked hard to

develop a robust framework for this award, based

on key themes such as reduced environmental

impact, carbon management, and responsible

supply chain practices. We’re thrilled to see such

strong contenders in the category’s inaugural

year, and we hope it will inspire even more

members to embrace sustainability in the future.”

Liquid Roofing Project of the Year

(<1000m²):

Burgh Island Hotel: Salt Town Contractors and

Liquid Roofing Systems.

Lady McAlpine: Sika and Roofing Matters Group.

Lincombe Keep: Accuroof and SMW Roofing.

The Savoy Hotel: Polyroof and Capital Roofing

Ltd.

Turner Street Residential: Sika and Permicoat.

Liquid Roofing Project of the Year

(>1000m²):

Center Parcs, Whinfell Forest: Sika and Central

Roofing.

National Railway Museum, York: Sika and

Malden Roofing.

Queen’s Club: Tor and RTM Roofing Contractors.

Spectrum House: Polyroof and MLG UK.

York Railway Station: Sika and Everlast Rail.

Liquid Roofing Project of the Year (Buried

Application):

90 Long Acre: MAC Roofing & Contracting and

BMI.

Google KGX1: Lindner Prater and Radmat.

Sarah Spink, CEO of LRWA.

Kew Bridge Rise: StructureCare and Tremco CPG.

Marylebone House: Proteus Waterproofing and

Essential Building Services.

Poplar Riverside: MAC Roofing & Contracting

and Alumasc.

Liquid Waterproofing Project of the Year:

Pierhead Lock Terraces: WestWood Liquid

Technologies and M & J Group.

Q Park Windsor Yards: StructureCare and

Tremco CPG.

Sandown Park Racecourse: Widopan and Noble

House Services (UK) Ltd.

Swan Walk Car Park: Triflex and Rateavon.

The Thistles Car Park: McConnell and Triflex.

Sustainability Project of the Year:

40 Leadenhall and 19-21 Billiter Street:

Proteus Waterproofing and ARC Waterproofing.

90 Long Acre: MAC Roofing & Contracting and

BMI.

Worship Square: Lindner Prater and Radmat.

Find out more about the LRWA Awards 2025:

https://www.lrwa.org.uk/events/lrwaawards-gala-dinner-2025/

34 TC FEBRUARY 2025

Product Focus: Underlays

FUTURE-PROOF YOUR ROOF: THE

MULTIPLE BENEFITS OF ROOFSHIELD

The team at Don & Low say that as unpredictable weather conditions are becoming the

new norm, the choice of materials, especially roof underlays, is even more crucial and can

heavily impact a roof’s durability...

The first month of 2025 didn’t just bring

‘Blue Monday’; it also ushered in a series of

severe storms that swept across the UK.

Fortunately, storms Éowyn and Herminia are now

in the past, yet it appears that unpredictable

weather conditions have become the new norm.

Although a properly built roof has always been

crucial for protecting both a structure’s integrity

and everything that’s inside, currently its

importance is paramount.

The choice of materials, especially roof underlays,

heavily impacts a roof’s durability. Roofshield, the

forever original air and vapour permeable

membrane, is a market-leading solution designed

and made in the UK by Don & Low. Offering

exemplary breathability and protection without the

need for additional ventilation, Roofshield

effectively enhances roof performance and

longevity.

Why Roofshield is synonymous with

roofing excellence

A healthy roof is a sturdy roof. Hence, for home

builders and owners alike, condensation is a

major concern. Inadequate ventilation of roof

spaces inevitably leads to serious moisture and

mould problems. Persistent long-term moisture,

for instance, can cause timber deterioration,

ultimately rendering the roof structurally unsound.

What’s more, the presence of black mould may

give rise to major health issues.

Roofshield enables the passage of air and

moisture vapour, which means enhanced

ventilation while maintaining a weather-tight seal.

The popular membrane holds BBA certification for

use in cold and warm non-ventilated roofs, as

well as NHBC’s approval that no additional

Roofshield installations. Images courtesy of CM Roofing &

Guttering.

ventilation is required. However, Roofshield not

only eliminates the need for extra ventilation but

is also perfectly suited for ventilated roofs,

therefore delivering a reliable and efficient way to

further reduce the risk of condensation buildup.

Furthermore, Roofshield makes absolutely no

compromise in terms of durability, reducing the

need for frequent repairs or replacements.

Thanks to Don & Low’s R&D developments, the

membrane’s weight has been recently boosted

from 185 grams to 196 grams per square metre.

Consequently, Roofshield now stands out as the

heaviest underlay in its class. This enhancement

benefits the membrane’s strength and water

resistance, resulting in even better protection

under harsh weather conditions.

Roofshield effectively tackles the challenges

presented by external factors such as UV

radiation, temperature fluctuations and

environmental pollutants. Plus, it makes a big

difference in contractors' time frames and

budgets since it’s easy to install, doesn’t require

ventilation products, and provides immediate

weather resistance.

When it comes to sustainability, Roofshield’s

Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) helps

architects, developers and contractors effectively

manage Scope 3 emissions. Essentially, an EPD

provides unbiased, standardised and

independently verified information on the

membrane’s environmental impact throughout its

entire lifecycle. Thus, opting for Roofshield

demonstrates a commitment to responsible and

sustainable construction practices.

With nearly 30 years of real-world use, Roofshield

is a perfect solution for healthy, strong roofs,

establishing confidence in its performance.

Always evolving to meet today’s and future

demands, Roofshield stands as the industry’s

forever original and trusted ally in roofing

excellence.

Contact Don & Low

0808 169 4444

Email: membranes@donlow.co.uk

www.donlow.co.uk

FEBRUARY 2025 TC 35

Ventilation

UNDERSTANDING THE REQUIREMENTS

FOR RIDGE LINE VENTILATION

Hambleside Danelaw explains all...

Consideration of high-level roof ventilation is

a key requirement for both cold and warm

pitched roofs this is particularly relevant

with cold temperatures and ever-increasing

insulation requirements (see BRE Report BR262

‘Thermal insulation: avoiding risks’ for further

information). High-level ventilation solutions, such

as dry fix ridge systems and tile vents, provide

routes for air, water vapour and moisture to escape

the roof space, helping to avoid condensation,

damp, and decay. In this article, Hambleside

Danelaw focuses on where ridge level ventilation is

required, while highlighting some of the products

available to meet the requirements.

But first, it is important to offer an overview of the

relevant British Standards:

• BS 5250: Management of moisture in buildings

specifies the main sources of moisture in buildings,

how that moisture would travel through the

environment, as well as the best ways to manage

that moisture to minimise any harmful effects.

• BS 5534: Slating and tiling for pitched roofs and

vertical cladding. Code of practice was last revised

in 2018 to reflect the demands of increasing

extreme weather events. It details best practice for

slating and tiling and the need to avoid the reliance

on mortar on roofs in favour of mechanical fixing.

• BS 8612: Dry fixed ridge, hip, and verge systems

for slating and tiling. Specification was published in

2018 to address industry concerns around the

variable quality and performance of newer, low-cost

products entering the UK market. The standard

outlines the minimum performance requirements

for dry fix systems used at the ridge, hips and

verges.

The considerations contained in the above include:

the requirement for the adequate fixing of all roofing

components, the importance of ventilation to

manage moisture, and the wind load

resistance in the roofing design.

Warm or cold roof

The type of roof construction must also be

considered. Typically, British pitched roofing is

designed to be either a ‘cold’ or ‘warm’ type or can

be a combination of both. A cold pitched roof

generally has the insulation layer at ceiling joist

level leaving a large cavity above, whereas a warm

or hybrid roof has the insulation layer following the

rafter line.

Generally speaking, ventilation is always required

with cold roof construction, whereas it may not

always be needed for warm pitched roofs. For these

roofs, the main focus should be minimising the risk

of condensation by providing clear airpaths across

the roof and to the outside where the moisture can

be dispersed.

Here the ventilation openings are usually provided

at low level and as close to the eaves as possible

but above the insulation layer. For roof pitches

above 35° or roof spans exceeding 10m, an

equivalent of a continuous 5mm ventilation is

required at the ridge. This will most often be

provided by a ventilating dry fix ridge kit such as

Hambleside Danelaw’s CON6+, MONO6+ (for

mono ridge tiles), or CLAY6+ (for use with all

common baby or clay ridge tiles). More recently we

have seen the use of Low Resistance (LR)

underlays dominate the market. Whether vapour

permeable or air and vapour permeable, BS 5250

requires them to be treated in the same way. The

use of these underlays allows for a reduction in the

amount of ventilation required. For example, a

property with a well-sealed ceiling may only require

ventilation openings at the ridge.

Balancing aesthetics with functionality

With the history and heritage of the construction

trade, and especially roofing, comes a lot of

tradition, and traditional applications

using lead or mortar reduce the

opportunity for those much-needed

ventilation openings at high level. While

lead and other metal applications have been

used for generations and offer key positives such as

recyclability and durability, they can also pose an

issue when it comes to water reclamation systems,

theft risk, cost and the growing skills gap.

There are more and more options on the market

which retain the appearance and style of these

traditional applications, while meeting the latest

industry requirements. SwiftRidg+ Roll Top Ridge

and Hip System, for example, is an alternative to

the lead, zinc or more crude galvanised roll top

ridge and hip method which can provide a

minimum of 7,500mm² airflow ventilation area per

linear metre if required.

The traditional look of mortar can now also be

retained with a ventilating ridge system using the

latest innovation from Hambleside Danelaw:

VentRidg. The VentRidg system features a mortar

bonding strip along lengths of a GRP flashing for

mortar retention, in addition to an integral

corrugated ventilation strip on the underside.

Simple to install, this system delivers high level roof

ventilation combined with mechanical fixing

suitable for most concrete and clay ridge tiles.

Cancelling the need for compromise

The range of products available from Danelaw

means that contractors, specifiers and

housebuilders can all meet the requirements as

well as maintain the appearance appropriate for

the build.

Contact Hambleside Danelaw

Email: sales@hambleside-danelaw.co.uk

36 TC FEBRUARY 2025

The Underlay Lap Ventilator

Designed for simple, professional or DIY installation.

Installed from the inside of cold pitched roofs where

there is inadequate ventilation and condensation is

a problem during the winter months.

FEATURES AND BENEFITS

• Easy and quick installation

Product code:

HD ULV-B

• High airflow - 3200mm² per unit

• Shallow profile

Roofing Updates

SOLARTILE CCPI BOOST

Marley has been awarded with a British Board

of Agrément (BBA) certification for its

innovative SolarTile 410W range, which

includes flashing kits and integrated solar

panels. This certification uniquely confirms

that Marley SolarTile meets stringent

standards for electricity generation from

sunlight on pitched roofs between 20° and 60°

on both domestic and non-domestic buildings.

The BBA certification validates the performance,

safety and sustainability of Marley’s SolarTile,

confirming its full compliance with building

regulations, technical specifications and design

considerations. It also reflects the outcome of

rigorous assessment in areas such as

mechanical resistance, fire safety, hygiene,

environmental impact, energy efficiency, and

durability.

Daniel Redfern, Head of Marketing

Communications at Marley, commented:

"Achieving BBA certification for our SolarTile

410W system further reinforces our commitment

to delivering high-performance, durable roofing

solutions. The certification assures customers

that Marley’s SolarTile 410 panels and

associated fixings and flashings meets stringent

standards for safety, durability and efficiency,

providing a reliable choice for those seeking to

incorporate solar energy into their building

projects.”

www.marley.co.uk

SEDUM RESURGENCE FOR GREEN ROOFS

Wallbarn has described sedum as ‘the hero of green roof systems for decades’, and says it is now ‘making a

comeback after several years of wildflower living roof systems throwing shade on it.’

The modular green roofing system manufacturer says the low maintenance, heat and drought tolerant plants – also known

as ‘stonecrops’ which gives a good indication of their hardiness – are increasingly being recognised by specifiers for their

lengthy flowering season and eco benefits. Julian Thurbin of Wallbarn described sedum as delivering a ‘sea of flowers’ for many months which he says not only

looks beautiful, but also give much needed support to wild bee communities. He explained: “Wildflowers have proved a really popular choice but we’re seeing

clients and specifiers circle back to sedum – the original extensive green roof plants of choice – because it delivers a longer flowering season and is being

recognised for its ability to feed and support wild bees. There’s no compromise in terms of aesthetics, customers are often really surprised by the beauty and

variety of flowering sedum when they see images of our modular M-Tray sedum roofs.” Julian says including green roofs in projects from garden office roofs to

vast commercial installations feeds into growing calls for the government to support green economic growth. He points to a report from the Environmental

Horticulture Group (EHG) which outlined how environmental horticulture is ‘essential to nature-based climate solutions’, with urban green spaces mitigating

climate impacts and enhancing biodiversity, benefits valued at £27.4 billion in 2021, according to the EHG. www.wallbarn.com

SIGA SLATE GAINS CCPI ACCREDITATION

SIGA, available exclusively through SIG Roofing, has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the

first natural roofing slate to pass the Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI) assessment.

SIG Roofing says this achievement confirms that all product information provided for SIGA natural slate

meets the CCPI’s ‘acid tests’ of being clear, accurate, accessible, up-to-date, and unambiguous. Gemma

Prince, SIG Roofing’s Category Director, commented: “SIGA natural slates are sourced from a wide range of

quarries and are categorised into Prestige, Excellence, Commercial, and Classic ranges to help our

customers select the right product for their projects. Each slate is assigned a SIGA number, which ensures

traceability and consistency by specifically identifying its quarry and selection. By working closely with international quarries, SIG Roofing ensures all

natural slates within the SIGA brand meet UK requirements. With robust processes in place for managing product information, we are also able to make

sure that our information remains clear and up-to-date. As a business, we strongly support the CCPI and are thrilled that SIGA natural slates have been

recognised for their trustworthy and accurate product information.” www.sigaslate.co.uk

38 TC FEBRUARY 2025

THE PERFECT FIT...

The Rooflight Association will be exhibiting on

stand F17 at this year’s FIT Show at NEC

Birmingham, 29th April – 1st May 2025.

The Rooflight Association is ‘the voice of the UK’s

rooflight industry’ and represents members

spanning the complete supply chain: installers,

contractors, distributors, specifiers, consultants

and, of course, rooflight manufacturers.

Visitors to the show will have the opportunity to

find out more about Rooflight Association

membership, as well as its current work and

future plans. Copies of the Association’s

comprehensive Membership Prospectus entitled

‘Tools to Build a Brighter Future’, will be available

on the stand, giving full details for

prospective members.

Rooflight Association Marketing Chair, Jon

Shooter, said: “We’re delighted to confirm our

presence at this year’s FIT Show. This event

provides a great opportunity for us to continue

building new relationships within the roofing

sector and to highlight the benefits of

membership for installers and contractors. We

look forward to welcoming visitors to our stand.

There will be lots to talk about!”

Rooflight Association member companies Brett

Martin Daylight Systems and Whitesales, will

also be exhibiting at the show.

https://rooflightassociation.org/

Join The Rooflight Association on Stand F17

HOSPITAL ROOF AREA CREATED FOR DRONE DELIVERY

PERMAROOF Commercial, part of

PermaGroup, has completed a groundbreaking

project, creating a drone landing

strip and storage area on the roof of the

Cancer Centre at Guy’s Hospital.

Long-standing PermaRoof Commercial client,

CK Group Services was tasked with the project

as part of its ongoing work with Guy’s and St

Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust. The landing

area is designed to facilitate urgent blood

samples being transported for analysis

between the two hospitals via drone to avoid

traffic across London.

Having worked together for a number of years,

CK Group Services enrolled the team at

PermaRoof Commercial to provide the

specification and products for the groundbreaking

project, which will see transfer travel

times cut considerably.

The roof at Guy's Hospital

before work commenced.

The project was then finished with an

interlocking rubberised matting walkway pad to

protect the waterproof membrane below. The

waterproof membrane is an ideal alternative to

felt and other traditional waterproofing

materials that offers 100% waterproofing over

a lifespan of more than 50 years.

Steve Greaves, Group Head of Sales at

PermaGroup, said: “This was a challenging but

exciting project to be involved in. Transferring

samples between Guy’s Hospital and the lab at

St Thomas’ Hospital can take more than half

an hour by road, but by drone samples can be

delivered in under two minutes, so this is a

significant development for the hospital and

patients.

“We initially cleared a portion of the previous

green roof to ensure the existing roof covering

was not compromised, and then laid Elevate

PermaRoof Commercial provided the specification

and products for the ground-breaking project.

EPDM 1.52mm on recovery boards. Testing

weather conditions and working on a busy

hospital site meant we faced logistical

challenges, but all agreed timelines were met

thanks to the team’s hard work. It’s always a

pleasure to work with the CK Group Services

team, and we’re looking forward to continuing

to work together.”

Steve Price, managing director at CK Group

Services, said: “It was crucial that this project

ran smoothly given the drone transportation

will potentially make such a huge difference to

patients’ lives, so we needed to use products

we knew we could trust, would be easy to

install, and will stand the test of time.

Thorough specification was key to the success

of this, and a relatively small but effective

roofing project will now have a considerable

positive impact on the lives of patients, which

is a fantastic result for everyone involved.”

The new drone landing strip at Guy's Hospital.

FEBRUARY 2025 TC 39

Fixings & Fasteners

THE IMPORTANCE OF ACCURATE

FASTENER TESTING

Brian Mack, Technical Business Development Manager at EJOT UK, explains the depth of

testing that is undertaken by EJOT to produce fasteners that roofing and cladding

contractors can depend on…

If you are involved in designing and installing

metal roofing and cladding, you may be

familiar with the best practice checks that are

required on-site to test that the recommended

fasteners are installed correctly. These include

seal testing using a vacuum tester to check that

the washer is correctly set to provide water and

airtightness.

Long before the fasteners get to site, however, we

have to determine whether the fastener design

and the materials from which it is manufactured

are fit for purpose and allow a secure attachment

to be achieved. The testing needed to

confirm this largely goes on under

the radar – after all it should be

a given that the fasteners we

are using on site will do

exactly what they say on the

tin, so to speak.

But in an era of supply chain

traceability and where the clarity of

product performance matters more than

ever, many EJOT customers are taking a greater

interest in understanding what makes a good

quality, reliable fastener.

Checking the metals we’re fastening into

A thorough knowledge of materials science is

crucial to being able to check that the metals

used throughout building envelopes are what they

are supposed to be according to their technical

datasheets. So, before we can consider the

strength of a fastener, we must first test the other

metals and that is something that our Technical

Manager, Jon Knaggs focuses on.

Above: The EJOT UK Applitec Team assesses the physical properties of the fasteners and the

substrates in which they are being used. Left: EJOT’s AI integrated video extensometer measures

strain and local displacement for exact testing of stress versus strain in materials.

There are common types of

metals used within buildings.

These are chiefly galvanised

steels, which are referred to as light

section steel or cold rolled steel, and hot

rolled steels known as heavy section. Heavy

section steels are not galvanised as a rule, but the

categorisation is not that clear cut. For example,

depending on where the building is and its usage,

such as a swimming pool environment, further

galvanised protection may be required to heavy

section steel and similar additions can also further

galvanise light section steel. Variations can

originate at the steel mill due to processing and or

due to ranges of alloying compositions for a given

structural grade. All these things can have an

impact on the mechanical properties and quality

of the material that comes out the other side.

Whilst steel and aluminium alloys used in

construction are very well controlled and

documented in terms of production and

maintenance of minimum strength properties, we

must continuously test to check for variability.

This is one of the things we can do at our Applitec

Centre, EJOT UK’s R&D laboratory, thanks to the

world-class equipment and technology we have

invested in.

Shear testing beyond the norm

Testing of tensile properties such as yield strength,

ultimate tensile strength and toughness, however,

are just one dimension to the technical team’s

work. Another key area is cold formed connection

shear testing, which is important for fasteners

used in roofing and cladding to ensure they can

resist the various loads they are subjected to.

40 TC FEBRUARY 2025

Within the EJOT Applitec Centre we have advanced

equipment purpose-designed to conduct shear

testing of fasteners to a high degree of accuracy.

This includes being able to determine the

thickness of the coating on galvanised sections, a

crucial factor in characterising the mechanical

performance of fastenings.

Measuring the thickness of plating allows EJOT to

apply reduction factors based on the actual

thickness of steel used in the connection. Plating

thickness and material composition can each be

established using a laboratory grade XRF (X-Ray

fluorescence) machine. This machine fires X-

Rays at the target specimen, dislodging electrons,

resulting in a ‘fingerprint’ energy release, each of

which is specific to chemical elements.

To conduct the shear test, we fix the two metals

together, load them into our tensometer and pull

them apart. But because we’ve gone to such

lengths to assess the metal characteristics

beforehand, the results from the shear test are

extremely reliable. We look at various ‘failure

modes’ including bearing failure, which is

elongation of the holes, net section resistance,

and tilt of the fastener – if this is 10° or more,

that’s a failure.

Confirming the strength of materials is one of the

ways EJOT takes a holistic approach to providing

evidence of the fastener’s performance. European

Technical Assessments (ETAs) are key to this

process because of the valuable performance

data they – and their associated EADs (European

Assessment Documents) – contain. We

complement this through our extensive testing

capabilities and other internationally recognised

standards, and ultimately we are able to clarify

the data for additional customer assurance.

We always have to think not just about the

fastener, but what our customers are doing with

it, and identify what the differences are between

the performance criteria published in the ETA and

the information that an engineer actually wants.

This may require testing in a different way to get

the required data, particularly in projects where

there is something slightly more unusual.

Above: Automated torque testing is valuable because it

accumulates data according to controlled installation speed

and specified torque settings.

“Before we can

consider the strength

of a fastener, we must

first test the other

metals”

Utilising advanced technology to provide

unrivalled insights

One of the key reasons why Jon and the team can

provide such detailed reports is due to the quality of

the equipment available within the Applitec Centre.

EJOT UK continuously invests to give the technical

team the tools to do their work to industry-leading

standards, and that was the rationale for

commissioning an AI integrated video extensometer

to measure strain and local displacement.

This enables the exact testing of stress versus

strain in materials. It also validates Young’s

modulus, toughness, brittleness or ductility of

materials, which is important because a material

which is too brittle may indicate the potential for

sudden failure.

Accelerated environmental testing is also

undertaken. This includes a continuous neutral

salt spray test chamber plus other equipment,

which supports EJOT’s research and development

programme, particularly at the early stages of

researching new coatings. Two UV testing

chambers allow the team to artificially degrade

polymers and elastomers by simulating conditions

caused by natural sunlight, rain and dew.

Cyclic fatigue and pullover testing is also

conducted, as is measuring installation torque. This

is important when defining relationships between

torque and clamp force and establishing a

coefficient of friction, which can be of value when

researching new coatings and new ways of applying

coatings. This can also help to make sure that the

user experience (of the installer) is maintained.

How our testing expertise benefits

customers

Whilst many larger systems manufacturers will

have the resources to conduct their own testing,

many people involved at all stages of the building

envelope supply chain will not. That means EJOT

offers a service to help architects, structural

engineers and contractors meet performance

targets and deliver high quality buildings.

Being able to confirm that a fastener will work

when it gets to site is also more consistent with a

system approach, demonstrating that the products

and fasteners have been tested to work together,

rather than us focusing only on component design.

This can be really beneficial for installers who

may feel more supported from a technical

perspective, particularly when they are tasked

with sourcing different components from different

suppliers and may not have the evidence to

establish which fasteners are most suitable.

Not only does it help to provide installers with a full

system which is better placed to guarantee quality

and performance, it also aligns with competence

objectives across the construction industry by

confirming a fastener’s suitability, providing it is

deployed correctly, for anyone involved in design

and installation of these systems.

Contact EJOT UK

www.ejot.co.uk

FEBRUARY 2025 TC 41

Facade Systems

KEEPING CLADDING SIMPLE

‘Ergonomic design’ and ‘cladding contractors’ are perhaps not terms that often go together.

However, Derek McDougal, Commercial Manager at MSP Facades, believes building

systems can be designed with safety and installers in mind...

Understandably, modern cladding

systems prioritise non-flammability,

safety and aesthetics as key

product characteristics. However, building

product designers are starting to look at the

practicalities of installation from the

contractor’s perspective, and that is

certainly the case when our team

set about designing a

new, solid metal

cladding system for

the UK.

Granted, fire safety,

aesthetics and

sustainability are the

three big pillars when

it comes to product

design, but we think that the practicalities of

installation should also be considered within the

design process, as this can have important

implications for on-site safety, speed of

installation and meeting project deadlines.

Take, for example, MetSkin, which was launched in

the UK in 2024. Before considering the design, we

undertook a total review of the current market. Here,

we realised that most hook-on cassette systems on

the market used their own bespoke support rails.

These all used remarkably substantial pieces of

metal to fix to a substrate, adding to the weight and

cost of this hidden, yet vital, substructure.

Simplify and standardise

These aluminium extrusions can be quite chunky

as they have to accommodate whatever hook is

offered to them. Most system manufacturers use

their own bespoke extrusion, which locks in

customers – but it also adds in cost and

complexity. Our thinking was to make something

Images: MetSkin: right: The panel

joint designs on MetSkin have been

developed to minimise water

ingress. Left: Illustration of the hook

on system close up.

more standardised. Hence, we

wanted to create the same basic

support structure that could be used

across all three of our different

cladding systems, be it hook-on, plank or tray.

We wanted to simplify things and decided to use

a standard L or T rail for our hook-on system.

This is quite unusual, but it created a more

homogenous system that was also much more

readily available. In our experience, many

projects are put back due to the poor availability

of specific components, and we wanted to

minimise this danger for our product.

As part of the design process, we worked hard to

ensure that our panels could be used with a wider

variety of support systems as the use of standard

extrusions means that availability will not be a

problem.

Benefits to contractors

Lighter framing has obvious advantages to

contractors in terms of both cost and weight.

Taking out unnecessary bulk means that framing

installation is that bit easier on site.

We also considered the hook system on the

panels, which is a finer detail that does not

often get considered. Most existing products

on the market use two separate hooks that

need to be fitted independently. We took the

step of designing MetSkin’s to have two

together, which speeds up installation and

saves time for the installer.

Contractors fitting a standard row

of panels at the same height can

set two hooks at the same time, as

opposed to doing two separately.

So, in practice, you’re fixing a pair

of hooks in one installation with

our system.

Another small – but important – detail with our

system concerns the angle of installation of the

hooks. While others on the market are fitted

sideways, ours has been designed to be installed

straight on to the rail (from the front). This makes

it easier to install on-site.

Because of the hook, it fits onto a flat surface as

opposed to a bespoke extrusion. In theory, thanks

to its design, it could be fitted onto any flat

surface such as a concrete wall, a batten, ceiling

– which gives you a very narrow cavity. This

creates an array of design possibilities.

MetSkin has already been installed on several

projects across the UK and the response from

contractors has been very positive. While it

certainly ticks the box in terms of safety, cost and

aesthetics, it is also gaining credibility among

contractors due to its universal framing system

and ease of installation.

Contact MSP Facades

www.mspcladding.co.uk

42 TC FEBRUARY 2025

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Skills & Workforce

SHAPING ROOFING AND

CLADDING’S FUTURE WORKFORCE

Carlton Jones, Director of the MCRMA, looks at the current state of the UK construction

industry’s skills shortage and highlights how two of its members are taking control of their

future by providing apprenticeships.

Barely a week goes by without the

UK’s construction skills shortage

making the headlines. Although this

long-standing issue is regularly cited as a

barrier to industry growth and a factor that

stands in the way of change, more recent

concern is that it could compromise

government ambitions to deliver major

infrastructure projects or meet

increased housebuilding

targets. And that could have

serious economic

implications.

The scale of the issue is

illustrated by the CITB’s labour

market intelligence report “Construction Network:

Focusing on the Skills Construction Needs”

published in May 2024. It reported that the UK

construction industry needs to attract the

equivalent of 50,300 extra workers per year to

meet expected levels of work over the next five

years. This is an increase from its 2023 figure of

45,000.

In addition, this survey also revealed that almost

a third (31%) of construction employers said that

finding suitably skilled staff was their key

challenge.

Despite this, the opportunities being created for

young people to enter the industry could actually

be declining year-on-year. According to a report

by construction data analysts BCIS, who

assessed data from the Department for

Education, there was a fall in the number of

apprenticeships in recent years in subjects linked

to construction, planning and the built

cannot be alleviated by individual

companies alone, there are businesses

throughout the roofing and cladding

industry who are taking greater control of

their future labour resources by providing

apprenticeships.

Amongst these are MCRMA member

companies, one of which is Kalzip. The UK

division of the international manufacturer

Apprentices undergoing practical training. Images and supplier of tailored metal solutions for

courtesy of SPV Special Projects

building envelopes has been providing

environment. In 2018/19, there apprenticeships for more than five years.

were 9,876 apprenticeships in the

According to its Special Projects Manager, Adrian

construction sector, but by 2023/24

Whitefoot, having apprentices as part of its team

that had dropped to 7,653.

has always had a positive impact on their business.

Construction is, of course, a very broad sector, so

Another member company benefiting from

some trades will be facing more challenges than

providing apprenticeships is further along the

others. But for the building envelope sector, we

supply chain, primarily involved in the installation

know from member feedback that skills shortages

of metal cladding and roofing. SPV Special

are a major concern.

Projects is a long standing provider of

It is not only an issue in site-based roles,

apprenticeships having recognised many years

however, which is often the impression given ago that the construction skills shortage would be

when the ‘construction skills shortage’ is talked persistent.

about. The MCRMA is uniquely positioned to see

how the issue is affecting companies right along SPV Special Projects partnered with Juniper

the metal building envelope supply chain. And it Training in 2019 to offer a construction pathway

is clear that all disciplines are impacted in some course for 16 to 18-year-olds and this has now

way, including areas such as system and

developed to the delivery of three Trailblazer

component manufacturing, design and specialist standards in roofing. Apprentices currently make

consulting. So, attracting young people to pursue up 10 per cent of its workforce. In the last three

careers in all areas of the building supply chain is years, the company has supported 12

vital.

apprentices to complete their Level 2

qualifications and become qualified roofers, with

How MCRMA members are taking control some also recently completing the Level 3

Whilst it is acknowledged that the skills shortage qualification in leadership and management.


44 TC FEBRUARY 2025

Skills & Workforce


The partnership has been a great success

according to Kate Whatley, Commercial Director of

SPV, as it has ensured a pipeline of future talent

for their business as well as adding so much

value to the industry and local community. The

project has also collaborated all areas of the

industry, from training providers, to contractors

and manufacturers, to federations, with fantastic

support ranging from material donations to

commitments to taking on apprentices.

The outcome for SPV has been that it has taken

on 12 apprentices during this period, all of whom

have continually developed their skills and

continue to be excellent assets to the industry.

Maintaining a focus on apprenticeships

It is important to recognise that the perception of

apprenticeships is not entirely positive and some

businesses believe there are obvious barriers to

expanding the number of opportunities available

– or providing apprenticeships at all. But the

scale of the skills shortage is such that the

industry must continue to find ways to provide

more apprenticeships as part of developing

tomorrow’s workforce.

The CITB is certainly helping from a funding

perspective. It is urging construction companies

to accelerate the number of apprenticeship starts

by claiming CITB apprenticeship grants. In the

period from April 2023 through to March 2025,

the CITB is investing nearly £150m into grants,

which should help drive up apprenticeship start

numbers.

The MCRMA will continue to support members

who offer apprenticeships, as well as those who

are looking at providing them. Whether that is

through our training courses, CPDs or guidance

documents, or simply using our network to help

businesses join the dots, the association has an

important role to play in facilitating more

apprenticeships in the metal building envelope

sector.

Contact MCRMA

www.mcrma.co.uk

Kalzip: a manufacturer’s perspective

Adrian Whitefoot, Special Projects Manager, explained: “We operate in quite a

niche market, but as a well-established business we recognise the value of

encouraging young people to consider a career in our market. And they offer a

refreshing perspective in many respects, especially in terms of how readily they apply

new skills and technology that is going to be the norm for them.

“In our experience, the apprentices in our team are very adaptable and willing to learn, and they

are not afraid to ask questions to challenge us on why we do what we do. That helps us to review

and scrutinise our approach to everything, which is important to continuously develop as a

business.

“We’ve seen how happy apprentices are to work across different departments, which is why we

ensure they have the opportunity to get involved with training, installation, design, estimating, site

inspections, guarantees and more.

“One of our apprentices, Sam, has been with Kalzip for over four years and he has a development

plan going forward which will ensure he gains experience in other disciplines including product

testing, such as fire and acoustic testing”

“They are not afraid to ask questions to

challenge us on why we do what we do”

SPV Special Projects: an installer’s perspective

Kate Whatley, Commercial Director of SPV Special Projects, explained:

“Apprentices bring fresh ideas, new approaches to challenges and they

embrace new technologies very effectively. And by investing in providing the

training they need and dedicating the necessary resources to properly support them, the

benefits we have experienced already are only going to increase as we look to future-proof our

labour resources as much as possible.

“We are passionate about training the next generation of our workforce because it is so important

to the future success of our business. Apprenticeships have been instrumental in our goal of

developing a loyal, sustainable workforce, built around our core values of honesty, expertise, safety,

respect, value, people and integrity.

“The training programmes we’ve developed as part of our support for apprentices are also

benefiting the industry more broadly, as they have helped shape the external training courses we

now provide. We offer these through our SPV Training Solutions division, which has a training centre

supporting over 100 students. Our training specialists also work with the MCRMA to deliver its

respected three-day foundation course and our training centre now supports over 100 students.

“Ultimately, I believe that apprentices bring enthusiasm, energy and fresh ideas to a business to

help contribute to its long term development and success. That’s why we invest heavily in our

apprentices, who have become a big part of our business.”

46 TC FEBRUARY 2025

Cladding & Facades Updates

SIDERISE OFFERS 2-HOUR RATED VERSION OF RH25

Siderise RH Rainscreen Horizontal Cavity

Barriers are used to protect building

façades around the world.

To meet the growing industry demand for fire

resistance performance that goes beyond

requirements, the passive fire protection

manufacturer has launched a new 2-hour rated

version of the product, suitable for air gaps up

to 25mm.

The RH Rainscreen Horizontal Cavity Barrier

has been developed to meet the complex

requirements of ventilated cladding systems.

The Lamella stone wool barrier includes an

integral strip of intumescent material along the

leading edge which, when exposed to

temperatures > 130°C, exfoliates to close the

residual gap and prevent the spread of fire

within the time required by the relevant test

standard and detailed in our certification. This

latest version of the product achieves 120

minutes Integrity (E) and

Insulation (I) when tested

to ASFP TGD19

(prEN1364-6) ‘Fire

Resistance Test of Open

State Cavity Barriers’

following the strict furnace

controls set by BS EN

1363-1:2020. This

performance has been

independently assessed

and is IFC Certified (IFCC

1712).

As a core product, RH Cavity

Barrier has also been put

through EOTA TR 024 ‘Type X’

accelerated age testing to confirm its longterm

durability. This is the most rigorous

category available, replicating

exposure to rain, UV, high

temperatures, and frost and

thaw cycles. This testing has

proven it has a 60-year design

life.

All Siderise products are also

backed by its industryleading

technical

‘wrapper’, designed to

support the passive fire safety

of projects from initial design to

handover with a range of

services for design advice,

training, and inspection.

www.siderise.com

AIM MAKES IT EASIER FOR INSTALLERS

Significant investment in product development

and testing for its Open State Cavity Barrier

(OSCB) and new Wall Cavity Barrier (Red

Edition) ranges has enhanced their suitability

for rainscreen cladding systems, says AIM –

Acoustic & Insulation Manufacturing.

Open state cavity barriers and full fill cavity barriers

are crucial to fire safety within rainscreen cladding

on medium and high-rise buildings. Together they

can achieve compartmentation within the void

created by the rainscreen cladding. This then

provides an effective barrier to the passage of hot

smoke and fire behind the cladding system. The

OSCB is installed horizontally to permit free flowing

ventilation through the cavity in a vertical plane and

the wall cavity barrier is fitted vertically to complete

compartment lines.

AIM’s six OSCBs allow the ventilation necessary

within the wall construction to prevent problems of

condensation allowing free airflow and drainage

with either a 25mm or 44mm air gap. They can fill

voids up to 425mm (or greater in particular

circumstances). In the event of a fire, heat activates

the OSCBs intumescent strip which expands quickly

to close the cavity fully. They offer either a 60, 90 or

120-minute performance for both integrity and

insulation confirmed by testing in accordance with

ASFP Technical Guidance Document 19 and to the

general principles of BS EN 1363-1:2020.

For use in cavity voids up to 600mm, AIM’s new

Wall Cavity Barrier (Red Edition) range is available

cut to size or in slab form. Available in three

thicknesses, 75mm, 100mm and 125mm, they

prevent the passage of heat, flame and smoke

within the cavity for 30, 60 or 120-minute fire rating

periods tested to BS EN 1366-4:2021. This rating

makes these wall cavity barriers suitable for

medium to high rise buildings.

Both the AIM OSCB and Wall Cavity Barrier (Red

Edition) products have third party certification

issued by IFC Certification Ltd.

“The wide scope of test evidence we now have for

the use of our OSCB and Wall Cavity Barrier (Red

Edition) ranges gives us a compelling fire barrier

package for rainscreen cladding,” explained Ian

Exall, AIM’s Commercial Director.

“With new technical literature covering the use of

these two products together to achieve

compartmentation in external cladding, we aim to

make specification and installation more

straightforward for specifiers, system providers and

installers.”

AIM’s OSCBs and Wall Cavity Barrier (Red

Edition) ranges are suitable for both new build

rainscreen projects and remediation work.

https://www.aimlimited.co.uk/cladding/

48 TC FEBRUARY 2025

FREEFOAM ADDS TO OFFERING

Freefoam Building Products, a leading

manufacturer of PVC building products, has

announced the launch of its latest product –

the Agate Grey Single Shiplap PVC Cladding.

This new addition to Freefoam’s existing Single

Shiplap cladding range offers architects,

developers, PVC suppliers, installers and

homeowners a contemporary yet timeless design

solution.

Agate Grey has become a popular shade for

window, door and roofline replacements. A

delicate blend of light green and soft grey that can

give a home a fresh and light appearance.

Freefoam have introduced this new option in

response to the growing trend for muted, subtle

exterior colours and to provide a stylish

alternative to traditional darker wood colour

cladding options.

Agate Grey is already an established foiled finish

option in Freefoam’s fascia and soffit range. The

introduction of the same shade in the cladding

range offers the perfect solution to any home

refurbishment project, allowing homeowners to

create a truly coordinated make over, matching

cladding to windows, doors, fascia and soffit.

Agate Grey cladding is suitable on a wide variety

of house styles, whether enhancing the charm of

a rustic country property or adding a modern edge

to an urban home. It’s a good choice for

properties built from light sandstone brick, but

also works well with many other types of

materials.

The Single Shiplap profile provides a clean,

sleek finish, while the durable PVC material

ensures longevity, low maintenance, and

weather resistance. The 150mm board is

particularly suitable for smaller external areas

such as dormer extensions and panels between

The Agate Grey Single Shiplap Cladding is now available to

order from Freefoam’s network of stockists across the UK.

ground and first floor.

Aidan Harte, CEO, commented: “We are excited to

introduce Agate Grey as part of our Shiplap

cladding range. The demand for high-quality, lowmaintenance,

and aesthetically pleasing external

cladding products continues to grow, and we

believe this new addition will offer our customers

a perfect solution for both new build and

renovation projects.”

www.freefoam.com

SNAP TO IT WITH PROCTOR A1

The A. Proctor Group has introduced a

score and snap sheathing board to its

range of facade solutions.

Used in conjunction with the highly regarded

and well-established Wraptite external air

barrier, the Proctor A1 Cement Board can help

specifiers and contractors move more towards

a system solution.

While suitable for all buildings, the throughwall

fire testing carried out featuring Proctor

A1 Cement Board means it can be used with

Wraptite to support compliance with fire safety

requirements for relevant buildings.

“As a cementitious product, Proctor A1 Cement

Board is automatically classified as noncombustible,”

said Will Jones, Head of

Business Development at the A. Proctor Group.

“Through-wall testing has confirmed the sheathing

board’s compatibility with our Wraptite membrane,

delivering a result of 120 minutes without integrity

failure. Customers can therefore feel assured when

choosing a fully-adhered external air barrier and

vapour permeable membrane.”

There are further benefits from the compatibility

with Wraptite. As the membrane offers a W1

classification for water hold out, there is no need

to use tapes and sealants on the Proctor A1

Cement Board to provide airtightness and

temporary weather protection.

Key to the development of Proctor A1 Cement

Board was the desire to offer the best possible allround

solution. As a result, it combines the benefits

of traditional fibre cement boards with desirable

qualities of newer gypsum sheathing boards that

have gained acceptance in the marketplace.

“Fibre cement boards tend to be heavy and

difficult to cut on site,” explained Lewis

Stanley, Business Development Manager (High

Rise & Facades). “Proctor A1 Cement Board is

a lightweight board for easier handling, and it

is score and snap to make cutting and

installation easier.”

As with all products offered by the A. Proctor

Group, Proctor A1 Cement Board is backed up

by comprehensive technical support, plus onsite

support including all complementary

fixings and accessories. To find out more visit

www.proctorgroup.com

FEBRUARY 2025 TC 49

Roof Tube: Video Content

PRESS PLAY ON QUALITY CONTENT

FOR YOUR SECTOR...

Roof Tube is the new platform for digital content from the leading players in your sector.

Easily accessible on any device, Roof Tube is packed full of and regularly updated with

practical, informative and entertaining video content, including how-to’s; project and

product focuses; installation advice; training and webinars; plus interviews and opinions

from those operating throughout the roofing, cladding and associated sectors.

In our latest look behind

the scenes at EJOT UK’s Applitec

Centre, we meet Dylan Roe, a

Technical Advisor at EJOT UK,

who specialises in product design

developments

Take a look at The Trail, a

contemporary barn-style new-build

home which has utilised Catnic

Urban standing seam roofing and

cladding to stunning effect

E

TUBE

PRACTICAL VIDEOS

INSTALLATION ADVICE

STEP BY STEP GUIDANCE

THE ONLINE

COMMUNITY FOR

ROOFING AND

CLADDING

INDUSTRY

50 TC FEBRUARY 2025

ESSENTIAL READING FOR ROOFING, CLADDING & INSULATION CONTRACTORS

As TaperedPlus celebrates

its 10th anniversary, cofounders

Aman Chahal &

Rob Vass look back on its

growth and development

over the years, and plans

for the future

With plans

underway for this year’s

Roofing Cladding &

Insulation Expo, take a

look at last year’s event

which took place at

the NEC Birmingham in

October...

So head over to www.roof-tube.co.uk to view all these videos and so much more, or

if you’d like to make the most of your digital content, contact Andy on 01892 730 890 to

put your company and products in front of your potential customers.

FIND US AT WWW.ROOF-TUBE.CO.UK

ESSENTIAL READING FOR ROOFING, CLADDING & INSULATION CONTRACTORS

FEBRUARY 2025TC 51

Knauf Insulation Tech Talk

INSULATING TIMBER

FRAME WALLS WITH

MINERAL WOOL

Bradley Hirst, Technical Services Manager at

Knauf Insulation, explains all.

Timber frames are an increasingly popular

approach to external walls for several

reasons. Aside from potentially saving costs

and reducing the embodied carbon of the

building, timber frame walls generally provide

better levels of thermal performance than

masonry walls of comparable thickness.

Mineral wool insulation is highly suitable for this

application, not least because it complements many

of the reasons for using timber frame walls, as well

as being easy to install correctly. Here are four

reasons to use mineral wool in timber frame walls:

1Improved fire safety Firstly, mineral

wool is ideal for applications where fire

safety is a requirement or a concern. The

2017 Grenfell tragedy has heightened

awareness of fire safety issues and increased

demand for non-combustible insulation.

Insurers, local authorities, and customers want

assurance that the insulation will not contribute

to a fire, regardless of the building’s height or

use.

Glass mineral wool products, such as

FrameTherm Roll 32, have the best possible

Euroclass reaction to fire classification of A1 –

meaning they will not contribute to the spread of

fire. As non-combustibility policies for all types of

buildings become more widespread, this

additional assurance will be increasingly

welcome.

2Lowering embodied carbon Timber frame

walls are often chosen for projects where

sustainability is a priority as they typically

have lower embodied carbon when compared

with masonry walls. Embodied carbon – the

To ensure compliance with Building Regulations and

Approved Document E (Resistance to sound), you will need

to use insulating materials that absorb sound, such as

mineral wool.

emissions generated outside of operational

processes – makes up as much as half of a

building’s lifetime emissions. For projects where

minimising environmental impact is a key goal,

glass mineral wool is a suitable choice as it has

the lowest levels of embodied carbon of any

mainstream insulation material in the UK.

3Acoustic insulation One disadvantage of

timber frame walls is that the lower mass

compared to masonry walls means that

they do not absorb sound as effectively. To ensure

compliance with Building Regulations and

Approved Document E (Resistance to sound), you

will need to use insulating materials that absorb

sound, such as mineral wool.

There is a misconception that only rock mineral

wool is suitable for this application, but glass

mineral wool performs just as well in noise

reduction and is more suitable in some

applications. Insulating a timber frame wall with

glass mineral wool allows you to deliver thermal

and acoustic performance.

4Ease of installation Timber frame walls

are relatively fast to construct and are

often prefabricated offsite to further speed

up the process. For this reason, it’s prudent to

use insulation that is easy and fast to install

correctly. Mineral wool is easy to cut to size and

can often be supplied at the correct size for

standard stud widths.

Unlike rigid boards, mineral wool insulation

doesn’t require taping. Its flexibility means it will

conform to any minor irregularities on the surface

of the timber studs and the fibres will ‘knit’

together at abutting edges, minimising air gaps

and maximising performance.

Aligned advantages

Mineral wool is an ideal insulation solution for

timber frame walls, offering fire safety, lower

embodied carbon, acoustic performance and ease

of correct installation. Its properties enhance the

advantages of timber frame construction and, by

combining these benefits, it helps create safe,

sustainable, and high-performance buildings.

Contact Knauf Insulation

www.knaufinsulation.co.uk

Knauf Insulation UK & Ireland

Bradley Hirst.

“Insurers, local

authorities, and

customers want

assurance that the

insulation will not

contribute to a fire,

regardless of the

building’s height or

use”

52 TC FEBRUARY 2025

HOT MELT COOKER HIRE

GAS HEATED

Thermostatically controlled, air-jacketed mixers

available in 2 sizes:

• 1.5 drum, 110 volt, caster mounted with lifting points

• 3 drum, 110 volt, caster mounted with lifting points

For further information

or a hire quotation call

01858 412 100

Email: sales@cookerhire.com

www.cookerhire.com

ELECTRIC HEATED

• 1.5 drum, silent-running with 415 volt

3 phase 32 amps (load 20KW)

• For sites that prohibit liquid propane gas

Fully serviced prior to delivery. Operator training available.

JOIN US AT

THE GRO PAVILION

F78

Comment: Planning Reform

‘DON’T LET NEW HOMES DISTRACT

FROM SUPPORTING THOSE WE’VE

ALREADY GOT’

When people look back and reflect on Keir Starmer’s Labour government, there’s no

doubt that the ambitious target of 1.5 million homes will stand as one of the key pillars

by which it is judged. However, while building new homes is essential to addressing the

planning crisis, Derek Horrocks, owner of retrofit decarbonisation provider Sustainable

Building Services UK Ltd, believes that we must not overlook another critical factor when

it comes to meeting the housing crisis: decarbonisation of existing stock.

In the first six months since winning the

election, it’s clear that Labour has been

putting housing at the cornerstone of its plans.

The UK currently sits in a large housing deficit,

which in turn is impacting the economy, people’s

ability to get on the property ladder, and

availability of much-needed affordable or social

homes. When considering this, it’s not a huge

surprise to see high housing targets – now set at

370,000 new homes annually.

While some have questioned the achievability of

this target, the government that campaigned with

a manifesto titled ‘change’ has wasted no time in

living up to this statement. Among its first actions

post-election saw a flurry of announcements,

promises, and plans – including the

announcement of plans for a new National

Planning Policy Framework (NPPF).

This step was taken to provide strategic direction

in overhauling the UK’s planning system –

something that was seen as a considerable

obstacle to progressing and expanding the

country’s economy. Following more than 10,000

responses and extensive engagement with the

industry, the changes have been revealed and

fleshed out – and naturally being critiqued by

some and celebrated by others.

While it’s reassuring seeing the government

making strides in providing new stock, it’s

Derek Horrocks.

“Some of the focus must stay on our existing

housing stock; otherwise, once the new homes

are finally built, we risk creating a new problem –

a property divide”

important that, with new-build homes taking

centre stage in this discussion, we don’t lose

focus on the work to be done on our existing

housing stock. Bringing these existing homes up

to standard – particularly when it comes to

energy efficiency – can align with the visions for

new homes, working side-by-side to tackle the

housing shortages reported across national media

every day.

It’s also important that the focus on new homes

does not create a new divide in terms of the

quality of living conditions. Improving the energy

efficiency of existing homes not only tackles the

housing shortage, but also other wider crises

people face – including physical and mental

wellbeing, and fuel poverty. Simply put, it means

that comfortable, warm, safe and healthy living

environments and affordable energy bills are

shared across everyone in any kind of home – not

confined to those in newer builds.

Though brilliant progress has been made in

recent years installing retrofit decarbonisation

measures in UK homes to bring them up to at

least EPC rating C, there is still a journey ahead

54 TC FEBRUARY 2025

An SHDF Wave 1 funded project for

Futures Housing in the East Midlands.

of us. Momentum is continuing to be promising,

with the ongoing commitment to the Warm

Homes: Social Housing Fund (previously the

Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund) and Warm

Homes: Local Authority Grant – along with

additional funding announced in last year’s

Autumn Budget.

Moreover, similar steps are starting to be taken

as the privately owned market is waking up to the

benefits of retrofit decarbonisation measures, and

as more funding streams, grants, and accessible

avenues become more known to them. This wider

understanding in the private market will be key to

overcoming one of the larger obstacles for the

sector – cutting through the noise and

understanding what is possible and how. Making

up the majority of homes in the UK, it’s vital we

engage with this part of our housing stock also in

our effort toward preventing climate change.

It’s clear that the government understands the

private sector’s expertise and delivery potential –

but just like for new homes, continued

collaboration is not just preferred, but essential.

The government has outlined this all working

towards a mission of making sure people have

“One key aim is to

prioritise the

decarbonisation of the

UK’s current social

housing and all private

rental stock as soon as

possible”

affordable, safe, decent, and comfortable homes.

That’s the same mission we should all be on with

decarbonising housing.

One key aim is to prioritise the decarbonisation of

the UK’s current social housing and all private

rental stock as soon as possible, and with targets

set by government to achieve a minimum rating

of EPC ‘C’ rating by 2030, through installing

energy efficient, microgeneration and clean heat

upgrades to homes.

While certainly beneficial toward climate change,

the impact we’re able to make in one home

contributes massively to their wellbeing in

multiple ways. Better energy efficiency can not

only prevent health hazards like damp spreading

but can also lower energy bills and provide a

greater overall comfort. Put together, we’re

making considerable progress against helping

keep these families healthier – financially,

physically, mentally, and socially.

Most importantly, we have that strong

understanding of the difference good quality

housing can have on people’s lives – tackling crises

such as the ongoing health and wellbeing crisis,

cost of living crisis, and energy affordability crisis.

So, amid the exciting headlines around new

homes, and among the discourse around

deliverability, it’s crucial we don't become

distracted and take our foot off the pedal

elsewhere. We need to keep building on the

already strong momentum – making sure work to

decarbonise and retrofit existing homes works in

tandem with building new ones to meet the

requirements of every local area and community.

Some of the focus must stay on our existing

housing stock; otherwise, once the new homes

are finally built, we risk creating a new problem –

a property divide.

Contact Sustainable Building Services UK Ltd.

www.sustainablebuildinguk.com

Sustainable Building Services (UK) Ltd

FEBRUARY 2025 TC 55

Updates

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

‘HOTTEST YEAR ON RECORD’: ACTIS CALLS FOR ACTION

With the announcement that 2024 was the

hottest year on record, insulation specialist

Actis is calling on construction colleagues to

follow its lead in striving to be as sustainable

as possible.

Latest data, released by the European

Copernicus climate service, reveals that last

year was not only the hottest, but also the first

to pass the 1.5C global warming threshold, a

situation described by UN chief António

Guterres as “climate breakdown.”

Climate scientists say humans still have

control over the future climate, explaining that

sharp reductions in greenhouse emissions can

lessen the consequences of warming.

Insulation specialist Actis, who says its Hybrid

range and two-in-one Eolis HC are noted for

their sustainable credentials, has stated the

company is determined to

lead the way in minimising

the negative impact of

construction materials

manufactured across the

continent, with a multipronged

approach to

reducing energy use.

Actis says its zero-waste policy and the 100%

recyclability of all its products has enabled its

Hybris insulation to become the only reflective

insulation in Europe to earn international

Cradle to Cradle C2C Certified Bronze

Certification.

The manufacturer says few raw materials and

fewer energy resources used during production

means carbon emissions produced

manufacturing all five Actis products are very

low compared with those produced by other

insulation products, at

less than 2kg per sq m of

CO 2 .

And its ‘doing more with

less’ video examines its

approach to sustainability.

Actis UK and Ireland Sales Director Mark

Cooper said: "This latest data confirms what

we have known for a long time – that we need

to take action to slow the speed of climate

change. More and more specifiers are

appreciating that our range of insulation

solutions offer a quick, clean and easy way to

create a thermally efficient building, thus

reducing the need to burn fuel. And our own

production processes are also designed to

minimise our impact on the environment.”

www.insulation-actis.com

SBS COMPLETES RETROFIT UPGRADE

Sustainable Building Services (UK) Ltd (SBS) has

successfully completed its most recent retrofit

project in Oldham, Greater Manchester. With

work delivered for Onward Homes Housing

Association, the decarbonisation upgrades to 47

homes has improved the homes to EPC C or

above.

Set across two streets, the terraced properties

were built in the early 1900s and feature solid

wall designs. As a result, they exhibit relatively

poor thermal performance, leaving those residing

with a problem that could only be solved

sustainably through decarbonisation upgrades. To

address this, Onward Homes commissioned SBS

to deliver the multi-measure decarbonisation

retrofit project, which secured funding under the

government’s Social Housing Decarbonisation

Fund Wave 2 grant.

This was a flagship scheme for Onward Homes

with seamless delivery achieved since

commencing in March 2024. Upgrades to each

property included ventilation, external wall

insulation to rear walls, internal insulation to the

front of homes, door undercuts, and loft top ups.

Together, with replacement windows and doors in

20 properties and new boilers and heating

systems in eight properties, the overall energy

rating has been improved to EPC C or above.

More than 6,000 of the region’s social homes are

receiving upgrades totalling £113m, after GMCA

secured almost £45m grant funding from the first

two waves of the Social Housing Decarbonisation

Fund, with a further £68m in match funding

provided by local partners as well.

Ian Jones, Regional Director at SBS, said: “We’re

really pleased with the results of this scheme –

especially with the measures taken to keep the

property facades the same and in keeping with

the surrounding 1900s style.

Properties in Oldham receiving the life-changing upgrades.

“Though we had to adjust our initial timeline of

activities to make room for the changes needed to

help improve the overall condition of each

property, this allowed us to be agile and focus on

delivering much needed decarbonisation

measures supporting every property to meet an

EPC band C rating or above.

“Working so closely with Onward Homes allowed

us to effectively liaise with residents to ensure

that disruption was kept to a minimum and home

energy improvements were maximised –

ultimately ensuring that no home was left cold or

damp, genuinely making a difference to peoples

living conditions.”

www.sustainablebuildinguk.com

56 TC FEBRUARY 2025

Performance

protection

has arrived.

Preserve the performance you specify with

new Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab EE.

The tried-and-tested thermal and fire safety credentials

you expect, with an added water-repellent facing.

So when insulation is exposed, whether by design or

because site schedules have slipped, it remains protected

from the weather. And the performance you specify is

protected too.

It’s rainscreen insulation for the real world.

Specify Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab EE.

Power Tools

TAB OUT, POWER IN!

Cordless tools have become a staple for roofing, cladding and insulation contractors,

thanks to advancements in battery technology. As Jonathan Peters at HiKOKI Power

Tools explains, the arrival of tabless batteries is transforming performance yet again.

The move from corded to cordless tools has

reshaped the power tool market, with

cordless models now holding over 78% of

the UK market.

This shift has been driven by a range of benefits,

including improved safety (no risk of tripping over

cords), greater flexibility to work anywhere

without needing a power source and enhanced

portability, making cordless tools essential for

professionals. For installers, these tools are

invaluable when working in tight spaces, elevated

positions or outdoor areas where access to

electricity is limited.

The driving force behind the cordless revolution

has been the ongoing evolution of lithium-ion (Liion)

battery technology. Over the years, Li-ion

batteries have become more powerful, with higher

voltage capacities and shorter charging times.

There was a time when corded tools far

outweighed their cordless versions, but this is no

longer the case. Battery improvements have

allowed manufacturers to create cordless tools

that match or even exceed the performance of

“The improved

performance,

durability and

efficiency of

these batteries

allow

tradespeople

to work faster

and more

effectively, even

in challenging

environments”

corded alternatives. The batteries themselves

have also become smaller and lighter, delivering

more power in compact packages which make

them ideal for tradespeople who rely on portable,

lightweight equipment for extended periods.

But battery innovation hasn’t stopped and now

there’s a new battery that’s taking power tools to

the next level – the tabless battery. Originally

developed for electric vehicles, this innovative

battery design is making power

tools more

powerful,

efficient and

durable than

ever before,

with faster

charging times, improved energy transfer and

longer lifespans.

Tabless batteries are an advanced evolution of

the standard li-ion design. Traditional li-ion

batteries consist of cells with rolled-up layers of

positive and negative materials, separated by an

electrolyte. These layers are connected to the

battery’s circuit using small metal strips called

tabs, which transfer electrical current. While

effective, this design has its limitations. Tabs can

cause bottlenecks in current flow, leading to heat

build-up, reduced efficiency and slower charging

times.

In tabless batteries, this problem is eliminated.

Instead of relying on a single-tab connection, the

electrodes are connected continuously along their

entire length, creating thousands of smaller

pathways for current to flow. This innovative

structure drastically reduces electrical resistance

and evenly distributes heat, resulting in a more

efficient and reliable battery that can deliver

higher power outputs without

overheating.

Benefits

The arrival of tabless

batteries is having a

major impact on the

power tool market,

offering a host of

benefits. One of the

standout advantages is

improved performance.

Tabless batteries

provide consistent power

output, even during

demanding tasks.


58 TC FEBRUARY 2025

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Power Tools


In fact, heat management is a key benefit. In

standard Li-ion batteries, heat tends to build up

near the tabs, creating hotspots that degrade

performance over time and shorten the battery’s

lifespan. Tabless technology dissipates heat

evenly across the entire cell, preventing

overheating and extending the battery’s durability.

For professionals who rely on their tools, day in

and day out, this longer lifespan reduces the need

for frequent battery replacements, saving both

time and money.

Faster charging is another upgrade. Tabless

batteries can recharge more quickly than their

traditional counterparts because the even heat

distribution prevents localised overheating,

which often slows charging in standard designs.

For installers working on tight schedules, the

ability to quickly recharge batteries minimises

downtime and keeps projects moving efficiently.

HiKOKI’s tabless BSL3640MVT Multi Volt

Battery, for example, charges in just 40 minutes

when paired with the UC36YSL2 charger and

delivers up to 2,160 watts of power – 50%

“Whether it’s extended

runtime or faster

charging, tabless

batteries are

transforming the way

professionals

approach their work”

more than previous models.

Energy density is also significantly improved in

tabless batteries. This means they can store more

energy in the same physical size, resulting in

longer runtimes for power tools without increasing

weight. This translates to more time working

without needing to swap or recharge batteries.

For contractors, the introduction of tabless

batteries is set to redefine what cordless tools

can achieve. The improved performance,

durability and efficiency of these batteries allow

tradespeople to work faster and more effectively,

even in challenging environments.

The durability of tabless batteries also supports

sustainability goals within the industry. By lasting

longer, these batteries reduce waste and lower

the cost of replacement over time, aligning with

the growing focus on eco-friendly practices in

construction and installation sectors.

The arrival of tabless batteries marks a major

milestone in the evolution of power tools. By

overcoming the limitations of traditional lithiumion

batteries, they offer a more powerful, efficient

and reliable solution to meet the demands of

modern trade work.

Whether it’s extended runtime or faster charging,

tabless batteries are transforming the way

professionals approach their work. As this

technology becomes more widely adopted,

tradespeople can look forward to tools that will

help them to work even smarter, faster and more

sustainably.

Contact HiKOKI Power Tools

www.hikoki-powertools.co.uk

60 TC FEBRUARY 2025

18V LXT

CLIPPED HEAD NAILS,

L:50-90mm, D:2.9-3.3mm

& 58 NAIL CAPACITY

420+

18V LXT FRAMING NAILER: DBN900

Discover the expansive LXT 18V and 36V line-up.

The LXT range boasts a continuously growing selection of more than

420 products, offering solutions for a wide array of tasks. You can

recharge your 18V 3.0, 4.0, 5.0, and 6.0Ah batteries in just 22 to 55

minutes. Makita provides more than just power tools, explore our full

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

makitauk.com

Footwear

FIVE FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN

CHOOSING SAFETY FOOTWEAR

Selecting the right safety footwear is crucial for ensuring the safety, comfort and overall

wellbeing of you and your workforce. Clair Weston, Head of Marketing at uvex, shares

five key factors to consider...

1Ensure a proper fit for all workers:

Industrial footwear fits differently

compared to everyday shoes. This is due to

the materials used for durability and protection,

and the inclusion of safety features like toecaps.

Sizing can also vary between brands. A proper fit

for all employees, regardless of gender, is

essential. Traditionally, safety footwear has been

designed with a unisex approach, often neglecting

the specific anatomical differences between

men’s and women’s feet. Women typically have

narrower heels and wider forefeet than men, and

using unisex footwear can lead to an improper fit,

reduced comfort, and a higher risk of injuries.

Footwear designed explicitly for women provides

a better fit and more comfort, reducing the risk of

foot-related issues such as bunions, corns and

blisters. It also enhances safety by ensuring the

footwear stays securely in place, minimising the

risk of slips, trips, and falls. Employers should

offer a range of sizes and styles tailored to both

women and men to ensure every worker has the

appropriate protection and support.

If an employee has wide feet, don’t think sizing up

will help. Safety footwear from brands such as

uvex can be customised using insoles certified for

that brand and model. These insoles allow the

wearer to alter the dimensions inside the shoe for

a customised fit. With the footwear and the insole

working in tandem to support the foot and evenly

distribute body weight.

62 TC FEBRUARY 2025

2Prioritise comfort: Comfort is crucial,

especially for workers who spend long

hours on their feet in demanding

environments like construction sites or

manufacturing floors. Footwear that provides

adequate support, reduces fatigue, and prevents

discomfort is essential.

Comfortable safety footwear helps prevent

common foot problems such as plantar fasciitis,

sore feet, and blisters. Features like shockabsorbing

soles, cushioned insoles, and

ergonomic designs can reduce the impact on

joints and muscles, enhancing comfort

throughout the workday. For example, the uvex 3

safety boot has an ergonomic two-layer sole

made from polyurethane, providing excellent

cushioning and slip resistance. The uvex i-

PUREnrj technology enhances comfort by

returning the landing energy over the entire sole

unit back to the wearer. Often referred to as

‘rebound’ footwear, the absorption and

redistribution of energy helps reduce fatigue

supporting the musculoskeletal system.

When workers are comfortable, they are less

likely to suffer from fatigue and related injuries,

leading to improved productivity and job

satisfaction.

“Preventing water from

penetrating the

footwear is essential to

avoid discomfort and

foot health issues”

3Match footwear to workplace hazards:

Safety footwear must protect against

specific workplace risks. Key features to

consider include:

Slip resistance: For environments with a risk of

slipping, especially on wet or uneven surfaces,

footwear with a sharp self-cleaning tread pattern,

and a pronounced heel is crucial. This design

improves grip and stability, reducing slips and

falls.

Water resistance: Preventing water from

penetrating the footwear is essential to avoid

discomfort and foot health issues. Footwear with

an S3 rating or S6 / S7 rating under the new EN

ISO 20345 standard ensures water resistance,

keeping feet dry and comfortable. uvex’s

waterstop technology provides water resistance

that lasts four times longer than the standard,

ideal for wet environments.

“Comfort that supports

feet correctly reduces

fatigue and discomfort,

boosting productivity

and job satisfaction”

Impact and penetration protection: A sturdy

toe cap (steel or composite) and a penetrationresistant

midsole protect against falling objects

and sharp hazards. In high-risk environments,

additional metatarsal protection can enhance

safety for the top of the foot, like the Heckel

MACCROSSROAD 3.0 S3 HIGH META safety boot,

which features D3O technology for flexible yet

robust protection.

4Invest in quality for workforce

wellbeing: High-quality safety footwear is

not just about meeting standards; it’s

about safeguarding your workforce’s health and

wellbeing. Quality footwear offers several

benefits:

Reduced injury rates: Properly fitting,

comfortable footwear minimises foot-related

injuries, slips, trips, and falls, creating a safer

work environment.

“Workers increasingly

expect footwear that is

not only safe and

comfortable but also

environmentally

friendly and

aesthetically pleasing”

Enhanced comfort and productivity: Comfort

that supports feet correctly reduces fatigue and

discomfort, boosting productivity and job

satisfaction.

Improved employee morale: Providing footwear

that meets workers’ needs and prioritises comfort

shows that employers care about their

employees’ wellbeing, improving morale and

reducing turnover.

5Consider sustainability and style:

Modern safety footwear is evolving to meet

the growing demand for sustainability and

style. Workers increasingly expect footwear that is

not only safe and comfortable but also

environmentally friendly and aesthetically

pleasing. Using sustainable materials, such as

recycled PET bottles, helps to create products

that offer protection, comfort, and sustainability.

There is also an increasing number of safety

footwear styles suitable for vegans and

vegetarians. These are made from synthetic

materials and are also suitable for people allergic

to chrome.

Stylish safety footwear with contemporary

designs and lightweight materials encourages

workers to wear their safety shoes more

consistently, ensuring continuous protection

without sacrificing personal style.

Contact the UVEX Group

www.uvex-group.com/en/

uvex group

FEBRUARY 2025 TC 63

Vehicles

THREE OF THE BEST VANS FOR

TRADESPEOPLE

Customer demand for tradespeople has increased by 155% over the last five years. With

this surge in demand, the experts at Vansdirect share their best vans for new and

experienced tradies alike…

Ford Transit Custom – monthly from £265 p/m

Demand for skilled tradespeople has

surged by 155% over the past five years,

according to new research.

A recent study by Vansdirect, tracking ONS data

by profession, has revealed which trades are

increasingly sought after.

Electricians and plumbers are seeing a particular

increase in interest, with a 176% and 165%

uplift in demand respectively.

In light of these findings, Vansdirect is

encouraging tradespeople to reassess their

efficiencies and equipment to keep up with, and

capitalise on, this potential increase of work.

And as Vansdirect points out, if you’re a

tradesperson – new or experienced – your van is

more than just a vehicle; it’s an essential part of

your business.

That’s why the experts at Vansdirect have

identified three of the best work vans for UK

tradespeople, sharing how these vehicles could

make a big difference to both your productivity

and bottom line:

Ford Transit Custom

“When it comes to choosing a reliable van for

trade work, the Ford Transit Custom is a standout

thanks to its reputation for toughness,

Renault Trafic – monthly from £249 p/m

practicality, and adaptability. Whether you’re

transporting heavy tools, workers, or a

combination of both, this van has you covered

with its Van, Double Cab-in-Van, and Kombi

models.

“The Transit Custom also comes equipped with

plenty of technology and safety features to keep

you connected on the road. It features smart tech

like Active Park Assist to make tight spots easier,

and the FordPass Connect app to keep you

connected at all times.”

Renault Trafic

“On the other hand, the Renault Trafic excels in

flexibility, offering different configurations to suit

your work needs. It’s a great option for hauling as

it comes with racking and bulkhead hatches that

keep your gear secure while you work.

“Boasting a range of models with efficient and

powerful engines, along with smart driver

assistance features, the Trafic ensures that no

matter how challenging the road gets, you and

your crew stay safe.”

Citroen Dispatch

“For those prioritising fuel savings and city

navigation, the Citroen Dispatch provides a

compact yet flexible solution. The Moduwork

system allows you to carry long loads, while its

Citroen Dispatch - monthly from £245 p/m

roof racking offers extra storage. This means that

the Dispatch can handle smaller or more

challenging city jobs with ease, without

compromising on interior room.

“Available in both a fuel-efficient diesel range

and an electric e-Dispatch version for

congestion zone savings, the Dispatch is an

efficient mobile workspace for tradespeople on

the go.”

As a spokesperson from Vansdirect explained,

ultimately, the decision of which van to choose

will depend on your specific requirements and

budget: “When selecting a van, it’s easy to focus

solely on the load capacity. While that’s

important, it’s not the whole picture.

“For example, if you're doing a lot of city driving, a

compact model like a Citroen Dispatch might be a

better option due to its fuel efficiency and ease of

parking. On the other hand, if you’re frequently

covering long distances, consider vans with

added comfort features and better fuel economy,

such as the Ford Transit Custom and the Renault

Trafic.”

Find out more:

www.vansdirect.co.uk

www.vansdirect.co.uk/van-finance/

64 TC FEBRUARY 2025

Updates

HIKOKI’S BATTERY REDEMPTION

OFFER RUNS UNTIL MARCH 31ST

HiKOKI Power Tools is kicking off 2025 with an unbeatable offer for professional tradespeople. From

6th January to 31st March 2025, customers who purchase select HiKOKI 36V Multi Volt cordless tools

from approved UK/ROI dealers can get a free cutting-edge 36V/18V Multi Volt Tabless Li-Ion Battery

(4.0Ah/8.0Ah).

This exclusive deal means you can get your hands on HiKOKI’s latest battery innovation, the

BSL3640MVT Multi Volt Tabless Battery. With advanced tabless cell technology, the battery delivers up to

2,160 watts of power, 50% more than previous models. Designed to reduce internal resistance and heat,

the battery ensures superior performance, extended runtimes and faster charging, fully charging in just

40 minutes when paired with the UC36YSL2 charger. Built to withstand demanding job site conditions, its

impact-resistant design and rubber base provide durability for heavy-duty and precise tasks alike.

Choose from the versatile C3606DPAJVZ Plunge Saw Kit, the precise C3612DRAW4Z Compound Mitre

Saw, the durable C3610DRJW4Z Table Saw or the reliable EC36DAW4Z Compressor, and this promotion

will ensure your toolkit is powered for peak performance.

HiKOKI’s tabless battery is ideal for those who demand reliability and efficiency. Don’t miss out – claims

must be submitted within 28 days of purchase. For full terms and conditions, visit HiKOKI’s official

website. Equip yourself with the best this New Year and experience the future of power tools with HiKOKI!

www.hikoki-powertools.co.uk

CARHARTT’S CLASSIC FITS FOR MODERN SITES

As the cold weather kicks in, two additions to

the Carhartt Montana range will keep you

warm and comfortable whether you're

working hard on-site or tackling outdoor

adventures.

Built with durability, flexibility and warmth in

mind, the Montana Rugged Flex Relaxed Fit

Duck Insulated Jacket (106432) and Montana

Rugged Flex Relaxed Fit Duck Vest (106433)

combine rugged performance with essential

cold-weather protection.

The Montana Rugged Flex Insulated Jacket is

tough, comfortable and locks in warmth, even

on the chilliest days. Made from stretch soft

duck canvas and incorporating Carhartt’s

Rugged Flex technology, this jacket lets you

move easily and has a practical design that

includes plenty of storage, with four exterior

pockets and two internal ones, making it ideal

for keeping tools, devices or essentials within

easy reach. Rib-knit storm cuffs, bi-swing

pleats and a drop-tail hem keep you

comfortable all day, even when it’s freezing

outside.

If you like to layer up, the Montana

Rugged Flex Relaxed Fit Duck Vest

is the ultimate cold-weather

companion. Made from the same

durable stretch duck fabric and

quilted nylon insulation as the jacket,

the vest is sleeveless, providing unrestricted

arm movement while keeping your core warm.

A corduroy-lined collar and adjustable drop-tail

hem add extra coverage and comfort, while

multiple pockets, including interior secure

compartments, ensure you stay organised no

matter what the day holds.

Both the jacket and vest

combine Carhartt’s signature

rugged construction with modern

features that make them

indispensable for tradespeople and outdoor

enthusiasts alike. Designed for warmth,

flexibility and all-day wear, the Montana

Rugged Flex range ensures you’re ready for

anything this winter.

www.carhartt.com

FEBRUARY 2025 TC 65

Updates

NEW 40VMAX XGT ORBIT SANDERS

Makita has added six new orbit sanders to its XGT 40VMax range. Due to an innovative cable connection to the battery, the new cordless sanders offer

superior ease of use and manoeuvrability, as well as delivering the excellent levels of performance and runtimes that professionals demand.

The powerful additions to the range provide an ideal alternative to pneumatic sanders without the increased maintenance or the time-consuming management

of the compressor. The efficient brushless motor utilised by the new range of sanders reduces wasted energy to help deliver maximum power and extended

runtimes from each battery charge. The six XGT sanders all deliver between 6,000 and 10,000 orbits per minute with the variable speed control operated from

a conveniently placed dial on the side of the tool. The BO001CG and BO002CG are 5mm random orbit sanders with 125mm and 150mm sanding disc

diameters respectively, while the 125mm BO003CG and 150mm BO004CG have 3mm random sanding orbits. The BO005CG and BO006CG have 80 x 130 mm

square and 100 x 150 mm triangular sanding pads respectively, with a 3mm sanding orbit. One of the key advantages of these sanders is the battery is not

mounted directly on the tool. Instead, the power is supplied from the battery via a connector and cable. The 1.6 metre cable supplied as standard with the

sanders allows the battery to be easily clipped to the user’s belt or placed in a convenient location nearby. There is also the option of a five-metre cable to

provide even greater flexibility. This type of connection to the battery reduces the weight load on the user’s hand and keeps the overall height of the tool low to

make it easier and more comfortable to operate. Alternatively, for significantly extended run-times the new XGT sanders can be powered by the Makita

PDC1200 or PDC1500 portable power packs. These backpack-mounted power sources feature 33Ah and 43Ah batteries respectively and can be used with a

wide range of Makita’s twin 18V (36V) LXT and 40VMax XGT tools when fitted with the appropriate adaptor. The new sanders have two options for dust control

– an on-tool dust bag or a simple and easy connection to a dust extractor, which is essential when working on-site. The sanders have the Makita Auto-Start

Wireless System (AWS) technology built in. This connects the tool to compatible dust extractors via Bluetooth to run the dust extractor automatically when the

tool is in use, making dust management simpler. Kevin Brannigan, Marketing Manager at Makita, said: “The new 40VMax XGT sanders offer a simpler to use

alternative to pneumatic sanders that still provides the performance required for many of the toughest sanding

tasks. The innovative battery connection makes these sanders more manoeuvrable and comfortable to operate,

while the AWS technology helps ensure a safer working environment.”

www.makitauk.com

DAVE’S ‘NEW FAVOURITE ABRASIVE’

Saint-Gobain Abrasives’ latest innovation,

Norton RazorStar abrasive belts, have been

praised for their performance, longevity and

versatility by metalwork business owner Dave

Budd.

Dave, an experienced metalworker and

manager of an off-grid workshop where he

teaches courses on traditional metalworking

techniques, was keen to switch up his abrasive

products after his previous supplies

disintegrated during use.

Norton RazorStar belts feature shaped ceramic

grain for tough grinding applications. The

combination of sharp grains and a large

grinding aid helps reduce heat generation for

cool cutting and increased durability on

materials such as carbon steel, aluminium,

stainless steel and nickel alloys.

The RazorStar belts were recommended to

Dave by well-known Norton supplier, UK Tools

and Fasteners, who values product reliability

and cost-effectiveness for its customers.

In addition to running his business, Dave Budd

Handmade Tools, Dave teaches the craft of

traditional knife and axe making, so he knows

the importance of having the best equipment

on hand. After an impressive first use of his

new RazorStar belts, Dave is now calling the

product his ‘new favourite abrasive’, citing the

superior cutting speed, longer lifespan and

ability to generate less heat, even when

grinding at speed.

He commented: “The RazorStar belts and discs

are brilliant. The belts are something that I use

a lot, especially at 36 grit. Most of my grinding

is done on high carbon tool steel and a lot of

Above: Dave Budd.

the time in its hardened state. I’m very

impressed with the belts. They cut fast and

keep cutting well for longer than the ceramic

belts that I usually use.

“Not only was the longer useful lifespan

impressive, but the fact that they cut with less

heat generation on hardened steel is very

useful – it means that I haven’t had to change

to a fresh belt when grinding thick tools to an

edge, to avoid overheating the steel, or taking

forever over the process.”

www.nortonabrasives.com/en-gb/razorstar

66 TC FEBRUARY 2025

WE

SUPPLIERS

AND

SPECIFIERS

TOGETHER

BE PART OF FIT

•

NEC BIRMINGHAM 29 APRIL - 1 MAY 2025

THE UK’S NUMBER ONE TRADE SHOW FOR THE WINDOW,

DOOR, FLAT GLASS, HARDWARE, COMPONENTS & ROOFING

INDUSTRY.

fitshow.co.uk

years of

Fixfast

1975

1985

1995

2005

2015

2025

Innovative manufacturers.

F U T U R E F O C U S E D

Est. 1975.

W: fixfast.com

T: +44 (0) 1732 882387

E: sales@fixfast.com

February 2025

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