The Essential Building Product Review May-June 2011

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Contents4 news14 GALLeRY118 BUILDInGPRoDUCts40 GALLeRY244 oPInIon54 GALLeRY358 BUILDInGPRoJeCts

Front cover photograph supplied by Trend www.trend-vi.com/en - full story page 27

Inside cover photograph supplied by Solarluxwww.solarlux.co.uk - full story page 40

Some of the colour photography used in The Essential Building Product Review is provided and paid for by contributors. Whilst every effort is made by the publishers to ensure that the content of the articles is accurate, the publishers do not accept liability for errors that may appear in the publication.The Review is published quarterly, free of charge. Copies are otherwise available on request at cost of £5.00 per single issue including postage. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily the views of the publisher. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying or recording in any storage or retrieval system without the consent of the publisher.

Published by:Link2Media Building Publications Ltd

Editorial Office:Barn 3, Dunston Business Village,Stafford Road, Dunston, Stafford ST18 9AB

Tel: 01785 711591Fax: 0845 862 [email protected] www.link2media.co.uk

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NEWS NEWS

VeKAPLCCeLeBRAtesqUARteRofACentURYIntheUK

VEKA plc celebrates 25 years of manufacturing in the UK this year. In 1986 the VEKA Group set up the VEKA plc extrusion plant in Burnley, Lancashire with just 30 staff and a modest 30,000 square foot factory. 25 years on, the VEKA site now occupies 370,000 square feet and the company has earned the loyalty of hundreds of customers. VEKA has always stood at the forefront of environmental issues, from being the first ever systems company to establish a closed-loop recycling system, to the UK’s first ever BFRC ‘A’ Rated window, and in its 25th Anniversary year, VEKA has launched the Infinity suite of recycled profiles. As well as their highly acclaimed product range, one reason why VEKA has

retained such unrelenting customer loyalty is the marketing support that the company offers, according to Sales and Marketing Director, Colin Torley.

Enquiry No 3 www.ebpr.co.uk/card

KABADooRsYstemsChAnGesnAmetoGILGenDooRsYstems

Kaba Door Systems Limited are delighted to announce that they are now part of the Japanese company Nabtesco Corporation and will be known as Gilgen Door Systems UK Limited from 1st April 2011. The deal worth in excess of 240 million Swiss Francs (approximately £150m) includes Kaba Door Systems, Kaba Gilgen and all other entities of the Kaba Door Automation business unit across Europe and China. Peter Faerber, Managing Director said “I am very excited about this acquisition; it represents a positive step in the long-term development of our business, opening up opportunities in the USA and Asia. This merger also makes available the technological know-how of a multinational company active in a number of sophisticated business areas” The complementary characteristics of both companies, ensures that UK customers and suppliers can expect very little change, the legal entity having no impact on existing contracts. It’s a case of business as usual. Together with the newly acquired company, Nabtesco will turn over £1.1bn and employ 5000 people in 31 companies throughout South East Asia, USA and Europe. Market leaders, Nabtesco dominate 50% of the Japanese automatic door market and manufacture movement control equipment and components for high-precision instruments for transport, aviation and hydraulics together robots.

Enquiry No 1www.ebpr.co.uk/card

GILGEN DOOR SYSTEMS

NabtescoMember of the Group

CGIInteRnAtIonALstRenGthensteChnICALteAmsUPPoRtInGPYRoGUARDPRoDUCtRAnGeCGI International has expanded its technical support team for its Pyroguard range with the appointment of two new team members. By bringing on board Steven Farnan as Testing and Certification Engineer and Baudouin Ratouis as the latest recruit to the company’s high calibre Graduate Programme, CGI International aims to enhance its existing testing and certification protocols and provide increased market guidance on fire safety glazing and associated regulations to architects, specifiers, contractors and its supply chain partners. Having qualified with a First in Mechanical Engineering from Dublin University, Steven joins CGI International having gained commercial experience at a number of companies in Ireland. As a recruit to the Graduate Programme, Baudoin comes to CGI International initially on a six month placement, where he will gain the valuable frontline technical experience necessary to complete his Electrical and Mechanical Engineering degree.


tImBmettosUPPLYsUstAInABLeReDGRAnDIshARDwooDInexCLUsIVeUKDeALTimbmet the UK’s exclusive supplier of Red Grandis, a Pure Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) red hardwood, is to offer a legal and sustainable alternative to Sapele or Meranti timber. The

introduction of Red Grandis demonstrates how a new plantation-grown species with Pure FSC certification can be brought to the market with unique customer benefits in terms of sustainability, natural durability, ease of use and continuity of supply. A high-grade clear timber delivering consistency of colour, appearance, grain and workability, Red Grandis – or Eucalyptus grandis, to give it its generic name – is most often used in the production of internal mouldings and exterior cladding profiles, as well as within the window and door frame industry. It is easy to machine and shape, and because all lengths are identical, there is less waste and reduced production time, as well as a much better finish overall. Red Grandis is also available as a Timbmet Engineered Component (TECTM), offering proven strength and extraordinary efficiency.


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Plastic Extruders has totally revamped its range of Matting Guides to meet a demand from specifiers interested in different sectors. The new Guides are split into six types of application: Workplace (Slip Resistant); Workplace

(Anti-Fatigue); Barefoot and Wetside; Entrance Flooring Systems; Multi-Purpose Floor Coverings; Specialist Application Matting. The bite-sized, easy to read Guides are designed to provide full information about the selection and application of different matting solutions in a particular area and for a particular purpose. Each Guide has a pictorial graphic which uses ‘icons’ to show the core benefits of each matting within that range. In addition to information about all the different mattings, the Guides provide detailed information about such matters as colours, ancillaries, fitting and cleaning in order

to ensure that specifiers and customers obtain all the benefits from a their choice of product. www.plastexmatting.com


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Award-winning off-site construction specialist, Yorkon, has announced that it now recycles 91 per cent of waste generated in the manufacture of its steel-framed modular building system. Yorkon recycles 91 per cent of waste at its production centre in York, and the new materials used to manufacture Yorkon buildings now have a recycled content of 35 per cent, which ensures significantly lower levels of embodied energy. Yorkon is also committed to using building products in its modular schemes which are both low carbon and have low embodied energy. Waste management plans are also in place on every site where Yorkon is the principal contractor. The Yorkon off-site building system is a highly sustainable method of construction. In full-scale independent tests for air permeability, the Yorkon building system exceeds Building Regulations Part L 2010 requirements by up to 70 per cent with no adaptation to the standard system. www.yorkon.info


fenDoRBUCKstRenDAnDseesoUtPUtRIseFendor has bucked the economic trend to record a healthy 18 % increase in growth during 2010. Announcing the figures, managing director Chris Duffy said, “Since 2007 Fendor has invested heavily in both R&D and Marketing spend and this increased during 2010. We have aggressively targeted new market sectors specifically Healthcare this being highlighted by the introduction of several

new patent applications for that sector. European Design rights have been granted for the CleanVent® system and for the first time International PCT applications are in place. ‘’The results of this strategic initiative resulted in 18% growth in 2010 output over 2009 during a period of particularly difficult market conditions in the U.K.”.


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Architectural aluminium glazing specialist, Technal, has launched a new website for architects and specifiers. The site has a completely fresh design, with clear and simple navigation, to provide a fast and efficient specifiers’ guide to the technical features, advantages, architectural flexibility, and wide-ranging applications for Technal’s aluminium curtain walling, low rise glazing, window and door systems. www.technal.co.uk


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Wicona has launched a new website for its façade solutions and latest developments in glazing technology. The website is a valuable source of information for architects, contractors and major fabricators about different approaches to façade and roof design for more complex and bespoke projects. Part of Hydro Building Systems, Wicona is also the first façade specialist in the UK to offer a complete turnkey service for the building envelope. Its team work closely with architects and contractors on the development of highly engineered

façade designs, providing technical input and resources at every stage. Wicona also offers one of the most technically advanced and widely used unitised curtain walling systems. www.wicona.co.uk


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Ragip Balcioglu, left, managing director of Beko is pictured here with the Turkish Ambassador His Excellency Mr Ünal Çeviköz , centre and Group president and Arcelik CEO, Mr Levent Çakıroglu at a special event held recently to celebrate Beko’s 21st year in the UK.From the new kid on the block just 21 years ago, Beko has come of age as one of the UK’s leading suppliers of domestic appliances. Since it first appeared on the UK high street in 1991, the company has become a major consumer brand, has expanded into both the private housebuilding business and the public sector, and is fast becoming a major player in the growing market for built-in appliances.


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NEWS

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Alfa Laval has announced the appointment of Jerome Maguire as Sales Engineer for its complete product portfolio in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.Jerome is a qualified Mechanical Engineer with a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Queens University, Belfast, and, prior to joining Alfa Laval, worked for leading companies in the vacuum pump and compressed air fields, most recently as Sales Manager for Compair. Married with a teenage son, Jerome lives in Ballygowen in Northern Ireland and, outside of work, is a keen supporter of his local Rugby and soccer teams and also enjoys the occasional round of golf.


HP WorkstationsAutodesk and HP your Built in Engineering Edge

HP’s commitment to innovation and solutions excellence, along with Autodesk design software and the HP/Autodesk relationship, provides you with a significant engineering edge.

T: 01844 263750 E: [email protected] W: www.hpworkstations.co.uk

MobileThe HP EliteBook ‘W’ series mobile

workstations offer the enhanced security, ease of use and reliability inherent in HP mobile systems.

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and supremely accurate colour display helps enhance your productivity.

Whether you are after a system for the office or a mobile solution for when you are on the go HP workstations havethe solution for you.

Get the right tools for right now!To get a quote on a HP solution contact man and machine at:

Z SeriesHP Z Workstations are engineered

to optimize the way hardware and software components work together, delivering massive, whole-system computational power that helps maximize your productivity and

make 3D design and visualization faster and more efficient than

ever before.

HP-Z-Series-Press-ad-march-2011.indd 1 11/03/2011 14:47:48

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Portakabin, the UK’s leading modular building specialist, has achieved re-accreditation to ISO 14001 – the internationally-recognised standard for reducing impact on the environment. Portakabin has the reassurance of other independent accreditations for its modular buildings, which include ISO 9001 for quality assurance, Zurich, BBA, LABC, and CE approvals. It also has the highest possible rating from Dun and Bradstreet, which puts Portakabin in the top 15 per cent of all companies in the UK for financial stability. In addition to its strong credit performance and the quality of its products, Over the past four years, Portakabin has delivered 99.6 per cent of buildings on time and on budget, rising to an unprecedented 99.9 per cent in the last 12 months. www.portanews.co.uk


At-A-GLAnCeGUIDAnCeonInVeRteDRoofsYstemsReLeAseD

An insight into latest guidance relevant to inverted roof systems has been released by JPA Technical Literature Ltd to aid designers, specifiers and installers in their decision making. The summary – which has been made available by insulation manufacturer Dow Building Solutions – provides highlights of three key documents relevant to inverted roof design in one, easy to use guide: European Technical Approval Guidance 031 (ETAG 031), which helps ensure consistent standards of assessment of inverted roof systems, BBA Information Bulletin No. 4, which emphasises the need to adjust calculated U-values to take account of the cooling effect of rainwater, as well as the importance of correct drainage, and BBA

DataSheet No. 40/10, which describes the methodology to be adopted when analysing the results of thermal conductivity testing of insulation materials to determine a declared thermal conductivity value. www.styrofoam.co.uk


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MX Group, has launched a fresh new web site that brings its huge range of shower trays, of electric showers and accessories to life, at the click of a button. The ever growing selection of MX Electric Showers are all BEAB approved and come complete with a full service backup. Recently, MX has launched an ever growing range of Thermostatic Mixer Valves. These TMV2 and WRAS approved valves mean that MX has now become a very influential player within this market sector. www.mx-group.com



Keywood is modified timber from timber preservation and fire retardant specialists Arch Timber Protection. It has been developed to provide a building material with the widest range of possibilities and uses only natural biomass resins and Radiata Pine sustainable timbers. Keywood provides a versatile, durable and sustainable building material. It can be used both indoors or outdoors, either with or without a coating. The modification process imbues Keywood with improved dimensional stability and long term performance properties with a Durability Class which relates to a 60 year service life according to BS8417 for outdoor, above ground applications, such as decking, cladding, joinery and furniture. www.keywood.eu


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NEWS

mILLIKenUnVeILsVIsIonofthefUtUReAnDABoLDnewLooKMilliken & Company has unveiled the metamorphosis of its corporate identity, positioning itself to bring leadership to innovation around the globe and building on its successful 150-year company history.

As part of this new identity, a fresh new logo based on the signature of the company’s 70-year leader and former chairman, the late Mr Roger Milliken, has been revealed uniting each division of the global speciality chemicals,

floorcovering and performance materials manufacturer. The new logo is simple, playful and bold, and signals a continuing commitment to excellence, leadership, ethics and creativity. It also reinforces the message of the common vision that runs throughout all of the company’s divisions, including floorcoverings.

Wherever it appears the signature serves as a mark of commitment to the values that the late Roger Milliken believed in, it represents a clear indication of the highest levels of quality, environmental excellence and another step towards Milliken’s vision of the future.

The new corporate identity supports the overall goal to serve as a true design partner to the architectural and design community. Over the past 18 months, Milliken has created a variety of activities that support this vision including the launch of the designer-centric www.inspiredinspiring.com website, a state-of-the-art design centre at its US headquarters in Spartanburg, South Carolina, and continued new product launches that bring meaningful experiences to interior environments.

“We consider what our clients need and what they want, which goes far beyond creating exceptional products,” explains Alison Kitchingman, Marketing Communications Director, Milliken. “This philosophy allows us to provide inspiration for projects, insights on trends and access to patented technologies – all the tools that help designers and architects to be more successful. We aim to inspire as well as be inspired by what is around us.”

With a commitment to innovation and a renewed focus on a fresh approach to problem solving, the new identity represents part of an on-going evolution for Milliken and is the result of more than two years research and planning.www.millikenportfolio.com


For information call FREE on 00 800 0421 6144e: [email protected] f: 00 800 0262 3299 w: crlaurence.co.uk

Rapid 50% faster to install than traditional alternatives

Re-adjustableThe horizontal taper-loc design allows the system to

be adjusted, dismantled and re-set.

Reassured Meets the strictest building code requirements BS6180:1999 and

BS6399-1:1996.

The TAPER-LOC™ System is the simple way to install glass railings and balustrades*.

*For toughened/toughened laminated glass from 12mm-25.52mm thick

RapidRe-adjustable& Reassured...

Patented

Ready...

Set...

Done. BS 6180:1999 &BS 6399-1:1996

Conforms to


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Kaba Door Systems Limited are delighted to announce that they are now part of the Nabtesco group and will be known as Gilgen Door Systems UK Limited.

Automatic sliding, folding and swing doorsIndustrial roller shutter, sectional overhead and high speed doorsFire shutters and curtains24hr emergency repairsNationwide maintenance

Kaba Door Automation is now Gilgen Door Systems and is part of the Nabtesco Group

Gilgen Door Systems UK LimitedHalesfield 4, Telford, Shropshire, TF3 [email protected]: 0870 000 5252

LAIDLAwwInneRofwInneRsARChIteCtURALIRonmonGeRYsPeCIfICAtIonAwARDs

Laidlaw Solutions Limited once again featured prominently in the 2010/11 Architectural Ironmongery Specification Awards organised by the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers and the RIBA. The Rose Lodge project in Hebburn, Tyne and Wear was judged overall ‘Winner of Winners’ as well as ‘Best Public Sector Project’, products having been supplied from the specialist Orbis Anti-Ligature range. Laidlaw worked closely with award winning healthcare specifiers Medical Architecture (MAAP) in the fit-out of the £6.1m Specialist Care Centre which caters for adults with learning

disabilities. The company was also ‘Commended’ in the ‘Hospitality and Residential Buildings’ category for its work on ‘Bespoke Hotels’ Bermondsey Square project. The GAI / RIBA Specification Awards recognise the best projects, regardless of budget or scale, with each being made jointly to the architect and ironmongery provider.


NEWS



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sImPsonstRonG-tIeLAUnChesnewRAnGeofsteeLfIxInGssoLUtIons

Industry leader Simpson Strong-Tie has launched a new range of stainless steel fixings - a unique collection of cladding installation solutions featuring premium quality screws and nails, to join its extensive list of products. Suitable for use with all types of decking, cladding (timber and fiber cement) and even barn construction and marine installations, the screws feature unique point designs and thread profiles to make driving easier, whilst the nail heads have been designed to refract light to ensure that they blend with wood materials. The range is supported by new packaging and a brochure which also features the new Angle Bracket Connector (ABC), enabling vertical battens to be fixed directly to the supporting structure. www.strongtie.co.uk


sChUeCoLIft-sLIDInGDooRnowoffeReDwIththIn-fILmPVoPtIon

Schueco UK Ltd is now offering what it believes to be a unique product – its ASS 70.HI fully glazed, lift-sliding door with a ProSol TF thin-film photovoltaic option, enabling this top-of-the-range system to deliver exceptional thermal insulation, generate PV energy and provide solar shading/screening simultaneously. The Schueco ASS 70.HI is available in single, double or triple track configurations. The 70mm deep doors glide effortlessly on stainless steel tracks and the lift-slide action is facilitated by stylish ergonomic handles. With a low threshold height of only 48mm, leaf weights up to 300kg and security up to Class 2 EN V 1627, this door meets a wide range of specifications.Leaf widths and heights up to 3m are possible with this premium door, while class-leading ‘U’ values from 1.6 W/m2K with double-glazing, down to 1.3 W/m2K with triple-glazing, easily exceed Building Regulations.The launch of the ProSol TF option makes the Schueco ASS 70.HI sliding door even more versatile as it can now be included as an element of larger Building Integrated Photovoltaic projects incorporating façades, cladding and windows. Depending upon design requirements, Schueco’s amorphous silicon ProSol TF can be specified in opaque format for maximum output or in varying degrees of transparency, providing vision to the outside and soft shading to the inside. When equipped with ProSol TF, ASS 70.HI is a perfect example of Schueco’s Energy2 – Saving Energy, Generating Energy concept.


Few construction products that are ideally suited to Modern Methods of Construction can trace their heritage back further than Tremco illbruck’s Compriband high performance sealing tape, currently celebrating the 50th anniversary of winning a prestigious prize for innovation at an international technology show. Having originally been developed in the Netherlands by for the far less glamorous task of sealing large diameter concrete pipes, Compriband was officially launched to the wider world at the International Inventors Exhibition 1960 – staged at the Brussels venue which had been completed two years earlier for the World Expo. Despite being up against early developments from the world of aerospace and other electronics devices, Compriband scooped the coveted Medaille de Vermeil: recognising the impact that the product had made under the Tremco brand, being sold across Europe and North America for sealing windows, façade systems and other construction components.Since then, use of the product has grown steadily down the years, with different grades and thicknesses being made available to enable it to be used in such applications as sealing around window reveals, where its expansion takes up irregularities in the opening, or can accommodate subsequent settlement. Tremco illbruck’s Derek Reid comments: “Compriband in its different forms, is not relevant simply to Modern Methods of Construction because of its flexibility, but the fact that it remains breathable while forming a watertight and airtight seal is incredibly important to the UK and European guidelines on sealing the building envelope. “As they say in Canada, and on the Continent, “build tight, ventilate right”.Compriband may have been considered innovative 50 years ago, but it is still pushing the boundaries today: being totally relevant to the Passivhaus standard and Code for Sustainable Homes.”The range includes Compriband 600 which is used extensively in multi-storey developments, Compriband Timbemax, and Compriband Super; with the company’s technical advisory service available to ensure correct specification and installation.


NEWS NEWS

AnoRBItALAPPRoAChfRomosmo

As the glorious sun continues to shine, thoughts turn to outside spaces – many in need of an overhaul! To provide contractors with the means to capitalise on these opportunities, Osmo UK has introduced its Wood Orbiter, a new machine which can be used to clean and revitalise wooden flooring and decking. Osmo’s Wood Orbiter is a new intensive cleaner which is designed to be easy to handle. Contractor can use the Wood Orbiter to loosen and remove unsightly dirt from wooden exterior surfaces quickly and efficiently. Providing intensive cleaning for wooden decking, it removes the grey cells which will have built up over the winter months. Osmo recommends using the machine in conjunction with the company’s Wood Reviver “Power Gel” - a special liquid cleaning agent that will restore the natural character of the wood. The Wood Orbiter is also used for deep cleaning of wooden flooring. To achieve the best results, this should be used with Osmo Wash & Care, a water soluble concentrate for simple and basic cleaning and care. Osmo’s Wash & Care is particularly effective for removing stains, as well as everyday household dirt and wear and tear.


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PizzaExpress’s ‘Living Lab’ Restaurant in Richmond, Surrey features colourful high pressure laminates and solid surface materials from ABET LAMINATI. These have been used to stunning effect by Ab Rogers Design who was appointed to transform the restaurant into a ‘Living Lab’ combining experiential design, advanced developments in restaurant acoustics and a re-energised approach to display and service. In order to achieve the rich and vibrant atmosphere inspired by the traditional open food stalls found in Naples, ARD has used many different laminates, including brightly coloured gloss HR LAQ for counterfronts and ribbon seating booths, white Stratificato with a black and white striped core for tables and shelving and Pral solid surfacing for countertops and satellite stations. www.abetuk.comPhoto: John Short


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RoYALshAKesPeAReComPAnYoPensItsfIReDooRswIthPYRoGUARDPyroguard fire safety glazing has been installed at the Royal Shakespeare Company’s (RSC) new theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon. Specified by fit-out specialists, Swift Horsman, the much celebrated Royal Shakespeare Theatre has benefitted from high performance integrity and insulation Pyroguard EI glazing in fire doors and fire screens throughout the development. Installed by Pyroguard glazing partner, Moon Limited, Pyroguard EI was specified at 23mm and 15mm thicknesses to deliver 60/60 and 60/30 fire ratings respectively. Used as part of an internal fire door system from Harrington Fabrications, Pyroguard was required to deliver integrity and insulation performance for the slim vision panels, which were situated at each level entrance into the viewing tower staircase. Bill Harris, Swift Horsman, comments: “The challenge for this project was satisfying the building regulation requirements without compromising on the build schedule. Pyroguard met the necessary performance specification and was delivered to site as bespoke cut sizes in a short space of time.” Providing a barrier to fire and heat to allow safe passage and exit, Pyroguard EI is classified to EI 60 to EN 13501-2 and impact safety to EN12600 Class 1B1.

Available in a range of thicknesses to accommodate internal and external fire safety applications, Pyroguard has been approved for use with a number of framing methods. Supplied in stock sheets or as bespoke sizes to order, Pyroguard can be delivered to site at short notice. David Jolliffe, Managing Director, Pyroguard, explains: “We work closely with our partners in the supply chain to ensure the correct specification and installation of our fire safety glazing products. The RSC is a perfect example of how our hands-on technical support ensured the seamless delivery of this specialist element of the joinery package.”Pyroguard EI is part of a wider portfolio of fire safety glazing products manuafctured and supplied by CGI International. The complete Pyroguard range provides access to integrity only (E) as well as integrity plus radiation control (EW) products. Pyroguard is available through a nationwide network of stockists, to identify your nearest supplier please contact 01942 710720.


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PRODUCT NEWS

Tel. 0845 470 3000 Email. [email protected] Web. www.washroom.co.uk

Looking at washrooms in a different way

Established in 2001, Washroom Washroom has successfully built on its philosophy to design,manufacture and install high quality innovative washroom products, on time and within budget.During this time the company has developed a range of washroom cubicles, vanities, lockers andbenching together with a dedicated bespoke joinery service, that meets the changing demands

of markets as diverse as leisure, commercial, retail and education.

12052.11 WW CORPORATE ADVERT 2011 - L2M:Layout 1 21/4/11 17:21 Page 1

whIte&whIteLonDonoffeRssomUChmoRe…White & White London was created with one aim in mind…to provide a unique flooring company which embraces luxury floor design with an unrivalled level of customer service, from consultancy through to final installation. Supplying and installing an outstanding selection of wood, natural stone, porcelain, composite, carpet and soft flooring, White & White London provide flooring solutions to some of the most prestigious commercial, residential and leisure environments throughout the UK, Europe and America.Total customer satisfaction is White & White London’s reputation. The company’s team of sales and design professionals are all leaders in their respective fields, and have an impressive combined portfolio of previous projects including Harrods, Royal Festival Hall, Victoria & Albert Museum, The Ritz Hotel and Buckingham Palace. Their expertise and knowledge is evident when assisting clients from the initial consultancy, to sub-floor preparation and final installation by their own in-house team of fitters. Put simply, clients of White & White London will enjoy a seamless process, resulting in a unique flooring design to complement any location. White & White London’s stunning showroom has a relaxed ambience in which clients can view their distinguished range, with

personnel available to offer guidance and advice on the most suited floor coverings for each individual project.By being passionate about their work, and combining the unique experience of their team, White & White London are able to bring the best options in floor coverings. With a stunning product selection sourced from the world’s leading suppliers, results are exclusive flooring solutions that offer both quality and value together.For further information please contact White & White London on 01277 353499 or visit www.whiteandwhitelondon.com



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PRODUCT NEWS

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COMPAC, by utilising advanced production technologies, have taken the beauty, colours, and textures of stone and combined these and other key physical characteristics with quartz to produce what is probably the best kitchen or bathroom worksurface range on the market. This exciting new range has been manufactured using BIO resins from renewable organic material further underpinning a revolutionary commitment by COMPAC to meet its sustainable and environmentally friendly obligations. Investing heavily in R&D has enabled COMPAC to manufacture a material that improves on the already outstanding technical qualities of its existing QUARTZ worksurface range: exceptional hardness, resistance to abrasion, impact, acids and UV rays, and a material that is extremely easy to clean. The Nature Collection, a high performance quality product that is thought to be the most technically advanced quartz worksurface currently available, has been created with a perfect finish that lends elegance and beauty to worksurfaces for bathrooms and kitchens, floor coverings and cladding. Available in 7 beautiful colours, standard 3m lengths and a range of thicknesses, COMPAC’s Nature range can be easily fabricated, formatted and profiled to meet the most challenging of kitchen or bathroom design layouts.Not only does the Nature Collection offer a highly decorative product with depth of grain and uniformity of textures and colours but it is so resistant, stable and long-lasting that COMPAC are able to offer consumers a Lifetime Warranty.


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PROOFS AND INVOICE

Client

Description

Type Area

Stannah Lifts

Commercial Advert – EMW

Full page – H297 x W230 mm

Publication

Issue

S/O No.

Essential Building Product Review

May 2011

20186

Meet the family

www.stannahlifts.co.uk

Effortless movement around the store.Trolley travels too. Happy customers.More shopping. Happy retailers.What can a Stannah moving walkway do for you?

Passenger Escalators and Platform Goods and Lift Bespoke Lift ServiceLifts Moving Walkways Lifts Service Lifts Refurbishment Lifts and Repair

Project: Flagship ASDA store over three levels

Location: Andover, Hampshire

Developer: Dawnus Construction

Challenge: To keep the flow of customersmoving smoothly from a street level car park totwo retail floors above.

Solution: The supply and installation of fiveStannah moving walkways.

Call Stannah on 01264 3390900


PRODUCT NEWS

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PRODUCT NEWS

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KnAUfAmfCeILInGsACoUstICRAnGeIstheoneYoUneeD

Knauf AMF Ceilings now offers an enhanced Acoustic Range with the addition of new Thermatex Alpha ONE, Alpha HD and Thermatex Silence ceilings. The Knauf AMF Acoustic Range provides ceiling options that vary from acoustically reflective to highly absorbent, all with

the same visual appearance. The extensive range of options provide solutions to meet the most demanding of applications. The Thermatex Acoustic Range combines a variety of aesthetic, creative and acoustic properties in one ceiling range. All the different ceiling types have an identical smooth white appearance, providing the flexibility to change the acoustic performance of a space without compromising the visual appearance.


IDeALstAnDARD’snewCeRAmIxBLUeRAnGe

Ideal Standard International, the leading bathroom solutions provider, offers a new water and energy saving innovation, CeraMix Blue, created by award-winning design house Artefakt under its flagship brand Ideal Standard. This range has been created in line with its brand ethos “Inspired by Real Life”, reflecting a deep understanding of the personal and intimate role the bathroom plays. Continuously aiming to improve its products with regards to their impact on the environment, Ideal Standard CeraMix Blue represents a new era in water management taps. Following on the success of the earlier taps range - Ideal Standard Attitude - CeraMix Blue takes the eco-challenge one step further. Offering the most energy savings in the market this new range was designed for those seeking to reduce water and energy costs without compromising on aesthetics, functionality, increased safety and eco-consciousness.

Setting a new standard in water and energy savings The Ideal Standard CeraMix Blue range offers end-users savings of up to £376 per year. These savings are possible thanks to a new innovation in the internal design of the tap mixer and cartridge. Compared to an average tap, stagnant water in the spout is reduced by more than 80%, enabling the desired water temperature to be reached up to 90% faster than normal. As a result, CeraMix Blue offers a fantastic return on investment by enabling less water and energy to be consumed thereby lowering bills. All CeraMix Blue taps are certified with the highest WELL (Water Efficiency Labelling) ratings. WELL certification is only awarded to products demonstrating immediate and recognisable savings whilst meeting international standards.

Safety featuresThanks to the IdealPure technology, Ideal Standard CeraMix Blue has lead-free and nickel-free water carrying components on basin and kitchen mixers, for improved quality of the drinking water. This meets World Health Organisation guidelines, expected in 2013, which will recommend lower levels of hazardous metals in contact with drinking water. T: 01482 346461 www.ideal-standard.co.uk


sAPPhIRe’sosqAIsseRIoUsABoUtsAfetYSapphire Balustrades, the leading UK full service manufacturer and installer of premium balustrade systems, has developed OSQA (Onsite Safety & Quality Assurance), a unique scoring system for onsite health and safety reviews, quality and risk assessments. OSQA (pronounced ‘Oscar’) is based on a mutual review framework that Sapphire uses to assess its installers – and they use to assess Sapphire. A set of weighted Key Performance Indicators for each side covers everything from work quality, cost and documentation through to attitude, working methods and risk assessment – with health and safety carrying the highest weighting. Fitters who score highly earn bonuses to incentivise them to work to the highest standard all the time, while feedback on Sapphire’s performance is documented and improved. Sapphire believes everyone has the right to a safe,

secure workplace. Sapphire’s commitment to safety is also reflected in its factories - the number of accident free days in its Reading factory has greatly exceeded the previous record despite an increase in the number of workers. www.sapphirebalustrades.com


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JIS EUROPE of Haywards Heath has a new heated towel rail named THE ALFRISTON. The towel rail is manufactured in an elegant round section shape with nine horizontal rails giving an appearance of refined luxury, together with a stylish 90 degree angle on the top rail.The New ALFRISTON rail is 650mm high and 1000mm wide. It can be used in central heating, electric or dual fuel formats, which will allow the rail to be heated when the central heating is turned off.The ALFRISTON towel rail is manufactured in

100% stainless steel pressure tested to 12 Bar and is available in polished finish with brushed satin finish available to order making this radiator durable and hygienic and they come with a 25year guarantee.


mIomAKesAsPLAshIntatec is making a splash currently with Mio – a shower and tap range full of contrasts, with its solid, rectangular valve styling combined with an elegantly arcing fixed riser and the unexpected combination of black and highly polished chrome finishes. The Mio taps – like all Intatec’s taps – come with an eco-stop flow restrictor free of charge, making the taps Water Wise compliant as standard at no extra cost.www.intatec.co.uk


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SCHELL GmbH, leading suppliers of high quality bathroom hardware, has raised the crossbar in design by producing a range of four angle valves very competitively priced with subtly different styling to complement the taps in a basin or bath. All four are in a high quality chrome finish over a brass body and in up-to-the-minute styling. The variations lie in the conformation of the hand knob on the valve end and tThese new SCHELL valves provide the extra dimension of aesthetic appeal to their functionality.


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showeReDInsUCCess

Taplanes Showing Solutions are now the oldest British manufacturer of shower cubicles, minipods and ensuite pods. Using their own patented manufacturing techniques and materials, Taplanes are the only British company that can genuinely prove that they can meet a minimum 30 year life expectancy, if not in excess of 50 years.Taplanes have produced specialized equipment for private, military and government contracts for various applications which have involved highly specialized chemicals, plastics, electronics and robotic knowledge. Most of these contracts were completed under “Letters of Confidentiality” and “Secrecy” documentation. Taplanes manufacture

all their products using a specially formulated polypropylene material with a minimum thickness of 10/12mm. This sustainable material allows Taplanes to take their products back at the end of its life cycle, regrind it, re-thermoform it and then re-use it.Each bespoke construction does not use any substitute material for strength, under-carriage support or component fixing, nor does the

system carry any exposed sealant, grout or tiling which can be a costly, an on-going maintenance issue, and can also attract bacteria. The Taplanes material is tested and approved by an NHS test Laboratory as bacteria free and also totally inert. Their patented horizontal joint system is designed to prevent any capillary action allowing for the whole ensuite system to be taken in and out of the allotted room as many times as needed without invalidating the guarantee. The Taplanes unique design is a cost saving environmentally friendly solution, perfect for today’s economic climate. www.taplanes.net


AmICAIntRoDUCesoPtIGAs™

Leading Polish brand, Amica is delighted to have set a new standard with the introduction of OptiGas™. Amica’s OptiGas™ is an innovative gas burning system, which optimises gas usage by increasing heating efficiency and lowering gas consumption by as much as 12%. Developed by and unique to Amica, all of its 50cm and 60cm freestanding cookers with gas hobs are now equipped with the OptiGas™ system, with burners designed for direct and precise contact between the crown of the flames and the bottom of a pan, heating the pan and not the room, burning and wasting less gas while cooking is unaffected. Amica’s OptiGas™ burns less, optimising gas usage to help save money and care for the environment. Every cooking, refrigeration, dishwashing and laundry appliance in Amica’s portfolio is A rated or above for energy efficiency and comes with a highly saleable catalogue of features and functions as well as a decent profit margin, product support and the backing of a full two year guarantee for parts and labour. www.amica-international


PlayaExpress yourselfRelevant to today’s fashion and tomorrow’s trends.A design led branded range at affordable prices.

Ideal Standard

www.ideal-standard.co.uk

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Glasen, exclusively distributed in the UK by David Clouting, is an innovative interior film developed by LG to be laminated onto the back of a glass sheet to provide the ultimate high gloss finish - both in looks and surface performance.Utilising high pearl printing techniques to give stunning 3D effects, Glasen film is ideal for both domestic and commercial interior applications including: Splash backs, Kitchen and Bedroom doors, Flooring, Wall Panels, Work surfaces, Table tops, Headboards, Radiator covers, Hotel and Office reception areas and Bars and Restaurants.David Clouting offer a range of Glasen film designs such as Ash Gold (pictured) that will revolutionise how decorative glass can be used. Glasen is certified to act as a safety film, achieving European EN12600: 2003-04 Classification. www.davidclouting.co.uk


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GoLDfeVeR:theInImItABLeAPPeALof24CtGoLDmosAICThis season, there has been a resurgence of opulence and glamour in the home, with gold colour schemes making a brilliant return. Gold brings a touch of refinement, luxury and warmth to many interiors and amongst today’s glittering palette are metallic decorative paints, gold patterned wallcoverings, sequinned textiles, gilded lights and fittings, and golden finishes for bathrooms and living room furniture. But the original and still the most prized golden wall and floor covering is 24ct gold mosaic and, through its many precious tile collections, Trend of Italy offers the widest choice in this prestigious segment (see separate Gold Notes style sheet).

The techniques of fusing together glass and thin leaves of gold date back to Roman times and was regarded as mainly a medium for religious art, until the 19th century when Italian mosaicist Angelo Orsoni’s avant-garde techniques popularised it for interior decoration. Now owned by the Trend group and the only factory in Venice that manufactures glass mosaic with gold leaf, Orsoni’s original furnace still provides the authentic craftsmanship and artistry that lie behind the inimitable Trend gold collection.

Gold mosaic par excellence is seen in Trend’s distinctive Aureo 24 Carat line, offered in both yellow and white gold, smooth and corrugated textures, Modern and Traditional designs, and different finishes for floors and wallcoverings. Handcrafted in a centuries-old artisan process, these mosaic tiles are made by beating pure gold into a thin sheet, which is then sandwiched between two layers of glass. The thin upper layer or cartellina, either transparent or tinted, is typically 1mm thick and protects the delicate leaf, sometimes giving a coloured hue to the gold; the thicker support layer is usually around 4mm deep, adding strength and substance. These three elements are heated once again and fused into a single slab that is resistant to cracking and breaking, before being hand cut into individual tiles or tesserae.

Aureo gold mosaic tiles are available as standard in 1cm, 1.5cm or 2cm square formats, enabling mix and match combination with other Trend ranges, and can be made in larger or smaller sizes for particular projects. There is also an Aureo Collezione Lucio Orsoni, created by the latest talented member of the Orsoni family, which uses a hand-blown, tinted cartellina to produce provocative new 24ct gold colours, from acid green and copper, to titanium and violet. Prices for the regular Aureo range are from 65p to £1.10 per piece and for the Orsoni Collection are between 85p and £1.40 per piece.

Similarly creative expressions of gold and metallic colours can be found in Trend’s utterly distinctive Liberty collection, where designs like Topaz, Bronzite, Pearl and Diamond take the eye through extravagant golden, bronze and silver tones, adding the extra dimensions of texture and eccentric tile formats. Prices here are from £245 to £345 per square metre.

In contrast to gold blocked or metallic paper wallcoverings, Trend offers intricate and beautiful glass mosaics on a roll, in the shape of its exclusive Wallpaper collection, featuring elegant repeat patterns. Such classic designs as 24ct gold and white Luxurious 1, Rich 1 and Essential 2 are the perfect choice for large rooms, while white gold wallpaper themes like Essential 1 give the illusion of space in smaller interiors. These Aureo gold mosaic-accented themes cost between £624 and £726 per square metre. Other gold notes from Trend come from studio-designed Vitreo, Brillante, Shining, Aureo tile mixes and graduated shading blends, in the popular 2cm x 2cm tile size, as well as more intricate Lux, Sunshine, Aureo custom mixes in the smaller 1.5cm square format. Prices vary according to the proportion of precious gold Aureo tesserae in the particular design, starting from around £150 per square metre.

For a different interpretation of yellow and white golden tones, Trend’s latest Karma Mirage coloured glass tiles have a metallic epoxy finish applied to the reverse, replicating the warm tones of this precious metal and giving enormous depth of colour. These hand cut 2cm square mosaics, made from 75% post-consumer recycled glass, are priced at £436 per square metre.

Continuing the coloured glass theme, Glamour gold-effect mosaic tiles are extra deep at 1cm thick and are colour-fused, giving consistent depth of golden tone throughout, in a range of standard and custom formats. Ideal for dramatic floor and wall coverings, these tiles are priced around £345 per square metre. www.trend-vi.com/en


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New from leading kitchen worktops and bathroom finishes brand, Granite Transformations, are three innovative Trend Prestige designs, the only agglomerate or engineered stone products in the world to feature a veining pattern running through the surface.

Also new are two new Trend Q metallic tones, made with material normally used in computer chips, and three additions to the best-selling Trend R Italian granite range, reflecting this season’s fashionable earthen and desert tones. As with all Granite Transformations’ products, these eight new designs are covered by a lifetime warranty and can be installed over existing kitchen and bathroom surfaces, eliminating messy demolition and minimising disruption.

The 2011 Trend Prestige collection introduces three new colours, each with a unique veining effect fashioned from contrasting material. Nero Marquis is a midnight black quartz surface, enlivened with a subtle spider’s web of silver, grey and white strands,

created using recycled glass. Cape Cod Green is a cool misty green veined with brilliant copper, dusky brown and grey, a look that’s achieved with aventurina glass embedded with crystals of semi-precious metal.

While the fragments of fiery red and soft brown that float across Fire Beige are made from natural Italian granite. There is no price premium for the Prestige collection, although

extra material may be required for matching the veining pattern as it cascades over the edge strip. Uniquely, the metallic highlights on the two new Trend Q colours are both produced using semi-precious metals more commonly employed in the production of computer chips. Dark Steel is a deep, steel grey with flecks of silver, ideal for white cabinetry or those preferring darker tones.

For those wanting a hint of blue in the kitchen or bathroom, Blue Steel has bluish-grey undertones and flecks of metallic blue. Trend Q surfaces are manufactured from 95 per cent Italian quartz and a specially-formulated polyester, then cast into 3m long x 1.25m wide slimline, flexible slabs that comfortably outperform natural stone. Granite Transformations’ Trend R series is manufactured similarly from Italian granite, delivering the authentic look and feel of the natural material, combined with superior strength and technical properties. In the new Walker Gold granite surface, golden browns, coffee and shades of grey mingle together to form a rich mix of earthen colours and textures.

Mocha Real continues this theme with a jumble of copper, chocolatey brown, black and grey, for those who love rich colours. Whereas King Ivory goes to the other end of the brown spectrum, with cream, grey and copper tones set against desert sand. www.granitetransformations.co.uk


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fRomCoLUmnCAsInGstoCLADDInG–enCAsementhAsItIf it wasn’t for column casings and interior wall cladding solutions, building interiors would be considerably less attractive environments, yet these are both products that are often taken for granted by the building’s occupants. Very few people stand back to admire a laminated plywood column casing at a school or brushed stainless steel wall cladding in a prestige office building, yet they are key elements in interior design and integral to the aesthetics of countless building interiors.

For column casings, at least, their role has been transformed from being a purely functional device for concealing structural steelwork to one of visual and decorative importance. From their initial specification and use by a relatively small number of architects almost 25 years ago, column casings have become a key consideration in an immeasurable number of projects and are now widely used on buildings of all types. The demand for wider choice and increased aesthetics from architects, interior designers and specifiers have been key influences on Peterborough based casing and cladding company, Encasement, which has continued to expand its range during the past five years to become the most comprehensive available in the UK.

Other recent additions to the company’s interiors range, includes the innovative ‘Venda’ retail interior and display system and its ‘Vecta’ interior cladding solutions, with both products having already generated a significant amount of interest and new contracts, including the prestigious Carmine building in Paddington, London. While the new products have clearly been well received, it is for column casings that Encasement is perhaps best known and its extensive range not only includes pre-formed plywood casings, glass reinforced gypsum and compact laminate solutions for interior applications, but also aluminium, stainless steel and glass reinforced polymer (GRP) casings, for exterior projects due to their inherent weather resistance.

Interestingly, Encasement’s ‘Forma’ metal casings and ‘Polyma’ GRP range are also widely used in interior applications, where the scope of finishes available, particularly in the ‘Forma’ range, provides specifiers with an even greater scope of options and can be specified with diameters from 250mm up to 1000mm.

Recent projects, such as a prestige reception area at Merchant Square, West London, a new library extension at Ibstock Place School near Richmond and contracts at London’s Olympic handball arena and Heathrow Terminal 5, perfectly illustrate the versatility of Forma metal column casing solutions. For example, at Merchant Square, the casings are finished in brushed stainless steel and are 800mm diameter, while those used on the school library project are six metres high and integrate with a glass floor, stainless steel balustrade and glazed curtain walling.

Encasement’s ‘Circa’ and ‘Quadra’ ranges of pre-formed plywood column casings still provide specifiers and contractors with an unrivalled selection of finishes, which includes plain, laminated or real wood veneers. Also, these products are also available manufactured from FSC certified plywood to aid compliance with sustainability codes and environmental procurement policies. Circa column casings have also been used on another prestigious project in London, where a series of 300mm diameter column casings are installed in one of Europe’s tallest residential buildings, ‘The Landmark’ at Canary Wharf, which consists of two sleek towers with the tallest standing 140 metres high.

Encasement’s Managing Director, Martin Taylor, explained: “Column casing provide a perfect mix of practicality and aesthetics and we’ve taken a lot of care to ensure our range meets both of these key criteria while ensuring that we always remain competitive and deliver high quality products. The success we’ve had in the South East and London is reflected across the rest of the country too, all of which use different products from our range, underlining the versatility of our casing solutions.”

He added: “Our entire range has been configured to provide the widest possible choice as well as being easy to specify, which is why we offer next working day delivery as well as some very specialised solutions, such as the Metza range, which provides up to three hours fire protection for mezzanine floor columns. “The addition of the Vecta interior cladding and Venda dedicated retail interior display systems enhances our building interiors offer and allows specifiers to source a range of specialised interior finish products from a single company with high levels of expertise and experience in this sector.”

Encasement’s new ‘column casing solutions’ e-brochure is available for download from the company’s website and covers every product in the range as well as providing details on materials, sizes and finishes available alongside an extensive technical information section. www.encasement.co.uk


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Alfa Laval has developed a new portfolio of Eurovent-certified, commercial air coolers for duties in food preparation areas, chilled distribution depots, supermarkets, petrol stations, restaurants and the like. Called Optigo, the first units released under this name are the CS20 and CS30 air coolers. With an evaporation range of from +100 C to – 300 C both are ideal for general applications in small to medium size cooling and freezing rooms. The smart but, durable casing is aluminium coated with a thick epoxy coating to RAL 9003 for a long working life. Each unit is available from stock and is delivered with a comprehensive two-year guarantee.


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A major independent research study in the USA has concluded that water softeners are amongst the ‘very best’ household energy savers. The research findings back the energy saving claims made by the UK’s leading water softener manufacturer - Tapworks - over many years. This report highlights that by installing a Tapworks water softener, if you live in a hard water area of the you will not only be installing a carbon neutral appliance, you will also be “conservatively saving up to 20% a year on your energy bills.” The full report can be found at www.wqa.org/BattelleReport.


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SolarFlow from Alfa Laval is a tap water pre-heater designed to exploit energy from renewable sources such as solar panels, geothermal fields, heat pumps and even condensate recovery for domestic hot water production. SolarFlow was developed specifically to provide cost-effective domestic hot water to large structures Intended principally as a pre-heater, SolarFlow must be combined with a conventional tap water heat source which acts mostly as a top-up facility. In this way, the system prioritises the renewable energy source, keeping reliance on conventional energy to a minimum. Thanks to the fact that water in the primary tank is never heated by a boiler or electrical heater, the unit offers genuine energy savings. In addition, the configuration of the primary tank guarantees maximum energy delivery on demand. And the use of a primary tank instead of a secondary storage vessel ensures that the risk of Legionella and other bacteria developing is kept to a minimum.


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The ‘Whole House’ pumps from Salamander’s Right Pump range can supply the total water powering needs of all UK households with gravity fed systems. The RHP range can supply, toilets, baths and wash basins as well as just showers. Available in four models: the RHP50 (1.5 bar) can provide, conventional showers, whole house showers, toilets, wash-basins, baths and individual hot and cold taps. The RSP75 (2.0 bar), similar to the RHP50, but is also suitable for high resistance outlets such as multi-functional showers and showers with a massage function or champagne spray.The two remaining pumps, the RHP100 (3.0 bar) twin and the RHP140 (4.3 bar) twin have the same specifications as the previous Salamander pumps, but can also power showers with up to four body jets.


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Talon Manufacturing Ltd., has now produced a Swept Bend Guide for 10mmm pipe work. This white Polypropylene double pipe guide, measuring 145mm x 145mm, is designed to be used with two flexible 10 mm pipes, these are guided around in a swept bend configuration avoiding the kinking of the pipe work, ensuring a neat appearance is maintained throughout the bend and more importantly that the water flow is not restricted as it would be if a 90º elbow is used.


eLtAfAnsheLPKeePthestAGAheADoftheChAsInGPACKFans are a central component of an effective ventilation system in a commercial kitchen and The Stag Inn at Mentmore, in Buckinghamshire is an excellent example. Systemair Fans and Spares of Nottingham specified and supplied the installers of the ventilation system with an SPP 560 fan from the new PowerPlusDCV range with a pre-programmed Eltadrive E2 single to three-phase frequency inverter (along with the canopy size and ductwork layout required). Within a typical commercial kitchen environment, the main cooking extraction systems are subject to conditions normally between 40°C and 60°C at 95% relative humidity. Generally, ventilation systems also have high resistances against which a fan has to operate. The PowerPlusDCV (Demand Control Ventilation) range, has been primarily designed to accommodate these conditions and high-pressure requirements.


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The versatile EcoSave Gas Condensing boiler offers the highest levels of energy efficiency and provides one of the most economical and reliable combination boilers on the market. The EcoSave boiler has been designed to incorporate a stainless steel heat exchanger, two stage frost protection and in-built weather compensation. Other features include internal cabinet insulation which reduces heat loss and noise and due to the integral APS system extended flueing of up to 20 metres can be achieved. The boiler a SEDBUK A appliance and is one of the most efficient on the market. It can also be converted to LPG within minutes. The front-control panel has a user-friendly interface which makes it simple to adjust boiler temperature, hot water temperature and other settings. For the service engineer the annual maintenance has been made simple as all the servicing valves and filters are located on the external base of the boiler. A magnetic filter is also located within the boiler to assist with system protection. www.gascombi.co.uk


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You wouldn’t run your car on mucky oil, so why run a heating system on mucky water? Sentinel water treatment products are acknowledged as the best you can buy for heating systems and with TripleTech technology providing three different types of chemical technologies to penetrate and attack system scale and corrosion in X800 and three different heavy duty specialist corrosion inhibitors each targeting a specific metal type in X100 and most major boiler manufacturers recommending Sentinel products by name – using Sentinel could make the heating system up to 15% more effective. Saving money, reducing emissions and cutting down on maintenance – makes using Sentinel a highly cost effective thing to do. Go to www.sentinel-solutions.net for information.


Wilo’s new Stratos PICO and Wilo-Smart A small circulators are proving to be the stars of the Wilo range. The Wilo Stratos-PICO – the most energy efficient small pump you can buy, offering up to 90% energy savings over a standard pump - and the new Wilo-Smart A energy saving pump, offering up to 80% energy savings over a standard pump. Low efficiency, uncontrolled pumps will be banned in the EU from the end of 2012. From 2013, low efficiency and standard stand alone circulators will be banned from the marketplace. As of 2015 the minimum requirements will be tightened further and their scope extended to include boiler integrated circulators as well – those sold as part of a combi or system boiler set up.This regulation on circulators will shift the market towards the intelligent, high efficiency circulators that Wilo has been championing for years, capable of adjusting their performance to meet the specific needs of the heating system. www.wilo.co.uk


Less than 12 months since the launch of the innovative i-temp programmable radiator control (or PRC), Pegler Yorkshire announces three additions to the i-temp range. Designed to give users even more ways to control and personalise the system, these new products deliver enhanced simplicity while helping to further reduce heating costs in the home. i-temp forms part of the renowned Terrier range of heating products. The i-temp can be used to upgrade many types of TRV and by allowing the temperature to be controlled in each room of the house can deliver savings of up to 30% on heating bills, while delivering comfort required for every part of the home or work place. Now available as part of the i-temp portfolio is a remote control, an innovative USB programming stick complete with software and a ‘window contact’ that automatically and remotely adjusts your i-temp. All of the new products can be used on their own, or combined for the ultimate in home heating control and energy saving technology. www.pegleryorkshire.co.uk


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rainline sustainable rainwater systems in steel

Rainline – no matterwhat the colour, it willalways be greenIn Sweden they know a thing or two about manufacturing sustainable building products and their impact on the environment, so it’s not surprising

that Lindab’s Rainline carbon footprint is significantly lower than many of

the rainwater systems currently on the market.This combined with high performance,

quality and competitive pricing makes Rainline one of the most effective and ‘green’ solutions for the control of rain drainage on all types of buildings.

Manufactured from high quality, zinc coated part recycled galvanised steel; Rainline offers all the features you would expect from a system manufactured by one of Sweden’s leading companies.Available in a range of attractive high build polyester colours, the finish of which is guaranteed for 15 years, Rainline is also available in natural copper, Aluzinc and plaingalvanised.For an information pack contact us at the address below.

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Lindab Ltd • Building Products Division • Shenstone Trading Estate • Halesowen • West Midlands • B63 3XB

Telephone: +44 121 585 2780 • Facsimile: +44 121 585 2782 • Email: [email protected] • www.lindab.co.uk

Lindab Rainline Ad Review.indd 1 18/2/11 12:17:40


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Klober’s Solar Cable Outlet Kit creates a watertight and airtight seal around cables and enables them to be passed neatly through most concrete interlocking and plain roof tiles without risk of damage from abrasion or distortion. Its polypropylene sealing bar provides the perfect barrier against driving rain, having been fully wind-tunnel tested on pitches from 20°-50°. The kit can be used with up to 8 cables of 4 -8mm to connect PV-systems, sensors, aerials, security lights and cameras. The kit also provides the perfect means by which to retro-fit systems with ease. Using a universal base tile in conjunction with the Klober Sealing Collar, the Cable Outlet Kit is available in 3 colours to match most commonly used tiles.


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Klober Permo® sec is a CE certified, vapour permeable waterproofing barrier which is installed as a layer between copper, zinc, aluminium or stainless steel standing seam roof finishes and the supporting deck. It covers irregularities in the metal and prevents corrosion on the underside of the metal by enabling moisture to be channelled safely to the eaves. Suitable for roof pitches over 3°, the 5 layer fleece / foil membrane offers exceptional tensile strength and resistance to tearing and can be laid over either rigid insulation or timber boards. An acoustic value of 8db helps reduce transmission of noise through the structure such as that produced by heavy rainfall. It can be used on ventilated and unventilated metal roofs though an air barrier / vapour control layer such as Wallint® 50 is recommended on the warm side of the structure.


Neaco have launched a new Genesis range of high-performance balustrade, rails, access walkways and roof protection systems which are ideal for the urban and industrial landscape. Durable in the most demanding of environments, Genesis products are fully recyclable, corrosion-free, DDA compliant and environmentally friendly with a modular construction which requires no welding for assembly. Available as mill finished or coated, Genesis applications also provide fast installation with minimal energy consumption and disruption to site.“Genesis is ideally suited to the exacting demands of many industries and its extreme durability means a dramatic reduction in the carbon footprint related to construction and maintenance,” said Neaco’s managing director, Alan Green. “These systems serve all budgets with high-performance solutions that are designed for harsh environments, including water treatment works, chemical plants, rail and motorway infrastructures and factories. Genesis products are versatile and adaptable, strong and maintenance-free. Handrails are engineered for a smooth finish with tactile comfort and our aluminium open grille walkways are lightweight yet durable with high slip resistance for secure footing.”Other Neaco products include balconies, structural glass and adaptive bathroom facilities. www.neaco.co.uk


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GEZE UK, is launching a highly versatile, electromechanical swing door drive for internal doors, enabling barrier-free access for all. The flexible ECturn has been developed to provide a quiet, simple accessibility solution. With a modular structure, the ECturn can be used with a wide variety of control options and in combination with access control and building management systems. Additional safety sensors can be connected simply and quickly, so it can be tailored to meet the needs of a wide variety of users. To save energy, the ECturn offers a low energy setting as well as automatic and to make it even easier for users. Suitable for all types of mounting, it can be easily retrofitted into existing buildings and is the perfect choice for new builds where adaptability is important.


ALItheRm700:thenewPARALLeLoPenInGwInDowfRomsmARtAlitherm 700 is an innovative solution for enhanced natural ventilation. The system allows for a balanced, effective airflow whilst maintaining security and safety. Alitherm 700 is ideal for insertion into curtain wall facades in both low and high rise commercial buildings. Alitherm 700 can also fabricated using standard friction hinges be used to create side or top hung casement windows. The system is also suitable for use with chain-operators, operated either individually or as part of an integrated automated solution for building climate control. www.smartsystems.co.uk


ALUmInIUmRe-CYCLInG–AsUstAInABLesoLUtIon

Recognising the importance of the sustainability debate, Comar Architectural Aluminium Systems have the Comar 5P.i. ECO window system which offers the unique cradle-to-cradle properties of aluminium, as well as answering current demands. Comar 5P.i. ECO has just passed BS7950 at BRE, which provides compliance with Secured By Design. The

weather test BS 6375 provides even more reassurance: air permeability passed at 600Pa, water tightness at 750Pa, wind resistance at 2400Pa and design safety at 3600Pa. Comar 7Pi HSD, a horizontal sliding door system also meets ever increasing demands for energy efficient building materials. Both systems incorporate the trademarked P.i thermal efficiency providing low U values. Pi is a 20mm-35mm polyamide strip manufactured from reinforced glass fibre, which separates the inner and outer profiles, creating an extremely effective thermal break.


sIeGenIA-AUBI:meetALUmInIUm’snewhARDwAReheAVYweIGhtsIn the continued quest for bigger and better expanses of glass in contemporary buildings, SIEGENIA-AUBI is helping architects and designers to incorporate conventional opening windows which are more than capable of carrying the load. LM TBT200 and D300 aluminium window hardware from SIEGENIA-AUBI is designed to support heavyweight sashes with ease. The LM200 hardware for TBT (tilt before turn) and turn first windows can carry sash weights up to 200g whilst its sister product, the LM D300 for turn only windows, copes with sash weights up to 300g with ease. SIEGENIA-AUBI national sales manager Alastair Wheeler says that, together, the two products raise the bar, giving building designers greater flexibility to incorporate large glazed expanses into new build or refurbishment projects.


InstARCUstomeRsstICKwIthInstA-stIK

InStar, is celebrating 10 years in the industry this year – and a long, successful history selling core adhesive product INSTA-STIK. INSTA-STIK roofing adhesive - used to attach insulation boards and waterproofing membranes to a variety of substrates on flat roofs - benefits from a unique delivery system allowing precisely controlled doses, so less product and time is wasted. INSTA-STIK comes in a portable, pressurized container which needs no external power source, making it easy to use on a high construction site. Unlike liquid polyurethane adhesives, the product is already expanded when dispensed and “cures” within 30 to 45 minutes, resulting in faster installation times. www.insta-stik.co.uk



PRODUCT NEWS

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PRODUCT NEWS

39

Traditionally, flexible fire barriers have only been utilised for vertical applications. Not any more, FIREFLY in line with industry needs, have had ALL the fire barriers in the FIREFLY range tested and assessed for horizontal applications also, which widens the scope for their use tremendously. All the products in the range are also fully Certified by a Third Party Certification body, for both vertical and horizontal applications, which basically gives the Client, Specifier and Installer confidence, that the product will perform as required.

It must be pointed out that you cannot assume that a fire barrier will perform the same in the horizontal plane as it does in the vertical, the products must be tested and assessed for performance, as a horizontal barrier by an accredited Test House, to ascertain the correct fire rating of the product.The same applies to requirements for increased performance, you cannot just install 2 layers of a fire barrier and expect to receive double the fire rating or the insulation, fire barriers do not work that way, years of development and testing have taught us this. The only way to ensure that a Fire Barrier will perform in the situation you need it to perform, is to ensure that you have sight of a test document, that clearly states the installation method and fire performance achieved.

FIREFLY Fire Barriers are lightweight, flexible and have simple installation methods even for horizontal applications. With detailed installation drawings available for all applications FIREFLY gives you a simple solution to your Fire Barrier requirements. All FIREFLY products can now be manufactured in Black. Tel: 01706 758817 www.tbafirefly.co.uk


fIRefLYGoeshoRIZontAL

The perfect cladding combination –Colour, Nature and sustainability.

01978 812 111

Made from advanced, high performance composites with a 60-year design life, Steni façade panels give you a choice of smooth or aggregate finishes in a huge range of colours.

Together, steni colour and steni nature ranges offer superb design flexibility – plus excellent sustainability, being halogen-free, chemically neutral and recyclable.

[email protected]

Unit 1-4, Vauxhall Industrial Estate, Ruabon, Wrexham LL14 6HA

To find out about our environmental credentials, simply contact us:

Steni’s FRP composite panels have a considerably reduced environmental impact from VOC emissions, energy consumption and toxicity. In fact, a European study found they ecologically outperformed every alternative to be amongst the most environmentally friendly products on the market.

The first to be developed specifically to reduce environmental impact

Steni UK has full ISO 14001 environmental accreditation

Produced to size at the factory for zero wastage

LoKfACADe-stYLIshCLADDInGfRomRIGIsYstemsoVeRLAPPInGZInCPAneLsIDeALALteRnAtIVetotImBeRshIPLAPThe VMZINC 200 Overlapping Panel system provides the ideal alternative to conventional shiplap timber cladding, as zinc does not lose its colour, corrode or need regular maintenance. Panels are available in 2 and 3 metres lengths, are 200mm wide and can be used for installations of up to 30 metres in height. Available in distinctive pre-weathered colours such as ANTHRA-ZINC (black) and QUARTZ-ZINC (mid-grey), the panels simply fix to a metal or timber framework. Any cut edges will not corrode as the metal develops a self-healing natural patina.


Designed to provide a cost-effective and aesthetically pleasing cladding solution for soffits, fascias, canopies and external walls, LokFacade is available in standard widths of 150, 200 and 300mm but can also be supplied in an almost limitless range of non-standard widths. A particular feature of LokFacade is the very simple installation procedure, directly to the structure of the building. LokFacade is available with two facade profiles, designed to fit either flush or with a shadow line, and can be interchanged to create a number of aesthetically pleasing designs.



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sUPeReffICIentsL97foLDInGGLAssDooRLAUnCheDEfficient use of the energy that is developed within the home is important in keeping our energy costs under control. One area where energy can be lost is the window/door areas of the home yet at the same time we like to ensure that we maximise the amount of available light in the home, particularly over the winter period. Sustainability of the environment both externally and within the home is vital if we are to minimise heating costs. The launch of a super efficient folding glass door marks a significant development in this important area. Solarlux have launched their most efficient glass door to the UK market.Combining four core elements that enable the door to achieve a U value of 0.80Wm2K, the new SL97 is the first wood/aluminium folding glass door with an integrated thermal layer to be launched onto the market and is specially designed with the demands of energy saving in mind. By using wood on the interior and a combination of insulating material and protective aluminium on the outside as well as triple glazing, the SL 97 from Solarlux has been able to combine the advantages of four materials in a single product. Inside the room, the wood panels create a natural warm atmosphere and, on the outside, the fully insulated rear-ventilated aluminium facing sheets guarantee permanent protection from the elements with only minimal maintenance requirements. The company envisages future applications both in luxurious private homes and multi-storey high-quality rented and owner-occupied flats. After all, first-class materials and comfortable fittings are essential for prestigious properties where lifestyle is an important element of a home. The SL 97 is suitable for new buildings as well as renovation projects in both the private and public sectors. The SL 97 will be available as a top and bottom-running system with stainless steel carriages and runners. It comes with hidden fittings which can be conveniently operated using one hand as well as espagnolette bolts which lock the doors in any position, as well as providing a high degree of security. Three all-round seals protect the system from the wind and rain. FSC or PEFC-certified pines and fir woods are used as standard for the wooden sections; other wood types are also available to order. www.solarlux.co.uk t: 0170 733 9970


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sUReCLADCeRAmICGRAnIteCLADDInGsPeCIfIeDfoRCAsAhoteLInChesteRfIeLDWhen architects at careyjones chapmantolcher in Leeds specified Sureclad ceramic granite ventilated facades for the new Casa Hotel in Chesterfield, the off-site prefabrication, speed of installation and lifetime maintenance costs of Shackerley’s system were every bit as important as the final appearance of the building.

In just over a year the architects and main contractors Miller Construction delivered a £20million hotel and office complex for entrepreneur Steve Perez of Global Brands Ltd. The new facilities include Chesterfield’s first four star hotel, with 100 bedrooms, 100-cover restaurant, bars and banqueting facilities on the first four floors, and Global Brands’ state of the art HQ and offices, and additional hotel conference rooms on the top two floors.

Associate architect Paul Cowlin-Chelin said that this was a “very challenging” fast track project partly because of the hybrid construction incorporating a post tensioning system to the first and second storeys, and also due to the extensive environmental modelling required to deliver a high level of energy efficiency and ensure compliance with Part L.

Completing the exterior envelope was more straightforward. The Sureclad ceramic granite ventilated facade panels had been cut to size and prefabricated in Shackerley’s ISO9001 quality certified production facilities and were delivered to site already safety meshed, pre-drilled and with preformed straps attached by a patented undercut stainless steel anchor system. The ventilated facades were installed by specialist contractors, Norking. www.shackerley.com


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Paul commented: “We knew from projects such as the Dakota at Forth Bridge that Shackerley’s Sureclad system could be installed rapidly. The Sureclad Access carrier system and ceramic granite facades went up quickly and gave us a trouble-free interface with the curtain walling and glazing systems. In the cavity behind the facades we hid a number of services from view and installed Kingspan rainscreen boards to enhance the thermal insulation of the building.”A premium cladding finish was required to complement the luxurious styling of the interiors and to project the Casa Hotels brand. Explaining why ceramic granite had been specified in preference to natural stone, Paul said: “Ceramic granite may resemble naturally quarried stone in appearance but it is an exceptionally hard and totally impermeable material that won’t degrade or lose its looks, no matter how extreme the climatic conditions, UV-light intensity, and air pollution. As the hotel is situated on a very busy junction on one of Chesterfield’s main arterial roads, it was particularly important that the facades would be totally resistant to exhaust emissions and other airborne pollutants.” Paul concluded, “From past experience we knew that Shackerley’s ceramic granite ventilated facades would give us the aesthetic appearance, the speed of installation and the technical performance required on this development, and would offer the lowest possible lifetime maintenance costs.”

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OPINION

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OPINION|smOke alarmsHAS THE CO ALARM COME OF AGE?neILPeRDeLL,nAtIonALteChnICALmAnAGeR,AICoLtD

Whilst 80% of homes now have a smoke alarm fitted, Carbon Monoxide (CO) alarms haven’t caught on in the domestic field in substantial numbers. However, as a manufacturer of both mains powered smoke and CO alarms for residential use, at Aico we have begun to see an encouraging, if gradual, move towards the installation of CO alarms over the past couple of years, primarily in the social housing sector.

What is behind this development when, on the face of it, nothing much has changed? CO remains as dangerous as ever. CO sensing technology hasn’t dramatically altered (it was good to start with!) and CO alarms remain more expensive than smoke alarms. What’s more, regulations haven’t changed much.

The only change has been to The Building Regulations, Approved Document J ‘Combustion appliances and fuel storage systems’ which, for the very first time, makes CO alarms mandatory “Where a new or replacement fixed solid fuel appliance is installed in a dwelling.” This may be a step forward, but it doesn’t apply to gas appliances which are actually the most common cause of CO poisoning.

Furthermore, the bulk of social housing properties aren’t heated by solid fuel appliances, so this new Regulation will only apply in a handful of cases.

The one key thing that really seems to be driving this move to fit CO alarms seems to be awareness.

There have been a number of high profile deaths from CO poisoning over recent years, which have made the news. Pressure groups have also been a driving force, as has the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) with its continual feed of information highlighting the problem of CO leaks. A few years back you would have been hard pressed to find anything in the news about CO poisoning.

Some far-sighted local authorities and housing associations have been quick to pick up on this and revise their tenant safety policy accordingly.

Housing Association L&Q is a prime example of this knowledge spread. L&Q is installing Aico CO alarms into 6000 of its properties across Greater London and South East England that have gas appliances and / or gas flues located in bedrooms, open-flued gas appliances or gas warm air units.

Craig McFarlane, Asset Policy Advisor, explains the decision to install CO alarms in the first place: “HSE is keen to raise standards of gas safety. L&Q has taken this action in response. L&Q is committed to ensuring the highest standards of health and safety and believes that CO alarms will provide an added level of assurance on gas safety.”

Swindon Borough Council also acknowledges the influence of the HSE and public awareness. Keith Hooker at the Council comments: “Incidents of CO poisoning get reported via news channels more than ever before, including some large cases, and there is more information coming from the HSE on which to base policy.”

And this is good news, as there are very few regulations driving the move to CO alarm installation as we have already seen. Halton Housing Trust acknowledges this: “the Trust is very alive to the dangers posed by Carbon Monoxide poisoning. We have included one or two CO alarms in each property as part of our investment programme and to ensure we are ahead of the game in terms of best practice” states Electrical Officer Brian Hewitt.

However, whilst a lack of regulations is an issue, the Decent Homes standard has proved beneficial to the case for fitting CO alarms. Billy Brooks, Electrical Project Manager at 2010 Rotherham explains how Decent Homes has had an impact on his organisation: “We started fitting CO alarms into vulnerable properties, i.e. those with solid fuel and open flued appliances and we have now included it into the specification for our Decent Homes programme.” 2010 Rotherham is installing Aico mains powered CO alarms into all of its properties, interlinked with Aico smoke alarms.

This raises another interesting point that may be having a positive effect in the social housing sector: CO alarm sensing technology hasn’t changed, but the ability to simply and cost-effectively add CO alarms to an existing smoke alarm system has.

With the development of RF alarm interconnection, CO alarms can be wirelessly interconnected to the smoke alarms, so that when the CO alarm detects dangerous levels of CO, all the alarms interconnected on the system will sound. This is important as a CO alarm is generally away from a bedroom area so may not be heard if there is a CO incident when occupants are asleep. This

makes use of the interconnection facility already in place for the smoke alarms, greatly reducing cost. Swindon Borough Council is also going down this route of interlinking CO alarms (which it is fitting for the first time) with smoke alarms, and doing it wirelessly.

Keith Hooker explains the benefit of this approach: “As the CO alarms have been added as part of the general electrical upgrade work, including replacing older smoke alarms, it’s really not that more expensive as our contractors are already in the properties doing electrical upgrades. It’s not as big as an investment as we thought it would be.”

Clearly such a system needs to have some means of identifying which particular unit has gone into alarm. In the case of Swindon, they are using the Aico wall-mounted Alarm Control Switch in properties to allow residents to quickly locate the exact alarm which has detected the fire or CO leak and take appropriate action.

So it looks to all intents and purposes that the tide really is turning and CO alarms are finally being considered important home safety devices. Sadly it’s taken a number of preventable deaths

to get here and without any new regulations on the horizon it still remains up to individual landlords to make the decision to install. But installing they are, at least in the social housing sector. But getting to that 80% saturation mark that we have for the smoke alarm still seems like a long way off.

A wholly owned subsidiary of Ei Electronics, Aico offers a full range of CO alarms, including models compatible for interconnection with any of its Ei smoke and heat alarm units. All alarms are designed and built in Europe specifically to meet the UK standards and regulations.www.aico.co.uk

OPINION|DOOrs

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OPINION

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OPENING THE DOOR TO PART L COMPLIANCEmIKehUDson,DIReCtoR,mAnsemAsteRDoRLtD

Estimates gauge that 60% of the homes we’ll inhabit in 2050 have already been built. This means that retrofitting is a key issue in creating better insulated, more energy efficient homes. Changes to the Part L Building Regulations last October, are just the start.

Usually Building Regulations apply to newbuild or extension work, however Part L also applies to the refurbishment of existing homes where no building work has taken place. This makes the choice of external doors even more important. The simple act of fitting a thermally efficient door that is airtight and excludes draughts can have a major impact on tenants’ fuel bills – as you are literally stopping cold entering and warmth escaping a property. According to statistics from the Energy Saving Trust (EST) £6.6 billion of energy is wasted in the UK every year through homes that are poorly insulated. The EST states that in an un-insulated house, 11% of heat is lost through the floor and doors.

You need to consider the materials in which doors are manufactured, their thermal properties and air tightness, as well as the look and style of

the doors, which is so important to residents. The U-Value requirement for external doors is 2.0 W/m2K for new houses in England and Wales and 1.8 W/m2K in Scotland. For existing residential buildings the values are lower at 1.8 in England and Wales and 1.6 in Scotland. This means that some door manufacturers will limit their door styles to avoid Part L compliance or rely on energy efficient and often more expensive glass such as krypton filled units to meet the requirements.

Timber solutions Timber doors provide a great solution for Part L and Manse Masterdor itself, whose products are widely specified in the social housing sector, has launched a range of external timber ‘thermal’ door-sets with low U-values that can help specifiers comply with the latest changes to Part L of the Building Regulations.

Although the requirements for new buildings are based on the total energy performance of the whole building rather than individual components, higher performance doors are essential. This has already led forward thinking specifiers and

architects to incorporate the substantial benefits of timber door-sets into new, lower carbon properties achieving Code Levels 3 to 6. As the regulations tighten, timber continues to provide a first class option.

For example the 54mm insulated Masterdor TT (Timber Thermal) delivers a U-value of 1.1 W/m2K, and 44mm timber Masterdors with glazing achieve U-values of 1.6W/m2K or lower. The Masterdor TT has an insulating core and is finished in a microporous paint which provides added weather and security protection. But improved performance should not be at the expense of aesthetics given the attachment and strength of feeling many tenants exhibit towards the styles and colours of the doors available to them.

One of the criticisms of composite doors is that they rarely give extensive style or colour choice so, even if they meet the strict new performance criteria of Part L, they are unlikely to achieve widespread tenant satisfaction. The need to build to high Code levels has been a catalyst for innovation in new homes design too which is

another important reason why performance and aesthetic options must go hand-in-hand.

With its availability in 100 different door designs in any BS4800 colour, as well as selected RAL colours, Masterdor TT easily overcomes any styling concerns.

Keeping homes airtightSpecifiers also need to consider the air tightness of doors. It’s no use choosing a thermally efficient material such as timber and not making sure the construction and fitting ensures a high level of air tightness. Masterdors meet exceptionally high levels of airtightness – the 800 Special rating. This is regarded as airtight under British Standards. They also meet and exceed the requirements of PAS 23, PAS 24 and Secured by Design.

Masterdor has always strived to make door sets draught free. Through a policy of continuous development, doors are produced that are airtight and therefore thermally efficient in terms of energy loss due to convected air. The thermally insulated door blade coupled with the lead-free Sheerframe PVCu door frame using Thermlock

reinforcement, has resulted in a truly energy efficient door set.

As Masterdors are made to measure timber engineered door-sets, social housing providers, specifiers and architects can be confident that a product can be designed to their specification, looks great and meets Building Regulation requirements. www.masterdor.co.uk

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OPINION

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OPINION|ImPregNateD fOam taPesMIND THE GAPtRemCoILLBRUCKBUsInessDeVeLoPmentmAnAGeRsteVewILD

settLesDowntoConsIDeRJoInts

Today something like one in five housing units is built with a timber frame construction and the sector has been growing in recent years.

One issue arising from this is differential settlement. What happens is that the structure is erected, the walls put in place with windows fitted, and then left for some time before the external envelope (usually brickwork) is erected.

While all this is happening the timber frame will be settling along with other associated movement. The external brickwork can also expand due to moisture take-up. As a consequence the window cill is liable to collide with the brickwork below, causing significant problems. The design looked fine on the drawing board. So what went wrong?

The truth is that all designers of timber frame buildings should bear in mind the message broadcast over the London Underground system every day: ‘Mind the gap!’ The designer has to be very much aware of what that gap can be and as the build gets higher it gets worse. On a typical timber framed construction, about 6 mm per floor average movement or settlement is likely. So on a five or six storey building you could have over 30 mm of settlement.

No wet sealant in the world is going to cope with that level of movement. One proven solution is the use of Compriband impregnated foam tapes. Each size selected offers a degree of tolerance or movement capability, typically 5-10 mm of tolerance in a joint. If that isn’t enough there’s Compriband Timber Max which offers up to 37 mm of movement in one product, designed for use in the upper storeys of timber framed buildings.

The tape is essentially an impregnated foam tape weather sealing product that will stop driving rain, but is also breathable, so any moisture behind it can escape. This is very useful for hotels, apartments and commercial buildings with a timber frame structure. It may also be used on timber framed houses.

Timber settles because it’s a natural product and it dries following construction. Settlement also occurs due to loading of the building during construction. Different types of timber have different characteristics. Engineered timber tends to have less moisture so there is less to dry out and therefore lower levels of settlement to contend with. The mind the gap message is also relevant to stadia: football stadiums, for

example, may have concrete terracing, steps with seats fixed to them, in pre-cast sections. There is very probably a gap between the sections but from a health and safety point of view it is vital to make sure that gap is filled with something. If it isn’t then it can become a fire hazard if it gets choked with litter.

The terracing may not need weatherproofing, but it still makes sense to fill it with a suitable flexible material. Prefabricated units, like SIPs (structurally insulated panels), may also need a joint sealer. If the pre-fab is made of timber and tolerances are tight or materials are liable to move, a flexible product, such as an impregnated foam tape, is usually more than capable of coping. Whilst it will offer weather tightness (water resistance) it can also be draught proof and airtight.

Tremco illbruck has a portfolio of products designed to provide a solution to any settlement problem. There’s Compriband 600, Compriband Timber Max, Compriband Super and Compriband VSA 2. Additionally, Compriband ‘e’ and ‘i’ are encapsulated in a plastic sleeve preventing expansion until released. These options provide weather and airtight seals respectively. There are subtle differences, either in the impregnation or the movement capability of all of the above products.

Compriband Timber Max, followed by Compriband 600 have the widest movement tolerance, and Compriband Super and VSA are more defined in the type of joint they suit. It is possible to select the most appropriate and cost effective tape for the specific application.

In the past, wet sealants tended to be preferred as a gap filler. Whilst today’s more sophisticated products probably cost a little more than wet sealant, they can prove more economic to install, particularly when allowing for backer rods and specific tooling techniques associated with wet sealants. Finishing off may involve a certain amount of skilled work, to make sure that the end result and the aesthetics, is pleasing to the eye. This is particularly true if the size of the joint varies.

When installing wet sealants, there may also be concern about the weather, especially if the gap is in an exposed location. If the application has to be postponed, such delays increase the cost, particularly with knock-on effects to other trades. Impregnated tapes can be applied in almost any weather. Certainly a wet surface is no reason to

stop application and they don’t have to dry in the sense that wet sealant cures, so rain does not affect the finish.

That means impregnated tapes can speed up the building process and they are just as durable. For example the Compriband range is expected to last 25 years or more, matching the life expectancy of any wet sealant. And the 25 year prediction is not just a question of accelerated testing. Tremco illbruck can show examples of real life service over a quarter of a century.

When it comes to maintenance and life cycle costing, white silicone sealant tends to go grey thanks to UV light. This discolouration makes the joint look unsightly. Tape usually comes in black or grey and UV stability is not an issue. Joints can look almost as good as new after a quarter of a

century’s service.

For a variety of reasons, impregnated foam tapes offer the best solution to joint sealing, from movement accommodation, joint size tolerance, weather performance and long term durability.

For more information call Tremco illbruck on 0191 419 0505, e-mail [email protected] or look at website www.tremco-illbruck.co.uk.

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OPINION

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OPINION|fIre safetYWRIGHTSTyLE RAISES FIRE SAFETy CONCERNS WITH UK GOvERNMENTDenIswRIGht,mAnAGInGDIReCtoR,wRIGhtstYLe

One of the UK’s leading steel glazing companies has written to the government to raise what it believes to be an “extremely important” issue of fire safety. Wrightstyle Limited, which supplies steel glazing systems worldwide, is concerned that glazed doors, screens and facades are being inspected and passed as being fire resistant when in fact they offer little protection.

The company’s chairman, Denis Wright, has raised the issue with Andrew Stunell OBE MP, Under Secretary of State at the Department for Communities and Local Government, who has already announced a consultation on changes that need to be made to the building regulations

to ensure they remain fit for purpose. The minister has also stated that he wishes to explore what more can be done to make sure inspectors adhere to the building regulations and how better levels of compliance can be delivered - issues that are at the heart of Wrightstyle’s concern.

The company believes that there seems to be an incomplete understanding and enforcement of fire specifications contained within the Approved Document B and the usage requirements of certification data.

“For example, and we have first-hand experience of this, unlatched doors with untested or

incompatible fire-resistant glass are being accepted as fire doors within the regulatory definitions despite the fact that they are clearly not within the permissible limitations of their supplied test certification. This is palpably absurd,” said Denis Wright in his letter.

Wrightstyle says that there seems to be insufficient guidance to fire or building control officers or consultants as to what needs to be specifically checked on the submitted data. The building regulations simply state that test standards such as BS476 Part 22 or the applicable EN specification should be available. However, at no point do the regulations require further

examination of that test certificate to determine whether or not the installed assembly matches the description in the certification.

For example, if the assembly is constructed from multiple components, have they been tested together? If it has been welded, has it been welded using the correct process?

In the recent past, Wrightstyle has raised issues of fire safety certification in Dubai and, most recently, in Abu Dhabi, where it believed that regulations were not being stringently enforced, or where there was a less than optimal understanding of the performance criteria of using systems where

components have not been tested together.

Wrightstyle supplies internal and external glass and glazing systems internationally, with a full service capability from design, through fabrication to installation. Apart from recent UK contracts, for both commercial and Olympic projects, it has supplied over the past year to, among other countries, South Africa (a FIFA World Cup stadium), UAE (Dubai Metro) and the USA (a nationally-important chapel for the US Marine Corps).

“British Standards and Building Regulations are there to protect public safety, not least in the

event of a catastrophic fire. With regret, when it comes to unlatched fire doors, there requires to be an assessment of current guidelines for fire safety officers, and other authorised fire consultants, and an urgent need to issue further guidance to determine when an unlatched glazed door system can be considered a fire door,” concluded Denis Wright.www.wrightstyle.co.uk

The 3R’s of building are Re-new-Re-cycle-Re-vive and with the help of windows, doors, window walling and curtain walling from Comar Architectural Aluminium Systems & Alu-Timber, on-time, cost effective solutions are achieved.

Re-newing a school could mean a total new-build or a refurbishment. Comar & Alu-Timber have a Nationwide network of approved fabricators, who can handle a range of projects from a single window replacement in term time, the refurbishment and installation of a new aluminium facade for an elevation, or a complete new-build envelope.

The Parkside Group Ltd Web: www.parksidegroup.co.uk Email: [email protected] Tel: 0208 685 9685

Re-cycling, aluminium can be re-cycled again and again with no loss to its form and function, creating a bank of valuable aluminium for future generations.

Re-viving, aluminium facades with their high strength-to-weight-ratio, create sleek, slim sight lines that house co-ordinating glass or panels. These aesthetically pleasing sight-lines can be finished in a myriad of polyester powder coating or anodising colours. In a non-marine environment a standard guarantee of 25 years is offered. However, with correct planned maintenance, the design life of aluminium is indefinite; the Empire State Building has an aluminium roof and 100 years after its construction still maintains its original striking appearance.

3Rs_A4_Image.indd 1 18/2/11 14:36:52

The 3R’s of building are Re-new-Re-cycle-Re-vive and with the help of windows, doors, window walling and curtain walling from Comar Architectural Aluminium Systems & Alu-Timber, on-time, cost effective solutions are achieved.

Re-newing a school could mean a total new-build or a refurbishment. Comar & Alu-Timber have a Nationwide network of approved fabricators, who can handle a range of projects from a single window replacement in term time, the refurbishment and installation of a new aluminium facade for an elevation, or a complete new-build envelope.

The Parkside Group Ltd Web: www.parksidegroup.co.uk Email: [email protected] Tel: 0208 685 9685

Re-cycling, aluminium can be re-cycled again and again with no loss to its form and function, creating a bank of valuable aluminium for future generations.

Re-viving, aluminium facades with their high strength-to-weight-ratio, create sleek, slim sight lines that house co-ordinating glass or panels. These aesthetically pleasing sight-lines can be finished in a myriad of polyester powder coating or anodising colours. In a non-marine environment a standard guarantee of 25 years is offered. However, with correct planned maintenance, the design life of aluminium is indefinite; the Empire State Building has an aluminium roof and 100 years after its construction still maintains its original striking appearance.

3Rs_A4_Image.indd 1 18/2/11 14:36:52

OPINION|kItCHeN VeNtIlatIONTHE EFFECTIvE vENTILATION OF COMMERCIAL AND PUBLIC SECTOR KITCHENSsteVeLeonARD,mAnAGInGDIReCtoRofLeDAIRefABRICAtIonsLooKsAtVentILAtIonGUIDeLInesDesIGneDtoheLPmAKeCommeRCIALKItChensmoRehYGIenIC,sAfeAnDGooDfoRBUsIness.

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Air tight ventilation guidelinesWithout adequate ventilation, caterers run alarming risks to staff safety, food quality and customer satisfaction - staff stressed by excessive heat under-perform, food tastes are corrupted and safety precautions risk going down the pan. It takes a lot of effort to disguise these kind of shortcomings. And there’s enough choice out there for customers to be more selective about where they spend their money. Ventilation is quite simple. Air has to be removed, and replaced - constantly. And enough air has to be removed to take away deadly combustion fumes and corrupting cooking odours, as close to the source as possible. The HSE especially recommends the trusty hood for coping with the bulk of extraction above gas-fired appliances, and any others for that matter capable of generating heat, water vapour, fumes and odours.

HSE recommendations for canopy overhangs

island canopies between 250mm and 300mm

wall mounted canopies 250mm front and 150mm at ends

The guidelines provide an excellent set of precautions to start with. However, canopy overhangs of up to 450mm could be recommended over large convection ovens, bread ovens, pizza ovens and hobs where pans are left to boil. When installing new equipment, it’s worth making sure that each appliance’s required air extraction rates can be obtained. Then by adding up the air velocity requirements for each appliance, a total air movement requirement can be calculated for the hood. The HSE guidelines however, provide some air flow rate estimations for different work capacities.

Recommended air flow rates

light cooking use 0.25l/s

medium cooking use 0.4l/s

heavy duty cooking 0.5l/s

To be effective a ventilation system must allow for extracted air to be replaced. The HSE estimates that around 85% of the total air needed tends to be supplied by mechanical ventilation, with the rest coming from adjoining areas. This keeps the kitchen under what is called negative pressure, which helps to prevent the escape of cooking odours. Not wanting to scare smaller businesses into wiping out their profits with unnecessary ventilation fitting installations, the HSE points out that they can naturally ventilate for replacement air through wall grilles, doors and windows.

But, any air fed into the kitchen should be fed from clean areas where pest entry can be controlled and tobacco smoke is absent. An air velocity of more than 0.25l/s passing through a serving hatch would probably be considered as too draughty by customers. This rate may be tolerated or even welcomed in hot areas such as serving counters.

A good balance of incoming and extracted air, together with removal of hot vapours at source, should help prevent kitchens becoming too hot. The replacement air inlets can be positioned to provide cooling air over any hotter work positions. And if this isn’t enough, some form of overhead air outlet can be incorporated to discharge cool air. I’ve seen far too many freestanding fans being used for cooling. These can be a huge safety hazard in a kitchen, putting people at risk from electric shock and tripping over trailing cables. They also

risk spreading unhealthy micro-organisms or set up air movements that could harm the efficiency of any fixed ventilation systems already in use.

Ledaire systems feed cool air through insulated hood sections, from dampened grilles with individually adjustable supply nozzles for concentrating on hot-spots.

Considerations when installing new equipment

workload levels

cleaning requirements

combustion air requirements

grease removal requirements

building limitations

suitable sources of non-mechanically fed air renewal

elimination of pest entry and grease accumulations

energy efficiency

opportunities to interlock ventilation supply with gas supply for max efficiency

Air induction hoods provide a good long-term energy efficiency measure. They save on electricity bills over the years by using the natural flow of air created by convection within the hood. By isolating the cooking area’s air space, induction hoods use only twenty per cent of the total volume of air exhausted from the kitchen. Induction hoods are the best for filtering grease, which in turn reduces the fire risk. With a good induction hood, all the HSE recommendations can be met in a system that will also save on running costs. www.ledaire.com


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With the launch of its inspirational Flex Design collection Forbo has dramatically extended the potential for loose lay vinyl tiles in commercial office, retail and hospitality environments. At the same time, the new range provides an excellent environmental option as a result of its European manufacture, high recycled content and REACH (Registration Evaluation Authority and Restriction of Chemicals) compliance.

Flex Design encompasses abstract and traditional woods, concrete, stone, sand and metallic woven designs. Highlights include Seagrass planks (100 x 20cm) with their smooth grained linear design, inspired by wood but interpreted in a more abstract way, and metallic woven designs (50 x 50cm) which offer a stylish softly textured effect in four different muted metal colours. The collection has been specifically designed to combine well with carpet tiles and LVT (luxury vinyl tile) ranges in Forbo’s portfolio and broadens the choice available for all environments requiring speed of installation or the practical benefits of modular flooring, for instance where access flooring is installed and in renovation projects.

The combination of a glass fleece carrier and multiple calandered layers makes Flex Design unprecedented in strength, performance and quality. A top 1mm transparent wearlayer gives each tile superior strength, durability and clarity whilst the PUR Pearl lacquer delivers stain resistance, ease of maintenance and a natural matt appearance. Manufacture at one of Forbo’s production sites in mainland Europe not only assures specifiers that the collection meets the highest European standards and is REACH compliant, but also guarantees shorter delivery time and competitive pricing, making Flex Design an ideal resilient solution for time and cost dependent projects. “Forbo has managed to push the boundaries by designing and manufacturing in-house, a loose lay tile offering that takes the product category to the next level.” comments Julie Dempster, Marketing Manager, at Forbo Flooring Systems. “Ideal for use in renovation projects, raised access floors or any project where speed of installation is required in permanent or temporary locations – Flex Design provides a quick, reliable yet stylish solution.”

For more information on Flex Design please visit www.forbo-flooring.co.uk/moreinfo or call 0844 822 3928 to request a sample folder.


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Reflecting its long-term environmental focus, Kährs has received FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certification for 13 wood floors produced throughout its range. They include eight oak floors from its Original and Linnea Ranges and all sports floors from its Activity Range, available in a choice of wood species.

Within Kährs European Natural Collections, from the Original Range, rustic Oak Ardenne and Oak Hampshire have received certification, along with even grained Oak Verona and Oak Siena. Meanwhile, FSC floors within the Linnea Range include Oak Amber, Biscuit, Coffee and Honey. Throughout the Activity sports floor range - within which floor’s feature integral shock-absorption and reinforcement properties – all designs are now FSC-certified and compliant to both DIN and EN Standards. Certification, in each case, means that the floors fulfil the demands for FSC labelled products.

Kährs commitment to the environment has received international recognition. Back in 1941, Kährs patented its eco-efficient, multi-layered floor design, on which its range is still based today. In 1993, it was the first floor manufacturer to receive ISO 9001 certification and in 1997 the company was certified according to the ISO 14001 environmental standard. Kährs was the first flooring manufacturer to produce floors with water-based finishes and to introduce the glueless, mechanical joint system Woodloc®.

Last year, 73% of all wood used in floor production came from Swedish forests surrounding its 40 hectare manufacturing site in Nybro, Sweden. During production, tree bark waste that is recovered from Kährs sawmill is used to provide district heat for its 75,000m² plant, neighbouring homes and businesses. The dry saw dust biomass waste is converted to energy pellets and is used to provide carbon-neutral energy for approximately 20,000 households in the region. Meanwhile in this, the UN’s Year of the Forest 2011, Kährs is working even more actively to support socially and environmentally responsible forestry globally, and has an ongoing dialogue with NGO organisations, such as WWF, EIA, Fairtrade, Rainforest Alliance, and Greenpeace. www.kahrs.co.uk


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Sparsholt College Hampshire, near Winchester, a centre of excellence in land-based studies, has chosen the highly sustainable recycled modular building approach from Foremans Relocatable Building Systems to expand its teaching accommodation.

Five modular buildings were required by the College following an increase in students and as part of its continued expansion. The single-storey teaching blocks were refurbished ready for installation on three sites around the campus during the holidays to minimise any disruption to students. The entire project was completed by Foremans just four months from receipt of order.

Each building is partially clad in timber from sustainable sources to help them blend into the surrounding rural environment, and were fully refurbished and fitted out

off site at Foremans’ production centre. Commenting on the project, Tim Jackson, Principal at Sparsholt College, said, “Foremans offered the most cost-effective solution to providing very high quality additional classrooms to accommodate the significant volume increases in students.”

“The classrooms look absolutely excellent and have been clad with cedar panelling and installed at ground level, rather than being elevated, which makes them look like a very settled part of the campus. We were very happy with the service and the finish, and would be happy to recommend the approach to other education providers.”

Nigel Stephens, Property Manager at Sparsholt College, said, “The use of recycled building modules is highly sustainable, and minimised any impact on the environment

– an important requirement for the College. The modular approach also helped us to address the limitations of our site and its restricted access, as well as ensuring the classrooms would be in place for the start of the new term.”

“This is the first time we have used recycled and refurbished modular buildings and we are very pleased. You really can’t tell the difference between these classrooms and newly manufactured modular buildings. This was a very successful project and Foremans’ service was very good.” Each recycled modular building was fully refurbished with new windows, wall linings, partitions, M&E services, doors and flooring, creating high quality teaching accommodation for the College’s permanent use. Sparsholt College is a Centre of Vocational Excellence, and is one of the largest and best regarded colleges of further education that

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specialises in land-based studies. It has more than 1,400 full-time and 6,000 part-time students.

The recycling and refurbishment of relocatable buildings is one of the most sustainable methods of construction – helping to reduce carbon emissions, waste sent to landfill, and improving a building’s carbon footprint. The sustainability benefits include: The Foremans approach generates less than 10 per cent of the carbon emissions compared to a newly manufactured building of equivalent size (source: CO2 Emissions from Use, Scrapping and Manufacture of Modular Buildings, MPBA).

Because much of the refurbishment work takes place off site, the approach generates fewer vehicle movements to site than traditional new build. The bulk of the embodied

energy in a modular building is in the steel components and the insulation materials used in the manufacture of the building envelope. By refurbishing the building modules and preserving these elements which have significant embodied energy, Foremans is extending the life of the building. www.foremansbuildings.info


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ProCure21 partner, Kier Eastern, working with off-site specialist Yorkon, has reduced the programme for a major new hospital building at Colchester General Hospital by around six months. Kier was Principal Supply Chain Partner appointed by Colchester Hospital University NHS Foundation Trust under the ProCure21 framework to provide the new facility as part of a £20m contract – the biggest development in the hospital’s recent history. The building was manufactured and fitted out off site and installed by Yorkon in a £10m sub-contract, reducing time on site to just 10 months.

Designed by Tangram Architects, the scheme increased the Trust’s capacity in time for the peak winter period. It accommodates a new children’s department on the ground floor and an elective care centre and surgical ward on the upper floor, with plant rooms above. In order to reduce the construction programme for the new building to the benefit of patient care, Kier and the Trust took the decision to use an off-site solution. The approach also allowed an existing ward building on the site to remain in use until just days before the second phase of modules arrived on site. The new purpose-designed facilities include 68 inpatient beds, consultation and treatment rooms, nurses’ stations, two isolation beds, administrative offices, a school room, children’s dining room, utility room, stores, toilets and ancillary rooms.

Nick Chatten, Director of Corporate Development at Colchester Hospital University NHS Foundation Trust, said, “This project is the first phase in a programme of redevelopment at Colchester General Hospital. Speed was the principal reason for using an off-site solution for the building. We needed to have the new facilities operational in time for the busy winter period.”

“The finished building is very impressive. It provides a good patient environment for both children in the children’s department and adults in the elective care centre and the new surgical ward. It addresses the issues of patient privacy and dignity, and we are pleased with the ambience, feel, space and quiet. The scheme is also now helping us to provide additional capacity elsewhere in the hospital to deal with unexpected pressures.”

“Located near the main entrance, the building creates a strong image for the hospital with its striking architectural lines. And most importantly, it has been well received by patients and staff.” Commenting on the use of off-site construction, Nick Bache, Director at Kier

Eastern, said, “A team from Kier visited the Yorkon production centre and one of their completed projects at the outset, and were impressed with the quality and approach. Off-site construction has provided us with a fast-track site solution, safer working conditions and a considerable reduction in waste sent to landfill. The logistics of the project, particularly for the two module delivery phases, required careful planning between the Trust, Kier and Yorkon, and I am pleased to report, it went very well. We are very pleased with the finished building.”

David Johnson, Director and General Manager of Yorkon, said, “This is one of the most challenging healthcare projects we have undertaken to date. The shape of the site demanded a very complex modular layout, this is a highly constrained site, and there was only a short window for construction.”

148 steel-framed modules up to 14m long and 3.3m wide, and each weighing up to 12 tonnes, were delivered and installed in just 17 days. The units were partially fitted out off site, including internal partitioning and first fix M&E services. The building, which has achieved a BREEAM ‘very good’ rating (targeted), has created an attractive and welcoming environment for staff and patients, particularly given its prominent location next to the hospital’s main entrance. It has deeply articulated façades finished in a palette of materials, including white render, vertical bands of rainscreen cladding and curtain walling. The new Yorkon pre-installed concrete floor has been used throughout – the first time this award-winning modular technology has been used for a complete building. It is an innovative off-site solution ideal for high traffic areas and to accommodate sensitive hospital equipment. The children’s department is arranged around two large central courtyards that provide a protected play area and a sensory garden. Internally it features multi-coloured and patterned flooring, walls in bright colours, murals and a distinctive design for the reception and nurses’ station, which as well as creating a cheerful interior, assists in way finding. www.kier.co.uk www.yorkon.info


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LAIDLAwDooRsetsfoRIConICoLYmPICtRAInInGVenUeThe rejuvenation of the the iconic Grade II-listed Uxbridge Lido, which had been closed for more than ten years, has produced a new leisure facility in West London which will be used by Britain’s leading swimmers in the run-up to the 2012 Olympics. The original Lido had been used for the 1948 London Olympiad and as part of the London Borough of Hillingdon’s new £25 million Sport and Leisure Complex the pool was formally opened by London Mayor Boris Johnson. The design and build scheme was headed by renowned sport and leisure sector architects FaulknerBrowns. A combination of Orbis Timber Doorsets including a ‘Steam Beech’ laminate finish with polished frames and profile lippings and primed doors with vision panels ready for painting was specified. For public access areas,

pull and lever handles in Polished Stainless Steel were chosen from the distinctive Orbis Premier range. Satin Anodised Aluminium and Satin Stainless Steel hinges, locks, escutcheons, pushplates and kickplates from the Orbis Commercial range were also used.As a year-round facility of considerable traffic intensity, the doors and ironmongery will be put to the severest test. With its 15-year manufacturing and defects guarantee and distinctive visual aesthetic, the Orbis Premier range is proving popular with designers of sports and leisure facilities. In addition to restoration of the1930’s open air pool, the Complex features an indoor pool with

moveable floor, health and fitness suite, community sports hall, café, crèche and an athletics stadium. The restoration will retain a lasting legacy to G Percy Trentham’s 1935 ‘Moderne’ style design.


GRoUnDsoURCeDnIBesYstemheAtstADLeYmemoRIALhALLTadley Memorial Hall is instantly recognisable as the archetypal post-war village hall. Single storied and brick built with a pitched roof, it is a practically designed building that has served the local community well for nearly sixty years. Originally without lighting or heating, electricity was installed in the 1960s and heating, first by infra-red wall heaters and later by safer electric convector heaters, vastly improved the hall’s comfort. Unfortunately the system has over the past few years becoming outdated as, with spiralling energy costs, electricity bills were becoming totally unmanageable.Fortunately the Trustees who run the Memorial Hall obtained access to a grant for the ‘enhancement of community facilities’ from the Borough Council via Tadley Town Council and were able to research and subsequently commission a new, more cost effective, heating system. Both conventional and renewable systems were considered but grants available from the Low Carbon Building Programme and the Community Sustainable Energy Programme meant that the installation of a renewable energy system was financially viable, leaving the lasting advantages of ultra low cost energy as an unmissable legacy. 1st Rate Services of Tadley, the local specialist in renewable energy who are Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) accredited NIBE VIP Installers, have been installing NIBE products for the past five years throughout the South of England. Working closely with Gavin Hogg, a Technical Sales Engineer with NIBE Energy Systems, who also advised on the grant applications, a design was devised and approved for four boreholes each 100 metres deep, to be drilled in the Hall’s car park in order to harness the latent energy in the ground. Plastic piping from a huge roll was inserted into the boreholes and filled with a mixture of water and glycol [anti-freeze], giving a ‘flow and return’ system carrying the ground-heated liquid to a NIBE F1145 heat pump situated in the Hall’s little used back room. Here it was passed through the latest in heat exchangers and compressed to vastly increase the temperature of the liquid.Once this enhanced energy has been utilised in the adjacent hot water cylinder, the now cold liquid was passed back for re-circulation to the boreholes. Since the start up motor is the largest energy consumer in the design, the system runs continually giving a constant temperature in the building night and day, seven days a week. As an ‘add-on’ to the ground-sourced energy a series of vents were installed in the ceiling through which warmed air is recovered from the upper levels of the Hall

and passed back to a NIBE FLM unit, a specially designed heat exchanger which in turn passes that energy to the brine loop for more efficient operation, as well as maintaining a constant level of fresh air, which depending on the season will maintain a constant climate control of the main hall area. Radiators installed by 1st Rate Services are also energy efficient fan controlled low temperature units, which reduce the running costs by up to a third compared to conventional radiators and they will distribute the heat evenly in the main hall area and at the same time match perfectly the running operation of the NIBE FLM unit.The accumulated energy from the two systems means that not only is the Hall at a constant ambient temperature regardless of outside conditions but also that the Trustees have been able to add hot taps to the wash basins [unaccustomed luxury for the users] as well as enjoying unlimited hot water in the kitchen. The new NIBE heating system has certainly upgraded the Memorial Hall’s facilities but, even more important, the vast reduction in fuel bills means that the Trustees will be able to maintain this essential community service for many, many years to come.


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LeVoLUxAPPLIesCooLsCIenCeAtLAtYmeRsChooL

Latymer Upper School’s new Science and Library building effectively fuses contemporary architecture with existing medieval style architecture, with dark red terracotta cladding and an external Solar Shading solution from Levolux. Levolux followed a challenging brief to develop a custom solution incorporating its aluminium Aerofoil Fins and polycarbonate Fins. Along the building’s east and west facing elevations, Levolux installed 72 individual polycarbonate Fins. Standing vertically, each Fin is framed on three sides by aluminium flashings finished in a co-ordinated matt brown powder coating. The Fins are positioned vertically in pairs to shield floor to ceiling glazed panels from the sun’s rays as it passes overhead from east to west. With their lightweight, yet durable polycarbonate construction, the Fins create a distinctive aesthetic, appearing white against the sun, but slightly translucent from behind. Elsewhere, on exposed south-facing elevations, Levolux installed projecting extruded aluminium Aerofoil Fins, formed into 15 panels. Each panel comprises 7 Aerofoil Fins and projects 750mm from the building’s facade. www.levolux.com


mcDonALDsseRVesUPtAstYContRACtfoRGeZeUKCustomers will appreciate the new entrances to McDonalds as GEZE UK wins the contract to install automatic doors in restaurants as part of a national refurbishment programme. GEZE UK will supply automatic swing and sliding doors. Following trials, GEZE UK has been selected to install its compact Slimdrive EMD-F electromechanical drive systems, which can move McDonalds’ large and heavy external swing doors easily and with virtually no noise. Later in 2011, GEZE UK’s durable Slimdrive SL operators will be used for sliding doors where space permits. Part of the Slimdrive range, both operators are just 7cm high so they can be fitted within the framework around the main entrances. Offering flexibility, reliability, functionality and safety, every operator in GEZE’s Slimdrive range has been designed and tested to meet the requirements of all relevant standards and regulations.


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A £1.6m contract at Portsmouth Combined Court Centre to replace all the existing glazing with high specification, solar control Pilkington glass has been completed by Structura UK Ltd, curtain walling specialist. Over 340 vision panes and more than 450 spandrel panels were manufactured and installed by Structura UK after the original glazing was found to have come to the end of its useful life. A Schüco FW50+ high performance aluminium system of individual, thermally-broken, dual-colour window frames in various sizes and configurations was used for the ribbon glazing to the Administration building (phase 1) and for the curtain walling to the Main Court building (phases 2 & 3) which houses jury rooms, judges’ chambers and public access rooms. A considerable improvement in acoustic performance for the Centre has been achieved by the double glazed vision panels made up of an outer pane of 8mm, toughened and heat-soak tested Sun 73/74, a 16mm black spacer bar, argon filled cavity and an inner pane of 9.1mm Optilam brown/clear. The single glazed spandrel panels have an outer pane of 6mm Optifloat bronze,

toughened and heat-soak tested glass, and 75mm thick foam insulation behind. Structura UK ensured an EPDM membrane was fully bonded around the perimeter of each window and fixed to the substructure. Failed slate copings at roof level were overclad with new aluminium copings by Structura UK.


ALL-weAtheRACCessAUtomAtIonExposed to the elements, the prestigious Clarendon Hotel overlooking Blackheath Common now welcomes arriving guests with efficient and reliable bi-parting automatic sliding doors powered by an IP65-rated operator from TORMAX UK Ltd. Deliberately engineered to

withstand the effects of strong winds, the high-torque TORMAX SLIDEDOOR TEP.IP65 drive unit incorporates cutting edge technology that successfully combines efficient door operation with low energy consumption. Further reducing the carbon footprint of the doors, simple key-pad programming incorporates features such as a winter opening function to make it easy for staff to reduce hold-open time in adverse conditions. Built in the 18th Century the Clarendon Hotel now features an all-glass lobby area giving easy access for luggage-laden guests. Reducing on-going maintenance requirements the TEP.IP65 features a self-learning processor-based control system that adapts operation in response to continuous diagnosis.


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‘‘Before this project went ahead we stipulated that our suppliers needed, not only to provide highly thought out, stylish systems but also to be hot on the quality of their service too. I’m delighted to say, we got both from Venesta.’’ Mr Grove, Head, Belleville Primary SchoolNamed ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted in 2007, Belleville School in Battersea, looks after 730 pupils, aged between 4 and 11. Housed in a classic Victorian building, the school is committed to providing a warm and friendly environment for children to learn and spends a lot of time and effort ensuring its pupils feel safe, secure and stimulated. Charged with an extensive refurbishment to the whole school, chartered surveyors, Wilby and Burnett, briefed Venesta to provide a cubicle range that would answer the school’s need for a fun, safe, hygienic environment. Genesis was selected for its design and variety of height options making it the natural choice. School head, Mr Grove, was particularly impressed by Venesta’s online design studio which allowed him to visualise different colour mixes before making his selection. A key consideration on this project was timing. The refurbishment was planned for the school holidays, meaning it had to be gutted and refitted in just six weeks. Thankfully, the highly efficient Venesta team was able to rise to the challenge and delivered the cubicles on time and ready to install. www.venesta.co.uk


ARIGhtRoYALInstALLAtIonLegrand has seen its Arteor wiring devices specified for use in a brand new home to showcase the potential for low carbon, eco-friendly homes at this year’s Ideal Home Show. Designed and built by the Prince’s Foundation for the Built Environment, The Prince of Wales’s Natural House was the centrepiece of the Earl’s Court show and is being billed as the benchmark for new build homes for the future. Arteor is a wiring device and home automation range that features everything from switches and sockets through to the most advanced home automation systems. Combining cutting edge style and state-of-the-art technology, it is currently being specified and installed in an array of high-profile developments. The Arteor wiring devices, which have been installed throughout the Natural House, featured stainless steels plates with magnesium interiors. www.legrand.co.uk


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Concept Bathrooms have recently finished a holiday accommodation refurbishment project, where they used Ultra Tile adhesives, grouts and Ultra Floor sub-floor preparation products. The project included three 17th century cottages and two bed & breakfast rooms. Sub-floor preparation was conducted first using Ultra Floor Level IT one HDB and Ultra Tile Prime IT FP. Self-levelling compound. Concept Bathrooms also used Ultra Tile Prime IT FP to enhance bond strength and prime before applying any adhesive. Floor tiles were then fixed with Ultra Tile ProFlex SP and the wall tiles with ProGrip HG. Travertine wall tiles were fixed with ProFlex SP+ES in white. All tiling applications were finished with grouts from the Ultra Tile range. Ultra Tile FineJoint grout in limestone was applied to the walls and FlexJoint in limestone and anthracite were chosen for the floors. www.ultratileadhesives.co.uk


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soLARsoLUtIonfoRsoCIALhoUsInGsChemeAs part of an ambitious social housing programme, Rotherham council has installed a new photovoltaic roofing system on an apartment block in Maltby, South Yorkshire. Simon Dixon, Sandtoft’s training manager, explains the scope of the project and how the roofing contractor has successfully delivered the solar solution. Following funding from the previous Government’s Homes and Communities Agency, Rotherham Council is half way through constructing 127 properties on six sites across the town.

The new council houses are the first to be built in Rotherham for 30 years. All of the properties are being built to meet Level 4 of the Code for Sustainable Homes as well as Lifetime Homes, and Building for Life Silver Standards. These are way above the typical house-building standards and incorporate a number of measures to ensure the properties are very energy efficient. As part of the construction programme, TH Michaels was appointed to build a block of four apartments in Maltby. In line with the Council’s strict environmental requirements, solar panels were required on the roof. These had to be as aesthetically pleasing as possible, so the contractor opted for a building integrated photovoltaic system rather than a bolt-on product.

Sandtoft’s PV48 solar roofing system met the brief as it can be integrated with most types of roof tile or slate, regardless of the manufacturer. To improve aesthetics, the black photovoltaic panels are supplied with matching flashings that are unobtrusive and maintain the straight vertical lines on the roof.

Sothall Roofing was chosen to install the PV48 system which was integrated with fibre cement slates. Supplied as a complete system and ready to install, the PV48 is MCS accredited and has been specifically designed for installation by roofing contractors. There is no need for a separate solar installer which reduces the number of trades on the roof and saves time. And, the training takes less than one day even for those roofers with no previous experience of fitting solar products.

A key element of the training is the use of a ‘template’ for setting out the roof, enabling the roofer to correctly position the counter battens and hooks that the solar panels will be fitted on to.

Following the setting out, the flashings are fitted. These have been designed so that the roofers can simply flash the area where the panels are going to be installed. The flashing are very similar to those used for fitting roof windows, so are familiar to roofing contractors thereby significantly reducing the risk of poor workmanship and subsequent weatherproofing problems. The whole roof is then tiled. As the roofers can stand in the area which is designated for the panels, they have better access to the roof making it easier for them to complete the tiling. This also minimises the requirement for roof ladders.

The panels which each measure 1.4 square metres, are quickly and simply installed at the end of the roofing process, so there is no need for the roofers to work over

the solar modules. This helps to improve safety and reduces the risk of any damage. And if security is a potential issue, the panels could also be installed just before the scaffold comes down.

To complete the installation, the roofer connects the solar modules with simple push fit connectors and passes a pair of cables through the underlay into the roof space for later connection by the electrical contractor. The PV48 includes the appropriate inverter to complete the connection of the solar system to the building’s grid-supplied electrical system.

Wayne Bartholomew was one of the roofers responsible for installing the PV48 for Rotherham Council and gave us feedback on the project. He said: “I’ve installed other solar products before, including integrated and bolt-on systems and the PV48 is by far the easiest one to fit. The setting out is the most challenging aspect of the training but the template really assisted with this. Once we’d established how to set out the roof, the rest of the installation process was very straightforward. We spent a day with Sandtoft’s training manager learning how to install eight panels on the first elevation. The following day we fitted the remaining six panels in just four hours without any assistance from Sandtoft.

“I am a traditionally-trained slater but times are changing, so I recognise that I need to adapt and expand my skills to meet customers’ needs. There has been an obvious and recent shift towards using solar, so it’s vital that roofers take the opportunity to learn how to install them effectively. Any training in this area is very valuable and adds another important string to a roofer’s bow.”

The roof was completed within TH Michael’s tight construction schedule, ensuring that the new tenants can look forward to a high quality, aesthetic property that reduces carbon emissions and protects them from rising electricity bills. www.sandtoft.com


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ResIDentsenJoYLonDonVIewswIthsUResPAn’sGLAZeDhAtChesLeading access hatch manufacturer Surespan Ltd has designed and manufactured six bespoke glazed roof hatches for luxury penthouse apartments in London. Each hatch – measuring 3 metres X 2.5 metres – allows residents easy access to their roof terrace where they can enjoy views of the Houses of Parliament and the London Eye. They are fully glazed with an electrically operated sliding top panel which is easily activated by pressing a button. The hatches incorporate several safety features, including 24v controls and a battery back-up to operate the motor should there be a mains power failure. In the event of a fire, the unit side door is designed to open independently of the sliding top to allow emergency exit. For added security, each hatch has a number coded lock, a PIR detector which stops the hatch if it senses any movement and a lockable switch to prevent unauthorised operation of the control buttons. They also incorporate a rain sensor enabling them to automatically close if it rains, and thermostatically controlled trace heating elements to avoid condensation on the metal frame.Surespan designs and manufactures access hatches to suit all types of internal and external uses. Ranging from FACTA Class A to F loadings, their hatches are available in standard sizes or can be custom made to suit your needs. www.surespancovers.com


The ‘AV Hill’ Building at Manchester University is a £30M research centre shared between the Faculties of Life Sciences and Medical and Human Sciences. Designed by architects Wilson Mason and Partners, it houses 300 scientists in 50 research groups focussing mainly on neuroscience and immunology. The six-storey, 9,700m² complex façade is predominantly of VMZINC QUARTZ-ZINC® interlocking panels which require virtually no maintenance and have a BRE Green Guide A+ rating. The University’s ‘biomedical corridor’ connects the Core Technology Facility, Michael Smith and Stopford Buildings. Designed to achieve a BREEAM ‘very good’ and an EPC B rating, the building uses ‘bridge links’ at third floor level which are a feature within the atrium. The design approach generated for the building locates core laboratory facilities, shared by all building users at ground floor level. These incorporate a freezer farm and histology suite in addition to a large laboratory space for vibration sensitive equipment. The upper levels provide a generic laboratory space supported by a range of cellular spaces providing secondary research functions.The VMZINC Interlocking Panel system is fixed directly on wood or metal transverse purlins with a continuous ventilated air gap left behind the boarding on the entire facade. The building was named Archibald Vivian Hill, who won the 1922 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine while he held the Chair in Physiology at the University.


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steADmAnsPAneLsfeAtUReonnewoffICeDeVeLoPmentSteadmans’ composite roof and wall panels have been chosen for the building envelope of a brand new business centre comprising 15 offices in Cumbernauld, near Glasgow. Over 1,100 square metres of Steadmans’ 80mm thick AS35/1000 insulated panels were supplied for the Arca Business Centre. Contractor Main

(Design & Build) based at Dunning, near Perth carried out the installation on behalf of Murphy Young, which developed and now manages the centre.Gerard McHenry, Projects Director at Murphy Young, said: “We are delighted with the cladding materials that Main (D&B) specified for Arca. The quality of finish is excellent and overall the results have exceeded our expectations.” The deep profile of Steadmans’ AS35 panel brings to any roof or wall surface a clean, architectural shadowing which

complements the panel’s precise lines.AS35 panels are manufactured in a quality process certified to ISO 9001:2008 using non-ozone depleting technology. This provides designers with an environmentally responsible product with excellent thermal performance and a predicted service life of 40 years.

Steadmans’ AS35 panels are available in a wide range of colours and can be specified to achieve insulation U-values to aid compliance with the latest L2 regulations. The composite panels are also Loss Prevention Certification Board (LPCB) approved and fully compatible with all Steadmans’ other pre-engineered construction products such as gutters, flashings, rooflights and fixings.AS35 panels consist of two coated steel profiles bonded to a core of polyisocyanurate (PIR) insulation and may be used to form roofs down to a 4º pitch, and walls. The system offers rapid coverage and swift completion of a weather-proof building envelope to give a high performance building.For further information on Steadmans’ range of roofing and cladding products call Steadmans’ national sales team on 01697 478277, email: [email protected] or visit www.steadmans.co.uk.


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Dricon treated timber from Bates Timber is helping to fire protect the Corby Cube, a dramatic glass and concrete building housing Corby’s theatre, library, registry office and Council Chamber, as well as a one-stop-shop for council services.On behalf of Bates Timber, Arch Timber Protection supplied 320 square metres of birch plywood treated with their Dricon fire retardant to be used as both visible and concealed interior wall cladding in the iconic building.“Arch provided us with a full service from source to delivery, exactly to the specification of the architect,” said Peter Bates, Director, Bates Timber Merchants.“These plywood panels are not all visible once the building is complete, but they give a proven fire retardant protection in the background structure of the building,” says Jacqui Hughes, Arch Timber Protection’s Fire Retardant Sales Manager. “Dricon is the only BBA-certificated fire retardant treatment for timber and provides the perfect proven fire protection for interior applications such as this.”

Construction of the Corby Cube involved more than 2050 panes of glass and 15,500 tonnes of concrete. The building was the runner-up to the Beijing Olympic Swimming Pool in the LEAF Awards for the Best Public Building Design of the Year, and is the only theatre in the UK to have a BREEAM rating of ‘Excellent’. The building will provide performance and meeting space for local people, as well as access to local government services.


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SmartPly’s primed OSB (oriented strand board) product, SiteProtect, has been specified as the site hoarding for the extension and refurbishment of IKEA Birmingham (Wednesbury).After 20 years of trading, the IKEA Birmingham extension project, dubbed ‘The Bostin’ Build’, started in January and will improve the shopping experience it offers with some major changes, including a new entrance and exit area, new entrance lift, stairs and travelator, new crèche facility, double capacity seating area in the restaurant, a new Bistro eatery, a bigger Swedish food market, larger show room area, increased Market Hall space and a new self serve warehouse.For IKEA, the world’s leading home furnishing retailer, sustainability is an integrated part of their business and they have a broad long-term environmental and social programme. Supplied by

MeyerTimber.com Tilbury, the six packs of SmartPly SiteProtect from Coillte Panel Products provided IKEA with a high quality, primed site and security hoarding product, and its FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certification gave the retailer reassurance of SmartPly SiteProtect’s chain of custody and environmental sustainability.www.smartply.com/siteprotect


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This data centre in Scotland has been transformed with a new Kalwall skylight over the central atrium. The existing pyramidal roof was aging and leaking badly. Refurbishment involved reuse of the existing structure to install 1200mm wide panels of highly insulating Kalwall and to replicate the original shape. The result has been an immediate halving of the U value and a fivefold reduction in solar heat transmittance. Importantly, the whole ambience of the space has been greatly enhanced, even on cloudy days, because of the ability of the Kalwall daylighting system to distribute light evenly over the space below, while at the same time eliminating glare and shadows. www.stoakes.co.uk


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When artist Will Nash was commissioned by Impact Art and West Sussex County Council to develop a ‘welcome’ and wayfinding signage scheme for the campus of two new schools – Southway Primary and The Regis School in Bognor Regis – he decided to take a fresh approach. Working in collaboration with students from the two schools and Signbox Ltd, the UK’s leading wayfinding sign manufacturers, Nash was able to develop a scheme that spans from tiny enamel door signs, through environmental graphics and wayfinding, to the two steel chevron sculptures that stand in front of each school, the largest of which weighs over two tons.The wayfinding theme chosen was centred on the way in which people orient themselves in physical spaces and navigate from place to place. The project brief stipulated that the results, in and around the two schools, must reflect the difference in scale and user, yet share a common thread. The chosen common thread was an arrow shape, woven through the sculptures and signs; it is consistently used from the main entrance signs, pictograms, room numbers, area/year identity graphics and murals together with direction signs across the entire campus. Nash’s inspirational vision for the wayfinding sign design was a critical element to the overall success of the project, enriching the lives of the students, residents and the local community. Signbox were able to translate this vision for the scheme into a practical modular sign system to meet both aesthetic and durability requirements within a busy working school environment. Signbox also provide accessible, DDA-compliant signs for educational institutions, with a number of specialist processes that include information display in tactile and Braille formats. www.signbox.co.uk


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The romance of the beach house is undeniable, but even the most beautifully constructed designs, such as those by Lissett Homes for a seaside leisure park operated by The Haulfryn Group, must withstand the harsh realities of a coastal climate. Furthermore in today’s cultural climate of sustainability, quality construction must also aim for both optimal energy-efficiency and indoor comfort. So the newest holiday homes at The Warren in Abersoch benefit from an air-tight, thermally efficient, weather-proof envelope courtesy of advanced membranes from DuPont Building Innovations. In fact, the superior specifications for these ultra-desirable chalets exceed the regulations for holiday home construction, aiming for the highest standards of sustainability, reliability and comfort.The ‘holistic’ overview was for the building envelope to work in harmony with features such as a heat recovery system and this involved the optimising combination of DuPont™ Tyvek® breather membranes (in two different types) and DuPont™ AirGuard® air and vapour control layer to create a durable barrier against wind, water and interstitial condensation. The lightweight timber frame structures were assembled and sealed off site and delivered to Haulfryn ready for smart interior finishing and external landscaping.DuPont™ Tyvek® Enercor Roof and DuPont™ Reflex Wall (both metallised for high reflectivity and very low emissivity) offer excellent protection against radiant heat loss in winter and excessive gains in summer, and are reliably water-tight while allowing any trapped

interstitial vapour to diffuse through the unique membrane structure. In partnership with DuPont™ AirGuard®, a metallised layer with even lower emissivity which prevents air and vapour leakage from the interior into the structure, these products significantly enhance the integrity and thermal performance of a building. Andy Prescott, Head of Operations at Lissett Homes, comments, “Using this advanced combination of membranes within the construction for this type of build is a first and will create a lodge that outperforms most new build houses, while creating a stylish, efficient, low-carbon building with all the luxuries one would expect at such a prestigious site as The Warren.”While most of this technology will be out of sight for relaxing holiday-makers, their benefits, not just in terms of greater enjoyment of the property, but also for long term economy and sustainability, will play a significant contribution to this coastal leisure park development.


BRIGhtfUtURefoRsChooL’ssPoRtswIthKInGsPAnwALL-LIteSporting pupils at a new all-through school can look forward to a bright future following the opening of their state-of-the-art Sports Hall, where a revolutionary architectural wall panel

from Kingspan Insulated Panels has been used to make the most of natural light and reduce CO2 emissions. At the sports hall which will be used by pupils of St John’s RC Academy and community, energy savings will be made through the use of Kingspan insulated panels for the wall envelope – a combination of Kingspan KS1000 Micro-Rib in a Pearl, Kingspan Spectrum finish and translucent Wall-Lite, while Kingspan KS1000 FL panels in a blue finish were used extensively throughout other areas. The

innovative Wall-Lite panel provides natural daylight without compromising a building’s thermal efficiency, offering excellent interior levels of natural light while maintaining U-values of 1.26 W/m2K. The panels are factory pre-engineered to provide a single-fix, easy-to-install solution for new build or refurbishment projects.


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Repairing a bridge is a meticulous task that requires the combination of precision engineering with materials that offer proven strength and performance. The historic Scarborough Bridge required extensive renovation work to the decking and walkways supports. The solution involved Timbmet sourcing specialist Ekki timber, a dark heartwood which grows on the West coast of Africa and which is renowned for its strength, durability and resistance to decay. The original

construction of the bridge involved the edge timbers being spliced to the main support beams, but over time, these began to sag, with heavy corrosion affecting the safety and strength of the connections holding the timber in place. Timbmet’s manufacturing team took on the task of sourcing the timber and accurately machining the beams allowing the connections to fit precisely.


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The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst (RMAS) is world famous as the British Army Officer training centre. The tough regime endured by the cadets takes its toll on clothing and equipment, and to ensure that everything is kept pristine – and to cut running costs - the Academy has upgraded its laundry facilities using equipment from Electrolux Laundry Systems. The self service laundry facilities are located in the cadet accommodation blocks and are for personal laundry requirements.The upgrade involved the installation of 308 ELS machines, split between W455 5.5kg washers and matching T4130 dryers. In terms of space saving, a huge advantage was that the ELS machines can be stacked, minimising the area they take up. With such a large amount of laundry needing to be cleaned on a daily basis, water and energy saving features were a priority and the ELS equipment easily met the grade.


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Sika Watertight Concrete is being used on the Pods, a high quality, futuristic leisure centre, that is nearing completion in Scunthorpe. This unique structure is made up with a collection of five giant timber framed domes. The swimming pool and training pool, the surrounding slab and the filter/plant room are constructed using Sika Watertight Concrete, to ensure total watertightness. Tarmac have supplied 600m3 of Sika Watertight Concrete. The Sika watertight Concrete admixture was added to the concrete in water-soluble bags designed to make production of the concrete much easier and quicker. The bags are simply added to the concrete mix through the back of the ready mix truck prior to leaving the plant. Construction joints are being sealed with the SikaSwell® jointing system, which consists of joint sealing profiles that expand on contact with water to seal any voids between adjoining concrete slabs and walls. www.sikawatertightconcrete.co.uk


ConCeALeDAUtomAtIonswInGsDooRsoPenfoRshoPPeRsThe new ‘Destination Dining’ area of one of the UK’s largest shopping centres, thecentre:mk located in Milton Keynes, features a bank of minimalist swing glass doors automated by concealed TORMAX iMotion® 1401 underfloor operators. Creating an entrance with aesthetically clean lines, the motors are mounted in sealed casings in the floor allowing the doors to swing silently open without the need for any external linkage. Incorporating highly sophisticated technology, iMotion® 1401 synchronous motors have no abrading parts to cause friction-wear, so on-going reliability and a long life expectancy is assured. TORMAX supplied their technologically advanced underfloor operators to four sets of swing doors, providing prestigious yet highly functional access to an external square in the centre of shops. Simple to install, the operator is compatible with a standard 240v electrical supply and requires only minimal ongoing maintenance.


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Photography courtesy of Lissett Homes

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The Mathematics Research Centre and Astronomy Unit at the Queen Mary University of London, draws academic visitors from all over the world. Being one of the largest mathematical science departments in the UK, the re-development of the department encompassed a visually stunning façade designed and manufactured by Aliva that would meet the high expectations of the students and visitors to the facilities. The Queen Mary has a clear view of London’s impressive architecture; “The Gherkin” and Canary Wharf are clearly visible. It was therefore vital, that the façade on the foyer extension at the entrance of the university department lived up to its neighborhood profile.Aliva worked with Wilkinson Eyre Architects from the early stages of the design of the building to help develop a visually stunning façade, using the Ali Glass system also incorporating a bespoke curtain walling system. The plinth section was completed using the Ali HPLS high pressure laminate system and the areas around the foyer in a white rendered finish.The new entrance to the department takes the form of a single storey structure with Ali Glass panels, the form of which has been generated by a pattern developed by the famous mathematician, Sir Roger Penrose. As well as creating the geometry of the glass panels, a smaller scale subset of Penrose tiling is also applied to the other panels of glass as a graphic pattern. Aliva also designed the bespoke curtain walling system, with large inclined glass panels across which the pattern continues. The facade includes laminated glass in a rhomboid shape, with a side length of 1.2m, the inner glass layer being 10mm thick, the outer panel 6mm thick with a clear SGP interlayer between. There is a screen print featuring 3 different RAL colours on the

outer surface. Ali Glass anchors have been used to invisibly fix into the back of the inner glass panel. The weight of the glass panels and substructure is aprroximately 50 kg/m2. High performance K15 phenolic installation was used to insulate the building.The substructure comprises of Aluminium fasteners and horizontal mullions fixed to vertical Ali 2 box sections, held by U brackets into a 200mm Concrete substrate. The glass façade has various inclinations, which the substructure is able to accommodate. The backing structure is capable of working with various complex designs such as the Penrose pattern, and can be designed to pick up fixing points, to minimize the amount of structure required. The adjustable substructure meant that installation is quick and simple, and makes tile removal and joint set out straightforward. The bespoke curtain walling system designed by Aliva consists of inclined glass panels up to 4m high. Stainless steel pressure plates are included to cope with wind loads. The curtain walling and rainscreen are designed so that the finish between the two is flush. As an extension to the already reputable Queen Mary University of London, the building promises to set another standard for landmarks in the area. www.alivauk.com www.gruppoivas.com


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A huge stone built barn situated near Holmfirth in a lovely countryside full of steep slopes and wooded defiles, was built in 1683 to store grain and hay and, more importantly, to shelter livestock from the harsh Peak District winters. Like so many others of its kind it now shelters people instead of cattle having been converted in 1997 into seven dwellings of various sizes. One of the largest, taking up one end of the barn, has been made into a beautiful and spacious home with only one major problem, the cost of heating.

An oil-fired boiler of traditional design had been installed at the time of conversion and was reasonably effective but, to judge from exorbitant fuel bills, anything but energy efficient. The last straw came when the owner saw the price of heating oil jump from 42p to 72p per litre over the space of only eight weeks. He decided enough was enough and started to look for alternative ways to provide heat for his radiator driven central heating system and hot water for all purposes including one general bathroom and three others en suite.

He called in Warmway of Dewsbury, expert in renewable energy methods and a registered NIBE VIP installer, who suggested an air sourced heating system that would slash fuel costs, cut carbon emissions to an absolute minimum and be comparatively cheap to install into the bargain. Being MCS registered, Warmway were able to access Government funded grants and was therefore able to design a system, readily accepted by the customer, that is affordable and ecologically sound as well as extremely fuel efficient. It consists of two NIBE F2015 Heat Pumps situated in the yard outside the back door of the barn and linked to a VPA Accumulator Tank with a UKV200 Buffer vessel to offer greater hot water capacity.

The heat pumps generate energy from the outside air utilising a heat exchange process that squeezes the last drop of energy from the atmosphere thanks to new super efficient scroll compressors that will operate effectively even at temperatures down to the lowest ever recorded in the UK. Proof of the installation’s efficiency is that although the original oil-fired boiler was retained as a back up system, it was never needed in this last exceptionally cold winter. The generated energy is passed from the heat pumps into the accumulator tank and buffer, both using the latest in insulation techniques to ensure that hard earned energy is not wasted before being circulated to heat both water and home.

The owner of this beautiful Peak District barn conversion is delighted with his new NIBE renewable energy system, basking in the glow of satisfaction that comes from being as ‘green’ as the grass that grows around him. An even greater sense of satisfaction comes from paying fuel bills that are affordable once more thanks to heating that is conjured out of thin air.


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LInDAPteR’sDesIGnsPeCIfIeDAtGAtwICKAIRPoRtThe steelwork fixing specialist Lindapter designed a unique high capacity support assembly to secure a new baggage system to existing steel beams as part of the £31m Gatwick North Terminal baggage handling upgrade. The brief required a method of connecting vertical SHS hollow sections with stiffened end plates to various types of structural sections, including castellated beams, whilst delivering a safe working load capacity of 250kN per connection. Lindapter’s technical support engineers proposed the use of Type AF24 clamps with grade 10.9 bolts in a bespoke hanger assembly. The design fulfilled the significant load requirements and vibration considerations, and also removed the need to drill or modify existing steel beams, thereby allowing a faster installation.

Lindapter’s drawings and calculations were presented to the consulting civil & structural engineers who approved and specified the Lindapter connection for use at the UK’s second largest airport. During installation, the ease of adjusting the Lindapter fixings simplified the precise alignment of the baggage system, despite being suspended from various sized beams throughout the span of the upgrade. A further advantage at the construction phase was that a hot working permit was not needed, removing any associated and potentially costly construction delays.

Gatwick is the latest in a number of airport projects, including Doha and Dublin T2, to utilise Lindapter components and assemblies, with typical applications including securing structural steel, aluminium curtain walling and suspending building services. Lindapter’s high strength Type AF fixings are approved by TÜV Nord, verifying the tensile performance of a four bolt girder clamp configurations of up to 250kN and 70kN in friction. An international distribution network provides worldwide availability of sizes M12-M24, supplied hot dip galvanised as standard for extra corrosion protection. www.lindapter.com


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Tanalith E wood preservative is protecting the new wooden poles holding up Macedonia’s Museum on Water, a reconstruction of a prehistoric palafitte settlement built over Lake Ohrid. Palafittes, also known as stilt houses or pile dwellings, are houses built on timber piles over water or above the ground.The Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Macedonia contracted Bulgarian company Uvix Impregnation to treat the timber, and over five months the company used Tanalith E to protect around 660 cubic metres of oak poles. These were then driven into the lake bottom to carry the timber platforms and buildings. The Museum on Water is part of the National Institution Institute for Protection of Monuments of Culture is situated in the Bay of the Bones, on the southeast coast of Lake Ohrid. The reconstruction of the settlement is part of a new museum complex including a museum building, diving centre and the Gradishte, a Roman military garrison town. The reconstructed buildings used a combination of timber, clay, animal skins and reeds, offering visitors a realistic look at how prehistoric families once lived in Macedonia over 5,500 years ago.


DuPont and Disney® showcased at “Padiglione Visconti”. “TRON designs CORIAN®” is an exhibition inspired by the film “TRON: Legacy” from Walt Disney Studios. The overall effect and expression of “TRON: Legacy” has inspired many artists and designers across fashion, music, design and technology. From the original Daft Punk soundtrack, to exclusive apparel and designer jewellery, to the brand-new videogame “TRON: Evolution”, the world of “TRON” has become a lifestyle phenomenon. “TRON designs CORIAN®” is an original design project art directed by DuPont and Disney® and created using DuPont™ Corian® high-tech surface for a surprising scenography. The exhibition focuses on three main elements from “TRON: Legacy”: Flynn’s Arcade, the Light Cycle and the Safe House. Each has been interpreted exploiting the properties, beauty and the sensorial qualities of DuPont™ Corian®. www.tron-designs-corian.com


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Southwark has experienced significant regeneration in recent decades, with Bankside in particular home to such iconic developments as the Tate Modern, Shakespeare’s Globe and the Millennium Bridge. This year sees a new neighbour on the block, NEO Bankside. This stunning 1.5 acre development of luxury apartments, penthouses and retail units, will provide 229 residential units in five separate buildings that range from six to 24 storeys. The apartments vary in size from studios and one-bedroom to four-bedroom units, with larger duplex unit penthouses. These are designed as independent pavilion structures and double-height living areas are made possible by the sloping roof plane. Winter gardens are an additional feature, creating a ‘prow’ effect at the north and south end of each building. Waterman is providing structural engineering and environmental consultancy on the project, which has been designed by project architect, Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners (RSHP).

On this occasion it was Waterman who developed the structural system and final geometry, which comprises external stability bracing arranged on a six-storey staggered dia-grid. Each building comprises a concrete frame of columns and flat slabs, but the frames are stabilised to resist lateral forces by a perimeter bracing system positioned just out-board of the cladding. For aesthetics, individual bracing members are steel oval-hollow sections, which actually provide greater structural efficiency under certain critical loading conditions. The bracing has a dual function, not only resisting lateral building loads but also supporting the triangular winter-gardens via a series of apex ‘nodes’.

Protection against thermal bridging The entire construction presented significant structural challenges and this extended to the serious demands made on the requirement for protection against thermal bridging. This is where Schöck Ltd played a major part with its Isokorb® thermal break modules. The modules offer outstanding thermal insulation properties and dramatically reduce thermal energy loss in connective areas by guaranteeing the homogeneity of the thermal envelope between cantilever structures and the internal slab. They also transfer load and maintain full structural integrity, while at the same time enabling inner surface area temperatures to remain well in excess of those likely to cause mould formation and condensation.

In addition to their exceptional thermal performance ratings, the Schöck Isokorb® range of modules are the only products of their type to allow connectivity between concrete-to-concrete, concrete-to-steel and steel-to-steel – and also provide BBA Certification and LABC Registration. For the NEO Bankside project, various configurations of the type K Isokorb®, for concrete-to-concrete construction were incorporated, plus the type KST. This is usually a steel-to-steel connection, but has been adapted on this occasion for concrete-to-steel connectivity. The two main structural challenges involved the winter gardens and the level above, the penthouse mezzanine winter gardens. The winter gardens are triangular spaces between the columns and the hangers, which support the points at both ends of the building. These are essentially outside spaces, so the slab requires

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a thermal break between the winter gardens and the main slab. Also, the hangers are not fire protected, so in the event of a fire, the winter garden slabs will need to safely cantilever from the rest of the building. This meant the Schöck technical team had to resolve two load cases. In the first instance, where the winter gardens are supported by the hangers, this was relatively simple as only shear forces are involved and the standard type Q Isokorb® meets this requirement.

Structurally more challenging was the second load case. Should a fire destroy the hangers, and as a consequence turn the winter garden slabs into cantilevers, then a high bending moment as well as shear force would result. To meet this challenge Schöck designed and supplied bespoke thermal break connectors with a moment capacity of up to 200kNm/m. It was also clear that the fire strategy would require the Isokorbs to provide two hour fire protection and to achieve this Schöck incorporated the patented HPC thrust bearing block into the units.

The penthouse mezzanine winter gardens, which sit at the next level up, are steel structures with beams connected to the reinforced concrete slab. Conventionally the Schöck Isokorb® type KS, for concrete-to-steel, would be used in this situation, but the high forces acting at the connection meant that an adapted KST (for steel-to-steel connectivity) was the chosen solution. This involved the KST units being bolted to an endplate and then cast into the concrete.

Complete peace of mind for designers and engineersSchöck Isokorb® modules offer designers and engineers complete peace of mind, as all units meet full compliance with the relevant UK building regulations. The requirement described in BRE IP1/06 – a document cited in Building Regulations Approved Documents Part L1 and L2 and Section 6 in Scotland – that the temperature factor used to indicate condensation risk (fRSI) must be greater than, or equal, to 0.75 for dwellings and residential buildings, is easily met by incorporating the Isokorb®. There is also compliance with the Government Standard Assessment Procedure, SAP 2009, concerning CO2 emissions from buildings, and respectively heat losses through non-repeating thermal bridges.

Here, the lambda values of the Schöck Isokorb® enables energy loss through balconies, canopies and other cantilever parts of buildings to be reduced by as much as 84% to 91%. A 20 page ‘Specifiers Handbook‘ is available which provides an overview and introduction to the Schöck Isokorb®., and there is a comprehensive 236 page ‘Technical Guide’ which displays in detail the complete range of thermal break applications for all construction types – concrete-to-concrete, concrete-to-steel, steel-to-steel and concrete-to-timber. www.schoeck.co.uk


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tRextRAnsCenD®tRAnsfoRmsLAsVeGAssPAPatrons of the Red Rock Resort in Las Vegas, an exclusive casino, resort, and spa in the heart of the American desert, are now benefitting from an unusual and creative application of Trex Transcend® composite decking as part of the complex’s private spa area. The project contractor, Olympus Construction, has built screened partitions for guests, using Transcend deck boards stacked vertically to form privacy walls. Boards are supported every 16” with custom-made spacers, ensuring uniformity of design and a distinctive appearance.

Red Rock Resort selected high-performance Trex Transcend decking because of the product’s durability, designed to outlast and outperform wood, composite and PVC for decades. It requires very little maintenance, does not need sanding, staining or painting, and resists fading, stains, scratches and mold. It won’t rot, warp, crack or splinter, and it features a distinctive and natural-looking, high-definition wood grain pattern in rich, deep colours. For this installation, the project designers chose to use Trex Transcend decking in ‘Fire Pit’, a spicy red hue that complements the desert surroundings.

Transcend decking is made from 95 percent recycled content including plastic and wood waste, contributing to the LEED points of any residential or commercial structure, and making Trex an eco-friendly choice for high-performance outdoor living products. As part of the manufacturing process, Trex recycles 1.5 billion shopping bags each year and hasn’t felled a single tree during its 20-year history.

Already used extensively throughout Europe and the USA, Trex Transcend has just been launched in the UK, and encompasses a matching range of designer handrail and spindle options. It is backed by a 10 year guarantee and, when specified for residential applications, this is extended to a class-leading 25 years.

Trex Transcend is now available from independent merchants throughout the country, and is distributed exclusively in the UK by Arbordeck, one the UK’s leading manufacturers of innovative decking solutions. T. 01469 535 427 www.arbordeck.co.uk/trex


D R Services got clients out of a hole when the company undertook a major glass cladding project at a Palm House in a little village in Devon. The designer brought D R Services in after a wooden Glulam structure had been built with the intention of adding glass roofing and cladding. D R Services had to survey the structure and find a means to create the glass lid and walls. Just the surveying took three days of intensive work on site. An immense amount of work was involved in creating a three dimensional plan. The client wanted enormous single pieces of glass in the roof but this was impossible because of the way the structure curved. “This pushed us to our absolute limits,” said David Jarvis of D R Services. “We’ve had to deal with issues we’ve never dealt with before.”Each piece of glass had to be individually made, but despite the complexity, the company solved the problems and the walls and laminated glass roof are now in place. “Anybody looking at it in a logical fashion would get the whole project planned from the sub structure, the ground, rainwater disposal, footings and timber work designed in CAD before starting work,” said David Jarvis. “Once you’ve got the whole thing you can then issue orders to manufacturers. “If we’d been involved before the timber was made we could have achieved what the client wanted which was a totally sliding stacking glass wall to completely open up the wall. The trouble is once the timber was installed this was impossible. There was no clear line of sight to slide the wall. There was simply no route to take the glass through the timber. Slots had been put inside the uprights but were not in line.”

Given the huge problems the objective was to get as close to the aspirations of the client as possible. So once the lengthy measuring period was over the client was presented with a price to manufacture and install the glass. It took weeks to design the roof structure even using auto CAD Inventor software capable of producing full three dimensional drawings. This software could work out how it was possible to bend the glass and create a design that could really be manufactured. It was vital to do this, since most of the surfaces were not flat. Even surfaces that looked flat were not. D R Services installed all the glass, sourced from various manufacturers, as well as a lot of the ancillary equipment to help the project along. For example, the builder wasn’t keen on installing flashings and soakers so D R Services put those on the perimeter.“Nobody else gave the client a viable alternative,” said David Jarvis. “We were the only company that offered a way to clad the structure in glass. He took us on at our word that we were able to do it and we’ve done it.” www.drservices.co.uk,


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“the only company that offered a way to clad the structure in glass”

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