Pyramid Roof Lanterns: Eye-Catching Centrepiece. Daylight-Catching Solution.

Building Products Index Ltd Rooflights Leave a Comment

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The Brett Martin Pyramid Roof Lantern, available from Rooflights & Skylights, brings striking symmetry, exceptional thermal efficiency, and rapid installation to contemporary flat roof designs. With its square footprint and clean, pitched form, this lantern delivers evenly distributed natural light – while also serving as a dramatic architectural focal point, both inside and out. It’s ideal for residential, commercial, and public spaces – including atriums, stairwells, or central reception areas – where daylight performance and visual impact are equally critical.

Manufactured by Brett Martin with slender aluminium profiles, precision-cast ridge detailing, and neat sight lines, this rooflight offers architects a crisp, minimalist aesthetic, while providing contractors with a robust, installation-friendly solution. Available in three standard sizes – 1000 x 1000mm, 1500 x 1500mm and 2000 x 2000mm – with bespoke options typically delivered in 15–17 days, it mounts directly to a weathered builder’s upstand for a seamless fit and swift installation.

Key Benefits

  • Balanced daylighting: Pyramid geometry offers even natural light distribution across square-plan spaces.
  • Slim frame design: Clean lines and minimal visual obstruction suit both contemporary and heritage buildings.
  • Fast, clean installation: No need for site-applied silicone except at the roof junction.
  • Safety built-in: Laminated inner pane protects occupants in the unlikely event of a breakage.
  • High thermal performance: Thermally broken frame and Low-E double glazing reduce heat loss.
  • Rapid delivery: Standard sizes delivered in just 3–5 days, helping meet tight project schedules.
  • 10-year warranty: Long-term assurance for specifiers and building owners.

Specifications

  • Sizes: Standard – 1000x1000mm, 1500x1500mm, and 2000x2000mm. Bespoke sizes available (typical lead time 15–17 days).
  • Glazing: Clear or blue self-cleaning solar-control glass as standard; optional aqua and neutral solar-control finishes available.
  • Frame finishes: Powder-coated, both internally and externally, in a combination of three colours – RAL 7016 anthracite grey, RAL 9010 white, or RAL 9005 black.
  • Installation: Direct to weathered builder’s upstand; precision-engineered for efficient site installation.

Click for more info: https://www.rooflights-skylights.co.uk/brett-martin-roof-lantern-pyramid/

Design for the future

Building Products Index Ltd Tile backer boards Leave a Comment

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Complying to current and future legislation, making buildings future-proof and carbon-neutral is a key concern for architects and clients today. Innovative solutions that last the lifetime of the building and reduce the pressure on the planet are now taking centre stage. However, these are not always new technologies or products – while some solutions directly tackle specific challenges, others are more systemic, helping to create the conditions under which all other solutions can be adopted at a greater scale and pace. Implementing complementary innovations together can provide far more significant outcomes than implementing them in isolation.

Protecting the fabric of the building with reliable waterproofing has always been vital, but now, NHBC’s Technical Guidance 9.2/06 ‘Substrates for tiling bath and shower enclosures, wet rooms and bathroom pods’ reinforces this. In essence, any new home whose foundations begin on or after 1st January 2025 in the UK, must comply with this guidance if an NHBC warranty is to be provided.

In short, magnesium oxide boards must not be used, and in wet rooms or bathrooms with power shower, there are strict requirements; only tile backerboards that hold technical approvals acceptable by NHBC can be used.

Critically, whatever the subsurface, all tanking solutions must have appropriate 3rd party certificates such as a European Technical Assessment (ETA) and the tile, adhesive and grout should be compatible with the selected waterproofing system.

Does your new build project have a bathroom or a wet room? wedi has you covered.

100% waterproof and directly tileable XPS boards and shower formers manufactured by wedi hold all required certificates to comply with NHBC’s new guidance; from Environmental Product Declarations (EPD) and A+ VOC label, through the European Technical Approval (ETA), to CE, UKCA and UKNI markings. Furthermore they also comply with Building Regulations section M4(2) and M4(3).

Using renowned, waterproof XPS tilebacker boards to waterproof floor and wall surfaces in wet rooms and bathrooms, not only reduces installation steps and hence minimises the risk of failure, but together with clever accessories and interlocking XPS components such as floor-level shower elements, benches, niches and ready-to-use partition walls, also provides a floor-to-ceiling, systemised waterproofing solution. When installed correctly, they last the lifetime of the building in which they are installed.

Since September 2021, wedi has been part of the Ardex Group and therefore compatible grouts and adhesives can also be provided under one comprehensive, 10-year product warranty. One manufacturer, one responsibility – everything under the tiles, from a single source – so that architects can stay focused on the design.

Product characteristics such as 133kg/m2 vertical weight-load capability make the wedi building board a universal solution for all types of tiles, natural stone and slab coverings. Regardless of the selected tile format/size, in conjunction with reinforcement plates, they hold larger items such as floating washbasins, doors and radiators, meaning that multifunctional partition walls can also be created quickly and easily, ready-to-tile the next day.

Another advantage is the low U-value of 0.036 W/mK, that contributes to the thermal insulation of the room from the inside, therefore contributing to the energy efficiency of the home. This makes them perfect to use beneath under-tile-heating (UTH) systems of all kinds.

In 2025, compliance with the Future Homes Standard will become mandatory; all new homes built from this year are to be future-proofed with low carbon heating and world-leading levels of energy efficiency. Carbon emissions should be reduced to 75-80% less than previously accepted.

Whilst wedi XPS elements do not directly tackle such challenges, they create the conditions, under which other solutions can be adopted easier and faster. By cutting back on installation steps, such as tanking or priming for example, they reduce the required interfaces on site and hence accelerate the project progress. What’s more, used as a waterproof insulation beneath heating systems, they prevent heat-escape and hence improve heating systems’ response time by up to a staggering 70%!

At the forefront of innovation since 1983, wedi is doing everything possible to support energy-efficient, future-proof bathrooms. The current rise of heat pump operated water heating systems prompted the development of the wedi PreLine building board for example. The factory-cut precise grooves greatly reduce the risk of the pipe runs being accidentally damaged as well as ensure the even placement of pipes as close to the surface as possible. It is equally suited to floor or wall applications.

Furthermore, wedi also offers a multitude of floor-level shower elements in different formats -whether it be linear or point drainage, a standard, rectangular or a round, maybe a shell-shape with matching free-standing walls, the wedi Fundo range has the right product for your project. Why not check out the newest member of the range? The Fundo Flex provides an entirely new concept for shower design – it fully adapts to requirements, allowing for an exacting design without the drawbacks. Drain location as a prime concern in shower design? It is now a thing of the past.

www.wedi.net

Seek expert advice to avoid costly project delays

Building Products Index Ltd Brick slip cladding, Cladding Leave a Comment

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Ensuring the correct materials are delivered on time is crucial for keeping projects on schedule. However, progress on-site can still be delayed if design and installation details have not been thoroughly planned. Richard Haines, director of Eurobrick Systems, has seen this happen many times, and it often leads to an increase in on-site costs.

Eurobrick is the UK’s longest-established supplier of brick slip cladding systems, having been in business since 1990. Its estimating and technical team have a wealth of experience which enables them to offer effective design reviews, comprehensive take-offs and accurate estimates, providing an invaluable service during project planning.

Richard Haines commented, “Providing us with intended design details at an early stage gives us a chance to identify any proposals which could present difficulties in practice. Our experience across all sectors means we can offer assistance to overcome such issues, often leading to savings in material cost, as well as smoother progress during installation on site. Our input at the design and specification stages can offer real value.”

As well as providing a review of details and estimating, Eurobrick also provide training for installers and technical support at all stages of a project. This comprehensive service has enabled some of Eurobrick’s clients to undertake ambitious projects using brick slips. Here are just a few of them…

Marks & Spencer’s Brixton

This Brixton store is a landmark location for M&S as it was their first London branch which opened in 1903. A recent major refurbishment required significant technical input and materials planning/management from Eurobrick. The M&S design team wanted to re-instate a brick finish to the original railway arches. Following detailed consultation, Eurobrick supplied six large bespoke brick slip arch soffits and six rowlock arches as well as its I-Clad system and specially cut brick slips for installation. Find out more here.

Imperial War Museum

This impressive three-storey building was a modular construction finished with Eurobrick’s P-Clad brick slip rainscreen system. The design included brick soffits and cills and brick slips and headers cut to different thicknesses to create a relief effect. This level of complexity required Eurobrick to carry out a detailed take-off to provide an accurate estimate. Eurobrick was responsible for the ordering of bespoke materials and components and ensuring that these were supplied on time. Find out more here.

Scala Court

This mixed-use residential development had an interesting design with triangular oriel type windows spanning the first and second floors. Achieving this design was only possible using a brick slip system. Eurobrick’s experienced estimators reviewed the plans and provided a detailed breakdown of the numbers of specially cut stretcher and corner brick slips that would be required in addition to its P-Clad system. P-Clad is lightweight compared to traditionally constructed masonry which made the distinctive window design details possible. You can find out more here.

The versatility of brick slips has been proven time and again over the years. If you have a complex project and would like some help finding solutions for particular brick finishes or bespoke detailing then Eurobrick have the expertise to help. You can contact Eurobrick at info@eurobrick.co.uk, call 0117 971 7117 or visit their website at www.eurobrick.co.uk for more information.

Wavin Launches Dedicated Installer Network

Building Products Index Ltd Heating, underfloor heating Leave a Comment

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Leading drainage and plumbing manufacturer Wavin, has launched a brand new Installer Network providing practical and technical support for underfloor heating, ventilation, and heat recovery installers.

The Wavin Installer Network (WIN) is a free to join initiative that enables installers to gain access to expert guidance, bespoke training, and priority technical support.

WIN members will receive a dedicated Wavin support expert to assist with project requirements, technical solutions, and on-site support. Additional benefits include promotional opportunities through Wavin’s marketing channels and branded workwear.

Installers listed on WIN will also benefit from increased visibility, as homeowners and developers can search for accredited professionals in their area through the platform.

Martyn Neil, Business Development Manager for Indoor Climate Solutions at Wavin said: ‘The launch of the Wain Installer Network marks a significant step in making sustainable, energy-efficient solutions more accessible – through helping the trade. By joining the WIN, installers can expand their market through bespoke training and enhance their skills and knowledge, while also benefitting from recognition and promotion as a trusted Wavin partner’.

Wavin are committed to helping professional installers and developers deliver the energy-efficient and lower-carbon homes demanded by our net-zero commitments and by the Future Homes and Buildings Standards.

Case Study: Newcastle United Football Club enhances fans’ experience with Stannah escalators

Building Products Index Ltd Escalator Leave a Comment

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Newcastle United Football Club, a cherished home for generations of fans since 1892, has introduced two new escalators as part of a refurbishment of its on-site merchandising outlet.

Through close collaboration with Newcastle United Football Club, the Stannah Major Projects team designed and delivered a bespoke escalator system, offering seamless transportation and significantly enhancing user experience.

Open seven days a week, the club’s refurbishment plans aim to celebrate and preserve its rich history and heritage while showcasing its widest range of football kits and merchandise, introduced as part of its £30 million partnership with Adidas.

The works

The project entailed a full refurbishment of the club’s shop following a £30m deal with Adidas as NUFC’s official kit supplier. This included removing the existing escalator, and designing and installing two new escalators to integrate with the updated layout.

Stannah Lift Services worked alongside 442 Design, a leading interior design company, to ensure the new escalators would seamlessly integrate into the architectural framework. Together, they identified necessary structural changes, including adjustments to the pit area to address conflicts between the stadiums’ structural supports and the original layout.

Stannah also carried out a detailed evaluation of the existing escalator and its surrounding infrastructure to find the best and safest removal solution. While the client liaised and initiated the removal with the demolition company, Stannah removed key components, such as the steps and drive unit, to facilitate easier manoeuvring of the escalator sections.

The challenge

The client set a tight budget and a strict timescale in order for the work to be completed in a timely manner and offer value to NUFC fans. To address this, Stannah provided detailed guidance on an escalatorlution that met the building and shop layout requirements while balancing cost and efficiency.

Stannah faced other challenges as logistics were disrupted due to conflicts impacting the Suez Canal, which made it unsafe and inaccessible for ships to pass through. As a result, logistic companies were forced to reroute deliveries around the Cape of Good Hope, causing significant delays in the delivery of materials. To mitigate further delays and to meet the store opening deadline, Stannah increased on-site labour resources to ensure the installation, commissioning and testing proceeded as planned.

The integration of the new escalators also demanded technical precision to address structural modifications to ensure the installation aligned seamlessly with the architectural framework and complied with rigorous safety standards. Extensive testing was conducted by Stannah’s engineers to confirm the escalators’ safety and performance, ensuring they met the BS115 standard.

Stannah provided comprehensive training on escalator operation, maintenance and safety to the building management team and store staff, providing all the skills and knowledge needed to manage and operate the systems efficiently.

The escalator solution

Stannah proposed the installation of two new A2C escalators to improve traffic flow between the ground and shop’s mezzanine levels, ensuring seamless access and greater convenience for users.

With a high-quality design, the escalators’ design focused on minimising friction, vibration and noise, delivering a smooth and quiet ride capable of efficiently managing increased foot traffic during peak periods.

To maximise energy efficiency and to provide flexibility on how the client would like to use the escalators, Stannah provided features such as stop-and-start technology and reduced speed operation so they can choose the correct operational philosophy to suit their current or future requirements. Star/delta bypass was also provided which provides redundancy in case of VVVF inverter failure.

Stannah’s A2C escalator package is a reliable solution for commercial, retail, hotel and office environments. With a rise of 3.0 to 15.8 metres and speeds ranging from 0.5 to 0.75 metres per second, these escalators are finished with a glass balustrade and natural anodised aluminium handrail guide frames for a modern and durable design.

Ryan Robson, Head of Projects, at Newcastle United Football Club, said: “The new escalators are a step forward to improving the efficiency of foot traffic around the NUFC. Stannah’s expertise and attention to detail throughout the process, from design to installation, were incredible. Their ability to deliver a solution tailored to our needs and manage challenges swiftly has been beneficial to the completion of this project.”

John Metcalfe, Project Delivery Manager at Stannah Lifts, said: “This project was an exciting opportunity to showcase our expertise in delivering tailored escalator solutions that seamlessly integrate into unique architectural environments. By collaborating closely with the client, we were able to address their specific requirements for increased foot traffic, while incorporating energy-saving features like the VVVF drive system.”

All of Stannah’s escalators are fully compliant with the latest British Standards, including BS5656 and BS115, and are equipped with the latest passenger safety features.

Find out more information on escalators and moving walkways or contact Stannah for a range of lift products and services at www.stannahlifts.co.uk.

Kinedo Launches Stylish New Solutions for Contemporary Bathrooms

Building Products Index Ltd Bathrooms, Showers Leave a Comment

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Kinedo continues to innovate in bathroom design with the launch of three exciting product updates – the elegant Kinediva cuttable shower tray, refreshed Kinewall decorative wall panels, and a new collection of walk-in enclosures.

Perfect for both new builds and renovations, the new Kinediva tray is available in 17 sizes and three matt finishes – marine blue, beige and white – with a sleek 35mm profile and colour-matched waste cover. It’s cuttable on all four sides and can be installed flush, on the floor or on raised feet. With anti-slip coating and up to 24l/min drainage, Kinediva combines beauty, durability and accessibility.

Kinedo has also expanded its Kinewall range with bold new designs, including Pebble Grey, Bronze Marble, and statement patterns like Giraffe and Frangipani. Lightweight, easy to cut, and quick to install, these grout-free, waterproof panels are ideal for high-moisture areas and come with a 10-year warranty.

Finally, Kinedo’s updated Solo walk-in enclosures feature the striking Solo Design + range, available in five frame finishes and six glass styles – including fluted and patterned glass options for added privacy and impact. All panels are treated with anti-limescale protection and designed for flexible left/right installation.

Together, these new additions provide comprehensive, stylish bathroom solutions from a single trusted supplier.

 www.kinedo.co.uk

Innovative, certified and built to spec – here’s how we took a bespoke access panel from a concept, achieving certification, to being delivered, all in just 90 days.

Building Products Index Ltd Access Panels Leave a Comment

View the PALCO entry on BPindex

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The Challenge

We were approached by a major data centre project in Sweden to design and develop a large custom panel that provided safe, efficient access within the facility’s high-traffic corridors while meeting crucial reaction to fire, air pressure and security requirements.

Conventional downward-opening access panels reduce clearance, present opening challenges with high ceilings and can require considerable physical effort to operate – especially with larger panels. Our goal was to design a solution that maximised space, was easy to open while still meeting all strict project requirements.

Our Solution

Through close collaboration with our design team and key project stakeholders, we went from an initial concept to full certification in just 90 days. The proposed panel would open upwards with a telescopic friction stay to reduce physical strain and improve ease of access, with insulation to improve its thermal and acoustic properties. A neoprene seal would be added to keep the panel airtight with a secure 3-point euro profile locking system to reinforce protection.

With two dedicated manufacturing facilities, we have the capacity to produce fully bespoke panels within days, allowing us to meet strict project deadlines without compromising on quality. The panel then achieved class 2 air pressure and reaction to fire certification before starting mass production, ready for dispatch.

We’re incredibly proud of our involvement with this project – we didn’t just create an access panel, we created a solution that will support ongoing operations in one of Sweden’s most important infrastructure environments for years to come.

Showcasing Solutions at Data Centre World 2025

In March, we exhibited at DCW25 and were overwhelmed by the positive reaction to our innovative access solutions. We were approached by many companies with an involvement in high-profile building projects who confirmed something we’ve known for a while:

Projects require more than just compliant products – they need partners and suppliers who can adapt, respond and deliver. That became clear from the volume of conversations we had about projects beyond the data centre scope.

From student accommodation to large scale infrastructure projects, we support projects of all sizes with the same attention to detail and flexibility. Our team is ready to collaborate with you from design to delivery, creating access solutions that tick every box: compliance, quality and performance.

From access panels, riser doors, loft hatches and meter overboxes – we’re ready to work together to support your next project.

Visit our website for more information.

Call us on 024 7518 7518 to discuss your next project.

KEIM – sustainable products to repair and protect concrete

Building Products Index Ltd Mineral Silicate Paint, Paint Leave a Comment

View the KEIM entry on BPindex

Visit the KEIM website

Concrete … a building material of choice for many due to its structural strength, cost effectiveness, and rugged good looks; often chosen to help control heating and cooling of a building to incorporate efficiency and sustainability into the design. But it can have its limitations. What happens when that once fresh finish starts to degrade, weather or requires repair? How do you ensure the surface and substrate last for years if not decades to come?

Here’s where KEIM can help. Known for their mineral eco-friendly paints for interior and exterior decoration, they also have a range of products specifically designed for concrete.

Whether you’re working on a new project, undertaking a repair, or simply looking to protect the surface from decay, KEIM has a product to suit.

What are the common problems that affect concrete?

There are three key concerns connected with concrete;

  • Carbonation – this occurs when the surface begins to decay. It’s caused by carbon dioxide, sulphates from vehicle exhaust fumes, or chlorides from de-icing salts. Carbonation can affect the structural strength of the substrate. Not great if the structure is a bridge!
  • Repairs – remedial repairs are commonplace but can be problematical and lead to a patchwork effect, or colour variants.
  • Protection – against the ingress of water or driving rain, which can lead to structural damage.

How can KEIM help?

In short, their products help unify the look of the concrete (overcoming colour variants or imperfections) while offering a long lasting, breathable protection.

What products do they have?

Products for cleaning, reinstatement, and repair as well as protection. They also have a concrete wash for those that want to experiment with design or colour!

Concretal W – Water repellent for protection against weathering and water. Lightfast, matt surface, antistatic, non-flammable.

Concretal C – Waterproof protection against carbonation and chlorides.

Concretal Lasur – Acts as a stain to equalise colour variations while maintaining the structure and appearance of concrete.

Concretal – Black. Provides a matt black, ultra chic finish in five shades to add drama and visual impact.

Where have KEIM been used?

You name it! From bridges (Sheffield Parkway supertram) to tunnels (London Underground), leisure sites (Dudley Zoo, Olympic Park) to prisons (HMP Five Wells), from retail (John Lewis) to education (Bristol University); the products are ideal for any concrete project.

KEIM unifies uneven or variable finishes and offers protection.

What are the key benefits of KEIM’s concrete range;

  • Easy to apply
  • Long last protection
  • Fire resistant to A2-s1, d0
  • Ideal for interior or exterior use
  • Cradle to Cradle Certification
  • Evens out imperfections
  • Maintains breathability of the substrate

Interested to find out more?

Get in touch to arrange your free site visit, site trials, or colour matching service.

View KEIM’s profile on Bpi – https://www.bpindex.co.uk/supplier/4136/keim-mineral-paints-ltd/

Find out more https://www.keim.com/en-gb/products/concrete-systems/

KEIM – unparalleled performance and durability since 1878.

Tel: 01952 231 250       Web:  https://www.keim.com/en-gb/      Email: sales@keimpaints.co.uk.

Social Links:

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/keim_uk/

Pintrest https://in.pinterest.com/KEIMMineralPaints/

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/keim-mineral-paints-ltd/

Stylish surfaces “Made in Germany”

Building Products Index Ltd bathroom accessories, Bathrooms Leave a Comment

View the HEWI entry on BPindex

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HEWI offers new surfaces using the environmentally friendly PVD process for maximum individuality in the bathroom.

More glamour in the bathroom: Brass, bronze or gold are just some of the new metallic designer surfaces from HEWI that can be used to transform contemporary sanitary rooms into personalised oases of well-being – be it in hotels, in representative public buildings, in elective surgery areas in hospitals or in the bathroom at home. Altogether, the manufacturer is offering four new standard and eight new special colours for its accessible sanitaryware and accessories, all manufactured in the PVD process. This allows for even more diversity and scope for bathroom planning.

Timelessness, elegance, style – this is what the new designer surfaces from HEWI stand for. With its sanitary systems and accessories, HEWI transforms sanitary areas and private bathrooms into feel-good spaces with that certain something extra.

Colours and surfaces are a particularly suitable element in planning to design sanitary rooms that are in tune with the atmosphere of the surrounding architecture. Be it cool, calming, warm or revitalising – HEWI offers new, inspiring colours and surfaces for selected ranges and systems to suit every customised design.

Decorative and durable

Brass, bronze, gold or black chrome, with the finish options of brushed or glossy – the new metallic designer surfaces offer a wide range of choices. They are highly decorative and emotionally appealing. But behind the fine, shimmering surfaces lie extremely robust and resistant properties. The PVD surfaces are corrosion-resistant, making them ideal for sanitary rooms or rooms with high humidity. They also have durable properties such as hardness and scratch resistance. HEWI offers a total of 4 new standard and 8 new special colours.

Creative planning scope

In order to enable consistent bathroom design in the planning phase, HEWI has also adapted the high-quality design surfaces to the standard surfaces of leading fitting manufacturers. In our own assortment, the metallic surfaces are available for selected products from the S900, S 900 Q and S 162 ranges and systems.

Providing the proof – the role of the manufacturer

Building Products Index Ltd Blocks, Concrete Leave a Comment

View the H+H entry on BPindex

Visit the H+H website

In an era where the accuracy of product descriptions is right in the spotlight, it’s worth considering what you can expect from a supportive manufacturer.

Responsible manufacturers have recognised for years that it is not enough simply to describe the technical performance of a product. Specifiers can now expect to see detailed information on the context in which the product is used, from health and safety advice to embodied carbon. H+H is one manufacturer that has embraced the demand for comprehensive information.

Energy performance: The Future Homes Standard (FHS)

After years of consultation and gradual movement, FHS is set to come into force this year, paving the way for new homes to be zero carbon.

During the decades that the energy efficiency of new homes has been under scrutiny, the elements that need consideration have evolved. For example, in 2007, the objective was to build homes that were zero carbon in use.

This is still the primary objective of the Future Homes Standard – hence the focus on new technology to eliminate the use of fossil fuel for heating. However, many housebuilders are now also considering the carbon emissions associated with the manufacture of building materials, in order to reduce the whole life carbon emissions of new buildings.

It’s a new way of thinking for the entire supply chain and product manufacturers need to be transparent and proactive in producing the information required to help builders meet their objectives.

Fabric Energy Efficiency

It makes sense to build homes that are intrinsically as energy efficient as possible, although FHS does also recognise that there are limits to what can be achieved. For walls, the U-value requirement is 0.18W/m2K. At this extreme level of insulation every detail counts – and it is generally detailing that will make the difference, particularly the issue of thermal bridges.

Such bridges typically occur at junctions and can account for as much as 30% of fabric heat loss. The impact of thermal bridges is described as a Psi value and this needs to be included as part of the calculation process to demonstrate compliance with building regulations.

Calculating the potential impact of thermal bridges and working out the design details required to reduce it, can be complex and time-consuming. H+H produced a solution to this issue by simply providing Psi value calculations for over 3,000 potential junction details using its Solar, Standard, High Strength and Super Strength Grade aircrete blocks. The calculations cover all uses of aircrete in cavity, walls, beam and block floors, separating walls or foundations below DPC.  All are freely available for housebuilders.

Whole Life Carbon

Eliminating carbon emissions from the built environment requires buildings to produce no carbon emissions throughout their life cycle. We know how to eliminate carbon emissions from a building in use, but calculating the impact of the construction process is a relatively new field.

Manufacturers are right in at the start, describing their contribution to CO2 emissions in terms of embodied carbon. This should include the carbon emissions associated with manufacture, lifetime operation and end of life disposal.

As with any new endeavour, it is taking time for embodied carbon calculation methods to be scrutinised and accepted. There remain variations in the ways embodied carbon numbers are calculated and described.

For H+H the process is relatively straightforward. Aircrete blocks are produced in the UK, using minimal raw materials. The performance of the product in use is well understood and its end-of-life disposal is benign in terms of carbon emissions. H+H is therefore comfortable with producing detailed lifecycle assessments which include every stage of the product’s life cycle, and the company is actively promoting the Environmental Product Declarations which discuss the calculation method as well as providing an embodied carbon figure.

Right now, it can be difficult to make sense of embodied carbon figures for different building materials, as the calculation methods may not be directly comparable (some EPDs do not include end-of-life emissions, for example). Specifiers need to be up to speed to make sense of the numbers available.

Responsible product information

Providing this breadth and depth of information requires investment from manufacturers in both technical expertise and the communication support to share information accessibly with the wider construction industry. It’s a recognition of the interdependence of the supply chain and the co-operation required to reach common objectives of safety and sustainability.