Introducing The Addagrip Collection: Aurora, Terra & Luna

Building Products Index Ltd Resin Bound Surfacing Leave a Comment

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We’re proud to launch The Addagrip Collection — a new innovation designed to simplify the Resin Bound selection process and make it easier for homeowners, designers, and specifiers to choose the perfect finish.

Grouped into three distinct ranges — Aurora, Terra, and Luna — the collection reflects the most popular design styles, from soft and subtle to bold and dramatic.

  • Aurora captures coastal calm and cool elegance, ideal for contemporary spaces seeking a light, refined finish.
  • Terra brings warmth and natural character, perfect for traditional designs and earthy landscapes.
  • Luna is all about contrast and statement tones, designed to stand out and add definition.

This new approach replaces the overwhelming array of product names with an intuitive, inspiration-led structure that puts aesthetics first — while still delivering the trusted quality, durability, and performance Addagrip is known for.

Whether you’re designing a luxury driveway, a public realm project, or a residential garden path, The Addagrip Collection makes it easy to choose a surface that aligns with your vision — without compromise.

Rockpanel introduces new and improved product-specific EPDs for greater sustainability transparency

Building Products Index Ltd Facade Leave a Comment

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Rockpanel, a leader in sustainable façade solutions, is proud to announce the release of new and improved product-specific Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) across its entire product range. These enhanced EPDs provide a more precise assessment of the environmental impact of Rockpanel products, reaffirming the company’s commitment to transparency and sustainability in the building industry.

Commitment to sustainability

At Rockpanel, sustainability extends beyond aesthetics—it is about making a real impact by providing factual, data-driven insights into the environmental performance of materials. The newly updated EPDs reflect ongoing improvements across the entire value chain, demonstrating Rockpanel’s continuous efforts to reduce its environmental footprint.

Enhanced transparency and continuous improvement

“Our enhanced product-specific EPDs allow for a more detailed and accurate evaluation of our products’ sustainability credentials,” said Jeroen Ebus, Managing Director at Rockpanel and adds. “With our commitment to continuous improvement, we expect these values to keep improving, reinforcing our dedication to a more sustainable built environment.”

Supporting the Construction Industry’s Sustainability Goals

Jeroen Ebus emphasize the company’s long-term vision for sustainability, stating, “At Rockpanel, we recognize that true sustainability requires constant innovation and transparency. Our updated EPDs provide our customers with the reliable data they need to make informed, environmentally responsible choices. This is another step forward in our mission to contribute to a greener, more sustainable future.”

Remaining at the forefront with Cradle to cradle certification

As the construction industry increasingly prioritizes sustainable building solutions, Rockpanel remains at the forefront, providing architects, developers, and specifiers with reliable data to make informed, environmentally responsible decisions. Demonstrating this commitment, Rockpanel last year became Cradle to Cradle certified on silver level for its popular product Rockpanel Colours. This certification highlights Rockpanel’s commitment to circularity, sustainable sourcing, and responsible manufacturing, reinforcing its role as a leader in sustainable façade solutions.

For more information about Rockpanel’s sustainability initiatives and to access the new product-specific EPDs, visit www.rockpanel.co.uk

Facts:

What is an EPD?

An Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) is a standardized document that provides transparent and third-party verified information about a product’s environmental impact throughout its lifecycle. It enables architects, developers, and other stakeholders to make informed decisions based on reliable sustainability data.

 

Iconic Barbican Estate Kitchen

Building Products Index Ltd Stainless Steel, Stainless Steel Worktops Leave a Comment

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GEC Anderson were commissioned to install the original stainless steel worktops in the Barbican estate 50 years ago.

A New Day Design Studio in conjunction with HØLTE, updated this Barbican kitchen using GEC Anderson worktops and splashbacks creating a stylish yet authentic look to the Grade II listed architecture.

GEC Anderson were instructed to measure, supply and install made to measure brushed satin stainless steel worktops for the complete kitchen refurbishment.

Included in the design were a total of four worktops. One worktop featured an integrated end panel. The main sinktop included individual hob plate cut outs: integral sink with drainer and splashback. A further two worktops were also included.

Anna Stathaki Photography

Evidence-based FACTA Compliance Critical to Ensuring Paving Cover Performance, Warns Drainage Expert

Building Products Index Ltd access covers Leave a Comment

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A lack of evidence-based testing threatens to undermine the operational impact of paving covers in external applications, according to a leading voice in the industry.

ACO Building Drainage is urging professionals working on projects involving external paving covers to request a test report from manufacturers to ensure the longevity and resilience of installations.

Key performance criteria for external paving covers should include load testing as outlined by the Fabricated Access Covers Trade Association (FACTA) classifications.

In flood-prone scenarios, external covers should also be subjected to a water test to demonstrate a watertight seal under a static head of water for 24 hours.

Failure to use products which have met the necessary testing criteria can result in a host of issues including early failure, water damage to underlying plant or services, and unsafe routes for pedestrians and vehicles, leading to unforeseen maintenance and inefficiencies later down the line.

In response to growing concerns around the impact of untested products in the marketplace, ACO has launched its own range of UK-manufactured external paving covers. Tested to *FACTA B and FACTA D load classifications, The single cover units have shown to maintain a watertight seal for 24 hours under a static head of 100mm as required by the FACTA specification.

The new covers are engineered for public and commercial applications, which meet the growing demand for products, combining sustainability with rigorous testing.

The new paving covers offer an innovative retrofit capability which allows the easy conversion of a plain-seated configuration to a locked and sealed variant. This flexibility means if an installation initially meets a project’s basic requirements but later demands enhanced sealing for odour and water resistance, the covers can be quickly adapted without replacing the entire unit.

Manufactured with a high percentage of recycled content and fully recyclable at the end of their lifecycle, the paving covers can help reduce carbon emissions and support the circular economy, promoting a more sustainable approach to infrastructure development. Manufactured in the UK, ACO’s external paving cover range also contains less embodied carbon than imported alternatives thereby contributing to lower Scope 3 emissions for the client.

Andrea Polti, Product Manager at ACO, said: “ACO ensures our covers are manufactured to the highest standards and test results are readily available on request. This level of transparency is essential for specifiers who demand verified reliable performance. Our new paving covers have been meticulously designed and rigorously tested to ensure they deliver industry-leading quality and performance.”

With a lead time of three to five days ACO’s paving covers combine high integrity with a competitive price.

Andrea continues: “I would encourage specifiers, civil engineers and all industry professionals to verify that products are supported by evidence-based test reports. In doing so, they ensure compliance with the necessary specifications required while contributing to the overall safety and long-term performance of the project.”

For more on ACO’s new range of external paving covers, see ACO.co.uk.

*FACTA B is designed for slow-moving(≤20mph) wheel loads, up to 5t for pneumatic tyred vehicles and 0.75t for solid tyres, while FACTA D accommodates 11t for pneumatic, and 3t for solid, suitable for environments with mixed vehicular traffic, including emergency vehicle access.

Table of FACTA load classes available here https://www.aco.co.uk/access-covers-facta

MARLEY LAUNCHES NEW DELIVERY TRACKING OPTION FOR MERCHANTS

Building Products Index Ltd Roof system, Roofing Leave a Comment

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Leading roof systems manufacturer, Marley, has launched a new, real-time, delivery tracking option for its customers – giving builders’ merchants greater visibility and control over their deliveries.

The new delivery tracking function is available through Marley’s online customer portal, ‘My Account’. Merchants ordering from Marley can create a free My Account profile to get instant access to all of their account details in one place – including information about prices, orders, deliveries and products – as well as access a host of free online training resources.

The introduction of delivery tracking via My Account means customers can now easily monitor their Marley deliveries in real-time, from when a delivery is on the road.

Once logged in to their account, merchants can quickly view all their tracking data in one place, including the vehicle location and estimated time of arrival. Also, should orders be distributed across two or more deliveries, merchants can easily toggle through the details of each active delivery by using the order tracking function.

For busy merchants dealing with multiple suppliers, Marley now ensures its deliveries are electronically signed for. With the new upgrades to My Account, this now means specific delivery information, including pinpoint location and electronic proof of delivery (ePOD) documentation, can be viewed and downloaded via the online portal.

Dan Redfern, Head of Marketing Communications at Marley, says: “Through online delivery tracking, Marley’s My Account platform now gives greater visibility into order progress for merchants. This enables quick and easy answers to questions around order arrival times and proof of delivery, saving merchants time and hassle.

“The real-time delivery tracking adds to My Account’s growing functionality for merchants, offering a single place for them to easily access everything they need relating to their Marley orders, deliveries, prices and products.

“And further supporting merchants, My Account also offers a wide range of free online training modules, alongside TEAMS and in-person courses, all designed to help merchants boost their roofing and product knowledge.”

For more information, visit Marley’s My Account platform.

Case Study: Clark-Drain’s Collaboration with Kier Group on the UK’s First Carbon-Neutral Prison

Building Products Index Ltd access solutions Leave a Comment

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Project Overview

Clark-Drain are supporting Kier Group with the ground-breaking construction of the UK’s first carbon-neutral prison, located at the Full Sutton site in the East Riding of Yorkshire. The 1,500-bed Category C “mega” prison will be the first to be zero-carbon in operation, and once built, will run fully on electricity. Other sustainable design features also include solar panels, heat pumps and more efficient lighting systems to reduce energy demand. This collaboration marked the continuation of Clark-Drain’s relationship with the Ministry of Justice, where they have been a trusted partner on other high profile projects such as the multi award-winning HMP Five Wells in Wellingborough which opened in March 2022.

Key Contributions

Clark-Drain partnered with Kier from the specification stages, working collaboratively to deliver the best advice and solutions to meet the demands of this challenging build. Of the 419 access points required to house the extensive electrical infrastructure buried throughout the site, Clark-Drain manufactured and delivered 418 of them.

The heavy-duty access chambers, made from recycled polypropylene, were custom- manufactured at Clark-Drain’s factory in Yaxley, Peterborough. The use of polypropylene not only made the chambers easier to manoeuvre on-site, reducing the need for heavy lifting equipment but also aligned perfectly with the project’s sustainability goals.

Innovative Solutions

Recognising the need to streamline the delivery process, Clark-Drain added small ‘feet’ to each heavy-duty access chamber, raising them slightly off the ground. This innovative feature allowed forklifts to easily slide under each chamber, straight from the lorry or on the ground, speeding up unloading and distribution. This approach completely eliminated the need for additional pallets, massively reducing waste and improving site efficiency. The feet were never removed as they were also found to help with alignment into the designated pits

On delivery to site each chamber was allocated specific codes so their exact location and installation could be managed and monitored. This was critical, as the security access lids and supporting frames had to be installed together with each being an exclusive fit and supplied together to be considered as a single unit. Kier had specified that the lids must be capable of withstanding up to 40 tonnes of pressure, so worked closely with Gatic to deliver the final result.

To support the weight of the lid and frame, concrete surrounds were fabricated on-site. These sat comfortably on the polypropylene access chamber construction. The chambers were pre-drilled offsite, allowing for swift installation upon arrival.

On-Site Flexibility and Support

Given the complex nature of the project, Clark-Drain’s polypropylene chambers offered additional flexibility. If last-minute changes to cabling routes were required, the chambers could be easily cut on-site with standard tools, a feature that proved invaluable.

Throughout the project, Clark-Drain provided consistent support, with a dedicated project manager overseeing the process. This continuity ensured smooth communication and strengthened a strong, trusting relationship with Kier and the teams on-site. Their expertise and proactive problem-solving were pivotal in meeting the project’s deadlines and overcoming on-site challenges.

Neil Shearstone, Construction Manager for Kier said; “We had a great experience working with the team at Clark-Drain. They were quick to respond, knowledgeable and supported us to hit objectives.”

Positive Impact and Future Outlook

Kier Group praised Clark-Drain for their exceptional support and expertise, noting that the smoothness of the process was greatly enhanced by the consistent project management and on-site training provided. The collaboration has not only kept the project on track for its early 2025 handover but also established new techniques and knowledge that will benefit future projects of this nature.

Small yet impactful details, like the delivery driver’s advance call to notify the site team of his arrival, further streamlined communication and contributed to the project’s success. Working together towards a shared goal, Clark-Drain and Kier have set a benchmark for future sustainable construction projects in the UK.

Working with Clark-Drain

Clark-Drain are leaders in the design, manufacture and distribution of access solutions and drainage products for the built environment.

We are proud to stamp our name onto all of our products. It’s our signature – representing over 60 years of expertise and a reputation for performance and innovation as we are trusted to meet the challenges of the changing world.

For more information on how Clark-Drain can help your business deliver robust, cost- effective, environmentally responsible cable access solutions, no matter how big or small your project, get in touch. We are highly experienced in Civils and Infrastructure, Residential & Landscape, Commercial & Retail, Defence and Security.

Looking back at the iconic Gasholders in Kings Cross

Building Products Index Ltd Thermal Insulation Solutions Leave a Comment

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Architects: WilkinsonEyre Architects
Main contractor: Arup for Argent

Radmat Products used:

– ProTherm Quantum PURE VIP System

– ProTherm Regupol RCM

– ProTherm XPS Infill

– ProTherm G XPS X 300 SL Insulation

A Landmark Restored and Repurposed

Located in the heart of London, initially constructed 160 years ago, the Gasholder frames have been injected with a new burst of life. The cast iron structures have been restored and re-homed to just North of Regent’s Canal as part of the Kings Cross regeneration programme. The original triplet frames have re-purposed around a series of 145 apartments and penthouses contained within the Grade II Listed structures.

WilkinsonEyre Architects won a design competition with with their visionary concept, which integrates three distinct residential buildings within the historic cast iron frames. The architectural design pays homage to the dynamic nature of the original gasholders, where the structures would rise and fall depending on gas storage levels. By varying the heights of the accommodation, the new buildings capture the essence of the gasholders’ former functionality while delivering a modern and refined aesthetic.

Shepley Engineers in Yorkshire spent two years restoring the Grade II listed structures, demanding the expertise and passion of a highly skilled team But first, specialist contractors had to carefully dismantle the structures with 20-ton cranes and transport each section to the Shepley workshop, where they would slowly

be brought back to life. The result is an amazing and most unique highly specified apartments.

Radmat’s Role in the Pioneering Development

Radmat Building Products played a crucial role in supplying state-of-the-art thermal insulation solutions for the distinctive circular roof gardens and external walkways. Designed to enhance sustainability and urban greening, the landscaped roofs provide much-needed green spaces within the bustling city, softening the industrial presence of the cast iron structures while offering breathtaking panoramic views of the redeveloped area.

The unique circular geometry of the apartments presented a significant engineering challenge, requiring an insulation system that could seamlessly adapt to the curved structure while delivering superior thermal efficiency. Radmat’s ProTherm Quantum VIP insulation system was the ideal solution, offering a combination of high-performance insulation, reduced material depth, and tailored adaptability to fit the challenging design constraints.

Tailored Insulation Solutions for a Complex Structure

Radmat’s ProTherm Quantum VIP insulation was chosen for its ability to meet the intricate demands of the project, providing:

  • Bespoke insulation design to accommodate the curved structure and overcome spatial limitations.
  • Exceptional thermal efficiency while maintaining minimal insulation thickness.
  • Optimized installation to ensure seamless integration with the architectural framework.

A bespoke design was meticulously specified to fit the difficult areas, using Radmat’s ProTherm Quantum PURE Vacuum Insulation Panels (VIP) system, accompanied by ProTherm XPS Infill boards, which are designed to be cut and fit around penetrations and curved upstands. The system was then able to be applied to the difficult curvature of the structure with ease.

The ProTherm Quantum system was then supplied over hotmelt waterproofing to the external walkway at Level 1 to provide a level threshold detail. There was a limited upstand height which required a 0.2W/m2K U-value, in addition the roof shape was complex, with a high number of pitch pockets. Hence the ProTherm Quantum and ProTherm Infill boards were carefully designed to fill the space economically whilst still achieving the best thermal and level threshold performance.

Quantum was the only BBA certified VIP insulation on the market able to meet the required U-value and maintain a 75mm waterproofing upstand as per the NHBC requirements. Radmat also provided a full site survey, bespoke layout design and installation support on site.

With a dramatic reduction in depth and no loss of thermal performance, ProTherm Quantum VIP System was the ideal choice to achieve exceptional thermal targets and dramatically reduce the depth of the finished build.

To find out more about Radmat’s ProTherm Quantum Insulation visit: https://www.radmatquantum.com

Mindful Living, Beautiful Walls: Sustainable Paints for a Healthier Lifestyle by ISOMAT

Building Products Index Ltd Paint Leave a Comment

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For ISOMAT, sustainability isn’t just a trend – it’s a long-term commitment. For years, the company has been investing in innovative technologies and environmentally responsible solutions that support Green Building practices. From raw material sourcing to production methods and packaging, every detail is thoughtfully designed with people and the planet in mind. With a clear focus on reducing environmental impact without compromising on quality or performance, ISOMAT has developed – among others – the two following premium interior paint solutions:

Both paints are certified and expertly formulated to improve indoor air quality while delivering exceptional aesthetic results. Decorate with sustainability at the forefront with the help of Brewers Decorator Centres – you’ll find ISOMAT available online or in-store.

ISOMAT ZERO PAINT: The Premium Choice for Superior Indoor Air Quality 

ISOMAT ZERO PAINT is Europe’s first interior paint tintable to 230 Blue Angel-certified colours via the ISOMAT COLOR SYSTEM, featured in the ISOMAT’s CHROMA fan deck. It combines sustainability with performance, offering exceptional indoor air quality thanks to ultra-low VOCs, no preservatives or plasticisers, and top certifications: Blue Angel, Indoor Air Comfort GOLD, and A+ under French VOC regulations.

Ideal for sensitive users, it’s free from isothiazolinones, nearly odourless, and perfect for homes, nurseries, schools, and hotels. With excellent coverage and Class 1 scrub resistance (EN 13300), it delivers a durable, beautiful finish—safely and sustainably.

Advanced Hygiene & Durability with ISOMAT SMART CLEAN PAINT

ISOMAT SMART CLEAN PAINT is a high-performance, hygienic paint ideal for hospitals, food industries, schools, and busy homes. Powered by advanced silver ion technology and by IMSL for its antimicrobial and antifungal properties (ISO 22196:2011 & EN 15457:2022), it prevents bacteria, fungi, and mould on surfaces. With Class 1 resistance to frequent washing (EN ISO 11998), it offers long-lasting durability and easy stain removal, keeping walls fresh in high-traffic areas.

Its smooth eggshell finish delivers excellent coverage and vibrant colour, with endless options via ISOMAT’s CHROMAfan deck. Certified A+ for low VOCs and Indoor Air Comfort GOLD, it supports top indoor air quality and is ideal for sustainable projects seeking LEED, BREEAM, or WELL certification.

Smart, safe, and beautiful – because healthier spaces start with better choices.

SHOP NOW! Available online at brewers.co.uk or in-store from over 200 Brewers Decorator Centres.

3 ways to book our RIBA approved Passive Fire Protection CPD…

Building Products Index Ltd Uncategorized Leave a Comment

View the FIREFLY® entry on BPindex

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FIREFLY® CPD’s are a must for architects, contractors, specifiers and installers. Our RIBA approved CPD is tailored to provide an overview of passive fire protection in the treatment of larger roof voids and cavities, with solutions for complex areas and building spaces of all types. There are 3 ways you can book one of our courses, either in-person or online…

  1. RIBA CPD Showcase

Book directly through the RIBA CPD website. All enquiries are sent to our technical team who will be in touch to organise a suitable time at your offices, practise or an online (usually Microsoft Teams) webinar.

www.ribacpd.com/showcase

  1. Book direct via the FIREFLY® website

To book an in-person CPD at your offices or practice, you can book via our website. Our technical team will get in touch to arrange a suitable date/time. Click below and we’ll get back to you, usually within 1-2 working days.

www.tbafirefly.com/cpd

  1. Register with DCE-CPD for our next online course…

We host monthly webinars through our partners DCE-CPD. Expertly hosted by our trained technical staff, with a questions and answers session at the end. This online course also counts towards your CPD hours.

www.dcecpd.co.uk

ABACUS LIGHTING WINS KING’S AWARD FOR ENTERPRISE 2025

Building Products Index Ltd LED Lighting, lighting, outdoor lighting, Uncategorized Leave a Comment

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Celebrating Excellence in International Trade.

We are proud to announce that Abacus Lighting has been awarded the prestigious King’s Award for Enterprise in the category of International Trade 2025. This esteemed recognition reflects our unwavering commitment to delivering quality, world-class external LED lighting and mast solutions across global markets.

For over 65 years, Abacus Lighting has been at the forefront of the lighting industry, designing and manufacturing innovative, high-performance LED lighting systems from our headquarters and manufacturing plant in Nottingham, UK. From iconic sports venues like Kensington Oval and Lord’s cricket grounds to critical infrastructure across continents, our reach and reputation have continued to grow, culminating in this royal recognition.

Leaders In Lighting Solutions:

Our comprehensive product portfolio includes industry-leading luminaires and custom-built mast solutions engineered for exceptional performance.

Key products include:

Custom Manufactured High Masts and Columns:

We also bespoke manufacture fixed, raise/lower, and hydraulic and pneumatic telescopic high masts and columns, each tailor-made to our clients’ specifications. This unique capability allows Abacus Lighting to deliver complete, turnkey lighting solutions that meet the exacting needs of our clients, both nationally and internationally.

Lighting the Way in Key Sectors:

Our global success is built on delivering tailored solutions for a wide range of industry sectors:

Our UK clients trust us to deliver resilient, sustainable LED lighting that meets the needs of each unique project, and The King’s Award ensures that trust now extends worldwide.

A Royal Honour, A Team Achievement:

Winning the King’s Award for Enterprise is a testament to our international success and a celebration of the talented Abacus lighting team, our loyal clients, and global partners who make our mission possible. As we look to the future, Abacus Lighting remains dedicated to innovation, quality, and global service, shining brighter than ever on the world stage.

Let’s Talk Lighting
For lighting solution, installation, or maintenance enquiries, please contact us at:
📧 info@abacuslighting.com

💡 Explore our latest products and services:
🌐 www.abacuslighting.com
🔗 View our BPi page