How to get a flawless wood finish

Building Products Index Ltd Filler 2 Comments

View the Toupret entry on BPindex

Visit the Toupret website

Wood is a material that’s relied on for both structural and decorative work, and continues to be used extensively in both new builds and refurbishments. Structurally, it’s a very workable and strong material, making it ideal for flooring and roofing, for example. But it’s also appreciated for its natural aesthetic and adds real flourish and character to a property – the reason its used so visibly in interiors and exteriors, think skirting boards, architraves, doors and panelling (a look that’s particularly in at the moment). Getting it to look right, then, can really lift the appearance of a space, whether it’s painted, stained or varnished.

Whilst its rustic look is appreciated in certain settings, such as in the beams of a heritage property, wood can also be used for high impact finishes where it needs to be flawlessly smooth. Front doors are one such example where a high wood finish can make a real statement, particularly when overcoated with a high gloss paint. To achieve this look, the wood needs to be rid of any imperfections and the best way to do this is with a fine finishing filler.

How to do it

Mark Warneke, Toupret’s Technical Manager, outlines how to carry out the work with the help of Toupret Fine Finish Wood Filler, a product designed to create the ultimate finish to all interior and exterior wood.

“First, prepare the surface as you usually would, sanding back the wood and ensuring that it is hard, cohesive, clean, sound and dry. If the wood is damp, treat it with a product such as Toupret’s Wood Hardener, and use a wood repair filler, if needed, to fill any deeper cracks and gaps or to shape and repair any broken or damaged sections. Don’t worry about very small defects and pitting as these will be covered by the product anyway.

“Once dry, or if the wood is already in good condition, prime the surface with paint and let it dry.

“Next, with a filling knife (or blade for larger areas), apply Fine Finish Wood Filler to the surface and smooth it out across the wood so that you’re applying a layer no thicker than 1mm. 450g should cover 1m².”

Fine Finish Wood Filler is a fast-drying product and is compatible with all paints and coatings, meaning you can apply your desired topcoat just an hour later, and with a gloss paint, the effect once dry is a true mirror-finish.

What makes Fine Finish Wood Filler so suited to this type of work is not only that it is fast drying, and able to achieve a finish that looks like glass, but that it can be used both inside and out and is also flexible. And as wood is a living material that expands and contracts with changes in temperature, this means your finish is more resistant to cracking.

Complete Schedule of 2025 RIBA CPD Webinars Hosted by Newton

Building Products Index Ltd waterproofing Leave a Comment

View the Newton Waterproofing entry on BPindex

Visit the Newton Waterproofing website

Written by Warren Muschialli

We are pleased to release our full list of 2025 RIBA CPD webinars by Newton Waterproofing.

Held regularly throughout the year, the RIBA-approved and double-points CPDs are delivered to architects, engineers and construction professionals across the country through the RIBA Academy and the online directory SpecifiedBy.

These include a choice of four CPD seminars, all providing best-practice guidance and compliance on different aspects of structural waterproofing, and all in line with the 2022 British Standard for waterproofing, BS 8102:2022. Topics include:

  • Waterproofing Design Strategies
  • A Designer’s Guide to ‘Type C’ Waterproofing
  • Achieving Continuity in Concrete Waterproofing
  • Principles of ‘Type A’ Barrier Waterproofing

Our 2025 calendar of free webinars with RIBA and SpecifiedBy will be held on the following dates:

Registration links for each CPD webinar will be added to the CPD page of the website as soon as they become available. You can also contact us to be kept informed of upcoming CPD events and other free training resources.

As well as the online webinars, the above presentations are also available as face-to-face seminars or private webinars over Microsoft Teams.

“Everyone in the office found Newton’s CPD presentation incredibly informative and enlightening, helped by the fact that it was delivered by an expert speaker who engaged with the audience. Having the added benefit of a Newton Specialist Contractor present also gave a new dimension to the CPD, providing our staff with a welcome insight into the challenges of waterproofing installation on site.” Louise Duval, HollandGreen Architecture & Interiors.

To book your free CPD, call 01732 360 095, or email our Training Co-ordinator, Louise louisehook@newtonwaterproofing.co.uk

MARLEY LAUNCHES WINTER SAFETY CAMPAIGN – SUPPORTING ROOFERS WHATEVER THE WEATHER

Building Products Index Ltd Roofing Leave a Comment

View the Marley entry on BPindex

Visit the Marley website

The UK weather is known for being unpredictable, and winter is no different. In fact, UK winters are now 1°C warmer and 15% wetter on average – yet at the same time, still susceptible to unexpected icy snaps. This can make working outdoors even more challenging and unpredictable.

From battling icy conditions to sheltering from heavy rainfall, UK roofers are seeing significant impacts from changing winter weather conditions. In fact, Marley’s recent research reveals 60% are experiencing increased delays to projects, 54% are seeing projects going over budget and 54% are having to replan work more often. What’s concerning is that all of these impacts is leading to 53% seeing a rise in customer dissatisfaction as a result.

To support the safety of roofers and other outdoor construction workers throughout the winter months, leading roof systems manufacturer, Marley, has launched its Winter Safety campaign – offering essential support and guidance, for whatever the weather throws at them.

Dan Redfern, Marketing Communications Manager at Marley, said: “Our goal with this campaign is to help roofers stay safe while continuing to deliver quality work throughout the winter. Whether it’s offering practical safety tips, or providing resources for winter weather preparedness, we want to ensure roofers are equipped with everything they need to remain safe on site.”

 

Essential Tips for Winter Roofing

Roofers are encouraged to follow a few key guidelines to help mitigate winter-specific risks:

  • Reduced winter daylight: As number of daylight hours decreases, it’s essential that roofers ensure they leave sufficient time to collect all tools and equipment and make their way safely to ground level before darkness descends. In some special circumstances, it may be possible to work under artificial light, providing this in line with the job specific risk assessment and method statement (RAMS).

 

  • Correct PPE: Cold, wet and windy conditions require specialist PPE to protect from the elements. Roofers should ensure they have insulated clothing, suitable headgear for extra warmth (special liners are available for hard-hats), safety boots which are checked to ensure the soles and uppers are in good condition and gloves designed for winter use.

 

  • Safe Working Conditions: Roofs can become slippery in winter. Roofers should ensure that surfaces are cleared of snow and ice before accessing the roof. Where the choice exists, it is often better to start work on the side of the roof facing the sun as this is likely to defrost quicker and feel a few degrees warmer. Roofers should also be mindful of the risk of frostbite or hypothermia in extremely cold conditions and follow any guidance given in tool box talks or similar, on working in cold conditions.

In addition to safety advice, Marley is also giving away 500 branded insulated mugs, together with a £5 Costa Coffee voucher.

“We know that the winter months can be particularly tough on roofers, but with the right planning and precautions, roofing can continue safely and successfully,” adds Dan. “Our campaign is about providing the tools and knowledge roofers need to face these challenges head-on.”

To learn more about Marley’s Winter Safety Campaign, access resources, or tips, visit Marley’s

Crittall Windows unveils revolutionary thermally enhanced steel system

Building Products Index Ltd Doors, Steel, Steel doors, Windows Leave a Comment

View the Crittall Windows entry on BPindex

Visit the Crittall Windows website

Leading steel window and door manufacturer, Crittall Windows, has unveiled a revolutionary thermally enhanced system, setting new standards for energy efficiency and performance in the market.

The Corporate W20 TE® system is an innovative adaptation of the company’s iconic Corporate W20® and represents a significant leap forward in steel window and door technology. The patent-pending system achieves remarkable UW & UD values of 1.4 W/m²K, delivering outstanding thermal performance without compromising on the unique aesthetics that has made Crittall Windows a global leader since 1849.

Manufactured at the firm’s headquarters in Witham, Essex, the Corporate W20 TE® system boasts impressively slim sightlines and incorporates state-of the-art thermal enhancement technology. It also features co-extruded dual weather seals, ensuring superior weather performance and enhanced insulation properties all-year round.

Like other Crittall Windows’ products, this latest system is made from 100% recycled steel, making it an environmentally conscious solution that delivers outstanding durability. Plus, with a life expectancy exceeding 60 years, these windows and doors are a sustainable choice for both commercial and residential applications.

 

Russell Ager, MD at Crittall Windows, said: “The Corporate W20 TE® system is a revolution to steel window and door technology. Our team of specialists have successfully enhanced the thermal performance of our steel profiles while preserving their inherent strength and aesthetic appeal.

“This achievement is a perfect example of our continued commitment to adapting our product range in such a way that we can maintain our world renowned hand-finished craftmanship and combine this with modern performance requirements. The thermal gradient across the profile matches that of thermally broken steel sections, making it an ideal choice for contemporary and historical projects.”

As the world’s leading manufacturer of steel windows and doors, Crittall Windows continues to invest in the development of its products, ensuring they meet the changing demands of the construction industry while maintaining the exceptional quality standards that have defined the brand for 175 years.

For more information about the Corporate W20 TE® system and Crittall Windows’ complete range of steel windows and doors, visit www.crittall-windows.co.uk

KEIM – Protection and transformation of through coloured render.

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

View the KEIM entry on BPindex

Visit the KEIM website

Rendering the exterior of a building is typically used to enhance its appearance and provide protection from weathering and rainwater.  Whilst silicone or acrylic ‘through-coloured’ render finishes may seem an economical choice, there can be subsequent problems which can quickly spoil the aesthetics of the building.

Marketed as a long-term render that is structurally sound, there are common issues that can arise which include difficulty when repairing, with repairs to damaged areas resulting in colour and texture differences, which leaves a patchwork effect.

Through coloured renders typically contain petrochemical ingredients, they look fresh when first applied, but over time the components within the render provide an organic food source for contaminants such as algae, which can significantly build up on the render surface.   Petrochemical based pigments within through coloured render are prone to fading under UV light.

KEIM, who have specialised in environmentally, eco-conscious paints since 1878, offer products that can refresh and repair these renders, to provide a protective, breathable, fade free finish which is far more resistant to the build up of algae and mould.

KEIM Soldalit-ME provides the perfect refurbishment and repair solution.

KEIM-Soldalit-ME is a highly specialised sol-silicate exterior mineral paint with photocatalytic qualities, not only is KEIM-Soldalit-ME breathable, fade free and environmentally friendly, it also actively reduces harmful gases and organic pollutants in the atmosphere.

Vanessa Fox, Commercial Manager helps to explain; ‘KEIM have been approached to assist with numerous projects where issues have arisen on through colour render, where façades have faded, where repairs are difficult to carry out, and in particular where significant issues with algae build up have occurred.’

‘By redecorating these buildings using the KEIM-Soldalit-ME system, not only can we transform the look of the façade, we protect the underlying render from the effects of UV light and we offer a surface that restricts the build-up of algae. Our paint helps to clean the air as well as offering fire resistance with a fire classification A2-s1, d0 ideal for use on all manner of projects from heritage to high-rise.’

Vanessa continues, ‘All of our products are designed to be kind to use, and kind to the environment. Our products have been in use for decades and all with proven eco credentials, they are Cradle to Cradle Certified®, and will help protect the building’s exterior from ingress of rainwater to remain fresh and vibrant for years to come.’

In order to find out more about KEIM Mineral Paints please visit the website: https://www.keim.com/en-gb/ or the web shop at https://www.keimpaintshop.co.uk/

Stylish surfaces “Made in Germany”

Building Products Index Ltd Bathroom Accessibility solutions, bathroom accessories, Bathrooms Leave a Comment

View the HEWI entry on BPindex

Visit the HEWI website

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.

DERELICT WAREHOUSE TRANSFORMED INTO MODERN APARTMENTS USING LOGIK 70MM SYSTEM

Building Products Index Ltd Doors, PVC-U, PVC-U, Windows Leave a Comment

View the Eurocell entry on BPindex

Visit the Eurocell website

  • Redevelopment in Leicester transforms a derelict warehouse into new apartments.
  • The Logik 70mm chamfered system in Black Ash specified as a sustainable alternative to aluminium.
  • With a U-value of 1.2, the Logik 70mm system met the aesthetic and acoustic standards required.
  • Logik, which contains 32% recycled PVC-U, helped reduce the project’s environmental footprint.

Challenges Encountered in Redeveloping a Derelict Site

The redevelopment of a derelict warehouse, alongside the construction of three new apartment blocks in Leicester city centre, presented several significant challenges. Initially, brown aluminium was specified to align with the area’s aesthetic. However, the project’s primary goal was to transform the neglected site into modern, high-quality apartments that would contribute to the wider regeneration efforts in the city centre. In response, Nu Openings proposed the Eurocell PVC-U 70mm Logik Chamfered system in Black Ash and Syncro sliding doors as a more cost-effective and sustainable alternative to aluminium.

This specification change introduced the need for careful adherence to local planning protocols, collaboration with architects, and compliance with Building Regulations. Additionally, the derelict state of the warehouse added complexity to the project. On-site safety during the measurement of every window was paramount, and the team also had to contend with structural irregularities and environmental factors, such as the presence of pigeons.

Innovative Solutions for Modern Apartment Design

Nu Openings, contracted to install the windows and doors, worked closely with Padmore Construction and Eurocell’s Commercial team to overcome these challenges. The choice of the Logik 70mm system was driven by its exceptional thermal performance, achieving a U-value of 1.2, while offering significant cost savings compared to aluminium. Eurocell’s foiled Black Ash finish provided the ideal solution, balancing the need to match local architectural aesthetics with energy efficiency goals.

Steve Carvell from Nu Openings, who spearheaded the specification change, noted the challenge of ensuring that PVC-U could meet both the aesthetic and functional requirements of the project. Eurocell’s Technical team collaborated closely with architects, providing detailed technical drawings and support to secure planning approval, ensuring the project’s success.

Steve shared:

“Convincing the planners and architects to switch from aluminium to PVC-U wasn’t easy. It wasn’t a straight swap – we had to make sure the new material met all the aesthetic, structural, and thermal requirements.

“Eurocell’s Technical team played a crucial role in this process, providing detailed drawings and performance data to demonstrate how Logik 70mm could deliver on energy efficiency, durability, and design. The team’s expertise helped us navigate complex planning approvals and ensured that the new specifications not only met, but exceeded expectations, ultimately securing the confidence of all stakeholders involved.”

Despite the derelict state of the existing building, which required creating new structural openings for window installations and precise on-site measurements, the installation of over 220 frames has been successfully completed. The project involves more than 1,000 frames, with 90% of the installation carried out internally. This approach has minimised the need for external scaffolding, streamlining the process and reducing the impact on pedestrian safety around the site.

Delivering Cost Savings and Sustainability

Although the project is ongoing, the decision to shift from the originally specified aluminium to the Logik 70mm system has already yielded significant cost savings, while delivering high-performance, energy-efficient windows. The chosen design seamlessly integrates with the surrounding architecture, preserving the city’s identity while offering a modern, sustainable solution.

Kelly Hibbert, Head of Commercial at Eurocell, highlighted the critical role of acoustic performance in the project, with bespoke glazing solutions designed to meet rigorous noise reduction standards:

“This project extended far beyond aesthetics – the windows needed to comply with strict acoustic requirements. The successful collaboration between planners, architects, and Nu Openings enabled us to meet every aspect of the design brief, transforming a derelict site into modern, energy-efficient apartments.”

“In addition to the performance benefits that the Logik 70mm system brought to this development, Eurocell’s sustainability credentials were also a key advantage. Our products, containing an average of 32% recycled PVC-U, contribute to the construction sector’s increasing focus on environmental responsibility and the complex journey towards achieving Net Zero.”

The redevelopment of the derelict warehouse, along with the construction of three new buildings as part of this project, aligns seamlessly with the broader initiative to enhance both the functionality and aesthetics of the city.

For more information on how Eurocell can assist you in delivering your next project, please contact the team commercialsales.profiles@eurocell.co.uk.

Clement Conservation Rooflights chosen for Jools Holland music venue!

Building Products Index Ltd Steel, Windows Leave a Comment

View the Clement Windows entry on BPindex

Visit the Clement windows website

Clement Windows Group has supplied rooflights from its Clement Conservation Rooflights range for 1-5 St Paul’s Square in Birmingham.

This historic Georgian building is home to multiple office units and a landmark venue known as The Jam House.  Opened in 1999 by Jools Holland designer and Neil Tibbat, the multi award winning venue offers live music and fine dining.

Eleven rooflights from the Clement 3, Clement 4 and Clement side hung ranges, all in a slate profile, were installed at the venue.

Richard Clews from Jubb Clews Ltd, who were the architects working on the project, said:

“1-5 St Paul’s Square is a Grade II Listed Building in Central Birmingham that was constructed in c1780 as town houses around a classic Georgian Square.

The project included repairing the traditional slate roofs and lead-lined parapet gutters.  Key design considerations included improving thermal performance and increasing the capacity of rainwater disposal to accommodate modern storm surges whilst remaining sympathetic to the traditional architectural details.  The works were funded from the planned maintenance budget.

Clement Conservation Rooflights were perfectly suited to this application.  Several of the top hung windows were used for the upper floors whilst the side hung windows were used for the roof maintenance access.”

Manufactured for either a slate or a tile profile and available in eight standard sizes, Clement Conservation Rooflights are constructed from strong mild steel sheet for extra strength, and coated in polyzinc and polyester powder paint for durability.

The rooflights comprise high performance, argon filled, 24mm insulated glass units and come with a revolutionary warm T bar system.  Available with several glazing options, including self-cleaning glass as standard, Clement’s rooflights are manufactured to EN ISO 9001 standards and rigorously tested against air, wind and rain to BS6375.  They have achieved a BFRC Window Energy Rating of A+.

Clement Windows Group offers an innovative range of steel windows, doors, screens and rooflights, specialising in conservation work for both private residences and commercial projects.

01428 643393              info@clementwg.co.uk                      www.clementwindows.co.uk

Briza Net Zero to heat and cool the first delivery of homes at Hampshire’s new sustainable garden village

Building Products Index Ltd Heating, Radiators Leave a Comment

View the Jaga entry on BPindex

Visit the Jaga website

Jaga UK’s state-of-the-art Briza Net Zero heat pump radiator has been selected to heat and cool some of the first new homes at Welborne, a new generation sustainable garden village near Fareham, Hampshire.

Designed by Buckland Group, Welborne, one of the largest new community projects in the UK, is under construction and will become a place for 15,000 people to live, work and play, consisting of connected and energy efficient homes integrated with extensive publicly accessible green space. This latest announcement reinforces Welborne’s commitment to embedding sustainable solutions throughout the development.

Jaga’s Briza S Net Zero model was chosen for its slimline, elegant design and exceptional energy performance. The compact yet powerful unit provides efficient heating and cooling via Welborne’s ambient water-source heat network – the largest of its kind in the UK.

Developed by Last Mile Heat in collaboration with Rendesco, the sustainable energy network supplies low-carbon heating, cooling, and hot water, helping to significantly reduce the community’s carbon footprint and deliver long-term energy savings for residents.

At the heart of the network is Portsmouth Water’s underground Hoads Hill Reservoir, which provides water at a stable temperature of approximately 10–12ºC. This water is pumped into each home’s heat pump system, where it is warmed to 45ºC before circulating through Jaga’s Briza Net Zero emitters. During the summer, the same system delivers cooling by channelling cooler water through the Briza Net Zero units, providing an efficient, climate-friendly alternative to air conditioning.

The initial phase of the project will supply heating and cooling to 700 new homes, along with commercial premises and community buildings, gradually expanding to serve all planned 6,000 homes and 15,000 residents. Notably, this sustainable energy network is projected to cut CO₂ emissions by 90% compared to gas boilers, saving over 272,000 tonnes of carbon in the first 25 years of operation and providing residents with ongoing energy savings. Recently, the Green Heat Network Fund awarded £2 million to support the network’s development, further reinforcing its positive impact on the environment and local community.

Phil Mangnall, Managing Director of Jaga UK, commented, “We’re incredibly proud to be part of this forward-thinking development that prioritises sustainability and energy efficiency. Our Briza Net Zero emitters are specifically designed to work seamlessly with renewable energy systems, delivering high heat output at lower flow temperatures. This means less energy is needed to heat the water from the reservoir, creating a highly efficient system. Their slimline, sleek design also complements the timeless architecture of the homes, adding both style and functionality. It’s exciting to see these emitters play a key role in the UK’s largest water-source heating and cooling network.”

In delivering this ambitious project, Jaga UK is collaborating with Welborne’s housebuilder partners, including Thakeham, Pye Homes and CG Fry. These developers are creating sustainable and high-quality homes to meet the needs of future generations. Jaga is also working closely with the developers’ chosen heat pump partners, NIBE and others, to provide a cohesive heating and cooling system for each development.

Welborne Garden Village is an ongoing development, and prospective residents will benefit from new schools, healthcare, sports and leisure facilities, along with a range of retailers, and a science and technology park. Taking a nature-led design approach, more than 50% of Welborne will be accessible green space woven throughout, and the garden village will be biodiversity positive with wildlife and natural habitats restored from previously intensively farmed agricultural land.

Construction on the first phase began in 2024, and Welborne will welcome its first residents early this year.

 

Dulux Trade Introduces 99.9% VOC free Paints range for Healthier Indoor Environments

Building Products Index Ltd Paint Leave a Comment

View the Deluxe Trade entry on BPindex

Visit the Deluxe trade website

Dulux Trade has announced the launch of its latest range of low VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) paints, aimed at promoting healthier indoor air quality. The new formulations for Dulux Trade Diamond Matt, Vinyl Matt, and Super Matt are now 99.9% VOC-free, setting a new standard in the industry.

Dulux Trade Diamond Matt is celebrated for its durability and superior finish. This water-based paint can withstand up to 10,000 scrubs, ensuring long-lasting beauty for walls. Its low VOC content significantly reduces the emission of harmful chemicals, contributing to a healthier living environment.

Dulux Trade Vinyl Matt offers excellent opacity and coverage, ensuring a uniform finish. The reformulated paint is also 99.9% VOC-free, making it a safer choice for both residential and commercial spaces. It meets stringent sustainability standards such as BREEAM and LEED, which are crucial for green building certifications.

Dulux Trade Super Matt is designed for new plaster and surfaces prone to imperfections. Like the other two products, it is also 99.9% VOC-free. This paint is ideal for creating a smooth, even finish while maintaining a low environmental impact.

The benefits of using low VOC paints are numerous, including improved indoor air quality, healthier living spaces, reduced environmental impact, and compliance with various environmental standards and certifications.

Dulux Trade’s commitment to sustainability and innovation ensures that customers can achieve a beautiful finish without compromising on air quality or environmental impact.

For more information, visit the Dulux Trade website: https://www.duluxtradepaintexpert.co.uk/en