OFFSITE WINDOW INNOVATION SPEEDS DELIVERY OF ABERDEEN’S LARGEST SOCIAL HOUSING DEVELOPMENT IN 50 YEARS

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

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Eurocell’s InSite system and Logik windows help accelerate the 87-home Craighill scheme for Aberdeen City Council

Building Aberdeen’s Largest Social Housing Programme in 50 Years

Aberdeen’s most ambitious social housing programme in more than half a century is being delivered with the help of Eurocell’s innovative InSite window system. Designed specifically for offsite construction, the system is helping to deliver 87 high-quality, energy-efficient homes at Craighill in Kincorth.

The development, part of Aberdeen City Council’s “Gold Standard” housing initiative, will provide adaptable, sustainable and dementia-friendly homes that integrate seamlessly with the surrounding community. Designed to meet the council’s target of reducing carbon emissions by at least 27% and supplying over half of hot water needs through renewable energy, the project also prioritises year-round comfort for residents.

High-performance window systems, with U-values as low as 1.2 W/m²K, contribute to lower heat loss, reduced energy consumption and improved thermal comfort, helping to keep tenant bills down while supporting the scheme’s sustainability ambitions. This ensures that energy efficiency and design quality translate directly into long-term benefits for residents and the wider community. Originally approved for 99 homes, the scheme was redesigned amid rising construction costs, reducing the total to 87 homes while keeping the £24–£26m project on budget.

Innovation Driving Certainty and Speed

With rising trade costs and site congestion threatening to delay delivery, CHAP Construction, Kirkwood Timber Frame, and Pinefield Glass turned to the InSite system to give the programme greater certainty.

Fraser Taylor, operations director at CHAP Construction, said:

“Using the InSite system enabled us to seal the building from day 1 and bring our internal trades onto site much earlier than planned. On a scheme of this scale, where daily trade costs can be in the region of £1,800 to £2,000, those savings quickly add up.”

The system allows Eurocell Logik PVC-U windows in Silk Grey to be factory-fitted into timber frame kits before arriving on site. Once lifted into place, the building envelope is sealed immediately, enabling internal works to start without waiting for external follow-on trades.

Collaboration in Action

Pinefield Glass fabricated the Logik windows, then transferred to Kirkwood Timber Frame’s controlled facilities where they were installed into precision-engineered panels. These were then delivered to the site ready for rapid installation.

Malcolm Thomson, managing director at Kirkwood Timber Frame, said:

“This project demonstrated how effective collaboration can be between the timber frame manufacturer, the window fabricator, and the main contractor. By integrating Eurocell’s InSite system into our kits at the factory stage, we were able to deliver timber panels already fitted with windows –  a key innovation that streamlined installation and reduced the need for follow-on trades. That brought significant programme benefits for CHAP and the Council while minimising site disruption and improving overall efficiency.”

For Pinefield Glass a Eurocell partner for over fourteen years, the project was an opportunity to showcase the value of long-term partnerships.

Bryan Yule, managing director at Pinefield Glass commented:

“Working with Eurocell and using the InSite system, we were able to provide pre-fitted window modules that performed exactly as required on site, giving the contractor and client complete peace of mind. Consistency and quality are at the heart of what we do, and this project really underlined that.”

Sustainability and Performance at the Core

Eurocell’s Logik system, integrated within Kirkwood Timber Frame’s precision-engineered panels played an integral role in meeting the Council’s sustainability and performance ambitions. Each frame contains around 40% recycled PVC-U, sourced through Eurocell’s closed-loop recycling system, which processes old frames into new ones.

With U-values as low as 1.2 W/m²K, or down to 0.93 W/m²K when specified with triple glazing, the Logik system supports compliance helping to reduce energy demand and tenant bills without compromising thermal or structural integrity.

Designed for practicality as well as performance, Logik can be manufactured offsite to minimise heavy lifting on site. Meanwhile, its contemporary Silk Grey finish delivers a durable, modern aesthetic that complements architectural visions for buildings that “sit confidently” within their surroundings.

Supporting Aberdeen’s Long-Term Housing Vision

The Craighill scheme exemplifies Aberdeen City Council’s ambition to deliver sustainable, high-quality homes that meet tenants’ needs now and in the future. The integration of Eurocell’s InSite and Logik systems has helped realise that vision more quickly and cost-effectively, supporting the Council’s “Gold Standard” housing standards and delivering long-term value for the city.

Offsite Benefits Realised On Site

The offsite-first approach has delivered clear and tangible results on site. By sealing buildings from day 1, internal works were able to start sooner, accelerating the overall construction programme and helping keep the scheme on schedule. This early weather-tightness also protected the budget by reducing costly downtime, safeguarding against volatile trade rates that can quickly escalate on projects of this scale.

The change in methodology also led to cleaner, safer sites. With less onsite handling and fewer overlapping trades, the working environment became easier to manage, improving both health and safety outcomes and overall site logistics.

In addition, the specification of Silk Grey Logik windows provided a consistent, high-quality finish across all homes, aligning with the design team’s material palette and aesthetic ambitions. The recycled content within the frames supported Aberdeen City Council’s wider social value and environmental goals, contributing to a more sustainable development that will serve its community for decades to come.

The scheme remains on track for completion by April 2026, setting a new benchmark for how offsite innovation can bring cost and programme certainty to complex public housing projects.

If you have any questions or would like more information then please email: newbuild@eurocell.co.uk or call 0870 120 3003.

Sympathetic waterproofing solution to historic structure

Building Products Index Ltd Membranes, Waterproof Membranes Leave a Comment

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Overview

The former Bradford Odeon Cinema, saved from demolition by a local campaign, has been transformed into an exciting music venue, newly named “Bradford Live”. Built in 1930, the cinema hosted famous acts like the Beatles and the Rolling Stones in the 1960s before being left derelict for 23 years.

The venue will feature a main auditorium, smaller spaces for corporate events, weddings, and graduations, and will host business conferences, awards ceremonies, comedy shows, and family entertainment.

Construction started in 2021, with many original features, such as the ballroom’s art deco ceiling, being restored.

Delta Registered Installers, Timberwise (UK) Ltd having worked with the main contractor previously, were called upon to give assistance on a dry rot outbreak and to design a custom, robust waterproofing solution for the large underground basement.

The scope of the project was to provide a Grade 3 environment to a large existing large basement which will feature multiple bars, toilets, seating areas along with further excavation for lift pits, etc.

This complex project required a specialist to provide an efficient, compliant, and future proof approach.

Methodology

Timberwise (UK) Ltd collaborated with architects and the project team to provide a straightforward, effective approach. Their waterproofing design ensured a robust and suitable system that integrated seamlessly with the structure, adhering to BS 8102:2022 standards, Approved Documents, and industry Best Practice Guidance. This design emphasised continuity, proper sequencing and installation, and future maintenance and serviceability.

Timberwise (UK) Ltd specified a Delta Type C system.  A Type C waterproofing system, or cavity drain membrane system (CDM), effectively manages water ingress by creating a drainage cavity within the structure, directing water to a sump and pump or external drain. Key benefits include flexibility for both new and existing properties, a ‘failsafe’ design that doesn’t rely on external barriers, and reversible installation suitable for historic buildings.  The system’s discreet internal finishing and under-cover installation allow work to proceed regardless of weather conditions and reduce susceptibility to minor installation defects compared to surface barriers.

Before installation of the Delta Type C system, all existing walls and new concrete slab were treated with Koster Polysil TG 500 anti-lime inhibiter to seal the surfaces and reduce the leaching of ‘free lime’ which could cause blockages behind the membranes.

Attention was given to all wall/floor junctions and fillet seals were created.   Angles are potential stress points for waterproofing systems.  These crack endangered areas require special attention.

Delta PT, a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) cavity drain membrane which features a plastic mesh welded to its dimpled surface, serves as an impermeable damp proofing base for plaster or shotcrete, and functions as a water control and drainage membrane.   Delta PT was securely fixed to the internal walls using specialist fixing plugs, with Delta MS20 installed to floors.

Below the floor membrane perimeter drainage channels were sited within rebates allowing for suitable drainage of any future water ingress and this being diverted to suitable discharge point (on this occasion a mechanical pump system).

To ensure the Type C system was fully maintainable, inspection ports were located at every major change of direction.

The basement drainage system features four Dual Delta Pumping Stations, each with an individual high level water alarm (HLA) and battery backup systems to keep pumps running in event of mains power outage.

All floors and drainage elements were tested to ensure these would drain as the system was designed and BS 8102:2022 requirements were met.

A new lift pit waterproofing detail has been integrated into the elevator system, featuring a preformed liner sandwiched between concrete, enabling lift engineers to drill internally without compromising the waterproofing system.

The need to service and maintain the drainage elements of type C waterproofing systems is paramount to long-term success.  Timberwise (UK) Ltd, incorporated inspection ports in the perimeter channel and installed the sump pump in a location that allows easy access for periodic servicing.

After the Type C System was installed the all-important final integrity testing was undertaken to exercise the waterproofing system in worst case scenario.

Products Used

  • Delta PT
  • Delta MS 20
  • Koster Polysil TG 500
  • Delta Tape/Cornerstrip
  • Delta Drainage Channel
  • Delta Packaged Pumping Stations
  • High Level Alarms
  • Battery Backups

Case Study Results

The former Bradford Odeon Cinema has been transformed from an unused derelict building back to its former glory for many theatrical and musical performances to be enjoyed once again.

The project was delivered on time and to budget.

The client was delighted with Timberwise (UK) Ltd’s ability to collaborate throughout the build process, adapting to phasing and sequencing to provide a robust waterproofing solution.         

 

Painting Period Properties

Building Products Index Ltd Paint Leave a Comment

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The UK is blessed with such an array of period properties, from medieval and Tudor homes built 500 years ago or more, distinctive Georgian and Victorian houses all the way through to Edwardian and Arts and Crafts Eras. Whilst this provides a beautifully diverse range of properties, it is important to know which paint finishes are designed for heritage buildings.

How Do You Decorate Period Properties?

If you have invested in a period property, it probably means that you have fallen in love with their original features, so it’s important to use decorating products that are sympathetic to the architecture.

At Brewers, we have a wide range of finishes that are suitable to properties that may need a more specialist product.

Before you book a decorator or pick up a paint brush, verify any listed building status or whether the properties fall within the boundaries of a Conservation Area; there are strict rules about everything from using suitable materials for repair and replacement through to permitted colours.

Always consult the conservation officer at your local authority before you undertake any work.

Repairs And Maintenance Of Period Properties

For restoration work, always seek the help of a professional who has experience with period properties.

There could be a wide range of issues to look out for such as damp and mould, powdery/ cracked walls or blown plaster, as well as damaged render and rotten wood.

Any existing paintwork may well have been painted with original paints, including lead paint, lime-based paint or distemper that must be considered before any redecoration can take place.

For rotten timber, Repair Care, has a good range of products suited to lasting repair of timber sash windows and various substrates. You can find out more about Repair Care here.

Painting Period Properties

Inside and outside, breathability of the surface is essential.

Slate damp courses in brickwork only emerged in the Victorian era, but they weren’t compulsory and certainly aren’t as effective as modern damp-proof membranes.

We stock a wonderful range of products suited to painting period properties thanks to their historically sympathetic ingredients.

Interior Finishes:

Zinsser Grade I is specially formulated for interior ceiling and wall decoration in converted churches and other period properties.

Earthborn Claypaint is a luxurious, ultra matt finish product, suitable for interior walls and ceilings.

The unique clay recipe results in a highly breathable and hard-wearing paint, eliminating emissions and smells.

Farrow & Ball also have a range of finishes designed for period properties.

Casein Distemper has a breathable, permeable structure that is suited to plaster walls and ceilings, creating a very flat finish.

Soft Distemper is a very soft, powdery finish for interior plasterwork. Its blend of natural resin and minerals is designed to be easily removed, allowing detail to be preserved on intricate mouldings.

Exterior Finishes:

Earthborn Silicate Masonry Paint is a durable and highly breathable alternative to conventional masonry paints and limewash that dries to a classic, matt finish.

It is highly weather resistant and can be used on porous mineral surfaces such as stone, masonry, concrete, pebbledash, plaster and sound silicate-based painted surfaces.

It’s especially suitable for renovation projects.

Farrow & Ball Limewash is a specialist historical finish for both interior and exterior walls and ceilings, bonding to the building itself to protect from the elements.

It’s a very flat matt finish and is highly breathable.

Brands such as Johnstone’s, ISOMAT and Sandtex also offer breathable masonry paint solutions that could be the ideal finish for your project.

Historical Paint Colours

Once you have found a suitable finish, have a think about the most appropriate colours to use.

Many paint brands celebrate heritage paint colours including collections from Dulux Heritage, Farrow & Ball, Little Greene and Mylands.

For more information about finding your perfect finish, head into your local Brewers Decorator Centre.

Bridging design and accessibility with Stannah’s stairlift at luxury Islay hotel

Building Products Index Ltd Lift, Platform Leave a Comment

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Ardbeg House, a boutique luxury hotel on the picturesque island of Islay, Scotland, has opened its doors as a truly immersive whisky and hospitality experience, with a newly installed Stannah Stairiser CR2 inclined platform lift providing guests with full accessibility to upper floors.

Featuring twelve individually themed bedrooms, the hotel combines luxury, creativity and storytelling inspired by the island’s famous Ardbeg distillery and heritage. The hotel interiors include striking copper wall art, a custom-designed boat chandelier and interactive features including buttons labelled Press for Smoke, which release a smoky whisky scent. Guests can also enjoy tours of the local distillery and a quality food and drink menu with an Ardbeggian twist.

The work

 Designed in collaboration with Russell Sage Studio, Ardbeg House honours the heritage of Ardbeg while creating immersive spaces that reflect the island’s culture and the distillery’s iconic history. Over 20 local and Scottish architects contributed to weaving Ardbeg’s story into the hotel’s design, which also involved seamlessly integrating the Stannah Stairiser CR2 with customised solutions. Stannah Lifts collaborated closely with Russell Sage Studio and main contractor Thomas Johnstone to supply a custom lift solution that met both the functional and aesthetic requirements.

The Challenge

The hotel required a custom solution to provide disabled access to its upper floors, which presented three main challenges. The first challenge was accessing the island, as transporting equipment involved careful planning and coordination with ferry services to ensure timely delivery and installation without disrupting the renovation schedule.

The second challenge was addressing the space constraints. The hotel had no space to accommodate a passenger lift, so an inclined platform lift was the best option. However, the staircase area was small, requiring a compact design. Following a detailed assessment of the space, a Stannah CR2 inclined platform lift was chosen as the ideal solution. The lift’s slimline design further minimised wall projection, and the platform folds neatly when not in use, preserving staircase space. The platform dimensions of 800mm by 1000mm comfortably accommodate a wheelchair and user, while raised ramps and safety barrier arms ensure secure and safe operation.

The goal was to provide safe and reliable access for wheelchair users without disrupting the visual appeal of the hotel interiors. To achieve this, a bespoke colour was selected for the platform lift, ensuring it blended seamlessly with the surrounding walls and décor.

The results

The Stairiser CR2 now provides safe and reliable access to the two upper floors of Ardbeg House, allowing all guests to enjoy the hotel’s immersive and unique experience. Equipped with remote call stations, wheelchair users can summon the lift independently from the top or bottom of the stairs, ensuring convenient operation.

Designed for use on a curved rail, the Stairiser CR2 follows the natural flow of the staircase while keeping outward projection to a minimum. This innovative feature makes the Stairiser CR2 equally well suited for installations featuring a single turn, multiple landings or spiral configurations.

To ensure the stairlift complemented the hotel’s rich Ardbeggian interiors, the rail and carriage were finished in a custom green paint specifically chosen to match the hotel’s décor. This carefully considered design decision allowed the lift to feel like a natural part of the space, making the lift an integral element of the storytelling and design.

With the installation of the Stairiser CR2 completed in just two days, Ardbeg House continues to offer a world-class whisky and hospitality experience that is now fully accessible to every guest.

Dimitri De Juliis, Technical Sales Consultant at Stannah Lifts Scotland, said: “Working on Ardbeg House was an exciting challenge because it required a solution that improved access while seamlessly blending with the interiors. By customising the stairlift with a bespoke green finish, we were able to provide full accessibility without compromising the hotel’s luxurious design. Careful logistical planning was also essential, as all equipment had to be transported to the island via ferry. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how naturally the lift integrates into such a unique and immersive space.”

For more information, visit: www.stannahlifts.co.uk

NAYLOR NAMED BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

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Fourth-generation family-owned business, the Naylor Group, has won the coveted ‘Business of the Year’ award in the Barnsley and Rotherham Business Awards.  Organised and hosted by the Barnsley and Rotherham Chamber of Commerce, the highly sought-after awards celebrate the very best individuals and organisations operating throughout South Yorkshire.

Described as a ‘standout winner’, Naylor was recognised for transforming its business with a 2-year, £18m investment programme, a commitment to innovation, sustainability and employee development and a growth in sales to £70-million, all while championing inclusivity, mental health and community impact.

Edward Naylor, Naylor Chairman, comments: “We’ve been on quite a journey over the past few years. Historically, we manufactured clay pipes for the construction industry – but were seeing steady decline in demand. We recognised that we needed to adapt our business by diversifying our product range, entering new markets and perhaps most important of all, investing in the communities we serve, creating opportunities for the next generation to forge successful careers in the manufacturing sector.”

Founded 135 years ago and now employing 350 people, Naylor also won the Large Business of the Year Award and was highly commended for the Sustainability Award following the implementation of numerous sustainability initiatives which resulted in a 89% reduction in energy consumption and the repurposing of 7000 tonnes of plastic waste which would otherwise have been sent to landfill.

Yorkshire-based Naylor operates seven factories and its products are used extensively on civils, building and general construction projects throughout the UK. Three of its factories and some two-thirds of its employees are based in Barnsley.

Eurobrick’s technical expertise delivers precision finish for McDonald’s Buxton

Building Products Index Ltd Cladding, X-Clad Leave a Comment

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Eurobrick Systems recently supplied its X-Clad cladding system together with specially sourced stone slips for a new McDonald’s restaurant in Buxton, working closely with long-term client A.E.P. (Modular Construction) Limited to achieve a high-quality finish on a complex and technically demanding project.

Although the completed building appears simple at first glance, the design featured multiple stone sizes and detail bands running around the structure, demanding meticulous estimating and layout planning and design input to ensure perfect alignment of the components.

Eurobrick’s 25mm X-Clad system was installed onto sheathing board, providing a robust, insulated backing for the stone finishes. In total, Eurobrick supplied 419m² of cladding, with the stone sourced to complement the local architecture and meet planning conditions.

The finish included two types of stone slips and additional stone features:

  • Dunhouse Buff Pitched face stone – this is a natural quarried stone. Eurobrick’s technical team visited the quarry to confirm specifications and around356m² was supplied.
  • Dunhouse Buff Ashlar stone – natural stone used for false window infill panels, totalling14m².
  • Procter Cast Stone Ashlar (Bathstone colour) – a manufactured stone used for perimeter feature bands, totalling approximately50m².

The project included a number of architectural feature details in Procter Cast Stone Bathstone finish, including lintels and cills for windows and false windows, a cornice detail around the building perimeter, and coping to the top of the main structure, corral area and boundary walls. Eurobrick also supplied a large cast surround for the main entrance, which was built in seven sections.

Stone slips were delivered elevation by elevation to co-ordinate with the build schedule. The bespoke production process at the quarry required careful planning to ensure the correct materials were available on site when needed. To achieve precise alignment, the design incorporated five different corner types, helping to avoid small cut pieces around window openings and ensuring a clean, consistent finish.

James Ball from the technical team at Eurobrick said:

“On the face of it, the building looks simple, but it was anything but. It required detailed day to day management liaising regularly with A.E.P., the installers on site and the quarry. Natural, quarried stone is an expensive material and it had to be right!”

Eurobrick has worked with A.E.P. for more than 25 years, providing high-quality brick and stone slip systems for modular construction projects across the UK.

Mark Lawrence, Director at A.E.P. (Modular Construction) commented:

“Eurobrick have been trusted suppliers for many, many years. Their products are good quality and they always provide excellent service. Eurobrick’s technical team went above and beyond in estimating, overseeing the production of the stone slips and closely managing delivery schedules to ensure the right materials arrived when needed. Buxton was a complex project and Eurobrick’s attention to detail contributed in no small part to its successful completion. The new restaurant looks terrific, and we and our clients are delighted.”

Eurobrick has been supplying McDonald’s various contractors for over 30 years and remain at the forefront of the UK’s brick and stone slip cladding industry. Its systems — including X-Clad, A-Clad, P-Clad, and I-Clad — are widely used across modular, retail, education, and residential sectors. Renowned for quality, service, and technical expertise, Eurobrick continues to deliver innovative cladding solutions that combine traditional aesthetics with modern efficiency.

For more information on Eurobrick systems and products please visit their website at www.eurobrick.co.uk, email info@eurobrick.co.uk or call 0117 971 7117

THE GLASDON OLYMPIC™ GRP MODULAR BUILDING SYSTEM: CELEBRATING OVER 40 YEARS OF SUCCESS

Building Products Index Ltd shelters Leave a Comment

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From serving the fastest zip line in the world and even featuring at several consecutive Olympic and Commonwealth games, the Glasdon Olympic™ Modular Building System is globally renowned for its durability, reliability and superior design.

Versatile, Reliable and Durable

Available in a large range of colours, the Glasdon Olympic is ideal for permanent and/or ticket kiosks, security posts, car park kiosks, check-in booths, sentry posts, personnel shelters, control booths, security cabins, equipment storage and modular toll booths.

Constructed from low-maintenance Glassfibre Reinforced Polyester (GRP), the high-quality material provides the building with a smooth, semi-gloss external surface and a smart appearance for many years. Ideal for the harshest of environments.

The system’s colour options further add to its versatility. While the standard external finish is Beige, the external walls and roof can be supplied in close to any BS colour. This allows for seamless harmonisation with surrounding architecture and a precise match to corporate identities, ensuring a truly bespoke feel.

Simple Installation and Long-Term Flexibility

 Projects often require quick and hassle-free deployment. The Glasdon Olympic is designed to be convenient and delivered/offloaded in fully assembled form, reducing on-site disruption and ease of installation. Its robust construction allows the building to be easily relocated in the future, adding to long-term flexibility.

The Glasdon Olympic accommodates a wide range of optional features for internal comfort and function, including lighting, heating, glazing, and ventilation, allowing customers to tailor the building precisely to their specific operational needs.

Where required, the modular design also allows for on-site assembly, further adding to the flexibility of the system for more remote and restricted access sites.

Available Sizes: 1200 x 1500mm and/or 2200mm x 1500mm (external dimensions) floor plan, with a consistent height of 2415mm and weighing either 215kg (1200 x 1500mm) or 450kg (2200mm x 1500mm).

With a proven track record, easy deployment, customisable colours, and long-lasting construction, the Glasdon Olympic is a symbol of Glasdon’s commitment to providing sustainable, high-quality and long-term building solutions.

Interested in more off-site construction and modular building and housing systems? Visit our website and discover our range.

Tesco Stratford-Upon-Avon Shines Brighter with Abacus LED Upgrade

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

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Tesco’s Stratford-upon-Avon store, a key retail hub operating extended hours, has successfully transitioned from outdated metal halide lighting to a state-of-the-art LED system designed and implemented by Abacus Lighting. This upgrade enhances safety, energy efficiency, and sustainability across the site, delivering a safer environment for both shoppers and staff.

The Challenge

The original metal halide outdoor lighting posed challenges, including inconsistent illumination, high energy consumption, and costly maintenance. Tesco required a reliable, energy-efficient LED solution that aligned with its nationwide sustainability goals while also improving visibility in the car park, service yard, and canopy areas.

The Solution

Abacus Lighting delivered this project that included 13 new 10-metre root-mounted columns, primarily fitted with the advanced 250W Orion Pro symmetrical LED luminaires, complemented by one asymmetrical Orion Pro fitting for targeted lighting in the customer drop-off zone.

Additional pedestrian zones were illuminated with two new 8-metre columns equipped with Abacus’s EOS 34W LED lanterns, and existing columns were upgraded to maintain consistent lighting standards. Further improvements included adding eight more 250W Orion Pro units to ensure that the Tesco site was safely and securely lit.

Abacus – Benefits Delivered

  • Energy Savings: The LED upgrade significantly cuts energy consumption compared to metal halide lamps, reducing operational costs and environmental impact.
  • Improved Lighting Quality: Enhanced colour rendering and instant-on technology provide superior visibility without warm-up delays.
  • Lower Maintenance: Long lifespan of Orion Pro and EOS luminaires means fewer replacements and less disruption.
  • Optimised Installation: Market-leading spacing between Orion Pro columns reduces the number of lighting masts required, speeding installation and lowering costs.
  • Future Proofing: The system supports advanced controls (DALI 2 and D4i) and is built to withstand harsh conditions with IP66 and IK10 ratings.

Tesco Stratford now benefits from a modern, sustainable lighting system that boosts safety, supports environmental targets, and enhances the customer experience.

Abacu Lighting Key Products Used

Orion Pro LED Floodlight:

  • Available in 125W, 250W, and 500W options with 4000K color temperature (3000K optional)
  • Symmetrical and asymmetrical beam patterns for versatile applications
  • High lumen output (up to 72,000 lm) with excellent beam control to minimise light pollution
  • IP66 and IK10 rated, suitable for ambient temperatures up to 40°C (50°C optional)
  • Supports Zhaga interfaces and programmable lumen output for tailored lighting designs

EOS LED Lantern:

  • Three body sizes with wattages from 7W to 171W and multiple optic options
  • Ideal for pedestrian areas, car parks, retail parks, and railway stations
  • IP66 rated with robust, powder-coated finish for longevity in harsh environments
  • Tool-less, quick-access electrical compartments for easy maintenance

 

 

Additional Links:

Watch the Orion Pro LED product video: Abacus Lighting I Orion Pro LED Video

View more details on the Orion Pro LED Luminaires: Abacus Lighting Ltd | Orion Pro LED

See more details on Abacus’s EOS LED Lanterns: Abacus Lighting Ltd | EOS Lantern

Send Abacus Lighting an enquiry: Abacus Lighting Ltd | Contact us

Airtightness simplified and certified: a decade of Wraptite®’s BBA

Building Products Index Ltd Breathable Membranes, Membranes Leave a Comment

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November 16th 2025 marks ten years since Wraptite® – the self-adhered, vapour permeable, airtightness membrane from Proctor Group – first received a BBA certificate.

Wraptite’s development has mirrored changes in the UK’s building regulations and standards. Consistent improvements in energy efficiency and airtightness requirements have presented challenges to designers, specifiers and installers; Wraptite offers a simple solution.

Wraptite has become the go-to external airtightness solution – not just in the UK, but globally. The membrane delivers its combination of airtightness and vapour permeability in all climates, and its distinctive red colour is visible on construction sites and in modular factories around the world.

A brief history of Wraptite

Wraptite was originally developed for the North American market, where vapour impermeable solutions were common. By trapping moisture within timber frame structures, such solutions caused problems for occupants, like mould growth internally.

As building regulations in the UK continued to set stricter targets for energy efficiency, adding more and more insulation became less and less desirable. The law of diminishing returns when it came to improving U-values meant walls were getting too thick or insulation costs too expensive.

Other options were needed to help buildings perform, and specifiers and installers began to focus on airtightness. Tried and tested solutions were few and far between, however.

In 2015, a timber frame show home in Cambridgeshire provided the evidence people were looking for. The home targeted Code for Sustainable Homes Level 5, requiring a whole dwelling airtightness rate of 1m3/m2/hr. Part of the build used a typical internal air and vapour control layer (AVCL), and achieved 0.99m3/m2/hr – but only after applying extra tapes and seals.

Another part of the build used Wraptite and, with no remedial work needed, achieved 0.87m3/m2/hr. A new standard had been set.

Later that same year, Wraptite’s performance was effectively given an independent seal of approval with the issuing of its BBA certificate. Further certification has followed in the years since, and Wraptite is a Passive House certified component.

But it was the membrane’s BBA certificate that really helped to give Wraptite its foothold in the marketplace. Wraptite had shown that it could solve airtightness in one simple step; a BBA certificate provided the extra confidence people were looking for that it performed as the show home suggested.

Much imitated and never bettered

What makes Wraptite so successful? Its vapour permeability, perhaps. Maybe its peel adhesion or fire classification. Or the relative simplicity of its installation.

  • The facades and high-rise market has found many advantages in using Wraptite, like reduced material costs, shorter installation times and optimised building footprints.
  • Many projects seeking the Passivhaus standard (or similar) have turned to Wraptite to meet the required levels of airtightness, control moisture and deliver better occupant comfort.
  • Wraptite’s self-adhered nature fits perfectly with the efficiency of modular and offsite construction, and helps to protect modules during transportation far better than a mechanically fixed solution.

In truth, it’s the combination of Wraptite’s qualities that make it successful. That unique combination has also made it hard for competitors to imitate, and many have tried without bettering it.

Not all membranes are the same, and a product with a lower upfront cost rarely delivers either lower prices or desired performance levels.

Fundamental to Wraptite’s performance is meeting the requirements of BS 5250:2021 Management of moisture in buildings – code of practice. The standard sets a clear definition for how membranes should perform to be classed as vapour permeable or ‘breathable’.

With an sd value of 0.039m, Wraptite’s high vapour permeability easily meets that standard and means any construction moisture can dry out rapidly. Meanwhile, competing products offer a wide range of vapour permeability performance. Some have an sd value as high as 0.26m, which exceeds BS 5250’s upper limit for what a membrane should offer.

In other words, there are membranes claiming to be vapour permeable, which do not meet the basic definition of vapour permeability.

Wraptite features patented technology that helps to deliver its unique vapour transmission properties. One area of particular difference is in the adhesive. Wraptite’s adhesive is vapour permeable, which means it carries vapour to the membrane layer faster, and then allows it to pass through without accompanying air leakage. Most other membranes don’t enjoy that technology.

When it comes to peel adhesion and wind resistance, other products need tapes, adhesives, primers or accessories to support their installation. On a square metre basis, another product may appear cheaper. But if it needs bigger overlaps or additional accessories, or takes longer to install, then it suddenly becomes a lot less economical.

Overall, Wraptite’s track record is backed up by a comprehensive suite of testing and accreditation, as well as a warranty, that other products cannot match.

A lack of testing and certification is a particular concern when it comes to fire performance. There may be products marketed with certain levels of fire performance, but without the test data to back up those claims. With the construction industry’s renewed focus on fire safety, lack of evidence of performance is a significant risk.

A track record of success

Wraptite’s enviable track record in construction projects, plus its certification, means people can trust it will work and has been proven to do so.

One of Wraptite’s earliest breakthroughs, even before the Cambridgeshire show home, was its use on a 2013 project in Corgarff, Aberdeenshire, featuring double skin log cabins. A change in building regulations led to the project stalling. Manufacturers Sylvan Stuart experimented with Wraptite and found it delivered the required airtightness performance in a single, self-adhered layer – and suddenly the traditional construction method had a new lease of life.

Looking at the type of projects Wraptite is routinely used on today, it is fun to reflect on how it has developed from a unique solution for boutique projects to a global membrane product that features on some of the world’s most prestigious and groundbreaking buildings.

Reflecting Wraptite’s worldwide reach, the membrane was used on the refurbishment of the Sunshine Mosque dome in Melbourne, Australia. The complex structure of the Ottoman/Turkish-style mosque featured seventeen concrete dome roofs which were leaking. Wraptite was used as a watertight underlay and separation layer under the zinc finish.

Closer to home, ‘the Diamond Tower’ in Canary Wharf, London featured Wraptite being used in another unique application. To protect exposed structural steels from declension, Wraptite was applied as a temporary protection measure to ensure the Knauf Fire-Tek 160 fire protection would perform as intended once the facade cladding had been installed.

While Wraptite is typically installed on the exterior of walls and roofs, it has also been applied internally. Bower House used Motion Frame Ltd’s Comfort Frame system, an offsite-manufactured internal wall insulation solution that is isolated from the external walls. The system featured Wraptite and helped deliver energy bill reductions of 50%.

As a Scottish company, Proctor Group is delighted to see Wraptite being used to provide future generations with the highest quality learning environments – at the same time as rejuvenating communities. Funding availability has led to a surge in construction of new schools and community campuses, many seeking to achieve the Passivhaus standard.

Examples include: the multi-award nominated Riverside Primary; three different Tayside schools (Perth High School, East End Community Campus in Dundee, and Monifieth Learning Campus); Dumfries High School; and Currie Community High School in Edinburgh.

No mention of Passivhaus is complete without referring to the world’s first Passivhaus leisure centre. Wraptite was used at St Sidwell’s Point in Exeter, including in conjunction with cross-laminated timber (CLT). And when our Managing Director, Keira Proctor, conducted her own eco-house self-build project, she of course opted for Wraptite to provide the external airtightness layer.

Ten years of certification is only the beginning

As building standards evolve, the needs of the construction industry change. While other membrane manufacturers are busy trying to imitate Wraptite – some with limited testing, some with no third-party certification at all – we are busy continuing research and development on our class-leading product.

Climate change; building safety and the Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI); sustainability and environmental product declarations (EPDs). The construction industry does not stand still, and celebrating ten years of Wraptite’s BBA certification is not the end of the story – it is just the beginning.

A SEAMLESS EXTENSION: JULY COTTAGE SHOWCASES MARLEY’S NEW AUTUMN BRINDLE TILE

Building Products Index Ltd Roof tiles, Roofing, Tiles Leave a Comment

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Located in the picturesque village of Great Chesterford, July Cottage recently underwent an extension project to create a stunning new annex building. With the owners looking to blend traditional roofing aesthetics with a refreshed and contemporary finish, the project provided the perfect opportunity to showcase Marley’s new Autumn Brindle colourway from its Acme Single Camber clay plain tile range.

Choosing the right tile

White Roofing Services Ltd, the project’s roofing contractors, needed to find the perfect roof tile to bring the owner’s vision for the new annex to life; while ensuring it was in-keeping with the existing property. Having worked with Marley for over 20 years, the contractors requested a sample of its new Autumn Brindle Single Camber clay plain tile.

Ryan Farrington, Director at White Roofing Services, said: “The client was instantly impressed with the rich, varied tones, and the way the Autumn Brindle tile complemented the existing house and surrounding environment.”

Following the sample request, the decision was made to specify Marley’s Autumn Brindle tiles across the annex’s 140m2 roof.

Ryan added: “With the tile offering a variety of tones, not only did they look great, but because they were machine made, they were also straightforward to install – making it easy to achieve a consistent finish.

“And the end result speaks for itself – a beautiful extension that fits perfectly with the character of July Cottage.”

Commitment to quality and sustainability

Manufactured in the UK using the high-quality, natural Staffordshire Etruria Marl clay, Marley’s Autumn Brindle tiles not only offer a traditional, eye-catching aesthetic, but also ensure durability and long-lasting performance.

Simon Nicholls, Area Specification Manager for Marley said: “The Acme Single Camber tiles are lightweight, yet highly durable, making them an excellent choice for both new builds and refurbishments, such as July Cottage. The precision-moulded single camber profile also offers exceptional water-shedding properties, ensuring long-lasting performance.”

Recognising the importance of sustainability, Marley also offers Environmental Product Declarations across its entire clay, and concrete tile ranges, together with its existing Marley SolarTile® EPD. EPDs provide contractors and specifiers with the information they need to make environmentally responsible product choices. Accredited to the BES 6001 Framework Standard for Responsible Sourcing, also means that projects using Marley’s Acme Single Camber clay tiles can get extra credits under BREEAM.

As Marley continues to innovate and expand its range of roofing solutions, the Autumn Brindle colourway is already proving to be a popular choice amongst roofers and homeowners alike. With its ease of application, rich natural tones and seamless integration with traditional and modern homes, it stands as a testament to Marley’s dedication to quality.

For more information, or to request a sample of the new Autumn Brindle range, visit Marley’s website.