Ion Glass: linking buildings with structural glass

Building Products Index Ltd Architectural Glass, Glass Leave a Comment

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A structural glass link is the optimum way to connect buildings, providing a stylish interface that offers minimal physical intervention and maximum light flow

Above:  An L-shaped glass link connects separate buildings in this luxury single-storey barn conversion. A bespoke design by Ion Glass that ensures the corridor interfaces flawlessly.

Ion Glass are leading specialists in bespoke structural glass, providing an individually tailored service to create glass links across a wide variety of heritage, residential and commercial buildings. They detail some of the key advantages and considerations when installing a glass link:

  • A structural glass linkway meets many different requirements from a simple weatherproof passage between buildings to an integral element of the property
  • A glass link will allow for movement between two buildings of very different age and structure.   In listed or heritage properties, a glass link is often the only approved option to provide an effective interface between structures with different construction techniques
  • Minimal footings are required – the glass linkway can be channel set and fully sealed with silicone
  • Single glazing will provide a fully weather resistant glass installation:  double glazing will allow the glass linkway to become an integral part of the structure of the building, fully compliant with heat loss requirements
  • There are no height or size restrictions, Ion’s technical team will advise on the structural requirements to ensure the finished glass structure is wholly compliant
  • Ion’s glass linkways can be produced without visible fixings, incorporating structural glass fins or structural glass beams to give a robust yet minimal result
  • Glass linkways can be used internally as well as externally and at different levels, incorporating a glass floor if required

Ion Glass offer a full service from concept to the finished product, including design input as required, detailed CAD drawings, all specialist glass calculations, a fully experienced installation team and management of all logistics, including crane hire as necessary.

Above: this suspended glass linkway designed and installed by Ion Glass links a new master bedroom suite to the main house.  Constructed from double-glazed panels, the inclusion of a glass floor allows light to reach the walkway below.

Above: This unusual T-shaped glass link by Ion Glass connects home and garage whilst also creating a spectacular entrance to a swimming pool – it is constructed from double-glazed panels for heat retention

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Above:  This deceptively simple glass link transformed a draughty passageway into a useful space connecting this modern home to the garage.  A glass roof ensures maximum light.

Ion’s bespoke structural glass installations can be found in public buildings, churches, commercial properties and beautiful private homes across the UK and overseas.

Visit www.ionglass.co.uk for more information on bespoke glass linkways, structural glass porches,  glass doors, glass screens, internal or external balustrades,   or other architectural glass installations.

If you have a project you’d like to discuss, call us on 0345 658 9988,  send an email via info@ionglass.co.uk or click on the enquiry form on our website.

Our expert team will discuss your individual requirements and provide a full technical support and installation service whether you are managing a project for a church or heritage building or commissioning structural glass for leisure, residential, or commercial properties.

Beating the Heat with Dales Aluminium Solar Shading

Building Products Index Ltd Solar Shading Leave a Comment

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Dales supplies Solar Shading Solutions for Solihull Retirement Village:

Dales Fabrications supplied their Aluminium Shadex 150 Solar Shading, finished in PWF1 Timber Effect for Solihull Retirement Homes.

Whilst enhancing the architectural appeal of the project, integrating this system into the design also ensured that the buildings would effectively manage solar heat gain from day one, allowing more comfortable living conditions for residents and improving energy efficiency. Moreover, their installation aligns with the guidelines set out by the Part O regulations introduced in June 2022.

The timber effect finish from Dales made it possible to achieve the appearance of timber without the fire risk or risk of algae, warp, deviation and regular turning traditionally associated with timber blades.

Dales also supplied aluminium balcony cladding with self-draining soffits, privacy screens, and ‘window-frame’ cladding for the project.

The £47m retirement village in partnership with the ExtraCare Charitable Trust accommodates over 300 homes for over 55’s and was designed by DLA Architecture.

The need for action:

As we head into summer, many of us will be enjoying the warmer, longer days. However, for several residents in the UK, the increased solar gain and excessive heat create uncomfortable living conditions and may even pose serious health risks.

Whilst the conversation in the UK has typically centred around reducing heating costs and increasing insulation in homes, MPs are increasingly expressing concern and urging immediate government action to protect tenants from the adverse effects of overheating, which can cause health issues such as heat exhaustion and dehydration. Furthermore, there is an urgent call to reduce the need for air conditioning, with The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change suggesting that by 2050, the average number of days a year Europe will require air conditioning will have risen by 30%.

Additionally, this June marks the second anniversary of the implementation of the new part O regulations, which aim to ensure that new residential buildings are designed to minimise overheating and therefore protect occupants’ welfare. The regulations promote sustainable building practices by emphasising energy efficiency and passive cooling techniques. They apply specifically to new residential buildings, including dwellings, common areas of flat blocks, care homes, and halls of residence.  Developers, architects, and builders must all comply.

Solar shading as a solution:

The Building Research Establishment suggests that the installation of external solar shading systems is one of the most cost-effective and least adverse methods of reducing solar gain and therefore, emissions of carbon dioxide during building use. Research indicates that a well-designed solar shading system can pay for itself through energy cost savings within five years.

Solar shades are designed to reflect the sun’s rays, significantly reducing solar heat gain. Aluminium solar shades in particular are a great option as they are durable, weather-resistant, and require minimal maintenance. This makes them an efficient long-term investment for providing an effective, stylish, and durable solution to keeping accommodation cool and comfortable, whilst meeting the requirements of Part O regulations.

Dales Fabrications design and manufacture an extensive range of standard and bespoke aluminium solar shading solutions. Additionally, Dales can advise on the size of the necessary projection and different methods of support available for the different shading types. More details are available at https://www.dales-eaves.co.uk/solar-shading/.

CPDs:

In addition to their product offerings, Dales can also provide in-practice CPD seminars that cover content about Solar Shading systems:

–          Solar Shading: Form, Function and Fire Safety with Part O Update

–          Solar Shading Systems: Compliance with Part O, Part L, and Part B

–          Solar Shading: Form, Function, Fire Safety & the Scottish Building Regulations

–          Solar Shading Systems: Compliance with Scottish Building Regulations

Dales’ CPD seminar ‘Solar Shading Systems: Compliance with Part L: Conservation of Energy and Part B: Fire Safety’ was spotlighted in May’s RIBA CPD Showcase, in the Sustainable Architecture category.

To read more about the CPDs offered, and to book your place you can visit https://www.dales-eaves.co.uk/cpd/.

Photography by a2n (architecturalphotographer.co.uk).

Fire Retardant Waterproofing

Building Products Index Ltd Waterproof Membranes, waterproofing Leave a Comment

View the Delta Membranes entry on BPindex

Technical Drawings – MS Fire Type C Drained Protection – Delta Membranes

Delta Fire Retardant, Type C Waterproofing – Delta Membranes

Comparison Test of Delta MS 500 Fire – Delta Membranes

Fire retardants serve a crucial role in fire safety measures, fire retardant materials possess the unique characteristic to slow down or even halt the spread of fire. This key feature makes them an essential element in fire safety management.

Typically, the concepts of water management and fire safety are not concurrently considered due to their contrasting nature and effects.  Though it may initially appear far-fetched, upon closer inspection, it is not as irrational as it may first seem.

Waterproofing refers to the technique of preventing water from penetrating a structure and controlling the flow of water and water vapor within and out of the structure.  Type C waterproofing integrates two key elements for optimal functionality: Cavity Drainage Membranes and Basement Drainage Systems. These components work in unison to ensure efficient water management in structures.

Type C Cavity Drainage Membranes tend to be crafted from High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE); a tough, durable plastic material known for its high strength-to-density ratio. This material offers excellent resistance to impact, moisture, and chemicals, ensuring long-lasting performance and reliability.  However, polyethylene possesses flammable characteristics.  It can easily catch fire under certain conditions, due to its chemical composition.  When exposed to certain conditions, plastic can undergo a transformation where it starts to melt and subsequently produce droplets. This occurrence is crucial to consider when dealing with plastic materials.

The Euro class system is an analytical tool that evaluates various fire-related characteristics. These include ignitability, the rate at which flames spread, heat emission, smoke generation, and the likelihood of producing flaming droplets or particles.  Products achieving A1 and A2 classification are defined as non-combustible under Regulations.

The Euro class system is designed to unify standards throughout the European Union. It systematically classifies products into seven distinct fire reaction classes, from A1 to F, with F being the most combustible. This classification is determined through a specific test or a combination of tests. This professional framework ensures a consistent approach to product safety standards.

The system offers an extended classification, usually linked to fire response classes D through B. This classification relates to smoke production, ranging from s1, indicating minimal or no smoke, to s3, which signifies considerable smoke. It also categorises flaming droplets or particles, from d0 representing no presence, to d2 signifying a significant amount.  This information is crucial in understanding the behaviour and potential hazards of fires.

Delta MS 500 Fire Retardant is a robust Type C, Cavity Drained Protection system, designed to withstand demanding conditions. It holds a Euroclass fire rating of B-S2, d0 (EN 13501-1:2018), an indication of its superior fire resistance.  Delta MS 500 Fire Retardant does not compromise on its strength, durability, functionality, or workability. This makes it an excellent choice for applications where both fire safety and structural integrity are paramount.

The Delta MS 500 Fire Retardant is a product that carries the BBA certification. This seal of approval signifies that this fire-retardant waterproofing system meets the rigorous standards set by the British Board of Agrément. The certification is an assurance of quality, reliability, and safety in fire retardation.

Flame retardants play a critical role in enhancing safety measures in homes or buildings. Their primary function is to delay the spread of fire, thereby providing occupants with crucial extra time to evacuate and firefighters with additional time to intervene. Moreover, they contribute significantly to preventing property damage, not only from the fire itself, but also from potential water damage arising from automated sprinklers or fire control efforts by local authorities.

Delta Registered Installer Network

The Delta MS 500 Fire Retardant system, is accessible exclusively via the Delta Registered Installer Network.  This network is a trusted source for acquiring this high-quality fire retardant.

Always Happy to Help

For all your project requirements, Delta’s Technical Team is a dependable resource. Offering expert advice, comprehensive support, and timely practical assistance, we cater to your specific needs. Reach us at 01992 523 523 or drop us an email at info@deltamembranes.com.

MEETING PLANNING DEMANDS WITH NEW LINCOLN CLAY PANTILE

Building Products Index Ltd Roof tiles Leave a Comment

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Marley’s new and improved Lincoln Clay Interlocking Pantile, with an s-curve profile and thin leading edge, has recently been specified on a new residential property development in Gainsborough, Lincolnshire.

Located in a conservation area, the home, designed and constructed by My Home Developments, had to meet a number of stringent planning requirements. This included the stipulation that only a clay pantile could be selected for the roofscape.

“When it came to selecting the right tile for the roof, we obviously needed to meet planning requirements, but we also wanted to create a beautiful aesthetic that matched the modern design of the home we envisioned,” explains Tom Crowe, founder, My Home Developments.

“Many of the village’s surrounding properties have traditional, plain clay pantiles on the roof, which look great, but can be limited in colour options. We were looking to create a softer, sleeker appearance, so the roof could blend seamlessly with the rest of the new building’s aesthetic. Marley’s new Lincoln clay pantiles enabled us to achieve exactly that, while still meeting planning requirements.”

Marley’s new Lincoln Clay Interlocking Pantile range is available in single coloured Red Smooth, and Rustic Red, which incorporates a flash of dusting to create a more weathered appearance and enhanced kerb-side appeal. Changes have also been made to the texture of the pantile, so it now offers a marked heritage aesthetic, which ensures greater design choice for specifiers such as Tom.

“Creating new builds in well-established locations means we have to be mindful of blending in and collaborate with the planners to ensure we add to the area’s appeal,” explains Tom. “We opted for the Lincoln in the Red Smooth to achieve exactly this, which has provided a really attractive roof that enhances the modern style we were seeking, while still being in-keeping with the other homes in the area.”

Merchant support

Tom worked with one of the UK’s leading builders’ merchants, Jewson, in Lincoln, to discuss the project and source the best roofing tile to meet his needs. He was made aware that Marley had recently relaunched its Lincoln clay pantile range, with improvements to the colourway and texture. And after seeing a number of photographs of the new product, decided it would be ideal.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ian Milson, Building and Roofing Sales Specialist at Jewson in Lincoln, says: “We’ve worked with Marley for many years, and we had full confidence the new Lincoln would deliver the quality finish Tom was looking for. When it comes to our relationship with our customers, it’s important that we’re able to offer new and innovative products that help get projects completed in the best possible way. Marley’s products enable us to do exactly that. They’re pivotal to all our clients’ roofing projects in the area.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cadell Beasley, Area Specification Manager at Marley, says: “The new Lincoln delivers a sleek aesthetic and modern appearance, while still carrying the traditional feel of a heritage clay pantile roof. We’ve worked with important suppliers, such as Jewson, to promote the advantages of the new Lincoln, and it’s great to see it now being specified on projects such as the residential development in Gainsborough.”

Production for the new Lincoln has also moved to Keele in Staffordshire, with the clay used for its manufacture now sourced from nearby quarries. This makes Marley one of the only providers of a British-made clay pantile.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“The decision to transition our production to the UK will deliver environmental benefits too, through a reduction in shipping and transport requirements, and subsequent reductions in associated carbon emissions,” continues Cadell. “It will also provide additional versatility and assurance of product supply for the UK roofing sector.”

Speaking about the end result, Tom concludes: “The relaunch of the new Lincoln was perfectly timed for our development project. The clay pantile not only looks good, but it was also easy to install. The fact that it’s manufactured in the UK is another plus point for us.

“The finished roofscape adheres perfectly to the wishes of the local planners, allows the property to sit seamlessly alongside the neighbouring houses and is a great example of the natural beauty that clay pantiles are renowned for.”

To find out more about Marley’s Lincoln range, click here.

Eurocell Sets Benchmark For Recycled PVCu In Extrusion

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

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Eurocell, which operates the largest PVC-U recycling operation in the UK, achieved 32 per cent recycled PVC-U in extrusion in 2023, up from 27 per cent in 2021 – setting a new bar for recycled materials in the design and manufacture of its PVC-U windows and doors.

Eurocell’s dedication to sustainability is demonstrated through its innovative manufacturing processes, where its profiles division blends raw PVC resin with recycled materials sourced from the company’s cutting-edge recycling plants located in Selby, North Yorkshire, and Ilkeston, Derbyshire.

These facilities are pivotal in transforming factory offcuts and old window frames, which would likely end up in landfill, into reusable raw materials. In 2023 alone, Eurocell’s recycling operations saved the equivalent of approximately 3 million window frames from landfill. The business operates a closed-loop recycling system to ensure that waste PVC-U can be reused, significantly reducing environmental impact.

Sandra Gaspar, Head of Recycling at Eurocell, commented: “The increase to 32 per cent in the proportion of recycled materials in our extrusion process, is a testament to our ongoing commitment to sustainability and demonstrates how we are leading the way in PVC-U recycling.

“By integrating more recycled content into our products, we not only reduce our carbon footprint but also provide our customers with high-quality, sustainable building solutions. We are helping the industry reduce waste and lower its carbon footprint, which is what we want our forward strategy to help deliver as we look to make further inroads in our recycling operation.”

Looking ahead, Eurocell has set an ambitious target to increase the proportion of recycled PVC-U in its products to 40% by 2030. The company’s recycling initiatives also extend beyond its own operations and they are actively working with third-party sites to optimise material recovery and reduce waste, aiming to increase the percentage of waste recycled to 88% by 2025 and to 93% by 2030.

Eurocell facilitates efficient PVC-U recycling for installers and fabricators through its closed-loop recycling system. By offering reliable and timely collections from any UK site, Eurocell ensures that PVC-U waste is managed responsibly. The service includes all aspects of waste management, from collection and transport to documentation, with waste transfer notes provided to demonstrate responsible handling – a testament to why the home improvement specialist won “Best PVC-U Manufacturer & Recycler 2023 – UK” at the Design and Build Awards 2023.

With a focus on continuous improvement and innovation, Eurocell is leading the way in PVC-U recycling within the industry, providing sustainable, low-carbon products, to meet the growing demand for sustainable building products.

Sustainable Solutions

Eurocell’s Logik 70mm window system, delivers an energy performance specification of 1.2 U-value. Thisinnovative and sustainable window solution, features over 40% recycled PVC-U in the central core of the profile with virgin PVC-U on visible faces to ensure the same aesthetics and technical performance, but with more environmentally responsible credentials.

Exceeding Energy Efficiency Specifications

Eurocell has been pivotal in product design that not only keeps ahead of legislation changes but alsoenables design flexibility to meet any challenge, with an example being the Modus 75mm window system, with the ability to achieve 0.8 U-Value, offering slim sightlines that replicate those of an aluminium system, while supported with the manufacture process of more than >50% recycled content it drives the dedication to sustainability.

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

SOPREMA DuoFlex Systems Achieve UK BBA Accreditation

Building Products Index Ltd waterproofing Leave a Comment

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3rd June 2024 – United Kingdom – SOPREMA, a global leader in waterproofing, roofing, thermal and acoustic insulation solutions, proudly announces that its innovative DuoFlex hot melt single pour system has received UK BBA (British Board of Agrément) accreditation. This esteemed accreditation endorses DuoFlex for a variety of applications including weatherproofing inverted roofs, zero fall roofs, roof gardens, blue roof specifications in combination with stormwater attenuation systems, and protected roofs with limited access in flat roof specifications.

The Ultimate Comprehensive Roofing Solution

DuoFlex products and structural waterproofing systems are designed to meet the dynamic needs of modern construction. They deliver unparalleled performance with key features that set the standard in the industry. With an unrestricted fire resistance classification, DuoFlex ensures maximum safety, using configurations such as loose-laid gravel, sand/cement screed, and cast stone slabs. The system’s hot liquid application guarantees optimal adhesion, creating a fully integrated, robust bond with the roof structure. Its monolithic, self-healing properties provide a seamless, durable waterproof barrier that can repair small penetrations autonomously. Additionally, DuoFlex supports fast-track and phased installations, making it perfect for projects with tight schedules. Backed by substantial warranties – 30 years for the single pour system and an impressive 40 years for the double pour system making it the ultimate solution for your comprehensive roofing needs.

Industry Recognition

“Achieving BBA approval is a significant milestone that underscores the quality, performance and long service life of the DuoFlex systems.” Says Mike Vaczi, Technical Director for SOPREMA UK. “The rigorous testing and evaluation by the BBA confirm that DuoFlex meets the highest standards in waterproofing and durability, supporting sustainable, modern building practices, and contributing to the creation of structures that will last a lifetime”, Mike continues. “Combine this with SOPREMA’s extensive technical expertise from site inspection, project calculations and specifications, core sampling, condition reporting and design consultation, and you can trust in our dedicated team of technical experts to support you with your project from start to finish.”

Conclusion

The UK BBA accreditation of SOPREMA’s DuoFlex hot melt single and double pour systems highlights their exceptional quality and performance. With comprehensive system solutions, superior fire resistance, extended warranties, and self-healing capabilities, DuoFlex is an outstanding choice for modern construction projects. It’s versatility and sustainability credentials make it a leadingproduct in the market.

For more information on SOPREMA DuoFlex systems and to explore how they can benefit your next project, please visit soprema.co.uk, or contact our technical support team via techsupport@soprema.co.uk

Clement manufactures Jansen thermally broken steel windows and doors

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

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The manufacture of new steel windows and doors from Jansen cold formed steel profiles is now fully underway at the Clement Windows Group factory.

Clement’s Jansen steel profile windows and doors are suitable for new build projects and replacement work alike. The strong, narrow frames meet the high standards required for thermal insulation, security and fire protection.  Available with both double and triple insulated glass units and with a number of glazing and locking options, they can be fitted into all opening types.

The range includes single and double doors which are appropriate for busy areas due to their durability.

Clement recently supplied fire rated doors and screens from the Jansen range to Grade II* listed City of London Freemen’s School ensuring that the redesigned Sixth Form Centre met current Building Regulations. The internal fire rated doors and screens at the top of the internal stairs are access controlled and linked into the main fire control of the building.

Jansen is one of the leading producers of cold formed, thermally broken steel profile systems for windows and doors. The company is headquartered in Switzerland and is well known for the quality, performance and resilience of its products.

Clement Windows Group manufactures an innovative range of steel windows, doors and screens, specialising in conservation work for both private residences and commercial projects.  A range of conservation rooflights is also available from stock in either a tile or a slate profile, with bespoke options too.

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

Banksy artwork helps fund award-winning Wellbeing Hub for UHS

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

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Following the sale of Banksy’s Game Changer artwork in 2021, the proceeds were used across the UK for a number of healthcare projects, including a new Wellbeing Hub at University Hospital Southampton (UHS).

Record-breaking Banksy sale

Completed in 2023, the Wellbeing Hub at UHS was funded by some of the proceeds from the sale of street artist Banksy’s Game Changer artwork.  The artwork was gifted to Southampton Hospitals Charity by Banksy in May 2020, during the height of the Covid pandemic, and was then sold at auction in 2021 for a record-breaking £16.7m. The proceeds from the auction were distributed to over 40 healthcare organisations and charities across the UK to be used for mental health and wellbeing projects.

The Wellbeing Hub design

UHS wanted to use their funding to create a new space for their NHS staff, providing them with modern facilities including a gym, kitchen, lounge, meeting rooms, shower and changing rooms.

Leading brick slip systems supplier Eurobrick, based in Bristol, has been providing Integra Buildings, a modular building company near Hull in East Yorkshire, since 2010.  Eurobrick provide flexible brick slip cladding solutions for all types of projects offering a quick, easy and robust solution. Brick slip cladding is lightweight, durable and will weather and age like conventional brickwork, requiring little to no maintenance.

The design of the Wellbeing Hub is made up of 20 modular bays which were manufactured at Integra’s headquarters and then delivered to the site for assembly. As part of a mixed palette of finishes, Eurobrick supplied their 50mm thick insulated X-Clad system and two slips from their Britannia range. Rustic Orange Multi 687 slips and corners were primarily fitted at ground floor level, and Smooth Anthracite 700 slips and corners were used to create the plinth detail.

Award-winning success

The project was a great success with Paul Stansfield, Principal Project Manager, Estates Facilities and Capital Developments at UHS saying, “The finished product speaks for itself and is now enjoyed by our 14,000 staff, providing a modern, relaxing and essential wellbeing environment.”

In May 2024 Integra Buildings won ‘Project of the Year – Healthcare’ for the UHS Wellbeing Hub at the MMC Awards, which celebrate excellence and achievement in the modular construction sector.

For more information on Eurobrick, please visit www.eurobrick.co.uk. You can also visit the showroom at its Bristol office which is open 9am-4:30pm, Monday to Friday.

Ensuring fire safety in high rise buildings: The essential role of access panels

Building Products Index Ltd Access Panels Leave a Comment

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In the dynamic environment of commercial and industrial buildings, facilities managers are tasked with the responsibility of maintaining a safe environment for building occupants and crucial to that is minimising fire risks.

Following the Grenfell Tower fire in 2017, The Golden Thread concept was introduced as part of the Building Safety Act, which highlights the need for better documentation, transparency and accountability in the context of building safety and management.

Naturally, facilities management professionals are some of those with the greatest responsibility for ensuring that the Golden Thread of building safety information is maintained, accessible and up-to-date.

This requires the accurate documentation of any changes, upgrades or maintenance work carried out, which contributes to recording the overall building safety and regulatory compliance.

Commercial and industrial buildings will house numerous complex systems, including fire suppression systems, electrical installations and HVAC infrastructure; all of which require routine inspections and maintenance to ensure their efficiency and compliance with safety regulations.

One critical component that facilitates this maintenance is access panels. Beyond their functional purpose of providing access for maintenance personnel to inspect, service and repair systems, access panels play a significant yet often overlooked role when it comes to fire safety.

During the building’s initial construction, major contractors should seek to install fire rated access panels where third-party certification can be supplied.

An example of this third-party certification is the Certifire scheme, which ensures the quality and reliability of fire protection products, thus guaranteeing that these have been rigorously tested and comply with relevant safety standards within the Building Safety Act.

Certifire accredited access panels can ensure the highest standards of safety and protection against the spread of flames and smoke in the event of a fire through swift containment, which in turn, can minimise property damage and save lives.

The installation of these panels will ensure that facilities managers will always be able to provide third party certification for these products at the time of installation, which provides them peace of mind within the buildings they maintain, and ensures that adherence to the Golden Thread and legal compliance is achieved.

In order to achieve this, facilities managers should maintain an up-to-date record of access panel locations, which clearly specifies their purpose.

This information – which will be proactively shared by conscientious suppliers – helps in identifying access points which provide crucial entry to fire suppression systems, allowing easy inspection, repair and maintenance, as well as enabling emergency responders quick and efficient access during the event of a fire.

In addition, any modifications made to access panels, such as installations, maintenance, relocations or upgrades, should be promptly recorded. This documentation aids in tracking the history and condition of access panels, ensuring that maintenance is conducted timely and potential fire safety risks are swiftly addressed.

Finally, irrespective of the industry, compliance with fire safety regulations is essential.

Accurate documentation of access panels assists facility managers in demonstrating compliance to regulatory authorities during building inspections and audits. Outdated or inadequate documentation can lead to compliance issues, costly penalties, or in worst case scenarios, compromised fire safety.

Third-party Certifire tested and accredited access panels can ensure the highest standards of safety and protection against the spread of flames and smoke in the event of a fire through swift containment, which in turn, can minimise property damage and save lives.

Access panels stand as vital components in the broader framework of fire safety within commercial and industrial buildings, through facilitating routine inspections, efficient maintenance, and swift access during firefighting efforts in the event of an emergency.

The relationship between fire rated access panels and the Golden Thread highlights the necessity of meticulous record-keeping throughout the building’s lifecycle, which not only helps in maintaining regulatory compliance, but also enhances the overall fire safety management of the building.

By prioritising this, facilities managers can plan an essential role in fortifying the building’s fire safety resilience, create a safer environment for occupants and ensure that fire safety obligations are met.

For further information on Profab Access and its range of riser doors, access panels, and steel doors, call +44(0)1827 718 222 or visit www.profabaccess.com.

What increasing UK electricity demand means for specifiers of home heating and hot water systems

Building Products Index Ltd Heating, Hot Water Cylinders Leave a Comment

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The UK has a commitment in law to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050, along with an aim to reduce 2035 emissions by 78% when compared to 1990 levels. With a backdrop of increasing electricity demand and a continuing requirement to balance to the energy grid, the housing sector has a large part to play in getting domestic energy right.

In both new build housing developments and in retrofit upgrades of existing housing, specifiers can make wise and future-proof choices that not only meet or exceed legislative requirements, but that also enable new ways for householders to use and store energy.

In this article, Andrew Ogden, Head of the Technical team at Kingspan Water & Energy, outlines how the UK’s demand for electricity is set to increase, and what that means for specifiers of home heating and hot water systems in new build and refurbished homes.

Increasing demand for electricity

The UK’s annual electricity demand currently stands at 320.7 TWh but is forecast to increase to between 550-680 TWh in 2050, depending how net zero is achieved.

This increased demand is expected to come from the transition to clean electricity as an alternative to fossil fuels such as oil and gas, specifically from:

  1. A move towards low-carbon electric-based heating systems instead of gas and oil
  2. A transition to electric cars and vans
  3. Electrification of heavy industry and hydrogen production

These first two points are particularly relevant to domestic housing specifiers.

The UK energy grid

Against the context of a significant uplift in demand for electricity, power generation will increasingly come from intermittent renewables such as wind and solar. In fact, renewables are forecast to account for up to 84% of Great Britain’s electricity generation by 2050, according to the National Grid’s Future Energy Scenarios (FES). This makes the UK energy grid more challenging to balance to the 50Hz standard frequency (with 1% tolerance) that’s required to keep it stable, a process that’s managed by the National Grid.

Why more challenging? Simply, solar and wind are less easy to control within a very short amount of time, meaning that additional factors – demand side response and increased energy storage – come into play to keep the grid balanced, at the right frequency, and running as it should.

The role of demand side response

One method to help keep the grid stable is through demand side response (DSR), which typically uses data and digital technology to help manage energy demand.

From a household perspective, we’ve seen this in action in England, Scotland and Wales over the last two winters through the Demand Flexibility Service, where energy companies give points or money off bills to householders who avoid using heavy energy-consuming appliances during pre-defined time periods. As an example, The Demand Flexibility Service half-hour period on 23rd January 2023 resulted in a 324 MW reduction in demand.

Another DSR mechanism is smart energy tariffs for electricity. These are flexible tariffs where the consumer price of electricity per kilowatt Hour (kWH) varies depending on demand across the grid. Consumers can see hour-by-hour pricing using their energy providers’ app and then plan when to use high energy-consuming appliances accordingly. At some times of day electricity can be free, or householders can even get paid to use it!

Another variant of a smart energy tariff is the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) tariff, where homes with solar panels or other renewables that can generate energy can export surplus energy to the grid to earn money. We’ll get into more detail about generating and storing energy shortly.

What does all this mean for specifiers? In all these scenarios, consumers can only benefit if they have a smart meter installed. In the case of new builds, specifiers should make sure they’re familiar with the BEIS publication, “Smart Meter Guidance for Domestic New Builds”. In retrofit applications, some households – for example blocks of apartments – may not currently have smart meters installed; meaning it’s something specifiers should factor into their refurbishment plans.

The role of increased energy storage

Energy storage is another mechanism that will be increasingly used to help keep the UK energy grid stable. The good news for householders and specifiers is that having products that can store energy can help with household bills, EPC and – potentially – SAP ratings.

Storing energy is a key component of National Grid’s Future Energy Scenarios (FES)5, which sums up the trends that will support achievement of the UK Government’s 2050 net zero target.

The FES forecasts that energy storage capacity by 2050 will increase more than ten-fold compared to today; from 3 GW (in 2022) to (up to) 47 GW.

Energy can be stored (and smart tariffs accessed) through various smart technology-enabled home heating and other products that housing specifiers can consider in new build developments or refurbishment projects. These include:

  • Smart hot water cylinders
  • Solar panels
  • Heat pumps
  • Heat batteries
  • Electric vehicles (in conjunction with a household charging port)

The results of a 2022 government consultation agreed that a future “smart mandate” will require heat pumps, electric storage heaters and heat batteries to have smart functionality, with an indicative implementation date of 2026-27.

In addition, regulation is now in place for all electric vehicle charge-points sold in England, Scotland and Wales to have smart functionality.

The Hot Water Association’s (HWA) Connected Homes report highlights a variety of smart home heating and hot water technologies already available. Examples include our very own Range Tribune MXi hot water cylinders that connect to a solar PV system. Powered by Mixergy technology, these cylinders use top-down heating to heat only the percentage of hot water that’s required, meaning householders only pay for what they need. Surplus solar PV energy can connect to the grid to benefit from smart tariffs and can also be stored for future use.

The HWA report also makes a case for the specification of smart technologies to be reflected in an improved SAP rating for new build properties.

We’d encourage specifiers to consider how smart technologies can be scoped into new build and refurbished housing now, given the raft of products on the market that can already deliver this technology.

The future is smart

Smart technology trends for home heating and hot water are also echoed in the Government’s Future Homes Standard (England only), whose latest consultation recently concluded.

Technology continues to evolve, but the future home could be heated by a heat pump and/or a solar PV solar installation all hooked up to a smart hot water cylinder, with smart energy tariffs and Smart Export Guarantee tariffs becoming the norm.

In summary, we’d encourage specifiers to consider smart connected home heating and hot water systems now, to be ready and ahead of an increasingly legislated route to net zero in the future.