EUROCELL AND TREMCO CPG: PIONEERING A NEW ERA IN AIRTIGHTNESS AND WEATHER RESISTANCE FOR MODERN BUILDING FACADES

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

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Addressing industry challenges
Eurocell, renowned for its high performing Modus and Logik window and door systems, partnered with illbruck (a brand of Tremco CPG UK) to tackle a crucial, underestimated installation challenge – the “integration junction.” This critical connection between window systems and building facades plays a vital role in a building’s thermal efficiency and long-term durability, especially under extreme weather conditions.

Together, they set out to develop a high-performance, resilient solution that would redefine industry standards for commercial buildings. By integrating Eurocell’s certified window systems with illbruck’s leading-edge sealing solutions, this collaboration promises to transform how commercial facades withstand the elements.

Collaborative problem-solving
Leveraging combined expertise, Eurocell and illbruck aimed to set a new benchmark for resilience and energy efficiency. By pairing Eurocell’s Modus and Logik systems with illbruck’s advanced i3 sealing solutions, they created a seamless, high-durability connection that not only meets but exceeds European standards for air permeability and water tightness.

This breakthrough solution anticipates the stricter requirements of future regulations, setting the stage for a new standard in commercial building façades.

Unmatched testing and validation
In August 2024, Eurocell and illbruck put their collaborative solution to the test in Tremco CPG Europe’s state-of-the-art research facility in Bavaria, Germany. By installing the systems within concrete frames, they replicated real-world conditions to validate durability and resilience.

Rigorous testing in line with EN 1026 (air permeability) and EN 1027 (watertightness) examined the critical window-to-wall junction as well as the full system, proving this solution’s capability to withstand the demands of real-world application.

Exceeding industry standards
The results demonstrate a solution that outperforms expectations, providing builders and developers with unmatched peace of mind – the results included;

  • Driving rain resistance: Withstood driving rain at 600 Pa, delivering robust protection against water ingress in extreme weather.
  • Airtightness: Achieved an impressive airtightness rating of <0.1 m³/(m·h·daPa²/³), meeting Class 4 under the UK’s BS EN 12207:2016 standard.
  • Thermal efficiency: Enhanced integration with Tremco’s sealing solutions minimised air infiltration, raising the bar for energy performance in commercial facades.

This solution not only addresses current needs but anticipates future demands, ensuring high resilience and superior energy performance.

A breakthrough full-system solution for diverse applications
The Eurocell and illbruck partnership has produced a comprehensive system that surpasses Building Regulations and Passivhaus standards for air permeability. This adaptable, high-performance solution is suited for various building types, from high-rise developments to commercial projects in harsh weather environments.

By addressing both airtightness and thermal bridging at the junction level, this integration supports sustainable construction goals, reducing energy costs and emissions across the UK.

Industry perspectives
Kelly Hibbert, Head of Commercial at Eurocell, shared her enthusiasm on the outcomes of the work with illbruck:

“Eurocell is committed to advancing a more sustainable construction industry by delivering window systems that meet the demands of a changing world. Working with illbruck has allowed us to create a truly integrated solution that brings lasting benefits to both the industry and building occupants. This partnership exemplifies how we can collectively raise standards and provide innovative products that balance performance with environmental responsibility.

“Through this collaboration, we are better equipped to support builders and developers with high-performance solutions that contribute to the efficiency and sustainability of their projects, from insulation to carbon reduction. It’s a project that speaks to our shared vision for a more resilient, energy-efficient future in the built environment.”

Similarly, Steve Wild – Technical consultant. at Tremco CPG added:

“The i3 system optimises both airtightness and thermal insulation, enhancing building resilience and energy efficiency. Partnering with Eurocell reflects our dedication to pioneering standards and providing builders with an integrated, top-tier solution for today’s construction challenges.

“Together, we’re delivering solutions that make it simpler for the industry to adopt practices that reduce energy use and operational costs. This collaboration stands out as an example of our commitment to sustainable growth, giving construction professionals access to advanced materials that are also practical and cost-effective.”

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

CORDEK EXPANDS ITS PORTFOLIO WITH NEW ENGINEERED WOOD CAPABILITIES

Building Products Index Ltd engineered wood, Formwork Solutions Leave a Comment

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Cordek, the leading bespoke formwork solutions provider, has expanded and diversified its offer, after acquiring the assets of Cambian Engineering Solutions. The strategic move also sees members from the engineered wood specialist join together with the Cordek team, bringing with them decades of experience in delivering unique and innovative wood structures.

Cordek is well known for its bespoke Expanded Polystyrene (EPS), model board and Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) Infrastructure and Superstructure formwork, as well as patterns and moulds for off-site construction. Now, with the addition of engineered wood to its portfolio, Cordek can deliver integrated and optimised solutions, utilising the best possible materials for every application. This will also provide customers with the benefits of a single source of supply for bespoke formwork, patterns and moulds as well as finished architectural features in engineered wood.

The acquisition will also complement and strengthen Cordek’s existing Computer Aided Design (CAD) and Computer Aided Manufacture (CAM) capabilities to efficiently deliver everything from simple components to complex assemblies, based on the requirements of the project. Early engagement with the Cordek design team will help to ensure the delivery of innovative architectural concepts in an efficient and cost-effective way.

Piers Chapman, Managing Director at Cambian Engineering Solutions, who has joined Cordek as Head of Design said: “I am delighted to be working with Cordek. Through our combined specialisms and capabilities, we are now ideally positioned in the market to take on more complex and large-scale projects.”

Stephen Hearn, Managing Director at Cordek added: “For over 40 years we have supported construction projects with a variety of innovative solutions. More recently, the demands for bespoke formwork and patterns and moulds have grown in scale and complexity. As such, bringing the technical knowledge and machinery from Cambian Engineering Solutions into Cordek expands and enhances our offer. We are delighted to welcome our new colleagues and evolve the business together.”

Furthermore, Cordek has always prioritised sustainability and the responsible use of materials. The move into engineered wood, facilitated by the acquisition, will allow greater scope to help customers to meet their sustainable goals through the use of the most appropriate and environmentally responsible solutions.

To find out more about Cordek and its services, visit www.cordek.com.

AKW Launches Water Saving Mixer Shower Models

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

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AKW, one of the UK’s leading providers of accessibility solutions, has extended its range of electric mixer showers to include flow limited versions of its popular Arka Cool Touch, Arka Thermostatic and Vettora showers. These WRAS approved additions to the range now give specifiers, installers and end users the ability to achieve impressive water savings, as well as to continue to promote safe, reliable showering.

These AKW lower flow mixer showers use between 40% to 69% less water – depending on the unit chosen – than those without a flow limiter. The Vettora, Arka Cool Touch and Arka Thermostatic water saving models have a maximum flow rate of 6 lpm, 6 lpm and 8 lpm respectively, enabling significant water and subsequent cost efficiencies to be achieved.

Stylish, safe, durable and easy-to-use

AKW’s three mixer showers have been designed to be stylish, durable, safe and easy-to-use, and all feature a pre-set maximum temperature of 38°. The Arka Cool Touch TMV2 has two paddle leavers for those with limited dexterity, which independently control temperature and flow, and thanks to innovative technology the valve also remains cool-to-the-touch, while maintaining the required water temperature. The Arka Thermostatic TMV3 is approved for use in commercial care environments and has rounded paddle levers to control the temperature and flow, while the Vettora Thermostatic TMV2 features easy-to-use peg levers for simple operation.

Arka Cool Touch Mixer

Arka Thermostatic Mixer

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stuart Reynolds, Head of Product and Marketing at AKW, comments: “We decided to extend our mixer shower range to include these flow limited models, as we have listened to our customers and know there is significant demand from them for products that can deliver water savings. All three flow limited showers are WRAS approved and are ideal for use by those looking for a durable showering solution that looks good but delivers in terms of its environmental credentials.”

To find out more about the AKW’s flow limited shower options visit www.akw-ltd.co.uk

For more information contact AKW on 01905 823298, Email: sales@akw-ltd.co.uk or visit www.akw-ltd.co.uk  

Discover the Beacon™ Modular Building

Building Products Index Ltd Modular Buildings Leave a Comment

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Glasdon UK Limited are experts in the design, manufacture, delivery, and installation of modular building systems. Customers agree that our Beacon Modular Building is their first choice when it comes to superior accommodation for security, transport, offices, and other specialised applications.

The Beacon is a high-quality preassembled building system and offers all the firmly anchored mainstay features that make our building & housing products our customers’ go-to building system for a range of diverse needs and requirements. Suitable for 24/7 working environments, such as gatehouses, receptions, toll booths, vehicle checkpoints, staff offices, security and control centres, and much more.

It comes in 17 size configurations and two standard colours, natural anodised aluminium and anthracite grey. Assembled from a combination of thermally broken aluminium alloy extrusions, composite floor and wall panels, fixed glazing, and proprietary aluminium framed window and door systems, the Beacon’s framework is further complemented by an aluminium fascia system that has been designed together with a SIP (Structurally Insulated Panel) roof system, to achieve improved thermal performance.

The Beacon also features an external steel finish that is weather-resistant and pre-finished. This helps insulate the composite wall panels. All windows and doors are double-glazed as standard, and an insulated composite floor panel on a preservative-treated timber plinth with a vapour barrier further adds to the Beacon’s thermally efficient design.

Its excellent levels of insulation allow for minimal heat loss in colder weather, and less heat gain during warmer seasons.

Our Beacon remains competitively priced and highly adaptable, offering up to 16 wall panel configurations including blank walls and glazed doors, as well as bespoke internal layouts thanks to a variety of interior options, from electrics all the way to sanitaryware. Further options, such as anti-sun solar control glass, air conditioning packages (HVAC), exterior lighting, canopies and non-standard finishes (available at an extra cost) add to the Beacon’s customisability.

For more information on our Beacon modular building, view our full listing.

The Honeywell Self-Test Revolution

Building Products Index Ltd Fire Protection Leave a Comment

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How is Honeywell revolutionising fire system testing and maintenance with innovative technology?

Building developers and building owners face many responsibilities and challenges when it comes to fire safety, particularly in multi-occupied settings. Advancements in fire safety technology are constantly evolving to meet these challenges and Honeywell Self-Test is the ground-breaking innovation that is revolutionising fire system maintenance.

In complex buildings and facilities, how can you prove that your fire system is compliant and that every single detector has been functionally tested, even in lift shafts, stairwells, and inaccessible rooms?

Traditional fire testing with a smoke pole and cup can be labor-intensive, while fire maintenance frequently disrupts daytime operations or incurs costly out-of-hours activities. Both scenarios are prone to inaccuracies due to access issues in complex buildings and the requirement to isolate the fire panel during testing, introducing additional risk.

Self-Test automates fire system maintenance and does not require physical access to locked rooms to perform functional fire tests. Self-Test eliminates the need for ladders, scaffolding, and scissor lifts to reach hard-to-access detectors, avoiding potential safety hazards, and reduces the need for out-of-hours testing. By automating functional fire testing, competent engineers can focus more time on thorough visual inspections to remain compliant.

How does Honeywell Self-Test work?

Self-Test detectors feature an internal module that generates smoke, allowing for functional testing of the optical sensor. A small fan expels the smoke through designated entry points, ensuring unobstructed detection in the event of a real fire. Additionally, the system includes an internal thermistor for safe heat sensor testing.

With the integration of an internal Bluetooth Low Energy Emitter (BLE), detectors seamlessly connect to a mobile app, enabling engineers to efficiently locate and inspect devices throughout a building while ensuring a discreet and non-invasive on-site presence.

With Self-Test, building owners can now prove that their fire detection systems undergo multiple tests a year, exceeding the prescribed once-a-year testing requirement by British Standard BS 5839-1.

The intuitive Honeywell Connected Life Safety Services (CLSS) app offers a wide range of testing options tailored to specific building needs, emphasising efficiency and speed. Capture essential events, test results, and visual inspection information – enabling engineers to identify necessary corrective actions more effectively.

Traditionally, fire testing documentation relied on printed results, leaving room for dispute. The CLSS app captures all Self-Test activities, including the manual testing and visual inspection commentary with accompanying photographs. CLSS also records daily events, creating a comprehensive digital logbook stored securely in the cloud. This digital logbook ensures no information is lost, providing invaluable historical records for fault investigation and false alarm analysis.

DID YOU KNOW?

Self-Test is capable of functionally testing any size fire system in 35 minutes or less

Paving the way for digital transformation

As the sector continues to evolve, the need for digital solutions and streamlined fire safety maintenance processes increases. Honeywell’s Self-Test technology represents a forward-looking approach to fire safety, offering a future-proof solution for maintaining compliance and ensuring life safety in commercial and institutional settings.

Find out more: https://buildings.honeywell.com/gb/en/brands/our-brands/gent/solutions/gent-self-test

Why do some cylinders have a reputation for quality and others not?

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

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On the surface two hot water cylinders may appear virtually identical – maybe a small variation in the sizes available, or minor difference in the standing loss that’s negligible when looked at annually. So what makes some cylinders stand out and be perceived as higher quality than their competitors?

The reality is there are several factors that contribute to the overall quality of a cylinder and these split out between physical attributes of the cylinder such as material specification and design dimensions, and process related factors such as, variations in welding techniques or treatments and checks the cylinders go through in production, as well as the stringency to which these controls are applied.

The fact is there can be several subtle variations in the processes used by different manufacturers, that collectively can contribute to a significant variation in the quality and reliability of the finished product.

Kingspan Cylinders, who have been manufacturing water heaters since 1904, understand that an unvented cylinder is far more than the sum of its parts.

It requires the perfect alignment of premium raw materials and components combined with precise manufacturing processes.

Here are just some key factors to consider that make Kingspan’s Albion and Range Tribune cylinders stand out that you should know before choosing the next cylinder for your project:

  • The type of and grade of steel used in the cylinder
  • If the cylinder joints have been welded using oxygen-purged techniques
  • If pickling has been used to clean the cylinder
  • How the cylinder has been quality tested
  • If the cylinder coil design enables optimum performance
  • Designs that make cylinders easier to install, i.e. internal expansion, pre-plumbed models, cylinders with build-in buffer tank etc.

High-quality raw materials alone can’t guarantee a durable cylinder. That’s why Kingspan implements comprehensive controls throughout the manufacturing process to ensure every cylinder meets the highest standards. This includes thorough incoming goods certification and inspection, regular calibration of machines and systems, and 100% testing of every cylinder during production.

If you’re considering a lower cost hot water cylinder for your next project, ask yourself: “Why is it cheaper?” Has it undergone all the essential quality assurance stages that Kingspan’s cylinders go through? Were these stages applied thoroughly? Are the raw materials of the same high specification? Is the manufacturer using the right combination of all these factors?

Kingspan goes to great lengths to combine high-quality raw materials with strict manufacturing processes and advanced product design for one main reason: they understand that responsible specifiers, installers and homeowners recognise the importance and value of quality products, which is especially true for home heating systems that are used daily and need to be durable for decades to come.

Watch Kingspan’s latest YouTube video here to see for yourself these key points in action!

If you need help and advice with choosing the right hot water cylinder for your next project, contact Kingspan Cylinders team at hotwater@kingspan.com.

Eurobrick launch new non-combustible brick slip cladding system

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

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Eurobrick is the UK’s longest-established brick slip cladding system company. With nearly 35 years of expertise in this specialist sector, the team at Eurobrick have been designing and developing products to meet the changing requirements of the construction industry for many years. With this in mind, Eurobrick are pleased to announce the launch of their latest cladding system, A-Clad.

New legislation

In recent years Building Regulations have been amended and new legislation passed which requires external finishes on taller buildings to be non-combustible. To meet these requirements, A-Clad has been developed as a complete non-combustible system.

A future proof solution

Eurobrick responded to the growing demand for a non-combustible brick slip rainscreen system by developing A-Clad which achieves Class A1 Euro Classification of Reaction to Fire and can be installed on buildings of any height. Eurobrick understand that the best way to future-proof a building is to ensure that it remains functional throughout its lifespan, and A-Clad can help to achieve this.

Quality and assurance

Extensive fire testing has been carried out on every component part of A-Clad with the complete system achieving Class A1. In addition to this, Eurobrick have put the same level of care and attention into developing every detail with a whole suite of mechanical tests on A-Clad including resistance to wind loads, hard and soft body impact, water penetration and bond strength. With safety being at the forefront of everyone’s minds, these tests have proven it is a robust system that can be specified with confidence. Eurobrick also expect to receive third-party certification from the British Board of Agrément (BBA) for A-Clad in the coming months.

Eurobrick has a range of brick slip cladding systems that include well-known solutions such as X-Clad and P-Clad. With the addition of A-Clad, they now offer systems that are suitable for all applications – internal, external, retrofit, new build, rainscreen, high rise, residential and commercial.

You can see more about A-Clad at www.eurobrick.co.uk including technical drawings and instructions for installation. If you would like to take a closer look or find out about A-Clad training  you can email info@eurobrick.co.uk or call Eurobrick’s technical team on 0117 971 7117 to discuss your requirements.

How to get a flawless wood finish

Building Products Index Ltd Filler 2 Comments

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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

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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

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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