Effortless & Eco-Friendly Colourwash: KEIM Unveils the Hassle-Free Solution to Contemporary Limewash Aesthetics

Building Products Index Ltd Paint Leave a Comment

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World leaders in sustainable paint solutions, KEIM proudly introduces Colourwash – a breakthrough innovation redefining the limewash aesthetic for contemporary interior design.

For over 140 years, KEIM has been at the forefront of mineral paint innovation, guided by a commitment to natural ingredients that promote both user well-being and environmental sustainability.

Today, KEIM UK sets a new standard with Colourwash – a pre-mixed interior paint formulated to capture the timeless appeal of traditional limewash while delivering skin-safe, and eco-conscious results.

Vanessa Fox, Commercial Manager at KEIM, commented, “The resurgence of limewash is evident in today’s dynamic design landscape. However, the use of traditional limewash presents potential skin and eye irritation, porous surfaces which are difficult to clean, and overall unpredictable application outcomes. In response, we’ve designed Colourwash as a revolutionary, non-caustic alternative that not only creates the coveted limewash aesthetic but also offers a durable finish suitable for bare, painted, or previously limewashed walls and ceilings.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In addition to the existing curated palette, Colourwash welcomes three new hues – TUSK, BALM and TALC- expanding the range of neutral tones crafted for timeless appeal. These shades provide interior designers and homeowners alike with the perfect canvas for creating truly organic interiors, all achievable in as little as a single coat.

Vanessa elaborated on the unique formulation of Colourwash, stating, “Our innovative blend combines non-flammable ingredients, UV-stable natural pigments and a potassium silicate binder for a chalk-free, long-lasting finish that outperforms conventional lime-based paints and washes.”

KEIM’s commitment to well-being is evident in the ultra-low volatile organic compounds (VOCs) present across their entire mineral paint range, ensuring enhanced indoor air quality, immediate occupiable spaces and a safe environment for people and pets alike.

Colourwash can be purchased online or ordered through most decorators’ merchants.

Free hand-painted swatches are available at www.keim.com

Please visit the Keim Mineral Paints website: www.keim.com or the web shop at https://www.keimpaintshop.co.uk/

For further information please contact:

Vanessa Fox
Commercial Manager
01952 231 250
sales@keimpaints.co.uk

 

EQUITONE is Cradle to Cradle Certified® Bronze

Building Products Index Ltd Facade Leave a Comment

EQUITONE is the first and only Cradle to Cradle Certified® fibre cement rainscreen facade material

Learn more about Cradle to Cradle Certified®

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The architectural community drives sustainable construction

How construction products are designed and selected today shapes the world we will inhabit tomorrow. That is why we joined the movement that is rethinking, redesigning, and transforming the system one sustainable facade at a time. Cradle to Cradle Certified® provides architects with fact-based, at-a-glance assurance that EQUITONE’s facade materials meet some of the world’s most rigorous sustainability standards.

What is Cradle to Cradle Certified®?

The Cradle to Cradle Certified® Product Standard is the leading multi-attribute standard used globally for designing and making products that enable a healthy, equitable, and sustainable future. It is widely regarded throughout the building industry as the preferred sustainability standard.​

 

How Cradle to Cradle Certified® is awarded

Certification is awarded based upon independent assessment of a product or material according to five critical categories of sustainability performance:

  • Material Health
  • Product Circularity
  • Clean Air & Carbon
  • Water & Soil Stewardship
  • Social Fairness

Sustainability is a journey not a destination. ​Bronze is just the beginning…

At EQUITONE, we’re leading the way in contributing to the sustainability goals of the construction industry.  Achieving Cradle to Cradle Certified® Bronze is an important milestone on our path to circularity, and our fibre cement materials are already earning performance ratings of Silver for Material Reutilization and Social Fairness. We are working hard to accelerate advancements in the carbon, water, and energy footprint of our operations.

 

 

Cradle to Cradle Certified® is a registered trademark of the Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute.​

Enhancing Comfort through Quiet Spaces with Soprema’s Acoustic Range

Building Products Index Ltd Acoustic Panels, Acoustics Leave a Comment

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In the dynamic and bustling world we live in, it is becoming increasingly more important to create quiet and comfortable spaces. Global leader in waterproofing and insulation solutions, SOPREMA, steps into the spotlight with its impressive acoustic range, aiming to revolutionise the way we experience our surroundings.

Soprema provides an extensive selection of acoustic insulation and soundproofing solutions suitable for ceilings, walls, floors and even pipes. Our commitment to quality and service ensures that your building is soundproofed in compliance with regulatory standards, providing you with peace of mind. Soprema’s Tecsound range now includes PURE-KUSTIK and FIBRO-KUSTIK Barcelona seamlessly merging functionality and aesthetics.

PURE-KUSTIK panels redefine acoustic excellence, boasting impressive absorption properties of up to class A (αw 0.90). Crafted from polyester fibres, with 60% recycled material content, PURE-KUSTIK is a sustainable choice, free from toxic substances and chemical binders. Available in a variety of colours or custom prints, PURE-KUSTIK boards can be installed either through mechanical fixing, glue application or for an even faster installation, a self-adhesive option is also offered. Read more about this incredible product here.

Meanwhile, FIBRO-KUSTIK Barcelona sets a new standard in both performance and durability. With acoustic absorption reaching class A (αw 0.95), these boards are built to withstand the rigors of residential and non-residential applications. Available in an array of sizes, colours, and varieties such as SOLO, DUO, and TRIO, they offer flexibility and style without compromising efficiency. Find more information on FIBROKUSTIK here.

 

 

Our commitment to excellence goes beyond product innovation. We also offer comprehensive technical support and are on hand to guide you through the process from specification to supply. Our online reverberation calculator, RT 60, ensures precise calculation and design tailored to your project’s unique requirements.

These solutions are making waves in projects across the UK, gaining traction in the market and building interest. For further details, reach out to our technical experts at  technical@soprema.co.uk or visit our website.

 

Introducing The Albany Woodcare Collection

Building Products Index Ltd Wood stain Leave a Comment

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Bringing you an even bigger range of high-quality decorating products, Albany is thrilled to announce that we have added a brand new woodcare range to our collection, which is exclusively available at Brewers Decorator Centres. Three new finishes have been developed to produce ultimate woodcare protection on interior and exterior timber, perfect for springtime projects.

Albany is a trusted decorating brand used by professionals and DIYers alike. Each finish is made to a high-quality trade recipe, rich in pigment and high-quality ingredients for superior colour depth and retention.

Discover the three new finishes:

  1. Albany Original

Albany Original is a translucent all-purpose wood stain that can be used on interior and exterior timber for long lasting protection in a matt finish.

  1. Albany Advanced

Albany Advanced is a translucent, durable wood stain that can be used on interior and exterior timber, offering superior UV protection in a satin finish.

Albany Original and Albany Advanced can be used as part of a system, to provide ultimate weather resistance and durability. Both finishes are available in 46 colours, which can be tinted in store and taken home the very same day. The colours have been created to highlight the beauty of the natural grain of wood and instantly transform timber.

  1. Albany Masterdec

Albany Masterdec is an opaque wood stain that can be used on exterior timber, providing a self-priming, fast-drying and flexible finish. Available in 4 ready mixed colours, RAL, NCS and BS4800 colours that will completely obliterate the original colour of the wood. The finish is also available in 112 exclusive colours from the Albany Design Collection, completely transforming exterior wood and instantly updating outside spaces

 

Albany paint and woodcare is exclusively available online at brewers.co.uk or in-store at Brewers Decorator Centres in a vast range of colours!

 

Marley Enhances Renewable Energy Solutions

Building Products Index Ltd PV systems, Solar Leave a Comment

MARLEY EXTENDS RENEWABLE TECHNOLOGY OFFERING WITH ADDITION OF BATTERY AND INVERTER SOLUTIONS

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As building specifiers look to enhance the saleability and energy efficiency performance of new homes, Marley has further extended its renewable technology package with the launch of new solar inverter and battery storage solutions.

 

Now available alongside the company’s established integrated solar PV full roof system, the addition of the ES G2 hybrid inverter combined with the new Lynx Home U Series battery solutions, can be complemented by a Clearline EV Charging point  to provide a single source solution to deliver a comprehensive roofing and renewable technology package that offers power from the roof, through the home, to the road for home buyers.

 

Combined solution

The introduction of the low voltage lithium battery as an energy storage option, is compatible with the new ES G2 Hybrid inverter – a compact and highly efficient inverter designed to supplement rooftop solar PV systems, such as Marley SolarTile®, allowing end users to optimise and store energy from a sustainable source via the roof. The ES G2 Hybrid inverter provides an AC output range from 3.6 to 6.0 kWh, whilst the battery offers a 5.4 to 32.4kWh wide capacity range.

 

Both the battery and inverter come with IP65 protection for safe outdoor installation if required. Installation is also streamlined, thanks to the pre-wired inverter which saves time on site.

 

Ideal for residential applications, the battery and hybrid inverter combination can support homebuyers who are looking for properties which can reduce their reliance on the grid through the use of renewable technologies.

Welsh Slate tops the heights, and the menu, at The Peninsula London

Building Products Index Ltd Cladding, Rainscreen Cladding, Worktops Leave a Comment

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London’s latest luxury hotel, and the Hong Kong and Shanghai Hotels’ first in the UK, has opened to much acclaim, and with Welsh Slate at its very heart.

With architecture conceived by Hopkins Architects to gracefully harmonise with the heritage buildings of Belgravia, The Peninsula London also embodies a sleek, spacious aesthetic that floods its exquisite Peter Marino-designed interiors with natural light.

The world-class 190-room hotel, along with 25 opulent luxury residences, centres around an expansive entrance courtyard off Grosvenor Place, landscaped in the style of a classic English garden with hand-crafted granite paving, cascading ivy, wisteria vines and two 120-year-old Japanese maple trees.

It is here that Welsh Slate’s own heritage probably makes its most obvious mark, as the courtyard columns are faced with Cwt-y-Bugail cladding. This cladding also features as individual slabs measuring up to 2.2m long x 900mm high x 40mm thick on the facades of the two storeys of penthouse apartments which top the multiple storeys of Portland stone below. Welsh Slate also tops the menu in the upper-level restaurant terraces where Cwt-y-Bugail features on the waiters’ stations.

Cwt-y-Bugail Honed slate is a premium Welsh slate known for its natural beauty and durability. Its rich, dark grey colour, and smooth, Honed finish complements the timeless elegance of The Peninsula London perfectly.

The 40mm-thick slate used for the external cladding provides a stylish but robust and weather-resistant layer of protection, while the slate used for the internal cladding on the courtyard columns adds a touch of sophistication and refinement.

Hopkins Architects said: “Materials for this prestigious project were carefully selected, with the project team visiting quarries across the UK to select the very best.  Welsh slate, used to form the piers on the top two storeys, was selected from a quarry near Anglesey, with individual slabs measuring up to 1.4m x 900mm high x 40mm thick.”

The 20mm-thick slate used for the waiter stations in the restaurant terraces is both durable and easy to clean, making it ideal for a high-traffic area.

Matthew Allen, production director at Tekne, who installed the waiters’ stations, said: “The Welsh Slate counter tops are a quality product, were very easy to install, and look absolutely fabulous. Being produced from a natural, hardwearing material will make them particularly low maintenance and resilient to the London atmosphere/environment.”

In addition to its aesthetic appeal, Cwt-y-Bugail Honed slate offers many practical benefits, being a low-maintenance material that is easy to clean and maintain. It is also resistant to fire, water and staining.

Hopkins Architects’ brief for The Peninsula London, was to create a hotel and residences of exceptional quality. Looking across three Royal Parks as well as the grounds of nearby Buckingham Palace, The Peninsula London faces Wellington Arch and surrounding public space.

The unique context and history of this site, formerly a 1960s office block, have been carefully explored and are reflected in the architectural design, detailing and a materials palette which is limited to the highest quality materials typical to the area.

Wavin’s Guide to Sustainable Plumbing

Building Products Index Ltd Pipes, Plastic piping Leave a Comment

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An annual investigation into consumers attitudes towards sustainability and sustainable behaviours shows that they are becoming more environmentally conscious. In fact, when compared to data collected in 2022, this year’s results showed more consumers have been adopting a sustainable lifestyle by improving their habits at home.

As well as uncovering what consumers do and what they care about, the study also found, from a business perspective, that trust in brands improves when there’s evidence a company takes sustainability seriously and adopts green principles.

With this in mind, we’ve created this guide to highlight some of the main benefits you’ll experience by implementing a greener approach within your business. We’ll look closely at several areas most relevant to you including the materials you work with, supporting homeowners to improve their property’s energy efficiency and exploring changes you could make to your general business operations to improve your green credentials.

Subscribe to Wavin Plumbedin monthly emails here to receive the guide.

 

 

Art Deco building in Malta fitted with new Clement steel windows

Building Products Index Ltd Steel, Windows Leave a Comment

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Haslemere-based Clement Windows Group has manufactured over 100 new steel-framed windows for The Brewhouse in Malta.

The Brewhouse, formerly Farsons Brewery, is one of the finest examples of a reinforced concrete Art Deco building on the island of Malta.  Founded and designed by Lewis V Farrugia and William Binnie, the building is an icon of the industrialisation of post-war Malta.  Opened in June 1950, today it is Grade II listed.

The site of The Brewhouse and Trident Park has recently undergone an €86 million redevelopment with the area boldly reimagined by world-renowned, London-based ritchie*studio.  Covering over 7,000 sq m of industrial space, the renovated brewery offers a unique mix of office, retail, food and beverage, retail, visitor experience and events spaces arranged over seven floors.

It was vital in a building of such historic and architectural significance that the new windows replicated the look of the originals, but also that they met stringent requirements for thermal efficiency, as the building was designed to strict environmental codes.  The new steel windows from the Clement EB24 range met the brief.  Painted RAL 9016 (Traffic White), with genuine T bars and multi point locking, the windows are manufactured from hot rolled steel window profiles which are produced from 98% recycled steel source material.

The Brewhouse and Trident Park is one of the most important regeneration projects in Maltese history and its inauguration ceremony was attended by over 400 people including the Prime Minister of Malta, Robert Abela.

Ian Ritchie, Director of ritchie*studio, commented:

“Clement Windows provided the perfect steel window profile and workmanship solution to help restore this beautiful and iconic Maltese industrial Art Deco building.”

Tel: 01428 643393 Email: info@clementwg.co.uk    Web: clementwindows.co.uk

Access 360 accelerates sustainability commitments with SBTi validation

Building Products Index Ltd access solutions Leave a Comment

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Access solutions manufacturer, Access 360, is continuing to progress with its sustainability commitments following the approval of its parent company, Tyman’s, near-term science-based reduction targets (SBTs) by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).

The SBTi has validated the Group’s targets to reduce absolute scope 1 and scope 2 Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions by 46.2% by 2030 from a 2019 base year and reduce absolute scope 3 GHG emissions from purchased goods and services by 27.5% within the same timeframe.

The approval follows two years of data gathering and modelling by the Group, in addition to deploying measures to reduce its carbon footprint.

The SBTi’s approval is a significant achievement for Tyman’s 2030 Sustainability Roadmap, with one of the early priorities for the Group to understand its carbon footprint across its entire value chain and commit to targets required by the latest climate science by focusing on the most material sources of emissions.

As the Group’s consumption of electricity accounts for 70% of its scope 1 and scope 2 emissions, the initial focus has been centred upon purchasing greener energy and installing solar technologies such as those at Access 360’s new headquarters in the West Midlands, whilst also reducing consumption at source.

To reduce scope 3 carbon emissions, the Group is continuing to focus on updating product designs and selecting lower carbon materials, with Access 360 recently making a significant investment in its engineering department to support these objectives.

Emma Holly, General Manager for Access 360 said: “Tyman’s 2030 Sustainability Roadmap aims to transform our operations, culture and the solutions we offer our customers, bringing sustainability to the core of everything that we do.

“The validation of the Group’s near-term SBTs by the SBTi is a significant step forward on our journey and highlights that not only are we committed to further reducing our energy, water and waste, in addition to our carbon emissions – we are also ensuring this is achieved in line with best practice.

“Going forward, we will continue to work towards achieving our goals by working effectively in partnership with our suppliers and customers to meet the requirements of the climate science by the end of 2030.”

For further information on Access 360’s product offering, visit www.access-360.co.uk.

Raising The Roof: First Ever Blue Green Roof in Dublin Constructed with ACO’s RoofBloxx System

Building Products Index Ltd Building Drainage, Drainage Leave a Comment

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With new planning rules to abide by in Dublin, the developers of a commercial three-story residential apartment building had to demonstrate that its scheme would have a blue green roof to obtain planning permission. ACO worked together with Beton Construction Services to design and specify an innovative blue green system that would manage stormwater runoff, improve resilience, and be the first of its kind in the city.

 

Creating a waterproof roof

A key part of the consultation was ACO’s assessment of the hydraulic requirements, which was based on 1 in 100-year time series rainfall, as well as accounting for a 40% uplift in climate change. Following the assessment, ACO specified its RoofBloxx attenuation system to cover a catchment area of 131.8m2, installed on an inverted blue roof.

Introducing the ACO solution to an inverted roof separated the competing drainage requirements. By engineering an elevated shallow structural attenuation system that operates independently of the flat roof drainage system, it allowed the roof to be engineered to known standards and best practice, without compromising the ability of the roof to drain quickly in extreme circumstances.

Dan O’Connor, Business Development Manager at Beton, led the project and said: “When we were approached about this job, we knew we’d need guidance from blue roof specialists. We turned to ACO because we know they not only have innovative products like the RoofBloxx system, but they have the knowledge, experience and assisting tools to make sure that the job runs smoothly. With ACO’s support, the project was swiftly granted planning approval, and we and the developers have peace of mind that the roof is protected for years to come.”

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