Glass Entrance Lobby Creates Automatic Entrance to Oxford Chapel (March 2025)

Building Products Index Ltd Automated systems, Automatic door, Automatic door system Leave a Comment

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Working with commercial glazing specialists IQ Projects, TORMAX has delivered discrete and reliable automation to a new draught lobby installed inside the main entrance to the 13th century chapel at Merton College, Oxford.

Successfully reducing heat loss from the building whilst improving the internal ambient temperature, the elegant glass lobby features two sets of automatic sliding doors. Working in tandem, the doors are powered by in-house designed TORMAX iMotion 2202.A operators.

Helping maintain the heritage aesthetics, the iMotion 2202.A has an installation height of just 100mm which, along with a slender guide track, makes it suitably unobtrusive. Reliable AC motor technology combines with a state-of-the-art microprocessor control system to deliver near-silent movement quality, for an appropriate entrance into this ancient place of worship.

An exquisite example of Gothic architecture, Merton College Chapel has stood as a place of worship at the heart of this ancient College, for over 750 years. Today the Chapel is home to a lively and diverse Christian community with a busy programme of daily services and concerts.

With sustainability a targeted priority throughout the College, it was recognised that the existing entrance doors were a source of avoidable heat-loss. Seeking a modern solution that would create a welcoming atmosphere without compromising the building’s historic charm, IQ Projects was contracted to install a thoughtfully designed glass lobby.

“We have worked with IQ Projects on a number of different installations,” comments Simon Roberts, MD for TORMAX. “This glass lobby is a truly elegant solution with the automatic sliding doors offering seamless and unhindered access for everyone.”

Reliability is a priority for any automatic entrance and the Chapel doors should only require minimal maintenance thanks to the advanced designed of the iMotion operator. Featuring a motor that has none of the working parts that easily wear out, such as gears and brushes, the iMotion life expectancy is second to none.

TORMAX UK provides high-quality automatic door solutions, including sliding, swing, and revolving doors, with expert installation, maintenance, and repair services for commercial applications.

With a rich heritage rooted in British manufacturing, Mueller Europe leads the way in the copper tubing industry

Building Products Index Ltd Copper Tubes, Pipes Leave a Comment

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With a rich heritage rooted in British manufacturing, Mueller Europe, a highly reputable manufacturer of the iconic Wednesbury Copper Tube and Yorkshire Copper Tube brands, is renowned for their high-quality products. Established over a century ago, with a commitment to quality and innovation, they have maintained their position at the forefront of the industry.

Quality is at the heart of Mueller Europe’s operations. The company adheres to stringent quality control measures to ensure its products meet and exceed industry standards. Every copper tube produced by Mueller Europe is manufactured with precision, ensuring reliability and durability in every application, all proudly made in Britain.

Whether you’re a plumbing professional, HVAC specialist, work in a medical institution or a homeowner considering a renovation, Mueller Europe produces a wide array of copper tubes, catering to diverse needs—from plumbing and heating to refrigeration and industrial applications. This expansive product range ensures a perfect fit for every project, whether residential or commercial.

Product Applications include:

  • Plumbing Tubes: Ideal for both hot and cold-water installations ensuring efficient flow in buildings
  • HVAC Tubes: Engineered to meet the stringent requirements of modern HVAC systems
  • Gas Tubes: Specifically designed for gas supply systems, these tubes ensure safe and reliable performance
  • Medical Gas Tubes: Used in healthcare facilities, these tubes meet stringent standards for medical applications
  • Industrial Tubes: Designed for specialized industrial applications requiring high performance and reliability

Types of Copper Tubes:

  • Plain Copper Tubes: These are versatile and widely used for general plumbing and heating applications. Their clean and polished surface makes them ideal for visible installations
  • Plastic Coated Copper Tubes: These tubes come with an additional protective layer of plastic coating. This coating provides extra protection against external elements, making them suitable for outdoor or exposed environments
  • Chrome Plated Copper Tubes: These are perfect for applications where aesthetics is important, such as in bathrooms, as the chrome finish offers a sleek and modern look
  • Microbore Tubes: These smaller diameter tubes are excellent for central heating systems, providing efficiency and ease of installation

Quality and Standards

Both Wednesbury and Yorkshire Copper Tube take pride in adhering to the highest quality standards. Their products comply with international regulations, including BS EN 1057, ensuring that they meet the demands of modern installations. Their tubes undergo rigorous testing to ensure they can withstand various conditions and pressures.

Why Choose Copper Wednesbury and Yorkshire Copper Tubes?

  • Durability: Copper tubes can last for decades, ensuring a longer lifespan for plumbing systems, unlike other materials. This longevity makes copper a cost-effective choice, as it reduces the need for frequent replacements and repairs
  • Ease of Installation: Copper pipes are relatively easy to install. Their malleability allows for easy bending and fitting, reducing the need for additional fittings and lowering installation costs
  • Corrosion Resistance: Unlike some metals, copper does not rust, even when in contact with water, making it an ideal choice for plumbing applications. This resistance ensures that the water supply remains uncontaminated and safe for consumption
  • Safety: Copper’s antimicrobial properties make it a safe choice for water and gas systems
  • Recyclability: Copper is 100% recyclable, making it an environmentally friendly option
  • Quality Assurance: Each copper tube undergoes rigorous quality checks to ensure compliance with industry standards
  • Versatility: Copper tubes are suitable for a wide range of applications, from residential plumbing to advanced HVAC systems to large-scale industrial projects
  • Resistance to Bacteria: Copper has natural antimicrobial properties, making it an excellent choice for water supply systems. It helps reduce the risk of contamination, ensuring cleaner and safer water

Conclusion

Whether you are involved in a large-scale industrial project or a simple home renovation, Wednesbury and Yorkshire Copper tube brands offer reliable, efficient, and sustainable solutions.

Mueller Europe, through its Wednesbury and Yorkshire Copper Tube brands, continues to lead the way in the copper tubing industry. Its diverse range of high-quality products, combined with the inherent advantages of copper, makes it a preferred choice for professionals and consumers alike. Whether for traditional plumbing, modern heating solutions, or aesthetically pleasing finishes, Mueller Europe’s copper tubes offer unmatched performance and reliability. By choosing either Wednesbury or Yorkshire, you are investing in a product that ensures performance and peace of mind for years to come.

For further information:

Tel: +44 (0) 1902 499700

website: www.muellereurope.com

How a Roof Lantern Brought Light and Life to a Historic Home Extension

Building Products Index Ltd Rooflights Leave a Comment

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When a growing family needed more space—and more light—they turned to Rooflights & Skylights for expert advice. The result? A stunning 6-panel roof lantern that transformed a deep extension into a bright, welcoming living space.

Project: Set in the heart of a quiet Northamptonshire village, this charming semi-detached home has a unique past. Originally built in 1820 as a schoolhouse, the property carries a rich sense of character and history. When Jason and his partner purchased it in 2018, they saw the potential to create something really special. With its distinctive L-shaped footprint and three-bedroom layout, the home offered both space and charm – but as their family plans grew, so did their need for more room. That’s when the idea for a modern extension began to take shape.

Brief: With their first child on the way, Jason and his partner knew they needed more space to grow as a family. Their vision was to add a single-storey extension to the home, creating a larger, more comfortable living area where they could relax and spend time together. The extension would sit off the back of the property with a flat roof design – ideal for blending with the existing structure. However, because the new space was quite deep, they quickly realised that relying on standard vertical windows might not bring in enough natural light, especially towards the middle of the room. That’s when they started exploring rooflight options to brighten up the space.

Solution: To bring natural light into the new extension and create a standout architectural feature, Jason reached out to Scott Couldrey at Rooflights & Skylights for advice on the best product for the space. Given the depth of the extension and the property’s traditional character, the rooflight wouldn’t just serve a functional role – it would become a visible feature from all areas of the garden, so style was just as important as performance.

Working closely with his builder, Jason specified the need for a rooflight to fit an overall kerb of  3000mm x 2000mm. After reviewing options that balanced style, performance, availability, and budget, Scott recommended a 6-panel roof lantern from Brett Martin as the ideal solution.

The roof lantern is built with a sleek aluminium frame, finished in RAL 9010 White internally and RAL 7016 Anthracite Grey externally – ensuring a clean look inside while blending beautifully with the exterior of the home. It features six self-cleaning, double-glazed panels with a blue tint, helping to soften natural light and reduce glare in the living space.

While Brett Martin also offers a 4-panel version in the same size, the 6-panel design was chosen for two key reasons: the smaller glass panels made handling and installation easier for the builder, and the multi-panel layout gave the lantern a more ornate, decorative appearance – enhancing its visual impact from both inside and out.

Ease of delivery was also a consideration. The property sits at the end of a narrow village lane that had previously caused issues for larger commercial vehicles. Taking this into account, Scott arranged for the lantern to be delivered on a suitably sized truck, ensuring smooth access and a stress-free delivery to site.

Conclusion

“Buying a rooflight or lantern is not an everyday purchase, and it’s certainly not one you can afford to get wrong,” said Jason. “However, I felt supported at every step. Scott’s detailed questioning about the project and what I was aiming to achieve reassured me about purchasing a roof lantern from Rooflights & Skylights. This became even more clear when issues about access to the property were highlighted and the lengths he went to ensure the chosen roof lantern was shipped on a suitable vehicle. I can’t recommend Rooflights & Skylights highly enough.”

For Jason and his family, the roof lantern hasn’t just transformed the extension with natural light – it’s added a stylish architectural focal point to the home, delivered with care, expertise, and a truly personal approach.

Click for more info:  https://www.rooflights-skylights.co.uk/products/brett-martin-classic-6-panel-roof-lantern

ACO Bespoke Access Covers designed to the shape and load class you need.

Building Products Index Ltd access covers Leave a Comment

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As a planner or architect, you are always looking for reliable partners and answers to your very specific problems. For every challenge there is always a solution.

ACO can provide bespoke Access Covers for your project. These can be sized as you need with multiple hatches. We can manufacture these in either aluminium, hot dipped galvanised steel or stainless-steel grade 304 as standard. Covers can also be manufactured in stainless steel grade 316 if required.

ACO Bespoke covers can be designed to different load classes for both pedestrian areas and for heavy traffic areas.

Our previous projects have included multipart covers for airport installations, floor access doors to underground services or bespoke shaped landscape covers for public realm applications.

Our bespoke covers are normally available in around 10 working days.

To learn more about our bespoke covers please visit www.aco.co.uk/products/bespoke-access-covers

Talk to us about your needs today call 01462 810421 or email: acsales@aco.co.uk 

We also have an extensive range of standard access covers that are both recessed and solid covers.

NEW CLADDING CPD FROM MARLEY

Building Products Index Ltd Cladding, Rainscreen Cladding Leave a Comment

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Marley has launched a new RIBA-accredited CPD for its Weatherboard external cladding range titled – ‘Modern Design Considerations for Rainscreen Cladding’.

Available in person, or online, the CPD has been designed to educate specifiers considering modern rainscreen cladding systems. The hour-long CPD seminar also supports specifiers and architects looking to gain knowledge on the various applications of rainscreen systems and its architectural uses.

Suitable for specification on residential and commercial buildings, today’s rainscreen cladding applications are creating a blend of contemporary façades and traditional aesthetics. Delivering greater design flexibility, increased weather and moisture protection, and enhanced thermal performance for sustainable building design.

Marley’s new CPD covers all aspects of its Weatherboard fibre cement cladding solution – ranging from the origins and current variants of the system, through to technical standards and guidance for system installation and detailing.

Renowned for its durability, low maintenance, fire resistance and sustainable properties, a fibre cement external cladding system, such as Marley’s Weatherboard, is a great option for specifiers looking to deliver attractive and high performing buildings.

Kevin O’Neill, National Sales Manager – Weatherboard for Marley, comments: “The creation of our new CPD, covering all aspects of rainscreen cladding, provides specifiers and architects with the opportunity to enhance their knowledge of a product solution proving to be increasingly popular in the market.

“The RIBA-accredited CPD outlines the design considerations, performance credentials and technical angles, which are all essential to establish a full understanding of fibre cement rainscreen cladding and the many benefits it delivers.”

For further details on the newly launched Marley CPD ‘Modern Design Considerations for Rainscreen Cladding’, please visit Marley’s website.

Value Engineering in Structural Waterproofing

Building Products Index Ltd Waterproof Membranes, waterproofing Leave a Comment

View the Delta Membranes entry on BPindex

View the Delta Membranes technical drawings

View the Delta Membranes CPD seminars

View the Delta Membranes case studies

Value engineering is a method to deliver essential project functions at the lowest cost. It substitutes materials and methods with cheaper alternatives without losing functionality. Focused on functions rather than physical attributes, value engineering is also known as value analysis.

Value engineering reviews products in the design phase to cut costs and boost functionality, enhancing product value. It aims to produce items cost-effectively without compromising their purpose. The concept of Value Engineering began at General Electric Co. during World War II.  During the war, there were shortages of skilled labour, raw materials, and component parts. Lawrence Miles and Harry Erlicher at G.E. sought suitable substitutes.

Aligning Value Engineering with Structural Waterproofing

Messrs Miles Erlicher defined product value as the ratio of function to cost. Function is the work an item is designed to perform, and cost covers its life cycle expenses. Increasing product value involves enhancing function or reducing cost. Value engineering includes analysing costs related to production, design, maintenance, and replacement.

Product value =              Function

                                         __________

                                                 Cost

Waterproofing requires a tailored design approach, as there is no one-size-fits-all solution.  So, to achieve value engineering in structural waterproofing, consideration should be given to product, Product performance characteristics, installation, future maintenance and worst-case scenario, refitting flawed or failed systems.

Waterproofing is vital for maintaining the integrity and value of a structure. Poor workmanship, wrong materials, lack of preparation, or missed details during installation can cause failed waterproofing systems, leading to water damage and expensive repairs.  Addressing waterproofing issues early ensures a structure stays in great condition. Although waterproofing costs only 2-5% of a building’s total expense, to rectify failed or flawed waterproofing, can account to nearly 80% of all construction-related problems.

Effective structural waterproofing relies on precise product selection and proper installation methods from the start.

Waterproofing Design

Waterproofing design is essential in construction, employing various methods and materials to prevent water ingress. Effective waterproofing design enhances building longevity and safeguards structures against water damage.

Three key stages to successful waterproofing: design, specification, and installation.

The waterproofing designer will assess “value” and incorporate this into their design.  Not all waterproofing products/materials are equal.  Different products offer varied qualities and features, so it’s important to choose the right one for the project.

A Waterproofing Design Specialist must know various waterproofing systems and BS 8102:2022. They should understand water sources, their interaction with structures, and soil flow. Structural principles and geotechnical knowledge are essential for working with engineers and interpreting soil reports.

Delta Technical Team

Delta’s Technical Team can help you find value engineering solutions for your waterproofing project.  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. Contact us today to optimise your project’s performance and cost efficiency.    

Tel: 01992 523 523 or drop us an email at info@deltamembranes.com.

Albany Colour Crush: Cherry Reds from Brewers

Building Products Index Ltd Paint Leave a Comment

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Red has seen a rise in popularity in recent years thanks to its versatility and ability to evoke powerful emotion and is a colour that is here to stay in the world of interiors!

2025 has seen a rise in popularity for one shade of red in particular – cherry! Here we show you how to get the look with Albany paints.

The Colour Psychology of Red:

Red has the longest visual wavelength of any colour, perfect for making a real impact within a space. It is seen as the colour of love, energy and indulgence, perfect for busier spaces such as living rooms and kitchens. Cherry reds are rich, vibrant shades of red with a broad range of pink and violet undertones, perfect for providing a playful twist in your scheme.

The Unexpected Red Theory:

Last year, the ‘Unexpected Red Theory’ went viral, where people took to social media to share their surprise for red seemingly working with everything! They argued that red works with any colour palette…some were even calling for red to become the new neutral! This isn’t news to the world of design, as interior designers and stylists have been using red as a part of schemes for decades.

How To Use Red in Your Space:

Red can be used in a modern setting as well as more traditional spaces, either as the dominant colour or as an accent colour. To create a balanced scheme, combine with cool colours for a complementary look. Pairing with blues and greens can create a fun and energising space!

Reds also work beautifully with a neutral palette, so for clients that are hesitant with colour, start small, adding a sophisticated red to the space can really elevate the whole look. A pop of red in the colour scheme can easily be added by painting furniture or highlighting an architectural detail.

Alternatively, for a bold approach, colour drenching the whole space with a chosen shade or double drenching with a few variations of red would make a dramatic impact.

Explore Albany’s Cherry Colour Palettes:

From deep and dramatic to light and whimsical, Albany’s cherry tones offer endless possibilities.

A darker, moodier take on the Cherry trend:

Kingsmead
Bark
Cheltenham

A light and bright Cherry palette:

Romantic Rain
Cherry

To add a whimsical touch, why not add blue?

Powder Blue

Colonial

Be mindful of the light available in the room and see which red works best in your space. Albany Colour Samplers are available to help find the perfect colour.

Shop the full Albany range online at brewers.co.uk or pop into your local Brewers Decorator Centre today!

Stannah Lifts deliver multi-lift project for Welcome Break’s 60th Service Station

Building Products Index Ltd Escalator, Lift Leave a Comment

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Welcome Break opened its 60th service station at Junction 33 on the M1 in January, featuring a Stannah escalator, passenger lift and goods lift.

Spanning 32,000 square feet, located between Sheffield and Rotherham, the services offer state-of-the-art facilities, including dining options from KFC, Burger King and Starbucks as well as 28 EV charging stations and dedicated HGV amenities.

Designed to resemble a traditional Yorkshire village, the two-storey service station also includes retail, gaming, restrooms, seating, a children’s play area and remote workspaces. It marks Welcome Break’s first new motorway service in two decades.

Work

Stannah Lifts collaborated with principal contractors, HML Construction, architects Whittam Cox and SVM Associates on this £55 million project to create a cohesive lift solution and modern design that delivers an inclusive and convenient experience for visitors.

Back of house, Stannah installed a Goodsmaster lift to facilitate the safe and efficient transportation of goods between floors while improving workflow and minimising manual handling risks.

For front-of-house, a Stannah A2C escalator and a 13-person passenger lift were selected to optimise visitor traffic flow, improve accessibility and enhance overall experience.

Challenges

To optimise operations and resources, Stannah collaborated with teams across its divisions to ensure successful execution. Its Microlifts division installed the Goodsmaster lift, while the Passenger Lifts Division handled the passenger lift installation and the Major Projects Division oversaw the escalator.

This coordinated effort and meticulous planning ensured a seamless and efficient installation process, enhancing overall project delivery. As one of the few lift companies offering a full range of lift products along with comprehensive servicing, Stannah stands out as an ideal multi-project lift solution, streamlining customer communication, project specification and overall project management.

Solution

Passenger lift

To improve accessibility for wheelchair users and those less mobile, Stannah installed a 13-person stainless steel MRL (Motor Room Less) traction passenger lift from the Maxilift range, with a 1,000kg weight capacity.

Operating at 1.0 metres per second across two floors, the lift features efficient VVVF drives for a smooth, quiet and energy-efficient ride. Integrated remote monitoring ensures reliable operation, while LED lighting and standby shutdown contribute to an A-rating in BREEAM.

The lift’s design includes adjacent-opening, two-panel entrances, stainless steel walls and premium vinyl stone black concrete floor, providing a sleek and spacious feel. Equipped with intelligent controls, GSM connectivity and compliant with EN81-73 safety standards, it offers both safety and ease of maintenance, providing a future-proofed and high-performance solution for the service station.

Escalator

With the end user in mind, Stannah proposed its A2C escalator solution featuring a 1000m wide step to ensure maximum pedestrian flow during peak hours. Operating at 0.5 metres per second, a 30-degree angle offers a gradual transition from flat to inclined, providing a smoother and more comfortable ride.

The A2C-30 escalator is equipped with a toughened glass balustrade for enhanced durability, a hot-dip galvanised truss for improved protection in damp environments and an auxiliary brake for an added layer of safety.

Designed with efficiency and sustainability in mind, the escalator features speed monitoring that slows down when not in use. This is ideal for locations with varying traffic flow, helping to reduce operating costs and extend the product’s lifespan.

It also delivers a quiet and efficient ride with high efficiency and low maintenance, thanks to its low-vibration, low-noise motor and VVVF drive.

Goods Lift

To facilitate safe goods transportation, Stannah installed the Goodsmaster CD goods-only lift. This heavy-duty goods lift, capable of carrying 1,000kg, features a robust steel cladding structure with protective epoxy finish, non-slip aluminium checker plate flooring and bump rails.

Operating at 0.15 metres per second, the lift has front-facing entrances for easy loading and unloading. The Goodsmaster is supplied with interlocking car and landing gates to prevent load movement during travel, car safety gear and a load weighing device to prevent overloading.

The goods lift also includes LED lighting with an automatic timer for energy efficiency, ensuring long-term reliability and performance.

Results

The multi-lift solution provided by Stannah prioritises accessibility, safe operation and energy efficiency. Design was also an important consideration and Stannah collaborated closely with architects Whittam Cox to align with the original design scheme of this stylish new Welcome Break.

Lift Consultants, SVM associates commented “We were pleased to work with Welcome Break to provide the escalator, goods and passenger lifts in their new service station at Rotherham. Stannah were a natural fit as a delivery partner, being able to provide all products under one umbrella. The units have gone on to provide a reliable service for motorists and retailers alike.”

By offering both a passenger lift and an escalator solution, Stannah ensures full accessibility for wheelchair users and pushchairs, allowing easy movement between floors while maintaining smooth traffic flow, even during peak periods. A separate goods lift further enhances operational efficiency while ensuring customer safety.

Stannah successfully integrated three lift solutions into the building’s structure, completing the project ahead of schedule and within budget.

This cohesive and effective solution met the project’s diverse needs, ensuring seamless access throughout the building and efficient transportation of goods.

Continued product support

The Stannah East Midlands branch based in Mansfield, part of a nationwide network providing comprehensive lift servicing and support for all makes and models, is managing the lifts’ maintenance under the lift warranty, ensuring they stay in excellent condition with regular servicing. With the branch arranging on-site engineer attendance for the high-profile local opening day.

Archie Hungwe, Chief Operating Officer at Stannah Lifts, said: “Working with Whittam and SVM Associates, we were thrilled to be involved in this exciting multi-million-pound motorway service area project on the M1 in Rotherham for Welcome Break. I would like to say a big thank you to all our teams for working so hard on this project. After lots of hard work, it’s great to see the site open and ready to welcome the public”.

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

Why Low-Carbon Precast Concrete Is No Longer a Compromise

Building Products Index Ltd Concrete, Precast Leave a Comment

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As the construction industry accelerates toward net-zero targets, the demand for sustainable materials has never been higher. While low-carbon concrete has been widely adopted for in-situ applications, precast concrete has traditionally lagged behind—mainly due to concerns around strength, durability, and consistency.

But that’s changing.

Thanks to innovations like ECO 1® from JKH, it’s now possible to achieve CEM I-equivalent performance in precast applications while significantly reducing carbon emissions. This marks a pivotal moment for the industry: low-carbon no longer means low-performance.

In this review, we’ll explore how low-carbon precast concrete has evolved and why it’s now a viable—and often preferable—alternative to traditional mixes.

What Is Low-Carbon Precast Concrete?

Traditional precast concrete is manufactured off-site using a high-cement mix, offering excellent strength, consistency, and durability. However, cement production is a major contributor to global CO₂ emissions.

Low-carbon precast concrete replaces a significant portion of cement with supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) like GGBS or fly ash. These mixes have historically been seen as less suitable for precast due to slower curing times or reduced early strength. But with proprietary blends like ECO 1, that’s no longer the case.

Key Differences—and Why They Matter Now

  1. Performance Without Compromise
  • Traditional Precast: Known for high strength and durability, especially in demanding environments.
  • ECO 1 Low-Carbon Precast ECO 1: Matches or exceeds traditional performance. ECO 1 retains CEM I standards while reducing cement content by 46%, achieving over 75 N/mm² at 28 days. It’s fully compliant with BS 8500-2:2023, including Design Chemical Class 4 and Design Sulphate Class 4—making it suitable for even the most aggressive environments.
  1. Environmental Impact
  • Traditional Precast: High embodied carbon due to cement content.
  • ECO1 Low-Carbon Precast: ECO 1 reduces CO₂ emissions by up to 49% with its ECO 1 ULTRA® variant, offering a genuine path to sustainable construction without sacrificing quality.
  1. Consistency and Quality
  • Traditional Precast: Offers factory-controlled consistency.
  • Low-Carbon Precast: Now delivers the same consistency and reliability, thanks to advanced mix design and rigorous testing. ECO 1 is used as standard across all JKH products, proving its reliability at scale
  1. Cost and Availability
  • Traditional Precast: Well-established and widely available.
  • Low-Carbon Precast: Once considered niche, it’s now mainstream. At JKH, ECO 1 is the default mix—offered at no extra cost—making sustainable choices more accessible than ever
  1. Project Suitability
  • Traditional Precast: Ideal for high-load, high-durability applications.
  • Low-Carbon Precast: Now equally suited for these applications, while also helping meet sustainability targets, LEED certification, and government carbon mandates.

Conclusion: A New Era for Precast Concrete

The assumption that low-carbon concrete can’t meet the demands of precast applications is now outdated. With solutions like ECO 1, the industry can move forward confidently—combining sustainability with strength, and innovation with reliability.

At JKH Ltd, we’re proud to lead this transformation. Whether you’re building infrastructure, commercial developments, or sustainable housing, our ECO 1 range ensures you no longer have to choose between performance and planet.

Let’s build better—together.

For more details on the ECO1 range, visit: https://www.jkhltd.co.uk/eco-1-range/ or contact us at sales@jkhltd.co.uk to discuss your needs.

*ECO 1 and ECO1 ULTRA are registered trade marks of JKH Drainage Ltd. All Rights Reserved.

The Francis Crick Institute – guaranteed waterproofing products for a state-of-the art facility

Building Products Index Ltd waterproofing Leave a Comment

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Architects: HOK and PLP Architecture
Main Contractor: Laing O’Rourke
Radmat Products used:
PermaQuik PQ6100 Hot Melt Bitumen Membrane
PQ2017 Reinforcing fabric
PQ2061Detailing Membrane
EshaFlex 370 FireSafe SBS modified bituminised cap sheet
Radmat 370 RootSafe bitumen-based waterproofing membrane, with anti-root treatment
Protherm XPS X MK Water Flow Reducing Layer
ProTherm G XPS X 300SL Insulation

Europe’s largest biomedical research facility

The Francis Crick Institute in Kings Cross, London is a state-of-the-art biomedical research facility that exemplifies innovative design and complex engineering. Completed in 2016, the institute was developed as a collaboration between major research organisations, including Cancer Research UK and University College London (UCL), with the aim of advancing scientific understanding of health and disease. Designed by HOK and PLP Architecture and constructed by Laing O’Rourke, the building spans 980,000 square feet and houses specialised laboratories and collaborative spaces for over 1,500 scientists.

David King, HOK’s lead architect on the project, remarked, “The Crick is a building designed to break down traditional research barriers. Its architecture promotes the interdisciplinary work needed to tackle some of the biggestchallenges in health and disease today.”

Five years ago, the Crick’s Clinical Research Director, Peter Ratliffe was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, alongside William Kaelin and Gregg Semenza, for the discovery of how cells sense and adapt to oxygen availability.

This design philosophy was crucial in developing a building that meets both the technical requirements of a research facility and the collaborative aspirations of a leading scientific institute. The Francis Crick Institute’s design incorporates a range of features that support its mission of interdisciplinary scientific research. The Institute stands as a massive and intricately designed facility. It spans 980,000 square feet (91,000 square meters) and rises to 46 meters (151 feet) in height across 12 floors, including six above ground and six below ground, housing labs, collaborative spaces, and administrative areas. Its open layout encourages collaboration, a core philosophy of the institute. The building is equipped with highly specialised laboratories, including those for bioinformatics, genomics, and imaging, with strict vibration control and containment measures essential for sensitive research. The lab spaces are flexible and modular, designed to be easily reconfigurable to meet research needs, and the open lab structure fosters knowledge sharing and collaboration between different research teams.

Sustainability at its core

Sustainability is a core element of the building’s design, incorporating energy-efficient systems, extensive natural lighting, rainwater harvesting, and brown roofs, all aimed at reducing the building’s environmental footprint. The building integrates communal spaces, such as atriums, open staircases, and lounge areas, to

encourage spontaneous interaction among scientists from different disciplines. The architecture is distinguished by a curving roof with natural timber accents, which enhances the building’s visual impact while helping it blend into the surrounding landscape. Positioned near St. Pancras International, the institute also benefits from strong transportation links, facilitating collaboration with scientists globally.

The unique shell structure is reinforced with a steel frame and concrete, providing the strength necessary for roofs to manage stormwater and support biodiversity. The building incorporates brown roofs, where wildflowers and plants can grow and bat boxes that encourage wildlife, support local biodiversity, manages stormwater, and reduces runoff. Additionally, the roof is designed with energy-efficient materials that help regulate internal temperatures, reducing heating and cooling costs. The roof not only serves as a visual element but also contributes significantly to the building’s sustainability and environmental integration, helping the building achieve a BREAMM excellent accreditation.

Integral to the roof structure is the waterproofing. Radmat’s PermaQuik Hot-Melt Monolithic Waterproofing System ensured a watertight seal with a 40-year guarantee and BBA Certification for the “design life of the building on which it is incorporated.” The PermaQuik waterproofing system ensured the maiin roof areas, terrace and brown roof will remain watertight for its lifetime. ProTherm G XPS X 300 SL insulation was installed above the waterproofing.

The Francis Crick Institute stands as a model of innovative design in biomedical research, merging cutting-edge architectural features with functional research space. By integrating sustainable design elements with state-of-the-art labs, flexible workspaces, and collaborative areas, the building fosters the interdisciplinary research necessary to tackle complex health challenges. Its unique roof design, along with other environmental features, enhances both the aesthetic appeal and ecological footprint of the building, making the Francis Crick Institute a key milestone in the future of scientific research facilities. Radmat’s PermaQuik Hot Melt Waterproofing system will ensure the roof structure’s integrity for many years to come.

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