Building Additions Innovative Folding Partition Enhances Flexibility at School

Building Products Index Ltd Movable Partitions, Partions Leave a Comment

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Building Additions were asked by Charlton & Newbottle C of E Primary school to provide a solution to maximise space and create a more flexible multi-purpose area within their existing building. Installing a partition on a stairway would allow activities to continue in the hall without being disturbed by classes moving about the building.

One of the primary motivations behind the installation was to overcome spatial limitations yet maintain a practical functionality. Beyond its practicality the school also wanted a safe and aesthetically pleasing partition that was in keeping with the overall appearance of the school.

The solution was Building Addition’s fabric Concertina partition. Concertina partition doors are a cost effective way of quickly dividing an area for multiple uses. As such fabric partition systems are widely used in educational establishments such as primary schools and children’s nurseries where the configuration of the room needs to be changed quickly and easily.

Designed for top track hanging, fabric room partitions are lightweight, easy and smooth to operate and do not cause any obstruction on the floor space. The fabric coating on the individual panels of the partition system is fully washable and contains antimicrobials to protect against mildew, mould, fungi and bacteria.

Our fabric partitions are available with four different levels of sound reduction to cater for different levels of sound proofing requirements and are available in a wide range of modern colours which means they can be easily tied in with an existing room design and colour scheme.

For more information about our fabric coated concertina partition doors view our brochure, request a quote using our online form or call one of our team on 01373 454577.

 

Profab Access supports construction industry in overcoming skills shortages

Building Products Index Ltd Doors, riser doors Leave a Comment

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With plasterers and dryliners officially listed on the UK Government’s shortage occupations list in August 2023, Profab Access is helping to combat the current shortage of construction professionals through its continuous commitment to innovation.

As one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of riser doors and access panels, Profab Access is calling for dryliners to adopt an alternative approach to the installation of riser doors that can cut fitting times by up to 30%, without negatively impacting compliance or performance.

This can be achieved by utilising Profab Access’ patented PRECISION Adjustable Frame system, which is supplied as standard with its VEGA 1500 Series and INTEGRA 4000 Series riser doors to support fast, safe and simpler installation methods.

The expertly engineered frame streamlines the installation process as it can be fully adjusted to meet the specific dimensions of each structural opening when installed into a flexible or solid wall construction.

 

Featuring a continual adjustable steel packer system, the PRECISION adjustable frame ensures the installation is fit for purpose by providing the highest standards in accuracy, whilst also removing the requirement for traditionally used packers during installation.

It also features built in factory applied intumescent fire rated mastic strips to the outer frame, which provides fire stopping between the wall and the frame. This eliminates the reliance on the correct thickness of intumescent mastic bead being applied, removing any potential margin for error and ensuring compliance and adequacy of the entire installation.

The PRECISION Adjustable Frame has been bi-directionally fire tested and certified by accredited third parties as an entire doorset with the VEGA 1500 Series for up to 60 minutes and INTEGRA 4000 Series for up to 120 minutes to comply with the latest building regulations.

This provides dryliners with a completely certified solution as both the frame and the riser door have been bi-directionally tested as a single doorset and are supplied with comprehensive documentation to evidence their performance credentials and adherence to all relevant regulations, including BS EN 1634-1:2014 +A1:2018.

Marcus Parnham, Commercial Director at Profab Access, said: “As one of the industry’s leading manufacturers, we are committed to continuous product innovation and development to support construction professionals in meeting the ever-increasing demands of the sector, without compromising on compliance.

“That’s why our PRECISION adjustable frame represents a real step change for the industry, as it supports professionals in fulfilling their duty of care by going above and beyond current legislation, whilst cutting fitting times by a third.”

For further information on Profab Access and its range of riser doors, access panels, and steel doors, call +44(0)1827 719051 or visit www.profabaccess.com.

New Step Lift Bespoke fits seamlessly into the range

Building Products Index Ltd Lift, Platform Leave a Comment

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The Platform Lift Company (PLC) has become a key UK distributor of the Danish based company Guldmann and its unique range of fully customisable and integrated platform lifts.

With this new manufacturer on board, PLC can provide specifiers with an embedded step lift solution that is totally concealed when not in use. The platform lift is built to specification and can be configured according to structural requirements.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The platform lift can be embedded into a flight of steps/stairs and the upper landing, when activated the steps/stairs fold to a flat surface. The platform can also be embedded at the lower level to leave the upper landing undistributed.

Alternatively, the platform lift can be built to either leave the upper landing or lower landing intact. When activated the stairs/steps transform into a lifting platform.

After operation, both models of step lifts can be returned to function as a standard staircase. They remain hidden as they are clad using the same floor finish as the surround area. This function makes the product an ideal solution for architecturally sensitive environments and where space is limited.

Each platform lift is made to specification to fit individual project and building requirements. Travel of the step lift can reach up 12 steps. Automatic roll off protection and safety barriers to ensure both user and non-user safety can be supplied.

With Guldmann as a manufacturer, Sean O’Sullivan, Managing Director of the Platform Lift Company, is excited about the possibilities for more bespoke installations especially within heritage buildings.

“We are frequently approached by architects and contractors who require a seamless access solution due to the sensitivity or aesthetics of a building. Having a step lift product which has different configurations gives us that ‘silver bullet’ that can overcome any type of barrier whether it is structural or architectural.

For more information about the Step Lift Bespoke please contact www.platformliftco.co.uk

Delta Launch Online Sump Pump Specification Guide

Building Products Index Ltd Cavity Drain Membranes, Membranes Leave a Comment

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Delta Membrane Systems Limited, are delighted to announce the launch of their new Online Sump Pump Specification Guide, simplifying the process in identifying suitable sump pumps and storage capacities of chambers for groundwater, surface water and foul water packaged pumping stations.

Delta’s Online Sump Pump Specification Guides can be found at https://www.deltamembranes.com/product-categories/pump-calculators/.

Drainage capacity and sump pump performance is an essential element in determining the success of drainage and pump station design, to simplify the process we have created a tool which assists the process.

3 Easy Ways to Access Product Technical Information

 We’ve split our Sump Pump Specification Guide into three sections:

Simply input the technical information to the various fields of the Specification Guide and the Specification Guide will highlight a product suitable for the drainage requirements of your project.  Pump selection is based on optimum/ideal performance of the sump pump based on the pump’s performance curve.

From this, simply click on the product selected to access full product functions your design team and product team members need.  All products have links to clear and easily readable and downloadable install guides, product data sheets, CAD details, brochures, fabrication sheets and “how to” video guides.

Basement Drainage ‘sump pump systems’ should be engineered to cope with worst-case scenario of water ingress.  We’ve been providing customers with high-quality basement drainage solutions for nearly 30 years. In that time our friendly, knowledgeable team has been offering technical advice, free specifications, and a helpful flow calculation service to our customers.

There are lots of resources on Pump Station Design, but this step-by-step Specification Guide will provide you with the tools and strategies you need to create a reliable, data-backed approach for your project.  Knowing which pump(s) work best for your project can simplify how products are specified, giving you confidence knowing that you’re not simply guessing.

Whilst Delta’s new Sump Pump Specification Guide is a great feature, we’ll still be offering the same in-person services for which we are renowned for.  Delta’s team of Pump Specification Technicians will be on hand to assist and facilitate correct specification of sump pumps and packaged pumping stations.  Every product specification provided by the Delta team is based on technical requirements, engineering specifications, and other details that are specific to the particular project.

We are always Happy to Help

Do you have questions about a project, product, or application?  In an ever-changing industry where reduced risk and higher quality is required, you need a waterproofing design partner that is proactive and dedicated to help you keep up with new technologies and solutions to ensure your projects thrive. Whatever the needs of your business, you can rely on the #DeltaTeam to ensure you get the right advice, support, and practical help at exactly the right time to keep you ahead of the competition.

Contact: 01992 523 523

Email: info@deltamembranes.com

Website: www.deltamembranes.com

Onwards and Upwards for Elite Precast Concrete Ltd

Building Products Index Ltd Concrete, Precast Leave a Comment

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Founded in 2008 by two friends Elite Precast Concrete Ltd from Telford in Shropshire have experienced over 14 years of unprecedented growth culminating in the most exciting phase in the company’s history starting in January 2023.

From humble beginnings in a small rural factory outside much Wenlock, Shropshire, Elite have grown to a turnover over £22m in 2022 and now employ nearly 100 staff spread over three factories in the heart of Telford’s industrial area. 

Supplying a huge range of precast concrete to all sectors and regions of the UK and beyond Elite have become the go to company for quick answers, great value products and good old fashioned personal customer service.

Then in December 2022 the company was delighted to welcome new majority shareholders in the form of Lloyds Animal Feeds (LAF Holdings Ltd). LAF are a Shropshire based privately owned company with a passion for investing in local businesses who have shown the drive and ambition to grow.

 

LAF’s ethos is to provide support where necessary but to allow the existing management to continue to develop the business. Commenting on the share sale Co-Owner Richard Doody said – ‘’we are so pleased to welcome LAF on board. Their proven track record in helping companies realise their full potential is second to none and with their backing we know Elite Precast Concrete will fulfil its ambition to double the size of the company in the next 10 years.

Almost immediately after the share sale was completed Elite were given the opportunity to purchase by far the biggest factory and yard on the trading estate where they are based and the company leapt at the chance. The acquisition of Unit (see below..) has doubled the production capacity for the company in terms of factory space with the new office providing a wonderful place for the staff to work too. With well over 100,000 square feet of space along with an extensive yard Elite are busy commissioning a state of art concrete batching plant which will help to make the many new products that Elite are planning to bring to the market during 2023.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For further details on new and existing products please contact sales@eliteprecast.co.uk or call 01952 588885 or visit www.eliteprecast.co.uk

A touch of class: Stannah helps modernise historic entertainment venue

Building Products Index Ltd Lift Leave a Comment

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It can be said that every entertainment venue has a sole purpose: to transport their patrons into another world where their cares can be forgotten, if only temporarily. For those venues that wish to transport their guests to a bygone era of glitz and glamour, it can be challenging to strike the right balance between modern conveniences and historical preservation.

Lifts are a regular focus of this challenge in heritage buildings, and Blackpool Winter Gardens is no ordinary building. First opened in 1878, this Grade II Listed 3,000-seater entertainment complex has entertained countless millions throughout the history of the popular Lancashire seaside resort town. Like any other building with more than one level, the requirement to safely and reliably transport people from one floor to another, especially those with limited mobility, is an essential one.

The challenge

One of the lifts at the Blackpool Winter Gardens, located right next to the historic Opera House theatre, had been in desperate need of repair for a long time. Used to transport patrons up to the upper Circle and Balcony seating areas, it is an essential piece of infrastructure to allow step-free access to these sections. The existing OTIS passenger lift dated back to somewhere around the 1950s was only safely able to carry 4 persons or a maximum load of 380 kg, and looked very dated with its plain oak panelling.

The existing lift dated back to the 1950s and in looks did not quite match up to the richness of its surroundings.

Since the lift could not be repaired due to some of its components becoming obsolete, the lift had been long out of service until Stannah was selected to undertake a complete replacement.

“Stannah was the ideal choice for the replacement of our Opera House passenger lift, which had been out of service for over 12 months. Working with Stannah has been so easy, and constant communication was kept from start to finish.”

Philip Jackson, Head of Maintenance, Winter Gardens Blackpool

The client

Winter Gardens became a popular trend in the late 1800s in numerous seaside resorts and spas, and were so called because they offered the possibility of extending the fun and entertainment of the summer season into the cold and darkness of winter. The Winter Gardens entertainment complex in Blackpool includes a theatre, ballroom and conference facilities and has been rebuilt and added to many times over the decades.

The beautiful Art Deco interior of the Blackpool Winter Gardens Opera House, reconstructed in 1939, oozes sophistication and character.

The opulent interior of the Opera House, which seats a total of 3,000 people.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Opera House is one of the UK’s largest theatres and continues to attract some of the world’s biggest touring shows and events to Blackpool. The iconic theatre has seen a host of famous stars on its stage since it first opened in 1939, including Frank Sinatra, Judy Garland and Shirley Bassey.

The result

The project manager from Stannah, Lee Mahoney, worked in close collaboration with the Winter Gardens’ head of maintenance Phil Jackson to design a lift that would complement the iconic architecture and decor of the first and third floors. Stannah also designed the brass plates on the landings to give a glamorous look to the control panel with its retro push buttons.

The new Stannah lift features reflective surfaces to add the perception of depth to the floor space of the lift, as well as touches that reflect the glitz and glamour of the Arts and Crafts Movement, such as brass panels and handles.

Stannah provided a new Xtralift passenger lift, which is much more energy efficient than its predecessor. It offers a capacity of 8 persons or a maximum load of 630 kg.

Although there were some challenges involved in the installation process, such as large heating pipes which had to be removed in the shaft, and having to avoid noisy works during opera and cinema shows on certain days, these issues were worked around with good communication on both sides, and the installation was completed in 8 weeks.

“Stannah has been great to work with from start to finish. They have impressed us so much that I am once again working with them on our replacement program for another two lifts.”

Philip Jackson, Head of Maintenance, Winter Gardens Blackpool

With its 150-year history, Stannah truly understands the importance of heritage, and with their Stannah Promise, also live up to their company values on a daily basis to offer Blackpool Winter Gardens the perfect mix of quality, safety, sustainability, reliability and cost-effectiveness.

Renovate lime render without the need to remove and replace

Building Products Index Ltd Filler Leave a Comment

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Lime render repair is usually a tricky job. Traditionally, it requires having to completely strip the wall of the existing render and replace it with two or three coats of new. However, fillers can provide a revolutionary solution.

Lime render is often found on older properties, and was used in the past to cover up the various different materials used in construction, such as stone, bricks and rubble. But the lime also allows the substrate to breathe, and protects against the weather. There is also an aesthetic element to its design, especially with certain decorative finishes that can be achieved with sponging or brushing and so, for these reasons, lime render remains a popular exterior finish.

Lime render renovation can be a complicated task, as it requires an initial scratch coat to assist with the adhesion of further layers, which are then covered with a finishing top-coat. With a drying time of several days between each coat, it can be a lengthy process, requiring much skill. And this is where an exterior filler can revolutionise the work.

If a complete covering of the lime render is required, an exterior filler for skim coating can be used, eliminating the need to entirely strip back the old render. Toupret offers two products, Skimcoat Filler and Ready To Use Skimcoat Filler, that can be used to cover over the damaged render to achieve either a smooth finish, with the use of a trowel, or a textured finish, when also using a brush.

Of course, diagnosis of the surface must first be carried out, as it is essential that it is hard, cohesive, clean, sound and dry for a filler to adhere to and perform efficaciously.

If any repair work is required before covering, other fillers can also assist, and still relieve you of the need to remove the existing lime render. For example, all Toupret exterior fillers can be used to fill non-structural holes and cracks in the render and can then be covered with a skim coat filler. Some fillers can adhere to old paintwork, some even to damp, and some can even be used to perform skim coating jobs to localised areas of the render.

The versatility of exterior fillers therefore enables repairs to be made, as well as offering a complete renovation solution that saves time and effort, and makes lime render repair no longer feel like such a difficult job.

Crittall windows – I’ll drink to that!

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

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A Cornish brewery has moved into renovated premises that give visitors a whole new experience of watching the creation of their favourite beers with Crittall Windows playing a crucial role in the new concept.

Verdant Brewery took over a rundown warehouse on a Penryn industrial estate and, in addition to installing the brewing vats, created 400 sq. metres for staff offices and a space for public use, dubbed the Taproom.

The new interior was created around a steel-framed installation with Crittall Corporate W20 windows providing a light and contemporary area where visitors can have a beer and something to eat while enjoying views through to the working brewery, a paramount consideration of the client.

In addition, The Taproom provides a mezzanine balcony overlooking an area that can also be used for entertainment from a DJ or with live music. The design was produced by locally-based architects Zelah Studio.

Said architect James Collins; “We used the W20 system as it allowed great flexibility and a quality industrial look that the client wanted. Large expanses of the glazing allowed us to create views of the brewery from all spaces.”

Addagrip Terraco: A Sustainable Vision, Competitive Pricing, and Fresh Talents

Building Products Index Ltd Resin Bound Surfacing Leave a Comment

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Introduction:

Addagrip Terraco, a prominent player in the resin surfacing industry, is making waves with its steadfast commitment to sustainability, customer value, and ongoing growth. With a strong emphasis on eco-friendly practices, a recent update to their price list, and the addition of new team members, Addagrip Terraco is poised to deliver exceptional solutions and cement their position as an industry leader.

Driving Sustainability:

At the heart of Addagrip Terraco’s ethos lies a deep-rooted commitment to sustainability. From responsibly sourcing materials to adopting eco-conscious manufacturing processes, Addagrip Terraco is actively reducing its ecological footprint. By choosing Addagrip Terraco’s resin surfacing solutions, customers can be confident that they are investing in environmentally responsible products that prioritise longevity, minimising waste, and promoting a greener future for generations to come.

Competitive Pricing for Customer Value:

In line with their dedication to customer satisfaction, Addagrip Terraco has recently unveiled an updated price list. This strategic move aims to enhance transparency and provide customers with competitive pricing for their resin surfacing needs. Addagrip Terraco’s unwavering focus on delivering value for money ensures that customers receive top-quality products at fair and competitive prices, strengthening their trust in the brand and fostering long-lasting partnerships.

Welcoming Fresh Perspectives:

Addagrip Terraco is thrilled to announce the addition of talented individuals to their expanding team. These new team members bring fresh perspectives, expertise, and creativity, further strengthening Addagrip Terraco’s ability to deliver outstanding solutions and exceptional service to their clients. By investing in talent and cultivating a collaborative work environment, Addagrip Terraco ensures that their team stays at the forefront of industry trends and innovation.

Conclusion:

Addagrip Terraco continues to pave the way as a sustainable industry leader, offering innovative resin surfacing solutions that prioritise longevity and eco-conscious practices. Their recent updates to the price list provide customers with transparency and competitive pricing, enabling them to plan their projects effectively. With a dedicated team of professionals, Addagrip Terraco remains focused on delivering exceptional value and unrivalled service to their clients. By choosing Addagrip Terraco, customers can be confident in their decision to support a company that is committed to sustainability, customer satisfaction, and driving positive change in the industry.

Project Focus: The Spireworks, Oxford

Building Products Index Ltd waterproofing Leave a Comment

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Our industry knowledge, experience and product diversity provided a full building envelope solution for a new, cutting-edge student accommodation development.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What was the project?

The Spireworks in Oxford is a new £21 million student accommodation building with 137 bedrooms and various amenities. The roofing and cladding section was undertaken by contractors, Roofworx (UK) Ltd, using a range of high-quality products from Soprema. Despite initial delays and COVID-19 restrictions, the project finished on time and within budget thanks to the expertise of Roofworx and the support and guidance from Soprema. The building now provides comfortable and safe accommodation for students in the heart of Oxford, and will do so for many years to come.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Soprema Products

Overall, a total of 1,200m2 of Soprema product was specified and installed for the project. This included:

  • 450m2 of Soprema’s SOPRATORCH bituminous membrane multi-layer system
  • SOPRATHERM tapered scheme to levels one, two and four of the building
  • 720m2 of Soprema’s DUOFLEX hot melt system for the main roof area
  • 200mm SOPRA XPS insulation and 56mm cement board upstands
  • 50m2 of Soprema’s FLAGON single ply solution to all canopies and lift-over runs with edge trims and drips

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Result?

Matthew Coupe, Managing Director at Roofworx (UK) Ltd, said: “The roofing and cladding element of this project was very complicated with numerous difficult interfaces. We utilised a range of high-quality products from Soprema as we knew the leading manufacturer would deliver not only in terms of product reliability, but would be backed by a strong and knowledgeable in-house technical team, as well as system warranties.

“We were very well supported by Soprema, who has its own in-house QA procedure to ensure all aspects of the waterproofing were well documented. Every stage of the build-up was captured, and the workmanship scrutinised by the field technicians so we could achieve an uncompromised finish.”

For more information about the Soprema products specified for this project, get in touch with our technical experts at techsupport@soprema.co.uk