The Compton, St John’s Wood

Building Products Index Ltd Cladding, Treads Leave a Comment

View the AATI entry on BPindex

Visit the AATI website

Client: Regal Homes

Architect: Simon Bowden

Contractor: MPRICE

Product: Bespoke cast metal façade

Material: Aluminium

AATi - The Compton_Dusk_REGALThe ComptonOne of the world’s first cast aluminium clad-buildings, has reached completion and has just welcomed its first tranche of resident’s spring 2019.

Commissioned and built by luxury boutique developer, Regal London and designed by Simon Bowden Architecture.

The façade is constructed from recycled cast aluminium, which was selected for its adaptable properties, culminating in a distinguished appearance and a one-of-a-kind architectural design.

 

AATi - The Compton Entrance_REGALAATi had our highly skilled team of engineers working on this project and with in-house CAD software including casting simulation (pictured right), we were able to assess critical casting details and run a series of tests before any castings were produced!

 

 

AATi - The Compton_low-res_REGALRegal Homes said “Renowned for their expertise, cast metal manufacturer, AATi, were enlisted to assist in the development and manufacturing of the panels. A quality assurance benchmark was created so that if, during transit or installation, any scratches or chips were deemed too severe, the panels would be rejected, and replacements would be manufactured. Specialist foil packaging and handling guidelines were even devised to protect the panels and, of the 1,800 panels made, just two were rejected!”

https://www.regal-london.co.uk/developments/the-compton

Stay tuned for up and coming projects including; 66 Shoe Lane, Manchester Life Plot and Chelsea Barracks.

Five Tonnes of Plastic Saved from Landfill in 2019 by Award-Winning Recycling Service

Building Products Index Ltd waterproofing Leave a Comment

View the Newton Waterproofing entry on BPindex

Visit the Newton Waterproofing website

An innovative and unique recycling service set up by Newton Waterproofing has saved 5.174 tonnes of plastic from going to landfill in 2019.

The UK’s leading independent designers and suppliers of guaranteed waterproofing and damp proofing systems had 223 bags of HDPE membrane returned to them throughout the course of the year as part of the Newton Membrane Recycling Scheme.

Recycling-membrane-scene-rgbBy recycling waste plastic into new products instead of manufacturing from new HDPE, during 2019 alone Newton have prevented 5.944 tonnes of CO2e emissions from being released into the atmosphere; the equivalent of burning 1.96 metric tonnes of petrol and saving enough energy to make 826,200 mugs of tea.

Furthermore, since the scheme’s launch in 2017 it has successfully prevented over 13.7 tonnes of plastic from going to landfill, equivalent to preventing 15.746 tonnes of CO2 from entering the atmosphere.

It’s no surprise, then, that the service has won six awards in just over two years, including the ‘Charles Darwin Award’ from the British and Irish Trading Alliance (BITA); the ‘Commitment to the Environment Award’ at the Kent Excellence in Business Awards (KEiBA); the prestigious ‘Innovation of the Year’ award from the National Building Awards; and the ‘Sustainability’ award at the Property Care Association Best Practice Awards.

Newton Waterproofing’s Managing Director Warren Muschialli said: “Our innovative recycling service had another tremendous year in 2019 and, as well as the environmental benefits, we also saved 223m3 of skip space on site, equivalent to more than 24 full skips and therefore 50 skip journeys. This obviously delivers further emission and cost savings.”

The closed-loop scheme works in collaboration with the company’s Newton Specialist Basement Contractors (NSBC) who collect waste off-cuts of plastic membrane on their projects.

The waste is then collected by Newton at the same time as making deliveries of new materials, therefore preventing additional emissions from transporting the plastic. Finally, the material is chipped into small granules by Newton, then collected by a national recycler for reprocessing and reusing to make new products for the construction industry.

“We are proud to operate what is the only recycling service in the waterproofing industry,” added Warren.

“With the Government setting a target of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, it presents the construction industry with a wonderful opportunity to make a difference.”

Newton Waterproofing design and supply guaranteed waterproofing and damp proofing systems for all structures, from large-scale commercial developments to new build and existing domestic properties. For more information, call 01732 360 095 or email info@newtonwaterproofing.co.uk.   

EASI-DEC ROOFLINE – THE ALTERNATIVE TO SCAFFOLDING

Building Products Index Ltd Roof Protection System, Safety railing system 3 Comments

View the Easi-Dec entry on BPindex

Visit the Easi-Dec website

Safe Fascia and Soffit workEasi-Dec’s Roofline System provides a safe, efficient and cost-effective solution for accessing roofline level when carrying out gutter, soffit and fascia replacements.

The Easi-Dec Roofline system allows trained operatives to erect the access equipment on the day that work is to be carried out, causing less disruption to customers and removes the need to appoint external scaffold companies on some installations.  Its individual platforms can also be used on window replacement contracts which offer further flexibility with the equipment.

 

 

Easi-Dec Roofline

Easi-Dec Roofline is a modular system incorporating one or more Easi-Dec platforms linked securely with Easi-Dec Catwalk to form a continuous fully guarded platform. It has been designed to provide simple, rapid access to roofline level by eliminating the time constraints of erecting scaffolding and can be set up in less than 30 minutes. The 8 metre Roofline system comprises 2 Easi-Dec platforms and a Catwalk. It features telescopic legs that provide height adjustment in 30mm increments and can even cope with sloping ground. With a comprehensive range of accessories the Easi-Dec Roofline offers numerous benefits and can overcome a wide variety of challenging access situations.

Roofline Fully Guarded PlatformThe Roofline system is available with a standard leg height of 3.3m -5.5m, with alternative leg lengths also available enabling workers to cover the majority of properties, ranging from 2.34m (typical bungalow) up to 6.8m (2 storey town house).

 

 

 

New Tipperary Museum of hidden history protects its exhibits with MEDITE CLEAR

Building Products Index Ltd MDF Panels Leave a Comment

View the Medite Smartply entry on BPindex

Visit the Medite Smartply website

The newly refurbished Tipperary Museum of Hidden History has put the wellbeing of both its artefacts and guests first by extensively using MEDITE CLEAR in its brand-new interior fit-out, an MDF panel manufactured with zero-added formaldehyde.

24/10/2019. New Tipperary Museum of Hidden History Opens at Mick Delahunty Square, Clonmel, Co. Tipperary. Picture: Patrick Browne

Formaldehyde is a substance that occurs naturally in all organic materials, including wood, in very small amounts that may be off- gassed or emitted over time. This is acceptable as the levels of formaldehyde emitted are extremely low—virtually undetectable. However, for ancient or extremely old, fragile and extremely sensitive objects such as museum artefacts, which are irreplaceable, every effort must be taken to ensure their immediate environment is as clear of substances such as formaldehyde and other VOC’s, to help them last as long as possible.

After independent tests, MEDITE CLEAR has been proven to have a formaldehyde content of less than 1.0mg/100g—even less than the general outdoor ambient level. With this guarantee, museum curators are able to more accurately monitor and limit formaldehyde levels in their showrooms.

49 AG8I0181Ordinary wooden materials may contain a higher level of formaldehyde, or levels more difficult to accurately measure. When precious artefacts are to be protected, no chances can be taken. As a specially developed solution for this purpose, MEDITE CLEAR has been preferred over natural wood in some of the largest and most famous museums in the Europe, including London’s British Museum and The Victoria and Albert Museum, for the level of indoor environmental control it offers.

Marie McMahon, curator for the Tipperary County Museum explains: “We have been thrilled to use MEDITE CLEAR to transform the museum during its recent refurbishment.

“It was a priority when embarking on the task to ensure the longevity of our artefacts—and the wellbeing of our visitors. MEDITE CLEAR was the answer.

46 AG8I0175“The entire floor has been completely re- designed and re-fitted with brand new display cases, plinths and stands. Over time, there is a definite tangible impact in the lifespan of an ancient or fragile artefact when it’s housed in a case constructed with MEDITE CLEAR compared to one made with regular wood panels. It’s a trustworthy product that has also proven to be extremely versatile and easy to work with in terms of machining and shaping.”

Independent tests have shown that the formaldehyde content of MEDITE CLEAR is Formulated originally for sensitive interior applications such as hospitals, schools and care homes, for the health and wellbeing of building occupants, there is potential for MEDITE CLEAR to be used throughout public buildings and even modern homes, in positive efforts to help maintain the best indoor air quality possible. It’s suitable for use in non- stressed applications making it ideal for cabinets, display cases, furniture, fixtures and mouldings.

47 AG8I0177Located on Mick Delahunty Square, in the heart of Ireland’s Ancient East, the Tipperary Museum of Hidden History officially opened following a launch in October 2019. Following a joint investment of €500,000 from Failte and Tipperary County Council, the museum’s renovation featured the use of 169 panels within the remodelling of the venue’s extensive display to the Tipperary public. It houses a collection of 25,000 artefacts from prehistory to present day, it is expected that it will attract at least 21,000 visitors over the next five years.

“MEDITE CLEAR is the ideal product for interior museum fit outs. We can be confident in its low formaldehyde content, helping us to preserve our incredibly precious artefacts.” said Marie.

The museum brings the county’s hidden history vividly to life through memorable historic characters and amazing stories. Using video projection, the venue aims to create a multi- layered and visual space for visits, also running a show designed to run parallel to school curriculums.

MEDITE CLEAR can be produced in a range of panel sizes and thicknesses (1220mm x 2440mm).

Download a full datasheet and request a free sample here.

 

Only one in 10 UK residents support creation of new towns as a solution to the housing crisis

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

View the Eurocell entry on BPindex

Visit the Eurocell website

Just 10% of the UK population believes that the construction of new towns is the best way to tackle the UK housing crisis, according to a new report.

Housing estate in Stirling, Scotland.

The research has been published by Eurocell plc, the UK’s leading manufacturer, distributor and recycler of PVC-U window, door, conservatory and roofline systems. It highlights a reticence around the concept of new towns since the construction of places such as Milton Keynes and Telford in the mid-twentieth century.

By contrast, 43% of those surveyed would prefer the conversion of old, unused buildings and the regeneration of run-down communities or brownfield sites.

Only 4% said they would favour the construction of a greater number of high-rise buildings – a solution that is currently being implemented in high-density population areas such as Manchester and London.

New towns have been proposed as a possible answer to the current housing shortfall. This has led to the development of plans for a new town in Ebbsfleet and as many as five being proposed along the Cambridge-Oxford corridor.

High angle view of houses in a neighbourhood in Liverpool, England. A tilt/shift focus technique has been used.

Consumers were asked about the challenges they saw in plans for projects such as these coming to life. A third believed that ‘not in my backyard’ attitudes of residents would hamper approvals, with a further 24% saying that a lack of collaboration between planning authorities and infrastructure providers would make these new developments problematic. The same number again identified environmental concerns as a major obstacle.

Respondents also highlighted a number of challenges when it came to the conversion of unused buildings and the regeneration of run-down communities or brownfield sites. These included cost (37%), planning authorities lacking the power to reclaim old buildings (31%), listed building status preventing regeneration (27%) and planning authorities placing too much emphasis on new builds (23%).

Given that the UK needs to build in excess of 300,000 new homes per year for the next decade to clear the current shortfall, it is vital that a wide variety of options is considered.

a large unused urban brownfield site with open land covered in cracked overgrown concrete awaiting development in leeds england

This research clearly suggests a preference amongst the UK public for regeneration and the use of brownfield sites, but demand for these spaces is almost certain to outstrip supply. It is far more likely that a balanced mix of all approaches will be required. It’s therefore important that residents’ concerns over the potential impact of new towns are taken into serious consideration.

The research is part of Eurocell’s ‘Future Communities’ report which can be downloaded in full here.

A new sales brochure presents the Cistermiser infrared urinal control valve

Building Products Index Ltd Toilet Flush Leave a Comment

View the Cistermiser entry on BPindex

Visit the Cistermiser website

At Cistermiser our world is water

Cistermiser IRC sales brochure PR imageCistermiser’s market-leading IRC® infrared urinal flushing control valve is fully detailed in an informative new sales brochure, designed for ease of use by specifiers, installers and merchant counter staff.

Fitted together with a robust and proven brass-bodied solenoid valve assembly, the IRC® sensor now features a compact body shape, an economy mode option to provide even greater water savings, a new-style mounting bracket for recessed installations and an improved design which allows clients to replace batteries in convenient fashion by simply removing the front fascia to access the battery compartment.

IRC with cistern & urinals 96dpiThe IRC® employs motion-sensing infrared to automatically control the flushing of cistern-fed urinals, minimise water wastage and ensure compliance with Water Regulations. When the PIR sensor detects movement, the solenoid valve is activated, allowing water into the cistern.

“Flexibility underpins the continued success of our best-selling IRC®,” says Cistermiser’s Marketing Manager Mark Schlotel. “The sensor is adaptable and can be pipe, wall or ceiling mounted, surface-mounted or recessed to conceal the unit and reduce the risk of vandalism. The IRC® can be battery or mains-powered and batteries can also be used to provide back-up to mains supply, if required.”

IRC surface mounted and concealed - all in one boxThe IRC® is WRAS approved and designed with practicality in mind. Communicative green, amber or red LED status alerts guide installers and end users to ensure ease of commissioning, testing and confirmation of water-saving operating mode.

“The IRC® is ready to install straight out of the box and reduces water consumption by over 80%,” continues Mark. “In normal operating mode, the unit runs with a 30-minute cycle which means the cistern will flush a maximum of 2 times per hour. In economy operating mode, an additional delay of 15 minutes is provided before the normal mode cycle is activated, to save even more water resources.”

Elite links up with new logistics partner

Building Products Index Ltd Concrete, Precast Leave a Comment

View the Elite Precast Concrete entry on BPindex

View the Elite Precast Concrete website

One of the UK’s leading manufacturers of precast concrete has teamed up with a new logistics provider.

Elite Precast-Shropshire Express Deliveries 8Elite Precast Concrete will work in partnership with flatbed haulage specialists Shropshire Express Deliveries to ensure its nationwide delivery operation runs like clockwork.

The exclusive relationship will create a transport solution tailor-made for the precast concrete industry and underline Elite’s ethos of providing the highest levels of customer service.

Owen Batham 1Owen Batham, Sales and Marketing Director of Elite Precast, said: “Our logistics operation is very important to us, so it was vital to find the right partners.

“We wanted to build a long-term relationship with a company we can fully rely on and, in Shropshire Express Deliveries, I’m confident we’ve found just that.

 
Elite Precast-Shropshire Express Deliveries (2)“They’ll provide a really cost-effective service carried out by experienced drivers in the highest standard of delivery vehicles.

“But they also place great value on top-quality customer care and that’s something we’re absolutely passionate about.”

Elite also works in partnership with logistics specialists Hallett Silbermann, based in Hertfordshire. The relationship enables the company to provide deliveries that are FORS Gold, Silver and Bronze compliant and that are approved for HS2, Crossrail, CLOCS and Tideway projects in London and the South East.

The business, which operates from two factories in Telford, focuses on providing the best possible value within the precast industry.

A uniquely lean business model enables it to drive down costs and pass savings directly on to customers.

The company manufactures a vast range of semi-dry and wet-cast products for every sector of UK industry and a portfolio that includes interlocking blocks, ballast blocks, safety/security barriers, service protection and drainage products.

Elite Precast-Shropshire Express Deliveries 3The deal will also have significant implications for Shropshire Express Deliveries, according to owner/director Neil Bennett.

The company, also based in Telford, has taken on a string of new drivers as well as office staff as a direct result of the new partnership.

It has brought in five new 44-tonne tractor units, together with trailers featuring side protection, to supplement its fleet of fully Euro 6 compliant vehicles.

And it has installed a state-of-the-art booking and tracking system that enables the company to pick up Elite orders automatically.

He said: “The new partnership is fantastic news for the company and a big step forward for us.

“It’s the biggest contract we’ve won since we launched the business six years ago and it’s a real vindication of how we operate.

“We’re very much focused on quality of service and that was crucial to Elite, which insists on putting customers first.”

Crittall featuring in BBC’s Great British Railway Journeys.

Building Products Index Ltd Steel, Windows Leave a Comment

View the Crittal entry on BPindex

Visit the Crittal website

IMG_2309The BBC’s popular Great British Railway Journeys programme presented by Michael Portillo, the former Secretary of State and steam train enthusiast, recently alighted to film at Crittall’s Witham-based state-of-the-art manufacturing facility base for iconic steel windows, doors and internal screen production for over 170 years.

The resulting programme will be aired on BBC2 on Wednesday 22 January 2020, at 6.30pm, and shows the affable and intrepid presenter in the factory where he helps shape a window for US Ivy League University, Yale.

IMG_5793Michael also tours the factory before being seen heading to Silver End to discuss its impact as a concept and the Silver End (Crittall) trainline that used to be there.

In the programme Crittall Chairman John Pyatt is seen outside the manor house in Silver End?, discussing its history and the 1930’s housing boom, highlighting Crittall’s significant influence on architectural design.

Crittall is the only company featuring in this episode produced by Boundless Productions.

Design & Build Waterproofing Philosophies for Podium Decks, Buried Roofs, Balconies and Terraces

Building Products Index Ltd Membranes Leave a Comment

View the Delta Membrane entry in BPindex

Visit the Delta Membrane website

View Delta Membrane’s technical information

View Delta Membrane’s fields of applications

Delta’s Technical Waterproofing Consultant and Architect, Michael Vernon considers Waterproofing Design philosophies

building section 3d rendering

There are many common pitfalls when it comes to designing a waterproofing system for podium decks, buried roofs, balconies and terraces.  Products do not fail!  When failures occur, it is due to the design and build philosophy not being correct.  The devil is in the detail – all waterproofing elements must be considered at the construction design stage to be durable and effective.

The trend for outdoor living has led to a market growth in external balconies, large roof/ground floor terraces and patios.  As well as adding monetary value to a property, external areas can be aesthetically pleasing, offering a wide range of colours, textures and finishes to a home.

Concrete deck 10Outside living can also help to promote health and well-being benefits as these extra useable areas for open air living, help to soften heavily urbanised locations and steadily increase the number of green and usable spaces for leisure.

Balconies, roof terraces and patios are part of a trend which is inspired by aspirational and luxury living in suburban and rural areas alike.

 

When specified with the correct waterproofing systems, all types of installations are possible, however the design needs careful consideration and a CSSW qualified Waterproofing Design Specialist should always be consulted at the earliest opportunity.

Deuxan 2CThe primary requirement of waterproofing design is the prevention of water ingress and the management of water and water vapour movement through and out of a structure.  The design ethos for waterproofing podium decks, buried roofs, balconies and terraces is identical to that used in any below ground area of a structure.

There are many different approaches to structural waterproofing.   The construction methods will in part contribute to the specification of types of waterproofing systems and may also determine the overall structural waterproofing strategy.

Structural waterproofing falls into 3 categories:

Type A – Barrier Protection

Type B – Structurally Integral Protection

Type C – Drained Protection

With 3 grades:

Grade 1 – Some water seepage and damp are tolerable depending on the intended use

Grade 2 – No water penetration is acceptable

Grade 3 – No dampness or water penetration is acceptable

Delta Deck (5) copySuccessful waterproofing design lies with choosing the most appropriate combinations of structure and waterproofing system to achieve pre-determined performance levels and criteria.  In order to design out risk of failure due to less than adequate workmanship, damage or defects on site it is also important to consider practicality and ease of installation, the phasing of the construction process and the scope for testing and certifying during construction.

In summary, it is the duty of the waterproofing designer to assess a variety of factors and variables simultaneously and to come to a logical and balanced decision regarding the design. Working as part of the design team and keeping abreast of changes, revisions and updates to the project is important because these could have a bearing upon the environmental, structural and other stresses that may be imposed upon the waterproofing system and adaptations may need to be made. Ensuring proper training, application expertise, certification and testing procedures on the part of the installing contractor is critical. Whether the proposed construction is warm roof, cold roof, green roof, blue roof or a combination of types the principles stated here will apply in equal measure to achieve a successful long-term outcome.

If you would like to find out about structural waterproofing, damp proofing, ground gas protection systems, flood resilience or installing a Delta System we’re happy to help.  Give us a call on 01992 523 523 or email info@deltamembranes.com

 

WIN WITH ALBANY PAINTS!

Building Products Index Ltd Paint Leave a Comment

View the Albany entry on BPindex

Visit the Albany website

Albany, the quality trade paint brand exclusively available at Brewers, celebrates its 100th birthday in 2020. As part of the celebrations, Brewers are giving you the chance to win one of 20 coffee machine prizes in their latest Facebook competition.

Albany Coffee Machine - 1200 x 628

For your chance to win one of 20 prizes consisting of a Delonghi ECC 221.B Espresso & Cappuccino Coffee Machines (in black) plus a pair of limited edition Albany enamel mugs simply enter via the Brewers Facebook page 

Albany Coffee Machine - pop up form thumbnail

Albany paints, wallpaper collections and sundries are available from the Brewers network of over 170 stores and online at Wallpaperdirect.com and Designerpaint.co.uk Open a Brewers Card to get 20% off your first purchase and save 10% on Albany products – sign up today! 

20 percent copy