Is your RCD protection up to standard?

Building Products Index Ltd RCD Switched sockets, Socket Leave a Comment

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Valiance_Plus_Logo_CMYK copyThe latest British Standard for RCD protection has been in force for over 2 years and it really is  time to give your customers all the benefits of the latest thinking on their safety.RCD10WPVN_Catalog

That’s where the new Timeguard Valiance+ range of RCD-protected switched sockets and spurs comes in. As usual, this trusted supplier has gone the extra mile and, as well as upgrading features to meet the new British Standard BS7288:2016, it has undertaken a complete redesign and upgraded to the latest generation of componentry throughout.  So, both end-user safety and long-term reliability are improved.

The Valiance+ range of 1-gang and 2-gang RCD switched sockets in both active and passive versions is fully compliant with the new BS 7288:2016: Specification for residual current devices. This latest standard replaces BS 7288:1990.

RCD07MAVN_CatalogThe comprehensive range of RCD wiring accessories covers all you’ll need including white plastic and rugged metal clad variants in both 1 gang and 2 gang and a choice of 3 styles of RCD switched fuse spurs.

www.timeguard.com

Altro innovation and partnership key to century of success

Building Products Index Ltd Flooring, Rubber, Safety Leave a Comment

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first company photoAltro is celebrating 100 years in business. Founded in 1919 by a small group of individuals with a big idea, the company now has more than 900 employees globally, with a heritage of innovation including inventing safety flooring, developing a hygienic walls system and creating the world’s first adhesive-free safety floor.

Richard Kahn is Altro’s CEO, and the third generation to lead this Hertfordshire-based family company that has offices across Europe, the Americas and Asia Pacific. “One successful innovation could be luck; repeated success needs a little help,” he explains. “We’ve always known that speaking with, listening to and partnering with customers, end users, contractors, engineers and designers is the key to getting what we do right. It’s allowed us to be bold and to explore design and functional possibilities, without losing sight of who we’re doing it for.”

Altro100 staffAltro’s first safety floor was installed in 1950 in a church hall in Nottingham. Remarkably, that same flooring is still in place and when last tested still rates PTV≥40, meaning it has kept users safe for nearly 70 years. Altro has continued to turn creative thinking into practical real-world solutions that can transform everyday spaces into environments that improve the wellbeing of everyone that uses them. Innovations include developing sparkle-free safety flooring which has transformed design for dementia, and Altro XpressLay: the world’s first adhesive-free and fully recyclable safety flooring.

100_year_logo_landscape_reverse_CMYKAltro shares its centenary with the Bauhaus design school, which was also founded in 1919 and is based in Dessau just a few hundred metres from Altro’s German site. In developing the new Altro Ensemble modular flooring collection, the design team took inspiration from the Bauhaus philosophy of bridging the gap between form and function to engineer products that meet the customers’ biggest challenges, such as the need for cleanability, sustainability and flexibility.

“While the world in 1919 couldn’t seem more different from today’s, our excitement at embracing and developing new technologies and ways of working is exactly the same as back then,” says Richard Kahn. “Add to this that we remain a family business, with family values and I think you have the reason why we’re here today, celebrating our centenary.”

A contemporary recycled block with a unique composition

Building Products Index Ltd Masonry Blocks Leave a Comment

View the Lignacite entry on BPindex

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3_2562_N149Whether your project requires concrete facing masonry or a modern style brick, Lignacite’s versatile range of standard blocks and Roman Bricks offers architects and designers a solution. With its contemporary facade, wide range of colours and textures the Roman Brick in particular, is fast becoming popular with architects striving to find a material that not only look, good, but is affordable, easy to handle and saves on build time.

Snowstorm SplitP+HS Architects chose to specify the Roman Brick on one of their latest projects, Burleigh Medical Centre, a Primary Care Centre. P+HS said “Our client chose the ‘Split’ faced Snowstorm Roman brick, due to its unique composition containing light reflecting particles of recycled material. This contemporary module enhancedthe exterior of this prominent building a high-quality finish whilst presenting a heavily contrasted feel against the anthracite roof and wall cladding”.

1_Main_BurleighP+HS went on to explain that this new build consists of a two storey primary care Medical Centre and integrated Pharmacy. Developed to serve an area of significant deprivation, the welcoming new building has brought increased patient capacity, extended opening hours and enhanced services as well as an outstanding environment for patients and staff. The building stands as a beacon of quality in the heart of the community it is designed to serve, its design rooted in local heritage.

Community was at the heart of the client’s aspiration from the outset: their vision was for a state-of-the-art building that was an attractive focal point within the neighbourhood, creating a space both inside and out that was contemporary and engaging for its service users.

2_Burleigh street1The design concept pays homage to Barnsley’s historic mining community which is reflected abstractly in the choice of materials both inside and out. The heavily contrasting materials have contributed to the buildings striking appearance and its positive impact within the prominent site off the Alhambra roundabout on Sheffield Road which is a key gateway position within Barnsley.

The setting out of the acoustic art panels react to natural light entering the building and the carefully selected feature lighting. The artwork also connects the reception areas and the waiting areas by the use of subtle and simple wayfinding colours of yellow and blue which differentiate the ground and the first floor.

About the Lignacite Roman Brick

Lignacite’s Roman Brick is smaller than a block, larger than a brick and available in our full range of over 50 colours, textures and finishes, created to offer a contemporary and modern design feature for Architects and Designers.

The Roman Brick is either cut from our standard size block, or formed in a special block machine mould, we can therefore offer this format in all of our colours and texture combinations to create a large variety of different effects. Polished and Planished finishes allow crisp, clean lines, whilst splitting or shot blasting the product creates a softer more weathered appearance.

How is it made?

As with all Lignacite products, Roman Bricks are manufactured from a range of different aggregates and incorporate a high percentage of recycled materials such as shell block, re-cycled glass and mother of pearl.

Build Benefits

The units measure 440mm by 65mm, one third of the size of a traditional block, thereby allowing designers considerable flexibility and scope to create a unique look. The unit weighs less than 7kgs, a third of the weight of a traditional block, meaning no HSE issues during the build whilst using this product.Being twice the length of a conventional brick, they can be laid more quickly, the Roman Brick also doesn’t ‘swim’ making it easier to lay and thus show a saving.

Versatility

Whilst creating a contemporary look, the use of Roman Brick can also facilitate new buildings to blend into more traditional settings.

Custom-Made

Our aim is to work alongside designers to create unique products that compliment individual projects. This can include using the recycled aggregate from an existing building on a site, through to incorporating almost anything from natural sea shells to luminescent powder coated glass.

For further information on the Roman Brick, Lignacite standard blocks, samples and Swatch Guides showing all our block finishes please visit our website. Design Guidance and Sitework Guides can be downloaded from the Technical Library on our website. To book our CPD please book online at lignacite.co.uk or call 01482 810678.

Credits & Links:

Photos by kind permission – Guy Carpenter of Gullwing Photography.

Architect – P+HS

http://www.pandhs.co.uk/

 

 

Reliable BBA Approved Waterproofing products from Delta Membrane Systems Limited

Building Products Index Ltd Waterproof Membranes, waterproofing Leave a Comment

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Visit the Delta Membrane website to view:

Koster product details

Latest News

Case studies
NB 1 Grey

We are delighted to announce the achievement of the British Board of Agrément (BBA) certification for NB 1 (19/5619i1).  Koster NB 1 is a mineral coated waterproofing slurry containing crystallising and capillary-plugging agents. It can be used for waterproofing against ground moisture and for non-pressurized and pressurized water.   NB 1 Grey is characterized by its excellent resistance to pressure and abrasion as well as chemical and sulphate resistance.

Spray_Application_of_Koster_NB_1_001 copy“The BBA’s certification of Koster NB 1 is a significant milestone for this excellent product,

the symbol of quality and reassurances in our structural waterproofing solutions.  We believe that this will provide Specifiers, Architects, Engineers and Contractors alike with even greater confidence when specifying Koster NB 1 into their structural waterproofing projects.

NB_1_Spray_Applied copyWe shall continue to lead the field in structural waterproofing and hope to continue our progress by having more products certified by the British Board of Agrément”.

Christopher Burbridge, Delta’s Managing Director

 

Who is the BBA and what is BBA Approval?

Soffit Application of NB1 and SB Bonding emulsion with Repairmortar filletsThe British Board of Agrément (BBA), is the UK’s major authority for the evaluation and certification of construction products.  For manufacturers (such as Delta) to achieve BBA Approval for a product, the product must go through rigorous laboratory tests, on-site evaluations and thorough manufacturing assessments.  If the product successfully meets all the criteria it is awarded BBA Approval and Agrément Certificate.

Why is BBA product Approval so important?

Koster_NB_1_BBA_QR_Code copyBBA Approval is an independent assurance that a product will perform as the manufacturer claims it will.  The BBA’s reputation for robust testing gives the NHBC, builders, specifiers, local authorities, and others within the industry reassurance that a product is of a consistent quality, will perform and will last.  As the British Board of Agrément say “BBA products won’t let you down!”

Our current BBA Certificates (00-3742 and 18/5509) covers Approvals for Delta MS 20, MS 500, FM, PT and Koster Deuxan 2C. Also Delta’s Memtech M1 Gas Barrier and Memtech R1 Gas Barrier Certificate number 16/5367.

Impact of the Fire Regulation Changes on Roofing Systems

Building Products Index Ltd Insulation, Waterproof Membranes, waterproofing Leave a Comment

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_©Jon Lucas_Bloomberg_4392On 21stDecember 2018 the Government of England and Wales brought into force revisions to the Building Regulations aimed at preventing a repeat of the Grenfell Tragedy.  Unfortunately, the nature of the release of the Amendments, and the requirement for reader to insert information into the existing Building Regulation’s has led to some misinterpretation of the revised regulations (which have now been re-published in full).

What is clear is that the Government of England & Wales now require that materials which become part of an external wall, or specified attachment, are of European Classification A2-s1, d0 or A1, classified in accordance with BS EN 13501-1:2007+A1:2009 entitled “Fire classification of construction products and building elements” on high-rise buildings that contains flats, as well as hospitals, residential care premises and student accommodation above 18 metres. These products are widely referred to as ‘non-combustible’.

What is also clear is that the requirement for ‘non-combustible’ products does not extend to roofing systems as they are covered by a specific statement in regulation 7(3) Paragraph (2) does not apply to:

(b)any part of a roof (other than any part of a roof which falls within paragraph (iv) of regulation 2(6)) if that part is connected to an external wall’.
and
(g) membranes

ProTherm Rockface build upWhere the requirement for ‘non-combustible’ materials does apply is in regulation 2(6)(a)(iv) any part of a roof pitched at an angle of more than 70 degrees to the horizontal if that part of the roof adjoins a space within the building to which persons have access, but not access only for the purpose of carrying out repairs or maintenance;.  However, there remains a requirement for clarification of this statement, which the roofing sector is currently seeking from MHCLG as flexible roof waterproofing materials are not ‘non-combustible’.  They are manufactured to meet the relevant fire test standards contained in Approved Document B section B4 (BS 476-3 and BS EN 13501-5:2005+A1). The does not apply statement in regulation 7(3)(g) membranes would seem to confirm the waterproofing does not need to be ‘non-combustible’ but the other elements of the roofing system such as deck and insulation will need to be.

A second area requiring clarification is regulation 2(6)(b)(i) a balcony attached to an external wall;.  Traditional balcony construction projects from the building, as it is were an attachment to the external wall.  But modern construction includes for ‘balcony over balcony’ construction and ‘balcony over habitable space’ construction.  It is the general belief of the roofing sector that the requirement for ‘non-combustible’ material does impact ‘balcony over balcony’ construction, but that a ‘balcony over habitable space’ construction is not affected as it is actually a flat roof due to the requirement for waterproofing and insulation and is therefore covered under Approved Document B section B4.

The last area requiring clarification is regulation 2(6)(a)(ii) any decoration or other finish applied to any external (but not internal) surface forming part of the wall;.  Whilst it is clear that a flat roof is exempt from the non-combustible requirements of the regulations there remains a question about high parapet walls as they form the internal face of the external wall.  It is the belief of the author that the ‘non-combustible’ requirements of the regulations do apply to the detailing of the roof at this point and the insulation and substrate should meet European Classification A2-s1, d0 or A1.

A point of note in closing, in Scotland the Technical Handbooks change the height of building impacted by the regulation changes to those above 11 metres.

Glazing Vision Offers a Free Comprehensive Guide to Specifying Glass for Rooflights

Building Products Index Ltd Roofing, Rooflights Leave a Comment

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Mulroy_Uplands_14 copyThe development of glass manufacturing technology over the last 60 years has fed ambitious architectural uses of glass.

In turn, the increased consumption of glass by the construction industry has seen the development of new products and glass types.

 

The Hawthorns Pre-Prep SchoolTo help specifiers make the right decision, Glazing Vision has produced a comprehensive guide covering the use of glass in rooflights including:-

  • Types of glass
  • Performance
  • Thermal efficiency
  • Light transmission and solar gain
  • Building regulations and standards
  • Design and delivery
  • Operation and useful life

20181025_124628This is the latest in a series of whitepapers and guides provided by Glazing Vision, with more set to be published in the near future.

You can download Glazing Vision’s free Guide to Specifying Glass in Rooflights here.

OU8B3604

GLENDYNE NATURAL SLATES PROVIDE NEW ROOF FOR ST ALPHEGE CHURCH

Building Products Index Ltd Roofing, Tiles Leave a Comment

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St Alphege ChurchCembrit Glendyne natural slates have been specified and installed on a unique renovation project for the Historic Kent landmark, St Alphege Church. Recognised as the focal point of the high street, the Victorian Church brings history and character to the beautiful seaside town of Whitstable.

The original Victorian roof, built in 1845, had become a growing concern amongst the local community, which led many to worry about preserving the old church for future generations. To help raise money to fix therapidly ageing roof, the ‘Raise the Roof’ appeal was launched in the summer of 2014 and encompassed all kinds of fundraising events. By May 2017, the church had reached its target of £200,000 and was in a position to commence the vital repair work to protect the church’s historic ceiling.

Cembrit PR Shot (PR)Regularly entrusted with working in historic settings, Kent-based architect, Clague presented the planners with roofing samples to review. The architect initially put in an application for Spanish slates to replace the expensive Welsh slates, however after much evaluation, the conservation officer asked that they used Canadian natural slates instead.

Having worked with Cembrit many times in the past, the architect specified Glendyne natural slates. David Gullick from Clauge Architects comments: “We chose Glendyne for the project due to its consistency, aesthetic appearance and durability. The standard of these products, and the service that we received from Cembrit was second to none. The outcome of the roof is just what we desired.”

DJI_0009-EditGlendyne is a high-quality slate that combines first-class performance with all the inherent beauty of natural slate, making it the ideal ‘natural’ choice for specifiers and roofers. Available exclusively from Cembrit in the UK, Glendyne is a distinctive blue-grey colour. The Glendyne quarry is one of the most modern slate quarries in the world. The quarry operates a quality management system based on EN ISO 9001 which is externally audited. This standard is adhered to rigidly, as are all quality standard procedures required by each regional market the quarry supplies.

Glendyne is tested to BS EN European standard, BS EN 12326-1:2014 which requires many of the laboratory tests (‘type testing’) to be performed at least annually and the factory production control (FPC) performed and recorded as a matter of routine by the producer.

To watch a video on the project, visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KEe_5ew0p7o

Custom-made rooflights for custom-builds

Building Products Index Ltd Rooflights Leave a Comment

View the National Domelight Company on BPindex

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Orangery Solutions 2347_EDITEvery build project is unique. Tricky refurbishment job with exacting measurements? Need an innovative design with extra wow factor?

NDC supplies custom-made rooflights that are carefully tailored to meet your unique brief.

 

 

MASTER 978 X 600 Natural LightDo I need a standard or bespoke rooflight?

Standard units are perfect for many projects, but here are some considerations to see if a bespoke solution would work best for you…

 

 

4761 NDC Orangeries interior 5Size

Are you replacing a rooflight manufactured in imperial measurements? It may not be possible to find an exact metric conversion. A bespoke solution can help save costly additional modifications to the building’s design.

Or, does the style of the building necessitate an eye-catching design? Would a non-standard solution give the property the exclusivity and character sought after by the architect or homeowner?

Regulations

Continuously updating regulations mean a straightforward like-for-like replacement may no longer meet building regulations.

Other considerations

Custom solutions offer so much more choice – have you thought about the following options?

  • Colour coordination:Bespoke RAL colours match conservation area requirements, or allow for striking finishes that complement the design
  • NDC_Montage copyUpgraded glass: Improve privacy, reduce glare and combat solar gain with customised tints
  • Seamless finish:Adaptor kerbs and bespoke kerb heights allow for varied insulation levels and reduce unnecessary disturbance of roofing finishes
  • Improved ventilation:Rooflights with ventilation or smoke dispersal keep a property healthy and aerated, while adhering to building regulations
  • Stay secure:Add locking mechanisms to allow and prevent access when required
  • Reduce noise:Sound reduction requirements can be met with tailored solutions
  • Weighty decisions: Ensure your walk-on glass is suitable for its application, whether that’s domestic, commercial or industrial

 Think a bespoke solution is for you?

 NDC’s technical team can provide the right solution for your project and advise on industry policy and regulations, so you get it right first time and on budget.

We are open 8am – 5pm Monday to Friday; get in contact with our technical team:

Call: 01276 451555

Email: info@nationaldomes.com

Visit www.nationaldomes.com

 

Balconette’s Frameless Juliet Balconies

Building Products Index Ltd Balcony Systems Leave a Comment

View the Balconette entry on BPindex

Get an online price for a Frameless Juliet Balcony

Frameless Juliet 2
Balconette’s Frameless Glass Juliet Balconies comprise just a single sheet of glass with two slim, elegant side profiles. They are a highly aesthetic offering for a balcony guarding solution.

Frameless Juliette 3 Balcony - Frameless Juliet at Solihull - from inside

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balcony - Frameless Juliet at Solihull 2 - closeupUtilising 21.5mm laminated and toughened glass and offering 8 standard sizes that range in width from 1280mm to 3200mm with a 5-working-day manufacturing lead time, Balconette has designed an ideal solution for a Frameless Juliet Balcony. Custom sizes are also offered up to 3300mm, with a 30-day lead time.

A frequent request amongst architects, designers and customers, the end result is a stunning, beautifully designed product with absolutely zero obstruction from the inside that also complements any building from the outside.

New easy-to-install shower kit from Altro

Building Products Index Ltd cladding, Walls 1 Comment

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Picture of shower cubicle in modern toilet

The Altro Walls ShowerKit,is apre-packaged Altro Whiterock wall cladding system for shower, bath and ensuites that is easy to use, even in small areas.  It is an Altro Whiterock system with pre-cut wall sheets, ready to install over a sound, clean wall, including tiles.   It’s the ideal solution for wet environments.

Benefits:

  • Perfect for a quick and easy installation
  • Adhesive applied straight to a clean wall
  • Install over existing prepared surfaces – including tiles
  • No grout – makes cleaning easier
  • Trims and pre-cut sheets for ease of handling and use
  • Neat, discreet trims for a smooth, impervious installation
  • Impact resistant

Altro Walls ShowerKit contains all you need to install around a shower tray or a bath including wall sheets, adhesive, silicone sealant and trims.  It includes a step-by-step pictorial installation guide to create a water-resistant, durable and smooth surface with a 20-year guarantee.

It is available in White and five popular Altro Whiterock Satins shades.