2023 Recap: Celebrating Progress and Partnership at Addagrip Terraco

Building Products Index Ltd Resin Bound Surfacing Leave a Comment

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As we draw the curtain on 2023, it’s time to reflect on a year that has been pivotal for Addagrip Terraco. This past year has been one of significant expansion, sustainability initiatives, community engagement, and product innovation, all underpinned by the invaluable support of our team, partners, and contractors.

Welcoming Our New Team Members

This year, we were thrilled to welcome new talents to our team. Ben, as our Director of Sales and Marketing, has brought a dynamic approach to our sales and marketing strategies. Jamie and Lee, joining as Area Sales Managers, have significantly enhanced our client engagement across regions. Bertie, in his role as Marketing Executive, has injected creativity into our marketing initiatives, while Karen in Accounts has streamlined our financial operations with great efficiency. Glenn, our new addition in the Quotes department, has been pivotal in providing prompt and precise quotations to our clients. Each member has been instrumental in driving Addagrip Terraco’s growth.

Making Excellence More Accessible

In a landmark decision, we’ve reduced prices across our entire range, making our high-quality products more accessible to a wider audience. This move underscores our commitment to providing top-tier surfacing solutions at competitive prices.

Commitment to Sustainability: Electric Fleet and Eco-Friendly Products

Our dedication to sustainability took a significant leap in 2023. Transitioning to an electric car fleet marked a major step in reducing our environmental impact. Additionally, our continuous focus on developing sustainable products has further solidified our standing as a leader in eco-friendly surfacing solutions.

Introducing the Luxe Marble Range

A highlight of 2023 was the introduction of our Luxe Marble range. This new line features high-quality marble aggregate, offering a level of sophistication and quality that sets new standards in the industry. The Luxe Marble range, known for its exquisite finish and durability, represents our commitment to innovation and excellence in surfacing solutions.

Giving Back: A Charitable Project in Devon

This year also saw us giving back to the community through a heartfelt project in Devon. We transformed the driveway and backyard of a family with a disabled son using our Stonebound Castle Grey product. This project was not just about aesthetic improvement but making a real difference in the lives of the family, showcasing the impact of our work beyond business.

A Heartfelt Thanks to Our Partners and Contractors

The successes of 2023 could not have been achieved without the unwavering support and collaboration of our partners and contractors. Your expertise, commitment, and shared vision have been integral to our achievements. We are deeply grateful for your partnership and excited about the future prospects of our collaboration.

Looking Forward with Anticipation

As we step into 2024, we do so with a sense of gratitude and excitement. The past year has laid a strong foundation for future growth, innovation, and success. We are eagerly looking forward to building on this momentum, embracing new challenges, and continuing our journey towards sustainable and innovative surfacing solutions.

From the entire team at Addagrip Terraco, thank you for a phenomenal 2023. We are excited about the future and ready to embark on another year of excellence, partnership, and progress.

The Advantages of ProBead Render Beads: A Superior Choice for Construction Projects

Building Products Index Ltd Render Beads Leave a Comment

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In the world of construction and architectural design, attention to detail and precision are paramount. One key element that contributes to achieving a polished and professional finish in plastering and rendering projects is the choice of render beads. Among the various options available, ProBead render beads stand out as an exceptional choice. In this article, we delve into the reasons why ProBead is often considered the best render bead for construction projects.

Uncompromising Quality:

SAS Render System’s ProBead has earned a reputation for delivering unbeatable quality in its render beads. Crafted from 100% recycled PVCu materials and manufactured with precision, ProBead products undergo rigorous testing to ensure they meet the highest industry standards. This dedication to quality means that ProBead rendering beads offer exceptional durability, longevity, and performance.

Innovative Design:

One of the standout features of ProBead render beads is their innovative design. ProBead continually invests in research and development to create products that address the evolving needs of the construction industry. This dedication to innovation has led to the creation of rendering beads that not only serve their functional purpose but also contribute to the aesthetics of a project with an extensive colour range. ProBead offers a wide range of bead profiles, including decorative and architectural options, to achieve distinctive finishes.

Ease of Installation:

SAS Render Systems understands that time is of the essence in construction projects. That’s why their render beads are designed with ease of installation in mind. Featuring user-friendly profiles and precise dimensions, ProBead products fit seamlessly into the construction process. Contractors and builders appreciate the efficiency that comes with working with rendering beads that are designed for straight-forward and hassle-free installation.

Versatility in Application:

From corner beads and stop beads to bellcast beads and more, ProBead offers a comprehensive range of rendering beads to suit various applications. Whether you’re working on exterior corners, interior transitions, or architectural features, SAS Render Systems has a product that fits the bill. This versatility allows construction professionals to find the perfect render bead for any project.

Optimal Performance:

ProBead rendering beads are engineered to enhance the overall performance of plastering and rendering systems. These beads contribute to the structural integrity of the finished surface, preventing cracks and chips. Additionally, ProBead’s attention to detail ensures that its products create straight, clean edges, leading to a polished final appearance that meets the highest standards of craftsmanship.

Durability and Longevity:

In the realm of construction, durability is non-negotiable. ProBead render beads are built to withstand changing environmental conditions and maintain their integrity over time. Their resistance to wear, impact, and weathering ensures that the finished project retains its pristine appearance for years to come, minimising the need for repairs or replacements.

Industry Recognition:

SAS Render System’s commitment to ProBead excellence has earned recognition and respect within the construction industry. Architects, contractors, and builders have come to rely on ProBead render beads for their projects, knowing that they are choosing a product backed by a reputation for quality and performance, complete with a 25-year guarantee and BBA certification.

When it comes to render beads, ProBead stands as a leading choice that offers unparalleled quality, innovative design, ease of installation, versatility, optimal performance, durability, and industry recognition. By selecting ProBead rendering beads, construction professionals can elevate their projects to new heights of excellence, achieving results that exceed expectations and leave a lasting impression.

Speak to the SAS Technical Team today at 01647 24620 to discuss what beads are best for your project. Want to see top quality for yourself? Order free bead samples here. 

Why FOG management should be a high priority for commercial building design

Building Products Index Ltd Drainage, FOG Management System Leave a Comment

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Systems for managing fats, oils and grease (FOG) must be considered for the design of commercial buildings that contain commercial kitchens. To ensure the smooth delivery of commercial building projects FOG management needs to be part of the specification. The location, type and capacity of the system needs to be taken into account, along with several other factors. Here Erik Mul, Technical Product Manager from ACO’s Building Drainage division discusses FOG management for commercial buildings.

The increase of FOG in the UK sewer network is a considerable problem for buildings that contain commercial kitchens and UK water companies. Fatbergs regularly make the headlines, even though legislation is in place intended to prevent these enormous blockages. In extreme situations, fatbergs have been known to reach as much as 400 tonnes in weight – approximately the mass of four blue whales. These are made of waste products that have been incorrectly disposed of in drains or down sinks, that bind together in the sewer, eventually becoming solid and extremely difficult to shift. It is FOG which holds fatbergs together, showing just how important it is to have correct systems in place to handle the disposal of these kitchen cooking byproducts.

Without suitable disposal methods, problems can occur in the sewers that can get backed up into homes and businesses, sewage and wastewater can cause flooding, and those responsible for the blockages can be held financially liable. Water companies are enforcing rules more than in the past due to growing environmental concerns. They are also being stricter about prosecuting those who don’t meet legal standards. Due to these reasons, some new-build commercial projects are being denied a water connection until a FOG management system is in place. In some cases, restaurants and pubs have faced significant fines due to their lack of proper FOG management.

Location, location, location

Due to the need for ongoing maintenance, access to the FOG management system must be factored in at the design stage to ensure the optimal location is chosen. Systems installed below sewer level should either have a lifting station where the separated wastewater is gathered, or a sump where all the building’s wastewater is collected before pumping it out to the sewer.

In situations like this, ACO generally recommends the use of lifting stations in commercial buildings rather than backflow preventers, as this ensures wastewater is still pumped to the sewer during a backflow event. In smaller establishments it is unlikely that large units will fit within the kitchen so external or smaller units would need to be considered – not forgetting maintenance access.

Choosing the right system for your project

There are four main types of management systems to be aware of when it comes to dealing with FOG. These include grease separators, grease traps, grease recovery units (GRU), and bio-chemical direct dosing units. Grease traps, GRUs and separators make use of gravity to separate FOG, enabling it to be retrieved for disposal or use elsewhere, such as biofuel. The bio-chemical dosing systems partially emulsify greasy wastewater, allowing it to pass through the system. While each approach has its merits, some systems are more appropriate than others, depending on a number of factors impacting the kitchen it will be used in. The most effective system will be one that is selected specifically for the individual building and its kitchens.

Grease separators are most commonly used in large commercial buildings. They comply with BS EN 1825 and prevent most FOG deposits from entering sewer systems and have to be emptied at least once per month – either manually or automatically, depending on the model installed. Choosing these units is done by looking at the following: number of meals per day produced in the kitchens, kitchen operating hours and the space internally or externally to site a separator. How the unit will be emptied – manually or via vacuum tanker – is also an important factor, along with the access needed for installation, commissioning and maintenance (considering if the ideal site is in the basement down lots of narrow corridors or underground in a car park, etc.). Smaller kitchens may use a grease trap fitted underneath a sink where they cater for lower volumes of meals per day.

Grease recovery units come in two types: active and passive. Active units skim FOG, using rotating oleophilic drums whereas passive units use wastewater flow/pressure within the unit to move FOG into a separate container. The passive units are often heated to keep the FOG in a liquid state for easier disposal. Generally, these systems are tested to the American standard ASME 112.14.3 and 4.

There are also two kinds of bio-chemical dosing for FOG management. One uses enzymes to emulsify FOG and water prior to it entering a sewer, and the other uses bacteria to consume the FOG and release water and carbon-dioxide. The micro-organisms used in these systems are highly sensitive to their surroundings and don’t always survive long enough to be effective. In cases where FOG had been emulsified, it can still resolidify and lead to blockages further down the line.

Reasons for the regulations

The goal of FOG-related legislation is to protect public sewers as they are a vital part of infrastructure. Section 111 of the Water Industry Act 1991 states that it is an offence to impair any public sewer’s operation.[1] With the build-up of FOG considered a hazard likely to impair a sewer, it is an offence for commercial kitchens to discharge FOG improperly. Local authorities or water companies may take legal action, those responsible can face prosecution and the businesses might end up paying the costs for damage caused, including in cases where a FOG blockage causes flooding.

There are also laws in place geared towards preventing pollution from FOG. According to the Environmental Protection Act (EPA) 1990, it is illegal to dispose of FOG in a manner likely to cause pollution of the environment or harm to human health.[2] Commercial kitchens have the legal responsibility to ensure the collection and disposal of FOG or risk prosecution.

Don’t get lost in the FOG, speak to the experts

The right management and disposal of FOG is a vital part of protecting the environment from pollution, keeping fatbergs from damaging sewers, and helping kitchens run safely and smoothly without risks of prosecution and punishment. While there may be some who think that FOG management is unglamourous, it is still extremely important to the long-term running of commercial kitchens, whether that be a small café or a large hotel restaurant serving several hundred people every day.

Some water companies are becoming firmer with their rulings and refusing to connect establishments that do not have proper FOG management systems in place. To avoid this, consulting with drainage experts, such as those at ACO Building Drainage, from the early design stages will ensure all requirements and legislation are met. With their knowledge and experience, the process of identifying the right type of system for the kitchen can be done with the confidence that it will meet all relevant guidelines and regulations.

For more on fats, oils and grease management, see ACO.co.uk.

[1] https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1991/56/part/IV/chapter/II/crossheading/provisions-protecting-sewerage-system?view=plain

[2] https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1990/43/section/75

Meet Arron Crisp, Technical Specification Manager for Eurocell

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

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Arron Crisp recently joined Eurocell as a Technical Specification Manager. Learn more about the value he adds to projects, providing technical design and specification support to Specifiers.   

Arron joined Eurocell early 2023, bringing over 30 years’ experience in windows and doors through various positions. Now, a Technical Specification Manager, Arron is a crucial point of contact at Eurocell both internally and externally, to support not only our network of fabricators and installers, but also provide technical design and specification support to Specifiers and main contractors on commercial projects.

A technical specification role requires a high level of both product knowledge and construction industry process understanding. Arron talks about his background “Early in my career I was employed in a multi-disciplined architectural design team, which covered all types of building projects from regeneration to new developments. The role meant that I was involved in site surveys, inspections and detailed design – a number of different touch points throughout the construction process.”

Arron explains “By giving a fresh pair of eyes on the challenges that window and door manufacturers, fabricators and installers are experiencing, I am able to support with being solutions focussed to increase our opportunities within the sector. A key part of my role is ensuring we are up to date with current regulations and proposed regulation changes across the construction industry, creating relationships with Specifiers to support with design at early stages to design out future issues and retain specifications. Through the delivery of face-to-face CPD’s, I impart crucial knowledge to Specifiers covering diverse subjects such as legislation, sustainable architecture and value engineering.”

This solution focussed approach forms part of project and specification pre-qualifications, alongside regulatory and compliance checks, is driving value both internally and within the network, with key Commercial Installers sharing positive feedback with this level of technical support as part of the process.

Steve Carvell from commercial glazing specialists Nu Openings commented “The technical support we are now able to achieve from Arron has certainly improved our standing with our current and new clients, as you are aware PVC-U is moving more into the commercial field. Architects want to ensure when converting from aluminium to PVC-U that this can be achieved both technically and aesthetically. Arron has provided this by means of his ability to provide technical drawings quickly, along with his knowledge of the product and market, which in the past has been hard to obtain from the trade fabricators we currently purchase from.”

Ben Friend from Allglass Anglia building solution experts said “Arron has assisted Allglass Anglia in a number of technical responses with Eurocell products and specifications on projects.  His understanding and knowledge of compliance, regulations, Eurocell products and building experience makes him a highly valued member of the team at Eurocell and too Allglass. This has added a good support and knowledge base to our capabilities in securing new projects with some new clients commercially.”

Arron says “As a building product, windows and doors are among the most legislated items in the industry. They appear in multiple areas of the various parts of the Building Regulations and some of these conflict, which means we have to manage prioritisation with the design team. The biggest challenge in my role is that The Building Regulations are under constant review, so ensuring that I am on top of these regulatory changes, and able to communicate them internally and externally, is a continuous element of my position.”

Kelly Hibbert, Head of Commercial Sales at Eurocell added “It’s imperative that we provide the right support to our network of fabricators and Specifiers in the commercial sector, whilst being innovative in our approach.  Arron is placed perfectly for this with a wealth of experience and detailed knowledge of the industry. His time in the construction sector means he’s able to work collaboratively at all levels to ensure we remain focussed on creating solutions and retaining specifications to continue to lead Eurocell positively within the Commercial Sector.  Our dynamic approach to growth will ultimately support our partner networks to grow with us, as we continue to support them on the challenges they face.”

For more information about the specification support we offer, please contact Arron Crisp, arron.crisp@eurocell.co.uk, 07702 811435.

Managing the interface between buildings with structural glass

Building Products Index Ltd Glass Leave a Comment

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Structural glass specialists Ion Glass discuss why a bespoke glass linkway is often the best solution, especially with heritage and listed buildings

Linking older or heritage buildings with a modern extension can cause a number of problems: current building techniques are very different from those used in the past and some heritage organisations and planners often stipulate a visual separation between old and new.

The bespoke structural glass linkways built by Ion Glass create an interface between buildings of different ages and styles, providing an effective physical and visual divide.

  • A linkway can be constructed from channel set glass panels with minimal footings, overcoming issues relating to disparate foundations and building techniques.
  • The glass linkway will allow for some movement between two buildings of different ages and structure.
  • Specifying either single or double glazing allows a choice between a simple weather resistant glass corridor or an integral element of the building, fully compliant with heat loss requirements.
  • Use of structural glass fins or beams can achieve a minimal result without visible fixings
  • Ion Glass technicians will assist with design and specification to ensure the optimum result, meeting all requirements for you or your client.

Each Ion Glass linkway is individually designed, manufactured and installed to meet the precise requirements of the client.  Check out these projects:

A glass linkway makes a separate extension an integral part of the property:

A modern family room extension was linked to an original listed heritage building with a structural glass linkway.  Use of glass beams in the construction gives an exceptionally stylish and contemporary result with minimal fixings, meeting all the requirements of both building control and  listed property approval. A glass door in the structure opens onto the terrace, making this an effective porch space as well as a link between the two structures.

This suspended glass linkway with a non-slip glass floor connects the original heritage building with a new extension.  Ion Glass installed the linkway at first floor level to overcome locational differences in height and to allow a continous ground-level walkway around the house with access to the garden.

Linking two buildings to create a congruent living space

A recent barn conversion developed a number of farm buildings around a central courtyard to create a luxurious living space.  The deceptively simple L-shaped structural glass linkway Ion designed and installed is made from double-glazed panels to make it an integral element of the home, retaining warmth as well maximising the light.

Custom glass linkway facilitates commercial expansion

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A firm of London solicitors expanded into the building next door and required a substantial structural glass link with maximum light flow for the new reception and meeting space. Ion Glass installed a series of double-glazed glass roof panels combined with double-height glass panels at either end and huge structural glass windows to add to the feeling of light and space.

A glass linkway can provide an effective option for modern homes too!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The passageway between the house and the garage on this modern property was previously a draughty wind tunnel.  Ion Glass enclosed it with a glass linkway to create a weatherproof space without the need for additional footings.

Take a look on our website for inspiration on many other reasons to choose Ion Glass for your residential, commercial, heritage or ecclesiastical project.

 Our expert team will discuss your individual requirements and provide a full technical support and installation service whether you are managing a project for a church or heritage building or commissioning structural glass for leisure, residential, or commercial properties.

For more information on glass linkways, glass doors,  glass screens, internal or external balustrades,  structural glass porches,   or other architectural glass installations call us on 0345 658 9988,  send us an email via info@ionglass.co.uk or click on the enquiry form on our website.

The Leading Experts in High-Profile Listed and Historic Building Waterproofing Projects

Building Products Index Ltd Waterproof Membranes, waterproofing Leave a Comment

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Listed and Historic Building Waterproofing Project Video

Written by Warren Muschialli

When it comes to high-profile waterproofing projects, Newton Waterproofing is the name that stands out. With our extensive range of products as well as our history and expertise, we have become the go-to company for waterproofing solutions in both commercial and domestic properties across the UK.

Whether it’s a new-build project or an existing structure, we have the perfect solution to tackle any size of project, with the ability and know-how to meet the complexity of listed building requirements making us the ideal choice for preserving historical structures while providing effective waterproofing solutions.

We can provide waterproofing systems and solutions that are ideally suited for meeting listed building requirements and have been used to treat properties such as the British Museum, the Royal Courts of Justice, and the Houses of Parliament.

Fire Resistant Tunnel Waterproofing at the British Museum

Earlier this year we worked on a project to address water ingress in the tunnels beneath the Grade 1 listed King Edward VII Galleries, part of the British Museum complex in London.

The water ingress was causing concern about the quality of air supplied to the gallery, so Newton collaborated with Arti Structural Waterproofing and Oldroyd to develop a unique membrane system that would protect against both water ingress and fire. This allowed the tunnels to be reinstated as the primary air supply to the galleries, with the team proposing a system that met all requirements for waterproofing and fireproofing a Grade 1 listed building.

The solution involved cleaning and repairing the tunnel walls and floors before installing the flexible, cement-based HydroCoat 107 Elastic 2K as a primary Type A barrier, sealing any existing leaks where a Type C system was not feasible. Following this, the unique Oldroyd Xtf membrane provided a full Type C cavity drain membrane system to the walls and floors – cavity drain membrane systems are widely accepted in listed structures due to their maintainability and reversibility.

The Oldroyd Xtf membrane used in this project is exclusive to Newton and produced by specialist manufacturer Oldroyd in Norway using environmentally friendly raw materials. It is also tested according to the EN 13501-1:2007+A1:2009 standard for fire classification of construction products and building elements, achieving a B-s2.d0 fire rating.

Additionally, CDM 520 eco Floor was used beneath the floor build-up, providing maximum drainage capacity to the pumping system for any ingressing water.

The project faced challenges such as high humidity levels and the prospect of fitting fire-rated membranes in extremely constrained spaces, all while ensuring effective installation around existing services which could not be removed.

Despite these challenges, Newton and Arti completed the project successfully over ten weeks, delivering a waterproof, fireproof, and maintainable solution. The client now has a system that meets their requirements and will be regularly serviced by Arti Structural Waterproofing.

Waterproofing the Royal Courts of Justice

Newton Specialist Basement Contractor Stonehouse were tasked with waterproofing the Judges’ Robe Rooms in the below-ground vaults at the Grade 1 listed Royal Courts of Justice to create a Grade 3 habitable space. This project followed their successful waterproofing of the vaulted bird beak Victorian arches in the same building.

To waterproof the intricate vaulted areas, Stonehouse installed a full Type C waterproofing system utilising Newton CDM 508 Mesh membrane, which required careful detailing and expertise to ensure proper installation. The membrane was carefully lapped, sealed and fixed using different specialist plugs depending on whether the membrane was applied to the vault spring and above, or on the vertical plane.

The Newton CDM System is our Type C water management system that captures and diverts any water ingress down to the BaseDrain drainage channels for safe removal away from the property. For this project, a direct plaster finish was applied onto the meshed membrane for a high-quality finish in keeping with the structure’s listed status.

The result of Stonehouse’s installation was the creation of a Grade 3, completely dry and habitable internal environment, ensuring that it would be suitable for its intended purpose.

The installation also conformed to Listed Building requirements by designing a maintainable and reversible system that also retained the building’s unique design characteristics.

Waterproofing the Houses of Parliament

Newton Waterproofing was chosen to provide a waterproofing solution for the Houses of Parliament in London. The project required both external and internal waterproofing systems, as well as a polyurea roofing system.

Our self-healing HydroBond 403 Plus membrane was used externally to provide a waterproof barrier around the new-build basement extension to the iconic Grade 1 listed London landmark. Internally, our CDM 508 and CDM 520 membranes were applied from floor to ceiling as part of the Newton CDM System for providing a full cavity drainage solution.

The finished structure also received a polyurea coating and additional drainage membrane on the roof deck of the basement.

The result is a fully compliant and guaranteed waterproof basement that provides durable protection against water ingress through the combination of multiple types of waterproofing.

The Leading Experts in Waterproofing Solutions

The Newton team has proven time and again that we are the leading experts in waterproofing solutions for high-profile projects.

Our extensive range of products and expertise make us the go-to company for both commercial and domestic properties across the UK, and with our ability to meet the complexity of listed building requirements, we have successfully preserved historical structures while providing effective waterproofing solutions.

How Can Newton Waterproofing Help You?

We are dedicated to providing high-quality waterproofing services throughout the UK, and our team of experienced professionals and specialist contractors have the expertise to tackle even the most challenging projects. We adhere to industry standards and use proven methods, ensuring long-lasting results and peace of mind, so contact us today to get started.

 

A masonry solution to meet the MMC demand

Building Products Index Ltd Blocks, Concrete Leave a Comment

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H+H Vertical Wall Panels represent a masonry MMC solution that provides the speed of offsite with the familiarity of a traditional build. Offering the ability to construct a complete house shell in just five days, these storey-high panels of aircrete are used to form the inner leaf of external walls, separating walls and internal partitions.

Fabricated offsite, the panels are craned into place for an accelerated construction process that retains the reassuring characteristics of a high-performance masonry build.

On site, Vertical Wall Panels are placed onto standard foundations and installed using H+H VWP mortar – a fast-setting and very strong mortar that forms a 2mm airtight joint.

The overriding advantage of Vertical Wall Panels is the speed of build – and this is best demonstrated where the panels are used as part of a complete housebuilding package.

When combined with prefabricated timber floors and a prefabricated roof system, Vertical Wall Panels provide a system-build solution that can construct the superstructure of a house from foundation to roof within five days onsite.

This provides a watertight and airtight shell for follow on trades to move into, and one which is constructed using a material they are familiar with so no additional training is required for site workers.

Offering flexibility and durability

Aircrete is a lightweight masonry material, combining proven durability and high acoustic, thermal and airtight performance with the ease of use that comes with a lighter material making it easy to cut and work with.

H+H Vertical Wall Panels are manufactured in a range of heights with a width of 600mm and a thickness of 100mm. As aircrete can be cut on site, it is easy to accommodate window and door openings while providing infill sections as appropriate. This also gives the flexibility needed to adjust panels to cope with site tolerances and onsite modifications and means less product waste on site.

Tried, tested and proven

Building with H+H Vertical Wall Panels is not a new solution. In fact, the system has already been widely used across Europe for years and over 2,000 houses have been completed so far in the UK.

It is also an established Modern Method of Construction recognised by the NHBC. The system is part of the NHBC Accepts scheme which recognises innovative building systems that have been rigorously tested to meet the construction body’s stringent standards.

H+H Vertical Wall Panels combine the cost benefits associated with offsite construction with the reassuring familiarity and performance of masonry, offering an MMC system that will stand the test of time.

To find out more about the system visit: https://www.hhcelcon.co.uk/products-applications/methods-modern-mmc/system-build-vertical-wall-panels

Paint partnership for latest office-to -flats conversion

Building Products Index Ltd Mineral Silicate Paint, Paint Leave a Comment

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Fairfax House, located in the Arena Quarter of inner-city Leeds is the latest building to undergo a complete renovation, converting a no-longer needed office space into residential accommodation. The 1960’s, seven storey office block, will be transformed into 154 studio and one-bedroomed apartments, with an additional two- storey extension.

Recent fire safety and building regulations insist that relevant buildings above 11m require that only non combustible materials are used on their exterior. It’s no surprise therefore that KEIM Mineral Paints, which conform to these most stringent standards, were specified by Colbre Projects to be used as the exterior paint on Fairfax House.

Paul Milligan, Business Development Manager at KEIM UK helps to explain, ‘We have been involved with various housing associations and councils as awareness of our fire resistant paint becomes more prominent. Our KEIM Soldalit exterior paint meets the A2-s1,d0 fire resistance standard, and this is just one of the properties which make our products ideal for residential buildings and wholly unique. Not only are all of our products made from natural mineral ingredients, they are also breathable, non-toxic, low VOC, and most relevant for Fairfax House, fire resistant.’

It made sense for KEIM to work with a specialist architectural spray-painting company, ORS Limited, that had the knowledge and capabilities needed for such a tall and prestigious project.

Original Surface

KEIM Soldalit applied

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jo Thornicroft, Sales Director at ORS Limited explains, ‘We have completed over 400 site rollouts for customers including Habitat, BMW, and Next providing retail shop fronts, cladding and curtain walling. The Fairfax House project utilises our vast architectural spray-painting experience. This application technique ensures that the KEIM Soldalit is applied evenly, and effectively. Imagine painting a seven-storey building! This method is far more time efficient, and therefore better for the building, and the client, to reduce application time and minimise disturbance.’

The project which started in April 2023, is due for completion at the end of this year and uses the combined skills of Leeds based buy to let property company YPP, and Brewster Bye Architects.

KEIM Mineral Paints Limited – https://www.keim.com/en-gb/

Soldalit product information – https://www.keim.com/en-gb/products/exterior-paints/soldalit/

ORS Limited – https://orservices.co.uk/

The constant reliable solution on the ever changing showering market

Building Products Index Ltd Tile backer boards Leave a Comment

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Inevitably as sustainable requirements within the construction sector rise, waterproofing of wet areas is also facing stricter regulation. Rising issues and failures across shower, wet room and bathroom POD installations with water ingress and leaks, prompted NHBC to issue the technical guidance 9.2/06 in the area of substrates for tiling with special attention to tanking systems used beneath tiles. Providing unrivalled peace of mind for everyone involved, wedi has an array of products to meet this new guidance.

wedi is certified: wedi products satisfy the construction guidelines and regulations that are valid in England, Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland. As part of the ARDEX family, the manufacturer can offer not only 100% waterproof and loadbearing XPS tilebacker boards and shower systems with all required certifications (CE, UKCA, UKNI, BBA, EPD, VOC A+) but also, compatible adhesives and grouts for direct tiling without the need of additional waterproofing.

wedi is modular: products are designed to interlock with one another and work with clever accessories in order to truly complete the waterproofing of the installation, forming the well-known wedi system.

wedi is comprehensive: whatever the project is – renovation or new build, stud or block, wood or concrete, wet room, bathroom or wellness – a multitude of suitable wedi products offer a full system solution that provide the same assurances from the floor to the ceiling.

wedi is fundamental: wedi substructures provide basic requirements such as 100% watertightness without the need for additional tanking, excellent thermal insulation (0.036W/mK) and vertical weight load capability (133kgs/m2) whilst creating enduring value as a result.

wedi is versatile: even with the most far-sighted planning, the unexpected can happen. The versatility and customisable nature of wedi products allows for subsequent changes with little effort.

wedi is guaranteed: insulating, decoupling, cladding, sealing, constructing, designing – whatever the requirement wedi has the solution – a whole bathroom from a single source with a 10 year quality guarantee and a 100% watertight finish.

wedi is effortless: wedi’s premium quality product range characterised by its diversity, simplicity and reliability saves time, cost and labour whilst also cutting back on risks associated with additional installation steps.

wedi’s technical support service is outstanding: on-site support and training for qualifying projects is also available.

For perfect compliance with sustainable requirements, choose wedi’s comprehensive waterproofing system marked to EAD 030437-00-0503. PLAN GREEN THINK BLUE – KNOW YOUR XPS!

Email enquiries@wedi.co.uk

Choose your perfect interior filler

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Interior renovation can involve a number of jobs, and to get the best results it’s vital you pick the best fillers for each kind of work you’re faced with. But how do you assess what you need?

It all starts with an evaluation of your site. What kind of surfaces will you be working with? Holes, gaps and cracks all need filling, but what kind of finish are you looking to achieve? Are you working with a bare surface or a painted one? Is it made of plaster? Concrete? Is it textured? Assessing this will allow you to better select the products you need, whether it’s for filling, skimming, fine finishing or a combination of different work. Just remember that a filler designed for a specific purpose will always give you the best results. All-purpose fillers are popular amongst DIYers, but we all know the saying about a jack of all trades…

Equally important is how you choose to work. Having the right filler for the right job doesn’t mean you have a lack of choice. Perhaps you favour the convenience of a ready to use filler or prefer the satisfaction and added benefits of mixing it yourself. If time is of the essence, you might be keen to use a fast-drying filler.

Ready to use fillers are appreciated for their convenience, though take longer to dry than powder fillers. Yet, specially formulated ready to use fillers for smoothing or fine finishing are often appreciated for their unlimited open time, meaning you’re not time-limited in your application. Powder fillers, meanwhile, typically have a working time of 30-40 minutes before they begin to harden, though they are capable of filling to any depth and do not shrink or slump.

Fast drying fillers can also be found in both powder and ready to use form. Toupret’s Quick Dry Filler, for example is a powder filler that’s ready to paint in 3 hours, whilst Quick Fill is a lightweight, ready mixed filler that can be painted in as little as 30 minutes. Once again, however, it’s all down to your job needs as well as your preference.

As the trend in the use of plasterboard in developments and renovation continues to grow, options for taping, jointing and finishing your plasterboard are also increasing to cater to every jobsite demand. Manual options include fillers certified for jointing plasterboard in both powder and ready to use form, quick drying solutions to help you meet that looming completion date, or ready mixed compounds designed with unlimited working times for covering larger areas while minimising waste and mixing time.

Time, money and effort savings reach a new level with a filler that can be machine applied. Airless spray plastering is a relatively new technology in the UK that uses a high-pressure machine, much like a paint sprayer, to force specially formulated filler (or ‘plaster’) onto a surface for use as a jointing, levelling or finishing compound. The system allows you to cover a far greater area faster than doing the work by hand, meaning you can finish the job quicker, economising on labour and cost.

Toupret offers an extensive range of interior fillers for filling and repairs, skimming, levelling and finishing, as well as plasterboard jointing and finishing solutions and fillers for use with airless machines.

Head on over to toupret.co.uk  or the Toupret mobile app to try out their easy selection and comparison tools – compare up to 5 products that interest you and find the perfect one for your job.