Airless spray plaster for a better finish, fast!

Building Products Index Ltd September 28, 2020 Plaster 3 Comments

Toupret prides itself on its history and experience, but always looks forward when it comes to developing and finessing products. This allows Toupret to produce the very finest products for today’s construction and decorating industry needs, including the outstanding AIRSPRAY spray on plaster range – a series of pre-mixed high-tech finishes for use with any type of Airless machine and ready to use straight from the pack.

These high standard jointing and finishing coats draw on the brand’s 80-plus years of product development, allowing them to marry knowledge and experience with progress and technology. AIRSPRAY products produce fine, first-time finishes with speed, efficiency and reduced mess and spillages. This makes them the complete solution for new-builds and redecoration alike, having been developed with partners in the sector.

As more specifiers and decorators realise the value of airless machine-sprayed plastering, the system is showing its worth on sites more and more. Speed of application in large projects is a game-changer and can drastically lower labour costs. Reduced waste means efficiencies in product usage and added comfort for users in any environment also make for happy sites and happier end clients.

AIRSPRAY G is a professional grade, ready-to-use high-build backing plaster with a bright white finish that gets the job underway fast. Right from the 25kg bag, it has excellent levelling characteristics and makes the perfect preparatory substrate base coat on uneven surfaces, before application of a finishing coat. It’s also easy to sand and finish.

The versatile AIRSPRAY 2 IN 1 is a levelling and skimming product that combines the stability of a backing plaster with the smoothness of a skim coat. This fine, white product can be sprayed straight from the 25kg bucket with no mixing. It is a great all-rounder, bringing quality alongside that flexibility, to provide you with a waste-free finish.

AIRSPRAY J is a fine finishing compound that can be used as a perfect top coat for AIRSPRAY G or AIRSPRAY 2 IN 1. The fine and smooth finish is also CE approved for plasterboard jointing and helps to speed up sanding on a job. It comes in a 25kg bucket.

Toupret can provide demonstrations and on-site guidance for these products, as well as bespoke training from our technical team. AIRSPRAY products and the rest of the Toupret range are widely available from leading building and decorators’ merchants across the UK.

For further information on the full Toupret range, see www.toupret.co.uk.

CS Expansion Joint Cover CPD Now Accredited by CPD UK and available on Demand

Building Products Index Ltd September 28, 2020 Uncategorized Leave a Comment

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CS are excited to announce that our Expansion Joint Cover Specification CPD Presentation is now available to watch on demand, and has been accredited by CPD UK.

The main focus of this presentation is for the attendee to gain an understanding of how to specify the right expansion joint cover for the building’s use.

This seminar aims to cover:

What expansion joints are and why they are required
What an expansion joint cover is and its function within a building
Expressing building movement in various ways
The different types of expansion joint covers available
Factors that influence selection of an expansion joint cover
How to specify

To watch the CPD on demand please click here or to book an in person or webinar version for you and your team please email cpd@c-sgroup.co.uk or call 01296 794302

Smart WiFi tech – bridging the gap

Building Products Index Ltd September 28, 2020 WIFI Accessories Leave a Comment

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Timeguard has introduced a range of Smart Wifi Accessories covering everything from hard-wired smart wall sockets to ‘out-of-the-box’ plug-in controls.

The thinking behind the WiFi Accessories range is that countless ”me too” DIY gadgets have opened customers eyes to the possibilities of smart control, but also showed them all the downfalls. People are ready for professional help and for branded quality and reliability. No-one wants the hassle that comes along with poor quality, inadequate specification and instructions, and lacklustre support.

Timeguard and Tuya Smart – Worlds leading IoT Platform

The Timeguard development team chose the proven Tuya Smart IoT (Internet of Things) platform for control of its WiFi Accessories range of Wi-Fi controlled devices. Tuya works with Alexa and Google Assistant and the free app enables consumers to control all of their smart home devices from a single app, as well as any of the other 90,000 compatible products from other manufacturers.

Not all Tuya devices are equal of course – it all depends what functionality manufacturers decide to build in to their devices and what control to offer users. While the processes for tailoring the Tuya app and getting devices approved is quite robust, a quick Internet search will tell you that some device manufacturers have confused and disappointed end users, and that branded quality will have growing value. With Timeguard you know for sure that genuine Tuya chips have been used, and that good support (from online videos to real people at the end of the phone line) is provided

Tuya also takes the longer view: it’s going to be around for a long time, just like Timeguard, and is ready for other technologies. Just to remind you: Bluetooth, generally used for data transfer from, say, mobile phones to nearby PCs or speakers over a range of 10m or less, and ZigBee, a lower-power wireless protocol mesh system ideal for continuous monitoring applications like as smart alarm systems. However, WiFi devices can connect to an existing network hub or router, which means that a PC doesn’t have to be left on to access a remote device like a camera or switches. It’s ideal for most home control applications.

What’s in the Timeguard WiFi Accessories range?

As ever, the Timeguard approach has been to look at the market, see what devices are available, and then apply lateral thinking to make them do more, and do it better! The Timeguard WiFi Accessories range includes:

Indoor camera

The Timeguard difference: Highly-specified with high-resolution two-way audio, night vision, detection masking, and complete with a USB power supply adaptor, these cameras will get the job done. The choice of SD storage or easy upload to subscription based cloud storage.

Doorbell with chime

The Timeguard difference: Wait for someone to press the bell or be notified as they approach the built-in PIR detector. Everything you need to get set up is supplied – you’d be surprised how many Wi-Fi doorbells come without a chime! Multiple chimes can be connected, and they plug in to any 13A socket. The doorbell has reliable, Panasonic-branded batteries and is easily recharged via its USB cable when needed (a single charge should last for four months.

Plug In timer adapter

The Timeguard difference: Small but mighty, these 13a (3kW) adaptors offer daily or weekly programming as well as countdown timing and overload protection. Power monitoring lets users see at a glance how much power a connected device is using. These are timers you can trust.

3-way trailing socket with 2 USB

The Timeguard difference: Pretty much all you need in a single device! Users can time and control each socket individually. Manual over-ride is built in.

Bayonet lamp holder adapter

The Timeguard difference: At last a lamp holder adaptor that will hold a standard BC/B22 bayonet lamp. Naturally daily/weekly and countdown timing are also provided by Timeguard.

Twin socket

The Timeguard difference: These 13A (3kW) sockets for professional installation also provided a handy USB port. Daily and weekly timing programmes and countdown timing are offered via the app, with each socket under individual control.

10A in-Line connector

The Timeguard difference: The functionality of the in-line adaptor is much the same as other products in the range. The big difference is that Timeguard actually thought of what installers need. Want to automate an existing luminaire? Just wire this in and pop it through the ceiling aperture or in-line with power cord of an appliance.

So there you are: everything you need to supply smart home control that you and your customers can trust. Check out the range at your wholesaler or visit www.timeguard.com

Staying safe: The successful specification of roof ladders

Building Products Index Ltd September 28, 2020 Uncategorized 1 Comment

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According to the latest RIDDOR Report, 111 workers were killed between 2019/20, with the largest proportion of fatal accidents being a fall from height.

The appropriate provision of ladders is essential to ensuring the safety of all individuals, particularly with regard to roof access, and must be addressed at the initial stages of a building’s design to ensure long-term suitability and fulfilment regarding duty of care.

Here Tony Stevens, Technical Estimator for Bilco UK, explores the key factors professionals should consider when looking to specify roof ladders for upcoming projects and how to ensure compliance with the legislation outlined in Approved Document K.

Ladder location and usage

The first considerations that must be addressed when specifying a ladder to gain roof access is where the ladder will be mounted and the requirement of any additional safety elements to ensure the safety of the individual at all times when the product is in use.

If a ladder is to be mounted externally to gain access to a roof, it must be fitted with a safety cage and guard rail to ensure safe and secure access.

Where frequent access to the roof area is required for maintenance personnel, tools and equipment, a companionway roof hatch like the CS-50TB, which is a larger elongated access hatch, should be chosen.

The companionway ladder is a 75 degree angled, rigid ladder, which provides permanent access to a roof hatch of up to 2440mm.

For a small roof access hatch, such as the Bilco E-50TB, which has internal dimensions of 915mm x 915mm, a fixed vertical ladder should be specified. In this instance a retractable ladder would not be recommended, as the ladder angle would hinder easy access as an individual moved closer to the hatch.

However, retractable ladders are ideal for use in areas including schools and hospitals where the roof hatch is bigger in size and the floor area must remain clear at all times. The ladders can be mounted above a ceiling and are compatible with additional vertical backboards that include steps and a handrail for enhanced safety and security and have a maximum size of 1500mm. Dependent on each project’s specific requirements, the ladder can also be supplied with fire rating to meet relevant building regulations.

If access to the roof area via a smoke ventilator is required, such as the Bilco ESW-50REM, a retractable ladder is not appropriate. The construction and mechanisms of a retractable ladder would prevent the flow of smoke through the vent, making this style of ladder unsuitable for safe and clear access. A fixed vertical ladder is the only recommended style to use in conjunction with a smoke ventilator due to the small footprint.

Ladder height and suitability

When specifying a retractable ladder, it is essential that you know the height of the space between the ceiling and the roof, more commonly known as the roof void. This is to ensure the ladder box liner will fit inside the space once retracted.

Calculating the height of the floor to the underside of the roof access hatch should also be done at the initial stages to ensure the ladder isn’t too short or long. It may seem obvious, but this is an area that is commonly overlooked!

Importance of collaboration

There are a range of elements that must be addressed when specifying ladders, particularly when gaining access to a roof. To ensure compliance with all relevant legislation and to ensure the long-term safety of individuals when using the ladder, it is vital that all considerations are sufficiently addressed at the initial stages of a building project.

By working closely with manufacturers and taking a proactive approach, professionals can ensure the ladders specified are not only fit for purpose, but safely and successfully meet the unique requirements of each development.

For further information on Bilco UK’s complete range of roof access solutions, visit www.bilcouk.co.uk or call 01284 701696.

Schöck Isokorb for seafront Passive House Award Winner

Building Products Index Ltd September 28, 2020 Thermal Breaks Leave a Comment

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Seaton Beach Apartments in Devon is the first UK multi-residential development to be certified as passive house plus. Some claim that passive house standard is easier to achieve with simpler, box-like forms, resulting in finished buildings being aesthetically limited – but this is certainly not the case here. A little design ingenuity and the use of Schöck Isokorb thermal breaks, has enabled generous sea-facing balconies with sweeping curves to create a striking finish.

Seaton may be a traditional Devon seaside resort town, but there is nothing traditional about the eye-catching new passive house development right on the seafront. Seaton Beach Apartments is an innovative, award-winning, new development of seven luxury two-bedroom beachfront apartments, complete with a three bedroom penthouse – and is the first multi-residential development in the UK to be certified as passive house plus. Which means it is not only able to meet the ultra-low energy fabric requirement, but also generates renewable energy. The project can also boast ‘best sustainable residential development in the UK’ from the International Property Awards.

Initially though, the original architectural design was not to passive house standard. However, the developer recognised that the south-facing orientation and form factor would make it possible to reach the necessary standard. Architects Gale and Snowden, who have helped stimulate the trend for larger scale passive house projects in the region, were brought in at this point to develop the initial detailed designs and oversee the construction. The ground floor is concrete, with a monolithic clay block construction used from the first to third floors and timber frame for the penthouse. Combined with high-performance external render and internal plaster, the result is an entirely mineral hygroscopic wall build-up, which helps to regulate humidity and provide a healthy and comfortable internal environment.

Uses 90% less energy than a typical new build

Other features of the construction include low electromagnetic field wiring arrangements and a highly efficient mechanical ventilation system with heat recovery. Complete with an exhaust air heat pump for hot water supply. An array of PV panels on the roof yield an annual 14,234 kWh, resulting in the building generating more energy than it uses. There is a constant supply of silently circulated filtered fresh air within the triple glazed, airtight construction. And 90 per cent less energy used than in a typical new build. All factors which have contributed to the building achieving the stringent passive house plus target.

Passive house standard is easier to achieve with simpler, box-like forms and finished buildings are often considered aesthetically limited and rather prosaic. However, with Seaton Beach Apartments, a little design ingenuity and the use of Schöck Isokorb thermally broken balcony connectors defies this notion. The potentially unexciting building now features large sea-facing balconies with generous curves. The detailing of these balconies is critical though, if thermal bridging is to be minimised and the building’s energy performance not compromised.

The Isokorb is a technically advanced solution

Schöck Isokorb thermal breaks are installed where the balconies meet the clay block structure, as ineffectual insulation at these cantilever connectivity points will result in local heat loss. This means more energy is required to maintain the building’s internal temperature. Low internal surface temperatures around the thermal bridge can also cause condensation, leading to structural integrity problems with absorbent insulation products and the potentially serious occurrence of mould growth. The Schöck Isokorb is one of the most technically advanced countermeasures against thermal bridging. It not only thermally separates components from one another, but acts in a structural design capacity as well. The product type used here has an innovative HTE Compact compression module made of high-density micro-fibre reinforced concrete and transfers both negative moments and positive shear forces with cantilever balconies, or positive field moments combined with shear forces.

Enormous freedom of design

As the leading international supplier of structural thermal breaks, Schöck is able to offer planners complete construction dependability and almost limitless freedom of design with the options available in its Isokorb product range. There are solutions for concrete-to-concrete, concrete-to-steel, steel-to-steel, a thermally insulating connection for reinforced concrete walls – and even a maintenance free alternative to wrapped parapets. The temperature factor used to indicate condensation risk (fRSI) which must be greater than, or equal to, 0.75 for residential buildings, is easily met by incorporating the Isokorb. All products meet full compliance with the relevant UK building regulations and the NHBC. They also offer LABC Registration and have independent BBA Certification.

For a free copy of the Schöck Thermal Bridging Guide; the Schöck Specifiers Guide or to view the range of downloadable software, contact Schöck on 01865 290 890 or visit the website at www.schoeck.co.uk

Rawson Carpet Solutions attain Constructionline Gold Member status

Building Products Index Ltd September 28, 2020 Carpets Leave a Comment

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DASH

Dash Tile is one of the newer additions to the Rawson range. Designed and constructed for the office and education markets. The tiles are exceptionally durable and are supplied in a series of eye catching yet subtle colourways which add to the pleasing nature of the space. Heavy contract use means Dash Tile is ideal for schools, colleges, offices and other busy public areas.

EXPLORE DASH

EUROCORD

Eurocord is a heavy contract carpet sheet or tile with a great heritage. This durable fine ribbed product has become the benchmark for the contract carpet market in education and public buildings. A new wide range of colours offer ideal styling options for the creative mind. A practical and hard wearing floor solutions that delivers. By far the best seller for the education and retail sectors.

EXPLORE EUROCORD

JAZZ

A Heavy Contract loop pile carpet tile available in 24 distinct colourways. The range is vast and includes great colour, stripes and gradient lines which work well together and alongside other ranges. A popular solution for the Education and Office environment and a range that satisfies most theme aspirations.

EXPLORE JAZZ

DOMINATOR

Dominator is a Heavy duty primary entrance flooring solution. With multiple heights and a specific shoe cleaning purpose, this product has proved its effectiveness across a diverse range of installations. This floor will protect your buildings interior floor coverings. The diagonal patterning allows for cleaning of shoes whatever the direction.

EXPLORE DOMINATOR

RIVEN

Riven is a statement floor, personalised and flowing.

Slate, shale, Concrete and Graphite, with 2 ply construction are shades which alone, or combined can give the feel of nature’s materials as matching yarns run through each colour. Moss, Rock, Brook and stone are offered with colour, natural expression and individuality.

Here is a range that gives choice and design freedom. Each colour sits beautifully alone or blend riven’stextured design with other matching product colour ranges.

Multi loop textured design in a quality nylon yarn. Available in tile or plank. A deep and luxurious tile for your space.

EXPLORE RIVEN

SIGNAL

Signal is a Nylon multi loop patterned carpet tile, laid boardloom, tessellated or brickbond, the product range allows for a multitude of design and a pleasing pattern to you space. The range is BRE +A rated and class 33 for all commercial environments.

EXPLORE SIGNAL

HEWI Universal Products

Building Products Index Ltd July 28, 2020 bathroom accessories Leave a Comment

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HEWI | Hotel

All HEWI systems are based on the design principle of reduction down to the essential. The high-quality accessories for the areas vanity unit, shower and toilet in a minimalist design perfectly integrate into any hotel bathroom.

A wide range of materials and distinctive looks offer countless design options. Besides accessories, the range also includes accessible furnishing solutions and fittings.

System 900

System 900 offers a matching overall concept for sophisticated hotel bathrooms or homes. System 900 impresses in a wide range of areas of use and property types. Numerous awards prove that System 900 is the answer to the complex requirements of accessible bathrooms.

The design details reflect the sophistication of a concept. System 900 combined functionality and excellent design with durable, long-lasting quality, which creates added value.

New matching accessories are now available for the System 900 range, for example practical toilet roll holders with a cover or a shelf, new towel rails or toilet brush sets in stainless steel, chrome or with a powder-coated finish in white, shades of grey and black.

Universal products

In addition, numerous universal products, from waste bins, make-up mirrors and bath towel shelves to hairdryers or shower handsets ensure that everything can be obtained from one source.

A complete membrane offering for fire safety in the building envelope:

Building Products Index Ltd July 28, 2020 Membranes 1 Comment

View the DuPont™ Tyvek® entry on BPindex

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New DuPont™ AirGuard® A2 FR joins DuPont™ Tyvek® FireCurb® Housewrap to create an advanced solution that exceeds regulations

Safety is a core value at DuPont. Innovative solutions and materials specifically addressing fire safety have been developed by DuPont for over 50 years. In the construction industry, DuPont™ Tyvek® is a pioneer when it comes to fire safety in building membranes, introducing its Tyvek® FireCurb® Housewrap breather membrane in 2013.

As building regulations rapidly and appropriately catch up since the Grenfell tragedy in London – and as most fires begin inside buildings – DuPont has also been working hard to develop an airtight and vapour control layer for the internal walls and ceilings in its high performance AirGuard® range to offer similarly advanced, non-toxic, fire-resistance with proven efficacy.

Now architects, developers, planners and building control officers can have confidence in a complete membrane and tape solution for durably enhanced fire safety, in both the exterior and the interior fabric of a building. While Tyvek® FireCurb® Housewrap forms a weather-protective, vapour-open lining behind ventilated facades, new DuPont™ AirGuard® A2 FR AVCL brings benefits for energy-saving, moisture management, air quality and climatic comfort to the building interior, together with its added fire-retardant function.

Tyvek® FireCurb® Housewrap utilises DuPont patented self-extinguishing technology, as when flames meet the membrane they stop, die down and then go out. The halogen-free coating limits the propagation of flames and the formation of droplets, reduces smoke and makes a very limited contribution to any fire.

DuPont™ AirGuard® A2 FR airtight and vapour control layer (AVCL) is truly fire-retardant and has been independently classified with a Class A2 rating. Along with Tyvek® 2060M Metallised Tape, DuPont now offers a complete membrane and sealing tape system with certified A2 classification. These products provide exceptional fire safety that even surpasses existing regulations.

However, as with all systems – be they intended for fire safety or airtightness – correct installation and the sealing of all laps, junctions and penetrations is crucial. In addition to airtightness and vapour control, properly taped systems also help to reduce smoke penetration, which tends to be responsible for more casualties than the flames themselves.

In order to give assurance that such a complete system is ‘fire-safe’, a full test that includes the sealing tape has recently been conducted to EN 13501 at the Prufinstitut Hoch (Classification Report, KB-Hoch-200148, 4th March 2020.) DuPont also offers clear and comprehensive technical guidance and support to ensure its products perform as designed.

New DuPont™ AirGuard® A2 FR fire-retardant air and vapour control layer (AVCL) is designed for use within the internal wall system behind finishes such as dry-lining and is compatible with a variety of materials from mineral wool to gypsum plasterboard and cement particleboard – and is suitable for all building types, sizes and locations.

As well as offering its fire retardant properties, it maintains all the advantages inherent in the AirGuard® Reflective range in terms of thermal performance, with its low emissivity surface, 100% airtightness and W1 water tightness, together with high vapour resistance to limit interstitial condensation – and furthermore it is suitable for areas of high humidity.

Whether for application in a bungalow, a high-rise structure or a key public building, these robust membranes and their associated accessories offer not only reliable performance, easy installation and full regulatory compliance, but a vital investment in greater safety – both during and after installation. In achieving a combination of improved energy-efficiency and the protection of both people and property, the products can deliver long term peace of mind for building designers, constructors, owners and occupants alike.

About Tyvek® FireCurb® Housewrap and DuPont™ AirGuard® A2 FR

These ground-breaking versions of the renowned DuPont building membrane range have additional and superior flame retardant performance. Tyvek® FireCurb® Housewrap uses innovative technology to reduce the flammability of polymer based substrates to decrease the risk of fire spreading through the external and internal envelope. Rather than using halogens, the technology employs a phosphorous-containing agent that forms a ‘char’ layer at the surface when it is in contact with an ignition source. This thin layer of carbonized polymer is highly flame retardant and forms a barrier, slowing the release of flammable materials. Starved of fuel, the flame spreads over the membrane more slowly or not at all and if the membrane ultimately caught fire, it produces less smoke, another vital advantage for safety. Rigorously tested, Tyvek® FireCurb® has a fire rating of class B-s1,d0 according to EN13501-1. DuPont™ AirGuard® A2 FR combines a lacquered low emissivity foil, laminated to a glass fibre mesh and is classified for reaction to fire as A2-s1,d0 to EN 13501-1: 2007+A1:2009. Full system classification: DuPont™ AirGuard® A2 FR AVCL plus Tyvek® 2060M tape.

The new fire retardant DuPont™ AirGuard® A2 FR AVCL

About DuPont™ Tyvek® & DuPont Building Membranes and Products: DuPont™ Tyvek® advanced building membranes are unique in the market due to their high-quality single layer construction. Tyvek® breather membranes, in all their specialised versions, are naturally vapour open but also durably wind and water-tight. Lightweight yet robust, it is easy to install and offers long-term, proven reliability. Designed to protect the building envelope against the effects of weather and moisture, this family of membranes also offers optimal air-tightness and water holdout and can help to improve the thermal performance, energy-efficiency, interior climatic stability, and in the case of Tyvek® FireCurb® and DuPont™ AirGuard® A2 FR, enhanced safety.

Tyvek® is also designed to work as part of a holistic and optimal system with a range of other proven DuPont products for the building envelope, including the DuPont™ Tyvek® AirGuard® advanced AVCL series, the highly versatile Tyvek® FlexWrap air and water sealing tape, plus other specialised tapes and sealants. All DuPont building products come with the renowned service, expertise and technical back-up of a world-class science company.

About DuPont Safety & Construction

DuPont Safety & Construction is a global leader in delivering innovation for life’s essential needs in water, shelter and safety; enabling its customers to win through unique capabilities, global scale and iconic brands including Corian®, Kevlar®, Nomex®, Tyvek®, GreatStuff™ and Insta-Stik™.

About DuPont

DuPont (NYSE: DD) is a global innovation leader with technology-based materials, ingredients and solutions that help transform industries and everyday life. Our employees apply diverse science and expertise to help customers advance their best ideas and deliver essential innovations in key markets including electronics, transportation, construction, water, health and wellness, food, and worker safety. More information can be found at www.dupont.com/.

For more information about DuPont™ Tyvek® and AirGuard® or technical advice, please contact the DuPont™ Tyvek® Building Knowledge Centre in Bristol, UK. Email: Tyvek.construction@dupont.com or telephone 0117 970 9454/9455.

For Sales enquiries, contact us by phone on 0117 970 9456 or via our website’s Contact Us page www.building.dupont.co.uk

Opening the door to flood resilient buildings

Building Products Index Ltd July 28, 2020 Garage Doors Leave a Comment

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Garage doors from Rundum Meir which are designed to cope comfortably with regular flood events can help building owners and architects to upgrade their buildings in water-side locations to make them more flood resilient as the UK climate changes.

According to the Met Office, the UK’s weather is set to change in a way that will result in increased rainfall in winter and more extreme weather events, such as heavy downpours, throughout the year. Hence, the need to adopt a ‘flood resilience’ mindset for buildings in flood-prone areas has never been more pressing.

It is an approach that means rethinking every aspect of a building’s design to ensure it is not severely damaged in the event of a flood and able to recover quickly afterwards without great financial loss. And this includes the design of the garage or ground level storage spaces, which are often the worst affected parts of a property during floods. Watertight, flood resistant garage doors that are designed to prevent water ingress can be extremely useful, but flood resilient doors will often provide a better solution.

Take boathouses, for example, which are home to rowing clubs across the country. Because of the obvious need for easy access to the water, their close proximity makes them particularly vulnerable when the river level rises and trying to make them flood-proof is a constant and financially expensive battle. For this reason, the Michael Baker Boathouse of The King’s School in Worcester on the River Severn was designed to sit comfortably in its context with lower levels actually designed to flood, which is why it incorporates a large flood resilient door by Rundum Meir.

Its custom-made Rundum Original side sliding door sits below a boat shaped cantilevered prow that points towards the River Severn – one of the defining features of this RIBA award-winning building designed by Associated Architects. Providing a clear opening of 3.8 m wide x 3 m tall and manufactured from industrial strength extruded aluminium laths, the door provides easy access to the boathouse at the water level.

When the river tops its banks after heavy rainfall upstream, floodwater is allowed to enter the boat store through the door, rather than trying to keep it out. And when the level recedes, the boat house can dry out and return to use quickly, with the German-engineered Rundum Original sliding door operating normally once again as if the flood never happened.

Danesch Missaghian, owner manager at Rundum Meir (UK) said: “The Michael Baker Boathouse project typifies outstanding flood resilient design and demonstrates how a Rundum Meir garage door can provide a dependable long term access solution. Every door is designed specifically for the project, so we can ensure the materials and operating mechanism are able to withstand the demands of regular exposure to floodwater.”

In addition to flood resilient doors like the one at the Michael Baker Boathouse, we also offer watertight up and over doors for projects where additional flood protection is required.

All Rundum Meir garage doors are custom designed in the UK, manufactured in Germany and assembled in the UK, using the highest quality materials such as solid timber and tough extruded aluminium – which can be insulated. Architects in the UK, across Europe and in the USA benefit from its specialist design advice and expert technical support to help turn design concepts into reality.

To find out more visit www.rundumgaragedoors.co.uk or call 0151 280 6626.

Shouting from the tree tops: The benefits of tree pits

Building Products Index Ltd July 28, 2020 access covers Leave a Comment

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The specification of trees within an urban area can provide many benefits, including improving inhabitants’ mental and physical wellbeing, to filtering urban pollutants and aiding the offset of carbon emissions.

However, the planting of trees within landscaped or paved exterior public spaces can also present a range of potential complications that must be considered at the very initial design stages. Here Chris George, Business Development Manager at Howe Green, explores the wide ranging benefits tree pits and tree grilles offer and the key elements specifiers should consider.

Whilst the planting of trees in urban location can contribute to the reduction of the city or town’s carbon footprint, it is essential any trees or saplings are planted within the provision of a healthy and secure environment.

This will ensure the successful nurture and facilitation of the trees’ long term growth, with adequate root management, access to water and the condition of the soil all essential elements that must be considered.

External tree pits and tree grilles present a popular choice as they can successfully alleviate the potentially negative effects an urban environment can have on a living organism, whilst simultaneously providing inconspicuous access to electrics, valves, pumps and water features.

Tree pits and tree grilles also prevent any potential damage to the urban environment as the tree roots are securely managed within the tree root ball. This eliminates the opportunity for the roots to spread up and across the landscape, where they could cause damage to the flooring and present a dangerous trip hazard.

When specifying tree pit covers for upcoming landscaping projects, professionals should consider solutions manufactured of stainless steel as they provide long term resistance to rust and corrosion. The addition of a top edge seal also prevents dirt, grout or grinding waste ingress for increased longevity and resilience. This style of tree pit also aims to eliminate the requirement for slither cuts of stone, which often leads to recurrent and often costly breakages.

However, the structural integrity and design of a stainless steel tree pit shouldn’t hinder safe access to the tree root ball. Here, specifiers should consider solutions that utilise lifting keys, facilitating easy ongoing maintenance of the tree root ball without any additional budget, time or resources.

As each urban landscaping project is different from the next, so too must be the approach to the tree pits or tree grilles installed. Custom made specifications will best meet the specific requirements of each individual project, rather than a standard ‘off the shelf’ offering. A bespoke offering will also ensure the type of stone used and the modules or pattern formations featured within the hard landscaping are seamlessly integrated into the covers, providing the highest quality finish available.

The orientation of the tree pits, whether single, multiple or in a duct formation, should be adapted to meet the bespoke requirements of the project, providing a desired visual style without impacting on the long term growth and success of the trees.

Tree grilles also offer the opportunity for the installation of electrical elements such as up lighters, creating an enhanced visual effect. If using tree grilles, stone thickness must also be considered, whilst load bearing for both grilles and pits must be addressed at the specification stage. For example, will the solutions be installed in a high footfall pedestrian area, or will there be vehicles regularly travelling through? This is essential to ensuring the solution is fit for purpose throughout the duration of its lifetime.

By working closely with a manufacturer from the very initial specification stages, landscaping professionals can not only achieve the successful implementation of trees into hard landscaped areas, but ensure their long term growth and maintenance whilst achieving the desired visual aesthetic.

For further information on Howe Green’s complete range of tree pit covers and tree grilles, visit www.howegreen.com or call 01920 463230.

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→