The sky is the limit with Bilco UK’s SKY Flatglass smoke vent

Building Products Index Ltd March 25, 2020 access covers, Rooflights, Smoke Ventilation Leave a Comment

Bilco UK is supporting specifiers, architects, engineers and facilities managers in achieving the highest standards in safety, efficiency and aesthetics with the launch of its new SKY Flatglass smoke vent.

The innovative product, which can be installed on flat roofs across a wide range of commercial and residential building types, offers professionals a diverse ‘three in one’ solution, as it can be utilised as a smoke vent, roof access hatch and rooflight.

Suitable for installation on new build developments or retrofitted onto existing projects, the CE marked smoke vent can be wired into the Building Management System to provide a fully compliant solution that will automatically open in the event of a fire or smoke.

The SKY Flatglass is fully compliant with all relevant building regulations outlined in Approved Document B and is tested to BS EN 12101-2 to support professionals in achieving constant compliance in line with latest legislations.

Unlike many competitor products that use polycarbonate, the smoke vent features a single leaf flat glass sliding cover, offering a functional yet aesthetic approach to natural smoke ventilation, particularly for exposed areas where a hinged opening may not be suitable.

The streamlined flat glass enables the smoke vent to also be utilised as a rooflight, flooding interior spaces with natural light. When used in conjunction with a fixed ladder, it can also be utilised as a roof access hatch, opening to 180 for safe and secure access.

The latest range has been tested for impact resistance, meeting standard BS EN 1873: 2014 Class SB1200. This is achieved through its innovative construction, which features a top layer of toughened glass, spacer filled with 90% argon and a low-E laminated glass layer. This is combined with a lightweight external white powdered coated aluminium frame and internal frame of reinforced PVC.

Every element of the SKY Flatglass’ construction has been developed with thermal efficiency in mind. This includes a polyester upstand that is fully insulated for weathertightness and an inner layer of low-emissivity (Low-E) glass that reflects infrared and ultraviolet light from inside the building.

This prevents the light from escaping, without minimising the level of light that enters, controlling the high thermal performance of the product, while simultaneously maintaining an attractive design. An optional third layer of glass, which can also be solar control glass, can be specified upon request.

The standard size of the new SKY Flatglass smoke vent is 1000 mm x 1500 mm, which provides a 1m² clear vent area. Bilco UK is also able to offer this product in special sizes to meet individual specification requirements. This includes optional motors and upstands, which are available upon request by contacting its team of inhouse designers, engineers and technical estimators.

James Fisher, Managing Director of Bilco UK, which is part of the Access 360 division of ERA, said: “Our new SKY Flatglass sets the standard within the industry for safety, thermal performance and efficiency. It demonstrates our continued investment in product development, as part of our wider commitment to providing the highest quality smoke ventilation and access solutions to professionals serving and maintaining the built environment.

“We look forward to working with our clients over the coming months throughout the specification and delivery stages to introduce our new SKY Flatglass smoke vent and the wide range of benefits it has to offer.”

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

Creativity from Schöck at new Greenwich Design District

Building Products Index Ltd March 25, 2020 Structural thermal breaks Leave a Comment

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The O2 Arena on the Greenwich Peninsula has a new neighbour – Greenwich Design District – providing 14,000sqm of affordable studios and workshops for creatives working across areas as diverse as design, fashion, art, music and digital technology. This pedestrianised, vibrant neighbourhood, comprises sixteen free-standing buildings, situated around five courtyards and a central public square. With the exception of the single level Food Hall, the buildings range in height from three-to-five levels and are a mix of reinforced concrete, structural steel and cross-laminated timber.

Minimising thermal bridging is crucial

Improved thermal performance is becoming increasingly important in large new build developments and the prevention of thermal bridging has a huge role to play. Ineffectual insulation at cantilever connectivity points results in local heat loss, requiring more energy 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

Design freedom from Schöck

As the leading international supplier of structural thermal breaks, Schöck has hundreds of variants in its Isokorb range, offering a solution to practically any design detail. The predominating Isokorb at the Design District is for concrete-to-concrete, but not all of the requirements were so relatively straightforward. Building C1 is a prime example. Set on the east side of the main entrance, this three-level workshop and studio building has a basketball court on the roof. It has unusually deep floor zones, several large cantilevered elements and a steel mesh enclosure supported on a braced-steel frame around the court, which utilises Isokorb elements for concrete-to-steel detailing. There is also an external staircase and concrete cantilevered walkway. Where the walkway encloses the staircase, there are particularly large cantilevers and here the walkway slabs, supported by a main beam, enclose cast-in steel beams and three cross-beams. These are bolted back to the structural slabs using Isokorb units for steel-to-steel construction and steel construction-to-concrete slabs.

Large capacity thermal breaks required

Building D1 is a community of studios, workshops and office spaces, which structurally consists of robust concrete slabs – with trees located on the external decks. Some extremely large capacity structural thermal break elements were developed to take the loads. Other buildings that incorporate Schöck Isokorb solutions are A1; which marks the main access to the Design District. D4, with its tall slim facade; and A4 on the western edge of the site, which welcomes visitors with a large roof-mounted illuminated sign.

Totally verifiable performance

The comprehensive Schöck Isokorb range enables concrete-to-concrete, steel–to-steel and concrete-to-steel detailing. And there are solutions too that provide a maintenance-free alternative to wrapped parapets; along with a product which thermally insulates connections for reinforced concrete walls and columns. Products meet full compliance with the relevant UK building regulations, have NHBC approval and offer LABC Registration. There is also the security of 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

Meeting UK energy efficiency targets with Eurobrick

Building Products Index Ltd March 25, 2020 Cladding Leave a Comment

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The BBC recently reported that nearly two thirds of UK homes fail to meet long-term energy efficiency targets, with more than 12 million homes falling below the C grade on Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs).

Due to the amount of older housing stock in the UK, built before 1990, experts say retrofit measures are needed to address the situation if we are to meet the 2050 net zero carbon target, which was made law in June 2019.

There are many UK companies that can help with retrofit solutions, providing a number of different cladding options. However, much of the UK’s older housing stock is traditionally brick built and while rendered options can be a solution, it is not always desirable. A brick finish is synonymous with British housing, and is often the preference of many if not a requirement for local planning.

Eurobrick has been leading the retrofit brick slip cladding market for 30 years. They offer two external wall insulation systems – X-Clad and V-Clad. The backer panels used for both these systems are excellent insulators and have proven to save energy and reduce heating bills. Both panels have a BRE Green Guide Rating of A and can be supplied in a range of thicknesses up to 100mm to help meet the energy saving targets of a project. X-Clad has been independently certified by the British Board of Agrément (BBA) and is LABC (Local Authority Building Control) registered.

These systems can include a brick or stone finish and can be retrofitted directly to an existing masonry wall. Eurobrick provide a wide range of finishes, as well as mortar and tools to help with application and are able to offer advice on choosing or sourcing the right brick slips for your project.

Thermal images

Before installation of Eurobrick’s X-Clad system

This 1930’s house in Wilford, Nottingham, is a good example of much of the housing stock in the UK. With solid brick walls it was poorly insulated and, as you can see from the thermal images, it was losing a significant amount of heat through the walls.

After installation of Eurobrick’s X-Clad system, using a majority of 75mm thickness insulation panels, you can see a definite improvement in the heat loss. The owners of the house reported that they benefitted from reducing their energy bills by one third following the installation, as well as reducing condensation significantly and providing an overall improved living environment.

After installation of Eurobrick’s X-clad system

The homeowners chose Rustic Red Charcoal multi with a detail band of Smooth Anthracite, from Eurobrick’s Britannia Range and the brickwork was pointed using a mid grey mortar. They were thrilled with the energy saving results, the fact that they were able to live in the house as normal while the work was carried out, and that following a property valuation, the rejuvenated exterior had added kerb appeal and value to the property too.

Brick slip cladding provides an excellent solution to help UK homes meet energy efficiency targets as well as providing a facelift for some of the country’s aging housing stock.

The Annual People’s Choice Award from the Houzz Community Highlights Home Renovation and Design Professionals with Most Popular Designs and Top Ratings

Building Products Index Ltd March 25, 2020 Steel, Windows Leave a Comment

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The world’s leading supplier of steel windows and doors was chosen by the millions of homeowners that comprise the Houzz community from among more than 2.5 million active home building, renovation and design industry professionals.

Crittall will be highlighted on the Houzz website and app. Also, a “Best Of Houzz 2020” badge will appear on winners’ profiles as a sign of their commitment to excellence.

The Best Of Houzz badge is awarded annually, in three categories: Design, Customer Service and Photography. Design awards honour professionals whose work was the most popular among the Houzz community.

“This year’s Best Of Houzz awards go to an incredibly talented and service-oriented group of home renovation and design professionals, and we’re proud to highlight the winners on the Houzz website and app,” said Inés Cid, Managing Director for Houzz UK. “This award is particularly meaningful as it reflects the sentiment of the millions of homeowners in the Houzz community who are hiring home professionals for their projects across the UK and around the world.”

Russell Ager, managing director at Crittall Windows comments: “Crittall is delighted to have received this prestigious award. We pioneered the original, iconic steel window frame over 170 years ago and are proud that Crittall was chosen by so many homeowners in the Houzz community who are hiring home professionals for their projects across the UK and globally.”

Follow Crittall Windows on Houzz https://www.houzz.co.uk/professionals/windows-and-glazing/crittall-windows-limited-pfvwgb-pf~92448061

Albany launch innovative new range of brushes and rollers

Building Products Index Ltd March 23, 2020 Brushes and rollers, Paint Leave a Comment

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To tie in with their 100 year celebration, Albany are bringing out some exciting changes to their brush and roller range, launching this February!

Albany will expand and improve their already highly successful range of products, with a focus on improving sustainability.

“We are working with a progressive manufacturer, who very much aligns with Brewers’ values” said Elaine Christenson, leading the launch “This new partnership will afford us some great opportunities to introduce a number of innovations both now and in the future, and be much more adaptable in building our range for customers.”

Six new brushes introduced
Block, angled, stubby, sash, lining fitch and round fitch brushes join the range.

…plus a new dusting brush
A new dusting brush has been introduced – in a unique style not currently offered by other leading brands.

Fully synthetic brush filaments
The complete range has moved to synthetic filaments, with different types and designs for each brush, meaning there’ll be a brush to suit all customers – even those who still like a natural bristle.

Improved wallpaper hanging brush design
Filaments are fixed via a loop method rather than traditional resin fixing, meaning it’s more eco-friendly and less likely to lose filaments.

Additional roller sizes and fabrics
Key lines are now available in widths up to 18 inches for contractors, and extra fabric types have been introduced.

Improved roller frames
An adjustable frame for 12- to 18-inch rollers has been introduced.
Plastic bearings are fitted to the 9-inch roller frame – making it more durable and less likely to jam or skid in use.

Deeper roller trays
Designed to hold more. Bespoke liners are also available for the 4-inch and 9-inch trays.

Bespoke roller handle design
Available on all rollers up to 12 inches, this handle design has soft touch sections for greater comfort in use and is threaded to fix to a suitable extension pole.

Eco-friendly brush packaging
A number of brushes will now have a closed-wallet laminated card, which is reusable.

‘Seal and save’ roller packaging
All rollers will have ‘seal and save’ packaging, a high-quality reusable bag which can be used to store wet rollers between jobs or overnight.

Reduced plastic on roller sets
There is reduced plastic packaging on roller sets, with products heat sealed on the top rather than fully bagged.

The full range is available in all Brewers stores from February
Stores will be celebrating the launch with promotions during March and April – watch this space!

New EJOT Guides review Best Practice for installation of self-drilling fasteners

Building Products Index Ltd March 23, 2020 Fastening Systems Leave a Comment

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From contractor to installer, whoever is purchasing building fasteners from within the project chain is linked to the overall investment of the complete building system. Modern technical fastening products are engineered components in their own right and when installed correctly they provide high strength load performance, safe and secure joints, environmental longevity and many other application benefits.

The demands that go hand in hand with today’s construction industry require manufacturers of all contributing components to be vigilant, knowledgeable and fully transparent. As original fastening manufacturers EJOT is in a strong position to monitor such technical demands. Research and Development is key and with EJOT’s global market interests spanning sectors such as aerospace, automotive, seismic and nuclear construction, cross-pollination of technical knowledge can and has created cutting-edge solutions for many building and construction fastening products.

If knowledge is the cornerstone to specification, sharing knowledge is of course the responsibility of the manufacturer. With reference to the correct deployment of technical fasteners, ‘best practice’ also implies the need for contractors to see the entire installation process through, yet this can break down if everyone actively involved in the chain is not fully aware of the technical properties that a modern fastener is engineered to deliver.

Seeing first-hand such varying levels of technical awareness, EJOT UK has produced the first in a new series of video and printed guides. Here, the company’s technical wing ‘EJOT Applitec’, reviews best installation practices relating to self-drilling fasteners. The Yorkshire based manufacturer is keen to convey how vast choice of drive tools through to installation techniques can affect the end result and how combinations of torque, loading and installation speeds are absolutely vital.

For example, market-wide installation tools range from dry-lining guns through to impact drivers which are all compact and relatively inexpensive. Yet unlike professional screw guns, the general mechanics of these devices will often mean they can apply an unnecessary and uncontrollable amount of torque to fasteners that need to be installed to precise settings. Many of these tools have no clutch mechanism to safeguard against over-driving and whilst it may be possible to achieve a correctly installed fastener using such drivers, at best the installer is doing so by ‘guesswork’ – which simply cannot be relied upon across the installation of several thousand fasteners. The same concerns apply across the huge variety of fasteners and applications that the industry now demands. The clear risk here is that the original construction investment is at best diluted, with reputations and overall responsibilities in sharp focus should performance integrity be lost.

The guide also illustrates how to achieve correct settings that relate directly to the different type of the materials being joined, the easiest way to achieve and determine successful application, and finally how to monitor safe and correct installation throughout the project’s schedule.

Brian Mack is Technical Business Development Manager for EJOT in the UK:

“The information we are producing here shows that we don’t just sell fastening products. The responsibility goes much further than that and we are working alongside other manufacturers to develop responsible technical information that supplements in greater detail the contributions we make collectively, to information circulated by recognised industry flag bearers such as the NFRC and the MCRMA”.

To further endorse the company’s commitment to Best Practice, EJOT UK has sponsored the NFRC’s industry-wide reference manual, known as ‘The Blue Book’. Managing Director Robert Hardstaff said:

“EJOT UK shares the NFRC’s philosophy of quality and excellence within the construction industry. We are therefore delighted that as NFRC Industry Technical Partner, our sponsorship will help to support this industry-wide platform for best practice.”

More information about accessing EJOT’s technical guide is now available at

https://www.ejot.co.uk/applitec-best-practice-screw-gun

Take the smart approach to specifying smoke vents

Building Products Index Ltd February 29, 2020 Smoke Control, Smoke Ventilation Leave a Comment

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James Fisher, Managing Director of Bilco UK, Howe Green and Profab Access, shares three key areas specifiers and roofing contractors should focus on when specifying smoke vents.

Natural Smoke and Heat Exhaust Ventilators (NSHEVs), more commonly known as smoke vents, provide essential ventilation in the event of a building fire. Installed in the roof, they open by sensors or remote control in response to exhaust smoke and noxious fumes. Suitable for installation in a range of buildings, from educational spaces such as universities to commercial environments such as warehouses, the aim of a smoke vent is to make a dangerous situation safer for all individuals.

1) Understanding the seriousness of smoke

While many may presume that the biggest danger of a fire are the flames, smoke inhalation can be far more dangerous and life threatening. Statistics from the UK Fire & Rescue Services stated that the most common cause of fire deaths and injury between 2018 and 2019* was ‘being overcome by gas or smoke.’

As a fire develops inside a building, it burns the oxygen in the air, removing most of the available oxygen as part of ‘incomplete combustion’, which in turn produces toxic and potentially deadly carbon monoxide.

When a fire ignites in an enclosed space the smoke rising from the fire gets trapped by the ceiling. It then begins to spread, forming an expanding layer that leaks into any gaps in the floors or walls. This can lead to individuals becoming disorientated, with their vision becoming increasingly clouded, hindering safe evacuation.

The installation of smoke vents in appropriate locations around a building will protect occupants in the event of a fire by preventing the excessive build-up of smoke and noxious fumes. This subsequently reduces the risk of smoke inhalation, horizontal fire spread and secondary ignitions as the smoke is quickly exhausted, enabling fire-fighters to safely enter the building to tackle the blaze and building occupants to exit quickly.

2) Knowing your regulations

As a specifier or contractor, ensuring the right product is used in the correct context is paramount to not only ensuring it is fit for purpose, but is also compliant with relevant regulations and provides the highest levels of safety.

When specifying a smoke vent for a roof, it should be compliant with the Construction Products Regulation 305/2011, CE-marked with a Declaration of Conformity. It should also be manufactured to meet the demands of Building Regulations, Approved Document B, BS9999 and BS EN12101-2.

Choosing a smoke vent that meets all of these legislations will help to not only achieve compliance but ensure the operational reliability and performance of the smoke vent throughout its lifetime.

The control of the smoke vent should also be considered, whether this is in the form of a dedicated management system or a solution integrated into a wider networked fire alarm system.

3) Customising your specification

While the functionality and quality of the smoke vent will be the primary consideration, aesthetics can also be an important factor. Here a ‘one size fits all approach’ shouldn’t be applied, as specifiers and contractors have a wide range of elements to choose from to ensure the product is tailored to meet the project’s unique needs. Customisation may include elements such as hardware, paint finishes, curb liners, manual or automatic control units, open-close switches and rain and wind sensors.

While a NSHEV plays a pivotal role in fire protection by successfully exhausting smoke, they can also be utilised for comfort ventilation, removing the requirement for additional roof penetration. The vents also adopt the role of a skylight, allowing natural light to filter through into the space below.

By installing the smoke vent with the addition of a fixed vertical safety ladder, its can provide an adequate means of escape from the roof and offer access to contractors for infrequent maintenance.

When specifying smoke vents, it’s important to explore the individual requirements for each development and work closely with manufacturers at the specification stage to design a bespoke solution that is fit for purpose, whilst also ensuring compliance with all relevant legislations.

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

*https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/831136/detailed-analysis-fires-attended-fire-rescue-england-1819-hosb1919.pdf

Arturo launches Arturo Concreta a range of decorative cementitious floors.

Building Products Index Ltd February 26, 2020 resin flooring Leave a Comment

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Polished concrete is becoming increasing popular due to the attractive appearance, however they are time consuming to install. Arturo Concreta decorative self-smoothing microcement is available in ten stylish colours which can be installed quickly and more sustainably than concrete polishing. With gentle marbling producing gorgeous colour tones and rustic finish, Arturo Concreta helps create stunning floors.

The system is also only 3-4 mm thick but unlike a microcement, when poured and applied, it self-smooths creating a seamless, marbled appearance. Arturo Concreta can be pumped or applied by hand producing a modern, rustic appearance which is durable. It is ideal for homes, offices, showrooms or public spaces to restaurants and retail.

Arturo will be exhibiting at two London exhibitions in early 2020. Architects at work between 29^th – 30^thJanuary at the Old Truman Brewery and the Surface Design Show between 11^th – 13^th February at the Business Design Centre in Islington.

www.arturoflooring.com

New EJOT Guides review Best Practice for installation of self-drilling fasteners

Building Products Index Ltd February 22, 2020 Fastening Systems Leave a Comment

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Brian Mack is Technical Business Development Manager for EJOT in the UK:

More information about accessing EJOT’s technical guide is now available at

https://www.ejot.co.uk/applitec-best-practice-screw-gun

Introducing Kawneer’s AA®720 E Window, designed specifically for the Education sector

Building Products Index Ltd February 22, 2020 Aluminium Windows Leave a Comment

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Kawneer has a long heritage of supplying the Education sector with cost-effective construction solutions – the latest being the new AA®720 E Outward Opening Casement Window.

Education sector construction projects rely on sourcing the best possible value and with the AA®720 E, that’s just what you get.

Part of the AA®720 modular system offering complete flexibility of design with incremental levels of thermal performance, the AA®720 E variant has been designed specifically for schools, colleges and universities, skilfully re-engineered to offer a cost-effective solution without sacrificing performance.

Made in the UK, it offers full weather protection together with PAS 24 security standards. The 72mm profiles incorporate the very latest thermal technology including extruded polyamide and patented thermal breaks, insulated centre seals and foam isolators.

The main cost benefit is derived from eliminating the need for reverse glazing adaptors, therefore reducing material utilisation, fabrication timescales and reducing sightlines from 147mm to 130mm.

The AA®720 E can be top-hung or side-hung and has a range of locking options including enhanced security to PAS 24:2016 standards; the frame is also BRE Green Guide ‘A’ Rated for projects that need specific sustainable and environmental requirements. A choice of restrictors is available to 100mm, compliant with the HTM 55 regulations and BS 8213 of 100mm initial opening, while Folding Openers with Link Bars provide safety in use.

The AA®720 E also features excellent warranties and aftercare so you can be sure it’ll pass every test, whether it’s meeting ventilation strategy or restricted budgets.

The Best Value Solution for Schools?
AA®720 E Gets Top Marks.

Take a look at our extensive portfolio of Education sector Case Studies.

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