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  • 26 Oct 2022
    The UK’s first 100% Portland cement free sustainable alternative to standard masonry mortars, developed and manufactured to deliver savings in CO2e emissions of up to 70%, has been launched in the UK by Cemfree, the country’s leading producer and pioneer of ultra-low carbon cementitious technologies and products. This is the second major launch for Cemfree, who 10 years ago unveiled the country’s first cement free binder, a real alternative to Portland cement (PC), responsible for 8% of the world’s CO2e emissions. With industry estimates showing that construction professionals use in excess of some 2.5 million tonnes of cement-based mortar every year, Cemfree believes this new product will give builders, architects and other construction professionals, another major opportunity to help the environment and reduce the risk of Global warming. Cemfree Masonry Mortar is a factory produced designed mortar available directly from Cemfree. It holds appropriate UKCA marking, showing conformity with UK legislation and is fully compliant to BS EN 998-2. Available in premixed bulk or 25KG bags, Cemfree Masonry Mortar performs in a similar way to standard cement-based mortars with the added benefit of significant carbon savings, delivering comparable consistency and curing times and offering excellent workability. “Cemfree Masonry Mortar is a major step forward in terms of reducing the amount of carbon emissions produced by conventional Portland cement-based products,” said Katie Wills, Cemfree Major Accounts Manager. “When used in conjunction with Cemfree concrete blocks, which are now widely available across the UK, the CO2e savings can be even more substantial. This is another major step forward in helping to protect our planet”. Cemfree Masonry Mortar has been launched following extensive development by the Cemfree Technology Team, and independent expert support.  It has been widely accepted and received by the industry during pilot tests to demonstrate the user-friendly nature of the product. The mortar is the latest stage of an ongoing product development programme for Cemfree as it continues to evolve with new technologies and products.  
    256 Posted by Talk. Build
  • The UK’s first 100% Portland cement free sustainable alternative to standard masonry mortars, developed and manufactured to deliver savings in CO2e emissions of up to 70%, has been launched in the UK by Cemfree, the country’s leading producer and pioneer of ultra-low carbon cementitious technologies and products. This is the second major launch for Cemfree, who 10 years ago unveiled the country’s first cement free binder, a real alternative to Portland cement (PC), responsible for 8% of the world’s CO2e emissions. With industry estimates showing that construction professionals use in excess of some 2.5 million tonnes of cement-based mortar every year, Cemfree believes this new product will give builders, architects and other construction professionals, another major opportunity to help the environment and reduce the risk of Global warming. Cemfree Masonry Mortar is a factory produced designed mortar available directly from Cemfree. It holds appropriate UKCA marking, showing conformity with UK legislation and is fully compliant to BS EN 998-2. Available in premixed bulk or 25KG bags, Cemfree Masonry Mortar performs in a similar way to standard cement-based mortars with the added benefit of significant carbon savings, delivering comparable consistency and curing times and offering excellent workability. “Cemfree Masonry Mortar is a major step forward in terms of reducing the amount of carbon emissions produced by conventional Portland cement-based products,” said Katie Wills, Cemfree Major Accounts Manager. “When used in conjunction with Cemfree concrete blocks, which are now widely available across the UK, the CO2e savings can be even more substantial. This is another major step forward in helping to protect our planet”. Cemfree Masonry Mortar has been launched following extensive development by the Cemfree Technology Team, and independent expert support.  It has been widely accepted and received by the industry during pilot tests to demonstrate the user-friendly nature of the product. The mortar is the latest stage of an ongoing product development programme for Cemfree as it continues to evolve with new technologies and products.  
    Oct 26, 2022 256
  • 23 Sep 2022
    A new and innovative range of portable ward furniture, especially made to meet the needs of busy hospitals and medical centres, will be officially unveiled by David Bailey, Britain’s fastest growing manufacturer of specialist furniture products, at the Healthcare Estates Conference in Manchester on October 4th. The range which includes a versatile choice of bedside cabinets, wardrobes, storage units and writing desks, has been designed with movement in mind, ready to be wheeled into action to meet any emergency situation or day to day medical requirement. “We have been supplying furniture to Hospitals, NHS Trusts, Private Hospitals and Medical Centres for 40 years,” said Tony Huggins, Operations Manager for David Bailey Furniture, “and in that time have developed a second to none reputation for delivering quality and innovation.” “These have traditionally been fixed storage units or reception, counters and staff bases, but it has been clear for some time that hospitals need a furniture range that is robust and flexible enough to be moved at moment’s notice, particularly in emergency situations, as we have seen in the recent pandemic.” The new range of portable furniture has been designed and manufactured for the benefit of both patients and staff. Every product uses quality proven components such as industry leading “Blum” hinges that will faultlessly open and close – every time – ‘silent run’ casters to allow for quiet easy movement, together with recognised security locks and other features to protect valuables and other essentials. The bedside cabinets offer easy access cupboards for mobile phones and wallets which can be accessed by patients via inbuilt doors at the side of each unit, while the main cupboard has been traditionally kept at the front for larger items. The cabinets together with the rest of the range have been made with a hospital environment in mind and are strong enough to meet the day-to-day challenges of moving beds and trolleys which frequently result in knocks and bumps. The units also meet the highest hygiene standards. The David Bailey Range of portable furniture is now ready for immediate manufacture and can be seen on Stand Number D63 at Manchester Central. For further information, visit: - https://davidbaileyfurniture.co.uk/  
    390 Posted by Talk. Build
  • A new and innovative range of portable ward furniture, especially made to meet the needs of busy hospitals and medical centres, will be officially unveiled by David Bailey, Britain’s fastest growing manufacturer of specialist furniture products, at the Healthcare Estates Conference in Manchester on October 4th. The range which includes a versatile choice of bedside cabinets, wardrobes, storage units and writing desks, has been designed with movement in mind, ready to be wheeled into action to meet any emergency situation or day to day medical requirement. “We have been supplying furniture to Hospitals, NHS Trusts, Private Hospitals and Medical Centres for 40 years,” said Tony Huggins, Operations Manager for David Bailey Furniture, “and in that time have developed a second to none reputation for delivering quality and innovation.” “These have traditionally been fixed storage units or reception, counters and staff bases, but it has been clear for some time that hospitals need a furniture range that is robust and flexible enough to be moved at moment’s notice, particularly in emergency situations, as we have seen in the recent pandemic.” The new range of portable furniture has been designed and manufactured for the benefit of both patients and staff. Every product uses quality proven components such as industry leading “Blum” hinges that will faultlessly open and close – every time – ‘silent run’ casters to allow for quiet easy movement, together with recognised security locks and other features to protect valuables and other essentials. The bedside cabinets offer easy access cupboards for mobile phones and wallets which can be accessed by patients via inbuilt doors at the side of each unit, while the main cupboard has been traditionally kept at the front for larger items. The cabinets together with the rest of the range have been made with a hospital environment in mind and are strong enough to meet the day-to-day challenges of moving beds and trolleys which frequently result in knocks and bumps. The units also meet the highest hygiene standards. The David Bailey Range of portable furniture is now ready for immediate manufacture and can be seen on Stand Number D63 at Manchester Central. For further information, visit: - https://davidbaileyfurniture.co.uk/  
    Sep 23, 2022 390
  • 08 Feb 2022
    Just before Christmas last year, government gifted a mandate which would see a 30% cut in carbon across all new residential buildings. The updates to Part L of the Building Regulations, which is to do with energy use, Part F for ventilation and the introduction of a new Part O for overheating will reportedly pave the way for a greener built environment. But do the updates go far enough? Ellen Huelin, Associate Director at Whitecode Consulting takes a closer look. Part L updates We have been expecting the changes for some time. This is the biggest update to Part L of the Building Regulations since 2013, where we will see a 30% reduction in carbon in new homes. As highlighted in the updates to Part L, the reduction will be achieved through fabric improvements and carbon saving technologies, i.e., the addition of PV panels or air source heat pumps. The announcements were set out in the Department for Levelling-Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC)’s response published last month to a public consultation, which ran from January to April 2021 on the Future Buildings Standard. It details interim uplifts to Parts L and F of the Building Regulations and the introduction of Part O. Part L applies to all projects after 15 June 2022, except projects where a building notice has been given. The new regulations will apply to all projects regardless from 15 June 2023. During the consultation an array of options was considered, but they decided to go for a higher uplift that’s not just based on building fabric but carbon saving technologies too. Taking a magnifying glass to the updates, the performance metrics for Part L 2021 include: -         Primary energy target -         CO2 emission target -         Fabric energy efficiency target (FEES – DFEE/TFEE) -         Minimum standards for fabric and fixed building services In many ways the updates to Part L will prepare many companies for the change that will come when the Future Homes and Buildings Standard comes into force in 2025. It is in that sense an important stepping stone. These latest updates to Part L mean that residential buildings built from 2023 are more prepared for the 2025 change. Furthermore, the focus on fabric-first approach and carbon saving technologies will therefore steadily remove dependency on gas boilers which are to be banned in new homes from 2025. Many GLA schemes that the likes of Whitecode Consulting work on are already installing heat pumps instead of gas boilers. The biggest challenge will be ensuring this change happens outside of London. As well as a focus on carbon technologies, a tighter building fabric will need to be achieved in preparation for the Future Homes Standard. The focus here isn’t so much on walls or doors but windows, which lose around 18% of a house’s total heat. To provide a solution to this issue, there is a need for windows to have stronger U-values. We will, then, see triple glazing with a 0.8 U-value expected by 2025. Closer inspection Businesses would do well to start putting these changes into motion as there are new requirements that have to be met. As part of the change and to assure compliance, photographs will be required during the construction of properties to prove correct installation; all plots must be air tested; accredited construction details (ACDs) for thermal bridging will be scrapped; and plot specific approach to transitional arrangements. Taking a closer look at the transitional arrangements is key, as there are details that must be considered. For Part L 2021 the site-wide approach for transitioning will change to a plot/building specific approach. Therefore plots/buildings that do not start within a year of the regulation’s application, even if on the same site, would need to be built to the latest standards. New Part O Another regulation that has been newly introduced is Part O for overheating. Here at Whitecode Consulting we have been performing overheating analysis for many years. Overheating can cause huge discomfort to homeowners and compromise their wellbeing. But, up until now it hasn’t ever been regulated. It is assuring, therefore, to see the introduction of Part O. Previously, TM59 overheating assessments were performed in order to assure compliance with the London Plan. Whilst this rigorous assessment will still be a method of choice on some projects, as it can offer more design flexibility, Part O certainly offers a more simplified, formulaic method which will be desirable on projects. It’s key to look closely at the changes Part O includes. Projects will not, for instance, be able to use internal blinds to comply. Blinds have been continually used in developments to prevent overheating. Now, with the new Part O, schemes will need to include other kinds of shading including external to comply. Whichever route is selected, Whitecode Consulting has the experience and expertise to help clients navigate their chosen path.  All in all, the updates to Part L, Part F and the introduction of Part O are highly welcomed. The updates to Part L in particular will go some way to preparing us for the Future Homes Standard in 2025. The changes, however, are severely overdue and could have gone further, as the reality is that the change has to be done now. Given that we are living in a climate emergency, will the industry be quicker to adopt the change? We’ll have to wait and see. 
    736 Posted by Talk. Build
  • Just before Christmas last year, government gifted a mandate which would see a 30% cut in carbon across all new residential buildings. The updates to Part L of the Building Regulations, which is to do with energy use, Part F for ventilation and the introduction of a new Part O for overheating will reportedly pave the way for a greener built environment. But do the updates go far enough? Ellen Huelin, Associate Director at Whitecode Consulting takes a closer look. Part L updates We have been expecting the changes for some time. This is the biggest update to Part L of the Building Regulations since 2013, where we will see a 30% reduction in carbon in new homes. As highlighted in the updates to Part L, the reduction will be achieved through fabric improvements and carbon saving technologies, i.e., the addition of PV panels or air source heat pumps. The announcements were set out in the Department for Levelling-Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC)’s response published last month to a public consultation, which ran from January to April 2021 on the Future Buildings Standard. It details interim uplifts to Parts L and F of the Building Regulations and the introduction of Part O. Part L applies to all projects after 15 June 2022, except projects where a building notice has been given. The new regulations will apply to all projects regardless from 15 June 2023. During the consultation an array of options was considered, but they decided to go for a higher uplift that’s not just based on building fabric but carbon saving technologies too. Taking a magnifying glass to the updates, the performance metrics for Part L 2021 include: -         Primary energy target -         CO2 emission target -         Fabric energy efficiency target (FEES – DFEE/TFEE) -         Minimum standards for fabric and fixed building services In many ways the updates to Part L will prepare many companies for the change that will come when the Future Homes and Buildings Standard comes into force in 2025. It is in that sense an important stepping stone. These latest updates to Part L mean that residential buildings built from 2023 are more prepared for the 2025 change. Furthermore, the focus on fabric-first approach and carbon saving technologies will therefore steadily remove dependency on gas boilers which are to be banned in new homes from 2025. Many GLA schemes that the likes of Whitecode Consulting work on are already installing heat pumps instead of gas boilers. The biggest challenge will be ensuring this change happens outside of London. As well as a focus on carbon technologies, a tighter building fabric will need to be achieved in preparation for the Future Homes Standard. The focus here isn’t so much on walls or doors but windows, which lose around 18% of a house’s total heat. To provide a solution to this issue, there is a need for windows to have stronger U-values. We will, then, see triple glazing with a 0.8 U-value expected by 2025. Closer inspection Businesses would do well to start putting these changes into motion as there are new requirements that have to be met. As part of the change and to assure compliance, photographs will be required during the construction of properties to prove correct installation; all plots must be air tested; accredited construction details (ACDs) for thermal bridging will be scrapped; and plot specific approach to transitional arrangements. Taking a closer look at the transitional arrangements is key, as there are details that must be considered. For Part L 2021 the site-wide approach for transitioning will change to a plot/building specific approach. Therefore plots/buildings that do not start within a year of the regulation’s application, even if on the same site, would need to be built to the latest standards. New Part O Another regulation that has been newly introduced is Part O for overheating. Here at Whitecode Consulting we have been performing overheating analysis for many years. Overheating can cause huge discomfort to homeowners and compromise their wellbeing. But, up until now it hasn’t ever been regulated. It is assuring, therefore, to see the introduction of Part O. Previously, TM59 overheating assessments were performed in order to assure compliance with the London Plan. Whilst this rigorous assessment will still be a method of choice on some projects, as it can offer more design flexibility, Part O certainly offers a more simplified, formulaic method which will be desirable on projects. It’s key to look closely at the changes Part O includes. Projects will not, for instance, be able to use internal blinds to comply. Blinds have been continually used in developments to prevent overheating. Now, with the new Part O, schemes will need to include other kinds of shading including external to comply. Whichever route is selected, Whitecode Consulting has the experience and expertise to help clients navigate their chosen path.  All in all, the updates to Part L, Part F and the introduction of Part O are highly welcomed. The updates to Part L in particular will go some way to preparing us for the Future Homes Standard in 2025. The changes, however, are severely overdue and could have gone further, as the reality is that the change has to be done now. Given that we are living in a climate emergency, will the industry be quicker to adopt the change? We’ll have to wait and see. 
    Feb 08, 2022 736

  • For your convenience we have listed 10 of the best “How to plaster a wall” blogs and guides and as we have no affiliations to any individual suppliers, it is for you to decide what works for you. Building Materials Company One of the better guides showing how to plaster a wall in nine easy steps  https://www.buildingmaterials.co.uk/knowledge/how-to-plaster-a-wall       2. British Gypsum As one of the country’s leading manufacturers this How to guide is obviously aimed at its own products but also gives a more general guide to all types of plastering and may be better suited to the beginner. https://www.british-gypsum.com/product-range/plaster-products/how-to-plaster         3. Homebuilding and Renovating This is a more interesting guide as it tries to give useful tips covering a range of different plastering challenges. https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/plastering-walls          4. DIY Doctor This website readily acknowledges that plastering can be difficult but concentrates on the finished job, the actual final coat or skim, which obviously has to look flat on completion. https://www.diydoctor.org.uk/projects/skim.htm           5. Dave’s Tips We like this site as it really tries to appeal to the beginner. Dave is an experienced plasterer and reckons it’s easy – but then it probably is for him. https://www.davesdiytips.com/plastering-for-beginners            6. Able Skills This is a site that assume you have never plastered a wall before and really does get down to the basics. We all know of course it’s not as easy as it’s made out – but well worth a look. https://www.ableskills.co.uk/blog/tutorials/how-to-apply-your-first-coat-of-plaster          7. Real Homes This is advice for those of us who live in old homes. Plastering is a more of a challenge in such buildings and this is where you will get the best tips if you have an older property. https://www.realhomes.com/advice/plaster-in-old-homes          8. The Spruce Keeping on the theme of old homes The Spruce takes it one stage further by discussing plaster and lath. If your home features such walls and ceilings then this is for you. https://www.thespruce.com/plaster-and-lath-came-before-drywall-1822861             9. Artex Ltd Probably one of the biggest plastering challenges and a throwback to all those 80’s style properties this How to guide shows you the best way to plaster over Artex. Good luck. https://www.artexltd.com/repair-hub/plastering-over-artex             10. Dummies Finally in our top 10 and the one that most find easier is a guide to how to repair cracks. These easy to follow instructions are worth a look. https://www.dummies.com/home-garden/walls-ceilings/how-to-fix-small-cracks-in-plaster
    Dec 13, 2018 2750
  • Once you have planned where your shed will go you need to make sure you have all the right tools and products to complete the job such as: Pegs and string Building sand Standard cement Timber for base formwork Tape measure Spade Sweeping brush 1. Prepare the base When you do this allow enough distance from hedges or fences for easy access to all sides. Use the pegs and string to mark out a base 2” (5 cm) larger than the area of the building on each side. Make sure the area is square by using a level diagonally across the area 2. Pay attention to the hardcore Ensure that you have at least 3” (7.5 cm) of compacted hardcore underneath a 3″ concrete layer. The base can be level with the ground or raised above it. If you want it to be level, dig to a depth of 6” (15 cm), to allow for the hardcore layer and 3” (7.5 cm) of concrete. Level the area with a rake and spade and remove the pegs. 3. Make sure it’s level Measure, cut and fit timber to the shape of the base in order to contain the concrete. Check diagonal measurements to ensure the formwork is square and level as this will determine whether your shed base is 100% sturdy. Spread the hardcore and cover with a good level of sand. Ensure it is well compacted and flattened using a compacting tool or roller. 4: Next the concrete Mix concrete using one part cement to five parts all-in-one ballast, or use bags of dry-mixed concrete and just add water. Be careful not to add too much water as this may make the cement too runny. Spread the concrete evenly and slightly above the formwork. This can be then levelled off with a long straight edge of timber resting on the formwork. Use a sawing motion slowly over the entire surface of the freshly laid concrete. In extreme weather conditions – both hot and cold – ensure that you base is covered to allow it to cure slowly, minimising the risk if shrinking or cracking – and there you have it – the perfect base for your new shed. You could of course then decide to build your own shed but as we discussed earlier – why would you want to when there are so many brilliant alternatives that have been prefabricated offsite and ready to be place on your new base. Talk.Build never makes recommendations but as a starting point you might want to visit:  Sheds
    Jul 30, 2018 2671
  • We have seen many different types of architectural software over recent years and while it seems that most do very good jobs there have also been many adverse comments that products are not delivering. Understandably most professionals are confused with the wide range of products on offer. Many look at niche options which do not quite hit the mark but with the right software and a modern computer, the entire plan of a building can be rendered and checked for structural and design flaws before it even leaves the drawing board. This is more efficient, less wasteful, and a lot more convenient as well. BIM Modelling has also demanded that architects design and produce in both 2D and 3D and as a result there have been major development in design software which allows professionals to draw and visualise house floor plans more quickly and easily One such company, Elecosoft, seems to have gone further than most with its own bespoke package, “Arcon Evo”, which combines visual design, professional CAD capabilities and clear project execution in a single program. The new software also offers an extensive range of architectural CAD tools for all aspects of building design allowing architects to construct to the smallest level of detail. It also produces detailed plans, automated 3D models, elevations, section details and working drawings and much more. At the front end it will also generate detailed drawing sets for planning applications with many additional features which many of my colleagues in the trade press are endorsing as a major leap forward. To some extent I guess I am doing the same but rather than list all the benefits, which can be seen on the company’s website – the link is featured at the bottom of this article - I am more interested in how architects themselves have responded. In the past, as mentioned earlier, we have seen many different software packages which all claim to bring architects and building professionals into the 21st Century but have failed to deliver when it matters. According to the professionals “Arcon Evo” does exactly what it says on the tin and is more than capable of producing detailed 2D and 3D designs and it seems a whole lot more. Guess it is down to our readers to decide. Visit: www.3darchitect.co.uk
    Jul 26, 2018 3340
  • As a result of this redevelopment, the Wishaw site is projected to allow the production of up to 35,000 tonnes of mortars and 12,000 tonnes of Sika’s market leading single coat render, Monorex per year - bringing the combined total for all Sika UK sites to over 100,000 tonnes of both mortars and façade products annually. Previously dedicated to the manufacture of Enewall products, the site will now focus on the production of SikaWall; a range of renders and systems from the trusted Sika brand. Incorporating Sika’s renowned high levels of customer service with a quality product, the newly rebranded SikaWall range is one which customers and applicators can have confidence in. The redevelopment of the Wishaw site further strengthens Sika’s capability to manufacture market leading products within the UK and consequently improves our ability to mitigate supply chain issues which have affected the building industry over the last two years. Commissioning of the Wishaw site was carried out at the beginning of April with production scheduled to commence later in the month.  
    May 04, 2022 495
  • Sika MonoTop®rewrites the rule book in terms of low-carbon concrete by generating fewer CO2emissions compared to other concrete repair solutions – up to 1 tonne of CO2 per 100m2. In order to promote the range and Sika’s commitment to sustainability, the company is to host a webinar at 11am on Monday, January 31st. Presented by James Collett, Sika’s Area Specification Manager – Specialist Construction Solutions, and Sustainability Manager, Dr Sarah Peake, the course is an opportunity for contractors, specifier and architects to learn about how MonoTop® – a proven, high-performance concrete repair solution – can also reduce their carbon footprint. John Baron, Specialist Construction Solutions, Business Unit Manager at Sika said: “The new sustainable Sika MonoTop® concrete repair range is a result of our unique mindset and development efforts. We’re proud of this product, as it proves more performance and more sustainability is possible.” MonoTop® sets new standards in sustainable concrete repair. It comprises Sika MonoTop®-1010, Sika MonoTop®-3020 and Sika MonoTop®-4012 and as well as generating fewer emissions than comparable concrete repair systems, its dust-reducing properties limit particle emissions by up to 70% during application, thus resulting in safer, less-polluted, more comfortable on-site working conditions for operatives. MonoTop®’s environmentally-friendly credentials are also essential to achieving BREEAM/LEED requirements. Each British Standard-approved product within the system, including the bonding binder and the concrete and levelling mortars, contains recycled waste materials. John added: “With MonoTop®, we’ve developed a concrete repair solution that benefits the construction industry and the environment. Join our webinar to find out how MonoTop® can benefit your next project.”  
    Jan 18, 2022 554
  • The new products launched as part of the MonoTop® range consist of the following: - Sika MonoTop®-1010, Sika MonoTop®-3020, MonoTop®-4012, which generates less CO2emissions compared to other concrete repair solutions – up to 1 tonne ofCO2 per 100m2 – earned its CRA nomination in the ‘Innovation’ category. Ideal for new-build and refurbishment projects, MonoTop® rewrites the rule book in terms of low-carbon concrete repair. Its sustainability is enhanced by its dust-reducing properties which limit particle emissions by up to 70% during application, resulting in safer, less-polluted, more comfortable on-site working conditions for operatives. John Baron, Specialist Construction Solutions Business Unit Manager at Sika, said: “The MonoTop®range highlights Sika’s commitment to developing products which achieve new levels of sustainability without compromising the company’s primary function as a trusted repair resource. The CRA nomination, of which we’re extremely proud, is in recognition of this ability. MonoTop®’’s production is a testament to the technical ingenuity of our superb research and development teams.” MonoTop®’s environmentally-friendly credentials are essential to achieving BREEAM/LEED requirements. Indeed, each British Standard-approved product within the system, including the bonding binder and the concrete and levelling mortars, contains recycled waste materials. Category winners of this year’s CRA awards will be announced onFriday, December 3rd at the Radisson Blu Edwardian Bloomsbury Street Hotel, London.    
    Dec 01, 2021 641
  • Many building managers are now adhering to certain principles – including keeping Rh at optimum levels – to prevent bacterial spread. Smart sensors installed as part of a building management system (BMS) are designed to consistently monitor indoor spaces, assuring they are the optimum environments for people’s health, wellbeing and safety. Sensors are a form of dialogue that represent real-time building performance. If they detect any untoward changes to the environment, they quickly react to return it where it should be. Sensors’ ability to closely monitor room humidity – which if too low or high can contribute to bacteria growth – was a requirement for Dammam Medical Tower, a large hospital in Saudi Arabia. An effective control strategy was created to combat detrimental changes in air humidity within the Dammam Medical Tower’s isolation rooms. A space mounted relative humidity and temperature (RH&T) sensor was supplied, which uses the latest high-accuracy technology to improve and maintain a healthy indoor environment. Smart and self-managing sensors are the best method to assure infection control. These small yet mighty devices mean all indoor environments are of the highest quality, keeping us humans safe and healthy in the process.
    Apr 15, 2021 760
  • Situated in the southern gateway to the Lake District, Stonecross Meadows is a stylish development of three, four and five-bedroom semi-detached and detached homes. In order to achieve the desired aesthetics, developer Jones Homes required a weatherproof render which offered ease of application and would successfully complement the homes’ natural stone façade. This led to the specification of Parex Monorex GM, a one-coat weather resistant and breathable render, for the various house elevations. Jones Homes specified Parex Monorex GM in Pale Yellow and Smokey Grey for the homes, garages and surrounding walls of the development. Parex Monorex GM was sprayapplied to the concrete blockwork and to provide additional reinforcement and crack resistance at stress locations around openings, Parex TV10 Mesh was embedded into the render during the application process. More than 5000m2 render was applied by Parex registered applicator North West Render Ltd who said: “We recommended the use of Parex Monorex GM for this development due to the product’s ease of application and superior finish having used it on previous projects. Once again, the spray-applied application ensured a consistent, high quality finish”.  Furthermore, Parex’s quick response with samples and a full system specification also helped secure the project with Jones Homes, one of the UK’s leading home builders. Monorex GM is suitable for machine spraying or hand application and can be finished in a range of styles from medium scraped, light tyrolean to heavy roughcast textured finishes. Client: Jones Homes Main Contractor: North West Render Ltd PAREX PRODUCTS USED: Parex Monorex GM, Parex TV10 Mesh
    Apr 13, 2021 1033
  • Bernat Klein House in High Sunderland, Selkirk, set in three acres of glorious Scottish countryside, is a triumphant example of mid-20th century architectural enterprise. Built in 1957 and designed by renowned modernist architect Peter Womersley, the open plan, single-storey property offers a stylish lesson in how to introduce an expansive feel to a house with a relatively small floor area. The rectangular-shaped building, originally commissioned by Serbian textile designer Bernat Klein, is essentially subdivided into 8ft modules. The continuous, walk-through design includes four bedrooms, a kitchen, a living room and a dining area. Such is the exceptional nature of the property's architecture it has Category A listing – the highest grade of listing given by Historic Environment Scotland. For the house's 133m2 roof refurbishment Gradient, in conjunction with contractors Laurence McIntosh, was selected to design a tapered insulation scheme that was as rapid to install, as it was efficient in preventing unwanted ponding on the flat roof. It led to the specification of Eurothane Eurodeck - Gradient's premium, high performing rigid PIR insulation board. Ideal for use under mechanically-fixed, single-ply membranes across new-build and refurbishment projects, Eurothane Eurodeck's high compressive strength is complemented by its low thermal conductivity (0.022 W/mK). With this exceptional PIR solution, dimensional stability and a super-smooth surface are guaranteed. Further, the system was made-to-measure and therefore eliminated on-site cutting, which significantly reduced on-site labour times and material waste. Gordon Dickson, Contracts Director at Laurence McIntosh, said: “Due to the high-profile nature of this project, we required a quality insulation that offered excellent performance in terms of thermal conductivity and ease of installation. Thanks to the conjunctive efforts of Gradient's technical team in designing a bespoke tapered solution, the made-to-measure system ensured it met the client’s brief and incurred minimal material waste. This added to the project's cost-effectiveness, whilst enhancing its environmental credentials.” The roof was finished with a single-ply membrane and thanks to the combined expertise that led to the specification, design and installation of Gradient's Eurothane Eurodeck tapered insulation, this historic Scottish house will remain an astonishing architectural feature of Selkirk’s wild and wonderful countryside for many years to come.  
    Mar 30, 2021 945
  • He replaces Trevor Gillman, who now takes on the role of Chief Executive Officer and who has been responsible for developing the company over a 33 year period, transforming the business from a medium sized manufacturer of kitchen units into a UK market leader of fitted furniture. His vision and innovation have seen the development of an extensive range of storage units and other specialist furniture products, which are now widely used in hospitals and healthcare centres across the country. Tony, who joined Broadstairs, Kent, based David Bailey Furniture in September 2021 as Operations Manager is now charged with delivering plans to streamline the business still further following a major investment programme which has seen the company significantly expand its production capacity. “We have shown steady continual improvement and have great potential to build on our rapid growth spurt, but I am very aware that we will always need to be as efficient as possible if we are to continue competing within a very crowded market,” said Tony. “I intend to implement a 5-year lean manufacturing plan for the shopfloor, which involves a fully automated production system which will offer even greater opportunities for our loyal staff and I am very much looking forward to the challenge.” “It is my mission to have a piece of David Bailey furniture in every single hospital in the UK within the next five years. We have the right team in place and I am sure we can achieve all of our objectives within this period.”. David Bailey Furniture has been established for more than 40 years and employs 38 staff. Their Healthcare range of fitted furniture features within some of the country’s largest and most prestigious NHS and private hospitals. It is also regularly specified for other healthcare furniture projects from health centres and nursing homes to doctors’ surgeries and dental practices. In more recent years the company has also significantly increased its presence in the schools and veterinary markets and is now a major supplier to the prisons sector and other growing niche markets. Vist: https://davidbaileyfurniture.co.uk  
    Feb 23, 2023 41
  • Tom joined Sika in 1992. Based at the Welwyn Garden City Head Office, he has a breadth of experience in Sales, Marketing and Product Management, joining the Management Team in 2007 as the Business Unit Manager for the Concrete division. Further to the successful management of this part of the business, he assumed responsibility for the Waterproofing division in 2013. In 2018, Tom assumed additional responsibilities for managing the Everbuild brand – A Sika Company, playing a key role in its integration, establishing this area of the business as a substantial part of Sika Limited, with record growth in sales and profitability. The new appointment will see him build on the already well-established Sika brand in the UK. In 2021, the company is aiming to achieve 15% growth in net sales whilst maintaining profitability levels. Major focuses that will help the company achieve this centre on key initiatives to grow e-commerce channels, further develop its network of specifiers, strengthening relationships with key specialist distributors and add to the Sika contractor networks. The company will also continue to focus efforts on developing inter-company business. “I strongly believe that continued focus on our people and their development, will allow us to grow, and this, coupled with investment in technology, will lead us to become the employer of choice,” commented Tom. “The safety of our staff has been a high priority during the pandemic and will continue to be so going forward. Relationships inside the company and towards our customers are the main drivers for sustainable results. Sika Limited in the UK, is a strong and focused company, and I am looking forward to the challenge of growing our brands in the UK under one combined entity.” Sika UK has grown steadily over the past few years, reaching one of the highest sales and profit results of Sika globally, despite operating in challenging market conditions.
    May 08, 2021 790
  • The demand for healthier indoor environments and optimised energy use is meaning more and more commercial and residential schemes are utilising building management systems to assure occupancy comfort levels and conserve energy. As smart devices in the form of building sensors are a core element of this drive, Sontay is seeing a growing demand for its solutions. It is why Sontay introduced the new role of Quality Assurance Engineer, to meet with this industry-wide need and assure Sontay is consistently exceeding its high standards. Within this role, Raj will be responsible for the design and delivery of all quality control and assurance activities and objectives at Sontay. As well as being tasked with reviewing and managing manufacturing materials and processes against quality requirements, Raj will be leading a culture of continuous improvement within the quality system. He will develop inspection and test procedures to ensure no stone is left unturned in the pursuit of quality. The position is part of Sontay’s wider goal to continually offer high levels of quality and customer service. Speaking on his new role Raj said: “Sontay is one of the market-leading providers for the building industry. I can see my experience (30 years in the defence sector) will be very useful to the company. It will give me great satisfaction to work in a fresh and vibrant role. It is an exciting time to move into construction and the HVAC sectors!”
    Apr 20, 2021 812