innovations

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 contents
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Innovations is accurate, the publishers do not accept liability
for errors that may appear in the publication. Building
Innovations is published quarterly, free of charge to a carefully
vision practice news 4
selected readership under the publishers control. Copies are

opinion
otherwise available on request at cost of £3.75 per single
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Tel: 01785 255770 Fax: 01785 259324
Email: info@link2media.co.uk www.link2media.co.uk environmental control 50
doors, windows & glazing 58
roofs 67
walls 71
floors 76
paints & coatings 81
external work 82
interiors 84
projects 87

www.buildinginnovations.co.uk
 vision!
practice news :

v!news 6-7

v!projects 8-15
innovations
building

“The thing always happens that you really

believe in; and the belief in a thing makes
it happen.”

Frank Lloyd Wright

 BI ISSUE 2 2008 ISSUE 2 2008 BI 

 v!news
GSA Select Architecture m-ch Crosses the Atlantic?
Greats For Degree Honour The award winning micro-compact home (m-ch) is to make its US
debut this summer at The Museum of Modern Art in New York,
Andy MacMillan and Isi Metzstein, formerly of architecture as part of the exhibition Home Delivery: Fabricating the Modern
practice Gillespie Kidd and Coia, are to be awarded honorary Dwelling. The micro-compact home is a revolutionary low energy
degrees conferred by the University of Glasgow on behalf of The lightweight prefabricated dwelling pioneered by Professor Richard
Glasgow School of Art for their impact on Scottish architectural Horden and his fellow teachers and students of the department of
culture, their considerable academic involvement at The Glasgow Architecture and Product Design, Technical University Munich.
School of Art and the revival of interest in their work following the Selected from 400 architectural projects, the m-ch is one of five
exhibition Gillespie Kidd and Coia: Architecture 1956 – 1987 at The full-scale prefabricated homes to be displayed in the outdoor space
Lighthouse, Scotland’s centre for Architecture and Design. Professor to the west of MoMA’s building. The five projects will be shown
Seona Reid, Director of The Glasgow School of Art, said: “I cannot in the context of a further 58 projects displayed in the sixth-floor
think of any architects living in Scotland today who have had more International Council of The Museum of Modern Art Gallery,
influence on both architectural design and architectural education offering the most thorough examination to date of both the historic
than Andy and Isi”. The honorary degrees will be presented at a and contemporary significance of factory-produced architecture
ceremony in Bute Hall, University of Glasgow on Friday 20th June. from 1833 to today.

[w] www.microcompacthome.com

Vincent & Gorbing

HMA3D Director Steve Pickup Made A Member
Of The Society Of Architectural Illustration
Steve, of digital visualisation company HMA3D, is one
of a select number in the field of CGIs to be a member of
SAI. To become a SAI member, competence and experience
within the architectural illustration field has to be proven.
Steve, who was one of the first people in this field in
the UK, has over a decades worth of experience and his
portfolio of work illustrates how highly his competence
is held within the property arena. The Society has enjoyed
patronage of Sir John Betjeman, Sir Hugh Casson and
Gordon Cullen making it a privileged society to be part
of. Steve is currently working on some very exciting
projects including the new 5rise build in Bingley, The
Copenhagen building in Glasgow, and the proposed new
Eco development at Lingfield Point, Darlington.
[w] www.hma3d.co.uk
Purcell Miller Tritton Focus On Educational
Activity With New Senior Architect
Leading architect and historic building consultant,
Purcell Miller Tritton, has announced the appointment
of Matthew Hodgson as Senior Architect to its London
office, joining the team responsible for the delivery of
educational schemes throughout the UK and Eire. At
Purcell Miller Tritton, Matthew will initially be working
on projects currently underway and then will develop
the educational sector, an area in which the practice are
keen to capitalise on their experience. Previously from
Nightingale Associates, where he worked as a Project
Architect, he has extensive experience within education
due to his involvement in a wide range of projects
including West Herts College, Guildford College and
Bedford College.
[w] www.pmt.co.uk
Call For Entries For The Inaugural World
Architecture Festival
International media group Emap is inviting architects
worldwide to enter their projects into the World Architecture
Festival awards, the biggest architectural awards programme
in the world which will celebrate the work, concerns and
aspirations of the international architectural community.
The Festival will take place in Barcelona, Spain from 22
- 24 October 2008 at the Centre Convencions Internacional
Barcelona (CCIB). Buildings that have been completed
between 1st January 2007 and 20th June 2008 are eligible
to enter the awards. Entries are invited from 15th April until
20th June 2008 and architects are encouraged to complete
the simple entry procedure starting at the website (www.
worldarchitecturefestival.com), and then as hard copy.
Expand Team of Experts
Stevenage-based Vincent & Gorbing, Chartered
Architects and Town Planners, have announced the
appointment of Mark Wilson as Principal Planner,
Tracy Smythe as Senior Project Architect and Michael
Wilson as Senior Graphic Designer. The joiners
will be involved in a variety of client projects in the
commercial, industrial, leisure, retail, interior, housing
and town planning sectors. Geoff Yeates, Director
of Vincent & Gorbing, commented: “We welcome
Tracy, Mark and Michael to our team of 28 highly
talented staff. Their combined planning, design and
architectural experience in a variety of market sectors
will bring enormous benefit to our skills base and to
our client project work.”
[w] www.vincent-gorbing.co.uk

[w] www.worldarchitecturefestival.com

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 v!projects
Widnes Waterfront
Blossoms With Tonkin
Liu’s Future Flower
Award winning architectural practice Tonkin Liu has won an
international design competition to design a new £125,000
landmark public art commission on Widnes Waterfront in
Cheshire. As part of a wider public art and environmental uplift
programme, over the last six months the programme team of
Widnes Waterfront has sought a creative designer to deliver
a major piece of public art which is to be funded solely by
contributions from external sources.
The brief called for a dramatic contemporary
artwork sympathetic to the ambitions of
the Widnes Waterfront and alluding to the
environmental and social character and of the
region. The winning proposal Future Flower,
is 3 metres in diameter,12 metres in height,
wind-powered, with bright yellow Perspex petals
that gently flutter and light up in the wind. The
direction of the wind determines which petals
illuminate, resulting in an ever-changing and
dynamic flower.
Anna Liu, Director of Tonkin Liu is excited by
the commission. She said: “At this site industry
meets nature, with a stunningly beautiful light
that reflects off the water and the mud plains.
Our proposal catches the light and the wind,
and marks a point on the horizon of the River
Mersey. The Future Flower also extends our
interest in natural geometry and structures
that respond to the weather.” Leader of Halton
Borough Council, Tony McDermott, welcomed
the appointment. He said: “We had an excellent
shortlist to choose from and some thoroughly inspiring and
thought-provoking designs. Tonkin Liu bring with them a wealth
of experience in designing and delivering memorable pieces of
public art in the UK and internationally.
“We see this piece, coupled with the extensive public art
programme as making a real difference to the locality,
demonstrating growth, civic pride and our belief in the area.To
the thousands of people that work in the area and the thousands
that will view it from other vantage points in Widnes it will
hopefully resonate change and an emerging future for the entire
borough. “We are delighted that Tonkin Liu is on board; we are
sure that the Future Flower will become a firm favourite with
the people of Halton.”

[w] www.tonkinliu.co.uk

ISSUE 2 2008 BI 
 v!projects
Restoring Leighton’s
Palace Of Art
A major nineteenth-century museum is to be given a twenty-first-century upgrade thanks to the
Kensington and Chelsea Council. Leighton House Museum, located on the edge of Holland Park,
is to undergo a £1.3 million programme of refurbishment and restoration. “Leighton House is
a fantastic museum but the building is in need of some care and attention. It’s a very popular
attraction visited by residents, budding artists and tourists. By restoring the services which
maintain the fabric of the building we will help secure its future for at least another century to
come. I very much look forward to seeing the changes and additions to the house when it reopens
in 2009”, said Cllr Nicholas Paget-Brown, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Environmental
Management and Leisure.
The restoration works will include: a complete re-wire of the electrical services; upgrading of
the central heating system in order to create the right environmental conditions to preserve the
museum’s paintings and the restoration of the original sumptuous decoration. In July and August
2008, the most distinctive feature of the exterior of Leighton House will be reinstated. These are
the brick ziggurats that ran around the parapet wall of the Arab Hall and Silk Room until they were
removed in 1959. Their restoration will bring the exoticism of the Arab Hall onto the exterior of
the building. The completion of these projects will see the house returned closer to its original
spectacular appearance than at any time in living memory, re-creating Leighton’s ‘Private Palace
of Art.’ The museum will close on 31 October 2008 for 12 months.

[w] www.rbkc.gov.uk/LeightonHouseMuseum/general

Leighton House Museum is the former studio-house of the great Victorian artist Frederic, Lord Leighton (1830
to 1896). Located on the edge of London’s Holland Park, the house is one of the most extraordinary buildings
of the nineteenth century. New research and paint analysis carried out over recent years has confirmed that
Leighton’s original decorative schemes differed in several important respects from the current appearance of the
interiors. The floors in the dining room and drawing room were painted red and blue respectively. The dome of
the Arab Hall was gilded; the original floorboards on the first floor survive beneath modern flooring laid over
them in the 1960s and could be revealed and restored.
Completing these works will return the house to its original spectacular appearance, fully recreating Leighton’s
private ‘Palace of Art’. Detailed by Leighton’s architect George Aitchison and derived from the stepped pyramid
shape of temples found in ancient Mesopotamia, the ziggurats remained in situ until 1959 when they were
taken down and the parapet altered. Following a grant from Kensington and Chelsea Environmental Ltd., the
bricks are being specially made to order and plans for the re-introduction of the ziggurats are well advanced.

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 v!projects
Freeland Rees Roberts
Architects Win David Urwin
Design Award For Peterhouse
Library, Cambridge
Freeland Rees Roberts Architects have announced that the £1.4m library
extension at Peterhouse, Cambridge, designed by the Cambridge-based practice,
has won a David Urwin Design Award 2008 under the category ‘The Best
Conservation, Alteration or Extension of an Existing Building.’ The Awards
ceremony took at the Cambridge Forum for the Construction Industry’s annual
dinner at King’s College. In 1984 the Museum was reclaimed by Peterhouse from
the University, which had rented it from the College for a hundred years, and
converted into the College Library.
The Peterhouse Ward Library extension, the Gunn Gallery, is a conservation
scheme consisting of the conversion of a former unused and derelict gallery
(forming part of the old Museum) into a stunning, new student library facility.
It was the old Central Gallery of the Museum, which lies between what is now
the Ward Library Reading Room and the Lubbock Room, adjacent to the college
theatre. Tristan Rees Roberts, Director of Freeland Rees Roberts Architects
said: “We are delighted that this scheme has won a David Urwin Award which
is a prestigious, local and annual architecture competition. The project was
challenging as there were planning constraints, namely the buildings being Grade
II listed. However, our alterations were well supported by the Conservation
Officer. Removing the pediments of two doors to create a mezzanine was slightly
contentious and we were asked to retain the Victorian hoisting gear for the heavy
classical statues which now create an amusing intrusion into the Computer Room.
Another challenge included organising the excavation of tons of soil from below
the Ward Library to create new College storage facilities and, finally, completely
to redecorate the original Ward Library.”
Martin Golding, the Ward Librarian at Peterhouse, commented: “We are
extremely pleased with the Gunn Gallery, which has fulfilled our hopes in every
way. Freeland Rees Roberts Architects’ brief involved bringing the derelict space
into the service of the Ward Library, by opening up the formerly blocked portico
that led from the existing Reading Room. The Gallery measured some 60’ x 22’,
and, like the existing Library rooms, was ideally suited for library use, being
top-lit by continuous glass panels along the entire length of the roof. The Ward
Library needed to house 20,000 books and 20 readers with up to 10 computer
spaces, and the conversion has done so triumphantly.“ Work on the conversion of
the former Museum began in June 2004 and the new library was officially opened
in November 2005.

[w] www.frrarchitects.co.uk

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Mosedale Gillatt Architects (MGA), one of the North East’s leading
architectural and design firms, has released new artist’s impressions of the
proposed Maritime Centre for Newbiggin by the Sea, which is due to go to
planning imminently following a successful public consultation. Providing a
further boost to the tourism potential of the Northumberland town, the new
centre will house two major pieces of Newbiggin’s maritime history – the
restored Mary Joicey Lifeboat and a local Coble fishing boat – the ‘Girl Ann’.
The centre will also feature corporate and educational facilities, and a public
café and restaurant.
The concept for the visitor attraction was prepared in close consultation with
the Newbiggin community, developing a range of active partnerships in the
village and across the Wansbeck District. MGA’s design, which incorporates
a number of ‘green’ technologies, uses a palette of natural materials to allow
the building to sit comfortably within its surroundings. In addition, the
building’s low form ensures that there is minimum impact on the views to the
nearby St Bartholomew’s church.
Adding to the area’s recent key developments, including the installation of
internationally renowned public art piece Couple on the offshore reef, and
the beach recharge, the new centre will be a prominent landmark in the town,
sensitively accommodated within the headland.
MGA Director Tim Mosedale explains: “The design is distinctive, allowing
for the building to stand out, whilst maintaining regard for the nearby Grade
14 BI ISSUE 2 2008
v!projects
Maritime Centre To Go To
Planning Following Public
Consultation
1 listed church. The materials used will be carefully considered to also leading on a project to re-design the Visitor Centre in Jesmond
respond to often challenging coastal conditions and, as the centre Dene, as part of the wider Ouseburn Parks scheme, which also
is being planned to accommodate best practice with respect to involved MGA’s renovation of the Heaton Park pavilion. Mosedale
renewable energy, we have been exploring the use of solar panels Gillatt was established in 1995 and is renowned for its innovative
and biomass boilers, and there will also be facilities for on-site and bespoke projects across the residential, arts, commercial,
recycling and rainwater collection.” community, regeneration and historic sectors.
Richard Martin, Chair of Newbiggin by the Sea Heritage In the spirit of creativity the company also enjoys working with
Partnership added: “MGA have brought a new dimension to this professional artists as part of its design process and currently takes
iconic project which is being driven by a determined group of part in the Arts Council, Artist Placement programme.
volunteers. The establishment of this new centre will not only
showcase Newbiggin’s rich history, but also give a unique day out [w] www.mgarchitects.info
experience at the seaside which will complement the major bay
regeneration works.”
MGA’s past experience in working on coastal and tourism
developments played an important role in securing this exciting
commission. As well as the recent completion of the new
residential complex on the North East coastline, the company is
ISSUE 2 2008 BI 15
 opinion!
this months contributors :

Ian Smith, Wicona Projects

Carlo Weber, DuPont Building Innovations

Paul Absolon, CMS Acoustic Solutions

Andy Patel, Kingspan Insulated Panels

innovations

Simon Bowden, GEZE UK

Michael Driver, Brick Development

Association
building

“Get the habit of analysis- analysis will in time

enable synthesis to become your habit of mind.”

Frank Lloyd Wright

16 BI ISSUE 2 2008 ISSUE 2 2008 BI 17


Unitised Curtain Walling – Applying
Modern Methods Of Construction
To The Building Envelope
Ian Smith, Senior Manager for Wicona Projects, part of
Hydro Building Systems, discusses the increased demand
for unitised curtain walling in the UK, the advantages of
the approach and offers some practical advice to specifiers,
contractors and construction clients.
Off-site construction is revolutionising the way buildings are
built in the UK. More developers, architects and contractors
than ever before are recognising the benefits of moving
elements of the construction process into a controlled
factory environment. The build process can be speeded up,
quality is improved and work on site is significantly safer.
Breaking New Ground in Façade Design
Unitised curtain walling is designed to maximise the
benefits of building off site, allowing modern methods of
construction to be applied to the external envelope. This
approach offers a wide variety of aesthetic variations,
whilst meet the increasing demands for shorter programme
times and superior performance. It can achieve impressive
reductions in time on site of up to 70 per cent, whilst
improving safety on site. Unitised façades consist of
prefabricated units, typically the width of a glazing bay and
one or two storeys high. The unitised system is fully glazed
and sealed off site. Gaskets and glazing beads are installed
in factory controlled conditions before the complete units
are moved to site for fast and easy installation onto pre-
prepared fixings.
Reducing Site Time by up to 70 per cent
The panels can be fixed to steel or concrete frames and
are installed using a platform or hoist, reducing the need
for scaffolding and reducing work at height. Earlier fitting
out is possible, as the building envelope to each floor is
completed – leading to earlier occupation and a faster return
on investment for the client. There are cost savings on
preliminaries and scaffolding, construction is less affected
by inclement weather and the storage of cladding materials
and glass handling on site can be completely eliminated – a
major advantage for constrained city centre sites and where
access is restricted. Other advantages include improved
quality because the façade panels are completed off site;
suitability for new build and refurbishment; more efficient
control of materials, with reduced wastage, loss and damage;
and the option of standardisation to achieve economies of
scale and material optimisation.
18 BI ISSUE 2 2008
Aesthetics – Complete Freedom of Expression
The unitised approach also offers specifiers complete
freedom of expression, with any combination of profiles,
infills, external feature caps and glazing specification.
Aesthetic variations include:
Stone cladding
Metal, composite or polycarbonate panels
Windows, doors and fixed light glazing
Brise soleil sunshading
Photovoltaic panels.
A Façade Industry First
Following the increased demand for unitised curtain
walling, Hydro Building Systems, Europe’s largest supplier
of aluminium building systems, has launched Wicona
Projects in the UK to offer one of the most widely used
unitised systems in Europe and the first complete turnkey
service for the building envelope. Wicona oversees the full
façade package for its unitised curtain wall, from system
design, glass specification, fabrication, transportation and
handling, to installation, testing and site auditing.
This gives architects, contractors and construction clients
in the public and private sectors the benefit of a seamless
approach and complete peace of mind. Developed in
Germany, Wicona’s highly engineered yet proven unitised
curtain wall has been used extensively internationally on
a wide variety of high profile, technically challenging
projects. It can be used for fast track projects, adapted
to specific project requirements and new designs can be
developed for more complex façades.
Working with Unitised Façades – Some
Hints and Tips
The Design Process
Working with unitised façades is very different to
conventional ‘stick’ curtain walling and requires a change
of approach. For a successful project, which maximises
the benefits of unitised curtain walling, it is critical that a
building is designed around the façade and not vice versa.
The façade specialist should be involved at the earliest stage
to design the building structure that will best accommodate
the unitised façade and its allowable tolerances. The design
opinion!
concept should be suitable for unitisation. Flat, non-
projecting façades without overhangs will allow the units to
be hoisted into position for fast and efficient installation.
Selecting the Façade Partner
As with all façade projects, when selecting the system
supplier, the specifier should look at the manufacturer’s
track record, project portfolio, financial stability, R&D
resources, in-house facilities, technical back-up and design
experience. The façade specialist should be willing to work
as an integral part of the design team from the earliest stages
and participate in design workshops.
Consider whether the façade specialist will offer a complete
turnkey service. One single point of contact will give the
benefit of a seamless approach and complete peace of mind
from design to fabrication, site installation, testing and
handover. A team should already be in place for the façade
design, fabrication and installation.
And the specifier should always look for independent
approvals for the system and ask to see certificates and
test results for verification. Ensure façade systems are like
for like when making comparisons and that the quality of
components, technical competence of the team and best
value are assessed. Use the façade specialist for advice and
involve their team from the outset to make best use of the
expertise available.
Design Detailing
The structural integrity and built-in tolerances of the
building frame are important to the success of the façade
construction and should be specified at an early stage.
Consider what the unitised panels will be fixed to at
the design concept stage – steel or concrete? What will
the floor thicknesses be and will there be any possible
deflections? Façade projects in excess of 3,000sqm will
achieve the best economies of scale, but smaller fast track
schemes or developments on constrained city centre sites
where access is restricted, can also be accommodated with a
unitised system.
Managing the Project
Increased lead times should be scheduled to allow for
manufacturing and more time should be allowed for bespoke
schemes. The true façade cost should be considered,
including the advantages of reduced site time, eliminating
the need for scaffolding and earlier fitting out, completion
and occupation, when comparing the cost of a unitised
façade against traditional curtain walling systems. Lastly,
ensure the project is closely monitored and evaluated.
Was it delivered on time and to budget? If not, why not?
Use this information and the lessons learnt for setting the
specification for your next façade project.
[w] www.wiconaprojects.co.uk
ISSUE 2 2008 BI 19

No matter how good a vapor barrier is by itself, it cannot
be airtight unless it has been installed properly (i.e. the
connections are lastingly airtight). Moreover, the joints
between the individual pieces of sheeting have to be
permanently airtight, too. And once the interior airtight
barrier has been fitted, care must be taken to prevent it from
being mechanically perforated during subsequent work. Any
such damage caused cannot be allowed to reflect badly on
the vapor barrier’s quality.
The airtight installation of the vapor barrier is imminent to
reduce convection loss (and by that heat loss) as well as to
avoid condensation risk in the building envelope.
Expert Installation Required
Similar risks to subsequent effectiveness also apply to
the installation of the exterior breathable and waterproof
roofing membrane. Once again, permanent connection to
the adjacent components is vital for proper wind and water
proofing. In sloping roofs in particular, the membrane also
acts as the second water-shedding layer. Accordingly, work
on details of the eaves and roof penetrations such as the
chimney connection must allow the unimpeded drainage
of water - without of course neglecting continuous wind-
proofing.
opinion!
A second aspect, which is just as important for the lasting
function of roofing membranes, is its durability. Ageing and
the resulting reduced effectiveness are directly related to the
ambient conditions during installation and use.
Ageing is exacerbated by heat and UV radiation
The main factors impairing the effectiveness of roofing
membranes are temperature and UV radiation. Whether
membranes are supplied as single-layer or composite
products, it is one single layer which takes care of wind-
proofing, waterproofing and vapor breathability. This is
known as the functional layer, and its quality and thickness
are key to the durability and effectiveness of the membrane
as a whole.
Ageing Reduces Effectiveness
Temperature and UV radiation govern the ageing of roofing
membranes, including the functional layer. This ageing is
based on chemical and physical processes which, depending
on the intensity and duration of external influences,
diminish the effectiveness of the functional layer to a greater
or lesser extent. This in turn weakens or even eliminates
wind and water proofing as well as mechanical properties
such as resistance to tearing and tensile strength.

Modern roofing underlays are an important element of high-
quality pitched roof constructions.
Durability For A Long Service Life Unexpectedly High Temperatures
All these aspects related to installation have been known During installation, unexpectedly high temperatures may
for years and are repeatedly hammered home by the main occur beneath a roofing membrane fitted on top of thermal
manufacturers of roofing membranes and vapor barriers. insulation in a roof which is still exposed to the weather.

Roofing Membranes And Airtightness:

Key Issues Concerning Ageing, Quality And Durability Although it can be seen from this close-up that the cracks in
the functional layer are very small (in this case shorter than
by Carlo Weber, DuPont Building Innovations, European Technical Marketing Department about 1mm between the red marks), the roofing membrane
can no longer be regarded as waterproof.

Meeting The Demands
The EU’s Directive on the Energy Performance of Buildings
requires measures to be taken to save energy in new and
refurbished buildings all over Europe. All the member
states are now obliged to include this directive into national
legislation.
In the UK, for example, this took the form of the new Part L
regulations.The air tightness of buildings, which is created,
using air and wind tight membranes, plays an imminent
role in these new energy-saving measures. It is created in
timber-frame and wood panel walls as well as pitched roofs
by means of interior vapor barriers and exterior breathable
waterproof roofing membranes.
Important Functions
Although air tight or windproof and waterproof barriers
only make up an extremely small part of the total thickness
of wall and roof structures, their functions in terms
of building physics are absolutely vital and need to be
preserved for the lifetime of the element they are part of.
However, their effectiveness may be impaired by climate-
related effects during installation and use.
In order to be able to compile and compare the requirements
placed on the materials used, we need to start by
distinguishing between the qualities of the material itself
and the quality of its installation.
Product Quality And Installation Quality Are Equally
Crucial
All sheeting products used for the interior vapor barrier
must be permanently connected to the adjacent building
elements in an airtight manner. A lasting, airtight seal is
hence brought about by a combination of product quality
and the workmanship employed to fit it.

20 BI ISSUE 2 2008 ISSUE 2 2008 BI 21


Temperatures of the roof surface and the outside
air on 3 days in February and July 1998. They show
that the temperature of the roof surface reaches
80°C or more irrespective of the of the outside air
temperature.
opinion!
to the extremely thin functional layer, especially three-layer
membranes with microporous films are at risk. The combination
of UV impact, high temperature, wind effect and mechanical
fatigue are well known ageing factors. In composite products,
the microporous film may then become brittle by micro cracks.
These micro cracks appear not only selectively in spots but
extensively all over the composite membrane.
This is especially problematic because the difference between an
intact and a damaged composite membrane is hardly visible with
the naked eye (see the photograph showing microfine cracks in
a three-layer membrane exposed for too long to UV radiation).
This problem usually only becomes visible when the roof starts
leaking.

At times, these temperatures may even exceed 80°C.
Interestingly, the main parameters involved are not the
air temperature but the position of the sun (which at the
height of summer may be directly overhead) and the colour
of the membrane (a light-coloured membrane will not get
as hot as a dark one). Depending on their frequency and
duration, these unexpectedly high temperatures will have a
major impact on the ageing of the membrane - and hence its
effectiveness.
Damage Caused By UV Radiation
Before the roof is covered, roofing membranes suffer from
the UV radiation of sunlight. Depending on the membrane’s
chemical composition, prolonged UV radiation may cause
the plastic to become brittle. Inversely, roofing membranes
(including the functional layer) come with short, medium or
long UV stability, depending on its chemical composition.
UV stability can be enhanced by making sure the formula
used to produce a membrane includes the right additives.
Risks Of Exposure To The Elements
When roofing membranes are installed, ageing caused by
the temperature and UV radiation go hand in hand. During
construction work, roofs fitted with roofing membranes are
often left exposed for a while before tiling etc. is complete.
Quality
A general awareness on quality sensitivity of roofing and wall
Risk Factors include: membranes is currently increasing all over Europe due to the
• on-site UV exposure new harmonized standards for underlays (EN 13859-1 Underlays
• temperature peaks for discontinuous roofing and EN 13859-2 Underlays for walls).
• exposure to elements For the CE Marking and in accordance with these standards the
• micro-cracks performance after artificial ageing of water tightness, strength
An example of a functional layer which has turned brittle in and elongation must be declared by the manufacturers. Another
a three-layer product. Although invisible to the naked eye, example of quality awareness is actually in preparation for
the problem will certainly come to light when viewed under Germany.
a microscope - or when the roof starts leaking.
In order to raise the general awareness of quality the “Central
Association of German Roofing” (ZvDH) in collaboration with
the leading manufacturers is drafting a product specification
sheet for roofing membranes. The draft dated July 2006 includes
resistance to both temperature and pelting rain, and requires
the membrane’s effectiveness after defined ageing to be quoted.
Sometimes, the period stated by the manufacturer for which At the end of the day, however, these are merely attempts to
roofing membranes may be left exposed to the elements is highlight the differences between products.
exceeded. In this case, even if the functional layer appears Ultimately, it would be better to ensure that high-quality
unflawed to the eye, it can be assumed to have been products were used - especially in view of the repair costs that
permanently impaired, reducing its effectiveness. may be incurred through substandard roofing membranes.
In other words, high quality pays for itself. If a manufacturer
High Roof Temperatures decides to go on the cheap by leaving out expensive additives or
Depending on the material and colour of the roofing reducing the functional layer thickness considerably, this may
material as well as the roof’s orientation, ageing processes lower the product’s quality.
may occur during use owing to temperature peaks
throughout the roof’s lifetime. These temperature peaks Summary: Meeting The Demands
will permanently advance the ageing process, despite any Vapor barriers in modern walls and roofing membranes in
rear ventilation, possibly causing the roofing membrane to roofs are expected to fulfil a number of requirements, focused
break up. Such damage sometimes becomes apparent when on the durable air tightness of the material and its installation.
roofing material is removed (such as during the violent Furthermore, roofing membranes are always subject to
storms in Germany in early 2007). These ageing processes additional stress owing to the heat and UV radiation suffered
are doubtless accounted for by a combination of factors like during installation and sometimes also use. In order to enable
the material’s quality, the thickness of the functional layer, roofing membranes to act for example as a second water-
the length of time for which it was exposed to the weather shedding layer, the product quality - in particular the quality
when fitted, and frequent temperature peaks over the years. of the functional layer - is crucial. It simply has to meet the
expectations placed on it - and to perform its job throughout the
Micro Cracks roof’s lifetime.
If the manufacturer’s recommended exposure time is
surpassed, only a few days or weeks may be required to [w] www.buildingonscience.dupont.com
permanently ruin the effectiveness of many products. Due

22 BI ISSUE 2 2008 ISSUE 2 2008 BI 23


The Sound Of
Modern Design
The clean and minimalist style of modern building design
delivers a chic look that is favoured at specification level.
However, the hard, reflective surfaces within these spaces
results in an increased level of reverberation, which at
the very least will be mildly disruptive, and at its most
extreme, cause physical discomfort for building occupants.
Paul Absolon, technical director, CMS Acoustic Solutions,
discusses the technicalities of reverberation and how to
tackle it effectively in a range of environments.
Reverberation is created when sound waves are reflected
off surfaces within a room, such as floors, walls and
ceilings – causing one source of sound to become several.
The harder the surface, the stronger the reflection, and
the more severe the reverberation will be. Hard surfaces
are prevalent in modern building design because of an
absence of soft furnishings and the increased use of tiled
and wooden finishes. In buildings such as schools and
offices, reverberation can result in disruption, as it prevents
subsequent sound, such as speech, from being heard clearly
by the listener.
Planning And Control
While some level of reverberation is required in a room
for sound to be heard effectively, there is a point when it
actually becomes disruptive, particularly in educational
buildings. To help overcome this, legislation has been
introduced in the form of BB93, which sets the standard
for reverberation time in new build schools at 0.8 seconds.
However, a good teaching environment will typically have
24 BI ISSUE 2 2008
a reverberation time of 0.4 to 0.8 seconds, while a poor
reverberation time would be between two and 12 seconds.
Where reverberation time is at an unacceptable level, the
main method of control is to directly absorb the sound.
There are different types of absorber available, the selection
of which will depend on the level of absorption required.
Natural Sound Absorbers
These are soft furnishings, such as upholstered furniture,
curtains, carpets and cushions. Due to the open cell
structure of soft materials, they naturally absorb sound and
prevent some of it from reflecting and travelling onwards.
This is why the absence of soft furnishings, in line with
minimalist styling, has made reverberation a modern
acoustic challenge.
Porous Absorber / Anechoic Material
An open cell or fibrous material that dissipates the sound
energy within its structure. The sound is deflected inside the
material, the friction from which converts it into low-level
heat. In terms of performance, the thicker the material the
higher the absorption capacity, because there will be more
cells through which the sound energy can deflect.
Resonant Absorber
This works in a similar way to a porous absorber, in that
friction converts the sound energy into low-level heat.
However, it does this by holding the sound in an air cavity,
allowing it to vibrate in the enclosed space. The volume
of air also helps mute the sound, offering a two-pronged
approach to reverberation control.
Where very high levels of reverberation are apparent, a
porous absorber with a resonant element would be used.
Best practice is to account for reverberation at the start of
a development, by ensuring that the room volume is of a
sufficient size – certainly more than 25m3 – and there are
not too many reflective surfaces. Designing a room with
a suspended ceiling will also help as this creates a void
that will act as a resonant absorber. In reality, outside of
developments governed by BB93, remedial cases emerge
because the acoustics within an environment are not always
considered as important as the control of sound between
spaces, as with Part E for residential developments.
This may change in the future as reverberation amplification
in an apartment can raise sound levels to such an extent
that it travels between dwellings, when it may not have at
site testing stage. Reverberation amplification results in a
higher sound start point than would be considered normal.
For example, a television in a normally furnished apartment
measures approximately 70dB. However, the same television
in an apartment with no standard soft furnishings, could
reach as high as 76dB.
This increased sound level can result in sound travelling
between dwellings when it would not have at 70dB.
Remedial scenarios arise for a number of reasons, including
the actual noise levels being higher than anticipated, or the
reverberation arising as an issue in non-teaching areas, such
as dining rooms.
Identifying Solutions
Depending on the environment, there are a number of
different acoustic solutions that can be implemented,
incorporating either a porous or resonant absorber method.
Where a remedial solution is necessary, the constraints and
the practicalities of an environment must be considered
simultaneously with available budget. A remedial
reverberation solution in a school would probably be
different to that in an art gallery or theatre for example.
Acoustic Wall Coverings
Reverberation is commonly controlled using acoustic
wall coverings. These are available in various formats to
accommodate flexibility of use and design requirements.
For example, tiles or rolls might be used to achieve total
wall coverage, and as these are available in a wide range of
colours, they can become part of the interior design. Some
materials do not fray when cut, which means logos or even
a detailed mural can be created on the wall area. If total
coverage is not feasible or appropriate, a few tiles can be
installed on the wall and used as a pin board. Acoustic wall
coverings are also ideal for areas where there is likely to
be impact, such as sports halls and corridors – areas where
reverberation is a common problem. While acoustic wall
coverings are available in a range of absorption classes,
they are most frequently used where Class C absorption is
opinion!
required. As they are retrospectively applied, acoustic wall
coverings are suited to both new build and remedial works.
Wall Panels
An alternative to complete or partial wall coverage is
to install bespoke acoustic panels. These offer superior
absorption to the wall coverings due to their increased
thickness, and are generally used where Class A or B
absorption is necessary. As they are manufactured to order
on a bespoke basis, they can be colour and size matched to
meet any requirement. This means effective reverberation
control can be achieved without changing the existing
interior environment. According to application requirement,
acoustic panels can be installed in a variety of different
ways. The two most common methods of installation that
offer non-visible fixing systems are fixing clips and fabric
covered metal strips. For increased performance, the panels
can be installed on timber battens. This creates an air void
in addition to the anechoic material which gives some
free absorptive performance by using the air space. They
can also be installed as a suspended product where fixing
to the wall is not feasible or will not deliver the required
performance.
Accommodating Design
Providing that the implication of reverberation time is
considered at project inception, it is possible to achieve
effective sound control in any environment, by either
planning natural absorbers into the interior design or
creating spaces for the sound to travel into. Where
reverberation times arise as an issue post completion, all
is not lost, because innovative acoustic materials can be
planned in retrospectively and without compromising the
style of the building. CMS Acoustics is the UK’s largest
provider of construction and industrial acoustic products
from a single source.
[w] www.cmsacoustics.co.uk
ISSUE 2 2008 BI 25

Composite
Insulated Panels For
Energy Efficient
Refurbishment
By Andy Patel, Divisional Technical Manager
Kingspan Insulated Panels
There is currently much talk about how modern construction
methods can help to minimise energy consumption, thereby
reducing our harmful carbon dioxide emissions. Whilst the
move towards carbon-neutral new homes is an important
step, in addition we need to look at how we can deal with
the large amount of emissions from existing buildings. In
the past, low fuel costs meant there was little call for older
buildings to have the high levels of energy efficiency that we
expect today.
As a result, these buildings are a big contributor to carbon
dioxide emissions. A recent parliamentary enquiry
highlighted the problem with poor performance in many of
the UK’s homes, but we must also look at larger domestic
and non-domestic buildings if we are serious about reducing
our carbon footprint. The thermal performance of a building
envelope can have a major bearing on this issue, as a large
amount of energy escapes as heat through the walls and
roof. This leads to greater reliance on heating systems, and
therefore more carbon dioxide emissions.
Refurbishment projects offer a chance to make building
envelope elements such as walls and roofing more energy
efficient under the standards set down in Approved
26 BI ISSUE 2 2008
Documents L1B and L2B. In addition, the impending
Energy Performance Certificates (EPC’s) and Display
Energy Certificates (DEC’s) look set to provide further
impetus for refurbishers to take such matters into account.
Across a variety of domestic and non-domestic
refurbishment projects, composite insulated panel systems
can offer a number of key performance-based advantages.
This article will look at how these systems can help in
minimising the carbon dioxide emissions of existing
buildings by improving building envelope energy efficiency
both in line with current Building Regulations and with one
eye on the influence of EPC’s and DEC’s.
ADL1B and ADL2B
Composite insulated panels have the thermal performance
and low air permeability to make a significant contribution
to Building Regulations compliance. The 2006 Building
Regulations Approved Documents L1B (ADL1B) and L2B
(ADL2B) are the current benchmarks for the conservation of
fuel and power in, respectively, domestic and non-domestic
refurbishment projects.
Standards are set for replacement thermal elements, and
developers need to ensure that where possible refurbishment
projects meet these stipulations. ADL1B and ADL2B
contain specific U-value standards for replacement thermal
elements such as walls or roofing, which neither the entire
replacement element nor any part of it should exceed. For a
roof with integral insulation this figure is 0.25 W/m²K, and
composite panels can help to ensure this is easily reached.
Typically, a panel of this nature is composed of two steel
facings with a PIR core in between and is capable of
attaining excellent U-values – as low as 0.16 W/m²K when a
panel thickness of 120mm is specified.
The extensive renovation of Manningham Mills in Bradford
is just one example of a refurbishment project that has made
good use of a composite system; over 2000m² of composite
roofing panels were used to help convert the derelict
industrial premises into a landmark residential development.
The £17 million project has provided 130 new apartments
for the city, and as developers were seeking a roofing
system capable of providing efficient regulatory compliance,
composite insulated panels fitted the bill.
Of course, high profile projects like Manningham
require aesthetic demands to be balanced with regulatory
compliance. Composite insulated panel systems are now
available with various aesthetic innovations to provide
greater design flexibility, including those capable of
supporting traditional roofing products such as slates and
ceramic tiles. These are ideal for the refurbishment of larger
domestic buildings such as blocks of flats, where visual
impact is a key requirement yet compliance with Building
Regulations cannot be compromised.mFrom apartment
blocks through to factories and distribution centres,
composite insulated panels are capable of providing suitable
performance for meeting the relevant legislation.
Importantly, ADL1B and ADL2B instruct that reasonable
provision should be taken to avoid thermal bridging and
minimise air permeability. The air leakage rates achievable
with composite panels, around 5m³/hr/m² or better, means
that they can also make a significant contribution to low
air permeability. Furthermore, as a composite insulated
panel roof is a single component system, thermal bridging
problems that may arise between the different components
of other roofing systems are eradicated.
EPC’s and DEC’s
Whilst Building Regulations are primarily of concern to
the developer, the introduction of Energy Performance
Certificates will mean owners, landlords and tenants have
a greater vested interest in the energy efficiency of their
building. As of April 6th, obtaining an EPC for all new
dwellings and for the sale or rent of all new or existing non-
dwellings with over 10,000m² of floor area will become law.
By October 1st, certificates will have been phased in for all
buildings regardless of size or usage. Certification consists
of a simple grading from A to G for both energy efficiency
and CO2 emissions. Potential buyers and tenants will
be looking for properties with a rating as close to “A” as
possible, as this signifies that the building is likely to have
lower energy costs and less of an impact on the environment.
The intention is that EPC’s will increase transparency on
building performance, in turn increasing awareness amongst
potential buyers and through this influencing saleability.
In the residential market, a high EPC rating could give
a development the edge over other projects without the
same energy efficiency. Similarly, the prospect of greater
overheads because of poor energy efficiency could have a
bearing on whether a company decides to rent an office.
Clearly, where a building is to be refurbished and sold or
rented for profit, achieving a high EPC rating could well
opinion!
have a positive effect on profit and speed of sale. A key part
of the assessment procedure for all EPC’s is to look at the
thermal characteristics – how it retains and loses heat – of a
building, including air-tightness.
The thermal performance of a building is integral to its
overall energy performance, and so a simple way to improve
energy efficiency and therefore achieve a better EPC grade
is to specify building envelope materials with good thermal
insulation and air-tightness properties. An important aspect
in relation to this is the mandatory reassessment required
every time a building is to be sold (unless the EPC is less
than twelve months old), placing greater pressure to specify
materials capable of maintaining high levels of energy
efficiency. Display Energy Certificates come into effect on
1st October this year.
Although they are currently only mandatory for public
service buildings with over 1000m² of usable floor space,
they look set to be influential within this sphere and the
government hopes to introduce them for private sector
buildings in the near future. The key to the efficacy of
DEC’s is that they require the actual energy usage of the
building to be publicly displayed. They are to be reassessed
every twelve months, with previous ratings displayed next
to the current one to highlight any improvement or decline
in performance. DEC’s look set to exert a considerable
influence, especially with buildings where the public have a
clear vested interest, such as council offices.
Any refurbishment work in this sector needs to take into
account that the public image of the occupying authority or
organisation could suffer if a poor DEC rating is given. Put
simply, a building with good energy efficiency will mean
lower consumption and a higher DEC rating. The format of
both EPC’s and DEC’s makes the installation of efficient
roofing and cladding materials an important factor. As
highlighted earlier, composite insulated panel systems can
provide good thermal performance and low air permeability,
and because of this can have a considerable influence on the
rating a building achieves.
Composite insulated panels are not affected by air
movement, or attacked by mould, fungi or mildew, making
them a reliable long-term option.
Complying with Building Regulations and ensuring high
energy certificate ratings are important considerations for
anyone undertaking a refurbishment project. With emphasis
on energy efficiency, the thermal performance and low air
leakage of composite panel systems can provide a valuable
contribution to achieving compliant U-value standards, as
well as the efficiency and durability needed to help achieve
and maintain high EPC and DEC ratings.
[w] www.kingspanpanels.com
ISSUE 2 2008 BI 27

GEZE UK’s Simon Bowden tackles the access issues created by energy
efficiency legislation in the new Approved Document Part L.
Reducing a building’s carbon footprint through eco-
friendly design is already big news in the construction
industry but new legislation to improve energy
efficiency in retail and office space looks set to
create another hot potato for architects, specifiers and
constructors.
With many retail and office buildings requiring
sustained heating throughout the winter and cooling
throughout the summer to benefit staff, maintaining
a constant temperature is essential to reduce
unnecessary energy consumption and reduce the
carbon footprint. The new energy efficiency legislation
now encompasses entrances, setting a new challenge
for access specialists.
From new product development, to the elemental
impact of an entrance’s location, the access point to a
building will become a major obstacle for many, in the
need to prevent heat loss and gain.
By its very nature, an access point must allow
movement between the outside and inside of a
28 BI ISSUE 2 2008
property, which generates potential energy loss.
The access point must also be convenient to use,
durable for high footfall sites, comfortable for staff
working in the proximity of the entrance, accessible
for all as well as being aesthetically pleasing.
Specialists in access control systems are already
working on new products and techniques to improve
the energy efficiency of entrances, but the original
challenge lies with the architect, who must plan the
site and style of each entrance with energy efficiency
in mind. It has never been more important for
specialists, builders and architects to work together
– simple decisions made at the design stage, can have
serious implications for the energy efficiency of the
building once it is in use.
By situating a main entrance on the side of a building
that is exposed to the elements, for example with
prevailing winds or in strong sunlight, makes it more
difficult for a satisfactory level of efficiency to be
achieved. Incorporating a staggered entrance system
will also help to preserve energy and prevent heat loss or
gain, but this needs to be considered at the initial design
stage, rather than compromising the vision of the architect at
a later date.
GEZE UK is already working with developers to enhance
the efficiency of their entrances, using a combination of
design techniques and new products. Revolving doors
provide a manual option to create an energy efficient
entrance, that limits traffic flow as well as the loss of
heat and avoiding blasts of hot or cold air which are
uncomfortable for staff.
Intelligent sensing on automatic doors ensures that entrances
are fully accessible, but by using unidirectional radar
sensors, the doors are only open when a user approaches
but not when departing the entrance thus greatly reducing
‘hold open’ time by 40 per cent, therefore enhancing its
energy efficiency. Responding quickly to issues is also
a key element of maintaining energy efficiency once the
building is in use. Ongoing maintenance and experienced,
local service teams are an essential component; ensuring
opinion!
doors remain efficient and effective. Glass entrances can be
designed using efficient Low E coated glass that reflects UV
rays, or using halogen filled double-glazing, which buffers
heat loss and gain even more effectively. This is why it is
so important for everyone in the industry to start talking,
sharing ideas and pooling expertise to develop solutions
that not only comply with legislation, but reduce the costs
of running the building and help towards preserving the
environment.
So will the energy efficiency issue spur the industry to
work together to create innovative, sustainable solutions,
which will improve the efficiency, effectiveness and
aesthetics of entrances? One thing’s for sure – every part of
the construction industry will be handling this hot potato.
Simon Bowden is GEZE UK’s Technical Director. He has
25 years’ experience in the automatic door, window and gate
industry. GEZE is one of the world’s leading manufacturers
of door and window control systems.
[w] www.geze-uk.com
ISSUE 2 2008 BI 29

Brick Benefits
Brick not only looks great, it lasts for centuries, requires
very little maintenance, it’s made from an abundant natural
material, it goes comfortably with other building materials,
and it can be adapted as a building changes use. Brick
dissipates all its embodied energy over its life in the average
building, it offers high thermal mass, it can be recycled
in a price probe by the RICS.
Brick is big in the sustainability stakes and the top pick and, as recent research shows, it’s less expensive than most
other types of walling. Brick has long been a favourite
Michael Driver, Director of the Brick Development Association (BDA) reports. among architects, developers and the public. Its warm and
humanising character brings buildings to life. An external
brick wall adds scale, colour and texture. Then there’s the
choice.
Around 1200 different varieties of brick are produced in
the UK alone, from handmade bricks made by traditional
techniques to mass produced extruded and stock bricks.
Brick blends easily and naturally with its surroundings
and will not rot, rust, erode or decay. Yet this unique set
of attributes is twinned with exceptionally low cost – most
bricks are priced like a commodity. Compared with glass,
steel and timber-based cladding systems, brickwork enjoys
the lowest installed cost and whole-life cost. A recent study
by the RICS spells this out in graphic, comprehensive detail.
The study, commissioned by the BDA, took a range of
data, from major price books to bills of quantities from live
projects. The UK projects ranged in value from £356,000 to
£10.5 million.
The RICS’ Building Cost Information Service compared
the installed cost per square metre for brickwork and facing
brick came in at £59m2, which is less than proprietary
render systems and just two thirds the price of timber
weatherboarding. Curtain walling is nearly eight times
more expensive, patent glazing nearly nine times. Cheaper
materials included single-fibre cement sheeting and painted
render. Such options have a lower life expectancy or higher
life cycle costs than brick.
Compare this proven performance with, say, the price of
timber, which rose more than 25% for imported softwood
last year and is predicted to rise further, or glazed cladding,
which has been hit by soaring costs for glass, aluminium
and stainless steel. With the building materials industry
heavily reliant on imports – and the price inflation that goes
with it – the ready availability of brick, short lead times
for brickwork and competitive pricing, brick offers a major
competitive advantage. Brick also wins high marks for its
environmental cost – an increasingly influential part of
building design.
BREEAM’s Green Guide scores all brick construction A+,
the best ratings. And its carbon footprint? A square metre
of brickwork produces 28 kg of carbon dioxide by the time
it’s delivered to site. That equates to 0.0001867 tonnes per
square metre a year, over 150 years. A very small footprint.
So as brick ages its embodied energy becomes insignificant.
Worries about carbon miles dog many imported natural
materials such as stone and timber, which are currently
sourced from all over the world. Brick, on the other hand,
30 BI ISSUE 2 2008
opinion!
has always tended to be made and delivered locally. But
now, as we are just beginning to understand the massive
carbon cost of shipping, the carbon footprint of brick looks
even more attractive. As early as 2001, the BDA set out
its sustainability strategy. Rather more than earnest good
intentions, this strategy was accompanied by a range of
key performance indicators by which the brick industry’s
progress could be measured.
Each BDA member has an environmental management
system in place and 85% of UK brick output is certified to
ISO 14001. Very little clay is wasted during manufacture.
Unfired waste clay is reused in the manufacturing process
and less than perfect fired bricks are crushed and reused
as aggregate. Alternative recycled and secondary sources
average 12.08% and brickmakers are looking to raise it
further. Steel, aluminium and glass can be melted down and
used again, some plastics can be heat and pressure-formed
into sheets and special shapes. Brick too can be crushed and
re-used on site – and old lime mortar bricks can be cleaned
up and used again as bricks.
Finally, sustainability is not just about recycling and the use
of carbon-free materials. Nor is it just about the embodied
energy accrued through the process of sourcing, production
and transport. It is about the whole-life energy consumption
of a product. The crucial additional element in any
sustainability calculation is how much it costs to look after a
product once it has become part of a building. It is here that
brick people start looking satisfied because the evidence is
all around us that brick only gets better and better as it gets
older.
And the cost in use of this highly durable material is
virtually zero as it requires very little maintenance or
repair. With reasonable maintenance, a brick wall will last
indefinitely. Repointing might be necessary after 70 years
but apart from that no regular maintenance is required.
What’s more, brick weathers gracefully – the elements
soften it, round off the edges, provide it with a patina,
sometimes plants and lichens grow on it. It is the most
mellow, most sustainable of building materials.
[w] www.brick.org.uk
ISSUE 2 2008 BI 31
 gallery!
picture perfect projects :

Architectural Ceramics (UK) Ltd 34

Daedalian Glass 36

Arch Timber Protection 38

Siegenia-Aubi 40
innovations
building

“Beauty is the oracle that speaks to us all”

Luis Barragan

32 BI ISSUE 2 2008 ISSUE 2 2008 BI 33

 GALLERY!
Cutting Edge Design
Architectural Ceramics (UK) Ltd has carefully built an enviable reputation as the
UK’s leading specialist in the project specification market for hard finishes.
The company works with a whole host of blue-chip corporate companies, either
directly or, more often, together with architects and interior designers, within the
retail, commercial, hotel & leisure, office development & refurbishment and the
industrial and public sectors. The
company provides a first class
technical and sales support service,
including product performance
analysis, fit for purpose statements,
NBS fixing specifications,
plus cleaning and maintenance
programmes.
Approved by RIBA to present
informative CPD Seminars,
Architectural Ceramics (UK) Ltd is
also a long-standing member of the
Tile Trade Association.
Offering advice on sustainable design and provide environmentally sensitive
solutions, the company recognises that its activities have an impact on the
environment, so in all working practices and business relationships, it is committed
to protecting, conserving and enhancing all aspects of the environment over which it
may have some control or influence.
Architectural Ceramics supply a huge selection of products from a wide cross-section
of Europe’s premier ceramic tile manufacturers and, for the past eighteen years, has
been the exclusive UK partners of Royal Mosa, the award-winning Dutch ceramics
company. Architectural Ceramics (UK) Ltd has now introduced its own exclusive
new collection, based on comprehensive market research and development.
Zenith Tiles & Mosaics - This conceptual range of contemporary products offers a
truly outstanding collection of tiles and mosaic in a vast array of finishes, shapes,
sizes, colours and materials, including porcelain, natural stone, ceramic, marble,
glass and metal.
Innovative New Products - Every year the company launches a variety of new
collections and initiatives to further improve its range of products, professional
services and technical support.
In 2008 it is adding even more new ranges including burnished metallic tiles for
floors and walls; large format plain colours; stunning satin, textured and sparkly
finishes; beautiful glass and natural stone mosaic; and an absolutely amazing range
of gigantic 1200x1200mm porcelain floor tiles!
Tile Cutting Service - Architectural Ceramics (UK) Ltd has recently made a
substantial investment in state-of-the-art machinery (as used by many of Italy’s
major manufacturers) for precision cutting tiles and strips. This service is totally
unique within the UK project specification market and demonstrates a long-term
commitment to providing a first class service.

s ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 1
www.buildinginnovations.co.uk/card

34 BI ISSUE 2 2008 ISSUE 2 2008 BI 35

 GALLERY!
Bovey Castle, a luxury hotel on the edge of Dartmoor
National Park in Devon, has recently undergone
extensive refurbishment of its restaurant and meeting
areas. This has included the creation of the Castle
Bistro, which serves snacks, lunches and dinners in
a smart, but informal, atmosphere. Daedalian Glass,
working with Trevillion Interiors has succeeded
in bringing into the Bistro the atmosphere of
Dartmoor with its wild, wind-blown trees, using
a new glass lamination process with printed film
inserts. The dynamism of the finished project
emphasises the quality textures and materials used,
whilst complementing the Bistro’s ambience and its
insistence on a top quality food experience for its
guests.
Davia Walmsley and Luke Price, two of Daedalian’s
designers have worked closely on previous projects
with Frances Blackham, design director at Trevillion.
Starting with a verbal brief, the two looked at the
various processes available, taking account of costs in
relation to budgetary constraints. The understanding
between the two companies is such that both
appreciated the time that needs to be put in to ensure
the end result is absolutely spot-on. The idea of
laminating printed film with organic inclusions between multi layers of glass was developed by Daedalian
for an art exhibition last year. Building on that experience, Daedalian now has its own state-of-the-art EVA
laminating equipment.
With EVA laminate, air is removed from between the glass whilst being heated. Even if any inserts are not
flat – they can be flowers, leaves, crumpled fabric, or printed film as at Bovey Castle – as the air is removed
the heated EVA resin

Laminated Panels Make A

flows into and around
the insert, completing
the sealing process. At

Dramatic Divider For Bovey

Bovey Castle, Daedalian
used a very white, low
iron glass. It works

Castle’s Bistro
incredibly well with
the orange printed film
inserts used. In this
instance, they are an
orange that fades from dark to light , adding dramatically to the slightly skeletal appearance of the trees.
The four laminated panels reach from floor to ceiling, making an eye-catching partial room divider in the
Castle Bistro.
With its own laminating kiln now installed, Daedalian is producing a range of proprietary designs specifically
adapted for lamination. They are able to use any Pantone or RAL colours, as well as fabric and mesh inserts.
Clients can also work with Daedalian to produce bespoke designs, such as were used at Bovey Castle’s Bistro.
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36 BI ISSUE 2 2008 ISSUE 2 2008 BI 37


The exterior oak cladding used on the building, which sits
on the site of the last battle fought on British soil, is Non-
Com Exterior treated, providing a surface spread of flame
in accordance with BS476:Part 7. Similarly, the interior oak
cladding has a Dricon protection, the only fire retardant
treatment for timber with BBA accreditation. The building
was designed by Gareth Hoskins Architects’ after winning
the international competition for a major new visitor
centre at Culloden. Morrison Construction have built the
2,300 sqm, single-storey attraction which opened during
Scotland’s Year of Highland Culture in 2007.
The project has been developed for the National Trust for
Scotland and uses the landscape along with an interpretive
exhibition to tell the story of the battle. The project which
has an approximate value of just over £9m uses oak for
both internal and external cladding which was treated at
Arch’s facility in Castleford. Culloden is the largest project
undertaken by the Trust and reflects the huge impact the
Battle of Culloden had on the course of world history. The
project involves restoring the Battlefield to how it looked in
1746 and the state-of-the-art visitor centre. Dricon treatment
was also used to fire treat 145 display panels, printed by
Leach Colour Limited of Huddersfield using specialised UV
printing techniques.
The boards measured approximately 2.4m by 1.4m and were
CNC cut into random quadrilaterals before being fitted
together like a giant jigsaw within the centre. The quality
of the printed images was maintained even after being
The new visitor centre at Culloden battlefield recently utilised both Dricon and Non-Com Exterior fire retardants pressure treated with
treatments from Arch Timber Protection to protect the interior and exterior timbers of the project.
Arch Protects Historic
Battlefield Centre At Culloden
The newly opened visitor centre at the historic battlefield
of Culloden in Scotland has been protected by two of
Arch’s unique fire retardant treatments, Dricon and
Non-Com Exterior. The stunning new building, built by
Morrison Construction and which houses an interpretation
of the battle, its prehistory and aftermath, and includes
educational and conference facilities, a café, restaurant,
shop and staff accommodation, has had its internal and
external oak cladding protected with Arch fire retardant
treatments to help ensure its natural beauty and fire safety
are maintained.
38 BI ISSUE 2 2008
GALLERY!
Dricon by Arch. Andy Cope, Project Manager from Leach
Colour said: “We are delighted with the results. We had
searched for a solution to make the boards fire retardant
whilst preserving the quality of the graphics. We were about
to resign ourselves to the fact that it may not be possible,
when Richard Adams, Fire Retardants Manager from Arch
Timber Protection stepped in to help us through the process.
Using the two sets of very specialist skills we were able
to deliver exactly what our client required to a very high
specification”.
The £9m project was designed by Gareth Hoskins
Architects’ after winning the international competition for
the new centre. Morrison Construction completed the 2,300
sq m, single-storey attraction which was commissioned as
part of Scotland’s Year of Highland Culture in 2007.
The project has been developed for the National Trust for
Scotland and uses the atmospheric landscape along with
an interpretive exhibition to tell the story of the battle.
Culloden is the largest project undertaken by the Trust and
also involved the restoration of the actual battlefield to how
it looked in 1746.
“We are delighted to be involved in such an historic project
as the Culloden visitor centre,” explained Arch marketing
manager Janet Brown. “It is gratifying to see natural
materials being used to create a building that blends into the
landscape yet loses not of its impact as a structure in its own
right.”
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 GALLERY!
A unique futuristic house in Suffolk, which has been shortlisted for the Grand
Designs Home of the Year, has used SIEGENIA-AUBI hardware to help bring
a touch of the outdoors indoors. The two storey, seven bedroomed house is
carefully positioned on the edge of a woodland area known as the Wilderness,
where the landscaping has been essential in bringing a country feel to the bold,
sculpted property. A key feature of the wilderness house is the vast amount of
glass, which frames the stunning views.
The large 50ft long living room features a series of full height sliding glass
doors, which open out onto the terraces and the landscape. SIEGENIA-AUBI
HS-Portal hardware has made this possible, by allowing unrestricted opening
widths of up to 12 metres and more than 19 metres of total opening width. Paul
+ O Architects, a London practice, has been involved in the project from the
very beginning.

Siegenia-Aubi Steps
The firm helped obtain planning permission, and has developed the design
with a vision to create a modern country house. Paul+O have in this instance
preferred to use traditional building materials in a contemporary way,

Into The Wilderness

including local flint stone, oak and render, which make reference to the local
vernacular.

Into The Wilderness

Says Paulo Marto of Paul + O Architects, “The SIEGENIA-AUBI HS-Portal
hardware has helped us achieve what we wanted. When the doors are closed,
the hardware seals the whole of the locking side. The doors are fitted with

Siegenia-Aubi Steps
gap ventilation as standard and just by turning the handle you can let fresh air
into the room. “It was important to the building design that a natural method
of air conditioning could be created through the sliding glass walls, and we
took a number of considerations to reduce the building’s overall impact on the
environment.
“Solar panels were installed on the flat roof to heat the pool and much of the
domestic hot water, while rainwater harvesting can be used for flushing the
toilet and watering plants. “The house has very high standards of insulation,
including low-emissivity glass, and SIEGENIA-AUBI’s new highly insulated
threshold goes well beyond the requirements of the energy conservation
regulations.”

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40 BI ISSUE 2 2008 ISSUE 2 2008 BI 41

 the book!
news 44-49
environmental control 50-58
doors, windows & glazing 58-66
roofs 67-70
walls 71-75
floors 76-80
innovations

paints & coatings 81

external work 82-83
interiors 84-86
projects 87-99
building

“Men can do all things if they will”

Leon Battista Alberti

42 BI ISSUE 2 2008 ISSUE 2 2008 BI 43


Polypipe’s Extensive Drainage Product Range
Polypipe continues to respond to the demand
for more rigorous drainage systems with
innovative product developments. In above
ground drainage, Polypipe offers a range
of PVCu soil and vent systems, available
in easy-to-apply ring seal push-fit and the
slimline Solvent weld system 2000 version.
In waste systems, the company offers Solvent
weld MuPVC and ABS, as well as Push Fit
and compression systems in polypropylene.
Polypipe’s above ground drainage range
is completed by a choice of five types of
rainwater systems.
Below ground, Polypipe’s line-up includes
short and long radius and adjustable bends, junctions, gulleys, reducers, risers, traps, hoppers, adaptors
and couplers. Redeveloped foam core PVCu pipes offer a competitive alternative to EN1401-1 products.
Polypipe offers a safe choice with Polysewer, a complete system for adoptable surface, foul and combined
sewers. Polypipe’s stormwater solutions include Polystorm and Polystorm Lite. These lightweight modular
water storage cells feature a high void ratio, and are designed for attenuation or infiltration of stormwater.
Completing the system is a wide range of silt traps, flow control units and adaptors.
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New Promat Durasteel
Website Highlights
Exceptional Fire Protection
Specifiers and clients hunting the solution
to their exceptional fire protection needs
are being offered an invaluable online
resource. Promat UK has launched a
new website for its fit-and-forget fire
barrier, Promat Durasteel. The site, www.
promat-durasteel.co.uk provides a simple
yet comprehensive rundown on the
market-leading product, its applications
and specifications. Promat Durasteel is
a complete containment system – its
exceptional fire protection, high-impact
and blast resistance are combined with
lightness and durability. It can withstand
prolonged exposure to fire and, while hot,
will withstand spray from fire-fighters’
hoses or sprinkler action.
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44 BI ISSUE 2 2008
B/i : the book!
New Website For Design & Protective Coating For
CPD Seminar Now Available For
Display Structures Exterior Timber Detailing
Lindab’s Rainline System
Bespoke GRP Sadolin Superdec coating provides
expert Design Lindab can now offer architects a CPD seminar, which opaque exterior wood protection for
& Display details the product benefits and technical aspects of timber detailing, excluding decking.
Structures has their Rainline steel based rainwater system. Rainline, Its formulation
launched a manufactured in Sweden from high quality, zinc coated combines alkyd
new website. galvanised steel, provides a cost effective and eco and acrylic resins
Through project friendly alternative to plastic, aluminium or cast iron – the alkyd
case studies, drainage. It is highly resistant to corrosion, virtually content gives the
it shows how maintenance free and the component parts simply benefit of greater
the company’s comprehensive design click together for a perfect watertight fit. Available absorption into
and installation package is helping in Aluzinc, copper and eight attractive high build the substrate and
and specifiers push the boundaries of polyester paint finishes Rainline is fully recyclable and the acrylic assists
design. These include everything from provides a sustainable and cost effective alternative with flexibility, producing an increased
award winning university buildings and rainwater control solution. Lindab’s CPD seminar life span. Superdec is formulated to
landmark retail developments to 18m typically takes around an hour and the style of the cope with the natural movement of the
high sculptures and the UK’s first ever presentation lends itself to groups of 5 -10. timber, and gives a uniform appearance
permanently iced, elevated toboggan run. which is long lasting.
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Prater & Ruukki Launch Off-Site Manufactured Solutions DVD Cape Cod – Two New Profiles And Now
Specialist envelope contractor Prater and manufacturer Ruukki have Available In Any Colour You Want
produced a DVD designed to help specifiers, contractors and Cape Cod, natural and sustainable
building owners understand more fully the benefits of using timber cladding designed to give that
off–site manufactured solutions for roofs and walls. Featuring genuine New England look, is now
live action footage of two projects the companies were available with two new profiles and
involved with, the DVD tracks the an infinite range of colour options.
design and manufacture of roofing The two new profiles, Channel and
and wall elements from Ruukki’s Rainscreen, have been launched to
factories through to delivery at coincide with the product’s rapid
site and installation by Prater. growth into the commercial market.
It contains interviews with the Custom colours are also available in
Operations Director from one of the Certification Is The Name addition to 10 standard colours. Cape
main contractors, who explains why
Of The Game Cod, which is exclusively imported
they specified an off–site manufactured into the UK by Vincent Timber Ltd, is
solution for Queen Alexandra Hospital produced from kiln dried wood, band
and personnel from Prater and Ruukki who
With increasing demands for best practice
by Architects and Local Authorities, sawn to give a textured face. Two coats
describe how they perceive the benefits from an of water based paint are then applied.
the need to self-certificate their work
installer and manufacturer perspective. The DVD is free The end result is a low maintenance timber cladding with a 15 year warranty.
on passive fire installation will become
of charge and is available from Prater and Ruukki.
obligatory. The Passive Fire Training
Centre offers a course which shows the s ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 13 www.buildinginnovations.co.uk/card
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practicalities of fire stopping. The centre
will enable participants the opportunity
Simpson Strong-Tie Launch Specialist Academy To of achieving self – certification status, Valspar Delivers Red Hot Savings
through The Nationwide Association of
Support Quik Drive Customers Passive Fire Installers and Specifiers Powder coating supplier Valspar has introduced
Simpson Strong-Tie has revolutionised its after- membership scheme which is committed to new technology to adapt one of its top selling
sales support with the launch of the Quik Drive ensuring that all buildings are constructed products to deliver energy savings of up to 40%
Academy, designed to provide Quik Drive distributors by competent tradesmen with the for its customers across Europe. It’s calculated
with a greater understanding of the auto-feed maximum use of fire protection properties to save millions of pounds in lower energy bills,
screwing systems. The one-day course provides an inbuilt into the fabric of the property. a major step forward in the battle to minimise
overview of the product and incorporates a brief Each participant will be issued with a climate change. Building on the success of Valspar’s
theory session followed by comprehensive hands-on membership card and a certificate, will Syntha Pulvin brand, the company has achieved
training, culminating in a competitive team event be responsible for the fire stopping they a revolutionary breakthrough to speed up the
and issue of delegate certificates. All distributors install, and will sign off their own work. chemical reaction during curing to create the next
who attend receive point of sale material and on-site Members will be regularly checked by generation in coatings able to “bake” at 20°C lower
presentation equipment to assist with promoting independent assessors and their names will than before. The low bake product will use up to up
Quik Drive to the end-user. Confident demonstration be listed on www.napfis.co.uk web site. to 40% less energy. It will cut customers’ fuel bills and reduce carbon emissions. Valspar claim to have
of Quik Drive’s benefits is paramount for promoting achieved the same outstanding mechanical performance and weathering characteristics as their high
the product’s potential to end-users, as these are immediately apparent when the system is in use. s ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 12 temperature counterparts.
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ISSUE 2 2008 BI 45

Simpson Strong-Tie Strengthens Team To Offer Specialist
Advice As I-Joist Market Changes
Following current shifts in the I-
Joist market, Simpson Strong-Tie has
responded swiftly with the recruitment
of one of the industry’s leading experts,
Sales Manager Stuart McBean, to both
help customers through the transition
and add valuable resource to its
expanding Engineered Timber Division
(ETD). Richard Jarvis, Head of Simpson’s
ETD, explains the move: “Having gained a
wealth of unrivalled experience in trussed
rafters, timber frame and engineered
floor systems, Stuart will be working
with our National Sales Manager for EWP,
John Young, to advise and support all our
existing and new customers during this
important transition period.
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Ash & Lacy’s Team Of Experts
Continues To Grow
The knowledge and experience at Ash
& Lacy Building systems is on the rise
with the appointment of Chris Mitchell
as Project Manager. Chris has 25 years
experience in the roofing and cladding
industry and his new role will cover two
key areas in enabling sustainable growth.
The first is inline with Ash & Lacy’s
dedication to business partnerships and
expanding their portfolio and will involve
identifying project opportunities through
strategic partnering agreements, assisting
in business development management
and providing support to the Area Sales
Manager network. Chris will also be
operating as a link between product
development and marketing, providing
information that is essential to the
development of future innovations within
the product range.
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46 BI ISSUE 2 2008
Internet Roofing Systems
Rigidal Systems has launched a
completely redesigned website to provide
both specifiers and contractors with
comprehensive
information on
all its products
and services.
The new site
is particularly
easy to
navigate,
providing a very ‘user friendly’ guide
to the aesthetics, applications and
performance of the company’s extensive
range of metal roofing systems and
products. Additional features include a
technical guide and information on CPD
seminars.
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Which Metallic Drainage Pipework
Is The Easiest To Install?
When it comes to ease of installation, the
BLÜCHER® EuroPipe range of stainless steel push
fit drainage pipework for soil waste and rainwater
applications is ahead of other metallic systems.
Whilst providing excellent tensile strength and
durability BLÜCHER® EuroPipe is truly lightweight
at only 2.8kg per metre for 110mm diameter and
5.3kg/m for 160mm. This allows easy handling
on site. BLÜCHER® EuroPipe is self-supporting
requiring no additional anchors at the base of a
stack, or at any intermediate level and overall
needs fewer brackets than other systems. The simple push fit joints of the BLÜCHER® EuroPipe socket
and spigot pipework system makes installation quick and effortless. Couple these benefits with the wide
range of standard fittings, short lead times for specials, ease of achieving an air-test and excellent
whole life costs, and BLÜCHER® EuroPipe becomes the ideal metallic drainage pipework system.
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Renoxtra - Probably The Most Efficient
Sedbuk Band A Combination Boiler
The RenoXtra high efficiency combination condensing boiler
from Johnson & Starley features a new gas saver module built
into the cabinet of the boiler and provides additional system
efficiency. The new module works by re-cycling flue gas heat,
extracting virtually all the energy from the incoming gas
supply. Reclaimed energy is stored in the unit and is used to
pre-heat the incoming cold water resulting in extra domestic
hot water efficiency, lower gas consumption, lower running
costs and reduced carbon emissions. Testing to BSEN 13203
has demonstrated additional gas savings of approximately
11% in summer mode and up to 40% in winter mode when
the central heating demand produces more condensate that
enables higher rates of heat transfer and heat recovery.
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Press Release Of Sinso Aluminium Composite Panels
Based in Huangzhou, P.R.China,
Sinso is a leading company in
aluminium composite panels
and is now finding its way into
the European market. Sinso’s
aluminium panels are revolutionary
and decorative, and are excellent
for use in façade systemss. The
panels provide vibration damping,
sound/heat/cold isolation and give
a fresh, creative and spectacular
appearance. There are a variety of
types, each with a unique colour
and texture design of the aluminium composite panel. A new type is the honeycomb
panel, basically two aluminium panels with a interlaying honeycomb core, and a
fluorocarbon painted surface. The air that is trapped within the honeycomb structure
works as a perfect insulator against the elements and outside sound.The panels
are lightweight, durable, possess excellent flatness, and are resistant to prolonged
exposure to UV light and all-round weather conditions. Furthermore they are easy to
shape, install and maintain.
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New Brochure The Natural
Choice For Decorative Stone
Decorative aggregate supplier Long Rake
Spar has recently published its new ‘Natural
Selection’ brochure, with details and high-
quality images of its comprehensive range of
natural decorative aggregates. The brochure
acts as an important point of reference for
architects, interior designers and those
looking to improve their own gardens. The
Natural Selection brochure holds information
on a vast selection of products, from
rockery stone, slates, pebbles and cobbles
through to feature stones, monoliths and
the company’s premier selection of products,
which includes polished pebbles and
recycled glass.
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B/i : the book!
Polypipe Ventilation Makes Major
Appointments
Polypipe Ventilation Ltd is delighted to announce two
key appointments, Neil Tilsley as Managing Director
and Paul Burton as National Account Manager. Neil
has extensive experience within the construction and
engineering sectors and will focus on ensuring that
the company delivers new products and solutions
that will save
time and money
for contractors,
builders and
installers. Paul will
be responsible for
national merchants
and developing
the strength of the
Domus name through this channel. Paul has joined the
ventilation division from Polypipe Terrain.
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New Tile Adhesive Is Fixing The Future
ARDEX has announced the UK launch of its
new premium tile adhesive range. ARDEX
MICROTEC Tile Adhesives are a unique
combination of specialist cements, polymers
and MICROTEC fibres, developed and blended
by ARDEX to produce a completely new
generation of wall and floor tile adhesives.
MICROTEC – named due to its ingenious micro
fibre reinforced technology – includes six
new products, developed to deliver advanced
fixing solutions. MICROTEC tile adhesives
have achieved independently tested EN
classifications to a level often double that of
the nearest competitor. All six products in the
MICROTEC range have excellent application
properties with high yield and are available in
white or grey. The range is suitable for swimming pools, wet areas and underfloor heating and can be used
with all types of tile including porcelain, fully vitrified, mosaics and terrazzo.
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D&E Architectural Hardware’s 2008 Catalogue Now Available
D&E Architectural Hardware, distributor of high
quality architectural ironmongery, has launched its
2008 catalogue. The catalogue has been redesigned
to allow even easier product selection. The catalogue
offers dedicated sections on UK, architectural and
narrow stile lock-cases, as well as full details of
D&E Architectural Hardware’s range of hinges, spring
hinges and door controls. The company has also
been appointed the UK distributors for the excellent
Breuer & Schmitz (BSW) range of hinges. D&E is now
able to offer a wide selection of multi-point locks,
with a selection of door furniture to suit.
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ISSUE 2 2008 BI 47
 B/i : the book!
X-force Gets
Tough
A completely new range
of specialist fluorescent
‘proof’ luminaires has been
introduced by Thorn. The X-
Force family - whose powers ‘Think Brick’ Website
include, super strength,
endurance, and the ability Showcases Best Of Brick
to resist harm – goes into A stylish new website has been
battle in the harshest of launched to allow building
environments. Five specific professionals and the public to get
products cater for hot, cold, the best out of brick. The ‘Think
stormy, corrosive and impact Brick’ website www.brick.org.uk
related conditions enabling is packed with information, from
individual performance great brick projects to technical
requirements to be met. downloads. The site is an impressive
Although fluorescent lamps showcase for brick, inspirational
are sensitive to temperature projects from around the world,
the HeatForce and ColdForce and pioneering brickwork design
luminaires are designed with and specification. There are direct
special control gear to operate reliably, and with good light output, at up to 65°C or down to links to the brick manufacturers
–30°C respectively. StormForce is a rugged exterior luminaire - courtesy of a steel reinforced and to other industry bodies. A
canopy and gull wing fixing brackets. CorrosionForce, with its PMMA diffuser will resist most comprehensive FAQs section provides
trace chemicals in the atmosphere, such as in a processing plant or garage. answers to questions.

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Shackerley’s Clear Vision

For Architectural Glass Blocks
Shackerley Holdings Group Limited has announced the UK launch of a
‘new generation’ of sophisticated design-led glass block products which
it claims, will ‘revolutionise’ the way these contemporary building
materials are perceived and specified by British architects and designers.
Already the country’s largest glass block distributor, Shackerley has
now sealed a major new distributorship deal with Seves, the world’s
leading manufacturer of glass blocks for architectural and interior design
applications.
With immediate effect the Lancashire manufacture and distributor has
secured exclusive rights to distribute the Seves glass block portfolio
throughout the UK. Seves has achieved its world leading position
through organic growth, acquisition and investment in advanced
technology, and has brought together under one umbrella some of the
most prestigious brands in the international glass block market such as
Vetroarredo, Solaris, Vitrablok, Vidromatone, and Sindoco. The company’s
products are available in an exceptional array of colourways, formats,
sizes and technical specifications and are being used to create cutting
edge internal and external architectural features for prestige projects
across the globe. Brian Newell, Shackerley Group Chairman says that
he is delighted that Seves, whose glass block sales account for over
40% of the entire world market in value terms, has chosen to entrust
the development of its UK architectural sales to Shackerley. “Whilst
our domestic residential market for glass blocks is well established, the
specification sector is less developed than in continental Europe and
many other parts of the world.
We see huge untapped potential and are thrilled to have the opportunity
to bring this inspirational product range to the attention of architects
and designers here in the UK.” Brian Newell adds: We have a proven
track record and a wealth of expertise in glass blocks and have promoted
the Solaris brand very successfully for many years.
Now as a result of this exciting enhanced partnership with Seves, our
nationwide architectural sales team is able to offer customers full
access to the company’s excellent ‘Design’ and ‘Technology’ collections
and even to a bespoke design and manufacturing service for projects
of appropriate scale and significance.” He concludes: “This partnership
takes us into a new league altogether and marks the beginning of a new
era for glass blocks in this country.”
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TTA Award For
Schlüter Website
Schlüter-Systems Ltd’s revamped website
www.schluter.co.uk was named The
Tile Association’s ‘Best Website’ at the
industry’s annual awards ceremony. TTA’s
Best Website category recognises the way
a company presents itself and its products
through its website. The judges said they
were looking for a site which was well
integrated with the company’s overall
branding and marketing, that was easy to
use and which has genuine content of value
to the site visitor. They also said they were looking for evidence of the site’s effectiveness. In their comments published in
the awards brochure, the judges said: “The Schlüter site is primarily aimed at tiling fixers, architects, specifiers, stockists
and distributors rather than end users. Therefore its style is more technically orientated and is purposely different from
the ‘glossy’ approach needed by retailers’ websites which target the end user. “However it does have an attractive layout
in corporate colours and is very easy to navigate. Every page shows a quick link to contact details, imprint details, a ‘print
view’ option and a ‘how you got here’ navigational aid. Statistics from Google Analytics and feedback from customers show
that the site is both extremely well visited and consistently proves useful to visitors. The site links through to 14 other
Schlüter international websites and so offers alternatives to non-English speaking users.
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48 BI ISSUE 2 2008 ISSUE 2 2008 BI 49


Kloben Sky Collector
Launched In Milan
At the Mostra Convegno
Expocomfort exhibition held
in Milan, Kloben launched
the new Sky Collector solar
heating panel. Sky Collector
CPC58 panels are composed of
a series of borosilicate glass
pipes with a double air gap,
welded at the ends and with a
vacuum inside to reduce heat
loss to a minimum. The internal
air gap is made selective due
to the absorption of solar
electromagnetic radiation
through a multi-layered
metallization called ‘CERMET’.
The result is simply that this
is the most efficient solar
panel presently available. The
new Kloben solar panels are
available in four sizes.
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Polyfit Plumbing Products:
Push, Click, That’s It!
Polyfit is the one-step plastic plumbing
range from Polypipe. Combining durability,
flexibility, convenience and performance,
the Polyfit pushfit system of flexible
polybutylene pipes and fittings is designed
for use on hot and cold water plumbing and
central heating systems, including systems
featuring combination boilers or mains-fed
water cylinders. Working on a simple ‘push,
click, that’s it’
approach to
installation,
Polyfit
provides the
most flexible
plumbing
system
available. All products lock tight to
secure against accidental release, and
are fully demountable and reusable. For
added convenience, the flexibility of the
polybutylene pipe eases installation even
in the most difficult-to-reach locations,
where a built-in release feature will prove
especially helpful.
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Simple Energy
Kingspan Insulated Panels has come up with a
simple, effective solution for carbon emis-
sion reductions with the Kingspan EnergiPanel
system, an insulated solar air heating system
designed for roof and wall applications as
a supplement to the main heating system.
Profiled hollows beneath the crowns allow air
movement up through the panel and the air is
warmed by using the outer steel skin as a solar
energy absorber. The darker the external colour
of the panel the greater the solar absorption.
The rate of airflow up through the panel is
determined by the temperature of incoming air.
Temperature sensors monitor the external air
temperature and varies the fan speed to ensure
the supply air temperature is above the required
internal temperature of the building.
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Talon’s Colour-Coded Clips
Talon Manufacturing Ltd’s Hinged
Identification Pipe Clips give instant
recognition to the pipes they contain.
With clips in bright yellow for gas pipes,
bright red for hot water pipes and in a
royal blue for cold water there can be
no excuse for mistaking a pipe during
maintenance, repair, refurbishment or
extension work. The red and blue clips are
available in the standard domestic water
supply sizes of 15mm and 22mm, while
the yellow gas clips are in 15mm, 22mm
and 28mm diameters. Talon also offers
rolls of Pipe Identity Tape in the same
colours with the additional safeguard of
the word GAS on the yellow tape, HOT on
the red tape and COLD on the blue tape.
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Speedy And Simple Underfloor
Heating Specification
Polypipe, leading manufacturers of underfloor
heating products, has launched a unique web
and disc based quotation system designed to
simplify and speed the specification process of
its floor heating range. The Polypipe 123
Solution has been designed so that in just
three simple steps the installer can arrive at
a full specification to suit a wide variety of
individual applications. Helpful guidance is
provided at each step. Should a bespoke design
be needed a Design Enquiry Form is provided
that is submitted directly to Polypipe, who
complete the design work required.
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College Urinals Use No Water

Bromley College of Further & Higher Education covers the needs of around 7,000 students. With an attendance of that
size use of the toilet facilities and in particular the urinals is heavy and, since a single urinal employing a nine litre
flush four times an hour can consume over 315 cubic metres of water in a year, so were the metered water bills.
Mr Alan Bridger, Premises Supervisor of Bromley College’s Facilities Department, in cooperation with Water Solutions
[GB] Ltd., recently overcame that problem for good by adapting the eleven existing urinals so that they use no water
at all saving 3461 cubic metres of water! First thoughts of a urinal that does not flush are inevitably that it would be
unhygienic and would certainly smell horrendous. In fact the reverse is true. Government funded tests by the Building
Research Establishment have shown that water-free urinals are less liable to contamination than conventionally
flushed models.
The reason is simple. Tap water [especially in a hard water area like Bromley] deposits limescale and this naturally
absorbs urine, making it an ideal breeding ground for bacteria. Eliminate the water and the odour problem is
eliminated as well. The Water Solutions system is also simple. A small mushroom-shaped unit is inserted into the
outlet in the urinal bowl.
The stem of the ‘mushroom’ ends in a unique silicone Bio-seal that allows liquid to pass through then seals
automatically, while the domed head releases a faint but pleasant citrus smell when activated by the presence of
urine. No trap is needed and therefore the main bacterial breeding ground is gone.
At Bromley College two Water Solutions engineers unscrewed the eleven urinals from the wall, removed all the lead-in
pipe-work, fitted the new valves and replaced the traps with simple bends. Mr Bridger is delighted with the simplicity
of the installation and has signed a contract with Water Solutions to replace the valves every 12 weeks – the only
maintenance necessary apart from the removal of any debris from the bowls. He now awaits the arrival of the College’s
next water bill with something approaching glee.

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50 BI ISSUE 2 2008 ISSUE 2 2008 BI 51

 B/i : the book!
Honeywell Heating Programmer
Controls Two Independent
Heating Zones
Honeywell has introduced its ST9500 two channel
heating programmer for independent control of two
heating zones. It is ideal for multi-zone heating
as required by the latest Building Regulations,
with radiator and underfloor heating, gas or oil
fired boilers including condensing and combination
models, as well as electric heating or cooling
systems. In common with all Honeywell ST9000
controls, ST9500 features a unique Honeywell
Line of Text (LoT ™) display, featuring simple text
prompts on a large backlit display. The ST9500 can
provide up to three on/off periods per day for each
of the two zones.

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Slash Water Costs Today

WATER SOLUTIONS are reducing the
water bills of clients nationwide through
their revolutionary award winning and
environmentally friendly water free system.
A single urinal on a half-hour flush cycle
uses around 125,000 litres of water per year.
The water free urinal incorporates a unique

Design And Sustainability one-way valve system, removing the need for
a trap. The valve allows urine to pass through
before closing and sealing ensuring that there

Considerations Of PVC-UE
are no unpleasant odours. The installation
of the urinals reduces water usage and your
annual bill by up to 30%. A unique feature
of these urinals is the continual fragrance

Building Products
release. Activated by the urine contacting
the urinal rose ensuring a more fragrant and
pleasant washroom.

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Environmental impact is more than just a matter of conscience in today’s building industry www.buildinginnovations.co.uk/card
– it is a critical business driver. Sustainability, whether in building design, the carbon
footprint of materials or in the actual building process itself, is under intense scrutiny and Clean Living From The Experts
increasingly, regulation.
Itho Ventilation Ltd is the new name in UK ventilation. Their
whole-house MVHR system, the HRU ECO 4 RF, is one of the
Independent Energy Savings Report
In an interview last year, co-founder of Greenpeace Dr. Patrick Moore provided his views
on sustainable building: “Guys! It’s not within our jurisdiction to eliminate an element of
most energy efficient systems on the market. SAP Q eligible Commissioned By Architectural Profiles Limited
and compliant with the new standards set by the Code for
the periodic table!” Highlighting PVC as maligned materials in the green building industry, An Independent report by Building Sciences Consultancy
Sustainable Homes, it is fitted with a sophisticated synthetic
Dr Moore provided challenging perspectives emphasising the need for LCA (life cycle has been commissioned by Architectural Profiles. Entitled
heat exchanger offering maximum surface area for heat to
assessment) studies to identify true impacts. “There is absolutely no evidence that vinyl ‘Evaluation and Audit of Energy Savings for Non-Domestic
be transferred, along with a quiet energy saving DC motor
damages human health or the environment”, said Dr Moore. “Further, PVC is durable, low Buildings using improved metal cladding systems’,
for maximum efficiency. Transferring heat from the extracted
maintenance, recyclable and performs well on LCA tests.” In summary, PVC-UE is a material the report is in response to the introduction of Energy
contaminated air into the incoming fresh air, the unit is able
whose environmental benefits are all too often underestimated, especially the raft of next Performance Certificates due to be followed up by Display
to maintain optimum temperatures and reduce the energy
generation products currently being developed. Energy Certificates expected later this year. The report
usage of a dwelling. The unit is controlled by state-of-the-art
3 speed wireless controllers where the airflow in every room covers in detail the ‘comparative costs’ of various system
Tony Crutcher, Sales and Marketing Director of the next generation brand of PVC-UE and PVC building materials, Kestrel explains: “Eliminating types with different performance levels to establish the
can be individually adjusted for maximum comfort. The HRU
the lead content in PVC-UE has been a matter of particular concern for environmentally responsible manufacturers in the building industry. As best value for money. The report includes the optimum
ECO 4 RF is an advanced system that meets the increasingly
recommended by the European Commission, UK Government and the PVC industry’s Vinyl 2010 initiative, some suppliers have already made the performance level of 0.14 for roofs and 0.20 for walls, with various options
challenging targets set by the Government.
switch. Kestrel is among those leading the way. In fact, we believe we are ahead as the only supplier in the UK to offer calcium organic stabilisers in illustrated to 0.25 and 0.35 and contains worked up iSEBM calculations and
the core and skin of our PVC-UE. As well as future proofing the product for our customers in case new legislation on material usage does come into detailed cost models. An abbreviated version is available at www.archprof.co.uk.
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play, we are also doing what we can now in the global drive for environmental protection.” www.buildinginnovations.co.uk/card
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52 BI ISSUE 2 2008 ISSUE 2 2008 BI 53


Domus’ Megaduct 220 Ventilation System
Gets Larger
Polypipe Ventilation Ltd announces two new unique components
to the Domus MegaDuct range, used for the ventilation of very
powerful cooker hoods and with MVHR systems. Firstly, an Equal Tee
Piece, which provides a rectangular junction in a multi-extraction or
supply installation and, as with all Domus systems, it is lightweight
and has a simple push fit design which provides a professional
solution. Secondly, the solution to ensuring that a professional
finish is provided when the duct goes through an internal wall is
available with the introduction of the Domus MegaDuct Wall Plate.
This ensures that the wall is easy to ‘make good’. It is simply slid
over the flat channel and screwed to the wall. These products are
unique for this size duct (220 x 90mm) in the market place.
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Universal Ventilation Duct
Offers Flexibility On Site
Polypipe Ventilation Ltd has launched a
solution to overcome awkward installations on
site with a unique Universal Duct section. The
Universal Duct provides an adaptable, easy to
install and robust solution for short offsets
that commonly cause problems. It provides a
more professional finish than flexible hose and
also offers improved airflow characteristics. It
is suited to the rigours often incurred on site.
Universal Duct is supplied is in 300mm lengths
and is adjustable by hand between 0-45
degrees in either a vertical or horizontal plane.
Universal Duct also offers enhanced acoustic
properties over existing solutions, having been
specially manufactured in Santoprene, which
has sound deadening characteristics. This helps
with isolating fan noise from duct systems and
reducing noise transfer, when a duct passes
through a separating wall. The Universal
Duct is suitable for use with the Domus 204
x 60mm Supertube 125 ducting system that
is commonly used in both the ventilation of
cooker hoods and other common ventilation
requirements in housing and apartments.
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54 BI ISSUE 2 2008
Polypipe Ventilation Call For Increased Use
Of Condensation Traps
Polypipe Ventilation Ltd is encouraging the use of condensation traps
to meet the requirements of Approved Document F of the Building
Regulations and NHBC Standards 2007, when ducts pass through
unheated spaces. It is necessary for system designers to provide an
answer when a duct is installed in unheated spaces, such as cold loft
space, condensation can form on the inside of the duct which can then
run down the duct and create a potential hazard, such as dripping onto
the electrical connections of a fan or cooker hood. It is recommended
in the regulations that a condensation trap is installed or, alternatively,
insulated duct is used. A condensation trap actually releases moisture
through a standard overflow pipe ensuring the risk is effectively
removed away from the hazardous area.
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Sapa Launch Puts Others In
The Shade
Sapa Building Systems has rolled
out its new solar shading system,
Elegance SC, to key fabricators in a
series of launch events across the
country. Elegance SC includes three
types of solar shading – horizontal
projecting shading; horizontal parallel
shading and vertical parallel shading,
each with a number of aesthetic,
functional and installation benefits.
Elegance SC can provide high levels
of comfort to building users by
reducing solar glare in the summer
months andmaximising solar gain in
the winter to help increase internal
building temperatures whilst reducing
the need for heating.
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Energy Expert Aims For Eco
Efficiency In His Home
Dr Michael Lamperth, a world-renowned developer
of energy efficient vehicle technologies, strives
to be eco-friendly in all he does, so has equipped
his family home with a super-efficient home
heating system featuring solar heated hot
water and wireless Honeywell heating control of
individual radiators. The controls avoid energy
wastage by heating rooms only when needed
and then only to a preset temperature for the
time of day. Radiators are grouped in heating
zones, depending on when rooms are used. The
Honeywell wireless zone controls can change the
temperature in each zone up to six times per day.
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On Your Marks…
Team Itho was finally unveiled at
London’s greenest venue – Kew Gardens
recently. Key industry players were all
witness to this exciting new company as
it explained how it planned to impact on
the UK market with its energy efficient
ventilation systems and refreshing
attitude to customer service. Itho
Ventilation Ltd is tasked with continuing
Netherlands based Itho B.V.’s century
long reputation for manufacturing and
supplying reliable, efficient products
with a comprehensive care package. Itho
provide “Appendix Q Eligible” MEV and
MVHR products that as well as complying
with System 4 of Part F (Means of Ventilation) and Part L (conservation of energy in homes, offices
and other buildings) of the Building Regulations also exceed the improved energy efficient ventilation
standards set by the requirements within the Code for Sustainable Homes.
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MHS Boilers Launches Air Source Heat Pumps
MHS Boilers has launched a range of energy efficient Air
to Water Heat Pumps. Aerotop from Elco are compact high
performance heating units which convert renewable air source
heat energy into the heat source for a wet central heating
system and generation of domestic hot water via an indirect
cylinder. With nominal outputs in the range from 6 to 35kW and
Coefficient of Performance figures up to 3.9, the Aerotop range
sets benchmarks for power, efficiency and reliable performance,
while delivering peak flow temperatures at very low outside
air temperatures. Each Aerotop unit is delivered complete
with a Logon B WP control unit which provides the user with
comprehensive control over the operation of the heat pump and
attached heating system.
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ISSUE 2 2008 BI 55

Airbloc Keeps The Freshness In At Asda
Airbloc air curtains are an effective barrier against
flying insects and winds at Asda’s distribution
depot at Chepstow. The doors are in constant use
and such a large space building is expensive to
heat to the required constant 15°C. The Chepstow
depot deploys Airbloc AB ambient air curtains
Honeywell Valves
positioned vertically beside each of the loading Make It Easy To
bay doors. The air curtains deliver a sheet of cold Reduce Water
air at critical velocity across each doorway. This
provides sufficient air turbulence to prevent flying
Consumption
insects from crossing into the building.The units
Water consumption is
are positioned vertically because the configuration easy to reduce using
and operation of Asda’s loading bay doors prohibits Honeywell pressure
anything being fitted over the top. reducing valves. The
water pressure to many
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premises is much higher
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than necessary. A
Honeywell pressure
control valve on the supply provides a simple, efficient and cost-effective means to
reduce water pressure within the system and so reduce consumption, as less water
flows to waste while taps are left running, such as to wash hands. It also minimises
flow noise and protects installations from damage caused by excessive pressure.
Connections on hoses to appliances are less likely to leak. Honeywell manufactures
flanged valves with cast iron bodies up to DN600 (24 inch) diameter, and also
small brass-bodied valves with DN15 to DN50 (½ inch to 2 inch) connections. The
cast iron valves will reduce overall water pressure to multi-dwelling buildings and
industrial and commercial premises, while the brass valves can control flows to
individual floors or sub-units.
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Reznor Chosen For Low-Carbon Heating Solution
Diamond Power Speciality Ltd., manufacturer of boiler cleaning and ash-
handling systems, has installed Reznor floor-standing warm air heaters as part
of a complete low-energy building design solution in its new Dumbarton plant.
A total of 10 Reznor floor-standing warm air heaters, ranging in output from
30kW to 140kW, were installed around the production, high-bay warehouse and
despatch areas of the plant. The units are high-efficiency modules equipped with
modulating burners and a fresh-air ventilation option. The heaters are configured
to warm the premises to 19 to 22°C, with automatic shut-off when the upper
limit is reached. The Reznor heaters also have a mechanical heat recovery
feature, which means that they can re-use heat generated by air compressors to
provide ‘free’ warmth for the factory. In summer, the heaters provide fresh air
ventilation to keep internal temperatures cooler.
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New Natural Insulation Company
Is Launched
A new company which makes insulation from sheep’s
wool has been unveiled at Ecobuild. Black Mountain
Insulation is the first UK company to invest in a
dedicated factory to manufacture natural wool insulation
for projects across the UK and Ireland. Natural insulation
such as wool is becoming more and more popular
amongst specifiers and builders. Condensation is one of
the biggest challenges facing the industry. Unlike man-
made materials, when wool absorbs moisture it actually
gives off energy which warms the wool and prevents
condensation. Black Mountain Wool insulation is also
a step forward in fighting condensation-related illness.
Wool insulation is a truly sustainable solution to energy
consumption and the effects of climate change and is
biodegradable in soil and easily recyclable.
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Isoenergy Plans Save GasSolar Unveiled At Eco Build

Country House Costs A revolutionary and highly advanced boiler
system which combines solar energy with
Isoenergy is a company specialising in the design conventional heating, while offering the lat-
and installation of cost justifiable renewable est gas condensing technology, was unveiled
energy systems and over the years, rather at Eco Build.
surprisingly, it has proved to be old country Called the GasSolar Unit and available from
houses that can benefit most from the application Rotex, the system delivers efficiency rates up
of ‘green’ energy. Such properties are notoriously to 110% and when linked jointly with solar
difficult to insulate effectively and even more panels will significantly reduce carbon emis-
inefficient to heat. sions when compared to more conventional
The application of modern energy efficient heating boilers. The GasSolar Unit will blend in with
systems utilising naturally generated power, most room layouts and runs quietly when in
however, can make very substantial cost savings operation.
and improve effective heat provision as well as The GasSolar Unit incorporates several ad-
appeasing the green gods of the environment as ditional features to provide maximum level of
the owner of a large rural property in deepest hygiene while eliminating many of the prob-
Surrey agrees. Built in the early 18th Century, his lems associated with conventional boilers.
six-bedroomed farmhouse is timber framed with The unit will deliver maximum energy savings
brick and stone inserts and has a walled front when connected only to a gas supply. Op-
garden with converted outbuildings to one side. tional solar panels are available to capitalise
The owner asked Isoenergy to devise an eco-friendly system that would cut costs and improve fuel efficiency. The Isoenergy design involved a on free sustainable energy from the sun to
great deal of discreet insulation – never easy in a building where nearly 300 years of wear, tear and settlement had ensured that no room angle promote even greater energy savings. Rotex
will be ninety degrees – plus the installation of a NIBE Fighter 2020 air/water heat pump in the rear garden, linked to a new 200 litre hot water offer a range of different units and each
cylinder feeding the original radiator system. comes with an innovative control system
The existing oil-fired boiler was retained as a back-up for peak usage but its use has now been cut from 180 days per year to just 10. While the with a range of different programmes.
new heating system is still comparatively new, it appears that the Isoenergy estimate of a heating bill reduction from £3,000 to around £800
is totally realistic. The air/water heat pump, supplied by NIBE Energy Systems of Chesterfield, is to a well tested design made for conditions in s ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 52
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56 BI ISSUE 2 2008 ISSUE 2 2008 BI 57


NIBE Goes To Ground For
Wrexham School
Kaba Moveable Partition Walls
Increase Function Room Revenue
Kaba has provided room division solutions at The Waterfront, the stunning new pub and restaurant
recently built alongside Barton Marina, a canal-side complex in Staffordshire. A Hufcor type 100
series moveable wall was installed to provide an acoustic division of the main function room
on the first floor. The moveable walls enable the function room to be divided into three smaller
saleable function areas. The single point wall, faced in a specialist european oak veneer and
protected with an aluminium exposed frame, gives an acoustic barrier of up 54 decibels allowing
separate functions to be held without noise interference. The framework protects the partition
surfaces. The moveable wall partition type 100 series are separate panels with or without visible
frames. Solid walls, telescope elements, doors and double doors, angles and fixed doors with
different surfaces can also be specified.
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58 BI ISSUE 2 2008
G-U Strengthens Cylinder Offer
Gretsch-Unitas has developed an extensive
range of cylinder products, starting with the
launch of its most advanced range of cylinders
to date which will prove a stumbling block
for even accomplished criminals. The Janus
cylinders offer superior cylinder capabilities and
are ideal for use in where security is a priority.
Equipped with multiple security measures that
help safeguard against techniques as bumping,
picking and snapping, G-U is confident this
range will be a hit with customers. Twenty
individual multi-directional tumbler pins
are located around the circumference of the
cylinder. These pins prevent cylinder bumping,
since their comprehensive alignment needs to
be exact in order to gain entry.
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B/i : the book!
A brand new school has just been completed in North Wales to
accommodate 220 children from Nursery age groups through to Year Six.
The exterior of the single storey building, although extremely pleasant,
is conventional in style but the method of heating both the building
itself and the water for pupils, staff and kitchens is anything but. With
an eye to the future – in terms of both energy costs and environmental
considerations – the education authority opted for a system utilising the
heat always present at a more or less constant temperature in the ‘near-
surface geothermal layer’ underground.
In a system designed by NIBE Energy Systems Ltd. of Chesterfield, eleven
boreholes 100 metres deep were drilled into the school grounds before
landscaping. Each borehole contains a plastic tube in an elongated u-
shape, within which circulates a glycol/water mixture in a closed circuit,
working in rather the same manner as a car’s cooling system. Energy
from the warm ground is absorbed in the mixture and translated to two
inter-connected NIBE Fighter 1330 Heat Pumps situated in the school’s
boiler/utilities room. These, with a capacity of 30kW, convert the latent
energy into heat for the water in a fully insulated tank situated near the
Fighter units. This in turn feeds the entire under-floor central heating
system and the hot water supply for all the school buildings. Back-up
heating, if required to act as a boost in times of maximum peak usage, is
supplied by a gas boiler.
While the design and installation of the school’s geothermal heating
was undertaken by NIBE Energy Systems in UK, the equipment used was
designed and manufactured by parent company NIBE AB in Sweden, a
country where renewable energy systems of many types have been in
general use for decades.
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Comar Climate Active Façade
The Comar Climate Active Façade offers a solution. Aluminium technology and
creative flair fuse into seamless, aesthetic façades with the Comar Climate Active
Façade. Thermally efficient façades and solar shading act as a membrane, optimising
solar gain in the winter and minimising glare in the summer. This maintains a
constant internal environment, reducing the energy consumption of the building by
providing a passive means of solar control. The available solar shading systems from
simple cost effective C-type blades to aero-foils coupled with Comar’s integrated
architectural aluminium systems, will meet the design challenges from the most
creative façade architect.
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New Automatic Vent For
Fakro Roof Windows.
With the increasing demand for more thermally
efficient buildings, Fakro is changing the air inlet used
in all its standard roof windows to a new, automatic
vent. Activated by air pressure variation between
the inside and outside of the room, the V40P vent
will ensure that individual room temperatures are
balanced with the optimum level of fresh air. With up
to 35% of heat lost through traditional means of room
ventilation, the V40P can make its own contribution to
energy saving.
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ISSUE 2 2008 BI 59
 B/i : the book!
The 57 Seconds Door Closer RTR Finger Protection Range Improves Door Safety
Envirograf energy efficient timed door holders that comply with RTR Services’ range of finger protection solutions for hinged and pivoting
current fire regulations are the perfect answer to reduce the carbon doors is helping improve safety and minimising the risk of finger trap injury.
footprint, for doors that are in constant use. With hospitals, care The RTR finger protection range includes a number of different solutions
homes, hotels and offices constantly wasting energy by doors being and technologies for use on automatic and manual doors. Roller-Safe is a
continually left open, the most practical solution is to fit a timed tensioned roller blind
Schüco Issues New
door holder. The Envirograf timed door holder does not have to style solution for
Solar Shading be wired into the fire alarm circuit and has been accepted by fire hinged and pivoting
Literature officers and building control officers. The holder can be set to close, doors, whilst the
at a maximum of 57 seconds or in the case of Nevill Hall Hospital, Hinge-Safe range is
New colour literature Abergavenny it was adjusted to around 20 seconds to allow porters a semi-rigid PVC ant-
giving details of to transfer patients to and from wards, without the need to close finger trap product
the Schüco range of doors behind them. specifically designed
aluminium louvre blade for hinged doors,
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is now available for easy to install. Pivot-
downloading from the Safe is a purpose
company’s website www. Contemporary British Architecture
designed solution
schueco.co.uk . Designed for protection against overheating, for single swing or Drives Glass Fixings Demand
to optimise natural light and to increase comfort, Schüco Large double swing pivoting
Louvre Blades ALB include active and passive systems, the latter Stylish 21st century architecture which incorporates
doors. The range is increasingly innovative glazing features has enabled
being offered with a choice of twelve hollow blades ranging from designed to be compact, unobtrusive and reliable in operation with minimal
105 mm to 690 mm so allowing architects great design freedom. the UK division of SFS intec to establish itself as the
maintenance requirements. The various products in the range are available group’s pioneer of precision engineered glass fixings.
The active models use either linear motor drives or concealed in a wide choice of finishes and materials. In many cases, the door does not
motor drives, with blade sizes from 150 mm to 470 mm. There The product range provides an ‘off the shelf’ solution
need to be removed or modified prior to fitting and RTR finger protector, for architectural glazing saving the time and expense
is a choice of elliptical profiles, slimline needle blades or glass with products, such as Roller-Safe, being designed specifically with this
louvre blades. Design benefits include minimal façade gap and of producing bespoke fixings. It includes single
ability in mind. point, flush and bevel point fixings which combine
full rotation of the louvre blades.
with a wide range of spider fixings plus solutions for
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Sonic Windows Help

Station Restoration
Sympathetic restoration work was recently completed on
Huntingdon Station, a designated Grade II Listed building. The
station, built in 1849, is believed to have been designed by
Lewis Cubitt, whose family included Thomas Cubitt the master
builder who remains a household name even today and another
brother who served as Lord Mayor of London.
Lewis was a formidable architect, responsible for many bridges,
mostly in the then Colonies but also including the cast iron
bridge at Peterborough that still carries the East Coast Main
Line over the River Nene.
He is however chiefly remembered for his chef d’oeuvre,
London’s King’s Cross Station. The remedial work at Huntingdon,
managed by Lambert Smith Hamton, was necessary to rectify
unauthorised repairs that, though an urgent necessity following
a fire at the station in 2005, were not in keeping with the late
Georgian splendour of Cubitt’s design.
Clear wired glazing was re-installed in the station canopy,
stained glass panels to the original design replaced plain glass
in the buffet and Network Rail also took the opportunity to
make some other restoration. This included an updating of the
booking hall and for this work specialists Sonic Windows of
Bexhill-on-sea supplied a product which was both in keeping
with the building’s architectural status and provided modern
communication windows including one designed for disabled
access. The design agreed was for two widows at standard
height, flanking one with a substantially lower counter.
The coloured tiles decorating that part of the booking hall were
recessed under the lower counter so that wheelchair users could
sit in comfort at the window while talking to staff. Bullet proof
glass was used throughout, making for easy eye contact with
passengers while maintaining total safety for staff and security
during money transfer. Communication is via an extremely
efficient, non-distorting intercom system and induction loops
are fitted to the window frames for the benefit of hearing aid
users. The triple window is framed in nicely profiled timber to
a design that complements the original ‘half-wheel’ decoration
panel above.
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60 BI ISSUE 2 2008 ISSUE 2 2008 BI 61

 B/i : the book!
Geze UK Talk Of The Town
GEZE UK has brought together classical architecture and contemporary glass
automated entrances to allow access for all, as part of a £35million re-
development at Birmingham’s historic Town Hall. GEZE UK has supplied more
than 100 automatic and manual closers from its extensive range, including TSA
160 UFOs with toughened glass fitted into the structural glass arches of the
main entrance. The impressive lobby also uses Slimdrive SD automatic doors
and a TSA 160 automatic swing door to complete the restoration of the Greek-
inspired style Grade 1 listed building. T
he greatest challenge was to specify a door solution that complemented the
requirements of the DDA and would also discreetly attach onto the glass screen
of the two main entrance doors without compromising the authentic arched
design. GEZE UK specified the TSA 160 UFO under floor operator for a virtually
invisible installation, ensuring the original design of the main entrance was
not lost. The electro-hydraulic operator meets access and aesthetic restrictions
associated with listed buildings and allows for DDA compliance in accordance
with BS83000. The electro-hydraulic power behind the Slimdrive SD also kicks in
when the movement sensor is triggered for an easy and assisted opening.

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Door Hardware And Timber

Doorsets Guides From Laidlaw
Solutions
Orbis Premier is a fully co-ordinated,
comprehensive range of door hardware from
Laidlaw Solutions, available in either Satin or
Polished Stainless Steel finishes. The range
comes with a standard 15-year guarantee
and includes new and unique lever and pull
handle designs with a distinctive dual-
finish backplate system. Its components are
interchangeable. Available as a complete door

Architecturally
package with Orbis Timber Doorsets, hardware
can be factory prepared if necessary. Pre-fixed
lever and inset rose options have an integral
phosphor bronze bearing washer and offer a

Advanced Crittall’s New Composite

Range
3-point fixing method.

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Shutter Systems
With the launch of its innovative new
Composite range, Crittall Windows offers
a perfect blend of timber and aluminium
windows and doors. This new range New CPD Seminar Offers Clear View On Glass Fixing Systems
includes a wide choice of windows and
opening styles, as well as Composite A new RIBA-approved CPD seminar
Pursuing an aggressive programme of technical design and from SFS intec is available to
light duty doors suitable for balconies
development, the Integr8 range of built-in shutters by Charter architects which offers a technical
and patios, plus thermally broken
Specialist Security, continue to lead the way in shutter integration for insight into reliable fixing
aluminium heavy duty doors. Selected from
the new build market. The Integr8 180LS proved to be the ultimate systems for architectural / bolted
sustainable sources of natural hardwood
choice for the Birkenhead and Tranmere SureStart project, being one glass assemblies. The seminar is
and softwood, the timber complements the
of the many government funded community support facilities across presented by SFS intec’s technical
modern design of the window profile, and
the UK. The innovative Integr8 range perfectly harmonises maximum advisors at architects’ offices
can be lacquered or painted as required
security with enhanced aesthetics ensuring a perfect solution - every and qualifies for CPD points. The
to suit the interior. Specifiers can choose
time! With a dedicated AutoCAD design team and complete UK information contained is of a
between laminated European redwood
coverage we are able to ensure the most effective and architecturally technical nature and designed to
or solid European oak. Similarly, the
advanced solution to your requirement. enhance their understanding of
aluminium exterior can be coloured as
required to add a contrasting feature or to the issues surrounding the fixing
s ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 63
www.buildinginnovations.co.uk/card blend in with a building’s overall design. of glass.

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62 BI ISSUE 2 2008 ISSUE 2 2008 BI 63


Neaco Launches New
Structural Glass System
Neaco has developed another superb architectural
innovation with the launch of their Clearline Structural
Glass system. Suitable for both external and internal
use, the free standing balustrade requires no supporting
uprights - continuous glass is fixed in place by
aluminium floor channels with integrated rubber seals
which insulate the glass and eliminate the need for the
more traditional messy mastic detail. Clearline glass
is toughened in accordance with BS EN12600 class 1.
The range also includes a low Iron glass option offering
a noticeably clearer panel than the inherent green
cast of standard clear float glass used in balustrade
applications. The glass is capped by an aluminium top
rail which is warm and comfortable to the touch with a
nylon coated finish. Clearline is ideal for buildings likely
to be used by children, where safety is paramount - the
system is very difficult for children to climb and there
are no gaps through which they could pass.
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64 BI ISSUE 2 2008
B/i : the book!
GV 257x94 18/4/07 14:46 Page 1
New Composite Windows
Any size,
Glas Facades has introduced the Vision 3000 range of timber and
aluminium composite windows as a sustainable and cost efficient
Any shape,
system. The Vision 3000 window comprises a core of timber, sourced
from sustainable forests certified by PEFC. The wood enhances thermal
and acoustic performance, whilst the exterior aluminium cladding Heavy Use Glazed Door Systems From Fendor Anywhere
is up to 70% recycled. The inherent strength of the aluminium
Fendor’s latest steel profile CA Entrance Door system is designed for
external cladding also increases the lifespan of the system, with the
heavy use situations where aluminium doors may fail. The steel doors
combination of materials eliminating heat bridging and minimising
are better able to withstand the rigours of day to day intensive use
condensation for very desirable U-values. The system has been designed
experienced in housing blocks, schools, retail outlets and banks. The
to take triple glazed highly insulating units for outstanding thermal
CA Entrance Door glazed door system provides a light, bright, but
insulation, which significantly reduces the energy use. The Vision 3000
secure entrance to lobby areas and hallways. The doors can be used
has a major advantage – the window is extremely low maintenance
in conjunction with other systems from Fendor’s range of steel and
as the external surface is powder coated, vastly reducing future
aluminium fire, security and specialist glazing solutions that include
maintenance costs. This is particularly beneficial where large scale
curtain walling, windows, doors and screens. Fendor’s glazing designs
installations are involved, where long term maintenance costs have to
provide technical support from the initial design stages of projects
be taken into consideration.
through to an on-site installation service.
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Specifiers Get Up To Date With Industry-
Leading Guide
L.B. Plastics has launched
the latest version of its
renowned Specifiers Guide,
which gives guidance
on the design and key
Need to check the specification of a rooflight?
*Calls cost 10p. Normal network charges apply.
performance factors
Need to show a client the product on site?
involved in window and Text the following product codes to
door selection. Available 07766 40 41 42 and have
to download at www. the pictures and specification
downloaded directly to your
sheerframe.co.uk, the 42-
mobile phone.* Text cml gv1 Text cml gv2 Text cml gv3
page specifiers guide is a
comprehensive document The Flushglaze fixed flat glass rooflight concept is
®
designed for architects, based on an innovative design to achieve maximum
specifiers, building daylight, longevity and high thermal performance.
contractors, fabricators Through the elimination of internal flashings and
and installers. It provides metalwork the Flushglaze® concept minimises water
vital technical information ponding and condensation risks and is suitable for flat
Hideaway Eases Disabled Access on how to select the and sloped rooflight applications.
Architects and builders facing the challenge of meeting the latest most appropriate high
requirements on disabled access in new properties, whilst dealing with performance Sheerframe
the commercial constraints of small sites and tight budgets, many window, door and curtain walling systems for all
refurbishment and new build projects.
Call for a brochure on
+44 (0) 1842 815 581
find the answer in a new range of Hideaway Pocket Door Kits from
Hillaldam Coburn. The recessed sliding door system offers the benefits
of space saving and straightforward installation. Hideaway can meet s ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 72
the requirements of the Disability Discrimination Act and Building www.buildinginnovations.co.uk/card http://www.glazing-vision.co.uk
Regulations by facilitating the creation of cloakrooms within confined
floorplans and can make access into kitchens and dining rooms easier.
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ISSUE 2 2008 BI 65

Celuform Continues Solus
Supply Deal With Redrow
Celuform, the PVC-U and PVC-UE
building product specifier brand, moves
into the fifth year in partnership with
one of the UK’s leading residential
and commercial property developers
Redrow. Redrow trades from 10
regional companies across the UK
and manages in excess of 100 new
homes developments, building around
5,000 new homes annually. Clive
Parry, Redrow’s Commercial Director
comments: “Most of our houses and
flats are built with Celuform PVC-UE
now because homeowners just expect
it as standard. Consumers are generally
now well accustomed to the long life
and low maintenance properties of
PVC-UE over timber. Redrow tries to use
brand leaders in all our suppliers and
Celuform fits the bill providing excellent
service at all levels.”
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66 BI ISSUE 2 2008
B/i : the book!
Old Façade Is Replaced By New Ward Topdek Tops Off New
Curtain Walling From Structura UK Student Accommodation
After a 1970’s façade had been removed from a 6- Ward Insulated Panels’ single-ply roofing
storey building in Berners Street, London, bespoke solution, Topdek, has topped off striking new
curtain walling manufactured and supplied by student accommodation in Sheffield city centre.
Structura UK Ltd was installed by the company to Topdek insulated roofing panels completed the
a design by Barr Gazetas, architects. Designed to new accommodation blocks on Alma Street,
improve the aesthetics and thermal performance of the which provide students with a modern living
building, global head office of Music Sales Ltd, music space within easy access of the city centre.
publishers, the new curtain walling consists of sealed, Topdek is a factory pre-engineered single fix
double-glazed, heat-soak tested, high performance roofdeck incorporating Wards’ FIREsafe insulation
units, comprising of a 6/16/6 soft coat, Low E core which is LPCB certified and has zero ozone
specification. White fritted, double glazed spandrels depletion potential. Topdek has been designed
were fitted at floor slab levels and opening windows to guarantee total insulation continuity, and
were structurally glazed. At ground floor level, by assisting in creating a uniform building
toughened glass entrance screens incorporate two sets envelope, Topdek minimises air leakage, reducing
of manual swing doors between a structurally glazed building energy costs and CO2 emissions.
double shopfront almost 3m square.
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Senior Aluminium Systems New Hybrid Evalon®-Solar Shines Brightest
Senior Aluminium Systems (SAS) has launched Hybrid – a brand new concept in aluminium-timber façade ICB’s Evalon®-Solar, a single ply
supply and winner of the Glassex and GP&T award for Best New Window Product. Comprising a range of membrane incorporating power generating
composite windows, doors and curtain photovoltaic cells encapsulated in one
walling, the new system combines homogenous product, has proved it can
the long life and low maintenance of produce up to 20% greater output than
aluminium externally with all the benefits the common crystalline type panels.
of engineered timber internally. But what The product works with diffused light.
makes it different is that it is available to The electrical power generated can be
fabricators in bar length form. Industry used directly in the building where it is
judges at the Glassex and GP&T awards installed or can be “sold” to an existing
said: “This product was selected because of energy supplier. The PV-cells used in ICB’s
its fast availability, thermal efficiency, low Evalon®-Solar system consist of layers
U-values and durability.” The aluminium of amorphous silicone deposited on a
external frames are also available in Lindab Launch Two New stainless steel substrate and pick-up grid
virtually any polyester colour thanks to Colours For Rainline which, combined into modules, are then
SAS’s in-house powder coating system. integrated with the Evalon® single-ply
Timber and aluminium are from sustainable Rainline from Lindab not only provides roofing membrane. Evalon®-Solar is literally “electricity on a roll”, providing pure and sustainable
sources and at the end of their service life the timber, glass, aluminium and fittings are all fully recyclable. the complete rain drainage system electrical power and – because the photovoltaic panels are part of the waterproof membrane – there is
for all types of buildings, it’s now no need to compromise waterproofing integrity to connect cables.
s ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 76 available in a choice of ten colours with
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Anthracite Metallic –all supported by a
15 year guarantee. Manufactured from
Stainless Steel Spacer Enables ‘U’ Values Of high quality, zinc coated galvanised Klober Dry-Fix Improvements
Structurally Glazed Façades To Be Improved steel; Rainline, which is also available
Klober’s Roll-Fix Dry-Fix Hip kits now include
in Aluzinc or Copper, is highly resistant
Architects looking for ways of achieving an enhanced thermal support trays as standard, each 5 metre
to corrosion and is virtually maintenance
performance from structurally glazed façades will welcome the new pack being supplied with 11 support tray
free. Lighter and less expensive than cast
Stainless Steel Spacer Tube from Schüco International, Europe’s sections and newly developed universal
iron drainage, Rainline will outperform
leading specialist in façade, window and door systems and solar ridge seals. Technical Manager Graham
aluminium and plastic systems, offering
energy products. The new optional spacer tube means that load- Copson commented “Roll-Fix provides a
minimal movement and UV stability - it
bearing insulating units in structurally glazed façades can be water-resistant and wind-tight ridge and
will not crack, fade or leak. Rainline
made gas-tight to EN 1279-3. The benefit of this is that the units hip ventilation system in a roll. The new
is quick and easy to install too with
can be filled with argon thereby significantly lowering overall universal seal and support trays will make
all components precision engineered
‘U’ values and making it easier for architects to meet Building installation easier, and provide greater
to simply click together for a perfect
Regs Part L guidelines on energy efficiency. The Schüco Stainless assurance of a neat line along the hip”.
watertight fit - just click it, fit it and
Steel Spacer Tube has the added advantage of being comparable Available in Terracotta, Brown, Copper and
forget it.
in cost to a conventional aluminium spacer, despite offering the Anthracite, Roll-Fix can be used with the
possibility of a higher specification. s ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 79 deepest profile, large format tiles.
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ISSUE 2 2008 BI 67

Kalzip Off-site Roofs For New
College Buildings
Corus Kalzip has won a £500,000 contract to
supply 4,925 sq. metres of Hi-Point – Corus’
innovative Off-Site roofing system – to provide
new, state-of-the-art campus buildings for
students attending Mid-Kent College in Medway,
Gillingham. Components for a total of 65 Hi-Point
modules will be manufactured under factory
controlled conditions at Kalzip’s Haydock facility
in Merseyside. After being delivered to site, the
lightweight sections will be assembled at ground
level before being craned into position. Where
space is limited, Hi-Point can be pre-assembled
at the factory premises and lifted straight off the
back of the delivery vehicle.
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Diadem To Lift The
(Green) Roof
Diadem, the most comprehensive green
roof system in the UK, has proved to be
a massive success story for its distributor
ICB. The system is compatible with every
type of waterproof membrane making it
the perfect choice . It offers a choice of
environment friendly solutions and an
impressive range of quality products for
both extensive and intensive green roofs.
Diadem products, exclusive to ICB, consist
of everything from traditional sedum mats
through to drainage layers and edge trims,
to security railings and harnesses. There is
also an ingenious lightning protection and
fall arrest system combined in one. Where
possible, the ICB Diadem system has been
manufactured using recyclable products.
The Diadem system can be used on existing
flat roofs, together with most pitched
roofs, terraces and balconies.
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68 BI ISSUE 2 2008
B/i : the book!
Safetyworks System Solution Is Top Of The Class!
“Safety at height” specialists, SAFETYWORKS & Solutions,
have provided Brunel University with a comprehensive system
solution that would enable safe access to the University’s roof
for maintenance purposes. SAFETYWORKS & Solutions installed
1800m of their
Easyguard permanent
free standing handrails
to the roof perimeter.
Galvanised to BS/EN
1461, Easyguard is
durable and offers fast
assembly, with the
base plates fitted with
bonded ribbed rubber
mats, which include
an EPDM foam infill.
The foam infill reduces
heat transference to Integrated Eaves Systems
the roof membrane therefore reducing membrane degradation. · Eaves, verge and monoridge options
SAFETYWORKS and Solutions also installed 100m of Flexideck · Individual designs for every project
· Gutters integrally concealed
walkway system to a standing seam roof in order to allow safe · Secondary supports can save money
access across the roof whilst protecting the risk of damage to the · ISO 9001 plus P. I. Insurance
aluminium sheets. In addition, Easyguard clamp on handrails were
installed to protect personnel using the walkway. A combination
160 Zinc Roof And Façade CAD Details Online of 18 Access Ladders with hinged anti-climb shields were
With the growing use of zinc in construction, the addition of 160 downloadable technical manufactured and installed by SAFETYWORKS & Solutions to allow
details to VM ZINC’s website, www.vmzinc.co.uk marks a fresh approach for a zinc manufacturer. safe access onto many different roof levels.
Quick to use and available in AutoCAD .DWG or
s ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 86
high resolution PDF format, applications include www.buildinginnovations.co.uk/card
standing seam roofing and cladding as well as
interlocking façades. Growing use of zinc in high
profile projects such as Bere Architects ‘Focus
House’, winner of the 2007 Grand Designs ‘Best
Eco House’ is adding to the profile of what is
ROOFMATE™ MinK System From Dow Building Solar Shading New brochure
undeniably the most sustainable metal used in · Choice of elipical blades now available
construction today. Its popularity owes as much, Solutions Minimises Heat Loss From Flat Roofs · Vertically or horizontally mounted
however, to the range of contemporary designs · Brackets designed to suit all finishes
VM ZINC now manufactures, which include
The award-winning ROOFMATE™ · Full colour ranges in PPC or anodised
MinK System from Dow · Field sales and in-house project managers
pre-weathered and coloured finishes. Plans are to add CAD details for the Pluline® range of
Building Solutions minimises
rainwater goods later in the year. They are available meanwhile from VM ZINC together with
heat loss from flat roofs,
detailed technical advice and guidance.
helping architects and builders
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meet increasing demands
set by Building Regulations
in the Code for Sustainable
Reap The Rewards With Architectural Feature Components Homes and desire for better
environmental performance.
From Kingspan Insulated Panels The ROOFMATE™ MinK System
The installation of suitable flashings and is part of Dow’s extensive
ancillaries can play an important role during a range of solutions designed
project in meeting performance requirements. to enhance the thermal
Kingspan Insulated Panels offer a wide choice of performance of buildings, based Architectural Gutters
ancillary components to complement their range on STYROFOAM™ blue extruded · House styles and profiles to suit all buildings
· Boltless overstrap proven jointing method
of insulated panel systems. The new Kingspan foamed polystyrene insulation.
· Specials and curvature to order
membrane lined insulated gutter is available Dow Building Solutions use · BS EN 12056 design service with P I insurance
in lengths of up to 6 metres. It combines a a water vapour permeable (or ‘breather’) membrane, ROOFMATE MK, · Full colour choices
membrane coated steel with an LPCB approved in combination with the unique properties of its insulation layer · Specifications and nbs plus
PIR insulation core and a white steel liner to meet - STYROFOAM roofing product ROOFMATE SL. Together, the system is
the demands of robust construction and U-value known as the ROOFMATE MinK System, and it reduces rainwater cooling
performance. Aesthetic choice is afforded through penalty to below 2% with a corresponding reduction in insulation New website for 2008
the use of standard and bespoke flashings. thickness. The ROOFMATE MinK System was awarded the Chemical
Kingspan can manufacture various flashings Industry Association’s highest award for innovation in 2007. www.dales-eaves.co.uk
including verge, ridge, drip and bullnoses. Further
design flexibility is offered by the use of Kingspan tophats, flashings and pre-formed corners s ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 87 Tel: 0115 930 1521 Fax: 0115 930 7625
and curves. www.buildinginnovations.co.uk/card email addresses: sales@dales-eaves.co.uk
techinfo@dales-eaves
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ISSUE 2 2008 BI 69
 B/i : the book!
Trent Is All White For Easy Chemical DPC - Rapid,
Liverpool’s First Hilton Safe and No Mess
Sparkling white reconstructed stone Remmers new BBA Approved Injection
cladding from Trent Concrete will Cream quickly installs a chemical
ensure Liverpool’s first Hilton Hotel damp-proof course (DPC) by easy hand
will become a landmark building. Trent gun injection into the mortar joints of
will be manufacturing more than 6,500 existing brickwork. Holes are drilled from
square metres of reconstructed White the outside
Portland Stone cladding. A whiter than into the mortar,
white Spanish Dolomite finish will give these are
the building added sparkle. The main cleaned, and
wall panels will be made in two storey the Remmers
(7m) heights, with a mullion effect Injection Cream
used vertically to visually stretch the is gunned through the special nozzle to
building. Fascia beams will cross the fill the hole. Due to the unique Remmers
panels horizontally every second storey. ‘cream’ consistency, there is no mess
An impressive white colonnade will greet or spillage and the material penetrates
visitors approaching the hotel’s lobby. overnight to form a continuous
waterproof DPC in the joint.
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Lignacrete Approved For

E-WM-9
Robust Details Ltd have approved Lignacite
Ltd’s Lignacrete dense blocks for use in
solid party wall construction. The blocks,
called Lignacrete WM-9, are coloured red
so they can be easily identified. Only

Aluminium Eaves and Solar

approved blocks can be used to meet
Robust Details’ E-WM-9, which gives
builders a simple way to meet the new
Part E regulations. Registering with Robust

Shading Products
Details enables builders to avoid the delays
and uncertainties of pre-completion sound
testing. Lignacrete WM-9 is just one of
the range of standard blocks produced
Dales Aluminium Building Products, in their 30th year, continue to increase sales and awareness for their bespoke by Lignacite Ltd, which also includes the
integrated eaves and guttering systems in the UK but are pleased to report a significant uplift in orders and unique Lignacite medium dense block as
specifications due to an active sales and technical presence throughout the UK and to continuously breaking new well as the lightweight Fibo Enviro and
boundaries in manufacturing techniques. Ashlite blocks.
Managing director, Jon Whittle, says “ The company’s continuous growth trend is due to active investment in
s ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 91
equipment, qualified personnel and information technology. The market demands technical support where important www.buildinginnovations.co.uk/card
drainage and aesthetics issues are combining within a single package and Dales step up to the mark to provide just
that.” One such advance is the success of Dales ‘Sigma’ feature profile since its launch in 2005 to meet a trend
for more angular shapes to eaves lines. The uptake has led to a further development in tooling that extends the
horizontal fins that produce the familiar ‘I’ beam appearance in order to meet a growing demand for deeper section
height and thus a need for comparative continuity of scale. Ward Panels In Award-Winning Design
Dales panel and Kwikfix soffits are adapted to connect to Sigma with secret fixings where required and when fitted on
Ward Insulated Panels’ composite wall panels have played an integral
a Dales diaphragm supports provide an independent secondary assembly designed to produce tolerances that overcome
part in an award-winning development of apartments in Altrincham.
variables caused by steelwork, roof loadings and masonry alignment. Recently, working on Building Schools for the
Ward’s distinctive range of metal wall cladding, DW1000, 900 and
Future projects, the value of Dales secondary support methods have helped to achieve significant economies in cost
600, was used to clad the walls of Budenberg Haus Projekte, designed
and programming terms thus proving the benefits of design liaison at the earlier stages of a project. The company
by world-renowned architects Foster and Partners. The development
says its sales growth is due in part to ‘Sigma’ and to its commitment to provide quality bespoke eaves systems to an
comprises two new residential buildings, each shaped like a ships’ bow,
ever demanding market place.
leaning out over Bridgewater Canal. These are adjacent to the newly
Dales have re-launched their Solar Shading product, Shadex, as so much emphasis has been placed upon the need for
renovated Budenberg Gauge Factory which has given the project its
controlling solar gain with building regulations and climate change. The systems are designed and manufactured to
name. Each block is divided by an entrance courtyard with open stairs,
suit the individual requirements of each project with functionality, practicability and appearance all in the mix.
lifts and galleries leading to the front door of each apartment. Ward’s
s ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 89 metal wall cladding in metallic silver and black was laid horizontally on
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Image supplied by Robust Details Ltd

70 BI ISSUE 2 2008 ISSUE 2 2008 BI 71


Permarock - External Wall
Insulation Systems For
Multi-Storey Housing
A recent example of the how
PermaRock External Wall Insulation
has brought an improvement in
energy efficiency and a complete
transformation in aesthetics to
multi-storey high rise homes is
demonstrated by the refurbishment
programme being undertaken by
Glasgow Housing Association (GHA)
in conjunction with Wates Living
72 BI ISSUE 2 2008
Glasgow Housing Association
has taken a prominent lead
in the use of external wall
insulation for high rise
re-development and has
taken full advantage of the
design possibilities available
with PermaRock External
Wall Insulation and Render
systems.
Eighteen blocks are either
on site or completed,
with further blocks due to
commence in the near future,
transforming what were
typical rectangular concrete
towers into an exciting new
skyline.
This works constitutes one
of the UK’s largest ever
refurbishment programmes on
multi-story blocks, with 100
high-rise blocks being given a facelift over the coming years. In putting
together a performance specification for the over-cladding systems for it’s
multi-storey residential blocks, GHA gave careful consideration not only
to the thermal performance requirements, in terms of improvements in the
building envelope U-value, but also to fire resistance, resistance to impact,
resistance to water penetration and wind suction forces, and also to how
the system installation could best be undertaken alongside a concurrent
window replacement program.
GHA, working closely with Wates Living Space, fully appreciated that the
external envelopes of multi-storey, high rise buildings experience a wide
range of unfavourable influences, such as extremes of temperature, wind,
rain, fog, sunlight, atmospheric pollutants and the possibility of organic
infestation from mildew, mould and algae. There was also much thought
B/i : the book!
given to the fire performance requirements for the external cladding
system: Previous fires in high rise blocks at Knowsley Heights in 1991 and
at Garnock Court, Irvine in 1999 had prompted revisions to the guidance
on performance requirements for external cladding systems on multi-storey
buildings, and the GHA external cladding programme required that the
cladding system be fully compliant with the Scottish Building Standards
and tested in compliance with BS 8414-Part1: 2002 ‘Test method for non-
loadbearing external cladding systems applied to the face of the building’.
After a rigorous assessment of the systems available in the UK, and after
evaluating the technical support available from the system designers,
as well as the experience and competencies of the systems approved
installers, the PermaRock External Wall insulation System was selected as a
system that could meet all of the Client’s requirements.
The PermaRock Mineral Fibre external wall insulation system is a composite,
built-up insulated render system that comprises rigid high density mineral
fibre insulation boards, adhesively bonded and mechanically fixed to the
existing wall surfaces, with a reinforced render system applied over the
insulation and mechanically fixed through to provide resistance to wind
suction forces.
A range of decorative acrylic and silicone renders provides the final
aesthetic finish and confers additional protection against weathering.
The results to date at Glasgow have met with approval from all quarters.
GHA’s architects have made full use of the design flexibility available
with insulated render systems, and have given these multi-storey blocks
a stunning new appearance, with each set of towers being given a unique
identity with their own bold designs.
The regeneration of the Glasgow high rise tower blocks clearly demonstrates
how social housing can utilise the full capabilities of EWI. Not only are
the basic technical requirements of structural protection and heat energy
saving achieved, but the innovative use of bold colourful design indicates a
level of excellence in a social housing refurbishment.
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ISSUE 2 2008 BI 73

VM Zinc First With BRE
Certification & CAD Downloads
VM Zinc has become the first UK supplier
to receive BRE certification for its
zinc interlocking panel façade systems
(BRE137/07). The system, which is available
in five colours uses a pre-weathered process
to provide an aged patination. It is designed
for use as an open jointed, drained and
back ventilated cavity rainscreen façade or
overcladding, on buildings where designed
wind loading does not exceed ±2kN/m2. As a
further aid to specification, 160 online CAD
downloads have been made available in .DWG
or pdf format.
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Sun Hill: Permanent Mould Restoration With Remmers
The interior surfaces and decorative finishes in Sun Hill Cottage had suffered from mould
growth and mildew damage, which had to be restored and protected so that it could not
return. Following removal of the damage the walls were treated with Remmers Mildew Stop
and restored with Remmers Restoration Render to reduce condensation and improve thermal
insulation. The surfaces were then given two coats of Remmers Bioni Hygienic coating.
This uses ground-breaking nano-silver technology which causes micro-organisms to die in
contact with its surface – eliminating mould growth and mildew permanently.
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Wicona Unitised Façade Exceeds
Requirements For CWCT And
European Performance Tests
The Wicona unitised façade system from
Hydro Building Systems has exceeded the test
requirements for CWCT (Centre of Window and
Cladding Technology) and European curtain
walling standards. The full range of tests for
weather performance, safety and security were
carried out on a two storey, 8m high façade
sample. The curtain wall comprised eight
unitised units, four of which spanned 4.8m,
exceeding the CWCT requirements for 4m high
spans. The structural integrity of the unitised
façade withstood 3600 Pa, which is equivalent to
wind speeds of 170mph or storm force 12 on the
Beaufort wind scale. The curtain wall resisted
both water penetration and air infiltration up
to 600 Pa. The stringent performance testing
also included static pressure, impact resistance
in accordance with BS EN 13049 and used an
aero engine to generate high wind speeds for
the dynamic pressure. The Wicona system is a highly innovative approach to façade design, which applies the principles of off-site construction to
the building envelope. The system is fully glazed and sealed in a controlled factory environment, and the complete units are moved to site for fast
installation on to pre-prepared fixings. The unitised panels can be fixed to steel or concrete frames and installed using a crane or monorail system.
Any combination of profiles, external feature caps and glazing can be specified and the unitised system can incorporate stone cladding; metal,
composite or polycarbonate panels; windows, doors and fixed light glazing; brise soleil sunshading and photovoltaic panels.
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74 BI ISSUE 2 2008
Accoya Promise Of 60 Years Service Life
Vincent Timber, the one-stop cladding specialist, has added
Accoya, a product designed to give up to 60 years of service
life, to its range of architectural options. Accoya, a timber
species that is first acetylated and then treated, is available
from Vincent Timber with a 30 year guarantee in conjunction
with coating manufacturer Sikkens and its Sentinel Plus Wood
Maintenance Protection Programme. Accoya is the result of 75
years of research and development to produce a highly durable
timber cladding for a range of coated applications.
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B/i : the book!
Acoustic Masonry Blocks
SoundBlox from Oscar Acoustics are
maintenance free acoustic building
blocks for the control of noise
reverberation. Even low frequency
absorption is possible – up to 98%
at 125Hz. SoundBlox are available
in a choice of paint grade UK
or EU sizes, each with a cellular
Easy Application of structure and internal resonant
Hygienic Surfaces sound absorbing cavity. The cavity
Remmers have introduced easy to can be filled with a fibrous filler
use Bioni Hygienic coatings based to broaden the spectrum of sound
on nano-silver technology, which absorption. Common applications
inhibits the metabolism of micro- are sports halls, swimming pools,
organisms, causing them to die in public halls, lecture theatres,
contact with its surface. The ultra- offices, atriums, plant rooms,
hygienic, easily cleaned surface factories, underpasses, road and
rail barriers.
eliminates mould growth and
mildew. Remmers Bioni Hygienic
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coatings are non-toxic and cannot
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leach out, ideal for many internal
wall and ceiling surfaces that have
to be clean and hygienic, or that
are at risk from condensation,
mould growth and mildew. It is
perfect for kitchens, bathrooms and
basements, for example.
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New Health Centre In Belfast Wins
2nd Major Award For Architecture
A health centre in Belfast incorporating architectural aluminium
glazing systems from Technal, has won its second award for
architecture. The Arches, a £15m community health and social
services centre, has been presented with a Civic Trust Award
Commendation.
It has already won a Royal Institute of British Architects Award.
The scheme features innovative use of Technal’s façade systems,
including around 100 windows.
Two buildings are linked using Technal’s roof glazing to create an
attractive and welcoming atrium space at the heart of the centre.
A ‘stained’ glass façade constructed from Technal’s curtain walling
spans three storeys above the main entrance. Here, the double glazed
units are structurally bonded to the curtain walling system to give
the appearance of one large pane of glass. An abstract image of a
flower, signifying regeneration, growth and health, was printed onto
vinyl film and applied to the inner face of the double glazed units.
Dual colour tilt/turn casement windows from Technal’s FXi46 suite
were finished in a variety of colours contrasting with the white
rendered external envelope.
The windows were 2.4m high for the front elevation and used
as 1.5m high units in 11m long runs to the rear of the building.
Technal’s Trame Verticale curtain walling encloses the three-storey
circular stairwell. The system was glazed in dark grey anti-sun glass,
with silver caps to accentuate the vertical lines, and concealed vents
to allow natural ventilation.
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ISSUE 2 2008 BI 75
 B/i : the book!
Call Of Duty Answered By Ardex At Gamestation Mapei To The Rescue RSL Gives Hotels And Restaurants 5 Star Floors Stone FX Launches As Forest Gets Four
When Gamestation, the fastest growing retailer of A system of Mapei products has been Resin Surfaces Limited (RSL) is proving itself to be the connoisseur’s Building on the
video and computer games in the UK opened a new used in the rebuild and refurbishment choice of resin flooring. Its product range is now a fixture in some enormous success of
store in Hull, ARDEX UK supplied the perfect flooring of the RNLI Grace Darling Museum in of the UK’s best hotels and restaurants, including The Savoy, The the Forest FX wood-
solution. Hull Flooring specified ARDEX FEATHER FINISH Northumberland. 130m2 of Burlington Mayfair and the Michelin-starred Bath Priory Hotel and Restaurant. effect sheet vinyl range,
to smooth over the new plywood floor, as it has been Elterwater Slate was installed to the floor RSL’s flagship products in these area’s are Resuthane TG69, a commercial flooring
extensively proven to deliver rapid and effective on- and Mapei’s water-based specialist Polyflor has
site working. In addition, the built-in Rapidry Formula Keraquick polyurethane launched Stone FX - an
technology ensures that ARDEX FEATHER FINISH dries adhesive in resin screed, eye catching collection
and hardens rapidly, this can be after as little as 15 Grey was and epoxy resin of 12 mottled granite
minutes on absorbent sub-floors. ARDEX AF 890 Surface specified screed Resucrete. and stone designs.
Tackifier was specified to fix the carpet tiles within for its fast Both provide a The simultaneous
the store. Odourless when dry with a short drying setting and hard-wearing introduction of four
time and permanent tack, ARDEX AF 890 is equally flexible hygienic floor exciting new timber
effective when roller or spray applied. To complete properties. The joints were then grouted surface that can effect shades to the
the installation, Polyflor Kudos vinyl floorcovering with Mapei Ultracolor Plus, fast-setting survive aggressive original Forest FX
was fixed with ARDEX AF 100 Pressure Sensitive and drying, flexible cementitious grout in cleaning collection aims to
Acrylic Flooring Adhesive. ARDEX AF 100 incorporates 113 Cement Grey, then movement joints methods. As a further strengthen its
the latest floorcovering adhesives technology and is were sealed with Mapei Mapesil AC silicone polyurethane- commanding market
perfect for use with PVC/Vinyl floorcoverings. sealant. based product, Resuthane TG69 is non-taint and highly resistant to position. Produced
chemical attack. Another key strength of the product is that it can in the same heavy
s ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 102 s ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 103 also be steam-cleaned and withstand boiling water. Resucrete is an commercial specification
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anti – slip epoxy-based alternative that provides similar levels of
resistance to chemical and bacterial attack. RSL’s product range will Stone FX is equally quick and easy to install and can be welded at
furnish a kitchen with an anti-slip, seamless floor finish that leaves the seams to provide a hygienic surface, offering no sanctuary to dirt
Schoolchildren Award Altro Top no cracks or joints in which bacteria can multiply. and bacteria. Both ranges also feature a polyurethane reinforcement
Grade For New Flooring (PUR), which protects the floor during installation and handover and
s ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 107 facilitates a polish-free maintenance regime.
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throughout. The building in Hackney will offer
students the perfect environment and facilities
for learning and development. Altro Stronghold
and Altro Maxis flooring have been installed in
the kitchens, classrooms and science labs. Altro
ScreedQuartz protective flooring coating has been Ardex System Solution Delights
used in the main atrium and reception area. Altro
Whiterock wall cladding has been fitted in the New John Lewis Store
kitchens. Altro Stronghold and Maxis flooring are
ideal for safety in areas prone to become wet ARDEX UK delivered a high performance flooring solution for a
and greasy. Altro ScreedQuartz creates a clear prestigious new store in Cambridge on behalf of one of the High
protective seal that becomes slip resistant. The Street’s most revered names, John Lewis. Where there was a need to
ScreedQuartz flooring is resistant to a wide range deep fill floor levels, ARDEX K 15-B was used. ARDEX Rapidry Formula
Resdev Supports The of chemicals and is abrasion resistant. technology ensures ARDEX K 15-B dries and hardens rapidly so that
Supercars even thick applications will be hard enough to walk on after 2 hours.
s ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 105 ARDEX K 15 was applied as a top layer to the ARDEX K 15-B, to
When you’re parading some of the world’s www.buildinginnovations.co.uk/card provide a superior flat and smooth finish. ARDEX K 15 can be trowel
most exclusive supercars, then the or pump applied and provides rapid drying and hardening times
environment you choose to display them combining speed and performance. Part of the newly developed store
at their best is vital. When the Leeds Ardex R 90 P Rake And Trowel PU incorporates an existing building, where ARDEX FEATHER FINISH was
branch of GROUP20 SuperCar Club opened Screed ‘Steaks’ Out Its Claim used to smooth and patch repair the existing plywood floors. ARDEX
new premises for the collection and DPM was applied to some of the floor areas to provide a membrane
delivery of these high octane models, they When Ivan Clarke Quality Catering Butchers were with high inherent strength and an excellent bond. ARDEX DPM
chose Resdev’s Pumaflow resin flooring extending their modern production facility at adheres to saturated surface dry concrete and is totally compatible
system to create a quality showroom Ilfracombe, they needed to be sure that they would with ARDEX’s range of commercial flooring systems. Over 4,000m2 of
finish underfoot. The building is used as a receive the appropriate resin floor system that carpet tiles within various locations throughout the store, including
showroom for the exclusive members-only would meet the performance, appearance and budget shopping areas, coffee shop and brasserie, were fixed with ARDEX
SuperCar Club, frequently hosting vehicles criteria. ARDEX R 90 P Rake and Trowel Grade Heavy AF 890 Surface Tackifier. Non-slip safety flooring was installed to
including the Pagani Zonda Roadster F and Duty Polyurethane Screed was specified. Ideal for ‘back of house’ with ARDEX AF 100 Pressure Sensitive Acrylic Flooring
Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder. Pumaflow is fast track projects in food processing environments, Adhesive. Benefits of ARDEX AF 100 include high yield, low odour
a flow applied epoxy resin flooring which ARDEX R 90 P is available in a range of colours and compatibility with under floor heating systems. To complete,
results in a smooth, easily cleaned surface which is particularly useful when it is essential to ARDEX AF 650 Heavy Duty Contact Adhesive was used to fix nosings.
with an attractive gloss finish which differentiate areas. ARDEX R 90 P has been designed
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76 BI ISSUE 2 2008 ISSUE 2 2008 BI 77

 B/i : the book!
It’s A Gem Of A System
For Moonstone
The revolutionary, award-winning underfloor heating system Schlüter®-BEKOTEC-THERM was the natural
choice for one of the UK’s greenest self-build projects. John Croft has installed Schlüter®-BEKOTEC-THERM
under all 1,470 square metres of flooring at his luxury eco-house in the Cotswolds. And to uncouple the
Jerusalem Gold stone tiles from the Cemex Supaflo anhydrite screed, the Schlüter®-DITRA uncoupling
membrane was specified.
Known as The Moonstone Project, the unique multi-level six-bedroom house, which includes an indoor
swimming pool, gym, cinema and games room, is a model of eco-efficiency, which is why the energy
saving aspects of Schlüter®-BEKOTEC-THERM were so important. And as the system incorporates the
uncoupling membrane and a modular screed, it also protects the stone tiles. Many ceramic and stone
tile installers have become wary of fixing over heated screeds because of problems experienced in the
past with tiles cracking, splitting and debonding. This is caused by the screed and tiles expanding and
contracting at different rates due to their different heat expansion co-efficients during temperature
changes.
However, Schlüter®-BEKOTEC-THERM is an energy-efficient and quick-reacting modular assembly system
which overcomes this long-standing problem with the formation of micro-fine cracks that eliminate
stress build-up due to shrinkage during the curing of the screed. As soon as the screed can be walked on,
the Schlüter®-DITRA uncoupling membrane is bonded to it, and the stone or ceramic covering is then
installed onto the membrane. And because the whole assembly has a low construction height, the screed
mass to be heated is comparatively small, meaning the radiant heated floor is easily regulated and can be
operated with low supply temperatures, giving reduced fuel costs.
A thin layer of conventional screed – anhydrite, in the case of The Moonstone Project -- covers the studs
and pipes by a minimum of 8mm and up to a maximum of 25mm, depending on the type of installation,
so in some cases just five degrees is lost between the heat pipe and the surface. All of which means
that Schlüter®-BEKOTEC-THERM was the absolute right specification for Moonstone. Because 80% of
the house’s energy is generated from flat plate solar collectors, with the remainder being generated by
a ground source heat pump, the thin screed layer and the resulting lower temperatures needed to heat
it, mean the heat pump works more efficiently than with conventional underfloor heating systems. And
with 1,470 square metres of flooring to heat, John said it was essential that the temperature is easy to
regulate.
And there was an added bonus for the heating contractors, who found the entire system quick and simple
to install. Although early architectural work on the house was handled by an architect, John completed
the designs himself, and liaised regularly with Schlüter-Systems Ltd regarding the specification for the
underfloor heating. The house in The Moonstone Project has a U value of 0.07, giving it a passivhaus
rating. In theory, the building is so well insulated that the heat given off by the people inside would be
enough to heat it. The house has, on average, around 0.5 metres of insulation incorporated within its
walls, floors and roof. The stone tiles were supplied by Indigenous Tiles, of Burford, Oxfordshire. They
have been used internally throughout the whole house, and on three exterior balconies.

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Mapei’s Fiberplan – The Ideal Solution
For Levelling Timber Floors
Mapei’s FIBERPLAN is an ultra-fast hardening, fibre-reinforced
self-levelling compound suitable for levelling differences
in thickness from 3 – 10mm on timber substrates for the
installation of floor coverings. Time efficient and cost
effective, FIBERPLAN offers an alternative to a plywood
overlay, eliminating the requirement for conventional carpentry
or other over-boarding methods often employed for levelling
timber floors and is suitable for use over wooden boarding,
chipboard, plywood and parquet as well as existing ceramic
tiles, terrazzo and natural stone substrates. FIBERPLAN has
a high flexural strength, and is ideal when installing ceramic
tiles over a wooden substrate as it helps prevent cracking
on tiled finishes, ensuring that the tiled surface remains
unharmed and intact.
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Ardex R 90 P Serves Up A Treat For Frank Dale Food
ARDEX were specified for a new extension project on behalf of Frank Dale
Foods, a brand leader in Finger Foods, and provided the ideal industrial
flooring system for this 650m2 project. ARDEX R 90 P Rake and Trowel
Grade Heavy Duty Polyurethane Screed was specified as it provides high
chemical resistance, with a seamless and joint free finish to withstand
rigorous hygiene routines. ARDEX R 90 P provides an easily worked
system that can be applied using a pin rake and trowel, resulting in a
more efficient installation process compared to traditional trowel applied
heavy duty polyurethane screeds. The system forms a tough, easily
cleaned, pigmented layer from 4mm up to 9mm thick, providing a durable, Spark Of The Orient
slip resistant resin flooring system.
Passive fire protection for Chinese wooden
buildings has become a substantial market
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for Envirograf. The Chinese market place has
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blossomed since the early 90’s, when the
founder and Managing Director of Envirograf,
Derek Ward, visited a number of Chinese
provinces to examine the fire safety of some
of their holy shrines. Wooden temples were
identified as being the most susceptible to an
accidental or malicious fire, and with many
of these historical structures being located
in isolated places, the need for maximum
protection was paramount, Derek suggested
the use of his Envirograf fire protective coating
system, which carry a British Standard and
European performance tests for up to 60
minutes fire protection.
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The New Look
Website From Conren
The new look website from Conren (www.
conren.com) now makes it even easier to
source the latest technical information
on Conren’s resin coatings, screeds,
waterproofing compounds, highways
anti-skid and safety surfacing. Help is
also at hand for specifiers who can now
access the appropriate NBS specification
clauses for Conren’s surfacing products.
The Company’s 24-page colour brochure
‘Surfacing Solutions’ is available in a
‘pdf’ format to download from the site,
together with technical product data
sheets.
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B/i : the book!
Elastomeric Mix Waterproofs
Surfaces In A Single Coat
Monolastic has
been formulated
by Index to
waterproof
concrete floors
and walls or
general cement
based surfaces,
even wood
or plasters,
subjected to
moisture. The
black bitumen-cementitious paste is non-
toxic, has excellent adhesive and elastic
properties and will bridge 3mm cracks.
Under normal conditions seal testing
can be carried out in 4 days and once
cured it will accept adhesive cements
or plasters. Where crumbling or loose
areas have been reinstated a water based
primer such as Primer Fix should be used
before Monolastic is applied in a 2mm
coat. A technical data sheet supports the
product.
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Toughest Floor Surface Doesn’t your project Dricon® is the only BBA approved
fire retardant treatment for timber.
For Exhibition Hall
A floor surface that is reckoned to be the
deserve the best? It forms part of a unique choice
toughest in the world has been installed in of timber protection systems and
a new exhibition hall at the East of England services available from Arch to
Showground, Peterborough. The surface provide more time and safety in
material comprises cement powder, admixtures
a fire situation.
and hard alloy aggregates containing titanium
that is sprinkled onto the new, wet concrete
floor slab. The system known as Sikafloor
MetalTop fuses into the wet concrete forming a
monolithic surface that when cured, is reckoned
to be 20 times as abrasion resistant as regular
powerfloated concrete. The floor design
and installation was by specialist concrete
flooring contractors, Twintec who used a steel
fibre reinforced concrete which dramatically
improves the toughness of the floor and
eliminates the need for induced contraction
joints. The finished floor of the 4,500 square
metre exhibition hall is exceptionally durable
and easy to clean and maintain. Advantages
over other systems are speed - no additional
www.archtp.net
time is needed as the surface is applied at SEE U
S AT
the same time the concrete slab is poured, ECOBU IL
therefore the overall cost is lower. STAND NO D
27 FEB - 1 . E401
MAR 2007
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Dricon®, Non-Com® and Flamecheck®

are registered trademarks of Arch Timber Protection.
UniQue timber protection
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 B/i : the book!
Blockleys’
Hydrosmart™
Permeable Clay
Paving System
Increasing urbanisation of the countryside, the re-
development of brown field sites and changes in rainfall
patterns have led to much higher volumes of surface water
entering sewerage systems and water courses. This, in
turn, has led to an increased number of ‘flooding events’
in city centres, greater expenditure on new and upgraded
sewerage systems and insurance companies increasing
premiums on properties built in vulnerable areas.
Permeable paving systems can be used to help alleviate
these problems.
Traditionally no limitations have been placed on the
extent of hard impervious surfacing materials associated
with new or existing locations. This situation is now
changing as legislation and a greater awareness of
environmental matters forces designers and specifiers to
seek ‘greener’ pavement solutions. Permeable pavements
replicate the natural drainage patterns of a site prior
to its development, attenuate discharge volumes from
the pavement and treat pollutants within the pavement
construction. Structurally they can also be designed to
receive the full spectrum of vehicular loadings. Permeable
pavements encourage water to cascade through the
construction rather than running off the surface as would
normally be the case.
The pavement structure and the materials used must
therefore be selected with this in mind. Depending on
ground conditions a ‘tanked system’ or an ‘infiltration
system’ can be selected. In tanked systems water is
temporarily held in a reservoir structure formed with an
impervious membrane. Retained water is then discharged
through a small diameter pipe at ‘green field run-off
rates’ to a water course, an existing drainage network or
a storage tank. A proportion of the retained water also
evaporates back to atmosphere through the permeable
pavement surface.
In infiltration systems, the impervious membrane is
replaced with a geotextile material which allows retained
water to pass directly into the subgrade to replenish
ground water levels. Blockleys’ Hydrosmart™ fully
researched permeable clay paving system provides the
ideal solution for specifiers seeking an attractive, durable
surface which has excellent long term environmental and
technical performance characteristics.

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Howe Green Flushed With Capital Success Ecophon Coffers Display Artistic
Howe Green, the UK’s leading Qualities
developer and manufacturer of floor, The architects behind the reconfiguration of a
ceiling and wall access solutions, secondary school as an arts college have found an
has completed a major project at unusual application for the illuminated ceiling coffers
London’s acclaimed Gherkin Swiss manufactured by Ecophon Limited. The King James I
Re building. The company was College in Bishop Auckland has been expanded from
commissioned to provide access a econdary school to create a community college
panels for investment firm Orient specialising in the arts. The project team, led by
Global’s toilet facilities on level 30 Planarch
of the stunning building. Howe Green Design, sought
was called in to create a solution a means of
that would seamlessly blend with converting a
the minimalist, stylized interior of tired reception
the bathrooms. These would have area into a
to safely cover all the plumbing and bright and
automatic electrical controls for
exciting
the toilets and urinals. Howe Green exhibition
supplied its Waldor 65 hinged wall
space. They
panels, made to perfectly match the
achieved it by installing a complete new Ecophon
existing tiling. The large panels,
ceiling system featuring three raised, illuminated
measuring over 1.2m by 800mm, also
coffers, each of which acts as a very visible display
featured a stainless steel edge trim
space for both sculptures and paintings. The architect
to give attractive clean lines to the
in charge of the project for Planarch, Mr Stephen
finished product. Each of the panels
Citrone, comments: “It was the perfect system to
was manufactured from 1.2mm thick, corrosion resistant stainless steel and
achieve the visual impact we were looking for and did
a simple, concealed security lock prevents tampering while allowing easy
everything we wanted in terms of creating the right
maintenance access.
light and space.”
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Balustrading Facilitated by
Expanded Metal Mesh
Balustrading is a functional feature of a building, but
thanks to the advanced technology that The Expanded
Metal Company (EMC) employs in the manufacture of
its specialist product range, it can also be used as
a major design feature in its own right, combining
practicality with eye catching aesthetic appeal.
Expanded metal mesh has a number of advantages
over other materials traditionally associated with
balustrading. First is its strength - the mesh is formed
from a single continuous sheet, which provides
additional strength. The uncut knuckles of the product
allow it to withstand stress better than welds or
joints, making it ultra secure at any height level. When
suitably coated, it is also super corrosion resistant,
performing better than welded or woven metal, due
to the jointless continuity of the mesh. However, it is
the design potential of expanded mesh that opens up
a wealth of creative choice and opportunity for the
architect. Expanded metal mesh can be finished with a
range of specialist coatings - powder coated, painted,
galvanised, anodised and coloured to blend in with
any environment.
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84 BI ISSUE 2 2008
B/i : the book!
A Bespoke
Stannah Lift For
Sportsworld
Stannah have installed
a special bespoke lift
for sports equipment
retailer, Sportsworld,
in their Glasgow store.
The lift had to operate
within an existing shaft
so a new steel structure
was constructed within
the existing stairwell so
that the ‘new’ lift would
comply with all the
latest regulations. The
structure is clad with
Ice Cool Nightlife In Verbier, Switzerland
gilt bronze mesh, the A luxury new VIP members’ club in the Swiss Alps provides the spectacular
lift interior is finished to perfection in wood with brass panels setting for custom wall finishes from Armourcoat. The Coco Club in Verbier
and skirting and the car is completed by a stunning decorative has undergone a £1m refurbishment to create a slick designer interior.
ceiling. The entrance to the lift into the listed building is Armourcoat were specified to create custom wall finishes to match this
approached by a flight of external steps, so this means the opulent style. A polished plaster finish in a chunky, textured effect
store is still not fully accessible. The installation of a Stannah complete with gold leaf is used to stunning effect. The ArmourCast ‘Flow’
Stairiser, platform stairlift, on the approaching staircase means wall panel system creates a dramatic sculptured wall finish in the entrance.
people who use a wheelchair or find the stairs difficult can still The seamless artisan-look, is achieved from the creation of a sequence of
access the passenger lift and reach all levels of the store. CAD generated ArmourCast panels. Each panel interlocks cleverly creating
a unique wall finish each time with numerous design options. The ‘Flow’
s ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 122 system can be finished in a wide range of decorative effects.
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Architectural Ceramics
Launch Dynamic New Website
2008 sees one of the leading suppliers of
commercial tile solutions for architects and
interior designers, Architectural Ceramics, launch
their new contemporary and informative website:
www.actiles.co.uk. Features include; dynamic
navigation, an extensive product library that
illustrates over 20,000 variations of floor and
wall tiles, an NBS specification area and CPD
seminars. From sustainable products such as
Zenith Glass mosaic, to gigantic 1200x1200mm
porcelain tiles and stylish wall tiles,
Architectural Ceramics’ website is a valuable
portal to the latest innovations and trends
for wall and floor coverings. Chris Petitjean,
Marketing Director of Architectural Ceramics
comments: “The new website reflects the breadth
of high quality solutions that we specialise in
and now features far more project reference
images. We are delighted with the way the site
works, and hope our clients do too.”
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ISSUE 2 2008 BI 85

Compac’s New Range
Of Colours - Created To Marshalls’ Popular Priora
Awaken Your Senses Range Introduce New Tegula
Beauty, sophistication and innovation
Priora 60mm
arrive in the kitchen with a range The UK’s No. 1 hard landscaping
of new quartz worksurface colours transformation company, Marshalls plc, has
and finishes launched by COMPAC introduced new Tegula Priora 60mm to the
MARMOL&QUARTZ. Be seduced by popular Priora range. Bringing together the
sizzling Fucsia, experience Passion, aesthetics of Tegula and the environmental
enjoy the intensity of Chocolat and benefits of Priora, Tegula Priora provides
be tempted by the softness of Lila. versatility to complement conservation
Sample the flavour of Wine or for projects or enhance distinctive show
something innovatively different, take piece schemes requiring a SUDS solution.
a look at Cement. Available in 3m slab Marshalls currently produce an 80mm unit
sizes and a range of thicknesses and and the introduction of 60mm allows real
formats designed to meet the most value engineering to projects requiring
challenging kitchen layout. All COMPAC a permeable distressed unit, yet not
worksurfaces are complemented by anticipating the vehicular overrun where an
matching floor and skirting tiles. 80mm unit would be utilised. Manufactured
at our Sandy works, Tegula Priora 60mm is
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available now in Harvest, Pennant Grey and
Traditional colourways in a 160 gauge.
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Hard Standing For Terminal
Expansion
Sika, working with Hanson Premix,
have been supplying high grade, steel
fibre reinforced concrete for use in a
contract for Pentalver Transport, who has
increased its footprint by some 23 acres
at Southampton Docks. Hanson Premix
using Sika
admixtures
were
chosen to
supply the
concrete
for this
new
container storage area. A C40 concrete
mix was specified incorporating Novocon
FE1050 steel fibres and Sika Fibrepack
polypropylene fibres to provide increased
flexural toughness and resistance to
cracking. Granulated blastfurnace slag
at 40% was incorporated to increase the
durability of the concrete together with
Sikament 10 superplasticiser for water
reduction.
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Vanities Designed To Inspire By
Armitage Venesta.
Stylish, inspirational and functional – expect
the very best from the new vanities range by
Armitage Venesta, the UK’s leading washroom
system provider. For individuality and exclusivity,
there is no better choice than new Granite
countertops. Styles from Blue Pearl to Ivory Pink,
plus a choice of profiles, ensure all your design
criteria are met. The natural beauty of stone
continues with Quartz. Engineered with a resin
composite for increased durability, Quartz delivers
undeniable luxury and sophistication. Solid
Surface countertops – made from a proven blend
of minerals and acrylic polymer – also deliver an
impressive stone appearance, but with assured
colour consistency and durability. And the
Armitage Venesta vanity choice goes on. There’s
Oslo for a contemporary glass solution. Plus
Compact grade for really hard-working washrooms
as well as economic Laminate options, both
materials are available in 52 colours.
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Maxideck – High Performance
Acoustic Floor
Sound Reduction Systems Ltd (SRS) have launched
Maxideck, a high performance acoustic flooring
solution, to comply with Building Regulations Part
E. Maxideck is a cost effective and time efficient
method of meeting both the airborne and impact
noise standards. Maxideck is a composite of four
materials, each chosen for their own unique
acoustic properties, resulting in a high performance
product having minimal floor build-up. At only
28mm thick, Maxideck has demonstrated compliance
with the Building Regulations in many different
constructions.
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Expanded Metal At The Core Of A ‘Big Apple’ Project
New York City’s latest architectural
icon is a world-class building in which
every department at The Expanded
Metal Company can genuinely say
they played a part. The city’s New
Museum of Contemporary Art was
officially opened to widespread
acclaim recently. Expanded Metal
Company Architectural Specification
Managers Paul Whitton and Paul
Bushnell were among the guests at
the gala event but, says Mr Whitton,
“This really was a team effort”.
Paul Whitton and his team used
their expertise to come up with
sample meshes that illustrated what
expanded metal could achieve. But,
he says, aesthetics were not the only
consideration. “We had to look at
the structural feasibility which in
New York not only has to cope with
strong winds, but also ice loading. A lot of engineering work was required.” To satisfy
the warranty requirements the chosen aluminium mesh was anodised but, notes Paul,
“This process can make the product appear somewhat dull and this was exactly the
opposite to what SANAA was looking for, so we had the aluminium specially polished
prior to anodising to minimise this effect.”
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86 BI ISSUE 2 2008 ISSUE 2 2008 BI 87


Rock Asphalte And Arsenal – A Watertight Defence
Rock Asphalte has delivered
a hat trick of world beating
protective systems to Arsenal
FC’s The Stadium housing
project. For the main roofing
areas, Rock is supplying its
fully bonded Flexiphalte Triple
Protection inverted roofing
system. It is topped off by a
loose laid Min K Membrane,
Roofmate SL-X and a geotextile
separating membrane.
The podium deck will rely
on Flexiphalte Structural
Waterproofing, comprising
25mm Flexiphalte Pompav polymer modified paving grade asphalt and 10mm Pommar polymer
modified roofing grade asphalt. Below, a Baryprene membrane is fully bonded to float finish
concrete. Finally, the exclusive penthouses feature a 1.2mm thick, light grey single ply membrane
that is fully adhered to tapered insulation board.
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Bluestone Chooses Hodgson
& Hodgson As Partner
In £6 Million Student
Accommodation Project
The Hodgson & Hodgson Group is
celebrating another successful project
after the completion of a consultancy
contract for a £6 million new-build
development Victoria Hall in Nottingham.
Builders Bluestone plc chose the
Group’s Consultancy Division to provide
comprehensive acoustic design,
assessment and planning services on the
scheme. Situated in Saint Anne’s Well
Road, close to Nottingham city centre,
Victoria Hall is an exclusive new-build
development consisting of three cylindrical
five, seven and nine-storey steel frame
blocks for student accommodation.
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88 BI ISSUE 2 2008
KNX Lighting System Tracks The
Sun For Passport Officials
One of the intelligent lighting systems offered
by Electrak Limited, a member of KNX UK, has
been utilised within the new Passport office
in Liverpool to optimise energy performance
and adjust the level of artificial lighting in
the occupied spaces as the sun tracks across
the structure. The project team decided to
install the Electrak
KNX lighting power
distribution and
control system as
six separate lines
to zone the three
floors of the property.
The installation features the use of movement
sensors in many occupied spaces and MT 701
mini panels which implement the programmed
lighting control across individual areas.
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Ground Heave Protection Now Even Better
Users of products which combat the
effects of groundheave, particularly
prevalent on the clay soils which
predominate in the south east of the
country, are already familiar with the
benefits of using the collapsible type,
such as Dufaylite Clayboard, over the
compressible fill alternatives, made
from polystyrene. The difference
is that Clayboard is much thinner,
allowing for more panels per lorry to
be delivered and means less soil has to
be excavated keeping down the muck
away costs and the ever-increasing
Landfill Tax duties. Now Clayboard has
another string to its bow : users can
order it factory wrapped in sections,
enhancing the protection of the product and also saving the installer valuable time.
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Design & Display Structures Goes On A
Space Odyssey
A piece of modern art, built by GRP experts Design & Display
Structures, has brought an intergalactic flavour to Leeds’
tallest building, nicknamed ‘The Dalek’. Artists Bryan and
Laura Davies referenced a wide range of futuristic sources
for their ‘Hello Friends’ sculpture including Stanley Kubrick’s
iconic film, 2001 – A Space Odyssey. The 17.5m high column
sculpture is located in the atrium of Bridgewater Place in
Leeds. The monolithic concept was brought to life using
a series of nine vertically stacked red GRP modules. The
company’s modular off site manufacturing and fast erection
times made them the perfect choice for this landmark piece.
It has inspired and intrigued residents through a series of
brightly lit images displayed within each of its nine sections.
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The SGB Universal Staircase
Offers Real Versatility
The Universal Staircase is a most versatile
staircase solution. Designed to fit tube
and fitting scaffolds, it is made from
lightweight aluminium, comes pre-
assembled and is quick and easy to install.
Self-locking hooks secure the staircase to a
scaffold tube or similar member at the top,
and lift height adjustment is automatic.
Once the required angle has been achieved,
the unit is locked in position. The SGB
Universal Staircase - which conforms to BS
EN 12811 and WAH requirements - comes
in a range of heights up to 3.5m; is flat-
packed; features steel reinforced feet to
provide a robust footing and incorporates
detachable guardrail units which locate into
sockets on side of the stair.
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Urbis Lighting Lights Up
Jacobs Ladder
Jacobs Ladder in Falmouth has recently
had new handrails fitted with state of the
art LED lights to light up the flight of 111
steps. Urbis Lighting have replaced the
old handrails with stainless steel handrails
with LED lighting strips on the underside,
which will enable the steps to be lit fully
without the need to lay cables or disturb
any ground as the cabling is carried within
the central rail. The LEDs are fitted in
such a way that, in the event of failure,
the remaining LEDs will still operate,
ensuring sections of the steps remain lit.
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Sterk Introduces A Winch Option On Its Triangular Bridge System
Sterk Systems’ Triangular Bridge scaffold system has
received an update with the addition of a winch option
to the range. Warwickshire-based builder RJ Thompson
Building Services is the latest customer to invest in a
Triangular Bridge system featuring an integral winch to
meet health and safety concerns. The company decided
to purchase a Triangular Bridge system to use for the
replacement of fascias and soffits. A nine-metre long
system incorporating a winch was duly ordered, with
a variable height between three and five metres. The
Triangular Bridge’s winch system is supplied as an integral
part of the base section of the supports. The bridge is
assembled on the ground, complete with floor boards,
handrails and safety end rails and simply winched into
place once complete. At the required height, the bridge is locked into place with security pins. It can
also be winched up when loaded, with load capacities varying according to the span of the bridge.
Sterk Systems’ Triangular Bridge scaffold is lightweight and easy to erect. A 12-metre span weighs less
than 50kg, rests on just two bearers and can be erected by two people in 15 minutes.
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Fibreglass Grating Replaces Steel Grating
at Heysham Power Station
Over a period of years, excessive corrosion had occurred to
the existing galvanised steel cooling water gully covers.
The corroded steel grating was a potential safety hazard,
and the covers were difficult to remove without lifting
equipment. Fibreglass Grating Ltd supplied replacement
lightweight no-maintenance DuraTread Grating to all areas.
The new 38mm thick Gully covers can be handled easily
when maintenance and repairs take place. The anti-slip
gritted surface provides secure footing in all weathers. The
Grating Cover Panels are non-magnetic, non-sparking, non-
conductive, and completely maintenance-free. Floor Grating
is available in various panel sizes and thicknesses, and
manufactured to ISO9001 specifications.
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ISSUE 2 2008 BI 89

Hodgson & Hodgson
Strengthens Relationship
With Westleigh
Developments
Hodgson & Hodgson Group Limited is
again supplying residential building
specialist Westleigh Developments
with noise control products. The
Westleigh development, on the site
of the former Northampton Machinery
Company, comprises eight houses
and 138 apartments in six blocks. By
replacing the original batten system
with Hodgson & Hodgson’s acoustic
flooring material, the thickness of the
floors was reduced and labour costs
minimised. The project used Sound
Floor STI acoustic flooring board made
from an 18mm P5 moisture-resistant
chipboard, bonded to 30mm of high-
density mineral wool backing to give
good impact sound absorption as well
as adding to airborne sound absorption.
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90 BI ISSUE 2 2008
Ashtech Provides The Crowning
Glory For Kingsgate
2500m² Ashtech Rainscreen Cladding panels have
been employed to help transform the Kingsgate
Shopping Centre in Dunfermline, Scotland. The
newly refurbished centre will feature a new
3-storey car park completely clad in Ashtech
metallic silver, perforated Rainscreen panels with
feature flying buttress column casings. This is
also coupled with the Ashtech-clad 3-storey car
park above the centre with over 700 spaces. The
panels were supplied to site pre-sized and cut
for ease of installation from Ash & Lacy’s newly
expanded Glasgow premises. The perforations
in the rainscreen cladding ensure the car park
remains ventilated; whilst allowing natural
daylight in to illuminate the building.
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Rock Provides Welcome
Retail Therapy
Rock Asphalte has delivered a shining
combination of advanced waterproofing
systems to the new £350million jewel in
Leicester’s crown. The New Shires is part of
a major regeneration programme and Rock
Asphalte has been involved in the design
process from the very beginning.
The concrete roof areas and multi-storey
car park benefit from Rock Asphalte’s
durable Flexiphalte Triple Protection System.
Flexiphalte Pommar, an advanced polymer
modified asphalt, is then fully bonded to the membrane. The multi-storey car park then received a
top coat of Flexiphalte Vehicular Deck paving grade asphalt. Elsewhere, a range of lightweight roofing
techniques were used on the Cinema and comms room. A triple layer of acoustic Verspanel on the Cinema
provides a 55dB noise reduction. The residential areas also fell under Rock Asphalte’s proven expertise.
The works included the courtyard areas, situated above the second floor of the retail space, and the
external detail, including eyebrow canopies.
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SGB Mastclimbers® In Big Demand On Battic Place Development
Clever design work by SGB has helped overcome the problem
of tight space restrictions on the Baltic Place development
at Gateshead Quay where SGB has supplied 21 of its Mast
Climbing Work Platforms (MCWP) for work on two office
blocks. The SGB Mastclimbers® on site consist of nine single
mast units and twelve twin mast units, each being designed
to follow the contours of the buildings and allow access at a
constant distance from the face.
The twin mast units have been installed with different level
base units which required them to be built initially as two
separate MCWP which were then joined together. The MCWP
can be positioned extremely accurately, literally providing
‘inch perfect’ working, with significant on-site productivity
benefits to be achieved. The system offers quick erection and dismantling times and there is minimal
disruption at ground level making it ideal for restricted sites such as the one at Baltic Place.
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B/i : the book!
Geze UK Drives Innovation
Number Eleven Gets
When shedkm was having difficulty finding
The PERI Ltd Treatment the appropriate entrance for Birmingham’s
former Fort Dunlop tyre factory and the
nearby Travelodge, it turned to GEZE
UK. The ideal door had to reflect the
industrial scale of the building, meet
disability requirements and reduce heat
loss. GEZE UK’s circular sliding drum
door was the answer. shedkm specified
two bespoke Slimdrive SCR drum-shaped
sliding doors to the front and rear of the
factory and TSA 160 swing doors for the
adjoining Travelodge. GEZE UK supplied the
freestanding Slimdrive SCR entrance doors
which each feature two sets of sliding
doors four metres apart so that when
someone passes through the first set of
doors, they close behind them before the
set in front opens, minimising air loss.
PERI Ltd’s RCS-P (Rail Climbing System - Protection) and RCS-C (Rail Climbing System - Core)
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prestigious projects. Number Eleven, Brindley Place will feature Grade A office accommodation. www.buildinginnovations.co.uk/card
The PERI RCS-P system with climbing shoe is designed for use on high rise buildings, offering
protection on three levels of construction. A series of plywood clad steel framed panels are
secured to the building by means of the climbing guide shoe. This effectively prevents workers
from falling from height and eliminates the threat of falling tools and debris. RCS-C is being used
to safely construct the core walls which in turn provide the strength and stability of the building.
Combined with this climbing technology is PERI’s SKYDECK Aluminium slab formwork, which is
strong and lightweight.
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Alimak SE-T Temporary Lift Range
When major refurbishment projects are carried
out on continuously occupied buildings, Alimak
Hek can provide the answer to maintaining
access for all. The ALIMAK SE-T temporary lift
range is the ideal solution for maintaining lift
services during the refurbishment, replacement or
extended maintenance of existing lifting systems.
The ALIMAK SE-T offers robust flexibility, whilst
incorporating all the features and comforts you
would associate with a traditional internal lift. The
ALIMAK SE-T can be erected quickly and efficiently,
minimising disruption to the surrounding area
and avoiding inconvenience for members of the
public. The lift only requires a pit depth of 525mm
and does not require a separate machinery room
or supportive lift shaft as all motors and drive
equipment are located on top of the lift car itself.
The SE-T temporary lift range is quick and easy to
erect and dismantle.
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ISSUE 2 2008 BI 91
 B/i : the book!
We Recommend
Schlüter, We
Use Schlüter
Ceramic Tile Distributors, who are currently celebrating 40 years
of distributing tiles and accessories throughout the UK, had long-
standing experience to know exactly what essential protection
was needed to ensure their new showroom in Glasgow will stay
looking as good in years to come, as the day it opened. Having
outgrown their existing Glasgow premises, CTD built a new
showroom a couple of miles away, along with a trade counter,
offices and warehouse. The 372
m2 showroom floor was tiled
with Vitra 440 x 440 Cemento
Mink, extending into the trade
counter, and a number of
Schlüter profiles were specified
to ensure the installation’s
long-lasting integrity. Regional
Director Peter Hindley, who
has been with CTD for 17
years, said: “CTD has grown considerably with a number of new
branches, and we needed a better showroom and warehouse.
Of course, we wanted to install the correct profiles to ensure
the tiles were fully protected. Schlüter are the specialists in
essential tile protection, we advise our customers on the use of Schlüter, and we wanted the
best for ourselves, too. We recommend Schlüter, so we used Schlüter.” Schlüter®-DILEX-AKWS
was specified to create tile fields which move independently of each other, including following
substrate movement joints in the surface, ensuring that the tiles on the showroom floor won’t
crack, split or debond. Schlüter®-RENO-U transition profiles protect the exposed edge of the tiles
at the entrance to the toilets, warehouse and canteen, where there is no covering surface on the
concrete substrate. The substrate was prepared with Ardex K-15 self-leveling compound, and the
tiles fixed with BAL MOTO bond adhesive. The installation was finished with Ardex C2 Grey grout.
In addition, Schlüter®-TREP-E stair nosing profiles were fitted to the front edge of the stairs
leading from the showroom to the offices. The work was carried out by Newcastle-based Albert
Donerly Tiling Contractors, who are experienced in tiling showrooms for the industry, and for
other parts of the Saint-Gobain business, e.g. Jewsons and Grahams. It was a double 40th
celebration for Peter Hindley – as well as helping the company celebrate 40 years in business, it
is also Peter’s 40th wedding anniversary.

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92 BI ISSUE 2 2008 ISSUE 2 2008 BI 93


Sureset Resin Bound Surfacing’s
Major Contribution To Campus
Originally renowned for its strong industrial background Newcastle
has now become a vibrant city with numerous and diverse cultural
activities and many new buildings of architectural merit.
Recently added to the list is the new City Campus East development at
Northumbria University where concepts designed with environmental
sustainability in mind have already won several accolades for both the
university and those involved in the project’s development.
Resin bound surfacing specialist, SureSet, had their materials
incorporated in many areas of hard landscaping.Within the main
campus area 4033 m2 of 6mm Forest Green/Sterling Silver mix have
been laid within pedestrian access areas and also as part of a central
feature depicting left and right sides of the brain.
A further 10m2 of Sterling Silver have been used elsewhere with 42
Tree Pits having been installed as well, using 10mm Sterling Silver.
The project also incorporates a new bridge crossing the central
motorway, allowing students and local communities access to the
existing City Campus.
A striking aspect of its design is the utilisation of SureSet to create
the words, ‘Northumbria University’ within the footpath. To achieve
94 BI ISSUE 2 2008
B/i : the book!
Aliva Engineering And LMC Group
Combine To Deliver Total Supply &
Installation Services
Problems with the supply & installation of stone
cladding arose at the new Quad Centre in Derby,
meaning construction work on the prestigious
cinema & arts centre was temporarily put on
hold. These problems were costly and could have
meant alterations to the plans, adding additional
costs and further delays to the project. The main
contractors needed to find a new supplier with
the necessary design experience and the available
resources to get the project back on track, and
Aliva Engineering, working with LMC Group, were
able to meet all their requirements.
Aliva proposed a re-design of the modular stone clad lay-out which would achieve the original architectural objectives; their proposed solution
also considered the internal through-wall sub-grids, outer-wall insulation and glass curtaining. Having successfully demonstrated their ability
to resolve the supply problems and to minimise the impact these were having on the original schedules & budgets, Aliva Engineering needed to
appoint a specialist installation partner with the additional skills and resources necessary to ensure timely completion of the project. LMC Group
was identified as the ideal partner with whom to collaborate.
Their brief was to ensure health & safety considerations were in place, provide labour & management, regularly report on progress and be
proactive in overcoming issues associated with highly complex projects of this nature. The result of this collaboration is that with delays to the
Quad Centre were minimised, the original architectural plans maintained and the installation was free of any further problems.
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Project Scotland 147.5x210copy.qxd 26/2/08 09:48 Page 1
lindab rainline | the sustainable rainwater system
Why would you want
plastic when you
can have STEEL
the desired result SureSet initially prepared laser cut MDF stencils from • Made from galvanised steel sheeting Lindab Rainline is one of the most
the plans as templates with metal edging being formed into position sustainable rainwater systems available on the market today.
around the MDF to create the characters.
At the same time these were filled with 6mm Forest Green for • Steel is a material that is recyclable, extremely environmentally friendly
transportation to site where the background colour of 6mm Sterling and has a natural place in the modern approach to sustainability.
Silver was then laid up to them. The third element making use of • Gutters and downpipes simply push together without the need for
SureSet is a landscape ‘make-over’ for Ellison Courtyard, an area within any sealants.
the original City Campus. The courtyard forms part of the walkway
linking existing buildings to the new footbridge and continuing on to • The only maintenance required after installation is an occasional wipe
City Campus East. or washdown.
Here a mix of 6mm Forest Green and 6mm Sterling blends from each
• Our environmental work enjoys high priority and focuses on minimising
end to give a 50/50 mix at its central point with 10mm Sterling
being used for Tree Pits. For SLR Insite the choice of materials had to the use of raw materials, components, energy, packaging and transport.
balance the competing demands of sustainability and longevity and to
Call 0121 585 2780 for further information.
this end SureSet were able to source much of its raw material locally.
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ISSUE 2 2008 BI 95
 External Rendered Timber
Façade Restoration
Sun Hill cottage originally dates from the 16th Century on a
major highway in Royston, Cambridgeshire. The side rear walls
of the property remain as the original timber framed structure,
finished in a combination of half timbering and lime render
over lathes fixed in the structural timber frame. From the visible
bowing of the external render, it was clear that there were
inherent problems.
The owner consulted the Local Authority who required that the
walls of the Grade II listed building be made good and restored,
with lime render and coating in an approved colour shade. As
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Specialists, Castlework Contractors, lightly blast cleaned the
surfaces using the highly controllable Rotec Whirljet cleaning
equipment, to enable the nature and condition of the structure
to be exposed from beneath the render and layers of paint. It
became clear that previous restoration work had not been up to
the required standards.
Much of the original lime render had been replaced with a much
stronger mix of sand and cement. In several areas the original
lathes had been removed, leaving an empty void. The render
had been applied directly onto a galvanised steel mesh that was
nailed across the structural oak timbers.

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96 BI ISSUE 2 2008

New Entrance Forms Part Of
Major Refurbishment
A modernised entrance incorporating an
automatic revolving door to an 8-storey
office building at 33 St Mary Axe, London
EC3, has been supplied and fitted by
Structura UK Ltd. The new entrance, which
replaced a glazed screen that incorporated
a single set of automatic sliding doors,
consists of a structurally glazed screen,
with glass fins, in 15mm clear, toughened
glass, a Touniket revolving door and two
low-energy, automatic, DDA-compliant
pass doors located either side of the
revolving door. Structura also installed a
full width, bronze anodised canopy and
soffit panels. Internally, Structura provided
six sets of frameless glass lift lobby doors
and screens, and one frameless glass
reception screen.
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98 BI ISSUE 2 2008
Sadolin Colours Hotel
Ten new self catering chalets have been constructed in the
grounds of the Crieff Hydro Hotel in Scotland, and thanks to
Sadolin Superdec woodstain, they are providing a stunningly
eye catching addition to the hotel. The timber frame, timber
clad two storey structures combine luxury accommodation
with innovative design through colour and materials. Some
of the chalets are clad with weatherboarding and all are
on a white rendered base course. The colour scheme is
particularly striking with Sadolin Superdec opaque woodstain
applied in a variety of unusual shades, including Volcanic
Ash, Limestone Antler Brown for optimum visual impact. The
Superdec system of water borne opaque coatings comprises
a two coat application solution offering excellent resistance
to weathering and deterioration. It has an alkyd acrylic
formulation rendering it highly flexible and resistant to
flaking, cracking and peeling, common problems with other
wood coating systems.
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AM Profiles Offers A Sweet Pill
AM Profiles has recently supplied composite windows
and curtain wall for one of the first installations in
the UK of a complete composite facade. The timber
aluminium composites have been installed at the Old
Brewery at Pill, near Bristol, established 200 years
ago which has undergone extensive renovation to
create modern and efficient offices. The final phase
of the project used two complementary products
designed and supplied by AM Profiles, a timber framed
aluminium clad curtain wall system and ‘Design-5’ a
timber framed aluminium clad window system. Chosen
for its natural integration within the building and
its slender sight lines the curtain walling mullions
are only 56mm wide and 160mm in depth so provide
a fine balance between the buildings visual and
structural requirements.
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Echoing Success For Trent Concrete
Mario Minchella Architects loved the curved white precast
exterior of City Gate in Newcastle so much they specified it
for their own £38 million new build, Echo 24, a high-quality
apartment development in Sunderland. But it wasn’t just
aesthetic beauty they wanted to achieve for this landmark
build. They wanted speed of installation, acoustic insulation
and durability. Architect, Mario Minchella explained: “When
we saw the product on City Gate we knew it would be right
for Echo 24 because we needed a product that offered clean,
crisp lines, good weathering performance and excellent
acoustic properties. The result was a high quality finish that
also simplified integration with other materials”.
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Capital Job For Pyeroy As It
Wins Multi-million Pound
Bridges’ Contract
Expanding protective coatings specialist the
Pyeroy Group has won a £7 million contract
to refurbish two of London’s most famous
bridges. The contract will see the firm
repainting the world famous Tower Bridge
and Southwark Bridge. The company’s well
advanced on a multi-million pound contract
to repaint 40,000 metres of the southern
section of the Forth Rail Bridge. Its also
recently completed a £1.3 million contract
to refurbish North London’s Iron Bridge
for Transport for London. A refurbishment
programme for Tower Bridge will see a team
of Pyeroy contractors scaffold, grit blast
and re-paint section by section the iconic
244 metre long structure. Further upstream,
work is already underway by Pyeroy on the
refurbishment programme for Southwark
Bridge. An important environmental aspect
of the work is that complete bridge sections
will be encapsulated within protective
sheeting erected by Pyeroy to capture and
prevent paint flakes from falling into the
Thames or onto passing pedestrians.
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B/i : the book!
Titon Secures Glasgow
Regeneration Development
A new development of flats in a Glasgow
regeneration project has been fitted with Titon
Sobinco door handles, single and three-point
locks and electric strikes as part of a communal
entrance doors and door entry system. The Oatlands
development is the first phase of six in a major
regeneration of the former Gorbals area of Glasgow.
The specification included high security Titon
Sobinco 8600 Series single door locks. A Grand
Master Suite central locking system utilises Sobinco
880 Series Euro-Profile half-cylinders. Added security
is provided by Sobinco 787-X-136 series electric
strikes. Titon Sobinco 826 CL internal door handles,
aluminium round lever handles incorporating long
zinc alloy backplates have been fitted at Oatlands.
The external handles were Sobinco 836 L-VI door
pulls installed with long backplates.
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Ward Adds Perfect Finish To Ilva
Super Store
Ward Insulated Panels has supplied a total
insulated roofing solution for the flagship
superstore of European furniture retailer Ilva
in Manchester. Ilva has built a reputation for
innovation in product design and the new store
fulfils this ambition. The roof was constructed
using 6300 m² of Ward Topdek, a factory pre-
engineered composite roof panel that offers faster
onsite assembly compared to traditional single ply
roofing methods. It comprises a high performance
single-ply PVC outer membrane integrally bonded
to a Firesafe rigid PIR insulation core approved
to LPBC standards, and a steel trapezoidal inner
deck, which provide structural support.
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Syntha Pulvin Sails Into Port
Portsmouth’s iconic Spinnaker Tower will stay ship-
shape for years to come with Valspar’s leading powder
coating. Unrivalled quality, backed up by a 25 year
warranty, was a key reason why Syntha Pulvin was
asked aboard the dramatic sail-shaped project. Valspar
approved applicator Metalion Ltd applied Syntha
Pulvin, specially mixed to replicate the colour of the
external render, to the lift areas and observation
deck. There are more than 100 colours available in the
Syntha Pulvin Matt and Metallic ranges. Syntha Pulvin
products are recyclable and can be applied to alu-
minium and galvanised steel window frames, cladding
panels, curtain walling, roofing and most architectural
metalwork.
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ISSUE 2 2008 BI 99