"natural plant based glues and adhesives"

Mead Johnson is a world leader in infant nutrition, with more than 70 products in over 50 countries. Their new US$325 million facility in Singapore includes a state of the art manufacturing plant, research and development centre and a new regional office.

Using materials, shades and textures that work in harmony with rural surroundings is always an important consideration for designers and planners. In Hertfordshire an ancient barn has recently been converted to provide additional accommodation for the nearby house.The new roof of the C16th barn was constructed with Cadisch Welltec perforated profiled aluminium panels over a waterproof membrane. Visible roof lights on such an ancient barn were not permitted but some light is able to penetrate through unobtrusive roof lights which are entirely covered by the perforated Welltec. The outline of the windows can just be made out in the photograph.The corrugated effect of the Welltec already lent a rustic charm to the roof and the owners needed a coating for the aluminium that would both protect the roof and also give the appearance of an old building.Taking inspiration from natural elements, EvolutionTM powder coatings allow architects and designers to achieve the look they need, together with using the most appropriate materials for the job and satisfying planning requirements on a local level.  The panels and ridge cappings totalling over 200 square metres, were pre-treated in a chrome-free system and powder coated in EvolutionTM ‘Peat fire’ at Powdertech’s Corby plant, before being delivered to site for installation. Peat fire is an earthy shade, instantly giving an aged look to the roof. It is a shade that one might expect on a weathered ‘tin roof’ – but in this case the metal stands the Evolution™ system.”  BenefitsA wide range of effects to reflect the patinas that occur naturally on metalsExcellent visual and tactile detailHigh performance weather resistanceGood edge coverageAll powders are Qualicoat 1Leaves no residue or stainTwenty-five year guarantee.

Technical advice and quality subfloor preparation products and flooring adhesives from Bostik have enabled the progress of a new hospital building.Built to address capacity and demand issues, the new 3,600m² three storey ward block at Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital will treat high-dependency patients and stroke victims across two of its floors, with the other floor actingas an acute medical unit (AMU).Nationwide Flooring Contracts

Find out why IOBAC Adhesive-Free Magnetic Flooring was specified by innovative house-builder Etopia for its BRE test house showcasing best-in-class sustainable buildings.The magnetically receptive Ezy-Install Underlay took just 45 mins to lay over the 55m2 ground floor area, followed by 3 hours to dry install magnetic Karndean Luxury Vinyl Tile in a modern herringbone pattern.

Air Charter was refurbishing its UK headquarters into a space where its staff could refresh, relax and enjoy some downtime. Milliken's Rootwork LVT with FlexForm Sound™ was chosen for the floor covering to provide a beautiful wood plank aesthetic combined with enhcanced acoustic performance and exceptional slip resistance. The product's loose lay format made for a fast and efficient adhesive-free installation process. This is a Carbon Neutral product.

Ronafix Pre-packed Wearing Screed 15mm+ was used in the plant rooms and loading bays at One Canada Square. The London skyscraper is the 3rd tallest building in the UK, has nearly 10,000 people working on-site and takes 130,000 deliveries each year!

ASA Landscape Architects were appointed by the UKAEA to design a new vibrant landscape to replace the tired patch of grass in a quadrangle within the Culham Science Centre. The brief was to design a place that would be used as a meeting area for lunch and other social events, supporting the restaurant situated within the building. The focus is on the tenant’s mental well-being by encouraging rich social experiences.Katie Dixon from ASA Landscape Architects explains: “We wanted to create an exciting landscape and have based our concept on the idea of the atom and its energy and motion. By dividing the landscape into smaller areas with the use of paths, avenues of trees, linear planting beds with grasses and Corten steel screens, we wanted to encourage more intimate spaces for smaller group gatherings and meetings. This was further enhanced by including a range of outdoor furniture by mmcité throughout the site to facilitate meeting areas,” she ends.“It was an inspiring project,” Jana Tyrer from mmcité comments on the cooperation, “the architects together with the client have decided to use grey HPL and bicolour orange and grey powder coating of steel construction to match the company colours of UKAEA.”Playful yet very comfortable and calming environment, Culham’s quadrangle makes a perfect example of the new approach to public space, and its set up.

F. Ball and Co. Ltd.’s rapid-setting, ultra-smooth floor finishing compound has delivered a fast-track solution for refurbishing the iconic Nelson Staircase at Somerset House, London.As part of ongoing maintenance and improvement works, flooring contractor Carpet Culture was commissioned to restore the steps and one of the main landings of the historic Beaux-Arts staircase, which spans six floors and dates back to the late 18th century, when the Royal Navy occupied the building.Contractors began by removing old floorcoverings and adhesive residues from the steps and the 40m2 landing.The landing was destroyed by a bomb in the Second World War and subsequently restored with concrete, meaning that it would require raising in order for floorcoverings to meet the level of the original stone border, but less than the minimum application thickness of a smoothing compound. Additionally, work required completing over two nights, between the hours of 6-11pm, while the building was unoccupied, meaning there was not time to mechanically prepare the concrete area.Contractors, therefore, applied two coats of Stopgap Micro Rapid floor finishing compound to create a perfectly smooth surface for the receipt of floorcoverings.Stone effect LVTs were then installed on the landing and risers and treads of the stairs, and Stycco Flex rapid-curing, flexible tube adhesive was used to affix Gradus stair nosings. The high strength build-up and fast curing time of the adhesive means it can secure stair nosings and trims in as little as 60 minutes, without the need for mechanical fixings.Tom McCullough, senior flooring manager at Carpet Culture, said: “We were grateful to our F. Ball technical representative for suggesting using Stopgap Micro Rapid as an alternative to applying a smoothing compound so that we could complete the work out of hours, on time. It worked a treat, and we received compliments for how it looked even before the floorcoverings went down.”

ESSENZA HOME opts for a sustainable green façadeInterior and lifestyle brand ESSENZA HOME has moved into a new, completely renovated office in Bunnik in 2021. The new office is entirely sustainability-oriented. The Mobilane green façade at Essenza Home contributes to the company’s sustainability vision and provides a warm welcome for its retailers, customers, and staff. Family business ESSENZA HOME has been designing, producing, and distributing home & living products to suit various interior styles for 60 years. In 2021, the company moved to a new office in Bunnik. The building of no less than 2500 m2 is located directly on the A12 motorway. The new premises was built with an eye to the future and aligned with their sustainability vision. Therefore, the sustainable green Mobilane façade was a logical choice.Installation of the green façadeThe installation of the green walls was quick and easy. The green walls, with a total surface area of over 200 square meters, were placed against the stone and wooden façade by means of Magnelis steel omega profiles. The design incorporated the window and door sections and the water and electricity pipes.The almost 10,000 plants are installed in modular cassettes and pixels attached to the profiles. All of the cassettes, pixels, and covers are made of a fire-retardant EPP (B-s2, d0). This material is light, UV-resistant, air-permeable (for good root growth), and fully recyclable. An automated irrigation system provides the MobiPanel green walls with water and nutrients.Plant selection for the green façadeThe plants in the green facades were selected according to various factors. The orientation of the façade, the different flowering seasons, plants that stimulate biodiversity, and, finally, aesthetics were all considered. For example, Bregenis ‘Bressingham White’ is a beautiful spring bloomer with elegant white flowers that bloom from April onwards. The Vinca minor is a strong evergreen covering plant. It also flowers very early in spring. Vinca minor can be used on facades in both sunny and shady spots. The Vinca will produce more flowers in the sun than in the shade. Geranium Rozanne is a carrier plant for wild bees. Many species of wild bees, as well as butterflies and bumblebees, find their nectar here.Advantages of the green façadeThe green wall on the two outer walls is a real eye-catcher. Floor Smits, Head of Brands and second generation in the family business: “As a family business, we find it important to focus on the long term. During the renovation, we, therefore, invested heavily in sustainable solutions. When we were introduced to the possibility of a vertical garden for the façade, we were immediately enthusiastic. The green wall has many advantages, such as purifying the air, increasing biodiversity, and providing a nice haven for bees and other insects. Finally, we want to make a statement and show that we are committed to a sustainable world.” In addition to the office, there is also a b2b showroom and a brand store will be opened for consumers this year.Increased biodiversityRosalie Smits, Head of Channels and also the second generation of the family business, indicates that biodiversity is an important spearhead for the organization.The green façade attracts many insects, thus stimulating biodiversity in the area. As described earlier, the flowers of Geranium Rozanne, among others, provide nectar for many insects such as the wild bee and butterflies. Wild bees and butterflies are an important link in our food chain. They provide 60% of the pollination of our fruit and vegetables.The facades also attract various birds and other insects and serve both as food and as nesting and hiding places. In the cassettes between the plants, birds can nest safely. The first bird’s nest in the green façade at Essenza Home was found just a few weeks after installation.Client: ESSENZA HOMEArchitect: BK PuntConstruction period: 2021Installation: MobiCare

The Vaughan Way development in Leicester features state-of-the-art apartments above a two storey car park. While this gives residents the best of both worlds – city living and parking in a limited footprint – it represents a challenge for developers in the form of thermal bridging.Most car parks feature open walls to allow adequate ventilation of exhaust fumes, so the separating floor must be well insulated to prevent warm air from the flats escaping into the car park below. With this in mind, main contractor Winvic approached Knauf Insulation for advice on the best insulation to specify in order to achieve the specified U-value of 0.2 W/m²K.Knauf Insulation’s Technical Support Team conducted U-value calculations to determine the thickness of Soffit Linerboard required. They then worked closely with Winvic to provide technical advice to ensure all design considerations were addressed.Soffit Linerboard is a robust Rock Mineral Wool slab. It is a high-performance thermal insulation and offers excellent sound absorption to provide high levels of sound reduction; something residents will appreciate when their neighbours are parking below.Soffit Linerboard is also non-combustible, with an A1 Euroclass Reaction to Fire Classification, essential to comply with changes to the building regulations, as Vaughan Way will be more than 18m tall when complete.Soffit Linerboard is one of more than 40 Rock Mineral Wool insulation products produced at Knauf Insulation’s Queensferry plant. It is manufactured with ECOSE® Technology, Knauf Insulation’s unique bio-based binder that contains no added formaldehyde or phenol. It is made from natural raw materials that are rapidly renewable, and is less energy-intensive to manufacture than traditional binder, so it is more environmentally-friendly.Products made with ECOSE® Technology are soft to touch and easy to handle. They generate low levels of dust and VOCs, and have been awarded the Eurofins Gold Certificate for Indoor Air Comfort.The insulation was delivered direct to site by distributors Encon in Nottingham and was installed by sub-contractors L Reynolds.From the additional warmth, to noise reduction and improved safety, adding Soffit Linerboard to the separating floor between the car park and flats will make city living even more pleasant for the residents of Vaughan Way.

A host of Bostik subfloor preparation and adhesive products have been used for the installation of the floor coveringsat Wixams Retirement Village, a recently opened care community in Bedfordshire.Contractor Unite Flooring was appointed to install luxury vinyl tiles and carpeting throughout the apartments and communal areas of the complex, contributing to its pleasant and relaxing atmosphere. Unite then selected a range of products from Bostik, and benefitted from the company’s technical advice throughout the project.

Residential New Build apartment and spa area, consisting of 141 apartments.21 loft apartments required a design lead shower solution for which waterproof XPS round shaped floor shower elements, bathboards for tileable cladding of baths and XPS building boards were supplied in 12.5mm thickness for walls and 10mm thickness for floors.120 Apartments had XPS floor level shower elements featuring a drainage channel right next to the wall, a completely continuous slope right to the channel and more flexible adjustment for the channel. 12.5 & 10mm XPS building boards were used on walls and floors.This was the first installation that we know of in the UK where the boards in the shower area were fixed to the studwork solely by a versatile single component adhesive sealant (wedi 610), ensuring no penetrations through the boards. The special formulation is especially suited to waterproof butt joints of building boards, and has outstanding resistance to the elements; and to chemicals; and is also free of solvents, silicon and PCP.As an abP-approved system, the use of the adhesive sealant and XPS building boards reduces installation time by up to 50% because no further sealing is required, even in areas of high humidity.

Case Study – Power Grab ‘n’ Bond Customer: Signal Signs – OmaghProject: Pat Kirk Car Showroom, Strabane Power Grab ‘n’ Bond Eliminates the Need for Mechanical Fixings!Mechanical fixings on bright, new external facades can be ugly and distracting, especially when being installed at the entrance of Pat Kirk Motors stunning new car showroom in Strabane, Northern Ireland.With clean lines and seamless transitions throughout the building, mechanical fixings where exactly what the architect DID NOT want. This was the challenge presented to Michael from specialist installers McLaughlin Joinery who were tasked with fabricating the entrance and installing the façade design created by Signal Signs on extra-large 1500x3000mm sheets of Dibond® aluminium composite metal panels. A Stickler for Quality!Being a real stickler for quality and perfection Michael McLaughlin believes in always using the best materials, tools and brands to ensure the best, most durable and superior finish on his projects. He immediately sourced Power Grab ‘n’ Bond as he knew it is the best construction adhesive in the market, with excellent initial grab and exceptional tensile and sheer strength. Guaranteed to adhere to metal, wood and concrete substrates it totally eliminates the need for additional mechanical fixings. Power Grab ‘n’ Bond is developed by leading British manufacturers CT1, the No1 sealant and adhesive in the UK. CT1 is always leading and providing the industry with the very latest technology. Now thanks to its unique ‘Tribrid®’ technology Power Grab ‘n’ Bond is a revolutionary product in the field of heavy-duty versatile bonding. Why Choose Power Grab ‘n’ Bond?Working with large Dibond® metal 1500x3000mm panels being installed at height in an external environment Michael and his team needed a solution that would grab, hold and act instantly without needing to be braced and supported. With incredible initial grab, Power Grab ‘n’ Bond is a fast curing, non-shrinking and almost odourless adhesive that held the metal sheets with immediate effect.Three times stronger than regular hybrid polymers, the ‘Tribrid®’ technology in Power Grab n Bond ensures a phenomenal final tensile strength of 22kg/cm2, yet remains flexible, won’t dry out nor become brittle and will work effectively in temperatures ranging from 90°C right down to the Baltic cold -40°C.In fact, not only does Power Grab ‘n’ Bond successfully stick Dibond® to wood and concrete it will adhere to all metals (including lead), stone, granite, ytong, marble, MDF, fiberglass, glass, polystyrene, mirrors and most plastics (except PP, PE and PTFE).Creating a Superior Mechanical Fixing Free FinishUsing a heavy-duty caulking gun, Michael applied Power Grab ‘n’ Bond straight from the cartridge, onto the back of the Dibond® Sheets, allowing it to rest for 4-5minutes to begin activating, before fixing them directly into place.Originally created for facades and heavy stonework such as the installation of quoins, the versatility, strength and reliability of Power Grab ‘n’ Bond means it now used more widely by professional shop fit out companies as well as specialist trades, landscapers, kitchen fitters and bathroom installers. It is tested by a UKAS Accredited lab to BS EN 12003 (Determination of shear adhesion strength of reaction resin adhesives) and BS EN1308 (Determination of slip resistance).Power Grab ‘n’ Bond provided the perfect solution as it’s the ultimate grab adhesive, eliminating the use of mechanical fixings completely and coupled with the rapid curing characteristics saved a lot of additional labour time and cost.Michael said;“The result is exactly what the architect and client wanted, a stunning external façade, with no unattractive mechanical fixings, that not only makes a statement entrance but creates a stunning backdrop for promo photos of new cars too.”Grab also ‘n’ Bond is made in Britain with British technology and British design. Its available now in all good builders’ merchants nationwide and online from www.ct1.comCT1 often copied never equalled!We Innovate – Not Imitate!

CRT Flooring Specialists Ltd have used UltraFloor’s latest product innovation, Level IT Hydra Bond, to install 800sqm of vinyl flooring at Warrington’s £4.3 million Emergency Department extension.BackgroundLeading infrastructure and building specialists, Tilbury Douglas, have been appointed by Warrington and Halton Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust to complete the £4.3 million Warrington Emergency Department extension.The much-needed investment will increase capacity, improve patient care and modernise facilities.The ChallengeHigh performance products that would work quickly and withstand the constant and heavy trafficking of hospital staff, patients and medical equipment were critical to the success of this project.The SolutionFollowing a bespoke site specification completed by UltraFloor’s Technical Training and Site Support Manager, Martin Pouncey, CFA members and expert flooring contractors, CRT Flooring Specialists Ltd, used DPM IT, Prime IT Multi-surface Primer and Level IT Hydra Bond to complete the 800sqm installation.DPM IT is a two component, solvent free epoxy resin system for use as a surface damp proof membrane. Designed to provide protection against subfloor moisture, DPM IT has a pot life of 45 – 75 minutes, a cure time of 5 hours and boasts a 98% RH floor moisture tolerance.Formulated to promote adhesion to all UltraFloor smoothing underlayments, Prime IT Multi-surface Primer reduces pinholing, minimising the risk of costly failures. With a coverage rate of 200m² at 3:1 dilution, Prime IT multi-surface Primer is a must-have product for all flooring installation projects.Once fully dried, UltraFloor Level IT Hydra Bond was applied across the 800sqm area. Level IT Hydra Bond is a ground-breaking, water based floor leveller that can be applied to bitumen and adhesive residues without the need to prime.Level IT Hydra Bond is a super polymer modified smoothing compound which utilises UltraFloor’s unique technology – a process which enhances application and boasts unrivalled flow properties. What’s more, each bag of Level IT Hydra Bond also contains 20% recycled material.In addition, Level IT Hydra Bond can receive bonded floor coverings after 4 hours, has an extended working time of 45 minutes for optimal usability, and is moisture tolerant and protein free.ResultsOn the performance of UltraFloor Level IT Hydra Bond, Richard Martin, Office Manager at CRT Flooring Specialists Ltd, commented: “It’s fantastic. Flows really well.”The vinyl flooring installation was completed on time and the remaining extension work is continuing as scheduled.

Experienced flooring contractors, Variety Carpets, have used a number of UltraFloor’s subfloor preparation materials to install 200sqm of flooring at Priory Academy in Dunstable.BackgroundPriory Academy has served the local Dunstable community for over 100 years and educates 800 pupils every year. In summer 2022 work began to upgrade the flooring in their school kitchen and store rooms.The ChallengeVariety Carpets had a short window to complete the installation and with the Academy only closed for six weeks during the summer holiday, time really was of the essence.The SolutionAfter scarifying the bitumen and vacuuming the area to remove any contaminants, Variety Carpets primed the subfloor with a neat coat of UltraFloor Prime IT Multi-surface Primer.Formulated to promote adhesion to all UltraFloor smoothing underlayments, Prime IT Multi-surface Primer reduces pinholing, minimising the risk of costly failures. With a coverage rate of 200m² at 3:1 dilution, Prime IT multi-surface Primer is a must-have product for all flooring installation projects.The next day, and once Prime IT Multi-surface Primer had fully dried, Level IT Hydra Bond was applied across the 200sqm area at a 3mm depth. Level IT Hydra Bond is a ground-breaking, water based floor leveller that can be applied to bitumen and adhesive residues without the need to prime.Level IT Hydra Bond is a super polymer modified smoothing compound which utilises UltraFloor’s unique technology – a process which enhances application and boasts unrivalled flow properties. What’s more, each bag of Level IT Hydra Bond also contains 20% recycled material.In addition, Level IT Hydra Bond can receive bonded floor coverings after 4 hours, has an extended working time of 45 minutes for optimal usability, and is moisture tolerant and protein free.To complete the installation, Altro Walkway 20, hard wearing vinyl flooring was installed the very next day and finished for a customer inspection on day five.ResultsThanks to the expertise of Variety Carpets, the five day flooring installation was completed on time and without issue. On using UltraFloor, Mark Blanchard, Director at Variety Carpets, commented: “We enjoyed using UltraFloor materials. The wet edge time is ideal for larger areas and warmer weather. The project completed at the end of August 2022 in hot temperatures, so it was really ideal. The set time of 4 hours means when we finished late afternoon, it was suitable to lay on the next day.”

Ten Traffic Street is a 522-bed student accommodation serving luxury living located on a prominent site within Nottingham City Centre. The project was delivered by Jensco and offers excellent amenities such as a cinema, games room, study spaces, onsite coffee shop, indoor and outdoor Gyms and multiple outdoor communal spaces including a roof terrace. Artform Urban worked closely with the Landscape architects, Ares Landscape to provide a substantial package of premium external furniture to ensure the high-end finish extends to the outdoor spaces. The complex is spread across 2 buildings with courtyards and one roof terrace overlooking the city. In total, there are 4 external spaces - each has its own identifiable aesthetic which is driven by the building fascias and window frame colouring which is then reflected in the outdoor furniture.The roof terrace is surrounded by a large Inspira Modular Planting System installation powder-coated in a unique Khaki Grey - bringing colour and natural benefits to the space. The planters house plants and small trees that provide dappled shade to ensure residents can enjoy the terrace on hotter days. Tables, benches, and a Box Litter Bin all in a coordinated colour palette, provide social seating and dining spaces and vibrant plastic Chill Lounger’s and Hop Op 500’s offer a more casual seating option for residents.The ground floor courtyards feature a continuation of benches and Box litter bins - with all steelwork powder coated in a specific colour for each space. An external gym has been provided in the larger courtyard and features two Endurance Wellness Stone installations. These unique sculptural pebbles include stainless steel fixtures to accommodate a variety of exercises. This is the first installation in the UK of these products that are part of a wider range of premium external gym equipment named MyEquilibria. This unique fitness range aims to redefine the workout experience by combining art, high-end design and community. As final additions to the spaces Artform Urban provided an extensive bike parking package as well as Fuente Drinking Fountain’s to encourage students to cycle and reduce plastic waste. 

866,000 tiles were fixed in the London Aquatics Centre, which formed the gateway to the Olympic Park. Products used: ARDEX WPC Waterproof Protection System, ARDEX S 7 Flexible Waterproof Coating for Floors and Walls, ARDEX S 21 Rapid Hardening Floor Tile Bedding Mortar, ARDEX X 77 MICROTEC Flexible Wall & Floor Tile Adhesive, ARDEX-FLEX FL Rapid Setting Flexible Tile Grout for Wide Joints.

The new FIX A320 TACK adhesive was among the Bostik products that – combined with the company’s technical expertise – recently enabled the installation of the flooring on the large site of the new Grange University Hospital in Wales.The state-of-the-art £350m Specialist and Critical Care Centre in Llanfrechfa Grange, Cwmbran is the first major hospital to be built in Wales in more than two decades. It has 2,612 rooms and provides more than 40 specialist services, supported by 3,000 staff.

Includio is a new-build hotel concept and the first of its kind for the city of Regensburg, in the Bavarian region of Germany.  The hotel reception, corridors, bedrooms and conference facilities feature a range of four different Milliken cushion backed modular carpet, as well as its OBEX entrance flooring products. Recognising the importance of maintaining good air quality for its customers’ and its employees’ health and well-being, Includio chose Milliken’s TractionBack® adhesive free installation. 

University of Aberdeen Science Teaching Hub’s development is an ambitious regeneration plan consisting 73,194sq ft teaching and laboratory space over three floors, and a plant room on the fourth.  Location: AberdeenContractor: RobertsonArchitect: RSPAspex supplied: Intercoms, & Access Control throughout the building

This 1,800m2 living wall in Leeds at at recycling & energy recovery facility, is the largest in Europe. It is a vertical forest that incorporates over 100,000 plants including larger shrubs, small trees and over 700 habitat boxes. At 28 metres tall it is also one of Europe’s tallest living walls

The 77 metre long living wall on the link bridge at New Street Station in Birmingham welcomes travellers from all over the country to the centre of the city. The living wall creates a pleasant promenade of calming, green infrastructure amongst this built urban environment with the addition of 16,600 plants.

Topseal PU was specified over numerous roofs on this hospital covering 1000's of metres. Topseal PU was chosen due to its BBA certification, high performance, 25 year guarantee, low odour together with the failed asphalt roofs and amount of plant on the roof it was the perfect product.

Factory International will transform the former Granada Studios into a world-class cultural and arts venue in the heart of Manchester. It features The Hall, a large auditorium, and The Warehouse, a flexible multi-purpose space that is taller than four double-decker buses, longer than a jumbo jet and can accommodate 5,000 visitors.Alongside the two public events spaces are The Towers, which house the ground floor entrance foyer, five floors of office space and a plant room at the top of the building. Noise reduces productivity by 66% so when it came to specifying the soffit insulation for The Towers, the architect wanted a solution that would limit airborne sound transfer and reverberation.The insulation would be on display, so aesthetics was also important, and because Factory International will cater for large crowds of people, the chosen solution needed to be non-combustible.Meeting the briefThe architects specified Knauf Insulation’s 50mm Heraklith® Tektalan A2 SmartTec for the soffit insulation in the ground floor foyer of the Warehouse area, main feature staircase, offices and plant room of The Towers.Heraklith® Tektalan A2 SmartTec is a cement-bonded wood wool panel combined with a rock mineral wool insulation core. Both materials have an open structure that naturally absorbs the kinetic energy of sound waves, turning them into heat. It is also non-combustible with an Euroclass A2-s1,d0 reaction to fire classification.Crucially, the Heraklith® wood wool range is also designed for applications where aesthetics is important because the panel is on display. It features bevelled edges and comes in nature tone as standard, or can be ordered in any RAL colour upon request, to create a stylish, uniform finish.To compliment the design schemes in the different zones across the building, contractors, Mansell Building Solutions, ordered the panels in a combination of midnight blue, pebble grey, anthracite and black.Scheduling deliveriesAs the Factory International site is quite compact, there was little room available for storage. So, Knauf Insulation worked closely with distributor Encon Insulation to ensure the insulation was held in stock. Smaller deliveries were then made in line with Mansell Building Solutions’s schedule of works. This ensured that the insulation could be installed as soon as it arrived on site.The product is quick and easy to install. Panels are fixed into position by installing Heraklith® DDS Plus Concrete Screws into each corner and the centre of the panel. The fastener heads have a patented wood wool texture to enhance the finished appearance.Ultimately, installing Heraklith® Tektalan A2 SmartTec onto the soffits in The Towers and the ground floor foyer of the Warehouse not only compliments the design scheme and contributes to fire safety, but it will enable the team behind the events at Factory International to enjoy a quieter working environment too. 

F. Ball smoothing underlayment and adhesives have played starring roles in the installation of floorcoverings as part of the major refurbishment and extension of one of Scotland’s busiest theatres, Eden Court at Inverness. Flooring contractor Jack Carmichael (Flooring) Ltd of Elgin, were responsible for the installation of floorcoverings throughout the project. This involved a basement cinema, the main 850 seat auditorium, a second 250 seat theatre, a bar and restaurant, box office, foyer bar and dance studio and associated dressing rooms and toilets...

Is an upcoming development by Damac Properties, that will be located in the heart of Business Bay, Dubai. The development will be home to an impressive mix of residential units, hotel rooms, and office space. Fire safety was a priority on this project. It was used the Effisus Vapour FR System, that works as a vapour control layer, protecting the building from condensation risk and improving the airtightness and consequently the energy efficiency, and the Effisus Bonding KF+P, an innovative bonding solvent free, with exceptional properties of adhesiveness, waterproofing and UV resistance.

This leading Norwegian property company was looking to create an office environment that would be understated, comfortable and cosy. The flooring specialists PG specified the rich saturated solution dyed nylon modular carpet EC1 from Milliken's iconic Clerkenwell design collection. The product's premium Comfort Plus® cushion backing delivers exceptional acoustic performance and luxurious underfoot comfort to this beautiful workspace. Milliken's TractionBack® high friction coating has made this a healthier and sustainable, adhesive-free installation.

The crown line for the Herringbone E931 has been set out very well, however the floor has not been protected and the equipment has been left on the new floor.The actual floor will easily get damaged and the client will probably end up with a damaged floor and probably expensive repairs because of the lack of care.What should happen is that the floor should be covered at all times, and the site kept clean, with adhesive and other equipment kept off the new floor, that has been fitted

Waterproofing design is a key and critical component for successful construction of below ground structures. Whether it’s a completely new build or making smaller changes to an existing property, waterproofing design should never be overlooked.Waterproofing might account for just a small fraction of a building’s total cost, but waterproofing defects can result in catastrophic consequences. When waterproofing fails, the implications are significant.Delta’s MD, Kevin Dodds was approached to offer advice and guidance on a failed waterproofing system.The existing structure had an impressive 5-level basement which houses: kitchens, food storage and food preparation areas, spa, plant rooms and accommodation. Near to a large river, the site sited well within the water table. The original waterproofing system was based on the secant piled walls and a block wall internally to provide a basic drained protection system with drainage holes at various points to drain to various levels.Over time, the third floor had become completely saturated with all levels of the basement experiencing water ingress in varying levels from damp patches to significant “jets” of water and flows of water through the secant piles.With remediation waterproofing design strategies, it may take some time to specify a suitable system. It is important that investigations are thoroughly carried out by individuals with the capability of diagnosing the defect, assessing the extent of that defect, and recommending a suitable corrective measure.

We have collaborated with spacelab_ to bring the beauty of ESCREO writable walls at Clerkenwell in London just ahead of the 11th edition of Clerkenwell Design Week. All of you can now visit our new showroom to experience first hand the joy that our CO2 neutral whiteboard paint brings before installing it in your office, kids room, school or commercial space. According to Felix Clarke, Operations Manager of Spacelab_ Collaborative Studio, the focus of architects and interior designers is slowly but steadily shifting towards sustainable materials and spaces. So is theirs and they now look for such traits in their partners. He adds: "ESCREO shares our values and fits perfectly in our offering: a European manufacturer with a focus on specifying products which have the environmental issues in mind. (...) ESCREO’s whiteboard paints are water-based, carbon neutral and the team plants trees on behalf of their clients. This is simply amazing!”. We have been rapidly growing in the UK online space but we are also seeing the potential of the UK offline market. This is how we decided together with spacelab_ to now have a dedicated part of the depot_ where our potential clients can experience first-hand the practicality and convenience of our writable walls. They can also see how our whiteboard paints transform any surface into a world of possibilities.

We supplied and installed over 500m² of Jakob Webnet for the new build sports hall at St Dominic’s College in Harrow. The Webnet, now clad with climbing plants has created a free-standing green wall which provides shade to the building and effectively disguises it, allowing it to blend in to the surrounding grounds.

The £25 million redevelopment of the hospital includes a new emergency department. Working alongside our clients Willmott Dixon Interiors Ltd, GDL were appointed to manufacture and supply the Acoustic Louvres and the Clip-on Louvre screening as part of the 23 hour assessment and A&E refurbishment. Our acoustic Louvres are designed to attenuate medium and high frequency noise breakouts from ductwork and plant room openings and were selected for the existing plant area along Pond Street. This product can be manufactured to suit any bespoke size requirements and is available in single bank or for higher levels of attenuation, double bank.  Our Louvre screening can be located at basement, ground, mid or roof level and can be fixed in a conventional 45º angle or inverted depending on the privacy requirements of the designers and architects. We can also supply single or double leaf doors providing secure access to the screened areas. 

Job: Restoration of Norman CastleProduct: SMET NHL 5 BinderDescriptionSMET NHL 5 Binder was specially selected for the restoration works in this historic Norman Castle and Tower.  Rainey Restoration Ltd used our superior-quality pure Natural Hydraulic Lime binder SMET NHL 5 to produce a superior-quality lime mortar.SMET NHL 5 is a high-quality, pure, Natural Hydraulic Lime binder, produced under ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 management systems to EN 459-1. The eminent hydraulic strength development of SMET NHL 5 makes it suitable for producing lime mortars for masonry work, rendering, plastering base coats, and limecrete in extreme weather environments and exposed areas.  An eminently hydraulic lime binder for the production of mortars particularly suited for ecological new build, restoration, and preservation works in extreme weather environments and exposed areas. The product’s special composition allows the mortar product to breathe and also permits constant hygrometric exchange between the substrate and the environment.NHL binders, available directly in-store and online via our distribution partner Haldane Fisher, are particularly suited for ecological new builds, conservation, restoration, and preservation works. The products’ special composition allows mortars to breathe and permits constant hygrometric exchange between the substrate and the environment. This restoration is another showcase of sympathetic historic building restoration, using superior-quality NHL products available from SMET.Our restoration and preservation NHL is available from Haldane Fisher online. Superior quality combined with exceptional technical support and aftercare, are the key drivers in the selection of SMET natural conservation products.ISO 9001, 14001, and 45001 accredited Smet Building Products Ltd, demonstrating – once again – best practices in supporting Smet Supported Partners in Natural Hydraulic Lime products.

Hexagon TowerBauderflex bituminous waterproofing system SynopsisHexagon Tower is a specialist science and technology facility located in North Manchester. The roofs of the laboratories were experiencing water ingress due to poor original detailing and aged interfaces. Whilst looking to replace the failing roof, the client also wanted to upgrade the insulation to increase the U-value and improve the appearance of the rooftop using a trusted system. Bauder was selected as the supplier due to its comprehensive service offering, which includes detailed report, bespoke specification, project advice and ongoing inspections to ensure a full system guarantee can be issued.Bauder Building BoardProject:Hexagon TowerLocation:ManchesterProject Type:RefurbishmentRoof Size:6,000m²Client:IF Building Consultancy Approved Contractor:BBR RoofingThe specificationWhilst looking to replace the failing roof, the client also wanted to upgrade the insulation to increase the U-value and improve the appearance of the rooftop using a trusted system.Project challengesThe building was occupied by employees during the works with multiple trades onsite. Bauder provided a system and installation methodology, to keep disruption to a minimum for both the employees within the building and the residents of the surrounding areas. The sensitive nature of the work being carried out within the building meant that mechanical and electrical equipment could not be switched off for more than a few hours at a time.The resultElements of the existing roof surface were removed, details modified and then a Bauderflex system incorporating vapour control layer, 120mm PIR FA-TE insulation and two-layer bitumen waterproofing, with a brown finish was installed. BBR Roofing installed the system, finishing the roof area with expertly installed complex detailing around columns, windows and the area protected with a new free-standing guard rail. System installedBauderflex waterproofing system1 BauderFLEX K4ETorch applied, elastomeric bitumen capping sheet2 BauderTEC Sprint DUOSelf-adhesive bitumen underlayer3 BauderPIR FA-TEFlatboard insulation faced on both sides with aluminium foil for optimum thermal efficiency4 BauderTEC KSD FBSSelf-adhesive air and vapour control layer with mica finishAdvocacyTom Frankel, Director, IF Building Consultancy:“Thank you for making this project as seamless as possible. Your continued support has reaffirmed my position that you are the 'go to guys' for flat roofing. A job well done.”

Client: Tottenham Hotspur Football Club Design: Populous Main Contractor: Mace Main Products Used: Emshield DFR2 and Emseal Security Seal SSW2Tottenham Hotspur Football Club has moved into its new home which also has a partnership with the American NFL that will see at least two major American football games played at the stadium each season. This was made possible by the innovation of a retractable natural grass pitch, which will be used for Spurs home fixtures and an artificial multi-use surface underneath for the NFL matches, plus concerts and other events. With a seating capacity of 62,000, the Tottenham stadium is designed to ensure that the spectators are closer to the pitch than at any other comparable ground in the UK. It also includes the UK’s largest single tier stand, which will hold up to 17,000 fans in the Spurs home-end. As is typical for modern stadium design, there was a critical requirement for wide and high movement joint sealing systems in several important areas. These included joints in the plant service areas and walkways over prestige VIP and hospitality suites that also had to provide fire resistance, plus the important and often difficult heads-of-doors joints. These requirements were all safely and securely met using Emseal DFR-2 and Emseal SecuritySeal SSW2 respectively

Ilona Rose House with its unusual rose-coloured 3D printed façade is a new-build, mixed-use project spread over 13 floors, including a 4 storey, basement with a quarter natural light. It has transformed the former site of the famous Foyles bookshop on Charing Cross Road, boasting outstanding new shops and restaurants, along with new pedestrian walkways, public realm and roof terraces.The unique building has been designed by MATT Architecture for main contractors Sir Robert McAlpine and offers 150,000 sq ft of office space, 20,000 sq ft of retail fronting on Charing Cross Road and a brand-new public courtyard with 15,000 sq ft of restaurant and bar space.The upper floors comprising of offices exploit the stepped massing of the building to create over 12,000 sq ft of planted external terraces for the benefit of the occupiers and to enhance the environment.The south-west facing terraces, nicknamed ‘the hanging gardens of Soho’ will provide external amenity space for every single level of office. It is here that Radmat’s waterproofing and insulation products were chosen for their tried and trusted properties. PermaQuik Hot Melt Bitumen Waterproofing System was used on 95% of the roof areas, multiple roof terraces, Greek Street Tunnel and James’ Courtyard.