"channels gullies and gratings"

The ProblemCyclists and staff at London stations were frustrated by poor quality infrastructure for bikes, leading to congestion, theft and damage to cycles.The SolutionThree busy London rail hubs, Waterloo, Marylebone and London Bridge, chose Streetsure ‘Double Decker’ parking to solve the problem. At London Waterloo Station, Streetsure provided 322 new cycle spaces increasing the number of spaces from 212 to 534. We delivered the complete Streetsure package to Network Rail quickly and efficiently, providing the rail giants with an in-depth site proposal and installation of the Double Decker System. The BenefitsThe quality of the Double Decker System has provided commuters and their bikes with an easy to use, secure and protective system that has helped encourage cycling in the capital. No more messy cycle parking areas with channels to support the bike in an upright position No more damaged bikes with our well-spaced parking positions and anti-scratch guards No more fears about security with our high-security brace frame

Based at Manchester’s waterfront in Salford Quays, MediaCityUK Studio Block is the largest media development in the UK and will become centre for the world’s leading creative and digital businesses. The BBC is one of mediacity:uk’s anchor tenants and from 2011 it will be home to five BBC departments including two TV channels and two radio stations; three of them are Radio Five Live, BBC Sport and CBeebies.Many of the studios in the main Studio Block have Stravifloor Jackup jack-up concrete slabs to optimise the sound insulation between noise producing and noise sensitive spaces. These floating floors in combination with the structure of the studios being isolated off Stravibase SEB simple elastomer bearings delivering high performance box-in-box constructions.The TV studios built off the upper floors were built using a heavily damped concrete construction supported at 600mm centres using Stravifloor Deck isolation rails. In these studios the structure of the studios was built off the floating floors to create the box-in-box whilst providing very stable conditions for the TV cameras.

With the success of Media City, Manchester has now become the Media Centre of the UK and the best place to study for a job in TV, Film and Radio.Manchester Metropolitan University has built a brand new Media Facility with industry standard studios to allow them to teach students in the highest quality spaces.Our local branch was employed to design, supply and install the concrete floating floors for 12 studios.The 100 mm thick concrete floating floors supported the drylining walls and ceilings to create box-in-box constructions with very high standards of sound insulation.The 50 mm void beneath the 100 mm concrete floating floors was created using Stravifloor Channel isolation rails and the voids were vented to avoid the trapped air layer reducing the isolation performance.Most of the studios were supported off stiff structural slabs with a natural frequency of >10Hz and the specification for the bearings was given as <8Hz.One of the studios, however, was supported off a supporting slab with a natural frequency of 6Hz and the specification for the bearings was changed to 12Hz in this studio to avoid structural vibration amplification.

The Royal National Lifeboat Institution is the largest charity that saves lives at sea around the coasts of the United Kingdom, the Republic of Ireland, the Channel Islands, and the Isle of Man, as well as on some inland waterways.Pwllheli Lifeboat Station was first established by the (RNLI) in 1891 at a cost of £480. The station currently operates a Shannon-class all-weather lifeboat and a D-class (IB1) lifeboat. A new station was completed in 2020 to accommodate the latest Shannon-class all-weather lifeboat.Dortek supplied a Spacelite HT60 to the main boat entrance and Sectiolite ST40 and Spacelite HT40 to the other entrances. Both door systems are made of translucent fibreglass and are characterized by their low wear design which purposely avoids protruding hinges, helix cables or springs susceptible to faults, and thus reduces maintenance work.The Butzbach SPACELITE stacking doors are space-saving and extremely wear-resistant. When opening each door element lines up vertically and compactly one behind the other. Thanks to this mechanism, SPACELITE stacking doors are suitable for almost all installation situations – both in new buildings and for renovations.

A range of Ultima aluminium insulated panels incorporating an eye catching perforated outer skin have been specified on the new Reflector residential development at Chambers Wharf in The Southwark district of London. Designed by Simpson Haugh Architecture the properties featured over 1500 sq metres of Ultima aluminium insulated panels glazed in to the structural glazed system across multiple buildings on the development. Each of the panels were finished in a distinctive Basalt Grey PPC colour, that featured a unique perforated outer skin which stood proud of the glazed in panel. These were fitted via a toggle system together with an internal channel surround that added to the distinctive appearance of the building. Ultima aluminium insulated panels are a highly versatile façade panel that can be adapted to fit a variety of external applications. Available in sizes up to and including 6000mm x 2000mm, Ultima panels are fire tested to BS476, provide excellent thermal performance and are supplied with A1 non-combustible insulation materials. They are available in a wide range of high grade anodised colours and PPC finishes.

Long house is a modern interpretation of a Derbyshire Dales longhouse and houses three generations of their respective families. It was built to Passivhaus standards and to have minimal visual impact on its rural surroundings and featured in a September episode of Channel 4’s Grand Designs. On the ground floor, a combination of floor-to-ceiling windows and a completely open-plan layout fills the house with sunlight and creates a feeling of space and tranquillity. A shared sitting room for Sarah and Mike’s mothers is known as the ‘lady chapel’ and its oversized windows provide spectacular views across the valley.Energy efficiency, thermal performance and sustainability are all key when building to Passivhaus standards. The couple were also keen to meet the Royal Institute of British Architects 2030 Challenge targets for operational energy use, water usage and embodied carbon. Durability and security were also priorities.‘The windows are the stars of the show. The whole house feels full of light and life. The views are spectacular and in every room we feel part of the landscape, but without having to put a jumper on!’

Transforming your child's school environment is truly amazing! Imagine a place where learning and play come together, where education expands beyond the classroom walls into inviting open spaces. We, alongside our partners, strive to bring this vision to life.Creating safe and modern school environmentsEnvision your child in a modernized school setting designed not only for learning but also for inspiring play. Picture them exploring, engaging, and growing in this enriched environment.This primary school reconstruction project in Slovenia was led by our local channel partner, Igras Igrala. It is a testament to our successful track record in creating high-quality, safe spaces for children. Our philosophy revolves around crafting modern school environments that promote well-being through inclusive and inspiring play experiences.We are fully committed to working collaboratively to turn this vision into reality because we firmly believe that every child deserves an exceptional place to learn and play. Let's come together and shape tomorrow's learning environments today!

Nestled in the natural beauty of northern Athens, “Adventure Farm Forest” is an inspiring outdoor playground that beckons families from all corners to come together and have fun!Themed playground in Athens, GreeceDesigned with a harmonious blend between nature's wonderland and creative play activities, it will surely excite imaginations while thrilling your little adventurers. Its centerpiece attraction – Polka - draws many children seeking thrills amidst elastic tiles covering its entire area. For younger kids, there are multiple interactive games such as Mole's Wood adventure or Little House for infants plus several benches for tired parents waiting nearby. A refreshing marble fountain supplies cool water under sunny Grecian skies topped off by a cozy municipal coffee shop only steps away when you need refueling after long hours of family bonding moments within this special place - truly a one-of-a-kind spot in Greece!The project was executed by our local channel partner Intec S.A. in 2012.

Falco is pleased to announce another installation of the UK’s only automated cycle wheeling ramp, for 20 Ropemaker Street, located within the heart of the city. The new automatic cycle wheel ramps have been installed by Falco as part of a £240m state-of-the-art development bringing a new commercial building of more than 450,000ft² of Grade A, BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ office space and premium retail provision to a prominent corner site just north of Moorgate Station.The automated bike wheeling ramp known as the ‘VeloComfort®’ is a huge innovation and Falco is once again delighted to bring what is standard Dutch cycling technology to the UK market. These wheeling ramps provide cyclists with the next generation of accessibility and are designed to assist users with manoeuvring their bikes up and down stairs with virtually no effort.This is particularly important where a bike is either heavy or perhaps has a basket or panniers and makes carrying a bike up stairs or even using a traditional wheeling ramp difficult. The VeloComfort® range comes in two patented innovative designs, one for manoeuvring bicycles up the stairs - VeloComfortUp®, and one for down - VeloComfortDown®!Falco supplied and installed 22m of both VeloComfortUp® and VeloComfortDown® designed to meet the client’s exact stair dimensions.The VeloComfortUp® is essentially a mini ‘travellator’ or conveyor belt which starts once the integrated sensors detect a bike and automatically stops if the conveyor is completely free of bicycles. The high quality conveyor (kevlar-based) belt runs in a durable, low-maintenance aluminium double-sided channel and is powered by an electric motor. The entrance and exit of the conveyor are aesthetically, functionally and safely integrated into the system, with the electric motor positioned on the side of the conveyor belt.The VeloComfortDown® is a simple and effective non-electric cycle / bike wheeling ramp designed with a gutter brush to reduce the speed of the bike. The gutter brush is made from a high quality, durable and low-maintenance aluminium double-sided channel, which is equipped with brush strip on both sides. The friction of the gutter brush ensures that the bike slows down, allowing the user to determine his/her own pace during the descent.Falco provide complete supply and installation of the VeloComfort® cycle wheeling ramps as well as free rendering graphics to help the client to visualise the scheme, free UK-wide site surveys and free CAD design and schematics.A video demonstrating the VeloComfort® Bike Wheeling Ramp can be viewed by clicking here.For more information about the innovative VeloComfort® Bike Wheeling Ramp, please contact our helpful sales team on 01538 380080.

This case study explores the construction process of a soundproof home theatre, designed to provide an immersive audio and visual experience while minimizing sound leakage. By implementing a combination of construction techniques and acoustic materials, the goal was to create an environment that offers optimal sound isolation and absorption, ensuring an exceptional cinematic experience for the homeowners.Building a Wooden Frame on a Concrete Base:To establish a sturdy foundation, a wooden frame was constructed on top of a concrete base. This frame served as the structural support for the subsequent soundproofing components.Installing Acoustic Mineral Wool:Acoustic mineral wool, known for its excellent sound absorption properties, was inserted into all the joists, floors, walls, and ceilings. This step helped to minimize sound transmission through these surfaces, preventing sound leakage and echoes, essential for a soundproof home theatre.Creating Soundproof Speaker Boxes:Soundproof speaker boxes were constructed using acoustic plasterboard and Tecsound viscoelastic membrane. These materials were chosen for their ability to reduce vibration and sound transmission, resulting in clearer and more accurate audio reproduction.Installing MuteClip and Channel Sound Isolation Clips:To further enhance sound isolation, MuteClip and channel sound isolation clips were installed on the walls and ceilings. These clips effectively decoupled the surfaces from the underlying structure, preventing sound vibrations from traveling through the building’s framework.Installing Double Layers of Acoustic Plasterboard:Double layers of acoustic plasterboard were installed, with a layer of viscoelastic membrane sandwiched in between. This construction technique helps to create an additional barrier against sound transmission, improving overall soundproofing performance.Installing Double Layers of Acoustic Plasterboard:After completing the soundproofing components, the necessary audiovisual equipment was installed. This included lights, speakers, a projector, and a screen, strategically positioned to optimize audio and visual immersion within the theatre space.Installing Acoustic Absorption Panels:To achieve optimal sound quality, acoustic absorption panels were installed on the walls. These panels were carefully placed to reduce sound reflections and enhance the soundproof home theatre’s acoustics. To maintain a cohesive aesthetic, the panels were wrapped in black fabric to blend seamlessly with the theatre’s decor.ConclusionThe construction of a soundproof home theatre involves a systematic approach, utilizing various soundproofing materials and techniques. By following the steps outlined in this case study, homeowners can create a dedicated space that delivers exceptional sound isolation, immersive audiovisual experiences, and optimal viewing pleasure, transforming their home into a soundproof home theatre haven.

St Pancras StationProject briefLimelite Heritage Mortars and Grouts to help restore St Pancras station buildings to their Victorian splendour.The ProjectMortars and Grouts from Tarmac Building Products, the leading manufacturer of blended cementitious products in the UK, have been extensively used in the historic conservation of St Pancras station.The major redevelopment of St Pancras includes the enlargement and refurbishment of the ticket hall, restoration of St Pancras Chambers as well as new passages to the existing Tube ticket Hall and Channel Tunnel Rail Link. PAYE Stonework and Restoration, a leading conservation specialist turned to Pozament for its expertise in pre-blended products formulated specifically for historic conservation work.A hydraulic lime-based combination of materials that offers sympathetic controlled strength was blended by the team to meet the specific requirements of PAYE Stonework and Restoration.Help from Tarmac Building Products – Limelite Heritage Mortars & GroutsAround eight tonnes of lime based, cement-free materials including Heritage Mortar 4 and Heritage Grout 7 were supplied to point the brickwork joints of passages to the existing tube ticket hall and Channel Tunnel Rail Link and to repair sofits in the Grade I listed St Pancras Chambers.Problems facedSt. Pancras Station is a Grade I listed building, meaning it is a building of exceptional interest and is one of the best Victorian buildings in central London. It has been voted one of London’s favourite landmarks and so great care had to be taken with the restoration work.OutcomesThe extensive redevelopment of St Pancras and Kings Cross Underground was completed by the end of 2007.  QuotesGary Hodges, project manager, PAYE Stonework and Restoration said, the range of pre-blended heritage grouts and mortars were ideal for this restoration project. Heritage Mortar 4 was highly suitable for the St Pancras Chambers repairs, reaching maximum strength within 7 days rather than the usual 90 days for other materials.Stuart Allerton, Quality & Technical Services Manager, Tarmac Building Products said, The Limelite Heritage range has specifically been designed to be sympathetic with historic buildings and caters for a number of applications. Our re-pointing mortars and free-flowing grouts are manufactured at our Swadlincote facility in Derbyshire to order, typically within five working days.·      Location: London·      Product: Limelite Heritage Mortars and Grouts·      Timescale: Completed in 2007

Places for People, a group of more than 20 housing providers, developers, property managers and care providers, and known for their full-spectrum approach of placemaking, called upon CDM Stravitec to isolate a gym in one of their latest commercial property developments.Like many other contemporary office buildings, Places for People’s latest project houses a gym. People working in the building can make use of this popular amenity before or after work or during their lunch-break. In order not to disturb those working in the surrounding spaces, the gym needed to be acoustically isolated from the rest of the building structure.A tailored Stravigym XP gym floating floor was installed to acoustically decouple the gym located on the 5th floor of the office building, preventing vibrations from fitness equipment such as falling dumbells, kettlebells, and treadmills from disturbing the people working above and adjacent. The added dBooster® strips increase the system’s performance even further, by decoupling the load distribution layer from the resilient supports.To achieve the finished floor height specified by the architect and to deal with any irregularities of the structural floor, timber chims were placed underneath the dBooster® channels.

Hammerson House will be a world-class, 116-bed residential centre for the elderly Jewish Community in Hampstead. Newton Specialist Contractor Cast Contracting Ltd (CCL) were approached during the planning stages to develop a comprehensive waterproofing solution for the extensive basement.CCL recommended the installation of a Newton CDM water management system to comprehensively waterproof the extensive basement. First, they employed the 8mm Newton 508 membrane to the concrete retaining walls of the basement. The 50mm thick Fibran XPS 500-C insulation was then installed beneath more 508 membrane across the entire concrete slab. Additionally, Basedrain drainage channel was installed around the perimeter, including inspection ports to provide a fully maintainable system.This entire system is served by a series of complete sump and pump systems, each consisting of primary and backup NP400 pumps, high water level alarms, and battery backup systems. These are all controlled by Newton’s advanced Control Panel-Pro to ensure a failsafe system, even during a power outage.Finally, Newton’s 107F cementitious waterproof membrane was spray applied to the concrete upstands of the lightwells and lift pits in order to complete the continuous watertight solution.

A safety railing on the River Thames. London’s longest pier, Royal Wharf includes a 162m² viewing platform for unparalleled views along the River Thames, now surrounded by a glass balustrade safety railing. Like many river-side locations, the view is spectacular and is preserved for the enjoyment of those walking by. The glass balustrade keeps the views in tact while also providing a safety barrier and windbreak along the length of the pier. The Royal Wharf Pier opened in 2019, after a refurbishment, and now provides quick transport to and from central London by water taxi. The use of MEGAgrip keeps the view of the River Thames while providing the necessary safety feature on the pier. MEGAgrip is Pure Vista’s answer to a heavy-duty and fully adjustable balustrade system. The internal glass clamps allow for easy alignment of the glass within the channel, making this one of the most easily adjustable systems available. MEGAgrip is ideal to be used as a public space barrier in busy locations such as transport hubs or venues. A benefit to this product is that it can be upgraded, with the use of a converter kit, to become bomb-resistant. For this project, MEGAgrip provides the most suitable safety railing on the River Thames.

Equinox is a large USA gymnasium operator and their first venture in London is in High Street Kensington. The site they chose is on the 5th floor, directly above Sony Music where Simon Cowell works, and directly beneath Kensington Roof Gardens, which is a popular and very trendy night spot.Ramboll Acoustics specified that a floating floor was required to reduce impact noise levels from the gym to <55dB L’nT,w. However it soon became clear that the floating floor would have to ensure that no significant disturbance was caused to Sony Music directly beneath.Our local branch worked closely with the contractor and consultants to fine-tune the floating floor system and built several mock-ups to verify the performance.The final design consisted of a Stravifloor Channel isolation rail supporting a composite dry floor construction. The floor under Group Fitness, where all of the gym classes are held, also had layers of steel plate to optimise the low frequency performance.The on-site performance at the end of the job was measured as 35dB L’nT,w although this was dominated by background noise as the performance of the floating floor was so good. The improvement from the base concrete floor was 42dB.

The design of this bathroom needed to reflect the client’s colourful, modern and eclectic aesthetic, whilst still allowing for a tranquil, restorative space in which to batheHandmade Moroccan concrete tiles by Popham Design in a soft green shade feel serene and natural, but also inject a pop of colour. Elsewhere in the room, design is kept minimal, modern and almost industrial in its simplicity, with a neutral colour palette and brushed nickel tapware. To visually expand the space, the layout of this bathroom was re-designed to make the room feel elongated, and draw the eye in. To complement this, the Moroccan tiles line the floor and furthest wall behind the wet room and back-to-wall Eldon bath.Of the design, designer and stylist Edwina Boase said: “The Eldon bath was perfect for this bathroom; its elegant, modern shape was echoed in the patterned tiles, lighting and tapware. The Eldon design is impactful yet economic with regards to the floor space required, which is preciously what was required for this project!”This house in its entirety was recently unveiled on Channel 4’s home renovation series ‘Ugly House to Lovely House with George Clarke’.Photography: Amazing Productions / Daniela ExleyArchitecture: Chris Dyson ArchitectsDesign: Edwina Boase

Alicante Port, the well renowned commercial and cruise ship terminal has been upgraded to benefit from a Gatic Slotdrain high-capacity surface water drainage system.Slotdrain UltraSlot was specified during the re-conditioning of Dock 19 to increase capacity from 300,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEU) to 463,000 TEU.“UltraSlot was chosen by specifier SETI, SA, who are well established within the ports sector and who have worked with Gatic products for many years,” said International Sales Manager – Luis Triguero “The engineer in charge was familiar with the mechanical and hydraulic advantages of UltraSlot and requested a competitive price for the project. As Gatic is so well established in the Spanish market, we could exceed their expectations.”UltraSlot is used in external concrete areas which are subject to constant traffic, such as airports and ports. This high-capacity system is designed to ensure sufficient depth of concrete cover over the main body of the channel to withstand ultra-heavy-duty loads of up to F900 - 90 tonnes.“The biggest challenge we faced was ensuring the system could withstand the consistent, heavy traffic that will always be moving throughout the port,” continues Luis. “However, thanks to its capacity to bear heavy loads, UltraSlot proved to be one of the best drainage options on the market.”

We were recently approached by Lanark Golf Club to help with creating a playable pathway directly in front of the 18th green.The existing pathway, which was finished with a rubber topped concrete tile, was causing several problems. Shots were regularly landing directly on the path and the impact was too severe causing the ball often to bounce unfairly through the green. Also the smooth surface on the existing tiles was causing balls to run excessively to the left of the green following the natural slope of the path. Lastly the existing path was not particularly suitable to play shots off or to run balls across.We worked together to identify the 45mm thick Grassflex Play tiles as a suitable replacement. Testing indicated that the impact of the ball landing directly on the tile was far more comparable to turf than the previous solution, this was due to a combination of natural compression offered by the 45mm thick rubber and the drainage channels underside offering further absorption through the air pockets created. The top surface of the Grassflex Play tile also improved the absorption as well as providing a suitable surface to play a chip shot from and to roll a ball across, the grain of the grass also removed the issue of the ball running excessively to the left.Feedback on the job has been very positive and most importantly it looks good!

The Project  A new Primary School built as part of the school’s framework agreement with Milton Keynes.  Two storey portal frame build.Jestico & Whiles Architects The Challenge Produce a system suitable for use in an open space.Open plan arrangement of Cubicles and Solid Surface Vanities located directly off the corridor.Ensure safety of the user and create an anti-bulling, completely visible space. The Solution Excelsior Skyline Cubicle Range, a full height system with overhead panel. This extremely popular range is an ideal choice for school environments meeting the demands of modern education and providing complete privacy and comfort to the user.Full height cubicle systems have increased in popularity over the past few years. Skyline Range enables Schools, Colleges and the like to ensure both safety and anti-bulling objectives are met and Excelsior’s rise and fall hinge paired with the bespoke door design enables lift off access in the event of an emergency.Skyline range is an extremely durable system and comes as standard with a ‘P’ section headrail, ‘U’ channel base rail and over-panel providing maximum stability. Optional bolt through fixings are available and recommended.The successful open plan arrangement of cubicles and solid surface vanities in Orange and Pomme Verte is in keeping with the modern vibrant atmosphere of the school.

GCB (Guan Chong Berhad) Cocoa UK Limited is a new chocolate factory that opened in Glemsford in 2023. GCB Cocoa was established in Asia when it started trading cocoa beans in the 1980s. The new chocolate factory produces liquid and solid chocolates. The site of the factory is 17-acre which will include new access, car parking, manufacturing facilities, warehousing, and biomass container to supply renewable energy for the manufacturing procedure.Our team Helmsman manufactured, delivered, and installed 14 bespoke cubicles as the clients requested floor-to-ceiling ‘Inline’ changing cubicles, with the measurements to be 2817mm high, 950 wide, and with the door opening at 1950mm. Additionally, they have 14 benches within the changing cubicles that are 900mm wide and 300mm depth.The Inline cubicles were requested to be 'Designer White', which we were supplied by Greenlam. 'Designer White' is a simple colour that stands out. The Cubicle head rail and channel were powder coated in White Aluminium to outline the cubicles.Inside the cubicles, the benches are plasticated in silver grey with slats in 'Arctic White'. These materials are designed to withstand a wet environment so are perfect for changing rooms at GCB Cocoa.Get in touch today if you have a similar project, or want any more information on the products mentioned, give us a call at 01284 530 427.

Gerico France designs, manufactures and installs bulk solid storage and handling equipment. It offers bucket elevators, conveyors, pipes, silos, warehouses, milling machines, feed producing equipment, heat treatment devices, and accessories.Project/doors: 21 Speedor Storm High Speed DoorsThe challenge Gerico France delivered a turn-key flour mill project in Mombasa, Kenya for a Grain milling company at their state of the art milling plant. They required a solution to stop dust going out of the building instead of being aspirated by the installed system when emptying grain trucks into the wheat grain intake pit.The solutionHart installed three Speedor Storm doors from 4m wide x 5m high to 7m high. The Speedor Storm is the next generation of large external door which has improved wind resistance on both sides of the door and is suitable for larger openings, greater than 6m. This door does not require separate wind bars as the curtain contains wind bracing every 1m and is held securely into the guide channels with rollers at either side. The success Hart Doors sent an experienced engineer to Mombasa to supervise and assist in the installation and commissioning of the doors along with the training of staff to install future orders. 18 more Speedor Storms were ordered for a specialised dry bulk discharge and handling terminal for grain imports, located in Shimanzi, Mombasa.

Most commonly, we undertake domestic dwarf balcony projects as retrofits on older buildings, which were built to meet lower balustrade height regulations than we have on new buildings today.The extra height provided by a glass balustrade gives the user added protection from the wind as well as providing a more comprehensive safety feature. In this domestic dwarf balcony installation in Devon however, the architect opted for a dwarf balcony from the outset because it created a useful balance between the feeling of security that the homeowners who had young children desired, whilst maintaining the most important aspect of the view, which is eye level as you sit on the balcony looking out.Pure Vista proposed using SPIG-LITEpro for this installation.SPIG-LITEpro is a domestic appropriate product that achieves up to 0.74kN in line with building regulations for a single use domestic property. One of the benefits of using SPIG-LITEpro as a dwarf balcony solution, is that it is spigot-based rather than channel-based, meaning that the balustrade system doesn’t encroach on the view – a significant consideration when the glass is only partial-height. The SPIG-LITEpro system is highly aesthetically pleasing, looking stunning alongside both contemporary and traditional architecture. The installation itself was taken care of by Camel Glass who are specialist architectural glass installers, also based in Cornwall. 

Sash Window Renovation and casement window renovation on an Imposing Georgian HouseMrs Shepherd had recently bought a beautiful Georgian house, undeterred by the fact that all of its windows were in poor condition. So following a recommendation Mrs Shepherd called in the period window specialists, Ventrolla, to complete the window renovation.Completing the works in three phases, we installed our unique Sash Removal System, made repairs to window sills and crafted new double-glazed sash windows and casement windows, which were all fitted with the Ventrolla Perimeter Sealing System. Mrs Shepherd said:“The reason I chose Ventrolla was I knew that they were sash window renovation specialists.”“[They were] So professional! I’m so pleased with the whole job. Every one of the windows looks amazing, fits perfectly and is completely draught free.”“Thank you Ventrolla, I would recommend you unreservedly.”Mrs Shepherd kindly offered to appear in our video, describing her experience with Ventrolla, you can find it on our website or YouTube channel.We have over 40 years' experience with timber window renovations and repairs. If you have any queries or would like to speak to a member of our team please get in touch on 0800 0277 454.

Considering the large size of the basement area and its proximity to the River Thames, Newton Specialist Contractor Stonehouse were called in to provide a complete waterproofing system for the structure.At this private property in South London, the plan was to build a new basement extending below the entire footprint of the house and into the rear garden, incorporating a swimming pool, recreational spaces and wine cellar.However, considering the close proximity to the River Thames and the high water table, Newton Specialist Contractor Stonehouse were called in to provide a complete waterproofing system for the entire structure.Considering the size of the basement area, the high water table, the geographical location close to the River Thames, and the fact that the structure was created using underpinning, the risk of water penetration in this basement was extremely high. Stonehouse recommended the most failsafe solution, the Newton CDM System.Firstly, they installed Newton 508 membrane to all internal walls and the floor, using Newton's ancillary products to fix the membrane securely and seal the system. Drainage channels were also created using Newton Basedrain, feeding into a sump chamber containing two NP750 pumps, a higher capacity model capable of dealing with large volumes of water.Finally, where the basement extended beyond the house's footprint, a liquid waterproofing membrane was used on the new external roof.Stonehouse is one of Newton's oldest and most experienced specialist contractors, and they showed their expertise here by delivering a dry, safe basement for the client that could then be transformed into a beautiful new part of their home. Furthermore, the installation was backed by Stonehouse's 10-year guarantee, for complete peace of mind.

When it comes to residential, commercial or any structure below ground, waterproofing is a critical component within the construction process for protecting and preserving a building. A poorly designed or installed waterproofing solution can fail leading to significant implications on the structure itself.Delta Registered Installers, Abtech (UK) Ltd were called upon to give assistance on a particularly technically complicated project where approaches to waterproofing design and installation had been incorporated, however the system had failed. For a great remedial waterproofing outcome, seek assistance from an experienced waterproofing company to inspect your site and carry out the remedial work.The property when built had a Type C, cavity drain membrane systems incorporated (not a Delta System), however there was no basement drainage incorporated into the design to manage water ingress.In principle a Type C, drainage system is a water management system. The Type C system is used to control water ingress once it has penetrated the structure.  Moisture or running water travel behind the Type C membrane within a controlled drainage system. A Type C System isn’t classified as a barrier but provides protection by means of water management. For a Type System to be successful a suitable drainage system is required to collect and discharge water ingress to a suitable and safe evacuation point (either by natural forces or a mechanical pump system).When correctly installed, groundwater drainage channels effectively relieve hydrostatic water pressure in the below ground structure. They are installed below flooring membranes at the floor/wall junction.

A stunning installation of the SPIG-LITEadvanced in Cornwall.If you own a home by the Cornish sea you don’t want to miss out on any of the view. This home, high above the water boasts enormous panoramic sea views. Cornwall is known for its quick changing weather, and high winds could be a downside to this location. However, there is an easy solution! A frameless glass balustrade. SPIG-LITEadvanced can support glass up to 1100mm high. Creating an elegant and stylish windbreak to protect furniture and people on the balcony. Without a channel being used, more of the view can be enjoyed. For this installation, the spigots are placed below eye-level when you’re on the balcony but can be seen from other angles around the property. The SPIG-LITEadvanced is easier to install and transport to and from any site. The lightweight and compact product can fit into smaller vans to fit through those country winding lanes. For our installers, there are many advantages to this product; the easy installation, adjustment, product weight and outstanding test results. SPIG-LITEadvanced can be spaced 500mm apart, enabling just 2 spigots per 1000mm piece of glass. Free water drainage is also a big benefit to this product, rain and water can flow beneath the glass, reducing the chance of water ingress and making this product perfect to use around swimming pools or other wet areas. If you’re interested in reading about the SPIG-LITEadvanced head over to the product page. 

System Used - TerraSmart pedestal IGNOThe Botanist is a botanical cocktail bar in the heart of Newcastle. Complete with a rooftop terrace bar, it entices revellers and partygoers with a welcoming and curated look. The natural materials of the terrace bar, mixed with the abundance of plants and natural light, transport customers to a chic, far-off watering hole. To complement and contrast the natural materials in the industrial setting, the bare materials, exposed brick, and stone effect tiles give a suggestive canvas to the biophilic decor. The design function of the terrace is as a high foot traffic area for social meetings. To fully support the paved area in these situations, we have seen a rise in users looking for simple pedestal systems that still provide a robust substructure at an economical rate. The pedestals have a wide base acting as a stable foundation and spacer tabs that equally space the pavers apart to create drainage channels.Sasso porcelain tiles could support the primary use of the space due to their inherent properties. These porcelain paving tiles are naturally non-porous, protecting the finish from staining. This non-porous property also makes the tiles resistant to bitumen and algae. The tile also features a low slip potential in both; wet and dry conditions. Having these properties within a hospitality environment can help make a safe and long-lasting flooring surface.TerraSmart Pedestal IGNO fits into this industrial, chic environment with its simple, robust pedestal structure and hard-wearing but stylish flooring finish, punctuating the space and tying the terrace together. 

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.”

The Host Helix building, also known as the “Helter-Skelter,” was a unique and striking structure built in 2011 with stunning views of North London and Wembley Stadium. Over time, the building experienced general wear and tear and water began to enter the buildings’ complex structure.Polyroof Products were called in to consult with the clients and offer a seamless, encapsulated solution that could address the many unusual details associated with the building’s design.The SolutionA full survey of the roof terrace areas was conducted by the Polyroof Technical Services, after which a bespoke specification was produced for the works. The proposal document detailed a comprehensive set of recommendations for producing a seamless solution to encapsulate the problematic roof, therefore solving the issues that had arisen over the years due to its condition and age, as well as the issues associated with the original design of the pitched, curved roof.Polyroof SA Carrier Layer was then applied over the cement particle boards with Polyroof pre-formed GRP Drip Trims fixed to the external edge. For continuity and to create a uniform finish, the SA Carrier Layer was extended onto the main roof sections as a substrate for the Protec system.Any details requiring local reinforcement were treated with Protec Resin and 75mm wide Polymat 450. The curing process was allowed to take place. To accommodate structural expansion / contraction movements at appropriate details, 25mm disbondment tape was installed prior to local reinforcements.The first coat of Protec Resin and Polymat 450 was applied at a minimum coverage rate of 1.3 – 1.5Litres/m² (0.66 – 0.77m²/Litre) and was allowed to cure. To complete the system, a second coat of Protec Resin was applied at a minimum coverage rate of 0.5Litres/m² (2.0m²/Litre) and was allowed to cure.ComplexitySuch an iconic building in the local community, the client wanted to protect the original aspects of the building to the fullest extent, so the Protec system installed at the perimeter was color-matched to the original blue and grey colours. This was achieved by blending pigments until they matched the desired colors, in turn the pigment was then blended into the Protec resin before application. The survey revealed concerns about the original building designs from 2011 and the roof’s drainage system. Due to the roof’s pitch, rainwater was cascading down the curved slopes at high velocity and causing water to bounce into the building under the original capping.After many discussions between the main contractor and Polyroof, as well as the provider of the external cladding, it was agreed that the perimeter detail needed to be encapsulated with the new waterproofing system to prevent further water ingress. Fire-retardant cement particle boards were fixed to the internal and top faces of the external parapet walls, and the Polyroof SA Carrier Layer was applied over them with Polyroof pre-formed GRP Drip Trims fixed to the external edge.The Protec System was then applied to encapsulate the entire parapet detail, meaning its waterproof integrity would be covered under the Polyroof Guarantee. The curvature of the building added complexity to this process, and the contractor took great care in cutting the trims to size and fixing them to the external edge to ensure they followed the profile of the structure. Due to the building’s height, all the trims were face-fixed to prevent wind uplift.WorkmanshipIn order to improve drainage and prevent water from accumulating in hotspot areas of the roof, the contractors were instructed to install new internal curved gutter channels at the point where the roof and building met. These channels were designed to have a sufficient height and angle to effectively direct rainwater towards the outlets, preventing water from pooling on the roof. However, the installation process was made more complex due to the curved nature of the building’s architecture, which required careful measurement and customization of the gutter channels to fit the unique shape of the building.Additionally, the contractors had to consider the many joins of the gutters and how they would hold up to the elements over time as the building structure expands, contracts and moves. Extra steps were taken to ensure the gutters liquid membrane was properly sealed and secured to prevent leaks.The contractors were instructed to repair all protrusion and mansafe post details as necessary in order to allow the Protec System to be installed to a minimum height of 150mm, and to terminate it underneath a suitable weathering flange or jubilee clip. In addition, all right angles were to be reinforced with double taping. Any protrusions that were liable to significant movement was required to have disbondment i.e., bond break, tape applied to it to stop the external coating from stressing on expansion. Furthermore, all pipes were to be abraded, solvent wiped, and where necessary, primed in accordance with the Polyroof coatings manual. A flashing detail was also to be created with a weathering flange or seal.All outlets were inspected to ensure that they were functioning properly. Any outlets that were deemed unsuitable were replaced with new ones. The outlets were cleaned, prepared, and primed as necessary. The Protec system was then dressed into the outlets as far as was practical. The inspection and replacement of the outlets and the preparation of the Protec system helped to ensure that the drainage system functioned effectively.ConclusionThe refurbishment of the roof was completed within the client’s target timeframe and budget. Following a final inspection by Polyroof Technical Services, which highlighted quality workmanship of Tower Asphalt Ltd, the client received Polyroof’s trusted Accredited System Guarantee and now has the peace of mind the roof will be leak-free for decades to come.

When Brexit terms were finally decided in 2020, the end to the freedom and movement of EU goods was agreed to begin from the 1st January 2021. HMRC therefore required an Inland Border Facility to be urgently mobilised to perform the new series of checks required on HGVs crossing the UK Border at the Port of Dover and the Channel Tunnel. This site acts as a location for checking movements of goods inbound (Defra and HMRC) and outbound (HMRC only).Each location is to include parking areas for HGVs and other vehicles, with security measures and facilities to enable the checking of vehicles and goods entering and exiting the sites. There are also temporary office buildings, staff and driver welfare amenities.The design of the facility onto 48ha of former agricultural land was developed with a view to maintaining the landscape and biodiversity of the surrounding area and to screen views of the site from the local villages.Excavated materials were sustainably reused as part of this process in order to create bunds, whilst surface water drainage of the site is directed to local wildlife ponds and wetlands via 30,000 square metres of aggregate filled Truckcell cellular paving.The site is trafficked by up to 950 HGVs at any one time and provides a free-draining, sustainable and durable SuDS surface to withstand the traffic levels without damage or abrasion.Throughout the project, ABG’s in house technical team provided design guidance and site installation support for the customer. Truckcell is a heavy duty cellular paving system manufactured from 100% recycled and recyclable plastic, capable of sustaining frequent HGV loads up to GVW 60 and 10 tonne wheels loads. It can be filled with angular gravel (as was the case on this project) or topsoil and grass seeded, according to the application.

Hush Acoustics provided a range of acoustic products for the construction of Warren Court, a new development of 9x luxury two bedroom apartments. Working with Marlowe Building Contractors, we provided advice and materials for the apartments’ soundproofing to give acoustic performance better than New Build standard.The Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) energy ratings had already been calculated and passed before Hush were involved with the acoustic design. The building’s structure consisted of lightweight masonry walls and a timber joist floor structure, which could not be changed due to SAP compliance. As a result, Hush was tasked with developing a comprehensive design to ensure compliance to Approved Document E of the Building Regulations with this form of construction detail. The biggest issue was the continuous lightweight block walls that may be thermally very efficient, but present major difficulties acoustically. To go over and above the new build standard, it was necessary for all blockwork and timber floor joists to be isolated on Hush Resilient Seating. Ceilings were also isolated by using Hush Suspended Ceilings in the main and an Enhanced Clip and Channel System was used where the floor/ceiling heights were at a premium. Hush Panel 28 was provided throughout as the floating acoustic flooring system.We carried out pre-completion sound tests which achieved results well in excess of the new build standard. Airborne sound test results ranged from 49 dB (DnTw+Ctr) to 61 dB (DnTw+Ctr) and impact achieved 46 dB (LnTw), 16 dB better than the required new build standard.

Schiedel Chimney Systems now offer a comprehensive CPD on Chimney Systems to discuss the various aspects of chimney design and installation process.This can be presented remotely using Google Hangouts, Zoom, or any other conferencing system suitable for the recipients. The interactive discussion and presentations includes:Appliances, fuels and product typesBuilding regulationsCE markingSafety considerations such as Distance to CombustiblesDifferent types of installations and how to overcome problemsInstallation of mineral and steel systemsThe CPD also contained a number of video guides from our YouTube TV Channel which were shown and a USB stick was also provided which included a very handy guide in the form of a flowchart, which easily directed the user to the relevant areas on the stick where they could access drawings and easily download installation brochures relevant to them.A recent CPD was completed for Milton Architects. Mike and Amanda founded Milton Architects in 2005 after working together in London for larger, commercial practices. Their ambition was to create a small, design-focused architectural practice in Marlborough, that would offer their clients contemporary design services supported by well organised, professional expertise.“Schiedel Chimney Systems agreed to write and present a CPD covering the topics we requested. The seminar was extremely helpful and covered the technical knowledge that we needed. The presenters John and David were happy to take time during and after the presentation to answer questions and talk through some of the technical queries that we had on projects. A memory stick with information was also posted to us which has been really useful. We would highly recommend this seminar to Architects.”

As part of their ongoing relationship with Imperial College London, Newton Specialist Contractor A.P. Gooch assessed and waterproofed 11 Victorian brick vaults beneath the streets of Kensington, London, after the existing competitor ‘waterproof render’ failed.Imperial College London is a world top ten university, and it's top-class educational facilities in Central London are constantly used by multidisciplinary students, including doctors, and nurses, for their studies. It was therefore crucial for AP. Gooch to perform the work whilst also creating minimum disruption to the college students.Following a full assessment of the vaults, A.P. Gooch decided that the best option was to install the tried and tested ‘failsafe’ Newton System 500 cavity drainage membrane solution in order to depressurise, capture and safely manage ingressing water away from the building. A.P. Gooch also committed to carrying out the entire installation at night in order to cause as little disruption as possible to the College’s students.By installing Newton 508 membrane with strategically placed Newton MultiPlug fixings, the system remained sympathetic to the historic structure beneath. Newton Basedrain was also installed in order to channel captured water to one of four Newton Titan-2 sump chambers, the compact size of which made them ideal for use in a structure with such tight size restrictions. Each chamber also contained primary and backup Newton CP400 pumps to ensure that there will always be a safe means of removing captured water from the building.Now fully protected by a maintainable system, compliant with waterproofing code of practice BS 8102:2009, all 11 vaults are now completely dry, providing safe and healthy individual study rooms for the medical students at Imperial College.

Beneath the streets of Central London lies a network of Grade 2 Listed underground vaults. As Newton Specialist Contractors, Stonehouse were called in to waterproof four of these impressive structures and turn them into a completely dry commercial space. The four vaults were situated just North of the River Thames in Central London, a short walk from such famous landmarks as Smithfield Market and St Paul's Cathedral.The Grade II Listed structures are each over 4 metres in height, and form part of an impressive below-ground infrastructure network. Newton Specialist Contractor Stonehouse were asked to waterproof four of these impressive vaults for the multinational service provider KPMG, in order to turn them into useful commercial spaces.When waterproofing historic vaults such as these, the Newton CDM System provides the ideal solution as it is maintainable, requires minimal fixings and therefore avoids damaging the structure, and crucially is deemed as reversible should the structure need to be returned to its original condition in future.As an experienced contractor, Stonehouse proceeded with an expert installation of a full CDM System to the tricky vaults, including:508 Mesh membrane to the walls, for a direct plaster finish508 membrane and Fibran XPS 500-C insulation boards to the floor.Basedrain channels to direct any captured water towards two Titan-Pro sump chambers, each containing two NP400 pumps.Victron Inverter and a NorthStar battery for reliable backup power.Stonehouse completed an extremely complex and detailed cavity drain installation with precision, resulting in an exceptionally neat waterproofing system, and proving the benefits of using a specialist waterproofing contractor.

An impressive basement extension, housing a swimming pool and sauna, required a robust waterproofing solution at this large country home.Newton Specialist Contractor Stonehouse were brought onto this large residential project to waterproof an underground extension including a swimming pool and sauna. Set in a small village in Berkshire, the impressive countryside home was designed by architects Spratley and Partners.For the new below-ground structure, Stonehouse were required to install a failsafe and maintainable waterproofing system that would completely protect the luxurious basement from unwanted water ingress.Ensuring that the project was fully compliant with BS 8102:2009, Stonehouse recommended a combined waterproofing solution using a Type B reinforced and water-resistant concrete structure designed to BS EN 1992, combined with a full Type C internal cavity drain membrane system.As the most reliable and completely maintainable Type C waterproofing solution, the Newton CDM System was the ideal choice for this structure. Firstly, Newton 508 membrane was securely fixed to the internal walls of the basement using Newton's specialist MultiPlug fixings.Any water that is captured by the membrane is then drained away with Newton Basedrain channels, and pumped out of the property using a Titan-Pro sump chamber fitted with two NP400 pumps and supported by a failsafe battery back-up system.As an extremely experienced waterproofing contractor, Stonehouse were able to confidently recommend, design and install a comprehensive and truly failsafe waterproofing system that will protect the property from unwanted water ingress for many years to come. Stonehouse also provided complete peace of mind by offering a 10-year guarantee on the installation.

Retrofit RefurbishmentGastronomy Restaurants UK contacted us in 2023 as they were about to start a refit programme of KFC restaurants across the country. Stores had small, recessed matwells, but the open-construction Entrance Mats were filled with dirt and greasy food spills. They had become unsafe and unfit for purpose. With KFC's new strategic focus on quality and carbon reduction, they wanted a cost-effective, sustainable retail Entrance Matting product. It needed to cope with heavy footfall in a greasy environment and be easy to clean daily. INTRAlink2 is the ideal system for heavy, multi-directional traffic, with the wide fibre insert squares in INTRAlux Elite for maximum absorption. The team at INTRAsystems supported at every stage, providing expert insight, including test data and real-life case studies from other nationwide retail customers. Fixing Old, Small & Unsafe MatsWith limited space and an average of only 3-4m2 recessed Entrance Matting, KFC was struggling to limit slip incidents in wet weather. Cooking oil, which is in the air and cooking areas, settles around the store and is ultimately soaked up by the Entrance Mats. In addition, bits of spilled food and drink were getting stuck in drainage channels. This was limiting the performance of the small, recessed mats and providing little to no absorption or protection from the rain. Food technicians do most of the cleaning at the end of service, so the mats needed to be easy to clean with simple hoovering and brushing. A deeper clean every few months would then help ensure longevity. Heavy-Duty and High-PerformanceINTRAlink2 is a modular tile offering high durability and cost-effectiveness for retail entrance matting. The high-performance, 100% recycled PVC system has outstanding sustainability. And importantly, its closed construction keeps dirt and debris sitting on the surface instead of falling into drainage channels. So, it's much easier to vacuum and spot clean daily. With a cost-effective PVC structure, it's quick and easy to cut to shape than install, as each tile clicks into the next. Available with a choice of three fibre insert ranges with multiple colourways, it will enhance any retail interior. Gastronomy Restaurants chose INTRAlux Elite Anthracity 607 to match the new grey floor tiles being fitted, and complementing the 'more inviting...rustic, farmhouse décor' used in the refurbished KFC stores. Preventing Slips with Recycled Ocean PlasticsINTRAlux Elite is a high-density pile made from Econyl - 100% recycled nylon created from recovered ocean and landfill plastics. The fibre's density and coarseness deliver excellent moisture absorption and can cope with heavy and consistent traffic. Plus, it boasts impressive fire resistance and sound absorption. Green credentials abound with the fact that INTRAlink2 is manufactured from 100% recycled PVC. Being more sustainable in this way doesn't mean a compromise in quality. We're so confident in the product's hard-wearing performance, it comes with a 5-year warranty. "A Superior Product"Following successful trial installations by Jephsons Shopfitters at New Milton and Lichfield restaurant refurbishments, they have now confirmed the INTRAlink2 specification for the national brand rollout across 40 stores.“We’re going to be using your lovely matting on all the new builds and store refurbs from now on. It’s early days and we’ll see how it looks in 3 years, but it definitely seems a far superior product to the old system.”Facilities Manager, Gastronomy Restaurants. Gastronomy join the ranks of other satisfied retail customers with INTRAlink2, such as Waitrose, The Howard Centre and Co-Op. With a wide range of products to meet the retail challenge, high stock levels, short lead times and efficient installation, we’re the supplier of choice for this demanding sector.