"concrete repair products"

Christ Church URC in Chelmsford, Essex provides a hub for the whole community, hosting mother and toddler groups, social meetings and youth based events as well as traditional religious services. The church’s brick-clad structure includes exposed concrete columns which were showing signs of deterioration due to carbonation together with other factors causing the steel reinforcement to corrode and the surface to crack and spall, leaving the reinforcement bar exposed in areas.Sika supplied the long-term concrete repair and protection solution for a church façade which had displayed signs of deterioration due to long-term exposure to air pollutants.

Wensleydale Cheese has been made in Wensleydale, Yorkshire since 1150 when monks settles and lived at monestary at Forsnear Hawes. Today cheese is till handcrafted with the original recipe at the two Wensleydale Creamery sites using milk from local cows.Wensleydale Creamery required floor finishes throughout production floors which would be hygienic and very durable to provide a long term solution. Excellent chemical resistance was required against regular spillages from dairy produce such as whey.Dairy production procedures mean that floors are subjected to heavy duty use and impact from fork lift trucks and storage equipment.SystemThe system chose was FasTop TG69 polyurethane floor screed which has been applied throughout the two creamery sites. The system provides a completely seamless finish which is ant-slip even in wet conditions and which can be cleaned to the exacting conditions required in a modern food factory.Coved skirting has been formed around perimeters of all production and storage areas to create a 'tanked' finish which can be cleaned with hot water processes such as steam cleaning. The product has been tested and certified by Campden BRI as a non-taint product and is certified by HACCP as a food grade material.

Radmat has supplied a comprehensive range of systems for 20 Fenchurch Street, AKA the ‘Walkie Talkie’, in the City of London. Radmat’s PermaQuik, ParaFlex and EshaUniversal roofing membranes were installed during the creation of the Sky Garden – one of the highest green roofs in the world, offering breathtaking views over the capital.Designed by world-renowned architect Rafael Vinoly and jointly developed by Land Securities and Canary Wharf Group, 20 Fenchurch Street is constructed with impressive sustainability credentials to achieve an ‘Excellent’ BREEAM rating. The 38 storey tower incorporates a vibrant garden spanning the top three floors which is open to the public and by appointment. Described as the terraced ‘hanging gardens of modern Babylon’, the fifth-of-an-acre garden utilises drought resistant Mediterranean and South African flowers, shrubs and ferns, in soil up to a metre deep. The gardens also provide Rosemary, Thyme and other herbs to three restaurants within the building.Now London’s highest public park, the publicly accessible roof gardens include a viewing area, terrace, café, bar and restaurant. For such a unique space, it was crucial that the roofing system chosen delivered thermal performance, watertightness and long-term reliability for the client – specialisms of Radmat products. Land Securities and Canary Wharf Group awarded the work to Radmat on the basis of the company’s established reputation and expertise in all types of flat roofing.For the pitched green roofs, sectioned into a series of individual 45° slopes, EshaUniversal waterproofing was specified as part of a Radmat roofing system that included insulation and drainage layer. Made from recycled materials and 100% recyclable – EshaUniversal proved ideal to meet the demands at this sustainable development.Offering an efficient and safe installation, EshaUniversal is ideal for green roofs. More durable than elastomeric roofing, the system is also weather proof, UV stable and offers flexibility, durability and high puncture resistance making it ideal for challenging applications.Project Manager, Paul Nelson, said: “We have installed waterproofing systems over the concrete decks from ground up to second floor level then levels 34, 35, 36, 37 and 38. This required our installations teams to make repeated visits to site, using both internal and external hoists for access; with work completed in March 2014.”“The inverted roof arrangement means the waterproofing is covered by insulation and either paving, ballast or planted medium,” he added. “Then there is also the sky garden at an angle of 45 degrees planted with trees and shrubs, which will be accessible to clients using the restaurant there.”For public-access terracing across levels 34-38 – as well as a series of applications on the Ground Floor, second floor and the concrete staircase – over 1,200m² of Radmat PermaQuik PQ6100 was applied. With an independently verified durability ‘for the lifetime of the building’ and a market leading guarantee, the liquid-applied PQ6100 waterproofing system delivers exceptional performance befitting of this unique build.On level 37, where visitors can enjoy 360° views of the capital, additional waterproofing was required following the installation of a glass internal cladding system. With the glass already in place and challenged by high winds and low temperatures, the fast curing, cold applied ParaFlex waterproofing system was specified. Suitable for application at temperatures below zero reliable sealing can even be achieved at -5°C. Utilising collaborative working practices and a responsive and interactive design process, Radmat have created a stunning waterproofing and green roof application of the highest standard. Radmat’s proven range of waterproofing solutions met all the client’s demands and has ensured that visitors from all over the world can enjoy this stunning venue for many years to come.

Irwin Place is a stunning coastal property on the east coast of Guernsey. Designed by architects at The Drawing Room, Irwin Place is a prime example of how bespoke architectural aluminium systems can be incorporated to create a stylish and sustainable contemporary home.ARP supplied bespoke aluminium fascia, copings, and Colonnade aluminium downpipes. Our durable and stylish aluminium rainwater and roofline products were chosen to fit in with the varying weather conditions of the coastal environment.ARP's CAD team designed the bespoke aluminium fascia and coping, working with the Sarnian Roofing team throughout the process.The combination of roofing expertise from Sarnian Roofing, quality aluminium fabrications from ARP and expert design by The Drawing Room has resulted in a stunning coastal home. This magnificent project has been featured in prestigious magazines and received widespread acclaim as an exemplary representation of contemporary coastal architecture, highlighting its technical brilliance and expertise.We’re proud to have played our part in the success of this project, and we look forward to offering our expertise on similar projects in the future. Contact our team to discuss what aluminium can bring to your next project.

A friendly and welcoming school based in Blackburn in the North West of England, St Stephens Church of England Primary School is a place where pupils can develop their skills in a school that is proud of its Christian values and high standards of teaching. The school has been praised for its philosophy of continuous improvement by a recent ofsted inspection, providing a nurturing environment for children.Continuing the high level of teaching facilities was paramount for the school, and after discovering that the gutters and parapets of the building were aged and leaking, it was vital that a solution was found before this caused issues.The ChallengeIn coordination with Polyroof Products Ltd a survey was scheduled to take place at the site to determine the exact nature of the issues and formulate a solution. Upon inspection it was discovered that the existing waterproofing consisted of a single-ply membrane which had become aged with various leaks being reported and localised repairs carried out with not much effect. The underlying build-up consisted of a galvanised steel metal deck and had been coated in plasticol. Once the survey was complete it was clear that the gutters and capping’s would benefit from a high-performance waterproofing system installation, this would protect from further leaks occurring.The SolutionThe System of choice for this project was Protec Xtraflex. Protec Xtraflex is a highly flexible version of the Protec system designed for coating gutters. Its fast curing technology and imperviousness to standing water fulfilled the rapid solution needed to offer durable waterproofing performance for this project. Taking into consideration the information obtained from the survey, a bespoke Polyroof specification was created to combat all of the issues discovered. The chosen Polyroof Approved Contractor to carry out the work on this project was the KSD Group, a contractor with a wealth of experience in the roofing and construction sector.Once all these aspects were in place, work could officially begin. Firstly, it was highlighted that falls and drainage were already present, so the Polyroof specification made use of the existing falls, combining this with the chosen waterproofing system. During this project, there was no need to strip back any of the existing waterproofing. It was made good where required, allowing a smooth substrate for the new system to be bonded to. Once this stage was complete, the area was cleaned and prepared for the new system by removing any dirt and debris. The Protec Xtraflex system was now ready for installation. Firstly, all surfaces that required it were primed, including the single ply existing waterproofing, which required a Polyroof SP Primer 202. During this installation, all lap joints and bolt heads were applied with Polyroof Butyl Tape and Polyroof Butyl Lap Tape, reinforcing these points before application. Pre-formed high-quality Polyroof drip trims were installed to the outer edge of the metal capping, and new flashings were also installed to cover the exposed insulation at this detail.The first coat of Polyroof Protec Xtraflex was applied to the substrate. This consisted of Xtraflex resin and Polymat 450 and was allowed to cure. Due to the rapid cure technology of the system, this only took 30 – 60 minutes, allowing for quick installation. Once complete, the second coat of Protec Xtraflex Resin was installed and allowed to cure.CompletionThe project was efficiently managed by both the contractor KSD Group and regular Polyroof Technical Services visits to ensure that each aspect of the project from start to finish was carried out within the client’s specification, time frame and budget. The project was a great success showing the high-quality work from KSD Group. The customer can now be confident that this new Polyroof Protec Xtraflex membrane will last for many decades to come.

Project/location Aula Magna Università Torino –University of Turin in North West Italy is one of the oldest Universities in Europe but continues to play an important role in research and training, ranking 3rd in Italy for Universities covering these activities. This new build project in a lecture theatre in the faculty of Journalism and Literature project was part of ten-year construction project on the University site. For a modern floor finish in keeping with the design of the building a seamless finish was required – in total 301 m2 was installed in October 2020 with the Sherwin-Williams SofTop SL system and 61 m2 of Resuflor HB epoxy floor coatings.The concrete screed sub-base was poured in August. A comfort floor type finish was requested which would have sound absorbing characteristics and have a soft touch. The products being used needed to have extremely low VOC (volatile organic compound) content and have no smell when being applied. The finishing coating of the SofTop system installed was Resupen WB Colour which carries the Eurofin Gold certification for indoor air comfort which confirms that the product fulfils low odour product emissions.Product/technical spec including mechanical grinding and application of angle profiles using epoxy screed including the vertical parts.Following preparation Resuprime pure epoxy resin primer was applied at 400 gr/sqm and broadcasted with a 0,3-0,5 silica quartz to enhance intercoat adhesion with the resin topping. Once cured the SofTop SL polyurethane self smoothing floor system was installed, which uses a body coat SofTop SLR Flex with a UV stable seal coat of Resuflor WB Colour. Under the seated areas an application of a scratch coat using Resuflor HB was applied at 600 g/sqm which was abraded and then another coat of Resuflor HB Ral 7038 applied at 800 gr/sqm. Steps and walking areas were installed with SofTop SL system in Ral 7038 at 3000 gr/sqm to provide 3mm thickness.   The whole area involved sanding the vertical parts to remove roughness of epoxy screed and drops of the resin from horizontal application. This involved using sandpaper with grit 60 to horizontal surfaces and vacuum this ready to be coated. An application of 75 gr/sqm of Resupen WB Colour Ral 7038 was applied. SofTop floors provide extreme durability and robustness, yet retain a soft and comfortable finish which is modern and attractive for diverse applications. Designed with footfall and wear in mind the finish is so tough it’s suitable for industrial areas as well as commercial and domestic facilities. The SofTop range offers a choice of 3 flooring systems providing varying thicknesses with degrees of bounce and flexibility.SofTop SL used at Turin is typically installed at 2-4 mm thickness and is recommended for industrial and commercial areas subject to normal traffic. The system has a high wear resistance, high chemical resistance and medium resistance to shocks. The floor is suitable for dry areas such as schools, laboratories, corridor areas, electronic companies and health care facilities, etc. Where footfall occurs SofTop finishes are good for the back due to the soft impact effect. With many traditional hard floors, regular users can find they experience difficulties with back issues from walking on an unyielding surface. The soft finish provided with SofTop systems provides sound absorbing ergonomics, improving the acoustic properties of the building and reducing acoustic impact on other areas of the building. Systems deliver thickness for strength but with a soft finish which has excellent resistance to sharp objects, impacts, shocks and dropped objects, minimising the chance of remedial repairs being required. Being self smoothing polyurethane SofTop is one of the fastest ways to lay a flooring system and to create a beautiful and durable foundation that completes a construction or refurbishment. The SofTop floor systems available can be ready to receive traffic after only 24 hours. Because Sherwin-Williams systems are seamless and impervious to handle humid conditions, spills that stay on the surface can be easily cleaned and hygiene maintained, with no contamination. 

We supplied our partner, Fast Floor Screed Ltd with SMET LiteFlo® Lightweight Flowing Screed for the first floor of a timber frame house. This lightweight screed is ideal for renovation projects where loading is an issue. This is a high quality pumpable, factory-produced, CE marked, self-levelling screed based on calcium sulphate. German-made SMET LiteFlo® is unique because it’s the first pumpable lightweight flowing screed available. Made from specially selected aggregates – means it’s 30% lighter than conventional flowing screeds and can be laid in reduced thicknesses. The screed offers a high yield, 43kg per m2 @ 40mm.Innovative SMET LiteFlo® is particularly suitable for use in timber-frame builds, suspended timber floors, tower blocks, apartments, and high-rise buildings. SMET demonstrates best practice in construction partnerships – providing a superior level of customer service to their Smet Supported Partners during the installation process.Whether your job is – self-build, retro-fit, floor renovation or repair, design floor, commercial or shop, sustainable build, historical renovation, ECO build, Lightweight, or an industrial flooring venture – SMET have a flooring compound or ready to use product suitable for your application.www.smetbuildingproducts.com or www.smet.ie

Unity Square, NottinghamPAS68 seating and plantersStreet furniture | Street Planters | HVMTownscape Products has recently completed the hard landscaping for the Unity Square scheme in Nottingham.Unity Square forms a major part of Nottingham’s southern gateway regeneration project, which includes work to create a new-look Intu Broadmarsh centre, central library, bus station and car park.The hub was forward funded by LGIM Real Assets (Legal & General) and will accommodate HM Revenue and Customs’ (HMRC) new regional centre. The building now comprises of ten storeys and is due to open in late 2021. As the cornerstone of the redevelopment work taking shape across the city’s Southside, Unity Square will truly put Nottingham on the map once complete.”The site will eventually house up to 4,000 HMRC employees. Nicole Newbury, HMRC director and a senior sponsor for the Nottingham Regional Centre, East Midlands Region, said:“We can’t wait to move into our new regional centre. The new building is so much more than just bricks and mortar, it represents an exciting opportunity for us to utilise new technology and develop collaborative, new ways of working.Unity Square is one of ten regional hubs Legal & General has invested in to support the government’s efforts to modernise the civil service and save taxpayers’ money. Its investment in the programme crossed the £1.5bn mark last year. This scheme in Nottingham is particularly ground-breaking not only because of its size and central location but for its potential to transform the city centre, driving regional economic growth and supporting job creation.Working with Bowmer and Kirkland, a range of PAS 68 rated seating and planters were designed, manufactured, and integrated into the scheme.Finished in charcoal prestige, the concrete units were designed to complement the paving finishes.For more details of how we can help with your PAS68 requirements, please get in touch.

The 2014 Commonwealth Games’ swimming competition was played out at Tollcross International Swimming Centre. In anticipation of the games, the centre’s facilities underwent a complete refurbishment. Some of the screed below the tiles on the main competition pool floor had separated from the concrete pool tank. The entire floor needed to be re-laid. Glasgow City Council Scott hired, Tilecraft, a specialist tiling works company that delivers high quality tiles, to lay the tiles and specified products from ARDEX UK. A fast track solution which would produce high quality results was needed, and ARDEX UK seemed the logical choice.

The ChallengeThe design of two new two-storey, four-bedroomed homes with integral garages on the outskirts of Burnham village, Slough, was to be derived from the historical and varied architectural character of the surrounding area.The SolutionPROJECT INFOPRODUCT DETAILIt was important that the houses were not visually obtrusive in terms of height and detail. Their traditionally pitched roofs incorporate attractive half gable ends, and the front elevation includes detailed brickwork, stone cills and window heads.Forterra’s Hampton Rural Blend brick from the Ecostock range was selected for the build.The BenefitsEcostock is the most sustainable stock brick available in the UK. It is a high quality facing brick with recycled content. The range carries BES 6001 Responsible Sourcing certification.

The building that would be the St Margaret’s Primary School, officially opened by Robert Leitch the local parish vicar in 1889 provided education to children up to fourteen. The school underwent many changes in structure throughout its over 100-year existence continuing to provide the high level of teaching it always held. In 2012 it underwent a further change in the form of a huge modernisation project that would extend the school and allow more students to be taken. Unfortunately, leaks were reported on the older parts of the building and despite localised repairs were not ultimately solving the problem.After reports of leaks it was imperative that the roofs in question were inspected to find where the issues were originating, in action to this a site survey was undertaken. The survey highlighted the original build-up consisted of an asphalt on a timber deck, this original system was in a aged condition. It was also shown that standing water and vegetarian had developed on the roof. In order to protect the building from further leaking it was determined that the roof would benefit greatly from the installation of a high-performance waterproofing system.Along with waterproofing improvements, there would also be improvements made to the falls which would reduce the amount of standing water present on the roof.Waterproofing would not be the only recommendation; the roof was also to receive a full thermal upgrade which would further provide the benefit of increase fuel bills and less energy consumption for the school.Taking into consideration all these points, the Polyroof Technical team began creating a bespoke specification that would provide the details needed to make these recommendations a reality. The Polyroof Approved contractor Thomas Cassie & Sons was specifically chosen to undertake this project due to their experience in liquid roofing systems. With a specification and approved contractor ready the project could officially commence.

Radmat Building Products has supplied the waterproofing roofing system for the Crossrail Place shopping development and roof garden in Canary Wharf. The system provides high performance waterproofing and thermal insulation – guaranteed for the lifetime of the structure – and has enabled the construction of an extensively planted living roof.• The 310m long roof arches 30m over the park and opens to allow natural irrigation• Highly insulating roofing materials help create a microclimate for the gardensRadmat Approved Contractor Prater delivered a 9,300m² roofing solution using PermaQuik PQ6100 Hot Melt Monolithic Waterproofing Membrane, EshaFlex 370 WS Root Barrier and ProTherm insulation.Construction access to the complex inverted timber roof was challenging, so Radmat’s products were chosen for their quick and flexible application and fast-sealing properties.PermaQuik is widely used beneath green roof installations where long-term weather tightness is a necessity, and it was chosen to support the extensive and densely planted gardens, which are the main feature of the Crossrail Place roof terrace.The PermaQuik membrane was followed by EshaFlex 370 WS Root Barrier, a reinforced bitumen membrane that is torch applied to the base sheet. It was selected because of its thermal efficiency and suitability for use with living roof systems. Partnered with ProTherm’s excellent insulation, the complex timber roof now boasts a waterproof system that is BBA Certified to last the lifetime of the building.The wooden structure evokes the ships that once sailed into West India Dock and provides a warm, natural counterpoint to the steel and glass towers of Canary Wharf.And with Radmat’s high performance products and lifetime guarantee, the green roof terrace at Crossrail Place will be a living oasis in the heart of London’s financial district for years to come.

Modular buildings are becoming a more popular solution as they demonstrate cost savings, shorter construction time and sustainability benefits. Go Modular Technologies (UK) Ltd manufactured ten flats constructed by nine large modules on three levels over the concrete commercial ground floor for this project in Poole. We were able to offer an affordable A2 fire rated solution to finish the building envelope which resulted in the facade being completed in Hardie® Architectural Panel. The planning approval was originally for render and buff brick so we were able to provide a similar look with our Smooth Sand texture which was chosen in three of our core colours to give this coastal location a modern and contemporary look.

This Laudescher LINEA Bespoke 2.4.3 acoustic slatted panels with the purpose of managing the reflective nature of the walls within the main entrance area. The extremely specific design of the ceiling panels here where each slat cut from a glulam block so as to achieve a curve that is not stressed. The same product is used inside and outside so as to achieve a seamless finish through the glass.

Islington Wharf apartments are new build homes situated near Manchester city centre. The development features over 40 apartment variations ranging from one bed apartments to four bed family homes.We were tasked with providing quality, innovative bathroom products for the new development. Our specifications team immediately rose to the challenge.Face to face meetings took place with the client to understand their requirements. Discussions then proceeded with the product and design teams at TYDE and options were presented. After evaluating the products recommended, the WRAS approved Dudley Vantage cistern was a firm favourite along with the Dudley reef push plate.Testimonial“The products are of a very high quality. We like the ease of construction and the modern style of the push plate.”

Hardscape has helped bring local history to life working with Vector Design Landscape Architects and sculptor Emma Hunter as part of the Elk Mill Shopping Park redevelopment project in Oldham. The landscape architects were commissioned by owners, British Land, to create a scheme marking the legacy of Elk Mill – Oldham’s last working cotton mill, which originally started production in 1928 as the largest in the UK.

For this busy educational building with high footfall, the Unexpected Purpose modular carpet offers rich saturated colour and excellent wear performance. Its Comfort Lite cushion backing also provides additional sound absorbency, particularly important for the quiet study areas in this building. The LVT floor coverings provides the recreational areas with a hard wearing, practical solution and the perfect urban aesthetic.

This high quality, creative working environment in one of Bucharest's most iconic buildings includes a variety of spaces carpeted with Milliken modular carpet. The acoustic performance of the modular carpet delivers an extraordinary working environment for this high profile client in gaming technology.

BP's progressive new workplace features a creative combination of carpet four Milliken design collections to creative impact and visually zone the building. Beyond zoning, the stunning colour specification, effective use of colours transitions, mix of square and plank tile formats and installation as rug insets, make this a truly inspiration office environment. The floor coverings WellBAC® Comfort carpet backing also delivers additonal underfoot comfort and excellent acoustic and wear performance. Thanks to Milliken's M/PACT programme they are also fully carbon neutral.

The five-star Cameron House Hotel is set within 400 acres of beautiful Scottish countryside on the world-famous banks of Loch Lomond. The Hotel is the prestigious home to a collection of 140 bedrooms including 24 suites. The hotel offers a variety of dining experiences, including the Michelin starred restaurant Martin Wishart at Loch Lomond.When the flat roof areas above the main kitchen and the dining area began to leak, it was imperative that a rapid waterproofing solution could be found that could be installed without disturbing operations at the restaurants below.When the flat roof areas above the main kitchen and the dining area began to leak, it was imperative that a rapid waterproofing solution could be found that could be installed without disturbing operations at the restaurants below. The roof area itself was covered with an aged felt membrane that had been treated with a variety of localised repairs which could no longer prevent water ingress. A large amount of M & E plant was present throughout the roof, and any new waterproofing system would be required to seal the numerous stanchions and plinths in a fully weatherproof condition. After researching waterproofing systems online, Cameron House Hotel contacted Polyroof Technical Services for a recommended waterproofing solution that met their stringent criteria. Following discussions, the regional technical manager carried out a detailed roof survey of the roofs. The survey report formed the basis of a bespoke specification that covered a comprehensive set of recommendations to fully solve the roof’s problems.Polyroof Approved Contractor Skyform Roofing successfully tendered the project and the refurbishment works soon began. In order to avoid disruption to the hotel’s operations the existing roof coverings were retained as a substrate for the Protec system, without the need for stripping / replacement works. Due to the complex nature of the roof, works were carried out within a phased approach with the most problematic regions being refurbished first. Loose-laid M & E plant was relocated and the felt coverings cleaned and made good as required. The remaining roof details were then prepared as necessary before being primed ready to accept Polyroof’s cold liquid-applied Protec system.A key advantage of the Protec system for phased refurbishments is its speed of application and rapid curing. Unlike moisture-curing liquid systems, Protec forms a solid, extra-tough membrane that can be walked on 30 – 60 minutes after application. Not only does this reduce labour times and keep costs down, but crucially it allows the full system to be laid in it’s entirety in a matter of hours – rather than days. With its fibreglass reinforcement, the Protec resin is able to rapidly mould around any protrusion, stanchion, plinth or upstand to quickly form a totally seamless watertight seal – without the need for any time consuming cutting or patching work. This meant that the many complex roof details were able to be rapidly made waterproof, further reducing installation times.The contract monitoring undertaken by Polyroof Technical Services allowed the contractor and manufacturer to work effectively together to ensure the roofing solution delivered on all the client’s needs. The application by Skyform Roofing was completed to a very high standard with every roof detail meticulously sealed in a fully weatherproof condition.

Lee Valley Ice Centre originally opened in 1984, and before closing in 2021 welcomed over 279,000 visitors each year. With the old centre reaching the end of its operational life, it was time to design and build a brand new Ice Centre at Lee Valley Regional Park. The new centre, due to open in April 2023 will be home to 2 new ice rinks, doubling the capacity of the old centre, and inviting in new visitors as well as welcoming back those who visited before.As part of the redevelopment of Lee Valley Ice Centre, 95% of the concrete from the old centre was used in the foundations of the new centre. With this and many other environmentally friendly choices made in the construction, Lee Valley Ice Centre will become the UK’s most sustainable Ice Centre.The fully accessible centre will maximise the opportunity for sports for everyone, and with two Olympic-sized Ice Rinks, a brand-new café, gym, exercise studios and various other facilities, Lee Valley will be able to welcome up to 500,000 visitors. The range of facilities will encourage a variety of new visitors, from committed skaters, though to people stopping for a drink in the café before enjoying the green space in Lee Valley Regional Park.At Helmsman, we were pleased to be contacted by the main contractors for Lee Valley, The Buckingham Group, to supply the lockers, cubicles, vanity units and bespoke high-level cladding. We manufactured and installed 268 Bespoke Heavy Duty Laminate Lockers, with a variety of compartment configurations, and a range of different locking options.Our Heavy Duty Laminate lockers are a great option for high traffic areas, as they are more likely to withstand scratches and dents, so were a perfect choice for Lee Valley Ice Centre. The lockers also feature bespoke perforations in the doors and aluminium number plates. A selection of the lockers also have seat stands with the slats in matching laminate. A variety of locks were also used across the lockers in this project, with Ojmar Hasp locks the main choice for users to use their own padlocks, as well as Ojmar coin return locks and Lowe and Fletcher cam locks.The cubicles chosen for this project were our Front Line Cubicles with Hidden Fixings. These cubicles are tailored to suit the needs of the particular project, with bespoke sizing available. The fixings are hidden to provide a smooth surface and aesthetic finish. The cubicles were manufactured with 12mm Solid Grade Laminate from BioCarbon Laminates in colour Luna Grey, a fantastic carbon-neutral option which aligns perfectly with Lee Valley’s aim to be the first sustainable Ice Centre in the UK.As we manufacture all our products in house, and to order, we specialise in bespoke items. The project at Lee Valley Ice Centre featured bespoke high-level cladding, which our highly experienced installation team fitted on-site.Other products on this project included metal framed IPS panels, using both Luna Grey and Elegant Grey laminates from BioCarbon Laminates, and Helmsman High Pressure Laminate Vanity Units.It was great to work alongside Buckingham Group again for the Lee Valley Ice Centre project. Should you have a similar project, or want any more information on the products mentioned, give us a call on 01284 530 427 or contact us here.

We supplied our partner, Fast Floor Screed Ltd with SMET LiteFlo® Lightweight Flowing Screed for the renovation job in Fleet Screed in Dublin city. This is a high-quality pumpable, factory-produced, CE marked, self-levelling screed based on calcium sulphate.German-made SMET LiteFlo® is unique because it’s the first pumpable lightweight flowing screed available. Made from specially selected aggregates – means it’s 30% lighter than conventional flowing screeds and can be laid in reduced thicknesses. The screed offers a high yield, 43kg per m2 @ 40mm.Innovative SMET LiteFlo® is particularly suitable for use in timber-frame builds, suspended timber floors, tower blocks, apartments, and high-rise buildings.LiteFlo® complies with EN 13813: 2002, is CE-marked, and is available in 27Kg bags or bulk silos.Have a look at the Northern Builder MagazineTop 5 Liquid Screeds Article.  Read about SMET LiteFlo® in the Irish Construction News.SMET demonstrates best practice in construction partnerships - providing a superior level of customer service to their Smet Supported Partners during the installation process.Whether your job is – self-build, retro-fit, floor renovation or repair, design floor, commercial or shop, sustainable build, historical renovation, ECO build, Lightweight, or an industrial flooring venture – SMET has a flooring compound or ready to use product suitable for your application.www.smetbuildingproducts.com or www.smet.ie

Acoustic Products are proud to work on this £45million state of the art sports facility for undergraduate, postgraduate and research programmes for Leeds Beckett University. The focal point being the 60m indoor running track.

Devils Pit Farm is a detached farmhouse and is situated in the Blackdown Hills, an area of natural beauty near Taunton.The client had been experiencing problems with the existing uPVC gutter – it had begun to fail, and the joints had separated, which led to dampness creeping into the building, causing damage to the paintwork.The client was impressed after Mike from Simply Seamless Guttering (SSG) demonstrated the Mustang® Aluminium Seamless Gutter Machine.Mike from SSG visited the property to measure up and provide a quotation to replace the whole system, including aluminium downpipes. This was accepted, and shortly after, SSG installed the new rainwater system on-site.Mustang® Aluminium Seamless Guttering is a unique joint-less system and is the only seamless gutter system approved by the British Board of Agrément (BBA).Mustang gutters are roll-formed on-site in lengths of up to 30 metres with no joints, meaning no leaks, creating a neat, maintenance-free product of the highest quality that adds extra visual appeal with the additional peace of mind a premium product has been fitted. Mustang® guttering is manufactured from 90% recycled Aluminium and can be recycled at the end of its useful life.Mustang® Seamless Aluminium Guttering teamed with Colonnade swaged aluminium downpipes is an ideal replacement for the existing uPVC gutters because it is lightweight, non-corrosive and cost-effective. Made from recycled aluminium, it is durable and long-lasting and has an expected life span of over 30 years.The homeowner was particularly keen on the benefits of having a low-maintenance and unique joint-less system.Mike Smith of SSG is a Mustang® approved contractor, meaning he has received training, and ARP has inspected his work to ensure it meets the highest standard. ARP are happy to recommend him on future contracts knowing he will use quality ARP products.For Mike, the ability to offer a BBA Accredited System gives his clients the peace of mind that a quality system has been installed and will last for at least 30 years with little maintenance. 

Due to a high demand from our valued customers, we are proud to announce the latest product to our range - electric meter cover. Our Fire Rated Overboxes are a retrofit solution for keeping your gas and electrical meters safe from fire and tamper. These are ideally suited for refurbishment and newbuild products for multi-occupancy properties such as apartment blocks.

GSS designed this superb lecture theatre incorporating our Topakustik 9/2M for the ceiling and wall. The fantastic finish was installed by Titan (Horbury Group) on behalf of Galliford Try installed the Topakustik product between the plaster board sections.

Forth Valley College; included teaching spaces, lecture theatres, and catering facilities. Specified was two Acoustic Products systems being Laudescher Linea 2.6.8 and Linea 2.9.28. To combat sound reverberation, increase speech clarity and to lower the sound pressure levels.

Tricky floor refurb? Our Smet Supported Partner, contractor, Ciaran McAteer uses a practical solution for the professional flooring contractor or tiler.  VS 582 is a self-levelling smoothing screed with excellent mouldability for laying to falls. A flexible, self-levelling, mouldable, rapid-set, cementitious, fibre-reinforced surface filler, with 2-in-1 formulation for simultaneous levelling and creation of falls. Excellent workability and mouldability because you also have the flexibility of adding water.It’s strong, with a compressive strength after 28 days: approx. 35 N/mm² (as levelling coat laid to falls), dries quickly and is pumpableBenefits of Sopro VS 582:3 – 70 mm coat thickness For floors, indoors and outdoors2-in-1 formulation: suitable as self-levelling filler and for laying to fallsCompressive strength after 28 days: approx. 35 N/mm² (as levelling coat laid to falls)Flexural tensile strength after 28 days: approx. 7 N/mm² (as levelling coat laid to falls)Self-levellingOutstanding mouldability when laid to fallsQuick-dryingFlexible, fibre-reinforcedPumpableSuitable for timber flooringSuitable for floor heating systemsLong working life: 30 – 40 minutesWalkable after 2 – 3 hoursNo client is too large or too small, SMET delivers another innovative, showcase flooring solution. Click here at other jobs using our Sopro levellers.SMET is renowned for its comprehensive range of professional CE marked, EPD certified products. The SMET flooring range includes; calcium sulphate-based screed binders, self-smoothing calcium sulphate-based screeds & compounds, cement-based screed binders, self-smoothing cement-based screeds, lightweight flowing screeds, professional tiling materials & tools, tanking and wet-room solutions, barrier coats, primers & bonding agents; for any domestic, commercial, industrial or design-flooring use.Suffice to say, the SMET product portfolio includes a German-made floor solution for any new or repair flooring requirement. Get in touch for your upcoming floor screed or tiling project.

As part of the regeneration programme within the bid for the 2012 Summer Olympics, the Olympic Village (now known as the multiple award-winning East Village) was designed to house the athletes based on reusing the buildings after the games as a new residential district for Stratford.The 67 acres site, provided for 11 residential plots, each made up of 5 to 7 blocks, built around communal squares and courtyards, with water features accentuating the proximity of the River Lea.Radmat Building Products provided the waterproofing system and the MedO Extensive living green roofs on much of the apartments, to provide a low maintenance and self-sustaining plant community. Working with expert horticulturalists, Radmat Building Products have developed the MedO range of living green roofing systems. All systems are suitable for both new and refurbishment projects and are constructed using the appropriate drainage board, filter fleece and growing medium for the planting required.

This groundbreaking project required a sheathing board that would form an integral part of an insulated render system, providing 60-minute through-wall fire resistance and meeting project-specific acoustic requirements. Project: Northumbria Specialist Emergency Care Hospital Project Value: £70 million Architect: Keppie Design Main Contractor: Lend Lease Subcontractor: Farpod Dry Lining Product: Versapanel Size: 2800mmx1200mmx12mm Quantity: 30,000m2

When it comes to refurbishing a landmark as historic and luxurious as the Old War Office, every detail counts. The selection of Access Building Products Access Panels for this prestigious project is a testament to the company’s commitment to quality, design, and functionality.The Project: A Blend of History and LuxuryFast forward to today, the Grade II listed Old War Office building, which has been closed to the public for more than a century, has undergone a magnificent transformation. The building has been re-imagined and redeveloped into a luxury hotel and residences, bringing a new lease of life to this historic site. This transformation demanded products that could match its grandeur while maintaining its historic charm.The Challenge: Balancing Aesthetics and FunctionalityEvery customer wants their access panels to seamlessly blend with the interior design, ensuring that the necessary utility access points don’t detract from the building’s aesthetic appeal. This was a critical consideration for such a historical building.The Result: A Seamless Fusion of History and ModernitySupplying a range of discreet steel and plaster in style access panels in the Old War Office refurbishment was a resounding success. These panels not only met the practical requirements but also added to the overall aesthetic, creating a harmonious blend of historic elegance and modern luxury.The Old War Office now stands as a shining example of how to preserve historical charm while incorporating modern necessities. This project has further cemented Access Building reputation as a reliable provider of high-quality access panels, capable of meeting the demands of even the most prestigious refurbishment projects.In conclusion, when history meets luxury, it’s essential to make the right choices. And in the case of the Old War Office refurbishment, Access Building Products Access Panels were the perfect choice.

Originally an anonymous, almost forbidding, seven-storey office block constructed in the 1980s, York House on Pentonville Road in Islington is being transformed into a contemporary, light-filled co-working space fit for 21st century use.The original building frontage was set back from the road, but the addition of a new five-story front extension introduces an attractive double-height entrance with offices above. Using similar engineering bricks to the main, original building, the new construction allows light to flood in through the use of structurally self-supporting perforated brick lattice, angled at 45 degrees to gain stiffness. A cross-laminated timber structure sits behind while openable windows allow fresh air to circulate.At roof level, a new, cross-laminated timber structure, clad in a perforated zig-zag aluminium screen, echoes the front extension while softening the building edge.The brick selected for the project was a Blue Brindle Smooth – a high quality smooth brick that closely matched the masonry of the original building. The complexity of the lattice work structure required special shapes of brick and perforation to allow visibility through the bricks at the right points. Working closely with the architect, it took the team nine months of developing and testing to get the strength of the product right. Three lengths of brick were produced and used in the construction of the extension: 215s were used in the building of the chevron parapet, 345s were used on the parapet and alongside the entrance, and 440s were used to create the latticework on the main entrance.We are proud to announce that York House was highly commended at the 2019 Brick Awards in the Innovation category and is a great example of a collaborative approach with our customers.

As part of the multi-million-pound restoration of Grade I listed Manchester Town Hall, window restoration specialist Shepley Engineers is restoring, refurbishing, repairing and replacing hundreds of historic leaded and metal casement windows throughout the site using Hodgson Sealants Metal Casement Putty and Leaded Lite Cement. Each piece of glass from the iron-framed leaded lite windows from the state rooms has been removed, cleaned, repaired – or replaced by new fabrications if necessary – and reinstated using Hodgson’s Leaded Lite Cement in Shepley’s on-site restoration studio. The metal casement windows on the lower floors have been removed to Sheffield for restoration using Hodgson’s Metal Casement Putty, a high quality, hand-applied glazing compound that is formulated or bedding and external fronting of single glass into primed steel, timber frames, sealed hardwood and concrete. It is designed to be overpainted as in this project.

The sports club is a regular host of Scotland cricket international matches as well as hosting hockey, squash and tennis. Neil and the senior groundsman had noticed a couple of issues surfacing on a large grassed area of the club which was occasionally used as an access route, vehicular parking and servicing of the ground during big cricket matches and other events. We look at how TurfMesh worked for The Grange while causing minimal effects to the aesthetics of this beautiful sports ground.Knowing that to improve the situation, the club would need to invest in an efficient grass reinforcement solution, Neil and the senior groundsman began researching grass reinforcement products which soon led them to our website and our range of TurfMesh products, in particular TurfMesh 1800 – our thickest turf mesh variant.They both read up on the meshes many benefits including its ability to withstand the weight of cars and lorries as well as being very easy to install using just u-pins whilst protecting the root of the grass. Impressed by its capabilities and discreetness once the grass below has grown, over 1000m² of the TM1800 was ordered along with enough U-Pins to secure the mesh into the ground which was dispatched the next working day and delivered to the club via pallet delivery just a few days later.With the TurfMesh and u-pins at the sports club, the senior groundsman and his team could begin installing their new grass reinforcement mesh on to the prior planned area. TurfMesh is a simple product to install, simply unroll the mesh and position over the area you want to cover. To secure the mesh, evenly space and use two u-pins per. Repeat the process of unroll and secure until the entire area has been covered. The team followed this procedure which they found to be simple and effective. With the mesh secure, the groundsman then decided to dress the top of the TurfMesh with sand to compact the area further. All that was left to do after was wait for the grass below to grow through and disguise the mesh to give them a strong and natural looking surface!Neil and the groundsmen that worked with the TurfMesh are very pleased with the results and how it has performed. Neil told us:“As you can see the grass has grown in very well at this end. There is still a bit of sand, which we dressed in, on the surface at the south end but we’re very happy with the way it is working.” “We have a couple of One Day Internationals coming up in the next few weeks, Scotland v England and Scotland v Pakistan, so we are hoping the grass will look pristine by then.”We would like to thank Neil and Grange Sports Club for firstly, choosing to use our grass reinforcement mesh and for sharing the photos and details to allow us to create an in-depth case study of their project. If you have questions regarding our grass reinforcement mesh or any of our other products then please do not hesitate to contact us

Heated Lockers were the focus of Helmsman’s most recent project. We travelled up to South Kirby in Pontefract, Yorkshire to work alongside Triton Construction at the brand-new Innovation Hub at Production Park. Production Park is a unique support environment for the live events industry, uniting technology, creative spaces and education. Their newest venture is the brand-new Innovation Hub, with a large research studio with connected offices and teaching spaces. The new innovation hub features specialist equipment designed to support the live events industry as well as a business support programme focusing on assisting SMEs.In an area off the main entrance lobby, Helmsman installed a set of Wet Specification Heated Lockers. With a mix of 1, 2 and 4 compartments, these lockers are designed with a single or twin tube heater at the bottom of the locker, hidden within the locker stand, and perforations throughout to allow warm and/or damp air to circulate and escape the locker. Triton Construction requested a modern, heavy duty laminate finish for these heated lockers. The body of the lockers was manufactured from aluminium and powder coated in colour Ice, whilst we used Biocarbon’s Solid Grade Laminate in colour Elegant Grey for the locker doors, end panels and cladding. This laminate is a great choice as it is carbon neutral as well as being moisture resistant and easy to clean, perfect for a semi-public area such as this project. Our heated lockers can either come with a standard 3 pin power plug or can be available with a spur to wire into a fused switch. Triton construction requested a plug which was positioned on the end panel of the bank of lockers.We paired stainless steel numbers recessed into the doors with Lowe and Fletcher camlocks for a seamless finish to the lockers.  This option of lock is simple and cost effective, whilst also safe and secure.It was great to work with Triton Construction on this project and we look forward to hearing about the success of the Innovation Hub at Production Park in the future. If you have a similar project, or want to know more about our Heated Lockers, contact us today on 01284 530427.

Employing precision techniques and careful material selection, Hardscape assisted in the design and production of innovative paving artwork for Regent Street, in the centre of Douglas. The Isle of Man Town and Village Regeneration Scheme was implemented to infuse a new energy into the island’s commercial districts.