"air conditioning systems"

Hethel Engineering CentreBauder Thermoplan FPO single ply system with Bauder solar PV systemSynopsisHethel Engineering Centre supports high performance engineering companies located throughout Norfolk. The original building at the centre had been operating at maximum capacity and they urgently required a new building to satisfy increasing levels of demand. The client wanted the new facility to meet a high level of sustainability, achieving a BREEAM excellent rating and using key renewable technologies, such as photovoltaics (PV) to minimise its environmental impact.Bauder Building BoardProject:Hethel Engineering CentreLocation:Hethel, NorfolkProject type:New buildRoof size:2,500m²Specifier:NPS GroupApproved contractor:Voland AsphalteThe specificationBauder’s Thermoplan single ply membrane was specified for the new building’s 2,500m2 roof due to its longevity. Roof areas totalling 500m² were fitted with 160 PV Modules, enabling the centre to generate at least 44.23 mWh of solar power each year and annual CO² savings of 23.40 tonnes. The PV system was installed without any penetration of the waterproofing or roof deck, ensuring the integrity of the roof is completely upheld. The simplicity of the installation also meant that approved contractor, Voland Asphalte, could install the entire PV array in just one day.Products appliedBauder solar PV system160 solar photovoltaic modules were installed with an expected energy generation of 44.23 megawatt-hours and a kilowatt peak of 47.20 along with Bauder's Thermoplan single ply membrane.  Project challengesThe centre remained operational throughout the works, which caused logistical challenges, however all deliveries were timed as not to conflict with vehicles moving in and out of the facility. The work at HEC was completed on time and to budget, providing the client with an innovative roof that boasts extraordinary environmental credentials.System installedThermoplan Single Ply System 1 Bauder Thermoplan FPO FPO membrane with laminated fleece for adhered installations; pre-coated cross weave polyester reinforcement for high levels of tear resistance.2 BauderPIR M 60An efficient PIR flatboard insulation with aluminium foil facing on both sides and rebated edges to remove a thermal bridge.3 BauderTEC KSDA technically advanced self-adhesive elastomeric bitumen air and vapour control layer with an aluminium foil facing for vapour impermeability.AdvocacyKarl Manning at NPS Group: “Hethel Engineering Centre is a perfect example of a project where outstanding workmanship and top quality products can harmoniously come together to deliver an exceptional, sustainable roofing solution. The Voland team in collaboration with Bauder provided the highest degree of technical support throughout the project, helping us overcome any issues we encountered promptly and efficiently.”

Bespoke wall protection from contract interior specialist Gradus is creating a fun and attractive atmosphere at a state-of-the-art new medical facility, while also ensuring excellent hygiene and low maintenance costs. Evelina London Children’s Day Treatment Centre, part of Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, has been built to provide more life-changing care for children and young people with rare and complex conditions. Overseen by Morgan Sindall, the project saw Gradus collaborate with Art in Site - a London-based studio of artists, designers and strategists – and ADP Architecture, to create a wall cladding solution with integrated art that helps the hospital’s young patients to heal, learn and thrive.

Our case study video featuring our customer, Interior Writer and Stylist Reena. The case showcases a single storey Bungalow, transformed into a contemporary, Scandinavian inspired family home, with the use of Vario by VELUX Rooflights. Reena, like us, is passionate about Daylight and Fresh Air and whilst this is evident throughout her home, the Danish concept of Hygge was also a huge inspiration for her renovation. Hygge = Referring to comfort, pleasure and warmth within simple soothing things such as a cosy atmosphere. We think Reena has managed to achieve exactly that, with the use of Natural Light reflecting and shifting against beautiful raw materials inside her home. 

The LAMILUX U.K Ltd installation team recently completed a school refurb project in York, where they installed an incredible 65 meter long X 2.4 meter wide LAMILUX Continuous Barrel Vault Rooflight. Designed with 16 integrated single ventilation flaps, evenly spaced along the rooflight for natural ventilation, the Barrel Vault rooflight, was positioned above classrooms and communal areas to not only enhance natural daylight in the rooms below, but also provide natural aeriation. Results from studies have proven that ventilation coupled with natural daylight will not only enhance the learning of the pupils in the classrooms, but also enhance the pupils health benefits with good indoor air quality. 

In spring 2015, the Spitzacker shopping centre in Urdorf (ZH) was reopened after considerable renovation and extension. The retail area has been totally transformed and has almost doubled in size, with numerous new tenants. There are 13 new stores housed in the complex, built in the style of a bright, spacious mall with a glass roof.All shop entrances feature record THERMCORD sliding doors with thermal insulation. The benefits of the THERMCORD model are very clear, as it plugs one of the last gaps in a building’s thermal insulation. During the day the doors provide regular, reliable service, and after closing prevent heat loss, or heat penetrating into a space requiring controlled air temperatures.www.migros.ch

On this office refurbishment the original windows were non-thermally broken aluminium and for that reason not suitable for a residential tenancy.With the windows being on the 12th floor it would have been extremely difficult and expensive to replace them - due to scaffolding etc. Therefore, after a recommendation, the client decided to source Incarnation secondary glazing.As an office refurbishment in a busy built-up area, noise reduction was a key consideration. Using a hidden coupling bar between two units was a key feature, allowing the secondary glazing to match the sightlines of the original windows perfectly. By installing the secondary glazing with an air gap of 150mm between it and the existing window resulted in an impressive decibel reduction.

Originally opened in 1863 and voted 'Best UK National Treasure' at National Geographic Traveller Magazine Reader Awards, the Grade 1 listed, iconic British landmark, The Temperate House at Kew, reopened in 2018 after a major five-year, £41 million restoration. Comprising five pavilions and showcasing over 10,000 new plants from all over the globe, this glass cathedral is the world’s largest Victorian glasshouse, protecting the often rare and tender plants throughout the UK’s cold winters. Commissioned in 2017 by renowned architects Donald Insall Associates - heritage and historic building specialists - and working with ISG, the global construction and engineering company, Britannia designed and manufactured 146 bespoke cast iron floor grilles - a total of 73 linear meters - to house part of the vast new sunken trench heating system. The original inadequate and inefficient heating, ventilation, and irrigation systems were no longer in adequate condition or sufficient for the purpose, and a new biomass underfloor heating system was added to produce ambient temperatures for the plants without impacting the integrity of the building. The finished bare metal design CGA03, meticulously created by our highly experienced pattern makers, echoes the original traditional Victorian grilles found elsewhere within the glasshouse complex and has since become Britannia’s signature grille. We are exceptionally proud to have been chosen and trusted to complete this award-winning project and are equally proud of our teams to produce it – from design, to manufacture, to installation.Frequently referred to as Cathedral, Ecclesiastical, or Victorian decorative floor grilles and as seen here, often placed over channels holding heating pipes, they provide a practical and decorative heating vent. Originally designed for churches they are increasingly popular in private houses, greenhouses, and commercial building developments. Our grilles can be ordered in cast iron or cast aluminium and finished in a wide variety of options.We also work in association with Gunning Heating, making decorative cast iron grilles that fit seamlessly into their underfloor trench heater units.  See our website for a full list of our grille designs and finishes or contact us to discuss your bespoke requirements.

RESIN BOUND FOR RBG KEW WALKWAYAddagrip Terraco are delighted to have been involved in the Broad Walk project at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew with the installation of over 3000sqm of our innovative resin bound porous paving system, Terrabase Rustic.SURFACING REQUIREMENTSAddagrip Terraco were approached as the UK ‘s leading manufacturer of resin exterior surfaces and together with approved contractor, True Grip Ltd, carried out extensive surveys and put together several specification options and costs that Kew could consider. Kew selected Addagrip’s new patented resin bound surfacing system Terrabase Rustic as it offered a larger 6-10mm stone size providing the rustic looking finish that Kew required and could be installed over the existing macadam with minimum environmental impact and disruption. Drainage was another key requirement and the larger stone size of this bound system provides maximum porosity.As the Terrabase product was relatively new, the surface had to meet many exacting performance criteria put forward by Kew which Addagrip was able to substantiate. After 9 months of discussion, True Grip Ltd were appointed to work via main contractor Kier Facilities Services to install the Terrabase Rustic Oak finish. Despite challenging weather conditions and site restrictions due to the public use of the main areas, True Grip Ltd installed 3,163m2 over the entire Broad Walk, following behind Kier Facilities Services who were installing extensive drainage services and brick edging.The new Terrabase Rustic surface is hard wearing, low maintenance with no loose stone and provides a seamless, natural rustic pathway which looks very much at home in the grounds of London’s historic Royal Botanic Gardens.This exciting project has created the longest double herbaceous borders in the UK. The 300m long borders either side of the Broad Walk from the Orangery to the Palm House Pond, were planted with swathes of vibrant summer flowering perennials, grasses and bulbs to form a spectacular new horticultural feature. Planting continued into early summer 2016 to complete the project.Image credit: Richard Wilford, RBG Kew

The project consisted of two similar flat roof areas totalling 1,100m2 above high-rise residential blocks in a city centre location. The existing roofs were an inverted roof design that had been waterproofed with single-ply that had failed prematurely. Numerous short-term, localised repairs had failed to stop the water ingress and leaks had been a long-term problem.It would have been impractical to remove the tons and tons of ballast and insulation from the top of the high-rise building and it was imperative to the client that removal or replacement works were not involved at all. The specific nature of this project required careful consideration, and so a survey of the roof was arranged.The SolutionA report from an independent consultant commissioned by the client identified a problematic challenge with an overlay option. The existing falls of the roof were assessed to be poor, and so standing water would be an issue for any new waterproof covering. The report concluded that this would reduce the lifespan of an overlay waterproofing system and so was advised against. The client initially thought this to be a stumbling block and that costly and impractical modifications to the roof would need to be made.Having worked with Polyroof on scores of other projects, the client turned to Polyroof Technical Services for a solution that could meet their stringent criteria. Following on from the preliminary discussions, Polyroof’s Technical Services assessed the site, taking core samples and then providing a suitable specification to overlay the roof with the Protec System.The BBA certification of the Protec system specifically covers use for zero falls (completely flat) applications, meaning the client had absolute peace of mind that standing water would not be a detriment to the integrity of the waterproofing system. The client was able to achieve the original objective of an overlay system and benefited from the associated cost and time savings. Furthermore, the BBA certificate states that when used in inverted roof scenarios the lifespan of the Protec system is as long as the design life of the roof.Work was started with J R Flat Roofing, a Polyroof approved contractor with national coverage, moving the ballast and insulation to one-side in four phases of 140m2 at a time, exposing the single-ply membrane to which the Protec system was directly applied.Due to Protec’s rapid cure and walk-on times (30-60 mins dependent on conditions), the system is ideal for larger, phased refurbishment, as specific sections of the roof can be made waterproof with the full Protec system in one day. When carrying out the next section, the new Protec membrane forms a totally seamless and watertight joint to the existing Protec-covered areas.Another objective was to reuse the original inverted insulation and ballast pebbles as this was cost saving and negated the need for the lifting logistics that would have been involved in bringing the ballast to ground level. Additionally, it made the process as environmentally compliant as possible by keeping waste to a minimum. The insulation and pebbles were re-applied in its original format and, due to the weight of the pebbles, was a mammoth task that required three miniveyors to help with the handling. A series of special aluminium breather vents were also fitted down to the concrete slab roof substrate to enable the surface to dry out over a period of 12 months.The whole job was completed in three weeks and the client was delighted with the finished work. With a 20-year insurance back-guarantee and a maintenance-free waterproof membrane that will last as long as the roof stands, the client was once again left with total peace of mind that their buildings could not be better protected.

The Burton Borough School development is a brand new sports hall for Burton Borough School in Newport, Telford. As this building will be used primarily by schoolchildren, it was especially important that it was built using a durable solution which can stand up not only against weather conditions, but is fully non-combustible.Ash & Lacy worked through Kynaston Contract Services with Pave Aways Building Contractors and TACP Architects to deliver for Telford & Wrekin Council a MechSlip façade employing Ibstock’s Himley Ebony Black brick. Developed in conjunction with Ibstock Kevington, MechSlip is a lightweight, mechanically fixed system that offers significant advantages including reduced installation times and associated costs, as well as being classified A1 (non-combustible) to EN 13501-1 fire testing standards by Exova Warringtonfire.This project shows some of the design versatility of MechSlip as well, with the projecting header pattern on the building’s front elevation being achieved by alternating between half bricks and full bricks to create a memorable impression which manipulates shadow well. MechSlip allows specifiers and architects to create distinctive façades thanks to the flexibility of different sizes of brick slips and choice of multiple colours and textures.As well as offering the reassurance provided by a mechanically-fixed design, MechSlip has been rigorously tested to the Centre for Window & Cladding Technology (CWCT) standards, for wind resistance, water tightness and impact resistance. The result is that it eliminates the weather dependency of traditional building methods without compromising on the choice of brick finish.

Project Name: Charter SquareLocation: SurreySector: ResidentialDeveloper: London SquareSystem Supplied: Bespoke Fabrication, LandMark IICharter Square, a large-scale residential and commercial development in Staines-Upon-Thames, was delivered in three phases to revitalize a previously neglected stretch of the high street. The project aimed to create a vibrant, mixed-use community by providing 440 homes alongside commercial spaces, improved public areas, and amenity space for residents.Fusion Facades played a pivotal role in the success of Charter Square by being awarded the supply contract for various components of the development's facade. The company was responsible for supplying window heads and cills, spandrel panels, and LandMark II rainscreen cladding.The flagship development is located in a highly sought-after area and features an impressive mix of contemporary and traditional architectural styles. The facade, in particular, was designed to be visually striking and functional, as it needed to be able to withstand various weather conditions while providing thermal insulation to the homes and commercial spaces.Fusion Facades rose to the challenge by providing high-quality bespoke solutions tailored to the specific requirements of the project. The company's expertise and experience in delivering complex facade systems were evident throughout the development's construction, ensuring that the project was delivered on time and to the highest standards.Charter Square has already made a significant impact on the surrounding area, breathing new life into a previously neglected stretch of the high street. The development's blend of residential and commercial spaces has created a vibrant, bustling community that has quickly become a desirable place to live and work.Overall, Charter Square is an excellent example of how innovative design and high-quality construction can transform a neglected area into a thriving, modern community. Fusion Facades' contribution to the project played a vital role in its success, highlighting the company's commitment to delivering outstanding facade solutions that meet the needs of clients and communities alike.

The Beacon Shopping Centre is well known for great places to shop, eat and play. The busy centre required a sturdy door with a strong profile to take on the variable weather conditions. We were happy to advise and provide a solution that allowed savings in energy costs and a pleasant experience for shoppers.Project Year: 2020Product: (Terminus Road Main Entrance): SL500 Framed Sliding Door with break out and SL500 150mm operator.Product: (Sainsbury’s entrance): SL500 Framed sliding door system with break out and SL500 150mm operator.Project Background: The Beacon shopping centre is one of Eastbourne’s most popular shopping destinations. We were contacted in conjunction with Hawes Construction Group to put in two new sets of automatic sliding doors across the mall in two locations; the centre’s main entrance and the entrance to Sainsbury’s within the centre. Hawes Construction laid the foundations and installed new steel columns which were part of the doors support system, getting the site ready for the door installation.Solution: We installed the SL500 Framed sliding door with a 4 leaf panel, side screens and SL500 bi-parting operator, providing extra sturdiness and protection from the strong winds that regularly hit Eastbourne. We used Clear Insulated laminated 22mm glass which look streamlined whilst creating an improved environment for customers and staff at The Beacon.Our exclusive presence detection sensors and sidelight presence detection sensors were a large factor in enabling the doors to provide a more energy efficient outcome for the shopping centre. The FAAC sensor technology allowed partial opening of the doors, which saved ample energy as doors do not open unless somebody intends to walk through them. Presence detection sensors and sidelight presence detection sensors to comply with EN16005.The final outcome was a great success, creating optimal accessibility for all users, streamlining entry and saving energy.

Project description: 8 skylights - Repair and Re-glaze in Georgian wired obscured glass.The units were in an awful condition as you can see from the pictures, showing extensive rot. All of them were stripped back to bare wood, the putty removed and glazing taken out. We then used a Sadolin Super Dec in white to bring in the parts under the window and replaced the hooked with more tradition lead ones.  Once puttied, we removed the tape as to give it the best possible line before it dried (Timbabglaze is normally paintable after just 1 hour). Once dry we re-masked and used a Dulux UK weathershield system. This was a supergrip primer, oil based Dulux weathershield under coat and finally 2 top coats of Dulux weathershield gloss. The tape was removed and you have the finished product for the first 6 windows.The last 2 windows proved to be a problem. They had been re glazed previously but had been done very badly. The wood was rotten and had to be repaired. After struggling to get the glass out as it had been silliconed in... We used Timbabuild products again. To start with we raked out all the rotten wood back to a hardish part. We then used a Timbabuild 2 part EWS wood primer to give the wood some structure and a base for the next part. Once the EWS had gone off we applied Timbabuild EHB60 epoxy repair. This was left over night (as it was applied last thing in the day) and sanded back to an edge the following day. We then used the Timbabuild ERC10 Rapid curing epoxy adhesive over the top to fill any gaps that needed it. Then a surface layer of 2 part Timbabuild FINISH. They were sanded using a 180 grit paper and received the same paint system as the other 6 windows. The glass was replaced as well as the hooks and the finished results speak for themselves. 

City Tower, a private apartment tower block located in Canary Wharf required a new high performance waterproofing system as the existing single ply roof had been damaged beyond repair due to a fire. To provide a cost effective, long term waterproofing solution, Proteus Waterproofing specified a Hybrid Tapered Insulation Scheme with a Proteus Pro-Felt® finish, meeting the client’s specific requirements.High Performance WaterproofingAs the existing roof was beyond repair, it needed be completely stripped. Pro-Prime® SA and Proteus Pro-Felt® Self Adhesive Underlay were used as a vapor control layer. Proteus Pro-Therm EPS and Proteus Pro-Therm PIR were used for the Hybrid Tapered Insulation Scheme and bonded using Pro-Bond Foaming Adhesive. Proteus Pro-Felt® 3mm Plain Underlay was then fully adhered to the insulation, followed by a final installation of Proteus Pro-Felt® Ultima Plus Fireguard. Proteus Waterproofing worked closely with the Proteus Approved Contractor to ensure the project was delivered to a high standard.Health & SafetyWhen working on residential buildings, safety is always of utmost importance. Proteus Pro-Felt® Ultima Plus Fireguard has the highest European Fire Rating, BROOF(t4), making it the ideal felt to use on residential properties as the risks to operatives, building occupants and members of the public are greatly reduced. All Proteus Waterproofing specifications promote fire safe installation methods conforming to the industry lead Safe2Torch guidelines.Long Term PerformanceProteus Pro-Felt® Ultima Plus Fireguard is a high-performance multi-layer bituminous membrane system, tested to perform in extreme temperatures and weather conditions. It has class leading modified bitumen content which allows the flexible membrane to move with the building and ensure long term durability and performance. It is certified by the BBA to be in excess of 30 years, and had the highest European Fire Rating – BROOF(t4).

It’s time to change the way we finish and protect our interior and exterior wood forever. We are now live on NBS - a platform, which enables architects and specifiers to easily find the products that are perfect for the projects they're working on.Rubio Monocoat provide environmentally friendly interior and exterior oils for wood preservation. With 0% VOCs and the environmental credentials to back it up, we really are the future of wood staining and protection.Who are Rubio Monocoat?Born and based in Belgium, we have expanded over the globe and into the UK and Ireland. In 2000, the company started with the development of an oil, based on a revolutionary technology called molecular bonding, conducted by Dr. George Barrell. This innovative technology has played a huge part in the success of our products.Molecular Bonding is the process of the oil adhering with the fibres of the wood. Within a couple of minutes, the oil has bonded with the upper microns in the wood, meaning no film formation or saturation. The innovative technology means wood is protected in just one single layer.The environmental credentialsRubio Monocoat products contain no VOCs (volatile organic compounds) or harmful chemicals that emit into the air or come into contact with your skin. Three years before the introduction of the first VOC regulations, we decided to set a high bar and go for a 0% VOC label. As a company, we are dedicated to looking for environmentally friendly solutions and strive with the utmost care to provide products with high quality and standards.Rubio Monocoat is the first in the wood treatment sector to get the Eurofins Indoor Air Comfort Gold label. Eurofins Indoor Air Comfort Gold is a sign of our focus on quality and contribution to a healthy indoor environment. The label combines the most relevant emission specifications and requirements in one certification. The Indoor Air Comfort Gold label shows compliance with specifications on VOC emissions set out globally. As well as having these incredible certificates to our name, our products are also food safe and toy friendly. We also have the M1 Emission Class for Building Material certification and are EPD (Environmental Product Declaration) certified, meaning we are transparent with the information surrounding the life-cycle and environmental impact of our products. Why are Rubio Monocoat launching on NBS?At Rubio Monocoat, we know architects could benefit from everything our oils have to offer from staining and protecting cladding, to refreshing interior wood panelling. It’s an industry we have only just touched the surface of, but with our environmental credentials, efficient application process and high quality finish, we know we’d be a great addition to any wooden project.With NBS, architects are able to browse our environmentally friendly interior and exterior products, read case studies from all over the world and locate all our certifications, literature on safety, and technical data sheets. It's also the perfect place to keep up with projects from around the globe to find inspiration. This is a huge step for Rubio Monocoat into a market that we've always highly valued and we look forward to providing architects and specifiers with expert advice on our 0% VOC products. Are you interested in a workshop near you?We’re looking to hold workshops for architects and specifiers who want to learn everything about what Rubio Monocoat can offer them and their projects. These will involve demos and the chance to get hands-on. If you’re interested, please register here, making sure to state the town you’d like us to come to: https://form.jotform.com/221983606853363You can contact our Business Development Manager Derek at consult@rubiomonocoat.com for more information or a demonstration on our products, and see us live on NBS now: https://nbs.fyi/gwuq8i

Union Industries, the UK’s leading manufacturer of bespoke industrial doors, has utilised virtual reality (VR) to help Leeds-based Met Fab Solutions maintain comfortable working conditions with the installation of a Bulldoor.Union Industries has successfully deployed its innovative new VR software to assist Met Fab Solutions, a leading UK manufacturer of aluminium panels and aluminium pressings, specify and configure the correct door suited to its needs.This innovative tool allows Union to immerse prospective clients in a 3D showroom where they can experience their high-speed door offerings and interact with the products in a virtual environment. The software, comprising a VR headset and handheld units representing the customer’s hands, showcases the extensive features, specifications and benefits of Union Industries' products.Met Fab’s powder coating facility contains an extraction unit which draws the temperature outside of the building to keep the area cool during hotter periods. However, when windy, the extraction unit causes a wind-chill resulting in employee discomfort, hence the company’s need for a fast acting and reliable door.The Bulldoor not only ensures the integrity of Met Fab's facility but also significantly reduces the impact of adverse weather conditions. Operated conveniently via remote control, the door incorporates a 'Crash-Out & Auto-Reset' feature as a standard safety measure, minimising costs associated with door impacts.Renowned for their reliability and efficiency, Union Industries’ doors, including the Bulldoor, have become the preferred choice for manufacturers dealing with heat loss and escalating energy prices. With a robust design requiring minimal maintenance, these doors can withstand constant high-volume operations, making them an ideal solution for industrial settings.Rob Howe, Union Industries’ Technical Sales Engineer, said: “Once again, the Bulldoor is the first choice for those in the manufacturing industry who aim to address heat loss and wind chill through open doorways.”“The Bulldoor is one of our best-selling doors and has been developed by our own R&D team over the years to become the reliable workhorse that it is today. Its robust design ensures minimal maintenance and can withstand constant high-volume operations.”“We are also thrilled with the success of our new virtual reality configuration tool. This software enables us to immerse prospective customers into our world, providing a first-hand experience of the advanced features and capabilities of our rapid roll doors.”Steve Cockerham, managing director at Met Fab Solutions, said: "The collaboration with Union Industries has proven invaluable in addressing our specific needs.“In utilising the VR software, Union was able to demonstrate to us in detail how the Bulldoor was best placed to serve our specific needs and address the challenges we faced.“The Bulldoor has not only enhanced the integrity of our facility but has also significantly improved working conditions for our employees."

Gloucester Transport Hub Bauder Thermofol PVC single ply waterproofing system SynopsisThe replacement bus station and regeneration of the surrounding area has created a unique and distinctive city centre building for the town. The design connects with Gloucester’s Roman heritage and association with aviation. The innovative roof design incorporated a canopy intended to reflect an aircraft wing that required a lightweight waterproofing and renewable energy photovoltaic (PV) solution.Bauder Building BoardProject:Gloucester Bus StationLocation:GloucesterProject Type:RefurbishmentRoof Size:1520m²Constructor: Kier Group PlcApproved Contractor:Kovara Projects LtdThe specificationThe Bauder Thermofol PVC single ply waterproofing system with the BauderSOLAR F PV solution met the brief precisely without compromising the aesthetics of the roof. This combination of Thermofol PVC single ply waterproofing system and BauderSOLAR F PV delivered a high quality, strong, energy efficient flat roof.This system was selected for the project because of its lightweight properties which complemented the deck and roof design. Light grey was chosen to reflect the colour of the cladding as the aesthetics was a key objective for the client.The OMG Rhinobond induction welding system was specified as the installation method which provided multiple advantages to the project, not only saving time and fasteners, but also optimising the field fix pattern of installation and ensuring that the load on the roof was spread between the induction welding plates. Products appliedBauder Thermofol U15 FR MembraneA high grade virgin polymer Thermofol PVC membrane ensures the optimum membrane characteristics to deliver high performance and a BBA stated life expectancy in excess of 35 years.BauderSOLAR F An aerodynamically optimised system for flat roofs using framed modules and mounting units, securing them to the roof using membrane-to-membrane welding techniques. This installation method means that the roof is not compromised by penetrations of fasteners or is it ballasted.Project challengesThe design of the Transport Hub and city centre location proved to be the key challenge to this project. The unusual roof configuration required a bespoke insulation scheme using BauderPIR M, an efficient rebated PIR insulation board, in order to achieve the required U-value of 0.18W/M²K.The deck configuration equally made the installation of the Bauder Thermofol PVC waterproofing system complex with the perimeter zone having to be carefully marked in compatability the wind calculation which included measuring factors such as wind speed, altitude, direction and exposure. Bauder and Kovara Projects were required to work closely together to ensure all criteria of the wind calculations were met. 40 modules of the lightweight BauderSOLAR PV solution were installed on the west side of the Transport Hub’s roof.The location of the project, Gloucester city centre, presented logistical challenges. Delivery of the roofing products had to be carefully scheduled and managed to avoid creating congestion in the area.The resultThe installation required constant co-operation and communication to embrace the live site operations within the restricted city centre location whilst allowing the bus station to remain fully functional. The roofing contractor delivered a superior standard solution and any complex issues that arose during the project were resolved promptly and collaboratively.System installedBauderThermofol PVC single ply waterproofing system  1 Bauder THERMOFOL U15 FR1.5mm polyvinyl chloride membrane (PVC) reinforced with a pre-coated polyester cross-weaved matting for mechanically fixed installations. 2 BauderPIR MThis efficient tissue-faced flatboard insulation has been specially developed for use within Bauder single ply systems. 3 BauderSYN DB-PE 100A blue, polyethylene air and vapour control layer. The product is installed by loose laying and suitable for Thermofol mechanically fastened and ballasted single ply systems.

Manual handling plays a large part in a whole host of industries, from construction to healthcare. But, lifting and carrying heavy loads can be dangerous if all of the relevant regulations aren’t followed, the conditions are less than ideal, or staff aren’t trained to carry out manual handling tasks in the safest way possible.To help employers fulfil all of their responsibilities and ensure workers know exactly how to keep themselves and others safe, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to manual lifting. It explains everything from what is classed as manual handling to the ways you can reduce how much manual handling your work requires and reducing the chances of manual handling injuries. Read on to learn more.

Lang+Fulton were asked to supply louvred screening to provide shelter and a visual barrier for the café and outdoor pool areas at the Portavadie Marina Resort. A 2.5m high screen of Italia-100 panels was installed to provide 100% visual screening. The louvres have a free area of 29%, which helps to reduce wind loading, but, in order to cope with potential storm force conditions, the RHS posts were specially designed in accordance with BS EN 1991-1-4. A store area for bins and a secure compound for service plant fored an additional part of the contract. The steel louvres were polyester powder coated in a muted grey (RAL 7015) to a marine grade standard of finish to blend with the surroundings and withstand the harsh coastal climate.

Ground source review: Ullenwood Court, Churcham HomesA development of large luxury family homes in the heart of the Cotswold countryside is being built with sustainability in mind by property developer Churcham Homes. Once complete, all 26 contemporary properties, located within 34 acres of stunning countryside, will feature innovative ground source technology that produces zero emissions or air pollution.Key FactsPrivate, new build development13kW & 15kW Kensa Evo GSHPs52 x boreholes between 141m – 227m deepHeating, hot water and coolingAnnual heating load 672,099 kWhHigh spec, luxury new buildsUp to 6,547sq ft

Whitburn Partnership Centre was designed by Project Architects, Matthew Fair, Neil Forrester and Jamie Bateman at Smith Scott Mullan Associates for West Lothian Council. The design of the contemporary £4M building restores the historic Whitburn Burgh Hall original façade as it is one of the towns most renowned buildings and incorporates a new-build two-storey extension.Located in the centre of Whitburn, this building is a community hub that embraces the West Lothian Council’s model of bringing together services that benefit local communities whilst delivering financial efficiencies through the decrease of council buildings. This building facilitates a library, community halls, museum and customer information service office, making it an important community resource. Project:Whitburn Partnership CentreProject type:New buildLocation:West Lothian, Scotland,Waterproofing:Bauder Total Roof System (BTRS)Roof size: 525m2Energy generated from PV array: 10.35kWp Specifier: Smith Scott Mullan AssociatesMain Contractor: Maxi ConstructionApproved contractor: ProCladd (Scotland) LimitedSolar PV installer: Intelligent Electrical SolutionsThe specificationTo support the West Lothian Council's sustainability objectives of achieving high energy efficiency, it was our responsibility to specify a waterproofing system and provide a solution for natural energy generation. The bituminous Bauder Total Roof System (BTRS) was chosen for this project as it features membranes that can withstand impact and tearing, as well as thermal insulation that met the required U-value of 0.15 W/m²K. This waterproofing system is verified by the BBA and offers a service life in excess of 35 years.The BauderSOLAR system was also specified, as it incorporates photovoltaic arrays for natural energy generation. The photovoltaic mounting system is attached to the roof without penetration of waterproofing or the deck, safeguarding the integrity of the waterproofing to fulfil its full-service life.Project challengesThe Architect’s design incorporated unusually high parapet upstands, which posed a challenge for installers. Area technical manager for Bauder, Christopher Langton, attended design meetings with the Architects and Main Contractor to discuss the best solution for installation. A mutual agreement was made for the underlayer to be mechanically fixed to prevent any slippage of the capping sheet membrane. Due to the height of the upstand, non-combustible insulation BauderROCK was incorporated into the design at these details.The installation of BauderSOLAR F uses prefabricated bituminous BauderK5K membrane sleeves to slip over the mounting plates and welded into position, anchoring the plates to the surface of the Bauder waterproofing system. Approved BauderSOLAR installers, Intelligent Electrical Solutions, installed the BauderSOLAR system, collaborating with ProCladd, approved contractor for the waterproofing installation, and other trades during the roof installation.There is a junction where the flat roof meets the original slate roof of the adjacent building, this detail fell under the torch free zone that hot air welding techniques are used to install the membranes within these areas.The resultInstallation of the Bauder waterproofing system may only be carried out by trained and certified operatives approved by Bauder. A project pre-start meeting was held by Bauder site technician, Duncan Hastings, and area technical manager, Christopher Langton inviting the Site Manager from Procladd and their Bauder badged operatives. During this meeting, they discussed the installation of the project, and identified the areas that required torch-free and torch-safe detailing. They also discussed how the project was going to be delivered in co-ordination with other trades working on the site at the same time, for example cladding and lead that was installed atop the waterproofing upstand details.Weekly site-inspections were carried out by Bauder site technician, Duncan Hastings during the project. Visiting the site frequently meant that Duncan could provide consistent support to the installers and answer any questions they may have had directly. It also meant that the quality of the roof installation was being monitored regularly to ensure it would be to a high standard, achieving the comprehensive guarantee.The approach taken to deliver this project on time and to budget was through meticulous planning and working to tight time frames. The organisation of the delivery of Bauder products to site had to be in line with the schedule to ensure that the site was ready to receive a delivery. With the project located in the busy centre of Whitburn next to a cross junction with traffic lights. This meant that timed delivery of products to site was required in addition to prebooked off-loading by pump truck and tail lift or by telehandler.Health, safety and environment was managed during the planning, design and installation of this project by advising that all installers follow the advice shown in the “Responsible Specification Checklist” produced by the National Federation of Roofing Contractors.In accordance with the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, roof edge protection in the form of scaffolding was installed during installation. The project’s perimeters were surrounded by Heras fencing to isolate the construction site from the public. All scaffolds that were on the elevation next to the public had toe boarding and safety mesh where required.As standard, there was a one-hour Firewatch after the Bauder membranes have been installed using a gas torch. This was carried out by Procladd operatives each day when they were working on the project to ensure the welfare of the workforce, and the safety of other trades and that of the building. The 19kg gas cylinders were used on this project as they are easily transportable on the roof area. At the end of each working day, the cylinders were stored in a locked and designated gas storage unit on site.System installedBauder Total Roof System (BTRS)1 BauderK5KElastomeric bitumen torch-on capping sheet in charcoal grey. This product features a spunbond polyester reinforcement to allow the finished product to cope with structural movement without fracture, and a mineral finish to provide protection against UV degradation.2 BauderTEC KSA DUOA self-adhesive, elastomer bitumen underlayer. This product features distinctive technology for lap sealing.3 BauderPIR FA-TE flatboard insulationA rigid polyurethane foam board faced on both sides with aluminium foil.4 BauderTHERM DS 1 DUOA self-adhesive, elastomer bitumen air & vapour control layer.

Derbigum + BluRoof = Sustainable Drainage Solutions Mitigate your risks with Alumasc BluRoofs Think Stormwater Management - Derbigum BluRoof SolutionsA 5-minute hop from Cardiff Queen Street and you’ll find the first blue roof in Wales. Upon what was formerly 1960’s office accommodation the Cromwell House site has been transformed into an 8 storey, 120-bedroom easyHotel with a rooftop stormwater management system. OUR DESIGN PROCESSOur clients at Carter Lauren Construction were interested in learning about the benefits of a blue roof to meet planning conditions. ” Working in a compact city centre environment where ground attenuation was not possible, it made sense to install a blue roof. The Alumasc team demonstrated how their BluRoof System attenuates stormwater via controlled discharge over a 24-hour period at roof level.” Kevin Jenkins, Surveying Director, Carter Lauren Construction. CLIENT BRIEF AND DESIGNWorking closely with the appointed consulting engineer and architect, our team of technical experts designed a solution for stormwater attenuation to comply with planning and meet all other project objectives. Alumasc’s Matt Davies, Area Technical Manager - Mid, West & South Wales commented, “Given the urban location, the Alumasc BluRoof system was the perfect fit in providing a fully warranted single-source waterproofing and sustainable drainage solution.”The Alumasc technical team provided a full specification service and specialist drainage design using key data from the project brief. By incorporating our BBA Accredited Derbigum APP polymer modified bituminous waterproofing system the longevity of the total solution is assured with a proven track record since 1967. Other key components comprise of a BluRoof geotextile filter fabric, BluRoof interlocking void former, flow control outlets, and overflow system.ENVIRONMENTALLY FOCUSSED SOLUTIONExtreme weather events are now the new normal, says the World Meteorological Organisation. Our rainfall patterns are becoming increasingly unpredictable, and we must plan accordingly to adapt the built environment to help alleviate flood risk. PARTNERSHIPWorking with the contractor to construct the first blue roof in Wales. Kevin Jenkins, Surveying Director, Carter Lauren Construction, “Matt and the Alumasc team were available throughout the design and installation process. We knew that installing the BluRoof by Alumasc was the right decision for the future of the easyHotel and the benefit to reduce pressure off the drains.” SAFETY PERFORMANCEThe easyHotel has a 35-year warranty for the works and life expectancy of up to 50 years.ABOUTEasy Hotel Cromwell House, Cardiff - Wales’s first blue roof. Completion: Spring 2021 Main Contractor: Carter Lauren Construction Architect: Axiom Architects 

Cottrell + Vermeulen Architecture has designed new, bright and airy postgraduate accommodation for Churchill College, Cambridge with interiors featuring Junckers’ solid maple flooring. Cottrell + Vermeulen won a competition to design the new buildings, 16 years after the studio completed a housing scheme on a neighbouring site. The 35 new units of accommodation comprise five studio flats and 30 en suite rooms with spacious communal areas on each floor, spread across three buildings. The design builds on the original architectural scheme, designed as an extension to CVA’s previous work on the site. The architects sought to recreate the warmth and brightness of the original college rooms from the 1960s and found Junckers maple flooring a good match. The choice of two-strip boards, where two staves of wood make up one floorboard, was also a reference to the narrow boards used in the original rooms. The naturally pale tone of the maple floor is matched by joinery in birch faced plywood to form a comfortable and welcoming space, ready for students to move into at the start of the new academic year. The floor was installed by VA Hutchison Flooring. Quiet floors in multiple occupancy buildings An important consideration for student accommodation is how impact sound travels through floors from one dwelling into another. Building regulations set out minimum standards for impact and airborne sound through floors which apply to residential buildings and buildings converted to new uses, including hotels and care homes. The floor finish will usually act in combination with other elements of the building to achieve the target levels of sound insulation. The design of the subfloor and ceiling beneath play an important role, as does the way the floor finish may need to be isolated from the walls that surround it, but there is no question that the right acoustic floor will control the transmission of impact sound. Junckers has a range of acoustics systems available which comply with building regulations. The newly updated New Era acoustic system is a height adjustable system for use on structural concrete slabs, block and beam floors and almost any other type of sound, dry load-bearing base. The New Era system uses acoustic cradles with 10mm thick recycled rubber pads, factory-fitted to the underside. The cradles are height adjustable using purpose-made packers, supporting laminated timber battens. 50mm thick mineral wool insulation is placed between the battens and Junckers 20.5mm or 22mm thick solid wood floorboards are fixed to the battens to complete the installation. The use of 36mm thick battens achieves an impact sound reduction of 27dB; and a 48mm thick batten achieves an impact sound reduction of 28dB, thus complying with building regulations. For Junckers 14mm thick solid wood flooring installed with Junckers’ Clip System, an impact sound reduction of 19dB can be achieved with Junckers’ 5mm thick CA2 Acoustic Underlay, loose laid with the floorboards installed on top as a floating layer, no fixings required. Junckers’ floor system specifications are available on NBS Plus and draft NBS clauses are available on request. Junckers also provides BIM Objects for all systems. Junckers solid hardwood floor systems are guaranteed for 25 years when installed by a Junckers Approved Contractor. Junckers Approved Maintenance Contractors offer a care scheme where the client’s floor is periodically inspected and maintained so as to keep floor in good condition and to  maximise its lifespan.

CHALLENGE The first of its kind for Quebec, the “living street” required a paving grid that would provide multi-purpose access along the street whilst also allowing for the aesthetically pleasing natural look to be maintained. A woonerf is a living street that is traditionally implemented as a traffic calming aid and to enforce low speed limit areas. They are often shared space streets where equal priority is given to all modes of transportation including automobiles, bicycles and pedestrians; usually with separate rights of way. The province of Quebec was looking to do a “pilot project” in the city of Montreal to create a woonerf that would not only provide the required access, including disabled access but that would also have a long-lasting beneficial impact on the environment. They were looking for an environmentally friendly ground reinforcement product which would provide the strength and durability required for a heavily used area. As a “living street”, the product needed to allow the growth of natural vegetation and contain no harmful preservatives which could affect the environment in which it is placed. The harsh weather conditions in Quebec also needed to be considered. With such extreme conditions in both winter and summer, the material needed to withstand the temperature fluctuations. Ground reinforcement products traditionally used such as concrete are susceptible to cold crack in winter as it is a porous material. As a requirement, the desired product was to absorb only limited heat in order to promote growing vegetation. The only suitable material for a project with such challenging conditions was hanit®’s recycled plastic heavy duty ground girds, with their durability and environmental credentials meeting the requirements.SOLUTIONhanit®’s Heavy Duty Ground Grids are manufactured from a blend of high-quality recycled plastic polyolefins extracted from post-industrial and post-consumer mixed waste plastics. Heavy Duty Ground Grids have a high impact resistance which makes them suitable for all vehicle access. They have an interlocking system which improves stability and also allows for quick and simple installation. As the woonerf needed to provide numerous different access levels it was important that the Heavy Duty Ground Grids were versatile. They can be filled with either grass, seed/topsoil or gravel. For this project, wheelchair access was provided through a gravel filled pathway.The rest of the “living street” was mostly completed with grass filled areas. As hanit® products transfer limited amounts of heat, they dry out the soil less than concrete. This works as a benefit to the vegetation growing through the grids. Recycled plastic material is not porous and therefore does not absorb any moisture. This gives added benefits in the winter as when absorbed moisture freezes in concrete it causes cold crack. Their open structure also allows for quick infiltration of any rainwater into the ground allowing for sustainable urban drainage requirements to be met.hanit® Heavy Duty Ground Grids are strong and durable and require no maintenance. They are not affected by weathering and decay; therefore once in place, they have a much longer lifespan than any other competing products. Made from 100% recycled material, the woonerf has been an extremely sustainable project. Providing Montreal with a living street has not only added more vegetation to the area but also allows the city to contribute to an environmentally responsible sustainable urban drainage solution. As the products are chemically inert they do not affect the environment and are harmless to all flora and fauna. In total the project has used 8,500 units of Heavy Duty Ground Grids. This equates to almost 77 tonnes of recycled plastic waste which has been saved from going to landfill. The woonerf has been an extremely well celebrated project that has won prizes for its conception and green initiatives. “I recommend Les Dalles Vertes (Heavy Duty Ground Grids) to all my clients. We laid out nearly 30,000 square feet of these pavers for the Woonerf project and it took us half the time and resources that were required to install the old concrete grass pavers." - Tony Scirocco, Ventec

German online retailer improves its distribution centre performanceLödige Industries equips distribution centre with 12 goods lifts in 3 yearsOver a period of three years, Lödige Industries has delivered 12 SHERPA goods lifts to a newly built distribution centre in use of a German online retailer. The customer required a solution which would guarantee high throughput and availability together with compact construction. After installing nine SHERPA goods lifts in 2013, the customer decided to install two more SHERPA in 2015 and one in 2016. How does the customer benefit from relying on SHERPA goods lifts?Save spaceThe customer needed a compact lifting solution. Altogether four different elevator sizes were installed for this customer. The sizes fit the different pallets and picking trolleys, which the customer is using. Additional space was gained by reducing the floor space of some SHERPA freight elevators. Pallets and picking trolleys are moved efficiently and without disturbances between levels.Structural conditions do not complicate the installation of the SHERPA as the motor is located in the head room. Moreover, the control cabinet can be positioned remotly from the lift. Access for maintenance is provided via a maintenance gap above the upper door to the shaft head room. The area around the lifts can thus be used for other purposes.Flexible integration12 SHERPA goods lifts in total had to be optimally positioned. The foundations of the hall supports and the hall ceiling girders had to be taken into account. The Lödige SHERPA comes with a free-standing shaft structure and hence it does not require any rack modifications. By using 80 mm high ramps, it was possible to dispense with shaft pits for the SHERPA freight elevators. As a result, the freight elevators could be optimally positioned without any structural changes, thus achieving a high degree of flexibility for integration into the racking systems.High throughputMore importantly, the customer required a solution that offers a high throughput. Usually, goods lifts have a transportation speed of 0,2m/s. The 12 SHERPA goods lifts at this project offer a maximum transportation speed of 0,4m/s. This means, the lifting frequency for the customer was doubled.Challenges for the online retailer in doubling frequencyTaking structural conditions of the existing rack warehouse into account, as no change to the racks and building itself can be madeTransport of pallets and picking trolleys in different sizesDifferent lifting capacities and lifting heights necessaryIncreasing throughput of goods over several levels of the rack warehouseSolution from Lödige and benefits for the customerSHERPA goods lifts come with a free-standing shaft and no need for a pitCompact construction by installing goods lifts in two customized sizes, lifting capacities and heightsDoubled lifting speed of 04,4m/s leading to high throughput

The developer of the new build flats was Jensco Holdings Ltd and the main contractor was Clegg Construction. The design, manufacture and installation of the windows on the project was undertaken by Profile 22 Approved Window Contractor Kingfisher Windows. As a member of the Approved Window Contractors Scheme, Kingfisher has demonstrated a wealth of experience in the management of large contract supply and installation and working proactively towards on-time and on-budget completion. The company’s track record was one of the factors that saw Kingfisher secure the window contract for Agard Court through competitive tender.

Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf is a tourist attraction at Bournemouth Beach. The 18 hole course is part of Bournemouth’s famous seafront, which has over 7 million visitors per year. For safety purposes, it was necessary to fit Stair Nosings onto a fire exit staircase at the site.

Granite Exchange offers serviced office space to businesses and individuals. Companies can lease meeting rooms, private offices, or shared desk areas to operate from. The ultra-modern design and high specification facilities in Granite Exchange are ideal for businesses who want to offset high property rates while maintaining a sleek and professional outlook.

Prestigious Bradley Hall Golf Club is located in over 60 acres of picturesque parkland in central Yorkshire. Golf was first played here in 1906 and considerable investment was spent converting the old house into an outstanding club house. Recently the golf club had a major building upgrade but still retained the quality that had been set up all those years ago. As part of this refurbishment the central entrance of the golf club required an impressive eye catching finish to their traditional style Victorian staircase with a unique large curved bottom step.

Clapham ParkBauder Total Green Roof System (BTGRS) with BauderSOLAR G LIGHTSynopsisThe regeneration at Clapham Park involved the demolition of old housing stock to make way for new affordable homes. The 5-storey building with 21 dwellings incorporating the latest rooftop technology which blends a biodiverse green roof and unified solar PV array. This approach met the planning requirements and maximised the limited roof space to generate energy for the residents. The development was certified BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ due to its environmental, economic and social sustainability attributes.Bauder Building BoardProject:Clapham ParkLocation:Clapham Park, Lambeth, LondonRoof Area:500m² green roof layered with 116m² of PVSpecifier:PJMA Architects​Approved Contractor:EJ Roberts Ltd​PV Installer:M & M Electrical LtdThe specification The BauderSOLAR G LIGHT system has National House Building Control (NHBC) approval and meets local authority building control (LABC) requirements. The system was installed on zero falls roof deck, making it a very cost-effective solution.The biodiverse green roof which includes 35 plant species recognised by the RHS as Perfect for Pollinators, covers the totality of the roof area and offers a large variety of vegetation. The building reduces its carbon impact with the highly efficient PIR insulation and generates approximatively 10% of the flats usage with a maximum possible output of 75kWp from the 70 PV modules. The solar PV mounting units are ballasted by the substrate and vegetation, removing the need for any penetrating products in the waterproofing.Products appliedBauder Total Green Roof SystemThis system features a reinforced bituminous waterproofing system offering a service life expectancy in excess of 40 years.BauderSOLAR G LIGHTThe integration of a green roof and photovoltaics into one system drawing the maximum potential from a flat roof.BauderGREEN Flora Seed MixesA blend of 49 British native species seed, to maximise diversity of vegetation on green roofs.Project challengesOne of the major challenges of the project was the roof area, which at only 500m² needed to include a green roof and a renewable energy system to meet the main objectives of sustainability and energy efficiency of the development highlighted by the planning committee. The roof contributed towards requirements under National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) Chapter 11: Conserving and enhancing the natural environment and The London Plan 2011 Policy 5.2 – Minimising Carbon Dioxide Emissions, Policy 5.3 – Sustainable Design and Construction and Policy 5.7 – Renewable Energy. The green roof is layered with a raised PV array so that the entire roof qualifies as a green roof whilst also providing energy generation.System installedBauder Total Green Roof System (BTGRS)1 BauderPLANT EA torch-applied, root resistant capping sheet. The product features chemically treated bitumen to deliver superior root resistance which has been tested and approved by the FLL. The membrane is reinforced with 250g/m² spunbond polyester fleece to allow the finished product to cope with structural movement without fracture.2 BauderTEC KSA DUOA self-adhesive bitumen underlayer with “DUO” lap technology to ensure thorough sealing of lap joints, even in lower temperatures. 3 BauderPIR FA-TEFlatboard insulation used on the lantern roof area to help meet its U-value of 0.15W/m²K. 4 BauderTEC KSD FBSA self-adhesive SBS elastomeric bitumen air & vapour control layer, with a mica finished upper surface to allow easy bonding of insulation using the specified Bauder insulation adhesive.

Central M40, a 70 acre industrial estate situated off J11 of the M40 in Banbury, comprises six warehouses totalling over 1 million sq ft of accommodation – equivalent to roughly 17 football pitches. The estate was developed speculatively by db Symmetry*, who specified CA Group’s robust Twin-Therm® Built-up Roof and Wall systems.A key component of the Twin-Therm® building envelope system is Therma-Quilt, a bespoke high-performance Glass Mineral Wool insulation. It is manufactured by Knauf Insulation specifically for CA Group and is the result of a long standing partnership between the two companies.Therma-Quilt is ideally suited for non-residential cladding applications. It offers outstanding performance and functionality available in different thicknesses to support the Twin-Therm® system, delivering enhanced thermal U-values as low as 0.09W/m2K. It is non-combustible with a Euroclass A1 Reaction to Fire Classification, meaning it will not contribute to the development or the spread of a fire.Therma-Quilt is also a high-performing acoustic insulation. In Twin-Therm® roof applications, it helps reduce the drumming effect of rainwater, while in Twin-Therm® wall applications, it aids with sound reduction and can minimise the reverberation of internal sound when used in conjunction with perforated metal liner sheets. Therma-Quilt has been developed with water resistance in mind and uses materials that help prevent water ingress.The Twin-Therm® system has been designed with sustainability in mind and Therma-Quilt is no exception. Knauf Insulation’s Glass Mineral Wool products contain up to 80% recycled materials. This saves on virgin raw materials and energy demands, cuts carbon emissions, and reduces waste going to landfill.It is manufactured with ECOSE® Technology, Knauf Insulation's unique bio-based binder that contains no added formaldehyde or phenol. It is made from natural raw materials that are rapidly renewable and is 70% less energy-intensive to manufacture than traditional binder, so it is more environmentally-friendly.Products made with ECOSE® Technology are soft to touch and easy to handle. They generate low levels of dust and VOCs and have been awarded the Eurofins Gold Certificate for Indoor Air Comfort.In total, more than 70 tonnes of Therma-Quilt insulation were used on the six megasheds on the Central M40 development. While the industrial estate was built speculatively, its strategic location has previously attracted premium occupiers including Hellofresh, Prodrive Motorsport, TVS Supply Chain Solutions and Rinkit.Thanks to the Twin-Therm® system with its Therma-Quilt insulation, the warehouses have achieved BREEAM ‘Very Good’ ratings, while the businesses using them will enjoy more comfortable, warmer and safer working environments – and lower energy costs. *db Symmetry has rebranded as Tritax Symmetry

CHALLENGEAn ambitious project, and one of the first certified PassivHaus homes in the UK - the Denby Dale PassivHaus in West Yorkshire, had to to use 90% less energy for space heating than the average UK dwelling – with a space heating need of only 15 kWh/m2/ year. The three-bedroom property is the first UK Passivhaus to be built in a traditional style using cavity wall construction and had to be built to a tight budget of £141,000.SOLUTION“We decided to go down the cavity wall path and arrived at the design for several reasons including: planning restrictions, thermal store, cost, and maybe most important of all, buildability,” explains Bill Butcher, Project Leader.Excellent performing insulation is obviously fundamental to Passivhaus construction and the Denby Dale house has 300mm Knauf Insulation DriTherm® Cavity Slab 32 in the walls, 500mm Knauf Insulation Loft Roll 44 in the roof void (both of which incorporate ECOSE® Technology) along with 225mm of high-performing Polyfoam® Floorboard Standard* insulation in the floor.“We’re fully filling the cavity with glass mineral wool insulation for the walls above ground, because it helps minimise air movement in the cavity and offers greater flexibility, fitting snugly around the ties, openings and imperfections of the masonry surface.” comments Bill Butcher.Economics, performance, availability, ease of fitting and reducing thermal bypass were all among the benefits of the Knauf Insulation products chosen.*No longer sold through Knauf Insulation.BENEFITSGlass Mineral Wool was specified over rigid insulation to ensure a tight thermal fit. Knauf Insulation DriTherm® Cavity Slabs are flexible enough to eliminate air gaps and prevent heat loss due to their inherent ability to knit together at joints between the slabs. If rigid insulation is used and fitted badly with too many gaps, air movement around and between the insulation boards is increased, which can drastically reduce its insulation value.Knauf Insulation DriTherm® Cavity Slabs are BBA Certified for all exposure zones and formally guaranteed for 50 years to prevent the transmission of liquid water from the outer masonry leaf to the inner masonry leaf.In addition to its thermal performance glass mineral wool also has other sustainable features. In manufacture it uses a high content of recycled glass bottles and requires less overall energy consumption than some alternative products, resulting in less carbon emissions. In addition, it can be recycled at the end of a building’s life and has zero GWP and zero ODP. ECOSE® Technology further extends these established green credentials as it is manufactured with 70% less energy than traditional binders and the products contain no dyes or added formaldehyde – providing the ideal solution to the eco-friendly house.

Over several years, multiple attempts had been made by Cornwall Council to repair the Stonewold tiles and recoat the gutter courses at South Petherwin Primary School, to stem the leaks that had continued to affect multiple classrooms across the site.Project management surveying firm, Kendall Kingscott, appointed Technical Manager Justyn Irons, to carry out a thorough condition survey to assess the roof build-up and isolate the source of the leaks. During the investigations, Justyn discovered that the main cause of ingress was caused by the wrong tile type being installed on the low-level pitch of the building. The gutters around the hall were too narrow and often blocked with debris, allowing ingress to flow back under the tiles into the building and directly into the classrooms below.

The £26m Dover District Leisure Centre features the first swimming pool in Kent to be purpose-built to Sport England specifications for a county standard competition swimming pool. Other facilities at the centre include a learner pool with a moveable floor, sports hall, interactive climbing arena, fitness studios, gym, squash courts, outdoor five-a-side 3G pitches, sauna and steam room, café, and 250 parking spaces.SolutionDortek doors are specially designed for wet applications and meet the Sport England design guidance requirements. Dortek access solutions are built to withstand severe temperature variations and damp conditions, they are also bacteria and corrosion-resistant. Their timber free construction means they will not rot, rust or warp even after years of exposure to water and cleaning agents.

Designed by Grafton Architects, Town House is a mixed-use teaching facility at Kingston University. The interior is arranged around a series of interlocking, open plan spaces, where Junckers’ solid hardwood flooring features as part of limited materials palette. Junckers’ 140mm Textured Nordic Oak Classic flooring clads the treads and risers of the imposing staircase in the triple height courtyard, as well as providing a hard-wearing floor surface for seating areas. Junckers’ oak flooring promotes a healthy indoor climate. All-natural, solid hardwood is free of chemical substances which adversely affect indoor air quality. Junckers has completed EPDs for all its floors to aid specification for sustainable and net zero carbon projects. 

Cedral fibre cement cladding has transformed an innovation centre in the heart of Bridgwater that supports ambitious businesses moving into or already working in the low carbon market.The Somerset Energy Innovation Centre (SEIC) houses 30,000 square feet of dynamic office and meeting space, combined with expert support and advice for all businesses. It also offers a flexible range of high quality meeting spaces along with a café and networking area.The newly built workspace has a contemporary and sleek finish, created through the installation of Cedral Click across its entire exterior. Cedral Click was installed by Cedral Select Recognised Installers, Central Cladding Systems Limited.Alex Bowering, Contract Manager at Central Cladding Systems Limited, said: “When we received the project brief by the client we knew straight away we required a building material that would not only create a standout exterior but also have sustainable credentials. Having already worked with Cedral across a multitude of previous projects, we knew that this would be the perfect fit.“We specified Cedral Click in colour Grey as we wanted to create an industrial yet contemporary feel and with the wide range of colours available from Cedral, we were able to work with the client to suggest a number of different shades.” Cedral Click was installed in a vertical style, resulting in a contemporary visual style that was also low maintenance.Alex continued: “A factor that was important to the build was that we needed building materials that were not only sustainable, but also relatively easy to maintain. As the building is a busy office workspace, the client specified that the building needed to look in great condition at all times. Cedral has a minimum life expectancy of 50 years and is resistant to rot and the external elements, which was another great advantage of installing the product.“We are extremely pleased with the outcome of the project, we have been able to create a standout building that we know will stand the test of time and we look forward to installing Cedral on future builds.Cedral Click is the UK’s first and only fibre cement, flush fitting tongue and groove weatherboard material, adding a contemporary appearance to any property through its simple Click Clip System. With a Class A fire performance rating, Cedral is an attractive and durable alternative to traditional cladding materials.