"concrete blocks"

AWARD-WINNING DEVELOPER REAPS BENEFITS OF SPECIFYING MARSHALLS FACING BRICKS FOR WATERSIDE APARTMENTS The use of concrete bricks, supplied by Marshalls Bricks & Masonry, contributed to both cost and schedule control during the construction of a premium waterside apartment development in Birmingham as well as providing sustainability benefits too.Located on a former boat yard site adjacent to the famous Old Birmingham Canal, Ultima at Sherborne Wharf is a premium collection of 87 one and two-bedroom apartments in Birmingham city center.Developed and built by Crest Nicholson, the 10-storey new build was originally specified and approved at the planning stage as clay brick, but looking to meet budgetary and availability requirements, the design team approached Marshalls Bricks & Masonry to seek an alternative solution.With stringent planning guidelines to work to, Marshalls recommended a list of cost effective options closest to those already approved, together with physical sample boards for visual review.The design team selected two facing brick options from the Marshalls Sandstock range. This particular range has the appearance of a waterstruck stock brick but with the benefit of dimensional accuracy to ease construction.The preferred options were the Hampton Stock and Waddon Stock, which were submitted to planning and approved. Requiring a quick turnaround, from initial contact to delivery, 341,000 concrete bricks were delivered within just two months by Marshalls.Most of the apartment block features Hampton Stock, an almost buff red brick, created from using more muted tones of red and orange. This particular brick also features the occasional subtle black brick running sporadically throughout, which helps the brickwork tie-in to the building’s powder-coated balconies, windows and doors.Intermittently, between the storeys, the bricks are stacked vertically, adding subtle design detailing to the building.The scheme also benefits from a sustainability perspective. According to available Environmental Product Declarations, concrete bricks have a lower embodied carbon than clay bricks and are 100% recyclable. Embodied carbon refers to the greenhouse gas emissions arising from the extraction, manufacturing and transportation, installation, maintenance and ultimate disposal of materials. Reducing these emissions will be crucial to mitigate the industry’s impact on climate change.Commenting on Marshalls involvement, Julian Lee, Technical Director at Crest Nicholson said “We initially decided to go with facing bricks from the Marshalls Bricks & Masonry range as they enabled us to come within budget while still allowing us to get the colour we wanted for the site. After working with the concrete bricks, we found they worked really well with the added benefit of the sustainability access that comes with them. The Marshalls Bricks & Masonry team came to site to work with us, and the site bricklayers to overcome any questions or concerns. All in all, the building appearance with these bricks finishes well.”

The MultiFence PAS 68 can stop a 7.5-tonne truck at both 30mph and 40mph. It has been designed to mitigate the security risks at all sites of critical importance, using leading industry technologies to combat attacks by vehicles.It combines the attributes of our standard system with additional testing to ensure it meets the stringent quality standards relating to vehicle restraint systems of BS EN 1317 Part 2. It can be used on both soft and hard ground.Featuring TVCB blocks approved by the Highways Agency for use, it is ideal for security applications at major events, as below-ground foundations are not required.Our RDS PAS68 crash fence system consists of panels and posts installed and removed within minutes. The system uses an RDS block with the appropriate post arrangement. Our RDS PAS68 fence system has been crash-tested and rated to BSI PAS68:2010 standard. This means it can stop 2.5-tonne and 7.5-tonne vehicles.The system provides the product attributes normally only found in permanent installations. In addition, its simple deployment means the on-site disruption usually associated with installing and removing a fence line is kept to a minimum.Zaun also supplied our HiSec 358 anti-climb mesh fencing to combat the issue of intruders being able to scale the fence.InnovationCPNI and the Government were concerned about the threat of a ladder or other climbing aids used to lean against CCTV columns, making it easier to scale the fencing and gain entry into the secure area.Zaun’s solution was to create a number seven style CCTV column and base, which is completely self-supported and mobile and sits back from the fence line. Zaun’s design team created an innovative CCTV column featuring a unique number seven shape. This design meant the CCTV column would project over and outside the fence line, providing excellent visibility and obliterating the external climbing aid threat. The column was constructed from a custom-rolled, lightweight profile; it was also very easily installed on-site. The unique design also included a concrete base comprising a folded steel shell filled with concrete poured on-site. It incorporated forklift holes, ensuring the base is mobile and relocatable easily using a forklift or Moffatt on site.At the top of the base, a fixing system was designed, which allowed the columns to be attached and pivoted and then subsequently raised into the upright position with ease. This system allowed the CCTV installers to mount their cameras and other equipment to the top of the column at ground level before raising the column into place and negates the need for Mobile Elevating Work Platforms or MEWP’s.Zaun designed and manufactured more than 700 CCTV columns and bases to be used at the Commonwealth Games and are deployable for other events.

Project BriefThe James Dyson Building and the Dyson Centre for Engineering Design at the University of Cambridge officially opened in May 2016.The technology hub was designed by Nicholas Hare Architects and funded in part by a £8m donation from the James Dyson Foundation, and will give some of the world's brightest young engineering students access to advanced laboratories.The Department’s priorities were for a low-energy building (targeting 100kWh/m2/annum total) that would showcase the state-of-the-art work of the Department and be sustainable.The ProjectThe James Dyson Building is located within the Cambridge Central Conservation Area and is also adjacent to the Grade II listed Royal Cambridge Hotel. Care was taken with both the scale and materiality of the building which was closely scrutinized by the Cambridge Design and Conservation Panel.The James Dyson Building provides flexible and highly energy-efficient research, seminar and meeting spaces for post-graduate students at the University of Cambridge’s Department of Engineering.Linked by an atrium to the existing Department buildings, the new facility is located on a prominent and sensitive site within a conservation area and at a major gateway into Cambridge.Much of the concrete frame of the building is exposed internally to assist in maintaining thermal stability and natural ventilation is encouraged using a series of chimneys running through the building.Research groups worked with the contractor to incorporate active stress sensing of the concrete frame and low-carbon, magnesium blocks were also used in the build.A large proportion of the construction cost was met through a generous donation by The Dyson Foundation.Help from Tarmac - Limelite Heritage Lime MortarWe supplied Limelite Heritage Hydraulic Lime Mortar in bulk bags & 25kg bags to the new James Dyson Building in Cambridge. The product was a pure hydraulic lime bedding masonry mortar M2.5 but due to its versatility, durability and sustainability met all the requirements of the architects. This lime mortar is ideal for projects such as this one because it is a cement-free product and so recreates an appearance in keeping with the history of the adjacent buildings with a modern aspectOutcomesThe James Dyson Building for Engineering will support world leading research in areas including advanced materials, smart infrastructure and electric vehicles. Fibre-optic sensors in the foundation, piles, columns and floor feed back live data, about temperature and strain – providing a picture of how the building is behaving. The result is a building that’s more of a living creature than a passive block of material: we can ask the building how it’s feeling, and the building can reply.The Dyson Centre for Engineering Design will teach students about the design process – and provide space for over 1,200 undergraduate engineers to conduct their research."This new space for Britain’s best engineers at the University of Cambridge will catalyse great technological breakthroughs that transform how we live."Sir James DysonAWARDSRegional Finalist: Civic Trust AwardShortlisted: RIBA East AwardShortlisted: RICS Award - Design Through Innovation

Fed up of renting in London, Joe and Lina decided to build their own on a tiny 38m² plot of land in East London. With a budget of just under £200k they set about delivering Joe’s innovative concept for a six half-floor house with floating concrete slab, designed to maximise the space into a 83m² home, all whilst being filmed by Channel 4’s Grand Designs. However, things soon went south…Within weeks of the project beginning in October 2015, rogue contractors had performed a disastrous basement excavation attempt contrary to the Structural Engineer’s instructions, leaving unsupported banks of earth falling in beneath the street and shutters bursting inwards under the weight of the concrete.This first attempt, described as “spectacularly shambolic” by Kevin McCloud, more than doubled Joe and Lina’s budget for the excavation from £48k to £100k, and caused months of delays in order to get the project back on track.Having already contacted Newton Waterproofing Systems to consult on the poor workmanship, Joe and Newton soon determined that if he were to save his home and get it out of the ground, he would need a specialist contractor to actively communicate, collaborate and listen to him as both the engineer and client.MJ Rooney Construction came on board as contractors in November 2015, and following discussions to determine exactly what was required, modelled the entire project in 4D to ensure that all potential difficulties were solved before work began.With the right lines of communication in place, work recommenced in late January 2016, with the first challenge being to make safe a 3.5 metre high bank of unsupported earth with sheet piles, before creating a new and waterproof structural shell of reinforced concrete.With the shell of the structure in place, Newton and MJ Rooney’s next challenge was a much more welcome one, as they created a bespoke waterproofing solution to accommodate Joe’s ingenious design for a suspended reinforced slab that acted as both a floor and a prop force against the lateral pressure from the basement walls.This entire slab rested on brackets designed by Joe and his structural engineer, insulating it from the external walls by ensuring minimal contact, and only making contact through insulated blocks with enough compressive strength to take the vertical loading. The design also created a cavity around the slab that can be fully insulated, allowing the slab to be used as a thermal mass inside the building without having to insulate the entire external envelope.Working closely with Joe, a solution was devised that enabled the continuity of the waterproofing behind the brackets without compromising the structural design.

DECORATIVE RESIN BOUND PAVING DESIGN FOR LUXURY APARTMENTS IN KENTAddagrip approved contractor Total Protection GB Ltd was appointed by the Kingston Landscape Group to carry out an intricate circular surfacing design for the courtyard of an £11 million residential development in Sevenoaks, Kent.Tubs Hill House, a Prime Place development of a former office block into luxury apartments, required a high quality, decorative surfacing feature for the split level courtyard gardens, built above an existing concrete slab car park. The circular design required two contrasting colours of BBA approved Addaset Resin Bound porous surfacing created with the help of a formable edge for both the courtyard and podium area.SURFACING REQUIREMENTThe surface needed to be decorative and hard wearing to offer a durable high quality finish for the luxury apartment development. BBA approved resin bound porous surfacing was selected. A total of area of 111m2 of Addaset was installed using 3mm Lucerne Silver and 3mm Dorset Gold blends to provide a low maintenance pedestrian surface with good slip resistance for this eye catching organic design. The aluminium flexible edging strips were used to create the circular design and form a solid divide between the two resin bound colours used for this pattern.

The award-winning and BREEAM Outstanding Engineering Building at the internationally renowned Lancaster University features a complete range of architectural aluminium glazing systems from Technal. Located on the Lancaster University campus in the North West of England, the new engineering facility was awarded Winner of the RIBA National Award for 2015 and was highly commended by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors in the Design through Innovation category at the 2016 RICS North West Awards. Purpose-built to a world-class standard, the scheme comprises of 4,701 sqm of workshop, laboratory and office space in two concrete framed blocks either side of a dramatic four-storey atrium. Using passive techniques to achieve the environmental performance measure of BREEAM 'outstanding' in the design assessment, which is in-line with Lancaster University's sustainability and carbon reduction targets. With this in mind, aluminium doors and curtain walling were chosen for this project. The Facade is featured throughout the building, and was specified for its contemporary aesthetics. The system also includes concealed vents to allow natural ventilation without compromising the architectural integrity of the facade. With natural light being a key part of the specification, Technal aluminium curtain walling allowed larger and heavier glazing units to be installed thanks to its superior load distribution, permitting more natural light to flow through the building's rooms.

The waterproofing to a large residential flatted development in London was carried out using the Koster TPO membrane.This warm roof design incorporated the Koster TPO Fleecebacked membrane mechanically fixed through PIR insulation, Koster Vapour Barrier and into the timber substructure as per the wind load calculation.An interesting project with many challenges that were all individually designed by the Koster technical team in collaboration with the project architects.The final roof incorporates hard standing areas, sedum and green roof sections, a solar panel farm and decorative stones.A beautifully deigned and usable area providing residents an amazing view over London.

Granada’s secondary glazing is contributing to a quieter environment within the new Bradford Coroner’s Court following its move to a newly refurbished separate building in a more built-up and noisier area of the city.Formerly located inside Bradford Magistrates’ Court, the Coroner’s service moved to an independent site in Cater Street, Little Germany in early 2022 following years of concern over “sub-standard” facilities. It serves families in neighbouring Calderdale and Kirklees, as well as Bradford.

Project: Large scale MicroConcrete installation to all the internal walls, bathroom sinks & shower and furniture in a private house Client: Private Client Materials: Ivory colour MicroConcrete coating was hand trowelled in layers to a final thickness between 2 and 3mm and wax polished to achieve a satin finish This large scale, special project showcased innovative ways MicroConcrete can be applied to interior walls, bathroom sinks & shower and furniture without a need for joins or breaks. Its smooth finish makes it ideal for a modern, minimalist design that can be easily combined with materials like wood and ceramic.

Project: Manufacture and installation of external GAP cladding panels using hidden fixings and chemical anchoring. Client: Stuart Forbes Associates Materials used: Bespoke size external GRC cladding panels in Rough Mist finish, treated with hydrophobic agent and clear sealant. This exciting new refurbishment project of a private house in Wimbledon, London brought with it plenty of manufacturing and installation challenges! The designers’ vision called for 2m x 1.2m large format GAP panels with mitred edges to be seamlessly wrapped around the building. The panels had to be millimetre perfect to avoid any cutting on site.

Leafy Windlesham in Surrey was the location for this 5-bedroom, £15,000,000 mansion by Searchfield Homes, complete with a 4-metre deep basement containing a swimming pool and spa pool, all of which needed to be protected from water ingress and ground gases.

Naylor Lintels were supplied to the winning project of the Supreme Award at the Brick Awards 2015 The Whitworth Art Gallery. The judges comments were - Extraordinary architectural quality both in its internal and external spatial arrangements, attention to detail and workmanship. The proportions of the external spaces are immensely effective and give a calmness and richness. The relationship to its surroundings is clear in the historic Whitworth building and its landscape setting, park and new courtyards. This building has tremendous architectural quality and its use of brick as an ornamental narrative device as well as a robust skin is exceptional.

To repair the deteriorating riverbed was a specialist one which made both local and national news.Situated in Carlisle, Cumbria, the River Eden railway viaduct recently required an urgent repair solution to the deteriorating riverbed condition, where trains were having to operate at reduced speeds of 20mph over the Victorian and 1940s-built structures.Detailed laser surveys carried out by Network Rail showed fast flowing water on the River Eden had caused parts of the riverbed to wash away, posing a risk to the viaduct foundations.

Following a successful first phase in 2018, London Power Tunnels 2 (LPT2) is a project to ‘rewire’ south London. The six-year, £1bn scheme will comprise the construction of 32.5km of 3m-diameter tunnels built deep below the road network between Wimbledon and Crayford to carry high voltage electricity cables.A Hochtief-Murphy Joint Venture (HMJV) was awarded the contract in December 2019 to design and construct the tunnels & shafts and install the EHV (extra-high volume) cable brackets. The New Cross site is one of several in the overall scheme.

Client: NHS HighlandLocation: Inverness, Scotland, UKYear: 2023Project size: 400 m²Vebro systems: vebrobound StoneAn attractive, slip-resistant alternative to tarmac was required for the outdoor areas surrounding an elective care centre in the heart of Inverness Campus.NHS Highland, one of the fourteen regions of NHS Scotland, provides physical and mental health services across the Highland and Argyll and Bute Council areas, covering an area of 32,500 km² and serving a population of 320,000 people.NHS Highland has opened a new elective care facility at Inverness Campus, a hub for world-class research and development in the life-sciences sector.The National Treatment Centre, based at the Inverness Campus, comprises an ophthalmology outpatient department, ophthalmology and orthopaedic theatres, inpatient wards, an imaging and diagnostics suite, as well as collaborative spaces, educational facilities, and office spaces.Not only does the centre cater to local needs, but it also goes beyond by fostering innovation and research, enhancing the scope and impact of clinical services provided.Vebro Polymers has supplied vebrobound Stone, a fully permeable, SUDs compliant resin-bound aggregate system that is ideally suited for use in public-facing external applications like hospitals and healthcare facilities. The permeable, seamless polyurethane resin bound aggregate system is designed for installation directly onto tarmac or concrete on terraces and external areas of commercial and institutional venues and delivers a stylish and low maintenance alternative to loose gravel, block paving or concrete.Available in a range of attractive aggregate blends, vebrobound Stone can complement existing structures to deliver a stunning welcome to institutional facilities such as this.Hendersons, established over 40 years ago and based in Moray in Scotland, provide first class resin flooring installation throughout Scotland.The company, who also offer a range of other services including painting, decorating and industrial cleaning, deployed their dedicated resin flooring team to transform Glenturret Distillery. Hendersons prides itself on the continual training of existing staff and development of trainees across its business, ensuring it continues to offer an unsurpassable service.

Project details Charles de Gaulle International Airport is the second largest airport in Europe after London Heathrow. It is located just outside Paris and handles over 50 million passengers every year. For this reason it can be difficult to find the time for maintenance and repairs. "The airports floors have to withstand constant heavy traffic from passengers, staff and maintenance workers. It was therefore important that their repair and paint products were quick to apply, cure and hard wearing." The work that needed to be carried out was at the entrance to Terminal 3 which is the main public transport hub for Charles de Gaulle. For this reason the work needed to be carried out and finished between the hours of 9.30pm and 6.30am. After this time heavy traffic would resume. Our solution The first job was to clean the concrete floor slabs with Watco Concroff to remove all surface contaminants including oil and fats. Watco Concroff contains no solvents or other chemicals that are dangerous for the environment and penetrates even the thickest deposits of grease. The floor was then primed with Tack Coat, an epoxy resin adhesive primer which guarantees excellent grip on the key surface. As Charles de Gaulle is subjected to such heavy constant traffic a standard mortar would not be sufficient to withstand this, for this reason they choose Watco Concrex® Carbon Fibre. As it is as strong as granite it could be smoothed to a thickness of only 3mm, making the surface both waterproof and slip resistant. The Concrex® was subsequently painted with Safety Coat. Safety Coat is roller applied and contains fine, traction enhancing particles embedded in an epoxy resin coating so this coating was ideal for providing a non slip surface for added security.

J&P was involved early in discussions with several members of the project team, and using its BEAMCON product, provided a coordinated and value-engineered range of solutions to the multiple fixing requirements on the project. These included brackets that could take vertical shear loads of 72 kN, horizontal shear of 270 kN, tension of 495 kN and a moment of 25 kNm. BEAMCON was used to fix the innovative ETFE cladding “cushions” which give The SSE Hydro its distinctive appearance.

Naylor Lintels have been supplied to another prestigious project. Network Rail awarded the Wakefield Westgate “Gateway” Station project to Buckingham Group Contracting Ltd. The overall scope of the project • The construction of a BREEAM 2011 Excellent rated Station Building including DfT Code of Practice compliant lifts providing step free access to Platform 1 & Platform 2 and an enclosed footbridge • The Station embraces a modern open plan foyer including a travel centre, retail outlets, coffee shops and First Class Lounge • Integrated transport interchange providing a functional forecourt with Taxi/car drop-off, short stay parking and bus replacement facilities

A new £13.5million sports and swimming complex in Blackburn town centre has been constructed to replace the ageing Waves Water Fun Centre. The joint project between Blackburn with Darwen Council and Blackburn College will provide for students and residents swimming pools but also a larger fitness suite, a dance/ aerobics studio, sauna and steam room and two sports halls. The scheme, partly-based on Darwen Leisure Centre, will reduce the running costs of the existing Waves complex and reduce the subsidy.

Reigate & Banstead Borough Council is transforming Marketfield Way, Redhill, with a brand-new leisure, retail and residential development. The 0.59-hectare site will turn the western side of Marketfield Way into a vibrant destination for both property seekers and visitors to the local area. It is made up of the Council’s former Marketfield Way surface car park and a group of retail and commercial buildings fronting 18-44 High Street.Features of the scheme include:A new multi-screen cinema hosting 7 screens11 new units for restaurants and shops on the ground and first floors150 new one- and two-bedroom homes to be privately rented within buildings up to thirteen storeys in heightLandscaping and public space improvements including a ‘galleria’ pedestrian route through the site flanked by shops and restaurants.The waterproofing and gas proofing of the new mixed use scheme basement area and ground floor was a crucial element of phase 2 of the project. Reigate and Banstead Council therefore called upon contractor Vinci Construction to undertake the waterproofing works, utilising Sika’s solution provided through subcontractor Oliver Connell & Son Ltd

11 Ducie Street is home to 250 of BDP’s Manchester based staff. It comprises 2,500 square metres of open plan office space with a further 400 square metres of ancillary areas, including meeting rooms, exhibition space, café and reception area.This award-winning building was designed by BDP’s architects and engineers, with a strong emphasis on functional, aesthetic and environmental considerations. It has achieved an excellent BREEAM rating and is certified carbon neutral by the Carbon Neutral Company.

Fitzwarren Court is of one the highest buildings in Salford at 23 storeys and was a major refurbishment requiring an aesthetic and thermal upgrade. The building had originally been earmarked for demolition as part of a wider regeneration of the area, but plans were halted when Salix Homes secured funding to modernise the block.The Casey Group were appointed as main contractor for the work. New kitchens, bathrooms, doors and windows have been fitted to all 135 apartments. Our approved installer Hamilton Building Contractors were contracted by The Casey Group to complete the exterior wall insulation and rendering which had a metamorphic effect on the building’s overall appearance and thermal performance.The 1970s building was a pre-cast concrete panel system. The panels were of a ribbed surface design and were fitted together creating a recessed detail which was a unique design feature. Alongside Hamilton, we worked to transform the façade aesthetically creating a modern building, with a safe, stylish and thermally efficient solution. A complete revamp which has given the building a new lease of life and delivered safe, modern and energy efficient homes for the residents.We worked in collaboration with Hamilton Building Contractors to ensure there was minimum disruption to the residents of Fitzwarren Court, who remained in their homes while the work was carried out.K Systems produced a bespoke high-rise specification which included various zonal wind load calculations optimising the longer-term safety and durability of the design. Various factors were taken into consideration throughout the installation process including a recessed windowsill and anti-perch detail (preventing birds from settling on the sills).Our focus throughout the project included safety, quality, thermal efficiency and service.Paul Turner, Director at The Casey Group, said:   “Successful EWI schemes, especially on high-rise tower blocks, demand the highest level of Project and On-Site Support from design through to inspections, with technical guidance and warranty support. K Systems are expert partners in this field.”Discover more on how the Fitzwarren Court transformation project won at the 2021 INCA awards here: https://k.systems/news/kilwaughter-minerals-wins-big-at-prestigious-national-industry-awards/

The Royal Blackburn Hospital, located in Lancashire, England, was dubbed a “ticking time bomb” that could “collapse without warning” due to the failure of its existing reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) roof. This issue was part of a larger nationwide crisis, with 34 NHS buildings, including Blackpool Hospital, and thousands more schools, offices and more at risk of collapse due to the deterioration of RAAC structures. The estimated cost of repairs for these buildings loomed at over £1 billion. In the face of this urgent and challenging situation, The Royal Blackburn Hospital sought a solution to ensure the safety and integrity of its infrastructure.The Royal Blackburn Hospital's existing RAAC roof had reached a critical state of disrepair. The risk of a catastrophic collapse was real and imminent, posing a serious threat to patients, staff, and the hospital's ability to provide essential medical services. The financial burden of repairing or replacing such a roof was substantial, and the hospital needed an innovative, cost-effective, and expedient solution.The hospital administration and engineering team explored various alternatives to address the RAAC roof crisis. After careful evaluation, they opted for Britmet's Tactray 90 Structural Liner System as the best solution to mitigate the risk of a roof collapse. Tactray 90 offered the necessary structural reinforcement while ensuring long-term durability and stability. The installation could be completed with minimal disruption to hospital operations, a critical consideration given the hospital's 24/7 operation.Project Outcomes:Implementing Britmet's Tactray 90 Structural Liner System at The Royal Blackburn Hospital resulted in several significant benefits. The hospital's roof regained its structural integrity, mitigating the risk of collapse. The hospital saved a substantial amount by opting for the Tactray 90 system as it provided a weatherproof roof covering to minimise the impact of construction so that the hospital could resume full medical services quickly, ensuring continuity of patient care. Conclusion: The Royal Blackburn Hospital's adoption of Britmet's Tactray 90 Structural Liner System offered an innovative solution to a critical structural problem caused by the failure of the existing RAAC roof. This case study demonstrates that even in challenging situations involving aged infrastructure, cost-effective and efficient alternatives exist to safeguard structural integrity, ensure safety, and enable the continued provision of vital healthcare services. The success of this project serves as a model for other NHS facilities grappling with similar RAAC-related challenges, providing hope for the resolution of the wider national crisis.

Client: Bristol City Council Consultants: Chapman Taylor Architects & Arup Design Main Contractor: Bouygues UK Specialist Contractor: Optimum Dry Wall Systems Main Products Used: Emshield DFR-2 SystemOn the site of the former ambulance station adjacent to Castle Park, the largest urban green space in Bristol, this development is designed to provide 375 new homes, with a mixture of build-to-rent and affordable housing units. This comprises a new 26-storey tower, which will be the tallest building in Bristol, together with a 10-storey block, plus a third central building connecting the two, and providing a business centre and leisure facilities for the residents, as well as direct access to the park. The architects designed wide structural expansion joints to accommodate the anticipated levels of movement between the different building structures, as well as in and between the main reinforced concrete floor slabs and the structural frame of the building. They also wanted to reduce any noise transmission through the joints and to ensure that the designated levels of fire protection were maintained, which meant that the joints had to be treated to provide 2-hours fire resistance. To meet all these demands, the answer was a single solution using Emshield DFR-2 (horizontal floor joints) / WFR-2 (for vertical wall joints) systems. These produce a watertight joint, that can accommodate high movement up to 100% (+/- 50%), greatly reduce sound transmission (STC 62; OITC 52), and which are CE Marked to EN-1366-4 for up to 4 hrs fire resistance. 

Specialist floor levelling compounds and adhesives from F. Ball have been used to install a mixture of hard-wearing, stylish textile and vinyl floorcoverings at Hampton School in South West London. Starting in the sixth form areas, flooring contractors made a feature of the long and narrow atrium by mirroring the footprint of the mezzanine floor overlooking the breakout area onto the floor below, using a 50/50-split of Calgary Cement and Grey Forbo Flotex carpets.To achieve this, the old fibre-bonded carpet in the 250m2 room was first removed, revealing a sound, dry, concrete subfloor, which was primed using diluted Stopgap P131 general purpose primer before the application of Stopgap Green Bag levelling compound. Once the levelling compound had cured, Styccobond F44 acrylic adhesive was used to secure the PVC-backed carpet. Over in the maths’ corridor, contractors had to remove fibre-bonded carpet tiles affixed to wooden parquet blocks, leaving behind old bitumen adhesive residues. To prepare the subfloor, Stopgap 1200 Pro levelling compound was applied. Once cured, Stopgap F77 waterproof surface membrane was applied as a moisture test had indicated the presence of excess subfloor moisture, with relative humidity levels exceeding the 75% threshold for the project to progress without a moisture management solution.Next, Stopgap P141 primer was used to promote the adhesion of a subsequently applied second layer of Stopgap 1200 Pro. Finally, the 100m2 area was finished with wood-effect luxury vinyl tiles. 

SMET supplied Streetscape® BS 7533 compliant laying course materials including; bedding course, jointing, and priming mortars, to Dumfries and Galloway Council for the Streetscape element of the Lockerbie Town Centre Public Realm project. The project, comprising of 2,500 m2 of hardscape paving was designed and realised by leading Environmental Consultancy, Ironside Farrar. The SMET Streetscape® portfolio complies with the rigorous requirements of BS 7533 with all products undergoing independent testing and certification to confirm compliance. By providing a superior level of customer service and focused aftercare to their Smet Supported Partners, Smet Building Products Ltd, with the Streetscape® brand, demonstrates best-practice in Streetscape construction partnerships. Contact SMET for more information on your Streetscape® BS 7533 Compliant Laying Course Materials.Click for more detailed information on the SMET Streetscape® BS 7533 range:Click for more on some of the projects we have supplied to:https://www.smetbuildingproducts.com/projects/by-product/streetscape-high-strength-bedding-concrete/Contact SMET for any Streetscape enquiries.

This external solar shading system with aluminium sliding panels in front of the glazing means the sun's rays do not get a chance to heat up the interior directly. DucoSlide also ensures maximum privacy by screening off the glazed areas, while maintaining the view outside. DucoSlide also adds value to the façade of the building from an aesthetic point of view. The slim and robust frame profile, light weight, fine louvre blades and aluminium colour of the panels, perfectly complements the colour of the building.

Collaborating with John Turner Construction, Team BOYCO was approached to transform Kendal College’s newly built T-Level Construction Block with our fixed furniture solutions, with the customer requesting Worktops, Cupboards, and Shelving.Project ScopeLocated on the outskirts of the Lake District, Kendal College focuses on its ethos of 'Creating Bright Futures'. Offering a variety of courses, from A-Level to Degree, to a range of ages they sought to enhance their classroom space and create a practical yet comfortable learning environment. The BOYCO Way BackgroundA requirement from the client was for the product to be manufactured and installed as whole package something which BOYCO, with our own British Factory and expert installation team, was readily available to provide.Due to tools being frequently used as part of the learning experience and construction curriculum; it was important for the worktops in the T-Level block to be robust and able to withstand repeat impact.Due to this, our in-house team of designers opted to use Econo-Top worktops. Suitable for workstations, the material boasts optimal scratch and wear resistance; perfect for the construction-focused classroom, and therefore a great choice for the customer.Merinolam FR+ Laminate Sheet, in the style of ‘Castle Concrete’, was used on the exterior of the worktop after our sales team provided samples of different options to the contractor, to support with final design decisions. Not only did this add to the durability due to its phenolic resin coating which creates flame retardant properties, but it was cost-effective and provided a clean aesthetic finish to the classroom worktops. Quality Bespoke Products5 Tier adjustable shelving was installed within the Construction Block Storerooms. As per the BOYCO standard, all our metal work has been processed with our ‘Hot Dip’ Nylon coating. 500x abrasion-resistant than the next powdered coating alternative, it is easily able to withstand daily usage by the students for many years to come. This is particularly vital in a construction learning environment, where heavy and sharp tools are frequently used, therefore reflecting BOYCO’s ‘Built to Last’ exceptional quality.Our ‘Hot Dip’ Nylon also contains Anti-Microbial properties. Formulated to stop bacteria from surviving on its surface, it prevents the spread of 99% of all known bacteria. Beneficial to Kendal College, it contributes to the health and well-being of all in the classroom and complies with school safety standards.In addition to the adjustable shelving, fixed Wall Cupboards were installed in the Workshops. This storage solution ensures that students have easy access to the materials and items that they need to keep close to hand whilst working on the worktops below. The multiple storage areas help to keep the Workshop environments tidy due to equipment being organised behind the cupboard doors.Whilst completing the works on site at the College, we were notified that underfloor heating was present in the areas that BOYCO were due to fit out. We were quick to work closely with John Turner Construction to provide a solution to ensure that this wouldn’t impact the design and install. This was not a problem for us, as with over 60 years of heritage in the manufacturing business, we overcame this obstacle by utilising suitable shallow screws and fixings to avoid puncturing the structure underneath. Project SuccessThroughout the project, from design to install, Team BOYCO visited the site to ensure exceptional standards were delivered at each and every project touchpoint.Joining forces with John Turner Construction, we worked meticulously to ensure Kendal College’s requests were met. This resulted in the construction block being finished to an impeccable standard.Creating a fantastic end result, BOYCO is super proud to have worked on this project and to have positively contributed to the learning environment of future construction industry workers.

We supplied our Irish-produced Streetscape® BS 7533 compliant laying course materials including; bedding course, jointing, and priming mortars, to Scottish-based principal contractor, RJ McLeod (Contractors) Ltd for the hardscape element of the new Helix Park project in Falkirk, Scotland.The hardscape element of the Helix Park, comprising of open-space paving and connecting pathways, totalling 9,000 m2 of granite paving, was expertly laid by paving contractor, Granite Paving Specialist Ltd. The SMET Streetscape® portfolio complies with the rigorous requirements of BS 7533 with all products undergoing independent testing and certification to confirm compliance. By providing a superior level of customer service and focused aftercare to our Smet Supported Partners with the Streetscape® brand, we demonstrate best-practice in Streetscape Hardscaping construction partnerships. Click for more detailed information on the SMET Streetscape® BS 7533 range: https://www.smetbuildingproducts.com/products/streetscape/Click for more on some of the projects we have supplied to:https://www.smetbuildingproducts.com/projects/by-product/streetscape-high-strength-bedding-concrete/Contact SMET for any Streetscape enquiries.

THE PROJECTCanterbury Riverside is a major new residential development designed by PRC Architecture for Bouygues Development\Link City. Its construction has been in progress since 2020, and in January 2022, the main contractor for one of the housing elements, Jenner Ltd, commenced work on the below-ground Block 11-13 car park. Jenner appointed specialist contractor GSE to install a new ground bearing slab within the car park, which would tie in with existing columns and retaining walls. The dimensions of the slab required movement joints to be accommodated and there were multiple access points that required waterproofing detailing. The design and installation was also required to meet the requirements of the NHBC (National House Building Council), so Fosroc was appointed to supply materials, and Waterproofing Design Services to carry out the design work. Jenner had previously worked with both Fosroc and WDS on block 14 of the project to provide gas resistant membranes and design.THE SOLUTIONSupercast Crystalline Waterproof concrete was selected due to its robust waterproofing response to any potential ingress through the ground bearing slab. Supercast PVC waterbars were also installed at every movement joint, with the complete Fosroc joint solution installed via Hydrocell XL closed cell compressible joint filler and Nitoseal MS300 joint sealant, which protected the joints against damage from traffic. Care was taken to design a fully linked waterproofing system around the joints between the new slab and existing column bases. This element was closely coordinated with the installing contractor (GSE).THE BENEFITSPour sizes and schedules were optimised by careful design and coordination. A flexible and fully watertight solution was achieved, and regular dialogue with the installing contractor ensured obstacles were swiftly overcome. Feedback from GSE was positive, with Site Manager Darren Knight commenting “This was the first time we had installed the FOSROC products on a waterproof detail. The advice and the back up from the team was very good and Paul Hitchins was on hand all along the install route to aide any issues, promptly answering our questions. The products were easy to install, and regular on-site inspections ensured a smooth install throughout. I would have no issue installing this product on any other job when specified.”

BMJ transformed its London office into a more flexible and dynamic, ‘smart hub’ style workplace. A combination of Milliken's carbon neutral LVT and modular carpet floor coverings have been define the various collaboration areas, meeting spaces and workstations. This installation is a great example of the flexibility of modular floor coverings and in managing acoustics in a largely open workspace.

The farmhouse is situated within a conservation area in Tickhill near Doncaster and after 14 months of renovation is completed in November 2014. Naylor lintels were specified throughout and in some instances the walls of the building were so thick they required 4 Naylor lintels to be used side by side to make up the width. Award winning Architects Coda Studios and Contractor Terry Huggett worked closely with the client to convert and extend the somewhat rundown farmhouse and outbuildings into a stunning contemporary home.

The VeloPark Clad in Siberian Pine, and affectionately nicknamed 'The Pringle' due to the shape of its roof, The Velodrome was the first Olympic venue to be completed, and it came in on time, and on budget too! Built by ISG Ltd, who were responsible for the refurbishment of the Manchester Velodrome, and designed by Hopkins Architects, with the help of cycling legend, Sir Chris Hoy, it cost just £94 million to build. Again, Naylor Lintels feature heavily in this building and were supplied to Bromley based Brickwork Contractor R.I Works Ltd.

The Copper Box. The Handball Arena was also constructed by Winchmore Brickwork and contains Naylor Hi-Spec Lintels. Designed by MAKE Architects, it is the only permanent indoor mixed sports arena in the Olympic Park to be retained, and Winchmore have just been invited back to make alterations and refurbishments in order to convert the building into the 'Multi Use Arena', or Copper Box as it is now called, as part of the Olympic Legacy for the Queen Elizabeth Park.

Nine Elms Parkside: Under Screed Acoustic LayerWhen carrying out a large-scale housing development it pays to rely on tried and tested products to provide acoustic certainty. Regupol 7210C (REGUPOL sonus core 5) is one such product. With a long history of reliability, it is now being installed in the UK’s largest single-phase build to rent development.The ProjectNine Elms Parkside is the redevelopment of a 5.6 hectare Royal Mail depot site in Wandsworth, a key part the Vauxhall Battersea Opportunity Area, sitting between Battersea Power Station and Nine Elms market and adjacent to the new US Embassy. The scheme is master planned around the new Nine Elms Linear Park, part of a new green link connecting Battersea Park in the west, along the Thames to Lambeth Palace Gardens in the east.Blocks B and D Nine Elms Parkside were acquired in 2019 by real estate groups Henderson Park and Greystar who contracted Telford Homes to construct 641,000sft of residential space to a design by Allies & Morrison.The scheme consists of 894 build to rent apartments in two twin blocks of 10 to 17 storeys, each of which also features 12,500sft of amenity space with a rooftop swimming pool, gym, pet spa, children’s play space, private dining rooms, cinema rooms and a sky lounge. There are two large outdoor terraces, yoga gardens and community herb gardens complete with beehives. The scheme will also contain 25,000 sq ft of retail and community space.CMS Danskin is supplying Regupol 7210C (REGUPOL sonus core 5) Acoustic Resilient Layer to Stanmore, the leading drylining and façade specialist subcontractors who are carrying out the screeding between floors in the apartments.The project to supply commenced in 2020 and we have to date supplied over 96,000m2 of the product. Topping out took place in July 2021, residents will begin to occupy the scheme in 2022 and the units are expected to be fully complete in 2024.Acoustic insulation for new build apartmentsSince 2004 the Building Regulations require that separating floors between apartments meet specific requirements for airborne and impact sound transmission. The requirements are set out in Approved Document E, Resistance to the passage of sound.With a 150mm concrete slab, common in multi storey new build apartments under 18 storeys, a product is required to isolate the structure from a floating screed, thereby significantly reducing impact and airborne noise and enhancing the living conditions of occupants of the apartments.Regupol 7210C (REGUPOL sonus core 5) Acoustic Resilient Layer is an isolating layer specifically designed for this purpose and is the go-to product for floating screeds over 150mm concrete slabs.Regupol 7210C (REGUPOL sonus core 5) Acoustic Resilient Layer isA high performing insulation that delivers superior impact and airborne performance.An under-screed product designed to isolate screeds from the main structure simply and conveniently.Manufactured from recycled materials – typically aircraft tyres – making it cost effective and sustainable.Compatible with all types of floor screed, making it adaptable across a project and between projects.Aimed at constructions where Pre-Completion Testing (PCT) is preferred to a Robust Detail (RD) approach.Testing under screed insulation for acoustic performancePre-Completion Testing of acoustic floor installations gives a contractor more flexibility, allowing alternative layouts between apartments. If the designer wants to make changes to the layout of apartments, they won’t need to change the Robust Detail as each eventuality can be tested on site. With a project of over 860 flats a 10% required test rate would produce 86 acoustic tests, but the flexibility of using a PCT solution like 7210C (REGUPOL sonus core 5), and its reliability as an established product, makes that regime cost effective.Telford Homes, a long-standing customer of CMS Danskin, were looking for a Pre-Completion Testing product for Nine Elms blocks B and D. Regupol 7210C (REGUPOL sonus core 5) Acoustic Resilient Layer is an established product from an established brand, so not only were Telford Homes familiar with the product, but their experienced screeders Stanmore were also confident that testing on site would not raise any issues.Over a year into the project all the tests carried out so far have been successful.Supply chain reliabilityFor a large project with over 100,000m2 of product required over a long contract period, reliability of supply is essential. Any delay in supply can hold up wet trades and affect the critical path. With support from our supply chain partners, CMS Danskin has ensured over 96,000m2 of product has been delivered on time to date.Specify Regupol 7210C (REGUPOL sonus core 5) Acoustic Resilient LayerRegupol 7210C (REGUPOL sonus core 5) Acoustic Resilient Layer is a tried and tested solution to under screed insulation over a concrete slab, be it in apartments, hotels, education buildings or student accommodation. It provides excellent impact and airborne performance, is approved by NHBC for ADE 2003 compliance, and offers long term performance even under high loads.The product is completely recyclable and is produced from recycled materials. It provides Zero global warming potential (GWP) and zero ozone depletion potential (ODP).Regupol 7210C (REGUPOL sonus core 5) Acoustic Resilient Layer is supplied in easy to handle sheets which are quick and easy to install without the need for separate perimeter strips.

Avoiding gas reliance when building a new house.Traditional self-build projects have always had heating systems such as gas central heating and solar panels installed. However, with the increasing costs of gas, and the uncertainty of future supplies, a secondary heating source is required.There are options such as ground heating pumps, etc. but a real heating system independent of the grid, plus a stunning focal point has to be a wood burning stove.In fact, wood logs are now the cheapest domestic heating fuel. According to the Stove Industry Alliance, wood now is “costing households 74% less per kWh than electric heating and 21% less than gas heating”. The benefits don’t end there. “Using a modern wood burning stove also costs 29% less to run than an air source heat pump. Wood logs are 87% less carbon intensive than gas, 88% less than electricity and 74% less than an air source heat pump.”Building a traditional steel pipe flue system is always an option, but steel systems are more suitable in retrofit projects where minimum disruption is required. When you are building a house from the ground up, then a more permanent and ultimately lifetime option is the better one.