"land use planning"

More than 1,600 litres of Textrol Oil Clear were applied to the Velodrome and whilst we still cannot produce a proper case study until the games has finished, there is some evidence out there now.The 12,000 square metre roof is constructed using a very lightweight double curving cable net, suspended from a steel structure. Beneath it, the oval track is 250m in length, engineered for speed and constructed with great precision entirely from wood.The exterior of the building is clad in 5,000m2 of custom-cut Western Red Cedar shiplap boards. The entire exterior cladding was coated with Owatrol Textrol oil.

The Silverstone Experience is a new technology driven and interactive visitor attraction opened in the summer of 2019 celebrating the exciting past, present and future of Silverstone and British motor sport.Fuelled by the most comprehensive and accessible collection of British motor sport records, the visitor can delve deep into the history of both Silverstone and British motor racing through an immersive state-of-the-art visitor journey.The system specified was Resuflor Topcoat which uses the Resuflor HB high build epoxy resin product incorporating an aggregate scatter used to create a hard wearing anti-slip finish which could be cleaned and also provide a safe surface for busy footfall. Resuflor Topcoat is regularly specified in automotive type workshops.

Resin flooring systems from Sherwin-Williams for food and drink manufacturing areas are seamless, strong, slip-resistant and safe for pedestrian traffic. Textured products including FasTop TG69 are independently tested as having low slip potential when tested with the TRRL Pendulum method promoted by the Health & Safety Executive.In order to reduce the impact on daily operations and allow food production to continue, FasTop TG69 is low odour and can be installed as quickly as possible in line with fast-track programmes to avoid disrupting manufacturing procedures as much as possible.This flooring system can withstand high temperatures, thermal exposure to reflective heat from ovens, as well as heavy impact, heavy machinery and equipment, and a high volume of footfall. It can also resist particularly harmful chemicals used as part of the Clean-In-Place CIP process such as caustic soda, nitric and phosphoric acid.

MEDITE PREMIER MDF has been used to create innovative 3D feature wall designs at the corporate headquarters of international media company, UBM, in Blackfriars, Central London. The landmark development made use of the timber panels in a bespoke interior wall design on each floor.

The challenge of installing one of the largest expanses of flooring in a single project – and one of the most complex – faced the hub where east meets west at Hamad International Airport in Doha, Qatar. The airport is described as ‘the gateway to Qatar’ and the hub for its world-class airline Qatar Airways with the capacity to serve 8,700 passengers per hour and 30 million every year. Specifiers wanted a flooring high in aesthetic and environmental credentials to meet all requirements at this important airport zone and meeting all relevant environmental and health and safety regulations.  SystemThe system chosen was epoxy terrazzo flooring supplied by Sherwin-Williams - 140,000 sq metres of pigmented epoxy resin - involving the shipping of pre-mixed marble aggregates from Italy to complete the design for the main floor areas consisting of three colours, primarily dark grey with pure black or white epoxy terrazzo.The epoxy terrazzo was poured in situ as the 16,000 workers from various countries navigated their way around the 5,500-acre site and ground and polished the flooring to a high finish, bringing with it major environmental benefits. Thin set epoxy conforms to the EU’s solvents and Volatile Organic Compounds Emissions Directive.The installation process itself also meant there was very little waste – the terrazzo prepared for installation was measured accurately to allow as much or as little to be used in application.The epoxy terrazzo is high in aesthetic and environmental features and meets the demands of architects and specifiers for longer-lasting products with ever-greater green credentials.Terrazzo flooring is a composite – a mix of resin with aggregates which give the product such variety in its design. Intended to be a durable, hard-wearing and highly decorative flooring solution, the resinWith simple re-polishing or re-sealing using water-based products a typical terrazzo flooring can last up to 40 years. However, vinyl floor sheets would require replacing typically every 12 years or less.The Sherwin-Williams Difference By putting our customers first, we know that the innovation, imagination, research and development we put into each and every product will be worth it. You are at the centre of our thinking wherever we operate around the world across five continents whether it is advice, specification or on-site inspection. You are the reason we exist. This is the Sherwin-Williams difference.

Rising up from its Thames-side site at Pimlico at the meeting of Millbank and Vauxhall Bridge, River Walk is an elegant new development of 116 high specification apartments with 170 crescent-shaped balconies, all of which need to be carefully waterproofed. Specialist roofing contractor Knight Asphalte Co Ltd is carrying out this task, using Hydrostop AH-25 liquid waterproofing.

The site was in a challenging position, the location was confined with additional restricted access, the client also insisted on building with “natural and healthy materials”. Our AIRTIGHT structural panel with exceptional airtightness, effortlessly met the brief, even within a very tight budget.

Chris’s nature inspired garden sculptures are beautiful. From his small ferns to his large grass plumes, every piece is hand crafted with love and care.He offers his sculptures in two finishes; rustic and stainless steel. The rustic style has a beautiful rich brown finish, whilst the stainless steel version offers a shiny finish that reflects the surrounding areas.We think you will agree that both are stunningChris’s nature inspired garden sculptures are beautiful. From his small ferns to his large grass plumes, every piece is hand crafted with love and care.He offers his sculptures in two finishes; rustic and stainless steel. The rustic style has a beautiful rich brown finish, whilst the stainless steel version offers a shiny finish that reflects the surrounding areas.We think you will agree that both are stunning.Here’s what Chris has to say about Owatrol Oil:When I first started creating garden sculptures I tested out a range of oils and paints, looking for a finish that would enhance my work. Owatrol oil has proved to be the best, giving my rusted ferns a lovely dark satin finish. When asked, most of my clients prefer the oiled finish and it’s very easy to apply. On a sunny day I oil my sculptures in the garden and they’re dry in a few hours.When it comes to more complicated designs such as seed heads, the aerosol is great at covering the ‘hard to reach’ areas.I’ve been using Owatrol for over 5 years now, it just gives a quality finish.Chris offers a wide range of products. From garden sculptures, to fire-pit cubes and ornamental panels, you will easily find something beautiful for your garden.What is Owatrol Oil?Owatrol oil is a versatile, highly penetrating air drying oil. As a rust inhibitor it provides a tough, flexible finish, driving out excess moisture and air; displacing it from rusted metal, so stopping rust dead in its tracks.Owatrol Oil penetrates through the rusted metal to the sound metal below, isolating it and protecting it from further rusting. As it’s a penetrating oil it can be used directly on the rusted surfaces. It drives out moisture and air and stabilises the metal to protect it from future damage.Head on over to C K Garden Sculptures and take a look for yourself at Chris’s amazing work.

We have recently received a lovely case study from a customer that used Polytrol to revive their black composite front door. As you can see, Lisa’s door had become dull from pollution, rain and UV rays. She wanted to bring it back to its original shine and also try to mask some of the scratches.We recommended that she use our colour restorer, Polytrol.

FasTop SL45 self smoothing polyurethane resin was used as a 5mm thick seamless floor finish for this large hospital kitchen in Sydney, Australia. This facility is extremely busy producing over 2 thousand meal a day which have to be moved around the hospital quickly on special trolleys. This type of traffic meant the flooring had to be able to withstand regular wheeled traffic and footfall and be safe and cleanable within a hospital environment.

Providing relevant information in a short, concise and easy-to-read way is vital for museums and events when displaying items such as sculptures, historic artefacts or displays. This is why ensuring you create the perfect caption in front of your display is of the utmost importance to provide all of the relevant information without visitors losing interest or missing the caption completely.About The ProjectThis case study highlights the application of RecoStakes at Beaulieu Museum for their Sculpture at Beaulieu 2023 event. This event showcases the remarkable work of over 57 renowned sculptors and runs from June 17th to September 24th. Beaulieu Museum aimed to provide their visitors with perfectly positioned sculpture captions and sought an attractive, durable and long-lasting solution."We hold a sculpture exhibition every other year at Beaulieu, here in the New Forest. Whilst Beaulieu is best known for the world-famous National Motor Museum, it is also the home of Palace House, the Montagu family's ancestral home. The exhibition features 300 sculptures in Palace House and throughout its grounds and gardens.""We wanted to enhance the exhibition this year with captions for each of the sculptures, displaying the sculpture name, artist and a QR code taking the visiting through to a dedicated webpage with more information. The outdoor captions needed to be at a height and angle that made it easy for the visitor to read. We considered using wood, but from experience these haven't lasted well from year to year. Metal posts were too expensive.""One of the team then came across GCL Products and your RecoStake and thought with some adaptation that they could work. We bought a couple of samples of the grey 60cm stake and mocked up a caption by chop sawing a 45-degree angle on the top of the post and mounting with two screws a backboard onto the post. We then printed each caption on a black die-bond board and stuck it to the caption post." - Rachael at Beaulieu Enterprises LtdWhat Are RecoStakes?RecoStakes, part of our lawn edging fixings collection, are made entirely from recycled plastic waste generated by consumers. These premium fixings are meticulously designed and crafted to be used alongside RecoEdge edging rolls. They offer robust, durable, weatherproof, and easy-to-install solutions for creating attractive separations between different landscaped areas.The unique attributes of RecoStakes, derived from their use of recycled plastic waste, made them an ideal choice for Beaulieu Museum and their sculpture caption stands. The 600mm RecoStakes provided the museum with sturdy and reliable stands at the desired height. Moreover, they can be reused for future events, thereby reducing costs.Conclusion"With these tests being a success, we installed circa 200 of these posts in the final days of installation, and they are looking great and lasting well. We are confident given the materials they are made from that they will last for several exhibitions to come." - Rachael at Beaulieu Enterprises LtdWe are thrilled to witness the successful and innovative implementation of RecoStakes at Beaulieu Museum. Our thanks go to Rachael and the team for selecting our recycled plastic stakes to create captivating captions and for sharing photos of their remarkable event. We are confident it will be a resounding success.If you have any enquiries regarding our product range, please don't hesitate to contact us. Our team is available for calls and LiveChat during office hours or you can leave us a message outside of these times.

Downer our original helping hand, aluminium rainscreen framing system, helps lead the way for this exemplary education sector project.In the words of leading education sector architects – Bond Bryan, The Broxbourne School is a beacon for excellence for modern education.Architectural Panel Solution's Downer rainscreen framing system - DCS031 was used extensively for this ambitious projects as you can see from the supporting suite of images.A vibrant and contemporary aesthetic was achieved thanks to the complementing, highly durable Swisspearl fibre cement facade panels – Vintago (Colours: VI 061, VI 091) fixed with Sika adhesive onto Swisspearl’s Sigma8 mechanical secret fixing system, and our original Downer DCS031 framing.Architectural Panel Solutions was extremely proud to have won an award for this project in last year’s Facade Awards, thanks to an excellent collaboration with SD Samuels (Special Projects) Ltd, Bond Bryan Architects, ArchitecturePLB, Mid Group Ltd LtdFind out more on our website and check out the photography on the architects’ and installers websites too.https://bondbryan.co.uk/project/the-broxbourne-school/https://www.sdsamuels.co.uk/broxbourne-school/https://downerframing.com/downer-framing-used-extensively-for-the-broxbourne-school

We’re always so pleased when we hear from customers who have opted to use our products for their projects.When we received an email and some impressive before and after photos, from one such customer who had used Polytrol colour restorer to revive his garage door, we’re not exaggerating when we say that there was an audible buzz of appreciation in the Owatrol office as we took in the transformation.It was then that we knew that we had to share how Brian (our happy customer) had achieved this result, so that our other customers could benefit, too.First, clean your garage doorIf you want to replicate Brian’s success, it’s important to ensure that your garage door is prepped before application. Your door must be clean and free of any dirt, grease, mildew or grime.A bit of elbow grease and a bowl of soapy water is usually all you’ll need to do the job. However, if there’s any mildew on your garage door, scrub on a 50:50 bleach and water solution, leave it for 10 minutes, then rinse it off.If you have any polishes or waxes on your garage door, you will need to remove these too.Before moving on to the next step, ensure that your garage door is completely dry.Now it’s time to apply PolytrolA deep penetrating oil, Polytrol works by penetrating the surface of your door and re-wetting the pigments. This restores the colour that has been lost over the years, through exposure to pollution, rain and sunlight.Using a brush or a cloth and only working in sections that you can complete in 10-20 minutes, apply a liberal layer of Polytrol.As you work, if you notice any particularly matt and shiny patches, it means that the surface is absorbing Polytrol unevenly. If this happens, just move any surplus oil over to the matt areas.Allow the product to work for 10-20 minutes, then wipe off any excess with a clean, lint-free cloth. If you want a shinier finish, you can also buff the surface with a lint-free cloth.It really is as simple as that…Now, you just need to leave Polytrol to dry.One of the great things about Polytrol, is that it has been designed to dry to a tough and long-lasting flexible finish but with no film, so you won’t need to worry about it peeling or flaking.Plus, Polytrol is now also available in a spray can, to make application super simple.“Couldn’t have wished for a better result”Brian informed us that he:“just chanced upon your advert while browsing the net looking for a product that would improve the look of my door, and I am so very glad that I did…”In his email, Brian also said he “couldn’t have wished for a better result”. We have to agree – his garage door has been totally transformed.

Vaults are a common feature of 18th and 19th century buildings in Bath. Originally built to support the cobbled streets above and were a constructional response to the precipitous topography that surrounds Bath, in order to provide a level site. Many of the vaults within historic Bath suffer with water ingress and damp related problems. Incorporating best practice guidance - Type C Waterproofing Systems (BS 8102: 2009) a Type C System was used to keep this historic vault watertight and dry.

Accoya has been selected for the façade of the building and has been designed to recreate Louis Vuitton’s famous quatrefoil branding which adorns many of the company’s luxury products. The façade also had to meet the high standard of quality associated with the brand and be delivered to the highest levels of aesthetic finish. The finished building is impressive and the Accoya façade is covered with our guarantee against rot and decay for 50 years for exterior use above ground, making it perfect for a demanding outdoor application and location such as this.

Hush Acoustics provided the acoustic floor and wall solutions for a development in Ellesmere Port, Cheshire involving the conversion of a former Woolworths store turned snooker hall, which was being transformed into a ground floor sports shop with nine first floor apartments above. In addition to meeting the acoustic performance requirements, the client was also keen to ensure the design would meet the fire regulations required.Following a site visit, the Hush HD1030 system was specified for the separating floors. This is compliant with UK Building Regulations Approved Document E and is suitable for refurbishment projects with timber structures that incorporate lath and plaster ceilings – all with the benefit of a 1-hour fire resistance at ceiling level.We worked closely with EH Building Contractors to ensure the HD1030 acoustic floor system was installed to the required standard. For the separating walls, Hush Twin Frame Metal Stud Party Walls were installed onto the plywood structural floor and isolated using Heavy-Duty Isolation Tape. The stud walls were insulated using the Hush Slab 100 Sound Absorber, ensuring the cavity between the two stud frames were kept clear.The client had initially discussed keeping the original existing lay in grid ceiling within the shop, however, in order to achieve outstanding acoustic performance, the majority of the perforated metal panels from within the lay in grid ceiling had to be removed. Some of the original ceiling could be retained, however, with higher performing ceiling tiles used to replace it in other areas, maintaining the original features as per the client’s request.Once completed, acoustic testing was carried out on site to determine the success of the acoustic design and installation. First of all, the twin metal stud wall was tested, which achieved an airborne performance of 56db (DnTw+Ctr). An airborne sound test was then conducted between the sports shop and one of the first floor apartments which showed a performance of 47 dB (DnTw+Ctr).All of the acoustic performance goals were achieved without any significant ceiling treatment and our client was happy with the results.

Metalseal 20 was specified to re-brand a small industrial estate in Swindon. Roofs and external cladding were all stripped of existing finishes using vapour blasting. Cut edge corrosion was treated using SWT Primer and all metal surfaces were coated with BBA Approved Metalseal 20 roof & cladding coating. The finish is now graffiti proof, with any graffiti simply washing off with water, with no ghosting residue. The project is covered by the unique Liquasil latent defects insurance guarantee (including cover for professional design).

AstraZeneca Case StudyProject: AstraZeneca HQ, CambridgeProduct: Fade acoustic plasterQuantity: 4200m2Main Contractor: MaceSubcontractors: CMS DanskinArchitect: Herzog & de MeuronValue of Overall Project: £50 Million +Introduction: AstraZeneca Acoustic Plaster Case StudyAfter starting the project with Skanska as lead contractors, in 2019 AstraZeneca switched to their current partnership with Mace to complete their multi-million pound HQ. The building is designed with research facilities at the forefront, and is sound insulted using Fade Acoustic technology.About AstraZenecaSince its inception in 1998, AstraZeneca has been a trailblazer in the fields of medical and scientific research. The Swedish-British company has over 90 locations worldwide and is active across Africa, Europe, Asia and North America. Their headquarters in Cambridge will act as a hub for global innovation, and their patents improve the lives of millions each year. Most recently, their Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine was the first COVID-19 vaccine to be approved in the UK, and has since been adopted worldwide. The company is also at the forefront of cancer research, partnering with Cancer Research UK to improve survival rates.About MaceMace Construction has been developing ideas for clients across five continents for the past 30 years. Their project list is extensive: they’ve worked on everything from airports to the world’s largest observation eye, and closer to home with a renovation of TV’s Coronation Street. Like many industries, the COVID-19 crisis has hit the construction industry in unexpected ways. Instead of seeing this as a setback, Mace have innovated their work-from-home technologies, introducing drones and remote technology to future-proof their business. The company is also future focused in their view towards the environment, implementing green ideas across all projects. Recently Mace were lead contractors on 70 St Mary Axe, the curved skyscraper currently under construction in central London. As well as boasting an attractive semi-elliptical design, by using double-glazed wall cladding and vertical shading fins, the skyscraper also boasts incredibly low carbon emissions.About the projectAstraZeneca’s UK based headquarters have been in the pipeline since 2013. Originally valued at £330 million, soaring material costs and increased investment in new technologies raised the cost to £500 million by 2019. The new headquarters is an immense glass-based structure at the center of Cambridge’s Chesterford Research Park. Herzog & de Meuron’s triangular design was chosen to encourage easy movement around the building, and glass panels are used liberally throughout to “promote ‘visible science’, according to AstraZeneca. The central piazza is a nod to the sprawling courtyards of Cambridge University, providing a communal space for socialising and the sharing of ideas. The headquarters will act as a central hub for both research and business, linking commerce and science under one glass roof.About Fade acousticsFade Acoustic plaster is a flexible alternative to traditional acoustic solutions. A fibreglass substrate provides a sound insulating layer which is then sprayed with 3mm of plaster. This extra layer gives a plastered-like finish, completely disguising the panels beneath. This invisible layer makes Fade Acoustics products ideal for preserving integrity of the building’s original design. The modernist Shenzhen Sea World Culture & Arts Center, for example, was completed using Fade Acoustics plus+ to provide seamless insulation that showed off the building’s angular modernist features. The product can me made to fit any type of structure, applied to concrete or timber substrate, or can even be attached direct to grid using Fade Special Washers. Fade Acoustic products have been proven to be durable and humidity resistant, receiving an A+ rating from French regulatory bodies for creating safe indoor environments.Why Was Fade Acoustics chosen?Mace had previously used Fade Acoustics Plus+ on Tottenham Hotspur’s new stadium, chosen for their hassle-free installation and wide range of colour options which allowed for flawless blending with existing plaster. After this success, Fade Acoustics were an obvious choice for AstraZeneca’s HQ. The project’s complex geometric structure required a soundproofing technique that could adapt to the building’s unique shape without hindering design. The HQ required a bespoke thickness due to the installation of sprinklers. This meant the team had to create a custom sized acoustic board by altering fibreglass substrate to 30mm, instead of their regular 25mm or 40mm. Due to travel restrictions during the COVID-19 crisis, the chosen product also needed to be installed quickly without compromising on quality. CMS Danskin were able to acquire the material quickly, meaning WRR UK, long-time contractors with Mace and the project’s approved installer, could start installation within two weeks. Fade Acoustic’s flexible and easy to install product meant the team could install 4200m² of Fade Acoustic plaster in the final two months of the project. The project is due to be unveiled later this year.

White Cliff House, designed by RDMA, is built with steps and planter boxes arranged naturally as a hardscape stretched from the lowest to the highest point of the land. The height differences between facades emerged from the two roads attached. It was treated as the site power, which was brought up in the site planning as the major theme. Bringing in the outdoor qualities within the masses not only enriches the space experience inside but also enlarges the narrow width.On a sloppy narrow land measuring 6,5 x 25 meter, 3 programs were built within steps and planter boxes arranged naturally as a hardscape stretched from the lowest to the highest point of the land. They are 2 lofts serves as guest houses and a 2 storey house for the property owner at the top. The unfriendly 30 degree contour created more than 10 meter height differences between facades that emerged from the two roads attached at both ends of the stretch, and it was in-fact treated as the site power which brought up into the site planning as the major theme of how the building masses should perform and interact within each other. By applying terracing strategy, building masses were arranged in a way that each of the roof can also function as a balcony for the floor above. Every floor has their own private balcony.Selo provided the exceptional versatile doorset, Arriva. When positioned in front of the concealed flush side, the door gracefully swings open towards you, adding to its user-friendly and adaptable design.

Building an outdoor garden and entertaining space with a fab kitchen area that’s the envy of all your friends and neighbours is something many of us only dream about. The new series of Love Your GardenIn the new series of Love Your Garden with Alan Titchmarsh, landscaping experts Cotswold Garden Renovation Services LTD built a beautiful stone columned kitchen with a porcelain slab countertop using Power Grab ‘n’ Bond to secure everything in position for a long-lasting finish, guaranteed to last for a lifetime. Harry & Jamie only use the best materialsHarry Barnes & Jamie Johnstone of Cotswold Garden Renovation are leading the great garden revolution. They’ve shown that with passion and skills anything is possible and provide landscaping expertise for ITV’s Love Your Garden alongside garden designers Alan Titchmarch, Francis Tophill, David Domoney, Katie Rushworth and Danny Clarke.They believe in always using the best quality tools, materials and trusted brands. Power Grab ‘n’ Bond is developed by leading British manufacturers CT1, the No1 sealant and adhesive in the UK. CT1 is always leading and providing the industry with the very latest technology. Now thanks to its unique ‘Tribrid®’ technology Power Grab ‘n’ Bond is a revolutionary product in the field of heavy-duty versatile bonding. Building a outdoor kitchen using Power Grab ‘n’ BondIn their latest project Harry and Jamie hand built a series of vertical stone columns that were then braced together with wide metal strips. Usually these would have to be fitted using mechanical fixings, requiring holes to be drilled through the stone and heavy bolts fitted with their thick heads protruding above the metal braces. As 20mm porcelain slabs were being fitted on top, these protruding bolts were going to be a major issue. Power Grab ‘n’ Bond provided the perfect solution as it’s the ultimate grab adhesive, eliminating the use of mechanical fixings completely and coupled with the rapid curing will, in most projects, save 50% labour time and cost.Using a heavy-duty caulking gun, Harry and Jamie applied Power Grab ‘n’ Bond straight from the cartridge, onto the metal braces and after 4-5minutes fixed directly them into place. Why use Power Grab ‘n’ Bond?With phenomenal initial grab, this fast curing, non-shrinking and almost odourless adhesive secured the braces firmly with immediate effect.Three times stronger than regular hybrid polymers, the ‘Tribrid®’ technology in Power Grab n Bond ensures longer colour retention, incredible durability and flexibility, even when applied outdoors.Yet Power Grab ‘n’ Bond will remain flexible and resist vibrations caused by cooking equipment, barbecuing and constant use. It won’t dry out, nor become brittle and works perfectly in temperatures ranging from 90°C right down to the mind numbing cold -40°C. Power Grab ‘n’ Bond will successfully stick to any material in most applications Not only does it successfully stick all metals (including alloys), but Power Grab also ‘n’ Bond has a capacity to adhere to a wide range of materials such as stone, granite, ytong, marble, concrete, wood, MDF, fiberglass, glass, polystyrene, mirrors and most plastics (except PP, PE and PTFE). Furthermore, its ability to bond combined materials such as wood to concrete or stainless steel to stone is incredible. Power Grab ‘n’ Bond removes the need for mechanical fixings!Originally created for facades and heavy stonework such as the installation of quoins, the versatility, strength and reliability of Power Grab ‘n’ Bond means it now used more widely by professional shop and kitchen fitters as well as specialist trades, landscapers and bathroom installers. It is tested by a UKAS Accredited lab to BS EN 12003 (Determination of shear adhesion strength of reaction resin adhesives) and BS EN1308 (Determination of slip resistance).After fitting the braces Harry and Jamie applied Power Grab ‘n’ Bond to the top side of the metal strips and laid 900x900x20mm thick heavy duty porcelain slabs in place to form the countertop of the external kitchen. How strong is Power Grab ‘n’ Bond?Power Grab ‘n’ Bond is a single part solvent free solution, with a far greater density, allowing phenomenal initial grab, even on vertical installations, and offers a final tensile strength of 22kg per cm2 when fully cured. These metal braces and porcelain slabs aren’t going anywhere soon and will provide a lifetime of outdoor dining for the homeowners. Where can I get Power Grab ‘n’ Bond?Grab also ‘n’ Bond is made in Britain with British technology and British design. Its available now in all good builders merchants nationwide and online from www.ct1.com

  ​​​​​​​The FasTop RS69 polyurethane cement system was used for this ongoing Bangladesh food production plant project to deliver a heavy duty hygienic floor. Sherwin-Williams FasTop Multi RS69 product used in this system delivered a thickness of 6 mm overall and 9 mm in selected areas under machines where the floor would be subjected to boiling water. The initial area totalled 3500 sqm, and then further areas were done as the applicator worked through the factory. The project was the first time Quality Floors Bangladesh Ltd. team had taken advantage of the FasTop technology which featured extreme application conditions, including temperatures of 34-36oC, day and night, and also air humidity up to 100%.

At Mayfield Place in Winkfield, Bloor had planned and designed seven five-bedroomed luxury houses. Whitesales were asked to provide sleek, minimalist rooflights which would complement the homes’ design. em.glaze modular ridgelights are modular rooflights available in standard sizes from stock, with a choice of glazing and ventilation options. They exceed all regulations for impact-resistance, durability, environmental and thermal performance. Two rooflights were supplied and installed for each home; one in the deep open-plan dining areas and the other above the first-floor landing and stairwell, casting natural light through both floors.

BackgroundLocated on a hill overlooking the union of the Sambre and Meuse rivers, the Citadelle of Namur has witnessed ‘millions of years of geological history and two thousand years of human history’.In 2021, cable cars were added to the extensive list of attractions at the Citadelle, giving visitors beautiful panoramic views of Namur.The ChallengeThe Citadelle is an extremely popular tourist attraction and therefore an extensive downtime was not possible. To coincide with their exciting new addition, paving was installed at the entrance to the cable cars and surrounding the exhibition centre. It was critical that the paving was installed with durable materials that would withstand heavy foot traffic, and would also provide a stunning finish suitable for the historic environment.The SolutionWith over 25 years’ experience providing the world with BS 7533 compliant paving installation materials, UltraScape was an obvious choice to use at this exciting location.Supplied by Instarmac International’s Belgian partner, Nijst Natuursteen, UltraScape flowpoint rapid set flowable grout was used to joint 800sqm of paving at the Citadelle.UltraScape flowpoint smooth is a flowable grout which allows for large areas of paving to be grouted quickly. Suitable for joints from 3mm to 50mm and as deep as 200mm, flowpoint smooth has been developed over a number of years to provide a durable finish which will not crack or stain – even in the hottest and coldest of temperatures.With an initial set after just 15 minutes, and a walk on time of one hour, it is unsurprising that flowpoint smooth has become synonymous with fast application, cost-effective and robust jointing.UltraScape flowpoint is available in four varieties – original, eco, smooth and fine – and two colours – Natural Grey and Charcoal. UltraScape have jointing solutions for all designs and tastes.ResultsThe work was completed in 2021 and visitors to the stunning and historic Citadelle are now enjoying a beautifully paved area whilst in line for the cable cars.

DAY Architectural Ltd and contractor Armitage collaborated with EQUITONE to carry out the refurbishment of the restaurant at Stepping Hill Hospital in Stockport. The shingle design was created using EQUITONE [natura] in an overlap formation of multiple colours, including Summer Haze, Muted Yellow and Pale Mist.

Sevenoaks School is a leading independent school located in Kent, England. The new Science and Technology Centre is one of the most sophisticated, high-specification education buildings in the UK. The interior is designed to encourage curiosity and collaboration among young scientists.Silent Gliss blinds were layered in the laboratories using roller blinds SG 4910 with Aluscreen Futura fabric to provide glare protection in daylight, and dim-out system SG 4740 for room darkening. To blend harmoniously with the surroundings, the profiles are colour matched to the window frames. The social and study areas are fitted with hand-operated curtain tracks SG 6840 with Wave for a softer room ambience. The end result is an aesthetically stunning, award-winning education facility which has achieved a BREEAM Excellent rating.

CMS DANSKIN ACOUSTICS recommended a bespoke combination of industrial acoustic materials to ensure noise at work compliance at ExxonMobil Oil Refinery. The ChallengeFawley Oil Refinery is the largest oil refinery in the UK. When ExxonMobil found that the noise output from two industrial fans at the refinery exceeded the levels specified by The Control of Noise at Work Regulations, it consulted CMS Danskin Acoustics for advice. To ensure the most cost effective and high performing materials were specified, CMS Danskin Acoustics evaluated the noise reduction required on-site. Evaluation of the acoustic data revealed that noise levels in excess of 118dB at 125Hz were being emitted by the fans. Based on these criteria, the technical team at CMS Danskin Acoustics recommended the use of a combination of specialist materials from its industrial acoustic range. The SolutionTo control the low frequency-biased sound, CMS Danskin Acoustics recommended and supplied the SuperLag Quietslab Laminate with Acoustic Barrier Type WB10 combination for the fan casings and associated ductwork. Creating a multi-layered, high performance system, two layers of SuperLag Quietslab Laminate, totalling 250mm thickness, with a core of 5mm Acoustic Barrier Type WB10, were bonded onto the fan casings and ductwork. A direct coupled lagging system, SuperLag Quietslab Laminate comprises long-stranded mineral fibres thermo-set with resins for the absorption of sound at the surface, as well as a high mass inner acoustic barrier core to reduce the transmission of sound through the material. Manufactured from a weight-enhanced, high-density material, Acoustic Barrier Type WB10 provides a flexible and cost effective treatment for chemical and refinery applications. In total, 1,000m2 of the SuperLag Quietslab Laminate/Acoustic Barrier Type WB10 materials were installed around the fans and ductwork to achieve the high levels of sound reduction required.ResultsThe high performance bespoke system specified by CMS Danskin Acoustics, significantly reduced the noise generated by the fans. This enabled ExxonMobil to comply with The Control of Noise at Work Regulations by bringing noise levels under the 85dB compliance level.

The I-House System, incorporating Celcon Vertical Wall Panels, has been specified for use on 164 units of the Norton Farm site in Bromsgrove. The I-House system, a collaboration between Roofspace (formerly SIG) and H+H UK provides the speed of offsite construction with the familiarity of a traditional build.

Rawson’s Fanfare range has been chosen in 2 distinct colours for the Key Assets office project in Birmingham. The result is a covering which meets the planned aesthetic and offers a soft, quiet and comfortable surface. Rawson Carpet Solutions have been supplying the office and Education sectors for over 50 years. As the markets have evolved, so too has the product range and customer support. Hannah Sidley of CB Interiors stated: ‘We were looking for a heavy contract carpet which worked with our design concept portraying a contemporary look. The Fanfare Range supplied by Rawson carpets provided this, being solution dyed nylon and with BRE A+ environmental accreditation. Plus being fully supported as a UK manufacturer we were confident about meeting the deadline as the supply wouldn’t be an issue. Fanfare is a range that can be laid tessellated or broadloom, the result is a tile which offers the aesthetics of a seamless, monolithic floor. The sinuous look complements the space and offers great durability with castor chair resistance. The contract carpet tile is constructed using high grade solution dyed nylon and as such offers great cleaning results. Rawson values the Environment. All considerations for ethical trading down the manufacturing and supply line and the responsible choice of REACH compliant materials is paramount. In addition, carpets are provided with the BRE Green Guide Individual assessment, achieving A+ and this offers clients the assurance of an environmentally conscious product and manufacturer. Indeed there are products in the range that are fully recyclable. WE Rawson, A UK Company since 1865, is ISO9001:2015 accredited with 3 divisions and a heritage past as a reputed long standing privately owned UK Manufacturer.

Aluminium cladding that looks like real timber, quite simply put, but it is actually real timber. Chosen for its natural aesthetic and ultimate fire resistance, Technowood has rapidly become a “go-to” cladding facade for Architects and Designers.Considered as a sheltered social project, the two towers are located on a raised outdoor podium on a scale that doesn’t hide its presence. The well-developed landscaping area, which also serves as a central garden area, also includes a shopping centre with 150 stores and a cinema. It has a gallery space aligned with transparent oriental pools. These transparent pools, which form the centre of Next Level, illuminate the shopping centre with the sunlight breaking through the water, giving its guests a relaxing ambience. The 7500 sq. m of landscaping is a recipe for complete social togetherness. The public and private wellbeing have been transformed into an urban area. This also allows a diverse culture, entertainment, work and socialisation.This newly built-up area has also become a new living space for people adopting a modern lifestyle, where business and social life come together. Furthermore, Next Level is designed as a cutting edge mixed-use project of this area, it reflects the development of the region and this contemporary way of life has been well accepted by its new occupants.The mixed materials manufactured by Technowood is a testimony to the company. As well as its ability to work with the demands of the Architect. By having the expertise to deliver complex shaped materials in the same palette, colour and texture.Technowood is an FSC certified product; it uses only 2% of timber when compared to solid timber facades. It uses even less when compared to solid timber structures.Credits and Further informationArchitect: Brigitte Weber ArchitectsLocation: Ankara, TurkeyProject: Commercial, residential and shopping centreMaterials: Technowood CladdingCompletion: 2013

Soap chiefs have moved Weatherfield from Manchester to nearby Salford so they have more space for filming. Builders have recreated The Rovers Return, The Kabin and Dev’s corner shop as well as the characters’ homes down to every minute detail. Builders laid about 11,000 cobbles, 190,000 bricks of different types and used seven colours of mortar so it looks realistic. The new set is full size so two cars will be able to pass each other on the Street. Broughton Brickwork used Naylor lintels whilst building the Coronation Street lots.

The recently built front extension creates a new threshold for the church, encompassing a large multipart Flushglaze fixed rooflight from Glazing Vision. The rooflight works to fill the entrance lobby with natural daylight and helps to create a lofty, open space with character.Utilising frameless rooflights to accentuate this highly contemporary home, CDC Studio have adopted the perfect balance of imagination and persistence. Designed as a ‘forever home’ for their retired clients, this house is accessible, highly contemporary, low energy, sustainable and secure.Having approached CDC Studio, to create a home which was not too big for two, but big enough to accommodate village parties and wider family coming to stay.CDC Studio replicated the thatched barn and knitted into the local community, encapsulation the character of the village through local crafts and materials of flint, red brick, timber shutters and estate fencing complimenting this with the use of zinc to echo the agricultural aesthetic of the original land use.Adopting a thoroughly modern approach, the kitchen, dining and living spaces are open plan to allow for social gatherings and to provide a smooth flow throughout the home. With three Glazing Vision secure by design flat rooflights along the roofline, natural daylight is allowed to fill the property and create an open space for the homeowners to enjoy.The kitchen sits under a column-free, steel rod hung mezzanine with acoustic damping which was rigorously engineered to avoid the reverberating noise. This creates a sense of enclosure to the kitchen whilst allowing CDC to achieve the fully flexible family / party space requested beyond.Two Glazing Vision electric Visionvents have been included to deliver a continual air flow running through the property and providing a constant temperature and source of natural daylight into the entertainment area of the home.To compliment the contemporary style of this house, a Glazing Vision Sliding over Roof rooflight has been installed, whereby the entire section of glazing retracts out onto the roof space, leaving open, unimpeded views of the sky above. When closed, the amount of glass is maximised to maintain an almost frameless appearance.“CDC Studio have been specifying Glazing Vision for a number of years and our clients have always been very pleased with the results. A combination of standard products and the option to deliver a bespoke solution means that Glazing Vision cater for all types of projects and affordability whilst products are well made and come with the addition of guarantees.” Delphine Dryer, Associate Director CDC Studio.The character of the thatched barn is emphasized by embracing its full height to the ridge, offering modest but usable guest rooms wrapped in painted timber boarding. These were identified for immediate family use, the height helping to overcome their narrow nature on plan, integrated wardrobes, back panels and pegs for hanging make them hard working spaces. A separate master suite spreads into the new volumes providing dressing, bathroom and a private patio area which offers the clients a place for quiet retreat when guests are staying.The house boasts its own private ‘Gin and Tonic’ balcony. The mezzanine space creates a private second sitting area with a concealed timber stair nestled between concrete sheer walls to provide access. It is quiet yet connected to the main space, and commands views to the west with a fully opening sliding over roof rooflight to let the outdoors in. A separate guest suite and shower room afford privacy to occupants and visitors alike.The extended roofline and orientation provide solar shading to the solar controlled west facing glazing with the careful positioning of rooflights to prevent overheating in the height of summer, plus water runoff is directed to a salvaged historical water trough which the clients will use to water the garden. The linear design is extended into the immediate landscape with water rills extending out like fingers into the wider area which over time the clients will begin to accentuate with their planting.This project showed the right combination of imagination and persistence, creating a home which not only fits in with the local village heritage but also manages to stand out and create a ‘wow factor’ for those which bask in its glory.“We have recently been impressed with their ability to comply with the secure by design requirements which not all companies seem aware of. We have used the fixed and venting rooflights on our Stacked house and Y house and a massive bespoke sliding rooflight on our Parkhouse which the clients adore.” Delphine Dryer, Associate Director CDC Studio.

Formica® Laminate was chosen for hospital project thanks to the vast array of solid colours within the door collection.

For many years there has been significant research into the control and elimination of germs. Repeated outbreaks of MRSA and C Difficile in hospitals has certainly prompted us all to question the methods used to combat germs in our environment.

High quality wooden gates can make a real statement at the entrance to your home, that is as long as they are protected with a high quality finish and looking great! These Iroko gates are making the right kind of statement with some top quality TLC and a beautiful finish provided by D1 Pro and Owatrol Deco.The Iroko gates in this case study had previously been coated with Danish Oil. It was now not making the right kind of statement and definitely needed to be stripped before a new finish could be applied. Roger at R & A Pressure Washing Services Ltd. set to work stripping the gates using Prepdeck.If your gates are remaining in-situ throughout the project then you’ll need to use Aquanett (for wood oils) or Dilunett (for paints and other finishes) as they are gel formulations which won’t run. In this case, the gates were removed so they could be laid flat for the application of Prepdeck.To use Prepdeck simply apply it to the surface with a brush and leave it to work for an appropriate length of time. When the coatings are lifting scrub the surface and rinse with water to remove the residue. You should then immediately neutralise the surface of the wood with Net-Trol. Roger then left it to dry and then lightly sanded the surface with a 60 grit orbital sander for a super smooth finish – this step is not essential though.Using D1 Pro to protect Iroko GatesWhen Roger had completed the preparation of the gates it was time to apply the D1 Pro. D1 Pro’s place is inside the wood, where it saturates it, feeding the wood with oil to replace those lost. It drives out moisture and air, filling the woods pores with oil, and enriches and stabilises it to provide long lasting protection with high UV resistance. D1 Pro enhances the natural beauty of the wood whilst being easy to maintain, requiring no sanding or stripping.D1 Pro is applied ‘wet-on’wet’ which means that you apply coats one after the other without allowing the oil to dry in between and continue until the wood is saturated and will take no more oil. To apply D1 Pro you start by applying a first generous coat. Work in areas that can be coated in 15 minutes. Allow time for it to be absorbed into the surface (15-30 minutes). Apply a second application as soon as the first has been absorbed. Allow to dry.Continue in this way until the wood will not accept any more oil, i.e. it is saturated. Then wipe off any excess to avoid shiny spots, you should be left with a rich matt finish. Work like this in sections to prevent the surface from becoming touch dry in between coats. Roger needed 3 coats of D1 Pro for his iroko gates.Using Owatrol Deco to protect metal work on wooden gatesRoger then used Owatrol Deco, our rust-inhibiting multi-surface primer and finish. This enabled him to have a high gloss black finish which would also provide long-term protection against corrosion and the effects of the weather. The Owatrol Deco is applied in 2 coats, allowing the first coat 24 hours to dry before applying the second.We think you’ll agree, it’s a pretty big transformation and these gates are now making the right kind of statement!

The extraordinary, purpose built SuperLab in Oxford provides much needed lab space and fantastic facilities for the next generation of science entrepreneurs and innovators. The new state-of-the-art building is located close to the city centre and the university, which spins out around 15 science firms a year. Created and built by Oxford-based Robin Swailes Design and Development, the SuperLab offers almost 7,000 sq ft of accommodation for up to 84 staff and blends contemporary design with the latest efficiency features while meeting the needs of the modern workforce. The building is made of 95 per cent recycled aluminium and features a grey water system using collected rainwater to flush the toilets, thermal efficient panelling, air source heat pumps and solar panels to minimise its carbon footprint and keep running costs as low as possible. Metal Technology Ltd supplied a range of its high-performance glazing products for this unique development via approved fabricator Alternative Windows. Products used were: System 17 Curtain Walling, System 5-35Hi Tilt Turn Windows, System 4-35Hi Fixed Casement Windows and System 10-35 Thermally Broken Commercial Doors. Curved walls, round windows and open ceilings create a sense of space and wellbeing, topped off with advanced acoustics, quality finishing touches and a playful interior. The result is an inspiring and design-focused workplace that encourages collaboration. Outside, a roof top recreation area provides space for al fresco meetings, eating and drinking with views over Oxford’s Dreaming Spires. A fantastic project to have been involved in, which ultimately encourages young and innovative science pioneers to stay and further their career on home soil.

This project was completed in July 2018 in Guernsey. It involved lining approximately 1000 linear metres of metal guttering to a large office and manufacturing centre using Liquasil's liquid gutter lining system, Gutterseal. Made in the UK from advanced silicone polymer, the finished result is a seamless, leak-free gutter