"water meters"

Exchange Square, designed by DSDHA, is a refurbishment of a major 1.5-acre public park above the tracks of Liverpool Street Station in London. Our terrazzo was supplied throughout, including water features, amphitheatre steps, paving and planter edges with complex 3D pieces. The challenge for In Opera was to provide over 3000 pieces, 90% of which were unique and many having to fit into each other perfectly. The 1.5-acre park will see a four-fold increase in the amount of planting and dramatically enhance biodiversity, with 25% of the area featuring green space that is accessible to all.Quadrupling the amount of green space at Broadgate, the aim is to boost the emotional and physical well-being of those that work at Broadgate and the local community while supporting British Land’s commitment to sustainability and biodiversity.We are proud to have been involved in such a major development, which aims to draw people together and help the communities thrive in a better environment. What was once a dark uninviting space has been transformed into a light and welcoming place where people can truly live, where communities and businesses can thrive, and that helps the planet to flourish. It is a more attractive, less corporate environment for Broadgate, which creates places to dwell, not just pass through.

The purpose: Water penetration into classrooms alerted theOfsted “outstanding” rated Colchester County HighSchool for Girls in Essex to a problem with its roofs.Its premises advisors, Archer Building Consultancy,turned to Langley to offer technical support for themost efficient best-value rectification, with fundingprovided by the school’s governing body, The AlphaTrust.Our solution: We carried out an in-depth roof condition report which highlightedthat the four flat asphalt and 10° pitched copper standing seamroofs urgently need repair.We advised the most efficient solution and use of resources wasto strip the copper roof back to the plywood deck and form a newwaterproof layer from our TA-30 Flat Roofing System and theasphalt roofs overlaid with TA-30 and our Liquid Roofing System.By leaving the original roof, we were able to minimise disruption.In the process, we assessed the roofs for their suitability forphotovoltaic (PV) installation, then helped address energy costs:one over a three-storey building was deemed appropriate. Finally,in partnership with Archers, we supported the detail required toapply for Salix funding to cover the supply and installation of thePV array.

A raised garden patio has been secured by a glass railing, supported by SPIG-LITEadvanced. The first few images of installations have been arriving and we love this one by Veon Glass Ltd. A raised patio must have it’s edges protected, but not everybody likes the look of wood or metal railing options. Glass provides a sleek and modern aspect to the garden. The SPIG-LITEadvanced raises the glass above the ground, allowing water to flow beneath, making it the ideal balustrade solution for poolside or wet areas. The product is lightweight and compact, enabling easy and quick installation. As with all Pure Vista products, the glass angle can be adjusted to ensure the glass is perfectly aligned. The best windbreak solution, when you have a view, is glass balustrade. As can be seen from the photos, the glass provides protection from the wind and allows a clear line of sight onto the lawn. A great solution for this family home and everybody can enjoy watching a game of football from the patio. To find out about what building regulations require of your glass balustrade project, refer to our building regulations web page.Installation and photos by Veon Glass Ltd.

PROJECT BACKGROUND: A mobile trailer was adapted into a Covid PCR Testing Laboratory.The staff test 6-7 thousand saliva pots every three weeks.REQUIREMENT: Temporary modular steps to replace the existing ones to the trailer. The current steps were too steep and narrow, with no handrails and platform.END RESULT: We installed fully compliant temporary steps, which included infill handrails and a platform for turning space.We matched the hire period for the mobile laboratory. Once no longer needed, the steps will be removed by our installation team. Removal is a service included in our rental package. The steps are fully compliant with documents M & K of the building regulations.FEATURES INCLUDED: Infill Handrail - this product prevents users from climbing or falling through gaps.Yellow Tread - this is a safety feature designed to help those with impaired vision identify the nose of each step. Additionally, it helps users distinguish any level changes.Trombone Ends - these are added to the ends to prevent clothes catching.Mesh Platform - the self-draining mesh allows water to pass through rather than collect on the surface.Continuous Handrail - this handrail system ensures users always have support to hold onto.

Hotel Café Royal has just undergone a complete refurbishment and internal re-build. Part of the new complex is a state-of-the-art Spa and Gym which is located in the basement. Directly next to the hotel is Regent Street, below which runs the Bakerloo underground train line.Structure-borne noise levels from the trains were far too high to create the relaxing environment required for a top class Spa. The acoustic consultants therefore specified that all of the noise sensitive spaces must be isolated on a Stravifloor Deck concrete floating floor system.Café Royal’s 1,200 sqm Wellbeing Centre provides a personal and intimate holistic experience. It has a large lap pool and four different areas, corresponding to the four natural elements: spa/water, gym/fire, yoga/air and organic bar/earth.The spa offers a variety of Watsu hydro-experiences, a private and communal Hammam and signature Akasha treatments. Moods are enhanced by restorative music, aromas and gentle lighting. The gym has the most advanced fitness equipment, including Kinesis machines. There is a spacious aerobics studio and a private training room. Yoga, Tai-Chi and Pilates are offered in the calming area, with bespoke classes.

The Old Saltings has been created on the middle floor of a nineteenth century saltings, situated right on the beach at Porthmeor in St Ives, Cornwall. What was once a place where pilchards would have been packed and salted, has now been dramatically transformed into a stunning contemporary apartment sleeping up to 8 guests.The spacious kitchen has been designed to make the most of the sea views as well as top of the range appliances and fittings. The brushed-satin stainless steel sinktop from GEC Anderson further enhances the light and contemporary living space. Practical, twin sink bowls are seamlessly integrated within the continuous stainless steel worktop-run that also includes an integrated hob. The back upstand provides water safe and hygienic detailing that is typically demanded by discerning and knowledgeable specifiers.Architect Cany Ash of Ash Sakula said, “The GEC Anderson stainless steel worktop provided edge detailing and a finish which was better than the usual alternatives normally associated with catering applications. We especially like the jointless, continuous nature of the surface area. The other benefit of stainless steel is that it is hard wearing, which is very important in a holiday apartment where it will get significant use.

Lincoln bowl has recently undergone a major washroom refurbishment to give their bowling alley a much-needed makeover. The renovation consisted of a whole washroom revamp from flooring to washbasins, taps, urinals and even the less-abled washroom facilities. The main aim of the project was to make their washrooms stand out as much as the bowling alley itself. Franke Water Systems provided over 20 washroom products for the revamp, including a range of Dart Valley branded taps, WCs, flush valves, hand dryers and a range of Miranit composite wash troughs for the male and female toilets.The full range of products provided were:2 x WC03-002 - WC flush valve kits 1 x WC03-002 - WC flush valve kit 2 x WC02-011 - Concealed plastic cistern kits 1 x WC02-011 - Concealed Plastic Cistern Kit 3 x UC07-010 - Urinal control systems 3 x UC00-001 - Backflow Preventers 3 x AT03-011 - Aquarius deck mounted A45 taps 1 x AT00-004 - Three station mains Kit 1 x ANMW411 - Single Quadro Miranit wash basin 1 x ANMW421 - Double Quadro Miranit wash basin 1 x DRYX500N - Hands in hand dryer 1 x F1390 - Airblast Hand Dryer

Top-of-the-range lab solution for a major new production siteNext to the company’s headquarters in Aalen, 70km east of Stuttgart in Southern Germany, Papierfabrik Palm – one of the leading European manufacturers of papers for the printing industry, corrugated base papers and corrugated packaging – has built a brand-new paper mill. Its scale alone sets it in a category of its own: Palm invested half a billion Euros into the project, and to supply the production process with the required amount of steam, the site relies of the two largest water boilers in the world.This new paper mill, though, is just one of many milestones. Founded in 1872, Papierfabrik Palm operates in the meantime 33 production sites. In 2020, the company generated 1.5 billion Euros in global revenues. In terms of size and success, Palm epitomises the ‘hidden champions’ of the German economy ­– family-owned businesses that have combined highly professional management with ambitious international growth strategies to expand far beyond the usual bounda­ries of the category. In addition – and today more than ever – Papierfabrik Palm is ideally positioned to reap the benefits of sustainability: since its inception, the company has been using exclusively recycled raw materials.

High-rise riverside apartment building refurbishmentLocated on the banks of the River Thames, Ocean Wharf is a high-rise apartment building that can be subject to salt-water spray during high tide and windy days. Timber decking had previously been fitted on the balconies and had started to deteriorate, as well as being identified as a fire risk by the Fire Risk Assessor.A high-quality decking system was required to replace the existing balcony decking. The chosen solution needed to have a premium look and feel in line with the luxury standard of the development. Luxura, being A1 fire-rated and resistant to salt which could have affected other types of decking, was the ideal choice for this project.As the installer hadn’t installed non-combustible decking before, they required some on-site support from our team who were able to provide a toolbox talk and check ongoing progress. This resulted in a fantastic end result with the installation completed to a very high standard.“The material was completely new to us, so we were a bit hesitant at first. However, now that we have experienced it, we wouldn’t want to use anything else.” - Installer, Ocean Wharf

Cranbrook Primary SchoolBauder Total Roof System (BTRS) with Tapered insulation schemeSynopsisCranbrook Primary School in Ilford, London, was experiencing some major water ingress due to the advanced deterioration of the existing roof system. A roof survey was conducted by Stuart Parratt, Bauder area technical manager, where core test samples were taken to identify the existing roof construction to deck level and to provide an indication of the roof condition. The survey revealed that the existing waterproofing was in extremely poor condition, with extensive evidence of water ingress.  Bauder Building BoardProject:Cranbrook Primary School Location:LondonProject Type:RefurbishmentRoof Area:440m² Client:London Borough of Redbridge Council Approved Contractor:Thameside Roofing Ltd The specificationThe original waterproofing had been poorly overlaid with EPDM which had subsequently debonded. Before the installers could begin laying the new system, they had to strip the substrate back to the original asphalt. The client required a robust system that would deliver durability, value and longevity. 390m² of bitumen waterproofing, Bauder Total Roof System (BTRS), was specified for the main roof areas and 50m² of our cold applied liquid waterproofing, LiquiTEC, for an area that had limited upstands due to clerestory windows that could not be repositioned. Products appliedBauderPIR tapered insulation  A lightweight and cost effective alternative method of providing falls to a roof, whilst also providing thermal insulation. The client opted for this scheme at Cranbrook to minimise standing water on the roof. Bauder Total Roof SystemA two-layer bituminous waterproofing system robust enough to withstand foot traffic and most permanently sited plant. For use within warm and cold roof scenarios, as well as overlaying existing roofing materials. BTRS meets current UK Building Regulations Part B for external fire protection and features torch-free and safe to torch installation on combustible details. LiquiTEC Cold Applied liquid waterproofing Utilising Bauder’s PMMA cold applied liquid waterproofing on one of the roof areas ensured a fully watertight solution around rooflights and below upstands that could not be raised.  Project challengesAlthough the deck appeared to be in a reasonable condition for reuse as part of the refurbishment, there were large deflections to some areas and the existing waterproofing that overlaid the original system had been poorly installed and had pulled away from the asphalt below and so needed stripping prior to works commencing. The existing insulation was inadequate and left the building falling short of the current requirements. A thermal upgrade was incorporated into the works using a tapered insulation scheme which helped to solve the deflection issues by creating falls on the roof. To meet the minimum upstand requirements, the existing extractor vents needed to be removed to allow for the increase in the kerb height. Large continuous structural rooflights providing natural light to the building below were deemed thermally inefficient. The rooflights were upgraded during the refurbishment to meet current standards.  The resultBauder systems are only installed by Bauder approved contractors to ensure quality. The installation on this project was expertly carried out by Thameside Roofing Ltd, overseen by Dave Gregory and John White. After sign-off from Bauder site technician, Paul Osbourne, this system was awarded a comprehensive guarantee.  Systems installedBauder Total Roof System (BTRS) with Tapered insulation1 Bauder K5KHeavy duty, torch-applied SBS elastomeric bitumen capping sheet featuring a spunbond polyester reinforcement to allow the finished product to cope with structural movement without fracture, and a mineral finish to provide protection against UV degradation.2 BauderTEC KSA DUO Technically advanced self-adhesive SBS elastomeric bitumen underlayer with “DUO” lap technology to ensure thorough sealing of lap joints, even in lower temperatures. 3 BauderPIR FA G16Tapered PIR Insulation board manufactured in accordance with BS EN 13165 with no facings. It is lightweight with a high compressive strength and has zero Ozone depletion potential. The product provided effective drainage as well as efficient thermal insulation.4 BauderTEC KSD FBSA technically advanced, self-adhesive SBS elastomeric bitumen air & vapour control layer, with a mica finish on the upper surface to allow easy bonding of insulation using the specified Bauder Insulation Adhesive.

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

Hexham and Northern Mart is an auction house in Hexham (25 miles west of Newcastle), specialising in the sale of livestock and cattle to farmers across the North East of England. The business decided it was time to replace its old gas-fired heating system with a more sustainable alternative – one that would not only reduce energy consumption and running costs, but also earn additional income through the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI). Minimising impact on day-to-day operations during the transition was another key consideration. Managing director Robert Addison tasked renewable energy specialist and NIBE Pro Installer Calibrate Energy Engineering with finding the right solution to meet the heating and hot water demands of the 112,050sq ft building.The SolutionThe team at Calibrate specified, designed and installed a 300 kW renewable heating system made up of five 60 kW NIBE F1345 ground source heat pump (GSHP) units. They paired this with a 50 kW solar PV array, fitted to the roof of the main pen area, which partially powers the NIBE GSHP system. The in-ground heat collectors required for the GSHP were laid in the fields around the buildings, with the controls units sited in a prefabricated plant room to the rear of the premises. The installation took just three months from start to finish, and during this time it was business as usual for Hexham and Northern Marts.ResultsDocked together in a cascade for greater output capacity, the five NIBE F1345 GSHP units now meet 95% of Hexham and Northern Marts’ 394,000 kW/h annual heating and hot water demand. Meanwhile, the 50 kW solar PV array generates enough free electricity to offset a significant 50% of the power needed to run the GSHP system. Hexham & Northern Marts is set to make a 236% return on investment – reaping an estimated £862,000 in energy savings and commercial RHI payments over the next two decades.Customer Testimonial“We couldn’t be happier with our new renewable heat and power sources. As well as delivering instant reductions in energy usage and subsequent savings on heating bills, the NIBE GSHP solution is providing us with a steady stream of income for the next two decades, thanks to the RHI. The power produced by the solar PV panels is an added bonus, and makes running the heat pump system even more cost-effective.“As a result, we’re expecting to see returns of more than double our original investment over the next 20 years – which is absolutely invaluable from a business point of view. Not only this, but we’ve got an efficient, reliable renewables setup that’s fit for the future, and will continue to deliver ongoing savings for years to come.”Robert Addison, managing director, Hexham & Northern Marts

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.

Chelmsley Wood Shopping CentreBauderflex bituminous waterproofing systemSynopsisChelmsley Wood Shopping Centre, located in East Birmingham, was experiencing leaks with their current flat roof waterproofing system and so they needed a quick, high quality solution to remedy the situation. Although competitors had suggested the only option was to strip the roof, Bauder found a more cost-effective answer by using our in house Troxler Moisture Gauge to identify any areas of wet roof construction, removing the saturated areas and then overlaying the whole roof area.Bauder Building BoardProject:Chelmsley Wood Shopping Centre Location:BirminghamProject Type:RefurbishmentRoof Area:4500m²Specifier:Black Cat ConsultancyApproved Contractor:BBR Roofing LtdProject challengesThe works were to be undertaken in the middle of winter on the existing single ply covering which kept freezing when the operatives were drying the surface. Fixing down of the insulation boards (to the existing waterproof covering) was a noisy operation which also exposed the retail tenant below to risk of water ingress. Work had to be undertaken on a roof where ridges and valleys had to be navigated whilst managing the waterflow.The specification allowed for the removal and replacement of the saturated areas as identified by our moisture mapping survey. This operation had to be planned to ensure that the retail stores were not put at risk in terms of water ingress, but still managed to keep the works progressing to schedule. This was particularly difficult due to the exposed site and the inclement weather encountered. The resultAs a result, Large sections of cable bespoke design had to be developed with Bauder to overcome these challenging site details without the need to decant the retail tenants below. trays and handrails had to be lifted in situ so the roof works could be completed without compromising electrical or mechanical install.By working closely with the centre, a method of work was developed which fulfilled these criteria in terms of waterproofing, health and safety and business protection of the shopping centre. System installedBauderflex bituminous waterproofing system1 BauderFLEX K4EA torch applied SBS elastomeric bitumen capping sheet, featuring spunbond polyester reinforcement to allow the finished product to cope with structural movement without fracture.2 BauderTEC Sprint DUOA self-adhesive elastomeric bitumen underlayer with DUO lap technology. This product has a glass fleece reinforcement feature for stability and strength.3 BauderPIR FA-TEFlatboard insulation boards containing rigid polyisocyanurate (PIR).4 BauderTHERM DS 1 DUOA self-adhesive SBS elastomeric bitumen air and vapour control layer (AVCL) with patented “DUO” lap technology to ensure thorough sealing of lap joints, even in lower temperatures.

Unrivalled in scale in the UK as a hub of engineering and material science expertise, the new Manchester Engineering Campus Development (MECD) embraces the refurbished, Grade II listed Oddfellows Hall, the MEC Hall and buildings on Upper Brook Street and York Street. Brick played a crucial role in creating the campus and, to find the perfect products to fulfil their aesthetic vision, the architects turned to Vandersanden.The new campus is one of the largest construction projects undertaken by any higher education institution in the UK. It will allow 1,300 staff and 7,000 students to work and study in spaces that enable connection, collaboration and concentration across the faculty.Working with Mecanoo, Penoyre & Prasad and Balfour Beatty Construction, BDP provided detailed design consultation services for the entire MECD project. The collaborative team completed the sensitive renovation and extension of Oddfellows Hall to accommodate a suite of conference rooms, academic workspaces and a restaurant.Originally built in 1857 and rebuilt in 1916, Oddfellows Hall anchors the new MECD to its formative past. Set back on the north side from the listed building, the modern extension presents a neat facade where Vandersanden’s Berit water-struck facing brick, which is white with a light texture, is coupled with areas of glazing and tile. “The approach to the scheme has been to add a twenty-first-century building of its time but in continuity with the existing language, using materials such as brick and glass,” explains Paul Owen, architect associate at BDP.Configured horizontally, the elements wrap around the façade of the extension to create a strong connection to both the north and south facades of the older building. The aesthetic is enhanced further by a combination of narrow brick piers and vertically proportioned windows. A defined brick plinth at ground floor level achieves additional visual interconnection between the old and the new.On the roof, the plant enclosure uses the same Vandersanden Berit brick as the façade, but the structure is set back from the parapet line. A hit and miss pattern allows for ventilation of the mechanical and electrical equipment inside as an elegant alternative to standard ventilation grilles.On Upper Brook Street and York Street, the new buildings are of solid brick that includes feature brick vertical and horizontal elements to articulate the façade and frame the window openings. Again, the brick is from Vandersanden; in this case, the company's Herning water struck brick with a dark brown-purple-blue multi-coloured appearance.“The technical advice the team at Vandersanden gave was incredibly helpful while the bricks offer great visual appeal. In the long term, they will age gracefully in combination with the existing material of Oddfellows Hall, ensuring the new extension sits well in its context,” says Paul Owen.For more information on the development go to https://www.mub.eps.manchester.ac.uk/science-engineering. For details on BDP visit, www.bdp.com and to find out more on Berit, Herning and the wide range of high-quality bricks available from Vandersanden, visit Together we build greatness | Vandersanden

BackgroundFor the perfect example of architectural excellence which not only delivered an impressive aesthetic, significant environmental benefits, and a more robust structural foundation, but also improved thermal performance, look no further than the eight-storey, three-building Building Safety Fund (BSF) project Devonshire Mansions.Situated in beautiful Eastbourne on the south-east coast of England, Devonshire Mansions were an extremely attractive choice for those wanting stunning sea views and some peace and privacy. However, due to their location in a high exposure area, the buildings were aged and weather-beaten, and required a full overhaul and refurbishment to modernise, align with current safety regulations for high rise buildings, and strengthen the buildings at their core whilst rejuvenating the exterior.Understanding and appreciating K System’s renowned ability for outstanding refurbishment projects, Pavehall contracted K Systems to completely refurbish this residential development and deliver on the following four primary objectives:- Remediate unsafe cladding- Improve the thermal performance rating of each home- Update and seamlessly replicate existing façade features- Deliver a solution with acoustic benefitsOur ServiceIn collaboration with Archiflair Design, Pavehall, and Fullers Plastering, K Systems delivered an industry-leading, insulated façade solution that fulfilled the desired criteria, achieved a U-value of 0.26 W/m²K and resulted in an outstanding architectural structure.The commitment of K Systems team, their continuous communication, in-depth level of reporting, and consistent presence on site not only ensured a perfect refurbishment, but also instilled 100% confidence in the supply chain throughout, showing exemplary levels of customer service.This project is a great example of how K Systems overcame various construction challenges to deliver within the agreed time constraints.The make-up of the façade had multiple protrusions in forms of balconies meaning that every sheathing and insulation board had to be cut to fit. Replicating this without compromising on the strict site deadlines was a challenge but under the great install team and K Systems’ expertise and onsite presence, this was achieved.Additionally, Devonshire Mansions had a problematic substrate and challenging aesthetic deliverables. Working closely with all partners, and utilising digital technology, K Systems mapped out the refurbishment and specified the ideal solution to Pavehall for implementation.Technical Project DetailsAfter a comprehensive scoping process, K Systems discovered that the existing system had a drained cavity build up and when removed, the sheathing boards were compromised by water. With the buildings being high rise, steel frame and multi-occupancy, the industry-proven K Systems Exicco Cavity Drainage EWI System was specified.In the Exicco system, the drained cavity behind the insulation ensures that any interstitial moisture escapes without detriment to the performance of the system. Due to their seafront location, Devonshire Mansions were prone to fierce rain and water exposure, so this system was the ideal choice to ensure any future moisture or condensation build up was allowed out to avoid compromising the substrate or newly installed façade.Once the strip out of the existing façade had occurred, further challenges were discovered – the substrate was far from line and level. This meant that every rail within the newly installed EWI system had to be packed out using steel shims to create a level vertical façade, subsequently adjusting the specified fixing lengths to suit.Some elements of the substrate were high strength concrete incorporating a flint aggregate which proved problematic for standard mechanical fixings. Via K Systems’ on site support, a suitable, more bespoke fixing was specified which ensured proper anchoring of rails and intumescent fire barriers. A swift solution was achieved with no detriment to the construction programme.The newly installed Exicco system was combined with the K Systems M (Mineral Wool) system. This high performing system provides optimal levels of fire resistance and noncombustibility and its installation at Devonshire Mansions meant that the fire classification of the buildings was upgraded to A2-s1,d0 meaning that the development is now compliant with the latest building regulations for all high-rise dwellings in England, further ensuring the safety of residents.Devonshire Mansions is visually impressive with its feature balconies, architectural cornices, ashlar panelling and quoin detailing. It was a specific requirement of the client to remediate the unsafe cladding without losing these exterior design features.K Systems created two specifications; one for the elevations and one for the balconies and provided bespoke detailing to allow them to seamlessly harmonise as one façade. Ashlar panelling and quoin detailing was replicated cost-effectively using varying thicknesses of non-combustible mineral wool insulation which was over-rendered skilfully by the contractor using K Systems Silicone Thincoat render.The more intricate cornice features were all bespoke manufactured using compliant non-combustible materials and integrated into the design with K Systems providing robust detailing to create a water-tight barrier and eliminating cold bridging. Decorative columns were installed at ground level to complete the façade.The eye-catching, waterfront dwellings were finished with Silkolitt+ - a versatile, easy to apply, water repellent, durable, and low maintenance thin coat render, perfectly paired and formulated for use with our Exicco systemOverall, K Systems specified a fit-for purpose, non-combustible façade with a high level of complex architectural detailing using cost effective solutions. The installation process was overseen by our unrivalled site support team who were frequently on hand to solve any issues as they arose.“Working alongside K Systems on a project of the size and nature of Devonshire Mansions was a true pleasure. From initial scope and specification to intricate detailing and innovative finishes, the K Systems team lead by example and made the process and delivery a slick and seamless operation. The refurbishment was a complex case but working together in partnership, we all delivered on excellence, and the beautiful Devonshire development is something we can all proudly put our names to.”James Fuller, Fullers Plastering

BackgroundK Systems’ retrofit of the REEMA non-traditional construction Properties in Swindon, South-West England, is a stellar example of the company’s ability to harness years of expertise with forward-thinking innovation to meet the needs of its clients.Swindon Borough Council had a development of 50+ properties in Upper Stratton all with aged facades and poor thermal qualities, some with U-values as inadequate as1.59W/m ² K.K Systems supported Swindon Borough Council, led by Projects Surveyor John Black, to completely refurbish this residential development and deliver on five primary objectives:- Improve the thermal performance rating of each home (SAP rating)- Deliver greater thermal comfort for residents- Choose a solution with acoustic benefits and non-combustable benefits- Reduce tenants’ energy consumption- Deliver an attractive aesthetic that would uplift the areaHaving a good reputation for matching systems with finishes to deliver its clients’ visions, K Systems partnered with approved installer, Rateavon Ltd, to scope out theproject and specification in fine detail, with particular focus on insulating properties and aesthetic.Our ServiceK System worked in collaboration with Swindon Borough Council and Rateavon Ltd to upgrade these poorly insulated houses and deliver a total revamp of the properties, resulting in thermally efficient homes.One of the primary requirements was to improve the performance rating of each home, with a target U-value of 0.30W/m²K. In fact, K Systems exceeded that in the project delivery by achieving a U-value of 0.29W/m²K.The project was completed with minimal disruption to existing residents, and due to forward planning and regular site visits by an experienced K Systems project manager, where processes and progress were monitored and evaluated, the project was completed within the agreed timescale.Digital technology was deployed from the very beginning to produce models and CGIs (Computer Generated Imagery) to not only assure Swindon Council the finished project would meet its specific requirements, but to also guide the design process and ensure compliance with all health and safety regulations.Regular inspections and site audits were carried out alongside Swindon Council to ensure the same level of care and attention to detail that applied when specifying theproject was being applied during its implementation and delivery.Technical Project DetailsOn initial inspection, K Systems found a problematic substrate. The REEMA hollow panel non-traditional construction properties are constructed of a concrete frame with thin concrete panels to the exterior façade. This type of thin panel construction created a significant challenge for the team to find a suitable EWI fixing, but with the help from Rawlplug, one of our EWI fixings suppliers a robust and safe fixing solution was found, without compromising the existing REEMA construction.Harnessing years of EWI system design knowledge and unrivalled expertise in this field, K Systems worked closely with Rawlplug and a structural engineer to identify a suitable fixing detail and pattern which would not only be robust but also suitable for this type of substrate.With a structurally strong solution agreed, focus then turned to the appropriate insulation solution.After a comprehensive scoping process taking into consideration client requirements, project objectives, budgets and timeframes, K Systems specified the industry proven K Systems M, Mineral Wool EWI system to not only significantly boost thermal performance of the buildings but also reduce noise pollution for the tenants.K Systems 100mm Mineral Wool insulation has an industry-leading ability to generate exceptional thermal performance. That made it the perfect choice for the refurbishment as it would combat the increased heating costs faced by residents whilst retaining the solid foundations of the existing building and reducing the risk of condensation or mould damage.Other technical benefits which made the K Systems Mineral Wool system the ideal specification for this refurbishment include:- non-combustibility, A2-s1,d0 fire rated- its excellent acoustic properties, reducing noise pollution- its environmentally friendly composition as the insulation is free from gases with ODP (ozone depletion properties) or GWP (global warming potential)- its workability and easy to cut format, reducing labour time across the board for the team.Having identified solutions that improved structure and thermal performance, K Systems then offered the best quality finish for the properties – an aesthetically pleasing, cost effective combination of VBriQ+ clay brick slips and Silkolitt+ silicone render that both Swindon Council and the residents would be proud of.VBriQ+ is a lightweight, highly durable, clay brick slip system and a more cost-effective finish option in comparison to tradition brick systems without compromising on quality, weather resistance, workability and durability. This made it perfect for a project of this scale – a project which required maximum and long-lasting impact without incurring maximum costs.The Silkolitt+ silicone render finish rejuvenated the properties’ exteriors and massively enhanced the area’s overall aesthetic, making it a much more appealing place to set up home.Yet again going the extra mile for clients to ensure unrivalled workmanship and longevity, K Systems finished all 52 properties with K Pro - a water-based protective treatment used to provide long term enhanced water repellent properties to external render and other masonry surfaces, helping combat the problems associated with water intrusion including efflorescence, frost, water-soluble pollutants and algae growth meaning the substrate will stay clean and dry for longer.K Systems and approved installer Rateavon Ltd delivered an excellently designed and expertly executed refurbishment, that exceeded the expectations and requirements of the client, Swindon Council, and the residents of the newly improved homes.John Black, Projects Surveyor at Swindon Borough Council, said:“Throughout the project K Systems have supported Swindon Borough Council agreeing all detailing to ensure current day Building Control Regulations were met. They supported resolutions throughout the project lifecycle and were really reactive, visiting site and supporting when required. They carried out weekly detailed spot check reports with photographic evidence and also checked batch numbers of materials. They delivered a great service. A really successful project.”

Kirstine Roepfstorff, is an internationally renowned Danish artist who has developed the integrated art piece Hydra for Kanalbyen. Hydra uses water, light and plants to give life to the multi-storey car park that will house the residents’ cars. “Art creates value, and what Kanalbyen has done is both brave and forward-thinking,” says Roepfstorff. “Car parks are essential, but they’re usually lacking in life and a place people don’t consider as anything more than convenient, but actually they can be spaces where people meet each other and experience something,” she explains. The roof of the parking lot will have rainwater collectors creating an organic system within the concrete building. The huge facades will be covered in concrete murals, making for an interesting focal point in a building that is otherwise mostly ignored. Kanalbyen in Fredericia, a beautifully located previously industrial city with views over Lillebælt and with fortifications from the 17th century still surrounding the city. Kanalbyen is, and will be, an integrated, modern, inclusive and sustainable part of Hydra Parking House, Fredericia Harbour, Denmark, where locals and newcomers alike will benefit from how well thought-out the planning process has been. It is bound to be one of the most interesting developments to follow over the coming decades. Featuring EQUITONE [lunara] in Pebble

The Project A new Leisure Centre at Dudley is part of a multi-million-pound Leisure Centre program and regeneration of the area. The new facility will include a 25metre swimming pool, teaching pool, four-court sports hall, gym, exercise studios, soft play area, and caféDudley Council has committed £17.4 million to the project in the heart of the town centre. Working in partnership with Alliance Leisure, through the UK Leisure Framework, the council will create a vibrant modern hub for residents and workers to enjoy a range of physical activities.The ChallengePropose a system suitable for a wet, high humidity environment including Cubicles, Ducts, Vanities, Lockers & Benches. Ensure the material used and the system proposed is suitable for a high traffic environment. Changing cubicle divisions to have increased height at the rear of the cubicle to prevent users standing on the bench and peering over. Fully framed cubicles to be free standing & self-supporting, positioned in centre of the changing area. Create a locker area suitable for use by wheelchair users. The SolutionSolid Grade Laminate was used throughout the scheme. 12mm core boards, self-supporting, highly durable and impervious to water penetration.Hydroline system installed as a fully framed island constructed cubicle with profiled division panels at 2400mm.

Owner: Aberdeen Asset Management Principal Contractor: Cemplas Waterproofing & Concrete Repairs Ltd Main Products Used: EMSEAL SJS systemCemplas has recently completed repair works at the Elmsleigh Shopping Centre in Staines, which included the replacement of deteriorated and failing mechanical movement joints in the service decks. The Centre’s retail units are supplied via ramps to these service decks, which carry the delivery traffic above the stores, plus the decks are also used for car parking, meaning that in addition to being fully exposed to weathering, they are subject to almost continuous dynamic loading from traffic up to and including heavy articulated HGV’s. Unfortunately, despite past attempts at repair and resealing, there had continued to be water ingress through these joints, both into the structure and into the retail units that are directly below, resulting in disruption, damage and cost for everyone involved. The innovative Emseal SJS system that includes integral cover plates, but with no mechanical fixings required, was selected by the Project Engineers as being ideal to accommodate the necessary movement, seal the joints and withstand the traffic loadings. Additionally, as access was only required from the top deck to install the Emseal SJS System, Cemplas was able to carry out the works quickly and keep disruption to an absolute minimum.

REQUIREMENT: Compliant ramped access to the recently built outdoor classroom. END RESULT:The ground in the front of the entrance is split between tarmac and a barked area. The tarmac is slightly higher and solid, whereas the barked area is a soft surface. Due to this, weed membrane was rolled over the barked area, and the ramp feet on that side were fixed to concrete slabs.All legs were adjusted accordingly to achieve a level walkway with a compliant gradient of 1:15.The ramp fully complies with Document K and M of the Building Regulations.FEATURES INCLUDED: Infill Handrail - this product prevents users from climbing or falling through gaps.Telescopic Legs - these can be adjusted to accommodate different threshold heights.Yellow Tread - this is a safety feature designed to help those with impaired vision identify the nose of the ramp and any level changes.Trombone Ends - these are added to the ends of a Rapid Ramp to prevent clothes catching.Mesh Platform - the self-draining mesh allows water to pass through rather than collect on the surface.1100mm High Rail – these handrails attach to any level sections.Continuous Handrail - this handrail system ensures users always have support to hold onto.Standard colour: Black - Ramps are powder coated black to create a durable finish that is tougher than conventional paint.

Lakeside Developments is a unique development offering a selection of six to seven storied apartments, semi-detached and detached houses situated in Coleraine. The homes have been designed to exceed expectations of modern buyers. A cost-effective, aesthetically pleasing, and sustainable facing brick was required to complete the scheme.The exclusive housing development has been ‘highly commended’ in the sustainability category at the Placemaking Awards which celebrates projects, plans, people and organisations that are making places better.The unique project, described as one of the most unique and visionary civil engineering projects ever attempted in the UK, has transformed the 42-acre redundant quarry into a modern housing development with a lake, which was formed using water that had been pumped out of the site.According to Alan Patterson Design the project demonstrates its environmental credentials through its ‘engineering initiative and excellence’ in the re-use of the redundant basalt quarry to meet present day housing needs.AG’s facing brick Woodward in Ashbrooke Smooth was chosen due to its hard-wearing capabilities and long-lasting colour retention. The smooth finish of the brick gives a modern appearance to the houses.Additionally, Homepave Cobble Paving was selected for the walkways and garden of the new development. Due to its rumbled surface, it provides a charming additional to the scheme

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

Royal Arsenal Riverside sits at the heart of Woolwich and occupies a prime location along the River Thames.The development is delivering 562 apartments and ground-floor commercial space on a 1.1ha site that forms part of the wider Royal Arsenal Waterfront. The scheme comprises three buildings of varying heights over a common single-storey basement.The ambitious waterfront scheme transforms an underused parcel of land into a new, thriving neighbourhood that enhances its surroundings. It is located at the end of the new linear park which aspires to establish a unique relationship between town and water; linking the town centre in the south to the river frontage in the north.Our high-performance metal riser doorset, Quadra was used throughout the development. Perfect for concealing fire-rated riser doors, access panels, and internal doors in corridors, landings, and other access areas; Quadra+ is supplied as an integral, four-sided frame and door system, pre-constructed to form a single robust unit. Ideal for hidden commercial access solutions, Quadra+ is designed and manufactured to the highest standards.A design innovation – Quadra+ is the original riser doorset from Selo, now featuring an Adjustable Frame to enhance installation speed and fire compliance. The screw-operated adjuster bolts allow for simple and secure Quadra+ frame installation.

Client: Cheval ResidencesLocation: Edinburgh, ScotlandSector: Hotel, Leisure & HospitalityYear: 2021Project Size: 150 m²System: vebroscreed Renovatevebroscreed Renovate, from Vebro Polymers, bonded to marine ply and concrete, has been installed across the ground floor reception and concourse leading to the bar area and restaurant.vebroscreed Renovate is a single part, fibre reinforced, cementitious smoothing underlayment screed, incorporating a blend of graded fillers, fine cements, and polymers, with excellent flow properties. The material is mixed with a cold-water addition to deliver a fine flow slurry that can be both pump and pour applied. The material has been used to level the existing concrete surface prior to the installation of terrazzo and ceramic tiles, which have been chosen in keeping with the listed building’s new interior scheme. Incorporating a specially formulated fibre technology, vebroscreed Renovate aids application and strength resulting in a strong, sound and even base that is ready to commence the tiling process after only 8 hours.All screeding on site has now been completed and the site turned over to the tilers, who are on track to complete ahead of building’s opening in a matter of weeks and to coincide with Scotland’s relaxation of international travel restrictions. 

CHALLENGEIlam Park was a popular tourist destination in the Peak District with a parking problem. The main car park is paved with asphalt but their sloped overflow car park suffered from rutted, unsafe and uneven surfaces due to poor drainage and puddling. More asphalt would create water runoff and drainage problems elsewhere so a permanent and durable permeable paving solution was required.SOLUTIONHanpaveTM was chosen as it’s a freedraining system that’s tested to bear almost any vehicle. There are no more problems with rutting or uneven surfaces. It’s also highly durable, weather-resistant and made from 100% recycled plastic. When installed on a properly engineered permeable base (no pipes or ducting required!), it can be in-filled with gravel or grass for an attractive, stable base that becomes virtually invisible to the average user.CONCLUSIONHanpaveTM was installed in 2019. We called in on a very wet day in November 2022 and the HanpaveTM grids were in excellent condition. Surfaces were even, rutting was gone and, even in torrential rain, puddling could only be found in areas paved with asphalt – not HanpaveTM. Despite some extremely hot summers, Hanpave’s unique expansion absorbing design and professional installation have given Ilam Park an effective, longlasting and attractive solution to their overflow parking problems.

Even if your sun beds have spent the majority of the British summertime inside, it’s still vital to give them a good clean before applying any kind of finish.Net-Trol, is a fast-acting and powerful wood cleaner, neutraliser and colour restorer, that will effortlessly remove any surface or ground-in dirt on your untreated sun beds, leaving the wood looking vibrant and bright. Designed to remove all traces of weathering that have been caused by UV rays, pollution and mildew, Net-Trol’s main purpose is to prepare your sun beds for their finish.One of the great things about Net-Trol is that it is non-aggressive, so it’s harmless to your plants. We think is an essential element of any product that is going to be used in the garden. Plus, it’s biodegradable and doesn’t contain bleach or solvents.Even better, it works in as little as 15 minutes and using it should mean that you won’t need to undertake any time-consuming, backbreaking sanding. You can just sit back and relax while it works its magic.Applying Net-TrolBefore starting, you will need to wet your sun beds with fresh, clean water.Then, simply apply Net-Trol with a synthetic brush or roller and scrub your sun beds with a stiff synthetic brush.Leave it to work for 10-20 minutes. If you notice that the surface starts to dry, you’ll need to dampen it with a mist of water.If your sun beds were particularly dirty, you may need to repeat the procedure.You’ll now need to let your sun beds dry for at least 48 hours before applying any kind of finish.One of the great things about Net-Trol is that you can clean your tools with soap and water. There is no need for any white spirits!Finishing with TextrolTextrol, our penetrating oil finish developed for weathered wood, is available in 7 different colours, so you can give your sun beds a finish to suit your garden.This product has been developed so that it penetrates and protects wood from within, so it won’t form a film that could crack, peel or flake. Additionally, Textrol has in-built UV protection and will also protect your sun beds from moisture damage.As well as keeping your furniture safe from the British weather, Textrol will also enhance the natural beauty of the wood.One of Textrol’s main selling points is that it can be applied ‘wet-on-wet’, so you won’t have to wait for coats to dry during application.The maintenance is also extremely easy, with local touch-ups and no backbreaking sanding necessary.When you first apply Textrol to your sun beds, it will give them a rich, matt colour. This should gradually lighten over time to give you your finished look.Applying TextrolTextrol is applied in ‘wet-on-wet’ coats. Apply your first coat of Textrol then leave it for 15-30 minutes. This will allow time for it to penetrate into the wood but not to dry.Then, apply another coat of Textrol and leave it for another 15-30 minutes.You should repeat this process until the wood of your sun beds will not accept anymore oil. Then, wipe off any excess oil that hasn’t penetrated into the wood. This is important to ensure that you avoid shiny spots.It’s vital that you don’t allow Textrol to become touch dry between coats.That’s it – you’re done!Can I follow the same process if my sun beds are treated?If your sun beds have been treated in the past, you will need to use Aquanett or Dilunett before applying Net-Trol, in order to remove any previously applied treatments.Aquanett is our solvent-free wood oil remover, which will help to prepare your sun beds for their new coating. Aquanett is suitable for environmentally sensitive areas and as it has a gel-like consistency so it won’t run everywhere.After using Aquanett, it’s important to treat your sun beds with Net-Trol while they are still wet. This is because you need to neutralise the wood.If your sun beds have been painted, you should use Dilunett, our solvent-free paint remover, to prepare your sun beds for their makeover. Dilunett has also been developed with a gel-like consistency. This makes it ideal for use on the legs of your sun beds and underneath, as it won’t run onto the floor.Again, after applying and removing Dilunett, you should immediately treat your sun beds with Net-Trol, while they are still wet. This is to neutralise the wood.