Building News is an information portal for all professional building specifiers. Here you can find all of the latest construction news from around the UK and the rest of the world.

Modern methods for modern developers

Urgent need for homes, environmental impact, efficiency

#constructionindustry #sustainable #architects #localauthorities #contractors #developers #efficiency #environment #mmc #housing #watermanagement #smartmeters

 

In recent times, three major themes have emerged for developers: satisfy the urgent demand for homes, minimise environmental impact, and how best to make those homes more efficient or “smarter”.

Water Services on Tap – The business benefit of plug and play systems
Modular Construction systems are probably the only way by which the UK can achieve the necessary build program to meet demand, quality, consistency and speed of construction.  However, utility connections can often be the weak link in this improved efficiency.
Water supply is perhaps the most important item within the critical path of construction and is probably the most difficult to achieve. Imagine a situation where your services can be fully installed prior to moving on site, with surface mounted meters allowing ‘plug and play’ style installation.

With Groundbreaker water management system, you have that ‘plug and play’ option – no need to imagine. 
The only system of its type, it is designed to be installed at any time during the construction period.  Fully compliant with Water Regulations, it provides an accessible, safe and secure location for the water meter and controls to a specific property.
The concept is simple.  Water services are connected to an externally mounted, pre-installed water service control.  The pre-installation and certification of plumbing can facilitate early approval of water services to a plot.  This allows flexibility in the management and scheduling of connection to the mains supply.
There is no need for boundary boxes or meter housings in the footpath, and this simplification of the connection allows for improved efficiency and reduces the time required for highway closures.

 

 

Smarter water management:
Government initiatives, directives and plain common sense are driving the construction industry towards the smarter home where an internet speed of 1Gb/second is the standard specification. With Groundbreaker water management system, properties are future proofed to allow for easy installation of ‘Smart Water Meter’ technology as it is introduced across the UK.
Utility companies have not been slow in recognising the benefits of a ‘Smart Home’.  The ability to interrogate and manage energy usage at any given time of day or night has been recognised as an effective way for householders to reduce usage and manage costs
The reductions in energy usage have not been matched in the water industry.  The perception of the environmental impact of increased demand on water is not as widely recognised.  Indeed many, certainly in the UK, see water as a limitless resource.  Knowledge is the key to changing minds.  Trials have shown that metering reduces consumption, and ‘Smart Meters’ improve awareness of usage further.
Gas and electricity meters located on external building walls have enabled easy upgrades and any introduction to countrywide ‘Smart Meter’ programme.  However, the traditional location of a water meter in a metal-covered hole in the public highway is not conducive to this new way of thinking. A ‘Smart Water Meter’ located in such a situation is exceedingly poor in transmitting a signal even to a local pick up.
The best location for a ‘Smart Water Meter’ is on an external property wall  – co-located with other utility meters. Recent field trials of Groundbreaker have proven that the range of such meters can be over 3Km (2 miles).  The impact on data collection is massive.  The improved data transmission range could allow for single point data capture in towns the size of Norwich or Coventry.

Design out leak paths: comply with Water & Construction Industry Guidelines comply with “Water Safe” initiatives
The increasing demand on this limited resource has resulted in a focus on water network losses.  The water and construction industries have launched a joint initiative to reduce leakage from water service pipes, reduce demand and to provide a smarter platform as noted above.
Groundbreaker supports this initiative, meeting the best recommendations of Water UK and the Home Builders Federation.  The unique location of the Groundbreaker water management system allows for an unjointed water supply, minimising the risk of developing future leaks.

For further information, check the Home Builders Federation Guidance. https://phpdonline.co.uk/news/watersafe-partners-with-the-home-builders-federation-to-reduce-water-leaks-in-new-properties

www.groundbreaker.co.uk

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MASONRY FOR THE FUTURE

The design of the blocks is such that they require no mortar or adhesive

#constructionindustry #architects #localauthorities #contractors #developers #buildingtechnology #mmc #clayblocksystem #thinjointadhesive #structural @evolvedsupplys

 

The JUWO Evolved SmartWall™ Building System – thin joint masonry for the future

The Evolved Supplies JUWO Evolved SmartWall™ building system consists of a monolithic clay block system which gives a modern method of construction with thin joint adhesive technology.

The design of the blocks is such that they require no mortar or adhesive on the interlocking vertical joints. The fired, aerated clay blocks are manufactured to a tolerance of 1mm in height and come as a complete system that includes lintels, corner and shaped blocks, insulated mortar, adhesive and applicators.

These structural blocks have been used for many years across Europe and are suitable for load bearing and non-load bearing walls, for external & internal applications. They have full LABC approval and comply to BS EN 771-1 and carry the CE mark with an A1 fire rating, making them the ideal building system for low and high rise developments as well as for the self-builder.

SmartWall™ Benefits
• Excellent Thermal Performance.
•  Meets & Exceeds Building Regulation requirements.
• Quick Construction Time.
• Single solid wall construction.
• Modern Method of Construction
• Thin bed mortar technology
• Complete Building System.
• 85% less moisture in construction
• Completely Vapour permeable
• External Insulation to give that ‘tea cosy’ effect

Clay is possibly one of the most sustainable materials used in construction. It is a natural material that it easy to work with and provides a comfortable living environment.

SmartWall™ explained
The Smart Wall system delivers a much faster build time. The thin joint adhesive allows you to continually work without being restricted to the number of lifts in a day, on average, up to 40sqm can be achieved per person per day.

SmartWall™, being a monolithic building system, means that you have just one skin for your building structure, no cavity, therefore minimising areas for complicated detailing and areas for insulation to be missed.

 

 

With standard masonry systems, drying out can be problematic in the UK climate. The adhesive layer helps to reduce moisture in the building by over 85%, this, coupled with the faster build time, means that your building can be roofed and weathertight in a much shorter period of time.

The adhesive mortar comes as part of the SmartWall™ system & has been designed for use in temperatures from 0°C, so winter working is not a problem.

Efficiencies & Performance
The SmartWall™ building system has a superior thermal performance compared to other similar products, making it easy to achieve Building Regulation requirements without the need for additional wall insulation or increase in foundation size.

The thermal performance of SmartWall™, together with the density of the blocks, provide excellent thermal mass. Too many modern homes face the risk of summer overheating. The SmartWall™ system provides warmth in Winter and comfort in Summer. The clay will also regulate humidity levels within the home and it is recommended that a mineral plaster finish is applied directly to the blocks to maximise this performance.

Air tightness is achieved by applying a ‘parging’ coat of wet plaster to the inner face of the blocks. This is a standard method of achieving good air tightness and recommended by the Passivhaus Institute.

By applying a vapour open render finish to the external surface of the blocks, coupled with the mineral plaster inner finish, SmartWall™ provides a complete vapour open system. Thermal modelling shows that interstitial condensation will not form within the construction.

The SmartWall™ system provides a thermal bridge free method of construction without the need for complicated detailing.

Being manufactured from clay, the SmartWall™ blocks have an inherently good fire performance and have a rating of A1 reaction to fire.

The SmartWall™ System has been developed for anyone to use and Evolved Supplies can provide ‘on-site’ training, if requested.

For more information, visit the website or call 01691 707100.

www.evolvedsupplies.co.uk

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A RALLY CRY FOR CONSTRUCTION

The construction industry and our ability to Build Build Build is key to the UK’s economic recovery

 

#construction #construction industry #sustainable #architects #local authorities #contractors #developers #innovation #building technology #mmc #insulation #flat roofs #adhesives #retrofit @SFSintec

 

Innovative Fasteners & Heat Induction Technologies Enable Faster Flat Roofing Installations

The construction industry and our ability to ‘Build Build Build’ is key to the UK’s economic recovery. Martyn Holloway, Business Development Manager – Flat Roof at SFS (pictured), discusses how innovative fastening systems can lead to fast and reliable single ply flat roofing installations.

COVID-19 has put the world on pause – and the construction industry in particular has been hit hard, with 680,000 employees on furlough at one point.
Of course, the government recognises this cannot continue. The rhetoric is ‘Build Build Build’ to get the construction industry, and the UK economy, on the road to recovery. It is vital though that we can turn this rally cry into practical measures for those on the front line of construction – our contractors and installers.

Solving an age-old challenge – Speed of installation
Site productivity is one element that is more important than ever. This is needed specifically to help with offset delays following the introduction of site operating procedures as a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic. Also, with autumn and winter coming, there are the more traditional delays such as extreme weather conditions to contend with.
Then there’s the challenge of the shortage of skilled labour, which has been exacerbated by a heavily furloughed workforce. This, combined with an ageing workforce, means there is a real need to train new site operatives.

Amendments to existing building regulations, guidance documents and operating procedures are adding complexity to the industry which in turn is increasing time pressure on site. Then, there’s the intricacies of installation itself that installers must deal with.

Tapered insulation challenges
One such example is ‘cut to fall’ insulation systems. Growing in popularity for new build projects, these can be particularly challenging for installers.
Also known as tapered roof insulation, the aim of this system is simply to provide drainage when the roof deck itself does not provide adequate falls. This is achieved by increasing the thickness of the insulation to provide the slope and run off for the rainwater.

However, when using a conventional mechanical fixing solution to install the insulation, there is typically a myriad of different fastener lengths needed to allow for the change in insulation thickness. In turn, this increases the complexity and time on the job for roofers.

Concrete deck challenges
If ‘cut to fall’ insulation is being secured to a concrete deck, this can also slow down installation. Using conventional flat roofing fasteners may require pilot holes up to 100mm deep in order to rationalise fastener lengths, significantly adding to the drilling time.

Adhesive system complications
One of the biggest challenges for installers is if they are using an adhesive system to secure the membrane and insulation layers. Weather conditions on the day can severely hamper progress, and the design is limited by a specified maximum wind load. Additional time is required to prime the deck and adhere each separate layer, including the Air and Vapour Control Layer (AVCL), insulation and membrane.

Adhesive systems also rely heavily on the skill of the installer to apply the correct weight of adhesive bonding agent per square metre for each of the AVCL, insulation, membrane and other layers required. If not secured correctly, the membrane will need to be reinstalled, adding unnecessary time onto the job.

Retrofit risks and difficulties
Another area where installers can hit snags is on retrofit roofing installations. Here, roofers will often face existing layers of membrane and insulation. These are typically overlaid with new membrane and insulation layers. However, using adhesive to attach these new layers and by not securing existing and aging layers, this risks potential faliure of the roof.
Additionally, new or existing cut to fall systems or existing tapered screed layers will lead to a variation in the build up at any single point. Installing traditional mechanical fastened systems therefore requires installers to use a variety of fastener lengths across the roof, adding significant time and complexity to the install.

Making Haste with Mechanical Fixings
These challenges can all be overcome with innovative mechanical fixings, which can securely fix every layer of the roof, provide reliable performance and long life warranties.
Compared with adhesive systems, mechanical fastening systems are less weather dependent, and can be used in all exposure zones. For refurbishment and new build concrete decks, pull out testing will assist in calculating the appropriate fastener design load. When used in conjunction with the project wind load calculation, the correct fixing pattern can be determined to ensure a safe and secure installation.

 

For tapered insulation challenges on concrete decks, installers can use the innovative TIA system from SFS. This height adjustable insulation fastener solution is specifically designed to self-adjust to the insulation thickness, as the fastener engages with the telescopic sleeve and the result is a considerably simplified install.
Drilling time is greatly reduced using the TIA system too, as it requires just 35mm deep pilot holes for all settings. When compared to the conventional practice of drilling up to 100mm deep pilot holes for tapered schemes on concrete decks, this typically equates to 60% less drilling.

When the heat is on, use heat induction
A final area where contractors can speed up jobs is by using heat induction welding technology, such as the patented isoweld® system from SFS, to install singly ply membranes. Since its launch, more than 15 million square metres of single ply membrane has been successfully installed.

This technique uses electric heat induction to weld the membrane to a specially coated metal stress plate located underneath. The result is an extremely secure fix without penetrating the waterproof layer.

Each plate only requires three seconds to weld, and the SFS isoweld® system is also easy to set up and calibrate. Suitable with both PIR, EPS and mineral wool insulation types, the heat induction technology can be used in conjunction with PVC, TPO and EPDM single ply membranes.

The membrane fasteners are installed in field fix patterns in comparison to the traditional lap fixing and therefore significantly fewer fasteners are required. Typically up to 50% fewer fasteners are required and the isoweld® field-fix system allows installers to use the widest membranes available which substantially reduces the extent of seam-welding required.

The TIA fastener system can be used in conjunction with isoweld® to offer a faster and more cost-efficient install for concrete decks.

A secure roof, a secure future
Embracing new innovation opportunities such as TIA and isoweld® is critical if we are to recover quickly. By incorporating new roofing technologies, site productivity increases, roofers can be more efficient, and profitability goes up.

SFS is doing all it can to help installers and contractors during these difficult times not just to secure roofs, but to secure futures as well. From the provision of office and site support, through to maintaining the supply of product from our factories, we will continue to go that extra mile and provide the industry with assistance where required, including efficiency savings through product innovation.

www.sfsintec.co.uk

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WRAPTHERM GETS FULL BUILDING REGULATIONS APPROVAL

High-performance membrane composite, self-adhesive specifically for refurbishment

#constructionindustry #sustainable #architects #localauthorities #contractors #developers #buildingtechnology #mmc #thermalairtightness @proctorgroup

Wraptherm has been awarded certification from both LABC and LABSS confirming that the product meets Building Regulation approval in England, Wales and Scotland. Wraptherm will improve airtightness levels whilst at the same time addresses the need to reduce thermal bridging in refurbishment projects.

The high-performance membrane composite is self-adhesive and is specifically developed to be applied during the refurbishment of existing buildings where there is a requirement to enhance the thermal and airtightness performance of the building. Wraptherm can also be used in new build construction where the reduction of thermal bridging and improving the airtightness is required, e.g. around steel lintels or around concrete columns.

 

 

Wraptherm consists of a 10mm Spacetherm aerogel insulation blanket bonded to the face of Wraptite, the industry recognised vapour permeable, self-adhesive airtight membrane.

When applied to the internal face of the existing façade, Wraptherm provides a vapour permeable yet airtight layer, fully self-adhered to the substrate beneath with the added benefit of a 10mm thick layer of high-performance Spacetherm insulation blanket.

Over this airtight/thermal composite framing can then be installed with the added benefit of a reduction in thermal bridging due to the Spacetherm layer. Where required, additional thermal insulation can be included within the frame to meet the specific U-value requirements of the project.

The offset nature of the Wraptite component allows for a completely robust sealing of all of the joints within the panel thereby ensuring the continuity, integrity and robustness of the airtight layer.

 

www.proctorgroup.com

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A Very Modern Solution

(MMC) to play key role in helping construction adapt to the NEW NORMAL

#constructionindustry #sustainable #architects #localauthorities #contractors #developers #innovation #buildingtechnology #mmc #cladding #newnormal #offsite #VUCA @Aquarian_Cladd

 

With the coronavirus pandemic affecting almost every industry, modern methods of construction (MMC) will play a key role in helping construction adapt to the ‘new normal’. Paul Richards, MD of brick cladding systems supplier Aquarian Cladding Systems, has seen the rise of MMC first-hand and explains why it will become even more important as the industry gets to grips with the ‘new normal.’

VUCA times (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity)  

Technology and the use of data are hailed as the solution for most industry sectors to become safer, more predictable, and more profitable in increasingly volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) times.
It could be argued that the construction industry has always experienced degrees of VUCA, but this time the case for the use of MMC as a solution is more compelling than ever, as it addresses the increasing number of challenges that we face.

Builders have always been under pressure to reduce construction costs and complete buildings on time. They must also consider the use of sustainable and thermally efficient materials. Having greater control over the construction process is vital and the controlled environment of offsite manufacturing or design and assembly of fewer components on site ticks most boxes.

MMC is not a ‘one size fits all’ solution and options vary from full turnkey, volumetric solutions to panellised or factory-assembled components – designed using the very latest visualisation and scheduling software technology. Key to the use of MMC is its ability not to compromise the appearance or performance of a building.

As brick facades seem more popular than ever in British architecture, so brick cladding systems are increasingly being used to give a building its traditional appearance and robust protection, with the advantage of being a modern method of construction.
We are experiencing greater demand than ever for our cladding solutions, as they offer all the benefits of an offsite solution but with the hybrid flexibility to be adapted on site too. Speed of delivery and installation, reduced build programmes and reduced prelim costs, including replacing scaffolding with mechanical access, are all major benefits of MMC.

Our brick cladding systems come in a wide choice of natural colours and finishes. Using brick slips formed from fired clay and pointed with natural mortar, a building will therefore still have a familiar, traditional appearance. Even tired looking buildings can benefit from a new lease of life, with negligible extra load and overall wall thickness.

 

 

Brick cladding systems are lightweight and versatile and therefore suitable for application either offsite or onsite. The reduced weight and support requirements mean reduced line loads, framing and foundations, with greater productivity and cost efficiency.
They are also more sustainable and will therefore reduce the environmental impact of conventional brickwork, due to the use of thin brick slips and less mortar. There is less material and embodied energy in production, fewer deliveries to site, reduced movement and storage on site, and less waste disposal.

Pedigree
Despite being classed as a modern method of construction, brick cladding systems are not quite as modern as many might think.
Our Gebrik system is a factory-produced, panelised alternative to conventional brickwork and is supplied in a kit of parts, including all components needed to create a brick façade. It has been produced since 1982 and so used across Europe for almost 40 years. Here in the UK, it has been used on buildings exposed to most extreme UK conditions including height, coastal conditions, and high pedestrian access.

Gebrik is fully tried, tested, and certified, and has been used on many award-winning projects throughout the UK and Europe. It’s BBA certified for application to most common substrates and has been successfully tested to CWCT test methods for weathertightness. It has also been fire tested on a number of occasions with different interfaces to BS8414 and on each occasion successfully met the BR135 ‘Pass’ criteria.

An ability to adapt
With Building Regulations changing across the UK, the only route to compliance for residential buildings above 18m is for the use of non-combustible, or limited combustible, i.e. A1 or A2, materials.

Our Mechslip and NaturAL-X brick cladding systems use brick ‘tiles’ with unique profiles to enable them to each be mechanically secured onto metal cladding support rails and subsequently pointed. Both systems have been tested to CWCT test methods for weathertightness and under EN13501, are classified as A1 so are suitable for use on buildings in excess of 18m (as well as those below).
For those wanting to minimise the risks associated with traditional construction, modern methods of construction such as brick cladding systems simply can’t be ignored.

Gebrik, Mechslip, NaturAL-X or Terreal have been used on many award-winning buildings across a wide range of sectors. Working with architects, contractors, developers and installation specialists, Aquarian’s team of cladding experts will provide the right solution, whatever the project.

www.aquariancladding.co.uk

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BUILDING BRIDGES WITHIN LIGHT STEEL FRAMING

Raising awareness of light steel frame technology

#construction #constructionindustry #sustainable #architects #localauthorities #contractors #developers #lightsteelframing #LSFA #offsite #buildingtechnology #fasteners @EJOTUKindustry

EJOT looks to fastening technology to build bridges within light steel framing

EJOT UK has recently chosen to join the newly launched Light Steel Framing Association (LSFA). The UK subsidiary of this global fastener manufacturing giant is not alone in making this strategic step, with several other manufacturing OEM’s and market leading system providers opting to make the same decision.

Since its inauguration a little over 12 months ago, the LSFA has set a clear objective to raise awareness of light steel frame technology across all building sectors, notably the exacting demands of offsite construction. Working closely with its members, the LSFA has set out its stall with a dedicated mandate to engage and educate the wider industry by highlighting the performance, productivity, and sustainability benefits light steel framing technology offers.

 

 

Historically, dedicated categories within EJOT’s traditional construction fixing portfolio have developed in tandem with light steel framing systems. As the latter have become an integral part of the modern building envelope – so EJOT has developed niche fastening solutions to satisfy growing market demands. For the fastener manufacturer, this has been most evident within application areas such as rainscreen and façade installation and external thermal render systems.

Utilising cross-sector expertise
However, the progressive development of offsite construction and its potentiality to the future of the industry is opening the door to utilise EJOT’s cross-sector expertise in order to capitalise on its engineering knowledge, worldwide research and development capability –  all of which contributes to advanced fastening technologies that feed into applications that span virtually all assembly based products found in every corner of the globe. Unlike any other fastener manufacturer concerned with construction oriented products, this gives EJOT unique market positioning by bringing together products and expertise from the industrial and engineering sectors, thus utilising this fastening technology by integrating it into the products and installation techniques that we see on building sites today.
Whilst already an established sector, light steel framing can also be identified as one that will grow and develop to meet many future needs of an industry that is without doubt, going to face fresh challenges in balancing productivity against more focused legislation and the demands of an expectant local and global economy.

As one might expect, cross sector collaboration is not without its own cultural differences.  EJOT’s traditional product range for the construction industry has in essence, evolved historically to provide high performance solutions for known on-site applications, delivered on time to where and when they are needed. It is a fast-moving flow of solutions and support.


In contrast, EJOT’s industrial engineering fastener capability worldwide is based upon a more long-term ethos of project development, managed side by side with customers. That often means modifying or re-engineering fastener thread, material – even coating technology – to arrive at a bespoke solution that delivers greater assembly and application performance efficiencies. So whilst the undeniable inevitability is that as original manufacturers of such a vast array of fastening applications across so many industrial sectors, the science of thread-forming, metallurgy and organic coatings, have cross-pollinated all of the sectors via a learning curve on all sides, not least what could equally be badged ‘the science of installation technology’.

Synergy with lightweight engineering assembly
EJOT’s application engineering team will tell you that the joining of different lightweight material compositions within engineering applications is as much to do with the measured precision of installation tools and techniques as the fastening products themselves – and it is here that synergy between EJOT’s overall expertise matches the potentiality of the light steel sector.
EJOT’s Technical Business Development Manager in the UK is Brian Mack:

“We are already seeing the adaptation and integration of highly technical industrial engineering processes into the planning and specifications for various modes of offsite construction and this will transform next generation building processes.
“As an example, we are finding increasingly that innovations developed for automotive assemblies are supporting the development of construction products and installation processes, with engineers on both sides of the fence now sharing common ground within joint project arenas”.

Such innovations in engineering technology include revolutionary fastening systems for vehicle frame assembly known as ‘body-in-white’. Such integration of products and installation programmes are now vastly contributing to the global need to ‘build lighter, build stronger’. Fully automated and semi-automated solutions developed in conjunction with industry partners such as the screwdriving specialist Deprag, are already proving to be pivotal in delivering an engineering-based approach to a rapidly developing construction sector.
Brian Mack continued:

“The development of cross-industry solutions via the origination of new technologies and products can support best practice and the progressive needs of light steel framing, especially within the MMC, volumetric and modular off-site sectors that we are already heavily involved with”.

Dedicated research, development and testing
Testing and technical support for the development of fastening products and installation systems is provided by the EJOT Applitec Centre which is based within the company’s UK manufacturing centre in North Yorkshire – with additional expertise provided by sister laboratories around the world. The investment made locally and internationally within all of these centres is evidence of the Group’s commitment to support the objectives and forward-thinking approach of institutions such as the LSFA.
Globally EJOT operates 15 manufacturing centres in ten countries, employing over 3,100 people. In addition to the manufacturing operations the Group has 34 subsidiaries in 32 countries, with six research and testing centres in strategic locations. EJOT has also developed partnerships with several academic institutions, aimed at maintaining the development of advanced fastening solutions for the future.

EJOT’s UK manufacturing centre is in Sherburn-in-Elmet, North Yorkshire. Visit the website or call 01977 687040.

www.ejot.co.uk

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Totally Modular Secures a ‘Hat-trick’ of Innovate UK Grants

Three projects that are key stepping stones to progress in the MMC evolution.

#construction #construction industry #sustainable #architects #local authorities #contractors #developers #innovation #building technology#MMC #housing crisis #grant awards @totallymodular

 

After months of hard work and collaboration, Totally Modular have successfully secured a hat-trick of Innovate UK grants as part of the Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund & UK Research and Innovation, following three successful submissions to the Transforming Construction Challenge.

This success, is a unique achievement that highlights Totally Modulars strong commitment for driving new innovative methods to enable positive transformation within the UK construction sector for numerous reasons. These projects will unlock the much needed MMC innovation which is vital to overcome the current UK housing crisis, creating highly skilled and paid jobs of the future and set global standards for house-building.

The three trail blazing projects are;

1)  STELLAR – Supporting SMEs and Social Housing Providers to embrace Modern Methods of Construction – Totally Modular has created a consortium of academic, technical, industry and end-user stakeholders with the of intention of producing a common steel framing platform that can be utilised without the need to start from first engineering principles each and every time designs change alongside the demonstration that a satellite manufacturing facility can be fully operational within a shortened time frame whilst negating the need for a multi-million pound capex investment.

 

2)  Enabling Housing Innovation for Inclusive Growth – Totally Modular are proud to have been chosen as a delivery partner for such a high profile project with the aim being to deliver multiple developments within Bristol City Councils region demonstrating residential assets whilst encompassing the many facets of R&D that MMC innovation offers.

 

3)  IGNITE – Integrated, Intelligent, Digital Tendering System – Working with one of the UK’s prestige housing associations, Places for People, Totally Modular form part of a consortium that aims to implement an integrated software solution that will transform housing design, costing, tendering and manufacturing for MMC delivery. It will create a transparent procurement process for housing developers and MMC suppliers, and give certainty of specification back to housing providers and asset managers.

 

The variety of scope from the projects shows Totally Modulars commitment to the whole MMC journey, as the projects show a combination of accelerated housing delivery, digital planning and production technologies that will enable the industry to attain new levels of quality, variability, and efficiency.

John Connolly, Managing Director of Totally Modular said,

“In business you often plan for the worse and hope for the best, however in being awarded three Innovate UK grants via the recent Transforming UK Construction call, which having been advised by our partners is a unique achievement for a UK based SME, we are quite overwhelmed with this outcome which demonstrates the level of importance that is being placed on changing the way we build in this country!”
 “This achievement, by all of the various individuals involved from all consortium team members, is a testament to their hard work and commitment and should be greatly recognised by the organisations they represent and most importantly, the outcomes of all of these projects will deliver the benefits that residents of affordable housing will need going forward to ensure they have a safe, comfortable and future proof environment to call home.”

Simon Hart, Head of Construction for Innovate UK said,

“The Transforming Construction Challenge is transforming the places where we live, work and learn using digital manufacturing techniques. In a sector worth over £100 billion a year in the UK, around 6% of GDP. It is one of the most vital industries in the country. The challenge will support the industry in adopting technologies and help buildings to be constructed 50% faster, 33% cheaper and with half the lifetime carbon emissions.
It is fantastic to see the successful investment in innovation that Totally Modular have made towards these goals. My team and I would like to congratulate Totally Modular on their recent grant awards and we look forward to working with them over the next two years to maximise the impact of the projects.”

The innovation that drives these projects will showcase better delivery, enable more certainty and transparency during the design, construction and operation of MMC housing. Therefore, increasing asset availability, lifespan and maximise performance.
As Totally Modular are a SME volumetric, offsite manufacturer they believe that these three projects are a key stepping stone to progress this MMC evolution.

www.totallymodular.co.uk

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Deceuninck: the commercial fenestration expert

The latest innovatons in window technology for developers and specifiers

#construction #construction industry #doors #sustainable #windows #architects #local authorities #contractors #developers #innovation #building technology @deceuninckUK

 

John Duckworth, Deceuninck Head of Commercial Sales explores the role of suppliers in assisting in the design of commercial projects.

Although sometimes overlooked, windows and doors are a crucial part of the build process, providing natural light, ventilation, and architectural interest. And the latest innovations in window technology give developers and specifiers a choice of materials, styles and designs to choose from.
Coupled with advice and guidance from experienced window suppliers, the very best of this window technology works seamlessly with modern construction methods to create the right aesthetics, reduce installation time, and improve the building’s overall performance.

Products designed for commercial applications

Deceuninck is a leading window systems company with a thriving commercial business. Our windows and doors are engineered to create the perfect symmetry and balanced sightlines that translate into beautiful looks and performance, combined with outstanding security, energy efficiency and weather performance. Deceuninck’s flagship commercial 5000 window with Linktrusion™ technology is a popular choice with developers. Linktrusion offers the best attributes of aluminium and PVC-U in one system, combining pultruded glass-fibre with PVC-U for strong but light windows with slim sightlines and outstanding thermal efficiency. When used with Deceuninck’s Decoroc colour finishing system, it’s hard to distinguish it from aluminium in looks, touch or performance.

 

 

Commercial partnerships

Deceuninck has strong ties in the commercial and housebuilding sector, working with a number of prominent developers including Berkeley Group, Crest Nicholson, Countryside Properties, Weston Homes and Catalyst Housing. Product is just part of the offering. Our strength in the commercial sector comes from our ability to work with all parts of the supply chain and give advice in the early stages of product specification. Our commercial and technical teams and partner fabricators have extensive experience in off-site, modular and steel frame construction and we offer guidance on the interface of windows in modern construction methods, working with EPDM suppliers such as Tremco at specification stage. We work closely with developers, specifiers, fabricators and contractors to see the full picture of how windows work within the build, be it timber frame, steel frame or modular, to ensure products meet technical specifications and are correctly installed and perform effectively in the finished project.
A recent example of this close collaboration with supplier and client in providing a full design solution came in the Springfield Park development with Weston Homes. This was a complex development of over 300 apartments in one tower and three low storey blocks. It incorporated a concrete frame construction with the windows fitted on front of the frame in steel brackets, followed by EPDM shrouding. Deceuninck’s commercial and technical teams worked with window fabricator FastFrame to provide the technical information required for the interface and correct installation of the windows. Our Linktrusion 2500 Fully Reversible Window (FRW) in Decoroc Quartz Grey successfully broke the original specification for aluminium because it combined slim, contemporary profiles with outstanding thermal and acoustic performance. The development, close to roads, railways and the river Thames called for acoustic windows to minimise the impact of external noise and low U-Values to meet stringent energy requirements. Deceuninck’s FRW comfortably met these requirements with decibel reductions in the mid-40s and U-Values as low as 1.3 W/m2K.

Experts in modular developments
The Hinkley Point Worker Accommodation development was another technically demanding project in which 80% of the 1,400 windows were installed into pre-fabricated modules off-site. Working in partnership with fabricator Dempsey Dyer, Deceuninck’s technical team ensured our Tilt and Turn windows met the highest energy and weather requirements both off-site and in installation. Once assembled, the windows passed the most stringent CWCT water testing, normally only used for curtain walling. Deceuninck’s technical team worked with Dempsey Dyer to successfully cut the windows’ decibel rating down by RW35db to RW40db and RW43db, helping to minimise the impact of noise on workers to make a quieter, healthier environment.
More recently, Dempsey Dyer has started supplying Deceuninck’s 2500 series windows for university student accommodation. This modular construction project in conjunction with Bouygues will see the windows shipped to Morocco for installation in a modular factory, with further commissioning on site in the UK. Together with Dempsey Dyer, we’ve facilitated this project by giving advice on design, purge ventilation and interface detail. Dempsey Dyer is also sending a team to Morocco to train workers on effective modular installation. It’s an exciting project and we predict the strong trend for modular construction will continue to grow.
Call 01249 816 969 or the below website to see more commercial case studies and learn more about our commercial work. You can also download Deceuninck’s full product portfolio from the NBS National BIM Library at www.nationalbimlibrary.com/deceuninck-ltd.

www.deceuninck.co.uk

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A Material Supplier’s Responsibility to Offsite & Modular Builders

Modular & MMC the success of this approach is key to the future success of our construction industry, challenging suppliers to seek a much wider knowledge resource

#construction #constructionindustry #sustainable #architects #localauthorities #contractors #developers #innovation #buildingtechnology #MMC #modular #suppliers #adhesvies @LiquidPlastics

We hear a lot in the media relating to Offsite Construction, Modular Buildings and Modern Methods of Construction – the success of this approach is key to the future success of our construction industry. The challenge for component or material suppliers is to be able to transfer their ideas and knowledge to the specifiers and manufacturers.  It has been my experience that we have an abundance of companies in the UK with innovative ideas for Offsite Manufacturing in the construction industry, but they may be failing to access a much wider knowledge resource.

Many material and component suppliers from diverse industries have something to offer for offsite construction, even if their heritage is not from a construction background. I see my responsibility as bringing positive ideas to the table and helping manufacturers to avoid reinventing the wheel. Here are two examples from my own organisation’s experience.

 

Adhesives Create Opportunities
My first example is the rail market.  In the 1980’s most trains and carriages were constructed using traditional joining technologies (welding, rivets, and other mechanical fixings).  This limited design possibilities and with a greater reliance on a very skilled workforce, created a restriction on what could be achieved.  With the main train manufacturers, Sika worked on providing elastic bonding systems which helped in so many ways.  It allowed design flexibility as alternative materials could be used.  Mixed materials could be joined, with the use of bonded solutions allowing structural integrity to be improved dramatically.  Bonded processes allowed greater process repeatability which in turn improved quality and reduced the requirement for skilled labour.  The use of elastic and structural adhesives is now common amongst all rail rolling stock manufacturers.  I would make the same recommendation to the Offsite Construction market – there is an alternative to the mechanical fix norm.

Dramatically Improve Efficiency
The second example is the automotive Industry.  Whilst the offsite and modular building market still sees a degree of bespoke manufacturing, the trend is towards reducing components and design complexity, and increasing potential output.  The challenge again is that many traditional construction techniques are used where an automotive manufacturing approach will see reduced costs, higher levels of efficiency, and higher quality.  The automotive market provides vehicles of different specifications allowing customers to make choices but can still have a production line running at sub 60 seconds per work-station.  The automotive industry relies on building a critical mass of vehicles so any ideas that can level out the build process and reduce build time is welcome.  Whilst employing many engineers, the automotive manufacturers utilise a pool of highly experienced and knowledgeable suppliers to create ideas, new concepts, and novel ways to help them achieve their goals.

We Are Here to Help
I would therefore venture that the Offsite, Modular, and MMC market can benefit from a lot of great ideas and know-how from key suppliers. I would also say an investment in key partners is extremely valuable.  The challenge is for the industry to work together, to create collaboration, and more importantly to develop the right supplier partnerships.
For more information on Sika Offsite, contact James Taylor on 01707 363893 or visit the
below website.

www.gbr.sika.com

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Fastest Rise in Construction Activity for 2 years

June data pointed to a sharp turnaround in the performance of the UK construction sector as the phased restart of work on site helped to lift output volumes and boost business confidence. At the same time, new orders stabilised after three months of sharp declines and purchasing activity expanded at the fastest rate since December 2015.

 

The headline seasonally adjusted IHS Markit/CIPS UK Construction Total Activity Index jumped to 55.3 in June, from 28.9 in May, to signal a strong increase in total construction output. Moreover, the latest reading signalled the steepest pace of expansion since July 2018.

 

Higher levels of business activity were overwhelmingly linked to the reopening of the UK construction supply chain following stoppages and business closures during the early stages of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

 

Residential building was the best-performing area of construction activity in June. Around 46% of survey respondents noted an increase in housing activity, while only 27% experienced a reduction. The latest expansion of residential construction work was the steepest for just under five years. Commercial work and civil engineering activity also returned to growth in June, although the rates of expansion were softer than seen for house building. New business volumes increased marginally in June, which ended a three-month period of decline. However, the rate of new order growth was far weaker than seen for business activity, reflecting ongoing hesitancy among clients and longer lead-times to secure new contracts. A number of construction firms noted that new work related to infrastructure projects was a key source of growth in June

 

Employment numbers fell at the end of the second quarter, according to the latest survey data. Reports from panel members suggested that worries about the longer-term demand outlook had led to cautious hiring policies and, in some cases, redundancies alongside furlough arrangements in June. The index measuring business expectations for the year ahead remained historically subdued, but climbed to its highest since February amid a boost from the reopening of work on site.

 

Exactly 46% of the survey panel anticipate a rise in business activity, while 31% forecast a reduction. The latter mostly commented on concerns about the wider UK economic outlook. Severe supply chain disruptions continued in June, reflecting stronger demand for construction inputs and ongoing reports of constrained materials availability (especially plaster). This resulted in another rise in purchasing costs, with the rate of inflation accelerating to it’s highest since the start of 2020.

 

Tim Moore, Economics Director at IHS Markit, which compiles the survey:

 

“June’s survey data revealed a steep rebound in UK construction output as more sites began to reopen and the supply chain kicked into gear. House building led the way with the fastest rise in activity for nearly five years, while commercial and civil engineering also joined in the recovery from the low point seen in April. “As the first major part of the UK economy to begin a phased return to work, the strong rebound in construction activity provides hope to other sectors that have suffered through the lockdown period. While it has taken time for the construction supply chain to adapt and rebuild capacity after widespread business closures, there is now clear evidence that a return to growth has been achieved.”While some survey respondents commented on cautious optimism about their near-term prospects, construction companies continued to face challenges securing new work against an unfavourable economic backdrop and a lost period for tender opportunities. At the same time, operating expenses are rising due to constrained capacity across the supply chain and the impact of social distancing measures. “Looking ahead, construction firms are more confident than at any time since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the ongoing reductions in staffing numbers seen in June provide a stark reminder that underlying conditions across the sector are a long way off returning to those seen before the public health emergency.” Duncan Brock, Group Director at the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply:”Builders were the stars of the UK economy in June with the fastest rise in purchasing activity in almost five years, as pent-up building plans were unleashed following the easing of lockdown measures. Housing led the way with the other main sectors closely behind as several larger infrastructure projects were also on the move.”As business confidence improved to its largest extent since February, companies were buying up materials and laying the groundwork for a stronger summer’s end. This resulted in the highest input price inflation since the start of the year as supply chains creaked under the strain of increased shortages. Building performance is dependent on other sectors recovering at a similar pace, and as businesses were opening up, some fell short of their usual delivery capacity. “Only two months ago the construction sector produced the worst results in the history of the PMI, and there are still some potholes to navigate around as Government support for jobs is stripped away. Employment levels remained deflated, with reports of redundancies, furloughed staff and a reluctance to boost staff numbers when new order levels remained so flat. But with a significant rise in the headline output number, it looks as though all the building blocks are there for the sector’s increasing health…”

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