Latest innovations and products in the building fabric section of the construction industry.

Cembrit expands its Glendyne natural slate range

Cembrit, the leading roofing and cladding specialist is proud to announce the addition of two new sizes to its Glendyne range of natural slates, 60×30 and 50×30, offering roofers larger slates and more versatility when working on lower pitched roofs.

On a roof with a lower pitch, the large size of the slates will not let water sit between the slates and prevents the water from getting through. Larger slates work well on low pitched roofs and are best suited for use in coastal areas where the environment has a greater degree of moisture content.

The larger sized Glendyne natural slates, 60×30 and 50×30, can be pitched at a minimum of 25° and 20° in moderate exposure zones and 30° and 22.5° in sever exposure zones respectively. The slates exceed the common 2:1 length width ratio, allowing for specification on greater range of roof pitches. The range offers a quality alternative to Welsh Slate and is readily available. Cembrit also has the facility to examine individual cases and offer specific advice on minimum pitch per project outside the parameters of BS 5534.

Glendyne is a high quality slate that combines first-class performance with all the inherent beauty of natural slate, making it the ideal ‘natural’ choice for specifiers and roofers. Available exclusively from Cembrit in the UK, Glendyne is a distinctive blue-grey colour. The Glendyne quarry is one of the most modern slate quarries in the world. The quarry operates a quality management system based on EN ISO 9001 which is externally audited. This standard is adhered to rigidly, as are all quality standard procedures required by each regional market the quarry supplies. Glendyne, like all natural slate from Cembrit, is tested to BS EN European standard, BS EN 12326-1:2014 which requires many of the laboratory tests (‘type testing’) to be performed at least annually and the factory production control (FPC) performed and recorded as a matter of routine by the producer.

For further information visit www.cembrit.co.uk, email sales@cembrit.co.uk or tel: +44 (0) 208 320 1184.
/0 Comments/by

Alumasc’s Monoscreed – bringing deck deflections back to tolerance quickly and effectively

Alumasc Roofing Systems’ Monoscreed is a fast-curing, solvent and isocyanate-free PMMA-based compound screed that can be cold applied to concrete decks (3mm – 50mm) to reduce deck deflection/back-falls and bring deck levels back to tolerance – i.e. zero falls.

Fast cure time

Unaffected by ambient temperatures, the system is rainproof within 15 minutes of being applied and will fully cure in circa 45 minutes, thus offering significant programme benefits when compared with more traditional screeds.

Application to substrate

Comprising resin, filler and aggregate mix, Monoscreed can be mixed at roof level and applied directly to suitably prepared – free from dust, dampness, laitance, grease, oil and other contamination, and if necessary primed with Alumasc Bitumen Primer – cementitious concrete.

The system comes in pre-measured packs of components palletised to ensure easy transportation to roof level and accuracy of the compound mix.

Overlaying

Monoscreed is also suitable to be installed over Hydrotech 6125, Derbigum bituminous membranes and Caltech QC cold-applied liquid where necessary.

For further information regarding Alumasc Monoscreed please visit www.alumasc.co.uk call our technical team on 03335 771 500, alternatively call (0)3335 771 500.
/0 Comments/by

webermineral TF render marked 10/10 at Poyntzpass Primary School

High performance webermineral TF render has been specified for an extension to the Poyntzpass Primary School in Newry, Northern Ireland. Designed to overcome delays caused by wet weather conditions and low winter temperatures during application, webermineral TF was specified by Maurice Cushnie Architects Limited, Portadown, and applied by main contractor Maghera Developments Limited, County Down.

“Wet weather always hinders building schedules but when you have to finish an extension to a school, the timetable is especially critical,” says Pat McAreavey, Saint-Gobain Weber. “The building team at the primary school were hampered by a continuously damp summer this year with June being especially wet.”

Concerns that the weather would delay render application were overcome with the technical attributes of webermineral TF, a through-coloured, textured decorative finish designed for use with multi-coat render systems including Weber’s thermally efficient External Wall Insulation. This cementitious render can be applied at temperatures as low as 1°C. webermineral TF has rapid drying benefits that prevent wash-off in 1 hour, making it ideal for wet conditions and winter working, and achieves a durable, resilient and weather resistant finish for all year round protection.

With the Poyntzpass Primary School project at risk, Saint-Gobain Weber’s technical team advised the specification of webermineral TF, not only to overcome weather delays, but because it closely matched the existing colour and texture of the original structure’s finish.

“This is the first project in Ireland to specify webermineral TF,” says Pat McAreavey. “The blockwork substrate was coated with weberend OCR, a basecoat render which is applied in one coat avoiding the drying time associated with traditional sand and cement render, and offers excellent weather protection and durability. weber PR310 primer was then applied in preparation for the 1.5mm textured decorative finish of webermineral TF in Ivory.” weber PR310 primer reduces suction and ensures that the subsequent finish will have a minimum life of 10 years. It is easy to apply using a roller allowing both speed and economy. “Weber also provided on site supervision and guidance for the first-time application of this advanced render finish that will prove highly beneficial in avoiding expensive site delays in the cold and damp climates of northern Europe.”

webermineral TF is easy to apply by hand using a steel float. It is available in four colours – White, Cream, Ivory and Stone Grey, supplied in 20kg sacks, and requires only the addition of clean water on site. This product is manufactured in the UK at facilities in Shropshire, helping to ensure product quality, uniformity and availability with reduced transportation costs and CO₂ emissions.

For more information about this project, or for technical support including award winning training courses, please contact Saint-Gobain Weber on 08703 330 070, or visit www.netweber.co.uk.
A free download of the Weber App for iPhone and iPad users is also available from iTunes and from Google Play for Android smartphones and tablet users. Follow Saint-Gobain Weber on Twitter @SGWeberUK for the latest company news and updates.
/0 Comments/by

Senior’s sleek finish adds style to Royal Enfield’s new R&D facility

As one of the world’s oldest and most famous motorcycle manufacturers, Royal Enfield is known for creating modern classics and the company’s cool and contemporary style has inspired the design of a striking new technology centre in Leicestershire, which features a range of aluminium glazing solutions from Senior Architectural Systems.

Designed by LE1 Architects, the highly glazed façade of the impressive two storey research and development facility has been created by leading fabricator and installer Unique Window Systems Ltd for main contractor Stepnell.

With the need to maximise the flow of natural light whilst ensuring a comfortable internal working environment a key requirement, the attractive slim sightlines and enhanced thermal performance of Senior’s popular SF52 aluminium curtain wall system was the perfect choice for the building’s dramatic glazed entrance. To complete the fenestration package, Senior’s slim profile thermally-broken SPW300 aluminium windows were also specified, alongside Senior’s high-performance SPW500 and SPW501 aluminium doors which are ideally suited to high traffic applications.

Having successfully worked with Senior Architectural Systems on previous contracts, Unique Windows Systems Ltd recommended the use of Senior’s products for this high-profile scheme where achieving the desired aesthetics and performance was paramount. The strong yet slim profile of Senior’s SF52 aluminium curtain wall and SPW300 aluminium windows have helped to create the sleek, modern finish that the architect and client desired, with the low U-values offered by both systems also contributing to the overall energy-efficiency of the building.

Commenting, Patrick Marston, marketing manager at Unique Windows Systems Ltd said: “Senior Architectural Systems provide an excellent range of aluminum products for us to fabricate from. We often have complex budget and performance requirements from our customers to consider and Senior have a portfolio of products that means we can offer our clients an array of options to best suit”.

Located on the site of a former airbase in Bruntingthorpe near Lutterworth in Leicestershire, the new technology center for Royal Enfield is set to play a vital role in the manufacturer’s long-term product development strategy and as well as providing new office and design space, also includes state of the art facilities for the testing of new motorcycles.

For more information about Senior, visit www.seniorarchitectural.co.uk.
/0 Comments/by

Amber Precast strengthens with brand refresh

Amber Precast Group, the Alfreton-based manufacturer of bespoke precast concrete, has cemented new foundations by rebranding the business.

As a single-source manufacturer with over 25 years’ industry experience, Amber Precast is renowned for producing a wide range of architectural, structural, and glass fibre reinforced products for the housebuilding, construction, civil and nuclear sectors.

The brand refresh includes a new look, a restructured offering and a new website, and is designed to strengthen the business as it moves into the future.

Amber appointed industrial marketing specialists Armstrong to lead the design and development work. The full-service agency from Chester is experienced in corporate rebranding and developing collateral for manufacturing companies.

Mark Johnson, Amber Precast Managing Director, said “We’re very pleased with our new positioning. The Amber Precast brand has been thoroughly modernized, reflecting our true status within the industry, and, moving forward, we are now well-positioned to serve our clients with a ‘one stop’ solution for all precast concrete product types.”

For more information please visit www.amberprecast.co.uk.
/0 Comments/by

A complete roof is resolved with Cembrit Moorland slates

High quality fibre cement slates from Cembrit have complemented the quality new build homes that David Wilson Homes has developed in South Wales. Providing a sleek and stylish finish, the dressed edge Moorland slates have made light work of a complex roofing project.

St Canna’s Green is a newly built David Wilson Homes development comprising 40 three, four and five bedroom properties. Located in the village of Llangan in South Wales, the homes have been carefully crafted to meet the needs to today’s lifestyles, delivering stylish, spacious, light and airy spaces that perfectly match modern lifestyle and aspirations. Multiple properties within the development feature complex roofing designs, with different roof pitches ranging from 35° to 45°, rafter pitches, dormer and rooflight windows requiring a roof covering that could accommodate these details.

Bridgend-based roofing company, Rooftop Tiling Ltd was appointed as the main contractor for this project. Having referred to the project requirements, the contractor recognised that the requirement for a roofing material that could be easily cut and installed on multi pitched roof designs. Whilst looking natural from the ground, Rooftop Tiling Ltd specified Cembrit Moorland dressed edge slates and sourced these products in 600mm x 300mm blue/black from its local builder’s merchant, Robert Price Ltd.

“David Wilson Homes is known to deliver high quality new builds which are aesthetically pleasing,” says Nick Pritchard, Commercial Manager at Rooftop Tiling Ltd. “We wanted to ensure we deliver this finish to the St Canna’s Green project by installing a visually attractive slate that could also handle the complex roof design. We are pleased with the end result. The slates complement the design of the individual properties, and the development as a whole”

Moorland fibre cement slates are manufactured using Portland cement together with a non-asbestos formulation of blended synthetic and cellulose fibres. Each slate is pigmented during production and fully compressed. The edges are dressed and then the slates are finished with a high quality, semi-matt acrylic coloured coating to the top face and edges, and a clear binder to the back face.

Cembrit Moorland Slates are manufactured in accordance to BS EN ISO 9001: 2000 and BS EN 492: 2004 product specification for fibre cement slates and their fittings.

For further information visit www.cembrit.co.uk, email sales@cembrit.co.uk or tel: 0208 320 1184.
/0 Comments/by

Innovation from Reynaers – ultra slim frames with Slimline 68

Narrow frames and superior performance characterise Slimline 68, a new window system that’s been launched to the trade by leading aluminium systems company Reynaers.

This window, designed for UK homes, completes the range of specialist systems from Reynaers that are ideal for the trade market.

Design options

With a huge range of design options, the SL 68 has industry-leading thermal insulation and is one of the most secure windows available – meeting PAS24 and Secured by Design standards. This security is enhanced with hinge-side security brackets, a multi-point locking mechanism and lockable handles.

Rebecca Cope, marketing manager at Reynaers, said “The SL 68 system has been specifically designed to meet the needs of the UK residential windows market and has incredibly slim frames with high performance.

“The outward opening window means that customers can now choose a product that gives them maximum daylight access, whilst keeping properties warm and secure. With no compromise on thermal efficiency or weather resistance, the system is designed to be timeless.

“The slim frames and clean lines make this window ideal for both contemporary and more traditional properties and what’s more, its 68mm frame depth makes it perfect as a replacement window as it usually fits within the existing plaster line.”

The SL 68 can achieve a Window Energy Rating of A++ and a U-value of 1.0 W/m2K with triple glazing. When it comes to double glazing, the Window Energy Rating is A, with a U-value of 1.4 W/m2K. This level of market-leading performance allows fabricators and installers to add real value to their product ranges. Innovative adjustable corner profiles for bay and bow windows are also possible.

SL 68 security meets PAS24 and Secured by Design standards, as well as achieving Class 4 air tightness. The window has a wind-resistance rating of E2400, and water-resistance of E1050. As the name suggests, SL 68 has a frame depth of 68mm, and can carry a maximum glass thickness of 43mm.

First of its kind

Reynaers prides itself in offering specialist and innovative products, and it identified a need for a high-quality and high-performance standard casement-style window for fabricators and installers in the UK but with the additional benefit of slim frames. The SL 68 aluminium casement window is the first of its kind for Reynaers, in line with an increased focus on the trade market.

SL 68 is designed to offer the ultimate in flexibility and streamlined performance. The strength of the aluminium frame and clever design make it possible to create windows with large panes of glass. Ease of maintenance and durability make it the perfect window for fabricators, installers and end-users alike.

Available in hundreds of colours and combinations, the SL 68 has a choice of handles to suit each individual project. Reynaers’ impressive selection of doors, together with this latest offering, means that fabricators and installers are able to choose from a range of trade products of exceptional quality and performance. A full suite of brochures are available for customers to use to showcase the systems and target the end-user of the products.

If you’re a fabricator or an installer, call 0121 421 1999, email reynaersltd@reynaers.com, or visit www.reynaers.co.uk to find out how you can incorporate SL 68 into your range.
/0 Comments/by

Through Wall Solutions supplier raises £2,500 for Local Hospice

RCM’s customers and suppliers know no bounds when it comes to digging deep in order to raise funds to support the Douglas Macmillan Hospice, RCM’s chosen charity.

September 21st saw RCM host a spectacular Golf Day for its customers and suppliers at the prestigious Forest of Arden Golf Club.

Customers and suppliers sponsored holes on the golf course and extra cash was also raised on the evening by generous customers. The donations received a further boost with contributions from RCM’s own staff.

In total £2,495.53 was raised for the Douglas Macmillan Hospice.

Alex Ward-Brassington, Fundraising Manager at Douglas Macmillan Hospice was recently presented the cheque by Ian Quinton, MD of RCM.

“I am truly proud of our customers, suppliers and staff for being so very generous in supporting our chosen charity the Douglas Macmillan Hospice.

Ian Quinton, MD at RCM said “The Golf Day as a huge success with many teams competing for prizes which were awarded during the evening ceremony. Our chosen comedian Aaron James completed the success of the event by entertaining everyone thoroughly at the evening dinner. I would like to say a big thank you to all involved for their participation, loyalty and huge generosity. We look forward to organising further sponsorship events in the future.”

Alex Ward-Brassington, Fundraising Manager, Douglas Macmillan Hospice added “The generous donation of £2,495.53 will make a difference to patients, and their families who are facing a life limiting illness. So on behalf of the Douglas Macmillan Hospice we would like to say a massive Thank You to all at RCM and their very generous customers and suppliers.”

About RCM:
Established in 2004, RCM is a major supplier of complete through wall solutions to the UK construction industry.

Supplying specialist building boards, façades, breather membranes and airtightness solutions, RCM offers a fully integrated approach to the building envelope for all building applications.

RCM are a market leader in providing innovative products and solutions designed and tested to meet the demanding needs of construction. Specified for use in external façades, fire protection, acoustic, airtightness and decorative applications, our extensive portfolio has been installed on many of the UK’s largest projects.

About Douglas Macmillan Hospice:
The hospice cares for adults with a palliative or end of life diagnosis across North Staffordshire. When someone hears the devastating news that they have a terminal illness, life as they know changes forever. We provide care and support free of charge, 24 hours a day, 365 days. We help people living with cancer and non-cancer life limiting illnesses such as advanced heart failure, motor neurone disease and incurable lung diseases. Our dedicated staff and volunteers make a huge difference to a patients’ journey, they are central to the care we provide and all we do. We strive to go that extra mile to provide a warm, friendly and peaceful environment both, at the hospice or in a family’s home. We promote choice, independence, dignity and an individual journey.

/0 Comments/by

Management restructure at Vicaima Limited

(Image: Frederico Capela (left) and Paul King)

Following five successful years at Vicaima, including three as Managing Director, Barry Waddell has decided to take early retirement from the company at the end of the year. Arlindo Leite, Vicaima Group CEO thanked Barry for his tireless contribution to Vicaima and wished him every happiness for the future.

As a result of this decision Frederico Capela will assume the position of Managing Director for Vicaima Limited effective 1 December 2017. Frederico has played an active role within the Vicaima Group for over 17 years, including two periods within the UK and four years as Executive Director of our operation in Brazil. Speaking about his appointment Mr Capela said, “I am really excited to take on this new challenge and I look forward to the continued growth of such a successful and well respected manufacturer within the interior joinery market”. He went on to say, “Vicaima have everything it takes to reach even greater heights; committed employees, great products and a real passion for innovation”.

The position of Commercial Director, currently held by Frederico, will now pass to Paul King, currently Head of UK Marketing. Paul has been part of the senior management team since joining Vicaima and has played an active role in shaping the strategy. He has a comprehensive understanding of the Vicaima product portfolio and its customers, in addition to which his construction industry knowledge, especially in relation to the doors sector spans more than 35 years.

As they look forward to 2018, Vicaima will continue its strategy of constant innovation, exacting performance and superior quality to which this new team are fully committed.

For more information please visit www.vicaima.com.
/0 Comments/by

Marley Eternit launches new Roof System Specification Guide

Marley Eternit is helping to make roof system specification easier with the launch of a new version of its popular roofing guide.

The 2017 Roof Systems Specification Guide now includes all of the information architects need to design and specify a complete pitched roof system, ensuring compliance with BS 5534 and reducing the risk of product substitution.

Marley Eternit’s new guide covers more roofing elements than ever before, from battens and underlay to clay and concrete tiles, fibre cement slates, profiled sheeting, shingles and shakes, right through to ventilation and fixings. It covers all aspects of roofing design and practice, including building regulations and standards, as well as the management of condensation, thermal insulation and weather resistance.

Alex Gill from Marley Eternit, explains: “Just like the rest of the construction industry, we know that architects and other specifiers are increasingly stretched. With more projects, less time, new innovations and changing regulations, they can’t be experts on all products. That’s where support from manufacturers is vital and resources like our new Roof System Specification Guide can be invaluable. We’re sure that this new, more comprehensive, guide will prove even more popular than previous editions.

“Recent figures from the NBS Specification survey show that 78 per cent of respondents think product substitution is still an issue in the industry, so there is a clear role for manufacturers to support specifiers in developing robust specifications that protect design intent. Using a complete tested roof system from Marley Eternit can help specifiers take greater control of the supply chain, with less risk of product substitution further down the line. It also delivers clear levels of accountability and integration, giving greater protection to specifiers by helping to reduce risk to their design liability.”

Marley Eternit offers the most comprehensive pitched roof system on the market, with more elements guaranteed to work together than any other manufacturer and a fifteen year system guarantee.

To download your copy of the new Roof System Specification Guide, or request a hard copy, visit www.marleyeternit.co.uk/roofingguide.
For further information on our range of products and services just ask ME at www.marleyeternit.co.uk or call ME on 01283 722588. You can also follow ME on Twitter @MarleyEternit. If it matters to you it matters to us, that’s why with ME it’s all about you.
/0 Comments/by