Aico – making sheltered housing safer

Aico – making sheltered housing safer

Aico, UK’s market leader in domestic mains powered Fire and Carbon Monoxide (CO) detection, has developed an innovative product to solve a safety issue facing people in sheltered housing and other vulnerable people that use Telecare/Warden Call Systems.

Telecare/Warden Call Systems are commonplace in dwellings for vulnerable people and are an important tool to let people live independently in a safe environment – but in most situations they are not connected with the Smoke and CO alarms in the property.

The new Ei414 Fire/CO Alarm Interface provides a dedicated connection between Aico Smoke and CO alarms and Telecare/Warden Call Systems, enabling an emergency signal to be transmitted directly to that system if fire or CO is detected.

The Ei414 is a flexible device that interconnects Aico RadioLINK Smoke, Heat and CO alarms with most new and existing Telecare/Warden Call Systems. The connection to the Telecare/Warden Call Systems can be made wirelessly with Radio Frequency (RF) signals using RF Universal Transmitters, if available, as part of the Telecare/Warden Call Systems, or via hard wiring directly between the two devices.

As the Ei414 is a RadioLINK device and links to Aico RadioLINK Smoke, Heat and CO alarms wirelessly, it brings all the advantages of a wireless interconnect alarm system; these include far less disruption during installation, increased tenant compliance, more flexible coverage and greatly reduced installation time as a result of RF signal, rather than hard wired, alarm interconnection.

The Ei414 can be powered directly from the mains or from a 12-24V DC supply, from the Telecare/Warden Call Systems for example, and has built-in tamper-proof rechargeable Lithium Cells which will power the device in the event of any mains failure.

Exceptionally easy to use, the Ei414 features a removable key with three settings: On, Off and Test. When ‘On’ the Ei414 responds to an alarm signal from House Coded RadioLINK Aico Smoke, Heat or CO alarms, and switches the relevant ‘Fire’ or ‘CO’ relay contacts to trigger the Telecare/Warden Call Systems. LED indicators provide visual confirmation of mains power and fire or CO alarm activation. The ‘Off’ setting stops all fire and CO alarm triggers being sent to the Telecare/Warden Call Systems, which is particularly useful if a property becomes vacant. The ‘Test’ setting allows a responsible person such as a Warden or Fire Engineer to test the entire system, which would include a signal being transmitted to the Telecare/Warden Call Systems.

“The Ei414 has been developed in response to a need identified whilst working in close proximity with the social housing sector,” explains Neal Hooper, Director of Aico. “The challenge has been to solve a problem that falls in between two specifiers within the same department – one for smoke alarms and another for the Telecare/Warden Call Systems. We are encouraging these two specifiers to work together and call on the expertise of our highly trained Regional Specification Managers to explain the benefits of joining the two systems together and demonstrate how simple it is to install and use the product.”

The Ei414 Fire/CO Alarm Interface from Aico comes complete with a full five year guarantee and has RF performance to EN 300220-1 and EMC performance to EN 301489-1.

Aico is a wholly owned subsidiary of Ei Electronics and is the first name in residential fire protection in the UK. All alarms are designed and built in Europe specifically to meet UK standards and regulations. For more information, please visit www.aico.co.uk.

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RCI show 2014

RCI Show 2014

The RCI show is taking place at the Ricoh arena in Coventry today and tomorrow. After many requests from members of the roofing, cladding and insulation industry the sector now has a fantastic platform, where exhibitors can show their new products/services and benefit from the RCI’s comprehensive marketing program.

Over 100 companies will be exhibiting throughout the course of today and tomorrow, which will mean that the show is bound to have something that is of interest to you.

Supported by SUG, NFRC and Waverley Communications, a solid foundation has been laid to ensure that the RCI Show can go from strength to strength for many years to come.

@BuildSpecifier will be visiting the show tomorrow and tweeting highlights from the event. Be sure to follow us to keep up to date.

To see a full list of exhibitors click here.

Published on 29/10/2014

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Cedar Tree Construction specifies Acme clay tiles to replicate Canadian style in the UK

Cedar Tree Construction specifies Acme clay tiles to replicate Canadian style in the UK

An innovative Canadian style home, built as a showcase by Cedar Tree Construction, is using Marley Eternit’s Acme Grey Sandfaced clay plain tiles to replicate the style of the cedar shake roofs commonly seen in Vancouver.

Greg Jones, the owner of Cedar Tree Construction, recently relocated back to Swansea in South Wales after spending four years in Canada, building superior homes. Inspired by the beautiful timber home designs, he decided to design and build his own family home as a showcase to demonstrate how the Canadian style of construction could be incorporated into new build and renovation projects in the UK.

Marley Eternit’s Acme Grey Sandfaced clay plain tiles in a single camber were specified to replicate the aesthetics of Canadian wooden shake roofs, as well as to complement the cedar shingles that were being used on vertical elements of the build.

Greg Jones explains: “I’ve worked with Marley Eternit on roofing projects before and they were able to provide me with technical support to help me find the perfect roof tile, not only by providing a range of samples but also by identifying projects that I could visit to see how the tiles would look on a completed roof.

“The Acme Grey Sandfaced plain tile was the closest match on the market and replicates the aesthetics of cedar shake without the high cost. Once I had chosen the tile, Marley Eternit provided estimates and suggested local roofing contractors to carry out the project. The finished roof looks beautiful and showcases how the aesthetic simplicity of timber with a clay roof can create beautiful, distinctive homes in this country.”

Acme single camber clay plain tiles enable the creation of contemporary roof designs with the warmth and character of clay. Suitable for use down to roof pitches as low as 30 degrees, Acme clay plain tiles are available in a range of colours and textures. The tiles also have impressive environmental credentials with the ability to achieve an A+ rating in the BRE Green Guide to Specification, maximum credits towards the BES 6001 Responsible Sourcing framework and carbon footprint data at product level.

Sarah Jackson, marketing product manager at Marley Eternit, adds: “The Acme clay plain tiles give the natural beauty that Cedar Tree Construction was seeking to emulate with this project, highlighting how a stunning roof can be achieved at an affordable price. We are delighted that they have chosen to use our tiles on this innovative new build and we look forward to working together again in the future.”

Marley Eternit’s investment in clay tile manufacturing means that it has the largest clay plain tile production capacity in the UK. This includes the evolution of an unrivalled palette of colours, textures and cambers and a wide range of fittings and roofing accessories.

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.

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Hunter shows its can do attitude in Charlton

Hunter shows its can do attitude in Charlton

A “can do” approach and a close working relationship with the contactor has helped Hunter Plastics to come up with a solution that made part of the regeneration of the Glades development in London much more straightforward and cost-effective. The Technical and Fabrications teams at Hunter put their heads together to design and manufacture a bespoke fitting for walkway drainage.

The redevelopment of the Glades was, at the time, the largest scheme of its kind in Europe. Main contractor Mears carried out a programme of external repairs and renovation to over 50 buildings, in an incredibly tight nine month timescale, for client Family Mosaic Housing. The programme included external and internal repairs and renovation, in a £14million project, which was the largest CESP-funded scheme in the UK. Part of the scheme meant that rainwater and soil vent pipes had to be moved – which is where Hunter came in.

Steve Everitt, who managed the project for sub-contractor N&J Building Services was the man to bring Hunter in on the project, after noticing that the design of the drainage outlets for walkways and balconies was rather complicated and, as a result, also expensive. He had an idea of how to make the whole process a lot simpler and called in the experts at Hunter to help make it into a reality.

“When I looked at the original plans for this part of the project I thought the drawings looked a bit complicated and expensive,” says Steve. “I had an idea of how to make the process smoother for the client and easier for my team to install – it was a no-brainer.” Steve worked closely with the whole Hunter team – the rep on site, the Technical team back at the office and finally the Fabrication department at Hunter’s factory based in Kent. And he can’t speak highly enough of the service he received. “It really was excellent – they delivered on every promise and it was great to know that the techy guys at Hunter were always on the end of the phone when I had a query,” he concludes.

Hunter realises that not all product requirements can be met with standard components. So they have a fabrications department that is fully equipped to provide fabrications to overcome these difficult installations. From gutter fittings at any degree angle through one or two planes, bends to unusual degrees, or branches with odd configurations, the Hunter team can usually come up with a viable solution. Job’s a Good ‘un.

Hunter Plastics, part of the Aliaxis Group manufactures a wide range of PVC-U rainwater, soil and waste and underground drainage systems in the UK.

For further information, please visit hunterplastics.co.uk

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DuPont Tyvek FireCurb advanced breather membranes fitted in the world’s first two-storey, open source WikiHouse

DuPont™ Tyvek® FireCurb™ advanced breather membranes fitted in the world’s first two-storey, open source WikiHouse

Forward-thinking construction techniques require pioneering solutions. That’s why DuPont™ Tyvek® FireCurb™ Housewrap – an innovative breather membrane designed with both safety and sustainability in mind – was chosen for an exciting collaborative project. Built to coincide with the London Design Festival 2014, WikiHouse4.0 became the world’s first open source two-storey house, the basics of which can be accessed and assembled within days – for under £50,000.

The installation, led by Arup, The Building Centre and 00 design, was intended to raise awareness about housing issues and the potential application and intervention of ingenious new solutions. Designs will be free to download and can be adapted before being ‘digitally’ manufactured.

Alastair Parvin, WikiHouse 4.0 co-designer at 00 design studio says, “We are trying to spark people’s imagination as to how technology can now enable almost anyone to afford their own custom-built house without the need for conventional construction. We don’t believe that WikiHouse is the only solution to the current housing crisis, but we do want to host a disruptive debate and to challenge landowners, urban planners and policy makers to think differently about the barriers – such as land or building costs.”

The WikiHouse 4.0 frame is a modular construction system made from SmartPly OSB boards that have been CNC machined into numbered parts. It is assembled with wedge and peg connections rather than bolts and with the final panels held into place using ordinary screws. The 70 square metre structure beautifully demonstrates how a simple, easily assembled wooden frame becomes air-tight, waterproof and secure.

DuPont Building Innovations was keen to support the project with an appropriate membrane solution, fitted behind the fibre cement board façade to seal the timber ‘chassis’ and protect the structure from fire, climate and interstitial condensation. The main part of the build was undertaken in six days – and the DuPont™ Tyvek® FireCurb™ membrane was easily and correctly installed in under 3 hours, with prior technical advice from DuPont and clear instruction guidelines.

DuPont™ Tyvek® FireCurb™ is a key development that adds superior flame retardant performance to the highly valued properties of the renowned breather membrane – such as reliable long-term weather protection, effective vapour diffusion and greater energy efficiency. Using innovative technology to reduce the flammability of polymer based substrates, DuPont™ Tyvek® FireCurb™ potentially limits or stops the spread of fire through the external envelope.

DuPont™ Tyvek® FireCurb™

Rather than use halogens, the technology employs a phosphorous containing agent that forms a ‘char’ layer at the surface when it is in contact with an ignition source. This thin layer of carbonized polymer is highly flame retardant and forms a barrier, slowing the release of flammable materials. Starved of fuel, the flame spreads over the membrane more slowly or not at all – and if the membrane does ultimately catch fire, it produces less smoke – another vital advantage for human safety. Rigorously tested, DuPont™ Tyvek® FireCurb™ Housewrap has a fire rating of class B-s1,d0 according to EN13501-1.

Energy-efficiency was also crucial to the WikiHouse 4.0 concept, thus a weather-tight seal that would enhance both thermal performance and interior comfort was the optimal system – qualities embodied in DuPont™ Tyvek® membranes and tapes, which are offered in range of formats to suit every type of build. Durability is also a key consideration for the project, for even though it can be assembled very quickly, a WikiHouse is intended to last.

Nina Tabink, Arup, Senior Structural Engineer commented, “A digital world is emerging where people can connect with anyone around the globe through a simple click. Arup believes in the potential of digital fabrication and open source technology and how this will provide an alternative collaborative way of working, bringing increased efficiencies. WikiHouse has proven to be a perfect partner to explore these new technologies.”

DuPont™ Tyvek® FireCurb™

Jenny Watt, PR & Marketing Manager, The Building Centre said “WikiHouse 4.0 opens up the potential of digital technology to change how we might design, make and construct buildings. The added value of building technology such as DuPont™ Tyvek® FireCurb™ breather membranes was most welcome to the project.”

The Building Centre, 26 Store Street, WC1E 7BT, London www.buildingcentre.co.uk/aboutus/contact.asp

To learn more about DuPont™ Tyvek® FireCurb™ technology, please visit www.FlameRetardant.tyvek.com

For more commercial and technical information about DuPont™ Tyvek® in the UK please visit: www. tyvek.co.uk
or call 01275 337 660 (087 922 2740 in ROI)

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The new urban style quartz worksurface from COMPAC

The new urban style quartz worksurface from COMPAC

COMPAC, inspired by America’s New York loft culture, have been able to create a fusion between architecture, design and functionality to offer the New York Collection. A totally new quartz worksurface that has its own unique urban style combined with a minimalistic open approach to modern living.

Silky, soft and sensuous to the touch, the New York Collection will excite and stimulate the senses and offers the discerning client an opportunity to create a contemporary kitchen that reflects the style and thrill of loft living in the ‘Big Apple’.

The New York Collection features three urban concept colours – White Zement, Ice Zement and Grey Zement. Each colour has an innovative perfect glacé finish, unique to COMPAC, which highlights the colour, depth and definition of grain and offers less reflection than other quartz worksurfaces. It’s easy to clean and maintain too.

The New York Collection from COMPAC –the beginning of a great story.

For further information, please visit:
www.compac.es
email: customerserviceuk@compac.es

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Alutec to exhibit at the northern homebuilding and renovating show

Alutec to exhibit at the northern homebuilding and renovating show

At this year’s Northern Homebuilding and Renovating Show, taking place at the Harrogate International Centre from Friday 7th to Sunday 9th November, Alutec will be showcasing its full range of attractive and sustainable rainwater and eaves solutions on stand 140.

Those visiting on Saturday 8th November will also have the opportunity to listen to Michael Pritchett, Area Sales Manager at Alutec, explain the benefits that an aluminium system brings in his seminar ‘5 Reasons to use aluminium eaves systems’, starting at 11:30am.

Taking centre stage on the stand will be Alutec’s Tudor downpipe system, which is the ideal replacement for cast iron systems on listed and period style buildings. Available in 21 standard colours, including the uniquely textured Heritage Black polyester powder coating, the Tudor downpipe delivers a classic look without the associated extensive maintenance and installation costs.

Visitors will also be able to cast their eye over the popular Evoke fascia and soffit range has been manufactured to the highest standards of durability and reliability. Designed as the perfect alternative to PVC or sheet aluminium solutions, the Evoke fascia and soffit system comprises of a recycled polyethylene core with an aluminium outer skin, which offers a life expectancy of 50 years or more.

Also on display will be Alutec’s Evolve, Traditional and Aligator rainwater systems, which will be presented on the stand.

Tony Wereszczynski, Technical Director at Alutec, commented: “I’m confident that with our full range of rainwater and eaves solutions on show, every visitor to our stand will be able to find what they are looking for and will be inspired by the extensive product range.”

Manufactured from marine grade aluminium, all of Alutec’s rainwater systems offer particularly impressive whole life costing, as the material is so impervious to corrosion that very little maintenance is required. Aluminium is also extremely flexible, being 65 per cent lighter than cast iron, and has a life expectancy of 50 years or more. In addition to all this, aluminium is infinitely recyclable – making it a highly sustainable choice.

For more information please visit www.marleyalutec.co.uk

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Sanctuary Housing installs Aico smoke alarms in new development

Sanctuary Housing installs Aico smoke alarms in new development

Sanctuary Housing, one of the largest social housing providers in the country, has installed Aico’s 160RC series mains-powered RadioLINK alarm systems into all of the 96 flats in its latest £10.4 million development in Newlands Place, Cumbernauld.

Sanctuary Housing manages homes across England and Scotland, providing general rented, sheltered and home ownership accommodation. Sanctuary Cumbernauld, one of its regional operations in Scotland, is in the midst of a £70 million regeneration programme to remove the town’s 12 high rises and rehouse the tenants. The new development in Newlands Place, which features four blocks of 24 two-bedroom flats, will rehome 96 families in modern, comfortable homes.

As a key safety measure the development is being fitted with Aico’s 160RC series mains powered, rechargeable lithium battery back-up smoke alarms. David Robertson, Director at FLN Consulting Engineers, specified the alarms for this new development: “We have specified Aico on all our projects for a number of years having been impressed with the overall quality and reliability of the product.”

Each flat has its own stand-alone system. Additional alarms have been installed in the communal hallways, which are interlinked using Aico’s RadioLINK technology to those in the individual flats. An alarm activated in the communal area will cause the alarms in all flats to be activated for maximum safety. Alarms in flats, however, will not cause the communal alarms to activate, thus avoiding issues of alarms causing unnecessary disruption to other residents.

RadioLINK lets you interconnect Aico alarms and accessories together using Radio Frequency (RF) signals rather than cabling. New properties, such as the Newlands Place development, are seeing the benefits of wire free alarm interconnection as it provides far greater flexibility in alarm installation and adaptation.

Aico’s mains-powered 160RC series smoke and heat alarms are a popular choice for specifiers and social housing providers as they contain tamper proof rechargeable lithium back-up cells, which last the life of the alarm. These can provide over six months back-up in the event of a mains power failure and the batteries can’t be removed by tenants for use in other household devices.

A wholly-owned subsidiary of Ei Electronics, Aico is a market leader in residential fire protection in the UK. All alarms are designed and built in Europe specifically to meet the UK standards and regulations. For more information, please go to www.aico.co.uk.

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ROCKFON launches a better grid installation in just one click

ROCKFON launches a better grid installation in just one click

The Chicago Metallic T15 Click 2790 and T24 Click 2890 are two new, easy to install ceiling grids from ROCKFON.

Made from galvanised steel, these 15mm and 24mm grids are very strong and stable. They are accurate to install thanks to a helpful audible ‘click’ which sounds when the components connect into position, enabling faster installation times on site. The universal main runner is versatile, accepting both click and hook cross tees. The longer, joggled-end cross tee provides easy installation from a distance.

They can be demounted and remounted time and time again without the need for special tools, and more importantly, without causing damage to the grid. Both grids can be cut on site, if required. Designed to fit with A, E and X edge ceiling tiles; concealed, semi-concealed or fully exposed ceiling designs can be achieved, which are suitable for every application area.

These innovative grid solutions offer the quality and characteristics you would expect from ROCKFON. The new Chicago Metallic T15 Click 2790 and T24 Click 2890 are attractive, high performance products with the highest classification for Reaction to Fire: A1, and Class B for Corrosion. They are backed with a 15 year guarantee and are fully recyclable. The grid systems are available from all major UK distributors.

ROCKFON acquired grid manufacturer Chicago Metallic Company in 2013; together they offer their customers the complete ceiling and grid solution. The ROCKFON and Chicago Metallic businesses share many characteristics and values including: a focus on high quality manufacturing and innovation, allied to strong technical support, product development and customer service.

ROCKFON is a leading supplier of stone wool acoustic ceiling and wall solutions that are affordable, simple to install, durable and protect people from noise and the spread of fire. The Rockfon commodity product range of affordable ceiling tiles is available in 2-3 days, making it even quicker and easier to create beautiful, comfortable and safe spaces. To watch and hear how easy it is to install the Chicago Metallic T15 Click 2790 and T24 Click 2890 grids, watch the installation video at www.rockfon.co.uk. Or try it for yourself by ordering a sample today, call 0800 389 0314.

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Structural Concrete Alliance sponsors new award

Structural Concrete Alliance sponsors new award

The Structural Concrete Alliance is sponsoring a new Concrete Society award to find the structural concrete project of the year.

Entries were received from members of the three trade associations which make up the Structural Concrete Alliance, with the winner to be announced by Janet Street-Porter at the Concrete Society Awards Dinner to be held at the Grosvenor Hotel, Park Lane, London on 29th October.

Members of the Concrete Repair Association (CRA), Corrosion Prevention Association (CPA) and the Sprayed Concrete Association (SCA) supplied details of the solutions they had delivered to overcome difficulties encountered in a range of demanding projects.

The entries were reviewed by a panel of members from each of the Associations and three projects were shortlisted to go on to the next stage of the competition.

Ken Dykes, spokesman for the Structural Concrete Alliance declared:

“The judging panel was impressed by the high standards of the entries, which served to highlight the professionalism of CRA, CPA and SCA members. Each entry demonstrated the depth of knowledge and skills our members possess and their ability to provide innovative solutions to even the most demanding of engineering challenges.

“Although it was a difficult choice, the judging panel felt that the shortlisted projects best represented the expertise of the asset protection and repair industry.”

The shortlisted entries included Balvac’s repair and refurbishment of the Silver Jubilee Bridge complex in Widnes, Cheshire; BAM Ritchies’ stabilisation of the Hooley Cutting in Surrey; and Mott Macdonald’s refurbishment of Ryde Pier in the Isle of Wight.

The Structural Concrete Alliance is an umbrella organisation which brings together the Concrete Repair Association (CRA), Corrosion Prevention Association (CPA) and Sprayed Concrete Association (SCA) to provide a single co-ordinated voice for the structural concrete refurbishment and repair industry. It offers a single point of contact for major clients and a definitive source of information and advice for all involved in the repair, refurbishment and management of concrete infrastructure and the protection from corrosion of a wide range of structures.

The Alliance offers a series of free regional CPD seminars which aim to provide delegates with an introduction to Structural Asset Protection and Repair. Events are scheduled to take place in Exeter, London and Leeds this Autumn. For further information on Structural Concrete Alliance activities and events visit www.structuralconcretealliance.org.uk.

For details of the Concrete Society Awards or to book a place at the event visit www.concrete-awards.org.uk

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