Schlüter-Systems, as a leading manufacturer of tile installation products, also offers both conventional underfloor heating (UFH) and an electrical undertile heating alternative suitable for diverse applications: the manufacturer’s two CAD-enabled options for the 21st century – BEKOTEC-THERM and DITRA-HEAT E.

The first is a hydronic system that can be installed in the traditional way beneath different floor finishes throughout the home or in commercial buildings. But unlike many rival UFH systems, BEKOTEC-THERM is based on studded modular panels which are quick and easy to install and offer a low build height with rapid warm up times.  A screed is laid across the pipe runs and, rather than waiting weeks for it to cure, tiling operations can commence as soon as the surface is hard enough to walk on by using Schlüter-Systems’ DITRA uncoupling mat which means BEKOTEC-THERM is ideal for time-critical refurbishment contracts such as in shops and offices.

Then, as an electric powered undertile solution, applications for DITRA-HEAT E are only limited by the imagination: they encompass demisting mirrors, warming walls or seats in spas and showers, and vanity areas or countertops.  DITRA-HEAT further finds applications for flooring and plant shelving in conservatories while the system has been specified widely in prestigious locations such as The Lanesborough Hotel and Langham’s in London.

Schlüter-Systems’ Technical Specifications Consultant, Tony Taylor-Sheriff, commented: “UFH technology has progressed enormously since the Roman Hypocaust, but there is still much that is not understood across the wider construction industry regarding relevant efficiencies and potential problems such as the importance of uncoupling layers, load distribution and vapour management. Our solutions have been developed to help professionals achieve quick and energy efficient installations, with BEKOTEC-THERM, for example, being able to offer the benefit of low temperature flow which makes it ideal for use with heat pumps or other renewable sources of heat. DITRA-HEAT E likewise offers rapid response and is very flexible in use.”

For specifiers and architects, as well as installers of flooring finishes wishing to increase their knowledge of underfloor heating technology, Schlüter-Systems also offers a CPD seminar entitled Specifying Integrated Underfloor Heating Systems which can be delivered online or in person.

With more than 2,300 employees and seven offices across Europe and North America, Schlüter-Systems is the world’s largest and most innovative manufacturer of system solutions for the function, protection and decoration of tiles and natural stone flooring. Schluter-Systems in the UK offers a very wide product portfolio including the Schluter-KERDI range waterproofing membranes, the versatile tilebacker KERDI-BOARD and its underfloor heating solutions.


Schlüter-Systems appoints new Head of Marketing The new Head of Marketing for Schlüter-Systems is David Naylor (pictured) who brings years of experience in the building industry to the innovative manufacturer of system solutions for the function, protection and decoration of tile and natural stone. David’s most recent position as Head of Product Management for George Fischer, a plastic pipe systems specialist. During his career, David has been involved the development of new innovative products, such as Durapipe PLX+, a fuel station pipe system, which is now distributed worldwide, and George Fischer’s Fuseal, a chemical waste drainage system. Also, during his time at Tremco Illbruck, David managed the launch of popular adhesive products such as Shark Bond and PU700.

Heading a team of 5, David explains,

“I look forward to making a positive impact here by helping the business grow and expanding the coverage across the industry. I am also enjoying working with my new team, who have been very supportive. It’s an exciting time to join Schlüter-Systems”.

 


CLICK HERE For further information

  

or call 01530 813396

 

 


 

or visit https://www.schluter.co.uk/

SUPERPHON PROVIDES REVERBERATION CONTROL AT COVENTRY’S TWO FRIARGATE

 

CMS Danskin Acoustics’ SuperPhon panel is to contribute to reverberation control in the full height reception area of Coventry’s prestigious new, Grade A office address TWO FRIARGATE.

TWO FRIARGATE is part of Coventry’s first dedicated business district, Friargate, adjacent to Coventry Railway Station.  When complete in the coming months, it will be the city’s most sustainable building and premier office address.  TWO FRIARGATE has achieved BREEAM Excellent accreditation and is targeting A AirScore rating and EPC A.

The twelve-storey building is a joint public-private partnership development overseen by Coventry City Council, Cannon Kirk Group and West Midlands Combined Authority.  The architects are Allies and Morrison and the main contractor is Bowmer+Kirkland.

Specified by the architects for the reception, which incorporates a business lounge, the SuperPhon panels have been installed by Bespoke Building & Joinery Projects.

SuperPhon is an acoustically absorbent ceiling and wall panel of composite construction for reducing sound reverberation, providing up to Class ‘A’ acoustic performance.  Acoustic insulation experts CMS Danskin Acoustics provide a free reverberation calculation service along with technical and on-site support.

Manufactured by CMS Danskin Acoustics in Warrington, SuperPhon is designed for use in many applications, including recording/rehearsal studios, audiology rooms, cinemas and theatres, schools, call centres and conference rooms.  The panel has been installed at the British Science Museum and at Jodrell Bank, for example.

The TWO FRIARGATE project involved a tight order-to-delivery timescale of just nine days and a number of different sized panels all with a Cara Glass finish.

Commenting Joe Bradder of Bespoke Building & Joinery Projects said,

“SuperPhon is a good product, easy to install and of good quality.  We have used it in a number of projects now.”

SuperPhon is available in a range of standard sizes and thicknesses.  Bespoke panels and absorbers size, thickness, shape or fabric facing and high impact performance options can be readily manufactured.  A flexible solution, SuperPhon can provide complete or partial wall coverage.  Its wide range of colour finishes, including 63 colours and others available on special order, provides aesthetically pleasing reverberation control.

Part of SIG plc, CMS Danskin Acoustics produces and sources insulation products advising on all matters relating to sound proofing materials and noise reduction strategies, including floors, ceilings and walls, to combat airborne and impact noise.  Notable projects include the Bank of England, the Royal Shakespeare Theatre and The Shard.


www.cmsdanskin.co.uk

www.twofriargate.com

www.centraljoinerygroup.co.uk

 


 

Bespoke Fibrelite GRP composite trench covering solution,

82% lighter than cast iron

Once in a while, a product will come along whose performance will drive a change in standards across entire industries. Like stainless steel. Or concrete. Or a trench cover which is over 80% lighter than the cast iron traditionally used, eliminating the need for costly specialised lifting equipment and the accompanying health and safety hazards. And, unlike metal and concrete infill covers, it’s engineered from a GRP composite material which is inert and impervious to corrosion from water and salt, as well as many other corrosive constituents.

 

Changing The Standard For Health & Safety

Heavy metal trench covers come with inherent H&S hazards & often require specialised lifting equipment lightweight Fibrelite GRP trench covers eliminate manual handling risks

Fibrelite’s GRP composite trench and manhole covers are fast usurping metal and concrete covers to become the standard for high-performance industries like airports, commercial ports, leisure cruise terminals, military and defence, power generation (both traditional and renewables), and data centres, with companies like Magnox, The National Grid, all branches of the UK armed forces, and the world’s largest technology brands specifying Fibrelite covers for new build and retrofit projects.

Recent Installation: Port Cruise Terminal Upgrade, UK

As part of this Southern English Port’s cruise terminal upgrade project, Fibrelite was approached by the end-user, who was providing the Onshore Power Supply (OPS) systems. The port had previously considered installing cast iron trench covers to cover the 500 metres of trench housing the high-voltage power cables, but due to their weight (approximately 350 kg) and the additional associated overheads, they approached Fibrelite for a lighter alternative.

Fibrelite developed a bespoke covering solution made up of dozens of custom-sized F900 (90-tonne) load-rated GRP composite trench covers in varying dimensions to suit the specified trench rebate dimensions, which were 65 kg, 82% (285 kg) lighter than the cast iron alternative. The Fibrelite covers are light enough for safe removal with the site dolly, complying with the load rating requirement of the site.

Recent Installation: Major Southern UK Airport Off-Apron Lighting Pit Upgrade

At one of the UK’s busiest airports, Fibrelite designed and manufactured a retrofit replacement for manhole covers over off-apron runway lighting pits where onsite staff have a window of approximately two minutes to effect maintenance and/or repair works between take-offs and landings, including removing and replacing the F900 load rated access cover. The new lightweight GRP composite Fibrelite covers now allow safe, fast access to the lighting pits, maximising time for maintenance and minimising the risk of injury.

 

A Bright Future For Fibrelite

I’ve been a part of the Fibrelite journey since 2011, and it’s been exciting to play a part in driving the upgrade from traditional concrete and metal trench and manhole covers to GRP composites in myriad industries, especially those where manual handling is critical, and seeing how we’ve helped increase health and safety and performance in those industries. We expect to see more and more industries make the upgrade to Fibrelite composite covers, especially in mission-critical areas.

Jo Stott, Marketing Director, Fibrelite


CLICK HERE TO Explore Fibrelite’s technical case study library

 

 


 

The Automatic Door Suppliers Association (ADSA) has launched its new website, boasting improved functionality with a brand-new look and feel.

The site has been produced to maximise user experience, with slicker mechanisms for booking courses and events, a member search facility with postcode and mapping features for customers to find products and service providers.

The association’s online presence, www.adsa.org.uk has been developed to reflect its current activity: extensive learning and development content, industry news and updates and independent compliance assessment services.

It offers a fresh new look, with a rolling home page and enhanced connectivity through third party app integration for improved booking/payment processes. It also incorporates social media feeds.

The site has greater clarity and is more intuitive: the online membership application process has been fully digitised and course/event bookings have a calendar interface to allow users to sync events with their own diaries.

ADSA has also included a shop… by public demand. Members asked the association to produce a range of branded workwear which can be personalised with company/name alongside their ADSA credentials.

The clothes range, which includes tee shirts, polos, shirts, fleece jackets and work trousers, has been produced using environmentally friendly/sustainable materials. Profits from the sale of branded merchandise will be reinvested into learning development – benefitting members in all respects.

Ken Price, ADSA’s Managing Director, said that the redevelopment of the site provided a chance to “review, refocus, and plan for the future”.

“The previous iteration of the site was functional but had started to look a little dated. We wanted to present a new window to the world which said more about the organisation we have become, was easier to use and provided members with new added benefits.

“We think that we have achieved that with a platform that has the scope to incorporate new initiatives and digital services as they continue to be launched.”


CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE NEW ADSA WEBSITE

 

 


 

Greencore manufactures homes that set a new standard for low carbon construction, coupled with energy efficiency and low carbon living. The company has big ambitions for the future, aiming to deliver over 10,000 Climate Positive homes across the south of England by 2035.

Greencore recently moved to a new 30,000 ft² facility in Bicester, where it produces its innovative Biond closed timber frame panels, insulated with natural materials, the output of which is currently enough for more than 200 homes per year. The off-site manufacturing process enables the timber frame superstructure to be erected quickly and safely, and a home is air tight and water tight just two weeks after the first panel arrives on site.

One of Factory Manager Rob Bresnahan’s early tasks for the new premises was to find a forklift that was suitable for handling the diverse mix of incoming raw materials, as well as ideally being able to lift and move the sizeable and bulky finished panels around the factory and yard areas. Using just one truck for multiple tasks, in the storage, production and outside areas was obviously going to be a more efficient and cost effective investment. And given the nature of the company’s homes – which are targeted to be better than net zero in terms of whole life embodied carbon – electric power was a further prerequisite.

An evaluation of a number of truck brands on the market eventually led to the Irish forklift manufacturer Combilift, which has focussed on expanding its electric range over the past five years or so. With a wide choice of models, Rob went for the Combi-CB4E – a 4t capacity compact counterbalance design truck. Its versatility enables it to handle pallets of the insulation materials, packs of timber which can be 5m long and weigh up to 3000kg, and the sizeable finished wall, floor and roof panels. Its multidirectional capability, which was one of the selling points for Rob, also allows for safe, low level sideways transportation of the largest loads, enabling widths between stacked products to be kept at a minimum. As production volumes increase, this space saving handling will become even more of an advantage.

“A number of factors influenced our decision to replace an old LPG counterbalance truck with the Combilift,” said Rob. “I’d had previous dealings with the manufacturer and was impressed with the quality of products, their reputation in the industry and the level of customer service. The CB’s size, lift capacity, manoeuvrability and emission -free operation is perfect for our handling requirements.”


CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE COMBILIFT WEBSITE

  

CLICK HERE FOR GREENCORE HOMES

 


 

A Perfect Blend of Aesthetics and Functionality at HC Miraflores Hospital

TRILUX, a renowned leader in lighting solutions, has successfully partnered with the HC Miraflores Hospital in Zaragoza, bringing together aesthetics and functionality to create an exceptional lighting environment. The HC Miraflores Hospital was recently honoured with the prestigious Ricardo Magdalena Architecture Trophy, recognising its architectural excellence.

Healthcare facilities face unique challenges in meeting the stringent requirements necessary to ensure the well-being of patients and healthcare personnel. Among these challenges, lighting stands out as a crucial aspect in designing and constructing a new health complex. Lighting must be tailored to the specificities of each environment and the diverse activities within the facility.

Recognising the importance of lighting in healthcare environments, TRILUX provided the ideal solution for the lighting needs of HC Miraflores Hospital. With an extensive portfolio, remarkable adaptability, and efficient production centres, TRILUX rose to the challenge of illuminating this state-of-the-art medical facility.

TRILUX’s partnership with the Hernán Cortés Hospitals Group was instrumental in meeting the unique project requirements. The Group sought a reliable and innovative partner capable of delivering agile and adaptable lighting solutions to support their modern and technologically advanced facilities. With fewer luminaire references, TRILUX ensured aesthetic and technical uniformity throughout the hospital, covering all areas except for the operating rooms and reception.

Within the healthcare environment, lighting serves a dual purpose of functionality and ambience. In examination rooms, creating a calming and pleasant atmosphere for patients is essential, while treatment areas demand optimal lighting conditions for accurate diagnosis and medical procedures.

TRILUX addressed these diverse needs by installing their AMATRIS and SIELLA luminaires. In corridors and waiting rooms, AMATRIS luminaires provided a flexible and quick-installation solution, offering decorative potential and influencing the premises’ ambience through design and lighting effects. Incorporating SIELLA luminaires added an austere style and pleasant light, seamlessly integrating into any space.

TRILUX also introduced the OLEVEON FIT luminaire, featuring innovative 3D prism technology for homogeneous and glare-free lighting. This solution significantly reduced energy consumption while delivering exceptional light quality by leveraging modern LED technology.

TRILUX’s expertise in lighting solutions for healthcare facilities ensured the implementation of a future-proof lighting solution at HC Miraflores Hospital. By offering tailored lighting solutions to meet the specific needs of different areas within the hospital, TRILUX demonstrated its commitment to providing efficient and effective lighting solutions.

Discover how TRILUX’s expertise and know-how in healthcare lighting can support your facility with an optimal lighting solution. Enhance the well-being of patients and healthcare personnel while achieving a harmonious blend of aesthetics and functionality.

 


CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE TRILUX WEBSITE

 


 

GEZE UK MD Kaz Spiewakowski looks to focus on education and further developing relationships with RIBA and overseas members as well as ensure value for members as he takes over the two-year presidency of the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers (GAI). Kaz has already held the vice president role for the last two years working closely with outgoing president Mario Del-Signore.

 

The focus on education will look at improving the process for developing new material and how it is delivered. The GAI will explore getting the content validated and third party audited as well as looking at producing new content.

 

Said Kaz

 

‘I am delighted to be taking over the presidency of the Guild. CPD and compliance is vital for our members – becoming trained and demonstrating competence. The work done over the past few years has increased the focus on professionalism, particularly the REG AI status and the aim is to continue that.’

 

Simon Forrester, Chief Executive of the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers added

 

‘We are delighted that Kaz has taken over the role of GAI President. We have a long association with GEZE with many of their team holding GAI qualifications or sitting on Guild committees. We wish Kaz a successful presidency.’

 

Architectural Ironmongers provide specialist scheduling service and technical support for architects and contractors, specifying and installing products that are fit for purpose whilst ensuring compliance to the many standards.

 


To find out more about GEZE and its comprehensive range of automatic

and manual door closers and window technology products

 

CLICK HERE TO EMAIL

 

OR CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE GEZE WEBSITE

 

 


 

Fassa Bortolo take steps towards more sustainable production  

Leading Italian render manufacturer, Fassa Bortolo, has made significant changes to its product packaging as part of its ongoing efforts to operate more sustainably.

In order to continue evolving and improving its services, the coming months will see Fassa’s Colour System packaging transition to a new recyclable tub, which will help reduce the amount of waste going to landfill when using Fassa products.

Alongside the material upgrade, the labelling will also receive a modern refresh. Each label will clearly demonstrate the product line and colour through an impactful design, as well as highlight the product benefits and features for a more coherent, user-friendly experience.

Dale Telling, commercial manager at Fassa Bortolo UK, comments:

“We’ve been working on this new packaging development for some time now, testing various prototypes before finalising our decision. Our products are all about superior quality at every stage of the process, not just application, but at point of sale too. This new, environmentally conscious packaging still has an incredibly premium feel, all while helping to protect the planet and communicate our products more clearly to customers.”

 


For more information, please CLICK HERE

 


 

 

 

ALDI ENHANCES TRADEMARK GREY WITH A NATURAL SLATE SOLUTION

 

CUPA PIZARRAS’ CUPACLAD® 101 Logic was specified as part of the construction of a new Aldi store in Truro, Cornwall. The natural slate cladding product was chosen for an aesthetic that was entirely in-keeping with the surrounding Cornish town, as well as its impressive fire-resistant properties.

 

Aldi tasked construction consultancy company Kendall Kingscott with designing and overseeing the creation of a new store in Garras Wharf, Truro. Kendall Kingscott became aware of CUPA PIZARRAS and its products after the slate provider presented a CPD to the team in their Bristol office. Keen to utilise the company’s natural slate products, Kendall Kingscott contacted its Technical Sales Manager for the South West, Stuart Black.

 

“The team at Kendall Kingscott wanted to use natural slate for two reasons,” said Stuart. “Firstly, hanging slate cladding is very popular in the local area so specifying this material would allow the store to blend in with some of the surrounding buildings. Secondly, natural slate scores highly when it comes to fire resistance.”

 

Consequently, Stuart recommended CUPACLAD® Logic 101, which utilises CUPA PIZARRAS’ natural slate. At 7.65mm thick, it is a robust slate product and is ideal for locations that regularly experience high winds and heavy rain. Furthermore, CUPA PIZARRAS natural slate is classed as A1 non-combustible in accordance with the European standard EN 13501-1 – the highest possible fire rating.

Once the 150m2 of CUPA PIZARRAS’ natural slate was delivered to site – it was installed by Spectrum Building Envelope & Facades. As is required for CUPACLAD® Logic 101, the slates were fixed horizontally using self-drilling screws that have been specially designed to optimise installation. Post-application the screws are invisible, to ensure they do not detract from the natural slate’s appealing aesthetic.

 

Architect James Stanfield from Kendall Kingscott commented: “CUPA PIZARRAS worked closely with our design team to produce a bespoke solution that provides a sharp and contemporary public facing façade.

 

“The slate provides texture and uniformity to the building frontage, which ties it into the local context. We were very pleased with the finish provided by CUPACLAD® Logic 101 and how CUPA PIZARRAS helped to deliver the project and fulfil the brief.”

 

What’s more, thanks to its natural resistance and durability, CUPA PIZARRAS’ slate does not lose its colour over time and it continues to perform. As such, it is maintenance free and guaranteed to last up to 100 years.


 

To learn more about CUPA PIZARRAS and CUPACLAD®, please click here:

 


 

 

 

Introducing F.H. Brundle’s sleek new modular fencing system from Kingspan

 

Stylish, high-quality, and long-lasting, Kingspan modular fencing is the latest product from respected supplier F.H. Brundle.

Built using Kingspan’s tried-and-tested sandwich panels, the system is lightweight, easy to handle, and quick and simple to install.

Its sturdy double-sided panels, available in Anthracite Deep Matt RAL 7016, are smooth on one side and ribbed on the other.

Available in heights of 488mm or 610mm, the system only requires a post every 2.5m, meaning far less groundwork is required than alternative composite solutions.

The aluminium concrete-in or bolt-down posts have been specially designed to make installation extremely straightforward. Gravel boards provide a level base for the fence panels to rest on.

What’s more, they’re highly weather resistant, with a heavy gauge coated steel skin, that allows them to be used up to 1km from the coast.

They’ve also been wind pressure tested to 120 km/h, UV tested and come with a 10-year anti-corrosion warranty.

 


To find out more call 01708 398048

or CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE F.H.BRUNDLE WEBSITE