Langley Waterproofing Systems Ltd is leading the way with its new hand applied Cold Polyurea liquid waterproofing system. For use on flat roofs, balconies and walkways, Cold Polyurea is a quick to install, fast curing and durable solution.

Cold Polyurea is an advanced, wet on wet, fully reinforced liquid waterproofing system – and the latest addition to Langley’s range of flame-free, cold applied liquid waterproofing systems. It is flexible and suitable for a number of applications; it can be used in both the refurbishment and new build sectors and is suitable for flat roofs, balconies and walkways.

Cold Polyurea is one of the fastest curing systems on the market – within just three hours of being installed, the roof can withstand foot traffic. Its fast application means installers are on site for less time, reducing disruption to the building and its occupants, as well as the client.

Langley’s new system is available for roofs, walkways and balconies and can be installed utilising an insulated or un-insulated system. For roof installations, Cold Polyurea includes a UV stable sealer coat, to protect the roof from sun damage and prolong its life-span. When installing on walkways and balconies, the sealer coat of the Cold Polyurea is UV stable and slip-inhibiting, to improve the safety of those accessing the area.

Dean Wincott, Managing Director of Langley Waterproofing Systems Ltd, said: “One of the major benefits of Cold Polyurea is its versatility – with a variety of supporting products, as well as different colour options, it can be specified for a wide range of projects. Price point is also a key factor and the combination of this, including a faster curing time, allows the Cold Polyurea products to be a market leading waterproofing system.

“Here at Langley, we recognise that fast application is also a key consideration for installers, which is why Cold Polyurea can be applied and cure within just one day, depending on the size of the work area. We feel this is a real benefit within the refurbishment sector, particularly when applied to balconies and walkways to occupied dwellings. The ability to install without the use of heat or flame, also offers safe installation for those on site, as well as building occupants.”

The new Langley Cold Polyurea system is classified with a Broof(t4) fire rating, which independently tests for the external spread of fire under the Building Regulations, meaning it is unrestricted on where it can be used on a roof. It is fully BBA certified and meets NHBC Technical Standards Chapter 7.1 for roofs and balconies. Cold Polyurea also offers a long-term solution with a 25+ year life expectancy. The system is available with independent insurance backed guarantees of 20 years; an assurance that the system can withstand continued use over time.

Langley ensures that a fully bespoke specification is completed prior to the installation of the Cold Polyurea liquid roofing system, to ensure that the chosen system is carefully considered, specified and expertly installed, by one of a network of Langley Approved Contractors, for each individual project.

To find out more about Langley’s Cold Polyurea system please visit: www.langley.co.uk.

Market-leading single ply roofing manufacturer Sika Sarnafil, architects Cullinan Studio and Roofing Contractors Cambridge (RCC) are celebrating following a win at the first-ever AJ Specification Awards.

The roof refurbishment of the Central Building at Cambridge University’s Fitzwilliam College – one of the first major projects to use a pioneering, new approach to Sika Sarnafil’s products – came out on top in the Roofing and Drainage category.

Announced at a ceremony held at The Principal Hotel in Manchester on Friday 15 February, prizes were taken home across a total of 12 categories for projects demonstrating outstanding working relationships between architects, manufacturers and suppliers.

In what was a skilful collaboration between Sarnafil, Cullinan and RCC, the judges agreed there was something special about the way this unique brutalist building had been beautifully protected.

Comprising protruding ‘scalloped’ detailing, an innovative waterproofing solution was created to refurbish the highly complex roof, all without visually altering the original 1960s Denys Lasdun design.

Sika Sarnafil’s single ply membrane and Sikalastic 621 – a liquid-applied product typically used for areas with complex detailing – were used across large areas. This pairing of systems was further enhanced by Sika Refurbishment’s SikaFloor 420.

Sika Limited’s concrete products were also specified for the build by concrete repair contractors Gunite Eastern. Sika’s innovative concrete repair system included a steel corrosion inhibitor. Sika® FerroGard®-903+, which penetrates the concrete and forms a protective monomolecular layer on the surface of the reinforcing steel, was used alongside Sika MonoTop® repair mortars. The concrete was finished with Sikagard®-550W, a high-performance anti-carbonation coating, with crack-bridging capabilities, that protects the concrete, while meeting the aesthetic requirements of the structure.

Sika has a wide range of products available for most applications within the construction industry, which can range from waterproofing, flooring, concrete, sealing and bonding, facade, roofing and refurbishment applications, as well as teams of specialists available to advise on specific projects. Using a combination of systems, while working internally within the company, Sika was able to advise on the most suitable materials for different aspects of the project and ultimately provided a complete building envelope solution, with the client benefitting from having only one supplier to deal with.

Neil Smith, Technical Advisor at Sika Sarnafil, said: “We’re exceptionally proud that the teams across Cullianan Studio, RCC and Sika Sarnafil have been commended by the AJ Specification Awards. The winning project posed a huge design challenge, which was met with a unique approach and use of materials. Completed early and on budget, while the college remained operational throughout, the success of this project is testament to the close working relationships we foster with our highly skilled architects, contractors and clients, while also providing the best quality products.”

Dave Stewart at RCC said he was thrilled to see a project his team had worked on recognised in such prestigious awards: “The central Building Lantern roof was very unusual, presenting numerous detailing challenges that we welcomed. We worked closely with Sika Sarnafil and carried out multiple site tests to ensure the junction between the Sikalastic 621 and single ply membrane was formed using the most effective methods. The use of Sarnametal created a strong bond between the two products, enabling them to be successfully sealed together. This was a challenging and enjoyable project that demonstrates how well these products can work together for roofs with incredibly complex detailing.”

Alex Abbey from Cullinan Studio added: ”We are thrilled that, together as a team, we have won this award. This iconic, brutalist gem of a building is now renewed and preserved for many years to come due to an innovative shell, fascia and roof waterproofing solution, achieved through collaboration. The pioneering approach developed on this project can now be applied to protect other buildings, opening up new possibilities for roof design in the future.”

For more information on Sika’s products and services call 01707 394444, email sarnafilroofing@uk.sika.com or visit gbr.sika.com

Rinnai continuous flow water heaters have been installed on site at the Ty Coryton site of Orbis Education & Care, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist care for children, young people and adults.

Orbis offers specialist schools, community homes, respite care and community-based work-skills services. This application of the Rinnai continuous flow hot water heating products and systems was at an accommodation/care home facility containing 27 rooms with an extra-ordinary demand of hot water, primarily due to the frequency, timing and longevity of the use of showers, baths and basins.

As such Rinnai provided five HDC 1500i continuous flow water heaters, powered by Natural Gas, which at peak can provide in excess of 5,000 l/hr. The installed system included concentric flues and a secondary return complete with expansion vessels and valves to ensure G3 compliance.

The system has now been operational for almost 9 months and the feedback has stated that the system is ‘exceptional’.

Tŷ Coryton is set in extensive parkland on the outskirts of Cardiff just off junction 32 of the M4. It is just a few miles from Cardiff City centre in the friendly village of Whitchurch with its cafes, restaurants, parks and travel connections.

Tŷ Coryton offers a broad range of on and off-site activities, encouraging the students to contribute to and enjoy a sense of community. Whilst the school offers an engaging and flexible curriculum tailored to the learning needs of the individual, the residential building is divided into separate communal flats, each with separate bedrooms, and with kitchen and lounge areas.

Each resident is encouraged to take an active role in personalising their own bedrooms as well as their collective communal spaces. With education, care and in-house therapy teams linking closely together, Tŷ Coryton offers a 24-hour waking curriculum of learning, life skills and leisure.

The highly qualified and experienced team supports children and young people with autism and complex needs to develop key life skills in line with their individual Behavioural Support Plan.

Orbis is an award-winning organisation providing a blend of education and care with therapies available including: speech and language; occupational therapy; clinical psychology; positive behavioural support; music therapy; psychiatry; dietetics and complementary therapies.

Rinnai’s Infinity 1500i, which has been installed at Ty Coryton offers greater benefits when compared to an older style water heating system.There is a focus on energy conservation at Orbis and the 1500i delivers with its 105% net efficiency and market leading range of modulation (58kW – 2.4kW). This increase in energy efficiency also translates into economic savings, helping Orbis manage the energy costs, especially in water and electricity, two essential components needed for a water heating system to operate.

The peak need for useable hot water at Ty Coryton means that it needs a system that can meet and provide continuous hot water, effortlessly, whilst controlling overall costs.

The Rinnai Infinity HDC1500 range is smaller, more compact in its design, and can be fitted either internally, or externally. If the Infinity 1500e is fitted externally, it comes with appropriate weather proofing which provides the required protection to ensure consistent, long life working efficiency.

For more details on RINNAI products visit www.rinnaiuk.com

Makita UK, the UK’s number one professional power tool manufacturer and innovator of technical, high performance health and safety solutions, offer an extensive range of Cold Cut saws. Used extensively in the construction industry these innovative products are contributing substantially to increased site efficiency and safety, helping to minimise site injuries which in recent years has shown a national increase.

When heat is generated from a metal cutting saw, or angle grinder through the use of an abrasive wheel, the operator legally requires a GC07 Hot-Work permit in order to operate the machine. This permit is required for any operation involving flames or when heat or sparks are generated from works such as brazing, torch cutting, grinding, soldering and welding. Using abrasive wheels to cut metal results in the generation of sparks and heat which together creates a natural hazard.

Makita has worked with experts and consultants within the mechanical and electrical systems sector to fully understand these issues encouraging close working relationships with contractors and end users. This knowledge has assisted Makita’s R&D teams in the development of a steel Cold Cut range of products which address the issue of heat and sparks generated within the working environment. In most cases the use of these tools will overcome the requirement of a GC07 Hot-Work permit as well as the necessity for cutting materials in controlled areas allowing processes to be undertaken in situ and increasing on-site productivity.

The Makita range of Cold Cut saws extends from mains to battery powered tools and includes the Makita LC1230 (305mm) mains TCT Cut-Off Saw; the DCS551ZJ (150mm) TCT and the DCS550 (136mm) TCT 18V LXT Brushless Lithium-Ion cordless metal saws. Together these products have set a benchmark in Cold Cut processes and are being extensively specified by many large contractors.

Makita’s focus on this important sector has seen the introduction of over 20 products to the portfolio, all of which address the cutting and processing of metal in a far safer way when compared to the conventional abrasive wheel. Whether cutting rebar, threaded bar and rods, pipes or metal sheet, Makita’s Cold Cut range is recognised as a market leader in this specialist sector.

“Contractors today have many health and safety issues to consider not least of which is vibration which is addressed with our Anti Vibration Technology and the Super Joint System, and of course, dust. But there is a specific focus on sparks and heat and Makita has the equipment and market leading technologies and accessories to address all of these important concerns. Our machines have some of the lowest vibration levels on the market, which is recognised by the hire industry, and we have an extensive range of dust management systems that meet international standards. Additionally, our ever increasing range of cordless machines are helping to overcome the hazard of trailing leads,” comments Charles Shaw, Hire and Construction Division Manager, Makita UK, who represents the business on a number of British and European technology assessment committees.

The convenience of using Makita Cold Cut machines means that operators can move and work more freely around the site, rather than from a static location, affording greater convenience and fewer restrictions. This is making a great difference to speed and efficiency on site and contributes to sheer workability. “Large contractors on huge projects with challenging deadlines are reaping the benefits and making the investment in Makita’s Cold Cutting professional power tools,” continues Shaw.

Makita’s extensive range also includes two cordless rebar cutters DSC162Z (16mm) and the DSC191Z (20mm) enabling users to effectively and efficiently slice through reinforcing bars. The recently introduced DTR180ZK rebar tying tool compliments these products, offering fast and efficient application of rebar tying wire and eliminates manual action. These tools are proving to be economical and time saving, while achieving maximum consistency of application, extended runtime and increased power.

For more news and product information about Makita UK please visit www.makitauk.com. Follow us on Twitter @MakitaUK, Facebook.com/makitauk and google.com/+makitauk

Mineral canopies and metal baffles and tiles feature at the organisation’s new-look HQ.

The world’s leading commercial property and real estate services adviser has used a hat-trick of systems from Armstrong Ceiling Solutions to enhance the interiors of its refurbished headquarters.

Some 600m2 of Armstrong’s VP-500 custom vertical metal baffles, 3,250m2 of Optima L circular and custom-shaped canopies, 150m2 of DH-700 black mesh metal clip-in tiles, and 130m2 of C Profile suspension system were specified for the CBRE’s new-look offices in Milan for their form and function.

The design of the offices is inspired by the modern principles of activity-based working, a revolutionary concept that replaces allocated seating layouts with a more flexible approach to the working environment, with the aim of improving productivity through continuous and efficient interaction between employees.

For this reason, the new offices in the CBRE headquarters were protagonists of an aesthetic re-design project inspired by the values of innovation, wellness and flexibility, which perfectly mirrors the company’s global strategy, “Workplace 360”.

According to the principles of Workplace 360, hierarchical barriers have been completely lifted in favour of sharing, improving accessibility and exchanging ideas. The working environment is completely open with unassigned seats which can be booked daily through users’ smart phones. In addition, specific areas are dedicated to those who need silence and focus as well as relaxation and wellness.

Based on this concept, an in-house CBRE team, supported by Efrem Milia, an interior designer with Milan’s EMA Design Studio, has influenced and defined the functional and organisational aspects.

This cooperation allowed CBRE to intervene in each decision, both technically and decoratively. The result is an exclusive and carefully refined 2,500m2 venue inspired by the historical areas of Milan – the first floor echoing the Navigli canal area, the second the Brera art district, and lastly, the sixth the fashion district.

The decision to leave part of the ceiling with exposed building service elements determined the need to intervene with elements that delivered both aesthetics and acoustics.

And this is where the CBRE looked to Armstrong Ceiling Solutions, due to their extensive range of products and their ability to create tailored solutions that satisfy any project’s need.

In this case, a different Armstrong solution has been chosen for each floor of the renovation, with each providing an aesthetic solution, capable of integrating itself with the space and the different surrounding materials while creating comfortable working environments.

The 3,250m2 of Optima L white mineral canopies, in diameter circles and bespoke squares with two rounded corners, contributed to shaping the common areas on the first floor. These elements feature originality and modernity as well as acoustic support.

Canopy ceilings combine aesthetics with acoustic performance aimed at ensuring a higher sound absorption ratio compared to a continuous ceiling with the same visible surface. The sound is absorbed both by the front and the back surface of the panel. This significantly contributes to the reduction of reverberation time and increases the intelligibility of speech.

For the second-floor offices, Armstrong’s design team conceived a special broken-line pattern for the micro-perforated black mesh metal ceilings. These are ideal for installations in open-plan spaces where it is necessary to reduce noise pollution. A solution that creates an extremely dynamic visual effect, it is available in individual and multiple configurations, thanks to the C Profile suspension system that allows a tidy and clean alignment of the elements.

Lastly, on the sixth floor, in addition to the white baffles, C Profiles of different sizes have been used to embellish, through light and shade, the ceiling of the “Multipurpose Room”, a multi-functional room with different space configurations and a huge art wall.

Head of project management Alberto Cominelli said: “The office is no longer just a work space. It has actually become a company’s hallmark, where spaces are designed to bring inspiration, exchange ideas and create innovation. Only by creating a comfortable environment equipped with facilities dedicated to the people is it possible to increase engagement and motivate staff. Interior designers are more and more inspired by home and hotel designs, bringing an unprecedented breath of innovation to the world of offices.”

Armstrong area sales manager Jordan Brocchi added: “We would like to thank CBRE and architect Efrem Milia for trusting our solutions and involving us, giving value to the potential offered by Armstrong Ceiling Solutions in terms of personalisation.

“Now more than ever we are witnessing an increasing number of requests from architects and interior designers for support in the design of highly-customised solutions, to free their creativity in line with the rapidly evolving current trends. The requests are extremely diverse and to best respond to them, Armstrong has boosted its structure with a team of dedicated and highly-qualified engineers.”

More information is accessible via the Armstrong Ceilings website https://www.armstrongceilings.com/commercial/en-gb/

As one of the UK’s largest off-site manufacturing businesses, Caledonian knows a thing or two about modular buildings. It’s one of the reasons why the company has grown to a turnover in excess of £50m and with a goal firmly set on doubling this over the next 2 years you get the distinct impression they’re set to change how the industry works. Having been founded over 50 years’ ago and now operating from a 40-acre site in Newark, Nottinghamshire, they’re unusual in having one of the longest trading histories in the modular sector.

Success has come about by sticking to what it does best; high quality modular accommodation that is delivered to site with up to 96% of the build completed in its quality assessed manufacturing facility. Proof is in the pudding and they don’t get much bigger than the £53m Hinkley Point C worker accommodation contract that was successfully delivered in 2018. Effectively creating in ‘new town’ in just 51 weeks, it shows the capability of modular construction and how, if the government’s rhetoric on solving the UK’s housing crisis once and for all translates into action, Hinkley is the shape of things to come. Housing providers should take note of what Caledonian has achieved – effectively creating a modular new town at Hinkley that houses 1,496 workers in just 51 weeks.

Caledonian’s innovative modular building system means that programme savings of up to 50% or more are possible compared with traditional forms of construction. And the programme can be more predictable than when using conventional methods as well as reducing waste and number of deliveries to site.

Project delivery

A central pillar to the company’s growth is the ongoing focus on quality and project delivery. The underpinning methodology is to take a traditionally constructed building and apply latest manufacturing techniques to drive efficiencies. The three core areas of this are the use of BIM, design for manufacturing and assembly (DfMA) and lean manufacturing techniques.

The results are replicable, too. The latest is a £25m project that involves Caledonian working with Bowmer & Kirkland to manufacture high quality student accommodation as part of a £54m development for the University Campus of Football Business, First Way Campus in Wembley.

The 680 bedrooms will be manufactured and installed by Caledonian and, similar to Hinkley, will be 96% complete prior to shipping to site. That was one of the main reasons they were selected for this project; because they could show how the modules would help meet the strict deadline dates, which required handover by July 2020 in time for Euro 2020. First Way Campus is situated a few minutes’ walk from Wembley Stadium, and will include a mix of purpose-built student accommodation as well as academic, office and outdoor space.

Fire compliance capabilities of the modular system also featured highly in the selection process, due to the high rise nature of the development. It rises to 11 storeys and that really shows what is possible with the company’s modular building solution. Caledonian gave the client and design team confidence post Grenfell, providing a pre-engineered fire compliant modular solution suitable for a development of this scale.

Damian Flood, CEO of Cole Waterhouse, said “We liked the modular building solution proposed by Bowmer + Kirkland and its supply partner Caledonian for First Way Campus because it was a practical way of meeting the strict schedule. We are providing Wembley and the UCFB students with a fantastic campus that will include a number of facilities for students including purpose built accommodation (678 beds), seminar rooms and staff office spaces as well as amenities such as a café style restaurant, a gym and library/IT suite.”

Developers Cole Waterhouse brokered a deal with Unite Students, a leading provider of student accommodation in the UK. Caledonian has incorporated the Unite requirements into the design to provide a higher standard student living experience than is traditionally expected.

Modular Mindset

Caledonian is a company with an eye firmly set on the future and as Chief Executive Officer Paul Lang explains: “Our ability to deliver to a strict schedule and have an existing fire compliant solution made a compelling proposition for First Way Campus. We are able to achieve consistent project delivery by investing in BIM, design for manufacturing and assembly (DfMA) and lean manufacturing. In combination we believe that it will help us raise industry standards across the board. Our long term goal is to lead change in the industry by establishing a ‘modular mindset’ with clients and developers.”

For more information on Caledonian modular buildings and offsite construction solutions, visit: www.caledonianmodular.com

Rinnai’s Infinity range of 11i,17i &17e ErP A-rated continuous flow gas fired water heaters are specifically designed for low NOx domestic/light commercial use and guarantee the highest efficiencies and lowest running costs at consistently accurate temperatures 24/7 compared with any other method of hot water delivery.

The Rinnai Infinity range of continuous flow – sometimes referred to as ‘multi-point’ – water heating units are being specified and installed for domestic/residential sites including: cafes, pubs, restaurants, offices, shops, hairdressers, commercial units, caravan parks and leisure facilities as installers and end users become increasingly aware of their energy saving benefits.

The increase in uptake is because Rinnai’s low NOx continuous flow heater systems are proven to be more energy efficient than storage systems and as such are becoming the experts’ preferred method of hot water provision. The word is out that the Rinnai units easily cater for projects that need high volumes of water at intermittent times of day delivered at accurate temperatures to ensure user comfort and safety. They are also easy to operate and simple to install and maintain. Plus, they are all low NOx satisfying the Eco-design regulation.

Rinnai’s Infinity 17i unit, for example, eliminates fluctuations in water temperature, so, no more cold showers or scalding hot baths – the water temperature you set is the water temperature you get. So, if somebody is happily showering at 42°C and a tap is turned on to draw a bath elsewhere in the property, the temperature does not vary, and there is no chance of either user running out of hot water.

The Rinnai Infinity 17i interior model measures 675 x 370 x 139mm and weighs in at just 18kg. The room sealed unit has a temperature range of 35°C to 60°C with direct electronic ignition. Gas consumption ranges between 4.7kW-34.9kW for Natural Gas and 4.9kW-36.8kW when using LPG. Hot water delivery flow is an impressive 16ltr max flow and 2.4 ltr/min minimum flow. Nominal operation pressure is 1-7 bar and it uses a 230V AC 50Hz 1ph power supply with an electrical consumption of 68W.

Meanwhile, where an external installation is required, the Rinnai Infinity 17e external continuous flow water heater offers greater flexibility at the design stage and delivers a viable solution where flue runs are problematic or internal space is not available. Capable of flow rates reaching 510 litres per hour at a 50°C rise, the 17e is suitable for multiple applications and can be specified for use with Natural Gas or propane.

The 17e has full frost protection and is available with a range of external ancillary items, including pipe cover box – and security cage where necessary.

The Infinity 11i interior unit differs from the 17i as it weighs 2kg less at 16kg and consumes 6.10kW – 21.60kW of Natural Gas.

Under the ACOP L8 (Legionella guidelines), continuous flow water heaters are favoured as the units are normally positioned close to the outlets, in restaurants for example, where the system turnover is frequent and store volumes are small meaning legionella risk is minimal.

All three models are available ex-stock in either natural gas or LPG.

For more details on RINNAI products visit www.rinnaiuk.com

Launched almost a decade ago the highly successful Weber Rewards loyalty scheme for professional tilers has received a well-earned makeover. The dedicated new and improved Weber Rewards website, www.loveweber.co.uk, and Redeem on the Go app, will ensure the campaign remains innovative, unique and dynamic.

Weber Rewards has over 9,000 members who will benefit from an enhanced website that looks good, works faster and has improved functionality. The Weber Rewards catalogue has also been updated with new additions of exciting Rewards ranging from branded clothing, latest electronic equipment, get-away breaks, exclusive Virgin Experience Days and a selection of impressive wine. An at-a-glance points total is displayed and for those members who like to set a treat-goal a visual countdown calculator reveals exactly how many bags of Weber products are needed to reach the Rewards total.

“Nine of Weber’s best-selling products, including the new weberjoint premium grout, carry Rewards points,” says Tracey Dempster, marketing director, Saint-Gobain Weber. “This improved loyalty scheme is our way of ‘loving you back’ by rewarding customers with more than just great products.”

The Redeem on the Go app, which is available to download free from the App store or Google Play, allows customers to scan the QR codes on Weber Rewards stickers and automatically load points to their account. Improved functionality allows Weber Rewards to be ordered easily straight through the App.

The App features product details of the complete Weber range of adhesives, grouts and preparation products as well as invaluable stockist information, trade events, special promotions to win extra points and much more. Tilers can also keep up to date with the latest news on Weber Rewards through regular e-mails, social media and blog posts. Extra points can also be earned by Referring a Friend to the scheme.

Technical support is available from Weber’s experienced advisors who can offer on-site advice at specification stage and during application. The easy-to-use online tool WeberSpec will generate a free M40 outline specification for tilers and stockists and is free to access. Product demonstrations and problem solving advice is also available, as well as award winning training courses at the Saint-Gobain Technical Academy.

For more information about the Weber Rewards scheme or for technical support please contact Saint-Gobain Weber on 08703 330 070, or visit www.loveweber.co.uk. Follow LoveWeber on Twitter @LoveWeber and Facebook @WeberRewards for the latest company news and updates.
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.

Robyn Lunt and Tim Plumpton

RCM, Roofing and Cladding Materials Ltd, specialists in complete through wall solutions are once again increasing its sales team and announcing the appointment of two new team members.

Tim Plumpton is the new Regional Sales Manager for the Midlands, West and South West, specialising in the RCM building board range, airtightness solutions and breather membranes, as well as complete through-wall solutions.

He has ten years architectural glazing and building envelope experience and an impressive twenty-seven years building products experience. Tim has previously been national sales manager for a young and growing architectural aluminium systems house. This wealth of experience and a professional can-do attitude combined with a great sense of humour, make Tim an ideal choice.

Outside of work, Tim has a keen interest in sport, especially Powerboat and Jetski racing, having participated in these sports himself for many years.

The new Southern Facades Manager position for the south-east region has been taken up by Robyn Lunt. Robyn joins RCM from the Proctor Group, where she was engaged as Regional Sales Manager for the South-East. She has great knowledge of the construction industry. Impressively Robyn holds the coveted PCA (Property Care Association) qualification. The PCA is a government approved trade body for damp, waterproofing, wood preserving and invasive weeds industry. She also has experience dealing with breather membranes, insulation, acoustic flooring and gas protection membranes.

Outside of work, Robyn is a secret adrenaline junkie and loves keeping fit. Some of her past pursuits have been surfing, mountain biking and 4×4 off-roading.

Commenting on the new appointments, Ian Quinton, Managing Director of RCM said: “Both Tim and Robyn bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to their new positions at RCM. We are extending a very warm welcome to both and look forward to working alongside our new colleagues.”

For more details call 0800 612 4662  Email info@rcmltd.biz  www.buildingboards.co.uk

Makita UK has opened a third regional Factory Service Centre (FSC) in the busy London borough of Hounslow. This new FSC joins Makita’s HQ facility in Milton Keynes, which serves the whole of the country, as well as Glasgow, which supports the rapidly expanding market penetration of the brand in Scotland and northern England. The London FSC will primarily service the essential London and South East region. In order to offer the best service levels in the industry Makita is committed to offering improved national coverage for the benefit of end user customers, as well as the network of Makita distributors, by building these dedicated FSC’s.

While these facilities satisfy a vital role in providing technical repairs and maintenance services for all mains and cordless construction machines, and the rapidly expanding range of grounds care tools, including 2-stroke and 4-stroke petrol engine products, training remains the cornerstone of Makita’s marketing success. It ensures that both authorised distributors and operators are fully conversant with the power tools they own, or may purchase in the future; how to obtain the best and safest performance from these machines, and how to maintain them for efficiency and productivity.

The first FSC to be opened is based at South Street, Glasgow, which offers Makita product training across the complete range of products; product servicing courses, as well as accredited courses such as the successful and certificated City & Guilds Correct & Safe Use of Handheld Power Tools. A user or instructor certificate is issued upon successful completion. Courses are available to meet individual needs and bespoke power tool training can be designed to meet specific requirements.

At each location the theory elements of courses are held in a lecture theatre, followed by essential hands-on practical work which is carried out in specially adapted and fully equipped training demonstration rooms. Courses are of 1 or 2 day duration or tailored to specific needs. The CITB certificated course, which can include a combination of in-house and on-site training, relates to abrasive wheel training, and both instructor or user courses are available. Gas nailer user training, chainsaw cross cutting and service courses are also available.

Tony Coleman, Technical Manager, Makita UK, says: “We are already receiving a very warm welcome from all sectors of the power tool industry in this heavily populated area of west London. If demand becomes similar to that we’ve established in Glasgow and Milton Keynes we will be looking for additional training personnel. Both employers and operators will benefit from this convenient location offering improved local services to all customers.”

Makita has great experience in supporting worthwhile challenges as WorldSkills UK, APL Apprenticeships and Hire Association Europe Apprenticeship schemes to help support customers of the future with product and training support. Employees and employers can benefit from Makita’s outstanding training courses, which compliment high quality power tools used by professional trades’ people, raising ambitions and abilities for many.

The Makita range is supported with an equally comprehensive range of over 4,500 accessories and consumables products.

For more news and product information about Makita UK please visit www.makitauk.com. Follow us on Twitter @MakitaUK, Facebook.com/makitauk and google.com/+makitauk