Rinnai Solo for low NOx continuous flow on demand hot water……but with a store….

Rinnai Infinity Solo condensing and low NOx water heater is said to be the first of its kind in the UK to combine the advanced technology of low NOx wall mounted continuous flow water heaters with a stainless steel storage cylinder, all in one compact footprint.

The design parameters of this product allow specifiers, designers, installers and engineers to benefit from unique Rinnai technology in applications it was once not previously possible. For instance, the Infinity Solo features both 35kW and 54kW sized appliances, ensuring sites with a smaller gas meter can readily use this technology. The larger Infinity Solo model will also act as a high-efficiency alternative to gas fired storage appliances that exist in today’s market.

The cylinder is stainless steel and this reduces the weight compared to glass lined models, and it makes transportation, handling and installation a lot easier. As well as the difference in weight, the cylinders also have extremely low heat loss figures (as low as 1.41kW/h day), so the user pays less to maintain the heat within the tank.

Another benefit of the Infinity Solo with stainless steel cylinder is that the life expectancy of the material is far greater than that of a glass-lined equivalent as glass suffers from thermal shock causing it to crack after a period of time.

The Infinity Solo range is also renewables compatible and supplied pre-fitted with a coil, meaning that the primary energy source will always be from renewable gains and the complementary Rinnai water heater will only apply the precise amount of gas to boost the difference in temperature.

Rinnai manufactures the energy efficient Infinity range of low NOx gas fired continuous flow water heaters and space heaters. The Infinity brand carries the widest range of condensing water heaters on the market today with the most impressive efficiencies in operation, leading the field in technological innovation.

For more information on the RINNAI product range visit www.rinnaiuk.com
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Makita launches 18V 16G LXT finishing nailer

  • Cutting edge nailing technology
  • Exceptional runtime
  • Neat and compact, durable and rugged
  • Designed for second fix operations whatever the weather

The new and eagerly awaited Makita DBN600ZJ 18V LXT finishing nailer is setting new standards in nailing technology. Engineered for 16 gauge finishing nails, from 25 to 60mm in length, this nailer is particularly suitable for second fix construction site installations such as applying skirtings, architraves and doorways, and electrical fixtures and plumbing connections, which require a neat, professional visual appearance.

Powered by a single 18V Makita Lithium-Ion battery the powerful motor will deliver up to 800 shots on a fully charged 4.0Ah battery. The magazine has the capacity to carry 110 nails and when empty the machine weighs a comfortable 3.4kg. A conveniently designed window allows for easy checking of the remaining quantity of nails.

Operator accuracy and firing efficiency are the keys to the new Makita finishing nailer. The easy-to-see slim tip nose is not shielded from view and the driving depth is easily adjusted by dial, while tool-less nail jam clearing adds speed and efficiency and reduces downtime. The anti-dry firing mechanism ensures that a nail is in the ready position; if the magazine is empty or the nails are not positioned correctly the nailer will not operate saving battery life and enhancing safety. The ergonomically designed grip, LED job light and belt clip ensures operator comfort and convenience, together with low vibration and sound level.

This new tool can be used in either bump-fire mode – where the nose is bumped against the target material to activate it – or in sequential mode where the tip is placed on the target and the trigger pulled. Mode selection is by rocker switch and a bumper ensures that the workpiece is fully protected from scratches and damage.

Recoil has been substantially reduced in this new Makita nailer allowing better tool control in rapid applications. It also reduces the effort required from the operator to control the nailer when constantly repositioning the tool for the next shot.

The Makita DBN600ZJ cordless, gas-less nailer ensures low running costs while downtime during low temperatures and cold weather working will be a thing of the past. It is supplied as a body only machine in a rugged, sturdy and protective Makpac case.

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
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EPIC is the first trade body to support ‘100% Hackitt’

Engineered Panels in Construction (EPIC) has thrown its full weight behind the ‘100% Hackitt’ campaign to help drive the industry to adopt all 53 recommendations from ‘The Independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety’.

“EPIC members manufacture highly-engineered, thoroughly-tested building elements which can be relied upon to perform predictably in service,” says EPIC general secretary Chris Pateman. “So Dame Judith Hackitt’s insistence on seeing high-rise buildings as complex systems, selecting materials in the light of proven engineering performance and resisting ‘quick-fix’ solutions, absolutely resonates with everything EPIC has been striving to achieve for the last 15 years.”

‘100% Hackitt’ is an initiative launched in October 2018 by two building specialists, British Board of Agrément (BBA) and Local Authority Building Control (LABC). It aims to bring together individuals and organisations, ranging from architects to fire fighters, to support Dame Judith Hackitt’s vision of “a radical rethink of the whole system”. Within the 159-page report, she argues that an immediate and extended implementation of the whole plan is necessary to create a robust regulatory framework. That, if the industry cherry-picks its actions, it “will fail to achieve the systemic change sought. The framework operates as a mutually reinforcing package and requires the implementation of its interdependent components in order for this to be achieved”.

“EPIC is proud to lend its support to ‘100% Hackitt’ which strives to achieve a proper, balanced, engineering approach,” says Chris Pateman. “We hope to see more companies and organisations joining us to reinforce the importance of this message, to lobby the Government for swift and effective change, and to help support the industry transform the way it works to ensure safe, future-proofed buildings.”

As a major contributor to UK and European consultative groups, EPIC has been actively involved in fire testing and research for over a decade. It contributes important information and proven data about the fire performance of insulated panel systems to specifiers, contractors and fire professionals. EPIC and its management team has consistently advocated for root-and-branch reform and not ‘quick-fix’ solutions.

To read more about ‘100% Hackitt’, or offer your support, visit www.100-hackitt.co.uk

EPIC is the voice of the polyisocyanurate (PIR) insulated panel manufacturing industry in the UK, promoting fire safety, energy efficiency and sustainability best practice. It provides clear guidance, information, support and inspiration for those involved in the design and construction of buildings using high performance insulated panel systems.

For further information, please contact EPIC on Tel:0330 221 0499 Email: info@epic.uk.com Web: www.epic.uk.com
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A lesson in acoustic control in education

With research highlighting that ineffective sound control has a lasting negative impact on education performance , it’s an ideal time for those involved in the education build sector to reflect on whether they are implementing adequate acoustic control to ensure building compliance in accordance with BB93. Here Rodney Davidson, Head of Specifications at AG looks at current standards and highlights Cheltenham Ladies College where AG’s Alphacrete® Acoustic masonry was used to create an aesthetically pleasing, calm, safe and health-promoting space.

Acoustic control: Why it’s important

The link between ineffective noise control and a poor education performance affects those involved in the Education build sector two-fold. Firstly, careful consideration should be given as to whether the correct building products to control external noise pollution and safeguard the health and wellbeing of the school’s surrounding community and local residents have been used. For example, a gymnasium housing a loud basketball game with cheering crowds should not be heard in nearby classrooms where lessons are taking place. Beyond the obvious distraction to students, proven hormonal responses to loud, unpredictable sounds suggests that students exposed to chronic loud noises over time are at risk of damage to their general health and mental wellbeing, not to mention academic performance.

Secondly, consideration should be given as to whether the correct building products have been specified to instil adequate reverberation time control within each particular room or space. Without appropriate acoustic control measures in place large unfurnished areas like sports halls or assembly halls will have extremely long reverberation times; in layman’s terms this means that the room will have a lot of echo and it will be difficult to hear and understand speech or music within that space which is not at all ideal for students in a learning environment.

What are the current standards?

BB93: February 2015 sets out, minimum performance standards for acoustic requirements of school buildings. The overall objective of the performance standard is to ensure that the design and construction of school buildings provide acoustic conditions that enable effective teaching and learning.

All parties involved in the build have a responsibility to ensure the products used successfully help to control reverberation time and meet the performance standard set out in section 1.5 table six of BB93: 2015.

Achieving the right reverberation characteristics is critical to the acoustic performance of an interior space, particularly in school buildings. Good acoustics reduce distraction from airborne noises and make it easier to hear people speak, which is critical in a learning environment and helps aid and enhance pupils’ learning capabilities.
Acoustic control in action

AG completed the impressive gymnasium at the Cheltenham Ladies College in Gloucestershire using AG’s Alphacrete® acoustic block range; providing structural support and optimumal light reflectance value (LRV) for sports halls according to Sport England’s guidance.

The low-maintenance blocks arrived on site in the chosen colour (Ernestone Buff) negating the need for painting or adding a protective sealant, and were built below wooden panelling at Cheltenham Ladies College to create a distinctive contrasting aesthetic that was practical too. Alphacrete® acoustic block’s durable surface made the hall hard-wearing against knocks, bangs and wayward balls, whilst also absorbing sound efficiently.

The brief included the need for a brand-new wall mounted basketball and netball nets. Sports equipment, door frames and window sets are all easily integrated with Alaphacrete® acoustic when installed in line with AG’s design guidelines.

Alphacrete® acoustic blocks are compatible with a wide range or mortar blends. For this particular project M4 Medium Buff mortar was used as supplied by CPI Mortars.

Peace of mind with Alphacrete

Design and build contractors and Specifiers can now have the BB93 reverberation time compliance confirmed prior to construction when AG’s Alphacrete Acoustic range is used, negating the need for post construction testing. For more details contact AG’s specification team at specifications@ag.uk.com or visit www.ag.uk.com.
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Protect Membranes delivers U-value benefits for new modular innovation

A variety of wall construction membranes, roofing underlays and accessories from Protect has been installed into an innovative new modular concept manufactured by Tingdene Homes, holiday and park home specialists.

Offered under the THL Modular branding, The Loft is a contemporary two-storey holiday home designed and manufactured completely offsite in Tingdene Homes’ factory, using cutting edge design and high end specification to meet the needs of the growing “staycation” market. Fully LABC product approved and constructed to UK Building Regulations, The Loft can be built to suit varied client needs ranging from a two or three bedroom luxury lodge to a two or four room hotel pod, club house or café. A number of Protect products were supplied and installed on THL Modular’s first show home, including Protect BarriAir, an internal airtightness membrane, Protect VC Foil Ultra used as the insulating low emissivity vapour control layer, Protect TF200 Thermo insulating low emissivity breather membrane for external walls and Protect VP400 Plus LR, a roofing underlay offering unrestricted wind uplift resistance, and exceptional vapour permeability.

Phil Harold, Quality Assurance Manager at Tingdene Homes commented “The use of numerous Protect products for this development helped us meet specification and achieve our target U-values of 0.18 W/m2K for external walls and 0.14W.m2K for the roof element. With the numerous benefits of offsite manufacture over traditional construction including build speed, quality precision and reliability, we wanted a supplier who understood these principles to ensure our delivery demands were met. Protect supplied products quickly which enabled our process to run without interruption and facilitated swift turnaround at the factory.”

Protect’s range of wall, ceiling and floor construction membranes together with its roofing underlays and accessories provides a comprehensive solution to the modular build sector. In particular, Protect construction membrane products with reflective technology help deliver thermal efficiency benefits to meet low target U-values and ensure compliance with relevant Building Regulations.

For details of how Protect products can be incorporated into residential and commercial builds, please visit www.protectmembranes.com, email info@protectmembranes.com or call 0161 905 5700, quoting ‘The Loft.’
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Supplier of the year award for AG

One of Northern Ireland’s leading manufacturers of Hard Landscaping and Building Products, AG, has been named ‘Supplier of the Year 2018’ at national awards; beating off stiff competition from large-scale manufacturers across the UK.

Tyrone-based AG was awarded the prestigious NBG Award within the ‘Civils and Landscaping CMT’ category at the independent builders merchant buying group’s gala event in Liverpool.

The awards honour the building industry’s major brands, recognising their contribution to the business success of NBG’s merchant partners.

NBG is a community of independent merchants committed to collective buying power and supporting suppliers in the building, plumbing and civils industries.

Stuart Thomas, Head of Sales at AG commented, “We are delighted to have received this award. Builders merchants play a key role in supporting AG’s business growth, so to be recognised as the top supplier of civils and landscaping products by NBG is fantastic.

“Well done to AG’s production, sales support, sales teams and the wider business for the hard work and determination which helped beat off some stern competition for this award.”

Pictured L-R: Stuart Thomas (AG), Tim Rowbottom (AG), the Chairman of the Category for Civils and Landscaping for NBG, Neil Cauldwell (AG) and Ben Westwood (AG).

For further information please visit www.ag.uk.com
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Ariston launches White Paper assessing heating in the UK rental market

Ariston has launched a new White Paper: How modern heating and hot water systems can help solve the challenges of the UK rental market. The paper, which is available to download here, examines the many challenges facing the UK rental market, and reveals how modern heating systems – as well as advances in technology – can help landlords meet them.

The document addresses key aspects such as tackling fuel poverty, improving energy efficiency and making the smart choice with controls. It also outlines the importance of carbon monoxide safety and proper boiler commissioning.

Commenting on the White Paper, Victoria Gutierrez, Marketing Manager at Ariston, said: “With a quarter of all households in Britain estimated to be renting privately by 2021 – and the sector expected to continue to grow – energy efficiency in rental properties is more important than ever.”

She continued: “The topic of energy efficiency is important to Ariston as a brand, so we have produced this White Paper to advise on the most effective means of supply heating and hot water to rental properties. We are uniquely placed to offer advice and guidance to landlords alike on key issues such as gas safety and fuel poverty, so it makes sense to share our knowledge with those in the rental sector.”

To download a copy of the White Paper, visit: http://www.ariston.com/uk/Homeowner/white_paper_heating_uk_rental_market

Ariston Thermo UK, which is part of the Ariston Thermo Group, is a manufacturer of domestic heating, hot water and renewable products. With over 20 years of experience in the UK, Ariston Thermo is a worldwide leading company in the heating and water heating industry.

For more details about Ariston, visit: www.ariston.co.uk or follow @AristonUK on Twitter.
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Altro Orchestra looks the part in eye clinic

Altro Orchestra™ smooth flooring has been used to transform the eye clinic at Torbay Hospital, South Devon’s main hospital. The flooring, ideal for areas where comfort and sound reduction are important, was used to replace old carpet floor tiles that were no longer suitable.

The Estates Building Supervisor worked closely with and was fully supported by Altro to choose the right product for the clinic. Altro met with the ward and building supervisors to discuss floor options.

Roberts Flooring installed the Altro Orchestra. Scott Andrews, Estimator at Roberts Flooring said: “We fitted out the Eye Surgery Waiting Room in two contrasting colours Altro Orchestra ‘Bassoon’ and Altro Orchestra ‘Soul’. Aesthetically the design looks really good. The floor was easy to fit, which you would expect from Altro.”

Paul Gaunt, Building Maintenance Manager, Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust said: “The installation went really well, there was a noticeable difference to the floor area as the installation progressed. The waiting area now benefits from a more professional look with improved natural light using the two colours. Altro Orchestra is really easy to clean and can be machine cleaned.”

2.85mm Altro Orchestra has been engineered to create the ideal environment to learn and live. Low residual indentation facilitates the flexible use of equipment and furniture, including hospital beds. At the same time, the integrated impact sound insulation system cuts impact sound by up to 15dB.

It offers comfort underfoot making life easier on the feet of patients or students, but particularly hard-working staff who spend countless hours on the move.

With a palette of 40 colours and designs varying from calming neutrals reflecting tones of nature, to vibrant shades, Altro Orchestra allows you to create the right atmosphere every time. It coordinates with Altro Operetta and Altro Serenade for a complete look throughout.

For further information, please visit www.altro.co.uk
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Lindapter launches new modular booklet at the Offsite Construction Show

Since 1934 Lindapter has pioneered the design and manufacture of steel connections that eliminate the need for welding or drilling on site. Whether securing structural steel sections, cable management systems or constructing modular buildings, Lindapter has a proven, accredited and adjustable connection that will allow fast alignment during construction.

The adjustability of Lindapter’s clamping systems is particularly beneficial to contractors working in the modular or offsite industry because it allows them to maximise efficiencies and control costs. For example, cable managements systems contain several components that need to be positioned correctly as fast as possible.

Lindapter’s Girder Clamps allow contractors to loosely fasten the cable tray modules into position before aligning into position and tightening the clamps with standard hand tools to complete the installation. Girder Clamp by Lindapter also allows for a convenient disassembly or removal for maintenance, while preserving the integrity of the steelwork.

Hollo-Bolt by Lindapter is also used extensively in the modular construction industry. A recent example is The Spurn Discovery Centre in East Yorkshire where Hollo-Bolts were used to connect the Structural Hollow Section (SHS) frameworks of the rooms together.

The Hollo-Bolt was selected because of its high strength capacity and its range of independent technical accreditations, including the CE Mark and the ICC-ES seismic approval for resisting wind loads in all seismic design categories.

The Hollo-Bolt allowed a fast and convenient installation process from the inside of the modular rooms using just standard hand tools, which resulted in an efficient construction schedule.

Find out more about Lindapter steelwork applications in the new modular and offsite construction booklet that is now available for download from www.Lindapter.com.
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Collaboration is the key to creative structural solutions

The structure of a building is integral to its success: choosing the right material and method of construction can affect everything from the finished project’s BREEAM rating to the return on investment. Getting it right from the beginning is crucial.

With potential legislation changes pending, working with a partner you can trust is just as important than the final choice of the structural frame solution. An experienced structural specialist is ideally placed to work alongside architects, main contractors and even the end client to deliver a successful scheme that meets regulations and exceeds expectations for all involved.

At B&K Structures, we have a long history of innovation to ensure that our projects will stand the rigours of time, conform to legislation, offer environmental benefits as and meet the design challenges.

Our commitment to innovation means we think beyond the structural frame, moving forward towards more frame and envelope solutions which will include full system testing from the outset ensure that our products interact with all elements of the building.

The options

Different projects call for different solutions, and we work closely with designers and our supply chain partners to deliver the correct result.

We always look for ways we can add value to projects – whether it’s reducing the load on the foundations whilst gaining additional storey heights, or maximising floor space to create airy interiors. Certain materials lend themselves to applications more than others.

Greener structures

For projects where sustainability and reducing environmental impact is a key target, engineered timber is the best option, and we remain fully behind our cross laminated timber (CLT) and glulam offering. Our timber products are fully PEFC or FSC certified, and the carbon is locked into the building rather than released to the atmosphere.

Timber is the only truly renewable construction material, and when combined with offsite construction methods, CLT’s impact on a project’s sustainability is impressive – especially where there are carbon reduction targets in place.

Using CLT as a structural material will lower the overall mass of the building, having a positive impact on foundation and piling design, reduces construction programmes and allow follow on trades to the start much sooner in the process then traditional build solutions. CLT also brings forward fewer site personnel, fewer deliveries, all helping to have a positive impact on the local community during the construction phase.

Reduced costs, reduced time on-site, and increased return on investment makes CLT a future heavyweight in residential construction.

Glulam is a structural element that is used in both vertical columns and in roofing trusses and supports. In terms of performance, it is comparable to light gauge steel frames and reinforced concrete structures whilst being, respectively, more sustainable and considerably lighter.

Where steel works

Where space and floor areas are a priority, we encourage our clients to consider steel. We have over 35 years’ experience in structural steel, so for projects which require open, airy spaces with uninterrupted square footage on the ground, we know that steel is often the best solution.

Steel structures use slim columns and large unsupported spans and are ideal for new build projects and refurbishments. What’s more, our offsite construction methods allow us to accommodate changes to the design during construction, and its lightweight nature means it can be installed quickly.

When we couple a steel frame with CLT floor decks on commercial builds, we begin to see a very compelling argument.

At B&K Structures our extensive use of BIM modelling cuts down on waste during the manufacturing of the glulam element, and our offsite construction methods with factory-controlled conditions allow us to create the glulam structural elements with minimal on-site contact.

And with the option to combine CLT or glulam with steel elements as part of a hybrid structure, we can help to control costs, create innovative solutions and improve the environmental impact and aesthetic of buildings in equal measure.

Whatever the project, we can work with our partners to devise a long-lasting structural solution that not only ticks all the boxes but safeguards the development for the future.

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