The Natural Stone Show returns!

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Image: St James’s Market, London Portland limestone: Fancy Beach Whitbed; Grove Whitbed; and Jordan Whitbed from Albion Stone (Stand E6)

Returning for its 12th edition, the Natural Stone Show remains the only UK exhibition and conference dedicated to natural stone. Thousands of architects, designers, developers, stonemasons, wholesalers and retailers will flock to London’s ExCeL this April to see exhibitors from across the globe and enjoy 3 days of seminars; each seeking inspiration and advice for their next stone project.

If your marketplace is stone slabs, tiling or block; CNC machinery; diamond tooling; the latest fixing systems; sealants, adhesives, cleaning materials or another related product or service, then the Natural Stone Show is for you.

Natural Stone Show

Image: The Sainsbury Laboratory, Cambridge – England using Crosland Hill Hard Yorkstone paving from Johnsons Wellfield (Stand E25)

Natural Stone Show

Image: Private project, London   Silver travertine crafted by Ateliers Romeo (stand P16)

Register here for free tickets.
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South Shields starts a new chapter

South Shields is benefitting from a £16 million cultural centre featuring an iconic circular façade created with the Kingspan TEK Cladding Panel.

Contractors Bowmer & Kirkland have overseen the project, named ‘The Word, National Centre for the Written Word’. The three-storey structure designed by FaulknerBrowns Architects, includes library and exhibition space, IT suite, 3D printers, and café. The development, completed in October 2016, is part of a £100 million regeneration masterplan which partners South Tyneside Council with Muse Developments.

Creating a curved structure can pose a challenge, but the Kingspan TEK Cladding Panel was successfully engineered to provide a smooth, highly insulated exterior envelope. To achieve this, the structural insulated panels (SIPs) were designed and factory cut into narrow widths. This allowed them to be quickly and easily fixed to the concrete frame.

Steve McIntyre, Partner at FaulknerBrowns, explained their vision for the project: “The form and design approach of this iconic building seeks to establish a new benchmark in terms of quality of design, use of materials, and integration of public realm within the wider urban fabric of South Shields. This circular form encourages pedestrian movement between the Town Centre and the Riverside as well as having a striking and contemporary presence. The circular construction achieved with the Kingspan TEK Cladding Panel helped us to accomplish the concept of the spreading pages of a book.”

The 142 mm Kingspan TEK Cladding Panel installed on ‘The Word’ can help to achieve U-values of 0.20 W/m2.K or better whilst its OSB/3 facing and unique jointing system helps to minimise unnecessary air loss. The manufacturing facility where the panels are produced carries both FSC® (FSC®-C109304) and PEFC Chain of Custody certification. Also, there are constructions available that correspond to BRE Global Green Guide generic elements which achieve a Summary Rating of A+.

Councillor John Anglin, Lead Member for Regeneration and Economy at South Tyneside Council, said: “The new building needed to reflect our Sustainable Development goals, which is why we opted for low environmental impact and sustainable materials with a Green Guide rating of A or A+ whenever we could. This is to help us with our target of receiving a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating. We were also keen to ensure all timber used on the library was FSC® certified or equivalent.”

Both the Kingspan TEK Cladding Panel and Kingspan TEK Building System panels are now available in a 172 mm thickness, achieving even lower U-values of 0.17 W/m2.K or better.

For further information, please email literature@kingspantek.co.uk or visit www.kingspantek.co.uk.
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OPTIM-R installed at Aberdeen medical centre

GP practice staff in Aberdeen city are enjoying a new and improved environment at their purpose-built facility, with the help of the Kingspan OPTIM-R Balcony & Terrace System.

Woodside Fountain Health Centre is a bespoke build replacing the Woodside Medical Group’s premises on Western Road. The triple primary care facility offers a collaboration of services within the fully accessible building. The new health centre is comprised of 12 consulting rooms, a minor procedures room, treatment rooms, an NHS dental practice, and a team of community nurses. The project was overseen by contractors Miller Construction, which was acquired by Galliford Try in 2014.

The centre features a spacious roof terrace. To insulate this, whilst also maintaining an even transition from the internal area, 30 mm thickness of the Kingspan OPTIM-R Balcony & Terrace System was specified. Unlike conventional insulation, Kingspan OPTIM-R panels feature a microporous core which is evacuated, encased and sealed in a gas-tight envelope. This design allows the panels to achieve outstanding insulation performance with an aged thermal conductivity of 0.007 W/m.K, enabling the target U-value of 0.15 W/m2.K to be achieved with the slimmest possible construction. A further layer of Kingspan Styrozone was installed above the System, followed by a waterproof membrane and the final balcony surface.

The Kingspan OPTIM-R Balcony & Terrace System also includes OPTIM-R flex infill strips which can be cut to size, ensuring the System can meet all design requirements. When installed to Kingspan Insulation’s guidelines, the Kingspan OPTIM-R Balcony & Terrace System can provide outstanding long term thermal performance over the lifetime of a building.

Kingspan OPTIM-R has a BDA Agrément® certification for thicknesses of 20-40 mm. BDA Agrément® is recognised by professional bodies such as the NHBC and LABC, which can fast-track approvals and offers an assurance that the products are safe and effective.

For more information, please email info@kingspaninsulation.co.uk or visit www.kingspaninsulation.co.uk/optim-r.
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Kingspan Kooltherm K100 range expands

Kingspan Insulation has announced the launch of two new products to join their innovative new Kooltherm K100 Range, designed to deliver lower U-values with a minimal construction thickness.

Kingspan Kooltherm K112 Framing Board and K107 Pitched Roof Board are the latest products in the range, which was launched last year. Their advanced, fibre-free insulation core has a thermal conductivity of just 0.018 W/m.K across all available board thicknesses, the lowest for any rigid phenolic insulation board. This revolutionary composition offers architects, specifiers and builders the freedom to design and construct buildings with inherently outstanding fabric performance, without having to compromise on internal space.

All the products in the Kooltherm K100 Range are manufactured with a blowing agent that has zero Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) and very low Global Warming Potential (GWP). The insulation boards are non-deleterious, easy to handle and install, and are unaffected by air infiltration.

Kooltherm, Therma and KoolDuct insulation products and cavity closers manufactured at Kingspan Insulation’s facilities in Pembridge and Selby are certified to BES 6001 (Framework Standard for the Responsible Sourcing of Construction Products) ‘Excellent’.

The Kingspan Kooltherm K100 Range is now available on the Kingspan Insulation U-value Calculator, and detailed product brochures are available for download www.kingspaninsulation.co.uk.

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Sarnafil plus has Market roof covered

The roof refurbishment of Kirkgate Market in Leeds is a story of problem solving and partnership. Rising to the challenge, Protech Roofing and Sarnafil Plus delivered an exemplary solution, which allowed the market to remain open throughout.

Europe’s largest covered market, Kirkgate has 800 stalls attracting over 100,000 visitors a week. As part of a £14m refurbishment to improve the market for the stallholders and the public, the leaking roof, extending over both the 1976 and 1981 halls, needed renewing while the building was fully operational. Being such an important and iconic city landmark, viewable from many of the surrounding buildings, attention to detail and aesthetics were also incredibly important to the final result.

The Sarnafil Plus team did the groundwork to secure the tender with the architect, asserting the benefits of a Sarnafil system, Sarnafil Plus technical support and guarantee. Following this, Protech Roofing, a registered Sarnafil contractor, spent many hours visiting the site and attending meetings, gaining the trust of all parties.

Eamonn Cahill, Interserve senior project manager, said “Protech showed outstanding levels of proactive problem solving and integrity throughout the project. The Sika Sarnafil membrane has given the market hall roofs a smart, clean finish with the durability to keep the building weatherproof for years to come.”

The original design specification called for the existing felt waterproofing to be removed back to the metal decking. However, as this would cause massive disruption and with no guarantee of a watertight building. To combat this issue, Protech recommended a mechanically fastened Sarnafil system that could be overlayed onto the existing substrate.

A full Sarnafil Plus survey and moisture mapping revealed the worst areas for water ingress before the project started to assist with planning the work.

The nine-month project saw a team of between eight and 10 people working on the roof through all four seasons, including rain showers and temperatures of over 27°C., without the project or waterproofing ever being compromised.

Sarnavap 5000E SA a cold applied, self-adhesive vapour control layer was used to ensure temporary waterproofing for the market while the roofing work was being carried out. The SarnaTherm insulation boards were mechanically fixed into the existing roof and installation of Sarnafil S327-15EL Light Grey membrane with stainless steel fixings created a durable, weathertight and aesthetically pleasing finish. Sarnafil membranes are certified by the British Board of Agrement to have a service life in excess of 40 years, giving the client confidence in the durability and longevity of the roof.

A further feature of Sarnafil roofing systems that appealed to the client was that the Sarnafil S327-15EL Light Grey membrane is cold applied – welded together using hot air rather than with a naked flame. The system can be used without restrictions as it meets the fire performance requirements of BS476-Part 3:2004 and BS EN 13501-5:2005. This was an important safety consideration as the market had suffered a terrible fire back in 1975.

Six rooflights over 51m long were replaced with SarnaLites, situated close together in rows, making sure that the market continued to benefit from natural daylight. This part of the refurbishment was carried out at night to limit any disruption to the market below.

Sarnafil Plus visited the site regularly and a successful final inspection resulting in the issuing of a Sarnafil Plus guarantee.

For more information on Sika Sarnafil’s products and services, call 01707 394444, email sarnafilroofing@uk.sika.com or visit http://gbr.sarnafil.sika.com.
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Rinnai creates ‘system efficiency’ solution for longer life

Limescale can be a major contributor to a loss of efficiencies for water heating systems of any type, so leading continuous flow water heater manufacturer Rinnai has taken steps to maintain superior efficiencies throughout the life of the system by incorporating a proven limescale inhibitor that will significantly reduce the impact of limescale, thereby maximising efficiency over the product’s lifetime.

Rinnai has teamed up with electrolytic in line inhibitors, pioneers in limescale inhibitor technology, to maximise system efficiency on its range of A rated commercial water heaters.
This electrolytic scale inhibitor kit is for commercial hot water systems. Independently tested, it is a low-maintenance way to protect against the damaging and expensive impact of limescale on hot water systems.

Not only does it offer long lasting protection against the formation of hard limescale it also ensures bacteria has fewer places to hide as a result of cleaner surfaces, so in a secondary return DHW system the problem of Legionella is also heavily reduced. The independently tested and proven technology protects capital investment and occupier health.

The electrolytic zinc anode technology used in this solution is mentioned in the Part L Building Services Compliance Guide, whereas “external to pipe” water conditioning techniques are not.

The system’s low level zinc additions change the water chemistry to inhibit the formation of limescale by transforming calcite in such a way that they do not stick to the interior of the unit or pipework.

The system delivers value engineering as it does not decay after dosing and its effectiveness is not impacted by water storage or agitation caused by passing through a booster set.

Rinnai has recently supplied its system efficiency systems for London-based SGA Consulting, a specialist in low energy buildings, after liaising with the practice’s mechanical engineer Vivek Devan on two restaurant projects. Devan says “The Rinnai units are compact and their smaller footprint both physically and environmentally made them a good choice here. The scale inhibitor technology was also a factor.” Devan spoke with Rinnai technical experts before specifying the units and heard that Rinnai is actively promoting and selling scale inhibitor solutions following the successful results obtained from various trial sites.

The electrolytic unit may be installed in the rising main, before the water heater and booster set. Capex cost savings are probable because the rising main pipe size is often a smaller diameter than the hot and cold water distribution pipe sizes. Therefore, just one inhibitor system will treat the whole location, also offering an attractive value engineering opportunity.

The inhibitor is widely specified and installed in a range of sectors such as manufacturing, hotels, retail and supermarkets, healthcare and education as well as public authorities.

For buildings using BMS systems, a Pulse Splitter is an option that provides water flow rate or water usage data directly to the BMS from the water meter in the system.

The inclusion of the electrolytic system in Rinnai’s A-rated continuous flow water heating systems delivers peace of mind to installers and end users as performance is maintained throughout the lifetime of the appliances.

The scale protection units are available in a variety of pipe sizes – large 67,76 and 108mm; medium 28,35,42 and 54mm; and small 22mm.

For more information on the RINNAI product range visit www.rinnaiuk.com.
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Gatic rewards team success

Gatic Civil Drainage, a global leader in engineered surface water drainage and access covers, has rewarded two members of staff with role promotions to recognise their continuing success with the company.

James Haddon has been promoted from ‘Technical Assistant’ to ‘Regional Sales Engineer’, while Ian Leadbeter moves from the role of ‘Regional Engineer’ to ‘National Account Manager’.

James has been with Gatic for over four years. Over this time his focus was on project drawings, technical layout and calculating channel sizes using dedicated software. His new role puts James on the road visiting consultants, architects and customers in the South and South East. He is also involved in CPD presentations to increase specifications. James says: “I’m very excited with this new opportunity, and the chance to develop my career within the business. My technical background and knowledge is a big advantage when visiting key contacts and building relationships with customers. I’m thoroughly enjoying it.”

Ian joined Gatic 2½ years ago. His previous role involved visiting specifiers, carrying out CPD seminars and co-ordinating the Regional Sales Managers. Ian’s promotion to ‘National Account Manager’ involves working more closely with specifiers and end clients in Gatic’s key target sector of ports and airports. This includes major airports, Associated British Ports and the Ministry of Defence. Ian comments: “Starting a new role can be a bit daunting, but I’m working with a great team of people and it’s a privilege to be part of a successful and growing business.”

Gatic Civil Drainage is part of Alumasc Water Management Solutions, a leading brand in integrated water management, from rain to drain.

For more information, visit please www.gatic.com.
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COMPAC’s technological marble specified for luxurious Jordon hotel

COMPAC’s technological marble has been specified for the luxurious St Regis Hotel set in Amman, the historic capital of Jordon.

This 5-star hotel which is due to be completed later this year, will feature over its 124,000 sq metres of floor space: 270 rooms including 91 suites, four restaurants, a café, destination bar, pool and pool bar, fitness centre, signature spa and more than 2800m² of meeting and event space, and a business centre.

COMPAC’s technological marble tiles in Crema Madani were specified for over 12,000 sq metres of public space flooring to provide a stunning, hardwearing surface in range of intricate designs.
This composite stone has the appearance of marble but with properties that eradicate many of the difficulties associated with it, making it ideally suited for projects that wish to replicate the luxurious look and feel of natural marble but without the high maintenance, longevity and performance issues associated with it.

COMPAC’s technological marble has a hardness that is similar to marble but its resistance to impact and breakage is much greater owing to its enhanced flexibility, it is also much lighter and easier to fabricate and install on site.

Easy to clean and maintain, COMPAC’s technological marble is ideally suited for use on kitchen and bathroom floors, walls, vanity tops, building façades, and staircases and on high footfall areas such as airports, shopping malls, hotel foyers and public buildings.

For more information please visit www.compac.es.
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Independent tests cast doubt on claimed performance of some trickle vents

Concerned that Greenwood Airvac’s claims for the Equivalent Area (EA) and acoustic performance of some of its ventilation products may be inaccurate, Titon decided to submit Greenwood’s 5000EA ventilator and canopy (as well as Greenwood’s 5000EAW.AC2 and 2500AW.AC2 acoustic variants) and Titon’s own Trimvent Select, SF Xtra and SFX Sound Attenuator trickle vents for independent testing. These tests revealed a significant difference between performance data declared by Greenwood and the actual figures achieved during independent testing.

The independent EA testing, which measures airflow through the product, was conducted by the Building Research Establishment (BRE) and the acoustic testing by SRL Technical Services Ltd. The EA tests were carried out in accordance with UK Approved Document F (ADF) 2010 and the Scottish Technical Handbook 3.14.6 using the recognised test method to BS:EN 13141-1 clause 4. The independent testing substantiated the claimed performance data of the Titon Trimvent Select, SF Xtra and SFX Sound Attenuator trickle vents.

Greenwood’s 5000EA vent, known as Pyramid, and canopy is marketed in the UK as delivering 5000mm2 EA, yet the independent tests revealed the actual figure to be just over 4000mm2 EA. Similarly, the acoustic variant, 5000EAW.AC2, known as Pyracoust, only achieved 3634m2 EA. In addition, when these Greenwood products were tested for sound attenuation, the results show less attenuation than generally claimed.

No other products within the Greenwood portfolio were tested, as Titon’s research had only deemed that the products mentioned required further investigation.

Commenting on the testing, Tyson Anderson, Sales & Marketing Director at Titon said: “Titon prides itself on the accuracy of its stated products performance and test results and believes that the market benefits from factually accurate data derived from recognised test procedures. This data will help manufacturers and specifiers ensure compliance with Building Regulations and that the provision for ventilation in a dwelling is correct for its occupants’ health and wellbeing. All our test reports are available for reference and can be explained if required.”

For more information about Titon, please visit: www.titon.co.uk.
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Kalwall® brings light and security to Gatwick Airport

Good lighting is always essential but sometimes a well-lit interior also needs to be discreet when viewed from outside. This is the case with the very long Pier 1 which runs alongside the baggage system and gates at Gatwick Airport’s South Terminal Building. The two stringent requirements of privacy and security have been neatly solved using Kalwall®, with the added benefit of enhancing the long walkway by creating a pleasant interior ambience.

Kalwall offers complete line-of-sight protection, maintaining privacy for building occupants while bathing the interior with diffused daylighting regardless of the weather. It can also be manufactured for blast resistant applications such as in airports and other sensitive public environments, or to protect workers in areas at risk from explosions, such as in refineries or industrial complexes. Kalwall is also key to overcoming security concerns. Apart from providing visual protection, its inherent strength makes it ideal for secure locations. With heavy duty impact resistance properties, access through wall or rooflights can be denied while fire and most chemicals will not affect its surface.

Aesthetically, Kalwall will eliminate shadows and glare and the stark contrasts of light and shade. The system also enhances simplicity by doing away with the need for blinds, curtains or solar control. Even on cloudy days, the interior is flooded with natural daylight, which means less artificial lighting and, because Kalwall is highly insulating, energy costs are reduced. The standard Kalwall 70mm thick panel offers insulation up to 0.28W/m2K – equivalent to a cavity filled solid wall.

Apart from being specified for all types of new build project, Kalwall is increasingly used for the refurbishment of cladding or rooflights on aged buildings.

Case studies and technical information are available from Structura UK Ltd, Tel: 01233 501 504 or visit www.structura-uk.com/kalwall.
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