New Swish Building Products accreditation 'scores' developers Code points
Swish Building Products has secured the green standard BES6001 across its roofline range, delivering instant point wins to house builders under the Code for Sustainable Homes.

The PVC roofline specialist joined a handful of companies to have secured the new standard in the summer meeting a range of strict criteria ensuring responsible sourcing of construction products.

Including an assessment of organisational governance, supply chain management and social and environmental impact, the new standard was written into the Code for Sustainable Homes in late 2010.

In securing the standard across its PVC fascia, soffit, cladding and window board ranges Swish Building Products is able to offer developers access to a product offer that gives them maximum points under the Code (tier level 1).

This represents to date a unique achievement for a PVC company, matching FSC timber specifications in Mat2 and Mat3 of the Code. The Swish certification can also be viewed on the Green Book Live website www.greenbooklive.com

Greg Wilde, Swish Building Products, said: "We believe that the standard is confirmation of just how serious Swish is about its responsibilities to its customers and to the wider construction industry.

"In ensuring that we source our materials in a responsible and ethical manner we’re able to support our customers in delivering sustainable new homes efficiently and effectively and with minimal impact on the environment."

BES6001 'pulls' together a number of other standards to demonstrate a commitment to responsible sourcing of materials. Swish Building Products only secured the new standard after previously securing the quality management standard ISO9001, the environmental management standard ISO14001 and occupational health and safety OHSAS18001.

Swish also had to demonstrate that it had policies and management systems in place to make sure that the raw materials it purchases come from responsibly and sustainably managed sources.

For more information on Swish's full range of rainwater, roofline and cladding products visit www.swishbp.co.uk or call 01827 317 200. Index

John Newton - Waterproofing a Garage, Essex
Waterproofing a garage conversion with Newton System 500 Cavity Drain Waterproofing

Project Details
The client of this magnificent house in Chelmsford had an existing garage area where previous waterproofing attempts had failed, and the space had significant issues with water ingress. Newton Specialist Basement Contractor AP Gooch was commissioned to the project to design and install a waterproofing system that would not only deal with the water ingress problems but change the use of the space from a garage to a games room for their growing family.

Methodology
After stripping out the existing finishes back to the original building fabric, AP Gooch installed the Newton System 500 cavity drain membrane system. Newton 508 membrane was mechanically fixed to the 3 earth retaining elements of the basement with Newton MultiPlugs. Then Newton Basedrain was rebated into the existing slab in a "horseshoe" formation so that any ingression of water through the walls or the wall/floor junction was guided into the Basedrain zone. This design works extremely well on this property as being a garage it had an open elevation to the front of the property so that any water entering the Basecrain could then via gravity be discharged out to the open elevation. Any defects in the floors were protected with Newton 101F applied Type A waterproofing, and then treated with Newton Lime Inhibitor.
Newton 520 20mm deep cavity drain membrane was then fitted to the floor and sealed to the up stand of the Basedrain. A layer on insulation was then placed on the floor membrane followed by a 65mm screed. Once the screed was cured, an independent dry lining system was installed with insulation and services placed within the framework ready for boarding and decorating.

Result
The basement waterproofing and all internal finishes were completed by AP Gooch Ltd in a timely and cost effective manner giving a whole new living space for the client.

Benefits
- The BBA accredited Newton Membrane System was applied with minimal surface preparation without expensive preparation works which would have been required with an applied wet tanking system.
- The layout of the property meant that mechanical means of water extraction was required due to the Basedrain being able to capture the water at the weakest point and guide it out via gravity.
- The client could delegate the whole project to AP Gooch Ltd with peace of mind of an insured backed guarantee for the works.

Read More: www.newton-membranes.co.uk/case-studies-list/basement_waterproofing/waterproofing-a-garage-conversion/

Further Information and Registered Installers

For further information about waterproofing a garage and a list of Registered Installers in your area, please ring 020 7237 1217 or fill out our online form www.newton-membranes.co.uk/request-list-of-registered-installers/ Index

Faceted Curtain Walling and more than 400 Aluminium Windows from Technal for New World Class College in Hartlepool
The new £53m Hartlepool College of Further Education features extensive use of architectural aluminium façade systems from Technal.

Designed by Bond Bryan Architects and built by Miller Construction, the new state-of-the-art campus brings world class education and training facilities together in an iconic building and is set to make a significant impact on the town of Hartlepool, on both its economy and the local community.

The 19,000sqm scheme consists of two blocks linked by a continuous curved atrium space. The central core accommodates shared social facilities and the Learning Core, with classrooms, offices, conferencing suite, restaurant, fitness centre and salons in the north wing and large-scale skills academy spaces in the east wing.

Technal's MX Visible Grid faceted curtain walling provides floor-to-ceiling glazing for the two-storey main entrance elevation and to the rear façade which spans four storeys and encloses the food court and Learning Core. The MX system was also used for the single storey curtain walling to the workshop areas, a full height glazed entrance lobby and three stair towers.

The curtain walling is complemented by Technal's FXi65 high performance aluminium windows. More than 400 units were used as composite systems comprising top hung open-out windows and fixed lights, finished in dark grey and set into contrasting white render.

The doors were also supplied by Technal - the CD system was specified in both an automatic sliding configuration for the main entrances and as hinged doors for the fire exits.

Commenting on the project, Jeff Hedley, Project Manager at Miller Construction, said, "We were pleased with how the curtain walling came together on site. Both the windows and the curtain walling were easy to install and look very good - and the faceted glazed façade set into black zinc panelling is particularly dramatic. Technal performed very well."
Adam Jones, Associate at Bond Bryan Architects, added, "Natural light was very important on this project. The Technal window system allowed us to achieve a linear effect of continuous glazing. The MX curtain walling system has provided us with a good facet to give the appearance of a curved façade for the front and rear elevations."

Technal's FXi window suite uses a technically advanced framing system with unobtrusive narrow sight lines. It is available in three module sizes - 46mm, 52mm and 65mm, giving architects and contractors the flexibility to deliver enhanced thermal efficiency and to meet project-specific requirements such as aesthetics, performance, and cost.

MX curtain walling is fully compatible with the FXi window suite, and can be used to create a wide variety of architectural compositions from a single grid system - low to high rise façades, horizontal or vertical emphasis, and ribbon, structural, faceted, beaded and sloped glazing. MX Acoustic for additional noise protection and MX62 for larger glass sizes are the latest additions to the extensive range of MX curtain walling options.

For further information about Technal's portfolio of commercial aluminium window, door, curtain walling, and low rise façade systems, visit www.technal.co.uk or call 01924 232323 Index

John Newton - Newsletter - BS8102 Understand Your Liabilities
To view John Newton & Company's latest Newsletter for BS8102 Understand Your Liabilities, please click here

For further information or advice about any of John Newton & Company's products, contact 020 7237 1217 or visit www.newton-membranes.co.uk Index

ANCON to exhibit solutions to heat loss in buildings at Ecobuild 2012 and announces an alliance with brick manufacturer Ibstock
Ancon Building Products is joining other leading manufacturers of sustainable, energy-efficient construction solutions and showcasing its range at Ecobuild 2012.

Stand number N1110 will address the important issue of heat loss through thermal bridging. It will feature Ancon's extensive range of low thermal conductivity cavity wall ties, which includes the unique basalt-fibre TeploTie. Also on display will be a range of Thermal Breaks for use at other locations where the insulated building envelope is interrupted, such as balconies and brickwork support brackets. Each Ancon product being exhibited is an innovative, yet cost-effective and practical, means of improving the thermal performance of a structure.

Ancon will be joined on stand N1110 by Ibstock, the UK's leading brick manufacturer. This Ancon-Ibstock alliance, specifically for Ecobuild 2012, brings together two areas of expertise from within the masonry sector. Brick is the UK's most popular cladding material by some margin, and this collaboration provides visitors with an opportunity to discuss project performance and aesthetics on a single exhibition stand.

Many of Ancon's high integrity fixings are engineered from stainless steel which has a lower thermal conductivity than other metals and is 100% recyclable at the end of a long, maintenance-free service life. Brick also offers exceptional sustainability credentials including a 150 year life, combined with thermal mass and cost benefits over other building systems.

Call 0114 275 5224 or visit www.ancon.co.uk for more information. Index

Ancon Showcasing New Products at the Concrete Show 2012
Stand Number K1

Ancon will be showcasing its comprehensive range of products for structural concrete at this year's Concrete Show.

Visit stand number K1 to discuss the new Lockable Dowel for use at temporary movement joints in post-tensioned concrete and the Eurocode-compliant design program for Shearfix punching shear reinforcement. Other Ancon products on display will include the MultiJoint system for ground bearing concrete slabs, Eazistrip reinforcement continuity systems, Isolan insulated balcony connectors and a comprehensive range of threaded and mechanically bolted reinforcing bar couplers.

The Lockable Dowel replaces the need for 'pour strips' at temporary movement joints in post-tensioned concrete frames, significantly increasing the rate of construction. It allows initial shrinkage of the concrete to take place before the dowel bar is locked in position with epoxy resin. It has been recognised by both the Construction Products Association and Construct Concrete Structures Group for the site efficiencies it offers.

The enhanced Shearfix design program can be used to carry out punching shear designs to Eurocode 2 and BS8110. Ancon Shearfix is installed within a concrete slab to reinforce column heads against punching shear and consists of double-headed steel studs welded to flat rails. The design software simplifies specification by calculating the optimum stud centres and rail layout.

Ancon's sales and technical representatives will be on hand at the show to discuss your current and future project requirements. For more information please visit www.ancon.co.uk/concrete Index

Hambleside Danelaw appoint Andy Fell as new Dryseal Manager
Marketing of Hambleside Danelaw's GRP roofing systems has received a significant boost with the appointment of Andy Fell as the company's new Dryseal Manager.

Andy brings to Hambleside extensive experience of installing GRP flat roofing products since 1984 and fitting Dryseal as a contractor since the mid 1990's. Previously with Ashgate Roofing, his new brief is to secure a larger profile for Dryseal and especially the RibTec membrane within the roofing market.

Manufactured in the UK by a British company, the Dryseal GRP component based roofing system for flat and low pitched roofs comes with the easy 'Fit and Finish' installation. It has been available as a proven solution for new build and refurbishment projects for over 20 years and the system totally encapsulates the roof with a single material. It requires no heat or flames for installation.

In 2010, the improved Dryseal range for domestic, commercial, industrial and heritage applications arrived on the market after a comprehensive product evaluation, carried out in conjunction with its network of approved contractors.

The new role of Dryseal Manager will oversee the strong promotion and branding of RibTec as a product, identifying its unique properties and advantages over 'wet-lay' systems with the emphasis on the robustness of the warranty. Marketing will also emphasise the green credentials of Dryseal to assist in clients' carbon neutral aspirations.

Commenting on his appointment, Andy Fell said:
"As a former Dryseal contractor of 17 years, I am determined to help boost the market profile of Dryseal, improve our relationship with customers, contractors and specifiers alike and to improve the sales and performance of the range. We have a first class product here and I want everybody to know about it."

Chris Avery, Hambleside Danelaw's managing director, said:
"With over 30 years of installation and management experience, Andy's unique skills make him a very welcome addition to the team at Hambleside Danelaw and his long term commitment to the company will ensure that Dryseal continues to be the roofing system for the future." Index

John Newton - Newsletter - Deck Waterproofing Solutions
To view John Newton & Company's latest Newsletter for Structural Waterproofing and Damp Proofing, please click here

For further information or advice about any of John Newton & Company's products, contact 020 7237 1217 or visit www.newton-membranes.co.uk Index

Forticrete recognised by Prestigous Pride in the Job Awards
Forticrete, the UK's leading manufacturer of concrete construction products, has been recognised with an award for industry best practice by the NHBC (National House-Building Council) at this year's 'Pride in the Job' Awards.

The award was presented to Forticrete in recognition of its invaluable support and hard work in supplying materials of a high standard to 'The Crescent' development in Birmingham, for which site manager Rob Thorp from Barratt West Midlands received the 'Pride in the Job Quality Award winning Manager' award.

Barratt West Midlands specially selected Forticrete's semi-dry Cast Stone Cills to provide the decorative cast stone detailing for the new development in Shard End, and also specified Forticrete's DH2 Heads.

The development is part of a highly anticipated multi-million pound regeneration project, which heralds a new era for the area, providing a range of 1 & 2 bedroom apartments and 3/4 bedroom houses comprising of two and three storey designs.

John Lambert, general manager at Forticrete commented: "To be recognised so enthusiastically by such an esteemed awards scheme is a fantastic achievement and is testament to our excellent sales service, technical capabilities and design advice.

"We have a long standing association with Barratt Homes who specify our products for many of their flagship schemes across the UK, helping to create award-winning buildings - long may that continue."

Forticrete's Cast Stone Dressings are a perfect example of advanced technology and time honoured craftsmanship working together in perfect harmony. The result is a wide range of cast stone products manufactured using a semi-dry format of unrivalled quality, with no compromise to aesthetic appeal.

Forticrete Cast Stone Dressings are manufactured to BS 1217:2008 and conform to the United Kingdom Cast Stone Association's technical specification.

All Forticrete manufacturing facilities are BSI registered and operate to the requirements of BS EN ISO 9001:2008 and BS EN ISO 14001:2004 - the national and international standards for quality and environmental management systems - and have gained the rating of "very good" for BES 6001 for all seven of our factories demonstrating responsible sourcing.

www.forticrete.com Index

DWA Architects Specify Forticrete's Rustic Gemini for New Multi-Million Pound Care Home
Award winning EcoPlus Gemini roof tiles from Forticrete have been specified for a new multi-million pound, 105 bed care home in Kettering, to complement the 19th century architecture of a Grade ll Listed Victorian villa which lies on the grounds.

As project architects, DWA Architects required a roofing solution that would seamlessly blend with the handmade plain clay roof tiles on the 19th century dwelling. The rustic colour of Forticrete’s Gemini roof tile provided the answer they were looking for.

The Kettering care home is just one of three Avery Health Care homes constructed by DWA Architects that have utilised Forticrete's Gemini roof tiles, with a fourth currently under construction in Hatfield.

Dave Sedman, project architect for this care home at DWA Architects commented: "It is essential that when we specify products, we source solutions that are not only aesthetically pleasing, but are cost-effective and provide considerable ease of use.

"After specifying Forticrete's Gemini roof tiles for a number of new care homes in the past, we had no reservations that they would deliver on all these elements. In addition, the mix of different shades that Forticrete's Gemini roof tile is available in is remarkable.

"We specified the Rustic finish which allows the new care home to seamlessly blend with the Victorian design of Elm Bank House which sits on the same grounds– we couldn't be happier with the result!"

Forticrete's Gemini interlocking tiles have been specifically designed to replicate the look and feel of traditional plain tiles, maintaining the appearance of a traditional plain tile roof.

They have 50% less CO² emissions per m² roof and improved coverage, using less tiles per m² making it a much more cost effective solution. The roof tiling solution features increased tile strength and an even stronger, tighter interlock as standard and because they are so simple to install, the cost to lay them is also significantly reduced.

As well as being extremely energy efficient, these next generation roof tiles are aesthetically pleasing, easy-to-install and high in quality. They have been specifically designed as interlocking tiles which are just 270mm x 337mm overall, yet because of a carefully judged central groove and innovative 'double cambered' design, they have the appearance of two traditional plain tiles side by side when laid, effectively laying two tiles at a time.

All Forticrete roofing and stone manufacturing facilities are BSI registered and operate to the requirements of BS EN ISO 9001:2008 and BS EN ISO 14001:2004 - the national and international standards for quality and environmental management systems and has gained the rating of "excellent" for BES 6001 for 6 out of 7 factories demonstrating responsible sourcing, showing that all building materials are sustainable.

For more information on Forticrete's award winning EcoPlus Gemini twin interlocking tile, or on any of the Forticrete range of products, visit: www.forticrete.co.uk Index

John Newton - Deck Waterproofing, South Wales


Hengoed Care Home is situated in an elevated and exposed position overlooking Swansea bay. The Care Home Owners commissioned a large extension to the existing building which includes a balcony overlooking the bay and a small internal terrace courtyard area. Both were built above habitable basement accommodation. There was no requirement to waterproof the basement area due to the construction of a cut off wall; there was a requirement to waterproof the exposed balcony and terrace decks to prevent water ingress from above.

Newton Specialist Waterproofing Contractor Protectahome Ltd were commissioned to provide guaranteed waterproofing to the concrete surfaces of the decks prior to the main contractor laying the finished paving slabs totalling approximately 150m2.

Methodology

The main contractor laid the new concrete decks to the appropriate falls and prepared the surfaces to receive the John Newton Deck Waterproofing System. Protectahome then applied a coat of Newton 902 Primer to the exposed surfaces to prevent outgasing from the new concrete. Next they prepared the vertical/horizontal junctions and details with Newton Flexitape. The vertical surfaces of the concrete were then treated with Newton 203 Rubberflex-V before the main horizontal surfaces were treated with Newton 201 Rubberflex. Finally Protectahome covered the whole of the two deck areas with Newton 207 Deckdrain, which in turn was overlaid with bedded in patio slabs.

Result

Newton 201 RubberFlex is a 25 Year BBA Approved single part, cold applied liquid waterproofer which once cured provides a seamless completely waterproof polyurethane coating with amazing elastomeric qualities. The Newton 207 DeckDrain membrane with its double cuspated profile helps protect the primary waterproofing below, by allowing free water to depressurise and provides two layers for drainage. In combination this system will ensure that no water will pass through the building fabric of the decks ensuring that the internal areas stay dry and fit for habitable accommodation.

Benefits

- Ease of application using hand tools.

- Quick drying with the use of Newton accelerants

- 25 Year BBA certificated waterproofing

- Long-term insured guarantee from an established waterproofing specialist.

Read More: www.newton-membranes.co.uk/deck-waterproofing/

Further Information and Registered Installers

For a Registered Installer in your area experienced in waterproofing a deck, or any other aspect of waterproofing, please ring 020 7237 1217 or fill out our online Request Registered Installers Form Index

Hauraton / FastrackCAD drawings used at Silverstone
Around £35 million has been spent over the last two years at the Silverstone motor racing circuit in Northamptonshire. The focal point of the redevelopment is the 390 metre long pit and paddock start line complex that runs between the famous Club and Abbey corners - the complex is now known as the Silverstone Wing. The spectacular yet functional structure has 41 garages at ground level, above which are quiet, spectator galleries, media and conference centres, and a 100 seat auditorium.

Three Hauraton products were supplied for installation in and around the "Wing" complex. To provide the surface water drainage requirement RECYFIX® HICAP® and FASERFIX® KS channels were used with FASERFIX® SERVICE CHANNELS installed to facilitate on-site cable management.

To read the full Case Study go to www.hauraton.co.uk Index

John Newton - Protecting buildings, since 1848
How to Damp Proof a Listed Building

When dealing with Listed and historic buildings, it is fundamentally important to maintain the structural and aesthetic integrity of the building and be sympathetic to the structure in terms of the application of a damp proofing product. Many damp and waterproofing products on the market require exhaustive and damaging preparation techniques - which are likely to be unacceptable in sensitive conservation areas or for listed buildings.

In the majority of cases Newton membrane systems can be sympathetically applied with little or no preparation required and depending on the chosen wall finish, often only requiring the very minimum of strategically placed fixings to hold the membranes in place.
Once in place the membrane provides an impervious separation barrier between the damp surface and new internal wall. Therefore moisture and moisture vapour is prevented from affecting the internal finishes.

Newton damp proof membranes almost always conform to the requirements of the conservation authorities for use on historic buildings and have been used on many Grade 1, 2 and 2* listed buildings, including Windsor Castle and the Houses of Parliament.

Product Focus - Newton 805 Newlath

Newton 805 Newlath is a BBA Approved composite damp proofing membrane comprising of high density polypropylene membrane with a rot proof polythene mesh heat welded during the manufacturing process to the surface of one side. The meshed surface creates a mechanical key to allow the membrane to be plastered, rendered, or to receive dot and dab plasterboard.

With over two million metres of Newton 805 Newlath installed nationally, Newlath is a cost effective and permanent method of dealing with dampness.

Damp Proofing Project for the National Trust

Penrhyn Castle, an enormous 19th century castle in Snowdonia, North Wales is in neo-Norman style, and is one of the most admired of the numerous mock castles built in the UK in the 19th Century. An outbuilding - the former Castle brewery - was being converted into a cafe, and required a damp proofing solution which was in keeping with the National Trust requirements. Aesthetically, the undulating features of the walls were required to be maintained.

Newton 805 Newlath was applied to the damp walls then finished with a plastered universal one coat plaster which produced a strong, dry wall finish which met all the clients requirements.

Advantages of Using Newton 805 Newlath:

- New finishes are protected from penetrating damp
- Aesthetically the undulating nature of the walls was retained
- Newton 805 Newlath is sympathetic to the structure, conforming to the National Trust's strict requirements
- The treatment is reversible so the wall can be returned to its original state if required in the future

For further information or advice about any of John Newton & Company's products, contact 020 7237 1217 or visit www.newton-membranes.co.uk or email info@newton-membranes.co.uk Index

Technal Launches New Façade Products and Design Concepts at Batimat 2011
Architectural aluminium façade specialist, Technal, has launched a series of new curtain walling, window and door products at Batimat 2011 in Paris. It also presented some innovative new concepts which look to the future of façade design.

This year the Technal stand at the international construction exhibition was designed by the leading French architect, Nicolas Michelin and had a number of key themes:

- Accessibility in response to the EU’s commitment to supporting the ageing population

- Refurbishment and renovation, particularly to achieve energy efficiency improvements to existing buildings

- The ordinary versus the extraordinary - demonstrating how a building can successfully blend into its environment whilst also providing drama and an exceptional quality environment inside.

The stand had the appearance of a continental villa with a tree-filled patio and façades that had a series of opaque aluminium louvres and contrasting translucent bands of glazing, with a dark, midnight blue exterior.

A number of new Technal façade products were launched at Batimat this year, which will be available in the UK and Ireland in 2012. These include:

- The Soleal casement window range - available in tilt/turn, pivot, bottom and projecting top hung window options, and horizontal sliding and tilt/slide balcony door configurations. The range will set new standards in energy efficiency and aesthetics.

- An innovative motorised side hung open-in window will provide automated locking and unlocking using a touch screen control to replace the traditional handle for users with disabilities.

- The Soleal door range - a high performance thermally broken commercial door in pivot and hinged configurations, and a single door with a disabled access threshold.

- A concealed parallel opening vent option for Technal's MX curtain walling, giving specifiers the opportunity to radically increase natural ventilation as an alternative to tilt/turn and top hung vents.

As part of Technal's commitment to research and development, the stand also featured three innovative façade design concepts:

- A dual skin façade developed by Technal with Jacques Ferrier Architectures which 'folds' to help accommodate a building in its environment. The skin is 'pleated' vertically for east or west orientations and horizontally for southern aspects. The façade panels can be modular and units with photovoltaic cells can also act as a sunshade.

- An alternative façade concept blends the façade with the roof, forming a single envelope that can be added to an existing house to improve energy efficiency.

- A design for brise soleil sunshading which supports planting, adding vertical landscaping to an urban environment, and providing occupier comfort whilst maximising natural light.

www.technal.co.uk Index

Ancon Awarded Prestigious 'BuildingConfidence' Accreditation
ANCON has been awarded the construction industry's highest accolade for supplier excellence, the BuildingConfidence accreditation.

Assessed by leading supply chain specialist, Achilles, BuildingConfidence is fast becoming the industry's most trusted pre-qualification scheme. It enables construction buyers to identify suppliers which meet the standards required for their projects.

Ancon's accreditation was confirmed following a thorough and independent audit of its business operations. A skilled auditor from Achilles examined Ancon's health and safety procedures, quality management, environmental performance, employee development plans, CSR credentials, ethical policies and corporate governance.

Ancon's Managing Director, Stuart Maxwell, says: "We are delighted Achilles has recognised our high performance standards. The independent audit resulted in our accreditation without a single non-compliance issue. It means our customers will no longer have to carry out individual pre-qualification assessments of Ancon, saving valuable time and money in the procurement process. It will also provide additional peace of mind to new clients."

As an accredited company, Ancon is an approved supplier to all companies using the BuildingConfidence scheme, including Balfour Beatty, Shepherd Construction, Robert McAlpine, Lend Lease and Kier.

The award is the latest addition to Ancon's growing portfolio of internationally recognised accreditations. The company's UK operations have already achieved OHSAS 18001 certification for its health and safety systems, ISO 9001 for its quality management and ISO 14001 for its environmental management systems.

Annabelle Wilson, Ancon's Marketing Manager, says: "Accreditations which are recognised and valued by the Industry, like BuildingConfidence and the ISO portfolio, are important to Ancon. They offer clients an independent analysis of our business which helps to differentiate Ancon from other construction product manufacturers. The assessment process also provides Ancon with an opportunity to benchmark its operations against other suppliers, both inside and outside the Construction sector, to ensure we continue to deliver a world class service that goes far beyond the minimum entry level requirements."

For more information on Ancon, including its products, services and third party accreditations, please visit www.ancon.co.uk Index

Forticrete provides the answer for New Multi-Million Pound Regeneration of Spalding
Decorative Florentine® concrete facing blocks and Ashlar® masonry blocks from Forticrete, the UK's leading manufacturer of masonry products, have been specified by Feilden+Mawson Architects for use on a unique £6m multi-use regeneration project development in Lincolnshire.

The Red Lion Quarter, which located in the heart of Spalding, is to become a focal point for the area, celebrating the town’s role as a hub for the UK food industry. The development will host a range of business and leisure services showcasing local food and speciality small food production.

In order to revitalise the area, breathing new life into Spalding's central commercial district, Feilden+Mawson Architects required a cost-effective, yet aesthetically pleasing alternative to natural stone for the building's main elevation. Forticrete's Polished Florentine® Pewter Blocks and a mixture of both its Standard and Bespoke Cast Stone Ashlar® Blocks provided the ideal solution.

Philip Bodie, project architect at Feilden+Mawson commented: "As a focal point for the UK food industry, celebrating Spalding's history of quality food and food production, it was essential that this new development stood out from the crowd and reflected the significance of the area. As such, it was important that the solutions we sourced delivered not only on cost, but on performance, as well as demonstrating a considerable ease of use. Forticrete’s products ticked all the boxes."

Florentine® masonry blocks are exceptionally durable and available in 17 dramatic colours allowing the creation of bold matching walls or contrasting banding and patterned effects.

They are manufactured from a carefully controlled mixture of aggregates and cement in accordance with BS EN 771-3:2003 'Specification for masonry units' and meets the statutory requirements of the relevant sections of The Building Regulations 2000 and The Building Standards (Scotland) Regulations 1990 (amended 2001).

All Forticrete manufacturing facilities are BSI registered and operate to the requirements of BS EN ISO 9001:2008 and BS EN ISO 14001:2004 - the national and international standards for quality and environmental management systems and has gained the rating of "excellent" for BES 6001 for 6 out of 7 factories demonstrating responsible sourcing, showing that all building materials are sustainable.

For more information on either Forticrete's Florentine® or Ashlar® ranges or any of the Forticrete range of products, visit: www.forticrete.co.uk Index

Take a Virtual Tour of David Bailey's Education Furniture
David Bailey Furniture Systems has revealed the latest addition to its education furniture portfolio with an online virtual tour of fitted college furniture at West Thames College in West London.

The £128,650 installation of fitted college furniture included 600 metres of worktops, plus units and shelving in a harmonious contrast of vibrant and muted colours, transforming the college refurbishment. The project, worth an initial £117,984 with a further £4,674 allocated for the under-bench units and a further £5,995 for the coffee shop counter, was brought to David Bailey Furniture Systems directly by contractors Atlantic Contracts.

Ryan Hayes, Senior Buyer at Atlantic Contracts, said: "When sourcing products to complete a contract we look for quality goods, reliable service and, of course, value for money. If we get it wrong it is our reputation on the line. David Bailey Furniture Systems fit the bill on all fronts giving impeccable service and delivering on time when required, therefore enabling us to complete the contract in a timely manner, while providing a quality finish which we could all be proud of. It's good to know that David Bailey Furniture Systems provides furniture for other sectors too. We know who to approach next time."

Trevor Gillman, Managing Director of David Bailey Furniture Systems Limited, commented: "It is wonderful to be able to add West Thames College to our portfolio of education furniture projects. The unusual part of the college furniture installation contract was making the 'rise and fall' worktops and sinks in line with guidelines from the Developmental Disabilities Association (DDA). However, the versatility of our Education range of fitted furniture means that it is suitable for application in educational establishments of varying scales and requirements.

"As anyone who views the virtual tour on our website can testify, the end result looks great."

David Bailey Furnitire Systems' portfolio includes primary and secondary school refurbishments, college and university furniture installations and a growing number of specialist furniture projects, from schools with special educational needs to specialist colleges and universities.

For further information, contact David Bailey Furniture Systems on 01843 604896 or visit www.davidbaileyfurniture.co.uk or email sales@davidbaileyfurniture.co.uk Index

Procter Cast Stone - Cast Stone Products available from Stock
Cast stone stock list published online

Procter Cast Stone has published a list of the standard products that it holds in stock for immediate collection or delivery. This includes heads, cills, string course, quoins, coping and pier caps.

The stock products are high-quality items, yet they are competitively priced. Detailed drawings can also be downloaded.

For further information visit www.caststoneuk.co.uk/news

See cast stone at The Big Green Home Show

If you want to learn more about cast stone, experts from Procter Cast Stone will be at The Big Green Home Show, which takes place at the National Self Build & Renovation Centre, Swindon, from 28-30 October 2011. Pre-register online for FREE tickets.

The Self-Builder's Guide to Cast Stone

Procter Cast Stone has published a FREE guide to cast stone, written to meet the needs of people contemplating or embarking on self-build projects. The Self-Builder's Guide to Cast Stone explains what this exceptionally versatile construction material can be used for, how it is manufactured and how easy it is to work with.

For free tickets to The Big Green Home Show 2011, go to www.biggreenhomes.co.uk Alternatively, if you are unable to attend the show, contact Procter Cast Stone for more information and a copy of the free Guide by telephoning 0113 286 3329, email news@proctergarforth.co.uk or got to www.caststoneuk.co.uk Index

Technal announced as Corporate Partner to the Guggenheim Museum Foundation in Bilbao
Architectural aluminium façade specialist, Technal, has been announced as a corporate partner of the Guggenheim Museum Foundation in Bilbao.

This latest affiliation is part of Technal's commitment to creating strategic partnerships that reflect its passion for architecture, design, creativity and innovation.

Acclaimed as one of the most important buildings of its time, the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao was designed by Frank Gehry and is a magnificent example of ground-breaking architecture. It was described by Time Magazine as 'The Building of the Century'.

With more than 90 exhibitions showcasing contemporary art and over 10 million visitors to date, the Guggenheim in Bilbao is credited with changing the way the world thinks about museums, and it continues to challenge assumptions about the connections between art and architecture.

By supporting the Guggenheim in Bilbao via the corporate programme, Technal is demonstrating its commitment to culture and is helping this important, iconic museum meet its ambitious long-term goals.

Technal is one of Europe's market leaders in the design, manufacture and distribution of high performance aluminium glazing solutions, and is currently celebrating 50 years of innovation in façade design.

It offers an innovative range of façade products, including curtain walling, doors, windows and low rise glazing systems, and has a network of approved, trained fabricators and installers across the UK.

Technal is now active in more than 70 countries and has operations in China, India, the Middle East, Morocco, South America, and South East Asia as well as across Europe. Its UK headquarters is based in West Yorkshire and is supported by its southern distribution centre in Hampshire.

www.technal.co.uk Index

Forticrete's Hardrow Slates provides the ideal finish for David Wilson Homes
Highly durable Hardrow Slates from Forticrete, one of the UK's leading manufacturers of specialist roofing products, has been specified by David Wilson Homes to compliment the existing natural stone vernacular of its new development in Moorbrook Mills, Holmfirth.

As most of the buildings in the surrounding area of the development feature natural stone with stone slate roofs, the local planning authority had specific planning requirements that needed to be met to ensure that any materials specified would blend seamlessly with the existing properties at the site, as well as the surrounding environment.

After a number of alternative products failed to meet the requirements, Forticrete's Hardrow Slates in Twilight were handpicked by David Wilson Homes to provide both a cost effective and aesthetically pleasing solution.

Erica Bell of David Wilson Homes commented: "We considered a number of alternatives for use on this sensitive site, but Forticrete's Hardrow Slate stood out head and shoulders above the rest; it offers the same architectural properties as natural slate, with an aesthetically pleasing finish at a fraction of the cost, providing us with the ideal solution.

As well as being cheaper than natural slate, Hardrow is also available in a range of natural stone shades. This meant that we were able to carefully select the perfect weathered blend which would be best suited to compliment the developments' surrounding environment. The natural finish provided by the slate is remarkable."

Suitable for use in regions where a natural stone slate appearance is required, Forticrete's Hardrow roof slates are manufactured with a slight variation in dimensional tolerance, adding to the product's character when laid.

The range, which is extremely durable and mellows with age, can be laid in either random widths or diminishing courses for an authentic traditional appearance.

The slates are available in a variety of sizes, for both roofing and vertical cladding. The sizes range from 457mm x 305mm (min. pitch 25°), right up to the imposing 610mm x 457mm which can be laid confidently at pitches as low as 17.5°, creating a bold appearance. The colour of Hardrow Slates will change with natural weathering, but the integrity of the tile carries a 30-year guarantee from date of supply.

www.forticrete.com Index

Hambleside Danelaw - Slashes carbon footprint by 78%
A medium-sized British building products manufacturer has achieved a massive reduction in its carbon footprint over the last six years, but says that the rising cost of using renewable energy is likely to make further cuts very difficult.

An independent environmental audit by the Planet Positive Foundation has found that Hambleside Danelaw, which makes glass reinforced polyester (GRP) roofing products at two factories in Daventry and Inverness, recorded a footprint of 264 tCO2e in 2010 - 78% lower than the corresponding figure for 2005 and 70% lower than five years ago.

Hambleside Danelaw manufactures a range of rooflights, flashings and valleys from GRP as well as roof, wall and underfloor ventilation products. It has an annual production output of 2 million product units and when the footprint of 264 tCO2e is apportioned over this output, the company's embodied energy unit is just 0.132 kg per unit.

The new carbon footprint is at a level that is comparable to that of only 45 average UK households.

Hambleside Danelaw is naturally pleased that it has easily exceeded the 5% annual target for reducing emissions which qualifies it for the renewal of Planet Positive certification. However, the company warns that there are major challenges for manufacturers to overcome if they want to make more progress in cutting their footprint.

Cost of renewable energy is a major issue
The biggest challenge relates to the audit’s finding that the two factories' energy consumption accounts for over half of the total carbon emissions. The Inverness factory already uses 100% renewably sourced electricity and liquefied petroleum gas and Hambleside Danelaw is now exploring using more renewable energy at its Daventry facility.

Commenting on this, Ray Khan, the company's director of quality and environmental standards, said: "A major issue is that renewable energy now costs more than sourcing from non renewable suppliers. In fact there is a shortage of renewable energy in the UK with one reason being that the government's CRC Energy Efficiency Scheme for large energy users to reduce their carbon footprint has resulted in these companies buying up more and more renewable energy and thereby driving up the price for all of us. With manufacturers burdened by increasing costs on all areas of their business, we simply can’t afford to choose a more expensive source of energy supply in the current economic climate."

Travel emissions in taking waste to recycling plants
The second challenge for Hambleside Danelaw is that in Scotland, the company incurs travel emissions generated from waste transfer. The nearest recycling plant is 55km from Inverness. This contrasts with the situation in England where the Daventry factory is only 10km from its nearest recycling plant.

By recycling its waste, Hambleside Danelaw has been able to substantially reduce the amount of materials that it sends to landfill, reducing operating costs and enhancing products. Therefore it will retain its commitment to recycling on both sides of the border despite the waste transfer distance in Scotland.

Recycling GRP - the final frontier
Finding ways of reducing waste production (both recyclable and non-recyclable) remains the third major challenge, especially when the waste is mostly fibreglass which is very difficult to recycle.

Hambleside Danelaw has been recycling plastic waste for many years but GRP is a different material requiring a different solution. The company has made a substantial investment in developing plant and equipment to allow it to begin to get a material from waste GRP which is suitable for recycling. As a result the waste production material can now be reused within the industry and although development work is ongoing, good progress is being made.

This work now gives Hambleside the ability to recycle its GRP products, rooflights, cladding flashings and the Dryseal flat roofing system once they have come to the end of their service life, again reducing land fill waste and costs and considerably extending the life cycle of a fossil based material as it may now be re-used.

Chris Avery, managing director of Hambleside Danelaw Ltd, said: "Manufacturers are increasing the amount of recycled material used within their products and in many cases this is becoming paramount to their specification. By investing in recycling technology, Hambleside Danelaw is ensuring that demand for its products will continue to grow, benefiting both the company and its customers."

For more information, contact Hambleside Danelaw on 01327 701900 or visit www.hambleside-danelaw.co.uk Index

John Newton - Waterproofing an Exisiting Basement - A Quick Guide
newton-membranes.co.uk/news/basement-waterproofing/waterproofing-an-existing-basement/

When you are looking at waterproofing an existing basement you have a large variety of products available at your disposal. The real key is choosing the right product, the right preparation technique and for the right price to achieve the degree of waterproofing you need for your intended use of the basement.

So let's go through a quick guide for you to get the ball rolling. When waterproofing an existing basement, you are either going to:

1. Hold water back by applying a system to the basement such as cementitious slurry or similar or
2. Install a cavity drain system which will divert the water and get rid of it prior to damaging internal finishes.

Firstly what needs to be considered is - what are you using the space for? If it is a bike shed then you are not going to insulate it or go to a massive effort to rake out the mortar joints etc. The big cost will be the prep here and of course it will take a while for the render approach to dry. If you are happy with the risk of water ingress coming out on the floor then maybe go for a cavity drain membrane as a damp proof membrane and accept if water comes in you will deal with it then.

If it is going to be habitable accommodation it needs to be totally dry with no water or water vapour acceptable. You have two choices.

A. Waterproofing an Existing Basement - Barrier Option
This barrier will require preparation by a trained waterproofing expert. To make it 100% watertight means 100% workmanship which keep in mind is very difficult to achieve. In all circumstances with an internal barrier, for it to be effective you will need to do not only the walls but also the floors. Make sure you have a good existing slab here or even a new one to make it effective. Bricks on edge or flags on soil will not do for habitable accommodation they will need to be removed and can be re-instated later.

B. Waterproofing an Existing Basement - Cavity Drain Option
This would be the recommended solution. A drained cavity system is ideal. When waterproofing an existing basement with this system you will have a series of dimpled sheet membranes (usually 8mm in depth) which are mechanically fixed back to the building fabric using a waterproof MultiPlug (plug with a waterproof seal which acts like a rawl plug that you can fix into) then depending upon the finish required either a plain 8mm membrane with battens on plugs or a frame work tied back into the plugs or a meshed dimpled sheet which you can render onto. These systems act as water management system in your existing basement, moving any moisture or water behind the dimples and down to a internal drain which are installed at the wall floor junction. The drain can then either feed out to an open elevation or to an existing drain or a sump and pump.

Prior to using either system here's a quick guide to the pro's and cons of both.

Option A - Barrier
Disadvantages - Any applied system will need preparation to the substrate prior to application which can prove very disruptive and messy and a real problem in general. Depending upon the substrate you may have to rake out the mortar joints, sand blast, scabble, hack off to get back to the substrate and prepare it ready for the applied barrier.

Another disadvantage is that wet trades are introduced, as you are potentially making a wet project even more damp by introducing a wet solution. This introduces problems with the waterproof barrier in terms of drying times. Drying out times are one of the most frustrating elements of the barrier approach this can significantly impede a building programme especially when it comes to be able to decorate the finish project.

A final disadvantage here is the inability to fix things like shelving units into the barrier without puncturing the barrier. This will also invalidate any guarantee that was offered by a professional installer.

Advantages - The biggest advantage with the barrier is if placed perfectly it will negate the need for installing any form of sump system which saves on future maintenance costs.

Option B - The Internal Drained Cavity System
Advantages - The drained cavity has many advantages the main ones being:

- Minimal surface preparation required, if any
- Can be installed with no wet trades or drying out times if designed correctly
- Can be decorated quickly if an independent dry lining frame is used
- Does not push water to other areas of the project - as could happen with a barrier
- Can be used on all Listed Buildings as it is fully reversible - barriers are not

Disadvantages - The biggest disadvantage is that if you are below invert level you will need to use a pump which will mean ongoing maintenance.

So there you are some very important things to consider when choosing your basement waterproofing technique. The most important thing really is to make sure whatever system you use put into the budget to get a professional waterproofing contractor to undertake the works. Contact the manufacturer and check that they know the installer and can recommend them. This way you will have a course of action should the system be installed poorly.

Read more about Newton System 500 Cavity Drain Membrane Solution (link 'Newton System 500 Cavity Drain Membrane Solution' to newton-membranes.co.uk/basement-waterproofing/),and Watch Video.

Further Information and Registered Installer
For further advice about waterproofing an existing basement or for a list of Newton Specialist Basement Contractors (NSBC) in your area, please ring Newtons on 020 7237 1217 or e-mail info@newton-membranes.co.uk Index

John Newton - Structural Waterproofing and Damp Proofing Newsletter
New Build Basement Waterproofing

We regularly take enquiries about the best way to make new build below ground structures waterproof. In terms of strategy, the best way to proceed is to consider the recommendations made by BS8102:2009 Code of Practice for The Protection of Below Ground Structures from Water From The Ground, with particular regard to the following points:

- The type of types of construction and waterproofing i.e

Type A (Barrier) Protection
Type B (Structurally Integral) Protection
Type C (Drained) Protection
- Expect and design for a full head of hydrostatic pressure
- Include a Waterproofing Specialist - like a Newton Specialist Basement Contractor (NSBC) - as part of the design team so that an integrated waterproofing system is created.

Technical Drawings and Assistance

Newtons team of waterproofing experts can design and modify technical drawings in all formats and provide a waterproofing solution best suited to your needs.

Our website www.newton-membranes.co.uk hosts our technical drawings and NBS Plus product specification details. In addition, Newton CAD drawings are accessible via www.fastrackcad.com and these are formatted to be entered directly into your drawings.
Furthermore, Newtons can provide 3D details and product representations to assist in visualising the concept.

New Build Basement Edinburgh Case Study

This multi-level new build basement in Edinburgh is split onto two levels and was constructed out of reinforced concrete panels bearing off a structural raft. The nature of the build sees the property cut into a sloping site, making the back elevations of the project earth retaining down two stories.

The Newton Specialist Basement Contractor curtain hung Newton 508 Cavity Drain Membrane to the concrete panels, and Newton Basedrain was installed in a horseshoe formation so that any water entering the structure was diverted. The Basedrain conduit was installed with maintainable jetting points making the system fully maintainable - a mandatory design requirement in accordance with BS8102:2009. The Newton Specialist Basement Contractor was able to offer full design and installation guarantes for the work. Newton System 500 cavity drain waterproofing was installed with precision and speed and was not inhibited by adverse weather conditions as with external systems.

For further information or advice about any of John Newton & Company's products, contact 020 7237 1217 or visit www.newton-membranes.co.uk Index

FastrackCAD announces latest Ancon e-newsletter
New Helical Wall Tie for Timber-Framed Buildings

Ancon is pleased to announce the launch of a new helical wall tie for use in timber frame construction.

The TIM6 is a Type 6 wall tie suitable for fixing masonry cladding to timber frames up to four storeys in height. It is manufactured in four standard lengths to suit cavities from 50mm to 150mm. This tie is ideal for use where insulation is being incorporated within the cavity, as it accepts the Ancon universal insulation retaining clip.

Ancon Supplies England's Stunning Rugby World Cup Venue

Over 400 Ancon Tension Bars have been installed on the Forsyth Barr stadium in Dunedin, New Zealand, where England will play their first three matches in the 2011 Rugby World Cup.

The steel tension bars are installed in the roof and in the South and West stands of this brand new stadium, to brace the impressive overhead structural steelwork.

The Ancon system includes bars with a special, high strength, rolled thread which was designed and tested to meet the specific dynamic conditions in the stadium roof, caused by wind loads.

For further information on Ancon Building Products, visit www.ancon.co.uk Index

Forticrete Launches Essential Reading for the UK Construction Industry
Set to quickly become essential reading for architects and specifiers, 'Forticrete by Design', the new quarterly magazine from the UK's leading manufacturer of concrete construction products, offers up more inspirational ideas using concrete products than ever before.

The autumn issue of the new magazine, which focuses on creative and innovative applications of the use of colour in building design, features five in-depth reviews of projects from across the UK, each showcasing a very different but effective approach.

The magazine's regular feature, 'Building Buzz', is targeted to provide the latest in technical knowledge to help readers overcome complex design challenges by putting the expertise of Forticrete's design specialists at their disposal. The first issue takes a look at Bed Joint Reinforcement and where it should be used in masonry walls.

John Lambert, general manager at Forticrete, commented: "We are extremely excited about the launch of our new magazine, 'Forticrete by Design' and can't wait to see how it is received by the industry. We feel that as the UK's leading manufacturer of concrete construction products, when it comes to concrete design and technology there isn't anyone better placed to keep the industry up to date with the latest news and detailed reviews of some of the most inspirational projects across the country."

Also featured in this issue are details on Forticrete's revolutionary Retro Fit Stone Cills, news on the Responsible Sourcing Standard, and details of the Building Confidence Accreditation recently awarded to the company.

To receive a free subscription to 'Forticrete by Design', contact 01525 244912 or 01525 244911, or register online at www.forticrete.com Index

Renderplas - Switching from Steel to PVCu Beads works for Welsh Oak Frame
Renderplas PVCu render beads are contributing to the weather-tight external envelope of oak frame buildings by Welsh Oak Frame. Providing ultra strong straight edges and easy fixing, Bellcast Beads from the Renderplas PowerBead range are being used in conjunction with a weatherproof render finish to prevent rainwater penetrating the underlying substrate of Welsh Oak Frame's patented single wall system, comprising composite infill panels on an oak frame. Welsh Oak Frame's high specification system utilises modern materials to replicate a medieval method of construction that allows the attractive oak frame structure to be viewed from the inside as well as the outside of the building.

Having previously used stainless steel external render beads, Welsh Oak Frame now specifies Renderplas PVCu PowerBeads on a regular basis. Keith Rimmer, Projects and Planning Director at Welsh Oak Frame, says: "Because they are manufactured from PVCu, Renderplas products are much easier to staple to our infill panels than metal alternatives and have greater flexibility to match the contours of the wood frames. They also offer high resistance to weathering and come in a choice of colours to suit different project and planning requirements."

For further information contact Renderplas on 01299 888333 or visit www.renderplas.co.uk Index

Flush Glazing from Technal
A new hospital building which provides state-of-the-art patient facilities and a high quality healing environment features structural glazing from Technal to create a flush façade and flood the wards with natural light.

Designed by The Manser Practice, the scheme at Chesterfield Royal Hospital has a T-shaped plan which reinvents the traditional layout of wards to improve efficiency and patient dignity. Each ward has two clusters of patient rooms with windows created from Technal's MX SSG curtain walling to ensure a high level of natural light and further improve the patient experience.

Fabricated and installed by Dortech Architectural Systems, each 1.2m by 2.4m glazing unit was created using MX SSG structural glazing with a fixed pane and a concealed top hung vent above. The MX curtain walling system was also used for the full height glazing to two stairwells and for the nurse stations on each floor.

Commenting on the glazing solution for the project, Guy Barlow, a Director of The Manser Practice, said, "We wanted to create a flush façade for the building, with no visible aluminium frame. We have used Technal's systems on other projects and were confident that they could successfully realise our design for the glazing, cost effectively. The curtain walling also contributed to the speed of build we needed to meet the challenging programme. We are pleased with the finished building and the glazing is performing well."

The curtain walling was finished in anthracite grey, glazed with low E high performance solar control glass and contrasts with the ceramic granite cladding. Technal's CD pivot doors were also supplied for the entrances and exits.

The MX SSG structurally glazed curtain walling option meets architects' requirements for significantly less visible aluminium and flush glass façades. The system has a number of patented features for enhanced performance and to facilitate installation. It can accommodate 6mm, 28mm or 34mm structural glazing or 50mm composite insulated panels, and is available as a flat façade or faceted up to 3°.

For further information about Technal's portfolio of commercial aluminium window, door, curtain walling, and low rise façade systems, visit www.technal.co.uk or call 01924 232323 Index

John Newton - New Build Basement Waterproofing - Design Strategy
On a daily basis we field enquiries and queries about the best way to make a new build basement waterproof. The waterproofing method adopted for a new build basement is indeed a very prudent and essential consideration as failure to make the correct decision can have a major impact on the effectiveness of the system, the potential use of the basement, the risk of consequential loss and avoiding liability dispute.

Implications of BS8102 for New Build Basement Waterproofing

In terms of a strategy for waterproofing a new build basement or and existing basement we think the best way to view a project would be with consideration to recommendations made by the BS8102 : 2009 code of practice for 'The Protection Of Below Ground Structures From Water From The Ground' with the particular regard to:-

- The type of types of construction and waterproofing i.e.
=> Type A (Barrier) protection
=> Type B (Structurally Integral) protection
=> Type C (Drained) protection
- Expect and design to expect a full head of hydrostatic water pressure where comprehensive site investigation regarding the geology, hydrogeology and topography both current and historical in relation to the below ground structure are not possible or the results are inconclusive.
- A "Waterproofing Specialist" should be included as a part of the design team so that an integrated waterproofing solution is created. All design decisions made by others that might have an impact on the waterproofing design should be brought to the attention of the waterproofing specialist/designer or installing contractors. Final decisions and any recommendations should be approved by the specialist.

Consideration should be given to the use of combined protection (i.e. Type A and Type B, Type A and Type C or Type B and Type C) where in a single system: a) the likelihood of leaking is high. b) the consequences of leakage is unacceptable. c) additional vapour checks are necessary for a system where unacceptable water vapour transmission could otherwise occur.

Newtons Recommendations for New Build Basements

At John Newton and Co. we believe that where possible the best combined system for a new build basement would be a combination of Type B and Type C Newton cavity drain membrane. In basic terms design and build the structure as strong as possible to form the primary resistance against water ingress but expect that some leakage may occur and install a contingency plan in the form of a Newton Cavity Drain Membrane System. We would advise against external impermeable membranes as a waterproofing element on their own or as part of a combined system which does not include a Type C element for new build basements for the following reasons:

- The use of external impermeable membranes may also be considered but with the important caveat that it potentially conflicts with the performance of water- resisting concrete. It is important to note also that, apart from the significant cost of membrane systems, their success depends on the highest quality of workmanship. The quality of the concrete surface, especially with bonded membranes such as bitumen sheeting, is critical and is not easy to achieve' - IStructE document for 'Design and construction of deep basements'.
- The judgement in the overview of the High Court case 'Outwing vs.Weatherald' agrees that 'it is not reasonable or realistic to expect a bonded sheet membrane to be applied without any defects at all'. Therefore if you incorporate a system which needs to be 100% defect free to work in your design and it fails you may be accountable.
- 'Leaks caused by defects in external membranes are practically impossible to locate and repair, since the water invariably enters the structure internally through cracks or other vulnerable points, such as any movement joints, at some distance from the external defect'.- IStructE document for 'Design and construction of deep basements'.
- Because consideration should be given to the 'form and feasibility of remedial work' which means if there is a problem the ability to get back to the structure to diagnose and determine the cause and location and then rectify the problem. -BS8102 :2009
- Because consideration should be given to providing a 'maintainable' waterproofing system. - BS8102 :2009

There are of course other details in construction of a below ground structures like Podium Decks, Pile Caps, Intermediate floors etc which will require specific detailing with a combination of products and techniques all of which can be successfully dealt using products from the Newton range.

For further information about John Newton - New Build Basement Waterproofing, visit www.newton-membranes.co.uk/news/basement-waterproofing/new-build-basement-waterproofing/ Index

Ancon Launches a new helical wall tie for timber-framed buildings
Ancon is pleased to announce the launch of a new helical wall tie for use in timber frame construction.

The TIM6 is a Type 6 wall tie suitable for fixing masonry cladding to timber frames up to four storeys in height. It is manufactured in four standard lengths to suit cavities from 50mm to 150mm. This tie is ideal for use where insulation is being incorporated within the cavity, as it accepts the Ancon universal insulation retaining clip.

The TIM6 forms part of the Staifix-Thor Helical range of hammer-driven fixings supplied by Ancon; a range which also includes stainless steel batten fixings for insulated roofs.

The helix of these Ancon fixings has a precise pitch that cuts a consistent path as it is driven in to timber; each rotation interlocks perfectly down its length to guarantee maximum performance. This helix design is patented and therefore unique to the Thor Helical range.

The TIM6 can be hammered through insulation without compressing the material and, although the tie creates a thermal bridge across an insulated cavity, its small cross-sectional area means heat transfer is negligible.

Annabelle Wilson, Ancon's Marketing Manager says,

" Ancon continues to expand its wall tie range to meet changes in building techniques and to ensure our clients can meet their thermal and acoustic performance aspirations."

In addition to the TIM6 tie, Ancon also manufactures two other wall ties for use with timber frames. The Staifix STF6 is manufactured in three lengths to suit non-insulated cavities of 50mm, 75mm and 100mm, and the Ancon TFMT Timber Frame Movement Tie is a Type 7 tie to accommodate differential movement with the outer leaf of up to 65mm.

For more information on the new TIM6 or Ancon's other products for timber frames, please contact Ancon on 0114 275 5224, email info@ancon.co.uk or visit www.ancon.co.uk Index

Ancon supplies England's stunning Rugby World Cup venue
Over 400 Tension Bars from Ancon Building Products have been installed on the Forsyth Barr stadium in Dunedin, New Zealand, where England will play their first three matches in the 2011 Rugby World Cup.

The steel tension bars are installed in the roof and in the South and West stands of this brand new stadium, to brace the impressive overhead structural steelwork.

It is the first sports stadium, anywhere in the world, to feature a permanent roof over a natural turf playing surface.

The Ancon system includes bars with a special, high strength, rolled thread which was designed and tested to meet the specific dynamic conditions in the stadium roof, caused by wind loads.

The dimensions of the project are immense. The stadium is almost 50 metres high, equivalent to the height of a 12 storey building. The iconic roof is formed from five arched steel trusses, each with a span of 105 metres, and the main steel truss in the South Stand is 130 metres long. The largest Ancon bars were 42mm in diameter and 15 metres in length.

Ancon Tension Systems comprise a range of components that can be used to create a variety of assemblies, from simple tie bars to complex bracing systems involving several bars joined at one point. Unlike standard tie bars that require turnbuckles, adjustment to the system length is accommodated within the fork connector at each of the bar. Locking nuts firmly lock the bars to the forks and ensure the connection is secure.

The project, known as Otago Stadium during the construction phase, was started in June 2009 and completed in August 2011. The roof canopy is transparent and is angled towards the north to optimise light in the winter months. The venue will host four matches in the 2011 Rugby World Cup.

Ancon designs and manufactures a wide range of construction products and has supplied numerous international sporting venues including the City of Manchester Stadium, Benfica’s Estadio da Luz and the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

For more information on Ancon Tension Systems or the company’s international project portfolio call 0114 275 5224, email info@ancon.co.uk or visit www.ancon.co.uk Index

Lonsdale - Do You or Your Clients need a Low-Cost Glazed Canopy?
Since 1946, literally thousands of canopies have been installed throughout the UK featuring Lonsdale safe & durable overhead glazing systems.

- Supply only to contractors or installed nationwide through our registered dealer network

- Fast & easy installation reducing expensive labour time

- Strong laminated glass or 'unbreakable' polycarbonate for maximum safety

- Tough, long lasting polyester powder coated finish in any standard BS or RAL colour

- Short or long spans custom built & designed to suit the building

- A 10 year guarantee backed by £10m product liability insurance

Full technical information, including robust & reliable typical installation details, are available in .pdf format or .dwg format from www.fastrackcad.co.uk

Better still, take advantage of our FREE DESIGN & SPECIFICATION service - CALL US NOW ON 020 8801 4221 for helpful, friendly & professional advice, or NBS subscribers can take advantage of the spec writing tool on our website.

www.lonsdalemetal.co.uk Index

Ancon launches a New Eurocode-compliant design program
Punching shear calculations can now be carried out to Eurocode 2 and BS8110 using the latest version of Ancon's free design software, available to download from www.ancon.co.uk

The Ancon Shearfix design program calculates radial and orthogonal layouts of the shear stud rails required to reinforce concrete slabs at column heads. In addition to providing designs to EC2, the program has a variety of new features. It allows effective shear load and design shear loads to be directly inputted, and has been enhanced with a PDF print option and detailed DXF files which include layers. It also allows the user to take account of openings in the slab. Once details of voids are inputted, the software applies the necessary perimeter reductions and automatically updates the design.

For your copy of the Ancon design program please visit www.ancon.co.uk or call 0114 275 5224 or email info@ancon.co.uk Index

Kee Safety - Separating People from Hazard
Welcome to the Kee Safety newsletter. We are a leading global supplier of fall protection equipment such as roof edge guardrail, roof walkway, horizontal life lines and portable man anchor systems as well as Kee Klamp tubular fitting and BeamClamp steelwork fixings. Established in the UK in 1934, the range has expanded from the original Kee Klamp products into a portfolio of safety equipment, all designed to separate people from hazards. CAD drawings available from FastrackCAD.

For more information contact, Kee Safety on 0118 931 1022 or visit www.keesafety.com

Kee Safety Limited 1 Boulton Road, Reading, RG2 0NH
Tel: 0118 931 1022 Fax:0118 931 1146 Index

Procter Cast Stone drawing downloads from FastrackCAD
Procter Cast stone & Concrete Products has made CAD drawings for its standard cast stone products available to download from the FastrackCAD website. This means it is easier, quicker and more cost-effective for architects to utilise standard and customised cast stone units from a leading member of the UK Cast Stone Association (UKCSA). With around 40,000 registered users, hundreds of whom download thousands of drawing files every week, FastrackCAD is described as Europe's leading provider of architectural CAD drawing databases.

Procter's comprehensive and competitively priced range of standard cast stone units gives architects and specifiers an exceptionally broad choice of options for projects ranging from residential to commercial, schools and religious buildings. Moreover, the drawings for standard units can be used as the starting point for customised cast stone products. If required, Procter Cast stone & Concrete Products can also work with architects to create entirely bespoke designs in either standard or custom colours.

Standard products for which CAD files are available to download include balustrading, bullseyes, canopy, chamfered and plain quoins, cills, columns, copings, corbels, gable vents, heads, keystones, name and date stones, pier caps, porticos, spheres and finials, string courses and label mould, and window surrounds.

Because Procter's approach to cast stone gives architects greater scope for turning their ideas into reality, the drawings are ideal for making available via FastrackCAD. Architects can download and use the CAD files as they are, or modify the drawings to show the required dimensions if non-standard units are necessary. In addition, architects can create multiple alternative schemes that can be presented to a client with the minimum of effort. On the other hand, architects restricting themselves to standard designs can retain a tight control over costs. Either way, architects downloading drawings from FASTRACKCAD save considerable time.

Drawings for the standard cast stone units can be downloaded from FastrackCAD at www.fastrackcad.com (select Procter Cast Stone from the list of companies) or they can be requested on a CD-Rom. In addition, literature can be downloaded or requested via Procter Cast stone & Concrete Products for more information by telephoning 0113 286 3329 or emailing news@proctergarforth.co.uk

As well as the drawings for cast stone units being available on FastrackCAD, CAD files can also be downloaded for products from other Procter companies, namely Procter Sliding Gates and Procter Fencing Systems. In all cases the drawings are additionally available via the IHS Specify-it and The Construction Centre websites. Index

NHS recommends David Bailey for sexual health clinic refurbishment
David Bailey Furniture Systems added Mortimer Market Sexual Health Clinic earlier this year to its portfolio of healthcare furniture projects. Specialist fitted furniture from the leading manufacturer's Healthline range was specified for two of the five floors at the sexual health clinic in Tottenham Court Road.

The enquiry came from Camden PCT NHS Trust when David Bailey was recommended to them by the NHS, who was very impressed with the service provided during a previous contract with David Bailey.

Included in the large supply and fit refurbishment - which revamped 30 rooms in total - was the replacement of consultation desks, worktops, special standing work units, clinical and nurses stations, fixed wall storage, computer-housing and mobile filing units.

The management team who overlooked the health clinic refurbishment were delighted with the service provided by David Bailey and praised Managing Director, Trevor Gillman, for his commitment to the project. David Bailey's team of craftsmen and fitters completed the furniture installation quickly within a tight turnaround - at one point the clinic staff didn't think the project would be achievable.

The refurbishment has made a big difference to the health centre's staff and nurses, and has brightened up the clinic for the patients, many who are regulars. Patient comments have concluded that the fitted furniture has given the health centre a new lease of life and opened up the clinic, which was previously full of small tight spaces.

www.davidbaileyfurniture.co.uk Index

Hambleside Danelaw - Break the cycle of metal roof thefts by replacing with GRP
The growing number of church and school closures and costly repairs due to metal theft from roofs can be avoided if GRP roofing materials are installed as an alternative to lead or copper, says British roofing products manufacturer Hambleside Danelaw Ltd.

Across the country, local media are reporting major thefts on a daily basis and often these relate to multiple occurrences of theft from the same building. Recent examples include a church in Suffolk that has been raided 14 times and repeated thefts from a church in Dorset resulted in a repair bill of £20,000 after thieves made off with 100 sq. ft. of lead.

Theft like this can be incredibly costly, not only in replacing the stolen lead or copper, but also because of the potential for water damage to what are potentially priceless contents.

According to building professionals, the problem has now become 'an epidemic' and the issue has been raised in the House of Commons. The Ecclesiastical Insurance Group estimates that since 2007 its bill for 7,000 metal theft claims from churches has reached almost £23m. The insurer says that lead and copper roof coverings, roof flashings, copper lightning conductors and lead rainwater pipes have all been targeted.

In the case of churches, guidelines emphasise the need to install security measures, such as alarm systems, and require like-for-like replacement of materials due to heritage considerations. Hambleside Danelaw believes that the huge cost of recurring thefts means that a fresh look at the issue is now required.

The company points to media reports which show churches limited to making an insurance claim only once a year or to a maximum claims level of £5,000, when the repair bill can reach many thousands of pounds, forcing churches to launch appeals to parishioners. In one Berkshire case, the church is now to be demolished following copper thefts from the roof, spiralling repair costs to an unachievable sum.

GRP can look identical to lead
Hambleside Danelaw says that there is a ready alternative to lead in the form of Glass Reinforced Polyester (GRP or glass fibre) roofing materials, ranging from single-ply coverings to flashings which can appear identical to the original lead or copper installations.

The company's Dryseal roofing system can achieve complex detailing and a similar finish to lead or copper - ideal for the heritage market - but without incurring the cost and importantly not attracting the risk of repetitive theft. Dryseal can offer a 'temporary' solution of up to 20 years to break the theft cycle and provide a period to generate the funds needed to reinstate lead where like-for-like replacement ultimately remains the first preference.

Dryseal is suitable for most flat and pitched roofs and it has been available as a proven solution for new build and refurbishment projects for over 20 years. The system totally encapsulates the roof with a single material. Its easy 'Fit and Finish' installation means that it requires no heat or flames, again a very important point for heritage buildings.

Because this GRP system is not a wet-lay product, costs are saved by a considerable reduction in the on-site lamination work required. Where the condition of the substrate allows, Dryseal can be installed over an existing roof surface, which reduces removal, landfill and installation costs.

Dryseal and Hambleside Danelaw's other GRP roofing products have been installed in schools, churches and hundreds of other buildings across the UK. They are also increasingly featured on prestigious heritage projects such as Durlston Castle, part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site in Dorset.

Durability reduces maintenance costs
Dryseal is guaranteed to remain leak free for 20 years and is BBA approved. Contractors vouch for its durability even in the more challenging weather patterns in the north of Scotland with many saying that little or no maintenance is required other than an annual check.

Chris Avery, Hambleside Danelaw's managing director, said: "Those responsible for non-heritage buildings like schools should certainly be looking at GRP roofing materials as a metal replacement if they don't want to be crippled again and again by costly repair bills or by large hikes in insurance premiums. We feel strongly as well that the scale of the metal theft epidemic means that the heritage and church bodies should be giving more serious consideration to GRP as an alternative or 'temporary' solution, especially when that alternative can look identical to the original installation."

Why Dryseal makes an excellent alternative to lead roof coverings
Hambleside Danelaw has enhanced its Dryseal GRP roofing system range to include:
- A new RibTec ribbed membrane now available alongside a standard flat membrane; the RibTec membrane provides a slight textured effect of the surface ribbing, providing an aesthetically attractive and more uniform roof finish.
- A natural choice for green roof applications as it is root resistant
- Membrane and trim components are manufactured in the UK
- 20 year material and 10 year installation guarantees supported by an independent insurance backed warranty scheme
- No Building Regulation restrictions on Dryseal's use on most flat or pitched roof surfaces

The Dryseal roofing system is available through a network of independent, authorised contractors. Information can be obtained directly from Hambleside Danelaw. Potential new contractors who provide quality, good workmanship are encouraged to contact Vince Cranmer, Hambleside divisional director of sales, on 07710 573017 or vince.cranmer@hambleside-danelaw.co.uk Index

Ancon Building Products - Changing Wall Tie Regulations and New Products
Ancon's Wall Ties and Restraint Fixings brochure has been updated to reflect changes in Industry Regulations and recent additions to the company's product range.

Luke Woollen, Design Services Manager at Ancon, explains the building code changes,

"Cavity wall ties should now be selected from the Types in PD 6697. This is a new Published Document for use with the masonry Eurocode EC6 and latest wind code EC1. It replaces the British Standard BS 5628 which was the previous masonry code and is now withdrawn. Full information is given in our updated literature on how to select the most appropriate wall tie for your project, using the latest design code."

Ancon constantly reviews its product offering in line with market requirements and has recently extended its wall tie range.

The Staifix HRT4 275mm is a Housing Wall Tie for cavities from 126mm to 150mm. Unlike other 275mm ties, it complies with the stringent acoustic performance requirements of Part E of the Building Requirements for use in both internal and external cavity walls. Ancon is the only manufacturer to offer a Type A wall tie for internal separating walls with cavities of 50, 75, 100, 125 and 150mm.

The Staifix-Thor Helical TIM6 is a new hammer-in timber frame wall tie available in four lengths to suit cavities from 50mm to 150mm. This product accepts an Ancon insulation retaining clip and is therefore ideal for use where insulation is incorporated both in between the timber studs and in the cavity.

When describing the company literature, Annabelle Wilson, Ancon's Marketing Manager, Says

"The Wall Tie brochure is our most requested literature. Over 2000 copies are downloaded from our website each month, in addition to the hard copies we distribute. It is updated regularly to take account of range extensions and regulatory changes."

"Our literature is designed not only to provide all the necessary information to allow product selection, but also as a good reference document for anyone involved in masonry construction."

"Subscribers to our mailing list are the first to receive new product alerts".

To request a copy of this literature or to join our free E-news mailing list, call Ancon on +44 (0)14 275 5224, email info@ancon.co.uk or visit www.ancon.co.uk Index

John Newton - Newton 902 Primer Achieves Third Party Gas Permeability Accreditation - UKAS Accredited Gas Barrier Certification For Newton 902
John Newton and Company are pleased to announce that Newton 902 Primer has been awarded a certificate confirming its suitability as a hydrocarbon gas barrier. The indepentent UK laboratory testing has proven the effectiveness of our 902 single component primer to be an effective gas barrier dealing with methane, radon and all other hydrocarbon gases.

With gas impermeability at more then seven times the Council Directive of 1999, Specifiers and Newton Specialist Basement Contractors can be confident that two coats totalling 1kgm2 of Newton 902 provides a membrane with incredibility low permeability for all hydrocarbon molecules, radon and methane gases and water vapour.

"Newton 902 Primer is a cost effective and versatile product which will allow contractors to supply a solution to deal with gas and moisture vapour problems in above ground situations with confidence."

- Warren Muschialli, Managing Director, John Newton & Company

About Newton 902 Primer

Newton 902 is a single component high performance elastomeric liquid rubber membrane specifically designed for providing a radon, gas and vapour barrier to vertical and horizontal surfaces. It is a water based compound, formulated on a styrene-butadiene copolymer.

Newton 902 Primer can be used as a stand-alone radon, gas and vapour barrier, or as a primer for use with Newton System 200 Deck and Roofing membranes or Newton System 700 Floor Coating, when Radon, gas and vapour control is required.

Typical Applications

- Can be applied by airless spray, roller or brush to walls, floors or soffits

- Radon, Gas & Vapour barrier to concrete, masonry and brick substrates

- Radon, Gas & Vapour primer for other liquid coatings such as Newton System 200 and Newton System 700 high performance floor coatings

- Vertical waterproofing membrane when used with Newton System 400 vertical drainage systems

- Car parks

You can download the report here: www.newton-membranes.co.uk/news/press-releases/newton-902-primer-achieves-third-party-gas-permeability-accreditation/ Index

David Bailey Furniture Systems to aid wounded troops in Afghanistan
David Bailey Furniture Systems' reputation for competitively priced, high quality fitted hospital furniture has won them a contract to send furniture to Afghanistan to assist wounded troops.

Still in the early stages of construction, the 8 metre x 1 metre nurses station will be installed into a 40-bed hospital ward at Camp Bastian, part of a large military hospital in Southern Afghanistan that treats soldiers injured on the battlefield. The nurses station is part of the new extension of the UK Ministry of Defence's (MOD) medical treatment facility at Camp Bastian.

David Bailey was chosen by G3 Systems Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of IAP Worldwide Services, Inc. that designs, delivers, operates and maintains equipment and facilities on a global basis, after they were recommended for the job by subcontract designer Such, Salinger and Peters.

G3 Systems' Business Development Manger, Paul Holt, said: "We designed, delivered and built the original UK military hospital at Camp Bastian and recently won a contract to extend its facilities. This work has focused on developing and supporting primary healthcare and pathology lab facilities. David Bailey was chosen to provide specific items of fitted hospital furniture as they offered the best combination of quality and price."

Trevor Gillman, Managing Director of David Bailey Furniture Systems, said: "This overseas furniture installation project is very important to us, as the hospital furniture we're supplying is really going to make a difference to the quality of care provided to wounded soldiers in Afghanistan."

The Camp Bastian medical treatment facility extension and upgrade of its Primary Healthcare Facilities is one of a series of construction contracts G3 Systems has secured recently which build on its presence in Afghanistan where it now supports UK, NATO and US operations. Index

GEC Anderson - Important News, Information, Project Review & Technical Updates
Welcome to STEEL TALK!

STEEL TALK contains News, Information, Technical Updates and Project Reviews, from GEC Anderson. We hope you like it and that you find it valuable and interesting. If you have any view points, suggestions or request, we'd love to hear them! Please email us: news@gecanderson.co.uk

Centred around our range of Stainless Steel Sinks, Worktops, Cabinets, Shelving & Sanitaryware, STEEL TALK is aimed at providing useful insights and, hopefully, inspiration by spotlighting projects, product details, interesting news and other updates.

Since GEC Anderson was founded (in 1962), its products have been specified in a great variety of environments and applications, ranging from one-off domestic kitchens to large commercial and public projects in sectors that include Health, Commerce, Transport, Arts, Education, Utilities, Defence and Security.

Because GEC Anderson specialise in custom made solutions, a wealth of experience has been accumulated along the way and we hope to share this with our readers in the forthcoming issues.

GEC Anerson Limited Oakengrove, Shire Lane, Hastoe, Tring, Hertfordshire HP23 6LY Tel 01442 82 6999 Fax 01442 82 5999 info@gecanderson.co.uk www.gecanderson.co.uk Index

Hambleside Danelaw - Oil Refinery explosion fails to destroy ' indestructible' Hambleside rooflights
The original installation of Hambleside Danelaw GRP insulated rooflights on a warehouse badly damaged in the 2005 Buncefield oil refinery disaster not only survived the explosion intact but has been retained on the refurbished building.

The explosion impact on the then newly-built 37,000m² distribution centre was severe, damaging the roof and walls and destroying the steel coumns and the rafters acting as the supporting structure. The extensive refurbishment required partial demolition and a major re-cladding by CA Group, but CA found that most of the Hambleside rooflights were in a more than satisfactory condition for using again within the CA Twin-Therm® system.

The Buncefield distribution centre incorporates Hambleside's Contour GRP rooflights whose translucent GRP sheeting is designed to admit controlled natural daylight into industrial, recreational, agricultural, commercial and other buildings.

Available in numerous profile formats, Contour is easy to fix and suitable for use in most climatic conditions with a guaranteed service life of 25 years. The sheets are easily handled and transportable.

Contour GRP top sheets and liner panels are fully tested to comply with HSE fragility guidelines when installed in a tested roof system. For fire performance, the sheets are available in grades SAB 3, SAA 1 and SAA 0 with the latter two testing as Class 1 CA Group had been working on the Buncefield warehouse construction project before the disaster and was commissioned again for the rebuild after the site changed ownership in 2009.

Martin Lowther, CA Group's operations director said: "CA Group regularly selects Hambleside Danelaw rooflights for both major new build and refurbishment projects and the Buncefield project illustrates perfectly why the Hambleside combination of enhanced light transmission, energy savings, fire protection and non-fragility makes our choice excellent value for money."

For more information, contact Hambleside Danelaw on 01327 701900 or visit www.hambleside-danelaw.co.uk Index

Delta Membranes Systems - Below Ground Potential
Basement areas are not usually associated as being new-build work in existing properties, but - as Delta Membrane Systems states - many home owners have found that they can create valuable extra space by going below ground level.

While basements are more usually associated with being the forgotten part of an older property, newer housing rarely benefits from this extra space. Yet, it is possible to dig down and create valuable extra space suitable for a range of applications.

Traditional damp proof membranes trap moisture and hold up work while the relative humidity of the concrete takes time to drop. Delta-FM allows work to continue immediately after placement thanks to a special low stud profile. Specifically designed for flooring applications, Delta-FM protects against dampness and contamination.

A complete product line-up is offered by Delta, including the MS-500 'Original' cavity drainage membrane for use on walls and floors and vaults as a waterproofing system.

This 0.6mm thick membrane features studs measuring 8mm deep. Made from high density polyethylene in a clear finish, MS-500 gives a compressive strength of greater than 250kN/m², and is able to drain some 135 litres/min. of water per metre run.

Alongside this, Delta offers MS-20 which is a brown dimpled drainage sheet with high drainage capacity and substantial compressive strength. Compared with the previous design, this new MS-20 has a 30% improvement in compressive strength - now more than 150kN/m², and is able to drain some 600 litres/min. of water per metre run.

Any water that builds up from the cavity drainage membrane can be cleared by the Delta Sump+Pump collection. These systems are offered with a collection of accessories including high level alarms, battery back-up and non-return valves.

The range of products available from Delta Membrane Systems brings the possibility of added space to be created in a house - space that can be used for a variety of functions including 'Granny annex', gymnasium, games room, cinema or simply somewhere to 'chill out'.

www.deltamembranes.com Index

FastrackCAD Client, David Bailey Furniture Stars in ITV Medical Drama
David Bailey Furniture Systems was selected by ITV and Mammoth Screen to supply fitted hospital furniture for the new ITV medical drama, Monroe.

The six episode series, aired in March and April, focuses on Monroe, a neurosurgeon played by James Nesbitt, and the patients he comes into contact with. The programme's hospital set, called 'St Matthews Hospital', is closely modelled on Leeds General Infirmary and it was imperative that real hospital furniture was used in the drama for authenticity.

ITV and Mammoth Screen first contacted David Bailey Furniture Systems through the company's website by requesting a brochure. The production company was so impressed by the hospital furniture, in particular the nurse stations and hospital reception desks, that they asked if David Bailey would be willing to donate some items for the project.

The old derelict Grammar School in Leeds was converted for the set of ITV's Monroe. The library became the hospital ward, the hall is now ITU, the canteen is the lobby and corridors, and the gymnasium is the hospital theatre. It took nine weeks to convert the school before shooting began. Fifteen carpenters, ten painters, and various laser cutters, artists and electricians were involved in preparing the building to achieve the desired result.

David Bailey had previously supplied panelling for Shepperton Studios and donated a nurse station to Royal Marsden Hospital in Fulham, but the Monroe project was a much larger hospital installation, including manufacturing furniture for ITU, the hospital wards and operating theatre areas. The Managing Director of David Bailey, Trevor Gillman, worked closely with Mammoth Screen to guide them on the furniture they would need, which included nurse stations, a 'U' shaped desk, worktops, and storage units.

From receiving the complete details and drawings from Mammoth Screen, David Bailey had less than three weeks to manufacture and deliver the furniture to the studios in Leeds. The items were transported by David Bailey ready assembled and installed onsite by Mammoth Screen's carpenters. To further add to the authenticity of the hospital set, the new fitted furniture was painted with scuff marks by Mammoth Screen's art department. Every single item of hospital furniture produced by David Bailey was used on the set of Monroe.

Mammoth Screen was delighted with the hospital furniture supplied by David Bailey.
Anna Higginson, Production Designer, said: "By producing high quality units to my own specification, David Bailey Furniture Systems has enabled me to complete the authenticity I hoped to achieve for the hospital sets on Monroe. The craftmanship is impeccable, and the vast variety of colour and texture has meant that I was able to use the units to compose the colour palette of the sets in detail. I am hugely grateful to them for being able to produce the amount of furniture I needed in such a tight time scale, in order to be ready for the filming deadline."

Trevor Gillman, who project-managed the furniture design and production, said: "We are thrilled to have worked with Mammoth Screen for the ITV production. I enjoyed seeing our furniture in-situ on a site visit to the Monroe set, and a number of my colleagues followed the series to see our furniture on screen".

For further information about David Bailey Furniture Systems' Healthline range of fitted hospital furniture, call us on 01843 604896 or visit our website www.davidbaileyfurniture.co.uk

CAD Drawings of the Healthline range are available for Download from www.fastrackcad.co.uk Index

John Newton - Damp Proofing vs Waterproofing - What's the Best Solution?
We are often asked to explain the difference between waterproofing and damp proofing and why one would be better than the other. The best way to explain which one is the best in any given situation is to explain what the difference is between them.

There are some long and pretty exhaustive definitions of waterproofing and damp proofing available for you, however it is probably most easily explained by saying that you should firstly consider if your property/structure, whether it be new or old or still in the design board, has earth bearing against it which is higher than the internal floor level. If it has then your decision about damp proofing or waterproofing should be relatively easy because you should consider that the earth is a conduit or route for water to be delivered against the structure with the potential consequence of water ingress as a result.

Implications of BS8102 Waterproofing Regulations

In this situation whether the ground is higher by 10cm or 10m we are governed by BS8102:2009 (Code of Practice for The Protection of Structures Against Water from the Ground) to waterproof this particular elevation. However if you can remove, dig or design the earth away from the building to a level which is below the internal floor level then you have effectively removed the risk of pressurised water ingress and therefore you have created a damp proofing situation and therefore a damp proofing solution can be applied to the affected areas.

Newton Systems for Damp Proofing and Waterproofing

So to summarise - if the external ground levels are higher than the internal floor levels a waterproofing system that can potentially deal with running water is required. In this instance we would generally recommend our Newton System 500 - Basement Waterproofing www.newton-membranes.co.uk/basement-waterproofing which collects and manages water away from the structure. If the external ground levels are lower or can be reduced to be lower than internal levels then if dampness is diagnosed a damp proofing solution to deal with capillary held moisture only can be applied to the walls and floors. For this our Newton System 800 - Damp Proofing www.newton-membranes.co.uk/damp-proofing membranes are ideal.

With the above in mind a word of warning, it is common for people to question why they should have a full waterproofing system if they only have marginally high ground levels and/or there is no running water present at the time. Whilst we understand their reticence we are governed by the British Code of Practice which also says that as well as natural ground water we must consider fluctuating water tables, the future effects of climate change, temporary pockets of water and perched water tables and burst water mains as potential sources of water ingress.

The likely result of installing a damp proofing system where it should have been waterproofing because the ground levels are marginal or there is no running water can be serious water ingress or flooding and the consequential loss to the building owner or user can be devastating.

So in answer to the headline question, which is best damp proofing or waterproofing? The answer is that it is totally dependent on your individual situation but as a general rule of thumb if your building/structure is completely above ground, the likelihood is that damp proofing will be best for you and if your building/structure is in any way below the ground it is likely that the best option will be waterproofing for that elevation at least.

We are always delighted to advise on any waterproofing or damp proofing projects, just call us on 020 7237 1217 end_of_the_skype_highlighting and we will put you straight through to one of our experts.

John Newton & Company, leading independent supplier of damp proofing membranes, structural waterproofing systems, water control and drainage products.

www.newton-membranes.co.uk Index

Hambleside Danelaw - Follow NHBC advice and switch to dry systems for pitched roofs
Hambleside Danelaw, the UK market leader for GRP mortarless flashing products, is urging builders to follow a new NHBC recommendation that they should seriously consider opting for dry systems on pitched roofs to reduce their risk of incurring remedial works due to mortar failure.

The NHBC has just reported that 60% of claims handled in 2010 related to pitch roofs and half of these claims were due to mortar issues. The Council's latest Technical Extra guidelines ask, "When was the last time you considered the latest dry systems available?"

Availability is easily found within one of the most comprehensive 'dry roof' ranges offered by a British manufacturer. The range includes Dry Fix valley troughs, ridge and hip systems, soakers, verges and bonding gutters. Some of these Danelaw products are listed in the WRAP procurement guide because they contain up to 50% recyclable content.

Scotland leads the way
The NHBC says that almost all of its insured sites in Scotland are now being built with dry systems for ridges, verges and hips. Claims figures appear to support this move to dry systems, with Scotland experiencing a smaller proportion of pitched roof claims per property covered.

Since the start of 2011, Project Managers for three local authorities in Scotland and the Glasgow Housing Association have specified Hambleside Danelaw's Dry Fix Bonding Gutters and HD TV15 Tile Vents.

Dry verges reduce claims
Verges are also reported by the NHBC to be a common feature of pitched roof claims and can require complicated and expensive scaffold access to facilitate repairs. Hambleside Danelaw supplies GRP Dry Verges in an attractive slate grey colour for batten and sark boards or face fixing which are suitable for all natural and man-made slates.

Chris Avery, Hambleside Danelaw's managing director, comments: "Repairs directly undertaken by builders add to the £11m bill which the NHBC faces for pitch roof claims, so it really makes sense for specifiers and contractors to look at the Dry Fix option. And if you choose Hambleside Danelaw, you are buying products designed and made in Britain."

For more information, contact Hambleside Danelaw on 07710 305182 or visit www.hambleside-danelaw.co.uk Index

Renderplas Top Of The ECO Tree
In a recent independent environmental profile report Renderplas PVCu beads achieved the top eco rating available to beading products on the UK construction market. In the report - carried out by Mtech Consult using Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) guidelines published by the BRE - Renderplas products, for rendering, plastering and drylining applications, received an "excellent" Ecopoint rating of just 0.004 per kg installed.

Environment Benefit of Recycled PVCu

The report concluded that the remarkable Ecopoint score is largely achieved because 98% of the PVCu used to make Renderplas beads comes from recycled material.

The environmental impact of using a typical PVC extrusion with no recycled material, compared to a Renderplas Bead is six times worse, based on Ecopoint score simulations carried out in the study. And the gap in the Ecopoint values, compared with galvanised or stainless steel beads, would be even greater again given a number of factors, including the energy required to recycle steel which demands heats of between 1200°C and 1900°C to be reached, the process of galvanization or secondary process to turn it into stainless steel, and the high energy required to cold work the steel into strips; and all of that has to happen before the products are actually manufactured.

According to Managing Director of Renderplas, Daniel Leedham-Green, the results prove the environmental case for PVCu beads over steel. "This endorses what we've always claimed," he says, "that our products offer the best environmental credentials in their market." And when it comes to sustainability he says that it is important for the industry to recognise the difference between a Renderplas bead and PVCu beads in general. "We keep our use of virgin material to an absolute minimum. Our white trade range, for example, is entirely constructed from recycled PVCu. Right across the board our products are made from 98% recycled material, all offcuts are recycled, and all of the PVCu we use is recyclable when buildings are deconstructed. With such impressive green credentials, Renderplas can make a significant contribution to the environmental performance of finished walls, without compromising their construction. Indeed, our ultra strong, ultra light Powerbead is proven to outperform stainless steel in every way."

Calculating Ecopoints

There are 12 environmental categories studied by the LCA that affect the entire lifecycle of a product, from creation of the raw materials to the actual forming of the finished product.

By assessing categories such as: effect on climate change, human toxicity, acid deposition and fossil fuel extraction and depletion, the BRE has created an internationally recognised system of scoring products that can be easily understood and is used in the publishing of The Green Guide. The results, called Ecopoints, are expressed per kilogram of finished product. They provide straightforward guidance to anyone involved in any building project on how to make the best environmental choices when selecting construction materials.

Clear and consistent real world measurements

Daniel Leedham-Green says meeting green obligations and getting to grips with terms such as embodied energy and environmental impacts can be confusing for the industry. He welcomes the Ecopoint system and its provision of a consistent and common sense approach to measuring a product's sustainability. He explains, "The Ecopoint system gives us a true means by which products can be measured against each other and the industry recognises this, as can be seen from the number of architects, specifiers and project managers already referring to them." He goes on to say, "The measurement goes further than just the making of the products too, the initial calculation is further qualified by whether a product is ex-works, fitted and finished, or delivered to site - the latter in our case - and therefore goes further than anything before in delivering real life scenarios to a product's environmental impact."

Contributing to sustainability in the external envelope

Although the BRE's Green Guide to Specification (Fourth Edition) does not directly cover render or rendering accessories, such as beading, on exterior and interior walls, MTech Consult's report concludes that given their excellent environmental profile, Renderplas products could reach an A or A+ rating in a comparative scale that would include the results of its competitors. The rating scale consists of six equal bands, A+ to E and its boundaries are set by the best and worst performing products in a group of comparable alternatives. "Renderplas PVCu beads are an exceptionally green solution, therefore, and as such enable specifiers to take the sustainability and performance of the external envelope to an even higher level," says Daniel Leedham-Green.

Summing up, Daniel Leedham-Green says that he is delighted with the results of the LCA as it substantiates the Renderplas eco strategy and inspires its commitment to continuing to find new ways to reduce environmental impact. He concludes, "This has been a very valuable exercise for Renderplas; it has independently verified that the Renderplas beads installed in the built environment contain 98% recycled material. It has also shown us how we might be able to raise our environmental image even further, for example, by exploring renewable energy sources and the uses of biofuels by our own transport solutions. Most importantly it signals the need for the industry to differentiate between virgin and recycled materials in construction and lifts the stigma on PVCu, highlighting recycled PVCu as a genuine option."

www.renderplas.co.uk Index

John Newton - The Complete Waterproofing Solution From Newtons
After two years of extensive product development and testing, Newtons are proud to launch our new range of structural waterproofing products. Features include: Newton 201 RubberFlex www.newton-membranes.co.uk/services/services.aspx?serviceType=10&id=136&catID=10 for waterproofing roofs, balconies and decks and Newton 101F www.newton-membranes.co.uk/services/services.aspx?serviceType=9&id=131&catID=10 for waterproofing concrete and masonry.

New Product Catalogue Available

Our New Product Catalogue, available here: www.newton-membranes.co.uk/structural-waterproofing includes highlights of all our waterproofing systems.
To request a hard copy of this, please email Newtons at info@newton-membranes.co.uk

With over 160 years servicing the construction industry, Newton Systems can now be specified to deal with all aspects of structural waterproofing in both new build and refurbishment construction on a domestic scale. Newton and their NSBC (Newton Specialist Basement Contractor) network can provide full design and installation guarantees throughout the United Kingdom for waterproofing of:

- New Build and Domestic Basements
- Bridges / Walkways
- Tunnels and Vaulted areas
- Car Parks
- Podium Decks
- Terraces / Balconies / Roofs areas
- Swimming Pools, Reservoirs and Pond
- Lift Pits
- Flat Soffits
- Water tanks and bunded areas

For free technical advice on any structural waterproofing, damp proofing or pumping requirements please call our Head Office 0207 237 1217 or visit our website for technical data and case studies at www.newton-membranes.co.uk Index

Technal Supplies 1,500 Windows for the New Pinderfields Hospital
Architectural aluminium glazing specialist, Technal, in partnership with fabricators Quest Solutions, has supplied around 1,500 windows for the new £250m Pinderfields Hospital in Wakefield - the UK's fastest-built large acute inpatient hospital.

The 88,000sqm hospital is part of a £311m PFI project for Mid Yorkshire NHS Trust, developed by Consort Healthcare - a joint venture between Balfour Beatty and Haden Young. It was designed by lead architects BDP.

The scheme was built in two phases to a challenging, fast track 190-week programme, and is now almost fully operational with final handover scheduled for Autumn 2011.

Pivot window systems from Technal's FXi46 range were specified for ease of cleaning on the upper floors, and fixed lights and top hung windows from the FXi65 suite were installed to the other areas.

The glazing specification for the opening lights had to meet the building's ventilation and access strategies and was in full compliance with Secured by Design criteria, using advanced locking and restrictors to the ground floor and other accessible areas.

The specification for the windows is high quality, low maintenance aluminium system. Technal's Fxi suite met all the design criteria for factors such as durability, security, energy efficiency, frame type and ease of use for patients and staff - and the systems are performing well.

Technal's Fxi window suite uses a technically advanced framing system with unobtrusive narrow sight lines. It is available in three module sizes - 46mm, 52mm and 65mm, giving architects and contractors the flexibility to deliver enhanced thermal efficiency and to meet project-specific requirements such as aesthetics, performance, and cost.

Features include the option of single or dual colours, a common range of profiles and accessories to simplify specification, and flush EPDM gaskets to enhance the appearance of the window. The suite can be supplied in a full range of configurations, including fixed lights, tilt/turn, top, side and bottom hung, and pivot windows are available for the FXi46 option.

The project met NHS targets for natural light, ventilation and thermal efficiency; building materials from the original hospital were used as hard core for the new car parks and infrastructure; and sustainable urban drainage makes no demands on the exisiting drainage systems.

For further information about Technal's portfolio of commercial aluminium window, door, curtain walling, and low rise façade systems, visit www.technal.co.uk or call 01924 232323 Index

Delta Membrane Systems - No Downtime with Delta-FM
While traditional damp proof membranes trap moisture and hold up work while the relative humidity of the concrete falls, Delta-FM is a BBA accredited product from Delta Membrane Systems that allows work to continue immediately after placement.

This is thanks to the low stud profile which allows the membrane to isolate damp and contamination from the slab underneath - even if it is an old installation with no previous dpm, or a new pour which is still 'green'.

Specifically designed for flooring applications, Delta-FM features a 3mm stud that allows the membrane to control the dampness, and eliminates the risk of contamination leeching from the concrete slab. Once laid, the membrane can be worked on immediately.

A further benefit of the slim profiles is that Delta-FM minimises changes in floor level - particularly important in refurbishment work where maintaining the previous floor level is crucial.

Supplied in rolls measuring 20m x 2m for speedy application, each roll features a 65mm flat tab on one side to overlap and seal sheets with DELTA-Tape.

Other features include good chemical resistance, the prevention of root penetration, rot resistance, and the ability to operate in extreme tempertures - from - 30°C to +80°C. This high upper limit makes it ideally suitable for use with underfloor heating systems.

Various floor finishes can be applied over the sheet including t&g timber floor boards or chipboard sheets (directly onto the membrane or on joists), as well as 50mm screed, Ardex A35 fast-drying screed, poured concrete, laminate floors or stone slabs.

All of these can be upgraded with thermal or sound insulation.

Delta-FM is one of a wide range of membranes from Delta to offer solutions in damp-proofing in refurbishment and new-build projects.

www.deltamembranes.com Index

John Newton - Announcing Newton 108 Stopaq The Unique Sealant For Structural Waterproofing
John Newton & Company is proud to offer Newton 108 Stopaq, a unique swelling sealant compound which provides a waterproofing solution for the notoriously difficult service pipe penetrations which can eventuate in below ground waterproofing applications. This tried and tested technique is extensively utilised within marine engineering and sealing of oil pipes.

108 Stopaq Product Features Include:

- Requires minimal surface preparation
- Adheres on wet and dry surfaces
- Fast and easy to apply
- Has no shelf life and does not become hard
- Can resist up to 0.3 bar of pressure
- Water and gas impermeable
- Non toxic and environmentally friendly
- Long term protection with no ageing of the product

Key Benefits of 108 Stopaq:

- Rapid water stopping - no curing time needed
- Single component
- Does not demand special tools for application
- Adjusts to movements in pipes and cables
- No fumes, no chemical reactions
- Works under hydrostatic pressures
- Sealant remains flexible and the material can be reused so no product wastage

Typical Applications Include

- Wall inlets below ground water level
- Sealing of running water leaks
- Wall penetrations inside of buildings
- Sealing of multi pipe and cable inlets

Watch The Video

This video, at www.newton-membranes-news.com/basement-waterproofing/stopaq/ demonstrates how incredibly quickly 108 Stopaq can be applied and can hold back hydrostatic pressure. Index

Lonsdale Metal Company - New Drawings Aluminium & Timber Roof Glazing
Have you ever been confused how to construct valley gutters, hips, ridges, gable ends or other awkward details?

Then you need our NEW Design Guide packed with simple, robust, details to ensure a weather-tight, leak-free and trouble-free glass roof.

Our ALM100/WF aluminium glazing bars are designed to sit on top of timber rafters and provide a weather-tight and maintenance free glazing method to safely retain the glass even in the most adverse weather conditions.

Please click link below for fast download of our FREE .pdf Design Guide: www.lonsdalemetal.co.uk/pdfs/glazing-bar-guide.pdf

OR .dwg files suitable for AutoCad here: www.fastrackcad.com/CAD.ASP?Company_id=103

For further information about our full range of products, visit www.lonsdalemetal.co.uk Index

Procter Cast Stone - Procters Exhibit at the National Self Build & Renovation Show
We are exhibiting at the National Self Build & Renovation Show on 25th to 27th February. Its a great opportunity for architects, developers, self builders, or home improvers to learn more about cast stone, and how this versatile material delivers maximum impact for minimum effort and cost.

Come and discuss any current or future projects, as we will be more than happy to Help.

Free Entry via online registration www.procterbros.co.uk/newsletters/link.php?M=60603&N=193&L=260&F=H Index

John Newton and Co. are very pleased to announce the addition of our 906 Mould Stop to our range of damp proofing products
Condensation is a major problem in homes and buildings across the country especially this time of the year and the black spot mould that is indicative of most condensation problems is persistent, unsightly and can be damaging to both decorative finishes and the occupants health. At Newtons we field calls and enquires daily regarding problems with condensation. We always offer best advice on how to deal with a condensation problem however we know that even when guidence and best advice on how to remove the cause of the condensation has been followed the dreaded mould can return. This is because it can manifest itself in the wall finishes and even after cleaning with something like a strong domestic bleach it can re-germinate! But now if good practice is followed there is no reason that a condensation issue can not be put to bed with the added peace of mind that the troublesome mould will be eradicated permanently with Newton 906 Mould Stop.

For further information or advice about any of John Newton & Company's products, visit www.newton-membranes.co.uk, ring 020 7237 1217 or email info@newton-membranes.co.uk Index

Technal Glazing Systems
Façade systems from architectural aluminium glazing specialist, Technal, have helped the University of Leeds to set a new benchmark for student accommodation in the city.

More than 3,000sqm of Technal's glazing systems for the new Charles Morris Hall were fabricated and installed by Dortech Architectural in a £1m contract and fast-track programme for design and build contractors Morgan Sindall.

Designed by concept architects Sheppard Robson and delivered by DLA Architecture, the £21m student hall of residence comprises two half-hexagon buildings sited around a central landscaped courtyard, providing 457 hotel-style study bedrooms.

The floor-to-ceiling glazed units, which maximise natural light, were constructed from Technal's MX grid curtain walling inset with FXi65 top hung casement windows. Dortech fabricated and installed the bays in more than 30 different sizes to create a less regimented appearance for the building envelope.

The glazing had to provide good thermal performance to contribute to the scheme's BREEAM 'very good' rating, slim sight lines, and be sufficiently robust to achieve the required spans and sharp corners that project beyond the structural supports.

Technal's FXi65 casement window system features curved profiles and delivers superior thermal efficiency using a 19mm flush polyamide thermal break and innovative gasket detailing to meet or exceed the revised Building Regulations.

The 65mm module allows more economical glass specifications to be used, whilst still achieving the targeted U-value. The FXi65 system will also accommodate 17mm up to 48mm glazing units for wider choice to provide additional thermal or acoustic performance. Configuration options include fixed light, top, side and bottom hung, tilt/turn and tilt/slide.

MX curtain walling is fully compatible with the FXi window suite, and can be used to create a wide variety of architectural compositions from a single grid systems - low to high rise façades, horizontal or vertical emphasis, and ribbon, structural, faceted, beaded and sloped glazing.

MX Acoustic for additional noise protection and MX62 for larger glass sizes are the latest additions to the extensive range of MX curtain walling options.

For further information about Technal's aluminium façade products, call 01924 232323, email info@technal.co.uk or visit www.technal.co.uk Index

Hambleside Danelaw - New CDP Seminars for 2011: Learn the best about roofing techniques
Leading GRP roofing products manufacturer Hambleside Danelaw Ltd is touring the country again in 2011 with a suite of CPD seminars designed to enhance knowledge of roofing and roofing techniques which maximise environmental performance and significantly reduce a building's energy costs.

The company is participating in both the CPD RoadSeminar Tour and the RIBA CPD events. Architects, specifiers and building professionals will be able to update their knowledge on topics such as:

1. Environmental Performance of GRP
2. GRP Roofing Systems and How They Differ
3. Flat Roofing - Designing to Avoid Common Problems
4. Flashings/Troughs: Lead v Plastic v Concrete v GRP
5. Roof Ventilation - Practical Solutions

The contents of the hour-long seminars are RIBA approved and seminars will be presented by highly experinced members of Hambleside's own management team who are behind the company's long track record of sustainability award winning success.

In addition, new seminars are to be introduced in spring 2011; 'Green Roof Applications' and 'Rooflights in the 21st Century'. The second will explain how new ideas and functions for rooflights are being introduced to the industry, bringing with them major cost-savings and environmental benefits.

Chris Avery, Managing Director of hambleside Danelaw, says: "Specifying GRP roofing products and maximising the advantages of natural lighting can have a very positive impact on a client's energy bills, important in an environment of ever escalating energy costs. Seminar attendees will learn how GRP is durable, safe and easy to install, environmentally efficient and sustainable at the same time as making a building look good."

Further details on CPD events can be found on the websites of the Constrution CPD Certificate Service at: www.cpduk.co.uk and RIBA at: www.architecture.com/EducationAndCareers/CPD/CPDfromtheRIBA/RIBACPDRoadshows.aspx

More information on the content of each Hambleside Danelaw presentation will be made available at: www.hambleside-danelaw.co.uk Index

Hambleside Danelaw - Young British Roofers Win World Championship with Hambleside's roofing products
Britain has stormed to victory at the IFD World Championship for Young Roofers' 2010 in Belfast by installing Hambleside Danelaw's roofing and ventilation products on the competition rig.

Unlike Rooney and co, the British team beat off the Germans to win the pitched roof gold medal in a fierce contest which attracted 24 two-man teams from 12 countries.

Gold medallists, Martin McAllister and Matthew Timby, used Hambleside Danelaw's lightweight polyethylene dry soaker for plain clay and concrete tiles and rigid underlay support trays - all manufactured by the British company.

Hambleside Danelaw dry soakers are quick and simple to install. Made from lightweight high density polyethylene they are available for both tile and slate roofs in right and left handed versions. They offer thermal stability and resistance to UV light, acid rain and cracking under temperature change.

The rigid underlay support trays are ideally suited for eaves refurbishment, but can also be used on new build. The rigid PVC unit provides an immediate and cost effective solution to situations where damage to the roof underlay or felt has occurred.

The ease of installation of both products helped to facilitate the accurate build quality that the judges were looking for at the world championships.

These Hambleside Danelaw products form part of a complete dry fix solution of roofing products from the sustainability award-winning manufacture. The range includes Dry Fix Valley Troughs and Bonding Gutters which are BBA approved.

Specifiers will note that many of the company's roofing and ventilation products are included in the Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP) Procurement Guide for construction materials. This means:

- using less raw material
- avoiding and reducing waste
- re-using materials
- recovering wastes by recycling into new applications

Using WRAP approved products therefore has a beneficial impact on the environment.

Chris Avery, Hambleside Danelaw's Vice Chairman, said: "As a British manufacturer, Hambleside Danelaw is delighted that a young generation of skilled construction workers are being trained in this country to match the highest standards in the world. The Young Roofers' World Championships and Roofing Industry Showcase is the ideal forum to show the innovation and sustainability of our roofing products and it is great that they have helped to win a gold medal for Britain."

www.hambleside-danelaw.co.uk Index

Procter Caststone New Architects' Guide to Fencing
First Choice Solutions for Architects, Specifiers and Contractors

Procter Fencing Systems is publishing a guide that explains the differences between alternative types of fencing, how to balance security with aesthetics, and other factors to consider.

The guide explains the different options for fencing, together with other issues that need to be considered at the same time as fencing, such as gates, barriers and complementary security measures.

For further information about Procter Caststone, New Architects' Guide, visit www.procterbros.co.uk/newsletters/link.php?M=60603&N=179&L=95&F=H Index

Procter Fencing Systems New Architects' Guide to Fencing
First Choice Solutions for Architects, Specifiers and Contractors

Procter Fencing Systems is publishing a guide that explains the differences between alternative types of fencing, how to balance security with aesthetics, and other factors to consider.

The guide explains the different options for fencing, together with other issues that need to be considered at the same time as fencing, such as gates, barriers and complementary security measures.

For further information about Procter Fencing Systems New Architects' Guide, visit www.procterbros.co.uk/newsletters/link.php?M=113216&N=177&L=95&F=H Index

David Bailey Furniture Systems - New Child-Safe Hinge For School Furniture
David Bailey Furniture Systems has introduced a new hinge to its Education range of fitted furniture for schools, colleges and universities to prevent accidents involving children trapping their fingers in cupboard doors.

The new nickel-plated metal hinge has a 155° opening angle and spring closing mechanism. The wide-angle hinge has a flat cap to prevent children getting their fingers trapped and also offers greater access to cupboards and other storage units.

According to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (ROSPA), every year 30,000 children trap and crush their fingers in doors. Some of these accidents will be serious and require surgery, other injuries will be as commonplace as cuts and bruises.

The most common finger trapping incidents happen in the hinge side of doors, where gaps provide an easy resting place for small fingers. To prevent these accidents from occurring it is essential for schools to use the correct fittings and fixtures to maintain a safe teaching environment.

For further information about the new hinge, call David Bailey on 01843 604896 or visit www.davidbaileyfurniture.co.uk Index