Re-defining garage door installations with bespoke designs since 1968

Re-defining garage door installations with bespoke designs since 1968

Rundum Meir is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year! 1968 – 2018

Rundum Meir design and produce a range of bespoke garage doors, perfect for residential and commercial properties of distinction. With unprecedented design options, their garage doors are completely bespoke and can be made to suit most openings.

Door options include the side sliding Rundum Original, side sliding sectional, overhead sectional and one off one piece up and over garage doors for specialist projects. All doors are hand-made, built using the finest materials including a variety of hand selected timbers, aluminium in any RAL colour or other specialised finishes, alloys and can include glass exteriors.

Bespoke garage doors for Specialist Projects

Combining stunning aesthetic properties fused with German engineering, Rundum Meir’s range of luxury garage doors complement many architectural styles, ranging from heritage Grade II listed buildings right through to modern, contemporary curved exteriors as well as interior solutions.

With many years’ experience Rundum Meir’s team work in consultation with architects, designers and clients to integrate Rundum Meir garage doors into various project requirements. Whether it is a new build or renovation project, their dedicated team works closely with architects, specifiers and other design professionals to integrate their hand-made garage doors seamlessly into project requirements.

Specific Specialist Projects which feature Rundum Meir’s garage doors have included garage doors on award winning projects in Cambridge called Accordia and Abode, as well as numerous one off residential projects such as Downley House. The Accordia and Abode housing development is a collection of houses and apartments blending urban living with aspirational spaces that won the RIBA Stirling Prize. The lead is usually taken by architects’ design requirements and ideas which Rundum Meir try and realise.

Downley House is an extraordinary residential development nestled deep within rural Hampshire. Combining modern designs with period-like influences, it features a striking concave solid oak sliding garage door. The oak blends seamless with the surrounding stone and wooden materials that feature on the building. Despite the weight of the solid oak door curtain specialised door automation allows the door to open reliably and safely throughout the changing seasons.

Specific Specialist Projects which feature Rundum Meir’s garage doors have included garage doors on award winning projects in Cambridge called Accordia and Abode, as well as numerous one off residential projects such as Downley House. The Accordia and Abode housing development is a collection of houses and apartments blending urban living with aspirational spaces that won the RIBA Stirling Prize. The lead is usually taken by architects’ design requirements and ideas which Rundum Meir try and realise.

Downley House is an extraordinary residential development nestled deep within rural Hampshire. Combining modern designs with period-like influences, it features a striking concave solid oak sliding garage door. The oak blends seamless with the surrounding stone and wooden materials that feature on the building. Despite the weight of the solid oak door curtain specialised door automation allows the door to open reliably and safely throughout the changing seasons.

Other Specialist Projects include a 4 side sliding garage doors that follows the perimeter of a circular garage, as well as alloy / copper garage door.

Rundum Meir garage doors are installed to conform to all relevant safety standards giving architects, developers and end users confidence.

For further information on Rundum Meir bespoke garage doors please contact them on Tel: 0151 280 6626, or email info@rundum.co.uk or visit them online: www.rundum.co.uk

 

The post Re-defining garage door installations with bespoke designs since 1968 appeared first on Specifier Review - Architecture - Design - Innovation

Kirsty Hammond

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Re-defining garage door installations with bespoke designs since 1968

Re-defining garage door installations with bespoke designs since 1968

Rundum Meir is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year! 1968 – 2018

Rundum Meir design and produce a range of bespoke garage doors, perfect for residential and commercial properties of distinction. With unprecedented design options, their garage doors are completely bespoke and can be made to suit most openings.

Door options include the side sliding Rundum Original, side sliding sectional, overhead sectional and one off one piece up and over garage doors for specialist projects. All doors are hand-made, built using the finest materials including a variety of hand selected timbers, aluminium in any RAL colour or other specialised finishes, alloys and can include glass exteriors.

Bespoke garage doors for Specialist Projects

Combining stunning aesthetic properties fused with German engineering, Rundum Meir’s range of luxury garage doors complement many architectural styles, ranging from heritage Grade II listed buildings right through to modern, contemporary curved exteriors as well as interior solutions.

With many years’ experience Rundum Meir’s team work in consultation with architects, designers and clients to integrate Rundum Meir garage doors into various project requirements. Whether it is a new build or renovation project, their dedicated team works closely with architects, specifiers and other design professionals to integrate their hand-made garage doors seamlessly into project requirements.

Specific Specialist Projects which feature Rundum Meir’s garage doors have included garage doors on award winning projects in Cambridge called Accordia and Abode, as well as numerous one off residential projects such as Downley House. The Accordia and Abode housing development is a collection of houses and apartments blending urban living with aspirational spaces that won the RIBA Stirling Prize. The lead is usually taken by architects’ design requirements and ideas which Rundum Meir try and realise.

Downley House is an extraordinary residential development nestled deep within rural Hampshire. Combining modern designs with period-like influences, it features a striking concave solid oak sliding garage door. The oak blends seamless with the surrounding stone and wooden materials that feature on the building. Despite the weight of the solid oak door curtain specialised door automation allows the door to open reliably and safely throughout the changing seasons.

Specific Specialist Projects which feature Rundum Meir’s garage doors have included garage doors on award winning projects in Cambridge called Accordia and Abode, as well as numerous one off residential projects such as Downley House. The Accordia and Abode housing development is a collection of houses and apartments blending urban living with aspirational spaces that won the RIBA Stirling Prize. The lead is usually taken by architects’ design requirements and ideas which Rundum Meir try and realise.

Downley House is an extraordinary residential development nestled deep within rural Hampshire. Combining modern designs with period-like influences, it features a striking concave solid oak sliding garage door. The oak blends seamless with the surrounding stone and wooden materials that feature on the building. Despite the weight of the solid oak door curtain specialised door automation allows the door to open reliably and safely throughout the changing seasons.

Other Specialist Projects include a 4 side sliding garage doors that follows the perimeter of a circular garage, as well as alloy / copper garage door.

Rundum Meir garage doors are installed to conform to all relevant safety standards giving architects, developers and end users confidence.

For further information on Rundum Meir bespoke garage doors please contact them on Tel: 0151 280 6626, or email info@rundum.co.uk or visit them online: www.rundum.co.uk

 

The post Re-defining garage door installations with bespoke designs since 1968 appeared first on Specifier Review - Architecture - Design - Innovation

Kirsty Hammond

source https://specifierreview.com/2018/06/29/bespoke-garage-doors/

RT @Bigfootsystems: Big Foot Systems Provides Flexible Support to a West Yorkshire Shopping Centre #Roofing #ShoppingCentre #FM https://t.co/bEoviscuJR https://t.co/Ae9vOv5U0t

Big Foot Systems Provides Flexible Support to a West Yorkshire Shopping Centre #Roofing #HVAC #ShoppingCentre #FM https://t.co/bEoviscuJR pic.twitter.com/Ae9vOv5U0t

— Big Foot Systems (@Bigfootsystems) June 28, 2018

Source: @KirHammond June 29, 2018 at 02:46PM
More info Your Website/Page Anchor Text Here

#R32refrigerant - A revolution in R32 #airconditioning systems use up to 20% less #refrigerant than #R410A equivalents. R32 boasts impressive #ecocredentials, with low #globalwarmingpotential, providing a lower #carbonfootprint than many other #HFCs https://t.co/MqUGQz6O8h https://t.co/GjMi4M6mHc

#R32refrigerant - A revolution in #HVAC
R32 #airconditioning systems use up to 20% less #refrigerant than #R410A equivalents.
R32 boasts impressive #ecocredentials, with low #globalwarmingpotential, providing a lower #carbonfootprint than many other #HFCs https://t.co/MqUGQz6O8h pic.twitter.com/GjMi4M6mHc

— Kirsty Hammond (@KirHammond) June 29, 2018

Source: @KirHammond June 29, 2018 at 12:17PM
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How can Green Roofs improve biodiversity?

How can Green Roofs improve biodiversity?

The level of biodiversity on a green roof will be dependant on a number of factors including the type of green roof installed.

In the past green roofs were designed with mainly engineering concerns at the top of the list such as storm water retention, energy consumption and overall building performance. However, while these are important factors, things have developed and now greater consideration is given over to ecological design and how green roofs can provide good habitats for a range of wildlife. This is particularly significant in towns and cities where natural habitats are few and often fragmented.

Due to their position, the fact remains that green roofs offer a stressed environment for would be colonizers, so it is important to accept that you are not going to be able to replicate ground level habitats. Furthermore, it is going to be a tougher journey for terrestrial wildlife to get to a roof top than it is for their more upwardly mobile cousins that may have the benefit of wings.

Green Roof Substrate

The type of roof substrate can also impact the type of plants that can be successful on a green roof. Generally speaking, crushed concrete is not good for retaining water or nutrients and is best avoided. Research has shown that sedum roof systems provide benefits to a number of invertebrates such as providing pollinators with foraging opportunities from the sedum flowers. The Riefa lightweight and organic green roof growing medium is ideal for a sedum roof. It is always worth considering the type of plants you choose for your green roof as some plants offer greater value to wildlife than others. Though appealing, we would not recommend that you choose the self-seeding method of greening your roof as you will probably end up with a terrible mess and a number of problematic plants such as buddleja whose root system will damage the materials it grows in. 

Ecologically Designed Green Roofs

On extensive green roofs that have been ecologically designed, it is possible for ground nesting birds to nest or forage on the roof. Additionally, these sites offer a better level of security from predators. There have been a number of success stories from across Europe where birds such as black redstart, little ringed plovers and skylarks have all benefitted. It is generally accepted that where a suitable niche is provided on a green roof, plants and animals will establish new communities quickly. Compare this with the largely desolate conventional roof where the level of biodiversity is minimal.

The more features you have on a green roof then the more diverse range of habitats can be created that in turn will be more attractive to greater diversity of wildlife. It makes sense doesn’t it? You can use twig bundles, hollow logs, nesting boxes and rocks to add variety. It is best to plant a variety of species rather than a mono-culture alongside a varied substrate depth to really maximise biodiversity.

At Riefa, we appreciate that not all living roof projects are suitable for maximising biodiversity. For the small to medium sized projects a sedum roof with a high quality growing medium will create an excellent habitat for many an invertebrate and an excellent source of food for bees and butterflies.

What Next For Your Green Roofing Project?

To discuss your living roof project call us on 0844 057 0359. We’d be glad to give advice and can supply everything you’ll need for your green roof including a root resistant membrane, your sedum and importantly your lightweight and organic green roof growing medium.

 

The post How can Green Roofs improve biodiversity? appeared first on Specifier Review - Architecture - Design - Innovation

Kirsty Hammond

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Morgeous Design Use Bushboard Options for Community Centre Kitchen Transformation

Morgeous Design Use Bushboard Options for Community Centre Kitchen Transformation

In a hard working environment such as a community kitchen, practicality combined with style are essentials. When the Ladybarn Community Centre in Manchester recently secured funding to give their kitchen a much-needed makeover they wanted a wow factor look that would be easy to maintain. Team, Morgeous Design took on the challenge which was made extra difficult because there was a time slot of just four days to complete the project.

Ladybarn Community Association exists to work with the local community and in partnership with other organisations to develop opportunities for local people through the provision of activities that meet the needs of the local community.

“‘I wanted people to be wowed when they walked in but we had to keep to a budget and to the time scale,” said Sian Astley from Morgeous. “I had saved an inspirational room shot from deVOL that I wanted to recreate but I needed to work out how to achieve the style within the budget. I found the answer at KBB 2018 when I visited Bushboard’s stand and saw a fabulous selection of impressive designs – but the one that really caught my eye was Turin Marble from the Options range. The samples from Bushboard arrived quickly – they offer free of charge samples within 72 hours – and were a decent size. The information both online and in the brochures is clear and easy to understand which made it much easier to finalise the design for the project.”

Morgeous chose Turin Marble – a décor that makes a luxury statement in any kitchen. The distinctive design is printed in life-like proportion to truly echo nature. The end result is a striking kitchen with laminate featured on both the worktops and on matching splashbacks to give a sleek, easy to clean finish. Turn Marble provides a bold contrast to the black kitchen units. “Everyone who uses the kitchen loves the new look,” explained Sian. “Bushboard laminate lets the customer go for a luxury look at a sensible price. With such a choice of decors choosing Bushboard means great design is always possible whatever the budget.”

For more information about the Bushboard products, request a RIBA CPD, download an NBS specification or order samples visit www.bushboard.co.uk
01933 232 242

 

The post Morgeous Design Use Bushboard Options for Community Centre Kitchen Transformation appeared first on Specifier Review - Architecture - Design - Innovation

Kirsty Hammond

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How can Green Roofs improve biodiversity?

How can Green Roofs improve biodiversity?

The level of biodiversity on a green roof will be dependant on a number of factors including the type of green roof installed.

In the past green roofs were designed with mainly engineering concerns at the top of the list such as storm water retention, energy consumption and overall building performance. However, while these are important factors, things have developed and now greater consideration is given over to ecological design and how green roofs can provide good habitats for a range of wildlife. This is particularly significant in towns and cities where natural habitats are few and often fragmented.

Due to their position, the fact remains that green roofs offer a stressed environment for would be colonizers, so it is important to accept that you are not going to be able to replicate ground level habitats. Furthermore, it is going to be a tougher journey for terrestrial wildlife to get to a roof top than it is for their more upwardly mobile cousins that may have the benefit of wings.

Green Roof Substrate

The type of roof substrate can also impact the type of plants that can be successful on a green roof. Generally speaking, crushed concrete is not good for retaining water or nutrients and is best avoided. Research has shown that sedum roof systems provide benefits to a number of invertebrates such as providing pollinators with foraging opportunities from the sedum flowers. The Riefa lightweight and organic green roof growing medium is ideal for a sedum roof. It is always worth considering the type of plants you choose for your green roof as some plants offer greater value to wildlife than others. Though appealing, we would not recommend that you choose the self-seeding method of greening your roof as you will probably end up with a terrible mess and a number of problematic plants such as buddleja whose root system will damage the materials it grows in. 

Ecologically Designed Green Roofs

On extensive green roofs that have been ecologically designed, it is possible for ground nesting birds to nest or forage on the roof. Additionally, these sites offer a better level of security from predators. There have been a number of success stories from across Europe where birds such as black redstart, little ringed plovers and skylarks have all benefitted. It is generally accepted that where a suitable niche is provided on a green roof, plants and animals will establish new communities quickly. Compare this with the largely desolate conventional roof where the level of biodiversity is minimal.

The more features you have on a green roof then the more diverse range of habitats can be created that in turn will be more attractive to greater diversity of wildlife. It makes sense doesn’t it? You can use twig bundles, hollow logs, nesting boxes and rocks to add variety. It is best to plant a variety of species rather than a mono-culture alongside a varied substrate depth to really maximise biodiversity.

At Riefa, we appreciate that not all living roof projects are suitable for maximising biodiversity. For the small to medium sized projects a sedum roof with a high quality growing medium will create an excellent habitat for many an invertebrate and an excellent source of food for bees and butterflies.

What Next For Your Green Roofing Project?

To discuss your living roof project call us on 0844 057 0359. We’d be glad to give advice and can supply everything you’ll need for your green roof including a root resistant membrane, your sedum and importantly your lightweight and organic green roof growing medium.

 

The post How can Green Roofs improve biodiversity? appeared first on Specifier Review - Architecture - Design - Innovation

Kirsty Hammond

source https://specifierreview.com/2018/06/26/green-roofs-improve-biodiversity/

Morgeous Design Use Bushboard Options for Community Centre Kitchen Transformation

Morgeous Design Use Bushboard Options for Community Centre Kitchen Transformation

In a hard working environment such as a community kitchen, practicality combined with style are essentials. When the Ladybarn Community Centre in Manchester recently secured funding to give their kitchen a much-needed makeover they wanted a wow factor look that would be easy to maintain. Team, Morgeous Design took on the challenge which was made extra difficult because there was a time slot of just four days to complete the project.

Ladybarn Community Association exists to work with the local community and in partnership with other organisations to develop opportunities for local people through the provision of activities that meet the needs of the local community.

“‘I wanted people to be wowed when they walked in but we had to keep to a budget and to the time scale,” said Sian Astley from Morgeous. “I had saved an inspirational room shot from deVOL that I wanted to recreate but I needed to work out how to achieve the style within the budget. I found the answer at KBB 2018 when I visited Bushboard’s stand and saw a fabulous selection of impressive designs – but the one that really caught my eye was Turin Marble from the Options range. The samples from Bushboard arrived quickly – they offer free of charge samples within 72 hours – and were a decent size. The information both online and in the brochures is clear and easy to understand which made it much easier to finalise the design for the project.”

Morgeous chose Turin Marble – a décor that makes a luxury statement in any kitchen. The distinctive design is printed in life-like proportion to truly echo nature. The end result is a striking kitchen with laminate featured on both the worktops and on matching splashbacks to give a sleek, easy to clean finish. Turn Marble provides a bold contrast to the black kitchen units. “Everyone who uses the kitchen loves the new look,” explained Sian. “Bushboard laminate lets the customer go for a luxury look at a sensible price. With such a choice of decors choosing Bushboard means great design is always possible whatever the budget.”

For more information about the Bushboard products, request a RIBA CPD, download an NBS specification or order samples visit www.bushboard.co.uk
01933 232 242

 

The post Morgeous Design Use Bushboard Options for Community Centre Kitchen Transformation appeared first on Specifier Review - Architecture - Design - Innovation

Kirsty Hammond

source https://specifierreview.com/2018/06/25/morgeous-design-use-bushboard/

Southampton’s Watermark Westquay wins 2018 Prix-Versailles World Architecture Award

Southampton’s Watermark Westquay wins 2018 Prix-Versailles World Architecture Award

RGU students design therapeutic landscape and active spaces with CLAN and Transition Extreme

RGU students design therapeutic landscape and active spaces with CLAN and Transition Extreme

Architecture students at Robert Gordon University (RGU) have been tasked with designing innovative spaces for two Aberdeen organisations as part of a new learning and teaching philosophy, ‘Community as an extended classroom’.

The project has seen the stage three students work in groups alongside cancer charity, CLAN, and outdoor sports centre, Transition Extreme, to design new outdoor spaces.

The project is part of a module which focuses on understanding relationships between people and their environments.

The coursework objective was to train students to investigate urban design then generate design ideas to reflect the needs of real clients. The students met with the clients to discuss and later present their ideas, supporting their designs with graphical materials.

Creating sensory and therapeutic spaces, bridging the gap between indoor and outdoor environments, was central to CLAN’s design remit.

Susanne Shepherd, Communications & Marketing Manager at CLAN, said: “Each group took the CLAN brief and produced creative and imaginative work which fulfilled our brief of being accessible, forward thinking and creating an additional asset to CLAN House.

“From the initial meeting the CLAN team had with the students to the final presentation of the ideas, we were struck by the enthusiasm and professionalism of the group.”

Transition Extreme’s vision was the regeneration of ambiguous and undefined outdoor spaces into active and more inclusively designed zones for use by the wider public.

Grahame Paterson, the CEO of Transition Extreme, said: “It is priceless for organisations like Transition Extreme to be able to work in partnership with the Robert Gordon University, and we are delighted that this latest project together showcases the value of the relationship.

“I have been impressed by the quality of work, the professional processes that students followed, their ability to absorb a detailed briefing and reflect the objective of the project so well.”

The ‘community engagement’ teaching methods have been implemented by Dr Quazi Zaman since 2010.

He commented: “I believe this way of teaching helps build architecture students’ confidence as well as their practical skills. This method of learning is pragmatic, engaging and more professional than entirely classroom teaching.”

Connor Stephen, a student involved in the Transition Extreme exercise, added: “From this project, both myself and my team gained a lot of knowledge regarding the practicality of the urban development. During our research and exploration, we came to a conclusion that for a development of this scale to be successful it needs to be finely tuned and developed for the surrounding context (physical or social).”

The projects build on previous outreach exercises undertaken in the past five years which have included working with school pupils at Portlethen Primary School, the Robert Gordon College and residents of the Hutcheon and Seamount tower blocks. The students’ designs for CLAN and Transition Extreme are being developed for further research and publication in the near future.

The post RGU students design therapeutic landscape and active spaces with CLAN and Transition Extreme appeared first on Specifier Review - Architecture - Design - Innovation

Kirsty Hammond

source https://specifierreview.com/2018/06/24/transition-extreme/

RGU students design therapeutic landscape and active spaces with CLAN and Transition Extreme

RGU students design therapeutic landscape and active spaces with CLAN and Transition Extreme

Architecture students at Robert Gordon University (RGU) have been tasked with designing innovative spaces for two Aberdeen organisations as part of a new learning and teaching philosophy, ‘Community as an extended classroom’.

The project has seen the stage three students work in groups alongside cancer charity, CLAN, and outdoor sports centre, Transition Extreme, to design new outdoor spaces.

The project is part of a module which focuses on understanding relationships between people and their environments.

The coursework objective was to train students to investigate urban design then generate design ideas to reflect the needs of real clients. The students met with the clients to discuss and later present their ideas, supporting their designs with graphical materials.

Creating sensory and therapeutic spaces, bridging the gap between indoor and outdoor environments, was central to CLAN’s design remit.

Susanne Shepherd, Communications & Marketing Manager at CLAN, said: “Each group took the CLAN brief and produced creative and imaginative work which fulfilled our brief of being accessible, forward thinking and creating an additional asset to CLAN House.

“From the initial meeting the CLAN team had with the students to the final presentation of the ideas, we were struck by the enthusiasm and professionalism of the group.”

Transition Extreme’s vision was the regeneration of ambiguous and undefined outdoor spaces into active and more inclusively designed zones for use by the wider public.

Grahame Paterson, the CEO of Transition Extreme, said: “It is priceless for organisations like Transition Extreme to be able to work in partnership with the Robert Gordon University, and we are delighted that this latest project together showcases the value of the relationship.

“I have been impressed by the quality of work, the professional processes that students followed, their ability to absorb a detailed briefing and reflect the objective of the project so well.”

The ‘community engagement’ teaching methods have been implemented by Dr Quazi Zaman since 2010.

He commented: “I believe this way of teaching helps build architecture students’ confidence as well as their practical skills. This method of learning is pragmatic, engaging and more professional than entirely classroom teaching.”

Connor Stephen, a student involved in the Transition Extreme exercise, added: “From this project, both myself and my team gained a lot of knowledge regarding the practicality of the urban development. During our research and exploration, we came to a conclusion that for a development of this scale to be successful it needs to be finely tuned and developed for the surrounding context (physical or social).”

The projects build on previous outreach exercises undertaken in the past five years which have included working with school pupils at Portlethen Primary School, the Robert Gordon College and residents of the Hutcheon and Seamount tower blocks. The students’ designs for CLAN and Transition Extreme are being developed for further research and publication in the near future.

The post RGU students design therapeutic landscape and active spaces with CLAN and Transition Extreme appeared first on Specifier Review - Architecture - Design - Innovation

Kirsty Hammond

from Specifier Review https://ift.tt/2MiBZRf
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A royally #renewable revolution #TheHubME https://t.co/UjjwGuAgVL

A royally #renewable revolution #HVAC #TheHubME https://t.co/UjjwGuAgVL

— Kirsty Hammond (@KirHammond) June 22, 2018

Source: @KirHammond June 22, 2018 at 03:05PM
More info Your Website/Page Anchor Text Here

Vent-Axia Supports Clean Air Day 2018

Vent-Axia Supports Clean Air Day 2018

Sussex-based Vent-Axia, a leading British ventilation manufacturer, is delighted to support Clean Air Day on 21 June 2018. The day is co-ordinated by environmental charity Global Action Plan and aims to raise awareness of the risks of air pollution and the simple things everyone can do to improve their air quality and health.

Poor air quality is proven to negatively impact on everyone’s health, increasing the risk of serious illnesses and making existing conditions, like respiratory disorders, worse. The purpose of Clean Air Day is to increase understanding of the risks and educate everyone on how to reduce air pollution and improve indoor air quality (IAQ). In the past, the focus was on outdoor air pollution but Clean Air Day aims to highlight the devastating health impacts of poor IAQ too. This growing problem has been recognised in DEFRA’s new Clean Air Strategy as well as recent research on Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) published in Science.

“We should look closer to home as this is where we spend most of our time. Indoor air can be more hazardous than outdoor air, particularly for children and the elderly” said Professor Peter Howarth, University of Southampton.

A staggering 65% of homes in the UK suffer from poor IAQ as a result of inadequate ventilation. This is having a significant negative impact on the health of people in their homes with poor IAQ contributing towards many serious health problems such as asthma, lung cancer, strokes and cardiovascular disease.

“We are pleased to support Clean Air Day as it continues to raise awareness of the importance of clean air, particularly indoor air quality, and how everyone can make changes to improve their IAQ and their health” said Jenny Smith, Marketing Manager at Vent-Axia. “The initiative explains that the best way to manage poor IAQ is effective ventilation and at Vent-Axia we are committed to improving IAQ by designing ventilation products that meet the demands of increasingly airtight homes. We are also committed to sharing our knowledge of how ventilation can help protect public health.”

Clean Air Day gives suggestions for a number of quick and easy ways for people to make positive changes to their home and their lifestyle to improve IAQ but that the first key step that should be made is to ventilate effectively. However, ventilation experts warn that opening windows is not an effective or efficient method of ventilating a home and should not be seen as an alternative to a properly installed ventilation system. This is backed up by Professor Hazim B. Awbi, University of Reading, who explains “To avoid a serious and significant increase in asthma cases and other health conditions related to poor indoor air quality, homes must be adequately ventilated.”

To help protect health in the home, Vent-Axia has been working hard to provide ventilation solutions to improve IAQ for households. Designed to work with the natural air infiltration, continuous ventilation systems control the air path through the home, removing damaging humidity and pollutants, such as VOCs.

For new builds, Vent-Axia’s Sentinel Kinetic mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) system boasts an impressive 94% heat recovery. For private refurbishments, Vent-Axia’s Lo-Carbon Svara offers quiet, disturbance-free running helping ensure good indoor air quality and comfort. Meanwhile the Lo-Carbon Revive has been designed specifically with social housing in mind offering an effective continuous ventilation solution for residents.

To find out more about Clean Air Day visit https://www.cleanairday.org.uk/. For up-to-date ventilation guidance visit: www.vent-axia.com/healthyhomes. For further information on all products and services offered by Vent-Axia, telephone 0844 856 0590 or visit www.vent-axia.com.

 

The post Vent-Axia Supports Clean Air Day 2018 appeared first on Specifier Review - Architecture - Design - Innovation

Kirsty Hammond

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Ultra Quiet #Ecodan takes #HeatPumps to the next level. #ASHP #RenewableEnergy https://t.co/HvFPyVjuFf https://t.co/43uH9rrPfZ

Ultra Quiet #Ecodan takes #HeatPumps to the next level.#HVAC #ASHP #RenewableEnergy
https://t.co/HvFPyVjuFf pic.twitter.com/43uH9rrPfZ

— Kirsty Hammond (@KirHammond) June 21, 2018

Source: @KirHammond June 21, 2018 at 02:08PM
More info Your Website/Page Anchor Text Here

Vent-Axia Supports Clean Air Day 2018

Vent-Axia Supports Clean Air Day 2018

Sussex-based Vent-Axia, a leading British ventilation manufacturer, is delighted to support Clean Air Day on 21 June 2018. The day is co-ordinated by environmental charity Global Action Plan and aims to raise awareness of the risks of air pollution and the simple things everyone can do to improve their air quality and health.

Poor air quality is proven to negatively impact on everyone’s health, increasing the risk of serious illnesses and making existing conditions, like respiratory disorders, worse. The purpose of Clean Air Day is to increase understanding of the risks and educate everyone on how to reduce air pollution and improve indoor air quality (IAQ). In the past, the focus was on outdoor air pollution but Clean Air Day aims to highlight the devastating health impacts of poor IAQ too. This growing problem has been recognised in DEFRA’s new Clean Air Strategy as well as recent research on Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) published in Science.

“We should look closer to home as this is where we spend most of our time. Indoor air can be more hazardous than outdoor air, particularly for children and the elderly” said Professor Peter Howarth, University of Southampton.

A staggering 65% of homes in the UK suffer from poor IAQ as a result of inadequate ventilation. This is having a significant negative impact on the health of people in their homes with poor IAQ contributing towards many serious health problems such as asthma, lung cancer, strokes and cardiovascular disease.

“We are pleased to support Clean Air Day as it continues to raise awareness of the importance of clean air, particularly indoor air quality, and how everyone can make changes to improve their IAQ and their health” said Jenny Smith, Marketing Manager at Vent-Axia. “The initiative explains that the best way to manage poor IAQ is effective ventilation and at Vent-Axia we are committed to improving IAQ by designing ventilation products that meet the demands of increasingly airtight homes. We are also committed to sharing our knowledge of how ventilation can help protect public health.”

Clean Air Day gives suggestions for a number of quick and easy ways for people to make positive changes to their home and their lifestyle to improve IAQ but that the first key step that should be made is to ventilate effectively. However, ventilation experts warn that opening windows is not an effective or efficient method of ventilating a home and should not be seen as an alternative to a properly installed ventilation system. This is backed up by Professor Hazim B. Awbi, University of Reading, who explains “To avoid a serious and significant increase in asthma cases and other health conditions related to poor indoor air quality, homes must be adequately ventilated.”

To help protect health in the home, Vent-Axia has been working hard to provide ventilation solutions to improve IAQ for households. Designed to work with the natural air infiltration, continuous ventilation systems control the air path through the home, removing damaging humidity and pollutants, such as VOCs.

For new builds, Vent-Axia’s Sentinel Kinetic mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) system boasts an impressive 94% heat recovery. For private refurbishments, Vent-Axia’s Lo-Carbon Svara offers quiet, disturbance-free running helping ensure good indoor air quality and comfort. Meanwhile the Lo-Carbon Revive has been designed specifically with social housing in mind offering an effective continuous ventilation solution for residents.

To find out more about Clean Air Day visit https://www.cleanairday.org.uk/. For up-to-date ventilation guidance visit: www.vent-axia.com/healthyhomes. For further information on all products and services offered by Vent-Axia, telephone 0844 856 0590 or visit www.vent-axia.com.

 

The post Vent-Axia Supports Clean Air Day 2018 appeared first on Specifier Review - Architecture - Design - Innovation

Kirsty Hammond

source https://specifierreview.com/2018/06/21/vent-axia-supports-clean-air-day/

RT @Bigfootsystems: Big Foot Systems supplies rooftop solution to complex #London project https://t.co/zetMPRLgcD #SafeAccess #Roofing #Offices https://t.co/IFeZvU39zZ

Big Foot Systems supplies rooftop solution to complex #London project https://t.co/zetMPRLgcD #SafeAccess #HVAC #Roofing #Offices pic.twitter.com/IFeZvU39zZ

— Big Foot Systems (@Bigfootsystems) June 14, 2018

Source: @KirHammond June 21, 2018 at 10:50AM
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e-Series to the rescue for Contour Homes

e-Series to the rescue for Contour Homes

When Contour Homes was looking for a new chiller due to ongoing problems with its old one, Preston based GOS Mechanical & Electrical Ltd recommended the installation of three Mitsubishi Electric EAHV-P900YA-N e-series heat pump chillers to provide a low-carbon, cost-effective option for the Housing Association.

Contour Homes, part of the Symphony Housing Group, is one of Manchester’s largest registered social landlords with over 12,000 properties under its ownership and management across 23 local authorities.

The Housing Association provides a wide range of services from a number of local offices throughout the North West. Its main office, based on Christie Way, West Didsbury, once belonged to leading pharmaceutical firm AstraZeneca.  It comprises offices and meeting rooms and is staffed during office hours.

“Our chiller had failed and we had been trying to get it replaced for a number of years due to complaints from staff,” explained Rob Brierley, Gas Technical Surveyor at Contour Homes. “The offices often overheated during the summer and it wasn’t a good working environment.”

The existing chiller system eventually failed in September 2017, so when funds became available a new chiller system was a high priority. As well as the efficiency benefits of the new system, there were other factors to be taken in to account before the new chillers could be installed.

One problem with the old system was the level of noise it created. Employers have a duty of care to ensure their workers are not exposed to excessive noise. Prolonged exposure to noise can lead to gradual hearing loss, so a much quieter system was sought for this project. By utilising highly efficient components within a uniquely shaped chiller, the e-series offers low noise levels.

Cooling is one of the main contributors to energy usage in buildings, so Contour Homes’ new system had to be energy efficient to help the building comply with modern efficiency requirements, such as the Minimum Energy Performance Standard, which came into force on 1st April 2018.

Another potential issue was the fact the existing plant space is extremely tight, making access to the area very difficult. Interruption to office opening hours and staff activity also had to be kept to a minimum.

Preston based GOS Mechanical & Electrical Ltd has years of experience in providing mechanical, plumbing and boiler services throughout Preston and Lancashire. They completed the installation between October 2017 and December 2017.

Peter Jackson, Managing Director at GOS Mechanical & Electrical Ltd, believes the choice of chiller played a key role in ensuring a straightforward installation. He said: “The e-series chiller was a sensible choice as it was available immediately. The only concern we had was the tight working space, but the flexibility of Mitsubishi Electric’s modular approach meant it could be easily manoeuvred into position.”

The e-series’ unique modular approach allows up to six individual units to be connected together to provide a system capacity from 90kW to 540kW. Using this modular approach reduces space requirements and simplifies lifting and installation.

The e-series modular chiller has two inverter driven compressors that allow the unit to operate between 8% – 100% of capacity. By having a broad operating range the e-series has exceptional part load efficiencies which is where most systems will operate.

Contour Homes is delighted with the new system, which provides the office building with a cooling capacity of 270kW as Rob Brierley concludes: “Mitsubishi Electric has provided us with a modern, reliable and energy efficient chiller that I’m sure will prove to be a great investment in the long term.”

https://les.mitsubishielectric.co.uk/

The post e-Series to the rescue for Contour Homes appeared first on Specifier Review - Architecture - Design - Innovation

Kirsty Hammond

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Innovative power solutions for marinas and moorings

Innovative power solutions for marinas and moorings

Thousands of marinas and moorings are located throughout the UK and the rest of the world. Location plays a key part in the facilities offered by a marina, however one of the fundamental amenities required by boat owners is a source of electricity for boat owners.

Pop Up Power Supplies® supply a range of retractable service units that provide a safe and reliable power supply for all kinds of marinas and moorings, whether in a large marina complex or moorings across many canals.

The retractable nature of the power units mean whenever they are needed to provide electricity for boats and club house facilities within marinas, they are raised (pop up power units) or the lids opened with a simple key (in ground units). And when they are not needed, they are simply lowered back into the ground. This ensures walkways and jetties are clear and safe for pedestrian access, which is a crucial factor being next to open water.

UK boating industry booming

The popularity of marinas and moorings, particularly within the UK, is increasing at a rapid rate. This is down to the UK’s boat and yacht industry having a surge in sales, despite the difficult economic conditions we currently face. Also, the weak pound has seen a 4.7% increase in overseas sales.

The rise in popularity of the ‘staycation’ is another factor of marinas’ increasing success. UK residents are favouring to stay in the UK for their holidays, and are increasingly holidaying on barges, yachts, canal cruises and other watersports trips.

This increasing demand has meant marinas and moorings are investing in their facilities. Many are upgrading their club houses and other on-site facilities e.g. showers and toilets, to offer visitors a better experience.

Marinas and mooring facilities are now utilising their outdoor spaces with greater effect. Stalls and kiosks provide visitors with food and entertainment in an increasing number of outdoor events and fairs. However powering these stalls has been quite difficult, as traditional power options e.g. generators, are noisy, smelly and are a hazard for nearby visitors.

Providing safe outdoor power solutions for marinas and moorings

Pop Up Power Supplies® offer a range of pop up power units which provide a safe, secure outdoor power supply for marinas and moorings. Not only are their power units perfect for providing an outdoor electricity supply for events and fairs, but they can also be positioned closer to the berths and jetties where they provide a power supply for the nearby boats.

Two of their retractable service units are popular among marinas, the pop up power units and the in ground power units. The pop up power units, also known as retractable telescopic feeder pillars, provide a secure power source for marinas and can be raised and lowered easily with a detachable handle. This means staff at marinas are able to operate them easily. The power units are easy to install and only require light excavation.

Boat owners and marina staff simply raise the pop up power unit where they have access to a range of power sockets. These power units range from 16A to 12 5A power supply in both single and three phase, all with RCBO protection.

When the boat owner departs the berth, the power units are simply lowered back into the ground until the next visitor, where they blend seamlessly with the local environment.

Pop Up Power Supplies also provide a range of in ground units (also known as flip lid units). One of the main advantage of these power units is that they can be operated with the lid locked down. This prevents any public access and reduces trip hazards on walkways, jetties and other areas around the marina facilities, which is a crucial factor being next to open water. The power sockets are safely located within the high-grade mild steel structure, which is hot dip galvanised to BS EN: ISO1461.

Pop up power units for outside spaces

The simplicity of specifying the pop up plug sockets means the units are a favourite with architects, contractors, electrical engineers, developers, and marina owners. Our power units are supplied complete, therefore once they have been designed to the suitable specification, they are delivered to site where all the contractor has to do then is to dig the required hole and install the unit.

If you are a marina owner or working on a marina project, and would like further information on how our pop up power units can benefit you, please contact us by either telephone 0208 227 0208, email info@popuppower.co.uk or visit our website popuppower.co.uk

Telephone: 0208 227 0208
Website: popuppower.co.uk

The post Innovative power solutions for marinas and moorings appeared first on Specifier Review - Architecture - Design - Innovation

Kirsty Hammond

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#Cooling is one of the main contributors to energy usage in #buildings, so Contour #Homes’ new system had to be #energyefficient to help the #building comply with modern efficiency requirements, such as the Minimum #EnergyPerformance Standard... https://t.co/6F8IGgBeoC https://t.co/8QNYmyYMDE

#Cooling is one of the main contributors to energy usage in #buildings, so Contour #Homes’ new system had to be #energyefficient to help the #building comply with modern efficiency requirements, such as the Minimum #EnergyPerformance Standard... #HVAC https://t.co/6F8IGgBeoC pic.twitter.com/8QNYmyYMDE

— Kirsty Hammond (@KirHammond) June 20, 2018

Source: @KirHammond June 20, 2018 at 07:42AM
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A royally renewable revolution

A royally renewable revolution

Brett Landscaping wins Best External Product 2018 for GeoCeramica ®

Brett Landscaping wins Best External Product 2018 for GeoCeramica ®

Brett Landscaping has won the ‘Best External Product’ category in the Housebuilder Product Awards 2018. An expert panel of seven judges including Claire Curtis-Thomas, the CEO of the British Board of Agrément (BBA) and Dale Saunders, the UK Associate Technical Director of major housebuilder Taylor Wimpey, decided Brett Landscaping’s GeoCeramica ® should be crowned this year’s winner.

Now in their sixth year, the annual Housebuilder Awards recognise innovation and excellence within the industry. Success in these prestigious awards will help enhance a company’s reputation in the eyes of their customers and local planning authorities. With the Government policy encouraging communities to have a greater say in the design of new properties, it is becoming more important than ever for companies to be recognised for their commitment to excellence and quality in housebuilding.

Launched in 2017, Brett Landscaping’s GeoCeramica ® paving has quickly become one of the company’s most popular products.

GeoCeramica ® is a new product range which innovatively combines porcelain paving with a pre-bonded drainage mortar base. Traditionally porcelain paving had to be installed using bound methods which can be time consuming, costly and complex.  With GeoCeramica, the combined porcelain and drainage mortar allows the paving to be installed using unbound methods (i.e. sand laying course and a narrow sand filled joint). This allows the benefits of porcelain paving to be enjoyed whilst also offering the speed, ease and cost benefits from unbound installation methods.  Overall, this is a simple way of adding value and long-term benefit to the hard landscaping of someone’s new home.

The product is available in thicknesses of 40mm for patio paving and pathways and 60mm for driveways.  A 10mm ‘tile-only’ option is also available for internal spaces.  These options allow flowing designs and layouts, between the inside and outside, to be created and achieved. With 14 colour options, this gives specifiers maximum design flexibility.

Steve Edwards, National Sales Manager – Contractor/Housebuilder at Brett Landscaping said: “Brett Landscaping are incredibly pleased and excited to have won the Best External Product category at the Housebuilder 2018 Awards.

“Since we launched GeoCeramica ® last year, the feedback we’ve received from our customers has been very positive and encouraging. By having a porcelain product that can be installed using unbound methods means a much speedier installation whilst still providing the wonderful aesthetic of porcelain.  Given the high level of interest to date, we are looking forward to the future as our range develops further.”

Winners from each category will attend a celebratory lunch in London in June before becoming finalists in the Product of the Year category at the Housebuilder Awards 2018, a prestigious black-tie evening event which will be attended by more than 500 senior housebuilder professionals in November.

https://www.brettpaving.co.uk/

The post Brett Landscaping wins Best External Product 2018 for GeoCeramica ® appeared first on SPECIFIER REVIEW.

source https://specifierreview.com/2018/06/15/brett-landscaping-geoceramica/

Brett Landscaping wins Best External Product 2018 for GeoCeramica ®

Brett Landscaping wins Best External Product 2018 for GeoCeramica ®

Brett Landscaping has won the ‘Best External Product’ category in the Housebuilder Product Awards 2018. An expert panel of seven judges including Claire Curtis-Thomas, the CEO of the British Board of Agrément (BBA) and Dale Saunders, the UK Associate Technical Director of major housebuilder Taylor Wimpey, decided Brett Landscaping’s GeoCeramica ® should be crowned this year’s winner.

Now in their sixth year, the annual Housebuilder Awards recognise innovation and excellence within the industry. Success in these prestigious awards will help enhance a company’s reputation in the eyes of their customers and local planning authorities. With the Government policy encouraging communities to have a greater say in the design of new properties, it is becoming more important than ever for companies to be recognised for their commitment to excellence and quality in housebuilding.

Launched in 2017, Brett Landscaping’s GeoCeramica ® paving has quickly become one of the company’s most popular products.

GeoCeramica ® is a new product range which innovatively combines porcelain paving with a pre-bonded drainage mortar base. Traditionally porcelain paving had to be installed using bound methods which can be time consuming, costly and complex.  With GeoCeramica, the combined porcelain and drainage mortar allows the paving to be installed using unbound methods (i.e. sand laying course and a narrow sand filled joint). This allows the benefits of porcelain paving to be enjoyed whilst also offering the speed, ease and cost benefits from unbound installation methods.  Overall, this is a simple way of adding value and long-term benefit to the hard landscaping of someone’s new home.

The product is available in thicknesses of 40mm for patio paving and pathways and 60mm for driveways.  A 10mm ‘tile-only’ option is also available for internal spaces.  These options allow flowing designs and layouts, between the inside and outside, to be created and achieved. With 14 colour options, this gives specifiers maximum design flexibility.

Steve Edwards, National Sales Manager – Contractor/Housebuilder at Brett Landscaping said: “Brett Landscaping are incredibly pleased and excited to have won the Best External Product category at the Housebuilder 2018 Awards.

“Since we launched GeoCeramica ® last year, the feedback we’ve received from our customers has been very positive and encouraging. By having a porcelain product that can be installed using unbound methods means a much speedier installation whilst still providing the wonderful aesthetic of porcelain.  Given the high level of interest to date, we are looking forward to the future as our range develops further.”

Winners from each category will attend a celebratory lunch in London in June before becoming finalists in the Product of the Year category at the Housebuilder Awards 2018, a prestigious black-tie evening event which will be attended by more than 500 senior housebuilder professionals in November.

https://www.brettpaving.co.uk/

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Changing Attitudes to Green Infrastructure in the UK

Changing Attitudes to Green Infrastructure in the UK

With increasing pressure on ground level green spaces it comes as no surprise that we are experiencing a growing momentum across the UK in the number of green roofing and green walling projects. The increased growth in green infrastructure is taking place across the board and includes residential, commercial and public development projects.

Though cynically, many of the commercial projects have no doubt come about as a result of ticking the necessary boxes to meet their corporate social responsibility targets, the overall trend can only be a good thing (especially when compared with the sterile tall buildings covered with sheets of glass).

Linked Urban Eco-System

As mentioned in our previous articles, the growth in green roofing has largely originated in London as part of the GLR’s planning policy. This is also strongly backed up by the Mayor’s enthusiasm for reducing pollution in the capital and his general interest in urban greening.

There has obviously been a shift in thinking over the past few years regarding green infrastructure and the benefits that can be gained by creating a linked up urban eco-system. By linking together parks, open spaces, trees, squares, streets, woodland and even waterways it is possible to make our urban areas a much healthier, safer and richer place to live and work in.

Green Roof Regional Planning Policies

Generally speaking, the growth in green infrastructure has been driven by local and regional planning policies. London aside, we’ve seen a positive attitude from councils in Sheffield and Brighton even though they have no specific policy in place. However, we expect this to change as part of a wider policy programme that aims to combat climate change. This will see the regions experience a greater proliferation of installed green roofing systems. This shift of focus from London to the rest of the UK cannot come quick enough in terms of the wider benefits to be gained.

The need for more housing provides an ideal opportunity for the construction sector to get on board. When suitably supported by local planning authorities, we have seen that developers quickly modify their thinking towards greener housing developments. With the right policies in place, it would be a matter of time before regional developers start to appreciate the value of green roofs when marketing their properties. These green roof spaces can be built into the infrastructure of the buildings to be enjoyed by residents or employees as an amenity with proper legal access.

What Next For Your Green Roofing Project?

To chat about your forthcoming project call us on 0844 057 0359. We’re happy to give advice and can supply everything you’ll need for your green roof including a root resistant membrane, your sedum and importantly your lightweight and organic green roof growing medium.

https://www.riefagreenroof.co.uk

The post Changing Attitudes to Green Infrastructure in the UK appeared first on SPECIFIER REVIEW.

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Changing Attitudes to Green Infrastructure in the UK

Changing Attitudes to Green Infrastructure in the UK

With increasing pressure on ground level green spaces it comes as no surprise that we are experiencing a growing momentum across the UK in the number of green roofing and green walling projects. The increased growth in green infrastructure is taking place across the board and includes residential, commercial and public development projects.

Though cynically, many of the commercial projects have no doubt come about as a result of ticking the necessary boxes to meet their corporate social responsibility targets, the overall trend can only be a good thing (especially when compared with the sterile tall buildings covered with sheets of glass).

Linked Urban Eco-System

As mentioned in our previous articles, the growth in green roofing has largely originated in London as part of the GLR’s planning policy. This is also strongly backed up by the Mayor’s enthusiasm for reducing pollution in the capital and his general interest in urban greening.

There has obviously been a shift in thinking over the past few years regarding green infrastructure and the benefits that can be gained by creating a linked up urban eco-system. By linking together parks, open spaces, trees, squares, streets, woodland and even waterways it is possible to make our urban areas a much healthier, safer and richer place to live and work in.

Green Roof Regional Planning Policies

Generally speaking, the growth in green infrastructure has been driven by local and regional planning policies. London aside, we’ve seen a positive attitude from councils in Sheffield and Brighton even though they have no specific policy in place. However, we expect this to change as part of a wider policy programme that aims to combat climate change. This will see the regions experience a greater proliferation of installed green roofing systems. This shift of focus from London to the rest of the UK cannot come quick enough in terms of the wider benefits to be gained.

The need for more housing provides an ideal opportunity for the construction sector to get on board. When suitably supported by local planning authorities, we have seen that developers quickly modify their thinking towards greener housing developments. With the right policies in place, it would be a matter of time before regional developers start to appreciate the value of green roofs when marketing their properties. These green roof spaces can be built into the infrastructure of the buildings to be enjoyed by residents or employees as an amenity with proper legal access.

What Next For Your Green Roofing Project?

To chat about your forthcoming project call us on 0844 057 0359. We’re happy to give advice and can supply everything you’ll need for your green roof including a root resistant membrane, your sedum and importantly your lightweight and organic green roof growing medium.

https://www.riefagreenroof.co.uk

The post Changing Attitudes to Green Infrastructure in the UK appeared first on SPECIFIER REVIEW.

source https://specifierreview.com/2018/06/15/green-roofing/

Government’s £400m repair fund is an opportunity to change cladding culture, says Pura Facades

Government’s £400m repair fund is an opportunity to change cladding culture, says Pura Facades

Prime minister May’s announcement last month (16 May 2018) to spend £400m on the refurbishment of 158 high rise buildings identified within England’s social housing estate has been widely welcomed by the construction industry and housing chiefs alike. However, the considerable war chest earmarked by government to bring these dwellings up to standard should also be used to create a new culture in UK housing, which treats residents in the private and public sector with equal respect.

That is the view of James Butler, commercial director of PURA Facades, part of Vivalda Group, the UK’s largest independent distributor and fabricator of high performance cladding systems. ‘Based on the average cladding area of 3,000 sq.m for a high rise, this budget suggests a figure of over £2.5m per tower, which on the face of it appears generous,” he said. “Our calculations indicate that it’s more than enough to dismantle the existing cladding and replace this with quality, market-leading incombustible facades. And this includes all the elements of a through-wall rainscreen cladding system comprising fireproof linings and fire breaks, insulation, weatherproof sheathing boards and all the necessary associated fixing systems.”

“There should also be enough within this budget to install the necessary fire protection measures as long as each tower’s needs are carefully assessed on a case by case basis,” said Butler.

“While ensuring all of these homes benefit from the very best safety precautions the industry can offer, it’s also an opportunity for councils and social housing organisations to send a strong message to both residents and the construction sector in general; that there should be no gap in the quality of products being used on public or private housing. The Grenfell enquiry, led by Sir Martin Moore-Bick, has shown that there is a definite class theme running through this sorry chapter – and this funding provides us with the opportunity to change that divisive culture.”

James Butler highlighted the fact that Pura had significant experience supplying high performance products to the private sector, and that there was no reason why this ‘quality first’ approach should not replace the recently discredited ‘value engineering’ process, which was widely used in the public sector as a cost cutting tool.

He said: “While the image of cladding may have been tarnished by association with the Grenfell tragedy, the fact remains that there are many excellent, fireproof products out there that would be ideal for the 158 high rise residences awaiting refurbishment. We have the budget now, all we need is the will power and imagination from local council leaders and their appointed architects to change the culture of cladding within social housing.”

Pura has now begun working in the social housing market, demonstrating how products and methodologies used in the private sector can be adopted by public sector developments. Butler said: “While we have already worked on a couple of social housing projects that have used non-flammable natural cladding including terracotta or glass reinforced concrete (GRC) cladding from manufacturers such as Rieder of Austria, we’re also excited to see a new generation of aluminium cladding now coming onto the market.”

“Valcan is a well-established, respected manufacturer of aluminium panels that has developed Vitracore G2, which comprises exclusively layers of aluminium which form an internal, non-flammable honeycombed centre. This type of innovation shows that the market is responding positively to Grenfell and this should enable architects to consider this new generation of cladding for the social housing sector.”

www.purafacades.co.uk

The post Government’s £400m repair fund is an opportunity to change cladding culture, says Pura Facades appeared first on SPECIFIER REVIEW.

source https://specifierreview.com/2018/06/14/change-cladding-culture-pura-facades/