A German element manufacturer Brüninghoff favoured prefabricated wooden wall elements made of Kerto® LVL for its new concrete element plant. Due to the high level of prefabrication, assembly times were optimised. At the same time the material is impressively sustainable and material-efficient, fitting in with the overall concept of the
An innovative proposal for the built environment A new white paper has been published that sets out how the entire built environment sector can unite behind a single, agreed standard to determine, demonstrate and recognise construction products competence (CPC). The white paper ‘Built environment – proposed construction product competence standard
Keystone Group is delighted to launch Keystone Live this autumn with a series of free webinar debates featuring expert industry speakers. Introducing four separate webinars, the series covers a range of topics and issues including the delivery of net zero housing, offsite construction, designing with non-combustible materials and how the
Encon Construction Products, a specialist division of The Encon Group, continues to invest in growth with the launch of its first edition Product Guide. The new digital Guide includes an extensive range, helping specifiers, contractors and builders’ merchants find the right products for their building and infrastructure projects, easily and
Brett Martin’s Cascade cast iron effect rainwater system was used at a London primary school that needed a cost effective, but high performance with great aesthetics solution. The cast iron system was up for the challenge, offering exceptional styling, without compromising on drainage performance. Fryent Primary School in Kingsbury is
Rockwool’s new launch of NyRock technology delivers improved thermal performance, while maintaining non-combustibility and acoustic capabilities As pressure mounts on the construction industry to deliver more thermally efficient buildings whilst preserving standards of fire and acoustic performance, ROCKWOOL has launched NyRock technology. NyRock is an evolution in stone wool composition
The latest Timber Development UK (TDUK) statistics show record hardwood volumes were imported in May 2022. Overall import volumes for hardwood were up 25% in the period running from January to May 2022, relative to the same period in 2021. This increase in hardwood volumes has largely been driven by
James Latham strengthens its portfolio of sustainable products with HONEXT® further committing to circular design and green specification. James Latham Ltd (Lathams), one of the UK’s leading and most forward-thinking distributors of timber, panels, and decorative surfaces, announces it has become the only UK distributor of revolutionary Spanish construction panel HONEXT®. HONEXT® was
Meeting a high standing of quality is essential if we are to create buildings that are fit for purpose. While it’s the responsibility of all parties involved in a project to ensure products are installed correctly, it starts with the manufacturer. Matt Allen, Head of Sales at Sika Building Finishing,
A CHALLENGING roofing project has been successfully completed using a brand new liquid coating system, PermaRoof 500 (P500), developed by leading supplier of innovative building products PermaRoof Commercial, part of PermaGroup. The University of Leeds is the first PermaRoof Commercial client to benefit from the P500 liquid polyurethane overlay –
A German element manufacturer Brüninghoff favoured prefabricated wooden wall elements made of Kerto® LVL for its new concrete element plant. Due to the high level of prefabrication, assembly times were optimised. At the same time the material is impressively sustainable and material-efficient, fitting in with the overall concept of the new plant. The modern concrete element plant in Heiden Germany has an area of around 17,000 square metres. Metsä Wood’s Kerto LVL L-panels and Kerto LVL T-studs have been used for the prefabricated non-load-bearing wall elements. The high-quality wall elements completely cover the height of the hall giving it an attractive appearance while meeting strict standards of sustainability. “The Brüninghoff Group makes prefabricated wooden elements with a particular focus on products with a very high proportion of wood products – such as laminated veneer lumber. To this end, we carefully select partners that fit our sustainability strategy and who are reliable. In this context, we chose wall elements made of Kerto LVL from Metsä Wood for our new concrete element plant,” explains André Leipold, Technical Director of Brüninghoff Holz GmbH & Co.KG. A hybrid structure combines wooden elements with concrete Sustainability was considered as early as the planning and construction phase of the new plant. That is why a hybrid construction structure with prefabricated external non-load bearing wall elements made of Kerto LVL was chosen for the building. Metsä Wood’s laminated veneer lumber is perfect for element manufacturing. It is also extremely material-efficient; it is needed less in volume compared to other wood materials and its strength-to-weight ratio is excellent. “According to calculations using Carbon Storage Calculator, just the Kerto LVL used in the factory building stores carbon a total of 165.8 tonnes of CO2eq. This means that in comparison to other construction materials, wood is very sustainable,” explains Leipold. The building has a total of 239 wall elements with an overall area of around 5,000 square meters. The elements were produced at the Brüninghoff element factory and are attached to a load-bearing concrete frame consisting of a hybrid structure. Sustainability in focusThe new concrete element factory does not just steer production towards sustainability, but also develops a consistently sustainable construction concept. “Through this construction, we are forcing structural change towards construction that supports circular economy. Change is needed as the construction sector is responsible for consuming huge quantities of resources. It is a question of optimising construction methods, developing low-emission concepts and increasingly backing recycling solutions,” explains Frank Steffens, Managing Director of Brüninghoff.
An innovative proposal for the built environment A new white paper has been published that sets out how the entire built environment sector can unite behind a single, agreed standard to determine, demonstrate and recognise construction products competence (CPC). The white paper ‘Built environment – proposed construction product competence standard – white paper’ has been developed by Competence Steering Group (CSG) Working Group 12, led by the Construction Products Association (CPA). The CSG was tasked with responding to the competence issues raised in Dame Judith Hackitt’s report ‘Building a Safer Future’ and the subsequent requirements set out in the Building Safety Act following the Grenfell Tower fire. All industries of the built environment sector use construction products, but their misuse can lead to dangerous and potentially fatal outcomes. Ensuring those who use construction products are competent is vital to producing buildings and a built environment that is safe, efficient and performs as required. However, there is currently no universal way to demonstrate that an individual has the correct competence for the tasks they are accountable and responsible for. This white paper confirms that radical change is needed around the area of construction product competence. Individuals who supply, use, or otherwise work with construction products need to be properly assessed and deemed competent to do so. This would include those from manufacturing, merchants, design, contractors, maintainers, and many others from right across the supply chain. The proposal for a new standard comprising five core levels of competence, as well as a methodology that defines how these can be mapped consistently by the different industries to their competence frameworks. This would ensure that everyone applies CPC in the same way and would assist regulators and duty holders in identifying what levels of competence are needed for everyone who works with construction products. The levels outline fundamental knowledge bases applicable to all tasks with all construction products. They are designed to give a clear path of progression through the necessary competences required for different levels of responsibility and accountability. It can be used by industries to map against their existing training and qualifications and create any additional training infrastructure that may be needed. The white paper also proposes that the standard be added to the existing BSI 8670 series, which specifies requirements for competence frameworks for individuals working in the built environment. Peter Caplehorn, CPA Chief Executive, says: “Dame Judith Hackitt rightly pointed out that our industry needs to take responsibility for competence and work in a non-siloed manner. Now the Building Safety Act is making clear that regulators will no longer tolerate an industry that does not evidence its competence. The CPC levels have been designed to provide a single framework for everyone to work to, and I would urge the industry to read this white paper and get involved in testing it together.” The proposals are being published now to allow everyone in the built environment sector to review and consider how to apply them in their industry. It is for the different industries to recognise the necessity of clear, demonstrable CPC. Once this is recognised, it is for each industry and its organisations to take on the principles proposed in the white paper and test them. It is the aim of CPA, the CSG and WG12 that by the time the proposals go through the formal standards process, industries will have had the time to practically trial them ready for entering feedback via public consultation. There will also be a series of panel-led webinars tailored to individuals who work in the following sectors: manufacturing, design, contracting, operations & maintenance, and merchants/distributors. The first will be on for manufacturers on Wednesday 27th September. The White Paper ‘Built environment – Proposed Construction Product Competence Standard’ is available to download online here.
Keystone Group is delighted to launch Keystone Live this autumn with a series of free webinar debates featuring expert industry speakers. Introducing four separate webinars, the series covers a range of topics and issues including the delivery of net zero housing, offsite construction, designing with non-combustible materials and how the industry is tackling climate change. The first online debate, ‘How are we going to deliver Net Zero Housing?’, takes place on Thursday September 29th.With the UK facing the ambitious target of being net zero by 2050, the latest changes to Building Regulations are an all-important stepping stone to the Future Homes Standard. But with more stringent standards in the pipeline, is this achievable? Moderated by experienced journalist Ruth Slavid, this first webinar also poses the following questions:• How do we address the performance gap? • How do we build as designed?• What are the key areas we should be looking at to help improve the fabric of buildings?• Is the target of 75-80% less carbon emissions from new homes when compared to current regulations achievable?• How can manufacturers support the drive for net zero? • What role does product innovation play? Featuring debate, discussion and Q & A, the webinar has a stellar line-up of industry panellists including Martin Townsend, Director for BSI Centre of Excellence for Sustainability, Ben Cheetham, Senior Group Technical & Innovation Coordinator at Barratt Developments, Robin Dryer, Director and Architect at CDC Studio and representatives from Keystone Lintels and Keylite. The second in the webinar series on Thursday October 12th, ‘Does Offsite Construction Offer a Credible Solution to Addressing the Need for More Housing, Improved Quality and Better Value?’ focuses on the benefits of offsite construction and why the industry needs to increase its adoption. Panellists include Mark Farmer, CEO of Cast, Stephen Wightman, UK MMC Lead at Faithful+Gould and Kevin Dundas, MMC & Offsite Manager at Wilmott Dixon. Thursday November 3rd sees the webinar series ask the question: ‘Is the Construction Industry Doing Enough to Tackle Climate Change?’. Will Arnold, Head of Climate Action at Institution of Structural Engineers, Dr Oliver Jones, Research Director at Ryder Architecture and Nitesh Magdani, Director of Net Positive Solutions will offer their insight and perspectives and what we need to do as an industry to slow climate change. The final webinar on Thursday November 16th, Designing with Non-Combustible Materials will explore the challenges and key considerations when designing tall buildings and how products have evolved to meet new regulations. Ready to share their experience are expert speakers including Richard Smith, Head of Standards, Innovation & Research at NHBC and Nigel Shields, Director of Quality at Durkan. Keystone Group Marketing Director, Hayley Lowry commented “The Keystone Live series of webinars explores key themes from various industry standpoints. Debated by commentators, consultants, specifiers, contractors and product specialists – these free events are set to provide a complete 360˚ analysis of the issues at hand and are not to be missed.” For more information about Keystone Group visit https://keystonegroup.co.uk/ or to book your free place on these webinars
Encon Construction Products, a specialist division of The Encon Group, continues to invest in growth with the launch of its first edition Product Guide. The new digital Guide includes an extensive range, helping specifiers, contractors and builders’ merchants find the right products for their building and infrastructure projects, easily and quickly. Working with leading industry suppliers such as Ancon, Birtley/Expamet, GCP, RIW, Sika, Tecties, Visqueen and Weber, the Guide includes comprehensive product information across six core categories: Concrete & Reinforcement Accessories, Construction Chemicals, Geotechnical, Groundworking Products, Masonry Components and Waterproofing. Each category is colour-coded for ease of reference and customers can also access further information and technical data sheets online, in a newly developed area of the website. Vaughan Taylor, Strategy Director – Encon Construction Products comments: “We’re delighted to offer our first ever digital Product Guide specifically for Encon’s growing choice of construction products. We take pride in our wide range, specialist knowledge and technical expertise and feel this is truly reflected in our new Guide. We’re also extremely pleased to integrate this information into our website giving customers instant access across all our solutions and in a format that suits them best. The Guide and website also detail our growing Infrastructure support, which plays an integral role in large scale building projects.” Encon Construction Products was launched in 2019, strengthening the Group’s position as the leading distributor in specialist markets. The team has grown significantly over the last two years, underpinned by the strong demand in the sector and the company’s expert knowledge, widespread experience and national distribution. Earlier this year, the specialist division welcomed Richard Wade as its new Sales Director. Download the new Guide here or visit www.encon.co.uk.
Brett Martin’s Cascade cast iron effect rainwater system was used at a London primary school that needed a cost effective, but high performance with great aesthetics solution. The cast iron system was up for the challenge, offering exceptional styling, without compromising on drainage performance. Fryent Primary School in Kingsbury is one of the three primary schools that are part of Brent Council’s school expansion programme, which aims to refurbish old buildings and add new-build modular extensions. As part of this school’s refurbishment, Brett Martin provided the architect and contractor with full on-site technical support, as well as recommending a cost-effective rainwater solution which had the look and feel of the existing cast iron system, but offered the long-term benefits of plastic. Following thorough visits, the architect Peter Balham showed his specification, which included a comprehensive range of Cascade cast iron effect rainwater systems in a range of domestic and high capacity systems, all in Classic Black. The installation saw the 112mm Roundstyle gutter and 68mm round downpipe installed at the east end of the main entrance block. For the larger roofs across the other school entrances, rear and inner courtyard, play area and classroom dormer, the 115mm Deepstyle and higher capacity 170mm Deepstyle gutter systems were used to offer increased roof drainage. To deal with rainwater run-off from the flat roofed buildings surrounding the courtyard and astroturf play areas, the 105mm round and 100mm x 75mm rectangular downpipes and undated hoppers were installed. “We had been looking for an authentic and cost-effective cast-iron replacement for the main school building for some time and Cascade was far and away the best choice when compared to other rainwater systems and offered by far, the most comprehensive range to accommodate both the domestic and industrial scaled requirements on this project. It’s a quality, high performance product with period-style detailing that looks perfect and will protect the building against the ingress of water,” commented Peter Balham. Significantly lighter than cast iron rainwater systems, Cascade is much quicker, easier and safer to install at a height and helped to offer the local authority huge savings in terms of on-site installation costs which was a key consideration during the approvals process. Proven on a variety of projects from domestic new-build and refurbishment projects, church and barn conversions, Georgian and Victorian shop frontages, flats and apartments, schools and hotels, the Cascade system has been designed and developed by Brett Martin using over 60 years’ experience at the forefront of plastics technology and a unique patented manufacturing process to achieve the authentic cast iron finish. With the refurbished building and modular extension now completed, Brett Martin’s Cascade cast iron effect rainwater system has ensured an architecturally-sympathetic appearance was achieved with a reliable, durable and cost-effective drainage system that will continue to perform for many years to come. Building, Design and Construction Magazine | The Home of Construction and Property News
Rockwool’s new launch of NyRock technology delivers improved thermal performance, while maintaining non-combustibility and acoustic capabilities As pressure mounts on the construction industry to deliver more thermally efficient buildings whilst preserving standards of fire and acoustic performance, ROCKWOOL has launched NyRock technology. NyRock is an evolution in stone wool composition that delivers the lowest lambda stone wool insulation available in the UK. NyRock has a more efficient fibre structure to deliver low thermal conductivity Created using a new patented production process, this next generation stone wool insulation has a more efficient fibre structure that can deliver thermal conductivity as low as 0.032 W/mK. This means that U-values can be met with comparatively thinner constructions, which in the case of external wall applications, creates the potential for additional interior floor space over a given building footprint. Alongside its improved thermal efficiency, NyRock technology still delivers all the additional benefits of stone wool insulation including durability, the ability to be recycled indefinitely, and acoustic and fire performance. Comprising naturally non-combustible volcanic rock, ROCKWOOL solutions powered by NyRock technology achieve Euroclass A1 (the highest possible rating) and can withstand temperatures in excess of 1000°C. A solution to the rapidly evolving needs of the built environment Paul Barrett, head of product management at ROCKWOOL UK, commented: “Our new products featuring NyRock technology will be significant for the construction industry, giving specifiers and building owners a true solution to the rapidly evolving needs of the built environment and its biggest challenges. “To limit the impact of climate change and support the delivery of net zero carbon in the UK by 2050, it’s the responsibility of manufacturers like ourselves to go further, re-inventing and improving on existing solutions. NyRock technology does just that. “While stone wool insulation is already known for its proven benefits such as longevity, ease of install, circularity, and non-combustibility that is crucial for protecting people and properties, our patented technology builds on these advantages further. “Whether specifiers need a solution to the lower U-values of England’s new Approved Document L that also maximises floor space, or a non-combustible option for a high-rise property with enhanced thermal and acoustic performance, NyRock technology’s industry-leading lambda value for stone wool and ability to reduce the thickness of a construction element support those requirements.” NyRock technology will be rolled out across a range of ROCKWOOL insulation solutions during 2022. To register for updates on the launch of products featuring NyRock technology, visit rockwool.com/uk/nyrock or click here.
The latest Timber Development UK (TDUK) statistics show record hardwood volumes were imported in May 2022. Overall import volumes for hardwood were up 25% in the period running from January to May 2022, relative to the same period in 2021. This increase in hardwood volumes has largely been driven by Latvia and France, with their totals growing 110% and 82% respectively. Tropical hardwoods have also seen growth, up 44%, with Cameroonian volumes leading in this category, increasing by 4,081m3 in 2022. Overall timber volumes were also high in May 2022, as volumes climbed over the million m3 mark for the first time since September 2021. This growth in the month was driven by higher volumes of softwood, hardwood, plywood and particleboard compared to May 2021, only OSB and MDF volumes were lower. Softwood imports remain 18% below the record levels seen in 2021. TDUK Head of Technical and Trade, Nick Boulton, said: “Though May 2022 totals resembled the record levels seen last year, the overall market position in 2022 is certainly more diverse than 2021. “Hardwood imports have been driven by the pallet and packaging trade which has begun to use lower-priced, more temperate hardwood species over typically used softwood. “The global logistics market is buoyant with demand outstripping the capacity to recirculate and where necessary repair existing pallet stocks. This means the demand for new wood pallets, bearers and dunnage are all at high levels, putting significant pressure on the available log supply and specialist mills that service this sector. “New sectors are also causing pressure on supply with wood fuel, for example, becoming a key driver of demand across Europe due to the energy insecurity caused by the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Members can read the full statistics report here.
James Latham strengthens its portfolio of sustainable products with HONEXT® further committing to circular design and green specification. James Latham Ltd (Lathams), one of the UK’s leading and most forward-thinking distributors of timber, panels, and decorative surfaces, announces it has become the only UK distributor of revolutionary Spanish construction panel HONEXT®. HONEXT® was originally founded in 2011 as a collaboration between Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya researchers and three generations of the Merino family. A game-changing, carbon-neutral, lightweight construction panel, produced from waste fibres and cellulose residue from the paper industry. By upcycling this run-off material, using a proprietary biotech process, the Barcelona-based brand has achieved a fully recyclable, non-toxic board with a circular lifecycle, perfect for specifying to a sustainable brief. Suitable for interior wall and ceiling linings, and other non-loadbearing applications, the introduction of HONEXT represents the latest step in Lathams aim to be the most innovative and sustainable materials distributor in the UK and Ireland. Building on other recent forward-thinking initiatives, including the Carbon Calculator and Digital Showroom, listing HONEXT is helping its diverse audience of architects, designers and fit-out professionals make the most eco-friendly choice when selecting surfaces. Commenting on adding HONEXT to the Lathams catalogue Nick Widlinski, Panels Director says, “According to the UN Environment Programme, the construction sector was responsible for 38% of all energy-related CO2 emissions in 2019[1], prompting sustainability to become a non-negotiable in many contemporary design briefs. Specifiers are now having to respond by selecting the lowest carbon materials possible, particularly those manufactured in a circular fashion. He continues, “HONEXT meets all these needs and goes further. It’s a high-performance interior construction panel that deals with a long-standing waste management problem for the paper industry, which globally generates more than 8 million tons of waste annually. It’s also another welcome addition to our ever-expanding portfolio of green panel options, meeting our clients evolving preferences and offering them a greater degree of choice.” A high-performance material, with a low carbon footprint Unique in its category as Cradle-to-Cradle Silver Certified, the benefits of HONEXT for interior cladding and partitioning go far beyond its upfront sustainable attributes. A high-performance material, it possesses strong thermal conductivity, vapour permeability, and acoustic performance. Exploring these advantages in more detail, HONEXT® Panels are designed to feature better sound absorption properties than traditional building materials, and they are also resistant to moisture and water vapour. The panels also promote better indoor air quality, as they contain no added VOCs and are Material Health Silver Certified. From a fabrication perspective, the lightweight construction panel has a fibrous build-up, therefore it’s extremely easy to work with regular woodworking tools. Furthermore, it’s considerably less dense compared to other fibreboard products used for interior applications and its relative lightness eases the installation process. In short, it’s set to become a green disruptor in the UK’s vibrant commercial architecture scene. Realising HONEXT’s Potential Already specified on a number of projects in Spain and continental Europe, HONEXT’s potential to help deliver sustainable and cost-effective design solutions is increasingly being realised by specifiers. In a recent, high-end retail project, the panels were used to replicate fluted concrete walls when using concrete would have been extremely heavy, highly unsustainable, and very expensive, for use in a commercial unit. Here, the HONEXT sheets were bonded together, deep grooves were made, and then painted, creating a lightweight, sound-absorbing wall that looks identical to fluted concrete. More sustainable and easier-to-work than many other panelling materials, HONEXT is a game-changer, particularly for applications such as retail fit-out, exhibitions, set decoration and staging, as the product can be shaped, painted, bonded, and laminated offering a greater degree of flexibility for architects, designers, specifiers, fabricators and industrials. Demand for HONEXT is also growing in the commercial office sector, where its sound absorption capabilities are being realised by fit-out professionals. In a recent workspace project for Spanish construction firm Construcía, HONEXT panels were specified for suspended ‘sound islands’ and ceilings to improve the interior acoustics. Here, HONEXT met all the client’s requirements for a cradle-to-cradle certified solution, as well as achieving optimal acoustic levels and a comfortable and pleasant working environment. Commenting on the UK and Ireland distribution partnership, Paul Clegg, Chief Executive, says, “Lathams’ longstanding reputation for identifying innovative materials and championing sustainable design made them the natural choice when we were looking for a distribution partner in UK and Ireland. Furthermore, the unrivalled strength of their supply chain also inspired confidence and assured us that there will be no disruption when getting our products to construction and design professionals nationwide. We look forward to working closely with them, not only to promote the benefits of HONEXT for interiors but also to promote a greener, more circular approach to material manufacturing and specification.” HONEXT Boards are made from 100% paper waste and are 100% recyclable. They have a density of 540 kg/m3, are 12 mm in thickness, and dimensions are 1220 x 2440 mm. To find out more about HONEXT and its sustainable building materials click here. The introduction of HONEXT forms part of Latham’s wider Décors campaign, enabling specifiers to discover Latham’s wide range of decorative surfaces and realise the potential for almost any design preference or requirement. For more information on Latham’s and its extensive range of timber, panels and decorative surfaces click here.
Meeting a high standing of quality is essential if we are to create buildings that are fit for purpose. While it’s the responsibility of all parties involved in a project to ensure products are installed correctly, it starts with the manufacturer. Matt Allen, Head of Sales at Sika Building Finishing, outlines how comprehensive technical support and specification guidance will make the difference when it comes to the installation of render products on site. Regardless of the material, the outer skin of any building is its first line of defence and must maintain long-term performance. When it comes to render, ensuring you choose the right solution is key but equally paying close attention to small details will go a long way to ensure the render remains fit for purpose during its lifetime. It’s why the support and knowledge provided by the render manufacturer – from design to application to issuing warranties – will play a huge part in a successful render application. At Sika Building Finishing, we can guide specifiers on that journey and it begins at the design and specification stage. Our dedicated specification managers are on hand from the start to ensure each individual requirement is met, with site support and training being made available through the entire project journey. We will talk you through any challenges, as well provide a full specification and maintenance guide for any Sika building finishing system on offer, whether it is mineral, lime, thin coat or EWI. At specification, we are able to offer a bespoke application depending on the needs that are identified, and this would then link to location, which will vary based on where the project is located in the country. A good render should be capable of providing weather protection that meets the different zones and different exposures across the UK. For example, the southwest is zone four (very severe weather rating) which will largely require 20mm of render. We can also offer bespoke specifications based on location to ensure a client will get the correct thickness of render. Furthermore, our suite of typical construction details covers a range of standard and non-standard substrates and systems. The skills and expertise of the applicator is also very important, which is why their appointment is a crucial consideration. We can support the client by putting people forward who are approved or accredited to use the Parex systems. Failure to employ a skilled professional can lead to building defects due to poor installation and workmanship. We can also be present at kick-off meetings to provide further visibility and support on the rendering journey. In the case of larger projects, we can visit sites every four to six weeks to assess the progress and answer any questions that are required. On completion, we will be there to issue a warranty on the materials that have been applied subject to approval and acceptance. Available from local Business Development Managers, the Sika Parex Housebuilder Pack outlines the “complete” package to customers and specifiers with industry sector experts available to provide unsurpassed levels of free technical advice, specifications and CAD details. If you partner with Sika Building Finishing, we will take any risk away so that the building you have created will get the desired result. Our comprehensive technical support and specification guidance will ensure a quality specification that meets the very highest standards each and every time.
A CHALLENGING roofing project has been successfully completed using a brand new liquid coating system, PermaRoof 500 (P500), developed by leading supplier of innovative building products PermaRoof Commercial, part of PermaGroup. The University of Leeds is the first PermaRoof Commercial client to benefit from the P500 liquid polyurethane overlay – a highly elastomeric waterproofing solution. The project, which was started and completed in June 2022, involved coating approximately 250m2 of the original asphalt roof of the helium recovery suite at the university’s Woodhouse site, due to general weathering causing a number of failures to the roof. Sunny Lotay, national commercial manager at PermaRoof, said: “The P500 system successfully tackled major challenges the roof presented, as there was a high number of plant units and other obstructions, and a complex, uneven surface to contend with. The challenge caused by the increased obstacles meant the liquid coating system was the best choice for the job because of its adaptability to be installed in a single layer with excellent adhesion to all types of surfaces.” PermaRoof Commerical was initially contacted in 2021 by the University of Leed’s technical officer, Chris Wade. Sunny Lotay then undertook a thorough on-site survey, produced a roof condition report and recommended using the P500 system. Sunny also recommended a PermaRoof Registered Installer (PRI) contractor to undertake the works due to the in-depth training received by each PRI member ensuring a guaranteed high-quality installation. The innovative P500 system is a continuous waterproofing membrane that also serves as anti-skid and anti-slip surfacing. Liquid roofing allows for a much better fit within a complex area, and its rapid curing means it is resistant to rain within 30 minutes of application with only one layer applied. Sunny added: “It was fantastic to see the system in use for the first time and I am pleased it provided the ideal solution for our client. The project was completed quickly with minimal issues and the roof now has a life expectancy of 25 years. All roofs should be able to stand the test of weather and time, particularly for important educational and research facilities.” Samuel Moore, managing director at Samuel Moore Roofing, was brought onto the project following a successful collaboration with PermaRoof Commercial previously at the new Hull ICU unit at Hull Hospital. Samuel said: “Following a full roof conditional report and meeting with Sunny and the building developer, Tilbury Douglas, we opted for the P500 liquid system as the best solution for this project. Our installers have undertaken rigorous training to become fully registered and be able to effectively install the system. “We were fully supported by PermaRoof from the outset with Sunny arranging the site surveys,meetings, and keeping us updated every step of the way. Other members of the PermaRoof team ensured delivery was taken care of and that the project ran smoothly. We absolutely loved installing the P500 system – it was so easy to use, and we are already pricing other projects to continue using it.” For more information on PermaRoof Commercial, please visit permaroofcommercial.co.uk or call 01773 608839.
