Talk. Build 's Entries
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A new organisation, the National Construction Training Services (NCTS) has recently launched with the provision of a Centre of Excellence for roofing skills. This unique, nationwide programme will enable roofing contractors to access specialist roofing lead and hard metals training more locally to them. In time this will be extended to all of the construction trades. Working closely with roofing federations, local roof training groups and other key industry stakeholders the NCTS claims it will be able to deliver the highest levels of training to anyone looking to develop their skills or indeed start a career in the roofing industry. This is excellent news and comes at a time when training has a large question mark over it with changes in legislation. With growing emphasis to have professionally assessed NVQ qualified card carrying operatives only on site by 2020, action is needed now to address critical training issues and raise standards across the industry. The NCTS commitment is to ensure all students can develop the confidence and knowledge they need to solidify their future in the construction industry. Offering a hugely flexible curriculum the NCTS is able to tailor courses to individual roofing contractor’s requirements in a location which works for them. Courses are developed to help every level of skill, from beginner to skilled tradesmen and will seek to provide a positive impact on the growing skills shortage facing the UK’s construction sector. By focusing on vocational apprenticeships, upskilling and assessing workers in key areas such as lead, hard metals, copper, zinc, stainless steel and heritage leadwork skills the NCTS is able to ensure a future for the UK’s roofing sector. Applying training in innovative and modern techniques means there is an opportunity for workers to have pride and confidence in the jobs they do. This will help with retention and will attract a new generation of roofers. The NCTS says it is proud to be working towards the goal of ensuring that the sector-wide issue of skills and quality is being answered through their dedication. They recognise that a fully developed training path is essential to fulfilling this goal. With targets for the industry’s annual recruitment requirement of 46,000 operatives by 2018 the need for developing these key training programmes is needed more than ever. NCTS differs because of the importance it is placing not just on new workers but also upskilling to reduce the churn rates and keep workers in the sector. A spokesperson from the NCTS said “The NCTS provides much needed support to the industry and is working closely with federations and employers to support strategic training needs”. The industry is looking for support across a range of priorities that the NCTS is confident it can help to solve. By reducing the skills shortage, increasing access to training, providing nationwide assessment programs and increasing the number of trainers available across the UK the NCTS can ensure that a career in roofing, and the image of the industry, continues to improve. The NCTS believe that roofing is a desirable and highly-skilled job which can lead to a real passion for the work if taught and nurtured correctly. The trainers and support offered by the NCTS can help to nurture these passions and ensure the future of roofing is in safe hands. Sounds good and let’s hope that it works – the industry needs it. Visit: http://www.ncts.org.uk0 Posted by Talk. Build
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By Talk. Build A new organisation, the National Construction Training Services (NCTS) has recently launched with the provision of a Centre of Excellence for roofing skills. This unique, nationwide programme will enable roofing contractors to access specialist roofing lead and hard metals training more locally to them. In time this will be extended to all of the construction trades. Working closely with roofing federations, local roof training groups and other key industry stakeholders the NCTS claims it will be able to deliver the highest levels of training to anyone looking to develop their skills or indeed start a career in the roofing industry. This is excellent news and comes at a time when training has a large question mark over it with changes in legislation. With growing emphasis to have professionally assessed NVQ qualified card carrying operatives only on site by 2020, action is needed now to address critical training issues and raise standards across the industry. The NCTS commitment is to ensure all students can develop the confidence and knowledge they need to solidify their future in the construction industry. Offering a hugely flexible curriculum the NCTS is able to tailor courses to individual roofing contractor’s requirements in a location which works for them. Courses are developed to help every level of skill, from beginner to skilled tradesmen and will seek to provide a positive impact on the growing skills shortage facing the UK’s construction sector. By focusing on vocational apprenticeships, upskilling and assessing workers in key areas such as lead, hard metals, copper, zinc, stainless steel and heritage leadwork skills the NCTS is able to ensure a future for the UK’s roofing sector. Applying training in innovative and modern techniques means there is an opportunity for workers to have pride and confidence in the jobs they do. This will help with retention and will attract a new generation of roofers. The NCTS says it is proud to be working towards the goal of ensuring that the sector-wide issue of skills and quality is being answered through their dedication. They recognise that a fully developed training path is essential to fulfilling this goal. With targets for the industry’s annual recruitment requirement of 46,000 operatives by 2018 the need for developing these key training programmes is needed more than ever. NCTS differs because of the importance it is placing not just on new workers but also upskilling to reduce the churn rates and keep workers in the sector. A spokesperson from the NCTS said “The NCTS provides much needed support to the industry and is working closely with federations and employers to support strategic training needs”. The industry is looking for support across a range of priorities that the NCTS is confident it can help to solve. By reducing the skills shortage, increasing access to training, providing nationwide assessment programs and increasing the number of trainers available across the UK the NCTS can ensure that a career in roofing, and the image of the industry, continues to improve. The NCTS believe that roofing is a desirable and highly-skilled job which can lead to a real passion for the work if taught and nurtured correctly. The trainers and support offered by the NCTS can help to nurture these passions and ensure the future of roofing is in safe hands. Sounds good and let’s hope that it works – the industry needs it. Visit: http://www.ncts.org.ukOct 01, 2017 0 -
It is now possible to go from green concrete to green roof in just three days. There will of course be many who say it cannot be done, but they are being proved wrong by a company that is leading the market with a new kind of waterproofing technology – and it’s confounding the traditionalists. With increasing pressure on building costs and owners strictly enforcing projects to be delivered on time and within budget, any roof waterproofing system that can save almost a calendar month in time and allow other trades to begin work within days of new concrete being laid, has to be welcome. At present it is generally considered that green concrete cannot be waterproofed until around 28 days after installation. The maximum amount of trapped water contained in the concrete has to be allowed to escape for the concrete to cure properly which effectively means that the project can be on hold during that time. So all credit to Proteus Waterproofing, one the fastest growing companies of its kind, for developing such a system - Cold-Melt® - which is making all other waterproof membranes look obsolete. It’s a seamless application consisting of two main waterproofing layers – the first of which can be laid over green concrete after just three days sealing the building while still allowing the concrete to cure and continue drying out in the usual way. The system is so advanced that the first layer is all that is needed to waterproof the building and if the project demands it, then the final layer does not have to be applied until all other trades have completed their work. This is another significant plus as other trades frequently damage membranes leading to costly repairs and delays. Cold-Melt® is not as prone to such damage, is easily repaired and will have an additional finishing waterproof layer as the project progresses. In fact the BBA have certified that the Cold-Melt® system is so tough that it will last for the life time of the building on which it is installed. No one is saying that Cold-Melt® will replace all other types of waterproof membrane – each has its own particular place in the market – but there is no doubt that this is a unique product that is ticking a lot of boxes for building owners and specifiers. As well as the fact that it can be rapidly installed, Cold-Melt® as the name suggests, does not use any naked flame or molten material and because it is virtually odour free, delivers maximum health and safety and minimum disruption. It is manufactured from recycled rubber crumb and other environment friendly materials such as castor oil and other organically grown products to create an elastomeric, cold applied membrane so sustainability also gets the thumbs up. But let’s get back to the beginning – green concrete to green roof in just three days is now a reality. This seems to be a system that is ready for anything and for the moment - there is nothing else like it in the roofing market. Visit: http://proteuswaterproofing.co.uk/0 Posted by Talk. Build
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By Talk. Build It is now possible to go from green concrete to green roof in just three days. There will of course be many who say it cannot be done, but they are being proved wrong by a company that is leading the market with a new kind of waterproofing technology – and it’s confounding the traditionalists. With increasing pressure on building costs and owners strictly enforcing projects to be delivered on time and within budget, any roof waterproofing system that can save almost a calendar month in time and allow other trades to begin work within days of new concrete being laid, has to be welcome. At present it is generally considered that green concrete cannot be waterproofed until around 28 days after installation. The maximum amount of trapped water contained in the concrete has to be allowed to escape for the concrete to cure properly which effectively means that the project can be on hold during that time. So all credit to Proteus Waterproofing, one the fastest growing companies of its kind, for developing such a system - Cold-Melt® - which is making all other waterproof membranes look obsolete. It’s a seamless application consisting of two main waterproofing layers – the first of which can be laid over green concrete after just three days sealing the building while still allowing the concrete to cure and continue drying out in the usual way. The system is so advanced that the first layer is all that is needed to waterproof the building and if the project demands it, then the final layer does not have to be applied until all other trades have completed their work. This is another significant plus as other trades frequently damage membranes leading to costly repairs and delays. Cold-Melt® is not as prone to such damage, is easily repaired and will have an additional finishing waterproof layer as the project progresses. In fact the BBA have certified that the Cold-Melt® system is so tough that it will last for the life time of the building on which it is installed. No one is saying that Cold-Melt® will replace all other types of waterproof membrane – each has its own particular place in the market – but there is no doubt that this is a unique product that is ticking a lot of boxes for building owners and specifiers. As well as the fact that it can be rapidly installed, Cold-Melt® as the name suggests, does not use any naked flame or molten material and because it is virtually odour free, delivers maximum health and safety and minimum disruption. It is manufactured from recycled rubber crumb and other environment friendly materials such as castor oil and other organically grown products to create an elastomeric, cold applied membrane so sustainability also gets the thumbs up. But let’s get back to the beginning – green concrete to green roof in just three days is now a reality. This seems to be a system that is ready for anything and for the moment - there is nothing else like it in the roofing market. Visit: http://proteuswaterproofing.co.uk/Sep 18, 2017 0
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The National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) should be congratulated for their latest initiative to raise the profile of the workforce and improve standards. Chief executive James Talman has set out three objectives which he believes are needed to take the industry forward in what he calls “The Roofing Sector Workforce Development Strategy.” These are to: Establish roofing as a professional, modern respected and aspirational sector with clear career paths; able to attract the best and brightest apprentices, students and new works. Formalise and standardise a higher UK-wide training, accreditation and assessment infrastructure, to upskill and multi-skill its growing work force. Proactive engagement with all roofing sector companies, suppliers and trade associations and seeking endorsement and commitment from all procurement stakeholders; enabling growth increased training and access to grants and higher standards. In all the excitement it would be easy to forget that there is one key sector within roofing that successfully went down this path many years ago – and that would be the mastic asphalt industry. Most of the major contractors within mastic asphalt, via its trade association MAC, have successfully encouraged and supported apprenticeships for many years. All operatives have to have some three years of training before they reach the required craft skills - backed by CITB-approved training schemes, to a minimum of NVQ Level 2 and, ideally, to NVQ Level 3. It has resulted in the most highly trained workforce within roofing which has enabled the industry to support some of the most comprehensive guarantee schemes and warranties – knowing that it has a proven product that can only be installed by the very best. Until now there have been few other areas within roofing that offer the same high standards and support for building owners, architects and all other construction professionals, so it can only be hoped that James Talman will succeed with his new initiative. MAC successfully gives accreditation to all its members and over the years the NFRC has also ensured that it attracts the best operatives, but it only has around 1,000 members and these already represent the cream of the industry. Proof that the scheme will work will only be seen when this initiative goes out to a wider audience. We still have many thousands of so called “ladder and bucket” roofers which are traditionally hard to reach with any new message. We have even more general builders who call themselves roofing contractors when a potential job is in the offing – so it will be intriguing to see how the strategy will work in these areas. The rest of Europe does things slightly differently and roofing is seen for the highly skilled job it really is so I hope that this initiative will succeed at every level and root out the cowboys and make it impossible for them to operate. I fear that this is still a long way off – but you have to start somewhere – so all power to the NFRC. By John Ridgeway Follow me on Twitter @JohnRidgeway990 Posted by Talk. Build
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By Talk. Build The National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) should be congratulated for their latest initiative to raise the profile of the workforce and improve standards. Chief executive James Talman has set out three objectives which he believes are needed to take the industry forward in what he calls “The Roofing Sector Workforce Development Strategy.” These are to: Establish roofing as a professional, modern respected and aspirational sector with clear career paths; able to attract the best and brightest apprentices, students and new works. Formalise and standardise a higher UK-wide training, accreditation and assessment infrastructure, to upskill and multi-skill its growing work force. Proactive engagement with all roofing sector companies, suppliers and trade associations and seeking endorsement and commitment from all procurement stakeholders; enabling growth increased training and access to grants and higher standards. In all the excitement it would be easy to forget that there is one key sector within roofing that successfully went down this path many years ago – and that would be the mastic asphalt industry. Most of the major contractors within mastic asphalt, via its trade association MAC, have successfully encouraged and supported apprenticeships for many years. All operatives have to have some three years of training before they reach the required craft skills - backed by CITB-approved training schemes, to a minimum of NVQ Level 2 and, ideally, to NVQ Level 3. It has resulted in the most highly trained workforce within roofing which has enabled the industry to support some of the most comprehensive guarantee schemes and warranties – knowing that it has a proven product that can only be installed by the very best. Until now there have been few other areas within roofing that offer the same high standards and support for building owners, architects and all other construction professionals, so it can only be hoped that James Talman will succeed with his new initiative. MAC successfully gives accreditation to all its members and over the years the NFRC has also ensured that it attracts the best operatives, but it only has around 1,000 members and these already represent the cream of the industry. Proof that the scheme will work will only be seen when this initiative goes out to a wider audience. We still have many thousands of so called “ladder and bucket” roofers which are traditionally hard to reach with any new message. We have even more general builders who call themselves roofing contractors when a potential job is in the offing – so it will be intriguing to see how the strategy will work in these areas. The rest of Europe does things slightly differently and roofing is seen for the highly skilled job it really is so I hope that this initiative will succeed at every level and root out the cowboys and make it impossible for them to operate. I fear that this is still a long way off – but you have to start somewhere – so all power to the NFRC. By John Ridgeway Follow me on Twitter @JohnRidgeway99Sep 01, 2017 0
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Building owners have become increasingly nervous in recent years about sanctioning the use of any kind of naked flame at roof level, traditionally a long standing method of applying waterproof membranes. This has resulted from increased pressure from insurance companies concerned about fire risk and some have banned the use completely of naked flame at roof level following several high profile incidents. The industry has responded with a huge range of cold applied membranes – some more effective than others – but now there is a new trend which could totally transform the way flat roofs are waterproofed. It is called Cold Melt®, an application registered by Proteus Waterproofing which offers building owners a membrane with all the advantages of the seamless application offered by mastic asphalt and hot melt products – with none of the perceived risks associated with other types of membrane. It must be emphasised that the roofing industry has an exemplary safety record with flame applied membranes and modern torches used for products such as felt significantly reduce the potential for fire risks, but cold melt seems to offer a lot more than a simple health and safety boost. By eliminating the need for heat then Cold Melt can be applied significantly more quickly by helping to reduce labour costs, but more importantly the membrane, according to the BBA (British Board of Agrement) will, when correctly applied will last for literally as long as the building remains standing. That’s quite a claim but when endorsed by the BBA it suggests that roofing membranes are now entering a new era but what is Cold Melt? Let’s look at the Commercial. Cold-Melt® is claimed to incorporate recycled rubber crumb and other organically grown products to create an elastomeric, seamless, cold applied membrane that can be applied to a wide range of substrates including concrete, asphalt and timber. As it exhibits extremely low odour, Cold-Melt® can also be applied in confined working spaces. So it seems there is a new kid on the block with some healthy credentials to back up his performance and if nothing else – it will keep the insurance companies happy. Visit: http://proteuswaterproofing.co.uk0 Posted by Talk. Build
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By Talk. Build Building owners have become increasingly nervous in recent years about sanctioning the use of any kind of naked flame at roof level, traditionally a long standing method of applying waterproof membranes. This has resulted from increased pressure from insurance companies concerned about fire risk and some have banned the use completely of naked flame at roof level following several high profile incidents. The industry has responded with a huge range of cold applied membranes – some more effective than others – but now there is a new trend which could totally transform the way flat roofs are waterproofed. It is called Cold Melt®, an application registered by Proteus Waterproofing which offers building owners a membrane with all the advantages of the seamless application offered by mastic asphalt and hot melt products – with none of the perceived risks associated with other types of membrane. It must be emphasised that the roofing industry has an exemplary safety record with flame applied membranes and modern torches used for products such as felt significantly reduce the potential for fire risks, but cold melt seems to offer a lot more than a simple health and safety boost. By eliminating the need for heat then Cold Melt can be applied significantly more quickly by helping to reduce labour costs, but more importantly the membrane, according to the BBA (British Board of Agrement) will, when correctly applied will last for literally as long as the building remains standing. That’s quite a claim but when endorsed by the BBA it suggests that roofing membranes are now entering a new era but what is Cold Melt? Let’s look at the Commercial. Cold-Melt® is claimed to incorporate recycled rubber crumb and other organically grown products to create an elastomeric, seamless, cold applied membrane that can be applied to a wide range of substrates including concrete, asphalt and timber. As it exhibits extremely low odour, Cold-Melt® can also be applied in confined working spaces. So it seems there is a new kid on the block with some healthy credentials to back up his performance and if nothing else – it will keep the insurance companies happy. Visit: http://proteuswaterproofing.co.ukAug 28, 2017 0
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Flat roofing repairs, particularly in confined spaces, have long been known to cause discomfort to operatives and those living or working nearby. Fumes, odours and vapours can cause headaches, dizziness, nausea and lung irritation. They may also irritate the skin, eyes, nose and throat. These effects are usually mild and temporary. Although contractors and building occupants may experience short term problems, the fumes and vapours generally do not pose a health hazard and symptoms usually resolve within hours after exposure to the odour has ended. Most of the problems from fumes seem to relate to asphalt which contains many chemicals and studies, mostly US based, have reported that these have potential long term risks for operatives. Because of this some commentators are suggesting that this could be the beginning of the end for bitumen based products. Manufacturers of roofing materials have known about the problem for many years and have sought to develop more user friendly waterproofing system – and now it seems there has been a breakthrough which could see an end to high levels of discomfort caused by fumes and other noxious vapours. Companies such as Proteus Waterproofing are leading the way with new Cold Melt systems which are high in solids such as recycled rubber crumb and other organically grown products making them virtually fume free and totally odourless. It would also seem that quality and longevity have not been compromised as the new systems, which are PUR based, are claimed to last for the life of the building when correctly installed to the manufacturer’s specification. Nevertheless, bitumen based waterproof membranes still account for the lion’s share of the flat roofing market and we are unlikely to see a major shift to new materials in the near future. But there is clearly a detectable trend towards greener roofs which would suggest the PUR technology, although part chemical based, probably offers a good long term solution for flat roofing projects particularly in confined areas. Cold Melt system are likely to increasingly dominate the market as more is known about potential health issues, but it is probably a little too early yet to say goodbye to bitumen – but it could be the start. Visit: http://proteuswaterproofing.co.uk/product/cold-melt/0 Posted by Talk. Build
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By Talk. Build Flat roofing repairs, particularly in confined spaces, have long been known to cause discomfort to operatives and those living or working nearby. Fumes, odours and vapours can cause headaches, dizziness, nausea and lung irritation. They may also irritate the skin, eyes, nose and throat. These effects are usually mild and temporary. Although contractors and building occupants may experience short term problems, the fumes and vapours generally do not pose a health hazard and symptoms usually resolve within hours after exposure to the odour has ended. Most of the problems from fumes seem to relate to asphalt which contains many chemicals and studies, mostly US based, have reported that these have potential long term risks for operatives. Because of this some commentators are suggesting that this could be the beginning of the end for bitumen based products. Manufacturers of roofing materials have known about the problem for many years and have sought to develop more user friendly waterproofing system – and now it seems there has been a breakthrough which could see an end to high levels of discomfort caused by fumes and other noxious vapours. Companies such as Proteus Waterproofing are leading the way with new Cold Melt systems which are high in solids such as recycled rubber crumb and other organically grown products making them virtually fume free and totally odourless. It would also seem that quality and longevity have not been compromised as the new systems, which are PUR based, are claimed to last for the life of the building when correctly installed to the manufacturer’s specification. Nevertheless, bitumen based waterproof membranes still account for the lion’s share of the flat roofing market and we are unlikely to see a major shift to new materials in the near future. But there is clearly a detectable trend towards greener roofs which would suggest the PUR technology, although part chemical based, probably offers a good long term solution for flat roofing projects particularly in confined areas. Cold Melt system are likely to increasingly dominate the market as more is known about potential health issues, but it is probably a little too early yet to say goodbye to bitumen – but it could be the start. Visit: http://proteuswaterproofing.co.uk/product/cold-melt/Aug 20, 2017 0
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Green roofs have long been a popular specification across Europe but are still relatively new to many in the UK construction industry. Our capital city sets the standard with more than 700 green roofs in Central London alone, but isn’t it time the rest of the country caught up and moved the concept of green roofs into mainstream consideration on all urban projects? Everybody knows that space is at a premium in our cities, with the cost of land forcing developers to build upwards and refurbishments now responsible for 40% of the construction market. And with the increasingly adverse effects of global warming, environmentally conscious clients and stringent building regulations, specifiers and contractors are looking to make their buildings as harmless, and where practical as beneficial, to the environment as possible. A popular and viable solution to the growing problems of urban heat island effect, stormwater runoff, air pollution and loss of outdoor spaces,vegetated roofs, terraces and gardens must now become a mainstream ecological construction method. Without using costly or unproven technologies, they can provide a simple way to reduce energy costs and offset the environmental impacts of construction practices with a previously unused space. The thing about roofs is that they provide space that can be utilised for the benefit of both the building and the planet. It is no longer just somewhere to stick unsightly plant and equipment; it is an area which can: reduce flooding risks, save energy, create energy, clean the air around us and provide bio-diverse habitats which will indeed benefit us all. Green roofs will also make financial sense as one of the many benefits is the fact that the life of the roof is extended. A green roof improves the thermal behaviour of the building by acting as an insulate, helping to keep the cold out in the winter and the heat out in the summer. This lowers the stresses on the roof structure as a whole and the waterproofing in particular. It is also physically protecting the waterproofing layer from damage. It can also result in the lowering of heating and air conditioning costs. So with all these benefits, why is the UK playing catch up with the rest of the world when it comes to green roofs? In reality, it probably isn’t. With over 700 already, London actually has more green roofs than most cities in Europe and the USA. But that’s only the start. With the UK’s population still on the increase and house prices back on the up, it’s highly likely that for the roofing market – the future’s green. Visit: http://www.icb.uk.com/0 Posted by Talk. Build
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By Talk. Build Green roofs have long been a popular specification across Europe but are still relatively new to many in the UK construction industry. Our capital city sets the standard with more than 700 green roofs in Central London alone, but isn’t it time the rest of the country caught up and moved the concept of green roofs into mainstream consideration on all urban projects? Everybody knows that space is at a premium in our cities, with the cost of land forcing developers to build upwards and refurbishments now responsible for 40% of the construction market. And with the increasingly adverse effects of global warming, environmentally conscious clients and stringent building regulations, specifiers and contractors are looking to make their buildings as harmless, and where practical as beneficial, to the environment as possible. A popular and viable solution to the growing problems of urban heat island effect, stormwater runoff, air pollution and loss of outdoor spaces,vegetated roofs, terraces and gardens must now become a mainstream ecological construction method. Without using costly or unproven technologies, they can provide a simple way to reduce energy costs and offset the environmental impacts of construction practices with a previously unused space. The thing about roofs is that they provide space that can be utilised for the benefit of both the building and the planet. It is no longer just somewhere to stick unsightly plant and equipment; it is an area which can: reduce flooding risks, save energy, create energy, clean the air around us and provide bio-diverse habitats which will indeed benefit us all. Green roofs will also make financial sense as one of the many benefits is the fact that the life of the roof is extended. A green roof improves the thermal behaviour of the building by acting as an insulate, helping to keep the cold out in the winter and the heat out in the summer. This lowers the stresses on the roof structure as a whole and the waterproofing in particular. It is also physically protecting the waterproofing layer from damage. It can also result in the lowering of heating and air conditioning costs. So with all these benefits, why is the UK playing catch up with the rest of the world when it comes to green roofs? In reality, it probably isn’t. With over 700 already, London actually has more green roofs than most cities in Europe and the USA. But that’s only the start. With the UK’s population still on the increase and house prices back on the up, it’s highly likely that for the roofing market – the future’s green. Visit: http://www.icb.uk.com/Jul 27, 2017 0
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Assurances given in terms to the longevity of single ply products are not always as black and white as they first appear. This is because while the majority of manufacturers can produce statements of their products’ life expectancies or design lives via accelerated testing, it is sometimes the case that these timescales are longer than the time a manufacturer has actually been operating in the UK. For some this situation may be acceptable. Others require ‘real’ evidence of performance when choosing the right roofing product as they recognise that a roof is the most important element in securing a building’s long-term endurance. We’re fortunate that we can show a client, architect or surveyor that what has been tested in theory has also been proven and confirmed in reality. Trocal entered the UK market in 1972 but the company’s history prior to this point and its connection to one of the most infamous inventors of the 19th Century still remains relatively unknown by many of our UK customers. Trocal can be traced back to Alfred Nobel, who founded Alfred Nobel & Co (later known as Dynamit Nobel AG), a chemical company involved in the production of weaponry in Troisdorf, Germany, 1865. Nobel’s place in history was secured through the invention of Dynamite in 1867 and the establishment of the Nobel Peace Prize some 30 years later – which occurred despite the apparent contradiction in terms! After the First World War, the company turned its attention to chemical-based products involving ‘plastics', with the first fully synthetic plastic launched in 1934. In 1962 the first Trocal single ply roofing membrane was launched and this would be the springboard to the UK in the early 70s and achieving its first BBA certificate in 1975. In 1979 Trocal went onto be the founding member of the Flat Roofing Association (FRA) which would later become todays governing body for the single ply industry, the Single Ply Roofing Association (SPRA). In late 2015, in Trocal’s 43rd year in business in the UK, we decided to improve our British Board of Agrément certification statement on the life expectancy of our membranes, which at the time stood at 30 years. We set ourselves the goal of increasing this to “in excess of 35 years” but to do so we needed to provide a sample of an existing Trocal membrane that could perform to this requirement. Thankfully, Sika-Trocal has been a leading supplier of Single Ply and have had millions of m2 installed over the years and one client, Fossil (UK) Ltd, had a Trocal membrane installed on their headquarters in Milton Keynes in 1981, which had enjoyed 35 reliable, trouble free years. The sample provided of the existing membrane demonstrated very similar flexibility and constitution performance to a brand new membrane and this helped Sika-Trocal have its membrane life span extended to “in excess of 35 years” by the BBA. And the rest they say is history. By Andy Lockwood, Area Technical Manager at Sika-Trocal0 Posted by Talk. Build
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By Talk. Build Assurances given in terms to the longevity of single ply products are not always as black and white as they first appear. This is because while the majority of manufacturers can produce statements of their products’ life expectancies or design lives via accelerated testing, it is sometimes the case that these timescales are longer than the time a manufacturer has actually been operating in the UK. For some this situation may be acceptable. Others require ‘real’ evidence of performance when choosing the right roofing product as they recognise that a roof is the most important element in securing a building’s long-term endurance. We’re fortunate that we can show a client, architect or surveyor that what has been tested in theory has also been proven and confirmed in reality. Trocal entered the UK market in 1972 but the company’s history prior to this point and its connection to one of the most infamous inventors of the 19th Century still remains relatively unknown by many of our UK customers. Trocal can be traced back to Alfred Nobel, who founded Alfred Nobel & Co (later known as Dynamit Nobel AG), a chemical company involved in the production of weaponry in Troisdorf, Germany, 1865. Nobel’s place in history was secured through the invention of Dynamite in 1867 and the establishment of the Nobel Peace Prize some 30 years later – which occurred despite the apparent contradiction in terms! After the First World War, the company turned its attention to chemical-based products involving ‘plastics', with the first fully synthetic plastic launched in 1934. In 1962 the first Trocal single ply roofing membrane was launched and this would be the springboard to the UK in the early 70s and achieving its first BBA certificate in 1975. In 1979 Trocal went onto be the founding member of the Flat Roofing Association (FRA) which would later become todays governing body for the single ply industry, the Single Ply Roofing Association (SPRA). In late 2015, in Trocal’s 43rd year in business in the UK, we decided to improve our British Board of Agrément certification statement on the life expectancy of our membranes, which at the time stood at 30 years. We set ourselves the goal of increasing this to “in excess of 35 years” but to do so we needed to provide a sample of an existing Trocal membrane that could perform to this requirement. Thankfully, Sika-Trocal has been a leading supplier of Single Ply and have had millions of m2 installed over the years and one client, Fossil (UK) Ltd, had a Trocal membrane installed on their headquarters in Milton Keynes in 1981, which had enjoyed 35 reliable, trouble free years. The sample provided of the existing membrane demonstrated very similar flexibility and constitution performance to a brand new membrane and this helped Sika-Trocal have its membrane life span extended to “in excess of 35 years” by the BBA. And the rest they say is history. By Andy Lockwood, Area Technical Manager at Sika-TrocalJul 11, 2017 0
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Whether it’s wind, rain or snow, sun or frost, a roof is on the front-line each and every day, therefore it pays to choose a waterproofing material which can withstand whatever Mother Nature throws at it. The toughest, most durable waterproofing membrane and one that will withstand our increasingly destructive weather in the long-term, is mastic asphalt. Roofs across the UK are exposed to the elements and temperatures from a sizzling 38ºC in summertime all the way down to a shivering and mind-numbing -27ºC in midwinter. Roofing materials have to be tough enough to cope with this wide temperature swing, otherwise they will degrade and ultimately fail. Wind will also give roofs a beating, especially taller structures or those buildings which have more exposed roofing surfaces such as the World War 1 Thiepval memorial which has always been protected by Mastic Asphalt. Vibrations caused by wind can lead to material fatigue and crack formation. Hail and snow are another pair of heavy-hitters and can also cause mechanical roof damage, while freeze/thaw cycles are an environmental stress for many roofing materials. Water expands when it freezes and can therefore enlarge cracks. If you want a roof that will last, then it pays to use mastic asphalt. It is highly resistant to all types of weather and attacks from thermal shock caused by rapid temperature changes, which are a frequent source of breakdown in many other types of membrane. Providing such excellent wear against the extremes of weather – and with a life expectancy of 50 years and more - the waterproof membrane is fast becoming the material of choice for a manner of different buildings including, schools, offices, shopping centres, hotels and even churches. The traditional material comprising of limestone and bitumen, with the addition of modern polymers, is robust enough to withstand severe and fluctuating weather and is both non-toxic and non-flammable. Its durability of use is one of its major benefits, with no application too tricky. Mastic asphalt has one further advantage over other types of waterproof membrane – it is carbon neutral – a massive bonus for any building owner anxious to show their green credentials and, when it has reached the end of its useful life, it can be recycled or used as roof screed, minimising the impact on the environment. Highly cost-effective, mastic asphalt offers lower installation costs than many other types of membranes. Its versatility makes it the ideal choice for not only flat roofing, but also flooring and paving. It is also extensively used on bridges, car parks and other types of structural decks. Vist: http://www.masticasphaltcouncil.co.uk/0 Posted by Talk. Build
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By Talk. Build Whether it’s wind, rain or snow, sun or frost, a roof is on the front-line each and every day, therefore it pays to choose a waterproofing material which can withstand whatever Mother Nature throws at it. The toughest, most durable waterproofing membrane and one that will withstand our increasingly destructive weather in the long-term, is mastic asphalt. Roofs across the UK are exposed to the elements and temperatures from a sizzling 38ºC in summertime all the way down to a shivering and mind-numbing -27ºC in midwinter. Roofing materials have to be tough enough to cope with this wide temperature swing, otherwise they will degrade and ultimately fail. Wind will also give roofs a beating, especially taller structures or those buildings which have more exposed roofing surfaces such as the World War 1 Thiepval memorial which has always been protected by Mastic Asphalt. Vibrations caused by wind can lead to material fatigue and crack formation. Hail and snow are another pair of heavy-hitters and can also cause mechanical roof damage, while freeze/thaw cycles are an environmental stress for many roofing materials. Water expands when it freezes and can therefore enlarge cracks. If you want a roof that will last, then it pays to use mastic asphalt. It is highly resistant to all types of weather and attacks from thermal shock caused by rapid temperature changes, which are a frequent source of breakdown in many other types of membrane. Providing such excellent wear against the extremes of weather – and with a life expectancy of 50 years and more - the waterproof membrane is fast becoming the material of choice for a manner of different buildings including, schools, offices, shopping centres, hotels and even churches. The traditional material comprising of limestone and bitumen, with the addition of modern polymers, is robust enough to withstand severe and fluctuating weather and is both non-toxic and non-flammable. Its durability of use is one of its major benefits, with no application too tricky. Mastic asphalt has one further advantage over other types of waterproof membrane – it is carbon neutral – a massive bonus for any building owner anxious to show their green credentials and, when it has reached the end of its useful life, it can be recycled or used as roof screed, minimising the impact on the environment. Highly cost-effective, mastic asphalt offers lower installation costs than many other types of membranes. Its versatility makes it the ideal choice for not only flat roofing, but also flooring and paving. It is also extensively used on bridges, car parks and other types of structural decks. Vist: http://www.masticasphaltcouncil.co.uk/Jul 06, 2017 0
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In the construction industry, time is seldom on a contractor’s side. To complete a new-build or refurbishment project to an agreed deadline requires a lot of things to fall their way. The weather needs to behave; other trades need to finish their part of the programme before the roofer can begin; the client or architect needs to have confidence in the original design and not have a mid-project change of heart. Special bond With so many variables to contend with, it’s no wonder products which guarantee a fast, reliable application have become something of a Holy Grail for contractors within the construction industry. Sika-Trocal C400 spray-applied adhesive is helping reduce adhered roof installation times. It’s not only twice as fast to use than traditional methods, which involve applying high solvent content mixtures to a substrate with a squeegee, with Sika-Trocal C400 the easy spray application via a canister means it’s less labour intensive, and reduces wear-and-tear on the operative. In C400’s case, quality hasn’t been sacrificed for speed as the adhesion is assured and has been proven by rigorous lab and on site testing. Sika Limited does not bring these products to market until they have passed the highest testing benchmarks. So bonding Sika-Trocal SGK, fleece backed membrane could not be any easier. As well as being time and cost-effective, C400 spray-applied adhesive is kinder to the environment. It contains fewer solvents than poured-applied adhesives and creates less material waste. With poured-applied solutions, a residual amount of substance invariably remains and needs to be disposed of as hazardous waste, which costs time and money. Once used, a canister used in C400 applications can be decommissioned as scrap metal, making the packaging recyclable. Benefits of Sika-Trocal C400 spray-applied adhesive Works twice as fast as other adhesive methods Less labour intensive and reduces operative wear-and-tear Contains fewer solvents than other adhesive solutions Incurs less waste material – application canisters are recyclable Stress-free adhesion There is a perception within the roofing industry that adhered systems are not as quick to install as mechanically-fixed ones. C400 will do much to dispel that notion, because the truth is, bonded membranes are as quick to fit as the mechanical alternative. Also because C400 is a contact adhesive it also means installers can now bond vertically, providing a flexible option for the installation of upstands. C400 has been received warmly by the Licensed Trocal Roofing Contractors who have used it – for reasons already outlined – following its use on several Trocal roofing projects across the UK. Contractors have also been impressed by the robustness of the spray tooling. Sika Trocal C400 Spray has removed one less stress from the installer, and its speedy application will solve at least one of the many time-related issues faced by today’s Trocal roofing contractors. By Dean Grady, Product Manager at Sika0 Posted by Talk. Build
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By Talk. Build In the construction industry, time is seldom on a contractor’s side. To complete a new-build or refurbishment project to an agreed deadline requires a lot of things to fall their way. The weather needs to behave; other trades need to finish their part of the programme before the roofer can begin; the client or architect needs to have confidence in the original design and not have a mid-project change of heart. Special bond With so many variables to contend with, it’s no wonder products which guarantee a fast, reliable application have become something of a Holy Grail for contractors within the construction industry. Sika-Trocal C400 spray-applied adhesive is helping reduce adhered roof installation times. It’s not only twice as fast to use than traditional methods, which involve applying high solvent content mixtures to a substrate with a squeegee, with Sika-Trocal C400 the easy spray application via a canister means it’s less labour intensive, and reduces wear-and-tear on the operative. In C400’s case, quality hasn’t been sacrificed for speed as the adhesion is assured and has been proven by rigorous lab and on site testing. Sika Limited does not bring these products to market until they have passed the highest testing benchmarks. So bonding Sika-Trocal SGK, fleece backed membrane could not be any easier. As well as being time and cost-effective, C400 spray-applied adhesive is kinder to the environment. It contains fewer solvents than poured-applied adhesives and creates less material waste. With poured-applied solutions, a residual amount of substance invariably remains and needs to be disposed of as hazardous waste, which costs time and money. Once used, a canister used in C400 applications can be decommissioned as scrap metal, making the packaging recyclable. Benefits of Sika-Trocal C400 spray-applied adhesive Works twice as fast as other adhesive methods Less labour intensive and reduces operative wear-and-tear Contains fewer solvents than other adhesive solutions Incurs less waste material – application canisters are recyclable Stress-free adhesion There is a perception within the roofing industry that adhered systems are not as quick to install as mechanically-fixed ones. C400 will do much to dispel that notion, because the truth is, bonded membranes are as quick to fit as the mechanical alternative. Also because C400 is a contact adhesive it also means installers can now bond vertically, providing a flexible option for the installation of upstands. C400 has been received warmly by the Licensed Trocal Roofing Contractors who have used it – for reasons already outlined – following its use on several Trocal roofing projects across the UK. Contractors have also been impressed by the robustness of the spray tooling. Sika Trocal C400 Spray has removed one less stress from the installer, and its speedy application will solve at least one of the many time-related issues faced by today’s Trocal roofing contractors. By Dean Grady, Product Manager at SikaJul 04, 2017 0
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Britain’s schools are coming under increasing pressure to provide more places for our growing population. This in turn means that valuable green space for children to play is being sacrificed or compromised to build more classrooms. There is no doubt that children must have somewhere to let off steam and thankfully it seems the answer is not too far away as planners look increasingly towards the sky – or to be more precise – the roofs of school buildings. For those already working out the potential health and safety issues of children playing on the tops of school buildings then be assured that this is an idea that is working well on schools and public buildings across the world. With such a shortage of space it has to make sense to make full use of an unused school roof – assuming of course that proper safety fencing and supervision are in place. It also brings new meaning to so called green roofs which are becoming increasingly popular in the UK but have been mostly designed with aesthetics in mind, such as a pleasant garden outlook, as opposed to providing something practical for our children to use – particularly in inner city areas where space is at a premium. Specialist Designer and installer of playgrounds, PlayCubed say there is nothing to prevent equipment from being installed on a roof and it has to make more sense as schools battle with space issues. The design challenges of putting a playground on a roof are similar to those at ground level. It would seem then that all we need are few adventurous architects willing to take the plunge. There is evidence to suggest that this is happening but town planners are still a little cautious. Birmingham Councillors have recently turned down such a plan for an inner city school – but if they had consulted with neighbours in Holland and Germany they would have discovered that there is little to fear. Time will probably ensure that rooftop playgrounds will soon be the norm. Even though 90,000 additional primary places were created last year, a further 130,000 are needed in the next three years. The shortage of places is felt acutely in London, and one borough that has felt the crush is Tower Hamlets where the population soared by 26% during the decade spanning 2001 to 2011. The area has seen the largest increase in population of any local authority in England and Wales. All these children need somewhere to play and if there is nothing at ground level – then the only way is up. To know more click www.playcubed.co.uk0 Posted by Talk. Build
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By Talk. Build Britain’s schools are coming under increasing pressure to provide more places for our growing population. This in turn means that valuable green space for children to play is being sacrificed or compromised to build more classrooms. There is no doubt that children must have somewhere to let off steam and thankfully it seems the answer is not too far away as planners look increasingly towards the sky – or to be more precise – the roofs of school buildings. For those already working out the potential health and safety issues of children playing on the tops of school buildings then be assured that this is an idea that is working well on schools and public buildings across the world. With such a shortage of space it has to make sense to make full use of an unused school roof – assuming of course that proper safety fencing and supervision are in place. It also brings new meaning to so called green roofs which are becoming increasingly popular in the UK but have been mostly designed with aesthetics in mind, such as a pleasant garden outlook, as opposed to providing something practical for our children to use – particularly in inner city areas where space is at a premium. Specialist Designer and installer of playgrounds, PlayCubed say there is nothing to prevent equipment from being installed on a roof and it has to make more sense as schools battle with space issues. The design challenges of putting a playground on a roof are similar to those at ground level. It would seem then that all we need are few adventurous architects willing to take the plunge. There is evidence to suggest that this is happening but town planners are still a little cautious. Birmingham Councillors have recently turned down such a plan for an inner city school – but if they had consulted with neighbours in Holland and Germany they would have discovered that there is little to fear. Time will probably ensure that rooftop playgrounds will soon be the norm. Even though 90,000 additional primary places were created last year, a further 130,000 are needed in the next three years. The shortage of places is felt acutely in London, and one borough that has felt the crush is Tower Hamlets where the population soared by 26% during the decade spanning 2001 to 2011. The area has seen the largest increase in population of any local authority in England and Wales. All these children need somewhere to play and if there is nothing at ground level – then the only way is up. To know more click www.playcubed.co.ukAug 31, 2016 0
