Putting fans firmly at the top of Accrington Stanley FC’s fixture list with Canopies UK

As part of its on-going extensive redevelopment programme, Accrington Stanley Football Club enlisted the support of leading canopy manufacturer, Canopies UK, for the creation of a brand new European-style fan zone.

The club has recently unveiled a raft of measures aimed at transforming almost every element of its grounds, which includes the creation of a new 1,500 capacity all-seater stand. The work will also see a new pitch being laid and new fencing and walls being installed to create space for additional perimeter advertising boards.

Providing fans with a pre and post-match base

As a community club, Accrington Stanley wanted to develop space behind the home supporters’ stand to create a dedicated outdoor zone specifically for its fans.

“They wanted to provide their supporters with an outdoor area where they can gather and socialise with each other, as well as enjoy something to eat and drink before and after matches,” explains, Ryan Powell, Commercial Area Sales Manager at Canopies UK.

“The club felt that canopies would be the ideal solution, as they would not only provide all-year-round shelter, but create an eye-catching focal point that would really add character and flair to the overall look and feel of the fan zone.”

Canopies UK specified two of its ground-mounted Connekt umbrella-style canopies for several reasons including the fact they would be large enough to cover the standing area within the fan zone. Each spanning five meters, the canopies were of the right dimensions to shelter 25m2 floor space.

Delivering the project with no extra time

With the start of football season looming, Canopies UK had to ensure the canopies were designed, manufactured and installed in record time.

There were just four weeks between initial contact and the new season getting underway, which involved Canopies UK pulling out all of the stops to deliver the project within the tight timescale.

“We effectively had to deliver a project that would typically take around eight weeks, in half the time and still maintain the highest possible standards,” added Ryan.

“However, due to the fact that we were local and are always keen to help the local community whenever we can, we relished the challenge and managed to install the canopies with a week to spare.”

Proactivity, organisation and flexibility were pivotal to Canopies UK being able to turn the installation around in record time.

The club was provided with an official quote on the same day as Canopies UK first visiting the site, and an official order just two days later. As a result of being given prior warning, Canopies UK’s operations manager was able to conduct the site survey one day after the official order had been submitted.

The project was then planned into Canopies UK’s production schedule by reallocating other jobs, while the umbrellas were manufactured in two and-a-half weeks and installed in a day.

Canopies that are engineered for purpose

Canopies UK engineers each of its canopies in accordance with site-specific calculations. Conducted by Canopies UK’s technical surveyor, the calculations encompassed a number of technical on-site measurements, including wind speed, obstructions such as drainage systems, nearby trees and roots, as well as the terrain in which the foundations would sit.

In addition to ensuring the canopies delivered from a practical perspective, it was essential they also delivered on an aesthetic level too.

Using its bespoke colour matching service, Canopies UK customised the Connekt canopies with the club’s colours. Alternating colours of red and white were used on the roof support beams to create a unique and tailored canopy installation in keeping with the club’s traditional strip.

David Burgess, Chief Executive at Accrington Stanley Football Club, said: “We’re absolutely delighted with the canopies, they’ve really brought the fan zone to life from both a practical and aesthetic perspective.

“Not only will they provide our fans with the shelter and shade they need from the elements before, and during games, they’re in our club colours, which gives the overall area a real sense of identity. They’re the perfect finishing touch for our fan zone and have been produced to the highest standard.”

For more information, contact Karen Hornby on 01254 777 002 (extension 221) or email karen@canopiesuk.co.uk. Alternatively, further details can be found at www.canopiesuk.co.uk.
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RWC UK launches new TIU CPD

Reliance Worldwide Corporation (UK) Ltd (RWC UK), the leading manufacturer of water control systems and plumbing solutions, has launched a new CPD seminar focusing on the use of Thermal Interface Units (TIUs), approved by three professional bodies.

The new seminar ‘Understanding the use of Thermal Interface Units within Community Heating Networks’ has been specifically developed for consultants, specifiers and architects involved in designing heating and hot water systems in commercial or domestic premises, and is approved by CIBSE, RIBA and The CPD Certification Service.

Lasting around 45 minutes, the session examines how a network with individual property heating and hot water systems might be constructed to take advantage of the latest TIU technology. Delivered by members of RWC UK’s technical and sales teams, the seminar explains the features and benefits of such systems and provides building professionals with advice on key considerations and requirements for specification.

David Craven, Key Account Director at RWC UK, explains: “The specification of TIUs is becoming more popular, especially in the design of multiple-occupancy buildings where their use brings significant benefits. For example, installing TIUs reduces material costs and maintenance thanks to the absence of copper pipework and flues. They also remove the need to conform to Gas Safe or FGAS regulations in each dwelling.

“This is exactly what our new CPD aims to highlight; the simplicity and flexibility of community heating networks and TIUs. The session is also free of charge and for the convenience of our customers, we’ll visit their premises to deliver the presentation.”

In 2015, RWC UK introduced the first major brand of UK designed and manufactured Thermal Interface Units to the market with its Radiance® range, made at the company’s head office in Evesham, Worcestershire. Just this year, the range was recognised by two industry awards, being shortlisted in the H&V News Awards in the Innovative Products category, and receiving the Highly Commended in the Innovative Product of the Year category of the Northern Ireland Plumbing and Heating Awards.

To book the TIU CPD Seminar with RWC UK contact marketing@rwc.co.uk

For more information please visit www.rwc.co.uk.
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Rinnai makes major investment in London and South East with appointment of sales team

Rinnai, the UK’s leading manufacturing supplier of high efficiency continuous flow hot water heating and delivery units, has announced a major investment in London and the South East with the formation of a dedicated sales team covering the whole region.

This major investment follows the opening of a London office also dedicated to serving the region.

The new sales team will work in tandem with the Rinnai UK sales centre and technical support at the company’s Runcorn, Cheshire HQ.

“The new premises have been set up in response to high demand for Rinnai product and expertise. Specifiers and installers in the London area now have a direct line to the Rinnai sales force which is ready to offer advice on the latest technologies and legislation and will be a vehicle to inform the industry of new developments, new technologies and new ways,” says Managing Director Tony Gittings.

The team and their areas are, as follows: Scott Amass will look after North London and the associated Home Counties; Steve Richards will be heading sales in West London and associated Home Counties; Kim Wullf will be looking after South London and their Home Counties. All three have extensive experience and track records in the hot water delivery business.

Rinnai’s comprehensive range of A rated energy efficient products for hot water solutions qualify for additional energy efficiency points, boosting building energy performance. The product range far exceeds energy efficiencies in current Building Regulations (Conservation of fuel and power) and legislation. For owners of existing commercial buildings, the use of Rinnai Infinity condensing and high efficiency water heaters qualifies for extra heating efficiency credits.

For more details on RINNAI products visit www.rinnaiuk.com.
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Young roofers to compete on National stage

From April to July, roofing apprentices from around the UK demonstrated their skills at regional heats to gain a place at this year’s SkillBuild Final, taking place on the 17th-19th November, at NEC Birmingham.

The competition, organised by the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC), saw fifty-five competitors taking part in one of eight heats, which were overseen by three judges, Matt Timby, Simon Dixon and Bob Coutts, who’s vast experience of roofing competitions range from a past SkillBuild winner to a recognised mentor for the international competition: World Championship for Young Roofers.

NFRC are pleased to announce that the following eight young roofers, who secured highest marks from across all the regional heats, will be heading to the final:

  • Andrew Emerton – Emerton Roofing (Western) Ltd
  • Harry Hillam – Thompson – Timby Traditional Roofing
  • Harry Pennock – J Chillingsworth Roofing Contractor
  • Lee Dowding – Dylan Faber Roofing Ltd
  • Liam Watson – West Country Tiling Co.
  • Sam Blount Graham – Barker Roofing Services
  • Tom Knight – Wheeler Roofing Services Limited
  • William Emerton – Emerton Roofing (Western) Ltd

The competition forms a part of the Skills Show, the nation’s largest skills and careers event, giving the competitors and the roofing industry a greater platform in which to showcase roofing.

Looking ahead to the final, Livia Williams, Head of Training for NFRC, said, “We are looking forward to this year’s final, where the best roof slating and tiling apprentices across the UK will be going head to head, to deliver the highest level of skill to claim the Gold Medal and to secure a coveted place in the UK Team for the Young Roofer World competition (IFD).”

“Over the years, NFRC has taken a leading role in organising the national SkillBuild roofing competition and working closely with roofing colleges, employers, Supplier manufacturing members and CITB. We have seen an immense value in encouraging and showcasing our best young talent and creating role models to inspire the next generation.”

“The Skills Show is, therefore, a great opportunity for the roofing industry, with the support from the regional roof training groups, in engaging with Year 11 school leavers, and their parents, in helping to address industry image, recruitment of new entrants and promoting careers in roofing.”

Throughout the heats, and for the final, special thanks must go to the three NFRC Supplier Members who have kindly provided materials; John Brash & Co. Limited, Klober Ltd and Wienerberger Ltd.

We wish all competitors the very best of luck for the final. Those interested in supporting the competitors, and to gain a better understanding of the competition, can book free tickets at www.worldskillsuk.org.

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Kemmlit on Parade

Associated Architects were commissioned to provide a comprehensive refurbishment of 6 East Parade, Leeds, – a six storey, 45,000sq office building in the heart of city centre.
30 Kemmlit Classic Cell floor to ceiling cubicles were specified for the washroom areas.

Classic Cell is a design classic and features 42mm thick smooth surfaced welted doors with special inlays which guarantee a high degree of privacy and noise reduction.

Concealed edges and recessed leg supports produce an elegant yet functional design; its robust construction makes it the ideal choice for all types of washroom applications.
For this project, the architects selected Kemmlit’s innovative high quality aluminium ‘handle bars’ for the systems’ door furniture which house LED vacant/occupied indicators.

Classic Cell is available in a choice of colours including a new solid black crystal coat varnish finish and is part of a wide range of high performance cubicle and locker systems available from Kemmlit UK.

For more information please visit www.kemmlituk.com.
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Cembrit expands its sales team

Cembrit, the leading roofing and cladding specialist, has strengthened its UK sales force, with the appointment of two new regional sales managers. With experience in the roofing sector, Andrew Moore and Richard Evans will join the pitch roofing sales team, selling natural and fibre cement slates in the London and North Wales respectively.

Andrew Moore brings with him over thirty years of construction industry experience, having spent almost three years working with Monier Redland as an Account Manager and ten years with Jewsons as a National Account Manager. This wealth of experience will stand Andrew in good stead to increase Cembrit’s presence in the South East.

“Working for a company that has such a diverse product range is a great opportunity,” says Andrew Moore, Regional Sales Manager, Cembrit. “This vast product range means that Cembrit has a suitable solution for all building types. I look forward to meeting customers to explain the benefits of Cembrit roofing products and supporting them on new and existing projects.”

Richard joins the Cembrit team with over fifteen years of roofing experience. Having worked at Gordon H Richards, Clydesdale Roofing and SIG Roofing Supplies in the past, Richard understands the challenges that merchants and contractors face, and can bring this knowledge to Cembrit, to ensure we continue providing our customers with industry-leading products and services.

“I am excited to join a dynamic and well-established company,” says Richard Evans. “Cembrit has a fantastic range of natural and fibre cement slate products, so I look forward to discussing the benefits of these materials with existing customers and potential new clients. I am confident that I can use my industry knowledge to support the Cembrit team, and strengthen sales in the North Wales region.

For further information visit www.cembrit.co.uk, email sales@cembrit.co.uk or tel: +44 (0)20 8301 8900.
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Flat roof manufacturer Bauder extends BIM library

Following the arrival of the UK government’s BIM mandate back in April, which requires all centrally procured public sector building projects to be BIM Level 2 compliant, flat roof manufacturer Bauder has extended its BIM offering with the creation of 19 new waterproofing system objects that are available now for free download on its website.

The launch of Bauder’s new generic BIM models means its comprehensive library now includes objects for its bituminous, single ply, cold liquid applied, hot melt and green roof system options, which can easily be dropped into 3D models and plans. This allows architects, designers, specifiers and contractors to easily access and share all of the object information needed at the concept and design stage of a project. All of these BIM objects are available in Revit format, which according to NBS’ 2016 National BIM Report is by far the most popular tool used for producing drawings. In order to ensure that your BIM object meets the exact requirements of your building you will need to register your project with Bauder, who can in turn provide you with all the necessary technical support and resources.

Bauder’s Technical Director Nigel Blacklock commented: “A lot of the ideals that BIM is based upon, such as promoting the use of quality, long-lasting materials that deliver life-time value and getting things done properly first time on a project, align with our own principals as a market-leading manufacturer of flat roofing products. As a result, we will continue to invest our time and resources into BIM in order to extend our offering, as we see it as an integral part of the future of the built environment both in the public and private sector.”

For more information on BIM and to download your free objects now visit: www.bauder.co.uk.
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Introducing: the new foldable system from WeatherFAST

WeatherFAST have been supplying a wide range of high performance Fatra PVC membrane steel in sheet or coil form for many years. By constantly innovating and designing quality products for use on commercial and industrial gutter systems, they have earned the reputation of being market leaders within this field and their business has flourished. Joe Bradbury caught up with WeatherFAST’s Managing Director, Orry White to discuss their new product, WeatherFOLD – which offers clients a smart and effective way of re-lining old, leaky valley/boundary wall gutters.

Q) Orry, can you tell us a little bit more about your new foldable system and how people who specify it in their build can expect to benefit?

Certainly! In all honesty, we believe our new folding gutter system is the best looking and performing product on the market. The simplicity and effectiveness of its design should really appeal to architects looking for valley/boundary gutter solutions. The gutters include 3 hinges and come in 3000mm lengths, with widths up to 1250 wide and come complete with a 75mm built-in flap that joins onto the next gutter via a single weld. Due to its unique design, we don’t actually need to know the exact degree of the wings prior to fitting. In our experience this alone reduces installation times by up to 50% and makes our clients’ lives a lot easier overall. Instead of having to go back and forth with information on the existing roof gutter system or having to make costly amendments prior to installation of the new product, our system simply follows the lines of the existing gutters. No fuss.

Q) How big a role do you think a folding gutter system can play in helping a building achieve its maximum potential?

Commercial and industrial building owners are always looking for a gutter solution that is good value, good quality, quick to install and preferably BBA accredited. They want to fit something reliable that they can trust – so they can forget about it; safe in the knowledge that it is doing its job in the background.

With a 0.6mm steel substrate/1.2mm Fatra PVC chequer plate slip prevention membrane & 25 year guarantee, we believe our new system has the potential to rapidly become one of the market leading products in this field. It is durable, smart looking, low-maintenance, well designed and great value for money, meeting the tough requirements of the refurbishment/retrofit market. If you are looking for a product that is safe, does the job and is in-keeping with architectural design, WeatherFOLD can help you achieve all of these goals… and more.

Q) Are you seeing an increase in usage of WeatherFAST systems within building projects? As architectural trends continuously shift and innovations are made, are folding guttering solutions becoming more and more prominent?

Absolutely, yes. Architects and specifiers are acutely aware of what the latest innovations and technologies are. There has been increasing pressure on them over recent years to utilise products that are eco-friendly, long lasting and low-maintenance. Contractors are also striving to meet modern demands for safer site conditions, and as such safety is paramount in the key decisions they make. By adhering to these strict principles and keeping our product cutting edge in terms of design, we really have gone from strength to strength. Our systems are being used more and more by new customers every day – customers who have seen or heard good things about the solutions we can provide. We believe that ultimately the product does the talking – and the increase in our sales is a true testament to that.

For more information on the WeatherFAST folding gutter system or any of their products, please call 0843 658 0074, email sales@weatherfast.co.uk or visit www.weatherfast.co.uk.

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The silent scream

Juliet Woodcock talks to Paul Barrett, Product Manager at ROCKWOOL Ltd, about acoustic issues in commercial and educational buildings.

These days within my local library, there seems to be no issue regarding offering overspill space to the neighbouring crèche and play group, gathered in loud restless circles containing a dozen or more exuberant infants. However, there was a time when such municipal facilities demanded a peaceful environment for reading or cultural enrichment, while the stern voice of a librarian calling “Quiet please!” quelled noise in an instant.

Intrusive noise coming from without as well as within is a fact of modern life, though fortunately, there are companies out there that do care about creating a peaceful environment for us to live, work or learn in, as Paul Barrett – Product Manager at Rockwool, explains: “Acoustics in commercial and educational buildings matter. It’s imperative that ambient noise is kept as low as possible to minimise intrusion and distraction in these environments. It’s no surprise that studies consistently show that quieter classrooms and workplaces achieve better results. Unfortunately, a large number of schools and office buildings in the UK suffer from poor acoustics.”

Paul Barrett asserts that the most serious issue regarding poor acoustics is caused by flanking transfer, and went on to explain: “The noise is transmitted indirectly via paths such as external wall cavities, voids above partitions and internal corridors, or where there are problems of excessive reverberation within the rooms themselves.”

But it is not just the internal environment that should be considered when trying to improve a building’s acoustic performance. Indeed, when refurbishing or specifying a new school or commercial premises, plans to reduce the noise from outside from wind, rain, hail and traffic, as well as playgrounds and sports centres should be included.

Stone wool insulation is renowned for its excellent acoustic properties, its open fibrous structure making it ideal for absorbing and regulating noise in the building for the lifetime of the property.

Paul Barrett continues: “It is also incredibly versatile, with products and systems available to suit a wide variety of building applications. These include metal and standing seam, flat, green and pitched roofs; ground, exposed and separating floors; internal partitions and separating walls; fire protection and fire stopping; HVAC and masonry cavity walls.
“Fully tested to meet the rigorous demands of today’s legislation, stone wool insulation solutions are proven to reduce ambient, impact and reverberation noise in educational and commercial buildings.”

Utilizing ROCKWOOL’s HARDROCK® Multi-Fix (DD) product on a flat roof, for example, as a 0.25W/m2K single layer or 0.18W/m2K dual layer, mechanically fixed roof solution can provide an acoustic performance of Rw 35dB (single) and 39dB (dual layer) and Class C sound absorption. HARDROCK® Multi-Fix (DD) also provides an impressive fire safety rating as a flat roof board insulation with a Euroclass (A1) non-combustible fire classification and LPCB approval (LPS 1181: Part 1 (Ext-A).

My local library was the last bastion of peace and quiet in my town; I used to know I could go there and get away from other people’s noise – including my adorable nephew’s teething tantrums. I would feel rested there, browsing through books, and in the early days of my journalistic career, going through the micro-fiche with the librarian to order tomes for research that would arrive up to six weeks later pre-Internet days ….. Good acoustic insulation in buildings is vital to our health, our capability to work and learn.

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Aluminium decking becomes a refurbishment favourite

A manufacturer of patented aluminium open grilles has tapped into widespread demand in the refurbishment sector by offering a more practical alternative to traditional timber decking.

Yorkshire-based neaco has received a high volume of specifications for its unique Techdek system as garden decking, sun terraces, external walkways and balcony flooring. Many architects, designers, landscaping professionals and contractors have been quick to appreciate Techdek’s advantages for refurbishment work: the product is non-toxic, non-combustible, corrosive-free, extremely durable and easy to install without requiring hot works such as welding. A patented swage-locked construction between bars enables high structural efficiency and load-bearing capacity.

neaco’s National Sales Manager, Peter Melia, comments: “We have been attracting a lot of specifications from refurbishment projects which require replacements for timber decking and terraces – Techdek is virtually maintenance-free, which gives it a clear advantage over wood which can be vulnerable to the elements. The erratic British weather can cause wood to expand and contract with fluctuations in temperatures, damaging the fabric of the timber.

“It almost goes without saying that dampness and wood are an uneasy mix. Rain and moist atmospheric conditions are a major cause of decay and deterioration. Regular surface treatment is required to protect the grain. Aluminium decking is an excellent alternative – our grilles are available with a ribbed surface for anti-slip performance. Our advanced manufacturing facilities can even precision-cut bespoke holes in the decking panels to accommodate existing garden features – we can engineer these to outline unique shapes such as the base of tree trunk. The system can be easily recycled with no downgrading of its properties and very little energy required for re-melting.”

neaco has also enjoyed a surge in demand from conversion projects which require balcony flooring for apartments. Techdek is similarly suited to this type of use with grille profiles that provide a generous 74% contact area yet drain water quickly and effectively. It has become one of the product’s most popular applications and neaco have developed another system, Neatdek 188, featuring concealed drainage gaps which provide even greater privacy for balconies by completely obscuring the view from below.

Peter Melia said: “Many residential developments have specified our grilles as an integral part of our all-in-one modular balconies. We offer a range of modular balcony designs which also provide maintenance-free durability and fast installation with all components delivered to site, including grille flooring, handrails, balustrade and glass panel infills. Our experienced team of fitters can carry out construction with minimum disruption to other site activities.”

Techdek was launched in 1972 as neaco’s founding product and back then its original design concept was conceived primarily as an industrial flooring application. However, its high-performance features, adaptable modular design and the natural attributes of aluminium make it suitable for much broader use. With the ability to accommodate a huge range of angles and unusual curvatures, Techdek has gained a reputation as one of the most versatile grille products on the market and has served a wide variety of architectural uses encompassing cladding, roof access walkways, screening, ventilation, bridge cycle/pedestrian ways, staging, balustrade infills and stair treads. Certain profiles have been specifically developed to provide solar shading, either as dual-purpose sunscreen/walkways or a brise soleil only. They greatly reduce the net heat gain (commonly in the order of 20-40%) of sunlight striking tinted or clear windows.

neaco’s diverse product range also includes modular handrail and balustrade systems, Juliet balconies, structural glass and adaptive bathing facilities. All products are backed by a Lifetime Guarantee and the company’s website features a Members Area containing a host of useful design guides and technical files.

For more information, please visit www.neaco.co.uk, call 01653 695721 or email sales@neaco.co.uk.
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