ROOFING TODAY Issue 91 November 2020 - Roofing Today 91
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5 Contents roofing materials shortage crisis rspb is calling on roofers for swift action 10 28 4 news 30 planning for the long game matthew fry, ior 8 roof training group news 34 sKills training high on the 10 roofing materials shortage crisis agenda 12 a guide to specifying exceptional richard Kendrick, sig roofing slate 12 36 how to become an lrwa award 30 dora Kotzeva, ssQ winner 14 small is beautiful in netherlands slating sarah spink, lrwa aesthetic 38 ensuring Quality no matter what the challenges 18 setting the bar on competency for the roofing steve ball, Kingspan industry 42 mastic asphalt council spreads its wings James talman, nfrc mac 20 the perils of debris on pitched roofs 46 fasteners, fixings and everything between for fast tracK John mercer, roofing consultant construction 24 leading by example at the lead david fraser, nvelope sheet training academy 18 48 mechanical fixings for tiled 42 26 training centre of excellence roofing opens in salford tomasz solnica, wabis roofing accessories 28 rspb is calling on roofers for swift action 50 news, proJects, products & people how to become an lrwa award winner mechanical fixings for tiled roofs 36 48 Roofing Today Magazine is published by Construction Media Publishing Ltd Editor Dr Claire Griffiths editor@roofingtoday.co.uk 31 Seymour Terrace, Seymour Street, Liverpool L3 5PE Tel. 0151 708 0070 | enquiries@roofingtoday.co.uk | www.roofingtoday.co.uk Senior Media Accounts Brenda McNally brenda@roofingtoday.co.uk Media Accounts Paul Fitzgerald paul@roofingtoday.co.uk Administration Jemma Daly administration@roofingtoday.co.uk © Roofing Today 2020 All rights reserved. Circulation Manager Helen Threllfall circulation@roofingtoday.co.uk Every effort has been made by the publisher to ensure the accuracy of the contents of this magazine. However, under no circumstances does the publisher accept liability for any loss or damage which may arise or result from errors or omissions in any advertisement or editorial, its content or position. All opinions and facts presented in editorial features are those of the companies and individuals submitting such editorial and are accepted and published in good faith by Construction Media Publishing Ltd and are not warranted to be correct in any way and the publishers will not accept any responsibility for, or any liability arising from, that content. www.roofingtoday.co.uk | ROOFING today |3
News Quinn Rebrands to Mannok as it Shows Fifth Year of Growth NFRC Members N ew brand “Mannok” signifies strength and commitment as Offer 40 Kickstart company’s earnings increase for 5th consecutive year Placements FRC members are ‘Mannok’ is the new identity for Quinn Industrial Holdings. N providing 40 six-month placements for young people on As the rebrand was announced, the Universal Credit, through the company also published its 2019 government Kickstart Scheme. financial results, showing its NFRC is applying for Kickstarts strongest position since its as a gateway organisation and acquisition in 2014, with a fifth will be supporting its members consecutive year of increased who are providing the EBITDA earnings. placements. Rebranding to Mannok marks the The new identity resonates well Mannok as our new brand identity, CEO James Talman said: “I have culmination of a 5-year with domestic and international which we believe better reflects been blown away by the transformation and investment stakeholders, an important the ownership, evolution and enthusiasm and willingness of programme that has repositioned consideration given the company’s our industry for this scheme. We future focus of our business. the business as a provider of increasing export focus. will now be able to give over 40 sustainable building and packaging “2019 marked our fifth successive young people on Universal Credit, solutions, supporting an increase in Investment a chance to work in our fantastic year of earnings growth and a sales of over 30% in the period. 2019 saw heavy investment in both robust performance given Brexit industry – we should be Quinn Building Products and uncertainty. incredibly proud as a sector.” The name Mannok, derives from Quinn Packaging, totalling €11.5m, Fear Manach, the origin of “We will still be accepting further which included fleet and mobile "Looking ahead to 2021 and a ‘Fermanagh’, reflecting the expressions of interest for the plant, and fixed plant projects post-Brexit environment, we are company’s roots in the Fermanagh scheme and once we reach the expected to yield significant very optimistic about the future of and Cavan region, and its next 30 will be putting in a profitability . Mannok and the strong position of commitment to the area’s people further application. The more which, it says, “are the lifeblood of CEO, Liam McCaffrey, said, “We the company going into the placements we can support, the the organisation’s success”. are extremely pleased to unveil coming year.” better.” Roofing Contractors Needed for £490m Roofing Contractors Wanted for Social Housing Repairs and Voids DPS Public Sector Framework pecialist roofing contractors P rocurement for Housing (PfH) is searching for SME roofing contractors across the UK to deliver S are wanted for a new four-year framework to supply public sector responsive repairs and voids works projects. to social landlords such as fixing canopies, replacing joists and rafters, The design, supply and installation repairing tiling and guttering for an of roofing and associated works (RS4) LHC framework is for public RS4 framework offers contracting initial term of five years, through a bodies to source specialist local authorities more flexibility to new dynamic purchasing system which may include call handling, repairs diagnostics and scheduling. suppliers that provide roofing combine different elements to create (DPS). systems for new builds or the system they want. They can The DPS is designed to help housing The DPS helps small, local refurbishment. choose metal tile and liquid systems providers clear their £2.6m backlog of contractors by streamlining the alongside traditional roofing which routine repairs and procure repairs tender process. Once suppliers The RS4 framework combines two also includes copper, lead or zinc. flexibly in the future. New roofing have passed the DPS selection of LHC’s previous frameworks, Adding solar panels to roof tops is contractors can join the DPS at any procedure, they can quickly bid for Pitched Roofing (PR3) and Flat also an option under this framework. time, unlike a framework. any opportunities by submitting a Roofing (FR2), to provide a tender. There is no need for them consolidated option for contracting “We’re encouraging roofing product The total value of the reactive repairs to go through the selection stage authorities. This framework can be and system suppliers to partner with and voids work to be procured via again and again for each contract used for public and residential established installers with a track the DPS is estimated at £490million. opportunity. buildings, including schools and record in delivering projects to a high Contractors will be required to either PfH’s dPS for Responsive Works & universities, high rise and standard, backed up with robust supplement a social landlord’s Voids will run for five years with the sheltered accommodation. system warranties.” option to extend for another five years. to apply for the RS4 framework, contact in-house teams or to fully manage an to apply visit: https://in-tendhost.co.uk/ Mij Rahman, Director of your regional hub which you can find here: outsourced repairs and voids service, procurementforhousing/aspx/Home Procurement at LHC, said: “The www.lhc.gov.uk/contact-us/. 4 | ROOFING today | www.roofingtoday.co.uk
25 News New LRWA Design Golden Tile Find Crowns Monarch’s Day Guide for Specifiers S windon-based Monarch Roofing is the winner of the BMI Redland Golden Tile promotion after one of its employees discovered the Golden Tile while working on a roof at MOD Larkhill. The competition, launched to celebrate 100 years of BMI Redland concrete tile manufacture, featured a special Golden Tile, hidden at random in a full pallet of tiles before entering the supply chain. So, a seemingly ordinary day for the Monarch team turned into an extraordinary one when experienced roofer Keith Lansley, who was vouchers. Contracts Manager, Steve Fitzgerald, he Liquid Roofing and Waterproofing has generously shared out £700 of the vouchers T Association (LRWA) has produced a new design guide offering technical information and loading the roof with tiles, found The Golden Tile. Not sure if his colleague Tom Perry, who was passing the tiles to him, was playing to the team of five who were on site. Monarch owner, Nick Jenkins, has, in an equally advice to help specifiers correctly select liquid some kind of joke, Keith called down asking generous gesture, decided to give the remaining products and systems. for an explanation. A few moments later, and £300 of vouchers to local charities: “What a great after some rummaging in the pallet, Tom Drawing on 40 years’ experience and research, way of celebrating a 100 years of concrete tile discovered an envelope with the winning the LRWA’s Design Guide for Specifiers - manufacture and we’ll certainly be celebrating. I details of the Golden Tile promotion. Liquid Applied Waterproofing Systems for Roof think it’s only right that the guys receive a fair and Balconies - has been produced by the The BMI Redland team has recently been able share of the prize and that local charities benefit association’s technical committee, which to present the prize of £1,000 in Amazon from our lucky day as well,” he commented. includes manufacturers, contractors and associate members. The Design Guide covers the waterproofing of Slate Development Manager Joins Burton Roofing hil Wilden has joined Burton Roofing Lee Keates, Slate Director all types of flat roof, balcony and walkway, including associated fittings and construction P Merchants as a Slate Development Manager working exclusively on the newly at Burton’s, said: “Phil’s commitment to achieving using systems manufactured by LRWA developed Glendyne range. Phil brings a operational excellence in members. wealth of experience and slate knowledge to the field along with a Best practice advice is provided on a wide Burton Roofing having worked in the roof slate credible cross-functional range of specification factors such as the industry for 30 years. skill set both in customer performance criteria for liquid systems, design service and technical excellence sits comfortably In previous roles, Phil has worked at John considerations, and the materials that may be within our dynamic protocol.” Williams & Co, Tegral Building Materials, used as part of a roof build-up. Harris Slate & Stone and Cembrit. He will be Phil joins Burton Roofing as the company The Guide also references changes to building working with architects, local authorities, continues to expand its territories to ensure a contractors and distributors in the UK. consistent supply to its increasing customer bases. regulations following the Grenfell tragedy, as well as updates to British Standards and fire safety requirements and performance. In addition, there is a section offering advice on Sales Success for CMOStores.com Half Year Results what specifiers must consider before choosing adapt quickly to a change in market conditions, Online construction a liquid applied solution as an overlay to an and this year that meant not only pivoting to products merchant existing roof, including the thermal remote working – which we managed with zero CMOStores.com has performance of an existing structure. downtime within a matter of days – but bringing reported 2020 half- year sales over £23 in additional colleagues to help us manage the Sarah Spink, CEO of the LRWA, said: “The million from January increased demand.” versality of liquid applied systems means they are now a leading solution for both new build to June 2020. The Plymouth company has attributed its and refurbishment projects. With more Profit at the company continuing growth to homeowners working on specifiers turning to liquids, we wanted to has risen by 126% on large-scale home improvement projects and make sure that comprehensive technical 2019 and it expects to close the year with using the company’s six e-commerce guidance is readily available. increased revenues and profits across the ‘superstores’. It has also invested in improving group. user experience and new onsite personalisation. “Overall, the aim of the Design Guide is to help specifiers enhance their knowledge across a CMOStores.com retained all staff on full-time Sue added: “Sales and profits have exceeded our number of key areas, including roof and balcony contracts and actively recruited during the first expectations for the half year, and we have seen design, Building Regulations, and product half of the year. good results for our individual superstores too; in certification so that these can be taken into particular, our newest addition to the offering, Chief Financial Officer, Sue Packer, said, “As the Doors Superstore, has achieved 30 per cent account when developing specifications. an online business, we have the agility to growth since the first half of 2019.” 6 | ROOFING today | www.roofingtoday.co.uk
40 Roof Training Group News Exciting New Training Facilities for the North West NCTS Master Roofers Academy, Salford Langley Flat Roofing Trailblazer, Warrington xciting times here in the North courses follow in the same month, rigs, gas guns and general fit-out Awareness. This is completely E West, as two new roof training facilities are opening in November, all under the watchful eye of Stewart Rowles who heads the has been granted by the Roofing Industry Alliance following a separate from the range of framework agreements relating to social with a third early in the New Year. academy. It will be such a benefit successful bid by the Group housing. We have 20 individuals who Skills Construction Centre, Kirkham for companies in the region to have Training Officer. The Langley team, have worked through the programme (Preston West), is almost ready to this training locally and we send led by Mark Dunn, will start to - a real bonus for employers - and it’s go and is offering roof slating and our best wishes for every success to manufacture the rigs next month at still available for companies located tiling apprenticeships initially. They Stewart and his team, as well as to the new training location in in Lancashire, Greater Manchester, will be adopting the block release the delegates participating in the Warrington. Longer term, we are Cheshire, Merseyside and North pattern with one week in the training. Funding from the CITB hoping for a flat-roofing upskilling Wales. training centre, then 4/5 with the GET fund is assisting group course at the same venue - such Kickstart employer. An added bonus is they members with course fees, so it’s a good news for our region! will offer a roll-on, roll-off facility so win-win for all. Finally, we are working on the Procure Plus, Preston employers are not tied to the government-funded Kickstart Scheme Langley Flat Roofing traditional academic year start. Our work with Procure Plus which provides funding to employers Trailblazer, Warrington continues. A couple of years ago, to create 6-month job placements for They are also working with CITB so The start date for the first cohort of the company won funding from 16-24-year-olds on Universal Credit free accommodation and travel will students taking part in the first-ever CITB/DfE to help construction who are at risk of long-term be available for those with a weekly Langley Flat Roofing Trailblazer companies ensure that entry-level unemployment. None of our members spend of more than £20. Apprenticeship in the region is 18 recruits without any experience in can offer 30 places (who can right January 2021. With just two places the industry are site ready. Included now?), however, we are able to work NCTS Master Roofers remaining, we are expecting a full in their free training portfolio, is the through the gateway organisation, Academy, Salford house and the strong possibility of CITB 1-day Health & Safety Procure Plus which is providing help The NCTS/Master Roofers’ a second cohort starting in early Awareness Course, HSE touch with the applications. Academy, Salford, opened on 2 spring 2021. Final qualification will screen test and green CSCS card, November, ready for its first five-day result in NVQ Level 2 Flat Roofing plus free training in Working at Hard Metals course. Two, fully which will include RBM, Liquid & Height, Asbestos Awareness, subscribed lead bossing/welding Single Ply. Funding for the new Manual Handing and Covid Training Group Collaboration Brings Outstanding Results espite the pandemic and RoofCERT Mobile Testing contact your local training group for D reduced incomes from CITB, the Roof Training Groups have This has also been delivered by further details. Roof Training Groups in several This all sits alongside the day to joined together, collaborating to day operations of groups, which produce some outstanding results areas, following an initiative by include advising companies, in the past six months, they report. groups which provides capacity for sourcing training and funding, additional testing in England, ensuring best value for companies, The E-Learning Project Scotland and Wales. encouraging take-up of This has delivered over 3,000 Training and Assessment apprenticeship and trailblazer training courses to almost 1,000 courses and encouraging new roofers across the UK. Training RoofCERT progress Assessor and Trainer Upskilling is recruits through schools groups promoted courses (which The courses were chosen to a high priority and Roof Training engagement and the government were funded by the Roofing complement RoofCERT Groups can support delivery of Kickstart Scheme. Industry Alliance) towards the end requirements and many learners courses to develop training and If you need advice on training of the first 2020 lockdown and take have progressed towards RoofCERT assessment capacity across the UK. contact your local training group – up by roofers was excellent. competence through this route. Places are limited, but please they can help! 8 | ROOFING today | www.roofingtoday.co.uk
Roofing Materials Shortage The Roofing Materials Shortage Crisis totals together. We then know what to expect, and make provision to accept delivery when available.” markets to justify this kind of major investment. We recognise the need for businesses to have clarity of The company had initially been forced to make redundancies but has now increased its operational team by 15% in a bid to increase products at the correct time, and giving us the best chance of meeting customer demand.” supply, and we want the market to Roofing contractors have had a very busy summer and autumn but are now facing long delays in “We have actively declined orders know we are working hard to output. It has also boosted capital In the meantime, Wienerberger has to ensure consistent supply to our deliveries of roofing materials. Roofing Today investigated the extent of the crisis and spoke to provide this.” The point here is investment by £1.3m, upgrading taken the difficult decision to loyal customers, which we hope that, without certainty that demand plant to improve efficiency, and is introduce allocation systems for merchants, distributors and manufacturers about how they are addressing the situation. will serve us well in the long run,” will continue at current levels, focusing on larger stock holding of he adds, illustrating the painful merchants, which at least has the manufacturers can’t take the risk of all products. Russell Roof Tiles is decisions the current situation is merit of building some certainty of one of our roofing investing in more capacity. currently reporting delivery times of N contractor readers will need telling that there is currently a severe shortage of forcing. But, as Contour Roofing MD, Jonathan Woods points out, the Andrew Hayward, Managing Director at Russell Roof Tiles, has bucked the trend somewhat: “We 4-6 weeks. At Wienerberger, apart from putting on extra shifts at their factories, the future supply. As Ian comments, “We recognise that anything we can do to contribute to stabilising roofing materials. Concrete roof tiles current situation was foreseeable: the market has a benefit to all.” are in a better position because focus is on improved and battens seem to be the most “The current shortage of material though we stopped production in communication to obtain accurate extensively affected with lead times and distribution has been of no Winter lockdown lock-down we resumed schedules from customers. Ian from order to delivery being at least surprise and we prepared as best manufacturing in May once our Caddick explains, “This allows us a As the nation enters a second 12 weeks and up to 22. In fact, there we could during the lockdown by social distancing measures were in clearer vision of future demand, lockdown and a no-deal Brexit is are shortages and delays on most keeping key staff employed to place. leading us to produce the correct just weeks away, the likelihood of roofing materials, including fascia, ensure that this information was roofing underlays and insulation. communicated to all our material shortages improving is customers.” UK based raw materials are under severe remote. Andrew Hayward is stark in It’s the last thing roofers need at this time of course, as they are still So, even as lockdown was his forecast, “UK based raw pressure, this will have a knock-on result across making up time whilst they catch underway, roofing contractors were materials are under severe pressure, up with backlogs. Through the aware that materials stocks would the whole of the supply chain with most issues this will have a knock-on result summer and into autumn the be running low. In the North West, across the whole of the supply roofing sector has never been so the first thing one major contractor appearing spring/summer next year. chain with most issues appearing busy. did, as lockdown was announced, spring/summer next year. was to secure their supply chain. So Materials shortages are being how have the materials shortages “Prices will increase around 10% thrown into stark relief as demand developed? next year as raw materials become pressure is mounting. At the end of October, one roofing contractor Demand and stocks increasingly difficult to obtain. The resorted to twitter in desperation, USA has already entered European Ian Caddick, Sales Director at trying to locate just four pallets of timber markets which has affected Wienerberger explains, “During this tiles. A few weeks before, another prices by 30%. In addition, Chinese- [lockdown] period, manufacturers’ contractor put out a plea for roof production facilities were unable to sourced products, along with tiles on LinkedIn, saying "We have with Redland roof tiles giving us the supply chain to merchants and produce and build up stocks. Once mainland European products, are three sites all waiting on our Without sufficient minimum 10 weeks wait. It’s distributors. These companies are we could return to work, we have just starting to be impacted by materials on order placed 6-10 having a major impact on us.” worked hard as a manufacturing weeks ago. The lead times on all materials roofers are buying up as much stock as they delays which is pushing the prices industry to maximise the roof tiles just now is getting can get their hands on but, much up.” A complex predicament in danger of being production from our factories, whilst ridiculous." like the panic buying in March, this adhering to the required social In the face of such a bleak outlook It’s a complex predicament facing only exacerbates the situation. In a recent NFRC survey, accessing forced to leave roofs distancing protocols. all contractors. If they over-order to Shane Watts, MD at Watts Roofing, the roofing contractors Roofing materials was a major concern protect supply they have stock is uncomfortably aware of the irony: “We continue to invest in additional Today spoke to remain raised by more than half of the sitting on site, tying up cash and just felted and “Obviously we’re bulk ordering to shifts, where possible within Covid determinedly upbeat. Here’s Darren trade body’s members. NFRC CEO, running the risk of theft. Even with try and get round it but then we’re restrictions. This will realise extra battened and McGhee again: “I’m trying to adapt James Talman said, “Concrete roof a stockpile, moving tiles to different becoming the problem.” As Shane product for us shortly, but we do tiles and timber were listed as the sites as they’re needed risks and just be as positive about it as I says, it’s a phenomenon happening not expect lead times to be top material shortage areas. This breakages. Without sufficient waiting for tiles. dramatically impacted by this can, we’re all going through the across the industry. seems to be due to the incredible materials roofers are in danger of improvement. same difficulties. I pray that it’s Another danger is that, with graded Garrett Courtney, Sales Director at amount of demand we have seen in being forced to leave roofs just only going to be like this for a short roofing batten supply threatened, About Roofing Supplies explains “We see demand remaining strong the last quarter combined with the felted and battened and waiting for duration.” tiles. But in this situation lower quality timber will be how he’s trying to learn from his into Q1 of 2021, but find it difficult lag seen in production, following contractors may find the contract accepted on site, which could experience of shortages in past to predict the market beyond that Jonathan Woods has a similarly lockdown.” does not allow for part payments; endanger any roofer trusting their times by gauging upcoming point. Much will depend on the hopeful tone: ““We are all sailing in Darren McGhee, MD of DMG potentially increasing costs weight to it, apart from quality demand: “We have placed lots of policies and initiatives coming out of government, coupled with any the same boat but by working Roofing and MyRoofCare, and incurred for delayed completions, or standards issues. bulk orders with manufacturers, further Covid restrictions put in closely and sensibly with NFRC Scotland board member, said even imposes penalties. Not only knowing the lead times, with a Merchant pressure place. Investments in production manufacturing and our customers, “It’s tough going just now for all that, prices are inevitably rising, simple equation: our customers roofing contractors across the UK. meaning projects quoted 12 or 22 Just as roofers are battling the telling us what work is coming up facilities are always under we will all get out at our We are experiencing very long lead weeks before may now be loss- tremendous pressures they face, and looking at our sales for the consideration, but clearly, we need destination in one piece – we times on all our sites, particularly making. a clear vision of strong future always do.” ||| that pressure is being passed up product historically and adding the 10 | ROOFING today | www.roofingtoday.co.uk www.roofingtoday.co.uk | ROOFING today | 11
59 Slate roofing A Guide to Specifying Exceptional Slate Dora Kotzeva, Head of Marketing at slate experts SSQ, gives her tips on how you can ensure the slate you’re specifying is the best. hy do thousands of homeowners themselves are How else can you tell if slate is W How much maintenance does a architects, thousands of adamant they want to replicate a quality? slate roof require? builders, and millions of slate-roofed building’s original look and feel. Water absorption is one indicator. That really depends on the quality buildings all around the world use The less water a slate absorbs, the of the slate used. As you’d expect, slate? But increasingly, we’re seeing it smaller the risk of delamination, poorer quality slate deteriorates Because it’s robust, attractive, and used in contemporary style projects minerals inside the slate swelling faster, and requires more intensive 100% natural. Those are the too. One growing trend is modern- up, or damage from the freeze-thaw maintenance. characteristics that have made it looking properties designed to use cycle. traditional materials as much as Individual slates can sometimes popular for centuries. In our The British Standard requires crack or break and need replacing, possible. environmentally-conscious age, in slate’s water absorption to be but with high-quality slate that’s an which naturalness and longevity are Slate, with its combination of below 0.6%. However, that’s extremely rare occurrence. highly-prized, those are the authentic looks and outstanding recently changed. It used to characteristics fuelling slate’s performance, is the obvious choice demand water absorption of less In general, however, a quality slate steady growth today. when it comes to the roof. than half that, 0.3%, and many in roof requires very little maintenance at all. Slate has to How do slate tiles need to be laid to ensure a high-quality always be laid finish that will last for years? by a Slate has to always be laid by a professional roofing contractor with professional experience in slate roofing. The roofing quality of the craftsmanship is as important as the slate itself. contractor with For more complicated roofs, we recommend that technical advice is experience in requested prior to installation. slate roofing. That would include a quantity take off as well as the calculation of the The quality of headlap (the length of the overlap). the This is the only way to ensure that a slate roof is watertight. craftsmanship is The best way to get the best as important as But the most reliable way of ensuring an outstanding slate the slate itself. supply is to work with a company that only offers the cream of the So, if you’re interested in specifying What accreditations should the industry would argue that 0.3% crop. it, what are the key things you you look out for when is still the mark of excellence. need to know? specifying slate? For 40 years, SSQ has had an Rates of oxidation are another exclusive supply arrangement with When is a slate roof suitable? Ensure any slate conforms to BS crucial factor to look at. If a slate the Del Carmen quarry in the Slate is hugely versatile. There’s a EN12326 standard. If it hasn’t been contains large amounts of iron- Cabrera mountains – one of the common misconception that it’s tested, and doesn’t have CE sulphur minerals, there’s a high only high-grade Spanish quarries to only compatible with historic marking, it doesn’t meet UK chance a slate will oxidise on the send its best material to the UK as buildings, and that the only time Building Regulations and shouldn’t well as France. roof. it’s used in a present-day context is be installed. And it’s one of the only companies when conservation guidelines Check if the slate you’re But it takes more than the right BS of its kind capable of supplying require it. considering has been subject to phyllite, the stunning architectural EN accreditation to distinguish the thermal cycling tests – it’s not a Replacing historic roofs is one of stone it sources from its own quarry best slate. In fact, 12326 doesn’t 100% sure-fire method, but the test the key instances where slate roofs in Argentina. ||| tell you much about slate quality at will usually show if there are any are used, of course – either because If you’re interested in learning more, that’s what the local conservation all – just that it’s been through the iron-sulphur minerals present. please don’t hesitate to give SSQ a call - office demands, or because the standard tests. 020 8961 7725 12 | ROOFING today | www.roofingtoday.co.uk
20 Slate Roofing Small is Beautiful in Netherlands Slating Aesthetic Dutch roofing company Walter Verhoeven BV has worked with Welsh Slate for all of its 140 years, but it was only this year that the contractor’s employees got to see exactly how the slates are made when they visited Welsh Slate in North Wales. anaging Director, Wim Small slates, steep roofs Walter Verhoeven is a family M Verhoeven flew his brother Thom and 21 other colleagues over in February for The reason for this is twofold. Firstly, slate production in the The visit brought home the differences between business and now run by Wim and Thom, the fourth generation. But Welsh Slates have been shipped to a 140th anniversary two-day trip to north-east of Belgium and Northern the low countries of Europe since Europe was predominately in small the slate sector in the the 13th Century. the UK, one of which was spent visiting Welsh Slate’s main Penrhyn sizes, due to the material’s inferior UK and the The big growth in sales to these Quarry in North Wales. quality. So, the architectural style areas, due to the durability of the developed to accommodate these Netherlands where Here they witnessed the full superior Welsh Slate product, small slates which could be production process, from rock face, roofing slates are corresponded with the massive incorporated into complex roof growth of the Welsh Slate industry through sawing, splitting and designs not feasible with the larger typically almost half from the end of the 18th Century to dressing. Some even tried their hand slates sold in the UK. Hence the its height in the late Victorian at splitting the premium Penrhyn Heather Blue slate themselves. proliferance of steep roofs and the size of British slates. period of the 1880s. mansards on the North European The visit brought home the Their team of up to 18 craftsmen mainland. differences between the slate sector has used hook fixings on small Secondly, small slates were The small size of slates used in Welsh slates on more than a in the UK and the Netherlands produced in Wales as a The Netherlands also impacts their thousand buildings in The where roofing slates are typically by-product of the manufacture of fixing method. This relies on hooks Netherlands. almost half the size of British slates - 300mm x 200mm (12” x 8”) or the more familiar, larger slates, so rather than double-nailing each Now specialists in slate, and zinc, approximately 45/m2, and seldom were both readily available and slate, a process that is lead and copper roofing, 90 to 95% longer than 350mm/14”, compared sold at a comparatively low price, approximately 10% quicker, at five of their work comprises the re- to 500mm by 250mm (20” x 10”) or as there was no market for them in to 10 minutes/m2, than the UK roofing of heritage buildings such approximately 20/m2. the UK. process. as chateaux, churches, cathedrals, ||-
26 Slate Roofing Wim said: “We like to work with Welsh Slate as it is the best quality and easily lends itself to the complex roof structures we work on. The colours and structure of the Welsh slate are very nice and they have proven their quality over the years.” This work ethic is already apparent in potentially the fifth generation – Thom’s 19-year-old son who already has metal roofing qualifications and is now into his Wim Verhoeven, MD of Netherlands roofing company, Walter Verhoeven BV, flew himself, his brother, and 21 colleagues to the UK and second year working with slates, visited Welsh Slate to celebrate the contractor’s 140th anniversary. alongside a colleague who has 11 years ago but where the Chinese worked for the company for 32 slate roof has already failed due to years. poor materials and workmanship. It’s all a far cry from the early days Poor-quality projects are when the business was set up by increasingly the case, with many heritage buildings such as the brothers’ great-grandparents. churches being forced to close due Wim and Thom’s parents combined to lack of visitors and therefore roofing with the installation of gas, income. These are then being water and plumbing in houses, but converted into apartments or that side of the business was commercial/retail units by divested almost 20 years ago when developers who do not always it could not compete against the want to invest in a re-roof or will growing number of sole traders. only pay for a cheap and inferior job. Then, slate comprised 40% of the -|| castles, monasteries and civic certificates since they were business. Now it is almost 80%. buildings (which the Dutch introduced. There are two heavily-detailed Government pays grants towards), projects Walter Verhoeven is Looking to the future, Walter While their employees do not have with new-build houses, shopping particularly proud of. One is the re- Verhoeven employs two to complete a seven-year centres and business premises 2 roofing, with 400m of Welsh Slate’s apprenticeship to become a Master apprentices who were looking to making up the remaining five to Penrhyn Heather Blue slates, of a Slater, such as in Germany, the start college just before the country 10%. company takes such pride in its castle with 16th Century origins in went into lockdown, on a training To work on heritage buildings in own heritage expertise that it will Berlicum which was being scheme that had been restored after Holland, there is a preference for turn down contracts where the brief converted into a private home. The second, is the re-roofing, with it shut down during the 2008 roofing contractors who are certified is not for a quality job. for disciplines like slate and metal 700m2 of Cwt-Y-Bugail slates, of an recession. Now they hope to start Currently, Walter Verhoeven is re- this month (November), Covid roofing and Walter Verhoeven BV is enormous 100-year-old villa in roofing a villa that was only built proud to have had all these Helmond. permitting. ||| ( 02380 200994 3.2mm UND * sales@europeanslate.co.uk P ESCO 5 P ESCO 402 ERCL N OAK 7 P ESCO 9 P MERAYO AVAI OW WWW.EUROPEANSLATE.CO.UK LABL E P ESCO 100 4.5mm tHE NatURaL CHoICE FoR RooFING SLatE 16 | ROOFING today | www.roofingtoday.co.uk
18 Competency in Roofing Setting the Bar on Competency for the Roofing Industry James Talman, CEO, National Federation of Roofing Contractors ompetence is a word to tackle this issue head on. This will be assessed. This will be This definition of higher-risk C being talked about more and more in the construction industry. The HSE group has just published its final report ‘Setting the Bar’ that sets out a blueprint for a new overseen by a new competence committee, who will sit within the new Building Safety includes over 13,000 buildings, and the government will have the right to extend this definition if defines competence as ‘the competency regime for our Regulator. they see fit. combination of training, skills, industry. The report recommends Competency standards Contractors don’t have wait until experience and knowledge that a that all those whose work on person has and their ability to higher-risk constructions is likely From the bottom up, across the the law changes, to demonstrate apply them to perform a task to affect the safety outcome of the industry, a national suite of their team’s competency. safely’. building, or who work competency standards will be Fortunately, in the roofing From the bottom up, across the industry, a national suite of competency standards will be developed in line with the overarching competency framework. Dame Judith Hackitt, in her unsupervised on these buildings, developed in line with the industry we are ahead of the review of building safety following should have to meet the overarching competency game and already have an the Grenfell tragedy, highlighted requirements set out in the new framework. NFRC is playing a key accreditation scheme for that, while there are many competency framework for their role in developing the bottom-up individual competency – competent people working on particular sector. approach for installers as part of RoofCERT. higher-risk construction, the Working Group 2 . Over time all Top down, bottom up We currently have 2,000 funded current system is fragmented, businesses and installers working The report sets out a top-down places ready to accredit complex and inconsistent. on higher risk buildings will need and bottom-up approach to individual roofing operatives. At Ultimately, she said, this can to demonstrate they meet the new competency. At a high level, a the time of writing we have seriously compromise the fire requirements. new ‘overarching competency accredited almost 100 roofers and safety of higher-risk buildings and, framework’ is currently being So, what does this all have to do have hundreds more in the therefore, a more comprehensive developed as a British Standard. with roofing? Well, if you are pipeline. approach was needed. This will address Dame Hackitt’s work on any higher-risk building The industry is only going in one Following her report and concerns by taking a (residential building or student direction when it comes to recommendations, a ‘Competency comprehensive and consistent accommodation higher than 18- competency, the question is, are Steering Group’ of over 150 approach to competency. It will metres or six storeys), in the not- you prepared? ||| organisations, including the set out core principals of so-distant future you will have a National Federation of Roofing competence across all disciplines legal obligation to demonstrate Sign your team up to RoofCERt at: Contractors (NFRC), was formed and professions and how these you and your team’s competency. https://roofcert.co.uk/register/. 18 | ROOFING today | www.roofingtoday.co.uk
7 Pitched Roofing The Perils of Debris on Pitched Roofs John Mercer, Roofing Consultant have always found it products, though long term, it from valleys and gutters together Side abutment flashing details, I fascinating that there are as many people who ask how to promote moss growth on their may lead to the premature delamination of clay roof tiles. Clay roof tile manufacturers will with any moss or lichen growth that restricts the flow of water off the roof slope. The RTA particularly those for use with flat, single lapped interlocking tiles, require careful publication provides useful consideration. The traditional new roof, to give it a ‘weathered’ normally recommend the regular detail for weathering the junction information on how to remove appearance, as there are people removal of heavy growth on their and inhibit moss and lichen is a continuous ‘secret’ gutter, who want to know how to remove roof tiles as part of their growth on clay and concrete roof with the tiles finishing close or inhibit moss growth. conditions of guarantee. tiles. (within 15mm) to the wall face. Whilst moss growth on roof tiles Heavy moss growth may block Heavy moss growth may block clay and may be considered to add a clay and concrete roof tile certain ‘rustic charm’ and help interlocks and channels and side concrete roof tile interlocks and channels blend in a new roof into its joints in slates, ultimately surroundings (such as the house causing water leakage into the and side joints in slates, ultimately causing under the trees, in the photo roof structure, particularly on low pitched roof slopes. water leakage into the roof structure, above), what hidden dangers could the growth impose? particularly on low pitched roof slopes. Similarly, heavy deposits of pine Though some minor growth does needles can block gutters and not seem to harm roof tiles or channels – in the photo above, a hinder their primary function of slate roof failed when heavy Roof design Whilst this detail is excellent for shedding water and keeping the deposits within the side joints keeping water out, it is prone to caused water to leak through the Roof design also plays an weather out, too much moss and blockage, particularly in areas lichen can be damaging. slate headlaps and side laps. important role in avoiding where there is a risk of debris The Roof Tile Association (RTA), blockage on pitched roofs. For such as leaves and pine needles Damp risk in its publication ‘Care example, the width of an open etc. Therefore, it has become The risk that moss poses is that it Maintenance & Repair of Clay channel valley, commonly at common practice to install a impedes the flow of water from and Concrete Roof Tiles’ least 125mm, is considered wide cover flashing in addition to a the roof and so hold the roof tiles recommends carrying out regular secret gutter to prevent blockage. enough, under normal in damp conditions for much visual inspections of the roof, circumstances, to avoid build-up Alternatively, side abutments can longer than would otherwise be usually twice a year, in the the case. In normal spring and autumn. During of debris on a domestic roof, be designed with an open circumstances moss growth is regular maintenance, any leaves though regular inspections are channel, such as those commonly unlikely to damage concrete and debris should be removed still recommended. used in Scotland. The channel, ||- 20 | ROOFING today | www.roofingtoday.co.uk
Pitched Roofing 16 -|| whilst exposed, is wide enough to The traditional detail for weathering the downpipes. The cons are they do discourage debris build up, though not keep out fine debris, they may regular inspection is still junction is a continuous ‘secret’ gutter, with the become clogged by fine debris recommended. themselves, and they make tiles finishing close (within 15mm) to the wall cleaning out the gutters more Back gutters, including those behind chimneys and some roof windows, face... . it has become common practice to difficult. ||| are prone to blockage from Summary surrounding trees. By their nature, install a cover flashing in addition to a secret they have an open channel to collect m Do not allow the heavy water and so must be inspected gutter to prevent blockage. build up of moss and lichen regularly and cleaned out where if it is likely to block tile necessary. channels and interlocks and impede water flow. Of course, much of the debris that lands on a pitched roof will inevitably m Design roof junctions to find its way into the gutters. minimise the risk of them Generally, bi-annual inspections and being clogged by debris. cleaning will be necessary to keep the gutter clean of excessive debris. m Consider installing gutter One option is to fit gutter guards, and hopper guards to catch netting or brushes, in the gutters to leaves but remember that keep them clear of leaves. fine debris may either clog the guards or get through to However, there are pros and cons to the gutters. fitting gutter guards; the pros are guards are easy to install, they cannot m Carry out regular roof be seen from the ground and they inspections and remove roof keep leaves out of the gutters and debris where necessary. 23 55 22 | ROOFING today | www.roofingtoday.co.uk www.roofingtoday.co.uk | ROOFING today | 23
7 Lead Sheet Training Leading by Example at the Lead Sheet With all the team’s experience, they Whilst the fundamentals of passionate about making a he’s in talks with a trade body to are skilled at calibrating courses to traditional leadwork might be difference to individuals.” collaborate on developing a new learners. Says John, “There are timeless, the industry is continually programme, which he expects to “We’re looking at offering tailored Training Academy some individuals that pick it up evolving, as John describes: announce at the end of the year. packages of training. Not all really quickly and for some it takes “Things change in the industry, and contractors can get away for a Other plans in the pipeline are to a bit longer, which I think is to do we need to discuss that with prolonged period of time so we’re work with Kent County Council on with people’s learning styles. Some employers and collaborate with looking at offering training for a going into schools to promote learners are very auditory or visual, industry so that we can adapt our Roofing Today spoke to John Lewis, Director of Training & Operations at the Lead Sheet specific skill or project area in opportunities in the specialist however a majority of our learners programmes to meet their needs. Training Academy to find out how they are coping with the Covid-19 crisis and what the smaller blocks.” roofing sector and in roofing in are physical kinesthetic learners, That strengthens the employer’s future prospects are for the organisation. meaning they learn through their company because the quality of Apart from responding to industry general. sense of touch and practical ability. their staff increases. But we also with employer-led training, John Of course, the LSTA has had to It’s very much an artisan skill and keep students and learners at the also formulates longer term strategy he Lead Sheet Training developing the programmes and respond to the pandemic crisis, not T Academy in East Peckham is arguably the best-known lead and hard metal training bringing in innovation.” John has the ideal mix of skills and experience, coming from an people progress at differing paces to develop what is, after all, a skilled specialism.” centre of everything we do. I’m very for the Academy. At the moment least with reduced numbers on courses to ensure safe distancing, and that affects the bottom line. For organisation in the industry. “It’s something I’m very passionate training organisations, the engineering background gained about, that people get the training unpredictability emanating from Synonymous with the sector’s from serving with the Royal they need for their future, whether CITB adds to the uncertainty. bible, the Lead Sheet Manual, it Engineers for 14 years. He’s also a that’s functional skills in geometry has been operating for almost a qualified tradesman and trained or advanced techniques. With these Uncertainty century, taking on responsibility for and worked with lead in the past. skills under their belt, a whole host “I’ve kind of got one eye on CITB both setting the methods and After a period of self-employment, of opportunities open up to progress and one eye on how we’re going to standards of leadwork in the UK. John started a career in further them in their work life and of course move in other directions,” says education teaching, eventually increase their earning potential.” John Lewis joined the Lead Sheet John. “If CITB dropped out it would becoming Director of Training Academy (LSTA) in Funding have an impact on a huge number Apprenticeships at Barking & October last year as its Director of of training providers and levy Dagenham College. There are several ways contractors Training & Operations and he is paying employers who access the can source funding to get qualified mindful of the long history of the Working alongside John, is Simon grant funding. It would impact in lead. Courses can be fully funded organisation he now heads. Wood as the Centre’s trainer and across the sector and the industry using the CITB grant funding assessor, Paul Cobbing as lead as a whole. We know what “I knew what a great reputation the system if they are with a levy assessor, and Sharon Phipps in happened with Carillion – all of organisation had and what it did for paying company, or they can go charge of accounts, administration sudden there were hundreds of through their regional roof training the industry even before I joined,” and funding. With this small team apprentices with nowhere to go, group. There are also bursaries says John “My main priority has the Academy has been very busy and that could happen again if available through City and Guilds, been to maintain that, as well as since reopening in early July, after as well as Advanced Learner loans there was a loss of funding. through the gov.uk site for Level 3 “One of the things we’re doing is to Rather than doing 35 days in one go, learners courses and above. register with the Education and Lead, of course, is a traditional Skills Funding Agency which opens now come and do one-week blocks. It’s much roofing material and leadwork up opportunities for apprenticeships easier for them to fit it into busy work practices remain largely unaltered. and access to adult education funds That said, one area John explains – it broadens the pot and schedules. that changes have occurred is in the potentially offers more funded health and safety approach to programmes to employers and there leadwork. “It’s highly controlled and staff or indeed attract new people the lockdown, and is now fully split it down into four modules. This we give guidance to all our learners into the industry.” booked until Christmas. not only breaks down the cost into at the outset on the safe use of lead, and its environmental impact. Overall, John remains upbeat: “I’m John explains, “The most popular manageable chunks for those Regulations and legislation have a very optimistic individual and courses are the Lead Bossing and companies that aren’t accessing got a lot tougher recently especially we’re very positive about the future. Welding at basic and intermediate funding, but it also allows some for things like lead in blood testing. There’s clear demand for training in Level 3. The basic course is popular flexibility. Rather than doing 35 the sector and a need for CPD to If you’re out in the industry you because it is designed not just for days in one go, learners now come continue to make sure the next should be getting your blood tested those starting out in a lead and do one-week blocks. It’s much generation are not disadvantaged at least every six months. Here in specialism, but also for slaters and easier for them to fit it into busy and they can continue on their the centre, all our trainers are tested tilers who need to know how to work schedules. every three months.” training pathways. We must ensure correctly do lead flashings, that they have the opportunity to “They can also ‘pay as you learn’ “From my perspective, it’s about guttering and other lead detailing train and upskill and that specialist and spread the cost, one module at sharing good practice. If we teach to a high standard. lead skills remain in the industry to a time. At the end of 6-7 one-week that here then it bleeds out into benefit not only individuals and the “When I first got here, the Level 3 blocks, learners receive a City & industry where others can follow companies they work for, but the intermediate course was a Guilds Traditional Intermediate that example and use lead in a safe industry as a whole.” ||| standalone one and I immediately Lead or Hard metals crafts.” and controlled manner,” John adds. 24 | ROOFING today | www.roofingtoday.co.uk www.roofingtoday.co.uk | ROOFING today | 25
Roofing Training Training Centre of Excellence Opens in In the past, experienced lead and Hoddesdon at the beginning of The Covid pandemic means that a the first courses are under way, hard metal workers were issued lockdown last March, but since full launch of the centre at Salford we’re confident that bookings will CSCS cards through industry then the tide has turned as far as will not be possible while be coming in thick and fast,” said Nigel. ||| Salford accreditation, also known as enthusiasm for training is restrictions are in place, but Nigel grandfather rights, often on concerned.” and Stewart are intending to send In an exciting development for the roofing industry, a new training centre for pitch and employer recommendations rather out invitations to all interested Training materials are expensive For information on any of the training flat roofing has opened this month in Salford, Manchester. Roofing Today went to find than the achievement of a parties at appointed times. It’s not but Associated Lead Mills (ALM) is and/or assessments available at either recognised qualification. CSCS already sponsoring both centres of the two centres, please visit the out what’s on offer. ideal, but better than no closed this process to new and Logan Roofing Solutions in Master Roofers or NCtS website, opportunity to see the centre at all! telephone 01992 801914, or email s the nights draw in, the will offer them easy access to all applicants in 2010, but existing Northern Ireland is keen to support A We have thrown out training@ncts.org.uk. Bookings on any weather gets colder and the their training needs, either at cardholders have been allowed to them with roofing supplies, which “The centre is already a big talking of the courses may also be made via Covid 19 restrictions Salford in the north west or at our the old norms, the renew on the same basis. in turn increases their own brand point in the roofing sector and once telephone or email. become tighter, we might all be other training academy in However, from 1 January 2020 all awareness in England. forgiven for feeling a little gloomy Hoddesdon, Hertfordshire. By repetitive rigs, the cards renewed under grandfather and in need of something to cheer working together we will become a simplified exercises. rights will expire on 31 December From beginner to us up. stronger brand both in the north 2024, and CSCS will stop issuing and south of the country.” We wanted the cards from 30 June 2024. experienced So how about this for some great news! A state-of-the-art training The Salford training academy is challenging and Of course, such an ambitious plan tradespeople, we facility in the north west of England within easy reach of the M602 and of setting up a training centre of is opening its doors to the first of suitable accommodation is just a comprehensive roof can offer a range excellence in Salford, together with many trainees keen to further their few minutes’ walk away. running the existing facility at of industry- knowledge and skills in the roofing set-ups, real-life Hoddesdon on a similar level, is Master Roofers’ Managing Director, sector. bound to raise eyebrows when most recognised Stewart Rowles, explained the situations in a industries are feeling the effects of a National Construction Training thinking behind this brand-new qualifications workshop global pandemic. Services (NCTS) are partnering training facility. “When we first Master Roofers to set up this unique began our discussions, our aims “Lead and hard metal courses are designed to help training academy in Salford, Greater were very clear: to change the way environment ... to be almost fully booked to the end of Manchester. Although other roofing training was delivered in roofing, exciting and the year and enquiries and bookings you make the next training facilities exist in the north and to create an inspiring training NCTS Managing Director, Nigel Johnston conducting onsite assessment training for slating and tiling training are west, none can offer lead and hard experience,” he said. inspiring. (OSAT). going through the roof – literally! move in your said Nigel. career, improve in The aim is that all tutors will also “From beginner to experienced “We are of course keeping to be qualified assessors and vice tradespeople, we can offer a range a niche area or government guidelines so we won’t versa, offering a complete, bespoke, of industry-recognised be running our courses at maximum simply gain more training and assessment package. qualifications designed to help you make the next move in your career, capacity – we’ve already “Having exceptional trainers and improve in a niche area or simply experienced closure of courses at confidence. tutors is paramount to the ethos of gain more confidence,” said Nigel. our centres and really is the backbone of our educational goal,” “We are dedicated to developing a curriculum which will benefit the Stewart added. roofing industry and our centres are Both centres will also carry the open to all roofing sector employers, Master Roofers’ Managing Director, Stewart Rowles in front of one of the challenging and as well as those looking to develop inspiring roofing rigs available for training in the Salford facility. ‘Richard Murdoch Training Centre for Excellence’ accolade, among or start a career in the industry.” metals training in this area, and for “We have thrown out the old many other industry-recognised The range of courses available at some time contractors have been norms, the repetitive rigs, the accreditations. each centre covers sector-specific expressing a need for training in simplified exercises. We wanted training, for example qualifications No expense has been spared in the this sector without having to travel challenging and comprehensive roof in lead and hard metals, slating and design of the Salford premises to hundreds of miles. set-ups, real-life situations in a tiling, and health and safety. fulfil the aims set out by this new NCTS Managing Director, Nigel workshop environment, and above partnership. The rigs have unusual The on-site assessment and Johnston explained: “As part of our all, for the student experience to be detailing to offer a level of training (OSAT) programme is an expansion plans we decided to join exciting and inspiring.” excellence unrivalled elsewhere, efficient route for experienced up with Master Roofers which has and there is also a fully kitted-out workers without formal He went on to say that a great deal over 14,000 members, all contractors classroom, together with canteen, qualifications, who can obtain of work has been put in to find the ranging from sole traders to much office and toilet facilities. recognition of their skills by best tutors and craftspeople in the obtaining an NVQ Level 2 or Level larger companies. country who have many decades of Needless to say, the NCTS 3. These assessments are carried “Many of these members have not experience in the sector, for both curriculum is designed to offer out on site, reducing the amount of already been able to train, or now the Salford and Hoddesdon training skills and development to everyone time the candidate has to spend off need upskilling. This joint venture facilities. in the roofing industry. site. 26 | ROOFING today | www.roofingtoday.co.uk www.roofingtoday.co.uk | ROOFING today | 27
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