ROOFING TODAY Issue 93 March 2021
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
ROOFING
TODAY
Issue 93 March 2021
2
Contents
the net Zero priZe Winners of the UK roofing AWArds
12 24
4 neWs 24 Winners of the UK roofing AWArds
With project photos & judges comments
10 roof trAining groUp neWs
31 A neW Md for KeMper systeM
12 the net Zero priZe
Mike Wharton, complete roofing systems
32 WhAt the neW prodUct inforMAtion
14 code MeAns for roofing 32
14 Keeping the UK sUpplied sarah spink, lrWA
With nAtUrAl slAte
34 better dAtA: sAfer bUildings
steve pearson, cUpA piZArrAs
Adam turk, siderise & chair of cpA Marketing integrity group
16 enhAncing roofing MeMbrAne strength And sAfety
36 AchieVing An AttrActiVe loW pitch looK
nick King, Klober
sean Whiteside, onduline
18 perMeAble pitched roof
40 heritAge reroof reprodUces
UnderlAys
rAre sWept Welsh VAlley
John Mercer, roofing consultant
44 consider the benefits of bespoKe
20 secUring A perception of trUst to
brian bell, Marley Alutec
stAy on trAcK
18 46
Keira proctor, A proctor group 46 Why Use A drone in roofing?
toby townrow, drone evolution
22 concrete coMes oUt on top
Mark parsons, russell roof tiles 48 neWs, prodUcts, proJects & people
secUring A perception of trUst to stAy on trAcK heritAge reroof reprodUces rAre sWept Welsh VAlley
20 40
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 2021 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
Avonside Group Secures £33.5m Sheffield City Council Bid BBA Appointed Flex-R Wins CPA Consultation on New Product Information Code
A vonside Group has
successfully bid for the as an Approved Outstanding T he Construction Products
Association (CPA) has
Manufacturers, specifiers and users
of information now have an
Sheffield City Council re-roofing
programme. The company beat five
Body for UKCA Performance launched an industry-wide
consultation into a proposed Code
opportunity to comment on the new
Code, its management and policing.
other bidders to secure the contract,
which includes repair work for
Marking Award for Construction Product Information
(CCPI). CPA Chief Executive Peter
he British Board of Caplehorn said: “The importance of
approximately 5,000 properties over
a 5-year period and is believed to be T Agrément has been
appointed as an Approved Body,
F lex-R, is celebrating after
winning Carlisle Syntec’s
Outstanding Performance Award
The consultation will gather
industry views on the Code before it this new Code and consultation
one of the most significant single is formally launched later this year. process will be obvious to all those
awards of its type in Europe. Technical Assessment Body and for EPDM Sales. The working in the built environment
Notified Body (NI). waterproofing specialist has The Code has been developed
post-Grenfell. It is our responsibility
Avonside CEO Eddie Stanton said, worked with Carlisle SynTec, following Dame Judith Hackitt’s
“We are delighted to be chosen to The UK Conformity Assessed report ‘Building A Safer Future’, and as an industry to regain public trust
innovators of rubber roofing, for
work with Sheffield City Council on (UKCA) Marking is a new UK the issues facing the construction and credibility in what we do, and
over 20 years to exclusively
product mark to replace the industry following the Grenfell to demonstrate that technical
this project, and I'd like to pay distribute their USA manufactured
current CE mark in the UK. An Tower fire. The report confirmed competence can be trusted.
tribute to the professionalism of all EPDM to the UK roofing industry.
additional mark, UKNI, will be radical change was needed for
of our staff and team members who
used in Northern Ireland. This is the first time the awards construction products, particularly Over 500 responses were received “I believe the Code represents both
worked so diligently to put forward Avonside Group will use Marley commitment to the local have included companies outside in the areas of testing, information from across the industry to a a determined attempt on behalf of
our bid.” products during the first year of the community. Avonside Group’s As an Assessment Body the BBA
the USA and Flex-R has been and marketing. survey about construction product manufacturers to correct
programme, which also includes will support manufacturers with
The refurbishment work includes newly appointed Social Housing recognised after achieving the information. The survey confirmed disingenuous marketing practices
the trial installation of solar PV and conformity assessment tasks for The Code sets out how construction that for product and performance
the removal of existing coverings, Business Director, Richard largest growth in sales of the and a proactive and collaborative
battery storage to some communal their UKCA and UKNI marking product information is presented and information to be trusted, it must
checking the structure and carrying Bostock said: “Commitment to the EPDM membranes.
flats that will be contractor across a range of construction marketed by manufacturers. A new effort to address the issues
out any required repairs including local community is central to any products. be Clear, Accurate, Up-to-date,
designed. microsite dedicated to this highlighted in Dame Judith
new underlay, battens, tile/slate bid of this type. Those Accessible and Unambiguous.
consultation - These five points are the acid Hackitt’s Report.
coverings, hips, ridges, valleys, Avonside Group recognised key commitments are more important
www.buildingsafely.co.uk - explains tests that now stand behind the
renewal of eaves, fascia, verges, areas of the successful bid were than ever given the situation we The consultation closes on 31
the background for the industry to new Code.
gutters and downpipes. social responsibility and all face in the light of the review and respond to. March.
Women in Roofing Look Forward to International New HSE Chief Inspector of Buildings
Women’s Day A NEW Health and Safety
Executive (HSE) Chief
regulators and residents to shape
and deliver a world-class risk-based
Women in Roofing regulatory system for the safety and
Inspector of Buildings has been
Over the past 12 months, Women appointed to establish and lead the standards of buildings that
in Roofing has used technology to new Building Safety Regulator (BSR). residents can have confidence in
continue supporting roofing Divisional Managing Director, and that we can all be proud of.”
John Albon, Chief Scientific Duncan Winter said; “In a Peter Baker, HSE’s current Director
colleagues.
Officer at the BBA, said: “Things difficult year Flex-R achieved the of Building Safety and Construction, Peter has 30 years’ experience with
They presented a series of are changing on an almost daily 20-year milestone of supplying took up the post on 15 February, HSE as an inspector, including
webinars in 2020 focusing on the basis subsequent to the UK’s exit cold-applied roofing systems. Due 2021. HSE’s Chief Inspector of
Construction Leadership Council’s from the EU. We are fortunate to to Covid this wasn’t celebrated, Construction. Since 2017 Peter has
The government asked HSE to
Roadmap to Recovery plan, Mental not only be able to help our so receiving this award completes led HSE’s involvement in the
establish a new building safety
Health and Wellbeing, and clients with their UKCA Marking 2020 for us. Government’s Building Safety
regulator in the wake of the Grenfell
Training and Apprenticeships. requirements, but also support Commitment and Hard Work Tower disaster. This follows Programme.
The group also promoted a platform them through what has been, and recommendations in the ‘Building a
still is, a long and challenging “Winning this award recognises Safer Future’ report by Dame Judith Building Safety Regime
where people could share best lead the work to provide
transitional process.” the commitment and hard work of Hackitt.
practice to improve employee independent, expert advice to Sarah Newton, HSE’s Chair said:
Flex-R’s Technical Director Ben
wellbeing, engagement, motivation As the Chief Inspector of Buildings, industry, government, landlords “Peter has a long track record of
his year, on 8 March, Women UKCA Marking became available Midwinter and Sales Director
T in Roofing is supporting
International Woman’s Day and
is the perfect opportunity to shine
a light on the critical role of
women’s leadership throughout
and resilience while working from
home during lockdown.
on 1 January 2021 and there is
now a transitional stage where
Danny Cole in leading their teams
to continuously deliver high
Peter Baker will lead the Building
Safety Regulator to deliver the new
and residents on building safety.
Peter said: “I am honoured to be
working in partnership with
industry and other regulators to
both UKCA and CE Marking can quality EPDM projects. The regime for high risk buildings. He appointed as the first Chief bring about behavioural and culture
celebrating the tremendous efforts this period in their families, WiR are now planning new
be used. From 1 January 2022, will also oversee work to increase inspector of Buildings and for the change that improves people’s
of women and girls around the communities, their businesses and webinars to help support the company started by launching
the competence of all professionals opportunity to play a lead role in safety. His deep understanding of
world in shaping a more equal in government. Across the globe, industry, drive best practice and UKCA will be the only mark Carlisle’s EPDM, a relatively
working on buildings and ensure bringing about the biggest change assessing and managing hazards
future and recovery from the women are at the helm of the support networking opportunities. recognised to allow access to the unknown system in the UK at
effective oversight of the entire in building safety for a generation. and risk makes him ideally suited
pandemic. institutions carrying our effective UK market. CE Marking will no that time, and this award is
building safety environment.
and inclusive COVID-19 responses, They would be pleased to hear longer be recognised after that testament to our work in gaining to shape and lead the
International Women’s Day theme “I look forward to working with
from the highest levels of decision- your suggestions to help shape the date. acceptance within the industry.” Peter will also be the first head of government, industry, partner implementation of the new
this year is #ChoosetoChallenge. It
making to frontline service delivery. agenda. Email info@winr.org.uk the building control profession, and building safety regime”
4 | ROOFING today | www.roofingtoday.co.uk www.roofingtoday.co.uk | ROOFING today |5
5
News
Roof Tile MD 100 Students Complete New Swansea
Celebrates 30 Year Scaffolding Centre Training
Long Service Milestone
he managing director of roof tile
T manufacturer, Russell Roof Tiles, (RRT) is
celebrating a major milestone.
M ore than 100 learners have passed
through the Construction Industry
programme of development that is due to be
completed in Wales over the next few years.
Training Board’s (CITB) new Welsh
“Despite the lockdown, there have been a lot of
Andrew Hayward joined RRT 30 years ago as a scaffolding centre in its first three months.
applicants to train and plenty of enquiries from
Sales Executive. During his career, Andrew has The £1.5 million training facility, at the people looking to pursue a rewarding career in
seen the business grow, from a £9m turnover, Construction Wales Innovation Centre construction.”
single plant operation in Scotland to the (CWIC) in Swansea, has trained students
opening of the Burton on Trent site which Since opening in October, some 27 construction
looking to move into the scaffolding sector.
produced its first tiles in 1991, to today with a apprentices have completed their studies at the
dedicated UPVC site and a turnover of £30m. Gareth Wyn Evans, CWIC Centre Manager, centre, along with 36 students looking to further
said: “CWIC’s activities have already their training in the field. With many more
With previous technical and sales experience, supported hundreds of employers in the students currently working towards their
Andrew swiftly moved up the ranks as an construction industry across Wales. Our commercial scaffolding qualifications, it is
Area, then Regional Manager, before becoming unique partnership is delivering world-class expected that around 350 students will pass
National Sales Director in 1996 and then training and bespoke programmes for this through the centre in its first year.
taking over the helm as managing director in hugely important sector to the Welsh
2004. Under his leadership the business has This spring will also see the launch of a “Get
economy.
grown with ongoing investment including, into Scaffolding” initiative which will support
most recently, a £1.7m capital investment CITB’s Gareth Williams, said: “This new those looking to change careers, including those
project in Lochmaben. centre provides training for the essential who have lost their jobs due to the pandemic,
skills needed to fulfil the ambitious with funded training and work opportunities.
Andrew has also led the business through
various ownership, following the sale of the
business by CEMEX in 2011 to current
owners, Crown Global Equity Group which has
interests in roof tiles in the US and Mexico. SIG Roofing Opens New Slough Branch
The 10,288sq ft newly refurbished premises are
Andrew commented: “Over the past 30 years
located on the Slough Trading Estate close to J6
Russell Roof Tiles has succeeded despite three
of the M4 and will stock a range of everyday and
recessions and now a global pandemic. Much
specialist roofing products.
has happened in our industry since 1990, from
the day-to-day way we work manufacturing, to Investment
how products are specified and installed on
sites. Today we are faster, more efficient and Opened on 1 February, 2021, the project marked
have grown capacity innovatively to meet the continuation of a company-wide drive to
market demand. improve local services by investing in facilities
and increasing the number of specialist staff.
“After a rollercoaster year following the impact Seven employees are based at the branch with
of the Covid-19 pandemic, I am pleased to be more than 60 years’ experience between them in
celebrating this milestone and proud to be able the roofing supply sector.
to lead such a passionate and successful team. IG UK is continuing to invest in its
We’re looking forward to the future with the
ambition of achieving a turnover of £40m
S branch and staff structure with the
opening of a new SIG Roofing site in
The site includes two new 18ft SIG liveried
lorries, increasing capacity and speed of
within the next 5 years.” Slough, Berkshire. deliveries.
6 | ROOFING today | www.roofingtoday.co.uk
12
News
Fire at BLM British Lead Welwyn Site Roofing Firm Named Member of the
Guild of Master Craftsmen
fire broke out at BLM British injured, and also that the rest of
A Lead’s manufacturing facility the equipment and the remainder
amily firm, Old Plean Roofing aim of improving industry standards
on Peartree Lane in Welwyn Garden
City at lunchtime, on 16 February
of the facility have not been
damaged or impacted. Our F has been admitted to the
Guild of Master Craftsmen.
and offering local people an honest,
efficient roofing service with a high
2021. emergency response plan was
immediately activated, and we are level of competency.
The facility refines scrap lead for The company, run by Mark and
grateful to the emergency services Fiona Thornton, is the first “It’s wonderful to be recognised for
resale. Over 85 people work at the
for their effective response. Scottish specialist roofing firm in the work we are doing and to
site, (with some currently working
from home), but no one was hurt. “While the area of the plant seven years to be accredited by the receive this seal of approval from an
serviced by the baghouse will Guild in recognition of its high organisation as prestigious as the
Ten fire engines, police and standards and expertise. Guild of Master Craftsmen.”
remain closed for repairs, our main
specialist support units attended the
business remains unimpacted by The team, based in Old Plean, Mark adds: “I’ve always been
blaze, asking local people to avoid
the interruption and the plant has Stirling, say they are honoured to passionate about roofing and
the area. A spokesperson for
resumed normal operations today gain membership of the achieving the highest possible
Hertfordshire Fire Service said over
with all employees returning to organisation, which represents standards for our industry.
50 firefighters worked “incredibly
work.” modern and traditional
hard to tackle a technically difficult “We pride ourselves on our
craftspeople and promotes
fire.” The baghouse, where the fire reputation and so I’m thrilled we’ve
excellence and integrity.
started on the site, is where been granted this accreditation.”
BLM British Lead was quick to
emissions are filtered from the lead Fiona said: “We’re delighted to
assure the roofing industry that The team at Old Plean Roofing was
casting and rolling process, which have been awarded this
production of lead will be unaffected. selected for membership of the
involves smelting at temperatures accreditation which reflects the
A spokesperson said, “A fire Guild, the UK’s oldest trade
up to 4500. standards we have always aimed
occurred and was contained in the association, following a vetting
for and the type of high-quality
baghouse on the periphery of our The baghouse was a new facility procedure which included customer
roofing and customer service we offer.
facility. We are pleased to report completed in April 2020. references and an assessment of
that all of our employees were Investigations have started into “When we launched the business their workmanship and business
accounted for and no one was how the fire began. two years ago, we did so with the practices.
Charity Offers Support Pack for Workers Suffering a Fall from Height
he No Falls Foundation is The free pack covers: For those who have experienced the
T offering a Support Pack
q What to do immediately;
loss of a loved one as a result of a fall
from height, the pack also provides
signposting organisations and
resources that can provide advice details of those organisations that
q What financial assistance may
can offer help and support.
and assistance following a fall from be available;
height in the workplace. Charity manager, Hannah Williams
q How to begin a personal injury said: “What should have been a
The pack includes details of the claim; perfectly normal day has ended in a
charity’s Ambassadors who have potentially life-shattering accident.
all faced the aftermath and q Support with transport and What do you do now? Who can you
consequences of a fall themselves. home adaptations; turn to? What help is available? The
They are available to provide pack attempts to answer these
q Using the No Falls befriending
advice and guidance to anyone questions and provides contact
The UK charity is dedicated to service;
experiencing the traumatic effects details for the Foundation."
preventing falls from height and
of a fall and wondering what to do helping people affected by the q Organisations that can help The Support Packs are available from
next. life-changing consequences of a fall. with issues of mental health. www.nofallsfoundation.org
8 | ROOFING today | www.roofingtoday.co.uk
7
Roofing Training Group News
WNRTG Launches Built Up Felt Upskilling Course with Langley Waterproofing
elivery of a 10-day CITB been requesting training for the past
D module Upskilling
Programme has begun by Langley
three years to encourage our
younger generation to train to
Waterproofing Systems Ltd, in become flat roofers. As all who
partnership with Wales National currently work in the industry
Roof Training Group (WNRTG). understand, this is what we can
only regard as a dying trade.
Langley Training Manager, Craig
Haddon who is delivering the “It’s amazing to think about the
program, explained that it has apprentice guidance and job
taken a lot of work to get the opportunities that will become
courses up and running in Wales available should this course become
due to the ongoing pandemic a success.
crisis government guidelines. “It’s also excellent to finally see
upskilling a success in Wales. The
Commitment from employers
WNRTG and Langley teams have
CITB Approved Training assessment to gain their Blue
Craig said, “The first cohort of six worked extremely hard to finalise
Organisation Skilled Worker CSCS card.
learners is an example of the course and we wish them every
commitment from employers in As a CITB-approved training J Randall Roofing Contractors Ltd success.”
organization, Langley are excited by the new launch of
Wales that if roof training is made Each course can be fully funded by
Waterproofing wrote these Built Up the Built up Roofing Course
available then they are committed completing the Skills and Training
Felt roofing courses on behalf of becoming available at the
to upskilling their workforce.” WNRTG Training centre in Fund application form.
CITB for employers and is able to
The 10-day program, run over 2 deliver them in Wales as individual Caerphilly. For further information on any of the
months consists of 10 CITB short courses or as a block program. RBM training courses and help with
Monique Jones, Operations &
duration modules that are On completion of the modules, Business Development Manager funding please contact Lesley
currently available on the CITB successful candidates will go on to at J Randall Roofing said, “South Hughes, WNRTG on 07817 641 984
website. complete a Level 2 NVQ via on site Wales roofing companies have or Email: lesley.hughes@wnrtg.co.uk.
North West Roof Training Group Looks Forward to Spring Developments
nce again, in the run-up to that the Training Group Model of
O spring, the North West Roof
Training Group (NWRTG) starts
support and network is highly
valued by employers, so a newly
on the theme of apprenticeships. developed and updated funding
The national lockdown caused a model has been developed. Roof
delay in the start of the new Flat Training Groups along with
Roofing Trailblazer. However, if all groups from other specialist
goes as predicted, the 12 sectors, however, have to wait a
apprentices will start their journey little longer for specific details to
in late March, with Langley be agreed and announced. The
Waterproofing, and Simian, North West group has an active
Warrington, sharing the training core of members, with
provision. opportunities and membership
Keane Walton of Complete Roofing Systems spoke confidently about his roofing
National Apprenticeship apprenticeship and earning whilst learning. open to all, the group says.
Week Most members are SMEs who
of Complete Roofing Systems with around nine months
The NWRTG’s seven day speaking confidently about the experience of RBM, training will value the services NWRTG
involvement with National take place over two separate provides, which include sourcing
benefits of being an apprentice and
Apprenticeship Week, (#NAW2021 weeks and could lead to NVQ2 and arranging training, be it
how he “loves earning whilst
on social media), brought more via the On-Site Assessment & health and safety, upskilling, or
learning.”
than a 300% increase in the Training (OSAT) route. apprenticeships, etc. However,
training group’s profile visits, so Upskilling with a CITB annual grant of
their efforts at increasing the CITB Consultation £28,000, to cover the running
profile of the roofing sector were a Upskilling for ‘improvers’ in flat As the CITB consultation on costs, there’s little room, and
success. Culminating in roofing will take place in training groups draws to a close, indeed, employer time, to include
#LOVEAPPRENTICESHIPS, Warrington, to meet group the organization advises that the much training of a technical
NWRTG showcased Keane Walton members’ demand. Aimed at those majority of respondents believe nature, NWRTG states.
10 | ROOFING today | www.roofingtoday.co.uk
Retrofit Roofing
The Net Zero Prize: To achieve real change needs more
than a government grant, it needs a
change in behaviour; a real desire
heat pumps (compared to boilers),
can provide similar heat to houses,
roof measures must be in place by
In a joint foreword to the study,
Construction Leadership Council
co-chair Andy Mitchell and Trade
and innovation – then a
healthier, more sustainable
balance now needs to be
the biggest retrofit opportunity
to reduce emissions. around 2032, less than 11 years Union Congress president Gail restored.”
away. In 2018, roofing industry net Cartmail write:
In roofing, we need to improve This is an admirable, but
output was £3.8bn, of which £1.5bn
insulation, which is in much of the “The report acknowledges that breathtakingly naïve aim in the
the industry will ever have?
was RMI. We can safely assume
old UK housing stock and is either subcontracting and self- current and immediate future
that we are talking several billion a
inadequate or missing. Even the employment remain essential construction climate. We are facing
year in roof work for replacement,
many thousands of new ‘red box’ features of electrical the perfect storm of reverse charge
insulation etc., to meet these goals.
type houses are still being built contracting and other parts of VAT, the skills gap and a failing
with gas boilers, in a race for The skills gap has been well- construction. Over recent industry training body which has
margin to increase shareholder documented, and in this regard the decades, however, the balance just undergone yet another major
value rather than applying joined-up Construction Industry Training has been allowed to tip too far restructure. There is no movement
thinking to truly address the net Board (CITB) appears to be at sea. away from direct employment. If on retention removal and
zero target. Add to this the press reports the industry’s and the legislation, due to a familiar “lack
regarding the recently released government’s priorities for this of consensus between main
But the issue is a lack of any kind
Direct Employment study (based on and future decades are to be contractors and specialists” (who
of true collaboration across the
the electrical sector but with many achieved – for example, in knew?!). Yet, on the other side, we
roofing sector and government, or
parallels to other specialist sectors). safety, quality, skills, efficiency, have quite possibly the biggest
an agreed single path of travel to
achieving emissions targets. It is all opportunity the industry will ever
too disparate. Post Grenfell, we have in terms of retrofit to achieve
know that there will be a new body net zero. BEIS has put the figure at
for high risk (high rise) buildings. £70bn per year as the cost to
Even as the Green Homes Grant is throwing up various obstacles, roofing contractors
There is strong suspicion that this achieve net zero, yet GHG is
are set to struggle with numerous other issues this year. Yet, Mike Wharton, CEO of capped at £2bn for the next year
body will eventually widen to all of
Complete Roofing Systems argues, the roofing sector should keep its eye on the construction. Will it replace and will then (almost certainly) end.
bigger prize and look to the opportunities of Net Zero 2050. Building Control? Let’s hope so, if
For the UK to achieve net zero
the make-up of it is appropriate and
2050, roofing must be at the
the correct expertise is employed.
forefront of, not coffee and biscuits
t’s been well documented in wider economic gloom and strained
I We have several chefs stirring the discussion, but action to a tight
the press that the Green relations with the EU. It’s easy to pot: we have the recommendations timeline. Roofing is both a large
Homes Grant (GHG) system is see why many firms are from the Each Home Counts report; enough industry to achieve, but a
not running to plan. There have concentrating on weathering the we have the British Board of compact enough industry to
been myriad articles about the level current storms rather than Agremont, the Construction
We have the manufacturers, the distributors collaborate right through the supply
of applicants, low voucher numbers, concerning themselves about Products Association, The chain. We have the manufacturers,
lack of settled claims, and other
and the contractors, together with strong
matters, such as gaining Department for Business, Energy the distributors and the contractors,
issues concerning the US-based accreditation for PAS2030, the base and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) and relationships across all these areas. There is no together with strong relationships
administrator. There has much talk line requirement to be part of the industry. If each of these areas across all these areas. There is no
in the industry about the apparent GHG. If immediate change is not aligned, we could have a truly reason why roofing cannot lead on retrofit, reason why roofing cannot lead on
complexity and required made, GHG is likely to fail, and fail exciting future for the sector in retrofit, and the prize is one never
accreditations of the scheme. And spectacularly. The basis is there to terms of the benefits to roofing and the prize is one never likely to be repeated. likely to be repeated. |||
that’s not to mention the fact that make it work, but the lack of through retrofit. But it must all be
many contractors which carry out consultation with industry has simplified, or else we will end up in
domestic work are already working meant that the process to become a Carillion-esque world where Tier
at capacity, and will be for some an installer is far too complex and If immediate change is not made, the Green 1’s end up controlling the whole
time. The Treasury has committed expensive. process and subcontract work to
£2 billion to the scheme which is Homes Grant is likely to fail, and fail the specialist sectors, with all the
due to end in March 2022. The Bigger Prize negativity which will come hand in
If we look further out, at the UK spectacularly. The basis is there to make it hand with that. We cannot allow
At the time of writing, via a letter
Net Zero target of 2050, this could this to happen.
from Jesse Norman, Financial work, but the lack of consultation with
Secretary to the Treasury, the well be the much bigger prize for The roof is such a key element of
government has confirmed the go the industry. The four highest- industry has meant that the process to become any building; it protects the overall
ahead for another initiative, that of emitting sectors are transport, asset and everything within. It
reverse charge VAT. The negative energy supply (generating an installer is far too complex and expensive. retains heat, prevents condensation,
cashflow effect from this has the electricity from burning fuels such diverts (or if desired, retains) water.
potential to decimate the industry as coal, oil and natural gas), emissions remain largely At present our voice is simply not
Since 1990, the energy-supply
and cause an economic stop to the business (commercial use of loud enough. Especially so since,
sector has significantly reduced its unchanged and history tells us from
very industry which kickstarted the electricity), and residential (heating according to the Climate Change
homes). Together these account for emissions as a result of phasing failed initiatives (Green Deal Committee, to realistically see
economy during the pandemic. Add
in to this, sharp materials price around 78% of current emissions, out coal and increasing the use of anyone?) that decarbonising these emissions from housing on the
increases (with more to come), a according to the Institute for renewables, such as wind and areas will represent far more of a down slope to net zero for 2050, and
significant drop in exports causing Government. solar. In the residential market, challenge. to ensure the weaker output from Picture: Viridian Solar
12 | ROOFING today | www.roofingtoday.co.uk www.roofingtoday.co.uk | ROOFING today | 13
20
Slate Roofing
Keeping the UK Supplied with Natural
Slate A combination of factors has meant that the UK roofing industry continues
to face issues with the supply of key materials. Here, Steve Pearson, Country
Director at Cupa Pizarras UK looks at the current situation and how the
company has responded to the challenges of recent months.
n the November 2020 edition of lead times on many of our ranges Despite all this, our supply of
I Roofing Today, the significant
shortages of materials
contractors were facing was
are now close to normal.
However, these potential issues
were complicated by the global
Undeniably, the UK
transitioning from the
natural slate in the UK has
remained largely resilient,
especially compared to other roofing
reported, with roofing products such nature of supply and the fact that EU has had an impact materials. We do not rely on the
as tiles, insulation and timber under other countries saw the same import of materials from Asia – a
particular pressure. This was the increase in demand for materials. on the industry. supply line that has experienced
first of several reports and while As an example, the US is a serious disruption – and most of the
post-Brexit requirements may be significant consumer of timber, so import issues are now resolved. It is
contributing to issues that have quarry is a significant achievement also worth noting that the delays at
the global shortages and price rises
made headlines since Roofing are in part due to the sharp in the slate industry as the number major ports that made headline
Today’s investigation, the situation increase in demand there. Similarly, of quarries has declined news have not been seen on the
is yet more complicated. France is the biggest purchaser of dramatically over the past 10 to 15 same scale at all ports, with most
Many of the material shortages slate in the world, followed closely years. Overall, we are producing functioning close to normal. At
began to be felt before we ended the by the UK, so increases in slates at a higher rate than ever Cupa Pizarras, the lead time on our
EU transition period and were in construction activity here and in and in a greater variety of different slate is around two to three weeks.
part due to the crisis year that was France put pressure on supply types, selections and sizes. We are seeing just a one to two day
2020. During the initial stages of the globally. In some cases, distributors increase in travel times from the
Undeniably, the UK transitioning
pandemic many production facilities had to make a decision on how to point of production to merchants,
from the EU has had an impact on
were forced to suspend operations, allocate the slate provided to them, due to the new import rules.
the industry, especially during
including those of Cupa Pizarras in with the result that certain January as everyone in the supply Finally, our advice to contractors is
Spain, which were closed for around products became unavailable. chain got to grips with the new that there is no cause for serious
eight weeks. This meant that the processes and documentation. It
At Cupa Pizarras, we control every concern. They should contact their
quantity of materials produced was has also added some further
part of the supply chain from the local merchant about future
reduced compared to a normal year. requirements that did not exist
quarry onwards, enabling us to requirements and plan ahead as far
The demand for materials then ensure a reliable supply of the before. For example, we needed to as possible. By doing this they can
surged in the second half of the year products to our merchant replace our wooden packaging ensure any increased lead time does
as sites reopened. As factories customers. We have also opened an crates with ones that are made
not cause delays and affect the
began operating again with new from certified heat-treated wood as
additional quarry dedicated to timeframe of projects. Cupa Pizarras
part of the bio-security measures in
safety measures in place, some producing CUPA 22 slate for sale area managers are working closely
place for products exported out of
manufacturers were able to respond exclusively in the UK. The decision with both the production facility
the EU. As Cupa Pizarras has
by increasing production. For to make this investment was made and merchants to coordinate orders
experience trading across all five
example, we introduced a two-shift around 18 months ago and
continents we had the skills and and minimise any issues. |||
system in our facilities to replace thankfully we are now seeing the Find out more about the Cupa Pizarras
expertise to handle these new
lost production time. As a result, the benefits. The opening of a new range: www.cupapizarras.com/uk/.
requirements effectively.
14 | ROOFING today | www.roofingtoday.co.uk
9
Underlays in Roofing
Enhancing Roofing Membrane Strength
and Safety
When selecting a breathable roofing membrane, the quality, performance and installation
benefits need to be carefully considered. Nick King, Portfolio Manager at Klober, discusses the
value of four-layer breathable membranes, which include reinforced grids, to offer increased
strength and durability during the installation process, in addition to excellent performance.
ith a variety of roofing membrane’s primary purpose is to
W membranes on the
market, selecting the
best solution needs careful
support the roof covering in
withstanding wind load and stop
any water ingress into the roof
consideration. Excellent quality, space. It also has an important
performance and meeting the function in controlling
required specification are all, of condensation in the roofspace and
course, important. However, the roofers will need to select the air
strength and added-value assurance and vapour permeable properties of
of stronger membranes, which are
the membranes used with careful
designed to provide a secondary
reference to manufacturer’s
safety support measure during
specification information.
installation, also offer valuable
benefits. Breathable four-layer For roof spaces that are required to
membranes offer excellent be air tight, underlays with integral
performance and increased tapes should be considered to
strength, both priorities for certain minimise air leakage. Fitted self-
projects. adhesive strips also provide
What is a four-layer exceptional water tightness as well
membrane? as protection against wind loads.
Roofers are now used to checking
The vast majority of breathable the zonal performance of
membranes consist of three layers
membranes. Under BS 5534 different
— a fleece top layer, a membrane
regions, depending on the weather
middle, and a bottom fleece layer. Selecting a membrane with a reinforced grid and wind conditions of the roof’s
There are options however that
helps to provide superior strength and added particular location, will require
include an additional fourth layer,
in the form of a reinforced grid, different zonal performance criteria,
which is introduced to enhance the safety benefits. with one being the minimum and
strength of the underlay and five the maximum rating. Our Permo
penetrating the membrane with of both worlds, by retaining the Forte with integral tape, for
supports installation.
their foot or dropping tools through strength of a more substantial example, is certified for wind zones
What are the benefits? the membrane. This may only membrane but avoiding the bulk. one-five, which makes it suitable
happen rarely but when it does, the for use nationwide. It means roofers
Selecting a membrane with a It must be remembered that while a
time taken to patch repair and can keep it in stock knowing that it
reinforced grid helps to provide strong membrane with a reinforced
superior strength and added safety recover tools adds time to the grid can be extremely beneficial to will be ideal for all projects.
benefits. This has advantages project, not to mention the maximising safety, it is not a
potential safety hazards. replacement for primary on-site
Staying safe
across all project types, but is
especially pertinent for re-roofing It is a common misconception that safety procedures. It is vital that all Paying close attention to strength
projects, where there may be access the thicker the membrane, the guidance and regulations, such as and safety are both vital
and space limitations due to the HSE’s free download, Health and considerations when selecting any
better the strength. In fact, a very
nature of particular refurbishment Safety in Roof Work building construction product, and
thick membrane on its own may
projects. In these scenarios, having [https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/ in terms of the roofing membrane
not be as strong as a thinner
the grid helps to provide extra grip books/hsg33.htm] is followed when
membrane combined with a this is no exception. Not only can a
for roofing operatives and safety working at height.
reinforced grid. Also, thicker four-layer membrane help to support
reassurance during the installation safe installation, these types of
membranes can be more rigid and As well as providing peace of mind
process.
so less manoeuvrable making them during the installation process, it is membranes can also offer peak
Having a reinforced grid combined harder to work with. Selecting a important that any breathable performance advantages to ensure
with a membrane can help to membrane with a built-in grid membrane chosen provides top quality results each and every
minimise the risk of a roofer allows contractors to have the best excellent performance. The time. |||
16 | ROOFING today | www.roofingtoday.co.uk
Underlays in Roofing
Permeable Pitched Roof
resulting in dislodgement of the Vapour-permeable underlays
tiles. The underlay must be of
For a vapour-permeable underlay
sufficient strength to resist these
installed in a cold roof, the level of
Underlays
uplift forces; therefore, it is
ventilation depends on the type of
important use a type appropriate for
ceiling, that is, less ventilation is
the design of building and,
required if the ceiling is well-
importantly, its location.
sealed. BS 5250 recommends a
John Mercer, Roofing Consultant Manufacturers classify their minimum eaves ventilation of only
underlays by their geographic 3mm, though, in practice, this
nderlays that allow the stage, before tiles are laid, and Underlay laid unsupported, that is tape between the counter battens
U passage of water vapour
through them are
commonly referred to as
when the roof is tiled.
Not only may rainwater and snow
laid directly over rafters, must be
draped between the rafters to
allow water to flow between the
and underlay.
It is important to ensure the
location and wind zone in the form
of a UK Zonal Classification Table
on the packaging. The UK is
divided into 5 wind zones, with
Figure1
would be 10mm due to the ready
availability of 10mm eaves vents
(see illustration fig1). Alternatively,
5mm ridge ventilation can be
‘breathable’ underlays. However, penetrate the tiling during underlay is watertight at roof
extreme weather conditions, but tile battens and underlay, and junctions. At hips, the underlay lowest wind speed, Zone 1, being installed. If the ceiling is unsealed,
there are different types of
drain to the gutters. At low roof centred around London and the then ridge ventilation should be
‘breather’ membranes, so it is water can also be present in the on one side of the hip should be
pitches, or long rafter lengths, or south of England, up to Zone 5 installed in conjunction with eaves
rather confusing to simply refer to batten cavity in the form of lapped over the hip and over the
covering the north of Scotland. ventilation.
an underlay as breathable; some condensation, as water vapour exposed locations, it is advisable underlay on the other side. At
are vapour-permeable, and some passes through the underlay from to consider installing counter valleys, the underlay should be Thirdly, though equally relevant, the For a warm roof with a
are air and vapour-permeable. inside the building. battens with a bituminous nail lapped over the sides of the valley underlay and ceiling construction well-sealed ceiling, roof space
play important roles in controlling ventilation is not required (figure 2).
condensation in the roof space, If the ceiling is unsealed, then
Underlay, regardless directly influencing the amount and 25mm ventilation at eaves and
position of roof space ventilation. 5mm at ridge is required, with a
of its type, should clear air path from eaves to ridge
provide a completely How the underlay influences Figure2
between the underlay and
ventilation requirements insulation.
waterproof barrier to
BS 5250: the British Standard Code Air and vapour-permeable
prevent water from of practice for control of BS 5250: the British Standard Code of practice underlay
condensation in buildings, gives Air-permeable underlay
entering the practical recommendations for the for control of condensation in buildings, gives constructions are currently not
building. This is installation of ventilation, taking defined in BS 5250; therefore, it is
account of underlay and ceiling
practical recommendations for the installation
important to refer to their Agrément
important both at types. of ventilation, taking account of underlay and Certificates and manufacturer’s
Domestic ceiling construction installation instructions. They
construction stage, ceiling types. generally require less, or no
generally falls into two categories:
before tiles are laid, additional roof space ventilation.
1) Well-sealed (continuous): means
and when the roof is there is an efficient air and
Summary
vapour control layer (AVCL) and q When choosing an underlay,
tiled. all joints, junctions and make sure its wind uplift
penetrations through the ceiling resistance is adequate for the
For a technical distinction, BS are sealed to prevent as much location and building.
lining to drain any water into the
5534 defines an underlay with a air and water vapour from
valley. At top and side q Identify the type of ceiling, ie
low resistance to the passage of passing through the ceiling as
abutments, the underlay should well sealed or unsealed, as
water vapour (LR) as one with a possible. BS 9250 gives
be turned up the abutment by at this has an influence on the
water vapour resistance of not practical advice on how to
least 50 mm; and at eaves, the roof space ventilation
more than 0.25 MN s/g. An air design and construct a well-
underlay should be fully requirements.
permeable underlay is defined as sealed ceiling, defined as
supported behind the fascia or tilt having an air-permeability of
one having an air permeability of q Carefully follow the underlay
fillet to prevent water ponding19
Perceptions of Roofing
Securing a Perception of Trust to
Stay on Track
Assessing the current state of affairs for the industry, here Keira Proctor, MD of A Proctor
Group argues that it’s not just resolving the cladding crisis that’s important. It’s also vital
to address the challenge of the public’s perception of the industry as a whole.
fter a tumultuous 2020, the trust deficit is a challenge that While the leaky condos’ technical construction industry lacks ethics
A construction industry has
cause for optimism once
again. Not only are the number of
every sector must address.
One needs only to remember the
‘leaky condos’ in British Columbia,
problems could be resolved
relatively quickly, it was the
personal disruption and passing on
can hardly be a surprise.
The UK’s construction industry is
on the brink of transformation, but
UK housing starts and completions
Canada to understand why of refurbishment costs to 50,000 in allowing public trust to wane,
bouncing back to pre-lockdown
preserving a positive public image homeowners and tenants that still whether over the industry’s
levels, but so-called ‘new’
technologies like SIPs and CLT is important. The biggest point of persists as a grudge in the Canadian direction, competence or moral
constructions are now becoming learning from the almost 20-year public’s mind today. compass, we risk stifling the
commonplace in the market. affair was not contained in the momentum we have built up.
Compare this to the situation in the
technical inquiry that followed. Nurturing public support will go a
High performing membranes have UK today, of owners and occupiers long way to properly bringing
Interestingly, the then-new external
been key to making modern living in blocks of flats covered in innovative construction materials
insulation panel technology was
methods of construction (MMC) a highly combustible cladding. These and modern methods of
not found to be responsible. Rather,
success. Membranes are intricately residents live in fear, and face the
“building processes and poor construction into the mainstream.
linked to a building’s energy impossible demand of being asked
efficiency and hygrothermal application of building science” Digital Era
were deemed to be the culprits. to front the costs of refurbishments
performance. As such, they will
However, in reality, it was the themselves, which few can afford. For a sector that is often accused of
continue to play a leading role in
the industry’s ability to move consequent long term public At the same time, they are unable to moving too slowly, the disruption
forward towards more sustainable skepticism about the wider sell their property to move their of Covid-19 has catapulted
and energy efficient models of construction industry that can be families somewhere safer. The construction into the digital era,
construction. considered more significant. YouGov poll’s finding that the and I believe for the better.
Significantly, we are witnessing
While the momentum of the MMC the industry moving away from the
sector is high, the industry needs to While the momentum of the MMC sector is
labour-intensive techniques of the
first successfully negotiate the high, the industry needs to first successfully past and embracing the efficiency
current public relations mess to and quality control of modern
keep it on track. negotiate the current public relations mess to methods. The adaptation and
Public Perception uptake of digital support services
keep it on track.
and communications platforms
The post-Grenfell world has turned between manufacturers and
the spotlight on our industry. While specifiers has also been impressive.
the result has been an arguably
much-needed re-examination of the With a strong salesforce presence
procurement and construction in the UK, the A. Proctor Group
process, the tragedy’s ongoing was required to modify our face-to-
inquiry is understandably impacting face strategy into a comprehensive
the public’s perception of digital support system in 2020 to be
construction professionals and there for our customers whether in
material manufacturers in a negative their home offices or on site. An
way. education vs. sales-pitch approach
In an August 2020 YouGov poll, allowed us to connect, not just
1,600 people were asked: “To what with our customers but the wider
extent are building and construction public, through a vast library of on
companies behaving in an ethical demand technical resources
way?” The majority of respondents including educational webinars
said either ‘not very ethical’ or ‘not and virtual toolbox talks. Easily
ethical at all’. Importantly, the accessible educational tools
question does not differentiate designed to help our customers
specific construction sectors (such navigate an uncertain post-Covid
as commercial vs. residential) or landscape will go some way to
roles (such as contractors vs. reassuring them and securing their
suppliers), which indicates today’s trust in the future. |||
20 | ROOFING today | www.roofingtoday.co.uk13
Pitched Roofing
Concrete Comes Out On Top
Whilst clay tiles have been used on roofs for centuries, concrete tiles have become more widespread
over the last half century. Concrete tiles now account for around 70 per cent of the market and are
used widely as a standard material across the UK. Mark Parsons, Technical Director at Russell Roof
Tiles explores the benefits of concrete tiles in an industry where it is sometimes overlooked.
oncrete roof tiles are a long compressive strength. The
C
Social housing, extra care and commercial
life, durable product that versatility of concrete allows for an
require minimal projects are investing in concrete roof tiles – authentic slate or clay effect roof tile
maintenance once installed. The combined with offering greater
size, shape and weight of concrete
as they combine weather resistance, low strength. Using modern techniques
tiles are controlled using modern now enables manufacturers like us
maintenance, sustainable credentials and to replicate the traditional character
methods of manufacturing.
cost savings. of regional clay colours and profiles,
As concrete has become a standard but with all the long term added
material on roofing across the UK, benefits of concrete.
Russell Roof Tiles is seeing the
increase across a wide range of Dry Fix
different sectors. Social housing, Dry fix is particularly compatible
extra care and commercial projects with using concrete roof tiles. Dry
are investing in concrete roof tiles – fix systems must fully comply with
as they combine weather resistance, BS 8612: the British Standard for dry
low maintenance, sustainable fixed ridge, hip and verge systems.
credentials and cost savings. It is This means ridge, hip and dry verge
clear that when using concrete roof systems are durable and
tiles, re-roofing is less frequent due weathertight and will resist wind
to the performance aspects of the loads forecast to be exceeded only
manufactured product. once in any 50-year period.
Sustainable Credentials Looking ahead to 2021
Concrete roof tiles are not just Covid-19 has placed an immense
strong and durable, they can lay pressure on the construction supply
claim to sustainable credentials too. chain in the UK. As the 12 month
The manufacturing process uses mark approaches since all
considerably less energy when manufacturing halted overnight –
compared with clay counterparts producers are still playing catch up
because extensive power is required to generate stocks to meet
for firing clay in a 1,000+ºC kiln for increasing demand. Despite ceasing
up to 48 hours. Concrete tiles are manufacture, Russell Roof Tiles was
cured at a much lower temperature quickly able to restart which has
– in the region of 55ºC – and for a meant that we have been able to
shorter period of time, of around 24 maintain good lead times and fulfil
hours. By comparison, this equates a growing order book.
to an energy saving of up to 30 per At Russell Roof Tiles delivery times
cent of that required for clay tiles are around four to six weeks
production. depending on the product, while
Moreover, a thinner leading-edge Fixtures and Fittings Roofing guidelines and standards many others in the market are
tile uses 15 per cent less raw are continually evolving to meet the looking at longer lead times. The
Concrete roof tiles and fittings are
materials than a standard concrete evolving weather conditions and roof tile industry is catching up after
manufactured in accordance with
need for sustainability. It is a significant period of disrupted
roof tile, and the product has less BS EN 490, the European Standard
important that fixtures and fittings production – but the capacity is
depth. This also means that around for concrete roof tiles and fittings. It
are catered for in these guidelines – strong and normal supply will soon
20 per cent more tiles can be packed sets out criteria for the
giving assurance that concrete roof be resumed. |||
onto a pallet, which results in a manufacturing process and BS EN
much lower carbon footprint for 491 provides the required test tiles and accessories provide a Russell Roof tiles is an independent
pitched roof tile manufacturer providing
transportation. As product methods. Product Standards are robust and reliable roofing solution.
UK house builders and high-profile social
development has evolved, the generally performance-based rather housing and commercial projects, where
Versatility
evidence suggests that concrete roof than being prescriptive, to allow for sustainability and eco-credentials are of
the utmost priority. It is committed to
tiles are a far more sustainable innovation of products and Concrete is the most attractive
sourcing responsibly throughout the
option. materials. construction material in terms of supply chain.
22 | ROOFING today | www.roofingtoday.co.ukYou can also read
