Interpon powder coatings help Hydro Building Systems Spain construct a new future in sustainability 

 

Hydro Building Systems Spain, a global manufacturer of aluminum profile systems, is extending its 20-year partnership with AkzoNobel and using the innovative Interpon Anodic range to give architects and designers more choice and flexibility than ‘traditional’ anodizing, with reduced environmental implications and cost.

 

As an Interpon Approved Applicator for many years, Hydro Building Systems Spain was already familiar with the support Interpon provides to its global operations. Now it was looking for further support to move away from anodizing, both because it had to be outsourced and because of its harmful effect on the environment.

 

Arantxa Oritz Barredo, Hydro Building Systems Spain Purchasing and Powder Management, says that with the Interpon Anodic range, Hydro can create the appearance of an anodized finish, but in a powder coating, and produce it in-house:

“The metallic effect finishes we are capable of creating are superb, and very well-received by our customers,” she says. “The quality of finish is further guaranteed by industry-leading warranties, and Interpon’s accreditation to Qualicoat Class I and II.”

 

Hydro is respected for its pioneering work in sustainability and started working with AkzoNobel after building a new manufacturing site in Spain at the start of the new millennium. Today it offers a choice of more than 175 different Interpon powder coatings in a range of colors and finishes. The Interpon D team works closely with Hydro Building Systems Spain to ensure its finishes are always on trend, enabling the client to build its own library of additional, bespoke colors from which its customers can choose.

 

As well as multiple colors, Hydro Building Systems Spain also offers powder coatings with imaginative textures and finishes and different levels of durability. This is important to protect surfaces from some of the more challenging climates to which Hydro Building Systems Spain’s products may be exposed, ensuring their color integrity and performance is maintained for many years to come.

 

Sanal Limoncuoglu, Regional Commercial Director for SEEMEA, says that proximity to the customer is important:

“Hydro Building Systems Spain benefits from AkzoNobel’s local manufacturing presence and knows that the quality of the Interpon powder coatings it uses is consistent everywhere. It is this consistency, and our global warranty system, that supports Hydro Building Systems Spain in winning projects all over the world. Their team can also reach out at any time for technical support or expert advice from our own team and across multiple departments, from quality to customer service.”

 

Arantxa is similarly delighted with how the partnership is evolving:

“When you’ve built a global reputation for the quality of your aluminum profile systems, and are committed to sustainability, you seek partners with similar ideals, and a shared ambition of continuous improvement. AkzoNobel shares our passion for innovation; the more Interpon innovates, the greater the innovation we can take to our customers,” she concludes.

CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE WEBSITE

 

 

 

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Housebuilding leads way in construction upswing

Construction output and notably housebuilding figures show encouraging growth, according to the latest data from the ONS.

Monthly construction output is estimated to have grown by 1.9% in volume terms in May 2024; this follows a fall of 1.1% in April 2024.

The main contributors to the monthly increase were a 2.8% increase in total new housing, with both private and public new housing increasing on the month.

Commenting on the latest numbers Beard Construction finance director Fraser Johns said: “Although more recent PMI data shows just how volatile the sector is, the news that both private and public new housing is leading this charge will be welcome to the many that rely on this sector. It is a real example of the resilience we continue to see from firms across UK construction.”

He added: “Until we see output and new orders increasing consistently month-on-month, we shouldn’t take anything for granted though. With the election now settled, the hope is we can all pick back up and continue to build momentum during the second half of the year. As we see borrowing conditions improve, with a potential base rate cut in the near future, this will certainly enable more clients to push ahead with plans.

Q New Homes director Michael Wynne echoed the positive sentiment: “Construction has gone from zero to hero in the space of just one month, moving from the being the weakest to the strongest sector of the economy in May.

“The jump in output can only be partly explained by the contrast between May’s good weather – which was officially the warmest on record – and the rain-soaked April, which delayed work on many building sites.”

He added: “Levels of new housebuilding spiked by 2.8% during the month, and while this is very welcome it’s worth remembering that this figure is flattered by comparison to the low levels seen during the first part of the year.”

He added: “A better test of the market’s health will come over the coming month, as housebuilders digest the reforms announced by the incoming Government and we anxiously await the Bank of England’s next interest rate decision at the start of August.

“The start of an interest rate cut cycle should unleash a surge of pent-up demand from both developers and homebuyers – which will determine whether today’s positive data is a blip or a bounce-back.”

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UK construction industry optimistic about AI

More than three-quarters (76%) of senior industry decision-makers at large UK firms have high expectations for the use of AI in construction
New research commissioned by IFS found that more than two-thirds (68%) of construction decision-makers think their industry is adopting AI at a faster rate than others.

The findings highlight the increasing optimism of the sector about the potential of AI.

31% of the survey sample indicate that executives and board members have high expectations for AI’s ability to enhance market knowledge.

AI will also boost product or service innovation and create consistent growth opportunities, according to 29% of the survey respondents.

While 76% of leaders report a high level of readiness for AI adoption in construction, concerns persist about the quality of AI resources, especially human skills.

Over a third (36%) rate their team’s AI skills as merely passable, highlighting a gap between AI aspirations and current capabilities.

Equally concerning, more than a quarter (27%) indicate that upskilling is not a priority.

The report found that 36% of firms have developed clear strategies and are seeing tangible results from their AI initiatives. This demonstrates the benefits of a well-planned approach.

Another 31% are in the process of gathering proposals for pilot projects, highlighting a proactive stance towards exploring AI applications.

The remaining 31% are still in the research phase, indicating a cautious yet determined effort to understand the potential of AI in the construction industry.

Despite concerted efforts, almost two-thirds (64%) of respondents believe it will take one to three years for AI to make a significant impact on their organisations.

42% of respondents indicated that their legacy-based technology landscape is hindering their progress in adopting and deploying AI.

Additionally, 41% expressed uncertainty about potential AI use cases within their business, underscoring the need for a clearer strategic direction.

Kenny Ingram, VP of construction and engineering at IFS, said: “While the enthusiasm for AI in the UK construction sector is clear, our research shows that there are significant challenges to overcome. The legacy technology landscape and the need for upskilling are potential obstacles.

“However, with a strategic approach and investment in the right resources, these barriers can be addressed effectively.”

 

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Latest statistics show drop in construction output

According to new data published on 12 June by the Office of National Statistics, construction output fell dramatically in April, which marked the third consecutive monthly fall since a small uplift was recorded in January.

The 1.4% contraction in activity was caused by decreases in both new work (- 1.9%), and repair and maintenance (-0.8%).

The survey returns suggested heavy rainfall and strong winds dampened activity during April.

The latest figures will be a blow to the Government, which on 11 June laid out its Manifesto plan to boost house building with stamp duty cuts and reinstatement of help to buy for first-time buyers.

At the sector level, seven out of the nine sectors saw a fall in April. The main contributors to the monthly decrease were private housing new work, and private housing repair and maintenance, which fell by 4.4% and 2.5%, respectively.

In the three months to April, the industry has seen construction output fall 2.2%, mainly due to a 2.8% fall in new work brought on by project delays.

Clive Docwra, managing director of property and construction consultancy McBains, said: “After last month’s figures showed the construction sector still mired in technical recession, today’s figures come as a further blow for the industry.

“A close to 2% fall in new work across the board highlights the continuing caution shown by investors being reluctant to commit to new projects while so many economic uncertainties remain.

“New work in private housing in particular remains in the doldrums, seeing a fall of more than 4%.

“Many in the industry are crossing their fingers for a post-election boost, but today’s figures show that whichever party forms the next government has a job on its hands to restore confidence and encourage growth.”

Scott Motley, head of programme, project and cost management at AECOM, said: “After an uptick in the broader economic climate, many will be hopeful that construction industry output will soon follow suit.

“Importantly, the upcoming General Election will provide clarity on the nation’s future direction earlier than anticipated, bringing with it the prospect of a new infrastructure strategy and greater confidence in investment decisions in the second half of the year.

“However, the continued high cost of doing business will still make for challenging landscape post-election until interest rates drop significantly.”

Fraser Johns, finance director at Beard, said: “Given the poor weather conditions seen in April, it should be hardly surprising to see a drop in monthly construction output. A sixth consecutive fall in the three-month series is more troubling, however it shows the mixed bag of the industry in the current climate.

“While there are those across the country undoubtedly experiencing challenges and significant pressures, from our perspective, the south of England remains incredibly buoyant with growing confidence and demand from both clients and from regional and national frameworks helping to fill our pipeline.”

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NHF-backed MMC alliance appoints ZED PODS to offsite framework


Building Better, the National Housing Federation-supported group of housing associations and councils working to increase the use of modern methods of construction (MMC), has added a new manufacturer to its MMC Category 1 framework.

Building Better and Procurement for Housing (PfH) have signed up ZED PODS to their volumetric framework, which is worth up to £400m over four years. Social housing organisations can procure pre-manufactured 3D construction systems for both houses and apartments from ZED PODS through the deal.

ZEDPODS have been appointed to the framework on a direct award basis so housing associations and local authorities won’t need to go through any additional tender process to procure from them. Streamlining MMC contracting in this way saves around £15,000 in procurement costs for each housing organisation.

The framework also enables very early engagement with ZED PODS, in a compliant way. When social housing organisations meet with manufacturers right at the start of a project and tap into their design experience to create plans that are right for all parties, this commonly leads to more successful schemes.

Founded in 2016, ZED PODS design and build zero-operational-carbon social housing and specialise in delivering turnkey housing solutions using volumetric MMC. ZED PODS’ build system can be used on traditional sites and also constrained brownfield locations such as derelict garage sites, carparks, and flood zones.

ZED PODS have delivered award-winning housing schemes for both local authorities and housing associations. They are presently working with 28 public sector organisations to plan and design MMC schemes, and they are currently onsite building zero-operational-carbon social homes in Sheffield, Ashford, Bristol, and across Wales and Devon.

All MMC homes procured under the Building Better framework take a fabric-first approach (prioritising insulation ahead of add-ons like solar panels), they meet nationally described space standards (NDSS) and have the option to be wheelchair accessible. They are certified by the Buildoffsite Property Assurance Scheme (BOPAS) and assessed and accepted by building warranty provider ICW Insurance Services.

Tony Woods, Technical Manager for Construction & Sustainability at Procurement for Housing (PfH) said: “The quality of ZED PODS’ homes really set them apart in the tender process, as well as their management team and financial position. They manufacture high performance, low carbon houses and flats that exceed the proposed Future Home Standards and the Welsh Development Quality Requirements 2021. But it was also the way they involve residents that impressed us. ZED PODS take a proactive approach to engaging early with local communities ahead of construction on site.

Tom Northway, Chairman of ZED PODS, said: “​We are delighted to have been selected for the Building Better framework and look forward to working with the team and its members to deliver our net zero carbon housing solutions.”

In addition to the MMC Category 1 framework, Building Better and PfH also run a dynamic purchasing system (DPS) for MMC Category 2 construction systems. Through this DPS, social housing organisations can procure 2D panelised systems, assembled on-site, from over 20 pre-approved manufacturers.

 

CLICK HERE for further information about Building Better’s MMC Category 1 framework

 

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Vox Ignis Launches Unicorn Voice PAVA with global first UL Certification

Worldwide voice alarm and safety communications specialist Vox Ignis has launched its new unified PAVA system, Unicorn Voice, after becoming the global first to recieve UL certification to EN54-16. This European standard specifies the requirements for voice alarm controls and other equipment used in fire detection and alarm systems.

Unicorn Voice is a powerful wall-mounted, scalable public address and voice alarm (PAVA) system for almost any site. It is designed to be the easiest to specify, install, and configure. It can grow from one panel to a fault-tolerant network of 64 multi-amplifier panels with up to 256 speaker circuits supporting over 163,000 speakers as per BS EN 5839-8.

Unicorn Voice is easily programmed and managed via integrated, intuitive touch screens or PC and offers a range of amplifier sizes and speaker taps that maximise power efficiency. Amplifiers can be hot-swapped, and Vox Ignis’ speaker range promises easy first-fix with plug-and-play installation. Unicorn Voice offers pre-recorded and live voice messaging, background music, integrated fire telephones, disabled refuge, fire alarm VADs, and assistance alarms, delivering one system for all the fire and life safety voice and alert systems required in modern sites.

Anthony Smith, managing director of Vox Ignis, said: “Unicorn Voice is the result of a £multi-million development project and 30 years of leading experience. It delivers a best-in-class feature set, a product that demystifies the voice alarm world and ensures the very best audio safety systems are available to the market.

“We are proud that this is the first product to have been tested and certified by UL to EN54-16, or any EN or UK standard. I’d like to thank the UK and USA UL teams for their contributions. Achieving UL certification is not easy, and that is why it is one of the most well-respected certification marks in the life safety industry.”

Karine Johnfroe, vice president and general manager of the UL Solutions Built Environment Group, said: “For 130 years, our organization has been integral to enabling fire and life safety technology advancements. Our pioneering safety science efforts and technical leadership in this area have empowered makers of fire safety equipment to help safeguard lives and property.

“We are honored to continue this work as a notified and approved body for the Construction Products Regulation to EN and UK standards, and we commend Vox Ignis for working to demonstrate their product’s compliance.”

Vox Ignis is a global specialist in voice alarm, emergency voice communication, and assistance call systems. Designed and manufactured in the UK and sold under the Vox Ignis and leading OEM brands worldwide, its products amplify the safety of millions of people and buildings every day.

PLEASE CLICK HERE For more information on VOX IGNIS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Introducing Watts Electric Underfloor Heating: Revolutionising Comfort and Efficiency

Watts Industries UK is proud to introduce its latest range of advanced products offering unparalleled comfort, convenience, and reliability. Our new Watts electric underfloor heating range is backed by world-class design, manufacturing, and technical support.

With over 30 years of experience in the floor heating business, our electric underfloor heating range is designed and manufactured to the highest standards, making it suitable for new constructions and retrofit projects.

Our new range features three innovative key products: TapeMat®, WarmWire® and HeatMatrix™for electric underfloor heating. TapeMat® fits your floor plan and features an open weave design for easy, one-step mortar installation. WarmWire® has the flexibility to fit any floor plan at a cost-effective price and is ideal for installing under tile or stone in wet applications.

Our HeatMatrix™ uncoupling membrane enables fast, easy installation of WarmWire® under tile and stone. Press WarmWire® into the HeatMatrix™ channels at the selected spacing for a quick and easy installation. This innovative system also protects tile and stone from cracking by providing a stress control layer that isolates the surface from subfloor movement.

Please visit our website www.watts-electricufh.co.uk to explore our full range of products.

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SterlingOSB Zero – the builders’ choice

Choosing panel products that satisfy building standards, have sound environmental credentials and are quick and easy to use when battling the elements in the UK, is one tough task; and West Fraser’s SterlingOSB Zero range makes the job a whole lot easier.

The portfolio comprises of SterlingOSB Zero OSB3 and SterlingOSB Zero Tongue and Groove; both are variants of the precision-engineered OSB3 board; BBA-approved, the board contains zero added formaldehyde and is produced in Scotland from forest thinnings taken from sustainably-managed forests. It is also certified according to the guidelines of the FSC® (C012533) and is CE-certified.

Among its multiple uses, SterlingOSB Zero is ideal for timber frame construction. For structural use in dry or humid load bearing situations, SterlingOSB Zero OSB3 is the board of choice. Flooring and roofing applications are served by SterlingOSB Zero OSB3 and SterlingOSB Zero Tongue & Groove.

West Fraser delivers a net carbon benefit in all its products produced in the UK, locking up more CO2e in the products (and lifetime of use) than is emitted in the manufacture of them.  That accounts for everything from forest to customer, including harvesting, production, sales and logistics.

For further information, call 01786 812 921 or visit Uk.westfraser.com

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Ideal Heating Launches ECOMOD Natural Refrigerant Commercial Heat Pumps

Ideal Heating Commercial has launched its next generation ECOMOD heat pumps, with natural refrigerant. The first to be released this year is the ECOMOD 290HT, with ECOMOD CO2 to follow.

The ECOMOD 290HT is a monobloc air source heat pump able to achieve high temperatures up to 75°C, whilst benefitting from an ultra-low global warming potential (GWP) of just three as a result of the use of R290 natural refrigerant. An ultra-low GWP is not only good for the planet, but also makes commercial sense as high GWP refrigerants become increasingly scarce and therefore more expensive.

Available in three chassis sizes and five outputs from 15kW through to 50kW, ECOMOD 290HT has been specifically designed for use in larger commercial buildings and can be used in cascade to achieve even higher outputs. This latest generation of heat pumps can also be installed alongside other Ideal Heating commercial solutions, such as the EVOMAX 2 and the IMAX XTRA 2 commercial condensing boilers, to build a low carbon hybrid heating system.

With its ability to achieve high temperatures up to 75°C, ECOMOD 290HT is ideal for Domestic Hot Water (DHW) applications and district heating systems. Furthermore, with potentially no need to upgrade radiators with the ECOMOD 290HT, it is a practical, cost-effective solution for retrofit installations.

ECOMOD 290HT comes with a high efficiency rating and high co-efficient of performance (CoP) rating of up to 4.94. The heat pumps also include an inverter-controlled compressor to accurately match the heat demand based on the specific requirements, further enhancing the efficiency of a building. ECOMOD 290HT heat pumps are quiet in operation, with noise levels as low as 64dB(A).

ECOMOD 290HT models all represent the output at Air 7°C and Water 35°C.

Chris Caton, Product Director – Commercial, at Ideal Heating, comments on the company’s move into natural refrigerants: “We have led the way in commercial heating by ensuring our heating products are at the forefront of technology, quality and design by delivering both high efficiency and low running costs. This latest, innovative addition to our ECOMOD heat pump range, featuring natural refrigerants with ultra-low GWP, will ensure our customers have the best and most advanced solutions for heating and hot water, while helping businesses in the UK on their journey to Net Zero.”

All ECOMOD 290HT heat pumps come with a five-year warranty when commissioned by Ideal Heating. Ideal Heating is the only manufacturer to offer a free of charge commissioning service across its full range of commercial ECOMOD heat pumps and condensing boilers, saving customers time and money, and ensuring appliances are correctly commissioned and operating.

Ideal Heating delivers commercial heating solutions that are at the forefront of technology and developed in line with the latest market trends and legislation. For more information visit: idealcommercialboilers.com/products/ecomod-290ht

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Ibstock ramps up next stage of investment at Nostell brick slip factory in West Yorkshire

Ibstock Plc (“Ibstock” or the “Group”) is embarking on the next stage of its major investment programme at its Nostell factory in West Yorkshire. Once fully operational, Ibstock will have the UK’s first fully automated brick slip manufacturing centre at the Nostell site, producing around 50 million brick slips per year.

As the leading brick manufacturer in the UK and with over 200 years of industry knowledge and expertise, the Group are increasing their presence in the fast-growing markets for brick slips, façades, and walling system solutions, as they continue work towards maximising the full potential of more modern methods of construction in the UK.

The new brick slips centre at Nostell is progressing in two key phases. Phase one is nearing completion and focuses on driving pace and scale of brick slips through automation using the first of its kind technology here in the UK. Phase two focuses on even more advanced technology which will significantly expand the brick slips product range and offering from 2025 onwards. The latter phase is a fundamental step in Ibstock’s journey to net zero.

The investment and innovation into the brick slips centre will not only continue to provide customers with a traditional authentic brick finish, but also enable a more modern installation approach. This will help meet the growing customer demand in mid-to-high rise new build and other key markets such as retrofit and the low rise modular offsite sector.

The Group will also continue to collaborate closely with developers and contractors on other new construction systems which will bring even more modern solutions and more carbon efficient building products to the supply chain, as well as influencing the design for manufacturing and assembly from early stages of conception.

Adam Foster, Project and Operations Director at Ibstock commented: “We are incredibly excited by what the development of our brick slips manufacturing centre at Nostell means for Ibstock as a whole – unleashing speed, scale, flexibility and precision in fast growing markets. The investment will increase our overall brick slip capacity by ten times more than what it is today, which is testament to our commitment to innovate for the construction industry.’’

“Not only do brick slips provide an authentic brick finish that will support planning applications, but also enable a more efficient installation for the targeted markets. Its light weight, promoting easier installation, manual handling, less waste in construction, as well as time efficiencies on construction sites.’’

‘‘The new manufacturing technology at Nostell also allows for more agile operations, with fast response times and lower minimum order quantities compared to current imported alternatives. Furthermore, the high precision and new process results in brick slips having a tighter tolerance for systems such as precast. The slips will be incredibly durable and safe from a combustibility perspective, meaning they can be specified with confidence across multiple system holders.’’

“For mid to high rise buildings, retrofit and low rise modular, using Ibstock brick slips can significantly streamline the specification process. We use a variety of materials to match regional styles nationwide, ensuring our slips can perfectly complement existing, handset bricks.

“Furthermore, the slips are available in a range of bespoke thicknesses, from 15mm and above, meaning they suit a wide variety of applications. The high precision manufacturing and rigorous quality process allows us to achieve unparalleled precision on dimensions for manufactured systems requiring a very tight tolerance.

“By scaling production capacity of our brick slips, we are enabling more key markets to take advantage of the inherent benefits they can deliver.’’

www.ibstock.co.uk

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