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The Wiser Way to Run Your Home, Save Money & Simplify Life

Dylan Garton
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0
The Wiser Way to Run Your Home, Save Money & Simplify Life

Smart heating has been around for a while, but it’s usually limited to turning the boiler on and off through an app. Drayton’s Wiser 2nd Generation system takes things much further. It’s not just about warmth anymore; it’s about running your whole home in a smarter, safer, more efficient way.

We tried out the whole setup in a modern four-bedroom house to see how it performs when everything is connected.

The HubR – Everything Starts Here

At the centre of the system sits the Wiser HubR, a small box that quietly runs the show. It links all the devices to the Wiser Home app and your Wi-Fi network. There are one, two and three-channel versions depending on your heating layout.

Once installed, it lets you manage the heating, hot water and all connected accessories from your phone. The app gives you complete control, whether you’re on the sofa or miles from home.

Heating That Thinks for You

The Wiser Room Thermostat is slim, wireless and refreshingly simple. Set it up, stick it on the wall, and you can control the temperature by touch, in the app, or with your voice via Alexa or Google Assistant.

Add Wiser Radiator Thermostats to the mix, and things get interesting. Each room can have its own schedule and target temperature, so you only heat the rooms you’re using. It’s one of those small changes that quickly pays for itself when energy bills land.

Wiser by Drayton Controls

Power Micro Module – Automatic Ventilation

One of the clever new bits of kit is the Power Micro Module. It sits neatly behind a switch or spur and turns any standard circuit into a smart one. We used it to control a ventilation fan, linked to a humidity sensor. When the air gets steamy after a shower, the fan automatically kicks in and stops once the room dries again. No timers, no wasted energy — just common-sense automation.

Smart Plugs – Everyday Control

The Wiser Smart Plug does precisely what you’d expect, but better – boosting your devices network through the building as well as acting as a smart plug. Plug in a lamp, heater or coffee machine, and you can switch it on remotely or set it to follow a schedule. It’s one of those small conveniences that you start using every day without thinking about it.

Safety and Awareness Through Sensors

Drayton has widened the Wiser range with a set of compact, battery-powered sensors that cover both safety and comfort.

  • Window & Door Sensors tell the app when openings are left ajar, handy for cutting off the heating if someone’s forgotten to close a window – and for security too, notifying you through the app if a window or door is opened.
  • The Water Leakage Sensor sits under sinks or beside appliances and raises an instant alarm if it detects a puddle. It’s a small device that could save a fortune in repairs.
  • The Temperature & Humidity Sensor quietly tracks the conditions in any room and can trigger other devices to act automatically.
  • A Motion Sensor keeps an eye on movement and light levels, adding a touch of security when the house is empty.
  • And the Smoke Alarm uses both optical and heat detection. If one goes off, they all sound, and you get an alert on your phone too.

All of these sensors connect to the HubR, so the system behaves as a single network rather than a bunch of separate gadgets.

Control It All from One App

The Wiser Home app ties everything together. You can adjust temperatures, set up “Moments” (automated actions), or check sensor alerts from anywhere. It also plays nicely with Alexa, Google Assistant and IFTTT if you want to link it to other smart home gear.

Built for UK Homes

Drayton has been making heating controls in the UK for more than 70 years, and that experience shows here. Everything feels solid, reliable and well thought out for British homes.

The new Wiser 2nd Generation system blends heating control, energy management and home safety into one practical package. It’s easy to fit, straightforward to use and makes a lot of sense whether you’re a homeowner or a professional installer.

For more details, visit wiser.draytoncontrols.co.uk and follow our full installation video here on Skill Builder.


See more from Drayton on Skill Builder

This Roof Looks Simple… It Wasn’t

Dylan Garton
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This Roof Looks Simple… It Wasn’t

Roger visits a construction site where the team is working on erecting trusses for a building’s roof.

Despite initial challenges, including limited crane availability and a six-month project delay due to roof redesign, the crew impressively lifted and positioned all the trusses manually.

The team discusses their multi-skilled approach to construction, handling everything from foundations to plasterboarding, emphasising the importance of precise measuring and adaptability in their work.

The project features a distinctive central skylight lantern, which required significant planning and redesign.

The team also highlights ongoing efforts to waterproof the building before the winter rains arrive.

Highlights
00:00:00 Introduction to the site and the truss installation
00:00:34 Crane cost constraints
00:01:30 Designed around a lantern
00:02:00 Redesign of the roof
00:03:09 Multitalented team
00:04:22 Emphasis on precision
00:04:58 Waterproofing for winter

Insights
💸 **Cost management influences construction methods:** The high cost of crane rental (£1,000 per day) forced the team to innovate by manually lifting trusses. This reflects how budget constraints can drive creative problem-solving on construction sites, requiring physical effort and coordination.

🌟 **Architectural features affect structural complexity:** The inclusion of a large skylight lantern in the centre of the building required a complete redesign of the roof structure. This highlights how aesthetic or functional design elements can significantly impact construction planning and timelines.

⏳ **Delays are common and require flexibility:** The six-month delay due to roof redesign shows the importance of adaptability in construction projects. Unexpected challenges must be managed without compromising the overall quality or progress.

🛠️ **Trade versatility is valuable in construction:** The crew’s ability to perform a wide range of tasks—from foundations and walls to roofing and plasterboarding—demonstrates the advantage of being multi-skilled. This flexibility helps maintain workflow continuity and reduces dependency on multiple subcontractors.

📏 **Precision is fundamental in construction:** The team emphasises the critical role of accurate measuring and cutting. Mastery of basic carpentry skills, such as using a spirit level and correctly using measuring tools, enables workers to tackle a wide range of construction tasks effectively.

🔨 **Tools are essential, but skill is paramount:** Despite using an average saw, the team’s skill level ensures high-quality workmanship. This underscores that the craftsman’s expertise often outweighs the quality of equipment in achieving precise results.

🌧️ **Weatherproofing is crucial before seasonal changes:** The crew’s prompt action to waterproof the building before winter rains illustrates the need for proactive site management. Protecting work in progress from weather damage prevents costly setbacks and ensures project timelines remain intact.

The video provides a practical overview of the realities of a construction site, highlighting the combination of technical skill, adaptability, and teamwork required to overcome challenges and successfully complete complex builds.

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🏠 More from Skill Builder

https://youtu.be/RUJu0Z-NtRU

https://youtu.be/0vUG2ierR6A

https://youtu.be/j4h8JOBvFEU

Resin Bound Drives – Practical DIY Job?

Roger Bisby
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0
Resin Bound Drives – Practical DIY Job?

Resin bound drives are all the rage these days for the obvious reason that they provide a great looking gravel hard-standing without the drawback of loose gravel but are they a job for the general builder or should you sub them out?

There are two distinct forms of resin bound drive. One is where the gravel is mixed in with the resin and trowelled on in the same way as a screed, the other is a broadcast method where the resin is spread across the surface and the chippings are then thrown across it.

Those chippings that make contact with the resin are fixed and the loose can be swept up for reuse. The mixed resin method requires a special mixer so it is more likely that the builder will sub this job out but the broadcast method is easier because it requires very little outlay for tools.

Resin Bound Drive Training

Ideally, some training is required because you are dealing with a two pack product. Material suppliers can offer this.

Like anything that has two different methods, there is a difference of opinion as to which is best. Generally, the broadcast method is considered more suitable for driveways as it is harder wearing and has excellent skid resistance.

The trowel down method is a smoother surface which some prefer but it can be slippery when wet. This can be cured with a non-slip coating. Similarly, the broadcast surface can be sealed with a clear resin to resist staining and enhance the colour.

Once this is done it is often difficult for the untrained eye to see a difference between trowel down and broadcast.

Resin bound drive
Resin Bound Drive

Like so many wet trades the secret to success is the ability to work clean and time the job to produce a steady workflow. This takes a little experience and you are much better off starting with a small area.

On a concrete substrate, at the very least, you need to carry out a thorough jet washing and acid wash to remove any loose or weak material or even laitance.

If you are working with old tarmac that is sound then you will probably be fine but on new tarmac, you need to leave it at least 28 days, or in any instance allow for the oily bituminous residue to dissipate, or this will not allow the resin to adhere properly.

It is not normally necessary to prime a clean dust free surface, although primers are available for a belt and braces approach. The next step is to mask up the areas you need to protect. The resin needs to be applied right up to the edge so time spent on masking is going to make the job easier and neater.

The surface needs to be bone dry which can be a problem in Britain. If there is a shaded area that looks a bit damp it is worth running a roofers blowtorch over it.

You may be tempted to wait for a nice hot day but the two-pack goes off a lot faster in the heat so on the first couple of jobs you really need to pick an overcast day or start early in the morning.

As you get to know the materials you will learn when you can push your luck. When you are ready to lay you need one person mixing the resin and another on the squeegee and if you can manage it a third person on the gravel.

As you become more experienced, if the job is small, you can do the job with two people but the first time it is better to go in mob-handed. A notched squeegee is a tool you can’t do without because it makes sure the bed of resin is even rather than having thick and thin parts. As the notch lines begin to sink into the mass you can begin casting the gravel.

Ideally, you need to avoid walking on the finished surface for a few hours but when broadcasting the gravel it is sometimes hard to avoid. If you need to go on it then smooth-soled shoes are essential and walk very carefully so you don’t kick up the gravel.

On the job shown here there was a steep sloping section of drive and for a beginner, this is not good because the resin can run and slump. Again this underlines the value of the one-day training course.

Resin Bound Drives Close-up

Contact PICS Newbury for details of  resin bound gravel drives materials and one day training courses.

Check out our new feature on DIY resin bound drives from Vuba Building Products.

Mask off the outer edge of the perimeter
Mask off the outer edge of the perimeter

Resin bound drive mix
Mixing it up in the tub

Broadcasting the gravel
Broadcasting the gravel

Spreading the resin
Spreading the resin

Spiked shoes for walking on the resin are essential.
Spiked shoes for walking on the resin are essential.

More broadcasting of the gravel.
More broadcasting of the gravel.

Close up of high wear area
Close up of high wear area

See more on resin bound drives with Skill Builder.

Figures Show WJ Group Delivers £83 Million in Social Value in a Year

Dylan Garton
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0
Figures Show WJ Group Delivers £83 Million in Social Value in a Year

Road safety, surface treatments and line marking specialist, WJ Group, delivered at least £83 million in social value in 2023, according to figures released recently.

The figure has been assessed rigorously across WJ’s contracts with National Highways, Transport Scotland and local highways authorities throughout the UK, and has been certified by PlanetMark. It has been calculated according to a range of measures, including carbon reduction, community engagement, volunteering, training and employment opportunities.

Standout contributions include 30,901 tonnes of CO2 reductions, primarily driven by the use of their bio-based thermoplastic products, and more than 1195 hours volunteering for community projects by members of the WJ team, including projects such as cleaning and refurbishing the Spitfire and Walrus monuments on Reginald Mitchell Way in Stoke-on-Trent.

WJ Group Leadership

Paul Aldridge, Sustainability Director at WJ Group, said: “Our core operations across the strategic and local road network throughout the UK deliver important social and economic benefits in terms of road safety and better journeys. However, our activities also deliver a wide range of social benefits, from improving the environment through carbon reduction to providing skilled employment opportunities for local people.

“Beyond that, we take pride in engaging with the communities through projects such as school outreach, where we teach local children about road safety, careers events and donations of time and materials for projects like new playgrounds.”

To find out more about WJ Group’s services, please visit: www.wj.uk

See more about road safety on Skill Builder

SOPREMA to Exhibit at Education Estates 2025

Dylan Garton
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SOPREMA to Exhibit at Education Estates 2025

SOPREMA, a global leader in waterproofing, insulation, and acoustic solutions, will be exhibiting at Education Estates 2025 on 14–15 October at Manchester Central. Visitors are invited to meet the SOPREMA team on Stand 328 to learn how the company’s expertise in both soundproofing systems and educational roofing projects supports the creation of safe, comfortable, and future-ready learning environments.

At this year’s event, SOPREMA will highlight two key areas of expertise:

• Acoustic comfort in education: SOPREMA’s advanced soundproofing products, including Purekustik, Fibrokustik, Soprakustik, Tecsound, Pavaflex, and Pavatextil, are designed to help schools, colleges, and universities meet the requirements of BB93: Acoustic Design of Schools. These solutions help reduce noise transfer, improve speech intelligibility, and create learning spaces that enhance wellbeing and performance.

• Complete roofing service for education: Alongside product innovation, SOPREMA provides a full-service approach to roofing for both refurbishment and new-build projects. From initial surveying and design through to technical specification, installation guidance, and aftercare, SOPREMA ensures that every stage of the project is backed by expert support. Solutions such as DUOFLEX and Alsan PMMA are not only designed for durability and efficiency, but also address the key compliance priorities of the education sector:

o BB100 Fire Safety in Schools
o Broof(t4) Fire Performance Compliant Systems
o BBA certification to demonstrate proven durability
o RAG ratings to support specification confidence

SOPREMA IN ACTION

This dual focus reflects SOPREMA’s commitment to working in partnership with clients to address both the acoustic performance and building fabric requirements of modern educational facilities.

Phil Griffiths, Development & Specification Director said:

“Education Estates is the ideal opportunity for us to demonstrate how our soundproofing technologies and complete roofing services come together to support the education sector. By combining innovative products with technical expertise and a lifecycle service approach, we help schools, colleges, and universities create spaces that are resilient, sustainable, and truly fit for purpose.”

Education Estates is the UK’s leading event dedicated to the design, construction, management, and maintenance of schools, colleges, and universities. The exhibition attracts estates and facilities directors, local authorities, architects, contractors, governors, advisors, and education leaders who are focused on shaping the future of learning environments.

www.soprema.co.uk

See more about insulation on Skill Builder

What the Baltics Can Teach Us About Home Heating

Dylan Garton
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0
What the Baltics Can Teach Us About Home Heating

Thanks to Linas Vaičiukynas ( @S3l3ct1ve ).

The Surprising Reason the Baltics Don’t Need Heat Pumps

In Lithuania and across the Baltics, new A++ homes are so efficient they’ve started skipping heat pumps altogether — switching instead to simple electric underfloor heating powered by solar panels.

These houses are built to such high insulation and airtightness standards that their heating demand is tiny. Combine that with generous net metering and low installation costs, and many households are paying as little as £200 a year for all their energy — heating, hot water, and electricity combined.

It’s a fascinating glimpse of what happens when building standards meet smart simplicity. Could this all-electric model be the future of affordable, low-maintenance housing in the UK?

👉 Key points we explore:

What Lithuania’s A++ building standard really means

Why direct electric underfloor heating makes sense in ultra-efficient homes

How solar PV and grid credits keep annual bills around £200

Why this model wouldn’t yet work for most UK homes — and what needs to change

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🧭 Learn More

Read about Lithuania’s A++ building energy requirements:

🔗 European Commission Energy Performance Report (Lithuania)
https://energy.ec.europa.eu

🔗 Smart-Rehabilitation.eu: A++ Classification Overview
https://smart-rehabilitation.eu/building-classification-lithuania

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🏠 More from Skill Builder

https://youtu.be/RUJu0Z-NtRU

https://youtu.be/0vUG2ierR6A

https://youtu.be/j4h8JOBvFEU

OX Speedskim Review – Updated

Roger Bisby
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0
OX Speedskim Review – Updated

It is fair to say that the OX Speedskim is not for everyone as some plasterers simply could not adapt to it but for those plasterers who have embraced it the main benefit is they can complete the laying down of finish plaster without the trowel. If you are suffering from RSI this gives your wrist a welcome break and the Speedskim is faster than even the widest flexi trowel. Using the pole, which is sold separately, you can lay down a ceiling simply by walking up and down the room first one way and then the other to achieve a level of flatness that trowels simply can’t achieve.

The OX Speedskim was originally designed for first coat finish but since the introduction of the stainless steel blade there are many plasterers who are now successfully final coat finishing with the tool with just a last trowel over with a flexi blade trowel to remove the odd dog ear. Like all new ideas it takes a bit of getting used to but once you get the hang of it you won’t look back.

Original OX Speedskim review

Roger Bisby tries out the OX Speedskim and gives his initial findings on this revolutionary tool.

I have watched the development of OX Speedskim over several years. Like all good inventions it has evolved and, along the way,  it has also created a lot of lively debate. Plasterers are an interesting breed, they defend their craft and traditional practices with a passion and I admire them for that. There are those who see Speedskim as the devil’s work, a direct attack on the supremacy of the trowel, and there are those who wouldn’t be without it.

The first thing to acknowledge is that you still have to put the plaster on the wall or ceiling and for most that remain the domain of the hawk (hand-board) and trowel (float) and it is where most of the hard work is. However as soon as the plaster is on you can run across the surface with the OX Speedskim to flatten it. This is a quicker, and more accurate process than a trowel and it will save you a significant amount of time and effort.

Once you have made a pass each way on the wall or ceiling it will have taken off the high spots and, to a certain extent, filled in the hollows. It really depends on the angle you hold it at. If you hold it at 90 degrees it will take material off in the same way as a feather-edge but if you hold it at 45 degrees or even flatter it will lay the material down. This is achieved by a row of small ribs on the blade that helps limit the amount of material that moves up towards the handle.

There are those who worry about the fine lines created by the corners of the blade, you can round the blade off slightly, which helps, but the best way is to just tidy the surface up with a trowel as the plaster picks up and you close in the second coat. For some Speedskim is a tool for flattening and straightening and for others it is a tool that can also be used for finishing. If you are going to finish with it then I would recommend a pump up spray bottle to wet the surface. That will prevent any shuddering.

Available in three lengths
You can buy the OX Speedskim in three different lengths 600, 1200, 1800mm. Most people tend to buy a set but if your main aim is to flatten ceilings I would suggest that the 1800 is a bit too wide to use on the pole. In fact I know some people who use the 600 on the pole, claiming that they get much better pressure and control.

Having used the Speedskim for a few weeks now I am persuaded that it has its place. Certainly for me, a plumber who does a bit of plastering, it is a great help. It allows me to flatten walls after hacking off tiles and when I say flat I mean flat. All too often I have had plasterers in to do this job and found that I am still having to make up tile beds to overcome their sweeping curves. The chief gripe for me is the way that they ramp up the corners. With the Speedskim this is rectified immediately. The same goes for the ceiling line, the speed straightens it in one pass, and it is pure joy on up and over skeiling (sic) sweeps in loft conversions. In fact it you bought just for lofts it would earn its keep. I plastered a kitchen recently and the guys who came to fit the granite worktops were surprised by how straight the walls were. I asked them if it was unusual and they said it is very rare for them to be able to fit straight to the wall. That tells you something about our present method of using hand and eye.

Notwithstanding my success with the tool I know plasterers who have bought Speedskims and gone into rages of frustration because they can’t get the hang of them. In that respect it may be easier to get a non-plasterer up to speed than an old hand but it is the older guys who are suffering with repetitive strain injury from years on the trowel who will benefit the most. It won’t get the plaster on the wall or ceiling and it may not give you the final polish but it could save you 500 sweeps of the trowel in a day and that has got to give your wrist a rest. That figure of 500 is entirely a guess by the way. I have never counted how many movements of the trowel it takes to flatten a wall or ceiling and I probably never will. In the end I suppose it depends how well you put it on.

Further impressions
Over the coming months I am going to keep a set of OX Speedskims in the van and as I travel about the country I will let plasterers give them a try to gather some further impressions. Certainly my old mate Dave Pederson and his sons are interested in trying it on some big ceilings that they have coming up soon. They have what you might call a ‘healthy level of scepticism’ about anything that doesn’t hurt. They believe that work = pain and that is why people pay you to do it.

See the complete range of Speedskim at OX Tools See more about Speedskim on Skill Builder

Can Heat Geek’s New Tech Really Make Heat Pumps Cheaper Than Boilers?

Dylan Garton
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0
Can Heat Geek’s New Tech Really Make Heat Pumps Cheaper Than Boilers?

Find out more about Zero Disrupt:
https://go.skill-builder.uk/heatgeek

FULL VIDEO:
https://youtu.be/ENt9fJBHINQ

@HeatGeek

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🚨 A bold new claim is shaking up the heating world: Heat Geek’s Zero Disrupt system promises heat pump installs that are faster, less disruptive, and in many cases cheaper than swapping a gas boiler.

Some are even calling it “free” once government grants are factored in. But what sounds revolutionary also raises some serious questions.

Heat pumps have long been criticised for being too expensive, complex, and disruptive. Oversized radiators, mandatory cylinder swaps, and drawn-out installs have created barriers for homeowners. Zero Disrupt introduces AI-driven heat loss scanning, live monitoring, and precision design that eliminates unnecessary parts, halves installation time, and ensures efficiency.

The numbers are eye-catching:

⚡ 40% fewer parts

🛠️ Install time cut by 50%

💷 Costs reduced by up to 75%

📊 Efficiency monitored and guaranteed

But here’s the challenge: when “free installs” are based on subsidies, who’s really paying? Taxpayers fund the grants that make these headline figures possible, and with support schemes set to wind down by 2028–2029, questions remain about long-term affordability and stability.

The heating industry now faces a crossroads. Are we witnessing the first true breakthrough that can take heat pumps mainstream, or just another over-promised innovation? And where does this leave the gas boiler — written off too soon, or still essential to the future mix?

What’s clear is that the debate around cost, disruption, and trust is more important than ever. Zero Disrupt might prove to be the turning point, or it might simply expose how hard it is to deliver change in a market built on decades of boiler dominance.

Electrical Fire in Child’s Bedroom Extinguished by iMist™ Fire Suppression System

Dylan Garton
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0
Electrical Fire in Child’s Bedroom Extinguished by iMist™ Fire Suppression System

On 13 August 2025 at 9:13 am, a call was made to the fire service after an electrical fire broke out in a child’s bedroom in a timber-frame home occupied by a lone parent and their dependents. The fire was caused by a faulty electric fuel supply, which first ignited the bed and mattress.

Thanks to the rapid activation of an iMist Fire Suppression System, the blaze was confined to the bedroom, allowing the family to evacuate safely. The fire brigade mobilised at 9:20 am and arrived on scene at 9:34 am with two appliances, but by that time the fire had already been contained. All occupants escaped unharmed, and the rest of the house remained protected, demonstrating the effectiveness of early fire suppression in safeguarding lives and property in occupied homes.

iMist 1

“The safety and well-being of residents is always our top priority,” said Alex Pollard, Operations Director at iMist™ Fire Suppression. “The iMist™ system not only allowed the family to escape safely but fully extinguished the fire, saving lives and protecting property with minimal disruption.” The council initially believed the system had not activated due to the minimal water damage. This highlights one of the iMist™ system’s key advantages: it uses up to 80% less water than conventional sprinkler systems while still providing rapid and effective fire suppression.

Electrical fires are among the most common causes of domestic incidents in the UK, making early detection and rapid suppression critical to protecting families. According to House Fire Statistics (2024):

● Water-mist systems like iMist™ minimise post-fire water damage, reducing renovation costs by up to 70% compared to traditional sprinklers. The system is suitable for retrofitting into existing homes, as well as new builds.
● Rapid activation of iMist™ typically reduces fire spread by over 60% within the first 5 minutes.
● Fire suppression systems can reduce fire-related fatalities by up to 87% and property damage by up to 67% (NFCC/US Fire Administration).

iMist 3

Electrical fires remain one of the most common causes of domestic incidents in the UK, with more than 20,000 reported annually according to house fire statistics. Kitchens and bedrooms are particularly high-risk areas, making early detection and suppression critical in protecting families. iMist™ exceeds British Standard requirements by recommending a normally open Priority Demand Valve (PDV), ensuring the pump receives the full demand of the property during activation. While a standard 10-minute run time would have allowed safe evacuation, the iMist™ system’s 30-minute standard run time completely extinguished the fire within these high-risk spaces.


The incident reaffirmed the importance of advanced suppression systems in protecting vulnerable residents, particularly in high-density housing where fire spread can be rapid. The iMist™ system not only protected the family involved but also safeguarded neighbouring properties by confining the blaze to one room. Local authorities, housing providers, and developers are increasingly recognising fire suppression systems as essential to future-proofing homes, and this case provides a clear, real-world example of how innovative fire safety technology can save lives.

The iMist™ Fire Suppression System is engineered to detect and suppress fires swiftly, reducing the risk of injury and property damage. Its advanced technology makes it a trusted solution for domestic and residential settings, providing peace of mind and enhanced safety for occupants.

iMist Logo

For more information about the iMist™ Fire Suppression System and its applications, please visit www.imist.com.

See more about fire control on Skill Builder

34 ~ Thermally Broken Lintels with Richard Price from Catnic

Dylan Garton
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0
34 ~ Thermally Broken Lintels with Richard Price from Catnic

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 29:04 — 33.4MB) | Embed

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Thermally broken lintels minimise heat transfer through the building envelope to meet Part L of the Building Regulations.

Catnic’s thermally broken lintels use two folded steel sections bonded to a high-strength, thermally efficient core, achieving psi values no greater than 0.05 W/mK without additional brackets or cold bridges.

Traditional steel lintels create significant thermal bridges by crossing the insulated cavity.

Separating the inner and outer steel sections breaks this thermal convection and reduces heat flow by over 90%, depending on the design.

Catnic thermally broken lintels are available to suit 90-205mm cavities, in standard, heavy or extra heavy duty load capacities.
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Summary

❄️ Thermally broken lintels slash heat loss by eliminating cold bridging.

📐 Fit cavity widths up to 225 mm, with future options for arches and bays.

✅ Independently verified with BBA certification and BRE thermal modelling.

🛠️ Powder-coated steel for strength and durability, with installation guidance.

📊 Free structural calculations and lintel schedules from Catnic.

🌍 Central to a “fabric first” approach — boosting efficiency before adding tech like heat pumps or solar.

Find out more about Catnic: go.skill-builder.uk/catnic

Why Home Heating Will Never Be the Same Again

Dylan Garton
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0
Why Home Heating Will Never Be the Same Again

Find out more about Pipelife:
https://skill-builder.uk/pipelife

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Ireland is pushing hard on renewable heating, and it shows. At the Pipe Life Renewables Academy, Mike Geary walks through how heat pumps and underfloor heating are changing the way homes are designed and retrofitted.

With solid government backing, better controls, and proper training for installers, these systems are proving they can deliver comfort, efficiency, and reliability.

The conversation digs into the differences between split and monoblock pumps, why low-temperature design matters, how Pipe Life’s kit is built to last, and what it takes to make rural homes work on an electric grid.

It’s a practical look at the challenges, the fixes, and the growing opportunities in sustainable heating.

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🔑 CORE HEATING TECH

Heat pumps

▶ Split systems (Hitachi partnership)

▶ Monoblock systems (Media partnership)

Underfloor heating systems

▶ Multilayer heating pipes (with EVO oxygen diffusion barriers)

▶ Bespoke underfloor heating design

▶ Floor screeding techniques for efficiency

Radiators

▶ Low-temperature radiators for heat pumps

▶ Retrofitting challenges with older, high-temp radiators

⚙️ SUPPORTING TECH

Pipe Life components & products

▶ Multilayer pipework (50-year guarantee)

▶ Tan-coloured Quex brand pipes (Irish market preference)

▶ Pre-plumbed domestic hot water cylinders

▶ Modular distribution/manifold systems

Controls & monitoring

▶ Weather compensation controls

▶ Smartphone app integration / remote monitoring

Ventilation systems

▶ Mechanical Extract Ventilation (MEV) for airtight homes

Complementary technologies

▶ Solar PV (photovoltaics)

▶ Grid feedback / export systems

Installation & construction methods

▶ Pipe insulation standards

▶ Correct pipe-laying patterns (avoiding air gaps)

▶ Managing expansion in concrete floors

▶ Prefabrication / modular solutions to reduce labour

When Asbestos Removal Goes Wrong: Safety Steps & Disposal Rules

Roger Bisby
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0
When Asbestos Removal Goes Wrong: Safety Steps & Disposal Rules

When Asbestos Removal Goes Wrong: Safety Steps & Disposal Rules

Last updated: September 2025

Why Asbestos Removal Mistakes Happen

In the light of several cases where asbestos removal has been incorrectly implemented, or improperly disposed of, the UK Asbestos Training Association (UKATA) is reminding everyone of best practice on how to handle asbestos. While all steps should be taken to avoid accidents, it is vital to know what needs to be done if they occur.

Licensed Removal and Accidental Exposure

The best approach is of course to avoid situations where accidents can happen. When it comes to asbestos removal, a plan should be in place and, for licensed work, properly trained individuals must be engaged to remove the substance safely. However, even with the best-trained staff, accidents can and do occasionally happen. This mostly occurs in cases of accidental exposure to asbestos or when asbestos is not identified in a survey. In such situations, the staff involved must make the necessary assessment and, if trained, clean up correctly to minimise the risk to themselves and others. Another key part of asbestos removal, which is often neglected, is how to correctly remove and dispose of asbestos waste.

Expert Warnings from UKATA

“Removal of asbestos from buildings is arguably only the first stage of the job. Knowing how to clear up after an accident is nearly as important as knowing how to remove asbestos correctly in the first place,” said Craig Evans, General Manager of UKATA. “When something has gone wrong in the removal process, there is the greatest risk of asbestos causing damage. It’s essential for asbestos professionals to be familiar with this. Furthermore, all employees should know the correct procedure for disposal of asbestos waste following successful removal.”


Damaged asbestos roofing sheets awaiting disposal

Immediate Safety Steps

If asbestos is disturbed, safety comes first. Those not licensed to work with asbestos should:

  • Stop work immediately
  • Evacuate the area

Handling Contaminated Clothing

  • Remove outer clothing if contaminated and place it in a sealed plastic bag
  • If available, put on disposable overalls
  • Alternatively, wipe down clothing with wet wipes or a damp rag

Personal Protection

  • Wear a respirator with a protection factor of at least 20
  • Shower as soon as possible after exposure

Securing the Area

  • Cordon off the affected area to prevent further exposure

Reporting an Asbestos Incident

When asbestos fibres have been released and workers exposed in an uncontrolled manner, the incident must be reported to the HSE under the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences (RIDDOR) Regulations. This is classed as an ‘accidental release of any substance that may damage health’. If you believe you may have been exposed, consult your GP and ask for a note to be added to your health record.

Asbestos Waste Disposal Guidelines

Disposal is relatively simple but must follow strict rules. There are clear industry guidelines which anyone involved in asbestos disposal must follow:

  • Pack waste in UN-approved packaging with a Carriage of Dangerous Goods (CDG) hazard sign and asbestos code visible
  • Always double wrap asbestos waste
  • Any waste with more than 0.1% asbestos is classified as ‘hazardous’
  • Asbestos must only be disposed of at a licensed disposal site

How to Minimise Risk in the Future

The best way to minimise the damage caused by accidents is by wearing protective equipment at all times – even when an asbestos survey shows no asbestos present. Consistent use of PPE and correct disposal procedures will reduce risk and protect workers.

Final Expert Advice

“If in doubt when it comes to asbestos, the best thing to do is leave it to the professionals,” said Craig Evans. “By this, we mean someone who has received the correct and necessary training. Asbestos is far more dangerous than many people realise. It is no coincidence that asbestos is known as the hidden killer, and it must be treated with the seriousness it deserves.”

Further Resources

Mystery Damp Problem with a Hidden Cause

Dylan Garton
-
0
Mystery Damp Problem with a Hidden Cause

Dryrod Damp Proofing Rods
🛒 https://go.skill-builder.uk/dryrods

____________________________

Uncover the hidden causes behind mysterious damp problems in old stone houses. Roger investigates unusual moisture issues in a property that already had a damp proof course in place, yet damp patches still appeared.

Clues point to a filled-in coal shoot, a steel plate cover trapping moisture, and the possibility of a leaking underground lead water main saturating the foundations. Ventilation under the floors and careful inspection for leaks become crucial steps before considering expensive fixes.

____________________________

Highlights

🔍 Investigation into unusual damp problems in an old stone house

🏚️ Discovery of an old coal shoot area filled with rubbish and covered by a steel plate

💧 Suspicion of water ingress from leaking coal shoot cover and old lead water main

🧱 Damp found on internal walls, not just external, indicating complex causes

🚰 Advice to check for underground water leaks by listening for running water sounds

🌬️ Importance of clearing debris under floors to improve air circulation and reduce damp

⚠️ Caution against immediate plaster removal and waterproof rendering until root cause confirmed

____________________________

Key Insights

Not all damp is rising damp. Leaks, blocked ventilation, and hidden structural changes can cause complex damp patterns in older homes. Rushing into plaster removal or waterproof coatings often wastes money — the priority is diagnosing the true source, whether it’s poor airflow, trapped moisture, or leaking pipes.

The Truth About an All-Electric Future

Dylan Garton
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0
The Truth About an All-Electric Future

📪 Newsletter: http://skill-builder.uk/signup
____________________________

Britain’s race to Net Zero exposes deep contradictions in energy policy and infrastructure planning.

Gas networks are being renewed for decades ahead, even as households are pushed toward all-electric heating and transport.

At the same time, the workforce needed to deliver mass electrification is nowhere near large enough, and the national grid faces pressures it was never designed to withstand.

Hydrogen-ready pipes and boilers point to a hybrid future, while high electricity costs and fuel poverty risks show that affordability must be part of the conversation.

____________________________

Key Points:

🔧 Ongoing 30-year gas mains replacement program conflicts with the plan to ban gas boilers.

⚡ The UK faces a severe shortage of electricians to deliver mass electrification.

🔄 Hydrogen-ready boilers and pipes suggest gas may still play a role in the energy mix.

🌬️ Renewables are intermittent, demanding expensive backup power stations.

🔌 The grid requires radical upgrades – new cables, substations, and pylons.

💸 Electricity prices are set to stay high, driven by infrastructure and subsidy costs.

🏠 Fuel poverty is a growing risk, especially for vulnerable households.

💡 Heat pumps don’t always save money — some users face higher bills than with gas.

Bathroom Floor Gets Wet AFTER A Shower Not During It. Help!

Dylan Garton
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0
Bathroom Floor Gets Wet AFTER A Shower Not During It. Help!

📪 Newsletter: http://skill-builder.uk/signup
🛒 https://www.amazon.co.uk/shop/skillbuilder

Summary

Water pooling outside a shower isn’t always caused by bad plumbing — often it’s down to a simple installation mistake with the shower screen profile.

When the inside edge is sealed with silicone, water gets trapped in the vertical aluminium channel and eventually escapes, creating puddles after a shower.

The correct fix is to let the channel drain back into the tray and ensure the profile is mounted on the tiles, not the wall, to prevent long-term damage.

Why Your ‘Soundproof’ Windows Won’t Work (Unless You Do This)

Dylan Garton
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0
Why Your ‘Soundproof’ Windows Won’t Work (Unless You Do This)

SUPPORT SB – BECOME A MEMBER 👇
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9GdB6vG6m6cDAwrTAWXgyg/join
____________________________

LINKS

Acoustic Windows: Are They Your Key to Quiet?
https://www.greenmatch.co.uk/windows/acoustic

What Is Acoustic Glass: How It Works And Its Benefits
https://www.finepoint.glass/what-is-acoustic-glass/

Traffic Noise Reduction Strategy in a Large City (Applied Sciences, 2022)
https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3417/12/12/6027

____________________________

Key Takeaway:

Acoustic glass can help, but it’s rarely the silver bullet. The best results come from a layered approach that tackles all the ways noise sneaks into your home.

Next Steps You Can Try:

• Seal the gaps – around window frames, vents, and trickle vents. Even small gaps let in big noise.

• Test with low-cost fixes – hang heavy curtains, blankets, or acoustic liners to see the difference before investing.

• Upgrade insulation – denser loft and cavity wall insulation (e.g. mineral wool or rockwool) helps with airborne noise.

• Consider secondary glazing – often more effective than replacing windows, thanks to the extra air gap.

• Look at shutters – roller or folding shutters can add both thermal and acoustic protection, especially at night.

• Combine solutions – no single product “soundproofs” a room, but layering strategies can make traffic noise far more tolerable.

____________________________

CHAPTERS

00:00 – Magno’s question
00:31 – Reduction vs. soundproofing
01:05 – Types of noise
02:04 – Noise transmission
02:34 – Glass thickness
03:33 – Sound perception
04:01 – Acoustic glass
04:32 – Cavity wall insulation
05:00 – Loft insulation
05:29 – Blankets and curtains
06:00 – Secondary glazing
06:55 – Channel support

The Pallet LOOP Gains Further Momentum as Cemex UK Signs Up

Dylan Garton
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0
The Pallet LOOP Gains Further Momentum as Cemex UK Signs Up

The Pallet LOOP, a member of timber and forestry business BSW Group, is proud to announce that another major materials manufacturer has signed up to use its circular economy pallets.

Cemex UK is the latest manufacturer to announce a pioneering partnership with LOOP, becoming the first business in the cement industry to do so, marking a major milestone in its efforts towards sustainable packaging solutions.

From October 2025, the core range of Rugby Cement products bagged at Cemex’s flagship plant in Rugby will be delivered on The Pallet LOOP’s distinctive green pallets – designed for recovery, repair, and reuse.

Cemex is the first cement manufacturer to adopt The Pallet LOOP’s circular pallet system, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and innovation. This move is part of the company’s broader Future in Action strategy, which aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 through climate action, circularity, and natural resource management.

Vicki Elliott, National Sales Manager for Bagged Cement at Cemex UK, said: “This is a significant step forward for the cement industry. We’ve supported The Pallet LOOP from day one, signing its charter back in 2022. Now, we’re proud to be the first in our sector to integrate this solution into our supply chain. It’s about doing the right thing, as simply as possible – reducing waste, cutting carbon, and helping our customers make more sustainable choices.”

Pallet LOOP

The Pallet LOOP is an award-winning pallet reuse scheme designed specifically for the construction sector. Its model addresses a long-standing issue in construction logistics: the single-use pallet. Historically, fewer than 10% of pallets in the sector have been reused, generating over 250,000 tonnes of wood waste annually. LOOP’s green pallets are FSC-certified, built for multiple trips, and backed by a nationwide collection service that offers Rugby Cement customers financial incentives for returns.

Cemex’s adoption of LOOP pallets will begin with its core Rugby packed product range; Premium Cement (paper and plastic bags); High Strength; and Sulfate; with plans to expand across the full portfolio in future phases.

Elliott added: “This partnership reflects our belief that small steps toward circularity can make a big difference. We’re excited to work with our customers and partners to drive positive change across the industry.”

Andy Williamson, Managing Director at The Pallet LOOP, said: “This agreement shows how forward-thinking manufacturers such as Cemex are reimagining their supply chains, not just for efficiency, but for positive environmental impact. By choosing our circular economy pallets, Cemex is proving that sustainability and smart business can go hand in hand. They join a growing number of material manufacturers that are now using our pallets to great effect – driving benefits for their business and their customers. We’re excited to get pallets rolling for Cemex early next month, marking another major step forward in changing how materials move across the UK construction industry.”

For more information on Cemex’s sustainability strategy, visit https://www.cemex.co.uk/future-in-action. To learn more about The Pallet LOOP, visit www.thepalletloop.com

Government Scheme Leaves Homeowners in Ruin – And Nobody Cares!

Dylan Garton
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0
Government Scheme Leaves Homeowners in Ruin – And Nobody Cares!

SUPPORT SB – BECOME A MEMBER 👇
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9GdB6vG6m6cDAwrTAWXgyg/join
____________________________

LINKS

Insulation / Heat Pump / Retrofit / GBIS / ECO3 / ECO4 Nightmares
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1506021563885732

Nature Society‘s Campaigns
https://nature-society.org/campaigns/

Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) @ricsmediacentre
https://www.rics.org/

The Energy Company Obligation (ECO)
https://eco4.org.uk

PAS 2035 – Retrofitting Dwellings for improved Energy Efficiency @BritishStandardsInstitution
https://www.bsigroup.com/en-GB/insights-and-media/insights/brochures/pas-2035-retrofitting-dwellings-for-improved-energy-efficiency/

____________________________

Roger speaks with Duncan, a homeowner left without heating for over 2½ years after a failed air source heat pump installation under the UK government’s Eco4 scheme. His experience highlights the serious risks of poorly designed and poorly enforced retrofit projects.

Duncan’s house, a mix of sandstone and brick cavity walls, required careful planning. Instead, installers carried out inaccurate heat loss calculations, fitted undersized radiators, and failed to commission the system. At the same time, solar panels were added without a structural survey, worsening roof damage and forcing urgent repairs.

Beyond one homeowner’s plight, the case exposes systemic flaws: installers chasing grant money over quality, weak oversight of PAS standards, and no effective safety net for consumers left worse off. With only 1 in 1,000 installs properly inspected, thousands of homes face similar risks of high bills, cold rooms, condensation, and structural problems.

Frustrated but determined, Duncan has now launched a charity to help others caught in the same trap. His story is both a warning and a call to action for urgent reform in how government-backed green energy schemes are delivered.

Highlights

❄️ 2½ years without heating after a failed heat pump install.

📉 Flawed heat loss calculations and undersized radiators left the system unusable.

☀️ Solar panels fitted without structural checks caused roof sagging.

⚠️ 65,000+ solid wall homes could face condensation and mould due to poor retrofits.

🛑 No meaningful enforcement or consumer protection in place.

🤝 Duncan set up a charity to support other affected homeowners.

This Simple DIY Job Makes a Massive Difference!

Dylan Garton
-
0
This Simple DIY Job Makes a Massive Difference!

Stormdry Masonry Waterproofing Cream
🛒 https://go.skill-builder.uk/stormdry

BECOME A MEMBER 👇
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9GdB6vG6m6cDAwrTAWXgyg/join

ThermoPro TP350 Bluetooth Room Humidity Meter
🛒 https://amzn.to/3IBWwCT

Dryrod Damp Proofing Rods
🛒 https://amzn.to/3ICNENb

Brennenstuhl Moisture Detector MD
🛒 https://amzn.to/4f0fz67

____________________________

MORE INFO FROM @SafeguardEuropeLtd

Stormdry Masonry Protection Cream is a transparent waterproof brick sealant compatible with masonry, brickwork, mortar and concrete.

When used on the exterior walls of the home, Stormdry Cream water sealer delivers energy-saving benefits by waterproofing and sealing substrates to reduce heat loss.

It penetrates up to 12 mm on Fletton brick, preventing penetrating damp to protect the internal fabric of houses.

The invisible waterproof silicone cream can be applied by brush, roller or airless spray. Stormdry Cream cures to a natural finish. Approved by the British Board of Agrément to last 25 years after one single coat.

In independent tests carried out by a leading energy saving assessor (Alan Pither Ltd), a solid wall semi-detached house with Stormdry Cream application was found to save 8-10% on central heating costs when compared to an unprotected house.

When independently tested by world-leading processes testing laboratory Lucideon, Stormdry Cream was found to enhance the thermal performance of brick walls to create a kind of waterproof insulation.

Lucideon proved that Stormdry brick sealer shields brick walls from frost and heat damage. Stormdry Cream also protects against light spalling and cracks when compared to unprotected brick walls and can work as a concrete sealer.

Stormdry Cream lines the inner pores of brickwork instead of blocking them, maintaining their natural vapour permeability. Following their tests, Lucideon confirmed that Stormdry Cream transmits water vapour while protecting against liquid water.

Stormdry Cream is suitable for application to buildings with cavity wall and internal wall insulation as a clear exterior masonry paint. In both cases, Stormdry Cream protects insulation from dampness to enhance its thermal performance.

In homes already afflicted with penetrating damp, Stormdry Cream stops further moisture ingress as a wall sealer. This allows damp buildings to dry out and prevents penetrating damp in future.

Landlords face yield squeeze as Octane Capital reveals weakest investment areas

Dylan Garton
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0
Landlords face yield squeeze as Octane Capital reveals weakest investment areas

The latest research from specialist lender, Octane Capital, has revealed the areas of the market that have delivered the lowest rental returns over the last three years, highlighting where landlords approaching the end of their mortgage terms may face the greatest difficulty in refinancing, as properties risk falling outside lender interest coverage ratio (ICR) requirements.

Octane Capital analysed average yields achieved across Great Britain since 2023 to reveal the lowest yielding areas.

The research shows that, across the UK market as a whole, the average rental yield over the last three years has sat at 5.7%. However, yields have varied widely, with certain regions consistently underperforming.

Scotland has posted the strongest returns with a three-year average yield of 6.2%, with the North East (5.2%) and North West (5%) also performing well.

The South East is home to the weakest returns, with investors seeing an average yield of just 4.1% since 2022. The East of England has also struggled at 4.2%, followed by the East Midlands at 4.2% and the West Midlands at 4.4%. London, despite stronger recent rental growth, has averaged 4.5% over the same period.

However, when analysis the market at a more granular level, Octane Capital found that it’s Kensington and Chelsea that ranks as the lowest yielding area of the UK market, where average yields have sat at just 2.8% across the last three years,

Richmond upon Thames (3.0%), Elmbridge in the South East (3.0%), Waverley in Surrey (3.0%), and Derbyshire Dales (2.7%) also ranked amongst the areas offering the weakest returns to investors.

Other weak performers include Powys in Wales (2.9%), South Hams in the South West (2.9%), North Norfolk (3.1%), Rutland (3.1%) and Uttlesford in the East of England (3.1%).

Jonathan Samuels, CEO of Octane Capital, commented:

“Our latest research highlights the difficult reality for landlords in low-yielding parts of the market, where properties may no longer fit within ICR requirements as they approach the end of their current mortgage terms.

For many, the result is limited refinancing options from mainstream lenders and this is where specialist finance plays a vital role.

Bridging and short-term lending can provide the flexibility needed to manage the transition, whether that means restructuring, selling, or re-investing into stronger performing assets. At Octane Capital, we are continuing to support landlords with fast, tailored solutions that help them navigate today’s more challenging buy-to-let landscape and low-yielding investments often form a key part of this activity.”

Data Tables and Sources

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