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UK Set for Building Boom as 20,500 Planning Applications Approved per Month

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Research by debt advisory specialists, Sirius Property Finance, has revealed which areas of Britain look set for a property building boom, having seen the highest level of planning applications granted in recent months.

Sirius Property Finance analysed figures on the average monthly total planning applications submitted across each region of the UK, the average success rate of these applications and what this equates to in terms of total applications granted.

The research shows that across the UK, almost 24,500 planning applications are received on average each month, with just over 20,500 (84%) of those being successful.

Northern Ireland is home to the highest average monthly success rate for planning applications approved, with 95% of all applications given the green light each month, followed by the North East at 92% and Wales at 97%.

However, these regions are also home to some of the lowest average monthly totals of planning permission submitted, accounting for 0.5%, 2.3% and 3.8% of respective successful planning applications.

In fact, it’s the South East that looks set for the biggest building boom in 2023 so far, with 4,491 planning applications made on average each month.

While just 84% of these applications are successful, this equates to 3,772 successful applications every month, 18.4% of the UK total.

At just 75%, London is home to the lowest percentage of successful planning applications across the UK.

But despite this, the 3,444 successful bids seen across the capital every month account for 16.8% of the national total.

The East of England (12.7%), South West (10.4%) and North West (8.3%) also account for some of the highest levels of successful planning applications made each month across the UK.

Managing Director of Sirius Property Finance, Nicholas Christofi, commented:

“Despite the economic uncertainty that came during the closing stages of 2022, we’ve continued to see a high level of market activity when it comes to the financing of both commercial and residential developments across the UK.

Perhaps more telling is the higher propensity of these developments in higher value regions such as the South East and London, which suggest that a robust level of confidence remains in the market and that any fears of a property price downturn are largely behind us.

More encouraging still, is the fact that the majority of applications made are getting approval and this bodes very well for the health of the market moving forward, both in terms of ability to actually build, as well as the delivery of this stock to avoid any future periods of market stagnation.”

View full data tables online here.

Driveway Double Gates – Made to Measure

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Special thanks to Sam & Jen from SJ Ward Builders.
https://bit.ly/3eh17v0

Driveway Double Gates – Made to Measure

Abe from Skill Builder follows Sam and Jen on another building job.
They’re showing us how to hang some heavy-duty bespoke driveway gates this time.

Knock It Down or Save It? You Decide

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? Ask Skill Builder: http://skill-builder.uk/send

Roger looks at the front of a house which needs some attention but where would you start?

Bricklaying With Steve and Alex
? @SteveAndAlexBuild

Here’s our message from Dael:

Hi, I had numbers of builders coming to all give me a different approach to the issues.

So I made a decision to start somewhere to see the problem.

No damp course/injections really old, pointing done with cement instead of lime, cavity wall/air bricks blocked, gutters/drains blocked and renders keeping moisture inside and flooring indoors all damp and moist.

I have been looking at countless videos, information and suppliers to do correctly but I still find contradictory information.

I’m looking for a new damp course, repointing and the whole inside plastering and flooring.

Also to mention, this is only the front of the house. The back is literally the same.

I want to get experts and people to actually fix the problem instead of just a quick fix.

I really look forward to hearing from you, even if just with some pointers and contacts to reach.

Thank you

New College Durham Launches Retrofit Course to Tackle Green Skills Gap

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New College Durham is launching a new course which aims to address the retrofitting skills gap…

The Level 2 Award in Understanding Domestic Retrofit will provide the local workforce with the first step towards in-demand careers in the retrofit industry.

As part of the government’s net zero obligations, eleven million homes across the UK need to be retrofitted to reduce both energy consumption and emissions.

This will only be possible with raised awareness and a skilled workforce.

New college Durhams Level 2 Award is designed for anyone looking to gain a better understanding of retrofit, and can also help those with professional construction experience take the first step towards becoming a Retrofit Assessor, or work in the building insulation field.

Lee Baum, Green Skills Manager at New College Durham, said:

“There has never been a better time to start the Retrofit journey, whether your ambition is to become a Retrofit Assessor, you are a tradesperson who wants to understand best practice for building insulation to meet PAS2035 compliance or you just want to learn more about the topic, this course is packed with valuable content that ensures you make the right first step into retrofitting.

It will give you a comprehensive and easy-to-follow introduction to whole-house retrofit. You will gain an understanding of what domestic retrofit is, what it is supposed to achieve, what you need to know when working in the industry, and what to look out for when installing energy efficiency measures in homes.

Employers are increasingly seeking to develop a workforce who understand the fundamentals of retrofitting, so the course is designed to improve your employability skills.”

The Level 2 Award in Understanding Domestic Retrofit at New College Durham, starts on Monday 17 April at 5.30pm-8.30pm.

It runs for six weeks and is accredited by City and Guilds.

To find out more or enrol visit www.newdur.ac.uk, contact 0191 375 4040 or email help@newdur.ac.uk.

More From Skillbuilder – Green Plans On Retrofitting Insulation

Brownfield Sites: Can They Solve the Housing Crisis?

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Great Britain has an undersupply of housing units requiring 340,000 new builds annually until 2031.

The good news is official data indicates that there are currently 21,000 brownfield sites covering nearly 25,000 acres across the UK.

It is estimated that this acreage offers adequate space to build many housing units that could ease supply woes.

Land and Property Development

Brownfield land offers several advantages for builders, investors, and developers. They are usually located in urban areas where the need for land development is the greatest.

However, a topographical survey is needed to map out the land including existing buildings, trees, water courses, underground utilities, and so on.

The results of the survey are used in designing the development plan as well as in securing building or planning permissions.

It also enables developers to maximise land use and minimise errors. Hence, even if these sites are cheap to buy, site preparation and development may be pricey.

Knowing the topography of the site prevents developers from making costly mistakes.

Another benefit of investing in brownfields is the availability of infrastructure. For example, road and rail links may already be in place making the site accessible.

Furthermore, these locations may be part of a development or regeneration zone, so there may be grants or financial incentives offered by the government to help with land remediation.

To illustrate, the Brownfield Land Release Fund 2 (BLRF2) offers up to £180 million in capital grant funding to all English councils to support the release of brownfield sites owned by them for housing.

Furthermore, it’s often easier to obtain planning permissions for a brownfield site than a greenfield location.

Promote Brownfield Land Utilisation

Unfortunately, this land also has several downsides.

First, their locations are often in places where it is not attractive to housing development such as industrial areas.

Some may be found in former industrial towns or rural areas where the value of land is low.

Second, redevelopment is usually expensive for developers if the land requires demolition and site clearance.

Third, toxic materials may be present in the site because of its previous industrial activities, making remediation a costly expense.

Fourth, some brownfield sites may have an environmental or historical importance limiting their land use.

In short, even if the government prioritises brownfields over greenfields as reflected in the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill, the National Planning Policy Framework which is due for review this year must also emphasise its exploitation according to the Council for the Protection of Rural England (CPRE) or the Countryside Charity report.

Some of the proposed measures include only allowing greenfield development if used primarily for local affordable housing, increasing the Infrastructure Levy for greenfield land, and New Homes Bonus reforms to support brownfield development.

Overall, brownfield land has the potential to supply an enormous amount of lodging units to improve the housing crunch.

Making the sites attractive by providing incentives and limiting access to greenfield land can encourage more real estate investors and developers to put their money on brownfield housing development.

See more about construction on Skill Builder

What’s Supporting This Troublesome Chimney?

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? Ask Skill Builder: http://skill-builder.uk/send

Roger helps Jeff figure out the best approach to making his chimney safe.

Jeff’s message:

What, if anything, do I need to do about this?

Doing up what was the in-law’s house to sell it. The chimney breast was removed from the ground-floor kitchen and 1st-floor bedroom around 50+ yrs ago. My wife and older sister lived there from birth, and neither can remember the original airing cupboard being there.

So, I need to do ‘something’ cos the pointing is shot, and light is getting in halfway up the exposed stack above the roofline, not to mention rain when it’s windy. Hence the damage to the plasterboard.

Do I point the brickwork, cap the pot and re-board the ceiling?

Can I lay a 3m 2”x6” across the larger joists and frame fixings into the breast brickwork, then remove the lower course or two so nothing is just ‘hanging there’?

Or are the options 1) metalwork to support or 2) take it all down and make good the roof?

Trousers That Work as Hard as You Do – Only From Snickers Workwear

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With as many as 40,000 stitches and up to 64 pieces of fabric in a single pair of Snickers Workwear trousers, it’s little wonder they’re built to last and the preferred choice of discerning tradesmen and women.

Ergonomically designed for maximum comfort, freedom of movement and functionality, there are over 80 different styles and 71 different sizes in the Snickers Workwear Trouser system.

So you will always find a pair to suit you. The men’s and women’s Trousers range includes full stretch slim fit styles plus street-smart regular and looser fits throughout the full LiteWork, FlexiWork, RUFFwork and AllroundWork trouser families.

With at least 16 pocket compartments integral to every pair complimented by a choice of 8 different Kneepads, Snickers Workwear knows that your work trousers have to do a lot of things.

Keep you comfortable, carry your essentials, and protect your knees and legs from debris and hazards in the workplace.

So, whatever your trade, wherever you’re working and whatever your sustainability preferences are, you can be sure there is a pair of Snickers Workwear Trousers to suit you.

See more about Snickers on Skill Builder

Why Hasn’t This Simple Problem Been Fixed?

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Roger has another example of a problem with a simple solution, that has escaped the manufacturers.

This is easily solved with an arrow to indicate the water flow. Drayton needs to follow the example set by Honeywell.

Watch This Before Extending Your Home (common mistake)

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? Ask Skill Builder: http://skill-builder.uk/send

Roger looks at a badly prepared floor where the ventilation has been compromised.

Ventilating the sub floor in your house properly will help to prevent damp and moisture damage in your floorboards. The installation cost isn’t very high, and it will help you keep damp and moisture out.

Sub Floor Ventilation Guide with Checkatrade.
https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/cost-guides/sub-floor-ventilation-cost/

Here’s our message from Tris:

Hi there

Have been watching your videos for many years.

I have a question about my old Victorian terrace which my wife and I bought a year ago.

We have noticed that our rear kitchen extension has a poured slab and has therefore cut off any air circulation to the suspended timber floor in the front half of the house.

How worried do we need to be? When will mold start and joists begin to fail?

We have 2-3 air bricks on the front of the house but can’t see how we can fix the vent ssue properly without pulling the entire double living room floor up, and pouring a solid floor.

Would be great to see a video about suspended timber flooring, how to fix them, what options there may be (retrofit underfloor fans?), And any other thoughts.

Keen to hear more or see a video on the topic. Happy to answer any Qs you have.

Thanks

Tris

Marley Alutec Fascia and Guttering Adds Final Touch to Striking New-Build

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Marley Alutec has delivered a marine-grade aluminium guttering and fascia solution for an impressive new build property in rural Scotland.

In keeping with the property’s contemporary exterior design, Alutec supplied its sleek Aligator Boxer gutters, Flushfit downpipes and Evoke fascia panels, which crucially require little to no maintenance.

Located in Dollar, Clackmannanshire, the new development was designed by Denholm Partnership Architects, who were approached by the present owners to provide an attractive contemporary property with clean lines.

Marley Alutec 4

The architectural practice worked closely with the structural engineer and main contractor during the initial design phase to ensure they could fulfil this brief while utilising an existing substructure that was present onsite.

When specifying a rainwater system for the property, Marley Alutec’s Aligator Boxer gutters with 76mm Flushfit downpipes in RAL 7016 Anthracite Grey were selected.

These products provided a modern aesthetic in keeping with the property. Plus, due to their makeup of marine-grade aluminium, they would also be a maintenance-free solution.

Bob Gunn, Senior Architectural Technician at Denholm Partnership Architects commented: “Specifying aluminium guttering has become a standard process on most of our projects.

While we have used other manufacturers, Marley Alutec is often our first choice due to the durability and flexibility of its product range.”

Marley Alutec 2

The project’s main contractor, Ian Brydie of Brydie Construction and Masonry also suggested that Marley Alutec’s Evoke fascia sheet panels, in Anthracite Grey, would be ideal for creating neat, clean lines between the different clad, glazed and rendered elements of the façade, adding another element to the design.

Ian, who worked closely with Alutec’s Area Sales Manager for Scotland in the run up to the installation, commented: “Marley Alutec’s Evoke panelling is a high-quality, thick aluminium system that is easy to cut to size onsite, form and install.

My local Marley Alutec representative was very helpful and allowed me to trial the v-groove tool on some scrap material so that I could see how straightforward it was to groove and form the panels to 90° myself.”

Marley Alutec 1

By cutting and forming the Evoke panels onsite, Ian was able to speed up the installation process as he could form sections of the material as and when required and did not have to wait for pre-formed materials to be delivered.

With the guttering and downpipes also quick and easy to install, in a similar manner to PVC systems, it did not take Ian long to finish the installation.

About Marley Alutec

With an extensive portfolio of highly sustainable products, Marley Alutec is the UK leader in innovative aluminium gutters, aluminium downpipes, fascia, soffit and coping solutions.

Committed to delivering the excellent service and technical expertise that only comes from partnering with a specialist manufacturer, Alutec offers a full turnkey service, from the development of initial designs to the delivery of detailed estimates and on-site assistance.

Backed by many years of experience in all aspects of roof drainage and eaves design for both modern and traditional building methods, the Alutec Technical Services team is on hand to provide guidance and support throughout the specification process – whether that’s designing entire schemes from an architect’s plan, or providing a quantity schedule to the contractor or an installation guide for the plumber.

To find out more about Marley Alutec’s range of aluminium rainwater gutter and roofline systems, visit www.marleyalutec.co.uk.

See more about Marley on Skill Builder

SUNOTEC Builds Solar Parks With 2.3 Gigawatt Output

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Last year, SUNOTEC delivered photovoltaic solar parks with an output of around 2.3 gigawatts peak (GWp).

By way of comparison, the whole of France built PV plants supplying 2.7 GWp in the same twelve-month period.

2022 turned out to be the most successful year in the company’s history, as the market leader in the construction of ground-mounted photovoltaic plants connected more than 70 new solar parks to the grid in Europe.

“2022 has shown us the extent to which war, climate crisis and uncertainty in energy supply impact on modern society,” says SUNOTEC CEO Bernhard Suchland.

“At the same time, it has become clear what a positive difference the solar industry can make.” Kaloyan Velichkov, Founder and CEO of SUNOTEC agrees: “We at SUNOTEC are proud of our permanent workforce, now numbering more than 1,000 employees, as well as our own fleet of more than 400 specialized machines and vehicles which enable our company and us to make such a big contribution.”

Solar Parks and the Future

He singles out as an example the largest solar power plant in Bulgaria, which SUNOTEC is building on the fringe of the Verila Mountains, approximately one hour south of the capital Sofia by road. This PV project alone will increase Bulgaria’s photovoltaic output by 12 per cent. The Verila plant comprises 220,230 solar modules that will supply 124 megawatts peak. The planned completion date is sometime in spring 2023.

Kaloyan Velichkov & Bernhard Suchland

Building Solar Parks Even in Difficult Terrain

“With the total capacity installed by the industry last year, the world has taken another big step towards green energy security,” says SUNOTEC CEO Bernhard Suchland.

“Nevertheless, this can only be the beginning. The Federal Network Agency recently asserted that, for Germany alone, we need to bring an additional 1.5 gigawatts of solar power online every month if we want to meet the national government’s target of 215 gigawatts by 2030. We can achieve this if we massively increase roll-out in all installations.”

Such enormous growth in a relatively short time is only achievable if land for solar plants is used as efficiently as possible, explains Founder and CEO Kaloyan Velichkov.

In the case of solar parks, this ranges from former agricultural fields, where native wild plants are sown between and under the modules for more biodiversity, to the use of land that presents natural obstacles to farming: “At the Verila solar park in Bulgaria, for example, we have to cope with hilly terrain that is sometimes as steep as 18 degrees.”

SUNOTEC’s ability to register even more significant growth in the number of gigawatts installed in 2023 depends on factors such as supply chains and approval procedures, says CEO Bernhard Suchland: “But we are very positive about our prospects and highly motivated after last year’s results.”

The first solar parks to be completed in 2023 include Doellen, Germany (91 MWp), Bubney, United Kingdom (40.4 MWp), Groot Roodehaan, The Netherlands (33.3 MWp). Numerous others are under construction.

SUNOTEC Solar Parks 2

About SUNOTEC

SUNOTEC is Europe’s market leader in the construction of ground-mounted photovoltaic plants. Based in Sofia (Bulgaria) and Munich (Germany), the company currently employs more than 1,000 people.

With more than 400 solar power plants having now been built and connected to the grid (total output of 6.3 GWp), SUNOTEC has made a significant contribution to a sustainable and green energy mix in Europe, Africa and the Middle East.

Find more information, go to sunotec-group.com or follow us on

The Bulgarian and German language versions of this press release can be found in our Newsroom.

Die bulgarische und deutsche Fassung dieser Pressemitteilung finden Sie in unserem Newsroom.

Българската и немската езикова версия на това прессъобщение можете да откриете в нашия Newsroom.

Related links

See more about solar on Skill Builder

4 Roofers Couldn’t Solve This Damp Chimney. Can You?

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? Ask Skill Builder: http://skill-builder.uk/send

Roger takes a look at a problem Carl Fielding has with a leaking chimney.

Here is Carl’s message:

I am having issues with my chimney leaking in the attic.

I have had multiple roofers come and look and even had a re-roof done. I was told the issue was gone and even got the attic re-plastered, but the issue is still there. I have had many roofers say different things, from a “Porous” chimney to bad fitting of lead work.

After the many pounds spent and the many useless roofers I have had, I want to try and fix the issue myself. I would classify myself as a good DIYer as I have fitted kitchens, bathrooms, stud walls, fences etc.
I have got to the point where I am watching youtube videos on actually removing the chimney lol.

It would be amazing if you guys could do some videos on repairing an old chimney or lead flashing etc or even common roofing issues as well. Please have a look and see what you think?

Kindest regards, Carl.

Why Is The Wall Damp & How Did He Fix It?

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Special thanks go to Sam & Jen from SJ Ward Builders.
https://bit.ly/3eh17v0

Wicking, also known as capillary action, occurs when moisture is drawn up a wall from the ground, typically due to a lack of or a faulty damp-proof course. It can cause severe structural damage and mould growth if left untreated.

Other underlying issues that may cause wicking include poor drainage or a high water table. It’s essential to maintain proper drainage around the foundation, regularly check for cracks or defects in the walls and ensure that any renovations or additions to the building are made with proper damp-proofing measures in place.

Mystery Leak Reveals Schoolboy Error

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This is a very common problem that keeps cropping up on Skill Builder.

Here is Joe’s message:

Roger! Your advice saved our new build home and has probably avoided thousands £££ worth of damage.

Moved into a new build home 4 weeks ago and with the onset of colder weather, we began to use the heating.

Realizing that some of the radiators were cold to touch, they needed air bleeding, which I then re-pressured the system via the filling loop valve.

However, over the past week or so, it keep losing pressure. I re-pressured and the following day it would be zero bar again. It culminated with a leak tonight.

After watching your video and following your advice, I re-pressured, and checked the radiators and an en-suite radiator was leaking. Called out an emergency plumber.

They quickly diagnosed that the tradesperson who installed it drilled a screw through the pipe when installing the plastic plate/cover.

LEAKING inside the cavity wall over the past few weeks until the screw had given up, and then it leaked. If I hadn’t of watched your video for advice (as advice from a new build developer is non-existent), this could have gone unnoticed for weeks/months.

Thank you very much! I’ve been following your channel for a while now, and I continue to watch your videos! I’ve attached photos of what happened.

Thanks so much! if I hadn’t watched your video, it would have never led me to find this leak and poor workmanship!

10 Things You Need to Look for When Buying Your First Home

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Buying your first home can be an exciting and overwhelming experience. It’s essential to keep in mind that this is likely the biggest purchase you will ever make, and it’s essential to take the time to research and make informed decisions. Here are 12 things to keep in mind when looking for your first home.

Location

Consider the location of the home in relation to your work, schools, and other essential places. Look for a neighbourhood that is safe and has amenities nearby. Consider also the proximity to public transportation, grocery stores, and other essentials.

Size

Think about your current and future needs. Are you planning on starting a family or do you have a lot of visitors? Make sure the home has enough bedrooms and bathrooms to accommodate your needs. Consider also the size of the living room, kitchen, and other common areas.

Condition

Look at the overall condition of the home. Is it in need of major repairs or renovations? It’s important to factor in the cost of any repairs or updates when determining if the home is a good fit. Pay attention to the roof, electrical and plumbing systems, and other critical components of the home.

Plot size

Look at the size of the lot the home sits on. Is it big enough for your needs? Consider if you want a backyard or a larger front yard. Consider how the lot size may impact your privacy and outdoor living space.

Age

Consider the age of the home. An older home may have more character, but it may also come with more maintenance and repair costs. Look for homes that have been recently updated or have had regular maintenance.

School Catchment Area

If you have children or plan to have children, research the school district the home is located in. Look for schools with high test scores, safe environments, and good reputations.

Resale value

Keep in mind that this home may not be your forever home. Consider how the home will hold up when it comes time to sell. Look for homes in high-demand areas with features that are popular among buyers.

Commute

Look at the distance from the home to your work and any other places you frequently visit. Consider how long your commute will be and if it’s something you’re willing to deal with. Think about the impact the commute could have on your quality of life and your work-life balance.

Homeowners Association (HOA)

If the home is part of an HOA, make sure you understand the rules and regulations and the fees associated with being part of the community. Consider if the HOA provides services or amenities that you would value.

Property Taxes (Council Tax)

Research the property taxes for the home. They can vary greatly depending on the location, and it’s essential to factor in the cost when determining if the house is affordable.

Natural Disasters

Research the area’s natural disaster risk, such as floods, earthquakes, tornadoes, or hurricanes. It’s important to consider whether the home is in a high-risk area and has any protective measures in place.

Energy Efficiency

Look for homes that have energy-efficient features such as double-pane windows, high-efficiency heating and cooling systems, and energy-efficient appliances.

 

Not only will these features save you money on your utility bills, but they will also help you reduce your carbon footprint and positively impact the environment.

Buying your first home is a big decision, and it’s essential to take the time to research and make informed decisions.

By keeping these 12 things in mind, you can be sure that you’re making the best choice for you and your family.

Upgrade Your Shower with Fresh Silicone — DIY Guide

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🛒 https://amzn.to/3ZYtnG0
Dryzone Silicone Sealant Replacement Kit (Anti Mould)

Complete kit for Professional looking joints in Kitchens and Bathrooms.

• All-in-one Silicone Sealant Replacement Kit – everything you need to successfully replace damaged, discoloured and mouldy sealant in bathrooms and kitchens

• Don’t revive or retouch – replace! Dryzone Silicone Sealant Remover breaks down existing sealant so it can be easily lifted away with included removal tool

• Sanitary-grade professional Anti-Mould Dryzone Silicone Sealant White x2 included – fewer binders and more pure silicone than competing brands for a strong and lasting bond. Naturally anti-bacterial. Low VOCs and Low Odour

• Enhance your DIY skills, learn a life-long skill and say goodbye to expensive handyman fees! Contains an in-depth instruction booklet with Pro Tips for quality results

• Profile to perfection – versatile removal and profiling tool ensures contractor-quality fit and finish on all types of joint

• High-quality sealant applicator gun for your DIY toolkit included

Snickers Workwear’s NEW Stretch Trousers Work as Hard as You Do

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Made from the long-lasting, innovative Sorona® performance fabric and CORDURA® for long-lasting comfort, functionality and sustainability.

It’s the innovative design and sustainable fabric technology in the newest Work Trousers for men and women from Snickers Workwear that really set them apart from other brands.

Delivering comfort and safety features when they’re needed most, these slim-fit Trousers are Class 1 and Class 2 certified and made from innovative Sorona® sustainable performance fibre.

Sorona Stretch Trousers 2

They also come with the patented KneeGuard® system and CORDURA® reinforcement in the knees and pockets.

Sorona® delivers both environmental benefits and long-lasting performance.

This recyclable, bio-based fibre offers exceptional softness and stretchability for maximum comfort as well as excellent durability to help extend the lifetime of a garment.

It’s also quick-drying, breathable and soft to the touch for optimal performance that will last through wash after wash, retaining shape, comfort and protection levels throughout the life of the garments.

Waterproof Workwear for the Winter

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Effective garment waterproofing is a hallmark of Snickers Workwear’s winter clothing.

Whichever Snickers Workwear Jacket you choose, you can count on real comfort and protection from rain and foul weather.

Stay dry, warm and comfortable by choosing from a range of water-repellent jackets with welded seams that will keep you dry in light showers and deliver great breathability to ventilate your body when you’re active on site.

Waterproof Workwear 2

But if you need 100% waterproofness for long periods, check out the GORE-TEX® jackets. These highly technical garments are waterproof to keep you dry, windproof to keep you warm, and breathable to keep you comfortable all day long

There’s a host of AllroundWork and FlexiWork jacket styles and extensive size options available for tradesmen and women, so you can layer your working clothes properly to ensure that your energy and performance levels are as weatherproofed as you need to be.

Foam Loft Insulation – 6 Problems To Avoid

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There are a few main problems with foam loft insulation:

Expense

Spray foam insulation can be more expensive than other types of insulation, such as fibreglass or cellulose.

The material is lightweight and easy to install, and it can be a more efficient way to keep a home warm and reduce energy bills.

The cost of foam insulation can vary depending on the insulation type and the project size, but it is generally more affordable than other insulation materials.

Additionally, because the insulation is lightweight and easy to install, the installation process can be completed quickly, which can help to reduce labour costs.

Overall, foam insulation can be a cost-effective solution for insulating a home.

Health and Safety Concerns

Spray foam insulation releases volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air during installation, harming the installer and building occupants.

The material can contain harmful chemicals that irritate the skin, and dust particles can be released into the air during installation.

It is important to wear protective clothing and safety equipment while handling the material.

Additionally, the insulation should be installed away from sources of heat or flame and in dry areas, away from water sources.

It is important to follow all safety guidelines and regulations when handling and installing foam insulation to ensure that it does not pose a health or safety risk.

Difficulty of Installation

Professional contractors typically apply spray foam insulation, and the installation process can be messy and time-consuming.

Additionally, if not applied correctly, foam loft insulation may not provide an adequate seal, resulting in drafts and heat loss.

Problems With Foam Insulation in Lofts

Potential for Fire

Foam insulation can be a significant fire hazard if not installed correctly. The material is highly flammable and can ignite if exposed to a flame or heat source.

It is important to keep foam loft insulation away from sources of heat or flame, such as light fixtures, space heaters, or stoves.

It is also important to keep combustible materials from the insulation, such as paper, cardboard, or fabric. Additionally, the insulation should be properly ventilated to ensure that any fumes or smoke are directed safely away from the building.

It is important to follow all safety and installation guidelines when installing foam insulation to ensure that it does not pose a fire hazard.

The difficulty of removal

Removing foam insulation can be a difficult and time-consuming process. The material is lightweight and can be challenging to remove in large pieces.

It is important to wear protective clothing and safety equipment while removing foam insulation to protect against skin irritation and inhalation of dust particles.

Additionally, the insulation should be carefully removed from any electrical wiring or pipes in the area.

After the insulation is removed, it must be disposed of properly, and any debris should be cleaned up thoroughly.

Removing foam insulation can be difficult, and it is important to take the necessary safety precautions.

Impact on Ventilation

If the foam is not applied correctly, it can block vents and other necessary openings for proper attic ventilation.

This can lead to moisture problems and mould growth, which can cause it to break down and lose its insulating capabilities.

Loft insulation should be installed in dry areas, away from water sources.

Final Thoughts

It is essential to consider these potential issues when deciding whether or not to use foam loft insulation and hiring a professional with experience and knowledge in applying this type of insulation is critical.

Further Reading

Spray foam insulation explainedWhich
Find out about the different types of spray foam, if spray foam insulation is right for your home and how much spray foam insulation costs.

Spray Foam Insulation GuideHomebuilding and Renovating
In the right setting, and installed by the right professional, spray foam insulation can be a good choice.

See more about spray foam on Skill Builder

Water Seeping Under Door and Wall

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Roger looks at the problem of water leaking under the front door threshold.

Aco Hex Drain Channel & Grating
https://amzn.to/3GT48MN

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