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Home USB Charging Just Got Faster Thanks to Knightsbridge

Dylan Garton
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Home USB Charging Just Got Faster Thanks to Knightsbridge

Domestic USB charging points continue to grow in popularity with homeowners, and Knightsbridge – one of the UK’s leading manufacturer of wiring devices, accessories, and lighting – is leading the trend with the introduction of 230V 13A two-gang switched sockets that uniquely support FASTCHARGE* in two USB ports.

The sockets have either a Type-A USB port, for the most encountered chargers, and a Type-C, which is fast becoming the device charging standard; or two Type-A ports. In either combination, however, both ports are FASTCHARGE enabled. This means that a device compatible with QC2.0/ QC3.0 (Quick Charge) or PD FASTCHARGE can achieve up to a 50% charge in 30 minutes or less.

ML2105FC Knightsbridge USB charging sockets

Both outlets are capable of delivering between 5V DC and 12V DC at a maximum of 3A. Standard charging mode provides up to 10W for both USB types; although charging rates depend on the type of device, for instance, mobile phones ‘determine’ how much power to draw.

The total output is a maximum of 4A when both outlets are in use. The Knightsbridge sockets are unique in the market in being able to shift voltages up to 9 or 12V in either port to achieve 18W.

For instance, the typical Type-C smartphone will draw a maximum of 3A. FASTCHARGE increases that to 18W by switching up the voltages so that 12V x 1.5A = 18W. On the other hand, competitor products will typically languish at 15W (5V x 3A = 15W).

The Knightsbridge FASTCHARGE ports are instantly recognisable over standard items with a distinctive orange port insert colour. Finish options for both socket types include Matt White, Matt Black and Brushed Chrome from its Screwless range and Brushed Chrome in Raised Edged Square. A choice of pin inserts in white, grey or black is available for all Brushed Chrome models.

Finally, all Knightsbridge USB FASTCHARGE 13A two-gang switched sockets are warrantied for two years.

For further details of the Knightsbridge innovative wiring accessories and lighting products, please visit www.mlaccessories.co.uk or call 01582 887760.

*Apple devices do not support PD FASTCHARGE, but the use of certified cables will achieve an optimum charge rate of up to 5V 3A.

See more on electrical wiring accessories with Skill Builder.

Enhanced Visibility and Safety With Snickers Workwear Hi-Vis

Dylan Garton
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0
Enhanced Visibility and Safety With Snickers Workwear Hi-Vis

A Superior Range of Hi Vis Protective Wear – for all kinds of light conditions.

Snickers Workwear takes personal wellbeing at work very seriously. That’s why this range of Hi-Vis protective wear is streets ahead of anything else.

 

Revolution 2 Safety Trainer

With updated styles and designs added to the extensive range of Jackets, Trousers, Shorts, Toolvests, Shirts and Fleeces for men and women, there’s a host of garments in the range to satisfy the specific requirements of Classes 1, 2 and 3 protection levels.

These ‘outstanding’ products combine Snickers’ unrivalled hallmarks of functionality and comfort with the requirements of the EN20471 standard for high visibility warning clothes.

With advanced designs and high-tech fabrics that are windproof and water-repellent, all the garments have durable, colour-fast protection that will last for wash after wash, retaining shape and comfort throughout the life of the garments.

Added to which, Snickers Workwear Hi Vis garments can be custom-profiled to ensure ‘stand out’ coverage for your corporate brand.

Getting more information on the Snickers Workwear range of ProtecWork and Snickers Workwear Hi-Vis protective wear is easy. You call the Helpline on 01484 854788; check out www.snickersworkwear.co.uk and download a digital catalogue; or you can email info@snickersworkwear.co.uk

Seismic Savings in Blast Protection

Dylan Garton
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0
Seismic Savings in Blast Protection

Seismic activity may be rare in the UK, but many buildings and critical infrastructure need to be protected from blasts. The cost of specialised equipment capable of withstanding the forces and violent movement caused by seismic and blast activity can be extortionate. However, there is an alternative, more efficient way of providing this blast protection than the traditionally expensive ‘ruggedisation’ method. Here, Adam Fox, director of vibration control specialist Mason UK, explains how you can provide effective blast protection in projects, including where vibration isolation is also required.

Say ‘seismic activity’ in the UK and you might just think of a few damaged chimney pots. Yet while genuine seismic activity might be rare, the engineering expertise that is used to protect buildings from seismic activity still has relevant applications. Bomb blasts or terrorist activity can subject buildings and critical infrastructure to what is euphemistically referred to as ‘accidental loads.’

Faced with these accidental loads, buildings need to remain viable. They must remain stable enough for people to evacuate and firefighters to enter if needed.

Seismic Savings with Restrained spring mount and housing

You also want to avoid the ventilation or water supply being taken out by the blast. Consequences like these could be disastrous, especially in military installations or for critical infrastructure like power stations.

Engineers, therefore, design buildings with these criteria in mind. The basic engineering principles were set out in the International Building Code that was designed with the help of our big brother across the pond, Mason Industries, in the 1970s.

In many conventional buildings, the volume of steel and concrete provides sufficient blast protection, but in situations where you need to introduce a structural break for vibration isolation reasons, you require a different level of engineering expertise.

For example, let’s say you have a building that is mounted on a series of columns and is near a train line. You might place one of our bearings on top of the column, to protect the building from the vibration caused by the train.

Suddenly, you have a soft connection between the column and the structure it is supporting. So how do you make sure the column is fit to withstand the accidental loads referred to before?

In these situations, where vibration isolation meets blast protection requirements, there are two solutions. The more simple, traditional approach is to apply heavy restraints which can be seriously expensive and if poorly designed can easily negate the benefit of the vibration control measures It is more efficient for cost and performance to design a connection that respects both.

Ensuring building services remain operational can keep a building running. Expensive ‘ruggedised’ plant equipment can cope with forces but the smarter, far cheaper engineering solution would involve combing anti-vibration mounts with inbuilt restraints.

The former provides general vibration isolation but will also reduce any forces from a blast or accidental load down to levels that standard, off the shelf equipment can withstand.

The equipment in the video shows spring mounts with seismic restraints cushioning a pump and motor. It may look violent but the goal is to reduce forces down to less than the equipment would see when being shipped to site.

We have worked on many projects for the military and government, as well as for buildings whose function just cannot be interrupted for repairs. We worked to provide a holistic engineering solution, ensuring the entire system was designed to withstand accidental loads and protect critical infrastructure.

If you need to introduce structural breaks for vibration isolation, or need to meet blast protection criteria, you face a problem. However, the problem is not that we lack a viable engineering solution in these situations.

The problem is, so many developers, architects and engineers are simply not aware that this kind of engineering solution is available and therefore fork out extortionate sums on ruggedization and extra testing.

Mason UK is a vibration isolation specialist with extensive expertise in seismic engineering. To discover how their products and engineering can assist your projects, visit mason-uk.co.uk, email info@masonuk.co.uk or call (01252) 716610.

Moving Heavy Steel Beams ~ 35A Extension #6

Dylan Garton
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0
Moving Heavy Steel Beams ~ 35A Extension #6
Roger and Steve shift some heavy steel beams..

Another vintage episode from the 35A Extension series where we see around.

Why Doesn’t Every Decorator Know This? – High Performance Paint

Dylan Garton
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0
Why Doesn’t Every Decorator Know This? – High Performance Paint
Roger visits Handford + Green to see how they make their high performance paint.

https://www.hanfordandgreen.com

About Hanford + Green

Hanford + Green was established by a team with decades of experience in paint manufacturing, building and commercial decorating. They set out to provide high-performance paint that the commercial sector needs, meeting each of the challenges of large-scale commercial projects head-on.

Barnstaple Gas Engineer Prosecuted Following Unsafe Asbestos Removal at a Tenants’ Home

Dylan Garton
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0
Barnstaple Gas Engineer Prosecuted Following Unsafe Asbestos Removal at a Tenants’ Home

A gas engineer’s asbestos removal was potentially dangerous during a gas boiler replacement putting himself and others at risk from exposure to asbestos fibres.

Brian Hockin, aged 58, was removing an old warm air heating system at a residential property on Williams Close, Wrafton when he disturbed a quantity of asbestos insulation board that surrounded the warm air boiler.

The tenants of the property raised their concerns with Brian Hockin that he had disturbed asbestos but he continued to remove the material bagging it and removing it from the property and storing it at his yard.

The tenants were so concerned that they contacted the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) which prosecuted Brian Hockin at Barnstaple Magistrates’ court.

During the hearing, the court heard that Brian Hockin used no safety measures to prevent the spread of asbestos and that he used no protective clothing or protective breathing apparatus when he was removing the asbestos.

Brian Hockin of Bickington, near Barnstaple, pleaded guilty of breaching Section 3(2) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 and was fined £450 and ordered to pay £921.40 in costs.

Asbestos Removal Danger

HSE Inspector Simon Jones, speaking after the trial, said: “Brian Hockin’s negligence could result in serious health effects to both him and anyone else who may have come into contact with the asbestos material that he disturbed.

“Given Mr Hockin’s vast experience as a gas engineer, he should have realised that there is a very good chance that a 30-year-old gas boiler could be insulated with asbestos insulation board but he made no checks before working around the material.

He then compounded matters by ignoring concerns raised by the tenants that the material that he had disturbed was asbestos and carried on removing the material.

“Tradesmen should always be aware that asbestos can be found in any industrial or residential building built or refurbished before the year 2000.

“Tradesmen should make enquiries as the presence of asbestos before starting work and if they suspect that they have come across asbestos during work they should stop work immediately and confirm what the material is and arrange for it to be dealt with by properly trained asbestos removal professionals in a safe manner’

Asbestos Removal advice

MORE FROM HSE

Why is Asbestos Dangerous?

  • Asbestos still kills around 5000 workers each year, this is  more than the number of people killed on the road.
  • Around 20 tradesman die each week as a result of past exposure
  • However, asbestos is not just a problem of the past. It can be present today in any building built or refurbished before the year 2000.

When materials that contain asbestos are disturbed or damaged, fibres are released into the air. When these fibres are inhaled they can cause serious diseases. These diseases will not affect you immediately; they often take a long time to develop, but once diagnosed, it is often too late to do anything. This is why it is important that you protect yourself now.

Asbestos can cause the following fatal and serious diseases:

Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a cancer which affects the lining of the lungs (pleura) and the lining surrounding the lower digestive tract (peritoneum). It is almost exclusively related to asbestos exposure and by the time it is diagnosed, it is almost always fatal.

Asbestos-related lung cancer

Asbestos-related lung cancer is the same as (looks the same as) lung cancer caused by smoking and other causes. It is estimated that there is around one lung cancer for every mesothelioma death.

Asbestosis

Asbestosis is a serious scarring condition of the lung that normally occurs after heavy exposure to asbestos over many years. This condition can cause progressive shortness of breath, and in severe cases can be fatal.

Pleural thickening

Pleural thickening is generally a problem that happens after heavy asbestos exposure. The lining of the lung (pleura) thickens and swells. If this gets worse, the lung itself can be squeezed and can cause shortness of breath and discomfort in the chest.

Note: It is also important to remember that people who smoke, and are also exposed to asbestos fibres, are at a much greater risk of developing lung cancer.

Further information about asbestos safety can be found at www.hse.gov.uk/asbestos

More on asbestos: 5 Warning signs of asbestos poisoning

Laying Clay Roof Tiles ~ Extension Build #8

Dylan Garton
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0
Laying Clay Roof Tiles ~ Extension Build #8
In Part 8 of our How To Build An Extension series, the roofers are in to show us a fine example of laying clay roof tiles, reclaimed clay tiles from Swallow’s Tiles.

http://www.sihg.org.uk/swallowsrooftiles

Hellberg Safety Launch New Safety Eyewear

Dylan Garton
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0
Hellberg Safety Launch New Safety Eyewear

Find Focus with Hellberg’s range of all-new specialist safety glasses and goggles.

Renowned for its hi-spec PPE that includes advanced hearing protection products, face protection and communication solutions, Hellberg Safety is launching a new range safety eyewear.

With a wide range of street-smart styles, from basic to premium – the new range ensures a consistently clear line of sight and safe vision for professional tradesmen and women wherever they’re working on site.

Built with lightweight, durable materials and specially developed lens technology, the eyewear provides complete protection, and comfort throughout the working day and can be easily combined with other PPE including ear defenders, safety helmets, and visors.

With a focus on enhanced safety in all conditions, Hellberg glasses and goggles have impact-resistant lenses with anti-scratch and anti-fog coating on both sides and there are styles that can be worn over prescription glasses.

Around the lens, the ergonomic design, incorporates practical features, like a soft nose bridge and ‘adjustable temples’, making sure the glasses stay in place and fit safely allowing you to keep your focus all day long.

See more from Hellberg Safety with Skill Builder.

Solutions for Treating Damp with Damian Wallis

Dylan Garton
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0
Solutions for Treating Damp with Damian Wallis
Roger is joined by Damian Wallis of Safeguard Europe, the leading manufacturer and supplier of specialist products for treating damp, damp-proofing and waterproofing.

https://www.safeguardeurope.com

Safeguard has grown to become a market leader in the UK and now exports throughout the world. All products are manufactured under an ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 quality & environmental control system, audited by the BSI. The product ranges are accredited by a wide range of industry authorities and international testing houses.

They pride themselves on industry-leading technical knowledge and an ability to innovate by developing and manufacturing new products.

Tile Giant Reward for Trade Customers

Bronte Garton
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0
Tile Giant Reward for Trade Customers

Nationwide tile retailer Tile Giant has launched a new reward scheme exclusively for trade customers.

Tile Giant, which has 110 branches across the UK, is promising discounts of up to 50 per cent on certain products to card holders.

Tradespeople who sign up for a free Trade Rewards card will benefit from:

• All tiles 15 per cent off
• All tools and accessories 20 per cent off
• All adhesives and grouts at least 35 per cent off All trims 50 per cent off
• Monthly exclusive Trade Deals

Rewards offered will increase with use of the card, with credit vouchers issued for redemption in branch depending on monthly spend.

In addition, professionals who recommend Tile Giant to their clients will also be rewarded with a further five per cent reward when the end user buys tiles from Tile Giant.

Sign up is free in-store and exclusively for professionals, with tradesmen only needing to provide evidence of their trade status (business card, invoice, letterhead) to join. Signing up will also allow full visibility of all transactions made at Tile Giant and the rewards collected.

The Trade Rewards card and key fob can be used in branch and online at tilegiant.co.uk/trade

Johnny Rockett, Tile Giant’s National Trade Manager, says: “We want to make it easier and more rewarding for trade customers to keep coming back to Tile Giant.

“Trade Rewards is a very competitive trade offer with many benefits, for tradesmen and their customers, making Tile Giant the first choice on the market for tiles and tiling accessories and supplies. The more you use the card, the more you’ll save on our industry-leading range of tiles, tools, grouts and adhesives and accessories.”

www.tilegiant.co.uk

How To Lay Paving Perfectly With Tobermore

Dylan Garton
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0
How To Lay Paving Perfectly With Tobermore

Sperrin on How To Lay Paving

Skill Builder travelled to Northern Ireland to see the boys from Sperrin Paving laying a patio and some paving using Tobermore paving products.

They also built a retaining wall and a boundary wall to complement the retaining wall. Roger Bisby has laid a few patios in his time but this method of laying the Historic Paving onto a dry sharp sand was a revelation.

Roger commented “Normally I would use a bed of mortar and tap each slab down. This is the way I was shown by the old-timers but it is a slow method and you do get problems with levels if one bit of mortar shrinks more than another and if you get a rocking slab it can mean putting down more mortar.

The Dry Bed Method

The dry bed method is not only quicker it also allows you to sort out any problems that might occur down the line. If for example, you get a bit of a dip over the top of a drain run you can simply pick up a few slabs, put down a bit more sand and lay the slabs down again.”

The dry bed method is made possible because Tobermore slabs are 50mm thick and they are absolutely uniform in thickness. Once you get the bed flat putting the slabs down is the quickest job ever.

The video shows Roger completely amazed to see that half the patio was down after day one and that also included building some steps and a retaining wall using Secura Lite walling. The wall is built completely without mortar and cleverly interlocks.

Another big advantage of the dry bed method is that it allows a lot of the water to permeate through the paving so it helps to reduce flooding.

The video is packed full of useful tips for the competent DIYer who fancies laying their own patio but it also highlights the advantages of using a Tobermore approved contractor if are thinking of hiring the professionals.

Tobermore supports its network of Approved Contractors with a design service and product samples so the customer can see and feel the products before they commit to them.

Advanced Production Process

Arguably the best bit of the video is right at the end when Roger explains how Tobermore’s advanced production process produces a product that is not only colour-fast but extremely hard-wearing.

All too often concrete paving begins to fade and show signs of deterioration within a few years of being laid. The old method of making cast paving meant that the pigment was mixed through the whole thickness of the slab or block.

This sounds like a good thing when you first hear it but in reality, it means that you are spreading the pigment over parts of the paving that will never see the light of day.

By placing the pigment in the wear layer and adding the hardener in there as well, this Premium Top gives you unrivalled durability and colour.

You would imagine that this kind of extra quality comes at a premium but the cost is actually very competitive with thinner less durable products. Take a look at the video and see if you agree that it is not only the fastest easiest paving to lay but it is also one of the best-looking ranges on the market.

Tobermore Products Used

Secura Lite antique retaining wall blocks

Charcoal Step Risers

Historic Slate Paving Flags

Sienna Sandstone Setts

Tegula Bracken Setts

Support Docs & Guides

PDF Download IconTobermore Historic Circles Installation Guidelines.pdf

PDF Download IconTobermore Historic Flags & Circles.pdf

PDF Download IconTobermore Historic Flags.pdf

PDF Download IconTobermore Sienna Setts & Circles.pdf

PDF Download IconTobermore Tegula.pdf

Credits

Special thanks go to Tobermore and Sperrin Paving.

Check out the official Tobermore website.

See more from Tobermore with Skill Builder.

Britain’s Home Moving Hotspots Revealed

Dylan Garton
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Britain’s Home Moving Hotspots Revealed

Where have we moved home the most? – Britain’s home moving hotspots revealed

Nearly 800,000 home moves have taken place in the last year, meaning 2.6% of Britain’s entire property market chose to up sticks and moved home despite numerous periods of lockdown restrictions and the wider ongoing problems caused by the pandemic.

The latest market insight by national estate agent, Keller Williams UK, analysed the number of homes sold across England, Wales and Scotland over the last 12 months and what this equates to as a percentage of total residential housing stock, to highlight where Britain’s home moving hotspots.

Note: Home movers refers to the whole house rather than several individuals moving home who might live within the same property.

Scotland Moves the Most

The research shows that Scotland moves the most, with 81,751 transactions in the last 12 months equating to 3.1% of all homes in the country.

It is no surprise that Scotland accounts for seven of the top 15 home moving hotspots at a local authority (LA) level, with East Lothian seeing 4.1% of all homes hit the market in the last 12 months. Midlothian (3.9%), East Renfrewshire (3.7%), South Lanarkshire (3.7%) and Renfrewshire (3.5%) also rank as some of Britain’s most prominent home mover hotspots.

England Home Moving Hotspots

2.6% of all households made a move across England over the last 12 months, with the South West (2.9%), the South East (2.8%) and East Midlands (2.8%) ranking top.

However, it’s Harborough in Leicestershire that tops the table at LA level, with 1,477 transactions completed in the last year resulting in 3.7% of the total property market moving in the area.

South Derbyshire (3.6%), North West Leicestershire (3.5%), Central Bedfordshire (3.4%) and Bracknell Forest (3.4%) also moved the most of all areas in England.

Who is Wandering in Wales?

2.3% of the total Welsh property market decided to move last year, with Vale of Glamorgan seeing this figure increase to 3%, the highest in Wales. Bridgend also saw a large number of home movers with 2.8% of all homes in the area selling, along with Conwy (2.6%), Denbighshire, Newport and Flintshire (2.5%).

London the Lowest

At just 1.9%, the capital saw the smallest number of home movers in relation to market size, although this did climb to 2.9% in Bromley, making it the capital’s home moving hotspot.

Havering (2.8%), Bexley (2.7%), Richmond (2.6%) and Kingston (2.5%) also ranked high.

CEO of Keller Williams UK, Ben Taylor, commented:

“Although 2.6% of households choosing to move doesn’t sound high, it’s important to remember this is in relation to 28.5m total homes across Britain and against a backdrop of pandemic uncertainty and lockdown restrictions.

In this context, nearly 800,000 successful home moves is pretty impressive, and the fact we’ve managed it while also juggling the strange new normal of lockdown life is pretty commendable.

Of course, the dangling carrot of a stamp duty saving would have helped boost these figures. With a potential deadline extension on the way, we should see the number of us selling up and moving on remain high.”

The Data Explained

Data in the below tables is based on transaction data from Gov.uk over the last 12 months from the latest available point of October 2020. Source: Gov.uk UK House Price Index – Sales.

Demand for Rural Homes due to Covid
New Demand for Rural Homes

Estimated dwelling stock levels sourced from: –

England: Gov.uk, Live Tables on Dwellings Stock

Scotland: Gov.scot, Housing Statistics

Wales: Gov.wales, Dwelling Stock Estimates

Transactions as a percentage of dwellings stock is based on transactions divided by total dwellings.

 

Table shows the number of sales in the last 12 months by each area and what percentage of total housing stock this equates to
Location Estimated dwelling stock Transactions Transactions as a % of dwellings stock
England 24,413,501 634,815 2.6%
Scotland 2,605,000 81,751 3.1%
South West 2,579,210 74,528 2.9%
South East 3,943,537 111,553 2.8%
East Midlands 2,103,080 58,862 2.8%
East of England 2,705,425 74,896 2.8%
Yorkshire and The Humber 2,440,528 65,221 2.7%
North West 3,300,088 87,283 2.6%
North East 1,236,808 31,269 2.5%
West Midlands Region 2,512,503 62,837 2.5%
Wales 1,437,567 33,701 2.3%
London 3,592,322 68,366 1.9%
Great Britain 28,456,067 750,267 2.6%
       
       
Table shows the biggest home moving hotspots in Britain at local authority level
Location Estimated dwelling stock Transactions Transactions as a % of dwellings stock
East Lothian 48,000 1,954 4.07%
Midlothian 40,000 1,555 3.89%
Harborough 39,891 1,477 3.70%
East Renfrewshire 39,000 1,433 3.67%
South Lanarkshire 151,000 5,528 3.66%
South Derbyshire 45,363 1,619 3.57%
Renfrewshire 87,000 3,072 3.53%
West Lothian 79,000 2,742 3.47%
North West Leicestershire 45,513 1,579 3.47%
Perth and Kinross 72,000 2,481 3.45%
Central Bedfordshire 121,347 4,154 3.42%
Bracknell Forest 50,231 1,717 3.42%
Rugby 47,113 1,608 3.41%
South Norfolk 61,926 2,100 3.39%
South Northamptonshire 40,033 1,357 3.39%

Solar Energy Trends in 2021

Dylan Garton
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0
Solar Energy Trends in 2021

There are many advantages to using solar power. Harvested from the sun’s rays, solar energy helps both consumers and businesses. This form of renewable energy can reduce your energy costs, lower your dependency on fossil fuels, and much more.

It’s easy to see that going solar presents many benefits. With all of that said, how is the solar market doing in 2021? Here’s a closer look at how trends impact the future of the solar energy industry.

Solar Energy Trends in 2021

Growth of Solar Firms

You can see how fast the solar industry is growing by looking at the many companies in this field. This growth came through the Department of Energy awarding special funding to solar companies. The first company to receive this funding was First Solar, a fast-growing solar manufacturer that acquired a loan for $1.9 billion.

First Solar is far from the only company succeeding in this fast-growing field. Many other large solar manufacturers continue to bring solar power to the world.

The Top US Solar Firms

It’s now time to learn about some of the largest companies leading the solar energy industry. The leader in this industry remains First Solar. With a market cap of $7.4 billion and revenue of $3.1 billion, First Solar has a bright future in the solar industry.

The second-largest solar firm in the United States is SunPower Corp. Based out of San Jose, California, SunPower Corp designs and manufactures solar systems. This company posted revenue of $1.9 billion in 2020.

NextEra Energy is another renewable energy company that’s making lots of waves. While not strictly a solar company (they also provide wind energy), NextEra Energy recently toppled ExxonMobile as America’s most valuable energy provider. It’s unknown if NextEra Energy will hold on to this top spot, but it’s encouraging news to renewable energy supporters.

Another company that deserves mentioning is a business that’s arguably more well-known: Tesla. While many people connect Tesla with Elon Musk and electric cars, this company also installs residential solar panels.

Solar Industry Growth Expectations – 2021

It’s understandable to wonder if or by how much the solar industry will grow in 2021. Fortunately, things look good for this industry in the near future. In 2020, both China and the United States broke records for solar installations. During the first half of 2020, Europe generated 40% of its power from renewable energy.

As the adoption of solar energy continues growing, 2021 looks to be a great year for renewable energy. The Solar Energy Industries Association reports that solar capacity will double and surpass 100GW in 2021.

Top Solar Industry Stats

You can also learn a lot about the solar industry by looking at a few solar energy statistics. Here are a few of the most interesting statistics showcasing the popularity of solar energy.

  • Solar energy accounts for 1.6% of all electricity generated in the United States.
  • America’s solar energy industry provides jobs to over 242,000 people.
  • When polled, 89% of people in the United States supported more solar farms.
  • Community solar looks to grow 20-30 times by the year 2030.
  • Currently, 12 states in America are working to make solar energy easily available for low-income families.

Solar Energy Trends – 2021

So far, you’ve learned many interesting statistics about the solar industry. With that in mind, you’ll now learn more about the biggest solar energy trends to watch out for in 2021.

One of the most popular trends in 2021 is solar roof tiles. These items function the same way as solar panels. But they’re much smaller, essentially the size of a shingle. Solar shingles are attractive options for homeowners or property managers that want solar energy without traditionally bulky solar panels.

You likely remember the automobile industry changing with the invention and popularity of electric vehicles. These vehicles operate partially or fully on electricity, reducing the need for fuel from gasoline. With that in mind, it appears that solar energy will soon be powering lots of automobiles. Research shows that the solar vehicle industry will be worth $329 million by 2023

In recent years, the world has experienced dangerous weather. Two notable examples of this took place in the United States. There were the 2019 wildfires that took over large parts of California. Recently, the southern state of Texas experienced week-long power outages from harsh winter weather.

To solve weather-related power outages, companies are utilizing stored solar energy to provide power during times when electrical grids go out. Solar storage works by having large modules collect energy. This energy is then collected and distributed in the event of a power outage.

As you can see, there’s a lot to get excited about regarding the future of solar energy. If you’d like to experience everything this type of renewable energy has to offer, consider going solar.

See more on solar with Skill Builder.

Straight String Line Trick ~ 2-Minute Tip

Dylan Garton
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0
Straight String Line Trick ~ 2-Minute Tip

Before he pitches the roof on our new extension series, James shows us a quick 2-minute tip for getting a super straight string line.

Snickers Workwear High-Performance Jackets

Dylan Garton
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0
Snickers Workwear High-Performance Jackets

Workwear – Protectivewear  – Performancewear – Leisurewear.

With street-smart designs for men and women, all Snickers Workwear high-performance jackets include must-have features that focus on fit and freedom of movement as well as using innovative fabrics that deliver long-lasting protection and stretch comfort.

Whatever you need – if it’s for work, play or protection against hazards – Snickers Workwear has Jackets that will work on-site, are ideal for leisure, always ensuring optimal performance, comfort, good looks and visibility.

ALLROUNDWork Jackets are just what the name suggests, delivering a great all-round performance.

There’s also FLEXIWork Jackets that provide superb comfort and weather-proofing if you’re always on the move and LITEWork Jackets that keep you feeling cool and looking good whatever you’re doing in warm weather.

So check out the performance, comfort and protection features of Snickers Workwear Jackets, there will be one to suit you – wherever you are, whatever you need, whatever you’re doing.

See more with Snickers from Skill Builder.

Rain & Snow Delay Brickies ~ How To Build An Extension #6

Dylan Garton
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0
Rain & Snow Delay Brickies ~ How To Build An Extension #6

Rain and snow delays force James onto the blockwork in part 6 of our 2 storey extension series.

How To Build An Extension series playlist: https://bit.ly/2LnUhG5

Keystone Windposts
https://keystonelintels.com/products/windposts

Our thanks go to James and Ian of The Supreme Finishing Company.

◾ https://thesupremefinishingcompany.co.uk
◾ https://www.facebook.com/thesupremefinishingcompany

How to Lay Underfloor Heating in a Screed

Dylan Garton
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0
How to Lay Underfloor Heating in a Screed

Roger shows us how he installs radiant underfloor heating in a screed.

This is the Worcester Bosch Greenfloor system but the ideas can be applied to other systems.

Check out the Underfloor Heating Store.
https://www.theunderfloorheatingstore.com

They supply electric and water underfloor heating systems as well as thermostats, controls, insulation board, adhesives and revellers.

See more on underfloor heating with Skill Builder.

Home Improvement Trade Body Warns Government Not to Ignore Tradespeople

Dylan Garton
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Home Improvement Trade Body Warns Government Not to Ignore Tradespeople

An institute representing thousands of tradespeople and independent retailers has called on the Government to support the home improvement industry to play a full part in the economic recovery that will be needed now that the route out of lockdown is clear.

Commenting on the day that the Prime Minister announces how the UK will emerge from lockdown over the coming months, the British Institute of Kitchen, Bedroom & Bathroom Installation (BiKBBI) has called for immediate action to help independent retailers open their doors and installers get to work, as well as longer-term interventions that stimulate consumer demand, open up supply chains and support skills development.

Damian Walters, Chief Executive of BiKBBI, said: “Tradespeople and independent businesses in the home improvement industry cannot afford to be ignored by the Government as we finally begin to open up the country.

“Our industry has felt the economic impact of the pandemic more than most. Installers in England and Wales invested time and money into Safe Operating Procedures that allowed them to continue serving customers through the most recent lockdown, but our members north of the border were forced to down tools as the Scottish Government took a much more restrictive approach.

As a result, far too many tradespeople have struggled to make ends meet due the additional expenditure needed to work safely or the loss of income from being unable to work at all.

“Meanwhile, the industry’s independent retailers were forced to close their doors while larger competitors carried on trading thanks to loopholes that allowed them to classify as trade suppliers. The loss of business could force many shops to close for good, doing further damage to high streets that are already struggling.

“Our industry is one of the cornerstones of the UK economy, providing products and services in demand across every part of the country and offering a route to skilled work for people from all walks of life.

It’s vital that every effort is made to help it quickly recover from the hit it has taken over the past year. This means immediately declassifying independent Kitchen, Bedroom and Bathroom retailers from being ‘non-essential’ so that they can compete on a level playing field with large trade suppliers.

It also means working with the Scottish Government to ensure that installers in Scotland can get back to work as quickly as possible.

“Beyond that, it must include efforts to stimulate the market through tax incentives that encourage people to invest in their homes; moves to quickly unlock supply chains that have slowed over recent months; and continued support for the education and training initiatives needed to maintain a skilled workforce.

“The Prime Minister has offered a glimmer of hope to tradespeople and independent retailers who have had to contend with such huge challenges over the past year, but more will be needed to help them play a part as the national recovery gets underway.”

£171.7bn Worth of Property Was Sold in 2020

Dylan Garton
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£171.7bn Worth of Property Was Sold in 2020

Research by national estate agent, Keller Williams UK, has revealed that despite Covid causing a -38% year on year decrease due to lockdown restrictions, the property market in England and Wales still rallied to see a total of £171.7bn worth of residential property sold in 2020.

Keller Williams analysed all residential property sales to complete via the Land Registry between January and December of last year, to see just what impact the current stamp duty holiday has had on the market.

The research shows that in 2020, a total sum of £171.7bn worth of residential property was sold across England and Wales. An extremely respectable performance given the tricky landscape posed by the pandemic, although this is a marked decline on the £2.8bn sold in 2019.

Highest sum of property sold

When it comes to the most valuable pockets of the property market, London takes the silver gold and bronze.

Westminster saw the highest sum of property sold prices, with £2.9bn worth of residential bricks and mortar sold in 2020. Kensington and Chelsea came second with £2.7bn worth of property sold, while Wandsworth was the third most valuable home selling hotspot with a total of £2.5bn worth of property selling last year.

However, London far from dominates the top 20 most valuable areas of the property market in England and Wales.

With a total of almost £2bn in property sold over the last year, Cornwall is the most valuable market outside of the capital. Birmingham also ranked high with £1.8bn in property sales throughout 2020.

Leeds (£1.75bn) Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (£1.7bn), Wiltshire (£1.5bn), Bristol (£1.45bn), Dorset (£1.45bn) and Cheshire East (£1.4bn) also ranked as some of the most valuable areas of the property market outside of London.

CEO of Keller Williams UK, Ben Taylor, commented:

“Despite the radical market turn around spurred by the reopening of the property sector and the introduction of a stamp duty holiday, Covid has clearly had a lasting impact on the market in 2020.

While the average house price has surged this year, a -38% reduction in the total value of property sold demonstrates the detrimental impact the pandemic had on market activity over the last year.

This is even more significant when you consider that it’s compared with a 2019 market that was already operating sluggishly due to Brexit uncertainty.

However, when considering all of these factors, it makes the late rally shown by the property market in the wake of a stamp duty holiday introduction all the more impressive. To think that this market revival still saw £171.7bn worth of residential property sold in what is a relatively short period of time is actually quite remarkable.”

 

England and Wales 2019 2020 Change
Total sum of property sold £277,490,140,743 £171,670,833,785 -38%
Data sourced from the Land Registry Sold Price Records (Jan 2020 to Dec 2020)
       
Table shows the top 20 areas to have seen the largest sold price sum of property sold  
District Median sold price Total sum of property sold  
CITY OF WESTMINSTER £950,000 £2,943,088,454  
KENSINGTON AND CHELSEA £1,270,000 £2,686,441,764  
WANDSWORTH £655,000 £2,514,098,748  
CORNWALL £240,000 £1,984,888,965  
CAMDEN £780,000 £1,856,469,571  
BIRMINGHAM £180,000 £1,770,788,359  
LEEDS £185,000 £1,754,133,158  
BROMLEY £460,000 £1,747,027,590  
BOURNEMOUTH, CHRISTCHURCH AND POOLE £290,000 £1,719,482,316  
BARNET £540,000 £1,699,882,208  
LAMBETH £550,000 £1,691,080,834  
RICHMOND UPON THAMES £676,000 £1,609,154,142  
HAMMERSMITH AND FULHAM £765,000 £1,544,470,757  
WILTSHIRE £270,000 £1,534,911,451  
CITY OF BRISTOL £285,000 £1,454,265,744  
DORSET £299,000 £1,451,908,502  
CHESHIRE EAST £220,000 £1,406,148,108  
CROYDON £390,000 £1,310,803,894  
ELMBRIDGE £600,000 £1,278,730,756  
SOUTHWARK £532,000 £1,194,475,137  
Data sourced from the Land Registry Sold Price Records (Jan 2020 to Dec 2020)  

Makita Expands Its XGT 40v Range of High Performance Cordless Tools

Dylan Garton
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0
Makita Expands Its XGT 40v Range of High Performance Cordless Tools

Makita has expanded its high-performance 40Vmax XGT range with the addition of three new tools. The new Rotary Demolition Hammer, 216mm Slide Compound Mitre Saw and 230mm Angle Grinder all feature Makita’s highly efficient brushless motor technology and have been engineered to bring the benefits of cordless technology to high-demand applications.

The powerful HR005GZ01 40VMax Brushless Rotary Demolition Hammer offers rotary hammer and hammer only operating modes and is compatible with SDS-MAX chisels, drill bits up to 40mm and core bits up to 105mm.

Makita LS002G 40v

It features a variable speed trigger and delivers speeds of up to 500 revolutions per minute (rpm) and up to 2,900 blows per minute (bpm) of hammer action.

The HR005GZ01 also includes features to make it easier and safer to use. This includes Active Feedback sensing Technology (AFT), which protects the user by shutting down the tool if the rotation speed reduces suddenly.

It also features the soft no load function and Anti-Vibration Technology (AVT) to reduce the levels of tool vibration and therefore extended safe trigger times. The result of this is that the new Rotary Demolition Hammer has a vibration level of just 5.0m/s² when hammer drilling.

Makita HR005G

The versatile LS002GZ01 40VMax Brushless 216mm Slide Compound Mitre Saw has an easy to set mitre range of 60° to both the left and right as well as a 48° bevel range in each direction, making it simple to achieve the cut required.  It also includes Makita’s Deep and Exact Cutting Technology (DXT) that allows the accurate cutting of large workpieces.

The LS002GZ01 offers improved dust collection when fitted to an extractor, soft start and constant speed control functions as well as an electric brake to stop the blade in seconds every time for greater safety.

The final new addition is the GA038GZ07 40VMax Brushless 230mm Angle Grinder. The 230mm wheel diameter makes this the largest angle grinder in the XGT range and is ideal for the highest demand applications.

The GA038GZ07 is also easy and comfortable to use with an ergonomic soft grip on the tool body and a side handle that can be mounted on the left or right based on the user preference. The wheel cover position can be effortlessly adjusted without the need for tools, making work easier and faster.

Makita LS002G

To maximise user safety and comfort, the new grinder has been engineered for low levels of vibration so it can be used safely for longer. It also benefits from the AFT system, includes an electric brake to stop the wheel quickly when the motor is switched off and an anti-restart function that prevents accidental start-up.

All three of the new additions to the XGT range also include Makita’s brushless motors and Auto-Start Wireless System (AWS) functionality when fitted with an optional AWS chip.

The efficient brushless motor minimises friction and wasted energy within the machine for better performance and extended run-times. The innovative AWS function allows the tool to connect to compatible dust extractors via Bluetooth.

The wireless connection means the dust extractor can run automatically while the tool is in use, meaning simple dust management for a cleaner and healthier environment.

Kevin Brannigan, Marketing Manager at Makita UK said: “Our XGT range of 40VMax tools offers all the benefits of cordless power, such as greater flexibility and improved safety, for the highest demand tasks in the toughest environments.

The launch of these tools is the latest in a series of new XGT products introduced in recent months as we continue to invest in product development to give customers greater choice.”

The HR005GZ01 Rotary Demolition Hammer, LS002GZ01 216mm Slide Compound Mitre Saw and GA038GZ07 230mm Angle Grinder are all currently available to purchase as body-only, with options that include batteries and chargers to be launched soon.

To find out more about Makita’s range of high-performance XGT tools visit: www.makitauk.com.

See more from Makita with Skill Builder.

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