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DeWalt DCD470 Right Angle Diamond Core Drill

Videos

Dylan Garton

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7th October 2020

DeWalt DCD470 Right Angle Diamond Core Drill

Dewalt DCD470N 54V XR Flexvolt Brushless Right Angle Diamond Core Drill.
🛒 DEWALT DCD470N: screwfix.com/p/dewalt-dcd470n-xj-54v-li-ion-xr-flexvolt-brushless-cordless-right-angle-diamond-core-drill-bare/980hp

MORE INFO FROM DEWALT

Power of corded freedom of cordless for versatility Designed to handle a wide range of large drilling applications 2 variable speed ranges from 0-400/ 0-1320 rpm

• The DEWALT DCD470 XR FlexVolt Right Angle/Diamond Core Drill delivers high-speed drilling performance, making it ideal for drilling within a concrete block, brickwork or wood.

• Metal gear case housing to reduce weight while maintaining job site durability

• 54v Brushless Motor for increased power, run time and reliability

• The adjustable bail handle and 2-position side handle provide safety, leverage and control.

• Quick-shift speed selector allows the user to easily change speeds without having to feather the trigger

• LED light to indicate E-Clutch status

• 2 position side handle

• 1/2 Inch keyed chuck

• Low head profile for better access in tight spaces offers user versatility

• Power Output: 2600UWO Max.

• Torque: 269Nm

• Chuck Capacity: 13mm

• Load Speed: 0-400/0-1320rpm Max.

Drilling:
Aerated Concrete: 152mm Max.
Brick: 127mm Max.
Wood with Holesaw: 158mm

• The brushless motor offers incredible efficiency and increased power delivery, resulting in less wear and increased longevity of the tool.

• The two variable speed function allows you to match the appropriate speed and torque depending on the application.

• The Perform and Protect E-Clutch detects reactionary torque caused by a bind-up or stall and reduces speed to a manageable level until control is regained, providing optimum control and safety.

How Did Your Toilet Flush Become a Disaster?

Videos

Dylan Garton

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5th October 2020

0

How Did Your Toilet Flush Become a Disaster?

How did we go from having a good flushing cistern for your WC to a water-wasting cistern that many people do not understand?

Don’t blame Thomas Crapper, or the actual inventor of the flush toilet Sir John Harington of Kelston, because they aren’t guilty.

Their inventions achieved the exact opposite of what we have now.

Roger wants to help everybody understand their house better and eliminate those things that have been bugging you.

Do you have something you want us to cover? Get in touch: https://skill-builder.uk/send

Trade Paint vs Retail – Are You Being Ripped Off?

Videos

Dylan Garton

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3rd October 2020

0

Trade Paint vs Retail – Are You Being Ripped Off?

James is unhappy with the huge price difference between Dulux trade paint and their retail version of Dulux Weathershield All Weather Protection Smooth Masonry Paint from B&Q.

Trade Paint vs Retail difference

Dulux pointed James to an article on their website which explains the difference between the paints and explains trade paint vs retail.

Dulux say “There are many important differences between Professional and Retail paints. Professional paints need to last longer and be more versatile, whilst meeting the high demands of all professional users and their customers.”

The main differences are professional paints cover better even after thinning and avoid extra coats. Professional paints also have a higher spreading rate than retail.

They also claim that professional paints are consistently tested to make sure that they reach the high standards of professional users and their customers.

Read the complete article here: duluxdecoratorcentre.co.uk/advice/trade_retail_paint

Dulux Trade Paint vs Retail — Dulux Trade Paint Special Value Pack.

A 10L tin of Dulux Weathershield All Weather Smooth Matt Masonry paint is 3 times more expensive from a Dulux Decorator Centre store than it is at B&Q.

Price comparison including VAT:

B&Q – £35
Homebase – £35
Brewers – £90
Dulux Decorator Centre – £108

Widely anticipated V-Gard H1 Safety Helmet from MSA Safety available in Europe

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2nd October 2020

0

Widely anticipated V-Gard H1 Safety Helmet from MSA Safety available in Europe

MSA Safety, industry-leading designer, manufacturer and distributor of safety products the world over, has launched its V-Gard® H1 Safety Helmet.

Best Seller

Having sold well over 100 million helmets since its introduction, the V-Gard® range is a brand recognised and revered the world over. Available now in three stylish and low-profile models – called the Novent, the Trivent and the Bivent which include MSA’s market-leading Fas-Trac® III Pivot Ratchet Suspension.

The all-new V-Gard H1 helmets are designed for multiple industries and applications, including construction, utilities, working at heights, rescue, and confined spaces.

Additional features include venting options, and a non-contact foam and premium sweatband to provide optimal airflow to keep workers cool and comfortable.

Inspired, tested, and refined in the most challenging, and rigorous conditions, the V-Gard H1 Safety Helmet provides the quality and style workers have come to expect and trust from the V-Gard brand.

Comfort and ease of use

Mackenzie Peters, Global Product Group Manager, Industrial Head Protection, MSA Safety, comments: “We believe that the V-Gard H1 really does represent the next generation of head protection. It was designed with those using the helmet day in day out firmly in mind.

“We realise that workers wearing their safety helmets for upwards of seven or eight hours a day require exceptional comfort and ease of use. Both of which not only help to generally improve the mood and wellbeing of those wearing them but ultimately contribute to greater compliance.

Safety helmets count for little if workers frequently take them off because they’re so uncomfortable, or don’t work properly with essential additional accessories.

“Working at height can carry many potential risks, and the safety helmets those operatives wear are integral to their safety. We’ve designed a safety helmet that frees workers up to concentrate fully on the job at hand, unhindered, with a clear mind.”

H1 Safety Helmet pivot

The V-Gard H1 helmet’s Fas-Trac III Pivot Suspension provides users with a full range of motion and allows the helmet to move with workers while remaining secure and in place, while its four-point chinstrap with multipoint adjustment allows users to achieve a custom, secure fit.

Venting options, non-contact foam and sweatband provides airflow and helps to keep users cool and comfortable.

Its patent-pending integrated rail system enables the integration of multiple proprietary accessories (PC clear visor, mesh visor & PC spectacles) which can be simply installed and removed with the push of a button. No need for an external carrier anymore!

The frameless design of the V-Gard H1 eliminates the need for extra parts. The dual-pivot design enables the visor to keep a low profile when lifted into the park position, providing for stability, balance and wind resistance.

Safety and style

“Let’s face it, we’re all human. We all like to look good – inside and outside of work,” says Ms. Peters. “Of course, style should never come at the expense of safety – that’s a given – but it’s important for workers to look as stylish and professional as possible.

It represents an investment, by safety managers, in their workforce and can boost morale. The V-Gard H1’s low profile, matte finish, stylish reflective stickers, the wide range of colours available, and its ability to be customised via MSA LOGO EXPRESS® high-quality customisation service helps to achieve just that.”

Two of the V-Gard H1 Safety Helmet – the Novent, unvented version and the Bivent, vented version, comply with EN 397, which specifies physical and performance requirements, and methods of test and marking requirements for industrial safety helmets.

It also covers low-temperature use down to -30°C. In addition, the Novent is approved to the EN 50365 1000V A.C. and can be used for work at height with electric insulation. And the Trivent, vented helmet, meets the standard EN 12492 for mountaineering equipment.

“Safety is, above all else, paramount,” concludes Ms. Peters. “But we at MSA believe that a safety helmet is much more than its hard-outer shell.

It’s the associated benefits that come with it – greater comfort, intuitive design, and ease of use – that collectively add up to increased compliance.”

More on hard hats and safety with Skill Builder.

Find out more about the all-new V-Gard H1 Safety Helmet..

A New Mini Excavator for the Next Generation

New Products

Dylan Garton

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2nd October 2020

0

A New Mini Excavator for the Next Generation

Why the next generation mini excavators are the best and technologically most advanced small machines yet.

Caterpillar Reputation

Caterpillar® is famous for its big machines. The company built its reputation manufacturing massive earthmoving equipment and only entered the market of smaller excavators just over two decades ago in 1998. Since then, the Cat® mini excavators have become known as small machines with big capabilities.

Here, Mark Mulligan, building and product manager at Finning UK & Ireland, the exclusive distributor for Caterpillar equipment, explains why the new Cat next-generation mini excavator range stays true to the Caterpillar DNA with exceptional build quality and is suitable for the most challenging environments.

Just like all Caterpillar’s machines, the minis must perform in a range of challenging environments and are built to withstand extreme heat, cold, dust and smell. And because they are the smallest machines in the Caterpillar lineup, the mini excavators are also built for precision work.

A new generation of mini excavator

The Caterpillar next-generation mini excavators were developed over a period of five years with input from customers all over the world and tested rigorously in the harshest settings. An all-steel design gives the next-gen mini the required toughness.

Their ruggedness translates into at least 15 per cent lower operating costs because parts last longer and they are replaced more easily due to a modular design.

Service intervals have also been extended, which reduces downtime. For instance, hydraulic filters are changed after 500 operating hours, hydraulic oil when the machine reaches 3000, and coolant after 6000 hours at work. When any of these parts need to be replaced, the cab has been specifically designed to simply tilt up for speedy operator access.

Caterpillar has ensured that operating one of its next-gen mini excavators is a comfortable experience. It’s the only mini excavator on the market with air conditioning in a pressurised and sealed cabin, so working in a hot, dusty or smelly environment is no longer a problem.

A further innovation is that at the push of a button, the operator can switch from the pedals to a joystick and even travel across the site using cruise control. Experienced operators will no doubt be keen to try out this new feature, putting an end to being hunched over while moving the machine from one part of a site to another.

Gen Z technology

The Cat next-gen mini excavator range has been designed with the next generation of technology in mind. Especially Generation Z — people born in the 1990s who grew up with computers and video games — are now entering the workforce and expect machines to be interactive, intuitive and interconnected. This is why they were fitted with Bluetooth making it easier to stay connected whilst on site.

The health of the entire machine can also be monitored remotely because it’s fitted with telematics, including remote software updates and geo-blocking in case someone tries to steal one.

Mini excavators are the most stolen type of plant equipment due to their relatively compact size and ease of concealment — with a total of 650 mini excavators reported as stolen nationwide in 2018.

The addition of the built-in technology and tools means it will take less time and be less intensive to train operators to use the mini excavator effectively. Seasoned operators will find ways to use the new customisation features to fine-tune their machines.

For instance, the next-gen minis recognise their attachment and at the touch of a button, the power and controllability can be changed to suit the job and the settings on the hydraulics can be adjusted so precisely that the excavator can be used to crack an egg.

The layout of the next-gen mini is consistent with other Caterpillar models, so operators can switch easily between machines. The newly developed stick and steer joystick is an industry first.

At the push of a button, an operator can switch from the traditional pedal steering to controlling the movements of the machine with the joystick. Doing so gives the operator more flexibility, it’s easier to work more precisely and ultimately a lot more comfortable. The paddles and levers can even be removed entirely.

Generator Hire Companies Need to Be Adaptable Due to COVID-19 Pandemic

Dylan Garton

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2nd October 2020

0

Generator Hire Companies Need to Be Adaptable Due to COVID-19 Pandemic

Generator hire companies need to be adaptable to the changing environment and the extremely tough trading conditions expected in the short to medium term, according to the latest Generator Hire Market Report from AMA Research.

Companies with inefficient operations are likely to suffer as market conditions are expected to be challenging. However, those with a focus on operational efficiencies and delivering improved margins are likely to fare better.

Generator hire is a competitive market, but benefits from the wide range of end-use applications and subsequently the performance of the UK economy has a direct impact on the level of generator hire demand. In the construction sector new orders collapsed to an historic all-time low in the wake of the Covid-19 lockdown, with new orders in Great Britain decreasing by 51% in April-June 2020. The UK economy was sent into recession due to the Covid-19 impact, but construction output grew by 24% in June which may indicate the possibility of a much-needed V-shape recovery.

Generator Hire Companies Challenge

Both construction and non-construction activity stimulate generator hire demand, with factors impacting on market development including construction and industrial performances, emergencies (such as flooding) and major events as well as ‘critical’ applications requiring back-up support.

Construction is a key market and tends to be cyclical and exposed to economic downturns. Consequently, many hire companies also work in sectors that are less cyclical such as facilities management, retail operations, commercial fit-out, property and utilities. The pandemic impact is likely to see hirers move into sectors with the most opportunities and intensify market competition. Those with the best offering and operations will survive the challenge, but it is likely that others will not.

Brexit Trade Deal

Aside from the Covid-19 pandemic issue, the uncertainties regarding the Brexit trade deal also impact on market development. Furthermore, the UK saw its largest ever decline in GDP growth in Q2 with 20% fall. Levels of confidence and investment remain a key risk factor adding to the complexity of assessing future market prospects.

Whilst Covid-19 and the Brexit negotiations have introduced uncertainty into the UK economy and end-use sectors of generator hire, the diversity of applications and range of positive underlying drivers, provides some expectation for continued demand, albeit at lower levels than previously achieved. The ‘generator only’ hire market is expected to recover and grow to 2024 as demand for temporary power is expected to rise, supported by increasing levels of construction as well as other non-construction activities.

Call to Action

The information was taken from the Generator Hire Market Report – UK 2020-2024 by AMA Research, which is available to purchase now at www.amaresearch.co.uk or by calling 01242 235724.

Panasonic EY7412 miniQu Electric Screwdriver

Dylan Garton

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1st October 2020

0

Roger likes the torque features of this new Panasonic EY7412 miniQu Electric Screwdriver.

Panasonic EY7412 USB charging in 25 minutes.

When the power buttons are not pressed the driving shaft is locked so it becomes a normal screwdriver allowing you to fine-tune your tightening.

Panasonic EY7412 miniQu Cordless Screwdriver

Run-down driving
Finish tightening
Convenient single-handed operation in any direction
USB charging
Built-in Li-ion battery
Charging indicator
Forward / Reverse
LED light
One-touch bit lock

More Panasonic products on Skill Builder.

Buy the Panasonic screwdriver.

What Are Cavity Trays & Where Are They Used?

Dylan Garton

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29th September 2020

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What Are Cavity Trays & Where Are They Used?

What are cavity trays, do you need to use them and if so, where are they used?

Picture credit: https://www.cavitytrays.com

Lead flashing used on join to the extension.

Roger wants to help everybody understand their house better and take care of all of those little jobs that have been bugging you.

Do you have something in your house that you want to get your head around?

Get in touch: https://skill-builder.uk/send

New Metabo Cordless Vacuum Cleaner

New Products

Dylan Garton

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28th September 2020

0

Just as powerful as a mains-powered vacuum cleaner: New ASR 36-18 BL 25 M SC Metabo cordless vacuum cleaner

High degree of health protection in dust class M
Powerful like a mains-powered vacuum cleaner
“CordlessControl” system for automatic vacuum cleaner operation – can be used across manufacturers

A clean working environment is indispensable for health protection, a powerful vacuum cleaner for professionals in the wood or building trade is therefore essential.

With the new cordless vacuum cleaner from Metabo, tradesmen now have a vacuum cleaner that allows them to work without a cable to get in the way and still not have to compromise on suction power.

“Thanks to a powerful brushless motor, you will not notice any difference to standard mains-powered vacuum cleaners”, says Metabo product manager Sebastian Koch. The cordless vacuum cleaner ASR 36-18 BL 25 M SC is classified as dust class M and provides first-rate suction power.

It holds back 99.9% of the dust generated. “Professionals who are exposed for example to quartz dust are ideally protected with our vacuum cleaner.” The new machine can be operated with two 18-volt battery packs or one 36-volt battery pack.

A clean solution: inside and outside the machine

The new vacuum cleaner has three different levels with which the suction power can be regulated depending on the application. “For example, if the professional uses a cordless orbital sander that generates less dust, he can reduce the suction power accordingly and thus increase the battery pack runtime.

In this way, he can work longer and make full use of the battery pack`s energy”, explains Koch. A particularly large amount of fine dust is generated for example when sanding wood or plaster filler. The filter of the vacuum cleaner gets clogged with dust during longer applications. “We also have a solution for this: the semi-automatic filter cleaning.

The technology is already in use in mains-powered vacuum cleaners, now we have developed it further for cordless vacuum cleaners”, explains Sebastian. “The filter cleans itself automatically during breaks. Obviously, cleaning can also be started manually by operating a switch.”

Extraction with automatic start/stop

The new Metabo cordless vacuum cleaner also offers a special new feature: The “CordlessControl” system. It takes over the automatic start and stop of the vacuum cleaner.

Thanks to an intelligent transmitter-receiver system, the cordless tool is connected wirelessly with the vacuum cleaner. The receiver is installed directly in the vacuum cleaner, the receiver is attached to the suction hose. A vibration sensor installed in the transmitter detects when the machine is switched on or off.

If the vibration in the machine is not strong enough, the transmitter can be attached directly to the device using the multi tape included in the scope of delivery. “For example, if the user starts operating his cordless tool, the vacuum cleaner starts automatically in parallel. Thanks to this innovative solution, the user is very well protected from dust”, says Koch.

Metabo Cordless Vacuum Cleaner Cleaning

For manual cleaning, the user must only press the remote control button on the transmitter which is positioned directly in the front on the sleeve. This is particularly practical for classic floor cleaning applications. Very often, professionals switch the vacuum cleaner on and off by hand. We would like to make it as easy as possible for the user, across all applications.

Cross-manufacturer compatibility

The great advantage of the system: CordlessControl combines cordless tools of all manufacturers with the cordless vacuum cleaner and thus permits professional users high flexibility.

This makes the system an optimal addition to the cross-manufacturer battery pack system CAS (Cordless Alliance System). Within this alliance, more than 160 machines and devices from currently 17 manufacturers are compatible and can be combined at random with one battery pack.

Technical data at a glance

	ASR 36-18 BL 25 M SC
Max. air output at the blower	4.000 /min
Maximum vacuum	240 mbar
Container volume (gross)	25.0 l
Filter surface	8,600 cm²
Dust class	M
Battery pack voltage	36 V
Weight (without battery)	14.0 kg
Dimensions (LxWxH)	400 x 450 x 575 mm

With the new Metabo cordless vacuum cleaner, professionals can now work without a restrictive cable and yet do not have to compromise in terms of suction power compared to mains-powered industrial vacuum cleaners.

Manual cleaning is also no problem with the new Metabo cordless vacuum cleaner. The user only has to press the remote control button on the transmitter, which is positioned directly in the front on the sleeve.

The new cordless vacuum cleaner ASR 36-18 BL 25 M SC from Metabo scores with a high degree of health protection in dust class M and is particularly powerful thanks to the powerful Brushless motor.

About Metabo

Metabowerke GmbH in Nürtingen is a traditional manufacturer of power tools for professional users from the core target groups of metal trade and industry as well as building trade and renovation. Metabo stands for very powerful cordless tools and is the leading supplier in the battery pack sector with its LiHD technology.

In this way, Metabo has turned its vision of the cable-free construction site into reality. The LiHD technology is also the basis of the battery pack system CAS (Cordless Alliance System) that comprises machines and power tools of different industry-specific manufacturers.

Under the brand name Metabo, the full-range supplier provides machines and accessories for all standard applications, but also competence products and system solutions for special requirements.

Founded in 1924 in the Swabian town of Nürtingen, Metabo today is a medium-sized company which also produces also in Shanghai, China, in addition to its headquarters in Nürtingen.

25 subsidiary sales companies and more than 100 importers ensure international presence. More than 2,000 people work for Metabo worldwide, and in the financial year of 2019 (April 2019 to March 2020) they have generated a turnover of 505 million euros.

More about the company Metabo and its products can be found at: www.metabo.com

Dickies Celebrates Inspiration in the Trades

Workwear & PPE

Dylan Garton

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27th September 2020

0

Dickies Celebrates Inspiration in the Trades

Global workwear brand Dickies is calling on tradespeople to nominate someone whose work inspires them as part of a new campaign celebrating those who love what they do and take pride in their work.

The global campaign, United by Inspiration, United by Dickies, features footage of 10 of Dickies’ community of makers from around the world showing their skills, including British stonemason Rob Maxfield.

In light of global restrictions on social contact, the footage was shot by the makers themselves and aims to highlight how those who make a living with their hands can continue to inspire each other despite the distancing imposed by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Rob’s footage is juxtaposed with London-based barber Klipper Kem. Both are wearing the iconic Dickies Portland shirt – a ‘lumberjack’-style checked shirt, which is one of the brand’s enduring best-sellers.

As part of the campaign, Dickies is calling on tradespeople to nominate someone whose work inspires them by tagging them on social regardless of whether they work in the same trade. Improve your chances further by telling us why – in words, photos or to camera and using the hashtag #unitedbyinspiration.

Both nominators and nominees will be entered into a draw to win their own Portland shirt.

“While communities have been forced apart during the pandemic, tradespeople and the ‘makers’ of this world continue to work hard and inspire one another with their efforts,” said James Whitaker, Marketing Director.

“We’re keen to find out where people in all kinds of trades draw their inspiration. Perhaps it’s someone who’s trained them as an apprentice or who inspired them to follow their particular career path.

It could be someone who has given them the confidence to start their own business, or even someone whose work inspires them to take a more creative approach to their role.”

On Twitter: @DickiesEurope

Festool ISC 240 – Cutting Insulation Like a Dream

Dylan Garton

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27th September 2020

0

Festool ISC 240 – Cutting Insulation Like a Dream

Festool ISC 240 review with Robin Clevett – The revolution in insulating-material saws.

No matter whether freehand or guided with guide rail and stop system, whether working on roofing, scaffolding or flooring, with insulating material made of mineral fibres, natural fibres or PUR insulating boards. The Festool ISC 240 is the optimal solution for anyone wishing to insulate housing with minimum effort.

• Perfectly coordinated cutting sets for precise and fast cutting of flexible mineral and natural fibre insulating materials as well as PUR insulating materials.

• Mobile, fast and saves effort without a cable: With a powerful 18 V Li-ion battery and brushless EC-TEC motor. Benefit from all the advantages of the Festool dust-free system thanks to Bluetooth® cordless technology.

• For cutting material efficiently: With the guide rail and angle stop (available in a set or as accessories), reproducible angled cuts can be made with precise dimensions.

• Work without tiring thanks to the perfectly balanced design and low weight – for maximum comfort when working, even in one-handed operation.

• Cut even the thickest insulating materials effortlessly: Thanks to the cutting set for cutting depths up to 350 mm.

• Replacement of the cutting sets without the need to use tools for efficient work adapted to the material.

Buying the Festool ISC 240

Festool ISC 240 Body Only

Festool Isc-240 Li EB-Basic Cordless Insulating Material Saw

Festool ISC 240 + Battery

Festool 575347 Cordless Diamond Cutting System DSC-Agc 18-125 FH Li 5, 2 EBI-Plus GB, Grey

Festool ISC 240 Full Kit

Festool 575593 Insulating-Material Saw ISC 240 Li 5,2 EBI-Set-FS GB

Festool Isc-240 Li EB-Basic Cordless Insulating Material Saw

Festool 575347 Cordless Diamond Cutting System DSC-Agc 18-125 FH Li 5, 2 EBI-Plus GB, Grey

Festool 575593 Insulating-Material Saw ISC 240 Li 5,2 EBI-Set-FS GB

Price not available

Buy on Amazon

Festool ISC 240 Body Only

Festool Isc-240 Li EB-Basic Cordless Insulating Material Saw

Price not available

Buy on Amazon

Festool ISC 240 + Battery

Festool 575347 Cordless Diamond Cutting System DSC-Agc 18-125 FH Li 5, 2 EBI-Plus GB, Grey

Price not available

Buy on Amazon

Festool ISC 240 Full Kit

Festool 575593 Insulating-Material Saw ISC 240 Li 5,2 EBI-Set-FS GB

Price not available

Buy on Amazon

Why is Your Towel Rail Hot When the Heating Is Off?

Videos

Dylan Garton

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25th September 2020

0

Why is Your Towel Rail Hot When the Heating Is Off?

Why is your bathroom towel rail hot when the heating is off?

Roger wants to help everybody understand their house better and take care of all of those little jobs that have been bugging you.

Do you have something in your house that you want to get your head around?
Get in touch: https://skill-builder.uk/send

Army of Experts Training to Deliver Green Homes Grant Scheme

Dylan Garton

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25th September 2020

0

Army of Experts Training to Deliver Green Homes Grant Scheme

A new army of experts will be trained up to deliver the government’s Green Homes Grant scheme to make 600,000 households in England energy efficient for the winter.

The Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy has launched a £6.9million grant, the Green Homes Grant Skills Competition, for training organisations to help get tradespeople equipped and professionally trained to deliver the initiative which launches on September 30.

The Green Homes Grant scheme allows homeowners and landlords to apply for vouchers to contribute to the cost of energy-saving home improvements – up to £5,000 for most homeowners, or £10,000 for low-income households.

With an expected increase in the amount of home energy retrofitting and low carbon heat installation because of the scheme, more skilled tradespeople will be needed.

The competition will be open to UK based training providers who can show previous relevant experience in delivering training in the field, with training programmes to be delivered in England.

Applications should provide training in some or all of the following:

Skills training in the installation of individual energy efficiency and/or low carbon heating measures supported by the voucher scheme – including training to individuals with existing skills, and training to those new to the sector.
Support and training for installation companies to gain required PAS 2030 or MCS certification, (including possible contribution to certification costs).
Training in wider whole house retrofit knowledge and awareness (covering wider issues such as building physics, moisture, ventilation, cold-bridging etc).

A maximum of £1m will be made available for each applicant or project subject to state aid restrictions.

It is hoped the funding could result in up to 5,000 training opportunities.

Simon Ayers, CEO of Trustmark, said about the skills competition: “This is an opportunity for training providers to take advantage of the scheme and play a key role in ensuring the tradespeople carrying out the works are supported and equipped as they prepare to rise to the challenge to develop their skills and services to the required standards.

“The Green Homes Grant Voucher Scheme is the kickstart the industry needs to help the UK reach the target of net zero by 2050 and through collaboration we can increase the number of skilled tradespeople and technicians, move past the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, and support the scheme that will allow property owners to pay for energy efficiency improvements, that will not only cut energy bills but will also create and support thousands of jobs whilst addressing the climate emergency the world is facing.”

For more information on the Green Homes Grant Skills Competition visit www.gov.uk/government/publications/green-homes-grant-skills-training-competition.

The skills competition is just one of a number of ways the government is supporting jobs and providing people with the tools they need to get better jobs.

In July the Chancellor announced his Plan for Jobs, including a new £2 billion Kickstart Scheme to create hundreds of thousands of new, fully subsidised jobs for young people across the country. Those aged 16-24, claiming Universal Credit and at risk of long-term unemployment, will be eligible.

For more information on the Kickstart Scheme, visit kickstart.campaign.gov.uk.

Green Homes Grant scheme: register as a certified tradesperson or business

Follow the link below and discover how to carry out work under the Green Homes Grant scheme if you are a tradesperson or business.

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/green-homes-grant-scheme-register-as-a-certified-tradesperson-or-business

Discover more on green homes on Skill Builder.

Dress For Windy Weather with Snickers Workwear’s GORE WINDSTOPPER Jackets

Snickers

Dylan Garton

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24th September 2020

0

Dress For Windy Weather with Snickers Workwear’s GORE WINDSTOPPER Jackets

Delivering great wind protection and efficient ventilation.

Snickers Workwear jackets are well known for delivering performance and comfort at work – integral features of this new range of Windproof Jackets.

Sharp, stylish looks and market-leading GORE® WINDSTOPPER® and stretch CORDURA® fabric technology to make this jacket a must for winter on-site or outdoor leisurewear.

This great-looking jacket has a fleece-lined interior for warmth and climate control fabric to keep your body warm or comfortably cool when you most need it.

With a water-repellent fabric, it can be worn on its own or combined with Snickers’ Mid and Base Layer garments.

Fashionable and functional, this jacket has long arm cuffs with thumb grips for warm comfort and a high collar that delvers extra wind protection.

It’s also got stretchable side panels in for comfort and flexibility with stretch CORDURA®-reinforced elbows for durability.

With street-smart, contemporary designs, all Snickers Workwear Jackets are packed with must-have features that focus on fit, comfort and freedom of movement as well as using innovative fabrics that deliver long-lasting protection.

Gapotape – Perfect Insulation with PIR Board

Videos

Dylan Garton

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23rd September 2020

0

Gapotape – Perfect Insulation with PIR Board

Gapotape is a multi-award-winning, unique yet simple combination of foil and foam tape, specifically designed for use in conjunction with rigid insulation board. It is the first product proven by the BBA (British Board of Agrément) to eradicate air leakage and thermal bridging where rigid boards are fitted between rafters in roof, walls and floors.

Up until now, rigid insulation has been impossible to install between rafters, studs and joists without airgaps as even the most meticulous installations suffer from inevitable shrinkage, warping and movement of timber elements.

This means that the ‘as built’ U-value of rigid insulation is much less than its ‘as specified’ U-value. This ‘performance gap’ is one of the biggest issues in the construction sector and is a problem for almost all insulation types, most of which have no remedy.

BBA testing illustrates that with Gapotape, rigid insulation’s ‘as-built’ performance can be up to 5 times better as it will constantly expand to fill any space around the board. No other rigid product is capable of expanding on all sides in this manner making rigid insulation fitted with Gapotape truly unique in this application.

Gapotape offers the first holistic non-permeable insulation solution. For the consumer this will ultimately result in a more comfortable living environment, not to mention £1,000’s of fuel savings throughout the lifetime of the build.

When Gapotape is installed around the perimeter of PIR ridged insulation boards, with no air gaps and a tight fit on all four sides the correction level 0 for air voids can be used when calculating U-values to BS EN ISO 6946. Without Gapotape installed a correction for air voids level of 1 or 2 may need to be added to the U-value calculation giving a poorer result.

British Board Agrément Assessment report – April 2015

🛒 Use discount code SB2020 at gaposhop.com

🔽🔽🔽

Perfect Gapotape Partners

EcoTherm polyisocyanurate (PIR) rigid thermal insulation board
www.ecotherm.co.uk

Kingspan Kooltherm K-range fibre-free rigid phenolic core
www.kingspan.com/gb/en-gb/products/insulation/insulation-boards/kooltherm

Part L amendments are on the way, so get ahead of the issue by eliminating the ‘as specified’ vs ‘as built’ performance gap for insulation.

🔗 Conservation of fuel and power Approved Document L

🔗 The Performance Gap at Wikipedia

Robin loves the Festool ISC 240 cordless insulating-material saw.

No products found.

Check out these other videos:

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Van Insurance Quotes Increase by a Third in ‘Quiet’ Month of August

News

Dylan Garton

-

22nd September 2020

0

Van Insurance Quotes Increase by a Third in ‘Quiet’ Month of August

Insurance price comparison specialist The Van Insurer has reported a significant year-on-year increase in quote requests from van drivers for August, which is typically considered a quiet month for the industry.

The online price comparison expert registered 30 per cent more users during August compared with 2019 and processed 32 per cent more quote requests throughout the month.

The news comes as the latest data from The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) indicates that, year-on-year, UK light commercial vehicle (LCV) registrations fell by more than 16 per cent during the ‘traditionally quiet month’ of August when fleets await the new September plate.

Declines were recorded in all classes of vehicles, predominantly vans weighing more than 2.5 to 3.5 tonnes and vans weighing less than or equal to 2.0 tonnes. Overall registrations were down by 36 per cent for the year to date.

Van Insurance Quotes

Ed Bevis, Commercial and Marketing Director at The Van Insurer, says: ‘We know that August can be a quiet month for the industry so it’s great to be bucking the trend.

‘In addition to processing more quote requests, we’ve noticed an increase in visitors to the website, nearly 20 per cent up on the same time last year, which is a healthy sign that the wheels of the van industry are still turning.

‘The economic outlook may still be unclear, but we’re committed to supporting all of our customers by providing competitive quotes that will help to keep them on the road.’

For more information on The Van Insurer and its ‘Cheapest Price Guarantee’, visit www.thevaninsurer.co.uk.

Snickers Kneeguard – Superior, Ergonomic Knee Protection With D30®

Snickers

Dylan Garton

-

22nd September 2020

0

Snickers Kneeguard – Superior, Ergonomic Knee Protection With D30®

World-leading certified Snickers Kneeguard solutions to save your knees.

Hard work all day, every day means that some craftsmen and craftswomen put more pressure on their knees than many top athletes. So, the risk of long-term knee injuries and chronic pain can be far higher among trade professionals than most other occupations.

For years, Snickers Workwear has had the market-leading solution with its trousers and kneepad combination that it invented over thirty years ago. That solution has now become the patented Kneeguard™ and unique Kneeguard PRO system which delivers advanced knee protection for frequent kneeling on site, as well as those annoying knocks and bumps around the workplace.

Snickers Kneeguard Design

Designed specifically for the increasingly popular street-smart, slim fit stretch work trousers, the newest slim fit D30® Ergo kneepads are made of durable material that moulds around your knee to provide enhanced impact protection.

It has an EN 14404 Type 2 Level 1 rating to guard against pebbles, nails and various floor debris. There’s also superior cushioning and protection as standard with D3O^® – a high-tech material that’s flexible, durable and cut-resistant.

See more on Snickers with Skill Builder.

Find out more at www.snickersworkwear.co.uk.

IronmongeryDirect Pledges Support for Fire Door Safety Week

News

Dylan Garton

-

21st September 2020

0

IronmongeryDirect Pledges Support for Fire Door Safety Week

Leading specialist ironmongery supplier, IronmongeryDirect, has pledged its support to this year’s Fire Door Safety Week. As part of the commitment to ensuring compliance with this life saving legislation, IronmongeryDirect has also released a five-step infographic and fire protection guide to explain the requirements.

The infographic, available on the IronmongeryDirect website, has been designed as a visual reference guide on the five fire door checks regarding certification, seals, hinges, closers and gaps around the door, in order to ensure these lifesaving pieces of equipment function as intended.

Dominick Sandford, Director and Head of Merchandising at IronmongeryDirect says, “Fire door safety is crucial all year round, and we want to ensure our customers, regardless of profession, are aware of the requirements surrounding fire doors – as even the slightest misconception can be a huge risk to human life.

Fire Door Safety Week 2020

“As such, in support of Fire Door Safety Week 2020, we’ve created our infographic and fire protection guide to raise awareness of the critical role that fire doors play in the safety of building occupants and to help ensure these doors are correctly installed and maintained.”

Now in its eighth year, Fire Door Safety Week is an awareness campaign designed to increase public understanding of the role that fire doors play in protecting life and property.

For more information please visit www.ironmongerydirect.co.uk.

BiKBBI Sponsor Charlton Athletic Women’s Football Club

News

Dylan Garton

-

21st September 2020

0

BiKBBI Sponsor Charlton Athletic Women’s Football Club

The British Institute of Kitchen, Bedroom & Bathroom Installation (BiKBBI) is delighted to confirm that it will be continuing its sponsorship of Charlton Athletic Women’s Football Club for the 2020/21 season, which will coincide with the launch of a new digital strategy for the Women’s Championship side.

BiKBBI’s sponsorship of Charlton Athletic Women began in 2018 and despite the challenges faced by many businesses this year, the government-sanctioned organisation is keen to maintain its support for both the club and women’s football in general.

Speaking on behalf of the organisation, CEO Damian Walters said: “The continued synergy between the male-dominated sport and vocational careers remain apparent. Both the world of football and home improvement and construction would benefit enormously from a more gender-balanced representation.”

Damian added: “Now is not the time to withdraw support. In fact, this is the time to get behind it more than ever. Charlton Athletic Women need local businesses and supporters to get behind this club and to support its reach into the community and thousands of children.

Girls should be encouraged to play football and with our partnership they’ll also be made aware of the opportunities that exist within the home improvement industry – including the Fitted Interiors Apprenticeship we champion.”

Charlton Athletic Women’s Football Club thoughts

Charlton Athletic Women’s General Manager Steve Adamson commented by saying: “BiKBBI’s continued sponsorship of Charlton Athletic Women’s Football Club is very much applauded.

Football has a real job to readjust post-COVID and it is this type of support that helps us to survive. But we need more support and we invite other businesses to follow suit and get involved.”

Part of BiKBBI’s sponsorship with Charlton Women’s Football Club will be to launch a new digital strategy to include a brand new mobile responsive website, that will form a home for the wider digital plan and to further reach out into the community. Further details for this will be announced soon.

Charlton Athletic Women are looking for sponsors and partners to help support them throughout the 2020/21 season and beyond.

If you are interested, especially in being part of the new website launch, please email Commercial@CAWFC.com.

See more from BiKBBI on Skill Builder.

Find out more about The British Institute of Kitchen, Bedroom & Bathroom Installation

Reverse Circulation Update ~ Know Your House

Dylan Garton

-

21st September 2020

0

Reverse Circulation Update ~ Know Your House

This is an update on a previous KYH episode where Roger missed out some info.

Roger wants to help everybody understand their house better and take care of all of those little jobs that have been bugging you.

Do you have something in your house that you want to get your head around?
Get in touch: https://skill-builder.uk/send

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Perfect Gapotape Partners

Van Insurance Quotes

Snickers Kneeguard Design

Fire Door Safety Week 2020

Charlton Athletic Women’s Football Club thoughts

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