Platipus Earth Anchoring Systems

🔗 platipus-anchors.com

🔗 Platipus S8 PDEA – Installation Guide For Retaining Walls

It Is Essential To Prevent Wall Collapses

Wall collapses within the building trade are a serious safety concern, often resulting from inadequate planning, poor construction practices, or external environmental factors. They can occur during construction, renovation, or demolition, and they pose significant risks to workers and nearby structures.

Platipus Earth Anchoring Systems prevent wall collapses effectively, particularly in scenarios involving retaining walls, sheet piles, and temporary excavation supports. These systems utilise Percussion Driven Earth Anchors (PDEA®), which are post-tensioned to provide immediate stabilisation against lateral pressures such as soil loads and hydrostatic forces.

How Platipus Systems Help Prevent Wall Collapses :

1. Reinforcement of Retaining Structures:
   • Retaining walls are supported by anchoring systems that counteract the forces exerted by the retained soil.

• Platipus anchors are used as tiebacks, creating a cost-effective and durable solution that resists overturning and sliding forces

Temporary Excavation Support:

• • Excavations, especially in unstable or loose soils, require reinforcement to prevent wall collapse during construction.
  • Platipus systems are ideal for these temporary conditions, providing quick and reliable anchoring with minimal soil disturbance

Load-Locking Mechanism:

The anchors are driven into the soil and tensioned to a pre-determined load, ensuring the wall is stabilised immediately upon installation.

• • This minimises movement or shifting that could lead to failure

Managing Hydrostatic Pressure:

• • Their Plati-Drain® system can alleviate hydrostatic pressure behind walls by providing drainage while maintaining anchoring strength. This is critical for retaining walls and slopes, as water buildup is a common cause of failure

Adaptability to Soil Types:

• • The anchors perform well in granular soils, cohesive soils, and mixed conditions, making them versatile for projects in different environments

Key Features:

• Minimal installation time and disturbance.
• Corrosion-resistant materials ensure long-term durability.
• Real-time load testing ensures the anchoring system meets the design specifications

Platipus systems are widely used in civil engineering projects to reinforce retaining walls and excavation supports, making them a trusted choice for preventing wall collapses under various conditions. For further technical details, their official resources provide comprehensive guidance.

Property Developer Sentenced After Wall Collapse

What Is A Housing Crisis?

The Uk Housing crisis refers to a long-standing and multifaceted issue characterised by a mismatch between housing demand and supply, leading to problems with affordability, availability, and quality of housing. The crisis affects millions of people across the country, and its roots lie in decades of underinvestment in housing, economic factors, and population growth.

What are Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs)

▶ sips.org/what-are-sips

Structural insulated panels (SIPs) are a high-performance building system for residential and light commercial construction. The panels have an insulating foam core sandwiched between two structural facings, typically oriented strand board (OSB). The result is an extremely strong, energy-efficient, and cost-effective building system.

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Kingspan TEK Building System

▶ kingspan.com/gb/en/products/structural-insulated-panels

The TEK Building System comprises 142 mm or 172 mm thick Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) with a high-performance fibre-free rigid urethane insulation core sandwiched between two layers of Oriented Strand Board type 3 (OSB/3). It is used to construct walls, roofs, and intermediate floors using I-beams or open web joists.

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Insulating Concrete Formwork (ICF)

▶ icfa.org.uk

Insulating Concrete Formwork (ICF) is an energy-efficient building method for creating insulated structural walls in residential and commercial buildings.

Building with Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF) is a now-proven way of creating an eco-friendly, more robust, safer, highly energy-efficient building that needs minimal maintenance and repair and where design possibilities are limitless.

The housing crisis is a deeply entrenched issue that requires coordinated efforts across government, private developers, and communities to address effectively.

Brownfield Sites – Can They Help Solve Housing Crisis?

OUR BEST EVER VIDEO
🔗 youtu.be/NwB8cxZlZTw

Abacus Wall-Hung Toilet
🔗 abacus-bathrooms.co.uk/#!/sanitaryware-furniture/wcs/wall-hung-wcs

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WALL-HUNG TOILET FITTING STEPS

Prep the Wall and Space: Begin by checking the wall where the toilet will be mounted. Make sure all necessary connections (water and waste pipes) are in place and correctly aligned.

Add Silicon to Flush Pipe: Apply a small amount of silicon to the flush pipe connection to ensure it fits snugly. This helps reduce friction and prevents leaks. A small pot of silicon (though costly) is recommended for a secure fit.

Adjust Pipe Length: Measure and trim the pipe carefully to ensure it fits precisely. Roger recommends subtracting around 8mm from the measurement to avoid future issues when tightening the pan to the wall. Trim slightly more if necessary to prevent the pipe from dislodging when pressure is applied.

Remove Burs: After cutting the pipe, file down any rough edges or burs, especially on the inside. Use a small file or knife to smooth the surface completely to avoid damaging the connection.

Test Fit the Pipe: Insert the pipe into the fitting to ensure it goes in smoothly and aligns correctly with the toilet. Mark where the pipe meets the tile to help with placement.

Position the Studs and Grub Screws: Measure the distance from the wall (usually around 35mm) and install the studs accordingly. Place the grub screws into position, and as you adjust them, they’ll pull the pan snugly toward the wall.

Final Adjustments: Insert the Allen keys into the grub screws to tighten the pan. Once the pan is levelled and stable, apply a final bead of silicon along the back edge to keep it securely in place.

Inspect for Stability: Check that the toilet is mounted securely and aligned perfectly with the wall. If everything looks good, your wall-hung toilet is ready for use!

Abacus Wall-Hung Toilet & Basin

Low Water Pressure Explained and Solved

Summary:

Understanding Low Water Pressure: Many UK homes face low water pressure and flow issues. The video explores simple solutions, primarily using Salamander Pumps, to increase water pressure without re-plumbing.

Flow vs. Pressure: Flow and pressure are related but not the same. Low flow can occur with high pressure and vice versa, affecting shower experiences noticeably.

Gravity-Fed vs. Mains Systems: Many UK homes use gravity-fed systems, leading to lower pressure in some areas. The historical context of the system explains why it remains prevalent.

Improving Pressure with Pumps: Installing pumps, such as Salamander shower pumps, can help increase both hot and cold water flow, enhancing shower performance.

Types of Pumps and Configurations: Different pumps, such as positive head and negative head pumps, are available based on the home’s water system configuration.

Using Accumulators for Boosting Flow: An accumulator like the AccuBoost stores water pressure and provides a boost when needed, which can help supply multiple showers simultaneously.

🔗 salamanderpumps.co.uk/products/mainsbooster/accuboost-tanks

Insights Based on Numbers

0.7 bar: This is the minimum pressure the water company is legally required to provide at the property boundary, a critical value for understanding household water pressure.

15 meters head: Equivalent to 1.5 bar, illustrating how much elevation is needed to achieve effective shower pressure, a challenge for typical homes.

Flow Rates for Optimal Performance: At least 1 litre per 30 seconds per side of the pump is recommended for consistent operation, indicating the importance of adequate inflow rates.

Fix Low Water Pressure With Accuboost

Trafalgar Square is one of London’s most iconic public spaces, steeped in history and known for its impressive architecture and monuments. For builders and tradesmen, the square represents a remarkable example of design, craftsmanship, and engineering that has stood the test of time.

Completed in 1844, the square was designed by architect Sir Charles Barry, best known for his work on the Houses of Parliament. It was constructed as a public space to commemorate the British naval victory at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805.

The centrepiece of Trafalgar Square is Nelson’s Column, a 52-metre-high structure built from granite quarried in Devon. The column was constructed by Messrs Grissell and Peto, a renowned firm of civil engineers and contractors. It’s a testament to precision masonry, as each column segment was crafted and aligned with meticulous care.

Builders might appreciate the challenge of lifting the 17-foot statue of Admiral Nelson to the top, a feat achieved without the mechanical cranes we take for granted today.

Another standout feature for tradesmen is the intricate stonework of the National Gallery, which forms the square’s northern boundary. The building’s classical facade features ornate cornices, columns, and pediments that showcase the skills of the stonemasons and craftsmen of the time.

The square itself is also a marvel of construction. During its 2003 refurbishment, it was paved with York stone laid in a herringbone pattern. Modern drainage and lighting were carefully integrated into the design, respecting the historic aesthetic while improving functionality.

For those in the trade, Trafalgar Square is a prime example of how traditional construction methods, quality materials, and clever engineering can combine to create a space that is both functional and symbolic. It’s a reminder of the craftsmanship and dedication that define the building trade.

Trafalgar Square Links

Nelson’s Column
🔗 britannica.com/place/Nelsons-Column

The National Gallery
🔗 nationalgallery.org.uk

George IV (r. 1820-1830)
🔗 royal.uk/george-iv

The Fourth Plinth
🔗 london.gov.uk/fourth-plinth

🔗 Crazy London Stories On Regents Canal

How to Cure a Bouncing Floor

These homeowners noticed a persistent bouncing floor issue after some repairs were completed, similar to a trampoline effect. The video explains the background of the problem, the inspection process, and the steps taken to resolve the issue successfully.

Background of the Problem

The house suffered extensive damage due to an accidental fire, which was caused by a magnifying glass left on a table. Sunlight passing through it ignited the curtains, leading to a blaze that affected the entire structure. The elderly couple, who owned the house, had been dealing with this disruption for over two years while repairs were underway. After returning to their refurbished home, they discovered an unusual bounce in the floor, which was not present before the fire.

Investigation and Diagnosis

The issue was reported to the flooring company, but they and the insurance company claimed that the bounce was a pre-existing problem. However, the surveyor’s findings and the fact that the floor did not have this issue prior to the fire contradicted this. Suspecting that the problem was related to the flooring installation, Roger took it upon himself to investigate further.

Upon inspection, it was suggested that the likely cause was insufficient expansion gaps. When floors expand due to temperature changes or moisture, lack of proper spacing can cause them to warp, leading to a bouncy effect.

The Solution: Step-by-Step Approach

Accessing the Problem Area: Roger had to crawl under the floor to inspect and address the issue. He reached the problematic zones despite tight spaces, highlighting the challenges faced during such repairs.

Reinforcing the Floor: The proposed solution involved placing packers to stabilize the joists. This process required careful measurement to ensure the gaps were filled correctly. A dry mix of sand and cement was also applied to pack the gap between the wall plate and the wall, providing extra stability.

Final Adjustments: To address the tight areas where access was limited, Roger had to make precise adjustments to ensure that the floor would not need to be removed entirely. This careful approach minimized the homeowners’ disruption while effectively solving the problem.

Outcome and Key Takeaways

After the repairs, everything felt solid, and the bouncing floor issue was resolved. A small concern regarding a section in the back was deemed less significant and manageable. The video illustrates the importance of leaving proper expansion gaps during flooring installations to prevent such issues.

Additionally, Roger emphasised the value of patience and creativity when dealing with structural repairs. By carefully assessing the problem and choosing the right tools and methods, he delivered a solution that avoided significant disruptions for the homeowners.

Final Thoughts

Reinforcing the joists and ensuring the flooring could expand and contract without causing issues effectively cured the bouncing floor. The video is a helpful guide for understanding the importance of correct flooring installation techniques, and offers insights into how structural problems can be diagnosed and fixed efficiently.

By following these guidelines, homeowners and contractors can better address similar issues and prevent long-term problems such as bouncing floors.

Bouncing Floor Joist Mystery Solved

What It Really Means If Your Floor Is Bouncy

London – History, Architecture & Hidden Gems

Join Roger in as he takes a walk through the historic streets of Smithfield and Clerkenwell. From the chaotic days of the Bartholomew Fair to the bustling trade at Smithfield Meat Market, Roger dives into the stories that shaped these iconic areas.

Along the way, he shares the brutal history of public executions, including Queen Mary’s persecution of Protestants, and explores landmarks like Bartholomew’s Hospital, where William Wallace met his grisly end.

Roger also examines St Bartholomew the Great, London’s oldest parish church, revealing how it survived the Great Fire.

Marvel at the stunning architecture of Smithfield Market, designed by the same mind behind Tower Bridge, and check out some classic telephone boxes preserved for posterity.

As he moves into Clerkenwell, Roger uncovers its past as a hub for printing and radical thought, with connections to Karl Marx and the Knights Hospitaller, whose legacy lives on through St John Ambulance. Explore hidden passageways, restored historic buildings, and intriguing little details that often go unnoticed.

Wrapping up in Hatton Garden, Roger shares personal stories from London’s jewellery quarter, with a light-hearted take on the Prince Albert statue and its modern-day associations.

A perfect stroll for anyone fascinated by history, architecture, and hidden gems.

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? LINKS

History of Smithfield Market
https://www.londonmuseum.org.uk/collections/london-stories/history-smithfield-market

St Bartholomew’s Hospital History
https://bartsheritage.org.uk/restoring-historic-barts/learning/museum-and-archive

The Knights Hospitaller and St John Ambulance
https://www.sosjinternational.org/history

The Great Fire of London and Its Impact
https://www.history.ox.ac.uk/facing-catastrophe-great-fire-london

The History of Hatton Garden
https://www.queensmith.co.uk/journal/hatton-garden-jewellers-a-brief-history

Bartholomew Fair – A Look Back at the Infamous Event
https://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/Bartholomew-Fair

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? CHAPTERS

00:00 Welcome to Smithfield
00:35 Bartholomew Fair
02:05 Bloody Mary
03:35 Bartholomew’s Hospital
05:15 St Bartholomew the Great
08:41 Pipe & Stonework
10:09 Little Britain
11:11 Dumped Metal Myth
13:53 Barts Restoration
14:50 St Bartholomew the Less
15:26 Smithfield Market
17:31 St Johns Street
19:38 Lovely Pipe
21:21 Clerkenwell
23:35 Pennybank
24:51 Hatton Garden
25:37 Ely Place
26:59 Prince Albert

The Secrets Behind The Capitals Bridges

Roger shows you what to do when sink plunging fails.

? SHOPPING LINKS ?

Heavy Duty Plumbers Snake
? https://amzn.to/4eX6Mkq

Ridgid 63703 Drain Cleaner
? https://amzn.to/4e37USm

Klangfeiler Sink & Drain Plunger
? https://amzn.to/3YCFqug

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Sink plunging driving you crazy?

In this video, we show you how to unblock a sink with simple, step-by-step instructions. Whether you’re dealing with a slow drain or a complete blockage, our guide covers everything you need to know to get your sink draining smoothly again. Follow along as we demonstrate how to diagnose the issue, use plungers and plumbing snakes, and offer tips to prevent future clogs.

What You’ll Learn in This Video:

Common causes of blocked sinks and how to identify them.
Step-by-step process to clean the U-bend (sink trap).
How to use a plunger effectively for better results.
Using a plumbing snake to clear deeper blockages.
Checking external drains or manholes if the problem persists.
Essential tips to prevent future sink blockages.

Tools You’ll Need:

– Plunger
– Plumbing snake
– Bucket
– Rubber gloves
– Cloth or rag

Don’t let a clogged sink ruin your day! Watch our video now to learn how to avoid sink plunging failure easily. If you find this guide helpful, like, share, and subscribe for more practical home maintenance tips!

Keywords: how to unblock a sink, clear a blocked sink, unclog a drain, sink not draining, plumbing tips, DIY plumbing, fix a clogged sink, home maintenance.

#UnblockSink #CloggedDrain #DIYPlumbing

More Sink Unblocking Pro Tips

Datatag Forensic Marking Security System
https://www.datatag.co.uk
@DatatagID

Forensic marking can come in a variety of forms; overt & covert technology, frequency transponders and warning labels – Datatag makes your vehicles and property identifiable to the Police in such a way, that is virtually impossible for a thief to defeat.

Since being introduced in 1992, Datatag forensic marking has recorded many significant successes in theft reduction. It has assisted in dramatically reducing the amount of stolen property in many markets including Motorcycles, Plant and Machinery, Cycles and Personal Watercraft or “Jet Skis”. An independent survey conducted by the Motorcycle Industry Association (MCIA) declared that without Datatag forensic marking fitted, a motorcycle is more than twice as likely to be stolen. Datatag is supported and recommended by many insurers, authorities and organisations and governing bodies including the Personal Watercraft Partnership (PWP), Auto Cycle Union (ACU), Royal Yachting Association (RYA) and British Marine Federation (BMF).

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▶ Secured by Design (SBD)
https://www.securedbydesign.com

Abacus Linear Uno Tray Kit ?
https://www.abacus-bathrooms.co.uk/#!/search?q=uno

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The Abacus Bathrooms Linear Uno Tray Kit is a high-quality shower tray, designed to provide a sleek and modern look for wetroom installations.

Low-Profile Design: The tray is ultra-slim, ensuring a minimalist aesthetic that sits almost flush with the bathroom floor, making it ideal for contemporary spaces.

High-Quality Materials: It is constructed from a durable, lightweight material that offers both strength and stability. The surface is typically resistant to water and stains, ensuring long-lasting performance.

Pre-Sloped for Efficient Drainage: The tray is designed with a slight slope, guiding water directly to the drain, which helps prevent standing water and ensures efficient drainage.

Customisable Sizes: The Linear Uno Tray Kit often comes in various sizes, catering to different bathroom layouts. It can be cut to fit specific dimensions, allowing for flexibility in design.

Easy Installation: The kit includes all necessary components, making installation straightforward for professionals. It may also include a waterproof membrane to ensure no leaks occur.

Sleek, Linear Drain: One of its distinguishing features is the linear drain, which not only adds to the modern aesthetic but also efficiently channels water away, reducing the risk of blockages.

Versatile Finishes: The tray may be available in different finishes to match various bathroom styles, from classic white to more textured, stone-like surfaces.

More From Skillbuilder – Abacus Infinity Tray

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? CHAPTERS

00:00 The Uno Tray
00:52 Subfloor Prep
01:25 Unboxing
01:57 Dry Fit
02:52 Marking Up
03:24 Shower Trap
05:00 Tray Position
06:08 Floor Securing
06:31 Beware of the Dog!
06:40 Floor Priming
06:47 Adhesive
07:50 Waste Screws
09:25 Tanking
10:23 Drainage Channel
12:35 New Ducket
13:20 Tiling
13:29 Finished Room
15:27 Corner Fitting
17:23 Final Thoughts

? ALL OF OUR VIDEOS! ?
https://www.youtube.com/user/skillbuilderchannel/videos

Advice for those affected by PWC liquidation:
https://www.labc.co.uk/news/pwc-building-control-services-ltd-liquidation-advice-those-affected
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PWC Building Control Services Ltd
https://www.pwc.uk.net

PWC applied to The Building Safety Regulator (BSR) to be put on the Building Control Approvers Register on the 1st February 2024.
The BSR advised PWC that their application had failed, and therefore not being on the Register, it cannot provide any of the building control functions.

PWC has issued Initial Notice Cancellations for all projects. The cancellations will be sent to the relevant Local Authority and a copy of this will also be sent to the applicant by email or letter. These cancellations notices were issued up to 28th August 2024.

PWC LIQUIDATION FAQs

Q. What is meant by ‘cannot provide any of the building control functions’?
A. PWC is no longer able to carry out any building control functions, including final inspections.

Q. What do I have to do now as PWC can no longer provide any of the building control functions?
A. The work that PWC was undertaking has ceased immediately, therefore please contact your Local Authority Building Control department. You are likely to have to make a new (Regularisation) application to the Local Authority for the building work.

Q. Who will inspect the building work going forward?
A. This cannot be done by PWC and you will therefore need to contact your Local Authority Building Control department.

Q. What is meant by ‘being placed into liquidation’?
A. If you have paid for a service that you have not received and are a creditor of PWC, you will soon receive notice directly from the proposed liquidators regarding the liquidation process. Please note that the proposed liquidators are dealing with placing PWC into liquidation and will not be able to assist you with queries regarding the instruction of a replacement building inspector.

Q. Can I claim the refund that I am due from the PWC liquidation?
A. The information that you will receive regarding the liquidation will provide details of how you may claim the funds you are owed within that process.

Has Building Contol Lost Control?

? LINKS ?

Hereford Cathedral
https://www.herefordcathedral.org

All Saints Church
https://westherefordteam.org.uk/allsaints

London Warming and Ventilating Co
https://www.gracesguide.co.uk/London_Warming_and_Ventilating_Co

Kilpeck Church of St Mary and St David
https://kilpeckchurch.org.uk

Kilpeck Castle
https://www.castlewales.com/kilpeck.html

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Skilled Craftsmen Of Hereford

The Skill Builder team heads to Herefordshire to see the incredible buildings near the Welsh border, focusing on the often overlooked, but skilled craftsmen who built these structures. While famous architects like Sir Christopher Wren are credited with designs, the labourers remain forgotten.

Highlights include the tomb of Sir Richard Pembridge, a knight from the Battle of Crécy, crafted in alabaster, and the intricate carvings found in local churches. Roger also visits the SAS memorial in Hereford, honouring fallen soldiers.

Challenges in modernising historical buildings are discussed, particularly regarding preserving their integrity while adding modern amenities like electrical wiring. We examine old heating systems used in churches, such as gas-fired heaters, which were often inefficient in large, cold interiors.

Medieval carvings and stained glass windows told stories to illiterate populations. A notable example is the carvings at Kilpeck Church, where religious and mythical themes are intricately depicted, including a traditional fertility symbol, the Sheela na gig.

The influence of Norman architecture is discussed, showing how they introduced ambitious designs and skilled craftsmen after the Norman conquest. The stonemason’s yard visit demonstrates how modern masons continue the legacy, using traditional tools and techniques to maintain these ancient structures.

Hereford, A Historic City

Situated in western England near the border with Wales, Hereford has roots that reach back to early medieval times, gaining prominence during the Middle Ages as a center of political, religious, and economic importance. The city’s recorded history begins with its founding as a Saxon settlement in the 7th century, with its strategic location along the River Wye making it a valuable defensive and trading hub. By the time of the Norman Conquest in 1066, Hereford was already an established urban center with a cathedral, symbolising its growing status.

In the early Middle Ages, Hereford was fortified, especially as skirmishes with Welsh kingdoms were frequent due to its proximity to the border. The construction of Hereford Castle in the 12th century by the Normans skilled craftsmen further solidified its role as a defensive stronghold. The castle became a key site for royal and military gatherings, reflecting the city’s importance in managing the border with Wales, where tensions often ran high.

The cathedral, first built in the 7th century, underwent significant reconstruction by skilled craftsmen in 1079 under Bishop Robert de Losinga. The resulting Romanesque structure, much of which still stands, became a focal point for the community, embodying both religious authority and architectural grandeur. The Hereford Cathedral also houses the Mappa Mundi, a medieval map of the known world created around 1300, reflecting Hereford’s importance as a scholarly and religious site during this period.

Economically, the Middle Ages saw Hereford thrive as an agricultural center, with markets that attracted traders from the surrounding countryside. Its wool and cattle industries helped sustain the city’s growth, allowing it to become one of the primary market towns in the region.

By the end of the Middle Ages, Hereford had firmly established itself as a significant city on the Welsh border. Thanks to those skilled craftsmen, Its medieval fortifications, cathedral, and market traditions set the foundation for a community that would continue to grow and evolve, shaping Hereford into a city known for its heritage and resilience.

Skilled Craftsmen Of Henry VIII’s Time

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? CHAPTERS

00:00 Welcome to Hereford
00:53 Hereford Cathedral
01:16 Sir Richard Pembridge
02:35 Special Air Service
02:55 Retrofit
04:05 Super Stove
05:48 The Stanbury Chapel
07:38 Man of God
09:18 Stonemasons
10:45 All Saints Church
14:34 Kilpeck Church
20:44 Kilpeck Castle

Tool Theft: A Growing Concern for Tradespeople and Homeowners

According to research from Direct Line business insurance, theft of tools were reported to police every 12 minutes in 2023. These figures show an increase on the previous year by 5%, despite Tradespeople taking extra precautions to secure their tools.

Clearly, Tool theft is an escalating issue affecting tradespeople and homeowners alike, with significant financial and emotional consequences. For tradespeople, tools are more than just instruments—they are essential assets for their livelihood. Unfortunately, the rise in tool theft over recent years has created a pressing problem, with reported cases increasing steadily.

One of the primary reasons for this surge in tool theft is the resale value of high-quality tools. Power tools, in particular, are often targeted for their high demand in secondary markets, making them easy to sell online or at pawn shops. Opportunistic thieves are drawn to the portability, value, and relative ease of access to tools left unattended on job sites or in vehicles.

In this video, Sam and Jen share their tool theft experience – A break-in at their rural workshop, where their tools were stolen. They suspect thieves discovered their location through social media. Despite having CCTV, the burglars avoided detection by exploiting blind spots.

Sam regrets not setting the alarm before leaving on holiday and emphasises the importance of marking tools for recovery. He’s now upgrading security with reinforced doors, more cameras, and motion sensors. Skill Builder surprises Sam with a new impact driver and a driveway alarm. The video also advises on protecting geolocation data in photos and offers tool-marking tips.

The impact on victims of tool theft is profound. For a tradesperson, the loss of tools means a delay in work, resulting in missed income and often requiring immediate, costly replacement. Moreover, replacing stolen tools can be challenging and time-consuming, particularly if the tools are specialized or expensive. For small businesses or independent contractors, tool theft can severely hinder their ability to operate.

Preventative measures are essential in combating this issue. Many tradespeople are turning to tool tracking devices, which can help locate stolen items. Vehicle alarms, secure lockboxes, and heavy-duty chains are additional deterrents. Moreover, marking tools with unique identifiers can discourage theft and help authorities track stolen items. Insurance can also offer some financial relief, though it often falls short of covering the entire replacement cost.

Law enforcement agencies and local authorities are also recognizing tool theft as a major issue, with some areas organizing initiatives to raise awareness and reduce crime. However, more concerted efforts are needed to address this widespread problem. As tool theft continues to rise, a collaborative approach—one that includes police, communities, and industry players—will be essential to protect tradespeople’s livelihoods and deter would-be thieves.

Useful Kit To Combat Tool Theft

Mydome Driveway Alarm
? https://amzn.to/47V9rZ3

Makita DTD172Z 18V LXT Impact Driver
? https://amzn.to/4gUWpin
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▶ @selectadna Advanced Forensic Marking

10% DISCOUNT CODE: TOOL10
https://www.selectadna.co.uk/dna-asset-marking/selectadna-tools-and-equipment-kit

There were 449,000 reported burglaries in the UK last year. By using SelectaDNA to mark your property with a unique DNA identifier, they can help you protect your home or business, so that you don’t become a victim too.

▶ Datatag Forensic Marking Security System
https://www.datatag.co.uk
@DatatagID

Datatag makes your vehicles and property identifiable to the Police in such a way that is virtually impossible for a thief to defeat.

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▶ How to Remove Metadata from Images on Your WordPress Website
https://skill-builder.uk/how-to-remove-metadata-from-images

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▶ Secured by Design (SBD)
https://www.securedbydesign.com

Secured by Design (SBD) is the official police security initiative that improves the security of buildings and their immediate surroundings to provide safe places to live, work, shop, and visit.

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