Skill Builder

Weep Hole Heroes: weepholeheroes.com
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The Truth About Cavity Wall Ventilation

Let’s delve into the frequently misunderstood topic of cavity wall ventilation. Hosted by Roger Bisby from the Skill Builder channel, this discussion addresses one of the most common questions homeowners and builders face: Should cavity walls be ventilated, or is sealing them a better option?

Cavity walls are a crucial component of modern home construction, designed to prevent water penetration by creating a barrier that allows rainwater to drain harmlessly to the ground. However, adding insulation and air bricks has created confusion about whether cavities require ventilation to “breathe.”

Roger debunks misconceptions, such as the belief that air bricks ventilate the cavity. Instead, he clarifies their role in ventilating subfloor spaces or providing direct airflow into rooms. He also explains the importance of sealing the top of the cavity to prevent issues like loft condensation caused by evaporating dampness from open cavities.

The video highlights how a sealed cavity improves insulation performance. Eliminating air movement makes trapped air within the cavity a natural insulator, enhancing energy efficiency and reducing heat loss. Practical advice includes using mastic or silicone to seal gaps around windows, doors, and other openings, ensuring maximum insulation value—even without additional cavity wall insulation.

Whether you’re a homeowner looking to improve your property’s insulation or a professional seeking clarity on best practices, this video provides straightforward, actionable guidance on cavity wall ventilation. With over 1,000 home building and renovation videos, the Skill Builder channel is your go-to source for tackling common construction challenges.

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Cavity Wall Ventilation – What You Need To Know

• Purpose of Cavity Walls: The primary function of cavity walls is to stop water penetration by allowing rain to run down the cavity and soak into the ground.
• Common Misconceptions: Air bricks are often misunderstood; they ventilate the subfloor space, not the cavity itself.

❌ Sealing Is Key: Open cavities can lead to condensation issues in the loft due to evaporation. Proper sealing prevents air movement, improving insulation.

• Insulation Benefits: Trapped air within a sealed cavity acts as a natural insulator, enhancing energy efficiency.
• Practical Advice: Seal gaps around windows, doors, and air bricks using mastic or silicone to optimize the cavity’s insulation.

See ‘How To Avoid A Cavity Crisis’

FEATURED IN THIS VIDEO (Skill Builder Amazon Associate links)

MULTIM for Stihl Chainsaw Sharpener

Oregon Chainsaw Safety Clothing Kit

eSkde 58cc Petrol Chainsaw

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Preventing Chainsaw Fails

That moment when your Chainsaw fails… Chainsaws can be invaluable tools for anyone managing wood burners or handling logs, but they come with their challenges, especially for first-time buyers opting for inexpensive models.

1. Safety Considerations

Chainsaw operation carries inherent risks. The video emphasises the importance of safety by recommending users watch chainsaw safety tutorials and invest in essential protective gear. For around £70, one can purchase a complete safety kit, including helmets, gloves, and protective trousers. However, poorly fitting gloves can limit effectiveness, highlighting the importance of choosing appropriate sizes.

2. Performance Issues with Cheap Chainsaws

A primary focus is on the inadequacies of budget chainsaws. The showcased model, a £100 Chinese-made chainsaw, received positive reviews online, but proved disappointing in practice. Issues included the chain falling off and inefficient wood cutting, primarily due to poor-quality components and inadequate maintenance. Definitely one of the few chainsaw fails there!

3. Maintenance and Sharpening

The video underscores the critical need for regular maintenance. For instance, oilers in chainsaws often clog, failing to lubricate the chain properly, which leads to excessive wear and reduced efficiency. Adjusting oilers and cleaning the system regularly is essential. Moreover, dull chains significantly hinder cutting ability. Demonstrations in the video illustrate the stark difference between cutting with a dull versus a sharp chain.

4. Sharpening Tools and Techniques

Affordable sharpening tools, available for as little as £10, can revitalize chains and improve performance. Proper sharpening techniques, such as ensuring the correct angle and maintaining even sharpness across teeth, extend the chain’s lifespan. These solutions empower users to achieve professional results even with budget equipment.

By addressing these issues, the video equips viewers with the knowledge to make safer, smarter, and more cost-effective chainsaw choices, reducing the chance of a multitude of chainsaw fails.

See ‘Chainsaw Safety’

Roger learns the tricks of the trade with Kirk Johnstone from On The Trowel.

MORE PLASTERING VIDEOS

youtu.be/uUalZH398A8

youtu.be/fp7OW9o5un0

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Plastering Tutorial – Plaster Like a Pro!

This detailed plastering tutorial takes you through every step of the plastering process, from mixing plaster to achieving a smooth, professional finish. With insights from Kirk Johnstone, a seasoned pro, and Roger Bisby, a novice trying his hand, this video is packed with practical advice, tips, and tricks for beginners and experienced plasterers.

Key Topics Covered:

• Mixing Plaster: Learn the perfect water-to-plaster ratio (50:50) and why clean tools and fresh materials are essential.

• Tool Techniques: Discover how to use trowels, hawks, and brushes effectively for a flawless finish.

• Two-Coat Method: Understand why a first coat levels the wall, and a second coat refines the surface for that perfect look.

• Timing and Consistency: Master the art of knowing when plaster is ready for the next step to avoid cracks and imperfections.

• Common Mistakes to Avoid: From using the wrong tools to over-polishing, find out how to sidestep rookie errors.

Whether you’re a homeowner tackling a DIY project or a budding plasterer looking to sharpen your skills, this plastering tutorial has something for everyone.

5 Plastering Tools For Every Job

Roger gets Kirk Johnstone from On The Trowel to look at a monocouche K Rend plaster disaster..

Struggling with plastering challenges? Roger and Kirk dive deep into common plaster disasters faced during render repairs, focusing on problems like cracking, discolouration, and texture mismatches.

We discuss the notorious difficulties of working with monocouche render like K Rend, and how to navigate the minefield of patching up imperfections. Learn why colours like grey make blending harder and why beginners might find white a better choice for smoother finishes.

The video emphasises the importance of preparation, detailing steps such as removing obstacles, applying the right bead sizes, and using essential tools like eye bars for scraping. It also explores advanced techniques to avoid visible texture mismatches and ensure seamless blending, even for tough jobs. The insights shared here will elevate your plastering skills, whether it’s about brushing or pressure-washing walls to clean off dust or addressing the proper curing time for scraping renders.

Buy Your Pre Worn In Plasterers Trowel Here

Quick DIY Plaster Patching

TOTO Washlet Range
eu.toto.com/en/products/washlets

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Featured in this video:

CW553EY TOTO WASHLET

• Rimless design for improved hygiene and easier cleaning
• With especially durable, dirt-repellent CEFIONTECT glaze
• Extremely efficient and quiet TORNADO FLUSH produces no spray
• Uses little water with a water-saving 4.5-litre flush

This wall-hung GP toilet has a modern, round design that catches the eye and compliments the WASHLET® models listed below.

It does not have a rim, so there are no hard-to-reach places for dirt or waste to accumulate – making every inch of the toilet bowl quick and easy to clean.

DIY Wall Hung Toilets – What You Need To Know

Abacus EZ Box Shower Valve
abacus-bathrooms.co.uk
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EZ Box Thermostatic Shower Valve with 2 or 3 Way

Shower Valve Complete Box Set

3 outlets with two handles options – each outlet can only be used independently

Set includes: 1 x EZ Box 2.0 and 1 x Finish Set

Min 1.0 bar

Brushed Nickel Finish

Optional Metal Fixing Plate Available (EPFP-05-3005)

Available Finishes:
– Chrome
– Brushed Nickel
– Brushed Bronze
– Matt Anthracite
– Matt Black

More From Abacus – UNO Tray Kit

Roger tries out the MAXVAC Dustblocker DB650 Air Scrubber..

The Dustblocker DB650 is designed to capture airborne dust particles and, most importantly, those invisible to the naked eye but will work their way deep into the respiratory system of those exposed to them, making them the most dangerous. The DB650 offers round-the-clock protection as a powerful air filtration system packaged into a single, compact unit.

MAXVAC Dustblocker Air Scrubbers
max-vac.com/en-gb/collections/dustblocker-range

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All models of the Dustblocker series are equipped with a G3, G4 filter and a Main HEPA filter.

They are also equipped with the same control panel, which increases ease of use when multiple models are used.

Depending on the work to be carried out the main filter can be changed to give maximum effectiveness in the area of use.

It is important to ensure the air scrubber’s airflow is correct for the size of the area.

If the correct Dustblocker is used, a dust reduction of at least 50% in the respective area within the first 30 minutes of use and at least 70% after one hour can be achieved.

Addex Dustblocker Review

Materials in this video

Drybase TS-PLUS Tanking Slurry
amzn.to/4iq2apd

Dryzone Hi-Lime Renovation Plaster
safeguardstore.co.uk/dryzone-renovation-plasters

Drybase 3mm Plaster Membrane Mesh
amzn.to/3OE51gB

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How to Stop Damp in Your Home: A Comprehensive Guide

Damp issues can wreak havoc on homes, particularly in basements and below-ground areas where moisture is most persistent. Addressing dampness effectively requires careful preparation, the right materials, and a thorough application process. This article explores proven strategies to stop damp for good, based on techniques demonstrated in the video, The Easiest Way To Stop Damp For Good.

Step 1: Preparing the Wall Surface

The first step to stop damp is ensuring a smooth and stable surface. Applying a straightening coat of render is essential to create a flat base. This eliminates any unevenness that could compromise the adhesion of waterproofing materials. For walls with rough brickwork or paint, levelling out the surface is critical to prevent water ingress through gaps or weak points.

Step 2: Applying Polymer-Reinforced Waterproofing

A key innovation to stop damp, is using polymer-reinforced cementitious coatings, such as Safeguard TS+. These coatings are specially designed for below-ground applications. The polymer binds the cement, prevents micro-cracking, and creates a microporous layer that repels water, allowing the wall to “breathe.” This property is crucial for managing trapped moisture and reducing the risk of future damp issues.

The application involves two coats, with 2 to 4 hours of drying between each coat. The colour change from blue to brown indicates readiness for the second coat, ensuring complete coverage and long-term protection.

Step 3: Choosing Advanced Solutions for Severe Cases

In cases of significant water penetration, membrane systems offer an alternative to tanking slurries. These systems create a cavity behind the membrane for moisture to drain into a channel, which can be pumped out. This approach is ideal for basements facing persistent or high-volume water intrusion.

Step 4: Using Breathable Materials for Finishing

For finishing, high lime plaster is an excellent choice. Its breathability allows it to absorb and release condensation, acting as a buffer for moisture. This makes it particularly suitable for damp-prone areas. Additionally, it resists salt ingress, preventing surface deterioration.

Effective damp-proofing requires careful preparation, advanced materials, and the right techniques. Whether using tanking slurries, membrane systems, or breathable plasters, each method addresses specific challenges. Following these steps, homeowners can safeguard their properties and ensure a dry, durable living space.

Try This Before You Spend Money On Damp Problems

ThermoPro TP49 Humidity Meter
amzn.to/4ifYLcm
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Addressing Damp Problems with Practical Solutions

Damp problems are a common concern for homeowners, with many rushing to costly remedies without fully understanding the root cause. Surprisingly, most of these issues stem not from structural defects but from condensation—a manageable and often overlooked problem. By addressing the basics of humidity control, homeowners can save money and protect their property.

Understanding Condensation

Condensation occurs when warm air laden with moisture comes into contact with cooler surfaces, such as walls or windows, causing water to accumulate. This phenomenon is frequently mistaken for structural dampness, leading to unnecessary expenses on damp-proofing measures that fail to resolve the problem.

Monitoring Humidity Levels

A simple, affordable solution lies in measuring humidity levels within the home. For as little as £5, a small humidity sensor can provide valuable insights into whether a household is at risk. Ideally, relative humidity levels should stay below 60%. Prolonged exposure to higher levels encourages mould growth, damaging walls, furniture, and health.

Cost-Effective Solutions

Investing in a dehumidifier can provide immediate relief if high humidity is detected. These devices create a healthier indoor environment by removing excess moisture from the air. Additionally, improving ventilation—by opening windows or using extractor fans—can drastically reduce condensation buildup.

Observational Techniques

Homeowners are encouraged to check each room’s humidity levels, as conditions can vary significantly within the same property. For instance, seldom-used rooms may retain lower humidity due to natural drafts, as demonstrated with single-glazed sash windows. Contrary to modern practices, such ventilation can be beneficial.

Assess your home’s humidity before committing to expensive treatments. By addressing condensation with affordable tools and methods, you can resolve damp problems efficiently and sustainably, ensuring your home remains a comfortable and healthy space.

Stop Damp For Good, The Easy Way

▶ quick-garden.co.uk
Experts in wood living solutions, garden cabins, rooms, annexes & garages

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VIDEO LINKS

Kingspan insulation guide
youtu.be/Nj9GquTUtvM

Roof types
youtu.be/i41oW85zPm8

Cold Roof Specs

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Shown in this video:

quick-garden.co.uk/single-wooden-garage-with-a-shed-silvia-f-plus-34mm-cladding-6x6m-20×20-36m2.html

Single Wooden DIY Garage With A Shed SILVIA F PLUS (34 mm + Cladding), 6×6 m (20’x20′), 36 m²

quick-garden.co.uk/single-wooden-garage-with-a-shed-silvia-f-plus-34mm-cladding-6x6m-20×20-36m2.html

SILVIA F PLUS is perfect for anyone looking for a spacious single DIY garage with space for storage.

This model has two rooms with separate entrances – a 21 m² parking spot and an 11 m² shed right next to it.

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CHAPTERS

00:00 Intro
00:45 Foundation
01:13 Base Rail
02:00 Panel Assembly
03:07 Roof Joists
03:51 Insulation Base
04:08 Roof Line
04:53 Cavity
05:39 Roof Fixing
06:05 Roller Door
06:22 Door Options
06:47 Insulation
07:16 Membrane
07:42 Roof Lining
08:54 Parapets
09:23 Window Fitting
09:57 Guttering
10:28 Exterior Panels
10:48 Parapet Trims
11:40 Finished Job

TOPDON Thermal Imaging Cameras
▶ amzn.to/4i9pkji

Ask us a question
▶ skill-builder.uk/send

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Guide: Fixing Dead Zones in Underfloor Heating

This guide provides a step-by-step approach to diagnosing and resolving dead zones in an underfloor heating system.

Step 1: Identifying the Problem

To detect cold spots in your underfloor heating system, walk barefoot over the flooring to sense any uneven warmth. For a more precise identification, use a thermal imaging camera, such as a plug-in device for phones, to map the pipe temperatures visually.

Step 2: Diagnosing Airlocks

Airlocks often cause inconsistent heating in one or more circuits. These issues are more likely to occur in systems with manifolds installed at uneven levels. To prevent airlocks, position the manifold higher than the underfloor circuits if possible, and ensure the system is vented properly during installation.

Step 3: Flushing the System

Locate the manifold valves to prepare for flushing. The fill valve, usually at the top, introduces water, while the drain valve at the bottom expels air or debris. Attach a garden hose to the fill valve for high-pressure water input and a drain hose to the bottom valve to flush out debris. One at a time, flush each circuit to clear any airlocks, sediment & fix any dead zones.

Step 4: Using Boiler Pressure

Open the boiler’s fill valve to pressurise the system as an efficient alternative to using hoses. Close off all circuits except one, and let the water flow through that circuit. Repeat the process for all circuits to ensure they are completely debris-free.

Step 5: Adjusting Flow Rates

After flushing, restore balance in your heating system by resetting the flow rates for each circuit. Consult your recorded flow rate settings and adjust the valves to achieve a consistent flow rate of approximately 2 litres per minute per circuit or as specified for your system.

Step 6: Maintenance Tips

To maintain your underfloor heating system, flush it every few years to remove buildup and sediment. After flushing, add an inhibitor solution to prevent corrosion and sludge formation. Regularly monitor the flow meters to ensure consistent heating across all circuits and avoid dead zones.

Why and When to Power Flush Your Heating System

A power flush is an essential maintenance procedure for central heating systems, designed to remove sludge, rust, and other debris from pipes, radiators, and boilers. Over time, these deposits can accumulate, reducing the efficiency of your heating system and potentially causing blockages or damage.

A power flush helps restore the system’s efficiency, improve heat distribution, and prolong the life of your boiler.

You should consider it if you notice cold spots on your radiators, noisy pipes, or an overall drop in heating performance. It’s also a good idea to install a new boiler to ensure the existing system is free from debris that could damage the new equipment.

In areas with hard water or systems prone to sludge buildup, regular flushing is recommended every 5-6 years.

Caution with DIY Power Flush

While attempting a DIY powerflush to save money may be tempting, it’s not as straightforward as it seems.

A proper power flush requires specialist equipment, such as a professional-grade pump, which can be expensive to hire.

Moreover, you’ll need to understand your heating system’s layout to avoid causing damage.

Improper techniques, excessive pressure, or leaving valves in the wrong position could lead to leaks, burst pipes, or damage to your boiler.

Older systems, in particular, are vulnerable, as the process can dislodge rust, which might create more problems.

For DIY enthusiasts, using a chemical flush or installing a magnetic filter may be safer alternatives. If you’re determined to do a full power flush yourself, research thoroughly and proceed cautiously.

However, hiring a professional ensures the job is done safely, efficiently, and with the right tools. In most cases, it’s worth the investment for peace of mind.

🔗 Fernox Powerflow Flushing Machine MKIII

🔗 Fernox Power-flushing Filter

🔗 How To Fix One Cold Radiator

Listing Protection for Westminster Gas Lamps
🔗 historicengland.org.uk/whats-new/news/listing-protection-for-westminster-gas-lamps

London’s Gas Streetlights: A Glimpse into the Past

Gas streetlights, iconic symbols of the city of London’s historic charm, have illuminated its streets since the early 19th century. Introduced in 1807 along Pall Mall, gas lighting revolutionised urban life, improving safety and extending activity after dark. By the mid-19th century, thousands of gas lamps lit up the city, becoming integral to London’s Victorian identity.

The gas lamps were initially powered by coal gas, a by-product of coal carbonisation. Lamplighters used long poles to manually light and extinguish each lamp, a task that required precision and routine. With their distinctive uniforms, these lamplighters became familiar figures in London’s streetscape. Over time, innovations such as clockwork mechanisms and pilot lights reduced the need for manual operation.

Today, an estimated 1,500 gas streetlights remain in London, preserved as functional monuments to a bygone era. These lamps, often found in areas like Covent Garden, Westminster, and the Royal Parks, continue to evoke the romance of Dickensian London. They are lovingly maintained by a small team of skilled engineers, ensuring they remain operational despite the encroachment of modern electric lighting.

Beyond their historical significance, London’s gas lamps are celebrated for their unique aesthetic. Their soft, warm glow creates a nostalgic ambience that contrasts sharply with the starkness of LED lighting. For residents and visitors alike, they serve as tangible links to a time when gaslight transformed the cityscape and brought new possibilities to nocturnal life.

Efforts to preserve these lamps highlight their cultural importance. Campaigns and heritage initiatives aim to protect these remnants of London’s industrial history, recognising them as symbols of the city’s resilience and innovation. The gas streetlights of London are not just functional objects but enduring artefacts of the city’s rich and layered past.

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OTHER LINKS

🔗 London Squares Bloody History

The Yablochkov candle arc lamp invented by the Russian engineer Paul Yablochkov
🔗 britannica.com/technology/Yablochkov-candle

A Brief History of London’s Gas Streetlights
🔗 thelondongasketeers.com/a-brief-history

An Interactive Map Of London’s Gas Streetlights
🔗 londonist.com/london/maps/an-interactive-map-of-london-s-gas-lamps

11 Interesting Facts About London Gas Streetlights
🔗 guidelondon.org.uk/blog/around-london/11-interesting-facts-about-london-gas-lamps

Roger shows you how to do a super-easy plaster patching DIY job!

Materials used in this video

🔗 Sika SikaBond SBR+

🔗 Dryzone Hi-Lime Renovation Plaster

🔗 Plastering Latex Rubber Sponge Float

🔗 Spear & Jackson Steel Plastering Trowel

Plaster Patching Repair

Plaster patching repairs are common in UK homes, particularly in older properties where wear and tear or previous repairs have failed. Whether a small dent in the wall or a larger area of damaged plaster, using suitable materials ensures a lasting and professional finish. In this guide, we’re using Dryzone Hi-Lime Renovation Plaster from Safeguard Europe, a versatile and breathable plaster ideal for patchwork in traditional and modern homes.

Hi-Lime Renovation Plaster is particularly suitable for UK properties with solid walls that require a breathable repair material. Traditional gypsum plasters can trap moisture, causing damp issues in heritage buildings or walls that need to “breathe.” Hi-Lime, on the other hand, is a high-quality lime-based plaster that accommodates the needs of these walls while delivering a smooth finish.

Preparing for Plaster Patching

Start by removing loose or damaged plaster from the area, ensuring the repair edges are neat. Clean the substrate to remove any dust, grease, or contaminants. If the underlying surface is highly absorbent, dampen it slightly to prevent the plaster from drying too quickly.

Applying Hi-Lime Renovation Plaster

Mix the Hi-Lime Renovation Plaster according to the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring a consistent, lump-free texture. Apply the plaster in thin layers using a plastering trowel, pressing firmly to achieve good adhesion. Build up the plaster in layers for deeper repairs, allowing each one to dry partially before adding the next.

Finishing Touches

Once the plaster has dried, it can be sanded lightly to blend seamlessly with the surrounding wall. Because Hi-Lime is breathable, it’s an excellent base for finishing with breathable paints or lime washes.

🔗 Simple Steps To Drywall Patching

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