Roger follows James King on his next project, a major loft conversion from The Supreme Finishing Company.
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Our thanks go to James King for letting Roger film this loft conversion series. The Supreme Finishing Company can be contacted by following the link below.
https://thesupremefinishingcompany.co.uk
Dormer lofts are not something everyone thoroughly understands, so here we will look at the pros and cons to help you decide if it could be the way forward for you.
With all the uncertainty surrounding property prices at the moment, there are many people who want to move to a larger home but do not want to take the risk of having to sell their existing home at a lower price. If you are one of these and you need an extra room, a dormer loft conversion could be the answer. These can be ideal because you are not having to increase the footprint of your house and use up part of your garden.
First of all, let’s explain what a dormer loft conversion is. They are basically an extension to your roof, providing an extra room and additional headspace. An ordinary loft conversion can mean that the useable space is limited because of height restrictions, ventilation, and natural light. Dormer lofts get over these problems, but it is always best to use specialists to do the conversion for you. You can learn more about dormer lofts and the types that are available through the linked website; Loft Conversions Wales.
If you want to build an extension to your home, you will need planning permission. However, with a dormer loft conversion, you are not increasing the ground area the property covers, and because of this, in most cases planning permission is not need. Generally, they fall under permitted development rights. There are times planning would be needed such as if:
There are other criteria worth looking at, but if you are unsure, a call to the local council could be wise.
The cost of dormer loft conversions compared to an extension providing the same floor space is much lower. They do cost more than a standard loft conversion, but the better use of your loft area is well worth it. It could be a new bedroom for one or two children or maybe a cinema room or a home office. Its uses will be a lot less limited because of the extra headroom and natural light, and things such as placement of the stairway into it will be simpler.
It has been estimated by one of the largest UK building societies that dormer lofts can add as much as 20% to the value of a home, and they should never cost that much to build. So yes, dormer lofts are cost-effective.
Dormer lofts need more structural changes than a standard loft conversion, so they will take a bit longer, but it will be worth it. The roof will need altering to accommodate the dormers, and the amount of alteration needed depends on the type of dormer you opt for. There are four main types of dormer:
This is something you need to discuss with the experts to find out for sure. Have a chat with dormer loft specialists and explain to them exactly what you hope to gain from the roof extension. They will be able to let you know if what you are after is possible and give you prices so you will have the full picture of whether a dormer loft conversion is right for you and your family.
When looking for a house, we tend to get all sentimental and visualise how we will create a cosy new dwelling for ourselves. However, it’s more important to take a practical approach to buying a home, especially when it comes to electrical checks.
The aesthetics shouldn’t come first. There are a variety of things you need to check before the purchase, and the home’s electrical system should be on the top of your list.
You will do yourself a great service if you determine the type of wiring in the house before you buy it. When it comes to wiring, nothing beats copper conductors. It is best to avoid aluminium wiring as it can be problematic and dangerous.
Some homes built in the 60s and 70s using aluminium wiring, still use it. Aluminium wire can lead to burned insulation on wiring, warm covers on receptacles, and flickering lights. It can be a fire hazard because it can overheat.
In the 30s, knob-and-tube wiring was the standard. Even though this type of wiring is not suitable for today’s electrical needs, some homes constructed as late as the 50s may still use K&T wiring.
When you know what questions to ask, buying a home is much easier. Don’t hesitate to ask the sellers about the electrical panel right from the get go. If you want your appliances and electronics to work flawlessly, you need an electrical panel of the right size.
Older homes often feature 60 Amps electrical panels. A 60 Amp electrical panel may not be big enough to keep up with today’s appliances. Generally, 100 Amps is the minimum acceptable residential service size.
If a panel doesn’t have clear and correct labelling, it’s usually a bad sign. Some electric panel manufacturers have a bad reputation. For instance, FPE and Zinsco are electric panels with well-known and documented issues. If the house you plan to buy has one of these two circuit breakers, or if the panel is below 100 amps, it’s best to upgrade it.
It’s a good idea to review the panel for wear and tear. If there is dark or smoky residue, an electrician will need to replace it.
Each year, around 5300 fires in the US have something to do with electrical receptacles. You should test the electrical outlets for wiring faults with a simple voltage detector. But, first, you need to make sure you know how to use one properly.
Be sure to check whether the outlets are loose and if the cords fit snugly. Outlets and switches should be cold to the touch and they shouldn’t emit any strange noise. Electrical checks on outlets are an important step in determining whether the house’s electrical system is completely safe—and this especially goes for bathroom, kitchen, and exterior outlets.
All outlets that can easily come in touch with water should be GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets. When a GFCI outlet detects an unbalanced current (for instance, power surges during storms) it cuts off power from the source. In dangerous situations, a GFCI outlet can be the difference between life and death.
Every home should have GFCI protection. In some places, it’s even legally required. These outlets should have three-prong holes or “test” and “reset” buttons. If they don’t, you will need to replace them.
Ask the seller whether they have GFCI outlets and when was the last time they tested them. Ideally, homeowners should test their GFCI devices once a month. Be sure to test fans, fixtures, and light switches as well.
If there are wired smoke detectors in the house, ask the homeowners when is the last time they upgraded them. If they are more than 8 years old, you will need new ones.
When checking out your potential new home, you need to determine whether everything is up to code. And a simple “yes” or “no” answer from the current homeowners won’t suffice. Aside from checking out the electrical installations in the house, ask to see the paperwork.
Unfortunately, many homeowners don’t do home renovations by the book. If the seller has done any work on the house, ask them if they can show you the city permits. This document should confirm that everything is safe and up to current standards.
When it comes to electrical wiring and installations behind walls, there’s not much you can do on your own to inspect them. But, electrical permits from the local building department will help put your mind at ease.
Even when you know what to look for when carrying out electrical checks, it can be hard for an untrained eye to figure out whether something is off or not. If you want to absolutely make sure no electrical issue will go unnoticed, hire a home inspector. If they find some issues, they will refer you to a licensed professional for a consultation or to carry out further electrical checks.
Kevin has gone through an extensive home renovation with his son, which he has both.
thoroughly enjoyed, and dreaded every morning. He is now the proud owner of half his dream house (the other half has been waiting for spring). You can read more of Kevin’s work on PlainHelp.
https://skill-builder.uk/10-plumbing-things-to-check-before-buying-a-home
Specialist PPE for highly advanced hearing protection, face protection and communication solutions.
Using high-quality materials, all Hellberg Safety products are developed and independently tested in “real-life” situations for optimal performance to deliver products that are comfortable and reliable in any risk environment.
The SECURE series features everything from standard passive ear defenders available in 3 protection levels to advanced electronic communication solutions.
SECURE ACTIVE allows you to communicate with your colleagues, hear warning signals and other important information while protected from hazardous noise. SECURE RELAX protects your hearing while you enjoy listening to your favourite radio station, while SECURE REACT allows you to listen to AM/FM radio and communicate with your colleagues while still being protected from harmful noise.
The SAFE face protection range offers customised visors solutions for protection against a variety of hazards. The visors and carriers are ergonomically designed to be practical and effective and are fully compatible with the SECURE system.
Getting information on the new Hellberg Safety product range is easy – call the Hultafors Group UK Helpline on 01484 854788, check out the website www.hellbergsafety.com or email sales@hultaforsgroup.co.uk
Following the launch of RGB Building Supplies’ Tools for Africa appeal in January, the builders merchant is thanking trades and the community for helping to donate 15 bulk bags full of preloved tools which have been passed to South West-based charity Amigos.
Amigos works closely with another UK charity called Work Aid, which will now refurbish the donated items before sending them to Africa. The tools will be used by young people so they can learn construction skills and help lift themselves and their families out of poverty.
For the past 13 years the charity has provided vocational learning opportunities at Kira Farm Development Centre in Uganda where young people can spend a year acquiring life-changing skills. This includes training in carpentry and building techniques, with 98% of the graduates going on to full-time employment or starting their own business.
Phil Pugsley, Chief Executive at Amigos, said:
“Winston Churchill once said, ‘give us the tools, and we will finish the job’. It’s no good Amigos training a young Ugandan in carpentry and building if they have no access to the tools needed to put their newfound skills into practice. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has gone above and beyond by turning out their sheds and garages, and to RGB for once again allowing their outlets to be collection centres. Together, we are equipping precious young people with the skills and the tools to transform their lives – thank you.”
Kevin Fenlon, CEO of RGB, added:
“We launched our appeal before lockdown was put in place, so we’re delighted we’ve been able to bring it to a successful close. Amigos does fantastic work in helping young people learn a trade and gain employment and this is the second time we’ve worked with the charity. By simply donating some unused tools, the kind-hearted people in our area have really helped to change the lives of young people in Africa.”
Robin continues working on his kitchen fitting alone while in lockdown, but the good news for the Clevett family is that they are very close to moving in.
Here are the products featured in this kitchen fitting video, let us know if we’ve missed anything out in this list.
Soudal Fix All Adhesive Crystal: https://amzn.to/30JszY0
Medite Tricoya Extreme Waterproof MDF: https://youtu.be/NvlGamh66bE
Armac Martin luxury brass hardware: https://www.armacmartin.co.uk
Milwaukee M18 FUEL 18 Gauge Brad Nailer: https://bit.ly/32RGM7F
Magnetec offer Prime or Rustic grade European oak with a magnetic base, which allows you to access your floor void easily at any time after installation.
Using good quality European sourced Oak and Class E1 Plywood, it will give your office or home a luxurious look and feel.
Many colour options are available including White Smoked, Yellow Natural, Antique Brown, Natural White and Antique Bronze.
The latest innovation in magnetic raised access flooring, Magnetec is the most practical and elegant solution for accessible timber flooring.
Replacement or removal of individual staves is quick and simple using the lifting device, making panel repair a job that can be carried out in seconds.
Installation of Magnetec flooring is twice as quick as using traditional glue or underlay systems, so it saves you time and money.
Find out more about Magnetec bespoke flooring solutions for raised access floors: magnetec.co.uk
James is on a new project with Ian & company and this one is a beast of a loft conversion.
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Our thanks go to James King for letting Roger film this loft conversion series. The Supreme Finishing Company can be contacted by following the link below.
https://thesupremefinishingcompany.co.uk
Lightweight Snickers Workwear Shirts, Shorts and Trousers make working on site a breeze this summer.
Everyone needs to be cool, dry and safe at work this summer – to maintain wellbeing and working efficiency on site. That’s why Snickers’ new Topwear will make work this summer a real breeze!
There’s also brand new LITEWork Trousers and Shorts, plus special offer ‘Two-pack’ 100% Cotton T-shirts. Choose from three different easy-care colour and design options to complement whatever you’re wearing – at work or play.
There’s also new Hoodies, Sweatshirts and Hi-vis ProtecWork protective wear in a range of styles and colours that are super-light and quick-drying with advanced ventilation to keep you cool when it’s warm.
They’ve all got superb, body-mapping designs for an amazing fit, outstanding functionality and long-lasting comfort – all day, every day.
Getting information on the Snickers’ Summer Workwear range is easy. You can call the Hultafors Group Helpline on 01484 854788. You can check out the website and download a digital catalogue at www.snickersworkwear.co.uk or email sales@hultaforsgroup.co.uk
Makita has expanded its XGT 40V Max range of cordless power tools with the launch of four new brushless angle grinders – engineered to deliver the power needed for high-demand applications, with the added flexibility and improved safety of cordless. Also added to the range is the CF001GZ 40V Max ‘Swing Fan’, ideal for keeping cool and air circulating in all seasons.
Makita has added four new brushless angle grinders (GA022GZ, GA023GZ, GA028GZ and GA029Z) to its XGT 40V Max line up. Launched in June 2020, XGT 40V Max is the highest power cordless solution from Makita – offering the high output, durability and fast charge times needed for high-demand applications.
To maximise on-site productivity, the GA022GZ, GA023GZ, GA028GZ and GA029Z have been designed to withstand frequent heavy-duty cutting and grinding. Each model delivers a no load speed of 3,000-8,500rpm and features a variable speed dial, enabling operators to easily control and adjust the speed of the machine, depending on the application.
The machines are available with a slide switch (GA022GZ and GA023GZ) or paddle switch (GA028GZ and GA029Z) depending on preference and the GA022GZ and GA028GZ have a wheel diameter of 115mm and the GA023GZ and GA029Z both have a 125mm wheel diameter.
The GA022GZ, GA023GZ, GA028GZ and GA029Z also include Makita’s Auto-start Wireless System (AWS), which connects the machine to a compatible dust extractor via Bluetooth. This improves user safety and ensures that when the tool is in use, the extractor is automatically turned on – and when the tool is powered off, the extractor automatically stops.
With safety in mind, the machines feature Makita’s Active Feedback Sensing Technology (AFT), which shuts down the tool to protect the user if the rotation speed suddenly slows down and the Anti–Restart function prevents accidental start-up.
Kevin Brannigan, Marketing Manager at Makita said: “The XGT 40V Max range of tools is the most powerful cordless solution from Makita to date, providing users with the power needed for high-demand applications across a variety of sectors. For improved efficiency, XGT machines all benefit from Makita’s brushless motor and optimised charging process – keeping operators working for longer, disruption-free.”
To make working on site more comfortable, Maita has also added is the cordless, portable CF001GZ 40V Max Swing Fan to its XGT range. The ultra-quiet fan has three wind speed settings (high, medium and low) and delivers a maximum air speed of 120m/min – 190m/min, depending on the setting chosen. The fan can run for up to 730 minutes when using a 2.5Ah battery without oscillation, or 655minutes using a 2.5Ah batteries with oscillation.
The CF001GZ weighs just 3.0kg and has been designed with a large carrying handle for easy handling. The front cover of the fan can be easily removed, allowing for quick and convenient cleaning.
For more information on Makita’s new range of XGT power tools, please visit: www.makitauk.com.
More from Makita on Skill Builder.
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James gets on to the plastering and chats with Roger about his tools and tips (and life).
Our thanks go to James King for letting Roger film this extension project series. The Supreme Finishing Company can be contacted by following the link below.
https://thesupremefinishingcompany.co.uk
In our post-COVID-19 world, more and more activities are moving online, from work to yoga classes, and training is no exception. Certain types of training such as Skills Training Group gas and electrician courses need to be done in person. However, there are many other kinds of training, such as digital skills, marketing, writing, and more that can be successfully done online.
Just like many people have found that working remotely has its challenges, remote or online training can also be difficult in some respects. This kind training requires an even greater degree of discipline, and you must be motivated to apply yourself independently in order to maximise your learning and develop your skills. Here are 7 tips to help you to get the most from your online training.
One of the keys to being successful with your online training is to set up a dedicated study space. Your study environment is absolutely critical: having a calm area where you can focus without distractions means that you will be able to concentrate on learning. Additionally, you need to make sure your study space has a reliable internet connection: there’s nothing worse than your connection dropping out mid-way through a lecture or tutorial!
This doesn’t necessarily mean that you need to study from home, though setting up a dedicated desk in your house or apartment is ideal, as long as you have a quiet space with a reliable internet connection. However, if this is not available to you, you can also find a café, co-working space or library to study from that may offer optimal conditions.
An online course, just like any form of training, you need to know the rules and guidelines. All too often, people will launch into an online course without properly considering the practices and expectations of the course. Take your time to read up on the course guidelines, assessment procedures, and commitment required. Reach out to the teacher or course provider and ask extra questions if anything in unclear.
Make sure you are prepared to commit the required time and energy to the course. It is also important that you turn up fully, just as you would turn up to any in-person course. Give the classes your full attention: don’t browse social media at the same time!
If you want to get the most out of your online learning, it is critical that you choose the right course in the first place. In order to do this, it is important to set your goals and expectations. Think about what you want to achieve through your learning: this may be the ability to qualify for a new job, to further your career in your current position, or to simply learn a particular skill or gain specific knowledge.
Once you’ve established what your goals are, you can use this to determine whether the course you are considering is the right one for you. Will the course help you to meet your goals? If not, you should keep looking. It is also important to keep checking back on your goals and objectives throughout the course, to make sure that you are on track to meet them.
Everyone learns differently. We are all individuals and our brains are wired differently. This means that one particular learning style may work amazingly for someone else but may not be suitable for you. Some people are visual learners, so will learn better by reading information and colour coding their notes. Others are aural learners who find it useful to listen to information and perhaps repeat it out loud themselves, while still others learn by doing things and repeated actions.
Equally, some people learn better on their own, while others learn better in a group setting. If you fall into the latter category, you may find it a better idea to enlist colleagues or friends to sign up for the online course too. You can then get together to review the course work, go over any questions, and reinforce your learning.
Just like a lot of things in life, planning will help you to be more effective in your studies. As the old adage goes: “fail to plan and plan to fail”. Creating a study plan will make sure that you allow enough time to study and help you stick to your commitments. Develop a plan that includes not only your set study commitments such as online classes, but also study sessions. Consider how much time you will need to study in order to successfully complete coursework and absorb the information, while being realistic about how much time you have available.
Once you have created your study plan make sure that you are dedicated and commit to it. If you have scheduled in a study session, stick to it even if no one will know but you if you miss it. Pushing yourself to achieve better results will not only help you to meet your study goals, but this will give you a real sense of achievement in the end.
COVID-19 has proven that, for the most part, people can work fairly effectively from home. Yet far from spelling the end of the office, it will instead permanently alter our perceptions of how we use it and what purpose it serves. Those are the thoughts of IOBAC Ltd CEO, Paul Woolvine who we caught up with recently. He believes that a shift toward a more flexible, agile office has been a long-time coming and only accelerated due to the global pandemic. In his words, “now is a time of opportunity for the built environment; a time to rethink the offices we want in society; and a time to opt for inherently more flexible solutions.”
The combination of an increasing adeptness at working from home, a growing trend toward more agile, flexible workspaces, and the COVID-19 pandemic all points to one question: will the office ever be the same again?
It’s clear that the workplace will have to adapt quickly in the short to medium term to deliver a safe environment that staff can trust as they return to the office. While in the longer term, the demand for better quality physical environments and experiences will increase. Rather than a death-knell for the office, Paul sees this as an opportunity for change, with flexibility sitting at the heart of an evolution of our built environment.
“I don’t believe that home working will replace office-based working permanently,” says Paul. “After all, we’re social beings and while, yes, most people work to earn money, we also work because we enjoy coming together to create ideas and solve problems.”
A US study found that only 12% of workers want to work from home full-time[1] and research published by Vodafone recently seems to demonstrate just how much we value time spent in the office. 40% of those surveyed claimed they miss office jokes and light-hearted chat while working from home. Over one third (35%) said they miss having the company that colleagues bring and bouncing ideas off one another. 22% miss the motivating “office buzz” while 17% miss the grown-up conversation and learning from others.
“We would, however, be naïve to think that we can maintain the status quo when it comes to what purpose our offices serve,” continues Paul. “The pandemic and people’s increasing expectations simply won’t allow it – and rightly so. Office buildings that allow for greater flexibility will be the winners and making offices based more around community than control a key ingredient for success.”
Paul is quick to point out, however, that this trend has been gathering pace over the last several years. “It would be wrong to say that the pandemic has solely brought about these changes. Office design has been moving toward greater flexibility for some time now. The pandemic has only highlighted the reasons for this shift and probably accelerated its roll-out.”
So, what will that mean in practical terms? “I don’t think, as some people have suggested, that we’ll return to 80s-style cubicles. That would be a real regression. Instead, desks in rows may well be replaced by spaces for collaborative working and culture building, such as areas for training, induction, collaborative work, social events, networking, and conferences. Moving forward, these are surely the sorts of activities that will suit offices best. Offices spaces will also become more varied with more spaces to meet, eat, exercise, and unwind.”
And how will flooring help to facilitate this step-change? “Aesthetics always has and always will be a key driver and a range of different top-coverings and patterns to stylishly segregate these different spaces will be vital to achieving that. Business may have a space for relaxing and refreshments, meeting spaces, desks, and quiet spaces all on the same floor. Each of these separate spaces will need its own look and feel and use materials suited to its purpose. Flooring is, of course, a key part of that. A meeting space may need carpet tiles, the social area a timber finish, and the co-working space LVT, for example. It can sometimes be tricky to fit these different flooring materials together seamlessly using traditional installation techniques.
This is where modular flooring and IOBAC’s solutions come in, as Paul explains. “There’s no doubt in my mind that modular flooring is the modern, sustainable way forward for office design. Take our MagTabs. They’re clever little magnetically receptive squares onto which you can affix a whole range of top coverings, from carpet tiles and LVT to ceramic or timber. There’s three core benefits to this technology. Firstly, install time is significantly reduced and there’s no harmful adhesives required, which is a big tick for the environment and business owners’ bottom line. Secondly, repair and maintenance is made easier and cheaper because you can simply peel up an individual floor tile or small section of flooring and repair or replace. And lastly, if you feel like a change or a larger scale re-fit, then you can quickly and easily move flooring around.
“There’s no adhesive; you don’t get stuck with glue and there’s no harmful residue left over. Simply peel the flooring up and re-use or recycle – there’s no contaminated flooring to send to landfill. The base layer that’s left behind is also left completely uncontaminated meaning it’s safe and ready for flooring to be installed right away.
“Let me paint a picture for you. You have a floor of an office building with, say, four different coverings and you want to rebrand the space. Or perhaps for practical reasons it needs to change. Whatever it is, imagine being able to simply peel up those floor coverings like fridge magnets and swap them around. Or, if you’ve got a patterned floor, being able to move individual pieces around to redesign it. And imagine being able to do that in a day, or overnight, without any harmful residue. Just by doing this you can make individual sections of flooring and whole rooms and office floors look brand-new and completely different.”
It’s this flexibility and capability to transform office spaces quickly, inexpensively, and sustainably, that Paul believes is the future of office design. But in the immediate term, he also sees flooring playing an important role in keeping people safe in the office.
“It’s understandably a tricky time for architects, designers, and property managers,” Paul says. “Aspects of office design will undoubtedly have to change to keep people safe, but in a challenging economic climate, many companies may not have the capital to make wholesale changes or buy more space. So, the solution may lie in reinventing; making shrewd changes to existing office space with smart, flexible solutions that can be quickly implemented for the short to mid-term but are also future-proofed.
“There’s likely to be a whole raft of different safety procedures and protocols implemented by businesses all over the world, and they’ll need to get that message across to their employees clearly. Now, we’re obviously well-versed at keeping a keen eye on road markings. It’s also no secret that we spend a huge amount of our day (3 hours, 53 minutes a day, on average) looking down at our phones, often while walking from one place to another.[3] It’s why some cities around the world have adopted pavement lights to catch the attention of smartphone users. Floors and what we put on them will undoubtedly have a crucial role to play in keeping people safe.
“We’ve already seen two-metre distance and one-way markings on the floor used to good effect in supermarkets and public spaces, including offices. But we’ll need to go further in some places and perhaps act more subtly in others. Take commercial office spaces, museums, and libraries as an example. The messaging won’t necessarily detract from the experience of the space, but people will still need to feel safe and comfortable. Colour-coding, one-way hallways, footfall traffic systems, sanitation stations and reminders to wash hands and keep a safe distance (to name just a few) are all things that will need to be clearly signposted. Some may consider floor tape, but this is unlikely to be robust enough to withstand constant footfall. It can also look pretty scruffy. Demarcation that’s integrated into the flooring itself is the safest and most coherent option. It’s also the most aesthetically pleasing and can include company logos and be designed in-line with brand guidelines. What’s more, when that flooring is magnetic a whole host of flooring coverings (LVT, carpet, timber, ceramic etc.) can simply be peeled up and moved.”
Whatever happens in the months ahead, it seems certain that how and where we work will change. And if we’re honest about the shortcomings of previous office environments and embrace innovative solutions like those presented by Paul and IOBAC, then they’ll change for the better. Offices can emerge from this period as safe, stylish, and cost-effective places; places as flexible as the workforces that use them.
Download IOBAC’s whitepaper, developed in partnership with Loughton Contracts, on the need for flexible flooring in the modern workplace here: https://iobac.com/flexible-
Makita has expanded its LXT Range of cordless tools with the launch of the DPB183Z and DPB184Z Brushless Portable Band Saws.
The DPB183Z and DPB184Z offer the high-power and flexibility needed to tackle a wide range of metal-cutting tasks and are ideal for professional tradespeople working across sectors such as electrical, plumbing and metal fabrication.
The compact and lightweight design of the DPB183Z and DPB184Z (the DPB183Z weighs just 3.3kg and the DPB184Z weighs 3.6kg) makes them easy to manoeuvre around tight working spaces. Angled specifically for comfort, the DPB183Z and DPB184Z’s ergonomic handle design has been engineered to ensure ease of use in both horizontal and vertical operation, making these machines incredibly versatile. For stable and secure cutting, both machines include durable, lightweight aluminium housings, with an optional grip handle for even greater control.
The DPB183Z and DPB184Z benefit from Makita’s variable speed control, which allows operators to select the ideal cutting speed for each application simply by adjusting the dial. Constant speed control also provides stable and secure cutting, as the blade speed is maintained.
The twin LED job light with pre-glow function aids operators to accurately position the blade on the cutting line, for a straight, accurate cut. This is also ensured by the adjustable blade tracking, that can be repositioned simply by turning the screw located on the tools’ housing with the hex wrench provided.
Matt Chilton, Product Manager – Tools at Makita explains more: “The DPB183Z and DPB184Z both benefit from Makita’s brushless motor. With no carbon brushes in the motor causing friction, wear and tear is minimised. And, as no energy is lost through heat production, the DPB183Z and DPB184Z can continue to work for longer, maximising on-site productivity. Operators can also select blade speeds of 0 – 3.2 m/s, meaning cutting is fast and efficient.”
The DPB183Z can cut round pipe up to Ø66mm and square pipe up to 66x66mm, and the DPB184Z can cut round pipe up to Ø51mm and square pipe up to 51x51mm. The adjustable stopper plate means that both models can safely cut various sized materials and can easily cut close to walls and ceilings.
To find out more about Makita and its range of cordless machines please visit: www.makitauk.com
Robin is making real progress on the bespoke kitchen now and is assembling the cupboard doors and drawers.
LEGRABOX drawer by Blum: https://www.blum.com
Wood products by EGGER: https://www.egger.com
Cutting by Cutwrights: https://www.cutwrights.com
Roger catches up with James and Ian in his first visit after the lockdown and watches him punch a hole in a Rangemaster Belfast sink.
Our thanks go to James King for letting Roger film this extension project series. The Supreme Finishing Company can be contacted by following the link below.
https://thesupremefinishingcompany.co.uk
#KingBuild #ExtensionBuilding #Rangemaster
Robin is fitting the beautiful kitchen at The Capel Build and he has quite a few trade secrets and tips and tricks to share with you. We’ll probably spread the kitchen phase over three episodes seeing as we have so much material on this subject, we hope you like it!
Robin considered kitchen fitting using Wren Kitchens and Howdens but he just can’t resist a trip to Cutwrights for a bespoke solution.
To celebrate the launch of its new XGT 40V Max battery platform, leading power tool manufacturer, Makita UK, is offering professionals the opportunity to claim a FREE 40V battery (2.5Ah) with selected XGT product purchases via a brand new redemption scheme.
The battery promotion entitles end users to claim a free 40V 2.5Ah lithium-ion battery with purchases of selected products within Makita’s new cordless 40V XGT range. The selected products must include the suffix ‘GD101’, ‘GD102’, or ‘GD103’ and be purchased before the 30th September 2020.
The promotion offers customers a cost-effective way to expand their capabilities with XGT, as a genuine solution for high demand, industrial applications with a simple claim process.
Once a qualifying XGT ‘GD101’, ‘GD102’, or ‘GD103’ product has been purchased within the promotional period from an authorised Makita dealer, the end user customer needs to register their claim within 28 days of purchase, via a dedicated microsite by submitting their details and proof of purchase. On successful application, customers will receive their free gift after 30 days. Claims must be submitted between 1st July and within 28 days of the offer closing on the 30th September 2020.
Kevin Brannigan, Marketing Manager at Makita UK, said: “We are delighted to release a new redemption scheme that celebrates the launch of our new XGT 40V Max battery system. XGT machines offer the same high power associated with corded and petrol machines, but with the increased flexibility of cordless, making XGT the ideal solution for high demand applications.
“We are pleased to offer a cost-effective gateway into our new 40V XGT system so that professionals can enjoy more flexibility with equipment that is durable, reliable and perfect for the job.”
For more information on the promotion, a full list of qualifying products and terms and conditions, visit www.makitauk.com/redemption.
Condensation is one of the most common issues faced by British homeowners. It’s estimated that at least 1 in 5 UK homes suffers from excess condensation, often in the loft space. There are many reasons for this which we’ll discuss further below, but one of the most common causes includes the measures we take to make our homes more energy efficient. Thanks to innovations such as double or triple glazing, cavity wall insulation and so on, your home effectively becomes “sealed up” and cannot breathe as effectively.
Condensation and excess moisture can build up at any time of the year, although it is most common in the Autumn and Winter. The first tell-tale signs of condensation in your loft space include patches of damp, moisture on the insides of windows or unsightly black spots on your walls. In more advanced cases you may also find mould spores developing on linens or other items stored in your loft. If you notice any of these issues, it’s important to tackle them early. Damp and mould present significant risks to health, and when left unchecked, excess moisture can begin to rot away at the timber battens in your roof.
Fortunately, if the right steps are taken in a timely manner, condensation in your loft space can be reversed and these potential issues will be prevented. The first step however is to investigate the underlying causes behind the problem in your home. Only then will you be able to set an effective plan to tackle the issue in motion.
So How Do I Cure Condensation in My Loft?
To fix the condensation issues you may be experiencing, it’s important to understand why condensation occurs. Condensation is a natural phenomenon that occurs when warm, humid air comes into contact with a cold surface. The warm air is unable to retain the moisture it’s carrying and releases tiny droplets of water against the surface.
Condensation isn’t usually an issue. However, if your home is experiencing serious condensation build-up, particularly in the loft space, it can lead to both serious health problems and structural damage. As most homeowners only go up into their attic a few times per year, issues with condensation in the loft space often build up for a long time before being noticed. When you do spot these issues however, it’s vital to get on top of them as soon as possible before they become a serious dilemma.
What Causes Condensation in the Loft Space?
As with even benign condensation, it occurs in your loft space when excess moisture in the air is unable to escape due to inadequate ventilation. There are many reasons why this could be happening in your home.
Loft Insulation
Condensation is a common side effect of installing modern loft installation. Loft insulation has many benefits: increased energy efficiency, reduced utility bills and a more comfortable environment within the home. These advantages are well-documented and can even add value to your property as well as saving on annual energy costs.
However, effective loft insulation will also restrict your home’s ventilation and ability to “breathe”. Your home will be cosier and nicer to live in, but the loft space will become colder, which in turn attracts the warm air from below. When this warm air rises and meets the cold surfaces on the inside of your roof, it will form condensation.
We’ll talk more about ways to fight condensation in your loft space later in this article. However, with regards to loft insulation, one of the best things you can do is install natural insulation made of sheep’s wool. This eco-friendly form of insulation is hygroscopic, which means it’s able to absorb and wick away moisture incredibly effectively, tackling condensation before it becomes an issue.
Over-Filling the Loft Space
Another common cause of condensation is poor ventilation caused by overcrowding your loft space with possessions. Many older properties may only have a few tile vents or no ventilation at all, which means boxes could potentially be obstructing these vents, greatly impacting airflow. More modern roof designs use continuous eave and ridge ventilation, however using the loft as a storage area still isn’t recommended. According to the National House Building Council, “The roof space isn’t intended to be a storage area, so if you do put items up there you could restrict the air flow. The stored items may also become damaged by the condensation.”
Hot Water Tanks in the Loft
Many homes in Britain have their hot water tanks in the loft space. While these aren’t usually an issue, it is worth checking that yours is in good order. If the lid has come off or isn’t properly sealed then the steam it releases will inevitably form condensation and lead to more serious problems. It’s worth checking your hot water tanks annually, particularly just before the colder months when condensation can be an even greater issue.
Uninsulated or Poorly Fitted Loft Hatches
If your loft hatch wasn’t fitted properly or is poorly insulated, then the warm, humid air from below will be able to penetrate the loft space. If your loft space has ventilation issues, this makes it the perfect environment for condensation to form. Once this air builds up, rises and hits the cold inner surface of your roof such as slates or the membrane, it will condensate and form pools. This excess moisture will then lead to damp, mould, and rot.
Day-to-Day Life
Many of life’s daily activities can contribute to condensation by increasing the amount of warm, moisture-filled air in the home. In fact, studies show that an average four person household can release as much as 14 litres of water vapour into the air every day. This can be due to showering or bathing without using an extractor fan or opening the window, as well as cooking, washing up or boiling water without ventilation. Another common cause is air drying wet clothes inside. As the clothes dry the moisture escapes into the air, and if there’s no ventilation it will only rise upwards towards your loft.
How to Avoid Condensation in Your Loft?
Now that you’ve learned about many of the most common causes of excess moisture and condensation in the home, it’s time to learn the steps you can take to reduce the risk of your home developing a serious problem.
Insulation
Often the root cause of condensation in your loft space is down to an imbalance between your home’s levels of insulation and ventilation. Many older properties have minimal or even no loft ventilation as they are so poorly insulated that there’s no need to ventilate the loft. Therefore, as we improve insulation in our homes it’s vital to bring ventilation up to par to be able to cope with the increase in warm air inside the property.
Cooking and Bathing
Installing extractor fans in your kitchen and bathroom, as well as keeping windows open is a simple way to reduce the amount of moisture inside. You should always be aware that any moisture your day-to-day living generates needs to go somewhere and if you don’t allow for this your home may experience a serious issue with condensation, mould, and damp.
Laundry
You should avoid drying clothes indoors on radiators or clothes maidens wherever possible. If you must, make sure the area is properly ventilated with open windows. According to research, drying clothes indoors can increase moisture levels inside by up to 30%.
Changes to Your Roof
Often in older roofs, the original roofing felt will not allow moisture or vapour to pass through. Therefore, it should be replaced with an effective roof breather membrane or vapour barrier. This will, however, require all roof tiles or shingles to be removed. While this is a more involved process, it will help to avoid issues in the future.
You could also consider converting your roof into a “warm roof”. This means moving the insulation from being above the ceiling to between your roofing tiles and the roof battens. This transforms the loft space from being a cold area to a warm one where moisture will not condensate. This will be doubly effective if you use highly breathable insulation such as sheep’s wool.
How to Treat Condensation in the Loft
If you’re already experiencing a problem with condensation in your loft space, it’s important to act fast to combat this issue.
The first step is to check for any obvious signs or issues that may be causing moisture ingress into the roof space from above. This can include cracked or broken roof tiles, cracked leadwork or leaking pipes and guttering.
Then, it’s time to assess the levels of ventilation and insulation present in your loft. Removing any obstructions such as storage boxes from ventilation points is the first stage, as well as ensuring that any items stored in your loft are kept at least 5-10cm away from the walls.
If your loft space is already insulated, ensure it has not been damaged by moisture, pests, or other issues. If it has been, it should be replaced with modern, breathable loft insulation along with a vapour barrier to further protect against moisture ingress and condensation.
Adding Roof Ventilation
Other ways to add ventilation to your roof space include the installation of vented soffit boards, as well as purpose-built roof tile vents.
Vented Fascia, Soffit, Ridge and Eaves Panels
These forms of roof ventilation are used along the roofline to improve airflow and ventilation. By drawing the warm air out, they help to prevent condensation from building up in the loft space. An affordable option for homeowners that come in a wide range of styles, materials and finishes to suit your property. Installing them does take a little work, so it’s best to do this when you’re already undertaking a roofing project, unless fixing the condensation issue is urgent.
Roof Tile Vents
These vents are designed to be installed along with your regular roof tiles. Disguised to match the aesthetic of the rest of your roof as seamlessly as possible, these tiles contain slim vents which allow the passage of air. They are also cleverly designed not to allow any moisture to enter the space below, keeping your loft space clean and dry. These roof tile vents are also available in many different materials and styles, making it easy to match them to your property.
In conclusion, we hope this article has helped you to learn more about the causes and prevention of condensation in lofts and attics. If this is a problem your home suffers from, please don’t delay getting it fixed. As stated, not only can condensation cause significant structural damage, particularly to timber elements in your home, but it can also be hazardous to health.
Author Bio: Roofing Megastore is a leading UK online roofing materials retailer.
Visqueen, the leading manufacturer of gas protection and waterproofing membranes, has launched a new version of its radon membrane to meet the latest British Board of Agrément (BBA) building standards, which come into effect on September 1st this year.
The Visqueen Radon R400 at 0.4mm thick (1600 gauge) is designed to deliver improved puncture resistance, protecting new buildings from the ingress of radon gas as well as providing damp proof protection. Manufactured from an enhanced blend of polymer films and supplied in four-metre wide by 25-metre long rolls, the R400 is available from stock for shipping ahead of the September 1st policy deadline.
Long-term radon gas exposure is the leading cause of cancer in non-smokers and can accumulate to dangerous levels in buildings. New development projects in areas with a high incidence of radon gas must incorporate protection as a part of their build in order to meet regulations and avoid any potential danger to health.
With its greater thickness, the Visqueen Radon R400 meets all the recommendations from the BS 8485 committee for BBA certification of polyethylene membranes for use in all gas control applications.
Phil Bull, General Manager and Sales Director at Visqueen Building Products said: “Radon is an issue for many parts of the UK and Ireland and ensuring the appropriate level of gas protection is essential for building projects and developments in these areas.
“Our new Visqueen Radon R400 membrane is independently tested and delivers the necessary protection against radon, carbon dioxide and methane gas, to meet all the latest building standards.”
About Visqueen
www.visqueen.com
Visqueen, a brand of Berry Global, is the market leader in the manufacture and supply of structural waterproofing and gas protection systems.
Visqueen offers complete support at every stage in the specification and supply chain process. With a comprehensive range of advanced products and a dedicated technical support team of specialists offering specification and design advice and a best in class level of customer service.
Offering the highest level of support to customers, including, architects and specifiers, contractors and merchants – all of the technical team have been awarded the CSSW award (certified surveyor of structural waterproofing), a nationally recognised professional qualification.
More details on the new BBA regulations can be found at: https://www.bbacerts.co.uk/blog/post/minimum-thickness-of-membranes-for-use-as-radon-barriers
