Wednesday, February 18, 2026
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What is The Future of Software in The Construction Industry?

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Shaking and remodelling the whole industry, through the development of digital technology, constructors can order brick and mortar to finding skilled labour all through mobile technology whilst on the go, a huge game-changer.

But what about the rise and development of software? Changing and developing as time progresses. Through the rise of robotic equipment and BIM modelling, how the construction industry uses construction software will never be the same again!

We take a look at the future of construction software and look at the many different ways we will be working in the future.

VR, Virtual Reality

We have all heard of virtual reality, a simulated experience allowing us to immerse ourselves into another world, time and setting. Allowing us to feel like we are there in that virtual reality, Virtual Reality is one way in the future that those working within the construction industry will be viewing future projects. The ideal tool for training purposes, Virtual Reality can help design, sell and plan future projects while inspiring a new generation of constructors.

3D Printing

Through 3D printing, you can create not just materials, but also models of future projects. By being able to 3D print, computer-controlled layering of materials into a three-dimensional shape, 3D printers have been used in all industries from aviation to dental and footwear. Allowing you to print components to entire models of project buildings, when it comes to pitching and perfecting your next big project, 3D printing can be incredibly useful.

Project Management Software

With the facility to be used not just in construction but other industries also, the benefits and capabilities of Project Management Softwares have rapidly improved. With different software available, Oracle is a top choice amongst many leading building contractors.  With different programs available for a range of jobs, Project Management Software allows teams to design, build and run a construction site with minimal wastage and efficiency. Ideal for those wanting efficiency, transparency and accountability, it is also thought that Project Management Software can make a building site safer.

Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence, also known as AI is used to describe a machine capable of mimicking human functions. Through the growth spurt in technology, Artificial Intelligence has exploded and developed at a frightening speed. From problem-solving, pattern recognition to learning, through the programming of these computers and the use of data, machines can understand and be used for a variety of tasks. From processing information, opening issues to changing orders, AI can improve and aid overloaded and stretched organisations.

Building Information Modelling

One exciting piece of software that the construction industry should look forward to adopting and that is BIM Building Information Modelling. Through the use of drones, robotics, IoT, laser scanning and virtual reality, the construction industry, this tool can also assess data while looking at the latest technology innovations. With the ability to bring together all pieces of information, through the use of BIM, this piece of software can analyse all key components about chosen building materials while able to illustrate the entire building cycle from beginning to end, ideal for highlighting any predicted issues. Perfect for reducing costs and mistakes, different systems and products can run alongside one another throughout different stages of the construction process.

There you have it, the next top software tools that us within the construction industry will be using in time not far from now. With an estimated 100 million people worldwide working within the construction industry, it is thought that by the industry embracing these new construction software programmes a shocking £1 trillion could be saved and added to profit.

With the future of software within the construction industry looking bright, we for one are very excited to see how the construction industry progresses in future years.

Whether it be a company relying on the use of a Project Management Software programme to the increase of 3D printing when planning and developing an exciting new project. Regardless of your expertise or skills, through the use of software and the advances entailed, you too as a company can improve your profit and efficiency by embracing these digital advances.

Tusk Tenon Joint – Robin’s Woodworking Masterclass

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Thanks to Skillshare for sponsoring this video – Sign up via our link and get two FREE months of Skillshare Premium.

Following the success of our scarf joint video, Robin shows you how to create a classic tusk tenon joint.

We’ll have more woodworking masterclass tips and hacks and types of wood joints from Robin Clevett soon.

The Water Level – Best £10 You Ever Spent?

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So we’ve covered spirit levels, laser levels and now we look at the oldest of all level measurement technologies, the water level. How accurate is a water level? Watch Roger and find out.

Quantum Water Level
Level Hose Gauge Set
Silverline Water Level
Silverline Water Level 10m (633586)
As Schwabe Water Level
As Schwabe 12711 Hose Water Level PVC 8 x 1.5 mm 20 m
Faithfull Water Level
Faithfull Water Level 10M/33FT Handyman
Level Hose Gauge Set
Silverline Water Level 10m (633586)
As Schwabe 12711 Hose Water Level PVC 8 x 1.5 mm 20 m
Faithfull Water Level 10M/33FT Handyman
Price not available
Price not available
Price not available
Price not available
Quantum Water Level
Level Hose Gauge Set
Level Hose Gauge Set
Price not available
Silverline Water Level
Silverline Water Level 10m (633586)
Silverline Water Level 10m (633586)
Price not available
As Schwabe Water Level
As Schwabe 12711 Hose Water Level PVC 8 x 1.5 mm 20 m
As Schwabe 12711 Hose Water Level PVC 8 x 1.5 mm 20 m
Price not available
Faithfull Water Level
Faithfull Water Level 10M/33FT Handyman
Faithfull Water Level 10M/33FT Handyman
Price not available

Water will always find its own level, making these very accurate instruments which are used widely throughout the construction and building industries.

Easy to set up and simple to use, they are designed for single-handed use when simultaneously measuring equal heights at two distant points.

A water level is an ideal tool for accurate unsighted room to room measurement or distant levelling when you can’t use a spirit level.

Other applications include working on wall tiling, guttering, landscaping, patios, driveways, fencing and drainage projects.

Water Level Tips

  • If the level is not clear enough for you, a dye could be added to the water to make it easier to see.
  • If the water level is used outdoors in winter, antifreeze can be added to the water.
  • Windscreen washer fluid can also be used for antifreeze qualities and increased visibility.
  • A surfactant such as dish-washing liquid can reduce the surface tension of the water and improve flow in the tube.

So You Want Something More Hi-Tech?

£500 IMEX LX3DG Line Laser Level: https://imextools.co.uk/product/lx3dg-line-laser-level-green-beam/

More on levels with Skill Builder.

Is Your Laser Level Really Level? How to Check

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Roger takes another look at levels, this time it’s the lasers. Roger gets his Bosch GCL 2-15 G green laser level out to make sure it’s still in good working order.

Hellberg Safety – SECURE Active – Active Listening Headsets

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Hellberg Safety specialist PPE products include highly advanced hearing protection products, face protection and communication solutions for personal wellbeing on site.

The SECURE ACTIVE headsets enable workers to communicate safely with colleagues, hear signals and other important information while protected from hazardous noise. The built-in, level-dependent microphones provide perfect directional hearing with an electronic protection system that limits all sounds through the speakers to a safe sound level.

The replaceable headband and ear cushions allow for regular replacement for a long-lasting and high performing product. For optimal safety, communication radios and other sound sources can be connected via the external audio input.

The Hellberg Safety PPE range features the latest advanced technologies, modern design, comfort and quality together with great performance to appeals to all types of professional users in high-risk work environments.

www.hellbergsafety.com

How to Drill Through Tiles Without Cracking Them

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Drill through tiles easily with the help of this short video from Roger which will help you avoid cracking the tiles and it won’t cost a fortune or take very long.

These cost-effective core hole tile drilling kits are perfect for all bathroom and kitchen fittings and also larger basin waste pipes, showerheads and all other service pipes.

Easily drill through ceramic tiles using one of these diamond coated core hole drill bit sets.

ZFYQ Diamond Hole Saw Set
ZFYQ Hole Saw Drill Bits Set, Diamond Drill Bit Set Cutting for Glass, Ceramic, Porcelain, Tile, Marble, Ø6mm-50mm, 15 Pcs
Meccion Diamond Drill Bit Kit
Meccion Diamond Drill Bit Kit Brazing Core Hole Saw Set Extractor Remover Tools Hole Saws Mandrels 6mm - 50mm Set of 11 Pack
Price not available
Price not available
ZFYQ Diamond Hole Saw Set
ZFYQ Hole Saw Drill Bits Set, Diamond Drill Bit Set Cutting for Glass, Ceramic, Porcelain, Tile, Marble, Ø6mm-50mm, 15 Pcs
Price not available
Meccion Diamond Drill Bit Kit
Meccion Diamond Drill Bit Kit Brazing Core Hole Saw Set Extractor Remover Tools Hole Saws Mandrels 6mm - 50mm Set of 11 Pack
Price not available

We shot this for our Horror Shower video last year and thought it needed to stand alone.

When you have completed your tiling and you’re happy with the end result you might be dreading the prospect of ruining that good work when you have to drill the tiles for your bathroom accessories, cabinet, shelves and other fittings.

More on how to drill through tiles

Diamond hole saw video on YouTube showing how to get more cuts.

More on tiling with Skill Builder.

Damp Mystery Italian Style & Nasty Little Leak – ASB #22

Send us your pictures and videos: http://skill-builder.uk/send

Adrian Ling’s bathroom has stained skirting board, swelling and vinyl flooring with bubbling.

Willem from Belgium recently bought his first house in Italy and has lots of issues he needs to tackle including humidity and ugly black mould.

Charles Mitchell asks, do fire bricks contain asbestos?

David Jones has a nasty leak in his locker!

Snickers Workwear – Waterproof Working

You can count on comfort and protection throughout the autumn and winter with Snickers Workwear’s NEW AllroundWork Jackets for professional tradesmen and women.

Stay dry, warm and comfortable by choosing from a selection of water-repellent jackets that will give you basic protection from the effects of light showers with great breathability to ventilate your body if you continue to be active on-site for short periods.

But if you need 100% protection from the rain for long periods on site, check out Snickers’ GORE-TEX® jackets and trousers. These highly-technical garments are extremely durable with a membrane that has over 1.4 billion pores per square cm. They’re 100% waterproof to keep you dry, windproof to keep you warm, and breathable to keep you comfortable all day long

There’s a host of designs, styles and extensive size options so you can select the right jacket for you and your job. There is also a great range of Winter Vests and Bodywarmers, even a Body Mapping Micro Fleece – so you’ll be well looked after all day, every day.

For more information on Snickers Workwear’s ‘Waterproof Working’, call the Snickers Helpline on 01484 854788, check out the website and download a digital catalogue at www.snickersworkwear.co.uk or email info@snickersworkwear.co.uk

High Torque Cordless Impact Wrench from Milwaukee

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This is Robin’s last episode from Dublin and we sign off with a beast of a cordless impact wrench.

The high torque Milwaukee M18 FUEL ONE-KEY ONEFHIWF34 Cordless Impact Wrench is a force to be reckoned with and Albert shows us what it’s all about and how it might just be the best impact wrench on the market.

Milwaukee ONEFHIWF34 Cordless Impact Wrench

Cordless Impact Wrench specs

The M18 FUEL high torque impact wrench with ONE-KEY technology delivers 1627 Nm of fastening torque in a compact size of 213 mm, which gives more access in tight spaces.

The 4 -Mode DRIVE CONTROL allows the user to shift into four different speed and torque settings to maximise application versatility.

Mode 4 bolt removal, provides a maximum nut-busting torque of 2034 Nm then shifts to 750 rpm for unmatched control when removing fasteners.

The integrated blow counting sensor enhances the consistent repeatability of the chosen torque setting.

ONE-KEY tool control enables wireless tool customisation for increased productivity and consistent results.

ONE-KEY tool tracking & security offers a Cloud-based inventory management platform that supports both location tracking and theft prevention.

Three-quarter inch friction ring reception.

Flexible battery system: works with all Milwaukee M18 batteries.

More Milwaukee on Skill Builder.

More impact wrenches from Milwaukee Tools.

Chat with plumber Ty Harnett about Alfie

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Roger has a chat with entrepreneur Ty Harnett about Alfie, his new invention which he hopes will change the plumbing landscape.

https://www.coolag.co.uk

INFO FROM COOLAG IN THEIR OWN WORDS

A faster, more robust and watertight connection for securing fixed showerheads, shower hose wall fittings, wall mounted taps and bar shower valves, wc’s and hand basins.

Eliminate leaks within walls and floors
Prevent pipes from being knocked or drilled
Guarantees perfectly upright shower fittings
DZR brass for exceptional corrosion resistance
Reversible manifold for hollow and solid walls
Dual seal within the wall structure
Interlocking base plate for various applications
Prevents depth planning of fittings or using offset adapters

Alfie has been approved by WRAS (water regulations advisory scheme).
Please refer to The water supply (water fittings) regulations 1999 (England & Wales), The water supply (water fittings) regulations (Northern Ireland) 2009, The water supply (water fittings) (Scotland) Byelaws 2014 when considering point-of-use protection for the prevention of risk of backflow in the design of bathrooms or shower rooms.

#Plumbing #Alfie #Coolag

Milwaukee Cordless Table Saw – Robin’s Site Test

Robin takes a closer look at the cordless table saw last seen in the Dublin review videos earlier this year. After two months of using this saw on site we might not be able to get it back from him.

Milwaukee M18 FUEL FTS210 ONE-KEY Table Saw
https://uk.milwaukeetool.eu/m18-fuel-one-key-table-saw/m18-fts210/

FTS 210 info from Milwaukee:

The ONE-KEY M18 FUEL table saw delivers the power to rip cut at the same feed rate of an equivalent AC saw, with the ability to cut 190 m of 19 mm OSB board on one 12.0 Ah battery charge.

Next generation POWERSTATE™ brushless motor, REDLINK PLUS™ electronics and REDLITHIUM-ION HIGH OUTPUT 12.0 Ah battery pack deliver superior performance, durability and run time in high demand applications.

Rack and pinion sliding fence allows the fence to be adjusted accurately and easily from the front of the saw giving 622 mm of rip capacity.

210 mm blade allows 63 mm depth of cut at 90 degrees.

ONE-KEY tool tracking & security offers a cloud-based inventory management platform that supports both location tracking and theft prevention.

Quick change guard and riving knife allows the user to remove and adjust the riving knife and guard without the need to remove the throat plate.

Integrated carry handle allows easy transportation on and off the jobsite.

Onboard storage for all table saw attachments.

Vacuum adaptor supplied fits directly to all Milwaukee dust extractors.

More Milwaukee Tools on Skill Builder.

Easy DIY Solution to Treat Rising Damp in Walls

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Roger uses one of his favourite products for treating rising damp internally in brick walls.

We show you how to treat damp walls in an old house internally with Dryrod from Safeguard Europe, their latest development in Rising Damp treatment.

Dryrod provides a highly effective damp-proof course even in saturated internal walls. This results in salts in the wall being less mobile and therefore less able to migrate further into the plaster.

More articles on rising damp on Skill Builder.

Check out Safeguard’s website: http://www.dryrods.com

Who Should Project Manage an Extension? ASB #21

Send us your pictures and videos: http://skill-builder.uk/send

Chris Evans is buying a house and wants to fit a new bathroom. He’s watched our videos and wants to make sure the bathroom is waterproof.

David Kilvington has a new combi boiler (ATAG 36kw) installed in his utility room and noticed that if he uses any of the downstairs appliances (taps, washing machine or toilet), that the combi will turn on after the water is shut off. How can he fix this?

Lee Hanson is looking at having a large extension to the rear of his house and has had an architect on board from the very beginning. He had intended to contract the architect to see him through the construction but has struggled through the tender process as many builders and building firms seemed to be pricing themselves out of the job and he didn’t understand why.

#11 ~ Attitude & Work Ethics

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Have you got the right mental attitude and work ethics in the workplace? Roger and Robin, fresh back from their summer holidays, jump back into podcast action and tackle the subject of having the right attitude and work ethics. We’ve worked with some great people and some shockers, some of who are described in this episode. Find out what Roger and Robin are looking for from a work colleague.

Our show sponsor is HB42 the Ultimate Answer to Sealing & Fixing – www.hb42.co.uk

Further reading:

Top 10 Work Values Employers Look For – thebalancecareers.com

Attitude Really is Everything and Here’s Why – workethic.org

Why You Need A Positive Attitude At Work (And How To Be Positive In The Workplace) – buddingoptimist.com

Dunderdon – The Fashion Workwear Brand For Street-smart Looks

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The Dunderdon brand of fashionable workwear is owned by the Hultafors Group UK, which also owns Snickers Workwear.

With a range that includes Jackets, Trousers, Tops, Footwear and Accessories, these are highly technical, street-smart garments for tradesmen and women who want really fashionable working clothes that meet on-site needs but also look good in leisure activities.

Two of the newest jackets include the stylish J56 Vantage Jacket made of highly durable Vantage fabric developed for tough work in rough conditions. Featuring lightweight padding, this rugged garment offers everything you need to look smart at a hard day’s work.

For the up-coming chilly months, take a look at the S27 Polartec Jacket. Made of Polartec® Power Stretch® ProTM fabric, this mid-layer jacket delivers excellent moisture management and 4-way stretch for anyone who’s really active. With handy front pockets and additional features like the Cell phone pouch and thumb openings at the sleeve ends, it’s available in a black/brown and navy/orange colour combinations.

For more information, check out the Dunderdon website at www.dunderdon.com or call the Hultafors Group UK Helpline – 01484 854788.

Theft Awareness for Trades – 4 step Defence

Crime in the UK is on the rise, particularly when it comes to theft. Certain areas in the UK have become more notorious for theft, with London, Sheffield, and Birmingham securing the top spots.

Work vans are often a target for thieves, containing high-value items that can be easily accessed if not properly secured. The first step towards prevention, is theft awareness. Be one step ahead of thieves, protect yourself and your livelihood in 4 simple steps:

  1. Clever parking
  2. Tool marking
  3. GPS trackers
  4. Ensure you insure

Over 70 per cent of workers are worried about the prospect of becoming a victim of theft, and for good reason. Half of the victims of tool theft are left unable to carry out their duties the next day as a result of the crime. Some thefts can even leave victims unable to work for up to two weeks after they have been stolen from.

The detrimental effect that can be experienced by tradesmen as a result of tool theft is huge. Loss of earnings, and having to replace your tools, can leave you in a struggling position. Therefore, it is important as a tradesperson to be an advocate for theft awareness and take all possible precautions to prevent it.

How are vans vulnerable to theft?

Criminals are now thinking of new ways to target work vans and gain access to their contents. Door peeling is a new way that thieves attempt to gain access to the interior of a van. As manufacturers are now using thinner sheet materials on the sides of vans to improve their fuel efficiency, criminals have seen this as a potential point of access.

Another popular modern way for criminals to gain access to work vans is through the method of key fob hacking, a practice involving hacking the remote locking system. In addition to these new methods of gaining entry, attempts are still made to gain access through doors and windows. With all of this information, it can feel like thieves will gain entry to your van no matter what, but there are certain things you can do to help prevent this. Always remember that thieves target vehicles and properties that are easily accessible, so creating a challenge for them can put them off.

How to prevent tool theft: keeping your van secure

“The first step towards prevention, is theft awareness.”

Tool theft is something you need to take seriously to avoid any serious impacts on your business. By following theft awareness tips to keep your tools secure, you are less likely to become a victim of this type of crime. With the rise of door peeling, many van owners are finding ways to fight back. Door peeling should always be taken seriously, but clever parking is a useful solution.

Clever parking means avoiding leaving any vulnerable entry points exposed to criminals. For example, parking close to a wall that blocks access to your side door, back doors, and any thin panelling will make the van more difficult to access. Try to leave as little of the van exposed as possible if you have to park in a public area overnight.

In a recent Evening Standard article discussing car and van theft awareness, GPS trackers were seen as a solution to get your vehicle back if it is stolen. It isn’t only valuable tools that tradespeople need to worry about, the van itself is often more valuable. Having a tracking system installed means you’ll be able to give the police the exact location of the van if it’s stolen.

It can be difficult to get your tools back if they’re stolen. Many criminals steal tools to sell on, and they often do this fairly quickly. Locating your tools can be difficult, even if you see something that you believe is yours on a selling site, you can’t always be sure. Business Insider suggests marking your tools with paint or pen to identify them. If you want to mark your tools in a less obvious way with something that’s difficult to remove, an ultraviolet pen can be a good solution.

Roger from Skillbuilder prioritises Theft awareness by securing his van –
 https://skill-builder.uk/tool-theft-lockdown-is-your-van-secure-enough

Ensure you insure

Insurance is a legal requirement for a work van, but this doesn’t stop van owners from trying to cut corners to get a cheaper deal. It’s important that you give accurate information to your insurance company to avoid any complications if you are the victim of a theft. Always divulge the correct value of the van and any contents when taking out a policy. Although this may increase your premium, it will mean you’ll get everything back if you do become a target of theft.

Is Your Spirit Level… Level?

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I bet you never thought your spirit level might not be level. Roger explains what you need to check and how an uneven level might waste huge amounts of time and money.

Featuring Milwaukee Red Stick.

Impact Driver v Drill – What’s the Difference?

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What’s the difference between a drill and an impact driver? Roger explains the difference and what you need to know.

Bright Idea – Milwaukee Trueview LED Light

Robin loves to be in the spotlight and this range of Milwaukee Trueview LED lights cover every possibility.

Milwaukee products featured in this video.

M18 ONESLDP LED Compact Site Light Charger.

M12 SAL LED Stand Light.

M18 ONESLSP LED Compact Site Light with ONE-KEY.

Where’s Steve?

Roger catches up with an old friend to see what he’s working on. Viewers haven’t seen Steve Farrow since the 35A extension series filmed back in 2006 but he’s still on the tools and working on his daughter’s house.