Housing January/February 2026

System FASSAFl0or

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Welcome

Updated national design guidance sets a clear benchmark for well-designed neighbourhoods, ensuring new developments are wellconnected to local shops and services.

Aimed at shaping how the next generation of neighbourhoods are built, the guidance sets out how new homes should reflect modern life – from space to work from home to flexible layouts that adapt as families grow and cater for every stage of life.

Working together, councils and developers will use the guidance to make visible improvements for residents, including calmer streets with less traffic to improved green spaces. New builds will be expected to address and adapt to climate change, with minimum standards for adequate shade and minimising potential flood risk.

Now in its second iteration, the guidance encourages all parties to support local jobs and amenities by design – ensuring local shops and services like GP surgeries are within walking distance.

As part of its approach to support smaller developers bringing forward much need homes and to set realistic expectations on larger developments, the government is intending to create model design codes – set to be launched later this year - with clear rules to create successful places.

Building on wider planning reforms, the guidance forms part of the new rules-based system where developers meeting clear standards can move quickly from plans on paper to spades in the ground.

Chris Williamson, RIBA President, said the update should have a positive impact on our future homes and neighbourhoods:

“It's encouraging to see the guidance taking a holistic approach to good design, emphasising the importance of accessible amenities and green, high-quality spaces, while acknowledging the vital role of local context and culture.

“The unique skills of architects will be crucial in bringing this guidance to life. We look forward to continuing to work alongside the Government and sector to shape places that truly meet people's needs."

Paul Groves Group Editor

paul.groves@tspmedia.co.uk

The Trends for Exteriors colour collection sees Fassa Bortolo bringing together Italian design sensibility, technical performance, and an intuitive understanding of modern façade aesthetics across products including RX 561 and the wider render and coating range.

Grosvenor House, Central Park, Telford, TF2 9TW T: 01952 234000 | F: 01952 234003 www.tspmedia.co.uk | E: info@tspmedia.co.uk

The Trends for Exteriors palette responds to contemporary architectural movements while remaining grounded in timeless principles.

Read the full article on page 16-17 to learn more.

Industry declares Warm Home Plan a qualified success

In response to the Government’s Warm Homes Plan the industry has given a broad welcome to the planned additional funding for green energy measures. But it is concerned that significant gaps still exist within the plan and greater focus is required on key areas, such as more to address the health impacts of fuel poverty and poorly insulated homes.

The announcement did incorporate proposals such as targeting those on lowincomes, accelerating clean heat, battery storage and the creation of retrofitting jobs. But concern remains that further measures have still not been forthcoming that would have provided a much more comprehensive package.

David Barnes, Head of Policy and Public Affairs at the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), said: “Improving energy efficiency at scale will be critical for the UK Government to meet its wider net zero ambitions and reduce consumer bills. However, we believe these targets will only be met if there is a significant investment in skills and training.

“The importance of a trained and competent workforce advising

and carrying out energy efficiency installations cannot be understated in light of recent, well-documented failures that have resulted in severe defects and low consumer confidence.

“Installing and maintaining evolving technologies requires a well-trained workforce, otherwise we risk having systems which do not provide maximum benefit for the consumer.

“To succeed, the Government must ensure the Plan is delivered in close consultation with the construction industry. Historically, issues with schemes have arisen when industry has not been engaged, while stopstart approaches and sudden funding withdrawals have further stunted progress and confidence.”

Simon McWhirter, CEO of UKGBC, said the plan represents a vital and necessary step towards delivering comfortable, affordable and future-proofed homes and buildings across the UK.

“UKGBC has long issued a clarion call for a long-term national strategy to tackle the challenge of retrofitting all our homes

SHC secures planning permission

Sheffield Housing Company (SHC) has recently received planning permission to develop 41 new homes in Shirecliffe, marking a significant step forward in addressing the housing needs of local people. The new development will feature a mix of one, two, three and four bedroomed houses across the vacant housing sites on Musgrave Road, Crumpsall Drive, Crumpsall Road and Miles Road - designed to cater to a range of people and needs.

SHC is Sheffield City Council’s joint venture development company, with private developer Keepmoat and Great Places Housing Group. It was established in 2011, with an ambitious target of building 2,300 brand new mixed tenure properties on a total of 23 sites by mid2026. The tenure of the homes is being considered, with SHC looking into all options to deliver affordable homes where possible on its sites.

and commercial buildings at scale, and we are pleased to have worked alongside industry and government to help shape its development,” he continued.

“We welcome the ambition for a solar ‘rooftop revolution’, low interest loans to help households wean themselves off volatile fossil fuels, and the focus on protecting low-income householders. By harnessing abundant solar energy and heat pump technology to both heat and cool buildings, the plan will help futureproof against rising bills and our rapidly warming climate.”

Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, commented: “Focusing on the now, the task will be delivery. The new Warm Homes Agency must get up and running quickly to coordinate programmes and consumer protections, with procurement routes that give SMEs a fair chance to win work. The creation of a new Workforce Taskforce is also an important step. If the plan is to succeed, the Government must give industry a genuinely stable pipeline: multi year funding, a clear timetable, and certainty over future standards and regulations. Consistency will be essential if small builders are to invest in skills."

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MPs call for fraud investigation into insulation scheme

Households left with defective homes by government’s failed energy efficiency installation initiative may still be exposed to unaffordable repair bills.

In a new report on the catastrophic scheme which left more than 30,000 homes with defects, the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) finds a system with serious failings at every level.

The National Audit Office found last year that 98% of external and 29% of internal wall insulation installed up to mid-January ’25 were defective, leaving immediate health and safety risks. Given the likely role of fraud that the PAC has found in the poor-quality installations, the report also takes the unusual step of recommending government refer the issue to the Serious Fraud Office (SFO).

Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, Chair of the Public Accounts Committee, said: “I have served on the Public Accounts Committee for twelve years. In all that time, a 98% failure rate in a public sector initiative amounts to the most catastrophic fiasco that I have seen on this Committee.

"Indeed, our report finds the project was doomed to failure from the start. Government behaved inexplicably in redesigning a similar scheme which was working reasonably well into a highlycomplex number of organisations with siloed responsibilities, which did not respond to failures anything like quickly enough to prevent damage being done to people’s homes.

“Potentially thousands of people are now living with health and safety risks in their homes, and despite government’s

Pioneering new cohousing neighbourhood

A planning application has been submitted for a distinctive new neighbourhood at Northstowe that brings together two cohousing communities with market and affordable homes in a landscaped setting designed by Mole Architects.

This unique development will deliver 145 homes across four compact urban buildings and represents a national first: two cohousing communities

delivered side-by-side as part of a planned new town. Across the neighbourhood, 40% of homes will be affordable, including Affordable Rent and Discount Market Sale.

The proposals are the first major project from the new joint venture between TOWN and community-focused housebuilder The Hill Group, announced earlier this year.

protestations we have nowhere near enough assurance that they are not financially exposed to unaffordable bills to repair the defective works.

"All involved in the system must now move at far greater pace to make good. The public’s confidence will have rightly been shaken in retrofit schemes given what has happened, and government now has a self-inflicted job of work on its hands to restore faith in the action required to bring down bills and reduce emissions.

“Finally – this Committee’s remit is financial scrutiny. We are not a law enforcement body. The sheer levels of non-compliance found here make it clear to us that these matters should be referred to the Serious Fraud Office, and our report recommends as such.”

Futurebuild and UKCW London to unite

In a landmark move for the UK construction sector, UK Construction Week London and Futurebuild will come together from 12th–14th May 2026, creating a new national platform for the built environment at Excel London.

The collaborative co-location will form the UK’s Built Environment super event, designed to reflect the full scale, complexity and ambition of an industry facing unprecedented change.

Together, the events will bring 25,000 built environment professionals, 600+ exhibitors and 700+ speakers across 10 dedicated stages under one roof - making it the largest and most comprehensive construction event in the UK calendar.

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BSR becomes standalone body in landmark step

The Building Safety Regulator (BSR) has officially moved to a standalone organisation, paving the way for the creation of a single construction regulator - a key recommendation of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry.

The move from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) to an arm’s-length body under the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, represents a significant moment for the built environment.

Originally established in 2021 in response to the Grenfell Tower tragedy, BSR’s full powers came into force under the Building Safety Act 2022. Having benefitted from the expertise of the HSE to set up and establish the foundations required for a new regulator, today’s transition signals a renewed commitment to putting residents at the heart of everything BSR does.

As a new organisation, BSR will work towards establishing a single regulator by promoting competence and higher standards. It will drive the vital culture change required by everyone working

in the built environment to support this government’s ambition to build more, safe homes, and remediate those which are unsafe.

The move to standalone status is underpinned by a significant ‘operational reset’ in BSR’s role as the building control authority for higher-risk buildings.

Following the introduction of its Innovation Unit and new efficiency measures, the regulator’s operational delivery is fast improving. This progress demonstrates a commitment to combine regulatory experience with industry knowledge to target guidance and education where it is needed most.

Lord Roe, Chair of BSR, said: “This is a decisive and important step in strengthening building safety and a milestone that marks our evolution into a standalone regulator. While the creation of BSR in 2021 was a watershed moment, today is about looking forward to a single construction regulator that brings coherence to a once-fragmented system. “We will know we are successful when residents

acknowledge we have made the built environment safer.

“Today is about continuing to support homes being built safely while fulfilling our primary mission: ensuring we are all building better and living safer, together.”

Charlie Pugsley, Acting Chief Executive Officer of BSR, said: “This is a significant new chapter for BSR, with a clear signal that while we must continue to focus on improving our operational delivery for both new build homes and occupied HRBs, our mandate extends far beyond high-rise oversight to a broader responsibility for safety and standards across buildings in England.

“By driving professional competence and refining regulatory guidance, we can ensure a holistic approach that spans from initial design through to lifelong building management.

“Our commitment to robust enforcement and cultural transformation serves a single, vital purpose in 2026 and beyond - restoring resident confidence and trust in the built environment.”

NHBC honours top UK site managers for raising standards

The UK’s top site managers have been recognised for their dedication to raising standards in home building after winning the most highly regarded competition in the industry.

The Pride in the Job Awards 2025, organised by the National House Building Council (NHBC), celebrate site managers’ commitment to building homes of outstanding quality.

Announced at London Hilton on Park Lane, the Pride in the Job 2025 Supreme Award winners are:

• Small builder category winner – Chris Jones of Robertson Developments Limited for his work at Tregenna Lea in Camborne

• Medium builder category winner – Steve Walker of C G Fry & Son Limited for his work at Poundbury NEQ in Dorchester

• Large builder category winner –Lee Dewing of Taylor Wimpey North Yorkshire for his work at Oaklands in Kirklevington, Stockton-on-Tees

• Multi-storey category winner –Nigel Smith of Darren Smith Homes for his work at East-Thorpe Court in Mirfield, Kirklees

• High-rise category winner – Dickson Pang of St James West London for his work at Westmont in London

Now in its 45th year and widely considered the ‘Oscars’ of the housebuilding industry, Pride in the Job has become the benchmark for exceptional site managers. Judging for the coveted awards is rigorous, with assessment across six key areas: consistency, attention to detail, leadership, interpretation of drawings and specifications, technical expertise and health and safety.

With circa 8,200 entrants from all four corners of the UK, the competition is split into five categories: small, medium and large builders, plus multi-storey for projects up to seven storeys and high-rise for projects more than seven storeys.

Commenting on the Awards, Cassandra Codling, Senior Regional Director at NHBC said: “Congratulations to all the 2025 Pride in the Job Award Supreme winners and runners-up. They are an inspiration and should be very proud of the quality of new homes they are delivering.

“Thousands of outstanding site managers have made their mark on the industry in the 45 years Pride in the Job has been running. This continued focus on excellence is vital to support the Government’s 1.5 million new homes target and to ensure that all housing is built to the quality owners and occupiers should expect.”

01942 717 100 info@wall-systems.co.uk

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Moisture Open System – Breathable design reduces risks of damp and mould.

Thermal Efficiency – 0.034 W/(m·K) thermal conductivity provided by the main insulant.

Sustainability – 60-year design life, fully recyclable materials, and RockCycle waste recovery.

Compliance – Supports the requirements and recommendations of the BEIS best practice guide and PAS 2035.

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STUDENT LIFE REIMAGINED WITH LIGHT-DRIVEN DESIGN

UMEUS Noli offers 700 student and young professional homes where compact apartments meet daylight-filled interiors, and generous community spaces. The project demonstrates how micro-living can feel spacious.

The Accordion Houses has been acclaimed for its rhythmic zig-zag façade, the building carefully adapts to Frederiksberg’s urban fabric, echoing the proportions and material warmth of Copenhagen’s historic red-brick blocks while carving out green courtyards and planted terraces within.

Each apartment is compact yet flooded with natural light, thanks to the building’s sculpted form and custom bay windows. Replacing traditional double-layered “Russian windows” typically used for noise-exposed façades, these bay windows incorporate built-in benches that allow silent night-time ventilation, maximize daylight through single-layer glazing, and create cozy, social niches where residents can sit, read, or enjoy city life.

This solution addresses a common challenge in north-facing microapartments: providing generous daylight and far-reaching views that a conventional window wall would not allow.

The bay window naturally becomes the apartment’s focal point, inviting residents to gather, socialize, and feel at home, while the traffic outside serves as a lively urban backdrop rather than a distraction. The development emphasizes communal

living. Shared public courtyards and rooftop gardens provide spaces for both relaxation and social interaction.

The transparent ground floor, with step-free access to the outdoors, hosts cafés, study areas, flexible meeting spaces, and a fitness centre, fostering encounters among students and with the broader Frederiksberg community. The building is set back from the busy

Åboulevard to create a generous planted buffer zone, shielding residents from traffic noise while providing pleasant green views even from the lower-floor apartments. Integration into the urban context is enhanced by connecting the building directly to the green cycle path, allowing students to cycle straight from the basement out into the city with easy access to a number of universities and educational institutions.

The two volumes of the UMEUS + Noli complex are joined only at the ground floor by a transparent entrance, carefully aligned with the axis of the opposite street to allow views through the development. This positioning introduces a sense of openness and lightness, softening the overall scale of the otherwise large building.

Harmonikahusene represent the first phase of a larger master plan for the Frederiksberg City Campus, also designed by EFFEKT, which includes the large student housing complex, Ny Prins Henrik Skole (designed by Holscher Nordberg) along Rolighedsvej, as well as a sports hall and green spaces in between. With outward-facing functions, the campus is designed to engage with the wider city and to become a lively, carfree, green urban space.

RETROFIT REMAINS A SIGNIFICANT SECTOR FOR HOUSING

Despite the continued focus on new-build, retrofit and refurbishment of existing properties is still a major focus for both manufacturers and industry stakeholders.

A new insights paper from the National Retrofit Hub, Health, Place & Retrofit: Findings and Recommendations for Change, argues that retrofit must be understood as a place-based approach that shapes health, wellbeing, and everyday life, not simply a building upgrade.

The paper builds on challenge themes identified in the National Retrofit Hub’s State of the Nation report published in 2024, which found that current definitions of retrofit are often too narrow. While reducing carbon emissions, tackling fuel poverty, and lowering energy bills remain essential, the report highlighted that these framings do not always reflect what matters most to people in their homes and neighbourhoods: health, comfort, and day to day quality of life.

The retrofit agenda is one that many in the industry continue to champion over new-build and manufacturers are also seeing significant opportunities.

Mitsubishi Electric has announced a major update to its Ecodan R290 air source heat pump range, placing a strong emphasis on greater flexibility around R290 protection zones to make installations simpler, clearer and more practical for installers—particularly on constrained and retrofit sites.

The changes reinforce Mitsubishi Electric’s position that Ecodan R290 is the future of low-carbon heating, while removing unnecessary barriers that installers have highlighted when working with flammable refrigerant systems.

Following a detailed technical and safety review, Mitsubishi Electric has lifted certain restrictions within the R290 protection zone that are no longer considered to pose a safety risk. As a result, the company has amended its Ecodan R290 ASHP Installation Manual to reflect this increased flexibility.

Mitsubishi Electric’s Product Marketing Manager, Joanna Crown, said: “The Ecodan R290 is the next generation

of heat pump technology, and we are committed to making the transition as straightforward as possible for installers and customers. By introducing greater flexibility around protection zones, investing in specialist training, and reducing the cost of entry with a lower price on the 5kW unit, we are removing barriers and giving the market confidence that the future of low-carbon heating is here now.”

Mitsubishi Electric will continue to work closely with installers and industry partners to ensure Ecodan R290 heat pump installations are practical, safe and commercially viable, supported by clear guidance, specialist training and competitive pricing.

Retrofit wall insulation solution

Ecological Building Systems, a leading provider of natural building solutions, has developed a new internal insulation system, Retro EcoWall A1, which is ideal for upgrading the thermal performance of existing buildings with traditional solid stone or masonry walls.

Retro EcoWall A1 is a complete internal insulation system developed by Ecological Building Systems. It combines layers of Diasen Diathonite Thermactive.037 lime and cork insulating plaster, with breathable mineral adhesives and Redstone Clima Redboard Pro, calcium silicate thermal insulation, allowing the system to achieve different U-values depending on the required performance level. Lower U-values reduce heat loss, support energy efficiency and improve overall comfort within the building.

The system is particularly well suited to taller buildings, where fire performance is critical. Every component carries an A1 non-combustible classification, which means the full internal build-up also achieves an A1 fire rating. This provides a reliable solution for increasing thermal performance in buildings where strict fire safety requirements apply.

A central element of the system is the Redstone Clima Redboard Pro, manufactured from natural calcium silicate using lime and sand. The board can absorb up to 4.7 times its own weight in water and remains lightweight and easy to handle during installation. Its capillary-active and hygroscopic behaviour allows it to regulate moisture effectively, helping manage humidity peaks and contributing to healthier wall conditions while maintaining vapour openness and stable thermal performance.

Neil Turner, Technical Manager at Ecological Building Systems in the UK, explains: "With our latest internal solid wall insulation solution comprising A1 fire rated components, our customers can have

greater reassurance and peace of mind knowing the Retro EcoWall™A1 system meets the highest fire safety standards. By adjusting the number of layers and thicknesses of the materials used, we can achieve very low U-values for our customers, in order to further enhance the energy efficiency of their projects.”

Setcrete enable swift refurbishment

Paul Barlow opted for Setcrete subfloor preparation products to prepare and smooth a damp subfloor screed ahead of the installation of LVTs throughout the ground floor of his Cheshire home, including an open-plan kitchen-living area, dining room and hallway.

Moisture tests indicated that the recently installed heated screed was not yet dry enough to proceed directly with the flooring installation without risking excess subfloor moisture attacking

adhesives and floorcoverings and potentially causing floor failure.

To overcome the problem, builders applied Setcrete Rapid Set DPM to the subfloor, creating a barrier between excess subfloor moisture and the floorcovering. This enables the floorcoverings to be installed without waiting for the subfloor to dry naturally, an advantage in fast-track building programmes. The product is applied in a single coat and cures in as little as three hours.

After priming with Setcrete Acrylic Primer, Setcrete 2K Pro floor levelling compound was applied throughout the entire 60m2 area to create a level and smooth surface for the receipt of the floorcoverings.

The product is suitable for application at thicknesses between 2-30mm over subfloors including sand/cement screeds, concrete, granolithic, terrazzo, asphalt, steel, epoxy and polyurethane resins, ceramic and quarry tiles prior to the installation of new floorcoverings.

It is walk on hard within 90 minutes and ready to receive floorcoverings within 4 hours. It can also be applied directly over old well-bonded adhesive residues, avoiding the need to mechanically remove them, saving further time in these instances.

SHAPING THE FUTURE OF FACADES: FASSA BORTOLO’S TRENDS FOR EXTERIORS COLOUR COLLECTION

Colour is one of the most powerful tools in exterior design. It defines character, enhances architectural form, and influences how buildings are experienced within their surroundings. With the launch of its Trends for Exteriors colour collection, Fassa Bortolo brings together Italian design sensibility, technical performance, and an intuitive understanding of modern façade aesthetics, setting a new benchmark for exterior finishes across products including RX 561 and the wider render and coating range.

Developed in Italy by Fassa Bortolo’s design and technical teams, the Trends for Exteriors palette responds to contemporary architectural movements while remaining grounded in timeless principles. The collection draws inspiration from natural minerals, urban landscapes and Mediterranean tones, offering colours that sit comfortably within both traditional and modern settings. Soft neutrals, warm earth hues, and refined greys are balanced with deeper, expressive shades, allowing designers to create façades that are subtle, bold or quietly confident.

At the heart of the collection is RX 561, a high-performance acrylic-based exterior coating known for its durability, weather resistance, and aesthetic consistency. The new colour range enhances RX 561’s design potential, enabling smooth, uniform finishes that retain depth and vibrancy over time. Carefully formulated pigments ensure excellent colour stability, helping façades maintain their appearance even when exposed to UV radiation, moisture, and fluctuating temperatures.

The Trends for Exteriors colours are not limited to a single product.

The palette has been developed to work cohesively across a selection of Fassa Bortolo exterior renders, coatings, and systems, offering continuity throughout the façade build-up. This system-led approach simplifies specification, ensuring that colour choice does not compromise performance, compatibility, or long-term durability.

Italian design heritage plays a key role in the collection’s development. Rather than following short-lived fashion trends, Fassa Bortolo focuses on colours that age gracefully and complement architectural form. Each shade is designed to interact with light and texture, enhancing surface depth and material quality. Whether applied to contemporary housing, commercial developments or renovation projects, the palette supports architectural intent rather than overpowering it.

From a practical perspective, the Trends for Exteriors range reflects real-world application needs. Colours have been selected with consideration for heat absorption, surface stability, and uniform application, supporting consistent results on site.

This is particularly important for large façades or complex elevations, where colour variation can undermine the finished appearance.

Sustainability and responsibility are also integral to the collection. Fassa Bortolo’s exterior products are developed with a focus on durability and longevity, reducing the need for frequent maintenance or replacement. Longlasting colour performance contributes to sustainable construction by extending the lifecycle of façades and preserving visual quality over time.

Ultimately, the Trends for Exteriors colour range represents more than a design update. It is a considered response to how buildings are designed, built, and experienced today. By combining Italian aesthetic intelligence with technical excellence, Fassa Bortolo provides architects and contractors with the freedom to express creativity while maintaining confidence in performance.

With RX 561 and complementary exterior products, the new colour collection enables façades to do what they do best: protect, perform, and inspire - long after the scaffolding comes down.

To find out more information on our new Trends for Exteriors colour range or other Fassa Bortolo render products, email info.fassauk@fassabortolo.com or call 01684 218305.

Fassa Bortolo - Enquiry 8

TRENDS FOR EXTERIORS

THE FIRST GLANCE SAYS IT ALL: THAT’S WHY IT MUST BE MEMORABLE

An exclusive selection of colours for exteriors, ranging from lighter to darker tones offering the maximum expressive freedom.

Fassa introduces new forms of expression thanks to its outdoor colour palette, offering inspirations in line with the most modern trends, so that the right combination can always be found both for those looking for high-impact multicoloured harmonies and for those who favour understated, elegant tone-on-tone.

Available in 350 colours, including 150 new tints

Find the perfect shade in historic building rehabilitation projects or to navigate the creative freedom of entirely new construction work

TO FIND OUT MORE about Fassa Bortolo and its range of render systems and building products. Visit www.fassabortolo.co.uk or call 01684 218 305

DRAYTON’S PROVEN VALVE SOLUTIONS FOR MODERN HEATING SYSTEMS

As one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of heating controls, Drayton continues to be a trusted name among specifiers, delivering robust valve solutions designed for both performance and ease of installation.

Drayton’s comprehensive valve range includes motorised valves and thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs). Manufactured in the UK for UK homes, every product is developed with practicality, longevity and energy efficiency at its core.

Drayton’s motorised valve range has been engineered to meet the demands of today’s zoned heating systems. Available in both 2-port and 3-port configurations, the range supports Twin and Multi Zone S-plans as well as Bi-Flo Y-plans, providing specifiers with the flexibility required across a wide variety of installations.

Offered in 22mm and 28mm sizes, Drayton motorised valves feature industry-standard dimensions and wiring, alongside convenient ‘snap-on’ actuators to simplify installation and future maintenance. With system repairs and replacements firmly in mind, the valves have been designed to minimise disruption while delivering long-term reliability. The result is a durable, easyto-fit solution that performs consistently throughout its service life.

Thermostatic radiator valves play a crucial role in delivering efficient,

responsive heating systems, and are mandatory in new homes under Part L of the Building Regulations. Drayton’s extensive TRV range is built on decades of engineering expertise, combining proven design with innovation to meet the evolving needs of specifiers. From established best-sellers to practical entry-level solutions and newer autobalancing technology, Drayton’s TRV ranges is designed to support reliable performance, simplified installation and improved system efficiency.

The evolution of a best-seller

In 1992, Drayton launched its original TRV4 Classic, and has since continued to grow the range with the introduction of Chrome, White and Anthracite colourways. As a result of its high quality, renowned design, compact size and clean lines, Drayton’s TRV4 range has become one of Britain’s best-selling thermostatic radiator valves.

The Classic and White models are Class 1 rated for efficiency by the European Valve Manufacturers Association, placing them among the most energyefficient TRVs currently available – a key consideration for reducing running costs and improving overall system performance.

Each TRV4 is designed with a liquid sensor for responsive temperature control, non-stick internals for smooth operation and a double gland seal to protect against water leakage. A top seal allows the valve to be removed and replaced without draining down the system, while replacement gland seal kits are also available to extend product life further.

Complementing the TRV4 series, Drayton’s RT range offers reliable solutions for both entry-level and midrange applications. The RT212 and RT414 are accredited to BS EN 215 and provide precise liquid sensing for consistent temperature control.

Drayton’s latest auto-balancing TRVs, available in both the TRV4 and RT414 models, represent a significant step forward in heating efficiency.

Once installed and set, these valves automatically regulate flow through each radiator according to system demand, maintaining the correct distribution of hot water regardless of how other valves are adjusted.

Beyond product performance, Drayton places strong emphasis on customer support. Its dedicated team, based in Plymouth and backed by extensive industry experience, is on hand to provide technical guidance and installation advice, ensuring confidence at every stage of the specification and installation process.

Drayton - Enquiry 10

Vetta pipe boxing

Practical & cost effective boxing for social housing

Wherever pipework needs to be concealed, Vetta pipe boxing provides the perfect finish to a project, inside or out, whether it’s a retrofit fire sprinkler, low carbon district heating upgrade or energy efficient heat pump installation.

For quick, simple and cost effective concealment of interior pipework, our Riva and Versa pre-formed and pre-finished pipe boxing saves time and money on-site, as they can be fitted in half the time of site-fabricated alternatives, and no painting required.

Where exterior services, such as gas supply and distributed heating system pipework need to be concealed and protected, our bespoke manufactured Arma aluminium boxing provides a tough and durable solution.

Whatever the pipe boxing project - we’ve got it covered.

Enquiry 11

DIMPLEX QUANTUM: SMARTER CONTROL, LOWER COSTS, PROVEN PERFORMANCE

For more than a decade, Dimplex Quantum has defined what modern electric heating should be. Combining advanced controls, proven efficiency and installer-friendly design, it remains the benchmark in high heat retention storage heating.

Quantum continues to set the standard for intelligent electric heating, bringing together high-heat-retention construction with smart, self-learning charge control. By storing off-peak energy and releasing it exactly when rooms need it, Quantum helps households cut running costs while maintaining consistent comfortsupporting the balance that specifiers are increasingly asked to deliver in retrofit programmes and planned upgrades.

A study has highlighted that Dimplex Quantum can deliver running-cost savings of up to 27%1 compared with older storage heaters, thanks to its advanced insulation, intelligent heat management control and precise energy-use optimisation. For specifiers and housing providers, this provides a proven performance narrative when evaluating replacements for ageing storage heater estates.

Alongside performance, Quantum is designed to provide long-term reassurance. The range is backed by a 10-year guarantee 2 and carries the independent BEAB safety mark, giving confidence that the products meet recognised safety standards.

Control is where Quantum truly stands apart - its intelligent algorithm learns household routines, automatically adjusting heat output to maintain consistent comfort while avoiding wasted energy. Features such as Adaptive

Start and Open Window Detection help optimise efficiency without requiring constant user input.

Through the Dimplex Hub, compatible heaters can be connected to the Dimplex Control app allowing users to manage their heating from anywhere with realtime visibility of performance and energy use. Quick-access functions such as Boost and Away modes make everyday operation simple, while scheduling and remote monitoring give householders effortless oversight of their heating system without unnecessary complexity.

When paired with Quantum’s advanced high heat retention technology, this connectivity takes performance even further. The system stores low-carbon electricity during off-peak periods and releases steady warmth throughout the day - creating a responsive heating solution that delivers lower running costs with effortless control.

Importantly for retrofit projects, Quantum’s casing and footprint are designed to help cover fixing marks left by older storage heaters, reducing the need for additional making-good or redecoration. For project delivery teams, this can help streamline replacements and support a cleaner finish within occupied properties.

“Quantum has become a byword for reliability and smart efficiency,” says Yulia Gillingham, Head of Marketing at Dimplex

UK. “It’s the result of more than a decade of development in high heat retention technology and builds on Dimplex’s 75year heritage in electric heating.

“That history matters - installers know they’re fitting a product backed by years of engineering experience, proven performance and long-term support. Quantum remains the trusted choice because it delivers what professionals value most: efficiency, reliability and confidence in every install.”

Dimplex also backs the trade with training, technical resources and community support through the Dimplex PRO Installer Club. This dedicated hub provides access to product knowledge, updates and practical tools, including an advanced heating calculator to help specify the right solution for each property and support for projects funded by ECO 4 or the Warm Homes Plan. Installers can also benefit from rewards and incentives designed to recognise ongoing engagement and professional commitment.

From single-property retrofits to large-scale housing programmes, Quantum’s blend of efficiency, connectivity and reliability continues to make it the desired choice for smart, future-ready electric heating.

For more information on Dimplex, visit www.dimplex.co.uk.

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Quantum is a modern and stylish high heat retention storage heater which reduces energy bills through its intelligent use of off-peak electricity.

Recognised in SAP for its energy saving potential, Quantum can help improve property EPC scores whilst bringing muchneeded flexibility to the energy grid and supporting the UK’s drive to Net Zero.

Sign up to our accredited CPD course to discover how high heat retention storage can benefit buildings, occupiers and the UK’s energy infrastructure.

AICO LAUNCHES NEW ‘CONNECTED HOME’ CITY & GUILDS ASSURED COURSE

Aico, leading home life safety provider, is proud to announce the expansion of their award winning training courses with the launch of a brand new City & Guilds Assured course: The Connected Home.

Launching this February, the free, full-day course has been specifically designed for landlords and housing professionals.

As the housing industry shifts towards data-driven solutions, this session explores how connected home hardware and software can provide meaningful data and actionable insights to strengthen compliance, protect residents, and support informed, proactive decision-making.

The course has been carefully refined through extensive pilot sessions with industry stakeholders, housing professionals, and internal colleagues.

Feedback gathered during these sessions has ensured the content is both practical and relevant, with a strong focus on real-world challenges faced by housing providers. As a result, the training has been meticulously tailored to meet the sector's specific needs, while ensuring attendees remain up to date with the latest technologies in an evolving legislative landscape.

Bridging the Gap Between Technology and Legislation

The recent introduction of Awaab’s Law has brought increased attention to indoor air quality, damp and mould, and the importance of proactive property maintenance.

With housing legislation evolving rapidly across the UK, connected home technology is becoming an essential

tool for housing providers looking to demonstrate compliance, identify issues early, and improve resident outcomes. Attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of:

• Compliance: Navigating differing legislation and regulation across the UK, including Awaab’s Law, and the requirements defined within these documents.

• HomeLINK Technology: A comprehensive overview of the capabilities and benefits of Aico’s Internet of Things technology.

• Data and insights: Leveraging data-driven insights to enhance efficiency, compliance, and awareness, while maintaining responsible data practices.

This course provides a thorough overview of Aico’s Connected Home Solution, covering everything from theory to practical application.

Participants will be introduced to the HomeLINK Portal, gaining hands-on insight into how to effectively manage their portfolio and monitor data at scale.

• Navigation: Detailed walkthroughs of the Portal, SmartLINK App and Resident App.

• Management: Using Aico’s Case Management system to assist with proactive maintenance.

• Installation: Technical guidance on system installation and device compatibility.

• Future-proofing: Insight into upcoming developments and technologies.

This City & Guilds Assured course offers housing professionals the opportunity to build confidence in connected home technology while a gaining recognised accreditation that demonstrates commitment to professional development.

To register your interest in this inviteonly course, please contact your local Relationship Manager at www.aico.co.uk/contact/

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3000 SERIES

The 3000 Series delivers advanced Fire and Carbon Monoxide detection in a range designed for simplicity, reliability, and the future.

Smart. Connected. Future-proof.

Smarter detection . Stronger protection .

Choose Multi-Sensor or Single Sensor alarms, and upgrade with the Ei3000MRF for wireless interconnection and smart data access via the Ei1000G Gateway Discover

IN RESPONSE TO MARKET CALLS, WETHERBY UNVEILS INTERIA A-RATED INTERNAL WALL INSULATION SYSTEM

Wetherby Wall Systems, part of the ROCKWOOL Group, has launched InteriA, a next-generation Internal Wall Insulation (IWI) system developed in response to increasing demand for enhanced fire safety and compliant retrofit solutions in line with today’s best- practice.

Internal Wall Insulation has long been recognised as a vital measure for improving the thermal performance of solid wall properties, particularly where external wall insulation is restricted by planning requirements, heritage considerations, or site access. Yet, the market has lacked a fully developed solution that can combine high fire resistance with the moisture management now identified as best practice by government guidance.

InteriA has been designed to meet both challenges head on. Constructed from A-rated components, the system offers strong fire performance, aligning with today’s more stringent safety expectations. In parallel, its moisture-open design reflects advice from the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS), which highlights that the lowestrisk IWI solutions are those that allow walls to dry to both sides, minimising the risk of condensation and safeguarding long-term building health.

“InteriA has been developed in direct response to what the industry was asking for: an A-rated, moisture-open internal wall solution,” said Joe Ragdale, Technical Director at Wetherby Wall Systems. “By combining robust fire performance with safe moisture management, it provides confidence for specifiers and housing providers that compliance, resident safety, and building durability are all addressed within one system.”

The InteriA build-up has been engineered with retrofit practicality in mind. A slim profile ensures compliance with UK refurbishment U-value targets using just

100mm of insulation, maximising internal space while delivering a step change in thermal efficiency. For residents, the result is warmer homes, reduced energy bills, and improved comfort levels.

Installation has been designed to be quick and minimally disruptive, making it particularly suited to occupied dwellings and phased upgrade programmes. This ensures that Housing Associations, Utility Companies, and Managing Agents can roll out retrofit schemes efficiently while keeping inconvenience to tenants to a minimum.

Now part of the ROCKWOOL Group, Wetherby Wall Systems combines its UK expertise with the group’s global innovation in stone wool insulation. The InteriA system benefits from this partnership by offering:

• Fire Safety – Built from A-rated, noncombustible stone wool components.

• Moisture Management –Breathable design reduces risks of damp and mould.

• Thermal Efficiency – 0.034 W/(m·K) thermal conductivity provided by the main insulant.

• Sustainability – 60-year design life, fully recyclable materials, and RockCycle waste recovery.

• Compliance – Supports the requirements and recommendations of the BEIS best practice guide and PAS 2035.

For Housing Associations, InteriA provides a reliable way to improve building stock while ensuring resident safety. For Energy Providers, it offers a route to delivering energy efficiency targets and supporting governmentbacked retrofit initiatives. For Managing Agents and Certification Bodies, the system represents a tested, compliant option that reduces programme risk while simplifying quality assurance.

InteriA has been carefully developed from A-rated components to give specifiers confidence today. It marks a significant step forward for IWI solutions, offering a balance of fire performance, moisture safety, and sustainability in one system.

For technical support or project enquiries, contact Wetherby Wall Systems on 01942 717 100 or info@wall-systems.co.uk, or visit www.wall-systems.co.uk.

It’s more

It’s a Marley Solar Roof System.

You may just see a roof. But by specifying a complete Marley Solar Roof System, you can be sure of a secure and robust solution, that also delivers more desirable, energy efficient homes. It’s more than a roof, it’s building to make a difference.

New shower tray from Kinedo

The Kinecity is a cost-effective tray whose looks belie its price. Manufactured from a sheet moulding compound that assures longevity and durability, it features a modern stone look and is cuttable on four sides. Just 26mm thick, it offers a low-entry threshold and features anti-slip treatment as standard.

Available in white only, the good-looking tray comes in a range of the most popular sizes and features a 40mm white waste cover. As with all Kinedo products, the tray is both easy to install and easy to maintain.

Beauflor awarded EcoVadis Gold for sustainability

The cushion vinyl division of Beaulieu International Group has been awarded the EcoVadis Gold medal, recognising its strong performance in sustainability, ethics and responsible business practices.

With an overall score of 80/100, Beauflor ranks among the top 5% of companies worldwide assessed by EcoVadis and the top 2% within the manufacture of plastics products industry. “Our EcoVadis Gold rating reflects excellence across all four pillars: Environment, Labour & Human Rights, Ethics and Sustainable Procurement.”, says Nele Tack, General Manager Beauflor. “It confirms our commitment to continue making meaningful progress in a responsible and transparent way.”

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Kinecity was developed to offer great value for social housing, student accommodation and public buildings.

Excellent stock levels in a UK warehouse can be despatched nationally and supply is both efficient and timely – 24hr turnaround if required.

That same warehouse stocks readily available replacement parts and spares which can usually be despatched on a same day basis.

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IVC Commercial brings value and longevity

With the Zenura collection of sheet vinyl, IVC Commercial can respond to the need for cost-effective floors that enhance the lives of people living in social housing.

IVC Commercial offers the solution to these challenges in the Zenura collection, designed to provide comfort, durability and easy maintenance to living areas in social housing while delivering excellent value for providers. The collection includes four performance levels; Zenura Style, Zenura Luxe, Zenura Ultimate and Zenura Elegance LVS. Each collection features a range of wood plank, herringbone and stone effects to bring a choice of popular and warming homely designs that will appeal to tenants.

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Altro package helps create calming and practical spaces

A range of Altro products have helped create a calming and practical assisted living space for neurodiverse young people. The unique housing concept was created by Bloor Homes and Stockport MBC in partnership with MSV Housing Association and Lifeways care provider.

In the dining and kitchen area, Altro Wood Comfort in colour Aged Oak was specified bringing a biophilic feel into the open areas. The bathrooms were furnished with Altro Whiterock Satins in colour Linen, Altro Whiterock Digiclad (Custom) walls with an underwater theme, and Altro Pisces safety floor. Altro Pisces was also specified for the individual toilet. Altro Wood Comfort provided comfort and sound reduction throughout the house in the bedrooms, sensory room, and hallways. MSV Housing Association, Sara Darwin of Phi Architects and the parent of one of the young adults worked hand-in-hand to create a specification for the build that considered all requirements. This included a connected, welcoming, shared living, dining and kitchen space that could be separated as and when needed, individual homely bedrooms, a calm and soothing sensory room, safe and hygienic bathrooms and kitchen area – all of which were anti-pick, reduced transference of noise and provided ease of cleaning.

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▸ Timber frame construction

▸ Spandrel panels

▸ Modular build

▸ Rainscreen cladding

▸ Render carrier board

▸ High performance dry lining

▸ Tilebacker

▸ Fire resistant floors and ceilings

▸ Passive fire protection

▸ Steel frame construction