Sika’s Concrete, Waterproofing and Engineered Refurbishment division has launched a CPD module designed to provide specialist guidance on concrete repair and protection.

Modern construction programmes place great demands on products and today’s floor screed systems are no exception, needing to be fast, strong, safe - and able to cope with the rigorous techniques and methods undertaken throughout the UK.

It’s been around for nearly 50 years, but glass-reinforced concrete (GRC) remains an enigma to many architects and contractors in the UK, says James Butler of Pura Facades.

When Plymouth Council wanted to repair, clean and protect their main office building at West Hoe Road, a Mapei concrete repair system finished with Mapei Elastocolor Paint was chosen for its proven durability and performance. Following the successful completion of Opal Villas apartment building across town, the Mapei system was the sensible choice.

The construction industry has a reputation for being one of the biggest polluters; it’s responsible for 40% of the world’s carbon emissions. It’s clear that if we are to fight climate change and promote sustainability, construction will need to clean up its act. One of the best ways of doing so is cutting demand for one of the most common building materials: concrete. The key ingredient of concrete is cement which has a large carbon footprint, even higher than aviation fuel, says Charlie Ayers, Founder of SureCav.

Ravago Building Solution’s Ravatherm XPS X 300 SB high-performance extruded polystyrene (XPS) thermal insulation boards are being used in the construction of R-WALL, a new innovative, government-supported build system, revolutionising how houses are constructed in the UK.

Time is money; a motto that is particularly pertinent to the refurbishment of concrete infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, tunnels and the like. Delays in the repair of these vital transport links not only pile unnecessary stress on the commuting public, but local authorities also face additional expenditure each time a public project overruns; a financial burden that will inevitably be borne by the taxpayer.

Schöck explores a rare case where permission has been granted to demolish a Grade I listed Nash terrace and convert it back to the residential use for which the early 19th century building was intended. One of the key considerations with the new development was to prevent thermal bridging along the parapets.

Recently, the colour grey has become increasingly popular in the design community, displaying on everything from furniture, wall décor, flooring and even the complete exterior of a building.

BCO-award-winning architectural practice, gpad london, has completed a 5705ft² new-build reception extension at Brunel House, Fitzalan Road, Cardiff. The lightweight glass and steel extension juxtaposes the existing Brutalist architecture of the 15-storey mass concrete office building. A new entrance with reception, external landscaping and signage gives the building an enhanced facelift and new brand identity.

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