Is a garage somewhere to park the car or something more? Many detached and semi-detached UK homes built since the mid-twentieth century feature garages, but the way we use them varies hugely. In recent years we have seen a trend in converting garage spaces into additional living accommodation, such as to create an extra bedroom, especially in properties where the garage is integrated. But the appeal of having a space for vehicles, a workshop, separate home office or for accom

By Paul Trace, Director, Stella Rooflight - When the government launched its latest wave of retrofit initiatives, from the Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) to the Great British Insulation Scheme, the goal was admirable: improve the energy efficiency of the nation’s housing stock and accelerate progress towards net zero. Yet, the recently published audit findings paint a very different picture. According to data analysed by Refurb & Retrofit, an astonishing 92% of external wa

Construction product manufacturer ROCKWOOL has announced the first products to launch from its new global centre of excellence for fire-stopping at Hams Hall, Birmingham. Renowned for its Euroclass A1 non-combustible stone wool insulation, the company has used its deep fire expertise and state-of-the-art manufacturing facility to develop a new in-house fire-stopping range including coated batt, sealants, collars and wraps.   Industry-leading standards   In line with the compa

FP McCann has supplied its thin leading edge interlocking concrete roof tiles branded ”Thin Flat Duo” to a brand-new care facility in Manchester. On completion later this year, the 59-bed “Upland Manor” care home on Yew Tree Lane in Northern Moor, Wythenshawe, Manchester will replace the existing Yewtree Care Home. Client, Lovett Care Ltd in conjunction with Chester based property developer Liberty Care Developments, are building the 3 storey modern facility. Specialist comme

As arguably the best-known retailer of timber furniture across Europe and beyond, Ikea takes its environmental responsibilities; these include the sustainable sourcing of materials, very seriously. It is fitting, therefore, that the creation of the company’s latest store in the UK has featured the conservation of 14 large hardwood windows which had been exposed to the worst of the weather for more than a century.   The Swedish chain’s ESG commitments focus on three key areas

A backlog of applications at Gateway 2 is causing widespread frustration in the early stages of the new building regime. Much of the scrutiny has been focused on the Building Safety Regulator, but the wider industry can play its part in unclogging the system. Marisa Schofield, Project Lead at ITP, explains the steps that can be taken to ensure smoother approval of project applications.   Given the size and complexity of the task, even the most optimistic members of the constr

To accelerate installation and enhance precision of its passive fire protection, Siderise has launched a new advanced Cut Strip Service — delivering ready-to-install, digitally sized cavity fire barriers and firestops for building façades. This innovative offering eradicates cutting onsite, reduces waste, and improves safety, helping contractors to achieve faster, more accurate, and more cost-effective installations. This marks a bold step forward in Siderise’s mission to ‘Go

What are hermetic door systems?  Hermetic door systems, also known as airtight or sealed doors, are precision-engineered to provide an airtight seal when closed. Unlike traditional doors, which may allow the passage of air, dust, and contaminants, hermetic doors are designed to block all external elements from entering or exiting a controlled space. These systems are commonly used in industries and environments where hygiene, safety, or environmental control are critical. Key

SFA Saniflo UK is celebrating a successful show at Screwfix Live 2025, which took place at Farnborough International Exhibition Centre from 26–28 September.  The Saniflo team reported a hive of activity on the stand, which showcased the company’s  innovative product range — including the Saniflo Up macerator, Sanivite+ for kitchens and utility rooms, and the Sanicom 1 for heavy-duty commercial applications. All attracted strong interest from both installers and homeowners. Th

Steel Window Association member, Associated Steel Window Services , is a long-established member of the Steel Window Association and expert in the repair of metal windows, from the earliest wrought iron examples through to contemporary curtain walling. ASWS also undertakes full restoration works to timber windows and doors, architectural metalwork, specialist glazing, bronze windows and shopfronts. Members of the Steel Window Association together offer a UK wide service for

Joanne Bull of Königstone , shares why engineered stone worktops are a smart specification for housebuilders looking to add value and appeal to new kitchens.   The kitchen is where daily life happens; and where first impressions count. The worktop plays a central role in this, setting the tone for quality and style throughout the home.   KönigQuartz Concrete Sand, kitchen design by Qudaus Living Why engineered stone? Often referred to as quartz, engineered stone worktops offe

This year’s National Painting & Decorating Show will put the spotlight on thousands of paints, coatings, tools and application systems designed to extend maintenance cycles, reduce costs, and ensure compliance across public-sector housing and commercial property portfolios. Solutions for Housing and Commercial Portfolios For local authorities, housing associations, facilities managers and other specifiers, the event offers a unique opportunity to see first-hand the latest sol

Now, at 90 years old, Keller Kitchens offers the widest range colours and finishes in the European kitchen furniture market, along with a vast range of cabinet and accessory options, all produced by the most sustainable means possible.   Keller  has delivered a first for the kitchen market; a bio-based kitchen enduura® At this time of year, Keller publishes the Keller Magazine to showcase the new products which will be launched in the January of the following year. 2026 will

Ffestiniog slates from Welsh Slate feature on the Cambrian Railways Building.     A dilapidated railway station building has been brought back from the brink of dereliction with a little help from Welsh Slate.    Some 16,000 of the leading UK manufacturer’s 500mm x 300mm Ffestiniog Blue Grey Capital-grade slates now adorn the roof of the historic Grade II listed Cambrian Railways Building in the market town of Oswestry on the Shropshire/Welsh border.    It has been three year

Building on its well-founded reputation as a manufacturer of cladding support systems and high-performance fasteners, SFS Group Fastening Technology  has developed an advance, user-friendly new system for installing flat panels across both steel and aluminium sub-frames. Amongst the benefits of the patented Center Point System is the fact that it answers the challenge of accurately positioning the self-drilling, double thread fastener at the exact centre of the hole in the pa

Here we celebrate a total of 96 years and the stories behind them. Haddonstone , supplier of quality cast stone to the architectural,...

​A stunning new glamping resort at Pendigo Lake at the NEC is being constructed to offer luxury accommodation options for visitors to the...

Hamworthy Heating, technical experts in commercial heating and hot water products, is pleased to announce the launch of its new and...

The Automatic Door Suppliers Association (ADSA) marked its 40th anniversary year with another hugely successful charity golf day at...

Warehouses on a Dorset industrial estate have received an impressive makeover using Bradite One Can. Half a dozen buildings on the...

ISO Chemie’s thermal insulating and load bearing bracket support system has been put to the (weight) test – and passed with flying...

Yale is pleased to announce the successful release of Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for five of its leading domestic window...

Three Evomax 2 120kW wall-mounted condensing boilers from Ideal Heating Commercial have been installed in cascade at Hayling Island...

Invented in 1966, West Fraser ’s CaberMDF  range is still adorning homes and buildings all over the UK. It could be skirting boards,...