Tag Archives: Fascias

Sustainability – the Key to a Green Future

Soffits, Fascias, Guttering, Weatherboard, Roofline Products, Downpipes, UPVC, Colour-Matching

As a company, Chelmsford Roofline respect and support efforts made by other companies to offer green solutions. Eurocell are one of those companies who have proved their commitment to this end. One of their main objectives is to ensure that their business is as sustainable as possible. They believe that recycling plays a huge role in the battle to reduce carbon emissions and tackle climate change.

Eurocell are dedicated to making sure that every single piece of UPVC waste they create is recycled. They also aim to keep tonnes of UPVC out of landfill by bringing post consumer glazing products back into the production process. This includes window frames, doors, conservatories and building products.

Over the past 10 years, Eurocell have invested £10million into recycling, opened 2 recycling plants and started a nationwide collection service. In the past four years, they have recycled millions of frames and thousands of tonnes of production waste. Most of this is a result of their “closed loop” system, which creates a circular economy. This relies on reclaiming and reusing raw materials so that they stay within the supply chain.

The way it works is that the company remove end of life UPVC windows and doors, which are then taken to their own recycling plants. These plants are located in Yorkshire and Derbyshire, where 46,000 frames are recycled per week! The frames are sorted, shredded, granulated and micronised, and a process called ‘extrusion’ begins. This forms the material into new profiles which are used to fabricate new window and door systems.

The process is extremely sustainable, ensuring that waste is reused time and again. This ethos is one of the reasons that Chelmsford Roofline incorporate Eurocell products into what we do. Another reason is of course the exceptional quality of the products.

New & Replacement Fascias, Guttering Repairs, Joists, Roof Beams, Rafters, High Quality, Domestic & Commercial

Carbon Capture & Storage is Coming

Soffits, Fascias, Guttering, Downpipes, Weatherboard, Roofline Products, UPVC, Colour-Matching

Carbon capture and storage (CCUS), is set to become a reality in the UK, as the first round of licensing sites are offered. This is the process of capturing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from industrial producers. These include heavy industry like steel and cement, resource power plants and hydrogen production. After being separated from other gases, the CO2 is then compressed and stored in underground geological formations. It may also be used to create commercial products. CCS can also be used to produce clean hydrogen, another important technology. CCS reduces emissions from off-grid hydrogen production that uses gas or coal gasification.

Sites offered in this round include areas off the coast of Aberdeen, Teesside, Liverpool and Lincolnshire. There has been significant interest in CCS schemes, which could mean strong competition to win licences. Chief executive of the North Sea Transition Authority (NSTA) Andy Samuel said: “This is an important day on the path to net zero emissions. “In addition to the huge environmental benefits of significantly reducing carbon dioxide emissions into the atmosphere, the facilities will provide opportunities for many thousands of highly-skilled jobs.”

He went on: “Carbon storage is going to be needed across the world. There is growing investor appetite and we are keen to accelerate development of the carbon storage sector so that the UK is well-positioned to be a global leader. “The NSTA is ready to work with industry, government, regulators and others to deliver these exciting projects at pace.”

Estimates suggest up to 100 carbon dioxide (CO2) stores may be required if the UK is to meet its target of reaching net zero by 2050. The schemes would see CO2 emissions from industry, transported by ships or in pipelines. They are eventually stored offshore, deep underground in geological formations. Organisations must apply for a licence within 90 days, with the NSTA due to evaluate the bids after 13 September. New licences will be awarded in early 2023, with some schemes up and running within four to six years of that.

New & Replacement Fascias, Guttering Repairs, Rafters, Joists, Roof Beams, High Quality, Low Maintenance, Domestic & Commercial

Challenging Times for Construction

Soffits, Fascias, Guttering, Downpipes, Weatherboard, Roofline Products, UPVC, Colour-Matching

The official findings of the Office of National Statistics, are that construction experienced an r-shaped rebound in output from the pandemic. This was assisted by the industry’s major effort to return to work after the first shutdown. Output rebounded 12.7% in 2021, and latest figures show that construction activity has overtaken pre-pandemic levels. Indications are that despite inflationary pressures, this growth trend will continue, perhaps though at lower rates. Total order levels near the end of 2021, jumped to 9.2% higher than in the previous three months.

The most recent data shows construction inflation at 6.2%, although timber, concrete and steel exceed the all-industry rate. The highest price inflation rate of all the industry sectors, was visited on new housing. Group chief executive at procurement body Scape, Mark Robinson, said: “December was characteristic of a year in which the construction industry largely overcame the odds; particularly in relation to rising Omicron cases, labour and material shortages.

“But, with the final Covid restrictions set to be lifted soon, concerns around rapid and sustained inflation – furthered by soaring energy costs – have no doubt taken its place and look likely to pose a sustained threat to growth prospects in 2022. “Mitigating the impact of these inflationary pressures will require extensive, ongoing dialogue and collaboration between clients, contractors and their supply chains – qualities that frameworks aspiring to the ‘gold standard’ must embed.

He added: “Crucially, it’s important that payments are prompt and that any increased cost burden continues to be shared, rather than passed on to the supply chain. These firms are most vulnerable to cashflow challenges, but critical to the delivery of projects.”

It’s been a challenging time for many with issues including supply, materials and costs. Rhinos Plant Hire have machinery, tools and equipment available for projects throughout London, Essex and farther afield. Hiring your heavy plant machinery can often be more cost effective than purchasing.

New & Replacement Fascias, Guttering Repairs, Rafters, Joists, Roof Beams, High Quality, Low Maintenance, Domestic & Commercial

Is Fire Safety Training Compulsory in the UK?

Soffits, Fascias, Guttering, Downpipes, Weatherboard, Roofline Products, UPVC, Colour-Matching

Any business or establishment who have more than one employee or volunteer, should ensure there is some fire training carried out. This is a legal obligation, and everyone on the team should participate in a fire safety training course. New employees should also be familiarised with your company’s fire safety process, plus escape routes during their induction. The training can be carried out in house by a reputable company who offer this form of training such as Fire Logistics Limited. Employers need to make sure that staff know the procedure if fire breaks out, and ideally training of newbies, should be repeated during the first month of their employment. Yearly refresher training for all staff is wise once a year, and a record kept.

The importance of fire training cannot be underestimated, and can potentially avoid loss of life and damage to property and stock. Most training covers three main areas:

The Fire Action Plan, informing employees and others of the procedure should fire break out. This is included in the risk assessment, and employees need to be fully aware of all points.
There will be information on the elements of combustion, what poses a fire hazard and why.
Participants need to know the types of fire, and different ways of dealing with each, which can vary significantly. The various kinds of extinguisher will be explained and the kinds of fires they are used for, also how to use them safely.

Personnel must be made aware of how to raise the alarm should they discover fire, they should know the evacuation procedure and location of escape routes, exits and assembly points. These training courses are invaluable, and have proved extremely helpful for many businesses, especially during worst case scenarios.

Fire Logistics Limited offer an extensive program of training including tailored fire safety training courses, basic fire awareness and fire warden training to the highest standard.

New & Replacement Fascias, Guttering Repairs, Rafters, Joists, Roof Beams, High Quality, Low Maintenance, Domestic & Commercial

Slate or Artificial Slate Tiles?

Soffits, Fascias, Guttering, Downpipes, Weatherboard, Roofline Products, UPVC, Colour-Matching

Most people know that one of [if not the] most important parts of our home is its roof! Over the years different materials have been used as roofing, such as timber, thatch EPDM and metal. Most have had a modicum of success, but none are as effective as slate tiles. Slate is the favourite, and has been used in this way for centuries, there is even artificial slate now. A range of shapes and colours means a more bespoke solution too for all house styles.

Natural Slate Tiles

Quarries in Europe, Africa, Asia and America produce natural slate in a variety of shades like anthracite, grey, brown, green and blue. The stone is processed to create thin tiles. Some prefer natural slate roof tiles because : –

They are incredibly long lasting
They have an authentic look
Are extremely weatherproof
Resistant to extreme temperatures
Virtually maintenance free
Lighter than roof tiles

The small imperfections present in natural slate tiles only adds to their uniqueness for many. They have a few downsides though mainly that they cost more than other options, and some people don’t like the imperfections. They generally take longer to apply, and a greater amount are usually required.

Artificial Slate Tiles

Cheaper and very versatile are artificial slate tiles, usually made from fibre cement and offering a wide choice of colours. These roofs can look exceptionally streamlined as each tile is identical. This neat and tidy appearance is desired by home owners in places like Maldon and Colchester who want a particular look. They are also favoured by architects due to the ability to tailor the result and produce a selection of roof designs. The advantages of these roofing slates are : –

Decreased price
Wide colour and design choice
Pretty effective against extreme weather
Can be laid in a range of original ways

The disadvantages however include a shorter life, and a less natural look.

Guttering Repairs, Rafters, Joists, Roof Beams, High Quality, Low Maintenance, Domestic & Commercial

Stay Safe with Electricity

Soffits, Fascias, Guttering, Downpipes, Weatherboard, Cladding, Roofline Eurocell, UPVC & Colour-Matching, Chelmsford

There is now a campaign aimed at those who work with electrics, whether new to the job or more experienced. The initiative has been launched by Scottish trade association ‘Select’, and runs under the banner ‘Work dead safely: Stay alive’.An animation, infographic and brochure, have been created to point out the negative consequences of not isolating safely while working. Understandably, the term ‘isolation’ makes us immediately think of the problems with Covid 19, although in this case we are talking about electrical measures. Observing correct isolation procedures is something that will keep you safe while carrying out electrical work.

The dangers of not isolating properly can’t be overstressed, with numerous cases of electricians burned, scarred or even killed. Many of these accidents could have easily been prevented if more care had been taken. The advice includes ‘Ten steps to safe isolation’, and offers strict guidance in a field that can be both dangerous and complex. Apprentices and others training within the sector may be ignorant of certain safe practices, but even electricians with years in the business often make unwise judgements.

Contact with electricity can cause heart attacks, and severe burning of the skin or even internal organs. The Select organisation continually try to hammer home the message about being careful and performing the required checks. They hope their information is shared far and wide, perhaps saving that one person who could have been injured. The message is simple, before carrying out electrical work ensure that the current or supply is cut off and separated from source. Figures show that when best practice is observed, accidents and fatalities are cut drastically.

It is also essential to ensure that when working in Chelmsford, any electrical tools or equipment being used are functioning properly. Power tools should be serviced and maintained regularly, or hire your tools, access equipment etc from specialists such as Rhinos Plant Hire.

New & Replacement Fascias, Guttering Repairs, Loft Ventilation, Effective Against Damp & Rot

Weatherboard Cladding for Homes in Hertfordshire & Essex

Weatherboard, Cladding, Roofline Eurocell, Soffits, Fascias, Guttering, Downpipes, UPVC & Colour-Matching

Some of the areas we offer our services include Bishops Stortford, a historic market town in Hertfordshire. Bishops Stortford is not that far from Central London, and according to the ‘Sunday Times Best Places to Live in the UK’ is ranked as a great place to live. A review of the town by the Halifax Building Society was glowing, and it was rated as one of the best places to live in all of the south east of England. This rating was based on things like income, life expectancy and exam results.

Bishops Stortford’s town centre has it’s own unique character and sense of history, while still having all the usual popular shops. A variety of garden centres available also gives the impression of many beautiful, cared for gardens. There are places of recreation and relaxation such as Sworder’s Field and Castle Gardens. These public spaces are scheduled to undergo a transformation in a £2m project to combine and enhance both areas. A number of favourite bars and restaurants adorn the town, and a building which used to be the 17th Century Hawkes Brewery, offers cocktails and live music.

Another location we frequent that has people queuing up to live there for several reasons is Great Dunmow in Essex. Similar to Bishops Stortford, Great Dunmow is known for its individuality, which seems to be a key factor for a ‘des res’! Also a thriving and charming market town, Great Dunmow has advantages such as proximity to Stansted Airport, and the town draws many people who enjoy shopping in the historic surroundings. There is a surprise around every corner from the specialist sausage shop, to the Doctor’s Pond so named after the local doc who bred leeches there!

Chelmsford Roofline, specialise in Weatherboard Cladding of the highest quality, professionally installed for superior results. Call us on 01245 861168

Fascias, Guttering Repairs, Loft Ventilation, Effective Against Damp & Rot, High Quality, Low Maintenance for Domestic & Commercial

Raining indoors?

Soffits, Fascias, Guttering, Downpipes, Weatherboard, Roofline Products, UPVC, Colour-Matching

The impressive new home of BBC Wales cost £120m and features state of the art technology, there is just one problem, when it rains the floor is strewn with buckets! This prompted one tabloid newspaper to rather cruelly call the organisation the ‘Big buckets corporation’! The building, which sits in Cardiff’s Central Square, took four years to build and is one of the most expensive structures in Wales. Red faced BBC bosses had insisted that the move to Cardiff would eventually save money. The opening of the building was hailed a historic day, until the heavens opened, putting a dampener on the proceedings [scuse the pun]!

The former [and drier] home of BBC Wales was in Llandaff, for over 50 years, and will be knocked down and sold for housing developments. Work on the new 155,582 sq ft building started in 2015 and was completed earlier this year. It features cutting edge internet Protocol technology for TV editing and output along with camera control. Fortunately the leak has not affected the running of the BBC in this building, which is quite fortunate. A BBC Wales spokesman said: ‘As with any new building, the occasional issue can arise and we’re working with the developer and their contractors to remedy the situation.’

Joking aside, this situation highlights the importance of a sound roof and its accompanying guttering, soffits and fascias. Water will find the tiniest weak point at which to gain entrance to a building, and can wreak havoc. Damage by rain will very quickly escalate, so that the problem becomes extremely difficult to resolve. It can result in mould and ruined furniture, carpets etc. The BBC were pretty lucky too, as water or damp can cause damage worth thousands to expensive electrical equipment.

We see this sort of situation all too often at Chelmsford Roofline, which is a shame as it is easily avoidable. Call us for advice on 01245 861168

New & Replacement Fascias, Guttering Repairs, Rafters, Joists, Roof Beams, High Quality, Low Maintenance, Domestic & Commercial

Eurocell Survey Findings

Soffits, Fascias, Guttering, Downpipes, Weatherboard, Roofline Products, UPVC, Colour-Matching

Leading UPVC manufacturer, distributor and recycler of building products Eurocell, recently produced a revealing report. The research found that there was generally too much emphasis on the creation of homes with little regard to supporting infrastructure. Study participants included private renters, home owners and social housing occupants. 69% of all questioned believed that there was not sufficient consideration given to the provision of health, education and sports facilities. They were of the opinion that these areas were continually overlooked during the construction planning process.

32% of people questioned thought that a lot more could be done to help develop doctors, hospitals and dentists, and 31% felt that way about nurseries and schools. More parks should be provided according to 28%, and additional leisure, sports and craft centres would be favoured by 26%. Facilities such as restaurants and cafés should be prioritised said 21%.

As many as 55% of respondents felt that fast construction of homes is a negative where community spirit is concerned. 44% of those asked complained that doctors surgeries etc were not extended in order to accommodate both new and old communities. To address these imbalances, 37% thought that local residents should have significant input on planning decisions. Greater collaboration between planners and service providers was suggested by 36% along with other factors.

Professionals contributing to the report included architects and developers within the industry. The Queen’s speech Christmas 2019 offered hope and raised expectations regarding infrastructure investment.

Eurocell manufacture high quality UPVC glazing and roofing products including guttering, soffits and fascias. Specialists like ourselves prefer to use reputable brand names such as Eurocell, to ensure customer satisfaction.