In September we celebrated e-Xact’s tenth birthday with a slice of cake and a glass of bubbly whilst GS1 celebrated the 30th birthday of the barcode.

How time has flown since the e-Xact service went online in September 1999 following its launch at the BMF’s Malta Conference. At that time around 20 founder supplier members had committed to joining e-Xact and many of these are still subscribers, although takeovers and amalgamations have seen the loss of some names.

In our experience, even after thirty years, people are still confused about the difference between a barcode, EAN code and GTIN and some people still think that e-Xact is an EDI service.

Inside this issue we will try to clear up the confusion – see page 3 for more information.

Barcodes 30 – e-Xact 10

VELUX The world’s leading roof windows

Fermacell Multi-purpose dry lining board

Thermasol Solar Thermal and Solar Photovoltaic

New Suppliers - see Page 3

e-Xact and the BMF are participating in T-ZERO - a project initiated by some of the UK’s leading organisations in the fields of energy conservation and housing (including the CPA, the BRE and The Association For The Conservation of Energy (ACE).

T-Zero is supported by the Technology Strategy Board with a brief to develop novel ways to reduce the environmental impact from existing housing, working towards a future goal of a zero carbon built environment.

T-ZERO provides an interactive web-based tool that puts energy and environmental performance expertise in the hands of the householder, housing stock manager, designer or builder.

e-Xact product data, datasheets and case studies will be employed to enable users to make an informed choice about which prod-ucts they should select.

New Year resolutions!As always, the future direction and development of e-Xact will be geared to the needs of its users. So before the end of the year we’ll be contacting subscribers to sound them out about what they think we should be doing – and how we should be doing it.

In the spring we are planning to hold an e-Xact Open Day when we’ll present our plans for 2010. The agenda for the day will include Case Studies, User Forums and Workshops based on using e-Xact Product Data and other services.

e-Xact joins the T-Zero campaigne-Xact is also linking up with the BMF members database, to provide T-Zero users with access to local merchants who can supply the selected products.

e-Xtract / Autumn 2009 www.e-Xact.net

e-Xtract / Autumn 2009 e-Xtract / Autumn 2009 2 3www.e-Xact.net

When e-Xact was first launched 10 years ago, it was all about updating prices. Today merchant subscribers get much more than a price update facility and the reasons for use are varied.

In spite of a downturn in the construction sector and the gloomy prospects forecast by the CPA, e-Xact has seen considerable renewed interest from merchants recently. However, ‘Why do merchants use e-Xact when they can get information direct from suppliers?’ is a question that is often asked.

The answer is quite simple – they don’t want the hassle of sourcing and manipulating information from multiple sources when they can go to one point of contact for standard format information.

In addition:-

The lack of resource in branch means that there are less ‘free’ hands to chase suppliers for new price lists / weights / codes etc. Often data maintenance gets forgotten, but in the long term this is short-sighted and creates many more costly problems.

More merchants want a trading website, the success of which is greatly enhanced by the availability of images. There is no doubt that this job is like painting the Forth Bridge. Whilst the set-up can be an ordeal, collating and re-sizing images and datasheets and linking them into individual products, ongoing maintenance can be a nightmare. Successful websites change with the addition of new products and deletion of the old. All of this takes time and effort that can be virtually eliminated if e-Xact is used as a web-store.

A number of merchants are using the ‘quieter’ period to review systems and implement new computer systems so that when the upturn comes they are ready and in better shape than ever before. Many choose not to use their old product files but to start from scratch building a clean, comprehensive foundation for the business.

Branch Bros, a 2 branch merchant in Lincolnshire, are the latest merchant subscriber. They are using e-Xact data to help them to create a product file in their newly purchased MAM Systems software. The availability of standard format download files greatly eases this process.

Buildbase are using e-Xact as a source of ‘rich content’. They don’t need to worry about contacting suppliers and requesting images, resizing them and linking them into their website – all this is done for them by e-Xact.

The benefits for merchants are only half the story – enlightened suppliers know how much time and money they save by joining e-Xact and sending information to one place, satisfying multiple customer requests for information. They also know that as part of their subscription e-Xact will cleanse and reformat their information into a standard format that can be used by all merchants.

Interest in e-Xact from suppliers of building materials has also been on the increase with three new suppliers posting their data.

These include:

VELUX Company Ltd :

For over 60 years VELUX has manufactured the world’s leading roof windows.

The entry on e-Xact features many of the new products including Sun tunnels, INTEGRA electrics, VELUX Dormer, new flat roof windows and VELUX solar hot water systems.

e-Xact Product Count : Circa 600 Content Includes : Images, COSHH Data, Technical Specifications and Fitting Instructions

FERMACELL :

Fermacell manufacturers of gypsum fibre board – a high performance multi-purpose dry lining board used in walls, ceilings or floors. e-Xact Product Count: Circa 50 Content Includes : Images, Technical Specification, User Manuals

THERMASOL :

Thermasol is the Trade name for Natural Sustainable Energy Resources Ltd, specialist distributors for Solar Thermal and Solar Photovoltaic.

The company is committed to providing customers with quality products (unique design, Solar Key Mark Approved with Microgeneration on PV pending) at competitive prices, supported by quality service.

e-Xact Product Count: Circa 50 Content Includes : Images, Technical Specification, User Manuals

Visit www.e-Xact.net for more information on these companies.

3 new suppliers

News

Barcodes uncoveredAlthough barcodes had been around for 20 years at the time e-Xact was launched, they were not widely used in the construction sector. Sadly, even today they have still not been universally accepted in the construction industry and there is still a lot of confusion about the difference between a barcode, an EAN code and a GTIN.

To explain: GTIN (Global Trade Item Number) - a 13 digit, unique code that not only identifies a product but also identifies the quantity in the pack i.e. if a product is available as single unit and as a pack of 10 it should have 2 different GTIN codes. EAN code (European Article Number) – the old name for a GTIN Barcode - the scan-able graphical representation of a GTIN

Barcodes were invented in the US and arrived in the UK in the late 1970’s. The first UK use of them at the till was at a branch of Key Markets (Spalding) in October 1979. Initially manufacturers were slow to barcode their products but by 1982, mainly due to the speed with which customers could served, 70% of grocery products had been bar-coded. By 1991 over 5,000 stores were scanning, 10,000 by 1993 and over 20,000 by 1995.

But GTIN’s are not just about scanning a barcode. The unique number enables successful electronic trading. Again the food industry has been much quicker to adopt electronic trading with ordering and invoicing well established. Whilst receiving electronic purchase invoices has proved popular with Builders Merchants, very few manufacturers are getting the reciprocal benefits of receiving electronic orders.

Although it is not mandatory data, at e-Xact, we still believe in the value of a GTIN and over 90% of the products on e-Xact have GTIN’s.

As members of GS1UK (the organisation that allocates GTINs) we can offer help and advice to anyone wanting to code their products - just give us a call.

As e-Xact subscribers it makes sense for us to use the services of e-Xact to hold and manage the image and information library on our behalf. We are planning to develop and extend our use of e-Xact data so that the customer experience is positive.Tony Newcombe (Marketing Manager, Buildbase)

Jewson use e-Xact data to update their back office systems and to provide branches with datasheets.

Having such a wealth of information, all in a standard format makes e-Xact a real winner for us. For suppliers it’s the quickest way to change and add new products on their Jewson product profiles. Richard K Broadley, Product File Manager – SGBD UK

Travis Perkins use e-Xact content on their Trademate website and within their branch

information systems.

The people at e-Xact are always look-ing to add new features, giving us and our suppliers more reasons to use the service and providing an ever increas-ing supply of information.Sean Sinclair, Head of Data Management – Travis Perkins

News

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Ian Brandon (Director, Thermasol - pictured below) summed up their reason for joining e-Xact:

“As ex-Builders Merchants we understand the selling process and the information that merchants need to do this. Our strong customer focus means that we want to make our products as easy to sell as possible with instant access to product codes. Given the nature of the products, which are new to the market, it is vital that we provide the technical literature needed to accompany our products. e-Xact provides us with an excellent route to market for this product information. Also, as a new company, we don’t have a massive marketing budget so access to the free PR and marketing is the icing on the cake.’

Why do merchants use e-Xact?

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e-Xact subscriptions start from as little as £590 per annum. If you would like more information about what you get from a subscription call 01270 875713, e-mail: subscriptions@e-Xact.net or fill in the enquiry form on the website.

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Which merchants?

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Using e-Xact data is no longer a good idea in theory, it is a reality!

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www.e-Xact.net

Masonry reinforcement for collar-jointed walls Masonry reinforcement for collar-jointed walls is the latest new product to be added to the Ancon range. Ancon AMR-CJ is used to tie the two leaves of thin masonry together, so it acts as a single unit. The product consists of flat ties welded to flattened longitudinal wires.

Manufactured in stainless and galvanised steel, AMR-CJ is supplied in a standard width of 175mm to suit a wall width of 215mm comprising of either standard bricks or 100mm blocks.

Ancon offers a free masonry panel design service. A standard design sheet can be downloaded from www.ancon.co.uk, allowing engineers to summarise the individual wall panels requiring Ancon’s attention.

Also available from Ancon are Staifix Wire Balloons - a simple and effective way of keeping chimneys and downpipes clear from nesting birds, leaves and other debris.

Available in six standard sizes - 2½”, 3”, 4”, 6”, 8” and 9”, wire balloons are manufactured from ½” and ¾” galva-nised steel mesh and are supplied in packs of five. They are maintenance-free and no specialist installation is required.

appearance. The shaped spacers in Omega Flow ensure ease of installation and a 5mm joint width; this ensures a larger drainage area than normal impermeable systems. These gaps between the blocks are filled with aggregate chippings rather than kiln dried sand, allowing water to permeate.

Zack Barrett at Brett Landscaping, commented:

We know merchants are seeing increased interest in Sustainable Drainage Systems as consumers follow the new planning regulations.

Consumers thinking about refurbishing are looking to the merchants for the best and most suitable system available to meet their needs. Our Omega Flow paving range can help strike the perfect balance between classic style and responsible drainage systems which will be a big hit within the market.”

Ibstock’s traditional range

measures up for RMI

An added advantage is that since further floors can be built on top of this structure there will be no wastage from stripping off the roof to prepare it for the further build.

Jabroof Type 500 is available in a range of thicknesses from 20mm to 600mm and can achieve U-values ranging from 0.30 W/m2k and 0.10 W/m2k; it can also be manufactured with an aluminum-foil layer to one or both sides, depending on the specification’s requirements.

The environmental credentials of expanded polystyrene have been recognised in the British Research Establishment’s (BRE) Green Guide, which awarded the material the highest A+ rating. It also has a low Global Warming Potential (GWP) and zero Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP). The material is free from HCFCs, non-toxic, easy to handle on site, inert and 100 per cent recyclable.

Bu i ld ing

e-Xtract / Autumn 2009 e-Xtract / Autumn 2009 4 5

Juliet Balconies

from Catnic

The Juliet Balcony has now been introduced to the Catnic portfolio of products for domestic housing - designed to provide a safety barrier in front of French windows, it is a popular feature for apartment schemes or 3 storey townhouses.

The standard range of balconies is available in three classic styles Brecon, Monmouth and Usk and comes in four widths ranging from 1200mm to 2500mm.

Committed to providing a best in class service, Catnic can also manufacture bespoke Juliet Balconies from customer’s drawings and provide details of Catnic recommended balcony installers.

Simpson Strong-Tie continues to expand its comprehensive product portfolio and is now a leading distributor of the LIEBIG anchor bolts and anchoring systems.

With more than 600 product lines, LIEBIG is renowned for its high quality and innovative heavy fastening and anchoring system range.

Simpson Strong-Tie acquired the operating assets of German-based LIEBIG last year and now holds stocks

Ibstock is supporting local builders with the extension of its traditional range of bricks, a collection specially designed to offer a wide choice of sizes, colours and textures to create a refurbishment project in harmony with its local environment.

With new builds at an all time low, the building industry is seeing greater competition in the RMI market which means that having the right products for the job is essential. Ibstock’s traditional range has been manufactured to match bricks produced before metric sizes became fashionable and the range includes 50mm, 68mm, 73mm and 80mm sizes.

The bricks are produced using clays from a vast geographical spread in order to meet local builder’s needs, as well as the local vernacular.

Andrew Halstead-Smith, marketing manager at Ibstock, commented: “Standard bricks often just don’t measure up for RMI and brickmakers need to go the extra

The Omega Flow paving range from Brett Landscaping is designed to address the issue of reduced natural drainage due to growing levels of urbanisation. Suitable for all types of paving projects, the Omega Flow concrete block paver is an ideal product to stock as consumers look at the seasonal driveways revamp.

The Omega Flow paving range is available in a range of four attractive colours including popular Brindle and Charcoal, with blended colours giving the paving a rustic

Jablite, the leading expanded polystyrene insulation material manufactured by Vencel Resil, has recently been installed on the flat roof of a new building at Southampton General Hospital.

The state-of-the-art 440m2 flat-roofed building will provide a new Haematological Unit for the hospital, as well as increasing the unit’s capacity from 19 to 28 beds.

Jabroof board was specified and installed by Elliott’s High Performance Roofing to provide a high-strength and thermally efficient insulation solution for the flat roof.

The boards were specifically manufactured to Type 500 grade to meet the individual needs of this project. This is the first time that this grade of material has been used on a flat roof. The reason is that this is a first stage build and when further development of the hospital is required, further floors to the new building will be able to be built straight on top of this roof structure.

of the LIEBIG products range at its plant in Tamworth, Staffordshire.

The range features: Undercut Anchor Systems, Expansion Anchor Systems and Adhesive Anchor Systems, all of which are used in a number of highly demanding applications such as nuclear power plants and off-shore drilling platforms.

The range also includes the “Ultraplus” anchor - which is used for exceptionally high loads in cracked or non-cracked concrete

and the “Superplus” anchor which can be used in safety critical application of a lower load.

To support the launch of the Liebig range, Simpson Strong-Tie UK have produced a comprehensive 58-page technical catalogue and launched a dedicated website: www.simpson-liebig.com.

Both of these provide full Liebig product information and offer access to additional customer support.

Simpson Strongtie expands product portfolio

Jablite insulation takes care of hospital’s new flat roof

mile to ensure that they can offer a product that meets the demands of the market. The range has been designed with traditional,

local vernaculars and sizes in mind so homeowners can keep their homes looking the way they were intended to - our wide selection of bricks allows builders to create extensions that

look natural, traditional and part of the original build.”

The 68mm traditional range has been designed for the South East

vernacular and is available in a selection of colours. The 73mm range suits the needs of the North and Midlands and is available in a

vast range of reds, buffs, blues, greys and browns. The 80mm range of red bricks has been produced with the North West built environment in mind.

All these bricks are locally produced, to deliver a reduced carbon

footprint. For further information on Ibstock’s traditional range, call 0844 800 4875 for a brochure.

Bu i ld ing

Standard bricks often just don’t measure up for RMI and brickmakers need to go the extra mile to ensure that they can offer a product that meets the demands of the market.

“Brett Landscaping’s Omega Flow encourages water flow

www.e-Xact.net

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For more details see e-Xact home page

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New RockVac processRockwool has implemented a new, proprietary production process to reduce the space taken up by a number of its products, providing environmental and cost benefits for itself and its supply chain. The process, called RockVac, involves significant compression of its products and vacuum extraction during their packing.

This means that Rockwool can supply pallets containing a considerably larger volume of products transported in fewer vehicles, and taking up less space on site when it is delivered. The compressed products then return to their normal size when the packs are opened. The RockVac process also helps to retain the products’ squarer edges, reducing rounding and curving, thus improving their quality.

Andrew Champ, Marketing Director from Rockwool, said: “RockVac demonstrates our commitment to the development of innovative products and processes. We have invested significantly in our production facility to ensure that RockVac can be implemented across a range of our most popular products. We also expect our customers will be pleased that fewer vehicles are now needed to deliver product to their sites.”

Bu i ld ing & Jo inery

e-Xtract / Autumn 2009 e-Xtract / Autumn 2009 6 7

Garador has announced the launch of its new space saving GaraRoll, an insulated roller garage door designed to be stylish even when space is at a premium. Simon Hipgrave, Garador’s MD, said:

“Sectional doors have always been popular, but, if overhead space is restricted inside the garage it is not always possible to fit the mechanics of the door. However, with the new GaraRoll the customer does not have to compromise on practicality, quality or style as everything is tucked away in a neat box on the front wall of their garage. But like a sectional door the GaraRoll lifts vertically and therefore needs no extra space in front of the garage so cars can be parked right up to the door.

H+H UK’s Rå Build method of construction was used to speed up the construction of 16 new affordable and retirement homes in West Sussex. The use of Jumbo Bloks, Celcon Foundation Blocks and the H+H Flooring System mean aircrete was used for the entire inner skin of the development.

The Rå Build method of construction with a cavity wall was preferred as it is quick to install and because of the need to meet level three on the Code for Sustainable Homes. The excellent acoustic and

ZARGES UK has launched its full range of access equipment through Toolbank’s distribution network, including over forty types of steps, ladders, accessories, platforms and scaffold towers.

ZARGES designs and manufactures access equipment to the highest level; all products are tested to rigorous British or European standards and most come with a ten year manufacturer’s warranty. High stock levels at the Milton Keynes warehouse mean items are delivered within 3 to 5 days nationwide.

Available from Toolbank is the ZARGES SKYMASTER combination ladder (shown); with six applications from one ladder including Free-Standing, Stairway as well as standard Extension ladder modes. To view the full range of products visit the Zarges entry on e-Xact.

Drywall specification becomes even more simple with the new partition system selector from Knauf Drywall.

With optimum solutions already designed for the majority of applications, the latest Knauf Drywall initiative enables specifiers to pick the best partition design for any type of building and then to quickly produce specification documents by using the unique online Partition Specifier tool.

Renderoc ST 05 is a primerless, cementitious coating and levelling mortar, designed for application in thin layers to make-good imperfections in concrete surfaces and to provide additional protective cover.

It can be mixed to a variety of consistencies and can be left exposed, providing a tough fair faced finish resistant to both carbonation and chloride ingress.

Advantages of Renderoc ST 05:- Easy to use and apply- Primerless- Excellent adhesion- Vertical and deck applications- Can be applied 0 - 5 mm- Carbonation barrier- Chloride barrier- High compressive strength

Coming to a sector of the market already supplied with many different roller doors we wanted to create a unique door which set a new standard. We have therefore made the first insulated roller door which is spring assisted and able to use a DC side mounted motor rather than the tubular motor used by others. This provides soft start and soft stop and force limit sensitivity not available from the others in the market.” As well as the variety of new features the GaraRoll is equipped with a Garador derived operator as standard, which means any of the current Garador operator accessories are compatible. Availability in 9 colours including 2 timber effect finishes provides a wide choice to suit your property. Its unique facility to allow the curtain to be lifted by the motor makes the GaraRoll easy to fit, safer and quieter and, of course, it is backed up by Garador’s 10-year guarantee.

thermal characteristics inherent with this type of construction helped to achieve this. The completed first phase of the development achieves a U-Value of 0.21W/m2K. The external cavity walls were constructed with a Thin-Jointed aircrete inner leaf and brick outer-leaf topped with a pitched, tiled roof. The foundations and ground floors made use of the tongue and groove H+H Flooring System with Celcon Foundation Blocks. From laying the foundations to roof completion took approximately 16 weeks. Some 3,000 m2 of aircrete was laid with a further 900 m2 of flooring product.

With the majority of the development being made up of retirement homes,sound insulation was especially important and a minimum 50db sound reduction was specified for separating walls to achieve 3 credits on the Code for Sustainable Homes. H+H UK partnered with Isover to devise a bespoke solution.

No shake or rattle with GaraRoll insulated roller door

Aircrete in a hurry

Garador is one of the UK’s leading garage door brands, with all doors meeting current UK regulations under the Standard BS EN 12604.

Full details of this new product together with Safety Datasheets and a technical specification can be found on the e-Xact site. Alternatively call 01827 262222.

Marketing Manager Bob Stark says the system selector has been developed to give specifiers an easy path through the myriad of partition options available.

“We have integrated our resources to provide high-performance, simple-to-implement solutions that meet sector-relevant requirements such as the Building Regulations, the Code for Sustainable Homes, Health Technical Memoranda and the education sector’s Building Bulletins.”

New from Fosroc® - Renderoc

Premdor‘s leading edge technologies and advanced product design guarantees to spark interest in the eyes of potential customers.

What’s new for 2009/2010: Flush Foil Plus -For an environmentally responsible alternative to a real wood veneer, experience Premdor’s top quality three dimensional wood grain appearance door now with a superior new premium upgrade foil. Customised Veneer -Customise a standard veneered door with a choice of classic, modern and contemporary inlay designs to create a stylish and bespoke interior door. Veneer Plus - Suited to those seeking the highest quality veneered door. Veneer Plus doors are manufactured with a solid core construction giving this range a more substantial feel, with improved acoustic barrier capabilities. Exterior Doors - Introducing a new range of American White Oak veneer doors with

stylish raised mouldings to the external face which complies with Part L of the Building Regulations. Plus a new range of door systems in smooth Steel and Fibreglass both Secured by Design.

This is completed with the launch of a new range of superior folding doors, plus a range of French doorsets to add a touch of continental style to any home. Timber Windows - Timber windows and door frames are now increasingly the environmentally friendly product of choice when considering either replacement or new build. To strengthen the range there is the launch of the new Conservation range and Sliding Sash windows.

Premdor continues to be the brand that builders, developers and homeowners choose most in their quest to create beautiful homes and we are confident in our future growth prospects as we continue to expand our product lines and launch innovative new products.

Please telephone 0844 209 0008.

 

Knauf makes drywall specification even simpler

Bu i ld ing & In su la t ion

Premdor launch 2009/2010 range guideZarges steps up with Toolbank

www.e-Xact.net For more details see e-Xact home page

e-Xtract / Autumn 2009 e-Xtract / Autumn 2009 8 9www.e-Xact.net

Heatrae Sadia has launched a solar thermal version of its Electromax ‘one box’ electric heating solution to provide full wet central heating and unvented solar thermal domestic hot water from one compact unit.

This package, available in 185, 220 and 250L capacities, comprises an Amptec electric central heating boiler, an unvented Duplex domestic stainless steel cylinder with a purpose designed solar coil for maximum heat input and efficiency, solar hydraulic and electronic controls, an LCD display panel and expansion vessels to provide solar thermal water heating and an electric wet central heating.

For ease of installation, the product also includes primary solar system fluid and all the necessary connecting pipe work to link the cylinder to the solar collectors.

With all components being fully integrated into the unit, installations are quicker and neater, and the clear, multifunctional and

Zip Heaters (UK) Ltd has announced the launch of its new Hydroboil Plus®

on-wall instant boiling water heater range designed to set a new energy efficiency standard for the provision of hot drinks in the workplace.

The range features a unique combination of energy saving features to keep power usage to an absolute minimum. Hydroboil Plus® delivers up to 45 cups of boiling water at one time, all within 1˚C of boiling with a recovery rate of up to 140

Installers are being given the opportunity for free, local training on the latest heating products from Ideal Boilers, as its mobile training units visit over 600 merchant branches nationwide before the end of the year.

Ideal’s sessions cover briefings on its latest products including the newly-launch Logic range. Installers can quiz Ideal’s business managers on the boiler’s features and get hands on with the product to see for themselves the innovations included.

The SEDBUK A-rated Logic Combi and Logic + boilers are completely new and have been designed and engineered in response to installer demands.

Six training units will be touring the country throughout the autumn, visiting Ideal Boilers’ key merchant partners. Further venues will continue to be announced in 2010.

The Size IT electronic sizing programme from Andrews Water Heaters has been updated to reflect a number of new developments both within the industry and with regard to the latest Andrews products and solutions. As a result this innovative software now includes new products, easier user options and, for the first time, LZC (Low/ Zero Carbon) technologies.

The LZC section includes the fundamental principles of how to size a solar thermal system, taking into account basic load and solar fractions, with a choice of either flat plate or evacuated tube options. Other factors included in the calculations are: where the project is in the country, the annual amount of solar irradiation predicted, the size of the roof and the energy production available

Using dynamic, modern day engineering concepts OSO Hotwater are proud to introduce the revolutionary SUPER S. Breaking new ground and a quantum leap in cylinder design, OSO consider the SUPER S to be the most innovative hot water storage cylinder for decades.

The SUPER S certainly ticks all the boxes - stylish design, good looking, fantastic performance and very easy to install.

The inlet control and blending valve, expansion relief valve, unique secondary expansion solution and T & P valve are factory fitted beneath the removable insulated lid, virtually making the SUPER S a pre-plumbed unit. Plumbing connections are accessed from the rear of the cylinder with a recommendation to bring them to the valve from behind the unit, thus keeping all pipes invisible once the installation is complete. Electrical cables are also concealed.

In the modern SAP and Part L conscious world of plumbing, high performance heat

exchangers and low standing heat losses are a given. The Super S does not disappoint with recovery rates from 11 minutes and similarly impressive heat loss figures.

A substantial additional advantage to the SUPER S is the factory fitted blending valve. Direct SUPER S cylinders are set to a store temperature of 70°C. Domestic

hot water is then blended to 60°C ~ the extra energy contained in the cylinder by the higher store temperature means that a smaller SUPER S can be specified compared to competing cylinders, making further space, cost and heat loss gains for the installer and customer.

In the words of Ray Maxted (MD, OSO), “If you’ve tried the rest it’s now time to fit the best SUPER S, SUPER SMART, SUPER SIMPLE, SUPER SPECIAL.”

Heat ing

cups per hour. Flow is controlled using a new ergonomically designed red, cool-touch lever with boiling water delivery via a low heat loss spout. Available in 3.0, 5.0 or 7.5 litre capacities and with a choice of white or stainless steel case finish, Zip Hydroboil Plus is at home in any commercial environment.

Jim Foxall, Managing Director of Zip Heaters (UK) commented:

Despite the recession, the boiling water market has remained strong, with around seven million cups of tea or coffee being made every working day using Zip systems. The introduction of the new Zip Hydroboil Plus® means our customers can benefit from significantly improved energy efficiency as well as enhanced business efficiency.

Zip Hydroboil Plus sets a new standard for energy efficiency

Free training at 600 UK venues from Ideal boilers

Just some of the innovations in the Logic range are a lightweight monobloc aluminium heat exchanger, a patented zero-pressure silencer for unrivalled noise supression, weather compensation technology and a combined, translucent condensate trap and siphon built in as standard.

The number of components in the Logic range has been significantly reduced resulting in a lift-weight of only 33kg – one of the lowest in the industry.

OSO SUPER S – a quantum leap in cylinder design

The brand new Size IT from Andrews Water Heaters – now with LZC solutions

Heat ing

from different panel angles. A total of three different options can even be trialled on screen.

It has been updated to reflect a number of new developments within the industryThere have also been a great many changes in the presentation of Size IT to improve its usability. Size IT is now Vista compatible and has a larger screen size as well as an updated ‘install programme’ that is easier and faster to use. The Andrews Water Heaters and Potterton Commercial websites have recently been updated and visitors will soon be able to download the Size IT programme directly onto their

computers from these sites.

To receive a copy of the Size IT disk call 0845 070 1055 or email andrews@baxigroup.com

Vokèra has launched the UK’s first boiler specifically designed for outside installation on a balcony or an external wall. Based on the Unica HE combi boiler, the Unica Balcony HE offers the same excellent quality, reliability and efficiency, but with increased siting flexibility and the benefit of space saving in a home.

The new Unica Balcony HE’s IPX5D rating means that Vokèra is the only UK manufacturer to offer an external boiler able to withstand the elements without the need for additional protection. Ideal for flats and apartments with limited inside space, the Unica Balcony HE can also help solve a range of flueing and condensate problems.

The Unica Balcony HE is SEDBUK A rated, with the potential to reduce running costs by up to 35% compared to a conventional boiler. The patented aluminium heat exchanger provides excellent thermal transfer and is corrosion resistant whilst the built-in frost protection also helps to minimise repair work, protecting the appliance from damage during cold weather.

The Unica Balcony HE boiler is initially available in 32kW output, with further models to be added later this year.

New from Vokèra

easy-to-use control panel makeS Electromax easy to configure and ensures end user convenience.

Electromax Solar can be used with flat plate, in-roof or on-roof solar collectors or evacuated tubes, making it suitable for a large range of domestic properties in the UK.

Robin Wood, head of Heatrae Sadia’s electrical division, said: “In modern apartments or rural areas mains gas is sometimes an impractical or unavailable option, so installers might need to look to electricity to provide heating and hot water.

This can pose issues when trying to meet the Government’s SAP targets. Although electric products are highly efficient at the point of use, they do not achieve particularly high SAP ratings because of the way electricity is generated in the UK via coal-fire power stations. Electromax Solar utilises renewable energy from the sun, meaning SAP targets can be met more easily.”

Heatrae Sadia launches electromax solar

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For more details see e-Xact home page

e-Xtract / Autumn 2009 e-Xtract / Autumn 2009 10 11

A revolution in showering

Showerlux UK has launched an enclosure for bathrooms where wall space is at a premium.

Cleverly designed, the new Glide Maxi enclosure features a small footprint to the wall whilst offering a spacious showering area. Available with either single or twin sliding doors, the enclosure comes with a dedicated tray to match its spacious dimensions.

Bob Bowler, managing director at Showerlux comments, “The Glide range has proved popular with showrooms, installers and users due to its simplicity, variety and perhaps most importantly, taking the current economic situation into the account, its affordability.” All models in the extensive Glide range feature a glass sealing system and slimline aluminium frame with magnetic sealing for complete watertight confidence and the easy-grip handles add to its high level of usability. In addition Glass Shield easy clean glass protection now comes as standard. For more information call 02476 88 2515 or see the updated entry on e-Xact.

The Sanicompact toilet has become an essential addition to one RNLI look-out station at St Albans Head in Dorset. Due to its position, the station could not access a mains water supply and up until that point had resorted to using a camping chemical toilet. The Saniflo addition has now meant that a water harvesting system can be utilised in which rain water is fed into the unit via a booster pump.

Deva has added to its cutting Edge range of showers with the new SQ204 square thermostatic bar shower with riser, diverter and minimalist square design handset and shower rose. The combination of safe thermostatic operation and the sophisticated, solid design, results in a shower that’s striking enough for the most design conscious consumer, yet safe enough for family use. Featuring individual control for flow and

temperature and a diverter allowing swift selection of the single mode handset or single mode shower rose, the cutting Edge shower can be used with unbalanced water pressure and combination boilers from a minimum of 1.0 bar for optimum performance. The new shower can be fitted with a flow regulator to reduce the amount of water and energy used, helping protect the environment and resulting in long-term savings on utility bills.

Easy to install, the shower comes complete with adjustable centres and a 1.5 metre long hose.

The innovative Performa T555 heralds the arrival of the next generation of dual-control thermostatic bath and shower mixers from Pegler Yorkshire.

The latest innovation over the L555 is the ability to turn off the water supply in seconds at the body of the tap using the dedicated isolation key. This means time and cost savings associated with removing a bath panel to access and isolate the valve and, in many cases, removing the tap to clean filters and maintain non-return valves and flow regulators.

Other popular features include dual thermostatic technology to give precise flow and temperature control and easy to use handles with clear, bold markings.

The DeviMat electric cable mat system is one of today’s easiest and most cost-effective methods of floor warming. Completely unseen in the home, DeviMat is easy and quick to install, totally safe (CE compliant), and easily controllable.

DeviMat provides a selection of cost-effective, reliable and easy-to-install solutions. DeviMat requires no maintenance whatsoever or associated servicing costs and it is guaranteed for 10 years.

DeviMat cable matting consists of a thin (3.5 mm) earth-screened heating cable affixed to a self-adhesive open mesh. Installation of DeviMat can be carried out by unskilled workers. Only the final quick electrical connections need to be made by qualified staff.

Bath rooms

The Sanicompact is a unique cisternless ceramic WC with a built in macerator pump. Its compact structure means it is the perfect WC to install when space is limited.

Guy the installer explains ‘the Sanicompact discharges through small-bore pipework which is connected to an external cess pit tank. I have since revisited the installation and the staff are very pleased with the Saniflo addition.’

Saniflo has an ongoing commitment to educating the next generation of plumbers and has recently sponsored the plumbing awards evening at Havering College. The main prize, the Saniflo Shield, is awarded to a different deserving student each year.

Meeting Part G of the Building

Regulations

Sanicompact Installation Provides Buoyancy For RNLI Station

Two types of DeviMat are available – DTIF-100 and DTIF-150. These may be purchased in various lengths from 1m up to 12m to suit the floor area being heated. The width of the mat is 500 mm. DTIF-100

is suitable for timber-based floors, delivering a maximum heating load of 100 W/m2. DTIF-150 is intended for concrete-based floors with a maximum heating load of 150 W/m2.

DeviMat systems are ideally controlled by a flush-mounting, intelligent 7-day programmable thermostat, the DeviReg 550, which regulates floor temperature. This can control heating loads up to 3600 Watts and comes with a floor sensor on a 2.5m cable.

Alternatively, the wall mounted dial setting thermostat DeviReg 130 (also supplied with a floor sensor) is available.

Devi is an acknowledged supplier of proven, relevant products for the underfloor heating industry.

Devimat cost effective invisible heating – from Danfoss

New cutting Edge shower

As well as being safe and versatile, the T555 also makes sound economic sense. Costs are saved by not having to purchase a separate electric shower or bath taps, the cost of installing a radial ringmain as well as labour costs during installation. Thereafter, users will get significant savings on annual maintenance costs too.

What the T555 amounts to is the safest, most cost-effective mixer choice. But while cost saving is always a consideration, it is it’s safety features that really set the T555 apart. There is a fast shut off for maximum safety (the T555 is currently the only tap to have been awarded a pass by BuildCert for 46° cold water shut off) and in addition each tap has full traceability, right down to the date and time of manufacture.

With new additions on hot water safety being included in Part G of the Building Regulations, the T555 ensures compliance with the regulations and protects users from the dangers of scalding hot water and the

thermal shock that can occur if the hot water supply fails.

Trust T555 for thermostatic safety

Bath rooms

In October 2009, the new Part G of the Building Regulations comes in to force requiring that all new homes meet a Water Efficiency Standard of 125 litres per head per day.

The only way to achieve the Standard is by installing water efficient products.

One of the easiest ways to achieve the 125 litres per head per day performance target is to install a low flush WC and a low capacity bath.

Bristan’s ecosmart range includes a host of stylish water efficient products designed to help save water in the bathroom. Included in the range is the Dune suite, which includes a 2.6/4 litre flush WC and

a full length acrylic bath which includes a raised base to achieve a 140 capacity fill – way below the current maximum allowance of 230 litres - while still letting you have a lie-down soak.

Installing these products will have a significant impact on achieving the targets set out by the new Part G and will allow better flowing products to be installed in the bathroom, like the shower.

The ecosmart range also features flow limiters for taps and showers which can help you to achieve further water savings.For more information call 0844 701 6271.

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www.e-Xact.net For more details see e-Xact home page

with both hard water and naturally soft water. Mains water – wherever it comes from - has additives and individual characteristics that some people find unpleasant and would prefer to ‘opt out of’ in their homes. This new product allows you to do this if you wish and because the filter life is as long as eight years, it’s effectively a ‘fit and forget’ appliance.

Tapworks MD Mike Pickavance says the new central filter is a response to a market for a whole house filter that will take chlorine and other additives out of the mains water: “Much of the mains water delivered in the UK is hard water and our range of water softeners can effectively address this problem, as well as offering water saving and energy saving benefits as well. At around £400, for the benefits it offers, it’s very affordable,” he says.

The merchant poster lists the benefits of Waterloc250, which include the fact that 96% of its volume can store water, and that layers can be built quickly and easily, by rotating the cells 180°.

Fiona Bashford, Marketing Manager comments, “Over the last few years we have seen increasing levels of interest in sustainable drainage systems. Our new poster campaign aims to provide the key messages of rainwater harvesting, that are integral to both merchants and their customers.”

Slim line and stylish, the fittings are ideal for any domestic application. It is especially well suited for retrofit jobs where space is tight and where flames cannot be used.

The range of forty-eight Push-Fit products in 10, 15, 22 and 28mm sizes includes couplers, elbows, tees and accessories. The fittings are manufactured to prEN1254-6 standard and have full WRAS approval. Made from recycled materials, they can be used up to twenty times and recycled at the end of their life.

e-Xtract / Autumn 2009 e-Xtract / Autumn 2009 12 13

Marley Plumbing and Drainage is supporting merchants with a new poster campaign about its Waterloc250 stormwater storage cell.

Merchants are aware that installing a rainwater harvesting system is an increasing likelihood for many customers due to legislation from the Code for Sustainable Homes and Building Regulations. The Marley poster details the benefits of using Waterloc250 as a soakaway instead of a conventional rubble filled pit:

• Less excavation and disposal of spoil • Reduced garden area needed• Easier to achieve the required minimum distance from the house (5m) • Nesting cells are easier to get into a van or truck

Fernco Pow-R Wrap is a water activated fibreglass wrap that can be used to repair leaks in pipes made from almost any material. It can be used on copper, rubber, plastics, fibreglass, PVC, concrete or galvanised pipes regardless of whether they are wet or dry, clean or dirty, or even corroded!Pow-R Wrap is available in three kits to suit pipes with diameters up-to 25mm, 74mm or 150mm.

The product contains no harmful solvents.

Each kit contains the resin impregnated fibreglass tape in a foil bag, epoxy putty to enhance the repair, a pair of protective gloves and a comprehensive set of usage instructions.

To mend the leak the user has to apply the epoxy putty to the leak, immerse the wrap in water, wrap the pipe and keep the wrap tight for about 15 minutes. The wrap cures within 30 minutes and has a strength of up to 40 BAR.

The product contains no harmful solvents and is therefore suitable for use with potable water and food service lines. It is also heat resistant to 647°C and chemically resistant to diesel fuel, petroleum products, halocarbon and alcohols.

For more information call

01226 340 888.

Tapworks, the leading manufacturer and supplier of water softeners in the UK has launched a new ‘whole house’ water filter to filter mains water throughout the house.

Water filters of different kinds are common in the UK, but most only affect one separate drinking water tap, installed in a kitchen

attached to a small filter system that requires regular three to six monthly filter changes, or are small jug filters, which again require regular filter changes.

The new unit – which is the same size as Tapwork’s smallest ‘under drawer height’ softener – the Ultra 9 – is simple to install and even easier to maintain as it comes with a self cleaning filter that will last between five and eight years in a standard three or four bedroom home.

The new whole house water filter is relevant to homes across the UK as it’s not a water softener and is equally relevant to homes

The Multikwik range of compression waste fittings has now become the most complete on the market, with the addition of a range of 50mm fittings that are easy-to-use, simple to fit, durable in service and complement the Multikwik range of 50mm traps. The fittings are ideal for projects or installations with 50mm pipework where the existing pipework is not known in advance or where it is necessary to accommodate existing ‘non-compatible’ pipe sizes or materials. They are fully compatible with any pipe material - polypropylene push-fit, MuPVC, ABS solvent weld and even copper waste pipe – and any size including imperial, metric, DIN and ISO copper grades.

The new Push-Fit range of brass plumbing fittings from Conex is the answer to installers’ prayers for flame-free jointing. The Push-Fit range is quick and easy to fit and can be demounted and reused just as easily.

The system can be used for hot and cold potable water, heating, and chilled water systems and its ease of installation and its simple, robust design makes it the obvious choice. Because Conex Push-Fit can be used with virtually any pipe material including copper, stainless steel, carbon steel and plastics, they are the perfect fittings to keep in the back of the van.

It takes just five seconds to create a secure, leak-free joint. A specially designed grab ring ensures that the fitting is firmly secured but not fixed, allowing for system alignment of valves and gauges. The fitting can be demounted using a special release tool. With a corrosion-resistant natural brass finish, the ingenuity of the Push-Fit range lies in the simplicity of its design with only two integral components – a high-grade EPDM O-ring and stainless steel grab ring. The precision-machined body has an integral tube stabiliser.

Helping merchants to increase sales

New ‘Whole House’ water filter from tapworks

P lumbing P lumbing

They are ideal fittings for keeping in the van as a quick-fix solution to tricky plumbing jobs. They can be effectively tightened by hand with their robust seals making them the leak-free, no call-back alternative with an easy wipe clean finish for a long lasting, good looking finish. Manufactured from tough high temperature polypropylene, the new Multikwik 50mm compression waste range comprises a straight coupling, a 90 º bend, a 135 º bend, a swept tee branch, and a 50mm-40mm reducer. Socket plugs, plain-ended pipe and pipe clips complete the range. Each fitting is individually packed to ensure that they stay in pristine condition right to the point of use.

New push-fit range offers ultimate in speedy versatility

New compression range helps in a tight spot

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Fernco Pow-R Wrap is like a seal of steel

Tackle limescale with Fernox DS-3 The build-up of limescale on heat exchangers can lead to a loss in efficiency and even component failure. Fernox DS-3 provides a high performing solution that dissolves up to 50% of its own weight in limescale, helping to restore central heating system efficiency. This versatile and powerful product is suitable for use with steel, stainless steel, cast iron, copper, brass, PVC, ABS rubber polythene and most plastic pipework. Available in 250g, 2kg and 30 kg containers, Fernox DS-3 can also be neutralised with Fernox System Neutraliser.

Easy to use, Fernox DS-3 is first dissolved in hot water to accelerate the de-scaling process. A colour change from yellow, through to green and then blue indicates when the de-scaling powder is exhausted.

Ensuring heat exchangers are free from limescale can have a positive effect on the efficiency of a central heating system,” explained Dr. Neil Watson, European Technical Director for Fernox. “We often recommend installers use Fernox DS-3 on a customer’s shower-head to demonstrate the job it’s doing on the heat exchanger.

Fernox DS-3 can also be used on all metal domestic appliances such as kettles and taps to remove limescale further highlighting the effectiveness of the product.

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www.e-Xact.net For more details see e-Xact home page

North West based plumbers’ merchant, James Hargreaves, has recently taken on the bisTrack range of software products from Progressive Solutions. The system will be used to manage sales, control stock, simplify purchasing and gather intelligence. Around 100 James Hargreaves staff will be using the system.

James Hargreaves are already major users of e-Xact and one of the requirements stipulated by their MD, Gordon Rothwell, was that the bisTrack software should integrate with e-Xact as seamlessly as possible.

Commenting on the company’s use of e-Xact Gordon said, “We like to spend our time selling plumbing and heating materials. So anything that removes the drudge of keeping our systems updated is great for us. For many of our suppliers, e-Xact helps to do this. We and our associates in the CBA want to see many more suppliers on e-Xact. As we move to trading on the internet the opportunities and benefits of using it are becoming even greater for all those involved.”

Gordon went on to say that in Hargreaves’ move ahead, because of the integration with bisTrack “e-Xact will become a cornerstone of our core trading application.”

Much of the technical integration work between bisTrack and e-Xact has already been completed – and e-Xact supplier catalogues and content (such as product images) can be accessed and browsed directly from the bisTrack applications.

e-Xact and Progressive Solutions are having on-going discussions about how the integration can be further developed to provide even greater benefits to users.

Grange Fencing has announced that it has agreed to acquire the goodwill and assets of Metpost, from Expamet Building Products Ltd for an undisclosed sum. The deal was completed on 28th August 2009.

For 30 years, Metpost has been the market leader in fence post supports and accessories, and since their invention in 1974, in excess of 80 million patented spikes have now been sold worldwide. The brand continues to lead the way in this market and the name “Metpost” remains synonymous with the metal fence post spike. Grange’s Managing Director, Duncan Hill, said “We are very pleased to be acquiring this well known and respected business. This acquisition is consistent with our strategy and will fit well with our existing operations.

We look forward to welcoming Metpost customers to Grange and extending to them the excellent on-time-in-full service that our existing customers receive.”

e-Xtract / Autumn 2009 e-Xtract / Autumn 2009 14 15

It’s another industry first for British Gypsum as it achieves full ISO14001:2004 certification across its entire business including; all mining, manufacturing, and central functions.

ISO14001:2004 identifies a framework for Environmental Management and is designed to credit companies who work to minimise their negative impact on the environment. British Gypsum’s certification follows extensive external assessment by the British Standards Institute (BSI) and shows the tough environmental standards the company strives to maintain across all its functions.

As an ISO14001:2004 certified manufacturer British Gypsum products can now help customers to achieve valuable points under the Code for Sustainable Homes and BREEAM schemes.

Hambleside Danelaw has been elevated to Four-Star status within the Green Organisation, one of the world’s leading environmental groups.

Hambleside Danelaw was awarded the distinction of Four-Star status as a result of its increased activity and influence to the benefit of the environment.

Ray Khan of Hambleside Danelaw said: “We are delighted to have been promoted from Three-Star to Four-Star status on the strength of our continuing and increasing commitment to the environment.”

A Green Organisation spokesman commented that Hambleside Danelaw “make a significant difference to the environment in their field of expertise. They will be able

CEMEX UK now has 20% of its cement pallets returned under a retrieval scheme launched a year ago. The scheme was the first of its kind in the cement industry and aimed to recover as many as possible of the 250,000 CEMEX pallets distributed annually to about 600 different builders merchant outlets.

Over 10 million bags of CEMEX cement are sold every year and transported on pallets.

In the UK, the cost of pallets has escalated with prices rising by 15% in 2007 and 20% in 2008. For economic reasons as well as environmental, it made sense to find a way to prevent pallets going to waste,” explained Graham Russell, Vice President Commercial, Logistics and Building Products.

The recovery operation is run in conjunction with European Logistics Management, (ELM) the UK leader in the management and control of returnable transit packaging.

ELM is collecting the pallets on a regular basis from customers, making any necessary repairs before returning them to CEMEX, ready for new bagged cement deliveries.

“We get excellent data about who is and who isn’t returning the pallets and we take every opportunity to show the merchant that the pallets have a value, they aren’t free and it is in their interest to return them.

The first year has been successful in keeping pallets in the system for several repeated shipments, though repairs and quality control become of increasing importance the longer they are in the system,” concludes Graham Russell.

   

Richard Burbidge has received record satisfaction scores from customers in its 8th independent survey, with product quality, branding and ordering staff highlighted as areas of particular strength. Over 250 builders’ merchants, independent retailers and joinery manufacturers were interviewed by a market research agency and were asked to rate Richard Burbidge on a range of areas. The company received its highest ever overall customer satisfaction score of 80 out of 100, which is considered an excellent achievement for a manufacturing business. Richard Burbidge’s product offering, marketing, deliveries, order process and problem solving were also rated highly, receiving scores of more than 80.

Areas for improvement were also identified, including the use of carrier services, and this

Hambleside DanelawBuilding Products

Env i ronmenta l News

to use our distinctive green Apple logo on their materials to identify themselves as a company that is trying to protect and enhance the environment. They will also have access to our library, receive Eco Echo publication and will be able to network with other companies”.

They will be helping the group to continue their own environmental initiatives, including the publication of The Green Book – the annual environmental best practice Work of Reference.

The company is on track to represent the UK in the European Business Awards for the Environment, having achieved this honour once before in 2004.

The company has been notified that it is among the major winners in the green Apple Environmental Awards - one of the few accredited feeder schemes into the international campaign.

Four-star eco promotion for Hambleside Danelaw

Cemex retrieves 50,000 pallets to date

British Gypsum’s environmental

management success

Additional credits are available under the ‘Responsible Sourcing of Materials used for Basic Building Elements’ section for using accredited companies.

Allen Gorringe, British Gypsum Environment Manager, say’s “This is just one way we can highlight our commitment to the environment. We’ve been successful in our certification because we work exceptionally hard in the background to maintain our high levels of commitment.” 

is already under review, as a direct result of customer feedback. Commenting on the results of the latest survey, Chief Executive Steve Underhill said: “We take the customer satisfaction survey extremely seriously. We want to know what we’re doing well but more importantly, what we can do better, which is why we survey customers regularly using an independent agency.”

Richard Burbidge receives record customer satisfaction scores in independent survey

Grange fencing acquires Metpost Hargreaves use e-Xact

Company News

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The third winner, Safe n Sound Day Nursery in Beverley, had to leave the radiators on all weekend, to ensure it would be warm enough on Monday mornings.

The judges awarded the nursery with 200mm loft insulation and solar panels to help the nursery reduce their reliance on using fossil fuels.

For the second year running, Knauf Insulation, in conjunction with Project: Renovate, has helped to educate over 18,000 pre-schools and nurseries on the importance of the environment. This year’s three winners have all conveyed their dedication and enthusiasm for improving the thermal efficiency of their surroundings.Lydia Sharples, Knauf Insulation

e-Xtract / Autumn 2009 www.e-Xact.net

Knauf Insulation, sponsors of Project: Renovate, a national grassroots campaign targeting nurseries across the UK, have unveiled their energy efficient renovation plans for the winning nurseries.

First launched in February 2008 by HIT En-tertainment and led by the popular children’s character Bob the Builder™, the campaign offers nurseries an energy efficient renovation up to £15,000 while also encouraging nursery-age children to learn about the benefits of an energy efficient renovation in their setting.

Over 18,000 nurseries were invited to take part in the competition and out of the hundreds of entries, three nurseries have now been selected to receive an energy efficient renovation worth up to £15,000 each.

The judges selected Happy Days Nursery in Truro and awarded them external wall insulation as part of their prize. Not only will the insulation boost the thermal efficiency of the building but the different colour options available for the rendering will also make the exterior more vibrant and appealing to the young attendees.

The second winner was Viewforth Nursery in Leven who submitted the nursery’s traditional design drawings to demonstrate why their annual energy consumption was so high. To help improve the energy efficiency of the old building, Project: Renovate awarded cavity and loft insulation to meet current government requirements and solar panels.

Every year e-Xact chooses a charity to support during the forthcoming year. Last year we supported Children’s Adventure Farm Trust. The Adventure Farm provides holidays and activities for terminally ill, chronically sick, disabled and disadvantaged children from all over the Northwest. Other charities that we have supported include Breakthrough, The British Heart Foundation and SARA (The Severn Area Rescue Association).

This year we are asking you to nominate who you think would be a good charity and who is in your view, deserving of support. If you would like to nominate a charitable cause then please e-mail us the name of the charity and your reasons for proposing them by 30th November 2009. All nominations will be put into a hat and one selected at random. Our first donation to them will be the money that we save each year by not printing Christmas cards.

Enter our competition to win a £100 Argos Gift Voucher. Simply provide the answers to these questions and send them with your name, company and contact details via email to: competition@e-Xact.net no later than 31st December 2009.

1. What status has Hambleside Danelaw been elevated to by the Green Organisation?

2. Neil _______ provides the voice for Bob The Builder in the UK TV series?

3. How many digits does a GTIN code have?

Your chance to win £100 voucher!

Project: Renovate - the 2009 winners!

Who Do You Think Deserves Some Help?

e-Xact Online Ltd - Telephone 01270 875 713

News

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Issue 2/2009 competition winner

The lucky winner of our £100 prize was Mr Richard Bayles from Caernarfon – who told us that Fosroc had 226 COSHH datasheets on e-Xact. Good counting Richard – we hope the prize helps to make your Christmas a merry one!

Closing date 31st December 2009. All correct emailed entries will be entered into a draw. One winner will receive a £100 Argos Gift Voucher. No alternative prize will be offered. Only one entry per person. Winner will be notified by email within 28 days of closing date. For details of winner send an SAE to promoter’s address:e-Xact Online, PO Box 1294, Kidsgrove, Stoke-on-Trent, ST7 3UL