Professional Builder is the business magazine for the building industry which showcases an array of news, reviews, services and products.
PBM delves into the pages of the January issue to highlight some of the most relevant products that could be filling up your shelves.
We get started with an Extensions & Conversions feature and Wavin kicks this section off by advising on the most effective drainage and how to combat system noise.
Indeed, acoustics within a drainage system are of vital importance and loud noises can be caused by a lack of allowance for thermal movement in the system as well as water impacting against the pipes. Wavin has introduced its noise calculator which can accurately determine the noise levels of any waste and soil installation prior to fitting. On such issues, as a merchant it is good practice to keep up to date with all the services available to ensure you can aid easy installation for your customers.
Safeguard Europe is up next to warn people against using budget-priced damp-proof treatment. Such products, the company says, usually contain low concentrations of silicones that will be unable to match the performance of those with a higher concentration.
And by using these products, rising damp could be causing homeowners problems a few years down the line so Safeguard recommends its Dryrod Damp-Proofing Rod System which incorporates solid fibre rods, impregnated with reactive silicones of low molecular weight. The rod treatment can reduce water absorption by 98% when compared to creams and is therefore, it argues, a much more effective method to treat damp.
Rounding off this Extensions & Conversions feature is BASF with the launch of its Elastospray LWP spray foam insulation. Designed for almost all areas of the building envelope, the material features low thermal conductivity due to its closed-cell structure and air-tightness. The spray is also said to provide high compressive strength as well as appropriate water vapour permeability.
Locked in next is Yale in PB’s Doors, Windows & Security feature and advises how trade professionals can offer high quality security products. It details the main standards to consider when purchasing a lock which include BS3621, PAS24:2016, TS007:2014 and TS621:2018 — something merchant staff may want to stay aware of so they can provide the best advice to customers.
With a range of products on offer to ensure trade professionals adhere to the standards, Yale lists its PAS3621 Doormaster replacement lock as a viable option. It is said to be the first retrofit multipoint lock on the market that is Secured by Design approved and provides maintained accreditation on existing PAS24:2016 doors.
Closing the Doors, Windows & Security feature, we have the Nuki Smart Lock 2.0 which can turn an end-user’s smartphone into a key. Living in an increasingly digital age, where smart applications are becoming more popular, means these types of solutions in your branches are a great way to ensure your trade customers are right up to date with the digital age.
It includes Bluetooth 5 for improved range, enhanced internal processing power for speed of use, a door sensor for at-a-glance status updates on your home door, plus full Apple HomeKit compatibility. It has also been updated to ensure it fits the common UK oval-cylinder lock.
For your ever fashion-conscious trade customer, PB’s resident man about town Roger Bisby takes a look at Regatta’s range of workwear named Tactical Threads. Promising to deliver a sensible price, it includes shoes, boots, socks, belts, trousers, tops and jackets.
Bridging the gap between workwear and streetwear, trade professionals can get their hands on the Thrust Insulated Bomber Jacket which features inside zip pocket, outside zip pockets and a hood as well. Also included in the range are the Heroic Trousers and Invective SPB Tactical boot which promises to provide safety, comfort and style.
The Makita DLS600 mitre saw glides into the Tools & Equipment feature next and its lightweight frame makes it easy to transport from van to site. It is said to be ideal for cutting skirting and architraves with a thin kerf blade and can easily cut 4 by 2 CLS. It also showcases a laser, LED worklight as well as the capability to attach a dust bag for those working indoors.
Concluding us this month is a product test from none other than Tibby Singh Chodha who puts the Bosch Professional GHO 26-82 D through its paces. The electric planer can take off 2.6mm in each pass and up to 82mm in width.
Tibby praises the mental fence, which can be mounted to both sides of the body, and a dust bag that can also fit on both sides making it easier for right and left hand users. Featuring a moveable ball joint and lead connection, it allows the machine to work with the user instead of against them. It seems this tool has kept ease of use in mind at all points!
