Discover the Beacon™ Modular Building

Building Products Index Ltd Modular Building System Leave a Comment

View the Glasdon entry on BPindex

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Glasdon UK Limited are experts in the design, manufacture, delivery, and installation of modular building systems. Customers agree that our Beacon Modular Building is their first choice when it comes to superior accommodation for security, transport, offices, and other specialised applications.

The Beacon is a high-quality preassembled building system and offers all the firmly anchored mainstay features that make our building & housing products our customers’ go-to building system for a range of diverse needs and requirements. Suitable for 24/7 working environments, such as gatehouses, receptions, toll booths, vehicle checkpoints, staff offices, security and control centres, and much more.

It comes in 17 size configurations and two standard colours, natural anodised aluminium and anthracite grey. Assembled from a combination of thermally broken aluminium alloy extrusions, composite floor and wall panels, fixed glazing, and proprietary aluminium framed window and door systems, the Beacon’s framework is further complemented by an aluminium fascia system that has been designed together with a SIP (Structurally Insulated Panel) roof system, to achieve improved thermal performance.

The Beacon also features an external steel finish that is weather-resistant and pre-finished. This helps insulate the composite wall panels. All windows and doors are double-glazed as standard, and an insulated composite floor panel on a preservative-treated timber plinth with a vapour barrier further adds to the Beacon’s thermally efficient design.

Its excellent levels of insulation allow for minimal heat loss in colder weather, and less heat gain during warmer seasons.

Our Beacon remains competitively priced and highly adaptable, offering up to 16 wall panel configurations including blank walls and glazed doors, as well as bespoke internal layouts thanks to a variety of interior options, from electrics all the way to sanitaryware. Further options, such as anti-sun solar control glass, air conditioning packages (HVAC), exterior lighting, canopies and non-standard finishes (available at an extra cost) add to the Beacon’s customisability.

For more information on our Beacon modular building, view our full listing.

Newton’s 2026 Calendar of Free RIBA CPD Seminars

Building Products Index Ltd Waterproof Membranes, waterproofing Leave a Comment

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Written by Warren Muschialli

Announcing the 2026 calendar of RIBA CPD seminars from Newton, delivered by our team of qualified experts.

Our 2026 line-up includes a choice of five CPD events, hosted in partnership with the RIBA Academy, providing online and in-person access to our latest RIBA-accredited CPDs and training.

CPD events will be delivered by our highly experienced team of Certificated Surveyors in Structural Waterproofing (CSSW). They deliver over one-hundred RIBA-approved CPDs throughout the year to architects, engineers and construction professionals across the country.

Your choice of RIBA CPD seminars for 2026 cover a range of best-practice guidance and compliance on different aspects of structural waterproofing. In line with the 2022 British Standard for waterproofing, BS 8102:2022, available topics include:

  • Waterproofing Design Strategies
  • A Designer’s Guide to ‘Type C’ Waterproofing
  • Achieving Continuity in Concrete Waterproofing
  • Principles of ‘Type A’ Barrier Waterproofing

Furthermore, our latest RIBA-approved CPD on Specifying Pumping Systems for Below-Ground Waterproofing Projects will also be available both online and in-person.

Booking Your RIBA CPD Seminars

See below for the full list of dates and registration links to our 2026 RIBA CPD events:

19th March 2026:

27th April 2026:

22nd June 2026

14th September 2026

  • 12:00 – 01:00 pm – RIBA CPD Hour – Registration link TBC

23rd November 2026

  • 12:00 – 01:00 pm – RIBA CPD Hour – Registration link TBC

New registration links and timings for each CPD webinar will be added to the CPD page of the website as soon as they become available. Contact us to be kept informed about upcoming CPD events and other free training resources.

As well as the online webinars and events, the above presentations are also available as face-to-face seminars or private webinars over Microsoft Teams.

To book your free CPD, call 01732 360 095, or email our CPD Co-ordinator, James jamesnewton@newtonwaterproofing.co.uk

New Clement steel windows make a statement at prestigious London apartment building

Building Products Index Ltd Steel, Windows Leave a Comment

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Clement Windows Group has manufactured and installed new steel windows at a prestigious Central London apartment building.

This striking, Georgian-fronted building is located in the Harley Street Conservation Area and situated within the boundaries of the ancient Manor of St Marylebone, the history of which can be traced back to the Domesday Book in the eleventh century.  The area is rich in history and architecture, with terraced houses from different periods, ranging from the Georgian era through to the Modernist era of the 20th century.

Steel windows from the Clement EB24 range were selected because they could provide a close match to the look of the original Art Deco stye windows while offering a much improved specification.

For the particular apartment shown in the photograph below, the client opted for a dual colour option.  The windows are painted Jet Black on the outside and Traffic White on the inside to match the owner’s interior design.  The look is completed with Lodsworth handles and matching peg stays which are powder coated to match the frames.

Clement EB24 steel windows are made bespoke to individual orders.  Developed for refurbishment projects requiring a traditional steel window appearance, these slim framed, double-glazed windows offer improved thermal performance and advanced security.  Manufactured from hot rolled steel profiles which are produced from 98% recycled steel source material, they also bring sustainable credentials.

Produced in Clement’s factories which are certified to ISO 9001 (Quality Management) and ISO 14001 (Environmental Management), the steel frames are hot dip galvanised to EN ISO BS:1461, with a polyester powder coat finish to BS:6497 2005 EN 13438 2018.

Clement Windows Group manufactures an innovative range of steel windows, doors and screens for both private residences and commercial projects.  The company also offers a selection of conservation rooflights.

01428 643393              info@clementwg.co.uk                      www.clementwindows.co.uk

WAVIN LAUNCHES KEYLESS HEP2O RANGE

Building Products Index Ltd Pipes, Plastic piping, push fit fittings Leave a Comment

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Leading plumbing and drainage manufacturer, Wavin, has expanded its plastic push-fit offering with the launch of its fifth-generation fitting, Hep2O Keyless.

This new range features an innovative two-stage twist and push functionality, eliminating the need for a demounting key and offering a smaller, more compact design. Hep2O Keyless fittings can be purchased in a pre-locked position, allowing for faster and easier installations.

Previewed at the InstallerSHOW 2024, the Keyless range retains much of the trusted functionality of the original Hep2O line and is compatible with a wide range of plastic and copper fittings. The development of these fittings was guided by feedback from plumbers and installers, addressing common challenges such as lengthy installation times and working in confined spaces.

The new Keyless range is backed by a 50-year guarantee and features Wavin’s In4Sure technology, ensuring secure joints with a distinctive ‘rumble’ during installation. New features include an optimised flow rate and robust plastic that prevent fittings from dismounting due to water hammer.

While the original Hep2O range remains a popular choice, Wavin is committed to providing merchants with flexible options that meet the diverse needs of individual projects.

Steve Harris, Technical Support Engineer at Wavin said: “Developing this range in-hand with tradespeople has been key. We’re excited to launch the next generation of our Hep2O fittings, enabling merchants to offer their customers a variety of solutions tailored to specific project requirements.”

For more details and samples, visit: https://promo.wavin.com/en-gb/hep2o-keyless

Dulux Trade Unveils Paint Specification Creator Tool

Building Products Index Ltd Paint, Uncategorized Leave a Comment

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Dulux Trade Unveils New Paint Specification Creator to Transform Tender Documentation

Dulux Trade has announced the launch of its Paint Specification Creator, a free, digital tool designed to simplify and strengthen the tendering process for architects, designers, project managers, and contractors across the UK.

The new Paint Specification Creator streamlines the previously time‑consuming task of building technically robust paint specifications. By guiding users through a clear, step‑by‑step process and drawing on the full breadth of the Dulux Trade product portfolio, the tool ensures that every specification is accurate, compliant, and tailored to the precise needs of each project.

Designed with both ease of use and professional rigour in mind, the tool allows users to begin by selecting whether they are working on an interior or exterior environment. From there, they can define the surfaces and substrates involved—ranging from plaster and wood to metalwork and masonry—before choosing the finish they wish to achieve.

Once the project parameters are entered, the system automatically searches the comprehensive Dulux Trade range to recommend the most suitable products and coating systems. This ensures specifiers receive a high‑performing and durable solution that aligns with industry best practice, sustainability goals, and aesthetic expectations.

It generates tender‑ready technical documentation, complete with:

  • Accurate application guidance
  • Full M60 (Painting & Decorating) specification clauses
  • Relevant system build‑ups
  • Professional formatting suitable for direct inclusion in tender packs

This functionality means specifiers can instantly download a completed pdf document that supports both competitive tendering and compliance with construction standards—saving valuable time during early project stages.

Dulux Trade highlighted the company’s ongoing commitment to supporting the building and construction sector with tools that both simplify decision‑making and elevate the quality of finished work. The Paint Specification Creator builds on decades of coating expertise, offering digital access to technical knowledge traditionally only available through specialist advisors.

The Dulux Trade Paint Specification Creator is available now and free to use

Aircrete foundations for energy efficient homes

Building Products Index Ltd Blocks, Concrete Leave a Comment

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Whether masonry or timber frame, every house can benefit from an aircrete foundation.

A foundation distributes the weight of a building to the ground so needs to be of the highest quality and reliability to provide stability.

Aircrete is a popular material for building foundations for the wide-ranging benefits it offers as a groundworks solution. Its light weight and fast build-speed enable a building’s foundations to be constructed quickly, easily and cost-effectively.

Advantages of aircrete foundation blocks

Celcon Foundation Blocks can support both solid and cavity wall constructions along with timber and steel-framed systems. These aircrete blocks, manufactured by H+H, are available in a range of face sizes and thicknesses to ensure the foundation is at least as wide as the thickness of the wall being supported.

  1. Thermal performance

Aircrete’s material properties make it highly thermally efficient. This enhances a dwelling’s energy efficiency by reducing heat lost into the ground while reducing the need for additional insulation.

Achieving Part L of the building regulations is easy with Celcon Blocks because of the low U-values they achieve. In fact, Part L recommends using aircrete foundation blocks where aircrete is being used in the construction of external walls to ensure continuity of insulation levels within the building fabric.

In addition, the raw materials used in the production of Celcon Blocks give them excellent resistance to sulfate attack and frost damage.

  1. Speed

Weighing just one third of an equivalent dense aggregate block, Celcon Foundation Blocks are easier to handle and faster to lay, improving productivity.

Celcon Blocks can easily be cut with a hand saw meaning off-cuts can often be incorporated into the build, reducing wastage.

In addition, only a single leaf of blockwork needs to be laid to form the foundations, as opposed to cavity construction which requires two leaves of blockwork and concrete infill. This means works can be completed in less time, reducing labour costs.

  1. Approved method

Celcon Foundation blocks are approved by the British Board of Agrément (BBA) for use below DPC.

There are also health and safety benefits from handling lighter blocks. Although no specific weight limits are given in legislation, use of the heavier blocks should be subject to a risk assessment and a safe system of work established following the guidance of HSE Construction Information Sheet No. CIS77 ‘Preventing injury from handling heavy blocks’.

H+H products for the construction of foundations

H+H aircrete Foundation Blocks are available in Standard Grade (3.6N/mm2) and High Strength Grade (7.3N/mm2) to support buildings up to three storeys.

The blocks are available in two face sizes, 325 x 215mm and 440 x 215mm. The 440mm face size block is available in three thicknesses: 275mm, 300mm and 355mm.

H+H Standard Grade and Solar Grade aircrete blocks can also be used below the DPC for both the internal and external leaves of cavity foundations. For applications where a higher compressive strength is required, such as the foundations of three and four storey buildings, H+H’s High Strength and Super Strength Grade blocks should be used.

Full technical details for Celcon Foundation Blocks can be viewed on H+H’s website.

A Quantum leap – lowering heights, gaining value at 8 Bishopsgate.

Building Products Index Ltd Blue Roof Systems, waterproofing Leave a Comment

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Architect: WilkinsonEyre
Main Contractor: Lendlease

Radmat Products used:
ProTherm Quantum® PLUS+VIP Inverted Roof System|
ProTherm XPS Infill Insulation
Blue Roof System
EshaFlex 370 Waterproofing System
PermaQuik Hot Melt System
ReadySeal Liquid Applied Waterproofing Membrane
ProTherm G XPS X 300 and ULTRA Insulation Board
RockFace A2 Non-combustible Upstand Board
FOAMGLAS T3+ Insulation

Located in the heart of London’s financial district, 8 Bishopsgate is a 51-storey commercial tower reaching approximately 204 m in height. The building was designed by WilkinsonEyre with structural and services engineering by Arup and construction managed by Lendlease. The building comprises approximately 52,900 m² of high-grade office space, along with retail and amenity areas. Its form is expressed as a series of stacked shapes that step back as the height increases, creating terraces at several levels and culminating in a pavilion block at the top which houses plant, executive space and a public viewing gallery.

Structurally, 8 Bishopsgate uses a steel-frame superstructure supported by two concrete cores that provide the lateral stability. The floor systems use composite metal-deck slabs, and the façade is a double-skin glazed system incorporating interstitial blinds designed to reduce solar gain and improve energy efficiency. From a sustainability and amenities perspective the building is impressive: it was delivered to BREEAM Outstanding and EPC A targets. A key public amenity is the free 50th-floor “Lookout” viewpoint for visitors,this public viewing gallery has magnificent views across London.

Sustainability has been a key design driver from the project’s inception. The structure uses only the steel needed for each load, reducing total steel by 25% and saving around 5,000 tonnes of CO₂. A raft foundation cuts the number of piles, saving 3,000 m³ of concrete (about 300 tonnes of CO₂). The tower’s massing is carefully composed: each block is slightly rotated and cantilevered to create a dynamic stacked form that reduces visual bulk and relates to the varied surrounding townscape.

In the roof and upper plant zone, the pavilion block at the top accommodates major building services, including mechanical and electrical plant, and makes provision for photovoltaic panels and louvres to support the building’s carbon-reduction goals. As the tower’s stacked massing recedes at higher levels, it creates opportunities for a series of generous roof terraces at levels 9, 11, 25 and 26. These elevated external platforms provide valuable amenity space for building occupants, incorporating a combination of hard and soft landscaping to support both social use and visual interest. The terraces offer welcome access to fresh air and daylight within a dense urban context and afford expansive views across the City of London, contributing positively to workplace wellbeing and the overall tenant experience.

Radmat’s products largely contributed to the environmental savings for the roof and terraces. The use of state-of-the-art ProTherm Quantum Plus+ VIP system can reduce the thickness of inverted roofing systems without compromising thermal performance, whilst still achieving level thresholds.

The U-value was kept to an overall 0.25 W/m•K despite some of the features on the roofs making this difficult to achieve. ProTherm Quantum and XPS Infill insulation was used extensively on roof areas that required irregular shapes and keeping to a low height under the BMU track and plant machinery.

This working drawing for 8 bishopsgate show the intricate design plans for roof areas using ProThermQuantum Plus+ and XPS Infill insulation.

Radmat’s Blue Roof system was also a major factor in keeping to sustainability targets. Rainwater in an inner city or urban location provides a greater challenge, particularly on constrained sites such as in urbanised areas, or brownfield sites, where the use of underground tanks are difficult and/or costly.

The Radmat Blue Roofing system is explicitly designed to attenuate rainwater rather than drain as quickly as possible, significantly contributing to the SuDS requirements within a development by collecting and temporarily retaining rainfall (for a maximum of 24 hours) within the roof finishes before discharging at a controlled rate.

Radmat’s Blue Roof system consists of PermaQuik Hot Melt Monotlithic membrane and EshaFlex 370 Reinforced bitumen membrane, guranteeing the six Blue Roof levels at 8 Bishopsgate are completely leak free for the design life of the building.

Overall, 8 Bishopsgate demonstrates how a modern high-rise office tower in central London can integrate premium working environments, public amenity, sustainability standards and architectural distinction. Its stepped massing, generous tenant amenities, high-capacity active-travel facilities and the pavilion viewing gallery reflect evolving expectations in commercial tower design. The roof and plant zone reiforce how “the roof” in such buildings is not merely a cap but a critical performance zone, combining structural, mechanical, façade and amenity disciplines at height. The project offers useful lessons in early multidisciplinary coordination, flexibility in plant layout and the importance of detailed focus on high-level structural/maintenance zones, Radmat’s premium ProTherm Quantum Plus+ and Blue Roof systems ensure the integrity of these roofs for many years to come.

For more information on Radmat Products contact:
Contact sales@radmat.com
www.radmat.com

Jakob Webnet Frames: made-to-measure stainless steel framed mesh panels for faster detailing and installation

Building Products Index Ltd Mesh, Stainless Steel Leave a Comment

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Jakob Webnet Frames combine precision-engineered 316 stainless steel frames with high-strength Webnet wire mesh infill to create robust, made-to-measure panels for indoor and outdoor use. Available in Classic and Inviss frame styles, they are suitable for a broad range of projects, including balustrade infill, guarding, partitions, sky-light openings, bridge safety and heli-pad surrounds.

Manufactured by Jakob Rope Systems in Switzerland and supplied in the UK by MMA Architectural Systems, these framed panels provide a defined perimeter and fixing strategy, helping to simplify detailing and reduce on-site assembly time.

Why specify a framed Webnet panel?

Webnet frames are suitable for a wide range of applications, including both new build and refurbishment projects, indoors or out, including:

  • Balustrading and guarding
  • Partitioning
  • Skylight opening safety (fall prevention)
  • Heli-pad surrounds
  • Glass protection
  • Bridge safety
  • Observation platform safety

For projects where a robust, low-maintenance mesh infill is required, whether driven by durability in harsher environments or by the need for a visually light solution, using a fabricated perimeter frame can also help deliver repeatable modules with consistent edge detailing.

Providing a defined edge to work to on site, made-to-measure frames make installation faster and more straightforward – helping installers to set out fixings accurately, allow for normal tolerances, and form neat connections to the surrounding structure.

Frame options: Classic and Inviss

Inviss Frames
Inviss frames integrate the Webnet into the frame itself to create a clean edge detail. With no wires around the perimeter, Webnet end connections are concealed within the frame. Inviss frames are available in round tube or square/rectangular section.

Classic Frames
Classic frames provide a more traditional framed appearance. The Webnet is sewn around the perimeter and attached to the frame, rather than incorporated into the structure of the frame. Classic frames are available in round tube only.

Key specification options

Tested to EN12600:2002, Webnet Frames can be configured to suit a wide range of design and performance requirements, including:

  • Frame section options: Classic (round tube); Inviss (round tube or square/rectangular)
  • Pre-drilled frames or welded lugs, eyes and bosses
  • Easy-fit fittings and clamps for faster installation
  • Optional powder coating in any RAL colour
  • Choice of rope diameters and mesh apertures to suit requirements

 

Technical support

MMA Architectural Systems’ expert team provides full technical assistance and support, helping specifiers design and select an appropriate fram type, mesh configuration, finish and fixing approach for the intended application.

Phone: +44 (0)1761 419 427
Email: sales@mma-architectural.co.uk

About MMA Architectural Systems Ltd

Jakob UK, a division of MMA Architectural Systems, is the UK’s leading supplier and installer of architectural Stainless Steel Wire Ropes, Webnet Wire Mesh, and Rods. All of which are engineered and manufactured using high-grade 316 Stainless Steel at Jakob’s state-of-the-art production plant in Switzerland.

With over 30 years’ experience as the sole distributor of Jakob products in the UK, our expert team supports architects, fabricators, and contractors through every phase of a project, from concept and technical design through to supply, installation and ongoing maintenance.

EUROCELL LAUNCHES SURESPEC TO SET NEW COMPLIANCE STANDARDS FOR WINDOW AND DOOR SPECIFICATION

Building Products Index Ltd Doors, PVC-U, PVC-U, Windows Leave a Comment

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Eurocell has become the UK’s first systems house to take full control of the window and door specification process with the launch of SureSpec, a fully audited model designed to eliminate gaps between design intent and final installation.

SureSpec is currently the only fully audited, end-to-end specification system for windows and doors. Its purpose is to ensure that what is specified is exactly what is manufactured, delivered and installed on each project.

The system tackles a well-known challenge in the industry where window and door specifications are often inconsistent, recycled from past projects, and frequently fail to reflect modern compliance requirements.

Its launch comes at a time when the need for clarity and accountability in specification has never been greater and is critical to the progress and overall success of projects. Regulatory expectations have surged following major updates to Parts L, F and Q of the Building Regulations, alongside the introduction of the Building Safety Regulator’s Gateway process.

Since late 2023, fewer than 11% of Gateway 2 applications for higher-risk new-build projects have been approved, with documentation gaps contributing to delays across the sector – indicating the importance of the issue.

Meanwhile, the government’s incoming Home Energy Model (HEM), replacing SAP, will require project teams to use accurate, product-specific performance and carbon data. Generic or inaccurate window and door specifications will not meet compliance thresholds – reinforcing why the launch of SureSpec comes at a pivotal moment.

Gary Doxey, Commercial Manager at Eurocell, says SureSpec answers these challenges and gives everyone across the project supply chain confidence in the full specification and delivery process:

“The industry needs precision, proof and accountability, and Eurocell is taking ownership of the entire fenestration specification process so what’s specified is what gets built.

“The window and door specifications we produce as part of SureSpec contain performance, reinforcement, carbon, hardware and testing data that alternative products can’t match. Changing to a non-equivalent system after specification, would risk non-compliance, delays and potentially significant costs.

“Eurocell is the only system house with the technical infrastructure to deliver this, meaning we can support social housing, student accommodation, BTR, residential and commercial schemes with a level of assurance that, in our view, can’t be matched by other providers.”

SureSpec has been designed to support every stakeholder involved in the window and door journey:

  • Architects receive accurate, performance-led NBS specifications with carbon data already embedded.
  • Surveyors are given a complete Eurocell specification with all reinforcement, loading and integration requirements defined, removing ambiguity at quotation stage.
  • Main contractors benefit from locked specifications and clearer accountability, reducing the risk of costly variations or non-compliant installations.
  • Fabricators receive window-by-window manufacturing drawings that eliminate guesswork.
  • Installers are supported with practical mini-manuals.

All this is underpinned with an on-site audit carried out by Eurocell, which verifies the installation matches the original design intent.

In addition to improving compliance and consistency, SureSpec strengthens sustainability performance by embedding accurate carbon and recycling data, underpinned by Eurocell’s closed-loop PVC-U recycling capabilities, directly within each specification. This ensures project teams can meet future HEM requirements and support broader ESG commitments.

Gary added:

“SureSpec represents a major shift in specification culture. Launching the scheme is just the beginning, we will continue to expand the audit model, integrate additional digital tools and build on our technical capabilities. This is about embedding a ‘do it once, do it right’ approach across the industry.”

For more information about SureSpec, visit: https://www.eurocell.co.uk/surespec

Retaining Wall Value – What matters?

Building Products Index Ltd retaining walls Leave a Comment

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The use of dry-laid modular concrete block-faced reinforced soil retaining walls in the construction sector is no longer new news or seen as innovative. They have been used successfully for the last 4 decades to bring value to the civil engineering community from private housing developments through to major infrastructure projects. A lot has already been published on the monetary cost savings this technology brings when compared to more historical methods of forming retaining walls, like precast concrete, for example. But additional value to all parties is brought by the considerable reduction in the carbon footprint and often a large saving in time. Clients, contractors and consulting engineers all benefit from the value they bring.

Maccaferri have been successfully using their MacWall system for over 25 years in the UK and Ireland construction sectors. So, what have we learned, and what is important when considering specifying or building one?

Experience. Being able to draw on over 70 years of experience, hundreds [possibly thousands] of projects in Infrastructure, housing and other sectors, plus tens of thousands of m² of wall face give Maccaferri a unique insight into providing the right solution for that given project

Independent certification and testing. Specifiers and clients can take comfort in knowing that the chosen retaining wall system has been independently tested and certified as fit for use. The MacWall reinforced soil retaining wall can be supplied with its own system BBA HAPAS certificate

Sound design principles backed up by relevant insurances is important. A retaining wall is only as good as its design and installation. Understanding the project-specific geotechnical challenges, water conditions, and loading criteria is a must for a safe design to be carried out. Maccaferri invest in its own professional indemnity insurance as part of its committed technical backup and support. This backs up Maccaferri, providing a design and supply service in-house by taking element design responsibility for the retaining wall system; this service is often used by housebuilders and civil engineering contractors. Maccaferri can also offer technical support to consultants wishing to design themselves. i.e. we are tailoring our offer to meet the market needs.

Project cost savings. Clients and contractors alike want to use this technology to save money from their bottom line. Reinforced soil retaining walls and the MacWall system give considerable monetary gains when compared to RC walls, independent published papers show this to be as much as a 70% saving. But as well as this, and probably offering a greater saving to them, is the potential use of ‘non-standard’ fills within the retaining wall itself. The potential to switch away from carbon-intensive quarried aggregates that may need to be shipped large distances, to the potential use of suitable site won fills or industry waste products offer vast monetary [ and carbon!] savings. Each project Maccaferri has worked on had its own unique challenges. If the MacWall system supported a highway, a traditional specification for the fill materials was adopted to satisfy the adopting authority and the appropriate design method, but if project criteria were less stringent, say for a housing development, and the asset owner is on board, then non-standard fills should be considered.

Concluding, the versatility of using a modular block reinforced soil retaining wall system has been giving added value to stakeholders in the construction industry for many years, as covered above, and I expect for many more years to come. This technology is no longer new or unknown but is now part of everyday civil engineering use. The specifier, the contractor and the client need to have confidence in the system they chose and use and in turn, the value it brings will benefit them. Maccaferri’s MacWall system has all these plus more and will continue to be a leader in the retaining wall market.