Surveyor Link Limited

Underfloor heating a commercially viable alternative to radiators a new study finds

Uncategorized

A new study into the installation costs of underfloor heating versus traditional radiators has shown that the underfloor heating option is far more economical than is generally perceived.

The study, conducted by force drying specialist, ForceDry, was based on data from leading contractors for installations in a one, two and three bedroom property.

Three specifications were included: traditional radiators and 75mm sand & cement screed, traditional radiators with a 50mm flowing screed, and a 50mm flowing screed with underfloor heating.

The findings showed that, for an 80m2 dwelling, installation costs for the sand and cement approach range from £3,003.72 to £3,483.10; for a 50mm flowing screed with radiators costs start at £3,163.72 to £3,563.10 and for a 50mm flowing screed with underfloor heating costs range from £3,464.63 and £4,082.30. The costs for the underfloor heating approach also includes force drying, which facilitates fast, safe drying of liquid screed floors. This approach reduces drying time typically from around 90 days to as little as 28 days, representing a significant time saving and additional cost saving in the construction process.

Ross Verity, managing director of ForceDry, said: “There is a perception that underfloor heating is expensive and only practical in commercial terms for installation in higher end properties. However, our study shows that the underfloor heating method is only marginally more expensive to install than radiators, but when combined with force drying with the considerable cost benefits of the time saved factored in, the overall costs could actually be less. This means underfloor heating with a flowing screed can be a viable solution for all kinds of housing, including social and affordable.”

Verity also points to the environmental benefits of using liquid gypsum screed flooring, which comprise 98% recycled waste material, require less energy to produce and, because it is thinner, uses less material. These factors result in a carbon footprint over 70% lower than that of sand and cement screeds.

Verity said: “This approach is economical to install, environmentally friendly and performs very efficiently. It can save developers and property owners time and money during build and allows them to offer a superior product specification. Home owners and tenants then benefit from the comfort, economy and low maintenance this kind of system offers.”

Continue Reading

Top trends by Smart Homes and Home Automation Market 2018 is expected to Witness a Sustainable Growth by 2025 by Intel Corporation, NXP Semiconductor, Qualcomm Incorporated, and Mediate.

Uncategorized

Global Smart Homes and Home Automation Market is expected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of +14.87%. The base year considered for the study is 2018 and the forecast period considered is 2018 To 2025.

Posted via Industry Today. Follow us on Twitter @IndustryToday Continue Reading

Role model of the year announced at UK Construction Week

Uncategorized

Breaking down barriers in construction, Arleta Andreasik-Paton, an engineering project manager at Aecom, has been awarded Role Model of the Year at UK Construction Week (UKCW).

Recognised for her passion for inspiring the next generation into construction, Arleta was presented with her award by Steph McGovern, journalist at BBC Breakfast and Barbara Res, the female engineer behind Trump Tower, at UKCW on 10 October.

Judged by Nottingham Academy for Girls, the students awarded Arleta for her determination to strive within the construction industry and were entertained by her own inspiration – wanting to build her own house after watching her dad and grandad build an extension.

Mairead Gallagher, BIM coordinator at Allford Hall Monaghan Morris, and Christina Riley, senior construction planner and an equality, diversity and inclusion champion at Kier Group, were both highly commended.

The students were also particularly impressed by Avi Contracts’ project surveyor, Anjali Pindoria, for her continued efforts encouraging black, Asian and minority ethnic people into the construction industry.

Arleta said:

“When Steph started talking and I realised I had won I got quite emotional. It means so much that the students chose me and could identify with my story. I’m not from a construction background, but I moved into the industry with transferrable skills, studied while on the job and here I am now. It’s a privilege to be able to become a role model for other talented young people who can find wonderful careers in construction.”

Nathan Garnett, UKCW event director, said:

“Our role models initiative aims to encourage new talent into the industry, and this campaign gave us a fantastic opportunity to work with Nottingham Academy for Girls. We have loved hearing directly from the students about what inspires them.

“There can of course only be one winner, but all those shortlisted can be proud of the hard work, dedication and ultimately, the change that they are bringing to the construction industry.”

Arleta and all of the shortlisted role models will continue to take part in activities with schools and colleges to break down barriers and stereotypes associated with construction.

Much discussion has taken place around diversity and changing the industry’s image during UK Construction Week. Role models have been taking part in seminars alongside expert speakers on political correctness and tips on creating a more diverse workplace.

Keynote speaker, Barbara Res, also encouraged women in construction to talk to each other and not to blame themselves when faced with discrimination.

www.ukconstructionweek.com

Continue Reading