Building on Success? UK Construction and the 2018 Budget

The building trade has always needed to keep a sharp eye on the Budget. Between a looming skills shortage and an uncertain Brexit deal, firms across the industry were looking to Chancellor Philip Hammond to throw his weight behind them this year. Here are a couple of the key headlines:

PFI and PF2 are out

Private Finance Initiatives, according to Mr. Hammond, simply haven’t been good value for money. Partnerships between the public and private sectors are still very much part of the picture, but not in the form of current PFI or PF2 deals.

The Chancellor talked about PFIs failing to “transfer risk” to the private sector – wording that’s already raising a few hackles – but existing contracts will still be honoured.

Tax breaks for non-residential buildings

New, permanent tax relief is coming in for non-residential structures, in the form of a Structures and Buildings Allowance.

Buildings can qualify once put into professional use, to the tune of 2% per year on eligible construction costs.

Renovation and conversion of existing commercial structures can also qualify. Some of the cash for this is coming from adjusting the special writing down rate to 6%.

Housing

With his sights set on 650,000 new homes, Mr. Hammond pumped an additional £500 million into the Housing Infrastructure Fund.

The fund now stacks up to a grand total of £5.5 billion overall. “Strategic partnerships” with housing associations are apparently set to deliver 13,000 homes in England, while SME homebuilders will have the support of up to £1 billion in British Business Bank guarantees.

Lifting the local authority borrowing cap could see a new generation of council house building.

Roads

£30bn of road spending was announced including a £25.3bn allocation for the second Road Investment Strategy (RIS2), which will be delivered by Highways England between April 2020 and March 2025.

A further £3.5bn is set aside for National Roads Fund for UK-wide and local major road schemes between 2020 and 2025, funded by vehicle excise duty.

Local authorities have been granted an extra £420m to fix potholes and carry out other repairs to infrastructure, along with £150m to carry out minor works on local road junctions.

What does it all mean?

As the UK’s last Budget as an EU member, there was a lot to chew over. Frozen fuel duty and a focus on roads will be welcome, as will some strong moves on the housing crisis.

The death of PFI is a concern to many, though – along with incoming rules on private firms with self-employed workforces.

Greater investment in the construction industry, both for minor works and major development projects is good news.

Spending commitments for the regions and money earmarked for transforming our high streets should provide some a boost to construction employment opportunities and spreading out job creation across the country.

Ideally these promises will encourage more people to join or return to the industry alleviating the current skills shortage by linking this investment to training and job creation, such as the £695m funding package to train three million new apprentices this parliament.

There’s cautious talk of a “no-deal” Brexit requiring a fiscal rethink, but it does seem that UK construction is at least being taken seriously.

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3 Variables to Consider When Determining Asphalt Paving Costs

“How much is this going to cost me?”

This is, of course, one of the most-asked questions we get here at Wolf Paving. We understand the reasons why and would love to be able to give a simple response. However, every paving project is different and only rough estimates can be given until all the variables of each particular project are considered.

Here are a few of the most influential variables that can affect asphalt paving costs.

 

 

1. SOIL

The type of soil onto which the pavement will be poured on can affect the quote in a few different ways. Certain types of soil will require more compaction than others. Compaction removes excess air from the soil and makes a more dense, stable base for the asphalt. Also, certain types of soil may require the asphalt to be thicker than others.

Depending on the strength of the soil it may also need to be stabilized. Soil stabilization is the process in which the underlying soil's chemical and physical properties are altered to enhance its strength which will result in a level, long-lasting paved surface. 

Interested in learning more? Check out this video of a base stabilization project completed by Wolf Paving.

2. USAGE

How often do you have heavy trucks, like trash or delivery trucks, driving in the area you’re having paved?

If never, your asphalt may only need to be a few inches thick. However, if trucks ever drive on the area, even if infrequently, the paving needs to be thicker to withstand the extra pressure. In general, the thicker the asphalt, the more it can withstand and the longer it lasts.

3. SIZE

How big is your project? How much prep work will be required? Is it a straightforward project (e.g., a simple driveway) or something more complicated (e.g., with obstacles)? Before a job starts, an estimator will go out to your property for an evaluation. Typically, an estimator will look for the following things:

• Existing problem areas
• Any overhead obstructions or traversing of existing pavement
• How much traffic and weight the pavement will be expected to handle regularly 
• If your mailbox area is paved
• Electrical or private lines
• Obstructions that will need to be removed

All of these things, along with the repair methods being implemented, have an impact on the cost of your paving project. You can learn how to evaluate the current state of your asphalt and get a list of repair methods available to you by downloading our free Asphalt Paving Project Planning Guide.

We hope these examples of variables give you an idea of why estimates for asphalt paving costs are inexact until the site is analyzed. Wolf Paving will carefully assess your project, price the work honestly, and provide you the best, most long-lasting quality. 

Our focus is on keeping you informed and helping you make the best choices for your unique project. Contact our Oconomowoc or Sun Prairie offices today to get your free estimate.

Oconomowoc: (262) 965-2121  
Sun Prairie: (608) 249-7931

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Request for door hardware experts’ input into the future of CE marking

The status of CE marking on construction products in Europe is to be considered as part of a review of the Construction Products Regulation (CPR).

The CPR is periodically reviewed and as part of this, there is due to be a revision of Mandate M101 for doors, windows and construction hardware.

The Guild of Architectural Ironmongers (GAI) will be producing a response on behalf of the ironmongery industry and is calling for door hardware professionals to participate in a short survey. The results will be shared with BSI Committee B538/4 and ultimately with CEN Committees in Europe.

The survey asks for both GAI and Institute of Architectural Ironmongers (IAI) members’ opinions in relation to this topic, including which existing harmonised standards should remain harmonised under the CPR as well as their opinion on the necessity of CE marking of product relating to fire and escape doors.

Douglas Masterson, technical manager of the GAI, said:

“Any change to Mandate M101 is likely to have an impact on CE marking and harmonisation of products within the ironmongery industry. This survey is an opportunity for our membership to have an input and to help influence any significant decisions being made on an area of huge importance to our sector.”

Members have the opportunity to provide input into the final submission to the BSI Committee B538/4 until Friday 2 November.

For further detail on this survey please contact Douglas Masterson, GAI technical manager, on technical@gai.org.uk.

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Why move when you can improve? Ideas for adding value to your home

Instead of dealing with moving costs and time-consuming packing, invest in your current home and add value to it. There are many ideas that can be implemented that can transform your home into a brand-new abode. Just check out these ideas that can add value to your home.

Add some decorations

Decorations can add some simple value to your home in no time. Whether it is plants, ornaments, sculptures or paintings, you can be sure that adding a bit of decoration, colour, and character to your home will definitely improve its surroundings.

You can even get super creative and do some decorative DIY projects yourself. Some examples to consider are:

·         An indoor herb garden – Good Housekeeping have created a list of 10 Herbs you can grow indoors all year round. Some herbs include basil (great for pizza making), thyme (great for stews and pot pies), tarragon (used in béarnaise sauce) and sage (used in various meat recipes). An indoor herb garden can make a great addition to your kitchen; you can even create a herb wall garden as shown here on Pinterest.

• DIY centerpieces – Create your own centerpieces for your dining room. Add any flowers you enjoy or go with your own creative flow and add something special to you. Little pieces like these make a big difference to the room and add some personal value to your home.
• Candle making – Buy some wax, melt it, add your own fragrance oils and colour, and put it in a mould of your choice. Design as many candles as you wish; you can even gift a few to family and friends. Having candles in your home brightens the mood and atmosphere. Great scents are also provided!

Kit out your garden

Make use of any garden space you have. Purchase some equipment like a BBQ, lounge chairs and even consider a patio. Anything you do to improve your garden will reflect positively on your house.

Plant some of your favourite flowers or invest in some garden ornaments, water features or fairy lights to really make your garden feel magical!

If you have a large garden, consider adding extra special features like a pool or hot tub. Or if you’re into sports, add a basketball court or create an outside gym.

If you have children, you can even add some playground equipment so the whole family can enjoy their time in the garden.

Shed bars are also something to consider – you can invite friends over for a party, especially during summertime. It can be fairly expensive to renovate a shed into a bar, but it may be a feature that will provide enjoyment for years to come. Just look at some of these shed bars on Nextluxury.com – how easy it must be to grab a drink and enjoy the outside at the same time with style!

Add a conservatory

If you’re in need of extra space, why don’t you add a conservatory instead of moving house. A conservatory brings value, space and luxury to anyone’s home – that’s why they’re so popular!

Conservatories can range in price depending on the extension needed, and there may be some planning/building restrictions you may need to check out before committing to this idea. But if you have the spare cash and you have legal permission, add a conservatory and bring a bit more charm and space to your home.

Install some new windows

Windows can change a whole room or the whole house, depending on how many windows you want to add.

Allowing in more natural light can change your home for the better. Replacing old windows with larger ones, or adding in more windows to create a modern well-light appearance, can make your home airy and peaceful. Just make sure to get windows that are well-fitted and energy efficient – you’ll save money without sacrificing design!

Think about changing your lights

Just like windows, lights can affect the atmosphere and mood of your home. Certain lights can create certain moods. A dim-lit light creates a darker, romantic feeling, while brighter lights create energised surroundings.

You can even buy some led changing light bulbs to add some extra colour to your home. These ones on Amazon are rated high and are definitely something to consider buying.

Change the outside of your home

Some people forget that the outside of their home is just as important as the inside.

The outside foundation, walls and roof can be practical and aesthetically pleasing. If you’re into a modern look, consider revamping your roof to a flat roof. Certain roofers in Newcastle Upon Tyne are highly experienced and offer expert installations – something to really think about if you’re local or looking for some professional work to be done.

You outside walls are also important. You can paint your walls yourself or get an experienced painter to do it for you.

Consider white or a neutral brown for a nice modern look. Or, if you want to go crazy and creative, consider a colour like blue or red – pastel colours are also trendy at the moment and have a nice, soft appeal. Check out these examples of painted exteriors for inspiration!

Change the floors

The floors in your home can be comfortable, creative and add value to your home. Wooden flooring can create an aesthetic, modern appeal. Tiles can come in various shapes and sizes; some people even go all out and have murals on their floors!

Carpet is always a favourite with living rooms for an extra comfy feeling – just browse around in-store and pick the best option for you.

A change of flooring can make a dramatic change to your home – you just have to gather the courage to do it!

You’ll be surprised with the outcome of your home if you take some of these ideas and implement them, and we guarantee that it will be more fun redecorating and improving your current home than it would be trying to move out and start over again!

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A work van is broken into, and tools are stolen, every 23 minutes in the UK.

A work van is broken into, and tools are stolen, every 23 minutes in the UK.

Research from Powertools2U reveals that the average tool theft claim costs the tradesperson £1,692 – a figure that unfortunately, can sometimes be doubled with 50% of victims having had their tools stolen at least twice.

Powertools2U have analysed the tool theft epidemic, uncovering how much is stolen on average every year and how this can affect tradespeople both financially and mentally: https://www.powertools2u.co.uk/blog/tool-theft-in-the-uk/

The Results of the Tool Theft Epidemic

• In 2017, the average value of theft claims rose to £1,692, which was an increase of £253 from the year before.
• 50% of tradespeople who’ve experienced tool theft couldn’t work the next day, with some workers having to take a fortnight off.
• Being unable to work costs 50% of tradespeople at least £500.
• 75% of reported vehicle thefts are closed without identifying a suspect.
• Tool theft costs Britain’s tradespeople nearly £100 million a year.

With van break-ins becoming a bigger problem for tradespeople, Powertools2U have uncovered the worst cities for tool theft across the UK:

UK Tool Theft Hotspots:

1. London
2. Sheffield
3. Birmingham
4. Leicester
5. Chelmsford
6. Tunbridge Wells
7. Bristol
8. Nottingham
9. Northampton
10. Reading

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Preventing unauthorised access onto scaffolding and other work platforms

Following a rise in the number of people gaining unauthorised access to construction sites, particularly in residential areas, an alert is being issued to remind contractors and those in control of construction work involving scaffolding and access ladders, of the need to assess the site and ensure suitable and sufficient measures are in place to prevent members of the public, and especially children from climbing scaffolds and ladders.

 

Scaffolding and construction sites can often seems like a giant adventure playground for children, however the reality is that these sites are far from child’s play. Where unauthorised access has been gained, the frequent result is the trespasser falling from height incurring life changing injuries or a fatality. Clients and contractors must therefore ensure that unauthorised access onto scaffolding is prevented, not just outside working hours, but also at times when workers are present but out of sight.

Whilst members of the public and parents have a responsibility to take note of safety signs to deter them from entering construction sites, contractors must take greater effort to ensure that the very young are not able to climb onto scaffolding.  Ultimately however, there is no way to guarantee that an able, determined person will not defeat security measures. This safety alert is therefore not aimed at preventing all, determined trespassers, vandals or opportunistic thieves from finding a way onto a construction site.  It is simply designed to outline the basic measures that must be taken, many of which will also provide a degree of deterrence against those more able and determined to enter the site.

All contractors should carry out a site inspection to assess any potential risks and opportunities for trespassers to access the site. The level of security needed and the options available will depend on a number of factors which include:

–

The proximity to residential areas, schools and other public venues and whether the scaffold is inside a construction site or on the public boundary

Whether the building being worked on is occupied or not and whether it is occupied or in use out of hours . If it is unoccupied, what length of time is this for i.e. overnight, weekend or over a holiday period.

The number of access points to the scaffolding including the number of levels  that the scaffolding is on

 

• Level of lighting
• Level of privacy; is the access point onto the scaffold quiet or busy, hidden or overlooked?
• Existing level of security presence on the site; patrols, CCTV, active response to CCTV heat or motion trigger

At a minimum, all construction sites should have perimeter fencing which is continuous and fixed in place . Gaps between gates and the ground and between fixed and moveable fencing should be minimised so that small children cannot climb through or under. Site security should be regularly checked and reviewed to ensure perimeter fencing is kept in good order and that there are no materials, skips, plant, etc stored or parked where they may assist a trespasser to climb into the site.

In addition to the perimeter fencing, in some cases, the full length of the scaffold may need to be fenced. An example of this would be in occupied buildings or public spaces with access to the scaffold at several levels fencing should be used to close off all access opportunities.

The fencing should be installed as the scaffold is built, lift by lift, which means either writing this into the scaffold contract or having a separate contractor working with the scaffolding contractor so that there is no lag between the scaffold going up and fencing being fitted.

If it is not reasonably practicable for ladders at ground level to be removed, or have ladder guards fitted out of hours, then the area should be secured using padlocked fence panels. Where stair towers are fitted to the scaffold, access at ground and other levels should be prevented by padlocked fence panels.  The only exception is where scaffolding or stair towers form part of the planned public escape route of an occupied building.  In this instance, you must ensure that arrangements to stop unauthorised access will not interfere with evacuation of the building in the event of a fire.  However additional fencing or barriers should be installed to prevent anyone climbing away from the designated fire escape route.

Where possible, local fencing within the site should be kept in place during working hours so as to minimise the amount of work that has to be done at the end of  shift.  This will usually need a lockable access gate to be designed into the arrangement.

Where there are other routes onto the scaffold that cannot be fenced off e.g. onto higher lifts from sloping ground or balconies, it is good practice to still remove the ladder but the opening must then be blocked. It is important to note that ladders should not be removed where the route is designated out of hours for fire escape from an occupied building.

Ladder removal will in most cases achieve better control than a ladder guard however there are some instances  where it would not be practical to remove bottom lift ladders out of hours. A ladder guard is a sturdy metal plate that hooks over and padlocks onto several rungs of the ladder to deny access.

Whilst warning signage is appropriate, this is a low level of control and unlikely in itself to deter children. It is vital that the site risk assessment should be kept under review and reports of damage to site or local fencing or trespassing out of working hours should be investigated and security measures reviewed as a matter of urgency.

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LIVERPOOL WATERS CELEBRATES DOUBLE LETTING AT PRINCES DOCK

Princes Dock will soon be home to two new businesses following the completion of lettings at No. 1 and No. 12 Princes Dock, Liverpool Waters.

The residential property management company Amazon Management Services will be occupying 1,000 sq. ft of office space at No. 1 Princes Dock for the next five years, and the building and civil engineering firm McLaughlin & Harvey will be taking up 3,000 sq. ft at No. 12 Princes Dock.

Amazon Management Services’ move from Maghull in Sefton to the city centre will allow the company to manage its current property lettings portfolio, which spans across Liverpool City Region, whilst exploring new avenues and opportunities for the company.

For McLaughlin & Harvey, this move is an essential one. The organisation has been working closely with Liverpool City Council on the design and construction of the new Cruise Liner Terminal at Princes Dock, following a successful tendering process earlier this year. Having a waterfront office allows McLaughlin & Harvey to oversee the progress of the project whilst the Cruise Liner Terminal is built.

Sue Weir, director at Amazon Management Services, said:

“Relocating our base to Liverpool Waters is an exciting new chapter for Amazon Management Services, which perfectly coincides with our vision to expand our property letting portfolio to multi-storey residential apartment buildings and commercial spaces in the city centre and across Merseyside. We’re confident that our new headquarters will help us to achieve this vision.”

John Mariner, contract director at McLaughlin & Harvey, said:

“Due to the close proximity to the new Liverpool Cruise Liner Terminal, it makes perfect sense for us to relocate our team to this space at Princes Dock. It is fantastic to be right in the middle of the action as Liverpool Waters continues to take shape, and we’re looking forward to seeing how the project will continue to pick up pace, as well as how the Liverpool Cruise Liner Terminal will look once it has been completed.”

Liza Marco, asset manager at Liverpool Waters, said:

“We are delighted to be able to announce not one, but two new tenants moving to Liverpool Waters. We trust that both Amazon Management Services and McLaughlin & Harvey will enjoy all the amenities that Princes Dock has to offer.

“Due to some recent high-profile moves and the completion of over 45,000 sq. ft of office space in the past 12 months, Princes Dock is a real hive of activity and home to some world-renowned businesses. With so many organisations choosing Liverpool Waters as their base, we are pleased to see the area thriving and recognised as such a popular destination for organisations from a range of different sectors.

“After securing these two leases, our focus is to now fill the remaining suites available at Princes Dock and also seek tenants for pre-lets at No 5 Princes Dock.”

To learn more about the Liverpool Waters Development project led by Peel Land and Property (Ports) Limited, please visit www.liverpoolwaters.co.uk.

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