BAL Micromax3 ECO: performance, control, sustainability

With all the qualities of BAL Micromax2, the new BAL Micromax3 ECO grout delivers enhanced product performance, improved useability and added eco-benefits.

Available in-store NOW, BAL Micromax3 ECO grout provides everything an installer needs, to easily provide a perfect finish. Available in 36 colours, with a range of matching silicone sealants.

Enhanced performance, greater control

With longer-lasting and improved Microban® antimicrobial protection providing non-hazardous protection against black mould and mildew, as well as an efflorescence-free formulation and locked-in colour consistency, Micromax3 ECO provides the ultimate long-lasting finish for your tiling project.

BAL Micromax3 ECO is OPC-free and sets in 2 to 3 hours for fast-track project completion. The new grout is now also suitable for swimming pools and can be used up to 30mm joints widths with no shrinking or cracking.

Despite the market-leading position of Micromax2, for the development of the new technology, further improvements were made to provide even greater control for fixers – including easier clean-off, even on textured tiles and less haze after initial clean-off.

BAL Micromax3 ECO is a lower dust formulation relative to conventional, OPC-based grouts – reducing waste and mess for the fixer, as well as being a safer product to use.

Easier to mix and apply – especially on walls with no slumping – BAL Micromax3 ECO also has improved colour consistency and is suitable for ALL tile types. The development of rapid-hardening chemistry means the water is maintained within the grout, virtually eliminating the risk of water staining even on natural stone.

Sustainability without compromise

The world is changing and that means we must reduce our environmental impact.

Produced in recyclable packaging, Micromax3 ECO is manufactured with over 25% recycled materials with no loss of performance.

With an EC1 Plus EMICODE designation, Micromax3 ECO achieves the best classification under the EMICODE system. BAL Micromax 3 is also non-hazardous, whilst also providing excellent anti-microbial protection.

OPC-free for a reduced carbon footprint, BAL Micromax3 also has a 2-year shelf life in 2.5kg and 5kg sizes (with all packaging 100% recyclable) and grouts can be part mixed for multiple use. This ensures less waste on-site for the fixer, while being better for the environment.

Alex Underwood, Head of Marketing at BAL said: “The next generation of grouts, BAL Micromax3 ECO provides the leading technology to ensure a new benchmark in grout performance, with guaranteed long-lasting results and added eco-benefits.

“Micromax3 ECO delivers market-leading solutions, with all the benefits of Micromax2 including the use of >25% recycled raw materials; a superior smooth finish, high flexibility and durability time and time again.

“Tilers demanded and we listened, delivering advanced technology with greater useability including easier clean-off and less haze.

“Made in the UK, with 36 colours and a range of matching Micromax Sealants, BAL Micromax3 ECO delivers best-in-class results.”

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BAL moves to more environmentally friendly packaging

BAL – market leaders for tiling solutions in the UK – have continued to develop its sustainable business focus with the introduction of more 100% recycled plastic containers.

From material sourcing, through to product launch, the environment impacts remain a key focus within all BAL’s processes and environmental management.

As a result, the business continues to remove the use of single-use plastics and transition wherever possible to 100% recycled plastics across all their product ranges where plastic is still required.

This has already been introduced to BAL’s liquid category with new PCR recycled bottles (grey bottle colour, rather than white) and now notable with their ready-to-use range of adhesives.

A greener “Green Star”

In the coming weeks, BAL will also be moving to 100% recycled plastic buckets and lids for their popular Green Star range of ready-mixed tile adhesive for small ceramic wall tiles.

This change will then be rolled out across further products in the coming months.

Alex Underwood, Head of Marketing and Customer Services at BAL, said: “The new packaging can be easily identified as the lid is now dark grey rather than the original green, with the first 10,000 units in the market having a printed lid with the “made using 100% recycled plastic” communication visible.

“As well as the sustainability benefits from not using virgin plastics, there is also an increase in the level of performance of the new buckets. The bucket’s base strength has increased from 65kg to 125kg meaning the product is now more resilient than ever.”

The increase in strength also provides the future option of possible higher product stacking on pallets which would also reduce transportation carbon emissions per unit.

As well as the entire bucket and lid being made from 100% recycled plastic, the original plastic handle has been replaced with a metal one which is 100% recyclable, recoverable and more robust.

Alex added: “The change in packaging will not impact on supply of Green Star or on our customer’s current operations, but offers distributors, contractors and fixers a more sustainable product.”

For more information on the change please email balmarketing@building-adhesives.com

New venture Belvedere Stone joins forces with BAL

Launching this month (February), Belvedere Stone is part of the Lovell Stone Group, a family-owned company who own and operate 5 quarries in the UK.

The company has taken its significant knowledge and technical expertise and applied that to source stones from around the world.

Belvedere Stone offers a collection of excellent quality, hard-wearing and versatile stone products. Stones are sourced from historical areas around the world from the Tuscany region of Italy, to the mountains of North Western Vietnam. Each stone takes its name from the surrounding cultural landscape – from the Taishan Mountains of Southern China, to the ancient Egyptian palace complex of Malkata.

They offer a full NBS fixing, sealing and maintenance specification for all of their stones for contractors to follow; ensuring their stones are installed according to current British Standards and that all tenders for installation will be like-for-like.

In addition, Belvedere has partnered with BAL – the market leaders in the UK for full tiling solutions – who offer high quality fixing materials; adhesives, grouts, sealants etc, plus industry-leading technical support, RIBA-approved CPD seminars, NBS specifications and on-site project consultancy.

Using their experience in the specification sector, Belvedere compiled a shortlist of the best adhesive manufactures operating in the UK. They interviewed and scored each company on quality, technical competence and warranty to find the most professional company, with research providing a clear winner in BAL.

Speaking about the launch of the new brand, Simon Willmott, Technical Sales Manager at Lovell Stone Group said: “With decades of experience in the tile and stone industry both as an installer and latterly a specifier, I became disheartened with the influx of stone products on the market in the UK which did not comply with Building Regulations, British Standards and European regulations.

“I had visited too many projects in the UK where low quality stone, poor installation and maintenance systems had resulted in disappointment for the end user; creating a misconception that stone was a problematic and difficult material to work with.

“Over the last year, countless samples of stone have been sourced, tested and dismissed from all over the globe, leaving us with a very robust and unique collection of stones. We have applied the same rigorous testing methods to fixing and sealing materials, which allows us to offer a complete, warrantied specification for stone installation.”

On the partnership with BAL, he added: “Belvedere Stone’s world leading expertise in stone is matched by BAL’s world leading expertise in adhesives, allowing us to provide complete and robust NBS fixing specifications for Architects and contractors.

“Being able to provide one specification for complete installation eliminates any incompatibility between products, and by being involved in projects at the design and specification stage, we offer warrantied systems alongside reduced build ups, reduced build programmes and reduced budgets.

“Architects will benefit from our free NBS specification writing service, contractors will benefit by ensuring that specialist subcontractors are quoting on a like-for-like basis, and homeowners will benefit from BAL’s 25-year materials warranty.”

Allan Garland, Specification Manager at BAL said: “We are delighted to have entered into this partnership with Belvedere Stone to provide a one-stop solution for their natural stone tiling products.

“With both companies excelling in product innovation, technical excellence and customer service, BAL and Belvedere Stone are natural partners.  Our company values are clearly aligned, with the additional benefit of both being British companies.”

To find out more about Belvedere Stone and their range of stone products visit www.belvederestone.com.

BAL launches three new RIBA-approved CPDs

BAL have launched three new RIBA-approved CPD Seminars for architects, specifiers and contractors.

BAL have launched a new Large Format CPD

The CPDs, entitled “Tiling to Internal Walls with Large Format Tiles”, “Tiling to Swimming Pools” and “Tiling in Wet Rooms” provide attendees with up-to-date technical information, highlight British and European Standards and provide guidance on problem solving solutions and how to avoid potential failures.

“Tiling to Internal Walls and Large Format Tiles” aims to inform and educate about the key issues in choosing and installing large format tiles and panels, helping the audience to gain confidence in specifying these in any project. Key topics include design considerations, best practice, H&SE considerations, adhesive and grout selection, joint widths and movement joints.

“Tiling to Wet Rooms” navigates the various elements of wet rooms and shower design by looking at key practical steps including potential issues, designing the rooms, solutions to common issues, identifying waterproofing products and systems that work together. It aims to provide a step-by-step guide to avoid problems associated with wet areas including leakage, inadequate waterproofing and poor installation methods.

The third and final new CPD – “Tiling to Swimming Pools” provides an in-depth discussion on types of swimming pool, design considerations, screeds and renders, tile types, adhesive and grout selection and movement joints, as well as information on pool chemistry and pool filling and emptying, taking into account British and European standards and current codes of practice drawn from key industry bodies.

Stuart Ross, Head of Specifications at BAL, said: “The three new CPDs increase our portfolio to eight seminars, each focusing on a different element of tiling and tiling design solutions and created specifically with architects in mind to fulfil their annual CPD requirements.

“Lasting no more than 45 minutes, each CPD helps bring architects and specifiers up-to-date with the latest technical information and standards to ensure they specify the correct products for their tiling installations – whether these are large commercial or small domestic projects.”

Other RIBA-approved CPD seminars on the BAL range include: External Tiling Solutions for Balconies and Terraces, Floor Tiling Solutions for the Modern Build, Tiling Solutions for Heavily Trafficked Areas, Tiling Solutions for Leisure Centre, and Specifying Natural Stone.

To book BAL’s new RIBA-approved CPDs at your practice please contact Janet Webster on 01782 591120, email training@building-adhesives or visit bal-adhesives.com/specifiers/riba-approved-cpds/

BAL goes greener with new energy deal



BAL – market-leaders in full tiling solutions – have signed a new 24-month energy contract with a 100% renewable energy provider.

Beginning this month, the Stoke-on-Trent-based manufacturer of tile adhesives, grouts, levellers and other ancillary tiling products will be supplied by Ørsted – a Danish company that leads the world in offshore wind.

Formed as DONG Energy in 2006 following the merger of six Danish energy companies, Ørsted have completed divested their black energy operations and have established themselves with a 25% market share in offshore wind operations.

On a global scale, they have built enough offshore wind to power 9.5 million people, with an ambition by 2025 to power 30 million people with offshore wind.

In 2017, Ørsted opened the world’s largest offshore wind turbines at Burbo Bank Extension in Liverpool Bay and continue to grow its offshore presence in UK waters.

Paul Vickers, Head of Procurement at BAL, said: “At BAL we are always looking at ways to cut our carbon footprint, from replacing our lighting systems with energy-saving LEDs to light detectors, replacement of steam boilers and new dedicated energy-saving air compressors.

“Moving to a 100% renewable energy provider is just another footstep on the path to being as carbon neutral as we can.

“Ørsted are a pioneering renewables firm – leading the world in offshore wind – and we are proud to have them as our energy provider.”

As well as numerous energy saving and waste recycling initiatives, BAL also supports Cool Earth – the environmental charity protecting rainforests worldwide.

Cool Earth works with local communities to protect imminently threatened rainforest and protectively blockades tens of thousands of acres of adjacent forest in the Amazon rainforest in Peru.

Alex Underwood, Head of Marketing added: “With our support, Cool Earth’s initiatives in the Ashaninka region have helped save 350 acres from deforestation.

“This means more than 80,000 trees have been protected with more than 90,000 tonnes of CO2 locked-in. This is particularly crucial has deforestation has played a massive part in the climate emergency we are currently dealing with.”

Encompassing all of BAL’s processes is continual improvement. The business is triple badges to all three management system standards (9001, 14001 and 18001) and it is currently working towards ISO 50001 Energy Management Standard.



BAL launches new architectural tiling surgeries

Due to the success of its CPD programme, BAL are launching  nationwide tiling surgeries at architectural practices across the country.

These sessions offer architects, specifiers and design teams in-house technical support with tile and stone advice or a simple Q & A session on any aspect of tiled installations..

With more than 50 years’ heritage of providing specifications and technical support to architects, specifiers and contractors, BAL is well placed to ensure that tiling projects run smoothly from design stage to completion.

Stuart Ross, Head of Specifications at BAL, commented: “We have listened to the feedback and recognise the growing demand from architects and designers for opportunities  to focus on particular types of advice when it comes to current project work.”

“This might include focused topics such as British Standards for waterproofing or suitability of substrates.  Our team of experts are now going to be on hand for architects and specifiers to discuss tile and stone installations of all kinds outside of the learning environment and in the comfort of their practice”.

“This will run alongside our successful CPD programme whilst complementing some of the additional services we provide to specifiers”

BAL has a number of free tools available to architects and specifiers to assist them from project start to completion including M40 NBS Specifications and on-site project support.

Specifiers and architects can also take advantage of BAL’s free and dedicated Technical Advisory and Specification Service (TAS) for technical queries and Sample Testing Service to ensure the correct selection of tiles and fixing products during the specification process.

BAL can provide a solution for any background, environment or tile material and is trusted throughout the industry for its quality and lasting performance.

To book tiling surgery at your practice: https://www.bal-adhesives.com/specifiers/book-a-tiling-surgery/

For more information on BAL and their services for specifiers visit www.bal-adhesives.com/specifiers or call 01782 591120.



Get closer to nature with new BAL Micromax2 colourways

Colours have been used throughout history as an unspoken language understood by all humankind and are popularly connected to seasonality and to mood.

Detail makes all the difference on tiling projects, which is why BAL – market-leaders in full tiling solutions – have introduced a range of new shades to the Micromax2 grout range that take influence from the natural environment and the changing seasons.

The 11 new shades take inspiration from the world around us and nature through changing seasons.

Four new Graphic Greys include: Storm Grey, Tornado Sky, Dovetail and Taupe Grey which are influenced by deep winter visions of dark and dramatic skies in every hue of grey.

Warm Woods; Walnut, Hazel and Mahogany evoke the rustic browns and earthen tones of Autumn.

Vivid Views featuring Primrose, Peppermint, Cornflower White and Pink Champagne evoke shades of greens, soft yellows and the natural light and vibrant splashes of Spring and Summer.

As urban design and nature collide and contrast, an ultra-modern vibe is guaranteed to delight the mind and senses and provide the perfect finish to any tiling project.

To find out more about these new colours, why not download our digital flipbook at https://mailchi.mp/building-adhesives.com/closer-to-nature

Unmatched Quality

Alex Underwood, Head of Marketing at BAL said: “Developed as a result of extensive R&D carried out in collaboration with tilers nationwide, BAL Micromax2 offers a combination of previously unseen properties to make it ideal for virtually any wall or floor installation.

“Its versatility removes the need for different grouts within a single installation: as BAL Micromax2 suits both the floors and the walls.

“The new colours offers fixers, homeowners and distributors alike a comprehensive suite of shades to complement or contrast with any tile type and tiling project.”

Superfine, consistent, strong, flexible, the world’s first genuinely universal grout, it can be used for grout joints as narrow as 1mm and as wide as 20mm with no slumping, shrinking and cracking.

Smooth, fine, consistent, versatile with in-built Microban anti-mould and anti-mildew protection, it sets within 2-3 hours for fast track tiling completion.

Now available in 20 striking shades to complement or contrast any tile or colour scheme, it also comes with a range of colour-matched silicone sealants (excluding Vivid Views).

Unlock potential for the materials used in your next tiling project to be just that touch closer to nature with BAL Micromax2.

Become a YOU+BAL partner  to be kept in the forefront with our new innovations and order a Grout Sample case today at www.bal-adhesives.com



BAL strengthens sales and specification support team

BAL have bolstered their specification team with two new hires.

Mark Lambourn joins the team as Specification Manager covering the Midlands and Wales. He has extensive experience in the construction sector working with architects, house/modular builders, contractors and building owners to deliver high quality specifications.

Based in Derby, Mark joins BAL from A Proctor Group Ltd, where he combined commercial and technical expertise to promote a portfolio of technically advanced thermal, acoustic and membrane system solutions, from specification through to project delivery. 

Also joining BAL is Richard Milligan who will work as Specification Manager for the North of England.

Originally from Bangor in Northern Ireland, but now living in Newcastle upon Tyne, Richard joins BAL from TPG The Parkside Group where his role was as an Architectural Advisor / Project Manager.

He previously spent more than 10 years with EGGER (UK) in production, sales and specification roles delivering high value projects and presenting CPDs within architectural practices.

Mark and Richard will work with architects, designers and specifiers supporting them on M40/M20 specifications, providing project support and delivering BAL’s suite of RIBA-approved CPDs.

Stuart Ross, Head of Specifications at BAL said: “We’re delighted to welcome Mark and Richard to the team to support all stakeholders in delivering long-lasting and high-quality tiling projects across the whole of the UK as part of our continued development and investment in the specification sector..

“This investment confirms BAL’s position as a leading brand for projects large and small, providing high quality tiling products along with  a host of support services for designers, architects and contractors to assist them from design to build.”

BAL has several free tools available to architects and specifiers to assist them from project start to completion including the company’s industry-renowned free and dedicated Technical Advisory Service (TAS) for specifications, technical queries and Sample Testing Services to ensure the correct selection of tiles and fixing products during the specification process.

Specifiers and architects can also take advantage of BAL’s comprehensive online tools and support including BIM library, fast track project advice, grout selector, industry news, technical tips and more. Simply visit www.bal-adhesives.com/specifiers

BAL can provide a solution for any background, environment or tile material and is trusted throughout the industry for its quality and lasting performance.



BAL Flexbone 2Easy named Best Innovation at industry awards



BAL – market-leaders in full tiling solutions – are celebrating after their unique floating uncoupling mat was voted the Best Innovation at The Tile Association Awards 2019.

BAL Flexbone 2Easy is a truly uncoupled solution. The uncoupling mat is laid loose on the subfloor – preparation can be reduced to just a quick sweep of the floor, provided it is flat, level and sound. This means the product can be used over mastic asphalt, mixed substrates, bitumen, screeds with laitance, contaminated screeds and screed with cracks.

Designed with perforations, vapour channels and a mesh weave reinforcement, the system ventilates and uncouples the covering from the substrate in a single process – permanently and reliably.

Any residual moisture in the substrate is evenly distributed through a system of channels and then drawn off through the perforations in the mat via the grout joints. In this way, substrates that are still damp are not encapsulated.

This means the mat can be laid on fresh screeds including sand:cement when it’s walkable, and anhydrite screeds at 1.5% Carbide Method water content (usually minimum 0.5% CM water content is required before tiling). Saving on preparation can save up to 50% of the total installation time.

Alex Underwood, Head of Marketing at BAL, said: “We’re absolutely delighted and of course honoured that BAL Flexbone 2Easy has named as the Best Innovation of the year at the TTA Awards.

“BAL Flexbone 2Easy is a truly unique and innovative product for the British market – there are no other uncoupling mats out there that can be loose-laid over unprepared substrates – significantly saving time and money and overcoming sub-floor problems.

“The product has already seen a phenomenal uptake in the UK and an extremely positive reaction from fixers, contractors and specifiers, and this award is just testament to the innovative features of this product.”

As well as BAL Flexbone 2Easy, BAL also have three other uncoupling options on its range including BAL Flexbone VAried, a bonded waterproof system, BAL Rapid-Mat, a lightweight, thin uncoupling mat which one Best Innovation in 2015 and BAL Single Part FastFlex – a unique one-part S2 adhesive that also acts as an uncoupling layer



Raising the Standard

BAL – market leaders for full tiling solutions – are revolutionising the standard-set category with new adhesive technology; BAL Flex One.

Fixers always want to finish an installation as quickly as possible. Often rapid-setting adhesives are preferred to ensure grouting can begin quickly. However, this can provide challenges during installation.

With its ‘One’ rapid-set technology, BAL have previously helped fixers with its rapid-setting products that provide significantly longer open and working times than all other rapid-set products but are still ready to grout in 3 hours.

With ever larger tiles growing in popularity, complex designs required, possibly difficult or irregular backgrounds on-site and even hotter temperatures being experienced now in the summer months; the use of even improved rapid-set adhesives still may not provide enough open, working or adjustability time for a fixer.

The UK market has seen other ‘semi-rapid’ products also launched, which are essentially based on over-retarded rapid-set formulations.

When traditional rapid-set chemistry is retarded to get a longer open and working time, there is a limit on how much the cement chemistry can be retarded before strength development is adversely affected.

Heavily retarded rapid-sets may also have performance limitations or suffer in on-site conditions where the required  working and open times may not be achieved, as the product increases in viscosity and application becomes more difficult.

However, the new BAL technology is the first truly enhanced standard-set technology – developed from traditional standard-set chemistry as a basis. 

Long open and working time performance will always be achieved more consistently using a standard set adhesive, or a product using this chemistry as a basis.

In response to customer demand, BAL’s market-leading R&D team have developed an enhanced standard set adhesive with a long open time, excellent non-slip properties and may be grouted in as little as 6 hours. Something that has never been achieved before.

BAL Flex One provides a truly innovative technology that raises the standard.

Set Your Own Pace

BAL Flex One give fixers longer working and open times– but still has a faster setting time prior to grouting.

Outperforming other products with an excellent 2.5 hour working time and a 45-minute open time at 20°C – this allows more working time to fix in warmer conditions (and less wastage in buckets), more time to adjust larger tiles, and more time when working on particularly complex installations.

With a 6-hour set time, the new adhesive allows fixers to grout in the evening or early the next day – significantly cutting down installation time compared to traditional standard setting products that require up to 24 hours to set!

Freedom to Perform

Fixer friendly, BAL’s new standard set technology also provides outstanding usability – helping to overcome the many obstacles that face fixers on a modern project.

With one of the thickest bed depths on the market for standard sets up to 15mm and, the formulation helps fixers to overcome some background irregularities where isolated building out may be required.

What’s more, it utilises technology first developed by BAL including super smooth gel rheology, a thixotropic formulation with shape memory, and full wettability where there is no need to adjust the water content to get the full performance benefits.

The new adhesives also have superb non-slip performance, easily exceeding the requirements of EN 12004 for “T” rated adhesives.

A true all-rounder

Highly flexible with S1 deformability, BAL Flex One is suitable for use with all tile types including ceramic, porcelain, natural stone – mosaics, terrazzo, brick slips and uncalibrated stone (for floors).

Suitable for interior and exterior applications and in dry and wet environments, the adhesives are particularly recommended for large format wall and floor tiles and may be used for swimming pools and total immersion and showers.

Because of its flexibility, BAL Flex One can be used on installations subject to limited movement and vibration, plus underfloor heating, including heated cement; sand screed sub-floors and electric undertile floor heating cable systems.

BAL Flex One has excellent grab and can be used on existing soundly bonded unglazed ceramic tiles, quarry tiles, terrazzo and natural stone tiles .

The adhesives are white in colour, meaning that only one bag is needed whether you’re tiling with natural stone, ceramic or porcelain tiles.



Major investment in sales and support teams

BAL, the market-leader for full tiling solutions,  has made a significant investment in its sales, support and specification teams to provide a greater service provision to tilers, contractors, specifiers and distributors.

The Stoke-on-Trent-based manufacturer has doubled its sales team, while additionally creating a new Training and Technical Support Team of five and adding to its Specification Support Team.

Joining the BAL team as Area Sales Managers (ASMs) are; Lewis Lupton (Northern England and Scottish Borders), Geoff Cavell (East Midlands), Michael Maher (M5/M40 Corridor, Beds, Bucks and Herts) , Richard Homan (Kent and Sussex) and Andy Oates (London).

Also joining is John Stewart who will act as Regional Sales Manager for Yorkshire while Simon Harding has been promoted to Regional Sales Manager for East Anglia. Both John and Simon will have additional responsibilities plus managing key accounts.

To accommodate the expanded team, current BAL ASMs have had their areas of responsibility reassigned as follows: John Hunter (Scotland to Central and Northern Scotland), Martin Chappell (M56 Corridor to Staffordshire, North West and North Wales), Keiron Birch (Midlands to West Midlands, Central, South and West Wales), and Nick Harman (London and South East to Hants, Berks and Surrey)

Paul Glover will remain as ASM for the South West.

In addition, BAL have appointed Debi Boulton as Head of Sales. Debi previously worked as Sales and Marketing Manager for sister brand Dunlop and has been with the business for nearly 20 years.

Commenting on the investment, David Lyman, BAL Sales Director said: “The addition of six new members of the sales team means that we can cover more areas of the country and provide a greater of level of support to our customers. This means more face-to-face visits, more trade events and more product training.

“As part of our investment, our Area Sales Managers will be getting more “hands-on” at trade events and work as a link between our distribution network and their customers including on-site project support and specifications where required.

“Debi joins having delivered significant sales growth for Dunlop and with a wealth of experience in the industry has the knowledge and skills to deliver for both BAL and our partners.”

The new Training and Technical Support team will be led by Dave Rowley, BAL Training Manager and will assist the Area Sales Managers for larger trade events, training for fixers and contractors and trade counter staff on-site, and technical support on larger projects.

The team will work nationwide as and when called upon – working closely with BAL’s Technical Advisory and Specification Service (TAS).

“Training and Technical Support continues to be at the forefront of what we stand for as the market-leader for full tiling solutions,” added David.

“Having a dedicated team means we can provide additional support for fixers, contractors and distributors – including the option to deliver more practical and bespoke training courses both on-site or at our multi-purpose and high spec Innovation and Technology Centre.”

Specification Support Team

BAL has expanded its Specification Team support with the appointment of Keith Pearce as Specification Manager for London and the South East.

Keith has nearly 30 years’ experience in the construction industry, including 26 years at CEMEX – one of the UK’s leading suppliers of cement, ready mix concrete, screeds and aggregates.

He held numerous roles including technical manager, training advisor and operations supervisor. Latterly involved in working with architects closely on specifications Keith brings a wealth of technical experience to the role.

In addition, BAL have promoted Stuart Ross to Head of Specifications. Stuart previously worked as BAL’s Technical Services Advisory Supervisor working closely with the Specification team over the years on some key projects, with previous experience as Business Development Manager for CPDs and Specifications.

Commenting on his and Keith’s appointment, he said: “We are extremely pleased to welcome Keith to the team. Bringing with him a wealth of technical and architectural, solution-based knowledge and experience, Keith is a superb addition to our growing team of experts, complementing our strategic plans for the future of Specification at BAL.

“I am delighted to be appointed Head of Specifications. It is a role which is at the heart of our business. My own passion has always been working closely and responsibly with architects, whether supporting through CPD presentations or providing technical guidance to ensure that they achieve a small but no less important aspect of their design and vision.”

Commenting on the appointment, David Lyman said: “I am delighted that Stuart has taken up the position as Head of Specifications and the appointment of Keith as Specification Manager for the South.

“Both Stuart and Keith are vastly experienced in specification sales and will greatly enhance our specification capabilities.”

New innovations at SDS 2019

BAL are presenting innovative new tiling technologies including its unique Flexbone uncoupling mats on Stand 618.

Developed to protect floor tiling from lateral movement which occurs in problem substrates – such as heated floors – BAL Flexbone uncoupling mats provide a buffer layer between tile and substrate.

BAL Flexbone comes in two varieties – Flexbone VAried and Flexbone 2Easy. Unique to the UK, BAL Flexbone 2Easy is a floating mat system – where NO adhesive is needed underneath the mat system i.e. the mat is truly uncoupled.

Because no adhesive is needed under the mat, preparation is reduced to a quick sweep of the floor if the surface is flat, sound and level. No removal or residue, no removal of laitance and no priming of the surface is needed. This means that contaminated and stained floors, wooden floors, bitumen, cracked screeds and mixed substrates can be tiled immediately.

It can also be used direct onto difficult substrates such as bitumen, fresh sand:cement screeds or new anhydrite screeds that are not fully cured (up to 1.5% CM residual moisture).

Time trials indicate the removal of subfloor preparation for installations provides a circa 50% time saving.

BAL Flexbone VAried is a bonded mat system for heavily trafficked areas. Waterproof, it features patented GripLock Technology for superior adhesion and a unique bone structure for faster fixing than traditional cavity mat systems.

Less adhesive is required on the mat surface, and trials indicate adhesive can be spread on the mat surface circa. 30% faster

The bonded mat is perfect for high load-bearing and commercial areas such as shopping malls, airports, car showrooms, office building and hospitals.

BAL’s tiling experts will also be delivering RIBA-approved CPDs throughout the three days of the show. Seminar times are as follows:

Tuesday –      7.30pm – Specifying Natural Stone

Wednesday – 1pm – Tiling Solutions for the Modern Build

4pm – Specifying Natural Stone

7pm – External Tiling Solutions for Balconies and Terraces

Thursday –     Noon – External Tiling Solutions for Balconies and Terraces

3pm – Tiling Solutions for the Modern Build

As well as innovative products, BAL provides a full support service including free NBS specification writing, CPDs, on-site consultancy and more.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We’ve got it covered

BAL – market-leaders in full tiling solutions – have launched two new uncoupling mat solutions for problem floors.

Following the launch of the revolutionary and award-winning BAL Rapid-Mat in 2014, the Flexbone range offers two very different solutions to the UK market with the launch of Flexbone 2Easy and Flexbone VAried.

Unique to the UK, and bound to excite fixers, contractors and distributors alike, BAL Flexbone 2Easy is a floating mat system – where NO adhesive is needed underneath the mat system i.e. the mat is truly uncoupled.

David Wilson, UK Head of Technical at BAL said: “Because no adhesive is required, preparation of the substrate is reduced to a quick sweep of the floor. No removal or residue, no removal of laitance and no priming of the surface is needed. This means that contaminated and stained floors, wooden floors, cracked screeds and mixed substrates can be tiled immediately.

“It can also be used direct onto difficult substrates such as bitumen, fresh sand:cement screeds or new anhydrite screeds that are not fully cured (up to 1.5% CM residual moisture). Lengthy waiting times on new screeds can be avoided with no more projects on hold while new screeds are dry enough to be tiled directly, or fixed with a traditional bonded system.

“Fast track installation in possible as any residual moisture in the substrate is distributed evenly through a system of channels and can also ventilate via the covering joints through perforations in the mat.”

As well as time savings from the lack of preparation, materials costs are also significantly reduced with no need for primers, plus a massive adhesive saving of 2kg/m², when compared to laying bonded cavity mat systems.

Time trials indicate the removal of subfloor preparation for installations provides a circa 50% time saving.

Because BAL Flexbone 2Easy is laid loose as a floating system, it is perfect for heritage projects where it is necessary to protect historic, sensitive substrates, plus areas where the ability to change the floor regularly is a requirement – e.g. rental properties.

BAL Flexbone VAried is a bonded mat system, with the same installation process as other fixed cavity mat systems in the market.

Unique to BAL Flexbone is the patented GripLock Technology and unique bone structure.

The patented design has been independently tested to provide the highest shear strength (providing more accommodation of higher levels of lateral movement) and the highest tensile strength (to stops tiles ‘popping-off’ or cracking under pressure). These highly flexible and deformable properties ensure all tile installations are protected from lateral movement and pressures, while a special fleece provides for vapour pressure compensation.

“As well as providing long-term benefits in terms of strength and flexibility, the unique bone structure also makes for significantly faster installations as the design ensures the trowelling-out of adhesive on the surface layer is fast and easy,” added David Wilson.

“Fixer trials have shown that the unique bone-shaped cavities are much easier and faster to fill with adhesive than the conventional square or round cavities.

“Less adhesive is required on the mat surface, and trials indicate adhesive can be spread on the mat surface circa. 30% faster.”

BAL Flexbone VAried can be used anywhere – for a varied number of installation environments!

BAL Flexbone VAried provides a waterproof layer, meaning no tanking is needed in wet areas such as bathrooms, showers and wetrooms when BAL Flexbone VAried is installed.

The bonded mat is perfect for high load-bearing and commercial areas such as shopping malls, airports, car showrooms, office building and hospitals, as well as light or medium traffic areas.

Both mats are available in 20m rolls or easy to install 2x1m sheets (ideal for small bathrooms) or wetrooms – and are suitable for use with all tile types, including natural stone.

As with all BAL products, BAL Flexbone uncoupling mats come with the manufacturer’s unique 25-year guarantee – unlike other cavity mats available.

When used with BAL adhesives, grouts, and sealants, this provides a fully guaranteed tiling system.

 

BAL launches new improved epoxy grout

BAL have launched a new improved epoxy grout specifically for floor tiling installations.

Available in new Smoke and Ebony colours, BAL Floor Epoxy is a three-part hygienic impervious epoxy resin grout for floors.

With a resin-based formulation comprising liquid resin, liquid hardener and powder filler, BAL Floor Epoxy offers numerous benefits for the contractor as it is particularly recommended for large-scale commercial projects.

Because the filler is available as a separate component, other colours are available to order on a project-by-project basis* to match your tiles or chosen colour-scheme.

Alex Underwood, Head of Marketing at BAL, said: “Hard-wearing and offering high resistance to abrasion and impact, BAL Floor Epoxy providing protection against bacteria and chemical attack making it perfect for installations including food preparation/processing plants, swimming pools/sports and leisure centres, shopping malls/supermarkets, hospitals and industrial/chemical plants.

“The ability to provide bespoke colours for this product makes it particularly attractive for specifiers and contractors on large commercial projects where aesthetics are vital.”

For joint widths up to 20mm, BAL Floor Epoxy cures in 24 hours and has a pot life of 60 minutes, meaning fewer mixes are needed producing cost and time savings.

What’s more, it is also suitable as a tile adhesive for chemical plants with metallic backgrounds, and for areas requiring chemical resistance.

*Minimum order quantities apply

BAL strengthens sales and specification support team

BAL – the market-leading manufacturer of full tiling solutions including adhesives, grouts and ancillary products – have bolstered their specification and sales team with two new hires.

James Purrett

James Purrett joins the team as Specification Manager covering the Midlands and Wales. He has extensive experience in the bathroom sector, joining BAL from Venesta – the washroom and cubicles company – where he worked for six years as Specification Manager.

James’ previous roles include Design Engineer at Washroom Accessory Company and Product Designer at Venesta, Amwell & Bushboard. He is also a qualified CAD Technician and worked on large scale projects including the M1 widening scheme.

Also joining BAL is John Hunter who will work in Specification and Sales in Scotland. Edinburgh-based, John has more than 20 years-experience in the tiling sector including more than 16 years with Johnson Tiles.

John Hunter

John has strong relationships with contractors, distributors, regional developers, and architects across Scotland and NE England and joins BAL from Capital Tile Supplies.

James and John will work with architects, designers and specifiers supporting them on M40/M20 specifications, providing project support and delivering BAL’s suite of RIBA-approved CPDs.

John will also work with BAL’s distribution network in Scotland to boost sales and support fixers and contractors working with the company’s products.

David Lyman, Sales Director at BAL said: “We’re delighted to welcome James and John to the team as part of our continued development and investment in the specification and sales team to support all stakeholders in delivering long-lasting and high-quality tiling projects across the whole of the UK.

“This investment confirms BAL’s position as a leading commercial projects brand, providing high quality tiling product and providing a host of support services for distributors, designers and architects to assist them from design to build.”

BAL has several free tools available to architects and specifiers to assist them from project start to completion including the company’s industry-renowned free and dedicated Technical Advisory and Specification Service (TAS) for technical queries and Sample Testing Service to ensure the correct selection of tiles and fixing products during the specification process.

Specifiers and architects can also take advantage of BAL’s comprehensive online tools and support including BIM library, fast track project advice, grout selector, industry news, technical tips and more. Simply visit www.bal-adhesives.com/specifiers

BAL can provide a solution for any background, environment or tile material and is trusted throughout the industry for its quality and lasting performance.

Microban – protection against mould and nasties

Tiled surfaces are ideal throughout any building. Durable, aesthetically pleasing and suitable for all dry, wet and hygiene areas. In areas like showers, bathrooms and kitchens, the humid conditions together with soaps and food residues can be the perfect environment for bacteria, mould and mildew to survive and thrive.

Microban technology helps keep bathrooms, showers and all tiled environments cleaner and fresher.

Only BAL’s range of grouts and sealants developed exclusively with global leader Microban technology will provide protection against black mould AND potentially harmful microbes and bacteria.

Because the Microban technology it is in-built within the BAL formulation’s, Microban protection provides continuous antibacterial and antifungal protection that lasts the lifetime of the products, helping to create a cleaner, fresher and more efficient building application.

Other products in the UK market promote hygiene ranges of grouts and sealants but these only actually claim to be anti-mould. They do not offer the anti-bacterial and anti-microbial properties of BAL’s Microban range of grouts and sealants; including BAL Micromax2, BAL Microflex and BAL Micromax Sealant.

Alex Underwood, Head of Marketing at BAL, said: “As market-leaders in full tiling solutions, we are proud to offer a range of innovative products such as grouts and sealants with in-built Microban technology.

“We are the only tiling brand in the UK to offer finishing products which can provide protection against black mould AND potentially harmful microbes and bacteria.

“When microbes and bacteria come in contact with the product surface, Microban protection penetrates the cell wall of the microorganism and disrupts the cell, making the microorganism unable to grow and reproduce.

“What’s more, Microban protection is incorporated into the product formulation in the manufacturing process meaning it never leaves the product, keeping your tiling protected and looking great.”

Former Tile Fixer of the Year joins BAL

BAL – the UK’s market leader in full tiling solutions – have appointed Andy Oates as Product Support Technician (PST) for the London and the South East.

Andy Oates

Sean Page

In 2015 Andy was named as The Tile Association (TTA) Tile Fixer of the Year and joins BAL after nearly 20 years in the tiling industry.

Qualifying with a NVQ Level 2 from Lambeth College, Andy began his tiling career with Moderna before joining Wilson & Wylie Contracts Ltd and then Stortford Tiling and Marble. In 2016 he founded Woodford Tiling which provided full tiling services for both residential and commercial tiling.

Andrew is joined in the Product Support Team by Sean Page who will work with fixers, contractors and distributors in East Anglia.

Sean, from Colchester, spent more than 10 years as a professional tiler with his own business Kabenza Tiling, developing his business and customer base from scratch and working in both the domestic and commercial markets.

Founded more than 20 years ago by the market-leaders for full tiling solutions, the PST concept is an integral focus of the many support services BAL provides to tilers, contractors and distributors. The nationwide team provide on-site consultancy and training, resolving any issues found prior to or during tiling work, as well as advice online and on the phone. They have many years of tiling experience between them and are highly regarded throughout the industry for their technical expertise.

Commenting on the appointments, Lewis Lupton, BAL PST Manager said: “I am delighted to welcome two highly experienced tiling professionals into our industry-respected product support team.

“Andrew and Sean know tiling inside and out and have the skills and knowledge to provide detailed on-site product and project support to all of our customers.”

To find out more BAL’s technical support services visit www.bal-adhesives.com/about-us/support/

New number for BAL Technical Advisory Service

BAL have launched a new phone number for their Technical Advisory and Specification Service (TAS).

The new number – 0330 030160 – replaces BAL’s previous 0845 number and costs no more than calls to geographic numbers and are included in free call packages from mobiles or landlines.

BAL TAS can also be contacted through the standard 01782 591120 number.

Handling approximately 50,000 calls a year, BAL TAS provides free assistance, advice and specifications for all aspects of tiling installation to professional fixers, tiling contractors, architects and homeowners. Whether assistance is required on a particularly complex tiling design, or simple product advice, BAL experts are available on the phone or via https://www.bal-adhesives.com/ask-an-expert-form/

What’s more, the team will provide assistance whatever the material used, from any manufacturer.

One of the first technical advisory services to be set up in the country, BAL TAS offers support like no other brand because they are backed by more than 50 years of heritage by tiling experts with many years’ experience and expertise in tiling and construction.

As well as offering a comprehensive technical advisory service, BAL also provide on-site project support through it’s nationwide team of Product Support Technicians (PSTs).

BAL is the only UK tile adhesive manufacturer to have specialist PSTs. BAL PSTs offer practical knowledge, project advice and training on the phone, online and on the road.

For more information visit https://www.bal-adhesives.com/about-us/support/

BAL launches new revised CPDs

BAL – the market-leaders in full tiling solutions – have launched three new revised RIBA-approved tiling CPDs.

The CPDs, entitled “Floor Tiling Solutions for the Modern Build”, “Tiling Solutions for Heavily Trafficked Areas” and “Tiling Solutions for Leisure Centres”, have been re-launched with up-to-date technical information to better reflect the changes in British Standards and building and construction trends.

Floor Tiling Solutions for the Modern Build aims to assist in the design process for successful specification and installation of all types of tile to common constructional backgrounds.

The CPD is split into four interchangeable modules which Identify potential, costly problems, considers how these problems can arise, offers practical advice on preventative measures and the use of correct materials.  It highlights British (and European) standards, health and safety issues and identifies the different types of adhesives, grout and pre-preparation technology available.

Tiling Solutions for Heavily Trafficked Areas provides design and specification guidance on relevant codes of practice and explains new ceramic tile adhesive technology and EN classifications, as well as providing further guidance on problem solving and how to avoid potentially costly failures.

The CPD aims to assist specifiers in specifying the correct tile types, incorporating movement joints and general design considerations for commercial project with heavy traffic such as airports, car showrooms and train stations.

The final updated CPD – Tiling Solutions for Leisure Centres – looks at the design process for the successful specification and installation of ceramic, porcelain and natural stone tiling for leisure environments.

It covers the need for detail in tiling work specifications, guidance on codes of practice, new adhesive technology and EN classifications, examples of costly failures and a case study of successful specification for a large leisure facility including wet areas, areas of high humidity and swimming pools.

Paul Telfer, BAL Head of Specifications, said: “The new revised RIBA-approved CPDs help bring architects and specifiers up-to-date with the latest technical information and standards to ensure that they specify the correct products for their tiling installations – whether these are large commercial or small domestic projects.

“Lasting no more than 45 minutes, each CPD has been created with architects in mind and allows plenty of time for questions on aspects of tiling design.”

To book BAL’s new RIBA-approved CPDs at your practice please contact Janet Webster on 01782 591120, email training@building-adhesives or visit bal-adhesives.com/specifiers/riba-approved-cpds/

Tiling innovations at Surface Design Show

BAL are returning to the Surface Design Show to showcase a number of new products that greatly enhance their offering to architects, designers and contractors.

Taking place at the Business Design Centre in Islington from 6th – 8th February, the Surface Design Show brings together the best that the tiling, flooring and surfacing industry can offer.

BAL will be exhibiting new full system solutions, as well as the latest innovations to ensure external tiling solutions are safe, problem-free and maintain the highest aesthetics on Stand 616 in the Stone Gallery.

BAL’s design-led finishing products and full system support for specifiers will also be showcased along with RIBA-approved CPDs.

Paul Telfer, Head of Specifications at BAL, will be presenting the company’s latest RIBA-approved CPD – External Tiling Solutions for Balconies and Terraces – at the Show Preview Evening at 7.30pm on Tuesday 6th February in the CPD/Stone Hub.

Featuring Gutjahr System Technology, BAL External Tiling Solutions represents a completely new way of designing and constructing balconies, terraces and roof terraces with natural stone, porcelain or ceramic tiled surfaces.

Unlike constructions on traditional sand:cement screeds, BAL external tiling solutions utilises capillary passive technology, meaning excess surface water is rapidly shed down through a drainage screed and out of the assembly via a drainage mat, drain grates and edge profiles. Taking the water out of the system removes any threat of damage due to freeze-thaw cycle or moisture staining.

The height adjustable drain grates which form part of the system also help to ensure barrier-free entry and seamless inside outside tiling areas for outside living all year round.

Other new external systems will also be introduced at the show.

Commenting on BAL’s show offering, Paul said: “We’re delighted to be able to bring BAL’s exciting and unique range of tiling products back to the Surface Design Show and provide architects and designers with real solutions for tiling projects both internally and externally.

“As a trusted market-leader for tiling, BAL can deliver specification support, on-site project consultancy and industry-leading technical support helping architects and designers specify in confidence.

“We’d be delighted to meet you at our stand, and discuss how we can assist you with your next or current project.”

BAL specification team expands with three new hires

BAL have expanded their specification team with the appointment of three experienced specification sales managers.

Joining BAL are Daryl Smallbone, Allan Garland, and Phil Cooper, who will work with architects, designers and contractors to deliver tiling specifications and projects in London, the South West and the Midlands respectively.

Daryl has worked with major global leading manufacturers within the construction, off-site prefabrication and interior & design (A&D) markets with organisations such as Nexans, Formica and more recently, AKW, giving him more than 15 years’ experience in specification and product sales.

 

Daryl has a strong commercial track record of working with architects, strategic partner resellers in delivering high valued projects including Stratford City (Olympics 2012), SAS Radisson Hotels, Virgin Active and Wimbledon Tennis Club.  He has also had great success in forging close business relationships with main contractors, establishing joint partner frameworks and preferred supplier status agreements to support strong incremental business growth.

Allan has many years’ experience in the flooring and tiling sector joining from Burmatex Ltd, promoting the company’s portfolio of products through the A&D, interior designer, local authorities, end user, main contractors and flooring contractors platforms to deliver high end specifications.

Starting his career with Topps Tiles, Allan has worked for Kerakoll UK in the South West building new business and managing existing accounts. Previously he worked for Porcelanosa SW Ltd working on numerous large-scale projects, ranging from luxury builds to multiple plot developments for the likes of Devonshire Homes, Millwood Homes and RS Developments.

Phil Cooper has joined BAL in a consultancy role to work with architects and designers in the Midlands. Phil is an experienced specification professional with an extensive track record of successfully promoting technical solutions within the built environment. With a background in environmental protection and sustainable development, he is committed to helping specifiers to achieve the optimum project-specific solution in terms of performance, buildability and cost.

Welcoming the new members of the team, Paul Telfer, Head of Specifications said: “I’m am delighted that we have been able to expand our team with the appointment of such experienced specification sales specialists as part of our commitment to delivering long-lasting and high quality tiling projects across the whole of the UK.

“This investment confirms BAL’s position as a leading commercial projects brand, providing quality tiling products and providing a host of support services for designers and architects to assist them from design to build.”

BAL has a number of free tools available to architects and specifiers to assist them from project start to completion including the company’s industry-renowned free and dedicated Technical Advisory and Specification Service (TAS) for technical queries and Sample Testing Service to ensure the correct selection of tiles and fixing products during the specification process.

Specifiers and architects can also take advantage of BAL’s comprehensive online tools and support including BIM library, fast track project advice, grout selector, industry news, technical tips and more. Simply visit www.bal-adhesives.com/specifiers

BAL can provide a solution for any background, environment or tile material and is trusted throughout the industry for its quality and lasting performance.

Providing a stable background with BAL Board

When tiling a wall or floor it’s important to ensure your backgrounds are strong and stable to support your weight of tile.

One way of providing a safe and secure base is with the use of a tile backer board such as BAL Board – a new BBA-approved magnesium oxide board for internal tiling.

Easily fixed to either stud work, solid walls or floors, BAL Board can support a combined tile weight of up to 100kg/m2. This far exceeds the recommended tiling weight for plasterboard (32kg/m2), gypsum plaster (20kg/m2), wood base sheets (up to 30kg/m2) and foam-core tile backing board (up to 60kg/m2).

This means that with BAL Board you can install heavier tiles.

Many tile backer boards on the market are also suitable for use in wet areas. BAL Board for example is moisture and water resistant, meaning it won’t warp, rot or degrade over time even in the wettest conditions. Despite being water resistant, it is still recommended to tank water resistant boards with a waterproofing kit before tiling especially in installations such as showers, wet rooms or swimming pool surrounds.

As well as water resistance, BAL Board is also mould resistant, and because it is thermally resistantit provides a high-level tolerance during hot and cold cycles and is suitable for use with underfloor heating.

Unlike alternative cement-based boards, BAL Board is also extremely lightweight – in fact it is up to 35% lighter per m2 than cement-based boards. combining the lighter weight and the standard 1200mm x 600mm measurements, tile fixers can now transport and carry more boards in one trip, producing a number of savings, not least time.

What’s more, unlike leading cement-based boards, BAL Board is even easier to install – as there are no specialist cutting tools required. All you need is a simple craft or utility knife to score and snap – it’s that easy! Plus, with no specialist screws required namely standard stainless steel or hot-dipped galvanised screws only for studwork; the ancillary costs start to be reduced.

And because it’s available in 1200mm x 600mm and fixed at British Standard recommended 300mm centres, this means less waste for fixers.

Safe and secure for the environment

Some cement-based backer boards are recommended to be cut outside or use breathing protection to prevent harmful dust from being ingested.

This is thankfully not the case with new BAL Board as there is minimal dust created when cutting, and it won’t cause harm to the person or environment. Always refer to the BAL board technical data sheet for additional advice. What’s more the cold fusion, low carbon manufacturing process significantly reduces the CO2 output compared to other manufacturers processes.

Thanks to its environmental characteristics and build performance BAL Board comes with BBA Approval – this means it has been rigorously tested and certified as an “outstanding construction product”.

Fixer Approved

Tile fixers gave the BAL Board the thumbs up in pre-launch trials. Contractors and tilers rated BAL Board as far superior to the nearest equivalent leading cement-based boards in trials.

For example, 100% of all fixers trialled preferred BAL Board over equivalent cement-based boards, as well as scoring “excellent” overall, compared to “poor” for the leading cement-based board (scores based on ease of handling, cutting, application, stability and installation speed).

Leading Warranty

Because BAL Board is fully tested and approved by the BBA and manufactured according to ISO 9001 for quality control, it comes with BAL’s leading 25-year written guarantee (when correctly installed and used in suitable applications). This means that BAL Board will not let you down, and ensure your tiling lasts the test of time.

For more information including full fixing instructions visit www.bal-adhesives.com/products/bal-board/

Full on performance with new BAL Rapid-Flex One

New from BAL, Rapid-Flex One is a high-performance S1 tile adhesive that provides fixers with superior qualities to get the job done on time and on budget.

Fast, strong and flexible, BAL Rapid-Flex One is an ultimate all-round adhesive with extended 30 minutes open time and 60 minutes working time – giving fixers speed but crucially all the control – and is still ready to grout in just 3 hours!

Formulated with FST for enhanced performance, a super smooth consistency provides easier and faster spreading.  With superb flexibility and just one white colour for use on any installation, it’s truly the Number One rapidset adhesive!

As well as a high-performance formulation, BAL Rapid-Flex One comes with BAL’s unique 25-year written guarantee. This means when used correctly, BAL Rapid-Flex One won’t let you down.

Every adhesive, grout, preparation product, sealant: every single product bearing the BAL name is guaranteed for a quarter of a century, subject to the usual ‘correct use’ conditions.

Alex Underwood, Head of Marketing at BAL said: “Replacing BAL’s stable of rapid-setting adhesives with just one white adhesive could be seen as a bold move – but BAL Rapid-Flex One ticks all the boxes as an all-in-one rapid-setting adhesive that gives fixers and contractors everything they need for perfect tiling at the great value cost of a standard grey flexible adhesive.

“With improved flexibility and deformability, BAL Rapid-Flex One really needs to be seen to be believed – so take it for a test drive today.”

Race Ahead With BAL

To celebrate the launch of BAL Rapid-Flex One, BAL are giving away great racing prizes and merchandise.

To see the great prizes, giveaways and other goodies visit www.bal-adhesives.com/win

BAL Pourable One

Now also available from BAL is Pourable One – the new and improved alternative to BAL Stone & Tile PTB.

With all the same great benefits; BAL Pourable One is also available as just a white adhesive – meaning that only one bag is needed – making it the perfect pourable solution for floor installations.

Suitable for internal or external use, it is perfect for large format and natural stone tiles and can be grouted in only three hours for fast track installations.

Highly flexible, it can be used with underfloor or undertile heating and at 25mm bed depth in one application – ideal for patch repair and uncalibrated stone.

The Ultimate Defensive Line-Up

 

Two great new preparations products from BAL

BAL tiling solutions have expanded their portfolio with two new preparation products to provide fixers, contractors and specifiers with strong and protected backgrounds for fail-safe tiling.

For the first time ever, BAL have introduced a new lightweight tile backer board for all internal environments. BAL Board is a moisture and water-resistant alternative to plasterboard and timber and helps tilers tackle problem walls and floors when fixing tiles. Easy to cut and install, it provides a solid base for tiling.

BAL is also introducing to its line-up BAL DPM – a new multi-purpose damp proof membrane, waterproofer and primer for use on walls and floors. BAL DPM is suitable for use on screeds with up to 98% RH readings (Hygrometer), or up to 87% RH on anhydrite screeds (or as per the screed manufacturers recommendations). BAL DPM provides a great defence against damp, moisture vapour and chemical attack.

BAL Board stands out from the scrum by being 15-35% lighter per m2 than similar cement-based products. No specialist cutting tools, fixings or screws are required for installations.

A specialist magnesium oxide tile backer board, BAL Board can proudly provide BBA approval and is manufactured under strict ISO approved quality control procedures to provide superior performance against all other backer boards.

Because it can be simply cut with a craft /utility knife or sharp blade, and then screw fixed with standard stainless steel or hot dipped galvanised screws (to timber studwork) – rather than using specialist tools – costs are significantly reduced.

What’s more, as well as ease of use, it provides Health & Safety benefits for the fixer with minimal dust when cutting.

BAL Board is water and mould resistant and will not swell, rot or degrade over time making it ideal for wetrooms, bathrooms, kitchens and wet areas in leisure facilities. It is also suitable for use with underfloor heating.

BAL Board is perfect for fixing large format wall or floor tiles. With a weight tolerance up to 100kg per m2, it’s the strongest board on the market with a superior weight tolerance than plasterboard or timber based sheets.

Available in 6mm and 12mm thickness, the 1200 x 600mm sized boards are easy to carry and transport.

New BAL DPM is a multi-purpose one-coat DPM, primer and moisture vapour suppressant that provides an impenetrable barrier against damp and moisture vapour on floors AND walls up to 98% Relative Humidity (RH).

BAL DPM is resistant to water, chemicals, grease and pollutants, and can be used internally or externally either as a DPM, primer, waterproofer or residual moisture vapour suppressant.

As a one coat primer with aggregate, it kicks into touch any problems with tiling onto difficult substrates as it aids adhesion onto steel, masonry and flooring grade asphalt.

New BAL DPM can be used on sand:cement screeds, power floated concrete and exiting tiles on walls and floor for basements below the water table. What’s more, it can also be used on anhydrite screeds with up to 87% RH, meaning less waiting and quicker tiling for fast track installations.

BAL DPM can also be utilised as an easy two-coat waterproofing system for walls and floors – perfect for use internally or for BAL external tiling systems.

As a residual moisture vapour suppressant, BAL DPM protects the floor covering from moisture and allows the controlled passage of moisture vapour protecting both the adhesive and the tiled surface.

Alex Underwood, Head of Marketing at BAL, said: “These two new products represent a real first for BAL and help fixers, contractors and specifiers tackle problem builds head-on.

“Both BAL Board and BAL DPM have been introduced after extensive trials with fixers to provide leading solutions.

“These two new systems are real game changer and further extend BAL’s full system solutions for tiling – all with a 25-year written guarantee – and the free BAL services of on-site consultancy, product support and industry-leading technical support.”

For more information on BAL Board and BAL DPM visit www.bal-adhesives.com/newproducts

As part of the launch BAL are also giving fixers the chance to win rugby prizes including match tickets, shirts and other great merchandise.

To see what great prizes are on offer visit www.bal-adhesives.com/win

BAL backs The Big Sleuth 2017

BAL – market-leaders in full tiling solutions – have lent their backing to a mosaic artist taking part in a fund raising art project in Birmingham.

Caroline Jariwala The Big Sleuth 2017 Sweet William (1) web snapCaroline Jariwala The Big Sleuth 2017 Sweet William (3) web snap

The Big Sleuth is a fund raising initiative organised by Wild in Art and Birmingham Children’s Hospital. More than 200 large and small fibreglass bears are currently being decorated by artists, schools and community groups across the West Midlands.

Caroline Jariwala, a member of the British Association for Modern Mosiac (BAMM), has created “Sweet William Bear” – inspired by flowers quoted in Shakespeare’s writings.

After attending two mosaic mural training courses at BAL – Caroline has fixed the mosaics with BAL Max Flex Fibre tile adhesive and has grouted the bear with BAL Micromax2 Ebony donated by the company.

Sweet William Bear will be displayed in front of Birmingham Cathedral from July 11th as part of an art trail throughout the city. Each bear will be sold off in a charity auction in the autumn to raise money for the children’s hospital.

The Big Sleuth follows on from The Big Hoot in 2015, where 85 large owl sculptures were auctioned off, raising more than £5 million for the hospital.

Caroline said: “The mosaic features ceramic tiles, porcelain and broken vintage crockery and draws inspiration from Shakespeare’s love of flowers used in his plays and sonnets. The Sweet William flower is said to been named after the Bard himself! A fitting name for a flora related bear! I have I have been using BAL Max Flex Fibre which has been wonderful to use and BAL Micromax2 Ebony grout. The texture, durability and true black finish of the grout is perfect to complete the project.

“I am hoping that Sweet William will have a real “wow” factor, especially as it is located in front of Birmingham Cathedral.

“Thank you to BAL for supporting me on this project and their support for mosaic artists with their training courses and technical advice.”

Alex Underwood, Head of Marketing at BAL said: “Caroline only had the ‘bear’ necessities to complete this project, so we were all too pleased to donate our Micromax2 Ebony grout.

“Sweet William looks absolutely stunning and I’m sure it will create tremendous interest on the art trail. We can’t wait to see it proudly on display in front of the cathedral!”

For more information about the project visit www.thebigsleuth.co.uk

Caroline’s website is: www.mangomosaics.co.uk

BAL provides a number of training courses for mosaic artists, professional tilers and contractors including:

  • Introduction to screeds and subfloor preparation
  • Preparing and tiling timber floors
  • Introduction to adhesives and grouts
  • Preparing and tiling to anhydrite screeds
  • Preparing and tiling to under tile heating systems
  • Preparing and tiling wet rooms
  • Preparing and tiling mosaics
  • Preparing and tiling external areas with BAL External Tiling Solutions.

For more information visit www.bal-adhesives.com/training.


Snow is here this summer!

But don’t worry, there’s no need to wrap up – it’s just BAL’s new brilliant white shade of Micromax2 Grout!

MM2 Snow Web

Formulated with the same built-in Microban antimicrobial protection for walls and floors, BAL Micromax2 Snow is highly flexible and rapid-setting in only 3 hours.

Available in 2.5kg, 5kg and 10kg bags and supported with a colour-matched silicone sealant, BAL Micromax2 Snow provides the perfect match with white tiles, or to contrast darker shades.

The new brighter shade of white extends the Micromax2 core colour palette to 11 including its original shade of White, plus Manilla, Jasmine, Gunmetal, Pebble, Ebony, Smoke, Chocolate, Cocoa and Anthracite.

Designed and developed with fixers, BAL Micromax2 provides ultimate all-round protection against mould and is recommended for domestic and commercial installations due to its enhanced durability and flexibility.

It’s technologically enhanced formulation ensures enduring good look and consistent colour with no efflorescence, patchiness or shading, even across the largest areas. What’s more, its super smooth formulation allows for easy application into gaps as fine as 1mm, while its super strong and flexible characteristics mean it is suitable for joints as wide as 20mm.

Because of its durability and flexibility, BAL Micromax2 is perfect for power showers, wet rooms, heated floors and timber screeds in a wide variety of projects ranging from domestic bathrooms to leisure centres, shopping centres, changing rooms and restaurants.

As well as top product performance, fixers, contractors and specifiers can enjoy the benefits of BAL’s 25 year guarantee, on and off-site project support and expert technical advice to give them peace of mind that their projects will last the test of time.


BAL helps mosaic artist transform school hall

BAL have helped mosaic artist Tamara Froud transform a primary school dining hall with installations designed by pupils and taking inspiration from the school’s values.

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A fixing solution of BAL adhesive and grout provided Tamara with the perfect materials to permanently fix ornate Cinca ceramic mosaics to a 6-sided, T-shaped concrete pillar at Richard Alibon Primary School in Dagenham, Essex.

Tamara was commissioned by the school to work with pupils to create designs based on the school’s values of confidence, perseverance, ambition, curiosity, respect and happiness. She visited the school to lead a design day before creating the final design – based extensively on the children’s drawings – at her studio in Catford, South London.

Tamara then returned to the school for two weeks of learning workshops where she worked with the students and taught them the basics of mosaic tiling so they could be involved in the fabrication of the mosaic. She completed the project during the school holidays.

During the installation, Tamara used BAL Max Flex Fibre tile adhesive to fix the mosaic tiles onto a mesh background. Max Flex Fibre is highly flexible and is enhanced with Fibre Strand Technology meaning it withstands movement, plus its extended open time allows for larger areas to be fixed in one mix – perfect for large mosaic installations. The project was completed with BAL Micromax2 grout which provides a smooth and clean finish with protection against efflorescence to minimise the risk of discolouration. Highly flexible, BAL Micromax2 also has enhanced durability making it suitable tiling projects on most backgrounds.

Commenting on the installation she said: “It was fantastic to work with the pupils to create this mosaic based on the school’s values and help bring their ideas to life in their dining and assembly hall. The mosaic has transformed the pillar, which was a real eye-sore, and will be enjoyed by teachers and pupils for years to come.”

Tamara used the BAL products after attending at Mosaic Tiling training course at BAL’s Innovation and Technology Centre (ITC) in Stoke-on-Trent organised by the British Association for Modern Mosaic (BAMM).

“As a member of the BAMM committee I’ve always wanted to push training to help standardise best practice amongst our members, so teaming up with BAL for specialist training has been a real boost,” said Tamara.

“It’s up to all mosaic artists to be fully versed on the correct preparation and installation techniques. What we don’t want are installations to be falling off walls and giving our art a bad reputation. Training courses like those provided by BAL are great for mosaic artists and benefit everyone.”

BAL expands specification team

BAL have appointed Paul Telfer as Specification Sales Manager for London and the South East.

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Paul will work with architects, designers, specifiers and contractors supporting them on M40/M20 specifications, providing project support and delivering RIBA-accredited CPDs.

With more than 15 years’ experience working with market-leading building products manufacturers, Paul has a track record of working with architects and contractors to deliver high profile and high value specifications across the UK.

Paul joins BAL from the Stansons Group where he worked with architects, specifiers and contractors on exclusive projects such as the Clarges office and apartment development in Piccadilly, Townlands Hospital in Henley on Thames and student accommodation at Lewisham and Southwark College (LeSoSo Campus).

Matthew Leaver, Head of Specification at BAL said: “I’m delighted to welcome Paul to the team as part of our continued development and investment in the specification sector to support all parties in delivering long-lasting and high quality tiling projects across the whole of the UK.

“This investment confirms BAL’s position as a leading commercial projects brand, providing quality tiling products and providing a host of support services for designers and architects to assist them from design to build.”

BAL has a number of free tools available to architects and specifiers to assist them from project start to completion including the company’s industry-renowned free and dedicated Technical Advisory and Specification Service (TAS) for technical queries and Sample Testing Service to ensure the correct selection of tiles and fixing products during the specification process.

Specifiers and architects can also take advantage of BAL’s comprehensive online tools and support including BIM library, fast track project advice, grout selector, industry news, technical tips and more. Simply visit www.bal-adhesives.com/specifiers

BAL can provide a solution for any background, environment or tile material and is trusted throughout the industry for its quality and lasting performance.

BAL launches new RIBA-approved outdoor tiling CPD

BAL have launched a new CPD seminar on external tiling to balconies and terraces.

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The new RIBA-approved CPD seminar – which was successfully delivered at this year’s Surface Design Show – provides architects, specifiers and contractors with an overview of external tiled living spaces, how to ensure perfect lifelong installations and comparison of available assemblies and system design.

The trend for outdoor living has led to a growth in domestic markets for external tiles on balconies, large roof/ground floor terraces and patios.

When specified with the correct tiling systems, all types of tile installations are possible for outdoor use including ceramics, porcelain, some natural stone and pavers.

With the right products and systems, these long-lasting balconies and terraces can be designed and installed for all year round enjoyment.

BAL’s new CPD seminar provides specifiers with a comprehensive technical overview on avoiding potential issues including cracked tiles, frost damage, efflorescence and moisture staining – all caused by inadequate drainage of the tiles surface.

Explore the positives and negatives of traditional assemblies and backgrounds such as cement:sand screeds, loose lay systems, pedastals, drainage screed and drainage screed and drainage mats.

The seminar explores design considerations such as construction, waterproofing, insulation, falls, drainage, movement joints and edge details, while building connections and inside to outside transitions are also considered.

BAL’s new CPD has been put together following the launch of the company’s new external tiling solutions from sister company Gutjahr, which provide rapid and immediate drainage of external tiled surfaces.

Water is drained down through the screed and transported from the assembly by the use of a drainage mat, meaning no water staining, no freeze/thaw threat or efflorescence.

BAL offers three systems, each designed to meet height and weight requirement of varying constructions and a number of different edge finishes, depending on screed thickness, tile size and thickness and the desired look.

The new products represent a complete range of solutions for the BAL portfolio and work as a system with current BAL preparation, adhesives, grouts and sealant products.

This means for the first time architects, designers and contractors are provided with a true ‘one-stop-shop’ for balcony, terrace and patio systems for a range of different coverings.

Book a CPD

BAL products specified for luxury spa complex

BAL – market-leaders in full tiling solutions – have provided a full system solution of adhesives, grouts and anciliary products for a luxury spa complex in the heart of the Lake District.

Featuring stunning tiling throughout in a demanding environment, including electric and water-fed underfloor heating systems, the new Brimstone Spa complex at the Langdale Estate Hotel in Cumbria oozes elegance and sophistication.

The 990m2 development includes 10 treatment rooms, seven thermal experiences including a Himalayan salt steam grotto, an outdoor sauna, and a heated relaxation infinity pool that spans from indoor to outdoor.

The stunning complex also features a number of relaxation areas, a spa deli and a private spa suite for two, among other facilities.

Contemporary in style, Brimstone Spa offers a luxury, sensory experience with tiles types, textures, colours and matching grouts inspired by the surrounding Lake District landscape including striking bronze metallic ceramic throughout the thermal areas, wood effect porcelain in the floor areas and stunning mosaic work in the relaxation areas and infinity pool.

BAL worked extensively with project architects Unwin Jones, main contractors MedLock, and Ceramtek from design to completion including a full written M40 specification, specification support from BAL’s Specification Support Team and on-site support from BAL’s Product Support Technicians.

As a result, BAL tile adhesives, grouts, sealants and preparation products – including waterproofing and levelling – were all supplied for phase three of the £4.5 million project.

With changes in humidity and temperature the project required a range of specialist products to cope with additional movement from thermal changes.

Products specified included BAL Level Max levelling compound with Fibre Strand Technology (FST), BAL Single Part Flexible tile adhesive and BAL Stone & Tile PTB tile adhesives which are all highly-polymer modified for extra flexibility.

BAL Micromax2 anti-mould grout, with colour-matched BAL Micromax sealant, was specified throughout the project, is also specifically formulated with increased flexibility to cope in all environments including showers, wet rooms and heated floors – perfect for this project.

A number of colour-options were specified including Smoke, Chocolate and Jasmine which perfectly complemented the tiling work throughout.

Joe Macdonald from tiling contractors Ceramtek Ltd, said the spa project was one of the most complex he has been involved with due to the egg-shape of the changing area, deliberate randomised wall and floor tile sizes, complex falls and the changes in backgrounds.

He said: “This project was particularly difficult due to the particularly complex tiling design and shape of the building throughout.

“Perhaps the most challenging aspect of the tiling design was the inner egg-shape spa area which required complex cuts to achieve the desired shape. This was further complicated with the specification of wood-effect porcelain floor tile planks in three different widths, fitted in random as per the design notes and all laid to a 45° angle throughout.

“The alternative sized wood-effect porcelain plank tiles were used to follow curved walls in the Spa area. We relied heavily on using a variety of BAL’s adhesive products to suit the changing conditions as the job progressed.”

“We also had to take into account falls into central gulley’s and drains and incorporate the thermal dynamics of the project which required the use of specialist flexible adhesives and levelling compounds.

“Thankfully we have a good working relationship with BAL from previous large scale projects so brought them into the equation to assist. BAL produced an excellent specification of fixing solutions, on-site project support and outstanding technical advice on this project which everyone knows is the most trusted in the industry.”

Project Name: Brimstone Spa,

Location: Langdale Estate Hotel, Langdale, Cumbria

Description: Installation of porcelain, ceramic, slate and mosaic tiles in spa area, shower rooms, changing rooms, deli-area and walkways.

BAL products used:

LEVELLING: BAL Level Max

WATERPROOFING: BAL Tank-it

ADHESIVES: BAL Stone & Tile PTB, BAL Single Part Flexible, BAL Rapidset Flexible Fibre, BAL Easypoxy AG

GROUT: BAL Micromax2

OTHER: BAL Micromax Sealant, BAL Prime APD

Tiles:

Tile Ceramic International Amazzonia Dragon Green 900 x 450mm & 600 x300mm

Tile Ceramic International Amazzonia Dragon Brown

Newood Outdoor Brown Porcelain

Newood Brown Porcelain

Marazzi TreverkWay OLMO 150x900mm MLA5 OLMO Porcelain

Project Partners:

DESIGN: Mark Green, Curveline Design

ARCHITECT:  Jez Marvin, Unwin Jones

TILING: Ceramtek Ltd

MATERIALS: Ceramic International

BAL at the Surface Design Show 2017

BAL are returning to the Surface Design Show at London’s Business Design Centre from 7-9 February to demonstrate its new technology and present informative RIBA-approved CPDs.

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Drop by Stand 616 to find out why BAL are market-leaders for full tiling solutions including their industry leading specification support such as free M40/M20 specification writing service,  fast-track project enquiry and market-leading Technical Advisory Service, sample test service and national specification support team.

Specifiers can also access BAL products as BIM objects in NBS National BIM Library and the company’s leading product guarantee.

As well as finding out about BAL’s specifier support tools, architects and designers can pick up CPD points with RIBA-approved presentations scheduled on;

Wednesday 8th at:

  • 11.45-12.30 – External Tiling Solutions for Balconies and Terraces
  • 14.45-15.30 – Problem-Solving for Tiling Solutions
  • 17.45-18.30 – External Tiling Solutions for Balconies and Terraces

And Thursday 9th February at

  • 11.45-12.30 – External Tiling Solutions for Balconies and Terraces
  • 13.45-14.30 – Problem-Solving for Tiling Solutions
  • 16.00-16.45 – External Tiling Solutions for Balconies and Terraces

As part of the seminar programme, BAL will also be showcasing their new RIBA-approved CPD on external tiling solutions for balconies and terraces.

See the new external solutions introduced to the market this year on the stand to understand how the system protects outdoor coverings from the unpredictable British weather.

Without the correct tiling solutions, tiled areas can be susceptible to cracking, efflorescence, staining or patchy tiles – all derived from water damage or fluctuations in temperature.

The new products represent a complete new range of solutions for the BAL portfolio and work as a system with current BAL preparation, adhesives, grouts and sealant products.

This means for the first time architects, designers and contractors are provided with a true ‘one-stop-shop’ for balcony, terrace and patio systems for tiles, pavers and slabs.

Building Adhesives attends UK manufacturing awards

Building Adhesives Ltd represented the tiling industry at a nationwide celebration of the best of UK manufacturing at The Manufacturer MX Awards 2016.

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The company, which manufactures tile adhesives, grouts, sealants and other ancillary tiling products under the BAL and Dunlop brands, was shortlisted in three categories for Sustainable Manufacturing, Supply Chain Excellence and Through-Life Engineering Services.

Building Adhesives took their place alongside internationally-renowned companies such as Caterpillar, McLaren Automotive, Siemens, JCB and Coca-Cola at the awards ceremony in Birmingham hosted by impressionist Rory Bremner.

David Hackett, General Manager at Building Adhesives Ltd, said: “It was an honour and a privilege for BAL to attend the awards ceremony again and represent the UK tiling industry alongside so many household global names with manufacturing in the UK.

“To be shortlisted in three categories was a tremendous achievement and highlights how we are committed as a company to not only maintaining but improving our high standards in manufacturing technology, sustainability and supply chain management.

“Still based at our original manufacturing site in Stoke-on-Trent, we continue to invest heavily in our manufacturing process to ensure as a company we are as efficient and sustainable as possible and also meet the needs of our customers. With multi-million investment in our facilities in the last 2 years we are committed to maintain our market-leading status for tiling solutions in the UK, and to also develop our credentials as a leading manufacturer in the UK, benchmarked against the very best manufacturers from all industries.”

It is was the third time that Building Adhesives have been shortlisted for a Manufacturing MX Award, winning the Business Development and Change Management category in 2014.

To make the shortlist, Building Adhesives went through a rigorous evidence-based process with judges making numerous site visits to the Stoke-on-Trent manufacturer and meeting the key decision makers.

With a combined heritage spanning four decades, The Manufacturer MX Awards was formed in 2015 by the merger of two of the industry’s existing awards programmes: The Manufacturer of the Year Awards, run by The Manufacturer and the Manufacturing Excellence (MX) Awards, run by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE).

BAL & YTC support literacy charity

BAL have provided a range of products to support the development of a new facility in Rotherham for Grimm & Co, a worldwide charity which aims to get children excited about literacy.

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The Rotherham outlet is the first for the charity in the UK outside London. Each store boasts a different concept to inspire the imagination of children, which they then take back with them into school.

The theme for the Rotherham facility focuses around “Master Graham Grimm”, a straight talking Yorkshireman who runs a thriving apothecary, supplying unnatural products and sought after services to magical beings. Jeremy Dyson, a writer and director best known as the non performing member of comedy group The League of Gentlemen is one of the charity ambassadors and has helped write the concept story.

Grimm & Co can be visited by children throughout South Yorkshire, with school classes able to take a workshop where they enter a magical apothecary, learn all about Master Grimm and are then encouraged to write about what they discover.

The charity is reliant upon donations but is also supplemented by an in house apothecary which not only makes a great background to the story but is somewhere you can buy bath salts but not as you know them, they may be called “pinch of happiness” for instance or “made from unicorns”.

The Yorkshire Tile Company, which has branches in Leeds, Sheffield, Newcastle and Doncaster, supplied tiles for the potting shed (girls toilets), the tool shed (boys toilets) and also for the large writers room.

The concept here is that people do their best thinking on the toilet so the writing room has been given a toilet theme, complete with graffiti toilet doors made into desks, seating made out of toilet seats and completed with other quirky styling to finish the look.

Yorkshire Tile have donated more than 40m2 of tiles, with BAL supplying BAL Supercover Rapidset and BAL Green Star tile adhesive, BAL Micromax2 Smoke grout, and BAL Rapid-Mat uncoupling mat.

Hannah Wild, Brand Manager from The Yorkshire Tile Company said: “We’re thrilled to have collaborated with Grimm & Co a charity which truly makes a difference to local children.” “The completed rooms look truly enchanting with our tiles proudly on display and we’ve absolutely no doubt that children will enjoy using the newly revamped facilities for years to come.”

Alex Underwood, Head of Marketing at BAL, said: “We were delighted to be able to support this fantastic charity by donating all the adhesive, grout and our uncoupling mat system for this new venture.

“All the rooms look absolutely stunning and I’m sure they’ll capture the imagination of school children from across the region and inspire them to go on their own literary journeys.”

Join the conversation with the new BAL forum

BAL – the market leaders in full tiling solutions – have launched a new online forum for tiling professionals.

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Available to registered YOU+BAL Partners, the forum gives tilers, contractors and specifiers the opportunity to discuss the latest products, fixing techniques and services, as well as getting technical help from BAL staff, share site stories and lots more.

Alex Underwood, Head of Marketing at BAL, said: “The new BAL forum replaces our old Tilerworld forum which was extremely popular with fixers and contractors alike.

“We’ve relaunched the forum to help fixers and contractors feel closer to BAL. It’s a great way of connecting with our customer base and giving them another avenue to speak to us directly, whether it’s for product or project advice or simply to share their latest project.

“Our team will be monitoring the website through the day and evening so users can be sure of quick response to any query.

“So get posting and join the conversation today!”

Accessible via BAL’s YOU+BAL portal or directly at www.bal-adhesives.com/forum, all BAL Partners and those registered on BAL’s website are automatically members, meaning they can simply log-in with their username and password and get posting!

If tilers would like to access the forum, they can sign up to YOU+BAL at www.bal-adhesives.com/y-plus-bal-reg/.

Launched in February, YOU+BAL is BAL’s way of welcoming all fixers and contractors to partner with BAL.

Signing up to YOU+BAL gives BAL Partners an even greater opportunity to be at the heartbeat of BAL: to instantly benefit from the full support the company can offer, giving BAL Partners access into BAL to develop the products and time-saving tools to help business development.

As well as access to the Forum, BAL Partner’s get access to:

·         BAL’s unique development programme to test new technology and services.

·         Free business development tools including web profile, homeowner leads, BAL sales aids, case study development and social media promotion.

·         Free business support tools including free specification tools, sample testing service, Apprentice Finder tool and exclusive Forum access.

·         Training courses, including one free course per partner per year at BAL’s Innovation and Technology Centre, local training and free business development workshops.

·         24/7 technical support with industry leading Technical Advisory Service (TAS), and regional on-site Product Support Technicians.

·         Exclusive rewards and discounts at selected trade events, exclusive product promotions, and free merchandise.

Going forward, BAL will offer Partners the chance to have greater access inside BAL, enhanced tools and priority support services by becoming Certified Partners and Advanced Certified Partners. This will include access to exclusive areas on the forum.

Alex added: “There are many points-based reward schemes or prize-orientated campaigns, but YOU+BAL is different from all of these and very different to anything BAL have done before. Whilst there are rewards, offers and exclusive discounts given, this is only one small part of YOU + BAL. It is much bigger than this; it is a true partnership programme, bringing tilers, contractors and other professionals into the inner circle of the market-leaders with access to real business development tools and support as well as the chance to shape the future

Building Adhesives shortlisted for 3 manufacturing awards

Building Adhesives Ltd have been shortlisted in The Manufacturer MX Awards 2016.

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The company will now go head-to-head with manufacturers across the country in the Supply Chain Excellence, Sustainable Manufacturing and the Through Life Engineering category which looks for the  company that is delivering high value, long-life and outstanding products with the lowest life cycle cost.

The competition has been exceptionally tough this year, with a 23% increase in the number of entries compared to last year’s programme.

Building Adhesives Ltd, which manufactures tile adhesives, grouts and other ancillary tiling products under the BAL brand, will now undergo the most rigorous judging process of any industry awards in the UK including a site visit in September where judges will witness the company’s manufacturing processes in action and carefully evaluate their findings against the criteria.

The process will conclude at The Manufacturer MX Awards Ceremony and Gala Dinner, at The Vox in Birmingham on November 2. Here, manufacturing leaders and the wider industrial community will come together to celebrate the award winners. This is the biggest annual celebration in the industry’s calendar and attracted almost 1,000 attendees in previous years.

Past winners range from SMEs to OEMs and have come from a diverse range of industries, such as automotive, pharmaceutical, and aviation.

It is the third time Building Adhesives have been shortlisted for a Manufacturing MX Award, winning the Business Development and Change Management category in 2014.

Peter Bell, Managing Director at Building Adhesives, said: “We are delighted to have been shortlisted in three categories and are looking forward to the big event.

“Being shortlisted for a third year in a row is a testament to our investment in our employees, equipment and processes to ensure that we continue to be a forward thinking and sustainable manufacturer that leads the market in our industry.”

Nick Hussey, CEO of the Hennik Group, organisers of TMMX Awards said: “We are delighted to present such a robust shortlist of wonderful manufacturing businesses. In several categories, entries are double those of 2015, and the total number of companies entering is up by almost 25%, with many companies entering multiple categories. To me, this demonstrates the breadth of their all-round manufacturing excellence.

“All the shortlisted companies should be extremely proud that they have been selected against so much strong competition. The entry and shortlisting process is far more rigorous and evidence-based than any other industry awards programme and making it to the finals is a huge achievement. I’m looking forward to the site visits and meeting the individuals behind these extraordinary companies.”

New AquaDrain drainage systems protects external tiling

Tiled coverings on exposed balconies and terraces endure the harshest of conditions, such as rain, frost and heat.

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However the main enemy is water, which penetrates joints in floor coverings and migrates into the substrate. Water is often retained there for long periods unable to exit as quickly as it entered.  Penetrating water, if not drained away fast enough, can lead to frost damage, efflorescence, damp stains or even weed growth in between coverings.

New from BAL, AquaDrain capillary-breaking drainage mat systems ensure rapid drainage of surface water, which is expelled from the balconies and terraces via ProFin edge profiles and guttering systems.

Part of the innovative Gutjahr range of external tiling products, AquaDrain EK and AquaDrain T+ are available in 8 and 16mm thicknesses, and provide high volume drainage capacity, thereby avoiding the problems of surface discolouration of moisture-sensitive coverings and materials.

AquaDrain EK can be used in combination with a thick drainage mortar screed or a thin lightweight epoxy-bound screed for low heights and heavily trafficked areas; while the AquaDrain T+ is used with a direct point fixing method for lightweight, light traffic areas, such as terraces.

Red Sky Thinking from BAL for fail safe external tiling

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BAL – market-leaders in full tiling solutions – have launched a new problem-solving external tiling system for balconies, roof terraces and ground terraces.

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Gutjahr System Technology from BAL offers designers and contractors innovative drainage, ventilating and uncoupling solutions to protect outdoor coverings against the unpredictable British weather and extremes such as rain, frost and heat.

Alex Underwood, Head of Marketing at BAL, said: “External tiling is a fast-growth segment in the UK as the trend for inside / outside living thrives. BAL are excited to confirm our new range of products for a proven system-solution in this sector are now available to the market.

“The new products represent a complete new range of solutions for the BAL portfolio and work as a system with current BAL preparation, adhesive, grout and sealant products. This means for the first time architects, designers and contractors are provided with a true ‘one-stop-shop’ for balconies, terraces and external ground floors.

“Beyond ‘blue-sky’ thinking, the new solution provides a proven and trusted system to avoid frost damage, staining and water damage when using tiles externally. The system can also reduce the weight loading on a balcony by utilising thinner assemblies, lighter materials and limiting water absorption and retention, which in turn reduces water loading.”

Gutjahr are a sister company of BAL, with a proven track record of delivering trouble-free coverings across Europe from large prestigious commercial projects including Amsterdam Library, The Palace of Hambach, and the Weimar National Theatre to smaller domestic projects over the last 25 years. Gutjahr are also the inventors of the passive capillary AquaDrain® surface drainage system. Complete with ProFin® edge profiles, AquaDrain® drain grates and ProRin® guttering, the patented systems are simple to install and provide rapid, immediate and high volume drainage of water.

By removing the water, you are taking away the biggest threat to the tiled assembly and protecting the long term integrity of the floor assembly and covering. Problems such as cracking due to the freeze/thaw cycle, staining, warping, efflorescence and even weed growth on loosely laid tiles or slabs is inevitable if surface water is able to penetrate below the tiled surface and is unable to be drained effectively.

Among the systems on offer from BAL include Thin Drainage Assembly for direct point adhesion for break-proof coverings, Standard Drainage Screed Assembly for the solid bed fixing of ceramic, porcelain and natural stone and concrete paving, and a Thin, Lighter Weight Drainage Screed Assembly with an epoxy screed for a strong but comparatively lightweight build-up compared to conventional systems.

Both the Standard Drainage and Thin assemblies include the AquaDrain® passive capillary drainage mat which has a unique permeable mesh, raising the complete surface and offering a higher drainage volume compared to other drainage mortar and mat systems.

With a collective 80 years of commercial tiling experience, incorporation of the Gutjahr range within the BAL portfolio ensures a guaranteed, full-system solution for external installations from the UK market-leader.
BAL is introducing a number of Gutjahr products to its portfolio, which combined with its full range of tiles adhesives, grouts and sealants, makes BAL the ONLY full system provider in the UK.

Now available to order or specify, Gutjahr System Technology represents new, innovative ideas – a vision shared by BAL.

Cheshire mansion transformed with BAL tiling solutions

BAL, the UK market-leaders in full tiling solutions, have provided a full system solution of tiling products to help transform a high-spec six-bedroom mansion in Hale Barns, Cheshire.

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Shortlisted for the The Tile Association (TTA) Awards 2016 for Best Use of Tile in a Domestic Environment category, the project was completed over a six-month period by Dave Stott from Elite Tiling Ltd.

The high-spec property is a fantastic example of modern tiling, including the creation of a stunning mosaic wet room and bathroom that was previously an unused attic space and a complex hexagonal patterned tiling installation in one of the en-suite renovations.

BAL tile adhesives, grouts, sealants and preparation products were specified throughout the project which included a family bathroom, and four ensuites, including master ensuite and guest ensuite, each with their own unique patterns and styles helping to create a stunning property in the Cheshire countryside.

BAL worked extensively with Dave Stott including specification support from BAL’s Technical Advisory Service (TAS) and on-site support from BAL’s expert Product Support Technicians.

“BAL were absolutely brilliant from start to finish, visiting the site to assist with product specification and technical advice,” said Dave.

“I have always used BAL as they never let me down. This was a prestigious, high-value project, so I instantly turned to BAL to provide a high quality, value-for-money fixing solution that I know will last the test of time.”

Fixed with BAL Supercover Rapidset Flexible, BAL Single Part Flexible and grouted with BAL Micromax2 Gunmetal, the stunning 29m2 family bathroom features stunning 300 x 600mm Purestone Grigio Natural Rectified Porcelain tiles fixed in a brick bond pattern on both walls and floors.

The area around the bath and shower area was tiled with textured Purestone Grigio Muretto 3D Décor tiles fixed with BAL Single Part Flexible. Not only do the textured tiles provide a stunning finish to the bathroom, they also deliver longevity, protecting against damage, wear and tear.

Situated at the front of the house, the 14m2 Ensuite 1 features striking 266 x 230mm hexagonal tiles (Alchimia Mix 1 Bianco Grigio and Alchimia Esagono Bianco) for the walls, floors and shower area.

Before tiling commenced, the floor was primed with BAL Bond SBR, Wedi boards at 6mm were installed and under floor heating mat laid and covered with BAL Fibrebase levelling compound, before the tiles were set-out and fixed.

Without doubt the biggest challenge of the room was the setting out of the walls to ensure perfect symmetry of the room – including intricate internal cuts to ensure the correct pattern and size continued around corner with perfection. The finished walls and floors were grouted with BAL Micromax2 Gunmetal and sealed with matching silicone.

Ensuite 2 is tiled with large format ceramic tiles (Modern Colour White and Modern Colour Silver) in brick bond pattern on the walls and glazed porcelain on the floor fixed with BAL Single Part Flexible and BAL Supercover Rapidset. Featuring a number of intricate recesses, the bathroom was also finished with BAL Micromax2 in Gunmetal and colour-matched BAL Micromax Sealant for consistency of colour and tone.

Tiled with stunning book-matched marble by Isaac Davila from Rockford, Fior di Bosco and Rosa Auria Extra, the 22m2 master ensuite is an ode to high quality tiling.

Fixed with BAL Single Part Flexible on the walls and BAL Supercover Rapid Set on the floors, the ensuite features a walk-in shower with a brown marble book-matched seat and recess.

A converted attic space used to accommodate guests, the Guest Ensuite is surely the property’s pièce de résistance. After extensive and exhaustive preparation work including the cladding of the entire room with tile backer-board and double scratch-coats, the room was tiled with 5mm x 25mm Stone Glass Mix White mosaic tiles which curved around the upper radius of the room, and Petrified Tree White Lion Core Natural Porcelain Tiles fixed with BAL Supercover Rapidset and grouted in a brick bond pattern on the walls to complete a simply stunning wetroom.

BAL launches new and improved Easypoxy AG

BAL have launched a new and improved formulation of its hygienic waterproof BAL Easypoxy AG epoxy adhesive and grout for walls and floors.

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Chemical-resistant and solvent free, the new formulation provides end users with an epoxy that is much easier to mix, apply and clean-off during installations.

Now available in white, black and grey, BAL Easypoxy AG has an excellent set time of only 12 hours, compared to 24 hours with the previous formulation.

What’s more, the new formulation has an extended pot life of 45 minutes, giving users more time to mix and apply.

Recommended for commercial and domestic installations including kitchens, industrial/chemical plants, showers, swimming pools and other hygienic critical environments, BAL Easypoxy AG is perfect for ceramics, porcelain and fully vitrified tiles, mosaics and glass or translucent tiles including glass mosaics.

Alex Underwood, Head of Marketing, said: “BAL leads the UK tiling market with our continued focus on innovative solutions and leading performance for our end users. This focus ensures we develop new products with our customer base at the heart of this process.

“This new formulation will provide immense benefits for fixers, contractors and specifiers alike, producing significant time and cost savings and ensuring tiling installations are durable and resistant to the challenges of hygiene critical locations.”

BAL Level Max named as top-10 flooring product

BAL Level Max – the innovative new levelling compound from the market-leaders in full tiling solutions – has been named as one of the top-10 best flooring products in the UK following a public vote.

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The single part self-smoothing compound, which was launched in August last year, was one of 50 products and services shortlisted for the Tomorrow’s Contract Floors Awards 2016.

BAL Level Max was nominated for the awards by readers of the magazine.

Formulated with innovative Fibre Strand Technology (FST) for extra strength and flexibility, BAL Level Max is an all-in-one leveller that boasts a maximum bed depth of up to 80mm in a single application – the largest depth in the market – meaning it can easily level backgrounds with varying heights.

What’s more, BAL Level Max only requires a bed depth of 3mm over timber, whereas many alternate products in the UK require a minimum bed depth of 10mm. This means BAL Level Max can provide over three-times more coverage than these products.

Self-smoothing with excellent flow, BAL Level Max has a protein free formulation and is pumpable for large commercial flooring projects.

Product performance recognition is so high with fixers and contractors that BAL Level Max has generated a like-for-like increase in demand of over 400% since launch, compared to all other previous BAL levelling compounds combined.

Alex Underwood, Head of Marketing at BAL, said: “For BAL Level Max to be named as one of the top-10 flooring products and services in the UK is a massive achievement, especially as BAL Level Max had only been launched for 3 months before readers selected their favourite innovations.

“The response to the product in the market place has been truly fantastic, and this vote is real recognition of the product’s outstanding features and benefits as an all-in-one product with maximum performance – and especially when considering readers vote for the best products across all flooring product categories, not just levelling compounds.

“Thank you to everyone who voted.”

In addition to outstanding performance, users of BAL Level Max also enjoy market-leading peace of mind on all installations with a complete 25 year guaranteed system solution and unrivalled technical support, including BAL Technical Advisory Service and on-the-road Product Support Technicians for project support from start to finish.

To find out more about BAL Level Max visit www.bal-adhesives.com/products/level-max/

BAL previews external tiling systems at the SDS2016

BAL have made a successful return to the Surface Design Show in London to offer a preview of the new Gutjahr range to architects, designers and specifiers.

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The exhibition, which was held from 9-11 February at the Business Design Centre in Islington, attracted more than 6,000 industry professional and trade visitors to compare and specify the latest products in internal and external surfacing and architectural design.

Launching to the market this Spring, the Gutjahr system technology from BAL specialises in drainage, ventilating and uncoupling solutions for balconies, patios, terraces and on facades and interiors.

For more than 25 years, BAL’s sister company Gutjahr have developed long-lasting trouble-free covering even on problem substrates throughout Europe for prestigious projects including Amsterdam Library, The Palace of Hambach, the Frankfurt Airrail Centre and the Weimar National Theatre.

Gutjahr is the inventor of the passive capillary surface drainage system. The patented system is simple to install and will protect coverings of ceramic tiles and natural stone. It has even become standard in Germany since 2002 being incorporated into the standards for external floor coverings of the German Construction Industry Association (ZDB).

Alex Underwood, Head of Marketing at BAL, said: “The Surface Design Show is one of the premier specification events in the UK to showcase products and services, so we were delighted to return with our new innovation which was positively received by visitors to the stand.

“Gutjahr systems technology represents new, innovative ideas – a vision shared by BAL. We are proud to incorporate Gutjahr’s product range exclusively within the BAL portfolio as a further development of a full system service from the UK market-leader for tiling.”

As well as introducing Gutjahr at the show, the team at BAL also highlighted some of the firm’s  unique business tools for specifiers and architects including its free M40/M20 specification writing service, RIBA-accredited CPDs, and unique Sample Testing Service for new materials and backgrounds for use in tiling installations.

For more information on Gutjahr System Technology exclusively from BAL, please speak to a member of the BAL Specification Support Team on 01782 591120.

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BAL expands specification support team with two appointments

Building Adhesives Ltd (BAL), the market-leading manufacturer of full tiling solutions including adhesives, grouts and ancillary products, has hired two new Specification Managers as part of its drive to expand its specification support team.Tracey Hopkins cropped

Alan Thurston and Tracey Hopkins will work with archi
tects, designers and specifiers supporting them on M40/M20 specifications, providing project support and delivering RIBA-accredited CPDs.

Tracey will deliver support in North West and South West London while Alan will work with clients in the Midlands.

Alan has mAlan thurston croppedore than 20 years’ experience in the flooring sector, working alongside architects, specifiers, contractors and sub-contractors for companies including Altro, Polydeck Resins, and RSL. Key installations Alan has supported include flooring for Chelsea Football Club, Wimbledon, and BAA.

Tracey also has significant experience in the flooring and walling sector with companies including Tarkett UK, Altro, and Interface supporting end-users, designers, contractors, distributors and architects on key projects and delivering RIBA-accredited CPDs.

BAL National Specification Manager, Matthew Leaver, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Alan and Tracey to the team as part of our continued development and investment in the specification sector to support all parties in delivering long-lasting and high quality tiling projects across the whole of the UK.

“This investment confirms BAL’s position as a leading commercial projects brand, providing quality tiling products and providing a host of support services for designers and architects to assist them from design to build.”

BAL has a number of free tools available to architects and specifiers to assist them from project start to completion including Powerspec.com, a free specification tool to help create concise, technically accurate and up-to-date specifications for tiling installations.

Specifiers and architects can also take advantage of BAL’s free and dedicated Technical Advisory and Specification Service (TAS) for technical queries and Sample Testing Service to ensure the correct selection of tiles and fixing products during the specification process.

BAL can provide a solution for any background, environment or tile material and is trusted throughout the industry for its quality and lasting performance.

New technology to be previewed at Surface Design Show

Building Adhesives Ltd (BAL) – the market-leading manufacturing of full tiling solutions including adhesives, grouts and ancillary products – is making a welcome return to the Surface Design Show.

BAL, which last exhibited at the UK’s leading surfaces and materials event in 2014, will be showcasing its products and services for the specification market on Stand 610 at this year’s event taking place from 9-11 February 2016 at the Business Design SDS
Centre in Islington, North London.

In 2015 the exhibition attracted more than 5,000 industry professionals and trade visitors to compare and specify the latest product in internal and external surfacing and architectural design.

Founded in 1963 and based in Stoke-on-Trent, BAL has history of providing full fixing solutions for any type of environment, background or tile and is trusted throughout the industry for its quality and lasting performance.

As well as launching a new, innovative product line at the show, BAL will also be highlighting some of its unique business tools for specifiers and architects including its free M40/M20 specification writing service, RIBA-accredited CPDs, and unique Sample Testing Service to help recommend the correct fixing products for new backgrounds and materials.

Alex Underwood, BAL Head of Marketing, said: “We’re delighted to be returning to the Surface Design Show after a year away to highlight our full range of products and services to support the design and build of quality tiling installations.

“We’re especially excited to be introducing a ground-breaking new product line to the market that will revolutionise the design and development of balconies, decking and external areas. The exhibition will give specifiers the opportunity to see the benefits of the range before the full market launch”

Visitors to the stand will also be able to meet members of BAL’s dedicated Specification Support Team, and find out about the tools available to them including Powerspec.com, BAL’s free online specification tool for concise, technically accurate and up-to-date specifications, and BAL Technical Advisory and Specification Service (TAS).

BAL Level Max shortlisted for industry award

BAL Level Max, the game-changing floor levelling compound from the market leaders in full tiling solutions, has been shortlisted for the Tomorrow’s Contract Floors Awards 2016.

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BAL Level Max, which is formulated with innovative Fibre Strand Technology (FST) and boasts a maximum bed depth of up to 80mm in a single application, has been nominated by readers of the magazine which is distributed to more than 58,000 tilers, flooring contractors and architects.

All nominated products will feature in the Tomorrow’s Contract Floors Awards 2016 Guide, with an online readers’ vote opening in January.

BAL Level Max combines the benefits of BAL’s levelling expertise to provide users with a complete, all-in-one flooring product for preparing internal floor surfaces for the installation of tiles, natural stone, vinyl or soft furnishings.

Product performance recognition is so high with fixers and contractors that BAL Level Max has generated a like-for-like increase in demand of over 400% since launch, compared to all other previous BAL levelling compounds combined.

BAL Level Max also boasts a maximum bed depth of 80mm in a single application – the largest depth in the market – meaning it easily levels backgrounds with varying heights.

What’s more, BAL Level Max only requires a bed depth of 3mm over timber, whereas many alternate products in the UK require a minimum bed depth of 10mm. This means BAL Level Max can provide over three-times more coverage than these products.

Alex Underwood, Head of Marketing at BAL, said: “We’re delighted that BAL Level Max has been shortlisted for this industry accolade. What makes it even more special is the fact the product has been nominated by industry experts.

“Developed in conjunction with tilers and flooring contractors, we truly believe that BAL Level Max meets the needs of the market for an all-in-on leveller that delivers maximum performance without hitting customers in the pocket.

“In addition to outstanding performance, users of BAL Level Max also enjoy market-leading peace of mind on all installations with a complete 25 year guaranteed system solution and unrivalled technical support, including BAL Technical Advisory Service and on-the-road Product Support Technicians for project support from start to finish.”

To find out more about BAL Level Max click here

BAL named as Top-6 firm for sustainable manufacturing

Building Adhesives Ltd has been shortlisted as one of the top-six best performing companies in the UK for sustainable manufacturing.

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Building Adhesives Ltd, which specialises in the development and manufacture of tiling and decorating products, was named as a finalist in The Manufacturer MX Awards 2015, sponsored by the Natwest.

The national awards, run by The Manufacturer magazine and the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, celebrated the best in manufacturing excellence across all industries within the UK at a special awards ceremony at The ICC in Birmingham in November.

To be shortlisted, Building Adhesives had to demonstrate a company-wide commitment and proven business case for sustainability.

Judges considered how the business has a sustainable approach to improve commercial performance, competitiveness, employee engagement, and customer and supplier perception. Judges also looked for innovative practices, future sustainability plans and a commitment to reducing its impact on the environment.

Peter Bell, Managing Director at Building Adhesives, said: “Being named as one of the top-six manufacturing companies in the UK for sustainability is a huge achievement for the firm.

“To be shortlisted is evidence of our investment in our employees, equipment, processes and external accreditation to ensure our business activities do not compromise the environment for future generations, and that there is a sustainable demand for our products that meet the needs of the customer (environmentally and in use).”

Nick Hussey, CEO of Hennik Group, publishers of The Manufacturer magazine and organisers of the awards said “It is an incredible achievement to have been shortlisted – these are the largest and most rigorously judged awards in the sector so any company being shortlisted will have provided evidence to the judges of a superior level of understanding of what makes modern UK manufacturing so vibrant and competitive.

“Manufacturing is very much alive and well and the shortlisted companies are exemplars of what advanced manufacturing looks like in terms of sustainability, innovation and world class competitiveness”.

BAL strengthens unique support network

BAL, the market-leading manufacturer of full tiling solutions, has appointed Rushden-based Alan Collins as its Product Support Technician (PST) for East Anglia, strengthening its nationwide technical support and training capability.

Alan Collins

The PST concept is unique to BAL, which has placed strong emphasis on support throughout its history.

Alan’s role focuses on practical training and advice for products and service tools, advising on specification, helping to resolve project issues as well as providing advice on all aspects of professional tiling to fixers, contractors and distributors.

In addition, Alan will provide sales support to distributors across the region increasing brand awareness and driving sales of BAL’s extensive range of tiling and preparation products which are all covered by a unique 25 year guarantee.

Alan has many years’ experience in the tiling industry and joins the company from James Hardie UK, where his role included supporting customers, technical training and sales. Prior to that, he held roles at large national and regional tiling distributors.

Commenting on his appointment, he said: “I’m delighted to join the market-leader in what is an exciting time for the company with the development of innovative products such as BAL Level Max, our new all-in-one levelling compound with FST.  Highly regarded throughout the industry, BAL’s PST network embodies what is good about the company – that is quality products backed up by the technical and practical support that can be trusted. It’s great to be part of that team.”

BAL Product Support Manager, Gary Knowles, said: “BAL was the first adhesive manufacturer to create a nationwide network of Product Support Technicians to provide hands-on, personal support for all tiling industry professionals.

“Alan has a wealth of experience in the tiling industry and his appointment underlines our commitment to investing in leading industry support.”

BAL helps protect 3,000 Amazonian villagers

Nearly 3,000 indigenous villagers and 80,000 trees in the Peruvian rainforest have been protected thanks to a partnership between BAL and Cool Earth – Europe’s fastest growing environmental charity.

Cool Earth works with villagers in South America to prevent rainforests from being cut down. Funding a local trust, Cool Earth makes the local community the legal custodians of the land, and uses community rangers and satellite imagery to monitor and protect the rainforest 24/7 from illegal activity.

Supported by celebrities such as Vivienne Westwood, Ricky Gervais, and Kate Moss, and backed by leading environmentalist such as Sir David Attenborough and Sir Nicholas Stern, the charity institutes sustainable employment programmes, and supports schools and clinics, so that indigenous rainforest communities do not suffer from lost logging income.

As part of its partnership with Cool Earth, BAL funds the protection of one square metre of rainforest in for every square metre of BAL’s tile adhesive range used.

Since partnering with Cool Earth, BAL has helped protect 333 acres and 79,920 trees – locking in 86,580 tonnes of CO2 that would otherwise be released into the atmosphere contributing to global warming and climate change.

Alex Underwood, Head of Marketing at BAL – the UK’s market-leader in tiling solutions – said the company was proud of its environmental commitment and partnership with Cool Earth.

“BAL is proud to be the only company in the tile industry to have become a partner of Cool Earth where fixers, contractors and specifiers using our products are making a measurable difference to protecting the rainforest.

“Thanks to our partnership, 16 indigenous Ashaninka villages in Peru’s Ene Valley have been linked together to shield millions of acres of neighbouring forest from illegal logging and coca which is destroying the forest.

“As well as protecting the local populace, Cool Earth’s ground-breaking work has helped protect 19 endangered species and shelter more than 8,000 species of animal at risk.

“Our partnership with Cool Earth is just part of our commitment to the environment, which also includes setting the highest standards in environmental management through the product life cycle from raw materials sourcing, product manufacture and consumer use.”

So far Cool Earth has already saved over 541,000 acres from deforestation – an area larger than Greater London. Protecting some 129 million trees has prevented over 140 million tonnes of CO2 emissions.

To find out more about BAL’s partnership with Cool Earth visit www.coolearth.org/bal

Introducing BAL Micromax2 Anthracite

BAL, the market-leader in tiling solutions, has introduced a new Anthracite shade to extend its Micromax2 range of super-fine, flexible wall and floor grouts. The new Anthracite shade is available in 2.5kg, 5kg and 10kg bags and is also supported with the launch of a colour matched silicone sealant.

The ashen-hued grout is the perfect match for darker tiles that don’t quite pair with Ebony, the darkest shade of the BAL Micromax2 family. As trends for ‘different shades of grey’ grow, the BAL Micromax2 range now offers a full colour spectrum within its pallet of colours.

BAL Micromax2 was developed with fixers and contractors across the country to create the ultimate grout for tiling; a grout that meets every demand of a tiler and their customers.

It’s technologically enhanced formulation ensures enduring good look and consistent colour with no efflorescence, patchiness or shading, even across the largest areas. What’s more, its super smooth formulation allows for easy application into gaps as fine as 1mm, while its super strong and flexible characteristics mean it is suitable for joints as wide as 20mm.

BAL Micromax2 comes with built-in Microban® protection to stop the growth of bacteria and unsightly black mould, to further ensure that perfect results last the lifetime of your tiles.

As well as top product performance, fixers, contractors and specifiers can enjoy the benefits of BAL’s 25 year guarantee, on and off-site project support and expert technical advice to give them peace of mind that their projects will last the test of time.

BAL Micromax2 is also available in White, Manilla, Jasmine, Pebble, Chocolate, Gunmetal, Smoke, Ebony and Cocoa, as well as the new Anthracite.

Get ultimate waterproof protection with BAL Tank-it

Suitable for internal or external waterproofing, BAL Tank-it is the new, ultimate tanking system formulated with innovative technology from the UK’s market-leaders in tiling solutions.

Highly polymer-modified, BAL Tank-it is a two-part, rapid-setting product which provides complete protection and can be tiled after only 90 minutes.

Easy to use, BAL Tank-it can be applied by either simply using a standard 4mm notched trowel and float, brush or roller. As it conforms to BS EN 14891 classification it can also be applied outside for projects including terraces, balconies and fountains. Furthermore, BAL Tank-it is perfect for waterproofing areas of total immersion such as swimming pools, hydrotherapy pools, spas and hot tubs.

With BAL Tank-it no priming is required, producing significant time and cost savings on key installations for tilers and contractors.

BAL Tank-it components – 5kg powder, 5l liquid and 20m scrim tape – are each sold separately allowing ease of use on larger commercial and domestic products.

As well as providing ultimate all-round performance, ultimate workability and ultimate versatility, BAL Tank-it comes with a complete 25 year guarantee when used as part of a full BAL system solution providing market-leading peace of mind on all installations.

Users can also rely on BAL for complete project support. No other brand can offer so much experience and expertise including free technical advice, free on-site consultancy, free training and free specification service.

Now available in stockists nationwide, BAL Tank-it is the revolutionary new waterproofing system for complete protection in any environment, ensuring your projects look great and last the test of time.

Discover more here

Introducing BAL Level Max – the new all-in-one leveller

With innovative Fibre Strand Technology (FST), bed depths up to 80mm in a single application and suitable for use over most bases including timber at 3mm, BAL Level Max levelling compound is the latest innovation from the market-leader in tiling; BAL.

Already received with great acclaim by tilers and flooring contractors, BAL Level Max combines the benefits of BAL’s levelling expertise to provide users with a complete, all-in-one flooring product for preparing internal floor surfaces for the installation of tiles, natural stone, vinyl or soft furnishings.

With a max bed depth of 80mm in a single application – the largest depth in the market –BAL Level Max easily levels backgrounds with varying heights.

Competitively priced, BAL Level Max reduces overall project costs and duration significantly with easier and faster installation. With an outstanding flow rate and 30 minutes working time it is easy to screed, while it accepts foot traffic in three hours and can be tiled after only four hours.

What’s more, BAL Level Max only requires a depth of 3mm over timber, whereas many alternate products in the UK require a minimum bed depth of 10mm. This means BAL Level Max can provide over three-times more coverage than these competitor products.

As seen here BAL Level Max is suitable for levelling most backgrounds and provides superior performance with key features including added flexibility and strength, self-smoothing capability, low shrinkage and a protein free formulation.

BAL Level Max is extremely versatile making it suitable for domestic and commercial projects as it is pumpable and achieves excellent coverage of 5m² at 3mm bed depth.

Available in 25kg packs, BAL Level Max is perfect prior to the installation of tiles or floor coverings even on key installations such as Under Floor Heating.

In addition to its outstanding performance, users will also enjoy market-leading peace of mind on all installations with a complete 25 year guaranteed system solution and unrivalled technical support, including BAL Technical Advisory Service and on-the-road Product Support Technicians for project support from start to finish.

Now Available through hundreds of stockists nationwide, BAL Level Max is the ultimate, high-performance leveller giving you the perfect start to your flooring project.

BAL specified for Huddersfield Leisure Centre

BAL, the UK’s market leaders in full tiling solutions, have played a crucial role in the development of a new 12,500m², £36m leisure centre in the heart of Huddersfield, West Yorkshire.

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Recently opened, Huddersfield Leisure Centre features a range of top sporting and leisure facilities, including a 25m competition pool, 20m training pool with moveable floor and a family leisure pool with interactive water features, water flume and sidewinder.

What’s more, visitors can enjoy squash courts, a 15m climbing wall, bouldering wall, twelve court sports hall, large gym, cycle studio and combat room.

The centre also features changing facilities, offices, meeting rooms and a large café.

The new centre was designed to meet the clients brief for a multi-purpose sporting and leisure facility for the local community which compliments the existing street pattern and contributes to the regeneration of the town and surrounding region.

BAL tile adhesives, grouts, sealants and preparation products were all specified for the project which featured more than 10,000m² of tiling in the main changing rooms, upstairs changing rooms, pool surround, leisure pool and main swimming pools.

BAL worked extensively with project architects AHR, main contractors BAM, tiling contractors The Tiling Company and tile suppliers Ceramique Internationale Ltd from design to completion, including specification support from BAL’s Technical Advisory Service (TAS) and on-site support from BAL’s expert Product Support Technicians.

David Longbottom, Specification Manager at Ceramique Internationale, said: “We called upon BAL at the very beginning of the project for their technical advice and full NBS specification for the tiling, and we would like to thank them for their hard work on this prestigious project.

“BAL are a tried and trusted manufacturer, always providing quality tiling products, with back-up support and technical advice from design to build.”

BAL products used at Huddersfield Leisure Centre included numerous preparation products such as BAL Quickset Cement, BAL Quickset Render, BAL Prime APD and BAL Bond SBR (acrylic primer for walls and floors, bonding agent for walls and floors respectively).

A number of different tile adhesives were utilised throughout the project including BAL Single Part Flexible (flexible adhesive), BAL Supercover Rapid Flexible (fast-setting, high yield tile adhesive), BAL Rapidset Flexible (fast-setting flexible adhesive) and BAL Max Flex Fibre (flexible, fibre-reinforced adhesive).

The stunning tiling work was completed with grouts including BAL Microflex White, BAL Superflex White, BAL Superflex Wide Joint in Grey, White and Limestone, BAL Grout White and BAL Easypoxy White. Movement joints and edges were sealed with BAL Micromax Smoke (flexible, anti-microbial silicone sealant).

BAL strengthens specification support team

Building Adhesives Ltd, the market-leading manufacturer of tile adhesives, grouts, sealants and ancillary products, has continued to strengthen its specification support team with the appointment of William McLachlan as Business Development Manager.

Will McLachlan

William will work with architects, designers and specifiers in the London area supporting them on M40/M20 specification, providing project support and delivering RIBA-accredited CPDs.

He said: “I am delighted to have joined the market-leaders in tiling products in what is period of growth in the industry – especially in the specification sector.

“BAL are acknowledged as an innovative brand, leading the field in quality tiling products and providing a host of support services for designers and architects to assist them throughout their tiling projects, ensuring they last the test of time.

“I look forward to continue working with designers and architects, helping them to utilise the great products, people and technical knowhow available from BAL, including our free PowerSpec specification tool, to create concise, technically accurate and up-to-date specifications for tiling, as well as a team of experts who can provide designs and specifications completely free on their behalf.”

William joins BAL from Porcelanosa where he worked as Commercial Specification Manager for the company’s entire product portfolio, working with architects, designers and contractors on large UK and international-based projects.

Previously he worked as Business Development Manager for Porcelanosa’s Noken brand, raising brand awareness and developing opportunities through regional house-builders, developers, architects, independent retailers, trade and commercial contracts sales.

BAL Head of Sales, Steve Ball, said: “William’s appointment is part of our continued investment and growth in the specification sector, supporting architects, designers and specifiers to deliver high-quality and long-lasting tiling projects.

“With more than 50 years of technical innovation and know-how behind us, we are relied upon by professionals throughout the industry for product quality and outstanding technical support from design to completion.”

Prestigious award for BAL training manager

BAL Training Manager Dave Rowley has been recognised with a prestigious industry award for playing a vital contribution to the development of skills and knowledge throughout the tiling industry.

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Dave, who joined BAL in 1992 after completing an apprenticeship in wall and floor tiling, was presented with the Outstanding Contribution to Industry award at The Tile Association Awards 2015.

Alex Underwood, Head of Marketing, said: “Dave has been instrumental in helping to raise standards across the industry, developing and delivering modular introductory courses for new people entering the industry as well as structured and bespoke training courses on advanced techniques and product knowledge.

“Since joining BAL, Dave has personally trained in the region of 10,000 people, helping to position BAL as the leading manufacturer for training excellence. Most recently he was at the forefront of the development of the company’s new state-of-the-art Innovation and Technology Centre which provides outstanding facilities to deliver innovative training courses for distributors, retailers, contractors, specifiers and tilers.”

Over many years Dave has developed and updated NVQs/SVQs and EWPAR qualifications and is a qualified assessor and internal verifier in wall and floor tiling. He also works with colleges and independent training providers to oversee product training in line with qualification structures.

Since 2009 Dave has been the lead judge for the national SkillBuild finals for wall and floor tiling. Organised by the CITB (Construction Industry Training Board), SkillBuild provides an important showcase for trainees, and helps to improve workmanship and increase standards across the industry.

Dave is an active member of the TTA Fixer Training Committee and is Chairman of the TTA Supply Chain Committee where is currently involved in a new initiative to standardise training for the supply chain, with a pilot project set to being in the near future.

On receiving his award Dave said: “I am extremely passionate about training, which I believe is vital to the continued success of the company and the tiling industry in general.

“Maintaining high standards and fixing techniques helps to prevent poor practices and incorrect specifications which can have a negative impact for all in the industry including manufacturers, distributors, specifiers, contractors and fixers.

“At BAL training is a key priority, which is why we have invested in our high spec Innovation and Technology Centre to give everyone in the industry the opportunity to learn about the latest technologies and installation practices to enhance their skills.”

 

BAL Rapid-Mat wins award for innovation

BAL Rapid-Mat, the revolutionary new uncoupling solution, has been voted by industry experts as “Best Innovation” at The Tile Association Awards 2015.

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One of the most significant innovations in the uncoupling mat market for more than 15 years, the BAL Rapid-Mat is a new solution to accommodate lateral movement for tile installations encountered by fixers, contractors and specifiers.

What’s more, BAL Rapid-Mat is the only uncoupling system on the market that is fully guaranteed for 25 years by the suppliers.

Alex Underwood, Head of Marketing at BAL, commented:  “Being named as the Best Innovation by industry experts is proof of Rapid-Mat’s position as the cutting-edge solution in the uncoupling mat market. Delivering a number of unique benefits compared to traditional cavity mat systems. BAL Rapid-Mat gives fixers and contractors peace of mind that their projects will stand the test of time.

“Thinner, lighter and faster – the BAL Rapid-Mat has been highly engineered by our team of technicians and scientists to transform the uncoupling mat market and help meet the needs of the tiling industry.”

Designed in conjunction with fixers, contractors and installers, BAL Rapid-Mat is designed for problematic floors, such as those that may be subject to lateral movement stresses. It is perfect with underfloor heating, timber substrates and other challenging backgrounds.

Furthermore, it helps reduce project costs and duration, requiring 20% less adhesive than traditional cavity uncoupling mats, which need almost “an extra layer of adhesive” to fill the surface cavities or dimples. The saving amounts to using 1.5 kg less adhesive per square metre, a major saving of 45 kg adhesive per 30 metre roll.

BAL Rapid-Mat saves more time on-site by being faster and simpler to lay than other mats, due to its lightweight profile and printed cutting guidelines. In addition it can be laid either side uppermost, unlike cavity-based mats which require cavities to be on top. Each piece of BAL Rapid-Mat is simply butt-jointed to the next, without the need to buy and apply additional tapes.

Being only 1mm thick, compared to 4mm for other traditional cavity systems, means it also occupies less storage space. A full 30 metre roll also weighs just 8.5 kg, making it easy to transport and carry around the site. The slimness also makes it ideal for laying over existing tiling, as it offers a minimal increase in floor height.

BAL Rapid-Mat is available through hundreds of stockists nationwide and can be purchased by the roll or by the metre.

The annual TTA Awards are the most prestigious awards in UK tiling industry, recognising excellence throughout the industry. This award is the latest in a long series of TTA successes for BAL, the long-established market leader in professional tile adhesives and grouts.

 

BAL launches new training courses at newly opened centre

BAL, the market leader in tile adhesives, grouts and ancillary products, has launched a host of new training courses at its newly opened Innovation and Technology Centre in Stoke-on-Trent.

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A range of practical and theoretical day courses are available, led by Dave Rowley, BAL Training Manager and members of BAL Technical Advisory Service.

“Training is a key priority at BAL, and we believe it is pivotal for everyone in the industry  – professional fixers, contractors,  retail and distribution staff, specifiers and students – to have the opportunity to learn about our the latest technologies and installation practices to  enhance their skills,” commented Mr Rowley.

“All training takes place at our state-of-the-art Innovation and Technology Centre with its practical training bays, demonstration auditorium and conference rooms providing the perfect training facility for all our courses.”

Fixers and installers can take advantage of a number of courses, whether they are new to the trade, at college, or have many years’ experience.

Courses include:

  • An introduction to adhesives & grouts
  • An introduction to screeds and subfloor preparation
  • Preparing and tiling timber floors
  • Preparing and tiling to anhydrite screeds
  • Preparing and tiling to under tile heating
  • Preparing and tiling to acoustic systems
  • Tiling and grouting for hygiene or chemical environments
  • Preparing and tiling wet rooms and external balconies

Training techniques include presentations, workshops, demonstrations and hands-on practical experience within individual working bays with mock-up windows, pipework and toilets for example,,  to reflect real life installations.
All courses cost £50 (including VAT), bar the Introduction to Adhesives & Grouts Course which is free. On completion, delegates will receive a BAL certificate of completion, £75 worth of free product (at average trade price value), and a goody bag.

Bespoke training days can also be created by delegates by selecting specific modules for their training day, ensuring their training experience is tailored exactly to their needs.

BAL training for retailers and distributors is also available, providing the skills and knowledge to sell adhesives, grouts and other products with confidence and gain qualifications along the way.

Courses include:

  • TTA Retail Apprenticeship Material Training Programme
  • Product Champion Programme
  • Bespoke Training

All courses for retail staff are free and include practical and theoretical training on tile types, background preparation, fixing methods, products and more.

“Thanks to our flexible approach, tilers, contractors and retailers can build their courses as they please to meet their own individual requirements,” added Mr Rowley.

“Contact us now to discuss all the options available.”

For more information on course dates and availability call 01782 591120 or email training@building-adhesives.com

BAL breaks new ground with launch of high spec training centre

A state-of-the art £300,000 Innovation and Technology Centre (ITC) has been officially opened by the leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council Councillor Mohammad Pervez at Building Adhesives Ltd in Trentham.

ITC OD22

Councillor Pervez opened the Centre alongside the Company’s Managing Director Peter Bell at a special launch event on March 11th.

Founded in 1963, Building Adhesives Ltd is the market leader in the development, manufacture and distribution of tile adhesives, grouts, sealants, and associated building products through its BAL and DUNLOP brands.

Revolutionising training in the tiling sector, the purpose-built ITC delivers a significant upgrade on the firm’s current BAL Training Academy and features a state-of-the-art demonstration auditorium, practical training bays and meeting rooms.

Providing the perfect platform for training in tiling techniques, skills and product use, the multi-use venue is available to a range of people in the tiling and construction industries including apprentices, installers, architects, specifiers, distributors, retailers and colleges.

A full programme of courses is available at the ITC, helping to raise standards across the industry and support vocational qualifications. Bespoke course are also available to suit individual requirements.

Mr Bell said the investment in the new facility was part of the company’s overall strategy as the market-leader to increase its training provision and help raise standards across the industry.

“The opening of the Innovation and Technology Centre is proof that we are committed to not only providing the best products, but also the complete package of support for our customers, distributors and suppliers including technical support and training,” he said.

“Building Adhesives Ltd was founded in the city in 1963 as the development centre for the British Ceramic tile industry and we were the first adhesive manufacturer to offer industry training – and the first to open a training centre – so training and development has always been fundamental for us.

From our highly qualified team of scientists, to our technical advisory team, customer support teams, marketing and administrative departments, we are dedicated to leading the industry in innovation and training. The Innovation and Technology Centre provides another milestone in the construction industry and cements our place as the market leader.

“The construction of the Innovation and Technology Centre is also evidence of our continuing commitment to manufacturing in the city of Stoke-on-Trent and providing the community with a superb training facility to develop skills and support industry qualifications.”

Dave Rowley, BAL Training Manager, who has been leading training at the company for more than 20 years, added:  “The Innovation and Technology Centre provides a significant enhancement of our training facilities and allows us to cater for a larger number of delegates than ever before.

“The large auditorium provides seats for 40 delegates with a total capacity for 100 delegates and features high spec A/V and projection facilities and removable training bays for high impact practical demonstrations and theoretical presentations.

“We can also provide CPDs and presentations in our state-of-the-art meeting room, while our practical training bays can be altered to provide realistic environments as the training course requires.”

A number of college students have already taken part in training at the centre, and bookings are now being taken for upcoming courses.

For information on BAL courses at the ITC contact Janet Webster , Training Administrator on 01782 591120 or email training@building-adhesives.com

BAL strengthens specifier support

Building Adhesives Ltd, the market-leading manufacturer of tile adhesives, grouts, sealants and ancillary products, has appointed Matthew Leaver as their new national Business Development Manager, strengthening the company specification support.

Matt Leaver2

Matthew’s role includes working with architects, designers and specifiers to support them on M40/M20 specifications, deliver project support and provide RIBA-accredited CPDs.

He said: “I am delighted to join the market-leader in tile adhesives in what is an exciting time in the industry, particularly the launch of the NBS National BIM Library where BAL became one of the first tile adhesive manufacturers to sign up.

“To work with the industry’s market-leader provides many unique solutions and services for the specification sector.  I look forward to continue working with designers and architects for BAL,  utilising our great products, people and the technical knowhow available to assist them throughout a tiling project. Support through our free PowerSpec specification tool,  to create concise, technically accurate and up-to-date specifications for tiling, as well as teams of experts who can provide designs and specifications completely free on their behalf, are just part of the added-value BAL provides every day.”

Matthew has more than 14 years’ experience in architecture and design specification working for tile manufacturers and distributors including Porcelanosa, CTD/Worlds End Tiles, Domus and H&R Johnsons.

He has worked with architects and interior designers including Fosters, Gensler, BDP, Johnson Naylor and Zaha Hadid on projects including The Heron Tower, Helter Skelter and the Deutsche Bank HQ in London.

BAL Head of Marketing, Alex Underwood, said: “With more than 50 years of technical innovation and know-how behind us, we are relied upon by professionals for product quality and outstanding technical support throughout all stages of a project from design to completion.

“Matt’s appointment underlines our continual investment in leading the industry in support and is proof of our commitment to working closely with architects, designers and specifiers to deliver high-quality projects

Everything for tiling – properly guaranteed

Tilers nationwide can now source everything they need from a single supplier, all covered by a 25 year guarantee, thanks to BAL. The market leader in professional tile adhesives and grouts fully guarantees everything bearing its name, including BAL Rapid-Mat, its remarkable new uncoupling solution. This has taken the market by storm, being the UK’s first and only uncoupling mat fully guaranteed for 25 years by the supplier.

BAL Rapid-Mat in action

BAL Head of Marketing, Alex Underwood, said, “We understand how important a proper guarantee is to professionals and their customers. Everything we supply comes with a formal 25 year guarantee, so that fixers can have complete confidence in their first-choice tile adhesives, grouts, uncoupling solutions, levellers, primers and preparation products, sealants, admixtures and more. BAL has always believed that if a company really has faith in what it supplies, it will back it with a written guarantee.”

Dave Stott, winner of the TTA Tiler of the Year award 2013, said, “Fixers do not want vague assurances from suppliers. We expect a clear, written guarantee so that we know where we stand with products. BAL is the only manufacturer to offer a straightforward 25 year promise, which it puts on its web site for everyone to see. Apart from the guarantee, which is even printed on the mat, BAL Rapid-Mat is so much better in every way than anything else. It is thinner, lighter and needs a lot less adhesive. Once you have tried BAL Rapid-Mat, you do not want to use anything else.”

BAL Rapid-Mat is designed for problematic floors, such as those that may be subject to lateral movement stresses. It is perfect with underfloor heating, timber substrates and other challenging backgrounds. It reduces project time by being faster to install, as demonstrated here. It also delivers major cost benefits by using over 20% less adhesive than cavity-based uncoupling mats.

BAL Rapid-Mat is available through hundreds of stockists nationwide and, unlike other uncoupling mats, is covered by BAL’s full 25 year guarantee.

Building Adhesives Ltd business excellence recognised

Building Adhesives Ltd have been recognised for business excellence by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) as part of their Manufacturing Excellence Awards (MX). MX is a business improvement and awards programme designed to support and promote UK manufacturers in ensuring industry productivity and worldwide competitiveness. Building Adhesives Ltd were shortlisted in the first ever Regional MX Awards, as ImechE cited Building Adhesives for, “various business improvements and introducing a programme to improve working relationships.”

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Building Adhesives entered the MX Awards as a means of assessing its performance in comparison with the best manufacturing organisations. The aim was to identify best practice and, where appropriate, change its operating methods to compete with the very best UK companies.

David Shepherd, BAL Operations Director, said, “MX looks at all areas of a business and does not simply focus on manufacturing.  It covers such areas as new product development, employee development, sales and customer service, environmental performance, finance and more. It assesses performance in each area, so that any improvement plan identified can be focused as appropriate. We are delighted to be shortlisted for the Midlands area, and considered in respect of overall performance.”

BAL will now proceed to the IMechE National Awards, where entries are considered by category.