54
JUNE 2014 PRO INSTALLER
PRO BUSINESS
www.proinstaller.co.uk
MARBREX COMPLETES
NEXUS HOUSING BATHROOM
REFURBISHMENT
Marbrex, a low maintenance PVC-U panelling system has been installed in 40 bathrooms at Chalverton Court in Droitwich Spa, Worcestershire.
The washroom facilities were completed as part
of an annual bathroom refurbishment programme
managed by housing association Nexus Housing,
part of the WM Housing Group.
With over 2,800 properties, the Worcestershire-based
organisation works across six local authority areas and
faces a mix of urban and rural communities; therefore the
specification and use of appropriate products plays an
important role in the success of its planned maintenance
and repair programme.
Keith Wilkinson, maintenance surveyor for Nexus Housing explains why they chose to complete this programme
of works using the alternative wall covering. “We wanted
to move away from tiles as a wall finish for the shower
cubicle area, and source a product that would help prevent water penetration and ultimately the mould problems
associated with tiling and grout. Marbrex was recommended to us by a local contractor who had used it in the
past. I then researched the product; checking the choice
of board available and the quality of finish in-line with our
brief, and I’m pleased to say that the residents are very
happy with the results.”
The Marbrex products were supplied by local approved
stockist Specialised Building Plastics, Stirchley in a selection of finishes; Sandstone, Moonstone, Beige Marble Tile
and Grey Marble Tile.
Bathrooms are havens for moisture, steam, and condensation, all of which encourage damp, leading to the
build-up of ugly patches of black mould. Not only is this
unsightly but it can cause long-lasting and degenerative
damage both on and below the surface.
Tiles and grout in particular can attract a build-up of water and moisture. To eradicate this issue interior cladding
panels like Marbrex are available featuring an attractive
tile effect achieved with the design giving the illusion
of grout. This means that not only can the panels be
installed much quicker and with far less fuss, as no grout
is required, but they’re also easy to wipe down and keep
clean.
Sharon joins
IG Doors
Truedor Team
Her role is to support
the customer-focussed
approach of the business and to develop
relationships with trade
customers.
“If I had to choose one
strength I think it would
FENSA published its list of
Approved Providers of Insurance Backed Guarantees
(IBGs) a week before the
deadline (6 June) by which
installers are compelled to
provide, rather than simply
offer, an IBG to every customer and HomePro, and its
approved representative,
IPWFI have both been included on that list.
‘Sharon
comes from
an industry
background
spanning
24 years’
be my ability to develop
good relationships with
customers, and ensure
that they become our
long term partners.
When I applied for the
position I knew this was
something they were
looking for as a key
strength, and I am de-
www.marbrexpanels.co.uk
FENSA Names HomePro
And IPWFI As Only
Independent Approved
IBG Providers
IG Doors has recruited Sharon
Berry to spearhead sales of
its new trade range Truedor in
Wales and the South West.
Sharon comes from
an industry background spanning 24
years in which time
she has worked in
fabrication businesses, retail sales,
and trade sales and
has an understanding of windows,
doors, and hardware
systems.
Marbrex can be installed in around half the time required
for tiling. “Our approved contractor Lester Property Services, who carried out the refurbishment, found the board easy
to use and quick to fit,” continued Keith. If the walls are
clean, dry and flat then little preparation is required before
the panels can be fixed and they can even be fitted over
existing tiles.
In a statement, FENSA reminds
members not only of their new responsibility to provide IBGs without which they will not be issued
lighted to be in on this
exciting new venture
from the start.”
IG Doors, Sales and
Marketing Manager
Richard Kirman commented: “We have said
from the outset that one
of the ways in which
we will differentiate
ourselves in the market
is through our customer
service and communication style. Sharon
is perfect to help us
achieve this.”
with Building Regulations Compliance certificates, but also that they
must use one of the providers on
the organisation’s approved list, as
others may not comply with the
criteria required under the new
regulations. Installers choosing
HomePro or IPWFI IBGs will be
issued with certificates without
delay.
“We are delighted that FENSA
has cleared the air and removed
any doubts about the new regulations and where installers stand
with regard t