Building Sustainability Email Ibstock Home IBSTOCK Health & Safety Products Useful Tools Careers International Contact Blog The UK’s leading brick manufacturer Welcome to Ibstock - the UK’s biggest brickmaker. We have 20 factories nationwide and a range of over 500 different bricks and rainscreen cladding systems. Select a product: Bricks, Pavers and Special Shapes Brick Slips Elementix Rainscreen Cladding NEW BrickShield External Wall Insulation Glazed Bricks Fireborn Large Format Clay Blocks Tilebrick Tile Hanging Prefabricated Arches and Chimneys Bricktile Interior Clay Tiles Earth Bricks, Bat and Swift Boxes NEW Linear Long Thin Bricks Umbra Unique Shaped Bricks Help and support: Samples Literature Technical Information and Advice Sustainability and the Environment Brick Calculator Mortar Selector Find a Local Brick Library NEW BIM Brick Objects NEW Severely Exposed Brickwork Guide NEW CE marks & Declaration of Performance QUICK BRICK FINDER SELECT COLOUR SELECT TYPE All Handmade Machine Moulded Waterstruck Stock Waterstruck Wirecut Wirecut Extruded SELECT TEXTURE All Distressed Dragfaced Rolled Rusticated Sandcreased Sandfaced Smooth SELECT SIZE All 50mm 65mm 68mm 73mm Mailing List Please complete the following fields to join our mailing list. Please Select an Industry Architecture Builders Merchant/Distributor Housebuilder Builder Self Builder Main Contractor Specialist Sub Contractor Surveyor/Structural Engineer LA/Social Housing/Education/Govt/Health Student view previous newsletters Login Please use your personal login here to save time when ordering samples. For non-registered users click here forgot password? For more information on Part L 1A Click Here Latest News IBSTOCK SHOWCASES STUNNING USE OF GLAZED BRICK The latest edition of Ibstock's inspirational 'Design' magazine is now available, showcasing the virtually limitless choice of colours, sizes and finishes from the UK's largest brick maker's industry-leading glazed brick range. Projects as diverse as Anglian Ruskin University, Arsenal's Emirates Stadium, West Hampstead Station and Humberside Divisional Police Headquarters are just a few of the many award-winning architectural examples covered, where the use of glazed brick has helped to enhance the overall visual appeal of the structure. The wide palette of colour options and finishes available, such as gloss, frosted, and satin, is also detailed within the edition, highlighting the variety on offer. Andrew Halstead-Smith, Group Marketing Manager at Ibstock, comments: "The latest issue of ‘Design’ responds to the need to set buildings apart and achieve striking designs, by focusing on one of the most inspiring styles of brick. It brings together a number of examples of where glazed brick has made a significant contribution to the completion of a memorable building. A number of the projects have also been recognised at the BDA Brick Awards, testimony to the powerful impact of this brick style. "There is a wide variety of colour, finish and size choices available within glazed brick. We even offer glow-in-the-dark options! The use of glazed bricks can add depth and intensity of colour to a building and they're suitable for use across landscapes and all building types. "Highly skilled ceramicists carefully mix the glazes to match the brick body and create beautiful tones of colours, which makes each glazed brick so unique. Manufactured from ultra-pure clays specially selected for their high quality and unique properties, Ibstock's state-of-the-art technologies also ensure glazed bricks attain the highest possible standards of performance and finish to satisfy the most demanding of designs.” To obtain the latest issue of Design or find out more about the range of glazed bricks available, click here HELPING MERCHANTS TO BOOST BUSINESS Maximising growth opportunities in a buoyant market was the key theme discussed at the 18th Independent Builders Merchant Forum (IBMF) hosted by the UK's largest brick maker, Ibstock. The biggest gathering in the event's history saw 96 independent merchants see first-hand the latest support services and innovations from Ibstock to help support their growth. The forum, which took place at Forest of Arden Hotel in Meriden, Warwickshire covered topics including the brick market, brick availability and the advantages offered by direct to site business. The forum also saw the re-launch of the enhanced Everyday Specials range. The popular special shaped bricks are designed to accomplish great results quickly and easily. The products are frost resistant, suitable for most brickwork applications and are specifically suited for the job, so no cutting is required. Available in Smooth Blue or Smooth Red colour options, the Everyday Specials range is supported by an innovative and unique new online quotation and ordering system. The new 'Everyday Easy Order System' enables merchants to create their own personalised pricing for Everyday Specials products, helping them to easily produce quotations. They can then place an order in just a few easy steps. Orders are usually despatched within 48 hours. To help merchants showcase the benefits of Everyday Specials to their customers, a new brochure, point of sale material and promotional poster have been produced. Ibstock also outlined how it is helping to ensure continued availability of brick. While most of its brick products are available in 12 weeks or less, the brick maker also offered choices for merchants with more urgent requirements including collection options. In addition, Ibstock introduced the 7th edition of its popular Brick Selector, packed with handy 'how to guides', new project and product photography to bring the colour and textures of the bricks alive. It will help merchants communicate the message that there is a wide choice of bricks available to their customers. Tony France, Director of Builders' Merchants Sales at Ibstock, commented: "It was great to see so many merchants attend our 18th IBMF. This year's interactive forum was focused on highlighting how we can support merchants in growing their businesses. "At a time when the market is showing sustained signs of recovery, we feel it’s crucial we help merchants maximise the opportunities available to them. This could be providing the latest literature and promotional material and online ordering system for our enhanced Everyday Specials range or simply helping them get bricks when they need them. The key message is for merchants to discuss their requirements with us so we can continue to work with them as they build their operations and ensure demand is met." The business potential of direct-to-site orders was also showcased at the forum. Ibstock provided examples of how this approach can provide growth opportunities and can ensure merchants are positively linked to prestigious developments and projects. Ibstock provides a bespoke service for direct-to-site business, so merchants are encouraged to speak to their account managers to find out more and unlock this route to market. IBSTOCK DELIVERS BRICK INSPIRATION THROUGH ESSENTIAL GUIDE Ibstock Brick, the UK's largest brick maker, has launched the 7th edition of the ever popular Brick Selector, its exciting go-to guide developed to inspire ideas for stand out brick design and showcase its extensive range of products. The new Brick Selector brings Ibstock's most popular products to life through 100 pages of case studies, striking imagery and technical information, making the wide range of colour and texture options available in brick even more accessible for housebuilders and specifiers. In addition to delivering inspiration for the endless design possibilities achievable through the use of brick in any project, the essential specification tool offers advice and guidance around the most commonly asked areas such as brickmatching, as well as an illustrated guide to mortar joints and brickwork bonds. The printed guide complements Ibstock's online Brick Selector tool, where customers can order free product samples at the click of a button, and forms part of its ongoing investment in services and products to help housebuilders and specifiers realise the full potential of brick. Brick Selector sits alongside a range of specification tools designed by Ibstock to deliver inspiration for unique design in brick work, such as Design. In its 32nd year, the glossy book is designed with specifiers in mind and is Ibstock's ultimate must-have guide for those working in design or specification needing to raise the bar. The latest edition of Design focuses on Glazed bricks, delivering true inspiration through exciting case studies and imagery. Andrew Halstead-Smith, Group Marketing Manager at Ibstock Brick, comments: "The new Brick Selector not only makes brick selection easy, but delivers real design inspiration to support creativity at the early design stage. Through the guide, which has fast become the go to tool for brick specification, housebuilders and specifiers are able to make informed decisions about their building projects." As well as creating essential specification tools, Ibstock continues to work closely with its customers to allocate brick supplies - particularly for popular products, ensuring accurate forward-planning of stock levels. Most Ibstock products are available within 12 weeks. Available free of charge, Brick Selector can be ordered through the Ibstock Samples and Literature Hotline on 0844 800 4578; e-mail: enquiries@ibstock.co.uk or click here. IBSTOCK TO DRIVE GROWTH THROUGH FLEET EXPANSION Ibstock, the UK's largest brick maker, has bolstered its nationwide delivery service through investment in its vehicle fleet with the addition of 20 new trucks. As demand for new houses continues to rise, the fleet expansion will enable Ibstock to ensure the consistent and efficient delivery of its brick products for builders and merchants alike. The fleet expansion forms part of Ibstock’s wider investment plans geared towards ensuring it continues to meet market demand to enable the timely construction of new builds. Andrew Halstead-Smith, group marketing manager at Ibstock, comments: "To meet the target for building 250,000 new homes a year, it's vital that all elements of the supply chain play their part. Through the expansion of our vehicle fleet, alongside our continued investment in products and services, including improvements across our facilities to maximise brick production levels, we’re able to build on our commitment to ensure builders and merchants have access to the right products when they need them most." The brick maker also invested more than £22million in the redevelopment of its factory in Chesterton and re-commissioned one of its previously mothballed manufacturing sites in Leicester at the height of the recession. These measures, along with production enhancements across all sites, have helped ensure the company is able to meet the increased demand for brick products. AT HOME BY THE SEA Ibstock's Ivanhoe and Cooksbridge bricks help create award-winning Dublin home House features modernist design enhanced by innovative brick combination A bespoke blend of bricks from the UK's largest brick maker Ibstock have been used to deliver an impactful award-winning property on Dalkey Avenue in Dublin. Winner of Best International Project at the 2014 Brick Development Association Awards - the premier showcase for the brick industry, recognising excellence in design and construction using brick - the unique house overlooks Dublin city and also boasts an enviable sea vista. The architects specified a mix of Ivanhoe Cream and Cooksbridge Yellow bricks from Ibstock's Buff colour range, and they are used to great impact throughout the property, including elements such as brick-lined terraces. The use of a distinctive blend of shades of bricks has ensured an intricate and interesting appearance to the exterior to the building, which echoes its imposing position on a steep hill. The overall memorable architectural effect of the house is characterised by the implementation of thick masonry walls, extra wide mortar beds of 25 to 30mm, perpends and flush joints, which give the property simplicity of form to contrast with the iron-rich granite hill on which it stands. Andrew Halstead-Smith, Group Marketing Manager at Ibstock, comments: "The specification of a combination of Ivanhoe and Cooksbridge bricks for the property in Dublin is a classic example of design ambition brought to life through the use of brick. The Buff range offers varying shades and depth of colour that can help inspire great design, while providing a warm and welcoming brick envelope for homes and buildings. The project’s success at the 2014 Brick Development Association Awards is testimony to its unique characteristics and a fitting public acknowledgement for what is, quite simply, a stunning home in a striking location." Create your own special blends with the Ibstock digital blending tool at www.ibstock.com/bespokeblends COMBINING DESIGN & VOLUME Three stunning housing developments using Ibstock bricks secure prestigious award A variety of bricks from the UK's largest brick maker, Ibstock have helped bring to life striking designs across three impressive award-winning Barratt Developments. Barratt Developments was awarded the coveted Volume Housebuilding Award at the 2014 Brick Development Association (BDA) Awards - the premier showcase for the brick industry, recognising excellence in design and construction using brick. A combination of unique design and innovative use of brick has created visually impactful homes across the awarded developments. Historic Bentley Priory in Middlesex showcases a clever use of pre-cast brick arches and contrasting brick schemes to create areas of pictorial interest. Making use of both Ibstock's Red range and its Leicester Multi Cream colour schemes, Bentley Priory offers a distinctive and memorable aesthetic appeal of tone, colour, richness and warmth. The Horizons development in Allerton Bywater brings together the unique properties of Ibstock's Melton Blend range and the Ibstock-Kevington Fastwall brick slip panelling system, to produce an attractive and engaging architectural response to the needs of volume house building. Finally, Trumpington Meadows in Cambridge has combined the quality of the Leicester Multi Cream brick with Ibstock-Kevington Fastflint to help enrich the visual appeal of the development and allow it to blend sympathetically within its local area. Andrew Halstead-Smith, Group Marketing Manager at Ibstock, says: "Winning a BDA Award is a great acknowledgement of the design excellence showcased across the Barratt Developments' sites. "Individually, each project is a prime example of why brick remains the pre-eminent building material of choice to bring design to life. Together, they offer testimony to the power brick continues to have to support the creation of memorable buildings. And, most importantly, each project has created the type of home that people want to live in and we are delighted that Ibstock bricks have played a critical role in achieving this." IBSTOCK HEALTH AND SAFETY EXCELLENCE RECOGNISED AT INDUSTRY AWARDS Ibstock, the UK's largest brickmaker, has been recognised for outstanding health and safety practices at the 2014 British Ceramic Confederation (BCC) Health & Safety Pledge Conference. The awards showcase examples of exceptional health and safety achievements in today's workplace and more than 160 BCC members were represented at the awards, including many major industrial companies. Ibstock won more awards than any other member, and was recognised in four main categories: the Open category for a location or company-based safety improvement; Most Effective Employee and Best Contractor - nominated by a factory for an individual contractor or contractor company recognised for their approach to working safely on company premises - and Distinguished Service to recognise employees who have devoted many years championing health and safety in the workplace. Three team members were highlighted in the coveted Distinguished Service category. Chesterton-based health and safety advisor Steve Hopkins; Fred White, a maintenance operative based at Leicester; and Ibstock’s Director of Health and Safety, Mario Lombardo, were successfully nominated for their dedicated efforts to safeguard employees. Mario Lombardo has been in the ceramics industry for 42 years and leads both Ibstock's and its parent group, CRH's, strategic approach to health and safety. In addition to Steve, Fred and Mario, 13 other Ibstock employees across the company’s UK manufacturing sites received successful nominations in the Most Effective Employee category. The Open category saw BCC awards for Ibstock's Elliston site, acknowledging work around near miss reporting, while the Kevington site’s brick saw training programme was also recognised. Andrew Halstead-Smith, Group Marketing Manager at Ibstock commented: "Ibstock's outstanding success at the British Ceramic Confederation Health & Safety Awards is testimony to the importance we place on ensuring our busy manufacturing sites are safe and secure places to work. We continually emphasise the importance of a safe working environment and always seek improvements. I am delighted that the efforts of our staff have been publically recognised in this way. I would also offer particular congratulations to Mario, Steve and Fred for their awards – they truly have delivered outstanding service in this area over many years." 'BORIS BRICK' AUCTIONED FOR CONSTRUCTION CHARITY Ibstock's prized 'Boris brick', that was made and signed by the Mayor of London onsite at the UK's largest brick maker's flagship Chesterton factory last month, has been auctioned to raise money for a youth charity. The brick raised £600 for the Construction Youth Trust when it was auctioned during this year's Brick Development Association (BDA) Awards celebration. It made six times its reserve price for the charity, which helps young people develop careers in the construction industry. As part of his recent visit to the Chesterton factory, Boris Johnson saw first-hand how more than £22million of investment has enabled the site to become the most energy efficient factory of its type in the world. He also took a hands-on approach to learn more about the UK’s building material of choice and its journey from kiln to house, whilst hearing about how Ibstock is meeting the increased demand for brick following the return of growth to the construction industry. The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, commented: "The Construction Youth Trust is a very worthy cause, working to enable young people to realise successful careers in a booming industry. I'm so pleased that so much money was raised." Andrew Halstead-Smith, group marketing manager at Ibstock, adds: "We’re delighted with the success of the auction, and that our very own 'Boris brick' has raised money for this great charity. We were delighted to welcome Boris Johnson to our Chesterton site, so it’s great we’ve been able to put his handiwork to a good cause and we look forward to continuing our support of the Construction Youth Trust." The auction wasn’t the only highlight for Ibstock during this year's BDA Awards. The brick maker built on its previous years of success with wins for eight projects which incorporated Ibstock bricks and three projects receiving a special commendation. IBSTOCK LEADS INDUSTRY AT 2014 BRICK AWARDS Ibstock, the UK's largest brickmaker, is celebrating success at the prestigious 2014 Brick Development Association's (BDA) Brick Awards. Eight projects which incorporate Ibstock bricks won awards and one project received a special commendation. This success follows a bumper 2014 shortlist which featured 46 construction projects using Ibstock bricks - a total accounting for more than half of all those shortlisted. Recognising excellence in design and construction using brick and in their 37th year, the awards are the premier showcase for the brick industry and one of the longest running design awards in the UK. The winning projects represent the true diversity and design appeal offered by brick as a construction material and showcase how Ibstock products are helping to build the face of Britain. Housebuilding projects which used Ibstock bricks triumphed in several categories. For Best Housing Development (1-5 units), a house in Wapping which had been vacant for three years and had been transformed came out on top. The judges noted how it demonstrated brick's potential as a material for residential construction and how it is a well-executed and well-built family home - 'an absolutely stunning building of real architectural quality'. The Quay, Waterside in London won Best Housing Development (6 - 25 units) and Best Housing Development (26 & more units) was won by Abode at Great Kneighton. The judges recognised it as an exemplary development, which used the landscape well, with a well thought-out layout which fits superbly into its surroundings. Best Volume Housebuilding was won by Barratt Developments for its Bentley Priory, Horizons and Trumpington Meadows sites, which all use Ibstock bricks. Wins were also secured on projects benefitting from Ibstock bricks in the Best Craftmanship award category for Eton College, Best Outdoor Space for Reading Station and Best International for Dalkey Avenue in Dublin - a unique house which overlooks the city and the sea. Specialist Brickwork Contractor of the Year was won by Lee Marley Brickwork for its work on Eton College, Reading Station and Bromley Road - all of which used Ibstock bricks to create outstanding designs. Kings Road Arches in Brighton completed the award success for projects using Ibstock bricks, receiving a special commendation in the Best Refurbishment and Renovation category. Andrew Halstead-Smith, group marketing manager at Ibstock, says: "Firstly, we want to thank the architects, specifiers and contractors who continue to use our bricks on such inspiring builds. Over the past decade, Ibstock bricks have been used in 66 award-winning projects – more than any other brickmaker, so it is great to see so many projects recognised once again. The winning projects are of the highest calibre and demonstrate how brick can really deliver some exceptionally unique and high-quality buildings. "The importance of brick as a construction material was reflected by the Mayor of London, Boris Johnson recently during his speech at the Conservative Party Conference, following his visit to our Chesterton factory. These award-winning projects are another example of how brick continues to build the face of Britain. We're looking forward to Ibstock bricks featuring in more inspirational builds in 2015." NEW ADDITIONS FOR TILEBRICK RANGE AS POPULARITY SOARS Building on the success of its Tilebrick range, Ibstock has recently launched a selection of new designs, offering greater choice and increased sales opportunities for merchants looking to meet the needs of their customers. Tilebrick is Ibstock's innovative tile-shaped front face brick which replicates a tile-hung wall elevation. Three profiles are now available in Planar, Banded and Curved shapes. The Planar gives a crisp and defined finish, the Banded adds a strong linear definition to the facade, while the traditional Curved finish provides the softer appeal of real tile hanging. The range currently comes in 10 colour options including black and buff. They are supported by a range of accessories to satisfy any design requirement. Tilebrick's popularity among architects and specifiers is due to it providing a visually attractive, clever construction solution. It also offers the unique characteristic of providing a monolithic appearance without the visual disruption of mortar joints, but with the ability to be traditionally laid using standard mortars. Andrew Halstead-Smith, Group Marketing Manager at Ibstock, commented: "Tilebrick is proving to be an immensely popular range, so we’ve added further design options to provide greater choice and to maximise opportunities for merchants." Tilebrick in Action Tilebrick is helping to provide design solutions that give a new dimension to facades which enhance the design elements of a building whilst retaining the benefits of structural masonry. An example of its design capabilities is its recent specification on a family home in Brockwell Park in Brixton, which has undergone a radical renovation. The home in question, which featured in Grand Designs, was in a bad state of repair and required major renovation work to transform it in to a light and accessible modern family home. The solution was to pare back the infrastructure of the house and 're-dress' it in a simpler architecture that would sit sympathetically within its park location. The architects also wanted to increase the size of the house and break this down into three smaller scale interlocking volumes. This comprised of one volume constructed in wood to echo the park's trees, one in clean rendered glass to bring the garden into the main family spaces and one in blue-grey brick to match the Brixtonian urban context. Ibstock's Tilebrick was selected as the answer for the final element. With no visible mortar joints, different proportions and a specially engineered tile-lip, a modern, clean, and slightly abstracted surface was created. As a clay product, it supported the desire for a natural variation and, crucially, has allowed the building to sit well in its location. The outer skin on the Tilebrick has also helped dramatically improve the heating and cooling performance of the home. It has added an extra thermal barrier to significantly increase the thermal mass of the heated structure, resulting in a warm home in winter and a cool living environment in summer. Overall, the Tilebricks help to anchor the house, bringing with it a sense of weight that sits as an ideal counterpoint to the lightweight hardwood slat work and glass elements that combine to make the renovation such a visually attractive family home. IBSTOCK SHOWCASES DESIGN POTENTIAL OF BRICK New exclusive edition of Portfolio launched by Ibstock showcases stunning brick builds and solutions Architects and specifiers to benefit from enhanced design services Ibstock, the UK's largest brick maker, has launched the latest edition of its exclusive Portfolio guide to coincide with the expansion of its wide-ranging design services available to support architects and specifiers. Featuring its extensive range of stunning, high performing bricks, Ibstock's Portfolio is the perfect showcase for the company’s diverse brick solutions which are helping architects and specifiers to transform the nation's buildings and communities. More than 200 full colour pages detail the company’s brick ranges, supported by striking case studies of Ibstock bricks in action, Portfolio is a comprehensive and essential information portal for architects and specifiers. The guide is also supported by interactive features accessible by smartphone or tablet, which help to bring the stories of brick to life in greater detail, showing why brick continues to be the construction material of choice. The publication of Portfolio is one element of Ibstock’s focus on delivering enhanced design services for the specification market. Specifiers who receive Portfolio will have free access to its 36,000 strong ImageBank library - a highly useful resource tool that can aid and enhance design presentations to clients. In addition, specifiers can now also take advantage of a wide-ranging sample ordering service which is easy to access and guarantees samples are issued quickly to assist with the design process. Andrew Halstead-Smith, Group Marketing Manager at Ibstock, comments: "Ibstock has a long standing reputation of supporting the specification market by providing a comprehensive collection of essential information sources. Led by the visually impactful Portfolio - which is exclusive to architects and specifiers and showcases the range and diversity of our brick solutions - we have also enhanced our design services to assist in the delivery of quality-driven, sustainable and striking brick designs. "A reliable and quick brick sample service and access to our extensive ImageBank resource are just two of the practical ways we aim to work alongside the specification industry and help it turn design ambitions into an exciting reality." The Portfolio also features Ibstock Explore – an exciting new app for iPad and iPhone which enables the reader of the Portfolio to access additional content such as videos on how bricks are made, photo galleries of extra projects and detailed case studies featuring the stories behind some of the featured projects. "BUILDING THE FACE OF BRITAIN" Ibstock's new Portfolio, Building the face of Britain, is now available…. New A4 Landscape format - easier to use with improved presentation of product and project photography. IBSTOCK EXPLORE - a new app for iPhones and iPads giving you even more information about Ibstock, our products and projects in which they are used. A BIGGER brochure - contains photography of all our complete promoted product ranges with more project photography than ever before. Product Textures (NEW) - Close-up texture photographs giving you a better impression of what the products look like. More extensive Product Ranges - including Forticrete additions to the Elementix & Linear ranges. More Project Photography - over 100 new project photographs with new opening spreads to all the brick colour range and innovative product sections. A newly formatted Ibstock Kevington special shapes section - with new graphics illustrating how all shapes are utilised in work. If you are an architect looking to choose from the industry's most extensive range of quality bricks and associated clay products, click here to order your copy. INVESTMENT BRINGS ADDITIONAL BRICKS ONTO UK CONSTRUCTION MARKET Almost an additional 200 million bricks are set to hit the UK construction market this year, thanks to ongoing investment by the UK's largest brick manufacturer, Ibstock. In preparation for the return to growth expected in the UK's construction industry, the brick maker invested more than £22million in the redevelopment of its factory in Chesterton and re-commissioned one of its previously mothballed manufacturing sites in Leicester at the height of the recession. And, as a result, these timely measures have helped ensure the company is coping with the increased demand for bricks, which is now being experienced. Ibstock increased its capacity by an additional 125 million bricks, equivalent to 15,000 extra homes, as a result of the Chesterton redevelopment and production resuming in Leicester. When combined with production enhancements at its other factories, the company is set to bring to the market almost an additional 200 million bricks in 2014. Andrew Halstead-Smith, Group Marketing Manager at Ibstock, commented: "We foresaw the welcome return to growth now being experienced in the UK construction industry. It was for this reason that we decided to make a significant investment in the redevelopment of our Chesterton facility, making it one of the most energy efficient factories of its type in the world, and decided to start up production again at one of our mothballed sites, in the midst of the recession. We also ensured we retained our skilled workforce and supported them through these challenging times, so we were able to keep pace with the changing demands of the market." As well as securing production levels to help meet the increased demand for bricks, Ibstock has also been working in partnership with its customers to help them plan ahead and accurately forecast the number of bricks they will need for the future - based on sales records and identifying the most popular ranges. Andrew Halstead-Smith, continues: "To help meet demand, in addition to maximising production levels across our 21 factories and distribution centres, we’ve also worked closely with our customers to help them plan ahead to accurately predict brick stock levels required. We also identified our most popular products and worked to allocate these fairly across the market. By working together and planning ahead, building - whether for homes, extensions, schools or hospitals - can continue to be at the heart of the economic recovery and provide sustained growth now, and in the future." IBSTOCK DOMINATES SHORTLISTED ENTRIES FOR 2014 BRICK AWARDS 46 shortlisted submissions make Ibstock first choice for award winning projects Nominations include stunning use of brick at the Kia Oval and Eton College and London’s Mint St development Ibstock, the UK's largest brickmaker, has once again demonstrated its industry-leading credentials accounting for more than half of the shortlisted entries at the 2014 Brick Development Association's (BDA) prestigious Brick Awards. The awards recognise excellence in design and construction using brick. 46 out of a total of 82 shortlisted entries are Ibstock projects - which highlights the striking aesthetic appeal, versatility and proven performance of its extensive range. This represents an increase of more than 20% for the number of Ibstock entries shortlisted when compared to 2013. The company is represented in the majority of categories, with 13 of the 16 featuring Ibstock projects. Ibstock's successful shortlisted projects include both large and small scale housing developments, public and commercial buildings and refurbishment projects. They contain a number of outstanding and unusual brick-based schemes, including the world famous cricket ground, the Kia Oval, Eton College, the Richmond Building Student Union and London’s Mint St development. Ibstock's list of nominations demonstrates its bricks continue to be the preferred choice for architects and specifiers when it comes to designing award-winning buildings. Andrew Halstead-Smith, group marketing manager at Ibstock, says: "We are once again delighted that so many of our projects have been shortlisted for this year’s BDA Brick Awards. The awards are a fantastic showcase for what can be achieved with brick, and demonstrate why it continues to be the construction product of choice for architects and specifiers. The diversity of projects selected by the judges demonstrates the wide ranging and innovative brick-based solutions Ibstock’s products are delivering both nationally and internationally. We are looking forward to the final results and are hopeful of further celebrations." The 2014 award ceremony will be held in London on 12th November. IBSTOCK BRICKSHIELD RISES TO THE CHALLENGE IN TOWER BLOCK REFURBISHMENTS Ibstock provides technical support and innovative products for the refurbishment of 1960s residential blocks Project required quick and easy installation of high performing external wall insulation to improve the buildings' thermal credentials Ibstock BrickShield chosen for its high impact resistance and class 1 fire resistance credentials Innovative system offers unique reassurance of being the first external wall insulation to carry BBA accreditation Ibstock's innovative external wall insulation system, BrickShield, along with its technical expertise, has been used to transform three tower blocks in Chester, greatly improving the heat retention and aesthetics of the 1960s buildings. Based in Chester's Blacon District, the tower blocks have undergone major refurbishment works as part of a regeneration project in the area. To minimise disruption to its tenants, whilst ensuring the installation of a high-performing external wall insulation to improve the buildings' thermal credentials, as well as its appearance, Chester and District Housing Association specified Ibstock's BrickShield solution. With funding from British Gas, as well as technical and design support from Ibstock throughout the refurbishment project, the housing association fitted the BrickShield solution to the bottom two storeys of each building to help meet target U-values, a measure of heat loss in buildings. As a result of the upgrade to the original concrete walls using BrickShield, the buildings' U-values have greatly improved from 2.4 to 0.35W/m2K, providing daily benefits and energy cost savings for residents. Brick was used on the lower levels because of its superior high impact resistance to render systems. What’s more, the durability and real brick finish of the system has greatly improved the buildings' aesthetics, bringing them in line with the surrounding residential vernacular. The collaborative approach to the refurbishment work enabled Ibstock to provide in-depth technical insight throughout the project, which included delivering 'toolbox talks' to the installers involved, emphasising the principles of bricklaying and the techniques associated with brick cladding. Andrew Halstead-Smith, Group Marketing Manager at Ibstock, comments: "The 1960s tower block is a prominent feature in the UK’s housing history, with work increasingly being done to improve and preserve them. Due to the scale of work usually involved in refurbishments of this kind, we recognise the importance of providing cost effective and easy to install, yet quality solutions. This is something we've been able to provide in this instance through BrickShield. We’re delighted to have supported Chester and District Housing Association on their successful, energy saving renovation project." BrickShield was the first external wall insulation system to achieve BBA approval and has a history of many successfully completed projects across the UK. It is manufactured by Ibstock Brick in partnership with Rockwool, leaders in stone wool insulation. Visit www.brickshield.com for more information. Ibstock to share expertise with merchants at industry forum Ibstock, the UK's largest brick manufacturer, will be sharing the latest innovations in brick and unique services for merchants as it hosts its 17th annual Independent Builders Merchant Forum (IBMF) next week. Around 80 independent merchants are expected to attend the renowned forum on the 4th June at the Forest of Arden Hotel in Solihull, West Midlands, to discover the latest in brick styles, trends and developments. Ibstock will be demonstrating its innovative range of products and services, as well as providing an opportunity for merchants to share best practise and discuss the latest market trends. Merchants will have access to senior team members from Ibstock, who will be delivering unique insights into the industry. Delegates will also be able to find out more about Ibstock's growing digital platforms, including its unique app and new website, and how merchants can benefit from the bespoke range of services it offers. Tony France, Director of Builders' Merchants Sales at Ibstock, comments: "This is the 17th IBMF we’ve hosted and the popular event provides the perfect platform for us to better understand the needs of the UK’s independent builders merchants, while raising awareness of the sales support and technical expertise we offer to help drive growth in their businesses. It’s also an ideal time for merchants across the nation to come together to share their own industry experiences and plans for the future. We look forward to welcoming new and existing customers to the event." PREFAB BUNGALOWS GIVEN NEW LEASE OF LIFE AS IBSTOCK’S BRICKSHIELD CLADDING SYSTEM HELPS SECURE THEIR FUTURE Improved insulation performance and new attractive brick appearance enhances refurbishment project Plus Dane Housing Association and Cheshire West and Chester Council faced a challenge when it came to assessing the staged refurbishment of 104 prefabricated Hawksley-type metal-clad bungalows built in the 1940s. Badly in need of upgrading to secure future use of the properties, a critical element of the solution was the specification of Ibstock’s Brickshield, an innovative and flexible external cladding system, which provided a cost effective, permanent, sustainable and architecturally sympathetic answer to some of the challenges the refurbishment project team faced. With an original expected lifespan of just 10 years, the bungalows in Ellesmere Port are still in use over 60 years later, providing essential housing for elderly and vulnerable residents. With a number of refurbishments over the intervening years, Plus Dane wanted a more permanent and sustainable renovation solution to improve the energy efficiency of the metal-clad external structures, as well as provide an external brick finish to ensure the dwellings match the predominantly brick-built architecture of the surrounding locality. Another important aspect of the refurbishment was the need to minimise disruption to the residents during the project, so the chosen solution had to be quick and easy to install. Ibstock's Brickshield system met all these objectives. As an external cladding system combining high durability insulation boards with Ibstock Natural Clay Brick Slips, it delivered a superb brick finish to the exterior walls, whilst also adding all-important thermal insulation. The refurbishment was undertaken in stages and followed an initial pilot scheme covering 16 dwellings. After the pilot work was well received, Plus Dane Housing Association extended the project to additional properties and worked alongside residents to include their views on preferred colour and finish options for their bungalow. Choices were made from the extensive Brickshield range including Ravenhead Red Rustic, Ravenhead Red Smooth, Trafford Multi Rustic and Smooth Village Mixture brick finishes. The mixture of tones and finishes has provided an updated, interesting and stimulating visual impact for the area. Cost saving and quick While the residents are now benefitting from an improved living environment within a better insulated, more attractive property fit for use well into the future, so Brickshield has also helped Plus Dane achieve value for money. The first phase of 41 bungalows was completed in just four months - a timescale not possible using other systems - with another 40 properties ear-marked for the second refurbishment phase. Overall project cost savings as a result of using Brickshield enabled the housing association to complete the transformation of an additional seven properties within the original set budget. Andrew Halstead-Smith, Group Marketing Manager for Ibstock, comments: "Brickshield has made a significant contribution to the ongoing and successful refurbishment of the Hawksley bungalows at Ellesmere Port. They are now far more visually attractive and in keeping with the surrounding area, and are much more energy efficient thanks to Brickshield's innovative design. "Installation was quick and, as an entirely externally-based system, did not disrupt the lives of the residents while work was undertaken. This was an important factor for Plus Dane and the local population. We are also delighted that due to its cost effectiveness, the client was able to really maximise the available refurbishment expenditure." Brickshield is the only BBA approved system of its kind. It is manufactured by Ibstock Brick in partnership with Rockwool, leaders in stone wool insulation. Visit www.brickshield.com for more information. Ibstock instrumental in brick's industry leading sustainability accreditation Ibstock Brick, the UK's largest brickmaker, has played an instrumental role in brick becoming the first construction industry product to gain verification under BRE Global's Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) scheme - a standardised way of quantifying the environmental impact of a product or system. Working in collaboration with the Brick Development Association (BDA) by providing vital factory data and through its membership of the BDA sustainability working group, Ibstock helped the brickmaking industry achieve this significant accreditation and therefore, demonstrate how brick is leading the way as the sustainable construction material of choice. Andrew Halstead-Smith, group marketing manager at Ibstock Brick, comments: "We're proud to see brick, the original sustainable building material, become the first construction product to be verified under the EPD scheme. It ensures true transparency for specifiers and end users, giving them an easy-to-quantify measure to use in the calculation of a building’s environmental impact - a vital part of the specification process that will only continue to grow in importance in the coming years. "Brick scores well on all of the different environmental impacts considered under the EPD, as it is a natural product that has very little added to its mixture. It therefore has low toxicity, unlike many other materials which need to use preservatives, and lacks VOCs (volatile organic compounds) used in the formulation of plastic and synthetic materials. "This recognition for brick confirms its green credentials and is evidence of its continued relevance as a superior building material now and for the future." This accreditation comes as Ibstock celebrates its own sustainability industry-first, with the award of internationally recognised standard ISO 50001 for its 'Centre of Excellence' factory in Birtley, County Durham. The company was the first in the UK brick industry to achieve ISO 14001 for its Environment Management System and worked with specialists to build on this and meet the requirements for ISO 50001. Ibstock was also the first brickmaker to achieve a very good rating for all of its brickworks under BES 6001, the standard for responsible sourcing. More information on the EN 15804 EPD verification scheme can be found at www.greenbooklive.com. IBSTOCK’S INNOVATIVE BRICKSHIELD SYSTEM PAVES THE WAY TO SYMPATHETIC AND SUSTAINABLE RESTORATION Historic workers cottages' architectural character safeguarded as external fabric insulation and thermal properties are upgraded Cost effective and quick renovation solution delivers benefit for vulnerable residents and local authority A set of 42 historic workers' cottages have been given a new lease of life, thanks to a recent restoration project that has sympathetically preserved their original architectural tradition, as well as ensuring a sustainable future taking into account the advantages of modern building technology. Central to the success of the restoration has been the specification of Ibstock's Brickshield system, a unique external wall insulation solution allowing buildings to retain brick cladding whilst adding external wall insulation. It has helped reinvigorate and preserve the original exterior look of the cottages, and provide tangible thermal insulation benefits to the interior. The 42 workers' dwellings, called Dee Cottages, are in Flint, Flintshire. They were originally constructed just after the First World War as part of textile giant Courtaulds' decision to locate a major rayon manufacturing facility in the town. A markedly uniform development of two-bedroom terrace cottages, they were eventually taken under the control of Flintshire County Council and are today used to provide safe and secure supported housing for elderly and vulnerable tenants who wish to live independently. The industrial heritage associated with Flint was seen in the use of exposed brickwork on the exterior walls of the cottages at the time of construction, testimony to the important role local brickworks played as such housing sprang up around the UK’s industrial heartlands. It was this brick-led heritage that Flintshire County Council wanted to preserve when it came to modernising the cottage development, whilst ensuring they were sustainably and safely renovated to continue to meet the future needs of the residents. Safeguarding distinctive character In conjunction with Ibstock, Flintshire County Council selected Brickshield as the perfect answer to fulfil this objective; one that would ensure the integrity of the vernacular and safeguard its distinctive character, while also generating superior levels of insulation performance. The Brickshield external cladding solution at the Dee Cottages site combines insulation boards and Ibstock's Natural Clay Brick Slips to provide an easy-to-install system that not only protects the original brick design, but also insulates and thermally upgrades the external fabric of the dwelling. The choice of Priory Weathered Red Slips in an English Wall bond with a dark mortar is contextually complementary to the area, while the resulting improved insulation is delivering real daily benefits for residents, as well as energy cost savings for the local authority. Andrew Halstead-Smith, Group Marketing Manager at Ibstock, comments: "Dee Cottages is a prime example of the kind of housing development that grew out of industrial expansion. They evidence our industrial past and it is important we preserve the original architectural integrity within their locations. By using the flexible and innovative benefits that characterise Brickshield, we have been able to contribute to preserving the historical importance of such developments, while also ensuring the buildings have both durable and optimised insulation performance in the years ahead. "Crucially, Brickshield is quick and easy to install, which was another key factor on this project as the contractors were able to minimise any disruption to the cottage residents. We are delighted to have supported what has been a highly successful and important renovation project." Brickshield is the only BBA approved system of its kind. It is manufactured by Ibstock Brick in partnership with Rockwool, leaders in stone wool insulation. ISO 50001 accreditation bolsters Ibstock’s position as UK brick industry sustainable pioneer Ibstock Brick, the UK’s largest brickmaker, is the first company in brickmaking to have been awarded the internationally recognised standard ISO 50001, for energy management. This strengthens its position as a leader in the industry for all aspects of sustainable manufacturing. The ISO 50001 accreditation recognises continual improvement in energy performance, use and efficiency through the development of energy management systems and represents a further step change from ISO 14001 which looks at energy management in its broadest sense. It has been awarded to Ibstock for its innovative 'Centre of Excellence' factory in Birtley, County Durham and represents the next stage in the company's ambitious sustainability strategy and energy management policy, which began 12 years ago at the site. The accreditation recognises the brickmaker's commitment to best practice energy management and the development of a framework for continued improvement. Plans have now been put in place to achieve the accreditation at Ibstock's 18 other factories across the UK before the end of 2014. Securing ISO 50001 helps Ibstock meet UK Climate Change Agreements (CCA) and the European Emissions Trading Scheme (EU ETS). This means the brickmaker is reducing its carbon footprint and, in turn, helping its customers cut the environmental impact of their supply chain. An additional benefit to customers is that the changes made to Ibstock’s 'Centre of Excellence' factory allow savings that can now be invested straight back into the factory, further improving productivity and efficiency. Andrew Halstead-Smith, group marketing manager at Ibstock, says: "By constantly improving our ‘Centre of Excellence’ factory we are again proving to our customers our commitment to a sustainable future as we roll out the insights developed at Birtley across our national factory network. Achieving ISO 50001 puts the spotlight on the efficiency of our factory and shows we are dedicated to making sure our products and processes are defining the future of the industry. "Years of experience across the business have helped us achieve this influential standard, which is not just another accolade, but directly benefits our customers who can be certain that choosing Ibstock helps reduce the carbon footprint in their supply chain." Ibstock was already the first in the UK brick industry to achieve ISO 14001 for its Environment Management System, and worked with specialists to build on this and meet the requirements for ISO 50001. Andrew continues: "We have always taken a different approach from most in the industry. Our 'Centre of Excellence' was set up over a decade ago to ensure we keep making the high quality products our customers trust and award-winning innovative advancements that our customers desire. This latest accreditation shows our approach is working, but we will always keep looking for ways to improve all aspects of the business and stay ahead in the industry." Ibstock Brick helps specifiers meet range of challenges at Ecobuild 2014 Ibstock Brick, the UK's largest brickmaker, will be exhibiting a selection of its most innovative products at Ecobuild 2014, helping specifiers to meet both technical and aesthetic challenges while making the most of a renewed confidence in the construction industry through the use of real brick. On stand N1120 Ibstock will be displaying the diversity, breadth and sustainability properties of its brick range, with its own expert design advisors on hand to handle queries and to showcase its leading service offer. Taking centre stage will be Ibstock's relaunched and expanded Linear long thin brick range, Ibstock-Kevington's innovative underslung brick-faced soffits solution and the ground-breaking BrickShield external wall insulation system. Distinct design Ibstock's Linear brick range has been created to provide specifiers with the flexibility to craft ever-more distinctive exteriors. It consists of a selection of longer, thinner bricks that give a dramatic elongated effect to accentuate the linearity of a façade. The range encompasses lengths from 240mm up to 490mm, in over 100 finishes, colours and textures, giving the opportunity to juxtapose the use of a traditional building material with a unique contemporary design style. Underslung soffits Deep reveals and soffits are an increasingly popular design feature that add extra depth and dimension to masonry façades. Ibstock-Kevington's unique expertise in the design and manufacture of masonry arches has allowed them to develop underslung brick-faced soffits - an effective solution to realise this popular design feature. This solution is ideal for unusually-shaped and long openings, or where there is restricted access or little or no bearing surfaces available. Furthermore, when combined with Ibstock-Kevington's Fastwall real brick cladding panel system, it can create extra deep brick clad soffits. Insulation through real brick cladding An innovative external wall insulation system - the only to have received British Board of Agrément approval – BrickShield can quickly and easily be installed to help insulate and thermally upgrade the external fabric of a dwelling. It is particularly suited to older buildings that have solid external walls, such as brick-clad Victorian and Edwardian properties, as it upgrades the property while allowing a real brick finish to be retained. Ibstock has also reported an increase in its use on new build properties, for a quick and simple way to ensure optimum energy efficiency whilst achieving the ever-popular aesthetic of real brick. BrickShield now also offers a range of traditional features to complement brick cladding. This 'Traditions' range helps preserve the overall external heritage appearance of an area or building, and allows the home owner to retain older features such as stone quoins, heads and cills and brick arches. Jo Lightfoot, senior market manager at Ibstock, said: "With the construction industry seeing a renewed confidence from an uplift in activity, choosing the most popular cladding material - brick - for new projects opens up a vast number of options for the aesthetic and design properties of a building. What's more, Ibstock foresaw this rise in construction activity and implemented measures to increase brickmaking capacity by over 125 million bricks per year, so is well-placed to meet the rise in demand across the market. "Ecobuild provides a great opportunity for us to bring some of the most innovative products from our range to those that can benefit from them most - the specifiers. We want to highlight the fact that brick is the original sustainable material, and a fantastic solution, whatever the aim of a project’s design." Structural Masonry Day Register today for your place. Places are strictly limited for this highly informative day so don't delay! The Brick Development Association (BDA) which represents the UK Brick Industry has brought together industry leading structural engineers, chairman of BSI committees and most innovative manufacturers of clay structural solutions. The day will cover the latest information on masonry prefabrications, advice on movement in masonry and case studies on innovative structural solutions. Other topics include thin joint masonry, alternative ceramic cladding materials and detailing for severely exposed brickwork. Highly recommended for structural engineers. The seminar will also feature practical demonstrations including Ibstock's unique BBA approved BrickShield external wall insulation system. Download Flyer Ibstock Donates Bricks to Local Community Project Locals are set to create a new communal garden area, after winning a competition run by Ibstock Brick to celebrate the redevelopment of its Chesterton factory. The UK’'s largest brickmaker ran a competition to find a local cause in need of building materials and was impressed with social housing development Trinity Court in Chesterton, which will use the brick donation to help turn a run-down public shortcut into a communal garden area for tenants. The residents, whose entry was submitted via the Chesterton Community Forum, are transforming an old drying area between two blocks into a garden that can be enjoyed by all who live there. With the help of landlords Aspire Housing, the project began with the installation of gates and railings, with plans for seating also in progress. The tenants wanted to brighten the area with the addition of raised flower beds, where the Ibstock brick donation will be used, with plans for the beds to also become an educational resource for the development's younger residents. Ibstock managing director Wayne Sheppard commented: "The winner was chosen because the donation of bricks will make a significant improvement to the lives of the residents of Trinity Court, both young and old. And, with the project only around the corner from the Chesterton factory, it could not be better placed for us to give back to the local community. The town has supported us throughout the redevelopment of our factory, so it is great to be able to give something back." Paul Farrelly, MP for Newcastle-under-Lyme, presented representatives from Chesterton Community Forum and Aspire Housing with their brick donation at the Ibstock Chesterton factory. He commented: "With positive news for the UK’s manufacturing industry unveiled earlier this week, the residents of Chesterton should be proud of the world-leading factory they have on their doorstep. It's been great to see the heartland of ceramics production leading the way in manufacturing again, and we look forward to it going from strength-to-strength in the upturn in UK housebuilding." Lillian Barker MBE from Chesterton Community Forum accepted the brick donation on behalf of the residents of Trinity Court. She said: "It's brilliant news that our project has been chosen. The donation of bricks to help build planters means we can complete our garden and provide a focal point for tenants of all ages to come together and re-establish a proper community." The state-of-the-art Ibstock Chesterton factory opened earlier this year. It features the latest kiln and brick-making technology which is the most energy-efficient of its type in the world. The £20m investment from Ibstock Brick represents the largest in the region's ceramic industry for many years. Ibstock Triumphs at 2013 Brick Awards Ibstock, the UK's largest brick maker, scooped a host of accolades at this year's prestigious Brick Development Association (BDA) Brick Awards, which promote excellence in the use and design of brick - the most popular cladding material in the UK. With seven outright award wins and a further three special commendations, the awards showcase Ibstock at its best, building on the company’s excellent 10 year track record in winning these awards and demonstrating how the business is driving the brick industry forward through design, innovation, quality and range. Over the past decade Ibstock bricks have been used in more than 70 of the award-winning categories and six of the supreme winners. This year's winning projects vividly highlighted the aesthetic appeal, versatility and performance characteristics of Ibstock's extensive product range across a range of applications and markets. Leading the way with Best International Project for Phoenix Care Centre in Dublin, the project's use of planning and design skills were praised by the judges. Ibstock also took the limelight in the RMI category, winning the Best Refurbishment & Renovation award for Alwyne Place in London, a residential extension project. For this project the panel noted the effective yet minimal impression achieved using Ibstock's Staffordshire slate blue bricks on the 'beautifully detailed' extension that worked to enhance the original building. Ibstock also swept the board in the competitive housebuilding categories, winning Best Volume Housebuilder for its work with Barratt Developments as well as three Best Housing Development awards for 1-5 units (Long Farm, Suffolk), 6-25 units (Hargood Close, Essex) and 26+ units (Royal Road, London). The judges drew attention to clever and creative use of brick detailing and the warmth and depth of colours across these projects, reinforcing the fact that Ibstock has the widest range of bricks available on the market that are suitable for use across developments of all sizes. Andrew Halstead-Smith, group marketing manager at Ibstock, comments: "It is clear to see that Ibstock continues to lead the way in the brick industry, and we’d like to thank the designers and contractors who have championed brick as their material of choice. We are delighted with the range of awards we’ve won this year, demonstrating just how versatile our range is across a variety of high-quality projects in different sectors - from housebuilding, through RMI, education and healthcare, to name but a few!" "Competition is strong each year, so special recognition by the judges in this, our 10th consecutive winning year, is testament to the hard work and commitment from the whole team at Ibstock, who strive to provide striking brick-based solutions for architects, merchants and end users. We already have some strong contenders for next year’s awards and hope to maintain our success at the 2014." The award-winning Ibstock projects included: • Best International Project - Phoenix Care Centre, Dublin • Best Refurbishment and Renovation project - Alwyne Place, London • Best Housing Development - 1 to 5 units - Long Farm, Suffolk • Best Housing Development - 6 to 25 units - Hargood Close, Essex • Best Housing Development - 26+ units - Royal Road, London • Volume Housebuilder Award - Barratt Developments • Specialist Brickwork Contractor of the Year - Reussir Ltd The BDA Brick Awards are the premier showcase for the brick industry and Ibstock's 2013 performance was recognised at the national awards ceremony which took place at the Marriott Grosvenor Square Hotel in London on 14 November. Ibstock Site Visit Shines Light On Housebuilding's Return To Form Ibstock Brick, the UK's largest brick manufacturer, hosted a visit from Housing Minister Kris Hopkins MP at its redeveloped Chesterton factory on 28 November. Following the release of figures from the Department for Communities and Local Government showing that the last three months have seen the fastest rate of housebuilding since 2008, the Minister was given a tour of the world-leading production site, which has benefitted from more than £20m of investment. This has enabled it to respond well to the current rise in brick demand. The redevelopment of the Chesterton site ensures it benefits from the latest manufacturing technology for high quality and sustainable production. It has secured 80 factory-related jobs and guarantees opportunities for the local community for the next 25 years - playing a vital role in Chesterton and the surrounding region. Kris Hopkins MP, commented: "I am gobsmacked at the scale of production. I think the community of Staffordshire can be proud they have got such a high-tech facility on their doorstep. It's been great to see Ibstock's state-of-the-art factory and meet with workers who are ramping up production and, for the first time in years, keeping the factory running over the Christmas period to help get Britain building again." Colin Richardson, Director of Manufacturing Development at Ibstock Brick, commented on the visit: "It was a privilege to welcome the Housing Minister to our site. We're really proud of our factory in Chesterton so it was a good opportunity to showcase what has been achieved with our investment in Ibstock's future. It is the most energy efficient and environmentally friendly factory of its type in the world today and has the capacity to produce 80 million bricks per year, so we’re well placed to respond to the return to growth of the construction industry." Ibstock's investment in Chesterton and re-commissioning of one of its Leicester factories earlier in 2013 means it has capacity to bring an additional 120m bricks per year to the market from this year. Ibstock Launch Android Version of App Following the successful launch of the new Brick Library App for iPhone and iPad Ibstock Brick, the UK’s largest brickmaker, has unveiled an Android version of the app to further meet customer requirements. The free Ibstock Brick app for Android contains a revolutionary brick matching facility that allows customers to filter the selection by colour, texture, size and type. This makes it easy for customers to find just the right brick for any project through a simple straightforward process. The app contains the entire Ibstock brick library, and allows the user access to a full range of Ibstock panel and project shots. It also has the ability to compare multiple products, order samples and share images via email for review. Download the free app now by searching for Ibstock on Google Play or click the button below: Fast Forward with BBA Approved Fastrack Chimneys Faststack, the original pre-fabricated real brick slip chimney from Ibstock Kevington, is now the first of its kind to achieve British Board of Agrément (BBA) accreditation. With changes in planning criteria seeing the reintroduction of requirements for chimney stacks on many developments, the recent accreditation from the BBA of Faststack Chimneys gives the product the gold standard in terms of quality and performance. Andrew Halstead-Smith, group marketing manager at Ibstock, comments: "This new third-party approval for Faststack Chimneys just goes to show the original in the marketplace is still the best quality, with its performance proven through rigorous testing. It adds to the approval the product has already received from the Construction Glassfibre Manufacturer’s Association (CGMA) and sets a new benchmark for quality." The Faststack system is designed to make the installation of both working and decorative chimneys simple and cost-effective. It is available in a range of chimney designs and flue choices, for all roof locations, and is clad with real brick slips, making it easy to match a new or existing building. Andrew Halstead-Smith explains: "Not only can planning requirements easily be satisfied so projects fit with local vernacular, but once on site the chimneys can be installed quickly and easily as they are delivered to site complete. Using real brick slips means the chimney weathers traditionally and perfectly matches the brick on the main building. Also, extensive freeze-thaw and wind testing ensures complete weather-resistance and stability." For more information on Ibstock Kevington’s range go to www.kevington.com. Ibstock Design Magazine inspires with new brick range Design Magazine from Ibstock Brick, the popular publication that provides inspiration for specifiers and architects, has returned with a new issue for 2013. Now in its 31st year, the latest edition of the well-established magazine focuses on Ibstock’s new Linear brick range. A unique selection of long thin bricks, the Linear range offers over 100 different products that have been created to offer architects the flexibility to create ever-more distinctive exteriors, while still retaining the beauty, longevity and traditional feel that only comes with the use of brick. Andrew Halstead-Smith, group marketing manager at Ibstock Brick, commented: "Design Magazine has a reputation for giving essential insight into the latest innovations in brick design. This edition builds on that to display an array of case studies that illustrate just some of the varied ways that Linear bricks can be used. "Linear provides architects and specifiers with the opportunity to juxtapose the use of a traditional building material with a modern, contemporary design style, and has already helped create some outstanding building exteriors across the UK." The Linear range encompasses clay, ceramic glazed and stone finish products, available in lengths from 240mm up to 490mm and in a choice of heights (50mm and 65mm). Two new brick textures have been added, with specifiers having the options to blend bricks from across the range. A copy of the new edition of Design Magazine can be requested at www.ibstock.com/literature. To view more information on the Linear range and request samples, go to www.linearbrick.co.uk. New Ibstock app matches customer needs Ibstock Brick, the UK’s largest brickmaker, has unveiled a bespoke iPad and iPhone app that makes the brick matching and selection process easier for all customers. The free Ibstock Brick app contains a revolutionary brick matching facility that allows customers to filter the selection by colour, texture, size and type. This makes it easy for customers to find just the right brick for any project through a simple straightforward process. The app contains the entire Ibstock brick library, and allows the user access to a full range of Ibstock panel and project shots. It also has the ability to compare multiple products, order samples and share images via email for review. Download the free app now by searching for Ibstock Brick on the App Store or click the button below: Ibstock joins NBS National BIM Library Ibstock, the U.K.’s biggest brickmaker has just released over 200 of the country’s most popular bricks used in commercial and housing projects as BIM objects. The brick objects are available in all common BIM formats. Visit www.nationalbimlibrary.com/ibstock to view the widest range of BIM format brick objects. Ibstock extends it range of Linear bricks Ibstock now offers the widest range of long thin bricks available with a choice of over 95 different colours and textures with lengths up to 490mm long. More information on our Linear brick range BrickShield External Wall Insulation System awarded BBA approval Ibstock's innovative external wall insulation system which combines real brick slips and stone wool insulation is the only system to complete the rigorous testing regime to be awarded a British Board of Agrement (BBA) certification. BrickShield is ideal for thermally upgrading buildings with solid walls and still maintain their visual appearance. The system has been widely used on many schemes bring many homes up to modern standards of warmth and comfort. More information on our Brickshield range New Severe Exposure Guide For Brickwork Ibstock endorses the new Brick Development Association Guide to using brickwork in severely exposed areas. The guide covers best practice solutions for the use of clay bricks with Free Standing Walls, Chimneys, Window Cills, Step Flank Walls as well a movement joints and the appropriate selection of mortar. More information on severe weather brickwork Pricing Advice To assist with the forward pricing of projects, all our customers are advised to expect a high single digit price increase on bricks and special shapes towards the end of the year. Those customers currently enjoying heavily discounted prices should expect increases that are higher still. This has been forced upon us by increasing costs; driven largely by higher energy, transport and distribution expenditure. In addition, significant investment has been made to bring back additional brick capacity into the market. This will help to ensure the continuity of supply of products for our customers. Please contact your local Ibstock representative for more information. You can be assured that brickwork will remain an excellent value cladding material. Important information about CE MARKING Key Facts: From 1st July 2013 it will be mandatory for any construction product, covered by a harmonised European Standard (hEN) containing a 'ZA' annexe, to carry a Declaration of Performance (DoP) and a CE mark. Products not covered by hENs but with a European Technical Approval (ETA) may be CE marked. Products not falling under the scope of a hEN or ETA must not carry a CE mark. However most construction products will eventually have a harmonised European Standard. Standard format clay brick and pavers have been covered by hENs since 2003 and Ibstock bricks have been CE marking since then. Although bespoke and 'one off' special products will not fall under the scope of the hEN and require CE marking, Special Shaped bricks generally will and must carry the CE marking. CE marking is not a 'quality' standard, it simply confirms that a product has been manufactured to a performance standard that defines the characteristics of the product. What it means for Ibstock stockists: Our bricks and pavers are supplied in packs of multiple units. When those packs are sold or opened and sold on in smaller quantities, it will be the responsibility of the distributor to ensure that they pass on the relevant CE marking and Declaration of Performance information to the product’s final destination. Ibstock will ensure that all necessary information will be readily accessible to help our customers meet their legal obligations. TILEBRICK Tilebrick is an extruded clay unit with clever profiled edges and a tile shaped front face. It is a highly durable product which is frequently used between the first floor and the eaves. Tilebrick is available in two lengths that coordinate with conventional masonry, three different profiles and a variety of colours, creating a monolithic appearance without a visible mortar joint. More information on Tilebrick. NEW EXCLUSIVES RANGE FROM IBSTOCK Adding a new dimension to building design in the UK, the new 'Exclusives Range' from leading brick manufacturer, Ibstock, has been specifically developed to offer architects and specifiers exciting and inspirational bricks that are like nothing else currently on the market. Read more about the new Ibstock Exclusives range Glazed Bricks Available in two ranges, glazed bricks are increasingly being used in domestic and commercial applications. The Colour range consists of seven vibrant gloss colours which includes the London White, an essential option for restoration projects. The Colour Select range is available in almost any RAL colour with a number of finishes to choose from including the new salt glaze finish for projects that require extra curb appeal. More information about Glazed Bricks. Elementix Rainscreen Cladding Included in Ibstock's extensive product portfolio is a range of rainscreen cladding. A number of options are available to choose from including Elementix express which is a cost effective and easy to i nstall option, Elemetix eco-freedom that has a recycled content of 94% and Elementix colour which is available in almost any RAL colour. Specifying an Ibstock rainscreen cladding system means that you will benefit from the experience and expertise of the UK's largest brick manufacturer, including a Contact Management service, the technical department and a team of experienced design advisors. Available in a range of colours and sizes, Elementix rainscreen cladding offers architects an unrivalled choice in facade finishes. More information about rainscreen cladding can be found on the Elementix section of the website. BrickShield External Wall Insulation System BrickShield is an external wall insulation system that uses a highly durable and unique Rockwool Insulation board and real brick slips. Read more about BrickShield External Wall Insulation System Ibstock Awarded BES 6001 Across the Board Demonstrating the company's ongoing dedication to sustainable building, the UK's largest brick manufacturer, Ibstock, has been awarded a rating of ‘very good’ across all of its brickworks for the responsible sourcing standard, BES 6001. In 2010, Ibstock became the first UK brick manufacturer to achieve a level of ‘very good’ for the important standard when its Dorket Head factory in Nottingham was assessed. Click here to learn more about Ibstock achieving BES 6001 across the board Copyright © Ibstock Brick Limited | Web Development by iWeb. | Site Map | Cookies | Email Us | 0844 800 4575 Leads to Insight