Shower installations can present challenges for even the most experienced of installers. Tom Rastall, head of product management at Bristan, takes us through the most common shower installation challenges and how to solve them. It`s always been our priority to make the lives of installers easier, so we lead every product innovation with a customer inspired approach. We created the On Tap Plumbers Group to provide a supportive community for installers and plumbers across the UK to share advice and tips, but it has also become a great insight tool for the product development team. We take the time to listen to the real concerns and challenges of plumbers, so we can create products that are consistently easy to choose, install and use. In this article, we`ll take you through the challenges that crop up most with our On Tap members when it comes to shower installation, and the brilliantly simple solutions that can make the job a whole lot easier. Replacement Many customers want more choice and flexibility when it comes to their bathroom design but replacing a shower can be a hassle – especially in a property with old pipework. Bristan mini valves are a useful solution. The valves feature brilliantly engineered flexible elbows, so they can be installed onto any existing pipework and are able to replace any concentric mixer shower on the UK market that use

A new survey from the Water Regulation Advisory Scheme (WRAS) shows that almost a fifth of consumers regularly attempt to fix plumbing problems in the home themselves. A third of respondents also admit to having had to call in a plumber to fix a DIY disaster. WRAS is urging people to think carefully about which plumbing tasks they are competent to do themselves and which ones should be left to a professional qualified plumber, saying that even a simple task like fitting a washing machine needs some knowledge about the water fittings regulations. For example a common mistake when fitting a washing machine would be to use a non-compliant hose with no backflow protection. Survey results When asked where they would source advice or information on repairing plumbing problems, 6% say they never seek advice. Others seek guidance from YouTube (49%), Google (44%), and friends and family (38%) before seeking professional advice and calling on a plumber (31%). The research shows that people are willing to try their hands at simpler plumbing tasks, such as bleeding a radiator (58%), fixing a leaky tap (41%), installing a washing machine or dishwasher (36%). The top plumbing task Brits are most likely to fix themselves are: • Bleed a radiator (58%) • Check a stop tap is working (42%) • Fix a leaky tap (41%) • Ins

The team behind PipeSnug – an innovative product designed to provide a smart and quick-to-apply finish around pipework – has launched a larger `FlueSnug` version designed to fit all 100mm boiler flues. Removing any need for pointing, FlueSnug can be installed in a matter of seconds and snuggly fits the 152mm core-drilled hole through which the boiler pipe and flue exits. It can be used both inside and outside the property and also acts as a barrier to drafts, damp, insects, and pests. FlueSnug also allows installers to quickly access the flue for any service or maintenance requirements, without the need to remove existing brickwork, mortar or sealant. It can then be quickly reinstalled, again saving time and cost. The new product is said to offer installers a cost-effective way to comply with proposed changes to the Building Regulations, which are set to mandate the need for pipe collars or grommets where pipe enters or exits a home.

A new study from the Water Regulatory Advisory Scheme (WRAS) has found that 91% of approved plumbers believe it should be mandatory for plumbers to undertake water fittings regulations training. The research also showed that plumbers want their industry training to be updated to cover off broader spectrum of topics and include periodic refresher training and auditing. In terms of water fitting regulations, 60% of plumbers agree that more in-depth training on the regulations is needed on their courses. The study also found that 55% of plumbers agree that periodic refresher training would ensure plumbers apply the water fittings regulations correctly. Although plumbers have called for some updates to current training, almost four out of five (77%) believe that the current water fitting regulations programme encourages good practise and gives plumbers the knowledge to apply the regulations correctly. Support for continual professional development resources to be readily available was supported by half of the approved plumbers surveyed. Online resources, videos and quizzes were highlighted as examples of useful tools that could be used by skilled plumbers to ensure continued compliance with water regulations. In response to this, WRAS has launched a new online quiz for plumbers. The short questionnaire will test knowledge on the water fittings regulatio

Training provider JTL is encouraging employers to hire new apprentices and take advantage of the latest government funding initiative. The Chancellor`s summer statement provided further detail on the government`s Plan for Jobs to tackle unemployment post Covid-19 and the statement included funding incentives and schemes aimed at helping young people. JTL believes that the funding now accessible to employers will have a hugely positive impact on businesses being able to make the most of the resources and skilled labour available to them, and in turn further support the country`s economic recovery. Data from the Department of Education reveals that employer vacancies for apprentices in April and May this year were 2020 and 1850, which compares to 10,400 and 12,580 in the same months of 2019, respectively. With this in mind, and taking into account that the industry was already facing a skills shortage, JTL wants to encourage and support employers to access the funding now available to them and to take on the next generation of skilled tradespeople. Caroline Turner, Director of Policy & External Relations at JTL, comments: [Data reveals that there has been a significant 85% drop in apprenticeship vacancies. Although this is an exceptionally dismal statistic, it is reassuring that the government is now willing to support apprenticeships and invest sizably to encourage employers to take on more apprentices. We believe the new government initiatives are an important landmark for both traineeships and apprenticeships and will play an important role in the UK`s recovery effort.

A new study from the Water Regulatory Advisory Scheme (WRAS) has found that 91% of approved plumbers believe it should be mandatory for plumbers to undertake water fittings regulations training. The research also showed that plumbers want their industry training to be updated to cover off broader spectrum of topics and include periodic refresher training and auditing. In terms of water fitting regulations, 60% of plumbers agree that more in-depth training on the regulations is needed on their courses. The study also found that 55% of plumbers agree that periodic refresher training would ensure plumbers apply the water fittings regulations correctly. Although plumbers have called for some updates to current training, almost four out of five (77%) believe that the current water fitting regulations programme encourages good practise and gives plumbers the knowledge to apply the regulations correctly. Support for continual professional development resources to be readily available was supported by half of the approved plumbers surveyed. Online resources, videos and quizzes were highlighted as examples of useful tools that could be used by skilled plumbers to ensure continued compliance with water regulations. In response to this, WRAS has launched a new online quiz for plumbers. The short questionnaire will test knowledge on the water fittings regulatio

The team behind PipeSnug – an innovative product designed to provide a smart and quick-to-apply finish around pipework – has launched a larger `FlueSnug` version designed to fit all 100mm boiler flues. Removing any need for pointing, FlueSnug can be installed in a matter of seconds and snuggly fits the 152mm core-drilled hole through which the boiler pipe and flue exits. It can be used both inside and outside the property and also acts as a barrier to drafts, damp, insects, and pests. FlueSnug also allows installers to quickly access the flue for any service or maintenance requirements, without the need to remove existing brickwork, mortar or sealant. It can then be quickly reinstalled, again saving time and cost. The new product is said to offer installers a cost-effective way to comply with proposed changes to the Building Regulations, which are set to mandate the need for pipe collars or grommets where pipe enters or exits a home.

Mira Showers has revealed how, in the critical months of the coronavirus outbreak, it refocused some of its resources and expertise to support the NHS in the manufacture and assembly of critical care ventilators. A video at the end of this post shows how Mira has changed and adapted to the demands of the times. Craig Baker, MD of Mira Showers, says: [When we were approached to become a partner on one of the government-appointed ventilator projects we didn`t hesitate to accept, we knew that we had the expertise and the manufacturing and assembly capability, as well as the passion and skillset in our associates, to deliver what was required." Alongside various other manufacturers who responded to the government`s request for support, Mira Showers was amongst only a few who were able to meet the stringent requirements for testing and assembly required. Jon Ramsdale, manufacturing director and project sponsor explains: [The actual assembly and testing of the ventilator is hugely complex which is part of the reason we were selected as a partner for the project. Whilst manufacturing ventilators is new grounds for us, there are lots of similarities to the complexities involved with assembling digital and electric showers and some of the equipment we are using is identical to that which we use day to day." In just 12 weeks, the manufacturer produced a `fact

Nobody wants to turn on the tap and end up with splash-back on their clothing. Neoperl says it has a simple answer to this problem with its PCA dual core aerators, which take minutes to install. They also have the added benefit of saving water, energy and therefore reducing fuel bills. Encourage your customers to save water by fitting a PCA aerator onto their existing tap. Check out the how-to video online here or follow these simple steps:

The Heat Pump Association (HPA) has launched a Training Strategy that lays out how the heating industry needs to transform to enable the wider adoption of heat pumps throughout UK building stock. The association says upskilling of heating installers provides the potential for long-term job growth at the same time as helping to achieve net zero emissions – something that could form an important part of a `green recovery`. The Strategy (see infographic below) contains five steps for how a plumbing and heating engineer can be trained to meet the new challenges we face in trying to achieve the UK goal of a zero carbon future, reducing administration cost, and recommending to government that they support a training voucher scheme for the first 5000 installers to go through the new course. The Strategy comes at the same time two industry-wide consultations are published on qualification criteria for training courses. Both consultations have a deadline of 17:00, 29 June 2020. Graham Wright, Chairman of the HPA, comments: [The Committee on Climate Change has made clear that we need to move to heat pumps taking over from gas boilers as the default replacement heating system within the next 10-15 years. This is ambitious, but entirely achievable if we move now to retrain and up-skill a market that already exists of around 120,000 existing heating engineers. The role of installers cannot be underestimated in decarbonising heat. The Strategy we are laun

Choosing the Proper Bathroom Faucet Sink Faucet (Lavatory) Faucets come in a variety of styles and finishes to coordinate with your bathroom sink. It is best to choose your sink first since the sink will often determine the style & size of the faucet needed. • Widespread - 8" Faucet The most popular sink faucet, the 8" widespread requires the center of the outermost holes to be 8" apart. Some widespreads are variable; they can be custom spaced within limits (6" - 12"). The faucet's technical sheet will give all the important measurements. This style is perfect for drop in & undermount sinks, plus pedestal & wall mount sinks that are pre-drilled for this size. From ultra modern to old word traditional, you can find a large range of styles and finishes to fit your bathroom. • Single Hole Faucets Most single hole faucets also have a single control. Lift the handle to start the water flow, turn the handle left

The internet is the fastest growing channel of the overall UK plumbing and heating products market and has experienced strong growth levels over the last decade of above 35% over the last three years, according to the latest report from AMA Research. Despite the uncertain economic climate, exacerbated by Brexit in the last three to four years, the UK internet plumbing and heating market has continued to grow. With lower prices and added convenience, internet retailers have been able to capitalise on changing consumer cross-channel shopping habits with a notable shift towards online purchases. The number of specialist internet plumbing suppliers has continued to consolidate as this market matures, with the leading players taking greater market share. Specialist suppliers account for the largest proportion of plumbing & heating products sold online, some of which still offer a showroom for potential and current customers to view products first-hand, thus enabling them to compete with standard retailers. However; two thirds of these specialist suppliers are pure-play retailers with no showroom area, this is most commonly used to assist them in keeping costs down. Shower controls and taps account for the largest proportion of sales in value terms. Bathroom furniture and accessories are the next popular product categories. The products following on in succession are baths and sanitaryware, heating products such as boilers and standard radiators, shower e

Shower manufacturer Aqualisa has unveiled the latest evolution of its Smart Quartz Collection, designed to establish Wi-Fi connection, app technology and voice activation as an integral part of the showering experience. The range consists of the new Quartz Blue (pictured), described as the introduction to the smart showering revolution for the new Collection, Quartz Classic, a proven best seller now with added smart technology and top of the range Quartz Touch, said to deliver the most personal showering experience yet. Every member of a household can activate their own personal shower requirement – created and saved on the App. For ease of installation, the Aqualisa Smart Valve – the brains of the new smart collection – can be located up to 10 metres away from the shower itself. [ `Alexa turn my shower on` will quickly become a familiar command in homes with a new Aqualisa Smart Quartz Collection shower," says Aqualisa CEO, Colin Sykes. [Despite the advent of the smart home and the arrival of a myriad of smart products, the suggestion, even five years ago, that showers would take this huge step into the world of smart technology would have been difficult to imagine. Thanks to Aqualisa, this is now a reality. It seems the most natural development for them to take, but we`re delighted it`s us introducing this technology."

Victaulic, the mechanical pipe joining systems manufacturer, has revealed how its products have played a key role in ensuring that the recently constructed Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London is one of the best in Europe. The company provided the fittings, 627 check and butterfly valves, and in excess of 10,000 couplings that were installed by mechanical services company Price Building and which now help to ensure the flow of cold, heated and chilled water systems around the stadium. As a flame-free method, grooved mechanical pipe-joining removes the many health and safety concerns associated with welding and thereby eliminates the risk of fire and the need for special fire safety precautions during installation and maintenance. Overall, it helped to increase the installation speed and reduce the need for hot works, thus delivering greater onsite safety and reducing cost. Victaulic`s StrengThin 100 System was widely installed on the stadium`s boosted cold water services due to its low weight and easy installation. The product is the industry`s first grooved mechanical piping system that is specifically designed to perform up to 16 bar on thin wall 304/316 stainless steel pipe. The innovation drastically improved the efficiency of onsite material handling by taking away the challenges of welding thin wall stainless steel pipe and again reducing overall installation costs. Training sessions To accelerate the process and ensure quality, V

WaterSafe – the national register of qualified, approved plumbers – is sharing a selection of blogs illustrating how their members feel about the coronavirus outbreak. The organisation asked plumbers how their business is being been affected, and here is a sample of the responses received. Steve Bartin, Somerset/Devon [I`m still working on a job that luckily is in an empty house, so I`m able to continue with that for now. Before the lockdown we had lots of calls from people trying to get plumbers in to finish jobs. [As well as the danger to health for plumbers still working, one of the biggest issues will be sourcing materials. It`s not just plumbers that will be in short supply, but parts too. [I`m worried that tradesmen are prioritising customers` needs over their own and not thinking of their own safety, and that of their family. It`s so important to follow the recommended safety measures, to glove up, and keep completely clear from your customers. [The rural areas I work in are quite isolated so local plumbers may feel more comfortable making house visits compared with city tradesmen. [One thing about being at home more is that I won`t be short of things to do – my wife`s got a stockpile of materials at home and a long

Choosing a Shower Head or Shower System An invigorating shower can get the day off to a smart start. Learn about the different types of shower heads, shower faucets and shower systems to find what will work best in your bathroom. Table of Contents

In view of the rapid spread of COVID-19 across the world, China has decided to temporarily suspend the entry into China by foreign nationals holding visas or residence permits still valid to the time of this announcement, effective from 0 a.m., 28 march 2020. Entry by foreign nationals with APEC Business Travel Cards will be suspended as well. Policies including port visas, 24/72/144-hour visa-free transit policy, Hainan 30-day visa-free policy, 15-day visa-free policy specified for foreign cruise-group-tour through Shanghai Port, Guangdong 144-hour visa-free policy specified for foreign tour groups from Hong Kong or Macao SAR, and Guangxi 15-day visa-free policy specified for foreign tour groups of ASEAN countries will also be temporarily suspended. Entry with diplomatic, service, courtesy or C visas will not be affected. Foreign nationals coming to China for necessary economic, trade, scientific or technological activities or out of emergency humanitarian needs may apply for visas at Chinese embassies or consulates. Entry by foreign nationals with visas issued after this announcement will not be affected. The suspension is a temporary measure that China is compelled to take in light of the outbreak situation and the practices of other countries. China will stay in close touch with all sides and properly handle personnel exchanges with the rest of the world under the special circumstances. The above-mentioned measures will be calibrated in light of the evolving situation and announced accordingly. Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China

Mounting Options The main distinction among bath sinks is how and where they`re mounted. Here are the top options: Countertop This is the most common installation, with the sink sitting in or on a countertop, typically as part of a vanity unit with cabinetry. Countertop sinks generally offer good storage and elbow room, as there's usually a sizable surface around the basin and cabinetry. This category includes the following: Integrated Sinks: The countertop and sink are one piece and made of the same material. They're sized to fit standard vanity widths. These sinks are easy to clean. Top-Mount or Self-Rimming Sinks: They have rolled edges that allow the sink to be dropped down into a countertop opening. Top-mo

Sanitary Ware Market: Global Share, Size, Trends and Growth Analysis Forecast to 2019-2025 Sanitary Ware Market Status, By Players, Types, Applications And Forecast To 2025 PUNE, MAHARASHTRA, INDIA, October 11, 2019 /EINPresswire.com/ -- Sanitary Ware Industry Description The term sanitary might sound a slight bit ambiguous, but in general use, it refers to the sanitary appliances that are found in your bathrooms, toilets, and installations. Some of the common examples of sanitary ware are the washbasins, pedestals, urinals, wall hanging, bathtubs, the toilet tanks, tanks, one-piece toilet, commodes, sink, shower, drinking fountain, bidet, etc. Since there are so many products that are used in bathrooms and toilets, this industry has a vast market share. One of the major reasons for the growth is the concept of the increase of a modern bathroom. There has been a significant increase in the demand for bathroom boutiques since more and more people are willing to redecorate their bathrooms, toilets, and urinals in a contemporary form. This is also because of the versatile nature of ceramic products and their pleasant appearance, which enhance the overall appeal of the interiors or any space where they are used. The ceramic material in sanitary ware apart from serving the sanitary purposes also serve the decoration purpose, making them one of the most popular materials