Tue, 19 Dec 2023 07:47:13 +0000 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/ Lussumo Vanilla 1.0.3 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=8492 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=8492 Thu, 26 Jan 2012 17:05:34 +0000 Triassic
Will Green Building be there? Will there be a brew on?]]> http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=3691 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=3691 Tue, 03 Mar 2009 18:21:06 +0000 pmusgrove
They then ask to be considered for the next quote! Who are they kidding? Why would I want to use them next time if they cannot give me a quote this time? Does anyone else have problems with getting quotes from window manufacturers for low U-value windows?]]> http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=8475 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=8475 Tue, 24 Jan 2012 11:00:52 +0000 jamesw
So it's like triple glazing, but the middle pane is made not of glass but of a film. Allegedly U values are as good as or better than triple glazing - see http://www.albo.co.uk/what-is-heat-mirror.htm. The advantage for me would be that's it lighter, which is why my architect has suggested it since we're considering large expanses of glass in a roof structure.

Does anyone have experience of this? I can envisage various potential problems. Even if it looks OK to begin with, it would be no good if the suspended film started to sag after a few years.

All I've found here is from three years ago, when mbartosik wrote at http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/forum114/comments.php?DiscussionID=527&page=4:

"For anyone reading from elsewhere [than the US], try looking for windows with "Heat Mirror" films. Adding a 3rd layer of glass makes the window heavier which is not typically an issue unless you want impact resistance or lamination for sound deadening. The Heat Mirror films are very light weight and come in various formulations and single and double coated. Alpen make windows with up to 3 films (4 gas spaces) and up to double coated. The more films and coatings the more the tinting effect, so it is important to see an example. I'm ordering mostly with two single sided films (some with two double sided films). The center of glass R value is about 9.5 (US units) for two single sided films"]]> http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=8396 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=8396 Wed, 11 Jan 2012 20:06:15 +0000 JSHarris
I'm in the market for a solar thermal system to provide around 150 to 200 litres per day (maximum) of domestic hot water, with output optimised for the winter months. DHW will come from a thermal store that cannot exceed about 400 to 500 litres, because of space limitations. Supplementary heat to the thermal store will most probably come from a heat pump. I have a vertical wall space that faces almost south that is about 3.5 m wide and about 2.5 m high. The top of the space I have available is about 3 m above ground level. I can probably tilt the array off the wall at the bottom slightly, maybe up to 0.75m or so away at the base (there is no path running along this wall).

I may need to deal with excessive summer heating, either by having a heat dump or maybe by means of a blind that I can pull down over the panel(s). Being super-cost effective is not the top priority, I'd rather try and get good value, performance and known reliability. I'd prefer not to use something experimental, so am really looking for recommendations on "known to work well" systems if possible.

My initial thoughts were that an evacuated tube array would probably give the best performance in cold weather, as all I've read suggests that flat panels lose more heat when it's sunny yet cold (we tend to get a fair few cold, dry and bright days here in winter). If anyone has information to the contrary then I'd be interested to hear them. I'd prefer to buy a complete, ready to install, system than a bunch of different components that may not work optimally when hooked together.]]> http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=8338 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=8338 Thu, 29 Dec 2011 14:37:48 +0000 JT101
Here's a summary:
I’m happy with my new LED bulb, and only replaced my CFL since it actually blew a couple of weeks ago.
Costs around £10 / bulb, but should save around £50 / year for a typical household if all bulbs replaced (assuming 10 bulbs), with a payback of 1-2 years and saves around 270Kg CO2. Bulbs last approx 10-20years. Over next few years the cost will come down to pence rather than £’s]]> http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=8296 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=8296 Sat, 17 Dec 2011 13:07:45 +0000 owlman http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7649 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7649 Mon, 01 Aug 2011 21:05:02 +0100 Mike George
I've just been shown this by a potential client. On the face of it, it seems to solve the perceived problems with thermal bypass associated with partial fill insulation. It also adresses the percieved problem of water ingress associated with full-fill insulation. What do we think?]]> http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=8086 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=8086 Sun, 06 Nov 2011 22:13:05 +0000 mzthomps http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=5440 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=5440 Wed, 03 Mar 2010 11:23:56 +0000 RobinB "Loft insulation: £5 for 3 DIY rolls, £99 per house INSTALLED
Can cut £150 off your heating bills annually - so pays for itself within a year. Free for over 70s
There's a big push to get lofts insulated, cutting down heating bills and helping the environment. Yet often at £6 a roll and typically around 15 rolls needed plus any installation costs it can be over £200. Cheap DIY Deals: Currently B&Q is offering a £5 for 3 rolls promotion. Your local councils may be cheaper: Many offer discounted loft insulation including installation, for example if you live in Hertfordshire or Essex you can get it for £99 all in; we need your help to compile a full list. Grants for over 70s: If you're over 70 or are in receipt of certain benefits you can get loft insulation totally free. FULL info and help us compile the list of council offers in the Forum Note: Free & Cheap Loft Insulation Related Guides: Switch Gas & Elec, Cheap Boiler Cover, Grant Grabbing"]]> http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7580 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7580 Tue, 12 Jul 2011 22:38:28 +0100 MikeRumney What else is there out there? and how green is it really?
Trying to find a workable, rot-free and less "heat bridgey" alternative to wood but it's got to stand up under scrutiny!]]> http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=8096 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=8096 Wed, 09 Nov 2011 09:50:51 +0000 adwindrum I would be interested to hear any feedback from people on here about this company and their product. I appreciate that there are cheaper ways to build, but convenience is a real factor here.

Are there any other turn key companies people could recomend. All the frame or SIPS system builders seem to just put shells up rather than turn key which is my preference for my first build.
Thanks in advance.]]> http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=6311 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=6311 Mon, 20 Sep 2010 13:15:08 +0100 ali.gill
The new Welsh PassivHaus timber window system is a quantum leap in design which looks set to win back buyers from the plastic sector with new standards in energy efficiency, longevity and design.

What makes this new system – just this week given approval by the German authorities – even more impressive is that it has taken only two and half months from concept to final product.

http://www.woodknowledgewales.co.uk/page.jsp?id=115
http://www.uwha.co.uk/PassivHaus/Technical%20Information.html]]> http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=8006 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=8006 Mon, 24 Oct 2011 17:38:17 +0100 SteveZ
The extract below is from the LoCO2 website so, unless they are telling lies, it appears to be green to me:

"Our Pocket+ tariff is our second 100% renewable electricity product. The electricity comes from a wider range of new renewable sources:

hydro
wind
solar
Anaerobic digestion
Landfill gas
Biofuels

No CO2 is emitted or produced."

Have a look - http://www.loco2energy.com/Switch_My_Home_to_Renewable_energy/Our_renewable_energy_tariffs.asp

Usual disclaimer - no connection with the company, just a customer hoping to have made the right decision.]]> http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=8013 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=8013 Tue, 25 Oct 2011 16:02:44 +0100 baffled
Thinking of using it on a cold wall on a fairly narrow staircase. It's a west-facing wall on a stone house with no cavity wall and no space to add anything internally that's any thicker than the 2mm of the Warmaline. Underneath the staircase is a cellar.

No possibility of permission for external insulation.]]> http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7894 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7894 Wed, 05 Oct 2011 10:03:35 +0100 djh
http://www.hiss-reet.com/products/

Just thought it might be of interest to some people on here.]]> http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7854 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7854 Sun, 25 Sep 2011 18:25:47 +0100 CathyAshley http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7844 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7844 Thu, 22 Sep 2011 19:44:08 +0100 si_b
Need some help if anyone has either of these and wants to write a decent review of either of these ranges to sway my decision.

Its got to be wood, burn overnight and be able to do DHW, CH - 6-8 rads and cook on. Am experienced in using a old wood fired rayburn royal, which was great, but hard work controlling. So am looking for something with a bit more control if poss

any help grateful]]> http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7821 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7821 Fri, 16 Sep 2011 10:54:04 +0100 RobinB
Just came across this and found it quite beautiful in itself. It's application for both permanent and temporary and easily customised housing structures also appeals.

I don't have any connection with them.

RobinB]]> http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7496 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7496 Wed, 15 Jun 2011 22:43:50 +0100 barbjones http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7777 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7777 Sun, 04 Sep 2011 18:41:57 +0100 Shevek http://www.vphase.co.uk/

http://www.vphase.co.uk/how-it-works
"The UK electricity distribution network operates at a nominal 230V, although in practice average voltages are more likely to range between 240V and 245V. The VPhase unit manages voltage to a stable level, normally 220V in the UK, regardless of the incoming supply voltage"]]> http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=5395 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=5395 Tue, 23 Feb 2010 17:19:06 +0000 aa44
Cree R&D result breaks 200 lumen per watt barrier
04 Feb 2010
Cree is claiming a new R&D record for a white high-power LED.

High-power LED manufacturer Cree claims to have set a new laboratory record for a white, high-power LED of 208 lm/W. Just two months ago, Cree reported an R&D result of 186 lm/W. The 208 lm/W LED produced 208 lumens of light output at a correlated color temperature of 4579 K. The tests were conducted under standard LED test conditions at a drive current of 350 mA at room temperature.

As acknowledged in Cree's press release, this level of performance is not yet available in Cree’s production LEDs. The company says that this R&D result passes a "significant milestone" within the solid-state lighting industry, as well as demonstrating Cree’s "relentless drive" to increase the performance of its LEDs.

“We have now broken the elusive 200-lumen-per-watt efficacy barrier for a single white power LED,” said John Edmond, Cree co-founder and director of advanced optoelectronics.

“This is a result of improvements in blue [chip] optical output power, lower operating voltage and higher conversion efficiency. We continue to push the envelope in white LED technology to enable the highest efficiency white lighting products in the marketplace.”]]> http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7739 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7739 Thu, 25 Aug 2011 21:17:43 +0100 MikeRumney Any makes jump out as best in anyone's experience?
So many to choose from ... Ronafix additive, Isothin, Arditex RS, Ecoscreed, Flexidry, Flowcryl, Sikafloor, Weber floor 4060 ........ 4:1 sand and cement with PVA ...... maybe they're all similar enough for it not to matter?
(Doing 30sqm, probably in three sections)
Bet there'll be more questions before answers!
Thanks, Mike.]]> http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7583 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7583 Thu, 14 Jul 2011 10:23:00 +0100 MikeRumney (Dutch company Reppel makes it and it's sold in the UK by CDI Northern Distribution)
They're sending a sample but could do with hearing about other people's experiences :bigsmile:]]> http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=2516 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=2516 Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:27:27 +0100 Ben GreenHomes
Compared to normal DG? Does it work as well?]]> http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7482 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7482 Sun, 12 Jun 2011 08:51:04 +0100 katys
I'd always thought that roof slates would be too thin to put on the floor and would crack, but if anyone's got around this problem I'd be grateful if they could share their experience as reclaimed roof slates are cheaper than a lot of alternative reclaimed floor tiles.

Thanks,
Kate]]> http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7463 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7463 Mon, 06 Jun 2011 16:56:05 +0100 carolwat
I am about to have some new rewiring done this week and need to know ASAP.

Many thanks.]]> http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7460 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7460 Mon, 06 Jun 2011 12:57:14 +0100 Joiner http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7403 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7403 Thu, 19 May 2011 18:23:46 +0100 Triassic
They have a camp site, on which they have what can best be described as a large dilapidated shed (6m x 4m) that is used as a dining shelter. It has a cooker, sink and work surfaces, tables and chairs. The shed has a couple of windows and a door and a section, about the size of a garage door opens so Scouts and easily get in and out. The current building was second hand when they got it and it's way past its best and needs replacing before it falls down.

I've recently seen a SIPs house going up and was impressed by the speed of construction and was wondering if you can simply buy SIPs panels and use them to build a new dining shelter/shed?

Any thought or ideas?]]> http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7362 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7362 Wed, 11 May 2011 09:20:34 +0100 DonC
Don C]]> http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7321 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7321 Wed, 27 Apr 2011 10:29:10 +0100 MikeRumney Any issues with this product? (eg type of plastics used, design quality ...)
Any issues with this design (eg prone to blocking?)
All comments very much appreciated :smile:]]> http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7254 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7254 Sun, 10 Apr 2011 10:44:19 +0100 Phil.Chaddah-Duke
Do you think this was a one off or can we expect the same from PIR board today or has technology moved on and today's boards have much longer lifespan? Don't fancy having to dig the garden up in 25 years!]]> http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7160 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7160 Tue, 22 Mar 2011 10:21:19 +0000 andy t So i'm working for a uPVC window company (distant sounds of gnashing teeth) which I know isn't a popular subject on here, but they do a good job and have an excellent reputation. All work comes from referal and although the last couple of years hit them a bit (who didn't suffer?) they have survived.
My job is to help them re-generate which I have done ok with re-ngotiating prices from suppliers etc and making them leaner (no this isn't a CV).
I am looking at this http://www.whshalo.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&layout=blog&id=160&Itemid=287
as an alternative product to generate more work.
Yes I know it has no wood in it or aluminium, and has been the downfall of many wood frame manufacturers.
The problem is, uPVC isn't going to go away no matter how much we wish it. Simply because the majority end user wants cheap. It has a bad reputation caused by companies like S@festyle (I have yet to meet a window fitter that works for free) and such like.
There are times though when I wonder about the hostility towards upvc as thermoplastics are used in underfloor heating pipes, light switches, plug sockets, cables etc all accepted without hue and cry.
Aluminium and copper manufacture isn't much cleaner, all acceptable.
So why can't we embrace (?!) it as we do other use of the same materials?
(begins digging trench for cover)
Andy]]> http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7214 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7214 Fri, 01 Apr 2011 09:16:31 +0100 Joiner
He'd originally priced the job from a large builder's merchants in Wolverhampton, using his old (he once lived in Wolverhampton) trade account, a place he'd always found competitive. I can testify to that, sometimes using them myself for that reason. That place is about fifteen miles from the Shifnal site so it made sense - until, out of curiosity, he priced the job at his local Devon supplier!

He has SAVED just over £600 on the (non-log sections) wood for the roof and internal studding, suspended floors, etc.

He SAVED £2,700 on the roof tiles (Spanish), 4,000 tiles.

It paid the customer to hire a lorry and take a day off to fetch the stuff. (He'd originally tried to arrange a return-load, but the company who'd accepted the offer didn't get back to him!)

If anyone wants the address of that Devon company, Whisper me and I'll send the details.]]> http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7119 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7119 Tue, 15 Mar 2011 20:35:54 +0000 rhamdu
http://www.boingboing.net/2011/03/15/curvy-wood-floors-us.html]]> http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7032 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=7032 Sun, 27 Feb 2011 09:39:00 +0000 Mike George
A starter is that it has a better lambda value than the PUR/PIR's, so better u-values for a given thickness.]]> http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=6977 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=6977 Tue, 15 Feb 2011 11:47:56 +0000 Joiner
Never heard of them before. Found them whilst looking for an explanatory link to illustrate a point on another forum.]]> http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=6968 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=6968 Sun, 13 Feb 2011 09:10:33 +0000 Joiner
http://wolseleyselfbuild.co.uk/news/2009/06/26/reducing-co2s-greener-tomorrow]]> http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=896 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=896 Thu, 22 Nov 2007 15:48:13 +0000 edwinvanek http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=6358 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=6358 Wed, 29 Sep 2010 22:42:28 +0100 ssstrome
Anyone used ScotVu windows, supplied by IDAW and advertised as designed for the Scottish climate? Our timber frame supplier uses this company; we would have liked to use Nordan because they are tried & tested & everyone up here uses them, but are a little tied into the timber frame company at his stage. Have seen the Scotvu windpws and they look up to the job (our self-build is in a very exposed spot) but our builder hasn't heard of them so if anyone has experience of them I'd appreciate an opinion. Specifically the reversible range which don't have the ugly aluminium strip which for some reason is standard on the tilt & turn range. Any info much appreciated.]]> http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=6844 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=6844 Thu, 20 Jan 2011 14:49:36 +0000 petecooper I'm researching SIP manufacturers for a forthcoming self-build in a few years time (I'm broke, y'see - so I'm doing the research while I save up). I've got Green Building mag, Build It! mag and sundry other bits and bobs, but I was hoping for some pointers to any recommended UK SIP manufacturers and/or their websites. I'm using the list on UK SIPs Association Ltd's website (http://www.uksips.org/profiles) as a starter, but if anyone's got any additional pointers or recommended places to check, I'd be very grateful.

TIA.
Pete]]> http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=5565 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=5565 Sun, 28 Mar 2010 20:52:47 +0100 john_connett http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=1061 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=1061 Sun, 06 Jan 2008 10:29:51 +0000 Nickysells1 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=6782 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=6782 Fri, 07 Jan 2011 22:23:46 +0000 Justin
Most cheap downpipe filters have too small a throat for the deluges anyway.
Most also use a filter straight across the entire flow. - Which spells blockages to me.

I really like the look of WISY collectors, which can't block by design. Nice. But at about £200 this really is a lot to spend to fill my butts. eg here FS 87 VA for example:
[url]http://www.constructionresources.com/products/pdfs/services/WISY%20filter%20collector.pdf[/url]

I could try to make something which works the same way, but my time is precious (as is my cash).

Has anyone come up with a non-block more economical alternative with a similar parallel filter design? (Or perhaps a nice DIY design which might would work with some suitable pipes and solvent weld)]]> http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=6751 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=6751 Wed, 29 Dec 2010 18:36:01 +0000 BrianR
http://www.theregister.co.uk/2010/12/29/standard_charger/

Following on from the lead of the magnificent Chinese! The EU is years behind but welcome eeven so.

No more taking off on holiday with 5 different chargers!

Brian.]]> http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=162 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=162 Sat, 31 Mar 2007 18:34:44 +0100 Spike http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=1681 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=1681 Mon, 05 May 2008 21:40:19 +0100 stewa79 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=6388 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=6388 Sat, 09 Oct 2010 09:31:25 +0100 sl638e
We're in the middle of a renovation/extension project and looking at a low-energy lighting solution to give a similar effect to halogen spotlights.

We've heard that Megaman does some good products - bulbs which allegedly have a similar colour temperature to halogen, and therefore a warm light: http://www.megamanuk.com/megaman-products/lamps/?series_name=led-reflector-series.

Three questions:

1. Does anyone have any experience of using this product? If so was it successful, and is there anything we need to be aware of?

2. As complete novices in the field of lighting, we're not sure what kind of bulbs are most suitable for use in our rooms (very large kitchen/diner plus small bathroom, ceilings about 8ft high; shower room under stairs with low ceiling of extremely shallow depth). Megaman offers many different products in this range. Can you advise?

3. Can you recommend a suitable fitting for these bulbs? The builder says we must be careful about fire regulations, as the light fittings will breach the integrity of the ceiling. Some lights will also be in shower/bath areas and need to comply with water-resistance regulations. We want something extremely simple and minimal in appearance, and preferably at a reasonable price (this project has only just started, and already costs are escalating beyond expectations!).

Thanks for your help!

Anne]]> http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=6709 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=6709 Sun, 19 Dec 2010 21:18:21 +0000 dreadjembe
Any information out there on the use of other organic vegetable waste matter such as jerusalem artichoke?
does anyone know the difference in thermal/longevity functionality between hemp and straw?
are there things such as straw blocks? (made with either lime or clay, maybe recycled glass or crushed shell as agg)
is it just a case of experimenting with Jerusalem artichoke, lime/clay, and recycled glass for aggregate or has stuff like this been done and results available?

cheers,

www.limegreenbuildings.co.uk]]> http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=6672 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=6672 Sun, 12 Dec 2010 23:41:10 +0000 wookey
It's not launched yet so the website is not very useful, but I saw their pre-production kit and talked to their chief engineer and boss-man and was impressed.

This is potentially disruptive technology. They have solved the perennial problem of a low-voltage DC home network (what voltage to use) by supplying 'all of them'. DC power is distributed at whatever voltage your battery or supply is (e.g. ~24V or ~12V) then each socket converts to the end-device voltage according to the cable you plugged in (using current and volatge-setting resistors in the connector), so you'll get 5V for USB devices, 19V for your laptop, 9V for the phone etc. Very neat.

Their focus is using a house battery (e.g 0.5-1kWh LiFePO4) and small off-grid PV system (that you can just buy at the DIY store and install in a couple of hours) but the DC distribution tech is actually independent of that aspect.

I don't know if it'll be cheap enough to be attractive, but it is pretty neat. Should be ready for launch 'very soon', which I suspect means a small number of months in practice.
http://www.moixaenergy.com/page.asp?pageid=25]]> http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=6676 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=6676 Mon, 13 Dec 2010 15:20:45 +0000 Joiner