WALKING SEMINARS

Guided audio tours including life-sized exhibits

Self Build & Renovation experts led the hugely popular walking seminars through the life size exhibits during the show, on topics covering Eco Technology, Building Systems, Groundworks and Roofing. Many visitors joined them to get unbiased guidance and insight into the nitty gritty of self build.

Eco Technology

It is an Eco jungle out there!  Our expert led this guided tour of all things green, giving an unbiased insight into renewable technologies such as heat pumps, Solar Thermal panels, Photo voltaic cells, condensing Boilers, heat recovery & ventilation systems and biomass (wood) boilers and burners. How they work, what are their benefits and limitations, and if they right for their build? Visitors discovered more about the pros and cons of underfloor heating, radiators and warm air systems. Our expert is truly independent, so visitors were able to ask the questions they have always wanted to, without getting the standard salesman’s answers!

Building Systems

Traditional brick and block may be the most common method of construction in the UK but timber frame, a popular choice with self builders, is even older; green oak frame manufacturers can make a solid case for being the true ‘Traditional’ building system for the UK. But which is best? There are now many more different systems available for the modern self-builder to choose from including ICF, SIPs and Concrete together with variations on the brick and block theme, such as the innovative thin joint system. Visitors were able to find out the pros and cons of each system and decide what is best for them in this guided tour of modern building systems.

Groundworks

A house is only as good as the foundations it sits on, so it is vital to get this right. The conditions underground are the great unknown in self building, and costs can spiral if unfavourable conditions exist. Visitors found out the difference between each foundation option available to them and the likely indicative costs of each, with the help of the experienced advisors available here in the Centre. They were also able to find out how to plan for and install a modern watertight basement into their projects. On top of this they discovered how to get around foul drainage issues for remote or difficult sites, how to apply for and plan for the installation of essential services and how to do their bit for the environment by utilising harvested rainwater.

Roofing

Whether building new or renovating, every home needs a roof that works. As well as keeping the weather out and the heat in, it needs to look good, too. The options for tiles and rainwater goods can be overwhelming, but with our expert’s guidance, visitors were able to see what is available and decide what would be best for their project. During the tour, our expert explained everything you’d need to know about roof design and construction - including how it is possible to save money and maximise available space by creating a room in the roof at the same time as the roof is designed. A small additional outlay at the early stages of the build to cover attic trusses and roof lights can pay for itself many times over when compared to converting a standard roof space at a future date.