Specialists in Carpentry, Passive Fire & Brickwork Supplies

11

Nov

Construction Industry update Q4 2022

We’ve brought together the headlines from some leading Industry sources to provide a snapshot of the economic outlook for the Construction Industry. Construction Output expected to fall significantly in 2023 amid looming UK Economic Recession Headlines from the Construction Products Association (CPA) forecast a reduction in construction output of 3.9% in 2023 (compared to a rise of 2.0% in 2022). The CPA cite this as “mainly due to the impact of a wider economic recession, exacerbated by the effect of the ‘Mini Budget’, and the consequent fallout from recent political uncertainty.” For the full article visit ConstructionProducts.org.uk Construction Outlook: October 2022 Hewes & Associates forecast the decline of Construction Output in 2023 to be 5% and, state “Tighter public spending, higher inflation, and in turn raised base rates will be the new reality in our view. Efforts to control inflation will, we expect, result in base rates rising to around 4%, while inflation is forecast to peak in 2023, and drop to around 4-5% by 2024.” They also predict a housing downturn in 2023/2024 due to high borrowing rates, pressure on household incomes and low economic confidence, although “we do not foresee another round of austerity of the likes undertaken over the years 2010-2015” For the full article visit Hewes-Associates.com Some of the levers affecting these predictions: For the full article visit Building.co.uk Inflation: Energy costs:

27

Sep

Battle of the screws: Plug and screw vs masonry screw

For years, it’s seemed as if the plug and screw has been the go-to screw for carpenters. Reliable, effective and trustworthy, it’s easy to see why it’s been such a staple. However, some have voiced that they take too long to install and have been looking for alternatives. In fact, some of you have told us that you’re preferring to go with masonry screws instead, which is very interesting. Which is better though? Is the plug and screw still the undisputed number one for carpenters, or have things changed? In light of your comments, we have decided to put a comparison article together to try and find out. We stock both plug and screws and masonry screws, so we have no bias either way, but we’ve provided an objective touch to the question. By the end, you’ll know the strengths and weaknesses of each and that in itself will hopefully be enough to let you decide which is best for your projects. What are the key differences between the two screws? A plug and screw is a plastic plug and a screw. The plug goes into a pre-drilled hole in the wall and then the screw is threaded into it. As you thread the screw, the plug expands within the wall and you get a very strong grip as a result. A plug and screw can be used for things like joinery, furniture assembly, trim work and more. Meanwhile, a masonry screw also needs a pre-drilled hole, but it’s much stronger than a plug and screw. So much so, that it can be used for harder materials, such as concrete. A masonry screw can also be used for securing wooden fixtures, attaching wood to concrete and staircase installation. In addition, a masonry screw won’t need a plug either as it will self-tap its way into the material. It’s worth noting that you wouldn’t use either for things like fine joinery, wood-to-wood joinery or hardwood applications. What makes the plug and screw stand out? There are a number of reasons why the plug and screw is favoured, none more so than the fact it’s widely available and also cheap. A box of 200 Nylon Hammer Through Fixings - Plug & Screw M5 x 50mm - 25mm Fixing costs £9.73 ex. VAT, for example. If you ever run out, you’ll likely never have the issue of scrambling around trying to find some, as everyone will have them. When it comes to actually installing a plug and screw, you don’t need too much either. Aside from a pre-drilled hole, all you need is a screwdriver and then you’re good to go. Also, you’re much less likely to cause damage to the wall you’re screwing into. This is because of the plug part, which spreads the impact load over a wider area. As such, you’re less likely to have cracks or holes in the wall when using a plug and screw. And what makes a masonry screw so useful? The main pro for a masonry screw is its strength. They are very strong and can handle a sizable amount of weight, which is especially useful when attaching shelves or brackets. It’s difficult to put an exact weight limit on a masonry screw, as many things have to be taken into consideration. This includes the strength of the material and the size of the screw. That being said, anything up to 45kg should be fine. They are also much easier to install, as you don’t need the plug element of the plug and screw to get it to fit. As soon as the hole is pre-drilled, you’re away. Also, while they are predominantly designed for heavier materials such as concrete, they can also be used for wood. This makes them quite versatile too, which can come in extremely handy depending on what your project is. Where does a plug and screw come short? The main con for a plug and screw is the one we led this article with; the time it takes to actually install. As you have to pre-drill a hole first, then line up the plug right, then finally thread the screw, what’s a simple task can take a while. In addition, that isn’t necessarily enough to guarantee proper installation. If any of the hole size, alignment or screw insertion is wrong, you risk both damage and a weak hold. If you do want something slightly heavier than normal too, the plug and screw can struggle. They can provide some strength and aren’t exactly weak, but they maybe aren’t the best bet for heavier items. And the cons of a masonry screw? While you can use a masonry screw in a lighter material, such as drywall and timber, there is the possibility it’s excessive. You could end up splitting the timber by pushing the masonry screw too far, while it might not be as strong in a lighter material as it is in a heavier one. This happens when the thread doesn’t work with the material as well as it would in say, concrete or brick. As such, it gives a weaker hold. Also, due to the force of the masonry screw, you do run the risk of surface damage. As such, you’ll have to take care when using it, so there’s also an element of skill needed to utilise it properly. How to choose between plug and screw and masonry screws If time is on your side, then the plug and screw is still the best choice, all things considered. It’s cheap, it’s effective, it’s reliable and while it can be a little fiddly with the pre-drilled hole and the fitting, it’s still a top solution. Equally, if you’re against the clock and you’re well within your budget, then a masonry screw is a better choice. You’ll be able to get a job done very quickly using masonry screws, assuming the material you’re working with isn’t too weak. If you would like to browse our plug and screws and masonry screws range, you can do so by clicking the links. Equally, if you would like to discuss pricing options or to find out more, you can do so here.

17

Aug

Your Paslode questions answered

Paslode is arguably the biggest and most well-known brand when it comes to carpentry, which means people always want to know more. After all, if you’re committing to buying a Paslode power tool, you’ll want to know everything before doing so. The last thing you want is buyer’s remorse, where you’ve got a product you don’t need. That’s something we want to avoid, as we would much rather that you make well-informed and knowledgeable buying decisions. Perhaps unsurprisingly, we get several Paslode questions every day. People always want to know more about their products and with good reason. However, while our expert sales and customer service teams are happy to field your questions, there is a more practical route. By working with those teams, we have put together a list of our 20 most frequently answered Paslode questions and have provided answers for you, too. This way, when it comes to making a decision on Paslode products, you have everything you need right in front of you. Do you offer Paslode training? Yes! We have Paslode specialists at Multifix who can offer training, which is normally done on-site but can also be done online. You can find out more about the online course here. The training covers familiarisation of the tools, how to use them properly, health and safety and environmental issues. At the end of the course, you’ll receive a certificate. Is there a surcharge with your Paslode products? No – the price that you see on the portal is the price that you’ll pay for the item. There are no hidden fees or surprises, although there may be a delivery cost depending on your order total. Will Fischer nails fit a Paslode power gun? Yes and no. So, the Fischer nails will fit a Paslode IM350 as the IM350 can take other nails. But, Fischer nails will not fit the Paslode IM360, which only takes specific nails for that power tool. However… Will using other nails void my warranty? Yes – if you’re using a Paslode nail gun and it jams/breaks because you’ve used other nails, your warranty will be invalid. It’s the same with other gas cells for the IM350+. These will largely work fine and are compatible, but if they cause the gun to break, your warranty will be void. Will using other nails invalidate my Paslode training? Also yes. The Health & Safety training part of the course specifically states you have to use Paslode nails for a Paslode product. What is the difference between the IM350+ and the IM360XI? In short, the IM350+ is lighter, more compact, less noisy and vibrates less. However, the IM360XI is more powerful, can last a lot longer and is much more technologically advanced. The nails for the IM360XI are specifically made, but they’re cheaper than the IM350+ nails. We have covered this in more depth in an article, which you can read here. Which nails fit what Paslode gun? The clipped nails, or D head nails, are for the IM350. Full-sized nails, or moon head nails depending on what part of the country you’re from, are for the IM360. How many nails can my Paslode gun fire in a day? There are two ways to answer this question; how many shots per gas cell and how many shots per battery charge. The IM350 can shoot 1100 shots per gas cell and 9000 shots per battery charge. Meanwhile, the IM360 can shoot 1250 shots per gas cell and 13000 shots per battery charge. Why is my Paslode gun not firing in cold weather? That’ll be to do with the gas – basically, the gas doesn’t work as well in the cold. As such, don’t leave it in the back of a van! In the winter, it’s advisable to keep a Paslode gas cell in your pocket, or you can try and warm the gas up with your hands. What’s the difference between first and second fix? First fix nail guns are for pretty much anything structural. This includes roofing, fencing, cladding, decking etc. You can also use them for panelling and stud work. Second fix nail guns, on the other hand, are for skirting and architrave. What Paslode gun nailer does what job? The IM350+ and IM360XI are first fix, while the IM65 straight and IM65 angled are second fix. Is Paslode the only brand that does nail guns? No, there are plenty in the market. These include Fischer, DeWalt, Hikoki, Milwaukee, Makita, Bosch and Senco, amongst others. While we can assist with Paslode and Makita, we can’t with some of the other brands listed. You can find a list of our recommended power tool retailers here. How can I prolong the lifespan of my nailer? In order to ensure your nailer lasts for a long time, you need to clean it to maintain its functionality. We stock a cleaning/maintenance kit here and you can watch a how-to YouTube video here. What are the key differences between a gas nailer and a mechanical one? A gas nailer will need fuel for it to work, whereas a mechanical nailer is entirely battery-powered. It can be cheaper to use a mechanical nailer, as it requires less maintenance. For example, a battery’s lifespan can last three years, whereas a fuel cell can last 1100 shots. However, gas nailers are lighter and a fuel cell tends to last longer than most batteries. What does the blue cap do on the IM360XI fuel cells? It doesn’t do anything special per se – it just denotes that the nails are for the IM360XI and not for the IM350+. Is there a shelf life on the Paslode fuel cells? There is an expiry date on each fuel cell, but that doesn’t mean you can’t use it if it goes beyond that. You’ll lose performance with cells that go beyond that date, but they don’t just stop working. What PPE do I need with my Paslode power tool? You’ll need protective gloves, steel toecaps, a helmet, a hi-vis, ear protectors and eye goggles to operate a Paslode power tool . You will only be using them on-site, so you’ll need the site PPE essentials to use it. How loud is my gun? The IM350+ is 89 dB (A), the IM360XI is 96 dB (A). How heavy is a Paslode compared to a Fischer? There isn’t a lot in it; the Paslode IM350+ weighs 3.3kg, while the IM360XI weighs 3.8kg. The Fischer FGW 90F fits somewhere in-between, weighing 3.5kg. What’s the difference between a straight and an angled gun? Both are second fix nail guns, but the angled gun is more for tight spaces. It’s much easier to get around corners and doors with an angled one, although their nails are more expensive. The straight nail gun is more for straightforward construction, but is also much bulkier than its angled counterpart. That just about covers it! Those are the 20 most frequently asked questions we get about Paslode and you should now have all the answers you need before making the next step. If we haven’t answered a question you have in mind, please get in touch with our expert team and we will get you the answer you need.

19

Sep

Diisocyanates regulations in 2023: how do they affect you?

If you work in carpentry, then your professional life would’ve changed overnight on August 24, 2023, because of a new regulation. As of that date, the laws around using diisocyanates changed and we’ve heard from a few of you that you aren’t entirely sure where you now stand. For those unaware, diisocyantes are used to make polyurethanes. They can be found in sealants, adhesives and foams, amongst other things. They are dangerous for humans and can cause irritation on the skin and in the eyes. More serious side effects include having occupational asthma. To help confusion, we have put this article together for you to tell you all you need to know and to save you a headache. That being said, you can read the whole regulation here. Come the end of it, you’ll know exactly what’s happened, how it affects you and what your next steps are moving forward. What are the regulations? On January 1, 2021, it was announced that the EU REACH regulation would be brought into effect in the UK. In short, EU REACH is a regulation of the European Union. It seeks “to improve the protection of human health and the environment from the risks that can be posed by chemicals,” as per its website. Given the harm diisocyanates can cause humans, since 2008, EU regulations have classified them as a category one skin sensitiser and respiratory sensitiser. As per the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), this means that diisocyanates “may cause an allergic skin reaction.” In addition, they also “may cause allergy or asthma symptoms or breathing difficulties if inhaled.” You may also be wondering how the UK can be governed by an EU law post-Brexit, but that is because EU REACH falls under the retained EU legislation list. Polyurethanes are quite commonplace within the carpentry world, so having the regulation set in stone is a big deal. So are diisocyanates banned as of now, then? No, not at all. What is new though, is that unless you are using diisocyanates in an extremely small concentration, you will need training. By extremely small concentration, we mean products with a total diisocyante concentration of less than 0.1%. However, products with less than 0.1% are extremely rare. Even a normal 750ml tube of Fire and Acoustic Seals’ Fire Door Foam has more than 0.1%, for context. This is stated in the new regulation; “As from 24 August 2023, adequate training is required before industrial or professional use.” The training courses aren’t particularly long, with the ones most applicable ranging from 30-40 minutes in length. In addition, your training certificate will need to be renewed every five years. You can do all the training online though, which is useful. It will cost you €5, but can be free - we explain where, when and how below. Where can I get the training? A new website from Safe Use of Diisocyantes has gone live, for the purpose of training. This gives you the choice of either doing self-learning or registering for sessions with a trainer. The link for the Safe Use of Diisocyantes website is here. If you choose to do the self-learning, this costs €5 (about £4.29) per user or certificate. However, you can also get the training for free. The Association of the European Adhesive and Sealant Industry, otherwise known as FEICA, is offering a code that’ll remove the €5 cost. You can access that code here. The discount code only covers certain parts, but it covers everything you need to work in the construction industry. It covers: One-component PU foams (048) Joint sealants (048) Flooring adhesives and coatings (049, includes 048) Crack injection resins (050, includes 048) Plumbing (048) Carpentry (048) Realistically, it’ll be course 048 that you’ll need to do, as it covers carpentry, one-component PU foams and joint sealants. If you need to do flooring adhesives (049) or coatings or crack injection resins (050), both include 048 as well. More information can be found on the link with the code, including a designated email address for questions about the training. Clearing up the confusion around the new regulations New regulations happen all the time and while there is the initial stage of confusion, once you get your head around them, everything becomes easier. Hopefully after reading this article, you’ll know what the new regs are and how to get the training you’ll need to move forwards. Thankfully, the training courses are quite short and can be booked for free thanks to FEICA, so they won’t be too much of an inconvenience for you. If you have any further questions about the regulations, we will gladly try and help as best as we can. You can find out how to contact us here.

26

Jan

Which Panel Adhesive Should I Be Using?

Not sure what type of panel adhesive you should be using? Unsure as to the differences between them? Take a look below at panel adhesive explained. The 3 Main Types of Adhesives Acrylic Based- Acrylic Adhesives are manufactured using acrylic or methyl acrylic polymers & fillers. They dry by a loss of water into a substrate (one of which must be porous). They are extremely strong and efficient in bonding multiple objects together and are very environmentally resistant. Solvent Based- Solvent based adhesives are manufactured using rubbers &amp; resins. They are a glue or adhesion product that usually comes in the form of a liquid. Resins are dissolved in a volatile solvent to produce a tacky polymer solution, which can be extremely adhesive when dry. These dry by the evaporation of solvent air. MS/Hybrid Polymer Based- MS/Hybrid Polymer based adhesives combine polyurethane &amp; silicone technology to deliver hybrid sealant that is extremely versatile. These are a one-part, elastic adhesive based on a modified silane polymer that cures when exposed to moisture to form high-performance elastomer. Which Panel Adhesive should I order and why? Product Type Usage Surface Usage Examples Benefits Strong Grip Panel Adhesive Solvent Based Internal & External One surface must be porous to enable curing. Applications such as PVC/Aluminium cladding, carpet grippers, wall battens, architrave and skirting boards. - Enhanced grab adhesive for quick and simple direct bonding.- Excellent gap filling properties.- No need for mechanical fixings for many applications. Strong Grip Solvent Free Adhesive Acrylic Based Mostly Internal One surface must be porous to enable curing. Applications such as architrave, dado rails, skirting boards, PVC panels and polystyrene coving. - Excellent slump resistance.- Environmentally friendly.- Excellent gap filling properties.*Not as strong as Strong Grip Panel Adhesive* Multi-X Stuck-It Grab Adhesive MS/Hybrid Polymer Based Internal & External Can be applied to damp or wet surfaces and will cure underwater. All of the above. - Incredible initial grab.- Almost limitless applications.- Versatile.- High bonding strength.- Environmentally friendly.

01

Feb

Paslode IM360Xi

The 360Xi framing nailer is light and perfectly balanced to guarantee a great performance for multiple applications. A high performing lithium battery and a weatherproof fuel cell ensures the tool will run all day, every day no matter the challenge. Features: Unbeatable power to weight ration. Lighter and better balanced tool: 3.6kg. Quick release magazine New battery position for high performing battery. Re-engineered grip. Benefits: Able to drive long nails into the hardest substrates. Guarantees all day productivity. Designed to make nail jams a thing of the past. Ensures your tool will work all day. Every day. Ensures extra comfort and convenience.

09

Dec

Multifix Online Portal - New Features

1. Condensed menus Making it quicker & easier to navigate 2. Improved user set up Simplified flow to setting up new users. 3. Three new levels of user Easily customisable to your teams with the addition of one overall Super Admin user to increase security. 4. Order Management All order stages are now displayed together with filter options to find what you need, fast. 5. User Settings Your user settings condensed into one page. 6. Quick orders Browse from the website (Browse shop), use the search bar or use your favourites list to add items to your quick order or requisition. 7. Swap between orders for different sites or projects Integration with the Website, create a quick order or requisition and then browser through our Shop to add to your order. This new feature also enables you to swap between drafts and also enables you to create new orders within the shop. 8. SMS / Email confirmation Ability to receive notifications as to when orders are despatched from our warehouse with an eta and then also when they are delivered. This can be by SMS or by email depending on what you prefer.

16

Aug

Comparing the Paslode IM350+ and IM360XI: which nail gun is right for you?

For many carpenters, the Paslode IM350+ is one of the most reliable nail guns on the market. You’ve likely used it for many jobs, it’s never let you down and it’s something you’d recommend. But, the introduction of the IM360XI somewhat complicates things. Is it better? Can it make your work more efficient or easier? Is it cheaper to maintain? As Multifix, we stock both products and the nails for them, these are questions we’re asked by carpenters who are always exploring how they can do their job better. The truth is, you might not actually need to change. With some unsure in which direction to go in, we’ve put together a comparison article that identifies the pros and cons of each product. After reading this article, you’ll be able to identify what each nail gun does and which one is best for your needs. The IM350+ and IM360XI – what’s the difference? For those of you who have read our Your Paslode questions answered article, you’ll know that the long and short of it is that the IM350+ is lighter. However, the IM360XI is more powerful and much more technologically advanced. They also both require different gas cells. Perhaps the main key difference is the type of nail, though. The IM350+ will only take clipped head nails, or D head nails. By contrast, the IM360XI will only take full roundhead nails. Aside from that though, they are very similar. The nail length range on both is 50-90mm and it’s the same 2.1 Ah Li-ion battery for both as well, which takes 90 minutes to recharge. Additionally, both will manage two to three fixings per second, which equates to around 1000 fixings per hour. Now, we’ll delve into the specifics to help you understand each product better. Weight and handling As mentioned above, the IM350+ is a lighter nail gun than the IM360XI. There isn’t much in it – half a kilogram, in fact (3.3kg vs 3.8kg) – but it’s lighter nonetheless. You may think half a kilogram doesn’t mean much, but it has a huge impact on the levels of vibration both emit. The vibration value in metres per second squared for the IM350+ is 2.6kg, whereas on the IM360XI it’s 3.9kg. That’s quite the difference in kickback. The IM350+ is also smaller than the IM360XI, which makes sense given the weight difference. The IM350+ is 370 x 305 x 110mm, while the IM360XI is 381 x 328 x 127mm. There’s also quite a difference in noise, too. The IM350+ is quieter than the IM360XI, with the sound level of the IM350+ being 89 dB (A), compared to 96 dB (A) for the IM360XI. Taking everything into account then, the IM350+ is easier to handle, lighter, quieter and doesn’t vibrate as much. Winner: IM350+ Power and performance While the IM360XI isn’t as light or compact as the IM350+, it certainly makes up for that in other areas. With the IM360XI, you will get 1250 shots from each gas cell. By contrast, the IM350+ will give you 1100, so you get 150 extra shots with the IM360XI. Most impressively though, you will get 13,000 shots per battery charge with the IM360XI. This is a huge upgrade on the IM350+, which will give you 9000 shots per battery charge. The IM360XI is also significantly more powerful than the IM350+. In terms of impact force per shot, the IM360XI will give you 105 joules, while the IM350+ will give you 82. As far as power-to-weight goes then, the IM360 really does pack a huge punch. There is a slight caveat, however. The magazine capacity for the IM360XI is 47 nails, whereas on the IM350+, it’s 55 nails. Despite that though, the IM360XI is head and shoulders above the IM350+ when it comes to power and performance. Winner: IM360XI Technology, nails and cost Nail gun technology Given the IM360XI is a much newer model, there’s no surprise that it comes with a few gadgets that the IM350+ doesn’t have. Aside from the obligatory on/off switch, both also come with a rafter and belt hook. Where they differ though, is that the IM360 has a battery and fuel gauge, in addition to a Start & Go sensor. The Start & Go sensor is essentially a power-saving tool, as it turns the battery off if there hasn’t been any movement for 60 seconds. This is great for conserving battery life. The battery and fuel gauge is very useful as it tells you exactly how much gas and juice is left in your cell and battery respectively. For something so simple, it’s odd that the IM350+ doesn’t have this function. Naturally, this leads to some unpleasant surprises as your IM350+ can suddenly stop working due to the battery or gas cell running out. This is at least prevented with the IM360, allowing you more control over the nail gun. The nails themselves Moving onto nails and as stated earlier, they are rather different. The IM350+ only takes clipped or D head screws, which allows the user to stack them closer together. The IM360XI meanwhile, only takes full-sized roundhead screws. It is crucial to note that you can’t swap them over – IM350+ nails will not work with the IM360XI and vice versa. On average, IM360XI nails are around £4-8 cheaper per pack than IM350+ nails. As an example, the nail/fuel pack straight shank 3.1 x 90mm for the IM360XI list price is £71.92 after VAT. The nail/fuel pack smooth shank 90 x 3.1mm nails for the IM350+ however, has a list price of £79.96 after VAT. Despite the nails being cheaper for the IM360 though, there’s a good chance the contractor-supplied nails for a job are for the IM350+. This is because the IM350+ is still hugely popular, so the natural assumption is that it is being used for the project. Cost of each nail gun As for the cost of the nail gun itself, it’s a dead heat. Both list prices are exactly the same – £527.99 after VAT. You can purchase the IM350+ here or the IM360XI here. Technology winner – IM360XI Nail cost winner – IM360XI Product cost winner – draw The IM350+ - who is it right for? There is a reason why the IM350+ is so popular among carpenters and even with the IM360 being on the market, that won’t change. It’s very easy to use, the nails for it are more accessible, it’s light and mobile – there are a lot of pros for using it. It all depends on how you work. If you like something light, reliable and doesn’t kick back despite having some power behind it, this is perfect. It’s very compact, it isn’t as loud and it’ll let you get the job done quickly. The IM360XI – who is it right for? Equally, if you want something with more punch, then the IM360 is the best fit for you. It does everything that the IM350+ can do and does it better. There’s more capacity, more shots per charge and cell and more power. This comes at a cost of being heavier, louder and with more vibration, but it’s also more efficient thanks to its technology. It’s amazing how something so simple can be such a huge point of difference, but being able to see how much charge/gas you have left is very important. What to choose? Ultimately, this depends on preference. There’s no doubt the IM360XI is a better nail gun, but it’s also not as easy to handle as the IM350+. Also, the accessibility point is something to consider. It would be very annoying, to put it mildly, to turn up to a job with an IM360XI and find there are only IM350+ nails supplied. In truth, both are outstanding products. Paslode has essentially taken a great nail gun and found a way to make it better. It doesn’t mean the old one is suddenly bad, as both will be a huge asset for any project. You are now armed with the information to make an informed decision based on your preference, though. And knowing this information, you can make a decision that’s best for your purposes and needs. If you would like to speak to an advisor about our Paslode range, you can do so here. Equally, you can buy the IM350+ here or the IM360XI here. If you are after the nails themselves, you can find those here.

01

Sep

Where does Multifix deliver to?

Not having what you need can be disastrous and can lead to project delays and idle labour on site. As such, it’s imperative that when you’re ordering supplies, you know that they will turn up on time and when they say your delivery will arrive. At Multifix, delivery reliability is one of our priorities. We have our own fleet of drivers and vehicles to deliver your goods and have a 99.3% delivery success rate. 75% of our orders are on-site before 12pm midday. In addition, you can track your delivery via the portal and our driver will call you shortly before they are on-site to let you know they’ve arrived. We’re not in the business of just dumping your parcel and leaving; we require a signature on all deliveries and take a picture to prove it’s turned up. But, where does Multifix deliver to? That is the number one question we are asked and to help answer it, we have compiled a full list of where our vans will go for you. You can either scroll down and browse or press Ctrl and F at the same time (Cmd and F if you’re on a Mac) and type in your postcode to check. If you do not see your postcode or part of the world on the list, we can arrange delivery by courier to anywhere outside of our delivery routes. We are mainly south/southeastern based, so anything north of the Midlands and west of Swindon is probably out of bounds for our delivery drivers. However, we are always looking to expand our reach. Therefore, keep an eye on this page if and when we do so, as we will update it accordingly. Equally, if you can’t see your postcode but can see one very near you, please get in touch and we’ll see what we can do! You can find out how to contact us here. Bedfordshire Arlesey (SG15) Bedford (MK40, MK41, MK32, MK43, MK44, MK45) Biggleswade (SG18) Dunstable (LU5, LU6) Henlow (SG16) Leighton Buzzard (LU7) Luton (LU1, LU2, LU3, LU4) Sandy (SG19) Shefford (SG17) Berkshire Ascot (SL5) Bracknell (RG12, RG42) Crowthorne (RG45) Hungerford (RG17) Maidenhead (SL6) Newbury (RG14, RG20) Reading (RG7, RG8, RG10) Slough (SL1, SL2, SL3) Thatcham (RG18, RG19) Windsor (SL4) Wokingham (RG40, RG41) Bristol Bristol (BS1, BS2, BS3, BS4, BS5, BS6, BS7, BS8, BS9, BS10, BS11, BS13, BS14, BS15, BS16, BS20, BS30, BS31, BS32, BS34, BS36, BS37, BS39, BS40, BS41, BS48, BS49) Buckinghamshire Amersham (HP6, HP7) Aylesbury (HP17, HP18, HP19, HP20, HP21, HP22) Beaconsfield (HP9) Bourne End (SL8) Buckingham (MK18) Chalfont St. Giles (HP8) Chesham (HP5) Gerrards Cross (SL9) Great Missenden (HP16) High Wycombe (HP10, HP11, HP12, HP13, HP14, HP15) Iver (SL0) Marlow (SL7) Milton Keynes (MK1, MK2, MK3, MK4, MK5, MK6, MK7, MK8, MK9, MK10, MK11, MK12, MK13, MK14, MK15, MK17, MK19) Newport Pagnell (MK16) Olney (MK46) Princes Risborough (HP22, HP27) Tring (HP23) East Anglia Aldeburgh (IP15) Attleborough (NR17) Beccles (NR34) Brandon (IP27) Bungay (NR35) Bury St. Edmunds (IP28, IP29, IP30, IP31, IP32, IP33) Cambridge (CB1, CB2, CB3, CB4, CB5, CB21, CB23, CB24, CB25) Chatteris (PE16) Diss (IP21, IP22) Downham Market (PE38) Ely (CB6, CB7) Eye (IP21, IP23) Felixstowe (IP11) Halesworth (IP19) Haverhill (CB9) Huntingdon (PE26, PE28, PE29) Ipswich (IP1, IP2, IP3, IP4, IP5, IP6, IP7, IP8, IP9, IP10) King’s Lynn (PE33) Leiston (IP16) March (PE15) Newmarket (CB8) Norwich (NR1, NR2, NR3, NR4, NR5, NR6, NR7, NR8, NR9, NR13, NR14, NR15, NR16, NR18) Peterborough (PE1, PE2, PE3, PE4, PE5, PE6, PE7, PE8) Saffron Walden (CB10, CB11) Saxmundham (IP17) Southwold (IP18) St. Ives (PE27) St. Neotts (PE19) Stamford (PE9) Stowmarket (IP14) Sudbury (CO10) Swaffham (PE37) Thetford (IP24, IP25, IP26) Wisbech (PE13, PE14) Woodbridge (IP12, IP13) Essex Basildon (SS13, SS14, SS15, SS16) Benfleet (SS7) Billericay (CM11, CM12) Bishop’s Stortford (CM22, CM23) Braintree (CM7, CM77) Brentwood (CM13, CM14, CM15) Buckhurst Hill (IG9) Bures (CO8) Burnham-on-Crouch (CM0) Canvey Island (SS8) Chelmsford (CM1, CM2, CM3) Chigwell (IG7) Clacton-on-Sea (CO15, CO16) Colchester (CO1, CO2, CO3, CO4, CO5, CO6, CO7) Dagenham (RM8, RM9, RM10) Dunmow (CM6, CM7) Epping (CM16) Frinton-on-Sea (CO13) Grays (RM16, RM17, RM20) Halstead (CO9) Harlow (CM17, CM18, CM19, CM20) Harwich (CO12) Hockley (SS5) Hornchurch (RM11, RM12) Ilford (RM6) Ingatestone (CM4) Leigh-on-Sea (SS9) Loughton (IG10) Ongar (CM5) Maldon (CM9) Manningtree (CO11) Purfleet (RM19) Rainham (RM13) Rayleigh (SS6) Rochford (SS4) Romford (RM1, RM2, RM3, RM4, RM5, RM6, RM7) Sawbridgeworth (CM21) Southend-on-Sea (SS1, SS2, SS3, SS99) Southminster (CM0) South Ockendon (RM15) Stansted (CM24) Stanford-le-Hope (SS17) Tilbury (RM18) Waltham Abbey (EN9) Walton-on-the-Naze (CO14) Westcliff-on-Sea (SS0, SS1) Wickford (SS11, SS12) Witham (CM8) Gloucestershire Badminton (GL9) Cirencester (GL7) Fairford (GL7) Lechlade (GL7) Tetbury (GL8) Wotton-under-Edge (GL12) Hampshire Alresford (SO24) Bognor Regis (PO21, PO22) Brockenhurst (SO42) Chichester (PO18, PO19, PO20) Eastleigh (SO50, SO53) Emsworth (PO10) Fareham (PO14, PO15, PO16, PO17) Fleet (GU51, GU52) Gosport (PO12, PO13) Havant (PO9) Hayling Island (PO11) Hook (RG27, RG29) Lee-on-the-Solent (PO12, PO13) Lymington (SO41) Lyndhurst (SO40, SO43) Portsmouth (PO1, PO2, PO3, PO6, PO24) Romsey (SO51) Southampton (SO14, SO15, SO16, SO17, SO18, SO19, SO30, SO31, SO32, SO45, SO52) Southsea (PO4, PO5) Stockbridge (SO20) Waterlooville (PO7, PO8) Winchester (SO21, SO22, SO23, SO25) Hertfordshire Baldock (SG7) Berkhamsted (HP4) Borehamwood (WD6) Broxbourne (EN10) Buntingford (SG9) Bushey (WD23) Harpenden (AL5) Hatfield (AL9, AL10) Hemel Hempstead (HP1, HP2, HP3) Hertford (SG13, SG14) Hitchin (SG4, SG5, SG6) Hoddesdon (EN11) Kings Langley (WD5) Knebworth (SG3) Much Haddam (SG10) Potters Bar (EN6) Radlett (WD7) Rickmansworth (WD3) Royston (SG8) St Albans (AL1, AL2, AL3, AL4) Stevenage (SG1, SG2) Waltham Cross (EN7, EN8) Ware (SG11, SG12) Watford (WD17, WD18, WD19, WD24, WD25) Welwyn (AL6) Welwyn Garden City (AL7, AL8) Kent Ashford (TN23, TN24, TN25, TN26, TN27) Aylesford (ME20) Birchington (CT7) Broadstairs (CT10) Bromley (BR1, BR2) Canterbury (CT1, CT2, CT3, CT4) Chatham (ME4, ME5) Cranbrook (TN17, TN18) Crowborough (TN6) Dartford (DA1, DA2, DA4) Deal (CT14) Dover (CT15, CT16, CT17) Edenbridge (TN8) Etchingham (TN19) Faversham (ME13) Folkestone (CT18, CT19, CT20) Gillingham (ME7, ME8) Gravesend (DA11, DA12, DA13) Greenhithe (DA9) Hartfield (TN7) Heathfield (TN21) Herne Bay (CT6) Hythe (CT21) Longfield (DA3) Margate (CT9) Maidstone (ME14, ME15, ME16, ME17, ME18) Mayfield (TN20) New Romney (TN28) Orpington (BR5, BR6) Queenborough (ME11) Ramsgate (CT11, CT12) Rochester (ME1, ME2, ME3) Romney Marsh (TN29) Sandwich (CT13) Sevenoaks (TN13, TN14, TN15) Sheerness (ME12) Sittingbourne (ME9, ME10) Snodland (ME6) Swanscombe (DA10) Swanley (BR8) Tenterden (TN30) Tonbridge (TN9, TN10, TN11, TN12) Tunbridge Wells (TN1, TN2, TN3, TN4) Wadhurst (TN2, TN5) Westerham (TN16) Westgate-on-Sea (CT8) West Malling (ME6, ME19) Whitstable (CT5) Uckfield (TN22) London Barking (IG11) Barnet (EN4, EN5) Beckenham (BR3) Belvedere (DA17) Bexley (DA5) Bexleyheath (DA6, DA7) Brentford (TW8) Chislehurst (BR7) Coulsdon (CR5) Croydon (CR0, CR9) East London (E1, E2, E3, E4, E5, E6, E7, E8, E9, E10, E11, E12, E13, E14, E15, E16, E17, E18, E20, EC1, EC2, EC3, EC4) Edgware (HA8) Enfield (EN1, EN2, EN3) Erith (DA8, DA18) Feltham (TW13, TW14) Greenford (UB5, UB6, UB18) Hampton (TW12) Harrow (HA1, HA2, HA3) Hayes (UB3, UB4) Hounslow (TW3, TW4, TW5, TW6) Ilford (IG1, IG2, IG3, IG4, IG5, IG6) Isleworth (TW7) Kenley (CR8) Mitcham (CR4) North London (N1, N2, N3, N4, N5, N6, N7, N8, N9, N10, N11, N12, N13, N14, N15, N16, N17, N18, N19. N20, N21, N22, NW1, NW2, NW3, NW4, NW5, NW6, NW7, NW8, NW9, NW10, NW11) Northolt (UB5) Northwood (HA6) Pinner (HA5) Purley (CR8) Richmond (TW9, TW10) Ruislip (HA4) Sidcup (DA14, DA15) South Croydon (CR2) South London (SE,1, SE2, SE3, SE4, SE5, SE6, SE7, SE8, SE9, SE10, SE11, SE12, SE13, SE14, SE15, SE16, SE17, SE18, SE19, SE20, SE21, SE22, SE23, SE24, SE25, SE26, SE27, SE28, SW1, SW2, SW3, SW4, SW5, SW6, SW7, SW8, SW9, SW10, SW11, SW12, SW13, SW14, SW15, SW16, SW17, SW18, SW19, SW20, SW1X) Southall (UB1, UB2, UB3) Stanmore (HA7) Thornton Heath (CR7) Twickenham (TW1, TW2) Welling (DA16) Wembley (HA0, HA9) West Drayton (UB7, UB8) West London (W1, W2, W3, W4, W5, W6, W7, W8, W9, W10, W11, WC1, WC2) West Wickham (BR4) Woodford Green (IG8) Upminster (RM14) Uxbridge (UB8, UB9, UB10, UB11) Oxfordshire Abingdon (OX13, OX14) Bampton (OX18) Bicester (OX25, OX26, OX27) Burford (OX18) Carterton (OX20) Chinnor (OX39) Didcot (OX11) Faringdon (SN7) Henley-on-Thames (RG9) Kidlington (OX5) Oxford (OX1, OX2, OX3, OX4, OX33, OX44) Thame (OX9) Wallingford (OX10) Wantage (OX12) Witney (OX28, OX29) Woodstock (OX20) Somerset Banwell (BS29) Bath (BA1, BA2) Clevedon (BS21) Weston-Super-Mare (BS22, BS23, BS24) Winscombe (BS25) Surrey Addlestone (KT15) Aldershot (GU11, GU12) Alton (GU34) Ashford (TW15) Ashtead (KT21) Bagshot (GU19) Betchworth (RH3) Bordon (GU35) Camberley (GU15, GU16, GU17) Caterham (CR3) Chertsey (KT16) Chessington (KT9) Cobham (KT11) Cranleigh (GU6) Dorking (RH4, RH5) East Molesey (KT8) Egham (TW20) Esher (KT10) Epsom (KT17, KT18, KT19) Farnborough (GU14) Farnham (GU9, GU10) Gatwick (RH6) Godalming (GU7, GU8) Godstone (RH9) Guildford (GU1, GU2, GU3, GU4, GU5, GU13) Hindhead (GU26, GU27) Horley (RH6) Kingston Upon Thames (KT1, KT2) Leatherhead (KT22, KT23, KT24) Lightwater (GU18) Liphook (GU30) Lingfield (RH7) Liss (GU33) Oxted (RH8) Petersfield (GU31, GU32) Petworth (GU28) Midhurst (GU29) New Malden (KT3) Redhill (RH1) Reigate (RH2) Sandhurst (GU47) Shepperton (TW17) Staines-upon-Thames (TW18, TW19) Sunbury-on-Thames (TW16) Surbiton (KT5, KT6) Tadworth (KT20) Thames Ditton (KT7) Teddington (TW11) Virginia Water (GU25) Walton-on-Thames (KT12) Warlingham (CR6) West Byfleet (KT14) West Molesey (KT8) Weybridge (KT13) Whyteleafe (CR3) Windlesham (GU20) Woking (GU21, GU22, GU23, GU24) Worcester Park (KT4) Yateley (GU46) Sussex Arundel (BN18) Battle (TN33) Bexhill-on-Sea (TN39, TN40) Billingshurst (RH14) Brighton (BN1, BN2, BN4, BN41, BN42, BN45) Burgess Hill (RH15) Crawley (RH10, RH11) Eastbourne (BN20, BN21, BN22, BN23) East Grinstead (RH19) Forest Row (RH18) Hailsham (BN27) Hassocks (BN6) Hastings (TN34, TN35) Haywards Heath (RH16, RH17) Henfield (BN5) Horsham (RH12, RH13) Hove (BN3) Lancing (BN15) Littlehampton (BN16, BN17) Lewes (BN7, BN8) Newhaven (BN9) Peacehaven (BN10) Pevensey (BN24) Polegate (BN26) Pulborough (RH20) Robertsbridge (TN32) Rye (TN31) Seaford (BN25) Shoreham-by-Sea (BN43) Steyning (BN44) St. Leonards-on Sea (TN37, TN38) Winchelsea (TN36) Worthing (BN11, BN12, BN13, BN14) Wiltshire Bradford-upon-Avon (BA15) Calne (SN11) Chippenham (SN14, SN15) Corsham (SN13, SN15) Devizes (SN10) Malmesbury (SN16) Marlborough (SN8) Melksham (SN12) Pewsey (SN9) Swindon (SN1, SN2, SN3, SN4, SN5, SN6, SN25, SN26) Trowbridge (BA14)

08

Sep

Comparing the benefits of fully and partially threaded screws

When it comes to picking between a fully or partially threaded screw, you’ll know that it’s normally one or the other. Both have their benefits and flaws, so it’s important that whatever one you choose is the right one for the project at hand. But what exactly do they do? What makes them different, besides the obvious? What do they do differently? That’s what we’re going to answer for you in this article. Multifix supplies a wide range of screws, so we will take a look at what both of them do, what their pros and cons are and how they differ. Come the end of the article, you’ll have everything you need to know which screw is right for your upcoming project! Fully threaded vs. partially threaded – what are the key differences? As you can tell by the name, the main difference is the screw itself. A fully-threaded screw will have a thread going all the way to the tip of the screw head. It is also made up of three parts – the head, shaft and tip. Meanwhile, a partially threaded screw will have a thread about half the length of the screw. The remaining part of the screw is a completely smooth section, which helps with clamping (more on that later). Like the fully-threaded screw, it is made up of a head, shaft and tip, but the shaft is both threaded and unthreaded. Pros of the fully-threaded screw With a fully-threaded screw, you can drill straight into the material and the surface it’s being drilled into won’t split. When it comes to working with wood, this is especially important to note. This is down to the way the screw is designed and in addition, they generally come with a self-tapping tip, which ensures the hold. Because the thread goes all the way to the top, fully-threaded screws are a one-and-done type of screw, in that it shouldn’t come loose in the future. Pros of the partially threaded screw What makes a partially threaded screw so useful is that it guarantees a better fit. Basically, the threaded part of the screw only goes into the bottom piece, so it pulls it in tighter and clamps it down better. This is made possible because of the smooth part of the screw. As there is only part of the screw that has a thread, the thread hones in on the bottom piece, with the smooth part flowing through to keep things tight. Effectively having a level of auto-clamping is a huge boost. Sometimes, it’s just not possible to be able to clamp two pieces of material together with a vice. Cons of fully-threaded screw The main con to a fully-threaded screw is that it is very prone to jacking. Jacking is when the threads in both materials become separated. The thread in the top part of the material holds it up, thus making it impossible to clamp properly. Unless both materials are physically clamped down with a vice, there is a high risk that a fully-threaded screw will cause jacking. As mentioned above, sometimes it isn’t easy or possible to have two materials physically clamped together. If you’re working in a tight space, this is something you need to consider. Cons of a partially threaded screw Getting sizing right is key when it comes to partially threaded screws as if you get it wrong, you run the risk of splitting the material. If any part of the smooth side of the screw goes into the material you’re drilling into, the top material will likely bulge or split. This is because the screw would’ve gone too deep. As such, you’ll have to make sure that the screw is measured properly before use, which can be a drawback depending on what materials you’re working with. Choosing between the two There are clear differences and strengths between both screws, but whatever one you pick is going to depend on what project you’re working on. If you’ve got a lot of space and can use a vice to secure materials together, then a fully-threaded screw won’t let you down. You can also provide a lot of long-term security by having one fitted properly, too. If things are a bit tighter space-wise, or if you just want a better fit, then partially-threaded screws should be your go-to. Just be sure to make sure that your partially threaded screws are the right size before you use them, if you so choose to go down that route. If you would like some further information on the type of screws we provide, or some extra clarification, you can reach our expert team here. Equally, if you need something now, you can see the variety of screws we stock at Multifix here.

04

Aug

Multifix’s PPE: Enhancing safety and protection

PPE is naturally a hugely vital part of the job. Whether it’s a hi-vis, a helmet or eye protection, in order to work in the construction sector, you’re going to need PPE. It can’t just be any PPE, either. PPE such as helmets, head protection and gloves all need to be at an EN standard; otherwise, you won’t be deemed safe when on a site. One issue we keep hearing about is finding a reliable provider of PPE, to help you with your projects and tasks. This is where we come in. By no means are we suggesting that we are PPE specialists, but we do have a lot of PPE in stock, ready for immediate dispatch, to help you get the job done. Our PPE comes from a number of manufacturers and is professionally graded. We can also get it to you as soon as possible, thanks to our fleet of dedicated drivers. To give you an idea of what we have in stock, here is a rundown of the PPE that we have available. Unbranded helmets and hi-vis The primary form of PPE in the workplace is either a hi-vis or a helmet – and we have lots of both in supply. The only caveat to this is that it is all unbranded, but if that isn’t an issue, then we have everything and more that you’ll need. Be it orange or yellow hi-vis waistcoats, waterproof bomber jackets with a hood or orange hi-vis trousers, we can have you fully kitted out. As far as safety helmets go, we stock these in a number of different colours. Our helmets come in an assortment of colours with additional add-ons, if needed. Boots No matter if you’re a size four or a size 12, we’ll have a pair of steel-capped boots for you. Our range of boots comes in either black or honey leather, so there is some slight choice in colour. It’s important to work in comfort, but also to work knowing your feet are safe in the event of anything happening. Gloves and sleeves Whether it’s rigger gloves, builder’s gloves, or just disposable gloves, we have you covered. We offer gloves either as a pair or in large boxes up to 100, depending on what it is you’re after and even have some speciality gloves in our collection as well. Also, except for our disposable gloves or household gloves, every one of our gloves is rated at EN388. We try to have all our gloves in small, medium, large or extra-large. In addition, we also offer an EN388-rated 350mm Kevlar sleeve with a thumbhole, to fully protect your arm when in the workplace. Eye and ear protection It’s important to protect your senses when in the workplace, which is why we also have a number of options for your ears and eyes. We stock EN 352-2 graded overhead ear defenders, as well as your generic earplugs. We have corded hi-vis earplugs or disposable ones that come in a box of 200. As for eyes, we stock a number of safety goggles and safety specs. Respirators and face masks Finally, our respirator and face mask options certainly go from one extreme to the other. Whether it’s a three-ply disposable face mask in a box of 50 or a JSP Powercap Infinity respirator, we’ll have something for your needs. We also stock FFP2 valved masks, FFP3 masks and also a number of half-masks, including the JSP Force 8. As uncomfortable as they can be, we also supply face fit tests, which can be essential depending on what mask or respirator you choose. That is a full rundown of the type of PPE that we can offer you. If you are seeking a reliable supplier of PPE, we are more than happy to assist you in any way we can with your projects. If you would like to find out more about the PPE offerings we have here, or our delivery service, please get in touch with us here.

06

Sep

Five ways the Multifix customer portal can solve critical construction issues

Placing orders can be a stressful experience for Buyers and Site Managers alike. If time is of the essence, an order taking ages is far from helpful. Waiting around for a quote because there’s no price information for what you need is also very annoying. On top of that, there might also be no product description, so you’re taking a shot in the dark. All while the clock is ticking, with Contractors breathing down your neck asking for regular updates. It doesn’t have to be this way. One of the reasons why Multifix has been going strong for 30 years and counting is because we get this. We understand these pain points and the knock-on effect they can cause. It’s the reason why our core values as a company focus on doing what’s right for you; “save you time, make life easy.” It’s also the reason why we’ve designed our customer portal the way we have. We want to make your transactions as seamless as possible, leaving you with less to worry about and with more time to get the job done. We have a lot of customers who prefer to conduct their business with us over the phone – and that’s OK. We love the interactions we have with you. But what if we told you there’s an easier way? A quicker way? A less stressful way? In this article, we will show you five ways our customer portal can simplify things for you and improve your workplace productivity. 1. It’ll help you beat tight deadlines While most planning is done on a day-by-day basis, it can be a problem when you think you’ve got all you need and then suddenly, you don’t. Whether it’s a miscalculation or bad luck, finding yourself close to the end of a project without having everything to finish it is irritating. However, with just a few clicks, our online portal can help you with that. Available at any time of day, you can pick out whatever you need and rest easy knowing your much-needed items are in safe hands. With next-day delivery as standard, you have the power to lift a huge weight from your shoulders. Also, thanks to our ‘Quick Order’ function for users, you can set your most commonly used products as your favourites, making it even faster to order. 2. You have full visibility of the cost Budgeting can be difficult. Any delay or staff issue has the potential to hurt your pocket and balancing that out against what you need to order isn’t always easy. What makes this task even harder is when you go to order something…and there’s no price. In fact, there’s no price for anything. You then ask for a quote for what you need, wait for them to put it together and bemoan how compromised your position is. If the quote comes through and it’s too high, with time running out, it certainly leaves you in a spot. With our portal, there are no surprises with our prices. You can see all of them, for whatever product you want, whenever you like. And what’s more, there are no hidden surprises or secret charges. When you shop with us through our portal, your final price will be exactly what you expect it to be – as it should be. 3. You get what you need when you order Not everyone in construction comes from a construction background and sometimes that shows. This tends to be more noticeable in the admin departments for Site Managers, especially with specifics. As an example, say you’ve got a job where you’re using a Paslode IM350+. You’re running low on your 2.8 x 51mm ring shank nails and need some more. You ask admin to get you some and the next day, you get them, but they’re for the IM360 instead, rendering them useless. Now, this can of course come down to a lack of communication from your side and in this instance, it’s not entirely the admin’s fault. They’ve put in an order for the exact product, but because there was no description, they couldn’t see the difference and maybe thought it was a generic nail. Thankfully, those ordering from our portal will hopefully believe that’s a thing of the past. With full product descriptions for everything we stock, it’s very difficult to get something wrong. Taking the example of the screws, the admin team will go back to the site manager and ask for what size, making sure it’s the right order. Given how much confusion can wreak havoc on a site, our portal product descriptions are designed to minimise that as much as possible. 4. It can manage and control all of your orders If you’re a Carpenter, you’re probably used to your phone going off every 20 seconds or so. Whether it’s a Purchaser or a Site Manager reaching out to you, you’ll know they tend to have a lot of requests! This can be time-consuming and frustrating. It’s also very annoying when you have an order placed and then one of your team goes, “Sorry mate, can you add on one of these as well?” Well, to save you from bombardment and to prevent this, we have a requisitions section on our portal. This enables your team to order without bothering you, but gives you the power to sign off or not. All the hours spent combing through WhatsApps, texts, emails…gone. With a requisition order, someone on your team will make a provisional order, you’ll be notified by email and then you can decide whether to place it. This makes your projects much more streamlined and on top of that, will reduce your screen time on your phone. 5. It adds accountability There’s a good chance you’ve led a job, ordered what your crew asked for…and noticed a lot of it mysteriously went missing. Your team of external workers will all be professional, but everyone is prone to mistakes. In their case, it could be they’ve opened some nails and left them carelessly, they’ve been run over by a forklift and now can’t be used. Wastage is a big issue for any site and one that burns a hole in your pocket. Thanks to our requisitions section within the portal though, you can try and limit it. This prevents workers from buying whatever they want, which offers buyers a lot of peace of mind. Should you want to, you can even hide pricing if you don’t want your workers to see what things cost when they submit their order forms. As such, you have more power and can have more accountability with your ordering and your projects, which can only be a good thing. But, you don’t have to use it We know that old habits die hard. We also know that the mantra, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” is largely correct. And for those who used to order over the phone – and those that still do – we, of course, can facilitate that. Our phone lines are still going to be open for you if you need advice, want to talk about delivery options or just prefer to order over the phone. While the portal can do everything you could want in terms of an ordering perspective, it can’t give you that human touch. It won’t be able to have a chat with you, or ask how things are going, which can feel robotic to some. As such, we understand that phoning us can be better for you. You can find out all of our contact info here and we’ll be delighted to take your call. By no means are we saying that the portal is perfect and we have identified a number of solutions to make it better for you. We are keeping these close to our chests for now, but we are determined to make it as streamlined and helpful as possible. After reading this article though, we hope you’ll agree that moving to the portal is the way forward. The five pain points we’ve identified can impact anyone, but by letting us help you with our portal, they can be consigned to the past. If you would like to give it a try, you can sign up for our portal here.

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Protective Safety Gloves Lightweight PU Coated EN388 Cut 1 - Large (Pair)

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1 litre PVA Wood Glue Multifix 330 D3 Water Resistant. (Each)

Price: £5.99 ex. VATinc. VAT £7.19

Gaffer Tape 50mm (2") Black Cloth Gaffa - 50 Metre Roll (Each)

Price: £3.53 ex. VATinc. VAT £4.24

Heavy Duty Rubble Sack 20" x 32" 400g/100micron - pack of 100 (Pack 100)

Price: £20.49 ex. VATinc. VAT £24.59

Paslode 300271 Nail/Fuel Cell Pack Galv Brads 16 x 38mm - Angled (Each)

Price: £25.51 ex. VATinc. VAT £30.61

Protection Sheet Double Skin Black Fluted 2.4 x 1.2m x 2mm Polypropylene (Each)

Price: £4.13 ex. VATinc. VAT £4.96

750ml Soudafoam B3 Gun Grade Filler Foam (Each)

Price: £6.90 ex. VATinc. VAT £8.28

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