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Article
Is an impact driver the right tool for you?

An impact driver can be a valuable tool for those in the trade, but it isn’t as simple as picking it up and then having all your problems solved.   For all the positives that having one brings, a lot needs to be considered before you use one just for the sake of using one.   In this article, we will weigh up the pros and cons of using an impact driver, which will hopefully highlight its best practices. What are the pros of using an impact driver?  It’s worth noting that there are many positives to using an impact driver, hence why they are seen as a fundamental tool.   They are hugely efficient as they are so quick, saving ample time in the process. It’s just as simple as lining up the screw and drilling it through.   Naturally, this is extremely helpful for large projects. All impact drivers have a high degree of torque, which can also help when drilling screws into tougher materials.   They are also suitable for use with a wide range of screws, which makes them very important as that versatility cannot be understated. They can also be used for driving screws into a variety of materials, such as wood, plastic and metal.   Finally, they are very compact. They are lightweight and easy to move about, which can be very helpful if you’re working in tight spaces.   That’s a lot of pros, but what about the cons?   The main cons for using impact drivers come maybe being too eager to use the tool in the first place, which is why a degree of common sense needs to be had.   For example, it’s very possible that you can over-tighten or even snap a screw by using an impact driver, due to the power behind it. As such, you need to be fully aware of what screws you are using.   It’s also possible that you could strip the heads of the screws, which is especially likely if the tool isn’t used properly, has the wrong head in or is used for driving screws into soft material.  We have put together a video that explains how all three of these possibilities can happen, which you can see below.   So is an impact driver right for me or not?  Generally speaking, yes. They make your life a lot easier, they can make projects go by a lot quicker and they can really boost productivity for you.   However, they must only be used where necessary given the force behind the impact driver, otherwise you’ll burn through boxes of screws.   If you would like to find out more information on impact drivers, we are happy to help. You can get in touch with us by clicking this link.  

Read more → 2 min read
Article
Apprenticeships at Multifix – the story from those involved

Cameron Duke, our Accounts Apprentice, is currently undertaking an AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) Level 2 in Accounting and has opened up about his experiences with the scheme.   How did the apprentice opportunity open up for you at Multifix?  I was at school looking for apprentice opportunities to progress in accounting and after looking at multiple websites, I noticed there was a listing for an apprentice scheme in the course I was looking to take. After that, things went from there!  What made you go for an apprenticeship instead of going to college or university?  I spoke to family members that are in an accounting role, so my uncle is a taxation specialist, while my nan and my aunt both work in accounting or finance related roles. They advised the course to take and to go through work experience as it’s more valuable than going to university.  With the courses I will partake in, I’ll come out with the same qualification that I’d have received going to university by the time I’m 21, which will hopefully be a chartership in accounting through the ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants), or the CTA (Chartered Tax Adviser).  I’ll also have no debt and I’d have six years’ worth of work experience with the same relevant qualifications.   How do you find juggling your coursework and your actual work?  It’s fine, it can be tricky at times with what’s needed from the course as it requires a lot of time and effort, but luckily I have day release once a week, which lets me focus solely on that coursework.   Multifix don’t have to do this, but they do so to try and better the course for me.   You mentioned the day release, but how else do Multifix support you on your scheme?  They fund the course and they provide the work alongside it, too. For the ACCA and CTA, which are the chartership courses I’ll look to partake in, you need three years of work experience in an accounting or finance-related role, so that helps a lot towards that.   How have you found the exams?  They’re manageable, but the pass rates do differ. I’ve passed all the exams I’ve sat and the most recent one, which was a costing exam, I achieved 95%. Overall, I’m working towards a distinction, so all is going well.   What are your personal aspirations from the apprentice scheme? The experience and knowledge can then lead to me working in practice and hopefully, I’ll eventually own my own practice. I’d love to have my own firm specialising in both taxation and audits and insurance.  What advice would you give to anyone looking for an apprenticeship?  From my own personal experience, I’ve generally found it easy to balance studying with my work. I think it has been the right choice for me, but I think people should do what’s best for them and go for it if it’s of interest to them.  

Read more → 3 min read
Article
What’s the true cost to your business of placing multiple orders?

Whether you’re buying for yourself or whether it’s on behalf of a business, it’s essential to extract the most from your purchases.   This is why the topic of ordering is always one for discussion as, depending on how you process it, it can vary in total cost.   We are frequently asked about what the average cost of an order is, but that’s a little difficult for us to answer.   The reason why it’s difficult is that there are a few variables to consider, but on average, the cost of processing an order in the UK ranges between £4 and £25.   That is according to research from the Hackett Group and from Gartner, as per Process Flows, which should give you some idea. However, the general go-to figure for the cost of an order is £50.   But why is it that much? Why does it vary so much? And how expensive can an invoice be?  £4 to £25? £50? Why is that average so different and why is the go-to fee much higher? The short answer is that the cost of actually processing an order varies from business to business, as some will go about it completely differently than others.   Some may do it manually, which can pose a whole heap of challenges, while others may use automation to process their orders.   Automation is by no means 100% risk-free, but it certainly cuts down on human error and can save time for others elsewhere.   Manual ordering can also slow things down, as bits of paper can physically be left somewhere for ages without actually being processed. This also has a cost as it can run the risk of a late payment.   What is even considered when it comes to working out an order cost? Things like payment fees, the total cost of the software involved (if there is any), the full cost of the headcount, staff time, whether it’s late or on bad supplier terms, as well as processes.   All of these things are factored in when getting an average estimate of what processing an order actually costs.   You also have to factor in things like accommodation, heating and lighting, which all sounds rather odd, but literally every part of the ordering process has to be priced up.    How to reduce the cost of ordering  Some of this cost can be offset by planning ahead and placing larger orders, which may be more of an outlay initially, but could save more down the line.  For instance, one £500 order will be a cheaper order to process than 10 x £50 orders, even though the initial outlay is more.   You can find out more about the pros and cons of larger orders vs smaller orders here, but as it is just the one order, there is a lot less to factor in to the overall cost.   What else might help?  One thing we have at Multifix to help streamline the buying process is our customer portal, which can make an impact thanks to the speed of it.  All of the important information, such as proof of delivery, invoice etc, can all be found in one place as such. To find out more about the Portal and how it can help you, click here.   Furthermore, if you would like to speak to a member of our team to discuss invoices or the Portal further, you can get in touch with us by following this link.

Read more → 3 min read
Article
Large orders v small orders – what’s better?

As people, we are prone to falling into a convenience financial trap. 30% of us, according to YouGov, are likely to prioritise a monthly payment for a service rather than paying up front, for example.   It makes sense, to some extent. Whether it’s car insurance or streaming services, it’s less noticeable for your bank account to see a small fee go out than a large one, even if you end up paying more across a year.   However, this can translate into other buying habits, too. This is especially the case when it comes to ordering what we need as and when, instead of forward planning.   But is it better to forward plan and get a large order in? Or does it make more sense to get things as and when you need them?  In this article, we will look at both options and what their respective pros and cons are.   What are the pros of ordering as and when?  The main pro to ordering as and when is the convenience aspect. If you just know what you need, you can get that without really needing to think of much else, other than getting the project done.   This also requires minimal effort, as it’s just a case of sourcing exactly what you need rather than mapping out what else you could need for a future project.   However, while you end up getting what you require, that’s about as far as the pros go when it comes to ordering as and when.   So what are the cons then?  The cons of only ordering what you need, more often than not, means that you end up placing multiple orders, when just one would’ve done.   This has a financial cost as well, as the cost of multiple invoices is going to be more than just one invoice. One £500 order will be a cheaper order to process than 10 £50 orders, even though the initial outlay is more.  As such, while the initial outlay might not seem too bad, there is a notable knock-on effect if you’re making several small orders. Additionally, depending on where you are ordering from, you may have to pay a carrier charge if your order cost is under the minimum order threshold.   What about bulk buying? What are the pros for that?  With bulk buying, you can forward plan much easier, as you will have everything you need. You order it all once, then it’s done and you don’t have to worry about it.   It also saves you money as it’s only one order to process, while it also saves you time in a sense as it’s only one delivery to factor in your day as well.   In that sense, it’s arguably more convenient to bulk buy than it is to get things as and when, because once it’s done, it’s done.   Are there any cons, though?  One of the reasons why we order as and when is because we have little time. When you bulk buy, you need to allocate some time so you can work out exactly what you need to order.   Finding this time can be problematic for some, even if the results are ultimately very good, so this can be a concern.   Also, with a big bulk order, you may have to factor into account who is going to take the items and store them away. You may need to take employees away from their tasks for a few minutes to assist.  In addition, a lack of storage on site can be a problem for some.   Deciding what’s best for you  In our opinion, we believe that bulk buying is a better option out of the two. It sets you up for longer, is only one order to process and leaves you more organised.   It also wards off the possibility of delivery fees and while there may need to be a group effort to itemise everything, it’s worth it.   However, ultimately it depends on what is best for you and your business. Maybe you prefer ordering as and when because it’s more convenient for you, but that of course comes with costs in processing multiple orders.   But, if that works for you and continues to do so, then that can only be a good thing. It’s certainly worth factoring in the benefits of bulk buying, though.   If you would like to speak to a member of our staff about as and when ordering or bulk buying, you can get in touch with us here.  

Read more → 4 min read
Article
2023 in UK construction – what changed?

As Big Ben rang out on January 1, many in the UK construction industry were happy to see the back of 2023 given the challenges it brought.   With a surge in energy prices, fluctuating fuel prices and the soaring cost of raw materials, a lot of people felt a financial pinch.   That being said, 2023 did further prove that the construction industry is determined and there are things to take from 2023 that can be hugely beneficial.   In this article, we will cast our eye back to the previous 12 months and examine what came to light during that time.   A housing downturn led to problems Perhaps the biggest issue of 2023 was the fact that interest rates skyrocketed, making life incredibly difficult for people up and down the country.   In December 2021, the interest rates were 0.1%, however by July 2023, they had shot up to a staggering 5% to combat rising prices elsewhere.   This was especially notable for those who had to remortgage, as they were discovering that their monthly rate had gone up by a huge amount. Over a million Brits saw their rates go up by £500, as per the BBC. Those on fixed-term mortgages weren’t safe either, with the average rate of a two-year mortgage going up to 6.7% - which was a 15-year high.   The consequence of this was that as homes became unaffordable to many, people stopped buying. And if people aren’t buying homes, then there’s no point in building them, which was a hammer blow to the construction industry.   As per the BCIS, the ONS showed that new private housing work was down 2.8% in Q3 2023 compared to Q2 2023. More startlingly, it was 13.4% down on Q3 2022.   In addition, according to Barbour ABI, the amount of construction contracts in 2023 dropped from £80.4bn to £69.2bn, which is a huge drop.   The worry is that things will get worse before they get better on that front, with the BCIS believing that we won’t see significant growth again until 2025.   The impact on construction firms  4,287 construction firms became insolvent between September 2022 and September 2023, which was an alarming 8.3% increase from the year before.   The knock-on effect of this is huge, as it means people are out of work and projects will be impacted as there are fewer people on hand to do them.  However, there was no recession  One of the biggest fears for construction in 2023 was that the country would go into recession, which would’ve plunged the UK further into crisis.   Thankfully however, that was avoided – albeit narrowly. As a result, while things are still looking bleak in one aspect, it isn’t the total disaster that could’ve been.   The impact of a recession could’ve seen thousands of companies go out of business, in addition to the ones that sadly did go.  It also could’ve seen projects grind to a relative halt and while there is an element of that at present, it would’ve been much worse with a recession.   However, the industry remained resilient. So, as challenging as 2023 has been, there is still something to build from as we move further into 2024.   That being said, there is an early hurdle to clear in 2024, as additional import charges are stinging companies as a direct result of the ongoing crisis in the Red Sea.  The crisis is causing a delay in goods arriving, which is because of transportation following safer routes. However, this means fuel and insurance costs have gone up for transportation companies, which is something that we all have to contend with.   Hopefully brighter times on the horizon As a result of 2023, the prospect of 2024 isn’t exactly vibrant and positive for the construction industry, but it’s far from a lost cause.  In fact, according to BCIS, just 13% of construction professionals believe that there will be a fall in workload in 2024, despite all the disruption.   The resilience shown to beat off all the threats of the recession will need to be displayed again in 2024, but the construction industry has long been known for its durability.   Hopefully, with interest rates now starting to fall, the housing situation will improve during 2024 and more projects can get up and running. That would be a huge and timely boost.   For now though, all we can do is dig in. To read more articles from Multifix about the construction industry and beyond, you can find our article library here.  

Read more → 4 min read
Article
The Multifix 2023 sustainability report

The 2023 sustainability report for Multifix is very meaningful to us, as it shows how we’ve fared and gives you transparency on how we’re doing.   Most importantly though, it also allows us to look at ourselves and find room for improvement, which is very much on the agenda for 2024.   The results – how big was our carbon footprint?  In 2023, the carbon impact of our own-van deliveries was the equivalent of 142 tonnes.  Comparing that to others in the industry, that’s around average, but we feel that we need to be able to give something back to try and offset this.   The reason for this is that 142 tonnes is quite the impact. If you turn that into cubic metres, it works out at 78,357 cubic metres of carbon that we added to the planet.   To help you try and visualise this, that is the equivalent of 696 London buses, 39 Olympic swimming pools or 16.85 Big Ben’s.  That is a lot and it’s something that we intend on doing something about, especially with the aim to help net zero.   In comparison to other companies, it’s staggering how many tonnes are being emitted. On Black Friday 2020, Hermes/Evri emitted 58,000 tonnes of carbon on that day alone. Considering we are 142 tonnes for the year, that’s very striking.   Offsetting our carbon impact  For 2024, Multifix is doing a lot more to be sustainable. As mentioned earlier, sustainability is very important to the company. However, we want to do more.   Our plan for 2024 is to start offsetting our operational output, which we are looking to do in several different ways.   One way of doing this is by planting trees, but we are also going to be looking at helping carbon clean-ups, assist with restoring habitats and boosting renewable energy, amongst other things.   Rather than just commit to one thing, such as planting trees, we want to impact many different areas and not just for logistical reasons.   The Earth only has so much land to plant trees, so it makes sense to do other things, but we are very excited to get stuck into numerous projects that we can assist with from an environmental aspect.   You can find out more about what projects we are getting involved with here. An eye on the future  By committing to offsetting part of our carbon impact, we are hopeful that we will be making an impact not only in 2024, but for years to come.   The net-zero goal for construction is an important one and one that we take seriously. It is also one of the reasons why we have been so transparent with our sustainability figures.   The quest for improvement never stops on our end and we are certain that when it comes to 2024’s reports, they will make for much greater reading.   To see what else we are doing from a sustainability perspective, click here.

Read more → 3 min read
Article
Tackling carbon with Ecologi in 2024

When it comes to gunning for net zero, the UK construction industry is very much doing its bit and constantly striving to hit its targets.   At Multifix, we have always had an eye on being better from an environmental perspective, but in light of the 2023 Multifix sustainability report, which you can read here, we have accepted that we could do more.   As such, we have decided to join forces with environmental organisation Ecologi to offset some of our carbon footprint, which is a very exciting development for us.  This has allowed us to get involved with several fantastic projects, which not only allows us to give back, but also steps up our efforts to be more sustainable.  In this article, we will go through three of the projects that we are contributing towards with Ecologi, all of which helps make us more climate-positive.   Solar PV electricity generation in Indonesia   When it comes to a global share of using fossil fuels, Indonesia ranks fourth in the world, making up a staggering 6% of the world’s total use.  As such, a project located in Pringgabaya, which is an island of Lombok in Indonesia, is tapping into the clear potential of using renewable energy in the country.   The aim is to start displacing fossil fuels and replacing them with cleaner energy sources, such as solar power, to reduce carbon emissions.   There is a total installed capacity of 42 MW in place at present, which is spread across four different solar installations.   Not only has the project brought about 69 local jobs, but it has also brought with it 18 community development activities.   If all goes to plan and by providing electricity to go to the grid, this project alone could offset 34,000 tonnes of carbon each year.   Fuel-efficient cookstoves in Uganda It is estimated that a third of the world is still cooking using dangerous cooking methods, whether this be by burning charcoal, firewood or animal waste, all of which boost greenhouse gas emissions.  UpEnergy is a company based in Uganda that works in communities and areas that don’t have a lot of income flowing through them and tries to fight climate change.   One of the methods in which they do this is by their initiative Community Carbon and one of their projects is to provide families with a fuel-efficient charcoal cookstove, instead of what already exists.   These stoves can reduce daily household charcoal usage by between 45% and 55%, as a result of their improved thermal efficiency.   They can last at least five years and are also created locally, which is good for the local economy as it creates employment opportunities.   The stoves are also better for families as they are faster than the existing cooking equipment, meaning they have more free time every day. Multifix is delighted to be able to help.  Repairing water boreholes in Eritrea  Eritrea is a small country in Africa and whereas one in nine people around the globe don’t have access to clean water close to home, in Eritrea, it is basically one in five (19%).  As such, residents have to either try their luck with rivers or open wells, both of which are unsafe, or have to travel miles to find clean water.   As such, the Zoba Debub Community Boreholes project was founded for Eritrea and the aim is to give thousands of people a sustainable way of having clean water.  For those unaware, boreholes are holes that allow access to safe clean water from underground. They can be as deep as 100m, with drilling pipes being installed. Then a hand pump is fitted and that’s all there is to it.   However, most of the boreholes in Eritrea have been neglected, which means residents have been using wood fuel on stone fires to try and purify their water.  Not only is this risky, but it also releases greenhouse gas emissions from the wood. As such, the project will help people have a better way of life, while also helping the environment.   Wanting to make a difference   We wanted to step up our carbon offsetting, hence why we’ve partnered with Ecologi, but we also wanted to make a difference.   We believe that by working with Ecologi on these projects, we can go a long way towards doing that, while giving something back to the planet.   At Multifix, we are excited to see how the projects fare and find out just how much difference we can make over 12 months.   If you would like to do something with Ecologi and would like some further information, we are happy to help. You can get in contact with us by following this link.  

Read more → 4 min read
Video
Demo: The difference between tek, CSK, & self tapping screws

A demonstration on the difference between self-tap, self-dril and countersunk screws. Screws used in this video: Self drill screws: https://multifixuk.com/categories/drill-fast-tek-screws Self tap screws: https://multifixuk.com/categories/self-tapping-screws CSK screws: https://multifixuk.com/categories/zinc-countersunk

Read more → 7 min watch
Article
Hiring an apprentice as an employer - what's in it for you?

You may have seen our article explaining what budding apprentices need to know about Apprentice schemes, which you can read here.   But what about the other side of the coin? Why should employers take apprentices on? What’s in it for them, at the end of it all?  In this article, we will highlight several key things employers should take into consideration when looking to hire an apprentice, as, in our view, the pros vastly outweigh the cons.  Hopefully, by the end of this article, you will be of the same opinion, as there is a lot you can gain as an employer from having apprentices around.   You’re breathing fresh life into the industry  One of the main issues with construction in the UK is that there is such a skills shortage. According to Employment Solutions, the industry is a staggering 200,000 skilled workers down from where it needs to be.   They also claim that 20% of construction workers are in their 50’s, so there is palpable concern that we will soon reach a stage where demand vastly outweighs supply.  By taking on apprentices, you are helping to plug that gap. By giving them an opportunity to grow, you’re also giving the industry a shot in the arm that it badly needs.   With the tutelage of the experienced pros at construction firms and companies, thriving apprentices will be in good hands when it comes to progressing.   By giving them a chance too, you will earn their loyalty as they will be grateful for giving them the experience, meaning your business will be looked after well by the future generation.  You get a number of financial benefits  Taking on an apprentice can be seen as something of a risk, at least in the short term while they are still getting to grips with things, so there are things in place to counteract that.   As per gov.uk, if you have an apprentice under the age of 25 and earning less than £827 a week (£45,000 a year), you will not have to pay National Insurance Contributions when it comes to the apprentice’s salary.   However, if you have an annual bill of £3M or over, you will have to contribute 0.5% of your monthly bill to the Apprentice Levy.   This isn’t all bad though, as £15,000 of that, across the year, is deductible if you take an apprentice on.  If you do not have an annual bill of £3M or more, then you don’t get the £15,000 deduction – but, assuming you haven’t exceeded the funding band maximum, you will only have to contribute 5% to the cost of training. The government will make up the other 95%.  In addition, if you choose to train a 16-18 year-old as part of an apprentice scheme, both yourself as an employer and the provider will be eligible for a £1,000 payment.  This is to entice employers to give apprentices a chance, so that everybody in the scenario benefits.  Also, if you take on an apprentice aged between 19-25 and they have been in care or have a local authority education, health and care plan, you are also due a £1,000 payment as an employer.  Finally, if you are a member of the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), you are eligible to other financial boosts from taking on apprentices.   This includes payments of £2,500 per year for attendance and a £3,500 payment upon successful completion of the full apprenticeship. More information on the CITB grants can be found here.   How to enrol an apprentice  Enrolling an apprentice is done in six steps. These are as follows:  Check the eligibility of the apprentice  Sign agreements (contract of employment, apprenticeship agreement, commitment statement)  Determine a training provider  Decide what type of apprenticeship it is  Identify end-point assessments  Certification  To find out more about these six steps in detail, you can find all the gov.uk advice here. You’re making a difference Ultimately, by taking on apprentices, you are making a big difference – for many different parties, including your own.   The industry gets young people on board at a time it badly needs it, you can oversee their development and ensure the future is in good hands and have you’ll have financial gain as a result.  Again using the gov.uk link from earlier in the article, productivity has been proven to increase 76% thanks to having apprentices. That will make a huge difference for you, the apprentice and the industry.   In addition, with the right supervision, 75% of apprentices end up actually improving the quality of the work that your company is doing.   Therefore, we fully believe the pros outweigh the cons when it comes to taking onboard new apprentices. It’s also one of the reasons we’re so active with the scheme ourselves.   If you would like to talk to a member of our team that has experience with apprenticeships for further information, please feel free to get in touch with us. You can do so by following this link.  

Read more → 4 min read
Video
What is an EPDM washer?

Daniel explains what an EPDM washer is and its benefits. Screws used in this video: https://multifixuk.com/products?product_query=tek+screws+hex+head

Read more → 1 min watch
Video
What is the difference between Frog Tape and the tapes that Multifix stock

In this video, Daniel shows how what the different tapes do, what they are for and give you a demonstration of quality. Tapes used in this video: Multifix Pro Blue Masking Tape 50mmx50m: https://multifixuk.com/products/high-performance-blue-masking-tape-50mm-x-50m Buff Masking Tape 25mm x 50m: https://multifixuk.com/products/masking-tape-buff-25mm-x-50m-roll-general-purpose

Read more → 6 min watch
Article
Construction and net zero – what’s going on?

One of the more regular phrases that is thrown about in the UK construction industry is ‘net zero’. A net zero target, net zero compliance, a net zero plan – these are all things you’ve likely heard or seen in the media.   You’ve also likely seen these used in a positive context, with some talking about how they are on track for their net zero goals and targets.   But what does it actually mean? What is net zero and how does it impact construction? Why is it such a big deal?  In this article, we will explain what net zero is, why it is important and how it directly impacts the construction industry in the UK.   In addition, we will also take a look at how much progress is being made in relation to some of the key targets set.   By the end of it, you’ll hopefully be more informed about net zero and understand why it’s such a hot topic in the construction industry.   So, what actually is net zero? What does it mean?  In its simplest form, net zero is designed to combat global warming. With it being proven that greenhouse gas emissions, including the likes of carbon dioxide, need to be reduced to deal with global warming, net zero was put in place to help.   However, taking away the use of greenhouse gases is pretty much impossible as it would cause everything to come to a halt overnight. For example, whenever we make steel, concrete or cement, we use greenhouse gases to do so.   As such, net zero will be achieved when we balance out what we use with what we give back. As an example, planting trees is a good way of trying to achieve net zero, or using solar power instead of fossil fuels.   Should we reach a point where what we give back to the planet is either as much or more than what we take out from it, then at that point, net zero would’ve been achieved.   But surely that’s going to be incredibly difficult with construction?  In short, yes. That is one of the reasons why it cannot be done overnight, as it just isn’t possible. As such, the target goal for net zero to be completed is by 2050.   According to the CITB, 40% of UK emissions are as a result of construction. In addition, there are 27 million homes that need retrofitting, but 80% of buildings that will still be safely habitable in 2050 are already built.   Those are some huge numbers, but ultimately, until we find more sustainable methods to produce the materials we need, it’ll struggle to come down.   As such, this is why there are 26 years to try and hit the target, as without the use of a magic wand, there’s no feasible way for it to be achieved sooner.   It also gives companies the time to figure out how they can give back to offset what they’re using, which is a more practical way of dealing with the matter in the short term.   Is the 2050 target achievable?  It is a huge challenge, but ultimately, it is possible. So much so that in Scotland, it’s 2045. It means a fair amount of change to existing processes, but it is doable.   For example, you might start to see new houses being built by using naturally grown materials, instead of the materials we currently use.   The issue is that while construction may achieve everything it sets out to do, that in itself may not be enough for the UK to hit net zero by 2050.   In June 2023, it was revealed that in addition to the Climate Change Committee declaring that the UK was no longer a world leader on climate issues, our progress is “worryingly slow”.   Naturally, this isn’t the best news, but there’s still time to rectify it and construction doing its fair share will go a long way to ensuring that.   Work to be done, but the right steps being taken What is pleasing though, is how open the construction industry has been to net zero and how aware it has been to the need to cut down on greenhouse gas emissions.   Again as per the CITB, 70% of construction employees have a good idea of how to revamp and adapt their business, while 90% are more than willing to retrain if needed.   This is all positive and there may well be retraining needed, especially when it comes to using different materials, but the fact the intent is there can only be a good thing.   There will be a lot of new things to factor in as the years go by, but for now, the path to net zero does seem to be going well from a construction perspective.   Net zero is something we take seriously at Multifix. It’s caused us to rethink as a company about how we operate and that can only be a good thing. To find out more, you can see our sustainability pledges here.  

Read more → 4 min read
Article
What you need to know about construction apprenticeships

When it comes to getting into construction, one of the best ways to do this, whether it’s after leaving school or just to get into the trade, is as an apprentice.  Apprentices are the future of the industry. The tools and techniques they learn will hopefully see them pass on their wisdom years down the line to someone else in the position they once were.   The apprentice scheme is something we are passionate about at Multifix, with it being something that we follow.   The reason we do this is because apprenticeships are a great step for young people to take to get into the industry and sees them gain an education, while being paid to do so.   Therefore, in this article, we will outline the key information you have to take into account when you are looking for a construction apprenticeship.   What exactly is an apprenticeship? So, first and foremost, an apprenticeship is a paid job that lasts a minimum of 12 months and is applicable to anyone who is 16 or over.   It’s a mixture of practical and academic learning and you’ll be working under experienced staff members, who have been in the field for years.   If you have a full-time apprenticeship, you’ll be working 30-40 hours a week and during this time, you will be given tasks to do, in addition to your work duties.   On average, you’ll spend about six hours a week doing off-the-job training, which can include coursework.   How many types of apprenticeships are there available?  There are four different types of apprenticeships, varying in different levels of what they can unlock for you. These are:  - Intermediate (Level 2) - Advanced (Level 3) - Higher level (Levels 4, 5 and 6) - Degree level (Level 7)  Intermediate is the equivalent of five GCSEs at 9-4 level, or in old money, A*-C. Advanced is the equivalent of two A-Levels or a Level 3 Diploma and Higher level is the equivalent of a Foundation degree.   The degree level itself is the equivalent of a Bachelor’s degree or a Master’s degree. Each stage will have their own entry requirements, which will be made clear to you before you apply.   In this sense, it’s no different applying for a job that asks for x qualification or y years of experience, but naturally, with Intermediate, you are likely to find much fewer requirements than for degree level.   How do I get an apprenticeship? There are a few ways to get an apprenticeship sorted, but be aware that it is no different to applying for a job. There is a lot of competition and it’ll likely require applications to multiple companies.   Online is the best bet, especially on job-seeking websites like Indeed or TotalJobs. It’s also worth looking at LinkedIn, too.   Also, by using TalentView, you can directly apply for construction apprenticeships You can find out more and do so here.  If you’re still in school or college, it’s very much worth speaking to people there as they will be able to put you in contact with potential employers.   In the same manner, asking friends and family is another good way. So much of how the world works is based on who you know, so if you have a family friend or a relative who can maybe help you, it’s certainly a path worth exploring.   Another good way is to look at construction companies’ websites and see if they have any apprenticeship listings on there. Keeping your finger on the pulse of their social activity can help with that too, as some will post job listings on social media.   Finally, it’s worth noting that depending on certain circumstances, it’s possible that a hiring company can earn up to £14,000 by taking you on as an apprentice. They would earn this money through either the Construction Industry Training Board or the UK Government.  This can be used as a sales pitch by you, as if they get the full amount, that will offset a significant proportion of your wages.   If I get one sorted, what happens when it finishes? A number of things can happen at this point, but what is guaranteed is that you will get a qualification for completing your apprenticeship.   This makes you more employable and is something you can take anywhere with you. At the end of your apprenticeship though, your employer may wish to offer you full-time employment if they are happy with you.  Alternatively, you could be put onto a higher-level apprenticeship with them, which further bolsters your skills and gives you more strings to your bow. It’s also very likely that you’ll earn more money being on a higher-level apprenticeship as well, so that’s always a good thing.   Equally, you may feel as if you want to explore further options. You may want to pursue an apprenticeship elsewhere, or work for someone else. In this case, you’ll still have the qualification, so you’ll be well-prepped.   The future of construction Apprentices have a huge part to play in any sector, but that statement is especially prevalent in the construction industry.  Whether you want to be a carpenter, bricklayer, site manager or any of the other many, many roles within the sector, one of the best ways to go about it is via the apprenticeship route.   Hopefully after reading this article, you’ll have some more information about the scheme and who knows, maybe it’ll be the first step on what could be a long and successful journey in construction.   If you would like to find more information about Multifix’s apprenticeship scheme, which we mentioned earlier on in the article, you can get in touch with us here.  

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Article
Three types of fire door foam Multifix supplies – and what they do

Given its importance, one of the more common questions we get from carpenters is, “What fire door foam do you stock?”   Required by law, the use of fire door foam allows occupants vital time to escape a burning building safely.   But which one is best for you? If they all do the same thing, what makes the ones we stock any different?  At Multifix, we stock three different types of fire door foam, with all three proving to be very useful for carpenters.   In this article, we will go through the three types of fire door foam that we stock and explain why they are different and how they can help you.   Blue60 Intumescent Fire Foam (750ml)  A very reliable fire door foam, the Blue60 is one of the first properly tested fire foams for fire doors. It is a self-expanding fire foam and is also made up of environmentally friendly propellants, which stop it from burning into the ozone layer.   Providing up to 60 minutes of fire protection, the Blue60 has been tested in pretty much every possible combination of frame and wall materials.  It is to be used in conjunction with Blue60 fire-rated packers, which come in three different sizes. These are 1mm, 3mm and 5mm in thickness.   The polyurethane foam is ideal for sealing applications wherever fire resistance is required and also conforms to BS EN 1643-1 and BS476 Part 22.   You can purchase Blue60 Intumescent Fire Foam here.    Fire Door Foam for Fire Doors & Doorsets – Gun Grade (750ml)  Next up is the Fire and Acoustic (FAS) foam, which also offers up to 60 minutes of fire resistance, but it has also been tested with plastic packers.   This does give it something of a unique advantage, as it can be used with both plastic and timber packers.  The FAS fire door foam is suitable for use for cavity gap filling, perimeter pointing around fire doors, MDF, timber frames, softwood and hardwood.   It also has BS 476: Part 20 & 22:1987 and BS EN 1634-1 accreditation and has an acoustic rating of up to 60 dB Rw.  In addition, the FAS fire door foam has CF5839 Certifire approval and very much offers an all-in-one solution.  You can purchase FAS fire door foam here. Nullifire FF197 Fire Rated Expanding PU Foam – Gun Grade (750ml)  Finally, we move onto the Nullifire FF197 fire door foam, which is used to seal linear gaps throughout the fire-rated areas of a building. The Nullifire FF197 can also offer up to 240 minutes of fire resistance for linear gaps, while up to 60 minutes for fire doors.   It can also be used to seal door frames and window frames and can fill gaps of up to 35mm when being used for a fire door.   Like the FAS fire door foam, it can be used with plastic packers, but it has also been tested without architrave. The foam itself is pink, which is great for the installer as this makes it easily identifiable against other types of expanding foam that aren’t fire-resistant.   The FF197 has also been tested to BS EN 1634-1 and BS EN 1366-4 and can also offer an acoustic rating of up to 62 dB.  You can purchase Nullifire FF197 here.   A fair selection of fire door foam  While all three types of fire foam have their own unique differences, the main objective is the same – providing up to 60 minutes of fire resistance.   As mentioned earlier, this can be the difference between safety and disaster, so it’s imperative that whatever fire door foam you use, it is applied correctly.   With these three types of fire foam, you will be ensuring that properties are kept safe. Lives could be saved as a result of these foams, which is why they are so vital.   These three especially will be used up and down the country for a number of different sites; and with very good reason. They all have their own unique characteristics, but they all serve the same goal and do it very well.  If you need something versatile, then the Blue60 won’t let you down. If you need something that is fine with plastic packers, then the FAS foam is a great shout. Equally, if need something that can work without architrave, then the Nullifire foam will be a good fit for you.   If you would like to get in contact with Multifix to discuss fire door foam, you can do so by following this link.  

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