In an era where modern buildings seem to dominate, there’s an undeniable charm to older or period properties that stands the test of time. These increasingly rare treasures offer a glimpse into the past, showcasing craftsmanship and character that captivate homeowners and enthusiasts alike. However, the passage of time can take its toll on these properties, requiring careful maintenance and updates to ensure they remain functional and visually appealing. This is where Edge Building products come into play, seamlessly blending modern innovation with timeless aesthetics to preserve and enhance the charm of older properties.

The Allure of Older Properties

Older properties, whether Victorian, Edwardian, Georgian, or even historic farmhouses, display a distinct charm that modern constructions often struggle to replicate. High ceilings, intricate mouldings, ornate detailing, and authentic materials create an ambiance of elegance and warmth that resonates with many. Preserving the unique character of these structures while incorporating modern amenities and efficiency is a delicate balance that demands creative solutions.

The Challenge: Balancing Preservation and Modernisation

One of the primary challenges in maintaining older properties is finding ways to incorporate modern building technologies without compromising their historic essence. This is where Edge Building products come into play, providing innovative solutions designed to seamlessly integrate with the existing architecture while enhancing its functionality.

Windows and Doors: The windows and doors of a period property are often key architectural features. Edge Building products offer custom-designed windows and doors that maintain the aesthetic integrity of the property while improving energy efficiency and security. Replicating the traditional design with modern materials, such as PVC and aluminium, ensures a perfect blend of old and new.

Roof: The roof is another critical component that defines the look of a period property. We supply Liteslate tiles, a synthetic tile that successfully mimics the appearance of classic materials like slate tiles while providing durability and enhanced weather resistance. This ensures that the property retains its historical charm while being well-equipped to withstand the elements. Our lantern rooflights are also brilliant for retaining the period feel, while bringing in more natural light to expose the charm within the property.

Exterior Cladding: Preserving the exterior façade is crucial in maintaining the period charm. Edge Building products provide a range of cladding options, such as fibre cement cladding, and the Fortex range that replicate traditional timber cladding, offering the desired aesthetics without the maintenance challenges of natural materials. This enables homeowners to enjoy the visual appeal of their property without compromising on practicality.

Interior Finishes: Restoring or updating the interior of an older property is a delicate process. Edge Building products include interior finishes like mouldings, covings, cornices, and panelling that match the existing architectural details. This attention to detail ensures that the interior spaces remain true to their original design while incorporating modern construction techniques.

Preserving Sustainability: Our Contribution

In an age of environmental consciousness, sustainability plays a pivotal role in modern construction. As a company, we align with this ethos by offering energy-efficient solutions that contribute to the preservation of older properties for generations to come.

Energy Efficiency: Older properties often suffer from poor insulation and outdated heating and cooling systems – which, when coupled with old, single glazed timber windows can mean that there is a lot of energy wastage. We provide glazing solutions that improve energy efficiency without compromising the aesthetics of the building. This ensures that the property remains comfortable while reducing energy consumption – not to mention saving money!

Longevity & Low Maintenance: The durability and longevity of our product range contribute to the long-term sustainability of older properties whether you’re installing our uPVC products, or our other product ranges. By using high-quality materials and construction methods, these products ensure that restoration efforts are investments that pay off over decades. Unlike traditional building materials, our products all boast low maintenance benefits

Preservation with Innovation: A Harmonious Approach

The preservation of older properties requires a delicate balance between honouring history and embracing innovation. We’re fully on board with this challenge, allowing homeowners, architects, and preservationists to collaborate in maintaining the charm of older properties for future generations to appreciate.

In the UK, older or period properties hold a unique place in our architectural heritage, embodying a sense of timelessness that resonates with us. Preserving their charm requires a combination of passion, expertise, and innovative solutions. Edge Building products rise to this challenge, offering a bridge between the past and the present. By embracing these products, you and your clients can ensure that these architectural gems continue to captivate and inspire for generations to come, blending the best of both worlds into an enduring masterpiece.

We’re loving what one of our customers has written on Period property renovation – have a read!

Explore our range

• Ogee Fascia
• Decorative Roofline
• Cast-style guttering
• Edgesky roof lantern
• Windows & Doors

We’d love to discuss your period property requirements with you. Give us a call on 03450213333 or pop an email to [email protected].

30^th August 2023

Things have been busy at Edge, with our 3 branches each hosting a trade event, in June, July and August! We invited many of the trusted brands that we work with to join us, and provide product insights and demonstrations while our customers enjoyed free food, big discounts, free prize draws and of course, freebies!

It was great to network with the customers and brands who attended – We believe that it’s so important to keep in touch with each other and share valuable insights within the industry.

June marked the beginning of our trade event series. With, our first event held at our Croydon Branch. Representatives from a few top brands set up their stands to show off their latest products. The atmosphere was great, with attendees having valuable discussions about market trends, product innovations, and the challenges they face. Our team was thrilled to be involved these conversations, seeing them as an opportunity to learn from our customers as well.

In July, our second trade event was held at our Chichester.  The array of products on display was impressive, really showcasing the diversity of our brand partners’ areas of expertise. From the latest PVC colours and finishes to repair demonstrations, there was something of interest to everyone who visited. Our customers could not only see these products up close but also experience them first-hand through interactive demonstrations. The positive feedback we received highlighted the significance of providing such experiential opportunities.

Our most recent event was the August trade event at our Horsham Branch. We were delighted with the uptake, with many trades arriving for a bite to eat and a good old chat. What sets our trade events apart is not just the showcasing of products but the sense of community they foster. The bonds formed between brands, customers, and us go beyond transactions; they are built on shared interests and the shared dream to elevate the industry.

Which brands attended?

We were pleased to see many great brands that we work with at each of our branch events.

Many thanks to:

• Soudal – sealants and adhesives
• Storm Building Products
• Timco – fixings
• Swish Building Products
• Britmet Lightweight Roofing – Synthetic Liteslate Rooftiles
• Liniar
• Konig UK – uPVC paint and repair solutions
• James Hardie – Fibre cement Cladding
• Brett Martin – Cast-style guttering systems

When’s the next Trade Event?

Keep an eye out for more events coming up in 2023 and beyond! We’ll let you know when the next event is, and what will be on offer.

In the meantime, if you’d like a chat about any of our products, services or just a catch up on how your projects are going – we’d love to talk! Give us a call on 0345 021 3333 or pop an email over to [email protected].

Enjoy the selection of  shots we’ve put together for you below:

23rd August 2023

In the realm of building materials, we’ve found that the quest for sustainability goes beyond mere appearances. The measure of a material’s sustainability isn’t just in its apparent greenness or origins, but in the assessment of its entire lifecycle. Here, we delve into the sustainable potential of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) as a building material. By exploring its advantages in terms of longevity, low maintenance, recyclability, and resource efficiency, we reveal the depth of its sustainability beyond the surface.

The Quest for True Sustainability

As the global consciousness has shifted massively towards eco-friendliness, the sustainability of building materials has come under intense scrutiny. The term “sustainability” is often associated with materials that are natural, renewable, and seemingly environmentally friendly. However, such perceptions can be misleading. The real test of a material’s sustainability lies in its ability to minimize resource consumption and environmental impact throughout its entire lifecycle.

Breaking Down PVC’s Sustainability

PVC, a synthetic polymer, might not immediately strike one as a sustainable choice due to its synthetic nature. However, a closer examination reveals that PVC possesses a range of attributes that contribute to its overall sustainability in the construction industry.

Longevity and Durability: PVC’s resilience against harsh weather conditions and physical stresses is one of its strongest sustainability assets. Unlike some natural materials that might degrade over time, PVC has a remarkable ability to withstand wear and tear, leading to longer product lifespans.

Low Maintenance: The sustainability of a material extends beyond its initial production. PVC’s resistance to decay, rot, and weathering minimises the need for frequent repairs and replacements. This translates to reduced maintenance efforts and costs over the long run, ultimately conserving resources.

Recyclability and Circular Economy: PVC’s potential for recycling aligns well with the principles of a circular economy. Unlike some natural materials that might face limitations in recycling due to impurities or chemical treatments, PVC’s recyclability contributes to a more sustainable waste management process.

Resource Efficiency: The efficient use of resources is a cornerstone of sustainability. PVC’s durability and recyclability together optimise resource consumption, reducing the demand for new materials and minimising waste.

In the pursuit of sustainability in building materials, it’s crucial to look beyond surface-level attributes. The true measure of a material’s environmental impact lies in its entire lifecycle resource efficiency. While PVC might not boast the natural origins associated with “green” materials, its sustainability credentials are substantial.

The longevity and durability of PVC, coupled with its low maintenance requirements, contribute to reduced resource consumption and waste generation. Its potential for recycling aligns with modern circular economy principles, fostering a more responsible approach to material use and disposal. The resource efficiency achieved through PVC’s lifecycle showcases its role as a sustainable building material, one that challenges traditional notions of what makes a material eco-friendly.

As we navigate the complexities of sustainability in construction, it’s imperative to consider the complete impact of our material choices. PVC’s ability to provide longevity, low maintenance, recyclability, and resource efficiency positions it as a valuable candidate in the sustainable building material landscape. By choosing PVC with a keen awareness of its lifecycle benefits, we can contribute to building a more environmentally responsible future.

Explore our range of PVC products:

• Fascias & Soffits
• Cladding
• Window Trims
• Guttering
• Windows & Doors

Want a chat?

The Edge Team are more than happy to chat through any sustainability concerns you may have, and give you access to our product specifications. We can also advise you with PVC maintenance and end-of-life recycling – ensuring you can get the most out of the products.

Give us a call on 0345 021 3333 or pop an email over to [email protected]

This month, we’re pleased to award Salt Earth Ltd with the installation of the month – for the stunning house project on the outskirts of Chichester.

Edge were pleased to supply:

• Origin internal doors
• Residence 7 windows & French doors – Painswick Grey on White (RAL 7038)
• Matching Painswick window trims and silicone
• Cast Style PVC Guttering in Black
• Aluminium Bifold Doors Painswick Grey on White
• 3 Rooflights – Black on white
• Composite Door – Black on white
• Underground Drainage

The project consisted of an extension and complete renovation of a family home, turning it into a large residence with significantly increased space for entertainment and family gathering. The traditional feel of the property has a warm, timeless appeal – whilst modern technology has been incorporated, making the home an efficient and up-to-date dwelling. Not to mention the home cinema and games room on the top floor – they just add to the luxury!

14th August 2023

As tradesmen and contractors in the business of construction, with the right help and guidance, the sky’s the limit as to what you can achieve for your clients. Edge Building Products proudly partners with you to provide a comprehensive range of end-to-end products and project specialist services.

From concept and planning through to completion, our team works closely with you – our clients, to ensure each and every step is taken efficiently,  ensuring  your project stays on track. We understand that no two jobs are the same, and have cultivated a process that gives industry professionals full control over any construction project from start to finish, regardless of the size of the company.

There are a huge range of benefits to working with Edge Building Products, which we will outline in this blog.

Edge Building Products… a building supplier you can trust:

When you choose Edge Building Products as your supplier, you can rely on us for the complete solution, without having to juggle multiple suppliers and service providers, which saves time and reduces stress. With Edge, you can put all your eggs in our basket and be assured that you are getting the best quality trade products backed by dedicated customer service and competitive pricing.

The products stocked by Edge are selected and designed for durability, low-maintenance, and long-lasting performance, ensuring your investment lasts for many years to come. Edge Building Products’ commitment to customer satisfaction is unrivalled, we will work with you to ensure that the requirements of your project are not only met but surpassed.

With our comprehensive range of products and services, Edge is the ideal partner for tradesmen and construction professionals looking for complete solutions.

We offer Next Day Delivery when you order before 3pm (South-East only) and convenient opening times (7am – 4.30pm) Monday to Friday, excluding Bank Holidays. We can also offer assistance with scheduling, and access to our technical specialists for assisted site surveys on glazing projects if required.

For customers in Horsham and the wider Surrey area, you can find our Edge Building Products trade counter at Blatchford Road, Horsham, RH13 5QR. This is close to Crawley and easily accessible from Guildford, Brighton and Worthing. Our Croydon trade counter is conveniently located within the M25, making it easily accessible for anyone in or around the South of London. Last but not by no means least, our Chichester branch can be found at Britannia House, Glenmore Business Park, PO19 7BJ.

We also offer trade accounts to our customers and registration is free and easy. Customers with a trade account can benefit from a faster checkout experience, save multiple shipping addresses and view and track orders.

Our team are contactable via email on [email protected] or via phone at 0345 021 3333.

A working relationship with a difference:

We understand it can be challenging for the trade to cater to homeowners who have varying ideas and levels of knowledge about their home renovation projects. Some homeowners may come to you with a complete set of architectural drawings, while others are just beginning to conceptualise their ideas.

Whichever end of the scale you find yourself, Edge Building Products is here to help make your job easier.

When our trade customers walk through our doors, we understand that they have a lot on their plate, especially when it comes to executing excited client’s renovation plans. That’s why we provide all the necessary materials and supplies you need to bring their concepts to life, in a stress-free environment. We even offer complimentary hot drinks at each of our three trade counters at Chichester, Croydon and Horsham, a popular addition to our service.

A supplier to the trade that’s on your side:

No matter where your clients are in their home renovation journey, Edge Building Products can support you in crafting a masterpiece you can be proud of. Our friendly team of experts are always ready to listen to your needs and guide you through every step of the process.

We also offer Edge Annual Rewards to our customers, which are in partnership with Virgin Experience Days. When you spend over £5,000 (ex VAT) in 2023 you’ll automatically become eligible for Edge Rewards.

Our awards run across three tiers:

• Bronze Tier Awards (spend between £5000 – £9,999)
• Silver Tier Awards (spend between £10,000 – £19,999)
• Gold Tier Awards (spend over £20,000)

How do Edge Building Products support you during the project?

We support you with our wide variety of affordable products, some of which are made to order and others that are available for next day delivery or can be picked up from one of our three trade counters.

At Edge, we also provide installation guides and have a dedicated customer service team ready to answer any questions. We are proud to offer a convenient ‘one stop shop’ to the trade, for all your building supplies. There really is no need to look elsewhere.

Edge Building Products supply products made by leading manufacturers including Swish, Origin, Liniar, Soudal, Smart Aluminium Systems, Freefoam Building Products and more.

Whether you’re looking for PVC cladding, composite decking, doors, windows or various accessories, at Edge Building Products, we have got you covered.

For any tradesman, choosing a supplier they can trust and enjoy working with is a fundamental aspect of their business, and something that shouldn’t be overlooked. Whilst there are countless building suppliers out there, what makes Edge Building Products unique is our commitment to customer service. We know many of our regular clients by name and have a genuine interest in their projects and business evolution.

Our service doesn’t stop when the product is delivered or picked up. We see our relationship with our customers as a partnership and choosing the right building products supplier is vital.

10th August 2023

In the ever-evolving world of home improvement and construction, innovation takes centre stage once again with the introduction of the latest addition to the Fortex cladding range – Shadow Gap Cladding. This remarkable new product, which Edge is now proud to supply, comes adorned with a subtle ‘pine’ embossed finish and features an alluring deep groove between boards. With dimensions of 5 meters in length and 182mm in width, this cladding looks like it’s going to be a game-changer in the industry.

One of the things we find so exciting about the Shadow Gap Cladding is its ability to transform spaces instantly. Designed to be installed vertically, it offers a fresh perspective on home aesthetics. Whether it’s a new build or a renovation project, this cladding is tailored to make an impact. The distinct shadow gap effect it creates between boards adds a touch of sophistication, giving your space a modern yet timeless appeal.

Aesthetics Meet Practicality

The ‘pine’ embossed finish is a nod to the natural world, bringing the charm of wood into your space without the associated maintenance hassles. This embossed finish not only provides a realistic wood-like texture but also ensures that the cladding is robust and able to withstand the challenges of weather and time. The durability of the cladding is further fortified by its uPVC construction, making it resistant to moisture, rot, and the fading effects of UV rays.

The deep groove between boards is more than just an aesthetic feature; it enhances the architectural character of the cladding. The play of light and shadow created by these grooves adds depth to the façade, highlighting the unique vertical installation style. This captivating design element allows you to achieve a balanced fusion of contemporary design and natural elegance.

Versatility Unleashed

Shadow Gap isn’t limited to specific projects; it’s a versatile solution suitable for a wide range of applications. Whether you’re working on side façades, gable ends, bay windows, dormer elevations, or even garden rooms, this cladding has you covered. Its adaptability makes it a prime choice for both residential and commercial projects, offering endless creative possibilities for architects, designers, and homeowners alike.

A Modern Alternative

While timber and render have traditionally been popular options for cladding, Shadow Gap Cladding stands as a modern alternative that combines the best of both worlds. It brings the natural beauty of wood with a contemporary twist, all while avoiding the drawbacks associated with timber, such as maintenance, susceptibility to pests, and weather-related deterioration. Render, on the other hand, often lacks the tactile appeal that the ‘pine’ embossed finish offers, and it can be prone to cracking over time.

Installation Made Easy

Worried about installation complexity? Fret not. The Shadow Gap Cladding range comes with an extensive installation guide that walks you through the process step by step. Even if you’re not a seasoned DIY enthusiast, this guide makes the installation process accessible and achievable. From measuring and cutting to securing the cladding in place, the guide ensures a seamless experience, turning your vision into reality. Be sure to check out our Shadow Gap Cladding Installation Guide while you’re here!

In a world where innovation continues to reshape the landscape of home improvement, the Shadow Gap Cladding emerges as a star player. Its subtle ‘pine’ embossed finish, combined with the attractive deep groove between boards, promises to redefine the aesthetics of any space it graces. The ability to transform vertical installations adds a new dimension to architectural design, making it an ideal choice for a spectrum of projects.

Whether you’re envisioning a cozy garden room or seeking to rejuvenate the façade of your home, the Shadow Gap Cladding stands ready to bring your ideas to life. It bridges the gap between classic appeal and contemporary design, offering the charm of wood without the upkeep.

Chat with us about your cladding requirements!

We’d love to discuss your project needs, show you samples and offer installation advice. Feel free to give us a call, send us an email, or pop into one of our Trade Counters.

0345 021 3333 | [email protected]

9^th August 2023

When it comes to maintaining a healthy and functional property, one aspect that often goes unnoticed but plays a crucial role is the underground drainage system.  These hidden heroes silently whisk away rainwater and wastewater, preventing potential flooding and water damage. Let’s delve into the world of underground drainage, exploring key components like soakaway crates, pipes, bends, branches, gullies, chamber bases, manholes, and channel drainage, so you can better understand and appreciate their importance.

Soakaway Crates: An Unseen Hero 

Soakaway crates are revolutionary solutions for storm water management. They act as underground reservoirs, collecting and storing excess rainwater from surfaces like roofs and driveways. These crates then slowly release the water into the surrounding soil, preventing surface flooding and reducing the load on the public drainage and sewer systems. They’re easy to install and are environmentally friendly, making them a popular choice for modern drainage systems.

Pipes: The Circulatory System of Drainage

Pipes are the veins and arteries of your underground drainage system, carrying wastewater away from your property to treatment plants or other designated discharge points. Proper pipe installation and maintenance are crucial to avoid blockages and leaks that can lead to expensive repairs. Choose high-quality pipes that are durable and corrosion-resistant to ensure the longevity of your drainage system.

Bends and Branches: Navigating the Terrain

Imagine a bend as a navigational tool for your drainage pipes, allowing them to adjust to changes in direction. Bends are essential for smoothly guiding wastewater around obstacles and preventing clogs. On the other hand, branches serve as offshoots, connecting additional drainage points to the main pipeline. Properly placed bends and branches enhance the efficiency of your drainage system, preventing backups and ensuring a seamless flow of wastewater.

Gullies: Interceptors of Debris

Gullies are the unsung heroes that trap debris and prevent it from clogging the pipes. They are installed at ground level to capture surface water and direct it into the underground drainage network. Regularly cleaning and maintaining gullies are essential to ensure they function optimally, safeguarding your system from blockages and potential overflows.

Chamber Bases: Building a Strong Foundation

Chamber bases are concrete or plastic structures that form the foundation of inspection chambers. They provide access points to the underground drainage system, allowing for easy inspection, cleaning, and maintenance. Keeping chamber bases accessible and clear of obstructions is crucial for swift troubleshooting and efficient drainage management.

Manholes: The Access Points

Manholes are the gateways to your underground drainage labyrinth. They provide larger access points for maintenance personnel to enter the drainage network, enabling them to inspect and repair the pipes. Manholes come in various sizes and designs, and their covers should always be secure to prevent accidents and ensure public safety.

Channel Drainage: Safeguarding Surfaces

Channel drainage systems are designed to protect large surface areas from standing water, especially during heavy rainfall. They consist of long, narrow channels that collect and redirect water away from driveways, patios, and other vulnerable areas. Channel drainage systems are easy to install and maintain, offering an efficient solution for surface water management.

Ultimately, the underground drainage system is an unsung hero that plays a vital role in safeguarding our properties from water-related issues. From soakaway crates to channel drainage, each component plays a crucial role in ensuring efficient water management. Regular inspection, maintenance, and investing in high-quality materials are essential to keep your drainage system running smoothly.

Remember, underground drainage is not just about functional utility; it’s about protecting your property and the environment. So, the next time you experience heavy rain, take a moment to appreciate these hidden heroes working tirelessly to keep you dry and your surroundings safe.

Explore our range of Underground Drainage at Edge Building products – we’ve got all your needs covered, plus a helpful bunch of staff who can answer any questions you might have!

Chat with us

[email protected] | 0345 021 3333

2nd August 2023