NBS

The London Development Agency (LDA) and the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) have launched a new, mapped database of London's brownfield land called The London Brownfield Sites Database (LBSD).

Whether the ground floor of a house is suspended or filled, it will include either a solid slab or an oversite layer of concrete laid on compacted hardcore directly on the ground. Both hardcore and soil are potential sources of sulfates and other chemicals harmful to concrete. This programme investigates the hardcore components and soil conditions likely to contain sulfates, explains how concrete is affected by sulfate attack and looks at methods used to prevent such damage.

In this programme we discuss the tell-tale signs of a wood-boring insect infestation and describe how to tell the difference between the four main types of wood-boring beetle common to the UK.

Timber has long been a staple construction material for domestic scale properties, although it is increasingly being used in high-profile structures such as the Weald & Downland Gridshell. However, exposure to the elements can result in changes to the chemical and physical properties of wood, affecting its aesthetics, structure and longevity.

This programme takes a look at 'Health and wellbeing' – Category 7 in the Code for Sustainable Homes. This category is formed of four parts – daylighting, sound insulation, private space (gardens, patios, etc), and lifetime homes – all of which are explained in the context of Code for Sustainable Homes credits.

RICS damp expert Stephen Boniface defines the commonly accepted definition of rising damp before both he and fellow guest, Jeff Howell, claim ‘true’ rising damp doesn’t exist.

The replacement of the old British Standard BS 6651 with BS EN 62305 will have a significant impact on the design and installation of lightning protection structures. This programme explains why the new standard has been adopted and discusses its key points. The procedures associated with the new standard are examined, while Surge Protection Devices (SPDs) and Lightning Protection Zones (LPZs) are explored in detail.

We start by hearing how the UK's network of 200 fundamental benchmarks all stem from a single 'mother' benchmark at Newlyn in Cornwall. We show how the network expanded and we learn why now, in this highly technical modern age, the humble benchmarks' days are over.

Inspiring BIM presentation from RIBA Construction Strategy Group chair Paul Fletcher. To many, Paul was the star performer of the NBS BIM Conference. Tweet of the day of the day was "Paul Fletcher on fire!". Essential viewing.

Watch David Philp present his thoughts on BIM. David is the newly appointed Head of BIM implementation for the UK Government Cabinet office. How can we use BIM to reduce capital costs by 20% and carbon usage down to 0%?

This programme takes an in-depth look at three classic cases in law that have a direct impact on the work of professionals in the construction industry. By examining the implications of the rulings from these seemingly unrelated cases, construction professionals can get a clearer picture of their responsibilities in law towards their direct clients and others.

The programme advises designers and contractors what to consider when specifying and installing water systems such as spray taps, shower units and toilet flushing systems. It also focuses on the Legionnaires' outbreak of 2002 at the Barrow-in-Furness Arts Centre, including the legal consequences for the architect.