Welcome to Professional Builder’s annual industry accolade where we celebrate the business–boosting solutions that have come to the aid of the trades on site
As we mark the end of another year and begin to think about what 2024 might have in store for us, it’s time to look back at 2023 and its highlights. The following pages will cover innovations featured across our editorial, advertising and digital platforms over the last twelve months. In fact, it’s your engagement with these products through comments, likes and views, that has helped us choose the very worthy winners. These products range from the latest developments in building materials to power tools – and everything in between. So, without further ado, here’s the Professional Builder Top Products of 2023. As always, thank you for reading – here’s to a cracking 2024!
The Innovation Award 2023
The Metex Grindermate
We featured the Grindermate in our September issue and couldn’t think of a more worthy recipient of the Innovation Award 2023. The Metex Grindermate is a brick jig that makes cutting bricks much easier and safer. The nifty little product was created by Mark Thompson and Jim Wigan, who both boast 20 years in the industry – Mark as a quantity surveyor and director, and Jim running his own building company. From a spur of the moment idea, and a couple of bits of wood, to an advanced plastic moulded product sold nationwide, the Grindermate has come a very long way.
Jim describes how the idea for a simple brick cutting jig popped up whilst on a job back in 2016: “We were undertaking a very big driveway project with a labourer who wasn’t very skilled at what he did, so it was more to do with keeping him safe, as well as keeping my anxiety levels down as a boss. We were doing thousands of cuts, so I made a prototype wooden jig for him to use, just something so I could go to work and not worry about the labourers in the background – Grindermate sort of created itself from there on!”
The clever pair have added to the design of the jig since then. It’s now made of plastic, features teeth on the bottom to hold it in place on the ground and has a trough at the back of the platform to collect brick dust generated during cutting. It also has handy little embossed measuring pieces for guiding angled cuts.
The Grindermate reveals the advantages of lived experience on site in the development of a product. When it comes to the safety of you and your workforce, a product that is simple to use, easy to carry, no hassle – and lets you keep all of your toes – makes all the difference. You could say what Mark and Jim have achieved is cutting edge stuff! The two are showing no signs of stopping either and are currently looking at an extension of the idea for roof tiles. With Metex on board, we’re sure the Grindermate will remain a cut above.
For more information on the Metex Grindermate visit GRINDERMATE – A Safe & Accurate Cutting Jig – Metex Online.
Editorial
Helly Hansen UC-ME Collection
Being visible on site is vital to staying safe and Helly Hansen is one company that took this to the ‘hi-est’ level. The UC-ME Collection uses phosphorescent tape to allow the wearer to be seen even in pitch dark conditions. It also features waterproofing and breathable technologies as well as optimised insulation.
For more information on Helly Hansen’s UC-ME Collection visit Helly Hansen Workwear High Visibility Concepts | Helly Hansen Workwear High Visibility Concepts | HH Workwear GB.
Festool Cordless Table Saw CSC SYS 50
This perennial German power tool innovator really has brought something special to the table! Our very own Tibby got his hands on Festool’s CSC SYS 50 Cordless Table Saw and couldn’t have been more impressed. The compact saw uses two 18V 5Ah or 4Ah batteries and boasts and impressive speed of 6,800rpm.
For more information on Festool’s CSC SYS 50 Cordless Table Saw visit Festool Cordless table saw CSC SYS 50 EBI-Basic online.
Actis Insulation Eolis HC
In a year of soaring energy bills, Actis Insulation’s Eolis HC couldn’t have come at a better time. The super thin insulation doesn’t require the usual 25mm air gap to avoid condensation nor cutting between rafters. By using air gaps, the two-in-one reflective insulation make achieving an impressive U-value a breeze.
For more information on Actis Insulation’s Eolis HC visit EOLIS HC – ACTIS Insulation – Tomorrow’s insulation today (insulation-actis.com).
Carhartt Workwear
Despite being almost 130 years old, Carharrtt has still got some new tricks up its sleeve. The high-quality American workwear brand has been squarely focusing on UK tradespeople in 2023. From lightweight comfortable t-shirts to heavy duty rain repelling jackets – and everything in between – the company has you covered.
For more information on Carhartt’s workwear visit Carhartt® – Durable Workwear & Apparel.
OX Tools PRO OXIT
Our very own PRO, Tibby Singh tested out this product and found that ‘OX’ marked the spot. The 3 in 1 adhesive, sealant and gap filler lived up to its multi-tasking billing with features that sealed the deal including quick grab time, water resistant bonding and superior flexibility.
For more information on OX Tools PRO OXIT visit Pro OXIT – 3 in 1 Adhesive, Sealant and Gap Filler (oxtools.co.uk).
DeWalt 5Ah Powerstack Battery
It’s all power to you with the DeWalt 5Ah Powerstack Battery, which manages to be smaller in size but much longer lasting. By changing the surface area of the power cells, the heat is better dissipated leading to a longer lifespan and the ability to power through the toughest tasks.
For more information on the DeWalt 5Ah Powerstack Battery visit POWERSTACK | DEWALT.
Bullfix Plasterboard Drywall Fixings
Builders who are looking to securely and confidently mount heavy loads to plasterboard should have Bullfix in their sights. The manufacturer’s Universal fixings are designed to be impossible to incorrectly install and will work on all the most common types of plasterboard construction.
For more information on Bullfix’s Universal Fixings visit Home page – Bullfix.
Omnie TorFloor 2
The original idea of a routed 2 in 1 structural floor panel was a brilliant innovation and one that TorFloor 2 has expanded on. The clever Omnie system is designed for suspended and batten floors and utilises heat–diffusing aluminium alongside a host of other design features for easy to install, even and low temperature heating.
For more information on Omnie’s TorFloor 2 visit TorFloor Suspended Underfloor Heating – OMNIE | The Whole House System.
ToughBuilt Spirit Levels
ToughBuilt has taken its tools to the next level. This durable and precise range of equipment includes a Magnetic Box Level that comes in three sizes, and features LED lit up vials, while the 9” Magnetic Billet Torpedo Level, and the 360˚ Pocket Level, are perfect for use in tight spots.
For more information on ToughBuilt’s Spirit Levels visit Levels | Measuring Tools | ToughBuilt — TOUGHBUILT.
Barrettine Armourflex Hardwax Oil
Ideal for wooden floors and furniture, Barrettine’s Armourflex Hardwax Oil is a small tin of wonder. It ensures the wood retains its natural appearance and renders it stain, dirt and scratch resistant. The oil is also food and toy safe.
For more information on Barrettine’s Armourflex Hardwax Oil visit Armourflex Hard Wax Oil | Barrettine Products.
Advertising
Made for Trade Speedbead
It’s the Speedbead technology in Made for Trade’s Korniche bi-folding doors that’s been quick to catch the attention of the trades. The cleverly designed clip-in bead system means glazing and de-glazing can be done in seconds and prevents any damage to the glass or frame.
For more information on Made for Trade’s Speedbead visit Korniche Bi-folding Doors: The Trades Choice (madefortrade.co).
Stabila LAX 600/G
The latest cross laser from Stabila certainly measures up. The CAS 12 V battery powered LAX 600 is packed full of smart features. Up to three 360° lines can be used at the same time, resulting in a host of applications across the trades with a measuring range of up to 40 metres.
For more information on the Stabila LAX 600 / G visit STABILA LAX 600 G 12 V system cross line laser – STABILA Messgeräte Gustav Ullrich GmbH (EN).
Buckboots BuckViz 5/6
Buckboots has stepped up its game with hi vis additions. The Buckzviz 5 and Buckzviz 6 will make sure the wearer is always seen on site, whilst EN/UKCA S7 waterproof standards, and the company’s BangGuardz ankle protection system, are just some of the comfort and safety features.
For more information on Buckboots Buckzviz visit Buckz Viz – Visual impact from safety footwear that stands out – Buckler Boots (buckbootz.com).
Kingspan Kooltherm K103
Kooltherm K103 is a premium floor insulation solution from Kingspan where greater levels of thermal performance are demanded. A thermal conductivity of 0.019 W/mK – whilst remaining incredibly thin – makes it ideal for both new build and refurbishment projects.
For more information on Kingspan’s Kooltherm K103 visit Kooltherm K103 Floorboard | Kingspan GB.
Rocket Door Frames Ultra Flush
Ultra Flush from Rocket Door Frames uses three-way adjustable hinges to create the convenience and contemporary styling of hidden interior doors. The range has aluminium frame profiles, magnetic latches and comes with either primed or non-primed doors.
For more information on Ultra Flush from Rocket Door Frames visit Ultra Flush Hinged | Ultra Flush Hinges Door Frames (rocketdoorframes.co.uk).
TuffX Thermal Walk On Rooflight
Transform a basement conversion and let in natural light – all while maintaining a building’s thermal properties – with TuffX’s Thermal walk on rooflight. Internal or external installation, bespoke sizes and clear, privacy or anti-slip finishes are all available.
For more information on TuffX’s Thermal walk on rooflight visit Walk on Rooflights UK & Skylights | Thermal Rooflights (tuffxglass.co.uk).
ROCKWOOL Trade Range
Easy to fit, non-combustible sound and thermal insulation for every part of the home – there’s a rock-solid argument for using this manufacturer’s solutions. Thermal Frame Slab 32 and Thermal Cavity Slab 32 feature 13% greater thermal performance versus traditional stone wool counterparts.
For more information on ROCKWOOL’s Trade Range visit Trade Insulation Range (rockwool.com).
Origin Aluminium doors and windows
With industry leading quality, and an expert team dedicated to supporting the trades, Origin will ensure you never miss out on an installation. The manufacturer’s portfolio includes aluminium bi-folds, sliding doors, front doors, internal doors and windows.
For more information on Origin aluminium doors and windows visit Origin offer a one-stop-shop of all things aluminium (origin-global.com).
Continal Underfloor Heating
Whatever the heat source, floor construction, or covering, Continal will deliver a housewarming on your projects. The company’s dedicated team are always on hand to help create the most energy efficient solution for each customer.
For more information on Continal Underfloor Heating visit Efficient Underfloor Heating Systems | Continal Underfloor.
Dakea Roof Windows
Built for the trade, Dakea’s roof windows balance high-quality with affordability and are backed by a 20-year guarantee. They are designed to enhance living areas with natural light and fresh air, whether in new builds, loft conversions or home improvements.
For more information on Dakea roof windows visit Roof Windows UK | For Professionals | Dakea.
RWC JG Speedfit
These push-fit plumbing pioneers have all the right connections. The easy to install range includes everything you need for a fast and leak-free finish, whether it’s for hot and cold water or central heating projects.
For more information on JG Speedfit visit JG Speedfit push-fit plumbing and heating | John Guest.
Digital
Whether it’s through social media, online or straight to your inbox via our eNewsletters, our digital platforms are the perfect stage to showcase the latest industry solutions.
Makita 40VMax Lightweight Cordless Air Compressor
The launch of Makita’s first cordless air compressor achieved the most pageviews on the Professional Builder website in 2023. Offering a powerful, portable solution, and operating at only 68 decibels, this lightweight and compact machine can drive up to 700 finish nails using a fully charged 4.0Ah 40VMax XGT battery.
For more information visit Makita introduces new 40VMax Lightweight Cordless Air Compressor – Professional Builder (probuildermag.co.uk)
Origin Aluminium Doors and Windows
It was a newsletter headlining this premium manufacturer that achieved the highest open rate this year. It’s understandable why because the company knows how to deliver – literally, with the best lead times in the industry. As the door and window specialist would say themselves, if you want reliability, choose Origin.
For more information visit Origin offer a one-stop-shop of all things aluminium (origin-global.com).
Federation of Master Builders
The Federation of Master Builders found a receptive audience through our newsletters. The organisation has continued to go from strength to strength this year, with figures showing that nearly 70% of homeowners feel more confident hiring an FMB member.
For more information on the FMB visit Show you’re the best | FMB, Federation of Master Builders.
RWC JG Speedfit
The “20 Grand in Your Hand” initiative from RWC’s JG Speedfit certainly grabbed your attention. With the only entry requirement the purchase of a 10-pack of JG Speedfit 15mm Equal Elbows the campaign encouraged a lot of interest in this easy-to-fit plumbing solution.
For more information on the JG Speedfit “20 Grand in Your Hand” initiative visit 20 Grand in your Hand end of campaign thank you page – Installers | John Guest.
Barrettine Wood Protection Range
When it comes to Barrettine’s Wood Protection range the quality is clear, which is no doubt why so many opened our newsletter. The natural base oils offer long-term protection by penetrating deeply into the wood, where they grip the wood grain for long lasting protection, rather than just coating the surface.
For more information on Barrettine’s Wood Protection range visit Products | Barrettine Products.
Knauf Insulation Part L Guidance
Knauf Insulation’s Building Regulation guidance proved one ‘L’ of a hit. In addition to a document that outlined the latest changes, the company’s housebuilder hub features examples of Part L compliance, U-value advice, changes to Psi-value calculations, a look ahead to the Future Homes Standard, and more.
For more information on Knauf Insulation’s Building Regulation guidance visit Part L Advice | Knauf Insulation.
Leisure Sinks Kitchen Sinks and Taps
Leisure Sinks came to the party through our digital channels with tickets to Goodwood Revival as part of the company’s 90th birthday bash. The firm has been proudly producing stainless steel sinks in the UK since 1933 and is continuing that tradition with a range of contemporary styles.
For more information on Leisure Sinks visit Kitchen Sinks and Taps | Leisure Sinks.
Artex Gyproc EasiFill
With its clever range of options, it’s no surprise the Gyproc EasiFill range hit this list too. The three filling and repairing options, 60, 45 and 20, do exactly what you’d expect and have those respective working times. This is perfect for choosing what you want depending on the working and drying time you need and the job size.
For more information on the Gyproc EasiFill range visit Gyproc Easifill Range Overview | Artex – YouTube.
CT1 Sealant
So sure were CT1 that its product would get the job done, the team encouraged visitors to our Toolfair exhibition to hang from grips stuck to a wooden surface with its sealant. A video showing Danny Madden of Madden Builders doing some impressive acrobatics while testing out the strength of the solution was our most popular Instagram reel.
To watch the video featuring CT1’s sealant visit Check out just how strong the black @ct1sealant is as @maddenbuilders demonstrates with some stunts at #ProBuilderLive and #Toolfair… | Instagram.
TradeKart Delivery App
Our LinkedIn post on TradeKart certainly delivered in 2023. The app can supply more than 40,000 decorating, plumbing, heating, electrical and general building products to tradespeople’s doors in just two hours, with the average delivery time in central London just 57 minutes.
For more information visit TradeKart app delivers materials to site in just two hours – Professional Builder (probuildermag.co.uk).
