Knowledge

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.

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.

Our guest, Alison Oakes of Landmark Chambers, defines Right to Light and explains how it is acquired through deeds and (more commonly) via the 1832 Prescription Act.

The New Engineering Contract is a modern family of standard form construction contracts that truly embraces the concept of partnership – encouraging clients, designers and contractors to work together in construction projects. Originally introduced in 1993, the NEC has become increasingly popular, with the third edition of the contract published in 2005.

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).

Against a backdrop of site footage, Amazonails founder, Barbara Jones explains the various preparations made before the first bale is secured to the ladder plate and the process of laying the wall begins in earnest

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.

David Light, BIM Manager at HOK London shares his experience on implementing BIM process.

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.