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Connector and structural systems specialist Simpson Strong-Tie claims to be talking the industry's language on an international scale as it becomes the first company of its kind to embrace the CE marking standard that is soon to be compulsory for many products across much of Europe. Despite CE marking not yet being a requirement of manufacturers in the UK, Ireland and Sweden Simpson is undertaking these changes alongside manufacturers in all other EC countries that must adhere to the new legislation.

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An outdoor show garden created using products supplied by leading deck manufacturer Arbordeck won a top prize at the 2007 BBC Gardeners World Live event at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham. Created by Nottingham-based Halycon Garden Design, the decked garden was judged by a committee of judges from the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) and awarded a bronze medal for its striking design. The garden featured Arbordecks's reversible deck boards which were installed smooth side up in order to emphasise the attractive, flowing design of the spiralling decking. The company holds the deck mark, a quality assurance from the timber decking association, along with a 15 year performance guarantee. Boards are tanalith e treated in order to provide protection against fungal and insect attack. A wide selection of boards is said to be available, together with a range of ancillary products such as joists spindles, handrails and fittings.

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A residential development in Ramsgate has adopted a very Kentish approach with local-style buff colour bricks and Colorplan Premier Weatherboarding cladding from Hastings-based CEP Cladding. But, instead of fixing the boards on a horizontal plane, they were installed at a 45 degree angle, contrasting with the traditional format. The cladding is wood based and reproduces the effect of traditional timber weatherboards. It comprises a solid core of sustainable natural timber chips bound with a synthetic resin, with additional components to protect from fungal decay. This composite core is protected by an impermeable layer and an acrylic surface. The product is available in 71 colours and seven textured wood-grain patterns.

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Window hardware manufacturer Securistyle has launched a new version of its Defender hinge specification for the timber window market. The timber variant friction hinge is said to be easy to fit and enhances the weather sealing of timber windows. Simple to adjust, and available with built in restrictors, the product can be fitted with ease and doesn't weaken under weather conditions.

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