Cover story
Chris Windle explores the different types of floor coverings on the market today, appreciating both their aesthetic and practical merits
Top floors
Tim Palmer looks at the flooring systems that tick all of the important boxes, tackling noise transference, energy efficiency and speed of build
Quicker, quieter, cleaner
Tim Palmer revisits these two key industries as we head into the autumn selling season. In the kitchen, convenience has become a key area of interest for appliance manufacturers. And in the bathroom, clever technologies ensure that home owners have the best experience possible
New waves
Inside the home, there are plenty of products that can contribute to an eco-friendly and sustainable build. Tim Palmer takes a look in the kitchen, bathroom and at flooring
Sustainability stars
In the first part of Housebuilder's eco and sustainability special, Chris Windle explores the building fabrics that will lay the foundations for a sustainable build, as well as the systems that will boost efficiency in various ways
Insulation exploration
Tim Palmer reports on the latest from the insulation sector, which plays a crucial role in ensuring that new homes are as thermally efficient as possible. What should housebuilders be aware of when choosing insulation as part of a low carbon build?
Chillout zone
Chris Windle talks to the heating manufacturers whose energy efficient systems are keeping costs and carbon down. But if new build homes are to hit the zero carbon standard, good ventilation is needed to ensure a comfortable living environment
Block steady
Kevin Stanley reports on the latest brick and block systems that bring sustainability and good aesthetics to new homes. And two years after the unexpected surge in demand following the launch of the Help to Buy equity loan, how have brick and block manufacturers adjusted?
Key points
With the government implementing a new Approved Document for security standards in October, Tim Palmer explores what manufacturers are doing to ensure that homes are better protected from crime, making customers feel safe and secure
Only connect
Chris Windle asks whether a government guide for utility firms and housebuilders will aid the smooth connection of homes to vital services, and talks to firms on the ground - including groundwork companies - that make sure that schedules are not held up
