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In both homes and commercial buildings, poor ventilation can quickly lead to a host of problems, from unhealthy mould growth to uncomfortable draughts and even dangerous conditions when gas appliances are involved. That’s why it’s so important to choose ventilation products that stop mould and don’t compromise on comfort or safety. At Stadium Building Products, we offer a wide range of solutions, but none quite like our Black Hole ventilation system, designed to intelligently manage airflow, reduce draughts, and keep spaces healthier and safer.   What Are Ventilation Products — and Why Do They Matter? Ventilation is essential in preventing the build-up of moisture and pollutants indoors. Whether it’s steam from showers, condensation in loft spaces, or the fumes from gas appliances, stale air needs to escape, and fresh air needs to flow in. When this doesn’t happen effectively, the result is often mould — a common and harmful issue that can damage property, cause health concerns, and increase energy costs. That’s why builders, landlords, and homeowners alike rely on ventilation products to stop mould and ensure year-round airflow.   Introducing the Black Hole Ventilation System Unlike traditional passive vents that let wind and air pass through freely, the Black Hole range uses an innovative airflow control method based on pressure changes and internal blade design. Here’s how it works: When wind pressure outside rises, internal vortices form behind the blades inside the Black Hole vent. These vortices restrict and slow down the incoming air, significantly reducing draughts without fully stopping airflow. When a gas appliance is in use, the vent allows air to be drawn in more efficiently, maintaining safe airflow levels for proper combustion and ventilation. In simple terms, the system works with nature, not against it. It blocks excessive cold air and draughts when they're not needed — and lets air flow freely when it's essential.   Black Hole vs. Other Types of Vents With so many types of vents on the market, it’s helpful to understand how Black Hole systems compare with other common options like louvre vents, hit and miss vents, and soffit vents.   Feature     Black Hole Vents     Louvre Vents     Hit & Miss Vents     Soffit Vents     Stops Mould     ✅ Yes     ✅ Partial     ✅ Partial     ✅ Yes     Reduces Draughts     ✅ Yes     ❌ No     ✅ Manual only     ❌ No     Prevents Blocking     ✅ Yes     ❌ No     ❌ No     ❌ No     Reduces Noise & Light     ✅ Yes     ❌ No     ✅ Partial     ❌ No     Insect Prevention     ✅ Yes     ❌ No     ✅ Partial     ❌ No     Traditional vents can allow wind, insects, light, and noise to pass through unchallenged, and because of the discomfort they create, occupants often block them off, especially during winter. This creates significant safety risks in rooms with gas appliances. The Black Hole system is engineered to solve this issue, providing essential airflow only when needed and in the right way.   The Science Behind the Magic The secret lies in the internal aerodynamic structure of the vent. As wind approaches, the air is forced to change direction sharply, which causes the formation of vortices. These vortices act like internal air brakes, slowing the airflow, dispersing the energy, and reducing its impact indoors. But when an appliance (like a gas boiler or heater) draws air in, the airflow speeds up between the vortex blades and flows more efficiently, ensuring the room receives the air it needs to operate safely and effectively. The result? A smart vent that adapts to airflow conditions without needing user input.   Key Benefits of Black Hole Ventilation Stops mould and condensation by maintaining consistent airflow Reduces draughts caused by high external wind pressure Minimises noise, light, and insect entry through clever internal baffling Discourages dangerous vent blocking by eliminating discomfort Supports compliance with British Standards and CORGI good practice for gas safety No moving parts or electronics – works passively and reliably   When Should You Use Black Hole Ventilation Products? These vents are especially effective in: Rooms with gas appliances such as boilers, heaters, or water tanks Utility cupboards and storage areas that require passive ventilation Living spaces where comfort and air quality are equally important Properties prone to wind exposure where draughts are common Rented properties where residents might otherwise block uncomfortable vents Conclusion: Ventilation Products to Stop Mould — Smarter, Safer, and More Comfortable If you’re looking for ventilation products to stop mould that also reduce draughts, cut down on noise, and improve safety, our Black Hole range offers a best-in-class solution. With no moving parts, no electronics, and no fuss, these vents adapt to conditions in real time, offering the ideal balance between airflow and comfort. Explore the Black Hole range today, or get in touch with our team to discuss the best solution for your next project.  

The Changing Landscape for Merchants in 2025 As we move through 2025, the construction and building materials sector continues to evolve at pace. Builders’ merchants are under increasing pressure to deliver faster, more reliably, and more competitively than ever before. In this new landscape, product availability for merchants is emerging as one of the most critical success factors. Rising Customer Expectations Whether you're supplying trade professionals or developers, customers expect immediate access to the products they need. Delays are no longer tolerated; next-day or even same-day delivery is fast becoming the norm. Faster Project Turnarounds Shortened project timelines mean that contractors and tradespeople can't afford to wait. If a merchant doesn't have the required stock available, customers will look elsewhere — often to competitors who can deliver on the spot. Growing Competition in the Merchant Sector With more merchants and online suppliers entering the market, differentiation is key. A reliable product range that’s consistently in stock can be the difference between a one-time customer and a loyal account. Why Product Availability is Crucial Reduces Project Delays for Customers Inconsistent stock availability can cause significant disruption to site schedules. Merchants that maintain strong stock levels play a vital role in keeping construction timelines on track. Builds Long-Term Client Loyalty When customers know they can rely on you to have what they need, they’re far more likely to return and recommend you to others. Reliability fosters trust. Enhances Operational Efficiency Maintaining the right stock levels not only benefits your customers but also streamlines your internal processes. With fewer urgent supplier requests and emergency fulfilments, your team can work smarter. Protects Your Reputation In a highly competitive market, reputation is everything. Regularly disappointing customers due to unavailable products can quickly damage your standing. Merchants known for strong product availability build stronger brands. Challenges to Maintaining Availability Global Supply Chain Disruptions Even in 2025, global supply chain volatility remains a threat. Geopolitical tensions, transport strikes, and raw material shortages can all disrupt the flow of goods. Labour and Manufacturing Shortages Reduced capacity at manufacturing plants or shortages in skilled labour continue to affect output in certain product categories, making it harder to get a consistent supply. Fluctuating Material Demand Demand surges — often influenced by weather, regulation changes, or large infrastructure projects — can catch merchants off guard. Forecasting is key, but it’s not always easy. How Merchants Can Stay Ahead Choose the Right Suppliers Working with supply partners who understand your market and have strong stock-holding capabilities is critical. Your supply chain is only as strong as its weakest link. Leverage Real-Time Inventory Technology Using inventory management software that provides real-time insights helps avoid overstocking or understocking, making sure your most in-demand products are always available. Forecast Demand More Accurately Use historical sales data, seasonal trends, and market insights to make informed purchasing decisions. Staying ahead of demand reduces the risk of product shortages. Communicate Availability Clearly to Customers Ensure your website, app, and in-branch teams have up-to-date stock visibility. Transparency helps manage expectations and keeps trust high. How Stadium Building Products Supports Merchants At Stadium Building Products, we understand how essential product availability for merchants has become. That’s why we’ve built our business around it — and why being UK-based is a key advantage for our customers. We manufacture the vast majority of our products right here in our facility in Ramsgate, Kent, giving us full control over quality and supply. Being locally based means reduced freight and shipping times, lower freight costs, and quicker turnaround times for our merchant partners. We maintain a large, reliable stock of core building products across multiple categories to ensure availability. Our agile supply chain helps ensure that even during peak periods, our merchant partners aren’t left waiting. We work proactively with merchants to anticipate demand and ensure continuity of supply. Our dedicated merchant support team ensures fast communication and efficient order fulfilment. In short, we make sure you can meet the needs of your customers without compromise. Final Thoughts As 2025 unfolds, the pressure on merchants to perform will only increase. Ensuring product availability isn’t just a logistics task — it’s a strategic priority. Those who can guarantee access to the right materials at the right time will be the ones who thrive. Looking for a supply partner who puts availability first? Contact Stadium Building Products today to find out how we can help you stay stocked, supported, and ahead of the competition.    

When it comes to essential gear for the trade, few items are as universally relied upon as the Rhino Flexi Tub. Whether you're mixing plaster, clearing garden waste, or hauling rubble, this tub is built to take it all. But does it live up to the hype? With over 200 reviews collected from trusted retailers like Wickes, Selco, and Electrical World, this product consistently impresses its users. In fact, the Rhino Flexi Tub holds an outstanding average rating of 4.82 stars — a true testament to its quality and performance.   We dug through hundreds of Rhino Flexi Tub reviews to find out what real users — from builders and plasterers to gardeners and DIYers — are actually saying. 💪 Built Tough for Trade Use A recurring theme in Rhino Flexi Tub reviews is durability. Builders and tradespeople frequently mention how these tubs outlast cheaper alternatives: “Used for mixing cement, plaster, and carrying rubble — this tub has lasted longer than any I’ve tried before.” — Dave R Many reviewers praise the reinforced design and handles that don’t give out under pressure, even when carrying heavy materials. 🪴 A Gardener’s Favourite Too It’s not just the construction industry singing its praises. Gardeners often mention the lightweight, flexible design that makes the tub perfect for outdoor work: “Perfect for collecting grass clippings, branches, and even compost. Lightweight but strong!” — Sarah B They also love how easy it is to carry — even when full — and how it stands up to regular wear and tear in the garden.   🔁 Versatile and Multi-Purpose From home renovations to cleaning up after pets, versatility is a major highlight in Rhino Flexi Tub reviews: “I've used this for everything: DIY projects, clearing out the garage, and even filling it with ice for BBQs! — Tom C The tubs come in various sizes, making them suitable for just about any task. Many customers also mention keeping more than one around the house or site. 🧽 Easy to Clean, Easy to Store Another big win, according to reviewers? Easy cleaning and storage. “I just hose it out and it’s good to go. Takes up hardly any space when nested inside another." — Lee K Some users even say they’ve used the tub in their van boots or car trunks to catch spills and keep tools organised. 🔄 Better Than Cheaper Alternatives When comparing to other brands or generic versions, the Rhino Flexi Tub stands out for value and longevity: “I’ve tried the cheaper ones — they split or the handles break after a few weeks. This one lasts.” — Kev S The feedback makes it clear: while you might pay a little more upfront, you get your money’s worth over time.   Final Thoughts Are you a stockist or retailer looking to offer the best and highest-rated Flexi Tubs on the UK market? Rhino Flexi Tubs are the perfect addition to your product range. With an outstanding average customer rating of 4.82 across hundreds of reviews, Rhino products are trusted by professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. Partnering with Rhino means supplying your customers with a durable, versatile, and proven solution that keeps them coming back. If you’re interested in stocking Rhino Flexi Tubs or want to learn more about our wholesale opportunities, get in touch! Contact... For builders, gardeners, and DIYers, Rhino Flexi Tubs are widely available at builders' merchants and major retailers across the country, including well-known names like Wickes, Selco, and Electrical World. Wherever you shop for your tools and materials, Rhino Flexi Tubs are easy to find and ready to help you get the job done right. 👉 Shop Rhino Flexi Tubs and see why the reviews speak for themselves.    

Discover why UK-made ventilation systems from Stadium Building Products offer quality, reliability, and smart value for trade stockists.

A practical guide to air vent types, their applications, and what stockists need to know In today’s construction environment, ventilation products aren’t just regulatory — they’re essential. For stockists supplying to the trade, understanding the variety of air vent solutions available empowers you to serve your customers better, meet demand, and ensure compliance on-site. In this edition of The Stockist’s Handbook, we break down the most commonly stocked types of vents from Stadium Building Products, along with their ideal uses, trade relevance, and how they support your customers' projects.   💡 New to this topic? Check out our last post: Why Ventilation Is So Important for a foundational overview.   🔍 Why Understanding Air Vent Solutions for the Trade Matters Trade customers rely on stockists not just for product availability, but for technical support and trustworthy advice. When you understand the different types of air vents and their applications, you can: Offer accurate guidance for residential and commercial projects Upsell compatible accessories and kits Align product ranges with Building Regulations Reduce returns and minimise site delays   🛠️ Core Air Vent Solutions for Trade Stockists Black Hole Ventilation Kits – Acoustic Airflow with Trade-Ready Performance Best for: Habitable rooms requiring airflow and noise reduction. These acoustic air vent kits are ideal for projects near busy roads or urban areas, where sound insulation is critical. A smart choice for housebuilders needing Part F compliance with added acoustic performance.   Core Drill Kits – A Fast Track to Through-Wall Ventilation Best for: Kitchen or bathroom extraction setups. Core drill kits offer a time-saving solution for installers, providing a clean and consistent method for venting through external walls. These are essentials for any stockist supplying to general builders or M&E contractors. Airbrick Kits – Durable Alternatives to Clay for Ventilation Best for: Subfloor airflow in new-build or renovation projects. Stadium’s plastic airbrick kits outperform traditional clay bricks in durability and ease of installation. Ideal for retrofits and consistent ventilation below suspended floors.   Cavity Liners & Extension Tubes – Complete the Ventilation Path Best for: Ensuring uninterrupted airflow through wall cavities. Often overlooked, these accessories are vital for a compliant and continuous ventilation system. Carrying a selection in multiple sizes ensures your customers always leave with the right kit. Hit & Miss Ventilators – Adjustable Internal Airflow for Trade Projects Best for: Internal room ventilation where control is needed. Popular for use in bathrooms, utility cupboards, and service areas, these vents allow adjustable airflow, perfect for public sector refurbishments and managed properties. Louvre Ventilators – Constant Airflow with Weather Protection Best for: External use in walls and doors. These fixed vents allow uninterrupted airflow while offering protection from rain and debris. They’re a trade favourite for commercial premises and utility rooms. Face Fitting Ventilators – Trade-Friendly Surface Mounting Best for: Retrofits and low-disruption installations. Surface-mounted and easy to fit, these are ideal for post-construction upgrades and quick fixes. Especially useful where internal space or wall depth is limited. Flush Fitting Ventilators – Discreet and Effective Ventilation Best for: Modern homes or commercial applications where appearance matters. These recess-mounted vents provide subtle airflow without compromising interior design, a growing trend in modern builds.   External Cowls – Weather Shields for Extractor Vent Terminations Best for: Bathroom and kitchen extractor systems. Designed to prevent backdraughts, moisture, and pests, these cowls enhance performance and protect ducting systems in damp or exposed areas. Airbricks – Essential for Ground-Level Airflow Best for: Traditional cavity and underfloor ventilation. It is lightweight, easy to install, and available in multiple finishes, a must-have for every merchant or trade counter. Through-Floor Ventilators – Ventilate Suspended Timber Floors Best for: Heritage housing and refurbishment projects. A go-to solution for older homes where airflow under floors is needed to prevent mould, rot, or rising damp.   Soffit Ventilators – Roofline Ventilation for Moisture Control Best for: New build roofs and loft conversions. Promotes airflow through lofts and roof spaces to reduce condensation. These are essentials for roofers and general contractors.   📘 Stocking the Right Ventilation Range For a full overview of our range, check out the Stadium Building Products Catalogue. Here, you’ll find product specs, size options, and volume availability, perfect for planning your stockroom or trade counter assortment. Need guidance on what to stock? Stadium supports stockists with: Volume pricing options Merchandising materials for in-store display Custom-labelled packaging on request Sales and technical literature   🌐 Suggested Further Reading To support your understanding or training resources, we recommend checking out: Approved Document F – UK Gov (official Building Regulations guidance on ventilation) NHBC Foundation – Guide to Ventilation (for residential ventilation best practices) These external resources can help enhance your product support and advice to trade customers.   📞 Ready to Partner with Stadium? We make it easy to supply high-quality, compliant air vent solutions for the trade, with fast lead times, dependable UK manufacturing, and support designed around stockist needs. 👉 Get in touch with us today to discuss stocking opportunities or technical support.  

🧱 Introduction: Stocking the Right Ventilation for the Right Job When it comes to ventilation in domestic construction, few components are as misunderstood or overlooked as soffit vents and air bricks. Both play critical roles in keeping homes dry, breathable, and compliant with regulations. For stockists, understanding when to recommend or stock each option means delivering the right product and advice to installers, contractors, and merchants. In this edition of The Stockist’s Handbook, we break down the key differences between soffit vents or air bricks, explore when each is typically specified, and showcase the trusted products available from Stadium Building Products.   🔍 Soffit Vents or Air Bricks: What’s the Difference?   Feature     Soffit Vents     Air Bricks     Application     Roofline ventilation (eaves)     Subfloor or wall ventilation     Installed in     Horizontal soffit boards     Brickwork at or below DPC level     Main purpose     Prevent condensation in roof space     Reduce moisture in underfloor voids     Airflow style     Passive, continuous airflow     Localised cross-ventilation     Appearance     Circular or rectangular grills     Brick-sized louvred or slotted units       🏠 When Should Trade Customers Use Soffit Vents? Soffit ventilators are the go-to choice for pitched roofs with eaves. Builders often install them in new builds or roof refurbishments to prevent damp and mould in loft spaces. Key advantages: Easy to install in plastic or timber soffits Inconspicuous once fitted Supports compliance with Part F of the Building Regs   🧾 Stadium Soffit Vent Products: BM406 Series – Circular Soffit Vents Colours: Brown (BM406/B), White (BM406/W) 88mm outer diameter, 76mm spigot Centres for roof pitches over 15 degrees. Free air space: 25 cm² Rated input: 12 kW Pack size: 20   BM407 Series – Rectangular Soffit Vents Colours: Brown (BM407/B), White (BM407/W) 145mm x 85mm faceplate, dual 75mm dia. spigots Free air space: 45.6 cm² Rated input: 16.1 kW Centres for roof pitches over 15 degrees. Overlapping double 76mm (3”) holes. 🧱 When Are Air Bricks the Better Choice? Air bricks are best for subfloor ventilation, wall ventilation, or serving combustion appliances. They’re often specified in refurbishment projects, timber floor installations, or homes with suspended floors.   Benefits include: Designed to match brick dimensions Various finishes to suit regional building styles Used with cavity liners or sleeves for through-wall systems   🧾 Stadium Air Brick Options:   BM481/T – Standard Airbrick (Terracotta) 216 x 76mm Free air space: 72 cm² Rated input: 21.4 kW Pack size: 50   BM483 Series – Multi-Fit Brick Colours: Terracotta (BM483/T), Sand (BM483/S), Brown (BM483/B) 216 x 76mm Free air space: 46 cm² Rated input: 16.2 kW Pack size: 10 Ribbed finish for mortar grip   BM486 Series – Double Louvre Airbricks Colours: Terracotta, Rustic Red, Sand, Brown 216 x 152mm Free air space: 125 cm² Rated input: 32 kW Pack size: 10   BM487/B – Square Hole Airbricks Brown finish 66 cm² free air space Rated input: 20.2 kW Pack size: 10   BM413 Series – Weep Ventilator Colours: Grey (BM413/G), Sand (BM413/S), Terracotta (BM413/T), Brown (BM413/B) 104 x 65 x 10mm Internal insect and water battier Pack size: 25   📦 Soffit Vents or Air Bricks: What Should Stockists Keep in Stock? For builders and contractors, both are essential. As a stockist, you should: Offer a core range of both soffit vents and air bricks Provide multiple colours and finishes to suit regional requirements Bundle with liners, sleeves, and cavity extensions to upsell complete solutions Ensure staff can advise on application use cases   📘 Related Reading Curious how this fits into wider ventilation systems? Check out our previous guide: 👉 Why Ventilation Is So Important   🌍 Useful Trade Resources NHBC Standards – Subfloor Ventilation Approved Document F – Ventilation Regulations   📥 View the Full Range Browse our full ventilation range, including soffit vents and air bricks, in the Stadium Product Catalogue.   📞 Ready to Order or Need Technical Support? We help stockists offer ventilation products with confidence. 📩 Contact our team today for pricing, merchandising, or product advice.  

If you're working on a wall or ceiling project, you've probably heard the terms plastering and skimming, and may be wondering what the actual difference is between the two. Although they’re closely related techniques in the world of internal wall finishes, knowing when to plaster vs. when to skim can help save time, improve results, and ensure you’re using the right tools for the job. In this guide, we’ll break down the difference between plastering and skimming and share the essential tools every tradesperson or DIYer needs to get the job done right. (Courtesy: Bunnings) What is Plastering? Plastering is the process of applying a thick layer of plaster (usually 6mm–13mm) to a bare surface, such as brick, blockwork, or plasterboard, to create a smooth, level finish. It's often done on new builds or renovations where the internal walls are rough or uneven. Plastering typically requires a full set of tools and materials, including: A Mixing Tray or Plasterers Mixing Bucket to prepare your plaster mix A Plasterers Bath for larger-scale work A Hawk for holding and applying plaster to the wall A Float for achieving a smooth, even surface Need the right tools for plastering?👉 Explore our full Product Catalogue to find essential plastering equipment.   (Courtesy: Homebuilding & Renovating) What is Skimming? Skimming is a finishing technique where a thin layer (around 2–3mm) of finishing plaster is applied to an already-plastered or plasterboard surface. Its purpose is to smooth out imperfections and create a flawless surface ready for painting or wallpapering. Skimming is commonly used when: You’re refreshing old or damaged plaster You're covering plasterboard joins You need a high-end finish without full plaster depth The tools you’ll need for skimming are often the same as plastering, including a hawk and float, but with an emphasis on finer control and a smoother finish. Want professional results?🎯 See our Product Catalogue for top-quality skimming tools and materials. Key Differences Between Plastering and Skimming Feature Plastering Skimming Purpose Base coat over brick/block Smooth finish over existing surface Thickness 6mm–13mm 2mm–3mm Surface Requirement Bare or uneven surfaces Smooth or pre-plastered surfaces Materials Used Bonding plaster or hardwall Finishing plaster (multi-finish) Typical Tools Mixing tray, bath, hawk, float Hawk, float, finishing trowel Tools of the Trade (All Available from Stadium Building Products) Whether you’re plastering from scratch or applying a skim coat, the right tools make all the difference. At Stadium Building Products, we supply everything you need to get a professional finish, including: Mixing Trays – Durable and easy to clean for all mixing needs Plasterers Mixing Buckets – Perfect for smaller jobs and manageable mixes Plasterers Baths – Ideal for large-volume mixing Hawks – Lightweight and comfortable for extended use Floats – Essential for smooth, even surfaces 👉 Browse our Product Catalogue now to get your hands on professional-grade plastering and skimming gear. Final Thoughts Understanding the difference between plastering and skimming helps you choose the right method and tools for your project. Plastering builds a solid foundation, while skimming perfects the finish. Whether you're tackling a major renovation or prepping a single wall for painting, having the correct tools at hand is essential. At Stadium Building Products, we’ve got everything you need — all in one place. Ready to Get Started? If you’re looking for trusted, trade-quality tools and materials for plastering or skimming, we’ve got you covered. Click here to view our full Product Catalogue and get everything you need for your next job. You can also contact us directly here.