NI Firm Lifts Product Of The Year Award

An Ulster manufacturer's self-adhesive building product has picked-up a top industry award in London.

Classic Marble's Classi Seal was named UK Housing Product of the Year at the Housebuilding

Innovation Awards 2008, earlier this month.

The London event, held in the exclusive Millennium Mayfair, was hosted by BBC presenter John Humphrys.

Classic Marble vied for the coveted award against four of the industries most respected innovators.

The accolade recognises firms who have made a real difference with innovative new house building products, and is supported by the government to create an impetus for raising industry standards.

Judges for the award included Stewart Baseley- Executive Chairman, HBF (Home Builders

Federation) and Imitaz Farookhi - Chief Executive, NHBC (National House Builders Council)

According to its manufacturers, Classi Seal has developed a solid reputation as an essential house building product.

In 2006 it was awarded the Best Interior Product and Best Innovation accolades at the Dublin PlanExpo.

Used around the wall connecting sides of baths and shower trays, Classi-Seal is a flexible

self adhesive waterproof upstand.

The system completely eliminates the potential for water leakage within these areas and is an effective insurance policy against costly repairs caused by inevitable shrinkage and settlement.

The materials elasticity allows for movement of 15mm, whilst guaranteeing a watertight seal.

Sales and Marketing Director Christopher Hackett (pictured with Award sponsor Van Handley of Van Elle and the BBC's John Humphrys) said: "We are delighted to have won this award, considering the caliber of entries and also the significance of these awards within the industry.

"It is wonderful recognition for all the development and hard work that has gone into the design and manufacture of Classi Seal."

(PR/JM)