Wednesday, 3 December 2025

Contruct a simple DIY 6m x 4m garden room for £1500 - an excellent educational video showing how those on low incomes can gather low cost reusable materials from local businesses & online marketplaces

I found an excellent educational video showing how those on low incomes can gather low cost reusable materials from local businesses & online marketplaces to contruct a simple DIY 6m x 4m garden room for £1500 For those with a bigger budget, this is one of the other best videos on how to Build a garden room with no building skills at all! Insulated metal clad panels build pack with FB info support group

1st draft of a UK-specific, practical emergency hardware kit you can assemble in advance to protect windows and doors by securing plywood, OSB, or even detached fence panels to external walls when a severe storm (up to ~120 mph gusts) is imminent.

 

Below is a UK-specific, practical emergency hardware kit you can assemble in advance to protect windows and doors by securing plywood, OSB, or even detached fence panels to external walls when a severe storm (up to ~120 mph gusts) is imminent.

I’ve included:

  1. What the kit should contain,

  2. How to estimate fixing quantities per window,

  3. Optional but highly recommended extras,

  4. Guidance on using fence panels as a last-resort material.


1. Core items for the Emergency Window-Protection Hardware Kit

A. Wall plugs (for masonry fixing)

  • Type: UK brown (7mm drill) or blue (10mm drill) masonry plugs.

  • Strength: Choose high-grip, anti-rotation types.

B. Exterior screws

  • Type: Normal screws or ideally A2/A4 stainless steel or exterior-grade coated wood screws (to avoid snapping under load or corroding).

  • Length:

    • For 18mm plywood/OSB5.0 × 70 mm screws

    • For fence panels (25–45mm thick frames)5.0 × 100 mm screws

C. Penny washers

  • Large diameter: M5 or M6, 25–30 mm OD
    Washer spreads load, stopping the screw head pulling through under suction loads.

D. Drill bits

  • 7mm and 10mm masonry bits (match your wall plugs)

  • 3–4mm pilot bit for pre-drilling the wood panel

E. Driver bits

  • PZ2 and PZ3 impact-rated bits.

F. Seal/anti-lift tape or foam

Used to:

  • Reduce panel rattle

  • Reduce wind getting behind the panel
    Suitable materials:

  • High-tack exterior duct tape

  • EPDM window sealing foam strip (self-adhesive)

G. Marking & measuring tools

  • Sharpie or lumber crayon

  • Tape measure

  • Masking tape (to label panel/window locations)

H. PPE

  • Safety glasses

  • Dust mask

  • Gloves

  • Ear protection (drilling)


2. Estimate: Amount of Screws & Wall Plugs Needed (for 120 mph gusts)

Load assumption

Storm-rated boarding in hurricane regions uses 6–8" screw spacing around edges.
For the UK, 120 mph gusts are extreme, so we use hurricane-standard density:

Recommended screw spacing for plywood/OSB panels

  • Every 150–200 mm around the perimeter

  • Every 300–400 mm on internal lines (if panel is large)

  • Minimum 12 screws per typical window board

Typical UK window sizes

Let’s estimate for 3 common types:

Window Size

Typical board size

Screws per panel (120 mph spec)

600 × 900 mm (small)

One sheet

12 screws

900 × 1200 mm (medium)

One sheet

16–20 screws

1200 × 1500 mm (large)

One sheet

24–28 screws

Whole-house estimate

Assuming an average UK 3-bed semi with ~10 windows:

  • 3 small windows → 3 × 12 = 36 screws

  • 5 medium windows → 5 × 18 ≈ 90 screws

  • 2 large windows → 2 × 26 ≈ 52 screws

Total: ~180 screws + 180 wall plugs + 180 penny washers

Add a 20% safety margin:

➡️ Pack 220–240 plugs, screws, and washers.

Screw sizes to include

  • 150 × 5.0 × 70 mm screws (for plywood/OSB)

  • 100 × 5.0 × 100 mm screws (for thick or warped fence panels)


3. Additional Structure-Saving Items to Include

1. Heavy-duty straps or ratchet straps

  • Useful for wrapping around large panels or awkward openings.

  • Also allows securing fence panels without relying solely on screws.

2. Timber battens (optional but helpful)

  • 25×50mm or 38×63mm battens

  • Can be screwed over the top of panels to clamp them tightly to the wall

  • Great for fence panels which may flex or split

3. Silicone or exterior caulk

  • For sealing large air gaps where wind might get behind a panel.

4. Spare pilot screws

  • Small screws (e.g., 4.0 × 40mm) to temporarily hold panels in place before the main fixings go in.

5. Battery backup & chargers

  • Fully charged spare drill batteries

  • A manual screwdriver in case power tools fail

6. Weatherproofing

  • Exterior-grade tarp for emergency covering

  • Sandbags or water-weight bags to reduce uplift around doors


4. Using Garden Fence Panels as Emergency Boarding (when materials sell out)

Fence panels are not ideal but can work in emergencies if reinforced.

Tips:

  1. Remove the decorative slats if possible—use the solid frame.

  2. Pre-drill through the thicker frame sections only.

  3. Use longer 100 mm screws.

  4. Add battens across the back to stiffen weak areas.

  5. Use straps if the panel is too large to safely screw in many points.

Fence panels can catch the wind like a sail—so prevent gaps on all sides.


5. Full Recommended Emergency Hardware Kit (UK)

Fixings & tools

  • 240 × wall plugs (brown/blue heavy-duty)

  • 150 × 5.0 × 70 mm exterior screws

  • 100 × 5.0 × 100 mm exterior screws

  • 240 × penny washers (M5/M6 × 25–30mm)

  • Masonry drill bits (7mm + 10mm)

  • Wood/pilot drill bits

  • Exterior duct tape

  • EPDM foam sealing strip

  • Ratchet straps (2–4)

  • 25–50mm battens (6–10 pieces)

  • Permanent marker

  • Tape measure

  • Safety gear: gloves, glasses, dust mask

  • Manual screwdriver + impact driver bits

  • Spare drill batteries

Optional

  • Tarp, sandbags, caulk



Below are three printable items you can copy/paste into a document and print:

  1. A checklist,

  2. A per-window calculation sheet,

  3. A simple screw-spacing diagram (ASCII printable).

To help with clarity, I’ve also added small image groups for visual reference near the diagram section — these won’t interfere with printing if you copy only the text.


✅ 1. PRINTABLE EMERGENCY HARDWARE KIT CHECKLIST (UK)

(Black & white friendly – no images inside the text)

=====================================
 EMERGENCY WINDOW STORM-PROTECTION KIT
=====================================

TOOLS
[ ] Cordless drill + charger
[ ] Spare drill battery
[ ] Manual screwdriver (PZ2/PZ3)
[ ] Tape measure
[ ] Permanent marker or pencil
[ ] Utility knife / scissors
[ ] Safety glasses
[ ] Gloves
[ ] Dust mask / ear protection

FIXINGS (for plywood, OSB, or fence panels)
[ ] 250 heavy-duty masonry wall plugs (brown or blue)
[ ] 150 exterior screws 5.0 × 70 mm (plywood/OSB)
[ ] 100 exterior screws 5.0 × 100 mm (thick/fence panels)
[ ] 250 penny washers (25–30 mm outer diameter)

DRILL BITS
[ ] 7 mm masonry bit (brown plugs)
[ ] 10 mm masonry bit (blue plugs)
[ ] 3–4 mm wood pilot bit

SEALING / ANTI-LIFT MATERIALS
[ ] High-tack exterior duct tape
[ ] EPDM foam sealing tape (for gaps)
[ ] Silicone / exterior caulk (optional)

REINFORCEMENT
[ ] Timber battens 25×50 mm or 38×63 mm (6–10 pieces)
[ ] Ratchet straps or heavy-duty tie-down straps (2–4)

EMERGENCY MATERIALS
[ ] Spare panels (plywood/OSB if available)
[ ] Tarp or plastic sheeting
[ ] Sandbags / water-filled weights

NOTES
- Label each window panel when cutting (e.g., “Kitchen Left Window”)
- Keep all items in one waterproof storage box
- Check battery charge every 2–3 months
=====================================

? 2. PRINTABLE PER-WINDOW CALCULATION SHEET

(You can print multiple copies — one per window during preparation or an emergency.)

=====================================
      WINDOW BOARDING CALCULATION SHEET
=====================================

WINDOW LOCATION: ______________________________________

WINDOW SIZE (mm):
   Width: ________   Height: ________

PANEL MATERIAL USED:
[ ] Plywood (____ mm)
[ ] OSB (____ mm)
[ ] Fence panel (frame thickness: ____ mm)

PANEL DIMENSIONS CUT (mm):
   Width: ________   Height: ________

-------------------------------------
 FIXING CALCULATION
-------------------------------------

PERIMETER SCREW SPACING:
   Target: 150–200 mm spacing

Perimeter length:
   (Width × 2 + Height × 2) = ______ mm
Number of screws required around edge:
   Perimeter ÷ 180 mm ≈ __________ screws

INTERNAL FIXINGS (if panel > 1200 mm on any side):
   Add 1 internal vertical line: ______ screws
   Add 1 internal horizontal line: ______ screws

TOTAL SCREWS REQUIRED: __________

MATCHING QUANTITIES:
Wall plugs needed (same number): __________
Penny washers (same number): __________

-------------------------------------
 ANTI-LIFT / SEALING CHECK
-------------------------------------
[ ] EPDM foam applied to edges
[ ] Duct tape applied to top/side seams
[ ] Bottom edge sealed to stop wind entry
[ ] Battens used?  YES / NO

-------------------------------------
 INSTALLATION NOTES
-------------------------------------
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________

=====================================

? 3. PRINTABLE SCREW-SPACING DIAGRAM

Below is a text-only diagram (copy/paste prints cleanly).
Shows recommended screw spacing for 120 mph gust protection.

========================================================
             SCREW SPACING DIAGRAM (PRINTABLE)
========================================================

Top Edge
150–200 mm spacing between screws
   -------------------------------------------------
   |     o      o      o      o      o      o     |
   -------------------------------------------------

Left Edge (150–200 mm)                 Right Edge (150–200 mm)
   | o                                 o |
   |                                    |
   | o                                 o |
   |                                    |
   | o                                 o |
   |                                    |
   | o                                 o |
   |                                    |
   | o                                 o |
   |                                    |
   | o                                 o |


Sunday, 23 November 2025

A practical problem in many hurricane / cyclone-prone places: when a storm is imminent, retail supplies (plywood, plastic panels, screws, clips, etc.) sell out fast, so what to do?

 

A practical problem in many hurricane / cyclone-prone places: when a storm is imminent, retail supplies (plywood, plastic panels, screws, clips, etc.) sell out fast, so building owners, property managers and communities rely on a mix of permanent systems, pre-staged reusable panels, municipal stockpiles, and clever multi-use/reused materials that can be converted quickly.

 Below I summarise the storage & preparation systems used around the world, give concrete examples and sources, and finish with a highly practical checklist and storage / conversion ideas you can implement.


What countries / owners actually do (high level)

  1. Install permanent, ready-to-deploy systems so there’s nothing to buy at the last minute: roll-down shutters, accordion shutters, metal/aluminium panels on tracks, and Bahama/hinged shutters that fold or prop down. These are stored on the building (tracks, housings, hinges) and are deployed by the owner or by maintenance staff when a storm approaches. (industry guides / supplier pages & municipal advice). expertshutters.com+1

  2. Pre-cut, pre-drilled plywood or panel kits kept on-site: many local governments recommend (or require for inspections) that plywood panels be pre-cut to the exact window sizes and kept with the mounting hardware so they can be installed quickly. Some jurisdictions require pre-drilled fastener points and permanently-installed clips or anchors on the building wall so the panels can be fitted rapidly. Example: city guidance on plywood hurricane panels. mygulfport.us+1

  3. Reusable engineered panels: polycarbonate “clearboarding” or aluminium storm panels are reusable, lighter than plywood, and can be stored stacked or on racks; they can be cut to size before season and reused year-to-year. These are promoted where long-term cost/effort justify the investment. randrmagonline.com

  4. Municipal / state stockpiles and rapid-response stores: some states and national agencies keep central storehouses of hurricane supplies for emergency response — this helps relieve retail shortages and supplies community response teams. There are also community resilience programs that preposition materials. (news and government reports). youtube.com+1

  5. Reused or multipurpose materials — frequently used when resources are constrained:

    • Plywood that’s reused season-to-season (inspect & dry before storing). Window Hardware Direct

    • Fence panels, pallet wood or other on-site timber that is built so it can be removed and repurposed as window/door boards in an emergency (DIY examples and local practice). youtube.com+1

    • Salvaged shutters used as fencing or decorative elements during calm months and stored/hung for quick deployment in storms (common DIY / Caribbean practice). Pinterest+1


Concrete examples & sources

  • Polycarbonate clearboarding (reusable, transparent panels) — commercial product and field trials: marketed as a reusable, strong alternative to plywood that can be cut on site and reused year after year. Good where visibility / light is desired. randrmagonline.com

  • City of Gulfport (example of local regulation / best practice) — guidance that panels should be pre-cut and have mounting hardware permanently installed (helps speed installation and reduces last-minute shopping). Shows how municipalities reduce friction by advising/pre-specifying panel sizes and hardware. mygulfport.us

  • How-to / DIY examples converting fence pickets or panels into shutters — many practical videos and DIY writeups show fence pickets or panels can be fastened into shutter-style boards for windows; these are low-cost, multi-use approaches often used by homeowners with limited budgets. (DIY videos / Instructables). youtube.com+1

  • Guides that recommend pre-cut plywood storage & reuse tips — trade/retailer and homeowner guidance on cutting, storing, drying and reusing plywood panels and keeping fasteners and clips together in labelled containers. These sources give practical steps for season-to-season reuse. Window Hardware Direct+1

  • Retail / hardware solutions for faster installation — universal reusable plywood clips and pre-made panel systems sold in hardware stores so panels can be stored and clipped into place quickly. These reduce labour/time at the last minute. Amazon


How building owners cope with retail shortages — practical strategies used in the field

  1. Avoid last-minute purchasing by pre-staging: pre-cut panels (plywood, polycarbonate or aluminium) stored on site (garage, shed, attic) labeled for each opening with its hardware bag. Many municipalities explicitly recommend pre-cut panels to avoid in-store stockouts. mygulfport.us+1

  2. Install permanent systems where possible: roll-down, accordion or Bahama shutters are kept installed or in housings on the façade — no mass buying required before a storm. They are common in higher-risk areas (Caribbean, Florida, Gulf states). expertshutters.com+1

  3. Use multi-purpose elements that have day-to-day use: build fencing, gates, pergolas or decorative external panels so they can be removed/converted into storm panels. Example: fence panels designed with uniform board size and removable fixings so sections can be unbolted and used as boards. DIYers and some retrofits intentionally use this approach. youtube.com+1

  4. Community pooling and municipal stockpiles: apartment complexes, homeowner associations and municipalities sometimes maintain bulk supplies (cut panels, fasteners, clips) that can be loaned or rented to owners during storms — this helps when retail disappears. Evidence of state warehouse & stockpile programs exists in multiple jurisdictions. youtube.com+1

  5. Use lighter reusable engineered panels: aluminium or polycarbonate panels are lighter, reusable and stackable — easier to store and faster to handle than raw plywood. They are also less likely to warp in storage. randrmagonline.com

  6. Contracts with local installers: many commercial building owners and some HOAs have seasonal contracts with installers who will install shutters/panels on short notice (priority service), avoiding the need to source materials individually. (Common industry practice; local directories and suppliers reference this). Riot Glass


Specific ideas for reused materials and multi-use storage (the part you asked about)

Below are proven-or-practical patterns where materials in everyday use are also stored/kept so they can quickly convert to shutters/boards:

  1. Fence panels built with removable fixings — build fence sections so a few planks are through-bolted to horizontal rails; in an emergency you remove the through-bolts and take the planks to be used as window boards. Many DIY videos demonstrate making shutters from fence pickets. (If you design fences this way you get everyday function plus emergency use). youtube.com+1

  2. Bahama/louvered shutters that double as awnings/fencing — in Caribbean architecture, Bahama shutters are a day-to-day sun/ventilation feature that can be closed and secured during storms — they already sit on the building so nothing needs to be bought. On some properties people re-use old Bahama louvered panels as fencing (and vice versa) so the element has two lives. Barfield Fence and Fabrication+1

  3. Pallets / reclaimed boards stored & maintained — reclaimed pallet wood or old fencing can be stored stacked and repurposed to create slatted shutters if necessary. Not as strong as manufactured panels, but widely used in low-resource contexts. (multiple DIY / community recovery examples). Instructables+1

  4. Pre-mounted panel racks and hooks — keep aluminium or polycarbonate panels on wall hooks in garage/utility rooms (vertical storage), so they’re immediately available. This is a common storage best practice in areas that use reusable panels. randrmagonline.com+1

  5. Labelled hardware kits — for reused panels (plywood or fences converted into panels), keep bolt kits and a labelled template for each opening so any resident/worker can fit the panel quickly. Many how-to guides stress pre-drilling and keeping fasteners together. flsp.uscourts.gov+1


Quick, practical checklist you can act on today

(These are low-cost steps likely to survive retail shortages)

  1. Inventory your openings (measure each window/door) and make a diagram with labelled dimensions.

  2. Pre-cut / pre-make — cut plywood or panels to size and pre-drill holes for anchor bolts; label each panel with the room/window ID and store hardware in a labelled zip bag taped to the panel. (Municipal guidance recommends this.) mygulfport.us+1

  3. Use multi-use design — if building a fence or external screens, design boards so they can be unbolted and used as storm boards (uniform board widths, standard nuts/bolts). Keep spare rails and bolts in a kit. Lowe's+1

  4. Adopt reusable panels where you can — consider polycarbonate or aluminium storm panels that stack and re-use. Store them on racks or hang them on wall hooks. randrmagonline.com

  5. Store correctly — keep wood panels flat, elevated, and dry (to avoid warping/mould); keep metal panels off the ground and labelled; keep clips/bolts in rust-proof containers. Window Hardware Direct

  6. Make an installation plan — who installs, how long it takes, and where tools/hardware are — practice once off-season so you know the process. Consider a contract with a local installer for priority storm service. Riot Glass

  7. Community pooling — if you’re in an apartment block, HOA or small community, coordinate a shared stockpile and rotating responsibility for maintaining it. Municipal stockpiles exist in some places — check local emergency management. youtube.com+1


Limitations & practical cautions

  • Plywood is heavy and can fail if not anchored correctly. Proper mounting matters more than material alone — pre-drilled panels and permanent anchors reduce failures. flsp.uscourts.gov

  • Reused materials (pallets, fence boards) may be inferior in strength to purpose-built aluminium panels; they’re better than nothing but inspect and reinforce. Instructables+1

  • Local codes / insurance may require certified shutters or impact glazing for compliance — check local building code and insurance requirements before relying on DIY conversion for repeated use. (City/municipal guidance often spells this out). mygulfport.us




Friday, 31 October 2025

Subject: Preparing Communities for Climate Change, Economic Insecurity and AI-driven Job Disruption through Practical, Scalable Solutions from Cabinz CIC

 

Subject: Preparing Communities for Climate Change, Economic Insecurity and AI-driven Job Disruption through Practical, Scalable Solutions from Cabinz CIC

Hello,

As we face three of the greatest challenges of our time—the accelerating consequences of climate change, the transformation of work due to artificial intelligence plus automation and increasing global economic and political insecurity. 

It is vital that we begin preparing resilient, community-based solutions for stronger shelters now.

Cabinz CIC, an eleven-year-old social enterprise based in Saltney, Flintshire, is developing scalable, low-cost strategies to help communities adapt. We are in a unique position today as we have secured access to thousands of metres of clearance stock insulated metal panels (IMPs) for £8-£18 a metre.

These are from a Flintshire building company, which alongside millions of high-quality, low cost screws and fixings from Cabinz cics' own stock, enables us to deliver practical solutions to DIY simple shelters affordably and at scale.

We would like to highlight key initiatives we have worked on for several years:


1. Stronger Affordable Shelters

We are working with local allotment groups in Flintshire and Cheshire to create fire-resistant, storm-resilient shelters using IMPs. Recent events, such as the Chester Whipcord allotment fire, show how vulnerable current wood structures are.

By supplying clearance stock materials at a fraction of their usual cost, Cabinz CIC is working to provide DIY kits for community groups, small businesses & DIY'ers enabling them to build durable garden rooms, workshops, and recreational facilities as well. These shelters will better withstand storms, fires, and other climate-related risks. They may also be used for civil defence (see point 5)

We are researching and encouraging others to build shelters in these designs, though some may need development and prototyping :

(of course they can build a rectangular one from a £100 build pack from Garden Room Guru

who have just offered a nice alu frame garden room base


1.  Six Foot Stretch Hexayurt

2.    Larger version of a H4 Hexayurt

3.  Arched shelters from wood / scaffold tube / gas pipe hoop / frame like this chicken coop one we supplied materials to. 

4. Safe T Home® cylindrical shelter of corrugated sheets based on grain silo design

5. hexayurt walled shelter with a flat roof

6. Dual Pitch roof shelter with 4m height to roof.

7. Rectangular shelters using IMP panels then with trellis made from wood battening angled to deflect wind, forming a hexagonal overall shape  

 

2. 'Gap Rooms' Storage & Reuse Infill Development prototype will be filmed by..

Garages across the UK are overflowing, often preventing effective reuse and recycling. Our proposal is for modular storage rooms, built using pallet racking and covered with insulated panels, to be installed above passageways or at the side of buildings. These structures could:

  • Free up garages for active use,

  • Support reuse initiatives by providing secure storage,

  • Incorporate water-harvesting systems,

  • Blend with local architecture through finishes like brick veneer or wood cladding.

This design not only supports sustainable living but also helps families and small businesses manage limited space more effectively.


3. Building Resistance Matrix Programme (BRMP)

The BRMP is designed to reinforce and insulate vulnerable buildings, sheds, greenhouses, and animal shelters, making them more resistant to floods and high winds.

By leveraging our vast supply of affordable fixings and reclaimed materials, communities can cost-effectively strengthen small but vital structures—reducing risks of damage and protecting food security through flood-resistant raised beds.

These practical steps can form the foundation of a larger national resilience effort, helping the UK to prepare not only for extreme weather but also for the socioeconomic shifts that automation and AI will bring. By equipping communities with affordable resources and practical designs, we can support cottage industries, reduce waste, and promote self-reliance and self-employment.

By creating wider access to low cost premises at scale, mental and physical health will be improved. 

4.DIGRS Project  DIY very low cost insulated room dividing / shelter Mk 1 panels to save energy in the winter / reduce heat in summer

Cabinz are working with Vinay Gupta, Inventor of the Hexayurt emergency shelter to produce prototypes of external shelters with IMP panels and internal room dividers using the Hexayurt taping method with foil backed panels available from Secondsandco.co.uk . Cabinz Cic has previously produced prototypes of insulated panels from wood battens and fabric joined together with low cost tools and a variety of insulation (see link) as part .

Panels can be used to make small indoor shelters as well as room dividers. Trellis and green walls can help insulate external walls. Panel offcuts can be used to make animal shelters or security / storm shutters.

  1. 5. Civic Protection and Emergency Community Shelters

    We are working on a national project to design and produce internal and external storm and security shutters made from Insulated Metal Panels (IMPs), with the option to add solar panels for renewable energy generation.

    Small garden-rooms built from insulated metal panels (IMPs) can serve as above-ground refuges or safe rooms and used for normal purposes. Because they are lighter and simpler than traditional masonry, they can then be converted with external protection layers (sandbags, soil, or concrete) to resist storm winds debris.

    We have donated tools and medical equipment to Ukraine and researched protective shutters reusing materials. In a war zone, such rooms can provide safer shelter than staying inside a brick house, where bricks may become lethal shrapnel in a blast or missile strike.

Larger community shelters could follow a similar principle using prefab kits to create semi-underground or fully underground bunkers on public land. These can be cheaper, flexible, and allow self-build for groups or municipalities on a budget.

A relevant demonstration (on protective layering of structures) can be seen here:

prefab kit to self-build underground shelters on a budget

 www.vikingshelters.com

Appendix: Alternatives to Garden Rooms and Modular Buildings
If AI disrupts employment and incomes collapse, garden rooms and modular buildings are one of the strongest solutions — but not the only one. Alternatives include:


1. Tiny Homes / Modular Micro-Housing: Stand alone micro-houses produced from timber, SIPs, or shipping containers.
2. Community Land Trust Housing: Cooperative low-cost housing, replacing rent with contributions in labour or produce.
3. Shipping Container Conversions: Durable, portable, but requiring insulation.
4. Earth Shelters / Natural Building: Cob, rammed earth, or straw bale construction, labour-intensive but low cost.

5. Community-Scale Shared Facilities: Dormitory-style living with shared kitchens, workshops, and gardens.
Garden rooms and modular buildings stand out because they combine affordability, speed of deployment, resilience to weather, and flexibility of use.




Our Request
We ask for your support in:

  • Recognising these initiatives as part of local and national planning for climate resilience, affordable business premises and civil defence. 

  • Helping us connect with councils, housing associations, and community groups who could benefit.

  • Exploring partnerships to scale these solutions more widely.

With access to affordable, durable materials, Cabinz CIC can help communities build resilience, support reuse, and prepare for the future of work in a changing climate.

Thank you for considering these proposals. We would welcome the opportunity to discuss how we can collaborate with government, councils, and businesses to make these ideas a reality.

Yours sincerely,
Paul Ridley
Director, Cabinz CIC
Saltney, Flintshire

cabinznet@gmail.com 

Proposal to provide low-cost loans & targeted grants for storm shutters (including insulated metal panels and roller shutters) and roof “hurricane” tie-downs — fast, affordable, high-impact resilience for households & small businesses

 

Executive Summary

Hurricane Melissa has highlighted the growing intensity of Atlantic storms, with experts linking these events to climate change. In the UK, the Met Office warns of increasing risks from high winds and extreme weather. Installing storm shutters — including modern insulated metal panels (IMPs) and roller shutters that double as anti-burglary and energy-saving devices — together with roof hurricane ties, offers one of the most cost-effective means to protect people, property, and small businesses.

We recommend a national and local scheme of low-cost loans and means-tested grants, using proven models from the US, Australia, and New Zealand, to make these upgrades affordable and widespread.


1) Why Now — Evidence & Urgency

  • Recent Event: Hurricane Melissa (Oct 2025) caused devastating damage across the Caribbean, underscoring how climate change is driving stronger storms.

  • UK Outlook: The Met Office warns of increasing storm intensity, coastal wind events, and rainfall extremes across the UK. These will threaten homes, businesses, and supply chains.

  • Cost–Benefit Evidence: Studies from the US and Australia show that retrofitted shutters and roof tie-downs significantly reduce storm damage. These measures pay for themselves in avoided losses within a few years, and can also lower insurance premiums.


2) What to Promote — Simple, Proven, Affordable Resilience

A. Dual-Purpose Storm Shutters

  1. Insulated Metal Panels (IMPs)

    • IMPs are strong, pre-fabricated panels with a steel or aluminium exterior and rigid foam insulation core.

    • When installed as external storm shutters or fixed panels, they provide exceptional impact resistance, thermal insulation, and enhanced building security.

    • They offer dual benefits: storm protection, energy efficiency, and anti-burglary resistance.

    • IMPs can be manufactured in the UK, stimulating local fabrication and construction supply chains.

  2. Roller or Security Shutters

    • Tested for debris impact and high-wind resistance, roller shutters remain the most widespread solution for windows and doors.

    • They double as security shutters, preventing break-ins and reducing insurance claims.

    • Combining roller shutters on openings with fixed or hinged IMP panels on larger glazed areas or vulnerable façades gives a comprehensive protection package.

B. Roof-to-Wall Connectors / Hurricane Ties

  • Simple metal connectors that fasten roof trusses to wall plates to prevent uplift in high winds.

  • Very low material cost, simple installation, and proven effectiveness in hurricane and storm zones worldwide.

C. Package Design

A “Home and Business Storm Protection Kit” could combine:

  • IMPs or roller shutters for windows/doors

  • Roof hurricane ties

  • Optional storm-door reinforcement kits

This offers layered protection with minimal structural disruption.


3) International Models

  • Queensland, Australia — Household Resilience Program:
    Offers grants covering up to 80% of costs for cyclone shutters and roof tie-downs. IMP-style insulated shutters are an eligible material due to their dual energy and cyclone performance.

  • United States — FEMA & State Programs:
    Programs such as My Safe Florida Home fund storm shutters (including impact-resistant metal panels and roll-down systems) and roof anchoring.

  • New Zealand — Regional Resilience Funds:
    Provides targeted support for home-hardening and hazard mitigation using similar, low-cost retrofit models.


4) Proposed UK Scheme

A. Funding Model

  • Means-Tested Grants: Cover up to 75% of retrofit costs (up to £8,000 per property).

  • Low-Interest Loans: 0–2% APR for remaining costs, repayable over 3–7 years.

  • Full Funding for Critical Infrastructure: Small care homes, GP surgeries, community hubs, and SMEs vital to local economies.

B. Procurement and Local Jobs

  • Councils and combined authorities to bulk-procure IMPs and shutters for cost savings.

  • Partner with UK steel and panel manufacturers to promote domestic production of insulated storm shutters.

  • Train local installers and small contractors to carry out installations safely and consistently.

C. Regulation & Insurance

  • Engage insurers to offer premium reductions for properties with certified shutters or roof-tie upgrades.

  • Consider temporary council tax rebates for early adopters.


5) Estimated Costs

MeasureTypical Cost (per property)Notes
Roller or security shutters£2,500–£6,000Depending on number/size of windows
IMP storm shutters (fixed/hinged)£3,000–£8,000Higher strength & insulation; longer lifespan
Roof hurricane ties£300–£1,000Depends on roof structure
Total (combined)£3,500–£9,000Average for semi-detached or small business unit

Sunday, 28 September 2025

Building Resilient Communities in the Age of AI and Climate Change through Stronger Shelters

 Briefing Document


Building Resilient Communities in the Age of AI and Climate Change through Stronger Shelters
Executive Summary


Artificial Intelligence is accelerating structural change across the global economy. Millions of jobs will be displaced
in the coming years, undermining wages and the ability of households to pay rent or mortgages. At the same time,
the impacts of climate change – including stronger storms and energy instability – are intensifying pressures on
housing and community infrastructure.
To address these challenges, this briefing sets out the urgent case for:
1. Large-scale deployment of garden rooms and modular buildings built from insulated composite metal
panels.
2. Expansion of reuse and repair industries, supported by decentralised workshops.
3. Integration of garden rooms and modular buildings into agricultural and rural development strategies, to
secure food supply and strengthen local economies.


1. The Case for Garden Rooms and Modular Buildings
Affordable & Lower Cost
Stronger & More Resilient Withstands winds up to 150 mph.
50% lighter than brick/concrete – portable and redeployable.
Multi-Purpose & Adaptable • Housing: Affordable living spaces.
• Work & Enterprise: Home offices and workshops.
• Emergency Uses: Housing, storage, civil defence.
• Agriculture & Food Supply: Installed in allotments and farms, supporting food secur
Energy Efficiency U-values as low as 0.13 W/m²K (vs 0.45–0.60 W/m²K for single-skin builds).


2. Reuse and Repair: A Critical Economic Sector
• The UK produces 22 million tonnes of household waste annually, with only 44% recycled.
• Repair and reuse industries could capture an additional £7 billion annually in retained value.
• Repairable goods sent to landfill include:
– 1.4 million tonnes of electronics.
– 336,000 tonnes of textiles.
Many of these activities can be carried out in garden rooms and modular buildings, helping people generate
income without reliance on commercial property.
 

3. Policy Implications and Leadership Role
Support for Mass Production: Encourage local manufacturing of insulated composite panels and streamline
planning for garden rooms and modular buildings.
Integration into Resilience Planning: Pre-deploy modular units for emergency housing and disaster relief;
include them in local climate adaptation plans.
Agriculture & Food Security: Install units in allotments and farms to reduce crop losses from poor storage.
Reducing post-harvest losses by 10% in the UK could feed 2 million more people annually.
Promotion of Reuse & Repair: Support training and community-led repair enterprises; councils can provide land
for garden rooms and modular workshops.
Conclusion
The combined pressures of artificial intelligence and climate change require urgent adaptation. By investing in
garden rooms and modular buildings, expanding reuse and repair industries, and supporting food security
through agricultural deployment, we can:
• Provide affordable housing and workspace.
• Strengthen climate resilience.
• Ensure a more secure and sustainable food supply.
• Build local economies based on reuse, repair, and self-reliance.
This is not a matter of luxury – it is a matter of foresight, preparedness, and responsibility.
Appendix: Alternatives to Garden Rooms and Modular Buildings


If AI disrupts employment and incomes collapse, garden rooms and modular buildings are one of the strongest solutions — but not the only one. Alternatives include:


1. Tiny Homes / Modular Micro-Housing: Standalone micro-houses produced from timber, SIPs, or shipping containers.
2. Community Land Trust Housing: Cooperative low-cost housing, replacing rent with contributions in labour or produce.
3. Shipping Container Conversions: Durable, portable, but requiring insulation.
4. Earth Shelters / Natural Building: Cob, rammed earth, or straw bale construction, labour-intensive but low cost.
5. Council-Supported Land Allotments: Councils offer land for self-built shelters, combining housing with food production.
6. Community-Scale Shared Facilities: Dormitory-style living with shared kitchens, workshops, and gardens.

 Garden rooms and modular buildings stand out because they combine affordability, speed of deployment, resilience to weather, and flexibility of use.

Saturday, 30 August 2025

We are now selling a large stock of insulated metal panels (IMPS) in 2 grades £18 and £8 a metre 1-6m long x 1m wide - 45mm to 120mm thick

 Clearance of new old stock insulated metal panels (IMPS) from Tata Steel and other manufacturers in large quantities if required .

contact : cabinznet@gmail.com 

These are new, old stock from overstocks and off cuts of larger orders in 1 to 6 metre lengths and thicknesses of 45mm to 120mm.

The panels are available in roof type (with ridged profile one side ) and wall (flat both sides)  usually 1 metre wide (+ overlap for roof type)2 grades. 

1. Lower grade is £8 a metre, and will have some dents/ marks / discolouration wear (see photo).

The lower grade is best used with an internal 4 x 2" wood frame as edge dents may stop panels joining tightly together to form a structure strong enough with panels on their own. 

2. Top grade is £18 per metre and is mostly like new, though may have light scratches/ marks

They have been stored outside, so will have marks and may need cleaning / jet washing. Roofing Tek screws and other hardware also available at discounted price. 

Footings, corner & roof flashings may be available as well as local delivery 

Buyer collects or local delivery may be possible after buyer inspects & pays. Profits goes to support local community groups. 

We are working on build packs so people can build their own with  panels and flashing kits. 

Contruct a simple DIY 6m x 4m garden room for £1500 - an excellent educational video showing how those on low incomes can gather low cost reusable materials from local businesses & online marketplaces

I found an excellent educational video showing how those on low incomes can gather low cost reusable materials from local businesses & o...