ALUK
Marketing Director Sioned Roberts says that AluK is firmly behind the
“It’s definitely been an important element in AluK’s growth in the trade market over recent years, and we want to see it go from strength to strength.” organisers’ decision to revert to a twoyearly format and felt it was important for systems companies like AluK to line up in support of the show: “The FIT Show is important for the whole industry – whether that’s presenting new products, networking, learning or just exploring new opportunities. “It’s definitely been an important element in AluK’s growth in the trade market over recent years, and we want to see it go from strength to strength.”
Issue 107 | February 2020
IS !! TH NTH MO
Following last week’s announcement (see page 58) that the FIT Show will revert back to a biennial event, AluK has shown its support of the decision by reserving a prime 175m2 stand right near the entrance to Hall 2.
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PLENTY OF DISCUSSION POINTS, WORLDWIDE, AND EVEN IN OUR OWN INDUSTRY Cruising our way through January with general elections safely out of the way, Brexit a formality: at least the leaving part, although I suspect we have a long way and much heartache to suffer before all is signed, sealed and finally delivered, so I thought it looked plain sailing for 2020. Yes, I know. Silly me! I’m sure there was a time (don’t ask me to put a date on it!) when we moved along in a steady way without great dramas, going about our business in a measured and, largely, successful way. That certainly doesn’t seem to be the way now. There’s crisis and drama at every turn and I’m sure much of it is because of the rise in social media. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not decrying social media but the fact that news and comment can be distributed so quickly and easily has much to do with it. Anyone can be heard and their point of view put forward by simply punching a few keys and hitting send, and sometimes this ease of communication can get people into trouble. I can’t help thinking that this trait of shooting from the hip before the brain has had time to engage may well be behind the UK’s latest drama…yes, you knew I wouldn’t be able to resist a pop at our Meghan! And I don’t think it’s just me who would like to see a proper return to them being an ordinary man and wife: no titles nor freebie houses with £2.4 million home improvements, and let them earn a living just like the rest of us - and on a level playing field. I’d like to keep writing about politics, the royals, and other gossip-based drivel but I probably should acknowledge the subject of reinforcement for PVCu systems as this seems to have raised its head this month. I don’t feel that I’m well enough qualified to act as judge and jury on this subject and come up with a verdict either way, and I’m not sure there is a right or wrong answer. You can read about the issue in this month’s Glass News in the Letters to the Editor section and the original press release that has caused the furore. It’s all about warranties from the system houses, on the one hand, and moneysaving on the other. And it’s an understandable dichotomy: it is ever harder to maintain margins and if there is an opportunity to reduce cost and, let’s face it, there are not many opportunities
January 2020 crossword solution:
4 Letters 8
to do this, then it’s understandable that a cost saving will appeal to fabricators. The other side of the coin is, of course, the issue of the warranties offered by the systems houses. These, I believe, are based upon the whole system being tested and the reinforcement that is used is a material part of the specification. Therefore, if the specification is changed and, for instance, a different reinforcement used, then it doesn’t comply with the testing and the warranties will not be valid. In the majority of cases we are talking about steel reinforcement and you would think, perhaps, that one lot of steel is much like another. It isn’t as simple as that. Different systems have different reinforcement designs in shape, size, tensile strength and maybe even different make up within the metallurgy. As I say, I’m not an expert but this seems like a reasonable assumption. So is there a scenario that may be an answer to the problem? If the system houses were to declare the full specification requirements for their reinforcement and the company wanting to supply the steel replicated that specification and undertook the testing, just as the system houses have done, then surely there would be no argument? Of course, that would then come down to whether, with the manufacture and testing costs, a saving over the system house supplied reinforcement could still be shown. If so, the warranty issue would be solved and the fabricator could save money. Happy days! Of course, having a product that is warranted by the system house is desirable but it is interesting that some fabricators have indicated that substantial cost savings may, for them, outweigh the advantages of having a warranty. I’ve heard comment that it is not necessarily an easy journey to pursue a warranty claim with some system houses and, additionally, the number of warranty claims are so low that it may be worth taking a risk and, effectively, stand the cost of the odd warranty claim if there are savings to be made. This is problematic, too, as if a householder has performed their due diligence and opted for a specific system, they may then be purchasing a product and be blissfully ignorant of the fact that it is not a system house approved spec. Is that falling foul of trades description legislation? As I said, I certainly don’t have an answer but I suspect that, like the problems in the middle east, the royal family or any other difference of opinion, it probably comes down to being able to get together and talk through the problem.
CONTENTS Coloured Products
10 Hardware 16 Trade News
‘TIME OUT’ WINNERS – JANUARY!
20 Which Door? 28 Glass News Interview: AdminBase
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30 Windows
Eye Spy: Claire Cooke, Forest Green, Nailsworth
35 New Product
Spot the Difference: Katherine Wilson, Exmouth, Devon Crossword: Susan Webster, Stockport Congratulations to all our winners! Good luck in this months Time Out pages!
www.glassnews.co.uk | February 2020
Emma Champion Advertising Manager M: 07508 263262 E: emma@glassnews.co.uk
32 Installer Focus 36 Trade News
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61 Cold Calling 62 Machinery & Investment 68 Energy Efficiency 72 Careers & Qualifications in Fenestration 76 Time Out! 77 Find A Supplier
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glassnews™ is a registered Trademark. The views contained herein are not necessarily those of glassnews™ and whilst every effort is made to ensure information throughout is correct, glassnews™ does not accept liability for errors. The views expressed by contributors and the content of letters, are not necessarily those of glassnews™ and therefore cannot take responsibility.
Chris Champion Editor / Editorial Enquiries M: 07850 267223 E: chris@glassnews.co.uk Kate Carnall Graphic Design E: kate@glassnews.co.uk Deadline for copy: 16th of each month Please recycle this newspaper so we can continue to use recycling in our effort to help the environment.
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YOUR LETTERS
LETTERS
The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper
“FAKE NEWS” SAYS LINIAR’S MARTIN THURLEY Dear Editor An article was recently published in The Glazine and other trade press (see http://www.the-glazine. com/WeeklyFolders/ glazine07january2020/ anglo_european_says_ it_has.htm) with Anglo European making claims its reinforcement is “a match for those supplied by three named systems companies” – one of which is Liniar. Liniar is fully expecting systems companies, testing houses, suppliers and the industry’s governing bodies to work together quickly to separate fact from fiction, in order to ensure that product performance and safety is not compromised. Ultimately it will be the industry’s governing bodies that rule on the outcome, but in the meantime we feel it is time for Liniar to speak out. Whenever a product becomes successful, in any industry, there is often a wave of copycat products trying to undercut the original and claim a share of the market. We’re used to seeing this, even within our own industry – but when these products are components that are hidden away inside others, and which potentially threaten the safety, quality, stability and brand reputation of the whole system, it is imperative that the full implications of using substitutes are considered. Investment
WHAT’S YOUR OPINION? Feel free to get in touch with your views on the industry, legislation, government, or even the newspaper. Contact Chris: chris@glassnews.co.uk
4
Steel and aluminium reinforcements for windows and doors are an integral part of any system, for good reason. Systems companies invest literally millions of pounds in design, development and testing in order to make sure products are fully accredited before they’re launched onto the market. Over the last few years, we’ve seen an increase in suppliers claiming that Liniar, along with other systems companies, makes ‘most of its profit’ from steel and aluminium. As a PVCu extrusion company with sales exceeding £90m,
Liniar’s core business is the supply of PVCu profiles. Be assured that our purchase, stockholding and distribution of steel and aluminium products is marginal at best – we do this to give customers the peace of mind that the Liniar products they manufacture and supply are fully compliant.
fabricating large structural facades to ensure they are safe and able to withstand the calculated wind pressures. Liniar cannot offer structural advice for products using reinforcement with unproven strength values. Performance
Liniar has been publicly vocal on this exact subject since early 2018 (see our article https://www.liniar.co.uk/blog/ when-is-a-liniar-windownot-a-liniar-window/).
The British Standard (BS6375) referred to in the article consists of three parts. The full Liniar system is tested to all three parts of this standard, resulting in the maximum size of windows and doors currently specified in our fabrication manual. The Anglo product in this case has only been tested to the first part of the standard, weather tightness, and we would question whether the maximum sizes laid out by Liniar’s fabrication manual have been adhered to. If not, are fabricators aware of their new maximum product sizes?
Specification
Security
There are many reasons for the exact specification of the Liniar system; and it doesn’t just stop with third party testing of a single window or door. Every window system is subject to a mass of requirements from specifiers, fabricators, installers and consumers, from wind loading and thermal performance calculations to test results at maximum sizes for security and overall performance.
Security testing, covered by PAS24 and Secured By Design, is critical for windows used in commercial buildings and new build developments; and we don’t see any evidence of this being achieved with the Liniar system utilising an alternative steel reinforcement. In fact, PAS24 can only be achieved once all three parts of the BS6375 standard above have been met.
Guarantees As other systems companies have communicated, Liniar has no hesitation in confirming that in cases where components used within the fabrication process do not meet or exceed the specification defined by Liniar, it will not honour product warranties or guarantees.
When we see a company claiming that “the reinforcement we supply is equal to that supplied by systems companies, meeting and exceeding, all of the criteria performance that they’ve laid down,” we feel it’s time to lift the lid on the inaccuracy of this bold statement – which we regard as “fake news”. Strength (EI) The material specification and coatings are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to reinforcement. The shape and thickness of the reinforcement is critically important for its strength characteristics (EI Value). Liniar provides support on a daily basis to customers
Of course, fabricators are free to offer non-PAS24 accredited windows, but if the test certification is used with non-approved steel components, the product itself will not be guaranteed by the systems company, nor covered by the British Standard. BSI Kitemarks The BSI Group offers fabricators the opportunity to incorporate the test data already undertaken by the systems company in achieving their BSI Kitemark, under the System Supplier Support Programme (SSSP); and a critical condition of this is that they must use the exact same hardware,
reinforcement and fixing components as specified and tested by the systems company. Liniar is audited by the BSI twice each year to ensure it remains fully compliant, and invests a significant sum to test every single product, at its maximum size, so we can stand by our guarantees. Thermal calculations Every systems company makes substantial investments in providing thermal calculations for its product range; Liniar has thousands available online. All calculations are based on the products including reinforcement supplied by Liniar, so any alternative components would render all these invalid. The implications If any component used by the fabricator, including reinforcement, is not written into the system company’s fabrication manual, then the BSI Kitemark will not be valid. The fabricator must carry out a stand-alone full type test and produce its own controlled fabrication manual for all product types within the system. If there are any industry standard changes that require additional testing, it becomes the fabricator’s responsibility to comply with these also, along with the substantial costs incurred. The fabricator would also become responsible for establishing and updating its own thermal calculations using alternative components, as Liniar’s calculations would not apply. The commercial reality Steel suppliers may promise significant cost savings on the face of it. We totally understand that a potential boost to your bottom line may appear attractive. But it’s not just about the financial cost. The Grenfell developers may have saved a heap of money at the time; but was it really worth it when the products failed and lives were lost? As our customers will attest, Liniar doesn’t aim to penalise them. We’ve
spent the last 12 years building an enviable brand reputation, based on high quality, safe products. We take a balanced approach to the commercial reality our customers face – our motivation is simply to ensure Liniar products are produced to the correct specification. It’s about doing the right thing – making sure the products that bear our name are fit for the purpose intended. Fabricators of the Liniar system can submit alternative components, and we will make an assessment. Where they meet or exceed specification, we will potentially write them into our fabrication manuals and approve their use. As a company we work with customers to help maximise both their sales and their profits. Corporate conscience As a leading brand, Liniar has several duties of care. Not only do we need to protect our brand reputation, we have an even bigger duty of care to our fabricators and ultimately the end user, in doing the right thing and making sure Liniar fabricated products are safe. With circa 3 million Liniar fenestration products manufactured and sent out into the marketplace each year, the risks are high – and that’s why we invest so much time, effort and resources in making sure our customers don’t have to face these significant risks on their own. It’s definitely time to speak out; as a company and an industry we will be working swiftly to ensure that product performance, safety and the reputation of our industry are not compromised. Don’t be fooled – and potentially put yourself, your business and your customers at risk. Martin Thurley Group Managing Director Liniar
February 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk
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LETTERS
The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper
MISLEADING ARTICLES AND HALF TRUTHS: NOT ON VEKA’S WATCH! VEKA UK MD DAVE JONES RESPONDS TO MISLEADING ARTICLE IN ORDER TO PROTECT CUSTOMERS Dear Editor Integrity is one of VEKA UK’s core values, and when we see a piece in the media containing information that could mislead and damage our customers, posing as news, it’s important for us to take a stand. I am, of course, referring to the piece recently published in the trade press by Anglo European. While I’m confident that fabricators and specifiers will be able to spot the inaccuracies for themselves, the problem lies in the fact that there are grey areas of the fenestration industry that aren’t being sufficiently policed.
PAUL SULLIVAN, MANAGING DIRECTOR, ANGLO EUROPEAN RESPONSE TO STATEMENT BY LINIAR Dear Editor We are pleased that systems companies share our conviction that window and door reinforcements are a critical element of manufacture and that they must deliver on performance - and to specification.
If a product uses a component not recommended by VEKA, we cannot apply our kitemarks and honour product warranties and guarantees. To put it quite simply, it’s not a VEKA window unless it’s got our steel in it. Any fabricator choosing a substitute component must carry out their own testing and produce their own fabrication manual and calculations. If there are any changes that require additional testing, it will fall to the fabricator to comply with these and absorb the costs incurred.
Exactly what are we testing?
This will mean that fabricators, specifiers and installers will be at a disadvantage and should a quality problem arise in the future, this may also damage relationships and reputations. Something that the fenestration industry has worked very hard to repair over the last 30 years.
BS 6375 gives guidance on how to apply BS EN 14351.
Ask questions
BS 6375 provides advice on the selection of performance characteristics for windows and doors intended for the UK market. It specifies the exposure categories related to test pressure levels for air permeability, watertightness and wind resistance.
Of course, we want all our customers to use our steel and benefit from our support and guarantees, but if they choose to find an alternative supplier, we encourage them to ask for proven certification for their own peace of mind. We also suggest that they ask that supplier to support them with design loads, energy calculations and PAS24 as we do for all VEKA UK customers.
We welcome competition, it helps to keep us on our toes and raise our game, but we also believe in playing fair and being transparent. Therefore, we have taken this as an opportunity to demystify some of the jargon.
This is not a component test and certainly not an isolated test on the performance of steel. Part one provides a classification for the overall product on weathertightness and general guidance on selection and specification. To ‘match’ the performance of products from the systems companies named by Anglo European, they must achieve the same level of classification, not simply be tested to the same standard. That may certainly be the case, but we would like the opportunity to see the results and compare. All VEKA UK products are tested to all three parts of BS 6375. What is the relevance of GZ140EU? Anglo European claim that their products offer two grades of galvanisation. One a European standard (GZ140EU), which is completely irrelevant to the UK market and the British Standard GZ275UK, which must be achieved to conform to BS 7412 and the quality standards demanded by VEKA UK. We have done several tests in the last six months that show that, at the time of testing, Anglo European Steel did not meet GZ275UK. We are happy to share these results on request. All windows and doors are not created equally We invest a great deal of time and money in our product development and this includes our recommended reinforcements. Substitute steel suppliers often cannot supply all geometries required by all Systems Companies, but by using a substitute, quality is most certainly compromised.
6
We are also happy to spot check products for customers to ensure that they are receiving the quality that they have been promised.
This principle has driven our continuing test programme, carried out independently through a UKAS accredited test house and to BS6375-1:2015, the standard for weather tightness specified by them. With more than 250 million metres of steel reinforcement supplied since we first went into business in 1989 without a single reported failure, the test results have and are, reaffirming our confidence in the performance of our products. This is not about value-engineering but engineering-in value. We do this through the products we supply and the cut-to-size reinforcement service that underpins them – something that is saving our customers up to £200,000 a year in reduced labour and wastage. We also believe in choice. We don’t believe that it is in the interests of fabricators – and those of market competitivity, more generally that they should have to buy any component product from a single supplier when alternatives exist and have been tested to perform to the same standards. This is surely the basis of a competitive market? Our accreditation programme will continue, adding more product independently tested to BS6375-1:2015, throughout this year. We will also continue in our commitment to work in partnership with fabricators to conduct further and additional testing not already part of this programme, if they have a specific requirement to do so. Opportunities to lower your manufacturing costs are few and far between. Buying reinforcement direct eliminates the costs associated with supply through a third party. Independent test results are proof that it doesn’t change the quality.
Questions to ask: • Check the reinforcement complies with the material requirements given in BS 7412 which include requirements for corrosion resistance of mild steel sections. • Is the reinforcement the exact same gauge and geometry as that tested by the system supplier? • Does the other substitute supplier provide a bespoke reinforcement that is suitable for the chamber of your chosen profile (not a ‘one size fits all’ solution). Time for change At VEKA UK we see this as an opportunity for systems companies, fabricators, testing houses and governing bodies to work together to ensure that that the quality of products is sufficiently regulated and we are proud to stand united with Liniar on this issue. The imminent changes to the building regulations driven in part by the Grenfell disaster will include new standards for product performance and build quality but in the interim period and for the integrity, safety and future of our industry we must act now to ensure all suppliers to the fenestration industry provide a veracious account and accurate information. If by reading this you are concerned, or want to join us in driving change, our door is always open.
February 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk
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Endurance Doors has just launched a range of perfectly matching finishing trims for their customers to purchase, alongside one of their solid timber core composite doors. Through the online door designer, they also have the opportunity to add these finishing trims that’s already been cut down to a handy 2.3m size to their order. The addition of these coloured matched trims is a major plus for installers, as these products have been cut down to size for a small van and are colour matched, so there’s no need to source full sized packs through their respective local plastics stockist. The profiles include 25mm ‘D’, 45mm flat, 65mm flat, 20mm square and a 17.5mm quadrant with no minimum order quantity and these products are also available on short lead times. Given the number of colours in the range from Endurance, these trim packs are available in the 16 colours of Elephant Grey, Anthracite Grey, Pearl Grey, Chartwell Green, Cream, French Navy, Racing Green, Rich Red, Raven Black, Schwarz Braun, Golden Oak, Irish Oak, Walnut, Rosewood, Mahogany and White. A number of Preferred Installers are already starting to take up the packs, which also help them manage stocks of various trims and colours, so they have just enough product for each job and in doing so helping to cut down waste. Stephen Nadin, Managing Director of Endurance Doors commented: ‘Given the resources of us as Rocal Group, we have both in-house extrusion and foil wrapping and so we decided to harness this with the launch of our finishing packs. It makes the job of the trade far easier, reduces unwanted travel time to a local plastics stockist and reduces waste, so there’s an environmental benefit too!
Business Micros has begun the roll out of its exciting, Next Generation software solutions with the launch of Courier – a mobile delivery scanning app for fabricators.
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Courier has been created to work alongside Business Micros’ EvoNET Despatch planning tool and provides the final link in the chain, scanning and recording each item as it is delivered to guarantee On Time In Full performance every single time. Simple and affordable, Courier gives delivery drivers the tools they need to do a great job. EvoNET Despatch ensures that all items are loaded onto the vehicle correctly, and then the driver uses the integrated Courier app on their Android scanning device to scan those same items as they are unloaded, ensuring that nothing can ever be missed off. As well as eliminating paper delivery notes, the app captures the customer’s signature and automatically sends an email conformation to record each completed drop. To start using Courier, fabricators need to create an online account with Business Micros to download the app. Once they have entered their security information and the registration numbers of their delivery vehicles, they can start setting up their delivery routes by vehicle through EvoNET and exporting them to the Courier Cloud server. The driver using the app simply clicks on each drop once they arrive at that customer and then scans off each item using their device as they unload it from the vehicle. Once every item has been scanned, the customer can sign for that delivery and at that point the information is captured and saved offline. Once the device is within
Name: Tel: Address: Postcode: Email:
range of 4G or WiFi, then the information is passed back to EvoNET. Nick Bailey, Business Development Manager at Business Micros, says that Courier delivers all the simplicity and ease of use which it promised when it announced its Next Generation software at last year’s FIT Show. He says: “This is so easy to integrate into any delivery set
up and eliminates all those missed items and delivery errors which end up costing money. It empowers drivers and helps them to impress customers with an efficient and reliable service.” More details on Courier are available at: www.businessmicros.co.uk/courier READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0008
For further information on the Endurance Solid and Secure composite door range please visit endurancedoors.co.uk, e-mail sales@endurancedoors.co.uk or call the sales office on 01652 659259. You can also add to the Twitter following @ EnduranceDoors.
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AVIA, LEADING THE WAY WITH SMART SECURITY Mighton has underlined the credentials of the Avia smart lock as the most secure product of its type on the market, thanks to an unbeatable combination of traditional mechanical hardware, recently approved by independent test house, Sold Secure, and market leading software that is designed to work with Apple’s HomeKit security ecosystem, regarded as the most secure platform available. Avia was designed from the offset to incorporate the very best levels of security for both its mechanical and electronic elements. It was the first
smart lock to achieve the Government’s Code of Practice for consumer Internet of Things (IoT) security, earning accreditation from the British Standards Institute (BSI) as a result, as well as recognition from the European Telecommunication Standards Institute (ETSI TS 103 645), the first globally applicable standard for consumer IoT security. More recently, Avia was subjected to rigorous manual attack tests at Sold Secure’s facilities in Rugby, where, thanks to its inherent strength it became the first smart lock to ever meet the criteria for SS301 Silver approval.
As the world’s first Apple HomeKit compatible smart lock to be developed for lever operated multipoint systems, Avia can be controlled via iPad, iPhone, Apple Watch, keypad and fob, and gives users access to a full audit trail that records all its activity. Access for additional users can also be granted, and controlled, via the app from anywhere in the world. In addition, Avia features bespoke software designed to prevent any ‘man in the middle’ interception, plus the option for facial recognition as an additional layer of security. Mighton’s chairman, Mike Derham, commented:
“Despite the surge in interest in smart home products, many homeowners are still wary about the security credentials of smart locks, believing them to be vulnerable to ‘hacking’ and preferring the peace of mind that a traditional lock provides when it comes to securing their property. With Avia however, there are no such concerns, as we have proven it to be the most advanced and secure smart lock available. “Not only does Avia benefit from the security that the Apple iOS operating system provides, which includes 265-bit data encryption
to mitigate the threat of hacking attempts, but it also incorporates a manual key – unlike other smart locks on the market – which is crucial to winning homeowner confidence in the technology. “Plus, in the highly unlikely event that there is a technical issue, homeowners know that with Avia, they can still maintain access to their property, manually.” www.mightonproducts.com
READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0011
VBH PROVIDES A SAFE GREENTEQ EXIT Award winning hardware specialist VBH has added Anti-Panic emergency exit and panic hardware to its greenteQ range of products. Manufactured in Italy, which is well known for its expertise in this sector, the range consists of panic bolts and panic latches in cross-arm and push-pad versions, and is available from VBH stock in white and silver finishes. Touch bars, mortice and electric devices, and other finishes, are all available on a special order basis. Panic latches are available as either single-point or 3-point versions.
VBH Marketing Manager Gary Gleeson advises, “All Anti-Panic bolts and latches are tested, certified and CE marked to the relevant BS EN1125 or 179 standards. “Anti-Panic is available for single and double PVCu, aluminium and timber doors and there is the option of fitting an outside access device where controlled access from outside the building is required.”
Gary adds, “So many fabricators now use greenteQ products on their standard doors. The addition of Anti-Panic to the range now enables them to gear up their emergency exit doors using hardware from an established industry brand that they trust. They know that the door will open freely if it is ever called into use in an emergency.”
greenteQ Anti-Panic devices are reversible, cutting down on a fabricator’s stock holding and eliminating handing errors.
For more information on greenteQ AntiPanic visit vbhgb.com, Tweet @vbhgb or @ vbhgreenteQ, or call 01634 263300.
READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0012
A SOUND SOLUTION FROM CARL F GROUPCO Carl F Groupco has supplied AEROPAC ventilators to Dyer Mackay Developments Ltd for a new housing scheme in Thaxted, Essex. Having successfully trialled the AEROPAC, the powered ventilators have been installed into the development which is called ‘Maypole View’ and comprises nine terraced houses, each with three bedrooms. 10
Dyer Mackay, which has a reputation for high quality housing developments in the South East of England, is a new customer for Carl F Groupco. The hardware distributor was selected on the basis of product availability and excellent communication, both in response to the initial enquiry and additional information provided. The recommendation for the AEROPAC, which offers excellent sound insulation and air flow, was provided by a consultant specialising in noise and acoustics. With enhanced acoustics for virtually silent running the AEROPAC is capable of moving large volumes of fresh, draught-free air using minimum energy. Carl F Groupco advises that other key features of the AEROPAC, manufactured by Siegenia, include optional filters to protect against pollen / fine dust and an active carbon filter to
keep out exhaust fume odours. The powered ventilator is popular across a number of sectors and has particular appeal for properties located near busy roads, train lines and on flight paths. Security is also enhanced, particularly overnight, as ventilation can be achieved without the need to leave windows open. Ventilators are supplied by Carl F Groupco as part of the company’s comprehensive range of over 7,000 window and door hardware products. Dyer Mackay Developments: www. dyermackaydevelopments.net Carl F Groupco: www.carlfgroupco.co.uk Follow Carl F Groupco on Twitter using the handles @Carl_F_Groupco and @_SmartSecure READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0013
February 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk
N EW
The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper
BRISANT GETS
SWEETER
Creating a pit-free furniture system has been a bugbear of Nick Dutton, CEO of BrisantSecure, ever since he moved on from running a door manufacturer and couldn’t find a hardware system that did what it was supposed to achieve. 2020 sees Brisant launching a brand new 20-year guarantee on the Sweet hardware system. They’ve taken the decision to leap from ten years to twenty, following the rigorous testing which they have put the handles and letterplates through over the last year. The choices they made in manufacturing, coating with 6 layers of armour, have paid off. They put a handle in an independent test chamber and it still looked great, even after being hammered with saltwater for
“Brisant aims to be at the forefront of development, whether that is keeping door furniture looking great against extreme weather conditions or staying on-trend with the launch of the new rose gold.” www.glassnews.co.uk | February 2020
over 8,000 hours. That’s an incredible 30x more time than required for the flagship EN 1906:2012 corrosion standard. Sweet is an edgeless, long lasting, pit-free beautiful hardware system for any door. It comprises of two types of handle, including the patented secure and award-winning Lock Lock. They have created a second shape of letter plate, having listened to customers. There is now a more traditional square plate as well as the oval, edgeless shape. There are rounded, screw-less numerals and letters as well as a new twopart knocker. In addition to the standard colour range, Brisant have added the on-trend rose gold. It looks fantastic on all door colours and is manufactured to the same standard as the original colours. 2020 also sees the introduction of the 2-part knocker which is still true to the Sweet design concept but moving on from the historical ‘urn’ knockers. Nick Dutton CEO of Brisant-Secure concluded: “Brisant aims to be at the forefront of development, whether that is keeping door furniture looking great against extreme weather conditions or staying on-trend with the launch of the new rose gold. We are delighted with how good it looks and how well it is performing and are delighted with the result.” Tel: 01924 410200 READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0014
0220/0015
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HARDWARE
The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper
SOARING SALES OF CARL F GROUPCO’S TILT & TURN FITTINGS Hardware distributor Carl F Groupco reports exceptional growth in orders for tilt & turn fittings.
Popular lines included in Carl F Groupco’s comprehensive tilt & turn portfolio include
Carl F Groupco’s Technical Manager, John Mitchell, fitting Roto NT tilt and turn hardware
FUHR’s Tipsafe hardware, the MACO Multimatic, Siegenia’s Titan AF and ALU tilt & turn system and Roto’s modular NT range. www.carlfgroupco.co.uk READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0016
NEW AGB ARTECH TILT & TURN SYSTEM FROM VBH Hardware specialist VBH (GB) has added a new tilt & turn system from Italian hardware manufacturer, AGB, to its extensive range of third-party branded products. ArTech gear is protected by the Activeage finish that exceeds 2,000 hours neutral salt spray testing to EN ISO 9227, making it ideal for coastal regions and areas with higher levels of pollution. The ArTech system has been developed for fabrication lines of all sizes, and comes with various hinge options including surface fit, rebated, jigless and the ‘Plana’ concealed hinge system. The gear is connected via either a ‘Crop & Punch’ connection system, or can be easily assembled on a manual line by utilising ‘Crop & Cover’ connector plates, which enable manual cropping of the hardware without the need to punch a hole in the cropped faceplate. Standard and PAS24 security configurations are available, ensuring Document Q compliance. Adjustable Anti-Burglar cams are supplied as standard too, acting as a compression point on standard windows or security mushroom cams when paired with a security striker. Gearboxes on most tilt
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For ERA, the UK’s leading home security specialist, it’s not just the product that’s important, it’s also the aftercare provided to its valuable customers that helps to set it apart from its competitors. ‘We really care,’ said Gaynor Norman, Resolutions Team Leader. ‘Of course, we want to deliver first-class products, but we absolutely believe in providing the kind of service that all our customers can rely on should they have an issue – that’s where ERA’s Resolution Team comes in.
Commenting on the significant expansion of sales for the company in this sector, Carl F Groupco’s Managing Director John Crittenden said: “Credit must be given to our team who provide a comprehensive and responsive service to our customers. Specific focus has been given to tilt & turn product lines, including support and promotion for Roto’s NT tilt & turn solution: the system, which was added to our catalogue in February 2019, has widened our selection for customers, particularly within the commercial and specification sectors. “Our distribution facilities allow for the supply of hardware to fabricators of any size. A key reason that we have won business and increased turnover is because no request is too large or small. At Carl F Groupco we fulfil orders from one off windows through to major contracts, with full service and support whatever the size of contract.”
ERA’S RESOLUTION TEAM WORKS HARD FOR CUSTOMERS
‘Our team name says it all – we strive to resolve any issues no matter how small – from a simple delivery query to a more complex technical issue.Help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week – ‘Our customers, including locksmiths or any other tradespeople fitting our products, as well as homeowners, can reach our friendly team during the hours of 8.30am til 5.00pm on 01922 490050. Out of hours, customers can contact the ERA Help email address help@eraexpert.com and we will pick up the message and contact them directly as soon as possible. We aim to offer straight-forward advice and reassurance. Extra help on site – ‘Occasionally we find that a customer needs additional support on
Allan Price at VBH comments: “The ArTech system gives fabricators and installers a perfect ‘fit and forget’ solution for window and door installations. It’s also covered under VBH’s unique Q-secure security and corrosion guarantee, which is free to join and includes cover of up to £3,250 for windows, residential doors and folding patios.” For more information watch our informative YouTube video, visit www.vbhgb.com or call on 01634 263300. READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0017
A team you can trust – Gaynor said, ‘We’re professional and swift in our response, but approachable and human too. Our customers truly matter to us and we’re proud to offer the support of our Resolutions Team.’ For further information on ERA’s Resolution Team or wide range of security products, including its innovative smart home security suite, visit www. eraeverywhere.com or contact the sales team on 01922 490 000 or by emailing info@eraeverywhere.com. READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0018
MILA ADDS SOLD SECURE DIAMOND 3* SECURITY CYLINDER TO PROSECURE RANGE Mila is offering customers the ultimate in cylinder security with the launch of a Sold Secure Diamond Standard, BSI 3* Kitemark cylinder. Part of Mila’s proven and hugely popular ProSecure hardware range, it gives fabricators a simple way of complying with the latest TS007 security hardware requirements, as well as a powerful new sales opportunity. Anti-drill, anti-bump and anti-pick, the new ProSecure cylinder is independently tested and fully accredited to what are recognised as being the most rigorous industry standards. It is one of only a small number of cylinders available in the UK that come with the reassurance of both the Diamond Grade and 3* Kitemark approvals, and the logos are laser etched onto either end of the cylinder face.
and turn systems are clamped to the drive gear faceplate, but ArTech’s is attached using concealed screw fixings for a more attractive linear design.
site, perhaps with fitting a new product for the first time. In this instance, we will send one of our engineers who will be able to guide our customer and resolve the issue.’
The new ProSecure cylinder is manufactured from brass and hardened carbon steel and features a whole raft of innovative features designed to give the homeowner absolute confidence in their security. That includes anti-pick pins, hardened steel anti-drill pins in the barrel and low and high driver pins to prevent cylinder bumping. There is also a high strength carbon steel cam protection block to prevent snapping and plug extraction. One of the key features of the cylinder is that it is engineered with a snap secure
sacrificial point which will break if it is tampered with from the outside, ensuring that the internal parts of the cylinder can’t be damaged, and the lock can still be operated safely from the inside. For additional homeowner peace of mind, the Mila ProSecure cylinder comes with three restricted profile dimple keys as standard and a unique warranty card number which means that only the card holder can order additional keys for their cylinder. Mila is supplying the new cylinder in matt nickel or matt brass finishes and with a thumb turn option for the inside if required. Managing Director Richard Gyde says that is an important addition to Mila’s range because it gives fabricators another risk free route to 3 star compliance. He says: “We already offer our 2 star ProSecure handle and 1 star cylinder for doors being fitted with a conventional handle and now we can offer the same level of security performance for doors being fitted with standard handles or escutcheons. “Mila customers can of course get expert advice from our team on the best security options for their individual door ranges and they can rely on Mila for in stock availability and next day delivery.” The Mila ProSecure 3* cylinder comes with a 10 year mechanical operation guarantee. More details are available at: www.mila.co.uk. READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0019
February 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk
N EW
The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper
MIGHTON PRODUCTS’ AVIA SMART LOCK WINS GLOBAL 2020 IOT BREAKTHROUGH AWARD Cambridge, Jan. 3, 2020 – Mighton Products, the leading manufacturer and supplier to the joinery industry in the UK for window and door hardware, today announced that its Avia Smart Lock has been selected as the global winner of the “Smart Lock Product of the Year” award in the 4th Annual IoT Breakthrough Awards Program from IoT Breakthrough, a leading market intelligence organisation that recognises the top companies, technologies and products in the global Internet-of-Things (IoT) market today. Avia is the ultimate secure smart home security system available for multipoint locking doors. Avia is Apple HomeKit enabled and packed with online security features. The Avia secure smart lock is the first smart lock to be accredited by Sold Secure which is administered by the UK’s Master Locksmiths Association and aimed at reducing the risk of crime by assessing security products. Avia has designed all its products with security at its heart and to meet the enhanced security requirements of external agencies and industry standards and regulations. Avia was also the first smart lock to be compliant with the UK Government code of practice for consumer IoT and ETSI TS 103 645 Consumer IoT security technical specification, providing users with the confidence that it is safe and secure at home and online. Avia was also the very first smart lock to achieve the prestigious BSI Internet of Things Verified – residential IoT accreditation. “Unlike many other smart locks, Avia uses the latest advanced 256 bit encryption for the transfer of data, and Apple HomeKit is widely acknowledged
to be the most secure platform available, so the communication between the phone and the lock is protected at the highest level possible,“ said James Johnson, managing director at IoT Breakthrough. “Their innovations with the Avia product continue with their introduction of child safety features, and simply put Mighton Products is now a leading force of innovation in the smart lock arena. We extend our congratulations to the entire Mighton Products team for taking home this 2020 IoT Breakthrough Award.” The mission of the IoT Breakthrough Awards program is to recognise the innovators, leaders and visionaries from around the globe in a range of IoT categories, including Industrial and Enterprise IoT, Smart City technology, Connected Home and Home Automation, Connected Car, and many more. This year’s program attracted more than 3,700 nominations from companies all over the world.
will communicate with each other. “We believe that every smart lock should be subject to the industry’s most rigorous testing, including both hardware and software components,” said Mike Derham, Chairman, Mighton Products Ltd. “Avia is all about security and about peace of mind, so we didn’t want to make Avia just secure, we wanted to be able to prove Avia’s security credentials too. That’s why we have sent Avia to the world’s best security testing houses for both physical and cyber security testing to be completely scrutinised, and we are proud to receive their validation, as well as the validation from IoT Breakthrough with this 2020 IoT Breakthrough Award designation.” For more information visit IoTBreakthrough.com.
Square Pull Bars
Mighton Products has also developed ‘optical pairing’ as part of the process for
adding a lock to consumer home system and devices. Optical pairing is a Bluetooth® pairing method developed by Mighton Products Ltd as a form of Bluetooth® out-of-band pairing. It is known to be secure against ‘man-inthe-middle’ attacks due to its inherent privacy, made possible by the close physical proximity and the single ‘point to point’ procedure. It works by communicating one of the Bluetooth® pairing encryption keys through a ‘light flashing pattern’ from one device to the other. When optical pairing, only the devices that participate
www.glassnews.co.uk | February 2020
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Order Today for Next Day Delivery Call Mila Sales 01327 312 400 READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0020
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TECH TALK
The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper
TECH TALK with Strafford Cooke, Technical Director, Mila
TALK IS CHEAP
Would you buy a car without asking to see proof of ownership or an MOT certificate? Presumably not, unless you’re particularly naïve or endearingly trusting. I think there are very few of us who would actually hand over thousands of pounds to a persuasive salesman without asking him to prove his claims, yet I see that happening all the time in the fenestration market as buyers take their suppliers’ word for it on all kinds of certification and accreditation. It’s possible we’ve got used to thinking we don’t need to scrutinise the small print too much anymore – after all, we’re very quick to click ‘agree’ to terms and conditions on all sorts of online agreements without reading every page because we think it’s just a formality. That might just about be OK when you’re setting up a social media account, but it’s definitely not OK when you’re managing your business.
If you don’t scrutinise the small print from every one of your suppliers when it comes to certification and accreditation, then I think you’re putting not only your legal responsibilities but also your moral obligation to your customers and your hard earned business reputation into the hands of others. This extends beyond just the requirement to satisfy the Building Regs of course and into the realms of safety and
security; and the fact is that if you are claiming that your products meet any particular standard or test, then you need to be 100% certain that those claims are accurate. I’ve watched the recent debate being played out in the media between some of the leading PVC-U systems suppliers and one particular steel producer with real interest. I have no desire to get involved, but what has struck me is how the issue
of testing and accreditation is at the very heart of that debate. What the systems companies are quite rightly pointing out is that fabricators are free to use any components they choose in their windows. But, if they do use anything which differs in even the tiniest detail from a specification which has previously been tested and accredited to a British Standard, then they immediately invalidate their right to claim that their window complies. Fabricators can make their own choice of course, but only once they have scrutinised the small print of any accreditations which any of their suppliers are claiming and have understood the implications of diverging from that in terms of guarantees and warranties. It’s not enough just to rely on verbal assurances from those suppliers either – the onus is always on the fabricator or installer to check everything for themselves in writing. No business can claim approval to
“We’re proud of our ongoing commitment to and investment in testing and we know we can stand the closest scrutiny. I would urge other suppliers – not just in hardware - to do likewise.” 14
Strafford Cooke, Technical Director, Mila
any standard, even if they are authorised to rely on cascaded data, unless they have checked that data for themselves. That means asking for a copy of the certificate, checking the date of any test and asking when that test was last audited. At Mila, we have our BSI Kitemark audited every year, along with our TS007 tests and our CE marking and those certificates, along with every other security and performance test certificate for our products, are all available to every customer on request. In fact, we’ve made the process of checking even easier for our customers with a new conformance page which has recently added to our website. Our test certificates are now displayed at https://www.mila.co.uk/testcertificates/ We’re proud of our ongoing commitment to and investment in testing and we know we can stand the closest scrutiny. I would urge other suppliers – not just in hardware - to do likewise. Tel: 01327 312400 - www.mila.co.uk By Strafford Cooke, Technical Director, Mila
READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0022
February 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk
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TRADE NEWS
The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper
FUTURE OF BUILDING REGULATIONS: ACOUSTICS? Charged with directing the United Nations’ global health responses, the World Health Organisation has monitored and made recommendations surrounding the impact of noise pollution on humanity for more than a decade. As the Heathrow expansion is set to go forward, the HS2 rail line starts invading back gardens and housing developments are constructed on more brownfield sites, we ask ourselves if acoustics will be featured in the building regulations of the future – and discuss with one leading window systems company how it’s already tackling the issue.
areas – that annoyance can also have a negative impact on our health. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), prolonged exposure to noise pollution can have serious health impacts. In 2018, the WHO published its Environmental Noise Guidelines for the European Region – highlighting the impacts of noise pollution from sources such as road, rail and air traffic as well as urban development – and gave its recommendations for what building contractors can do to minimise them. The report indicates certain medical conditions can be brought on or aggravated by noise pollution, as well as impacting our children’s learning and development. For example: • 5% increased risk of cardiovascular and ischaemic heart disease • 10% increased risk of hypertension (high blood pressure) • 3% absolute risk of high sleep disturbance
MORE THAN AN ANNOYANCE
• 10% absolute risk of high annoyance as defined by the WHO
The impact of noise pollution goes far beyond an inconvenience for those of us living near airports, railway lines and in urban
• 1 month delay in oral and reading comprehension for children
“The report indicates certain medical conditions can be brought on or aggravated by noise pollution, as well as impacting our children’s learning and development.” 16
You may ask yourself how noise can have this type of impact on our health; in fact, it isn’t so much the noise itself that’s the problem, but the reactions it causes in those exposed to it. Increased annoyance or stress can have severe impacts on health – as can a lack of sleep due to disturbance.
LEGISLATION IS ON THE HORIZON The government is beginning to listen to the impacts on health that noise pollution can cause – and the anticipated strain it will put on the NHS. It stands to reason that in the not too distant future, the industry will see additional building regulations surrounding noise reduction – especially in student accommodation, council properties, nursing homes and schools.
WHERE FENESTRATION FITS IN Sound dampening measures in fenestration isn’t a new trend. In fact, windows aimed at reducing noise pollution have been around since the mid1970s, but as urban areas continue to spread and noise levels increase, more families will be looking for a respite and a way to make their homes a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of the city. Currently, there are a variety of ways installers can improve the noise reduction levels of a window or door, including:
• Double, triple or quadruple glazing • Thicker glass used in the glazing process • Laminated layers between glass without affecting clarity • Large gaps between panes • Specifically designed frames that are suited to acoustics
AHEAD OF THE CURVE Known for being proactive, Liniar’s flagship 70mm system already meets the WHO guidelines for noise reduction. Its EnergyPlus windows have already been used in projects that met these guidelines and required acoustically sound windows – but that wasn’t the end of the innovative system company’s acoustic journey.
The development of a 90mm PassivHausaccredited window system from Liniar in 2017 has also resulted in the excellent additional benefit of noise reduction up to 42 decibels - exceeding the WHO guidelines. The EnergyPlus90 system looks and acts as a 70mm window and is ideal for using in high frequency areas – airports, rail lines, etc. This window doesn’t rely simply on changes to the glazing to achieve superior acoustic ratings. Instead, the nine-chamber system which was originally designed to achieve an A+ 40 WER rating and secure PassivHaus accreditation also acts as a buffer against external noise pollution.
are at the forefront of the industry’s mind, it’s a safe bet that acoustics will soon play a part. Being proactive will ensure the longevity of products while providing customers with a product that not looks exceptions but also provides them peace of mind. For more information about the World Health Organisation’s Environmental Noise Guidelines for the European Region visit http://www.euro.who.int/. Discover the UK’s first PassivHaus PVCu window, Liniar’s EnergyPlus90 and find out more about its noise reduction capabilities at www.liniar. co.uk/upv-windows/ passivhaus/.
PREPARING FOR THE FUTURE Whilst energy ratings and thermal performance
READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0024
February 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk
Cut out the middle man. And cut your reinforcement costs by up to 40% THE FABRICATORS’ FRIEND Manchester, UK | 0161 231 2354 | enquiries@angloeuropean.net | www.angloeuropean.net 0220/0025
TRADE NEWS
The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper
A GLASS ACT Why is glass such a popular material in building design and how can the material be used to overcome challenges such as space, light and acoustics while helping specifiers to meet sustainability requirements? Simon Boocock, Managing Director of CRL Europe, takes a look. Highly visible and a practical necessity, balustrades are one of the most important features of a staircase and they are increasinly being chosen to make a focal point in building interiors. For this reason, and because of the many practical advantages it offers, glass is now often chosen, not only for interiors but for building facades too. The benefits are clear; highly durable, glass facades, including ventilated glass façade systems with an open structure, are often now added to older architecture as an extra layer of protection against the elements. This is a material that offers many practical benefits that sit well with specifiers working commercial and residential architecture, such as thermal insulation, solar control, acoustics, fire protection, safety and security. And that is not to mention the physical versatility of glass which can literally be chosen to work alongside any other material and within any setting, from old buildings undergoing a refurbishment in the centre of a historical city to new builds in rural landscapes. Internally, one of the biggest challenges is lack of natural light; particularly when
there are lots of rooms within rooms which leads to the flow of light being halted, leaving the interior dark and uninspiring. Research suggests that the more natural light there is, the greater the wellbeing of the building’s occupants, leaving specifiers with a challenge on their hands in creating a light-filled, inspiring open-plan space with good acoustics. The use of glass enables natural light to flow and a high-end look to be achieved, while acoustics and privacy levels can also be managed effectively. The cost effectiveness of glass is another advantage – this very durable material will last a long time and creates a timeless impression, so won’t need to be frequently replaced with any modernisation of a building’s interior. Letting natural light through will also save on energy bills, making glass a very cost-effective resource too. One of the potential pitfalls of the overuse of glass for commercial buildings though, is the effect of solar heat gain; warming a building with the flow of natural sunlight certainly increases energy efficiency and makes for sustainable construction, but too much uncontrollable heat will make the interior uncomfortable. Glass balustrades and facades were therefore the preferred choice for specifiers working on the new Banc of California in Los Angeles. The facility features custommade all-glass entrances, glass railings, and bullet resistant transaction systems which enhance the aesthetics and function of the stadium. A key feature within the building is a frameless glass balustrade system, which with its clean sightlines and minimal hardware improves views while increasing safety. Hand rails were also installed with LED lighting for improved visibility and aesthetic appeal. With no scaffold
required, the system enabled installation to be completed from the safe side of the balustrade from start to finish. The stadium faced an aggressive construction timeframe yet managed to open weeks ahead of schedule and in time for the new season. CRL’s rapid customization capabilities and robust distribution network offers one of the shortest lead times in the industry, which helped expedite the project. From a practical viewpoint for specifiers and installers, toughened glass, wherever it is used in a building needn’t be difficult to install or maintain, as is evident in the above example. With the right systems chosen, glass systems can be straightforward to fit, even retrospectively, enabling the open-plan space to be easily adapted to suit changing requirements. Dry-glazed systems, such as the one used for the Banc of California, are particularly effective for modern interior designs as they are quick and easy to install, ultimately providing maximum transparency and an elegant appearance. “A stadium project of this size presented challenging schedules that required precise
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coordination between the architect, contractors, and manufacturers,” said Chris Hanstad, Vice President of Architectural Sales at CRL. “We had the comprehensive product line and manufacturing capacity to provide a large scope of the customized glazing solutions needed to not only meet the project’s schedule, but its code requirements and design intent as well.” CRL’s DRS Door Rails and Blumcraft® Panic Handles were installed throughout the stadium, including VIP entrances and suites. DRS Door Rails provide clean, uninterrupted glass spans, which give the entrances a contemporary, all-glass aesthetic CRL’s taper-Loc glass balustrade system is a dry wall system that is easy to install and maintain, leading it to be chosen by installers working on prestigious projects such as the Banc of California Stadium in Los Angeles. For further information call 01706 863600, email crl@crlaurence.co.uk, or visit www.crlaurence.co.uk. READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0026
February 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk
WHICH DOOR?
The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper
ODL EUROPE LAUNCHES NEW GLASS RANGE ODL Europe has just launched its new impressive door glass range. Comprising 25 designs, with four ODL-exclusive design options, the glass range offers a wealth of choice for customers and homeowners. Nathan Barr, Managing Director of Bootle-based ODL Europe, said: “We are very excited to launch our new glass range. Our range comes with a wide variety of unique decorative glass options that have been carefully designed to work with various door styles. Whether it’s traditional, contemporary or minimalist we have options to cover all taste and styles, along with four unique glass designs, that really raise the bar in glass design.” The door glass range is available in either double or triple glazed options, has been manufactured to the highest standards and comes with recognised accreditations for performance, strength and thermal efficiency. All glass units are made with toughened glass which is up to five times stronger than ordinary annealed glass and complies with EN12150, the international standard for safety glass. For customers looking for enhanced security performance, the glass can be supplied with an upgrade option. This consists of the outer pane of toughened glass being replaced with a 6.8mm laminated glass, which eliminates any attempt to break through when under attack.
EXLABESA’S XLAFOLD ALUMINIUM BIFOLD DOOR IS PROVING POPULAR WITH FABRICATORS
Any colour available across our entire composite door range!
Exlabesa Building Products has recently reported that demand for their Xlafold aluminium bifolding door has increased year on year since the product was introduced to the market in 2017. For Paul Benn, General Manager at Exlabesa, there are many reasons why more and more fabricators are turning to the Xlafold bifolding door, not least of which is that it is quick and straightforward to fabricate. Paul said: “The Xlafold bifold is considerably quicker to fabricate than many other bifolding doors on the market. Its component parts suite with other Exlabesa systems so fabricators can reduce their stock holding and product inventory too. And installers have also found it straightforward to adjust the hinges, making it easier to install than competitor systems.” In terms of aesthetics, the Xlafold bifold has the classic slim sightlines of an aluminium bifolding door. It is available in sculptured or square sash options, so it’s suitable for the commercial, new build and domestic markets. It is available in all RAL colour options so it sits well in any design scheme.
Furthermore, all sealed units are manufactured to BS EN1279, a standard that guarantees the quality of components and most importantly the seal, which comes with a manufacturer’s 10 year-warranty.
The Xlafold bifold ticks all the boxes when it comes to the practicalities too. It has a typical U value of 1.5 W/m2K and features an interlocking gasket system for improved weather fastness, which means it offers excellent thermal efficiency and will effectively keep cold and wet weather at bay. It has PAS 24 accreditation, so it offers reassuring security as well as meeting the requirements of Document Q of Building Regulations.
Nathan concludes: “We know our new glass range will add further value to our door offering and help further cement our reputation at the forefront of composite door design.”
Paul said: “The Xlafold aluminium bifolding door has become a classic solution because it offers everything homeowners, architects, specifiers, fabricators and installers want from a bifolding door.”
Tel: 0151 933 0299 www.odl.com/europe.htm
Doncaster-based Exlabesa Building Systems is one of the country’s most experienced systems companies. It is one of the few UK aluminium system companies who extrude all their products in the UK and has recently expanded its aluminium extrusion plant with a recent £4.5 million extrusion press investment. Tel: 01302 762 500 - www.exlabesa.co.uk
0345 2000 816 distinctiondoors.co.uk READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0027
www.glassnews.co.uk | February 2020
READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0028
0220/0029
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WHICH DOOR?
The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper
GEORGE CLARKE SAYS:
‘LET ME HELP YOU SELL MORE DOORS’
Richard Kirman Sales and Marketing Manager for IG Doors and the Truedor brand tells us why their partnership with George Clarke continues to flourish. We are now into our fifth year of working with George Clarke and our relationship with him, and even more importantly his relationship with our customers continues to flourish. There is no doubt at all, that his involvement in our customer’s marketing campaigns to homeowners is delivering significant results. They are seeing increased sales opportunities by using his images on their websites, in their brochures and in their showrooms. He is doing exactly what we hoped he would do when we first got involved with him, which is to give confidence to homeowners that they are buying a quality product, one that meets their specific requirements. Our outstanding range of styles, colours, glass and locking options gives homeowners the widest possible choice when it comes to making their new doors entirely personal and individual to them.
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back doors of our homes should look, and the impact that that has on our streets. This is a message that George has consistently put to the market, that when choosing a door, they should make it entirely personal to them to reflect their personality and tastes, so that the impact on their home is truly noticeable. It is one of the real benefits of his experience as an architect in the construction sector that he understands these things, and we have developed our offering to ensure that we can deliver on his vision for how the front and
His real passion for making homes great places to live has really shone out and this has added to the view that our customers are truly experts in their field – a huge factor which is helping them sell more doors. For more information on Truedor visit www.truedor.co.uk. READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0030
February 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk
0220/0031
WHICH DOOR?
The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper
PRIZE ‘DOOR’ WINNER When Barnsley based fabricator Euroglaze launched what it called the ‘perfect’ range of composite doors for the trade towards the end of 2019, it was delighted with the response it got from customers. So much so that it launched a prize draw to reward one of the first 10 customers who placed orders during the first month with a free door. The winner of that draw was Next Gen Glazing, also of Barnsley, a trade and retail specialist, who have now received a free DoorCo composite door, complete with REHAU outerframe, Mila hinge, Maco locking system and Fab & Fix hardware. Matthew Butler Next Gen Glazing, was delighted: “We’ve been ordering windows and PVC doors from Euroglaze for a while and like the combination of quality and personal service that they provide. When they announced the launch of the composite door, it made perfect sense for us to order those as well from such a credible, local supplier, and it was a real bonus to get our first order free!”
The winning door has been installed at the home of a Next Gen Glazing director, demonstrating just how much faith the company has in the quality of the Euroglaze product. The prize draw is just the latest in Euroglaze’s programme of celebrations to mark its 40th anniversary in business and its 35th year in partnership with REHAU. The company has already held a Fun Day, a sponsored van pull, and a virtual bike ride from Lands End to John o’Groats, as it aims to raise £10K for its chosen charity partner – Retina UK. glaze’s Managing Director Martin Nettleton added: “We wanted to involve our customers as well as our staff in our celebrations and this seemed like a nice way to give them something back.” More details are at the website: www.euroglaze.co.uk. READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0032
ODL EUROPE INTRODUCE NEW COMPOSITE DOOR BROCHURE ODL Europe have just published a new composite door brochure to support their growing customer base. Nathan Barr, ODL Europe’s Managing Director said: “Our new brochure showcases our complete composite door collection including our newly-launched decorative glass range. The brochure is intended to support our customers while appealing to today’s design-conscious consumer by demonstrating the choice on offer.” The comprehensive 48-page brochure is filled with high-quality images throughout covering the full range of doors and glazing options available from ODL Europe. The contemporary brochure design perfectly demonstrates the extensive door range which includes a choice of 30 door styles, two finishes, 29 colours, three glazing frame choices and a new decorative glass range with 25 glass options. Nathan said: “Our new brochure will not only support
our fabricating customers, but also translate into better representation of our products to the general public. Furthermore, the brochure stresses the technological benefits of our products so today’s consumer can buy with increased confidence. The contemporary design of the brochure is intended to illustrate the strength and innovation of ODL Europe.” 2020 sees the 75th anniversary of parent company ODL and the company has an enviable track record of investment in its products and services to ensure they stay ahead of the curve and help support their customers. ODL Europe is no different – and the new brochure is just one example of this in practice. The new brochure is available now. To order copies, call 0151 933 0299. www.odl.com/europe.htm READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0033
A NEW GLASS SEALING PROCESS FROM ENDURANCE Always a company that invests in outstanding product performance, Endurance Doors have recently invested in a new glass sealing process to their solid timber core composite doors, which has had a positive effect on helping to eliminate customer concerns over water ingress.
This additional application of silicone has had a positive effect on the number of customer concerns. All of the operational efforts over the last 18 months in terms of adopting a quality culture and this and other new processes, have seen customer product issues nearly completely eliminated.
Water ingress in composite doors has hampered the composite door sector in the past and it has been several years since Endurance incorporated a unique Moisture Barrier Systems (MBS) to the bottom of their door slabs. But the recent introduction of a new glass sealing process adds further credence to the claim that Endurance Doors have become the #KingOfComposites.
Stephen Nadin, Managing Director of Endurance Doors commented: ‘With the recent heavy rainfall during the latter three months of the year, we’ve heard of a number of composite door installations that have been subject to water ingress to the foot of the door slab and also into the glazing cassettes. The results have been graphic and represent the risk of installing composite doors where manufacturers don’t take water ingress seriously.’
The first stage in the glass sealing process involves the bonding of the two inner glazing cassettes and glass unit to the Endurance door slab, using the pre-inserted black double-sided tape. The new additional stage in this important process introduces the wet sealing of the external cassettes, with the application of a silicone bead to the inner and outer channels of the external cassette, before they are both pushed together on the slab, excess then wiped clean prior to being screwed together.
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For further information on the Endurance Solid and Secure composite door range please visit endurancedoors.co.uk, e-mail sales@endurancedoors.co.uk or call the sales office on 01652 659259. You can also add to the Twitter following @EnduranceDoors.
READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0034
February 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk
The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper
TRADE NEWS
Epwin Window Systems
SECURE
Because you need MORE from your door systems STYLISH
DURABLE If you want more sales and more profit from your doors, get in touch today. 0845 340 3968 more@epwinwindowsystems.co.uk epwinwindowsystems.co.uk | #more
0220/0035
www.glassnews.co.uk | February 2020
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WHICH DOOR?
The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper
SMOOTH OPERATOR Apeer is one of the UK’s largest composite door manufacturers which, operating from its 130,000 feet2 factory in Ballymena, Northern Ireland, manufactures its own skins and panels and sources most of its components from the UK and Ireland. In that alone Apeer offers a genuine alternative to a sea of imports, ideal for anyone beating the home grown drum.
In launching the ‘Silka’ door, Apeer’s MD Asa McGillian insists that it is much more than just another composite door design. Glass News asked him to explain…. The composite door market is well served by a huge range of suppliers and products, something that is perhaps not surprising with sales remaining relatively stable throughout the difficult trading and political period experienced by the UK. Even homeowners hedging their bets against the predicted doom created by Britain’s exit from the European Union, have found themselves uprating the aesthetics and performance of their property with a new front door. The reason is that few home improvements offer more bang-per-buck than a good composite door, adding a splash of colour to brighten up aesthetics coupled with improvements in security and insulation. Further, the high traffic of the main entrance to a home will also enjoy a significant upgrade in the operability of the door, with the latest handles, locks and hinges providing the all-important tactile improvement that may be appreciated by all users.
So, plenty of reasons to buy from Apeer, but the company’s MD, the energetic Asa McGillian, insists that its new Silka range is worthy of more attention than would be paid to just another composite door range. “Silka is a smooth matt finish door which looks like aluminium but which has all the benefits of a double rebate, triple glazed 70mm composite and which is inherently more robust than aluminium skinned doors and at a more competitive price point. “Demand actually came from new and existing customers that were looking for a door that they could sell with aluminium windows, and other windows that were emulating the clean, ‘architectural’ look of aluminium, including our own Lumi system. We were also receiving very good feedback in the form of sales as well as questions about variations for our Coloro door, which is part of the more exclusive Lumi range, with a GRP core and the glass finish that is characteristic of that brand. We were frequently told that they liked the smooth finish but wanted something that emulated aluminium…and that is the essence of it really.” Asa therefore led his R&D team in the development of a GRP skinned door that was indiscernible from coated aluminium: “We set about producing a brand new smooth fibreglass skin – which is much harder than it sounds – and which involved several trips to the mould manufacturer,” explained Asa. “The paint finish also requires a different method than used for other Apeer doors. It is air dried rather than
painted in our two usual infrared lines. And due to the flexibility of our manufacturing systems we offer more colour options than any other smooth skinned doors available. “Of course, this means that each Silka door takes longer and is more intensive to produce. But that’s OK, we have the facilities and skills to produce something that’s a little more exclusive, but which still offers great value for money. And actually, especially for someone looking to complement aluminium windows, Silka pricing is very attractive.”
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The proof of course, must be measured in sales. And in this respect, says Asa, Apeer Silka has been one of the company’s most successful launches: “You might think that I would say that,” he says with a grin. “But actually, sales are very good, with a number of new customers joining us at last year’s FIT Show on the strength of Silka, which is an excellent measure. Sales have also resumed very well into 2020.” A smooth operator indeed. READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0036
February 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk
High-Performance Low U-Values
System 10-35 Hi / Hi+ Commercial Door and Framing 0220/0037
For further information and technical data visit
metaltechnology.com
Metal Technology’s new innovative, commercial door and framing system, developed to offer exceptionally low U-values, delivering as low as 1.27 W/m2K with double glazing and 0.93 W/m2K with triple glazing. Providing strength and security to PAS 24, this new system is ideal for high traffic locations within the commercial, health, education or retail sector. Multi-point locking is achievable on sash heights up to 3 metres and 100kgs with glazing from 28mm to 44mm units.
WHICH DOOR?
The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper
WILL ‘CLASSIC BLUE’ BE THIS YEAR’S
BIG DOOR SELLER?
Distinction Doors’ Marketing Manager Bethaney Larkman looks at colour and design trends for composite doors and celebrates the coming of age for the Great British ‘Front Door’ ‘Instilling calm, confidence, and connection, this enduring blue hue highlights our desire for a dependable and stable foundation on which to build as we cross the threshold into a new era.’ Those are some of the poetic words used by Pantone, the International colour matching system, to describe what it calls ‘The Pantone Color of the Year 2020’, an annual statement by the Pantone Color Institute that has influenced colour trends for more than 20 years across fashion, home furnishings and other key sectors. Who are we to disagree? Pantone continue with their description by describing the colour, which is
The introduction of our in-house glass designs over three years ago was a game changer that not only allowed us to introduce a range of glass styles that were unique to Distinction, further increasing homeowner choice.
catalogued as ‘19-4052 Classic Blue’, as ‘A timeless and enduring blue hue…. elegant in its simplicity’ and ‘suggestive of the sky at dusk….’ And actually, we hope that Classic Blue does become a favourite for composite doors because at Distinction, our website colour section references Pantone to allow perfect matching with home colour schemes and other building elements of a home. However, whilst Classic Blue will be a welcome addition to the Distinction range, three greys dominated the list of homeowner preferences – Anthracite, Mouse and Traffic - followed by the ever favourite Chartwell Green. Duck Egg is the first blue to have received multiple favour amongst homeowners, with Ultramarine Blue the nearest hue to the colour that Pantone believes will dominate our lives by the end of the year. Of course, we are able to respond to any requests for Pantone colours on a huge range of door styles, which continue to be dominated by traditional designs, although there are signs that they are
Homeowners are becoming increasingly adept at designing their perfect door through the Distinction door-designer and in experimenting before committing. The ability to create designs without commitment means that homeowners are pushing past otherwise conservative options and are becoming more adventurous in their final selection. The result is that British streets are becoming brighter, more colourful places as homeowners become more
It remains to be seen of course if Pantone’s influence will see ‘Classic Blue’ dominating the catwalks of Paris, London and Milan next year, although it is likely that the ever-popular Anthracite will continue as a leading choice for homeowners choosing their new residential door. But we can celebrate that what was once the commonor-garden ‘front door’ has now been lifted into something that British homeowners now replace more frequently as part of their home’s décor, making choices with pride and passion. At Distinction, we are proud to have played a part in that transition.
getting a taste for more contemporary alternatives that are edging up the table. The contemporary styles in our new Infinity Collection are doing very well and providing the right balance for many homeowners who want something that is a little more modern, yet which will also complement traditional homes.
“Instilling calm, confidence, and connection.” 26
adventurous with their entrance door choices.
READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0038
WHICH DOOR?
The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper
SRJ WINDOWS PROTECT SCOTTISH HOMES WITH APEER INVESTMENT Composite door manufacturer Apeer is enjoying success in the north of the United Kingdom as new and existing installer partners across Scotland broaden their product ranges. In August 2019, the company entered into a new partnership with Dunfermline based SRJ Windows. Following a recommendation, Managing Director Stephen Macintosh contacted Apeer’s sales team and arranged to visit their premises in Northern Ireland for a first-hand glimpse of their extensive composite door range. Highly impressed, Stephen quickly commissioned the introduction of five products into his showroom: “SRJ Windows was looking for a new composite door to offer, and particularly one with a high spec” he said. “Given
our geographical location, many of our customer’s homes are at the mercy of North Sea winds bringing Scandinavian temperatures. Therefore, it was vital that the products we chose were well made and able to sustain the Scottish elements. We have taken on the 70mm double rebated doors which guarantee thermal efficiency by utilising different types of hinges and locks. The range is attractive, and customers seem to be enjoying the new products we have to show them.” Stephen speaks with high regard too, of the staff at Apeer, and the assistance given to enable a successful product launch. He commented: “Due to their size, Apeer can offer support at a level that smaller suppliers can’t. There is a definite feel that they aren’t scared to put money into making sure
NEW CONTEMPORARY SQUARE PULL BAR COLLECTION FROM MILA Mila is launching a stylish new range of square shaped, stainless steel pull bars in its trusted Supa™ range, perfect for the new generation of contemporary aluminium, timber, composite and PVC-U doors. their name is out there and have provided us with absolutely everything we needed to showcase the doors in their best light.” “People buy from people” he continued, “and Mark Neville, our point of contact at Apeer, has been excellent - from the first time we spoke, his knowledge and expertise in this area have embedded a great working relationship. We are currently in receipt of multiple deliveries per week, and it won’t be long before we expand our showroom range further.” www.apeer.co.uk READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0039
Sleek and modern in brushed stainless steel, the new collection includes inline, offset and square options in 1200mm lengths to give customers a choice of looks for even the most high-end door designs. They can be back to back, concealed or throughfixed to suit any type of door, and come with the option of Supa™ square escutcheons for a fully suited contemporary look. The new pull bars offer what Mila is calling the ‘ideal combination’ of looks and performance, with a market leading 25-year guarantee on the finish to make them an even more attractive sales proposition.
The guarantee comes from the fact that the bars are manufactured as standard in marine grade 316 stainless steel designed for coastal and high pollution areas. They have been successfully weather tested to an impressive 1000 hours in a salt spray environment, which is way beyond the 480 hours required for a Grade 5 rating under the corrosion test BSEN1670: 2007. This new collection is part of Mila’s proven Supa™ stainless steel hardware range which already includes hugely popular round pull bar options in a variety of sizes and shapes. Managing Director Richard Gyde says that Mila is keeping pace with demand from customers who want pull bars which suit the styling of their contemporary new door ranges but who don’t want to sacrifice either quality or performance for distinctive aesthetics. He explains: “These Supa™ bars
offer something really stylish and contemporary but also come with all the reassurance of a Mila guarantee and Mila service and support. That, we think, ticks every box for customers selling into the premium retail market in particular.” More details on Mila’s complete pull bar range are available via the website at: www.mila.co.uk. READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0040
0220/0041
Inox Hardware
New! Alucame Decorative Glass
Custom Sidelights
Urban Glazing Cassette
New! Grey Woodgrain Stain
Colorline Matching Frame
Transforming Composite Doors
RegaLead Limited Columbus House I Altrincham Road Sharston I Manchester M22 9AF Telephone 0161 946 1164 Email sales@regalead.co.uk
www.regalead.co.uk
www.glassnews.co.uk | February 2020
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GLASS NEWS INTERVIEW: ADMINBASE
The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper
ADMINBASE: THE ONLY COMPLETELY INTEGRATED SOLUTION FOR HOME IMPROVEMENT WINDOW COMPANIES Rhonda Ridge, author of AdminBase and MD of Ab Initio, talks to Glass News’ Editor, Chris Champion about their market leading Installer management software. I understand Ab Initio Software has been around for about 20 years but was AdminBase the software that launched the company or was there software that preceded it? Rhonda Ridge: I started in a small way back in 1991 when I was working with a small family owned double glazing installer and, up to that point, my involvement in software was purely as a user. At that time all our records were manual and there was nothing within the industry that offered processing from lead through to a sale or a service call. It was this fact that inspired me to develop software that the industry could use and increase its efficiency. The manual recording was laborious and clumsy and it seemed obvious that software was the answer. It took a couple of years to develop AdminBase to the point that it could be offered to third parties and it has continued to develop by listening to the needs of our customers.
Ab Initio? I know enough from my schoolboy Latin that this means ‘from the beginning’ but does this refer to offering starter software
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for small companies right through to software for large companies or is it that you have been involved, personally, from the very beginning? Rhonda Ridge: Pretty much both! The software had to be developed from scratch and, yes, I was there at that very beginning. Ab Initio seemed an appropriate company name although the product itself is named AdminBase.
You have a finance background so how did you become involved in software? Rhonda Ridge: As I said, I was working at an installer and with my previous experience in accounting, I had been involved with computer technology and software development since the early days of PCs, so it wasn’t completely foreign to me. Being involved in finance with large banks and insurance companies I had seen plenty of software systems aimed at managing companies and it was a matter of adapting and developing the thinking behind these packages to suit the window industry’s needs.
Over time AdminBase has become a very sophisticated management tool and is generally recognised as being the industry standard with thousands of users throughout the UK and Ireland.
What is your target company for the software? Rhonda Ridge: It is, essentially, a tool for the installer. However that installer can be as small or as big as you like. We have single-user companies right up to very large companies with hundreds of users. I wouldn’t want it to sound as if AdminBase is all me! We have a very clever and experienced team that takes the software forward and provides essential services to our customers.
By essential services, are you meaning training? Rhonda Ridge: That is a small but important part of the service but it goes much further than that. Understanding a company and the unique challenges they face is essential before they embark on rolling out AdminBase. It’s really all about ensuring a company can gain maximum benefit and efficiency right from the word
Rhonda Ridge, Ab Initio
go. This is why our team includes very experienced people who have worked within the fenestration industry and understand the needs of a customer.
With the software continually developing, I presume it requires a team of high-end developers? Rhonda Ridge: It does, and their knowledge has to keep pace with technological advances. It’s no longer a single database. Now it’s all about JSON, Javascript frameworks, HTML, API's, C#, open source, multiple database, and also Delphi. We are constantly developing add-on modules for AdminBase and these
February 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk
GLASS NEWS INTERVIEW: ADMINBASE and accuracy that it brings, AdminBase comfortably pays for itself. Keeping everything straightforward for the customer is important to us.
I particularly liked how each upgrade from Pro, Plus and Commercial is clearly laid out on the website… Rhonda Ridge: From my own experience, as a Financial Controller, I know my first questions to anyone bringing a proposal to me for the purchase of anything would be around what I get for the money, and what is that money. additions are driven by our contact with our customers and the changing landscape of their businesses and customer needs. Customers can start with simple software and upgrade and add licences as their business develops.
Forms section allows for Customers questionnaires, quality plans and fitting information sheets and all letters are customisable. The Reports section gives Management Reporting information as well as Sales Reporting.
How does that work?
Altogether, our base software is very powerful in its own right and it’s easy to upgrade as the need arises.
Rhonda Ridge: We try and keep the offering as simple as possible and offer four grades from Startup, through Pro, Plus and Commercial Startup is designed to provide entry-level management for the smaller business. AdminBase Startup will help keep track of sales activity and contracts, including the recording of fitting dates and order values, while providing basic correspondence and management reporting, to help a company respond to its own needs as the business grows. As you would expect AdminBase Startup can be seamlessly upgraded at any time, retaining all of a company’s existing records. It provides a very powerful tool, which includes a Leads database with Comments, Results and Analysis built in. It also has a Contracts section for entering Contracts, Products, Fitting Information and with Financial Records and Audit Trail. The Letters section gives Correspondence, all the Financials including Pro Formas, Statements and Receipts. A Fitting
Naturally, my next question would be ‘how much?’ However, it’s pretty clearly set out on the website, and seeing prices displayed is pretty unusual! Rhonda Ridge: There is nothing to hide! It’s all very well explaining an offering to a potential customer but when it comes to price and the salesman starts to prevaricate, that’s when the warning signals sound. Essentially for AdminBase there is no significant outlay upfront, with all of our products now offered on a subscription. Of course, there are certain items we have to quote for, particularly if it involves customising software or importing from existing systems. But even for small users, when offset set against the costs of staff and the efficiencies
I was looking at a piece you wrote in Glass News in December about further updates to AdminBase, particularly a new function which allows users to track all warranty and guarantee information for individual contracts at the push of a button. Rhonda Ridge: We have recently launched a range of mobile apps that include sales, surveying, installation and remedial services, and these fully integrate with every stage of the marketing to after-sales support process. Utilising the latest mobile computing technology, AdminBase now allows these key tasks to be managed and completed in the customer’s home, with all inputs sent automatically into the central system via the latest mobile computing technology. Despite the advanced technology behind the system, all entries are made using intuitive, simple inputs easily managed by even technophobic operators, with data sent and recorded centrally to ensure accurate records are available throughout the process; indecipherable scrawls on scraps of paper are a thing of the past.
The apps look like a key addition to AdminBase. Why have these been launched now? Rhonda Ridge: When I originally created AdminBase, the ability to mobilise the system with on-site functionality simply wasn’t possible, but now, thanks to the high-speed Internet connectivity of modern portable devices, it has revolutionised what we can now do to bring AdminBase functions on site. This latest update gives users a simple and effective way of completing key tasks on site, including keeping track of warranties and guarantees, eliminating paperwork and creating a favourable impression with homeowners in the process. The Cloud version of AdminBase is now accessible from wherever the user may
www.glassnews.co.uk | February 2020
be subject only to mobile phone signal availability. But even in weak areas, inputs can be made and as soon as a good signal is received, all data will be uploaded. AdminBase is about a lot of things, including getting rid of those scrawls! It is also about good order, efficiency, accuracy and making life easier for everyone concerned. And that includes our customers’ customer. Any efficiencies save time and money and everyone benefits. However, the software is not all about the fitter, per se. It is valuable for canvassers, sales representatives, surveyors, fitters and service engineers who utilise simple forms that automatically take the user through pre-set stages of their particular function. The apps allow contract-legal signatures to be collected and transmitted directly back into the central AdminBase system.
I noticed that AdminBase has over 3,000 users in the UK. Is that market leading? Rhonda Ridge: It probably is but that isn’t especially important. Certainly, our user base continues to grow but, more importantly, the software itself and the functionality continues to grow. Keeping up with the developments in technology is very important and the use of mobile devices is driving our development.
And where does AdminBase go from here? Rhonda Ridge: We keep working with our customers and watching developments within the market and with technology. AdminBase will continue to provide a software solution that is cost effective, easy to use and utilises the current technology while keeping an eye on what is coming next!
Many thanks for talking to Glass News, Rhonda.
READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0042
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WINDOWS
The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper
ICENI WINDOWS POISED FOR GROWTH WITH KENRICK A leading trade fabricator has boosted production and is on target to increase turnover by 15% this year with the help of its hardware supplier Kenrick. Having invested in a new 40,000 square foot factory in 2017 to expand production of its range of PVCu and aluminium windows, Essex-based Iceni Windows wanted to source a new shootbolt that was quicker and easier to fit. As well as helping Iceni Windows to speed up production rates, it was also important that the new system could be adapted to suit the Rehau, AluK and Residence 9 profiles that Iceni uses. After reviewed a number of solutions, the firm chose the Centurion Fast Fit shootbolt window locking system from Kenrick and has increased production to 700 frames a week since switching. Paul Foyle, managing director at Iceni Windows, explains: “We had been working with our previous supplier for some years and were happy with the product, but we wanted to find a shootbolt that would speed up the fitting time for our fabricators even further. We liked the design of Kenrick’s Centurion Fast Fit shootbolt and were
impressed with how Kenrick tailored the keeps so that we could use it across all of our windows. This means that we don’t have to order and stock a variety of shootbolts, which is a huge benefit to us. “Adding more factory space and switching to Kenrick has helped us to ramp up production and we’re well on course to increase turnover by 15% this year, which is a terrific achievement. We’re certain that Kenrick will be able to keep pace with our growth and we’re looking ahead to a long and successful future with them.” Steve Williams, Kenrick’s sales and marketing director, added: “We’re delighted to be working with one of the industry’s fastestgrowing fabricators and to have supported this impressive growth with a product that’s designed to maximise productivity. We’re pleased to have delivered just what they want with a flexible and cost effective locking system that’s guaranteed to perform. We’re looking forward to continuing our alliance with Iceni Windows and to support them in their next phase of growth.” Centurion Fast Fit is ‘non crop’ system that’s simple and rapid to install. A reliable, adaptable
and cost effective locking solution, it features steel shootbolts and up to eight locking points to provide the highest levels of security. Iceni has recently strengthened its link with Kenrick and is now also using the high security Excalibur door lock on all of its doors. The Excalibur door lock features three sintered steel hook bolts, which are supported by two steel anti lift pins for added security and three roller cams to provide compression and very smooth operation. The lock is fully extendable to give the fabricator maximum flexibility. In addition, the gearbox is sprung on both spindles, which eliminates the need to buy more costly sprung handle sets. A one piece keep is available as are individual hook roller and centre hook latch and roller keeps. Both the Centurion Fast Fit shootbolt and Excalibur door lock are Secured by Design approved and meet the requirements of PAS 24. They have been function tested to in excess of 100,000 cycles and exceed the requirements of BS EN 1670 Grade 4 (severe) rating for salt spray corrosion resistance. Kenrick is a leading supplier of hardware solutions for PVCu, aluminium and timber
Paul Foyle from Iceni Windows (left) with Steve Williams of Kenrick (right)
window and door systems. The company has a proud heritage spanning more than 200 years, having been established by Archibald Kenrick who manufactured buckles and livery fittings. Kenrick’s range of top quality products includes the market leading Excalibur multi-point locking system, the four-point Centurion system and the Easifit and Espagnolette locking systems. Tel: 0121 553 2741 - www.kenricks.co.uk READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0043
RECORD-BREAKING END TO VICTORIAN SLIDERS’ BUMPER 2019 Europe’s biggest sash window manufacturer is celebrating a record-breaking end to a resoundingly successful 2019. Victorian Sliders made a staggering 2,347 windows in the second week of December, more than any other in its fifteen-year history. It comes as the South Wales firm reaches the end of a year that saw it register an 8.98% growth in sales - something which Group Managing Director Andy Jones says will set the tone for 2020. “We’ve got some incredibly ambitious plans for the twelve months ahead,” Andy comments. “We’ve invested £10m over the last five years to lay the foundations for the next phase in our history - and in 2019, we’ve seen that really start to bear fruit.
“Now, we’re able to produce more windows, more quickly, to higher standards than ever before. But in 2020, that’s going to accelerate even further. “By the middle of the year, we’ll have launched the next generation of EcoSlide window, an ingenious new design we’ve developed entirely in-house, and we’re planning to spend a further £1.8m on other projects. “Some of this will go on bringing more state-of-the-art technology to our recycling centre and mixing plants - and we may have a few surprises in store on the product front before the year is out. All in all, we’re delighted with our performance in 2019, and are gearing up for even bigger and better things in 2020!”
For more information visit www.victoriansliders.co.uk or call 01269 846200. READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0044
ALUK LAUNCHES NEW FLUSH VARIANT OF POPULAR 58BW SYSTEM AluK has added yet another variant to its hugely versatile 58BW window system, with the launch of the new 58BW Flush. This gives AluK customers a clever and cost-effective way of targeting the fast growing flush window market with a window which requires just three new flush profiles and no changes to their existing 58BW fabrication set ups.
Marketing Director Sioned Roberts says that for AluK customers it represents a real opportunity to win business not just in the traditional timber replacement market, but also in those domestic and commercial projects where the emphasis is on contemporary styling. She explains: “The 58BW Flush offers a perfect combination of flush finish and the option of slim sightlines, which makes it ideal for contemporary new builds and refurbishment projects replacing slimline timber or even steel. It’s a natural extension to the 58BW system and, like the rest of the range, is quick and easy to fabricate.” The new AluK 58BW Flush is available with a choice of contemporary sashes to create either 70mm or slimmer 46mm sightlines. The sharp shadow line can be achieved with open-out sashes in bottom, top, side, French casement, and multi-light opening, fitted using dummy sashes.
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AluK is confident that it is once again leading the way with the 58BW Flush in terms of design innovation. For example, it features a double rebate which means it can achieve market leading weather performance even in more exposed locations, and it utilises common hardware with the existing 58BW and Heritage ST windows which ensures that it can withstand a full range of weather conditions. The 58BW Flush achieves greater weather performance with friction stays on the sidehung windows, where alternatives in the market offer peg stays that are vulnerable to damage in windy conditions. Like the rest of the 58BW range, the 58BW Flush is available in stock on a five-day lead time in grey, white and black single and dual colours.
Coinciding with the launch of the new window, AluK has unveiled a new range of handles to suit the new Flush addition as well as the other styles within the 58BW range: Tilt-Before-Turn, Steel Replacement and standard casement windows. The handles are suited aesthetically across open-in and open-out and are available in colour-matched Anthracite grey as well as black, white and silver. Whilst offering more choice, the new handle range is a stylish and cost-effective choice for fabricators. All of the variants in AluK’s 58BW system can be manufactured using the same core components. More details are available at: www.aluk.co.uk.
READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0045
February 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk
You can’t put a price
on safety
Beware of imitations!
Hidden components such as reinforcement are critical to the quality of your windows and doors
6 reasons to
#makesureitsliniar
1
Guarantees
2
Trademark
3 4 5 6
Our guarantees ensure that all components used in the manufacture of Liniar products have been fully approved by Liniar.
The sale of a product under the Liniar name includes parts supplied or approved by Liniar to ensure no infringement of our Registered Mark.
Part Q and Secured by Design
Liniar specified and supplied products can be used in conjunction with Liniar supplied test evidence for Part Q and Secured by Design compliance.
Thermal Simulations
More than 2,000 thermal simulations on our website, carried out using Liniar specified and supplied components, are a valid and valued service.
Commercial Contracts
All products manufactured and supplied for commercial contracts are supported by Liniar, with commercial support and lead generation provided.
Technical Support
All technical support and structural calculations provided by Liniar are carried out on the basis of fully guaranteed Liniar products being supplied.
0220/0046
01332 883900
sales@liniar.co.uk
www.liniar.co.uk
WINDOWS
PROFILE 22 PROVING LUCRATIVE FOR NEW DESIGN WINDOWS
New build specialist fabricator New Design Windows in Barnsley began fabricating in October last year and it’s already seeing considerable success. It has quoted £7m of contracts to date and has achieved a 50% conversion rate, supplying the top ten housebuilders in the UK. Alan Burnett, Managing Director of New Design Windows, said one of the reasons for the company’s early success is its choice of system partner.
He said: “We chose Optima from Profile 22 because it is one of the most considered systems on the market. The aesthetics of the products, the brand identity and the extensive guarantees combine to offer a winning solution that is helping us to secure some substantial contracts.” Profile 22 is an Epwin Window Systems brand, which Alan said added an extra level of reassurance. “Epwin Window Systems has a very strong brand position in the market and offers a superb stable of Britishmade systems.” New Design Windows early success is also down the level of reliability and expertise it can offer. “We operate from a new 10,000 sq ft factory operation and we are a proactive and knowledgeable team with 150 years’ fenestration experience between us. It means our customers, whether national housebuilders or local regional builders, can trust us to deliver,” said Alan. Katrina Earl, Head of Sales at Epwin Window Systems, said: “We are delighted to welcome New Design Windows to Epwin.
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INSTALLER FOCUS
“We are delighted to welcome New Design Windows to Epwin. Profile 22 is the most popular commercial system on the market, so it’s the perfect choice for anyone targeting the new build sector. With the added advantage of the level of quality and expertise Alan and his team are able to offer, we’re not surprised they’re seeing such early success.” Profile 22 is the most popular commercial system on the market, so it’s the perfect choice for anyone targeting the new build sector. "With the added advantage of the level of quality and expertise Alan and his team are able to offer, we’re not surprised they’re seeing such early success.” New Design Windows manufacture a comprehensive range of windows and doors using the Optima Sculptured system along with Profile 22’s cavity closer. The award-winning Optima Sculptured system is a fully-integrated, 70mm-depth profile which is easy to install and suitable for a wide range of projects. New Design Windows may only be a young company but it’s already proving what it has to offer. And because it’s got the right system partner by its side, it looks certain to go on to achieve even more! Tel: 0808 101 4143 - www.profile22.co.uk
READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0047
FENSA LAUNCHES NEW INSTALLER MARKETING PACKAGE
FENSA has launched a new Installer Marketing programme, designed to help FENSA Approved Installers realise the full potential of the UK’s largest and most prominent glazing competency scheme with a suite of expertly tailored and affordable marketing strategies. Working in partnership with CMDi, the leading marketing specialist that was responsible for FENSA’s recent high-profile TV campaign, FENSA’s new Installer Marketing package covers Pay Per Click (PPC) and Search Engine Optimisation (SEO), social media management, content marketing and digital & press advertising.
Designed to enable members to concentrate on their core business by removing the hassle and hard work of marketing, FENSA installers can also choose from a range of other services that include design consultation for company branding, logos and van decals; a website re-fresh or re-build including design and messaging enhancements and SEO; assistance with a complete digital marketing strategy; plus homeowner marketing that includes brochures, email templates, Point of Sale (POS) material and even workwear design. Chris Beedel, FENSA’s Director of Membership, commented: “FENSA Approved Installers already have a big
advantage in that they are associated with the FENSA brand, one that has renewed recognition with homeowners thanks to the success of our 2019 TV advertising campaign that reached 63% of the adult population in the UK, and culminated in more than 247million viewings over the course of the year. “We are aware of course, that it is still a very competitive marketplace for installers and that it takes a lot of time and effort to promote your business effectively,” he continued. “It is for this reason that we have launched the new Installer Marketing package, as not only does it build on the momentum of the TV campaign, but it will help installers to communicate and reinforce the advantage of FENSA membership to homeowners, helping them to stand out from the crowd and ultimately, win more business.” Dianne Lucas, managing director of CMDi, added: “Marketing is a vital element of any business growth strategy, but it needs to be constantly managed and monitored for it to work properly and this can often stretch the resources of busy installation companies. With FENSA Installer Marketing, installers can be relieved of this burden by selecting a tailor-made marketing plan that will not only precisely suit their requirements but will demonstrate a much more effective use of their marketing budget as a result.” For more information on the FENSA Installer Marketing package, please visit: https://www.cmdi.co.uk/special-services/ fensa-installer-marketing/ READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0048
February 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk
0220/0049
INSTALLER FOCUS
The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper
FOAMFIX ADDS TO HODGSON’S EVER EXPANDING PRODUCT RANGE Hodgson Sealants have just added their new Foamfix expanding foam in a gun grade formulation, along with a dedicated cleaner and a gun, to their everexpanding product range.
and it can be cut or sawn once cured, along with its compatibility with paint, plaster and other sealants.
Foamfix is suitable for a wide range of gap filing and sealing applications and is a moisture cure, polyurethane construction foam developed by Hodgson for the use in window and door installations. It can add structural rigidity in applications and with low post-expansion, it reduces the risk of damage to surrounding substrates. Two of the key features of Foamfix are its high thermal insulation and sound reduction properties, along with the fact that it’s also highly adhesive. It’s been formulated to cure quickly
As a gun grade foam, it provides for better application, the reduction in waste and there’s also a dedicated gun and cleaner available.
The Endurance Installer of the Month awards went out to Ampthill Glass Centre in October, NR Windows in November and Curtis Home Improvements in December and each of these respective businesses shared in the delights of being recognised by one of the UK’s most trusted composite door manufacturers. Endurance Showroom of the Month Awards also went out to Andy Glass Windows in October, Panoramic Windows
For further information or to use the secure online shop please visit www.hodgsonsealants.com, call 01482 868321 or follow them on Twitter @HodgsonSealants. READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0050
in November and the Home Hub Group in December. Combined, both of these awards are in recognition of outstanding business practices and in communicating to homeowners just how good the Endurance door now is.
Emplas has launched its new Approved Installer Scheme, offering wide-ranging lead generation and sales support, plus plug-in-and-play digital retail sales tools.
Retail support can be accessed by Emplas Approved Installers through their EVA login, or via their dedicated customer support assistant.
Part of the trade-specialists customer service and support offer, qualifying members of the scheme get access to dedicated lead generation, including network listing; real-time lead distribution; automated customer response and real time reporting.
The launch comes after a call last month by Emplas for installers with experience in, or the ability to enter the commercial sector. It was made after the trade specialist sector, became inundated with leads from housebuilders.
They can also access a free retail window and door configurator website plug-in, allowing homeowners to develop a visual representation of their new windows and doors and see them in different colour options. Emplas Approved Installers can also upload a 360∞ ‘own-label’ virtual tour of Emplas state-of-the-art manufacturing facility, plus dedicated consumer product showcase videos.
Scott Foster, Group Marketing Director of Endurance Doors commented: ‘Our Installer of the Month and Showroom of the Month awards are an important part of our marketing activity for Endurance. We actively help our customers to grow and to help close more sales and it’s a very much a business partnership that flourishes, as our strong sales trajectory shows.
The comprehensive support package also includes showroom support and sales materials and literature, branded product brochures, technical guides, downloads and product image bank.
He continued: ‘We are also a business that both cares and listens and that’s part of the reason why so many companies are making the change to an Endurance composite door.’
Ryan Johnson, Managing Director, Emplas said: “Retail lead generation is tough. Our customer support strategy is twofold. We’re generating retail leads direct for our customers but we’re also making tools and resource available to them to support their own campaigns.
For further information on the Endurance Solid and Secure composite door range please visit endurancedoors.co.uk, e-mail sales@endurancedoors.co.uk or call the sales office on 01652 659259. You can also add to the Twitter following @EnduranceDoors. READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0051
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WITHOUT THE TIE-IN
Gary Thomas, commercial director of Hodgson Sealants commented, ‘Foamfix is yet another new launch to come out of our product development programme this year. It’s our intention to build on our outstanding product range and to become the default sealant brand in the UK for the trade and specialist applicator markets.’
ENDURANCE ACCOLADES FOR INSTALLERS AND SHOWROOMS ACROSS THE UK Endurance Doors celebrated a strong end to 2019 with their Installer of the Month and Showroom of the Month awards presented to a number of their installation partners, who enjoy the merits of a solid core composite door that’s packed with technical features.
THE INSTALLER NETWORK
Customers can also access website and SEO support through digital specialist, ICAAL as an approved Emplas partner.
“This includes a retail window and door configurator, which can be uploaded to their website and allows consumers in effect to build their own window or door and try out different colour options, plus access to print and other retail collateral that we’ve trialled and developed within our own retail business. It’s a short-cut – and far lower cost route – to an effective retail marketing campaign.”
“We’re continuing to see exceptional demand from new build”, continued Ryan, “and we’re still very keen to speak to installers with new build and commercial installation experience, or with the infrastructure to enter the market for the first time, including experience in Window Designer.” Emplas has invested more than £5m investment programme on its shop floor since 2017, giving it increased capacity but also flexibility with two fully automated window lines and with 90% of products going through just two Rotox 8-head welders. This brings Emplas’ weekly capacity up to 3,200 frames across two shifts. “We’ve got the infrastructure right and we have capacity to grow and grow sustainably”, Ryan said. “This brings our focus very much back to customer support, particularly lead generation – across sectors. “We’re making tools available to members of the new Approved Installer Network, without any complex tie-ins or commitments. Simply that they share our values and commitment quality and customer service. For more information on Emplas visit www.emplas.co.uk, email info@emplas.co.uk or call 01933 674880. READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0052
February 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk
The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper
NEW PRODUCT
A NEW LOOK WITH LINIAR Adding to its successful PVCu foam roofline range, Liniar’s introduction of high quality shiplap cladding gives installers, self-builders and home owners the finishing touch they’ve been asking for. Launching in plenty of time for the Spring season, when consumers are looking for ways to spruce up their property and garden, Liniar’s shiplap cladding is made from the same lead-free, high quality materials as the rest of its range, with fully matching foiled finishes available – providing an eco-friendly, durable and low-maintenance alternative to cedar shake or timber cladding.
CHANGES IN PRODUCT DEMAND Whilst demand for cladding has traditionally been within the holiday home market, the increase in interest from other sources is rising sharply – especially with self-builders, renovators and homeowners looking for a change.
MULTIPLE MARKETS Self-builders are on the rise, and they’re building a completely different style of house – contemporary projects with a mix of cladding and traditional brickwork providing them with the perfect finish. Modern buildings aren’t the only ones where cladding is desired, however – when dealing with unsightly masonry that can be expensive and time consuming to fix, Liniar’s shiplap cladding can make one of the biggest impacts. Cheaper and faster to use than rendering brickwork, PVCu cladding offers a clean finish whilst also being low maintenance, durable and sustainable – and customers are loving it.
THE PERFECT ALTERNATIVE What makes Liniar shiplap cladding even more attractive is that whilst it resembles its timber counterparts, it requires none of the on-going maintenance – that means no sanding, painting or staining. Simply giving the cladding a wipe down with warm soapy water keeps it looking fresh and new – a definite bonus for homeowners who aren’t looking for a high-maintenance solution.
EASY TO FIT The product itself is a 150mm wide interlocking board, supplied in lengths of 5m. It’s been designed with installers in
www.glassnews.co.uk | February 2020
mind, with a hidden fixing, making it simple to fit with an exceptional quality finish.
FIRE TESTED Safety is always paramount to Liniar, which is why its shiplap cladding has been fire safety tested, achieving one of the best results for PVCu cladding on the market – providing peace of mind for families and property owners.
SUSTAINABLE Liniar’s shiplap cladding is made of the same high-quality materials as the rest of its roofline range - 100% lead-free with an element of recycled PVCu – making it sustainable and environmentally friendly.
NEW FOR 2020 Liniar shiplap cladding can be ordered in over 30 colours on short lead times, with White, 7016 Grey, Rosewood and Black/ brown foils available from stock. High quality foils are applied at the production stage by Liniar, making it a perfect match to fascias, soffits and windows. For additional information on shiplap cladding visit www.liniar.co.uk/shiplap-cladding/. READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0053
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TRADE NEWS
The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper
MORLEY GLASS & GLAZING AND ANGLO EUROPEAN SECURES TRIO OF INDEPENDENT TEST APPROVALS SAINT-GOBAIN GLASS TAKE RECYCLING TO THE NEXT LEVEL Integral blinds manufacturer Morley Glass & Glazing is working in partnership with Saint-Gobain Glass to take recycling to the next level. The two companies are joining forces to recycle and re-use post-consumer glass; that is glass that has been taken out of old windows that have reached the end of their life. Saint-Gobain Glass already operates the UK’s largest cullet or waste glass return scheme and, since the introduction of using cullet in the manufacture of float glass, the company has been able to increase the amount of recycled material utilised to 35% rising to 41% in some cases. However, the majority of the 56,000 tonnes of waste glass returned every year comes from the manufacturing process (pre-consumed glass) rather than glass that has been utilised in end products. Morley Glass & Glazing has now stepped in and offered its 50,000 sq ft manufacturing space in Leeds, West Yorkshire
to serve as a collection centre for post-consumer glass and has installed a glass crushing machine and employed one new member of staff to manage the scheme. See the video here of the glass crushing machine in action. Ian Short, managing director at Morley Glass & Glazing said: “We already send our waste glass from the factory to Saint-Gobain Glass in Eggborough to become cullet and be used in the production of new float glass. Now we are offering our customers the opportunity to return their post-consumer glass to us for recycling free of charge. The money we receive for the recycled glass will be donated to local environmental charities. “It seems such a waste for our vans to return empty after delivering our sealed units with integral blinds inside throughout the UK, so why not encourage our customers to pack them full of old windows and doors that they are replacing. This saves our customers the cost and inconvenience of disposing of them to landfill or other commercial recycling schemes that will levy a charge for the service. We will then separate the metal and frames from the glass and ensure each element is recycled and reused as fully as possible.”
Mike Butterick, Head of Marketing at SaintGobain Glass said: “This is a fantastic partnership that delivers a sustainable solution for the whole supply chain. Using one tonne of cullet saves 1.2 tonnes of raw material, including 850 kg of sand; reducing CO2 emissions by approximately 300 kg. “Our innovative use of cullet in the glass manufacturing process has always been a key differentiator for the business and this partnership takes it one step further. It demonstrates Morley Glass & Glazing’s commitment to the environment as they are incurring the additional costs of transporting postconsumer glass from sites across the UK back to their factory in Leeds and sorting and disposing of all component parts of windows and doors. Plus they are donating the proceeds to environmental charities. “Mirrored, lacquered and coated glass can all be returned and used in the manufacturing process. As cullet takes less energy to process than raw materials, this benefits both SaintGobain Glass and the environment.” Saint-Gobain Glass is committed to ensuring none of the cullet returned ends as landfill. Therefore, if the cullet doesn’t pass the company’s strict screening procedure, provisions are made for it to be recycled elsewhere via a third party. For more information about Morley Glass & Glazing’s glass recycling scheme visit www. morleyglass.co.uk or visit Morley Glass’s YouTube Channel to see the glass crushing machine in action.
Morley Glass & Glazing has installed a glass crushing machine at its premises in Leeds to enable more post-consumer glass recycling
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READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0054
Anglo European has received a series of independent test approvals on its PVC-U window and door galvanized reinforcements.
Conducted by Build Check, testing found that reinforcement options from Anglo European matched requirements set by Rehau, Veka and Liniar, for reinforcement with weathertightness tests fully compliant with BS6375-1:2015. Completed at the end of November, the series of independent assessments also found that both of the coating grades offered by Anglo, which include GZ275UK and GZ140EU met reinforcement performance criteria set out by the three leading systems companies. “We’re here to give fabricators options”, said Paul Sullivan, Managing Director Anglo European Group. “The independent test results that we have got back from Build Check reaffirm what we’re doing and demonstrate that the reinforcement we supply is equal to that supplied by systems companies, meeting and exceeding, all of the criteria performance that they’ve laid down.” This means that across Rehau, Veka and Liniar, Anglo European can offer its customers access to reinforcement options fully tested to BS6375-1:2015, including
“As a fabricator you can go direct, buy your reinforcement from us, already cut to size, immediately taking out labour, and wastage from your business. It’s an instant win.”
air permeability tests in line with BS EN 1026:2016; water tightness to BS EN 1027:2000; wind resistance tests to BS EN 12211:2016; and exposure category classification in accordance with BS 63751:2015 (clauses 6, 7 and 8). This is in addition to pre-existing approvals on Deceuninck and Swish and the 10-year guarantee offered by Anglo European on all steel reinforcements it supplies – and regardless of which of two galvanized steel coating options they choose, GZ275UK or GZ140EU. All reinforcements supplied by Anglo European are also manufactured in DX51D tensile strength steel – exactly the same grade used in the reinforcements supplied by Rehau, Veka and Liniar. With independent testing ongoing with BuildCheck on other systems, including Eurocell, KBE Profine and Profile 22, Anglo has said it expects to be able to announce further approvals in Q1 this year. Paul said: “We offer a standard reinforcement at a standard tensile strength and grade of DX51D – exactly the same as the one supplied by Rehau, Liniar, or Veka. And then we give our customers the choice of either a GZ275UK, again as used by systems companies or a GZ140 option, which is coated to a European standard. “Whichever option they choose, reinforcement complies with BS63751:2015. And whichever route they go down, we can supply it cut-to-size and direct educing wastage, eliminating labour overhead and cutting out handling costs.” Modelling by Anglo shows that its customers are already saving anywhere up to £200,000 a year by buying-in cut-to-size reinforcements direct, rather than going through their systems companies and cutting their own product. This is available in lead times of only three-days from point of order. “It’s been our message from day one”, Paul continued. “As a fabricator you can go direct, buy your reinforcement from us, already cut to size, immediately taking out labour, and wastage from your business. It’s an instant win. “Product is fully tested across three systems with independent testing due to be completed on other systems early in 2020. The option is there to reduce overhead without compromising on performance and critically – to manufacture to the specifications set out by systems companies.” For more information about Anglo European visit www.angloeuropeangroup.co.uk email enquiries@angloeuropean.net or call 0161 231 2354. READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0055
February 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk
The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper
TRADE NEWS
CHOICE SERVICE SUPPORT QUALITY RESPONSE FLEXIBLE 0220/0056
When you partner with Roseview you’re not just buying industry-leading sash windows, you’re getting a lot more. You’re getting what 40 years experience has taught us—that installers want products, service and support they can rely on. That’s why partnering with Roseview for sash windows is the smart choice.
R
oseview
windows
www.glassnews.co.uk | February 2020
#TraditionRedefined
01234 712657 www.roseview.co.uk 37
TRADE NEWS
The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper
ARMSTRONG HAS #COMEALONG TO KOMMERLING CDW SYSTEMS Armstrong Industries is the latest PVCu window and door manufacturer that has decided to #ComeAlong to KÖMMERLING, having changed from another systems company, with whom they had been an established customer for 23 years. The Coventry based manufacturer has been in business since 1996, operating in the South East, Midlands and Home Counties and has already started production the KÖMMERLING 70 system in the form of C70 and O70, along with the enhanced PremiLine patio door. The decision to make the change was according to managing director John Armstrong, ‘a decision that
I should have made several years ago, yet the re-ignited brand this year, was the real catalyst for change.’ He also went on to highlight an important business message in that ‘they tried to build a price orientated business and it was seemingly an unsustainable race to the bottom. Now with investment in what I believe is the best systems house and new German Rotox machinery, we want to build our brand at the upper end of the market as do our valued customers.’ Armstrong Industries will also look to be actively promoting their in-house paint line which enables them to finish any KÖMMERLING window or door to RAL and even Farrow & Ball colours.’ Gareth Jones, managing director of profine UK and the KÖMMERLING brand commented, ‘we’re thrilled to bring Armstrong Industries into the KÖMMERLING family and this is yet another business that has recognised the re-awakening of the brand in the UK. We’ve got bold plans for 2020 with Fensterbau, several events including a golf day and the launch of an installer scheme to help support all of our manufacturing partners including our new ones such as Armstrong Industries.’
From left to right: Brian McDonald and Ian Smith (KÖMMERLING), along with Andy Richards and John Armstrong (Armstrong Industries).
Look out for the KÖMMERLING #ComeAlong campaign on Twitter @ kommerling_uk and for all other information visit www.kommerling.co.uk, e-mail enquiries@profine-group.com or call 01543 444900. READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0057
RECOGNISED AS A CERTIFIED FABRICATOR OF AOV SYSTEMS FROM SE CONTROLS
CDW Systems, the respected trade and commercial fabricator has been recognised as a certified fabricator of automatic opening vents (AOV) from leading manufacturer SE Controls.
“With the continued spotlight on fire safety in high-rise residential and commercial buildings, we’re delighted to provide a compliant ventilation solution that’s suitable for both new-builds and retro-fit projects.”
The Gloucester-based company is now an authorised partner following extensive auditing and inspection. By passing the requirements of the Factory Production Control process, CDW Systems can manufacture smoke and heat exhaust ventilation (SHEV) systems to the standards of EN12101-2:2003.
With smoke inhalation being the leading cause of death for fire victims, AOV systems effectively channel smoke and dangerous fumes out of buildings. When a sensor is triggered by either smoke or heat, the actuators automatically activate to open the vents. In addition to being a key part of a building’s fire emergency plan, AOV systems also allow for natural ventilation to create a comfortable indoor climate.
Richard Smith, Technical Director at CDW Systems comments: “We are incredibly proud to have been accepted as an authorised and audited fabricator for the SE Controls scheme. This is undoubtedly a great assurance for our commercial customers nationwide, knowing they can rely on CDW Systems for genuine CE certified smoke vents manufactured to the highest standard. “It is also a great achievement for the CDW team who work tirelessly to offer both our trade and commercial customers the complete aluminium package. With the addition of AOVs, it is further proof that we are always striving to offer everything our partners need to meet the requirements of every project.
Founded in 1992, CDW Systems has firmly established itself as one of the UK’s leading manufacturers and suppliers of high-quality glazing products. Supplying both trade and commercial installation companies across the UK, CDW manufactures windows, doors, shop front systems and curtain walling from leading systems houses including Sapa: Technal, Reynaers, Aluk and Smart Systems. For more information call CDW Systems on 01452 414853 or visit www.cdwsystems.co.uk. READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0058
IN MEMBER PROUD TO HAVE AMASSED 300 REVIEWS AS A WHICH? TRUSTED TRADER Vantage Windows became an official Which? Trusted Trader in 2017 and has now passed a milestone 300 reviews, with ‘phenomenal feedback’.
2019 also saw the business named ‘Best Window and Door Company’ at the Scottish Home Improvement Awards, for the second consecutive year. Vantage Windows is an Independent Network member based in Belshill, and the company has used only VEKA products since it was founded in 2011. Vantage
MD Ernie Rea believes this has been a significant factor in the firm’s success: “We’ve always used VEKA systems, supplied via Consort Windows, and the quality of the windows is second to none. We’re able to offer virtually limitless options when it comes to style, colour, energy efficiency and that reflects really well on our business. We can rely on quality and quick turnarounds from both VEKA UK and Consort, so our customers don’t have long to wait for their dream home improvements. “We’ve built a reputation for quality and attention to detail, so becoming a member of Independent Network last year has been another really good way to demonstrate our commitment to craftsmanship to new customers. It’s also very reassuring to know that we have that extra level of support behind us whenever we need it – whether it’s sales, marketing or technical assistance. “Vantage was already an ‘official’ Which? Trusted Trader when we joined IN, so we understand firsthand the value of IN’s partnership with this organisation. We recently passed 300 reviews as a Which? Trusted Trader and the feedback has been phenomenal.
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“A company is only as good as its people, and I’m very proud of the whole team here at Vantage who always go the extra mile, ensuring lots of happy customers and lots of repeat business! It’s down to our continuous commitment to quality and service that we were named ‘Best Window and Door Company’ at the Scottish Home Improvement Awards for the second time running, and we’re delighted to have been recognised for all our hard work.” VEKA UK’s Head of Partner Programmes Karen Lund congratulated the team at Vantage on their success; “Vantage Windows is a great example of an Independent Network member; a loyal user of high quality VEKA UK systems completely committed to craftsmanship and customer service. It’s no surprise they have continued to achieve such glowing feedback and have been celebrated twice in the Scottish Home Improvement Awards. Well done to Ernie and the team.” Tel: 01282 473170 www.inveka.co.uk READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0059
February 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk
TRADE NEWS
The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper
ROOM COMFORT HAS NEVER BEEN SO SMART: SIEGENIA AT FENSTERBAU 2020
NEW SOLUTIONS FOR SMART LIVING ENVIRONMENTS
Experience room comfort: At FENSTERBAU 2020 the SIEGENIA GROUP will be using domestic and business area exhibits to show that room comfort has never been so smart. In Hall 4, Stand 215, across approximately 1,000 square meters of stand space, the company will create living spaces that offer added value through intelligent solutions. Below are some of the highlights of the stand.
SMART PRODUCTS
ROOM COMFORT THROUGH INTELLIGENT SOLUTIONS
CONCEALED WINDOW MONITORING SYSTEM
ECO PASS THRESHOLD FOR HS PORTAL LIFT & SLIDE: NOW AVAILABLE IN EVEN MORE VERSIONS
One highlight of the show stand is the launch of senso secure. Smart security is a hot topic within the English market and we are sure we will become a market leader. The new wireless window sensor, senso secure, offers smart security for windows: concealed in the window profile, it provides reliable information about the opening status of tilt & turn or casement windows. It is even the only solution on the market at the moment to detect when handles are left in the open position. The SIEGENIA Comfort app provides information about the open/closed status of elements, while also enabling the operation and control of SIEGENIA smart wall and window ventilators and of motorised drives for windows and doors. The senso secure has an integrated vibration sensor which is currently also unique in the industry. If it detects an attempt at manipulation, it responds with a loud warning tone directly at the window and at the same time triggers a deterrent alarm signal via the SIEGENIA Connect Box. Alarm messages can also be sent as a push notification to your smartphone. This ensures the highest level of smart security. The senso secure window sensor is also easy to fit. The simple, wireless installation makes it suitable for new builds and retrofitting as it can be attached to either the existing window profile or during production in just a few simple steps.
Lift and slide doors are a growing trend, with more people clamouring for greater views of the outdoors uninterrupted by multiple frames. SIEGENIA continues to innovate in this area, as visitors to Fensterbau will be able to see with the ECO PASS threshold for HS PORTAL: the high-performance threshold for lifting and sliding doors, which combines energy efficiency with comfort, aesthetics and accessibility. The solution is suitable for burglar resistance up to PAS24 and therefore also takes into account the security needs of numerous types of end users. Fabricators are won over by ECO PASS with its time-saving and cost-effective installation and the possibility of a tailormade complete package via the COMFORT UNIT; a recent introduction to the UK market. This comprises a complete door package containing precut hardware and preassembled sill. All that is required is the fabricator’s profile, so there is no waste material. The ECO PASS is now available for use with eight PVC system houses.
KFV AS3600C AUTO LOCK DEVELOPMENT: SECURE IN ALL CASES
The senso secure wireless window sensor is just one of numerous smart home systems that SIEGENIA are exhibiting as part of their “smart comfort” and “smart office” displays on the stand
SIEGENIA will also be presenting innovations in their KFV door lock range. Practical, safe, convenient: the new AS 3600C automatic multi-point locking system for apartment buildings offers all residents the option of leaving the building at any time - even with the door locked. The AS 3600C provides a remedy for the emergency operation issues that come with locked apartment doors, for instance in the case of a fire: With this technology, the
Be our guest and experience room comfort for yourself – If you would like tickets to Fensterbau Frontale, which is taking place in Nuremberg between 18th and 20th March, please send an email to info-uk@siegenia.com or contact Claire Wainwright on 024 7662 2000. www.glassnews.co.uk | February 2020
The new AS 3600C automatic multi-point locking system will be on display at the SIEGENIA stand
"The AS 3600C provides a remedy for the emergency operation issues that come with locked apartment doors, for instance in the case of a fire: With this technology, the handle is not blocked, so the door can be opened from the inside at any time without a key." handle is not blocked, so the door can be opened from the inside at any time without a key. Motorised opening is also possible in conjunction with the intercom system. The automatic locking of the door by operating the hooks and deadbolts ensures a clever combination of security and convenience during the closing process. A finger scanner, transponder or keypad can be specified ensuring convenient control via the SIEGENIA Comfort app. From a fabrication point of view, the new solution is appealing thanks to the use of the standard routing dimensions of the AS 3500 and AS 3600. Frequent use of special frame parts is also rendered completely unnecessary. The AS 3600C will be available from the summer. READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0060
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TRADE NEWS
The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper
METAL TECHNOLOGY REDEFINING STUDENT LIVING AT 123 YORK STREET Many cities throughout the UK have seen a proliferation of high spec student accommodation and Metal Technology’s range has proved extremely popular for such applications. In Belfast, 123 York Street, with its varied and complex façade interfaces between cladding and glazing, showcases Metal Technology’s latest architectural glazing technology.
The front entrance screen utilises a 230mm mullion construction which enabled the main entrance to be free of visual structural steel, a key element of the design as specified by project architect Gavin Sloan of RMI and the building has been awarded Belfast Telegraph’s “Commercial Development of the Year”. This commanding entrance was achieved using Metal Technology’s System 17 curtain walling and System 5-20DHi+ Heavy Duty Thermal Doors. The project also used the performance and operational benefits of System 5-35Hi+ Tilt & Turn Thermal Windows using perimeter locking combined with ventilation benefits, System 10 Automatic Sliding Doors and System 26Hi+ Bi-Fold Thermal Doors. The area around the new University of Ulster campus in York Street, in Belfast City centre, is being transformed with
new campus buildings rising up to 16 storeys, which is redefining the skyline. The 12 storey, 407 bed managed student accommodation scheme, on a site adjacent to the expanding campus, is welcoming many of the 11,000 students relocating to the city centre. 123 York Street was conceived to offer students an opportunity to define their experience by choosing their own path, from tenancy length and room option, to student-led events and career advice and the building’s sharp architectural form has clear design integrity in this maturing cityscape. All Metal Technology’s systems are designed to perform seamlessly together to deliver the desired aesthetic and performance standards. Used individually or together, they offer complete design flexibility for creative expression with the assurance of value engineered structural, weather and security performance. For more information on Metal Technology’s range of architectural facade systems or their bespoke student accommodation brochure, visit: www.metaltechnology.com. READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0061
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February 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk
• Steel reinforcement is used where needed, to add additional structural strength.
Introducing the revolutionary PREMIFOLD WINDOW & DOOR SYSTEMS PremiFold
The revolutionary PremiFold window and door systems. The result is a PAS 24 certified and Document Q compliant slide and swing door system and separate window solution for the modern home.
• PAS 24 certified and Document Q compliant • No visible hinges and hardware. door solution. • PremiFold harness existing C70 and O70 Gold® profiles.
• Incorporates both double and triple glazing.
VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO SEE A LIVE DEMO
• Capable of achieving large spans. • Single leg glazing bead is highly secure and easy to install on site. • Steel reinforcement is used where needed, to add additional structural strength. • PAS 24 certified and Document Q compliant door solution.
INNOVATION & ENERGY EFFICIENCY PremiFold is the latest in a long line of product innovations from Kömmerling. It’s quite simply a revelation in the way in which you can open windows and doors, helping to maximise ventilation, without compromising on security. It’s a slide and swing window and door system that is simple and easy to operate for consumers. Kömmerling and parent company, profine Group, also lead the way across Europe with their lead-free Greenline compound that was developed over 12 years ago. In the UK some Systems Companies still use lead as a stabiliser in their PVCu compound. At profine, we understand the importance of the environment in terms of harmful materials, recycling and energy efficiency.
A trading name of Thermal Window & Conservatory Roof Systems Ltd.
01226 294555 or email: paul@therm AVAILABLE IN A RANGE OF COLOURS!
A trading name of Thermal Window & Conservatory Roof Systems Ltd.
0220/0062
Please call: 01226 294555 or email: paul@thermaltradeframes.co.uk T C www.thermaltra 94777 E R I D L A DE
HE T T H T I W Fax: 01226 294777 EC DEAL DIRS R O T T H DIREC DWIRITECTOHRE!S!
www.thermaltradeframes.co.uk Unit 17 Redbrook Business Park, W Unit 17 Redbrook Business Park, Wilthorpe Road, Barnsley S75 1JN
TRADE NEWS
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VEKA RECYCLING ANNOUNCES £100K INVESTMENT
FOR WELLINGBOROUGH FACILITY
VEKA Recycling has announced the latest development to its state-of-the-art Wellingborough facility, in the form of a new silo that has been designed to hold a significant proportion of the old window frames that are delivered to the site, prior to the eventual recycling process.
"We are seeing a sharper focus on improved sustainability and recycling across the industry now, as organisations – along with consumers – respond to the increasing concern on environmental issues." installed mid-December 2019, and represents a spend of £100,000, the latest stage in plans for broader investment across the whole facility that will total £10million. VEKA Recycling’s managing director, Simon Scholes, commented: “We are seeing a sharper focus on improved sustainability and recycling across the industry now, as organisations – along with consumers – respond to the increasing concern on environmental issues. At VEKA Recycling we are absolutely committed to combatting these issues and the new silo represents a key stage of our long-term objectives.”
The new silo, which has a storage capacity of 130-tonnes, will ensure that VEKA Recycling has a greater overall capacity of materials that can be accepted and stored at its plant, and ultimately, will enable it to process even more substantial amounts of waste PVC-U products as the company pushes on with its objectives of keeping as much end of life PVC product out of landfill as possible.
Since moving to its current Wellingborough premises at the end of 2018, the company has rolled out a number of staged investments as it works towards becoming one of the most prominent and advanced recycling centres in Europe. The new silo follows an increase in
This latest development to VEKA Recycling’s Wellingborough HQ was
production space of 20,000ft2 that was signed off earlier in December 2019, and which represented a sizeable addition to its existing factory, with a further £4million of investment in the pipeline before the end of 2020. Simon added: “To build on our recent improvements to storage and production capacity, we will also be purchasing new machinery, as well as expanding and upskilling our workforce, over the course of the next 12 months. The ongoing and planned growth for VEKA Recycling is certainly bold, but is an indication of how determined we are as an organisation to raise the standard of PVC-U recycling in the UK, increase the awareness of our processes and make a positive, and profound, improvement to the environment.” READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0063
BUILDERS MERCHANT BUILDING INDEX
NOVEMBER MERCHANT SALES SHOW PRE-ELECTION DIP The short trading day month of November saw subdued sales for merchants with the lowest total sales in 10 months.
YEAR-ON-YEAR Total Builders’ Merchant sales in November were down 7.4% compared with the same month in 2018. On one less trading day,
average sales a day were 3% down. The best performing sectors in November were Renewables & Water Saving (+5.3%) and Workwear & Safetywear (+3.7%). As average sales a day, Renewables & Water Saving were up 10.3%, Workwear & Safetywear up 8.6%. Tools (-12.7%), Timber & Joinery (-9.6%), Ironmongery (-8.0%), Heavy Building
Materials (-7.9%) and Landscaping (-7.4%) were particularly affected, although a little less dramatically on a sales a day basis (8.5%, -5.3%, -3.6%, -3.5% and -3.0% respectively).
performing sectors were Workwear & Safetywear (+9.3%) and Kitchens & Bathrooms (+8.0%).
MONTH-ON-MONTH
Sales in the 12 months December 2018 to November 2019 were down 0.2% on the same period last year. However, adjusting for one less trading day year-to-date sales are slightly ahead at 0.2%.
Compared with the previous month, October 2019, November’s sales were 10.0% down. However, when adjusted for two less trading days in November, sales were down 1.4%. All product categories were down monthon-month, including Heavy Building Materials (-10.9%), Timber & Joinery (-10.0%) and Ironmongery (-9.8%). Adjusted for trading days, the strongest
OTHER PERIODS
INDEX November’s BMBI index was 113.4, with Plumbing, Heating & Electrical the highest at 134.6. For the full report, including comments from the BMBI’s panel of leading industry Experts, please visit www.bmbi.co.uk. READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0064
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February 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk
EASY TO SELL! EASY TO INSTALL! Make more profit, the easy way! Become a member of Team Guardian today!
This product is both easy to sell and install. Here are some of the many advantages of joining Team Guardian™: Increased sales opportunities with sustainable all-year-round profits Full marketing support package available
This product is in demand!
We supply our Team Guardian™ members with retail leads from our dedicated Guardian™ website Full technical support and in house training Add this brilliant new roof system to your portfolio by becoming an approved and registered Guardian™ roof installer and member of Team Guardian™ and watch your profits soar.
Find out exactly how we can help! Call either Ritchie, David or Debbie on:
01709 710100
0220/0065
Talk to Connaught - we do more so you do less! T: 01709 710100 E: info@connaughtconservatories.co.uk F: 01709 525262
www.connaughtroofs.com
Registration No. RD320
Unit 3, Lloyd Street, Parkgate, Rotherham, S62 6JG
The Guardian™ Warm Roof carries both LABC & LABSS approval throughout Great Britain which will give you an excellent sales advantage and extra peace of mind for your customers.
Visit our dedicated Guardian™ website for more info www.guardianconservatoryroofuk.co.uk
Local Authority Building Standards Scotland
TRADE NEWS FENSA’S ‘ALL THE PROOF YOU NEED’ TV MARKETING CAMPAIGN LEADS TO A HUGE INCREASE IN HOMEOWNER AND INSTALLER AWARENESS FENSA’s latest benchmarking survey has revealed a large increase in homeowner and installer awareness of the UK’s original and most wellknown competent person scheme for the installation of replacement windows and doors, following the launch of its first TV ad in March 2019 and the accompanying social media campaign. The ‘All the proof you need’ campaign was designed to make homeowners aware of the importance of choosing a FENSA approved installation company – and asking for a FENSA certificate on completion of the job – to ensure their replacement windows and doors comply with building regulations, are energy efficient and registered with their local council. A follow-up survey, conducted by YouGov in November 2019, has revealed that the marketing campaign far
The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper
EMPLAS TAKES THE PAIN OUT OF CUSTOMER RETURNS Emplas has launched a new customer returns procedure, designed to make returning faulty or damaged product simpler, while increasing its visibility of any issues in supply.
exceeded expectations and that FENSA-approved installers are reaping the benefits. After nine months of the campaign, 73% of homeowners said they would now only use a FENSA installer to replace their windows and doors. In addition, 50% of homeowners said they now know to ask for a FENSA certificate. As a result FENSA’s website has seen a huge increase in visitors, particularly those using the ‘Find an Installer’ page to find FENSAapproved companies in their local area. Among FENSA-approved installers, the survey revealed, 67% now use the FENSA brand to win work. ”We wanted to see an increase in consumer awareness of FENSA and of installers using the brand to secure new contracts, but these numbers have exceeded our expectations,” said Chris Beedel, FENSA’s Director of Membership. “To see so many of our Approved Installers using the FENSA brand to achieve this goes to show how homeowners now understand the value of the FENSA certificate. For 73%
of homeowners to say they would only use a FENSA Approved Installer to replace their windows and doors is fantastic, and the value of being FENSA Approved is growing by the day.” The TV advert became the first of its kind in the industry when it launched in March. Based on the simple and direct message to homeowners to ask for a FENSA certificate, the campaign was conceived after FENSA realised that, in spite of legislation, many installers still do not register replacement windows and doors with local authorities, meaning homeowners can be left with problems and costs if installers who are not part of a competent person scheme leave homeowners with non-compliant work. FENSA’s ad, along with sponsorship on TV channel Dave and an accompanying series of online marketing campaigns, has meant the brand has been seen almost 250 million times, ensuring homeowner awareness of FENSA has never been higher. READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0066
Launched at the tail end of last year, Emplas has stripped-back process so customer can manage the returns process online through its digital portal EVA, with full visibility of the status of returned products, for example, awaiting collection, returned or refunded. The returns process is initiated by registering a product for return online and then printing out a corresponding returns label and stick it to the product being returned. This is then collected by the delivery driver who will match it to the collection number and once inspected, trigger a credit. This immediately sets the returns and refund process moving, reducing the time customers wait for a refund. If it’s not possible to return product because it would be dangerous to do so, for example, a badly damaged IGU, installers can simply register the failure and trigger the process without physically returning the product. Kush Patel, Deputy Managing Director, Emplas, said that the new process was simpler but also increased its visibility of process as part of Emplas’ programme of continuous improvement. “Our customers don’t need a double hit if something isn’t right”, he said. “If there’s a manufacturing fault or something has been damaged in transit it’s going to cause them disruption. We don’t want to add to that frustration by making our customer returns process overly complicated. “So, we’ve stripped it back, making it far simpler but also significantly improved our own ability to track returns, which means that if there’s an underlying issue in an area of manufacture, or within our supply chain, we know and we can address it.”
Once a Customer Complaint has been filed and the returns label has been attached to the faulty product, customers can then trigger collection through EVA, so that the lorry driver arrives with a list for collection when delivering their next order or as soon as the return is ready. Each returned item is then reviewed by Emplas’ quality control department and a credit is awarded where applicable. “EVA also delivers a push notification to customers who have re-ordered and filed a complaint but who haven’t triggered the return”, said Kush. “Customers have 56-days to return product and get a credit. “The system will prompt them to trigger the returns process i.e. print the label and request collection, to make sure that they stay within that 56-day period.” With one of the UK’s leading OTIFs and, Emplas employs rigorous quality control checks throughout its manufacturing process. This includes de-taping profile and retaping product with customer-branded tape during final checks ahead of dispatch. For more information on Emplas visit www.emplas.co.uk, email info@emplas.co.uk or call 01933 674880. READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0067
MATTHEW GLOVER RETURNS TO WEST YORKSHIRE WINDOWS AS MANAGING DIRECTOR Matthew Glover, known for his involvement with leading window and door industry brands Conservatory Outlet and The FIT Show, has announced his return to West Yorkshire Windows, which he co-founded in 1993 with brother Andrew, to manage the company on a day-to-day basis as Managing Director. Matthew will head the existing management team at West Yorkshire Windows, joined by Richard Morris as Commercial Director. Following a short transition, Andrew Glover, an avid supporter of glazing industry charity fundraising events and former President of the Glass & Glazing Federation, will leave to pursue other interests after almost 25 years with the company. After building a significant majority stake in recent months in the company, Matthew has
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years, with what he says will be “a return to key basics” and backed by the creativity and advanced marketing strategies that helped to establish such brands as Conservatory Outlet and the FIT Show. He has also announced a significant investment programme to ensure financial stability and to achieve the ambitious sales targets.
announced ambitious plans to grow West Yorkshire Windows sales by 40% in three
With West Yorkshire Windows enjoying such accolades as Conservatory Installer of the Year and Installer of the Year, Matthew says he is excited to be returning to the retail market full time: “After I relinquished day-to-day involvement in the FIT Show and the completion of other key projects, I now look forward to returning full time to the industry that has provided so much for my family over many decades. We were brought up in the window and door business, selling and making windows
in our teens, and I am excited at the opportunity to get back to the front line.” Matthew has been instrumental in creating some of the window and door industry’s best-known brands. He co-established Conservatory Outlet in 2005 to provide a complementary manufacturing operation to West Yorkshire Windows and other trade customers, with the companies separated in 2009 to increase focus for both operations. Matthew eventually completed the sale of Conservatory Outlet to the current owners in 2013 to focus on the FIT Show, a majority stake in which was sold in 2018. Matthew continues as Chairman of FIT Events Ltd, which operates the FIT Show. READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0068
February 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk
TRADE NEWS
The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper
0220/0069
www.glassnews.co.uk | February 2020
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TRADE NEWS
The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper
MANDATORY CHANGES
TO EN 1279 FROM MARCH 19TH 2020
Our industry could be forgiven for being distracted with the countless economic and political challenges that were thrown our way in 2019, but in 2020 we have a new and very specific challenge to face, and we need to prepare quickly to ensure continued compliance.
Construction Products Regulation and has undergone several changes that will affect Sealed Unit Manufacturers. The changes need to be addressed urgently. We can’t cover the complexities of the changes in this letter but here’s a summary of how sealed unit manufacturers will need to comply from the March deadline. • Primary and Secondary Sealant – compliance with EN 1279:4-2018 • Molecular Sieves – change in test method and compliance with EN 1279:4-2018 • Foamed Spacer Systems – test methods and compliance with EN 1279:4-2018 • Testing to EN 1279-6:2018– new parameters and tolerances.
The standard for the manufacture of Double-Glazed Sealed Units (IGU’s) has been amended. It is currently in transition and becomes mandatory on the 19th March 2020.
• Change of documentation to reference the new standard. The changes are relatively straight-forward but there is a process that needs to be adhered to before the deadline to ensure ongoing compliance, so companies do need to act sooner rather than later.
This hEN standard - EN 1279:2018 product standard – is needed to comply with the
“The changes are relatively straight-forward but there is a process that needs to be adhered to before the deadline to ensure ongoing compliance, so companies do need to act sooner rather than later.”
As is always the case with changing legislation we’ve found there is a general lack of awareness across the industry and no sense of urgency to meet the deadline, which inevitably leads to a last-minute rush when the deadline is upon us.
Wayne Rogerson, CENSolutions Joint MD
We’re already helping our existing customers to get up to date ahead of the deadline, but we’ve also tried to help companies further afield by providing some free of charge impartial guidance on the issue on our website www.censolutions.com. We’re also happy to talk to anyone who has any questions about these important upcoming changes so that as an industry we can achieve the changes in time for 19th March. READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0070
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February 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk
2020
Enhanced marketing support offering, to support installer partners. Sales in excess of £250m.
2019
£1m investment across plants, machinery and fleet; major expansion at Glazerite Northwest. Capacity to manufacture 4000fpw.
2018
Portfolio now includes over 7000 products. G18 Award finalist.
2017
New Specials Division created to manufacture VS, R9, R7, Warmcore and Imagine Bi-Fold and Patio doors. G17 Award winner.
2016
Glazerite East opens following acquisition of City Beads Ltd, increasing capacity and adding Halo to the range.
0 - 4000 in less than 2 decades
2015
2014
Portfolio expanded to include R9, Solidor, and Imagine Bi-Fold & Patio doors. Secured by Design accreditation on Composite and French doors.
2013
2012
We become VEKA’s largest UK trade fabricator, manufacturing 2200fpw.
2011
VEKA Infinity added to our portfolio.
2010
Glazerite Northwest in Bolton opens; we move to new HQ in Wellingborough.
2009
New composite door range launches; Glazerite Southwest opens.
2008
Accredited with ISO9002 & BS7412; achieve BFRC ‘A’ Rated window.
2007
2006
10 year guarantee on all products and bespoke online ordering system launched.
2005
2004
£700k investment increases capacity to 375fpw.
2003
2002
Joined Network VEKA; expanded premises.
0220/0071
Quality, choice, service and support for customers…that’s what we founded Glazerite on 20 years ago, and they’re still at the heart of our business today. Our rapid growth is testament to the success of our installer partners. It’s been shaped with support from our range of leading suppliers, and delivered thanks to the commitment of our dedicated team. Today we are a leading fabricator with a comprehensive product portfolio of trusted brands. Our manufacturing expertise combined with a customerfocused ethos and investment programme gives our installer partners everything they need to thrive now and in the future.
2001
2000
Glazerite founded by Jason Thompson and John Hewitt from 1000 sq ft factory in Wellingborough, Northants.
Tel: 01933 443222 Email: sales@glazerite.net
glass news - fabricator0120.indd 1
UK Group Limited
www.glazerite.co.uk
27/01/2020 00:28
TRADE NEWS
The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper
SUSTAINABLE LUXA BUILDING SHINES IN SILVER AND GOLD WICTEC CURTAIN WALLING Located in the 22@ district of Barcelona, the Luxa building has been designed by leading architectural practice, Batlle i Roig Arquitectura, to reflect the city’s modern and vibrant place on the world stage: comprising twin towers embellished with silver and gold WICTEC curtain walling, as well as other systems from the WICONA range.
NEW YEAR HIGH FOR ATLAS Atlas Glazed Roof Solutions is looking towards another strong year as it announces that it is more than 15% ahead of budget for new business, with many new installers benefiting from the multi award-winning showroom support package from Atlas. Gareth Thomas, sales and marketing director at Atlas, says: “2019 was a terrific year for Atlas and we are delighted to have welcomed so many new customers on board. We fully expected demand to be high for our Lantern 2.0 because it is the best lantern available on the market today, but we’re very pleased with how the Atlas Flat Rooflight has performed, with year on year sales up by 16%. In a challenging market, we’re really proud to have achieved these impressive results and we’re looking forward to sharing a great year ahead with all of our customers.” Atlas has welcomed scores of installers on board since it launched its Lantern 2.0 a year ago. The slimmest, lightest, finest looking and most thermally efficient lantern that Atlas has ever created, it has become the lantern of choice for many installers because it is easy to sell and quick and simple to install. The Atlas Flat Rooflight was created to deliver ‘ALL SKY AND NO ROOF’, bringing ultimate performance and maximum light in a sleek, minimalistic design. And, like the Atlas Lantern 2.0, it has been designed to be easy to fit to help installers speed up their installations and enhance their profits. “Installers have definitely caught on to the incredible selling potential of these products, which are perfect for the growing flat roof extension market,” adds Gareth. “And we’ve seen a marked increase in the number of firms installing display products in their showrooms. We do encourage our customers to invest in their showrooms because we know that they’re likely to sell a third more products because of them. There really is no better way to show off the contemporary look and minimalistic design of the Atlas range – when homeowners see how good the display looks, it makes an easy sale for the installer.” The Flat Rooflight and Lantern 2.0 displays are just one element of the comprehensive
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marketing support package from Atlas, which has been developed to give installers all the resources they need to create a professional appearance and successfully promote and sell to customers. It includes brochures, which can be personalised with the installer’s logo and company details, digital marketing support, direct mail and advertising templates, retail leaflets and showroom display graphics. The experienced marketing team at Atlas is also on hand to guide installers through their marketing and develop a tailored programme to help them increase sales leads and sell the range of Atlas products. Atlas offers four stock lanterns in its regular range in sizes up to 2m x 4m and five stock lanterns in its contemporary range in sizes up to 1.5 x 3m. Stock lanterns are available on a five-day turnaround and come in white, grey, black, grey on white, and black on white. The Atlas Flat Rooflight is available in three stock sizes (1 x 1m, 1 x 1.5m and 1 x 2m), and five stock colours (grey, black, white, grey on white and black on white), plus bespoke colours and sizes up to 1 x 3m to order. Installers are now also able to source the Atlas lantern and flat rooflight through Stevenswood trade counters and the products are on display in many of Stevenswood’s national network of 34 branches.
Visually in harmony with the business and technological mien of the area, the Luxa building consists of two adjacent, but independently functioning blocks; linked by a shared podium where the entrances connect. The silver coloured building is occupied by Amazon whilst the gold building is home to a coworking space operated by American commercial real estate giant, WeWork. Designed by façade designer Moyser, the elevations to both the nine-storey structures are fabricated using WICONA’s WICTEC 50EL SG modular façade to create extensive glazed areas, which were specified to provide solar protection through silk screen printing: showing a series of attractive, reflective vertical strips. These enable full visibility as well as improved comfort for those inside. The WICTEC EL SG modules were prefabricated in the factory, ensuring quality and uniformity; while facilitating speed of installation and thereby ensuring the project’s demanding program deadlines could be achieved. The building with the silver façade, has an elevation area of almost 10,000 square metres, while the 6,500 square metres of gold façade fronts the second tower. WICSTYLE 65 evo glass doors were chosen for the entrances, their concealed hinges permitting discreet integration into the façade, adding to the monolithic, fully glazed appearance of the structures. A senior architect from Batlle i Roig Arquitectura commented: “All the materials
selected are of the best quality, which gives the building an extremely high standard of comfort and performance, creating a modern atmosphere and high energy efficiency; allowing us to obtain the LEED GOLD certification.” Additionally, the WICONA curtain wall system specified for the project has been awarded the C2C Silver Certificate: confirming the product’s sustainability credentials. The ‘cradle to grave’ assessment takes into consideration how a product is designed, what it consists of and how it will be disposed of at the end of its useful working life. As a means of guidance for specifiers and designers, there are five certification levels (from basic to platinum); each one demanding compliance under the criteria of material lifespan, material reutilisation, use of renewable energy, carbon management and water stewardship, as well as social equity and biodiversity. Like the other WICONA systems the WICTEC façade offers multiple options which extend from the classic stick assemblies to unitised and structural glazed elevations. Compliant with the EN13830 standard for curtain walling, WICTEC is fully tested for weather resistance and fire performance and is adaptable to almost any architectural style thanks to the ready availability of diverse profile types. WICONA is part of the Hydro Group, a world leader in aluminium solutions. Through its globally renowned Hydro Technology Hubs, the group is shaping a sustainable future, with innovative products that satisfy and surpass customer expectations, in line with demands of CSR and increasing environmental regulations. For more information on WICONA’s offering, please visit: www.wicona.com/en/ uk/ or follow WICONA UK & Ireland on LinkedIn.
For further information, please contact Atlas on sales@atlasroofsolutions.co.uk or phone 02838 327741. Atlas Glazed Roof Solutions is part of Customade Group, which operates nationwide and employs 1100 people in multiple manufacturing sites across the UK. The group also includes Polyframe (PVC-u), REAL Aluminium (aluminium), Virtuoso Doors (composite and PVCu door panels), Hourglass Seal (sealed glass units), Stevenswood Trade Centre (trade counters) and Fineline Aluminium (specialist glazing). READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0072
READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0073
February 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk
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ADVENT SUCCESS FOR EPWIN WINDOW SYSTEMS Epwin Windows Systems has reported their annual Advent Calendar event was a huge success with a total of 22,188 entries being received which is an increase of 223.52% over their 2018 campaign.
a fantastic daily prize. The increase in entries was unprecedented and it’s clear that people both across the industry and further afield appreciated the opportunity to spread some festive cheer and win a top daily prize at the end of a busy year.”
The Advent Calendar event runs from 1st – 25th December inclusive each year and a luxury prize is won by one registered entry, selected at random, who has entered the daily draw. Gerald Allen, Marketing Manager at Epwin Window Systems said: “We are delighted with the success of our 2019 Advent campaign. It allows our customers and the wider industry to get involved with the chance of winning
The social reach of the Advent Calendar was particularly impressive with shares coming from as far afield as the MoneySavingExpert forum. As a result of the engaging content, 3,546 new contacts have subscribed to hear more from Epwin Window Systems, email click-through-rate (CTR) increased by an average of 96.76% and email engagements increased by 41.43% compared to 2018 with over 42,000 unique email opens.
FREEFOAM VALUE OUR NEW BUILD CUSTOMERS AS MUCH AS WE DO
Gerald said: “The figures achieved across the campaign are pretty impressive and we are delighted so many people got involved. We are even more pleased to see the level of engagement increase as it indicates an exciting level of interest in what Epwin Window Systems has to offer.” The 2019 Advent prizes were impressive and included an iPhone 11 Pro, Fitbit Versa 2, Beats by Dre Studio3 Headphones, luxury hampers and a Hot Air Balloon Ride for two people. Gerald concludes: “The Advent Calendar event is always a great way to end a year and we are looking forward to doing it again in 2020.” Tel: 0845 340 3968 - www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0075
40 FABRICATORS SWITCH TO DECEUNINCK
FOR ‘BETTER PRODUCTS AND BETTER SERVICE’ In the last three years, no fewer than 40 fabricators switched to Deceuninck from a total of 10 different systems companies. These forty fabricators are a mix of types and sizes from the very large through to the medium and small. Some specialise in commercial, some in new build housing or retail. Many are trade fabricators, others are a mix of trade, retail and commercial. Most moved from other premium sector systems, but many have switched from middle or budget systems, so some are paying a good deal more to get what they need to grow. But the reasons they give for joining Deceuninck are more choice, an unbeatable colour offering, the Heritage Flush family, better service and relationships, and the opportunity to grow. Deceuninck’s strong green credentials, with one of the largest, most modern recycling plants in Europe, has also been a strong contributory attraction. Twenty-two (55%) switched from premium sector systems companies, 11 (28%) from middle sector systems, and 7 (18%) from budget sector systems companies. One was a new start. Deceuninck MD Rob McGlennon
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Deceuninck Managing Director Rob McGlennon said: “No fabricator takes the
decision to switch systems lightly. It’s a big undertaking. They do it because they feel they must - to remove the brakes that are holding them back, and to acquire the growth factor, the competitive edge that will enable them to win business and grow in good markets and bad. In the case of these 40 fabricators who moved to Deceuninck in the last three years, it was the right decision because their sales are flying! As are ours. “These fabricators were hungry to succeed. Our philosophy is to partner fabricators and give them #BestInClass products, support and service so they do well. Deceuninck fabricators set themselves apart with colour and products like the Heritage Flush Window, Heritage Flush Door and Slider 24 patio door. Most of them now sell over 50% colour – our overall sales are 60% foiled nearly twice the market average. “In a market that’s reported to be down around 10%, we finished 2019 a clear 20% up. And we topped a great year by winning ‘Component Supplier of the Year’ at the G19s. And better still, two customers walked away with coveted prizes too. Sternfenster won ‘Fabricator of the Year’ and Nolan uPVC won ‘Installer of the Year’. Here’s to a prosperous and successful 2020!” Ambitious fabricators can visit www. deceuninck.co.uk, call 01249 816 969 and follow @DeceuninckUK. READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0076
General Building Plastics (GBP) is a leading independent supplier of PVC building products to the building and home improvement trade. Based in Rugeley with six other trade counters throughout the Midlands, Shropshire and Oxfordshire GBP also specialise in supply to local and national housebuilders. Working closely with Freefoam as sole supplier of PVC fascia, soffit and gutter since 1994 GBP have found that Freefoam’s support to the new build market to be particularly invaluable. The relationship has grown and developed over the years and to the mutual benefit of both. Courtney Robertson, Area Sales Manager, explains “It would be easy to say we chose Freefoam as a supplier because of the quality of their products and the consistency of supply, and that’s why we continue to buy from Freefoam . . . but the reason why we started the relationship in the first place and the reason why the relationship continues today is the way they value our customers as much as we do.” GBP find that Freefoam’s wide range of styles, sizes and colours of fascia and soffit are particularly suitable for the new build market. The variety enables housebuilders to source high quality, long lasting, low maintenance materials suitable for any style of home, but still allows them to remain competitive in the market place. But as manufactures Freefoam don’t just provide products. They are committed to supporting customers throughout the supply process from providing tender documents, back office support and onsite help and back up where needed. Courtney explained “We find Freefoam’s support invaluable. They also help us build new business by recommending us as new build partners and providing me with sales leads that often lead to quality business. Freefoam work with us as a business, and want us to grow, and we couldn’t have done it without them.” Please find link to video of General Building Plastics and Barwood Homes https://www. youtube.com/watch?v=gYMLHYDyFUw&t=1s www.freefoam.com READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0077
February 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk
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PROFILE 22’S OPTIMA SELECTED FOR AFFORDABLE
HOUSING DEVELOPMENT IN GLASGOW
900 Optima casement windows and French door units in Anthracite Grey have been fitted in a development of 82 new build houses to the north of Glasgow. A brownfield site, formerly the home of the NHS Orchards hospital was acquired by Keepmoat Homes for the development of the 82 two- and three-bedroom homes in seven different styles. The contract for the windows and French doors on the homes was awarded to Glasgow-based Profile 22 Approved Window Contractor Gold Seal Windows. Optima is the award-winning 70mm system for Profile 22. Its casement windows are available in sculptured and chamfered variations. Aesthetically, Optima casement windows offer improved sightlines and a higher glass-to-frame ratio. The system
meets all requirements for thermal efficiency as standard and offers a wealth of intelligent design features. And double and triple glazing options mean thermal efficiency can be enhanced to meet a project’s specified standards, up to and including 0.8 W/m²K or A++. With 82 houses being built to a demanding schedule, Gold Seal Windows needed to draw on all its experience of working on busy construction sites. Thanks to careful project management and effective communication, the Gold Seal Windows’ installation team was able to install all 900 units on time and on budget. Demand for affordable housing in and around Glasgow is growing. Homes in The Orchard provide a high-quality option for first time buyers, growing families and downsizers alike. John McNamee, Director of Gold Seal Windows, said: “As a local company, we know how important developments like this are for the local community. We were delighted to win the contract for this work and delighted to see the high-quality result.” Tel: 0808 101 4143 - www.profile22.co.uk READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0079
QUICKSLIDE COINED AS CALDERDALE BUSINESS OF THE YEAR 2019 For any business, winning an award and receiving recognition for your efforts is a humbling experience. When the awarding institute comprises of those right on your doorstep, representing fellow local corporates, the accolade is undoubtedly even more so. Celebrating a double win of precisely that nature is Yorkshire based manufacturer Quickslide. The Calderdale Excellence in Business Awards – held at The Arches, Halifax in November – brought together a cross section of companies in a lavish evening of home-grown acknowledgement. Contrary to assumptions that the home improvement sector is at the mercy of Brexit and Government uncertainty, Quickslide’s popularity within the industry was prominently recognised, with an announcement as ‘Overall Business of the Year 2019’. Having already secured the ‘Large Business of the Year’ award earlier in the evening, Quickslide triumphed for a second time
In the wake of the recent election result held on 12 December 2019, Boris Johnson, the conservative prime minister has promised to deliver Brexit and in his words, “get Brexit done” and has gained the trust of voters after he led the Conservatives to an historic general election win. Remaining in the EU is not foreseeable currently and so businesses should start making Brexit plans to ensure they are prepared. Although the exact manner of the UK’s exit from the EU is still unknown, whether that is with or without a deal. Either way, businesses will benefit from thinking ahead to the possible effects and implications of Brexit on their commercial contracts and should consider the insertion of Brexit clauses into their commercial contracts.
against leaders in IT, medical supplies, telemarketing and recruitment.
CONSIDER YOUR COMMERCIAL CONTRACTS
Quickslide’s Chairman Adrian Barraclough explained how much of the company’s success is indebted to highly proficient and professional relationships with their installer customers: “The awards are a magnificent achievement for the company and huge endorsement for our philosophy of valuing our staff, suppliers and customers equally. Our installers represent Quickslide on the ground, and it is crucial that they understand how their professionalism and work ethic contributes to the achievement overall.”
If you are a business owner, there are relevant concerns that you should have as a contracting party for both pre-existing contracts and contract arrangements that are upcoming. In order to safeguard your position, you should have regard of the following issues, particularly if:
Compere and local news presenter Harry Gration outlined the reasons given for Quickslide’s success as a constant endeavour for innovation, investment in people, contribution to the community and overall business performance. Adrian continued: “We strive for recognition at this level to in part, enable the businesses of our installers to thrive, and be the first choice for homeowners.” Looking to the future, Adrian confirmed Quickslide’s forthcoming plans for a £2 million investment in machinery, new factory extension and in-house systems which will see the business’s capacity significantly increase during the next few years. www.quickslide.co.uk READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0080
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BREXIT PLANNING: CONSIDER YOUR COMMERCIAL CONTRACTS
• The contract has a cross UK-EU border element to it for example for business-tobusiness supply of goods or services; • If contract term will end after the UK’s expected departure from the EU of 31
“Although Brexit could affect almost every aspect of doing business, its actual impact is still unknown and uncertain for businesses. For some contracts the most a Brexit clause may offer is a binding requirement that the parties will attempt to renegotiate relevant aspects of the contract and that business will continue as normal between the parties.”
January 2020 and as such that contract will be up for renegotiation; and • Do you have a commercial contract with a business in the EU which will be affected by Brexit? And need to have this reviewed. If any of the above applies, you should consider inserting a Brexit clause or contractual Brexit Addendum contract into your existing or future contracts as failing to do so could have serious implications.
WHAT WOULD A “BREXIT CLAUSE” ACHIEVE? A “Brexit clause” or a “Brexit Addendum” is a contractual clause or document that triggers some change in the parties’ rights and obligations as a result of a defined event occurring i.e. Brexit itself, this would state that for example Brexit would not act as a force majeure event and would not be able to end or frustrate a contract. The effect of such a clause or agreement is very similar to any other “if/then” or force majeure clause that may attempt to govern what will happen should the legal and business environment change in the future. Although Brexit could affect almost every aspect of doing business, its actual impact is still unknown and uncertain for businesses. For some contracts the most a Brexit clause may offer is a binding requirement that the parties will attempt to renegotiate relevant aspects of the contract and that business will continue as normal between the parties. For other contracts, where it may be possible to specify consequences of certain events, the risk remains that events may occur for which the parties have not made a provision. A Brexit clause is not a ‘silver bullet’ which will solve all Brexit-related issues and problems, but it at the very least provides parties with certainty that the other party will not hold it to onerous terms without the possibility of negotiation.
IS DOING NOTHING AN OPTION? The risk to your business of not drafting to address Brexit is that a party could be obliged to continue to perform its obligations in full, even if, as a result of Brexit-related events, doing so has become commercially unattractive or worse and the cost could be unaffordable. An affected party may be unable to renegotiate its contract and so may find itself in breach of contract and facing termination for default and an action for damages or litigation could commence. Karen Holden is an award-winning solicitor and founder of A City Law Firm. READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0081
February 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk
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FINANCE SPECIALISTS IMPROVEASY NAMED THE UK’S 23RD FASTEST GROWING BUSINESS
500% INCREASE IN WEBSITE ENQUIRIES FOR ROOFLINE SOLUTIONS THANKS TO PURPLEX
Improveasy, the UK’s leading home improvement finance principal has been named the 23rd fastest-growing privatelyowned company in the UK.
All the signs point towards a busy 2020 on all fronts with new installers taking advantage of our service and more business being won and fulfilled through finance.
The company saw 84 enquiries delivered in October compared to just 14 last year, while a huge 2,057 sessions were also completed, compared with 653 across the same month last year, meaning a very impressive increase of 215%.
“Despite our successful year, we’re not taking our foot off the gas. Instead, we’re launching a number of exciting new services and expanding our customer support throughout the year, all with the aim of helping our network accelerate their sales and maximise every opportunity in 2020.”
With more than 17 years of industry experience, Roofline Solutions have been supplying roofline and cladding replacements to homeowners and the trade across Surrey, Berkshire and Hampshire.
Alongside the roll out of new products and services, Improveasy will be continuing support for their popular 0% APR and ‘Buy Now Pay Later’ finance packages.
And having gone live in August, it has delivered some spectacular results.
That’s according to the annual Sunday Times Virgin Atlantic Fast Track 100 report, which ranks companies on their performance over the past three years. Manchester-based Improveasy secured their place following a remarkable three years of consistent year-on-year growth. In fact, Improveasy has grown by an astonishing 138% in the last year alone. Managing Director, Austin Barcley attributes their overwhelming performance to the success of their flexible finance packages, helping hundreds of installers nationwide answer the changing buying habits of today’s consumer. Austin comments: “I know I speak on behalf of the entire Improveasy team when I say we couldn’t be more proud to be listed in the 2019 Fast Track 100. This tremendous achievement is a real testament to the dedication of our team who work tirelessly to support our trade partners and get them ‘finance ready’. “With millions of pounds of finance being written every month by our network, it proves that point-of-sale finance has quickly gone from an optional extra to an absolute must-have for every installer.
All these services and much more are available for installers to offer at the point of sale. By partnering with Improveasy, installers not only avoid the stressful process of becoming FCA approved, but can be fully trained and up and running within just a matter of days. Finance applications are completed online with an instant credit decision and once the project is completed, funds are with the installer within a couple of days. For more information call Improveasy on 0800 024 8505 or visit www. offercustomersfinance.com. READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0084
South East home improvement company Roofline Solutions has seen a 500% increase year on year in enquiries thanks to a new website delivered by Purplex.
Having originally linked-up with leading full-service marketing agency Purplex to manage the digital marketing on their previous website, it soon became apparent that they needed a new, improved platform.
Ricky Moss, joint owner and Director of Roofline Solutions, said: “We noticed a large uplift in enquiries after the website went live which has continued over the ensuing months. We are delighted with the results and look forward to continuing working with Purplex in the future.” Adi Day, Purplex’s Digital Director, commented: “It’s great to see the new website has helped to significantly drive traffic to Roofline Solutions and increase enquires by such a huge margin. “The company is going from strength to strength and we look forward to supporting their future growth.” Purplex Marketing was founded in 2004 by Andrew Scott, who has acquired, built and sold several successful businesses in the industry, including manufacturers, distributors and retail businesses. Since its establishment, Purplex has grown by at least 34% every year and now boasts a large clientele of customers located throughout the UK and Europe. Tel: 01934 808132 www.purplexmarketing.com
GLAZERITE ROLLS OUT EMPLOYEE MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS PROGRAMME Leading trade fabricator, the Glazerite UK Group, has begun rolling out Mental Health Awareness sessions as part of a nationwide programme. The sessions will encompass all 270 Glazerite employees, based across each of its five sites, with the aim of increasing people’s awareness and understanding of mental health issues like anxiety and depression. David Beeney, the consultant and mental health counsellor leading the sessions, advises companies on how to reduce the stigma of mental health in the workplace. He says: “With mental health issues in the workplace costing UK employers £26 billion per year, it’s key that companies address how they can help their employees, and provide an open and stigma-free environment. “The Glazerite workshops have been designed to help managers better support their teams, and to encourage employees who might be suffering in silence to speak out and seek help. It’s fantastic that Glazerite wants to engage every employee in the process. Being more aware of their own mental health, and that of others around them, means they can reach out and help a colleague who might be struggling with their own wellbeing.” Matthew Thomas, Managing Director of Glazerite East, who has recently taken part in the three hour, interactive
workshop, says: “We’ve had lots of positive feedback from our staff so far on the workshops, and it was pertinent to see how some of my older male colleagues found the session so poignant, which I wasn’t necessarily expecting. I think mental health issues are something people feel they have to mask, particularly at work, so it’s really important Glazerite is looking to address the issue, not only with these sessions but with ongoing planned support, such as access to a confidential helpline.” Glazerite Chairman, John Hewitt, says the programme is being implemented with the aim of creating a culture across the business where people feel they can raise mental health issues and discuss them in a stigma-free environment. He adds: “These sessions are the first step towards achieving a more open culture and supportive environment at Glazerite in which our employees can thrive. It’s also important to us that we work together to raise general awareness of mental health issues, especially given they affect as many as one in four people in the UK at some point in their lives.” For more information on David Beeney’s workshop, visit www. breakingthesilence.co.uk. www.glazerite.co.uk READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0086
READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0085
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February 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk
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A DECADE OF GROWTH FOR
5 STAR Home improvement specialist, 5 Star Windows & Conservatories, is set to enter its 10th year as a member of the Conservatory Outlet Network, having seen a staggering 175% increase in turnover since making the bold decision to join.
The West-Midlands based business, first established in 2002, became part of Conservatory Outlet’s network of independent retailers back in 2011 and has seen turnover continue to grow at an impressive rate in the years that have followed.
“It’s fantastic to have dedicated support from a fabricator that truly understands our business and offers a personal service. They regularly introduce new and innovative products, allowing us to remain one step ahead of our competition.
“What we value most however is the network itself, which allows us to access and
“We’re thrilled to be entering our 10th year as members of the Conservatory Outlet Network with annual sales of £8m for the first time in our history!”
share best practice ideas with companies similar to ours from across the country. To this day, the network continues to help us improve all aspects of our business.” Michael Giscombe, Managing Director at Conservatory Outlet, continues: “5 Star have become a shining example of a forward-thinking retailer that thrives in a network environment. “A huge amount of credit has to go to Richard’s exceptional team for their tremendous growth. They are always first to get involved in peer-to-peer initiatives which, not only help to formulate their own ideas, but support the growth of our other network members. “Richard and his team are true entrepreneurs with a passion for marketing and are a huge asset to our network.”
Having navigated a particularly difficult political climate across the last decade, 5 Star have experienced rapid and continual growth over the past five years and recorded sales figures in excess of £8m nett for 2020, up from just under £3m nett in 2011. 5 Star, with luxury showrooms in Kidderminster and Worcester, was part of an early wave of businesses to join the Conservatory Outlet Network at the turn of the decade, which now boasts over 25 members situated across the UK. Richard Manser, Managing Director at 5 Star, explains: “We’re thrilled to be entering our 10th year as members of the Conservatory Outlet Network with annual sales of £8m for the first time in our history! This achievement is testament to the hard work and dedication of our fabulous team, all of whom we are incredibly proud. “The opening of our second luxury showroom in Worcester was a real watershed moment for us, boosting our sales figures by £3m since opening its doors in January 2017. The Conservatory Outlet team were instrumental in getting our new showroom up and running and were by our side throughout the entire process.
www.glassnews.co.uk | February 2020
READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0087
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TRADE NEWS
CONSERVATORY OUTLET LAUNCH PAPERLESS HR SYSTEM UK manufacturing experts, Conservatory Outlet Group, has continued efforts to reduce its carbon footprint by investing in a fully-automated, paperless HR system. The move to the new system, which comes on the back of record levels of growth for the business throughout 2019, see’s all of Conservatory Outlet’s HR functions centralised into a bespoke online platform, removing the need for excessive paperwork and filing. Now with more than 230 employees across seven sites, following the acquisition of a digital marketing agency this autumn, the automated system has allowed Conservatory Outlet to streamline a number of processes and reduce the need for additional admin support. With an ever-increasing workforce, the new system also provides staff members with a self-service function, allowing for increased visibility on things like; upcoming shifts, hours worked, holiday entitlement and personal details. The dual-purpose move to the new system allows Conservatory Outlet to continue their commitment to reducing carbon emissions, whilst improving several key business functions. Karen Starkey, Head of HR at Conservatory Outlet, said she was delighted to have the new system in place: “We’ve worked tirelessly in recent months to ensure the new system was installed without any issues. The move achieves a number of key business goals and, crucially, furthers our ambition of being one of the most environmentally conscious businesses in Yorkshire. “The benefits of the new system are virtually endless, decreasing our reliance on manual data handling and removing the likelihood of human error. We look forward to making continual improvements to our HR function over the next twelve months.”
Conservatory Outlet Head of HR, Karen Starkey, and HR Assistant, Emma Sant READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0088
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QUICKSLIDE PARTNERS WITH MORLEY GLASS TO ENHANCE PRODUCT OFFERING Leading window and door manufacturer Quickslide has made the decision to put the ethos of ‘home grown’ at the heart of a new investment this year, as they announce a new partnership with local blinds supplier Morley Glass. The move will be of major interest to customers, as the decreased distance and an enhanced product offering equals shorter lead times and an improved turnaround.
manual control products; the ‘C System’ which features a rotational cord and a cordless magnetic slider system, known as the ‘SV System’. Each of these are available in traditional, timeless colours including white, creams and greys, but for homeowners wanting to make more of a statement through their windows, the choice of bright primary colours provide a great alternative.”
“Our new relationship with Morley Glass began back in December to ensure that we were ready to hit the ground running with orders in January” explained Managing Director Ben Weber. “When it comes to integral blinds, our customers are increasingly requesting wider variation in both colour and operating systems. We have taken on two of Morley’s core
The slim control style of the Morley Glass devices makes them ideal for integrating blinds into any product across the comprehensive Quickslide range; a benefit Ben expects to attract new business over the coming months.
(L-R) Ian Short, Morley Glass MD, Sandra Berg, Quickslide Marketing Manager, Ian Nowacki, Morley Glass Sales Manager
Additionally, with less than ten miles between the two factory sites the move guarantees Quickslide a reduction in their carbon footprint – an aim which Ben intends to fulfil across the company’s entire supply chain:“Climate activism is so very poignant right now, and it is absolutely everyone’s responsibility to confront environmentally threatening issues. The proximity of Morley’s premises to us means that we can support the wider cause to be eco-friendly by having vehicles on the road for less time, and making more efficient journeys.”
NEW YORK STOCK EXCHANGE OPENING BELL The New York Stock Exchange welcomes Quanex Building Products Corporation (NYSE: NX) in celebration of the Company's 55th year of listing on the New York Stock Exchange, in addition to the recent appointments of its new executive management team. George Wilson, recently appointed President & CEO, joined by Chris Taylor, VP NYSE Listings and Services, rings The Opening Bell®. Photo Credit: NYSE
www.quickslide.co.uk READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0089
IG DOORS CELEBRATES 20 YEARS WITH SPECTUS IG Doors in Blackwood, South Wales, is one of the market leaders in the new build and social housing refurbishment sectors. It has also been a Spectus fabricator since 1999 and has just signed a new three-year supply agreement with the systems house.
IG Doors buys the Elite 70 bevelled door outerframe from Spectus. It uses the outerframe with its GRP composite doors, which is a key product line for the company, not least because it was one of the first companies to bring composite doors to the UK market.
Rhys Davies of IG Doors said: “We choose our supply partners very carefully – our reputation depends on getting it right. We continue to work with Spectus because the product quality and service is superb and they continue to proactively support our business needs.”
IG Doors has been established for over 35 years and today manufactures around 3000 doors a week. It has the resources, flexibility and organisational structure to cope with the requirements of major national house builders and developers, local authorities and social housing landlords.
As well as praising the quality of the product and service, Rhys also highlights the quality of the technical support the company receives. He said: “For two decades we have worked closely with the Spectus technical team and this proactive support has been invaluable to us.”
These capabilities are backed up by a team of experienced technical engineers who ensure the specifications meet customer requirements. This is complemented by a highly experienced, nationwide sales team that is able to advise on every aspect of specification and provide site support when required, whether it’s a new build or refurbishment. IG Doors’ success is based on a partnership approach to working with its customers. The company seeks the same commitment to excellence from its supply partners. And because it’s just signed a three-year supply agreement to take its partnership with Spectus to 23 years, it’s clear that Spectus is delivering above and beyond for the company.
From Left to Right: Mark Hayward (IG), Rhys Davies (IG), Hayley King (Epwin Window Systems), Martin Althorpe (Epwin Window Systems)
Tel: 0808 101 4143 - www.spectus.co.uk READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0090
READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0091
February 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk
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PIONEERING CHANGE WITH LINIAR Industry leader Liniar has a strong focus on doing the right thing. Its recent stance on the use of reinforcement in PVCu window systems demonstrates a clear corporate conscience, along with a desire to challenge and change negative perceptions and industry standards. The pioneering systems company has commenced 2020 with the launch of a new brochure, ‘Making the Change’. It recognises that profile supply is one of the major decisions facing window fabricators and installers, and the brochure aims to stimulate the thought process behind choosing a supplier to partner with.
AN INFORMED DECISION Whether starting a company from scratch or seeking to move away from an existing provider, choosing PVCu profile is a big decision, and one that could impact the profitability of your company for years to come. Liniar’s latest brochure is intended to be a helpful guide to stimulate the thought process and highlight specific areas
to investigate when talking to profile suppliers - explaining why the answers are critical to the future of your business and helping you to make an informed decision.
BREAKING THE MOULD Liniar's 'Making the Change' brochure outlines over three dozen areas to consider - from the product range itself to service delivery excellence; also covering marketing and technical support to sustainability, accreditations and investment levels. Group Marketing Director Sue Davenport discusses the thought process that went into writing 'Making the Change' - and why a brochure like it was long overdue.
LISTENING TO CUSTOMERS “One of the first rules of marketing is to listen to your customers – and that begins at the stage you first start speaking to them, before they’ve bought a single item,” explains Sue. “I’ve had the pleasure of meeting a wide range of fabricators over the last few years, and every time they tell me why they chose Liniar, I learned something new. Everyone has different motivations and criteria for selecting a new supplier, and we thought putting all of these reasons together in one handy book would be helpful to others going down the same route.
NOT JUST ABOUT PRICE “Beginning the process of choosing a new or additional systems company means asking yourself questions about what you want for your business. We often find that price is the first consideration, but even this goes much deeper. “In our experience, price is one of the last things to be discussed; in fact, many of our customers can testify that it actually didn’t form a large part of the decision making process. It’s about understanding what customers want and need, and making sure it can be delivered. Price is simply a part of that.”
WHAT CUSTOMERS THINK Sue continues: “Initial feedback from fabricators who’ve seen the ‘Making the Change’ brochure has been phenomenal; they feel the guide really does help them to pick out the few things are really important to them, and ask the right questions of the people they’re speaking to. “We’d urge fabricators to use ‘Making the Change’ as a checklist – no matter what systems companies they’re considering. Crucially, even if they don’t choose Liniar as their systems company, we feel that we’ve helped them along their journey – and that also feels like a positive change in the industry.” To get your hands on a copy of Liniar's Making the Change brochure, email marketing@liniar.co.uk.
READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0092
www.glassnews.co.uk | February 2020
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YOUR WINDOW TO A BETTER WORLD – KÖMMERLING AT FENSTERBAU 2020 Yet again profine Group and it’s KÖMMERLING brand will be the largest exhibitor at Fensterbau Frontale, which will be held in Nuremberg, Germany from March 18th-21st, 2020. Thousands of visitors from all over the world are expected at the profine stand, which is presented under the motto of ‘Your Window to a Better World.’ Dr. Peter Mrosik, owner and CEO of profine Group said: “The motto sums up our CSR activities and our brand essence. In a world facing major challenges, we take responsibility together with our partners and contribute to solutions. We are pioneers in various sustainability issues, are involved in numerous social projects internationally, help people, and our windows make a significant contribution to achieving climate protection goals and reducing CO2 emissions.’ Your Window to a Better World is also an expression of the profine Group for numerous innovations that will be presented at Fensterbau Frontale 2020. KÖMMERLING Unity is the first solution in which the materials PVC-U and aluminum have been designed together and synergistically as a hybrid system. KÖMMERLING Unity is the result of the two system houses profine and Stemeseder which bring in their special core competencies. This technology is based on the System 76 centre seal for the tilt and turn variants and the PremiDoor 76 for the lift/sliding doors. The show will also feature proStratoTec, a revolutionary technology involving the adoption of the high-tech material Ultradur® from BASF, which is
20 IN 20: GLAZERITE CELEBRATES TWO DECADES IN BUSINESS The Glazerite UK Group is celebrating its 20th birthday this year, marking two decades as a leading trade fabricator. Group Managing Director, Jason Thompson, and, Chairman, John Hewitt, who founded the company in 2000, are still at the helm of the Wellingborough, Northants-based business, which has seen rapid growth in size, customer base and its product portfolio. integrated into the profile structure through a tri-extrusion process, thereby removing the need for steel reinforcement. Sliding systems are also featured and visitors can experience the large platform family of KÖMMERLING systems up close. The focus is on the new PremiLine 58, the very successful PremiDoor 76, the universal PremiSlide 76 and the innovative PremiFold 76 turn/sliding system. Gareth Jones, managing director of profine UK and the KÖMMERLING brand concluded: ‘Fensterbau is very much a showcase for us in terms of resources, cutting-edge R&D, along with the launch of our new CSR campaign, Your Window to a Better World. It’s an opportunity for our UK partners and customers to enjoy our hospitality and to immerse themselves within the profine Group as an international PVCu systems giant.’ For further information please visit www.kommerling.co.uk, e-mail enquiries@profine-group.com or call 01543 444900. You can also follow them on Twitter @Kommerling_uk. For further information on Fensterbau including travel information visit www.frontale.de/en. READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0093
Built and still run on a desire to deliver a combination of high-quality products, exceptional customer service, and manufacturing expertise, 2020 might be a milestone, but it will also be very much ‘business as usual’ for the company. John says: “It’s been our aim from the beginning to be a ‘best-in-class’ supplier and we will continue to strive to deliver that vision for our installer partners. We’ve recently invested in our manufacturing units to increase our size and capability, as well as installed a number of new machines to improve speed and efficiency. We’ve also grown our fleet to ensure a more robust delivery network for customers. “To deliver the best in customer service we recognise the importance of our people, and have a number of training opportunities available to enhance our skillset, as well as a reward and recognition programme in place.” Group MD Jason adds: “Our success not only depends on our people and that of our installer partners, but the suppliers we work with. We’re extremely fortunate to have partnered with industry leaders like the VEKA UK Group from the beginning, and still fabricate high quality products from them to this day. Since 2000 we’ve also added a number of other leading brands to our portfolio, giving us the opportunity to meet the needs of our customers and their own customers in terms of products, styles,
colour, security, energy efficiency, and even smart technology.” Originally run from a 1000 sq. ft. factory in Wellingborough, Glazerite has since moved into bigger premises in the town and opened its Specials Division, which focuses on fabricating the likes of R7 and R9. Further sites have opened – and since expanded - in Bolton and Peterborough, as well as a trade counter and sales office near Bristol, ensuring nationwide coverage for the fabricator and its customers. Jason adds: “When we started the business back in 2000, we were producing one product, the VEKA Matrix 58mm, with a target of 40 frames a week. I would never have believed then that within 20 years we’d have grown to such a big entity, with the capability of manufacturing 4000 frames on a weekly basis.” John agrees. He says: “We’re proud to have grown Glazerite into a sustainable business with a great future. We’re also privileged that suppliers like VEKA and a number of the customers who started our journey with us are still with us to this day.” Glazerite plans to kickstart the year with a celebration for employees, an event that Jason hopes will be an opportunity to celebrate past successes, and mark the start of another 20 years in business. “We’re thrilled to have been part of the Glazerite journey so far, and we’re aiming to continue building and strengthening the business for our installer partners, employees and suppliers in 2020 and beyond.” www.glazerite.co.uk READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0094
FIT SHOW REVERTS TO BIENNIAL FREQUENCY ORGANISERS CONFIRM NEXT EVENT WILL BE MAY 2021 Organisers of FIT Show have announced the decision to revert the show to a biennial format, with the next event confirmed to take place on Tuesday 25th to Thursday 27th May 2021 at the NEC Birmingham. There will therefore be no FIT Show in 2020. The announcement follows continuing unprecedented political and economic uncertainty, which, whilst recently becoming more positive, has driven the decision to take FIT Show back to its most successful format. “The conditions that prompted the announcement of a FIT Show in 2020 have all changed, even since we made the announcement at the 2019 event”,
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commented FIT Show Event Director, Nickie West. “We have listened to the many active voices in the FIT Show community and will return the event to its most popular frequency, and everything that has made it a success. It is with huge disappointment, and with a genuine desire to preserve the longterm success of FIT Show for the entire industry, that we have made this decision.” The organisers report that support for 2021 has been, and continues to be, very positive. “Where companies have been unable to commit to 2020, they have confirmed they will be a part of 2021. We can now pursue that enthusiasm and focus on delivering a fantastic FIT Show next year.” Added Nickie.
Co-founder and FIT Show Director, Paul Godwin commented: “I believe the announcement to concentrate on 2021 is the right decision. The whole team is now focussed on ensuring FIT Show returns to its roots.” Matthew Glover, who launched the show with Paul in 2013 added: “The FIT Show changed how the glass and glazing industry does business. Trading conditions have been difficult and, whilst the 2020 event was announced in good faith, it has not proved possible to deliver an event of the stature the industry deserves and we will get back to the format the industry believes is the best for them.”
“We are working closely with all of our partners to ensure that the move over to the 2021 timeline is as seamless as possible. I’d like to thank everyone for their continued support.” FIT Show is the UK’s number one, awardwinning showcase for the glass, glazing, window, door, hardware and components industry. FIT Show will return to the NEC 25 - 27 May 2021, occupying halls 2 & 3. READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0095
February 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk
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EVERGLADE ANSWERS BBC’S DIY SOS CALL Everglade UK, a VEKA UK fabricator and installer based in Manchester is proud to have contributed to DIY SOS ‘The Big Build’ which transformed the Bolton home of Heather and Martin Taylor-Mann and their children. The episode, which aired on BBC One at the end of November saw 150 volunteers extend and reconfigure the house to make it better suited to the family, and – in particular – their nine-year-old son William who is severely autistic and has a high sensitivity to noise.
bedrooms and as the youngest daughter got bigger and William’s condition meant that he tended to keep everyone awake, they were becoming overwhelmed by their circumstances. “Martin had begun to build a third bedroom, but as often happens, work commitments and financial constraints meant the project got waylaid. “DIY SOS came in to help, with plans to build a timber-framed, soundproofed extension for William where he could have his own specially designed quiet bedroom space, and in turn, his two sisters could each have their own room upstairs without William keeping them awake at night.
Unable to talk, William communicates his distress through crying. He finds sleeping extremely difficult and is often awake through the night, which also disturbs his sisters.
“Originally, Everglade was asked to provide just two windows for the extension. But when we saw the extent of the plans for the rest of the house renovation, and we heard how William can’t be left upstairs - even momentarily - because he tries to climb out of the windows, we volunteered to fabricate and install eight VEKA FS casement windows completely free of charge.
Everglade Co-Owner Deni Sirovica explains: “It was fantastic to be involved in a project that will bring such enormous improvements to their daily life. The TaylorMann family (of five) were sharing two
“The windows we provided were all ‘A’ rated, which means they’ll keep the house nice and warm, and thanks to the quality of these VEKA systems, they’ll also keep outdoor noise down. We fitted them all
with child-lock restrictors to provide peace of mind that William wouldn’t be at risk of opening them wide enough to climb out. “We also used VEKA profile to create the front porch, which brightened up the front of the house and created a welcoming entranceway. “The job was particularly tricky because the whole project was completed in just nine days, so all the tradespeople were trying to work round each other at the same time in a very small space, but it all went well and the family were delighted - which is what it’s all about!” The 150-strong team of volunteers completely renovated the downstairs kitchen and living room, as well as adding a dining room, a utility room and a downstairs bathroom next to William’s new bedroom extension (with specialist automatic taps that prevent him being able to cause the kind of floods he has in the past). They also completely reconfigured the upstairs by removing all the walls and redistributing the space to create three bedrooms and a decent-sized family bathroom, as well as tidying up the garden and laying a new driveway. Not bad for nine days’ work!
As the programme ended, Heather TaylorMann said: “It’s just perfect. We’re just so grateful.” Martin added that the transformation will allow the family to focus all their energy on the three children: “We don’t have to worry about the house now, it’s perfect for us. We can just throw everything into them.” When asked if the work was enough to minimise the possibility that William might have to go into care, Heather said: “It’s given us hope for the future, and it’s meant that William can just stay here as long as we can look after him. "And that’s so important… we want to enjoy every minute...we need to say a big, big thank you. It’s more than we ever could have dreamed of.” Tel: 01282 716611 www.vekauk.com READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0096
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TRADE NEWS VBH RELIABILITY HELPS NOVA ALUMINIUM WIN BUSINESS Bristol based aluminium glazing specialist Nova Aluminium Systems Ltd celebrates 15 years of business in 2020. The company operates out of a 40,000 sq. production facility in St. Jude’s and delivers to customers across England and Wales using its own fleet of distinctively liveried vehicles. Nova prides itself on being strictly a trade supplier, serving large and small installers with contracts ranging from £2000 £200,000 in value. Nova manufactures aluminium windows, doors, curtain walling and shopfronts in all RAL colours, with the bi-folding door being one of their biggest sellers. They elected to use greenteQ Clearspan bi-fold hardware on this enduringly popular product. Nova Production Manager Jason Ford says “Aluminium is the go-to material for bi-folds due to the colour options, strength and slim sight-lines. The greenteQ bi-fold solution includes everything we need from the running gear, to handles, profile cylinders and locks, right down to magnetic catches. We can either order from VBH per kit, or in bulk alongside all the other window and residential door hardware that we source from them.” greenteQ Clearspan is now the hardware system of choice for many bi-fold door manufacturers. One of the reasons that so many use the system is that it is covered by VBH’s Q-secure hardware guarantee, giving end users a free 10 year security guarantee. Jason concludes, “We’re picking up new business all the time from PVCu fabricators who don’t want to miss out on the aluminium boom, and also from fellow aluminium guys who are over capacity. We can always find room in the production schedules but we need a quick turnaround on our hardware orders to enable us to be so flexible. Phil Thomas and the team at VBH Swansea can always be relied upon to get our ironmongery to us when we need it.” For more information on Nova’s product range, and also a crash course in Bristolian dialect, please visit nova-aluminium.com or call 0117 955 6463. Visit vbhgb.com, follow @vbhgb and @vbhgreenteQ or call 01634 263 300 for more information on VBH’s hardware range and to find out how they can make ordering your hardware easier.
The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper
MORE INVESTMENT AND A DOUBLE SHIFT PATTERN AT VIRTUOSO DOORS Virtuoso Doors has invested in new machinery and rolled out a double shift pattern at its 80,000-square foot site in the North East. The move will enable Virtuoso to ramp up production and further improve on its levels of service and product quality as it enters a phase of rapid growth. The second shift was introduced to help Virtuoso Doors satisfy a surge of sales orders for its market-leading range of composite doors and door panels and the firm plans to expand the shift and recruit more staff as it prepares for another period of high-volume output later in the year. Virtuoso has also invested in an additional SCM CNC router and SCM beam saw to provide extra capacity and ensure that the firm meets demand, whilst maintaining consistently high product quality and short lead times. Following an investment of £1 million over the last three years, the Birtley-based factory is now equipped with
state-of-the-art CNC routers, beam saws and edgebanders. Tony Craggs, Virtuoso Doors’ managing director, says: “When it comes to service, quality and performance, our mission is to be the best in the industry. Last year, we achieved growth of more than 35% and we have ambitious plans for the next 12 months ahead. Our strategy is all about building on that impressive growth, whilst also focusing on quality and system improvements and customer supply performance. “We will expand our double shift over the coming months and we’ll continue to invest in high quality modern machinery so that our customers can expect the finest quality products and service – all delivered within a dependable timeframe.” As part of its ongoing development and to underline a firm commitment to constantly invest in quality, service and efficiency, Virtuoso Doors has recently strengthened
its senior management team with the appointment of three new managers who will enhance all quality and production processes throughout the business. Virtuoso Doors is part of Customade Group, which operates nationwide and employs 1100 people in multiple manufacturing sites across the UK. The group also includes REAL Aluminium (aluminium), (Polyframe (PVC-u), Atlas Glazed Roof Solutions (glazed roofs), Hourglass Seal (sealed glass units), Stevenswood Trade Centre (trade counters) and Fineline Aluminium (specialist glazing). Tel: 01453 826884 www.virtuoso-doors.co.uk READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0099
STAND OUT FEATURES FROM STELLAR Stellar from Epwin Window Systems has been capturing headlines since the aluminium window and door system was launched last year. The double G19 award-winning system was designed to push the boundaries of aluminium window and door design and offers numerous industry-firsts that mean it is faster to fabricate and simpler to install than rival systems.
One of Stellar’s stand out features is the unique patent-pending reverse butt joint which allows products to be fabricated without dummy sashes or reverse adaptors. Gerald Allen, Marketing Manager at Epwin Window Systems explains: “Most aluminium systems use dummy sashes, couplers or reverse adaptors to ensure the windows can be internally glazed. This can detract from the overall appearance of the window and uses more resources to achieve. The patent-pending reverse butt joint from Stellar overcomes this problem and ensures the slim lines are preserved and uses less materials. Furthermore, our intelligently-
designed internal cleats ensure a clean joint is achieved offering superb aesthetics too.” Stellar was designed by a team of talented industry experts with an impressive track record in the aluminium sector. The brief was to develop an aluminium window and door system that harnessed the developments witnessed in the PVC-U sector and give the retail and light commercial markets exactly what they needed and had been asking for. Years of experience and extensive market research were combined with an open mind and high ideals to deliver the ground-breaking window and door system. Stellar consists of two open-out flush casement window options and a flush residential door. The system will soon be joined by a lift and slide patio door and a bifold door that offers the lightweight strength of aluminium combined with the option of PVC-U beading that means it sits more comfortably in UK homes. All products come with the option of crimped or mechanically jointed finishes offering strong design flexibility. Gerald concludes: This combination of market-leading factors, together with a wealth of market-first advantages are the reasons Stellar has experienced its first flush of success and is fast becoming the go-to aluminium system.” Tel: 0845 300 9356 www.stellaraluminiun.co.uk
READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0098
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READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0100
February 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk
TRADE NEWS
COLD CALLING
VICTORIAN SLIDERS IN THE RUNNING FOR PRESTIGIOUS BUSINESS AWARD
DANNY WILLIAMS
‘COLD CALLING’
Europe’s biggest sash window manufacturer is celebrating a finalist spot in the prestigious West Wales Business Awards. Victorian Sliders, which has invested over £10m in the last five years, has been shortlisted in the sought-after Manufacturing category. The Ammanford-based firm now has the capacity to make a sash window every 40 seconds at its state-of-the-art 240,000 square foot factory. It also extrudes its own profile, makes its own sealed units and manufacturers its own hardware. It’s the company’s innovation, independence and relentless growth that caught the eye of West Wales Business Award judges, who every year seek to find and reward the best entrepreneurs and organisations the region has to offer. Sponsored by JCP Solicitors, LTC Mobility, Nuwave, Morgan le Roche and others, the Awards will culminate in a glamorous black-tie event on January 24th, where winners will be announced. “This is a fantastic way for us to start a new year, and a new decade,” comments Victorian Sliders Group Managing Director Andy Jones. “We’re a proud Welsh manufacturer, and one of the region’s biggest employers. “In 2020, our 15th year in business, we’ll be continuing to grow our share of the Vertical Sliding window market. We currently deal with more than 3,000 installers and manufacture 2,000 frames per week!” This latest recognition comes after Victorian Sliders were voted winners in the Vertical Sliding Window Company category at the National Fenestration Awards last year. In December, the company experienced its most productive week ever, manufacturing 2,347 frames. For more information visit www. victoriansliders.co.uk or call 01269 846200.
Each month our special correspondent Danny Williams* replies to a reader’s letter... “I have been reading a few things lately about reinforcement for PVC-U profiles, and how the systems suppliers won’t stand by warranties if the windows don’t include reinforcement supplied by them. I have bought frames from my fabricator for around 5 years now and they’re very good but they are being a bit cagey about reinforcements, saying I’ve nothing to worry about, that they will give me all the guarantees that I need. Where do I stand?” HD, Northants News travels fast HD; it appears that this issue has woken the collective awareness of the nation’s installers as quite a few of our customers have also been asking the same questions as you. However, I have left my customers in no doubt whatsoever where they stand with me. The truth is that as far as installers that work purely in the private retail sector, nothing has changed from how things have always been. You didn’t mention who your supplier is but if you have been happy with them for several years now, that any issues you may have had have been dealt with quickly and effectively, then there is no reason why that would change. Irrespective of whether they are using reinforcement from the sysco, or steel and aluminium sections from an independent supplier. The systems suppliers that have gone on record as saying that the use of ‘unofficial’ reinforcement, irrespective of its provenance and quality, are correct when they say it will invalidate their warranties. However, my belief is that is largely irrelevant in as much as the likelihood of any warranty claims are extremely unlikely ever to reach the systems company, your fabricator acting each and every time to resolve what I hope are very few issues directly with you, before they become a continuing problem. The process of manufacturing frames begins with the deliveries of profiles from the syscos. Our people do their best to examine bar lengths as they come off the trucks on stillages. However, short of unloading each bar length and giving it a forensic examination, any profile quality issues, for example tolerance or finish; or damage during transit, are inevitably found when we
READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0101
www.glassnews.co.uk | February 2020
begin processing sections for manufacturing into frames. This is the point at which every profile receives intensive, close scrutiny and when 99% of any problems with the profile are discovered. Discovery of a problem with the profile will then trigger closer scrutiny of the batch, all of the bar lengths received on that delivery. Any and all sub-standard product will then be reported to the systems supplier, and the issue will be sorted at that stage, way before anything becomes a window or doorframe. And therefore, before any reinforcement is ever added. Once a window is delivered to an installer, you know the process: on, hopefully, very rare occasions there may be damage to the profile or glass or hardware noticed when the frame is received; or there may be an issue with the fit of the frame during installation. At this point, a call will be made to the fabricator who, if they are worth their salt, will jump about to work with the installer to deal with the issue, irrespective of what the problem might be. Only after the problem has been dealt with to leave a happy householder with a nice warm glow, might we have a post mortem to establish the problem. At this point it is usually related to mismeasure/bad install/manufacturing but seldom at this stage, is it ever deigned to be a problem with the profile. If it is however, and we throw the problem back at the sysco, their commitment is to the cost of the profile and seldom, if ever, will they agree to consequential loss. In other words, warranty claims are simply not worth the trouble of pursuing with the system supplier. The upshot of all this is that for you HD, it doesn’t matter one iota if your fabricator
uses non system reinforcement, as long as it is to the correct specification (ie it fits) because any failures will simply not reach the systems supplier. We, the fabricators, provide any meaningful, workable guarantees that you might ever need. I will add one marker to this: even though there is no way they will ever check, I do recommend that you insist upon systems supplied reinforcement for any commercial specification work and with writing to that effect. Because if a commercial customer believes, after receiving a commitment to specification, that the product is simply not compliant, then you will have a problem, however unlikely that might be. So, why would any of us use non-sysco steel and ali sections? It simply comes down to money HD, that in order to give you the installer the very best prices whilst still expecting deliveries to be spot on, product quality to be faultless and service generally to be better than ever, we have to sharpen our collective pencils in order to give you all of that and more. And when it comes to something that simply does not make a ha’pth of difference to you in the real world, we will do it. The fact is that the non-official reinforcement sellers seem to be thriving and I believe that you will be hard pressed to find a fabricator anywhere in Britain that does not use steels from them. So where do you stand? Just as you have done in the years that you have been using your present fabricator HD. If the hullabaloo about all this hadn’t appeared you wouldn’t have known. Ever. And in a few weeks time it will have been forgotten.
* Danny Williams is managing director of Chelmsford based Pioneer Trading and has been involved with all aspects of the windows and doors industry for 30 years. His activities include manufacturing a full range of windows and doors in PVC-U and aluminium, an IGU facility, retailing and commercial contracting.
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MACHINERY & INVESTMENT
VICTORIAN SLIDERS SUPERCHARGES GLASS LINE WITH £250,000 LISEC INVESTMENT Victorian Sliders, Europe’s biggest sash window manufacturer, has invested over half a million pounds in sealed unit production. With the acquisition of a £250,000 Lisec fully-automated sealed unit line, the company has significantly expanded its glass capacity – just in time for the busiest and most ambitious year in its history. It’s just the latest purchase in a series of investments designed to lay the foundations for extensive growth in 2020 and beyond, as Group Managing Director Andy Jones explains. “A lot of people don’t realise that Victorian Sliders isn’t really a fabricator – it’s a manufacturer. “Fabricators put together components they’ve bought from elsewhere. At Victorian Sliders, we do it all ourselves – the extruding, the sealed units, the foiling, the painting, the vacuum forming, the recycling, and more. “With the Lisec machine, we’re now able to produce more sealed units, more efficiently – something that will prove vital as we seek to ramp up our volumes in the year ahead.” Victorian Sliders have invested more than £10m in the last five years, acquiring an extensive range of state-of-the-art cutting, welding, cleaning and extrusion equipment. But that’s just the start of the company’s ambitions. “Next year, we’ll be investing a further £1.8m, taking our recycling operation to the next level, and unveiling a number of exciting new additions to our product range. “It’s that commitment to constant improvement that’s made Victorian Sliders the biggest and best sash window manufacturer in our industry.” For more information visit www. victoriansliders.co.uk or call 01269 846200.
ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL YEAR NO DOWNSIDES FOR SELECTAGLAZE AND FOR THE HEGLA GROUP KOMBIMATEC
The HEGLA group has seen many developments launched throughout 2019 with a drive to improve customer efficiency being the main focus.
Demand for products in the HEGLA range has continued to grow this year particularly across the UK, with industry accreditation and satisfied customers substantiating the claims of engineering excellence that the company provides. As the industry moves into 2020 there will be further changes introduced alongside new innovations that will support HEGLA customers moving forward. Constantly evaluating market direction keeps HEGLA customers at the forefront of the sector, with new innovations introduced to give them a leading edge. Next year will be no different as the company gears up for further growth. With the addition of Tai Fin to the HEGLA portfolio this will complement the existing range and create greater potential for customers with machines, systems and furnaces that can achieve the highest precision and quality in glass production. For example, the CTF furnaces provide precise heating control for different glass sizes and thickness. Consequently, a maximum even temperature distribution is gained with minimal operator intervention. This is just one aspect of HEGLA’s contribution to improve business performance across the sector. There is a commitment through training, service and support, which is all geared to help customers survive in a changeable market. Through modern software solutions from HEGLAHANIC customers can simplify production control, while laser-assisted glass finishing and marking from HEGLA boraident GmbH & Co. provide excellent technical advantages. The company recognises that strength lies in a strong team and one of the signature developments is consistent employee evaluation and training support.
READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0102
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The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper
Bernhard Hoetger, COO, HEGLA group comments,
“New business developments in automation have been very successful throughout 2019 for HEGLA. The company is unified as an organisation and ready for new strategies with greater scope for 2020. We place customer needs as paramount and helping them to gain greater potential by streamlining production methods will provide them with greater quality and more success all round.” Looking further ahead, the HEGLA team recognises that customers need to invest in future production methods and technology. Analysing emerging trends and creating discussion with customers enables the company to develop successful systems for an evolving market. Steve Goble, Managing Director HEGLA UK Ltd, comments, “Customers are actively adapting their business models to gain advantages. With the new Tai Fin brand of furnaces now available from HEGLA, the company is well positioned to support customers with greater options. As 2020 begins our main goal will be to give our customers clear advantages with tailored solutions that will improve their business potential.” HEGLA provides a resource for customers to expand their own capabilities that will support for their own target markets. For more information on the complete HEGLA range please call 01908 291 633. Everyone at HEGLA would like to wish customers a very prosperous New Year. READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0103
Faster, more versatile, more accurate, less waste – there really were no downsides when secondary glazing specialist Selectaglaze chose two new Kombimatec DGS530 CNC double mitre saws to streamline its production to stay ahead of demand. “It’s a crucial part in our entire production process so we put a lot of thought into making the choice,” said Selectaglaze Managing Director, Keith Mercer, “And I’m happy to say that as a result, everything about the machines has proved to be a positive. “Secondary glazing is more popular than ever as more people realise the low visual impact and increased thermal efficiency it can offer so we need to stay ahead of demand and the Kombimatec saws have helped us to boost our capacity as well as being more reliable and flexible.” The DGS530 comes complete with 530mm TCT saw blades, a speedier automatic positioning system and motorised heads. It automatically cuts whole six metre lengths to the pre-set size with its auto feed trim cutting facility in as little as 15 minutes where it would have previously taken an hour. Both machines have been fitted with automatic digital calipers which measure the height of the extrusion and then automatically adjust the blade for the height of each extrusion bringing greater efficiency as well as reducing the potential for processing error – especially useful when Selectaglaze works with a list of over 100 profiles. Each also has been given a cleat
cutting facility so that cleat widths can be auto-indexed into the saw. The DG530s have also brought sustainability benefits with significant reductions in profile wastage because of their improved accuracy and the optimisation of cutting combinations. Kombimatec MD David Parsons says Selectaglaze is one of many forward thinking companies to have discovered what the DGS530 can do for their business. “It is one of the most advanced machines of its kind and by far the most versatile,” he said. “We spent a great deal of time with the company, carefully assessing everything they needed and we were very happy, though not really surprised, that the DGS530 was by far the best choice on the market.” Founded in 1984 Kombimatec has delivered more than 20,000 machines worldwide for frame production using both PVC-U and aluminium profiles. With a design and manufacturing base in the UK, Kombimatec machines have an excellent reputation for being easy to use and simple to maintain. The company’s CAD-equipped experts assist with factory planning using technical expertise built over more than 35 years serving the UK frame manufacturing industry. For further information call Kombimatec direct 01582562218 or visit their website at www.kombimatec.com. READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0104
February 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk
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Emmegi (UK) Limited Unit 14, Spitfire Close, Coventry Business Park CV5 6UR Coventry Tel. +44 2476 676 192 - Fax +44 2476 677 381 www.emmegi.com - info.uk@emmegi.com
MACHINING WITHOUT COUNTERBLOCKS
MACHINERY & INVESTMENT
The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper
TWENTY YEARS OF AUTOMATIC SAWING & MACHINING AT STUGA In 1999 Steve Haines linked up with Tom and Gareth Green of Stuga, the British Engineering company manufacturing automatic routers and saws but that had also created a unique prepping center featuring a rotary tooling system that would prove to be perfect for the diverse window systems fabricated in the UK. Steve approached Stuga to discuss the subject of automated sawing & machining centers. Having experienced this type of automation there was no competitive product that could make it main stream for uPVC window and door fabricators. The only machines available were German, expensive and adapted for UK window systems.
The Stuga team assured Steve that they could build an automated line utilising their established technology. He sounded out the market and got a strong interest from fabricators so after looking for a customer for the prototype a conversation took place with Trevor Collier, the owner of Astraframe, a successful window fabricator in Norwich. Following discussions and negotiations a deal was agreed for Astraframe to purchase what was to be a brand new machine which became known as The Flowline. In fact this would be build F001 and was to be finished for an open-house at Stuga during two weeks in December 1999. During these two weeks at Stuga the Flowline was demonstrated to eight uPVC fabricators and five of them actually placed orders for what became F002, F003, F004, F005 and F006. F001 was installed at Astraframe during February 2000 and all six machines were delivered by November 2000. In the meantime more orders came in creating a winning product which went on to reach build number F076 before being replaced by the ZX3 during 2006. The phenomenal success of the Stuga Flowline was in the face of the German competition who criticized the machine,
its design and build saying it would never have any longevity. As we go into 2020 all 76 Flowlines are fully operational throughout the length and breadth of the UK and Ireland. During 2005 Stuga launched the ZX4 and the ZX3 followed in 2006. The ZX4 was only discontinued after the extremely exciting launch of the ZX5 during 2017 after a total of forty three ZX4’s were installed all of which remain in high output situations throughout the UK and Ireland. In 2006 the Microline was launched followed by the AutoFlow in 2010. Stuga also refurbish the older models to a high standard and these have again been sold to all areas of the UK and Ireland with actual numbers of machines rebuilt being well into the thirties. The quality of the refurbishment is so good that Stuga provides a full 12 months parts and labour warranty. Stuga currently sell the AutoFlow, ZX3 and ZX5 as new build machines with the flagship ZX5 being the top seller. The ZX5 has a new design of gripper called ‘tru-loc’ which makes the machine very accurate and allows the full power of the drive systems to be utilised. Gripping on this model is
Steve Haines
utilised on both the machining and sawing modules very precisely in exactly the same position on each module. ‘Y’ notching is achieved entirely on the saw module with the new ‘Y-Drive’ control system and the ‘double-plunge’ machining units have been doubled up to create ‘quad-plunge’. Other enhancements include cutter breakage detection and profile width measuring. Eleven ZX5’s have been installed so far and production is full until almost the end of 2020. Stuga is a machinery manufacturer rather than a dealer so the machines are always supported long into the future and we are proud to say that every automatic machine mentioned here is fully operational and supported right back to that first machine in 1999. Almost 200 new automatic sawing and machining centers have been built to date with rebuilds taking the number to two hundred and thirty. The ZX5 order book is already full until autumn 2020. Steve Haines Sales Director at Stuga Machinery Limited READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0106
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February 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk
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01493 742348 Ask for machine sales or visit www.stuga.co.uk
MACHINERY & INVESTMENT
The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper
THE HEALTHCARE OF PRODUCTION ASSETS Decisions about acquiring production assets are often made after lengthy consideration. Buyers look at whether the proposed equipment will deliver the desired output rates and standards of precision, and whether it will complement the operation’s existing infrastructure – all critical factors. With quality and production efficiency key drivers, it’s easy to see how the less exciting notions of machine lifespan and reliability can become secondary considerations. They shouldn’t be. They should be right up there in the decision-making process.
If we leave the shop-floor and head over to the sports field, we’ll find numerous examples of individuals with the speed, power and accuracy they need to excel in their game. They can be great team players too, just what the squad needs. But many of these people fail to realise their potential. They suffer injury and breakdown, either because they fail to pay enough attention to their nutrition, rest and recovery or because they used their bodies – their assets – unwisely. We understand these issues when they occur in people, but we can forget that machinery too needs careful management. We can get very excited about phenomenal processing speed or record-breaking output while ignoring the build-up of problems in an asset. An athlete can complain of fatigue, but a machine hasn’t got that capability. A skilled operator may hear something not running true, but when the imperative is to meet this month’s production targets, the warning signs can be ignored. This is a dangerous situation, but it’s the way many organisations operate. Production assets are very often a scarce resource in a system and management must balance multiple competing, demands. Often, they scrape by – on a wing and a prayer – hoping that their machinery will keep going until a
vital order is completed. Occasionally, they suffer a breakdown and all the costs and consequences of downtime. And although unplanned downtime can be seen as a risk worth taking, an extended period without production capacity can easily erode all the positive effects of faster processing times, not to mention the implications for customer service.
LOW-MAINTENANCE ASSETS ARE BETTER THAN NOMAINTENANCE ASSETS Often, we get into discussions with potential buyers looking for machinery where they won’t need to worry about breakdowns or maintenance. It can be a tricky conversation because although elumatec is known for the durability and reliability of its equipment, that long-term performance is a result not only of the engineering but also of our preventative maintenance. As engineers, we have a fascination with machinery. It goes beyond that of many who see a production asset as a means to an end. I’m not saying we see a machine as a living, breathing entity, but rather as something to be cared for and respected. Like the footballer who needs time on the physio’s bench if he’s to be ready for the next match, machinery performs better, lasts longer and is more reliable with regular
Neil Parton, MD, Elumatec UK
TLC. Success in the sporting arena requires a proactive approach to maintaining the body. In manufacturing, however, there can be a reluctance to even think about these things. An effective preventative maintenance plan should be part of every manufacturer’s strategy. This should identify critical machinery, include details of maintenance requirements and an optimal schedule of inspection and maintenance work. The keyword here is optimal – no one is suggesting that unnecessary work should be carried out as part of a routine, box-ticking exercise. If anyone questions the wisdom of having such a plan in place, I’d suggest they spend some time calculating the cost of downtime or a machine limping along at half capacity. And it’s not just downtime costs that need to be factored in. A poorly maintained machine could be a health and safety risk. It could be compromising the quality of your output, increasing scrap rates and rework. It could even be damaging the machine itself, turning your precious asset into a liability.
A TEAM EFFORT You could think of a machine as needing its own healthcare team: the operator, your inhouse maintenance team, external specialists. There’s monitoring, routine protection, regular checks and a plan for replacing key components before they cause issues. The best machinery – and I’ll admit to thinking about elumatec’s products here – is built to be both reliable and fixable. It’s expected that parts will need replacing or that adaptations may be required to suit changing demands. That’s not a weakness. It’s a strength. It’s how assets avoid the crash and burn. it’s how they keep on performing, year after year, to a ripe old age.
"Buyers look at whether the proposed equipment will deliver the desired output rates and standards of precision, and whether it will complement the operation’s existing infrastructure." 66
elumatec offers a range of highquality machining centres, saws and small machinery for the processing of aluminium, steel and PVC-U. Their UK operations are based in Milton Keynes. Contact them on 01908 580 800 or via email at sales@elumatec.co.uk or visit www.elumatec.com. READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0108
February 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk
SMR-5
The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper
TRADE NEWS
T H E F A S T E S T A N D M O S T A C C U R AT E W E L D E R O N T H E M A R K E T T O D AY ! 1 x Quad Welder = 1 x Square every 2 minutes Total per week = 1,200 squares 1 x SMR-5 Welder = 4 x Squares every 4 minutes Total per week = 2,400 squares 1 x SMR-5 Welder = 1 Complete Window every 4 minutes Total per week = 600 Windows Sums it up nicely!
For fast precision manufacturing take a closer look at the SMR-5 Welder from Haffner Murat today! 0220/0109
The Accolade Building, Common Road, Stafford, Staffordshire, ST16 3EQ
www.glassnews.co.uk | February 2020
Tel 01785 222421 67
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper
DECEUNINCK ALUMINIUM LAUNCHES WITH DUAL COLOUR AND MARINE GRADE AS STANDARD Deceuninck is bringing its expertise in systems supply to a new industry audience with the launch of Decalu, its cutting-edge ultraenergy efficient aluminium system. A complete aluminium window and door offer, it’s been designed to combine u-values of as low as 0.68W/ m2K, with significantly reduced manufacturing times and increased installation efficiencies. It’s also being underpinned by a commitment to bring new levels of service and flexibility to aluminium systems supply. This includes dual-colour and marine grade as standard - something which Nigel Headford, Deceuninck Aluminium’s Business Development Director, said would deliver significant advantages to fabricators and installers. “Decalu is a proven aluminium system, which is already established throughout Europe. It’s designed to be easy to manufacture, easy to install and cost-effective – adding-value and leaving manufacturers room to build in margin”, he said. “We’re also determined to change expectations of service and support in aluminium. This includes offering dual-colour product as standard.” He added that the Decalu systems range had been developed to encompass a complete suite of products. This he said had been designed to minimize stockholding through the use of a single inner frame and mid-section; integrated insulation and pre-inserted, co-extruded gaskets.
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SPACER BARS, DOCUMENT L, ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND TRIPLE GLAZING Thermoseal Group, the UK’s leading manufacturer and supplier of the largest volume of spacer bars for insulated glass (IG) sealed unit production, gives an insight into the spacer bar market and predicted future trends. Spacer bars, used primarily to space the panes of glass in double, triple and even quadruple glazing, have seen significant development and a change in market demand over recent years.
It encompasses the Decalu88 Bi-folding Door; Decalu163 Lift-and-Slide; the Decalu88 range of contemporary casements, reversible, tilt-and-turn, and heritage options; and Decalu101 Scand, Deceuninck Aluminium’s ultra-energy-efficient window system, which achieves u-values as low as 0.89W/m2K. At launch, the aluminium systems house has, however, chosen to place significant focus on the Decalu88 Bifolding Door, as a product which it argues delivers immediate advantages to fabricators – including PVC-U manufacturers who currently buy-in. “You don’t need to hold so much stock while the Decalu88 Bi-fold delivers a series of manufacturing efficiencies, which means you can cut manufacturing time by more than 30% against comparable aluminium systems”, Nigel said. “Use of pre-inserted, co-extruded gasket, means that you don’t get shrinkage, something which is a massive problem for installers – and as a fabricator, you a don’t need someone on in-house assembly, freeing up labour. “Another benefit for fabricators and installers is that as well as being available in dual colour as standard, the Decalu88 can also be colour matched to Deceuninck’s PVC-U foil range. “That’s a strong message in retail because you can sell
a house full of windows and doors from the same manufacturer with a perfect colour-match. “We believe it makes the case for those PVC-U fabricators who are buying-in aluminium doors to start manufacture. It immediately gives them more margin and addsvalue to their own customer offer”, he continued. The system has also been designed to support PVC-U specialists make the transition to in-house manufacture of aluminium through the use of a PVC-U Eurogroove, which means PVC-U manufactures don’t need to double-up on stockholding of hardware and gearing. In addition to its use of preinserted ‘no-shrink’ gaskets, the Decalu88 Bi-fold, also speeds up installation through the use of two jambs which offer 7mm each of tolerance, adjusting to out-of-square brickwork. “We are committed to changing the way aluminium systems supply works. We are a product but just as importantly - a service-led business. That’s proven in Deceuninck’s track record in PVC-U supply”, Nigel said. For more information call 01249 816 969, email deceuninck.ltd@ deceuninck.com or visit www.deceuninck.co.uk. READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0110
There has long-been a widespread decline in the demand for Aluminium spacer bars and an increase in the demand for more energy efficient warm edge spacers which has primarily been brought about by changes in legislation dictating improved energy efficiency in windows. Mark Hickox, Thermoseal Group’s Sales Director shares some of the Group’s insight. “Going back ten years, the vast majority of the UK spacer market was for Aluminium spacer. Despite the high level of promotion of warm edge spacers as a market differential, there was only a small market for warm edge spacers until revisions to Document L dictated improved U-values and influenced the introduction of the Window Energy Rating (WER) Scheme. Since then, the strive for ‘A’ rated WERs and now ‘A+’, ‘A++’ and in some cases even ‘A+++’ rated windows has influenced the specification of warm edge spacers and any window components which contribute towards increased energy efficiency. “In 2008, we started developing two of the most energy efficient spacer bars
available on the worldwide market – Thermobar warm edge spacer tube and Thermoflex flexible warm edge solution. Since then, our trend in sales has seen a continual decline in Aluminium and increase in the demand for our marketleading warm edge spacer bars. “There is likely to be further increase in the UK demand for warm edge spacers and other more energy efficient insulated glass (IG) components which could be escalated by revisions to document L - the current consultation document suggests solutions which may require the specification of triple glazing in new properties. Should this go ahead, the requirement for triple glazing will mean a significantly higher volume of spacer bar and fittings within each IG unit and so greater demand from manufacturers of premium high-performance warm edge products such as ourselves. “When you consider the worldwide spacer bar market is in excess of a billion metres of spacer per year, there is enough demand that spacer bar manufacturers will really need to raise their game to meet the volumes required by the market. You may have seen our announcement that we have purchased a new 2-acre production site in Wigan. This new site is currently going through rapid extensive reconstruction to provide further expansion for our warm edge spacer production and development of our Technical Centre and EN1279 test facilities. This is just one of the steps we are taking to move towards
our goal to become a world leader in the warm edge spacer market. “There is also the consideration of the corner keys and fittings for spacer bar. Over the past ten years, our injection moulding division has seen exponential growth and we now produce over 10 million mouldings per year. As the market grows, we aim to continue to produce our own range of bespoke fittings. “Staying ahead of the market is vital in the current climate, so our prided Technical Centre and EN1279 Test Centre are continually working to develop and improve our warm edge product offering with a view to designing and developing products to help achieve better and better thermal efficiency in windows. Our Account Managers work very closely with our customers in the development of new products, also in helping to keep them informed about new market influences. Triple glazing for example, will have major impact on IG sealed unit manufacturers and therefore the implications in terms of logistics, equipment, time and potential costs should already be up for discussion.” Thermoseal Group supplies over 2,500 IG Components and a wide range of IG manufacturing machinery. Contact them on 0845 331 3950 or Intl: +44 (0) 121 331 3950. Alternatively, visit www.thermosealgroup. com or e-mail sales@ thermosealgroup.com. READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0111
February 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk
LOOKING FOR THE RIGHT SUPPLIER FOR
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Unit 3, Lloyd Street, Parkgate, Rotherham, S62 6JG
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper
SENIOR HELPS PUT CAPITAL QUARTER ON THE MAP A landmark mixed-use scheme in Cardiff has been given a sleek and striking façade thanks to Senior Architectural Systems’ SF52 aluminium curtain wall system. Senior worked in collaboration with supply chain partner Denval to deliver the curtain wall package for two recently completed seven-storey office buildings, Capital Quarter No. 3 and No. 4. Combining slim sightlines and excellent thermal performance, Senior’s SF52 aluminium curtain walling was the ideal choice for the extensively-glazed buildings which, designed by Morgan 2 Morgan Architects, benefit from bright and modern interiors and a stylish envelope design. With a long and successful history of working with Senior on a variety of different contracts, including one of the very first buildings to be completed as part of the Capital Quarter development, Denval was keen to put forward a specification that featured Senior’s high-performance SF52 aluminium curtain wall system. Denval’s own appointment to fabricate and install the attractive facades of the two buildings also continues the specialist contractor’s positive relationship with property developer J R Smart. Located in the city centre and providing an exciting mix of facilities that include premium office space, hotels and student accommodation, the large-scale Capital Quarter
development is helping to redefine Cardiff ’s business community and has already attracted the attention of some of the UK’s leading companies.
Senior’s popular SF52 aluminium system features attractive slim sightlines and enhanced thermal performance to help boost energy-efficiency. Available as a mullion drained
system which removes the need for visible drainage slots, Senior’s SF52 curtain wall can be specified as capped, silicone sealed or as a combination of the two for even greater design flexibility. Thanks to Senior’s in-house powder coating facility, the SF52 system is available in an almost unlimited range of colours and finishes. For more information about Senior, visit www.seniorarchitectural.co.uk or search for Senior Architectural Systems on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook. READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0113
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February 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper
‘THE LANDING’ GEARS UP FOR NEW TENANTS WITH TECHNAL MX52 An ambitious refurbishment project to upgrade and reconfigure an office building located close to Manchester Airport has involved cladding and architectural glazing specialist, Dortech, installing MX52 curtain wall and other systems from Technal. Now known as The Landing, the building was originally occupied by the gear and chain manufacturer, Renold, and was acquired by The Property Alliance Group to extend its ownership of the Trident Business Park: offering new tenants 18,000 sq ft of Grade A space, as well as access to sports facilities and a dedicated shuttle bus linking to the airport. Following a competitive tender process, Dortech was awarded a contract by the main contractor to supply and install 150 m2 of visible grid and toggle style, MX52 curtain wall. The scope of the work also saw the Huddersfield based manufacturer producing two automatic opening PY doors and some 400 linear metres of bespoke aluminium flashings.
Importantly, in a location liable to suffer aircraft and other noise, the curtain walling and other Technal systems provide good acoustic insulation performance; with a sound reduction approaching 40 dB where the IG unit sizes demand larger glazing thicknesses for strength. Meanwhile Low-E, heat soaked toughened glass and argon filled cavities aid the thermally broken aluminium frames of the Technal system to achieve excellent thermal performance. A spokesperson for the project team commented: “This was a performance driven specification under which the contractor wanted to work with Dortech as its façade specialist, and Dortech proposed the use of the Technal systems as it meets all of the project requirements. “The specification set high performance values for the curtain walling and replacement windows in terms of thermal insulation and weather penetration. The work involved replacing the main entrance doors with two new sliding doors and stripping out the whole first floor gable wall - replacing it with fully glazed curtain wall, which now looks very striking.”
sections. Varying IG unit thicknesses can be incorporated into the grid, with the option of concealed vents to achieve natural ventilation. There is also an additional option of a 62mm module for the MX Visible Grid vertical façade.
MX52 Visible Grid curtain walling offers specifiers the option of creating larger glazing areas due to the enhanced strength and reduced deflection of the transom
Technal is part of the Hydro Group, a world leader in aluminium solutions. Through its globally renowned Hydro Technology Hubs, the group is shaping a sustainable
future, with innovative products that satisfy and surpass customer expectations, in line with demands of CSR and increasing environmental regulations. For more information, please visit www.technal.com/en/ukor follow Technal UK on LinkedIn.
READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0114
From inception, to perfection Our technical strides ensure we remain the leading UK manufacturer of highest performance warm edge spacers. We supply the largest volume of spacer bar to the UK market. From initial design and compounding of raw materials, through the manufacturing process to delivery to the customer, our multiple award-winning team of specialists continue to enhance and develop new products for the window industry. We now supply over 2,000 insulated glass components. 0220/0115
Thermof lex ™ Warm Edge Spacer
Thermobar ™ Warm Edge Spacer Tube
Dedicated to Insulated Glass
Proud winners of The Queen’s Award for Enterprise: International Trade 2017 www.thermosealgroup.com • +44 (0) 121 331 3950 • sales@thermosealgroup.com
www.glassnews.co.uk | February 2020 00012 THE Ad Campaign 2018 A5 Ad Current.indd 1
71 15/10/2018 16:15
CAREERS & QUALIFICATIONS IN FENESTRATION
The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper
SPONSORED BY GQA AND BUILDING OUR SKILLS GQA Qualifications is the only issuer of CSCS cards for the Glass and Fenestration industries. Building Our Skills is a strategic campaign designed to help bridge the growing skills gap in the Fenestration Industry
CAREERS
CAREERS
GQA NEW CORPORATE BROCHURE NOW AVAILABLE
APEER’S REGIONAL SALES MANAGER NIGEL EVANS RETIRES
GQA Qualifications, the Fenestration Industry’s leading awarding body, has produced a new corporate brochure, which sets out the aims and culture of the organisation, and outlines what it offers the industry.
Apeer’s Nigel Evans is retiring at the end of January, with Lucie Miller set to take over his role as Southern Regional Sales Manager. Nigel, a well-known face in the industry with over 43 years of experience, leaves the company after six years. He takes with him his encyclopaedic knowledge of people and companies that his colleagues will miss. “It has been a pleasure to have Nigel on board” said Asa McGillian, Apeer’s Managing Director. “He is known by lots of people and he knows the industry inside out. We wish him all the best in his retirement.” Nigel is looking forward to spending more time with his family in retirement, having recently become a grandfather of three, as well as enjoying more tennis. “I wish all my colleagues and customers the best, and every success for the future,” he said. Excited to expand her sales role in this area is Lucie Miller, who joined Apeer in October from Truedor. She is looking
forward to developing Apeer’s business in the south of England and introducing more customers to the comprehensive Apeer door and Lumi window ranges. Lucie has plenty of products to introduce customers to, including the company’s two most recent products: Apeer’s smooth-skin Silka composite doors which look just like aluminium and are proving very popular with customers, and the newest iteration of its heralded Lumi frameless windows, Lumi2, for the replacement window market. www.apeer.co.uk READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0116
Anyone wishing to view the new brochure can download it from www.gqaqualifications.com or request a copy by phoning 0114 272 0033.
With a heritage that includes over twentyfive years of writing industry-relevant vocational qualifications, GQA is recognised for its commitment to raising standards. GQA’s ethos is that all qualifications should be wholly industry-relevant and should be delivered only by suitably structured and knowledgeable organisations. That is why it has developed a network of over 100 approved training centres. GQA is the sole provider of CSCS cards for the fenestration and glazing industries, and provides nearly fifty fenestration industry relevant qualifications across the UK. The organisation is also a major promoter of practical training for the industry to underpin the many hands-on roles that employees undertake. In addition, GQA is actively involved in the Building Our Skills – Making Fenestration a Career of Choice campaign.
READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0117
0220/0118
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February 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk
The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper
CAREERS
CAREERS & QUALIFICATIONS IN FENESTRATION CAREERS
NEW BUILDING OUR SKILLS ACADEMY OPENS IN ASSOCIATION WITH GQA QUALIFICATIONS The end of 2019 saw the official opening in Sheffield by Lord Blunkett of the new Building Our Skills academy, established in association with GQA Qualifications. The academy is the first of a planned network of facilities designed to offer hands-on practical training in the fenestration Industry. Training offered at the academy will include surveying, window and door installation, curtain wall and glass technology, in addition to theoretical training courses.
FOUR MEMBERS OF HURST TEAM CELEBRATE 80 YEARS OF JOINT SERVICE Four members of the Hurst Doors team have been honoured for their hard work and dedication to the business after receiving their 20 Year Service Awards. The awards were presented at their headquarters in Hull in front of the whole Hurst team by Gary Hurst, Managing Director of the Hurst Group. Claire Lutkin, Sarah West, Mark Taylor and Chris Edwards all received engraved commemorative crystal tankards and wine glasses, along with being awarded an extra week’s holiday entitlement as thanks for their hard work. Lutkin, West, Taylor and Edwards join 27 other members of the Hurst team, who have been with the business for over 20 years – equating to over 620 years’ experience between them. Hayley Barker, Marketing Manager at Hurst Doors said: “A happy team means happy customers and, as a family-owned business, we have a strong, shared ethos that places the well-being and happiness of our people at the heart of everything we do. We’re really proud that our staff turnover is consistently low, a key indication that so many members of the team see Hurst as a great place to work. We’re delighted to congratulate Claire, Sarah, Mark and Chris on their very impressive, eighty years of service between them. “This level of experience and commitment to Hurst Doors allows us to provide the highest levels of service and quality advice to our customers – and we strongly believe
www.glassnews.co.uk | February 2020
The new academy is supported by a large number of key Fenestration Industry employers. Those who wish to do so can attend a range of courses and master classes at the facility, send their staff to do the same or host their own product training there for their customers.
that this level of staff experience sets us apart from other door manufacturers.” Sarah West, Sales Order Processor at Hurst Doors, met her husband at Hurst, and said: “One of the best things about working here is how much it feels like one giant family. The panel processing team work closely together and we have great communication with the factory and other departments. This creates product efficiency and means we can respond quickly to any enquiries. Most importantly, the support we receive at Hurst allows us to do our jobs to the best of our abilities whilst picking up new skills along the way.” Claire Lutkin, Accounts Clerk at Hurst Doors, joined the business after completing a work placement in 1999, and said: “I joined the business after completing a work placement in 1999 and one of the best things about working here is the sense of team spirit and how we all support each other, it’s certainly one of the reasons that so many people choose careers here. It’s great to be a part of a team that works so effectively together to make sure we always provide the highest quality products and level of service to our customers.”
CEO of GQA, Mick Clayton, has been a passionate advocate of practical training for many years. He comments: “To be able to make the new academy a reality is absolutely fantastic. I am over the moon that we are going to be able to bring more opportunities than ever to those in the fenestration industry who seek career progression. This is the start of a proposed extensive network of facilities around the country that will help to raise standards in the industry, and I for one can’t wait to see it fully utilised.” Underpinned by GQA, the Building Our Skills campaign is designed to attract new entrants, young people and career changers into the dynamic Fenestration Industry. GQA Qualifications is the industry’s leading awarding body and has been writing industry-relevant qualifications for over twenty-five years. GQA is the only awarding body licensed to offer CSCS cards in the fenestration industry. Further information is available at www.gqaqualifications.com. READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0120
NEW APPOINTMENTS
ODL EUROPE FURTHER STRENGTHENS THEIR SALES MANAGEMENT TEAM ODL Europe, supplier of the marketleading TriSYS frame system, the Capstone composite door slab and Blink enclosed blinds has further strengthened its management team with the appointment of Andy Meakin as Business Development Manager. Andy is a well-known industry figure having spent over two decades working for various hardware manufacturers, system sales, fabrication businesses and latterly with Everest Home Improvements. As such, he brings with
him a wealth of customer-facing experience and in-depth industry knowledge. Commenting on his appointment, Andy said: “I am delighted to have joined ODL Europe. It’s a well-respected business and continues to gain market share with its ambitious plans for growth. The company continues to invest to bring new technically-lead products to the market and I am delighted to part of a growing and innovative business.”
Hurst Doors manufactures over 500 composite doors and over 3000 door panels a week from its factory in Hull and has a national network of over 1300 installers.
Andy joined ODL Europe in January this year. Commenting on his appointment, Managing Director of ODL Europe, Nathan Barr said: “Andy’s appointment is a positive move for our business and for our customers. He has a vast knowledge of the market and first-hand experience of the needs of fabricators and installers. We are delighted to have found a passionate and determined sales professional who will be a great addition to the team. Andy’s appointment will ensure we maintain our impetus as demand for our product range continues to grow.”
For more information on Hurst, please visit www.hurstdoors.co.uk
Tel: 0151 933 0299 www.odl.com/europe.htm
Over the last 18 months, the steady growth of the business has led to the Hurst team growing by 15%. Despite these latest additions to the team, almost 50% of the Hurst workforce has been with the business for a minimum of ten years.
READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0119
Left to Right: Andy Meakin, Nathan Barr
READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0121
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NEW APPOINTMENTS
FROM DOJO TO DEKKO: KUNG FU CHAMPION BECOMES NEW NATIONAL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Following a record year for the business, trailblazing trade fabricator Dekko Window Systems has strengthened its team with a new key appointment. The premium fabricator is delighted to announce Sylvester Allen has joined the team as their new National Business Development Manager. In his new role, Sylvester will support Dekko’s sales team in nurturing existing customer partnerships, as well building new relationships with customers across the UK. Sylvester brings almost three decades of industry experience, having previously worked for one of the UK’s largest manufacturers and suppliers of uPVC glazing products. He also brings a strong
work ethic, developed during a six-year stint as part of the British Army. In addition to his long career in the fenestration industry, Sylvester also has a decorated background in martial arts. As a 2nd Dan Black Belt, Sylvester has not only represented Great Britain in Kung Fu, but won the King Cobra National Championship in 1993 – a title he successfully defended in 1994. If that wasn’t enough, Sylvester was even awarded honorary citizenship by a Mayor in Pennsylvania after he defeated the American Kung Fu champion in 1994. “I’m absolutely thrilled to join Dekko, especially at such an exciting time for the business,” Sylvester comments. “In the short time I’ve been here, I’ve been so impressed by the care and attention Dekko put into all their products. Their commitment to great customer service has also been clear to see, and something I’m hoping to emulate in this fantastic role.
“I’m looking forward to getting out there and speaking to new and existing customers, highlighting everything Dekko has to offer ambitious installers, from valuable products to great service and complete support. Dekko are a breath of fresh air in this industry so I’m really excited to get stuck in.” Kurt Greatrex, Sales Director at Dekko adds: “We’re delighted to welcome Sylvester to the Dekko team. With a wealth of knowledge and experience in the industry, he will certainly be a great asset to the sales team and the wider business. “As part of his remit, Sylvester will work closely with new and existing customers to highlight new opportunities to expand their business. With Infinity uPVC, Räum aluminium and the complete Residence Collection all under one roof, we have the premium brands installers need to succeed in this competitive market. I look forward to working with Sylvester and our
fantastic team to support our valued trade customers.” Dekko Windows Systems was founded in 2008 by Gary Torr and Kurt Greatrex, and is one of the UK’s leading fabricators of high-end uPVC, aluminium and timberalternative windows and doors. Their range includes the Infinity uPVC collection, Räum aluminium and the complete Residence Collection, becoming one of the industry’s largest manufacturers of the timber-effect range. For more information contact Dekko on 0161 406 0055 or visit www.dekkowindows.com. READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0122
NEW APPOINTMENTS
WE’RE HIRING: APPLY TO BE OUR NEW CUSTOMER FULFILMENT MANAGER As creators of market-leading insulating glass spacer systems, at Edgetech we’ve always challenged ourselves to deliver more for our customers. Whether it’s creating products that exceed industry standards in thermal efficiency or enhance the production line to boost productivity, Edgetech creates and delivers the tools our customers need to excel. With this in mind, we have recently restructured all the functions that impact our daily customer service into our Customer Fulfilment team. We are now seeking a Customer Fulfilment Manager to drive this area forward. In this position you will be a crucial addition to the team, contributing to our goal of delivering excellent customer service.
ABOUT THE ROLE The postholder will manage the UK Customer Fulfilment team; creating a professional customer-facing office team and co-ordinate all activities relating to the wider vision of delivering excellence in customer service.
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Working hours: Monday to Thursday 8.15am – 5.00pm Friday 8.30am – 4.00pm Holidays: 22 days per year plus 8 bank holidays Pension: Auto-enrolment Bonus: Non-contractual and nonguaranteed company-wide bonus programme Healthcare: You will be eligible to join the health care plan after successfully completing the probationary period
THE PERSON Working in a small team you will utilise both your management and customer services experience. Your excellent communication skills will be used daily due to the frequent interaction with customers and close-knit nature of the interconnecting teams within the Company. With a hands-on approach, you will be comfortable moving between data entry one moment, through to managing key accounts or completing annual performance reviews.
You will be an individual who challenges, in a positive and constructive manner, and strives for continuous improvement. In addition to your excellent leadership qualities, you will be personally driven to succeed and committed to achieving the best you can. Proactive and pragmatic you will be adaptable and flexible in your approach adding in some additional duties as and when required, all within the reasonable expectation and level of the role. To review the full Job Description and Person Specification please see here: https://www. edgetechig.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/ customer-fulfillment-manager-002.pdf. We welcome applications from those who meet the essential criteria associated with the role. We may not be able to reply to every applicant but those successfully shortlisted will be contacted within 10 days of application. To view a copy of our candidate privacy policy please see: https://www.edgetechig. co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/WebsitePrivacy-and-Cookies-Policy-FINAL.pdf. READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0123
February 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk
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NEW APPOINTMENTS
CAREERS & QUALIFICATIONS IN FENESTRATION CAREERS
ADRIAN REDSHAW JOINS GARNALEX BFRC STRENGTHEN TECHNICAL AS SHEERLINE DESIGN DIRECTOR
RESOURCES WITH INDUSTRY LEADING EXPERTISE
Adrian Redshaw is the latest industry technical expert to join Garnalex, and will be focused on the launch of the innovative Sheerline aluminium window and door system. Adrian or ‘Reg’ as he’s better known, takes up the full-time role of Sheerline Design Director this January, and has enjoyed a long and successful career within the industry. Starting his career at LB Plastics he later moved to HL Plastics and has worked with Garnalex CEO Roger Hartshorn for over 30 years. He was instrumental in the design and development of Eurocell’s many products and then as Design Director was responsible for the design and development of Liniar’s window and door systems. Adrian left Liniar in June 2019 to join a long-term friend in a new business startup, but was quickly drawn back to work with Roger and join the Garnalex team. He explains: “I was initially working on a parttime basis for Garnalex, helping to develop the Sheerline product range, but this level of new product development is a full-time job for myself and the whole Design team. “We launch Sheerline – a truly groundbreaking aluminium window and door system – at the end of March. We’re designing this exciting system from the ground up to make it easier to fabricate, install and sell, so we’ll have lots to tell the market in the coming months. Watch this space!” Roger Hartshorn adds: “Adrian’s a wellknown industry figure, and his track record
The British Rating Fenestration Council (BFRC), a division of GGF’s Commercial arm and the body responsible for establishing the independent ‘rainbow’ ratings system for verifying the energy performance of windows and doors, has announced the addition of two new technical resources on a permanent basis.
Adrian Redshaw joins Garnalex as Sheerline Design Director
at Eurocell and Liniar speaks for itself. Working closely with Phil Parry, Sheerline Testing & Standards Director, and the rest of the five-strong design department, he will ensure Sheerline surpasses industry expectations and transforms the aluminium market.” Visit www.sheerline.com to find out more. Follow @SheerlineSystem and @GarnalexSystems for the latest news and updates. READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0124
George Higgs, Lead Building Physicist and Managing Director of Building Energy Physics Consultancy Ltd and Richard Bate, Technical Director of Build Check Ltd will provide further technical support to BFRC and bring with them a wealth of knowledge and established proven track records within the field of fenestration product testing and evaluation. Both are long standing members of the BFRC Technical Committee and their increased input, ahead of new product launches in the summer, will broaden the technical diversity and integrity of the BFRC, contributing towards wider acceptance of BFRC ‘rainbow’ energy ratings as the industry’s de facto energy performance scheme. Lis Clarke, BFRC Operations Director, says she is delighted to have secured the further input of two of the industry’s leading experts: “As the most widely used ratings
system in the window and door sector it’s vital we continue to set the benchmark and improve standards throughout the industry. Bringing in such hugely knowledgeable resources such as George and Richard will improve our technical standing and expertise immeasurably, ensuring that BFRC calculations become even more technically robust.” Build Check’s Richard Bate responded by saying: “Being the very first BFRC registered simulator and having over 20 years’ experience with independent testing and product certification for the fenestration industry I am delighted to assist in helping them achieve the ambitious goals they have set for the year ahead.” George Higgs of BEPC said: “I have had a long standing relationship with BFRC for many years and therefore delighted to be able to work with them as a technical consultant.” READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0125
CAREERS
VEKA CELEBRATES FIVE CENTURIES OF STAFF SERVICE VEKA UK hosts an annual ‘long service lunch’ each year to recognise and reward employees celebrating 5, 10, 15, 25 and 30 years of service. In 2019, December’s lunch saw 45 employees presented with certificates commending a collective 500 years! The industry-leading PVCu systems manufacturer invited long-serving staff from departments across the business to come and celebrate their ‘VEKAversaries’ with a buffet and certificate presentation. After presenting the certificates MD Dave Jones commented: “Here at VEKA, we know that our people are our most valuable asset. We’re proud to offer a wealth of career
www.glassnews.co.uk | February 2020
benefits in order to attract the best talent, and then we work hard to keep them! Celebrating employees that have been with us long term is just one of the ways we recognise all the hard work that goes on at VEKA. Our global brand and reputation for quality, excellence and innovation mean nothing without our hard-working staff, so it’s only right that we should mark and reward these anniversaries.”
VEKA UK is proud to be a major employer for Burnley and the surrounding region, and to have been named ‘Employer of the Year’ at both the Burnley Business Awards and the Red Rose Awards in recent years. Most staff live within the BB postcode and the company’s values are often referred to as VEKA ‘SPIRIT’ (Success, Pride, Integrity, Responsible, Improvement and Team).
SPIRIT has become the basis for all employer/ employee interaction from recruitment to retirement, and everything in between. With regular employee engagement surveys, SPIRIT Map career plans, flexible working, the opportunity for staff to enjoy more holidays, healthcare plans, childcare vouchers, loyalty schemes, attendance bonuses, wedding and baby gifts, personal loans, wellbeing initiatives, rewards, recognition, and significant investment in training and development – it’s little wonder that VEKA UK prompts the sort of loyalty on display at this year’s long-service celebration lunch. Dave said: “Congratulations and a huge ‘thank you’ once again to all the staff celebrating 500 years with us this year!” Visit www.veka.co.uk to find out more. READER ENQUIRY NO: 0220/0126
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British Plastics Federation (BPF) Tel: 0207 457 5000
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Health & Safety Executive (HSE) – Glass & Related Industries Phil Smith, HM Principal Inspector Tel: 01782 602300 David Appleton, HM Inspector Tel: 0115 9712800
BSI – Product Certification & Testing Tel: 08450 765600 BBSA (British Blind & Shutter Association) Tel: 01449 780444 Building Research Establishment (BRE) Tel: 01923 664000 Council for Aluminium in Building (CAB) Tel: 01453 828851 Dekura Tel: 01952 201631 Door & Hardware Federation (DHF) Tel: 01827 52337 Double Glazing & Conservatory Ombudsman Scheme (DGCOS) Tel: 0845 053 8975
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Fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme (FENSA) Tel: 0207 645 3700
Waste & Resources Action Programme (WRAP) Tel: 01295 819 900
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Glass News - Classified Advert Bifods 2020.indd 1
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