Hardware

HORIZONTAL VS VERTICAL:

WHICH IS RIGHT FOR YOUR INSTALLATION?

Julian Roberts, technical services director at UAP, the specialist in hardware and locking systems for the fenestration sector, discusses the vertical and horizontal models in the UAP Fullex Kinetica+ K4 range and provides tips on selecting the most appropriate model.

For most end users, a vertical cylinder is the expected and most natural installation; whether they are opening the front door to their property or their double doors onto the garden. But different designs of door, different property layouts and personal preference all have an influence on whether a vertical or horizontal 3* cylinder is the most appropriate choice.

PERSONAL PREFERENCE

Personal preference is usually the key driver for the choice between a vertical and a horizontal cylinder, but it’s important to understand the needs of the end user to ensure that the installation is aligned to the requirements. This includes a consideration of the installation environment, along with the position of the cylinder in the door. Sometimes, where a vertical cylinder might be the obvious choice, a horizontal cylinder can provide a solution to a spatial issue, for example, or there may be aesthetic factors to consider.

In many ways, whether a vertical or horizontal cylinder is chosen is immaterial, because both options are usually equally simple to install and use. Both can be keyed alike, to enable the end user to operate more than one lock with a single key if, for example, they have a pair of double doors, or they want to use the same key to access their home at both the front and the rear.

SECURITY PERCEPTIONS

The design of horizontal cylinders means that they are often perceived to offer more robust levels of security, so this may be a consideration for properties where the residents feel vulnerable or locations where there is a greater risk of break ins. In reality, if they are Secured by Design accredited, BSI 3* Kitemarked, and Sold Secure Diamond Standard approved, both vertical and horizontal cylinders will provide a robust level of security that makes it extremely difficult for criminals to break. Nonetheless, perceptions can carry substantial value, both for residents and insurance companies. For developers constructing retirement villages and assisted living projects, offering assurances of the number of different key combinations provided by the cylinder installed is another marketing message to add into the mix. The UAP Fullex range of Kinetica+ K4 3* cylinders highlights the key difference between vertical and horizontal models. Both models are BSI Kitemarked and Secured by Design accredited and Sold Secure Diamond Standard approved and they have many of the same security features, including UAP’s innovative anti-pick, anti-bump and anti-drill systems. Vertical Kinetica+ K4 cylinders provide more than 200,000 different key combinations thanks to six vertical pins within the cylinder. In the horizontal model, these are replaced with six dimple pins and five laser track side pins, creating the potential for 13 million differs, and making the lock even more difficult to pick. As an additional security measure, the UAP Fullex Kinetica+ K4 horizontal cylinder has been designed to allow only singleorientation key insertion. This has enabled the in-house UAP design team to create a smaller keyway for the horizontal model, making it even harder to attack the cylinder. By working closely with locksmiths to understand the latest techniques, the UAP design team approaches product development with a problem solving focus that considers new ways to overcome attempts to break in. Meanwhile, an emphasis on the end-user means that the design considers ease of use and convenience too; in this case, leading to the provision of an indentation on the key to indicate the correct key position for the end user, making it easier for them to open the door first time, every time. Just like the vertical model, the Kinetica+ K4 horizontal cylinder is supplied with three UAP Fullex Bio keys, which have antibacterial and antiviral properties. The Bio keys have been tested to ISO 22196:2011 standards and shown to reduce Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia col. They have also been tested to ISO 21702:2019 standards and shown to reduce SARS-COV-2 (COVID-19). The Bio keys’ unrestricted keyway makes it easier to have duplicate keys cut using the UAP Fullex Kinetica key blank, making both the vertical and horizontal models suitable for both domestic use and small mastersuite installations for commercial projects or multi-occupancy environments.

Julian Roberts

FUNCTIONALITY FIRST

Ultimately, all cylinders – vertical or horizontal – should be ease to install, smooth to operate and capable of providing robust security performance throughout their service life. For those unsure whether to opt for a vertical or horizontal cylinder, the specification choice begins by selecting a brand you can trust.

www.uapcorporate.com

WINDOW WARE 2022 ALUMINIUM HARDWARE CATALOGUE HAS LANDED!

Giving fabricators and commercial contractors a go-to source of leadingbrand door and window hardware and ventilation solutions designed to work specifically with aluminium systems.

The eagerly anticipated printed catalogue comes several months after the electronic edition was first released. That’s because the leading UK hardware provider has been working right down to the wire to squeeze in all the very latest product additions and new ranges into the brochure, so customers have the complete lowdown on its everexpanding range. “We’ve strengthened and developed our aluminium hardware offering massively over the last two years in response to aluminium’s continuing resurgence,” explains Rich Fraser, Window Ware’s Business Development Manager for Aluminium and Commercial. “And it’s still evolving month on month to meet emerging trends and fulfil our fabricators’ changing needs. The trouble is, you can’t add to or update a catalogue once it goes to print, so we deliberately took the extra time to make sure we were giving our customers the most current snapshot of everything we do!” The 132-page catalogue brings together practically everything a fabricator might need to fit out both aluminium doors and windows, including handles, hinges, locks and gearing, folding openers and window opening systems, not to mention commercial door hardware and panic bars, plus a wide range of ready-stocked or custom-built ventilation solutions.

“In our experience, enquiries about aluminium hardware are usually very project-driven and quite specific and many require pre-purchase technical support. That means fabricators and contractors can’t always buy straight off the page. Nevertheless, our brochure acts as an important first point of reference for our customers and does a great job of giving them a taste of the wide-ranging solutions we provide.” “It’s really about making sure aluminium fabricators know Window Ware is on hand to help with a broad choice of industrypreferred products, an expert ear and sound advice that can verify design specifications, identify the best solutions and ultimately meet project goals every time.” The Window Ware Hardware for Aluminium Profiles catalogue is out now. Call 01234 242724 to request your copy or visit www.windowware.co.uk/downloads to add one to your next order. Window Ware, has been successfully serving the window and door industry with leading brand hardware, tools, and consumables since 1987, helping to ensure fabricator production lines keep moving and trade counter shelves stay stocked. For more information, call 01234 242 724, email sales@windowware.co.uk, or visit www.windowware.co.uk.

ULTION SECURITY HANDLE TESTS EIGHT TIMES MORE THAN MINIMUM REQUIREMENT

Brisant’s Ultion 2 Star handle has been tested to 800,000 cycles in the EN 1906 test rig where its mechanical strength is tested, the door handle being opened and closed repeatedly. Whilst many handles aren’t even tested, the standard requirement is 100,000 cycles.

The 2 star handle smashed this target and lasted eight times longer than the minimum standard. Brisant’s design ethos is to develop products that do as much as possible, not as little as possible. As well as looking great the curved form on the Ultion 2 Star handle also helps to repel the elements and burglars. It has six coatings of armour plating and lasted a year in the weather test chamber, when the test standard needs only 10 days. But what is the point in still looking great and stopping burglars if the mechanism isn’t that strong? Steve Stewart, Founder and Ultion designer said, “Brisant creates product for customers who want better. We are delighted that it lasted eight times longer than industry requirement. This test isn’t just about how many times or how many years a door handle can be operate, it’s a demonstration of the overall build quality. These handles will now look great for good and work for good!”

"We are delighted that it lasted eight times longer than industry requirement."

Ultion 2 Star Handle after 800,000 cycles in the EN 1906 test rig

NATIONWIDE WINDOWS FIRST TO OFFER NEW PROSECURE 1 STAR CYLINDER FROM MILA

Nationwide Windows was quick off the mark when Mila launched its new antibump 1* BSI Kitemarked cylinder at the end of 2021.

The Rugby-based fabricator switched to the ProSecure cylinder for all its composite and PVC-U doors, pairing it with Mila’s popular 2* SupaSecure stainless steel security handle to provide trade, retail and commercial customers with a simple route to maximum 3* TS007 security compliance. Mila’s new enhanced security 1* cylinder is accredited to PAS24, TS007 and Secured by Design and comes with the added reassurance of the Kitemark which guarantees that quality and performance is tested and audited regularly via an independent 3rd party. For Nationwide, the 1 star/2 star combination is a practical and good value option, particularly suitable for its new build and social housing refurbishment contracts. It offers maximum security compliance, but still gives residents the option to order any additional keys quickly and easily from any high street locksmith. Daryl Cashmore, Nationwide Windows’ Operations Director, said: “For us, this is a solution which works across all our markets, where PAS24 and Secured by Design compliance are pretty much standard requirements now. ‘Buying both the cylinder and the handle from Mila means we get top quality products which are designed to be fitted together, a range of handle lever options and finishes, and guaranteed continuity of supply. “Mila became our hardware supplier of choice in 2018 and since then they have lived up to all our expectations. Quality and service is great and, even during last year’s supply chain crisis, they didn’t let us down.” The addition of the Mila ProSecure 1* TS007 cylinder to Mila’s range means customers now have three levels of choice when it comes to cylinder security, depending on the application and price point. At the top of the range, there is the Mila ProSecure 3* anti-snap cylinder, which meets the Master Locksmith’s Association coveted Sold Secure Diamond Standard, in the middle is the new enhanced security ProSecure 1* cylinder with anti-bump technology, and, at entry level, there is Mila’s ProLinea BreakSafe™ cylinder. All the details on the cylinder range are at: https://www.mila.co.uk/the-security-cylinder-edit/ and on Nationwide Windows and Doors at: https://www.nwd.co.uk/

BRISANT ACHIEVES 35% GROWTH ONE YEAR ON FROM BGF INVESTMENT

Secure lock and hardware supplier, Brisant Secure, has achieved 35% growth just one year on from securing investment from BGF – the UK and Ireland’s most active growth capital investor.

In addition, the company has grown its workforce with 33 new starters; has expanded its client base, with 450 businesses selling Brisant products for the first time; secured more than 600,000 homes; while expanding its Ultion product range for door suppliers, locksmiths and homeowners. Nick Dutton, joint CEO at Brisant Secure, commented: “The last 12 months have been pivotal in our ongoing development as a business, with the injection of BGF capital helping to accelerate our growth plans and crystalise our focus on both product and people development. “One of the biggest highlights was being chosen by the Home Office for the Safer Streets initiative, with over 1,000 locks purchased by the police to secure homes, while also achieving police-preferred specification.” He added: “Our consistent growth is centred on a commitment to providing robust products that raise the bar by consistently beating industry test standards. This is combined with our drive and ambition to provide an enhanced service to our customers, a better working environment for our employees, and safer products. That means we never stop researching, developing, and testing new ideas to provide customers with the safest products in the market.”

The impressive growth coincides with Brisant being recognised as a living wage employer by the Living Wage Foundation. The company has received official accreditation from the foundation – a Citizens UK initiative which campaigns for more employers to pay a living wage – after growing its workforce by over 25%. Living wage employers in the UK include IKEA, Nationwide, Aviva and KPMG. Brisant was recognised by the organisation for paying the real living wage to all directly employed staff – the only UK wage rate that is voluntarily paid by businesses. Dutton said: “One of our core values as a business, and one of the main reasons we have achieved the success we have, is the investment we make in our people. “It’s vital that our employees are treated fairly and rewarded for the work they do, which is why it was important for us to ensure we pay all our staff the real living wage. Receiving official accreditation from the Living Wage Foundation is a real statement of intent and demonstrates our commitment to our workforce, both in the Midlands and Yorkshire.”

Since launching in 2013, Brisant has been raising the standards of the fenestration industry by helping fabricators and installers sell more doors. Last year, the company featured in the annual Sunday Times Virgin Atlantic Fast Track 100 for the second consecutive year as one of the UK’s fastest growing businesses. BGF investor, Seb Saywood, who sits on the Brisant board, said: “The innovation and passion that first attracted us to Brisant continues to shine through and the growth achieved within the first 12 months of our investment is testament to that approach. “Being recognised as a living wage employer and cementing its position as one of the leading companies in the door security field, demonstrates the value that can be found in being both customer and employee-centric.”

TOTAL HARDWARE SUPPORTS CUSTOMERS WITH PART F CHANGES

With the changes to Part F of Building Regulations coming into force in June, leading hardware supplier Total Hardware is already helping its customers get ready for the transition. The regulations, which cover the ventilation of buildings, will be a big change for the industry.

Chris Pell, General Manager at Total Hardware, said: “The new regulations mean two big changes for the industry. Fortunately, we’re well-prepared for the change and already hold stock of compliant products from both Glazpart and R W Simon to help our customers with the transition.” The first big change is the number of trickle vents that will need to be fitted. Chris commented: “It’s estimated that 30% of windows have trickle vents fitted at the moment. After 15 June 2022, this will increase to over 95%. Obviously, that means greater stocks will be needed across the industry. We’re ready for this so our customers can be ready for the transition.” The second big change is the size of the trickle vents. Chris said: “The requirement for ventilation is much bigger than it used to be because there’s a recognition that there’s a clear link between good ventilation and good health. It means that not all the vents currently on the market will meet the new requirements. However, products from both Glazpart and R W Simon are ready for the change and we have the products our customers need.” Total Hardware has built strong relationships with some of the leading worldwide hardware manufacturers, which is one of the reasons the company is able to be so proactive about the changes to Part F. It expanded its premises by 20% last year, which means it can hold greater stock levels to support its customers’ businesses. And it offers a comprehensive range of products across all price points, including its own bespoke hardware ranges, as well as Part-F compliant options. This proactive, customer-focused approach is why the company is going from strength to strength. To find out more about how Total Hardware can help you comply with Part F requirements and more, get in touch with the team today. Tel: 0113 243 2255 www.totalhardwareltd.co.uk

GREENTEQ ORION RETAINS ITS INTEGRITY

The popular greenteQ Orion TS007 3 star profile cylinder from hardware specialist VBH is now available in bespoke keyed alike suites.

Until now, keyed alike cylinders were available in factory-produced pairs or batches of 10, but all the cylinders were matching in size and finish. With the new option to open and re-pin Orion cylinders, customers can now have cylinders of different sizes and finishes, all operated by the same key; perfect in a home with a composite front door, an aluminium bi-fold and a PVCu back door, for example. Orion keyed alike sets are processed and despatched usually within 3-5 working days. Dan Powell, Head of Sales at VBH, who has been heavily involved in the development of Orion says, “We are delighted to advise our existing customers and the market at large that everything is now in place to produce customer-bespoke keyed alike sets. “Orion has proved incredibly popular with door manufacturers and installers, as well as the locksmith industry, since its launch in 2021. The key alike option will only enhance its appeal.” Orion cylinders are approved to Kitemark TS007 with a full 3 star rating. They are available in key/key, and key/thumb turn variants.

End users are encouraged to register their new cylinder for the free proteQ10 snap guarantee. proteQ10 will pay the end-user £2000 direct if a break in is achieved due to the cylinder snapping within 10 years of the installation date.

Dan points out, “greenteQ Orion cylinders that have been re-pinned through VBH still retain the integrity of their TS007 Kitemark 3 star classification, which means that we can continue to offer the proteQ10 snap guarantee on these barrels. “It’s important that fabricators and installers are aware that this is not the case with all cylinders or re-pinning services. In many cases, once a cylinder has been opened, the TS007 Kitemark is void.”