45 minute read
Trade News
BREATHE EASY WITH REHAU’S TRICKLE VENT SOLUTION
Building regulations covering ventilation are due to alter the fenestration landscape from 15th June 2022 onwards. Malcolm Taylor, Commercial Product Manager at REHAU Windows, discusses how industry professionals must be ready to navigate the key changes and meet requirements.
Absence of quality ventilation has the potential to ’lock in‘ poor environments with many consequences - such as impacting the health of building occupants. In fact, the recent public health crisis has exacerbated the need for good air quality. To make matters worse, home working is creating further problems for those who reside in low-quality housing, as well as areas with poor air quality.
LEGISLATIVE DEVELOPMENTS
Due to these longstanding concerns, regulatory updates are now being implemented to instigate a step change through building regulations compliance. Indeed, both naturally ventilated homes and those with continuous mechanical extracts fell short of provisions laid out in Approved Document F (ADF). Yet, with the current climate simultaneously highlighting and exacerbating the need for good air quality, the spotlight has fallen on the aerodynamic performance of windows. To protect the health of building occupants, changes to the Building Regulations will be implemented June 2022 in England, with Wales set to follow suit shortly after. Specifically, trickle vents installed in all new dwellings and replacement windows will need to be compliant with ventilation requirements laid out in Approved Document F.
Malcolm Taylor, Commercial Product Manager at REHAU Windows
TRICKLE IN
Trickle ventilators (vents) are simple to install and provide control for adequate means of ventilation. As such, they are suitable for use in houses and many flats or apartments with multiple façades. Overall requirements have changed from free area to equivalent area (EQA), with the inclusion of replacement windows. Consequently, it is vital that organisations come together to help fenestration professionals be fully prepared to meet changing ventilation building regulations and better navigate this new regulatory landscape. With this in mind, REHAU has partnered with plastic injection moulder, Glazpart, to expand its frame accessory selection to include the Link Vent Range. Need for the Link Vent 5000 EQA trickle vents is expected to increase, while the 2500 EQA trickle vents continue to enjoy growing demand. As appearance remains key for homeowners, enhancing trickle vent design is a necessary step. REHAU and Glazpart’s new trickle vent is a prime example of this approach in action. The latest finishes are less obtrusive, with no compromise on air-flow efficiency. It is also worth considering trickle vents that are designed with a specific profile in mind. For example REHAU’s trickle vent comes complete with an optional easy-to-install clip and a selection of colours to match your REHAU profile. An innovative “link” is another design facet that allows the closure plate to be positioned to reduce draughts with the benefit of directing air away from occupants.
CAREFUL CONSIDERATION
At the same time, fenestration professionals will need to understand how to implement products in line with regulatory requirements. For new dwellings, habitable rooms and kitchens should contain trickle ventilators of minimum 8000 mm2 EQA (single store 10,000mm ) and bathrooms should have minimum 4000 mm2 EQA. There are also other facts to consider during building design. In new build properties, there are minimum requirements on the number of trickle vents used, with open plan layouts needing a minimum of three ventilators. If the building has more than one façade, then same size vents should be fitted opposite to allow improved cross-flow ventilation.
For replacement windows in existing dwellings, solutions must be ‘at the minimum like for like’. Replacement windows must include trickle ventilators no smaller in geometric open area than those previously fitted. If the geometric area is not known, habitable rooms and kitchens should contain trickle ventilators of minimum 8000 mm2 EQA and bathrooms should have minimum 4000 mm2 EQA. They must also be controllable either automatically or by the occupant. New reporting, compliance, and certification to dwelling owners from installers and their supply chain will also be necessary from 15th June 2022. Here, compliance with building regulations must be demonstrated at point of installation, with the ability to show conformance with an auditable trail.
WHAT NEXT?
For effective rollout of trickle vents on all new and replacement windows, it is critical to review and understand the approved documents to assure compliance. Preserving the health and safety of the end user must remain the common goal for all those working in the construction industry. As such, appropriate consideration will remain important in providing adequate ventilation provisions. Here, REHAU looks to play its part, by supplying appropriate solutions that can futureproof frames against the shifting legislative landscape.
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STERNFENSTER’S CONTINUED INVESTMENT PLANS
Sternfenster has committed to a £600K-plus investment for a new Schirmer cutting and machining centre for its PVC-U fabrication line, which will benefit customers with reduced lead times and improved product quality.
This new machine, which will come online during the first quarter of 2023, is part of a wider capital expenditure by the Lincoln-based fabricator that will result in efficiencies across all aspects of the business, including IGU manufacture, window and door production, and delivery. “What we learned during the pandemic is that companies that stood still were the first to fall as the demand on production exceeded expectations,” Managing Director Mike Parczuk explained. “We’ve seen other fabricators sweat their assets to the point of destruction as they’ve pushed their factories to the limit to keep on top of the increased demand experienced across the window and door industry. This has resulted in poor-quality products and unpredictable lead times.
“As that demand is now starting to drop away, we are seeing companies deciding to sit tight and see where the market is heading before committing to investment in infrastructure. Or they weren’t as profitable as they expected to be, and they are holding on to the cash. Either way, quality of product and service could suffer.” The Schirmer cutting and machining centre is designed with efficiency in mind. A high-speed gripper transports the full-length profiles – or re-useable off-cuts – through the machine with vastly improved accuracy, and a six-axis tooling module performs all necessary routing in a single pass. A three-axis milling unit allows Sternfenster to endmill the profile online – rather than as a separate process – again improving accuracy, speeding up production and reducing damage to profiles thanks to reduced handling. “The Schirmer machine is a serious bit of kit, which helps us to realise our ambition to fabricate windows and doors quickly, accurately, and with as little handling as possible,” Mike said. “This way, human error is reduced, and we can concentrate on quality control and freeing up bottle-necks in our production.” Sternfenster is also looking to improve PVC-U production further with a new welder and corner cleaner, while the glass processing division will soon receive a new glass cutting table. Plans are also being drawn up to invest heavily in a new IGU line, which would realise significant benefits through the business, including improved production speeds, reduced errors, and sustainability gains. Ongoing investment in the fabricator’s fleet will see a £200K outlay for two new trucks, which will replace two of the company’s older vehicles next year. This follows the £500K-plus outlay on four new 18-tonne lorries, alongside the refurbishment of older vehicles, Sternfenster made in March this year. For more information visit www.sternfenster.com email sales@sternfenster.co.uk or call 01522 512525.
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MILESTONE YEAR FOR PATIOMASTER SOUTH EAST
This year, PatioMaster South East is celebrating 20 years as a PatioMaster dealer with Epwin Window Systems. Simon Spiers, Director of PatioMaster South East, said: “We are extremely proud of what PatioMaster South East has achieved in the past 20 years. During this time, we have seen various industry and economic peaks and troughs, but our business has always remained steadfast and adapted well to market conditions. Back in 2002, we could see the market-leading credentials of the PatioMaster door and two decades later, the product remains as popular as ever.”
PatioMaster South East’s success is the perfect example of a business with a laser-focussed determination to deliver the best in sliding patio door supply. Simon said: “We have become the specialist patio experts in our field which is something our customers appreciate. The quality of our doors, the ease of fitting and years of trouble-free use are second to none. Plus, our customers appreciate our level of service and the hands-on knowledge our specialist team provides.” As the go-to patio partner of choice for installers, builders and DIY enthusiasts throughout London and the South East, PatioMaster South East has built a strong reputation that has seen the business steadily expand and it now manufactures 100 sliding patios doors per week from its factory in New Romney, Kent. Simon said: “We work very closely with our customers to ensure we deliver on their expectations. The design of the PatioMaster door is the best in the industry and was ahead of its time at the start and remains so today.” While the PatioMaster product has stood the test of time, Simon is keen to highlight the trends in the industry during his tenure. He said: “When we first started it was all about white sliding patio doors but colour is now an increasingly important theme for customers. Grey is a particular favourite with colour now accounting for 30-40% of our business.”
Another notable trend is the requirement for wider aperture openings, reflected in a strong upturn in sales of PatioMaster’s Triple-track system. Simon comments: “The Triple-track system is a great alternative to a bi-folding door, offering wide openings with fewer panels to interrupt the view. Homeowners also benefit from an opening that’s up to 25% bigger than a conventional patio door and we have seen a steady upturn in demand for the product.” He continues: “PatioMaster doors give homeowners the aesthetics they want. They deliver for installers too because the system is straightforward to install thanks to features such as edge-located rollers that mean they are easy to adjust.” PatioMaster South East serves customers in London, Kent, Brighton and the surrounding areas. It offers rapid order turnaround, outstanding technical and product support and, of course, the bespoke, precision-made doors for which PatioMaster is renowned.
To mark the anniversary, Katrina Earl, Sales Director at Epwin Window Systems and Paul Hinds, Head of Sales at Safeware, presented PatioMaster South East with a commemorative plaque. Katrina commented: “We have worked closely with the PatioMaster South East team for two decades and have seen the business flourish. It’s a strong relationship that continues to thrive and we are delighted to celebrate this milestone anniversary with them. Many congratulations to the PatioMaster South East team.” Tel: 0845 340 3968 –www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk
From left to right - Paul Hinds, Epwin Window Systems - Simon Spiers, PatioMaster SE - Suzanne Spiers, PatioMaster SE - Katrina Earl, Epwin Window Systems
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QUICKSLIDE’S NEW TRAINING SESSIONS PROVE A HIT WITH INSTALLERS
It was Benjamin Franklin who famously said: “Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn.” And it's a sentiment that’s very much behind Quickslide’s new training sessions for installers.
Run by engineers who deliver them on site, the training sessions are designed to enable installers to sell and fit Quickslide’s range of sash and casement windows and bi‐folding and sliding doors with confidence.
Receiving this hands‐on and detailed product knowledge directly from the people behind the products gives installers an enhanced product insight that can be passed on to their customers and improve the fitting process. A more thorough explanation of the range also means installers have a greater understanding of the various Quickslide solutions which might suit them best, so they can provide an all‐round more professional and informed service to their customers. Plus, it gives installers the chance to ask Quickslide all those questions they might have – and get the answer to others they hadn’t even thought of. Senior Engineer Dave Laverick led a recent training session for West Yorkshire Windows, along with Quickslide’s Customer Care Manager Marie Bowman who said: “Everything we do at Quickslide is designed to provide value to our customers, to drive continuous improvement and organic growth. Our training sessions help with this by giving installers the know‐how and professionalism on‐site that will give homeowners a more positive experience and benefit their business as well as ours.
“Installers come away from our training sessions having a greater understanding of our products, including their various benefits and how they are installed. They can then pass this confidence on to their customers.
“Being better equipped for more efficient installation will also mean projects can be completed quicker and more effectively and talking through any dos and don’ts in turn reduces the need for return visits to a property. “With more product knowledge comes more confidence, and we hope installers who make use of our training sessions will also be better placed to offer suitable upgrades and spot and take advantage of opportunities to upsell.” Matt Grafton, Managing Director of West Yorkshire Windows said: “The training session recently provided for us by Dave Laverick was excellent. It is crucial that our personnel continue to improve their knowledge so that we can always offer the very best service to our customers. His professional insight and tuition of the system was invaluable for our team, giving them the knowledge to confidently address any issues. I would like to thank the Quickslide team for their time and this superb training session.” www.quickslide.co.uk
SEKURA COMMERCIAL LTD SIGNS A NEW THREE-YEAR EXCLUSIVE SUPPLY AGREEMENT WITH EPWIN WINDOW SYSTEMS
Specialist social housing and new build fabricator Sekura Commercial Ltd has signed an exclusive new three-year supply agreement with Epwin Window Systems.
Sekura Commercial has been partnering with the systems house since 2004 and fabricates the popular Optima PVC-U window and door system. The newly signed agreement extends the longstanding partnership. Charles Hill, Managing Director of Sekura Commercial, said: “The quality of the Optima system is exceptional and there is no doubt that the strength of our relationship with Epwin Window Systems adds value to our business at every level.” Katrina Earl, Head of Sales of Epwin Window Systems, said: “We are delighted to have agreed this exclusive supply agreement extension. The strength of our partnership is reflected in the length of time Sekura Commercial has been an Epwin Window Systems fabricator. We’re looking forward to supporting the team as they continue their impressive growth.” Sekura Commercial Ltd has gone from strength to strength over the years. It recently opened a new 50,000 sq ft manufacturing centre in Houghton Le Spring, Tyne & Wear, from where it manufactures around 1,000 frames per week. It is the North East’s leading specialist manufacturer, supplier and installer of PVC-U windows, doors and GRP composite doors for social housing and new build contracts. Its clients range from local authorities, ALMOs, property developers and registered social landlords to specialist contractors who value the product excellence, knowledge and experience the fabricator offers. The award-winning Optima from Epwin Window Systems is the most widely specified window and door system in the UK. It is an efficient to fabricate and easy-to-fit system designed and made in Britain for the British market. It is used on projects of all sizes and across all sectors, and its qualities help give Sekura Commercial a clear competitive advantage in the demanding social housing and new build sectors in which it operates. Over the years, Sekura Commercial have worked closely with the experienced Epwin Window Systems’ internal and external teams and the synergy between the two businesses has remained strong. It’s why the company has been partnering with the systems house since for nearly two decades and why it has signed the exclusive supply agreement to extend the relationship.” Tel: 0845 340 3968 www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk
FASCIAWISE BENEFIT FROM STOCKIST AND MANUFACTURER WORKING TOGETHER
Freefoam have launched another new video to highlight the strong connections and the practical support they provide to roofline installers around the UK.
Working with Nottingham based Freefoam Registered Installer company Fasciawise, the interview with owners Stuart Columbine and Ricky Gill, showcases a long-standing successful business specialising in all aspects of roofline replacement, including fascia, soffit and gutter installations. Commercial Director Colin St John explained “We are strongly committed to working and supporting our independent stockist and installer network. Its something we are passionate about! This latest film is a great example of how we work together with our stockists and installers on a daily basis to sustain and grow their businesses. The strength of these relationships is demonstrated by the fact Fasciawise have been using Freefoam Products since they started trading 17 years ago.” Fasciawise have been trading since 2005 and cover a large area from Doncaster to Leicester including Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire. Over that time they have established and grown their business, doubling the number of their installation teams. First set up to focus on roofline replacement, the business has gradually diversified to now include external cladding. Stuart explained “We’ve always used Freefoam, they are far better than other products. Homeowners like the fact that we are consistent in what we do, specializing in fascia and soffit, so we get a lot of work from referral. We also fit Freefoam cladding and have seen a big increase in Fortex cladding
Stuart Columbine, Fasciawise Ricky Gill, Fasciawise
as people wanting to use it on ‘man caves’ and outside bars, with the colour options being especially attractive, and greys being the top favourite.” Consistent and on-time supply of materials is essential for the success of any installation business. A committed, knowledgeable stockist is a vital part of this relationship, and a dependable, experienced manufacturer is a also an integral element. Fasciawise are seeing the advantages of a powerful supply chain that works together, from the reliability of Jayplas Building Supplies to the stability and consistency of Freefoam Building Products. Stuart commented “We have a very good working relationship with Jaime at Jayplas and have become good friends. We have always used Freefoam products and will continue to do so.”
ENHANCING THE ‘TIMBER ALTERNATIVE’ SALES EXPERIENCE – NEW FEATURES NOW LIVE ON FRAMEPOINT®
Tommy Trinder, pioneers of Framepoint Technology®, have launched a range of features to make it easier for installers present the features and benefits of ‘timber alternative’ windows & doors.
“Customer experience matters when you’re selling at the top end,” says founder and CEO of Tommy Trinder,” Chris Brunsdon. “Being able to touch and instantly show clients the visual difference between a premium timber alternative window, compared to their cheaper counterparts is compelling and impressive. And, of course, ultimately it helps justify the higher price tag.” The ability to touch and show pegstays, both working and dummy, is part of this latest release, and the range of traditionally styled ironmongery including teardrop, peardrop and shepherd’s crook handles has also been expanded. The collection of foils available to show off on Framepoint® is ever-increasing too; currently installers can set up their range from more than 230 finishes. “Customers love to play with combinations of foil finishes and ironmongery options and see the results in real time; it’s fun and engaging and in step with the way consumers like to buy.” In one touch installers can also switch between mechanical and welded joints, add deep timber look cills, and swap from standard to deep bottom rails on flush casement windows.
“Timber alternative customers are inherently concerned about getting the look and feel just right, which makes Framepoint® the perfect tool for the job. There are always plenty of oohhs and aahhs as homeowners see their new windows & doors come to life in full, photo-realistic detail. And when you overlay the client’s new windows onto an image of their home – it’s a real wow moment!”
Installers interested in discussing how Framepoint® can help sell timber alternative products can book a free demo at tommytrinder.com.
MODPLAN’S TRAINING ACADEMY OPENS
Leading trade fabricator Modplan has just opened an on-site Training Academy at its Newport headquarters. Heidi Sachs, Modplan’s Managing Director, said: “We’ve always taken training very seriously and our Training Academy is an investment in the future of our business and the wider industry. It gives us a dedicated space where we can provide training for the staff in our business and allows us to offer training opportunities to our customers too.”
The Training Academy gives Modplan a dedicated space to train personnel from across its business from NVQ level through to management training. Customer product training is always available too. Heidi commented: ”The Academy will help us build on our commitment to developing talent from within and provide a cohesive career path for growth and progression throughout the business. It’s an approach that means we have great staff retention – many key members of the Modplan team have been with us for decades. It will also help us continue to attract local employees keen to further their career with a company that cares about their development.” As well as supporting its own staff, the Training Academy is also available to Modplan’s customers, offering both officebased skills development and hands-on fabrication training. This includes a complete training programme on the popular Leka roofing system for both internal and external customers.
Heidi said: “We all know that the industry is facing a skills shortage. Our programme of Open Days has always helped our customers build skills in their own business. The Training Academy takes training and development to the next level. It also means we will be playing our part in helping to develop a new generation of talent that plugs the gaps and showcases the value our industry has to offer people wanting to build a long-term, sustainable career.” Modplan has always been a company focused on building strong partnerships by offering exceptional products and service. Its Training Academy shows that its commitment runs very deep. By investing in upskilling its own workforce, it will continue to deliver the best for its customers. It will also help address the issues facing the wider industry. Tel: 01495 246844 – www.modplan.co.uk
PREMIER ARCHES BOLSTERS CUSTOMER LOYALTY WITH NONCOMPETING PRODUCT OFFERING
Why buy arched frames from a competitor, when you could have a loyal partner in Premier Arches?
When it comes to manufacturing standard square window and door frames, most PVC fabricators have no hassle at all following tried and tested processes that have been their bread and butter for decades.
But when it comes to arched frames, you’re looking at a different ball game altogether. It’s a time-consuming and complex manufacturing technique that many fabricators simply aren’t equipped for, meaning many often choose to buy in their arched frames rather than manufacturing them themselves.
But there are only a handful of arched frame manufacturers out there, and because of increased consolidation throughout the market in recent years, some of these manufacturers are actually part of groups that also sell other products – like standard square frames. Unfortunately, this means that when looking to buy in arched frames, many fabricators end up sourcing these specialised products from companies that are actually competing with them. Of course ordinarily, no business owner would choose to purposefully line the pockets of one of their competitors, but for some fabricators, it’s their only way of accessing the specialised arched frames they need to keep up with customer demand. An ethical approach to business One company that can help overcome this problem is arched and angled frame manufacturer Premier Arches.
The St Helens-based company specialises solely in arched and angled frames, meaning their fabricator customers are sourcing their products from a truly independent partner. Managing Director Sean Greenall comments: “In recent years, we’ve seen a shift in the market, where many small, independently run businesses with one product or service focus have been purchased and consolidated into bigger businesses.
“Because of this shift, many of these businesses are now part of groups that offer multiple products or services, which adds another layer of complexity when trying to trade fairly and honestly with their customers.
“Unlike other arched frame manufacturers who belong to a group that also happens to make other products, at Premier Arches, we focus on just one type of product – bespoke angled and arched frames that our customers don’t want to make themselves – meaning we aren’t competing for our customers’ core business.
“We’re not part of a wider group offering other products that our customers also manufacture or sell themselves – we will never compete with our customers, we are proud to enjoy loyalty from them in return, and we believe this is the correct and most ethical approach to business.” High quality product offering Aside from the obvious benefit of buying arched and angled frames from an independent fabricator, Premier Arches customers also benefit from truly market leading products. The company manufactures and supplies arched, angled, gable, circular and entirely bespoke windows and doors in a range of seven stocked systems including Residence 9, plus another five non-stocked systems, offering a full service to fabricators, trade counters, installers and local builders.
The company has also seen more customers choosing to order fully fabricated frames, including sashes, accessories, glass and composite door slabs. Sean continues: “Specialising in one particular offering has really enabled us to refine and improve our products to a level that our competitors simply can’t match. “At Premier Arches, we operate on three core values – exceptional manufacturing quality, a ‘make life easier’ offering, and clear and honest customer service – and customer loyalty plays a huge part in that. “I would advise any fabricator looking to buy arched or angled frames to not source them from a competitor – not only will they be potentially stealing your trade customers, but they simply won’t be able to match the quality and service of an independent – and loyal – specialist like Premier Arches.” For more information, email info@premierarches.co.uk.
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PREMIER ARCHES: THE RELIABLE SUPPLIER YOU CAN TRUST
In today’s post-pandemic trading climate fraught with lingering supply chain issues and subsequent price increases, all fabricators are looking for reliable suppliers who won’t compromise on quality.
It’s one reason why when it comes to manufacturing arched frames in particular, PVC fabricators often opt to buy them in rather then become caught up in the complicated and time consuming processes it takes to make them. And one company that promises competitive pricing matched with exceptional quality is arched and angled frame manufacturer Premier Arches.
Based in St Helens, the company manufactures arched, angled, gable, circular and entirely bespoke windows and doors in a range of seven stocked systems including Residence 9, plus another five non-stocked systems, offering a full service to fabricators, trade counters, installers and local builders.
The company is of course amongst a host of arched frame manufacturers across the country – so what makes Premier Arches stand out from the competition?
EXCEPTIONAL MANUFACTURING QUALITY
Managing Director Sean Greenall comments: “Premier Arches was founded six years ago by myself and my two brothers, Thomas and Daniel, after all three of us found ourselves frustrated with the messiness of the arched frame sector.
“Tired of being let down, we decided to go it alone, and today, we operate on three core principles – exceptional manufacturing processes and quality control, clear and honest customer service, and a ‘make life easier’ offering. “Manufacturing arched frames requires particular skills and precise machinery, and in the past two years, in addition to relocating to a 10,000 square foot manufacturing facility, we’ve invested in new state-of-the-art machinery, thereby streamlining our processes and ensuring we produce the best quality products possible.”
OUTSTANDING CUSTOMER SERVICE
Even the best products need exceptional customer service to back them up, and at Premier Arches, this is paramount. “Our team has a passion for getting the product and service right for our customers, and we’re well aware that with the complicated process of manufacturing arched frames, things can go wrong. But we always strive to be open and honest with our customers – if something goes wrong, or is delayed, we will tell them,” Sean explains. It’s clear that customer service goes a long way, too, as shown in a recent online customer survey Premier Arches carried out, in which they scored top marks for finished manufactured product quality, customer service, product turnaround speed, value for money, and easiness to deal with.
MAKING LIFE EASIER
Because arched and angled frames are in themselves complicated and time consuming to manufacture, by focusing solely on these products, Premier Arches aims to make fabricators’ lives easier.
“When it comes to profile bending, most PVC fabricators simply don’t have the time, the tools, or the expertise to carry this out in-house, and so our goal with Premier Arches is to make that entire process simpler and pain-free, and supply the awkward products that others don’t want to make,” says Sean. “We’re also seeing more and more of our existing customers choosing to order fully fabricated frames from us, including sashes, accessories, glass and composite door slabs. This offering means our busy fabricator customers don’t need to mess around with glass templates or finishing arched frames in their own streamlined factories that are set up for speed.” Yet another important way Premier Arches helps to make life easier is with their new pricing and online ordering platform, allowing fabricators to get quotes within seconds, compared to what can often be a several day wait for quotes and order acknowledgements. “Pricing and ordering arched and angled frames has been a complex and time consuming job for years, but our custom built revolutionary online pricing and ordering platform has changed this,” says Sean. “Waiting days for arched window and door quotes can cost fabricators the job, but we’ve seen first-hand the impact this platform has had on streamlining our customers’ processes.”
AHEAD OF THE CURVE
Premier Arches is certainly ahead of the curve when it comes to providing the specific products fabricators need, when they need them, and it’s all thanks to their three core principles. Sean concludes: “Everything we do, change or introduce at Premier Arches links back to one of these principles, and practicing what we preach is what makes us such an attractive option for arched, angled, and difficult to manufacture frames.
“If you’re on the lookout for a reliable arched frame manufacturer you can trust, give us a call today – we’d love to hear from you.” Visit www.premierarches.co.uk
VEKA PLC NAMES KRONOS LTD ‘SUPPLIER OF THE YEAR’
KRONOS has secured the ‘top spot’ as VEKA plc’s 2021 Supplier of the Year.
The manufacturer of the most effective whitening agent in the world – titanium dioxide – was named as the overall winner from this year’s supplier list. VEKA plc uses only the highest quality raw materials and components for its industry leading PVC-U systems and the company is proud to celebrate the suppliers that go above and beyond in both product and service. VEKA’s Procurement & Mixing Plant Manager Nicola Woods said: “VEKA Group is the industry’s leading manufacturer of PVC-U profile systems and has a reputation for quality and reliability, which could not be maintained without the support of our suppliers.” The selection process to become a VEKA supplier is rigorous, their carefully chosen partners also undergo continuous, stringent monitoring to ensure standards are upheld. Nicola continued, “Key suppliers are provided with a monthly ‘vendor rating report’ which outlines how we have judged their performance. They are graded on quantitative data such as number of non-conformances and ‘on time in full’ deliveries, but also on qualitative data such as customer service, flexibility, and timely responses to queries.” This means that VEKA can closely monitor their supply chain and continue to provide an excellent customer experience. Suppliers must meet or exceed expectations each month in order to remain on VEKA’s approved supplier list. This data also enables the hard work of top suppliers to be recognised and celebrated. KRONOS achieved the maximum possible points in 2021, meaning that they couldn’t possibly have provided a better service.
Sven Hartmann, Key Account Manager at KRONOS said “We are honoured and feel grateful for this Award! Furthermore, we are pleased to know VEKA plc is on our side as a long term and loyal partner and will continue focusing on maintaining the well-known service and further grow the partnership. VEKA were, are and will remain an important part of our business and strategic partner in the future.”
EPWIN WINDOW SYSTEMS BECOMES A MEMBER OF THE GGF FEDERATION
Epwin Window Systems, the UK’s largest systems supplier, has announced its membership of the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF).
On joining the GGF, Martin Althorpe, Epwin Window Systems’ Technical Director, said: “We take our responsibilities towards the sector we work in very seriously and it is important that we align our brand with all major industry federations. As the industry leading authority, the GGF promotes best practice and we are delighted to have joined this influential community that’s committed to driving standards and professionalism across our sector.” The GGF is the main representative organisation for companies involved in all aspects of fenestration manufacture both in the UK and internationally. Its mission helps shape the highest technical and health and safety standards across the sector.
The GGF is recognised by government and plays a large part in influencing new standards and regulations, such as the Building Regulations, the rules that govern and control the way buildings are constructed in the UK. Martin said: “With the regulatory changes across our sector, it makes sense to become members of the GGF and have access to the latest information on Building Regulations and wider industry standards to support our customers and ensure we remain ahead of the curve. We will be aiming to fully participate in relevant industry and technical meetings and share and gain knowledge in addition to networking with other member companies.” As well as the GGF, Epwin Window Systems holds several other industry memberships and is proactive across many associations. These include a longstanding relationship with the British Plastics Federation Windows Group (BPFWG) since its formation in 1981. Martin Althorpe served as President of the British Plastics Federation (BPF) from 2019 to 2021.
The company became members of the Council for Aluminium in Building (CAB) in 2019 following the launch of the multi-award-winning Stellar aluminium system. It continues to build on this relationship with Paul Booth, Design Director [aluminium] at Epwin Windows Systems appointed Chair of the CAB Technical Committee in 2021. The systems house is also a member of ALFED Aluminium Federation, which represents businesses across the aluminium sector. It is also proactively involved in FENSA, the government-authorised scheme that monitors building regulation compliance for replacement windows and doors. Martin Althorpe is a Board Member of FENSA, representing the BPF.
As an industry-leading systems house, Epwin Windows Systems takes its responsibility to the sector very seriously. It’s membership of the GGF is just the latest example of this commitment.
Tel: 0845 340 3968 – www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk
SIKAPLAN ROOFPRO SINGLE PLY ROOF MEMBRANE PERFECT SOLUTION FOR INSTALLER
Roof Assured by Sika installer, Jones Flat Roofing installed the Sikaplan RoofPro single ply roofing membrane on the 22m2 roof of a single storey extension at a home in Somerset.
The homeowners contacted the installer via Facebook and agreed that the Sikaplan single ply membrane, with material guarantees and BBA certification, was the best product to protect the roof of their new extension. The lead grey, single ply membrane was mechanically installed onto the insulated warm roof and around the upstands of the two rooflights. Ben Jones, owner Jones Flat Roofing said: “I have worked with Sika for over 15 years which means I can offer homeowners the very best installation matched with a premium flat roof membrane from the global Sika brand. The Sikaplan RoofPro membrane was bought direct from my nearest stockist, Raven Roofing. This means I can offer customers good lead times, cost effective pricing and material guarantees. I will always choose the Sika membranes over other off the shelf options.” The Sika RoofPro range of roof waterproofing technologies have been developed to appeal to homeowners but also to give installers a range of premium, low maintenance, flat roofing membranes to offer customers the highest level of product installation. The Sikaplan Roof Pro single ply membrane provides an all-weather seal and is compatible with virtually all commonly used substrates in new build and refurbishment projects, Sikaplan RoofPro has a life expectancy of more than 35 years (BBA Certificate 09/4668), is ETA accredited and comes with 10/15 and 20 year material guarantees. Additional benefits include resistance to permanent UV and wind exposure and a high water vapour permeability. A great combination of a high performance product and professional installation. If you are interested in becoming a Roof Assured installer find out more at: http://www.roofassured.co.uk/installers/become_an_installer/
EDGETECH CELEBRATES
15 YEARS OF UK MANUFACTURING
Warm-edge spacer specialists Edgetech, a Quanex company, are marking the 15th anniversary of the opening of their first manufacturing facility in the UK.
In 2007, the company invested £2.5m to create the Coventry site that still serves as Edgetech’s main UK headquarters today – which at the time was Britain’s first ever dedicated warm-edge manufacturing facility. By 2011, Edgetech’s impressive growth had caught the eye of global building products giant Quanex, who acquired the firm, and together the two businesses have gone from strength to strength in the decade since. “Five years ago, marking our tenth anniversary of manufacturing in the UK, we invited long-standing customers and friends from right around the industry to an event to celebrate,” comments Edgetech Head of Marketing and CX Charlotte Hawkes. “Honestly, that feels just like yesterday – but in the 5 years since, we’ve come such a long way. We’ve continued to develop even more innovative and efficient spacer solutions, transformed the way we deal with our customers with new initiatives like e-commerce, and taken strides to make the business more community focused, and committed to sustainability, ethical conduct and supporting worthy causes. “Later this year, we’re hoping to do something to mark this latest key milestone – so keep an eye out for more information in the weeks ahead!”
A WINDOW ON THE FUTURE – CHANGES TO PART L BUILDING REGS
The long-awaited changes to the UK Building Regulations were finally published in December 2021 and will come into force on 15th June 2022. These changes focus on greater fabric performance and reduced energy demand, with the ultimate aim of cutting carbon emissions from new homes by around 30%.
One of the five new Approved Documents, Part L (‘Conservation of Fuel and Power’), will have a significant impact on glass and glazing products, particularly for new dwellings. This article will discuss the changes to Part L and how these will affect the UK glass industry, including their impact on glazing products for new dwellings.
WHAT HAS CHANGED?
The 2021 edition of Approved Document L, Volume 1, introduces new minimum efficiency standards (backstop values) for both new and replacement thermal elements, windows and doors. New build schemes will be assessed under the new SAP 10 (Standard Assessment Procedure) method. Most types of new window, including roof windows and glazed doors, must now achieve an improved U-value of 1.6 W/m2K compared to 2.0 W/m2K previously. However, the U-value of the glass will have to be much lower than this to enable a new dwelling to achieve its targets for primary energy, carbon emissions and fabric energy efficiency rates.
Liam Williamson, Marketing Segment Manager at Guardian Glass
still now be used to meet the new Part L regulations for existing dwellings. As for new dwellings, the U-value for glazing has been tightened to a notional target of 1.2 [W/m2K], compared to 1.4 in the previous edition. This means glass manufacturers need to provide products that have a Ug-value of 1.0 in order to meet the new regulations. This is because the complete window system including its frame, sealant and spacer bar must be considered when calculating the U-value. In order to achieve a notional UW-value of 1.2, housebuilders and architects will need to specify glass products with a Ug-value of 1.0 W/m2K.
HOW DOES THIS AFFECT THE UK GLASS INDUSTRY?
What’s particularly interesting here is the impact these changes will have on the type
of glass products housebuilders can use and which glass products glass processors and window makers will choose to stock.
In the previous Part L edition, a glass product with a 1.2 Ug-value could be used for windows in both new and existing dwellings. However, with the new Part L regulations, glass processors will now need to consider having either two type of Ug-value product in their offer – 1.2 and 1.0 W/m2K, or choosing only 1.0 Ug-value product that can cover both existing builds and new builds as well.
Notional U-valueTarget [W/m2K] Notional U-value Target [W/m2K] Backstop U-value/ maximum [W/m2K]
Backstop U-value/ maximum [W/m2K] SAP 2012 SAP 10 SAP 2012 SAP 10 Windows 1.4 1.2 2.0 1.6
Notional and backstop values in SAP 10
The changes to Part L concern both new and existing dwellings. For existing dwellings, nothing has really changed in terms of the glazing requirements. The previous Part L document and the new version both allow housebuilders to use the same glass to achieve building regulations for existing homes. For example, Guardian ClimaGuard A+ thermal insulating glass was applicable to the previous Part L regulations for ‘existing dwellings’ and can
HIGH LEVEL ENERGY PERFORMANCE WITH IMPROVED AESTHETICS
In order to achieve a Ug-value of 1.0 W/ m2K, Guardian Glass has taken a very different approach, believing that the glass should help bring as much natural daylight as possible into people’s homes, with clearer, less reflective view. Thanks to Guardian knowledge in coated glass innovation ClimaGuard Neutral 1.0 is more colourneutral with a lower reflection.
ClimaGuard Neutral 1.0 achieves 74% light transmission for a double IGU 4-16-4 panel (coating on surface #3, 90% argon fill), 14% light reflection and a solar factor of 52%.
WHAT ABOUT HEAT TREATMENT AND STOCKING?
Guardian ClimaGuard Neutral 1.0 will be supplied annealed as standard to the glass processor, who can then heat treat the glass for safety applications if needed. In both cases the product meets the 1.0 Ug-value requirement. This means glass processors don’t need to stock two different glass products (a heat treatable version and an annealed version) to meet the demand from window makers.
IS TRIPLE GLAZING THE FUTURE?
The changes to Part L aim to fill the void before the UK Government’s ‘Future Homes Standard’ comes into play in 2025. One of the aims of Part L over the last few years has been to try to push the building industry towards the use of triple glazing. In the UK, only 2-3% of builds utilise triple glazing. The UK climate doesn’t really require triple glazing everywhere as we are not subjected to extremes of hot and cold.
Currently the U-values for windows are 1.4 and 1.2 W/m2K. If the Building Regulations are moved down to 1.0 or below, double glazing would no longer be able to meet these tighter regulations. A move towards increased use of triple glazing is therefore inevitable. We know the industry and regulations are moving towards more energy efficient buildings and so triple glazing will have a key role to play here. We obviously need to wait for 2025 to see what happens to the regulations but rest assured that Guardian Glass will work with glass processors to develop the best possible economical solution to meet the applicable requirements. If you have any questions about the new Part L Building Regulations and how these affect glass and glazing products, please contact your local Guardian Glass expert.
GOVERNMENT AGREES TO CHANGES IN DOC L DOOR CALCULATIONS FOLLOWING GGF EXPERTISE
The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC), has agreed to changes proposed by the Glass & Glazing Federation (GGF) to Approved Document L of the new Building Regulations that come into force on 15th June.
Following representations by a number of members, the GGF’s Technical Team, in consultation with members of the Systems House and Aluminium Groups, highlighted an issue to DLUHC regarding the way that U Value calculations were to be made for ‘non-standard’ Doors, especially bi-folding and sliding glass doors. Under the new Approved Document L, the GGF highlighted that it would be impossible for some larger multi-pane doors to comply with the uplifted regulations, due to conflicts in the proposals to calculate U values.
After discussions took place with DLUHC, the government department agreed to amend the basis for calculating U Values for non-standard doors, in particular larger bi-folding and sliding patio types. These include a further door size of 2000 x 2180 for multi leaf doors, together with a tolerance of 25% on the sizes that can be used. The amendments bring the calculations more in line with BS EN 14351.
Speaking for the GGF, Kevin Jones, Technical Officer for the GGF Said: “It would have been impossible for some larger multipane doors to comply with the uplifted regulations if they had to calculate them at the smaller standard size, as the glass to frame ratio would have been far from what was actually installed, and thereby not accurately reflecting energy in use. In some cases it would have been impossible to calculate a figure. I am delighted that the DLUHC have been very responsive to our proposals and have moved to make the amendments to the calculation formular as quickly as it was possible to do so.” This is to date the only major change that has been made to any of the Approved Documents published in December 2021 and this change will have a significant positive impact for GGF Members and the wider industry. It once again exhibits the influence the GGF and its Members have in representing a significant proportion of the industry. Chris Beedel, Head of Government Advocacy & Stakeholder Relations said: “This change to Building Regulations is a testament to the excellent work undertaken by the GGF Technical Department and the strong relations we have built with key government personnel. It is another example of the influence that the GGF and its members have in representing a significant proportion of the industry.”
Kevin Jones, Technical Officer, GGF
EPWIN WINDOW SYSTEMS PUBLISHES GUIDE TO THE CHANGES TO PART F
Epwin Window Systems has just published a guide to the changes to Part F of Building Regulations, which come into effect on 15 June 2022.
Gerald Allen, Head of Marketing at Epwin Window Systems, commented: “15 June will mark the biggest update to Building Regulations in England for a number of years. Rest assured, we’re here to help our customers get to grips with the new regulations so they can be confident in their compliance.” Part F of Building Regulations sets the standards for the ventilation of new and existing buildings. It has been updated to ensure that sufficient levels of ventilation are still provided in light of changes to Part L, which covers conservation of fuel and power. As the UK’s largest manufacturer and supplier of award-winning PVC-U and aluminium window and door systems, Epwin Window Systems have a range of compliant trickle vents available via their Safeware hardware brand.
The new guide follows closely on from the guidance the systems company produced on the changes to Part L on the conservation of fuel and power. Both guides are available on to all its customers on the company’s Connect digital portal. To further support customers, Epwin Window Systems’ Connect digital portal has a forum where fabricators and installers can find answers to frequently asked questions. They can also submit their own questions to Epwin Window Systems’ technical experts. Gerald commented: “These are big changes and we know our customers will want to get everything right. They can check their understanding and ask for more detail from our in-house experts, who will be happy to help give clarity.” Epwin Window Systems retains its status at the forefront of the industry because it leads the way in award-winning products and intelligent support. It’s something that’s perfectly demonstrated in its proactive response to the upcoming changes to Building Regulations. Tel: 0845 340 3968 www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk
SUPER SPACER® SG BRINGS STUNNING MOL CAMPUS TO LIFE
Edgetech spacer technology has yet again played a vital part in completing a striking, inspiring and highly sustainable new building project.
The MOL Campus in Budapest is the work of worldrenowned façade expert Agnes Koltay and famed architects Foster and Partners. Oil and gas suppliers MOL are setting their sights on a net zero future, and preparing for the huge transition that will entail.
As part of that process, they envisioned a cutting-edge new headquarters designed to achieve BREEAM Excellent and LEED Platinum certification.
The resulting landmark is a 29-storey, 86,000 square-metre tower able to house 2,500 workers.
It’s been designed to maximise natural light, rain is collected to water plants and flush toilets, and heating and cooling is provided using renewable energy. Its elegantly sweeping glass façade seamlessly blends a fivestorey section housing restaurants and conference halls with the main tower.
Around 14,000 square metres of insulating glass, and over 500 cylindrically curved panes went into bringing the ambitious design to life. A mixture of 16mm and 18mm Super Spacer® SG warmedge spacers were used to provide outstanding stability, flexibility and performance. Agnes Koltay comments: “The decision to use Super Spacer® was driven by the curved insulating glass façade, which would have been almost impossible to realize with rigid spacers. “In addition, small tolerance deviations can occur at the edges of the curved glass during the manufacturing process. The structural foam compensates for this with its ability to deform and adapt to the space between the panes. Super Spacer® is an extensively tried and tested system. “The Opus” by Zaha Hadid and the spectacular Killa-designed “Museum of the Future” in Dubai are just two of the most prestigious free-form facades designed by Koltay Façades and that have benefitted from its exceptional performance. Edgetech Managing Director Chris Alderson comments: “Free-form, organic facades are one of the most important architectural trends of recent years. “Without world-class flexible components like the Super Spacer®, they would be extremely complex, slow and expensive to implement. “We’re delighted that Super Spacer® continues to allow some of the world’s best architects and designers to explore creativity without limits.” For more information, please call 02476 639931 or visit www.edgetechig.co.uk.
