23 minute read
Hardware
PREDICTED UPTURN CONFIRMED BY CARL F GROUPCO
Independent hardware distributor Carl F Groupco has reported a 45% increase in demand for trickle vents following the amendments to Part F of Building Regulations in June.
John Crittenden, Managing Director of the company, said: “We’re not surprised to be reporting these increased sales figures because they mean the requirements of the new Part F of Building Regulations are bedding in. The changes mean that trickle vents are by far the most cost-effective way to achieve compliance with the ventilation requirements, so we always predicted a sharp increase in demand.”
Carl F Groupco’s customers are benefiting from the company’s commitment to maintaining enhanced stock levels across its ranges. It holds stocks of trickle vents from some of the top brands including Glazpart, Greenwood, RW Simon and Yale.
John commented: “It’s important to stress that trickle vents are the most cost-effective way of meeting the new Part F requirement, which is mandatory. Whether it is a home extension, new build or replacement windows, the majority of installations will need to be fitted with trickle vents. By holding strong stock levels across multiple providers, we are making it as easy as possible for customers to comply with the regulations.” Carl F Groupco is one of the industry’s longestestablished names in hardware distribution. It supplies an extensive range of premium quality window and door hardware and has longstanding relationships with Europe’s most innovative manufacturers. It operates nationally, including to the Scottish Highlands and offshore islands, from distribution centres in Peterborough and Cumbernauld.
The company is renowned for its proactive approach that adds value to its customers’ businesses. It took the lead in raising awareness of the requirements of the new Part F legislation and continues to support its customers by holding strong stocks of Part F-compliant products. John concludes: “The industry has taken some time to adjust to the changes of Part F of the Building Regulations, but as our increase in trickle vent sales confirms, the changes are now bedding in well.”
Tel: 01733 393 330 www.carlfgroupco.co.uk www.smartsecure.co.uk www.carlfdirect.co.uk
STAINLESS STEEL GROWTH FROM TOTAL HARDWARE
Nationwide hardware supplier, Total Hardware has confirmed a 21.94% year-on-year growth for their Superior 25 stainless steel door hardware range. For Chris Pell, General Manager at Total Hardware, there are numerous reasons why fabricators and installers have turned towards stainless steel door hardware, not least of which is the products’ durability and protection against product corrosion.
Chris said: “When it comes to product durability and strong aesthetic appeal, our Superior 25 stainless steel door hardware range continues to deliver. We’ve seen sustained year-on-year growth from customers who have decided to switch to stainless steel hardware as standard or offer an upsell on their products, especially from customers working in the premium end of the domestic market. With the continued demand for high-end door products, fitting Superior 25 door hardware makes perfect sense as the hardware offers both long service life and functionality”. But it’s not just the domestic sector that is seeing the benefits of fitting stainless steel door hardware. Chris said: “For customers working in the commercial markets, stainless steel hardware should always be the default solution as it guarantees fewer call-backs or costly remedial visits, which is important to protect an installer’s bottom line and business reputation. And with a 25-year surface finish guarantee and 10-year mechanical guarantee as standard, installers can fit with absolute confidence.”
The Superior 25 stainless steel door hardware range includes letterplates, LBP lever/pad door handles, LBP lever/lever door handles, slimline pull escutcheon, pull bars, urn knockers and stainless-steel letters and numerals all delivering a suited range of door hardware for high-quality, coordinated aesthetics. Manufactured from 304 Grade stainless steel, Superior 25 door hardware is suitable for all door projects, including doors situated in demanding environments and projects with a high-end focus on enduring quality. The Superior 25 door hardware range offers sleek, elegant aesthetics and is available in six finishes, White, Black, Chrome, Gold, Brushed Stainless and Flint, which works across contemporary and traditional door designs. Total Hardware is a leading hardware supplier to the replacement window and door market. The company offers a comprehensive range of products from many industry-leading brands in addition to their own exclusive brands of premium hardware, Quantum, Duration, Guardian, Quad Lock and Superior 25. The Leeds-based business has a laserfocussed commitment to delivering a strong customer service with a quick turnaround on all quotations and reliable next-day nationwide deliveries.
Chris concluded: “As these latest sales figures show, we are well on track to becoming the go-to hardware supplier of choice. This is testament to our compelling hardware offer supported by a strong and robust product portfolio.” Tel: 0113 243 2255 www.totalhardwareltd.co.uk
RETURNING HARDWARE EXPERT TO SPEARHEAD COTSWOLD TECHNICAL SALES
A popular returning employee is set to drive excellence and innovation as Cotswold’s Technical Manager.
Hardware expert Steve Lewis previously served in the role for 5 years, during which time he played an integral role in new product development, tailoring existing products for new markets, and supporting the company’s sales and technical teams in India. Now, he’ll once again be taking the lead in providing technical support to Cotswold customers, delivering internal and external product training, and designing the bespoke solutions that will help Cotswold clients grow. “Steve doesn’t just have an incredible grasp of the technical side of our products - he also excels at the front-end,” comments Managing Director Tim Ferkin. “Tailoring the perfect product starts with getting to know the customer and their business, and that’s where Steve’s in his element.
“I’m delighted he’s returned to Cotswold as we embark on an exciting new phase in our history.” Steve Lewis comments: “It’s great to be coming back to Cotswold. We’ve got a fantastic team of people behind us, and I’m really looking forward to getting back out and supporting our incredible customers.”
In July 2022, Cotswold Architectural Products separated from Caldwell Hardware, following the decision by their owners to sell the Caldwell side of the business.
Cotswold is now the largest independent friction stay manufacturer in Europe, and the only business of its kind to totally own its supply chain.
CARL F GROUPCO STRENGTHENS SUPPLY WITH ENHANCED STOCKS LEVELS
Independent hardware supplier Carl F Groupco has confirmed it is continuing to hold enhanced stock levels to support its growing customer base. Managing Director John Crittenden said: “Despite market conditions, we are continuing to hold strong stock levels at £5 million to support the market and remain a reliable partner to our customers during these turbulent times. Our investment in stock inventory at our Peterborough and Cumbernauld distribution centres allows us to offer short lead times and a high level of customer service.”
Carl F Groupco increased its stock levels from £3.5 million to £5.5 million during the pandemic surge and recently made the decision to continue to hold elevated levels. John commented: “There is no doubt supply chain turbulence has settled down since the worst days of the pandemic. However, the world is now facing a whole new set of challenges and economic pressures so we felt it was only right to use our scale to hold higher stock levels and protect our customers.”
The decision to maintain higher levels of inventory reflects Carl F Groupco’s proactive approach to its customers. It provides an extensive range of premium quality window and door hardware and has long-standing relationships with Europe’s most innovative manufacturers.
The company also offers a value-added consultancy service, testing and working with its customers’ fabrication teams and manufacturer partners to scope new hardware solutions and ensure smooth transitions to new ranges. For ease of ordering and an improved customer experience, the company recently launched My CFG, an online digital platform. John said: “My CFG is an easy-to-navigate platform which works across desktop and mobile devices and features several key functions including online ordering, quotation requests and live account facilities. This brings huge benefits to our customers as it gives them 24/7 access to all business functions helping them to be more productive and efficient.” The company also supported – and continues to support – customers and the wider supply chain through the changes to Building Regulations earlier in the year. For these reasons and more, Carl F Groupco has a decades-long track record, which gives it a longevity few can match. In turbulent times, it makes sense to seek stability wherever you can. When it comes to hardware supply, that stability is available with Carl F Groupco. Tel: 01733 393 330 www.carlfgroupco.co.uk www.smartsecure.co.uk www.carlfdirect.co.uk
Leading hardware supplier Kenrick has recruited its fourth apprentice into the business in a bid to help address the industry’s skills shortage and encourage more people into a career in fenestration.
17-year old Violeta Marcu has joined the West Bromwich headquartered hardware supplier as part of her Level 3 qualification in Business Administration with Wolverhampton-based training provider Nova Training. And the senior management team has been so impressed with her that it plans to offer her a permanent role after she has completed her apprenticeship in February next year. In her varied role, Violeta is responsible for managing Kenrick orders, looking after customers and co-ordinating the transport of goods. She also works closely alongside the product development and health and safety teams within the business. Violeta says: “I felt so welcome as soon as I joined Kenrick – everybody here is valued and the environment and work ethic is terrific. I enjoy every day at Kenrick – there is a lot of variety in my role and I am constantly learning new skills and picking up useful product knowledge. The vast majority of our customers are delighted with our service, which is not only a credit to the team, but it allows me to broaden my experience beyond customer service into other departments at Kenrick.” Steve Jones, Kenrick’s managing director, added: “The skills shortage is an ongoing issue for the window industry, especially with obstacles like Covid-19, the war in Ukraine and the rising cost of living proving challenging. “At Kenrick, we’re proud to have a highly skilled and experienced team, but we want to inspire the next generation into an exciting industry – and one that can give them a great start to their careers. Violeta has already proved to be a really valuable addition to our team and we hope that she will have a long and fulfilling career at Kenrick.”
Kenrick is a forward-thinking company and is keen to hear from talented people who want to join the team. Find out more by emailing sales@kenricks.co.uk. Kenrick is a leading supplier of hardware solutions for PVCu, aluminium and timber 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
KENRICK APPOINTS FOURTH APPRENTICE
Mighton has launched a full suite of Avia smart home security products, building on the success of the company’s ground-breaking Avia smart door lock with a premium, fully integrated and retrofittable package of solutions that have all been designed to work seamlessly with Apple’s HomeKit security ecosystem – widely acknowledged to be the most secure platform available.
The Avia smart door lock, which was introduced to the market in 2019, raised the bar for smart security products. Combining the best of mechanical and smart technology, it was the first smart lock to meet the criteria for Sold Secure SS301 Silver approval, and the first to achieve the Government’s Code of Practice for consumer Internet of Things (IoT) security. The new family of Avia smart products includes the original smart lock plus an ‘intelligent’ casement window handle, sash fastener and a window and door sensor that allow users to tell, at a glance via their Apple devices, the status of their windows or doors.
The casement handle is available in a range of finishes and can replace existing handles in a matter of minutes, with no specialist tools required. The Avia window handle, sash fastener and window and door sensor are all battery operated, easy to install, and easy to set up using Bluetooth LE technology with an LED indicator that confirms pairing and operation. The Avia range also includes a smart socket that can be used in conjunction with Apple Home Automation to give complete control of household appliances; and a high tech, motion sensor PIR camera that can detect movement up to 10m away. Featuring a powerful LED light that illuminates when a person is detected, as well as an audible alert, it can operate for more than a year on battery power or indefinitely with an optional mini solar panel. Mighton’s Chairman, Mike Derham, commented: “Smart home security products continue to grow in popularity but in order to take full advantage of the demand, it’s vital that fabricators and installers can demonstrate solutions that are genuinely secure and not just a gimmick, in order to give homeowners ultimate peace of mind. “With Avia, they are able to do just that. The Avia smart lock benefits from the class leading security that Apple’s iOS operating system provides, backed up by robust, mechanical hardware.
“We’ve applied the same ethos to our new family of Avia smart security products, which have been subjected to rigorous security testing so that they are also compatible with Apple’s HomeKit,” he continued. “The result is a market leading security package that will work seamlessly with any Apple device, delivering a familiar, high end user experience.” Mighton’s new suite of Avia smart security products, which are available to buy now, are BSI Kitemarked, Secured by Design (SBD) certified and can be presented to homeowners as a complete package or sold individually. Also, unlike some competitor systems, Avia products do not require a subscription. For more information and product details, visit: www.aviasmart.com.
OPEN YOUR DOOR WITH THE TOUCH OF YOUR FINGER
UAP LAUNCHES NEW KEY WIND LOCK FOR PULL HANDLES
UAP, the specialist in locks and hardware for doors and windows, has launched a new key wind lock, designed specifically for doors with fixed handles such as pull handles.
Suitable for composite and timber doors, the Fullex Key Wind lock uses a key or thumb turn to engage and retract the bolts and latch. Once the door is closed, the latch can’t be operated without the key. Julian Roberts, Technical Services Director at UAP said: “The Fullex Key Wind Lock is ideal for use with pull handles on the doors of residential properties, enabling homeowners to benefit from security, reliability, and functionality. “If, for example, an intruder tried to open the door just after someone had entered the house with their shopping, they wouldn’t be able to get in as the latch would hold the door shut.
“A further benefit is the lock’s simplicity. Other key wind locks on the market require the key to be turned between 360 and 720 degrees. The Fullex Key Wind Lock enables the user to enter the door swiftly and easily. To operate the lock, it takes half a turn to withdraw the bolts, is then returned to original position, then turned again to retract the latch.
In addition, we have developed a matching escutcheon, providing the option of a full, cost-effective system, including a pull handle, Key Wind Lock, high security escutcheon and 1 Star cylinder. The design of the Fullex Key Wind Lock is based on the Fullex Crimebeater lock, which is engineered to provide long-term reliability and security. Widely specified, Fullex Crimebeater has been fitted to hundreds of thousands of doors in the UK.
www.uapcorporate.com/
GET A GRIP ON TILT/SLIDE PATIO DOORS
Hardware manufacturer, VBH, has recently introduced a new greenteQ handle set range for tilt/slide patio doors.
Tilt/Slide patio doors continue to be a popular option for patio doors. Their ability to offer a large opening when in the Slide mode or controlled ventilation in the Tilt position makes them a popular alternative to standard inline sliding patio doors. Many people prefer the fact that they offer locking points around the whole door sash. The new BGT10 handle sets are taken from VBH’s Continental greenteQ product range and, as such, are available in the finishes most popular in Europe. These are white, brown, F1 silver anodised, F4 bronze anodised, and F9 dark silver anodised.
There are Standard and Slim variants available. The Standard external lever stands off the door face by 51mm, while the Slim outer handle stands off by just 24mm, allowing it to pass the fixed mullion as the door slides open. Rather than supply the handles in a set, VBH supply BTG10 as separate inner and outer halves. This ordering format allows fabricators to choose a Slim or Standard outer, as well as opting for different internal and external colours for bi-colour doors, cutting down waste and reducing cost. Gary Gleeson, Marketing Manager at VBH, says, “the greenteQ brand is very strong within the patio door sector. Although tilt/ slide doors are not in the same sales volume bracket as bi-folds, lift/slides or inline sliders, there is still a healthy market for them, and we sell a lot of tilt/slide hardware. We’re very pleased to have been able to introduce one of our German handle ranges into our UK product portfolio to give fabricators here a greenteQ option. “VBH was recently named as Hardware Company of the Year again at the National Fenestration Awards. Perhaps it’s our constant quest to provide our customers with new product options that prompts them to nominate and vote for us when awards-time comes around each year.” VBH can be contacted on 01634 263263, by email at sales@vbhgb.com, or send them a Tweet @vbhgb.
THE DEVIL IS IN THE DETAIL FOR DOOR HARDWARE
Leading independent hardware distributors, Carl F Groupco has reported an increase in demand across its highquality door hardware ranges suitable for use on aluminium doors. But for fabricators looking to offer aluminium doors with style, aesthetics and highquality specifications, John Crittenden, Managing Director at Carl F Groupco says the devil is in the detail.
He said: ”Aluminium has become the go-to material for door products as they deliver high-end aesthetics and long-lasting functionality that the market demands. But high-end aluminium doors need quality hardware to complete the picture. If you think about an aluminium door, the hardware is the function that end users will engage with daily, so exceptional quality and user experience are essential. It’s why we’re increasingly finding that aluminium fabricators and system houses are seeking next-level hardware as part of high specification installations.” For such projects, FUHR, the renowned manufacturer of high-quality multipoint locking systems has become a popular choice.
The FUHR autosafe 833 Slam Shut Door Lock is a reliable multipoint locking device that has automatic locking functionality. It’s opened with a key on the outside and a handle on the inside. It protects a property from unauthorised access from the moment the door is closed as the latches turn into solid latch deadbolts upon closure. The next two popular door hardware solutions available from Carl F Groupco are part of the SmartSecure range, which offers electronic multipoint door locking systems and smart access control technology that ensure functionality, durability and security – and pave the way to modern, stress-free living. The SmartSecure FUHR autotronic 834 Automatic Door Lock is a practical hybrid solution that combines the convenience of an automatic lock and the advanced functionality of an electromechanical lock. The door locks automatically as it’s closed. It can be opened manually with a key or with any of FUHR’s access control systems. These include
SmartConnect, an easy access control system that allows users to open doors with a smart phone or tablet. There’s SmartTouch comfort, which uses an active transponder and keyless unlocking by simply touching a sensor on the door or pull handle. There are also FUHR Radio Access Control Options, which include a radio fingerprint scanner, a radio keypad and a radio transponder. The ultimate solution is the FUHR 881 multitronic door lock kit. With this system, the door is opened electronically using any FUHR keyless access control system. Of course, the products at this premium end of the market are just a small selection of what the company offers. As one of the only independently-owned hardware distributors, combined with long-standing relationships with Europe’s most innovative manufacturers, Carl F Groupco has the flexibility and competence to ensure their range always supports market trends. Tel: 01733 393 330 www.carlfgroupco.co.uk www.smartsecure.co.uk www.carlfdirect.co.uk
MIGHTON’S AVIA SECURE SMART CASEMENT HANDLE AWARDED SBD APPROVAL
Mighton has announced that its Avia Secure smart casement handle has achieved Secured by Design (SBD) approval, the official police preferred specification that’s designed to demonstrate a recognised standard for security products that can deter and reduce crime.
The SBD accreditation follows recent PAS24 testing and approval for the ‘intelligent’ Avia casement handle, which is designed to notify homeowners of the status of their windows by sending alerts to Apple devices or via the Apple HomeKit platform. The SBD approval underlines the enviable security credentials of the Avia Secure family of smart home products, a range that combines class leading smart technology with proven, traditional mechanical solutions for ultimate peace of mind. The Avia Secure range includes door, window and PIR sensors, a sash window fastener and smart socket which - like the casement handle - have also achieved the government recognised BSI Internet of Things (IoT) security standard. The comprehensive range includes the Avia smart door lock too, which has passed rigorous testing to be awarded both Sold Secure SS301 Silver approval and ETSI accreditation.
Mighton’s Chairman, Mike Derham, commented: “Smart products in the home have become part of our everyday lives – many of us will not think twice about using a mobile phone or tablet to adjust the heating, lighting or to operate home entertainment systems. “But when it comes to security, it’s a different story. Homeowners want the assurance that they are using the best technology available, which is why we have designed all our Avia devices to work seamlessly with Apple’s iOS operating system and HomeKit platform. “But they also want the peace of mind that the security products for their windows and doors are robust enough to withstand traditional attacks and can still function properly in a worst case scenario,” he added.
“We set the standard for smart and mechanical security with the introduction of our original Avia smart door lock and we’re now delivering that same level of confidence with the Avia Secure casement handle now that it has passed PAS24 testing and achieved SBD accreditation.”
All products in Mighton’s Avia Secure range are retrofittable. The casement handle, sash fastener and window & doors sensor have been designed for ease of installation, and are all battery operated. The Avia casement handle, which is available in a range of finishes, can be retrofitted in just a matter of minutes. Easily paired to Apple devices with Bluetooth LE technology, they allow users to check, remotely and at a glance, whether windows or doors are open or shut. The Avia secure range smart socket, which is compatible with Apple Home Automation, performs as a high-tech motion sensor. Battery powered and available with an optional mini solar panel, the motion sensor can detect potential intruders from up to 10m away, illuminating them with a powerful LED light or sounding an audible alert.
All products are available to buy now, separately or as a complete package, and unlike other smart home security systems on the market, do not require a subscription. For full detail on Mighton’s Avia Secure range, visit: www.aviasmart.com/ “We set the standard for smart and mechanical security with the introduction of our original Avia smart door lock and we’re now delivering that same level of confidence with the Avia Secure casement handle now that it has passed PAS24 testing and achieved SBD accreditation.”
GLAZING SUMMIT 2022
THOUGHTS FROM GARETH JONES, MANAGING DIRECTOR, SOLAR FABRICATIONS HOLDINGS LTD
“People like to get together in uncertain times, to exchange thoughts and gain confidence from each other, so the 2022 Glazing Summit came at exactly the right time. All credit to Andrew Scott and the Purplex team who organised a superb event with excellent speakers and panellists. We might not have got much in the way of lively debate, and audience interaction was on the tepid side but, in fairness, consensus seemed to be the overriding theme for the day.
Of the issues discussed, the challenge presented by the current labour shortage was probably of the greatest concern with the double whammy of the post-Brexit exodus and, the bigger factor, the legacy of the Covid pandemic, which changed our attitudes to life and work. We are all very aware of the potential impact on the industry caused either because those who left during Covid, have not returned or, as our ageing workforce retires, a skills vacuum remains. It was widely agreed that the industry does not do enough to showcase itself to school leavers, or those we could attract in from other sectors.
Rising prices was the other stress factor, mainly as a result of spiralling energy costs. Even though prices aren’t increasing as much as they were 10 or 12 months ago, they are still coming frequently enough. And, finally, the industry is still struggling with the new building standards as discussed by an exasperated panel, chaired by Chris Champion. This really highlights the value of companies joining trade associations such as the GGF, ACDM, BWF and CAB that offer the opportunity to feedback during the consultation phase of building regulations amendments. What were my two main ‘takes’ from the Summit? Cautious optimism, tinged with realism. Firstly, it seems that the majority of people attending hadn’t experienced too much of a slowdown, there wasn’t the doom and gloom you might have anticipated. Secondly, the economic outlook as explained by keynote William Hobbs from Barclays Bank, was also surprisingly upbeat and, if he’s correct, fairly encouraging. He reported that the recession is likely to be short lived and that interest rates won’t spiral…but, in saying that, he also caveated it with the threat of the global uncertainty of energy prices and social instability. Perhaps he was being overly optimistic, given the Bank of England’s subsequent statement in early November. Both the conference and the dinner provided good networking opportunities, with suppliers, fabricators and systems houses all represented. Kriss Akabusi gave a rousing performance for the after-dinner keynote and, as with all the speakers, it was good to have purpose behind it. It is our job to go away, dissect the message and apply it to our personal circumstances. So, who will Purplex deliver for us next year? I hear Liz Truss could be going cheap, if she struggles on her MP wage and PDC Allowance.”
